Recent Sightings

NameSightingDate
DN, MW, RPJ, AMD,AHSThis morning from Stones Island, 1 Little Egret, 1 Great White Egret, 1 Yellow legged gull, 75 Pink Feet Geese, at least 4 Skylarks over, 1 Dunlin, Oystercatcher still present, Willow tit, groups of Redwings fly down East Bank. From WLC creek, 1 Coot, 1 Redkite, Siskins and Redpolls in the Alder trees.22/10/2025
Dave NewcombeIn addition to Simon's post: 2 Shoveler and 13 Pochard at Millfields. Chiffchaff on Stones island. Ducks counted at Lane End whilst I was sheltering from the rain: 50 Wigeon (exact count), 33 Gadwall. 370 Teal. There were a few more Teal but they got flushed before I could finish. 5 Skylark over SW. From Sheepwash: A break in the weather allowed 4 Buzzards, 2 Red Kites, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk to come out. The latter flushing 25 Redwings on far side. A Common Sand again (maybe a different bird to last week). c25 Linnets. The gull roost held c10'000 birds. Adult Caspian. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls. 4 Herring Gulls. 500 Common Gulls by 17.30hrs.20/10/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonA reasonable morning given the conditions, the following all from Sheepwash hide: female Goldeneye (first of the autumn), Common Scoter off Fishtail, presumably the same as yesterday, 2 Dunlin, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 1 Little and 3 Great Egrets, 21 Gadwall, 37 Wigeon, Peregrine, Rock Pipit and a late Wheatear (possibly Greenland?).20/10/2025
SJR, CA, MW, JBIn 2 hours from Stones island this morning, 50 Pink-footed Geese SW, 1,098 Woodpigeons S, 5 Stock and 4 Collared Doves, 16 Golden Plover, 4 Great Egret (3 NE, 1 S), 16 Skylarks, 483 Starling, 739 Redwing, 170 Fieldfare. One drake Common Scoter still off the east side, 30 Pochard, 4 Lapwing, 2 Peregrine, Yellow-legged Gull.19/10/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonBest bird for me this morning was a calling Little Owl, my first there for donkey's years. 4 Common Scoter (2 drakes) were again off Fishtail Creek so perhaps part of yesterday's flock. An hour's vismig from Stones produced 265 Woodpigeons, 260 Starlings, 484 Redwing, 20 Fieldfare and 12 Chaffinch. 28 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at about 09:30. 2 Curlew and a Dunlin flew past Stones, a Ringed Plover was at Sheepwash and the Oystercatcher still on Horseshoe island. Adult Caspian and 2 Yellow-legged Gulls still. c600 Common Gulls departed early morning and 750 Jackdaws noisily left their roost. Female Pintail at Sheepwash.18/10/2025
Simon RoddisAnother 5 Common Scoter (1m, 4 female/juvs) this morning - it's been a good week for them. Female Pintail past Stones. A bit of movement included 68 Woodpigeons, 5 Stock Doves, 10 Skylarks, 31 Starling, 186 Redwing and 17 Fieldfare. Single Redshank and Dunlin, and 2 Snipe. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. c3,000 Black-headed Gulls first thing. Cetti's Warbler still in Hopton reedbed, and Crossbill over. Male Stonechat in the overflow carpark. Chiffchaff and Blackcap still on Stones.17/10/2025
Simon RoddisLate afternoon visit: c5,000 Lesser Black-backs had come into the roost by 18:30. Shelduck still at Sheepwash, along with 2 Redshank, adult Caspian Gull, Herring Gull. Also 4 Yellow-legged Gulls and a Dunlin (per RJL). 46 Cormorants. 50 Starlings, presumably going to roost somewhere.16/10/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonClive found this morning's star bird, a juvenile Gannet sitting out on the water, present to midday at least. 6 Common Scoters (an adult drake and 5 lovely barred juveniles) were off the dam wall and a Rock Pipit flew over. A few birds moving, with totals of c650 Redwing in random directions, 80 Fieldfare, 180 Woodpigeons, 11 Stock Doves, 13 Skylarks and 10 Swallows. Adult Caspian Gull still and 2 adult Yellow-legs. Single Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Ringed Plover and Dunlin. Drake Pintail off Lane End and at least 18 Pochard. Total of at least 90 Siskin.15/10/2025
