Saturday 12 May 2012

A note from Alan Lyne


Aberarth
The wind off the sea resulted in relatively few Chats to record for the BTO survey although 4 fledgling Stonechats were keeping their parents frantic with feeding activity. On the shore just north of Aberarth were 18 Whimbrel. 3 recently fledged Ravens found the windy conditions difficult so resorted to sheltering on the coastal path, their naivety meant it was possible to approach quite close meanwhile above their parents demonstrated outstanding flying skills. A couple of Gannets passed near to the cliffs and above the sea bird colony, the aroma of rotting fish was somewhat strong,  several Fulmars were flying past at eye level.
Saw my first orchid of the season, assume it was an Early Purple, too near the cliff face to examine it closely. A pair of Choughs entertained however where they landed on the grass it was not possible to see if they had any colour rings. Quite an invigorating walk, at least it stayed dry!