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