The first day of Migweek 2023 was sunny throughout, with a gusty west-north-westerly wind and temperatures reaching 12 degrees C. The cooler conditions were reflected in the species mix recorded on the seawatch, with five Whooper Swans, a Great Northern Diver, 11 Bonxies, eight Arctic Skuas and 12 Pomarine Skuas all moving south; the latter tracking past the outer head in the afternoon. Another Great Northern Diver and a Sooty Shearwater also flew north.
An additional 64 Whooper Swans went south during the afternoon. A Merlin flew past the Fog Station and a creamcrown Marsh Harrier frequented the outer head; two Short-eared Owls were also present, with singles at North & South Landing. A single Yellow-browed Warbler remained, lingering at the northern end of Old Fall hedge, while additional migrants included a Ring Ouzel and a Common Redstart.
Ringing sessions centred at South Landing proved rewarding with over 60 birds rung, including eight Goldcrests.
Sightings from RSPB Bempton Cliffs included 270 Pink-footed Geese and 13 Whooper Swans south and a Merlin.
