Category: Sightings

Generally a sunny day with some cloud and a light south-west wind, with the temperature rising to 21c.

Seawatching produced 127 Fulmar north, 16 Manx Shearwater north (and a further 14 south), 11 Teal south and eight north, 121 Common Scoter north, two Arctic Skuas north, and 42 Common and seven Arctic Terns flying north. A juvenile Yellow-legged Gull lingered offshore this evening, whilst an adult was again present on the Golf Course during the morning. In addition, 45 Oystercatchers on the Outer Head represented an increase, with a single Whimbrel also present.

Again, Thornwick Pool attracted a mix of species which included two juvenile Shelduck, one Wigeon, two Snipe, two juvenile Grey and one juvenile Yellow Wagtail and a Cuckoo.

Willow Warblers appeared to be on the move, with three on the Outer Head and another two at Buckton. Two Marsh Harriers were also present in the latter area, whilst 250 Swifts moved west there during the evening.

Sunny intervals with a moderate west-south-westerly that strengthened during the day. The seawatch highlights included 156 Fulmars heading north, a Sooty Shearwater moving in the same direction, 25 Manx Shearwaters flying north, and a southerly movement of waders that included 34 Sanderling, 248 Dunlin and 53 Black-tailed Godwits. A Bonxie flew north, together with 98 Sandwich and 16 Common Terns. A Common Sandpiper was on the rocks below the Fog Station, together with 35 Turnstone.

The Wigeon remained in residence on Thornwick Pool, where there were also six Snipe, a Dunlin and two Yellow Wagtails.

A subtle change in the weather, with a light westerly and at times, a heavy overcast with occasional showers. The seawatch produced 113 Fulmars and 57 Manx Shearwaters flying north, a Little Egret and 22 Dunlin flying south, a single Black-tailed Godwit moving north and 123 Redshank going south. A total of five Arctic Skuas went north, as did four Bonxies and a juvenile Mediterreanean Gull. A juvenile Yellow-legged Gull headed south, whilst 224 Sandwich Terns flew north.

Three Yellow Wagtails overflew the Fog Station, with another on Thornwick Pool. The Wigeon remained at the latter location, together with six Snipe, two Dunlin and a juvenile Cuckoo.

The day featured a strengthening southerly wind, with a bright start ending with heavy showers. Seawatching produced a Great Crested Grebe and 89 Common Scoters flying north, with a southerly wader movement including 91 Oystercatchers, 36 Knot and 12 Whimbrel. A total of 432 Sandwich Terns moved north, together with 22 Common Terns. However, the day’s highlight was five Little Terns that headed south; three together in the morning and an adult and a juvenile during the evening. In addition, five Eider were off the Outer Head.

Highlights from Thornwick Pool included the Wigeon, two Green Sandpipers, single Common Sandpiper and Redshank, six Snipe, three Dunlin, the juvenile Cuckoo, three Yellow, two Grey and 75 Pied Wagtails, plus a flock of 95 House Sparrows.

A generally light southerly wind featured throughout, with occasional heavy showers. The seawatch recorded seven Shelduck and 30 Teal moving south, with a single Shoveler and 73 Common Scoters heading north. Southbound waders included 23 Bar-tailed Godwits, 37 Redshank, 46 Knot and a Greenshank. In addition, two Arctic Skuas and a Bonxie flew past the Outer Head, along with a Little Gull south and 340 Sandwich Terns flying north. There was an increase in Cormorant numbers, with 53 present; at least 26 of which were of the continental ‘sinensis’ race.

Large numbers of gulls rested on the beach between Sewerby and South Landing. There were 2500 Kittiwakes, together with ten Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 410 Black-headed Gulls.

Thornwick Pool hosted single Wigeon and Tufted Duck, single Snipe (with another over), Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover, Green Sandpiper (with another three flying south) and the juvenile Cuckoo.

A moderate south-south-west wind and sunshine predominated once again. The seawatch highlights included 17 Manx Shearwaters moving north, three Tufted Duck south, 84 Knot and 15 Whimbrel doing the same, an Arctic Skua flying north, two Mediterranean Gulls south (an adult winter and a juvenile) and five Little Gulls also south. In addition, there were 40 ‘sinensis’ Cormorants, 55 Shags, 275 Sandwich, 50 Common and 25 Arctic Terns.

A Little Tern was offshore between South Dykes and South Landing this evening, together with 22 Redshank, 16 Sanderling, 13 Turnstone and a Whimbrel. Thornwick Pool attracted single Snipe and Redshank, whilst two juvenile Cuckoos were present together during the evening.

A day-hunting Barn Owl near a nest box immediately west of South Dykes was indicative of an adult still feeding young. The species has had an excellent breeding season locally, with indications that around 15 pairs may have bred on the Flamborough Headland.

Continued moderate south-south westerly winds with ample sunshine across the greater headland. Seawatching this morning produced 42 Fulmar, two Manx, three Teal, 122 Common Scoter, one each of Arctic and Great Skua, 167 Sandwich, 114 Common and nine Arctic Tern all moving north; 14 Dunlin, 11 Redshank, one Swift, 18 Sandwich, one Common and five Arctic Tern moving south. An evening seawatch was fairly quiet, species of note were one Great Skua blogging south then north, three Manx and one Arctic Tern north and 21 Oystercatcher south.

At Thornwick Pool today were four Snipe, a Grey Wagtail, a Green Sandpiper and the juvenile Cuckoo was still making an appearance. There was an adult intermedius Lesser black-backed Gull on the golf course this morning and three Willow Warblers were recorded on the outer head. Hirundine numbers are building up over the village, with a large group of 200+ Swallows seen feeding, and (not bird related for a change) there appeared to be an influx of Red Admiral butterfly arriving, with numbers observed along the cliff-top and seen coming in-off.

Between South Dyke and South Landing there were two Common Sandpiper, three Whimbrel and eight Sanderling.

