As summer moves to autumn, it’s all change in the birding world again as many species move in and out of the UK. James Cassels of Arran Birding is keen for reports of any bird sightings at this time of year:
In August, breeding is coming to an end and if you have any August records of recently fledged birds I would be pleased to have these. After breeding a number of species begin to flock together, some in preparation for migration. Already I have had reports of gathering Starling, Linnet, Curlew and Manx Shearwater. I am interested in all flocks even of familiar birds like House Sparrow . In addition there have been some reports of migrants like Bar-tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Sanderling, Sandwich Tern and Whimbrel moving south along the coasts. I am interested in all signs of migration.
How about over the coming weeks reporting your largest groups of Swallow and of House Martin and when you last see Swallow or House Martin? That’s a challenge for you.
A Swallow aside – Take a look at telegraph wires to see them gathering before they fly to France, Spain and eventually southern Africa. They need to make sure they are well stocked up before they go, so look out for them flying low over fields to find insects to fuel their 6,000+ mile journey. As well as crossing the sea more than once, Swallows, which weigh less than 14 paper clips, also fly over the Sahara Desert, an amazing feat for such a small bird. (Notes from RSPB).
As you know I am not just interested in rare or unusual birds, but also the common birds which are often overlooked. Please take a moment to share your August bird sightings with me giving the usual information namely “what”, “when”, and “where”. What you saw, the date you saw it and where you saw it. Send reports to jim@arranbirding.co.uk
And here is some lovely Swallow news from across the water on Holy Isle , 27th August.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1115151353274646
The second brood this year of baby swallows growing very quickly. The nest is above a light in the entrance to the garden shed
Featured image shows pair of swallows. Credit: Shona Redmayne