Category: Sightings

Moderate south-west winds prevailed throughout, whilst the day also featured sunny intervals and a band of rain. During the morning seawatch, 72 Pink-footed Geese, two Eider, 39 Red-throated Divers, seven Knot, six Dunlin, a Purple Sandpiper, a Little Stint and seven Common Terns flew south, whilst 39 Common Scoter, a Sooty Shearwater, 13 Manx Shearwaters, 84 Sandwich Terns, eight Bonxies, four Arctic Skuas and three Puffins flew north. An additional 158 Pink-footed Geese also flew south over the headland later in the day. Passerines were difficult to locate in the windy conditions, although single Sedge Warbler, Whinchat, three Grey Wagtails and a Yellow Wagtail were present.

West of the Dykes, a total of 75 Pink-footed Geese flew south at RSPB Bempton Cliffs.

A day of lighter south-west winds than of late, generally overcast with temperatures reaching 14 degrees C. Seawatching highlights included 72 Pink-footed Geese, a Sooty Shearwater and eight Bonxies flew south, with another Sooty Shearwater, 17 Manx Shearwaters, 393 Black-headed Gulls, 41 Sandwich Terns, 32 Common Terns and three Arctic Skuas heading in the opposite direction. 

An additional 170 Pink-footed Geese flew south over the headland, as did a Little Egret. However, the day’s highlight was undoubtedly a Green Woodpecker, a true local rarity, located along the cliff top between Beacon Hill and South Landing. Passerine interest included seven Whinchat, six Wheatear, a Redstart and three Corn Buntings.

West of the Dykes, 173 Pink-footed Geese flew south at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, where there was also a Swift, one Spotted Flycatcher, four Yellow Wagtails and 25 Yellowhammers. A total of 50 Pied Wagtails roosted at Muntons, near Sewerby.

A day of sunny intervals and strong south-west winds. Seawatching highlights included six Pink-footed Geese, eight Wigeon, 136 Teal, a Tufted Duck, one Great Northern Diver, a Little Egret, three Snipe, two Pomarine Skuas and two Arctic Skuas flying south, whilst four Sooty Shearwaters, five Manx Shearwaters, 51 Sandwich Terns, 15 Bonxies, a Pomarine Skua and two Arctic Skuas flew north.

Ninety Pink-footed Geese headed south over the headland late afternoon, whilst South Landing attracted 16 Ringed Plovers, a Bar-tailed Godwit and a first-winter Mediterranean Gull; another Mediterranean Gull frequented the north side where there were also six Wheatears. The Pied Crow again toured the village.

Generally overcast, with occasional mist and light drizzle and very light winds. During the seawatch, a Gadwall, one Sooty Shearwater, three Bonxies and two Arctic Skuas flew south, whilst a Little Gull, 57 Sandwich Terns and eight Common Terns moved north.

Wildfowl interest on the headland included four Wigeon, 22 Teal, a Pochard and better still, a Garganey, that was flushed from the pond in Old Fall and then flew south. Single Little Egret, Water Rail, Common Sandpiper and two Grey Plovers were also present. Additional migrant interest included two Swift, 15 Goldcrests, 36 Chiffchaffs, 24 Willow Warblers, a Spotted Flycatcher, eight Whinchat, three Grey Wagtails and 25 Siskin.

The weather consisted of strong south-westerly winds, sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 20 degrees C. During the seawatch, four Wigeon, 65 Teal and a Pochard flew south, whilst three Sooty Shearwaters, three Snipe, six Bonxies and 16 Arctic Skuas moved in the opposite direction; 15 Manx Shearwaters and a Black Tern also fed offshore during the evening. 

Thornwick Pools attracted nine Teal, two Snipe, five Dunlin and a Ruff, South Landing a Knot, 12 Ringed Plover and a Bar-tailed Godwit. A first calendar-year Caspian Gull rested on fields near North Landing, with the Pied Crow in the same area. Passerine migrants included a Whinchat and two White Wagtails.

A day that featured gale force south-westerly winds and sunny intervals. During the seawatch, two Shelduck, six Teal, 14 Red-throated Divers and a Little Egret flew south, whilst eight Bonxies and four Arctic Skuas moved north. A Greenshank also frequented the outer head.

South Landing attracted six Ringed Plovers, one Knot and a Bar-tailed Godwit, Thornwick Pools a Grey Heron, 12 Teal, four Snipe and six Dunlin.

Moderate south-west winds and relatively bright skies were replaced by heavy rain and increasingly strong winds from early afternoon. Seawatching highlights included 266 Little Gulls, 29 Common Terns, and single Arctic Skua and Bonxie flying north, whilst 16 Red-throated Divers, three Manx Shearwaters, 39 Little Gulls, a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull and two Arctic Terns flew south; a Black Tern lingered offshore. The most notable passerine record related to seven Whinchats in the Lighthouse Grassland.

A day of sunny intervals, increasing amounts of cloud and showers from late afternoon, with a strong westerly wind throughout. Seawatch highlights included two Sooty Shearwaters, six Little Gulls, 35 Common Terns, 15 Arctic Terns, and two Black Terns moving north; 18 Bonxies and 29 Arctic Skuas were also logged off the Fog Station.

The day’s main feature was a southerly movement of 905 Pink-footed Geese over the headland, concentrated from mid-afternoon. In addition, a single Pink-foot and a Gadwall frequented Thornwick Pools, five Snipe appeared to come in off the sea, whilst a Bar-tailed Godwit lingered on South Landing beach. Five Whinchat and a Wheatear were in the vicinity of the Lighthouse Grassland, whilst a Spotted Flycatcher was located near Thornwick Pools.

An overcast day, with a moderate west-south-westerly wind. Seawatching highlights included ten Sooty Shearwaters and 46 Manx Shearwaters flying north, 60 Common Scoters, 102 Red-throated Divers, five Golden Plover, a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, 46 Bonxies, 37 Arctic Skuas, an adult Long-tailed Skua and a Hobby flew south. 

