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
2009-10-15Shoveler (1), Pintail (5) Eclipsed and maybe single drake, Gadwall (4), Pochard, Teal, Wigeon, Mallard, (all large numbers) Coot, Moorhen, Grey Heron (2), Cormorant (7). Gulls – BH, LBB, Herring, Yellow Leg, Mediterranean (1) and a probable Caspian Gull (1) in gull roost [17:45 – 18:25hr]. Dunlin (6-7) flying north . The GN Diver was seen by MAP near Dam at Millfields end. Circled and flew off north without settling. In Winter Plumage [Posted this report only after ID. help and consultation with MAP & J.Bradley.] David Edmonds
2009-10-15Regarding the Great Northern Diver. The report was that it only circled Carsington before flying off North.Dave Newcombe
2009-10-15A Great Northern Diver has been reported on the BirdGuides website this morning. I'm afraid that I have no information as to where it was seen or if it is still on site.Paul Bennett
2009-10-15Tuesday 13th Oct 2009 Mediterranean Gull - 1 adult Yellow-legged Gull - 1 adult The gulls formed in two flocks pre-roost, one of which parked themselves between the spit and the far bank, affording good views from the Sheepwash hide. I picked up the Med Gull towards 5.45 (including a short view in flight) and the Yellow-legged Gull shortly after and towards 6.15 they drifted towards the middle of the reservoir with the other gulls.Paul Mollatt
2009-10-155 Common Scoter near Dam Wall, 5 Pintail around Sheepwash, also 2 Shoveler, Yellow-legged Gull, Dunlin, Kingfisher, 2 Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks and 55 Redwings. Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-10-13WeBS count for the month:- Mute Swan 40,Canada Goose 157,Shelduck 6,Wigeon 590,Gadwall 39,Teal 123,Mallard 132,Pintail 1,Shoveller 3,Pochard 148,Red-crested Pochard 12,Tufted Duck 733,Little Grebe 83,Great Crested Grebe 42,Cormorant 57,Grey Heron 3,Moorhen 49,Coot 1770,Lapwing 160,Kingfisher 4,Black-headed Gull 27,Lesser Black-backed Gull 51,Peregrine 1,Sparrowhawk 1,Buzzard 1.Peter Gibbon and John Bradley
2009-10-12Nice sunny day. Birds of note: Common Buzzard (1) and Common Sandpiper (1) - Horseshoe Island. Dragonflies: Common Hawker; Common Darter (pr) - this species is on the wing until mid-November. Butterfly: Speckled Wood only. Plants: Stunted plants by the edge of Stones Island. Area covered in water until relatively recently. Drying out and recent sunshine has brought Brooklime (deep blue), Water forget-me-not (pale blue) and Redshank (pink) into flower. Very late flowering Lesser Periwinkle (dark blue) found elsewhere. Probably seeds had been dormant, then disturbed in late summer. Also found Scented Mayweed or Wild Chamomile (yellow domed centre with white petals). Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-10-124 Buzzards at Millfields, 6 Meadow Pipits on Dam Wall and a Skylark over, also 3 Skylarks over Stones Island. From Sheepwash, 2 Ravens, Kingfisher, Dunlin, Yellow-legged Gull, 6 Grey Herons, 16 Redwings, Shoveler and Pintail.Dave Newcombe
2009-10-10From Sheepwash and Paul Stanley: 2(f) Goldeneye, 1(f) Common Scoter, 2 Pintail, 3 Snipe, 1 Kingfisher, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, 1 Common Gull WLC: 2(m) Red-crested PochardJames Owen
2009-10-09Afew hours this afternoon: 3 Pintail 1 Red crested Pochard 1 Chiloe Wigeon 295 Wigeon 143 Pochard 65 Teal 1 Tern sp. probably an Arctic. 3 Buzzard,Sparrowhawk,Kestrel,Raven and 2 Kingfishers.Clive Ashton
2009-10-08Good No's of Duck species at Sheepwash, Pochard, Tufted, Teal and Wigeon, plus the Chiloe Wigeon drake which seems to be displaying aggressively to the female Wigeons! Lapwings were roosting on the floating weed mats out in the middle of the water, some sinking up to their bellies!The roost was a few thousand Lesser Black Backs, with 2 or 3 Yellow-legged Gulls and 3 or so Herrings....(ads and Imms).Best views were of a Kingfisher fishing for over an hour in the small pool to the right of Sheepwash Hide! Cracking views.Steph' Hicking
2009-10-07Rock Pipit on the Dam Wall early morning, 5 Buzzards, Yellow-legged Gull, Raven, Kingfisher, 107 Pochard, 54 Cormorants, Chiloe Wigeon and 5 Chiff Chaffs including one singing.Dave Newcombe
2009-10-0641 species during today's event in the Wildlife Centre. Notable were a Raven and Peregrine mobbing each other (or playing?) around the pylons near Shiningford Farm. A single Snipe and Yellow-legged Gull, the Kingfisher showed exceptionally well on the new post. A Kestrel caught prey on the bank beyond Horseshoe Is, a Buzzard flew low into WLC Creek, and a Sparrowhawk caught prey by the bird table. A single Little Grebe chick still present. 1 Mistle Thrush overflew. Stones Is: 1 Chiffchaff singing again, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker flew over the Visitor Centre.James Owen
