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
01/12/2021A decent morning, nothing exceptional but plenty of birds. Highlights were single Shelduck (found by Sam G), Pintail, Ruff, Redshank, Woodcock (flying around WLC creek), Little Egret, Peregrine, 2-3 Red Kites, total of c600 Redwing, 7 Tree Sparrows at WLC. 73 species, a pretty good start to the month!Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
26/11/2021Nothing mega this morning but a Chiffchaff on Stones island was my first of the month. Single Ruff, Redshank, Little Egret, Peregrine, Red Kite. 2 Pink-footed Geese among the Canadas. Totals of 5 GSWoodpecker and 38 Long-tailed Tit in 3 flocks at the north end.Simon Roddis
22/11/2021A little bit of vismig this morning: 148 Fieldfares NW and 384 Starlings W. 3 Shelduck flew in mid-morning. 274 Canada Geese. 3 Goldeneye (2m,1f). 1m Goosander. c450 Lapwing. A male Ruff along Stones causeway and at the WLC (maybe here for the winter?) and the Redshank still. 1 Peregrine upsetting the Lapwings. 10 Tree Sparrow (8 at WLC, 2 Millfields).Simon Roddis
21/11/20212 Woodcock came into Hopton end early morning, by the light of the Woodcock Moon, and 4 calling Tawny Owls there, including 3 within about 30 yards of each other. c180 Teal and the drake Pintail still. 2f Goldeneye. 611 Lapwings. The probable subadult Caspian Gull on Sheepwash spit again.Simon Roddis
19/11/20211m Goosander at Millfields early morning. 867 Woodpigeons N and 45 S, plus 8 Stock Doves N in one hour, 08:00-09:00. 600+ Lapwing, definite increase. 1 Redshank still. c10,000 Black-headed Gulls at first light. 2 Kingfishers. Willow Tit singing at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
18/11/202165 Pink-feet E at 10:00. 170 Canada Geese. 31 Mute Swans. 4 Goldeneye (2m,2f). 69 GCGrebe. c300 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. 1 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing. 29 Stock Doves (23 N, 6 S) and 457 Woodpigeons N. 117 Starlings W and 39 Fieldfare SW.Simon Roddis
17/11/2021A Great Northern Diver flew south high down the res at 08:50, had a bit of a look but appeared to go straight through. 226 Canada Geese, with single Barnacle and Pink-foot among them. Drake Pintail. 178 Teal. 8 Goosander (1m,7 redheads) at Millfields early morning. 4 Goldeneye (2m,2f). 219 Woodpigeons (189 N, 30 S) and 12 Stock Doves (5 N, 7 S) through. 300 Lapwing. 2 Dunlin at WLC. 1 Redshank still. 10 Herring Gulls flew in late morning. Adult Yellow-leg still. 4 Skylarks N. Total of c200 Redwing. 16 Lesser Redpolls on Stones island.Simon Roddis
16/11/2021Very foggy this morning! 1 Woodcock, 4+ Tawny Owls and a Brambling at Hopton end first thing. Little Egret at WLC. c300 Starlings at Watersports, feeding on the shore, very unusual there. 9 Tree Sparrows (5 WLC, 4 Millfields).Simon Roddis
15/11/2021Probably conservative estimates of c10,000 Black-heads, 5,000 Lesser Black-backs and 500 Common Gulls in the roost late afternoon, watching from Stones so some birds between there and the dam wall will have been out of sight. Also 4 Herring, 1 GBbG, 1 Yellow-leg and a probable subadult Caspian. 28 Mute Swan. 46 Gadwall. 300 Lapwing. 1 Dunlin. 500+ Starlings over Stones late pm, presumably heading to a roost.Simon Roddis
14/11/20212 adult Whooper Swans were at Millfields early morning, presumably having roosted overnight, but didn't stay long. 3f Goldeneye. An unknown number of Pink-footed Geese flew over Sheepwash carpark late morning - heard but not seen as they were in the cloud! 250 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at Sheepwash. Kingfisher at Millfields.Simon Roddis
13/11/1021The first Woodcock of the autumn/winter flew into the Hopton end early morning, 4 Tawny Owls calling there and a Water Rail called in the reedbed. 9 adult Whooper Swans Flew NE at 09:10. 2f Goldeneye off the dam wall. 455 Woodpigeons N and 117 S. 250 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. 3 Red Kites. 8 Skylarks over. 150 Starlings W. Total of 250 Redwing. 2 Brambling over Hopton end and 13 Lesser Redpoll on Stones island.Simon Roddis
