Ringing on 2nd June 2011

George was ringing again today, firstly at the Observatory and then later on over at the feeding station. The result for the day was 19 birds processed including 10 New birds and 9 Retraps.

  The dramatic result of the day and possible of the year though was the capture and ringing of a First for the Observatory, in the shape of a MARSH WARBLER.

  In typical style, George extracted this bird and knew exactly what it was immediately, quickly texting anybody who may have been close enough to see the bird in the hand before release. Just a couple of observers managed to see the bird before release and judging by the rarity value of this species on the reserve, they can consider themselves extremely lucky!

  The days catch was made up thus (New/Retrap) - (0/1) Great Spotted Woodpecker, (1/0) Dunnock, (0/1)Blackbird, (1/0) Marsh Warbler, (1/0) Lesser Whitethroat, (1/3) Whitethroat, (4/1) Chaffinch, (0/1) Greenfinch and (2/2) Goldfinch.

  The Marsh Warbler became the 173rd species ringed for the Observatory and a species which will be right up there as one of the best captures of the year!

  WELL DONE George!

MARSH WARBLER ringed on 2nd June 2011 - First for the Observatory!
Photo - George Gregory
MARSH WARBLER ringed on 2nd June 2011 - First for the Observatory!
Photo - George Gregory