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.

Saturday 20th August – Friday 26th August 2022.

Introduction:

Now is the time …

Seabirds & gulls:

It is turning out to be a good year for sightings of Balearic Shearwaters with 16 sightings so far in 2022, compared with 3 in ’21 and 7 in ’20.  This week’s sightings included 1 past Cemlyn (20^th), 1 past Wylfa Head (21^st), 2 past Cemlyn (22^nd), 2 Cemlyn (23^rd AM), 2 past Llam Carw (23^rd PM), 1 past Wylfa Head (24^th), 1 past Point Lynas (25^th), 2 north past The Range (25^th) and 1 past Point Lynas (26^th).  It is impossible to know how many birds have been involved as it is conceivable that some birds may be on a feeding circuit in the Irish Sea / Liverpool Bay and may pass coastal viewpoints on a number of occasions. 

Despite the benign weather conditions, it seems that now is the time to get out there to look.  Following an online discussion on whether late August may be the best time to search for this species, Ken Croft @AngleseyBirdman looked back at both his personal records and those in published reports going back to 1974.  He found only 4 records in July, before numbers peaked in August at 97 then 93 in September then falling to 31 in October and 5 in November.  Breaking down the August and September numbers further showed that there were 6 records for the 1st week of August, 28 for the 2nd, 16 for the 3rd and a massive 47 for 4^th and final days of August. September breaks down to 36 in the 1st week, 24 in the 2nd. 24 in the 3rd and 9 in the last week.  So, if you are looking to see a Balearic Shearwater off the Anglesey coast the remaining few days of August and 1^st week of September look like your best bet.

Counts of Manx Shearwaters included 561 north past the Range (270 minutes on 25^th), 145 past Wylfa Head (150 mins on 23^rd), 48 past Wylfa Head (120 mins on 24^th) and 32 off North stack (60 mins, 20^th).  110 Gannets flew past The Range (25^th), with 44 seen off North stack (60 mins, 20^th).

Arctic Skuas were also very much being recorded along the north coast with 1 past Point Lynas (21^st), 2 past Wylfa Head (21^st), 1 past Cemlyn (21^st), 5 past Cemlyn (23^rd), 3 past Wylfa Head (23^rd AM), 1 past Llam Carw (23^rd PM) and 1 past Wylfa Head (24^th).  Whilst there may have been some potential for birds being counted at more than one site on some dates, it has nonetheless been a good week to catch up with one.

The highlight among the gulls was a juvenile Little Gull seen to fly west past Point Lynas (21^st).  The highest count of Mediterranean Gulls was 32 at the Inland Sea (21^st), with up to 2 juveniles at Cemlyn (2 on 20^th, 1 on 23^rd) and a up to 3 at Traeth Dulas (2 2^nd calendar year 25^th, 1 2^nd calendar year 20^th&22^nd and 1 juvenile on 25^th).  85 Sandwich Terns were counted flying west past Wylfa Head (150 mins on 23^rd) and 41 north past The Range (270 minutes on the 25^th).  252 Kittiwakes flew past The Range (25^th).  A juvenile Black Guillemot was off Cemlyn (20^th).

Divers & Grebes:

It has been a long while since the last Divers were seen off the coast, but this week’s seawatching produced the first returning birds for the summer / autumn period.  A summer plumaged Great Northern Diver was seen to fly past Point Lynas (21^st) and 2 Red-throated Divers flew SW past Wylfa Head (24th) and then presumably the same 2 past Cemlyn (24^th).

There were 2 good counts of Little Grebes with 42 at the Cefni reservoir (23^rd) and 37 at Llyn Llygeirian (21^st).

Waders:

2 Purple Sandpipers were at Cemlyn (20^th), up to 3 Green Sandpipers were at Llyn Llygeirian (3 on 21^st, 1-2 on 25^th) with 1 at Malltraeth cob pool (24^th) while counts of Common Sandpiper included 3 at Cemlyn (21^st), 2 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd), up to 2 at Traeth Dulas (2 on 24^th, 1 on 22^nd-23^rd) and 1 flew past Wylfa Head (23^rd).

