October 10th

An increase in winter thrushes this morning with an estimated 120 Redwings (over) this morning and Song Thushes moving in smaller numbers throughout the day. 3 Mistle Thrushes were also recorded. Increases in Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs, Stonechats and a significant movement for us of Cetti’s Warblers were reflected in the ringing totals. On Longis pond 4 Teal, 10 Snipe, 2 Jack Snipe and 1 male Shoveler were seen. On Longis Beach 1 Grey Plover and 2 Bar-tailed Godwits. There were 2 Sparrowhawks together over Essex Hill tussling with a young Raven.

The last of the Channel Island ringers left us this afternoon but the remaining boots on the ground this morning allowed us to open all three sites. The presence of those attending our ringing AGM and visiting UK ringers have seen us ring 758 new birds in the last 4 days. Today we processed 313 birds, a new record day total for the Obs. A total of 280 birds of 20 species were newly ringed, including: 70 Swallows, 73 Blackcaps, 44 Chiffchaffs, 25 Robins, 11 Song Thrushes, 9 Redwings, 5 Blackbirds, 6 Cetti’s Warblers, 5 Goldcrests, 1 Firecrest, 2 Wheatears, 5 Stonechats, 6 Starlings, 5 Goldfinches, 1 Linnet, 1 Greenfinch and 1 Sand Martin.

An enormous thanks from all at the ABO to all the Channel Islands ringers for their hard work and enthusiasm.