Ten Great Northern Diver were logged across Studland in all, 5 off Old Harry’s, 1 from Shell Bay and a further 4 off Jerry’s Point. A female Scaup reappeared with 4 Common Scoter at Jerry’s Point. Two Long-Tail Duck, 4 Slavonian Grebe, 2 Black-necked Grebe, 11 Goldeneye and 9 Red-breasted Merganser made up to supporting cast. South Beach, Studland featured 1 Common Scoter, 2 Black-necked Grebe, 2 Ring-necked Parakeet. Swineham Gravel Pit attracted the Red-throated Diver as well as one of the female Ring-necked Duck. A male Marsh Harrier and Peregrine made appearances through the day, along with Kingfisher, 40 Lapwing on the flood plain and 2 Spoonbill that dropped into the Wareham Channel. A Marsh Harrier was also observed doing the rounds at Holton Pools in the morning. Highlights at Wareham Common included a pair of Goosander on the River Piddle, a male Merlin, 1 Firecrest, 2 Chiffchaff, 17 Common Gull, 7 Common Snipe, 1 Skylark and 10 Bullfinch. A Goldeneye made a welcome appearance on the Holme Lane pit and a single Red-legged Partridge in the field east of the railway line.

Join Birds of Poole Harbour on virtual adventure around Whitley Lake & Surrounding Area, one of the harbour’s urban birding gems. The large, shallow area is a hotspot for kite and wind surfers on a high tide, but transforms as the tide recedes, exposing vast, nutrient-rich mudflats to be exploited… The latest episode draws on footage from our archives, supplemented with new content captured whilst out and about on our daily exercise. With continued limitations on our ability to enjoy the harbour and its birdlife, hopefully this latest instalment will offer a virtual connection to nature that we are all craving. As always, please adhere to and follow all current government advice, rules and guidelines when exercising locally.

Marsh Harrier – Holton Pools – Tony Furnell

Scaup & Common Scaup – Jerry’s Point – Garry Hayman