Holme Bird Observatory (Header)

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ACCESS TO HOLME BIRD OBSERVATORY UPDATE

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Holme Bird Observatory 22nd April 2023

Highlights today were 6 Whimbrel, 2 Cuckoos, 2 Barn Owls, 5 Swallows, a House Martin, 15 Chiffchaffs, 4 Willow Warblers, 4 Blackcap, Lesser and Common Whitethroat, 2 Grasshopper Warblers, 8 Sedge Warblers, 20+ Yellow Wagtails, a Brambling, 2 Redpolls and a Siskin were recorded.

In the moth traps 3 Shuttle-shaped Darts, a Pine Beauty, 3 Northern Drabs, a Hebrew Character and a Dark Sword-grass were caught. 

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Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels Buckenham Marshes RSPB +Water Pipit
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Strumpshaw Fen RSPB
Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels (both males) between Blakeney +Morston still mid a'noon in horse paddock from coast path 52.9549,1.0012
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton still 3.10pm at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk 2.Garganey Hickling Broad NWT still mid a'noon at Brendan's Marsh +Ring Ouzel Little Gull
Norfolk Shorelark Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 2.47pm 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Burnham Overy Dunes c300yds west of west end of Holkham Pines mid a'noon c52.9753,0.7763
Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels Winterton in ploughed field
Norfolk Pied Fly male Burnham Overy Dunes still 2.25pm in bushes at end of boardwalk 52.9761,0.7657
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male between Muckleburgh Hill +Kelling Water Meadow on track 52.9479,1.1221
Norfolk Ring Ouzel fem Beeston Regis still in horse paddocks at Beeston Priory
Norfolk BLACK-WINGED STILT fem Welney WWT still c1.35pm from Friends Hide tho distant
Norfolk 2.FERRUGINOUS DUCKS (both drks) Filby Broad still from bridge at 1pm 52.6613,1.6301
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton still 1.35pm at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk Pied Fly male Burnham Overy Dunes still c1.35pm in bushes at end of boardwalk 52.9761,0.7657
Norfolk Osprey Hickling Broad NWT at Brendan's Marsh at 1.15pm
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male between Blakeney +Morston still 1.13pm in ditch along east side of horse paddock from coast path 52.9549,1.0012
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Hickling Broad NWT in paddock by Stubb Mill at 1pm
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton still 12.30pm at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk Osprey Ranworth Broad NWT still tho distant 52.6827,1.4872
Norfolk 6.Garganey Welney WWT +2+Bar-tailed Godwits
Norfolk BLACK-WINGED STILT fem Welney WWT still 11.50am from Lyle Hide tho distant
Norfolk Garganey drk Bintree Mill still 11.50am on flood
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hockwold Washes still from Washland Viewpoint
Norfolk 2.Little Gulls (ad +1w) Welney WWT from Nelson-Lyle Hide
Norfolk BLACK-WINGED STILT fem Welney WWT still from Friends Hide at 11.05am
Norfolk Pied Fly male Burnham Overy Dunes in bushes at end of boardwalk
Norfolk 2.Little Gulls Barton Broad at 10.50am
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Titchwell still mid morning in horse paddock
Norfolk Garganey drk Bintree Mill still 10.30am on flood
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton still 10.20am at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk 2.Garganey Hickling Broad NWT still at Brendan's Marsh
Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels (both males) between Blakeney +Morston in horse paddock from coast path 52.9549,1.0012
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton stilll 9am at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Titchwell in horse paddock
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton stilll 8.25am at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk 3.Ring Ouzels Wymondham west of River Tiffey: male in trees in 2nd field north of abbey, 2.near railway
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Titchwell RSPB still 8am
Norfolk Garganey drk Bintree Mill again on flood
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Waxham in field between church +Bide a wee Cottage
Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels Walsey Hills NOA
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton stilll 8am at east end of Water Lane in paddocks south of Seaview Car Park 52.9409,1.2498
Norfolk ISABELLINE WHEATEAR West Runton again in last paddock from car park at 7.30am
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Wymondham west of River Tiffey in trees in 2nd field north of abbey at 6.45am

Holme Bird Observatory Friday 21st April 2023

A flock of 25 Pink-feet were near the village hides, and a Gannet and 66 Sandwich Terns passed offshore, a Spoonbill, 2 Little Ringed Plovers, a Whimbrel, 3 Black-tailed Godwits, 12 Ruff, 2 Barn Owls, 3 Sand Martins, 5 Swallows, 10 Chiffchaffs, 4 Blackcaps, 5 Sedge Warblers, 3 Stonechats, 2 Redpolls and 2 Siskins were counted.

In the moth traps a Common Quaker, Clouded Drab, Hebrew Character, 2 Pine Beauties, and a Muslin were caught.

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Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Titchwell RSPB adjacent to west bank path in reedbed pool at 2.20pm
Norfolk 4.Little Gulls Bowthorpe from William Childerhouse Way this a'noon
Norfolk BLACK-WINGED STILT Welney WWT from Lyle Hide right of channel at 1.29pm
Norfolk Garganey drk Bintree Mill still 1pm on flood
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hockwold Washes still from Washland Viewpoint at 11.36am
Norfolk Garganey drk Bintree Mill still on flood at 11.21am
Norfolk Hawfinch y'day Bodham
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male y'day Kelling Quags still on track towards Salthouse in morning
Norfolk 4.Little Gulls (3+ads) Colney GPs at 9.15am
Norfolk report of 2.Garganey y'day Whitlingham Ctry Park was erroneous
Norfolk 3.Little Gulls (all ads) Colney GPs at 8.45am
Norfolk 2.FERRUGINOUS DUCKS (both drks) Filby Broad still

Holme Bird Observatory Thursday 20th April 2023

 

Another day of fairly strong NE wind meaning very little migration. The Grasshopper Warbler heard at the entrance gate yesterday was not heard today. A Willow Warbler was heard in the forestry. 8 Swallows were seen throughout the day all heading east. A Barn Owl was hunting over the grazing marsh in the morning.

