7th April 2017

After what has felt like an overlong wait for the first Willow Warbler of the year, one was trapped and ringed at the Harholt Plantation this morning, bringing the year list to 72 species. In fact, only three of the previous seven years logged an earlier arrival so we've actually done alright this year. Perhaps this sluggish occupation of territory is an indication that the habitat on offer is past its peak. A Blackcap was also ringed and four Chiffchaffs noted at Harholt, where a disagreement between five Jays provided an interesting behavioural observation.

The farm had two of both Chiffchaff and Blackcap.

Butterflies across the patch included two Orange-tips, a Comma, six Small Tortoiseshells and a Peacock.

Willow Warbler, a short-winged, presumably ♀, bird
♂ Blackcap
2cy Coal Tit
Long-tailed Tit

Paul Goodman and Mark Stanley (photos)