Pretty wet and dank the last couple of days but this following week is due to be quite settled so hopefully some decent birding opportunities coming up just before Christmas. Various highlights from the last few days include a redhead Goosander on Swineham GP, ringtail Hen Harriers were logged at Middlebere and Swineham, the Velvet Scoter was still in Studland Bay with 6 Common Scoter and the 6 Scaup were still out in Brands Bay. The Red-necked Grebe was still off Jerry’s Point, although distant. There were up to 5 Great Northern Diver dotted around with individuals in Studland Bay, Shell Bay and off Jerry’s Point. Great White Egrets were seen in Middlebere and at Lytchett Bay. There was a Spotted Redshank on Brownsea and another 2 in Middlebere. Off Jerry’s Point there was a single Slavonian Grebe and 2 Great Northern Diver.

1st winter Dutch-ringed Spoonbill ‘NBNZ’ – Middlebere – Pennhillman