Bardsey's Wildlife

2026-04-08T22:49:00.036+01:00

A flat calm, hot day and following a night of Easterlies, the first notable day of Spring arrivals. A light south‑westerly wind at force two with good visibility during the morning and evening, although moderate sea mist covered the island between 13:00 and 15:00. No rain was recorded, and the temperature reached 15 °C.

The first guided walk of the year was led by Joel and Steve, setting the bar high with 17 guests attending. Despite the sea mist, plenty wildlife could be enjoyed and several migrant moths and butterflies were seen.

Once the fog cleared it was a nice afternoon, very warm!

Guided walk members after seeing the Lichen assemblage and Golden-hair Lichen

Looking north along the East Side from Pen Cristin © Steven Stansfield

Good numbers of Lepidoptera were recorded for such an early Spring day. A Large White was at Tŷ Pellaf. Elsewhere four Red Admirals, five Small Tortoiseshells and a Painted Lady were seen. Peacocks reached ten across the island and a Speckled Wood was in Cristin Garden. Sixteen Rush Veneers were seen and two Silver Ys, fresh in from further South. Four Diamond‑back Moths were at Pen Cristin during the guided walk. Sadly today Ezra had to say goodbye to the two Small Tortoiseshells hibernating in the LSA which he had become quite fond of, we wish them well on their adventure.

Gannets totalled eight along the West Coast, with seven moving south and one north. Six Shelducks were seen between the two beaches. 11 Mallards were recorded today and the two Gadwalls were again on Pwll Cain.

Raptors included one female Sparrowhawk at the Observatory, a Merlin at the South End, and a Peregrine at Nant.

Only 17 Oystercatchers were noted today. Other waders included, two Whimbrels were at the Narrows, and a Curlew on the West Coast.

Kittiwakes totalled 41, with 40 off the East Side and a single Sandwich Tern was seen off the West Coast from Cristin.

A single Collared Dove was at Tŷ Pellaf.

Another day of early Spring hirundine movement. Three Sand Martins flew North over the Narrows. 14 Swallows were seen moving through today, the majority of the birds flew north but four headed south over the Narrows. Five House Martins were seen including a pair hanging around the Lighthouse.

40 Meadow Pipits and three Rock Pipits were recorded. Pied Wagtails totalled three and White Wagtails two. 12 'alba' wagtails flew over, mostly heading North.

12 Dunnocks and eight Robins were present. 14 Stonechats and 12 Wheatears were recorded across the island. Ten Blackbirds were detected, a big change from two weeks ago when we could only detect ones or twos.

The first Grasshopper Warblers of the Spring arrived on the island with five different reeling birds, three in the Wetlands and two on the Mountain.

An all round great day for warblers with a massive increase across the whole island. Four Goldcrests, 21 Blackcaps, 53 Chiffchaffs and 74 Willow Warblers giving a grand total of 157 warblers across the island. Of these 65 birds were trapped and ringed, including 33 Willow Warblers, 20 Chiffchaff and 11 Blackcaps.

Modest finch numbers today with five Chaffinches, 12 Goldfinches and 47 Linnet recorded. 14 Siskins and a Lesser Redpoll moved around the island throughout the morning with birds occasionally dropping in briefly.

2026-04-07T22:43:00.042+01:00

A lovely warm spring day following light easterly wind at force four, as expected with these conditions, a good number of migrants around. Visibility remained good, with no precipitation recorded, the temperature reached 18°C.

Emma, with help from Fiona and Andy (Obs regulars, who are staying at Plas this year with family) set about cleaning and stocking the gift shop today.

Get the place clean

check the stock

and work into the small hours

Getting it ready for day visitors tomorrow

New style mugs

Free Morse Bags from Fiona!

A good number of butterflies were seen around the island today with three Red Admirals, a Painted Lady and a Peacock, all split between Cristin and Nant.

Painted Lady at Nant © Joel Tragen

Again a single Fulmar was off the South End, a Manx Shearwater was along the West Coast and Gannets totalled six. Eight Cormorants and 23 Shags were seen around the coast with an immature Shag in Henllwyn.

A Grey Heron was at Pwll Cain. Again the usual four Shelducks were seen between the beaches. Mallards numbered six and the Gadwall pair favoured Pwll Cain once more. Five Moorhens were seen in the regular locations.

Raptors included one adult male Sparrowhawk in the Plas withy, a large female Merlin was seen over the Mountain heading over Ty Nessaf and down towards the West Coast. An immature male Peregrine was seen at the South End.

Only one Snipe was flushed in the Wetlands and a Redshank was along the West Coast. Oystercatchers totalled 108, with no large flocks today.

Three Black‑headed Gulls and two Kittiwakes were seen passing the South End. Two Sandwich Terns were seen fishing briefly in Solfach. A small flock of large larus were seen feeding in the North-west Fields in the evening, this included three Lesser Black‑backed Gulls and seven Herring Gulls.

A single Guillemot was along the West Coast, whereas Razorbills reached ten across the North End and South End. Five Puffins were on the East Side from the Mountain by the guests.

A bit of hirundine movement was nice with seven Sand Martins, seven Swallows, three House Martins flew through, all moving North.

A big Meadow Pipit day with 100 being seen, including 69 at the South End. Rock Pipits totalled eleven, and Pied Wagtails seven, with two White Wagtails at Nant. Twelve ‘alba’ wagtails moved north over the island.

Dunnocks reached 15 but only one Robin was detected, on the West Coast. Stonechats totalled seven, including pairs at the Wetlands and the South End, and single males at Tŷ Pellaf and the Mountain. 32 Wheatears were recorded, with 20 at the South End. This is the highest Wheatear count of the Spring so far. Seven Blackbirds were seen, mostly being singing males but a couple females were also seen.

The best day for warblers so far but still only modest numbers recorded, with 13 Blackcaps, 34 Chiffchaffs and 23 Willow Warblers.

Three Chaffinches continued to stay on the island and only ten Goldfinches were present. Three Siskins and a Redpoll were heard over. Linnets were numerous, totalling 94, with a good mixture of grounded birds and other moving through the island. A single Reed Bunting was in the Wetlands.

2026-04-06T17:39:00.000+01:00

Conditions were much improved after the stormy weekend, with a south‑easterly breeze force four, slight seas and good visibility. With temperatures rising to 13°C, the island felt noticeably calmer and more spring‑like.

Grey Seal numbers were exceptionally high, with 102 hauled out at Henllwyn, 63 at Solfach, two around Carreg yr Henwy and three elsewhere, making for an impressive day around the coastline.

One of the largest counts of Grey Seals all year © Steven Stansfield

Butterfly activity increased in the warmer conditions, with two Small Tortoiseshells at the LSA, one Peacock and single records of Large White, Green‑veined White and Red Admiral. Two Green Tiger Beetles were also noted at Solfach.

At sea Gannets were moving with 19 logged. Shags numbered ten and three Cormorants were around Carreg yr Henwy. Two Kittiwakes also passed along the West Coast.

Wildfowl were well represented. Shelducks reached eight split between Henllwyn, Solfach and the Narrows. Mallards totalled six with birds at Pwll Cain and the Wetlands. A pair of Gadwall remained at Pwll Cain. Moorhens numbered five across several freshwater sites.

Raptors included two Sparrowhawks, a Merlin along the West Coast and a male Peregrine over the Mountain.

Oystercatchers totalled 80 across the island, with strong concentrations at Henllwyn and the South End. Two Whimbrels were at Carreg yr Henwy. Singles of Snipe and Common Sandpiper (the first of the year and seventh earliest ever for the island) was in the Wetlands and one Redshank remained at Solfach.

Woodpigeons remained numerous with 30 across the island. Meadow Pipits totalled 14, while Rock Pipits numbered eight. Wagtails were prominent, with seven Pied Wagtails, five White Wagtails and ten 'alba' wagtails moving through, many heading south.

Wrens were abundant with 42 logged. Dunnocks numbered ten and two Robins were present. Stonechats were widespread, totalling 14 across several habitats. Wheatears numbered seven with birds on the South End, Henllwyn and the Narrows. Five Blackbirds were also recorded.

Warblers continued to build strongly. Chiffchaffs reached 29, Willow Warblers increased to 11 and Blackcaps numbered ten. A single Firecrest was not present today, but one Goldcrest remained. A single Blue Tit was recorded at Nant.

