31st July 2017

22 nets opened at 0345 with a further four opened later as the wind eased for a short while, with all 26 nets closed at 1100. A quiet end to the month with just 7 new birds of 5 species. A Morkulla (Woodcock) was flushed from a net ride at 0345 and a couple of hours later, presumably the same bird was flushed from the same spot, straight into the net, but out again before it could be reached!!!! Catching that would have saved an otherwise poor days ringing.

Afternoon will be spent preparing end of month reports and finalising the talk that is being given on the 3rd. While preparing the monthly summary it was noticed that the daily diary entry of the 12th July referred to two Kaspisk trut (Caspian Gull) flying over the Obs. This record should have referred to two Skräntärna (Caspian Tern). The diary has now been corrected!

Kay spent quiet times between net rounds painting woodwork in the bathroom and the walls behind the cooker in the kitchen.

There will be two at the Obs tonight: Chris & Kay.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Swallow Ladusvala 2
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1

Sightings
of interest
White-tailed Eagle Havsörn 1 Flying overhead – adult
Common Kestrel Tornfalk 1 Foraging
Eurasian Woodcock Morkulla 1 In the net – briefly!!!!
Whimbrel Småspov 8 Staging
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 1 Call
Common Swift Tornseglare 4 Flying around Obs
European Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 1 Foraging

30th July 2017

Restricted to 16 nets opened at 0345 due to strong winds, with some more opened as the morning progressed. Some closed at 1100 and the rest closed at 1145.

Only 14 new birds of 8 species caught.

A public guiding given to 5 adults and 2 youngsters from 1130 until 1245.

Migration watching was quiet for Kalle, Janne & Mikael, though not sure of what was seen as they left the island before I chatted to them about anything of interest though a Sandlöpare (sanderling) was mentioned as being the best bird.

Marie put another coat of paint on the wall and boarding in the hall before she & Kalle left on the 0930 ferry, with Janne & Mikael leaving at 1330.

Another guiding to 4 people will be given at around 1600 this afternoon – another short working day!!!!

There will be just Chris & Kay at the Obs tonight.

Wind: West
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 19
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Redstart Rödstjärt 2
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 2
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 3
Blue Tit Blåmes 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 2
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1

29th July 2017

All nets opened at 0345, with two closed at 0900 near the football pitch to avoid the ball from the ‘big match’ going in the wrong net!!! All the nets closed at 1100.

A total of 26 new birds of 13 species, including the 2nd Gröngöling (Green Woodpecker) of the year, exactly one year after two were caught in 2016.

Janne, Kalle & Mikael headed up to the Bredmar cliffs for migration watching before going to the south for the rest of the morning. Not yet caught up with them about how they got on.

Yesterday evening Kalle did a fantastic job of putting the door frame up at the bathroom, a job that has been outstanding for a year. This morning Marie gave a coat of paint to the wall and boarding, altogether a great improvement and a big job ‘off the list’.

A sign put up near the football pitch directing people to Badplats has already started to work and should reduce the damage to the ‘Badplats’ net caused by people walking past it.

There will be six at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay, Kalle, Marie, Janne & Mikael.

Wind: South-east
Strength: Moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 1
White Wagtail Sädesärla 2
Robin Rödhake 1
Blackbird Koltrast 5
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 4
Whitethroat Törnsångare 2
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 2
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 2
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 2

Sightings
of interest
Osprey Fiskgjuse 1 Migrating
Common Swift Tornseglare 15 Flying overhead
European Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 1 Different from the ringed bird

28th July 2017

All nets opened at 0345 in overcast and calm conditions with a very light wind from NE which gradually moved to the S through the morning. All nets closed at 1100.

a total of 23 new birds of 15 species including a Rörsångare (Reed Warbler). Yet another poor day for migration watching for Kalle who is trying his best but being frustrated by the wind direction.

Marie has put a 2nd coat of oil on the two main tables and benches, including soaking the feet in oil to help prolong their life.

