Flamborough 10th Nov

On Sunday 10th November, nine club members met at Flamborough Head for the November club trip. An hour’s seawatching in the new hide (thanks to the observatory) produced three or four Little Auks, at least 20 Red-throated Divers, Gannets, Common Scoter, Guillemot and Razorbill flew past and a Great-Crested Grebe was on the sea. We also saw porpoise and seals. On the rocks, there were Purple Sandpipers, Shags, Turnstone and Rock Pipit.  

We then walked to Old Fall, finding a flock of nine Snow Buntings in a ploughed field on the way which showed really well from the coastal path. We spent time in the plantation in the hope of seeing the reported Hume’s Leaf Warbler but only had definite sightings of Chiffchaff. A Sparrowhawk that chased a Blackbird around the trees for what seemed like several minutes possibly sent the passerines into hiding. However, deciding to walk around the outside, we soon heard the call of the Hume’s which proceeded to show well to all, giving close views and calling much of the time.  

After lunch we headed to Thornwick pools but were too late to catch the Waxwing reported earlier. We explored that area for a while and then set off for Bempton where we caught up with a second Hume’s Leaf Warbler which again was showy. Our day finished with wonderful views of two Short-eared and two Barn Owls hunting over the fields near the car park.   A thoroughly enjoyable day and, in contrast to recent trips, the weather was mainly dry with only one short shower.

Rob