Category: Sightings

Another day of moderate/strong north-easterly winds, overcast skies and occasional showers. Seawatching produced four Scaup south, two Velvet Scoter, eight Sooty Shearwaters and a juvenile Long-tailed Skua flying north.

The day’s highlight was undoubtedly the evening discovery of a Paddyfield Warbler at the southern end of the ‘motorway hedge’; which runs along the eastern edge of the Gorse Field, south of the Lighthouse. It moved between the edge of the lighthouse grassland and the hawthorn bushes where the hedge ‘dog legs’; best viewed from the grassland field.

Two Great Grey Shrikes were present on the outer head, including one remaining in the vicinity of Old Fall, whilst three Shore Larks were discovered late on with Skylarks south of the Lighthouse. Two Pallas’s Warblers were new in, with one in South Landing and the other at Whelkie Wynds; the latter at one point chased by a Great Grey Shrike! Three Yellow-browed Warblers remained, whilst a Firecrest was located at Thornwick.

Additional migrants included four Woodcock, a Jack Snipe, three Ring Ouzel, 1020 Redwing, 30 Fieldfare, 175 Robins, 470 Goldcrests, a Garden Warbler, 20 Brambling and six Mealy Redpolls.

West of the Dykes, single Pallas’s Warbler, Red-breasted Flycatcher and Mealy Redpoll showed at Bempton Cliffs RSPB and a Ring Ouzel was at Buckton.

And so it continues – moderate/strong easterly winds and very heavy showers produced another superb day’s birding. Seawatching was quiet, with 16 Eider and a Red-breasted Merganser north.

New arrivals were headlined by a Red-flanked Bluetail discovered late afternoon at South Dykes; along the track which runs parallel with the cliff top and leads from the western side of South Dykes towards the Golf Clubhouse. The Paddyfield Warbler continued to show sporadically at the southern end of the ‘motorway’ south of the lighthouse. Two Dusky Warblers made landfall: the first at Old Fall and the other at Bempton Cliffs RSPB. The Olive-backed Pipit was seen again in the Lighthouse grasslands, whilst the two Pallas’s Warbler remained – at South Landing and Bempton Cliffs RSPB. A Richard’s Pipit was located along the cliff top at Old Fall, five Shore Larks were on the outer head, whilst two Great Grey Shrikes, six Yellow-browed Warblers and two Firecrests were also recorded, and one Little Bunting was still in residence.

Additional migrants included a Jack Snipe, eight Woodcock, a Short-eared Owl in off the sea, 490 Fieldfare, 3370 Redwing, six Ring Ouzel, 1480 Goldcrests, 32 Chiffchaffs, 32 Brambling and one Lapland Bunting.

West of the Dykes, Bempton Cliffs attracted a Lesser Whitethroat, ten Chiffchaffs and six Mealy Redpolls, whilst Buckton hosted three Jack Snipe, a Yellow-browed Warbler and a Ring Ouzel.

Another day of moderate south-easterlies and overcast skies. Seawatching highlights included the following southbound: 27 Pink-footed Geese, 23 White-fronted Geese, two dark-bellied Bent Geese, one Brent Goose, 65 Wigeon, six Scaup, four Eider, one Sooty Shearwater, two Balearic Shearwaters and one Long-tailed Skua. A Pomarine Skua headed north and a Short-eared Owl came in off.

Geese were clearly on the move, with another 30 White-fronted Geese moving south over the outer head and two White-fronted Geese and four Bean Geese touring the headland. A juvenile Yellow-legged Gull fed in Selwick’s Bay in the evening.

Pride of place was the discovery of a 1st-winter male Pied Wheatear at Cattlemere Hole late morning. After showing well for 30 minutes it flew west and wasn’t relocated. Two Pallas’s Warblers were present, with one remaining in South Landing and the other located in Old Fall. Great Grey Shrike, Firecrest and Hawfinch were also seen at Old Fall, whilst a second Great Grey Shrike was present at South Landing. A Richard’s Pipit and six Shore Larks frequented the Cattlemere area, whilst two Yellow-browed Warblers were at South Landing. A 12-strong flock of Redpolls at Thornwick CP contained both Mealy and Lessers.

West of the Dykes, Buckton recorded 65 White-fronted Geese south, two Woodcock, a Jack Snipe, two Water Rails, single Firecrest, Black Redstart and Ring Ouzel, with 20 Brambling also present. Two Shore Larks also flew over. The Dusky Warbler remained at Bempton Cliffs RSPB, where eight White-fronted Geese flew south, together with 76 Pink-feet; a Firecrest, one Lesser Whitethroat and six Mealy Redpolls were also present on the reserve. Speeton attracted a Ring Ouzel.

