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
2017-03-15Highlights from circular walk (0815-1230): Ruff in Brown Ale Bay, 6 Goldeneye (4m,2f) off Big Island, Jack Snipe flushed from Hopton reedbed, Sparrowhawk in Hall Wood, Buzzard on ground in field just behind Hall Wood, Gt Northern Diver off Stones, Cetti's Warbler on Stones (51 species in all). Also 2 Comma and 2 Brimstone butterflies.Gary Atkins
2017-03-15The GNDiver still, from Stones. 3 Wigeon. 2 Shoveler. 5 Greylags. 3 Grey Heron. The Ruff still, at Sheepwash. 8+ Redshank. 3 Jack Snipe and 2 Woodcock at Hopton reedbed early morning. 13 Feral Pigeons in Tail Bay. Green Woodpecker calling in Tail Bay early morning. Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones. 150 Starlings through. Only 2 Grey Wags out of Hopton reedbed early morning. 3 Linnets.SJR, AHS, CA
2017-03-14This morning, the GNDiver still, 25 Barnacle Geese, 3 Greylags including one with an orange neck collar, 1 Ringed Plover on Watersports island, 1 Dunlin, Tawny Owl calling down the Tail Bay track, 1 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin through, Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones, 15 Chiffchaff between Sheepwash and Tail Bay, 7 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall, 27 Tree Sparrows.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2017-03-13Afternoon visit great northern diver.5 little grebe.grey heron.18 cormorants.5 mute swan.148 canada geese.7 greylag geese.25 barnacle geese.23 teal.21 wigeon.12 goldeneye.2 common scoter 1 male.ruff and dunlin(at sheepwash).9 lapwing.4 redshank.12 oystercatchersChris brown/dave newcombe
2017-03-13This morning, the GNDiver still, pair of Common Scoter, pair of Goosander, 3 Wigeon, 7 Greylags, 1 Ringed Plover, the Ruff still, 1 Dunlin, ad GBbG, Kingfisher at Millfields, Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones, 12 Chiffchaff, 10 Bullfinch (8 at Millfields).SJR, AHS, RC
2017-03-12This morning, the GNDiver still, 2 Shelduck, 3 Mandarin, 7 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 3 Pochard, the Ruff still, 2 Dunlin, 2 JackSnipe at Hopton reedbed early morning, ad GBbG, 2 Herring Gull, Cettis' Warbler on Stones island still, 18 Chiffchaff, 250 Starling E.SJR, CA, AHS
2017-03-11March WeBS count - Great Northern Diver 1, Little Grebe 7, Great Crested Grebe 56, Cormorant 25, Grey Heron 2, Mute Swan 8, Greylag Goose 5, Canada Goose 110, Barnacle Goose 21, Shelduck 1, Teal 50, Mallard 71, Pintail 2, Pochard 1, Tufted Duck 63, Goldeneye 13, Goosander 2, Moorhen 7, Coot 242, Oystercatcher 19, Lapwing 5, Dunlin 1, Ruff 1, Snipe 35, Curlew 34, Redshank 8, Kingfisher 1. Plus Sand Martin thru N over Stones 0850hrs, Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones, 2+Chiffchaff and 10 Common Buzzards over Blackwall Plantation.JB, SJR, AHS
2017-03-10The main event this morning was a party of 7 AVOCETS, on Stones from 0725 to 0850 and then moving up to Sheepwash. They flew around a couple of times as if they wanted to leave but were put off by the murky weather. Still at Sheepwash to 1120 at least. Also: the GNDiver still, 1 Pink-footed Goose, 3 Greylags, 23 Barnacle Geese, 4 Wigeon, 6 Goldeneye, 22 Curlew, the Ruff, 78 Common Snipe at WLC, ad GBbG, female Kingfisher at Millfields, 1 Skylark, Cetti's Warbler on Stones, 2 Chiffchaff (Stones and Sheepwash), 120 Redwing, 2 Linnet, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 5 Siskin, 15 Goldfinch.SJR, CA, RC
2017-03-09This afternoon, the GNDiver off Millfields, 21 Barnacle Geese at WLC, 2 Shelduck on Stones, 20 Cormorant, 1 ad Yellow-legged Gull, ad GBbG, 5 Curlew, 5 Redshank, 15 Common Snipe, Cetti's Warbler on Stones. Late pm at Hopton reedbed, Water Rail calling, 1 Woodcock, 1 Peregrine, 150 Starlings N.Simon Roddis
2017-03-07Very much the usual suspects this morning: GNDiver, Cetti's Warbler, 5 Curlew, ad GBbG etc. The main event was some extreme aggro between Mute Swans at PS hide, which started rather oddly when 2 birds flew in from the east and one of them hit a tree and crash-landed on the shore of the res. When it regained its composure it swam across towards PSH after the other bird of the two. A pair of swans were already at PSH and they took exception to the new arrivals: one of them repeatedly chased one of the new birds away (a female based on the slimness of its neck). I assume that the chasing bird was also a female but it did seem to have a rather stout neck so I'm not certain about that. The other birds, both males based on their thick