5 moths were in the traps; 3 Hebrew Character, 1 Muslin and 1 Shuttle-shaped Dart

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Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still mid a'noon on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544

Norfolk 4.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still 2.15pm west of roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184

Norfolk Garganey drk Bintree Mill on flood at 2.05pm

Norfolk Garganey drk near Winterton-on-Sea

Norfolk 4.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still west of roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 1.01pm 52.9751,0.8184

Norfolk no further sign of fem.Kentish Plover Holkham Bay at Holkham Gap by 11.50am 52.9736,0.8122

Norfolk 3.FERRUGINOUS DUCKS (1.drk) Filby Broad still 12.30pm 52.6613,1.6301

Norfolk Spoonbill Cantley Marshes RSPB at 10.10am

Norfolk KENTISH PLOVER fem Holkham Bay till 9.55am at Holkham Gap at mouth then flew east 52.9736,0.8122

Norfolk KENTISH PLOVER fem Holkham Bay at Holkham Gap at mouth at 9.46am 52.9736,0.8122

Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still from Daukes' Hide at 7.28am 52.9579,1.0544


Holme Bird Observatory Tuesday 18th April 2023

A Merlin chasing Pipits over the grazing marsh at the beginning of the day was somewhat unexpected. Migration seemed to have ceased with the change of wind direction, though a Cuckoo was seen and heard and a single Wheatear was in the dunes. Three Redpolls were in the pines by the Obs.

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Norfolk 4.Garganey Welney WWT +Grey Plover
Norfolk 2.Swifts Sheringham
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still mid a'noon on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston still 12.57pm 1/4ml east of Morston Quay in horse field viewed from steps on coast path
Norfolk Arctic Tern Whitlingham Ctry Park at 2.15pm
Norfolk 6.Bar-tailed Godwits Welney WWT
Norfolk 3.FERRUGINOUS DUCKS (1.drk) Filby Broad again 12.40pm 52.6613,1.6301
Norfolk FERRUGINOUS DUCK fem Filby Broad again 12.25pm
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston still 1/4ml east of Morston Quay in horse field viewed from steps on coast path at 11.24am
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hickling Broad NWT still
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 10.24am 52.9579,1.0544

Holme Bird Observatory Monday 17th April 2023

Sixty Pink-feet flew west and 2 Common Cranes flew over west in the afternoon. Also of interest were a Whimbrel, 62 Curlew, a Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Ruff, the first Cuckoo was seen and heard in the dunes, 2 Barn Owls and a female Merlin were seen hunting, a Firecrest was in the pines, single Swallow and House Martin were recorded and 11 Chiffchaffs, 2 Willow Warblers, 5 Blackcaps, 2 Sedge Warblers, 2 Redwings, 2 Stonechats, 2 Wheatears, 4 Redpolls and a Siskin were also noted.

A female Emperor was in the moth traps together with a Small Quaker, 7 Hebrew Characters and an Agonopetrix alstromeriana.

Green Hairstreak, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Green-veined and Small White were recorded.

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Norfolk 2.Common Cranes flew NE over Burnham Deepdale at 3.25pm
Norfolk 2.Common Cranes flew east over Thornham at 3.05pm
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still 1.51pm on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still 12.19pm on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk 4.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 9.30am 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston still 1/4ml east of Morston Quay in horse field by road by 3.posts at 10am +showing well
Norfolk 2.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 10am 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme NOA still at Redwell Marsh at 9.15am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer still on St.Peter +St.Paul Church at 8.16am then flew 52.9313,1.3011
Norfolk Bittern y'day Whitlingham Ctry Park at Great Broad in reeds on north side

Holme Bird Observatory Sunday 16th April 2023

Two Cattle Egrets were seen on Park Piece early morning and then flew off towards Holme Marshes. Also of interest were a single Whimbrel over calling, 14 Black-tailed Godwits, a Barn Owl, 2 Swallows, 8 Chiffchaffs, a Willow Warbler, 5 Blackcaps, 3 Whitethroats, 5 Sedge Warblers, 2 Stonechats, 3 Yellow Wagtails flying over and a Brambling in the pines.

In the moth traps 8 Hebrew Characters, an Early Thorn, a Small Quaker, Powdered Quaker and Common Quaker were caught, with a further 5 Emperors hatching, and 5 Brimstone butterflies, 2 Peacocks and a Speckled Wood also seen. 


                                                Emerging female Emperor Moth by John Stroud

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Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels Winterton
Norfolk 4.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still 2.56pm in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Waxham
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston still 1.10pm 1/4ml east of Morston Quay in horse field viewable from sea wall +A149 near Morston Church
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Winterton Dunes NNR in north dunes at 12.08pm 52.7293,1.6863
Norfolk 2.Garganey (both drks) Welney WWT still from Lyle Hide
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Grimston Warren at 7am
Norfolk 4.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hockwold Washes still 52.4504,0.5246
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) y'day Hockwold Washes still
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston still 10.40am 1/4ml east of Morston Quay in horse field viewable from sea wall
Norfolk Short-eared Owl Claxton at Claxton Marshes at 9.31am
Norfolk Night Heron 1ml east of Cley +south of A149 at North Foreland Wood at 8.29am [heard only] 52.9540,1.0643
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 9.37am 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston still 9.35am1/4ml east of Morston Quay in horse field viewable from sea wall
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT East Runton on east side flew west just south of A149 at 9.30am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer till 9.10am at St.Peter +St.Paul Church then flew SW 52.9313,1.3011
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Morston in field 1/2ml east of Morston Quay viewable from sea wall
Norfolk Garganey drk Hickling Broad NWT still at Brendan's Marsh at 8.25am
Norfolk 3.Ring Ouzels west of Blakeney in grass field from coast path east of path to Morston at 8.50am. 2.Pale-bellied Brent Geese on saltmarsh
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer still at St.Peter +St.Paul Church at 8.24am 52.9313,1.3011
Norfolk Garganey drk flew east past Beeston Bump at 6.30am
Norfolk 2.Ring Ouzels west of Blakeney in grass field from coast path east of path to Morston at 8.03am
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Snettisham north of Beach Road at Lodge Hill in long gorse hedge viewed from Snettisham Wood perimeter path

Holme Bird Observatory Saturday 15th April 2023

A drake Garganey was on the NWT and then reported at Redwell Marsh. Two Sandwich Terns and a Common Scoter were seen offshore and a Barn Owl, 9 Sand Martins west, 12 Chiffchaffs, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Sedge Warblers, and 3 Redpolls were counted.

