The summer doldrums already seem to be upon us with very little news over the last few days. Strong south westerlies haven’t helped the cause too much. Still, enough sightings kept trickling through…

Highlights on Wednesday 8^th included a sea watch at Branksome where 5 Gannet, 3 Fulmar and 5 Common Tern all passed. At Arne Dartford Warbler numbers seem stable with at least 4 pairs on Coombe Heath alone, also there summer plumage Dunlin, Grey Plover and Ringed Plover. Lesser Whitethroat was still singing at Lytchett Bay.

Thursday 9^th saw a decent range of wader species at Lytchett Bay which included Knot, Turnstone, Bar-tailed godwit, Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank. On Brownsea the Sandwich Terns are now fully settled with many bird now on eggs. Also the Nightjar is back at it’s favoured roosting spot in front of the Lake Hide. Despite their secret nature Golden Pheasants have also been reported more frequently than usual. At Fleets Corner there was a Garden Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher and 2 Whitethroat present.

Friday 10^th was very quiet. Lytchett Bay saw 2 summer plumage Grey Plover, 22 Dunlin, and 1 Hobby.

Saturday 11^th and Sunday 12^th could only muster a Marsh Harrier at Swineham, a few Whitethroat at Fleets Corner and 2 Hobby over Arne.