Saturday 24th September – Friday 30th September 2022.

Introduction:                                         

… sibe warblers & winter thrushes …

Passerines and others:

There is always a sense of anticipation during late September about the possibility of a Yellow-browed Warbler and this week delivered 2 of these delightful vagrants from Siberia with 1 at a private garden at Valley (25^th-26^th) and 1 heard calling at Wylfa woods (25^th). 

A Lesser Whitethroat continued to be seen at South Stack (25^th-29^th), with the site also having a Common Whitethroat (25^th).  Reports of Chiffchaff included up 5 birds at Wylfa woods (26^th), 2 around the western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th), 1 at Rhoscolyn (24^th), 1 at Gadfa (28^th), 1 at Mynydd Parys (28^th) and 1 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (27th & 29^th).  2 Blackcap were around the western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th), with 2 at Wylfa woods (26^th), a male and a female were at Amlwch water treatment plant (24^th) and 1 was at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (26^th).  A Goldcrest was at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (29^th).

There was just the 1 report of a Northern Wheatear – a bird at The Range (24^th).  Swallows continue to be seen in small numbers while 6 House Martins were over the western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th).  South Stack (25^th) delivered the 1^st Lapland Bunting of the autumn.  Winter thrushes are starting to return with a number of Fieldfares reported over Brynteg (25^th) and a nocturnal movement of Redwing was heard at Tregele (29^th).  A Kingfisher was by the Valley tidal door (25^th), while 1 was at the Afon Cefni (29^th) and 2 at Malltraeth (29^th).  27 Red-billed Chough were at South Stack (27^th), with a flock of 25 at The Range (25^th).  A Hooded Crow was at Hen Borth, Cemlyn (25^th) with another on field between Four Mile Bridge and Rhoscolyn (25^th)

Seabirds & gulls:

Although the wind was in the north for much of the week, the number of Skua sightings was a little disappointing.  Great Skuas have been scarce this year – perhaps reflecting population declines due to Avian Flu – with just 1 past Cemlyn (26^th) and 1 past Point Lynas (27^th).  The number of Arctic Skuas was only a little better with 3 past Point Lynas (24^th), 2 past Cemlyn (25^th), 3 past Point Lynas (26^th), 1 past North Stack (26^th) and 1 past Point Lynas (27^th).  There were reasonable numbers of commoner seabirds still to be had, with a 1-hour seawatch off Point Lynas (25^th) producing 180 Gannets, 150 Kittiwakes, c. 1500 auks and c. 30 Manx Shearwaters.

A Sabine’s Gull was seen to fly past Bull Bay (27^th) and a Little Gull past Point Lynas (28^th).  Sightings of Mediterranean Gulls included 53 at the Alaw estuary (28^th), 1 at Traeth Dulas (24^th), 1 at the Cymyran estuary (24^th), 1 at Penmon (28^th) and 2 that flew past Point Lynas (28^th).  3 Black Guillemots were at Holyhead harbour (29^th), with 2 winter plumaged birds in the bay at Cemlyn (25^th) and 2 juveniles at Porth-y-Mor (29^th). 

Waders:

Up to 8 Curlew Sandpipers were in the Malltraeth area, with 8 on the Cefni estuary (29^th) and up to 5 on the cob pool (5 on 24^th, 3 on 24^th).  Elsewhere, 1 was at the Alaw estuary (24^th) and 1 was at Valley cob (27^th- 29^th).  5 Green Sandpipers were on the eastern basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th), with 2 Common Sandpipers at Church Island (24^th) and 1 at the Afon Cefni, Malltraeth (29^th).

The American Golden Plover was seen again at Cemlyn (24^th-25^th).  80+ European Golden Plover were also at Cemlyn (24^th), with 33 at the Alaw estuary (28^th), 30+ on the Cefni estuary (29^th) and 1 at Porth-y-Mor (29^th).  14 Grey Plover were between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th), with 1 at Traeth Dulas (24^th&27^th).  Sightings of Ringed Plover included 56 at the Cymyran estuary (24^th), 30 between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th) and 10 at Porth-y-Mor (29^th).  6 Lapwing were on the western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th).

A Sanderling was near Llanddwyn island (25^th), while sightings of Dunlin included 232 between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th) and 16 at the Cymyran estuary (24^th).  2 Snipe were at the Inland Sea (24^th), with 1 at the western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th).  2 Ruff were at Beddmanarch Bay (29^th) and 2 were on the Cefni estuary (29^th). 

11 Greenshank were between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th), 10 were at the Alaw estuary (28^th), 6 were at Traeth Dulas (24^th), 3 were at Llyn Penrhyn (29^th), up to 3 were at Valley cob (3 on 24^th&27^th, 2 on 28^th, 1 on 29^th) and 1 was at Church Island (24^th).  28 Redshank were between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th), 9 were at Traeth Dulas (24^th), 8 were at Valley cob (24^th), 7 were at the Alaw estuary (28^th) and 7 were at the Cymyran estuary (24^th).  Sightings of Black-tailed Godwit included 3 at Valley cob (24^th) and 1 at the Inland Sea (24^th).  20 Bar-tailed Godwit were at the Alaw estuary (28^th), with 6 at Traeth Dulas (24^th).