A day of contrasts, with a heavy overcast and periodic rain in light/moderate south-easterlies during the morning, with light southerlies and sunshine in the afternoon. Seawatching produced 12 Barnacle Geese, four Pintail and a Sooty Shearwater all flying north.

A multiple arrival of Radde’s and Dusky Warblers represented the main feature: three Radde’s Warblers were located (Old Fall/Old Fall Hedge/’Motorway’) and four Dusky Warblers (including birds along the ‘Motorway’/North Dykes/Bempton Cliffs RSPB). Three Pallas’s Warblers were spread between Old Fall, North Dykes and Bempton Cliffs RSPB, a Siberian Chiffchaff frequented the Golf Course willows, where there was also a Firecrest. A total of five Yellow-browed Warblers was logged, whilst another Firecrest was at Old Fall. The Olive-backed Pipit again showed sporadically at the southern end of the Lighthouse grasslands. Two Richard’s Pipits were present: North Dykes and Cattlemere. A Great Grey Shrike spent the day around the hedgerows immediately around Old Fall.

In a local context, the day’s rarest sighting related to a Great White Egret that flew south mid-afternoon; only the second local record. Additional migrants included 42 Pink-footed Geese south, a Taiga Bean Goose near North Marsh, five Grey Herons, ten Snipe, five Woodcock, a Shore Lark over North Landing, a Lesser Whitethroat, 4200 Redwing, 500 Fieldfare, 190 Blackbird, four Ring Ouzels, a Redstart, 370 Robins, a Pied Flycatcher and two Mealy Redpoll.

West of the Dykes sightings included a Shore Lark at Bempton Cliffs RSPB, 50 Goldcrests, 15 Chiffchaffs, a Lesser Whitethroat, a Redstart, one Ring Ouzel, three Mealy Redpolls and 14 Brambling. Highlights of a ringing session at Buckton included Water Rail and Mealy Redpoll.

The day featured moderate southerly winds, with a belt of heavy rain during from mid-morning, with sunny intervals later. Seawatching highlights included six dark-bellied Brent Geese, four Gadwall, 78 Wigeon, six Pintail, 88 Teal, seven Tufted Duck, four Eider, three Velvet Scoter, 63 Knot and nine Bonxies all flying south.

Twelve Tundra Bean Geese were present, with seven on Thornwick Pools and five at North Marsh. A Great White Egret flew south over Greenacres mid-afternoon, whilst Water Rail, Jack Snipe and five Woodcock were also logged. A Rough-legged Buzzard overflew South Dykes early morning. Passerine interest included a Pallas’s Warbler new-in at North Landing, a long-staying Dusky Warbler, a Yellow-browed Warbler at South Landing and a Siberian Chiffchaff at Thornwick.  Two Richard’s Pipits were located along the cliff top north of Thornwick, whilst a Lapland Bunting joined a 100-strong flock of Skylarks at South Landing. Additional migrants included two Ring Ouzels, a Black Redstart and a Common Redstart.

West of the Dykes, Bempton Cliffs RSPB hosted single Dusky Warbler, Pallas’s Warbler, Yellow-browed Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat, together with a Shore Lark. Buckton attracted a Woodcock and a Ring Ouzel.

Moderate south-westerly winds lasted throughout a day of largely sunny skies. Wildfowl included 12 Pink-footed Geese, a Barnacle Goose, a dark-bellied Brent Goose and 32 Teal. Single Little Grebe, Jack Snipe and a Yellow-legged Gull were also recorded. A Long-eared Owl was trapped at North Landing.

A Pallas’s Warbler was trapped at North Landing, whilst a Yellow-browed Warbler remained at South Landing and a lone Firecrest was also located. Two Richard’s Pipits remained along the cliff top near Thornwick and a Little Bunting was still in residence. Additional sightings included 380 Skylarks, two Ring Ouzels, 160 Redwing, seven Wheatear, 230 Robins, two Twite, two Crossbills, two Lapland Buntings and one Corn Bunting.

West of the Dykes, Bempton Cliffs RSPB hosted a Pallas’s Warbler, Yellow-browed Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat and a Shore Lark.

The weather consisted of moderate/strong westerlies with a belt of rain passing through during the middle of the day. Twelve Tundra Bean Geese toured the headland, whilst a juvenile White-fronted Goose spent the day at Oceanview and a lone Barnacle Goose was in residence. In addition, a total of 270 Pink-footed Geese headed south, whilst two Jack Snipe and single Little Grebe and Velvet Scoter were also recorded. A leucistic Black-headed Gull visited Thornwick Pools during the afternoon.

A Short-eared Owl hunted the Lighthouse grasslands and nearby, a Great Grey Shrike was present in the Gorse Field. A single Shore Lark and two Snow Buntings frequented Oceanview.

West of the Dykes, the Shore Lark continued to show well at Bempton Cliffs RSPB.

