Spring Migration

Spring migration update: the last few days have seen expected but no less eagerly anticipated migrants passing through the island including Sand Martins, Swallow, Wheatears and the first Puffin of 2024.


 

Chiffchaff

Chiffchaff

Nothing fancy but delighted to be able to report the first light flurries of Chiffchaffs this morning and yesterday which included 52 ringed along with half a dozen Firecrests.

Photo (JH) Chiffchaff this morning.


 

Black-throated Diver

Black-throated Diver

Recently returned to Alderney for the new season, assistant warden Matt Scragg found this fabulous Black-throated Diver at Braye Harbour today.
Also this week small numbers of ‘new-in’ Chiffchaffs and a locally scarce spring record of 2 Reed Buntings.
Photos (JH) today’s Diver.


Bird Nesting boxes

Bird Nesting boxes

Now is the time to put up bird nest boxes.

The ABO have been making and selling bird boxes locally since last autumn. Made from sustainably sourced wood, the design offers birds sufficient ventilation and adequate drainage, they are easy to mount, open and clean, the tit boxes are fitted with predator guards. We have different designs made to attract particular species, all available from The Little Garage shop. At just £15 each you can’t go wrong. Help us to help our birds.


 

Boat trip

ABO island boat trip – Sunday 30th June 2pm.
Some of our on-island members have asked if we could provide a seabird boat trip this summer and we are delighted to confirm that this will be on Sunday 30th June. This is not just a trip out to Burhou or to see the Gannets and back; we will take in Burhou and the Puffins on our way to the more rarely visited Gannet colony on Ortac, then complete a lap of the island stopping at Les Etacs and Coque Lihou along the way and wherever there are birds and marine life. We anticipate this trip will last about two and half hours and with Alderneys leading ornithologists, our warden and assistant warden on board telling us about, finding and identifying the birds there should be plenty to see and enjoy.
To book contact Hilary at abo.news@outlook.com
Tickets are £40pp for ABO members, £50pp for non-members.