With the wind dropping to almost nothing, overnight rain took a little longer to clear than anticipated and it wasn't until mid-morning that we got out among the steadily emerging flocks of Goldcrests. With 21 new individuals trapped, alongside flocks of upwards of 50 across the island, the whole island count was likely over 250. Unsurprisingly, given the abundance of Goldcrests, a Woodcock was attempting to hide within the Burdock in the Bill Quarry (because of course the Goldcrests ride on the back of Woodcocks) but was unceremoniously disturbed by a curious Crow. Within the gathering flocks of Goldcrests emerged 2 Firecrests, three Yellow-browed Warblers and an eastern Lesser Whitethroat. Today's calm allowed for the first good look this winter at Portland Harbour, resulting in the discovery of both a Red-necked and 5 Black-necked Grebes, as well as four Great Northern Divers.
8th November
The Crown Estate Field seems like an unlikely location for flocks of Goldcrests but they're loving the dregs of this year's maize crop © Joe Stockwell:
Today's Lesser Whitethroat was the seventh this autumn and appeared both small and very pale, although the minimal white ghosting on the tail suggests it could be another blythi © Joe Stockwell:
After a very lean mothing spell during the batteringly windy and then cold weather of the last three weeks or so last night saw the return of both suitable trapping conditions and a promising southerly wind - immigrant numbers leapt up, with the island's 11th Red-headed Chestnut the pick of the catch at the Obs. As usual, the night's full immigrant list is available here (or click on the link to the right) © Martin Cade: