Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A smart male Redstart in the Entrance Bushes was the pick of the migrants with at least three Wheatear and a couple of Willow Warbler also on site. Overhead five Swallow and four Sand Martin and the year's first Osprey, which flew over the spit and up the estuary late afternoon, being seen off Exminster 20 minutes later.
Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond and counts from the estuary included 16 Turnstone, eight Ringed Plover, two Dunlin, two Greenshank and a Dark-bellied Brent Goose.
Wildlife News: The Sand Crocus flowered briefly during a sunny period early afternoon with four Peacock and a Comma also enjoying the rays.
Sunday, 31 March 2019
Saturday, 30 March 2019
Saturday 30th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The first two Willow Warbler of the year were welcome migrants with three Blackcap and a Wheatear on site, with two Sand Martin and two Siskin overhead. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond, six Sandwich Tern were offshore and counts from the estuary included 136 Oystercatcher, eight Ringed Plover, four Bar-tailed Godwit, two Sanderling and single Dunlin and Greenshank.
The first two Willow Warbler of the year were welcome migrants with three Blackcap and a Wheatear on site, with two Sand Martin and two Siskin overhead. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond, six Sandwich Tern were offshore and counts from the estuary included 136 Oystercatcher, eight Ringed Plover, four Bar-tailed Godwit, two Sanderling and single Dunlin and Greenshank.
Blackcap - Alan Keatley
Wildlife News: The Grey Seal was again on a pontoon in the estuary and the Sand Crocus flowers opened from 10.30. Butterflies included a Red Admiral, two Orange-tip and two Comma with a Green Longhorn moth also on the wing.Friday, 29 March 2019
Friday 29th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Another foggy morning followed by clear blue skies and the same mix of birds. Four Sandwich Tern was the highest count so far this year with 52 Oystercatcher the peak on a low high tide. Elsewhere 12 Great-crested Grebe were offshore with two Shoveler on the Main Pond and a Green Woodpecker in Greenland Lake. The latter species have been audible offsite for most of the year but have rarely made it into the recording area.
Ringing News: This Turnstone on Warren Point on Wednesday had been ringed on the island of Jomfruland, Norway on 23/8/18, 1238 km NE of the Warren.
Another foggy morning followed by clear blue skies and the same mix of birds. Four Sandwich Tern was the highest count so far this year with 52 Oystercatcher the peak on a low high tide. Elsewhere 12 Great-crested Grebe were offshore with two Shoveler on the Main Pond and a Green Woodpecker in Greenland Lake. The latter species have been audible offsite for most of the year but have rarely made it into the recording area.
Ringing News: This Turnstone on Warren Point on Wednesday had been ringed on the island of Jomfruland, Norway on 23/8/18, 1238 km NE of the Warren.
Turnstone - Lee Collins
Thursday, 28 March 2019
Thursday 28th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The fog didn't lift until 10am but failed to drop in any influx of migrants, an early Yellow Wagtail was overhead with three Rook and a Siskin but again no hirundines. Elsewhere a low high tide saw 22 Turnstone, nine Ringed Plover, four Red-breasted Merganser, three Dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Dunlin in the estuary, the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond and two Blackcap were on site.
Wildlife News: Once it warmed up insects were again out in numbers with singles of Orange-tip and Comma on the wing with at least eight Peacock and four Speckled Wood. The first Painted Nomad Bee Nomada furcata of the year was at a large colony of Yellow-legged Bee Andrena flavipes on the Car Park roundabout, sadly the verge was cut today removing many of their nectar sources. Elsewhere a large bull Grey Seal in the estuary and at least 20 Barrel Jellyfish were washed up on the tideline.
The fog didn't lift until 10am but failed to drop in any influx of migrants, an early Yellow Wagtail was overhead with three Rook and a Siskin but again no hirundines. Elsewhere a low high tide saw 22 Turnstone, nine Ringed Plover, four Red-breasted Merganser, three Dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Dunlin in the estuary, the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond and two Blackcap were on site.
