We needed to try to retrieve the GPS trackers today, so against our better judgement and despite the strong wind gave it a go.
The first nest went very well, female retrapped and tracker retrieved. Two chicks also ringed.
First tracker retrieval accomplished
The second nest was in a much too windy location, and as she is still on eggs we'll try her tomorrow.
The third nest had a sitting bird that we managed to catch. However, it turned out to be the male rather than female. He was not GPS tagged as the chicks have virtually no down left and are fully feathered. They should fledge soon and tracking him is likely to result in non-retrieval of the GPS device. We'll look again tomorrow to see if she is back.
He was a recapture, ringed on the nest on 24th June 2016.
We also ringed and wing-tagged a nest of three Marsh Harrier. All were males.
Totals: 7 (2)
Marsh Harrier - 3 pulli
Nightjar - 4 pulli (2 adults, 1 had GPS tracker retrieved)