Light force one winds today with the direction moving round to south-south-east and the sun was scorchio! Seawatching produced two Great Crested Grebe, 57 Fulmar, six Manx Shearwater, one Teal, 237 Common Scoter, one Velvet Scoter, 11 Redshank, one Arctic and one Great Skua, 267 Sandwich, 54 Common and one Arctic Tern and one Minke Whale all heading northward; heading south were six Manx, six Shelduck, three Teal, three Tufted Duck, 47 Oystercatcher, one each of Knot and Dunlin, one Whimbrel, two Curlew, 15 Redshank, seven Turnstone, one Arctic Skua, a 1st-cy and juvenile Mediterranean Gull, 11 Common, ten Arctic and three Little Tern.

Thornwick Pool held two Common Snipe, three Grey, three juvenile Yellow and 32 Pied Wagtails. Two juvenile Cuckoo were again seen, as were Barn Owl and 140 Linnet. Leaf warblers were still present on the outer head, with two Chiffchaff and five Willow Warbler noted.

South Landing had five Oystercatcher, eight Ringed Plover, 15 Dunlin, one Curlew, nine Redshank, 13 Turnstone and three Migrant Hawker dragonflies.

Unsettled weather across the greater headland, though warm, with light showers throughout the day, a thunderstorm in the afternoon and force 3 south-south-westerly winds increasing to force 5 late in the day. This morning’s seawatch saw, moving south unless stated, five Manx Shearwaters, 12 Teal, two Shoveler, two Common Scoter (31 north), 185 Oystercatcher, five Golden Plover, 24 Knot, four Whimbrel, four Curlew, three Turnstone, two Arctic Skua and 11 Sandwich Tern (98 north). Northbound birds included 12 Fulmar, three Eider, two Common and three Arctic Tern.

An evening watch produced 137 Oystercatcher, four Dunlin, two Greenshank, one Knot, ten Lesser Black-backed Gull and a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull all south; one Curlew, one Arctic Tern, five Eider and 32 Common Scoter north and five Manx north (four south), two Sandwich Tern north (15 south) and 40 Common Tern north (eight south).

Two juvenile Cuckoo still at Thornwick Pool; also, two juvenile Common Snipe, one Greenshank, two Barn Owls and Yellow Wagtail there. A Whimbrel south flew over the village at lunchtime.

South Landing’s wader assemblage consisted of six Ringed Plover, five Oystercatcher, six Dunlin, two Sanderling, one Curlew and one Redshank. Large Swift and hirundine numbers remained, with 100 of the former and between 2-300 of the latter feeding around the Outer Head. Unsurprisingly, a Hobby was also in attendance.

.

A mild west-north-westerly ranging between force 0-3 for much of the day, sunny and warm. Seawatching highlights include 210 Fulmar north, four Manx Shearwater north (two south), one Mallard north, 11 Common Scoter north (one south), 14 Oystercatcher, one Ringed Plover and seven Whimbrel north, three Curlew south, three Arctic and one Great Skua north, 48 Sandwich Tern north (15 south), 50 Common Tern north (two south) and five Arctic Tern north (three south).

The juvenile Greenshank and Cuckoo were still present at Thornwick Pool, as were two Dunlin and two Common Snipe. At South Landing were one Ringed Plover and three Dunlin. On the Outer Head, a Hobby flew over mid-afternoon, as did a Great Skua; two Willow Warbler were also seen. Buckton had one Golden Plover over and there was a confiding Dunlin on the pool along Hoddy Cows Lane.

A fine start to the day; south-south-easterly force 3 with intermittent sunshine, deteriorating in the evening with rain showers. Slim pickings on this morning’s seawatch with 27 Fulmar and one Manx Shearwater north, six Oystercatcher, one Golden Plover and nine Whimbrel south and 39 Sandwich Tern north (two south).

The juvenile Cuckoo and Greenshank still grace Thornwick Pool, as do three Dunlin, four Common Snipe, five Pied Wagtail and five Whimbrel flew over. An unseasonal argentatus Herring Gull was found on the golf course and a Sparrow Hawk was seen over the village.

At South Landing there were five Dunlin, one Ringed Plover, 40 Pied Wagtail, three Yellow Wagtail and five Rock Pipit. 22 Sandwich Tern and 30 Common Scoter were observed flying north; in the area were also two Coal Tit and a Wall butterfly.

Further afield in the Bempton area were single Reed and Garden Warbler, two Blackcap, eight Whimbrel and a single Curlew flew south and 12 Swift were feeding over the village.

Sunny spells with a south westerly force 3, rising to force 5 at times throughout the day, highs of 20°C. Northbound birds only this morning with two Manx Shearwater, one Arctic Skua and 78 Sandwich Tern. A single Greenshank on rocks below the fog station.

At Thornwick Pool were two Common Sandpiper, one Green Sandpiper, two juvenile Dunlin, three Common Snipe; the juvenile Greenshank and Cuckoo were still present. A juvenile Cuckoo was also observed at the gorse field and Bay Brambles during the day.

South Landing waders included two Curlew, six Oystercatcher, four Dunlin and eight Ringed Plover. A Grey Plover on the beach south of Old Fall plantation. At least 40 Swift feeding over Outer Head still, not long ’til they’ll be gone for another year.

In the Buckton area were three Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Wheatear, Marsh Harrier, Barn Owl, Peregrine, Grey Wagtail and a juvenile Cuckoo. A Chiffchaff and Lesser Whitethroat were at the pond.

WET and WINDY! As the tail end of hurricane ‘Bertha’ reached the east coast, heavy rain showers occurred across the greater head with the odd thunder storm; wind south-easterly switching to south-westerly as the day went on averaging force 5 and reaching force 7 at times. Seawatching produced ten Teal, 21 Sandwich Tern and one Manx Shearwater south. Five female Eider where on sea below High Stacks. At Selwicks Bay 23 Black-tailed Godwit flew south, as did 14 Redshank.

Two Little Gull were seen off North Landing; South Landing’s high tide waders included seven Whimbrel, 13 Curlew, 11 Sanderling and a single Common Sandpiper. On the golf course flash were ten roosting Redshank and a single Dunlin. A Corn Bunting was in the Lighthouse compound, which is an unusual record.

Heavy rains have created a temporary flash on the approach to Bempton Cliffs, viewable from Cliff Lane. Two Ruff, Green Sandpiper and Yellow Wagtail seen there this afternoon.