Teal - Alan Keatley
Wildlife News: Once it warmed up insects were again out in numbers with singles of Orange-tip and Comma on the wing with at least eight Peacock and four Speckled Wood. The first Painted Nomad Bee Nomada furcata of the year was at a large colony of Yellow-legged Bee Andrena flavipes on the Car Park roundabout, sadly the verge was cut today removing many of their nectar sources. Elsewhere a large bull Grey Seal in the estuary and at least 20 Barrel Jellyfish were washed up on the tideline.
Comma - Luke Harman
Sand Crocus - Alan Keatley
Painted Nomad Bee - Alan Keatley
Wednesday, 27 March 2019
Wednesday 27th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Another quiet day with clear blue skies, almost June like except for the chilling northerly wind. Counts from the estuary were disappointing but birds were regularly disturbed by visitor traffic to a second boat moored in the Saltmarsh all ignoring the voluntary exclusion zone. Totals included 48 Curlew, 28 Turnstone, 24 Redshank, 12 Ringed Plover, five Greenshank, three Bar-tailed Godwit, a Knot and an Eider.
Elsewhere two Sandwich Tern were offshore, the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond and migrants were limited to six Wheatear on site and single figures of Chaffinch and Meadow Pipit overhead.
Wildlife News: Another great day for the Sand Crocus and spring invertebrates, the highlight being the first Black Oil Beetle for the Recording Area. Other records included three Dark-edged Beefly, a Comma, a steady eastwards passage of dispersing queen bumblebees along the Dune Ridge and a Tree Bumblebee investigating a new nestbox.
Another quiet day with clear blue skies, almost June like except for the chilling northerly wind. Counts from the estuary were disappointing but birds were regularly disturbed by visitor traffic to a second boat moored in the Saltmarsh all ignoring the voluntary exclusion zone. Totals included 48 Curlew, 28 Turnstone, 24 Redshank, 12 Ringed Plover, five Greenshank, three Bar-tailed Godwit, a Knot and an Eider.
Elsewhere two Sandwich Tern were offshore, the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond and migrants were limited to six Wheatear on site and single figures of Chaffinch and Meadow Pipit overhead.
Chiffchaff - Lee Collins
Wildlife News: Another great day for the Sand Crocus and spring invertebrates, the highlight being the first Black Oil Beetle for the Recording Area. Other records included three Dark-edged Beefly, a Comma, a steady eastwards passage of dispersing queen bumblebees along the Dune Ridge and a Tree Bumblebee investigating a new nestbox.
Dark-edged Beefly - Lee Collins
Tuesday, 26 March 2019
Tuesday 26th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The Barnacle Goose remained in the saltmarsh with 16 Dark-bellied Brent Geese with 280 Oystercatcher, 24 Turnstone, 15 Ringed Plover, five Sanderling and three Eider also in the estuary. Elsewhere three Pale-bellied Brent Geese flew in off with a Wheatear and Goldcrest on site.
Wildlife News: The sunny weather saw five butterfly species on the wing; Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Speckled Wood and the first Comma and Orange-tip of the year. Also on the wing four bumblebee species including the first Common Carder of the year. In Greenland Lake two Snake's-head Fritillary were in flower with Sand Crocus continuing to bloom.
Snake's-head Fritillary
Monday, 25 March 2019
Monday 25th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The Barnacle Goose made a surprise reappearance in the Bight early morning with a small flock of Brent Geese, also in the estuary 185 Curlew, 40 Redshank, 26 Turnstone, six Greenshank, three Eider, two Sanderling and a Ringed Plover.
Overhead a Red Kite flew east at 11.30 with 120 Chaffinch and the first Grey Wagtail of the year heading the same way earlier in the day. Elsewhere a Sandwich Tern and a Red-throated Diver were offshore and four Wheatear were on site.
Wildlife News: The Sand Crocus put on a good show once the sun came out early afternoon with a new population of c200 flowering plants discovered in the Wryneck Plain. The sun also brought out the first Dark-edged Beefly and Small Tortoiseshell of the year, both in the Entrance Bushes. Elsewhere a Grey Seal was off the seawall and a Fox was by the hide.
The Barnacle Goose made a surprise reappearance in the Bight early morning with a small flock of Brent Geese, also in the estuary 185 Curlew, 40 Redshank, 26 Turnstone, six Greenshank, three Eider, two Sanderling and a Ringed Plover.