Sightings around the headland included 46 Pink-footed Geese, 28 Teal, one Great Crested Grebe, a Bar-tailed Godwit, one Black-tailed Godwit at Thornwick Pools and a Spotted Redshank that initially flew over the outer head and then Thornwick Pools. Passerine interest was provided by five Goldcrests, five Whinchat, nine Wheatear, a Yellow Wagtail, one Brambling, nine Siskin and two Corn Buntings.

A light northerly wind gradually strengthened during a day that was largely sunny, with occasional, very light showers. Twelve hours of seawatching was rewarded with: 41 Wigeon, 56 Teal, two Mandarins, 56 Sooty Shearwaters, 207 Manx Shearwaters, a Balearic Shearwater, one Little Egret, a 2nd-winter Mediterranean Gull, 40 Bonxies and a juvenile Long-tailed Skua flying north. Birds heading south included 35 Pink-footed Geese, a Garganey, one Red-breasted Merganser, 74 Red-throated Divers, a Ruff and 32 Arctic Skuas. 

A Common Rosefinch frequented Old Fall Hedge early afternoon, whilst other sightings on the headland included a Redwing, 17 Siskin and the Pied Crow.

Today was always earmarked as the day we launched the Seawatch Observatory Appeal on our website – clearly the seabirds agreed and proved just why Flamborough justifies such a facility.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL

The weather consisted of light north-westerly winds and sunny skies. Seawatching was again the order of the day and was undoubtedly the year’s best by a considerable distance. Good numbers of wildfowl flew north including three Shelduck, 277 Wigeon, 223 Teal, 11 Pintail, two Shoveler, a Tufted Duck and  133 Common Scoters. A total of 81 Red-throated Divers flew south, a Storm Petrel headed north, whilst 138 Manx Shearwaters, two Balearic Shearwaters and 68 Sooty Shearwaters headed in the same direction. No fewer than four Sabine’s Gulls were also recorded, with two adults and two juveniles flying north; a juvenile that flew south was presumed to be one of the same. All four skuas were recorded including 68 Bonxies, 38 Arctic Skuas, 21 Pomarine Skuas (all bar one adults) and a juvenile Long-tailed Skua. 

Large flocks of duck also gathered off Hartendale, with 220 Teal, 80 Wigeon and two Shoveler present in the afternoon. Passerine interest included a Redwing near the Lighthouse and a Hawfinch in off the sea at Bay Brambles. 

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you.

A sunny day, with light south-westerly winds strengthening during the day. Seawatching highlights included two Shoveler, 149 Wigeon, a Pintail, 46 Teal, 217 Common Scoters, three Sooty Shearwaters, 30 Manx Shearwaters, a Little Egret, 48 Sandwich Terns, 14 Bonxies, two Pomarine Skuas and six Arctic Skuas flying north; two Eider, 83 Red-throated Divers, a Great Northern Diver and one Red-necked Grebe flew south.  

Pink-footed Geese resumed their southbound movement, with 106 logged during the day. A flock of 115 Teal were on the sea below Hartendale, with Little Egret, Marsh Harrier and Tawny Owl in the same vicinity. A ringtail Hen Harrier overflew North Marsh, whilst passerine migrants included one Yellow Wagtail; the Pied Crow again toured the village.

West of the Dykes, sightings from Buckton included presumably the same ringtail Hen Harrier seen earlier at North Marsh, five Common Buzzards, 70 Skylarks and 150 Meadow Pipits.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

A day of moderate south-west winds, brightening skis after a largely overcast skies and warmer temperatures. During the morning’s seawatch, 12 Pink-footed Geese, ten Red-throated Divers, eight Snipe, four Bonxies, two Arctic Skuas and a juvenile Long-tailed Skua flew south, whilst a juvenile Sabine’s Gull and 4000 Razorbills flew north; relatively few of the latter species having been present on previous days. An additional 53 Pink-footed Geese were seen over the headland, whilst a Great Northern Diver was on the sea in the afternoon, with a second bird moving south. Presumably the long-staying Black Redstart was again present in Thornwick Bay.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

A relatively bright, warm day with temperatures reaching 19 degrees C in an increasingly strong south-westerly wind. During the seawatch, a Little Egret, two Bonxies, three Pomarine Skuas and three Arctic Skuas flew north. 

A Marsh Harrier flew south over the cliff top at Thornwick. However, the day’s highlight related to the discovery of the autumn’s first Yellow-browed Warbler at Old Fall Steps. A Stonechat, a flock of 350 Linnets and 12 Reed Buntings frequented the Thornwick area, whilst 38 Siskin were also recorded.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

The weather consisted of light/moderate northerly winds and sunny skies, with temperatures reaching 14 degrees C. During the seawatch, 16 Wigeon, nine Teal, 74 Common Scoters, 26 Sooty Shearwaters, 45 Manx Shearwaters, a Red-necked Grebe, 809 Kittiwakes and ten Arctic Skuas flew north. Birds moving south included 99 Red-throated Divers, a Little Egret, 15 Bonxies and ten Arctic Skuas. A total of nine Pomarine Skuas were logged, with eight heading south and one bird flying north.

Passerine interest included Pied Crow and Yellow-browed Warbler in the village, the latter presumably yesterday’s bird relocating, three Coal Tits in Old Fall, the Black Redstart at Thornwick, one Lesser Redpoll and three Corn Buntings.

Another sunny day, with light south-west winds increasing in strength throughout. During the morning’s seawatch, six dark-bellied Brent Geese, two Shelduck, 178 Wigeon, eight Pintail, 84 Teal, 164 Common Scoter, a Red-breasted Merganser, one Sooty Shearwater, four Manx Shearwaters, two Mediterranean Gulls, a first calendar-year Yellow-legged Gull,  three Bonxies and an Arctic Skua flew north. Another dark-bellied Brent Goose, 38 Pink-footed Geese, 105 Red-throated Divers and a Little Egret moved south.