There will be six at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay, Kalle, Marie, Janne and Mikael.

Wind: North-east becoming S
Strength: Light, almost calm, 1-3 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Overcast, 8/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Wryneck Göktyta 1
Robin Rödhake 2
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Reed Warbler Rörsångare 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 4
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 3
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Goldfinch Steglits 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 2


Sightings
of interest

Grey Heron Gråhäger 7 Flying overhead
Whimbrel Småspov 4 Flying overhead
Common Swift Tornseglare 5 Flying around Obs

27th July 2017

25 nets opened at 0345, with some opened later as the wind changed. All nets closed at 1100 with 34 new birds of 14 species. Among them were the first young Grå flugsnappare (Spotted Flycatcher) and Svartvit flugsnappare (Pied Flycatcher) of the year.

Migration watching remained poor with Kalle spending an un-rewarding period watching for wader passage before heading off through the woods for an equally quiet time!!!

Trimming can be put off no longer, so that is the job for the afternoon along with more progress on preparing for next weeks talk to island residents.

There will be four at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay, Kalle & Marie.

Wind: North-east
Strength: Strong, 8-10 m/s
Temperature: 19
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Wryneck Göktyta 1
Swallow Ladusvala 1
White Wagtail Sädesärla 1
Robin Rödhake 1
Blackbird Koltrast 3
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 4
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 11
Spotted Flycatcher Grå flugsnappare 2
Pied Flycatcher Svartvit flugsnappare 1
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 5
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 On Bredmar pond
Wood Sandpiper Grönbena 1 On Bredmar pond
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 1 Saltmar

26th July 2017

Restricted net opening due to strong wind with 22 nets opened at 0345, some closed at 1100 and the rest at 1145.

20 new birds of 10 species including the first young Sävsångare (Sedge Warbler) of the autumn.

Migration watching was again very poor with Kalle abandoning any hope of seeing a movement of waders due to a strong NE wind – unfavourable for here.

A guided talk given to 9 adults from 1130 until 1230.

There will be four at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay, Kalle & Marie.

Wind: North-east
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Swallow Ladusvala 1
Robin Rödhake 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Sedge Warbler Sävsångare 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 7
Greenfinch Grönfink 4
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1


Sightings
of interest
Osprey Fiskgjuse 1 Seen north of Bredmar
Eurasian Hobby Lärkfalk 1 Foraging around Obs
Common Snipe Enkelbeckasin 3 Adult with two young flew from near Bredmar
Common Cuckoo Gök 1 Flying around
Common Swift Tornseglare 6 Flying around, entering nest boxes

25th July 2017

All nets opened at 0345 and closed at 1100 with 20 new birds of 11 species. Also caught was another young Göktyta (Wryneck) ringed on the 2nd July in a nest box in the north. This is the second in two days out of a brood of 6 birds. Also caught was a re-trap Ärtsångare (Lesser Whitethroat) which was ringed as a 2cy bird on the 6th May 2013, making it 6 years old.

Migration watching for Kalle & Janne was poor, while Marie remains largely out of action due to a problem with her foot.

This afternoon Marie noticed a Lärkfalk (Hobby) catch a svala over the Obs which seemed to go down to the football pitch. Marie, Chris & Kay went down to investigate. No Lärkfalk but an adult Enkelbekasin (Common Snipe) with two well grown young feeding at the far end of the football pitch. The young looked almost as large as the adult and were presumed able to fly but ran into cover every time the adult sensed danger and ‘froze’, each time the young re-appearing after a couple of minutes before all three walked out of view. A fantastic breeding record for the site and a reward for all the males persistent displaying throughout the spring!!!!

Bike tyre changed between net rounds and ‘work in progress’ on replacing a chain on one of the other bikes!!!

Need to trim the net rides soon, maybe today.

Janne left the island on the afternoon ferry.

There will be four at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay, Kalle and Marie.

