Sunday 31st May

A strong westerly wind dominated throughout the day. Rain fell during the morning, later giving way to sunny conditions.

Twenty-nine Sandwich Tern flew south on the sea watch, whilst 23 Fulmar flew north.

A single Reed Warbler was at Thornwick Pools. Two Golden Plover in the North Stubbles were unseasonal. A Gadwall was on North Marsh, with a Tufted Duck over. Two Barnacle Geese flew south over North Landing, before alighting in fields to the south. A single Spotted Flycatcher was in Holmes Gut.

Gannet, by Lee Johnson
Gannet, by Lee Johnson

Gannet, by Lee Johnson

Monday June 1st, 2015

Before the forthcoming storm, the weather was reasonable earlier in the day, with clear skies and some cloud with winds south-west and force 5.

A short session sea-watching produced five Sandwich Tern and three Common Tern north, two Curlew and three ‘sinensis’ Cormorants.

Nothing outstanding, but a good mix of species with the highlights being a family of eight Shelduck and one Ringed Plover at Thornwick Pools. A Spotted Flycatcher was at Old Fall, a White Wagtail at the lighthouse and Wheatear at both Cattlemere and North Cliff Marsh. Other birds present included large numbers of Starling with recently fledged young.

Spotted Flycatcher by Bev Alport
Spotted Flycatcher by Bev Allport

 

Tuesday June 2nd, 2015

Today’s weather started with fairly clear skies, but changing to overcast by late morning, with winds initially SSW veering west and force 6.

A three hour morning sea-watch had one Red-throated Diver south, 24 Fulmar north, nine Manx Shearwater north, 22 Canada Goose south, seven Common Scoter north, with seven Sandwich Tern, three Common Tern and two Arctic Terns all north. A Pomarine Skua was also present off the headland.

Both Ocean View and the outer head attracted a White Wagtail each, with Little Ringed Plover, 26 Sand Martin and one Reed Warbler at Thornwick Pools.

Nearby, Bempton attracted a Great Skua off the cliffs.

Little Ringed Plover by Andy Hood
Little Ringed Plover by Andy Hood

 

Wednesday June 3rd, 2015

A day with some cloud, but becoming brighter and winds westerly force 4. No sea-watch, but a mix of local breeding birds and a few migrants.

At Thornwick Pools, there were two Little Ringed Plover and a Reed Warbler, with a Sparrowhawk over. Passerine migrants included a Garden Warbler at South Landing, with one Spotted Flycatcher, two Lesser Whitethroat and a Chiffchaff at North Landing.

Sparrowhawk by Andy Hood
Sparrowhawk by Andy Hood

 

4th June 2015

Light winds initially later switched to moderate south-south-easterlies, sunny and temperatures reaching 18 degrees C. During the seawatch 14 Manx Shearwaters, a Bonxie and 80 Sandwich Terns flew north. North Marsh hosted single Little Grebe and Gadwall, with a Ringed Plover at Thornwick Pools. A Marsh Harrier overflew the Outer Head, whilst a Common Buzzard appeared over the Dykes. Passerine interest was provided by three Jays, a Spotted Flycatcher at Old Fall, one Wheatear, a Yellow Wagtail and a migrant Reed Warbler.

Barn Owl, Thornwick, by Craig Thomas
Barn Owl, Thornwick, by Craig Thomas

5th June 2015

Light southerly winds featured at the start of the day, with a stronger south-westerly later, sunny intervals and temperatures reaching 19 degrees C. Seawatching produced four Manx Shearwaters flying north, 18 Canada Geese heading south, 115 Common Scoters doing the same and 45 Sandwich Terns heading north. However, the undoubted highlight was a pod of 20-25 Bottlenose Dolphins that went south past the headland.

Three Mute Swans overflew Thornwick, where there were four Tufted Ducks on the Fishing Lake, whilst four Ringed Plovers dropped in at Thornwick Pools. A Common Buzzard appeared over South Landing and 50 Swifts flew south over the Outer Head. Both juvenile Stonechat and Yellow Wagtail visited Thornwick, whilst a Corn Bunting appeared near Old Fall.

Bottlenose Dolphins, by Lee Johnson
Bottlenose Dolphins, by Lee Johnson

6th June 2015

A strong south-westerly wind, sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 15 degrees C. During the seawatch, two Manx Shearwaters flew north and 25 Canada Geese moved south, as did single Common Buzzard and Pomarine Skua. A Bonxie lingered offshore, while 20 Sandwich Terns moved north.