2009-10-05Of note: Grey Heron (2) - Horseshoe Island & Shiningford Island, Barnacle Goose (45) - Sailing Club Island, Common Buzzard (1) - over Shiningford Farm, Yellow-legged Gull (1) - from Wildlife Centre (WC), Robin - at least 10 singing near WC, and Blackcap (1) - singing on Stones Island.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-10-053 Whooper Swans flew north at 10.05, Common Sandpiper and Kingfisher at Sheepwash, Chiloe Wigeon still present, Raven, 3 Buzzards, 4 Linnets, Greylag Goose, Chiff Chaff, Yellow-legged Gull, 3'000 Lesser black Backed Gulls, 7 Common Gulls, 6+ Crossbils flew over Paul Stanley hide (RC).Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-10-012 Kingfishers, 2 Ravens, Peregrine, Chiloe Wigeon, still present. 2 Jays.Clive Ashton
2009-09-30Of note: Grey Heron (1) - Wildlife Centre Creek, Kestrel (1) - over Watersports Island, Collared Dove (8) - on Wildlife Centre feeding table and in the trees behind, Blackcap (1) - singing male on Stones Island. Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-09-301 Skylark flew over Stones Island. A Dunlin flew past past Sheepwash towards Stones Island at 1700hrs. An adult Kittiwake was in the gull roost from 1700hrs. A female Common Scoter was off Stones Island at dusk.Roger Carrington
2009-09-29First visit this year! 44 species seen and a further 4 either heard or probables. All 4 Hides and Stones Island visited, on a very drizzly day. Highlights include: Canada Goose, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Wigeon, Gadwall, Lapwing, Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Tree Sparrow, Mute Swan, Cormorant, Snipe, Kingfisher, Pochard, Teal, Pheasant, Greylag Goose, Grey Heron, Jay, House Martin (in good numbers considering its nearly October!), Goldfinch, Chiffchaff, Bullfinch, and both Black-backed Gulls. Nothing major, and several notables missing! However, there was the male Chiloe Wigeon (unringed) showing very well from Sheepwash. Presumably this is an escape rather than a first for Britain? Also seen were several Rats at PS Hide, and a Water Vole at WLC pool.Peter Charlton
2009-09-28On site today was a drake Chiloe Wigeon (presumably the same bird that's been at Ogston since early summer). Also on site a Shoveler, 85 Pochards, 10 Housemartins, Swallow, 2 Kingfishers, Grey Wagtail, 3 Meadow Pipits, 4 Linnets, 4 Chiff Chaffs, 3 Buzzards, 2 Ravens, 6 Grey Herons, 54 Cormorants and a Greylag Goose. Dave Newcombe
2009-09-24Of note: Little Grebe - adult feeding a very tiny young bird (in front of the wildlife centre (WC) main window), Great Crested Grebe - adults with three striped young, Mute Swan - inc. one pair with 6 large grey cygnets, Cormorant (24) - Horseshoe Island (HI), Pochard (5) - Shiningford Creek, Lapwing (~60) - in the air and on HI, House Martin (2), Swallow (1), Chiffchaff (1) - singing on Stones Island and a Jackdaw flecked, with many white feathers, feeding at the WC feeding table.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-09-221 Yellow-legged Gull at WLC on the usual raft.Kingfisher showing very well at WLC and Paul Stanley.Also notables at PS Hide, 2 Buzzard, 1 Raven, 1 Greylag Goose among many Canadas on Flat Is, 2 Heron, several Long-tailed Tits, 300 Lesser Black-backed Gulls flew in at 6pm.WLC: 5 Snipe, 3 Swallow, 1 Kestrel, 32 Cormorant, 6 Wigeon, many Teal, c.35 Lapwing, a pair of Little Grebe with 1 very small chick, 3 Pied Wagtail, 4 Pochard, 1 Black-headed GullStones Island, 1 calling Chiffchaff, 2 Great Crested Grebe with 2 young.Sparrowhawk flew from Shiningford Creek.James Owen (RSPB vol)
2009-09-20WeBS count for September done between 7.30 and 11.00. Mute Swan 23, Canada Goose 158, Wigeon 270, Gadwall 19, Teal 57, Mallard 170, pochard 48, Tufted Duck 1008 (double the number for this time last year), Little Grebe 53, Great Crested Grebe 41, Cormorant 41, Grey Heron 4, Moorhen 25, Coot 1,379. Lapwing 111, Snipe 4 and Kingfisher 1. Also 2 Buzzard. Total 3375.Peter Gibbon
2009-09-17Overcast today but no rain. Few birding visitors seen. Of note: Cormorant (25) - Horseshoe Island, Grey Heron (1) - Shiningford Island, Mute Swan - two pairs of adults with 4 & 5 very large grey cygnet broods respectively, Teal (~ 100) - much increased in numbers since last week, Mallard - including 5 well formed ducklings innocently feeding at our feet on the edge of Stones Island, GARGANEY (1 imm) - in front of the Wildlife Centre and Lapwing (~40) - Horseshoe Island. Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-09-15107 Pied Wagtails, 6 Meadow Pipits, Yellow-legged Gull, 91 Wigeon, 27 Gadwall, Pintail, 2 Redshanks, 43 Cormorants, 3 Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks, Kestrel, Grey Heron, Kingfisher, 50+ Housemartins, 10+ Swallows.Dave Newcombe
2009-09-09Of note: Grey Heron (1) - on Horseshoe Island (HI), Gadwall (4 prs) in amongst the mass of Tufted Ducks (several hundred!) immediately in front of the Wildlife Cente (WC) and in WC Creek, Teal (10) - HI, Lapwing (~50) - HI, Swallow (10) and Willow Warbler (1)- Stones Island. Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-09-09On site for around 9 hours today and saw 23 Pochard, 21 Gadwall, 14 Wigeon, Yellow-Legged Gull, 2 Sparrowhawks including one chasing Pied Wagtails near Dam wall, 35 Pied Wagtails, Grey Wagtail, 8 Meadow Pipits, 4 Buzzards, 3 Ravens, Kestrel, 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Grey Herons, Kingfisher, Oystercatcher (poss 2). On shiningford creek by the bend near the farm there was a lot of bird activity. I stood there for a good half hour and watched Willow Warblers, Chiff Chaffs (including 3 singing), male Blackcap, 2 Common Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Bullfinches including 3 juveniles, 2 Willow Tits and lots of other common birds. Dave Newcombe
2009-09-07An Osprey flew south today at 15.00, also 14 Buzzards in the air together, 12 high over sheepwash spit and 2 over the dam wall, Pintail, 2 Common Sandpipers, 19 Gadwall, 11 Wigeon, 2 Meadow Pipits, good sized tit flock on stones island with maybe as many as 20 Warblers with most if not all being Chiff Chaffs. Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-09-04Of note: Cormorant (14) - Stones Island, Gadwall (4 prs) - from the Wildlife Centre(WC), Teal (2) - Horseshoe Island (HI), Pheasant (1 male) - by the WC feeding station, Lapwing (~30) - HI, Yellow-legged Gull (1) - Tern raft and KINGFISHER (1) - flew past the WC THREE times within 10 minutes around midday. Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-08-27Of note: 19 Mute Swans including 5 cygnets, Gadwall (2 prs) - from wildlife centre (WC); Lapwing (~60) - on Horseshoe Island; Yellow-legged Gull (1) - on Tern raft; Swallow and House Martin (20+ each); Tree Sparrow (20+) - all around and on the WC feeding table; many were youngsters.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-08-27A family walk round the res today, so whilst not really birding I did note the following; Brood of 3 GC Grebe at Lane End Brood of at least 3 GC Grebe at Shiningford Creek, 2 youngsters in the water and at least 1 on adults back. A pair of Pochard in Shiningford Creek and 3 males in Fishtail Creek. 6 Wigeon at Millfields. Clive Ashton
2009-08-24Not a bad day today. Black Tern towards Millfields, Wheatear on Millfields Island, Yellow-legged Gull, 5 Gadwall, Teal, Pochard, 3 Wigeon, Great Crested Grebe with 3 small young, 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Kingfishers, 2 Swifts, Curlew, male Sparrowhawk, adult Common Gull. Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-08-24From WLC, all usual suspects, but along with Chris from RSPB-ABB between 09:30 and 10:30 we observed :- Pochard (1), Yellow Leg Gull (1), Chiff Chaff (1) and Willow Warbler (1)David & Sue Edmonds
2009-08-24I was out for a walk yesterday afternoon and took the second footpath off the track, after entering the site at the North End. Whilst crossing the third field, heading for Stainsborough Lane, a flock of Common Crossbills flew over (heading ESE)and into the trees on the edge of Rough Pitty Side. They were quite active, but hung around in the same area in the tops of the trees. I managed a best count of 19.Paul Bennett
2009-08-23WeBS count for August done today between 7.30 and 10.30. 27 Mute Swan, 224 Canada Goose, 3 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 6 Teal, 83 Mallard, 309 Tufted Duck, 46 Little Grebe, 27 Great Crested Grebe, 16 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 10 Moorhen, 575 Coot, 55 Lapwing, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Black-Headed Gull, 1 Kingfisher.Peter Gibbon
2009-08-20Yellow-Legged Gull, 3 Wigeon, 4 Buzzards, adult male Peregrine, female Gadwall, 50+ Goldfinches including 40+ juveniles, Common Sandpiper, Raven.Dave Newcombe
