Dowitcher in Dorset

So for my last birding trip in the UK for a few months, it was decided that we would hit Dorset for the day, primarily for the Short-Billed Dowitcher at Lodmoor but also as it always makes a lovely day out. Upon arriving at Lodmoor in bright sunshine, the Dowitcher was showing on cue only 100 yards away, where it fed on the edge of the long grass for around 5 minutes before disappearing into the reeds. It was supported by a cast that included a single Bar-Headed Goose, Sparrowhawk, Common Sandpiper, singing Cetti's Warblers and small numbers of ducks.

Short-billed Dowitcher, Limnodromus griseus

We spent the rest of the day between Stanpit marsh and Ferrybridge; there were good numbers of waders including Black-tailed Godwit, Knot and a single Curlew Sandpiper! There was also plenty of vis mig, with Wheatears, Swallows, Meadow Pipits and Linnets all moving in good numbers.

A final ringing session before my trip this morning proved fruitful, and again migration was obvious. We easily hit double figures of Chiffchaff and Blackcap despite a shower interupting proceedings. However, there were two birds that easily stood out amongst the rest, and are real contenders for birds of the year at the Mumbles! One, a lovely juvenile Spotted Flycatcher, my first in the hand, and the other.... This stunning female Firecrest! So a very nice send off for me, and now I'm frantically packing for Madagascar!

Firecrest, Regulus ignicapilla

Firecrest, Regulus ignicapilla