Fri 31st Dec 21

Things were much the same as of late this morning with the exception of a pair of Shag on the sluice rocks, one of which was colour ringed. It looks like more birds from the Isle of May, more info to follow shortly hopefully.

From the pillbox: c200 Greylags (+3 hybrids), 15 Canada Geese, 5 White-fronted Geese, c150 Teal, 15 Wigeon, 4 Mallard, 2 Shoveler, 2 Avocet on the scrape, c30 Brent (on arable), c 100 Wigeon (sitting offshore), 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel. RJ/MR

A very poor year at the Haven with the year list totalling just 176 species

 

Thurs 30th Dec 21

A short visit this morning found the 5 White-fronted Geese were still with 180+ Greylags on the scrape. 

Photo Simon Cox©

From the pillbox c200 Brent were on the arable but mobile, c200 Teal, 12 Wigeon, 3 Shelduck, 2 Avocet on the scrape, the pair of Peregrines were up on the arable, otherwise quiet. S&PC/RJ/MR

 

Wed 29th Dec 21

c900 Brent on the arable prompted the farmer to get out the fireworks again today, so things were kept on the move a bit with the flock heading offshore for a few minutes before dropping back in to feed. At last 5 White-fronted Geese were picked up by Dave Cumming as they dropped in to join the 150+ Greylags on the marsh to the right of the hide.

From the hide: 15 Canada Geese, c90 Teal, 4 Wigeon, 3 Shelduck, 3 Mallard, 1 Lt. Egret, 3 Avocet, 1 Buzzard. DC/RJ/MR.

A walk to the 3rd pillbox added, 4 Mallard and a Redshank on the flooded marsh, 7 Linnets, 2 pairs of Stonechat and a brief view of the Dartford Warbler, on the return 4 Turnstone were on the beach and a raft of Wigeon sat offshore.

 

Tues 28th Dec 21

No reports received so far:

 

 

Mon 27 Dec 21

After a couple of days inside it was nice to get out in the fresh air, c900 Brent were on the arable and c300 Lapwing and loads of gulls were on the marsh alongside the Approach Rd. Still quite a few Blackbirds and a couple of Redwing around the Badger Sett.

From the hide: 220 Greylag (plus hybrids), 8 Canada Geese, 2 Brent, c160 Teal, 8 Wigeon, 8 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, 2 Mallard, 2 Blk. T Godwits.

A walk to the 3rd pillbox was made worthwhile by 10 Sanderling with 7 Turnstone on the beach just north of French Point (Sanderling believe it or not being a Haven year tick for me), but from there it went down hill with no sign of the Dartford Warbler and at the furthest point it started to rain, it was a very wet walk back.

 

 

Sun 26th Dec 21

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

14:43 Few hours @ haven this afternoon. Clearly an arrival of thrushes with lots of Blackbirds around and a Redwing on the bluethroat trail. Single Purple Sand and 3 Turnstone on sluice. 13 Snipe and 2 Dunlin flew over, 2 Avocet on the scrape and the Greylag flock looks as though it should have some other grey geese in it anytime soon.

All The best for Christmas and the New Year

 from Holland Haven Birding

Fri 24th Dec 21

 Quite a pleasant morning for a walk, but not much change on the birding front.

c900 Brent, 300 Lapwing, 6 Red L Partridge no the arable. 7 Purple Sands on the seawall beside the sluice.

From the hide: 150+ Greylag (+hybrids), c80 Teal, 30 Wigeon, 14 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, 12 Curlew (on marsh to right), 1 Redshank, 1 Snipe, 1 Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 1 Water Rail (heard only). RJ/MR 

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

12:51 Dartford Warbler showed ridiculously well at dump clump 7 Purple Sands sluice one now with only one leg.

 

Thurs 23rd Dec 21

An increase in the Brent numbers this morning with 900-1000 on the arable on the way to site.

The Purple Sands are quite mobile at the moment, 5 were near the sluice on my way along the front, Liz had 8 mid morning and there were 9 on my return. A walk to the 3rd pillbox gave a brief view of the Dartford Warbler with 2 Stonechats before they flew out to a clump of gorse in the middle of the golf course. On the way back 6 Turnstone were on the rock opposite the wooden hide and a pair of Stonechat were near the first pillbox.

Reports from today:

Liz Huxley

11:42 8 Purple Sands by sluice.

 

Wed 22nd Dec 21

Dropped in for an hour on the way to the shops lunchtime and all much the same. C800-1000 Brent on the arable with c600 Starling and 250 Lapwing.

From the hide: c200 Greylags (+ Hybrids), c100 Teal, 30 Wigeon, 12 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, 2 Gadwall, 3 Cormorants, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel.

 

 

Tues 21st Dec 21

Overcast skies and a light onshore wind made for a chilly but dry wander this morning, c600 Brent were up on the arable on the way in and 1 single Purple Sandpiper on the sluice (6 seen earlier PRD). Offshore 42 Wigeon were sitting on the sea, as were 3 R T Divers and a further 6 RTD's headed south. One Barnacle Goose headed north.

From the hide: 200+ Greylag, 1 Mute Swan, c80 Teal, 12 Wigeon, 7 Shoveler, 4 Shelduck, 30 Lapwing, 2 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel.

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

15:29 8 Purple Sands sluice, 600+ Brent's arable and a fieldfare in the carpark

 

Mon 20th Dec 21

A quick stop in the lay-by this afternoon gave a count of c600 Brent, 250 Greylags (+3 Hybrids), 8 Canada Geese all on the arable.