An additional 83 Pink-footed Geese flew south, 19 Common Buzzards drifted onto the headland and a Grey Plover flew south. Passerines included the Pied Crow in the village,  three Stonechats and six Goldcrests.

West of the Dykes, sightings included five Common Buzzards and 50 Skylarks at Buckton, with two Stonechat and 100 Linnets at RSPB Bempton Cliffs.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

Moderate south-westerly winds switched to a west-north-westerly later, on a day featuring sunny intervals. During the seawatch, ten Wigeon, 55 Red-throated Divers, a Great Northern Diver and two Little Egrets flew south, whilst two Mediterranean Gulls and a Pomarine Skua flew north. In addition, six Blue Fulmars were logged: four flying north, two moving south and a second calendar-year Mediterranean Gull lingered off the headland. 

Another Pomarine Skua harassed gulls off Breil Nook. On the opposite side of the headland, sightings from South Landing included two Golden Plovers, 32 Skylarks and two Grey Wagtails heading west, with five Goldcrests present and six Lesser Redpolls caught and ringed.

The day’s highlight came on the Yorkshire Belle cruise off the headland when a Basking Shark showed well.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

The day began with strong north-north-west winds that gradually reduced in strength before a more westerly airflow re-established; bright spells were interspersed with squally showers during the morning. Seawatching highlights included: 22 Pink-footed Geese moving south, with three dark-bellied Brent Geese, 80 Wigeon, a Pintail and three Velvet Scoters flying north. A total of 161 Manx Shearwaters also flew north, together with a Great Shearwater at 0853hrs and 55 Sooty Shearwaters. Skua interest was provided by 51 Bonxies, 50 Arctic Skuas and nine Pomarine Skuas, including five adults flying north during the evening. Two Little Egrets and a first-winter Mediterranean Gull lingered around the outer head. 

Elsewhere, the Pied Crow remained in residence in the village and a Snow Bunting was located near the Gorse Field.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

The weather consisted of light north-west winds at dawn, which strengthened to force six north-north-westerlies. by the middle of the day before ameliorating once again. Seawatching highlights included a Shoveler, 101 Wigeon, 13 Pintail, a Velvet Scoter, one Great Northern Diver, a Storm Petrel, 12 Sooty Shearwaters, three Bar-tailed Godwits, 20 Snipe, one Red-necked Phalarope and four Arctic Terns flying north. Birds heading south included four Eider, a Little Egret, 53 Red-throated Divers, a Leach’s Petrel, 27 Bonxies, a Pomarine Skua, 38 Arctic Skuas and two Snow Buntings. 

Elsewhere, five Whooper Swans flew south over the headland and the Pied Crow remained in the village.

A relatively overcast morning, with occasional sunny intervals during the afternoon and light south-west winds. During the seawatch, 13 Sooty Shearwaters, 63 Manx Shearwaters, 34 Bonxies, nine Pomarine Skuas, 36 Arctic Skuas and a Long-tailed Skua flew north, whilst three Velvet Scoters headed south. 

Six Whooper Swans rested on the sea off South Landing and 40 Barnacle Geese were recorded; 23 flew north-west, 13 moved south and four east. A Little Egret remained on the outer head, whilst a first-winter Mediterranean Gull followed the plough on Beacon Hill.

A significant influx of thrushes and Skylarks occurred, with 1857 Redwing making landfall between 0830-1215hrs. Additional totals involved 70 Fieldfares, six Song Thrush, a Jay, 128 Skylarks (including 88 at Oceanview), 44 Meadow Pipits, 15 Chaffinch, 19 Siskin and 12 Lesser Redpolls which included nine caught & ringed at South Landing.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

An overcast day, with light south-west winds and temperatures reaching 16 degrees C. During the seawatch, six Wigeon, two Sooty Shearwaters, nine Manx Shearwaters, 17 Little Gulls, nine Bonxies and 12 Arctic Skuas flew north, two Pomarine Skuas were recorded (north and south) and a Little Egret also flew south. In addition, a Minke Whale headed north past the Fog Station.

Away from the sea, two Whooper Swans frequented Oceanview, whilst the goose flock attracted 27 Pink-feet and a Barnacle Goose. 

An overcast day, misty at times and drizzle during the afternoon; calm at first, with a moderate northerly developing later. Rewatching highlights included 74 Common Scoter and a Red-breasted Merganser flying north, 53 Red-throated Divers and a summer-plumaged Great Northern Diver south, a first calendar-year Mediterranean Gull, two Bonxies and 14 Arctic Skuas. 

The Barnacle Goose and three Pink-feet remained with the Greylag flock, whilst a Short-eared Owl came in off the sea on the outer head. Passerine migrants were scarce, but included five Goldcrest, a Willow Warbler, three Chiffchaffs, four continental Song Thrush, two Redwing, a Wheatear and a Snow Bunting.

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

A day of moderate north-north-east winds, rain until early afternoon and brighter spells by the evening. Seawatching highlights included 14 Wigeon, 32 Teal, two Pintail, a Tufted Duck, two Pochard, 286 Common Scoter, a Velvet Scoter, three Sooty Shearwaters, a Bar-tailed Godwit, one juvenile Long-tailed Skua and a second-winter Mediterranean Gull flying north. A drake Goldeneye flew south, along with a Leach’s Petrel at 1620hrs, whilst four Pomarine Skuas were logged: three adults moved north and a juvenile headed south. Elsewhere, a Barnacle Goose visited Thornwick Pools.

