"Alan Gardiner" wrote in message
...

Not quite correct as there was a Wheatear seen in Lancashire on the 2nd of
March according to the BTO Birdtrack site but that is the only record.

Hi Alan,

Was there? -) I had not read that as yet and I also use that website for
news

Last year the first record was on the 4th and the 2nd on the 10th but the
first
part of March 2004 was on the cold side. In 2003 the main records started
on
the 7th after a few single earlier records. With the persistent north wind
it will be interesting to see the effect on the timing.

Alan

I reckon you should also check the Birdguides site, try using a search on
February Wheatears and you will be surprised, also not forgetting the books
suggest first arrivals occur in February also!

Either way, as you say, it will be interesting and my phenology sightings
will get a kick up the backside soon too.

Tony