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NOT A BUTTERFLY IN SIGHT.
Looking at the weather forecast I think the chances of a butterfly in the next week are non existent. Which is a real shame following a long and cold winter.
TUESDAY 26 MARCH 2013.
Rye Harbour today, and yes it was freezing. The wind chill put the temperature in the negative and made walking an uncomfortable experience. We had gone as yesterday 2 Male Kentish Plovers had been showing in front of Lime Kiln Cottage, (the reserves information centre). No sign today, they must have been sheltering from the cold wind. We did find a migrant in the form of a Wheater and the sight of 10 Avocets was good. All the usual common waders at this excellent reserve.
We called in at Dungeness on the way home but not much had changed. 2 Black Redstarts were near the Observatory and another male was on the south end of the ARC pit. The Great White Egret was at its usual spot on the New Diggings. The ARC pit held the usual ducks and 3 Marsh Harriers were displaying.
THURSDAY 28 MARCH 2013.
Another go for the Kentish Plover at Rye Harbour. This time we were lucky, although it remained distant and mobile. The number of Avocets had increased to 12, joined by 2 Sandwich Terns and 2 Med Gulls. Still large numbers of common waders and a Rock Pipit was on the adjacent river. Going back through Camber we saw 5 Med Gulls, Chiffchaff and a Little Egret. At Dungeness we were lucky to see 2 Bitterns in flight. One over the RSPB entrance track and the other over Dengemarsh. 6 Marsh Harriers were attempting to display. The Great White Egret on New Diggings, 3 Goldeneye on ARC, and Chiffchaff around the RSPB car park.
Finally we were put onto a Little Ringed Plover along Dengemarsh Road. Our first of the year and a good end to an enjoyable, if somewhat cold, day.
Dave

THIS WEATHER IS NOW GETTING BORING.
We no longer need to check the weather forecast. Its the same day after day. Not only is it cold and dull, but we should remember its also mainly dry. We have seen more Primroses this week as the temperatures nudges toward 6 degrees but little else.
FRIDAY 29 MARCH 2013.
Actually not a bad day birding wise. We toured the Dungeness area seeing all the usual birds including 2 Great White Egrets, 2 Bitterns in flight, Smew, Goldeneye and Black Redstart. 4 Marsh Harriers showed some interest in each other and a Common Buzzard was near Lydd. We saw a different Little Ringed Plover down Dengemarsh Road which somehow managed to find and join yesterdays bird. Early afternoon we had a message saying that 2 Penduline tits were showing near Firth Hide on the RSPB. Despite several of us being there within 15 minutes there was no further sign. I was shown a photograph of a male bird that was feeding on the edge of the reed bed just before we arrived. That's the 4th sighting of this pair in the last month and all at different locations, some a mile apart. We then toured Walland Marsh and managed to see the wintering Male Hen Harrier near Cheyne Court. The male is a delightful bird and its grey colours stand out at distance. 6 Marsh Harriers were flying around and a female Sparrowhawk flew through. Also seen was 2 Common Buzzards and 2 Tree Sparrows.
We ended the day near the Military Canal Warehorne seeing a stunning Barn Owl, 4 Little Egrets, 3 Chiffchaffs, 50 Fieldfares and 2 adult Med Gulls.
SATURDAY 30 MARCH 2013.
We had resisted the urge to go and see the White Spotted Bluethroat which had been present for 3 days at Samphire Hoe, despite most of Kent's birders descending on the site on Good Friday. However today we guessed the number of visitors would be lower and so it proved. On our arrival there was only about 20 other birders so probably a good decision to wait. The bird was quite mobile and elusive as it dodged the snow showers, (yes there was quite a few day but luckily none laid). In the end we had 2 views on the ground and several flight views. Also present Peregrine and 2 Stonechats.
Next was Copt Point which was very quiet. Just 2 adult Med Gulls. Then Warehorne where a distant Kingfisher was sitting on a perch looking for a meal. A Little Egret flew along the Canal and a Common Buzzard passed nearby. We ended the day near Appledore Turkey Farm and was amazed to see a Common Crane with 2 Mute Swans. It was a adult bird and presumably the same bird as the one seen recently on nearby Walland Marsh. Not sure where it has been to the last few weeks, but still very nice to see. Also seen was 3 Little Egrets, 4 Golden Plover and 2 Common Buzzards.

In all two very good days of birding. Just wish it would warm up as we should be seeing butterflies by now.
Dave

THE SUN SHINES (but its still very cold)
Yesterday the sun broke through and shone most of the day, but it made little difference to the very cold temperatures and certainly not enough to encourage any butterflies.
SUNDAY 31 MARCH 2013.
We started the day at Warehorne where 2 Little Egrets and a Med Gull were near the canal. No sign of the Common Crane at Appledore but a Peregrine over chasing a flock of Golden Plover was unexpected. A Common Buzzard was present as was a flock of 50 Fieldfares. Next was Fairfield which was quiet except for a Little Egret. 4 Common Buzzards and 4 Med Gulls were circling over the Woolpack Inn (no, we had not stopped for a pint). Walland Marsh produced 6 Marsh Harriers and 4 Tree Sparrows. Finally we arrived at Dungeness, which was bitterly cold. Again it was much of the same. 2 Black Redstarts were along the Observatory Road. 2 Great White Egrets were on New Diggings. A Raven was seen along Dengemarsh Road and again later over Boulderwall Farm. A Peregrine along Dengemarsh Road. A Common Buzzard was near Lydd and finally the usual things on the sea.
It was so cold on the sea front that many Easter visitors stayed away. It was one of the quietest Easters we have seen at Dungeness and many of the attractions must have suffered badly.
MONDAY 01 APRIL 2013.
Today we chose Stodmarsh for our birding activity. No other reason than we calculated that it may be warmer down in the valley. It was, but only just.
On parking we were surprised to be informed that the Penduline Tit was still present from the last month and today it was showing near the Alder Wood. We arrived at the spot and after 30 minutes the bird announced its presence nearby by calling. A few minutes later I see it fly in and put several people onto it, including one passing family of birders who had a nice surprise. Seen during our visit was 7 Marsh Harriers, 3 Common Buzzards, 4 Water Rails, 4 Bearded Tits, 6 Cettis Warblers, Chiffchaff, Redpoll, Sparrowhawk and Greater Spotted Woodpecker in addition to all the common woodland birds.

