Saturday 22nd October – Friday 28th October 2022.

Introduction:                                         

…  Fabulous Firecrests …

Passerines and others:

It has been somewhat of a bumper year for Firecrests, with at least 14 birds seen on the island this year so far.  In 2020 there were just 4 records, with 5 in 2021.  Sightings this week included 2 at South Stack (22^nd), up to 4 at Wylfa woods (4 heard on 23^rd, 3 seen on 24^th, 2 seen on 22^nd&27^th), 1 at Moelfre in bushes by the RNLI car park (27^th) and 1 at Brynteg (27^th).

A Yellow-browed Warbler was at a private garden north of Llanfairynghornwy (23^rd-28^th), with another in trees surrounding a patch of rough ground to the west of access road to Octel, Amlwch Port (24^th).  5 Chiffchaff were at Wylfa woods (24^th), with 1 at Soldier’s Point (24^th) and 1 at South Stack (25^th).  A Willow Warbler was at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (27^th).  Sightings of Blackcap included 1 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (23^rd-f), 2 at Wylfa woods (24^th), 1 west of the access road to Octel, Amlwch Port (24^th - f), 1 near the former Octel social club (25^th - m) and 1 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (26^th&27^th – m).

It was a good week for Ring Ouzel with 1 at South Stack (22^nd) and up to 3 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park, Holyhead (3 on 23^rd, 1 from 25^th-28^th).  A Woodlark flew over Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (25^th), a Tree Sparrow flew west at Point Lynas (28^th) and up to 3 Lapland Buntings flew over South Stack (3 on 23^rd, 1 on 25^th).  Other flyovers at South Stack (23^rd) included 3 Brambling and 42 Siskin. 

A Sand Martin was at Traeth Lligwy (25^th) and a Barn Swallow was seen at Llanbadrig (24^th).  A Treecreeper at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (26^th) was only Ken Croft’s 2^nd site record in 48 years!  Up to 2 Kingfisher were at Holyhead Harbour (2 on 23^rd, 1 on 25^th), 1 was at Cemlyn (23rd) and 1 was near the bridge at Malltraeth (27^th).

Waders:

A Curlew Sandpiper was at Traeth Dulas (25^th) and a Common Sandpiper was at Holyhead Harbour (25^th).  A single Knot was at the Alaw estuary (24^th), as were 95 Dunlin (24^th) and 10 Turnstone (24^th). 

35 Grey Plover were at the Alaw estuary (24^th), 89 Ringed Plover were at the Alaw estuary (24^th) and 44 Lapwing were seen in flight over Gadfa (27^th).  A Ruff was at the Alaw estuary (24^th), as were 22 Bar-tailed Godwits (24^th).  Sightings of Greenshank included 1 at Pont Cadnant, near Menai Bridge (23^rd), up to 8 at Traeth Dulas (8 on 28^th, 5 on 24^th) and 2 at the Alaw estuary (24^th).  30 Redshank were at Traeth Dulas (24^th), with 23 at the Alaw estuary (24^th).  49 Curlew were at the Alaw estuary (24^th) and 266 Oystercatchers were at the Alaw estuary (24^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

The Long-tailed Duck was seen again off Benllech (22^nd), while other sea ducks included 3 Eider off Benllech (22^nd), a Eider duck off Beddmanarch Bay (26^th) and 66 Common Scoter off Benllech (22^nd).  A female Goldeneye was at Cemlyn (23^rd) and there was a report of a drake Scaup at Llyn Penrhyn (date unspecified).

2 Whooper Swans continued their stay at Twr reservoir, South Stack (23^rd – 27^th), as did 2 on fields off the approach road to Cemlyn (23^rd).  57 Pale-bellied Brent Geese were at the Alaw estuary (24^th).  196 Wigeon were at the Alaw estuary (24^th), 39 Pintail were at the Alaw estuary (24^th), while counts of Teal included 200+ at Llyn Coron (23^rd) and 61 at the Alaw estuary (24^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

Sightings Mediterranean Gull included 1 at Pont Cadnant, near Menai Bridge (23^rd), 2 at Traeth Dulas (24^th) and 7 at the Alaw estuary (24^th).  A Black Guillemot was at Holyhead Harbour (25^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

A Water Rail was heard at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (25^th-26^th) – the first of this autumn period.

