Recent Sightings

DateSightingName
12/08/2026The Wood Sandpiper was still around Horseshoe island this morning, along with much of its supporting cast, including 6 Green Sandpipers, 2 Ruff, Ringed Plover, 4 LRP and a Curlew. 6 Shoveler. 96 Teal around Brown Ale Bay, and the female Red-crested Pochard there too. In one hour early morning, 159 Woodpigeons flew S and 19N, plus 14 Stock Doves S. Single adult Caspian, Yellow-legged and Great Black-backed Gulls. 36 Cormorant. The Great Egret again, 11 Little Egrets and 12 Grey Herons. Kingfisher in WLC creek. Redstart and Wheatear in WLC fields. Yellow Wagtail over Stones island. Unfortunately, a paddleboarder caused huge disturbance of the waterfowl around Sheepwash and BABay. I don't know if they're allowed that far up the res but I'll certainly be raising it with STW.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
11/08/2026The juvenile Wood Sandpiper was still in the Watersports area this morning, along with Ruff and Greenshank. 6+ Dunlin, 4 Green and 7 Common Sandpipers. 3 juvenile Shelduck on Watersports island late morning. Single Shoveler and Wigeon at WLC. Adult Common and Yellow-legged Gulls and first-summer Great Black-back. 2 Peregrines over the north end. c100 Swallows at the draw-off tower. Garden warbler on Stones island, and another birder had a juvenile Wheatear.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
10/08/2026Waderfest continued this morning: Wood Sandpiper still around Horseshoe island, a moulting adult Sanderling at sailing club, probably 2 each of Ruff and Greenshank, 10 Dunlin, at least 3 Green Sandpipers. 4 Shoveler in Brown Ale Bay. 2 juvenile Common Terns off Stones. Adult Caspian Gull on Horseshoe island. Peregrine over the north end. Total of 4 Willow Tits. Garden Warbler and Whitethroat on Stones. Family party of 5 Spotted Flycatchers near Lane End bombing tower.SJR, AHS, MW
09/08/2026Wood Sandpiper was a welcome addition to the roll call of waders this morning, initially on Watersports island and later on the sailing club side of Stones causeway. Total of 7 Green Sandpipers (another new record), Greenshank, Ringed Plover, 2 LRP, 5 Common Sandpipers, 6 Dunlin. At least 5 Shoveler, the Wigeon still and the 2 eclipse male Red-crested Pochard. The Great Egret still and 14 Little Egrets. Kingfisher at sailing club. Whitethroat in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
08/08/2026The second-summer Mediterranean Gull was again on the dam wall early morning. Waders included 6 Green and 3 Common Sandpipers, 2 Greenshank, 11 Dunlin, Ringed Plover and 3 Little Ringed. Great Egret still. 3 Garden and at least 6 Sedge Warblers on Stones.Simon Roddis
07/08/2026From Sheepwash Hide of note this afternoon: YL Gull (2) Juvs; RC Pochard (2) eclipse drakes; Peregrine; Green Sandpiper (1); From Watersport's Is / Stones Is causeway early evening: Green Sandpiper (4+); Common Sandpiper (6+); Dunlin (8); Greenshank (1) juv; Redshank (1) juv; Ringed Plover (2); Bl T Godwit (1) Ad; Snipe (1);Richard Lowe
07/08/2026A pretty productive morning, starting with a second-summer Mediterranean Gull on the dam wall and a female Common Scoter off sailing club island. Waders included 2 Ringed Plover, 3 Little Ringed, 5 Green Sandpipers (a new site record), 8 Common Sandpipers, 10 Dunlin and a Greenshank. 21 Mute Swans plus the 3 cygnets. Female-type Wigeon in WLC creek. 2 Shoveler. The Great Egret still. Kingfisher at Millfields. 120 Swallows on the dam wall. Common Whitethroat on Stones and a Redstart in WLC fields. Total of 6 Grey Wagtails and 50+ Pied.SJR, CA, AHS
06/08/2026There must have been a small arrival of waders overnight, with at least 8 Common Sandpipers, 2 Green Sandpipers, 3 Dunlin, a Turnstone and Little and Common Ringed Plovers mainly around Stones/Watersports. 6 adult Arctic Terns flew S past Stones at 07:55. 2 Common Terns. 71 Teal is also an increase since yesterday. 2 Shoveler at sailing club. 16 Little Egrets and the Great Egret still. Kingfisher in Brown Ale Bay. Hobby flew low up the res past Stones. Small numbers of hirundines on the move.Simon Roddis
05/08/2026From Sheepwash hide late afternoon, 6 Yellow-legged Gulls, 2 Caspian (adult and juvenile) and juvenile Common Gull. 53 Teal and Green Sandpiper in Brown Ale Bay.Simon Roddis
05/08/2026Shorter than usual visit this morning. Green Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Snipe in Brown Ale Bay. 3 Black-tailed Godwits, 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Dunlin and 2 Ringed Plover around Watersports island. Redshank and Great Egret off Stones causeway. Green Woodpecker and Whitethroat at Hopton end. 41 Teal. Willow Warbler and Willow Tit on Stones.Simon Roddis
04/08/2026From Sheepwash Hide of note late afternoon: YLGull (5) - Ad (3); 1st s; Juv; GBBGull 1st s; plus Wigeon (female/juv).Richard Lowe
04/08/2026A Turnstone flew over the dam wall at 06:35 and later over Stones with a flock of Lapwings at 08:50. A Green Sandpiper was on Watersports island and later in front of the WLC. Other waders included 3 juvenile LRPlover, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Curlew. 3 Red-crested Pochard (2m,1f) in sailing club bay. 1 Shoveler. 3 Common Terns. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. Great White Egret again. Willow Tit near WLC. c100 Swallows at the draw-off tower early morning and a total of c75 House Martins. 2 Garden Warblers, a Whitethroat and a Willow Warbler on Stones. Redstart and Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
03/08/2026From Sheepwash Hide early evening, gulls of note on the spit: Caspian Gull (1st s); YL Gull (5) - Juv (2), 1st s (2), Ad (1); Common Gull (Juv) - my first of the autumn; GBBGull (1st s).Richard Lowe
03/08/2026Green Woodpecker and Kingfisher at Hopton end first thing. Willow Tit in Brown Ale Bay and 17 Mistle Thrushes at Sheepwash. Around Stones and Watersports, Egyptian Goose, Oystercatcher, 25 Lapwing, Ringed Plover, 2 juvenile Little Ringed Plover, Redshank, Snipe, Great Egret and Whitethroat. Juvenile Peregrine buzzing Horseshoe island. Willow Warbler and Clouded Yellow in WLC creek.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
02/08/2026GW Egret and YL Gull (Ad) from Sheepwash Hide late afternoon; Dunlin (2) (Ad and Juv) off Stones Is causeway.Richard Lowe
02/08/2026Species noted during today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Canada Goose, Mallard, Coot, Black-headed Gull, Tufted Duck, Little Grebe, Pied Wagtail, Willow Tit, Blckbird, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper, Common Tern, Gt Crested Grebe, Long-tailed Tit, Treecreeper, Magpie, Swift, Chiffchaff, Woodpigeon, Linnet, Sedge Warbler, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Robin, Carrion Crow, Goldfinch, Blackcap, Red Kite, Moorhen, Mute Swan, Wren, Swallow, Greylag Goose, Grey Heron, Gt White Egret, Little EgretGary Atkins
02/08/20262 Greenshank were on Horseshoe island but were flushed and went around the back of Watersports island. A Great Egret flew in and landed at Lane End. 3 Shoveler at WLC. Small numbers of Woodpigeons moving already, 74 S and 20 N 06:00-07:00. Single Snipe, Redshank and Oystercatcher from Stones causeway. The adult Caspian Gull again at Watersports and the Yellow-leg at Sheepwash. 2 Kingfishers in Tail Bay and 150 Swallows on the dam wall early morning. Willow Tit at Sheepwash. Reed Warbler and Whitethroat on Stones.Simon Roddis
01/08/2026An adult Sandwich Tern was off Millfields early morning, last seen (by us, at least) from Stones island, gaining height at 08:55. Pair of Common Terns too. At Watersports, adult Caspian Gull and single Oystercatcher and Redshank. One Ringed Plover over Millfields. Female Shoveler from WLC. 26 Teal. 10 Little Egrets. Juvenile Peregrine at Sheepwash and a family party (3+) of Spotted Flycatchers in the wood there. Willow Tits on Stones and at WLC. 55 House Martins over the main centre. Reed and Willow Warblers on Stones. 2 Redstarts in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
31/07/2026A few waders today, the best being a Turnstone which flew in and appeared to land on the back of Watersports island at 08:30. Two Black-tailed Godwits flew SE off the dam wall early on but there were then 3 on Watersports island. 3 juvenile Redshank were new, as was a juvenile Oystercatcher. 1 Curlew. Lapwings have increased to at least 22. Adult Caspian Gull still at Watersports. Eclipse male Shoveler still. 3 adult Common Terns. Willow Tits on Stones and in WLC creek. 100+ Swallows.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
30/07/2026An Avocet dropped onto sailing club shore just before 06:00 but soon flew south; however, presumably the same bird flew off Watersports island at 07:45, but we didn't see it again. Drake Common Scoter off Millfields. Adult Caspian Gull at Watersports late morning and the adult Yellow-legged Gull still too. 2 eclipse male Red-crested Pochard from WLC. 1 Shoveler off Stones. Pair of Common Terns still. Willow Tit on Stones causeway. 120 Swallows around the draw-off tower early morning, and a total of at least 45 House Martins. Willow Warbler again singing in WLC creek, and Dave H had a Redstart in the fields.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
29/07/2026A juvenile Spotted Flycatcher was near the WLC this morning (very thin on the ground here this year) and the adult Caspian Gull was again on Watersports island. A mobile Green Woodpecker at Millfields was perhaps the same bird as on 20 July, and a female Yellow Wagtail was on the viewing area. 20 Mute Swans, plus 3 cygnets still. 15 Little Egrets. Pair of Common Terns. 4 Common Sandpiper and the Redshank still. 2+ Garden Warblers on Stones and a Common Whitethroat in WLC fields. 2 Muntjac near Millfields island.Simon Roddis
28/07/2026This morning, 11 Teal, the female Red-crested Pochard from WLC, 6 Common Sandpiper, 1 Redshank, 3 Dunlin, 1 Common Tern, adult Yellow-legged Gull at Millfields, Willow Warbler singing in WLC creek, Garden Warbler on Stones, 16 Mistle Thrushes over Shiningford.Simon Roddis
