2003 -11 bird-days, from 29 Mar - 22 Aug, but this includes a record max 8 in the gales on 2 May, with just three singles on the other dates. No real sign of 'prospecting' this year - a loss of momentum for this species. Monthly maxima:

2002 - A record year by a long way, with 19 bird-days, from 16 Mar - 30 Aug, the earliest and latest records. Max 3 on 22 Apr. The frequency of what may well be the same birds returning to prospect could just be the first indications of breeding at this site, although no bird has yet actually set foot on land here.... but watch this space! Monthly maxima:

2001 - Just one in spring on 28 Apr and two on 25 Aug were the only records.

2000 - An excellent year. Singles on 24 Apr, 13 & 14 May, 2 June, 14 Aug and 17 Sep, with an unprecedented 3, a record max., on 31 July.

1983 - Singles on 28 Apr, 15 & 23 May.

1982 - Occasional singles in Weymouth Bay during the summer (DBR). Singles on 27 Apr and 5 Aug (JDM).