Reports from today:

Liz Huxley

12:29 13 White Fronts in off and over scrape

13:02 Also 5 Purple Sands on sluice, Dartford Warbler by golf course dump, Rock Pipit, Red-throated Diver S, 250+ Brents on arable, 200+ Lapwing.

 

Sun 19th Dec 21

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

15:04 Drake Goosander close N past Golf course dump.

 

Sat 18th Dec 21

Another damp and misty morning and very quiet on the birding front, c250 Brent were on the arable + c100 Lapwing.

From the hide: Just 12 Greylags + the 2 hybrids behind the scrape, 120 Teal, 30 Wigeon, 7 Shoveler, 6 Mallard, 1 Shelduck, 20 Lapwing, 2 Buzzard, also 1 Water Rail & 1 Cetti's Warbler (heard only). MR et al.

2 Purple Sands were on the sluice and a Kestrel on the LPA pylon.

 

Fri 17th Dec 21

Big changes today in the weather and the Brent Geese otherwise much the same. Weather cold misty and wet, Brent Geese 16 on the arable.

From the hide: 100+ Greylags (+ hybrids), c200 Teal, 30 Wigeon, 11 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, c230 Lapwing, 2 BlkWits, 2 Snipe, 1 Buzzard. DC/RJ/MR.

6 Purple Sands and a Ringed Plover were on the sluice DC/RJ.

 

Thurs 16th Dec 21

A really nice morning at the Haven today, with the sky full of calling Brent Geese, coming in from the north and moving between the arable and the sea, at one time c900 were sitting close off the beach just north of the sluice, including 1 Pale-bellied Brent. SC/MR.

8 Canada Geese were also drifting around close offshore but keeping away from the Brent, a raft of c80 Wigeon were off the raised tee and 6 Cormorants and 5 R T Divers were fishing further out and a Grey Heron headed south. No sign of the Purple Sands today.

From the pillbox: c100 Greylag, 240 Teal, 22 Shoveler, 10 Wigeon, 3 Shelduck, 6 Mallard, 1 Grey Heron on the scrape, c100 Lapwing on the arable, plus 1 Sparrowhawk and 1 Kestrel over the marsh.

Photo Simon Cox©

Reports from today:

Simon Cox

11:38 Dartford Warbler still present where previously described

 

Wed 15th Dec 21

Around a 1000 Brent were feeding on the arable beside the chippings lay-by again this morning and making regular trips to the sea around the sluice for a wash. c80 Wigeon were offshore and 7 Purple Sandpipers were along the front seen by RJ.

From the hide: 80+ Greylags (+2 hybrids), c200 Teal, 20 Wigeon, 15 Shoveler, 1 Shelduck, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Redshank, 1 Stonechat, 1 Kestrel, 1 Sparrowhawk. RJ/MR.

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

13:23 7 Purple Sands this morning 3 R T Divers on sea, pair of stonechat, no sign of Dartford by me but seen by others also Pale-bellied Brent with 1000+ Brent's from layby with gate.

 

Tues 14th Dec 21

Around 800 Brent were on the fields to the west of the B1032 near the chippings lay-by this morning before moving to sit on the sea off the sluice, a single Turnstone was on the sluice rocks. MR

As the wind had dropped considerably today I decided to walk to the Frinton end of site and have a look for the Dartford Warbler, I was joined at the sluice by Peter Newton and we had a very uneventful walk to the 3rd pilldox. After a few minutes 2 pairs of Stonechat were seen on the brambles around the golf tee and the bench on the golf course shortly followed by the Dartford Warbler. All 5 birds plus a Reed Bunting, Meadow Pipit and a few Blue Tits were busy in the same area for the next 30 mins giving some great views. PNt/MR.

Things on the scrape were much the same with the addition of a Snipe and 7 Purple Sands were along the front first thing PRD/BH

 

Mon 13th Dec 21

Quite a nice morning with a very chilly breeze, Brent this morning numbered c1000, first on the arable then split up with c200 dropping onto the scrape and the remainder sitting on the sea offshore with 100+ Wigeon. 9 Purple Sands were on the sluice rocks. MR

From the hide: 100+ Greylag (+2 hybrids), c250 Teal, 24 Wigeon, 20 Shoveler, 1 Shelduck, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Buzzard, 2 Peregrine, 1 Water Rail (heard only). DC/MR

No sign of yesterday's Shag from the Haven today (seen off Frinton PBr), but info received back on the colour ringed bird showed it was another from the Isle of May (see Colour Ring Obs. page). Three Isle of May colour ringed birds on 7th Dec 2009, 10 Dec 2020 & 12 Dec 2021, Amassing!!

 

 

Sun 12th Dec 21

A good morning at the Haven this morning with Pete Loud managing to pick up the Dartford Warbler and a group of 8 Shag first seen offshore north of French Point then a bit later on the sluice rock where one was found to be colour ringed. PL/RJ/MR.

Photo Pete Loud©

Photo Pete Loud©

Another increase in Brent numbers with c600 on the arable this morning, 1 Purple Sand and 2 Turnstone on the sluice rocks, and 8 Canada Geese were sitting on the sea close offshore. 