necks and large knobs at the base of the bill, had a real set-to, a full-on fight, grabbing each other's wings with their bills amid lots of wing-flapping and splashing. One of them, I assume the male that had already been present, got the upper hand and repeatedly grabbed the other one's head and neck with its bill. They came out of the water and for some minutes the 'winning' bird actually stood on top of the other bird, holding its neck with its bill all the while. The 'losing'' bird broke free and ran towards the hide, the other one hot on its tail until they reached the bank behind the feeder to the right of the hide, when it again grabbed the losing bird's neck and held it down. This carried on for a while longer until I managed to catch their attention and they separated, the losing bird managing to escape over the water and the winner washing and preening itself after its exertions. I don't know how long this might have gone on had they not separated, but I suspect that the losing bird would have come out even worse than it did. I was surprised that the second bird of the initial pair didn't return, at least while I was there, so it will be interesting to see if there are any further developments there.Simon Roddis
2017-03-06GNDiver still this morning. 1 Shelduck at Sailing Club. 6 Wigeon at Sheepwash. 30 Curlew. The Ruff still. 3 Redshank. 1 Dunlin. 5 GBbG (2 ads inc the long-staying bird, and 3 imms). Minimum of 6 Ravens (or as many as 14 if all sightings were different birds). The Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones. 24 Tree Sparrows between Stones and Sheepwash (second highest recent count).SJR, RC, AHS
2017-03-060900-0935 Hopton End-Paul Stanley Hide: Singing male Reed Bunting in reed bed; Oystercatcher pair on Big Island, 5 Goldeneye (4 male, 1 female), 30 Common Gulls on north side of spit 1115-1200 WLC: 30+ Common Snipe on shore of Horseshoe Island (though quite mobile, so probably more), 2 Willow Tits and Reed Bunting on feedersGary Atkins
2017-03-05Before the rain started the GNDiver was off Stones island and the Ruff, 33 Curlew and Cetti's Warbler were on Stones. 2 Pochard at WLC. 5 Goosander including a pair in Shiningford Creek and later at Sheepwash. 2 Redshank. 2 Herring Gull.Simon Roddis
2017-03-040600-1200: GNDiver still. 8 Barnacle Geese. 7 Wigeon including a pair displaying. 1 Pochard. 4 Goldeneye. Pair Goosander in Brownale Bay. 7 Common Buzzard. Single Jack Snipe, Woodcock and Water Rail at Hopton reedbed first thing. 41 Curlew. The Ruff still at WLC. 1 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. Ad GBbG. 4 Herring Gull. 3 Stock Dove. 2 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton first thing. 1 Kingfisher at Millfields. 22 Carrion Crows at Millfields and 14 at WLC creek. 1 Raven. 8 Skylark going in random directions. Cetti's Warbler and Redwing singing on Stones. 180 Starling. 5 Mistle Thrush. 5 Meadow Pipit. 11 Grey Wags out of Hopton reedbed early morning. 2 Linnet. 3 Lesser Redpoll. 7 Siskin. 8 singing Reed Buntings. (77 species.)Simon Roddis
2017-03-02The GNDiver was between Sheepwash and Lane End this morning. Peak count of 51 Curlews, with a lot of coming and going between the shore around Lane End and the fields. Only 7 Lapwings! Ad GBbG. Cetti's and 4 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
2017-03-01This morning: the GNDiver between Stones and Lane End. A 2nd winter Kittiwake was off the dam wall at 08:15 then later at the WLC at 11:00. 20 Cormorant. 7 pairs of Oystercatcher. The Ruff still. 2 Redshank. 1 Dunlin. 13 Curlew. Ad GBbG. 4 Stock Dove. Female Kingfisher at Penn Carr (Millfields). 10 Rooks at small rookery at Hognaston (as seen from the dam wall). Willow Tits singing at Millfields and WLC creek. Reed Buntings singing on Stones, WLC creek, Tail Bay and Millfields island.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2017-02-28This morning, the GNDiver between Stones and Millfields. 2 Wigeon. 2 Goosander. 8 Buzzards in the air from Stones. The Ruff still. 38 Curlew at Lane End. 1 Dunlin. 2 ad GBbG over. 1 Herring Gull. 1 Peregrine. 3 Skylark over. Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones. 21 Tree Sparrows between Sheepwash and Stones Island. 1 Linnet N over WLC creek. 3 Reed Buntings singing (WLC and 2 on Stones).SJR, AHS, RC