Wind: North-east
Strength: Moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Blackbird Koltrast 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 3
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 3
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Red-backed Shrike Törnskata 1
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 3
Greenfinch Grönfink 4
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Sparvhök 1 Foraging
Common Cuckoo Gök 1 Staging
Common Swift Tornseglare 10 Feeding around Obs
Common Swift Tornseglare 40 flying overhead
Eurasian Wryneck Göktyta 1 Re-trapped young bird from nest box

24th July 2017

21 nets opened at 0345 and closed at 1100, with Janne helping when Kay went off the island mid-morning to shop.

A total of 17 new birds of 10 species including a Gröngöling (Green Woodpecker), the 12th ever caught here. A ringed Göktyta (Wryneck) was caught, one of the brood of 6 chicks ringed in the far north of the island on 2nd July.

Kalle & Marie arrive at some time this afternoon, giving five at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay, Janne, Kalle & Marie.

Wind: North-east
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s slowly decreasing
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Cloudy, 6-7/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 1
Robin Rödhake 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 2
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 6
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 1


Sightings
of interest

Common Swift Tornseglare 10 Feeding around Obs & entering boxes
Two-barred Crossbill Bändelkorsnäbb 1 Flying overhead
Common Crossbill Mindre korsnäbb 5 Flying overhead
Common Rosefinch Rosenfink 1 Heard at Bredmar

23rd July 2017

All nets opened at 0345 in almost calm conditions, with the wind increasing slightly through the morning. Some nets closed at 1100 with the rest closed at 1145.

A total of 16 new birds of 10 species including the first fledged Rosenfink (Rosefinch) of the year.

A guiding to 6 adults given at 1130 until 1300.

Bosse & Janne spent time on the cliffs at Bredmar before heading off to Jutvik & Saltmar – another quiet morning for wader migration!!!

Bosse leaves on the late ferry so there will be three at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay & Janne.

Wind: North-east
Strength: Light, increasing: 1-3 m/s
Temperature: 19
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

White Wagtail Sädesärla 2
Wren Gärdsmyg 1
Robin Rödhake 1
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 4
Greenfinch Grönfink 3
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Red Knot Kustsnäppa 44 Migrating SW
Bar-tailed Godwit Myrspov 73 Migrating SW
Whimbrel Småspov 6 Staging
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 1 Staging
Common Swift Tornseglare 15 Flying over Obs, feeding & visiting nest boxes
European Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 2 1cy birds, flying overhead

22nd July 2017

All 30 nets opened at 0345 and closed at 1100 with 24 new birds of 12 species including 6 Svarthätta (Blackcap) one of the highest day captures for this species in July over the last 30 years.

Migration watching by Janne & Bosse (the sleepers!!!) in the south, though quiet, produced a movement of tärna (terns), a mix of waders and two Svarthakedopping (Horned Grebe) migrating SW.

The Gröngöling seen yesterday was still present through the morning.

There will be 4 at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay, Janne & Bosse.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Light, 1-3 m/s increasing
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Swallow Ladusvala 2
White Wagtail Sädesärla 1
Robin Rödhake 2
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Whitethroat Törnsångare 1
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 6
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 5
Red-backed Shrike Törnskata 1
Chaffinch Bofink 2
Redpoll cabaret Gråsiska 1


Sightings
of interest

Horned Grebe Svarthakedopping 2 Migrating SW
Dunlin Kärrsnäppa 3 Migrating SW
Bar-tailed Godwit Myrspov 90 Migrating SW
Spotted Redshank Svartsnäppa 1 Migrating SW
Wood Sandpiper Grönbena 1 Jutvik
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 3 Jutvik
Arctic/Common Tern Silver/ Fisktärna 130 Migrating SW
Common Cuckoo Gök 1 Flying overhead
Common Swift Tornseglare 20 Flying overhead
European Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 1 Flying overhead
Common House Martin Hussvala 50 Feeding

21st July 2017

22 nets opened at 0345 and closed at 1100 with 12 new birds of 9 species. Notable was only one warbler species caught – an Ärtsångare (Lesser Whitethroat).

