We have now observed 278,000 migrating birds, with 207,000 counted since the beginning of July. The most abundant species has been Common Scoter, with over 80,000 individuals, but many more are expected—the season total should reach about ten times that number. The count of Black-headed Gulls (70,000) has already set a new season record. Other species with good numbers include Grey Heron (1,500 – 1,740 including June), Whimbrel (690), Curlew (717 – 1,048 including June), Greenshank (375 – 532 including June), Curlew Sandpiper (350), and Black Tern (108). Many more of these species are still expected to be counted later in the season. The total of 188 Shelducks is also quite good (293 including June)— but not a single first-year bird has yet been seen flying.

Waders are now passing through—the count of 4,900 Dunlins yesterday was good, and Curlew Sandpiper numbers have been strong for several days. Several other wader species are also migrating in smaller numbers. The large migration of Common Scoters is expected any day now.

Sunset 19th July