Holland Haven Birding Group ©

Official Birding Records of the Group 

Reports of Birds & other Wildlife at Holland Haven

The Haven Site is situated at Holland-on-Sea, Tendring, Essex UK

O/S Reference:   TM 21924 17519    51.48.44N / 1.13.5E

Recent Sightings

Key: Plain Text- Resident/Regular Visitor. Green -Likely to be Annual. Amber -Less than Annual. Red -Rarity. CAPITALS-New bird for site.

(The above "Colour Coding" changed for several species in 2013 due to some being now a more regular species at the Haven - which has got to be good, whilst others are unfortunately not seen/recorded here as much as they used to be. This coding is purely defined by Holland Haven Birding Group for the Haven site). 

Site Year Tick*

NOVEMBER  2018 

1st – A very grey, rainy start to the month!  No reports returned.

2nd/3rd – No reports returned.

4th – Today was described as “quiet at Haven” with the trees, bushes and hedgerows giving little except a couple of both Goldcrest and Redwing, along with a few Blackbirds.  The Scrape had just 10 Blk-T Godwits of any note, while the Wigeon and Teal numbers are “slowly building”.  Singles of Sparrowhawk, Marsh Harrier and Common Buzzard were viewed, as was a single Swallow and with the wander taking the route from the Main Hide through towards the Frinton end of the site, a Cetti’s Warbler and 8+ Stonechats were additions.  The off-shore movement also proved to be slow with counts of 1 Red-throated Diver, 3 Brent Geese and some 45 Wigeon (the latter in two groups). PL.

5th/6th/7th – No reports returned.

8th – A nice find for birder Matt Turner this morning was a “cracking adult/near ad” Caspian Gull* that was located on the Scrape.  A further surprise for observers was that by 12.59hrs, there was a second 4W Caspian Gull viewable with the original bird. MT/PRD.  Further reported counts for this morning were those of 1 Water Rail (heard by the hide), 2 Turnstones, 3 Snipe, 4 Golden Plovers (the latter flew over towards sea at 08.15hrs) and the White-fronted Goose (the Greenland – once again back on the Haven scrape), also 2 Stonechats (1pr by hide) and some 28 Skylarks.  A female Marsh Harrier was seen to hunt near to the Scrape, while a pale Common Buzzard was also in the vicinity. MT.

9th – No reports returned.

10th – Today’s site visit, also included the surveying for a WeBS count – this provided 1 Curlew, 5 Snipe, 14 Blk-T Godwits and 130 Lapwings, 2 Shelducks, 15 Mallards, 120 Wigeon and 255 Teal, 2 Mute Swans, 2 Cormorants and 3 Greylag Geese.  These observations also yielded singles of Cetti’s Warbler, Stonechat, Sparrowhawk, Marsh Harrier and Common Buzzard. SC/PC/MR/MM/JH.

11th – Through to the Raised Golf Tee was the route for this morning’s observations and gave of particular interest, a very late in the season ‘Whinchat’ - located along the edge of the Golf Course, this bird was with 2 Stonechats.  The return wander yielded a Med Gull (ad), while viewing from the Main Hide added 2 Peregrines, both the latter “causing havoc over the back fields”.   The Scrape itself was quiet with just 7 Blk-T Godwits of note, alongside the usual Teal and Wigeon.  Apart from singles of Goldcrest and Redwing and not for the want of trying, the trees and bushes failed to provide anything else to report. PL.

12th – The Scrape this morning, supplied yet another 4W Caspian Gull and observers’ views of the bird gave the notes that “incredibly it appears to be a different bird to the two there on 8th”. PRD.

13th/14th/15th/16th – No reports returned.

17th -

As at 30th November 2018 the Haven 2018 Year List stands at ---. 

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Site Year Tick*

OCTOBER 2018 

1st/2nd/3rd/4th/5th/6th – No reports returned.

7th – An initial report this morning gave a Ring Ouzel (male) in the Dell at just prior to 09.00hrs. IM.  With several observers on the site today, many of the site’s areas and the coastline were surveyed, while a Ringing Session took place too.  Overall, there was a good selection of species plus three further additions for the Haven 2018 Year List.  A seawatch from 07.20 to 09.45hrs, supplied notables 

of 1 Red-breasted Merganser (fem. N), 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Great Skua (Bonxie) and 5 Common Scoter all S, 14 Gannets (12N+2S) and “lingering together” were 3 Med Gulls (3x 1W). LD.  The Scrape was noted as quiet – counts gave the White-fronted Goose (Greenland) still in-situ, 1 Med Gull (ad), 18 Blk-T Godwits, a few Teal and 16 Wigeon.  Setting off to the Frinton end of the site (N boundary) with eyes to the skies - further to news of a Southerly bound Osprey* from/over Felixstowe and passing both the Naze and Frinton – flying high S, the bird was seen from the Haven and ticked.  Along the route to/from the end of the site, viewed species included 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Wheatear, 5 Stonechats and 25 Siskin (latter being in four groups) and also some 30 Curlew on the Marsh.  The bushes, hedgerows and generally around/over the site provided 2 Blackcaps, 4 Chiffchaff, 4 Redwings and 10+ Jays, 4 Grey Wagtails (latter 

at Sewage Farm), 2 House Martins, 5 Swallows and a Peregrine.House  The second of today’s Year Ticks’ was that of a Yellow-browed Warbler* – well at least three of these particular birds, not just the one.  One such was located by the Dipping Pond (PRD), another by 

the Feeding Station near the Sewage Farm (PL) and which showed all afternoon, while the third was along the seafront in the Tamarisk.  Bringing the report to the day’s third 2018 Year Tick which was of Brambling* when 4 of them flew over and then briefly perched up. PL/ML/IM/PRD/MR.  A mid-afternoon/early evening seawatching session (15.00-17.30hrs) provided noted counts of 1 Arctic Skua, 2 

Black-throated Divers, 2 Gannets and 6 Cormorants, 6 Med Gulls, 4 Shelducks, 10 Wigeon, 30 Common Scoter and 475 Brent Geese. IM/PL/ML/MR.  The Ringing Session which took place 10.15 to 12.45hrs, involved some thirty-one birds of six species, ringed twenty-one 

and had ten re-traps.  The counts for these birds were of Goldcrest (+1), 1 Robin, 2 Dunnock, 3 L-T Tits (+1), 7 Great Tits (+3) and 8 Blue Tits (+5). SC.

8th – The highlight of today was when Pete Davis located/had a Citrine Wagtail* calling as it flew SW over the Platform (Memorials)

area at 10.55hrs.  The bird (no. 171 for 2018) was subsequently noted ‘seconds later’ as it flew over the ‘cafe’ below/right of the 

Clacton Sailing Club (Haven seafront).  This is only the second record ever, of a Citrine Wagtail at the Haven site.  The first being that of 7th May 2006 when one was located on the Scrape while those in a fairly packed Main Hide were viewing the earlier ‘drop-in’ of three Temminck's Stints.’  A superb bird for today, along with a very surprised and shocked observer/finder. PRD.  The viewpoint during a Ringing Session this morning, gave just a Med Gull seen flying towards the Scrape and only a few Finches and Pipits “on the move”.  Unfortunately, the winds were higher than expected, so the nets were somewhat obvious to most feathered friends and only seven birds 

of five species were ringed – being 1 Blue Tit, 1 Wren, 1 Reed Bunting, 2 Goldfinches and 2 Meadow Pipits. SC/PC.

9th – Today’s visit was again in conditions more windy than expected, thus making the bushes and hedgerows “hard work” for the observers and supplied just a Song Thrush and 2 Chiffchaffs of note amongst the normal culprits.  The beach area below the Clacton Sailing Club (top of Dell) gave a single Wheatear.  Moving through to the Main Hide, the Scrape, surrounding area and skyline yielded 23 Blk-T Godwits and 30 Lapwings, 30 Wigeon and c140 Teal, the White-fronted (Greenland), a Canada and c220 Greylag Geese, 1 Stonechat, 2 Kestrels and 2 Common Buzzards.  The Wildlife front got a mention with the finding of a Dark Bush Cricket along the track near to the Mounds, while a Speckled Wood Butterfly was also seen.  Notes to the Wildlife gave that there have been a good number of Butterflies this recent week, including Comma and Small Copper and in regards to Dragonflies – there have been lots of Migrant Hawkers, Common and Ruddy Darters. TS/DW/MR.  A Yellow-browed Warbler was located today “to the right of the first ramp along the Approach Road”.  Also viewed during this particular visit, over/above the earlier report were counts of 1 Rock Pipit and 8 Meadow Pipits, a Brent Goose flying S and also 2 Stonechats (+/- the earlier bird). MT.

