Recent Sightings

DateSightingName
11/10/2026From Sheepwash early evening: Ruff (1), Bl T Godwit (2), Caspian Gull (ad), YLGull (6) - 3-Ads; 2-2nd w; 1st w, Pintail (5+),Richard Lowe
11/10/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 171 Canada, 32 Greylag, 16 Mute Swan plus 3 large cygnets, 2 Garganey (Millfields), 12 Shoveler, 157 Gadwall, 78 Wigeon, 316 Mallard , 20 Pintail, 1,763 Teal(!!), 5 Red-crested Pochard, 79 Common Pochard, 92 Tufted, 7 Moorhen, 1,014 Coot, 17 Little Grebe, 33 GCGrebe, 13 Ringed Plover, 2 Grey Plover (WLC), 13 Lapwing, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Jack Snipe (Hopton reedbed), 4 Snipe, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Dunlin, 26 Cormorant, 5 Little & 3 Great Egrets, 7 Herons.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
10/10/2026From Sheepwash Hide early evening: Grey Plover (Juv); Mediterranean Gull 1st w; YLGull (7) - Ad (4), 2nd w (2), 1st w; Pintail (c.15).Richard Lowe
10/10/2026A female Merlin flew down the east side mid-morning, in line with its just-about-annual status. The 2 Garganey were still at Millfields, where Clive also had 9 Ringed Plovers. 3 Ruff at sailing club. Very little moving this morning compared to the last couple of days.SJR, MW, CA
09/10/2026From Sheepwash late afternoon/early evening: Mediterranean Gull 1st w; YLGull (7) - 4Ads, 2nd w, 1st w (2); Pintail (c10); Goldeneye (1); RC Pochard (3); Ruff (1); Bl T Godwit (2);Richard Lowe
09/10/2026It was mainly Redwings on the move this morning, with 1,420 flying S or SW 07:30-10:00. 3 Whooper Swans, perhaps the same birds as yesterday, flew in from the NW but soon departed E. 2 Garganey still at Millfields and a drake Common Scoter from Sheepwash. 3 Ruff and 2 Black-tailed Godwits still. 2 Great and 8 Little Egrets. Adult Yellow-legged and Herring Gulls at Sheepwash. Male Stonechat in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
08/10/2026From Sheepwash this afternoon: Caspian Gull adult, Yellow-legged Gull 4 (3ads, 1st Winter), Great Black-backed Gull ad, Mediterranean Gull 1st winter. Pintail 3, Red-crested Pochard, Ringed Plover 7, Dunlin 1.CA/RJL
08/10/2026A very decent morning, with a bit of movement and a few birds on and around the water. Vismig included 2,200 Woodpigeons S in 90 minutes, 90 Redwing, 31 Starling, 24 Skylarks and 30 Pink-footed Geese E. 3 Whooper Swans dropped in just after 09:00 and were there to 11:00 at least (first of the year here as far as I'm aware). The 2 Garganey were still at Millfields, along with 18 Pintail, 30 Shoveler, 80 Wigeon, 104 Pochard and 4 Red-crested Pochard, and Clive had a male Mandarin there briefly. At sailing club/WLC, 3 Dunlin, 5 Ringed Plover, 1 Ruff and 2 Black-tailed Godwits. 42 Cormorants. Probably 2 Great Egrets. 5 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing. 6 Jays (5 over Millfields carpark) and at least 30 Ravens. Willow Tit in WLC creek.SJR, MW, RPJ, AMD, CA
06/10/2026The 2 juvenile-type Garganey were still at Millfields this morning. Totals of 19 Shoveler, 111 Wigeon, 11 Pintail and 106 Pochard. 86 Woodpigeons and 29 Stock Doves S in one hour. At sailing club, 5 Dunlin, 3 Ruff and 7 Ringed Plover, and 1 Black-tailed Godwit at WLC. 3 Great Egrets still. 5 Redwing flew through. 4 Stonechats again in WLC fields. 50 Linnets at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
05/10/2026As well as the report by Alan; 4 Stonechat in WLC Creek and 14 Siskin flew SW.Clive Ashton
05/10/2026This morning from Millfields, 2 Gargany, 7 Pintail, 3 Great White Egrets were visible from there, also 7 Little Egrets other waterfoul included Shovellers, Wigeon, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Gadwall and large numbers of Teal , 1 adult Yellow legged gull . From Stones Island, 3 Ruff,5 Dunlin, 5 Ringed Plovers .AHS, CA, MR.
04/10/2026Two Garganey at Millfields early evening and 1st w Mediterranean Gull and 4 YL Gulls (2Ads; 2-1st w’s) from Sheepwash.Richard Lowe
04/10/2026Species seen during today's monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island WLC creek): House Sparrow, Mallard, Little Egret, Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Black-headed Gull, Canada Goose, Robin, Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Lapwing, Carrion Crow, Tufted Duck, Cormorant, Wren, Magpie, Mute swan, Greylag goose, Dunnock, Great tit, Blue tit, Long-tailed tit, Kestrel, Lesser black-backed gull, Gt Crested Grebe, Linnet, Goldfinch, Snipe, Little grebe, Buzzard, Great egret, Blackbird, Teal, Gadwall, Grey heron, Black-tailed Godwit.Gary Atkins
04/10/2026The Garganey was still at Millfields this morning, and 2 redhead Goosander dropped in there. I didn't count them but a lot of wildfowl appear to have retreated to the north end of the reservoir. Wonder why that is? A Ruff and 4 Dunlin were at sailing club and 2 Black-tailed Godwits still at WLC. 3 Great Egrets still. 6 GSWoodpeckers at various spots. Male Stonechat in WLC fields, 30 Linnets on Stones and a Redpoll over Millfields.Simon Roddis
03/10/2026From Sheepwash hide late afternoon: Med Gull (Ad); YLGull (4) Ads; Pintail (8); GWEgret (1);Richard Lowe
03/10/202640 Pochard, 12. Little Grebe,17 Cormorant,2 Grey Heron,20 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler ,25 Gadwall, 8 Linnet, 4 Great White Egret , 30 + Pied Wagtail , 10 Snipe 3 at WLC 7 Sailing club,18 Lapwing, 6 Dunlin, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chiffchaff Singing at Sheepwash, 4 Ringed Plover, 4 Little Egret, Curlew sandpiper at WLC , no sign of the SpoonbillDave Armitt
03/10/2026Clive saw the Spoonbill at Millfields first thing but not thereafter. Garganey still there. Another mass disturbance event, this time caused by small boats going up the reservoir, 100s of wildfowl flushed. Some of them then dropped into Millfields, including 18 Shoveler, 81 Wigeon, 17 Pintail. 3 female-type Red-crested Pochard also there. 3 Ringed Plover, 3 Dunlin and 2 Black-tailed Godwits still. At least 2 Great Egrets. 11+ Skylarks over and the first Redpoll of the autumn over Stones causeway.SJR, CA, MW
02/10/2026From Sheepwash Hide early evening (with Clive Ashton): Med Gull 1st w. YLGull (4) - 2 Ads, 1st w, 2nd w. Caspian Gull - 2Ads. Plus a Ring-billed / Lesser Black-backed Hybrid that seems to tour the Midland’s reservoirs every autumn/winter, seen at Carsington in previous years and well spotted by CA. Plus Pintail (4).Richard Lowe
02/10/2026The juvenile Spoonbill was again at Millfields late morning until flushed by an irresponsible dog-owner. Not just the Spoonbill but some hundreds of duck - including the long-staying Garganey - and other wildfowl too. Very annoying! Before that, I counted 22 Shoveler, 67 Wigeon, 15 Pintail and 39 Pochard. Just one female Red-crested Pochard at Millfields. Waders included 8 Dunlin, 3 Ringed Plover, 3 Common Sandpipers and 2 Black-tailed Godwits. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. 3 Great Egrets. 4 Tawny Owls calling early morning. 35 Meadow Pipits. 9 Siskin.Simon Roddis
01/10/2026The Spoonbill found by Simon was mobile between Millfields and Stones Island. We understand from other birders that it was still at Millfields late in the day. 7 Little Egrets. 3 Herons. 75 Wigeon. 6 Red-crested Pochard (2m) on Millfields Island. 100 Gadwall. Female Goldeneye. Sailing Club end of the dam wall-6 Dunlin, 6 Ringed Plover and a Snipe. 4 Common Sands. The 2 Blackwits and Greenshank at Wildlife centre. 2nd winter Med Gull at Sheepwash along with 3 YLG-1st w, 2nd w and an adult. 39 Common Gulls. 4 Swallows through-3 & 1. 9 Chiffchaff. 3 Raven. With Chris BrownDave Newcombe/Chris Brown
01/10/2026A juvenile Spoonbill at Millfields this morning was a bit of a surprise, the sixth Carsington record. The Garganey was also still at Millfields. 2 Egyptian Geese off Watersports late morning. At least 64 Wigeon, 10 Pintail and 4 Red-crested Pochard (3 males). 9 Ringed Plover, 8 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwits still and 3 Common Sandpipers. 3 Great Egrets. Totals of 9 Jays, 8+ Skylarks, 2 Swallows and 2 Blackcaps.Simon Roddis
30/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon/early evening: in the gulls - Mediterranean Gull (2) - Ad plus 1st w. YLGull (13) - Ad (7); 2w (3); 1st w (3). GBBGull 1st w.Richard Lowe
30/09/2026Yesterday's Grey Plover was still at Sheepwash late morning, and the Garganey at Millfields. A flock of at least 25 Redshank flew in and landed on Watersports island; another flock of 10-12 fly-though waders might also have been Redshank. 7 Red-crested Pochard and a Green Woodpecker at Millfields. 2 Black-tailed Godwits again at WLC and totals of 5 Common Sandpiper and 8 Dunlin. 3 Great Egret. Marsh Tit calling at SHeepwash and 40 Linnets on Stones island.Simon Roddis
29/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: In the gulls - YLGull (8) - 4 Ads, 3-1st w’s plus 2nd w; GBBGull (Ad). Plus Pintail (3); GWEgret.Richard Lowe