A day of strong north-north-west winds and overcast skies. Seawatching highlights included five Barnacle Geese and two Eider north, single Velvet Scoter and Goosander south, three Sooty Shearwaters, three Manx Shearwaters, a Red-necked Grebe north and a first-winter Mediterranean Gull.

The headland’s goose flock contained one Taiga Bean Goose, seven Tundra Bean Geese and a single Barnacle Goose. The Great Grey Shrike again frequented the Gorse Field, whilst additional records included a Water Rail and a Ring Ouzel.

Moderate north-westerly winds lasted throughout a largely sunny day. Seawatching was rewarded with two dark-bellied Brent Geese, 30 Wigeon and two Sooty Shearwaters north, whilst ten Bonxies, a Pomarine Skua and two Arctic Skuas flew south.

A Taiga Bean Goose, 12 Tundra Bean Geese and single Pink-footed and Barnacle Geese toured the headland. Two Jack Snipe were again on Thornwick Pools, with a Short-eared Owl nearby at North Landing.

West of the Dykes, the Lesser Whitethroat showing characteristics of the Siberian blythi race showed well at Bempton Cliffs RSPB.

A day of moderate northerly winds and sunny intervals. Seawatching produced four dark-bellied Brent Geese, 29 Wigeon, three Eider, single Long-tailed Duck, Sooty Shearwater, Balearic Shearwater and Great Crested Grebe, eight Little Gulls, a Pomarine Skua and five Arctic Skuas all flying north.

Six Bean Goose and a Barnacle Goose remained, along with three Jack Snipe, a Whimbrel and two Short-eared Owls. A Shore Lark flew north along the edge of the golf course, two Siberian Chiffchaffs were located, including a bird near Highcliffe Manor, along with a Lesser Whitethroat. Four Waxwing flew in off the sea early afternoon, whilst a Red-breasted Flycatcher was discovered on the outer head. Additional sightings included two Crossbills and three Lapland Buntings.

West of the Dykes, the Siberian Lesser Whitethroat remained at Bempton Cliffs RSPB and a Short-eared Owl was in the same vicinity.

The weather consisted of moderate north-easterly winds, sunny intervals and occasional light showers. Seawatching highlights included eight dark-bellied Brent Geese, two Gadwall, five Eider, three Sooty Shearwaters and four Arctic Skuas; in addition, a Short-eared Owl came in off the sea and 70 Little Gulls lingered offshore.

The day’s best sighting related to a Hume’s Warbler discovered late afternoon near Thornwick Pools; it gave sporadic views in the line of willows immediately south of the lower hide. Nearby, a Richard’s Pipit was located in the cliff top grassland north of Thornwick camp. A Dusky Warbler was found along the path between Highcliffe Manor and the cliff top at South Landing, a Siberian Chiffchaff frequented Thornwick, whilst a Waxwing flew west over the outer head.

Other migrants included three Jack Snipe, a Jay, 50 Blackbird, 60 Fieldfare, 760 Redwing, a Ring Ouzel, 52 Robins, one Redstart, a Black Redstart, two Whinchat, four Grey Wagtails, two White Wagtails, 40 Rock Pipits and a Lapland Bunting.

West of the Dykes, a Siberian Chiffchaff was trapped and ringed at Buckton, with three Lapland Buntings at the same site and three Whinchat were at Bempton Cliffs RSPB.

Moderate/strong north-easterly winds gradually moderated during a day that featured extensive sunny intervals. Seawatching highlights included eight Eider, six Sooty Shearwaters, five Little Gulls and three Arctic Skuas north, whilst ten Bonxies and two Pomarine Skuas headed south.

The Hume’s Warbler remained in residence at Thornwick Pools, spending most of the day feeding in the line of willows south of the lower hide. Two Waxwings appeared in the same area in the afternoon, with a Richard’s Pipit showing again in the cliff top grasslands north of the camp. Three Siberian Chiffchaffs included an individual in the main ravine in South Landing, where a (presumed blythi) Siberian Lesser Whitethroat was also located; another Lesser Whitethroat visited gardens in the village.

A Water Rail was on the outer head, while Thornwick Pools attracted two Jack Snipe and a Kingfisher. Merlin, Black Redstart and Whinchat were nearby, while single Redstart and Yellow Wagtail were also relatively late migrants.

Although the winds remained north-easterly, they moderated in strength, whilst light cloud ensured it was a pleasant day to be in the field. Seawatching produced a dark-bellied Brent Goose, 20 Eider, a Red-breasted Merganser, two Sooty Shearwaters, two Manx Shearwaters and 797 Little Gulls flying north; a Sandwich Tern and 24 Bonxies also headed south.