355 Curlew were roosting at Penmon Pool at High Tide (28^th), with other counts including 62 between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th), 46 at the Alaw estuary (28^th), 36 at the Cymyran estuary (24^th) and 14 at The Range (25^th).  514 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (28^th), with 82 between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

A Great Egret was at the Inland Sea (24^th) and another was at Llyn Penrhyn (29^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

4 Whooper Swans flew in off the sea and over Cemlyn (25^th), while a single bird was at Cemlyn (29^th).  29 Pink-footed Geese flew over the Alaw estuary (24^th), while 3 were on fields near Cemlyn (27^th).  22 Pale-bellied Brent Geese were at the Alaw estuary (28^th), with both Pale-bellied and Dark-bellied Brent Geese being seen at Beddmanarch Bay (29^th) and 1 seen in flight past Point Lynas (28^th).

A WeBS count between Inland Sea between Four-mile Bridge and Cymyran (25^th) produced 100 Wigeon, 67 Teal and 3 Pintail.  9 Wigeon were at Traeth Dulas (24^th), 8 were at the Alaw estuary (28^th) and up to 8 were at Valley Cob (7 on 28^th, 4 on 24^th).  The western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th) held c. 30 Shoveler, 2 Pintail, c. 175 Teal and c. 50 Gadwall.  9 Gadwall were at Valley Cob (24^th), with the site also having up to 24 Teal (24 on 28^th, 13 on 24^th).  A drake Eider was in the bay at Cemlyn (25^th).  14 Goosander were at the Inland Sea (24^th).

Raptors:

An Osprey was at Malltraeth (25^{th &} 30^th), while 2 Red Kites were over RSPB Cors Ddyga (29^th).  A Marsh Harrier was at Llyn Llywenan (29^th), with another at RSPB Cors Ddyga (29^th).  A Merlin was watched chasing Meadow Pipits at South Stack road (29^th).

Divers & Grebes:

2 Great Northern Divers flew past Point Lynas (29^th).  Sightings of Red-throated Divers included 7 past Cemlyn (25^th), 1 past Point Lynas (25^th), 1 past Point Lynas (26^th), 2 past Point Lynas (27^th) and 2 past Amlwch Port (27^th).  c. 40 Little Grebe were on the western basin of the Cefni reservoir (24^th).

 

2022 Year List:

Yellow-browed Warbler and Sabine’s Gull were new for the year and takes the 2022 year list up to 211.

Saturday 17th September – Friday 23rd September 2022.

Introduction:                                         

This year’s first land-based sighting of a Pom ...

Seabirds & gulls:

Pomarine Skua was on the year list courtesy of an adult seen and photographed some 20 miles offshore on the 31^st May.  This week notched up the first land-based sighting with a juvenile seen off Point Lynas (23^rd), along with 3 other probable sightings.  Reports of Arctic Skua were a little thin on the ground with just 2 past Cemlyn (19^th) and 2 past Point Lynas (19^th) together with 1 unidentified skua.  An adult and a 1^st winter Mediterranean Gull were at Traeth Dulas (17^th), with an adult at Penrhos Coastal Park (21^st).  A late Puffin was off Tyn Llan beach, Cemlyn (20^th).

Waders:

A Little Stint was an excellent find at Church Island, Menai Bridge (23^rd), while up to 8 Curlew Sandpiper were at Malltraeth cob and estuary (8 on 21^st, 5 on 23^rd, 4 on 19^th, 1 on 18th), with up to 4 at the Inland Sea (4 on 21^st, 3 on 22^nd), 2 on the Alaw estuary (17^th) and 1 at Valley cob (23^rd).  Sightings of Green Sandpiper included 1 on the east basin of the Cefni reservoir (19^th), 1 on the Alaw estuary (20^th&22^nd), 1 along the Afon Cefni, at Cors Ddyga (21^st) and 1 at the Inland Sea (22^nd).  3 Common Sandpiper were on the mitigation pool, Inland Sea (23^rd).

The American Golden Plover was seen again off Tyn Llan beach, Cemlyn (18^th-23^rd).  Cemlyn also held up to 85+ European Golden Plover (85+ on 21^st, 80 on 19^th), with 1 at Malltraeth cob (23^rd) and 1 at South Stack (23^rd). 7 Grey Plover were at the Inland Sea (21^st), with 1 at Holyhead Bay (19^th), 1 past Point Lynas (19^th) and 1 at Llyn Llywenan (22^nd).  8 Ringed Plover (19^th) were at Holyhead Bay (19^th), with 3 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (23^rd).  20 Lapwing were at Llyn Llywenan (17^th), with 5 at the west basin of Cefni reservoir (19^th).

3 Sanderling were at Cemlyn (19^th) and 322 Dunlin were at the Inland Sea (21^st).  Sightings of Ruff included 1 at Llyn Llywenan (17^th) and 1 at Malltraeth cob (21^st).  20 Greenshank were on the Alaw estuary (21^st), with 4 at Traeth Dulas (22^nd), 1 at Llyn Llywenan (17^th&22^nd), 2 at Valley cob (18^th), 1 at Church Island (19^th&23^rd) and 1 at Malltraeth (23^rd).  64 Redshank were at the Inland Sea (21^st), with 29 at Church Island (19^th), 17 at the Alaw estuary (20^th) and 9 at Valley cob (18^th).