29/09/2026A Grey Plover flew into Sheepwash early morning and was still there to 10:20 at least. The Curlew Sandpiper was still at Watersports/Horseshoe island and the Garganey at Millfields. 11 Pintail and 6 (possibly 8) Red-crested Pochard. 3 Great Egret. Waders included Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwits, 4 Common Sandpipers, 8 Dunlin and 6 Ringed Plover. 30 Meadow Pipits at Watersports.SJR, RPJ, AMD, AHS
28/09/2026At 11.18 6 x Dunlin + 1 Curlew Sandpiper photographed at end of concrete slipway to left of cycle hire.Bernard Dumbleton
28/09/2026The Garganey is still at Millfields this morning but I didn't see the Curlew Sandpiper or the Dunlin flock that it hung around with. 2 Black-tailed Godwit still and 2 Common Sandpiper. A vocal Peregrine sat on one of the pylons beyond WLC creek. 3 Great Egret. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at Sheepwash. 4 Skylarks over.Simon Roddis
27/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon in the gulls: Caspian Gull 1st w (Dutch ringed); YLGull (4) - Ad, 2nd w plus 2-1st w’s. GBBGull 1st w. Plus Pintail (5); Wigeon (c20), GWEgret; L Egret; Ringed Plover (1).Richard Lowe
27/09/2026Juvenile Curlew Sandpiper again around Watersports and the Garganey was at Millfields again this morning. Wildfowl included 44 Shoveler, 202 Gadwall (new site record), 62 Wigeon, 11 Pintail, 5 Red-crested and 53 Common Pochard. 2 Black-tailed Godwits still, single Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper and Greenshank, and 10 Dunlin. 3 Great Egrets at Watersports. Total of at least 7 Tawny Owls calling early morning.Simon Roddis, c
26/09/2026The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was again in the Watersports/Horseshoe area this morning, along with 12 Dunlin, 2 Black-tailed Godwits and a Greenshank. The juvenile-type Garganey also still at Millfields, along with 13 Shoveler, 3 Pintail and 30 Wigeon. Great Egret still around Watersports. 5 Skylarks over.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
25/09/2026The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was still in the Watersports area this morning, a Turnstone flew past Stones island and the Garganey was at Millfields. Supporting cast of 45 Wigeon, 7 Pintail, 6 Red-crested Pochard, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 12+ Dunlin, adult Yellow-legged Gull, 2 Great Egrets, 3 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing, Marsh Tit at Sheepwash, 1 Siskin over the WLC.SJR, CA, AHS
24/09/2026A juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was at Sailing Club with at least 5 Dunlin this morning. Garganey still, 2 Black-tailed Godwit on Horseshoe, Ringed Plover heard, Common Sandpiper and 2 Great Egret.Clive Ashton
23/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon of note: Caspian Gull 1st w (yellow ring on left tibia, from Holland); YLGull (5) - 4 Ads plus 1st w; GBBGull (2) - Ad plus 1st w; Pintail (2); Ringed Plover (8);Richard Lowe
23/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon of note: Caspian Gull 1st w (yellow ring on left tibia, from Holland); YLGull (5) - 4 Ads plus 1st w; GBBGull (2) - Ad plus 1st w; Pintail (2); Ringed Plover (8);Richard Lowe
23/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon of note: Caspian Gull 1st w (yellow ring on left tibia, from Holland); YLGull (5) - 4 Ads plus 1st w; GBBGull (2) - Ad plus 1st w; Pintail (2); Ringed Plover (8);Richard Lowe
23/09/20265 Red-crested Pochard, 5 Pintail, Garganey, 2 Great Egret, 5 Little Egret, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 4 Dunlin, Ringed Plover, 10 Snipe, 2 Common Sandpiper, Kestrel on Stones.Clive Ashton
22/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon of note: Turnstone (2); RPlover (5); Common Sandpiper (1); Pintail (2); Caspian Gull (ad) - the ‘regular’ bird, albeit spending much of its time at Ogston; YLGull (4) - 2Ads, 1st w, 2nd w;Richard Lowe
22/09/2026Garganey still at Millfields, 7 Pintail at Sheepwash, 2 Great Egret, Black-tailed Godwit, Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpiper, 6+ Dunlin, 6 Snipe, Kingfisher at WLC, Stonechat in the creek.CA/RPJ/AMD
21/09/2026No sign of Pectoral Sandpipers or Spotted Redshank this morning. Garganey at Millfields, 2 Great Egret, 3 Common Sandpiper, Black-tailed Godwit at Sailing Club, Greenshank at Wildlife centre, 2 Willow Tit and Stonechat in Wildlife Centre creek, loose flock of 6 Jay S/W over Millfields.CA,AHS
20/09/201912, Shoveler,2 pectoral sandpiper,1 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 40 Wigeon, 20 Gadwall, 2 Little Egret, 30 Pied wagtail, 2 Wheatear, 8 Mute swan, 1 Chiffchaff, 10 Little Grebe, Dropped in midafternoon for a quick walk started at Millfield's walked the Dam wall and back surprised that the waders didn't move on with the activity along the shore line.Dave Armitt
20/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon: YLGull (8) - Ad (7); 1st w (1). GBBGull (2) - Ad plus Juv/1st w; Herring Gull (3); GWEgret (1); Dunlin (5); R Plover (3); Pintail (2); Peregrine (1);Richard Lowe
20/09/2026Both Pectoral Sandpipers and the Garganey were at Millfields again this morning. Vismig from WLC creek involved 690 Meadow Pipits SW in 2 hours, 2 Skylarks, a Yellowhammer (Carsington mega!), 21 Swallows and 17 Linnets. On the dam wall early on, Wheatear, Yellow Wagtail, 100 Pied Wagtails and a Kingfisher. 13 Shoveler, 3 Wigeon, 4 Pintail, 6 Red-crested Pochard, 38 Common Pochard and a redhead Goosander. The juvenile Black-tailed Godwit was at sailing club early morning and later in Brown Ale Bay. 2 Yellow-legged, 2 Great Black-backed and 7 Common Gulls. 2 Great Egret. 2 Stonechat, a Redstart and 60 Goldfinch in WLC fields. Willow Emerald damselfly in BABay.SJR, CA, MW
19/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon:of note in the gulls - YLGull (7) - Ad (4), 2nd w (1), 1st w (2); HGull c4+; GBBGull 1st w. Plus GWEgret (1); Pintail (2+); Shoveller (10+). Surprisingly, no waders.Richard Lowe
18/09/2026The 2 Pectoral Sandpipers and Garganey were still at Millfields this morning, the Pecs even staying despite disturbance by a paddleboarder late morning. At least 11 species of wader, including c15 Ringed Plover, 5+ Dunlin, Redshank, Greenshank, Turnstone on Stones (courtesy of the Hattersleys), juv Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Ruff (per Dave H) at WLC. 6 Red-crested Pochard off Lane End. 2 Great Egret. Hobby circling late morning. Skylark over the main centre. Sand Martin over Stones (getting quite late for them now). Wheatear again on the dam wall. Light movement of Meadow Pipits (25+) and 70 Pied Wagtails out of their roost in Hopton reedbed early on.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
17/09/2026The 2 Pectoral Sandpipers and Garganey were again at Millfields this morning, plus a Greenshank. 13 Ringed Plover, 7 Dunlin and 4 Red-crested Pochard at Sheepwash, plus single Common and Great Black-backed Gulls. At least 2 Great and 5 Little Egrets. Peregrine enjoying the breeze with corvids over Hall Wood. Hirundines on the move included at least 40 Swallows and 50 House Martins. Wheatear on the dam wall.SJR, CA, MW
15/09/2026From Sheepwash Hide mid/late afternoon: Garganey (at about 6pm, then flew off towards Lane End); Pintail (2); YLGull (4) - 3Ads plus a 1st w; GBBGull 1 Juv; GWEgret (1); Ringed Plover (13); Dunlin (8+); Greenshank (1);Richard Lowe
15/09/2026This morning: The 2 Pectoral Sandpipers still present at Millfields along with the Garganey and a Greenshank. Sheepwash 15 Ringed Plover and 8 Dunlin. Stones/Wildlife Centre: Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Common Sandpiper, 2f Red-crested Pochard and Great Egret.Clive Ashton
14/09/2026Short visit this afternoon: Total of 24 Ringed Plover, 2 Dunlin, 3 Common Sandpiper, Greenshank, Great Egret, 2 Pintail, 2 YL Gull, ad Caspian Gull.Clive Ashton
12/09/2026The 2 Pectoral Sandpipers are still here this morning, initially at sailing club/Horseshoe island and then at Millfields late morning. Monthly wildfowl count: 276 Canada, 59 Greylag, 23 Mute Swan, 1 Garganey, 29 Shoveler, 176 Gadwall, 10 Wigeon, 523 Mallard, 9 Pintail, 897 Teal, 5 Red-crested and 35 Common Pochard, 221 Tufted, 1 Goldeneye, 9 Moorhen, 839 Coot, 18 Little Grebe, 32 GCGrebe, 14 Ringed Plover, 9 Lapwing, 3 Common Sandpiper, 5 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank, 4 Snipe, 3 Little and 1 Great Egret, 8 Heron. The Gadwall and Mallard counts are both new site records.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
11/09/2026Another autumn day, another surprise: a Pectoral Sandpiper, first for the site (apparently present and photographed yesterday evening). Initially this morning at sailing club with a Ruff before being flushed; it was later relocated on Horseshoe island, there up to midday at least. The Little Stint was still at Sheepwash. Other waders: 14 Ringed Plover, 8 Dunlin, 2 Greenshank, 4 Common Sandpiper, Black-tailed Godwit. Duck included a juvenile Shelduck, 29 Shoveler, 14 Wigeon, 6 Pintail, the Garganey at Millfields, and 5 Red-crested Pochard. At least 1 Great Egret. Marsh Tit at Paul Stanley.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton et al.