Seven Bean Geese remained on the headland, along with 51 Teal, two Water Rails, a Jack Snipe and a Kingfisher. The star passerine was the Hume’s Warbler that continued to give ‘willow-framed views’ at close range at Thornwick Pools. Other notable sightings included: eight Waxwings (five in off the sea, two at Thornwick and one at South Landing), a Great Grey Shrike at South Landing, a Dusky Warbler, a Pallas’s Warbler at Thornwick, one Firecrest at South Landing, a Woodlark at Thornwick, the Richard’s Pipit still along the cliff top north of Thornwick, no fewer than five Siberian Chiffchaffs, a Black Redstart, two Twite and a Mealy Redpoll.

A sunny day, with very light north-easterly winds. During the seawatch, a dark-bellied Brent Goose flew south, 27 Eiders moved north, a Manx Shearwater, 130 Little Gulls and an Arctic Skua flew south, with two Bonxies heading north.

Away from the sea, 57 Teal were present, along with a Water Rail, two Jack Snipe, two Woodcock and the Kingfisher. However, the main focus of attention related to the presence of two Hume’s Warblers: one bird continued to show well in the willows south of the lower hide at Thornwick, whilst a second individual was located at Bempton Cliffs RSPB. Another Pallas’s Warbler was discovered, on this occasion in South Landing, whilst a Siberian Chiffchaff on St David Lane was also new and a Lesser Whitethroat at Hartendale showed features of blythi. The Dusky Warbler also remained on the outer head for its second day. Locally rarer, a Bearded Tit overflew the Bay Brambles, whilst additional sightings included one Ring Ouzel, two Black Redstart, a Redstart, ten Brambling, a Mealy Redpoll and one Lapland Bunting.

A moderate south-westerly established during a largely overcast day. Seawatching highlights included a dark-bellied Brent Goose south, a male Hen Harrier also flying south and two Bonxies.

A Hume’s Warbler was discovered in willows at the ‘roadside pool’ along Lighthouse Road; viewed from the roadside 100m west of Old Fall Steps. Another new arrival was a Little Bunting in the wild bird cover crop south of Whelkie Wynds. Single Pallas’s Warbler and Firecrest were present in South Landing, where a Short-eared Owl was also recorded. Other sightings included 11 Tundra Bean Geese, three Jack Snipe, a Water Rail, one Swallow, a Twite and six Lapland Buntings.

It was a day of westerly winds and generally overcast, after a bright start. During the seawatch, two Velvet Scoter, a Goldeneye, four Grey Herons and an Arctic Skua flew north.

A total of 270 Pink-footed Geese flew south, 51 Teal were in residence, whilst a Water Rail, 13 Snipe and two Jack Snipe frequented Thornwick Pools. A Rough-legged Buzzard reportedly flew west from the lighthouse mid-morning. The Hume’s Warbler remained in the willows at Roadside Pool, but proved elusive; should the bird still be present tomorrow, could we kindly request birders park in the lighthouse car-park and walk back to view from the roadside only. Single Pallas’s Warbler and Firecrest remained in South Landing, where four Crossbills flew over the car-park. A Richard’s Pipit also flew west from Old Fall during the morning.

West of the Dykes, seven Goosander flew south-east over Buckton, where there were also 30 Golden Plover.

The day started overcast, with light winds, although sunny intervals featured during the afternoon. During the seawatch, two Shoveler, six Pintail, nine Tufted Ducks and a Great Northern Diver flew south.

A total of 225 Pink-footed Geese flew south, whilst two Water Rails, two Jack Snipe and 13 Snipe frequented Thornwick Pools. A Swallow fed over the village and a Woodlark was seen on the outer head. The Hume’s Warbler was glimpsed at Roadside Pool in the morning, but there was no sign of the bird later in the day. The Pallas’s Warbler remained at South Landing, a Waxwing overflew Thornwick Pools, with a Snow Bunting and two Lapland Buntings at Cattlemere.

A calm day, with bright intervals developing after an overcast start. Seawatching highlights included a dark-bellied Brent Goose and a Manx Shearwater flew north, whilst a Whooper Swan, a Long-tailed Duck, four Great Northern Divers, ten Little Gulls, 24 Bonxies and an Arctic Skua headed south.

A total of 212 Pink-footed Geese headed south over the outer head, while there were 56 Teal, a Little Egret, two Water Rails and five Jack Snipe in residence. Two Short-eared Owls hunted the lighthouse grasslands late afternoon. The Hume’s Warbler was seen again at the Roadside Pool along Lighthouse Road; a reminder to all birders to please park at the lighthouse and walk back to view from the roadside only. Two Lapland Buntings were in fields north of Thornwick.

West of the Dykes, 540 Pink-footed Geese flew south at Bempton, as did a Lapland Bunting and two Snow Buntings. Bempton Cliffs RSPB also hosted a Siberian Chiffchaff, while there were two Lapland Buntings at Buckton.