27/07/2026From Watersports Is of note early this evening: Mediterranean Gull (Juv) still present, also seen here on 24th and 25th July.Richard Lowe
27/07/2026Another Marsh Harrier (the second in two days) flew SW at 10:40 this morning. A Peregrine also put in a couple of appearances. The female Red-crested Pochard was at Watersports. One Redshank, 5 Common Sandpipers, 2 Dunlin and 2 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls in Brown Ale Bay early morning. c12 Little Egrets. 26 Cormorants. 2+ Willow Tits (Stones and WLC). Reed Warbler with food in Hopton reedbed. Common Whitethroat in Warbler Corner on Stones.SJR, CA, MW
26/07/2026Bird of the morning was a Marsh Harrier which Alan Stewardson saw flying down the res from Sheepwash hide at 07:15. Waders included 6 Dunlin, 3 Black-tailed Godwits, 4+ Common Sandpiper and single Redshank and Oystercatcher. Adult Caspian Gull again on Watersports island. 3 Common Terns. 10+ Little Egrets.Simon Roddis
25/07/2026A drake Common Scoter was off Millfields this morning, and 3 juvenile Goosander off the dam wall. 20 Mute Swans. 2 adult Black-tailed Godwits in Brown Ale Bay, 3 summer plumage Dunlin on Watersports island, 1 Redshank and 4 Common Sandpiper. 3 Common Terns. 12 Little Egrets. Kingfisher in Tail Bay. 150 Swallows and a Skylark on the dam wall (I wonder if the Swallows had roosted there?). 10 Sedge Warblers around Stones island and a Garden Warbler in Warbler Corner.Simon Roddis
23/07/2026One Black-tailed Godwit was on Horseshoe island this morning. 5 Common Sandpipers and 1 Dunlin. Adult Caspian Gull at Watersports. Adult Yellow-legged Gull in Brown Ale Bay was turfed off its meal by a pair of Ravens. The female Red-crested Pochard is now also in BABay. 16 Pochard. 10+ Little Egrets and 9 Grey Herons. 120 Swallows around the draw-off tower early on. 2+ Garden Warblers on Stones.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
22/07/2026Gulls of note from Sheepwash Hide and Watersports Is / jetty this afternoon: Caspian Gull (3) - Ad (the ‘regular’ bird), 1st s, 3rd s (probable hybrid); YLGull (4) - Ad (2), 2nd s (2), Juv. ; GBBGull 1st s; Excellent views from Sheepwash Hide at the moment.Richard Lowe
22/07/2026Highlights this morning were a juvenile Mediterranean Gull (found by Mike Redfern) on Watersports island, a Whimbrel south over Stones island, 5 Common Terns (4 adults, 1 juv), 2 Shoveler still, 5 Common Sandpipers and the adult Yellow-legged Gull.Simon Roddis
21/07/2026From Sheepwash hide mid-afternoon of note, YLGull (5) - Juv (my first of the year), 1st s, 2nd s (2), Ad.Richard Lowe
21/07/20266 Black-tailed Godwits on Horseshoe island mid-morning had arrived in 2 groups of 3. Other waders were 1 Oystercatcher, 12 Lapwing, 2 Curlew, 1 Redshank, 1 Snipe and 5 Common Sandpipers. Adult Caspian, second-summer Yellow-legged and GBb Gulls at Watersports. 2 Common Terns. 2 Shoveler off Horseshoe island and a redhead Goosander flew N. The female Red-crested Pochard still at Shiningford but, sadly, she appears to have lost her ducklings. 10 Little Egrets. 2+ Willow Tits (Stones and WLC). c100 Swallows and 30 Sand Martins, mostly around the draw-off tower early morning. Willow Warbler at Millfields, 6 Garden Warblers on Stones and Sedge Warbler with food in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
20/07/2026A Green Woodpecker was calling at Millfields mid-morning and a juvenile Peregrine flew over. 18 Mute Swans plus 3 cygnets. Egyptian Goose at Watersports. 15 Teal. 12 Pochard. Single Curlew and Black-tailed Godwit and 2 each of Redshank and Common Sandpiper. The regular adult Caspian Gull off Watersports then from WLC. 3 Common Terns. 6 Little Egrets. 2+ Garden Warblers in Warbler Corner on Stones and a Whitethroat at Hopton reedbed.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
19/07/20262 Black-tailed Godwits this morning, one each on Horseshoe and Watersports islands. 3 Common Sandpipers and 5 Redshank. Female Red-crested Pochard still at Shiningford. Pair of Common Terns. 3 Little Egrets. Kingfisher from WLC. c20 Sand Martins. Yellow Wagtail over the dam wall, first of the autumn.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
18/07/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 819 Canada Geese, 134 Greylag, 1 Egyptian, 16 Mute Swan (plus 3 cygnets), 103 Gadwall, 260 Mallard, 1 Shoveler, 10 Teal, 15 Pochard, 134 Tufted, 20 Moorhen, 481 Coot, 11 Little and 55 GCGrebe, 3 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 15 Lapwing, 3 Common Sandpipers, 2 Redshank, 1 Dunlin, 2 Common Tern, 23 Cormorant (plus 7 over), 5 Little Egret, 4 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher, 2 Common Gull, 1 second-summer Yellow-legged and the probable Caspian x Yellow-legged hybrid.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
17/07/202620 Swift, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Reed Bunting, 4 little Egret, 6 Redshank & one with young on water sports island, 7 Lapwing, 9 Cormorant, 3 Sedge Warbler, 5 Pied wagtail, 1 Buzzard, 3 Little grebe, 4 Blackcap, 1 Sparrow Hawk, 1 Garden Warbler, 15 Goldfinch, 7 Pochard, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Willow Tit WLC creek, 1 Bullfinch, 3 Swallow, 1 Reed WarblerDave Armitt
15/07/2026216 Swifts flew N in 2 hours this morning, plus another 10 around the visitor centre. 5 adult Black-tailed Godwits on Watersports island. Pair of Mute Swans still with 3 cygnets at Shiningford, and the female Red-crested Pochard with 4 young. 2 Little Egrets. Juvenile Sedge Warbler in Hopton reedbed, presumably a migrant starting its southward journey.Simon Roddis
14/07/2026This morning, one Egyptian Goose in Brown Ale Bay, female Red-crested Pochard with 4 young at Shiningford, Black-tailed Godwit still on Watersports island, 3+ Common Sandpipers at WLC, adult Caspian Gull on Flat Island early morning, at least one Common Gull, c200 Lesser Black-backs, 19 Cormorant, c400 Coot, Willow Tit singing near the main carpark.SJR, CA, MW
13/07/2026A small northerly movement of Swifts this morning, a total of 79 heading into the wind. Black-tailed Godwit still on Watersports island, a Curlew at sailing club and a Whimbrel flew S. Adult Caspian Gull (looks like the bird that has been here the last couple of years) on Watersports jetty. 108 Gadwall, 12 Pochard (plus 2 broods) and the female Red-crested Pochard still with young. 2 Little Egrets. Hobby over sailing club. Willow Tit on Stones. Linnets are starting to gather in the meadows south of Sheepwash, at least 10 there this morning.Simon Roddis
22/07/2026Biggest surprise of the morning was the appearance of a brood of 3 Mute Swan cygnets being walked off Horseshoe Island to the water by 2 adults; presumably they had nested out of sight on the island. Adult Black-tailed Godwit on Watersports island. Common Sandpiper at Sheepwash. 10 Pochard, plus 2 broods from WLC. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at Millfields. 2 Little Egrets. Juvenile GSWoodpecker near PS hide. 2 Willow Tits at Penn Carr/Millfields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
10/07/2026A female-type Goldeneye was in Brown Ale Bay this morning, a very dowdy bird looking very much like the one that was here last summer. 5 Teal. 9 Pochard. Female Red-crested Pochard now with just 3 young as far as I could see. 230 Coot. 9 Lapwing. First-summer Caspian Gull on Watersports jetty. Common Gull there too. Adult Common Tern. 2 Little Egrets.Simon Roddis
09/07/20263 drakes Common Scoters between Stones Island and Millfields this morning. 4 Teal. Female Pochard with 2 young from WLC, plus 4 males. 16 Mute Swans. Pair of Common Terns off the dam wall. Redshank still with 2 young. 1 Little Egret. Richard's possible Caspian Gull hybrid on Watersports jetty.Simon Roddis
08/07/202674 Gadwall from WLC this morning. 12 Mute Swans. 2 new broods of Coot, one of GCGrebe and 4 of Mallard. Redshank still with 2 chicks on Watersports island. Total of 3 Common Sandpipers. Adult Yellow-legged Gull and c100 Lesser Black-backs. 2 Willow Tits (Stones and WLC). Reed Warbler with food in Hopton reedbed and a Whitethroat there. R&A had a Kingfisher at Millfields.SJR, RPJ, AMD
05/07/2026Mid-evening on Watersports jetty: Caspian Gull (3rd s) - probably a hybrid due to darkish upperparts and yellow legs (as YLGull) but Caspian structure. Plus YLGull (ad).Richard Lowe
05/07/2026Species recorded during monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Mallard, Carrion Crow, Black-headed Gull, Cormorant, Canada Goose, Gt Crested Grebe, Magpie, Blackbird, Greylag Goose, Mute Swan, Coot, Red Kite, Pied Wagtail, Wren, Buzzard, Little Egret, Moorhen, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Little Grebe, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Chiffchaff, Dunnock, Woodpigeon, Swift, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Goldfinch, Blackcap, Long-tailed Tit, Swallow, Reed Bunting, Sedge Warbler, Red Crested Pochard (f plus six chicks), Blacktailed Godwit (3 flying over), Oystercatcher, Robin and Song Thrush (40 was well up on expectations) Three Curlew were also seen later in the afternoon from the Wildlife CentreGary Atkins
05/07/2026Quiet on a short visit this morning: Redshank still with 2 young on Watersports, 6 Pochard, 2 Teal, 2 Egyptian Geese, 1 ad Yellow-legged Gull.Clive Ashton
03/07/20266 Swift, 3 Oystercatcher, 3 Lapwing 1 Great White Egret of stones, 4 Chiffchaff, 8 Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap,2 Long tailed tit, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Willow Tit on stones, 14 Goldfinch, 2 Reed Bunting, 2 Garden Warbler, 1 Common Sandpiper on sailing Club ,1 Buzzard, 2 Reed Warbler, 2 TealDavid Armitt
30/06/2026The main highlight this morning was an adult Redshank with 2 small young on Watersports Island. Fresh Mallard broods of 9+6 at Sailing Club, fresh Coot broods 3+1, 2 Pochard, f Red-crested Pochard, 2 Teal, c10 Lapwing, ad YL Gull, Herring Gull, 6 Swift around VC. Roger and Alison had Common Sandpiper and Little Egret at Millfields, Whitethroat a d Willow Tit on Stones.Clive Ashton/RPJ/AMD.
