An excellent day of migration. A Barn Owl was along the approach road at dawn and on the sea 120 Common Scoters, 12 Red-breasted Mergansers, 250+ Gannets, 18 Great Crested Grebes, a Razorbill, 5 Sandwich Terns and a Kittiwake were recorded. Raptors included a Sparrowhawk, 3 Common Buzzards, a Marsh Harrier and a Peregrine. Three Water Rails were calling around the Broadwater and 2 Tawny owls were in the pines. A Whimbrel and 28 Curlew were also counted. Most numerous today were Goldcrests with at least 350 present. 5 Cetti's Warblers, a Yellow-browed Warbler, 10 Chiffchaffs, 8 Blackcaps, 2 Reed Warblers, a Ring Ouzel, a Fieldfare, 25 Song Thrushes, 100 Redwings, 80 Robins, a male Stonechat, 3 Grey Wagtails, 65 Meadow Pipits, 2 Rock Pipits, 15 Bramblings, 3 Redpolls, 10 Siskins and a Yellowhammer were also recorded.
In the moth trap Black Rustic, Lunar Underwing, Feathere Ranunculus and Large Wainscot were counted, and in the afternoon sunshine Common and Ruddy Darter were around the Obs together with several Migrant Hawkers.
Holme Bird Observatory (Header)
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CORONAVIRUS UPDATE – Tuesday 29th DECEMBER 2020
Further to the announcement of a Tier 4 (Stay at home) lockdown in Norfolk, the NOA has closed all hides on its nature reserves. While we would discourage anyone from travelling too far during this crucial time, our reserves themselves will remain open for local visitors and usual charges will apply for non-members. Please follow government advice, and respect social distancing at all times. We will restore access to our facilities as and when government restrictions permit.
We are very grateful for your understanding and support.
