The week started off with the final day of the Bird Observatory conference - another full day that started with some migration watching at the tip of Falstebo. Though it was not a 'big day' for migrants it was still enjoyable enough, with groups of up to 20 Honey Buzzard drifting south and a steady stream of Sparrowhawk, along with good numbers of waders and wildfowl in the shallow water. While we watched the birds Kay had a walk along the shore looking for Amber - the beach can deliver occasional pieces but normally after winter storms.

After another series of talks and discussions we started the long trip home (that is to Landsort!!) at about 1500, with Pelle and Monica sharing the driving. The plan was to have reached Ankerudden, the nearest harbour by 2230 when the local pilot boat was happy to pick Kay and I up to take us out to Landsort. Despite some hectic driving, it was looking like we would miss the boat, so Tore kindly offered to come and collect us in his small boat. As it turned out the pilot could have collected us, but in a way we were glad to be picked up by Tore as we were all rewarded with a trip back taking 1/2 hour under a clear sky, with a flat clam Baltic and the only lights being the stars and the occasional navigation buoy, with the lighthouse in the shrinking distance - a great way to get back. A huge thanks to Pelle, Monica and Tore for making sure we got back in time to open the nets at 0430 the next morning, so only one days ringing was lost.

Sadly, when we got back at 2300 we were greeted by unwashed dishes, unswept floors and a dirty kitchen. Shame those who stayed for the weekend did not have the decency to leave the place like we left it for them!!!

Birding was quiet with just over 200 new birds caught, though some nice birds among that with another Bluethroat for Kay, decent numbers of Blackcap and Lesser Whitethroat and signs that migration is gathering pace!