N.B No photo’s submitted today so enjoy a couple sent in earlier this week.

Monday 11^th– Wednesday 13^th August.

,Over the last three days cools winds have stayed mostly in the west to south-west, whilst intermittent sunshine and flash floods have added interest. Gulls have headlined with two different juvenile Caspian Gulls and one adult. One of the juveniles bore a green darvic ring probably from colony in eastern Germany. Also present have been one possible Caspian/Herring hybrid, one juvenile Yellow-legged Gull and an adult argentatus (Northern) Herring Gull which was very unseasonal.

Seawatches had a scattering of usual seabirds, with 6 Bonxie and 3 Arctic Skua south on 11th and small numbers of Manx Shearwaters, Common, Arctic and Sandwich Terns, mostly heading north. Waders very much in evidence with 10 Whimbrel south on Monday, 8 Knot south on Tuesday, 2 Greenshank and up to 6 Redshank around the head, adult alpina Dunlin, Little Ringed Plover (Monday) 2 Snipe 1 Green Sand , 1 Common Sand, and 2-3 Golden Plover seen most days. A Little Egret has been commuting between Thornwick and flash floods near Old Fall, whilst 1-2 juvenile Grey Herons remain in the area.

Swifts and hirundines have dominated the skies, as up to 40 juvenile Swift patrolled the outer head, numbers now dwindling. Willow Warblers are the most noticeable passerine migrant, with up to 8 in Bay Brambles early morning today (wed), with a handful seen most days. A scattering of Lesser Whitethroats, 3 Wheatear and one juvenile Cuckoo (Bempton) have also made appearances. A Clouded Yellow was seen today (wed) in Cattlemere and Migrant Hawkers are on the wing in several places, easiest to see at South Landing.

Fresh westerly’s and sunshine early morning. Highlights included an adult Caspian Gull on the Golf Course; a new bird that makes it 4 Caspian Gulls in 4 days– a new Flamborough record!

However, more notable still were three Cory’s Shearwaters together, loafing offshore of the Fog Station during the afternoon from 1525hrs.

Several hundred hirundines fed over the golf course with just a handful of Swifts remaining; single juvenile Whimbrel  and juvenile Curlew were also on the Golf Course. Small numbers of Willow Warblers, Lesser Whitethroats, Common Whitethroats and Yellow Wagtails all appeared in migrant habitat, with a Wheatear on the Golf Course.

At Thornwick Pools this evening were one juv Ruff, six Common Sandpiper, three Dunlin and two Yellow Wagtails. A Green Sandpiper flew south over Old Fall Hedge.

Additional for yesterday, Paul Reed photographed a Marsh Harrier with green wing-tags with the letters NS on the right wing.

Some early showers then sunny for the best part of the day with occasional cloud. A steady northerly wind but dying down towards the evening.

Migration starting to hot up now we are in the middle of the month with the sea-watch producing another Cory’s Shearwater which was observed at 4.55pm off the headland then north, eight Arctic Skua, two Pomerine Skua, 126 Manx Shearwater, six Sooty Shearwater, 183 Oystercatcher, 123 Common Tern and four Greenshank.

At Thornwick Pools there were a juv Shelduck, three Dunlin, two Greenshank, a Common Sandpiper and a juv Cuckoo. Nearby at Old Fall pool there were 3 Greenshank, two adult and one juv Peregrine at Northcliff, Wheatear on the Golf Course and at North Landing and at least six Willow Warbler around the Outer Head.

Common Sandpiper by Andrew Allport

Juv Mediterranean Gull by Andrew Allport

Juv Greenshank by Tony Simpson

Weather conditions had mostly cloud cover with a temperature of 15-18c. Wind was WSW force 5 earlier on then veering SW 4 later in the day.

An early morning sea-watch at the headland produced another single Cory’s Shearwater flying north at 08.45, four Sooty Shearwater north, two Arctic Skua, five Great Skua north, 60 Manx Shearwater north and a further 80 south, 40 Common Tern north, two Arctic Tern north, one Whimbrel south and the nearby Bay Brambles had a Great Spotted Woodpecker.

A further sea-watch at the headland late afternoon and early evening had 49 Fulmar south and a further 24 north, five Manx Shearwater south and six north, one Whimbrel, two Arctic Skua, two Great Skua, seven Sandwich Tern south and five north, 51 Common Tern south and 45 north, two Swift south and a Yellow-legged Gull present off the headland.

Thornwick Pools had a small mix of wader with two Greenshank, two Dunlin and five Snipe. Additionally, a “Sinensis” Cormorant, a juv Yellow Wagtail and 15 Pied Wagtail. On Old Fall Flash were one Greenshank, one Green Sandpiper over and two Yellow Wagtail with a Greenshank flying over Ocean View. A Pied Flycatcher was at Old Fall in the morning.

Whimbrel, by Martin Garner

Mostly cloud cover during the day, with winds from the WSW force 5 and temperatures 13-16c.

There were two seawatches from the headland today, with an early morning session and again during the early evening. Highlights from these included 207 Fulmar north, four Manx Shearwater, 13 Common Scoter north, 14 Redshank south, one Arctic Skua south, two Great Skua, two juvenile Caspian Gulls flying north, 10 Sandwich Tern south and 99 north, 14 Common Tern north and four Arctic Tern north. Birds present off the headland included 16 “sinensis” Cormorants.

Early in the morning an adult Yellow-legged Gull was located on the Golf Course again, with one Ruff and five Dunlin at South Landing and one Knot, four Dunlin and one Curlew at Old Fall Flash. On the outer headland there were also 65 Greylag Goose, six Lesser Black-backed Gull and a very large group of at least 775 Great Back-backed Gulls.

It was considered that there were up to four juvenile/1st-winter Caspian Gulls present on the outer headland.

Mostly cloud cover again, with the wind from a NNW direction force 5 increasing to force 7. Showers tracked through during the day.

An early seawatch on the headland produced a rather large total of 1298 Fulmar north, 49 Manx Shearwater north, two Peregrine north, eight Arctic Skua south, two Great Skua, three Mediterranean Gull north, two Little Gull north and 11 Common Tern north, with 45 Oystercatcher and 20 Turnstone present.