Overhead a Red Kite flew east at 11.30 with 120 Chaffinch and the first Grey Wagtail of the year heading the same way earlier in the day. Elsewhere a Sandwich Tern and a Red-throated Diver were offshore and four Wheatear were on site.
Shoveler - Lee Collins
Barnacle Goose - Martin Rooney
Wildlife News: The Sand Crocus put on a good show once the sun came out early afternoon with a new population of c200 flowering plants discovered in the Wryneck Plain. The sun also brought out the first Dark-edged Beefly and Small Tortoiseshell of the year, both in the Entrance Bushes. Elsewhere a Grey Seal was off the seawall and a Fox was by the hide.
Sunday, 24 March 2019
Sunday 24th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A few migrants arrived overnight but it was a quiet day overall with nine Chiffchaff, seven Wheatear and two Blackcap on site with 30+ Lesser Black-backed Gull, a dozen Chaffinch, five Rook and a Siskin overhead and a Kestrel in off the sea. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond, three Great Northern Diver were offshore and 308 Oystercatcher, 163 Curlew, 40 Redshank, 26 Dark-bellied and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, the latter arriving from the south, three Eider, two Greenshank and a Sandwich Tern were in the estuary.
Wildlife News: The sunshine brought out the Sand Crocus for only the second time this year, it appeared in record numbers with over 1,200 in flower in the Crocus Compound and Greenland Lake; amongst these was a rare eight petalled variant.
The same weather saw the first Speckled Wood of the year along with a Peacock and a Brimstone, a scarce but increasing visitor.
A few migrants arrived overnight but it was a quiet day overall with nine Chiffchaff, seven Wheatear and two Blackcap on site with 30+ Lesser Black-backed Gull, a dozen Chaffinch, five Rook and a Siskin overhead and a Kestrel in off the sea. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond, three Great Northern Diver were offshore and 308 Oystercatcher, 163 Curlew, 40 Redshank, 26 Dark-bellied and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, the latter arriving from the south, three Eider, two Greenshank and a Sandwich Tern were in the estuary.
Wildlife News: The sunshine brought out the Sand Crocus for only the second time this year, it appeared in record numbers with over 1,200 in flower in the Crocus Compound and Greenland Lake; amongst these was a rare eight petalled variant.
Sand Crocus
over 100 in this photo
The same weather saw the first Speckled Wood of the year along with a Peacock and a Brimstone, a scarce but increasing visitor.
Saturday, 23 March 2019
Saturday 23rd March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The first Blackcap of the year was singing in the Entrance Bushes, part of the first notable arrival of summer migrants with 11 Chiffchaff and at least 10 Wheatear on site and three Sand Martin north. Also overhead 328 Chaffinch, 14 Meadow Pipit and a Siskin.
Counts from the estuary included 214 Oystercatcher, 93 Curlew, 49 Common Gull, 31 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 24 Grey Plover, 17 Knot, 15 Sanderling, 14 Ringed Plover, six Greenshank, three Eider and two Sandwich Tern. Elsewhere a pair of Tufted Duck and three Great Northern Diver were offshore and the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond.
The first Blackcap of the year was singing in the Entrance Bushes, part of the first notable arrival of summer migrants with 11 Chiffchaff and at least 10 Wheatear on site and three Sand Martin north. Also overhead 328 Chaffinch, 14 Meadow Pipit and a Siskin.
Wheatear - Lee Collins
Counts from the estuary included 214 Oystercatcher, 93 Curlew, 49 Common Gull, 31 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 24 Grey Plover, 17 Knot, 15 Sanderling, 14 Ringed Plover, six Greenshank, three Eider and two Sandwich Tern. Elsewhere a pair of Tufted Duck and three Great Northern Diver were offshore and the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond.
Friday, 22 March 2019
Friday 22nd March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Spring migration was in evidence but there were few summer migrants to be found. The highlight was a good candidate for wild Barnacle Goose that arrived offshore in a flock of 15 Pale-bellied Brent Geese with six more Pale-bellies drooping in soon after. They later moved into the estuary where wintering species continue to dwindle, counts included 35 Dark and the two long-staying Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 11 Bar-tailed Godwit, 11 Teal, three Greenshank and three Eider.