The other good feature of the day was the increasing numbers of Primroses and Lesser Celandine seen on our journey. Perhaps the real spring is not that far away. For us Easter was actually quite a good weekend of birding. For others the cold weather meant that the weekend was a bit of a let down. Let us hope that temperatures return to normal very soon.

Eye watering cold.
Wednesday 03 April 2013.
On arrival at Dungeness the temperature gauge said 3 degrees but it felt more like minus 3 in a biting North East wind. It was so cold that birders stayed away. We only saw the Observatory Assistant Warden and four other birders all day. Most of the local regulars had gone to France for the day. First for a bit of warmth, and second for Black Woodpecker (failed) and Middle Spotted Woodpecker (saw and photographed 2 pairs). Our day had started really well with 19 Waxwings in our garden for about 20 minutes. The light was rubbish so we only have record photos. Still, very nice to see a stunning and appreciated bird.
Dungeness itself held 2 male and 14 female Smew on ARC pit, along with a Goosander, Merlin, Great White Egret and 3 Bar Tailed Godwits flew over. The general area held Bittern, Common Buzzard, 2 Marsh Harriers, 2 Hares, 9 Snipe and all the usual common duck and waders. The sea was very quiet with just a few Gannets and Red Throated Divers moving. On the way home we saw a Common Buzzard, Marsh Harrier, 5 Redwings and 200 Fieldfares on Walland Marsh, and a Little Egret, Green Sandpiper and Med Gull at Warehorne.
Thursday 04 April 2013.
A tour of Hothfield, Westwell and Eastwell produced 3 Common Buzzards, 10 Siskins, Nuthatch, 35 Redwings and 300 Fieldfares. It was so cold we were glad to get home. We have noted however that the number of Primroses in flower increases every time we go out, so Spring can't be long.
Still only seen one butterfly this year and the weather over the next few days will not increase our chance of any more.
Dave

The sun comes out and so does the Butterflies.
Well two at least. Both Small Tortoiseshells and both together. Despite a long search we found no more.
SATURDAY 6 APRIL 2013.
A day of almost a good bird. We arrived at Dungeness to be told that a male Gargeney was showing on the ARC pit. Despite being there fairly quickly it had already moved on. The pit held its usual 2 male and 8 female Smew, Goldeneye and all the common duck. We then received another message to say that a Iceland Gull was present on the patch. Thirty minutes later we were looking at a White Winged Gull but something was not right. It had a bright yellow bill like a Herring Gull, so we assuming that it is just a odd Herring Gull. Whilst there we had a 60 second view of a White Stork as it flew over the Power Station and back inland being mobbed by hundreds of gulls. (The White Stork was seen well over the RSPB on 2 occasions). The sea produced Sandwich Tern, Yellow Legged Herring Gull and 25 Red Throated Divers. A 3rd winter Caspian was found by a friend who was just about to put us all onto it when 2 walkers came along the beach and put everything up. There was about 5,000 gulls and they scattered far and wide. With Dungeness providing much the same as previous occasions we decided to go home and were lucky to see 5 Waxwings fly over the garden, plus a male Blackcap in the garden.
SUNDAY 7 APRIL 2013.
With sun and light winds forecast it had to be Dungeness again. On arriving at the beach a small group of Dung regulars were already sea watching. There was a big movement of birds passing. The day saw over 3,000 Red Throated Divers, a Dungeness day record. We saw 450 of them, together with 2 Black Throated and 1 Great Northern Diver. We also saw 12 Little Gulls, 5 Eider, 1 Whimbrel and 30 Curlew, 320 Brent Geese, 35 Sandwich Terns, 20 Auks, many Common Scoter, Kittiwakes and Gannets, a adult Med Gull and yesterdays odd White Winged Gull. A Common Buzzard flew in off the sea and a Raven over the Power Station. A message informed us that a Spoonbill had landed along Dengemarsh, which we later saw. Also seen was 3 Black Redstarts, Cettis Warbler, Great White and Little Egret, 2 Goldeneye and 6 Smew. Just as we were giving up hope on any butterflies we found 2 Small Tortoiseshells along Dengemarsh Road.
A great end to a very exciting day.
MONDAY 8 APRIL 2013.
Although sunny it was back to the cold winds and so little chance of butterflies. So it proved on our trip to Stodmarsh. There was no no sign of the Penduline Tit
or any other spring migrants. We did see 4 displaying Marsh Marriers, 2 Common Buzzards, 11 singing/ calling Cettis Warblers, 4 Water Rails, Bearded Tit, 100 Redwings and several Treecreepers.
Our journey to and from produced 6 Common Buzzards near Seaton and 3 near Godmersham, otherwise it was quiet.
Dave

One Swallow does not make a summer
But its a start. We were lucky to see a Swallow pass over the garden just after mid-day, and before a shower of rain took place. Hopefully the first of many returning birds. Now we know summer is on the way. Also a male Peregrine passed over late afternoon and a flock of 5 Waxwings landed in our neighbour's tree. Our son saw another 4 nearby whilst on a walk to the town. They are obviously still in the area, although very mobile.
Dave

Warm weather forecast for tomorrow.
Hopefully it, and the butterflies arrive. Today (Saturday) started off reasonable but the rain came in after mid-day and put paid to any further nature watching.
WED 10 APRIL 2013.
Today the weather was bright but coldish. At least it felt cold at Dungeness. The sea was a lot quieter, we only saw 3 Sandwich Terns, 12 Common Scoter and 150 Brent Geese. A tour of the area produced 8 Chiffchaffs, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Wheatears, 10 Goldcrests, Fieldfare, Sparrowhawk, 2 Little Egrets, 3 Great White Egrets, Spoonbill, male and 10 female Smew, 2 Cetti's Warblers and 5 Marsh Harriers. No butterflies what so ever but our friend at Ruckinge invited us to see his overnight trap of 3 moths. They were, Tawny Pinion, March Moth and the micro Diurnea fagella.
THURSDAY 11 APRIL 2013.
Back to Dungeness in the hope of something. Still mighty cold so butterflies were zero. We saw 4 Med Gulls at New Romney and 2 Med Gulls at Greatstone, there must have been a small movement going on. Dungeness produced cold hands and 2 Wheatears, Black Redstart, 3 Willow Warblers, 3 Blackcaps, 2 Swallows, 15 Red Throated Divers, 2 Fulmars, 14 Brent Geese, 12 Common Terns, 3 Sandwich Terns and 20 Common Scoter. Around the RSPB we saw a oiled Red Throated Diver, 3 Great White Egrets, 2 Little Egrets, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 2 Willow Warblers, Sparrowhawk, Merlin, Water Rail, Whimbrel and two smashing summer plumage Black Necked Grebes.
FRIDAY 12 APRIL 2013.
A quick tour of Eastwell produced very little although it was very nice to see Marsh Marigold in full flower.

SATURDAY 13TH APRIL 2013.
We started the day at Dungeness seeing 4 Firecrests, 5 Goldcrests, Blackcap, White Wagtail, 10 Yellow Wagtails, 2 Chiffchaffs, 5 House Martins, 3 Swallows, a very pale Common Buzzard, Great White Egret, Marsh Harrier, Red Throated Diver and 2 Cettis Warblers. Around mid-day the rain came in and all hope of insect activity was gone.
SUNDAY 14TH APRIL 2013.
A better day forecast so it was bucket and spades to Margate. Well actually nature watching around the Margate area which can be surprising good at migration times and away from the holiday crowds. We did see butterflies, in fact 8 Small Tortoiseshells and 2 Peacocks, but none stayed still long enough to photograph.
Bird life was quiet with only 3 Swallows, 2 Tree Pipits, 4 Goldcrests, 4 Ring Neck Parakeets, 1 Yellow Wagtail and Sparrowhawk of note. Returning home we received a text informing us of a male Ringed Neck Duck on Conningbrook lakes (Ashford). So a little later we were enjoying distant views of this American duck. It always stayed on the far side of the lake with a group of 20 Tufted Ducks. 2 Swallows went though and headed West.
MONDAY 15 APRIL 2013.
Another reasonable day, so it had to include butterflies. Unfortunately we only managed to find one Small Tortoiseshell. However, we did see a Clouded Drab and 2 Setaceous Hebrew Character moths at Dungeness Bird Observatory. Nearby the bird life was not bad. 6 plus Firecrests, Chiffchaff, Black Redstart, 4 Wheatears, 5 Common Terns, 2 Porpoises, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, 3 Cettis Warblers, 2 Bearded Tits, Yellow Wagtail, Swallow, Great White Egret and Little Egret.
On the way we called in at Hamstreet to listen for early Nightingales but all was quiet. We did see good numbers of Primroses, Lesser Celandine and Wood
Anemones.
A good day out in the field.

Not a white in sight.
We have been seeing butterflies, but not one white. Red Admirals have also been scarce but Small Tortoiseshells have been in decent numbers. Species seen, Peacock, Comma, Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell.
TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2013.
Today was a local day, actually most of it in the garden. A Beefly visited the garden and 25 Waxwings flew over at 14.45 hours with their distinctive trilling call. The local Sparrowhawk put in two appearances. In the evening we visited Conningbrook Gravel Pits in the hope of seeing the Ringed Necked Duck again but the area and bank sides were full of fishermen. We took the view that too much disturbance was taking place and retreated for home, seeing 5 Sand Martins and 2 Swallows as we left.
WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013.
The previous day a number of Gargeney had been seen so today we caught up with this delightful summer duck. There was some discussion exactly how many were actually present hiding in the vegetation along Dengemarsh. Certainly two males and we believe 2 females, others thought one female, while some claimed 3 females. At least we all agreed 2 males, which is a little stunner and well worth the visit. A walk of the area produced Yellow Wagtail, 3 Swallows, Marsh Harrier, Bittern in flight, Little Egret, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Cettis Warbler. Another local informed us that on his visit to Conningbrook earlier to see the Ringed Neck Duck two Arctic Terns had flown in. Within a couple of hours we too were enjoying views of the 2 Arctic Terns as they caught insects off the waters surface. The Arctic Tern acts almost Swallow like as it hawks and dips over the waters surface, with its almost pure white wings and long forked tail. A scarce bird on inland waters in Kent. The male Ringed Necked Duck was still present, as was 7 Swallows, 2 Sand Martins, Wilow Warbler, Blackcap, 3 Small Tortoiseshells and a mobile Comma.
THURSDAY 18 APRIL 2013.
Today was almost gale like winds so we did not expect too much. A text was to change all that and a diversion to Lade Gravel Pits saw us enjoying prolonged, although too distant for photography, views of a ALPINE SWIFT. A real goodie for Kent and an unexpected treat. We watched it for nearly two hours and was usually accompanied by a Common Swift, our first of the year. Also present was 7 Sand Martins, 3 Swallows and 1 House martin. Surprisingly, considering the strength of the wind, we also saw 4 Small Tortoiseshells. The Great White and Little Egret remained on New Diggings, Dungeness.
SATURDAY 20 APRIL 2013.
We anticipated that Dungeness would be crowded today so opted for St Margarets instead. We enjoyed good views of two Peregrines as they hunted over the area, also saw 2 Common Buzzards and 3 Sparrowhawks. There was very limited migration going on with 4 Coal Tits, 20 Linnets, 3 Siskins and 8 Greenfinches all going north. We decided to get out of the relentless wind by going to the shelter of the Stour Valley at Stodmarsh. We saw our first Cuckoo plants of the year in flower, along with good numbers of Lesser Celandine. The usual birds were present including Bearded Tit and Cettis Warbler. We heard our first Nightingale of the year and enjoyed views of 3 Peacock butterflies.
Not a bad period of wildlife watching.

Whites at Last.
SUNDAY 21 APRIL 2013.
A local day visiting Chilham and Eastwell did not produce much except for 5 Peacocks and 2 Small Tortoiseshells.
MONDAY 22 APRIL 2013.
It looked good for Dungeness but in the event little new was seen. The usual Great White and Little Egret on ARC pit, with 5 Swallows, Blackcap and many Sedge Warblers being the best. We called in at Hamstreet on the way home and saw 4 Nightingales and the usual woodland birds.
TUESDAY 23 APRIL 2013.
Whites at last. We started at Grove Ferry seeing 2 Common Buzzards, 6 Marsh Harriers, 3 Hobby's, many Sedge with a few Reed Warblers, 2 Black Tailed Godwits, Bearded Tit, 3 Cettis Warblers, Blackcap, Nightingale, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat and 6 Swallows. Butterflies were represented by 7 Peacocks and 2 Small Tortoiseshells. On to Stodmarsh were we saw 2 Large Whites and 1 Green Veined White, together with another Hobby and the same species of birds as at Grove Ferry.
WEDNESDAY 24 APRIL 2013.
Our first visit of the year to Wye NNR and what a surprise. Part of the Devils Kneading Bowl down to Brook has been fenced off, including barbed wire top. Apparently the reason is to graze cattle to remove the encroaching scrub. A good idea on the face of it but the area enclosed also happens to contain the best bit for Chalkhill Blues, Adonis Blue and Autumn Gentian. Not sure if they will put in any stiles to allow access, otherwise it is a case of patience for a year or two. The species will still be viewable from the footpath, but its not the same as walking amongst them. Anyway we still had a good day with our first sighting of the year for Green Hairstreak and Brimstone. We also saw several Peacocks and it was nice to see the Cowslips coming out.
Back to Hamstreet for another go for butterflies. All we could muster was 4 Peacock and a Small Tortoiseshell. Nightingale numbers had increased to 7 and 3
Willow Warblers were singing.
THURSDAY 25 APRIL 2013.
Another good day in the field. We started at Grove Ferry where the CATTLE EGRET was showing from Harrision Drove hide, along with 2 Little Egrets. 2 Hobby's were catching insects, 3 Marsh Harriers were displaying and a Common Buzzard kept circling. 2 Greenshank flew in, as did a Green Sandpiper. Other birds seen included Lesser Whitethroat, Nightingale, Blackcap, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, Bearded Tit, Swallow and our first Cuckoo of the year kept calling. Surprisingly we only saw 2 Peacocks and a Small Tortoiseshell.
We had been informed that a Wood Sandpiper was showing from the Reedbed Hide at Stodmarsh. A wader looked interesting laying down and well hidden in amongst vegetation, however when it eventually moved it clearly was a Green Sandpiper. The Wood Sand had moved on and we were out of luck. A water Rail called nearby, 2 Nightingales sung their heart out and several Willow Warblers made their presence known. 2 Common Buzzards and 4 Marsh Harriers were displaying. Butterflies were 2 Green Veined Whites, 4 Peacocks and a Small Tortoiseshell.
Going back via Littlebourne we saw many Bluebells in flower and our first 2 Small Whites of the year.
It's getting better.

What a strange weekend of wildlife watching. Saturday was dull and cold but very exciting. Sunday was warmer and sunnier but a lot quieter. Saturday we saw no butterflies. Sunday just a few. Spring is still a very mixed bag, with everything seeming about 2-3 weeks behind the last few years, which in themselves were a bit early.
SATURDAY 27 APRIL 2013.
Dull and with a cold wind. It had to be Dungeness. We checked a few places on the way down without anything of note and then arrived at the Causeway separating the ARC pit and New Diggings. We noticed a few locals looking skywards, always a good sign. Especially as the group included the Observatory Warden and Team. Within seconds we had received a phone call from one of the watchers, (thank you), to say look towards the Visitor Centre as a RED RUMPED SWALLOW was flying around in with a big group containing Swallows, House Martins, Sand Martins and 5 Swifts. Everything was too high for a positive identification but 15 minutes later saw us at the first hide to join a group of about 12 others looking skywards. A regular visitor suddenly said I have got it in the scope and its flying straight towards us. Indeed it was, and straight over our heads. Over the next hour we saw it on 3 occasions. Most of a visiting Coach load of birders also managed to connect with it. The group of Swallows and Martins stayed in the area for most of the day catching what insects were on the wing and refueling after their long migration ordeal, although the group covered a large area.
The Dungeness area produced Peregrine, 2 Ravens, Spotted Redshank, 3 Marsh Harriers, Wood Sandpiper, Whimbrel, Common Tern, Bittern booming, Yellow Wagtail, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, Cetti's Warbler, 2 Great White Egrets and Little Egret. Nearby on Scotney we watched a Long Tailed Duck. We failed to see the Greenshank on Dengemarsh, as seen by many others. Considering the excellent bird life on offer it was disappointing not to see any butterflies but the weather was really against it.
SUNDAY 28 APRIL 2013.
Dungeness again, but a complete change in fortunes. The Long Tailed Duck was still present, as was one of the Ravens, otherwise it was back to the normal. However we did start to see several butterflies whose numbers were further enhanced when we called in at Hamstreet on the way home. We ended the day on 2 Peacock, 2 Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and 3 male Brimstones.
The nights have been much too cold to consider putting out our moth trap. Hopefully much warmer and better days ahead.