There were 29 Magpies recorded along with 14 Choughs and 22 Carrion Crows, with two Ravens were seen along the West Coast.

One of 29 Magpies seen today © Steven Stansfield

Finches showed strong movement. Goldfinches reached 61, while Linnets totalled 54. Two Siskins were also noted.

2026-04-05T17:17:00.119+01:00

A windy but improving day with a strong south‑westerly breeze force 6 and a moderate sea state. Visibility was generally good and despite the fresh wind. The wind was still blowing gale force 8 at dawn, though conditions gradually eased through the day. By 3 pm lighter winds were noted and it finally felt as though things were beginning to settle and two hours later our guests were sitting in the bright sunshine on the terrace drinking tea and coffee.

The sea was still very rough at 10am © Steven Stansfield

Thanks to storm dave and the delay we managed to get all the rooms shipshape, and the Lodge was looking very smart indeed.

Lounge ready © Steven Stansfield

Library all tidy © Steven Stansfield

North Double © Steven Stansfield

South Double - hard to believe this room was such a mess only a few days ago © Steven Stansfield

Away from the work, census saw Grey Seal numbers at 56 hauled out at Henllwyn and two at Solfach.

Butterfly activity included two Small Tortoiseshells at the LSA, while moth interest was limited to a single Early Thorn at the Observatory.

Seawatching produced steady passage. Four Fulmars moved north past the South End. Manx Shearwaters were moving strongly, with 124 logged including 122 moving south during a one‑hour sea watch. Gannets were particularly numerous, with 52 heading south and 52 Kittiwakes also passed south. Auks included 11 Guillemots, 60 Razorbills and 59 auk sp., all moving south.

Cormorants numbered six across the coastline and eight Shags were split between the West Coast, Henllwyn and the South End.

Wildfowl included two Shelducks at Henllwyn. Mallards totalled nine with seven males at Pwll Cain and a pair on the Wetlands. The pair of Gadwall remained at Pwll Cain. Moorhens numbered five across several freshwater sites.

Raptors included a male Sparrowhawk at the Observatory and a Peregrine passing the South End.

A single Whimbrel passed the South End and five Turnstones were feeding at Henllwyn.

A Sandwich Tern was a highlight, moving north past the South End.

Woodpigeons remained widespread with 29 across the island.

Passerine movement continued steadily. Meadow Pipits totalled 55 and Rock Pipits numbered seven. Pied Wagtails were logged as two at the Observatory, while 'alba' wagtails numbered five moving overhead in both directions.

Stonechats numbered six and Wheatears totalled five across the island. Two Blackbirds were present.

Warblers included 12 Chiffchaffs, two Willow Warblers, five Blackcaps and three Goldcrests.

The single Blue Tit was still at Nant. Two Chaffinches battled the wind along with seven Goldfinches and 12 Linnets.

2026-04-04T10:55:00.114+01:00

A calm early morning turned into a very wet and blustery day with a seriously strong southerly severe storm force wind (f10, gusting f12) and a heavy sea state. Visibility was poor for much of the day and persistent rain during the afternoon and evening made conditions difficult. As darkness fell, the full brunt of Storm Dave hit, with gusts reaching 83mph! The island was being properly battered.

Storm Dave giving its all © Steven Stansfield

As a result out first guests of the season could not make the crossing as the wind and sea rapidly increased as the morning progressed. this gave us a bit of a break and we were able to carryon getting the Obs ready for their arrival. Emma however was still over in the Lodge working at getting the place ready, polishing and tidying until 1am!

Everything needs to be perfect by tomorrow afternoon

Despite the conditions, seabird movement was impressive. A passage of Manx Shearwaters took place along the West Coast, with 1,057 logged. Of these, 934 passed during one and a half hours of sea watching, with a further 123 resting in several small rafts. Seven Gannets moved through and eight Shags were recorded, mainly along the West Coast. Five Cormorants were also present.

Wildfowl included four Shelducks split between Henllwyn and Solfach. Mallards totalled 13, with the pair of Gadwalls again present at Pwll Cain. Moorhens numbered three between Pwll Cain, the Wetlands and the Withies.

Raptors included a Sparrowhawk at the Observatory, a Merlin hunting along the West Coast and a Peregrine at Nant.

Wader numbers remained respectable despite the weather. Oystercatchers totalled 117, with the majority gathered around the Narrows. A single Snipe was present at the Wetlands and two Redshanks were logged at Henllwyn.

Woodpigeon numbers reached 32, with the remains of the Collared Dove found, having fallen to a raptor. Passerine numbers were lower in the difficult conditions but still included good interest. Meadow Pipits totalled 39 across the island and Rock Pipits numbered four. Pied Wagtail was noted once and two 'alba' wagtails were seen, one at Nant and one at the Observatory. Only one Stonechat was seen though Wheatears were more numerous, with 12 logged across the island. Warblers continued to arrive steadily. Chiffchaff numbers rose to 17, while Willow Warblers increased to nine. Two Blackcaps were present and Goldcrests totalled 11 and the Blue Tit was recorded at Nant. Finches continued to move despite the weather: Goldfinches numbered 20, all moving south very low, while Linnets totalled 42, with many also moving south close to the ground. Two Siskins were logged.

2026-04-03T09:27:00.031+01:00

The 3rd was very blustery day with a strong south‑westerly wind force eight, a moderate sea state and generally murky visibility. Light rain fell at dawn and conditions remained unsettled throughout, although temperatures climbed to 12°C.

With Guests due within 24 hours it was all hands to the pumps following census. Cleaning and trying to get the work completed on the Obs. Joel and Ezra have done a great job in helping us get everything done. Emma carried on working late into the evening getting the beds tidies and all the place polished etc. on the north side. Steve spent the day finishing getting all the beds dressed, rooms cleaned on the south side and painting the rotten wall. Joel and Ezra began the final clean down of the Obs after Emma had done some training with them in the afternoon. Connor was pumping oil and generally helping tidy up. We were getting there!

The wall post dry-rot treatment and waiting for paint. ©Steven Stansfield

First coat of paint on © Steven Stansfield

In terms of non-fungi related wildlife (!) inverts remained scarce but included a single Small Tortoiseshell at the LSA hut. Day‑flying moths comprised one Early Thorn, one Common Quaker and a single Twenty‑plume Moth at the Observatory.

Offshore activity included one Fulmar and five Manx Shearwaters passing the South End. One Gannet moved through the Narrows and seven Shags were present around the coast. A single Great Black‑backed Gull, two Kittiwakes and two Guillemots were also noted offshore.

Wildfowl included four Shelducks split between Henllwyn and Solfach. Mallards totalled eight across several freshwater sites. The two Gadwall were present at Pwll Cain. Moorhens were logged at three sites.

Raptors were well represented despite the weather. Two Sparrowhawks were seen, along with a Buzzard at Nant and two Peregrines recorded around the Observatory.

Waders were dominated by Oystercatchers, which totalled 151, the majority gathered around the Narrows. Two Snipes were at the Wetlands. A single Curlew was logged along the West Coast and one Redshank remained at Solfach.

Gulls were present in larger numbers, with 218 Herring Gulls concentrated at Solfach, while eight Great Black‑backed Gulls were seen.

Woodpigeons were numerous again, totalling 29 across the island.

Passerine movement was noticeably reduced in the difficult conditions. Meadow Pipits totalled 20 and Rock Pipits 11. Three 'alba' Wagtails moved overhead. Only one Stonechat and one Wheatear were recorded and Blackbirds totalled three.

Warbler diversity remained low. Chiffchaffs dropped to six, with a single Willow Warbler also noted. One Blackcap was logged and Goldcrests numbered six.

The ringed Blue Tit was recorded at Nant. Nine Choughs gathered around the Observatory area, one Rook seen in the Observatory garden.

Finches were scarce, with just six Linnets logged.

2026-04-02T20:30:00.117+01:00

Yet another breezy day with a south‑westerly wind force four, a slight sea state and generally good visibility. Rain arrived later in the afternoon and evening, with temperatures reaching 9 C.

Work continued on the Lodge ahead of the imminent arrival of guests at the weekend. The wall was treated with anti-fungal liquid ready to be painted tomorrow.

This should do the trick ©Steven Stansfield

PPE overload looks like Aliens have landed ©Steven Stansfield

Moth activity included two Early Thorns and a single Common Quaker at the Observatory.