In the moth traps 2 Pine Beauties, 2 Hebrew Characters, a Red Chestnut, Shuttle-shaped Dart, Powdered Quaker, Northern Drab, Early Thorn, Clouded Drab and Flame Shoulder were caught.

Four Brimstones and 5 Peacock butterflies were seen around the reserve. 

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Norfolk Night Heron ad between Wiveton + Cley still 3.16pm by River Glaven north of Wiveton Bridge 52.9425,1.0411
Norfolk Night Heron ad between Wiveton + Cley by River Glaven north of Wiveton Bridge at 2.54pm 52.9425,1.0411
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male Snettisham still by Beach Road
Norfolk Garganey Welney WWT still + 4 Short-eared Owls Spotted Redshank
Norfolk 4 Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 12.30pm 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk Garganey drk Hickling Broad NWT still at Brendan's Marsh at 9am
Norfolk Black Redstart Holkham Bay in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 2 Ring Ouzels Sheringham at Beeston Bump
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme NOA still at Redwell Marsh at 11.18am
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme Dunes NWT from 1st hide
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Titchwell RSPB in suaeda west of main path 52.9686,0.6025
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer till 9.10am on St.Peter + St.Paul Church then flew off 52.9313,1.3011
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTs Cromer at St.Peter + St.Paul Church: 1.still in roost at 9am, 1.flew over at 8.30am 52.9313,1.3011
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer still roosting on St.Peter + St.Paul Church at 7am

Holme Bird Observatory Friday 14th April 2023

A drake Garganey was seen near the sea wall at Thornham, and a Little Ringed Plover flew over south. Also of interest were a Barn Owl, juvenile Peregrine, 3+ Firecrests (1 trapped and ringed), 12 Chiffchaffs, 4 Willow Warblers, 3 Blackcaps, a Whitethroat, 2 Ring Ouzels were in the Forestry early morning, and a female Redstart, 5 Stonechats, 18 Wheatears, 3 Yellow Wagtails, 3 Redpolls and 6 Siskins were recorded.

In the moth traps 12 Hebrew Characters, a Small Quaker, 3 Clouded Drabs, a Powdered Quaker, Shoulder Stripe and Water Carpet were caught, with several more Emperor Moths hatching during the day.

                                                Water Carpet and Emperor Moths hatching




Two Peacock butterflies and a Speckled Wood were also seen.

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Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male Snettisham still in field north of Beach Road just past converted farm buildings
Norfolk Osprey Ranworth Broad
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1s Cley NWT still 1pm on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide +showing well 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme NOA still early a'noon at Redwell Marsh
Norfolk Water Pipit Hickling Broad NWT still on Brendan's Marsh at 11.30am
Norfolk 3.Ring Ouzels Beeston Bump in cliff top bushes at 10.22am then flew east
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 9.58am over Beeston Bump
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hickling Broad NWT still at Brendan's Marsh from platform at 9.50am
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Snettisham Coastal Park at north end near scout hut
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham again over Beeston Bump at 9.31am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer till 9.15am at St.Peter +St.Paul church on south side of bell tower then flew west
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 9.37am 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme Dunes still on pool from sea wall at 8.13am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT reported Cromer still at St.Peter + St.Paul church on south side of bell tower at 6.43am

Holme Bird Observatory Thursday 13th April 2023

A blustery day with sunny spells, highlights were an Osprey west along the ridge and then lost to view to the south. On the sea a drake Goldeneye was noted and a Sandwich Tern flew past west. A total of 3 Swallows passed through west, and on the grazing marshes 74 Black-tailed Godwits, 61 Curlew and 29 Ruff were counted. A Sedge Warbler was along the east bank and single Stonechat and Wheatear were recorded, with a White Wagtail near Thornham Harbour. 

A single Hebrew Character was in the moth traps, and a total of 5 Emperor Moths hatched from the Observatory colony.

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Norfolk Short-eared Owl Welney WWT still
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male Holt in garden (for 4th day)
Norfolk Hoopoe East Runton in area with no general access (present for 5th day)
Norfolk 2.Hen Harriers (1.male) Roydon Common NNR still at 12.30pm
Norfolk 3.Twite Cley Marshes north of Arnold's Marsh on shingle mid-morning
Norfolk Garganey drk Hickling Broad NWT still at Brendan's Marsh on middle section from SW viewpoint at 11.51am
Norfolk 5.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 10.58am 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk White Stork Weeting Heath NWT flew west along Little Ouse River
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT West Runton flow west over A149 at 10.09am
Norfolk Hen Harrier ringtail Billockby again over fields west of A1064 from black barn at 9.39am c52.6562,1.5775
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley Marshes still on Pat's Pool
Norfolk Snow Bunting male y'day Cley Marshes still north of Arnold's Marsh
Norfolk reported ringtail.Pallid Harrier y'day Stiffkey flew west past Stiffkey Campsite was a Hen Harrier
Norfolk Hen Harrier ringtail Titchwell RSPB flew west at 6.15am

Holme Bird Observatory Wednesday 12th April 2023


Another Osprey flew west along the coast mid-day and other migrants included a count of 13 Wheatears in the recording area. 

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Norfolk no further sign of Alpine Swift Sheringham at Beeston Bump by 2.55pm
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 2.05pm over Beeston Bump +showing extremely well
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 2pm 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 1.33pm over Beeston Bump +showing well
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 1pm over Beeston Bump
Norfolk Lesser Whitethroat y'day Kelling Water Meadows
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 11.20am over Beeston Bump
Norfolk 3.Shorelarks Holkham Bay again in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 10.56am Beeston Bump over cross
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham over Beeston Bump at 10.40am
Norfolk Garganey drk Potter Heigham Marshes still at 10.17am
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hickling Broad NWT again at Brendan's Marsh on middle section at 10.15am
Norfolk Hoopoe Sheringham still 8.12am east of Beeston Bump then flew west
Norfolk Hoopoe Sheringham east of Beeston Bump

Holme Bird Observatory Tuesday 11th April 2023

 An Osprey flew west along the coast early morning, and a Cattle Egret appeared briefly on the Grazing Marsh before heading off south. On the sea there was a count of 17 Red-breasted Mergansers, 13 Common Scoter, 11 Great crested Grebes and a single Velvet Scoter. A total of 8 Wheatears were noted during the day along, with 3 Yellow Wagtail and a single White Wagtail. A Whimbrel was found in amongst the Curlew flock, and on Thornham Pools there were counts of 71 Black-tailed Godwits and 29 Ruff. The moth trap 4 Hebrew Characters, 3 Clouded Drabs and single Early Thorn and Water Carpet.

