Much of the same today, although we were able to get a sound recording of the Redwing flock at Holton Lee early morning. The recording consists of a flock of around 100 birds carrying out ‘Community Song’ which is comprised of a whole host of sounds including song, contact call, social calls, flight calls and general chatter. It’s a sound you’ll only ever really hear in Dorset late in Feb or early March before the Redwing move off, but when you come across it, the sound really hits you. You can even hear the moment when a raptor (possibly a Sparrowhawk or Buzzard) fly’s over and the whole flock respond by going silent. Other species that carry out this Community Song this time of year include Siskin and Starling. Also at Holton Lee 2 Woodlark and again plenty of Siskin around. Spoonbills were at Arne and Lytchett Bay with 2 Marsh Harrier also at Lytchett Bay.

Redwing – Community Song – Holton Lee 26/02/16