Pride of place went to five Bee-eaters that flew west over Old Fall at 0720hrs; they were later relocated on the western edge of Bridlington mid-morning before moving on. Five Grey Herons were present; one over the Fog Station, another at Thornwick Pool and a group of three over the same location. A Hobby appeared over Thornwick Pools on several occasions during the day, with Dunlin, Redshank and Yellow Wagtail also present. Another Yellow Wagtail was present on the Outer Head.

Broad-bodied Chaser, by Lee Johnson
Broad-bodied Chaser, by Lee Johnson

7th June 2015

A day that featured moderate west-north-westerly winds, sunny conditions and temperatures of 15 degrees C. The seawatch was quiet, with 11 Common Scoters flying north and 11 Sandwich Terns moving south.

A Hobby was present on the Outer Head and three Common Buzzards appeared over the Dykes, whilst Thornwick Pools attracted a Dunlin. Passerines included two Yellow Wagtails, a Wheatear, one Redwing, a Garden Warbler and single Reed and Sedge Warblers in migrant habitat.

Puffins, by Alan Walkington
Puffins, by Alan Walkington

8th June 2015

A moderate northerly wind, sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 13 degrees C. Seawatching improved, with 88 Manx Shearwaters heading north, a Pomarine Skua flying south, 12 Sandwich Terns south (and eight north), with two Common Terns and one Arctic Tern also north.

A Hobby frequented the north side of the Headland, with a Spotted Flycatcher and a pair of Yellow Wagtails in the Old Fall area. Best of all, a first-summer Common Rosefinch was singing in the Bay Brambles and later on the edge of the Gorse Field.

Common Rosefinch, Bay Brambles, by Andrew Allport
Common Rosefinch, Bay Brambles, by Andrew Allport

9th June 2015

Moderate north-north-easterly winds during the morning gradually decreased during the day, with temperatures only reaching 13 degrees C, despite sunny conditions throughout. Seawatching was again rewarded, with two Red-throated Divers flying north, 156 Manx Shearwaters and a Bonxie  moving in the same direction. Two immature Pomarine Skuas lingered offshore, with 12 Sandwich Terns heading south (and 11 north) and an Arctic Tern flying north.

Two Common Buzzards appeared over the Outer Head and a Black-tailed Godwit visited Thornwick Pool. Passerines included a Coal Tit near the Lighthouse, two Garden Warblers, two Yellow Wagtails, a male Stonechat and two Siskins. In addition, the first-summer male Common Rosefinch sang briefly in the Bay Brambles early afternoon.

Black-tailed Godwit, Thornwick Pool, by Craig Thomas
Black-tailed Godwit, Thornwick Pool, by Craig Thomas

10th June 2015

It was a day that featured light northerly and then easterly winds, sunny conditions and temperatures that reached 15 degrees C. A four hour seawatch from first light produced 9950 Gannets flying north (and 1800 south), three Mute Swans heading south, 46 Common Scoters moving north, with three Sandwich, two Common and one Arctic Tern also north. A Wigeon on the sea off South Landing was unseasonal, a Grey Heron visited North Marsh and a Common Buzzard drifted over the village.

Away from the sea there was a marked improvement in quality; a Bee-eater appeared over the Gorse Field mid-evening, whilst a male Red-backed Shrike frequented hedges immediately west of the Golf Course. The ever elusive Common Rosefinch also appeared briefly in the Bay Brambles early afternoon. A Chiffchaff that moved through the environs of Old Fall Steps may have been a late migrant.

Red-backed Shrike, Outer Head, by Craig Thomas
Red-backed Shrike, Outer Head, by Craig Thomas

11th June 2015

A day of light south-easterly winds, sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 17 degrees C. The seawatch was rewarded with a Great Crested Grebe flying north, 15 Common Scoter heading north, three Oystercatcher moving south and 40 Sandwich, one Common and two Arctic Terns flying north. A Mediterranean Gull also headed east past South Landing.

Four Stonechats and a Yellow Wagtail were in the North Landing area, but presumed breeding birds, as was another Yellow Wagtail near Old Fall. However, a White Wagtail at North Marsh and single Black Redstart and Fieldfare were most certainly not.

Fieldfare, Outer Head, by Craig Thomas
Fieldfare, Outer Head, by Craig Thomas

12th June 2015

The day featured moderate south-easterly winds and overcast conditions, with occasional mist. A Hobby appeared over Thornwick Pool which also attracted single Little Ringed Plover and Dunlin, whilst two Ringed Plovers were also present. Two Mistle Thrushes on the Outer Head were unusual.

Hobby, by John Beaumont
Hobby, by John Beaumont

13th June 2015

It was a generally overcast day, with rain during the morning when the temperature reached 12 degrees C. Seawatching from South Landing produced a Red-throated Diver flying south, two Manx Shearwaters south (and one north) and 76 Common Scoters moved north.

