A pretty quiet day but a Sedge Warbler and a Spotted Flycatcher were new arrivals in the bushes whilst a flock of Sanderling and Dunlin provided some entertainment at the fishing boats. Offshore passage was virtually non-existent so the big surprise of the day was the reappearance of the previously long-staying second-year Iceland Gull at the Patch this morning.
Dunlin Calidris alpina Dungeness 25th May 2021 This bird would appear to be of the race alpina. Note the rich rufous edgings of the coverts and scapulars and a pale, whitish looking head. |
Sanderling Calidris alba Dungeness 25th May 2021 A variety of plumages among a flock of 70 birds at the Fishing Boats this morning. |
One Porpoise was seen.
On the botanical front we are finally get a few things in flower. Yellow Vetch can now be found on the bank surrounding the Observatory and the first Yellow-juiced Poppies were found. in front of the Observatory.
Yellow Vetch Vicia lutea Dungeness 25th May 2021 |
Yellow-juiced Poppy Papaver lecoqui Dungeness 25th May 2021 |