10th - A visit and survey today yielded counts for both birds and other wildlife.  From the Main Hide the viewing again included that of the White-fronted Goose (Greenland) which was in amongst the Greylag Geese, also a lot of Lapwings on the arable, Kestrel, Common Buzzard and Marsh Harrier – the Harrier hunting “close in” at 12.30hrs.  Of note there was a large flock of Starlings feeding in the cattle pasture, while “hawking for insects over a wide area with Black-headed Gulls” were at least 3 Med Gulls (1W, 2W+ Ad birds seen).  The hedges (by ditch below carpark) gave 2 Redwings that were heard/not seen, a Grey Wagtail flew over the Sluice Cottages towards the Sewage Farm, a single Swallow was around the Sluice and 2 Stonechats were visible in the Reed-bed in front of the Second Hide.  The Wildlife front featured Migrant Hawker Dragonflies and 2 Silver Y Moths, as well as 1 Red Admiral, 1 Common Blue (male), 3 Speckled Wood and 3 Brown Argus Butterflies.  Of the latter, both the Common Blue and 2 of the Brown Argus were located on the other side of the road (opposite Approach Road). GB.

11th – At least three observers were on and around the site today with joint reports provided.  A lot of Thrushes were apparently around early on but the increase of the winds made the slightly later surveying of the bushes “almost impossible”.  The route to the Main Hide did however give a single Stonechat on the Mounds.  Across the Scrape and surrounding area were counts of 2 Curlew and 27 Blk-T Godwits, 1 Tufted Duck (drake), 21 Wigeon and 210 Teal, 1 White-fronted (Greenland), 1 Canada and 260 Greylag Geese, 1 Grey Heron and 2 Mute Swans.  Of particular note, amongst the Black-headed and Herring Gulls were some 14 G B B Gulls. MR/ML.  During coffee-break time down at the cafe (below/right of Clacton Sailing Club), a few Brent Geese were viewed off-shore, while the following 80 minute seawatch from the Shelter yielded 1 Guillemot* flying N, 1 Gannet going S, 525+ Brent Geese passing by and sitting on the sea during this time were 2 Common Gulls. MR/ML/PNt.

12th – No reports returned.

13th – Of particular note today, a Grey Phalarope* (PL) was located on the Scrape.  Originally viewable from the Main Hide, the bird was present until c14.00hrs although some viewing of it was necessary from outside the hide and/or further up the slope towards the turret. Counts across the Scrape and surrounding area also included 1 Snipe, 10 Blk-T Godwits, 1 Shoveler, the White-fronted Goose (Greenland) and 2 Med Gulls (Ad+1W), as well as a Cetti’s Warbler and a “posing” Kingfisher. PL/AD/MR/ML/SN/BL/et.al.  The weather proved too windy for surveying anything in/on the bushes and hedgerows, although a single Redwing and 2 Goldcrests were noted.  The walk through to the Frinton end of the site provided a further five noted species along the route and back – these being of 2 Whinchats and 5 Stonechats, 25 Siskin (flyovers in 4 groups), 5 House Martins and 10 Swallows. PL.  The Wildlife front gave a Clouded Yellow Butterfly near to the Main Hide and elsewhere on the site, several Red Admiral Butterflies. PL/AD.

14th – A few observers on and around the site again today with a seawatch, WeBS count and general surveying taking place.  Unfortunately, there was no further sign of yesterday’s Phalarope.  The seawatching report – carried out from the Shelter on the Greensward (07.20-10.30hrs) – gave that it was “generally quiet” with noted birds being an Arctic Skua S and both a Gannet and a 

Long-Tailed Skua* N, the latter being a juvenile “initially with Black-headed Gulls... moving slowly N ...feeding ...sitting on sea”.  Of further interest flying S, were 2 Sand Martins. LD.  The WeBS count provided 2 Grey Herons and 5 Cormorants, 7 Snipe, 23 Blk-T Godwits and 76 Lapwings, 1 Shoveler, 8 Mallards, 36 Wigeon and 150 Teal, 1 Canada and 133 Greylag Geese (seen very close in to the Main Hide yesterday, there was no sign during this WeBS of the Greenland White-front).  The Gulls consisted of 2 Mediterranean, 4 

L B B, 80 Herring and 335 Black-headed. SC/MR.  A survey that began with the bushes and hedgerows first thing today and subsequently followed the routes through to the Golf Course and back, found that during the former, the Alexandrine Parakeet (escaped bird) was once again on the site and “happily munching blackberries”.  Counts in these particular areas, also gave 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Brambling, 4 Blackcaps, 3 Song Thrushes, 6 Redwings and 10+ Blackbirds.  The walk to the Golf Course added another Haven 2018 Year Tick with views of 4 “stunning” Bearded Tits* (2m+2fem), also 1 Whinchat and 5 Stonechats, 30+ Reed Buntings and a single Swallow.  The return wander yielded 4 Med Gulls (+/- the ‘WeBS’ birds), a Peregrine (fem), a Marsh Harrier and a total of 5 Common Buzzards. PL.  The Haven 2018 Year List currently stands at 175.

15th / 16th – No reports returned.

17th – A Ringing Session took place this morning (07.00-c13.00hrs) involving forty-nine birds of four species, of which just two birds were re-traps.  The counts were of 1 Wren, 1 Blue Tit (+2), 18 Meadow Pipits and 27 Reed Buntings.  “Regularly perching on the mist-net poles” 3 Stonechats defied the actual nets and the receiving of new rings and could only be reported as birds seen during the session - along with totals of some 40+ Reed Buntings, 50+ Meadow Pipits, a single House Martin and c20 Swallows. SC/PC.  During these same hours, a 

S E Owl was seen to fly in/off before going to ground and a Wheatear was also viewed. MR.  An afternoon visit and observations (13.45-16.00hrs) yielded 1 Dunlin, 1 Common Sandpiper, 4 Snipe and 16 Blk-T Godwits, 1 Siskin, 2 Grey Wagtails and 3 Rock Pipits, as well as a Common Buzzard and 2 S E Owls (the latter being +/- the earlier owl). SG.

18th – A late afternoon into early evening visit (16.00-18.00hrs) noted 2 S E Owls hunting over the meadows near to the Main Hide and also a Snipe. MT.

19th – Of particular note today, a Hen Harrier was viewed over the site. MM.

20th – The first report in for the morning, was that of a Hen Harrier over the Scrape at c10.00hrs. JH.  A Ringing Session that took place from 07.00-12.15hrs, involved forty birds of seven species and included three re-traps.  The re-traps were all Reed Buntings with one from 2015, one from 2017 and the third from seven weeks ago.  The overall counts from this session were of 1 Blue Tit, 1 Robin, 1 Linnet, 2 Goldcrests, 5 Meadow Pipits, 8 Lesser Redpolls and 19 Reed Buntings (+3).  It was noted that “probably 15-20 Redpolls passed through the Ringing area” – including those ringed during this time. SC/PC/KO.  Surveying the ‘top end’ of the carpark initially today, provided singles of Chiffchaff, Blackcap and Cetti’s Warbler, 8 Goldcrests plus 2 Fieldfares and 7 Redwings.  Walking through to the Golf Course and the return journey gave some 8 Swallows over this period, as well as a Sparrowhawk, 2 Marsh Harriers and 4 Common Buzzards.  A Bearded Tit was a ‘heard only’ species, while a Wheatear featured, a Rock Pipit was on the seawall and there were ‘probably’ 3prs Stonechats on the site.  The Sewage Farm area supplied a Grey Wagtail and once again the escaped Alexandrine Parakeet.  The Scrape held 1 Little Egret, 8 Snipe, 10 Blk-T Godwits, a few Wigeon and 100+ Teal and also gave the surprise bird of the day - a Great White Egret that “walked into view over the back of the Scrape for 10 minutes before flying off W”. PL.  Taking the route from the Golf Course up to the Farm and back (16.00-17.30hrs) supplied views of 3 Wheatears, 105 Skylarks, 1 S E Owl, a juvenile Honey Buzzard* (“in from Hamford Water direction. S of Farm and continuing W”), as well as a Marsh Harrier (juv), a Ringtail Hen Harrier and 3 Common Buzzards – the latter three species +/- the earlier reported birds. PBr.

21st – A visit and survey this afternoon (14.00-16.45hrs) yielded noted counts of 11 Curlew, 17 Snipe and 18 Blk-T Godwits, 2 Med Gulls (ads), 1 S E Owl, 1 Common Buzzard and 1 Sparrowhawk (fem, caught Moorhen on Scrape), also 8 Stonechats.  The Alexandrine Parakeet was still on the site. SG.

22nd – Of particular note today (c14.30hrs) a Swallow “came in from the S and flew around the Sluice Buildings for several minutes actually singing, before flying off SW”.  A Stonechat was also viewed, while the Wildlife front included a Clouded Yellow Butterfly. AT.

23rd – No reports returned.