12/11/2021c100 Teal. 1f Pintail. 45 Pochard. 3f Goldeneye. 100 Woodpigeons N. 255 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. 32 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret at the WLC. 3 Red Kites over the pastures. 100 Siskin, including a flock of c90 at Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
07/11/2021Species noted collectively by the 'Birdwatching for Beginners' group (Sunday, 7th November 10am-noon): Black-headed Gull, Mute Swan, Coot, Tufted Duck, Mallard, Moorhen, Blackbird, Grey Heron, Carrion Crow, Cormorant, Gt Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Gadwall, Canada Goose, Pied Wagtail, Wigeon, Robin, Lapwing, Teal, House Sparrow, Sparrowhawk, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Redshank, Woodpigeon, Goldfinch, Snipe, Pochard, Willow Tit, Tree Sparrow, Jackdaw and RedwingGary Atkins
08/11/2021The pale bellied brent Goose that SJR found was still present from stones island and then wildlife centre around midday and had a ring on it's right leg a black ring with a white number 6 on it.Chris brown
07/11/2021Monthly WeBS count: 80 Canada Geese, 24 Mute Swan, 60 Gadwall, 118 Wigeon, 174 mallard, 1 Pintail, 128 Teal, 84 Pochard, 207 Tufted, 4 Goldeneye, 34 Moorhen, 1395 Coot, 42 Little Grebe, 44 GCGrebe, 198 Mallard, 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Redshank, 37 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
05/11/2021A great day, the highlight being a juvenile Gannet off Watersports for 5 minutes just before 11:00. It flew around a bit, dived twice, terrified the Tufted Ducks when it landed near them, and then disappeared. 4 Hawfinches flew SW at the Hopton end at 09:53, and a juvenile Marsh Harrier flew W across the reservoir at 12:30. Vismig totals 07:00-14:00: 6153 Fieldfare and 2218 Redwing SW, 4 Blackbirds S, 2769 Starling W, 1938 Woodpigeons S (plus 86 N), 5 Stock Doves S and 10 N, 1 Brambling SW. At least 6 Dunlin, including a flock of 5 W. 97 Canada Geese. 51 Pochard. 2 Goldeneye (imm male and a female) off Lane End. 420 Common Gulls at Sheepwash late pm. 4 Herring Gulls. 4 Red Kites. 7 Buzzard. 54 Rooks.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
04/11/2021Vismig from Hopton end 07:00-10:00: 4,525 Redwing and 3,005 Fieldfare SW, 1,119 Starlings W and 3,524 Woodpigeons S. 75 Pink-footed Geese E (and I'm told another 150). 6 unid'd grey geese S, pretty sure they weren't either Pink-feet or Greylag. Mistle Thrush singing at Hopton end and 6 Grey Wagtails there. Total of 50+ Siskin.Simon Roddis
02/11/2021Decent Woodpigeon movement once low mist had cleared from the east side: 11,070 flew S (all but 300 from 07:00-09:45). 5 Stock Doves. 724 Starlings W. 2nd-winter Caspian Gull again at Sheepwash early pm, plus the adult Yellow-leg. Single redhead Goldeneye at Sheepwash and Goosander at Millfields. 275 Lapwing. 1 Redshank at Sheepwash. 3 Sparrowhawk. 1 Red Kite. 14 Skylarks in random directions. 1 (maybe 2) Brambling S over Stones. Total of c40 Siskin.Simon Roddis
01/11/20214 Red Kites over the east side. 3 Shoveler (1m,2f) off Stones. 1 Redshank from Stones causeway. 210 Woodpigeons S and 110 Starlings W. 5 Lesser Redpoll on Stones. 55 Siskin, including a flock of 50 over WLC creek.Simon Roddis
31/10/2021Afternoon visit after this morning's rain. 4 female-type Scaup and an immature drake Goldeneye off Sheepwash. 51 Gadwall. 312 Wigeon. 133 Teal. 51 Pochard. 40 GCGrebe. 175 Lapwing. 43 Cormorant. 1 Red Kite over Hall Wood. c30 Long-tailed Tits in 3 flocks. 20 Siskin.Simon Roddis