Four Manx Shearwaters were heard calling from burrows on the South End, a clear sign that the breeding season is getting under way. Four Shags were present between the South End and Henllwyn. The lone Grey Heron remained at the Narrows.

Wildfowl were well represented. Three Shelducks were at Henllwyn and Mallards totalled five between Pwll Cristin, Pwll Gareth and Ty Pellaf Pond. The female Gadwall was at Pwll Gareth, but no sign of the male today.

Raptors included one Sparrowhawk around the Observatory, two Buzzards and a Merlin at the South End.

Moorhens numbered five across the freshwater pools. A Water Rail was heard at Nant. Oystercatchers totalled 77, with 50 at Henllwyn and smaller numbers elsewhere.

A single Stock Dove was amongst the 24 Woodpigeons across the island and one Collared Dove at the Observatory. Two Long‑eared Owls, a male and female, were roosting together in gorse at Nant.

Meadow Pipits totalled 62 with birds moving in both directions across the island. Rock Pipits were scarce with just one at Tŷ Pellaf. Alba wagtails were conspicuous with 16 logged, many moving south.

Wrens were abundant with 41 counted, while Dunnocks numbered eight and Robins five. Stonechats totalled seven across several areas and four Wheatears were logged, mostly males. Blackbirds numbered five. The Blue Tit from yesterday arrived at the Observatory garden and made its way into a net.

Blue Tit © Steven Stansfield

Warblers remained a strong feature of the day. Chiffchaffs numbered 13, while Willow Warblers dropped to eight. A single Blackcap remained at Nant. Goldcrests totalled eight and two Firecrests were again seen around the Observatory.

Choughs numbered ten, mostly around the Mountain. A single Raven drifted between the Mountain and the Wetlands. Finches included eight Chaffinches, 30 Goldfinches, 22 Linnets and three Siskins.

2026-04-01T22:00:00.013+01:00

A blustery day with a steady westerly wind force four, a slight sea state and generally good visibility, although showers developed later in the afternoon. Temperatures reached 11°C.

Being April fools day, Ela and I cooked up a plan to trick Joel. With the help of Ai we produced a semi-realistic photo of a White Stork in the fields below Cristin. Ela then came to the Obs and said to Joel that she had seen a large Black and white Heron, with orange legs and beak and proceeded to show him this photo! We could not make the photo look really good or he would smell a rat, so we produced this awful image, for Ela to show him on her phone. The stork was a bit big, but it did the job. We had Joel for s short while anyway! Sorry Joel...

April Fool! White Stork - It's Massive! © Steven Stansfield and Nanno Bannana AI

Away from the tomfoolery, butterfly activity increased slightly with three Small Tortoiseshells and one Peacock seen, while moth interest included two Early Thorns at the Observatory.

The sea produced two Gannets passed the South End and nine Shags were scattered around the island. Five Cormorants were also logged.

A single Grey Heron remained at Pwll Gareth, beside an imaginary black and white 'heron'!

Wildfowl included six Shelducks divided between Henllwyn and Solfach and nine Mallards across Pwll Cristin, Pwll Gareth, the Wetlands and Solfach whilst the pair of Gadwall were still on Pwll Cain. Raptors were represented by two Sparrowhawks and a single Peregrine hunting around Nant.

Moorhens totalled five across the freshwater pools. Wader numbers were steady with Oystercatchers totalling 135. Two Snipes were at the Wetlands and two Whimbrels passed along the West Coast, with a single Curlew also there. A Green Sandpiper was another good record, in the Wetlands.

Gulls remained widespread with 88 Herring Gulls across the island and four Great Black‑backed Gulls. Two Kittiwakes passed the South End. Auks included one Guillemot, 21 Razorbills and a Puffin was also seen moving past the South End.

Woodpigeons were present in good numbers with 25 across the island.

Passerine movement continued at a steady pace. Meadow Pipits totalled 64 and Rock Pipits seven. Alba wagtails reached eight with birds dotted around Nant, the Wetlands, the Observatory and the South End. Pied Wagtails numbered just three.

Wrens were very evident with 34 across the island, while Dunnocks reached ten and two Robins were noted. Stonechats totalled ten including several pairs holding territory. Wheatears increased again to 11, and five Blackbirds were logged. A Blue Tit at Nant was the first of the year.

Warblers showed a marked increase. Chiffchaff numbers rose sharply to 32 with birds widely spread. Willow Warblers reached 15. Blackcaps numbered five and Goldcrests reached 14 and a single Firecrest remained at the Observatory.

Corvids were prominent with 38 Magpies and 28 Carrion Crows recorded. Chough numbers were strong again with 19 across the Mountain. Two Ravens were also seen.

Finches were well represented, with nine Chaffinches, Goldfinches reached 50, Linnets numbered 45, again showing active passage. A single Reed Bunting was recorded at the Wetlands.

Work continued on the Lodge, with and electric fan heater being used to dry out the very wet wall!

Trying to dry out the very wet wall before Dry rot treatment is applied

2026-03-31T22:37:00.044+01:00

A drop in the harsh Westerlies at force four, with excellent visibility and temperature remaining high at 13°C. Making for a very pleasant day of birding.

A warm and sunny day © Steven Stansfield

Joel and Ezra began working on the garden, getting it tamed before the guests arrived. Ezra on the mower and Joel on the strimmer, they began to hack back at the miniature jungle which had grown up over Winter. Steve continued the task of dressing bedrooms and cleaning, whilst Emma followed around getting all the beds pulled straight, polishing and dusting.

The south quad being dressed, more painting is still required around the door, a top coat for the whole wall once the stain block is dry © Steven Stansfield

Beds made, awaiting Emma's final touch © Steven Stansfield

The two Small Tortoiseshells remained hibernating in the LSA hut and two more were seen on the wing at Cristin, along with a Peacock. Inside Cristin, a Common Quaker was seen.

Seabirds were limited, with one Manx Shearwater off the South End and three Gannets were recorded. Three Cormorants and seven Shags were scattered around the coast. Two Sandwich Terns flew between Carreg yn Honwy and Solfach, fishing between the two and resting on the rocks. These were the first living Sandwich Terns recorded here this year.

Four Shelducks were present, with a pair on each beach. Mallards reached twelve and the Gadwall pair were at Pwll Cain.

Raptors included a Red Kite, a Peregrine and two Sparrowhawks seen at Cristin. A Merlin at the South End and another on the West Coast meant it was possible the Icelandic bird was seen today.

A Curlew and two Whimbrels were seen along the West Coast, two Redshanks at Solfach, and five Snipe were flushed in the Wetlands. Oystercatchers totalled 167.

An increase in Auks returning to the cliffs were seen today, with six Guillemots, 12 Razorbills and five Puffins seen flying up past Pencristin towards the colonies, along with 40 ‘auk sp.’.

The first House Martins were seen today with two seen flying north through the Wetlands from Crisitin.

Meadow Pipits totalled 56, with 23 being seen at the South End, and six Rock Pipits were seen between several sites. Pied Wagtails reached seven, and 19 ‘alba’ wagtails moved over the island throughout the day..

The warm and calm weather meant a high Dunnock count was achieved, with 18 seen across the island, the same was true with Robins with seven detected. Stonechats totalled eleven and Wheatears numbers remained consistent at seven. A female Blackbird was seen carrying nesting material at Ty Pellaf with four males seen elsewhere.

Dunnock with Flowering Currant as the backdrop © Joel Tragen

Warblers included two Blackcaps, twelve Chiffchaffs and four Willow Warblers, a noticeable increase compared with the rest of the week. Goldcrests numbered four, and the two Firecrests remained.

High numbers of corvids were seen today with 32 Magpies and 30 Carrion Crows. A large flock of 16 Choughs were seen over Crisitin.

Finches included seven Chaffinches, 42 Goldfinches, two Siskins and 35 Linnets. Included grounded Chaffinch and good Goldfinch passage.

This was the first day nets could be opened for the first time in a while. A total of 11 birds were trapped, including a Firecrest, one each of all the other warblers present and six finches (four Goldfinches and two Chaffinches).

Firecrest © Steven Stansfield

2026-03-30T22:32:00.029+01:00

A moderate Westerly wind at force five and a sea state of four persisted through the day. Visibility remained good, with no precipitation recorded. Temperatures rose to twelve, making it feel quite warm when sheltered from the wind. In the afternoon Joel and Ezra went to Nant, getting started on erecting the mist-nets there. Emma and Steve continued the work on the Lodge, whilst waiting for dry rot treatment to arrive on the boat.

