26th February

Sharp showers at dawn marked the beginning of an increasingly unpleasant day, with a chilly easterly gathered strength throughout. Up-Channel Gannet passage was conspicuous for the first time this year, with small parties a constant feature off the Bill through the morning; 2 Red-throated Divers also passed by there, with 19 Black-headed Gulls and another 6 Red-throated Divers through off Chesil. At least 50 Meadow Pipits grounded on the Bill Common during the afternoon suggested there was passerine passage afoot that wasn't being picked up overhead. The only other reports were of 2 Short-eared Owls, 2 Firecrests and a Purple Sandpiper at the Bill and a Black Redstart at Blacknor.

The party of at least a dozen Bottle-nosed Dolphins were again off the Bill early in the morning.