Thornwick Pool attracted a Grey Wagtail, four Dunlin and six Ringed Plover. Two Curlew flew south, whilst a male Siskin was on the Outer Head.

Grey Wagtail, Thornwick Pool, by Tony Simpson
Grey Wagtail, Thornwick Pool, by Tony Simpson

14th June 2015

A moderate northerly wind, drizzle during the morning and temperatures that peaked at 11 degrees C. Seawatching highlights included 152 Fulmars heading north, one Blue Fulmar and 18 Manx Shearwaters doing the same, a Tufted Duck and three Eiders flying south and ten Sandwich Terns moving north. Two Pomarine Skuas again lingered offshore, whilst a Bonxie was off Bempton Cliffs. Elsewhere, the Grey Wagtail frequented Thornwick Pools for its second day.

Buckton Pond attracted a pair of Garganey, with a Hobby nearby.

Yellow Wagtail, Thornwick Pool, by Les Day
Yellow Wagtail, Thornwick Pool, by Les Day

15th June 2015

A light south-easterly wind, sunny intervals and temperatures attained 14 degrees C by late morning. Seawatching was rewarded with seven Manx Shearwaters flying north, 36 Common Scoters and a Bonxie also north and four Sandwich Terns south (plus four north) along with a Common Tern. Better still, a group of five immature Pomarine Skuas remained off the Headland.

A Short-eared Owl appeared near Old Fall, but the undoubted highlight was a Greenish Warbler singing at Oceanview. A White Wagtail near the Lighthouse appeared to be collecting nesting material.

Greenish Warbler, by Andy Hood
Greenish Warbler, by Andy Hood

16th June 2015

The day featured a light north-westerly wind and sunny intervals after an overcast start. Seawatching produced three Manx Shearwaters, 12 Sandwich Terns and an Arctic Tern all moving north.

Thornwick Pools attracted its first ever Temminck’s Stint, which stayed all day; Tufted Duck and Redshank were also present. A male White Wagtail displayed to a female Pied near the Lighthouse and another White Wagtail visited Thornwick Pools. Nearby a pair of Stonechats fed a brood of juveniles.

Most spectacular of all, 11 Bee-eaters flew south over Bempton Cliffs RSPB at 1104hrs and continued the excellent run; these followed two singles and a party of five birds over the Headland over the last few weeks.

Temminck's Stint, Thornwick Pools, by Andy Hood
Temminck’s Stint, Thornwick Pools, by Andy Hood
Temminck's Stint, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
Temminck’s Stint, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson

17th June 2015

A moderate westerly wind and largely overcast conditions prevailed. During the seawatch, two Manx Shearwaters, 24 Common Scoters and three Sandwich Terns flew north. Three immature Pomarine Skuas remained offshore once again.

The White Wagtail was collecting food near the Lighthouse.

White Wagtail, Outer Head, by Andy Hood
White Wagtail, Outer Head, by Andy Hood

18th June 2015

It was a generally overcast day with a moderate/strong westerly wind. The only appreciable record during the morning’s seawatch consisted of seven Manx Shearwaters flying north and one moving south. A pair of Garganey was reported from Thornwick Pools; presumably the same pair that appeared at Buckton Pond several days earlier.

Stonechat, Thornwick, by Lee Johnson
Stonechat, Thornwick, by Lee Johnson

19th June 2015

A light northerly wind and overcast conditions dominated throughout. Seawatching produced 108 Fulmars and 20 Manx Shearwaters flying north, seven Common Scoter heading south, three Curlew flying north and an immature Pomarine Skua also north, together with three Sandwich Terns.

Three Grey Herons overflew the village during the morning, 13 Common Scoter were present offshore, a pair of Grey Partridge frequented the Thornwick area, where there was also one Corn Bunting. Another singing Corn Bunting was located near the Dykes, with a Spotted Flycatcher between South Landing and South Dykes. 

Puffin, Bempton Cliffs RSPB, by Tony Dixon
Puffin, Bempton Cliffs RSPB, by Tony Dixon
Shelduck, Thornwick Pool, by Tony Simpson
Shelduck, Thornwick Pool, by Tony Simpson

20th June 2015

A light southerly wind, and generally light rain arrived from late morning which then lasted on and off for most of the day. Seawatching produced 111 Fulmars and 93 Manx Shearwaters flying north, together with a Grey Heron, 120 Common Scoters, 15 Sandwich Terns, two Common and two Arctic Terns. In addition, seven immature Pomarine Skuas were present. A first-summer Mediterranean Gull appeared off the Fog Station where the first Razorbill chicks were off the ledges.

