By Emma Abel
The day began with clear skies and low wind, lucky for the day trippers who had a smooth crossing on the Oldenburg.
Opening the moth trap in Milcombe, we were greeted with some new species for the year including a Buff Ermine, Foxglove Pug, Lime-speck Pug and Early Thorn.
Lime-speck Pug by Emma Abel
Buff Ermine by Emma Abel
The seabird station was very busy with lots of people heading to Jenny's Cove, hoping for a glimpse of Puffins. With highest counts of 53 on the cliff at one time, all visitors got to see their promised puffins, basking in the sun and waddling around with nesting material. Auk activity was very high, with over 2000 Guillemots crammed together on the cliffs, some ledges at least 5 birds deep. Razorbills nestled together in their pairs, enjoying their personal space. Wheeling Kittiwakes joined in with the Auk calls, creating the lovely soundscape of a busy seabird colony.
In other bird news around the island, it was a quieter day for migrants, with Sedge Warbler numbers rising but Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers not what they were in peak spring migration. Millcombe was the hot-spot for terrestrial bird sightings, with a Cuckoo hanging around most of the morning. A Tree Pipit at the Ugly, a Garden Warbler in the secret garden and a Spotted Flycatcher hanging around in the trees. Over near old light a male Redstart was seen along with a Reed Warbler at Pointless Wall. Finally, down in the landing bay was one Common Sandpiper hopping around on the rocks by the jetty.
Cuckoo by Greg Lee