6 Sanderling were at the Inland Sea (23^rd), with 1 was at the Alaw estuary (23^rd).  A Knot was at Cemlyn (20^th), with 1 at the Inland Sea (23^rd).  3 Golden Plover were at Cemlyn (23^rd), a Grey Plover was at Cemlyn (21^st-24^th) and double digit counts of Common Ringed Plover included 60 birds at Malltraeth (23^rd), 76 at the Inland Sea (23^rd) and 19 at the Alaw estuary (23^rd).  Up to 6 Lapwing at the Cefni reservoir (6 on 25^th, 5 on 23^rd).  Double-digit counts of Dunlin included 60 birds on the Inland Sea (23^rd), 80+ on the cob pool, Malltraeth (25^th) and 210 on Malltraeth cob pool (23^rd).  6 Turnstones were at The Range (21^st).  There were 13 Common Snipe at Cefni reservoir (23^rd), with 1 at Tyn llan pool, Cemlyn (25^th).

A Spotted Redshank was at Cemlyn (21^st-22^nd), while sightings of Redshank included 64 birds at the Inland Sea (21^st), 26 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd) and 18 at Traeth Dulas (24^th).  Reports of Greenshank included 18 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd), up to 3 at Traeth Dulas (3 on 21^st, 1 on 20^th&24^th), 2 at Cemlyn (21^st) and 1 at the Cefni reservoir (25^th).  2 Black-tailed Godwits flew in off the sea at Cemlyn (20^th), while up to 14 were at the Inland Sea (14 on 21^st, 9 on 23^rd), 4 were on the river at Malltraeth (23^rd) and 5 at Malltraeth cob pool (23^rd&24^th).

Sightings of Whimbrel are on the up with up to 6 at Cemlyn (6 on 25^th, 2 on 23^rd), 3 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd), 2 at The Range (21^st), up to 2 at Traeth Dulas (2 on 24^th-25^th, 1 on 20^th-21^st) and 1 flew past Wylfa Head (23^rd).

Up to 128 Curlew were at the Alaw estuary (128 on 22^nd, 82 on 23^rd), while 50+ were on the estuary at Malltraeth (25^th) and 41 were at Traeth Dulas (24^th).  Up to 325 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (325 on 23^rd, 233 on 22^nd).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

Up to 3 Garganey were still at the west end of the Cefni reservoir (3 on 24^th, 1 on 23^rd&25^th), with 1 at Malltraeth cob-pool (25^th).  Teal are featuring more often in sighting reports, with 9 at Traeth Dulas (22^nd), 6 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd) and 10 that flew past Wylfa Head (24^th).  5 Wigeon were at Cefni reservoir (23^rd) and 2 were on the Inland Sea (23^rd).  Goosander are starting to return to the island for the winter with 1 on the Alaw estuary (22^nd) and 1 at Malltraeth (23^rd).  Up to 60 Common Scoter flew past Wylfa Head (60 during 150 mins on 23^rd, 4 during 120 mins on 24^th) with 9 past The Range (25^th) and 18 past Point Lynas (26^th).  The 3 Black Swans continued their stay at the Inland Sea (21^st-23^rd).  48 Mute Swans were at Cefni reservoir (23^rd) and 58 Greylag Geese were noted at Traeth Dulas (21^st).

Passerines and others:

There were still a few warblers to be seen, which included a Sedge Warbler at Cemlyn (23^rd), 3 Blackcaps at Breakwater Country Park – BCP (20^th), 2 Chiffchaff at BCP (24^th), 3 Willow Warblers at BCP (24^th), 3 Cetti’s Warbler at Cors Ddyga (22^nd) and a Lesser Whitethroat at Ynys y Fydlyn (21^st).  Common Whitethroats were the most reported warbler with up to 8 at Cemlyn (8 on 25^th, 2 on 23^rd), up to 4 at The Range (4 on 21^st, 2 on 25^th), 4 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (24^th) and 1 at Ynys y Fydlyn (21^st).

A Whinchat continues to be seen at Cemlyn (20^th-25^th), with sightings of Northern Wheatears including up to 9 at The Range (9 on 21^st, 1 on 20^th&25^th) and 2 at Cemlyn (24^th). 

40 House Martins flew past Wylfa Head (150 mins on 23^rd), while an estimated 10,000 Swallows came into roost at Cors Ddyga (22^nd).  Finches are also starting to form large flocks with c.60 Linnets and 60 Goldfinch seen by the Pilot’s building at Point Lynas.