A mixed week. Some days bright and sunny, other days dull and cloudy.
MONDAY 29 APRIL 2013.
A quick search of Hamstreet in less than ideal conditions did produce 2 Peacocks, Brimstone, Large White and 2 Small Tortoiseshells. Looking good for the days ahead. We then went on to Pett Level but it was very quiet. No butterflies and only Common Buzzard, 10 Swallows, Whimbrel, 2 Med Gulls and a Little Egret of any note.
TUESDAY 30 APRIL 2013.
Sunny, but a cold wind only produced 4 Peacocks at Grove Ferry. Bird wise it was quiet, although it was nice to see our first 2 Turtle Doves of the year. This is quite a scarce bird now in Kent compared to twenty years ago and I can't see the situation improving in the near future. Otherwise it was what you expect at Grove Ferry, namely Reed and Sedge Warblers with a few Cetti's Warblers.
WEDNESDAY 01 MAY 2013.
It was a warm start so straight to Hamstreet where a 2 hour search produced 23 Brimstones, 4 Peacocks, 2 Orange Tips and Holly Blue. The birds were also enjoying the warmth, with 7 Nightingales, 4 Willow Warblers, 4 Nuthatches and many Blackcaps singing.
We then spent the next few hours touring the Appledore/ Rye/ Camber area hoping to bump into yesterdays Black Kite seen South of Appledore. It was to no avail, and only one Common Buzzard was seen. On the way home we called in at Scotney Pit where the Long Tailed Duck was still present, back on its regular place on the bank.
THURSDAY 02 MAY 2013.
We toured the Hamstreet Wood complex but failed to see any butterflies. We did have a Shoulder Strip moth in the garden. A new garden record for us.
FRIDAY 03 MAY 2013.
A visit to Wye NR in seemingly ideal conditions was disappointing as it only produced 4 Green Hairstreaks, 2 Brimstones, Small White and 2 Peacocks. We saw 2 Orange Tips near Godmersham and our first Speckled Woods (4) of the year at Chilham, along with a Holly Blue and 2 Peacocks.
SATURDAY 04 MAY 2013.
The Early Spider Orchids are usually out at Samphire Hoe for the May day Bank Holiday so it was with some enthusiasm that we headed there. What a disappointment. Instead of thousands we only found 4 in some sort of flower, although many more should be flowering by next weekend. We spoke to the warden who believes that number will be low and very late this year. We saw 2 Ravens, a Peregrine almost catching a Pigeon, and one Shag on the sea just off the concrete apron. Not one butterfly before the rain came in early afternoon.

What a mixed week of weather.
Warm, sunshine, thick fog, rain, cloudy, windy (with a cold chill). The only thing we have missed is Snow, and I won't push my luck.
SUNDAY 05 MAY 2013.
This was a warm day and this was reflected in the butterfly count. We started at Hamstreet woods noting 28 Brimstones, 5 Orange Tips, 6 Peacocks, Comma and Small Tortoiseshell. 5 Nightingales were singing, as was several Blackcaps and Willow Warblers.
We ended the day in the Warehorne / Appledore area noting 3 Orange Tips, 5 Peacocks, Holly Blue and Brimstone. Birds seen included 2 Common Buzzards, 8 Swallows, Cuckoo and 4 Tree Sparrows.
BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 6TH MAY 2013.
We arrived at Dungeness, well we think it was Dungeness, the sea fog was so thick we struggled to see the sea let alone any birds. Inland the visibility was better and we recorded 3 Bar Tailed Godwits, 1 Whimbrel and 2 Little Egrets on the ARC pit, with 2 Whimbrel along Dengemarsh Road. Appledore was clear and sunny allowing views of 2 Common Buzzards and 8 Yellow Wagtails. Hamstreet Woods was even warmer allowing 32 Brimstones, 8 Orange Tips, 5 Peacocks, Holly Blue and a number of Large and Small Whites to be noted.
TUESDAY 07 MAY 2013.
It was very pleasant as we arrived at Dungeness sea watching hide. A 2 hour sea watch saw one Pomarine Skua (10.15 hours), 2 Black Throated Divers, 5 Diver Sp, 5 Little Terns, 3 Black Terns, 30 Bar Tailed Godwits, 12 Knot, 300 plus Commic Terns, 25 Sandwich Terns, 35 Gannets, 55 Common Scoter, Fulmar and 3 Harbour Porpoise. Also seen in the area was Stonechat, Wheatear, Litlte Egret and a fine Puss Moth at the observatory.
We had one Holly Blue in the garden and our first returning local Swift over the garden (about a week later than most years).
WEDNESDAY it rained on and off all day so a day of catch up in the garden.
THURSDAY 09 MAY 2013.
A day of strong SW winds. Even Dungeness was struggling. We did see 4 Arctic Skuas, 1 Black Throated Diver, 75 Commic Terns, 5 Sandwich Terns, 50 plus Gannets, 15 Common Scoter, 1 Diver Sp. 1 Black Tern and 4 Auks. The entrance track to the Observatory had a nice showing of Early Purple Orchids. This year most have been protected by cages to prevent the local rabbits from enjoying a tasty snack, with the result that over one hundred have flowered.
Next was Scotney gravel pits where a Bar Tailed Godwit, 6 Common Terns and 5 Ringed PLovers were in residence. We did see a Small White at Hamstreet, but that was it on the butterfly front.
FRIDAY 10 MAY 2013.
A local day saw 120 Swifts and 75 House Martins on a gravel pit. One Large White and one Lady Orchid at Wye NNR. The sun came out briefly when we visited Eastwell and encouraged 4 Orange Tips and 2 Small Whites to fly. The Cuckoo plants were still in good condition, as was Lesser Celandine and Primrose.
SATURDAY 11 MAY 2013.
A really windy day, but a surprisingly good one thanks to our good friend at Ruckinge and the local team at Dungeness. First we had a text from Ruckinge to inform us that both Swallow Prominent and Lesser Swallow Prominent had been caught overnight. Within an hour we were looking at both, supported by Lunar Brown Marbled. The difference between the Prominents is subtle, but the attached photo shows the white wedge on the wing of Lesser.
Whilst there we had a message to say that a Pectoral Sandpiper was showing on Dengemarsh. A little while later we were watching this North American wader as it feed on Hay field No3. It proved hard to photograph in the very strong, almost gale strength wind. This is almost an annual bird at Dungeness, although spring records are unusual. It was supported by a fine Dunlin, 2 Hobbys, 12 Common Terns, Raven, Yellow Wagtail, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat and several Linnets. We ended the day on Walland Marsh seeing 5 Whimbrel and 2 Turtle Doves and just 2 butterflies, both Small Whites.
A really good day but with such a cold strong wind butterflies were hard to come by.

