With the mild weather and the wind from the south there seemed little change that anything unusual from the east would turn up. But nature has a way of surprising everyone. On the afternoon of the 28th Oct a text alerted everyone that a Pallas’s Leaf Warbler had been located at Oak Copse. Although quite elusive in the high branches of the trees those who made the walk down the beach were rewarded with some excellent view of this pretty little warbler from the east.
Pallas's Warbler
Towards the end of the week a more winter feel to the sights when a Snow Bunting was located on Pagham Spit. It stuck around a couple of days being very elusive. Out on Breach Pool a Water Pipit and 2 Bearded Tits were seen in the Reed Margins, complimenting the report of 12 reported from Yeoman’s earlier in the week. While the Short-Eared Owl continued to make it regular tour of the Fields.
Snow Bunting
The Juvenile Spoonbill and Ruddy Shelduck continue to frequent the Reserve through the period although both continue to be rather elusive.
The mild week and the winds from the south has resulted in the migration of a number of butterfly species Clouded Yellow, Red Admiral and Painted Lady have all been see in good numbers around the Reserve. Red Admirals were even trapped in the moth trap along with another rarity a Flame Brocade.
The Warden, RSPB Crook of Baldoon