The 1^st Grey Wagtail was back at Soldier’s Point, Holyhead (24^th).  Kingfishers were reported from multiple sites with 2 at Cemlyn (2 on 21^st, 1 on 22^nd), 1 at Traeth Dulas (22^nd&24^th), 1 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd) and 1 at Cefni reservoir (26^th).  A juvenile Cuckoo was at Hen Borth (21^st), with another at Llyn Llywenan (23^rd).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

19 Little Egrets were at Cemlyn (25^th), with 15 at Traeth Dulas (22^nd) and 12 at the Alaw estuary (22^nd).  3 Water Rail were heard calling at Cors Ddyga (22^nd).

Raptors:

A Hobby flew north over Cors Ddyga (21^st), a Merlin was at Ynys y Fydlyn (21^st) and a Goshawk flew over between Pentre Berw and Llangaffo (23^rd).  Sightings of Marsh Harriers included 1 at Llyn Llywenan (20^th&23^rd), 2 at Cors Ddyga (22^nd) and 1 at Llyn Maelog (25^th).  A Red Kite flew over Talwrn (22^nd).

 

2022 Year List:

There were no new additions to the 2022 year list which remains on 204.

 

Thanks to all contributors:

A big thanks to all those who share details of their sightings to enable this summary to be put together.  It always seems quite incredible just how many species of birds are seen on Anglesey each week.  We are fortunate to enjoy such a range of habitats and species.

Saturday 13th August – Friday 19th August 2022.

Introduction:

Light winds provided some seawatching opportunities and falling freshwater levels pulled in a few waders and dabbling ducks.

Seabirds & gulls:

A Black Tern was seen feeding off Point Lynas (18^th&19^th), as were up to 5 Arctic Skuas (5 on 18^th, 1 on 19^th) and 1 Great Skua (19^th).  An Arctic Skua was seen off Cemlyn (17^th).

Mediterranean Gulls were seen at a number of locations including 1 at Cemlyn (juv on 14^th), 2-3 at Traeth Dulas (juv on 15^th, ad on 17^th, juv on 19^th), 1 off Penrhos Coastal car park (2^nd cal year 16^th), 1 at Salt Island, Holyhead (ad on 16^th), 1 at Traeth Lligwy (17^th) and 3 off Point Lynas (18^th).  A Norwegian darvic ringed Common Gull was at Traeth Dulas (15^th).

Waders:

3 Green Sandpipers were at Llyn Llywenan (18^th) and 2 were at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (15^th).  Sightings of Common Sandpipers included up to 2 at Traeth Dulas (2 on 14^th, 1 on 13^th&19^th), 1 at Llyn Llywenan (16^th&18^th) and 3 at the Alaw estuary (16^th&19^th).

2 summer plumaged Grey Plovers were at the Alaw estuary (17^th) and 9 Golden Plover were at Cemlyn (14^th).  Common Ringed Plover and Dunlin are appearing at most suitable habitats.  The largest reported concentrations of Common Ringed Plover involved c. 60 at Traeth Dulas (14^th) and 31 at the Alaw estuary (19^th), while Dunlin numbers included c. 40 at Traeth Dulas (14^th) and 50 at the Alaw estuary (19^th).

The Alaw estuary had a single Knot (13^th) and a single Sanderling (13^th).  Up to 2 Common Snipe were at Llyn Llywenan (2 on 14^th, 1 on 16^th) and 2 Lapwing were at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (13^th).

Sightings of Greenshank included up to 15 at the Alaw estuary (15 on 19^th, 9 on 16^th), up to 9 at Llyn Penrhyn (9 on 19^th, 8 on 17^th), up to 5 at Traeth Dulas (5 on 19^th, 1 on 13^th), 1 at Cemlyn (13^th) and 1 at the Cefni reservoir (15^th).  45 Redshank were at Traeth Dulas (14^th) and up to 22 were at the Alaw estuary (22 on 19^th, 18 on 16^th).

2 Black-tailed Godwits were at Cemlyn (13^th) and 2 Bar-tailed Godwits were at the Alaw estuary (19^th).  Sightings of Whimbrel included up to 2 at the Alaw estuary (2 on 13^th, 1 on 19^th), 1 at Cemlyn (14^th) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (19^th).  100+ Curlew were at Red Wharf Bay (13^th), with up to 105 at the Alaw estuary (105 on 19^th, 68 on 16^th).  Up to 402 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (402 on 16^th, 271 on 19^th), with 40+ at Red Wharf Bay (13^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

The eclipse plumage Ring-necked Duck was seen again at Llyn Penrhyn (14^th).  3 Garganey were at the Bodfordd end of the Cefni reservoir (19^th).  Up to 76 Mute Swans were at the Cefni reservoir (76 on 13^th, 46 on (14^th) and 118 Greylag Geese were on the Alaw estuary (19^th).  A Common Scoter was at the Alaw estuary (13^th) – a site first for the observer.