Yet another week of mixed weather.
The one decent day this week, yesterday, we had already planned something else. So we missed an opportunity to catch up with butterflies, in particular Dingy Skipper. We did see a few in the garden, namely Holly Blue, Orange Tip, 2 Large Whites and a Small White. We also caught a moth in the form of Garden Carpet.
This week has mainly been about going to and from Dungeness. Five times in total, with four being to try and see the very elusive Green Winged Teal. Of course we missed it each time, and to be honest not seeing too much else to compensate. The only butterfly we have seen there is Large White. We have also missed the emergence of Hairy Dragonflies. A few have been seen, but the lack of numbers could be down to the three Hobbys that are patrolling the area. At least one bird has been seen devouring a dragonfly. A few flowers are now emerging, especially Sea Campion.
I won't list all the sightings but the highlights have been, a male Gargeney, 2 male and one female Scaup, Raven, 2 Little Egrets, Raven, 3 Hobbys, and very good numbers of Swifts, House Martins and Swallows.
It would have been only four visits to Dungeness as today we were checking local areas, when we received several messages (thanks everybody) that a male Red Spotted Bluethroat was showing at the fishing boats. Within the hour we were watching a fine male BLUETHROAT just off the concrete road on the approach to the fishing boats and its collections of nets and baskets. Not our first for Dungeness but still an attractive and sought after bird. A good collection of locals also took this view as many were present to witness the star bird. At sea we saw 1 Arctic Skua, 4 Harbour Porpoise, a good number of Sandwich and Commic Terns, whilst the area produced 2 Wheatears and over 100 Swifts. Sadly not one butterfly, well it was only 11 degrees.
Finally, we have noted the return of our winter Coal Tit in the last two days. We have never had a summer record before. Not sure what this means, but I imagine it is not breeding at present, possibly due to the poor weather.

A Weekend of Highs and Lows.
Any member with an interest in Birds will probably be aware that Kent had a Mega on Saturday. We awoke Saturday morning in no hurry and got ready to go out nature watching about 09.00 hours. When working and On Call I used to leave the mobile on 24/07. One of the advantages of retirement is being able to turn the phone off and get a good nights rest. So when turning on the phone and receiving a message to say the Dusky Thrush is still present we were taken aback. There had been no messages when I turned it off at 22.00 hours, but at 23.15 hours news broke of a Female DUSKY THRUSH at Margate. There was no point in panicing now as the hoardes would already be there, parking at a premium, and all the tall people at the front restricting our view. Indeed, by all accounts, there was over 200 people there by 07.00 hours (clearly a lot of birders keep their phone on all the time).
We arrived just after 10.00 hours to find cars all down the road, however, someone had just left as we drove up, so parking taken care off. Next we walked into the old part of the cementry to find hundreds of birders looking into a group of trees. There it was, not the best of views with branches in the way, and certainly no photographs possible, but all the features seen if you moved about for a few metres. A kind birder even that us look through his telescope already set on the bird. A first twitchable one since 1959, so all the top birders needed it and were present, or had been and left. We waited another hour and a half but it never came fully out into the open, or on the ground, during our visit. With one or two exceptions everyone was well behaved, and usually quiet, respecting the place we were in.
Next was Reculver where every one was hoping to see the Ringtail Montagues Harrier. It failed to show in the time we were present but we took the opportunity to look for Dragonflies and Butterflies. Despite the increasing warmth we only saw 4 Peacocks, 11 Large Whites and a Hairy Dragonfly.
At a site in East Kent we searched for Man Orchid but without any joy. Perhaps a couple of weeks too early. Arriving home the sun got stronger encouraging a Speckled Wood, Holly Blue and Small White to visit the garden.
SUNDAY 19 May 2013.
We arrived at Dungeness with the intention of looking for Grizzled Skipper, but it was overcast, misty and cold. No chance of insect activity despite the good weather further West. Dungeness was very quiet bird wise, not even a Hobby to be found. A search of the Warehorne area only found Large White, Turtle Dove and a singing Cettis Warbler. Of course as we arrived home the sun broke through, but there was still a cold wind and the only butterflies seen were Large White, Small White and Holly Blue.
The Grizzled Skipper and Dukes will have to wait until the next warm day.