From the pillbox: 160 Greylags (incl. 2 hybrids), 260 Teal, c26 Wigeon, 9 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, 1 Grey Heron on the scrape, 2 Peregrine, 1 Buzzard. MR

Having met up with PL & RJ the 8 Shag were found on the sluice rocks, one sporting a nice colour ring so hopefully we will be able to find a life history in the near future.

  Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

11:00 4 Shag off raised tee + Dartford Warbler.

11:22 Now 8 Shag together north French point.

 

Sat 11th Dec 21

Another short visit today found c 400 Brent & c100 Lapwing on the arable from the lay-by.

A pair of Stonechat were on the mounds, a large raft of Teal & Wigeon + 1 Shelduck were sitting on the sea off the sluice, 4 Turnstone were on the sluice rocks with 2 Cormorants and a number of mixed Gulls.

Over the marsh from the pillbox were c100 Greylag (incl. 2 hybrids), 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard and on the scrape were c250 Teal, 10 Wigeon, 6 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck. MR

Reports from today:

Liz Huxley

11:31 Dartford Warbler with Stonechat pair at start of footpath across golf course.

 

Fri 10th Dec 21

A very chilly wind this morning but still very quiet, the Brent numbers had gone up to 250+ on the arable and Teal to 230+ on the scrape along with 15 Wigeon, 9 Shoveler, 4 Shelduck.  C100 Greylag, a few Lapwing and 1 Lt. Egret on the surrounding marsh. Just 1 Purple Sand and 1 Turnstone on the front and 1 Peregrine on the arable first thing. DC/RJ/MR.

 

 

Thurs 9th Dec 21

Quite nice out today but very quiet, 68 Brent were on the arable, c100 Greylag on the marsh south of the scrape with 80+ Lapwing. On the scrape were 80+ Teal, 10 Wigeon, 3 Shelduck, 1 Shoveler, 1 BlkWit, 1 Lt. Egret and 1 Water Rail (heard only). 3 Purple Sandpipers were on the seawall near the sluice on the way home. MR

 

Wed 8th Dec 21

Another very windy morning along the front and the sea was breaking over the seawall down towards Frinton long before high tide, 7 Purple Sandpipers were seen 5 on the seawall by the sluice and 2 on the rocks near French Point + 3 Turnstone.

From the pillbox: 54 Brent (on the arable), c100 Greylags (on marsh behind sewage works), 1 Peregrine.

On the scrape: c100 Teal, 54 Wigeon, 2 Shelduck, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Snipe.

From the approach road: 1 Lt Egret (on marsh to north), 1 Jay. MR

 

 

Tues 7th Dec 21

A very wet & windy day.

No reports received so far:

 

Mon 6th Dec 21

This afternoon 20 Brent, c250 Lapwing & c400 Starling were on the arable seen from the lay-by before the farmer arrived with his fireworks again.

From the hide: 100+ Greylag, 8 Canada Geese, 80+ Teal, 30 Wigeon, 12 Mallard, 12 Shoveler, 1 Shelduck.

On the seawall by the sluice on the way home were 11 Purple Sandpipers, 3 Ringed Plover and a Turnstone MR.

 

Sun 5th Dec 21

250 Greylags, 1 Canada Goose & 1 Brent were on the arable from the B1032 this morning + 1 Stonechat on the mounds, 9 Purple Sands and 1 Turnstone on the seawall

From the hide: 120 Teal, c40 Wigeon, 4 Mallard, 4 Shoveler, 2 Shelduck on the scrape and 1 Peregrine (on the arable first thing RJ), 1 Kestrel RJ/MR

 

Sat 4th Dec 21

Another short walk late morning in the winter sunshine, on route to the hide, a pair of Stonechats were on the mounds, 8 Canada Geese were sitting on the sea just north of the sluice, lots of gulls offshore and 3 R T Divers headed north.

From the Hide: 200+ Greylags, 9 Brent (on arable), 60 Teal, 30 Wigeon, 6 Shoveler, 4 Shelduck, c200 Lapwing, 1 BlkWit, 1 Grey Heron. MR

On the return 12 Purple Sandpipers & 2 Turnstone were on the seawall and a Shag was paddling around close offshore before heading off south S&PC/ MR.

Photo Simon Cox©

 

Fri 3rd Dec 21

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

14:33 Dartford Warbler still in reeds and bramble behind pillbox south of raised tee also 12  Purps at sluice.

 

Thurs 2nd Dec 21

I had a short but pleasant walk to the sluice late morning, only the second time in the last two weeks I've been out, been trying to shake off this cough and cold bug that seems to be everywhere at the moment. The 12 Purple Sandpipers were still on the seawall showing ridiculously well just north of the sluice, also noted were half a dozen Turnstone and lots of Gulls and 5 Com. Scoter (n), but it was cold, hopefully last a bit longer in the morning 🤞. RJ/MR

  

 

Wed 1st Dec 21

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

11:27 Scrape 89 Teal, 65 Wigeon, 12 Shoveler, 1 Blackwit. Sluice 12 Purps,  Rock Pipit,  4+ Stonechat along seawall.

11:53 Sanderling on sluice.

 

Tues 30th Nov 21

No reports received so far:

At the end of November the number of species recorded at the Haven this year stands at 175.

 

Mon 29th Nov 21

No reports received so far:

 

Sun 28th Nov 21

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

09:42 11 Purple Sands sluice.

