Recent Sightings

NameSightingDate
Simon RoddisA juvenile Little Stint was at sailing club this morning; it later flew towards Millfields with 3 Dunlin, 5 Ringed and 1 Little Ringed Plover. A Green Sandpiper was at the WLC and the Black-tailed Godwit still at Lane End. Nice juvenile-type Wheatear on the dam wall. Great Egret, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls all still present.02/10/2025
Simon RoddisSeveral late/long-stayers were still around this morning: Great Egret, Black-tailed Godwit, Oystercatcher, Little Ringed Plover, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, Common Tern. Finally caught up with 2 Stonechats from Sheepwash hide. At Lane End, 450 Teal, 3 Pintail and 21 Wigeon.01/10/2025
Simon RoddisA Rock Pipit flew S over Stones causeway at 09:55, typical autumn date. Off Stones island first thing, 2,000 Black-headed and 75 Common Gulls. Just 2 Pintail this morning, and 35 Wigeon. Long-stayers included the Great Egret, Common Tern, Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Ringed Plover and 3 Dunlin. 12 Skylarks over. c60 Linnets at sailing club and 10 Redpoll in WLC creek.30/09/2025
Dave NewcombeIn addition to Simon's earlier post. No sign of the recent Cattle Egret in its usual spots, despite several observers on site. 8 Grey Herons. 16 Pintail. 5 at Lane End + the 11 Simon found earlier. 3 Shoveler. Just 3 Lapwings. Peregrine and Red Kite at Sheepwash. A single Snipe there was hunkered down and seemingly invisible to the above Peregrine c20 yards away. The Snipe then took off and the Peregrine gave chase. Outcome unknown. 4 Stonechats at Sheepwash around the large boulders. Still 5 Chiffchaff including one in song. Kingfisher at Paul Stanley. The gull roost held 4'500 possibly 5'000 LBB Gulls. Adult Caspian Gull. 2 adult YLGulls. I was counting Common Gulls on the point to the right of Sheepwash. I got to 66 when they all took off. Numbers probably exceeded over 100. Not many BHGulls in.29/09/2025
Simon RoddisBird of the morning was a juvenile Black Tern which Dave Newcombe found off Millfields, still there to 09:00 at least. Juvenile Common Tern still too. 2 Redwing, Water Rail and Crossbill at Hopton reedbed early morning. 11 Pintail off Stones and 42 Wigeon at Sheepwash. Black-tailed Godwit again between Sheepwash and Lane End, and 6 Ringed, juvenile Little Ringed Plover and 3 Dunlin at sailing club. Great Egret still. 14 Common Gulls. 2 Willow Tits on Stones and 18+ Skylarks over, including a flock of 12 S. Wheatear on the dam wall. 8+ Redpoll.29/09/2025
Dave ArmittEarly afternoon visit 20 Meadow Pipit,8 little Grebe, 3 Grey Heron,1 Great White Egret, 50 Pied Wagtail, 1 Cattle Egret between sailing club and visitor centre catching insects, 3 Dunlin, 3 LRP, 2 Lapwing, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Garganey Wildlife Centre bay amongst the Mallards28/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret was still around Watersports this morning, plus a Great and 6 Little Egrets elsewhere around the res. The first Redwing of the autumn, plus 4 Crossbills, 4 Skylarks and a redhead Goosander, flew over Stones island. 7 Ringed Plover, juvenile Little Ringed and a Dunlin at sailing club and the Oystercatcher still at Watersports. c1,000 Jackdaws out of their roost early morning, 200 Pied Wagtails on the dam wall and a total of 30+ Siskins.27/09/2025
Neil Moulden (NJM)Cattle Egret still present, 3 Common Scoter off Stones Island at 10.20 hrs, 9 Ringed Plover and 5 Dunlin at Sailing Club.25/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Little Stint was still present this morning, initially at Millfields then flying to sailing club. The Cattle Egret was again around Watersports and adult Caspian Gull on the shore at Lane End. 3 Dunlin and 9 Ringed Plovers. Single Oystercatcher and Common Tern still. Tawny Owl and Kingfisher at Millfields first thing. Willow Tits on Stones and in WLC creek. Wheatear on the dam wall. Total of at least 100 Meadow Pipits. Redpolls over Stones and WLC creek.22/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret and Oystercatcher were at Watersports again early morning. At Millfields, 14 Ringed Plover, 6 Dunlin, Great Egret and Yellow Wagtail. Peregrine on pylon beyond WLC creek. At Sheepwash, single Red-crested Pochard and Pintail, 35 Wigeon, 25 Pochard and adult Yellow-legged and Great Black-backed Gulls.20/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret and Oystercatcher were still at Watersports this morning (and presumably the same Oystercatcher later at Millfields with 4 Dunlin and 15 Ringed Plover, per CA). Less movement than I'd have expected: 30 Swallows, 16 House Martins, 63 Meadow Pipits, 20 Linnet, 48 Siskin and a Redpoll. Mistle Thrush singing at Sheepwash.19/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret was again at Watersports early this morning. Vismig 0630-0900: 1 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 133 Swallows, 15 House Martins, 2 Grey Wagtails, 217 Meadow Pipits, 5 Chaffinch and 16 Siskin, all S or SW. 6 Pintail, 3 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers and adult Caspian Gull at Sheepwash. 