Its the end of May. Its 5 degrees.
Yes, its near the end of May and it really was 5 degrees at 11.30 hours here in our part of Kent. We were on Romney Marsh and as a rain cloud opened we watched the temperature plummet from 10 degrees to 5 degrees over 15 minutes. For a few moments we had some sleet within the rain. Obviously no insect activity today.
TUESDAY 21 MAY 2013.
Dull and cold, dull and cold, need I say more. Not a insect in sight except for St. Mark Flies being cobbled up by the hungry Swifts and Swallows. Dungeness was really quiet although the CATTLE EGRET was still present along the RSPB entrance track. A Marsh Harrier braved the elements, 100 plus Swifts and Swallows were trying to feed by flying low over vegetation. A Tree Sparrow was singing along the entrance track. Sedge & Reed Warblers were also singing, as was a Cettis Warbler. The only other item of note was 10 House Martins feeding near Lydd and a number of Yellowhammers on Walland Marsh.
WEDNESDAY 22 MAY 2013.
Cold again. Today we called in at Marden Meadow. A nature reserve between Marden and Staplehurst famous for its Green Winged Orchids. We were not disappointed with very large numbers in flower spread over the three fields that form the reserve. Too many to count, but at least 5,000. A very welcome sight after such a long and cold winter. We also found one white one and 20 pink ones in amongst the thousands.
We were on our way home when we received the news of a 1st Summer BONAPARTES GULL at Oare Marshes. About an hour later we arrived to find only 3 other people there. This American Gull is still a very scarce bird in Kent so a bit surprising more birders were not present. It had moved to nearby Faversham Creek and was on the far bank so only record photos taken. Clearly a bit smaller than the 5 Black Headed Gulls it seemed to be associating with. Also the dark or black bill was obvious. Had we seen it in flight like the earlier birders a dark trailing edge to the wings would been seen. Also present was 2 Little Egrets, 20 Black Tailed Godwits, 25 Swifts and a Cettis Warbler.
It was still too cold for insect activity, but in the evening the sun came out and a local birder also saw a Male Emperor Moth. We have never seen one and is very much on our like to see list. Every year one of two are seen on the Swale Estuary or Thanet Coast, but in all our years of Nature Watching this species has eluded us. We have even tried Ashdown Forest without luck. Hopefully one day our luck will be in.

A mixed bag.
FRIDAY 24 MAY 2013.
Pouring down today. No chance of anything, or so I thought. It was so bad we actually went shopping and undertook household duties. Just before midday we received a message from friends at Dungeness. The Red Rumped Swallow had been showing on and off, and better still, the Bee-eater had been relocated. That was enough to get us out, rain or no rain. The rain had not really started when we got to Dungeness, and although it was dull and misty we joined the small crowd watching the Bee-eater sitting in a bush. Although the light was poor I managed to get a record photo. Next was the ARC pit but despite looking for an hour or so we failed to connect with the Red Rumped Swallow. The distant clouds looked black so it was time to get home before the deluge.
SATURDAY 25 MAY 2013.
We checked Dungeness again but no sign of the Swallow this morning. In a sheltered spot we found 16 Blue Tailed Damselflies but little else.
SUNDAY 26 MAY 2013.
Forecast warm and sunny with a light wind. Time for butterflies. Bonsai Bank was our destination and we were relieved to find 5 Duke of Burgundy and 1 Dingy Skipper. Friends we met there had seen 6 Dukes, but this a low number and not a good reward for all the hard maintenance work that has been undertaken on site.The poor spring seems to have taken its toll. Other butterflies seen, 11 Orange Tips, Speckled Wood, 25 Large Whites, 12 Small Whites and a Speckled Yellow moth. There was a good showing of Lady Orchid and Early Purples plus 1 White Helliborine. It was also nice to hear a Willow Warbler singing, one of our favourite singers.
MONDAY 27 MAY 2013
Not quite so warm as yesterday but following a tip off from a friend we visited Faggs Wood (Hamstreet) to find 2 Grizzled Skippers present. Also 11 Brimstones,
8 Orange Tips and many Large & Small Whites. A Nightingale sang, as did 4 Willow Warblers, and 3 Common Buzzards flew around. A really good end to the Bank Holiday weekend.
Dave

