WWT and other sightings 26-29 March 2007

Rock Pipit at Portland harbour sailing school. This bird was in full song but couldn't be bothered to stand up! M.J.McGill

Male Northern Wheatear at WWT Slimbridge 29 March 2007 M.J.McGill.

29 March 2007 A number of migrants were noted around WWT today, at least 120 Sand Martin were seen around various parts of the reserve during the day. The Chiffchaff numbers had also increased with 15+ in song today. The Common Buzzards were displaying over the grounds and at least 2 male Wheatear were seen. At least 6 late Pochard, 1 Spotted Redshank and 100 Teal were noted in the 100 Acre.

28 March 2007 At WWT a Swallow, 7 Sand Martin, 2 Wheatear and 180 fog-grounded Meadow Pipits were seen. At least one Little Stint was with the 40 Dunlin in the 100 Acre marsh (view from Green Lane). The Temminck's Stint was on the Dumbles pool in front of Holden Tower at 1330 at least.

27 March 2007 We were all off site staying/working at Portland and Abbotsbury, Dorset. I got up in time to see a Marsh Harrier from the Obs but the others noted a few species around the Bill with 10 Common Scoter, Great Skua and a fall of Chiffchaff being the highlights.

26 March 2007 A bit of birding and a lot of cricket late afternoon/early evening at Portland. A male Black Redstart at the harbour sailing school. The highlight was taking 7 wickets and only being bowled for a duck once in four innings (don't ask about the rules).