Sightings

Main sighting: Swifts

Screaming parties of Swifts now regular over the village – 7 birds this morning, 4 yesterday and 7 on 10th (seen by J Goodlass).

Main sighting: Cuckoo

Cuckoo calling from Trellech Common woods around 10.30, the first I’ve heard this year.

Main sighting: Wood Warbler

At least 2 Wood Warblers, Common Redstart heard, 2 male Cuckoos, 1 Grey Wagtail. Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler too. 2 Swallows at the farm below the wood.

Main sighting: Swifts

First sign of swifts checking out last year s nest in eaves. Last to arrive, first to leave…

Main sighting: Swift

15 plus Swift flying over Usk prison at 8pm.

Main sighting: Merlin

Merlin seen in unsuccessful attempt midday, to catch a House Martin, (approx 15 metres over the top of the site car park).
House Martins (10); Swallows (4).

Main sighting: Garganey

Garganey

Main sighting: yellow wagtail

male yellow wagtail lingering again this year

Main sighting: Swifts

Party of four Swifts screaming intermittently around 18.30 + several House Martins.

Main sighting: Swift

Finally, 14 swifts over the Monnow in Monmouth today. It’s great to see them back. In a field close to the Eurogarage Services northbound side were three yellow wagtails (same field I’ve seen them in in previous years). Perched on wires here. Also tree pipit, possibly two, singing in felled forestry (with single broadleaves left standing) behind Pen y Clawdd farm. Garden warbler and whitethroat here too, all birds I’ve recorded here in previous years, though tree pipit fewer in number this year (may just be time of day). Redstart singing from trees towards Dingestowe. Hobby rapidly past the house in Mitchel Troy approx a week ago.

Main sighting: Grasshopper Warbler

Grasshopper Warbler reeling in cover close to the main path not far from car park

Main sighting: Grasshopper Warbler

Grasshopper Warbler reeling in cover close to the main path not far from car park