Activity over recent days has largely involved waders, although the first significant warbler dispersal across the area – with Willow Warblers dominating and small numbers of e.g. the commoner Sylvias, as well as increasing numbers of Yellow Wagtails (into low double figures across the area in recent days) – have also provided interest. Three Greenshank briefly visited the Tip today, where a Tree Pipit also dropped in (the first of the season), and 14 Curlew, a Golden Plover and a Ringed Plover flew over. A male Red-veined Darter was a reward for one of ringers clearing the lanes there yesterday (DL).
Spotted Redshank (Mark Pearson)
Small numbers of waders at the Brigg have included a Spotted Redshank in off the sea yesterday eve (MJP), and 12 Dunlin, four Knot, eight Turnstones, 20 Oystercatchers and two Whimbrel in situ. The sea has been quiet, with just a few Manxies and terns passing the hide in the last few days, but Painted Lady numbers have increased, with a peak of 28 on Carr Naze on 11th.
Sparrowhawk, East Lea (Mark Pearson)
The mud at the Dams continues to provide most interest however, with the Spotted Redshank still present today, up to four Greenshank, three Green Sandpipers, five Ruff, ten Dunlin, two Ringed Plover and two Redshanks; a Kingfisher (MJP, JRS) and two Water Rails were also present this evening. A Wheatear dropped in at East Lea today.