8th March

Normal coverage resumed after yesterday's distractions and there was a fair spread of newcomers on show. Meadow Pipits made up the bulk of the numbers, with a steady northbound passage along West Cliffs for a good part of the day; Stonechats were the most conspicuous arrivals on the ground, with at least 20 at the Bill and a good scatter elsewhere, whilst variety came in the form of single Wheatears at the Bill, Blacknor and Ferrybridge, and the spring's first Firecrest at the Obs. The sea got in on the act with 15 Common Scoter, 13 Brent Geese and 11 Red-throated Divers through off the Bill. Lingering winterers included the Black Redstart and Blackcap at the Bill and the Black Guillemot off Portland Castle.