An arrival of passerines was precipitated by the rain which included two Jays, no fewer than nine Yellow-browed Warblers, 14 Coal Tits, 12 Goldcrest, 16 Chiffchaff, one Willow Warbler, a Lesser Whitethroat, eight Blackcap, 145 Redwing, nine Song Thrush, three Ring Ouzel, ten Fieldfare and 89 Brambling. 

Before reading further, could I please ask you to kindly help us fund the construction of our observatory building. Once in situ, it will secure seabird monitoring moving forward  and the data obtained from studies will help conserve our threatened species. Click here for further details and how you can help…. FBO SEAWATCH OBSERVATORY APPEAL Thank you – all your help is very much appreciated!

A relatively bright start to a day that featured increasing amounts of cloud, with a strengthening westerly wind. Seawatching highlights included two dark-bellied Brent Geese, 195 Common Scoters, ten Sooty Shearwaters, 37 Manx Shearwaters, a Red-necked Grebe, 2288 Kittiwakes, two Mediterranean Gulls, 28 Bonxies, two Pomarine Skuas and 26 Arctic Skuas flying north, with 12 Pink-footed Geese, two Pintail, a Red-breasted Merganser moving south; 12 Eider were also recorded, with eight north, four south.

A Whimbrel over South Landing represented a relatively late record, with single Woodcock and Jack Snipe also making landfall. Passerine migrants included a Barred Warbler at Bay Brambles, two Goldcrest, 17 Yellow-browed Warblers, a Lesser Whitethroat, four Blackcap, five Chiffchaff, 240 Redwing, 203 Fieldfares, five Ring Ouzels, 93 Skylarks (including many heading west, after making landfall on the outer head), a Spotted Flycatcher, five Grey Wagtails, 31 Brambling and 46 Siskin.

West of the Dykes, a Barred Warbler and two Yellow-browed Warblers were present at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, with the former caught and ringed.

A cloudy day, with occasional sunny spells and an increasingly strong south westerly wind. Counts from the morning sea watch included 12 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 16 Teal, 1 Pochard, 1 Goldeneye, 31 Common Scoter, 13 Red-throated Diver, 2 Grey Plover, 1 adult Little Gull, 1 Sandwich Tern, 1 Bonxie and 3 Arctic Skua. An additional 9 Pintail flew over the village.

Many of the previous days highlights remained with the Barred Warbler still in the Bay brambles, 15 Yellow-browed Warbler (including 6 at South Landing and four at Old Fall), 12 Brambling and small numbers of Redwing and Fieldfare. Ringing totals from South Landing included 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Blackcap and 1 Goldcrest.

A Little Stint and 3 Dunlin dropped onto Thornwick pool during mid-afternoon, with a Goldeneye and Water rail also there late in the day. A Barnacle Goose was at Oceanview and the Pied Crow continued to roam around the village.

Bempton held 2 Yellow-browed Warbler and a Ring Ouzel.

Little Stint, Thornwick Pools by Alan Walkington.

Barnacle Goose, Oceanview by Andy Hood

Barred Warbler, Bay brambles by Lee Johnson

A moderate to strong south westerly wind continued throughout the day making birding on the land hard work. Rewards included six Yellow-browed Warbler (with an additional bird at Bempton), a Barred Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 1 Wheatear, 2 Lapland Bunting and a Stonechat. 39 Teal were spread across the headlands fresh water bodies. Yesterday’s Little Stint remained on Thornwick Pool during the early morning but became flighty as the morning progressed and was not seen after midday. Similarly the Goldeneye was also on the pools first thing but had departed by mid-morning after a brief foray onto the fishing pool. A Mute Swan flew over.

Highlights on the morning sea watch included 2 1st winter Mediterranean Gull, Shoveler, 8 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver, 1 Manx Shearwater, 1 Bonxie and4 Arctic Skua.

Yellow-browed Warbler by Paul Reed.

The weather consisted of sunny skies and light south-west winds. During the seawatch, an adult Pomarine Skua, seven Arctic Skuas and two Bonxies flew north, whilst an adult Mediterranean Gull lingered offshore. Elsewhere, four Eider were off Beacon Hill and a Short-eared Owl frequented the North Landing area.

Passerine interest included nine Yellow-browed Warblers, an acredula Willow Warbler, one Garden Warbler, a Lesser Whitethroat showing characteristics of blythi, 55 Skylarks, one Ring Ouzel, two Stonechat, three Snow Buntings and three Corn Buntings.

West of the Dykes, sightings from Buckton included a Pink-footed Goose, 350 Skylarks moving south-east and six Stonechats. 

A genuine easterly airflow for almost the first time in living memory resulted in a significant arrival: heavy rain for a couple of hours gave way to sunny intervals, whilst moderate south-easterly winds featured throughout.

North Marsh attracted 47 Teal and three Wigeon, whilst a ringtail Hen Harrier quartered fields in the same area before heading west over Holmes Gut. Eighteen Snipe made landfall, whilst five Golden Plovers toured the headland. An impressive arrival of passerines occurred during and after the rain, with: a Barred Warbler at North Landing, 21 Yellow-browed Warblers, that included a bird in off the sea at the Fog Station, ten Chiffchaffs, 12 Blackcap, a Willow Warbler, 410 Skylarks, four Stonechat, three Wheatear, seven Whinchat, 11 Redstarts, 11 Ring Ouzels, 380 Redwing, 560 Song Thrush, 60 Blackbirds, 76 Fieldfare, 84 Chaffinch, two Hawfinch (Old Fall Steps, North Landing), 262 Brambling, two Siskin, a Snow Bunting and four Corn Buntings.

West of the Dykes, sightings from RSPB Bempton Cliffs included three Yellow-browed Warbler, a Willow Warbler, 35 Song Thrush, three Ring Ouzels, a Redstart, one Pied Flycatcher, a Hawfinch, 23 Brambling and two Siskin.

