Northern Lights bring good luck to the station

Hello dear readers!

Late last night we received a good omen in the form of the Northern Lights: they were visible into the early hours of this morning, and some of us were able to take some incredible photos! Although the Stormsvale (Storm Petrel) catching was unsuccessful, this natural spectacle more than made up for it. A meteor shower was also passing through, and we had lots of fun wishing on shooting stars.

We had the incredible luck of seeing the Northern Lights!

Then we headed out to this morning’s ringing. We had a good amount of birds today, and were able to apply Andrew’s technique of measuring the claws of Rørsangers (Reed Warblers) to help separate them from Kærsangers (Marsh Warblers). Simon also explained how we can age birds based on skull ossification, demonstrating on a young Reed Warbler. One of the Reed Warblers caught was partially leucistic, having several white feathers on the head – I hadn't seen this on these birds before, and I found it a cute feature.

Meanwhile, Ragnar and Joe were carrying out observations and saw a Dværgfalk (Merlin) and a Temmincksryle (Temminck’s Stint), both of which were firsts for the season!

After the ringing, we took care of some chores around the station. Andrew and I both headed into town to pick up some supplies, and I also bought a bag of candy to take home to my family. Then Andrew washed the mountain bikes to keep them in good condition.

In the evening, Simon drove us over to Glyvemarkener to see what birds might be present. We saw plenty of Dobbeltbekkasin (Common Snipe), along with a Mudderklire (Common Sandpiper) and a couple of Svaleklire (Green Sandpipers).

Our outing to Glyvemarkener.

In the wet meadow, Ragnar discovered a wasp spider – we were all interested in this find, as these spiders are quite visually striking!

Ragnar's incredible find!

While we were out, Andrew cooked us a delicious dinner and we are now ready for what tomorrow will bring. This will sadly be my last blog for now, so goodbye everyone and thank you so much for reading!

Today’s Ringing Numbers (Kabeltromlen)

Gransanger (Chiffchaff): 1
Kærsanger (Marsh Warbler): 3
Løvsanger (Willow Warbler): 4
Rørsanger (Reed Warbler): 4
Tornsanger (Common Whitethroat): 6
Total: 18

People at the station: Andrew Commins, Lucas Corneliussen, Ragnar Smith, Rosa Hicks, Asia Kane, Simon Christiansen, Joe Zeno, Grethe and Stig

Link to today's observations on Dofbasen