A Green Sandpiper at Thornwick Pool probably represented the first returning migrant, whilst the White Wagtail breeding near the Lighthouse remained in residence.

Ahead of the band of rain, 1300 Swifts moved south-east over Buckton in ten minutes.

Lesser Whitethroat, Thornwick, by John Beaumont
Lesser Whitethroat, Thornwick, by John Beaumont
1st summer Mediterranean Gull by Brett Richards
1st-summer Mediterranean Gull, by Brett Richards

21st June 2015

A day of sunny intervals, moderate/strong westerly winds and temperatures that reached 17 degrees C. During the seawatch, 167 Fulmars flew north, with four Manx Shearwaters, one Barnacle Goose and a Grey Heron doing the same. Common Scoters were on the move, with 389 recorded heading north, whilst 34 Sandwich Terns did the same. Four immature Pomarine Skuas were still in residence, together with one Bonxie.

A Red Kite appeared over the Outer Head during the morning and a Green Sandpiper visited Thornwick Pool. Two Spotted Flycatchers were late migrants, with three Siskin and a Crossbill more typical. About 80 Swift moved south/west through the day and the White Wagtail again frequented the Lighthouse car-park.

Green Sandpiper, Thornwick Pool by Alan Walkington
Green Sandpiper, Thornwick Pool by Alan Walkington

22nd June 2015

After a relatively bright but generally overcast start, the weather rapidly deteriorated, with showery rain throughout and strong northerly winds; temperatures reached 11 degrees C. During the morning’s seawatch four Manx Shearwaters went north, as did 58 Common Scoter, whilst 65 Sandwich Terns moved south. Four Pomarine Skuas lingered offshore, as did a single Bonxie.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Little Ringed Plover and single Crossbill and Siskin were at Old Fall. A Fieldfare in South Landing was unseasonal, but entirely in keeping with the weather!

Little Ringed Plover, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
Little Ringed Plover, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson

23rd June 2015

Strong north-north-west winds, overcast for much of the day and temperatures reached 11 degrees C; all of which combined to produce an excellent day’s seawatching, as birds headed north into the wind. Totals included a Red-throated Diver, 317 Fulmars, 128 Manx Shearwaters, 14 Teal, 1420 Common Scoters, two Bar-tailed Godwits, four Pomarine Skuas and five Bonxies. The highlight was a summer-plummaged Black Guillemot observed off South Landing during the afternoon.

Elsewhere, a Little Ringed Plover visited Thornwick Pools, a Hobby flew through Church Lane and three Siskins in a nearby garden.

Common Scoter and Kittiwakes, by Martin Garner
Common Scoter and Kittiwakes, by Martin Garner

 

24th June 2015

A very light variable wind, generally overcast although significantly warmer with temperatures reaching 19 degrees C. Seawatching was rewarded with a Red-throated Diver flying south, 177 Fulmars moving north, 22 Manx Shearwaters doing the same, 47 Sandwich Terns north and three Common Terns also moving north. Two Pomarine Skuas were again offshore, along with four moulting drake Eider.

Six Lapwing were new, with single Siskins frequenting both Oceanview and the Outer Head gardens.

Juvenile Black-headed Gull, Thornwick Pool, by Brett Richards
Juvenile Black-headed Gull, Thornwick Pool, by Brett Richards

 

25th June 2015

The day featured a light southerly wind, a bright start and then generally overcast later, although temperatures still reached 21 degrees C. During the seawatch, ten Manx Shearwaters headed north, 1217 Common Scoters also went north and three Curlews flew south. Three Bonxies and an immature Pomarine Skua were noted, along with 87 Sandwich Terns that flew north. Large numbers of Kittiwakes were feeding well offshore, with an estimated 15-20,000 present in several huge feeding flocks.

Thornwick Pools attracted two Grey Herons, a Little Ringed Plover and a Green Sandpiper, with several Black-tailed Skimmers making an appearance there on one of summer’s first warm days. A male Black Redstart on the Outer Head was unseasonal, with single Siskin and Stonechat in the same area. Two Coal Tits at Oceanview were unusual.

Grey Heron, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Grey Heron, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas

26th June 2015

A warm day, with temperatures reaching up to 19 degress C. In a light SW breeze, Swifts moved through in small numbers all day, probably numbering several hundred birds at least. A Hobby appeared over Old Fall and the White x Pied Wagtail pairing, near the lighthouse, appeared to be tending one or two fledged young. A juvenile Ringed Plover was on Thornwick Pool and a Little Grebe on Buckton Pond.

A Little Gull was the best on a seawatch, which was a little quieter than the last couple of days, and also included Common Scoter (218 North, 20 South), three Manx Shearwater, a Bonxie, three Curlew, 34 Sandwich and 2 Common Tern.

