Recent Sightings

DateSightingName
29/04/2026No Terns today but waders were in evidence with 9 species recorded: Bar-tailed Godwit at Watersports, Sanderling on Sailing Club shoreline, 2 Ruff on the back of Horseshoe Island, Curlew heard at Millfields and a Greenshank was around for a while before apparently flying NE. Female Red-crested Pochard and her male common Pochard admirer at WLC, Caspian Gull at Watersports, Yellow Wagtail over Stones, 4 Sedge Warblers and 2 Common Whitethroat behind Millfields Island.Clive Ashton
28/04/2026Another fantastic morning started with 9 Arctic Terns flying in over the dam at 0715hrs. Whilst counting the Terns, at 0745, Alan picked out a dark phase Arctic Skua which flew low up the middle of the res before departing NW. Paul Bennett popped in to see the Arctic Terns and found a Little Tern amongst them at Sheepwash. By 0945hr Arctic Tern numbers had increased to 26, before around half of them had apparently moved on. Large numbers of hirundines all morning and we estimate 400 Sand Martin and 200 Swallow. C6 Pochard, female Red-crested Pochard, 2 female Goldeneye at Sheepwash, 3 Egyptian Geese, 2 Swift, the ringed Caspian Gull, Yellow Wagtail (MR). Little Tern and c14 Arctic Terns still present around 1100hrs when we left site.CA/AHS
27/04/2027From Stones Island this morning, 3 Shoveller, 2 Pochard, 1 Red Crested Pochard, 1 Grey Heron, lots of Sedge and Garden Warblers, 2 Arctic Terns, 1 Common Sandpiper. 1 Dunlin at Millfields and Mediterranean Gull on Sailing Club Island (CA) Peacock butterfly and Orangetips on the wing.AHS
26/04/2026The first-summer Little Gull was still off Watersports this morning. 1 Bar-tailed Godwit and 2 Common Terns there too. Female Red-crested Pochard from WLC. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull still on sailing club island. Single Curlew, Common Sandpiper and Redshank. 3 Swifts from WLC. Whitethroat in WLC creek. 13 singing Sedge Warblers across Stones and WLC creek. 3 Yellow Wagtails.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
25/04/20262 summer plumage Black-necked Grebes around Watersports area, 1 Black Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern, 2 Little Gull (ad, 1s), 3 Shelduck, 2 drake Pochard, Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper, Common Whitethroat at Hopton End, Reed Warbler in WLC reedbed, 3 Pied Flycatcher on east side.Clive Ashton
24/04/2026Following yesterday afternoon's movement, there were another 36 Black Terns this morning, building up between about 06:30 and 08:30, plus 3 Little Gulls (2 adults and one first-summer), all to 11:00 at least. The 2 Bar-tailed Godwits were still around and a Greenshank flew N. 3 Mandarins over the main carpark. 6 Pochard, 2 Teal. 1 Egyptian Goose. More Garden Warblers have arrived, now 6 in the Stones/WLC area. Lesser Whitethroat singing south of Sheepwash. Redstart singing at the top of WLC creek and Clive had a Yellow Wagtail over the WLC.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
24/04/20266 Chiffchaff, 5 Cormorant, 3 Blackcap, 24 Black Tern, 1 Reed bunting, 9 Oystercatcher, 2 Bullfinch, 2 Willow warbler, 8 Sedge warbler, 1Bar tailed Godwit , 2 Little Gull, 2 Male Pochard , 1 Female Red Crested pochard , 15+ Sand Martin,2 LRPDavid Armitt
23/04/2026The 2 Bar-tailed Godwits are still present, 1 each at Watersports (with a damaged wing) and from.WLC. Common Sandpiper and 2 Redshank in the same area. Two female Goldeneye. Reed and Garden Warblers at Hopton end, and Garden on Stones. 3 singing Pied Flycatchers in Hall Wood/Warrington Knob. 3 male Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall and 2 Swifts overhead. Wheatear at Millfields (per A&R).SJR, MW, RPJ, AMD
22/04/2026Best this morning was a beautiful first-summer Little Gull off Watersports. Another surprise was 2 Redwing at Millfields, with a Swift, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Willow Tit and c100 Redpoll in the same area. Around Watersports, 2 Bar-tailed Godwits, Common Sandpiper, Redshank and the pair of Egyptian Geese. Yellow Wagtail (possibly 2) on Stones causeway/dam wall. Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