Very quiet for birds today

There will be three at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay & Bosse. An update – Janne arrived!!! – so Chris, Kay & the chuckle brothers!!!

Wind: East
Strength: Light, increasing, 1-5 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

White Wagtail Sädesärla 2
Wren Gärdsmyg 1
Robin Rödhake 3
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Red-backed Shrike Törnskata 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1

Sightings
of interest
Eurasian Hobby Lärkfalk 1 Flying overhead
Eurasian Oystercatcher Strandskata 24 Migrating SW
Common Swift Tornseglare 10 Flying round Obs, entering nest boxes
European Green Woodpecker Gröngöling 1 Flying overhead

20th July 2017

22 nets opened at 0415 and closed at 1100 with 17 new birds of 11 species including the first fledged Ladusvala (Swallow) and Brunsiska (Lesser Redpoll) chicks of the year.

A quiet day for the rest of the day while Chris rests his back.

Mark leaves the island in the afternoon, to give just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind: North-east
Strength: Light, 1-3 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Swallow Ladusvala 3
Wren Gärdsmyg 1
Wheatear Stenskvätta 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 2
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 3
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 1
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Redpoll cabaret Brunsiska 1

19th July 2017

18 nets opened at 0415, with some closed at 1100 and the rest at 1145.

A total of 15 new birds of 10 species, the best of which was a Bändelkorsnäbb (Two-barred Crossbill), a second year female. Only the 6th of the species ever caught at the Obs, the other five all being in the autumn of 2013.

Though the nets were once more run only by Kay, Chris was able to give a guided talk at 1130 to 13 people.

In the afternoon, Kay ringed a further 4 birds: Sädesärla (White Wagtail) chicks in Tore’s fishing shed.

There will be three at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay & Mark.

Wind: West
Strength: Moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Wryneck Göktyta 1
White Wagtail Sädesärla 4
Wren Gärdsmyg 1
Redstart Rödstjärt 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Whitethroat Törnsångare 2
Blackcap Svarthätta 3
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Two-barred Crossbill Bändelkorsnäbb 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 2

18th July 2017

13 nets opened at 0415 with two more opened at 0515. All 15 nets closed at 1100 with 13 new birds of 7 species caught.

Nets run by just Kay again, with Chris still having an injured back, spending all day in bed!!!

Three at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay & Mark.

Wind: North-west
Strength: Strong – decreasing , 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Clear, 0/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 4
Greenfinch Grönfink 4
Goldfinch Steglits 1

17th July 2017

14 nets opened at 0430 with a further net opened an hour later, to give 15 nets operated until 1100 in a strong NW wind.

7 new birds of 5 species caught.

Nets were run by Kay only as Chris pulled muscles in his back on Sunday and was not able to stand up all day.

There was three at the Obs: Chris, Kay and Mark.

Wind: North-west
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 2
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Goldfinch Steglits 1

16th July

28 nets opened at 0415 and the remaining two opened a little later as the wind decreased slightly.

A total of 14 new birds of 9 species including the first young Härmsångare (Icterine Warbler) of the season.

A guided talk given to seven adults and one young person.

There will be three at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay & Mark.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Robin Rödhake 1
Song Thrush Taltrast 2
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Blackcap Svarthätta 2
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 2
Sightings
of interest
Whimbrel Småspov 10 Migrating SW
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 14 Migrating SW
Common Swift Tornseglare 30 Feeding over Obs

15th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 and closed at 1100 with 14 new birds of 9 species. The last couple of days have produced seven Svarthätta (Blackcap) including a number of recently fledged birds.

Very quiet for birds generally, though another Gök (Cuckoo) was seen today. The Tornseglare (Swift) continue to investigate the nest boxes, with birds now having entered and remained inside 6 of the 7 boxes during the last two weeks. Birds have been staying in the boxes for a minimum of about 30 minutes, with some remaining inside all night and for several hours during the day.

