Lower Wharfedale... an army of Swifts 02-08-2009

Decided to test a new lowland area with wide vista along the river, up and across Lower Wharfedale including the Chevin, Ilkley Moor and Riffa Ridges,(though just out of the BOG area). The idea was to see movement along this main E/W dale, especially as migration or in this case dispersal is known to follow water courses and roads.
Whilst the first 45 mins were quiet with just local house martin and swallow, a broad front of swifts appeared moving west-north west both along the river (taking water) and along the ridges taking advantage of the wind, most low down. There were so many it was impossible for me to get accurate numbers as the skies were full, but I guess easily in excess of 1000. By 11:45 all had moved through. Also interesting were movement of wood pigeon (west and east) and finches (west) following the line of the river. Definitely one I'll try again.

09:00 - 12:00 W F3 15C >15m, 4/8

Swift 1000+W-NW
Chaffinch 6W
Goldfinch 2W
Greenfinch 2W
Woodpigeon 15W 12E
Swallow 5W (though many local)
House Martin 12W (though many local)
LBBG 5NW, high
BHG 70W, low

J. Blacker