The following only summarises the records from our resident birders’ health walks and garden sightings; consequently, it provides a mere snapshot of the true scale of spring migration.
A south-westerly wind strengthened during a day of sunny intervals and temperatures peaking at 13 degrees C by mid-afternoon. Overnight, six flocks of Common Scoters overflew the village from 2240hrs on 1st onwards; Wigeon, Teal, Coot, Snipe and Redwing were also recorded during the same ‘nocmig’ session.
During this morning’s seawatch, a Goosander flew north and 73 Puffins headed south; the Red-breasted Merganser also lingered off Hartendale. Thornwick Pools attracted five Shelduck, ten Teal, two Coot and two Little Ringed Plovers. Two Marsh Harriers frequented the outer head, with additional sightings including a Hooded Crow, one Goldcrest, four Chiffchaffs, a Black Redstart, five White Wagtails, 35 Yellowhammers and three Corn Buntings.
Two Grey Partridges and six displaying Lapwing were seen along Cliff Lane, Bempton.