Simon RoddisA flock of 22 Common Scoters (7 males, 15 females) was between Stones island and Millfields this morning. Total of 134 Redwing through. 9 Coot, more than double the number on the WeBS count on Sunday! 64 Wigeon, 200 Teal and a Dunlin in front of Lane End hide, plus the adult Caspian Gull snaffling multiple crayfish of the invasive Signal variety. At Hopton end first thing, the Cetti's Warbler (actually seen!) and 4 calling Tawny Owls. c60 Siskin in WLC creek.14/10/2025
Dave NewcombeIn addition to Simon's post. 4 Little Egrets. 115 Greylags. 17 Wigeon. 6 Gadwall. 3 Pochard. 3 Ringed Plover on the dam. 22 Skylarks SW including a flock of 16. c30 Linnets on stones island then presumably the same flock at Sheepwash. A few Redwing calling through the gloom at Millfields first thing and 10+ in Sheepwash woods. At Sheepwash: 2 Dunlin. A late Common Sandpiper. Adult Caspian Gull. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. 225 Common Gulls. The roost held in excess of 2'000+ each of both BHG and LBBG.13/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe first Fieldfare of the autumn was on Stones island this morning, and at least 2 more in WLC creek. At least 20 Redwing there too. At one point there were 5 species of thrush in one tree (sadly no Ring Ouzel). Cetti's Warbler and Water Rail still in Hopton reedbed. The Oystercatcher and adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 3 Little Egrets flew in and landed below the dam wall.13/10/2025
Simon RoddisMonthly wildfowl count: 240 Canada, 195 Greylags, 3 Mute Swans, 9 Gadwall, 24 Wigeon, 143 Mallard, 2 Pintail, 162 Teal, 3 Pochard, 110 Tufted, 5 Moorhen, 4(!) Coot, 6 Little Grebe, 38 Great Crests, 1 Oystercatcher, 31 Cormorant, 2 Little Egret, 6 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher. (Compare those numbers with last month, the low water level clearly proved too much for a lot of birds.) Cetti's Warbler still in Hopton reedbed. 50 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 10:18. 12+ Crossbills over Hall Wood. Seem to be more Blackbirds around, at least 10 on Stones.12/10/2025
Simon RoddisA Brambling was among the Linnets, Goldfinches and Meadow Pipits on Watersports island this morning. c2,500 Black-headed Gulls from Millfields first thing, and a flock of 21 Ravens flew E. The Great Egret, Oystercatcher, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still present. 2 redhead Goosander.11/10/2025
Dave Armitt5 Grey Heron, 19 Cormorant, 8 Pochard, 4 Wigeon, 30 Teal, 2 Raven, 2 Jay, 30 Meadow Pipit, 40 Goldfinch, 1 Great White Egret , 1 Peregrine, 1 Red Kite,4 Greylag10/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cetti's Warbler was still in Hopton reedbed this morning. 140 Pink-footed Geese flew E at 10:28. 3 Pintail still. 2 redhead Goosander. c4,000 Lesser Black-backs and 370 Common Gulls flew out over WLC creek early morning. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. Great Egret at sailing club. 2 Stonechats in Tail Bay. Totals of 7 Skylark, 6 Chiffchaff, 30 Starling SW, 14 Bullfinch (8 at Penn Carr), 35 Goldfinch, 20 Siskin, 2 Crossbill.10/10/2025
Simon RoddisA pretty decent morning. A Cetti's Warbler was singing in Hopton reedbed early on, with Water Rail also calling there and Crossbill and a redhead Goosander over. 2 Whooper Swans, the Grey Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Pintail, adult Caspian Gull and Great Egret were on the shore off Lane End/Sheepwash. 48 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 08:30. The Oystercatcher was still at Watersports and 6 Lapwing, 6 Ringed Plover and 3 Dunlin at sailing club. Male Peregrine on his favourite pylon. 18 Skylarks included a flock of 13 S. Stonechat and Wheatear at the sailing club end of the dam wall.08/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe Grey Plover and Black-tailed Godwit were still at Lane End this morning, and 4 Ringed Plover there and later at sailing club. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls. 115 Common Gulls flew out early morning. 3 Pintail. 2 Pochard. 2 Great Egrets at Watersports, but only 1 Little Egret. Totals of 6 Collared Doves, 9 Skylarks, 6 Greenfinch, 20 Linnets, 16 Redpoll and 65 Siskin. Roger and Alison had 10 Whooper Swans fly SE early on.07/10/2025
