Back to conditions I know and love at Fly Flatts with a moderate SW>3 gusting 4 with early drizzle and full dark cloud at 11 degrees. By 0915 hrs it developed into broken cloud and some sun.
The highlight this morning, though somewhat of a distraction, was the sky full of Swifts moving slowly >S on a broad front on three levels, some skimming the water, some at moderate height and others very high and only visible through the bins or scope.
A very light variant Buzzard was quartering the west moor and being mobbed by a Kestrel and then a second Buzzard. This bird was brilliant white on its underside and a clean white head and could have been mistaken for a distant Osprey.
Another unusual feature was watching a Common Sandpiper discharge a pellet, something I dont think I,ve seen before. There were 9 Common Sands present including 2 new fledged birds but no sign of Ringed Plover, though more shore is now exposed.
Otherwise, just a few Swallows and LBB gulls over along with the usual species. Very strange up there now with no sound of the Curlew.
I was lucky to get back out of the gate at Fly Flatts this morning as I got a photo and text on the Sailing club grapevine with a lorry load of rubble and rubbish tipped against the gate blocking all access at around midday. I've alerted YW and hoping the council shift it this afternoon.
Looking ok for morning with a strong westerly and bit of rain but clear visibility.
BS