Dunlin at Rocket Pole Pond by Thomas Weston
Golden Plover on the Airfield by Thomas WestonBy Eleanor Harris
After the last few days of still, sunny and warm weather today really felt like a change. Today was a travel day but due to the Easterlies predicted day-trippers were cancelled meaning that it became another odd day. The layers came out for census with wind picking up from the East blowing strongly through Millcombe. Birds were around but sheltering in the trees and bushes with little in the Landing Bay. Some of the highlights from Millcombe were flocks of Goldfinches fighting with the persistent wind and a few Whitethroats and rather suspicious Blackbirds along the way. It is crazy to think that for the last week it has been relatively calm and still but today it all changed with a cold breeze sweeping the island.
Lighthouse View EH
Continuing census I bumped into the new Dexter Cows behind Stonycroft who looked rather grumpy and shy settling into their new home. They will be joining the other three to help with land management and grazing schemes. Walking along the airfield flocks of Linnets, Skylarks and Meadow Pipits battled the elements whilst I got slightly sideways blown which is always fun. Overall, it was a nice steady census with a range of different species.
Dexter Cows EH
Heading back to the Village I got ready for work ahead of a day in the Tavern.
As it was a travel day everyone was rather busy with the Tavern, Housekeeping, Ship and other tasks so our visitors became important eyes and ears for the day. Some of the highlights found were the first Common Terns of the year, Cuckoo in Millcombe, Swifts and a female Pied Flycatcher. It is great to hear your sighting and add then to the records so keep them coming!
Minke Whale and Whimbrel migrating toward The Castles by Thomas Weston
Lundy map - click to enlarge