19/06/20263 Little Egret , 6 Oystercatcher, 1 Teal, 1 Little Grebe, 61 Greylag, 3 Blackcap, 8 Chiffchaff, 7 Sedge Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Long tailed tit, 4 Reed Bunting, 2 Lesser black backed GullDavid Armitt
14/06/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 1,182 Canada Geese (plus many broods), 331 Greylag (plus at least 16 broods), 7 Mute Swan, 3 Egyptian Geese, 10 Gadwall, 56 Mallard, 2 Pochard (plus broods of 1 and 4), 45 Tufted (plus a brood of 5 at WLC), 1 Moorhen, 149 Coot (plus 4 broods), 3 Little Grebe (plus 1 brood), 40 GCGrebe (plus 3 broods), 16 Oystercatcher (including some fully grown young), 2 Redshank, 2 Common Tern, 9 Cormorant, 2 Heron. Plus a total of 8 singing Reed Warblers, Goldcrest with food at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
13/06/2026There are 5 Common Scoters (4m,1f) out in the middle this morning. Egyptian Goose, first-summer Yellow-legged Gull and Common Gull still at Watersports. 125 Coot. Peregrine over Hall Wood. c100 Sand Martins around Stones.Simon Roddis
10/06/2026A Ringed Plover was at sailing club this morning, and a Redshank at Watersports. First-summer Common Gull, Egyptian Goose, 2 drake Red-crested and 2 drake Common Pochard still. 94 Coot. Skylark singing along the dam wall. In Tail Bay, a Kingfisher, pair of Common Whitethroat with food and a family party of GSWoodpeckers. 2 Reed Warblers singing in WLC creek and another 3 in Hopton reedbed. 50 Sand Martins. Grey Wagtail with a fledged youngster at Millfields and another pair at the sailing club end of the day wall.Simon Roddis
09/06/2026Adult Mediterranean Gull again over the WLC this morning. New brood of 5 Gadwall at Shiningford. The 2 drake Red-crested Pochard still on Horseshoe island, now starting to moult. 40 Swifts and 40+ Sand Martins feeding. First-summer Common Gull at Watersports. Garden Warbler with food at Millfields.Simon Roddis
07/06/2026Species noted today during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): Mallard, House Sparrow, Canada Goose, Oystercatcher, Greylag Goose, Tufted Duck, Coot, Great Crested Grebe, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Woodpigeon, Magpie, Blackcap, Swift, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Mute Swan, Buzzard, Carrion Crow, Robin, Sedge Warbler, Dunnock, Reed Bunting, Swallow, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Gadwall, Little Grebe and WrenGary Atkins
07/06/2026Garden Warbler with young (and alarm calling) near the WLCGary Atkins
07/06/2026A pair of adult Mediterranean Gulls flew in over WLC creek 09:45. Spotted Flycatcher in the top of Hall Wood and Pied Flycatcher singing briefly and calling in Warrington Knob. 2 drake Red-crested Pochard still at Watersports and 2 (separate) Egyptian Geese. 70+ Coot. 2 Peregrines over the north end. Willow and Garden Warblers with food in Hall Wood. Redstart still singing at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
02/06/2026This morning, 3 Red-crested Pochard (2 males and the long-staying female) were off Stones causeway, 9 Mute Swans, at least 50 Swifts feeding over the east side after the rain, 61 Coot (plus 4 chicks at sailing club), second-summer Mediterranean Gull still, adult Herring Gull, a Hobby flew across the res east to west, 10 Ravens, Reed Warbler singing on Stones causeway and a pair of Garden Warblers with food near WLC.Simon Roddis
25/05/2026Fairly brief visit this morning, I shudder to think what it'll be like up there today. Single Common Tern, the second-summer Mediterranean Gull still, one first-summer Common Gull still resisting the urge to fly north, 1 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, Garden Warbler with food at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
21/05/2026A Hobby flew past the main centre and over the road early morning, first of the year here. An Arctic Tern flew S past Stones island and a Ringed Plover flew over. First-summer Yellow-legged, Great Black-backed and Common Gulls, plus the first Black-headed Gull chick on Horseshoe island. 3 Barnacle Geese. Chiffchaff with food on Stones.Simon Roddis
20/05/2026An Arctic Tern flew past Stones island at 08:35 this morning and an Osprey flew south between 08:45 and 08:50. 2 Barnacle and 2 Egyptian Geese. 16 Swifts including 8 screaming around the main centre. 2 Redshank and 1 Dunlin. Mick had Pied Flycatcher still singing in Hall Wood.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
17/05/20262 Arctic and a Common Tern flew past Stones around 07:00. On and around Watersports island, 2 Little Egrets, female Red-crested Pochard and Pink-footed Goose. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull still on sailing club island. Yellow Wagtail flew N.Simon Roddis
16/05/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 186 Canada (plus 19+ broods), 3 Barnacle and 74 Greylag (plus 16 broods) Geese, 6 Mute Swans, 1 Egyptian Goose, 20 Gadwall, 76 Mallard, 1 Red-crested Pochard, 5 male Common Pochard, 66 Tufted, 2 Moorhen, 29 Coot, 2 Little Grebe, 45 GCGrebe, 13 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Redshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern, 12 Cormorant, 1 Heron. Plus 40 Swifts, 4 Reed Warbler, single Whitethroat, Redstart and Pied Flycatcher.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
15/05/2026In a relatively brief early morning visit, 3 Arctic Terns off Stones island, Dunlin and Common Sandpiper on Watersports island and the female Red-crested Pochard on Horseshoe island.Simon Roddis
12/05/2026Nothing much is changing at the moment, although Mute Swans have risen to 8, the most since last October. Pair of Barnacle and 3 Egyptian Geese. Female Red-crested Pochard still on Watersports island. 20 Swifts. 7 species of waders, including single Lapwing, Ringed Plover, Curlew and Common Sandpiper. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull past Stones. 100s of Swallows and smaller numbers of Sand and House Martins. 3 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed and a Common Whitethroat in WLC creek. 2 Pied Flycatchers and a Redstart singing in Hall/Middle Woods.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD, KR
10/05/20264 Swift, 8 Chiffchaff, 20+ Sand Martin, 10+ House Martin, 8 Sedge Warbler, 4 Willow Warbler, 6 Blackcap, 1 Bullfinch, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Reed Bunting, 1 LRP, 4 Oystercatcher, 3 Garden Warbler, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Redshank, 1 Lesser Black Backed Gull ,1 Egyptian GooseDavid Armitt
07/05/2026This morning, single Pink-footed and Egyptian Geese, female RcPochard, drake Goosander, pair of Oystercatchers with 3 chicks at Shiningford, Snipe on Horseshoe island, second-summer Mediterranean Gull on Sailing Club island, first-summer Caspian Gull still, 1 Willow Tit, some hundreds of Swallows, Sand and House Martins, Redstart still in WLC Fields. Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall (per Ellen Hancock).SJR, CA, MW
05/05/2026A few bits and pieces this morning: 2 Egyptian Geese still, 2 Shelduck W over WLC creek, pair of Shoveler and female Red-crested Pochard off Horseshoe island, 8 Goosander (7 flew N plus drake at sailing club), 12 Swifts, 2 Bar-tailed Godwits (one at Watersports and one flew E), immature Great Black-back, Great Egret over the main centre, Whitethroat at Hopton, 2 Pied Flycatchers in Hall and Middle Woods, 2 singing Redstart. Clive had Wheatear in WLC creek, Spotted Flycatcher at Lane End and 16 Redpoll at Sheepwash.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
03/05/2026Species recorded (44) during today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon ... Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Pied Wagtail, Canada Goose, Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff, Mallard, Swallow, Sedge Warbler, Cormorant, Coot, Garden Warbler, Tufted Duck, Black-headed Gull, Blackbird, Great Crested Grebe, Woodpigeon, Oystercatcher, Robin, Barnacle Goose, Pochard, Grey Heron, Common Sandpiper, Red-throated Diver, Dunnock, House Martin, Gadwall, Wren, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Reed Bunting, Bullfinch, Mute Swan, Goldfinch, Greylag Goose, Herring Gull, Great Tit, Common Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Moorhen, Buzzard, Sand Martin, Swift, Redshank, Blue TitGary Atkins
03/05/2026Another excellent morning. A Red-throated Diver in almost full summer plumage was off Sheepwash early morning and flew at 11:00. Waders included a total of c20 Dunlin, 2 Ringed Plovers, 2 Bar-tailed Godwits, 1 Curlew. Jon B found a female Whinchat at sailing club late morning, a nice spring record. Drake Goosander also at sailing club. Lots of hirundines: c200 each of Swallow and Sand Martin, 50 House Martins and 20 Swifts. 2 Arctic Terns. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull again. Yellow Wagtail over Stones.SJR, CA, AHS, MW
02/05/2026A Spotted Flycatcher at Lane End is the first of the year here as far as I'm aware. Arctic Tern past Stones and Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports. 2 Barnacle and 1 Egyptian Goose. 6 Pochard. Female Red-crested Pochard on Horseshoe island. Redshank and Dunlin at sailing club. First-summer Caspian Gull again off Stones. 2 singing Pied Flycatchers (Hall Wood and Sheepwash) and 2 Redstarts at Hopton end.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
01/05/2026Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports and 2 Common Sandpiper there also. 2 "commic" Terns distant in the haze, 2 drake Pochard, drake Teal, Fresh Mallard brood of 6 at Sailing Club, Common Whitethroat singing in WLC fields.Clive Ashton
30/04/2026This morning from Stones Island: 2 Ruff (1 horseshoe, 1 Watersports Island), Bar-tailed Godwit (Watersports), 3 Common Sandpiper, 1 summer plumage Dunlin (Sailing Club), Female Red-crested Pochard, 2 Barnacle Geese. 2 Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall, and Grey Wagtail singing there.Clive Ashton/Mick Watson
29/04/2026No Terns today but waders were in evidence with 9 species recorded: Bar-tailed Godwit at Watersports, Sanderling on Sailing Club shoreline, 2 Ruff on the back of Horseshoe Island, Curlew heard at Millfields and a Greenshank was around for a while before apparently flying NE. Female Red-crested Pochard and her male common Pochard admirer at WLC, Caspian Gull at Watersports, Yellow Wagtail over Stones, 4 Sedge Warblers and 2 Common Whitethroat behind Millfields Island.Clive Ashton
28/04/2026Another fantastic morning started with 9 Arctic Terns flying in over the dam at 0715hrs. Whilst counting the Terns, at 0745, Alan picked out a dark phase Arctic Skua which flew low up the middle of the res before departing NW. Paul Bennett popped in to see the Arctic Terns and found a Little Tern amongst them at Sheepwash. By 0945hr Arctic Tern numbers had increased to 26, before around half of them had apparently moved on. Large numbers of hirundines all morning and we estimate 400 Sand Martin and 200 Swallow. C6 Pochard, female Red-crested Pochard, 2 female Goldeneye at Sheepwash, 3 Egyptian Geese, 2 Swift, the ringed Caspian Gull, Yellow Wagtail (MR). Little Tern and c14 Arctic Terns still present around 1100hrs when we left site.CA/AHS
27/04/2027From Stones Island this morning, 3 Shoveller, 2 Pochard, 1 Red Crested Pochard, 1 Grey Heron, lots of Sedge and Garden Warblers, 2 Arctic Terns, 1 Common Sandpiper. 1 Dunlin at Millfields and Mediterranean Gull on Sailing Club Island (CA) Peacock butterfly and Orangetips on the wing.AHS
26/04/2026The first-summer Little Gull was still off Watersports this morning. 1 Bar-tailed Godwit and 2 Common Terns there too. Female Red-crested Pochard from WLC. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull still on sailing club island. Single Curlew, Common Sandpiper and Redshank. 3 Swifts from WLC. Whitethroat in WLC creek. 13 singing Sedge Warblers across Stones and WLC creek. 3 Yellow Wagtails.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
25/04/20262 summer plumage Black-necked Grebes around Watersports area, 1 Black Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern, 2 Little Gull (ad, 1s), 3 Shelduck, 2 drake Pochard, Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper, Common Whitethroat at Hopton End, Reed Warbler in WLC reedbed, 3 Pied Flycatcher on east side.Clive Ashton
24/04/2026Following yesterday afternoon's movement, there were another 36 Black Terns this morning, building up between about 06:30 and 08:30, plus 3 Little Gulls (2 adults and one first-summer), all to 11:00 at least. The 2 Bar-tailed Godwits were still around and a Greenshank flew N. 3 Mandarins over the main carpark. 6 Pochard, 2 Teal. 1 Egyptian Goose. More Garden Warblers have arrived, now 6 in the Stones/WLC area. Lesser Whitethroat singing south of Sheepwash. Redstart singing at the top of WLC creek and Clive had a Yellow Wagtail over the WLC.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
24/04/20266 Chiffchaff, 5 Cormorant, 3 Blackcap, 24 Black Tern, 1 Reed bunting, 9 Oystercatcher, 2 Bullfinch, 2 Willow warbler, 8 Sedge warbler, 1Bar tailed Godwit , 2 Little Gull, 2 Male Pochard , 1 Female Red Crested pochard , 15+ Sand Martin,2 LRPDavid Armitt
23/04/2026The 2 Bar-tailed Godwits are still present, 1 each at Watersports (with a damaged wing) and from.WLC. Common Sandpiper and 2 Redshank in the same area. Two female Goldeneye. Reed and Garden Warblers at Hopton end, and Garden on Stones. 3 singing Pied Flycatchers in Hall Wood/Warrington Knob. 3 male Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall and 2 Swifts overhead. Wheatear at Millfields (per A&R).SJR, MW, RPJ, AMD
22/04/2026Best this morning was a beautiful first-summer Little Gull off Watersports. Another surprise was 2 Redwing at Millfields, with a Swift, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Willow Tit and c100 Redpoll in the same area. Around Watersports, 2 Bar-tailed Godwits, Common Sandpiper, Redshank and the pair of Egyptian Geese. Yellow Wagtail (possibly 2) on Stones causeway/dam wall. Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
21/04/2026Another excellent spring morning, with 4 new species for the year: Swift over the dam wall, Yellow Wagtail at the main centre, Garden Warblers at Hopton end and on Stones, and Reed Warbler in Hopton reedbed. One Black-tailed and 2 Bar-tailed Godwits were on Watersports island and later from WLC. First-summer Caspian Gull still. Pink-footed Goose, 2 Teal, 2 Pochard and 4 Goldeneye. 10 Sedge Warblers around Stones island and 1 at WLC. Redstart still in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
19/04/2026Highlight of the monthly wildfowl count was a drake Ring-necked Duck in Brown Ale Bay at around 08:50, relocated off Big Island at 10:20. Other wildfowl: 194 Canada, 34 Greylag (plus a brood of 5), 1 Pink-foot, 2 Egyptian, 2 Mute Swan, 33 Gadwall, 70 Mallard (plus a brood of 12), 3 Pochard, 47 Tufted, 5 Goldeneye, 4 Moorhen, 18 Coot, 4 Little Grebe, 36 GCGrebe, 11 Oystercatcher, 1 Lapwing, 2 Common Sandpiper, 1 Redshank, 2 Dunlin, 6 Cormorant (a total of 480 waterbirds as opposed to 824 in April last year) Also: first-summer Mediterranean and Caspian Gulls at Watersports, 100+ Sand Martins, male Whitethroat at Hopton end, male Pied Flycatcher still at Warrington Knob and Redstart in WLC fields. Wheatear on the dam wall (per Mick W).Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
18/04/2026This morning, 2 Egyptian Geese, drake Pochard, 3 Common Sandpipers off Stones causeway, first-summer Yellow-legged Gull, 3 Mediterranean Gulls (second-summer and a pair of adults), Common Tern at Watersports, Willow Tit on the Tail Bay path, 3 Skylarks over, 100++ Sand Martins, male Redstart in WLC fields still, 1 Redpoll.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
17/04/2026Early evening - 2 Med Gulls (a 3cy and 2cy) in or around the BHGull colony at the rear of Sailing Club Island, best viewed from the second bench along the dam wall, albeit distant. Also a German ringed Caspian Gull (2cy) on the Watersports pontoon; Pink-footed Goose and LRPlover on Watersports Island.Richard Lowe
17/04/2026Quieter than yesterday. The second-summer Mediterranean Gull was still present, Redstart still singing in WLC fields and 2 new Sedge Warblers, on Millfields island and at WLC.SJR, CA, AHS
16/04/2025A decent morning, starting with a male Pied Flycatcher singing in Warrington Knob, just south of Middle Wood on the east side (first of the year). Single Arctic Tern and Whimbrel past Stones island (also both the first of the year), and a Common Sandpiper was on the shore. Drake Pochard off Watersports. 2 male Redstarts (Hall Wood and WLC fields).SJR, CA, MW
14/04/2026Caspian Gull (2cy) on Watersports pontoon late afternoon - (yellow colour ring on left leg).Richard Lowe
14/04/2026The second-summer Mediterranean Gull flew across sailing club bay mid-morning. Common Tern at Watersports. Drake Pochard. 4 Goldeneye. At Hopton end and Hall/Middle Woods, 9 Coal Tit, 5 Willow Warbler, 17 Blackcap, 6 Nuthatch, 8 Treecreeper, 1 Redstart. Another Redstart in WLC fields. 3 Sedge Warblers around Stones.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
13/04/2026Late afternoon visit: second-summer Mediterranean Gull among the Black-heads on the back of sailing club island, as reported by Richard L a couple of days ago. Pink-footed Goose past Stones. 3 singing Sedge Warblers.Simon Roddis
11/04/20263 Little and 4 Common Terns were off Stones island from 07:55 to around 08:15 this morning. Good conditions for terns, clearly. 20+ Barnacle Geese. Second-summer Caspian Gull again off Watersports. Little Egret at Millfields. Big increase in hirundines, c100 Swallows, 300 Sand Martins and at least 4 House Martins. Sedge Warbler again on Stones.Simon Roddis
10/04/20262 Pochard, 1 female Red-Crested Pochard, 8 Gadwall, 6 Oystercatcher, 7 Chiffchaff, 1 Little Grebe, 30+ Sand Martin, 20+ Swallow, 1 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap , 4 Long tailed Tit, 4 House Martin, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Jay , 3 Willow Warbler, 2 BullfinchDave Armitt
10/04/2026A Sedge Warbler singing on Stones island this morning is the earliest ever arrival here by 2 days. 2 House Martins also on Stones, and 100+ Sand Martins and c20 Swallows. Female Red-crested Pochard again consorting with a male Common Pochard off Stones causeway. 70 Common Gulls late morning, and a second-summer Caspian Gull off Watersports. Little Egret over Hopton end early morning. Redstart singing above WLC creek again and a brood of 3 Mallard in the fields (first I've seen this year). 1 Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
08/04/2026A very decent morning: a Sandwich Tern flew past Stones island at 08:15 and the Jack Snipe was again on Watersports island from 07:30 to at least 09:30. A Redstart was singing at the top of WLC creek and a female Wheatear was in the fields. Wildfowl included 3 Shelduck, female Red-crested Pochard, 2 drake Pochard, 4 Goldeneye and the pair of Egyptian Geese. A Curlew flew over Stones. First-summer Caspian Gull at sailing club. Willow Warblers and Blackcaps in increasing numbers.SJR, CA, AHS
07/04/2026A Jack Snipe bobbed away on Watersports island this morning, from 07:30 to 09:10 at least, with a Common Snipe almost adjacent. 4 Shoveler were out in the middle of the res. Tawny Owl calling at Penn Carr. Total of 33 Ravens, including 30 over the pastures; the presence of a couple of Buzzards and a Red Kites suggests that there might be a dead animal up there attracting their attention. 4+ Willow Warblers dotted around, and 3 Redpolls over.SJR, CA, MW
06/04/2026The pair of Egyptian Geese were on sailing club island early morning. 6 Goldeneye. 2 Curlew and 2 Herring Gulls flew S. 5 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing. c60 Sand Martins and 3 Swallows off Sheepwash. Willow Warblers singing near the main entrance and at Millfields. 60 Fieldfare flew N (flocks of 24 and 36).Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
05/04/2026Following are the species recorded during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walks (10am-noon; Stones Island to the Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Cormorant, Black-headed Gull, Magpie, Mallard, Chiffchaff, Coot, Tufted Duck, Oystercatcher, Carrion Crow, Egyptian Goose, Robin, Greylag Goose, Black-tailed Godwit, Sand Martin, Canada Goose, Moorhen, Woodpigeon, Gt Crested Grebe, Pochard, Gadwall, Willow Tit, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Wren, Goldeneye, Pied Wagtail, Redshank, DunnockGary Atkins