Another day of very light winds and heavily overcast skies. Seawatching highlights included three Eiders flying south, two Sooty Shearwaters north, a Woodcock in off the sea and five Bonxies.

Nine Whooper Swans were present on the sea off South Landing. Single Water Rail and Jack Snipe remained, along with two additional Woodcock and 18 Snipe. Two Short-eared Owls again hunted the lighthouse grasslands, whilst lone Swallow and House Martin, two Lesser Redpoll and 40 Siskin frequented South Landing. The Hume’s Warbler remained in the willows by Roadside Pool, where five Snow Buntings flew over.

West of the Dykes, eight Bean Geese spent most of the day on fields near Buckton, where additional sightings included a Jack Snipe and 26 Lapland Buntings.

Mist lingered throughout the day, with a light south westerly breeze. Temperatures remained mild at 13 degrees.

The sea watch produced 488 Common Scoter, 4 Goldeneye, 1 Gossander, 1 Bonnie, 12 Kittiwake and 150 Shag. Coverage on the land was limited with the misty conditions.

Reed Bunting, by Craig Thomas

Early mist and drizzle cleared quickly to reveal a sunny day, with a moderate north westerly wind.

The wind direction was conducive to an improved sea watch, with totals including 6 DB Brent, 1 Long-tailed Duck, 1 Great northern Diver, 57 RT Diver, 9 Bonnie, 4 Pom Skua and 7 Arctic Skua.

Thornwick Pools attracted 63 Teal, 3 Wigeon, Dunlin and 4 Snipe, with 2 Jack snipe and 2 Snow Bunting also logged on the outer headland.

Grey Wagtail, Thornwick pool by Alan Walkington

A moderate north westerly wind persisted during the day, with sunny skies throughout.

Sea watch highlights included a Little Auk, 1 Whooper Swan, 24 Wigeon, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Scaup, 2 Goldeneye, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 1 Manx, 10 Bonxie and 1 Arctic Skua.

A particularly high local count of 18 Goldeneye were noted sat on the sea, whilst a further Little Auk was flew East past South Landing during the late afternoon.

Linnet, Thornwick Pools, by Don Hustings

Temperatures were cooler than of late, reaching a peak of 7 degrees Celsius. Wind was a moderate south westerly with mainly overcast skies.

There was a notable fall of migrants, with increased numbers of thrushes coming in off the sea. Notable sightings included ten Waxwing (nine in-off and one over Oceanview), 25 Woodcock, 1 SE Owl and a large pipit species, which flew north over the golf course but could not be relocated.

The sea watch was also productive with 14 Little Auk, 1 GN Diver, 1 BT Diver, 43 RT Diver, 1 RB Merganser, 1 Scaup, 1 V Scoter, 157 C Scoter, 2 LT Duck, 4 Goldeneye, 55 Wigeon, 10 Whooper Swan, 7 DB Brent and 18 PF Geese. The highlight however related to a single White-beaked Dolphin.

Five additional Little Auk and a Grey Phalarope were off South Landing, along with a female LT Duck, 1 GN Diver, 1 RB Merganser, 8 Goldeneye and 470 C Scoter. An additional 2 Whooper Swan flew south, whilst 6 DB Brent were noted feeding on the headland.

Sightings at Buckton included a ringtail Hen Harrier and 5 Woodcock in-off.

Whooper Swan, South Landing by Alan Walkington.

Long-tailed Duck, South Landing by Andrew Allport.

Wind was a moderate south westerly, with broken cloud throughout the day.

The days highlight was a juvenile Pallid Harrier which hunted the cliff top grassland between the Heligoland trap and trig point at Buckton. This represents a long overdue first record for the wider headland. The same area also held a ringtail Hen Harrier, 4 SE Owl and 4 Woodcock, whilst a Long-tailed Duck flew past Bempton.

On the outer headland, a Ring-necked Parakeet was seen flying around the Bay brambles and outer head gardens before flying West along Lighthouse Road. The Long-tailed Duck remained at South Landing, while a quieter sea watch than of late produced 1 Little Auk, 2 Velvet Scoter, 1 GN Diver, 21 RT Diver and 2 Whooper swan.

Pallid Harrier, Buckton by Paul Reed.

Pallid Harrier, Buckton by Andy Hood.

A day of strong north-north-westerlies with intermittent rain showers. Southbound on the morning seawatch saw 53 Common Scoter, two Goldeneye, six Red-throated Diver (three north) and a Great Northern Diver. Present on the sea were 62 Common Scoter, a single Long-tailed Duck and a Little Auk.

The Ring-necked Parakeet relocated to Flamborough village and proved to be mobile throughout the day. At South Landing, four Long-tailed Duck, two Little Auk and 54 Common Scoter lingered on the sea as well as an adult Mediterranean Gull toward Bridlington.