2009-08-16Osprey from sheepwash 15:35-15:45, mobbed by Peregrine, before flying over Hall Wood. Also Common Sandpiper, Kingfisher and YL Gull.Clive Ashton
2009-08-15A pair of Hobbies were hunting hirundines over Shiningford farm, for at least an hour this morning.One was observed with prey, which it ate on one of the pylons. Also present from the Wildlife centre,Sparrowhawk,Raven, 2 Buzzard,4 Gadwall,Shoveler and Teal. Common Sandpiper at Sheepwash.Clive Ashton
2009-08-13Oversights! Thistles are mainly over, just showing fluffy white heads instead of purple flowers. This situation is very good for Goldfinches. Also very noticable today were masses of Hover flies and various bee species. We had a very enjoyable time on site today. Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-08-13Very busy on site today because it was sunny. However, few birders about. Of note: Tufted Duck (female with 5 quite small ducklings), Lapwing (10) - on Horseshoe Island, Yellow-legged Gull (1) - on the raft opposite the wildlife centre, Goldfinch (10) - on Horseshoe Island, Bullfinch (pair) on wildlife centre feeding station. It was reported to us that an Osprey was seen over the dam on the 12th August. Also the Little Egret was seen.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-08-11An angler reported an Osprey flying south along the west bank, from near the brick bombing tower at 15.00 today. This was subsequently radioed through to STW staff by Phil from Fisheries. Fortunately, I happened to have a pair of binoculars in the van and after a few minutes, I managed to locate it flying south down the centre of the reservoir. It then started circling just north-east of Watersports Island. I then carried on with what I was doing, so I'm not sure where it went after that. Paul Bennett (STW Ranger Service)
2009-08-05Little Owl in field between main car park and wildlife centre. Yellow-Legged Gull, drake Common Scoter, Little Egret, 2 Common Sandpipers, Oystercatcher, Kinghfisher, 2 Buzzards, male Sparrowhawk, 3 Little Grebe young, Whitethroat. Dave Newcombe
2009-08-03Overall quite busy on-site but few birders about. Weather: quite warm and no rain for a change! Of note: Lapwing (10), Wren (1) - juvenile, hit Wildlife Centre (WC)window but seemed unharmed. Dunnock (2 juveniles) - feeding at the WC feeding station, Willow Warbler (2) - one adult and a juvenile in the willow in front of the WC. House Sparrow - several including a juvenile being fed by adults, Bullfinch (pr) - feeding at the WC feeding station. A Weasel observed from the WC front window. Great! Butterflies: Small White, Green-veined White, Large White, Small Copper, Gatekeeper, Painted Lady, Peacock and Meadow Brown. Buff-tailed and Red-tailed Bumblebees seen on Stones Island.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-08-02House Martin (50+) near Visitor Centre; Swift (20-30) end of Stones Island; Tufted Duck (3 families); Litte Grebe (12) engaging in squabbles; Gold Finch (20 appx) Stones Island; Little Egret (1) flying past Stones Island towards watersports ctr.David & Sue Edmonds
2009-07-27It was very noticable today that there was hardly any birdsong. Very few species located. Of note: Barnacle Goose (6), Common Tern (1), Swift (3), Goldfinch (10) - Stones Island, Bullfinch (a pair). Plants: A large mass of Redhank noticed on Horseshoe Island. Plants in flower but not previously noted: Hedge Bindweed, Large Bird's-foot Trefoil, Common St John's-wort and Short-fruited Willowherb.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-07-27Little Egret still present around Stones Island area. Kingfisher and drake Pochard at the Wildlife Centre. The pair of Common Terns have successfully raised one young which made several brief flights around flat island today. Other sightings include Hobby, Whimbrel,and Common Sandpiper. Several Tufted Duck broods around including one of 13 plus three more of 3/3 and 8. Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-07-25Just a walk today with wife so not really birding but spotted a single Little Tern close to stones islandLeslie Fisher
2009-07-22Little Egret on Stones Island and later on Watersports Island, Male Redstart in field behind the Wildlife Centre, juvenile Perergine over Middle Wood, Gadwall and Kingfisher at Sheepwash. Two Tufted Duck broods of 5 & 10. Two Common Terns still presumably feeding one young on Flat Island.Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-07-20Few birds on site today. A tufted duck family has been reduced to 8 ducklings since last week. Only two Lapwings found on Horseshoe Island. Of the warblers only Chiffchaff and Blackcap found. Common Blue damselflies over the pool close to the wildlife centre. Butterflies: Small White, Large White, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Small Copper & Small Tortoiseshell. The plants in flower last week are the same except that a small patch of Black Medick was found.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-07-1638 species seen around midday. Of note: LITTLE EGRET (1)- Horseshoe Island & Wildlife Centre Creek; Barnacle Goose (1); Red-crested Pochard (1 juv/fem)- from Wildlife Centre (WC); Tufted Duck - including a female with 9 ducklings; Sparrowhawk (1 fem); Lapwing (34) - Horseshoe Island; Song Thrush (1); Blackcap (2); Chiffchaff (1); Bullfinch (pr) - on the WC feeding table; Reed Bunting (1) - Stones Island. Insects: Bumblebees: Red-tailed & Buff-tailed. Damselflies: Common Blue & a Beautiful Demoiselle (Stones Island). This latter species is a first for us! Great views. Butterflies: Green-veined White, Small White and Gatekeeper. Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-07-14A juvenile female Peregrine from Paul Stanley hide at 11.00, female Gadwall, Kingfisher, 2 Buzzards, 2 Linnets, Common Tern, Grey Heron, Tufted Duck broods of 9&12, female/imm Red Crested Pochard. Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-07-14WeBS count for July:Mute Swan 26(plus 5+6+6 cygnets),Canada Goose 334,Barnacle Goose 8,Gadwall 4,Mallard 81,Red-crested Pochard 1,Tufted Duck 113 (plus two broods with one of 10, Little Grebe 17, Great Crested Grebe 18, Cormorant 2,Grey Heron 3,Moorhen 11,Coot 377,Oystercatcher 4,Lapwing 27,Black-headed Gull 8,Common Tern 2(feeding hidden young) and 1 Buzzard.Peter Gibbon
2009-07-10The pair of Common Terns on Flat Island were feeding 1 young this morning. Also the Black-headed Gull pair on this Island have at least 1 chick. 3+ Spotted Flycatchers in Hall Wood. Reed Warbler singing from Hopton Reedbed and from Hopton Pond. Adult Yellow-legged Gull on Sailing Club jetty.Roger Carrington
2009-07-08A Barn Owl was flying around Shiningford Creek area at 10.00 this morning. 2 Little Ringed Plovers in front of sailing club. 5 Linnets over Stones Island. 12+ Bullfinches including 4 juveniles, 2 Common Terns, 2 Ravens, 2 Buzzards, Curlew, Grey Wagtail, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers and female Tufted Duck with 6 very small young. Dave Newcombe
2009-07-04oystercatcher canada geese common tern blackbird dunnock chiffchaff mute swan with six cygnets lapwing coot moorhen tufted duck buzzard black headed gull great crested grebe little grebe house martins crows jackdaws sparrows pied wagtail wood pigeon cormorant swifts magpie tom wareham
2009-07-03No messageClive Ashton
2009-07-01From Sheepwash: Yellow-Legged Gull, 2 Shelduck, 9 Oystercatcher, 5 Raven, female Gadwall, Common Tern, Common Gull. From Wildlife Centre: Pair of Red Crested Pochards, male Wigeon. Little Ringed Plover in front of Sailing club. Dave Newcombe
2009-06-29A pair of Red crested Pochard and a male Wigeon at the Wildlife centre. A Hobby flew over the fields towards Wildlife centre creek. Swift twice went under the eaves of the visitor centre. Clive Ashton
2009-06-17Of note: Mute Swan - including two broods of cygnets, 5 & 6 respectively. Barnacle Goose (3), Oystercatcher (6) - all adults. Redshank (1). Song Thrush (1). Reed Bunting (1). Common Blue damselfly (13) - including one female over the wildlife centre pond. Painted Lady butterfly.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-06-16WLC: 2 Gadwall, 5 Oystercatcher, 1 Redshank, 3 Bullfinch, 2 Common Tern, 4 Cormorant, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 2 Lapwing, c.20 Tree Sparrow (including fledglings) on the bird tables at one time. Also at PS Hide: 9 Mallard ducklings with apparently no mother, 3 Redshank, 2 Raven, and a Treecreeper on the path down. James Owen (ABB)
2009-06-16WeBS count for Sunday 14th June 07.15 to 10.15 hours. 16 Mute Swan,537 Canada Goose,6 Barnacle Goose,47 Mallard,129 Tufted Duck,10 Little Grebe,25 Great Crested Grebe,4 Cormorant,3 Heron,11 Moorhen,68 Coot,8 Oystercatcher,2 Lapwing,4 Redshank,25 Black-headed Gull,2 Common Tern,1 Kingfisher and 1 Sparrowhawk.Peter Gibbon
2009-06-16Fairly quiet on site, of note were; Broods of 3 Moorhen at Sheepwash,and 4 at WLC pond. Single drake Gadwall still at WLC. Common Tern on Flat Island. Pair of Bullfinch on Paul Stanley feeding station.Clive Ashton