Manx Shearwater by Martin Garner
Manx Shearwaters, by Martin Garner
apparent juvenile White X Pied Wagtail hybrid by Andy Hood.
apparent juvenile White X Pied Wagtail hybrid, by Andy Hood.

27th June 2015

One of the hottest days of the year, with temperatures just tipping past 20 degrees C, with a light to moderate westerly breeze. Seawatching in the morning included single Pomarine and Great Skuas blogging, 179 Common Scoters mostly flying north and one Manx Shearwater.

Another day of notable Swift movements, with over 200 feeding early morning over the golf course and lighthouse area, with smaller number of hirundines, followed by a steady trickle of birds heading west through the day. The total movement of Swifts probably involved 1000 birds.

A Merlin was an unseasonal surprise, with a hunting 1st-summer Hobby more usual fare. The White x Pied Wagtail pair were still present with young. Two Crossbill overflew Buckton Pond and two Siskins were in the outer head gardens early morning.

First summer Hobby by Martin Garner
First-summer Hobby, by Martin Garner

Plenty of birds are fledging now:

Juvenile Sky Lark by Martin Garner
Juvenile Sky Lark by Martin Garner
Juvenile Swallow by Martin Garner
Juvenile Swallow by Martin Garner
Juvenile Meadow Pipit by Alan Walkington
Juvenile Meadow Pipit by Alan Walkington
Juvenile Pied Wagtail by Tony Simpson
Juvenile Pied Wagtail by Tony Simpson

28th June 2015

After an overcast start the day ended with sunshine and a moderate south-westerly breeze; temperatures peaked at 21 degrees C. During the seawatch 115 Common Scoters moved north, along with a Whimbrel and 29 Sandwich Terns. Two Bonxies and a Pomarine Skua were present, as was a single Manx Shearwater.

Thornwick Pool again attracted a Grey Heron, with three Tufted Ducks and an Oystercatcher flying over.

Bonxie, by Martin Garner
Bonxie, by Martin Garner

29th June 2015

A light south-westerly wind early on changed to a light south-easterly, with temperatures reaching 20 degrees C and relatively sunny conditions throughout the day. Seawatching was relatively quiet, with three Manx Shearwaters flying north, as did 18 Sandwich Terns and a single Common Tern.

Grey Herons featured once again, with a flock of four touring the Headland and two frequenting Thornwick Pools. A Great Spotted Woodpecker along the cliffs near the Fog Station was presumably a local wanderer, a Grey Wagtail overflew Oceanview, whilst two Siskins were recorded.

Sparrowhawk, by John Beaumont
Sparrowhawk, by John Beaumont

30th June 2015

A light southerly wind again changed into a moderate south-easterly as the temperature reached 21 degrees C in sunny conditions. During the seawatch, 27 Common Scoters flew north, eight Curlew went south, 12 Sandwich Terns flew north and single Common Terns headed north and south.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Little Ringed Plover and a Green Sandpiper. A Grasshopper Warbler was singing near Oceanview, where there were three Siskins and a Coal Tit.

Little Ringed Plover, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards
Little Ringed Plover, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards
Green Sandpiper, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Green Sandpiper, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas

1st July 2015

Another very warm, sunny day with temperatures reaching 21 degrees C in a moderate south-easterly wind. A Little Egret flew over Lighthouse Road before dropping onto North Marsh.  Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron, Green Sandpiper, the year’s first Wood Sandpiper and two Little Ringed Plovers, whilst single Greenshank, another Green Sandpiper, one Whimbrel and two Curlew flew south.  The breeding White Wagtail remained in residence near the Lighthouse and a Grey Wagtail overflew Thornwick Pools.

Buckton Pond hosted a Greenshank and two Green Sandpipers.

Wood Sandpiper, Thornwick Pools, by Brian Bird
Wood Sandpiper, Thornwick Pools, by Brian Bird
Sand Martin, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
Sand Martin, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson

2nd July 2015

The day featured a light west-south-southerly wind, sunny intervals and temperatures of 22 degrees C. During the seawatch, eight Manx Shearwaters flew south and six moved north; also moving south were three Teal, 199 Common Scoters, three Whimbrel, a Bonxie and a Little Gull. Another Bonxie and a Whimbrel lingered in the vicinity of South Landing and a Hobby also flew south.

Thornwick Pools attracted an Oystercatcher, Little Ringed Plover and a Grey Heron, whilst a Greenshank flew over. Elsewhere, a Siskin was present at South Landing.

The Greenshank also remained at Buckton Pond.