05/04/2026A fly-through Greenshank was this morning's highlight. c80 Fieldfare also flew NW. 30 Sand Martins and 5+ Swallows off Stones/WLC. 2 Egyptian Geese, 4 Pochard and 2 Teal. Snipe at Paul Stanley hide. Barn Owl at Hopton reedbed first thing, and 15 Ravens over. Willow Tit at WLC. Black-tailed Godwit also reported on Watersports island (per Lorna).SJR, CA, MW
04/04/2026The first Willow Warbler of the year was singing near the main centre mid-morning, wonderful to hear. Other bit and pieces included 2 Shelduck, 3 redhead Goosander, 1 Egyptian Goose, 2 Pochard, 3 Redshank, 3 Herring Gulls, 1 Little Egret, 10 Sand Martin, 2 Swallows, 4 Blackcap, 1 Redpoll.SJR, MW, CA
02/04/2026A winter-plumage Turnstone was on Watersports island at 07:30 but had gone by 09:00. 3 Egyptian Geese at Millfields/Watersports. 1 Pink-footed Goose. The drake Red-crested Pochard was still at Millfields, hanging around with a group of Mallard. A light northerly movement of c.70 Woodpigeons. 21 Buzzards in a 360 scan from the dam wall late morning. Willow Tit at WLC. 10 Sand Martins.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
01/04/2026A drake Red-crested Pochard was at Millfields this morning, and a Little Egret flew S past Stones. Pair of Egyptian Geese still hanging around Watersports island. 6 Sand Martin and 1 Swallow. 2 Redpoll (over Millfields and Stones).SJR, CA, MW


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
09/02/2022The GNDiver again off Stones this morning, and the 2 Red-necked Grebes, one off Lane End, the other off the dam wall. 45 Barnacle Geese. 1m Goosander. 7+ Oystercatchers, including the colour-ringed pair M7 and 'Barcode' back from their winter in Devon. 2 Red Kites. Total of 11 Skylarks heading towards Carsington pastures. 150 Redwing, including 100 at Sheepwash. 100 Siskin in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
08/02/2022The GNDiver was off Millfields this morning and the 2 Red-necked Grebes off Lane End/Stones. Female Pintail at WLC. 4 Oystercatcher. 4 Curlew. 2 Redshank. 2 Woodcock flew into Tail Bay early morning. 1 Red Kite. 3 Sparrowhawks.Simon Roddis
07/02/2022Ad hoc wildfowl count: 1 GNDiver, 2 Red-necked Grebes, 93 GCGrebe, 31 LGrebe, 20 Cormorant, 8 Mute Swan, 96 Canadas, 13 Greylag, 148 Gadwall, 147 Wigeon, 125 Mallard, 205 Teal, 21 Pochard, 86 Tufted, 8 Goldeneye, 1 Water Rail (Hopton reedbed), 19 Moorhen, 714 Coot, 4 Oystercatcher, 629 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, 3 Curlew, 12 Snipe. 10 Buzzards, 3 Red Kites and 2 Kestrels in the air late morning.Simon Roddis
06/02/2022Species (not totals) seen during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk around Stones Island/WLC (10oam-noon): House Sparrow, Canada Goose, Black-headed Gull, Barnacle Goose, Mute Swan, Coot, Moorhen, Mallard, Teal, Wigeon, Tufted Duck, Pochard, Gadwall, Goldeneye, Cormorant, Great-crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Lapwing, Redshank, Oystercatcher, Common Gull, Gt Black-backed Gull, Lesser BB Gull, Herring Gull, Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Willow Tit, Reed Bunting, Dunnock, Robin, Blackbird, Siskin, Snipe, Little Egret, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Woodpigeon, Goldfinch, Wren, GoldcrestGary Atkins
06/02/20222 Little Egret, 40 Wigeon, 4 Pochard,10 Gadwall,2 Little Grebe, 20 Great crested Grebe , 40 Redwing, 3 Wren, 10 Goldfinch, 5 Dunnock, 32 Lapwing , 20 Teal, 10 Chaffinch , 3 Reed bunting, 1 Great Blacked- Backed Gull, 1 Rednecked Grebe, GN Diver , 1 Coal TitDavid Armitt
06/02/2022The GNDiver from Lane End this morning and the 2 Red-necked Grebes off Stones island. c40 Barnacles and 1 Pink-footed Goose. 6 Pintail (3m,2f off Sheepwash plus the female at WLC). Female Merlin mobbing a Peregrine over Hall Wood, perhaps she's hanging around. Adult Caspian Gull on Horseshoe island. 1 Red Kite. c40 Siskin near WLC.Simon Roddis
05/02/2022The GNDiver was off Stones this morning, now in heavy wing moult - it won't be going far for a while! The 2 Red-necked Grebes still, the easiest they've been to find since they got here, one from the visitor centre and one off Sheepwash carpark. Female Pintail from WLC again. 3 Curlew at Sheepwash. 1 Woodcock at Hall Wood. 6 Herring Gulls N. 2 Little Egrets. 2 Red Kites. Kingfisher in Brown Ale Bay. 30 Chaffinch, including 20 at the Sheepwash feeder.Simon Roddis
04/02/2022Not a bad morning: the GNDiver and 2 RnGrebes still present, a Water Rail in WLC creek and a female Merlin upsetting the Lapwings as it flew through. The Lapwings never really settled after that. 4 Red Kites and a Peregrine over the east side. Female Pintail again from WLC.Simon Roddis
03/02/2022The GNDiver again off Stones this morning and the 2 Red-necked Grebes separately between Lane End and Sheepwash (both visible from the visitor centre). 5 Red Kites in the air together on Carsington Pastures. 2 Shelduck, 2 Goosander and at least 3 Tawny Owls calling at Millfields. c650 Lapwing including an odd-looking bird with all white primaries. 12 Stock Dove. Kingfisher at PS hide. 70 Siskin at WLC.Simon Roddis
02/02/2022The GNDiver and a single Red-necked Grebe were off Stones island mid-morning. 1 Woodcock at Hopton end. 20 Snipe from WLC. 1 Red Kite at Sheepwash. 2 Skylarks and 1 Linnet over Millfields.Simon Roddis
01/02/2022The GNDiver was again off Stones island this morning but could only find one of the Red-necked Grebes, north of Lane End. Female Pintail again from WLC. 2,000+ Common Gulls left their roost and departed W early morning. 8 Herring Gulls flew in late morning. 3 Red Kites and a Peregrine over the east side.Simon Roddis
31/01/2022The GNDiver and the 2 RnGrebes again in their usual haunts this morning. 1 Shelduck and female Pintail from WLC. 1 Red Kite. Kingfisher from Paul Stanley hide. 8 Ravens in the air over Hall Wood early morning. 10 Tree Sparrows (6 at WLC, 4 Millfields).Simon Roddis
30/01/2022The GNDiver and RnGrebes again in their favoured spots this morning. 46 Barnacle Geese. Female Pintail from WLC. 1 Red Kite. 3 Oystercatcher. 35 Snipe on Horsehoe island/from WLC. 5 Herring Gulls. 195 Rooks over Shiningford early morning.Simon Roddis
29/01/2022The 2 Red-necked Grebes still off Lane End and the GNDiver was off Millfields late morning. 4 Red Kites over Carsington pastures (and perhaps a couple more reported over the east side). 3 Shelduck at Millfields. Male Shoveler at Sheepwash and female Pintail again at WLC. 4 Oystercatchers, including a metal-ringed bird at Millfields. 13 Herring Gulls (third day in succession there have been HGs, clearly a bit of movement going on). c100 Starlings and 50 Fieldfare on the pastures.Simon Roddis
28/01/2022Much the same again today: GNDiver off Stones much of the morning and the 2 RnGrebes off Lane End. 43 Barnacle Geese. Single Woodcock and Brambling at Millfields first thing. 2 Red Kites over the east side. c100 Siskin at WLC.Simon Roddis
27/01/2022The GNDiver again off Stones this morning and the 2 Red-necked Grebes off Lane End. 45 Barnacle Geese. Female Pintail from WLC. 3 Herring Gulls N. 2 GBbGull (adult and 1w). Flock of 32 Stock Doves behind the villages, perhaps flushed by a raptor (maybe even the Peregrine which upset all the Lapwings!). 1 Red Kite. 30 Cormorant. Total of c100 Redwing, including 50 in WLC fields, along with c100 Starlings.Simon Roddis
25/01/2022Another dull morning weather-wise but the GNDiver was again off Stones island and the 2 Red-necked Grebes off Lane End. 45 Barnacle Geese. Female Pintail from WLC. 35 Snipe (28 from WLC, 7 in Brown Ale Bay). 1 Oystercatcher. Willow Tit singing at Hopton. Total of c200 Siskin, including a flock of 150+ over WLC creek.Simon Roddis
24/01/2022Picked up the GNDiver and the 2 Red-necked Grebes off Lane End despite increasingly murky conditions this morning. 6 Goosander at Millfields early on. Total of 42+ Common Snipe. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Kingfisher at PS hide.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
23/01/2022Monthly WeBS count: 262 Canada, 13 Greylag, 12 Mute Swan, 157 Gadwall, 184 Wigeon, 177 Mallard, 1f Pintail, 554 Teal, 11 Pochard, 201 Tufted, 13 Goldeneye, 2 Water Rail (Hopton reedbed and Brown Ale Bay), 23 Moorhen, 904 Coot, 42 Little Grebe, 2 Red-necked Grebe, 108 GCGrebe, 1 GNDiver, 2 Oystercatcher, 1034 Lapwing, 2 Woodcock, 14 Snipe, 2 Redshank, 23 Cormorant, 1 Heron, 1 Kingfisher.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
22/01/202218 adult Whoopers this morning, off Millfields. 2 Red-necked Grebes off Lane End (couldn't see one at Millfields) and the GNDiver out in the middle. 2 Oystercatchers (unringed) from WLC. c800 Lapwing. 3 Curlew. 2 Redshank. 14 Common Snipe. 1 Woodcock between WLC and Shiningford. c1300 Common Gulls flew out early morning. 11 Tree Sparrow (6 at Millfields, 5 WLC).Simon Roddis
21/01/2022The GNDiver and both RnGrebes were still in their usual areas this morning. 49 Barnacle Geese. 3m Goosander, including 1 on the water off Sheepwash carpark, unusual at that end of the res. 1 Oystercatcher still. 3 Curlew on Stones island. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. Single Kingfisher and Water Rail in the narrow end of Brown Ale Bay. 12 Lesser Redpoll over WLC creek, and a total of c50 Siskin.Simon Roddis
20/01/2022The GNDiver was out in the middle of the res late morning, and a Red-necked Grebe off Millfields island. Failed to find the Lane End bird this morning. 17 Little Grebes from the WLC. c800 Lapwing, a definite increase. 9 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 1 Oystercatcher still. Raptors were enjoying the breeze, with a Red Kite, 7 Buzzards, 3 Sparrowhawks and single Peregrine and Kestrel. 80 Redwings came out of a roost near Sheepwash first thing, and c20 Blackbirds around the carpark.Simon Roddis
19/01/20223 Whooper Swans (2 ads,1 juv) off Stones causeway were new in this morning, while the GNDiver was off Millfields and the 2 Red-necked Grebes still at Millfields and Lane End. 44 Barnacle Geese. 1 Woodcock at Hall Wood first thing. 50 Siskin at Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