Matt Turner

15:18 R T Diver feeding on edge of shore by boat club. PM Green Sand on scrape and Peregrine on arable with 2 Peregrine (Maybe same bird) seen over sluice later where there were still 5 Purple Sandpipers. Other than that 10 Brent at sea, v distant skua sp. south and lots of Cormorants.

 

Sat 27th Nov 21

Reports from today:

Richard Jeffree

10:56 Now 8 Purple Sands on sluice, 31 Wigeon on sea, 2nd w Med Gull, Green Woodpecker along seawall, very quiet.

 

Fri 26th Nov 21

No reports received so far:

 

Thurs 25th Nov 21

No reports received so far:

 

Wed 24th Nov 21

Reports from today:

Liz Huxley

13:53 This morning's highlights: 4+ RT Diver, Rock Pipit, 2 Stonechat, 4 Blackwit on scrape, 7 Purple Sands on sluice, Med Gull N.

 

Tues 23rd Nov 21

Reports from today:

Steve Grimwade

08:55 16 R T Diver south from Haven and almost certainly the Puffin north but light atrocious.

10:05 G N Diver, 2 Razorbill and 11 R T Diver from raised tee.

11:19  7 Purple Sands on sluice.

Mon 22nd Nov 21

Reports from today: 

Dave Cummings

09:38 S E Owl in/off from shelter.

10:41 Woodcock flushed from reeds just before boardwalk.

Simon Cox

11:37 0800-0900 Gannet 8, GND 1 N, R-t Diver c10, Razorbill 1, C Scoter 3,  Brent 15. Scrape Teal 74, Shoveler 27, Shelduck 5, Lapwing 80, Blackwit 3, Curlew 1, Common Gull 13 (+1 at sea), Starling 150+

 

Sun 21st Nov 21

Reports from today:

Pete Loud

13:50 Very chilly in the north wind this morning. On the sea, 4 Red throated Divers, 3 Guillemot, 1 Gannet and 3 Med Gull. Purple Sand and 4 Turnstone on the Sluice. 29 Shoveler on the Scrape with 35 Wigeon and 60 Teal. An adult pair of Peregrine were giving the local Pigeons plenty of exercise over the arable, Pair of Stonechat on the marsh, goes without saying no sigh of both Dartford or Red necked Grebe.

 

Sat 20th Nov 21

Reports from today:

Max Martin

09:28 All from Raised Tee- R N Grebe still present, 1 Razorbill, 1 Guillemot, few Gannets, 7+ R T Divers

09:31 Dartford Warbler present on right side of bridge in reeds, popped up calling and has now gone back into reeds.

09:52 Bird has now moved to left hand side of bridge following a male and female Stonechat.

12:33 Close Razorbill off Shelter.

Paul Brayshaw

11:34 G N Diver (presumed earlier Frinton bird) now off the raised tee with a Gt C Grebe, Guille and several Red Throats. Also two Med Gull.

 

Fri 19th Nov 21

Another late Swallow this morning this time sitting on the wires and hawking over the Dell.

Around 8 Red T Divers were sitting on the sea with lots of gulls viewed from the sluice area, and 6 Purple Sands and 9 Turnstone were on the sluice.

From the hide: c100 Greylag (on the marsh to the south), 48 Teal, 26 Shoveler, 12 Wigeon, 4 Shelduck, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 2 Peregrine (up on the arable), 2 Stonechats. RJ/DC/MR.

RJ & DC had a walk to the Raised Tee and found that the Red-necked Grebe was still offshore at that end of the site around midday.

 

 

Thurs 18th Nov 21

The day started well with a very late Swallow that flew across the greensward and headed out toward Gt. Holland and a flock of c30 Siskins in off and headed inland.

On the sluice were 6 Purple Sands and 8 Turnstone with lots of gulls. and offshore just a couple of Guillemots.

On the Scrape: 1 Mute Swan (on the arable), c150 Greylag, 67 Teal, 29 Shoveler, 15 Wigeon, 5 Shelduck, 2 BlkWits, 1 Common Gull, 1 Lt. Egret, 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 13 R L Partridge (on arable). RJ/MR

A walk to the Raised Tee found that the R N Grebe was still offshore from that point as were 3 R T Divers and 2 Razorbills, also note on the way were 4+ Stonechat, a few Mipit's, Pied Wags and a Fieldfare on the golf course, the Purple Sands and Turnstone were by then on the rocks south of French point. PRD/RJ/MR

 

Wed 17th Nov 21

Not quite as busy offshore this morning but still a good selection of birds. The Red-necked Grebe was around all morning but spent a lot of time underwater and moving around a lot more, the juv. Gannet was seen first thing and Guillemot, Razorbill, Gt. N Diver and Red T Diver were also sitting on the sea. 7 Common Scoter headed north

On the scrape: c200 Greylag (on marsh to right of hide), 84 Wigeon, 58 Teal, 25 Shoveler, 8 Shelduck, c70 Lapwing, 7 BlkWits, 1 Water Rail (heard only), 1 Buzzard, 2 Sparrowhawk, 1 Peregrine (on arable). PRD/RJ/JG/S&PC/MR

Reports from today:

Simon Cox

08:53 Red N Grebe on sea 100 yds S of sluice.

John Grant

12:33 Red-necked Grebe currently north of raised tee, off Frinton beach huts. Also Woodcock in-off landed on edge of golf course. Great Northern Diver south off raised tee and 4 Red-throated Diver on sea off raised tee. Seven Corn Buntings in fields west of golf course.