15 Ringed Plovers at Millfields.18/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret was feeding on Watersports island early afternoon. 5 Pintail, 3 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers, single Common and Herring Gulls and 3 Yellow-legs at Sheepwash. 7 Ringed Plovers at Millfields. 2 Yellow Wagtails (Sheepwash and Millfields).17/09/2025
Simon RoddisEvening visit: 5,250 Lesser Black-backed Gulls came in to roost. 37 Barnacle Geese at Sheepwash (the feral flock returns!). Hobby over sailing club at dusk. 1 Ruff. 100 Swallows. The Cattle Egret reportedly still present.16/09/2025
Simon RoddisYesterday's Cattle Egret was at sailing club late morning, feeding well. Looked much happier than it did yesterday! A mobile female Common Scoter landed in front of Sheepwash early morning but flew to Fishtail and then towards the dam wall. 105 Greylags, 6 Pintail still and one female Red-crested Pochard. 1 Curlew flew N. Adult Caspian Gull from Lane End hide. Yellow Wagtail at sailing club.16/09/2025
Simon RoddisA site record 970 Teal this morning, over 900 of them at Millfields alone. Other duck included 7 Pintail, at least 18 Shoveler and 26 Wigeon, and a female Red-crested Pochard. 10 redhead Goosander flew up the res early morning. 76 Greylags. 18 Ringed Plovers (most of them juvs) at Millfields late morning. The juvenile Oystercatcher still, 2 Ruff and a Common Sandpiper. Adult Caspian Gull still. 50+ House Martins flew through. 70+ Meadow Pipits. First Redpoll of the autumn over Sheepwash. Clive had a Whinchat at sailing club mid-morning until it was flushed.14/09/2025
Neil Moulden (NJM)Osprey from Sheepwash Hide at 17.20 hours for 10 minutes before flying off towards the dam.12/09/2025
Simon RoddisAround 700 Teal were at Millfields this morning, plus the 6 Pintail and 11 Ringed Plovers. Oystercatcher still on Horseshoe island, 1 Snipe, 1 Ruff and 2 Common Sandpipers. 2 juvenile Common Terns still. 3 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Great Egret still. A bit of movement, with a total of 68 Meadow Pipits, 2 Yellow Wagtails, 20 Siskin, 4 Linnet and 3 Crossbills.13/09/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonNo sign of the ibises or yesterday's Manx Shearwater this morning. 33 Shoveler, 31 Wigeon and 3 Pintail at Sheepwash. Total of 6 Ringed and 4 Little Ringed Plovers. 1 Common Sandpiper and 2 Ruff. 2 juvenile Common Terns. Great Egret still. Pair of Peregrines playing with a Buzzard. 2 Willow Tits on Stones. Female/juv Wheatear at sailing club.12/09/2025
Dave Newcombe/Chris BrownManx Shearwater found on water at Sheepwash c17.50hrs. It was drifting and doing some flapping but was still present from Sheepwash car park c19.15 per Clive Ashton.11/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe 2 Glossy Ibises were still in front of Sheepwash hide this morning. 6 Pintail. 1 Red-crested Pochard. Single Ringed plover and Ruff. 3 probable Black-tailed Godwits briefly over Stones. Great Egret on Horseshoe island. Adult and juvenile Common Terns and 2 juvenile Arctics.10/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe 2 Glossy Ibises were still at Sheepwash this evening. 21 Wigeon. Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit from Sheepwash hide. c4,000 Lesser Black-backs came in to roost by 8pm. Adult Caspian, 5 Yellow-legged, 2 Common and 500 Black-headed Gulls.09/09/2025
Simon RoddisCarsi joined in the Glossy Ibis fun this morning, with 2 from Sheepwash hide, looking fairly settled to 11:00 at least. Earlier on, 507 Pied (site record) and 1 Yellow Wagtail left their roost on Watersports island. Supporting cast of 3 Shelduck, 4 Pintail, 7 Wigeon, 2+ Red-crested Pochard, 8 Lapwing and 2 Ruff at Sheepwash, Redshank at sailing club and Greenshank over WLC creek, 2 Common Terns and 23 Little Egrets.08/09/2025
Amanda PalethorpeBird walk for beginners. House sparrow, great egret, little egret, cormorant, mute swan, Canada goose, great crested grebe, black-headed gull, pied wagtail, carrion crow, buzzard, lesser black-backed gull, red kite, chiffchaff, goldfinch , swallow, oystercatcher, common gull, greylag goose, blue tit, great tit, coot, moorhen, woodpigeon, gadwall, greenfinch, long-tailed tit, robin, little grebe, mallard, tufted duck07/09/2025