6 Black-tailed Godwit were at Llyn Llywenan (17^th) and 2 were at Valley cob (18^th&23^rd).  Up to 25 Bar-tailed Godwit were on the Alaw estuary (25 on 23^rd, 14 on 20^th), with up to 6 at Traeth Dulas (6 on 22^nd, 5 on 20^th, 3 on 17^th).  A Whimbrel was at Traeth Dulas (17^th), with 1 at Cemlyn (19^th) and 1 at Rhoscolyn (23^rd).  77 Curlew were at the Alaw estuary (20^th), with 5 at Valley cob (18^th).  423 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (20^th).

Passerines and others:

A Spotted Flycatcher was at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (21^st) and a Northern Wheatear was at Cemlyn (19^th).  A Lesser Whitethroat was at South Stack (23^rd), as was a Common Whitethroat (23^rd).  c. 12 Chiffchaff – including 4 singing – were around the west basin at Cefni reservoir (19^th), with other sightings including 2 at the Amlwch water treatment plant (20^th), 1 at Soldiers Point, Holyhead (21^st), 1 at South Stack (21^st & 23^rd), 3 along the disused railway line between Llangefni and the A55 (22^nd) and 2 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (23^rd).   c. 2 Blackcap were around the west basin at Cefni reservoir (19^th) and a Cetti’s Warbler was at Hen Borth (19^th). 

There was a good passage of Pipits and Wagtails at South Stack (23^rd) which included 233 Meadow Pipits, 17 alba White/Pied Wagtails and 21 Grey Wagtails.  A Grey Wagtail was also seen at Rhoscolyn (23^rd).  100+ House Sparrows were at Mynachdy Farm (18^th) and 8 Greenfinch were at Church Island (23^rd).

It isn’t that long ago that Anglesey year listers would plan a January trip off the island to Aber Ogwen to see a Kingfisher.  Albeit somewhat anecdotal, it does appear that you are far more likely to see one on the island than was the case 20-30 years ago.  Sightings this week included 1 at the Alaw estuary (17^th), 1 at Llyn Llygeirian (18^th), 1 at the west basin of Cefni reservoir (19^th), 2 at Malltraeth (19^th), 1 at Holyhead Harbour (21^st) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (22^nd). 

8 Stock Doves were on a ploughed field alongside Gorad Road, between Valley and Llanynghenedl (23^rd), as was a White Wagtail (23^rd).  A Hooded Crow was between Henborth, Cemlyn and Llanfairynghornwy (21^st) and another was in fields alongside the road from Four Mile bridge to Rhoscolyn (23^rd).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

Sightings of Great Egret included single birds at the Cefni reservoir (19^th), the Inland Sea (19^th, 21^st & 22^nd) and over Malltraeth cob (21^st).  81 Little Egret were at the Inland Sea (19^th) and this is thought to be the highest count at any one site on the island.  A Water Rail was at the west basin of Cefni reservoir (19^th) with another at Malltraeth (19^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

3 Black Swans were at the Inland Sea (21^st), as were 15 Mute Swans (21^st).  12 Pale-bellied Brent Geese were off Penrhos Coastal Park (21^st) and 3 flew past Point Lynas (19^th).  4 Barnacle Geese were at Llyn Llywenan (17^th&21^st), while 179 Canada Geese were at the Inland Sea (20^th).

300+ Wigeon were at the Inland Sea (21^st), with c.15 on the east basin at Cefni reservoir (19^th) and c. 15 on west basin (19^th).  There were c.10 Shoveler on east basin at Cefni reservoir (19^th), with c. 6 on the west basin (19^th).  17 Pintail on the Inland Sea (20^th) were at a traditional winter site, but 6 at the Cefni reservoir were a little more unexpected (19^th). 

Up to 24 Goosander were on the Inland Sea (24 on 21^st, 16 on 19^th), with 14 at Malltraeth (19^th) and 1 at Cemlyn (19^th-23^rd).  An impressive count of Coot was had at the Cefni reservoir with 230 on the east basin (19^th) and 130 on the west basin (19^th).  161 Common Scoter flew past Point Lynas (19^th) with 14 past Cemlyn (19^th).

Raptors:

It continues to be a good time for sightings of Ospreys with 2 at Cors Ddyga (17^th) and 2 around Malltraeth (17^th-23^rd).  Up to 4 Red Kites were over silage fields at Talwrn (4 on 17^th, 1-2 18^th-19^th), with 3 at Llanbedrgoch (21^st) and 1 at the Cefni reservoir (19^th).  Up to 2 Marsh Harriers were at Llyn Llywenan (2 on 22^nd, 1 on 17^th&21^st), with 1 around the west basin at Cefni reservoir (19^th) and 1 over the marsh between Llangefni and the A55 (23^rd).

Divers & Grebes:

9 Red-throated Divers were seen to fly past Point Lynas (19^th) and 1 flew west past North Stack (23^rd).  Up to 32 Great Crested Grebe were on the Inland Sea (32 on 21^st, 30 on 23^rd).

 

2022 Year List:

There were no new additions to the 2022 year list which remains at 209.

Saturday 10th September – Friday 16th September 2022.

Introduction:                                         

Waders hogged the headlines during the early part of the week, but a visitors from warmer climes gatecrashed the latter part of the week.

Waders:

A juvenile Red-necked Phalarope was found during a WeBS count at Llyn Coron and stayed a few days (11^th – 13^th) during which time it drew a steady stream of admirers.  Last week’s Wood Sandpiper stayed into this week at Valley cob (12^th-14^th), while the American Golden Plover continued its stay at Cemlyn (10^th-16^th).