 

Tues 16th Nov 21

Another magic morning offshore, with a flat calm sea and lots of birds. Bird of the day was a Red-necked Grebe which spent the whole morning between the sailing club and the sluice not too far offshore, closely followed by a Juv Gannet that was sitting among a raft of gulls until a shoal of fish arrived on the tide, then it was plunge diving through the frenzied gulls. A supporting cast of 10+ R T Divers, 8+ Guillemot, 4+ Razorbills, 1 G C Grebe a few adult Gannet & Cormorant plus 5 Purple Sand and 9 Turnstone on the sluice rocks and a Woodcock (in off) made for a good morning.  PRD/DW/MR.

On the Scrape: c100 Greylag, c60 Teal, c40 Wigeon, 20 Shoveler, 5 Shelduck, 25 Lapwing, 6 Snipe, 5 BlkWits, 1 Buzzard, 1 Peregrine (on arable). DW/MR

 

Mon 15th Nov 21

Another good day offshore with 30+ Gannets still in the area waiting for the fish to show up, then plunge diving amongst the gulls, also noted 15+ R T Divers, 4 Guillemot, 3 Razorbill, 1 Gt. C Grebe & a possible R N Grebe drifted north on the tide. 1 Med Gull, 15 Shelduck & 9 Brent headed south, 4 Common Scoter headed north.

6 Purple Sands & 3 Turnstone were on the sluice with a large mixed gull flock.

On the scrape: 2 Mute Swans, c250 Greylag, 3 hybrids, c60 Teal, 20 Wigeon, 15 Shoveler, 5 Shelduck, 90 Lapwing, 4 BlkWits, 1 Water Rail, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard. DC/MR 

 

Sun 14th Nov 21

Although the hopes of a bumper seawatch were dashed by no change in the wind direction, it was obvious that the sprat shoals were still around and watching at least 30 Gannets fishing close offshore during most of the morning was brilliant. Also noted were 26 Brent (s), 10 R T Divers (4s-3n-3 sitting on the sea), 1 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill, 6 Cormorants, 2 Med Gulls. Plus 6 Purple Sands were on the sluice rocks PL/ML/RJ/MR

On the scrape: c250 Greylags, 14 Brent (incl 9 juvs), 3 hybrids, 2 Canada Geese, 1 Mute Swan, c50 Teal, 13 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Buzzard, 1 Stonechat RJ/MR.

Reports from today:

Pete Loud

 11:25 2 Fieldfare in the car park bushes early were a haven year tick for me. Great to watch Gannets feeding close offshore, probably at least 30 birds. couple of Red-throats,1 Red breasted Merganser, Guillemot & Med Gull also. Pair of Stonechat in the moth enclosure and another pair on the Golf Course. 2 Curlew flew over, 6 Purples and 4 Turnstone on the Sluice. 3 Blackwit, 8 Shoveler and a few wigeon and Teal on the Scrape.

 

Sat 13th Nov 21

Lots of Blackbirds and a few Redwing around the bushes this morning ML/RJ. and the six Purple Sands were again around the sluice area, exactly where dependant on the state of the tide.

On the scrape were: 2 Mute Swans, 270 Greylag, 23 Brent Geese, 2 Canada Geese, 3 hybrids, 62 Wigeon, 58 Teal, 11 Mallard, 11 Shoveler, 5 Shelduck, 3 BlkWits, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard, 1 Peregrine (on arable). RJ/MR.

A walk to the 3rd pillbox added 4 Stonechat, 1 Curlew, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Pied Wag, 1 Woodcock (ML) and offshore a few Gannets were still hanging around feeding and several Brent were on the move. RJ/ML/MR.

  

 

Fri 12th Nov 21

Another quiet day with a strengthening wind and some light rain, I joined ML/RJ/DC for the last few minutes of their seawatch, too late for the Bonxies but I did have c10 Gannets, 8 Com. Scoter, 2 Med Gulls, 2 R T Diver (sitting on the sea) & a Peregrine (in off).

5+ Purple Sands and some Turnstones were on the sluice rocks as usual.

On the scrape: c150 Greylag, 3 Hybrids, 9 Canada Geese, c50 Wigeon, c30 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 5 Shelduck, 3 BlkWits, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel. DW/DC/RJ/ML/MR.

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

08:31  3 Bonxie south since c07:50 from shelter, also decent numbers of Gannet.

Thurs 11th Nov 21

Another quiet day today still lots of Blackbirds and a few Song Thrushes but otherwise just the norm.

5 Purple Sands were around the sluice area with half a dozen Turnstone.

On the scrape: c200 Greylag, 4 Canada Geese, 3 hybrids, 1 Brent Goose, 55 Wigeon, 30 Teal, 13 Shoveler, 5 Shelduck, 10 Lapwing, 4 BlkWits, 1 Snipe, 1 Curlew, 2 Lt. Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Buzzard, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Kestrel. RJ/MR

 

Wed 10th Nov 21

Just a quick visit to the scrape for me today and not much change. 227 Greylag, 3 hybrids, 42 Wigeon, c30 Teal, 11 Shoveler, 5 Shelduck, 3 BlkWits, 130 Blk. H Gulls, 32 Herring Gulls, 4 Common Gulls, (+ loads more up on the arable behind the plough), 1 Grey Heron.

On the sluice rocks were 6 Purple Sands and 8 Turnstone.