18/01/2022The GNDiver and both Red-necked Grebes again in their regular spots this morning. Increased geese numbers: c500 Canada and 350 Greylags (most of the Greylags flew in after midday), with c40 Barnacles and hybrids feeding in WLC fields. 70 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 09:15. c600 Lapwing. 1 Woodcock at Hopton end at first light. 1 Little Egret and 3 Grey Herons.Simon Roddis
17/01/2022Single Red-necked Grebe at Millfields early morning and the GNDiver off Stones. c350 Canada Geese. 49 Barnacles plus 3 Nene hybrids. 19 Greylag. 3 Pintail from WLC. 1 Oystercatcher still. 2 Red Kites.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
16/01/2022This morning: Great Northern Diver still off Stones Island, Water Rail calling from Hopton reedbed, Red-necked Grebe near draw-off tower Millfields, 8 Goosander at Millfields early morning only, 4 Pintail still at WLC and 5 Snipe there, Oystercatcher still at Watersports and at least 1 Redshank mobile.Roger Carrington
15/01/2022No sign of the swans (except Mutes) this morning but the 2 Red-necked Grebes and the GNDiver were still present. 3 Curlew past Stones island and the Oystercatcher still. 4 Pintail and 1m Shoveler from WLC. 6 Goosander (3m,3f) at Millfields.Simon Roddis
14/01/2022A beautiful herd of 13 Bewick's Swans was off Sheepwash all afternoon, along with 8 Whoopers. The first Bewick's since 2013, and my first ever here. Red-necked Grebes again at Millfields and Lane End, and the GNDiver off Stones island. 44 Barnacle Geese with 3 Nene hybrids in WLC fields. A GSWoodpecker drumming at Lane End. 7 Tree Sparrows at WLC. In the gull roost, c10,000 Black-heads, 1,000 Common, 200 Lesser Black-backs, 1 adult Yellow-legged. At Hopton end at dusk, 2 Woodcock, Water Rail and Tawny Owl. A great afternoon!Simon Roddis
13/01/2022Both Red-necked Grebes and the Great Northern Diver were on their usual beats this morning, and the Oystercatcher was on Horseshoe island. 40 Barnacle Geese and the 2 hybrids again. 1m Shoveler at WLC. c650 Lapwing. 1 Little Egret. 3 Sparrowhawks. 5 Raven over Millfields. 6 Tree Sparrow.Simon Roddis
12/01/2022Both Red-necked Grebes again this morning but separately, at Millfields and off Lane End, and the GNDiver off Stones island. In other wildfowl news: 177 Canadas, at least 38 Barnacles (plus 2 Nene hybrids), 3 Greylag, 16 Mute Swan, 159 Gadwall, 227 Wigeon, 186 Mallard, 4 Pintail, 406 Teal, 11 Pochard, 213 Tufted, 9 Goldeneye, 18 Moorhen, 1182 Coot, 32 LGrebe, 79 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher (very early return date but not the earliest ever), c500 Lapwing, the Black-tailed Godwit still, 2 Redshank, 20 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron. 1 Red Kite perched near Sheepwash and c60 Siskin at Middle Wood, plus a mixed Siskin/Lesser Redpoll flock in alders near the WLC.Simon Roddis
11/01/20222 Red-necked Grebes together by Millfields draw-off tower early morning. I couldn't find the Lane End bird so I assume that the 2 have found each other (again?). The adult GNDiver was off Stones island and the Black-tailed Godwit still on Stones causeway. 4 Pintail (2m,2f) again from WLC. 183 Canada. 9 Barnacle. 3 Goosander. A Water Rail showed well in WLC creek mid-morning and a young Peregrine put everything up off Horseshoe island. 1 Kingfisher in Brown Ale Bay. Total of 170 Redwing. 10 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
10/01/2022The Great Northern Diver, 2 Red-necked Grebes and Black-tailed Godwit still all present this morning. A Great Egret was on Shiningford island late morning (credit to Alison and Roger). 4 Pintail still. c400 Lapwing. 2 Kingfishers (Penn Carr and Brown Ale Bay). 6 Willow Tits. Out of the corvid roost early morning, c1000 Jackdaws, 200 Rooks and 100 Carrion Crows over the visitor centre.Simon Roddis
09/01/20221 Red Necked Grebe, 1 Great Northern Diver, 3 Redshank, 5 Pied Wagtail, 75 Lapwing, 60 Teal, 10 Pochard, 1 Redwing, 8 Little Grebe, 26 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Meadow Pipit, Pintail 2M 1F, 13 Greylag, 10 Gadwall, 1 Raven, 1 Black-tailed GodwitDavid Armitt
09/01/2022The Great Northern Diver and 2 Red-necked Grebes (Millfields and Lane End) still this morning. 1+ Woodcock, 3 Tawny Owls, 2 Little Egrets and 1 Water Rail at Hopton end early morning. 4 Pintail (2m,2f) from WLC. The Black-tailed Godwit again around Stones island and then WLC. 2 Redshank. 1 Red Kite. 4 Raven.Simon Roddis
07/01/2022The adult GNDiver was again off Millfields early afternoon, and 2 Red-necked Grebes again, one at Millfields and one off Lane End. An adult Kittiwake, presumably yesterday's bird, was on sailing club shore early afternoon and the second-winter Caspian Gull was on Horsehoe island (from WLC) mid-afternoon. Pair of Pintail from WLC. 2 Peregrines (male and female) over Blackwall plantation. 24 Snipe over Stones island.Simon Roddis
05/01/20224 Tree sparrows on nut feeder at Millfields Car park. Grey wagtail near Dam wall.Matthew Birkin
06/01/2022An adult Great Northern Diver, quite possibly the returning bird of previous winters, was initially off Stones island then resting out in the middle of the res. We'd almost given up hope! Couldn't find any Red-necked Grebes. An adult Kittiwake sat on buoy number 7 for a while, and yesterday's second-winter Caspian Gull and Black-tailed Godwit were still around. 3 Pintail from WLC. 1 Little Egret still, quite surprising given how cold it is. 13 Fieldfare flew S. c20 Lesser Redpoll on Stones and a mixed flock of c50 Goldfinch, Siskin and Redpoll at the WLC.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
05/01/2022Ad hoc wildfowl count: 2 Red-necked Grebes (Millfields and Lane End), 85 GCGrebe, 37 Little Grebe, 16 Mute Swan, 223 Canada, 6 Barnacle, 62 Greylag, 137 Gadwall, 205 Wigeon, 135 Mallard, 4 Pintail (2m,2f), 348 Teal, 14 Pochard, 184 Tufted, 10 Goldeneye, 14 Moorhen, 1195 Coot, c400 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 1 Black-tailed Godwit at WLC, 2nd-winter Caspian Gull on Horseshoe island around midday, 24 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron.Simon Roddis
04/01/2022The Red-necked Grebe again off Millfields this morning. 140 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 09:40. 8 Barnacle Geese. 2 Woodcock at Sheepwash early morning. 1 Little Egret still. 2 Red Kites. c50 Fieldfare above Hopton village. 30 Siskin.Simon Roddis
03/01/2022The Red-necked Grebe was at the Millfields end of the dam wall early morning. 180 Canada Geese. 7 Barnacles. 1 Woodcock at Penn Carr. 250 Common Gulls from PS hide late morning. Little Egret from WLC again. 3 Red Kites. 1 Skylark S over Stones. 200 Redwing. 10 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
02/01/2022Species seen during first Birdwatching for Beginners walk of the year (10am-noon; Stones Island - Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Pied wagtail, Canada Goose, Mallard, Coot, Gt Crested Grebe, Robin, Lapwing (around 350), Raven, Tufted Duck, Black-headed Gull, Red Kite, Gt Black-backed Gull, Cormorant, Mute Swan, Gadwall, Carrion Crow, Wigeon, Pochard, Teal, Common Gull, Blue Tit, Meadow Pipit, Blackbird, Little Grebe, Moorhen, Barnacle Goose, Redshank (2), Collared Dove, Magpie, Jackdaw, Woodpigeon, Willow Tit, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Snipe (at least 5), Wren, Tree Sparrow, Pintail (m), Dunnock In addition, earlier when alone, I also saw Nuthatch, Siskin, Goldfinch, Redwing, Bullfinch, Long-tailed Tit and a Mistle Thrush that decided it was spring, singing its heart out!Gary Atkins
02/01/2022Lapwing 300+ Wigeon 128, 83 Teal, Monte Swan 16, Grey Heron 1,Pochard 15, Cormorant 6, Goldeneye 3, Greylag 7, Gadwall 7, Lesser Redpoll 6,Goldfinch 15, Redwing 10, Bullfinch 4, Pintail 1, long tailed tit 6, Meadow Pipit 1, Raven 2David Armitt
01/01/2022Happy New Year! The Red-necked Grebe was again off Millfields this morning. 3 Pintail (2m,1f) from WLC. 5 Goosander (2m,3f) at Millfields early on. 2 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing. 1 Redshank. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at Sheepwash. 1 Little Egret. 4 Red Kites over Fishtail creek. Kingfisher at Millfields. 4 Raven. 1 Skylark over. 1 Brambling on Stones island. Total of c80 Siskin. A Yellowhammer over WLC creek - we had to wait until December for one last year!Simon Roddis
31/12/20213 Goldeneye (1m,2f) between draw-off tower and MillfieldsGary Atkins
31/12/2021Red-necked Grebe again at Millfields, and lots of people coming to see it! 1 Shelduck at Sheepwash. Pair of Pintail in Shiningford creek. 22 Snipe flying around Stones island, presumably flushed from Horseshoe island. 1 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing. 1 + Redshank. 3 adult Yellow-legged and 8 Herring Gulls on Sheepwash spit early pm. 32 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. 20 Lesser Redpoll on Stones and c60 Siskin near the WLC.Simon Roddis
30/12/2021The Red-necked Grebe was on its usual beat off Millfields this morning. 7 Shoveler (6m,1f) were new in. Pair of Pintail at WLC. 9 Goldeneye. 65 Greylags. c600 Lapwing. 5 Snipe. 2 adult GBbG, including Onefoot. 14 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
29/12/2021The Red-necked Grebe was again near the draw-off tower at Millfields, then off the dam wall closer to sailing club late morning. 195 Canadas. 9 Greylag. 17 Mute Swan. Drake Pintail at WLC. c750 Lapwing. 5 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gull. Best day for raptors for ages, though only average really: 6 Buzzard, 3 Sparrowhawk, single Kestrel and Peregrine - they must have struggled during the past several days of rain, fog and no wind. Female Brambling at Millfields.Simon Roddis
28/12/2021One Red-necked Grebe was just north of Millfields this morning. c600 Lapwing. 3+ Redshank. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. 31 Cormorant. 2 Skylarks over.Simon Roddis
27/12/2021RedNecked Grebe 1 Goldeneye (M) 1 Both from Millfields CP 1230-1300 Note - 8 Whopper Swans seen in field off B5030 (from A50 but before Crakemarsh) might be the same birds recently seen at Carsington Michael