Simon Roddis, Jon BradleyMonthly wildfowl count: 87 Canada, 89 Greylags, 21 Mute Swan plus 4 cygnets, 1 Shelduck, 40 Shoveler, 66 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, 380 Mallard, 518 Teal, 3 Red-crested Pochard, 84 Common Pochard, 236 Tufted, 1,343 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 29 Little Grebe, 36 GCGrebe, 5 Ringed and 3 Little Ringed Plovers, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 3 Greenshank, 1 Dunlin, 2 Common Terns, 64 Cormorants, 21 Little and 1 Great Egret, 10 Herons. 7 Curlew flew W.07/09/2025
Richard LoweOf special note from Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: Garganey (1) with Teal just off the shoreline in front of the hide; Pintail (2); YLGull (4) ads; GBBGull (1) ad; Common Gull (1) ad;06/09/2025
Simon RoddisA steady morning, but nothing exceptional. Wildfowl included 760 Canadas, 59 Greylags, 22 Mute Swans plus 4 cygnets, 1 Shelduck, 15 Shoveler, 380 Teal, 1 Red-crested Pochard and 34 Common Pochard. The Great Egret still. Kingfisher on the dam wall and Peregrine on pylon beyond WLC creek. Total of 9 Jays. At least 60 Swallows and 50 House Martins. Yellow Wagtail over Millfields. Totals of c35 Siskin and 200 Goldfinch.06/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe ringed Osprey was around again this morning, seen by Clive early on at Sheepwash and presumably the same bird later flying down the reservoir. At least 2 Pintail still, the juvenile Shelduck, 4 Red-crested Pochard and 400+ Teal at Millfields. Waders included 4 Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Ruff and 2 Greenshank. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 22 Little Egrets. Kingfisher below Middle Wood. Hirundines included a minimum of 85 Swallows and 100 House Martins. Reed Warbler still in Hopton reedbed and 2 Lesser Whitethroats in WLC fields. 1 Yellow Wagtail over and 18 Meadow Pipits heading south.05/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Wood Sandpiper was at Sheepwash early morning (per AHS) and later back at Brown Ale Bay, with a Dunlin, and an Osprey sat for at least a couple of hours on the east side - a different bird from yesterday as it had a blue ring on its left leg; yesterday's bird was unringed. Totals of 506 Teal, 35 Shoveler, at least 63 Gadwall, 4 Pintail, 4 Red-crested Pochard, 27 Common Pochard. Waders: 2 Greenshank, 3 Ruff, Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper and 5 Ringed Plover (CA). Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls at Sheepwash. Great Egret still. c200 Swallows. 371 Pied and 3 Yellow Wagtails off Watersports island early morning. A Tree Pipit over Millfields and 6 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall.04/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Wood Sandpiper was in its favoured spot again early this morning, but at one point flew past Sheepwash hide with a Dunlin. Other waders included 3 Greenshank and the Black-tailed Godwit (per AHS), Common Sandpiper, 5 Ringed Plover, 4 Ruff and the juvenile Oystercatcher still. The Osprey was sitting on the shore at Sheepwash early on, accompanied by 3 Carrion Crows. Wildfowl included 435 Teal, single Wigeon and Shelduck, 18 Shoveler and 4 Red-crested Pochard. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls at Sheepwash. Willow Warbler and Yellow Wagtail at Millfields. And for any exotic wildfowl fanciers, there was a Yellow-billed Teal (a South American species) among the 400 regular Teal at Millfields.03/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Wood Sandpiper (and a Dunlin) were still at Brown Ale Bay/Sheepwash spit this morning. Other waders included 3 Greenshank and 3 Common Sandpipers near Big Island, 7 Ruff along the dam wall, Black-tailed Godwit at sailing club and 5 Ringed Plover at Sheepwash. An Osprey flew down the east side at 11:00 and presumably the same bird was seen over Millfields by Mike Redfern a little later. Also at Millfields, 4 Pintail were the first of the autumn, plus a massive 303 Teal, juvenile Shelduck and 3 Red-crested Pochard. Juvenile Caspian Gull at Sheepwash. Green Woodpecker calling in Tail Bay. Reed Warbler singing quietly in Hopton reedbed, Common Whitethroat on Stones causeway and a female Redstart still in WLC fields. 15 Siskin over Millfields.02/09/2025
Dave ArmittEvening visit 7,Little Egret, 9 Grey Heron,20 Gadwall, 6 Teal, 1Pied wagtail, 14 Pochard, 20 Sand Martin , 1 Great White Egret, 8 Cormorant, 4 Ruff 2 at Mill fields 2 on the Dam wall, 10 Mute Swans01/09/2025