Malltraeth continues to be the top spot for Curlew Sandpiper with birds being seen on the cob pool, the Cefni estuary and the Afon Cefni.  15 were seen on the cob pool (10^th), up to 14 on Cefni estuary (14 on 11^th, 4 on 12^th) and up to 8 were on the Afon Cefni (8 on 13^th, 4 on 2 on 10^th).  Elsewhere, 4 were seen at Red Wharf Bay (10^th) and 3 were at the Alaw estuary (14^th).

2 Green Sandpiper were at Llyn Llygeirian (16^th), while sightings of Common Sandpiper included 2 at Rhoscolyn (13^th), 1 at Malltraeth (13^th) and 1 at Llyn Coron (13^th).  12 European Golden Plover were at Cemlyn (15^th), with single birds noted at South Stack (11^th) and at The Range, Holyhead (16^th).

23 Sanderling were at Traeth Cymyran (14^th), while sightings of Knot included 6 at Red Wharf Bay (10^th), 1 at Malltraeth cob pool (10^th) and 4 at Beddmanarch Bay (14^th).  Dunlin numbers are still quite low with the highest reports counts being 19 at Rhoscolyn (12^th), 15 at Malltraeth (12^th) and up to 15 at the Alaw estuary (15 on 14^th, 3 on 12^th).  Reports of Common Snipe included 2 at Llyn Llywenan (10^th), 1 at Traeth Dulas (10^th) and 2 at Cors Ddyga (11^th).  4 Turnstone were noted along the coastline at the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (13^th).

There were up to 4 Ruff at Malltraeth cob pool (4 on 10^th, 1 on 14^th), with up to 3 at the Cefni reservoir (3 on 16^th, 2 on 13^th) and 1 at Valley cob (13^th&14^th).  11 Greenshank were at the Alaw estuary (14^th), with up to 7 at Traeth Dulas (7 on 10^th, 5 on 12^th&13^th, 1 on 14^th), up to 4 at Valley cob (4 on 14^th, 1 on 12^th), 1 at Carmel Head (11^th) and 1 at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  104 Redshank were at Malltraeth (12^th), with up to 29 at the Alaw estuary (29 on 14^th, 10 on 12^th) and up to 8 at Valley cob (8 on 14^th, 6 on 12^th).  Reports of Black-tailed Godwit included 4 at Red Wharf Bay (10^th), 4 at Valley cob (14^th), 2 at Beddmanarch Bay (14^th), 1 at Traeth Dulas (10^th) and 1 at Llyn Llywenan (10^th).  Up to 25 Bar-tailed Godwit were at the Alaw estuary (25 on 12^th, 22 on 14^th), with up to 6 at Traeth Dulas (6 on 12^th, 4 on 11^th, 1 on 10^th&14^th)

A Whimbrel was at Traeth Dulas (14^th).  Up to 82 Curlew were at the Alaw estuary (82 on 14^th, 45 on 12^th), with 64 at Rhoscolyn (13^th) and 13 at Valley cob (14^th).  Up to 526 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (526 on 14^th, 516 on 12^th).

Passerines and others:

A second Hoopoe for Anglesey in 2022, following a spring bird seen on the 17^th April at Penmon.  That bird wasn’t relocated, partly due to the fact that attention was drawn away by a Black-winged Stilt found the same morning at Cors Ddyga.  The fact that it was Easter Sunday also offered up the prospect of traffic congestion on coastal roads.  This week’s bird was reported from the coastal footpath near Porth Wen (15^th) and fortunately on this occasion it was relocated and showed well until early evening.

There were 2 Pied Flycatchers in sycamores in the White Eagle car park in Rhoscolyn (16^th).  A Spotted Flycatcher was at Carmel Head (11^th) with 1 also at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (13^th & 15^th).  A Tree Pipit flew over at Carmel Head (11^th), with reports of birds at South Stack (1 on 10^th& 1 on 11^th).  2 Whinchat were at Rhoscolyn (15^th), with sightings of Northern Wheatear including 2 at Rhoscolyn (13^th), up to 2 at Soldiers Point (2 on 10^th, 1 on 13^th), 2 at The Range, Holyhead (11^th&16^th) and 1 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (10^th&13^th).

It is always difficult at this time of year to know whether summer migrant warblers are birds that have bred locally or whether they are birds from elsewhere that are moving through on their southbound journey.  There was a singing Chiffchaff at the Octel water treatment plant (13^th), with 1 at South Stack (11^th) and 3 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (15^th).  3 Blackcap were at South Stack (16^th), with 2 at the Octel water treatment plant (13^th) and 1 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (15^th).  A Common Whitethroat was at South Stack (16^th).  Resident Cetti’s Warblers were heard at Cors Ddyga (11^th) and Llyn Coron (11^th).  A Grey Wagtail was at Soldiers Point (10^th) and 2 Goldcrest were at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (10^th).

Up to 3 Kingfishers were on the Afon Cefni at Malltraeth (3 on 13^th, 1 on 12^th), with 1 at Traeth Dulas (10^th) and 1 at Cors Ddyga (11^th).  A Hooded Crow was at Traeth Dulas (14^th) with another at Hen Borth (15^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

A northerly aspect to the wind duly brought a number of sightings of skuas.  2 Great Skuas flew past Point Lynas (16^th), with 1 past Point Lynas (15^th) and 1 past Cemlyn (16^th).  4 Arctic Skuas flew past Point Lynas (16^th), with 3 past Point Lynas (15^th), 2 past Point Lynas (10^th), 1 past South Stack (13^th) and 1 was seen off Benllech (14^th).