Start by removing everything from the room, cleaning down from the ceiling to the floor, all around the edges, the skirtings, the walls, beds vacuumed and polished along with the drawers etc.

then the bedding put on, curtains out of storage and put up, and wait for Emma to come and polish and make the bed properly!

Then onto the quad for Joel and Ezra, cleaning and scrubbing everything

Seabirds were limited, with two Fulmars at the North End and six Manx Shearwaters off the South End. Around the coast nine Gannets, ten Shags, and six Cormorants with large concentrations off the South End.

Only two Shelducks were seen, at Henllwyn. Wildfowl included eight Mallards and the two Gadwalls were at Pwll Gareth.

Raptors comprised two Sparrowhawks and two Peregrines over Cristin.

On Solfach, three Whimbrels and two Redshanks were present. Other waders included, a Curlew at the South End, and six Turnstones at Henllwyn. Oystercatchers reached 170, with 111 on Henllwyn.

Kittiwakes totalled 59, with 58 of these moving north‑west off the South End first thing. A Guillemot and Puffin were also seen off the South End.

Swallows passage was light, with four moving north, one over Tŷ Pellaf and the rest over Cristin. Across the island there were 29 Meadow Pipits and six Rock Pipits. Pied Wagtails totalled four, and seven ‘alba’ wagtails moved north over Cristin.

Dunnocks numbered four, and Robins two. Three Stonechats were seen, all males. A slight increase of Wheatears, totalled nine, including four males and two females at the South End and three males on the Narrows. Four male Blackbirds were seen, one each at Cristin, the Wetlands, Nant, and Ty Nesaf.

Very few warblers were seen, Goldcrests reached six, with five at Nant. Two Firecrests were also at Nant. Only one Blackcap was recorded and it was trapped at Cristin. Chiffchaffs totalled four.

Three Rooks flew north over Nant and a lone Starling was in the Wetlands.

Finches included one Chaffinch and two Siskins in the South End gorse, 12 Goldfinches across the island, and 19 Linnets, with 13 at the South End.

2026-03-29T22:28:00.064+01:00

The island woke to a hard South‑Westerly, force seven, driving rain across the island and a sea state of five pushed spray and sea-foam up well over the West Coast and into the Wetlands.

Work on the Lodge continued... Steve discovered some rather unwanted dry rot in one of the Bedrooms after knocking a bit of paint off the wall. The paint lifted off like wallpaper leaving the mycelium of the dry rot visible. More scraping revealed more fingers of rot, and although not wanted, it was quite beautiful!

what began as a small patch of loose paint...

turned into a large patch

with these amazing sea weed-like fronds

and much of the wall had the paint removed.

Lots of extra work we didn't need!

now onto the other rooms

lots of damp stains covered using expensive stain-block paint

Still, it was a nice day outside!

Over on the West Coast, 19 Manx Shearwaters and three Gannets passed, an additional Gannet was seen off the South End. Shags were scattered in small groups, 12 in all, the largest group being six at the South End.

A lone Grey Heron was seen below Cristin on Pwll Gareth. Two Shelducks were seen on Henllwyn. The Gadwall pair remained on Pwll Cain with five Mallard seen across the Wetlands.

Raptors were thin but present: a female Sparrowhawk at nant, a female Merlin patrolled the South End in the morning, and the resident male Peregrine was seen over Cristin.

A good Oystercatcher count today, with 103 birds spread across Southern half of the island. A single Curlew was seen on Solfach.

The first Sandwich Tern of the year was recorded today in a less than traditional way. It was found predated next to the South End hide, presumably by the large immature female Peregrine which has taken up residence on the South End.

A single Swallow flew south over Cristin, as did two ‘alba’ wagtails, across the rest of the island 23 Meadow Pipits were present. Singles of Dunnock, Robin and Blackbird all noted at Cristin but not elsewhere, a rather poor count. Small numbers of Stonechats and Wheatears were seen with three of the former, including a pair on the South End, and four of the latter, two males at the South End and another two on the Narrows.

Warblers were thin on the ground: two Blackcaps at Cristin, five Chiffchaffs across the island, and a single Willow Warbler in the Withies. One each of Goldcrest and Firecrest were seen at Nant, flicking through the sheltered Conifers.

Finches were sparse, just two Goldfinches at Cristin and two Linnets at the South End.

2026-03-28T22:22:00.070+00:00

Another day of brisk offshore Westerlies today creating a slightly rougher sea than yesterday, with a sea state of 4. There was no rain today and temperatures reached 10 degrees celsius, making it feel really warm when out of the wind.

Today the focused shifted towards getting the shop ready, Ezra and Joel started by shifting the picnic benches to outside the front of the Observatory which allowed Ezra to sweep down the ceiling in the shop of all the cobwebs which built throughout the Winter. Joel finished up painting and deep cleaning the outhouses and then getting started on the Common Room. Steve spent some of the morning helping Gareth with the pipework and installation of the washing machine at Tŷ Pellaf, then he joined Emma to put the finishing touches together on the North Side bedrooms in the afternoon and then embark on the South side, which is still in an awful mess!

Cleaning and dressing the north quad bedroom © Steven Stansfield

beds made © Steven Stansfield

and finished... Emma just needs to do her final touches now! © Steven Stansfield

the south quad © Steven Stansfield

south landing scarped and ready to be painted © Steven Stansfield

Getting the longe ready © Steven Stansfield

Today let's introduce you to Ezra's flatmates; these two free-loaders aren’t paying any board but demand Ezra keeps the place nice and warm! Alas, these two critters may be much smaller than you were imagining and it is these two cheeky Small Tortoiseshell Butterflies who have taken up residence in the LSA hut and are continuing to hibernate until conditions improve. Interestingly, a Peacock was seen flying around the garden at Cristin so some butterflies have decided Winter is firmly up and are braving the brisk winds.

Despite the Westerlies, few seabirds were noted today with only two Manx Shearwaters being seen off the Narrows, three Gannets throughout the day and 22 Kittiwakes moving South. Five Guillemots were the only auks seen today. Two pairs of Shelduck were seen today, one each off the main beaches. The Gadwall pair remain, moving from Pwll Cain in the morning over to Tŷ Pellaf Pond.

Only the Immature male Sparrowhawk was seen today, on multiple occasions around Cristin and the Wetlands. The large Immature female Peregrine remained around the South End and the resident male was seen above Nant.

A single Curlew was heard moving north over the island after dark, otherwise 95 Oystercatchers were the only other Waders noted today.

Two Swallows flew North, one through Nant and the other past Cristin in the afternoon, not the first this year but after a week without any hirundines, they definitely brightened our day.

Eight Rock Pipits were recorded by Ezra between the South End and Henllwyn whilst between us we only recorded 43 Meadow Pipits. Two 'alba' wagtails were heard flying over too.

Six Wheatears were recorded in the Southern half of the island but no Stonechat were recorded anywhere on the island today. Only one Robin, one Blackbird and four Dunnocks were seen elsewhere.

Even fewer warbler numbers were recorded today, a Blackcap at Cristin along with a Chiffchaff and Goldcrest. Elsewhere another Goldcrest and three more Chiffchaff swere seen.

A definitely increase in finches with three Chaffinches including a pair at Nant. There were also nine Goldfinches and 39 Linnets, including 34 moving North past Cristin in two flocks.

Almost a sunset © Steven Stansfield

2026-03-27T22:12:00.041+00:00

A return to being blasted with Westerly winds after yesterday's stillness with winds reaching F6 South Westerly. Visibility remained good with a bit of rain in the early morning before drying up and temperatures managed to reach 11 degree celsius with full blue skies.

The day was spent preparing the Observatory for the guests. Joel spent the afternoon scraping and repainting the toilets whilst Ezra finished up painting the stairways. Steve and Emma moved onto finalising the bedrooms in the North Side of the Observatory in the afternoon having spent most of the morning servicing the Rayburn with help from Gareth. This included bleeding through clean Oil, after some water from a dirty barrel had got mixed in the the oil that Connor pumped into the tanks the day before!