26/12/2021Couldn't find any different grebes or swans in the murk this morning. 11 Shoveler (5m,6f). 3 Pintail (1m,2f). 2 Kingfishers chasing at Hopton end, and a female Brambling also there. 13 Lesser redpolls on Stones island.Simon Roddis
24/12/2021One Red-necked Grebe was in Sailing Club bay and off Stones island this morning, presumably one of the 2 here a couple of days ago but who knows? Similarly, 8 Whooper Swans (6 ads, 2 juvs) were probably part of the 13 earlier in the week. 1 Little Egret at WLC. 4 Shoveler (2m,2f). 1 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing. Kingfisher in Sailing Club bay.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
22/12/2021Highlight of a belated wildfowl count were 2 Red-necked Grebes off Stones island, still present late pm up towards Sheepwash (looking from Stones). 13 Whooper Swans (10 ads, 3 juvs) dropped in about 12:15, also still present late pm. 274 Canadas, 18 Barnacle, 3 Greylag, 3 Pink-feet, 20 Mute Swans, 2 Shoveler, 145 Gadwall, 270 Wigeon, 244 Mallard, 3 Pintail, 432 Teal, 30 Pochard, 205 Tufted, 11 Goldeneye, 23 Moorhen, 1,268 Coot, 39 Little Grebe, 74 GCGrebe, 550 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, 2 Snipe, 3 Woodcock, 19 Cormorant, 2 Heron. In the gull roost late afternoon, c10,000 Black-headed, 1,500 Common, 500 Lesser Black-back, 4 Herring, 2 adult Yellow-leg and 1 adult Caspian. 200 Starlings over, presumably heading to roost.Simon Roddis
21/12/21A pair of Shelduck between Stones island and Millfields this morning. Female Pintail at WLC. c200 Canada, 3 Greylag, 8 Barnacle and 1 Pink-foot in the fields, plus 45 Pink-feet SW at 10:40. 400 Lapwing. The Ruff and Redshank still. c40 Siskins near the WLC.Simon Roddis
11/12/2021A Jack Snipe showed briefly on Horseshoe island mid-morning. 1 Ruff and 2 Redshank still. 1 Dunlin past Stones island. 320 Lapwing. 208 Canadas. 3 Greylag. 27 Mute Swan. 91 Gadwall. 158 Wigeon. 274 Mallard. 475 Teal. 3 Pintail. 46 Pochard. 9 Goldeneye (5m,4f). 18 Moorhen. 22 LGrebe. 70 GCGrebe. Total of 75 Siskin.Simon Roddis
09/12/2021A redhead Smew was off Watersports island from 08:20. Flighty, didn't seem particularly settled, last seen around 09:00. The first since Feb 2011. A Yellowhammer over Stones later was also the first of the year (as far as I know anyway). 300 Canada Geese. 32 Greylags (highest since early October). 2 Little Egrets. 1 Ruff and 2 Redshank still. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. Kingfisher at Millfields. 16 Magpies, including 13 at the Millfields feeders.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
07/12/2021An adult Kittiwake flew up the res around 09:00, perhaps ahead of the impending storm. 2 Barnacle Geese. 27 Mute Swans. 3 Pintail still. 120 Lapwing. Single Ruff and Redshank still. 3 Woodcock into Hopton end first thing. 4 Snipe. c900 Common Gulls early morning - unusual for such high numbers to be around in the morning, they usually seem to leave even earlier than the Lesser Black-backs. 1 Little Egret still. 1 Red Kite. 2 Skylarks flew S. 15 Lesser Redpoll on Stones island.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
05/12/21Species seen during the Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-11.45am), though a couple may have only been seen by me ahead of the main walk: Blackbird, Gadwall, Lapwing, Grey Heron, Moorhen, Mallard, Coot, Teal, Little Grebe, Willow Tit, Tree Sparrow, Robin, Gt Crested Grebe, Black-headed Gull, Siskin, Reed Bunting, Goldfinch, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Tufted Duck, Buzzard, Dunnock, Mute Swan, Wren, Wigeon, Cormorant, Great Tit, Pied Wagtail, Redpoll, Pink-footed Goose, Canada Goose, Pochard, House Sparrow, Ruff, Long-tailed Tit, Fieldfare, Bullfinch, Redwing, Redshank, Little Egret, Raven, WoodpigeonGary Atkins
04/12/20213 Pintail (2m,1f) again. 185 Lapwing, an increase on the last couple of days. 1, maybe 2 male Ruff at WLC. 10 Stock Dove, including 8 S. 2 Little Egret. 1,400 Jackdaws out of their roost early morning. 7 Ravens over Hall Wood. 8 Lesser Redpoll on Stones island.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
03/12/2021Afternoon visit: a Water Rail showed very well in Brown Ale Brook (the stream below the path to Paul Stanley hide). The gull roost seemed much smaller than below the cold weather: c5,000 BhGulls, 1,000 Common, 1,000 Lesser Black-back, 3 Herring. Corvids from the main centre late pm: c1,400 Jackdaws, 80 Carrion, 105 Rooks. 1 Little Egret. 2 Redshank.Simon Roddis
02/12/2021Partial wildfowl count to see if the weekend's cold weather brought any in: 283 Canadas, 20 Mute Swan, 2 adult Whoopers off Stones, 132 Gadwall, 219 Wigeon, 238 Mallard, 3 Pintail (2m,1f), 474 Teal, 41 Pochard, 175 Tufted, 12 Goldeneye (5m,7f), 1 redhead Goosander, 23 Moorhen, 33 LGrebe, 56 GCGrebe, 65 Lapwing, 1 Ruff, probably 4 Redshank, 3 Woodcock, 1 Little Egret. 4 Sparrowhawks, including a displaying pair. 30 Blackbirds.Simon Roddis
01/12/2021A decent morning, nothing exceptional but plenty of birds. Highlights were single Shelduck (found by Sam G), Pintail, Ruff, Redshank, Woodcock (flying around WLC creek), Little Egret, Peregrine, 2-3 Red Kites, total of c600 Redwing, 7 Tree Sparrows at WLC. 73 species, a pretty good start to the month!Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
26/11/2021Nothing mega this morning but a Chiffchaff on Stones island was my first of the month. Single Ruff, Redshank, Little Egret, Peregrine, Red Kite. 2 Pink-footed Geese among the Canadas. Totals of 5 GSWoodpecker and 38 Long-tailed Tit in 3 flocks at the north end.Simon Roddis
22/11/2021A little bit of vismig this morning: 148 Fieldfares NW and 384 Starlings W. 3 Shelduck flew in mid-morning. 274 Canada Geese. 3 Goldeneye (2m,1f). 1m Goosander. c450 Lapwing. A male Ruff along Stones causeway and at the WLC (maybe here for the winter?) and the Redshank still. 1 Peregrine upsetting the Lapwings. 10 Tree Sparrow (8 at WLC, 2 Millfields).Simon Roddis
21/11/20212 Woodcock came into Hopton end early morning, by the light of the Woodcock Moon, and 4 calling Tawny Owls there, including 3 within about 30 yards of each other. c180 Teal and the drake Pintail still. 2f Goldeneye. 611 Lapwings. The probable subadult Caspian Gull on Sheepwash spit again.Simon Roddis
19/11/20211m Goosander at Millfields early morning. 867 Woodpigeons N and 45 S, plus 8 Stock Doves N in one hour, 08:00-09:00. 600+ Lapwing, definite increase. 1 Redshank still. c10,000 Black-headed Gulls at first light. 2 Kingfishers. Willow Tit singing at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
18/11/202165 Pink-feet E at 10:00. 170 Canada Geese. 31 Mute Swans. 4 Goldeneye (2m,2f). 69 GCGrebe. c300 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. 1 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing. 29 Stock Doves (23 N, 6 S) and 457 Woodpigeons N. 117 Starlings W and 39 Fieldfare SW.Simon Roddis
17/11/2021A Great Northern Diver flew south high down the res at 08:50, had a bit of a look but appeared to go straight through. 226 Canada Geese, with single Barnacle and Pink-foot among them. Drake Pintail. 178 Teal. 8 Goosander (1m,7 redheads) at Millfields early morning. 4 Goldeneye (2m,2f). 219 Woodpigeons (189 N, 30 S) and 12 Stock Doves (5 N, 7 S) through. 300 Lapwing. 2 Dunlin at WLC. 1 Redshank still. 10 Herring Gulls flew in late morning. Adult Yellow-leg still. 4 Skylarks N. Total of c200 Redwing. 16 Lesser Redpolls on Stones island.Simon Roddis
16/11/2021Very foggy this morning! 1 Woodcock, 4+ Tawny Owls and a Brambling at Hopton end first thing. Little Egret at WLC. c300 Starlings at Watersports, feeding on the shore, very unusual there. 9 Tree Sparrows (5 WLC, 4 Millfields).Simon Roddis
15/11/2021Probably conservative estimates of c10,000 Black-heads, 5,000 Lesser Black-backs and 500 Common Gulls in the roost late afternoon, watching from Stones so some birds between there and the dam wall will have been out of sight. Also 4 Herring, 1 GBbG, 1 Yellow-leg and a probable subadult Caspian. 28 Mute Swan. 46 Gadwall. 300 Lapwing. 1 Dunlin. 500+ Starlings over Stones late pm, presumably heading to a roost.Simon Roddis
14/11/20212 adult Whooper Swans were at Millfields early morning, presumably having roosted overnight, but didn't stay long. 3f Goldeneye. An unknown number of Pink-footed Geese flew over Sheepwash carpark late morning - heard but not seen as they were in the cloud! 250 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at Sheepwash. Kingfisher at Millfields.Simon Roddis
13/11/1021The first Woodcock of the autumn/winter flew into the Hopton end early morning, 4 Tawny Owls calling there and a Water Rail called in the reedbed. 9 adult Whooper Swans Flew NE at 09:10. 2f Goldeneye off the dam wall. 455 Woodpigeons N and 117 S. 250 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. 3 Red Kites. 8 Skylarks over. 150 Starlings W. Total of 250 Redwing. 2 Brambling over Hopton end and 13 Lesser Redpoll on Stones island.Simon Roddis
12/11/2021c100 Teal. 1f Pintail. 45 Pochard. 3f Goldeneye. 100 Woodpigeons N. 255 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. 32 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret at the WLC. 3 Red Kites over the pastures. 100 Siskin, including a flock of c90 at Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
07/11/2021Species noted collectively by the 'Birdwatching for Beginners' group (Sunday, 7th November 10am-noon): Black-headed Gull, Mute Swan, Coot, Tufted Duck, Mallard, Moorhen, Blackbird, Grey Heron, Carrion Crow, Cormorant, Gt Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Gadwall, Canada Goose, Pied Wagtail, Wigeon, Robin, Lapwing, Teal, House Sparrow, Sparrowhawk, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Redshank, Woodpigeon, Goldfinch, Snipe, Pochard, Willow Tit, Tree Sparrow, Jackdaw and RedwingGary Atkins
08/11/2021The pale bellied brent Goose that SJR found was still present from stones island and then wildlife centre around midday and had a ring on it's right leg a black ring with a white number 6 on it.Chris brown
07/11/2021Monthly WeBS count: 80 Canada Geese, 24 Mute Swan, 60 Gadwall, 118 Wigeon, 174 mallard, 1 Pintail, 128 Teal, 84 Pochard, 207 Tufted, 4 Goldeneye, 34 Moorhen, 1395 Coot, 42 Little Grebe, 44 GCGrebe, 198 Mallard, 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Redshank, 37 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