10/09/2026Another excellent autumn morning. The Garganey was at Millfields early morning, an Osprey flew south at 09:30 and one Little Stint was at Sheepwash late morning. A juvenile-type Whinchat and a male Stonechat were in WLC creek mid morning; the Whinchat hung around for at least an hour. Totals of 566 Canada Geese, 171 Greylags, 12 Shoveler, 6 Pintail (in Brown Ale Bay), 2 female Red-crested Pochard, 16 Ringed Plover, 7 Snipe, 7 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank. 2 Redshank at Watersports were new and a Black-tailed Godwit flew west. Great Egret also at Watersports and a Hobby flew through. Totals of 21 Ravens, 70 Swallows, 10 House and 4 Sand Martins. 5 Jays flew over Hall Wood. Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall.SJR, RPJ, AMD, MW
09/09/2026One juvenile Little Stint was atill at Sheepwash early morning, and the Garganey again at Millfields. 1 Pintail at sailing club and 2 female Red-crested Pochard off Horseshoe island. 44 Pochard. 13 Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 8 Snipe, 2 Dunlin. Adult Yellow-legged Gull again. 2 Great Egrets, at Millfields and past Lane End. 2 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end early morning. Totals of 120 Swallows and 70 House Martins. Spotted Flycatcher beyond the top of WLC creek.SJR, CA, MW
07/09/2026The 2 Little Stints were at Sheepwash early morning and later off Stones causeway, and the Garganey was still at Millfields late morning. 4 Pintail were the first of their autumn here. 15 Shoveler. 41 Pochard. 16+ Ringed Plover. 5 Dunlin. 3 Greenshank. 2 Ruff. 8+ Snipe. Adult Yellow-legged and Great Black-backed Gulls. Hobby over Stones. At least 14 Ravens (12 over Sheepwash early morning). Whitethroat on Stones. 20 Swallows and 15 House Martins.SJR, RPJ, AMD
06/09/2026Following are the (36) species identified on the monthly Birwatching for Beginners walk (10am-12noon), taking in Stones Island and as far as the screens by the Wildlife Centre: House Sparrow, Robin, Canada Goose, Ringed Plover, Little Stint, Dunlin, Ruff, Mallard, Gt Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Black-headed Gull, Coot, Moorhen, Pied Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Cormorant, Mute Swan, Chiffchaff, Hobby, Red Kite, Buzzard, Carrion Crow, Magpie, Woodpigeon, Greenshank, Common Sandpiper, Gadwall, Lapwing, Little Egret, Grey Heron, Swallow, Tufted Duck, Teal, Goldfinch, Blue Tit and BlackbirdGary Atkins
06/09/2026The Garganey was still at Millfields this morning, and 2 Knot at Sheepwash. Clive also had the 2 Little Stints there. 3 Ruff and 3 Greenshank. 20+ Ringed Plovers still. 2 Hobbies over Hopton end and at least 1 Reed Warbler in the reedbed. 30 each of Swallow and House Martin. 10+ Ravens.Simon Roddis
04/09/2026The excellent autumn continues, with an Osprey flying south at 08:05, 3 Knot still at Sheepwash, a new site record of at least 41 Ringed Plovers, and a Garganey - quite likely the one that was seen last week - at Millfields late morning. Also 8 Wigeon, female Red-crested Pochard, 30 Common Pochard, 3 Greenshank, 3 Ruff, the Marsh Tit still at Sheepwash, a Yellow Wagtail there, and a trickle of Swallows (48), House Martins (5) and a single Sand Martin.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
03/09/2026The 3 juvenile Knot and the Little Stint were again at Sheepwash this morning, although the stint relocated to Stones island mid-morning (per Ant Pooles). 32 Ringed Plovers, 2 Greenshank, 3 Ruff, 5 Dunlin, 4+ Common Sandpipers. Duck included 23 Shoveler, 2 female Red-crested and 40 Common Pochard, and 153 Greylags flew over the dam wall early morning. Great Egret still, and Kingfisher on the dam wall. c150 Pied Wagtails on the dam wall/sailing club.Simon Roddis
02/09/2026Popped back up to Sheepwash this evening: 3 juvenile Knot still, the Little Stint, 35 Ringed Plovers, 5 Dunlin, 9 Snipe, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 553 Teal.Simon Roddis
02/09/2026A very decent morning, mainly at Sheepwash hide because of the weather. Main highlights were 3 juvenile Knot, 2 Whinchats and a juvenile/winter-plumage Black-necked Grebe, with a supporting cast of 12 Ringed Plover, 16 Snipe, 2 Greenshank, 3 Ruff, 1 Dunlin, adult and juvenile Caspian Gull, adult Yellow-legged Gull and Yellow Wagtail. Female Red-crested Pochard off Horseshoe island and 2 Willow Tits on Stones earlier.SJR, AHS, MW
01/09/2026The Little Stint was again off Stones causeway this morning. Totals of 22 Ringed Plover, 4 Greenshank and single Curlew and Ruff (at Sheepwash). There seemed to be far fewer waterfowl to me today, perhaps they've got fed up with the disturbance. Adult Caspian Gull on Sheepwash spit. 1,200 Jackdaws early morning and a total of 19 Ravens (no shortage of corvids at the moment!). Common and Lesser Whitethroats in WLC creek. At least 150 Goldfinches in total.Simon Roddis
31/08/2026Both Little and Tawny Owls were calling in WLC creek first thing this morning. The Little Stint was on Stones island early morning and later at Sheepwash, with 3 Dunlin. 2 Greenshank, 5 Common Sandpiper, 18 Ringed Plovers. Ruff at Sheepwash late am (CA,AHS). 560 Teal. 38 Shoveler (most of them in Brown Ale Bay). 8 Wigeon. 14 Pochard. 200+ Tufted Duck - Clive counted 185 at Millfields alone. Adult Caspian Gull at MIllfields early on, then on Stones. The Great Egret still around sailing club. 4 single Sparrowhawks. Hobby through Sheepwash (AHS). 4 GSWoodpeckers, including one flying up to mob a Raven! 900 Jackdaws over WLC creek early am. Total of 20 Ravens. Willow Tit on Stones. Totals of 74 Swallows and 10 House Martins. Spotted Flycatcher and female/juv Redstart in WLC creek, and another Spot Fly in Brown Ale Bay (AHS). 2 Meadow Pipits over WLC creek, my first here since April.SJR, CA, MW, AHS
30/08/2026Knot and Little Stint again around Watersports/Stones island this morning. 26 Ringed Plovers on Stones. 2 Ruff at Sheepwash. 6 Common Sandpiper. 3 Greenshank. At least 18 Shoveler, 7 Wigeon and 16 Pochard, but sadly the wildfowl were disturbed again by boats way up the reservoir. Great Egret still and Peregrine at Sheepwash. A late Swift flew with Sand Martins over Stones. 2 Willow Tits also on Stones, a flock of 100+ Goldfinches, and Dave H had a Wheatear on the shore.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD, MW
29/08/2026The Knot (on Stones) and at least 1 Little Stint (Stones and Sheepwash) were still at Carsington this morning. Totals of c20 Ringed Plovers, 8 Dunlin, 2 Ruff (Sheepwash), 3 Greenshank, 2 Green Sandpipers (Watersports/WLC), 10 Snipe. 518 Canadas and 88 Greylags flew out over the dam wall early morning. Totals of at least 23 Shoveler and 32 Pochard. Adult Caspian, Yellow-legged and Great Black-backed Gulls at Sheepwash late morning. The Great Egret still. Swallows (24) and House Martins (20) moving again but fewer than yesterday. Yellow Wagtail on Stones.Simon Roddis
28/08/2026Another entertaining morning. The Little Stint was still at Sheepwash and the Knot (probably just one) turned up there after being around Stones island early doors. Other waders included 20+ Lapwing, 12 Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 22 Snipe, 4 Common Sandpiper, 3 Greenshank and 11 Dunlin. A fresh-looking juvenile Marsh Harrier circled the Fishtail creek area from 10:35 to 11:15 at least, at one point playing around with a Common Buzzard. At least 19 Shoveler, could have been more but they kept moving around. 4+ Red-crested Pochard (2m,2 female-types) on the shore below Middle Wood. 6 Wigeon. Adult Caspian Gull on Sheepwash spit. The Great Egret still. Hobby through WLC creek and Peregrine over the north end. Total of 18 Ravens, including a flock of 15 flying SE, escorted off the premises by one of the local birds. At least 40 Swallows and 20 House Martins moving through. 5 Willow Warblers in the Stones to WLC area.Simon Roddis
27/08/2026The Knot and one juvenile Little Stint were on the shore of Stones island early morning, and presumably the same Little Stint later in front of Sheepwash hide. A flock of 11 Turnstones dropped into Sheepwash at 10:35. Totals of at least 9 Ringed Plover, 3 Little Ringed, 6 Common Sandpiper, 2+ Greenshank, 15 Snipe and 9 Dunlin. 14 Shoveler and 17 Pochard. Adult Yellow-legged Gull and Great Egret still. Marsh Tit calling in Sheepwash wood and Reed Warbler in Brown Ale Bay. 50 Goldfinches at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
26/08/2025JB found 2 Little Stints on the dam wall just after 19:00; they flew after about 10 mins but could easily still be around. Turnstone on Horseshoe island (JB) then calling over sailing club bay, perhaps RJL's bird from Sheepwash? And RJL's Garganey still at Lane End at 19:50. Colour-ringed Little Egret at Millfields and a Black-headed Gull 236B on Stones which I think was ringed as a nestling here in 2022. 3 Spotted Flycatchers still actively flycatching near Lane End at 20:20, I could even hear their bills snapping shut. Magical!Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
26/08/2026From Sheepwash early evening: Turnstone; Shoveller (11); Wigeon (1); Caspian Gull (Ad). From Lane End: Garganey (prob Juv.) with Teal flock, Greenshank (2); Dunlin (2); Caspian Gull 1st w; GBBGull (Juv);Richard Lowe
26/08/2026The Knot was still on Stones/Watersports island this morning, though sometimes disappearing from view. Other waders included 8 Ringed and 4 Little Ringed Plovers, Curlew, 18 Snipe, 8 Common Sandpipers, 3 Greenshank and 2+ Dunlin. Female Goldeneye (same as earlier in the summer) in Brown Ale Bay. 7 Shoveler and 7 Wigeon. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. 47 Cormorant. Great Egret still and 11+ Little. Hobby over Stones again. 2+ Willow Tits in the Stones to WLC area. 2 Willow Warblers on Stones.SJR, CA, AHS
25/08/2026A Marsh Tit (calling and seen) at Brown Ale Bay this morning was a surprise. A visiting birder reported a winter-plumage Knot on Stones. Other waders included 5 Greenshank, Dunlin, Ruff, at least 4 Ringed and 2 Little Ringed Plovers, 6 Common Sandpipers and 12 Snipe. Totals of 429 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 3 Red-crested and 22 Common Pochard and 612 Coot. Long-stayers included the adult Caspian Gull from Sheepwash hide and the Great Egret at Watersports. 2 Kingfishers in Shiningford creek. A Hobby low over Stones and the Cetti's Warbler still in Hopton reedbed.Simon Roddis
24/08/2026From Lane End hide early evening: Osprey flew south over Dam Wall at 5.55pm causing mass panic in the gull flock on Sailing Club Is.An obvious Juv/1st w Caspian Gull in the gull roost later. GWEgret in front of hide.Richard Lowe
24/08/2026Birds of note from this morning, 16 Snipe, 7+ Common Sandpiper, 4+Greenshank, 8 Ringed Plovers, 1 Ruff, possible Green Sandpiper and Wood Sandpiper in BABay but sun was making observation very difficult, 3 singing Willow Warblers, 1 Caspien Gull at Sheepwash and Great White Egret in Water Sports bay.AHS, CA.