2009-06-15Thought you'd be interested to hear that during a walk from Carsington Water I spotted a Red Kite being mobbed by crows! I'm not sure if they've been seen in the area before but thought I'd contact you just in case they haven't. Seeing it made mine and my husband's day! A brilliant sight. Regards, GlenGlenys Torr
2009-06-14A Yellowhammer (red listed) seen at Bullhill Farm Kirk Ireton. The first I have seen in the Parish for years. 54 sightings in the parish in 1988. Appears not to have been recorded in CBC sightings so be aware that they are in the neighbourhood. dave williams
2009-06-113 Black-tailed Godwits on Stones Island, 0730hrs. At least 2 Swifts around the Visitor Centre eaves, breeding would be a first at Carsington. Jay carrying food in Hall Wood, showing breeding. Pair of Reed Bunting feeding young in Hopton Arm Reedbed, and Reed Warbler still singing. Common Tern pair with nest on Flat Island, but hidden behind vegitation when viewed from P S Hide.Roger Carrington
2009-06-10Of note: A pair of Mute Swans with five quite small cygnets. A pair of Gadwall. A female Mallard with four sturdy ducklings. Four Oystercatchers. A Common Tern fishing near the sailing club. A pair of Redshanks behaved as if defending a nest or young. Another observer told us he thought he had seen a very young bird but we did not see it. The Redshank pair attacked a Moorhen and also drove off a Crow and a Jackdaw. They were very aggressive. The pair were active at the water's edge between the wildlife centre and the watersports centre.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-06-10A few highlights for today. At the Wildlife Centre was 3 Gadwall, and a pair of Redshank with one small youngster. A pair of Common Terns, and Oystercatcher with one young on Flat Island. Reed Warbler singing at Hopton End and also a Spotted Flycatcher there. 3 Broods of Mute Swan 3/5/6.Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-06-04Of note: Barnacle Goose (4), Gadwall (pr), Mallard inc. a female with 3 very small ducklings & a female with 3 well grown youngsters, Oystercatcher (2), Redshank (1), Common Tern (2) - sitting on orange buoys near Horseshoe Island, Song Thrush (2): WARBLERS: Sedge, Garden, Willow, Whitethroat, and Blackcap + Chiffchaff; Blue Tits feeding young in box 0305, Great Tits feeding young in box 0304. A Great Tit youngster could occasionally be seen poking its fluffy head out through the hole in the box. Reed Bunting (singing male). Insects: Common Blue damselfly - a mating pair, Buff-tailed Bumblebee, Small White, Large White and Painted Lady butterflies.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-06-01As already stated a Black Tern this morning, also 4 Black Terns to at least 17.15. Reed Warbler briefly singing to the left of Sheepwash Hide. Not many more highlights apart from several Buzzards and a Raven. A pair of Oystercatchers feeding 2 young on flat island, Coots feeding 5 young to the left of Paul Stanley hide and a family of Blue Tits by Sheepwash Hide.Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-06-014 Black Terns now present at 17:30hrs, and the 2 Common Scoters also. Reed Warbler singing at base of Sheepwash spit.Clive Ashton
2009-06-01This morning: 1 Black Tern, at least 2 Common Terns, pair of Common Scoter, Reed Warbler singing in Hopton Arm Reedbed, Pied Flycatcher still singing in Fishtail Creek but distant, 2 Spotted Flycatchers in Hall Wood and 1 in Middle Wood, Treecreeper singing and 1 family party in Hall Wood and another Treecreeper singing in Middle Wood.No name given
2009-05-28Because of half-term and the sunny weather it was very busy on site today. We found 40 species of bird around midday. Of note: Barnacle Goose (4), Mallard - including a female with 5 very well developed ducklings, Common Buzzard being harrassed by Crows near the dam wall, Pheasant (2 heard), Common Tern (2) - on the raft near the Watersports Centre, Swift (2), Great Spotted Woodpecker (1 female) - next to Shiningford Creek, Common Whitethroat (2), Garden Warbler (1), Blackcap(2), Chiffchaff (2), Willow Warbler (2) and Reed Bunting (2 singing males). Butterflies: Orange Tip, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Wall and Red Admiral. Also Water Boatmen and hundreds, perhaps thousands of tadpoles in the pond next to the Wildlife Centre.Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-05-24Millfields Island late afternoon - Barnacle Geese 3 pairs with 4nr goslings between them. Looked like 1+1&2. Swallows nesting inside the wooden furniture house.David & Sue Edmonds