17 Mediterranean Gulls were at the Alaw estuary (17 on 14^th, 9 on 12^th), with 1 Beddmanarch Bay (14^th) a 2^nd calendar year bird at Traeth Dulas (10^th) and a 1^st winter bird at Traeth Dulas (14^th).  A juvenile Arctic Tern was at the Alaw estuary (12^th).  There were sightings of Puffin off Point Lynas (1 on 15^th & 1 on 16^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

2 Great Egret were at the mouth of the Alaw estuary (14^th), with another at the Inland Sea (14^th) and 1 was seen in flight at Llyn Llywenan (13^th).  25 Little Egrets were counted at the Inland Sea (14^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

The 3 Black Swans continued their stay at the Inland Sea (14^th), with 10 Mute Swans also at this site (14^th).  13 Pale-bellied Brent Geese were at Beddmanarch Bay (14^th), with 2 at the Alaw estuary (12^th).  A single Pink-footed Goose flew over the Anglesey coastal path at Bull Bay (16^th).

4 Garganey at Llyn Cefni (15^th) – 3 at west end and 1 at east end, with 1 at Llyn Coron (12^th) and 1 at Llyn Llygeirian (16^th).  300+ Teal were on the Mitigation Pool, Inland Sea (14^th), with 67 at Valley cob (14^th) and 57 at the Alaw estuary (14^th).  15+ Wigeon were at Beddmanarach Bay (14^th), with 8 at Valley cob (14^th) and 3 at Red Wharf Bay (12^th).  A Goosander was at Malltraeth (13^th).  Sightings of Common Scoter included 42 seen off Benllech (14^th), 8 that flew past Bull Bay (14^th) and 30 that flew past Point Lynas (15^th).

Raptors:

There were several reports of an Osprey between Malltraeth and Cors Ddyga which may well relate to a juvenile that has been said to be showing well around Malltraeth cob and the Afon Cefni.  There was a sighting at Cors Ddyga (15^th) and at Malltraeth cob and over the Afon Cefni (13^th,15^th&16^th).  Marsh Harrier sightings included single birds at Cors Ddyga (11^th), at Llyn Coron (12^th) and at Llyn Llywenan (13^th).  Red Kites were seen at Malltraeth (16^th) and over Llangefni (16^th).  A Goshawk was seen at Cemlyn (10^th) and a roosting Barn Owl was at Carmel Head (11^th).

Divers & Grebes:

2 Great Northern Diver flew past Point Lynas (16^th), while sightings of Red-throated Diver included up to 4 past South Stack (4 on 15^th, 1 on 14^th, 1 on 16^th), 2 past Point Lynas (2 on 10^th, 1 on 15^th, 2 on 16^th) and 2 past Cemlyn (16^th).  25 Great Crested Grebes were on the Inland Sea (14^th).

2022 Year List:

Red-necked Phalarope was new for the year and takes the 2022 year list up to 209.

Saturday 3rd September – Friday 9th September 2022.

Introduction:

6 species of Sandpiper…

Waders:

With only 6 previous records for Anglesey – and the last record being as long ago as 2013 – a Buff-breasted Sandpiper found at Cemlyn (4^th) was a very welcome addition to many a year list.  Not so scarce, but still a good bird was a Wood Sandpiper found at Valley cob – a.k,a. Valley doors (8^th-9^th).  Curlew Sandpiper are annual but it has been somewhat of a bumper year with up to 16 at the Alaw estuary (16 on 6^th, 12 on 5^th, 12 on 8^th, 10 on 7^th, 8 on 4^th, 5 on 3^rd&9^th), up to 14 at Malltraeth cob pool (14 on 8^th, 13 on 6^th, 12 on 9^th, 9 on 4^th, 4 on 3^rd, 3 on 5^th) and 2 at Valley cob (9^th).  2 Purple Sandpiper were at Cemlyn (4^th), with sightings of Green Sandpiper including 1 at the Cefni reservoir (4^th) and up to 2 at the Alaw estuary (2 on 7^th, 1 on 8^th).  To complete the 6 species, there were 2 Common Sandpiper at the Alaw estuary (2 on 6^th, 1 on 4^th & 5^th).

There were 5 species of Plover with the headlining bird being Anglesey’s 9^th American Golden Plover which continued its stay at Cemlyn (3^rd-9^th).  The bird could often be found on rocks off Tyn Llan beach – particularly towards high tide or on the fields adjacent to the shore.  25 European Golden Plover were also at Cemlyn (4^th), with 1 on The Range (5^th).  A Grey Plover was at the Alaw estuary (5^th), 14 Ringed Plover were at the Alaw estuary (6^th) and 7 Lapwing were at the Cefni reservoir (9^th).

Up to 2 Little Stint were at Malltraeth cob pool (2 on 3^rd & 5^th, 1 on 4^th, 6^th, 8^th & 9^th), while sightings of Sanderling included up to 16 at the Alaw estuary (16 on 5^th, 1 on 6^th) and 4 at Cemlyn (4^th).  Reports of Knot included up to 37 at the Alaw estuary (37 on 6^th, 13 on 5^th), up to 3 at Malltraeth cob pool (3 on 4^th, 1 on 3^rd&9^th) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (5^th).  200+ Dunlin were on the Inland Sea (3^rd), up to 95 were at the Alaw estuary (95 on 5^th, 40 on 6th, 7 on 4^th), 20 were at Cemlyn (4^th), 2 were at Valley cob (8^th) and 1 was at the Cefni reservoir (4^th).  5 Common Snipe were at the Cefni reservoir (4^th), while 5 flew over Traeth Dulas (6^th) and 1 was at Valley cob (8^th).  45 Turnstone were counted at Cemlyn (4^th).

