Hume's Warbler + Stejneger's Stonechat, Easington 10th November 2019

A trip over to the East coast was required on Sunday morning since both Hume's Warbler and Siberian/Stejneger's Stonechat were present near Spurn at Easington along Eastfield Road (also known as Peter Lane). Setting off early I arrived on site mid-morning.

As it turned out both birds were within 50yds of each other. The Hume's Warbler gave excellent views as it made its way to and fro along the hedge bordering Peter Lane, whilst the 'Eastern' Stonechat stayed around the flooded field close to some farm buildings.

Photo of Hume's Warbler by Simon Knight.

Whether the 'Eastern' Stonechat is Siberian or Stejneger's is someting only DNA analysis or in-the-hand obsevations will be able to tell. One of the Spurn Observatory members was trying to trap the chat, but I don't know whether he was successful. At present its identity is undecided.

Photos of 'Eastern' Stonechat by Simon Knight: Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3 | Photo 4

I headed for Spurn Point and as I approached Kilnsea Wetlands I noticed a group of birders looking at something opposite the Wetlands Centre. I pulled over to find they were watching a Black Brant with its hybrid offspring. A new bird for me, but only the American subspecies of Brent Goose, of which there were many present.

Update: 6th December 2019 - DNA confirmation of the Easington chat as Stejneger's Stonechat.