BTO migration blog

Spring and autumn are exciting times for anyone who watches birds. Here on this blog we will make predictions about when to expect migrant arrivals and departures, so that you know when and where to see these well-travelled birds.



Tuesday 10 May 2011

Eastern birds arrived on cue


Although the predicted Sociable Plover didn't materialise, a superb 1st summer male Collared Flycatcher did; on the east coast at Holme, Norfolk, scuppering many Sunday evening dinners into the bargain, including mine.
Collared Flycatcher, Richard Thewlis

The conditions are still perfect for migration to continue and some of the highest totals so far this spring of hirundines - Swallows and Martins - were observed this weekend on the south and east coasts. Bee-eaters are still overshooting and were seen at six sites from Devon to the Outer Hebrides, along with at least ten Red-rumped Swallows along the east coast, and one on the Outer Hebrides. Britain's seventh Audouin's Gull turned up at Minsmere, Suffolk.

Audouin's Gull by Dawn Balmer

The first Red-backed Shrikes, classic May birds, were found at the weekend so it won't be long before the first Marsh Warblers are recorded. Tern passage has been impressive both at the coast and inland, where Black Terns are still a feature. With the weather staying pretty much the same for the next few days this weekend could well offer more of the same, and maybe that Sociable Plover will turn up. I'd settle for a Red-footed Falcon in the Brecks though.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.