There were more signs of autumn migration getting underway today with a mighty fine full summer plumaged Spotted Redshank in Middlebere. These early Spotted Redshank tend to be females which leave the breeding grounds in the north earlier than the males, leaving them behind to raise the chicks. Middlebere, Lytchett Fields and (when it’s open) the Brownsea Lagoon are often the best places to try and see full breeding plumaged Spotted Redshank this time of year. There was also 44 Curlew and a Greenshank in Middlebere which would also suggest a possible early returners. The same 4 White-tailed Eagle were in and around the Wareham Channel area today with birds coming and going across the area with individuals seen in Lytchett Bay, over Middlebere and at Morden Bog.

Spotted Redshank – Middlebere – Garry Hayman