A 4th calendar-year Polish-ringed Caspian Gull was again on Old Fall Flash having first been seen with other large gulls the previous evening (17th). At the same site were two juvenile Ruff, two Dunlin, four Greenshank and 63 Greylag Geese.

Thornwick Pools attracted Greenshank, Dunlin and three juvenile Grey Wagtails.

Following a spell of north-westerlies on Monday, keen seawatchers were rewarded with a Great Shearwater north in the morning and a Cory’s Shearwater late on in the evening. Also 781 Fulmar, 16 Sooty Shearwater, 383 Manx Shearwater, Pomarine Skua, Little Tern and Marsh Harrier. On the land a 1^st winter Caspian Gull, and a good selection of waders included 4 juvenile islandica Black-tailed Godwits, 4 Dunlin, 3 Snipe, one Ruff and 2 Greenshank. Smaller birds included a scattering of Willow Warbler and Lesser Whitethroats and a single Wheatear.

Early morning walkers were surprised by a juvenile Long-tailed Skua flying north over the Old Fall flash. An evening seawatch with a noticeable swell brought birds close, with the best seawatch so far this autumn: 2 Sabine’s Gull, 2 Cory’s Shearwater, one juvenile Long-tailed Skua, 12 Sooty Shearwater, three Pomarine Skuas, juv Med Gull and 3 Little Tern. A 1^st summer Yellow-legged Gull was among the large gulls on the land, with a Common Buzzard over Old Fall.

A more becalmed day, with WSW winds bringing a notable Swallow movement and the best on the sea was a stunning summer plumaged Black-throated Diver going south, one Sooty and 79 Manx Shearwaters and a 1^st winter Mediterranean Gull. Two Grey Wagtail and a single Greenshank were on Thornwick Pool.

North-north-west winds continued becoming variable from the west and north and dropping towards the end of the day. There was far less bird activity on the sea than earlier in the week but thankfully that didn’t deter birders from what turned out to be a productive seawatch! The highlight was a Great Shearwater flying north at 1535hrs. A Balearic Shearwater later in the afternoon was welcome in what has been a quiet autumn for this species so far. The evening ended with 2 Sabines Gulls, 1 adult and 1 juvenile. 175 Manx Shearwater, 17 Arctic Skua and small numbers of waders and terns were also seen.

At Northcliff Marsh there were 2 Little Egrets. On Thornwick Pool the highlights were 1 Greenshank and 1 Green Sandpiper along with a male Pochard, a scarce local species in summer; two Common Buzzard were seen over the village.

In the lighthouse moth trap four species of Prominent were notable with Iron, 2 Pebble, Swallow and Plain recorded, along with a Copper Underwing agg.

Light to moderate northerly winds dropped by the end of the day moving round to a south-westerly direction. The seawatch produced the following highlights: a single adult Sabines Gull in summer plumage, one 2nd-summer Mediterranean Gull, four Pomarine Skuas and a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull.

At Buckton there was a ringtail Hen Harrier, 9 Buzzard, 1 Hobby and 3 Peregrine, along with 1 Spotted Flycatcher and a Cuckoo. Hirundines were present in numbers again, with 500 Swallow recorded at Bempton RSPB.

The flooded fields near Old Fall held Greenshank, Green Sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover, Ruff, 2 Knot and 3 Dunlin. Thornwick Pool attracted a juvenile Greenshank, Grey Heron, Snipe, Grey Wagtail and the drake Pochard remained.

Willow Warblers were present in small numbers with 10 around Selwicks Bay/Coastguard Cottages. The day ended on a high, with a juvenile Caspian Gull near Old Fall and the first scarce land bird of the autumn in the form of a Barred Warbler in the Bay Brambles.

A light north-westerly wind later switched to a south-easterly in the afternoon, whilst sunny intervals prevailed throughout the day. The seawatch highlight was undoubtedly the three Cory’s Shearwaters that moved north during the afternoon/evening; the first flew north at 1550hrs, the next at 1745hrs, whilst another headed north at 1810hrs and, after periodic spells on the sea, it eventually tracked north at 1840hrs. Other notable records included two Sooty and 156 Manx Shearwaters north, a juvenile Mediterranean Gull, 130 Common Terns and 12 Arctic Terns, also all north, whilst eight Purple Sandpipers headed south.

The loafing gull flocks again attracted a minimum of two juvenile Caspian Gulls and two juvenile Yellow-legged Gulls, whilst an adult ‘argentatus’ Herring Gull was also present. The flashes near Old Fall also attracted two Knot, a Ruff and a Greenshank. Thornwick Pool hosted the male Pochard, two Teal, a Grey Heron, single Dunlin and Greenshank and two Grey Wagtails.

The Barred Warbler remained in Selwick’s Bay and proved relatively co-operative, showing well at times in the extensive bramble patches. Additional passerine migrants included 10+ Willow Warblers split between Bempton and the Outer Head and a Reed Warbler at Bempton RSPB. Post-breeding dispersal of Great Spotted Woodpeckers seemed to feature across the Headland, with singles noted at Selwick’s Bay, Old Fall, Thornwick Pool and Bempton RSPB.

Elsewhere there were 11 Common Buzzard and two Marsh Harriers in the Buckton/Speeton area, with another Common Buzzard over the Outer Head.

Overcast conditions and a light south-easterly wind strengthened during the day. Seawatch highlights included a Balearic Shearwater, five Sooty Shearwaters, 267 Manx Shearwaters and three juvenile Long-tailed Skuas all north, juvenile Mediterranean and Yellow-legged Gulls, one Little Gull and 248 Common Terns moving north. Later in the day, an adult Yellow-legged Gull was joined by a juvenile on a field near the lighthouse.

The amazing run of Caspian Gull records also continued, with two new juveniles seen during the day; a bird sporting a green ring on fields near the Lighthouse and a single on the beach at Sewerby that later flew towards South Dykes.

Yesterday’s Barred Warbler was joined by a second bird in the Selwick’s Bay area this morning, before one flew towards the Coastguard Cottage gardens. Other migrants included a Garden Warbler in the same area, whilst five Ruff, two Knot, two Greenshank and a Green Sandpiper were noted on the Outer Head. In addition, the juvenile Greenshank remained at Thornwick Pool, where single Snipe, Grey Heron and Grey Wagtail were also present. A Hobby also flew over Bempton RSPB.

