2005 SIGHTINGS
Despite two new species, Red Kite and Dartford Warbler being added to the species list, it was a year with just 168 species being seen, the lowest number for 3 years. Despite this poor total some other excellent birds were found; 2 Whooper Swans in January, a Waxwing in November, a Cetti’s Warbler in October and December. Other notable records included Leach’s Petrels, 3 Pomarine Skuas, at least 7 Garganey, the returning Ring-necked Duck, a record number of 70 Brent Geese in March, single Osprey, Hen Harrier, Purple Sandpiper, Black Redstart, Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Grasshopper Warbler, Ring Ouzel, 9 Avocets, 3 Snow Buntings and 2 Corn Bunting records. Little Egrets and Mediterranean Gulls continued to be seen throughout the year but once again there were some surprise omissions of almost annual species including Storm Petrel, Eider, Bewick’s Swan, Spotted Redshank and Firecrest.
Click on the Calendar pictures below for detailed daily sightings and pictures for each month.