There will be three at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay & Mark.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Light becoming moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Robin Rödhake 2
Reed Warbler Rörsångare 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 3
Spotted Flycatcher Grå flugsnappare 1
Great Tit Talgoxe 2
Chaffinch Bofink 2
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Goldfinch Steglits 1


Sightings
of interest

Common Cuckoo Gök 1 Staging

14th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 and closed at 1100 with 23 new birds of 13 species; a better morning than yesterday!

Migration of waders pas the island was still almost nil.

Niklas, Jon & Mikael left the island on the early afternoon ferry to give just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Almost calm to light, 1-3 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20 km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Wren Gärdsmyg 1
Robin Rödhake 4
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 1
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Reed Warbler Rörsångare 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 2
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 3
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 4
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 2
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Goldfinch Steglits 1
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1


Sightings
of interest
Northern Goshawk Duvhök 1 Foraging
Bar-tailed Godwit Myrspov 2 Migrating SW
Whimbrel Småspov 4 Staging, Bredmar
Eurasian Curlew Storspov 12 Migrating SW
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Staging, Bredmar
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 2 Flying overhead
Common Cuckoo Gök 2 Staging
Common Swift Tornseglare 15 Feeding & display over Obs
Greenish Warbler Lundsångare 1 Singing just south of Obs

13th July 2017

Restricted net opening due to strong winds, but 12 opened at 0415 with 16 open by the time netting finished at 1100.

A poor day with just 8 new birds of 6 species, highlight being a Sävsångare (Sedge Warbler).

Migration watching for waders was equally poor, if not worse!!!

Janne leaves the island later today, so there will be five at the station tonight: Chris, Kay, Jon, Mikael & Niklas.

Wind: North-west
Strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s decreasing slightly
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Robin Rödhake 1
Sedge Warbler Sävsångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 3
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 1
Goldfinch Steglits 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Whimbrel Småspov 2 Staging, Bredmar
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Staging, Bredmar
Common Swift Tornseglare 15 Foraging around Obs

12th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415, with some closed at 1100 and the rest at 1145. Started in light winds which increased through the morning.

Another quiet morning with just 14 new birds of 8 species, with six Ärtsångare (Lesser Whitethroat) among them, nearly all young birds.

Despite the 0415 start Kay & Chris were not the first up and about. By that time all of the others were up, with Jon, Niklas & Mikael having left the Obs by 0400 to do a migration watch at Vaderbunken. Sadly their efforts were not rewarded with any passage of waders. In fact the best birds of the day (SO FAR!!) were two Kaspisk trut (Caspian Tern) seen by Janne as they flew over the Obs.

A guiding given at 1130 to five adults and five children.

Another attempt at migration watching will be made later in the day, with a better chance of success now that the wind has increased a bit.

There will be six at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay, Jon, Niklas, Mikael and Janne.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Moderate increasing, 5-8 m/s
Temperature: Temperature, 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Robin Rödhake 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 6
Whitethroat Törnsångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 2
Siskin Grönsiska 1


Sightings
of interest

Caspian
Tern
Skräntärna 2 Flying over Obs

11th July 2017

Opening of nets delayed until 0630 due to forecast heavy rain, which actually was only light. 23 nets opened at 0630 and the rest opened 1 hour later with all nets closed at 1100, with only occasional very light showers.

It was a quiet morning with just 8 new birds of 7 species, with the first Gransångare (Chiffchaff) young of the year caught.

There was an addition to last nights overnight numbers with a late decision to strengthen the squad by the addition of veteran striker, Janne, who arrived on the mid-afternoon boat.

Despite a strong “migration squad” the morning was quiet, with light northerly winds only slowly increasing and going to the NE – not great conditions. Hoping for better later in the day and tomorrow.

There will be 6 at the Obs overnight: Chris, Kay, Janne, Jon, Niklas and Mikael.

