Velvet Scoter, Curlew Sandpiper and Puffin

16th May 2009 - sunshine and showers SE4/5
Offshore
A good day over the sea which provided variety rather than quantity. Sightings were led by 2 Velvet Scoter, 2 Puffin and 2 dark phase Arctic Skua with a supporting cast (0730-0930 & 1240-1340) of 200 Sandwich Tern, 160 Common Scoter, 46 Gannet, 18 Manx Shearwater, 4 Shag, 4 Arctic Tern, 3 Red-throated Diver, 3 Guillemot, 3 Razorbill, 2 Common Tern, 2 Fulmar and a Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to just 3 Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Small-scale movement continues to take place with 30 Swallow, 4 Collared Dove, 3 Jackdaw and 2 House Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Sightings were led by a Curlew Sandpiper amongst a flock of 1000 Dunlin, 230 Ringed Plover and 12 Sanderling. In addition, 3 Whimbrel were seen.