Quackers

Today, as the title suggests, was quackers. All about them too. Records were again broken, more of that later.

Ringing was quieter than previous days. Only 41 ringed, I say only, I mean it's down on recent days.

Willow Warbler 11
Redstart 11
Whitethroat 5
Blackcap 3
Reed Warbler 3
Pied Flycatcher 2
Garden Warbler 2
Sparrowhawk 2
Robin 1
Firecrest 1

 

Firecrest 2k+ female.  Craig Brookes

So what was quackers? Apart from Louis chasing a Red-breasted flycatcher down a road on a bicycle, I'm referring of course to ducks and a record breaking number at that! Today in 12 hours of observation (Louis mainly, with me later on) counted an impressive 5873 migrating Wigeon, a new day record for early September. Also 2800+ Common Scoter throughout the day which was rather impressive. In my book are the following, Eider 91, Pintail 109, Teal 94, Shoveler 43, Gadwall 1, Common Tern 22, Arctic Tern 18, Commic Tern 6, Black Tern 3, LITTLE TERN 1, Little Gull 72, Arctic Skua 27, Long-tailed Skua 3, Dunlin 42, Bar-tailed Godwit 2, Sanderling 1, Redshank 1, Ringed Plover 1, Oystercatcher 5, Mallard 1, Red-breasted Merganser 1, Marsh Harrier 1, Sparrowhawk 1, Red-throated Pipit 1, Crossbill 3 and Siskin (1 flock - not visible).

Duck mix. Mainly Wigeon - Louis Hansen

Eiders - Louis Hansen

Resting
Spotted Flycatcher 1, Red-Breasted Flycatcher 1, Jay 4, Hobby 1, Kestrel 2, Marsh Harrier 3, Sparrowhawk 4, Merlin 1, Starling 50, Velvet Scoter 6, Golden Plover 250, Long-tailed Skua (same as prev days) and a male Wheatear.

In the evening we were invited down into Gedser town, for a fantastic farewell meal. Thanks Louis, a superb spread and fantastic company, as always! On the way back from Gedser we flushed not 1 but 2 Nightjars from the road, so now the nets are up and the churring can be heard throughout the peninsular!

Blog Craig Brookes

Photo (Firecrest) - Craig Brookes
Photo (ducks) - Louis Hansen.