With the final day of the year upon us, it’s good to look back reflect back on whats been an incredible year for the charity. Without doubt this has been the best year in our 11 year history in terms out outreach, education, income/donations and outcomes. We could never have guessed this time last year we would have had four Osprey chicks in CJ7’s and 022’s nest this spring/summer which all survived and migrated safely. We also hosted more bird boats and events than ever before, engaging with around 10,000 guests throughout the year. We also got our Young Birders Club up and running, providing free events across the year for 13-18 year olds and as always, our School Bird Boat program saw us take out c1000 7-12 year olds from local schools around the harbour. We still have a lot left to do, and we promise we’ll always make every effort to keep you updated and involved in all aspects of our work, because after all, if it wasn’t for you, we wouldn’t be the charity we’re always striving to be. So here’s looking forward to an even bigger and better 2025, and we can’t wait to see you all again soon.

Despite the blustery last day of the year, there was plenty to enjoy. Yesterdays Snow Bunting was incredibly confiding all day on Hamworthy Beach, often allowing dogs to pass with 2m of it. It moved around a bit, sometimes flying to the the paddling pool for a break before moving back to the beach. Also this morning there were 3 White-tailed Eagle sat together in Lytchett Bay, both adults G466 and G463 plus a wandering juvenile G644. The 2 Purple Sandpipers were on the groynes at Sandbanks Beach again, there was a male Hen Harrier in Lytchett Bay and a ringtail was in Middlebere. The Long-tailed Duck flew into the harbour again this morning and was off Jerry’s Point mid-morning. There were 4 Black-necked Grebe in Studland Bay with 10 Common Scoter and 4 Great Northern Diver. Out in Poole Bay a building number of Gannet were congregating, likely due to the building wind, plus 15 Razorbill, 2 Great Northern Diver and 1 Red-throated Diver. 

Snow Bunting – Hamworthy Beach – Peter Moore

Snow Bunting – Hamworthy Beach – Peter Moore

White-tailed Eagles (left to right) G644, G463 and G466 – Lytchett Bay – Ian Ballam