Raptors:

A Short-eared Owl flew over Point Lynas (24^th), while 2 were seen to fly in over the sea at Soldier’s Point, Holyhead (27^th).  A Marsh Harrier was at Llyn Coron (23^rd), with another at Llyn Llywenan (27^th). Sightings of Merlin included 1 at Henborth, Cemlyn (23^rd), 1 at South Stack (24^th), 1 at Llyn Llywenan (27^th) and 1 at Point Lynas (28^th).

Divers & Grebes:

A Great Northern Diver was seen off Cemlyn (23^rd), with another at Beddmanarch Bay (23^rd) and 1 off Porth y Mor, near Lligwy (28^th).  Sightings of Red-throated Divers included 3 off Benllech (22^nd), 1 at Beddmanarch Bay (23^rd) and 1 off Porth-y-Mor (28^th).

2022 Year List:

There were no new additions to the 2022-year list which remains at 215.

Saturday 15th October – Friday 21st October 2022.

Introduction:                                         

… late migrants and winter visitors …

Passerines and others:

Wood Lark and Richard’s Pipit are less than annual on Anglesey so sightings of both this week were noteworthy.  The Wood Lark flew over South Stack (20^th), while the Richard’s Pipit was on a field at Porth Nobla, near Rhosneigr (21^st) but was only visible in flight.  A Lapland Bunting flew over calling at Llyn Alaw (20^th), with another over South Stack (20^th).  8 Brambling flew over South Stack (20^th) and 3 Redpoll were seen feeding in alders at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (20^th).  Winter thrushes arrived in good numbers with 2283 Fieldfare and 873 Redwing counted over South Stack (19^th) and a large arrival of Blackbirds noted at multiple sites across the week.

A Yellow-browed Warbler was at Amlwch water treatment plant (16^th).  Chiffchaffs were seen at several sites including 2 at South Stack (16^th),1 at Porth Eilian (16^th), 1 at Octel, Amlwch (16^th), 1 at Wylfa woods (19^th-20^th) and 1 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (20^th&21^st).  Up to 4 Blackcaps were at Amlwch water treatment plant (4 on 20^th – 2m, 2f, 2 on 16^th 1m, 1f), 3 were at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (20^th – 2m, 18^th – 1f), 2 were at Wylfa woods (20^th), 1 was at Soldier’s Point, Holyhead (20^th) and 1 was at South Stack (20th – 1 m).  It was another excellent week for Firecrests, with 1 on the edge of Pentre Gwyddel housing estate, Rhoscolyn (15^th), 1 at Penmon Point (16^th), 3 at Wylfa woods (18^th) and 1 at South Stack (18^th-20^th).

There was a late Sand Martin at Llyn Llywenan (15^th), while sightings of Swallows included 1 at Llyn Llywenan (16^th), 2 at Point Lynas (16^th) and 2 at Tyn Llan farm, Cemlyn (16^th).  A late Northern Wheatear was on the headland at Silver Bay, Rhoscolyn (15^th), with another at Cemlyn (20^th).  A Kingfisher was at Cemlyn (16^th), with another at Holyhead harbour (20^th).  A Hooded Crow was at South Stack (18^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

There were no particular species or numbers of note across the week.

Waders:

A Green Sandpiper was at Valley cob (20^th), while sightings of Common Sandpiper included 1 at Holyhead harbour (18^th & 20^th) and 1 at Valley cob (19^th).  Up to 3 Greenshank were at Traeth Dulas (3 on 20^th, 1 on 15^th), while 2 were at Valley cob (20^th) and 2 were at Rhoscolyn (20^th).  28 Redshank were on the brickworks pool, Traeth Dulas (15^th), while 21 were at Rhoscolyn (20^th).  A Whimbrel was at Cemlyn (16^th) and c. 80 Curlew were at Traeth Dulas (15^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

49 Little Egret were feeding on the Inland Sea as viewed from the Anchorage (20^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

Anglesey has done well over the past few years to have at least 1 wintering Long-tailed Duck and hopes were raised for the forthcoming winter by a duck initially seen off Traeth Bychan (15^th) and then off Benllech (16^th&19^th).