Gale force southerly winds were the main feature of an overcast day with occasional light rain. Seawatching highlights included a pale-bellied Brent Goose, a drake Mandarin Duck, 130 Wigeon, 557 Teal and 42 Dunlin flying south, with two Little Gulls flying north.

Thornwick Pools hosted 19 Teal, single Wigeon and Dunlin, together with two Snipe. Despite the strong winds, it was evident that some migrants remained from yesterday’s influx: six Yellow-browed Warblers were equally split between the outer head and North Landing, with four Ring Ouzels at the latter site and a Redstart on the former.

The weather consisted of strong south-westerly winds and generally overcast skies; the day’s striking feature were the warm temperatures, peaking at 21 degrees C well after dark. During the morning seawatch, 32 Wigeon, 47 Teal, a Goosander and seven Little Gulls flew south. A juvenile Pomarine Skua flew north early afternoon, whilst an additional seven Little Gulls headed south later. 

Thornwick Pools attracted two Greenshank and three Dunlin; four Mediterranean Gulls were also in residence. Migrants also included four House Martin, four Swallows, ten Yellow-browed Warblers, two Whinchat, three Redstarts, three Stonechat and 14 Ring Ouzels, with the latter including several arriving late afternoon.

West of the Dykes, an Olive-backed Pipit flew south-east over RSPB Bempton Cliffs late morning which represented a reserve first; a Ring Ouzel frequented the chalet park in Bempton village.

A day of moderate north-westerly winds and rain throughout. Seawatching highlights included four Eider, a Velvet Scoter, a Mediterranean Gull and an Arctic Skua flew south. An increase in Blackbirds was apparent despite the inclement birding conditions, with a Ring Ouzel remaining in the Gorse Field.

West of the Dykes, seven Pintail, three Chiffchaffs and a Yellow-browed Warbler were present at RSPB Bempton Cliffs. 

An overcast day, with a moderate north-easterly wind and rain until mid-morning. Seawatching highlights included two dark-bellied Brent Geese, 22 Wigeon, 27 Teal, 54 Common Scoter, five Eider, a Red-breasted Merganser, 14 Red-throated Divers, two Manx Shearwaters, 44 Golden Plovers, two Bonxies, four Sandwich Terns and three Mediterranean Gulls flying north, with three Great Northern Divers, a Red-necked Grebe, eight Bonxies, seven Arctic Skuas and 12 Little Gulls heading south. Two Slavonian Grebes close inshore off the Fog Station were more unusual still, with a Common Sandpiper at South Landing and a Short-eared Owl in the Gorse Field.

Passerine migrants included eight Swallows, 12 Goldcrests, a Willow Warbler, four Chiffchaffs, seven Yellow-browed Warblers, six Wheatear, 890 Redwing, 380 Fieldfare, 40 Song Thrush, 25 Blackbird, two Mistle Thrush, 75 Chaffinch, 92 Brambling and a Hawfinch; the latter at South Landing.

West of the Dykes, single Short-eared Owl, Long-eared Owl and a newly arrived Yellow-browed Warbler were seen at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, whilst 60 Lapwing, two Ring Ouzels and five Brambling graced Buckton.

A fantastic arrival of migrants occurred during light south-west winds and overcast skies. A Merlin was seen near North Landing, whilst wader interest included a Dotterel accompanying Golden Plovers over the headland, with 86 of the latter recorded, one Woodcock, a Jack Snipe and two Snipe. A Short-eared Owl also frequented the North Landing area. The day’s highlight related to the discovery of an Olive-backed Pipit mid-afternoon at North Landing by a visiting birder. Additional passerine totals included: a Swallow, 35 Goldcrest, 21 Yellow-browed Warblers, a Barred Warbler (Bay Brambles), ten Blackcap, 12 Chiffchaff, 35 Skylark, 7350 Redwing, 1110 Fieldfare, 760 Song Thrush, 17 Ring Ouzel, 375 Blackbirds, 120 Starling, two Wheatear, three Stonechat, a Redstart, one Pied Flycatcher, a Grey Wagtail, 125 Brambling, one Lesser Redpoll and three Crossbill. A total of 103 birds were caught and ringed which included five of the aforementioned Yellow-browed Warblers, 24 Redwing and 21 Song Thrush.

West of the Dykes, sightings from Buckton included a Jack Snipe, a Yellow-browed Warbler, 3000 Redwing, 150 Song Thrush, 100 Fieldfare, 14 Ring Ouzels and eight Brambling.

The weather consisted of light south-west winds and overcast skies, with brighter intervals later. Seawatching highlights included 21 Red-throated Divers, a Black-throated Diver, one Great Northern Diver, two Mediterranean Gulls and four Arctic Skuas flying south.

A Little Egret frequented the shore below the Fog Station, 12 Common Buzzards and three Short-eared Owls were present, which included two of the latter coming in off the sea. On the passerine front, the Olive-backed Pipit remained at North Landing, giving good views on occasion along the eastern path leading onto the cliff top. Two Waxwings were new arrivals, which included one bird watched flying in off the sea on the outer head, whilst other migrants included 44 Goldcrest, seven Yellow-browed Warblers, the Barred Warbler (Bay Brambles), 560 Redwing, 15 Ring Ouzels, 560 Tree Sparrows, 41 Brambling, five Lesser Redpoll, 23 Siskin, seven Twite and three Snow Buntings. The Pied Crow continued its protracted stay in the village.

A day of light north-westerly winds and sunny skies. Seawatching highlights included three dark-bellied Brent Geese (two north, one south), two Red-breasted Merganser and 16 Red-throated Divers south, three Manx Shearwaters and a Mediterranean Gull north, with two Bonxies and three Arctic Skuas heading in the opposite direction. Six Pintail and a Great Northern Diver flew past the Fog Station during the evening.