Passerines and others:

There was a little burst of summer migrants at Cemlyn with a Yellow Wagtail (13^th), a Tree Pipit over (14^th), up to 2 Whinchat (2 on 14^th & 17^th, 1 on 13^th) and 2 Northern Wheatear (13^th&14^th).

Warblers are still present in small numbers and included Sedge Warblers at Tyn Llan pool, Cemlyn (15^th) and The Range, Holyhead (15^th), Whitethroats at South Stack (15th) and The Range, Holyhead (15^th), a Blackcap at The Range (15^th) and a Willow Warbler at Llyn Llywenan (16^th).  300+ Sand Martins were over Llyn Maelog (16^th).

Kingfishers were seen at Cefni reservoir (13^th), Cemlyn (13^th), Traeth Dulas (14^th&19^th) and the Alaw estuary (19^th).  A juvenile Cuckoo was at Llyn Llywenan (16^th) and 3 Jays were at the Cefni reservoir (15^th).  Sightings of Hooded Crows included 1 at Traeth Dulas (17^th&19^th) and 1 at the Alaw estuary (19^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies: The Purple Heron was seen again at Cors Ddyga (14^th) and a Great Egret was at Cefni reservoir (13^th).  The high concentration of Little Egrets at Cors Ddyga continued – c. 60 (13^th) with 14 at Traeth Dulas (19^th).  Water Rails were heard calling at Cors Ddyga (13^th) and Cors Erddreiniog (13^th), with 3 at the Cefni reservoir (14^th).  25 Moorhens were counted at Cefni reservoir (14^th).

Raptors:

Sightings of Marsh Harriers included 1 at Llyn Llywenan (14^th,16^th&18^th), 1 at Cemlyn (17^th) and 1 at Llyn Penrhyn (17^th).  Records of Red Kites included 1 between Talwrn and Llangefni (13^th), 1 at the Cefni reservoir (15^th), 1 at Llyn Llywenan (16^th) and 1 at Brynsiencyn (19^th).

Divers & Grebes:

38 Little Grebes and 1 Great Crested Grebe with 2 young were noted at the Cefni reservoir (13^th).  A Little Grebe was in Holyhead Harbour – the observer’s first returning bird at this site (17^th). 3 broods of Great Crested Grebes were on Llyn Penrhyn (19^th).

 

2022 Year List:

There were no new additions to the 2022 year list which remains on 204.

Saturday 6th August – Friday 12th August 2022.

Introduction:

When will one stick for a while…

Raptors:

Anglesey has had a good run of sightings of Black Kites over recent years, but these are invariably single observer sightings and so it was once again when one was seen in flight at Llyn Coron (7^th).  It would be good to have one favouring an area for a short while to allow others to catch up with this sought-after species.

Sightings of Marsh Harriers included 2 at RSPB Cors Ddyga (6^th), 1 at Rhoscolyn (9^th), 1 at Llyn Llywenan (10^th) and 1 at Llyn Alaw (12^th).  A Red Kite drifted north over Talwrn (9^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

An Arctic Skua flew past Cemlyn (6^th), but there was otherwise little in the way of scarce sightings from seawatching as high pressure dominated the weather.  Sightings of Mediterranean Gulls included 20 at the North end of the Inland Sea (6^th), 4 at Rhoscolyn (9^th), up to 3 at Cemlyn (3 on 9^th, 1 on 6^th), 3 at the Braint estuary (9^th) and 3 at Traeth Dulas (9^th).  It was confirmed that a pair of Mediterranean Gulls successfully bred at Cemlyn, with 2 young fledging.  A Black Guillemot was offshore between Traeth Llydan and Borthwen, near Rhoscolyn (8^th).