24th – A bright sunny day that gave rise to a pleasant wander and subsequent survey of the site.  The Dell provided a Gt. Spotted Woodpecker and 2 Stonechats (pr), while nearby a count of 4 Fieldfares dropped in and the rocks below Clacton Sailing Club held 3 Turnstones.  Still near to the Feeding Station was the escapee Alexandrine Parakeet and the Mounds gave another Stonechat (day total of 3). MR.  Viewing from the Main Hide gave counts of 3 Snipe, 21 Blk-T Godwits and 100+ Lapwings, 57 Wigeon, c220 Teal and c200 Greylag Geese across the Scrape and surrounding marsh.  Visible skyline from this point also yielded 1 S E Owl, 1 Kestrel, 1 Marsh Harrier and 2 Common Buzzards with an additional 2 Fieldfare for the day – seen to fly over W.  A Grey Wagtail was located on the roof of Sluice Cottages, while the carpark bushes further added 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Brambling and 4 Redwings.  Of interest, two colour-ringed Herring Gulls were also noted on the site today, one a Suffolk bird and the other an NTGG/Pitsea bird. PRD/DW/IM/MR.

25th – A Ringing Session this morning (07.00-10.30) involved twenty-three birds of three species and also saw the number of ‘Haven’ ringed Reed Buntings – since 28th August 2018 – reach a count of 100.  Today’s session consisted 1 Wren, 3 Meadow Pipits and 19 Reed Buntings and no re-traps of any species.  During this time and from this particular viewpoint, the observers reported “didn’t see a single finch go through” and “about all of note” were a Green Woodpecker, 2 Stonechats and a few Skylarks. SC/PC.

26th – No reports returned.

27th – Flying over the Shelter and continuing inland, was a Crossbill* at 08.20hrs this morning. ML(via PL/IM).  Two observers undertook an afternoon four-hour seawatching session today (12.15-16.15hrs) in decidedly ‘cool’ temperatures.  The session yielded nine species of particular note - with these offshore counts being of 1 Guillemot, 5 Gannets and 25 Common Gulls, 8 Shelducks, 60 Wigeon and 80 Common Scoter, as well as 150 Brent Geese.  Seen to fly in/off were 2 Pied Wagtails and some 50 Fieldfare. PRD/IM.

28th – Seawatching from the Shelter proved to be a long session today (07.00-15.00hrs), during which some twenty-seven species were noted.  Counts consisted 1 Arctic Tern, 3 Little Gulls, 5 Med Gulls, 30+ Kittiwakes and 30+ Gannets, 2 Curlew, 6 Turnstones, 10 Dunlin and 70 Knot*, 1 Scaup*, 2 Goldeneye*, 3 Shelducks, 4 Eider, 14 Red-breasted Mergansers, 20+ Wigeon and 150+ Common Scoter, 200+ Brent Geese, 3 Guillemots, 1 Black-throated Diver, 1 Manx Shearwater, 2 Arctic Skuas and 5 Pomarine Skuas.  Singles of Goldcrest and Swallow were viewed, as were 6 Fieldfares, 1000+ Starlings and also 2 Sparrowhawks. PL/ML/IM/LD/SC.  Of particular note on the site itself, a Ring Ouzel was located “in the scrub” by the Sluice, while the escaped Alexandrine Parakeet was still near the Sewage Farm and it was further noted that there was an “obvious influx of Goldcrests and Blackbirds”. MJ.

29th – A couple of hours seawatching (pre 10.30hrs) from the Shelter, failed to provide any passing species of particular note. IM.

30th – A “quick walk along the front” was today’s reported visit, which whilst quick, proved fruitful for the observer with views of a Ringtail Hen Harrier (over the marsh), a Yellowhammer* (in/off and landed on a bramble before taking flight S down the coast within two minutes), a Rock Pipit, 2 Stonechats, 6 Reed Buntings and c20 Meadow Pipits. MR.

31st – Rounding up the month of October, observations from a morning visit to the Main Hide, supplied noted counts of 1 Snipe, 3 Turnstones and 6 Blk-T Godwits, 2 Shelducks, 120 Teal and 150 Wigeon, alongside 2 Little Egrets and 7 Mute Swans.  Birds of prey that were viewed in and across the vicinity were those of a Peregrine, a Marsh Harrier and 2 Common Buzzards. IM.

As at 31st October 2018 the Haven 2018 Year List stands at 181. 

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Site Year Tick*

SEPTEMBER 2018 

1st – “A lovely sunrise” was viewed while a Reed-bed Ringing Session (06.30-10.30hrs) took place this morning, during which some 33 birds were ringed and there was a re-trap of 1.  The six species involved were those of 2 Common Whitethroats, 3 Sedge Warblers, 3 Blue Tits (+1), 4 Swallows, 6 Reed Buntings and 15 Reed Warblers.  Of particular interest at c06.30hrs, a flock of 13 Little Egrets were seen to fly “towards Frinton but out over seawall”. SC/PC.  A site visit and observations (10.30-14.30hrs) that also included viewing across the main Scrape, yielded 1 Little Stint, 1 Greenshank, 2 Snipe, 3 Common Sandpipers, 3 Blk-T Godwits, 6 Ruff and 2 Wigeon, 1 Wheatear (sea wall), 1 Redstart (Fem in Orchard area) and at least 200 Swallows (on the wires).  Birds of prey were those of 1 Hobby, 1 Peregrine and 6 Common Buzzards. BL.

2nd – At least three observers were on and around the site this morning and their subsequent surveys located a Pied Flycatcher (briefly on corner of Ringing Compound/Brook), 2 Stonechats (juvs) by the Radar Tower and 2 Redstarts in the Orchard area, while the trees and bushes generally, held 1 Willow Warbler, 5 Blackcaps, 6 Lesser and 6 Common Whitethroats of note.  Overhead movement during the morning, included that of 1 Swift, 2 Sand and 100+ House Martins.  Surveying across the Scrape (Main Hide) provided counts of a juvenile Coot, the Little Stint, 2 Green and 3 Common Sandpipers, 4 Snipe, 4 Blk-T Godwits and still 6 Ruff, alongside a single Wigeon, 6 Shoveler and 55 Teal.  Also noted from this viewpoint were 4 Whinchats, singles of Sparrowhawk and Marsh Harrier and a total of 12 Common Buzzards. MR/PL/IM.

3rd/4th – No reports returned.

10th – The day began with a Ringing Session (06.30-08.30hrs) near to the Dell, where some fourteen birds of three species were ringed.  The counts being of 3 Chiffchaffs, 4 Blue Tits and 7 Blackcaps. SC.

11th – At least three observers were on and around the site today with the Greensward, the Scrape and areas through towards the Frinton end being surveyed.  A Redstart (fem type) was located in the Greensward bushes near to the Radar Pylon, 1 Wheatear (Moth Sanctuary), 2 Stonechats (Mounds) and a total of 8 Whinchats were seen (2xMounds+4xMoth Sanctuary+2xSeafront towards Frinton), while viewing from the Main Hide added a Yellow Wagtail, 30+ Sand Martins and 30+ Swallows, a Hobby (hunting Dragonflies over the Scrape), 2 Sparrowhawks and 2 Common Buzzards.  Wader counts for the Scrape were of 1 Green and 3 Common Sandpipers, 5 Ruff and 8 Blk-T Godwits, these being alongside 2 Shoveler, 6 Wigeon, c70 Teal, 12 Canada and 150+ Greylag Geese. MR/PRD.  A slightly later morning visit to the Main Hide, gave additions for the Scrape of 1 Coot and a 1W Med Gull, with the Greylag Geese at this time numbering 210 (inc. 2 “manky ones”). SC.

13th – A Ringing Session this morning (06.45-11.45hrs) involved seven species and forty-three birds.  Newly ringed today were those of 2 Blue Tits, 2 Reed Buntings, 1 Willow Warbler, 7 Reed Warblers, 17 Meadow Pipits, 2 House Martins and 12 Swallows.  During this time, singles of Wheatear and Whinchat were noted, a “steady passage of Meadow Pipits” was seen, estimated to be 120 in number, while over/through the site were 200/300 mix of Swallows and House Martins. SC.  A Hobby was given to be on/over site. PRD/ML(via SC).  Viewed on the Scrape today were 2 colour-ringed Herring Gulls, being Suffolk birds VUK and WLA. MR.

14th – Of note today, an early but fairly brief Ringing Session - near to the Dell - involved six birds of three species.  A ‘re-trap’ was a Goldcrest from an August (PNt) Haven session, while new rings this morning, were for a Goldfinch and 4 Blackcaps. SC.  On the Scrape today was a colour-ringed Herring Gull, being NTGG bird: M2MT. MR. 

15th - No reports returned.

16th – Today’s report gave that the bushes were quiet with just singles of Blackcap and Lesser Whitethroat noted.  Moving through to observe the Scrape, this and the surrounding area proved to hold singles of both Green and Common Sandpipers, 2 Dunlin, 2 Ruff, 7 Curlew (Curlew on marsh), 8 Snipe, 20 Blk-T Godwits and 90 Lapwings, along with 1 Coot, 80+ Teal and 36 Canada Geese.  Surveying along the route to the Golf Course and back again, added 1 Whinchat and 4 Wheatears, as well as 3 Turnstones and 2 Shoveler.  Noted Southerly passage, consisted of 1 Sand Martin with 50+ House Martins plus 25 Swallows. PL.

