Dungeness 02/05/22

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A long overdue visit to Dungeness started with a seawatch, as is customary at this time of year. However, before reaching the beach a passerine flew in off, and though didn't call it looked good for Woodlark.

The sea was like a millpond and proved to be relatively quiet for birds. An Arctic Skua flew east, though was quite distant, and there was one flock each of Bar-tailed Godwit, Common Scoter and Brent Geese. A drake Goosander flew inland, and a singing Black Redstart was seen in the power station complex. There were many porpoises offshore.

The remainder of the visit was spent on the RSPB reserve, where there was a drake Garganey on Burrows. The selection of waders included 21 Bar-tailed Godwit, many in full summer plumage, and one each of Whimbrel,  Grey Plover and Common Sandpiper. Two-three Hobby were also seen while the usual warblers included two singing Lesser Whitethroat.

Brent Geese

Bar-tailed Godwit

Bar-tailed Godwit

Whimbrel

Common Gull




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