A Jack Snipe overflew South Landing. A total of nine Yellow-browed Warblers remained, as did the Barred Warbler (Bay Brambles) and Olive-backed Pipit (North Landing). Three Ring Ouzels, five Stonechats, a Wheatear, one Pied Flycatcher, seven Twite (flock of five and two singles on the outer head) and two Lesser Redpoll were also located. A Little Bunting near Old Fall and then west represented the first of the autumn.

West of the Dykes, Buckton attracted 170 Lapwing, 35 Golden Plovers, a Whinchat, 80 Skylark and two Snow Buntings.

A bright day, with prolonged sunny intervals and a light south-west wind. Seawatching highlights included six dark-bellied Brent Geese (two north, four south), 26 Wigeon, two Tufted Duck, a Great Northern Diver flying south, 136 Little Gulls north, three Bonxies south, five Arctic Skuas north, a juvenile Pomarine Skua lingering offshore and a juvenile Long-tailed Skua doing the same.

Eighteen Whooper Swans (16 and two) moved south, along with eight Pink-footed Geese, whilst a Water Rail sheltering in a cave in Selwick’s Bay was undoubtedly ‘fresh in’; a Jack Snipe was also flushed from the nearby Lighthouse Grassland. Although not on the scale of earlier in the week, an arrival of passerines took place, headlined by two Waxwings. Additional sightings included 96 Skylarks, two Jays, 910 Starlings (inc. 620 in off during the seawatch), 155 Blackbird, 40 Song Thrush, 430 Fieldfare, 270 Redwing, three Ring Ouzel, five Yellow-browed Warblers, the Barred Warbler, six Lesser Redpoll, 30 Brambling, eight Crossbill and a Lapland Bunting. A total of 69 birds were caught and ringed, including 16 Blackbird, nine Redwing, five Song Thrush, a Treecreeper and two Lesser Redpoll.

West of the Dykes, sightings from Reighton included ten Whooper Swans and 20 Crossbill. RSPB Bempton Cliffs attracted 60 Skylark, 180 Redwing, one Ring Ouzel, a Whinchat, five Brambling and 30 Chaffinch.

The weather consisted of light south-westerly winds and bright, m but generally overcast, skies. During the seawatch, eight Wigeon, 15 Teal, one Common Tern and an Arctic Skua flew north, with two Pink-footed Geese and a Pomarine Skua heading south. In addition, a Great White Egret flew in off the sea from the south at 0825hrs (and later overflew Old Fall), as did a Short-eared Owl.

Away from the sea, four Whooper Swans headed south, a second Great White Egret flew west over Old Fall/Hartendale at 0815-0820hrshrs, three Woodcock and five Jack Snipe were also recorded, including two of the latter at Thornwick Pools, whilst North Marsh hosted nine Wigeon. Passerine interest included five Yellow-browed Warblers, six Chiffchaff, five Blackcaps, one Ring Ouzel, a Redstart, five Lesser Redpolls, a Twite, four Crossbill and two Lapland Buntings. 

A total of 91 birds were ringed during the day, including a Sparrowhawk, 30 Blackbird, six Redwing, two Song Thrush,  two Blackcap, a Chiffchaff, one Yellow-browed Warbler, three Yellowhammer and 21 Tree Sparrow.

West of the Dykes, sightings from RSPB Bempton Cliffs included three Whooper Swans and 65 Pink-footed Geese heading north-west, a Goosander and eight Golden Plovers moving south, 213 Skylarks in off the sea and four Stonechats.

A relatively bright day, with light south-west winds and temperatures reaching 17 degrees C. Seawatching highlights included a juvenile Pomarine Skua flying south and 400 Little Gulls feeding offshore.

Ten Whooper Swans flew south over the outer head and a single rested at North Marsh in the morning. Two Short-eared Owls flew in off the sea near the Fog Station, including one on the morning’s seawatch. A local record 15 Little Egrets were recorded: a flock of ten birds flew south over the outer head, four flew south past South Landing and another headed in the same direction over Thornwick Pools. Woodcock and Water Rail frequented South Landing, where a Velvet Scoter and Red-breasted Merganser rested offshore, whilst Thornwick Pools hosted another Water Rail and a Jack Snipe. Three Yellow-browed Warblers lingered, including a single at Old Fall, as did a Ring Ouzel. A total of 38 birds ringed during the day included eight Blackbirds, a Chiffchaff and three Blackcap.

West of the Dykes, a ringtail Hen Harrier came in off the sea at Bempton, with first-winter Mediterranean Gull, Ring Ouzel and Coal Tit recorded at Buckton.

A bright, sunny day with a light/moderate north-westerly wind. Seawatching highlights included a pale-bellied Brent Goose, 19 Whooper Swans, two Shoveler, a Pintail, one Eider, 30 Red-throated Divers and seven Bonxies flying south, with two Manx Shearwaters and two Mediterranean Gulls heading in the opposite direction. A total of 1500 Little Gulls fed offshore, whilst further sightings at the Fog Station included a Short-eared Owl in off, three Snow Buntings overhead and a Twite that lingered in the area all day. 

Fifteen Whooper Swans rested on the beach near New Fall, a Jack Snipe showed well at Thornwick Pools, whilst a first-winter Common Tern graced South Landing. Passerine interest was relatively limited, with one Wheatear, two Lesser Redpoll and nine Crossbill; the latter flying over Holmes Gut. Butterfly interest included two Small Coppers near the Fog Station.

A sunny day, with a moderate/strong west-north-west wind and temperatures reaching 17 degrees C. Seawatching highlights included nine Whooper Swans, 48 Red-throated Divers, a Great Northern Diver, a Sooty Shearwater, two Manx Shearwaters, 11 Bonxies and ten Arctic Skuas flying south, with two Velvet Scoters moving north. A Red-breasted Merganser and 370 Little Gulls were seen off the Fog Station. 

