Weather-wise, we'd a brisk wind off the North Sea for much of it, but it wasn't oppressively strong and steadily decreased (and became milder) as the week wore on - and who's to complain at almost wall-to-wall sunshine throughout...? Big skies, almost cloudless by day and with killer sunsets at dusk, and the kind of conditions that inspire every freshly-arrived passerine to sing fervently and heartily.
Black Redstart
Highlights were numerous, but included: a point-blank Hawfinch (feeding practically at our feet), Black Brant and pale-bellied Brent among hundreds of dark-bellied Brents, Ring Ouzels, Wood Sandpiper, many stunning breeding plumage waders (including Grey Plovers and Bar-tailed Godwits), cracking male Black and Common Redstarts, Hobby, Swift and hirundine passage, shedloads of warblers and Wheatears, Yellow Wagtails, Tree Pipit, Little Terns...
.... and in a frantic, serendipitous final session, churring Nightjar (above) and showy Wryneck (below) within twenty metres of each other. To have these too legendarily cryptic species practically alongside each other under crystal clear blue skies felt like a classically Spurn spring moment.
Another great trip to this always magical place, which was once again greatly augmented by the generosity and help of the Obs crew and all the local Spurn birders - our team left with nothing but praise for the birding community (and armfuls of merchandise from the hub, of course...). Thanks again, folks.
Ring Ouzel (above), saucy Avocets (below)
If you'd like to join me there in autumn, places are available HERE.
A couple of runs along Easington Straight, good early prep for something coming up soon....