17th – A Ringing Session from 06.30 to 09.30hrs was at the Reed-bed location but the wind was not helpful by any means.  Just six birds, being 2 Reed Warblers, 2 Sedge Warblers and 2 Reed Buntings were ringed.  During this session, observations included those of a Stonechat and 3 Whinchats – with all four “on the same bush, N of the netting rides”.  A single Sand Martin and a c40 mix of Swallows and House Martins were noted. SC.  Of further note, a Spotted Flycatcher was viewed on the Mounds. MR.

18th – No reports returned.

19th – Of note, 2 Spotted Flycatchers were located in the Orchard, while a colour-ringed Herring Gull (NTGG bird: G1MT) was seen on the Scrape. MR.

20th – A visit and report for today gave that the Scrape and surrounding area – as viewed from the Main Hide – held singles of Grey Heron, Coot (juv) and Curlew, 2 Ruff, 2 Common Sandpipers, 8 Snipe, 31 Blk-T Godwits and c40 Lapwings, along with 4 Wigeon, c40 Teal, 1 Canada Goose and c200 Greylag Geese.  Also seen from this viewpoint were 2 Common Buzzards.  A Spotted Flycatcher was noted, while notes also included that “2 Whinchats have been on the Mounds, a further 4 along the front with similar numbers of Wheatear”. The Wildlife front, for the second time this week, gave an Otter that was in the pond near to the hide. MR.  (The Haven 2018 Year List currently stands at 164).

21st – No reports returned.

22nd – Observations today were from during a walk to the Northern boundary and back along the seawall, from viewing offshore, across the Main Scrape, surveying the trees and bushes and also from a seawatching session – all of which proved to yield a good variety of species through into the early afternoon.  ‘Close offshore’ movements of two groups of Spoonbills (6 then 9) were both superb records – the birds having been viewed/reported further up/down the coast prior to/after flight past the Haven.  Marsh Harriers at a count of 4, were noted “in the air together”.  A Little Egret and 5 Curlew, 1 Grey and 1 Yellow Wagtail were listed, as were a Stonechat, 2 Rock Pipits, 6 Wheatears, 7 Whinchats and 35 Siskin (in 3 flocks), while moving S all morning, the Meadow Pipits totalled “several hundred”.  The hedgerows gave singles of Goldcrest, Willow Warbler, Reed Warbler, Common and Lesser Whitethroat, 6 Blackcaps and 10+ Chiffchaff, while the Scrape supplied 1 Coot, 1 Ruff, 2 Snipe and 25 Blk-T Godwits.  Seawatching from 11.20-13.00hrs added 3 Gannets that flew N – all else notable was flying S and consisted of 1 Turnstone, 1 Bar-T Godwit, 2 Dunlin, 2 Grey Plovers, 1 Arctic Tern, 20 Sandwich Terns and a single Arctic Skua. PL/ML/MM.

23rd – Visits and surveying today gave 3 Chiffchaffs and 5 Blackcaps around the trees and bushes before the rain set in this morning, while the Scrape areas provided 1 Ruff, 2 Dunlin, 2 Curlew, 4 Snipe and 6 Blk-T Godwits, along with 3 Wigeon and 50 Teal, also a Med Gull.  Seawatching took up the time between 09.00 to 11.30hrs, yielding of particular note, a Ringed Plover, 2 Dunlin (day total 4), 3 Med Gulls (day total 4), 6 Common Terns and 15+ Sandwich Terns, 4 Gannets, 4 Common Scoter, a Pomarine Skua* and some 50+ House Martins. PL/ML/MM.  During a mid-afternoon visit, a Manx Shearwater* was viewed. PRD.

24th – The Reed-bed area was host to a Ringing Session this morning (06.30-11.15hrs) where some twenty-two birds of eight species were involved, one of these being a re-trap.  These birds consisted of 1 House Martin and 4 Swallows, 3 Blue Tits (+1), 1 Whinchat, 2 Sedge Warblers, 3 Reed Warblers, 3 Meadow Pipits and 4 Reed Buntings.  During this time, noted sightings were of 1 Ringed Plover (flyover, calling), 2 Snipe (over reed-bed), 1 Little Egret, 1+ Siskin, 2 Sand Martins, c30 Swallows and c220 House Martins.  Birds of Prey were those of 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Peregrine, 1 Marsh Harrier and 2 Kestrels. SC/PC.  The first of two seawatching sessions today (08.30-10.00hrs) yielded 30 Gannets (N), 5 Wigeon and 10 Teal, 2 Med Gulls and 10+ Sandwich Terns.  The bushes gave counts of 1 Common and 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Blackcaps, 6 Chiffchaffs and a Gt. Spotted Woodpecker, while the viewing across the Scrape and surrounding grazing marsh plus the skyline, added 2 Snipe, 3 Dunlin and 10 Blk-T Godwits, 1 Pintail (fem) and 100+ Teal, 1 Marsh Harrier and 5 Common Buzzards, also 20 Swallows and 100+ House Martins (the latter two species and the Harrier being +/- those from the ‘Ringing Session’ observations). PL.  The second seawatch of the day (10.20-14.50hrs) added further noted counts and species of 21 Brent Geese and 31 Cormorants flying S, while those heading N were 1 Purple Sandpiper, a Great Skua (Bonxie), the latter bird being at 13.25hrs and also 83 Gannets.  A Common Buzzard was seen to fly in/off, a Peregrine was “chasing prey over the sea” and on the rocks during this time, there was a single Turnstone. IM.

25th – Beginning with a Ringing Session (06.30-11.30hrs) where some forty-one birds of nine species were involved, including one re-trap.  These consisted of 1 Wren, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Buntings, 6 Meadow Pipits, 7 House Martins and 21 Swallows, along with Great Tit (+1).  Sightings during this session included c100+ hirundines “more Swallows than House Martins today” and also 20+ Meadow Pipits around the area. SC.  A day that attracted many observers to the site, saw another bird added to the Haven 2018 Year List (no. 167) this morning - in the form of a White-fronted Goose* (race: Greenland) which was located on the Scrape.  A Little Gull (juv) also featured in this vicinity alongside 1 Common Sandpiper, 6 Snipe, 14 Blk-T Godwits and 60+ Teal.  A Stonechat was seen, as were 100+ House Martins, while “over the back fields soaring” were 5 Common Buzzards, 3 Sparrowhawks also noted.  On the sea, close in, – heading towards Frinton – was a juvenile Whooper Swan. PL/PRD.  The trees and bushes initially held singles of Spotted Flycatcher, Lesser and Common Whitethroats, 2 Goldcrests, 7 Blackcaps and 20+ Chiffchaffs. PL.  Blk-T Godwits had increased to 17 (visit 11.30-12.30hrs) and further notes added 50+ Lapwings, 100+ Greylag Geese and a Kestrel. LH.  An afternoon survey found that both the White-fronted Goose and the Little Gull were still in-situ and a Hobby was viewed as it flew around/over the Scrape catching Dragonflies (13.20hrs).  Stonechat numbers increased to 2 (different places).  On the Wildlife front, a Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was on the hedge alongside the Sewage Farm. GB.

26th – Surveying and reporting for today, gave that “everything seemed as per yesterday”.  The trees and hedgerows held the Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Lesser and 2 Common Whitethroats, 4 Blackcaps and 10+ Chiffchaffs, while near to the Raised Platform (by Memorials) was a Whinchat.  Visible migration over/through was just a few of each House Martins and Swallows. PL.  Of particular note, the White-fronted Goose (Greenland) was again on the scrape. PRD.

27th – Another day with many observers on and around the site – in bright sunny conditions.  A Ringing Session (06.30-11.30hrs) proved successful with sixty-one birds ringed and three re-traps.  The birds involved were 1 Great Tit (+1), Blue Tit (+2), 2 Chiffchaffs, 3 Reed Buntings, 19 Swallows and 36 House Martins.  During this time “the usual Sparrowhawk whizzed past”, while “very little Pipit or Finch passage” was seen from the ringing area.  Also from this viewpoint, the several hundred hirundines noted, were more House Martins than Swallows – the latter also reflected in later reports. SC/PC.  Surveying along the walk through to the Golf Course this morning provided counts of 4 Whinchats (between Main Hide/Golf Course Dump), 10+ Stonechats, 1 Med Gull (ad), 1 Marsh Harrier and 2 Common Buzzards.  Flyovers/through movement included those of 1 Sand Martin, 2 Siskin, “lots of” Swallows and at least 1000+ House Martins.  The trees and bushes yielded singles of Spotted Flycatcher (still near Raised Platform/Memorials), 1 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcaps and a few Chiffchaffs.  Viewing across the Scrape and surrounding areas, gave the White-fronted Goose (Greenland) for its third day, 2 Snipe, 44 Blk-T Godwits, 100+ Lapwings and 50+ Teal of note. PL/et.al.  Additional noted species and numbers during a survey from 10.30-12.30hrs, were of 2 Goldcrests, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Kestrels, 1 Shoveler and 8 Wigeon, while Snipe had increased to 7 and Blk-T Godwits had increased to 54. LH.  On the Wildlife front, four species of Butterfly were noted on the site today – being those of 1 Clouded Yellow, 1 Small Copper, 2 Brown Argus and 2 Red Admirals. MR/IM.