27/10/2021Very light movement this morning, just 300 Woodpigeons, 8 Stock Doves and 210 Starlings. 45 Pied wagtails out of their roost on Watersports island early morning, and c.1,200 Jackdaws again. Juv Ringed Plover on Watersports island (same bird as at Sheepwash a couple of days ago) and a Curlew early morning. 400 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged and Herring Gulls on Sheepwash spit.Simon Roddis
26/10/2021Quite morning today,mist made observation difficult. Stones Island, 1 Little Egret, Willow Tit, mixed flock of thrushes feeding in the Hawthorn, Blackbirds, Song thrushes and Redwing. WLC creek, 15 Redwings, 2 Mistle Thrushes, 2 Sparrowhawks, 1 Kestrel,1 Shoveller,1 Redshank plus small groups of Wood pigeons passing through.A H Stewardson
25/10/2021Best this morning was a Rock Pipit S over Stones island at 09:00. Vismig somewhat frustrated by low cloud but 1,280 Starlings flew W. 1 Fieldfare S. 17 Skylarks (14N,3S). 2 female Pintail. Juv Ringed Plover at Sheepwash. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls there too. At least 25 Meadow Pipits around Stones island.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
24/10/20212 adult Whooper Swans flew in at 08:00 and 2 Great Egrets 10 minutes later, but neither stayed for long. 6 Red Kites in the air at the same time over the east side is (as far as I know) a new record for Carsi. A flock of 26 Dunlin flew S through Millfields at 10:40 and my first 2 Fieldfares of the autumn were among a flock of Redwings. Totals of 510 Woodpigeons, 332 Redwing and 76 Starling through. 11 Snipe at WLC and 70 Goldfinch nearby. 1,200 Jackdaws over the main centre after leaving their roost early on.Simon Roddis
24/10/202144 Wigeon,9 Gadwall, 20 Teal, 9 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Great White Egret, 40 Teal,120 lapwing,4 Pochard, 3 Red kite, 18 Cormorant,4 Little Grebe, 4 Snipe WLC ,5 Moorhen, 3 Tree Sparrow.David Armitt
22/10/20212 Jack Snipes at Hopton reedbed first thing. Very little movement compared to yesterday, just 220 Woodpigeons, perhaps because of the poorer weather. 1 Pintail. 2 Kingfishers (Hopton end and perhaps the same at PS hide, and sailing club). 1 Chiffchaff on Stones.Simon Roddis
21/10/20213 adult Whooper Swans flew in at 09:10 and remained off Stones island until 09:45 at least. 8,990 Woodpigeons flew S, mostly down the east side, in 3 hours from 07:30-10:30. 50 Pink-feet SE at 08:55. 29 Mute Swan. 2 redhead Goosander at Sheepwash. 190 Lapwing. 51 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. c1,000 jackdaws over the main centre early morning. 2 Chiffchaff. c50 Starling and 100 Redwing but no real movement.Simon Roddis
19/10/2021Jack Snipe again at Hopton reedbed, along with a Common Snipe. Total of c75 Siskin, including a flock of c70 over the WLC, and a Brambling with Chaffinches over the main carpark. 2 Pintail off Stones island. 1 Little Egret. The adult Yellow-legged Gull still. Kingfisher at Millfields.Simon Roddis
18/10/2021A Jack Snipe in Hopton reedbed early morning is my first of the year here. Fog inhibited viewing so no movement seen. The adult yellow-legged Gull still present. 110 Lapwing. Definite influx of Blackbirds and Song Thrushes, several of each feeding on hawthorn berries on Stones island. 4 Chiffchaffs.Simon Roddis
14/10/20211 Great Spotted woodpecker ,4 Chaffinch,1 Coal Tit,4 Tree sparrow,1 Nuthatch,1 Willow Tit,1 Snow Bunting,4 Pied Wagtail,6 Little Grebe,12 Great Crested Grebe,10 Cormorant,2 Grey Heron,15 Mute Swan, 108 Wigeon ,3 Pochard, 16 Teal,23 Lapwing,1 Kestrel,3 Moorhen, 1 Little Egret, 2 Meadow Pipit, 17 Goldfinch, 1 Grey Wagtail, 6 Long tailed Tit,2 GadwallDavid Armitt
14/10/2021The Snow Bunting was again in Millfields viewing area early morning. Vismig from Stones 07:30-10:00: 2,100 Redwing W-ish, 230 Starling W, 262 Woodpigeon, 6 Stock Dove, 6 Lesser Redpoll and 12 Siskin S. Total of 34 Skylarks N. 4 Pintail. 2 Shoveler at Sheepwash. 125 Lapwing. 1 Dunlin. Adult GBb and Y-l Gulls again. 2 Little Egret. 3 Sparrowhawk. 4 GSWoodpecker. c1,000 Jackdaw over the dam wall at first light.Simon Roddis