Whooper Swans were reported from a number locations which included up to 4 at South Stack (4 on 20^th, 3 on 18^th, 2 on 21^st), 3 at Llyn Alaw (15^th&16^th) and 2 near Cemlyn (17^th-18^th).  80+ Pale-bellied Brent Geese were at Beddmanarch Bay (15^th), 200+ Wigeon were at Rhoscolyn (20^th), 3 Pintail were at Malltraeth cob (19^th) and 25 Common Scoter were off Benllech (16^th).

Raptors:

Sightings of Red Kite included 1 at Cors-y-Bol, between Llyn Alaw and Llyn Llywenan (15^th), 1 at Llyn Llywenan (15^th&16^th), 1 over Bethel (17^th) and 1 over Talwrn (18^th).  Up to 2 Marsh Harriers were at Llyn Llywenan (2 on 16^th, 1 on 15^th), with 1 at Cors-y-Bol (15^th).  A female Merlin was watched chasing Starlings at Cemlyn (20^th).

Divers & Grebes:

A Great Northern Diver was seen off Cemlyn (15^th).  Reports of Red-throated Divers included 1 at Beddmanarch Bay (15^th), 3 off Benllech (16^th) and 4 that flew west past North Stack (17^th).

2022 Year List:

Wood Lark and Richard’s Pipit were new additions to the 2022 year list which creeps up to 215.

Saturday 8th October – Friday 14th October 2022.

Introduction:                                         

… warblers and crests…

Passerines and others:

Whilst the UK is this year notching up an impressive list of American passerines, there regrettably hasn’t been anything for Anglesey or indeed for North Wales.  A Yellow-browed Warbler at Wylfa woods (8^th-10^th) was probably the highlight bird for the week albeit that it could be rather elusive.  Up to 4 Chiffchaff were also at Wylfa woods (4 on 13^th, 1 on 8^th) with single birds at South Stack (8^th & 11^th), the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (11^th) and Octel, Amlwch (14^th).  Up to 3 Blackcap were around the Amlwch water treatment plant (3 on 13^th, 2 on 14th), with single birds at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (11^th) and at Soldiers Point Holyhead.   Cetti’s Warblers were singing at Llyn Maelog (10^th) and Valley wetlands (10^th).

A Firecrest was at Wylfa woods (9^th-11^th), while up to 5 Goldcrest were at South Stack (5 on 11^th, 4 on 8^th, 3 on 9^th&14^th) with 3 at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (11^th).  A late House Martin was at South Stack (8^th), while sightings of Swallows included 5 at Rhoscolyn (13^th), 4 feeding under the shelter of the quarry face at Holyhead Breakwater country park (9^th) and 1 at South Stack (10^th).

2 Brambling flew over South Stack (13^th) and 8 Crossbills flew over Wylfa woods (13^th).  A Grey Wagtail was at Soldiers Point, Holyhead (11^th), while 3 Skylarks flew over the point (9^th).  3 Redwing were at Rhoscolyn (13^th) and 2 were at Llanlleianna (14^th).  2 Kingfishers were off Malltraeth bridge (14^th), with other sightings including 1 at Traeth Dulas (10^th), 1 at Valley wetlands (10^th), 1 at Valley cob (10^th) and 1 on the Afon Cefni, close to the Council Offices at Llangefni (10^th-14^th).  A Hooded Crow was at South Stack (14^th).

