1. 22nd October 2012 - Trapped and Ringed = Pallas's Warbler and Red-breasted Flycatcher (supporting cast of Fieldfare, Reed Warbler and lots of common migrants - 147 birds ringed, a new site record)
2. 23rd October 2012 - Trapped and Ringed = Dusky Warbler (supporting cast of Ring Ouzel, Woodcock and lots of common migrants - 134 birds ringed)
So back to today. We only caught 13 birds, however 1 Common Rosefinch and 2 Yellow-browed Warblers can't be grumbled at (see the photos below)! The first Yellow-browed Warbler appeared fairly dull, but the second one was a screamer of a bird! The Rosefinch was typically 'grotty', but nice to see nevertheless. Reminiscent of a cross between Corn Bunting and Greenfinch!
Other notables included the first migrant Redwing and Song Thrush of the autumn caught. We also had Brambling over, had a (migrant) Great Spotted Woodpecker, a couple of singing Chiffchaff and another couple of Yellow-browed Warblers in addition to the 2 trapped - probably at least 9 in the immediate area, and a Spotted Flycatcher trapped before I arrived, and Snow Bunting over that I didn't get. There was also a Red-breasted Flycatcher and Barred Warbler nearby. Quite a few Wigeon and Teal flying over with a few Snipe, Dunlin and Golden Plover about.
Was a great day - thanks to all involved. You can get regular updates from Whitburn and the ringing activities on Ade's blog: 'Souter Bird Observatory'.
Common Rosefinch - 1st Year bird (Andy Walker)
Common Rosefinch - 1st Year bird (Andy Walker)
Common Rosefinch - 1st Year bird (Andy Walker)
Yellow-browed Warbler (first bird) (Andy Walker)
Yellow-browed Warbler (first bird) (Andy Walker)
Yellow-browed Warbler (second bird) (Andy Walker)