Wildlife News: A male Hairy-footed Flower Bee was nectaring on planted Rosemary near the seawall. Although a common early spring species this was apparently the first site record and the 225th hymenopteran species for the recording area.
Spring migration was in evidence but there were few summer migrants to be found. The highlight was a good candidate for wild Barnacle Goose that arrived offshore in a flock of 15 Pale-bellied Brent Geese with six more Pale-bellies drooping in soon after. They later moved into the estuary where wintering species continue to dwindle, counts included 35 Dark and the two long-staying Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 11 Bar-tailed Godwit, 11 Teal, three Greenshank and three Eider.
Barnacle & Pale-bellied Brent Geese - Alan Keatley
Elsewhere a Wheatear was around the Bight and four Chiffchaff were in the bushes whilst five Great Northern and two Red-throated Diver were offshore.
Wildlife News: A male Hairy-footed Flower Bee was nectaring on planted Rosemary near the seawall. Although a common early spring species this was apparently the first site record and the 225th hymenopteran species for the recording area.
Thursday, 21 March 2019
Thursday 21st March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Ten Eider offshore (3m, 4f & 3 imm males) were new arrivals with the three overwintering immature males still in the estuary, also offshore two Red-throated Diver, 23 Great-crested Grebe and 20 Common Scoter.
Elsewhere two Wheatear and three Chiffchaff were on site with counts from the estuary including 156 Oystercatcher, 115 Curlew, 54 Redshank, 49 Dark and the two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 29 Common Gull, 10 Grey Plover, four Greenshank, four Ringed Plover and a Bar-tailed Godwit.
Wildlife News: A Common Seal was close inshore from John's Watch.
Ten Eider offshore (3m, 4f & 3 imm males) were new arrivals with the three overwintering immature males still in the estuary, also offshore two Red-throated Diver, 23 Great-crested Grebe and 20 Common Scoter.
Elsewhere two Wheatear and three Chiffchaff were on site with counts from the estuary including 156 Oystercatcher, 115 Curlew, 54 Redshank, 49 Dark and the two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 29 Common Gull, 10 Grey Plover, four Greenshank, four Ringed Plover and a Bar-tailed Godwit.
Wildlife News: A Common Seal was close inshore from John's Watch.
Wednesday, 20 March 2019
Wednesday 20th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A visit for the evening high tide saw counts of 202 Oystercatcher, 68 Redshank, 64 Dark and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 27 Turnstone, 15 Sanderling, five Greenshank, three Dunlin and three Ringed Plover, only the second record of the year. Elsewhere two Sand Martin flew through, two Wheatear, including the first female, were on the Golf Course and four Shoveler were at the Main Pond.
A visit for the evening high tide saw counts of 202 Oystercatcher, 68 Redshank, 64 Dark and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 27 Turnstone, 15 Sanderling, five Greenshank, three Dunlin and three Ringed Plover, only the second record of the year. Elsewhere two Sand Martin flew through, two Wheatear, including the first female, were on the Golf Course and four Shoveler were at the Main Pond.
Tuesday, 19 March 2019
Tuesday 19th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A late afternoon visit saw the first four Tufted Duck of the year off John's Watch, three males and a female, also offshore 30 Great-crested Grebe. Elsewhere records from the estuary included 300 Oystercatcher, 45 Dark-bellied and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 20 Dunlin, 14 Grey Plover and a Knot.
A late afternoon visit saw the first four Tufted Duck of the year off John's Watch, three males and a female, also offshore 30 Great-crested Grebe. Elsewhere records from the estuary included 300 Oystercatcher, 45 Dark-bellied and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 20 Dunlin, 14 Grey Plover and a Knot.
Monday, 18 March 2019
Monday 18th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Counts from the estuary at high tide included 249 Oystercatcher, 115 Curlew, 76 Dark and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 39 Redshank, 35 Turnstone, 24 Grey Plover, 14 Dunlin, 11 Knot, 10 Bar-tailed Godwit, two Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe. Elsewhere migrants were limited to two Chiffchaff.