23/08/2026The Wood Sandpiper was right up in Shiningford creek this morning; perhaps it has been there for the last couple of days when we haven't seen it. 3 Shoveler at Sheepwash and 3 Red-crested Pochard still. Juvenile Black-tailed Godwit still at sailing club, 4 Greenshank, 10 Snipe, Dunlin, 3 Ringed Plover. Great Egret still at Watersports. Hobby over WLC creek. At least 1 Willow Tit on Stones. Warblers included Cetti's still in Hopton reedbed and Whitethroat there, Sedge Warbler on Stones, 3 Willow Warblers. Spotted Flycatcher in Sheepwash carpark.SJR, CA, MW
22/08/2026Best moment of the morning was at 09:51, 18 minutes after Robin Elliott had told me that 4 Turnstones had flown through Ogston Res and were heading in the Carsington direction. Lo and behold, 4 Turnstones flew past Stones island. Marvellous! A close second was a lovely juvenile Sanderling found by Clive on Stones. The juvenile Black-tailed Godwit was still at sailing club, and other waders included single Ruff, Redshank and Dunlin, 2 Greenshank, at least 1 Ringed and 2 Little Ringed Plovers, 6 Snipe and 4 Common Sandpipers. Adult Yellow-legged and Herring Gulls. The Great Egret still and 15 Little. A kettle of birds over the east side included 10 Ravens, 7 Buzzards and 3 Red Kites. Kingfisher and Yellow Wagtail along the dam wall, and another Yellow Wag over Stones. Willow Tits on Stones and in WLC creek. Totals of at least 50 Swallows and 80 House Martins.SJR, CA, MW
21/08/2026Seemed a bit quieter today (21st), certainly fewer waders, although a fresh juvenile Black-tailed Godwit was new. 3 Greenshank, 2 Green Sandpipers, 6 Snipe, 2 Ringed and a Little Ringed Plover. 6 Curlew flew W over the WLC. 3 Red-crested Pochard at Sheepwash. 41 Cormorants. The Great Egret still. Single Hobby and Peregrine. Whitethroats at Sheepwash and WLC creek. 2 Spotted Flycatchers in Sheepwash carpark.SJR, AHS, CA, RPJ, AMD
21/08/2026Osprey flew over our heads by wildlife centre late morning. Fantastic it was so close, great view.Alan Ball
20/08/2026The highlight this morning was 2 Cattle Egrets on the shore of Stones island, from 07:30 to 09:30 at least. The Wood Sandpiper was still near the WLC. Not quite so many waders as a few days ago but still 3 Greenshank, 2 Green and 7 Common Sandpipers, 7 Snipe, 3 Ringed and 1 Little Ringed Plovers and a Dunlin. Female Red-crested Pochard in Brown Ale Bay. 3 Shoveler and 3 Wigeon. The Great Egret still. Hobby past the top of WLC creek and a Redstart still in the fields. Willow Tits in WLC creek and on Stones. Whitethroat on Stones and at least 2 Yellow Wagtails in the area. 175 House Martins, a few Swallows and a late Swift flew W after a heavy shower late morning.Simon Roddis
19/08/2026The Wood Sandpiper was again in its favoured area at the Watersports end of Horseshoe island this morning. Totals of 5 Greenshank, 6 Common and 3 Green Sandpipers, 6 Snipe, 27 Lapwing. Juvenile Shelduck on Stones. Adult Common Tern off Lane End. The adult Caspian Gull and Great Egret still. Willow Tit, Reed Warbler and 2 Willow Warblers on Stones. Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
18/08/2026Evening visit: an Osprey circled the Sheepwash area 18:20-18:30. At least 3,500 Lesser Black-backs came into roost by 9pm. Wood Sandpiper, Greenshank, Ringed Plover and 2 Oystercatchers from the dam wall. c500 Jackdaws and 100 Rooks went to roost in Tail Bay.Simon Roddis
18/08/2026Osprey flying over at WLC.Christina Kennedy
18/08/2026Another decent morning, with a total of 11 species of wader, including the Wood Sandpiper still, 6 Green Sandpipers, 3+ Greenshank, 5 Dunlin, 2 Ringed and 2 Little Ringed Plovers, a flyover Golden Plover and an Oystercatcher. 6 Arctic Terns flew through and a juvenile Common lingered for a while. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. Egyptian Goose still, 3 Wigeon off Stones and eclipse male Red-crested Pochard on Horseshoe island. Great Egret still at Watersports. Cetti's Warbler still in Hopton reedbed. Willow Tit on Stones and 3 Yellow Wagtails flew S.SJR, AHS, CA
17/08/2026From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: Caspian Gull (2) - Ad and 1st s; YLGull (2) Ads; GBBGull (1) 1st s; Greenshank (2) juvs; Snipe (2); Shoveller (2).Richard Lowe
17/08/2026A Turnstone, Ringed Plover and Greenshank were at the sailing club end of the day wall early morning, and a drake Common Scoter out in the middle. The Wood Sandpiper was still around Horseshoe island and the adult Caspian Gull off Stones. Total of 5 Green Sandpipers. Adult Great Black-backed Gull eating a dead Coot! The Great Egret still off Stones causeway. Kingfisher and Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall. c50 Swallows at the draw-off tower and a total of c120 House Martins there and over Shiningford. Whitethroat at Hopton end and 4 Reed Warblers in different spots.Simon Roddis
15/08/2026From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: YLGull (2) - Ad plus Juv; GBBGull Ad; GWEgret; Watersports/Wildlife hide: Wood Sandpiper juv; Green Sandpiper (3+), Common Sandpiper (4+); Dunlin (2) juvs; Greenshank (3) juvs; Ruff juv; Snipe (4);Richard Lowe
15/08/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 105 Canada Geese, 6 Greylag, 21 Mute Swans plus 3 cygnets, 8 Shoveler, 118 Gadwall, 1 Wigeon, 354 Mallard, 264 Teal, 3 Red-crested Pochard, 6 Pochard, 136 Tufted, 30 Moorhen, 726 Coot, 14 Little Grebe, 47 GCGrebe, 26 Lapwing, 1 Ringed and 1 Little Ringed Plover, 3 Common, 4 Green and 1 Wood Sandpiper, 2 Greenshank, 1 Ruff, 5 Dunlin, 2 Snipe, 27 Cormorant, 12 Little and 1 Great Egret, 9 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher. Plus Cetti's Warbler in Hopton reedbed, Peregrine, Golden Plover (JB) and 2 Black-tailed Godwits (Mike R) over, adult Caspian Gull.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
14/08/2026From Sheepwash Hide late afternoon of note: Caspian Gull 1st s; YLGull (3) - 2 Ads plus juv; GBBGull 1st s; Pochard (f); GWEgret (1); From Wildlife Hide/Watersports: Yellow Wagtail juv; Dunlin juv; Ruff (2) juvs; Green Sandpiper (3+); Common Sandpiper (4+); Snipe (5); GWEgret (1);Richard Lowe
14/08/2025A Cetti's Warbler was calling in Hopton reedbed first thing (first of the year as far as I'm aware). 5 Green Sandpipers, 2 Ruff, 7 Dunlin and 6 Snipe around Watersports/Horseshoe island. 4 Shoveler and the 2 drake Red-crested Pochard in Brown Ale Bay. Great Egret on the back of Watersports island. Kingfisher and Willow Warbler at Hopton end, and a small trickle of southbound Swallows and House Martins overhead.Simon Roddis
13/08/2026The Wood Sandpiper was again between Watersports and the WLC this morning. Total of 8 Green and 4 Common Sandpipers, 2 Greenshank, 2 Ruff, 4 LRP, 6 Dunlin. Egyptian Goose in Brown Ale Bay. Great Egret at Sheepwash. Willow Warbler at Hopton end and juvenile Common Whitethroat on Stones.Simon Roddis
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


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
27/09/2021An adult Common Tern was around Stones and sailing club mid-morning. 6 Swallows through. 47 Barnacle Geese. 67 Gadwall. 6 Pintail. 61 Pochard. 3 Dunlin through. 52 Cormorants. Just 6 Chiffchaffs and a Blackcap the only other migrants.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
26/09/20213 single Rock Pipits flew S during the morning, over Stones just before 8 and just after 9, then over Brown Ale Bay at 10:40. 1,915 Canada Geese flew out over the dam wall early morning, and 763 Greylags flew back in. Both look like record counts for the site. 34 Barnacles. 7 Pintail off Stones again, and later in BABay. 80 Lapwing on Horseshoe island and 2 Dunlin from Stones. Adult Yellow-legged Gull still. 37 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. Kingfisher in BABay. 7 Mistle Thrush. 150 Pied Wags on the dam wall and a total of 10 Greys. 47 Meadow Pipits, 4 Skylark and 4 Linnet flew S.Simon Roddis
23/09/20215 juv Arctic Terns flew N at 10:40. 650 Greylags is a new record count. c45 Barnacle Geese with at least 2 Nene hybrids - difficult to see and count as they were mostly sitting down on sailing club shore. 208 Wigeon. 75 Gadwall. 8 Pintail. 80 Pochard. 23 Mute Swans. 51 Cormorants. Peregrine past Stones.SJR, RC, AHS
21/09/2021A mere 1,115 Canadas this morning but the Barnacles were up to 56 and had a Nene (Hawaiian Goose) in tow with them. At least 500 Greylags again. 8 Pintail off Stones and the drake Common Scoter way up the res again. 46 Cormorants. 2 Little Egrets. 78 Rooks over the dam wall, 150 Starlings and 1 Yellow Wag. Summer migrants down to a few Chiffchaffs and 4 Swallows.Simon Roddis
20/09/2021Continuing the wildfowl theme, 26 Pintail (second highest count ever here) with 12 off Stones and another 14 flew in, the drake Common Scoter still off Lane End, 515 Greylags and the returning flock of 35 feral Barnacle Geese. 40 Cormorants. 2 Little Egrets. 17 Buzzards. 3 Grey Wagtails out of Hopton reedbed early morning.Simon Roddis
19/09/2021Wildfowl numbers definitely increasing. Drake Common Scoter off Lane End for its third day. 1,300 Canada Geese could be a record count though maybe not one to be proud of 😉 349 Greylags. 154 Wigeon. 3 Shoveler. 9 Pintail. 79 Gadwall. 66 Pochard. Adult Y-l Gull still. 47 Cormorant. 10 Grey Heron. 2 Little Egret. On the dam wall, 150+ Pied and 2 Yellow Wags, 200 Starlings.Simon Roddis
