18th April

The best arrival of migrants of the year so far occurred on a far nicer and far calmer day. The highlights were the first 3 Lapland Buntings and 7 Willow Warblers of the year, while other species were present in increased number. These included 66 Wheatears, 11 Robins, 2 Swallows (the first since the very early migrant on 27th March), 5 Chiffchaffs, 12 Redwings, 8 Song Thrushes, 7 Fieldfares and 280 Meadow Pipits. A Redpoll, a Siskin and 3 Bramblings were all new finches, and a Goldcrest and a Carrion Crow were also freshly arrived. A Long-eared Owl, a Hen Harrier, 3 Sparrowhawks and 2 Merlins were seen, and at least one new Woodpigeon arrived in addition to the lingering 2.