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Norfolk Black Redstart male Horsey at Nelson Head pub
Norfolk Wood Sand Buckenham Marshes RSPB
Norfolk Little Gull Kelling Water Meadows
Norfolk Osprey flew west over Burnham Norton at 8.50am
Norfolk 2.Spoonbills Holkham Freshmarsh from Lady Anne's Drive on Freshmarsh at 12.41pm
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Horsey around Nelson Head track
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley Marshes in SW corner of Pat's Pool at 9.55am
Norfolk Hobby flew west over Fring at 10am
Norfolk 3.Garganey (all drk) Potter Heigham Marshes from near The Holt at 9.57am
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Pat's Pool from Bishop's Hide at 8.17am 52.9579,1.0544

Holme Bird Observatory Monday 10th April 2023

Heavy rain persisted until 2pm. A drake Garganey was on Redwell Marsh and around the Observatory recording area 12 Black-tailed Godwits, 2 Ruff, a Snipe and 5 Redshank were counted. A Barn and 2 Tawny Owls were recorded, a Swallow flew through, and 3 Cetti's Warblers, 10+ Chiffchaffs, a Willow Warbler, a single Stonechat and a Redpoll were of note.

In the moth traps a Northern Drab and Hebrew Character were the only moths caught.

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Norfolk Little Gull Titchwell RSPB late morning
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still 1pm from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Long-eared Owl Waxham at Shangri-La at c9am
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape at 9.05am 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme NOA at Redwell Marsh at 9.03am

Holme Bird Observatory Sunday 9th April 2023.

The drake Garganey was again on the pools at Thornham, as were 31 Black-tailed Godwits, 21 Ruff and a Green Sandpiper. A Firecrest was trapped and ringed at the Observatory and a Treecreeper was in the pines by the Heligoland trap, not an overly common bird at the site. Birds noted overhead included two Woodlarks, heading east, Brambling, Tree Sparrow, Redpoll (4+), Siskin (4+), Swallow and House Martin.  

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Norfolk Hen Harrier male Sheringham flew SE over Morley Hill at c1.40pm
Norfolk Hen Harrier ringtail Blakeney Point over saltmarsh
Norfolk Hen Harrier ringtail Terrington Marsh along sea wall
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still 12.55pm on island at SE end of Pat's Pool from Bishop's Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Water Pipit Hickling Broad NWT still on Brendan's Marsh at west end
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hickling Broad NWT still at Brendan's Marsh on middle section at 11.50am
Norfolk Hen Harrier male between Dersingham +south end of Snettisham RSPB over fields at 11.10am c52.8501,0.4807
Norfolk Redstart male Ringstead Downs north of main track at west end of large paddock
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still from Daukes' Hide mid morning 52.9579,1.0544

Holme Bird Observatory Saturday 8th April 2023

Fourteen Pink-feet were still present and a pair of Med Gulls were noted. A single Brambling, 2 Redpolls and 2 Siskins flew over calling.

In the moth traps a Shoulder Stripe, 2 Clouded Drabs, 11 Hebrew Characters, a Double-striped Pug, Dotted Border, Early Grey and an Agonopterix heracliana were recorded.

Also noted were a Peacock butterfly and 12 Smooth Newts in the pond. 

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Norfolk unconfirmed report of Rough-legged Buzzard Kelling Water Meadow
Norfolk 1+Mealy Redpoll Strumpshaw Fen RSPB along river wall at 1.30pm
Norfolk Slav Grebe ad.sum Salthouse drifted west on sea off north end of Iron Road at 1.20pm +2w.Caspian Gull flew west
Norfolk 4+Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 3.Velvet Scoters Weybourne Camp
Norfolk no sign of Black Redstart Weybourne at gun battery
Norfolk 2.Garganey (both drks) Welney WWT still from Main Observatory
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still from Daukes' Hide at 9.50am 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hockwold Washes still
Norfolk Turtle Dove y'day Roydon Common NNR on wires by road at c10.30am
Norfolk Water Pipit y'day Cley NWT still from Daukes' Hide in a'noon

Holme Bird Observatory Friday 7th April 2023

 A North eastly wind meant not much migration today, still plenty of Robins around from the influx earlier in the week. Of note were 4 Swallows, a Yellowhammer west, 12 Chiffchaffs and 1 Blackcap. A lone Whooper Swan was seen flying over the access road with a notable kink in its neck so probably not terribly well sadly. On the sea 4 Sandwich Terns, 6 Fulmar, 5 Gannets, 24 Scoter and 7 Red-breasted Mergansers were counted.  A male Garganey was observed at Redwell in the afternoon.

Moths trapped: 5 Hebrew Character, 1 Red Chestnut

Birds ringed: 2 Robins and 2 Blackbirds

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Norfolk Black Redstart Weybourne at gun battery

Norfolk Dotterel between Great Ryburgh +Colkirk still 2.10pm in field 400yds east of B1146 Dereham Road/ Fakenham Road junction 52.8076,0.8607

Norfolk Short-eared Owl Welney WWT still

Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape at 1.15pm 52.9579,1.0544

Norfolk Dotterel between Great Ryburgh +Colkirk still 12.25pm in field c1/4ml from Dereham Road/ Fakenham Road junction

Norfolk Water Pipit Hickling Broad NWT still on Brendan's Marsh

Norfolk Dotterel between Great Ryburgh +Colkirk still 10am in field c1/4ml from Dereham Road/ Fakenham Road junction

Norfolk Dotterel between Great Ryburgh +Colkirk still 9am in field c1/4ml from Dereham Road/ Fakenham Road junction

Norfolk Dotterel between Great Ryburgh +Colkirk again in field c1/4ml from Dereham Road/ Fakenham Road junction

Holme Bird Observatory Thursday 6th April 2023

At least 32 Med Gulls were in the area of the Broadwater and Grazing marsh today. Willow warblers also appeared in some number, with three singing bird in the dunes and one behind the Obs building. A Short-eared Owl was in the dunes and a Wheatear near Thornham Harbour mouth. Eight Ruff and a Black-tailed Godwit were on Thornham Pools. 