The Water Rail remained at Thornwick Pools, a ringtail Hen Harrier flew west over Hartendale mid-morning and a Short-eared Owl frequented the Gorse Field. Two Yellow-browed Warblers included a single at South Landing. The Pied Crow continued its long stay in the village being seen once again on Beech Avenue.

West of the Dykes, presumably the same Hen Harrier was seen at RSPB Bempton Cliffs.

Another sunny day throughout, with light westerly winds and temperatures reaching 15 degrees C. Seawatching highlights included two Velvet Scoter, seven Manx Shearwaters and 45 Little Gulls moving north, with an adult Mediterranean Gull and two Arctic Skuas heading south. An additional 300 Little Gulls fed offshore.

An arrival of migrants occurred during the day, but one of the more notable records related to a Little Owl seen near the entrance to Thornwick Camp. Notable records included two Water Rail, two Woodcock, a Jack Snipe, a Short-eared Owl, two Chiffchaff, three Yellow-browed Warblers (Old Fall, South Landing, South Dykes), a Blackcap, 375 Redwing, 176 Fieldfare, a Water Pipit at South Dykes and four Brambling. The Pied Crow was seen once again along Beech Avenue.

West of the Dykes, single Chiffchaff and Blackcap were present in the Dell at RSPB Bempton Cliffs.

The airflow switched to a north-westerly during a day of extended sunny intervals and temperatures that reached 15 degrees C. The highlight related to a count of 134 Pomarine Skuas that included a minimum of 100 birds heading south past the Fog Station between 3.15-4.15pm; 34 birds were seen during the morning, 30 heading south and four tracking back north. Other noteworthy records included a Black-throated Diver, two Great Northern Divers, three Manx Shearwaters and nine Little Gulls flying north, with six Bonxies and five Arctic Skuas also logged. A Short-eared Owl came in off the sea and two Twite frequented the outer head cliff top. Away from the outer head, two Yellow-browed Warblers remained at South landing.

The day began with moderate north-westerly winds, with strong northerly winds establishing during the afternoon; temperatures peaked at 9 degrees C before dropping to 5 degrees C, whilst showers, occasionally heavy, featured throughout. During a dawn till dusk seawatch, the standout record related to 156 Pomarine Skuas that flew south (third best count after 330 on 10th November 1985 & 201 on 9th October 1992). Other highlights included a Velvet Scoter, 170 Common Scoters, four Goldeneye, eight Goosanders and 78 Red-throated Divers flying south, a drake Long-tailed Duck, one Black-throated Diver and a Great Northern Diver moving north. A total of 606 Kittiwakes, nine Arctic Skuas, 29 Bonxies, a Sandwich Tern and an Arctic Tern also flew south. Another feature was the arrival of significant numbers of passerines in off the sea, including 105 Starlings, 1125 Fieldfares and 61 Redwing; they were accompanied by a Merlin and two Woodcock in off the sea.

Elsewhere, Thornwick Pools hosted a Little Grebe and a Jack Snipe. Two Woodcock were also located on the headland, together with six Twite and a Hawfinch; the latter at South Landing.

The weather consisted of gale force northerly winds, prolonged heavy showers of sleet/rain and temperatures of four degrees C. Once again, seawatching proved productive, with 305 Wigeon, 120 Teal, 16 Mallard, three Pintail, eight Scaup, six Red-breasted Mergansers, a Long-tailed Duck and six Goldeneye flying north. Ten Barnacle Geese and three Great Northern Divers flew south into Bridlington Bay, with two of the latter pitching down off South Landing, where a Red-necked Grebe also flew in from the south. A Storm Petrel, six Sooty Shearwaters, 40 Manx Shearwaters and a Grey Phalarope headed north, whilst 12 Bonxies flew south. A total of 26 Pomarine Skuas were noted during the day, with 15 birds flying south and 14 north. Best of all, a Black Guillemot flew north past the Fog Station, with 17 Little Auks heading in the same direction. Four Short-eared Owls flew in off the sea, along with 675 Starlings.

Bridlington Bay also sheltered two pale-bellied Brent Geese, six dark-bellied Brent Geese, two Velvet Scoter, a female Long-tailed Duck, two Red-breasted Mergansers, four Mediterranean Gulls and ten Little Gulls.

South Landing attracted four Woodcock, ten Hooded Crows (including a flock nine strong), a Ring Ouzel, 200 Blackbirds and 20 Brambling, whilst a Short-eared Owl, Chiffchaff and Brambling were seen on nearby Church Lane. An additional Woodcock and a Long-eared Owl were present in the Bay Brambles.

West of the Dykes, sightings from Buckton included two Brent Geese, ten Manx and a Sooty Shearwater, ten Pomarine Skuas and three Woodcock.

Another great seawatching day, with strong north-easterly winds, sunny intervals and occasional showers; temperatures peaked at 7 degrees C. During the seawatch, five dark-bellied Brent Geese, eight Shelduck, 134 Wigeon, a Scaup, 244 Wigeon, four Velvet Scoters, 500 Common Scoters, two Long-tailed Ducks, six Goldeneye, a Red-breasted Merganser, five Black-throated Divers, six Great Northern Divers, a Storm Petrel, one Sooty Shearwater, 29 Manx Shearwaters, two Red-necked Grebes, a Grey Phalarope, 3900 Kittiwakes, 365 Little Gulls, 34 Bonxies, 46 Pomarine Skuas, seven Arctic Skuas, 175 Little Auks and a Black Guillemot all flew north.

Two Long-tailed Ducks lingered offshore at South Landing, an adult Glaucous Gull flew north late afternoon, whilst two Short-eared Owls, 550 Starlings and 11 Crossbill flew in off the sea. Other migrant totals included a Water Rail (South Landing), 11 Woodcock, a Long-eared Owl, one Hooded Crow (South Landing), 42 Goldcrest, four Siberian Chiffchaffs, ten Chiffchaffs, two Blackcap, 300 Blackbirds, a Hawfinch (South Landing), two Twite and one Snow Bunting.