18/09/20211,185 Canadas, 1 Barnacle and 124 Greylags flew out over the dam wall early morning, plus 80 Rooks, 150 Pied and 3 Yellow Wags, 4 Skylarks. 9 Pintail (5 off Stones, 4 flew S). 57 Wigeon. 52 Pochard. 4 Little Egrets. 3 Wheatear (2 on the dam wall, 1 on wires above WLC fields). 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 4 juv Bullfinches in WLC creek still.Simon Roddis
17/09/2021A very foggy start along the dam wall but still c200 Pied Wags, 2 Yellow and 7 Grey, 1 Wheatear (and another on Stones/Watersports). 5 Pintail. 1 Common Sand. Adult Yellow-legged Gull still. Peregrine past Stones. Total of 49 Meadow Pipits, mostly heading SW. 22 Swallows and 18 House Martins.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
16/09/20216 Snipe WLC Creek, 4 Grey Heron, 150+ Greylag Goose, 15 Mute Swan, 3 Chiffchaff, 5 cormorant, 12 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Little Grebe, 45 Teal, 1 Little Egret, 20 House Martin, 5 Swallow, 3 Wren, 7 Gold Finch, 5 wigeon , 3 Pochard, 40 Lapwing, 5 Gadwall and one Ballon which disturbed all the wildlifeDavid Armitt
15/09/20215 Grey Heron, 1 Common sandpiper, 43 Lapwing, 9 Gadwall, 6 Little Grebe, 6 House Martin, 15 Pied Wagtail, 7 Chiffchaff, 30 Cormorant, 50 Teal, 1 Sparrow Hawk, 20 Goldfinch, 1 Sedge Warbler, 9 Pochard, 7 Moorhen, 1 Buzzard, 6 Tree Sparrow, 2 Little Egret, 15 Mute Swan , 10 Great Crested GrebeDavid Armitt
15/09/2021On the dam wall early morning, c200 Pied and 2 Yellow Wags, 15 Meadow Pipits, 1 Wheatear, 150 Starling and 50 Goldfinch. 2 Pintail again off Stones island. 262 Greylags flew in, most then loafing at Sheepwash. 4+ Red Kites over the east side, 10+ Buzzards, a total of at least 5 Sparrowhawks, and an adult Hobby past Stones. 31 Lapwing, 4 Snipe and a Common Sand around WLC/Horseshoe island. 2 Little Egrets. Total of 45 Swallows and 6 House Martins. 2 Willow Warblers (Stones and WLC creek), a Sedge Warbler on Stones and Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields. 15 Mistle Thrushes flew up the east side, first flock I've seen this year.SJR, AHS, RC
12/09/20211 wheatear on the damLauren Batt
12/09/2021Monthly WeBS count: 1,211 Canada Geese, 2 Barnacle, 167 Greylag, 36 Mute Swan, 77 Gadwall, 65 Wigeon, 240 Mallard, 253 Teal, 40 Pochard, 231 Tufted, 31 Moorhen, 1,032 Coot, 28 Little Grebe, 56 GCGrebe, 48 Lapwing, 1 Common Sand, 2 Snipe, 41 Cormorant, 9 Heron, 3 Little Egret, 3 Kingfisher. c50 each of Swallows and House Martins moving through.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
11/09/2021This morning, 200 Pied, 3 Yellow Wags, 1 Wheatear and 70 Starlings on the dam wall. A few Meadow Pipits moving, counted 18. Adult and juv Yellow-legged Gull. 3 Little Egret. 26 Pochard. The 2 Pintail again off Stones. Common Whitethroat and Spotted Fly in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
10/09/2021On the dam wall early morning, 215 Pied, 2+ Yellow and 3 Grey Wags, 2 Wheatear, 5 Meadow Pipit, 1 Skylark, 89 Rooks over and 1,030 Canada Geese flew out. 2 Pintail again off Stones. Black-tailed Godwit on Stones and Common Sand at Sheepwash. 43 Cormorants. 2 Spotted Flycatchers, a Redstart and Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields, and a Common Whitethroat on Stones.Simon Roddis
08/09/2021A decent morning: a Grey Plover flew SW (calling several times) over the dam wall at 06:45, an Osprey went down the east side at 10:40 and a Spotted Flycatcher was in WLC creek. 224 Greylags. 2 Pintail. 36 Wigeon. 210 Teal. 21 Pochard. 46 Lapwing. 2 Common Sand. 38 Cormorant. 4 Little Egrets. 76 Rooks flew SE over the dam wall early morning, and 180 Pied and 5 Yellow Wags were along the wall. 1 Reed Warbler on Stones island.Simon Roddis
05/09/2021Species seen during monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon ... apologies for late submission!): Red Kite (over Hall Wood), Buzzard (4 together, also over Hall Wood), House Sparrow, Grey Heron, Great Crested Grebe, Coot, Canada Goose, Mallard, Mute Swan, Cormorant, Black-headed Gull, Little Grebe, Carrion Crow, Magpie, Pied Wagtail, Moorhen, Lapwing, Little Egret, Woodpigeon, Teal, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Swallow, House Martin, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Pochard, Blue Tit, Black-tailed Godwit, Tree Sparrow, Jackdaw, Gadwall, Chiffchaff, Robin, Wren, Goldfinch and Tufted Duck. (Also seen by leaders outside the time of the walk: Swift, Gt Spotted Woodpecker, Great Egret and Cattle Egret)Gary Atkins
06/09/2021Roger Carrington, Alan Stewardson, Neil Moulden, Brian Boothby and I have covered the site from dawn to dusk today. 84 species in total. Highlights were a Marsh Harrier and an Osprey, both from Stones island late afternoon. 4 Pintail. 4 Shoveler. 52 Wigeon. 29 Pochard. 5 Dunlin. 1 Redshank. 6,000 Lesser Black-backs came in to roost. 5 Little Egrets. 1 Red Kite. 4 Kingfishers (Millfields, Stones area and 2 at Brown Ale Bay). 7 Raven. c100 Swallows. Common Whitethroat, Reed and Sedge Warblers on Stones. Lesser Whitethroat in WLC creek. 180 Pied and 4 Yellow Wags on the dam wall early morning. 10 Meadow Pipits, mostly flying N.Simon Roddis
05/09/2021A Great Egret flew in at 07:10 and was still around, on Shiningford island, at 11:00. 3 Little Egret. A Black-tailed Godwit on Horseshoe island, Ringed Plover on Stones and 3 Common Sand. 595 Canadas. 53 Greylag. 31 Mute Swan. 211 Teal. 32 Wigeon. Female Shoveler at Sheepwash. 19 Pochard. 2 Swifts again around the visitor centre. 5 Raven. 120 Swallows, including 100 on the dam wall early morning, along with 200 Pied and 4 Yellow Wags. Willow and Sedge Warblers on Stones and a Lesser Whitethroat again in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
04/09/2021A Cattle Egret was on sailing club island around 07:00 this morning then flew past Stones at 08:30. Still reported as present off Sheepwash carpark early afternoon. Third site record. 3 Pintail flew through, departing SW. 177 Teal. 18 Wigeon. 12 Pochard. 3 Swifts around the visitor centre. Juv LRP on Stones. A Dunlin over the dam wall and a Common Sand on Watersports island. 3+ Kingfishers (Millfields, Horseshoe island and possibly 2 in Brown Ale Bay). Adult Y-l Gull still. 50+ House Martins over Stones. Common and 2 Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields. 150 Pied and 3 Yellow Wags on the dam wall. 130 Goldfinch on Stones. Not a bad morning 🙂Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
04/09/2021Cattle Egret still on shoreline at 18.25, viewable from Sheepwash car park.Paul Bennett
03/09/2021163 Teal, 19 Wigeon and 12 Pochard. 3 Little Egrets. Another Swift over the visitor centre, and totals of 25 House and 15 Sand Martins. 36 Lapwing. 3 Dunlin and a Common Sandpiper on Horseshoe island and 6 Snipe at WLC. Hobby over the road near Sheepwash. 150 Pied and 2 Yellow Wags on the dam wall early morning.SJR, AHS, RPJ, AMD
30/08/20215 Little Egrets again, and Teal up further to 155. 14 Wigeon. 3 Red Kites together over Hall Wood mid-morning. 3 Snipe, single Common Sandpiper and Redshank. 2 ad Yellow-legged Gulls. 2 Sedge Warblers still on Stones.Simon Roddis
30/08/20214 Grey Heron, 5 Little Egret, 16 Mute Swan, 1 little Ringed Plover, 30 Lapwing, 9 Little Grebe, 1 Kingfisher,20 Pied Wagtail, 2 Pochard,79 Teal, 10 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Redshank,1 Red Kite, 1 Buzzard, 10 Cormorant, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Gadwall, 5 Tree Sparrow, 30 Goldfinch, 6 Long Tailed Tit, 3 Chiffchaff, 1 NuthatchDavid Armitt
29/08/2021190 Pied and 1 Yellow Wag on the dam wall early morning, along with 2 juv Wheatears. 5+ Little Egrets. Wildfowl numbers increasing: 144 Teal, 16 Wigeon, 15 Pochard. 32 Lapwing. 3 Ringed Plover on Flat island. 35 Cormorant. Kingfisher at Millfields. c80 House Martins, most of them over Sheepwash. 2 Sedge Warbler, Common Whitethroat and Willow Warbler still on Stones.Simon Roddis
28/08/2021Plenty of birds though no surprises this morning. 4 Little Egrets. 1f Shoveler. 2 Red Kites over the east side. 3 GBbGull and 2 Yellow-legs (adult and juvenile). Kingfisher at Hopton end. 2 Lesser and a Common Whitethroat at top of WLC creek.Simon Roddis
26/08/2021Evening visit: at least 7,150 Lesser Black-backs came in to roost. 3 adult Yellow-legs. 2 juvenile Ruffs on Stones. c150 Starlings looked as if they were going to roost on Watersports island.Simon Roddis
26/08/2021A juv Ringed Plover was on the dam wall early morning and a late Swift flew past the main centre around 10:45. 2 Little Egrets still. 7+ Raven including a group of 6 N over WLC creek. Numbers of warblers and hirundines dropping daily.Simon Roddis, Ken Rome
25/08/20214 Shelduck flew through at 08:40. Teal now up to 70. 6 Wigeon. 11 Pochard. 3 Little Egrets still, 2 Red Kites again over the east side and the juvenile Greenshank still in Brown Ale Bay late morning. Kingfisher at Millfields and 180 Pied wags on the dam wall. 70 Goldfinches on Stones.Simon Roddis
23/08/2021This morning, 460 Canada Geese, 30 Mute Swans, 48 Teal, sub-ad Herring Gull, 2 adult Yellow-legs, 2 Little Egret, 2 Red Kite over the east side, a Reed Warbler singing at WLC, and 220 Pied and 2 Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall early on.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