 

Tues 9th Nov 21

After a late start this morning I was joined by Matt for a very uneventful walk to the 3rd pillbox, apart from a late Swallow heading south just 2 pairs of Stonechat and a few Mipit's were noted. As we started back along the top of the seawall a sharp eyed Paul Barnett (out for a bike ride) drew our attention to a small long tailed bird that had just dropped into a minute bramble bush just below the seawall and after a few minutes out popped the Dartford Warbler, thanks Paul. After 3 brief stops flying along the reedbed it was lost to view and couldn't be relocated in the next hour.

Things were quiet on the scrape although the Green Sandpiper did show itself, along with a few Greylag, 4 Canada Geese, 3 hybrids, Wigeon, Teal, Shoveler & Shelduck, 3 Mute Swans were on the arable, c20 Brent on the fields behind the golf course and on the seawall beside the sluice were 8 Turnstone and 5 Purple Sandpipers.

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

10:40 Swallow south.

11:32 Dartford Warbler still by Golf course dump in reeds.

17:25 Haven this morning- Dartford Warbler still (Gc dump) and 5+ Stonechat around site. In bushes c50 Blackbirds, 15+ Redwing, Song Thrush and a Fieldfare, 2 Goldcrest, Chiffchaff, 5 Redpoll. Siskins and other finches continue to go over throughout the morning, a Swallow South poss. the last of the autumn and a Golden Plover. Green Sand, 4 Canada geese on the scrape, 5 Purps and 8 Turnstone on seawall next to sluice. 

Naze late afternoon-  No sign of Shorelark or Snow Buntings on stone point but 3 SEO and a Merlin.

 

Mon 8th Nov 21

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

12:07 G N Diver now close offshore opposite Gc dump heading in Holland direction. G C Grebe N also.

12:21 Dartford Warbler in reeds along brook at start of boardwalk.

14:41 Haven this morning and early afternoon. Dartford Warbler still (presumably same bird, flew from bramble into reeds along brook just before the start of the boardwalk but no further sign). G N Diver and 5+ R T Divers offshore. 10+ Scoter N, 19 south and a G C Grebe N on sea. A group of 60+ Starling, Snipe and a SEO in off (Pc). Lots of continental Blackbirds still, with Redwings and Song Thrush in bushes. Green Sand, Lt Egret on scrape. 4 Brambling over (2 PRD), few groups of Siskins and the Bearded Tit in the reedbed complete the visit.

14:42 Also 3 Purple Sands still at French point.

Sun 7th Nov 21

Reports from today:

 Paul Brayshaw

08:32 Much quieter today.  Haven totals of note from seawall alongside gc - offshore two Razorbill, 4 Gannet south, total of 12 Rock Pipit included a very flighty group of 8 on the rocks, Golden Plover south over gc plus light Goldfinch and Siskin passage.  Stonechat at the extreme north of the recording area.

Pete Loud

13:57 Very little to report this morning. 3 Purple Sands, 1 Rock Pipit and a Stonechat along the front. Solitary Curlew on the marsh, pair of Shoveler on the Scrape with a few Teal and about 40 Blackbirds and 4 Redwing along the back hedge behind the Golf course.

Simon Cox

15:56 60 Wigeon & 7 Shoveler on pool across road from bridge

 

Sat 6th Nov 21

Unfortunately no sign of the Dartford Warbler this morning after lots of searching, a walk to the raised tee gave just 1 Razorbill off the sluice,  6 Purple Sand on the rocks between the 3rd pillbox and the raised tee, 1 Stonechat, 1 Rock Pipit, a few Mipit's and a cracking male Eider heading south on the walk back.PL/ML/DC/MR

On the scrape and marsh: 12 Mute Swans (4 on arable-8 fly over 2ad 6 juvs),c200 Greylag, 2 Canada Geese, 6 Brent, 3 hybrid Geese, Wigeon, Teal, 5 Shelduck, 3 Shoveler DC/MR 1 Green Sand PL.

Reports from today:

Paul Brayshaw

07:18 Lapland Bunting south over raised tee with two Mipits.

07:20 Snow Bunting currently on the beach north of raised tee. Reasonable Pigeon movement and a few finches plus another Blackbird influx.

07:48 Other haven area bits included Peregrine in off, Little Egret and Guillemot north, 8 Brambling south plus Siskin etc.

Matt Lonsdale

10:30 Cracking Razorbill close off sluice.

10:38 2nd Razorbill now, little more distant. Also 2 Goldcrest in bushes earlier, single Brambling. Still lots of Blackbirds (although less than yesterday) but more Redwing.

11:03 G N Diver just came in from south and landed offshore. Viewable from sluice but to north of me.

Dave Cummings

11:11 G N Diver just moved off south from sluice. Guillemot on sea from shelter earlier.

 

Fri 5th Nov 21

A better day today with a light breeze and sunshine, and a few good birds as well with another Snow Bunting, a few Woodcock and bird of the day a cracking Dartford Warbler found by Max Martin near the golf course dump. I do hope it's there tomorrow. 

Reports from today:

Mick Grover

09:31 Woodcock, just before the hide.

Dave Cummings

11:47 Snow Bunting by raised tee.

Matt Lonsdale

12:49 Snow Bunting still on seawall next to gate at raised tee.