Dave NewcombeA Marsh Harrier (looked like a juvenile) came over from the east and continued west with several Gulls giving it some attention. 4 Red Kites. One over hall wood, and another 3 first appeared over Millfields before slowly drifting north towards hopton end. Peregrine. Kestrel. 3 Buzzards and a female Sparrowhawk enjoying the warm autumn sunshine. The 6 Whooper Swans were still viewable from Sheepwash at 18.30. 13 Linnets on the dam wall.06/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe Grey Plover was still between Sheepwash and Lane End this morning, and the Little Stint at sailing club. 6 Whooper Swans arrived mid-morning (apparently as a 4 and a 2). Long-stayers included the Great Egret, Oystercatcher and adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls. A bit of movement included (mostly in an hour on Hays Lane) 55 Chaffinch, 12 Crossbills, 7 Redpoll, 16 Siskin, 41 Meadow Pipits, 12 Skylarks, 13 Woodpigeon and 7 Stock Dove. 3 Pintail. Total of 10 Dunlin, 3 Ringed Plover and the Black-tailed Godwit also reportedly still here. At Hopton end first thing, 2 calling Tawny Owls and Water Rail.06/10/2025
Gary AtkinsSpecies recorded during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Robin, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Magpie, Woodpigeon, Mallard, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Gull, Great Egret, Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Kestrel, Tufted Duck, Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Wigeon, Gadwall, Teal, Little Grebe, Gt Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Dunlin, Grey Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Green Sandpiper, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Long-tailed Tit, Willow Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coot05/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Grey Plover (found by Richard L at Sheepwash yesterday) was at Lane End this morning and the Little Stint again at sailing club. Other waders were single Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Little Ringed Plover, Black-tailed Godwit and Green Sandpiper (again at WLC), 4 Dunlin and 5 Ringed Plovers. 68 Wigeon. 5 Pintail. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Great Egret still. Wheatear below the dam wall (sailing club end, found by Mike R).05/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Little Stint was again at the sailing club end of the dam wall this morning, along with the 3 Dunlin, 5 Ringed and 1 Little Ringed Plover. Oystercatcher still at Watersports and Black-tailed Godwit at Lane End. Rock Pipit(s?) flew over Stones island and the dam wall. Juvenile Common Tern and Great Egret still. c100 Common Gulls off Sheepwash first thing. 70 Meadow Pipits, 80 Goldfinch and 2 Snipe at WLC. 40 Siskins over the main carpark.03/10/2025
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


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
08/11/20222,100 Woodpigeons flew S in 2 hours (07:45-09:45) this morning, plus 16 Stock Doves, 105 Redwing, 85 Starling. The almost-adult Caspian Gull again from Stones. 2+ Goldeneye. 6 Red Kites, 5 Buzzards and 3 Sparrowhawks enjoying the breeze.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
06/11/2022Species noted during today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre: Canada Goose, Blue Tit, Great Tit, House Sparrow, Black-headed Gull, Long-tailed Tit, Goldcrest, Pied Wagtail, Woodpigeon, Blackbird, Robin, Dunnock, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Song Thrush, Moorhen, Gt Crested Grebe, Mallard, Magpie, Lapwing, Meadow Pipit, Carrion Crow, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Goldfinch, Grey Heron, Dunlin (13), Wigeon, Coot, Greylag Goose, Chaffinch, Gt Spotted Woodpecker, Willow Tit, Jackdaw, Sparrowhawk, Wren, Tree Sparrow, Teal, Gadwall, StarlingGary Atkins