Raburn fire-box all cleaned and serviced © Steven Stansfield

Today we were informed by former Assistant warden, Ed Betteridge, that an Icelandic Merlin had been tracked to the island back in October and remained around Uwchmynydd and Bardsey until the present day. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t locate the bird and the only Merlin regularly being seen lacked the gps ‘backpack’ that would allow us to identify this bird. Likely for bird welfare reasons, the precise location data isn’t updated live so it was a job of heading to the most likely used sites but alas no luck. We’ll remain vigilant and hopefully be able to locate this bird which, if accepted, would be the first confirmed Icelandic Merlin Falco columbarius subaesalon not only for the island, but for Wales!

The initial journey from Iceland

winter movements of our Merlin

With the Westerlies a slightly better seabird day was to be expected. With a Fulmar, 27 Manx Shearwaters, 16 Gannets, three Cormorants, 16 Shags, a Razorbill and five Puffins being seen during a seawatch by Ezra off the North End in the late Afternoon. Seabirds totals across the island were slightly higher with a total of 36 Manx Shearwaters, 20 Gannets, five Cormorants and 28 Shags being seen.

Only one pair of Shelducks were seen today, on Henllwyn. Again five Mallards were seen across the island and the Gadwalls chose to spend the day on Pwllcain.

Only the immature male Sparrowhawk was seen around Cristin and three Peregrines were seen, a pair over the Mountain and the brute of a female down on the South End.

A Water Rail was heard calling in the Wetlands, at the base of the Greenlane, this is the first on the island this season. Elsewhere throughout the greater Wetlands, five Moorhen were recorded. Few waders were seen today with a couple of Redshank down on Henllwyn and the usual large numbers of Oystercatchers, today numbering 80.

61 Meadow Pipits were recorded across the island today with a couple of Rock Pipits down on the South End. Three Pied Wagtails were down on Solfach whilst three 'Alba' wagtails were recorded flying over several sites on the island.

Only one Robin was recorded today, along with six Dunnocks. Two male Blackbirds battled it out, singing at each other from Cristin and the Green Lane. Only four Stonechats were recorded today, with singles in several sites. This could be a sign that the females are starting to settle down as it approaches the breeding season. Down towards the South eight Wheatears were recorded, the majority being male.

Another rather poor day for warblers, six Chiffchaffs and two Blackcaps were seen. But a slight uptick in Goldcrests, with 12 seen around the North between Nant and Tŷ Nessa.

Again a Chaffinch was seen, this time at Tŷ Nessa but almost certainly the same bird seen at Nant Yesterday. A handful of other finches were recorded with one Siskin flying over the Wetlands, three Goldfinch and fourteen Linnets seen across the island.

During the biweekly low tide Seal count, 93 Grey Seals were recorded, with the majority being concentrated down on the beaches and South End.

Venus off the west side of the island © Steven Stansfield

2026-03-26T22:01:00.078+00:00

Finally a drop in the rough Westerly winds, although still Westerlies, the wind dropped down to F3. This break provided a nice lull, not only for us living on the island but for the bird life too. Visibility remained good, and there was only some light rain from 16:30 until dusk.

Preparations in the Observatory continued, Steve continued putting together the bedrooms in the North side, giving them a top-to-bottom deep clean and touching up the walls with a fresh coat of paint. Emma almost finished the library giving it a a good Spring clean and reorganised after she and Steve re-stablised more of the shelves. After which Ezra and Joel jumped at the opportunity for more painting and gave some of the walls another coat.

Almost finished Library

Low numbers of seabirds were sighted with only two Manx Shearwaters seen off the West Coast and Eight Shags across the island.

A report of 21 Greylag Geese came in from Gareth as they flew over Henllwyn from the NE, doubled back over Solfach and disappeared NE again, heading towards Aberdaron. Six Shelducks were seen between the beaches today, three pairs, likely the whole island population. The pair of Gadwall chose Ty Pellaf pond as their pond of choice with five Mallards dotted around.

The female Merlin remained around the Lighthouse compound whilst two male Sparrowhawks were seen interacting several times on the mountain. The male Peregrine was seen above Nant.

Nine Moorhens were recorded, with five different individuals scattered through the Wetlands. 89 Oystercatchers were present around the coast, with much of these birds coming up to the fields at night to feed. Two each of Whimbrel and Curlew around the Narrows and South End. On Henllwyn a Redshank, Ringed Plover and three Purple Sandpipers were seen, with one of these Purple Sandpipers caught and ringed.

A slight increase in Pipits and Wagtails today, 68 Meadow Pipits, four Rock Pipits and fourteen Pied Wagtails. These were mainly recorded in small groups across the island in various places but a flock of seven Pied Wagtails on the Narrows was noteworthy.

Seven Dunnocks, a couple of Robins and two singing male Blackbirds were detected today. Nine Stonechats were spread across the island and nine Wheatears were seen on the South End.

Similarly low numbers of Warblers today. Only five Chiffchaffs and three Goldcrests, however two Firecrests were seen, confirming our suspicions that the bird to the North of the island and the one seen at Cristin were separate birds.

A Chaffinch at Nant was the first non-flyover Chaffinch to be seen in a while. Three Goldfinch and 13 Linnet were also seen.

A rather high count of Grey Seals compared to recent counts, totalling 192 between all the sites. Both Solfach and Henllwyn each contained 77 individuals with 38 seen elsewhere.

Grey Seals on Solfach © Steven Stansfield

2026-03-25T18:04:00.053+00:00

An even windier day than yesterday, with forces reaching up to 8 and remaining Westerly. Although a mostly dry day however, there was heavy rain in the morning and brief heavy shower with hail mid-afternoon.

Today, attention was focused on finalising the dining room ready for a chilli night with some of the island residents. Whilst Ezra painted the stairways all the way to the ceiling in both sides of the Observatory, Joel finished up painting the Common room walls. Steve spent time fixing the shelves in the Library, and Emma putting all the books back afterwards!

Late afternoon saw Steve create a vat of Chilli as we had invited all the staff on the island for dinner, including the potential new farmers who will take over from Gareth and Meriel in September.

the first 'social' evening of the season

Five Fulmars, 21 Manx Shearwaters and 20 Gannets were seen off the coast with these mainly being off the West Coast. The Brent Goose remained on Solfach and a pair of Shelduck swam around on the relatively calm Henllwyn. Across the entire island nine Mallard were recorded and the Gadwall pair chose the Schoolhouse pond to spend their day.

Again another poor day for raptors with a single Peregrine braving the winds above Cristin. Also at Cristin were the regular pair of Moorhens. Very few waders were recorded with a single Whimbrel on the South End and 68 being a low count for Oystercatcher.

19 Kittiwakes were seen heading west, along with nine Guillemots, three Razorbills and seven unidentified Auk Species.

A handful of Pipit and Wagtails were present. Only 17 Meadow Pipits, four Rock Pipits and a couple Pied Wagtails. A single Dunnock was at Nant.

A Robin could be heard singing from the Mountain Gorse, along with a Blackbird singing at Plas. Only one Wheatear was present and that was on the Narrows. Four Stonechats were seen.

Low numbers of Warblers too with two Blackcaps, six Chiffchaffs and five Goldcrests across the island.

2026-03-24T18:01:00.079+00:00

The day started with a short downpour and a strong Westerly wind of F7 with large gusts, the sea ridged with deep troughs and high crests. Unfortunately, the spell of nice weather couldn’t last forever but this weather is more typical of early Spring on the island.

Preparing the Observatory continued as Joel joined Ezra on the de-moulding in the morning before they both switched to a spot of painting in the afternoon. Neither of them were able to produce anything worthy of an art gallery. Steve got the blog updated in the morning and was cleaning upstairs in the afternoon, whilst Emma was dealing with the Library.

Getting the Library fixed © Steven Stansfield

Away from the graft, 13 Manx Shearwaters were seen, the majority of these were seen heading South along the West Coast of the island, as were seven Gannets. The dark-bellied Brent Goose remained on Solfach where it was joined by a pair of Shelduck, which totalled four across the island. Elsewhere the pair of Gadwall remained and nine Mallards were spread across much of the island.

Very low detection of raptors today, likely due to the weather. A Peregrine above the Cristin, was the only bird of prey seen all day.

Five Moorhen were seen today with a pair being seen at Cristin and singles in different places within the greater wetland area. Waders were thin on the ground, with a pair of Snipe being flushed off Pwll Cain and a Whimbrel on the Narrows being the highlights. Otherwise two Turnstone and 75 Oystercatchers were the only other waders recorded.