A moderate north-easterly and sunny intervals predominated. Seawatching produced 70 Manx Shearwaters heading north, a Blue Fulmar, a juvenile Long-tailed Skua that initially flew south before heading back north and a juvenile Mediterranean Gull.

Thornwick Pool held a Greenshank, two Green Sandpipers, a Ruff and a Dunlin, whilst the flashes near Old Fall attracted two Greenshank, three Ruff, two Ringed Plover and two Knot.

Passerines arrived in small numbers and included a ‘new’ Barred Warbler at ‘Booted Gully’; the small scrubby ravine east of South Landing. In addition, two Pied Flycatchers and a Spotted Flycatcher were present, with small numbers of Willow Warblers scattered across the headland.

Three Common Buzzards were noted at Buckton, with a Marsh Harrier at Speeton.

The seawatch in sunny conditions and very light east-north-east winds was much quieter. Sightings included just a single Manx Shearwater heading north, 53 Teal and 54 Common Scoter flying north, a Greenshank, seven Bonxies north and four Arctic Skuas moving south. A juvenile Caspian Gull rested on fields adjacent to Old Fall before flying east.

Common Buzzards were on the move, with ten observed over the Outer Headland and another five over Buckton, where there were also two Marsh Harriers. A flock of seven Greenshank overflew the Outer Head, whilst Thornwick Pool hosted single Snipe, Greenshank and Green Sandpiper, and a Knot remained on the flashes near Old Fall.

With the total number of records barely into double-figures at Flamborough, the bird of the day was a Kingfisher at North Marsh, where there was also a juvenile Little Grebe. The Barred Warbler re-appeared within the willows alongside the Golf Course at Selwick’s Bay, whilst a scattering of common migrants included five Pied Flycatchers, four Whinchat, Spotted Flycatcher and Garden Warbler.

Light/moderate south-westerlies, with seawatching restricted to the evening, when an impressive 707 Little Gulls and 482 Common Terns moved south. The Kingfisher remained at North Marsh, where there was also Little Grebe, Green Sandpiper and Dunlin. The flashes at Old Fall attracted three Knot, a Green Sandpiper, two Greenshank, a Ringed Plover, two Dunlin and four Snipe, whilst Thornwick Pool held five Teal, three Greenshank, two Green Sandpipers and two Dunlin. A total of 36 Whimbrel also moved south during the day.

Migrant passerines included the Barred Warbler still in Selwick’s Bay, seven Pied Flycatchers and four Whinchat. Two Marsh Harriers remained in residence in the Buckton area. Large numbers of hirundines were scattered around the Headland, with 590 House Martins and 235 Swallows recorded.

Moderate south-westerlies and showers occurred throughout. Seawatching highlights included a Sooty Shearwater flying south and a juvenile Marsh Harrier moving in a similar direction, as did a juvenile Mediterranean Gull and two Little Gulls, whilst two juvenile Yellow-legged Gulls headed north.

The adult Yellow-legged Gull was again seen on a field near the Lighthouse, whilst the green colour-ringed juvenile Caspian Gull visited the flashes at Old Fall during the afternoon. The same site also attracted a juvenile gull that showed features associated with Baltic Gull.

Thornwick Pool attracted Teal, Grey Heron and Greenshank, whilst single Snipe and Stonechat were at North Marsh.

Passerine migrants included eight Whinchat and a juvenile Cuckoo at Buckton, a Pied Flycatcher in the Bay Brambles and four Yellow Wagtails on the Outer Head.

A moderate/strong south-westerly wind and sunny intervals ensured the seawatch was relatively quiet. Highlights included 75 Little Gulls feeding offshore, with another seven flying north, two juvenile Yellow-legged Gulls and a first-winter Mediterranean Gull north, 50 Oystercatchers south and 75 Common Terns north.

Gull flocks again received scrutiny, with the green-ringed juvenile Caspian Gull again on the flashes near Old Fall, the putative juvenile Baltic Gull sporadically in the same area and a juvenile Mediterranean Gull at Sewerby.

The flashes at Old Fall attracted a Little Stint, three Greenshank, four Dunlin, two Knot, three Ringed Plover and 11 Snipe, whilst single Greenshank and Snipe were present at Thornwick Pool. A creamcown Marsh Harrier overflew the same area, with another frequenting Buckton/Bempton.

Passerine migrants included a Wryneck on the cliff top path alongside the Golf Course in the evening, the Barred Warbler still present in Selwick’s Bay, four Pied and a Spotted Flycatcher on the Outer Head, at least 15 Willow Warblers in the same area and two Whinchat at Buckton.

However, one of the better sightings of the day was non-avian; a Sunfish swam southwards close inshore at 1720hrs with a group of gulls in attendance.

The day started with a north-westerly, whilst the wind had switched to a light south-easterly by dusk. A summer-plumaged Black-throated Diver flew north past the Headland on the seawatch, as did two Sooty Shearwaters, whilst a first-winter Mediterranean Gull headed south. Two Caspian Gulls were noted during the day; the darvic-ringed third-summer first seen on 17th August, re-appeared at Old Fall Flash. A new un-ringed fourth calendar-year was then present on a field near the Lighthouse this evening.  In addition, the adult Yellow-legged Gull was again on the Golf Course this morning.

The flashes at Old Fall hosted the juvenile Little Stint, six Ringed Plover, three Golden Plover, four Dunlin, two Greenshank and two Snipe. The juvenile Greenshank remained at Thornwick Pool, as did single Snipe and Dunlin. One Grey Heron was at the same location, with two at North Marsh.

The Wryneck was relocated in Selwick’s Bay during the morning, whilst the Barred Warbler showed sporadically in the same area, along with a family party of Stonechats. A Whinchat and Reed Warbler were present at Thornwick Pool, whilst Willow Warblers were scattered around the Headland.