It was a good week for Ruff with up to 9 at the Alaw estuary (9 on 3^rd, 2 on 5^th & 7^th, 1 on 8^th), 4 at Llyn Llywenan (8^th), up to 4 at the Cefni reservoir (4 on 9^th, 3 on 6^th, 2 on 4^th), up to 3 at Malltraeth cob pool (3 on 3^rd, 2 on 6^th, 1 on 9^th) and 1 at Cemlyn (8^th).  Up to 21 Greenshank were at the Alaw estuary (21 on 3^rd, 14 on 5^th & 6^th, 13 on 9^th, 12 on 4^th), up to 10 were at Traeth Dulas (10 on 6^th, 1 on 5^th, 8 on 7^th), 4 were at Valley cob (8^th), 2 were at Cemlyn (4^th) and 1 was at Llyn Llywenan (8^th).  17 Redshank were at the Alaw estuary (4th & 6^th) and 7 were at Valley cob (8^th).

10 Black-tailed Godwit were on the Cefni estuary (3^rd), 9 were at Valley cob (8^th), 5 were at Malltraeth cob pool (6^th), 5 were at Llyn Llywenan (8^th), 2 were at Traeth Dulas (6^th) and 2 were at the Inland Sea (8^th).  Up to 35 Bar-tailed Godwit were at the Alaw estuary (35 on 5^th, 23 on the 9^th, 18+ on 8^th, 14 on 6^th, 1 on 4^th), 20 flew past Point Lynas (9^th), 13 were on the Inland Sea (3^rd), 6 were at Red Wharf Bay (9^th) and 2 were at Traeth Dulas (7^th&9^th).  2 Whimbrel were at Traeth Dulas (3^rd & 6^th), with 1 at Cemlyn (4^th).  183 Curlew were at Traeth Dulas (5^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

Those watching the Buff-breasted Sandpiper had an added bonus when a juvenile White-winged Black Tern was found on the bricks around the main island, Cemlyn (4^th).  This was only the 8^th record for Anglesey, with the last having been a spectacular summer-plumaged adult at Tyn Llan pool, Cemlyn during June 2014.  Sightings of Arctic Skua included 1 seen off Cemlyn (3^rd) and 16 that flew past Point Lynas (9^th).  A Great Skua also flew past Point Lynas (9^th) as did a Balearic Shearwater (9^th).  A couple of Gannets were seen in unusual places – perhaps casualties of Avian Flu – with 1 on the Inland Sea (8^th) and one on a field north of Llanfairynghornwy (8^th).

Up to 13 Mediterranean Gulls were at the Alaw estuary (13 on 6^th, 4 on 4^th, 1 on 9^th), with up to 6 at Traeth Dulas – up to 2 adult winter (1 on 3^rd, 2 on 9^th) and up to 4 1^st calendar years (4 on 3^rd, 1 on 6^th, 7^th & 9^th) and 2 1^st calendar years were at Borth Wen (6^th).  A Puffin was seen to fly past Point Lynas (4^th).

Passerines and others:

A Spotted Flycatcher was at The Range, Holyhead (5^th).  Sightings of Whinchat included 2 between Cemlyn and Hen Borth (9^th), 1 at Cemlyn (3^rd-5^th), 1 at the Alaw estuary (3^rd&9^th) and 1 at the Breakwater Country Park (7^th).  Reports of Northern Wheatear included 12 at The Range (5^th), up to 2 at Cemlyn (2 on 4^th, 1 on 3^rd), 1 at the Alaw estuary (3^rd), 1 at Soldier’s Point (7^th) and 1 the Breakwater Country Park (7^th). 

Reports of Common Whitethroat included 2 at Carmel Head (7^th), 1 – possibly 2 – at Cae Llyn, Rhoscolyn (6^th), 1 at Cestyll gardens near Cemlyn (4^th), 1 at The Range (5^th), 1 at the Breakwater Country Park (7^th) and 1 at Cemlyn (9^th).  Up to 3 Chiffchaff were at South Stack (3 on 5^th. 1 on 3^rd), with 1 at the Breakwater Country Park (5^th) and 1 at Valley cob (8^th).  2 Willow Warblers were at Carmel Head (7^th).  In a further sign of Autumn, an observer had their 1^st Goldcrest of the autumn at the Breakwater Country Park (7^th).  Cetti’s Warblers were singing at Valley cob (8^th), Valley wetlands RSPB (8^th) and Llyn Maelog (9^th).   90 Goldfinch were at Carmel Head (7^th).  A juvenile Cuckoo was at Hen Borth (4^th), while sightings of Kingfisher included up to 3 at the Alaw estuary (9^th), 2 at Malltraeth cob pool (4^th), 2 at Cemlyn (3^rd-9^th), 1 at Valley cob (8^th) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (9^th).  A Common Swift was seen over the Alaw estuary (8^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