28th – A few observers on the site again today – one of whom (DS) did a very full day of seawatching and was joined for some of the duration by others.  Of particular note, a count of 4 Manx Shearwaters (all N) were seen between 11.45-14.30hrs, a Great Skua (Bonxie) flew past at 17.30hrs and 2 Red-breasted Mergansers were further notable species. DS.  Through to c14.00hrs, the offshore passage included 1 Hobby (in/off) and 1 Bar-T Godwit, flying S early on in the day were 2 Arctic Skuas, 10 Gannets flew N and also passing by the Haven coastline were some 20+ Sandwich Terns.  Teal, Wigeon and Brent Geese were viewed - albeit each of these in “a few small groups”. DS/PL/PRD/et-al.  For the fourth day, the White-fronted Goose (Greenland) was in-situ on the Scrape. PRD.  (Further updates to the ‘all day’ seawatch through to at least 18.45hrs, may yet be added).

29th – A Ringing Session today was 06.00-11.15hrs and although involving fewer birds (20) than of late, there were still seventeen receiving new rings and three re-traps.  These counts were of 1 Stonechat, 1 Whinchat, 3 Reed Buntings, 5 Swallows and 7 Meadow Pipits, along with Reed Warbler (+1) and Blue Tit (+2).  Observations during this time gave a Green Woodpecker, 15+ Reed Buntings, 40+ Linnets and “a trickle of” Swallows. SC/PC.  A joint report from a survey of and from the site yielded 2 Arctic Skuas and 4 Gannets N, a “few small groups” of Wigeon and also 10 Siskins S during an early seawatch, while on site, the bushes could only notably give 2 Blackcaps and 3 Chiffchaffs.  The Sewage Farm area added a Grey Wagtail.  The Scrape and surrounding grazing marsh held 20 Blk-T Godwits and 25 Curlew, 1 Gadwall, 7 Wigeon, 120 Teal and once again, the White-fronted Goose (Greenland).  Noted as “a little bit of excitement” a Parakeet near the Sewage Farm, unfortunately upon closer viewing, proved to be confirmed by the observers as form ‘Alexandrine’ and therefore an escaped bird (someone left a cage door or window open somewhere!), subsequently also invalid for a tick on the Haven Year List.  It does however join a list of the likes of various coloured Budgerigars, Cockatiels etc., that have over the years been seen at/over the Haven.  The Wildlife front gets another mention today – offshore views included that of a Porpoise - with extra notes that 2 or 3 have been around the last few days. IM/ML/PL.  A visit 13.45-15.45hrs, gave over/above additions of 2 Snipe, 1 Peregrine (on Scrape island), 2 Kestrels, 2 Sparrowhawks (bushes either side of Scrape) and 6 Common Buzzards (field beyond Scrape).  Heading S offshore were 16 Brent Geese. BL.

30th – A visit 07.30-10.00hrs this morning gave noted species of 1 Wheatear, 2 Stonechats and 8 Meadow Pipits, 2 Turnstones, c50 

Blk-T Godwits and a Sparrowhawk. MT.   

As at 30th September 2018 the Haven 2018 Year List stands at 167.

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Site Year Tick*

AUGUST 2018 

1st – Today’s reports start with that from a Ringing Session (reed-beds) from 06.45-10.30hrs.  A total of four species and 19 birds were involved and consisted of 1 Swallow, 2 Common Whitethroats, 6 Reed Warblers and 10 Sedge Warblers. SC/PC.  During this session, at c07.00hrs, a Great White Egret* was seen to “fly in over the seawall, across the Scrape and was last seen over Pickers Ditch area”, it was unknown as to if the bird had landed or not. This GWE becomes number 157 on the Haven 2018 Year List. PC.  A survey across the Scrape also noted that the water levels appear to have stopped rising (further to the storms and the installation of a new solar pump) and that both the “Geese and Herons like the new wet area”.  The counts were of 1 Avocet, 1 Blk-T Godwit, 1 Curlew, 1 Oystercatcher, 2 Ruff and 18 Lapwings, alongside 1 Shoveler, 3 Shelducks, 14 Canada and 16 Greylag Geese.  The Gulls numbered 3 LBB, 20 Herring and 143 Black-headed, while 3 Grey Herons were in the vicinity and of 13 Cormorants, 4 were on the Scrape and 9 flew in/off and over the site.  Singles of both Kestrel and Common Buzzard were also viewed this morning.  The Wildlife front gave 2 Wasp Spiders (along the front near the Second Hide) and Kirby Brook held 2 Southern Migrant Hawker Dragonflies as well as both Common and Ruddy Darters.  The Dipping Pond (lower car-park) yielded a Southern Hawker Dragonfly. MR.

2nd – At least two observers visited the site today and reported species for the trees and bushes and also for the Scrape.  The Dell, 

car-park areas and up to the top wood and orchard yielded of note, 1 Lesser and 3 Common Whitethroats in the former with a few of each Greenfinch and Goldfinch nearby, while number 158 on the Haven 2018 year List, a Treecreeper*, was located (c08.46hrs) by the orchard, with additional counts being of 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Blackcaps (m+f) and a ‘good size’ flock of Long T-Tits. MR.  The Scrape was much as per yesterday, although only a single Ruff was present amongst the Waders and some 16 Teal‘were new in’. MR/DW.  A Common Sandpiper was further reported. DW.

3rd – A small Ringing Session included the ringing of a Pied Flycatcher, alongside a Goldfinch and a Wood Pigeon. SC/PC.  Overall today, the surveys yielded a very nice count of 7 Pied Flycatchers being 2 over the road (opp. Approach Road), 3 in the top end of the car-park and 2 more in/around the ringing compound.  A Spotted Flycatcher was located near to the orchard.  Also noted for around the trees and bushes were 4 Willow Warblers (all juvs), 4 Blackcaps, 4 Lesser and 12+ Common Whitethroats, while a Whinchat* was viewed over the road.  The Scrape itself is still a little bit ‘high’ on the water levels for some of the Autumn passage Waders and today the “only offerings” for the observers were those of an adult Ruff, 1 Avocet and 1 Blk-T Godwit.  Across the marsh were 13 Whimbrel, that likewise to a Marsh Harrier, made it onto the day’s counts.  The Wildlife front added 2 Clouded Yellow Butterflies that were near to the Second Hide and were the first of this species for the Haven 2018 Year. PL/MR.

4th - Reports today included those for the main site during the day and also for the Farm in the evening.  Noted as ‘fairly quiet’ on the main site, the noted counts for the tree, bushes and hedgerows were of 1 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcaps, 3 Lesser and 9 Common Whitethroats and 10 Willow Warblers.  (No sign of any of yesterday’s Pied Flycatchers).  The Scrape supplied singles of Little Egret, Ruff and Blk-T Godwit, 2 Shoveler and 10 Teal, while the Golf Course yielded 9 Whimbrel.  The Wildlife front provided singles of both Clouded Yellow (Golf Course track) and Painted Lady Butterflies (latter along Approach Road) and the Dipping Pond at the lower end of the car-park gave a Willow Emerald Damselfly, being the first of this species for this current Haven year. TS/ML/MM/PL.  The evening survey at the Farm, saw the addition of 1 Grey Partridge* just past the Paddocks - the bird was on the bridle-path (Farm to Golf Course) and became number 160 on the Haven 2018 Year List.  Also in the vicinity were 1 Gt. Spotted and 2 Green Woodpeckers. ML.

5th – Some changes in the main site species and counts for today’s observers with the trees and bushes providing 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Blackcap, 5 Willow Warblers, 5 Lesser and 6 Common Whitethroats as well as a Gt. Spotted Woodpecker.  Over the fields at the rear of the site, were 2 Marsh Harriers with further noted birds of prey being 4 Common Buzzards.  The Scrape held singles of Snipe, Ruff and Common Sandpiper along with 3 Blk-T Godwits for the Wader counts, 2 Little Egrets and alongside 1 Shoveler and 11 Teal was notably a Pochard.  Additional was a fly-over by a summer plumaged Golden Plover.  The Dragonflies were out and about again today, yielding a Southern Migrant Hawker, several Emperor and 2 Ruddy Darters, while Clouded Yellow Butterflies numbered 2. MR/ML/PL.

6th – Some 200+ Swifts were viewed (14.23hrs) heading SW over the fields/B1032 (bridge/brook areas). KA.