A light south-south-west wind and generally overcast conditions with occasional drizzle. The seawatch produced five Wigeon and 206 Teal heading north, with a first calendar-year Mediterranean Gull also north. An Ocean Sunfish swam past during the evening – for the second time over the past three days – and attracted the attention of a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull. A pelagic trip arranged by Yorkshire Coast Nature obtained close views of a 1st winter Caspian Gull and among several Arctic Skuas, a dark type  juvenile Long-tailed Skua.

The flashes near Old Fall hosted a selection of waders including four Curlew Sandpipers, two Little Stints, seven Ringed Plover, three Dunlin and single Greenshank and Green Sandpiper. A Bar-tailed Godwit was present at nearby Oceanview, whilst Thornwick Pool attracted 78 Teal, a Greenshank and a Green Sandpiper.

A Short-eared Owl hunted the Gorse Field and nearby, the Barred Warbler and Wryneck remained in Selwick’s Bay.

A light/moderate north-westerly and generally overcast conditions resulted in a better seawatch. Two Balearic and one Sooty Shearwater headed north, a Greenshank flew south, and a juvenile Long-tailed Skua moved north. Ten Little Gulls flew north, together with 1962 Black-headed Gulls and six Mediterranean Gulls. A total of 740 Great Black-backed Gulls were noted off the Head, with a minimum of one juvenile Caspian Gull also present.

Waders at Old Fall Flash were represented by three juvenile Curlew Sandpipers, two Little Stints, two Greenshank, three Dunlin and three Ringed Plover. A Greenshank and ten Teal were at Thornwick Pool, where a Grey Plover also flew over. Two Shoveler and a Little Grebe were at North Marsh.

The Barred Warbler and Wryneck were still present in Selwick’s Bay, whilst additional migrants included a Cuckoo, 17 Yellow Wagtails, Whinchat and two Pied Flycatchers. A total of 860 Meadow Pipits, mainly on the Outer Head, represented an increase. Single Marsh Harrier and Common Buzzard also overflew the latter area.

Light easterly winds, with an overcast morning before the sun broke through in the afternoon; classic drift conditions and migrants started to arrive in the afternoon. Seawatching was relatively quiet, although a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull flew south. Two juvenile Caspian Gulls were present on a field near the Lighthouse late morning. The flashes near Old Fall attracted a Ruff, two Green Sandpipers, five Greenshank, a Ringed Plover and a Dunlin, whilst the juvenile Greenshank remained on Thornwick Pool.

Common Buzzards were on the move this morning, with a flock of eight birds drifting west over the Headland and a single bird doing the same. Passerines included 22 Whinchats (including one at Buckton), ten Pied Flycatchers (one at Buckton) and two Redstarts.

A very light northerly wind, with overcast conditions prompted further arrivals of drift migrants. The seawatch produced three Sooty Shearwaters flying north, 12 Shelduck and two Gadwall moving in a similar direction, together with 21 Little Gulls, 147 Common and 13 Arctic Terns. Single juvenile Mediterranean and Yellow-legged Gulls were also present.

Marsh Harrier and Hobby were present on the Outer Head, whilst the flashes attracted three Greenshank, two Green Sandpipers and a Little Stint.

Drift migrants included a Wryneck in the ‘Gorse Field’, 20 Whinchats, 14 Pied and four Spotted Flycatchers, and five Redstarts; eight Yellow and two Grey Wagtails were also present.

A light northerly wind and generally overcast conditions prevailed. The seawatch highlights included 50 Wigeon and 237 Teal flying north, a single Ruff and a dark juvenile Long-tailed Skua moving north. There were two 1st calendar-year Mediterranean Gulls, 1425 Black-headed Gulls north and the year’s first two Black Terns off the headland. A juvenile Yellow-legged Gull congregated with gulls on the Outer Head, whilst a Marsh Harrier and an adult-type Hobby were noted in the same area. Waders included a Little Stint on the flashes, a Greenshank, and a juvenile Black-tailed Godwit on Thornwick Pool, where a Little Grebe has taken up residence, and a drake Shoveler was also present.

Passerine migrants included 13 Whinchat together in the Gorse Field, two Tree Pipits heading south, a Cuckoo, together with seven Pied and three Spotted Flycatchers on the Outer Head. Buckton attracted a further three Pied Flycatchers, six Whinchats and two Redstarts.

A light north-north-west wind and persistent, although mainly light, rain sporadically throughout the day. Seawatching produced ten Red-throated Divers flying south, a Blue Fulmar moving north, as did two Sooty and one Balearic Shearwaters. Sixteen Golden Plovers headed south, together with one Greenshank, but best of all, a pale ‘type’ juvenile Long-tailed Skua flew slowly north.

The flashes near Old Fall hosted several species of waders, including two juvenile Little Stints, a juvenile Curlew Sandpiper, seven Ruff, two Greenshank, two Green Sandpipers, a Golden Plover, two Redshank, seven Dunlin and 12 Snipe. Thornwick Pool attracted a Grey Heron, nine Teal, juvenile Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit and Little Stint, together with the Little Grebe. A Hobby was hunting the Bay Brambles area during the evening, whilst a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull was in the Selwick’s Bay area.

A Barred Warbler on the southern end of Old Fall Hedge was presumably a recently arrived individual, whereas the Wryneck in the brambles at Selwick’s Bay was presumably the same bird lingering from earlier in the week. Additional migrant passerines included 48 Whinchat (including ten at Bempton), 17 Wheatear, eight Redstarts, two Tree Pipits, 14 Goldcrests, five Pied and five Spotted Flycatchers (including one at Buckton).

A light north-west wind, with unbroken sunshine after an overcast start. Seawatch highlights included a Sooty Shearwater flying north, five Little Gulls, a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull and two Black Terns also flying north. A Hobby was watched chasing a Swift over the sea, with the same individual hunting over the village and Thornwick Pool later in the day.

Old Fall flashes hosted two Little Stints, a Curlew Sandpiper, nine Ruff, a Greenshank, one Green Sandpiper and two Snipe; there were also 47 Golden Plovers in the same area. Thornwick Pool held a Black-tailed Godwit, two Greenshank and three Dunlin. Three Common Buzzards toured the Outer Head, as did a creamcrown Marsh Harrier, whilst at least six Sparrowhawks were present.