2009-05-22A Whitethroat probably female, near the reed beds by the Hopton crossing.Bob and Gill Smith
2009-05-18Not a lot about today but did get two cracking birds. A Cuckoo flew over Wildlife Centre Creek and perched long enough for me to get my scope on it before disappearing. And then a Hobby flew from the east and headed over Sheepwash hide shortly before 15.00. Also of note was a pair of Barnacle Geese with 4 young on Stones Island, a single Dunlin on Horseshoe Island, a flock of 7 Waders flew across the water which I think were also Dunlin. Dave Newcombe
2009-05-17Belated WeBS count done on Sunday 10th May. Mute Swan 13,Canada Goose 107,Barnacle Goose 14,Mallard 34,Tufted Duck 101,Great Northern Diver 1,Little Grebe 16,Great Crested Grebe 24,Cormorant 1,Grey Heron 1,Moorhen 19,Coot 80,Oystercatcher 12,Little Ringed Plover 2,Lapwing 4,Redshank 5,Common Sandpiper 2,Black-headed Gull 20,Common Tern 2.Peter Gibbon
2009-05-15Quick visit this morning: 8 Turnstone,5 on the raft near Watersports and 3 on the Island. 1 Sanderling on Sailing Club Island 3 Gadwall on Horseshoe Island. 100+ Swallows, and many House Martins/Swifts.Clive Ashton
2009-05-13With the weather being wet and windy today I thought there was a good chance of getting some migrants blown in but I didn't expect it to be quite so good. Spoke to a birder first thing who said he had had about a dozen distant Terns but couldn't quite ID them so they went down as 'Commic Terns' I made my way to Sheepwash and sat there a while before the first flock of Terns flew through....17 Arctics and 1 Black Tern followed by a further 7 Arctics 10 minutes later. Another Black Tern flew through and then 4 more later in the day. Throughout the day there were more flocks including one of 27 Arctics around 17.00. In total there was at least 80 Arctic Terns throughout the day plus 2 Common Terns. Other highlights include 3 or 4 Common Sandpipers, at least 2 Sanderlings, a Turnstone, several Dunlin, 2 Ringed Plovers, at least 2 Little Ringed Plovers, female Yellow Wagtail and a stunning adult Med Gull on Horseshoe Island to end the day. There were also literally 100's of Swifts, Housemartins and Swallows with a fair few Sandmartins too. Dave Newcombe
2009-05-12From WLC: 2 Redshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern, 1 Buzzard over toward pylons on left, 8 House Martins, 6 Swift. From Paul Stanley: 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Dunlin (in plumage), 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Pied Wagtail, 3 Pheasants (1 male), 1 Blackcap, 2 Willow tit, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Sand Martin (north).Richard and Frances Pittam
2009-05-11Pair of Oystercatchers with 2 chicks on Millfields islandBob and Gill Smith
2009-05-09Great Northern Diver (1) - Still present against the dam wall, sailing club end, immediately after the dawn chorus walk.David & Sue Edmonds
2009-05-09DAWN CHORUS WALK :Willow Warbler,Chiffcaff,Garden Warbler,Blackcap and Whitethroat all singing well and showing themselves for the group. Also Robin,Dunnock,Wren,Blackbird,Song Thrush,Great and Blue Tit,Chaffinch,Bullfinch,Woodpigeon,Tree Sparrow and Reed Bunting singing or calling.Great Spotted Woodpecker and Kestrel.Pair of Common Terns trying valiantly to fight for the tern raft against Black-headed Gulls.A Whimbrel and two Dunlin seen from the hide at the end of the walk.Finally the Dunlin and a Redshank were scared off from the west bank by a Fox that slowly made its way along the shoreline looking for food. Peter Gibbon & Roger Carrington
2009-05-08Yesterday afternoon, Phil and Mike from Fisheries towed the tern raft back into position, in front of the Wildlife Centre. Whilst locking up the Wildlife Centre at 18.30, I had a look around and noticed the two Common Terns, which I believe have been hanging around the site for a few days. They were both sat on the new Watersports raft initially, but then one moved over to the tern raft and fought off five Black-headed Gulls. It was then joined by the other tern. Chris Johnstone informed me that they were both still on the raft this morning.Paul Bennett
2009-05-064 Whimbrel and a Common Sandpiper on Horseshoe Island, 2 Dunlin on Stones Island and then 5 on Sheepwash Spit later in the day. Good views of the Great Northern Diver from the Wildlife Centre and then at Lane End Hide. Shelduck, c50 Swifts, Ringed Plover, 2 Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Raven. Lots of Hirundines in the early morning drizzle. Female Teal, Mallard with 8 young and Canada Geese with 6 young. A lot of Warblers in now including Lesser Whitethroat by brick tower, 5+ Common Whitethroats and numerous Chiff Chaffs, Willow Warblers, Blackcaps and Garden Warblers. Also Robin feeding young in Hall Wood. Dave Newcombe/Clive Ashton