The Cattle Egret was seen again in fields north of Cors Ddyga (3^rd&9^th), while sightings of Great Egret included 1 at Llyn Alaw (3^rd) and 1 at the Inland Sea (9^th).  A Water Rail was seen at the Alaw estuary (5^th), with 2 at Malltraeth cob pool (6^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

A female-type Mandarin flew off the beach at Hen Borth (9^th) and headed inland.  The 3 Black Swans remained on the Inland Sea (3^rd&9^th), while the first 5 returning Pale-bellied Brent Geese were on the Inland Sea (8^th).  3 Garganey were at the Cefni reservoir (4^th & 6^th), with another at the Alaw estuary (3^rd).  450 Teal were at the mitigation pool, Inland Sea (9^th), with 43 at the Alaw estuary (6^th) and 6 at Valley cob (8^th).  20 Wigeon were on the Inland Sea (3^rd), with 1 on Malltraeth cob pool (6^th).  Up to 7 Pintail were at the Alaw estuary (7 on 4^th, 4 on 9^th), while 5 were at Llyn Maelog (9^th), 2 were on the Inland Sea (3^rd) and 2 were at the Cefni reservoir (9^th).  2 Shoveler were on the Inland Sea (3^rd).  4 Goosander were on Llyn Maelog (9^th) and 161 Common Scoter flew past Point Lynas over a 2hr seawatch (9^th).

Raptors:

A juvenile Hobby was seen chasing hirundines at Malltraeth cob pool (3^rd).  Up to 2 Marsh Harrier were at the Alaw estuary (2 on 4^th, 1 on 6^th), while 2 were at Llyn Llywenan (7^th) and 1 at Cors Ddyga (9^th).  An Osprey was at the Alaw estuary (3^rd), with a number of sightings (9^th) perhaps relating to the same bird – Malltraeth cob pool, over Cors Ddyga and over the Afon Cefni.  A Red Kite was seen near Llannerchymedd (4^th), with 1 seen feeding on prey on a road near Pentraeth (7^th) and another over Cors Bodeilio (9^th).

Divers & Grebes:

A Great Northern Diver flew past Point Lynas (9^th) and a Red-throated Diver flew past Cemlyn (9^th).

 

2022 Year List:

Buff-breasted Sandpiper and White-winged Black Tern were both new for the year and takes the 2022 year list up to 208.

Saturday 27th August – Friday 2nd September 2022.

Introduction:

Always good to have an American wader locally …

Waders:

This week’s headline bird was a moulting adult American Golden Plover found at Cemlyn and the bird was still present late afternoon today (31^st- 2^nd).  It was initially found on a small islet off the shore near Tyn Llan, but could often also be seen on nearby fields.  The record has already been accepted by the Welsh Birds Rarity Committee.  Up to 9 European Golden Plover were at Cemlyn (9 on 30^th, 8 on 31^st – was 1 of the 9 possibly the AGP?), while 8 flew over Malltraeth cob pool (28^th).  Up to 5 Lapwing were at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (5 on 27^th, 4 on 1^st, 3 on 31^st).

Up to 3 Little Stint were at Malltraeth cob pool (3 on 2^nd, 2 on 1^st), with the same site also having up to 3 Curlew Sandpiper (3 on 27^th, 2 on 2^nd, 1 on 29^th&31^st).  A Green Sandpiper was at South Stack (27^th), while up to 2 were at the Alaw estuary (2 on 29^th, 1 on 1^st), up to 4 were at the eastern basin of Cefni reservoir (4 on 29^th, 2 on 27^th & 2^nd) and 1 was at Llyn Llygerian (2^nd).   There was a Common Sandpiper at Llyn Coron (27^th), with another at the Alaw estuary (29^th&1^st).

There were 12 Sanderling at Newborough beach – north of Llanddwyn (30^th), with 1 at Cemlyn (31^st).  Up to 3 Knot were at Malltraeth cob pool (3 on 27^th, 2 on 1^st), with 2 at the Alaw estuary (1^st), 1 at Cemlyn (31^st) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (1^st).  Malltraeth cob pool pulled in up to c. 250 Dunlin (c. 250 on 27^th, c. 240 on 30^th, c. 190 (28^th) and c.150 (1^st).  A Common Snipe was at Malltraeth cob pool (27^th&28^th), with 1 at The Range (30^th), 2 at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (1^st), 2 at Llyn Llygerian (1^st) and 1 at the Alaw estuary (1^st).

There were several sightings of Ruff, with up to 2 at Malltraeth cob pool (2 on 31^st, 1 on 27^th, 28^th, 1^st & 2^nd), 1 at Llyn Coron (27^th), 1 at Llyn Cefni (27^th), 1 at the Alaw estuary (29^th) and 1 at Cemlyn (31^st).  Sightings of Greenshank included up to 17 at the Alaw estuary (17 on 29^th, 14 on 1^st), 1 at Cefni reservoir (27^th), 1 at Llyn Penrhyn (29^th), up to 5 at Traeth Dulas (5 on 31^st, 2 on 1^st, 1 on 30^th), 1 at Silver Bay, Rhoscolyn (30^th), 1 at Cemlyn (31^st) and 1 at Valley cob (2^nd).  c.100 Redshank were at Malltraeth cob pool (c.100 on 27^th, 80+ on 28^th, c.60 on 30^th & 1^st) and up to 28 were at the Alaw estuary (28 on 29^th, 17 on 1^st).