22/08/2021Monthly WeBS count: 267 Canada Geese, 2 Barnacle, 233 Greylag, 27 Mute Swan, 4 Shoveler, 49 Gadwall, 221 Mallard, 42 Teal, 5 Pochard, 299 Tufted, 32 Moorhen, 607 Coot, 16 Little Grebe, 51 GCGrebe, 9 Lapwing (+28 over), 1 Common Sand, 1 Greenshank, 27 Cormorant, 10 Heron, 3 Little Egret, 2 Kingfisher. Also: 3 Swifts over Carsington village, 1 Peregrine, 3 Curlew flew N, 2 Snipe S, 5 Raven, Redstart on Stones, Wheatear on the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
20/08/2021A Turnstone flew over the dam wall just before 07:00 and a Greenshank dropped onto Stones island at 09:45. 30 Mute Swans. 3 Little Egret. 50 Lapwing. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. 240 Pied Wagtails on the dam wall early morning, and a Kingfisher at each end. Lesser Whitethroat and Redstart in WLC fields. 2 Yellow Wagtails over. 55 Linnet at the top of WLC creek.Simon Roddis
19/08/20213 pristine juvenile Black-tailed Godwits dropped into Stones island for a few minutes this morning, and a juvenile Grasshopper Warbler (another August tick) was in the same bushes as a Reed and 3 Sedge. 28 Teal. 2 Ringed Plover over the dam wall. 16 Buzzards, including a kettle of 10 with 2 Red Kites. 2 Little Egrets. 200 Pied Wags on the dam wall early morning, and a total of 6 Yellows: 2 over the dam wall and 4 on Watersports island.Simon Roddis
18/08/2021A productive morning started with a small wader arrival and movement: a Turnstone and a Ringed Plover on the dam wall, which then flew S; 3 more Ringed Plovers during the morning; 2 Redshank along the dam wall, an Oystercatcher at sailing club and 2 Curlew flew N. Later, an Osprey gave a great performance, coming down the res and floating around for 20 minutes, 10:40-11:00, the first here since April as far as I'm aware. 161 Greylags flew in. Female Shoveler on Horseshoe island. 26 Teal. 7 Pochard. 2+ Little Egret. 1 Swift. 2 Yellow Wagtail and a Lesser Whitethroat on Stones.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
17/08/20212 adult Kittiwakes flew down the res at 09:00 and stayed to 10:30 at least: my first ever August Kittiwakes at Carsi. 305 Greylags. 28 Mute Swan. 45 Gadwall. 7 Pochard. 32 Cormorant. 1 Dunlin. 2 Common Sand. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. 1 Little Egret. 2 Red Kite beyond Fishtail creek. 2 Kingfishers (Hopton end and WLC creek). 25 Sand Martins. c90 Goldfinches on Stones island.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
16/08/2021A flock of 11 Dunlin flying N up the res at 10:50 was this morning's highlight. c300 Greylags flew in during the morning. 35 Mute Swan. 27 Teal. 5 Pochard. 29 Cormorant. 2 Little Egret. Peregrine past Stones. 9 Swifts flew SW. 18 Common Gull. Single adult GBb and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 190 Pied Wags on the dam wall early morning. Single Common Whitethroat, Reed Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher in WLC creek.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
15/08/2021Evening visit: Ruff flew through, Greenshank dropped in, 20 Teal, Kingfisher in BA Bay, 160 Swallows past Stones, presumably going to roost. Gull roost: 4,000 Lesser Black-backs, 1 GBbG, 2 Yellow-legs, 26 Common, 400 Black-heads.Simon Roddis
14/08/2021Trying for that Pied Wag record: 240 along the dam wall this morning. 2 Red Kites over the east side. 3 Little Egret. 20 Teal. 5 Pochard. Kingfishers at Hopton end, WLC creek and BA Bay (2 birds maybe? Difficult to know). Totals of 50 Swallow, 25 House Martin and 4 Sand Martin. 1 Swift. Female Redstart in WLC fields. The Stones Goldfinch flock now up to c70.Simon Roddis
13/08/2021Pied Wagtails up to 225 along the dam wall early morning. Juv LRP and adult Peregrine on Watersports island. 3 Little Egrets, adult GBb and Yellow-legged Gulls and 4 Swifts still. Spotted Fly on Stones. c100 House Sparrows again at the main centre. 30 Linnets in fields S of Sheepwash carpark.Simon Roddis
12/08/2021A bit quieter this morning. Just 150 Pied Wags, a Wheatear and the Barnacle Goose family on the dam wall. 1 Ringed Plover over. 3 Little Egrets. 15 Teal. Single adult Yellow-legged and GBbGulls. Garden Warbler at Millfields.Simon Roddis
11/08/2021A Great Egret flew past Stones island about 08:30 and was then mobile, settling on Watersports island and in Shiningford creek before departing S over Millfields at 09:40. 3 Little Egrets. Wildfowl numbers: 29 Mute Swan, 71 Canada, 30 Greylag, 43 Gadwall, 1 Wigeon (first of the autumn), 182 Mallard, 15 Teal, 4 Pochard, 370 Tufted (and a late brood of 2 at Hopton end), 16 Moorhen, 728 Coot, 49 GCGrebe, 17 Little Grebe, 30 Cormorant. 205 Pied, 8 Grey and 1 Yellow Wagtail plus 80 Swallows along the dam wall early morning. 3 Swifts. 4 Kestrel over Carsington pastures. Redstart and 4 Lesser Whitethroats in WLC creek/fields. Spotted Flycatcher on Stones. 20 Tree Sparrows at WLC.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
10/08/2021c300 Swallows from Millfields early morning, looked as if many of them might have roosted on Stones. 27 Mute Swan. 40 Greylag. The Barnacle family, still with 4 young, are back at Millfields. 7 Pochard (4m,3f). 1 Little Egret. 3 Swifts still around the main centre, and 100+ House Sparrows there. c100 Lapwing around Horseshoe island. Adult GBb and Yellow-legged Gulls. 2 Kingfishers (Millfields and BA Bay). 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Common Whitethroat and female Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
09/08/2021Early Monday morning, 65 Swallows out of Hopton reedbed and c100 at Millfields, 160 Pied Wags along the dam wall, and single Wheatears on the dam wall and at sailing club. Spotted Flycatcher and 2 Garden Warblers at Millfields. 2 Little Egrets. 12 Teal. 6 Pochard (4m,2f). 4 Swifts around the main centre. 60 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. Adult LRP and juv Ringed Plover on Watersports island. 2 Common Sand. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. 90 House Sparrows at the main centre and 70 Goldfinch on Stones. 1f Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
03/08/2021This morning from Stones Island, 2 Shoveller, 1 Yellow legged gull,1 Redstart, 3 Swift, warblers included Lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap,Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff and Sedge Warbler.A H Stewardson
02/08/2021A female-type Common Scoter was off Stones island early morning and later off Sheepwash carpark. 2 Little Egret. 47 Swifts flew SW. Kingfisher at Millfields. 2 Common and a Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
01/08/2021Species noted during the monthly 'Birdwatching for Beginners' walk (10am-noon, around Stones Island, WLC and WLC Creek): House Sparrow, Swift, Great Crested Grebe, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Pied Wagtail, Coot, Mallard, Carrion Crow, Black-headed Gull, Blue Tit, Goldfinch, Moorhen, Lapwing, Grey Heron, Little Grebe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, House Martin, Sand Martin, Blackbird, Dunnock, Willow Tit, Swallow, Tufted Duck, Sedge Warbler, Woodpigeon, Whitethroat, Redstart, Gadwall, Chiffchaff, Magpie, Cormorant, Wren, Blackcap, Robin, Song Thrush, Pochard and RedshankGary Atkins
01/08/2021130 Pied Wagtails and a Skylark on the dam wall early morning. Hobby and Peregrine from Stones island. 3 Redshank (2 adults and a juv) on Horseshoe island. 1 Common Sand. Garden Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher at Millfields. 2 Redstart and 2 Whitethroat in WLC fields. 30 Sand Martins.Simon Roddis
31/07/2021Evening visit 1930-2100: a few gulls in by then, 530 Black-heads, 60 Lessers, 8 Common, 2 GBbG, 3 Yellow-legs. 120 Carrion Crows on the dam wall/overflow carpark fields.Simon Roddis
31/07/20213 juv Shelduck flew through SE early morning. 1 Little Egret. Kingfisher at Millfields. 2 Yellow-legged Gull (adult and sub-ad). c150 Sand Martins and 100 Swallows from PS hide. 26 Swifts. Total of at least 9 Reed Warblers in Hopton reedbed and Brown Ale Bay. 50+ Goldfinches on Stones.Simon Roddis
30/07/2021One adult Common Tern around for most of the morning, and a Whimbrel through Millfields early on. c100 House Sparrows at the main centre, the highest count in recent years at least (and one seen carrying and dismembering a Poplar Hawkmoth!). From Stones, c25 Sand Martins, Hobby, Red Kite, adult Yellow-legged Gull, Little Egret, 2 Common Sandpiper. c110 Lapwings on Horseshoe island.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
29/07/20212 adult Arctic Terns were on a buoy off the dam wall early morning, and then I assume one of them around Stones island mid-morning. A summer plumage Black-tailed Godwit on Horseshoe island. 13 Grey Herons. 2 Little Egrets. 95 Pied Wagtails (72 of them along the dam wall early morning). c25 Swifts. 80 Lapwing. Juv LRP still. Reed Warbler singing in WLC creek. Redstarts in WLC fields and Middle Wood. 7 Willow Tits.Simon Roddis
28/07/20213 Common Terns through this morning, a single and a pair, all adults. 8 Barnacle Geese at Millfields, including the 4 growing youngsters (they must have been hiding in the long grass the last few days!). The 2 Ruddy Shelducks were at Millfields early morning (and they can fly!). 1 Little Egret. 2 Common Sand. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls (adult and sub-ad). 20 Swifts over Stones. At least 2 Lesser Whites in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
27/07/20212 Arctic Terns (adult and juvenile) were on a buoy off the dam wall early morning (perhaps having roosted overnight?) until flushed by swimmers. 27 Mute Swans. 2 Little Egret. 1 Ruddy Shelduck at Flat Island. Sub-ad Yellow-legged Gull and 2 GBbG, including Onefoot. 1 Skylark on the dam wall. Redstart and Lesser Whitethroat again in WLC fields, and 2 Garden Warblers on Stones.Simon Roddis