04/11/2022The day of the Woodpigeon: a total of 62,600 flew S to the east of the reservoir, watching/counting from Stones island, looking towards Alport Heights, 07:15-10:30. A site record! Drake Pintail at WLC. Redhead Goosander. 1 Redshank. Adult Caspian Gull and 2 Yellow-legs at Sheepwash. A Yellowhammer over Stones and Chiffchaff there still.Simon Roddis
03/11/2022The Little Stint was again with the Dunlin flock (18 birds) at the north end of the dam wall mid-morning. Just 1,080 Woodpigeons S in grey conditions early on. Water Rail in Hopton reedbed early morning. 175 Canadas. 43 Greylag. 118 Lapwing. 2 Little Egrets. The Marsh Tit again in Sheepwash carpark. 70 Meadow Pipits feeding on Stones shore. Total of 24 Lesser Redpoll including a flock of 15 S over Stones.Simon Roddis
02/11/2022The juvenile Little Stint was with 16 Dunlin at the sailing club end of the dam wall this morning. Movement included 4,450 Woodpigeons, 15 Stock Doves, 22 Skylarks, 273 Starlings, 432 Redwing and 22 Fieldfare heading S or SW. c1,000 Jackdaws left their roost early morning. 2 Chiffchaffs on Stones.Simon Roddis
01/11/2022Not as much moving this morning, at least at Carsi, presumably because of low cloud and rain: 1,690 Woodpigeons, 16 Stock Doves and 80 Starling. 50 Gadwall. 41 Wigeon. 126 Mallard. 174 Teal. 127 Tufted. An adult Peregrine tucked into a snack on Lane End shore. Chiffchaff still on Stones causeway and the 2 Red-legged Partidges on Stones again. Marsh Tit calling at Sheepwash. Total of 45 Siskin.Simon Roddis
30/10/2022Woodpigeon numbers continue to increase: 7,450 S and SW this morning, mostly between 07:30-09:30, along with 13 Stock Doves, 290 Starling, 165 Redwing and 105 Fieldfare. 2 Brambling in WLC creek. A male Mandarin over Brown Ale Bay early morning is my first here since early May. 204 Teal. 8 Pochard. 30 Coot. 104 Lapwing. 13 Dunlin. 2 Little Egrets. The Marsh Tit again at Paul Stanley hide. Chiffchaff singing on Stones causeway. 7 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
30/10/2022In the gull roost tonight of note: Mediterranean Gull 1W; Caspian Gull (sub-adult); Yellow-legged Gull 6 Adults. Total number of gulls un-countable but guessed well in excess of 10,000.Richard Lowe
28/10/2022Brownale Bay (from PS Hide), 1530 hrs: 2 Great Egrets, 6 Shoveler, 2 (m/f) WigeonGary Atkins
30/10/2022A bit of movement this morning: 4,280 Woodpigeons, 10 Stock Doves, 261 Starlings and 165 Redwings SW (most of it 07:30-10:00). 45 Greylags. 4 Shoveler. 37 Gadwall. 9 Pochard. Drake Goosander at Millfields early morning. A surprise pair of Red-legged Partridge on Stones/sailing club islands - they should be safe here! 191 Lapwing. 14 Dunlin. 32 Cormorants. 1 Little Egret. 9 Red Kites together over Carsington pastures.Simon Roddis
28/10/20223-Mediterranean Gulls (Adult plus two 1w's) in the gull roost tonight plus at least 5 Adult and 1-1w Yellow-legged Gulls, all from Lane end Hide.Richard Lowe
28/10/2022A juvenile Little Stint, presumably the one that was off Lane End on Sunday, was with the Lapwing flock (c140) at Watersports 10:30-11:15 at least. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. 1 Little Egret. 4 Red Kites. 3 Tawny Owls early morning at Hopton end/PS hide. 5 Raven. 8 Skylark over. c500 Starlings and 12 Chaffinch SW.Simon Roddis
27/10/2022A 1st winter Mediterranean Gull and at least 5 adult Yellow-legged Gulls in the gull roost this evening from Lane End Hide.Richard Lowe
25/10/2022Frustrated by low cloud this morning (although that did allow a view of the solar eclipse!) but in a brief window of brightness 09:00-09:30, there was a bit of movement: 2,050 Woodpigeons, 300 Redwing, 70 Fieldfare, 250 Starlings, 25 Siskin. A Yellowhammer over Stones and perhaps the same bird later over the WLC, plus a Brambling over Stones. 6 Shoveler. Marsh Tit in Sheepwash carpark.Simon Roddis