Richard LoweLate afternoon of note from Sheepwash Hide: Osprey (with small fish); Peregrine (ad male); GWEgret; Ringed Plover (2); Caspian Gull (2) (Ad plus possible Juv /hybrid); YLGull (2) (Ad plus Juv); Common Gull (Ad); Herring Gull (1).01/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Wood Sandpiper was again at Brown Ale Bay/Sheepwash spit this morning. From Sheepwash hide, juvenile Arctic Tern, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 5 Ringed Plover, a Dunlin and a juvenile Red Kite trying to extract some goodness from a crayfish claw. The 4 Red-crested Pochard still, latterly in Brown Ale Bay. Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Ruff and 3 Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall early morning. One Great and 19 Little Egrets. Alan S also had 2 Greenshank in BABay.01/09/2025
Gary AtkinsMillfields/dam wall: 3 Ruff (also 2 Ruff and 1 Snipe in a different location, so possibly up to 5 Ruff), Shelduck, 2 Little Egret. Activity in Swallow nest(s) on draw-off tower. Also thouggt I heard a distant Cetti's call (but not 100per cent sure).31/08/2025
Simon RoddisThe Wood Sandpiper was still at the outer edge of Brown Ale Bay/Sheepwash spit this morning. 3+ Greenshank were mobile and called in at various spots - perhaps there were more than 3. 2 Ruff and the Black-tailed Godwit still, a Common Sandpiper and at least 7 Snipe. A first-year Mediterranean Gull was on the dam wall early morning and the adult Caspian Gull from Sheepwash hide later on. 1,150 Canadas and 114 Greylags flew out over the dam wall early morning. 3+ Red-crested Pochard still, 31 Shoveler and 23 Pochard. Great Egret at Sheepwash. Peregrine, Hobby and Kestrel over/around WLC creek. Kingfisher at WLC. The annual Tree Pipit flew S over WLC fields mid-morning, Clive had 2 Meadow Pipits over the dam wall, and there were 5 Yellow Wagtails there too. Female Redstart still in WLC fields.31/08/2025
Richard LoweLate afternoon of note from Sheepwash Hide: GWEgret (1); YLGull (5) 3-juvs + 2-Ads; Common Gull (1) Ad; GBBGull (2) Juv + Ad; Ringed Plover (3); LRP (4) Ad + 3 chicks/juvs;30/08/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Wood Sandpiper was in Brown Ale Bay this morning, though you had to get the right angle to see it! The female-type Goldeneye was also there, and a first-year Mediterranean Gull at Sheepwash early morning. Black-tailed Godwit still in BABay and Ruff and Greenshank at Sheepwash. 4 female/juv Red-crested Pochard again. 158 Teal and 18 Shoveler. One Great and 15 Little Egrets. 8 Jays, including 6 together at Hopton end. Yellow Wagtail at the north end and at least 1 Crossbill in the top of Hall Wood.30/08/2025
Simon RoddisClive and Alan saw the Wood Sandpiper at Sheepwash early morning, and a Greenshank dropped in there later. The Osprey was around again and caught a fish at around 9 and apparently another at 11. A female/juv-type Goldeneye was off Stones, perhaps the same bird as appeared a couple of times in July. 389 Pied and 7 Yellow Wagtails left their roost on Watersports island early morning, along with 25 Swallows. Totals of 22 Shoveler, 23 Pochard and at least 2 Red-crested Pochard. 2 Ruff and 8 Snipe at sailing club. 1+ Ringed Plover, and 6 Little Ringed (plus chicks) again at Sheepwash/Brown Ale Bay. 2 Great Egrets, 13 Little Egrets and 17 Grey Herons. Common Whitethroat in WLC creek and Alan had a Garden Warbler at Sheepwash. 150 Goldfinches on Stones.29/08/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Wood Sandpiper was visible from Sheepwash hide all morning, albeit that the shoreline is some distance away at the moment. Other waders: 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 6 Little Ringed Plovers (plus 3 large chicks), Green and Common Sandpipers, 2 Ruff, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 10 Snipe and a fly-through Greenshank. 4 female/juv Red-crested Pochard were at sailing club early on and later at Millfields. 16 Shoveler. 29 Pochard. Adult Caspian Gull from Sheepwash early morning, and 5 Yellow-legs. 2 Great and 16 Little Egrets. Male and female Redstart and a Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields. 100 Goldfinches on Stones.28/08/2025
Richard LoweFrom Sheepwash Hide late this afternoon: Wood Sandpiper (juv); Ringed Plover (1) Ad; LRPlover (4) - an adult plus 3 chicks/juvs, almost certainly the same ‘family’ as noted last week. Caspian Gull (Ad) (regular bird); YLGull (3) Ads; GBBGull (1) Ad; Osprey - disappeared towards the Visitor Centre then seen later with a small fish over Fishtail Creek.27/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonStar bird this morning was a Whinchat on the fence down the side of the overflow carpark, first of the year to the best of my knowledge. Waders comprised 2 Oystercatchers, 1 Lapwing, 1 Ringed Plover, 2 Ruff, 1 Dunlin, 1 Black-tailed Godwit and 7 Snipe. 2 female-type Red-crested Pochard were at the sailing club end of the dam wall. 12+ Shoveler. 1 Common Tern. 45 Cormorants. 10 Little Egrets flew in over WLC creek early morning. 2 Great Egrets. Lesser Whitethroat and female Redstart in WLC creek. Kingfisher in Shiningford creek.27/08/2025