21/04/2026Another excellent spring morning, with 4 new species for the year: Swift over the dam wall, Yellow Wagtail at the main centre, Garden Warblers at Hopton end and on Stones, and Reed Warbler in Hopton reedbed. One Black-tailed and 2 Bar-tailed Godwits were on Watersports island and later from WLC. First-summer Caspian Gull still. Pink-footed Goose, 2 Teal, 2 Pochard and 4 Goldeneye. 10 Sedge Warblers around Stones island and 1 at WLC. Redstart still in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
19/04/2026Highlight of the monthly wildfowl count was a drake Ring-necked Duck in Brown Ale Bay at around 08:50, relocated off Big Island at 10:20. Other wildfowl: 194 Canada, 34 Greylag (plus a brood of 5), 1 Pink-foot, 2 Egyptian, 2 Mute Swan, 33 Gadwall, 70 Mallard (plus a brood of 12), 3 Pochard, 47 Tufted, 5 Goldeneye, 4 Moorhen, 18 Coot, 4 Little Grebe, 36 GCGrebe, 11 Oystercatcher, 1 Lapwing, 2 Common Sandpiper, 1 Redshank, 2 Dunlin, 6 Cormorant (a total of 480 waterbirds as opposed to 824 in April last year) Also: first-summer Mediterranean and Caspian Gulls at Watersports, 100+ Sand Martins, male Whitethroat at Hopton end, male Pied Flycatcher still at Warrington Knob and Redstart in WLC fields. Wheatear on the dam wall (per Mick W).Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
18/04/2026This morning, 2 Egyptian Geese, drake Pochard, 3 Common Sandpipers off Stones causeway, first-summer Yellow-legged Gull, 3 Mediterranean Gulls (second-summer and a pair of adults), Common Tern at Watersports, Willow Tit on the Tail Bay path, 3 Skylarks over, 100++ Sand Martins, male Redstart in WLC fields still, 1 Redpoll.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
17/04/2026Early evening - 2 Med Gulls (a 3cy and 2cy) in or around the BHGull colony at the rear of Sailing Club Island, best viewed from the second bench along the dam wall, albeit distant. Also a German ringed Caspian Gull (2cy) on the Watersports pontoon; Pink-footed Goose and LRPlover on Watersports Island.Richard Lowe
17/04/2026Quieter than yesterday. The second-summer Mediterranean Gull was still present, Redstart still singing in WLC fields and 2 new Sedge Warblers, on Millfields island and at WLC.SJR, CA, AHS
16/04/2025A decent morning, starting with a male Pied Flycatcher singing in Warrington Knob, just south of Middle Wood on the east side (first of the year). Single Arctic Tern and Whimbrel past Stones island (also both the first of the year), and a Common Sandpiper was on the shore. Drake Pochard off Watersports. 2 male Redstarts (Hall Wood and WLC fields).SJR, CA, MW
14/04/2026Caspian Gull (2cy) on Watersports pontoon late afternoon - (yellow colour ring on left leg).Richard Lowe
14/04/2026The second-summer Mediterranean Gull flew across sailing club bay mid-morning. Common Tern at Watersports. Drake Pochard. 4 Goldeneye. At Hopton end and Hall/Middle Woods, 9 Coal Tit, 5 Willow Warbler, 17 Blackcap, 6 Nuthatch, 8 Treecreeper, 1 Redstart. Another Redstart in WLC fields. 3 Sedge Warblers around Stones.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
13/04/2026Late afternoon visit: second-summer Mediterranean Gull among the Black-heads on the back of sailing club island, as reported by Richard L a couple of days ago. Pink-footed Goose past Stones. 3 singing Sedge Warblers.Simon Roddis
11/04/20263 Little and 4 Common Terns were off Stones island from 07:55 to around 08:15 this morning. Good conditions for terns, clearly. 20+ Barnacle Geese. Second-summer Caspian Gull again off Watersports. Little Egret at Millfields. Big increase in hirundines, c100 Swallows, 300 Sand Martins and at least 4 House Martins. Sedge Warbler again on Stones.Simon Roddis
10/04/20262 Pochard, 1 female Red-Crested Pochard, 8 Gadwall, 6 Oystercatcher, 7 Chiffchaff, 1 Little Grebe, 30+ Sand Martin, 20+ Swallow, 1 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap , 4 Long tailed Tit, 4 House Martin, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Jay , 3 Willow Warbler, 2 BullfinchDave Armitt
