All done!

Post date: Aug 29, 2015 4:20:28 PM

The 12th and last session of the CES was undertaken today. This year I did it all on my own, but it was well worth it, as now this site will contribute to estimate national trends at least of the commonest species. It was a fine, mild day, pretty much perfect for ringing, although the numbers (39 birds of 14 species) declined by more than half in relation to the last session. This was mostly due to fewer Willow and Reed Warblers, and the notable absence of Blackcaps, but there were some novelties: the first Wren for the site this year, and the very first Goldcrest/Kungsfågle for the CES! It seems that a lot of birds already departed to their southern wintering areas, but some are probably passing by (Marsh and Icterine Warblers, Lesser Whitethroats), though one cannot be certain whether they are local birds or passage migrants. Observations of very many Tree Pipits, and some Spotted and Pied Flycatchers, as well as a gorgeous Wryneck, certainly suggest that birds are passing through.

Evidently, I did not look at the numbers yet, but it is obvious that in relation to last year there was a decline in all Acrocephalus species and an increase in Phylloscopus species. At some stage, I will build a new results table comparing the totals per species and per year. But now, I need to pack up, as I'll travel to Portugal tomorrow, where I will do some work on the migratory Aquatic Warblers and other species! Then I will use my personal webpage to divulge the results. I will leave you with some pictures of the day...

Lesser Whitethroat, one of my favourite species in Sweden

Sedge Warblers were much fewer this year than last year

There was only one Wren this year!

The smallest bird of Europe and the only ever trapped at the CES: the Goldcrest!

The typical wing formulae of the Marsh Warbler

Most Marsh Tits around Krankesjön are ringed by colleagues from Lund university at their nest boxes

I will carry out some late autumn and winter ringing at Krankesjön and will let you know of any interesting events/birds. In the mean time, you can check my personal webpage!

JMN