Simon RoddisA total of 20 Whimbrel, including a flock of 17, flew SW this morning, a new site record. Other waders: 1 Ringed and 3 Little Ringed Plovers, 1 Lapwing, 5 Snipe, 2 Ruff and 2 Dunlin. Totals of 169 Teal and 14+ Shoveler. 32 Common Pochard and the female Red-crested at Millfields. 10 Swift over Millfields, my first here for over 2 weeks. 2 Common Terns. 2 adult Great Black-backs. Great Egret again in Brown Ale Bay. 40 Swallows. Common Whitethroat and female Redstart in WLC fields. Yellow Wagtail at Millfields. 15+ Crossbills in the top of Hall Wood.26/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonPresumably the same Osprey as the last couple of days again for at least an hour this morning, hovering several times but we didn't see it catch anything. Three Peregrine sightings, quite possibly more than one bird. 1,200 Canadas and 174 Greylags out over the dam wall early morning. Total of 17 Shoveler, and 19 Pochard at Millfields. Black-tailed Godwit again at sailing club/dam wall, at least 3 Ruff, Ringed Plover, Dunlin, 5 Snipe. Great Egret around Sheepwash. Kingfisher at Millfields. 2 Redstarts and a Spotted Flycatcher in WLC fields, and another Redstart in front of the cafe at the main centre. 2 Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall.25/08/2025
Richard LoweFrom Sheepwash Hide of note this afternoon: Osprey (adult) fishing on and off for at least an hour; LRPlover - an adult plus two chicks/juvs, likely the same family as recent weeks albeit one chick down; Curlew (2); Ringed Plover (1); GWEgret (1); YLGull (1); The Osprey put paid to any gulls on the bank.24/08/2025
Simon RoddisA pretty decent morning. An Osprey flew past Stones and landed in a tree near Fishtail Creek; Paul Bennett saw presumably the same bird later from Sheepwash. A Marsh Harrier flew south just before 10:00 and kept on going. Duck included 149 Teal and 11 Shovelers. Waders included a Black-tailed Godwit again, 2 Ruff at Sheepwash, Dunlin, Ringed and Little Ringed Plovers, Snipe, Common Sandpiper and Oystercatcher. Adult Caspian Gull off Stones. One Great and 16 Little Egrets. 2+ Willow Tits on Stones. c50 Swallows and 70 House Martins.24/08/2025
Simon RoddisA summer-plumage Black-tailed Godwit was at sailing club/dam wall this morning and the Ruff still at Sheepwash. Other waders were Ringed Plover, 4 Little Ringed Plovers, Dunlin, 2 Snipe and 2 Oystercatchers. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls and the Great Black-back again. 220 Pied and 1 Yellow Wagtail left the roost on Watersports island early morning. Common Whitethroat again in WLC creek and 4 Willow Warns at various spots.23/08/2025
Richard LoweFrom Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: Ruff (f), Ringed Plover, LRPlover; YLGull (4+) - 3+(Ads) and a Juv, Common Gull juv, GBBGull Juv.22/08/2025
Simon RoddisTwo Ospreys appeared over the res just after 10:15, one of them soon catching a fish and carrying it away while being chased and harried by Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Ruff at Sheepwash (found by R&A). 43 Greylags, the juvenile Shelduck still and a fleeting visit by 7 Goosander, presumably a family group. Adult Common Tern. 2 Great and 20 Little Egrets. 44 Cormorants. c50 Swallows and 40 House Martins. In WLC creek, at least 6 Blackcaps and single Common and Lesser Whitethroats feeding on berries, and another Common on Stones. Sedge Warbler on Stones. At least 2 Wheatears on the dam wall (plus 2 at Sheepwash later, per Clive A) and 7 Yellow Wagtails (6 on the dam wall, 1 over WLC creek). Also Siskin over WLC creek. SJR, AHS, RPJ, AMD22/08/2025
Simon RoddisA Turnstone, Sanderling, Ringed Plover and Dunlin were around the sailing club end of the day wall this morning, but none appeared to stay long. Adult Caspian, Yellow-legged, Great Black-backed and Common Gulls. Possibly 2 female Red-crested Pochard, Horseshoe and Flat Islands. 1 Shelduck, looked like an adult female.21/08/2025


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
30/12/2024Red throated diver still off Stones Island this morning.Matthew Birkin
29/12/2024This morning at Carsington, 26 Wigeon, Great Northern Diver, Kingfisher, 16 Goldeneye, 2 Redkite, 2 Pintail, all from Stones Island, 4 Common Snipe at WLC, 1 Peregrine and Red Throated Diver from Dam wall.AHS, CA.