Up to 27 Black-tailed Godwits were at Valley cob (27 on 29^th, 21 on 2^nd), with up to 15 at Malltraeth cob pool (15 on 1^st, 9 on 27^th, 8 on 28^th, 3 on 31^st), 6 on the Cefni estuary (31^st) and up to 5 at the Alaw estuary (5 on 29^th, 2 on 1^st 29^th).  Up to 21 Bar-tailed Godwits were at the Alaw estuary (21 on 1^st, 4 on 29^th).

Reports of Whimbrel included 1 at Silver Bay (30^th) and 1 at the Cefni estuary (31^st). 

Up to 176 Curlew were at the Alaw estuary (176 on 29^th, 97 on 1^st), with 128 at Traeth Dulas (30^th).  Up to 533 Oystercatcher were at the Alaw estuary (533 on 29^th, 326 on 1^st).

Passerines and others:

A Pied Flycatcher at South Stack (30^th) was a new addition to the 2022 year list, while a Common Redstart at Cors Ddyga RSPB (2^nd) was only the 3^rd for the year.   A Spotted Flycatcher at South Stack (30^th).  Chiffchaff was the most frequently reported warbler with 5 - 2 of which were singing - at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (1^st), up to 4 at South Stack (4 on 30^th, 2 on 27^th), 4 at the Breakwater Country Park (27^th) and 1 at The Range (30^th).  A solitary Willow Warbler was at South Stack (27^th&30^th).  Sightings of Blackcap included 1 at South Stack (27^th&30^th) and 2 at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (1^st).  7 Common Whitethroat were at South Stack (30^th) and a Lesser Whitethroat was at Cors Ddyga RSPB (2^nd).

Sightings of Whinchat included 1 at Cors Ddyga RSPB (1^st) and 1 at Cemlyn (1^st&2^nd).  There were 14 Northern Wheatear at The Range (30^th), with 2 at Cemlyn (31^st) and 1 at Point Lynas (28^th).  c. 35 House Martins at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (1^st), as were c.15 Sand Martins.  Reports of commoner finches included c. 60 Linnet at Point Lynas (28^th), 30 Linnet at Malltraeth cob pool (30^th), c. 275 Goldfinch at Point Lynas (28^th) and 50 Goldfinch at Cors Bodeillio (1^st).  32 Mistle Thrushes were counted between Talwrn and Llanbedrgoch (31^st).

A Hooded Crow was at Traeth Dulas (31^st), with another at the Alaw estuary (1^st).  A flock of 18 Chough were at South Stack (30^th).  A juvenile Cuckoo was at Cors Ddyga RSPB (2^nd).  Kingfishers appear to have had a good year on Anglesey with this week’s sightings including 1 at Valley cob (29^th), 4 at Llyn Penrhyn (29^th) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (29^th&30^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

A Cattle Egret was seen in fields north of the river at Cors Ddyga RSPB (28th – as viewed from stone bridge & 2^nd – as viewed from the metal bridge).  10 Grey Herons were at Cefni reservoir (27^th).  Up to 2 Water Rail were at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (2 on 1^st – 1 seen, 1 on 27^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

A Cory’s Shearwater was seen flying west past Point Lynas (1^st), while a Balearic Shearwater was seen feeding off the point (29^th).  3 Arctic Skuas were seen to fly past Cemlyn (31^st), with 2 past Bull Bay (31^st).  Sightings of Mediterranean Gull included an adult at Traeth Dulas (30^th), an adult at Beddmanarch Bay (31^st) and a juvenile at Traeth Dulas (31^st).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

Up to 62 Mute Swans were counted at Cefni reservoir (62 on 27^th, 47 on 31^st).  4 Barnacle Geese were at Malltraeth (28^th), with up to 3 at Llyn Coron (3 on 27^th, 2 on 29^th).  A Pink-footed Goose was at Malltraeth (28^th-29^th).

Up to 2 Garganey were at the east end of the Cefni reservoir (2 on 27^th, 1 on 2^nd), while Teal are returning in some numbers with up to 186 noted on the Alaw estuary (186 on 1^st, 3 on 29^th), c.60 at Malltraeth cob pool (27^th) and 35 at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (1^st).  10 Wigeon were on Malltraeth cob pool (31^st) and 5 were at the Cefni reservoir (31^st).  Up to 60 Gadwall were also at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (60 on 27^th, 25 on 1^st) as were 3 Shoveler (27^th).  30 Common Scoter flew past Point Lynas (28^th).  A Goosander was at the Alaw estuary (29^th).

Raptors:

Sightings of Marsh Harriers included 1 at Llyn Penrhyn (29^th), up to 3 at Llyn Llywenan (3 on 29^th, 2 on 31^st) and 1 at Llyn Coron (31^st).  An Osprey was seen to fly along the Menai Strait (29^th), with another at Rhoscolyn (1^st).  Up to 2 Red Kites were at Llyn Llywenan (2 on 29^th, 1 on 31^st), with 1 seen at Trefdraeth (1^st) and 1 between Talwrn and Pentraeth (2^nd).  The recent sighting of a Black Kite at Llyn Coron has been accepted by the Welsh Birds Rarity Committee.

Divers & Grebes:

The high concentration of Little Grebes at the Cefni reservoir continued with a count of 41 reported (31^st).  30+ were noted on the eastern basin (27^th), with c.20 seen on the western basin (1^st).

 

2022 Year List:

American Golden Plover and Pied Flycatcher were both new for the year and takes the 2022 year list up to 206.