26/07/20218 Grey Heron, 2 Little Egret from Stones causeway, 7 Teal, 2 Pochard, juvenile Red Kite, juv LRP, 1 Common Sand, 2 Redshank on the dam wall, sub-ad Yellow-legged Gull, Kingfisher at Millfields early morning, Redstart and Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields, Reed Warbler on Stones (in Warbler Corner, to be precise) and Garden Warbler on the causeway, 12+ Raven including a flock of 10 N.Simon Roddis
25/07/2021Monthly WeBS count: 2 Little Egret, 8 Grey Heron, 47 GCGrebe, 16 LGrebe, 29 Cormorant, 22 Mute Swan, 350 Canadas, 85 Greylag, 1 Barnacle, 2 Ruddy Shelduck, 137 Mallard, 4 Teal, 35 Gadwall, 261 Tufted,, 1 Pochard, 1 juv Goosander, 19 Moorhen, 333 Coot, 92 Lapwing, 1 juv LRP, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Dunlin, 1 Common Sand. Also 2 Yellow-legged Gull (ad and sub-ad), 1 ad Common Gull, 2 Hobby, 6 Swifts screaming around the main centre, 4 Redstarts under Middle Wood.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
20/07/20216 Common Scoter (4 drakes) off Stones Island 08:15. 1 Dublin flying around Stones Island. 3 Little Egrets and a Common Sandpiper on Sailing Club shore early morning. 2 Ruddy Shelduck still from Sheepwash car park. No Black-headed Gulls on Millfields Island at 10:00!Roger Carrington
15/07/20218 Common Scoter, including 5 drakes, mid-water at 10am. 2 Little Egrets. Adult Yellow-legged Gull on raft near dam. 24 Mute Swans and Tufted with 4 fresh young from Stones Island. Reed Warbler and 2 singing Sedge Warblers still on Stones. Immature female Peregrine diving at Black-headed Gulls around Millfields. Still 2 Ruddy Shelduck at Sheepwash.Roger Carrington
13/07/20212 Little Egrets at Wildlife Centre early morning. Adult Common Gull at Sailing Club, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls (ad+sub ad) and 2 Great Blacked-backed (ad+tailless imm) from Millfields. 2 Ruddy Shelduck still with geese from Sheepwash car park this morning.Roger Carrington
11/07/2021Ad hoc wildfowl count: 969 Canadas, 4 Barnacle (plus 4 young), 240 Greylag, 16 Mute Swan, 2 Ruddy Shelduck from Sheepwash carpark, 28 Gadwall, 125 Mallard, 4 Teal, 1 Pochard, 110 Tufted (plus new brood of 9 at Hopton end), 15 Moorhen, 309 Coot, 11 Little Grebe (plus 2 young below Hall Wood), 50 GCGrebe, 7 Oyc, 40 Lapwing, 2 LRP, 19 Cormorant, 7 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret, adult Yellow-legged Gull. Also 200 Jackdaws over Tail Bay, Lesser Whitethroat with food on Stones island, female Redstart with 3+ juvs below Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
10/07/20215 drake Common Scoter off the dam wall/Stones island early morning. A Little Egret at Paul Stanley hide late morning. 23 Mute Swans. New broods of 7 and 8 Tufted off Stones causeway. 5 male Pochard. 1 Ruddy Shelduck just visible on the shoreline from Sheepwash carpark late morning. Adult LRP and Common Sand at sailing club. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. 7 Grey Herons. Skylark and c40 Pied Wagtails on the dam wall early morning. Lesser Whitethroat singing but mobile in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
09/07/2021A Greenshank was on Horseshoe island around 08:00 this morning. 23 Mute Swans. 4 Barnacle Geese plus 4 large young. 5 Grey Herons. 2 Raven over the dam wall. 4 Willow Warblers still singing at Millfields and Stones island.Simon Roddis
07/07/202136 Swifts flew S, most between 10:00 and 11:00, along with a few hirundines this morning. 40 Lapwing. 1 Common Sand on Watersports island. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. Red Kite over the west side. Total of 5 Spotted Flycatchers in Hall and Middle Woods. 2 juv Redstarts (WLC fields and Middle Wood). And the 2 Ruddy Shelducks still off Sheepwash carpark.Simon Roddis
05/07/2021A beautiful pair of adult Mediterranean Gulls were on Horseshoe island mid-morning, and a Red Kite overhead. 1 Common Sandpiper at Millfields. 27 adult Gadwall, plus a new brood of 9 in Brown Ale Bay (sixth brood at least this year), and 6 and 4 in WLC creek. 17 Mute Swans. The 2 Ruddy Shelduck in front of Sheepwash carpark late morning. Total of 16+ Tree Sparrows at WLC and Millfields. 1 Skylark S.Simon Roddis
04/07/2021Male Ruddy Shelduck below Hall Wood again this morning. 19 Mute Swans. 10 Oystercatcher. Spotted Flycatcher singing in Hall Wood; nestbox now empty, young presumably fledged. Family parties of Blackcap (4 young) on Hays Lane, Goldcrest at BABay and Bullfinch at Sheepwash. In other news, 2 albino Stoats with two regular ones at sailing club.Simon Roddis
02/07/20211 Ruddy Shelduck again among Greylags off Sheepwash. 16 Mute Swans. Barnacle geese still with 4 young at Millfields. 6 Teal at WLC. New brood of 9 Tufted at Hopton end, and probably a sixth brood of Gadwall (4 young) off Stones. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. 10+ Tree Sparrows at WLC.Simon Roddis
30/06/2021Swifts appear to have been on the move this morning: 330 flew N, most of them over Millfields between 10:00 and 10:45. The 2 Ruddy Shelducks still from Sheepwash. 819 Canada Geese. 304 Greylags. 12 Mute Swans. 91 Tufted. 145 Coot. 46 GCGrebe. 11 Oystercatcher. 30 Lapwing. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. 1 Hobby.Simon Roddis
27/06/2021Already a post breeding flock of 200 Jackdaws swirling above fields behind the Ranger Base. 140 young Black-headed Gulls visible around Millfields Island this morning. Others will still be hidden in nests in the deep vegetation there and some have left the island. 2 female type Ruddy Shelduck with mixed goose flock at Sheepwash again.Roger Carrington
25/06/202112 Goldfinch, 5 Pied Wagtail,4 Lapwing,3 Little Grebe, 4 Swift, 20 Sandmartin, 10 Greylag Goose,7 Mute Swan, 3 Sedge Warbler, 10 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Blackcap, 2 Bullfinch, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Grey Heron, 7 Oystercatcher, 3 Reed Bunting, 3 Great Tit,2 Cormorant, 1 lesser whitethroat, 2 Garden Warbler, 12 Long Tailed Tit,1 Redshank, 2 Teal, 11 Tree Sparrow, 2 Redstart+ 1 young,1 KestrelDavid Armitt
25/06/2021Little Egret and Curlew at sailing club early morning. 11 adult Mute Swans but haven't seen the cygnets for a few days, bit concerning. 4 Barnacles with 4 young still. The female Ruddy Shelduck with Canadas at Watersports. 3 Teal. New brood of 10 Gadwall off Stones. 10 Oystercatcher. 15 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged and 1st-summer Common Gulls. Family of Willow Tits at top of WLC creek. Fledged Swallows at Millfields draw-off tower. 1 Meadow Pipit over main centre. 3 Spotted Fly. 12 Tree Spoarrows (10 WLC, 2 Millfields).Simon Roddis
23/06/2021Roger C had 2 Ruddy Shelducks from Sheepwash this morning. 778 Canada Geese. 182 Greylags. 2 male Pochard. New broods of 6 Tufted Duck at WLC and 4 at Millfields island. 7 Oystercatcher. 1 Curlew W. 3 Common Sandpiper at sailing club/WLC. 5 redshank. 2 Yellow-legged Gull (adult and 2nd-summer). 3 Common Terns. Kingfisher again in WLC creek. New brood of 2 young Coots at Millfields island. 7 Raven. Pair of Spotted Flycatchers now feeding young in a nestbox. Redstarts still with fledged young in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
22/06/2021Frustrating highlight was a possible Black Kite seen distantly over the east side, first over the north end then probably again over Millfields. Tail didn't look as forked as Red Kite but too far away to be sure. Barnacle Geese still with 4 young at Millfields. 2 male Pochard (WLC and Millfields). c40 Swifts. Part of 7 Stock Doves. 7 Oystercatcher. 5 Redshank (all adults) at WLC. 2 Curlew W. Adult Yellow-leg and 1st-summer Caspian Gulls at sailing club. 3 Common Terns early morning. Male Peregrine from Stones. Total of 15 Raven (5,2,4 & 4). Redstart family in WLC creek, at least 3 juvs.Simon Roddis
21/06/2021Cetti’s Warbler still singing on north shore of Fishtail Creek. Ruddy Shelduck with flock of 180 Greylag Geese below Hall Wood this morning.Roger Carrington
19/06/2021Highlight this morning was confirming breeding by Pied Flycatcher for the first time at Carsington: a female with food in Hall Wood. Brood of 6 Gadwall at Watersports, several days old but I think the 4th brood of the year. 16 Lapwings at sailing club. Sedge Warblers with food on Stones and male Redstart with food in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
18/06/2021Forgot to mention a new brood of 8 Tufted at WLC and 2 new Mallard: 5-6 at Millfields island and 11-12 off Stones.Simon Roddis
18/06/2021The Cetti's Warbler still singing in Fishtail creek this morning. Pied Fly alarm-calling in Hall Wood. Spotted Flys in Hall and Middle Woods. 819 Canada. 251 Greylags. Male Teal and Pochard at WLC. 12 Swifts. 14 Lapwing. c350 Black-headed Gulls, plus young. Kingfisher again in WLC creek. Total of 8 GSWoodpeckers, including a family of 4 (2 juvs) at Millfields. 5 Raven, presumably a family party.Simon Roddis
16/06/20212 Great White Egrets flew S over the Hopton end at 06:10 this morning, not seen again. 8 Mute Swans, plus the 3 cygnets. Red Kite again over the east side. More breeding evidence: Willow Warblers feeding fledged young in WLC creek, Chiffchaff and Treecreeper with food in Hall Wood, Whitethroat with food at Hopton reedbed, juv Tree Sparrows in WLC creek, along with a juv Siskin.Simon Roddis