Oystercatcher and Little Ringed Plover, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards
Oystercatcher and Little Ringed Plover, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards

3rd July 2015

Winds remained light and variable during the day, with sunshine and temperatures that reached 22 degrees C. During the seawatch, a Red-throated Diver flew north, a Manx Shearwater did the same, 70 Common Scoters headed south and a Bonxie was offshore.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron and a pair of Little Ringed Plovers, whilst Buckton Pond hosted a Greenshank and another Grey Heron, with a Common Buzzard in the same area. A Siskin visited feeders in a garden on the Outer Head.

Greenshank, Buckton Pond, by Alan Walkington
Greenshank, Buckton Pond, by Alan Walkington
Siskin, Outer Head, by Martin Garner
Siskin, Outer Head, by Martin Garner

4th July 2015

The day started with misty conditions and rain before sunshine broke through early afternoon and the temperature reached 26 degrees C in light south-west winds. During the seawatch, a Red-throated Diver flew north, 16 Manx Shearwaters went south, a Gadwall did the same, whilst a small southerly movement of waders occurred involving three Knot, two Dunlin, three Curlew and three Redshank. An adult Mediterranean Gull also flew north, along with 14 Sandwich and five Common Terns and a Bonxie lingered offshore.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron, two Green Sandpipers, two Little Ringed Plovers and a White Wagtail. In addition, a Red-veined Darter hawked over the Pool.

Shelduck, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
Shelduck, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
Little Ringed Plovers, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards
Little Ringed Plovers, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards

5th July 2015

A day of light variable winds, sunny intervals followed by showers from late afternoon and temperatures that reached 18 degrees C. Seawatch highlights included  four Manx Shearwaters flying south, 38 Common Scoters moving north, 13 Knot and seven Redshank flying south, four Sandwich Terns south and two Arctic Terns moving north. A Bonxie again lingered offshore, whilst a Whimbrel flew north over the Outer Head.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron, one Dunlin and a Green Sandpiper; further evidence of waders on the move related to a flock of 13 Redshank that circled low over the Pool before heading off south. More unusually, a Turtle Dove flew south past the Lighthouse in the morning.

Barn Owl, Thornwick, by Tony Simpson
Barn Owl, Thornwick, by Tony Simpson

6th July 2015

Relatively light south-westerlies throughout the day and, after a sunny start, it was generally overcast. During the seawatch, three Manx Shearwaters flew north, a Whimbrel moved south, a Bonxie headed north, as did a single Common Tern.

Elsewhere, a Hobby flew over South Dykes and Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron and a Greenshank.

Greenshank, Thornwick Pools, by Martin Garner
Greenshank, Thornwick Pools, by Martin Garner

7th July 2015

A day of intermittent glorious sunshine and sudden downpours in a brisk SW breeze. The presence of migrant waders continued with single Greenshank, 4 Dunlin. 2 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Redshank and single Grey Heron on Thornwick.

Seawatching was limited with the best being a Great Crested Grebe and single Manx south in the morning plus two Manx in the evening with a Whimbrel also south in the evening.

Single Siskin on outer head and Hobby at Old Fall, plus a Hummingbird hawk-moth in outer head gardens.

Hummingbird hawk-moth, outer head gardens by Martin Garner
Hummingbird hawk-moth, outer head gardens by Martin Garner
Adult Greenshank by Tony Simpson
Adult Greenshank by Tony Simpson
Adult Dunlin by Andy Hood
Adult Dunlin by Andy Hood

8th July 2015

The day started with moderate westerly winds, which later switched to north-westerlies and eventually overcast conditions; temperatures peaked at 15 degrees C.  A Red-throated Diver flew north, along with 11 Manx Shearwaters, two Gadwall flew south and two headed north, Five Sandwich Terns also flew past and a Common Tern moved north, whilst one Bonxie stayed offshore.

A Little Egret visited Thornwick Pools, along with a Grey Heron and Little Ringed Plover. A Grasshopper Warbler was singing near Oceanview, whilst 19 Siskin were recorded, mainly heading west over the Outer Head.

Little Egret, Thornwick Pools, by Alan Walkington
Little Egret, Thornwick Pools, by Alan Walkington

9th July 2015

A moderate north-westerly wind later switched into a lighter south-easterly, while sunny conditions dominated throughout the day. Seabird passage included 300 Fulmar and 35 Manx Shearwaters flying north, 20 Common Scoter moving south and single Red-breasted Merganser and Whimbrel flying north. An adult Pomarine Skua flew south and ten Sandwich (including the first juvenile) and one Arctic Tern headed south. A Bonxie and the first returning Turnstone were also recorded.

Thornwick Pools hosted a Grey Heron and a juvenile Dunlin. Two Siskins were present along with a ‘glip’ Crossbill; initially on the Outer Head, it later flew west from Oceanview.

