Sunday 1 January 2017

Sibe Chiffchaffs, Lapland Buntings and lots more



Day out birding with Dave and Paul. We had a quick look for the Masked Wagtail, but with no sign we headed on to Newgale. Working through the Scoter flocks we made our way south to Broad Haven stopping at various points (not for long because it was freezing) to view the sea. We gave them a good look but despite the numbers (about 1,000) there was nothing more unusual apart from 2 Wigeon and 2 Teal on the sea! Also 2 Great Northern and 2 Red-throated Divers offshore. Amazingly, there was a raft of Scoters really close off Broad Haven, offering fantastic views! Next to Monk Haven. All the scrub around the filter beds had been removed but this didn't stop the Chiffchaffs, 5 birds were present, including 2 smart Siberian Chiffchaffs. And an additional Chiffchaff by the church. The wind picked up even more at Marloes, but this didn't stop us. The stubble fields between Trehill and West Hook were full of birds. 100+ Skylarks and at least 10 Lapland Buntings, the flock was quite mobile so there could be more. They are best viewed from the road towards Martin's Haven. Also, fantastic views of a male Merlin zooming over the fields. We finished the day at the Gann to check the gull roost. 15 Brent Geese on the beach and the highlights from the roost were about 11 Meds, 10 adults and a 3CY and an Argentatus Herring Gull. Thanks Dave and Paul for a great day.