2017-02-270820-1045: the GNDiver still, off Lane End. Ruff still around Stones. 30+ Common Snipe at the WLC. A singing Grey Wag at Sheepwash appeared to be a female by its plumage.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2017-02-26The GNDiver was off Stones this morning. 6 Wigeon. 1 Pochard. 1 Peregrine. 15 Curlew. The Ruff still. 1 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. 5 Skylark and 30 Starling W. 90 Redwing (5 on Stones, 85 WLC Creek). 9 Willow Tits between the WLC and Millfields (via Tail Bay): 3 pairs and 3 singles, including 2 singing.Simon Roddis
2017-02-25GNDiver at Millfields. First thing at Hopton reedbed, 3 Jack Snipe, 4 Woodcock, 11 Grey Wagtails out of their roost, 1 Tawny Owl calling. 29 Curlew from Sheepwash. Cetti's Warbler singing on Stones.Simon Roddis
2017-02-2508:00-10:00 between Visitor Centre and Sheepwash.2 Kestrel, 2 Oystercatchers' 6-8 Curlew, Treecreeper, Willow Tit and 2 NuthatchesEric Dewhurst
2017-02-24The GNDiver was off Stones this morning. 4 Wigeon. 4 Gadwall. 6 Buzzard. 1 Ringed Plover. 19 Curlew. Pair of Oycs mating on Horseshoe island. 2 Dunlin. The Ruff still. 2 Redshank. Ad GBbG still. 7 Stock Dove. 20 Starling and 18 Redwing N.SJR, AHS, RC
2017-02-23The GNDiver was off Millfields 08:20. Ruff at Sailing Club. 2 Shelduck flew up the res at 10:40, seemed to land in Brownale Bay. Not many birds singing this morning for some reason!Simon Roddis
2017-02-21This mornings Tree Sparrow count was 23.A H STEWARDSON
2017-02-210830-1230, west side from Hopton end to Stones island: GNDiver, 5 Buzzard, 7 Curlew, 3 Redshank, 2 GBbG, 2 Raven, 7 Goldcrest (3 singing), 51 Blue Tits, 19 Great Tits, 10 Coal Tits, 4 Willow Tits (3 singing), 13 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Nuthatch, 4 Treecreeper, 35 Wren (28 singing), 100 Starling W, 28 Blackbirds (only 1 singing), 18 Song Thrush (15 singing), 88 Robin (62 singing), 27 Dunnock (20 singing), 8 singing Chaffinches, 18 Bullfinch, 5 Reed Bunting (3 singing).Simon Roddis
2017-02-20Adult GNDiver still present. 26 Barnacle Geese. 2 Greylags. 1 Shelduck. 10 Goldeneye. 9 Goosander. 1 Peregrine. 9 Oystercatcher. 1 Ruff still. 1 Ringed Plover N. 4 Dunlin. 1 Curlew. 7 GBbG first thing, presumably roosted. 4 Herring Gull. 60 Woodpigeons at Millfields. 7 Raven over Millfields. Total of c.200 Starling N. 70 Redwing (20 Millfields, 50 Sheepwash). Total of 20 singing SongThrushes at Millfields (14), Stones area (4) and Sheepwash (2).SJR, AHS, CA
2017-02-19This morning from Stones Island, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Ruff, 4 Dunlin, 3 Oystercatchers, 70 Common Snipe, 3 Skylarks flying north and 1 Cetti's Warbler.A H STEWARDSON
2017-02-160650-1210: adult GNDiver still present. At Hopton first thing, 1 Water Rail, 1 Jack Snipe and 13 Grey Wags out of their roost. 10 Stock Doves over. 20 Barnacle Geese. 18 Wigeon. 5 Pochard. 12 Goldeneye. 8 Goosander. 1 Grey Heron. 2 Sparrowhawk. 6 Buzzard. 5+ Oystercatcher. 2 Golden Plover. 2 Redshank. 3 Curlew. 4+ Dunlin. 73 Common Snipe at WLC. 3 Herring Gull. 1 ad GBbG. 7 Feral Pigeon (Tail Bay). Female Kingfisher in Brownale Bay. 4 Raven at Millfields. 6 Skylark over. Willow Tit singing at Millfields. 2 Linnet S over Stones. 1 Reed Bunting singing at WLC. (75 species) SJR, AHS, RC
2017-02-140830-1200: the GNDiver was easier to see today in much more benign conditions. 980 Lapwing in total. 2 Dunlin. Water Rail calling in Hopton reedbed. 4 Great Spots including 2 drumming. Reed Bunting singing on Stones. Peregrine over Sheepwash. Adult GBbG. 3 Mistle Thrushes (1 Hopton, 2 Sheepwash).Simon Roddis
2017-02-13February WeBs count- Mute Swan 8, Canada Goose 50, Wigeon 2, Gadwall 11, Teal 133, Mallard 97, Pochard 8, Tufted Duck 84, Goldeneye 9, Goosander 2, Great Northern Diver 1, Little Grebe 13, Great Crested Grebe 39, Grey Heron 1, Moorhen 6, Coot 564, Oystercatcher 5, Lapwing 384, Dunlin 4, Ruff 1, Common Snipe 32, Redshank 2. JB, SJR
2017-02-13No sign of the diver this morning but maybe it was just sheltering from the wind. Wildfowl numbers continue to fall. 8 Goldeneye off the dam wall and 2 redhead Goosander at Millfields. Ruff, 2 Dunlin, 3 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshank. 1 GBbG.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2017-02-090830-1300. Whole site covered. Adult Great Northern Diver. 14 Cormorants. 45 Great Crested Grebes. 19 Little Grebes including 14 around the Wildlife Centre area. 8 Mute Swans. 156 Canada Geese. Pink-footed Goose. 12 Gadwall. 11 Wigeon. 159 Teal. 17 Pochard. 18 Goldeneye. 8 Moorhen. 4 Dunlin. Ruff. 6 Oystercatchers including a pair at Millfields. Pair on Big Island (hopton end), and a pair at Sheepwash which includes the ringed (bar code) bird returning for its 12th consecutive year. Dave Newcombe/Chris Brown