Wind: North, going NE
Strength: Light increasing to moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Overcast, 8/8
Precipitation: Showers

Birds
ringed
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Chiffchaff Gransångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Goldfinch Steglits 1

10th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 and closed at 1100 with 21 new birds of 13 species. Best birds were two Stenknäck (Hawfinch), both birds born this year and the only ones trapped at the Obs during July, the earliest in other years being in mid-August. These birds are the 18th and 19th trapped here.

There will be five at the Obs tonight: Chris, Kay, Niklas, Jon and Mikael.

Wind: South-west
Strength: Moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 16
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud cover: Clear, 0/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Dunnock Järnsparv 1
Robin Rödhake 2
Redstart Rödstjärt 1
Wheatear Stenskvätta 2
Blackbird Koltrast 2
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 2
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 2
Great Tit Talgoxe 2
Red-backed Shrike Törnskata 1
Hawfinch Stenknäck 2
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Grey Heron Gråhäger 3 Staging, Bredmar
Whimbrel Småspov 5 Staging, Bredmar
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Staging, Bredmar

9th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 in calm and overcast conditions, that remained that way until 1000 when sun appeared briefly. Some nets closed at 1100 and the rest at 1145.

A total of 17 new birds of 9 species, including the first fledglings for Rödhake (Robin) and Trädgårdssangåre (Garden Warbler).

A guided talk given to 4 people at 1130 until 1300.

Two of the Tornseglare boxes are regularly occupied, with a pair present in one of them throughout the morning and afternoon, with a single bird in the other. A total of 4 of the seven boxes have been entered by birds now.

There will be just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind:
Wind strength: Calm, <1 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Moderate, 4-10km
Cloud Cover: Overcast, 8/8
Precipitation: Dry

Birds
ringed
Robin Rödhake 2
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 1
Wheatear Stenskvätta 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 5
Whitethroat Törnsångare 2
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Wood Warbler Grönsångare 1
Spotted Flycatcher Grå flugsnappare 1
Great Tit Talgoxe 3


Sightings
of interest

Grey Heron Gråhäger 6 Migrating SW
Grey Heron Gråhäger 2 Staging, Bredmar
Common Snipe Enkelbeckasin 1 Bredmar
Whimbrel Småspov 10 Staging
Eurasian Curlew Storspov 1 Heard
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 2 Staging, Bredmar
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 2 Migrating SW
Common Swift Tornseglare 50 Foraging, Bredmar

8th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 and closed at 1100 with just 7 new birds of 6 species, including the first Björktrast (Fieldfare) young of the year.

A very quiet day for birds despite good netting conditions.

There will be just Chris & Kay at the obs tonight.

Wind: South-west backing South
Wind strength: Light, 1-3 m/s decreasing to calm
Temperature: 14
Visibility: Moderate 4-10 km, becoming hazy
Cloud Cover: Overcast, 8/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Fieldfare Björktrast 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 1
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Sightings
of interest
Common Snipe Enkelbeckasin 1 Flushed from football pitch
Whimbrel Småspov 7 Staging, Bredmar
Eurasian Curlew Storspov 1 Heard
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Staging, Bredmar
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 1 Heard
Common Swift Tornseglare 11 Feeding
Eurasian Wryneck Göktyta 1 Heard, Bredmar

7th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 in light winds that increased only slightly as the morning progressed. Some nets closed at 1100 with the rest closed at 1145. A total of 21 new birds of 12 species.

A booked guided talk to 3 adults and 4 children given at 1130.

Afternoon will be spent trimming the grass on paths and net rides.

Göran arrived on the last ferry yesterday and stayed overnight to give three at the Obs last night. He leaves on the afternoon ferry today, so there will be just Chris & Kay overnight.

