April in between migration and weather swings

The first half of April on Ponza was characterised by a typical spring migration pattern: a continuous alternation between variable weather conditions and sudden peaks in activity, with very intense days followed by slower periods.

After a still uncertain start, with unstable weather and few captures, the arrival of high pressure quickly changed the scenario. The first sunny days brought a recovery in migration, initially with modest numbers and common species such as blackcap, alongside the first interesting seasonal records, including Dartford warbler and wood warbler.

As stable weather settled in, the island experienced a prolonged and intense موج of migration. For several consecutive days, very high numbers of birds were ringed, with peaks of up to around 1,000 individuals per day. Robins dominated the catches, especially during the night, accompanied by large numbers of chiffchaff, willow warbler and redstart. Among these, noteworthy species included red-rumped swallow, black-eared wheatear, nightingale and the iconic collared flycatcher, a true symbol of the station.

Subsequently, despite continued favourable weather, numbers gradually declined, with a shift in species composition: robins decreased while species such as subalpine warbler and willow warbler became more prominent. During this phase, several new species were added to the seasonal list, including whinchat, garden warbler and spotted flycatcher, along with interesting records such as a yellow wagtail of the thunbergi subspecies and a chiffchaff ringed in Sweden.

A new spell of bad weather did not completely halt migration: even under deteriorating conditions, very productive days were recorded, with over 800 individuals ringed and new arrivals such as bee-eater and kestrel (the latter carrying a German ring). However, wind and rain subsequently forced partial net openings and a temporary drop in activity.

As often happens, migration quickly resumed with the return of good weather. The following days again exceeded 300 individuals, enriched by several seasonal firsts including golden oriole, great reed warbler and nightjar, alongside a steady presence of pied flycatchers, whinchats and wood warblers. Notably, the second red-rumped swallow of the season was also recorded.

In the most recent days, with conditions now more stable, migration has continued at a steady but less intense pace, with around 250 individuals per day. Among the latest arrivals were Moltoni’s warbler and woodchat shrike, confirming that the season is now in full swing.

Overall, this period once again highlights how closely migration on Ponza is linked to weather conditions: sudden “bursts” of arrivals alternate with quieter moments, making each day unique and full of surprises.