Flamborough Head 11th May

A group of 14 intrepid birders swapped their buckets and spades for Scopes and Binoculars for what was a very hot and sunny day birding at the seaside.

The weather was perfect for the myriad day-trippers who descended upon Flambrough but, not surprisingly due to the calm and hot conditions, many of the birds decided to have a day off.

There were no major surprises during the sea watch with all the regulars in evidence. A group of 3 Sandwich Terns, a male Eider and a Bar-Tailed Godwit were the only variety. A female Goosander in the rock pools in glaring sunlight and heat haze produced a good discussion within the party. The large numbers of Seals (both Common And Grey) are always good value and entertaining to watch.

The only real bird of note in the Motorway Hedge was a Lesser Whitethroat amongst the usual finches and buntings. 

After lunch a saunter down to South Landing didn’t produce any waders, largely due to the number of families on the beach. A return through the wood and over the ‘whale bridge’ added more birds to the list but no surprises. 

Highlight of the day: a small pod of Bottle-nose Dolphins heading North during the seawatch.

In total 57 species were recorded  View my #BirdTrack list: https://app.bto.org/birdtrack/pubcon/shared?subId=SUB49933523

If the birding was a bit underwhelming, the weather and the company more than made up for it. It was thoroughly enjoyable day conducted in good spirits and good humour. 

Many thanks indeed to everyone who attended, very much appreciated.

Alan S