Early spring migrants survive cold snap!

Day two of the Siberian winds and snow showers saw the beach and fields with a dusting of snow and ice. Offshore the sea raged with the gale force winds. Despite this parties comprising 94 Dark-bellied Brent Geese headed north for their breeding grounds in the Russian Arctic. A few (42) rested a while in the fields behind the beach. Bobbing amongst the sea swells today were 145 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Guillemot, 3 Razorbills, a Red-thoated Diver, a very smart Scandinavian Lesser Black-backed Gull (race intermedius) and a drake Velvet Scoter. Moving north were 25 Gannet, a Black-throated Diver, 2 Curlew, 4 Kittiwake, an adult Mediterranean Gull and plenty of Common Gulls.

Away from the beach, the third Black Redstart of the year was found in the horse paddocks. Despite the cold wind and snow showers, this early migrant was feeding on insects along with a Robin, at least 5 Mistle Thrush, a Redwing and 8 Song Thrushes. Nearby a Raven 'cronked' and the first two Bullfinches of the year were found.