Another blissful late autumn day with bright sunshine and autumnal tones to set the scene. Redwing were arriving at dawn, along with the first real passage of Fieldfare with several groups over Hartland, the Piddle Valley and Arne. The Snow Bunting was still near Redhorn Quay, Studland and a redhead Goosander was in Shell Bay. An incredible total of 8 Long-tailed Duck flew into the harbour at dawn which is we believe one of the highest totals for this species in several decades. They could be just be on passage but really hope they stay for the winter. At Lytchett Bay a ringtail Hen Harrier was logged and also at Middlebere where there were 3 Marsh Harrier. A dawn watch logged 11 different Marsh Harrier depart the west harbour roost and in Brands Bay the Scaup was still around with 2 Goldeneye and 9 Red-breasted Merganser. In Holes Bay NE there were 1094 Wigeon. Red Kite were seen over Fleetsbridge and Hartland. No sign of male White-tailed Eagle G461 today.

Goosander with Brent Geese – Shell Bay – @BirderOtbt on Twitter

White-tailed Eagle on Brownsea Lagoon yesterday from Bird boat – Stuart Pentland