A chance finally to get out and do some ringing, but where to go? Staines Moor might have been a good option but the water levels are extremely variable so not a good choice without reconnaissance in advance, and the Water Pipits are not being attracted to the river flowing through the site, but rather range across the entire area popping up on any of the sodden areas and relocating frequently.
Better perhaps then to try Chobham Common. This had been a disappointment at the end of 2020 without large flocks of Redpoll and the few Redwing present being difficult to catch. But, the catching season here is limited to the winter months and this is also our only regular site for Dartford Warbler.
We decided this was the best place to spend the two almost windless mornings.
We targeted two areas where Dartford Warblers have been ringed in the past and on our last chance to monitor we captured five birds over the weekend.
We had been hoping for recaptures. However large areas of the common went up in flames last year so we expect that some birds were forced to relocate into the areas that remained untouched, perhaps increasing the chances of catching new birds.
Total: 5
Dartford Warbler - 5
For added value we also spoke to 11 members of the public about the work that we're doing and the birds of the common.