A Hummingbird Hawkmoth again visited gardens on the Outer Head.

Dunlin, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
Dunlin, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
juvenile Yellow Wagtail, Thornwick Pools, by Alan Walkington
juvenile Yellow Wagtail, Thornwick Pools, by Alan Walkington

 

10th July 2015

The wind changed from light south-south-west to slightly stronger south-easterlies later, whilst sunny intervals were prevalent from mid-morning. Northbound passage during the seawatch included 156 Fulmars, a Sooty Shearwater, 136 Manx Shearwaters, a Teal, 111 Common Scoters, two Bonxies, a Mediterranean Gull, 118 Sandwich Terns, 11 Common Terns and seven Arctic Terns. Five Whimbrel flew south,with two also moving north.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron, three Dunlin and a Grey Wagtail, whilst Buckton Pond hosted a Green Sandpiper.

Two Red-veined Darters were present at Thornwick, with five Hummingbird Hawkmoths in the area.

Red-veined Darter, Thornwick Pools, by Andrew Allport
Red-veined Darter, Thornwick Pools, by Andrew Allport
Kittiwake, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Kittiwake, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Grey Wagtail, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Grey Wagtail, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas

11th July 2015

Light westerly winds remained throughout, with sunny intervals and temperatures reached 23 degrees C. Seawatching highlights included 53 Manx Shearwaters flying north, ten Teal and eight Shelduck heading south, 204 Common Scoters moving north (and 87 south), six Whimbrel south, an Arctic Skua north, 77 Sandwich Terns, eight Common Terns and three Arctic Terns all flying north. A Bonxie remained offshore, whilst three juvenile Yellow-legged Gulls were noted between North Dykes and Sewerby. An adult Mediterranean Gull also appeared at the latter site.

The White Wagtail was again present near the Lighthouse and two Siskins were on the Outer Head, with another on the cliff top at Bempton.

Juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, Bempton, by John Beaumont
Juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, Bempton, by John Beaumont
Grey Heron, Thornwick Pools, by Alan Walkington
Grey Heron, Thornwick Pools, by Alan Walkington
Hummingbird Hawkmoth, by Andrew Allport
Hummingbird Hawkmoth, by Andrew Allport

12th July 2015

Moderate/strong westerly winds lasted throughout the day, with sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 20 degrees C. Seawatch highlights included eight Manx Shearwaters, a Grey Heron, 90 Common Scoter, three Arctic Skuas and a Bonxie, all flying south. A juvenile Yellow-legged Gull moved north, along with 11 Sandwich Terns and two Arctic Terns. Two Golden Plovers overflew the Headland.

Thornwick Pool attracted two Little Egrets and a juvenile Yellow Wagtail. Further passerine interest included a Grey Wagtail in the village, a Siskin at Oceanview and a juvenile Willow Warbler at Thornwick; the first such migrant. Two more Siskins were in the Dell at Buckton.

Swallow, Thornwick Pool, by Tony Simpson
Swallow, Thornwick Pool, by Tony Simpson
Varied Coronet, 3rd Flamborough record, by Martin Garner
Varied Coronet, 3rd Flamborough record, by Martin Garner

13th July 2015

Light southerly winds, overcast and misty with light rain falling through most of the day. A Blue Fulmar and a Bonxie lingered off the Headland, whilst passage included 12 Manx Shearwaters flying north, 45 Common Scoters also north (and 22 south), one Ringed Plover and 12 Redshank flying south. An immature Pomarine Skua moved south, an Arctic Skua went north, an adult Mediterranean Gull flew south, with 29 Sandwich Terns, four Common Terns and five Arctic Terns all heading north.

Two Siskins were near the Fog Station with another duo at Oceanview, where a Grasshopper Warbler was singing again.

Bonxie chasing Kittiwake, by Craig Thomas
Bonxie chasing Kittiwake, by Craig Thomas
Razorbill with chick, by Craig Thomas
Razorbill with chick, by Craig Thomas

14th July 2015

Light northerly winds and a generally overcast day. During the seawatch, a Great Crested Grebe flew north, together with 49 Manx Shearwaters and 103 Common Scoters. Southbound waders included 11 Oystercatchers, a Knot, one Dunlin, a Whimbrel and one Greenshank. Two Pomarine Skuas moved north, with two Arctic Skuas (also one south), three Bonxies, whilst a Little Gull moved south and eight Arctic Terns went north.

Elsewhere, the pair of adult Shelduck and three of the juveniles left Thornwick Pools; the former having chased virtually everything off the Pool since spring. Two White Wagtails were present near the Lighthouse, with eight Siskins also recorded.