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Norfolk Kittiwake ad Whitlingham Ctry Park still 3.45pm at east end of Great Broad
Norfolk Short-eared Owl Welney WWT again
Norfolk Kittiwake ad Whitlingham Ctry Park still 1.30pm at east end of Great Broad
Norfolk Kittiwake ad Whitlingham Ctry Park at Great Broad at 12.55pm
Norfolk FERRUGINOUS DUCK Hickling Broad NWT in Lings Mill bay from boat this morning
Norfolk Water Pipit y'day Buckenham Marshes RSPB still
Norfolk Short-eared Owl y'day Rockland Broad again
Norfolk 3.Water Pipits Hickling Broad NWT still on Brendan's Marsh at 8.15am
Norfolk no sign of Alpine Swift Sheringham by 8.30am
Norfolk Black Redstart Waxham still at Waxham Sands Holiday Park

Holme Bird Observatory Wednesday 5th April 2023

Two Pink-footed Geese were on the grazing Marsh today with the Greylags. At least two Siskin and a Redpoll were noted flying over. Robins were still evident around the reserve with another five new birds ringed. The moth traps were disappointingly quiet, with only two Hebrew Characters and a Small Quaker caught. 

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Norfolk Reed Warbler singing y'day Whitlingham Ctry Park
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hickling Broad NWT at Brendan's Marsh viewed from raised gate on bank at 2.17pm
Norfolk no further sign of Bluethroat Weybourne at Weybourne Camp just west of beach car park by midday
Norfolk Garganey drk Welney WWT still from Main Observatory
Norfolk Bluethroat Weybourne at Weybourne Camp just west of beach car park viewed from coastal path
Norfolk Reed Warbler male singing y'day Cley Marshes

Holme Bird Observatory Tuesday 4th April 2023

Two Firecrests were again seen in the pines and 29 Black-tailed Godwits were on the marsh, with 2 Barn Owls hunting early morning and another visible migration of continental Robins taking place with 15 ringed during the day. Also of interest were a Brambling, 2 Siskins and 6 Redpolls, with an adult male Mealy Redpoll also trapped and ringed.

Another 6 Hebrew Characters were in the moth traps, 14 Smooth Newts were in the pond, and 3 Brimstones, a Comma and a Peacock were on the wing in the afternoon.

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Norfolk Black Redstart Waxham at Waxham Sands Holiday Park by stored caravans at 11.30am
Norfolk no further sign of fem.Bluethroat Cley 500yds west of beach car park by 3.08pm
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still late morning on Pat's Pool from Bishop Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Bluethroat fem Cley still 1.55pm 500yds west of beach car park tho elusive
Norfolk Bluethroat fem Cley still 1.10pm just west of beach car park in suaeda +reeds SW of tractors
Norfolk Garganey drk just east of Wells at North Point Pools on north edge of westernmost pool viewed from bank east of pool this a'noon. Keep to public rights of way +don't enter from railway station TF.932.431
Norfolk 5.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap late morning 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 1+Bluethroat fem Blakeney Point still this a'noon 300yds NNW of Lifeboat House 52.9757,0.9727
Norfolk Garganey drk Welney WWT still from Main Observatory at 11.47am
Norfolk Bluethroat Blakeney Point still 300yds NNW of Lifeboat House at 11.50am 52.9757,0.9727
Norfolk Bluethroat Cley just west of beach car park by tractors
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Pat's Pool at 9.45am


Holme Bird Observatory Monday 3rd April 2023

 On the grazing marshes 9 Ruff, 14 Black-tailed Godwits, 2 Little Ringed Plovers and 6 Snipe were of interest. 


In the moth traps 10 Hebrew Characters, a Clouded Drab, Dotted Border and Common Quaker were caught.

Holme Bird Observatory Sunday 2nd April 2023

On the sea today 11 Pintail passed east offshore, 16 Sandwich Terns were moving and a Common Scoter and Fulmar were also noted. Two Barn Owls were hunting and  4 Cetti's Warblers, 8 Chiffchaffs and 25+ Robins were of interest. 

In the moth traps a Small Quaker, 3 Hebrew Characters and 2 Clouded Drabs were caught. Six Smooth Newts were in the pond.

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Norfolk Osprey NE of Narborough still 3pm in dead tree in NW corner of Narford Lake viewable from just south of church c52.6950,0.6047
Norfolk FERRUGINOUS DUCK drk Filby Broad still from A1064 Filby Bridge (+drk.Smew still)
Norfolk Osprey NE of Narborough in dead tree at Narford Lake at 2.04pm c52.6950,0.6047
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still 1.58pm on Simmonds' Scrape 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk 4.Garganey (2.drks) Hockwold Washes
Norfolk 3.Garganey (2.drks) Hockwold Washes still
Norfolk 2.Spoonbills between Hickling Broad NWT +Horsey circled at c1.25pm
Norfolk Bluethroat Blakeney Point in Marrams then flew over River Glaven to suaeda by Blakeney sea bank near bench
Norfolk 2.Garganey Walsey Hills NOA
Norfolk Garganey drk Cantley Marshes RSPB in SE corner at 11.40am
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male Martham in garden
Norfolk Garganey drk Welney WWT still
Norfolk 10.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk FERRUGINOUS DUCK drk y'day Filby Broad still from Filby Bridge
Norfolk Smew drk y'day Rollesby Broad again from Waterside Cafe 52.6804,1.6380
Norfolk 5.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape at 8.30am 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Black Redstart Cley NWT along East Bank at sluice
Norfolk Black Redstart y'day Caister

Holme Bird Observatory Saturday 1st April 2023

Two Firecrests were still present around the Observatory reserve and a Goosander flew north over the pines. 

In the moth traps 8 Hebrew Characters, a Small Quaker and an Early Thorn were caught.