DateofSightingSightingsNameSupplied
24/10/2022The first Goldeneye of the autumn, a male, was off Brown Ale Bay this morning. 36 Gadwall. 1 (2?) Little Egret. 4 Red Kites over Carsington pastures. The Marsh Tit again on the Paul Stanley feeder. 2 Brambling over Stones. Totals of 185 Redwing, 85 Fieldfare, 9 Lesser Redpoll, 45 Goldfinch and 27 Siskin. Couldn't see yesterday's Little Stint at Lane End.Simon Roddis
23/10/2022A juvenile Little Stint from Lane End hide this afternoon, found by Richard Lowe, as was a first-winter Mediterranean Gull there. The 3rd/4th-winter Caspian Gull - it has tiny bits of black in the primary coverts and tail-centre - caught a crayfish but was mugged by a gang of young Lesser Black-backs. 4 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. 3 Shoveler. 35 Gadwall (definite increase). 111 Wigeon. 95 Mallard. 286 Teal. 4 Pochard. 104 Tufted. 34 GCGrebe. 85 Lapwing. 19 Dunlin at Millfields. 1 Little Egret. 114 Redwing. 130 Fieldfare.Simon Roddis
22/10/2022An adult Hybrid Ring-billed Gull / Lesser black-backed Gull was off Lane end Hide late this afternoon. This (or a very similar bird) was first seen at Carsington in November 2018. A Caspian Gull (sub-adult or possibly a hybrid) was also present along with at least 7 adult Yellow-legged Gulls.Richard Lowe
21/10/2022Fog pretty much put an end to vismigging after 8 this morning. 275 Redwing by then. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls at Sheepwash - the Yellow-leg is getting very good at catching crayfish! A Peregrine was upsetting the Wigeon there too, and a Marsh Tit at the carpark. 50 Meadow Pipits on Stones and 20 Siskin at Millfields.Simon Roddis
19/10/2022The floodgates opened this morning: masses of Redwing in particular, 29,190 counted moving SW 07:45-14:00 (with a gap at lunchtime so I'm sure it will have exceeded 30k in reality), 286 Fieldfare, 200 Starling, 3,170 Woodies, 31 Stock Dove. 60 Pink-feet SW at 08:45. Other bits and pieces included a Brambling, 2 Golden Plover, Peregrine.Simon Roddis
18/10/2022Little movement evident this morning, just 190 Woodies S. 18 Canada, 2 Barnacle and 64 Greylag Geese. 2 Shoveler, 16 Gadwall, 53 Wigeon and 5 Pochard. 6 Coot! 120 Lapwing, my highest count here since February. A first-year Caspian Gull off Lane End mid-morning, and 2 Yellow-legs. Kingfisher at Millfields. A Peregrine took a Skylark off Stones island. Total of 13 Ravens, including 9 flying SW. 33 Carrion Crows on the shore at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
16/10/20226 Wigeon, 30 Pied wagtail, 3 Little Grebe, 15 Cormorant, 12 Great Crested Grebe, 8 Grey Heron, 1 Sparrow Hawk, 1 Jay, 48 Lapwing, 7 Mute Swan, 100+ Meadow Pipit, 2 Willow Tit, 12 Dunlin, 2 Raven afternoon walk roundDavid Armitt
16/10/2022A late Swallow through WLC creek, my first for a week, was the best this morning. 1 redhead Goosander. 8 Dunlin. 25 Redwing. 19 Skylarks over Stones, heading N. Total of 29 Siskin, including a flock of 22 S over Hall Wood, and 10 Greenfinch (8 S over Shiningford). Pretty quiet.Simon Roddis
14/10/2022A frustrating first 2 or 3 hours of this morning due to low-lying murk, although 4 adult Whooper Swans on the water at around 07:30 lifted the gloom. A little surprisingly, 5 Whoopers flew past Stones island shortly afterwards, leaving to the N. Have to assume that the 5 included the earlier 4. The Kingfisher again at Millfields. 10 Dunlin still. c120 Meadow Pipits on Stones, flushed by a low-flying male Sparrowhawk. A few finches, including Chaffinches and Siskin, appeared to be on the move but the conditions were less than ideal for vismig!SJR, AHS, RPJ, AMD
13/10/2022A Rock Pipit flew over the dam wall at 09:45. Movement this morning: 19 Stock Doves, 223 Woodpigeons and 39 Redwings S or SW, and 35 Skylarks N. Green Sandpiper again near Big Island. 12 Dunlin. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls (adult and 2 first-years). 5 Red Kites and 8 Buzzards in the air. Peregrine loafing on Lane End shore. 5 Chiffchaffs. 7 Lesser Redpolls flew onto Watesports island.Simon Roddis