Stonechat, Thornwick, by Alan Walkington
Stonechat, Thornwick, by Alan Walkington

15th July 2015

The day featured moderate north-westerly winds and sunny conditions. During the seawatch, a Red-throated Diver flew north, seven Shelduck went south, along with 71 Common Scoters (with 36 north), 13 Oystercatchers, two Whimbrel, one Arctic Skua and a Bonxie, whilst 21 Sandwich Terns flew north.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron and a Grey Wagtail. Elsewhere, a Black Redstart frequented the Outer Head, the Grasshopper Warbler was again singing near Oceanview and two Siskins were near the Fog Station.

Two Dunlin were on Buckton Pond.

Bonxie, by Martin Garner
Bonxie, by Martin Garner

16th July 2015

There were light north-westerly winds and sunny intervals during the day. Seawatching highlights included 184 Fulmars, 149 Manx Shearwaters, a Shoveler and 171 Common Scoters flying north. Southbound birds included five Knot, seven Sanderling, six Dunlin and two Turnstone. Five Whimbrel flew south (with two north) and a Bar-tailed Godwit also headed north. Two Arctic Skuas and a Bonxie moved north, whilst seven Little Gulls were recorded; five flying south and two north. In addition, 85 Sandwich Terns and four Arctic Terns moved north.

The Grey Heron, two Tufted Ducks and a Yellow Wagtail visited Thornwick Pools.  A Short-eared Owl was hunting near the Lighthouse early morning and the White Wagtail was present nearby.

A creamcrown Marsh Harrier frequented the cliff top at Bempton.

juvenile Yellow Wagtail, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson
juvenile Yellow Wagtail, Thornwick Pools, by Tony Simpson

17th July 2015

Initially overcast, with brief showers and a moderate south-easterly wind; later sunny intervals and a strong south-westerly wind. During the seawatch, eight Manx Shearwaters flew north (and eight south), nine Eiders also flew north, along with 214 Common Scoters. There was an appreciable increase in waders moving south, including ten Oystercatcher, 54 Knot, 26 Dunlin, 56 Whimbrel, 14 Redshank and two Turnstones. A couple each of Arctic Skua and Bonxie were recorded, together with a Little Gull that flew south and 116 Sandwich and two Common Terns that moved north.

Thornwick Pools hosted a Grey Heron, one Lapwing, six Dunlin and a Yellow Wagtail. Elsewhere, an adult Yellow-legged Gull was on the Golf Course.

A Hobby overflew Bempton RSPB, where 500 Swifts headed over and five Whimbrel flew south-west and a creamcown Marsh Harrier frequented the cliff top at Buckton.

House Martin, Thornwick Bay, by Lez Day
House Martin, Thornwick Bay, by Lez Day
Lapwing, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards
Lapwing, Thornwick Pools, by Brett Richards

18th July 2015

Strong south-westerly winds dominated until the evening, with sunny intervals throughout. Seawatching produced two Blue Fulmars, five Manx Shearwaters, a Grey Heron, three drake Scaup that flew south, two Eider north and eight Black-tailed Godwits, 97 Knot, nine Sanderling, 73 Dunlin and 82 Redshank all moving south. A juvenile Yellow-legged Gull flew north, as did 151 Sandwich Terns and, more unusually, a Short-eared Owl, whilst the Bonxie remained in residence.

Thornwick Pools attracted a Grey Heron, 14 Dunlin, a Redshank, one Common Sandpiper and three Lapwing. Elsewhere, four Siskins were scattered across the Outer Head and two Yellow Wagtails were near the Lighthouse.

A juvenile Merlin, creamcrown Marsh Harrier and two Whimbrel were recorded at Buckton.

Common Sandpiper, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Common Sandpiper, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Redshank, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas
Redshank, Thornwick Pools, by Craig Thomas

19th July 2015

Moderate/strong south-westerly winds were again prevalent, with rain during the morning and sunny intervals subsequently. During the seawatch, two Gadwall flew south, as did six Sanderling, 165 Dunlin and 22 Redshank. A total of 77 Sandwich Terns moved north and the Bonxie lingered off the Headland.

Sightings from Thornwick Pools included a Grey Heron, three Tufted Ducks, 25 Dunlin moved through, five Redshank and two Knot flew south, whilst two juvenile Yellow Wagtails were also present. A Crossbill flew west over Oceanview.

A Gatekeeper butterfly at South Dykes represented one of only a handful of Flamborough records.

Common Swift, by Martin Garner
Common Swift, by Martin Garner
Gatekeeper, South Dykes, by Andrew Allport
Gatekeeper, South Dykes, by Andrew Allport