10/04/2026A Sedge Warbler singing on Stones island this morning is the earliest ever arrival here by 2 days. 2 House Martins also on Stones, and 100+ Sand Martins and c20 Swallows. Female Red-crested Pochard again consorting with a male Common Pochard off Stones causeway. 70 Common Gulls late morning, and a second-summer Caspian Gull off Watersports. Little Egret over Hopton end early morning. Redstart singing above WLC creek again and a brood of 3 Mallard in the fields (first I've seen this year). 1 Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
08/04/2026A very decent morning: a Sandwich Tern flew past Stones island at 08:15 and the Jack Snipe was again on Watersports island from 07:30 to at least 09:30. A Redstart was singing at the top of WLC creek and a female Wheatear was in the fields. Wildfowl included 3 Shelduck, female Red-crested Pochard, 2 drake Pochard, 4 Goldeneye and the pair of Egyptian Geese. A Curlew flew over Stones. First-summer Caspian Gull at sailing club. Willow Warblers and Blackcaps in increasing numbers.SJR, CA, AHS
07/04/2026A Jack Snipe bobbed away on Watersports island this morning, from 07:30 to 09:10 at least, with a Common Snipe almost adjacent. 4 Shoveler were out in the middle of the res. Tawny Owl calling at Penn Carr. Total of 33 Ravens, including 30 over the pastures; the presence of a couple of Buzzards and a Red Kites suggests that there might be a dead animal up there attracting their attention. 4+ Willow Warblers dotted around, and 3 Redpolls over.SJR, CA, MW
06/04/2026The pair of Egyptian Geese were on sailing club island early morning. 6 Goldeneye. 2 Curlew and 2 Herring Gulls flew S. 5 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing. c60 Sand Martins and 3 Swallows off Sheepwash. Willow Warblers singing near the main entrance and at Millfields. 60 Fieldfare flew N (flocks of 24 and 36).Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
05/04/2026Following are the species recorded during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walks (10am-noon; Stones Island to the Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Cormorant, Black-headed Gull, Magpie, Mallard, Chiffchaff, Coot, Tufted Duck, Oystercatcher, Carrion Crow, Egyptian Goose, Robin, Greylag Goose, Black-tailed Godwit, Sand Martin, Canada Goose, Moorhen, Woodpigeon, Gt Crested Grebe, Pochard, Gadwall, Willow Tit, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Wren, Goldeneye, Pied Wagtail, Redshank, DunnockGary Atkins
05/04/2026A fly-through Greenshank was this morning's highlight. c80 Fieldfare also flew NW. 30 Sand Martins and 5+ Swallows off Stones/WLC. 2 Egyptian Geese, 4 Pochard and 2 Teal. Snipe at Paul Stanley hide. Barn Owl at Hopton reedbed first thing, and 15 Ravens over. Willow Tit at WLC. Black-tailed Godwit also reported on Watersports island (per Lorna).SJR, CA, MW
04/04/2026The first Willow Warbler of the year was singing near the main centre mid-morning, wonderful to hear. Other bit and pieces included 2 Shelduck, 3 redhead Goosander, 1 Egyptian Goose, 2 Pochard, 3 Redshank, 3 Herring Gulls, 1 Little Egret, 10 Sand Martin, 2 Swallows, 4 Blackcap, 1 Redpoll.SJR, MW, CA
02/04/2026A winter-plumage Turnstone was on Watersports island at 07:30 but had gone by 09:00. 3 Egyptian Geese at Millfields/Watersports. 1 Pink-footed Goose. The drake Red-crested Pochard was still at Millfields, hanging around with a group of Mallard. A light northerly movement of c.70 Woodpigeons. 21 Buzzards in a 360 scan from the dam wall late morning. Willow Tit at WLC. 10 Sand Martins.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
01/04/2026A drake Red-crested Pochard was at Millfields this morning, and a Little Egret flew S past Stones. Pair of Egyptian Geese still hanging around Watersports island. 6 Sand Martin and 1 Swallow. 2 Redpoll (over Millfields and Stones).SJR, CA, MW