Wind: South-west
Wind strength: Light, 1-3 m/s
Temperature: 16
Visibility: Very good, >20km
Cloud Cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

House Martin Hussvala 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 4
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Spotted Flycatcher Grå flugsnappare 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 3
Great Tit Talgoxe 2
Siskin Grönsiska 1
Linnet Hämpling 2
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 2
Reed Bunting Sävsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Grey Heron Gråhäger 6 Staging, Bredmar
Whimbrel Småspov 1 Heard
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 2 Staging, Bredmar
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 1 Flying overhead
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 1 Agitated, Bredmar
Common Swift Tornseglare 4 Including three in nest boxes

6th July 2017

28 nets opened at 0415 and closed at 1100, with 26 new birds of 16 species including the first fledged Näktergal (Thrush Nightingale) of the year.

Otherwise quiet for birds though five Mindre körsnäbb (Common Crossbill) were observed feeding in the tree just north of the Obs.

There will be just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind: North-west, backing SW and dropping
Wind strength: Moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 16
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud Cover: Clear, 0/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

White Wagtail Sädesärla 1
Wren Gärdsmyg 1
Robin Rödhake 1
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 2
Blackbird Koltrast 3
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Reed Warbler Rörsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Whitethroat Törnsångare 5
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 2
Blue Tit Blåmes 1
Great Tit Talgoxe 1
Nuthatch Nötväcka 1
Linnet Hämpling 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 2


Sightings
of interest

Whimbrel Småspov 1 Staging, Bredmar
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 1 Flying overhead
Common Swift Tornseglare 5 Three nest boxes have now had birds inside
Common Crossbill Mindre körsnäbb 5 Feeding, Bredmar

5th July 2017

Our Manx National Day today, so thoughts of home (and days off!!).

All nets opened at 0415 in a light north-west wind that backed to SW and increased slightly as the morning progressed. Some nets closed at 1100 and the rest at 1145. A total of 13 new birds of 12 species. Our first Grå flugsnappare (Spotted Flycatcher) for a while and also a Sävsångare (Sedge Warbler). This bird had very fresh plumage and tongue-spots but was clearly not a bird of this year, so was aged as 2cy but not sure how the feathering was still so fresh – possibly a very late migrant???

Tornseglare still investigating the nest boxes. One was present inside the box early on and visited by a second bird.

Public guiding given from 1130 to 1300 to 5 adults and 4 children.

There will be Chris & Kay at the Obs tonight.

Wind: North-west, backing to SW
Wind strength: Light becoming moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 16
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud Cover: Partly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

White Wagtail Sädesärla 1
Thrush Nightingale Näktergal 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Sedge Warbler Sävsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Whitethroat Törnsångare 2
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Spotted Flycatcher Grå flugsnappare 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 1
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Bredmar
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 3 Flying overhead
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 1 Agitated, Bredmar

4th July 2017

All nets opened at 0415 in almost calm conditions with the wind increasing slightly as the morning progressed. All nets closed at 1100.

A total of 27 new birds of 12 species including many young birds but also a couple more adult Härmsångare (Icterine Warbler), overall taking the total for the year over 3,000 new birds.

A spectacular gathering of Tornseglare (Common Swift) over the island early in the morning with an estimated 800+ birds feeding in two large groups, one over the lighthouse/village area and one north of Bredmar. Birds from both groups feeding very low over the Obs – not sure how they missed the nets, but they did!!

There will be just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind: North-west
Wind strength: Slight becoming moderate, 4-7 m/s
Temperature: 17
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud Cover: Prtly cloudy, 3-5/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

House Martin Hussvala 1
White Wagtail Sädesärla 2
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 2
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 3
Marsh Tit Entita 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 7
Great Tit Talgoxe 3
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 2
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 3


Sightings
of interest

Common Snipe Enkelbeckasin 1 Flying overhead
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 3 Migrating SW – three single sightings
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 1 In Bredmar
Parasitic Skua Kustlabb 2 Flying west low over the Obs.
Common Swift Tornseglare 800+ Feding over the island
Eurasian Wryneck Göktyta 1 Calling, Bredmar

3rd July 2017

Due to the strong winds there was restricted net opening, with just 14 nets opened at 0415, reducing to just 11 by the time netting finished at 1100 as the wind increased to very strong, gusting to 14 m/s.