At Bempton Cliffs RSPB singles of Great Skua, Little Auk and Long-tailed Duck all flew east early morning. At Buckton, a Long-tailed Duck overflew the heligoland trap; also present were two Woodcock, two Buzzard and a single Pale-Bellied and Dark-bellied Brent Goose flew east.

Strong, brisk north-north-westerlies persisted, increasing to a moderate northerly gale; overcast with frequent showers. Seawatching highlights include 21 Wigeon south (nine north), single Teal, Goldeneye, Long-tailed Duck and Great Northern Diver north, 35 Common Scoter south (23 north), nine Red-throated Diver south (one north), 11 Sooty and a single Manx Shearwater north, seven Great Skua south and two Pomarine Skua one north, one south.

On land a Lapland Bunting overflew Oceanview Farm and a Waxwing was in Flamborough village. The South Landing wader assemblage contained 67 Turnstone, seven Redshank, three each of Purple Sandpiper and Sanderling, two Curlew and a Ringed Plover; a Little Auk, Long-tailed Duck, pair of Velvet Scoter and 63 Common Scoter were on the sea. Thornwick Pools attracted a Kingfisher, Jack Snipe and two Common Snipe.

At Buckton, a pair of Gadwall frequented the village pond and a Snow Bunting was near the heligoland trap; also present were two Stonechat and four Snipe.

Weather conditions consisted of mostly cloud cover with some rain and sleet towards the end of the morning. The wind was in a northerly direction force 5 dropping to 3 with a temperature of 6c.

The morning sea-watch produced a mix of species with the highlights being – a single Dark-bellied Brent Goose north, 54 Common Scoter south and 78 north, two Long-tailed Duck north, 14 Red-throated Diver south and 45 north, then Great Northern Diver, 79 Fulmar, Sooty Shearwater, Grey Phalarope, 13 Little Gull, eight Great Skua, six Little Auk and three Snow Bunting all north.

Other locations had five Whooper Swan north over Danes Dyke, Short-eared Owl at Oceanview, 30 Common Scoter, 13 Turnstone, seven Sanderling and 13 Rock Pipit at South Landing. A female Blackcap was at Flatmere and a Mealy Redpoll at Greenacres.

At Buckton a male “Northern” Bullfinch was caught, a Woodcock there plus two Gadwall on the pond.

Weather mostly cloud cover with a light NNW wind and 4c.

Another excellent, mixed species sea-watch with the highlights being – 22 Wigeon south and 57 north, 27 Teal north, a Scaup north, 174 Eider north, Velvet Scoter north, 15 Common Scoter south and 34 north, three Long-tailed Duck north, two Goldeneye south and one north, 14 Red-throated Diver south and 10 north, Great Northern Diver south, three south Fulmar and 58 north including two dark phase “D” type, two Little Gull south and 51 north, Mediterranean Gull north, Great Skua south and Little Auk north.

At Oceanview were two Waxwing, Lesser Whitethroat, Barred Warbler, 25 Siskin and two Lesser Redpoll. Around the wider headland, 47 Teal and a Water Rail at Thornwick Pools, five Curlew, Woodcock, two Snipe, Chiffchaff, 186 Blackbird and a female “Northern” Bullfinch near the Golf Course chalets.

Buckton still had the male “Northern” Bullfinch, Short-eared Owl and Common Redpoll.

Weather poor today with the day being mostly overcast with some light rain, winds south to east force 3 and temperature 5c.

The couple of hours sea-watch in the morning produced four Eider north, five Common Scoter south and eight north, three Red-throated Diver south and 19 north, Black-throated Diver north and three Dunlin south. Present off the headland were 50 Fulmar and thousands of Guillemot.

Due to the poor weather a rather steady day elsewhere with 31 Teal, Water Rail, Snipe and Barn Owl at Thornwick Pools. A Woodcock and Rose-ringed Parakeet were in a garden near Flamborough Church.

Buckton had Common Redpoll, 60 Blackbird, Common Buzzard, five Woodcock and five Snipe.

Weather today overcast at first with some mist and drizzle but clearing with half cloud later and winds south-west to west-north-west force 4.

A rather steady sea-watch this morning with fewer species than the last couple of days. Highlights were 25 Eider, two Great Northern Diver, eight Fulmar all north and 42 Gannet south plus 134 north. A male Peregrine was present off the headland.

South Landing had six Common Scoter, seven Oystercatcher, 31 Turnstone, Knot, three Curlew, six Sanderling, two Purple Sandpiper and 12 Rock Pipit. A male, female and juvenile Peregrine was at North Marsh and elsewhere 43 Blackbird and a pair of Bullfinch.