31/03/2026Perimeter counts this morning: 124 Chiffchaffs, 3 Blackcap, 2 Egyptian Geese, 4 Pochard, 2 Goldeneye, 33 Pheasant, 4 Stock Dove, 17 Oystercatcher, 4 Jay, 32 Magpies, 4 Raven, 15 Coal Tit, 4 Willow, 135 Blue, 65 Great, 8 Long-tailed, 8 Sand Martin, 2 Goldcrest, 124 Wren, 12 Nuthatch, 8 Treecreeper, 32 Song Thrush, 9 Mistle, 1 Redwing, 82 Blackbird, 177 Robin, 50 Dunnock, 1 Grey Wagtail, 12 Pied, 9 Meadow Pipits, 6 Chaffinch, 10 Bullfinch, 3 Greenfinch, 2 Redpoll, 29 Goldfinch, 18 Siskin, 2 Reed Buntings.Simon Roddis
31/03/2026An adult Kittiwake flew south down the east side, 2 Egyptian Geese, Pair Mandarin past Stones, redhead Goosander, drake Pochard, 3 Sand Martin, Blackcap singing on Stones, Willow Tit WLC.CA/AHS
30/03/2026Highlight this morning was a Sandwich Tern which flew past Watersports at 10:18. Not seen again but Clive might have heard it earlier. Pair of Egyptian Geese again. 2 Teal. 3 Pochard. 3 Redshank. Pair of Peregrines over the north end. Pair of Willow Tits near WLC. 5 Swallows. 1 Fieldfare in the main carpark, and Alan had a Redpoll on Stones.SJR, CA, MW, AHS
28/03/2026Probably 5 Swallows and 2 Sand Martins were off Stones/Watersports late morning. Drake Pintail from WLC. Pink-footed Goose off Stones. At least one pair of Egyptian Geese and 27 Barnacles. 2 Willow Tits. c70 Fieldfare, 30 Starling and Woodpigeons flushed by a Sparrowhawk north of Fishtail. 2 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall.SJR, CA, MW
26/03/2026Along the east side, Hopton to Millfields, this morning: 6 Willow Tits, 42 Chiffchaffs, 1 Blackcap, 9 Mistle Thrushes, 1 Crossbill, 2 Egyptian Geese. Elsewhere, a Swallow (first of the year here) past the main centre, 4 Sand Martin, 32 Barnacle Geese, several more Chiffchaffs on Stones.SJR, CA, AHS, RPJ, AMD
22/03/2026March WeBS count: 5 Mute Swan, 189 Canada Geese, 37 Greylag Geese, 2 Egyptian Geese, 42 Great Crested Grebe, 5 Little Grebe, 121 Mallard, 6 Teal, 20 Gadwall, 1 Mandarin, 45 Tufted Duck, 5 Pochard, 9 Goldeneye, 7 Moorhen, 23 Coot, 8 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 10 Oystercatcher, 4 Redshank, 1 Grey Wagtail. 2 Blackcap singing at Hopton end. CA/JBClive Ashton/ Jon Bradley
20/03/2026The first Little Ringed Plover of the year dropped into sailing club this morning, and a Little Egret flew over. The over-wintering Common Sandpiper was on the dam wall at Millfields. Drake Shoveler on Horseshoe island. First-winter Caspian and second-winter Yellow-legged Gulls off Watersports. Tawny Owl calling at Sheepwash first thing. Willow Tit at WLC. 12 Siskin over Stones.SJR, CA, MW
20/03/20266 Chiffchaff, 2 Great spotted woodpecker, 7 Goldeneye, 7 Oystercatcher , 6 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 9 Greylag goose, 1 Coal Tit, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Willow tit , 10 CormorantDave Armitt
19/03/2026Clive had 2 Sand Martins past Stones this morning, and 4 Shoveler were off Sheepwash. 22 Chiffchaffs between Hopton end and Stones. 93 Woodpigeons N. 12 Buzzards in the air from the dam wall. Pair of Willow Tits at Lane End and 1 singing in WLC creek (per Mike R). 1 Linnet on the dam wall and 2 Redpoll over WLC area.Simon Roddis
18/03/2026Slightly less quiet than the last few days but still awaiting migrants. Pair of Shelduck off Millfields and a pair of Mandarin flew through Tail Bay. 11 Goldeneye, 10 of them off Sheepwash. Tiny bit of movement involving 156 Woodpigeons N and 33 S, plus 13 Chaffinch N. Singing Skylark and 5 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
13/03/2026A few bits and pieces this morning: 31 Barnacle Geese, the pair of Egyptian Geese again, drake Wigeon, Curlew, c5,000 Black-headed Gulls early morning, several Buzzards and Red Kites enjoying the breeze, 70 Starlings NW, 35 Siskin in WLC creek and 2 Crossbills over.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
11/03/2026Best this morning were the 2 Egyptian Geese again, fly-over Shelduck, first-winter Caspian Gull, 30 Barnacle Geese, 230 Woodpigeons N, 4 Curlew, 3 Redshank around Horseshoe island, Willow Tit singing on Stones.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