7th – No reports returned.

8th – An afternoon wander from the carpark through to the Frinton end of the site and back - in on/off sun, cloud and very breezy conditions - gave 3+ Wheatears of note (1x first turret & 2+ between the second and third).  The Wildlife front gave nine species of Butterfly being those of Gatekeeper, Small and Large White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood, Green-veined White, Red Admiral and in good numbers, also Common Blues.  Several Ruddy Darter, a couple of Common Darter and 1 Emperor Dragonflies were noted, along with a few Blue-tailed Damselflies. KA/AD.    

9th – No reports returned.

10th – Surveying today supplied a report of the Scrape area, along with notes to confirm that a slight change to the water overflow, has/is providing a little bit of mud to hopefully satisfy a few more waders.  This proved to be the case during today’s Wader observations, which yielded a Little Stint, 1 Green and 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Oystercatchers, 6 Dunlin, 6 Snipe, 15 Blk-T Godwits and 75 Lapwings.  These were alongside counts of 3 Shelducks, 4 Shoveler, 8 Teal, 27 Canada and 33 Greylag Geese, 3 Grey Herons and in amongst “a good selection” of Gulls were 2 Sandwich Terns.  Also in the vicinity were 3 Kestrels. MR.

11th – At least three observers were on and around the site today.  Surveying across the Scrape 09.45-12.30hrs yielded counts of 1 Little Stint, 2 Common Sandpipers, 4 Snipe, 6 Dunlin, 10 Curlew and 18 Blk-T Godwits, while birds of prey in the vicinity and viewable skyline were 1 Kestrel, 1 Marsh Harrier and 3 Common Buzzards.  A total of 5 Wheatears were seen on the first Turret at 10.30hrs. IM/JH.  A late morning into/through afternoon visit gave of note on the Wildlife front, 3 Willow Emerald Damselflies by the Dipping Pond (lower carpark) along with 2+ Small Red-eyed and 3+ Blue-tailed Damselflies, also 1 Ruddy Darter and 3+ Migrant Hawker Dragonflies.  Clouded Yellow Butterflies numbered 2 (‘sea side’ path by Second Hide + another between Main Hide/Sluice), while also by the Second Hide were a Gatekeeper Butterfly and a large Wasp Spider.  Other Butterfly species generally around the site were Small and Large White, Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood (1), Common Blue (several) and Holly Blue (2).  Notable during this time were a count of 8+ Wheatears moving through the site, over/above the morning birds (site day count: 13+). AD.

12th – Visits and surveys by three observers today – a joint report – found that the Little Stint (juv) was still in-situ on the Scrape and was of note, alongside 2 Common Sandpipers, 4 Snipe, 7 Dunlin, 17 Blk-T Godwits and 18 Redshanks, also 5 Shoveler and 12 Teal.  Sand Martin and Swifts (several) were viewed, while the observations during the walk to the Golf Course, added 2 Wheatears and 3 flyover Sandwich Terns, as well as a Wildlife mention – that of a Clouded Yellow Butterfly.  Further bird species consisted of 1 Common Tern, 1 Grey Plover and 8 Ringed Plovers, all being noted in a ‘half-hour’ seawatching session. MR/ML/PL.

13th – Of particular note, the Little Stint was again seen on the Scrape and amongst the Gulls was a Colour-ringed Herring Gull (NTGG ‘V3HT’). MR.

14th – A morning visit to the Main Hide yielded counts of 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 Ruff (juvs), 5 Dunlin, 7 Snipe, 8 Blk-T Godwits and 71 Lapwings, alongside 1 Shelduck, 4 Shoveler and 37 Teal, 25 Canada and 77 Greylag Geese.  Also in the vicinity were 2 Grey Herons, 2 Cormorants, 1 Kestrel, 1 Marsh Harrier and 2 Common Buzzards, as well as a juvenile Cuckoo which was “briefly on the grass in front of the hide”.  Surveying around the site generally, provided noted species of 1 Wheatear, 3 Willow Warblers, 3 Lesser and 5 Common Whitethroats, a few House Martins, c20 Swifts and some c70 Swallows. MR.

15th/16th – No reports returned.

17th – The day began with a Ringing Session (06.45-10.15hrs) which, while the reed-bed area did prove to be ‘slow’, saw a total of thirteen birds ringed.  These were of three species, consisting 3 Sedge Warblers, 4 Reed Warblers and 6 Swallows.  Near the Second Hide during this time were just 2 Wheatears of any note. SC/PC.  On the route to do a survey from the Main Hide, a female Redstart (MR) was located on the Mounds and was still on the site at c10.15hrs. MR/SC/PC.  Observations across the Scrape and surrounding grazing marsh gave singles of Grey Heron, Oystercatcher, Dunlin and Green Sandpiper, 2 Ruff, 2 Blk-T Godwits, 3 Common Sandpipers, 6 Snipe and c60 Lapwings.  Ducks and Geese were those of 1 Shelduck, 24 Teal, 25 Canada and 85 Greylags, while birds of prey were a Kestrel and a Marsh Harrier of note. MR.

18th – Visits today also included that of carrying out a WeBS count, general surveying and two ‘2 hour’ seawatching sessions, one in the morning and another in the afternoon.  The initial count gave totals of 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 Snipe and 1 Dunlin, 2 Ruff, 5 Curlew and 48 Lapwings, along with 2 Shoveler, 3 Shelducks, 13 Mallards and 52 Teal, 25 Canada and 95 Greylag Geese, as well as 9 Cormorants. SC.  Further observations across the Scrape saw increases of Snipe to 3, Common Sandpipers up to 5 and Lapwings up to a total of 60, while over/above additions noted from the Main Hide were of 2 Yellow Wagtails, 1 Sparrowhawk and 2 Marsh Harriers, 10+ Sand Martins, 30+ Swifts and 200+ Swallows.  Surveying during the wander to the Golf Course, yielded a Whinchat and 4 Wheatears, a single Curlew (+/- the first report) and 7 Whimbrel.  A combined report for the two seawatching sessions (4hrs overall), gave totals of 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 Curlew, 1 Bar-T Godwit, 2 Grey Plovers, 3 Dunlin and 3 Turnstones, while some 35+ Oystercatchers were noted ‘in small groups’.  On the Wildlife front, a Southern Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was located at the Dipping pond (lower car-park). PL.

19th – At least three observers were on and around the site this morning - their joint report taking in the viewing of the Scrape, the areas through to the Second Hide and also included the route past the Ringing Compound.  The latter provided a female type Redstart that showed ‘briefly’ near the entrance to same.  The Scrape and surrounding grazing marsh yielded 2 Little Egrets, 2 Ruff, 2 Blk-T Godwits, 2 Whimbrel, 4 Common Sandpipers, 5 Snipe and 80 Lapwings, 2 Shoveler, 3 Shelducks and 70 Teal on note, along with 1 Hobby, 1 Yellow Wagtail and 1 Stonechat (juv), while an unusual sight from this viewpoint, was a group of some 15 Corn Buntings.  “Lots of Hirundines again” were noted and consisted of 10 House Martins, 30+ Sand Martins and 300+ Swallows.  Swifts over/through during this time were 40+.  Near to the Second Hide were the additions of 2 Whinchats and 3 Wheatears. MR/IM/PL.  (Of note, the Haven 2018 Year List currently stands at 160).

20th – No reports returned.

21st - The latter part of the morning, c11.48hrs, saw the locating of both a Pied Flycatcher and a Spotted Flycatcher together in the large Elder in the rear garden of the Sluice Cottages (viewed from the site). PRD.  An evening visit to the Farm gave of note, a Corn Bunting in the Paddocks and 10 Golden Plovers (in summer plumage) on the arable. PL.

22nd – A survey, with limited time this morning, took in the areas over the road (opp. & up from 

the Approach Road) and the trees, bushes and carpark/surround on the main site.  The former 

area supplied a juvenile Coot that was in the brook by the road bridge and on the Wildlife front, 

there were a couple of Small Heath Butterflies and ‘quite a few’ Migrant Hawker Dragonflies.  

The bushes yielded 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Common Whitethroat and 2 Lesser 

Whitethroats, while also situated in the carpark were 2 Wheatears.  Passing through all morning, 

were a few of each House Martin, Sand Martin and Swift.  A Sparrowhawk was noted, as was a 

count of 6 Common Buzzards that were viewed ‘soaring over the back arable’. PL.  With at least 

two other observers visiting the site today, a juvenile Yellow-Legged Gull was one of the noted 

species on the Scrape. PRD/TS.  The Waders viewed from the Main Hide this morning, consisted of 

1 Greenshank, 1 Redshank, 1 Ringed Plover and a Blk-T Godwit, 2 Ruff (juvs), 3 Green and 4 Common Sandpipers, 6 Dunlin and 10+ Snipe, alongside the Ducks and Geese of which these were counts of 3 Shelducks (juvs), 3 Shoveler, 30+ Teal and c150 Greylags.  Some 30+ Sand Martins and 100+ Swallows were also noted during this survey. PRD.