05/11/2021A great day, the highlight being a juvenile Gannet off Watersports for 5 minutes just before 11:00. It flew around a bit, dived twice, terrified the Tufted Ducks when it landed near them, and then disappeared. 4 Hawfinches flew SW at the Hopton end at 09:53, and a juvenile Marsh Harrier flew W across the reservoir at 12:30. Vismig totals 07:00-14:00: 6153 Fieldfare and 2218 Redwing SW, 4 Blackbirds S, 2769 Starling W, 1938 Woodpigeons S (plus 86 N), 5 Stock Doves S and 10 N, 1 Brambling SW. At least 6 Dunlin, including a flock of 5 W. 97 Canada Geese. 51 Pochard. 2 Goldeneye (imm male and a female) off Lane End. 420 Common Gulls at Sheepwash late pm. 4 Herring Gulls. 4 Red Kites. 7 Buzzard. 54 Rooks.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
04/11/2021Vismig from Hopton end 07:00-10:00: 4,525 Redwing and 3,005 Fieldfare SW, 1,119 Starlings W and 3,524 Woodpigeons S. 75 Pink-footed Geese E (and I'm told another 150). 6 unid'd grey geese S, pretty sure they weren't either Pink-feet or Greylag. Mistle Thrush singing at Hopton end and 6 Grey Wagtails there. Total of 50+ Siskin.Simon Roddis
02/11/2021Decent Woodpigeon movement once low mist had cleared from the east side: 11,070 flew S (all but 300 from 07:00-09:45). 5 Stock Doves. 724 Starlings W. 2nd-winter Caspian Gull again at Sheepwash early pm, plus the adult Yellow-leg. Single redhead Goldeneye at Sheepwash and Goosander at Millfields. 275 Lapwing. 1 Redshank at Sheepwash. 3 Sparrowhawk. 1 Red Kite. 14 Skylarks in random directions. 1 (maybe 2) Brambling S over Stones. Total of c40 Siskin.Simon Roddis
01/11/20214 Red Kites over the east side. 3 Shoveler (1m,2f) off Stones. 1 Redshank from Stones causeway. 210 Woodpigeons S and 110 Starlings W. 5 Lesser Redpoll on Stones. 55 Siskin, including a flock of 50 over WLC creek.Simon Roddis
31/10/2021Afternoon visit after this morning's rain. 4 female-type Scaup and an immature drake Goldeneye off Sheepwash. 51 Gadwall. 312 Wigeon. 133 Teal. 51 Pochard. 40 GCGrebe. 175 Lapwing. 43 Cormorant. 1 Red Kite over Hall Wood. c30 Long-tailed Tits in 3 flocks. 20 Siskin.Simon Roddis
27/10/2021Very light movement this morning, just 300 Woodpigeons, 8 Stock Doves and 210 Starlings. 45 Pied wagtails out of their roost on Watersports island early morning, and c.1,200 Jackdaws again. Juv Ringed Plover on Watersports island (same bird as at Sheepwash a couple of days ago) and a Curlew early morning. 400 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged and Herring Gulls on Sheepwash spit.Simon Roddis
26/10/2021Quite morning today,mist made observation difficult. Stones Island, 1 Little Egret, Willow Tit, mixed flock of thrushes feeding in the Hawthorn, Blackbirds, Song thrushes and Redwing. WLC creek, 15 Redwings, 2 Mistle Thrushes, 2 Sparrowhawks, 1 Kestrel,1 Shoveller,1 Redshank plus small groups of Wood pigeons passing through.A H Stewardson
25/10/2021Best this morning was a Rock Pipit S over Stones island at 09:00. Vismig somewhat frustrated by low cloud but 1,280 Starlings flew W. 1 Fieldfare S. 17 Skylarks (14N,3S). 2 female Pintail. Juv Ringed Plover at Sheepwash. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls there too. At least 25 Meadow Pipits around Stones island.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
24/10/20212 adult Whooper Swans flew in at 08:00 and 2 Great Egrets 10 minutes later, but neither stayed for long. 6 Red Kites in the air at the same time over the east side is (as far as I know) a new record for Carsi. A flock of 26 Dunlin flew S through Millfields at 10:40 and my first 2 Fieldfares of the autumn were among a flock of Redwings. Totals of 510 Woodpigeons, 332 Redwing and 76 Starling through. 11 Snipe at WLC and 70 Goldfinch nearby. 1,200 Jackdaws over the main centre after leaving their roost early on.Simon Roddis
24/10/202144 Wigeon,9 Gadwall, 20 Teal, 9 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Great White Egret, 40 Teal,120 lapwing,4 Pochard, 3 Red kite, 18 Cormorant,4 Little Grebe, 4 Snipe WLC ,5 Moorhen, 3 Tree Sparrow.David Armitt
22/10/20212 Jack Snipes at Hopton reedbed first thing. Very little movement compared to yesterday, just 220 Woodpigeons, perhaps because of the poorer weather. 1 Pintail. 2 Kingfishers (Hopton end and perhaps the same at PS hide, and sailing club). 1 Chiffchaff on Stones.Simon Roddis
21/10/20213 adult Whooper Swans flew in at 09:10 and remained off Stones island until 09:45 at least. 8,990 Woodpigeons flew S, mostly down the east side, in 3 hours from 07:30-10:30. 50 Pink-feet SE at 08:55. 29 Mute Swan. 2 redhead Goosander at Sheepwash. 190 Lapwing. 51 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. c1,000 jackdaws over the main centre early morning. 2 Chiffchaff. c50 Starling and 100 Redwing but no real movement.Simon Roddis
19/10/2021Jack Snipe again at Hopton reedbed, along with a Common Snipe. Total of c75 Siskin, including a flock of c70 over the WLC, and a Brambling with Chaffinches over the main carpark. 2 Pintail off Stones island. 1 Little Egret. The adult Yellow-legged Gull still. Kingfisher at Millfields.Simon Roddis
18/10/2021A Jack Snipe in Hopton reedbed early morning is my first of the year here. Fog inhibited viewing so no movement seen. The adult yellow-legged Gull still present. 110 Lapwing. Definite influx of Blackbirds and Song Thrushes, several of each feeding on hawthorn berries on Stones island. 4 Chiffchaffs.Simon Roddis
14/10/20211 Great Spotted woodpecker ,4 Chaffinch,1 Coal Tit,4 Tree sparrow,1 Nuthatch,1 Willow Tit,1 Snow Bunting,4 Pied Wagtail,6 Little Grebe,12 Great Crested Grebe,10 Cormorant,2 Grey Heron,15 Mute Swan, 108 Wigeon ,3 Pochard, 16 Teal,23 Lapwing,1 Kestrel,3 Moorhen, 1 Little Egret, 2 Meadow Pipit, 17 Goldfinch, 1 Grey Wagtail, 6 Long tailed Tit,2 GadwallDavid Armitt
14/10/2021The Snow Bunting was again in Millfields viewing area early morning. Vismig from Stones 07:30-10:00: 2,100 Redwing W-ish, 230 Starling W, 262 Woodpigeon, 6 Stock Dove, 6 Lesser Redpoll and 12 Siskin S. Total of 34 Skylarks N. 4 Pintail. 2 Shoveler at Sheepwash. 125 Lapwing. 1 Dunlin. Adult GBb and Y-l Gulls again. 2 Little Egret. 3 Sparrowhawk. 4 GSWoodpecker. c1,000 Jackdaw over the dam wall at first light.Simon Roddis
13/10/2021A nice autumn morning's birding. The first Redwings flew through, 840 between 07:00 and midday, heading between NW and SW, along with 37 Starling, 44 Siskin S (including a flock of 30 over WLC creek), 21 Skylark heading towards Carsington pastures, 8 Pink-feet NE. Female-type Scaup (nice find by Mike Redfern) and Common Scoter off Stones island. 100 Lapwing. 10 Snipe on Horseshoe island (MR). 2 Little Egret. 6 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing. 7+ Ravens. And others saw the Snow Bunting, again in Millfields viewing area.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
12/10/2021The Snow Bunting was in Millfields viewing area late morning and was very confiding once it was found! Much less movement than yesterday, just 490 Woodpigeons S (and 7 Stock Doves) in 1 hour. 3 Pintail off Stones. 1 Little Egret. Up to 11 Ravens over Millfields/Blackwall for much of the morning. A female House Sparrow in WLC creek was, I think, the furthest from the visitor centre I've ever seen one (310 metres).Simon Roddis
11/10/2021The Snow Bunting is still on the dam wall, towards the Millfields end. c9,000 Lesser Black-backs and 6,000 Black-headed Gulls still roosting at first light. A bit of movement this morning: 3520 Woodpigeons S, 220 Pink-feet (140 SW, 80 E), 85 Starlings S, 28 Skylark including a flock of 22 N past Stones island. 2 redhead Goosander off the dam wall early morning. c150 Lapwing. 1 Little Egret. 3 Red Kites. 6 Jays. 1 Brambling over the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
09/10/2021Snow bunting still midway along dam wall till dusk also 2 curlew over north west at c6pm.Chris brown
10/10/2021Monthly WeBS count: we don't get Spoonbill every month! Yesterday's juvenile was at Sheepwash early morning but may have flown as not seen again to 11:00 at least. Only 73 Canada Geese and 3 Greylags. 22 Mute Swan. 4 Shoveler. 52 Gadwall. 205 Wigeon. 127 Mallard. 1 Pintail. 124 Teal. 99 Pochard. 207 Tufted. 26 Moorhen. 1223 Coot. 31 Little Grebe. 49 GCGCrebe. 118 Lapwing. 1 Snipe. 43 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. 7 Grey Heron. 2 Kingfishers. Away from the water, the Snow Bunting and Wheatear were still on the dam wall, 21 Pink-feet flew E at 09:05, 32 Woodpigeons S (taste of things to come?), 3 Red Kite, 10 Buzzard, total of 24 Siskin, and 1 Brambling over Middle Wood.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
03/10/2021Species seen during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon): House Sparrow, Coot, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Tufted Duck, Teal, Mute Swan, Gadwall, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Grey Wagtail, Cormorant, Wren, Chiffchaff, Buzzard, Goldfinch, Carrion Crow, Robin, Wigeon, Pochard, Little Egret, Tree Sparrow Great tit Jackdaw Pied wagtail Moorhen.Gary Atkins
03/10/2021Surprisingly few geese this morning, not sure why. Still 4 Pintail off Stones and 2 Shoveler at the WLC. 90 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged Gull still. 41 Cormorant. Kingfisher at Hopton end. 5 Jays. 12 Swallows over Hall Wood. 11 Chiffchaffs (9 between Sheepwash and Stones). 2 Blackcap. 43 Meadow Pipits S. 60 Goldfinch. 16 Siskin.Simon Roddis
29/09/2021A bit of southbound movement this morning, the highlight being a female Merlin over Stones island at 08:45. 420 Meadow Pipits, mostly between 09:00 and 11:00, 6 Skylarks (+1N), 9 Swallows, 1 Grey Wag, 9 Greenfinch (including a flock of 7), 2 Siskin, 2 Linnet, 2 Stock Dove. A Great Egret was near Big Island at 08:15. 1,850 Canada and 42 Barnacle Geese flew out early morning, and 615 Greylags flew back in. 7 Pintail off Stones.Simon Roddis
26/09/2021Flock of 46 Barnacle geese, accompanied by 4 Nene type geese in field near WLC creek.Gary Atkins

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