West of the Dykes, two Barred Warblers frequented the Dell at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, with one of these caught and ringed; one Short-eared Owl, a Ring Ouzel, 1500 Starlings and a Crossbill were also present. Sightings from Buckton included 17 Eiders, a Velvet Scoter and 410 Common Scoters flying north, 12 Woodcock, two Long-eared Owls, including one caught and ringed, 15 Goldcrest, 50 Blackbirds and 300 Starling.

The weather consisted of moderate east-north-easterly winds, sunny skies with occasional showers. Stealing the headlines, a Coues’s Arctic Redpoll was located along the nature trail at RSPB Bempton Cliffs during the afternoon; it gave superb point blank views to a succession of admirers. No fewer than three Barred Warblers were also present on the reserve. Sightings from nearby Buckton included two Whooper Swans, eight Woodcock, a Short-eared Owl, 19 Goldcrests and a Whinchat; a Barred Warbler and three Common (Mealy) Redpolls were also caught and ringed. Photos showed that the Barred Warbler was one of the individual’s seen earlier in the day at RSPB Bempton Cliffs 1km to the east.

During the morning’s seawatch, the following flew north past the outer head: three dark-bellied Brent Goose, 211 Eider, three Velvet Scoters, 85 Common Scoters, two Black-throated Divers, a Great Northern Diver, one Red-necked Grebe, 46 Little Gulls, four Bonxies, three Pomarine Skuas, six Arctic Skuas and 59 Little Auks. Two Long-tailed Ducks were again off South Landing.

A Great Grey Shrike was located in the Bay Brambles early morning; although elusive, it toured the same area throughout the day. A Short-eared Owl came in off the sea at the same location, where a Water Rail was also obviously fresh-in. The arrival of Siberian Chiffchaffs continued, with no fewer than four birds located – singles near the Lighthouse, Old Fall and two at South Landing. Other migrant totals included eight Woodcock, one Hooded Crow (South Landing), a Waxwing (South Sea Road), 85 Goldcrests, a Yellow-browed Warbler (South Landing), single Willow Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat, 142 Blackbirds, one Black Redstart, a Water Pipit (South Landing), 14 Crossbills, a Twite and five Common (Mealy) Redpolls.

A day of strong north-north-easterly winds, squally showers and temperatures reaching seven degrees C. Seawatching highlights included 14 Eider, two Velvet Scoter, a Goosander, ten Little Gulls, two Bonxies, an Arctic Skua and five Little Auks moving north, with a Velvet Scoter and two Goldeneye heading in the opposite direction. Sightings from South Landing included single dark-bellied Brent Goose, Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver, Mediterranean Gull and Little Gull.

Migrant totals included a Water Rail at South Landing, two Hooded Crows, four Woodcock, a Great Grey Shrike (South Landing), 48 Goldcrests, four Chiffchaff, three Siberian Chiffchaffs (South Landing), two Yellow-browed Warblers, 115 Blackbirds, 110 Redwing, 70 Fieldfare, 18 Brambling, nine Siskin and six Mealy Redpoll. The Pied Crow continued its sojourn in the village.

The Coues’s Arctic Redpoll remained at RSPB Bempton Cliffs although it was more elusive; the reserve also hosted a Yellow-browed Warbler and a Barred Warbler.

The weather consisted of moderate south-west winds and sunny intervals. During the seawatch, a dark-bellied Brent Goose, six Eider and a Bonxie flew north, with a Red-breasted Merganser headed south. 

Sightings included 14 Wigeon at North Marsh, a Little Grebe, three Water Rails, four Woodcock, eight Snipe, 105 Golden Plover flying south, 31 Lapwings and a Long-eared Owl near North Marsh. Passerine interest included 205 Skylarks, 41 Goldcrests, single Barred Warbler and Siberian Chiffchaff at Old Fall, one Yellow-browed Warbler, a Willow Warbler, four Waxwing, a Black Redstart, three Twite, seven Mealy Redpoll, seven Brambling, a Northern Bullfinch (Bay Brambles), four Crossbill and a Snow Bunting.

West of the Dykes, a Barred Warbler continued to show well at RSPB Bempton Cliffs; interestingly the same individual that had moved from Bempton to Buckton, where it had been rung.

Cloudy for much of the day, with persistent light rain until early afternoon, and light winds. During the seawatch, a Long-tailed Duck, 43 Red-throated Divers and a Great Crested Grebe flew south, whilst one Great Northern Diver headed north. 

A Hooded Crow frequented fields near Old Fall and two Siberian Chiffchaffs continued their stay at South Landing. RSPB Bempton Cliffs continued to host a Barred Warbler.

Light westerly winds and sunny skies after a frosty start, resulted in good birding conditions. During the seawatch, a dark-bellied Brent Goose and one Sooty Shearwater flew north, with 200 Pink-footed Geese heading in the opposite direction.

The day’s highlight related to a juvenile White-tailed Eagle that flew in off the sea from Bridlington Bay at 1550hrs; it had earlier flown north over the Humber at Spurn. After touring the headland, it eventually landed in a tree at North Dykes where it went to roost.

A Water Rail frequented the main ravine in South Landing, whilst a Swallow appeared near the Old Lighthouse. A Shore Lark that overflew the outer head appeared to land at Cattlemere, but wasn’t relocated. South Landing hosted both a presumed blythi Lesser Whitethroat and a Yellow-browed Warbler. Three Siberian Chiffchaffs remained (two South Landing, one Old Fall), although two Snow Buntings were new. The autumn’s second Little Bunting was discovered late afternoon, feeding in sycamores at South Landing.

West of the Dykes, a Barred Warbler and three Lapland Buntings were seen at RSPB Bempton Cliffs.