23rd – Day 1 of Clacton Airshow 2018.  Observations across the Scrape this morning, prior to the rainfall, gave noted views of 1 LRP (juv), 1 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 Ruff (juvs), 2 Blk-T Godwits (juvs), 3 Dunlin, 4 Common Sandpipers and 9+ Snipe, alongside 2 Shoveler, 3 Shelducks (juvs) and 25+ Teal.  Some 24 Canada Geese were in the vicinity, as were 4 Cormorants. PRD.

24th – Day 2 of Clacton Airshow 2018.  No reports returned.

25th - No reports returned.

26th – A visit by one observer and a subsequent seawatching session from 09.00-13.30hrs produced of note 2 Commic and 10 Sandwich Terns, 1 Arctic Skua N (ad. pale phase) and 2 Great Skuas (Bonxies)* heading S. LD.  A visit to the Main Hide and a survey of the Scrape and surrounding grazing marsh, yielded a Wader count of 1 Redshank, 1 Curlew, 2 Ruff, 2 Greenshanks, 3 Blk-T Godwits, 4 Common Sandpipers, 6 Dunlin and 12 Snipe, alongside Ducks and Geese that consisted of 57 Teal, 8 Canada and 160 Greylags.  A Sandwich Tern was also in the vicinity, while the skyline/flyover activity included 2 Swifts, 10 Sand and 12 House Martins and c50 Swallows. MR.

27th – A few observers were on and around the site during this morning and into the early afternoon - the latter part including a one-hour seawatching session.  A ‘nice moulting adult’ Curlew Sandpiper (PL) was located on the Scrape during morning viewing, along with singles of Common Sandpiper, Greenshank and Redshank, 3 Blk-T Godwits, 3 Ruff, 7 Dunlin and 8 Snipe, also 3 Shoveler and 50+ Teal of note.  In front of the Main Hide were 2 Stonechats (juvs), while moving through were a few of each Sand and House Martins, plus Swallows numbering 40+.  Located near to the Second Hide were singles of Whinchat and Wheatear.  Offshore movement during the seawatching hour added 2 Sandwich Terns, 3 Turnstones and 4 Teal, as well as a Kestrel and a Marsh Harrier – both the latter flying in/off. MR/ML/PRD/PL.  The bushes were fairly quiet but did produce 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warblers, 3 Blackcaps and 4 Common Whitethroats for the day’s counts. PL.

28th – A Ringing Session from 06.30-11.00hrs was down at the Reed-bed this morning and involved seven species and a total of thirty-one birds ringed.  Singles of Whinchat, Wheatear and Meadow Pipit, 4 Common Whitethroats, 6 Sedge Warblers, 9 Reed Warblers and 9 Reed Buntings were the counts for this session.  Described as “very pleasant out there with very little wind” during this time, a House Martin and some 50+ Swallows were noted but they avoided the nets, a Marsh Harrier was seen to fly in/over the seawall and the Second Hide vicinity held at least 3 Wheatears and 2 Whinchats. SC/PC.

29th – A Wood Sandpiper* decided to grace the Haven Scrape today, being located just before 09.00hrs and became number 162 for the Haven 2018 Year List. PRD.  A quick, evening visit, found that the Wood Sandpiper was still in-situ and was alongside singles of Redshank, Little Stint, Greenshank and an adult Spotted Redshank, 3 Common and 3 Green Sandpipers, 6 Snipe and 7 Dunlin.  Quartering the marsh during this survey was a SEO.  The Scrape itself was reported as “looks very good at the moment” with thanks to the Warden (Leon W) for a “great job getting the water levels right”. PL.

30th – An initial morning survey provided of note, a Garden Warbler in the Dell, while also viewed were 2 juvenile Gt. Spotted Woodpeckers. PRD.  Viewing across the Scrape (09.00-10.00hrs) supplied counts of 1 Little Stint, 1 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Snipe, 4 Dunlin, 4 Ruff and 5 Blk-T Godwits, while the fields gave 2 Curlew. SC/TS/et al.  An evening visit to the Main Hide, added a Green Sandpiper, with increased numbers of Common Sandpiper to 2, Blk-T Godwits to 6 and Snipe to 9 and a decrease of Ruff down to 2.  A Stonechat (juv) and 5 Whinchats were also visible from the Main Hide at this time – a further 3 Whinchats (visit total of 8) were near the Second Hide.  A SEO was again seen over on the Marsh.  The Orchard area provided a Redstart this evening, 2 Hobby were seen to fly over the Raised Platform (by Memorials) and the bushes held 1 Blackcap, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 4 Common Whitethroats, as well as (via ML) 5 Willow Warblers. PL.  Of particular note, (report rec’d. 25-09-18), a Grasshopper Warbler* was trapped and ringed on the site today. PNt.

31st – No reports returned.

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Site Year Tick*

JULY 2018

1st - The start of a new month and along with the continuation of the UK heatwave, a Haven 2018 Year Tick also made it onto the

records for 1st July.  Notably, the 'heatwave' is said to be "Britain's longest since 1976".  During a site wander and survey - that also included viewing across the Scrape and its surrounding area - it was noted that a Cetti's Warbler (heard only) and several of  both Blackcaps and Common Whitethroats were about, as were a Marsh Harrier, a single Sand Martin and some 20+ Swifts.  The

Scrape provided 11 Teal alongside the Wader species of 1 Little Stint* (Adult), 2 Green and 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Ruff, 29 Avocets and increasing from yesterday's total, a count of 66 Blk-T Godwits. PL.

2nd - Blue skies, sun and those high temperatures again.  A morning visit and a survey of the Scrape found that the normal Ducks, Geese and Gulls were in-situ while of note, the Waders comprised 1 Green and 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Ruff, 2 LRP's, 33 Avocets and 47 Blk-T Godwits. MR.

3rd - No reports returned.

4th - A site visit this morning provided noted counts of eleven Wader species that were viewed across the Scrape and immediate area.  These were of 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Greenshank and a Redshank, 2 Dunlin, 2 LRP's, 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Ruff, 2 Oystercatchers   and 6 Lapwings, along with totals of 36 Avocets and 69 Blk-T Godwits.  The vicinity also yielded a single Shoveler (+ ducklings),  c11 Shelducks and 12 Teal, singles of Little Egret, Grey Heron and Med Gull, as well as a mix of Black-headed, L B B and Herring Gulls. MR.

5th - The heat continues even if a few more clouds appeared during today.  This morning's site visit reported "a nice mix of

Waders again" and the counts were of 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Greenshank and 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 

Common Sandpipers, 2 LRP's, 2 Ruff and 2 Oystercatchers, 4 Dunlin, 12 Lapwings, 35 Avocets and 52 Blk-T Godwits.  The regular Ducks, Geese and Gulls also being in the vicinity. MR.

6th - No reports returned.    

7th - Hottest day of the year so far plus an England win 2-0 sees them through to the semi-finals of the World Cup.  A visit to the Haven site today (pre-football), gave that the Scrape held of note, 1 Common and 2 Green Sandpipers, 3 Ruff, 3 Dunlin, 20 Blk-T Godwits and 30 Avocets, alongside 1 Sandwich Tern and 3 adult Med Gulls. Also viewed were 15 Swifts and 25 Sand Martins, while offshore additions were of a 1S Med Gull and a Marsh Harrier. PL/ML/IM.

8th - At least four observers visited the site during today, in further sweltering conditions.  During one joint survey, the Scrape yielded noted counts of 1 Sandwich Tern and 2 Teal, with the Waders consisting of 1 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, 1 Common Sandpiper and a Spotted Redshank (the latter in Summer Plumage), 30 Avocets and 60 Blk-T Godwits.  Some 20 Sand Martins, 40+ Swifts and a single Marsh Harrier were also viewed, as were 5 Common Buzzards seen to be circling over the back.  The Wildlife front gave that a Norfolk Hawker was still in-situ, albeit that its "wings starting to show a lot of wear". IM/MR/PL.  Additional bird reports (of 08.00hrs) were of a Green Sandpiper on the Scrape with 2 Greenshanks, while Ruff at that particular viewing were up at a count of 3. PBr.  Extra information for the Wildlife included that there were now Small Red-eyed Damselflies at the Dipping Pond (lower carpark) and that a few Gatekeeper Butterflies were starting to emerge.

9th/10th - No reports returned.

11th - Of note today, a colour-ringed 'PLE8' Med Gull (3CY male) was viewed by two observers and further to the submission/reply of

the relevant information, the Gull was proven to have been ringed in Poland in May 2012. MR/DW.   