17:31 Haven today- 07:10-14:00 then 15:00-16:30. Brilliant day. Dartford warbler (male, on bluethroat trail), Lap Bunting (over), Snow Bunting (raised tee), 3 Fieldfare, c10 Redwing, c50 Blackbirds, c5 Song Thrush, 4+ Buzzards, 200+ Starling, 2 Woodcock, 6 Brambling (5 over, 1 approach road). 

07:10-09:40 Vismig- Lap Bunt over @ 7:50 calling, 5 Brambling (4 in/off), Greenfinch, Fieldfare, Grey Wag. loads of Siskins on the move but too high and trickle of other usual bits. 

Seawatch- south unless stated, same time. Little Gull, 227 Brent (150N, 57s), 19 Wigeon, 2 Mallard, 4+ Teal, 3 Oyk, 6 Scoter N, 2 Guillemot (N), 9 Shelduck N, 2 Pintail, 3 Gannet.

Max Martin

14:39 Just had cracking views of Dartford Warbler in bramble bush opposite GC dump.

14:44 Bird flew towards me and  perched on top of the bush before entering it and has not called since, possibly moving south and using bushes for cover 🤷‍♂️

16:09 Dartford still present along Bluethroat trail just before GC dump.

 

Thurs 4th Nov 21

2 Purple Sands on the Boating Club rocks this morning and it was another very high tide, a seawatch was taking place from the shelter so hopefully a report will follow.

On the scrape & marsh: 4 Mute Swans, c40 Greylag, 1 Brent Goose, c60 Teal, c60 Wigeon, 11 Shoveler, 2 Shelduck, 1 Lt. Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard. PRD/MR.  

Reports from today:

Laurence Drumond

14:36 Sea-watch from the shelter 07.00-12.30, Small mixed flocks of Wigeon and Teal all South, odd Pintail, 30+ Common Scoter, most north,3 R B Merg ,close south, 4 R T Diver, constant presence of mostly adult Gannet all morning, to much churn to count, all north,1 Ring Plover, 3 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 1 poss Purple Sand, 2 Bonxie north, at least 6 Kittiwake, 3 Med Gull, 3 Guillemot,1 Razorbill (Matt L ), a handful of Blackbirds in off, along with a single Redwing, many flocks of Starling (some 100+), and 34 Lapwing in off, Siskins heard overhead. 

Matt Lonsdale

16:31 Continued seawatch till 13:15 then back again 14:00-16:00. 

In addition 3 Pale-bellied Brent Geese N, 4 Eider N, lots more Brent Geese (few hundred), and Gannet. Few more R T Divers also and a single Shoveler. 100s of Starlings continued in/off making it at least a few thousand for the day. 50+ Lapwing in addition this afternoon, 2 Tree Sparrow, Brambling, few Blackbirds, Mipits and a Redwing all in/off. Walk to Frinton late morning produced just 2 Rock Pipit and a Stonechat.

 

Wed 3rd Nov 21

A good start this morning with 3 Purple Sandpipers on the sluice before the tide pushed them off. DW/RJ/ML/MR

 Then had a walk to the raised tee with Matt & RJ, the only things of note were a single R T Diver sitting on the sea, 4 Stonechat, 1 Mipit and a steady stream of Starlings coming in off the sea.

On the scrape and marsh: 4 Mute Swans (arable), c200 Greylag, 1 Canada Goose, 95 Wigeon, 67 Teal, 8 Shoveler, 1 Shelduck, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 1 Cetti's Warbler (heard only), DW/RJ/ML/MR.

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

 Slower again today. 

16:26 This morning c08:00-11:30. Nearly 1000 Starling, 35 Lapwing and a couple of blackbirds in/off. Quite walk to raised tee produced 4 Stonechat and scrape quiet as well as bushes. Few cont. Blackbirds and Song Thrush. 1 R T Diver offshore.

16:28 Better this afternoon - Walk from farm around Gc edges and back. Lots more thrushes with first Fieldfare of autumn, 35+ continental Blackbirds, 20+ Redwing and c5 Song Thrush. Single Chiff and few Gannets offshore. Distinct lack of Skylarks in fields.

Photo Matt Lonsdale©

 

Tues 2nd Nov 21

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

08:15 Great start to morning vismig - first hour produced Swallow, 700 Woodies, 108 Chaffinch, 72 Goldies, 2 Redpoll, 10 Brambling, 25 Siskin, 3 Rock Pipit, 4 Alba Wags + other bits. Counting difficult also Lt. Egret and 14 Snipe on scrape. Chiff on mounds.

09:20 Snow Bunting in/off then flying round calling between pillbox and French point. Haven’t seen if it’s landed + House Martin through.

09:30 2 Snow Bunting on seawall N of 2nd pillbox.

Photo Matt Lonsdale©

12:39: Excellent morning up to 11:45 at haven. Vismig difficult but 700+ Woodpigeon, 116 Chaffinch, 92 Goldfinch, 12 Redpoll, 15 Brambling, 35+ Siskin (many going over too high), 72 Linnet, 42 Mipit, 25+ Skylark (same as siskin), 3 Rock Pipit, 5 Alba Wags, 5 Reed Bunt, Sparrowhawk all south. Lt Egret and 3 House Sparrow N, Snow Bunting in/off later joined another on seawall and single late House Martin and Swallow. 

14+ Snipe, Green Sand and Lt Egret on scrape. Peregrine on arable, 2 Chiffchaff in bushes. 3+ Purple Sand (3 sluice, 2 French point prob. same), 5 Turnstone, 2 Guillemot and 2 R T Diver offshore.