12/10/2022Tiny bit of vismig this morning: 45 Redwing, 23 Starling, 75 Woodpigeon and 16 Stock Doves S or SW 08:00-09:00. Nice male Stonechat in WLC creek. 1 Pintail off Sheepwash. 65 Lapwing. 1 Little Egret. 1 Peregrine. 3 Tawny Owls calling in Tail Bay early morning. Kingfisher again at Millfields. 1 Chiffchaff in WLC creek. c100 Meadow Pipits on Stones island.Simon Roddis
10/10/20224 Great Egrets flew through SW at 09:44, a site record (never more than 2 at a time before). Adult Caspian Gull at sailing club, along with 20 Dunlin and 4 Ringed Plover. 4 Pintail flew in at 09:20. 9 Pochard. 32 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. 24 Skylarks over Stones, but possibly some double-counting. 150 Starlings flew SW in several flocks.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
09/10/2022Monthly WeBS count - numbers generally much lower than last month, no doubt due to the low water level: 12 Canada, 30 Greylag, 9 Mute Swan, the Garganey still at sailing club, 20 Shoveler, 7 Gadwall, 92 Wigeon, 150 Mallard, 254 Teal, 1 Pochard, 135 Tufted, 6 Moorhen, 34 Coot, 23 LGrebe, 41 GCGrebe, 47 Lapwing, 4 Ringed Plover, 15 Dunlin, 2 Green Sandpiper near Big Island, 1 Jack Snipe at Watersports, 20 Cormorant, 10 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher at Millfields. Juvenile Arctic Tern flew SW at 08:15. 1 Rock Pipit and 3 Brambling over Stones island. 4 Red Kite. 7 Skylark. 18 Redwing. Total of 25 Siskin.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
07/10/2022Waders this morning were 24 Dunlin, 12 Ringed Plover, single Golden Plover and Snipe. c2,000 BhGulls early morning before most of them dispersed. 46 Cormorants. 1 Little Egret. 5 Red Kites. 4 House Martins SW. 4 Redwing.Simon Roddis
06/10/2022Highlight this morning was a female Merlin which flew south over Carsington Pastures. 22 Lapwing, 13 Ringed Plover and 19 Dunlin in sailing club bay. 3+ Red Kites. Peregrine over Hopton end. Great Egret in Brown Ale Bay. 13 Skylarks over, most heading N. 8 Tree Sparrows at WLC. Total of 20+ Siskin over. 40 House Martins (flocks of 27 and 13) SW.Simon Roddis
05/10/2022Afternoon visit, after the rain abated. Duck numbers seem much reduced, though 480 Teal was up on the last WeBS count. (We'll see what this coming weekend's WeBS brings.) 24 Dunlin at sailing club. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls (adult and 2 first-years) at Sheepwash. Great Egret and Marsh Tit still from Paul Stanley hide. 3 Kestrels, including 2 being harassed by a Magpie in the main carpark. 1 Peregrine. 8 Swallows and 2 House Martins moved through. I didn't get round to posting yesterday (4/10) but the highlights were the RbMerganser again flying out of Hopton end at 07:05, and a Yellowhammer over Stones island.Simon Roddis
03/10/2022A pretty decent morning: a juvenile Marsh Harrier (probably a female) came in from the NE at 09:15, hung around Brown Ale Bay for a while and play-chased a Peregrine before heading off SW over Carsington pastures at 09:30; a female-type Red-breasted Merganser flew NE over Hopton end at 07:10 (wonder if it's the same bird as last week, perhaps roosting here overnight and going elsewhere in the day?); Great Egret also NE over Hopton end at 06:40; and a Merlin came in over Shiningford, upsetting the Lapwings, at 10:20. 25 Mute Swans. 15 Shoveler. 13 Ringed Plover and 18 Dunlin in sailing club bay early morning. A juv female Sparrowhawk took a Meadow Pipit off the dam wall. 8 Buzzards. 11 Skylarks over in random directions. c60 House Martins still hanging about. 9 Redwing.Simon Roddis
02/10/2022Species seen 10am to noon on Birdwatching for Beginners Walk (38). Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Gadwall, Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Tufted Duck, Woodpigeon, Moohen, Coot, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Common Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Cormorant, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Kestrel, Magpie, Jackdaw, Raven, Willow Tit, Chiffchaff, Goldcrest, Wren, Blackbird, Robin, House Sparrow, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, Meadow Pipit and Goldfinch.Lorna Lomas
