3rd April

Sadly, migration didn't quite follow the script today and, whilst not a complete damp squib, fell well short of the heights that an overcast sky and pre-dawn shower had promised. An overdue Ring Ouzel at Barleycrates was the first for the year, while the Obs garden 'lockdown list' was increased by three: Puffin, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Swallow. Fewer Red-throated Divers were recorded with just 14 throughout the morning, however, a notable movement of Kittiwakes consisted of around 75 passing individuals. A House Martin in the top fields was the first within the Obs recording area but otherwise migrants were rather thin on the ground with just a smattering of Redwings, Wheatears, Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers, along with a lone passing Short-eared Owl.