12th - A site visit and survey conducted this morning, reported that the Scrape is "looking really good" although with the heat/evaporation, the levels will soon require a bit of a top-up (maybe some overnight rainfall would be good?).  The species on and around the Scrape consisted of singles of Redshank, Spotted Redshank, Common and Green Sandpipers, 3 Ruff, 4 Lapwings, 15 Avocets and 40 Blk-T Godwits, alongside the Shelduck, Teal and 'lots' of Mallards.  The Wildlife front yielded a Butterfly selection of notably   Large and Small Skippers, Small White and Green-veined White, Red Admiral, Peacock, Gatekeeper, Comma, Ringlet, Meadow Brown  and Speckled Wood. MR.

13th/14th/15th - No reports returned.

16th - The Reed-bed was the base for a Ringing Session (06.45-11.15hrs) that involved five species and consisted of 1 Linnet, 1 Common Whitethroat, 3 Reed Warblers (+1 re-trap from 2017), 7 Sedge Warblers and 14 Swallows.  During this time, 1 House Martin, c10 

Sand Martins, 3 Swifts and 80+ Swallows were also viewed. SC/PC.  Viewing across the Scrape this morning provided of note, 3 Green Sandpipers, 4 LRP's, 5 Ruff and 5 Blk-T Godwits but the surprise of the morning was on the Wildlife front, with the locating of a 

Southern Migrant Hawker along Kirby Brook (the same brook where the Norfolk Hawker had been hanging out). MR.

17th - No reports returned.

18th - Of interest, a colour-ringed Avocet on the scrape yesterday and seen on there again today, was confirmed as being 'ringed as pullus' at Orfordness, Suffolk on 3rd June 2018 (as in, last month). MR/PRD.  An evening visit to the Main Hide, provided noted counts of 1 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 Ringed Plovers, 3 Avocets, 4 Ruff, 5 LRP's and 10 Blk-T Godwits, as well as 3 Reed Warblers, 2 

Med Gulls and a Hobby. MT.

19th - Viewed across the Scrape this morning, the species consisted of 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Dunlin and 2 LRP's, 3 Avocets, 5 Ruff, 10 Lapwings and 19 Blk-T Godwits.  A single Grey Heron was noted, while 4 Little Egrets 

"flew in together and flew out one by one over the next 40 minutes".  Birds of Prey in the vicinity were singles of Sparrowhawk, Common Buzzard and Marsh Harrier. TS/MR/DW.  The Wildlife front yielded notables of 2 Southern Migrant Hawkers along with Emperor,   Common Darter, Ruddy Darter and Black-tailed Skimmer Dragonflies, plus Banded Demoiselle. MR.  Of interest to some, work has 

begun on the installation of a solar pump for the main scrape. 

20th - No reports returned.

21st - Visiting the site today - amid the continuing heatwave - yielded noted species for the Scrape of 1 Snipe, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 Avocets, 3 Common Sandpipers, 3 LRP's, 4 Ruff, 7 Lapwings and 20 Blk-T Godwits, alongside 3 Little Egrets, a single   Shoveler and 10 Teal.  Fly-overs proved to add 2 Curlew, 2 Whimbrel and 2 Med Gulls, while singles of Common Buzzard and Marsh Harrier were the reported raptors within the survey.  Offshore viewing gave 1 Sandwich Tern.  The Wildlife front was fruitful again today for Southern Migrant Hawkers with 2 still remaining in the area with counts of 3 Ruddy Darter, 4 Black-tailed Skimmer and 5 Emperor Dragonflies also on show today too. PL.    

22nd - With the heat increasing yet again, a morning visit gave views of a few Swallows 'on the move', as well as 4 Sand Martins and 5 Swifts, while catching the observers' attention as it flew along the car-park, was a juvenile Cuckoo.  Across the Scrape and skyline from the chosen viewpoint were 1 Common Tern, 2 Little Egrets, 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Redshanks, 4 LRP's, 6 Ruff and 6 Avocets, 14 Blk-T Godwits and 4 Med Gulls (the latter comprising 2ads+1juv+1S).  Marsh Harriers numbered a probable 3.  Goldcrest made the report today with 2 number, being 1 adult and 1 juvenile, located at the Sewage Farm.  There was more for the Wildlife front too.  A Migrant Hawker (first one for this Haven year) was near to the Ringing Compound while Kirby Brook - off to the right of the Main Hide - yielded 2   Southern Migrant Hawkers with 3 Emperor Dragonflies. IM/MR/PL.  A Ringing Session early this morning (06.45-10.15hrs) involved the ringing of twelve birds, four species and consisted of 1 Common Whitethroat, 2 Sedge Warblers, 7 Reed Warblers and 2 Swallows. SC.    

23rd/24th - No reports returned.

25th - A visit and survey during this morning, reported bird counts and species for across the Scrape and surrounding vicinity, as well 

as some more good news on the Wildlife front.  The Scrape areas yielded singles of LRP (juv), Common and Green Sandpipers, 3 Ruff, 10 Lapwings and 16 Blk-T Godwits, also a notable 6 Grey Herons.  The Gulls were those of 5 LBB, 10 Common, 15 Herring and c150 

Black-headed, while a Marsh Harrier and 3 Kestrels were viewed during the survey.  The Wildlife front again found that Kirby Brook held 2 Southern Migrant Hawker and 2 Emperor Dragonflies, alongside several Common and Ruddy Darter Dragonflies too.  The good news was that a further Southern Migrant Hawker was located at the Dipping Pond (lower car-park), giving a total of 3 of this species on the site today. MR.   (Of interest, the new Solar Pump is now working, so water levels should start to change on the Scrape area - the land between the hide and the scrape is supposed to flood before draining into the scrape and only time over the next few days or so will gauge how much/how soon).

26th - No reports returned.

27th - This morning's survey which included noted counts of 1 LRP, 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Snipe, 3 Ruff, 17 Blk-T Godwits and 5 Grey Herons, also saw species number 156 on the Haven 2018 Year List, as it or 'they' in this particular case, dropped onto the Scrape area.  At c10.42hrs, these 2 Curlew Sandpipers made it onto the report. MR.  As at 17.00hrs, the 2 Curlew Sandpipers were still on the site. PL.

28th – Visits and surveying by two observers, found that after last night’s storm – with its seriously heavy rain, hailstones and a good amount of lightning – the whole Scrape was flooded “but still looking good for waders”.  The Curlew Sands’ had unfortunately disappeared before this morning’s viewing, leaving the notable Wader counts to be those of 1 LRP(juv), 1 of each Green and Common Sandpipers, 2 Avocets, 3 Ruff (being 1 Ad+2juvs) and 27 Blk-T Godwits.  “Also in/out through the morning” were 1 Sandwich and 2 juvenile Common Terns, 2 juvenile Med Gulls and a juvenile  Marsh Harrier.  A large Swift movement – again throughout the morning visit – was of some 400 to 500 birds all heading SW into the wind.  An afternoon Seawatching session of one hour, yielded the additions of a Common Scoter(drake), 1 Little Egret, 3 Curlew, 2 Med Gulls and 2 Gannets. PL/IM.  (Reported of interest, was that the Solar panels/pump have proven so far to be working well).

29th – Per stated on the observer’s report, the weather has “certainly taken a nose dive today!”.  With the albeit much needed on/off rain across the district, county and much of the UK, the Haven’s Scrape was this morning, found to be ‘full’ of water but lacking in Wader species - just 2 Avocets and 15 Blk-T Godwits, although a single Whimbrel ordained to drop in briefly.  This vicinity did also supply of note, 2 Common Terns (ads) and 3 Med Gulls (1ad+2juvs), while offshore provided just a single Gannet and 2 Teal to add to the counts. PL.

30th – After another night of rain, which continued – very heavy at times changing to fine/drizzle – through until gone 09.00hrs, the day did brighten considerably and had quite a breeze to it too.  A morning visit plus site survey, located 3 Curlew and 9 Whimbrel of note over on the grazing marsh, while the main Scrape held slightly different counts to yesterday’s – consisting today of 1 Little Egret, just 1 Avocet, 2 Ruff (both males) and 4 Blk-T Godwits, alongside 1 Common and 2 Sandwich Terns and 2 Med Gulls (ad+juv). PRD.

31st - No reports returned. 

As at 31st July 2018 the Haven 2018 Year List stands at 156.

ALL photos remain the copyright of the photographer and/or the particular websites or publications they may appear within.  

From top left of page to right and downwards, the photos are: 

Orange Tip - Mick Rodwell,  Wren - Mick Rodwell,  Main Hide,  Wheatear - Jim Kendle,

Yellow-legged Gull (juv) - Ted Sewell

NB: Whilst it is endeavoured to update this & other associated pages on a daily basis, please bear in mind that work & other commitments may & do at times delay these updates.  At all times & wherever you are birding, should you know you are viewing a good bird for the site, area or even country, please try to inform other birders asap by whatever means available - including if the bird takes flight from where you have been observing it. (The latter can save unnecessary journeys for many).  If you do not have a contact for any of the area's local birders then the likes of the Pager services will assist & if deemed, they will release the news.  

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