Finch passage increased notably with 213 Chaffinch, 49 Goldfinch, 71 Siskin, and four Brambling, the first of the autumn, recorded today. 14 Barnacle Geese were seen touring the island around midday. A Lapland Bunting flew south along the west coast, and a Snow Bunting was feeding on the main track by the airfield. Three Reed Warbler were in Millcombe and St John's Valley, two were trapped and ringed. A Yellow-browed Warbler was seen by Millcombe Pond, and a Willow Warbler in Punchbowl Valley. Two Firecrest and a Spotted Flycatcher in Millcombe also. A male Ring Ouzel was at North Quarry, a Fieldfare was feeding in Barton's Field, three Grey Wagtail overhead, and a Tree Pipit flew west over Benjamin's Chair. Six Water Rail recorded today is a notable count for the autumn. Three Merlin and Two Sparrowhawk were recorded, and the Short-toed Lark was seen around its favoured cowpat.
Chaffinch in St John's Valley ©Tom Williams