WARMTH AT LAST.
Yesterday was a really nice day, but before that we endured another cold and damp day. On Wednesday we visited Wye NNR but with little chance of any butterflies (it was only 11 degrees). We did see one Clouded Bordered moth but not a single butterfly. We checked an area where about 7 years ago 3 Burnt Tip Orchids flowered. They have not been seen since, and as far as I am aware none have been reported in Kent during the same period. We worry about losing Butterflies or other animals but plants are also suffering. Its looking increasing likely that Kent has lost Burnt Tip Orchid from its last two locations. We found a group of Broomrape which I have yet to identify. Later we called in at a site near Faversham where many White Helleborines were still at least a week away from flowering.
FRIDAY 31 MAY 2013.
The day started quite dull and grey so we started at Oare Marshes. The 1st Summer Bonapartes Gull was on the East Flood, 2 Med Gulls flew around calling for some time. The flood also held 2 Avocets, 3 Common Terns, 75 Swallows, 100 plus Swifts, 8 Black Tailed Godwits, Cettis Warbler and 2 Marsh Harriers. The only butterfly seen was a Peacock. Then the sun came out. Time to visit Wye NNR for butterflies. Nothing brilliant, but so nice to see butterflies flying in the sun. We ended the afternoon on 3 Dingy Skipper, 4 Brimstones (they are around very late this year), 8 Orange Tips, 2 Common Blues, Holly Blue, Peacock, Speckled Wood, many Large and Small Whites. Most of the 8 Lady Orchids were going over but one was still in good condition.
When we got home a Hobby flew over the garden and circled for about 5 minutes.
SATURDAY 01 JUNE 2013.
It started sunny and quite warm but by mid-day the cloud came over and it dropped to 13 degrees. We started at Yocklets Bank seeing many Lady Orchids and 3 Fly Orchids. A Brimstone and 3 Large Whites were the only butterflies. We bumped into a good friend from Dartford who confirmed that his garden moth trapping was also poor, so its not just East Kent. Whilst together as a group we found a Slow Worm and he also saw a Broad Bodied Chaser.
Next stop was Parkgate where a count of the Monkey Orchid found 110 plants, but very few in flower. Probably another week yet before a good showing. A Fly Orchid was a good find here, one Lady Orchid looked lonely, but all the Common Spotted Orchids and Common Twayblade were only just coming through. Despite the weather turning for the worse we did see 3 Green Hairstreaks, 3 Dingy Skippers, and nearby, 2 Silver Y's, Speckled Wood and 10 Large Whites.
Our final stop was at an undisclosed site for Man Orchid where 21 plants were still at least a week away from flowering.
With little chance of any more butterflies it was time to call it a day. I will add a few photos later in the week.

Incidentally, both Yocklets Bank and Parkgate are well documented, with species details in the public domain. The Wildlife Trust just asks that people watch where they are walking and not to trample vegetation.

A SMALL BLUE DAY.
SUNDAY 02 JUNE 2013
Following a tip off from Hoggers (many thanks) and a trawl through the old memory brain today we visited 2 sites in East Kent for Small Blue. The first was an old site on the Dover Western Heights overlooking the Railway Station. The butterflies are just across the road from the small car park making this an easy site for those who have dodgy knees or find walking difficult. We saw 8 Small Blues in our 45 minute visit, along with 3 Dingy Skippers and a very small moth called Small Purple-barred. Next was a visit to a site near Kingsdown (Deal) where some building work is taking place next door. This proved good for butterflies with 25 Small Blues, 4 Small Coppers, 3 Dingy Skippers and 5 Common Blues. The journey to and fro also provided 8 Orange Tips with many Large and Small Whites.
Today the weather was warm and it tempted out many folk. Hopefully this warm spell will continue.
I have attached some photos from the last few days.

Clear Blue Skies.
But that has not helped the temperatures here in East Kent as over the last week we have suffered from very cold North Easterlies. It got to 17 degrees one afternoon but most days its been between 12 and 15 degrees. The wind has not only been cold but its been very strong. Not ideal for insect activity, although by searching sites protected from the wind we have managed a few goodies.
MONDAY 03 JUNE 2013.
Today we went to Oare Marsh to follow up a couple of recent reports of Emperor Moth. Despite much optimism and searching we failed to see this magnificent moth. Another year passes without us seeing one. The 1st Summer Bonaparte's Gull was still present on the East Flood, as was 4 Bearded Tits, 3 Cettis Warblers, 30 Black Tailed Godwits and 10 Little Egrets. No butterflies.
TUESDAY 04 JUNE 2013.
We arrived at Dungeness not expecting too much, and that turned out to be the case. The best being an Adult Med Gull, Marsh Harrier and Cetti's Warbler. We then visited Lade to view the group of 50 Southern Marsh Orchids. They were just starting to go over but a few remained in good condition. On the butterfly front all we could manage was 5 Common Blues and several Large Whites.
THURSDAY 06 JUNE 2013.
Still a strong cold wind although we found a sheltered spot on the Wye NNR and saw our first Wall Brown of the year. 2 Common Blues, Dingy Skipper, Brimstone, Orange Tip, Small White and Large White made up the butterfly numbers. It seems so strange seeing Brimstone and Orange Tip so well into June.
FRIDAY 07 JUNE 2013.
Today we visited Beckley Wood (East Sussex) to see if any Grizzled Skippers were still out. We failed on this front but we did see 4 Dingy Skippers, Common Blue, Orange Tip, Brimstone and Large White. It was raining Speckled Yellow moths with at least 35 seen. Other insects included a Hornet, 2 Hairy Dragonflies, Large Red Damselfly, Four Spotted Chaser and Broad Bodied Chaser. Birds included Hobby, Sparrowhawk and Common Buzzard.
SATURDAY 08 JUNE 2013.
Today we ventured into East Sussex again. This time visiting Iden Moat. On the wing was 2 Downy Emerald, 6 White Legged Damselflies, Large Red Damselfly, 7 Azure Damselflies, Hairy Dragonfly and 2 Four Spotted Chasers. Butterflies were again thin on the ground with only one Common Blue, 2 Small Whites and 4 Large Whites. A Hobby flew over so I hope the Emeralds kept low.
We ended the day checking Hamstreet Woods. Again we found a late Orange Tip, one Grizzled Skipper, 4 Speckled Yellow moths and 3 Common Spotted Orchids. 3 presumed unmated Nightingales were still singing away (at this time of the year mated males usually only sing early morning and evening).

More cold strong winds are forecast in East Kent for tomorrow. It's getting boring.