It’s calm morning with Redpoll and Siskin moving across the awakening sky. Linnets also sighted, along with the which Goldfinch move in clouds, some 20-30 in number. Short bursts of wing flutter, with a high pitched ‘tinkling’ of sound that builds and dissipates as they pass overhead.
The bird ringers show a long list of Chiffchaff and Goldcrest all caught and ringed this morning. As I speak to them, they are quickly getting through another batch of Goldcrest: I am shown how to identify the differences between the males (usually 5.3-5.4 grams in weight, with a wing length of 54-55mm), whilst the females (usually 5.2-5.3 grams with a wing length of 52-53mm).
Some of the heavier birds will have spent time building up reserves in preparation to cross the channel, whilst the lighter ones are likely resting after a long journey from Scandinavia. All heading South for warmer climates and therefore food availability over Winter. The males also display fiery orange feathers under their distinctive yellow crest, resembling that of a Firecrest.
I head down to the cliffs where I find yet more Chiffchaffs busying themselves in the Tamarisk and Blue Tits bustling in Holm Oaks. I can hear a Robin’s distinctive loud ‘popping’ warbles, the quick-fire Wren call, and high pitched tweeting from a Dunnock, which appears momentarily showing off its mottled brown plumage. Passing across the scrub, Chaffinch,, a group of Long-tailed Tits, and some Meadow Pipits too.
It's a lovely view along the coast towards Durlston Head, with the Isle of Wight visible on the horizon. The Guillemots are visible upon their cliff ledge, this past week being sighted every morning, and heading out to sea around 10am. A small fishing boat San Gina III trundles past.
Along the clifftop I see Hamish who reports a Yellow-browed Warbler by the Castle. His other sightings that I missed include Crossbill, Woodlark, and interestingly several Starlings which we don’t usually see here at Durlston.