Three Barred Warblers were noted during the day; yesterday’s bird remained at the southern end of Old Fall Hedge, with new arrivals discovered in a hedge further east and within the Gorse Field. Other passerine migrants included 40 Whinchats, 12 Wheatear, two Redstarts, two Tree Pipits, 45 Willow Warblers, 14 Chiffchaffs, six Lesser Whitethroats, 23 Whitethroats, six Blackcaps, two Garden Warblers, eight Sedge Warblers, 17 Goldcrests, nine Spotted and five Pied Flycatchers. Large numbers of Meadow Pipits were also present, with at least 1100 observed on the Outer Head, where there were also two Corn Buntings. Migrants at Buckton included two Goldcrest, four Yellow Wagtails, five Whinchat, two Wheatear and 150 Meadow Pipits.

Another sunny day with light northerly winds. The seawatch highlights included eight Sooty and 68 Manx Shearwaters flying north, two Pintail, 14 Arctic Skuas heading south, two Yellow-legged Gulls north; 275 Meadow Pipits also came in off the sea and flew north, whilst four Grey Herons moved south.

The Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank remained in residence at Thornwick Pool, where there were also ten Ruff and two Dunlin. The flashes near Old Fall attracted a Little Stint, three Snipe, three Dunlin and a Greenshank, whilst 12 Ruff flew east over the Outer Head. Marsh Harrier and Hobby were also present, with a flock of eight Common Buzzards drifting over.

However, the headlines were grabbed by two Marsh Tits discovered near the Lighthouse during the afternoon – only the second ever Flamborough record! The Barred Warbler remained at the southern end of Old Fall Hedge, with other migrants including 15 Goldcrests, 13 Whinchats, two Spotted and one Pied Flycatcher and a Redstart. A Lesser Whitethroat near the Lighthouse showed features associated with the Siberian ‘blythi’ race.

The day started with light westerly winds and overcast conditions, although the wind had switched to a south-easterly by late afternoon. The seawatch produced a Red-necked Grebe heading south, six Sooty and 30 Manx Shearwaters moving north, a Balearic Shearwater heading in the same direction, and one Little Egret flying south.

Thornwick Pool hosted a Grey Heron, two Tufted Duck, three Teal, a Little Stint, two Dunlin, a Ruff, four Snipe and one Black-tailed Godwit. A flock of ten Ruff were on the Golf Course, as were two first-winter Yellow-legged Gulls, whilst two Little Egrets overflew Old Fall. A single Shoveler and two Teal were on Buckton Pond.

Passerine migrants included a Barred Warbler in bushes next to the Lighthouse, a Cuckoo, 17 Whinchats (with seven more at Bempton and five at Buckton), 21 Goldcrests, four Spotted and two Pied Flycatchers, four Grey Wagtails, two Redstarts and a Garden Warbler.

A light easterly wind and sunshine throughout. Seawatch highlights included seven Sooty Shearwaters flying north, one Balearic Shearwater, 220 Common Scoter, three Pomarine Skuas, 23 Arctic Skuas and two juvenile Long-tailed Skuas, all heading north, with a 1st-winter Mediterranean Gull and 1st-winter Yellow-legged Gull heading south.

Thornwick Pool attracted three Teal, single Little Egret, Ruff, Little Stint and Black-tailed Godwit together with two Dunlin. A Shoveler remained on Buckton Pond. Five Common Buzzards flew over the Outer Head, whilst the Hobby remained in the same area. Passerine migrants included nine Whinchat within the vicinity of the Lighthouse and two Pied Flycatchers (near the Lighthouse and Cliff Lane, Bempton). An additional four Whinchat and a Spotted Flycatcher were at Buckton.

A very light easterly airflow and sunshine prevailed throughout. Seawatch highlights included 379 Fulmars moving north, along with three Sooty and 33 Manx Shearwaters. Seven Pale-bellied Brent Geese also flew north. Three Pintail overflew the Headland, whilst two Little Gulls headed north and a 1st calendar-year Yellow-legged Gull went south.

The Shoveler and four Teal remained on Buckton Pond. Eight Common Buzzards drifted over Old Fall, a Ruff was present in the same area, with South Landing hosting two first-winter Mediterranean Gulls.

Passerine migrants included 14 Whinchat (including five at Buckton), two Redstarts, eight Pied Flycatchers (including two at Buckton), one Spotted Flycatcher, three Grey Wagtails and a Tree Pipit.

Another Ocean Sunfish appeared inshore, when one drifted east off Bempton Cliffs during the evening.

A light north-easterly wind, with generally overcast conditions until mid-morning and sunny intervals thereafter. Seawatch highlights included a Sooty Shearwater flying north, a dark-bellied Brent Goose moving south, two Pintail, 148 Common Scoter and two first-winter Mediterranean Gulls all north, with a first calendar-year Yellow-legged Gull heading south. An adult Yellow-legged Gull lingered on the Outer Head this morning, whilst a candidate first calendar-year Baltic Gull sporing a darvic ring was present on the Golf Course during the evening. A Ruff remained in residence at Thornwick Pool, whilst the Hobby was also seen again.

Although passerine migrants were relatively scarce, no fewer than three Barred Warblers were found; two in the Gorse Field and the other near Lighthouse Road. In addition, there were nine Whinchat, one Redstart, four Pied and one Spotted Flycatcher, a single Reed Warbler and two Garden Warblers.

Fifteen Golden Plover overflew Bempton, as did a Greenshank, whilst five Whinchat were also present. Nearby Buckton hosted two Marsh Harriers, a Merlin, a Little Owl (now rare locally) and single Spotted Flycatcher and Reed Warbler.

An overcast morning, with sunny spells during the afternoon and a light north-east wind. Seawatching produced a Black-throated Diver heading north, three Sooty and two Balearic Shearwaters, 196 Common Scoter and a first-winter Mediterranean Gull. Three Caspian Gulls were located amongst the large gull flocks, two sub-adults and a first calendar-year, whilst two Yellow-legged Gulls were also present; an adult and a first-winter.