2009-05-06Whilst checking the CCTV function in the Wildlife Centre this morning, I found three Whimbrel on the back of Horseshoe Island at 07.20. They were still there at 08.45, but were still in the same place, so frustratingly, could still only be viewed with the camera!(at least we've got one I suppose!). I also had a Yellow Wagtail on Stones Island at 18.40 on Monday 4th.Paul Bennett
2009-05-04Barnacle Goose (7), Mallard ducklings (9), Oystercatcher (3), Redshank (3), Common Gull (1), Garden Warbler (1) - Stones Island, Blackcap (2), Chiffchaff (1).Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-05-04Great Northern Diver (Adult Summer) from Sheepwash Hide late afternoon. 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 3 Redshank, 2 Oystercatcher from Wildlife Centre. 20+ Barnacle Goose, 3 Cackling Canada Goose, 12+ Swift from Stones Island.Paul Thomas
2009-05-02Sheepwash Hide Common Sandpiper (1), GN Diver (1) 4:45pm - 6pm.; Kestrel(1): 6pm Paul Stanley same Diver still well visible, Little Ringed plover (1), Redshank (1). Pied Wagtail (2, see notes)David & Sue Edmonds
2009-05-011 Great Northern Diver,between Lane End and Watersports. 2 Lesser Whitethroat,and 2 Common Whitethroat between Sheepwash and WLC. Butterflies: 30+ Green veined White,3 Orange Tip,2 Brimstone and 1 Peacock.Clive Ashton
2009-04-281 Bar tailed Godwit 1 GN Diver 1 LRP c8 Swift 2 GreylagClive Ashton
2009-04-27Steady rain until late afternoon. Barnacle Goose (10), Oystercatcher (2), Lapwing (2), Curlew (2) - Horseshoe Island; Redshank (3), Sand Martin (1), Swallow (over 50), House Martin (1), Song Thrush (2), Chiffhaff (1), Willow Warbler (5), Bullfinch (pr) and Reed Bunting (1 male).Ray and Margaret Perry
2009-04-27Highlights.... 1 Avocet (Horseshoe), 1 (summer plumage) Bar tailed Godwit (SFord Creek), Lesser Whitethroat (SFord creek), Redshank 2plus pairs displaying etc, 1 pair Mandarin. Steph Hicking
2009-04-25The two Great Northern Divers still present off Fishtail Creek pm.Alan Lewin
2009-04-24Black TernJohn Mowbray
2009-04-23CBC Evening walk of the 21st April: The 2 Great Northern Divers were seen clearly and 1 Shelduck. All the Wagtails seen were pied and summer migrants included House and Sand Martin Swallow in good numbers. Little Ringed Plovers on the yachting launch area were seen plus Oystercatcher, Redshank and 3 Curlew. Before the walk a Snipe was flushed on Stones Island and at 16.30 a Common Tern appeared on a buoy before being found again with the Black-headed Gulls at the Wildlife Centre. Unfortunately by the time the group came to the centre at 20.15 it had gone. Peter Gibbon
2009-04-22A Honey Buzzard circled over the Hopton Inlet from about 12.20-12.30.p.m. having come in from the West. Escorted east by 2 Common Buzzards. Also 1 Dunlin briely on Stones mid-morning and a Garden Warbler singing quietly behind Sheepwash Hide at dinnertime. Both Great Northern Divers still present and a Shelduck of Lane End Hide.rOD kEY
2009-04-212 Great Northern Divers towards the dam early morning.Of note from WLC: 2 Redshank, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 White Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Shelduck, 1 Cackling Goose (among many Canadas and Barnacles). 2 Reed Bunting, 2 Goldfinch, 2 Bullfinch all on bird table.Elsewhere, 1 White Wagtail on Flat Is, many singing Blackcaps between WLC and Sheepwash.James Owen (ABB)
2009-04-21WeBS count for April(7.00-10.00) 1 Great Northern Diver, 31 Great Crested Grebe, 18 Little Grebe, 9 Mute Swan, 98 Canada Goose, 12 Barnacle Goose, 2 Shelduck, 38 Mallard(+10 young), 215 Tufted Duck, 16 Moorhen, 115 Coot, 2 Lapwing, 8 Oystercatcher, 4 Redshank, 5 Little Ringed Plover, 113 Black-headed Gull. Also big numbers of swallow.Peter Gibbon
2009-04-217:45pm Millfields Bay - Mandarin Duck pair M&F.David & Sue Edmonds
2009-04-20Nice day on site. Wall to wall sunshine and a blue sky. OF NOTE: Barnacle Goose (19), Mallard (inc 10 ducklings) - near Sailing Club; Pheasant (1), Oystercatcher (3), Lapwing (2), Redshank (2), House Martin - several around the visitor centre; COMMON WHITETHROAT (1) - in hedge by path next to Shiningford Creek [near post 5G]; Blackcap (4) - 3 singing males & 1 fem; Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler.Ray and Margaret Perry

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