A quiet Autumn so far . . .

The weather this Autumn hasn't been ideal for migrants on the East Coast, with low numbers of  relatively common birds reported. In fact we haven't had any weather window that have encouraged me to change plans and head for the coast. I have however stumbbled across a few birds and the month has gone on.

On Tuesday 5rd October i headed to Sheringham, not really to bird watch but just a wander really with Agnes, however the binoculars went in the bag as normal. With a NW wind blowing it was worth a quick look over the sea. Sea watching with a 2yr old, a limited supply of snacks and no scope isn't easy so i only managed 20 minutes, long enough with the help of a 'prepared' birder to spot a Sooty Shearwater and a Guillemot.

Walking too work via the River Wensum the regular Grey Wagtail have been in evidence, appearing to defend territories, but probably trying to finally chase off their fully grown young. I've also seen the Kingfisher on at least 3 mornings, and had a small group of Redwing fly over on 6th Oct.

At home Blackbird numbers seem up in and around the garden and our Song Thrush has returned, Redwing have also been heard flying over a few mornings and seen on the 12th Oct.

Today (16th Oct.) enjoying what may well be the last 't-shirt' day of the year, Agnes and I headed for Cromer Zoo. After getting off the train we first walked the cliff top along the Runton Road car park, a group of Meadow Pipit flitted about the grass and a group of Starling appeared to come in-off but may have just circled around. The only migrant i can be sure of was a late Yellow Wagtail in the horse paddock near the zoo. I also saw this rather smart Small Copper butterfly enjoying the sun on my way home.

It is only mid October so we still may get some easterly migrants, but with hurricane Ophilia bearing down on the west coast. they'll probably arrive after my 10 days holiday that i started on Saturday.