02/10/20222 skeins of Pink-feet, 165 birds, flew E between 08:25 and 08:30. 72 Greylags. 15 Shoveler. 9 Pintail. 17 Ringed Plover, 23 Dunlin and a Redshank at sailing club early morning. 2 Yellow-legged and 15 Common Gulls at Sheepwash late morning. Kingfisher in Tail Bay. 2 Jays flying across Hopton end carrying acorns. 10 Skylarks over. 70+ House Martins and 8 Swallows. 4 Redwing. 20 Linnet.Simon Roddis
01/10/2022Hobby, Great Egret and Marsh Tit from Paul Stanley hide late morning. 21 Ringed Plover and 12 Dunlin at sailing club. 3 Tawny Owls calling in Tail Bay early morning, and 500 Jackdaws out of their roost. Kingfisher at Millfields. 43 House Martins and 12 Swallows. Total of c300 Meadow Pipits across Lane End, Stones and sailing club. 6 Siskin and 1 Lesser Redpoll over.Simon Roddis
30/09/2022Very foggy this morning, could finally see across to the other side of the water at 11. The ghostly Great Egret and a calling Marsh Tit from PS hide early on. 44 Cormorants. Kingfisher at Millfields. 13 Ringed Plovers. 32 House Martins flew S past Stones island at 11:15. 14 Chiffchaff. At least 16 Redwing. 9 Bullfinch, including 7 in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
29/09/2022Great Egret from Paul Stanley hide early morning. 19 Dunlin and 15 Ringed Plover in sailing club bay but I didn't see the Curlew Sandpiper. 2 skeins of Pink-feet totalling 98 birds flew NE. 71 Gadwall including 62 from Lane End hide. 4 Pintail. 12 Tree Sparrows at WLC (my highest figure this year) and a Lesser Redpoll over Millfields (my first here since 4th April).Simon Roddis
27/09/2023The highlight this afternoon was a juvenile Little Gull from Lane End hide. It was present for c30 mins before disappearing from view. Great Egret also from the hide. 7 Grey Herons. 143 Wigeon. 50 Gadwall. 6 Pintail at Lane End. 17 Shoveler. Female Red-crested Pochard off Shiningford Creek, 19 Ringed Plover. 20 Dunlin. 2 Ruff. Peregrine. 2000+ LBB Gulls. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Adult Herring and GBB Gull. 29 Common Gull. 3 House Martin over dam. 2 Blackcap. 2 Raven.Dave Newcombe
28/09/2022A female/immature Red-breasted Merganser flew SW over the dam wall at 07:10 and the juv Curlew Sandpiper was among the Dunlin flock in sailing club bay. 8 skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 300 birds flew E between 09:10 and 10:45. 37 Shoveler. 4 Pintail. Loose flock of 22 Little Grebes off Shiningford. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls (adult and first-year). 5 Red Kites, 9 Buzzards and 6 Ravens in the air. Kingfisher and Marsh Tit at PS hide. 25 Swallows and 5 House Martins. 102 Meadow Pipits and 40 Linnet on Stones island. 350 Jackdaws out of their roost early morning.Simon Roddis
27/09/2022The first Redwings of the autumn, 10 in total, flew through this morning, while a single Sand Martin is the latest ever here (previous latest 25 Sep in 2012 and 2017). The Curlew Sandpiper was still in sailing club bay. Total of 497 Teal (332 of them at Millfields). 3 Pintail. Drake RcPochard still. 6 Little Egrets. Kingfisher at Millfields. 9 Skylarks over, heading towards Carsington pastures. High numbers of Meadow Pipits again: 90 at sailing club and Alan S counted 128 from Lane End hide.Simon Roddis
25/09/2022The juv Curlew Sandpiper was at sailing club early morning and later in front of Lane End hide at 10:45. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls at Sheepwash. Also from Lane End, Great Egret, 44 Shoveler, 9 Pintail, 2 RcPochard, 14 Pochard, 121 Meadow Pipits feeding. 21 Dunlin and 16 Ringed Plover. 2 Hobbies (adult and probably a juv) flew fast south over the main centre at 11:35. Male Peregrine. 12 Swallows.Simon Roddis