Waders:

A Curlew Sandpiper was seen at Malltraeth cob pool (7^th-8^th), with another on the Cefni estuary, Malltraeth (7^th).  A Green Sandpiper was at the Bodforrdd end of the Cefni reservoir (9^th) and another was at Llyn Llywenan (12^th).  Sightings of Common Sandpiper included 4 on the Cefni estuary (7^th), up to 3 on the Alaw estuary (3 on 6^th & 10^th), 1 at Traeth Dulas (9^th) and 1 at Valley cob (12^th).  Further evidence of the return migration of waders came in the form of the 1^st Knot returning to the Alaw estuary (10^th) and the 1^st Grey Plover returning to Cemlyn (12^th).  15 Common Ringed Plover were on the Alaw estuary (10^th), 3 Lapwing were at the Bodforrdd end of the Cefni reservoir (9^th) and 3 Lapwing were at Llyn Llywenan (9^th). 

Up to 17 Greenshank were at the Alaw estuary (17 on 10^th, 9 on 6^th), with 4 at the Cefni estuary (7^th).  Up to 29 Redshank were on the Alaw estuary (29 on 6^th, 11 on 10^th), with 2 at Valley Cob (12^th).  3 Ruff were seen on Malltraeth cob pool (6^th), while 2 Bar-tailed Godwit were on the Alaw estuary (10^th).  Sightings of Whimbrel included up to 2 at Alaw estuary (2 on 10^th, 1 on 6^th), 1 at Rhoscolyn (6^th) and 1 Traeth Dulas (6^th).  3 Common Snipe were at RSPB Cors Ddyga (6^th), with 11 at Llyn Llywenan (12^th).  Up to 103 Curlew were on the Alaw estuary (103 on 10^th, 87 on 6^th) and there were up to 253 Oystercatcher on the Alaw estuary (253 on 6^th, 210 on 10^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

The 3 Black Swans remained at the north end of the Inland Sea (6^th), while 74 Greylag Geese were on the Alaw estuary (6^th).  A Garganey was at the Bodforrdd end of the Cefni reservoir (9^th), as was a single Wigeon (9^th).  10+ Northern Shovelers were at Llyn Llywenan (12^th) and 45 Gadwall were at RSPB Cors Ddyga (12^th).  A Goosander was at Cemlyn (12^th).

Passerines and others:

A Yellow Wagtail was seen at Cemlyn (6^th,9^th,12^th), while sightings of Northern Wheatears included 3 at Cemlyn (6^th), 3 at The Range, Holyhead (11^th), 2 at Rhoscolyn (6^th) and 1 at Soldier’s Point, Holyhead (12^th).  Mynydd Bodafon had a small fall on migrants with 5 Spotted Flycatchers (9^th), a Redstart (9^th) and a Grasshopper Warbler (9^th).  2 Common Whitethroat were at South Stack, with 1 on The Range (11^th).  A Blackcap was at South Stack (11^th), as were 2 Willow Warblers (11^th).  c. 10,000 Swallows and c.500 Starlings came into roost at the main reedbed at RSPB Cors Ddyga (12^th).  Sightings of Kingfisher included 1 at RSPB Cors Ddyga (6^th), 1 at Traeth Dulas (9^th) and 1 on the pontoon off the pier at Beaumaris (10^th).  Juvenile Cuckoos were seen at RSPB Cors Ddyga (8^th) and at Llyn Llywenan (9^th).  A Hooded Crow was at Bwa Gwyn, west of Rhoscolyn (6^th), with 2 at the Alaw estuary (6^th) and 1 at Treath Dulas (12^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

A Purple Heron was seen again – mostly in flight - around the main reedbed at RSPB Cors Ddyga - as viewed from the Morfa Mawr track (6^th-11^th).  A Great Egret was at RSPB Cors Ddyga (6^th).  23 Little Egrets were at Traeth Dulas (23 on 9^th, 19 on 7^th) and 64 came into roost at RSPB Cors Ddyga (12^th).

Divers & Grebes:

No sightings of note.

 

2022 Year List:

Black Kite was a new addition to the 2022 year list which ticks up to 204.

Saturday 30th July – Friday 5th August 2022.