28/12/2024Common gull, Pintail, Pochard at Wildlife Centre. Kingfisher, Goldeneye and 8+ Redpoll around Stones Island.Matthew Birkin
27/12/2024Willow tit on feeders around 11.45Andy Johnson
25/12/2024Both the GN and Red-throated Divers still this morning, the GND well north of Stones and the RtD still off the east side north of Millfields. 29 Barnacle Geese. 125 Woodpigeons N. 1 Golden Plover over the dam wall. 25+ Snipe on Horseshoe island first thing. c4,000 Common Gulls and 500 Jackdaws out of their respective roosts. 5 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall. 20+ Siskin and a Water Rail in WLC creek. Compliments of the season, everyone!Simon Roddis
24/12/2024The Red-throated Diver was still present this afternoon to 4pm at least, frequenting the east side between Fishtail Creek and Millfields (viewed from Stones). GNDiver still too. 1,032 Pochard - 802m,230f, an overall ratio of near enough 4.5:1, although the ratio at WLC/Shiningford was less than 2.4:1 - explain that if you can! Adult Yellow-legged Gull at sailing club (found by Richard Lowe). 191 roosting Lesser Black-backs. 40 Cormorants.Simon Roddis
24/12/2024From Paul Stanley Hide this morning, foggy conditions making difficult birdwatching conditions, however, Pochard 129+, Teal 45, Wigeon 10, Lapwing 20, Little Egret, Grey Heron ,Black Headed Gulls, Common Gulls and Lesser Black Backed Gulls.AHS
23/12/2024Another Monday, another Red-throated Diver. Well, more likely the same one as last week, off Millfields this morning. The GNDiver north of Stones. Great Egret in flight off Sheepwash. Chiffchaff still on Stones. 6 Barnacle Geese. 2 Kingfishers off Stones. At Hopton end first thing, 2 Woodcock, Water Rail and Kingfisher.Simon Roddis
20/12/2024The adult GNDiver from Stones again this morning. 4 adult Whooper Swans briefly but disturbed by a boat. 39 Teal. Kingfisher at Sheepwash. Pair of Peregrines over the north end. Chiffchaff again on Stones.Simon Roddis
19/12/2024From PS Hide 1400hrs: 1 GW Egret, 200+ Pochatd, 70 Tufted Duck, 50 Lapwing (on raft), 40-50 Coot, 10 Wigeon, 8-10 Mallard, 6 Gadwall, 6 Teal, 4 Little Grebe, 2 Mute Swan ... also 15 Cormorant (end of spit, viewed from Sheepwash).Gary Atkins
19/12/2024The adult GNDiver was off Stones island again this morning, a few raptors were enjoying the breeze, plus the 31 Barnacle Geese still. Otherwise a bit quiet.Simon Roddis
18/12/2024In addition to Simon's sightings, a male Goldeneye at the Hopton Arm, two Buzzard over the woods at the Hopton Arm end, at least one Teal at Paul Stanley hide. Also too distant to say which, but a skein of 34 geese flying SSE.Stephen Plant
18/12/2024The adult GNDiver was off Stones island all day. Total of 1,014 Pochard spread around the res (new site and county record). 31 Barnacle Geese. 12 Snipe at WLC. Water Rail in Hopton reedbed. Pair of Peregrines playing around with crows and Ravens over Watersports island. Chiffchaff on Stones. 25 Siskin at WLC. Adult Caspian and 6 Herring Gulls in the roost off Stones late afternoon.Simon Roddis
17/12/2024The adult GNDiver was again off Stones island this morning but no sign of yesterday's Red-throated Diver, although the murky conditions didn't help. 3 Woodcock at Millfields first thing.Simon Roddis
16/12/2024A double diver day: as well as the adult Great Northern, a winter plumage adult Red-throated Diver was off Millfields this morning to 11:15 at least. 31 Barnacle Geese. 46 Pink-footed Geese flew E. 8 Goosander (7+1) flew through. c4,000 Common Gulls flew out of the roost early morning, believe that's a new county record. Kingfisher(s) at WLC/Stones. 188 Woodpigeons N. Chiffchaff still on Stones island. 60 Redwing. 4 Linnet S over WLC creek.SJR, CA, AHS
15/12/2024Highlight of this morning's monthly wildfowl count was the returning adult Great Northern Diver, for around the 15th winter in succession. 155 Canada, 46 Greylags, 5 Mute Swan, 48 Gadwall, 32 Wigeon, 139 Mallard, 2 Pintail, 36 Teal, 888 Pochard, 377 Tufted, 17 Goldeneye, 14 Moorhen, 1377 Coot, 29 Little Grebe, 50 GCGrebe, 38 Lapwing, 10 Snipe, 1 Redshank, 23 Cormorant.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
14/12/2024112 Pink-footed Geese flew E in 3 skeins this morning. Adult Caspian Gull again. c2,000 Common Gulls flew out early morning. 100 Woodpigeons N. Woodcock roosting in Hopton reedbed. Redshank at sailing club. Raptors enjoying the breeze included 4 Sparrowhawks and a Peregrine, plus 10 Ravens.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
11/12/2024Pretty similar today, but Lapwings up to 91, total of 16 Goldeneye, 85 Starlings W, Chiffchaff still on Stones, and Clive had 8 Goosander early on.Simon Roddis
10/12/2024A coordinated count of 924 Pochard this morning, we believe that's a county record. 14 Goldeneye. At least 2,000 Common Gulls flew out post-roost. Adult Peregrine over the main centre. Kingfisher at Paul Stanley. 15+ Redpolls feeding on StonesSJR, CA, AHS
09/12/2024Windy, wet and cold at Carsington this morning, so a day for using the hides, Paul Stanley and Sheepwash. About 400 Pochard in Brown ale bay, 24 Teal, Kingfisher showing well infront of Paul Stanley hide, 1 Goosander, a Redkite over Blackwell Plantation plus all the usual suspects.AHS, CA.