Seabirds & gulls:

It was quiet on the seawatching front with the best birds being 3 Arctic Skuas past Point Lynas (8^th) along with 2 Manx Shearwaters (8^th).  An adult Little Gull was seen from a boat off Dulas (13^th), with sighting of Mediterranean Gulls including 29 at Beddmanarch Bay (9^th), 6 between Cymyran and Valley cob (14^th), 1 off the headland at Holyhead Breakwater country park (9^th), a 2^nd winter at Llyn Maelog (10^th) and a 1^st winter at Llyn Coron (11^th).  2 Arctic Terns were seen from a boat off Dulas (13^th) and 20 ‘Commic’ (Common or Arctic) Terns flew past Point Lynas (8^th).  A Black Guillemot was in the outer harbour, Holyhead (11^th), while another flew east past Point Lynas (13^th).

Waders:

A Common Sandpiper was at Holyhead harbour (9^th) and 230+ Dunlin were at Penmon pool (9^th).  2 Jack Snipe were at Traeth Dulas (10^th), with sightings of Common Snipe including 11 at Traeth Dulas (10^th) and 1 at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  Several Woodcock were reported from Mynydd y Garn (8^th).  600 European Golden Plover were at the Cefni estuary (14^th), while 5 Lapwing were at Valley wetlands (10^th).

6 Black-tailed Godwit were between Cymyran and Valley cob (14^th), with 1 at Llyn Coron (11^th).  A single Bar-tailed Godwit was at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  Sightings of Greenshank included 5 at Traeth Dulas (10^th) and 1 at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  30 Redshank were at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  Counts of Curlew included 300+ at Penmon pool (9^th) and 92 at Rhoscolyn (13^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

Sightings of Great Egret included 1 at Cors Ddyga RSPB (14^th) and 1 on the Inland Sea (14^th).  The Inland Sea also held 24 Little Egrets (14^th).  4 Water Rails showed well at the west end of Cefni reservoir (14^th).

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

An Egyptian Goose was at Llyn Coron (11^th), while 4 Barnacle Geese were at Llyn Llywenan (8^th) with the same 4 or others in fields off the approach road to South Stack from Holyhead (13^th).  12 Whooper Swans were at Llyn Alaw (13^th) and the 3 Black Swans were seen again on Inland Sea (9^th).  60+ Brent Geese were at Beddmanarch Bay (14^th).

c. 300 Wigeon were at Malltraeth (14^th), with 200+ at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  25 Shoveler were at Llyn Maelog (10^th), with 20 at Malltraeth (14^th).  140 Pintail were at Malltraeth (14^th) and 12+ Teal were at Rhoscolyn (13^th).  5 Goosander were at Llyn Maelog (10^th) and several were seen on the Inland Sea (9^th).

A drake Eider flew west past Point Lynas (13^th).  150+ Common Scoter flew past Cemlyn (14^th), with up to 160 past Point Lynas (160 on 8^th, 70 on 13^th).

Raptors:

The juvenile Osprey was at the Cefni estuary (8^th).  A Red Kite was seen at Llyn Llywenan (13^th&14^th), with another at Malltraeth (14^th).  Sightings of Marsh Harriers included 1 at Llyn Coron (11^th) and up to 3 at Llyn Llywenan (3 on 13^th, 1 on 14^th).

Divers & Grebes:

A Great Northern Diver flew past Point Lynas (8^th), while 2 flew east past Point Lynas (13^th).  A Red-throated Diver was in Beddmanarch Bay (12^th) and 3 flew past Cemlyn (14^th).  There was a report of 2 Slavonian Grebes near Beaumaris pier (14^th).

2022 Year List:

There were no new additions to the 2022 year list which remains at 213.

Saturday 1st October – Friday 7th October 2022

Introduction:                                         

… windy and wet …

Seabirds & gulls:

In a week where the weather has been dominated by strong winds and rain, seabirds have led the line in respect of the scarcer sightings.  Cemlyn produced the best seawatching of the week with a Leach’s Petrel (5^th), a Sooty Shearwater (2^nd), a Balearic Shearwater (2^nd), 19 Manx Shearwaters (2^nd), 2 Arctic Skuas (2^nd) and 2 juvenile Sabine’s Gulls (6^th).  An adult Sabine’ Gull flew past Raven’s Point, Trearddur Bay (6^th).  There was a belated report of a 1^st calendar year Yellow-legged Gull at Porth Saint, Rhoscolyn (29^th), while 34 Mediterranean Gulls were at the Alaw estuary (6^th).  3 Arctic Terns flew past Cemlyn (2^nd).