Gareth brought news of a summer-plumage Black-headed Gull bobbing around in Henllwyn, alas it had already left by the time any of the Observatory managed to check. This is the first recorded this Spring. Over at Nant another first for this Spring was recorded, this time a Collared Dove, along with a flock of 25 Woodpigeons. The first Collared Dove usually gets recorded in early April so this is slightly earlier than usual.

Collared Dove © Joel Tragen

A modest count of 54 Meadow Pipits, with a lot of these birds being recorded between the Narrows and South End. Seven Rock Pipits were present, five of which were in Henllwyn and were joined by a Pied Wagtail.

Only one Dunnock was recorded , which was in the Wetlands. Six Stonechats and five Wheatears were seen during Ezra’s census of the South half of the island. A very vocal Blackbird remained around Cristin, singing through much of the day. Ezra noted a Redwing calling over the Narrows on his return to the LSA hut.

Low numbers of warblers continued to be present, most notably was the presence of two Willow Warblers, one each at Cristin and Plas Withy. A male Blackcap and a Firecrest both skulked around the Damson bushes at Cristin. Totalled between the Withies and Cristin, five Chiffchaffs were seen and seven Goldcrests were at Nant.

The only Finches noted today were both flyovers, a Chaffinch and a Linnet, over the Wetlands.

2026-03-23T12:31:00.008+00:00

A bright and settled day with a fresh southerly breeze force four, a slight sea state and good visibility. The temperature stayed around 10°C, giving a crisp but pleasant feel across the island.

Our other Assistant this year Joel Tragen, who many of you will have met during his numerous times volunteering on the island, arrived today

Emma, Ezra and Joel heading to the Obs from the boat. © Steven Stansfield

Indoor work continued post census, with me finishing of the washroom, Emma moved onto sorting the Library, Ezra continued his de-moulding quest, I moved to painting the north quad bedroom and Joel spent the day unpacking

sealant and paint all dry, walls painted and ready to go © Steven Stansfield

A pair of Fulmars were at Pen Cristin early on and two Gannets moved past the South End. Ducks and geese were represented by four Shelducks between the South End and Solfach, the pair of Gadwall on Pwll G and two Mallards around Solfach and Pwll G. and the Brent Goose remained off Solfach. We are ever hopefull the Gadwalls will be staying to breed again and hopefully be successful this year.

Raptors included an immature male Sparrowhawk around the Observatory, a female Merlin at the South End and an immature female Peregrine also hunting at the South End.

Peregrine © Ezra Sherwell

Moorhens totalled three between the School Pond, Pwll Gareth and Cristin. Oystercatchers reached 76, two Redshanks were present, one at Henllwyn and another at Solfach.

Herring Gulls were reduced today with only four at the Narrows, while five Great Black‑backed Gulls were seen between the Narrows and the South End. Thirty Kittiwakes gathered off Pen Cristin.

Woodpigeons reached 11 across the Lowlands. Meadow Pipits climbed again to 120, with a large flock of seventy feeding across the Lowlands and the remainder scattered around the South End, the Narrows and the Wetlands. Rock Pipits totalled seven.

Pied Wagtails numbered ten at the Narrows, with two 'alba' wagtails by the South End. Dunnocks totalled four and a single Robin remained around the Mountain. Stonechats were again present with four including a pair at the South End. Three Wheatears, two males and one female, were also at the South End. Two Blackbirds lingered around the Withies and Cristin.

Warblers remained quiet with only two Chiffchaffs, one at the Wetlands and one at the Observatory, while a single Blackcap was on the Wetlands. Goldcrests increased slightly with six including five around Nant. The Firecrest was again seen around the Observatory.

Five Choughs were present, one at the South End and four along the West Coast. Two Rooks were seen around the Narrows and a single Raven passed over the South End.

Finch numbers increased today with 27 Goldfinches, mainly around the Narrows, while Linnets reached 24 with birds across the South End, the Observatory and the West Coast. Two Chaffinches were around the South End and a single Siskin was noted.

2026-03-22T12:03:00.075+00:00

Another calm morning with a light westerly breeze force three and a slight sea state. Visibility remained moderate throughout and with no rain and a temperature of 11°C, it was a pleasant early spring day on the island.

A bit of a murky day, and the first time we saw the sun properly all day was at sunset!

Grey Seal numbers increased again, with seven at Henllwyn, twelve at Solfach and 24 elsewhere giving a total of 43 around the coastline.

The sea produced four Gannets off the South End and a good total of 31 Shags including eighteen around the Narrows and further birds at Solfach, Pen Cristin, the East Side and the North End. One Cormorant was also around the Narrows. A single Grey Heron remained around Pwll Gareth and the Brent Goose was seen at the Narrows.

Shelducks totalled four between Henllwyn and Solfach. Mallards reached five and the pair of Gadwall lingered on Pwll Cristin.

Raptors were represented by two Peregrines, a female at the South End and a male over the Mountain.

Waders included a single Ringed Plover at Solfach. Two Whimbrels were at the South End and later around the North End. Redshanks numbered two at the Narrows. Oystercatcher numbers totalled 126 with 55 at Henllwyn, 40 at the South End, 13 at the Narrows and smaller groups around Solfach, Pen Cristin and the East Side.

Gulls remained active with 23 Lesser Black‑backed Gulls and 95 Herring Gulls around the North End colony and East Side. Eight Great Black‑backed Gulls were scattered across the island. Kittiwakes increased to 56 off the East Side cliffs.

Auks were represented by one Guillemot at the South End, thirty Razorbills between the South End and West Coast, and twelve auk sp.

Woodpigeons totalled 12 across the Wetlands, Withies, Cristin, Pen Cristin and the Mountain.

Meadow Pipits dropped to a pitiful 17 with birds at the South End, the Narrows, the Wetlands and the Mountain. Rock Pipits reached 15 with nine at the South End and smaller numbers at the Narrows, Solfach and the East Side. 'alba" wagtails totalled seven between the South End and Pen Cristin. Wrens remained widespread with 19 across the island and Dunnocks totalled four and a single Robin was at the Observatory.

Stonechats were well represented with seven including a pair at the South End and five around the Wetlands. Seven Wheatears were logged, six males and one female at the South End. One Blackbird remained around the Observatory.

Chiffchaffs totalled three with birds at the Wetlands, the Withies and the Observatory. A Willow Warbler, the first of the spring, was also at the Observatory. Two Goldcrests were around Cristin and a Firecrest was also seen there.

Magpies reached 20 and Choughs were numerous with 28 across the Mountain and the South End. One Jackdaw was seen moving east around the Narrows and a Hooded Crow was also around the same area. Two Ravens were on the East Side cliffs.

Finches were thinly spread with single Chaffinch, Goldfinch and Siskin recorded, and eight Linnets seen

2026-03-21T10:37:00.112+00:00

Another lovely calm morning with a light easterly breeze force one to two and a slight sea state. Visibility was moderate and the day felt settled throughout and came to an end with a great sunset and some fab nigh-time skies!

Again much fixing cleaning and tidying went on during the day. the new tap in the washroom is a slow job, waiting for paints and sealants to dry etc...

Slow, but steady progress in the washroom

Grey Seal numbers were lower than earlier in the week with six hauled out at Henllwyn, five at Solfach and 18 elsewhere giving a total of 29 around the coastline. A single Small Tortoiseshell was seen at the Observatory, and the first Risso’s Dolphin of the year passed the South End during the morning.

At sea four Gannets were off the South End and a total of 31 Shags and five Cormorants were also logged. A single Little Egret was around the Narrows. The largest ever flock of Canada Geese arrived from the north‑east with 16 flying past the West Coast, and the Brent Goose lingered at Solfach. Six Shelducks remained split between Henllwyn and Solfach. Mallards totalled six with pairs at Solfach, Pwll Cristin and the North End.

The second Red Kite of the week drifted along the West Coast, one Sparrowhawk came in off the sea at the South End and a Buzzard was around Nant and over the Mountain. A Merlin was also seen hunting at the South End.

Waders were fairly well distributed. One Ringed Plover was seen on Solfach and one Snipe was recorded around the Narrows.

Two Whimbrels were logged, one along the West Coast and one at the North End. A single Curlew remained at the South End. Redshanks totalled three at Solfach. Oystercatchers reached 148 with 44 at Henllwyn, 38 at the South End, 22 along the West Coast, 20 at Solfach, five around the Narrows and 15 on the west side.