Weather was largely wet and miserable for the most part; a strong southerly breeze early on easing in the afternoon. Slim pickings on the morning seawatching; seven Shelduck, five Wigeon and two Shoveler south, 13 Teal south (one north), six Common Scoter south (one north), two Red-throated Diver south, eight Gannet south (one north), single Lapwing south, four Black-headed Gull south, single Common Gull south (two north) and a lone Blackbird in-off.

The adult male Mealy Redpoll remained at Thornwick. Elsewhere, a Siberian Chiffchaff, Mealy Redpoll and two Lesser Redpoll were noted on the Outer Head, as was a female ‘northern’ Bullfinch.

At Buckton, a Chiffchaff caught and ringed on 24/10 has been confirmed as the race abietinus, (DNA sample from small dislodged body feather) only the fourth confirmed record in the UK and probably first definite for Yorkshire.

A day of moderate north-north-westerlies, sunshine and highs of 8°C. Southbound highlights on the morning seawatch, unless stated, saw a single Eider, two Common Scoter and 21 Red-throated Diver (five north). Northbound birds include a single Wigeon and two Snow Bunting.

Three Waxwing graced the Outer Head, a late Swallow was at North Landing, 30 Siskin were present at South Landing and a first winter Mediterranean Gull was immediately west of the Dyke.

At Buckton, a Jack Snipe and two Gadwall were on the pond; a Jack Snipe, four Common Snipe, 15 Redwing and a Stonechat were near the heligoland trap.

Weather was overcast, with a moderate south westerly wind.

Six Gadwall flying south on the seawatch was notable, as was a Chiffchaff which flew in off the sea. Otherwise seawatch counts included 28 Common Scoter, 41 RT Diver, 4 Purple Sandpiper and 8028 Guillemot.

Addittional sightings included a Long-tailed Duck and 5 RT Diver at South Landing and 52 Teal across the headland.

Red-throated Divers, South Landing by Alan Walkington.

Mild temperatures continued, with overcast skies and a light westerly wind.

Due to the weather conditions the sea watch was relatively quiet, with Velvet Scoter, 46 Common Scoter, 56 RT Diver and 2 DB Brent Geese being the highlights. Other off-shore records related to two GN Diver off Bempton, 36 Common Scoter and a single LT Duck at South Landing.

In what has been an exceptional year for the species on the headland, a male Kingfisher briefly visited Thornwick Pools. A Lapland Bunting flew south over Oceanview, whilst 200 Pinkfeet were also logged flying south during the day. Singles of Blackcap and Chiffchaff were also noted.

Knot, South Landing by Andrew Allport.

The day saw sunny spells and a light to moderate south westerly wind.

Seawatch counts included 26 Common Scoter, 18 RT Diver, 1 BT Diver, 2 Bonxie, 1 Pom Skua, 10 Purple Sandpiper and 18747 Guillemot. Six Whooper Swan flew south over the headland late morning.

Curlew, South Landing by Alan Walkington.

Weather today was mainly overcast with a south-westerly wind force 4-6 and 7c.

The morning sea-watch had 32 Pink-footed Goose, three Gadwall, nine Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Diver and four Great Northern Diver all south. A Sooty Shearwater and Little Gull both north and 40 Oystercatcher, 50 Turnstone and five Purple Sandpiper present off the headland.

At Bempton four Great Northern Diver were on the sea, 140 Pink-footed Goose flew over and two Wheatear spp were reported. Thornwick Pools had 20 Teal, six Snipe and a “sinensis” Cormorant.

A part cloudy day with winds in a south-west direction force 5 and a temperature of only 3c.

A rather steady morning sea-watch with five Velvet Scoter and seven Common Scoter south, 10 Red-throated Diver south and 13 north, Great Northern Diver south and 52 Shag, 23 Oystercatcher and three Turnstone present at the headland.

An interesting day of movement elsewhere with at least 67 Whooper Swan and 310 Pink-footed Goose south in various sized groups. 30 Common Scoter, 37 Turnstone, four Sanderling and 15 Rock Pipit were at South Landing. A single Velvet Scoter off South Dykes. Thornwick Pools had 28 Teal, six Common Snipe, Jack Snipe and two Barn Owl. Two Hooded Crow flew west of Lighthouse Road and five Snow Buntings were also flyovers at various locations. A further two Snow Bunting were near Buckton Dell.

The weather today was part cloud cover, a south-west wind force 4 and a cool 3c.

The usual morning sea-watch produced 18 Common Scoter south, five Red-throated Diver south and four north, Black-throated Diver south and two Snow Bunting south. Present off the headland were 33 Shag, 32 Turnstone and one Purple Sandpiper.

