Woodlark

A singing Woodlark was recently found by Graham Andrews (at an undisclosed Island location) and thanks to Graham providing info regarding its whereabouts, I got to experience it today. I often encounter a few vis mig 'flyovers', especially during October/November, but to hear a singing individual at this time of year is quite novel, especially on the IOW; places like the nearby New Forest still have healthy numbers breeding as far as I'm aware. Got some some record shots of this bird and something of a sound recording (an ill-timed overhead plane didn't help?!). And after so many wet dreary days this winter it was nice to experience some sunshine too. 

SCP (sea etc)

Using up some annual leave presently and over the last week or so. Weather's been a mixed bag (showery) and quite blowy at times, from the south, so I tried sea watching at 'St Cath's' a few times: fairly low/average numbers of passing RTDs (38 on Jan 18th), kittiwakes, etc. Plus, 2x DB Brent, 2x common Scoter, and a shelduck (all Eastbound on Jan 22nd). Enjoyable nonetheless and something about a stormy sea....

A Black-necked Grebe was a highlight off Ryde Pier back on Jan 19th (and a collective total of c50 GC Grebes on Solent waters West and East of the Pier).

Overall a fairly mild winter - Spring not far off now

Sibe Chiff - New Year

Having not posted anything for a while I thought I better post something....first post of the year too. A cold start to 2026, frosty and icy, North westerlies - but nice and bright. 

A Sibe-looking Chiff was the highlight today (Jan 5th) at Roud (Sewage Works), a typical spot to find a tristis with common chiffs (10+) feeding in and around the clinker beds. Plus, a calling Cetti's nearby and two Egyptian Goose flew over..

Record shot at least - stood out next to the more typical common chiffs

Back end of last year - 'Russian' White-fronted geese with Canadas - Brading Marsh (40+ since December 27th 2025)

Ventnor Bay - Jan 2026