Moth Fest

Lade - 0500hrs - warm, sunny, e2, hot later rising to 26C - Needless to say overnight conditions were suitable for large numbers of moths coming to light with over 300 moths and 34 species in the trap. Most numerous were Brown-tails at 64, followed by 28 Broad-barred Whites! In amongst the common stuff was my second Sussex Emerald of the year and first Pale Grass Eggar, Common Rustic and Single-dotted Wave.
Dungeness - Had a run around this morning with the Joker. First stop the Obs for a natter and to check out the Dewick`s Plusia in the fridge, a rare migrant from the continent that had been trapped somewhere up on the Weald. Also a Yellow Wagtail overhead calling.
ARC -Plenty to see from Hanson hide with 2 Garganeys amongst the dabbling Teals, Gadwalls and Shovelers. Waders included 6 Common Sands, 3 LRPs and singles of Dunlin, Ringed Plover and Greenshank. Towards the water tower 8 spangled Golden Plovers dropped in amongst the Lapwings plus Little Egret, Wigeon and Common Tern. Plenty of Reed Warblers chugging away and a calling Willow Warbler in the car park.

                                          Pale Grass Eggar

                                          Sussex Emerald

                                          Single-dotted Wave

                                          Garganey, ARC