24/09/202265 Meadow Pipit, 10 Ringed Plover, 27 Dunlin, 15 Goldfinch, 1 Curlew sandpiper on Stones opposite sailing Club , 6 Little Grebe, 2 Kestrel, 2 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Buzzard, 6 Little Egret, 8 Grey Heron, 14 Gadwall,16 Wigeon, 35 Cormorant, 1 PochardDavid Armitt
24/09/2022Evening visit: c4,500 Lesser Black-backs roosting, plus c1,000 BhGs, 34 Common, 5 Yellow-leg (3 ads, 2 first years) and 1 GBbG. The Curlew Sand still at sailing club. 2 RcPochard off Shiningford. c200 Pied Wagtails, 25 Swallows and 10 Starlings went to roost on Watersports island.Simon Roddis
24/09/2022The juv Curlew Sandpiper was again in sailing club bay this morning, along with 24 Dunlin, 19 Ringed Plover, a Redshank and a Great Egret. 3 skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 213 birds flew E between 08:48 and 09:35. Totals of 57 Shoveler (site record, I think), 238 Wigeon and 8 Pintail. The male RcPochard off Shiningford. 47 Cormorant. Kingfisher at Millfields. Skylark over WLC creek.Simon Roddis
23/09/2022The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was still present in front of sailing club later in the day. Plus 21 Ringed Plover, 15 Dunlin and 5 Ruff in the area. 9 Little Egrets and 10 Grey Herons. 46 Cormorants. 122 Wigeon. 45 Shoveler mostly from lane end hide with some further towards sheepwash. Also 9 Pintail from lane end. 5 in front of the hide and 4 more nearer sheepwash. Female Wheatear on the dam wall. 5 Buzzards, female Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls at sheepwash along with 320 Lessers, adult Herring and 10 Common Gulls. 2 Raven over middle wood.Dave Newcombe
23/09/2022The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was again in sailing club bay early morning. 22 Dunlin, Ringed Plover are up to 28 and now 5 Ruff. Two flocks of House Martins totalling 138 went SW. 4 Pintail. 2 RcPochard still. 10 Little Egrets. At least 100 Pied Wagtails and 50 Meadow Pipits around the dam wall and sailing club bay.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
22/09/2022The juv Curlew Sandpiper was still in sailing club bay early afternoon. Other main highlights this morning were a Great Egret in Brown Ale Bay, a juvenile female Merlin past Stones island and a Marsh Tit at the feeder to the side of Paul Stanley hide. Perimeter counts: 8 Coal Tit, 5 Willow Tit, 30 Long-tailed Tit, 49 Chiffchaff, 7 Blackcap, 31 Goldcrests, 78 Wren, 9 Nuthatch, 13 Treecreeper, 9 Song Thrush, 45 Blackbird, 205(!) Robins, 19 Dunnock, 13 Bullfinch. 20 Dunlin, 2 Ruff and 18 Ringed Plover at sailing club. 8 Little Egrets. A Peregrine sitting in front of Lane End hide. 14 Swallows and a House Martin flew through.Simon Roddis
21/09/2022The juv Curlew Sandpiper was at sailing club early morning and then at Millfields to 11:30 at least. 23 Dunlin, 2 Ruff, 6 Ringed Plover, 6 Snipe, 29 Lapwing. 781 Canada Geese and 1 Pink-foot flew out early morning, and 311 Greylags flew in. 38 Shoveler. 2 Pintail. The 2 RcPochard still. Single adult Yellow-legged, GBb and Common Gulls. 9 Little Egrets. 1 Peregrine. Very few hirundines today, just 7 Swallow, 1 Sand Martin and a handful unid'd. 15 Chiffchaff. 3 Blackcaps.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
20/09/2022The juv Curlew Sandpiper was at Millfields first thing and then at sailing club. 24 Dunlin. 10 Ringed Plover. 2 LRP. 2 Ruff. 2 Barnacle Geese at Millfields. 5 Pintail off Lane End. c1,000 BhGulls along the dam wall early morning. 8 Little Egrets. c100 Swallows and 5 House Martins. 12 Chiffchaff.Simon Roddis
19/09/2022A juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was in sailing club bay and later at Millfields this morning - much hoped for given the numbers on the east coast recently. 21 Dunlin, the Ruff still, 4 Ringed, 2 LRP and 1 Golden Plover. The 2 RcPochard again roosting at Shiningford. 10 Little Egrets. 22 Chiffchaff and 2 Blackcap. 70 Starlings in fields above Penn Carr. 60 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall. 50 Goldfinches on Stones.Simon Roddis

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