Counts from the estuary at high tide included 249 Oystercatcher, 115 Curlew, 76 Dark and two Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 39 Redshank, 35 Turnstone, 24 Grey Plover, 14 Dunlin, 11 Knot, 10 Bar-tailed Godwit, two Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe. Elsewhere migrants were limited to two Chiffchaff.
Sunday, 17 March 2019
Sunday 17th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The long awaited first Wheatear of the year made landfall in Greenland Lake this morning but didn't linger with plenty of people and dogs making the most of a dry sunny Sunday. Also on site at least three singing male Cirl Bunting, a nest building pair of Stonechat, a Green Woodpecker and two Chiffchaff with five Rook and single Jackdaw and Raven overhead.
Elsewhere counts from the estuary included 198 Curlew, 170 Oystercatcher, 80 Dark-bellied and two Pale-belled Brent Geese, 34 Redshank, eight Teal, three Sandwich Tern, two Bar-tailed Godwit and a Greenshank.
Wildlife News: Despite the continuing windy weather the sunshine brought out the first few Sand Crocus of the year, an earlier than average date.
The long awaited first Wheatear of the year made landfall in Greenland Lake this morning but didn't linger with plenty of people and dogs making the most of a dry sunny Sunday. Also on site at least three singing male Cirl Bunting, a nest building pair of Stonechat, a Green Woodpecker and two Chiffchaff with five Rook and single Jackdaw and Raven overhead.
Elsewhere counts from the estuary included 198 Curlew, 170 Oystercatcher, 80 Dark-bellied and two Pale-belled Brent Geese, 34 Redshank, eight Teal, three Sandwich Tern, two Bar-tailed Godwit and a Greenshank.
Wildlife News: Despite the continuing windy weather the sunshine brought out the first few Sand Crocus of the year, an earlier than average date.
Saturday, 16 March 2019
Saturday 16th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Seawatching during the day saw a Great Skua offshore with four Manx Shearwater head south along with 356 Gannet, 98 Fulmar, 25 Kittiwake and five Red-throated Diver. Also south c140 Black-tailed Godwit in three separate flocks; a Great Northern Diver was feeding on crabs off the seawall despite the conditions.
A drake Goldeneye was in the estuary with three Pale-bellied Brent Geese in the Bight and counts of 104 Turnstone, 83 Curlew, 48 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, a Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe. Elsewhere two Chiffchaff were around the Main Pond and small numbers of Meadow Pipit passed over.
Seawatching during the day saw a Great Skua offshore with four Manx Shearwater head south along with 356 Gannet, 98 Fulmar, 25 Kittiwake and five Red-throated Diver. Also south c140 Black-tailed Godwit in three separate flocks; a Great Northern Diver was feeding on crabs off the seawall despite the conditions.
A drake Goldeneye was in the estuary with three Pale-bellied Brent Geese in the Bight and counts of 104 Turnstone, 83 Curlew, 48 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, a Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe. Elsewhere two Chiffchaff were around the Main Pond and small numbers of Meadow Pipit passed over.
Great-spotted Woodpecker - Alan Keatley
Thursday, 14 March 2019
Thursday 14th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A very windy day with bushes blown out and a low high tide producing very little in the way of waders. Counts from the estuary included 245 Oystercatcher, 85 Brent Geese and 63 Common Gull. Elsewhere two migrant Chiffchaff were by the Main Pond where two Shoveler remain, a Raven was overhead and an Eider was offshore.
Wildlife News: In the more sheltered areas a few hoverflies including Eristalis pertinax and Marmalade Hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus were on the wing with a queen Common Wasp Vespula vulgaris and the first solitary bee of the year, a Chocolate Mining Bee Andrena scotica.
A very windy day with bushes blown out and a low high tide producing very little in the way of waders. Counts from the estuary included 245 Oystercatcher, 85 Brent Geese and 63 Common Gull. Elsewhere two migrant Chiffchaff were by the Main Pond where two Shoveler remain, a Raven was overhead and an Eider was offshore.
