Soil Hill at 1700hrs was grim to say the least with heavy rain throughout carried in on a cold SE>4-5 with low cloud and scud overhead.
Having said that, conditions were ideal for dropping passing waders in which was the purpose of the trip again hoping for Dotterel or Ringed and Little Ringed Plovers, ambitious or what.
The only small wader found was smaller than expected with a chick Lapwing proving breeding success for the hill.
The chick was very well camouflaged and each time it went to ground it could easily have been stood on not moving as you walked near so keep your eyes on the deck when you,re up there and you can blame me if you miss an Osprey flying over.
When I was sure the hill was clear of dotterel I concentrated on the Ring Ouzel area but the birds have now moved on or keeping down in the weather conditions as also no Whitethroats were showing.
Several Meadow Pipits and Skylarks were showing along with 9 Stock Doves down on the Shay and 3 Mallard on the top track.
Target birds for Sunday/ Monday , Swift, Tern, and any waders, although anything good will be gratefully received.
BS