08/12/2024A site record (and county record) 858 Pochard this morning. All the birds were sheltering from the wind in 3 groups, (Paul Stanley, Sheepwash, Wildlife centre). Also 9 Goldeneye.Clive Ashton
06/12/2024Best bird this morning was a Great Egret which flew SE, perched up for a bit and then returned NW! Kingfisher and Shoveler at WLC. 10 Goldeneye. 62 GCGrebe. 23 Little Grebe. 10 Skylarks N over WLC and c30 Siskin in the alders. Chiffchaff again on Stones causeway.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
05/12/2024This morning from Stones Island, 7 Goldeneye, Redkite, 2 Willow Tits, Common Buzzard and two Ravens. From the WLC, Three Common Snipe, 32 Lapwing, 2 Mandarin ducks, 1 Goosander plus all the usual waterfoul.AHS, CA.
04/12/2024An adult Kittiwake was off Middle Wood early morning but not seen again. A mobile drake Pintail flew over the main centre and was at Millfields for a while. 12 Goldeneye. 20 Lapwing. 5 Snipe. Chiffchaff on Stones causeway. 12 Redpolls on Stones. Alison and Roger had 6 Woodcock flypasts at Millfields at first light.Simon Roddis
02/12/2024The female Ring-necked Duck was again at Millfields this morning. A Woodcock flew into Hall Wood early am and the Water Rail showed well on Horseshoe island. Total of 60 Siskin, including 50 at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
01/12/2024Species seen during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners Walk (10am-noon; WLC to Stones Island): Goldfinch, Mute Swan, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Coot, Cormorant, Shoveler, Teal, Mallard, Great Tit, Robin, Gt Crested Grebe, Long-tailed Tit, Red Kite, Chaffinch, Moorhen, Blue Tit, Gadwall, Dunnock, Little Grebe, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Kestrel, Willow Tit, Pied Wagtail, Herring Gull, Blackbird, Lesser Redpoll, Woodpigeon, Wren, House Sparrow an Magpie (35)Gary Atkins
01/12/2024The female Ring-necked Duck was back at Millfields early afternoon today. 4 Goosander (3m,1f) there too. 8+ Goldeneye. The Egyptian Goose again flew in with Greylags. At least 225 Redwing between Fishtail and Millfields. 20 Redpoll again on Stones. 1150 Common and the adult Caspian Gull roosted.Simon Roddis
28/11/2024Didn't see the Ring-necked Duck this morning but she could easily still be around. 2 Woodcock, Water Rail and Great Egret at Hopton end early morning. 404 Woodpigeons and 12 Stock Doves N in 90 mins, plus 6 Stock S. The Redshank still around Stones causeway. 2 Chiffchaffs. 9 Redpolls on Stones.Simon Roddis
27/11/2024Afternoon visit: the Egyptian Goose flew in with Greylags late afternoon. Female Shoveler at WLC. 10+ Goldeneye. 600+ Pochard. 48 GCGrebes from Stones. Great Egret on the shore at Sheepwash. 30+ Greenfinches feeding in treetops above Hall Wood (highest number here since 1997). In the gull roost, 3,000+ Black-heads, c1,400 Common, 350 Lesser Black-backs, 4 Herring, 3 Yellow-legged and 1 adult Caspian.Simon Roddis
26/11/2024Little Egret flew over the road at the Knocker Down as I was driving to reservoir at 7:45am. Ring Necked Duck still present in Shinning Ford Creek with plenty of Birdwatchers getting excellent views, Waterrail was also seen from WLC showing very well, Redpolls on Stones Island, Redkite over Hall Wood, 2 Buzzard over the Wind Turbines and C A had 3 Pintail at Millfields.AHS, CA.