Gannet - Alan Keatley
Wildlife News: In the more sheltered areas a few hoverflies including Eristalis pertinax and Marmalade Hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus were on the wing with a queen Common Wasp Vespula vulgaris and the first solitary bee of the year, a Chocolate Mining Bee Andrena scotica.
Chocolate Mining Bee - Alan Keatley
Tuesday, 12 March 2019
Sunday, 10 March 2019
Sunday 10th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A very windy day saw two Red-throated and a Great Northern Diver head south offshore with 298 Gannet, 80 Kittiwake and 17 Fulmar. Elsewhere counts from the estuary included 77 Common Gull, 67 Curlew, 40 Turnstone, 32 Grey Plover, 16 Redshank, 13 Knot, three Eider and a Greenshank.
A very windy day saw two Red-throated and a Great Northern Diver head south offshore with 298 Gannet, 80 Kittiwake and 17 Fulmar. Elsewhere counts from the estuary included 77 Common Gull, 67 Curlew, 40 Turnstone, 32 Grey Plover, 16 Redshank, 13 Knot, three Eider and a Greenshank.
Saturday, 9 March 2019
Saturday 9th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Two Swallow feeding around the seawall and Amusements early afternoon equalled the previous earliest ever arrival in 1997, with a Sand Martin over the Golf Course the second earliest record. Other migrants included two Chiffchaff, one in song, a Greenshank in off at the seawall and three Raven and two Rook overhead. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler and four Shoveler were at the Main Pond.
Counts from the estuary included 380 Oystercatcher, including an Icelandic ringed bird, 147 Curlew, 132 Common Gull, 28 Redshank, three Eider, two Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe.
Wildlife News: A Green Longhorn moth Adela reaumurella had emerged at least a month early with other spring insects such Tree Bumblebee and Green Shieldbug also noted. Elsewhere a Grey Seal was offshore.
Two Swallow feeding around the seawall and Amusements early afternoon equalled the previous earliest ever arrival in 1997, with a Sand Martin over the Golf Course the second earliest record. Other migrants included two Chiffchaff, one in song, a Greenshank in off at the seawall and three Raven and two Rook overhead. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler and four Shoveler were at the Main Pond.
Swallow - Alan Keatley
Counts from the estuary included 380 Oystercatcher, including an Icelandic ringed bird, 147 Curlew, 132 Common Gull, 28 Redshank, three Eider, two Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe.
Wildlife News: A Green Longhorn moth Adela reaumurella had emerged at least a month early with other spring insects such Tree Bumblebee and Green Shieldbug also noted. Elsewhere a Grey Seal was offshore.
Green Shieldbug - Alan Keatley
Aglaostigma aucupariae - Alan Keatley
Friday, 8 March 2019
Friday 8th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
The Slavonian Grebe was off Cockwood with counts from the estuary including 42 Grey Plover, 14 Knot, three Eider and a Greenshank. Elsewhere a Red-legged Partridge was a surprise on Warren Point, but was apparently first seen last week, the Muscovy Duck in the saltmarsh has probably been 'wild' for longer though.
The Slavonian Grebe was off Cockwood with counts from the estuary including 42 Grey Plover, 14 Knot, three Eider and a Greenshank. Elsewhere a Red-legged Partridge was a surprise on Warren Point, but was apparently first seen last week, the Muscovy Duck in the saltmarsh has probably been 'wild' for longer though.
Red-legged Partridge - Lee Collins
Thursday, 7 March 2019
Thursday 7th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Counts from the estuary included 710 Dunlin, 300 Oystercatcher, 92 Curlew, 70 Turnstone, 45 Grey Plover, 33 Knot, 25 Sanderling, six Greenshank, three Eider and in the saltmarsh a single Muscovy Duck. Elsewhere a Chiffchaff was by the Main Pond and a Great Northern Diver was offshore.
Wildlife News: Another new species for the recording area was found today, the sawfly Aglaostigma aucupariae, a widespread early Spring species. The Grey Seal was again in the estuary.
Counts from the estuary included 710 Dunlin, 300 Oystercatcher, 92 Curlew, 70 Turnstone, 45 Grey Plover, 33 Knot, 25 Sanderling, six Greenshank, three Eider and in the saltmarsh a single Muscovy Duck. Elsewhere a Chiffchaff was by the Main Pond and a Great Northern Diver was offshore.
