The day started off quietly but finished with a sparkle when it was discovered that a female Red-backed Shrike had spent some time tucked up in a remote corner of Hartland Moor all afternoon and evening. Until the 1950’s this species could be found on most heathlands of east Dorset… but a decline started in 1951 and was complete by 1962. Todays record is only the 9^th Poole Harbour record since 1961. Nightjars on Upton Heath were active at dusk, but activity at sites like Slepe Heath and Arne was limited with just 2-3 birds at each site. Out in the harbour there was a single late Red-breasted Merganser and good numbers of Sandwich and Common Terns out feeding. 

Red-backed Shrike – Hartland Moor