2017-02-0809:00 to 11:30 from Sheepwash hide 3 Goldeneye, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 lesser black backed gull, 1 Greater black backed gull, 1 Common gull, 65 Black headed gulls, 1 greylag Goose,2 Ravens, 1 Greater spotted woodpecker drumming, 30 Redwing. From brown ale bay 1 Redshank, 3 Dunlin. Great Northern Diver near dam wall.A H STEWARDSON
2017-02-07This morning from Stones Island 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Redshank, 1 Dunlin, 3 Ravens,from WLC 67 Common Snipe, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Ruff, 1 Pink foot Goose, 5 Common Buzzard. A H STEWARDSON
2017-02-0610:oo Lane end hide 1 Skylark flying south west, 1 Curlew calling, 11:00 from Stones Island, 2 Skylarks flying south west.A H STEWARDSON
2017-02-06Very foggy this morning, so I walked to Laneend hide. 10 Siskins, 2 Goldeneye from hide and 8 Great crested grebes, at the feeding station near Lane end hide excellent views of many of our commoner birds, I saw in 10 minutes Great,Blue, Coal,Willow and Longtailed Tits, Nuthatch, Treecreeper,Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Robin, Blackbird, Dunnock,Woodpigeon, Mistlethrush singing close by. From Stones Island when fog had cleared, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Ruff. A H STEWARDSON
2017-02-05Species noted during monthly birdwatching for beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island/ Wildlife Centre): Black-headed Gull, Mute Swan, Dunnock, Carrion Crow, Chaffinch, Robin, Starling, Coot, Gt Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Canada Goose, Teal, Blackbird, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, Lapwing, Tufted Duck, Ruff, Redshank, Cormorant, Long-tailed Tit, Wren, Mallard, Song Thrush, Greenshank, Gt Northern Diver, Goldeneye, Redwing, Pied Wagtail, Goosander, Snipe, Oystercatcher, Blue Tit, MagpieGary Atkins
2017-02-03This morning from Millfields, 1 Great Northern Diver, 2 Skylarks, 6 Goldeneye, 1 Raven, from Stones Island 1Ruff, 2 Redshank, from the WLC, 4 Dunlin, 11 Barnacle Geese, 1 Pink foot Goose, 1 Oystercatcher and 13 Common SnipeA H STEWARDSON
2017-02-02In thick fog little to report, 6 Dunlin and a Redshank on Stones island. 2 Stock Dove over. Pair of Mistle Thrush in traditional breeding area near Paul Stanley hide. Clive Ashton
2017-02-01This morning from Sheepwash hide,fog made any observations very difficult, 1 Pintail, 1 Common Snipe, 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Meadow Pipits, Greater spotted woodpecker could be heard drumming from the far bank. From Stones Island, fog turning to mist and eventually clearing,1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Ruff, 2 Dunlin, 1 Ringed Plover, 6 Common Snipe, 1 Oystercatcher, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Redshank. From the Wildlife Centre, 42 Common Snipe. A H STEWARDSON
2017-01-29This morning from Stones island 6 Dunlin,1 Shelduck,1 Great Northern Diver, 2 Common Snipe, from Wildlife Centre 1 Oystercatcher, 20 Common Snipe, 1 Pink footed Goose amongst the Canada Geese and 1 Great Black Backed Gull. A H STEWARDSON
2017-01-24This morning at Millfields, 1 Kingfisher,5 Lesser Redpolls. From Stones Island 1 Ruff,1 Curlew. From Wild life centre, 7 Common Snipe,1 Oystercatcher and amongst the Canada Geese 1 Pink footed goose and 22 Barnacle Geese.A H STEWARDSON
2017-01-24Hopton end- 2 Jack Snipe, 6 Grey Wagtails,Jay. 4 Jay flew over the road at Brown Ale Bay. Stones/WLC - 2 Redshank, Curlew, Ruff, Dunlin, 36 Snipe. Clive Ashton /Alan Stewardson
2017-01-22Hopton End 0715hrs, 3 Jack Snipe, and 2 Woodcock flew in. Millfields, 4 female Goosander. Stones Island, 1 Knot (AHS, RWK, RC) flew in 1000hrs, 17 Snipe, 1 Ruff, 5 Dunlin, 1 Redshank, Great Northern Diver and Raven plus Peregrine over. Wildlife Centre, 39 Snipe and 1 Oystercatcher.Roger Carrington
2017-01-21This morning from Stone's island,3 Redshank,5 Dunlin,1 Ruff,1 Oystercatcher from WLC and 4 Common Snipe.A H STEWARDSON
2017-01-20This morning from Stone's Island light south easterly breeze, pockets of light mist generally visibility excellent. 2 Redshank, 4 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, Great Northern Diver, Cetti's Warbler, 20 Whooper Swans distant and brief flying northwest at 9:15am 2 flying northwest at 10:07am 16 on water at 11:05am, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Skylark. From Wildlife Centre 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Great Black Backed Gull, 11 Common Snipe.A H STEWARDSON
