Migration counts come to a close

The final migration count by Mara

The day started with the last migration count of the season. Migration was done this morning by Ragnar, Mara, and Alfred. Alfred is joining the team for the weekend and is a very passionate young birder keen to learn more and develop his skills in the field. Migration was slow and the highlights were a Little auk (Søkonge), this was Alfred’s first and all of the team had a clear view. Migration was cut short as the weather started to close in, so all headed back for lunch and a chill but productive afternoon. With this being the last migration count of the season, Ragnar has been the most dedicated and has completed 480 hours battling the weather and the sandy conditions since the summer.

Stockmillen

Meanwhile, Thomas and I went on a cycle ride in the sunshine to Stockmillen and went for a walk. Exploring the area was so lovely and we went on a beautiful walk through a pine wood and the dunes also getting a little distracted by a sweet and excitable dog who came running through the sand dunes to greet us. We saw Crested tit (Topmejse), Goldcrest (Fuglekonge) and Coal tit (Sortmejse). The weather was rather atmospheric with moody and dramatic skies moving through. This later turned to rain when we cycled back to Skagen and took a short detour to shelter in a bakery for sweet treats and tea and hot chocolate.

Pastry lunch

The croissants and cardamom buns were good and shortly got demolished. After some food we went for an explore of Skagen then headed back in the rain to warm up with even more tea.

Det Grå Fyr

After a chill but productive afternoon cleaning, we are all chilling whilst Ragnar cooks dinner. It has been a successful day for all and a nice way to finish November off. Here is a photo of the lighthouse looking rather atmospheric this evening as darkness descends.

Highlights from the observatory:

• Little Auk (Søkonge)

Ringing totals

Jennes Sø:

Overall total: 12

Today’s observations on Dofbasen from observers in the area

People: Eleanor Harris, Thomas Weston, Mara Glane, Ragnar Smith & Alfred Godsk Geckler.