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Norfolk 1+Garganey Welney WWT still
Norfolk Rough-legged Buzzard Wells over fields then drifted towards harbour at 1.27pm
Norfolk Hen Harrier male Burnham Overy Marshes again at 12.53pm
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hockwold Washes still opposite New Fen North +2.Water Pipits
Norfolk report of Alpine Swift Fakenham was erroneous
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT flew over Fakenham
Norfolk Water Pipit Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 9.06am


Holme Bird Observatory Friday 31st March 2023

A drake Garganey was again on the NWT pools, and on the sea 12 Eider, a Common Scoter, 8 Red-breasted Mergansers, a Fulmar, single Gannet, 2 Great Crested Grebes and 3 Sandwich Terns were seen. Also of interest were 10 Snipe, 2 Barn Owls, 2 Firecrests, a Woodlark, 15+ Chiffchaffs, 2 Redwings and 2 Siskins.

In the moth traps 2 Red Chestnuts, 2 Hebrew Characters, a Pine Beauty, Common Quaker and a Small Quaker were caught.

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Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still late a'noon on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Hen Harrier Titchwell over village at 10am then flew inland
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still 2.09pm on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide +showing well 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Garganey drk Holme Dunes NWT still early a'noon. Viewed from midway along entrance track
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham again over sea at 9.21am
Norfolk HUME'S WARBLER Overstrand still 1.25pm east of golf course in clifftop gardens c52.9210,1.3372. Park in Overstrand clifftop car park +walk west NR27 0PF
Norfolk 1+Garganey Welney WWT still
Norfolk HUME'S WARBLER Overstrand still early a'noon east of golf course in clifftop bushes c52.9210,1.3372. Park in Overstrand clifftop car park +walk west NR27 0PF
Norfolk probable Hume's Warbler Overstrand again 12.15pm east of golf course in clifftop bushes tho elusive c52.9210,1.3372. Park in Overstrand clifftop car park +walk west NR27 0PF
Norfolk probable Hume's Warbler Overstrand east of golf course in clifftop bushes at 10.20am tho elusive. Park in Overstrand clifftop car park +walk west
Norfolk probable Hume's Warbler Overstrand east of golf course in clifftop bushes at 10.20am tho elusive c52.9210,1.3372. Park in Overstrand clifftop car park +walk west NR27 0PF
Norfolk Water Pipit Cley NWT still early morning
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide +showing well 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk Ring Ouzel male Eccles flew in off sea at 7.55am

Holme Bird Observatory Thursday 30th March 2023

A passage of 15 Sand Martins and 3 Swallows were noted during the morning, with a Wheatear in the dunes, 2 Stonechats, 8 Chiffchaffs and 2 Siskins also of interest. On the sea a Red-breasted Merganser was seen, and a single Ruff was in front of the car park hide. A drake Garganey was again reported.

Two Hebrew Characters were in the moth traps.

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Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT near Burnham Norton from A149 briefly 1pm
Norfolk Bittern Cley NWT from Bishops Hide at 12.25pm
Norfolk 2.Garganey Snettisham Coastal Park at Ken Hill Marshes
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Simmonds' Scrape from Daukes' Hide at 11am +showing well (+Water Pipit ad.male.Continental Black-tailed Godwit (nominate form limosa)) 52.9579,1.0544
Norfolk no further sign of swift sp Snettisham Coastal Park by 7.50am
Norfolk Hawfinch Lynford Arboretum still in paddock 52.5103,0.6805
Norfolk swift sp Snettisham Coastal Park at south end over car park +caravans 7.19-7.22am

Holme Bird Observatory Monday 27th March 2023

 The Observatory was in its own micro climate today, sheltered from the wind and with the sun shining it was lovely to sit and watch the Linnets feeding on the pine cones and a Barn Owl hunting over the marsh. A single Firecrest was seen near the Heli trap and the drake Garganey made some brief appearances in front on the first NWT hide.

In the nets 1 Chiffhchaff and 1 Blackbird were ringed

In the moths traps there were 7 Hebrew Characters and 2 Small Quakers.

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Norfolk 1+Garganey Welney WWT still +3.Short-eared Owls still

Norfolk Garganey Hockwold Washes still

Norfolk no sign of Alpine Swift east of Cromer at Royal Cromer Golf Course 11.15am-2.15pm 52.9263,1.3213

Norfolk Hen Harrier Acle flew east at Acle Bridge at 11am

Norfolk Garganey drk Holme Dunes NWT still from 1st hide tho elusive +Spoonbill

Norfolk Long-eared Owl 1.25mls ESE of Fulmodeston still by Hindolveston Road at Swanton Novers raptor watchpoint at 12.21pm 52.8322,0.9810

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still at Royal Cromer Golf Course over clubhouse briefly 10.20am 52.9229,1.3189

Norfolk no news on Alpine Swift east of Cromer at Royal Cromer Golf Course 52.9263,1.3213

Norfolk Little Gull flew north over Welney WWT at 11.10am

Norfolk Water Pipit y'day Buckenham Marshes RSPB still

Holme Bird Observatory Sunday 26th March 2023

Highlights include a single Barnacle Goose in a small flock of Canada Geese and a flock of around 40 Black-tailed Godwits with 2 birds in summer plumage. On the sea Red-breasted Mergansers were seen plus a single Common Scoter an Eider and 2 Velvet Scoter. A drake Garganey was briefly seen from the first NWT hide.

In the moth traps 11 Hebrew Characters and 2 Clouded Drabs were caught.

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Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 1.45pm at Royal Cromer Golf Course over clubhouse 52.9263,1.3213

Norfolk no sign of Alpine Swift SE of Cromer east of A149 at KartTrak Cromer 1.40-1.50pm 52.9162,1.3126 NR27 0JW

Norfolk 14.Snow Buntings Cley NWT still at north end of East Bank at 1.29pm 52.9613,1.0689

Norfolk FERRUGINOUS DUCK drk Ormesby Little Broad at 12.20pm tho elusive (+ad.drk.Smew)

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT SE of Cromer still 1.04pm east of A149 at KartTrak Cromer +showing well 52.9162,1.3126 NR27 0JW

Norfolk FERRUGINOUS DUCK Filby Broad still (+Smew) 52.6613,1.6301. Pk at Fleggburgh Village Hall +from Broad Rd go S from Anglian Wtr compound 52.6647,1.6236. Don't pk at Broad Rd/ Rugg's Ln NR29 3AG

Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Welney WWT still at Lady Fen at 12.19pm +5.Cattle Egrets