2017-01-19From Stones Island GN Diver, 5 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, 1 Redshank, 11 Common Snipe, 2 Herring Gull, Grey Heron, Cetti's Warbler and 8 Lesser Redpoll. From WLC 25 more Snipe so 36 total. A pair of Teal displaying and mating in WLC Creek. Clive Ashton
2017-01-18Morning fog made any observations very difficult. On the causeway to Stones island I saw 4 Dunlin, 1 Ruff. 5 Common Snipe were just visible from the Wildlife centre. A H STEWARDSON
2017-01-151300-1700: GNDiver off Millfields. 333 Canada Geese. 2 Greylags 1 Pink-foot. 900 Lapwing (500 Sheepwash, 400 Sailing Club). 7 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. 1 Woodcock at Hopton at dusk. 12 Herring Gull. 1 Yellow-legged Gull. 25 Redwing at Hopton late pm. 2 Meadow Pipit. 4 Reed Bunting.Simon Roddis
2017-01-15January WeBs count-Mute Swan 22, Greylag Goose 2, Canada Goose 48, Cormorant 15, Great Crested Grebe 33, Little Grebe 12, Great Northern Diver 1, Wigeon 35, Teal 163, Mallard 143, Gadwall 33, Pintail 5, Tufted Duck 187, Pochard 55, Goldeneye 17, Coot 950, Moorhen 9, Lapwing 383, Dunlin 7, Ruff 1, Redshank 2, Snipe 7, Curlew 1.JB, SJR
2017-01-120730-1140: GNDiver still off Stones. 8 Goosander at Millfields early morning, and 3 calling Tawny Owls. Female Peregrine. 600 Lapwing at Sailing Club. Ruff still on Stones causeway.9 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. Ad GBbG. 2 female Kingfishers (Millfields and Brownale Bay). 40 Redwing. 15 Bullfinch, including 13 (7m,6f) on Sheepwash feeder. 3 Greenfinch. 2 Lesser Redpoll. 35 Siskin.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
2017-01-100715-1145: GNDiver off Stones island. 4 Jack Snipe, 4 Woodcock and 9 Grey Wagtails at Hopton reedbed first thing. 29 Barnacle Geese. 15 Gadwall. 10 Goldeneye (7m,3f). 1000 Lapwing spread between Sheepwash, WLC and Sailing Club. 7 Dunlin. Ad GBbG. Female Kingfisher again in Brownale Bay. Willow Tit singing at Hopton. Mistle Thrushes singing at Hopton and Sheepwash. 10 Bullfinch, inc. 9 (3m,6f) on the topped-up feeder in Sheepwash carpark.Simon Roddis
2017-01-080730-1230: GNDiver, Ruff and Cetti's Warbler still on/around Stones. 24 Goosander (4 ad males, 4 imm males) and 12 Goldeneye (8 males) off the dam wall at Millfields first thing. 3 Shoveler (2 males). 29 Barnacle Geese. 95 Common Snipe at the WLC (the record is 130 in 2003). 7 Dunlin. 2+ Redshank. 500 Lapwing. 1 Golden Plover. 1 ad Yellow-legged Gull at Sheepwash. 3 GBbG. 2 GSWoodpeckers drumming at Millfields. Female Kingfisher again in Brownale Bay. 2 Raven. 2 Greenfinch. 1 Linnet. (69 species)Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2017-01-060730-1200: I decided to do a count of small(ish) stuff this morning, so the following are totals from Hopton to Stones: 4 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, 7 Moorhen, 1 Kingfisher, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 13 Magpie, 1 Jay, 300 Jackdaw, 52 Blue Tit, 30 Great Tit, 10 Coal Tit, 3 Willow Tit, 5 Nuthatch, 4 Treecreeper, 27 Wrens, 65 Blackbird, 19 Song Thrush, 82 Redwing, 47 Robin, 21 Dunnock, 5 Grey Wagtails, 28 Chaffinch, 8 Bullfinch, 3 Greenfinch, 27 Siskin and 5 Reed Bunting. The GN Diver is still there, along with 12 Shoveler. Surprisingly, there were some early signs of breeding activity: a pair of Mallards mating towards the Hopton end, and a pair of Mute Swans at Sheepwash which were displaying to each other, mirroring each other’s moves as they preened, dipped their heads in the water, bowed to each other and so on – beautiful to watch – but it turned out that this was also the preamble to a bit of how’s your father: at least they then had the decency to do a bit more post-coital displaying to each other afterwards. Clearly the pair bond means more to Mute Swans than it does to Mallard! Alan S. also had a pair of Coots mating near the WLC.Simon Roddis
2017-01-05Tawny Owl, Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 300 Jackdaw, singing Willow Tit and 9 Grey Wags at Hopton reedbed first thing. 215 Canadas, 1 Greylag, 1 Pink-foot. (72 species)Simon Roddis
2017-01-05Adult GN Diver, 25 Snipe, 6 Dunlin, 3 Redshank, Ruff, 3 Goosander over and Cetti's Warbler.Clive Ashton
2017-01-040800-1230: adult GNDiver off Stones. 8 Greylag. 15 Goldeneye. 3 Goosander. 24 Cormorant. 3 Dunlin. 3 Redshank. 17 Common Snipe at WLC. 4 Great Black-backs (the resident bird plus 3 adults north). 14+ Stock Doves. Female Kingfishers at Millfields and Brownale Bay, difficult to say whether one or two birds. 3 Kestrel. 3 Great Spots. The Cetti's Warbler on Stones showed incredibly well, called then popped up into a bush for about 30 seconds. (67 species)Simon Roddis
