Been out and about but the cold weather has subdued signs of spring for the moment. Last weekend there were a few signs with my first proper vis mig session of the spring at Ferryhills producing a predictable early season combination of northbound Meadow pipits and Pink-footed geese. Two singing Chiffchaffs were probably fresh arrivals as this species is uncommon in winter up here compared to further south.

The Easter weekend has been cold and wet for the most part but the sun was out today so I headed to Ruddons Point. Velvet Scoter were in impressive numbers with over 400 and the regular drake Surf Scoter was present at typical Ruddons Point range.

I was thinking Black Redstart on the shore here would be a good shout with a small arrival   on the easterlies the last few days but no luck.

The drake Surfie at typical long range