St Mary's 16th October

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A somewhat quieter day which started with a brief view of a Nightingale in a Porthcressa garden. I then walked along the coast, trying to locate a Ring Ouzel near the allotments which proved to be a Song Thrush sounding just like one. At Lower Moors a Jack Snipe showed well near the ISBG hide, and a couple of Wigeon were also present. A Merlin flew past at close range, such exciting birds to see.

Later in the day an Olive-backed Pipit was reported at Carn Friars. The pipit was in a small orchard, and was watched for 45 minutes creeping around in the grass.  The bird was unfortunately then flushed by a local driving a buggy into the orchard.

On the way back a large flock of Swallows (up to 200) had gathered in the sky just before Hugh Town.

Olive-backed Pipit

Olive-backed Pipit

Jack Snipe

Jack Snipe

Greenfinch



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