2017-01-03GN Diver, Ruff and Cetti's Warbler all still present around/off Stones. 2 drake Pintail also off Stones.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2017-01-01Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon) - 33 species: House Sparrow, Coot, Pochard, Gadwall, Jackdaw, Gt Tit, Robin, Little Grebe, Pheasant, Mute Swan, Mallard, Chaffinch, Tree Sparrow, Blue Tit, Magpie, Willow Tit, Tufted Duck, Woodpigeon, Lapwing, Dunnock, Teal, Blackbird, Collared Dove, Snipe, Ruff, Pied Wagtail, Gt Crested Grebe, Goldeneye, Wigeon, Black-hd Gull, Wren, Goldfinch, Carrion CrowGary Atkins
2017-01-01Afternoon visit: GN Diver still off Stones. 207 Canada Geese, 28 Barnacles, 1 Pink-foot, 1 Greylag. 1 Ruff still. 1 Redshank. 6 Dunlin. 3 Woodcock at Hopton reedbed at dusk.Simon Roddis
2016-12-310720-1200: GNDiver still present. At Hopton reedbed first thing, 4 Jack Snipe, 5 Woodcock, 4 Tawny Owls calling, 9 Grey Wagtails and 5 Reed Bunting. 25 Mute Swan, 1 Shoveler, 16 Goldeneye, 5 Goosander, 5 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 2 GBbG, 14 Feral Pigeons, 3 Stock Doves, 2 Raven, 90 Redwing (Millfields), 13 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall. 71 species.Simon Roddis
2016-12-29WeBs count for December-Little Grebe 16, Great Crested Grebe 32, Cormorant 22, Grey Heron 1, Mute Swan 20, Canada Goose 99, Barnacle Goose 15, Wigeon 103, Gadwall 27, Teal 221, Mallard 148, Pochard 177, Tufted Duck 196, Goldeneye 16, Moorhen 11, Coot 939, Lapwing 676, Dunlin 8, Snipe 22, Redshank 2.JB, SJR
2016-12-28GNDiver from Millfields this morning. 1 Shoveler at WLC. 7 Dunlin. Cetti's Warbler still on Stones. 2 Raven.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-12-260730-1045: GNDiver still between Stones and Millfields. Ruff still around Stones. 2 Redshank. 10 Dunlin at Sheepwash. 3 Woodcock flew into the Hopton end conservation area first thing, and 13 Grey Wags flew out of the reedbed. 8 Stock Dove. Great Spot drumming and Willow Tit singing at Brownale Bay, plus 5 Bullfinch including 3 feeding on the ground on the footpath. 80 Redwing.Simon Roddis
2016-12-25GNDiver off Millfields. A dark-bellied Brent Goose among Canadas on the dam wall. 20 Barnacles. 9 Goosander. 11 Goldeneye. 150 Golden Plover over Watersports. Ruff still. 10 Dunlin at Sheepwash. 2 Redshank. 2 ad Herring Gull. 1 GBbG. 7 Lesser Redpoll on Stones. Happy Christmas!Simon Roddis
2016-12-23GN Diver from Millfields this morning. 10 Dunlin and 1 Redshank around Stones. 1 GBbG. 2 Raven. 6 Lesser Redpoll at Millfields. 70 Siskin (30 Millfields, 40 Brownale Bay).Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-12-21GN Diver still present. 3 Shelduck, 11 Dunlin, Ruff, 2 Redshank, c50 Snipe and Cetti's Warbler. Clive Ashton
2016-12-201200-1500: 49 Greylag, 29 Barnacles, 12 Goosander (Millfields), 3 Shoveler, 500 Lapwing, 8 Dunlin, 2 ad Yellow-legged Gulls (Sheepwash).Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-12-20Adult Great Northern Diver off Stones Island this morning. Also present Ruff, 2 Redshank, 8 Dunlin, 280 Golden Plover, 48 Snipe, Cetti's Warbler, 5 Goosander and Kingfisher.CA/RC/SJR
2016-12-170730-1200: Little Stint, Ruff, 8 Dunlin and Cetti's Warbler still on Stones island, and 1 Crossbill over, flying N. 1 Curlew. 31 Pink-footed Geese SE at 0935, 130 NW at 1125. 16 Barnacle Geese. 5 Shoveler. 10 Goosander. 13 Goldeneye. 6 Bullfinch and 20 Siskin at Millfields. 76 species.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-12-1642 Golden Plover, Little Stint and Dunlins with Lapwing flock on Watersports Island. Elusive Cetti's Warbler still calling occasionally on Stones Island this afternoon. 6 Shoveler(3 drakes) and 15 Barnacle Geese from Wildlife Centre. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls, 12 Herring Gulls in roost from Sheepwash Hide and 2 Raven over.Roger Carrington
2016-12-15Afternoon visit: Little Stint, Ruff and Cetti's Warbler still on Stones island. 2 White-fronted Geese with 11 Greylags from Lane End, presumably the 2 that were seen around the south of the county a few weeks ago. Pair of Shoveler at WLC. At least 800 Common Gull in the roost by 1530. Single Herring, Yellow-legged and GBB Gulls from Sheepwash. 3 Willow Tit at WLC. 10 Lesser Redpoll on Stones. 30 Siskin at Hopton. 66 species, not bad for a grotty afternoon!Simon Roddis