Redshank - Alan Keatley
Wildlife News: Another new species for the recording area was found today, the sawfly Aglaostigma aucupariae, a widespread early Spring species. The Grey Seal was again in the estuary.
Aglaostigma aucupariae - Alan Keatley
Wednesday, 6 March 2019
Wednesday 6th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Records from the estuary included 347 Brent Geese, the highest count this winter, 39 Grey Plover, 22 Knot, 13 Red-breasted Merganser and the Slavonian Grebe.
Wildlife News: A Grey Seal was hauled out on a pontoon in the estuary.
Records from the estuary included 347 Brent Geese, the highest count this winter, 39 Grey Plover, 22 Knot, 13 Red-breasted Merganser and the Slavonian Grebe.
Wildlife News: A Grey Seal was hauled out on a pontoon in the estuary.
Grey Seal - Lee Collins
Tuesday, 5 March 2019
Tuesday 5th March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide
Two Spoonbill were the highlight, an adult and immature flew in from east passing the hide and circling Shutterton Creek before heading towards Powderham.
Two Spoonbill were the highlight, an adult and immature flew in from east passing the hide and circling Shutterton Creek before heading towards Powderham.
Sunday, 3 March 2019
Sunday 3rd March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
Seawatching during the day was largely uneventful with c130 Gannet, 75 Kittiwake and c40 Fulmar south along with six Common Scoter and a Red-throated Diver. Elsewhere counts from the estuary included 440 Oystercatcher, 230 Brent Geese, 47 Grey Plover, 37 Knot, 23 Sanderling, three Eider and the Slavonian Grebe.
Seawatching during the day was largely uneventful with c130 Gannet, 75 Kittiwake and c40 Fulmar south along with six Common Scoter and a Red-throated Diver. Elsewhere counts from the estuary included 440 Oystercatcher, 230 Brent Geese, 47 Grey Plover, 37 Knot, 23 Sanderling, three Eider and the Slavonian Grebe.
Saturday, 2 March 2019
Saturday 2nd March
Due to the significant erosion at Dawlish Warren, Teignbridge District Council is advising extreme caution when visiting. The dune path between groyne 10 – 18 is unsafe and a section of this path is completely closed with no access. Access to Warren Point and the bird hide is only possible via the beach with the risk of being cut off for a period either side of each high tide. The only access, up and back down, to these areas is along the beach at lower states of tide.
A pale phase Pomarine Skua moved south early morning but it was otherwise quiet offshore with just three Red-throated Diver. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond, the remains of a long dead Short-eared Owl were found on the Warren Point, a Redwing was in Dead Dolphin Wood, 197 Brent Geese, 32 Wigeon, 24 Teal, a Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe were in the estuary and five Raven and two Rook were overhead.
Wildlife News: The first Tree Bumblebee of the year was nectaring with up to a dozen Buff-tailed Bumblebee on a sallow on Warren Point with several Seven-spot Ladybird, a Gorse Shieldbug and a Bishop's Mitre Shieldbug also awakening for Spring. Other records included a Harbour Porpoise off the seawall and two Fox on Warren Point.
A pale phase Pomarine Skua moved south early morning but it was otherwise quiet offshore with just three Red-throated Diver. Elsewhere the Cetti's Warbler was at the Main Pond, the remains of a long dead Short-eared Owl were found on the Warren Point, a Redwing was in Dead Dolphin Wood, 197 Brent Geese, 32 Wigeon, 24 Teal, a Greenshank and the Slavonian Grebe were in the estuary and five Raven and two Rook were overhead.
Stonechat - Dave Jewell
Wildlife News: The first Tree Bumblebee of the year was nectaring with up to a dozen Buff-tailed Bumblebee on a sallow on Warren Point with several Seven-spot Ladybird, a Gorse Shieldbug and a Bishop's Mitre Shieldbug also awakening for Spring. Other records included a Harbour Porpoise off the seawall and two Fox on Warren Point.
Bishop's Mitre - Alan Keatley