Halswell Quarry Thu 10 Oct. - A varied morning.

We had a session at the Quarry this morning and although not a big total it had some variety. A total of 31 birds of 10 species caught but only 28 processed. The missing 3 birds were Californian Quail which unfortunately we do not have a permit to band here in Canterbury so they had to be let go without any bling.

Laura with the first of the Quail - a handsome male.

Of the 28 birds processed there were 22 new and 6 recaps. This included a new species for the site, a Magpie.

The first Magpie we have caught at the Quarry

Species caught and processed for the day were - (recaptures in brackets)

Song Thrush - 2 (0)

Starling - 2 (0)

Chaffinch - 1 (1)

Greenfinch - 5 (0)

House Sparrow - 7 (4)

Silvereye - 2 (1) a very small catch compared to recent months.

Dunnock - 1 (0)

Magpie - 1 (0)

After we had taken the nets down and  packed up a few of us checked out a couple of Welcome Swallow nesting sites. At the first we drew a blank but at the second we struck it lucky and caught a bird, the first Welcome Swallow for the year.

The First Welcome Swallow for the year.

Today's team. Kenny (on his knees), Phil on back left, Jan seated with our scribe Sandra and standing on the right Eleanor & Laura.