HAWFINCH brightens up an otherwise quiet morning on the hills

SUNDAY 28 SEPTEMBER

IVINGHOE HILLS NR

(0900-1100)

Once again, it was the Beacon and Steps areas which were deviod of fog for much of the morning but unlike yesterday, migrants were few and far between.

The undoubted highlight was a male HAWFINCH which flew over Steve Rodwell and Peter Nash at 0937 flying towards Inkombe Hole. It hit the fog bank however and halted and was seen very well in isolated trees adjacent to the gate and stile at the top of the Hole from 0950 to at least 0953 (see photograph above). It then flew back towards the Top Scrub and called several times in flight as it bounded low over the bushes (LGRE).

Two LESSER REDPOLLS also flew over, along with 4 SISKINS and 2 GREY WAGTAILS.

A number of JAYS were once again present, including a single flock of 9, as well as 6+ BLACKCAP and 15+ COMMON CHIFFCHAFFS.

Two COAL TITS were also still present, with Green Woodpecker and 4 BULLFINCHES also seen.

Steve Rodwell also saw two COMMON STONECHATS, with single males on Steps Hill and near the Beacon.