The Hobby appeared once again over the Outer Head, a Common Sandpiper was on the rocks near Old Fall, with a Greenshank at South Landing and eight Snipe flew in off the sea. Thornwick Pool hosted three Tufted Ducks and 11 Teal.

The day’s highlight occurred at Buckton at the very start of the day, when a Nightjar appeared around the heligoland trap at dawn; a Lapland Bunting was in the same area. Additional passerine migrants included nine Whinchat, nine Wheatear, a Redstart, six Pied and one Spotted Flycatcher, two Reed Warblers, one Garden Warbler, 17 Willow Warblers, 12 Chiffchaffs, a Tree Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll. However, pride of place went to two Yellow-browed Warblers in the Selwick’s Bay area and three Barred Warblers; two in the Gorse Field and the other at Old Fall Steps.

Light north-east winds and generally overcast conditions produced an excellent day’s birding. Seawatching produced two Great Northern Divers heading north, 22 Red-throated Divers south, 12 Sooty and one Balearic Shearwater north, a Little Egret south, 226 Teal, two Pintail and 574 Common Scoters, all north. A Common Sandpiper flew south, whilst four Mediterranean Gulls moved north past the headland, with 1238 Razorbills doing the same. A first calendar-year Yellow-legged Gull was offshore, with an adult frequenting the Golf Course. A first calendar-year Caspian Gull was present in the same area and sported a green ring on its left leg, indicating yet another new individual. In addition, another candidate Baltic Gull rested on a field near the Lighthouse before flying off east.

Scarce migrants included a minimum of four Red-breasted Flycatchers (including individuals at Old Fall, Old Fall Steps & Bay Brambles), three Yellow-browed Warblers (including birds near Northcliffe and in outer head gardens), three Barred Warblers (Gorse Field, Old Fall Steps & village) and a Wryneck (Old Fall Steps). Additional passerine migrants included single Grasshopper Warbler, Reed Warbler, Tree Pipit, Crossbill, and Lapland Bunting, with 11 Pied and one Spotted Flycatcher, nine Whinchat, five Redstart and 14 Garden Warbler.

Overcast, misty conditions after light overnight rain and a light north-easterly resulted in further arrivals. The seawatch highlights included 20 Sooty and one Balearic Shearwater flying north, a Pomarine Skua heading south, a juvenile Long-tailed Skua north, and three Mediterranean and 17 Little Gulls together with 1550 Razorbills also heading north.

Five Red-breasted Flycatchers were present (two Old Fall Steps, two Old Fall, one Golf Course), with two Barred Warblers at Old Fall Steps, three Yellow-browed Warblers (Outer Head and Thornwick CP), a Wood Warbler in Old Fall, a 1st-winter Grey-headed Wagtail in a field west of the Lighthouse and a Hawfinch at Old Fall. Additional migrants included 26 Wheatear, nine Whinchat, ten Redstart, seven Pied and five Spotted Flycatchers, three Fieldfare, a Reed Warbler, 18 Garden Warbler, 16 Chiffchaff, 12 Goldcrest, a Tree Pipit and a Siskin.

Buckton highlights included a Dotterel, a Yellow-browed Warbler, four Redstart and two Garden Warblers.

Another overcast day, with a light east-north-easterly wind and occasional thick fog. Seawatching was hampered by the visibility, with seven Sooty Shearwaters moving north, two Velvet Scoters south, a Mediterranean Gull also flying south and a Little Gull flying north.

A Honey Buzzard flew south-west over Old Fall during the morning, whilst a Merlin frequented the Outer Head late on. A Wood Sandpiper also flew over Old Fall, with a first-winter Caspian Gull resting on a field near the Lighthouse.

Passerine migrants included two Barred Warblers (at Old Fall Steps and at the Gorse Field), two Yellow-browed Warblers (Outer Head gardens and Old Fall) and a Wryneck (Old Fall Hedge). Additional migrants included a Cuckoo, two Tree Pipits, a Hawfinch (Old Fall and later over the Chalk Tower) and a Lesser Redpoll, with single figures of Garden Warbler, Redstart and Pied Flycatcher.

Bempton RSPB hosted single Yellow-browed Warbler and Red-breasted Flycatcher, together with a Tree Pipit, two Redwing, three Redstart. Buckton attracted a Green Sandpiper, Fieldfare, two Yellow-browed Warblers, Tree Pipit and four Redstart.

Light onshore winds and another foggy day precluding any chance of a seawatch. Thornwick Pool attracted two Dunlin and single Common Sandpiper, Ringed Plover and Ruff. A dark morph juvenile Honey Buzzard flew south over the Outer Head at 1155hrs and provided one of the day’s highlights.

However, passerines once again provided the most interest. A Yellow-browed Warbler and a Hawfinch remained in the gardens on the Outer Head, whilst a Red-breasted Flycatcher was new in at Selwick’s Bay. The Red-breasted Flycatcher also remained at Bempton RSPB. Migrant totals included 11 Wheatears, ten Whinchat, 16 Redstarts (including four at Buckton and one at Bempton), a Reed Warbler, three Tree Pipits, 21 Siskin (including 15 at Buckton), seven Brambling and 20 Chaffinch.

A light north wind, with misty conditions and occasional thick fog. Seawatching produced a Cory’s Shearwater flying north at 0918hrs, together with four Sooty Shearwaters, two dark-bellied Brent Geese, a first calendar-year Mediterranean Gull and 123 Little Gulls also heading north.

A juvenile dark-morph Honey Buzzard appeared over the headland on several occasions, ranging between the Whelkie Wynds and the Outer Head, with a Hobby also present. Eight Ruff toured the area, whilst a Jack Snipe overflew the Gorse Field.

Two Red-breasted Flycatchers were present (including one in the Gorse Field), together with two Yellow-browed Warblers (Bay Brambles and Old Fall) and a Barred Warbler (Old Fall Steps). Migrant totals included six Tree Pipits (including one at Bempton), 19 Redstarts (including two at Bempton), 11 Whinchats, 21 Garden Warblers, four Pied and two Spotted Flycatcher and three Brambling.

However, Bempton recorded the day’s highlight, with a Little Bunting discovered along the cliffs during the morning, whilst the Red-breasted Flycatcher remained in residence.