Only 11 new birds caught, of 9 species.

There will be just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind: South-west
Wind strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s increasing
Temperature: 15
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud Cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Wheatear Stenskvätta 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 2
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Chiffchaff Gransångare 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 2
Nuthatch Nötväcka 1
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 1


Sightings
of interest

Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 2 Flying overhead
Parasitic Skua Kustlabb 1 Flying past Obs – dark-phase

2nd July 2017

All nets opened at 0415, some closed at 1100 and the rest at 1145. A total of 22 new birds trapped of 17 species, including the first fledged Stenskvätta (Wheatear) of the year.

A guided talk was given to seven people, lasting over 90 minutes – a good level of interest shown by everyone, really enjoyable session!!!

In the afternoon the last three nest boxes of the year were visited – two broods of Talgoxe (Great Tit) produced 11 more birds and the final box was a great reward of 6 young and healthy Göktyta (Wryneck) and an adult – 7 birds in total. A great way to finish checking all the boxes we could find on the island (240 boxes). This gives 40 new birds of 18 species for the day.

To top it all we now have Tornseglare going into and staying in two of the nest boxes!

End of week reports still to do then it might just be time for a drink!

Wind: South-west
Wind strength: Light, 1-3 m/s
Temperature: 18
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud Cover: Almost clear, 1-2/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Wryneck Göktyta 7
House Martin Hussvala 1
Wheatear Stenskvätta 1
Blackbird Koltrast 1
Song Thrush Taltrast 1
Icterine Warbler Härmsångare 1
Lesser Whitethroat Ärtsångare 1
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blackcap Svarthätta 1
Willow Warbler Lövsångare 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 1
Great Tit Talgoxe 12
Nuthatch Nötväcka 1
Tree Sparrow Pilfink 3
Chaffinch Bofink 2
Greenfinch Grönfink 2
Goldfinch Steglits 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 2

Sightings
of interest
Common Teal Kricka 1 Female, flushed from Bredmar reeds
Velvet Scoter Svärta 7 Flew over Obs
Horned Grebe Svarthakedopping 2 Pair without chicks, Norrhamn
Whimbrel Småspov 1 Heard overhead
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Staging, Bredmar
Common Greenshank Gluttsnäppa 3 Flying overhead
Parasitic Skua Kustlabb 1 Dark phase, being mobbed by terns, West harbour
Common Swift Tornseglare 5 Flying around Obs, two entering different nest boxes
Eurasian Wryneck Göktyta 2 Calling, Bredmar

1st July 2017

22 nets opened at 0645 after the very strong winds from yesterday finally started to decrease. Not possible to open all nets and the 22 in operation were all closed at 1100.

A pleasing total of 30 new birds of 10 species including two more recently fledged Törnsångare (Common Whitethroat). Range of end of month jobs to do this afternoon.

There will be just Chris & Kay at the Obs overnight.

Wind: North-east
Wind strength: Strong, 8-13 m/s
Temperature: 15
Visibility: Good, 10-20km
Cloud Cover: Overcast 8/8
Precipitation: Dry


Birds
ringed

Whitethroat Törnsångare 2
Garden Warbler Trädgårdsångare 1
Blue Tit Blåmes 4
Great Tit Talgoxe 3
Chaffinch Bofink 1
Greenfinch Grönfink 12
Siskin Grönsiska 2
Linnet Hämpling 1
Scarlet Rosefinch Rosenfink 1
Yellowhammer Gulsparv 3

Sightings
of interest
Green Sandpiper Skogssnäppa 1 Staging, Bredmar
Common Sandpiper Drillsnäppa 1 Agitated, Bredmar
Fieldfare Björktrast 2 Feeding on football pitch
Eurasian Siskin Grönsiska 6 Presumed family party