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 12.10pm over Karttrak Cromer entrance +showing well NR27 0JW

Norfolk 3.Garganey (2.drks) Hockwold Washes still 12.08pm

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 11.59am at Norwich Road/ Christopher Close junction +showing well

Norfolk 9.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184

Norfolk 2.Velvet Scoters Winterton still on sea

Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still on Pat's Pool from Bishop Hide at 11.12am 52.9577,1.0559

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 10.55am at Royal Cromer Golf Course south of clubhouse 52.9263,1.3213

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 10.39am over wood west of Northrepps Road

Norfolk Hen Harrier male y'day Warham Greens on saltmarsh at end of Garden Drove in evng. Park on concrete pad 1/3ml north of A149; don't block access 52.9592,0.8910 NR23 1QE

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still at Royal Cromer Golf Course 52.9229,1.3189

Norfolk no sign of any Alpine Swifts east of Cromer between Sea Scouts hut +Royal Cromer Golf Course by 8.09am

Holme Bird Observatory Saturday 25th March 2023

On the grazing marshes 70 Curlew, 20 Lapwings, 4 Black-tailed Godwits, 2 Ruff and a Snipe were the highlights, with a Barn Owl quartering close opposite the Broadwater and a Green Woodpecker calling from the pines. 3 Cetti's Warblers and 5 Chiffchaffs were counted and 2 Redpolls flew over calling.

A single Hebrew Character was in the moth traps.

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Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS Sheringham still over Tesco car park this morning then flew east
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still 2.51pm from Babcock Hide (2.Water Pipits)
Norfolk 9.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 2.40pm 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 2.40pm at Sea Scouts hut 52.9219,1.3189
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still this a'noon east of East Bank on Serpentine +showing well 52.9588,1.0661
Norfolk Water Pipit Cley NWT still in NE corner of Pat's Pool from Bishop's Hide
Norfolk Caspian Gull 1w y'day Nar Valley Fisheries
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 1.05pm over Sea Scouts hut
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 12.50pm at Royal Cromer Golf Course east of clubhouse 52.9229,1.3189
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 12.15pm at Royal Cromer Golf Course over SW end 52.9229,1.3189
Norfolk Long-eared Owl 1.25mls ESE of Fulmodeston still 12.15pm by Hindolveston Road at Swanton Novers raptor watchpoint in hedge on left side 52.8322,0.9810
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 11.15am south of Royal Cromer Golf Course at Suffield Park west of Northrepps Road over Park Road
Norfolk 2.Lapland Buntings Weybourne still 11.35am 1/3ml east of Coastguard Cottages in ploughed field 52.9469,1.1543
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 10.45am at Royal Cromer Golf Course from clubhouse 52.9229,1.3189
Norfolk 3.Garganey (2.drks) Hockwold Washes still +6.Water Pipits
Norfolk Long-eared Owl 1.25mls ESE of Fulmodeston still by Hindolveston Road at Swanton Novers raptor watchpoint in hedge on left side at 10am 52.8322,0.9810
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 10.32am at Royal Cromer Golf Course from clubhouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still east of East Bank on Serpentine at 10.10am +showing well 52.9588,1.0661
Norfolk 16.Snow Buntings Cley NWT still at north end of East Bank at 10am
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 9.56am at Royal Cromer Golf Course at east end 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still at Royal Cromer Golf Course at east end at 9.30am 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 9.23am at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk Hen Harrier male Potter Heigham Marshes over fields on north side at 8.24am
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male Happisburgh at beach car park briefly 8.15am
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male California on beach at steps
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse at 7.30am but no further sign by 8.41am 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 3.Lapland Buntings Weybourne still east of Coastguard Cottages west of Sheringham Park NT sign in 2nd long stubble field east of track at 8.20am tho elusive 52.9469,1.1543
Norfolk Firecrest male singing Wymondham at Becktswell by river bridge at 7am

Holme Bird Observatory Friday 24th March 2023

On the sea today 10 Eider, 2 Common Scoter, 6 Red-breasted Mergansers, 6 Fulmars, 6 Great Crested Grebes, 3 Guillemots and 5 Sandwich Terns were counted. A Garganey was on the NWT briefly, and a Spoonbill flew west, with 71 Black-tailed Godwits, 7 Ruff, 3 Snipe, 2 Firecrests, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 7 Chiffchaffs, 2 Stonechats, 28 Meadow Pipits and 6 Pied Wagtails all counted.

In the moth traps 2 Hebrew Characters, 2 Clouded Drabs and a Grey Shoulder-Knot were caught.

A Red Admiral butterfly was seen, and at least 3 Smooth Newts were in the pond.

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Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 2.20pm at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse +showing well 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk Slav Grebe Heacham South Beach still 1.56pm at Old Harbour in channel 300yds south of chalets near green shed +showing well. Use South Beach pay and display car park
Norfolk Long-eared Owl 1.25mls ESE of Fulmodeston by Hindolveston Road at Swanton Novers raptor watchpoint in hedge on west side 20yds from holly in corner 52.8322,0.9810
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 1.45pm at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse +showing well 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.Snow Buntings Salthouse still
Norfolk Snow Bunting Titchwell RSPB
Norfolk 5.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 12.55pm 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 3.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still on beach by dunes on west side at 11.54am 52.9735,0.8028
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 12.35pm at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse +showing well 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 11.45am at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse +showing well 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Overstrand again over west end at 10.55am
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 11am at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 4.Short-eared Owls Winterton Dunes NNR
Norfolk Slav Grebe Heacham South Beach still at Old Harbour in channel 300yds south of chalets near green shed at 10am. Use South Beach pay and display car park
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 9.30am at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 27.Russian White-fronted Geese y'day Holkham Freshmarsh still
Norfolk 10.Shorelarks y'day Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap 52.9751,0.8184
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 8.30am at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 7.20am at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham over Franklin Hill at 6am then flew west
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS Sheringham still over west end near Sheringham War Memorial at 6.55am
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still at Royal Cromer Golf Course just east of lighthouse at 6.37am

Holme Bird Observatory Thursday 23rd March 2023

A blustery day with sharp thundery showers. A Barn Owl was hunting near the entrance gate early afternoon, and at least 4 Chiffchaffs were singing.