2016-12-14Little Stint and Ruff still around Stones/Watersports island, along with 29 Golden Plover, 13 Dunlin, 3 Redshank. Adult Herring and Yellow-legged Gulls at Sheepwash. 13 Goldeneye. 100 Redwing at Millfields. 4 Greenfinch. 14 Feral Pigeons at Tail Bay.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-12-13Little Stint and Ruff still on Stones island. 9 Dunlin. 39 Common Snipe. 1 Jack Snipe at Hopton reedbed early morning. 700 Lapwing. 16 Gadwall. 182 Pochard (from Sheepwash and WLC). 2 Herring Gull. 1 GBbG. In 2 hours in Hopton/Sheepwash area, 32 Robins, 26 Blackbirds, 32 Wrens, 16 Dunnocks and 11 Song Thrushes. 15 Grey Wagtails out of Hopton reedbed early morning. 1 Brambling at Hopton. 9 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
2016-12-12Little Stint and Ruff still on Watersports island. 16 Goosander (1m,15 redheads) at Millfields. 9 Herring Gulls. 3 Stock Doves. 1 Skylark. 28 Fieldfare S. 1 Brambling at Millfields.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-12-11Little Stint, Ruff, 18 Dunlin, 2 Shelduck and male Stonechat still around Stones. 10 Shoveler (5m,5f) at WLC. 250 Pink-footed Geese E. 700 Lapwing. 1 Golden Plover. 2 Redshank. 3 Jack Snipe in Hopton reedbed at first light. c40 Herring Gull S. 10 Stock Dove. 600 Redwing and 130 Fieldfare S. 13 Grey Wagtails out of Hopton reedbed first thing. 10 Lesser Redpoll (9 on Stones). 74 species.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
2016-12-10Little Stint, Ruff, 18 Dunlin and 2 Shelduck all still present. Cetti's Warbler calling and giving short bursts of song on Stones Island. Kingfisher flew over Stones. 6 Grey Wagtail out of Hopton reed bed at dawn.Clive Ashton
2016-12-09Little Stint, Ruff, 18 Dunlin, 2 Shelduck and Cetti's Warbler still around Stones/Watersports. Jack Snipe at Hopton reedbed early morning. 4 Herring Gull. 1 GBbG. 1+ Skylark over. 3 Raven. More southwards movement of thrushes: 2150 Redwing and 45 Fieldfare. 12 Grey Wag came out of Hopton reedbed early morning. 1 Brambling over Hopton. 8 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.SJR, AHS, CA
2016-12-08Little Stint still on Watersports island. 18 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. 400 Lapwing. 210 Teal. 2 Shelduck. Adult male Peregrine causing havoc. 4 Stock Dove incl 3 high to SE. 1 Skylark. Cetti's Warbler and male Stonechat on Stones island. Some of the Redwing that flew NE a couple of weeks ago clearly decided they didn't like it up there: 1400 flew S this morning. 30 Fieldfare.Simon Roddis, Roger Carrington
2016-12-07Brief visit this morning: 16 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, Ruff and Little Stint all on Stones Island along with 2 Shelduck and the Cetti's Warbler.Clive Ashton
2016-12-05Buzzard teal redshank 14 snipe 15 dunlin Wigeon lesser black backed gull kestrel redwings Pochard gadwall goldcrest goldeneye All seen between 10am and 12pm Tom Wareham
2016-12-05Monthly Birdwaching for Beginners walk (10am-noon); 42 species observed, which is the best total of 2016 and includes two species not seen before during 11 years of previous BfB walks. Details: Magpie, Blackbird, Carrion Crow, Starling, Jackdaw, Pied Wagtail, Woodpigeon, Dunnock, Dunlin, Gt Black-backed Gull, Lapwing, Coot, Little Stint, Shelduck, Teal, Wigeon, Mallard, Canada Goose, Ruff, Gt Crested Grebe, Snipe, Little Grebe, Tufted Duck, Mute Swan, Robin, Blue Tit, Black-headed Gull, House Sparrow, Collared Dove, Wren, Great Tit, Chaffinch, Redpoll, Cormorant, Pochard, Tree Sparrow, Song Thrush, Willow Tit, Coal Tit, Gt Spotted Woodpecker, Kestrel and Pink-footed Goose.Gary Atkins
2016-12-042 Shelduck off Stones IslandIan Scrimshaw
2016-12-03Little Stint, Ruff and Cetti's still present. 180 Canada Geese. 4 Greylags. 19 Gadwall. 17 Dunlin. 3 Redshank. Woodcock at Hopton first thing. 1 GBbG. 450 Redwing. 600 Jackdaw over Hopton early morning. Simon Roddis
2016-12-03Little Stint, Ruff, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 18 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 2 Shelduck on Stones/Watersports. 1 more Dunlin at WLC. Cetti's still on Stones.SHR, JB, AHS
2016-12-01Little Stint still on Watersports island, and a Ruff and 17 Dunlin there. 3 Redshank. Jack Snipe at Hopton reedbed first thing. 147 Canadas and 1 Pink-foot. 17 Goosander at Millfields at dawn. 17+ Gadwall. No sign of the Scaup. 1 Little Egret flew through early morning. 150 Woodpigeons N. Cetti's Warbler still on Stones island. Male Stonechat at WLC. 3 Mistle Thrush at Sheepwash. 14 Grey Wagtails out of Hopton reedbed early morning.SJR, CA, DN, CB