13/10/2021A nice autumn morning's birding. The first Redwings flew through, 840 between 07:00 and midday, heading between NW and SW, along with 37 Starling, 44 Siskin S (including a flock of 30 over WLC creek), 21 Skylark heading towards Carsington pastures, 8 Pink-feet NE. Female-type Scaup (nice find by Mike Redfern) and Common Scoter off Stones island. 100 Lapwing. 10 Snipe on Horseshoe island (MR). 2 Little Egret. 6 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing. 7+ Ravens. And others saw the Snow Bunting, again in Millfields viewing area.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
12/10/2021The Snow Bunting was in Millfields viewing area late morning and was very confiding once it was found! Much less movement than yesterday, just 490 Woodpigeons S (and 7 Stock Doves) in 1 hour. 3 Pintail off Stones. 1 Little Egret. Up to 11 Ravens over Millfields/Blackwall for much of the morning. A female House Sparrow in WLC creek was, I think, the furthest from the visitor centre I've ever seen one (310 metres).Simon Roddis
11/10/2021The Snow Bunting is still on the dam wall, towards the Millfields end. c9,000 Lesser Black-backs and 6,000 Black-headed Gulls still roosting at first light. A bit of movement this morning: 3520 Woodpigeons S, 220 Pink-feet (140 SW, 80 E), 85 Starlings S, 28 Skylark including a flock of 22 N past Stones island. 2 redhead Goosander off the dam wall early morning. c150 Lapwing. 1 Little Egret. 3 Red Kites. 6 Jays. 1 Brambling over the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
09/10/2021Snow bunting still midway along dam wall till dusk also 2 curlew over north west at c6pm.Chris brown
10/10/2021Monthly WeBS count: we don't get Spoonbill every month! Yesterday's juvenile was at Sheepwash early morning but may have flown as not seen again to 11:00 at least. Only 73 Canada Geese and 3 Greylags. 22 Mute Swan. 4 Shoveler. 52 Gadwall. 205 Wigeon. 127 Mallard. 1 Pintail. 124 Teal. 99 Pochard. 207 Tufted. 26 Moorhen. 1223 Coot. 31 Little Grebe. 49 GCGCrebe. 118 Lapwing. 1 Snipe. 43 Cormorant. 1 Little Egret. 7 Grey Heron. 2 Kingfishers. Away from the water, the Snow Bunting and Wheatear were still on the dam wall, 21 Pink-feet flew E at 09:05, 32 Woodpigeons S (taste of things to come?), 3 Red Kite, 10 Buzzard, total of 24 Siskin, and 1 Brambling over Middle Wood.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
03/10/2021Species seen during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon): House Sparrow, Coot, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Tufted Duck, Teal, Mute Swan, Gadwall, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Grey Wagtail, Cormorant, Wren, Chiffchaff, Buzzard, Goldfinch, Carrion Crow, Robin, Wigeon, Pochard, Little Egret, Tree Sparrow Great tit Jackdaw Pied wagtail Moorhen.Gary Atkins
03/10/2021Surprisingly few geese this morning, not sure why. Still 4 Pintail off Stones and 2 Shoveler at the WLC. 90 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged Gull still. 41 Cormorant. Kingfisher at Hopton end. 5 Jays. 12 Swallows over Hall Wood. 11 Chiffchaffs (9 between Sheepwash and Stones). 2 Blackcap. 43 Meadow Pipits S. 60 Goldfinch. 16 Siskin.Simon Roddis
29/09/2021A bit of southbound movement this morning, the highlight being a female Merlin over Stones island at 08:45. 420 Meadow Pipits, mostly between 09:00 and 11:00, 6 Skylarks (+1N), 9 Swallows, 1 Grey Wag, 9 Greenfinch (including a flock of 7), 2 Siskin, 2 Linnet, 2 Stock Dove. A Great Egret was near Big Island at 08:15. 1,850 Canada and 42 Barnacle Geese flew out early morning, and 615 Greylags flew back in. 7 Pintail off Stones.Simon Roddis
26/09/2021Flock of 46 Barnacle geese, accompanied by 4 Nene type geese in field near WLC creek.Gary Atkins
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

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