In the moth traps an Angle Shades, Clouded Drab and 2 Hebrew Characters were found.

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Norfolk 3.Garganey (2.drks) Hockwold Washes still at 2.35pm +3.Water Pipits
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 2.40pm over Royal Cromer Golf Course 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 1.14pm over Royal Cromer Golf Course 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk White Stork reported y'day Wymondham flew south over Wattlefield at 4pm [seen from moving car]
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Hockwold Washes still 12.40pm
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 12.17pm at golf course over cliffs just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.Common Cranes flew west over Cley NWT at 9.49am
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 11.22am at golf course over cliffs just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk White Stork (Dutch black-ringed) ad SW of Norwich at Eaton flew SW over Waitrose at 11.15am
Norfolk Short-eared Owl Welney WWT still at Lady Fen
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Strumpshaw Fen RSPB still 10.29am from Tower Hide
Norfolk 2.Lapland Buntings (1.male) Weybourne in ploughed field east of coastguard cottages at 10.30am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Gorleston flew south over Church Road at 9.50am
Norfolk White Stork (Dutch black-ringed) ad west of Norwich flew west just south of Colney GPs at 10.38am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham flew SE over Morley Hill at 10.40am
Norfolk White Stork (Dutch black-ringed) ad Norwich flew west over The Avenues at 10.30am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Cromer still 10am at golf course over cliffs just east of lighthouse (+House Martin) 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk White Stork (Dutch black-ringed) ad Thorpe St.Andrew flew west over Thorpe St.Andrew's Broad at 10.14am
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 9.32am at golf course over cliffs just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Strumpshaw Fen RSPB from Tower Hide
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 8.20am at golf course over cliffs just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk White Stork (Dutch black-ringed) ad NE of Halvergate still 8.16am circling north of Acle New Road A47/ Branch Road junction
Norfolk White Stork (Dutch black-ringed) ad east of Halvergate still SW of Stone Road at 7.50am 52.6029,1.5870
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 7.45am at golf course below cliffs just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS east of Cromer still 7.05am at golf course below cliffs just east of lighthouse 52.9263,1.3213
Norfolk 2.ALPINE SWIFTS Cromer still at lighthouse at 6.30am then flew off

Holme Bird Observatory Wednesday 22nd March 2023

 A very windy day but the warmth in the sun saw the newts emerging in the pond, at least 10, and a Brimstone on the wing. Many Chiffchaffs were singing around the reserve and a flock of 14 Ruff flew west along Broadwater.

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Norfolk Woodlark Sheringham flew west over Beeston Bump at 10.30am

Norfolk Black Redstart Overstrand on cliffs

Norfolk Slav Grebe Heacham South Beach still at Old Harbour in channel 300yds south of chalets near green shed at 12.40pm. Use South Beach pay and display car park

Norfolk Smew ad.drk Rollesby Broad still late morning 52.6789,1.6424

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT east of Sidestrand again 12.10pm

Norfolk White Stork c1.5mls NE of Halvergate near Acle Straight /A47 corner in field at 12.10pm 52.6280,1.5898

Norfolk Hawfinch Gorleston in garden

Norfolk Sedge Warbler male singing Cley NWT again at south end of East Bank at 10.34am

Norfolk 6.Shorelarks Holkham Bay still in roped-off area east of Holkham Gap at 10.56am 52.9751,0.8184

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Overstrand still 9.50am then flew east +no further sign by 10.30am

Norfolk 3.Garganey (2.drks) Hockwold Washes still at 10.12am

Norfolk 16.Snow Buntings Cley NWT still near north end of East Bank early morning

Norfolk Hawfinch flew over Sidestrand at 9.20am

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Overstrand again 9.20am at east end

Norfolk 2.Water Pipits y'day Cley NWT still on Pat's Pool

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham again 7.10am flew east over Beeston Common +lost to view

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Overstrand offshore at 6.43am (2nd individual)

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham again at Holway Road over community centre at 6.50am

Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Overstrand again flew east over cliff at 6.18am

Holme Bird Observatory Monday 20th March 2023

On the grazing marshes 42 Curlew, 16 Black-tailed Godwits, a Ruff, 35 Redshank and 6 Snipe were among the highlights. A total of 7 Chiffchaffs were around the recording area and a pair of Stonechats, and 5 Bullfinches were also of interest.

In the moth traps 3 Clouded Drabs and 8 Hebrew Characters were caught.

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Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 3.11pm near The Reef Leisure Centre car park NR26 8WD 52.9418,1.1972
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male Cley NWT just west of beach car park by tractors at 2.25pm
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 2.07pm from The Reef Leisure Centre car park NR26 8WD 52.9418,1.1972
Norfolk Black-necked Grebe Titchwell RSPB offshore this morning +Red-necked Grebe
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT just west of Sheringham still 1.49pm over Shell petrol station
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT just west of Sheringham still c1.30pm east of coastguards
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still c12.50pm over town centre east of war memorial
Norfolk Short-eared Owl Welney WWT still +Spoonbill
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham again 11.56am flew north just west of The Reef Leisure Centre
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT 1/2ml ESE of Cromer till 10.55am at golf course below cliffs 300yds east of lighthouse then flew inland c52.9253,1.3208
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT 1/2ml ESE of Cromer still 10.45am at golf course below cliffs 300yds east of lighthouse c52.9253,1.3208
Norfolk 2.Garganey (1.drk) Welney WWT still at Lady Fen
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Beeston Regis over sea at 10.35am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham till c10.38am then flew east c1ml offshore
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer still 10.35am at golf course drifted west below cliffs near lighthouse
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham still 10.30am over east end of The Esplanade
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cromer along cliffs at east end of golf course at 10.25am
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Cley NWT flew east past beach car park at 9.57am
Norfolk LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1w Cley NWT still east of East Bank on Serpentine at 9.45am 52.9588,1.0661
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sidestrand offshore at 8.40am then lost to view
Norfolk ALPINE SWIFT Sheringham at east end of Esplanade at 8.20am
Norfolk Short-eared Owl y'day Winterton flew out to sea
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male y'day Cley NWT just east of beach car park at pillbox
Norfolk Hen Harrier male y'day Berney Marshes RSPB
Norfolk Short-eared Owl y'day Rockland Broad still