The northerly wind dropped in strength and, after an overcast start to the day with very light rain, the sun broke through and temperatures ‘climbed’ to 9 degrees C. During the seawatch a Great Northern Diver flew north, as did the year’s first two Sandwich Terns. Two Red-necked Grebes were off South Landing, two Little Grebes were at North Marsh, whilst a pair of Tufted Ducks on the Outer Head represented the first for the year. A Merlin also hunted the north side of the Outer Headland.
Presumably the same Green Woodpecker that had been seen at Sewerby earlier in the week was relocated on the Outer Head, before it was observed flying back towards the village. There was an influx of passerines including the year’s first Wheatear and Ring Ouzel, with singles of both. A Firecrest was new in at Old Fall, whilst 22 Chiffchaffs were recorded along with 17 Goldcrests and three White Wagtails.
Single Short-eared Owls were seen at Bempton Cliffs RSPB and Buckton respectively.