Lesser Black‑backed Gulls numbered 22 at the North End colony. Herring Gulls reached 125 with 115 also at the colony. Seven Great Black‑backed Gulls were scattered between the South End, Solfach, the West Coast and the North End. Two Kittiwakes were seen along the West Coast. Auks included 11 Guillemots and 15 Razorbills with 12 auk sp. elsewhere.

Woodpigeons totalled seven across the island. Moorhens increased to five between the Wetlands, the Withies and the freshwater pools. A single Ringed Plover and one Snipe note were seen, and the three Redshanks were still on Solfach.

A notable reduction occurred in the sizable pipit movements of yesterday. Meadow Pipits totalled 142 across the island with 46 on the west side, 45 on the South End and smaller numbers elsewhere. Rock Pipits rose to 14 including eight around the South End. Pied Wagtails remained low with a single bird at the Narrows and two alba wagtails at the South End.

Wrens were conspicuous again with 27 counted across many areas. Dunnocks reached six and Blackbirds numbered four. Stonechats totalled three with birds at the South End, the Wetlands and the West Coast. Ten Wheatears were logged including four males at the South End and four males and one female around the Narrows, with another male on the west side.

Chiffchaffs reached nine including birds at the Wetlands, Nant and Cristin. Goldcrests remained numerous with 11 around the island, nine of them in the plantation. A Firecrest was also present at Nant, a highlight for the day along with a Blackcap.

Six Choughs were spread between the South End, the Mountain and the west side. Two Ravens were over the Narrows during the afternoon.

Finches included two Chaffinches, four Goldfinches, two Siskins on the South End and plantation, and six Linnets scattered between the South End, the Narrows and Nant. Two Lesser Redpolls were at the South End.

2026-03-20T08:12:00.122+00:00

A calm and gentle morning with a light south‑westerly breeze force one to two and a slight sea state. Visibility remained moderate for much of the day and temperatures reached 13°C. The first Swallow of the year in the afternoon means it must truly be spring, but we have to remember that one Swallow doesn't make a summer!

For most of the day work continued on getting the Obs ready. lots of cleaning still, and now painting has also begun. the countdown to guests arriving has begun!

We also had a visit from a lovely little dog today. This bag of energy, Reid and his handler Rachel Cripps usually work in Scotland, but the Welsh detection team Jynx and Greg are busy checking the south Wales islands at the moment, so Reid was having a special day out to Bardsey!.

Here is a short video on You Tube of Reid and Rachel working in Scotland.

Grey Seal numbers were lower than previous days with 21 hauled out at Solfach, seven at Henllwyn and three elsewhere giving a total of 31 around the island. A single Devil’s Coach Horse beetle was found at the Observatory.

Wildfowl included ten Common Scoters moved south past the South End in the morning, with the rarity of the day being male Shoveler seen on the West Coast, this is only the 33rd record for the island. The Brent Goose at Solfach, four Shelducks between Solfach and Henllwyn and a single male Teal on Pwll Cristin. Mallards totalled nine across the island including birds at Solfach, Pwll Cristin, the Narrows and the North End.

Waders were represented by a single Whimbrel at the South End that was later seen again along the West Coast. One Curlew was also at the South End, and three Redshanks were on Solfach. Oystercatcher numbers climbed again to 170 including 69 at Henllwyn, 35 on the South End, 33 along the West Coast, 25 around the Narrows and eight at the North End.

Gulls showed strong numbers at the North End colony with 241 Herring Gulls present including 228 on the colony. A further 25 Lesser Black‑backed Gulls were also at the colony. Three Great Black‑backed Gulls were present at the South End and the North Hide. Seven Kittiwakes passed the South End. Razorbills increased slightly with 18 seen along the South End and six auk sp. recorded elsewhere.

Pigeons included seven Woodpigeons scattered across the island and three Stock Doves over the Observatory. Two Skylarks were logged, one at the South End and another along the West Coast.

Migration was evident in the strong movement of Meadow Pipits which reached 343 across the island. The majority consisted of 275 birds moving south over the South End during the morning. Rock Pipits rose to nine including seven on the South End and two on the West Coast.

Pied Wagtails increased to 22 with birds spread between the South End, the Narrows and the West Coast. Robins totalled three.

Wheatears surged with 14 seen today. These included six males and one female on the South End and a further seven males around the Narrows. Three Blackbirds were seen around the Wetlands and Observatory.

Chiffchaffs increased slightly to eight with birds around the Wetlands, the Observatory and Nant. Goldcrests reached 13, including seven in the plantation.

Corvids were prominent again with 29 Magpies across the island, four Choughs were logged between the South End and the North End. One Jackdaw moved from the West Coast to the Narrows. Fourteen Carrion Crows were recorded.

Finches included one Chaffinch, nine Goldfinches, five Siskins and 13 Linnets with birds noted in most areas. Two Lesser Redpolls were at the South End.

2026-03-19T08:12:00.089+00:00

A warm and settled day with a gentle north‑easterly breeze force two and a slight sea state. Visibility remained very good throughout and temperatures reached 16°C, giving the island its first real taste of spring.

Grey Seal numbers saw 63 hauled out at Solfach, five at Henllwyn and four elsewhere giving a total of 72 around the coast. Two butterflies were active in the sunshine, with a single Small Tortoiseshell and the first Peacock of the year seen at Cristin.

A quieter sea today although two Gannets passed, one off the South End and one off the Narrows. Four Shags were logged between the South End and Henllwyn, along with a single Cormorant at the South End. Wildfowl included a Brent Goose fund by Gareth, that moved from Henllwyn to Solfach, five Shelducks split between Henllwyn and Solfach, and the pair of Gadwall at Henllwyn. A single female Teal was on Pwll Cristin and seven Mallards were distributed between Solfach, the Wetlands, the Withies and Pwll Cristin.

Waders were again lightly represented. One Whimbrel was on the South End and a single Curlew fed at Henllwyn. A lone Redshank was around the Narrows. Oystercatchers remained numerous with 133 across the island, including 53 at Henllwyn, 42 around the Narrows and 38 at the South End.

Herring Gull numbers totalled 55, with 48 at the Narrows, three on the South End and four at Henllwyn. Nine Great Black‑backed Gulls were logged, six at the Narrows and three on the South End. F

Passerines were far livelier today. Meadow Pipits increased to 102 across the island including 60 around the South End and 23 over the Narrows. Four Rock Pipits were logged between the South End and Solfach. Pied Wagtails reached 17, with 16 around the Narrows and one on the South End. One White Wagtail, the first of the year, was also present on the Narrows.

Wrens remained widespread but in low numbers with 16 across the island, and Dunnocks numbered just four and Robins increased to five. Stonechats were active again, with six including two pairs on the Wetlands and single males at the South End and the Lowlands. Four Wheatears were logged, two males and one female on the South End and one male around the Narrows.

Warblers included two male Blackcaps, one at Cristin and one at the South End. Chiffchaffs totalled six with birds in the Withies, on the West Coast and at Cristin. Goldcrests were more numerous, with 12 across the island including six at Cristin.

A single Blackbird remained around Cristin. Choughs totalled ten with eight around the Narrows. Sixteen Carrion Crows were also present between the Narrows and the South End. A lone Raven drifted across the Mountain mid‑morning, his partner presumably on eggs somewhere.

Finches included two Chaffinches, four Siskins, 14 Linnets including 11 around the South End and two Lesser Redpolls at the South End.

The highlight of the day however was Yellowhammer seen on the South End during morning census. This former commons breeder is now a mega rarity on the island.

The male Reed Bunting also moved from the withies to the South End.

2026-03-18T11:06:00.044+00:00

A much calmer and sunnier day than yesterday, with a light southerly wind force 2 to 3 and a light sea state. Visibility was great and the day felt more settled and spring-like overall. A single Small Tortoiseshell was also seen at Cristin, one of the first butterflies of the spring seen on the wing.

Nets were erected and opened at Cristin, with six nets set for a few hours during the afternoon for the first time this year. A couple of Chiffchaffs and Goldcrests were the first birds of the year to make it onto the ringing totals.

Seawatching from the South End produced three Fulmars offshore along with a single Manx Shearwater and modest numbers of auks. Guillemots numbered four, Razorbills 10 and a further 10 auk sp. also moved through. A single Cormorant was on Solfach together with three Shags shared between the South End and Solfach.

Wildfowl included four Shelducks, two each at Solfach and Henllwyn, along with two Teal on Pwll Gareth. Two Mallards remained around the Withies.

