First Whimbrel of the year

16th April 2011 – overcast then sunny/calm
Offshore
Despite the calm conditions some movement was evident over the sea early morning (0745-0815) with 50 Sandwich Tern, 36 Kittiwake, 30 Common Scoter, 21 Gannet, 8 Red-throated Diver, 6 Guillemot and 2 Razorbill logged.
Grounded Migrants
An influx of Wheatear produced 50 birds, also seen were 14 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap and 2 Grasshopper Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
A trickle of Sand Martin and Swallow moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The wintering Brent Goose flock continues to dwindle with just 2 pale-bellied birds seen. Waders included 12 Purple Sandpiper amongst 520 Turnstone and the first Whimbrel of the year.
Miscellaneous
A Raven was the best of the rest.
Mammals
A tranquil sea provided at least 4 Harbour Porpoise early morning.