14/06/2021Red Kite over the east side, Common Tern early morning and a Kingfisher in WLC creek (my first here since 23rd January). The WLC Mute Swans are now down to 3 cygnets. Brood of 7 Gadwall at Paul Stanley, c.1 week old but I've not seen them before, and the 10 young Tufteds still. 1 Curlew flew SW. 2 imm Herring Gulls through. 4 Ravens at Millfields. 10 Sand Martins at Brown Ale Bay.Simon Roddis
13/06/2021Monthly WeBS count: 687 Canada, 4 Barnacle (plus 4 young), 188 Greylag, 6 Mute (plus 4 cygnets), 18 Gadwall, 57 Mallard, 67 Tufted (plus first brood of 10+), 7 Moorhen, 62 Coot, 8 LGrebe, 52 GCGrebe, 4 Oystercatcher, 3 Lapwing, 3 Redshank. Redstarts with food at Hopton end and in WLC fields. 8+ Reed Warblers, including 4 (2 singing) in Brown Ale Bay.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
11/06/2021A second brood of Gadwall, 5 ducklings, was in Brown Ale Bay on Friday morning, and a new brood of 8 Mallard at WLC. A Peregrine took a Jackdaw over WLC fields, much to the annoyance of lots of other corvids. Chiffchaff with food at top of WLC creek, and Sedge Warbler with food at WLC. Pair of Redstart in WLC fields and at least 1 at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
10/06/2021Pair Gadwall at Millfields with 7yg (noted yesterday by Simon Roddis with 9yg). Pair Mute Swan still with 4 cygnets on the water near the Visitor Centre toilet block and Reed Warbler singing there. Today I noted my 34th pair of birds taking food into nest boxes this breeding season. All these boxes with box numbers were observed from the main paths. Nearly all species were Blue or Great Tit and I found 2 boxes today that had been taken over by Tree Bumblebees. Please note and report any nest box activity you see.Roger Carrington
07/06/2021Geese numbers increasing: 377 Canada and 77 Greylag. Barnacles still with 4 young at Millfields and Mute Swans still with 5 at WLC. 11 Lapwing. Moorhens with 4 young at WLC. Fledged GSWoodpeckers at Sheepwash. Chiffchaff with food in Hall Wood, Redstarts and Garden Warbler with food at Hopton end. 22 Starlings over Sheepwash. 10 Tree Saprrow (8 in WLC creek, 2 at Millfields).Simon Roddis
06/06/2021Species noted by the Birdwatching for Beginners group between 10am and noon: Canada goose, Greylag goose, Mute swan, Gadwall, Mallard, Tufted duck, Little grebe, Great crested grebe, Grey heron, Cormorant, Moorhen, Coot, Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Redshank, Black-headed gull, Woodpigeon, Swift, Swallow, Sand Martin, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion crow, Blue tit, Great tit, Willow warbler, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Garden warbler, Sedge Warbler, Dunnock, Wren, Blackbird, Song thrush, House sparrow, Tree sparrow, Pied Wagtail, Bullfinch, Goldfinch and Reed buntingGary Atkins
04/06/2021The WLC/Horseshoe Island Mute Swans now have 5 cygnets. 2 male Teal at WLC. A 2nd-summmer Yellow-legged Gull on the raft off sailing club. Pair of Swifts again checking out the visitor centre. Juvenile Tree Sparrows at both Millfields (1) and WLC (2). And 2 Broad-bodied Chaser dragonflies at Hopton reedbed.Simon Roddis
31/05/20211 Reed Bunting, 3 Mute Swan, 21 Greylag Goose,16 Great Crested Grebe,1 Oystercatcher, 4 Grey Heron, 1 Cormorant, 1 Moorhen, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, 1 Jay,2 Reed Warbler, 2 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Male pochard of big island, Mute Swan with 4 young in Brown Ale BayDavid Armitt
30/05/20213 Wren, 5 oystercatcher, 1 Dunnock, 2 Gadwall, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Sedge Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Reed Bunting, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 3 Swift, 12 House Martin, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Redstart, 12 Long-tailed TitDavid Armitt
01/06/2021The Hopton Mute Swans have hatched - 7 cygnets on Saturday according to the STW rangers though I only saw 3 this morning. Barnacle Geese still with 4 young at Millfields. 349 Canadas and 39 greylags. 3 Swifts checking out the visitor centre. GSWoodpecker nest with noisy young. Fledged Willow Tits at Hopton end. The Cetti's Warbler still singing in Fishtail creek. Total of 9 Reed Warblers (7 singing). Spotted Flycatcher in Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
29/05/2021A pair of Shoveler at the WLC this morning were slightly unexpected; 1 Common Tern; 10 Oystercatcher including 4 full grown young - 2 will have come from Horseshoe island but not sure about the other 2; Lesser White and Redstart in WLC creek, plus Common Whitethroat with food. And an obliging Tawny owl sat out for photos.Simon Roddis
28/05/2021A total of 11+ Reed Warblers this morning, 9 of them singing. The male Pied Fly still in Hall Wood, and Spotted Fly there and at Penn Carr. 1 Curlew over Millfields.Simon Roddis
27/05/20217 Common Scoter (5 imm male, 2 female) off Stones island this morning, and 2 summer plumage Black-tailed Godwits on Horseshoe island. Pair of Barnacle Geese with 4 small goslings at Millfields. Red Kite over Carsington Pastures. Male Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
26/05/20212 adult Arctic Terns from Stones island from 09:45 for the next hour at least. A Green Woodpecker was calling behind sailing club early morning. 13 LBbG and 2 Herring Gull through. Fledged Willow Tits, Robin and Wrens. Black-headed Gull chicks starting to hatch on Millfields island.Simon Roddis
20/05/2021The Turnstone was still on sailing club shore this morning. Tawny Owl calling late morning at Millfields. c20 Swifts and 50 Sand Martins. Reed Warbler singing on Sailing Club island. Redstart singing at Penn Carr. Willow Tit with food near WLC.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
17/05/20211 Little Ringed Plover,20 Sandmartin, 11 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Little Grebe, 1 Pied Wagtail, 5 Chiffchaff, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 1 Redshank, 2 Oystercatcher , 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Reed Bunting, 1 Great Spotted WoodpeckerDavid Armitt
19/05/2021We did the (early) WeBS count this morning: 133 Canada Geese, 2 Barnacles, 40 Greylags, 4 Mute Swans, 1 female Shelduck at WLC, 14 Gadwall, 47 Mallard, 79 Tufted, 2 Moorhen, 56 Coot, 13 Little Grebe, 44 GCGrebe, 8 Oystercatcher, a summer plumage Turnstone at sailing club, 1 Redshank, 12 Cormorant, 7 Herons. On top of that, single Red Kite and Hobby, 6 Jays including a family party of 4, 6 singing Reed Warblers: 3 Hopton reedbed, singles in BABay, WLC creek and PSHide (first time I've said that for over a year!), 4 (maybe 5) singing Spotted Flycatcher between Hopton and Middle Wood and the 2 singing Pied Flys again in Hall and Middle Woods, and 3+ Lesser Redpoll at PSHide.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
18/05/20213 Arctic (late morning) and 3 Common Terns (early morning) from the dam wall/Stones island. 2 male Pied Fly, in Middle and Hall Woods. Male Redstart at Hopton end. Cetti's Warbler still singing in Fishtail Creek. 10 Buzzards in the air. Breeding confirmed for Chiffchaff, Nuthatch, Willow, Blue and Long-tailed Tits.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
17/05/20213 Whimbrel on sailing club shore this morning, along with the one-footed adult GBbGull. c80 Sand Martin, 30 House and 20 Swallows feeding around Stones island. Reed Warbler singing in WLC creek and Redstart singing near sailing club. Fledged grey Wagtail at Millfields and Tree Sparrows taking food to a box near WLC.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
14/05/2021Pied Flycatcher still singing in Hall Wood this morning, along with 2 Spotted Fly (and another at Hopton). 1 Sedge and 3 Reed Warbler singing in Hopton reedbed, and the Cetti's still at Fishtail Creek. c20 Swifts and 50 House Martins over Stones island. Redstarts singing in Middle Wood and at Hopton end. 1 Yellow Wag over Stones causeway. 6 Ravens (family party?) perched above Penn Carr. 1 Red Kite down the east side.Simon Roddis
13/05/2021It looks as if the GNDiver has gone - no sign this morning though I gather it was still there mid-afternoon yesterday. 2 Shelduck flew in early morning. 1 Hobby. 2-3 Moorhen chicks on Stones island and 2 GCGrebe chicks at the WLC. A Reed Warbler singing on Stones causeway near the visitor centre. Total of 7 singing Garden Warblers at Millfields and on Stones island. House Sparrow fledglings at the main carpark.Simon Roddis
12/05/2021The GNDiver had a good fly around this morning but did settle back on the water. 1 Common Tern off Stones. Male Wheatear still on the dam wall. Red Kite down the west side. Tawny Owl at Millfields.SJR, AHS, JB
11/05/2021A brief watch this evening from 4:45-5:45pm. Managed to catch up with the Great Northern Diver in full Summer plumage. An ample supporting cast in a single Little Gull briefly at 5:30pm before floating SW, Yellow Wagtail over Stones and a Lesser Whitethroat on the causeway.Sam Goddard
11/05/2021Undoubted highlight this morning was a Spoonbill which flew in just after 10:00, stayed for a while on Horseshoe island before departing high to the west just after 10:30. Earlier, the GNDiver called in the early morning mist and was then off Stones during the morning. 2 Dunlin. 2 Yellow Wags. 10 Lesser Redpoll at Millfields.Simon Roddis

Scroll to Top