Again, Whooper Swan movement today with three over Oceanview and seven over Buckton and shortly after over Hartendale. 79 Teal and a Barn Owl at Thornwick Pools, 16 Common Scoter, 10 Oystercatcher, 20 Curlew, 14 Turnstone and four Sanderling at South Landing. Two Chiffchaff were recorded east of the Dykes.

At least 80 Pink-footed Geese over Buckton towards Flamborough late afternoon.

Strong north-easterlies first off switching north-westerly by the afternoon; rain showers and periods of mist early on, highs of 7°C. Seawatching highlights consisted of five Velvet Scoter south and three Long-tailed Duck present off the headland.

Cold, wet and miserable; the morning started off overcast with light rain and moderate north-north-easterlies, deteriorating into heavy rain and strengthening north-easterlies by the afternoon. A brief seawatch produced three Red-throated Diver south (one north), 52 Fulmar north, 49 Gannet south (34 north), 35 Kittiwake north and a single Common Gull south (two north).

Overcast with light rain and mist early on, clearing later; wind from the south-east switching to south-south-west by late morning, highs of 8°C. Seawatching highlights included 15 Red-throated south (26 north), single Black-throated Diver north, single Great Northern Diver south, one Sooty Shearwater north and 11 Great Skua south (one north).

A single Twite associated with the Linnet flock on the Outer Head.

The weather consisted of moderate north-easterly winds, sunny intervals and light showers. Seawatching was productive with sightings including six Eiders, a Goosander and a Red-breasted Merganser flying north, with five Velvet Scoters and a Long-tailed Duck heading in the opposite direction. A total of 120 Red-throated Divers were logged passing the headland, whilst a Black-throated Diver flew north and three Great Northern Divers moved south. Six Sooty Shearwaters and two Manx Shearwaters flew north, 16 Little Gulls and 18 Bonxies went south, with two Pomarine Skuas heading north.

The winds remained light and from the north-east during a generally overcast day. Seawatching highlights included a Scaup, four Eider, 44 Common Scoters, a Great Northern Diver, four Little Gulls and a single Little Auk north, with a Bonxie heading south.

Three Long-tailed Ducks remained on the sea off South Landing.

Another day of light north-easterly winds, but with largely sunny skies. During the seawatch, a Pochard and two Little Gulls flew south, whilst 106 Eider, 30 Common Scoter and a Great Northern Diver moved north.

Amongst the wildfowl present off the southern side of the headland were two Velvet Scoter and a Long-tailed Duck. Sixty Skylarks were on Beacon Hill, whilst 15 Snow Buntings were at Oceanview.

It was a sunny day, with virtually no wind and temperatures peaking at 7 degrees C. During the seawatch, ten Eiders flew north, a Velvet Scoter headed south and between 20-30,000 Guillemots headed south out to sea.

A Whooper Swan flew south-east over the village, whilst west of the Dykes sightings from Buckton included a Grey Heron, three Snipe, a Stonechat, 40 Yellowhammers and a Corn Bunting.

The weather consisted of moderate north-easterly winds and sunny intervals. During the seawatch, two Tufted Duck, 128 Common Scoter, a Little Gull and five Bonxies flew south, whilst a Sooty Shearwater and a Pomarine Skua headed north.

Sightings along the southern side of the headland included three Goldeneye and two Long-tailed Ducks. Single Water Rail and Tawny Owl were also recorded.

The light north-easterly airstream continued with overcast skies developing after a sunny start. Seawatching highlights included 70 Teal north, three Tufted Duck, seven Eider and two Velvet Scoter south, 91 Common Scoter, two Long-tailed Ducks north, three Goldeneye and a Goosander. Solitary Little and Mediterranean Gulls flew south, whilst three Pomarine Skuas headed north.

Six Wigeon and 128 Teal were in residence on the headland’s freshwaters, with a Long-tailed Duck and 81 Common Scoters below the South Cliffs. A total of 41 Snipe was above average and a Merlin frequented North Dykes.

A sunny day with very light south-west winds, but temperatures only reached 4 degrees C by late morning. During the morning’s seawatch, 16 Eider and a Black-throated Diver flew north and three Golden Plover moved south.

Three Whooper Swans frequented Thornwick Pools. Twenty-one Snipe, a Water Rail and a Woodcock on the outer head were indicative of local, cold weather displacement. A Waxwing flew south over the headland, with three Snow Buntings at Oceanview.

Another cold day, with weak wintry sunshine throughout and a very light south-westerly wind. Single Long-tailed Duck and Velvet Scoter were on the sea off South Landing, where 23 Rock Pipits fed on the beach. Thornwick Pools attracted 43 Teal, a Grey Heron and one Snipe.

It was a day of light/moderate south-west winds, sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 9 degrees C. Sightings were scant, with seven Great Crested Grebes off Sewerby, eight Wigeon, a Grey Heron and a Common Buzzard in residence.