Passerines and others:

A Yellow-browed Warbler was in willows around Cwm Lake at South Stack (1^st-2^nd), while a Lesser Whitethroat was at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (5^th).  Sightings of Chiffchaff included 5 around Cwm lake (1^st) and 4 at Wylfa woods (1^st), while 2 Blackcap were at Wylfa woods (1st).  A Spotted Flycatcher was at Soldiers Point, Holyhead (5^th).  2 House Martins were over Tyn Llan fields Cemlyn (1^st), with several Swallows still over Llyn Llywenan (6^th) and 1 over Porth Eilian (3^rd). 

There was a noticeable influx of Skylarks including 15 that flew west over Cemaes (1^st), 50 that were seen to come in over the sea at Cemlyn (2^nd) and 120 on the large arable field between Cemlyn and Hen Borth (2^nd).  Up to 2 Kingfishers were at the Alaw estuary (2 on 2^nd, 1 on 6^th), with 1 on the old brickworks pool, Traeth Dulas (4^th) and 1 at Holyhead Harbour (7^th).  A Hooded Crow was at Hen Borth, near Cemlyn (1^st).

Waders:

2 Little Stints were at Traeth Dulas (4^th), with a Curlew Sandpiper at Valley cob (2^nd).  A Green Sandpiper was near the clapper bridge at the Llanfachraeth end of Alaw estuary (2^nd).  10 Dunlin were at the Alaw estuary (6^th), as was a single Snipe (6^th).

200 + European Golden Plover were at Cemlyn (1^st), but there were no sightings during the week of the American Golden Plover. It could still be in the area as the European Golden Plovers were split across several groups around the Tyn Lan – Cemlyn area and it would be relatively easy for it to be overlooked.

Sightings of Grey Plover included 4 at Traeth Dulas (4^th) and 2 at Cemlyn (1^st).  Up to 2 Ruff were on the beach at Cemlyn (2 on 2^nd, 1 on 5^th).  40 Bar-tailed Godwits were at the Alaw estuary (6^th).  Up to 17 Greenshank were at the Alaw estuary (17 on 6^th, 9 at Llanfachraeth end on 2^nd), with up to 4 at Traeth Dulas (4 on 6^th, 1 on 4^th) and 1 at Valley cob (2^nd).  11 Redshank were at Traeth Dulas (6^th).

Herons, Egrets and allies:

No records of note.

Swans, Geese & Ducks:

50 Pale-bellied Brent Geese were at Beddmanarch Bay (4^th), with a single Dark-bellied Brent Goose also present (4^th).  4 Pintail were at the Alaw estuary (6^th), 7 Gadwall at Valley cob (4^th) and 168 Teal were at the Alaw estuary (6^th).

Raptors:

A juvenile Osprey – with 3^rd primary missing on 1 wing – was at Malltraeth (1^st-7^th).  A Red Kite was over Talwrn (5^th), a female Marsh Harrier at Llyn Llywenan (2^nd) and a Merlin at Cemlyn (3^rd&5^th).

Divers & Grebes:

A Black-throated Diver was seen off Cemlyn (5^th), with sightings of Red-throated Diver including 8 past Cemlyn (2^nd), 1 at Beddmanarch Bay (4^th) and 1 past North Stack (7^th).

 

2022 Year List:

Leach’s Petrel, Sooty Shearwater and Yellow-legged Gull were new for the year.  A submission to the WBRC is still awaited in respect of a Ring-billed Gull at Gorad beach on the 27^th February, so this is being taken off the 2022-year to date tally pending a submission.  There is therefore a net increase of 2 in up to 213.

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.