What stunning light it was today, perfect for photographers that have been waiting for the monochrome, dull, grey overcast sky of 2023 to finally disappear. It was therefore fortuitous that some of the harbours most charismatic species were on show, delighting those who were lucky enough to encounter them. Raptors were well represented today with Goshawk, Peregrine, Marsh and Hen Harrier, White-tailed Eagle and Merlin all registered around the Arne Peninsular. The White-tailed Eagle pair were in the Wareham Channel with both on Shag Looe around midday before then departing. The Black-throated Diver was showing well again in Holes Bay south, giving point blank views at times. Off Jerry’s Point and around Redhown the Long-tailed Duck was still feeding and there was at least 1 Slavonian Grebe there too (possibly up to 3). Once again it was Great Northern Diver galore with no less than 10 around Studland. A Black Redstart (the first for the 2023/24 autumn/winter period) was in Manor Road at Studland, near the Banks Arms. There was also 10+ Red-throated Diver out in Poole Bay, 5 Spoonbill in Lytchett Bay.

Peregrine Falcon – Arne Peninsular – Mark Wright

Goshawk – Arne Peninsular – Mark Wright

Hen Harrier – Arne Peninsular – Mark Wright