First Willow Warblers

In hope of some early Harriers, we had decided to start the count a bit earlier than standard time today again. It was me, Alix, and Gustav counting today, and we were joined by Knud, Hans and Jørgen, as well as many birders. Especially the first two hours were fantastic for the passerines, with many finches and good numbers of the Skagen specialty Ring Ouzel (Ringdrossel). We were also rewarded with two males and an adult female Pallid Harrier (Steppehøg) and good views of Hen Harriers (Blå Kærhøg). Another highlight was a resting Slavonian Grebe (Nordisk Lappedykker) and Black-throated Diver (Sortstrubet Lom).

Male Pallid Harrier (Steppehøg)

In the meanwhile, the ringers had a good morning with an enjoyable amount of birds allowing for thoughout looks. They also caught Blackcaps (Munk) again and the first Willow Warblers (Løvsanger) of the season. So spring is here! Fun was also a Coal Tit (Sortmejse) which was the first one of the continental subspecies for Dylan in hand.

Highlights of the ringing

After the end of the count, we walked to the Cormorant Lake, where we counted the nests. We got 69 nests, which is a good increase compared to the last weeks and interesting to see.

When we came back, we had lunch, and most of us went for a nap before we entered the data from this morning. Dylan and Gustav went to Nordstrand again after they heard that Raptor migration was still good, and they saw a White Stork (Hvid Stork) as well as a Golden Eagle (Kongeørn) just overhead. Dylan went back, and Gustav stayed out for a bit longer to do some birding with a friend.

It was Hans and Birthe cooking today, and we had lasagna and an avocado salad. What a feast! Hans also helped with a much needed shopping trip, which is very much appreciated considering that we need to transport everything by bike otherwise.

After dinner Dylan and Gustav went to twitch a Wryneck (Wendehals) which was found in town this afternoon.

Wryneck in Skagen (Picture by Gustav)

People: Alvin Johansson, János Schadl, Alix Bortolussi, Julian Helbig, Dylan Daunt, Simon S. Christiansen, Gustav Juel, Knud Pedersen, Hans Christophersen, Birthe Christopersen, Jørgen Hulbæk, Michael Ancher