As we have slipped seamlessly into autumn the weather should improve. House Martins and Swallows gather in small flock by the river. It is early yet, but it is probably that small parties are heading south for the winter. There is anticipation of movement and migration in the air. As I walked out with the whippets this morning a group of Golden Plover flew over, their whistling call gently descending. Are these early winter arrivals or, more likely, movements between UK sites?

It is the time to keep an eye open for migrating birds of prey. Anything can turn up over the next two months. The Hobby will follow the Swallows. Buzzards will ride the thermals and Ospreys may call in to the Broads in late September.