An interesting early morning vis-mig session and wander. Mipits and hirundines were on the move westwards and immediately obvious, plus Tree Pipits (10+), Yellow Wags, Siskin, and Reed Bunting overhead. One of the highlights was a calling Hawfinch that suddenly landed in the trees near me at the top of Nansen Hill (around 7:30am); and after a couple of minutes it took flight again eastwards/SE and out of view. Mark B had one at Blackgang the other day, so perhaps it's going to be an autumn/winter for them? [My last one, also over Ventnor Downs, was on November 10th, 2021].
More frustrating was a Ringtail Harrier sp that came in from the WNW, low down, and carried on eastwards low over the trees towards Nansen; however, it turned southwards and dropped out of sight towards Bonchurch (around 08:15); and I didn't see it again. Most views were of its upperparts and going away from me - but ultimately, views were not conclusive beyond that of it being a 'ringtail'.
Also: Blackcaps and Chiffs have been well represented in the area with 100+ around, plus Firecrest (12+), Goldcrest starting to increase, and Robins & Blackbirds etc.
Hawfinch - video (phone) - audio of it calling (ripped) - Sept 25th (and Oct 4th).
Close to October - starting to feel and look autumnal