 

Mon 1st Nov 21

Still windy but dry today, Matt had a few bits moving through the site early on including a Tree Sparrow but by the time I got over it was very slow, offshore a lot of Cormorant were on the move and a few Gannet still hanging around, 2 R T Diver headed north.

On the scrape were 220 Greylag, a large number of Teal & Wigeon, 9 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, 1 Turnstone (in for a wash over high tide), a large mixed gull flock, 1 Kestrel, 1 Sparrowhawk. 4 Mute Swans and 2 Buzzard were up on the arable.

On the return things were much the same offshore and 4 Turnstone were on the seawall beside the sluice. PNt/DW/TS/MR.

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

Vismig- 07:40-08:50. 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Brambling, 1 Redpoll, 56 Goldfinch, 13 Chaffinch, 54 Linnet, 17 Mipit, 5 Siskin, 20 Skylark, 2 Greenfinch, 4 Reed Bunt. 2 Lesser Redpoll also on track between sewage farm and ringing compound.

 

Sun 31st Oct 21

Very wet and windy this morning so I didn't venture out.

No reports received so far:

At the end of October the number of species recorded at the Haven this year stands at 172.

 

Sat 30th Oct 21

Reports from today:

Simon Cox

3 close Velvet Scoter south 07-57 

Additional birds 0730-1000 Gannet c55 (many mid-range adults much enjoyed), 7 Red T Divers, 2 Med Gulls, 20+ GBBGs, 14 Brents, 1 Oystercatcher

Matt Lonsdale

10:18 Pomarine Skua (2cy) offshore but not seen for a while. 3 Velvet Scoter S earlier (don’t think S C's message sent).

11:52 Ad Y L Gull raised platform.

Paul Brayshaw

13:48 Two Snow Bunting just flown south along the tideline passed the northern pill box. Appeared to continue passed French point.

14:10 Other bits from haven area golf course seawall and beach - 4+ Gannet offshore throughout, 2 Rock Pipit, two groups of Siskin heard south.

Richard Jeffree

14:18 Shag and G N Diver also from the shelter late am, juv Marsh Harrier from hide also 4 Purple Sands from sluice rocks.

Fri 29th Oct 21

Lots of Gannet feeding offshore again this morning plus a Guillemot and a R T Diver close in sitting on the sea. 3 R T Diver, headed north and 1 Shelduck, 1 Curlew, 15 Knot, 30+ Cormorant and 21 Brent headed south. 4 Purple Sandpipers and a few Turnstone were on the sluice rocks.

On the scrape: 140 Greylag, Teal & Wigeon, 14 Shoveler, 3 Shelduck, Blk. Headed & Herring Gulls, 2 Med Gulls, 3 Common Gulls, 2 GBB & 1 LBB Gull.

4 Mute Swans and a Peregrine were up on the arable. RJ/DC/MR

 

Thurs 28th Oct 21

Looks like there are still some sprats around offshore, as a few Gannets were hanging around offshore and a G N Diver was fishing quite close in. On the sluice rocks with the gulls were 4 Purple Sandpipers and 5 Turnstone.

On the scrape: 4 Mute Swans, 30+ Greylag, lots of Teal & Wigeon (groups of which kept flying out and sitting on the sea), 10+ Shoveler, 7 Shelduck, 6 Cormorant, 1 Green Sand (RJ). RJ/DW/MR.

 

Wed 27th Oct 21

No reports received so far:

 

Tues 26th Oct 21

I spent morning working my way from the main road through to the hide, 1 Blk. T Godwit was on the flooded marsh north of the approach road with lots of gulls, 20+ Blackbirds and 2 Song Thrushes were noted through to the carpark bushes, 2 Cetti's Warbler (1 Dipping Pond-1 Raised Platform), a Blackcap and a Garden Warbler in the bramble below the Orchard. c70 Lapwing were on the scrape below the Raised Platform.

The sluice rocks held 2 Purple Sands, 7 Turnstone, 1 Med Gull, Herring & Blk. H Gulls.

On the scrape: 4 Mute Swans, 194 Greylag, 140 Teal, 70 Wigeon, 11 Shoveler, 2 Shelduck, 9 Snipe, 1 Green Sandpiper, 60 Blk. H Gulls, 10+ Herring Gulls, 1 Med Gull (metal ring on right leg), 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard.

A sea-watch after a bacon roll added: 37 Brent (s), 6 Cormorant (s), 9 Gannet (3n 2s +4) the 4 Gannet were hanging around and on a couple of occasions found a shoal of fish and were plunge diving. 1 Guillemot sitting on the sea

Reports from today:

Matt Lonsdale

19:05 Apologies for late report. Frustrating morning @haven till c10am. Prob. Woodlark @09:18 (flew over me at French point heading SW along moth enclosure hedge , called once but only got on it as it was going away😩. Just not quite good enough seeing as it would have been a first for me @ haven..)

Anyway other bits included 8 Redpoll, 2 Siskin and a decent passage of Linnet, Goldfinch and Chaffinch). Increase in Cormorants offshore with 10+ Gannet + a couple of R T Diver and Med Gull from glances to sea. Grey Wag over sewage farm, Blackwit on scrape and 4+ Stonechat was a slight increase.

Peter Newton

15:41 15.00-15.35. 4 Gannets , 2 Med Gulls , 2 Snipe, 1 Red throated diver