2016-11-302 Hawfinches NE over Hopton end are the first since 2006. Quieter vismig: 740 Redwings, 266 Fieldfare, 200 Woodpigeons, 1 Stock Dove. Little Stint, Scaup and Cetti's Warbler all still present. 44 Common Snipe (Roger C's count), big increase this week. 12 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. 1 GBbG. Water Rail calling in Hopton reedbed. Simon Roddis
2016-11-29Birds on the move again at Hopton this morning: 2580 Redwing, 109 Fieldfare and 1 Blackbird NE, 235 Woodpigeons and 1 Stock Dove N, 0830-1000. 10 Dunlin at Watersports/Stones. 9 Lesser Redpoll at Hopton.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-11-28Vismig at Hopton, 0820-1000: 3150 Redwing, 26 Fieldfare, 1 Blackbird, 200 Starling all NE. 5 Stock Dove E. 14 Common Scoter off Stones late morning (RC) but appeared to have gone by 1300. Imm male Scaup still in Brownale Bay. Little Stint still on Watersports island. 9 Dunlin. 22 Common Snipe. 4 Herring Gull. 3 Raven. Cetti's still calling on south side of Stones, and 1 Chiffchaff at Hopton. 6 Greenfinch at Hopton. (70 species)SJR,AHS,RC
2016-11-27Large movement over Hopton this morning: 9270 Redwing, 82 Fieldfare, 4 Blackbird, 870 Starling, all north-east. 110 Woodpigeons N. 2 Stock Dove E. 15 Lesser Redpoll. 50 Siskin. The Scaup still in Brownale Bay.Simon Roddis
2016-11-26A very late Little Stint on Stones Island this morning. Also present 3 Jack Snipe in the Hopton end, Shoveler and the 1st winter drake Scaup in Brown Ale Bay [JB], 44 Pink footed Geese west, 5 Snipe, 4 Dunlin, 4 Redshank, Yellow legged Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Cetti's Warbler singing briefly and 530 Wood Pigeons north.CA,JB,SJR,AHS.
2016-11-25Afternoon visit: 165 Canadas with 1 Pink-foot at WLC. Scaup still in Brownale Bay. Drake Goosander. In the Gull roost, c.4000 Black-heads, 4-500 Lesser Black-backs, 500+ Commons (282 Commons at Sheepwash at 14:00). 1 GBbG. At Hopton at dusk, 450 Jackdaws over, 600 Starlings to roost, 3 Grey Wags.Simon Roddis
2016-11-25Drake Red-breasted Merganser and 2 Dunlin from Sheepwash (RC). Jack Snipe at Hopton Reedbed and first winter drake Scaup still in Brownale Bay (AS). 150 Pinkfeet heading NW at 0850hrs, 250 Wood Pigeons NE in 3 flocks (RC)Roger Carrington, Alan Stewardson
2016-11-24First winter male Scaup back in Brownale Bay. 65 Pink-feet W. 125 Canada Geese. Male Goosander. 8 Goldeneye. 1 Peregrine. 500 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. 4 Dunlin. 1 Herring Gull. 2 Raven. 14 Lesser Redpoll on Stones. Another birder heard the Cetti's sing briefly on Stones this morning.Simon Roddis, Ken Rome
2016-11-23Cetti's Warbler showed fairly well and calling in scrub between main path and burial mound on Stones on either side of path before flying to reeds in small pond.Steph Hicking
2016-11-23Cetti's Warbler still on Stones island, calling and sang briefly. Jack Snipe in Hopton reedbed first thing. Possible Lapland Bunting flew over Stones, heard calling but getting further away all the time. 8 Goldeneye. 22 Cormorant. 300 Lapwing. 5 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. 15 Common Snipe. 1 Herring Gull. 1 Stock Dove. 5 Grey Wag. 59 Fieldfare (48E, 11W). 2 Mistle Thrushes singing (Hopton and Sheepwash). 7 Brambling at Hopton. 3 Greenfinch. (66 species)Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2016-11-22Cettis Warbler still on Stones Island showing in willows by the mound, calling occasionally.Roger Carrington
2016-11-19CETTI'S WARBLER on Stones Island seen briefly at c9:00am in Willows by the Barrow then heard calling several times till c10:00am when it was last heard in the Blackthorn hedge on the centre of Stones. 2 female Common Scoters in Fishtail Creek.JB, SJR, AS
2016-11-18187 Canada Geese, 1 Pink-footed Goose, 1 Barnacle Goose, 4 Goldeneye, 2 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, c350 Lapwing, 1,050 Wood Pigeons N/E, 70 Starling W, 50 Redwing and 30 Goldfinch WLC Creek.Clive Ashton
2016-11-14The highlight this morning was a first-winter male Scaup with Tufted Ducks in Brownale Bay. 1 Shelduck and adult Yellow-legged Gull at Sheepwash. Total of 219 Pochard and 480 Lapwing. 3 Dunlin. 2 Redshank. 150 Woodpigeons N. 1 Kingfisher (Stones). 3 Kestrel. 4 GS Woodpecker. 1 Raven. 32 Fieldfare S. 14 Meadow Pipit. 10 Lesser Redpoll on Stones. 70 Siskin (30 Millfields, 40 WLC). 72 species.Simon Roddis

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