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

2002 saw a few February records so what you say is correct; the Lancashire
bird probably turned up on the south coast close to the end of February as
well. None in Hertfordshire reported to me so far but thatis not a great
surprise.

Little Ringed Plovers should also be making an appearance soon; it will be
intersting to see if the current blocked weather stup up delays their
return.



Alan Gardiner
Chiswell Green, St Albans
N51:44 W00:21
101m ASL