1st August

It would appear that no one has reminded the birds of Portland that its almost Autumn as migrant numbers remained low, however the trapping of another Sedge Warbler and Skylark were enough to keep the ringers entertained for a brief spell. The sea continued to be of interest with a constant supply of Gulls and Shearwaters (if not in large numbers). 

Portland Bill Sedge Warbler 2, Willow Warbler 8, Lesser Whitethroat 1, Sand Martin 4, Snipe 1, Swift 17, Chiffchaff 1. 

Portland Bill Seawatch Yellow-legged Gull 16, Balearic Shearwater 5, Manx Shearwater 13, Mediterranean Gull 150 +, Kittiwake 8, Black-headed Gull 2, Turnstone 1, Sandwich Tern 2.

Ferrybridge Sanderling 1, Redshank 1, Mediterranean Gull 80 (38 juveniles). 

Moths Silver Y 5, Diamond-back Moth 5, Rusty-dot Pearl 3, Dark Sword Grass 3. 

A little taster of the spectacle that was yesterdays Mediterranean Gull flock! © Debby Saunders:


This Sanderling was obviously finding plenty of tasty morsels among the muddy pools at Ferrybridge despite the deluge of avifauna the previous day © Pete Saunders: