A large shearwater went south past Whitburn this morning, infuriatingly too far out to identify. It took a good 15 mins to pass, gliding a meandering path with the occasional burst of 2-3 wing beats to keep it aloft. A small white patch at the base of the tail could be made out, but it was too distant to get any further detail. After watching a few videos on Youtube I think it was most probably a Cory's, but it will remain one that got away.
Not the best conditions for seawatching, but it was nice being warm sitting in the obs. As well as the mystery shearwater, a bit went past. 6 Manx Shearwater, a Red-throated Diver, a Grey Wagtail and 4 Whimbrel were the highlights.
This afternoon I was on my way to Derwent Reservoir when I got the news of a White-winged Black Tern at Saltholme. After an about-turn the bird was showing well, although distantly from the road on Back Saltholme. Constantly on the move, hawking low over the pond, it was looking splendid in its spanking summer plumage. My first year tick for ages.
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