25/11/2024The female Ring-necked Duck had moved over to the Watersports/WLC area this morning and was very obliging for a while from the WLC. Redhead Goosander over Millfields. A bit of movement, with 216 Woodpigeons N, 270 Starlings W, 10 Fieldfare SW and 14 Skylarks mostly S. 41 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. Pair of Peregrines again. Chiffchaff on Stones causeway. Total of 10+ Redpolls around Stones/WLC.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
24/11/2024Clive relocated the female Ring-necked Duck among Tufteds at Millfields this morning. Pochard now up to 620 and at least 8 Goldeneye. 5 Herring Gulls flew S. 12 Collared Doves flushed by a Sparrowhawk behind Fishtail Creek. Chiffchaff at Millfields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
21/11/2024285 Pink-footed Geese flew SW in 4 skeins 1015-1045 this morning. Total of 105 Lapwing (72 down, 33 flew S). Redshank and drake Pintail still. Water Rail on Horseshoe island. 8 Redpolls on Stones. Total of 44 Fieldfare.SJR, AHS, CA
20/11/2024A bit quiet this morning but a Great Egret put in an appearance at the WLC, Water Rail called in the creek, female Shoveler, 2 Peregrines, 60 Lapwing, and a Brambling on Stones.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
18/11/2024Couldn't find yesterday's Ring-necked Duck this morning, and Pochard numbers looked a bit lower too. 2 Shoveler in Shiningford creek. 60 Lapwing. 2 Peregrines over WLC and Water Rail on Horseshoe island.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
17/11/2024Highlight of this morning's wildfowl count was a female Ring-necked Duck which Jon B found off Stones causeway; it then flew into Shiningford creek and was visible from the WLC. Only the second for Carsi. Other figures: 314 Canada, 2 Barnacle, 166 Greylags, 13 Mute Swan, 35 Gadwall, 36 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 74 Mallard, 52 Teal, 434 Pochard, 237 Tufted, 4 Goldeneye, 2 Water Rail, 24 Moorhen, 1127 Coot, 27 LGrebe, 54 GCGrebe, 64 Lapwing, 9 Snipe, 1 Redshank, 19 Cormorant.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
16/11/2024From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon of note in the gull roost: Caspian Gull (Ad); YLGull (2) Ads; GBBGull (Ad); Herring Gull (3) Ad, 3w; 1w.Richard Lowe
16/11/2024c500 Starlings came out of Hopton reedbed early morning, and Water Rail calling. 77 Lapwing at sailing club. 5 Goldeneye off Stones, a Dunlin flying around and a Chiffchaff calling. Total of 17 Ravens flew W. 100 Redwing N over WLC creek. 12 Redpoll, including 10 in Tail Bay.Simon Roddis
15/11/2024Afternoon visit: gull counts of c700 Common, 1,000 Lesser Black-backs and 7,000 Black-heads. 2 adult Yellow-legs. 2 Herring Gulls, my first here since June. 8 Dunlin in flight from Sheepwash hide and 6 Goldeneye (3m,3f) there.Simon Roddis
12/11/2024This morning from Stones Island, 234 Pochard, 365 Pink Feet Geese all heading east, 6 Redkite, 3 Ravens, 1 Red Crested Pochard, 1 Shoveller, 26 Wigeon and 4 SparrowhawksAHS, CA.
14/11/2024This morning from Stones Island, 10 Shelduck, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Whooper Swan, 2 Redkite at least over Fishtail creek and 50+ Lapwings around yatch club, 1 Yellow Legged Gull just off East bank. WLC ,6 Common Snipe and 19 Barnacle Geese including one of dubious heritage.AHS
12/11/2024From Sheepwash / Paul Stanley Hides late this afternoon: Whooper Swan (13) - distantl, off Fishtail creek then flew off to the south at c. 4pm. Mediterranean Gull 1st W; YL Gull (2) Ads; Goldeneye (4).Richard Lowe
08/11/2024Possible pair Slavonian grebe by dam seen from main visitor centre.Jonathan Lees
08/11/2024More Hawfinch action this morning: at least 2 at Millfields had probably been in the trees near the viewing area before flying out, then 2 S over WLC creek just after 10:00. Drake Pintail at Sheepwash and 2 drake Goldeneye off Sailing Club island. A Great Egret flew past WLC and Water Rail on Horseshoe Island. 32 Ravens, including a flock of 29, flew NE up the pastures. 32 Siskin at Millfields.Simon Roddis
07/11/2024Rather murky again this morning. 45 Chaffinches and 3 Brambling in an hour over Sheepwash. First Woodcock of the autumn/winter flushed from the path to Paul Stanley hide. Dodgy Pochard hybrid again from WLC.Simon Roddis
06/11/2024Off Sheepwash Hide late this afternoon: Caspian Gull (Ad); Goldeneye 1m. Large gull roost of Common Gull/Black-headed Gull/Lesser Black-backed Gull extending from off LaneEnd hide to the Dam wall - uncountable!Richard Lowe
06/11/2024Highlight this morning was 2 single Hawfinches SW over Hopton end and Sheepwash. 26 Wigeon. Drake Pintail at Shiningford. 2 Goldeneye (drake at Sheepwash, redhead off Stones). 2 redhead Goosander. Water Rail calling in Hopton reedbed. 50 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. Marsh Tit (returning bird?) calling along the path between Sheepwash and Paul Stanley. 400 Starlings came out of Hopton reedbed early morning. Totals of 82 Fieldfare and 70 Siskin.Simon Roddis
05/11/2024Off Sheepwash Hide late this afternoon (despite the fog): Mediterranean Gull (Ad); YL Gull 2 Ads; Goldeneye 1m.Richard Lowe
04/11/2024Nothing moving again in dull conditions this morning, but managed to drag out a first-winter Caspian Gull off Stones/Watersports, Brambling and Water Rail in WLC creek, drake Pintail and redhead Goldeneye at Sheepwash, Kingfisher and 50 Siskin at Millfields, and the Egyptian Goose flew up the res mid morning.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
03/11/2024November Birdwalk for beginners. house sparrow, mallard. coot. moorhen. tufted duck. black-headed gull. pochard. wigeon. teal. gadwall. gt cr grebe. little grebe. lapwing. lesser bb gull cormorant. Dunnock. robin. magpie. crow. kestrel. g s woodpecker. long-tailed tit. blue tit. wren. chaffinch. redwing. common gull. great tit. wood pigeon. blackbird. goldfinch. mute swan. Canada goose.Amanda Palethorpe

Scroll to Top