Introduction:

A gift from the Mediterranean …

Seabirds & gulls:

The wind moved to the NW late in the week and produced some good seawatching.  Balearic Shearwater was a new bird for the year with 1 past Wylfa Head at 8.15am (4^th), 1 past Point Lynas at 8.30am (4^th) and 1 past Cemlyn (5^th).  A Cory’s Shearwater was reported off Rhoscolyn (4^th).  5 Arctic Skuas were seen to fly past Cemlyn, with 3 (5^th) and 2 (4^th).  c. 2000 Manx Shearwater flew west past Point Lynas over 90 minutes (4^th), with other counts including up to 773 past The Range during seawatches of 1hr duration (773 on 31^st, 182 on 4^th).  Up to 47 Gannets flew past The Range (47 on 31^st, 9 on 4^th), with 300 Kittiwakes past Point Lynas (4^th).  Sightings of Mediterranean Gulls included 4 juveniles (3^rd) and 2, 2^nd summer birds (5^th) at Traeth Dulas.  3 Common Gulls were at the Alaw estuary (3^rd) – the 1^st returning birds at this site.

Waders:

A Little Ringed Plover and chick (presumably from the 2^nd brood) were seen at RSPB Cors Ddyga (30^th-31^st), with sightings of Common Ringed Plover including 8 at the Alaw estuary (1^st) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (2^nd).  A Purple Sandpiper was at Cemlyn (3^rd), with sightings of Common Sandpiper including up to 4 at Traeth Dulas (4 on 30^th, 2 on 2^nd, 1 on 5th) and 1 at the Alaw estuary (3^rd).  Up to 14 Sanderling were at the Alaw estuary (14 on 3^rd, 4 on 1^st), while sightings of Dunlin included up to 12 at the Alaw estuary (12 on 1^st, 5 on 3^rd) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (2^nd).  12 Greenshank were at the Alaw estuary (3^rd), with 9 at Malltraeth (31^st-1^st).  The Alaw estuary also hosted 17 Redshank (3^rd).  24 Black-tailed Godwits were at Malltraeth (31^st-1^st), with up to 7 at Traeth Dulas (7 on 31^st, 3 on 2^nd).  Up to 3 Bar-tailed Godwits were at the Alaw estuary (3 on 1^st, 2 on 3^rd), with 1 at Traeth Dulas (2^nd).  Sightings of Whimbrel included 4 at Malltraeth (31^st-1^st), 2 at Red Wharf Bay (31^st), 1 at the Alaw estuary (1^st&3^rd) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (5^th).  6 Lapwing were at RSPB Cors Ddyga (1^st), up to 127 Curlew were at the Alaw estuary (127 on 1^st, 106 on 3^rd) and up to 375 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (375 on 3^rd, 276 on 1^st).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

The drake Ring-necked Duck was seen at Llyn Penrhyn on several days (30^th-4^th).  Llyn Penrhyn also had 10 Pochard (1^st), 12 Gadwall (1^st) and c. 30 Tufted Duck (1^st). 

Up to 9 Common Scoter flew past The Range (9 on 31^st, 3 on 4^th).

Passerines and others:

A Yellow Wagtail was seen at Tyn Llan fields, Cemlyn (1^st-2^nd), with another seen in flight over RSPB Cors Ddyga (5^th).  2 Blackcaps and a Common Whitethroat were at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (3^rd).  Sightings of Kingfisher included 1 at Llyn Penrhyn (1^st), 1 at Traeth Dulas (5^th) and 2 at RSPB Cors Ddyga (5^th).  A Dipper was at the Dingle, Llangefni (1^st).

Sightings of Hooded Crows included 2 on the Alaw estuary (3^rd) and 1 at Traeth Dulas (30^th, 31^st, 2^nd).  7 Jays were seen at the edge of woodland above Red Wharf Bay near Pentraeth (31^st).  60 Swallows were over the saltmarsh at Red Wharf Bay (31^st), with 15 House Martins seen over Llyn Penrhyn (1^st).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

A Purple Heron was seen to fly over the main reedbed at RSPB Cors Ddyga - as viewed from the Morfa Mawr track - on two dates (3^rd & 5^th).  A Great Egret was at RSPB Cors Ddyga (5^th), while 14 Little Egrets were at Traeth Dulas (31^st).

Raptors:

An Osprey was at Malltraeth (31^st-1^st), while Marsh Harriers were seen at Llyn Penrhyn (1^st) and at RSPB Cors Ddyga (5^th).  A Red Kite was seen over Bryn Refail (4^th).

Divers & Grebes:

6 Great-crested Grebe were at Llyn Penrhyn (1^st).

2022 Year List:

Balearic Shearwater was a new addition to the 2022 year list which ticks up to 203.