A Red Kite, Merlin and Peregrine were logged, the Merlin, a female hunting over the South End and the Peregrine ranging over the Mountain along with the Kite.

Waders were again spread thinly but interest came from two Whimbrels on the South End. A single Curlew was also in the same area. One Redshank fed at Henllwyn and a lone Turnstone remained on Solfach. Oystercatcher numbers totalled 152, with 66 at Henllwyn, 41 on the South End, 39 around the Narrows and six on Solfach.

A single Great Black‑backed Gull loafed near the South End, with 68 Herring Gulls across the island including 59 at the Narrows. Nineteen Kittiwakes passed offshore.

Woodpigeons totalled 12 with six on the Mountain, five around the Withies and one on the Wetlands. A lone Skylark remained on the South End. Migration picked up slightly compared with yesterday, with Meadow Pipits jumping to 39 and Rock Pipits up to six.

Pied Wagtails increased to 12 with nine around the Narrows and three on the South End. Blackbirds reached four across Cristin and the Withies. Two Wheatears were on the Narrows, the first small arrival of the spring here. Stonechats totalled five with one on the South End and four on the Wetlands.

Warblers were better represented today. Chiffchaffs increased to 12 with five at Cristin and seven in the Withies. A Firecrest was also at Cristin and one was a nice addition. Goldcrests reached six, all around Cristin and the first two male Blackcaps were also present at the Observatory.

Finches were modest but included two Chaffinches, a single Siskin at Cristin and nine Linnets split between Cristin and the South End. A Bullfinch was calling at Cristin continuing a nice run of early spring records, with a couple being seen last March too.

The day’s highlight however came late morning when a group of five Greylag Geese flew north up the west coast. A single Common Crossbill was also seen flying over Cristin. A Reed Bunting was seen in the Withies too.

Choughs numbered just four split between the South End and West Coast while 24 Carrion Crows gathered between the Narrows and the South End. A single Raven drifted over the South End mid‑morning.

2026-03-17T10:28:00.067+00:00

Still more cleaning and scrubbing continues in the Lodge. Lynda had scrubbed all the pans, pots, crockery and cutlery and glassware to an inch of their lives, all shining and clean for our first guests on 4th April.

Ezra and I continued cleaning and scrubbing walls and carpets, windows and doors and made a start on cleaning the ringing hut.

The new plinth for the mixer tap in the washroom is now painted and drying in the tool shed, whist the tap sort of gently dangles over the edge of the sink!

New base for the washroom tap

not quite finished!

Again a fresh south‑westerly wind force four to five pushed across the island throughout the day, with a moderate sea state and murky visibility. A little light rain in the morning added to the damp feel, though conditions improved slightly later on.

Despite the breezy conditions, there was enough movement and life around the island to keep the day interesting. Overnight a single Manx Shearwater, the first of the year, was heard calling over the Narrows. Morning checks on the South End produced a Great Northern Diver passing at sea, along with a single Fulmar and one Gannet. Seven Shags were scattered between the South End, Carreg yr Henllwyn and the West Coast. Two Cormorants were also noted, one at Henllwyn and another off the West Coast.

Wildfowl were thinly spread, although a pair of Teal remained on Pwll Gareth, with seven Mallards across Solfach, the wetlands and the Withies, and two Shelducks loafing around Henllwyn still.

A single adult male Sparrowhawk and an immature male were seen around the Observatory, while four Moorhens were logged across Cristin, Tŷ Pellaf Pond, Gareth's Pond and the Lime Kiln Pond. Waders were also thinly distributed, with Dunlin numbering two at Henllwyn where they were flushed after dark. Oystercatchers totalled 187, including one 163 at Henllwyn, 19 on the South End and five on Solfach. Single Curlew and a lone Redshank were logged, with three Turnstones at Solfach.

Gulls were present in small numbers. Herring Gulls totalled 111, with around eighty at the Narrows and 31 at Henllwyn. Lesser Black‑backed Gulls numbered eight, all around the Narrows. Four Great Black‑backed Gulls were present, split between Henllwyn and the Narrows.

Passerines were unsurprisingly quiet in the brisk breeze. One Skylark was logged on the South End, while eighteen Meadow Pipits were scattered across the island. Four Rock Pipits were found, three at Henllwyn and one at Solfach. Five Pied Wagtails were counted between the South End, Narrows and Solfach.

A single Robin was in the Withies, accompanied by two Dunnocks at the Wetlands. Three Blackbirds were present with singles at Cristin, the School and the Withies. Three Stonechats included a pair at the South End and one at the Wetlands. Chiffchaffs totalled five, with birds at the Wetlands, Green Lane, the Observatory and the Mountain. A lone Goldcrest was seen at the Observatory.

Up to 16 Magpies were again scattered in the Withies and along the West Coast and Narrows. Nine Choughs ranged between the South End, Narrows and West Coast. Ten Carrion Crows were seen around the Narrows. Two Starlings were at the Narrows, while a single Linnet was also recorded there.

Marine mammals were well represented, with just 57 Grey Seals hauled out at Solfach and two elsewhere, with the one very late 3 week old seal pup still present at Solfach.

Seal Pup and mum from a couple of days ago - Gareth Roberts

Although migration was quiet overall, it felt as though the island was on the cusp of change. As the wind begins to ease and shift, we may yet see the first real pulse of spring migrants arriving in the coming days.

2026-03-16T09:53:00.016+00:00

More cleaning and removing mildew from walls and ceilings today, as well as the begging of repairing the washroom sink area and replacing the taps.

Ezra cleaning the mildew from the walls in the bootroom

Out with the old...

A bit of sawing and drilling

... and in with the new.

weather wise the SW 5-6 wind continued, with rain in the morning making the day a bit miserable.

Out on the water and around the coastline, the counts remain steady. We recorded one Gannet passing the West Coast today, while one Cormorant was in Henllwyn and four Shags were seen..

In the wetter areas and around the Narrows, we counted two Shelducks again, along with one Mallard and the male Gadwall was still at Ty Pellaf pond. A Moorhen was near the Obs, with another two in the wetlands. The Oystercatcher numbers is still looking healthy, with 136 counted between the Narrows and South End. They were accompanied by a Whimbrel on the South End

Gull numbers included 12 Herring Gulls, one Kittiwake, and five Great Black-backed Gulls. Four Guillemots and the first three Puffins of the year were off the South End.

Passerines are gradually increasing, with 14 Meadow Pipits and eight Rock Pipits spread across the South End and Narrows. Other sightings included two Woodpigeons, two Pied Wagtails, and four Stonechat. Only one Chiffchaff was seen and two Goldcrests sheltered from the wind and rain.

The local Choughs remain a constant highlight, with 11 seen. Three Chaffinches were at the Observatory garden and two Linnets were on the South End.

2026-03-15T09:29:00.002+00:00

A cool, unsettled feel to the island with a gusty force six South West wind.

A quiet day all-round really as work continued on the Observatory getting it prepared for the visitor season.

Offshore, seabirds were in small numbers. One Fulmar was at the North End, five Gannets moved through, three Cormorants were all at South End, two Shelducks were in Henllwyn.

Raptors were represented by one Sparrowhawk at Plas Withy and one Merlin at the North End. Wetland birds included three Moorhens in the Lowlands and wetlands.

Waders around the shores and the Narrows were led by 192 Oystercatchers in total. One Snipe was seen at Pwll Cain and a Whimbrel and seven Turnstones were in Solfach. There were two Curlews at the North End and a Redshank at Henllwyn.

Gulls amounted to 35 Lesser Black‑backed Gulls, with 34 at the North End colony and one in Henllwyn, with 235 Herring Gulls all at the North End. Two Great Black‑backed Gulls were at South End, and four Kittiwakes at sea

Passerines were thin on the ground. there were 18 Meadow Pipits seen, one at the North End and 17 in the Lowlands. Five Rock Pipits were around the coast. Two Pied Wagtails were at the Narrows. In the bushes and gardens, two Dunnocks were in the Lowlands, one Robin was at Nant, three Stonechats in the Lowlands and one Blackbird was at the Observatory. Early spring warblers featured eight Chiffchaffs , while six Goldcrests were shared between the Observatory (two), Nant (two) and the Withies (two). Corvids included 17 Magpies , 14 Choughs around the Observatory and the mountain, two Carrion Crows and one Raven over the Observatory. Finches comprised four Chaffinches (two at the Observatory and two at Nant) and one Linnet at the North End.