10/03/2026Highlight this morning was a Sand Martin from Sheepwash hide, first of the year as far as I'm aware. 29 Barnacle Geese at Watersports. Pair of Egyptian Geese again. Redhead Goosander flew up the res and maybe the same bird later past Stones. 830 Woodpigeons N (and 15 S). Green Woodpecker calling at Sheepwash. Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew and 2 Redshank on Horseshoe island. 10 Buzzards in the air.Simon Roddis, Ken Rome
08/03/2026Afternoon visit: adult Caspian Gull from Lane End hide. 15 Herring Gulls and adult Great Black-back from Stones. Female Red-crested Pochard off Stones causeway (found earlier by Adam Saunders). 2 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon and 40 Redwing at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
07/03/202627 Barnacle geese flew in, landed in field other side of road to dam wall around 8.30 am.Matthew Birkin
07/03/2026Another eventful morning, with highlights of 11 drake Common Scoter, 8 Kittiwakes and 70 passage Wigeon out on the water off Stones island. 2 Shoveler still at Sheepwash.SJR, CA, AHS
06/03/2026After a couple of hours looking for Willow Tits (4 found), a walk onto Stones island proved worthwhile when a Bar-tailed Godwit flew S and a scan of the water revealed a beautiful summer plumage Black-necked Grebe. 36 Great Crested Grebes (highest count since last September) suggests a small arrival - perhaps the Black-necked came in with them. 3 Chiffchaffs in Tail Bay. 2 Shoveler and 2 Wigeon at Sheepwash (per Alan S).Simon Roddis
02/03/2026Highlights this morning were a Barn Owl at Hopton reedbed early morning, a Great Egret around Horseshoe/Watersports and 2 Egyptian Geese which flew down the res late morning and settled on Watersports island (still there at 11:40). Plus 28 Barnacle Geese, 8 Curlew, Snipe at Hopton reedbed, first-winter Yellow-legged Gull off Stones island, Willow Tit at WLC, 3+ Chiffchaffs.Simon Roddis
01/03/2026Following are the species noted during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island to Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Great Tit, Buzzard, Blackbird, Cormorant, Coot, Mallard, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Black-headed Gull, Common Gull, Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Teal, Great-crested Grebe, Blue Tit, Dunnock, Oystercatcher, Robin, Carrion Crow, Goldfinch, Pied Wagtail, Woodpigeon, Chaffinch, Barnacle Goose, Magpie, Curlew, Grey Heron, Moorhen, Gadwall, WrenGary Atkins
01/03/20262 Chiffchaffs on Stones island this morning. Redshank and 2 Pochard at Paul Stanley hide. 12 Goldeneye. 29 Barnacle Geese at Watersports. At least 10 Buzzards in the air from Millfields late morning, and 2 Skylarks on the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
28/02/2026Perimeter counts this morning: 3 Chiffchaffs, 14 Coal Tits, 202 Blue, 73 Great, 3 Willow, 13 Long-tailed, 3 Nuthatch, 6 Treecreeper, 2 Goldcrest, 81 Wren, 50 Song Thrush, 7 Mistle, 80 Blackbird, 20 Redwing, 201 Robin, 66 Dunnock, 27 Chaffinch, 8 Bullfinch, 3 Greenfinch, 1+ Crossbill, 21 Goldfinch, 10 Siskin. Maybe as many as 20 Oystercatchers, difficult to keep track of!Simon Roddis
27/02/2026At Carsi this morning, the Common Sandpiper was on Watersports island, Redshank and Kingfisher from Paul Stanley hide, 9 Goldeneye in Brown Ale Bay, singing Willow Tit and 4 Redpoll near Lane End and a finch flock between Sheepwash and Lane End comprising 16 Chaffinch, 16 Goldfinch and 3 Greenfinch.Simon Roddis
26/02/20263 Great Spotted Woodpecker , 12 Long tailed Tit, 1 Nuthatch, 20 Redwing, 7 Gadwall, 16 Teal , 3 Grey Heron, 3 Little grebe, 7 Oystercatcher, 4 Female Goldeneye, 4 Male Goldeneye, 2 Pied wagtail, 4 Barnacle goose, 1 Buzzard, 1Coal titDave Armitt
26/02/2026Single Shelduck around Horseshoe/Watersports this morning. Pair of Barnacle Geese. 28 Tufted. 6+ Goldeneye. 12 Curlew, including 10 at sailing club early on. 1 Woodcock and 1 Tawny Owl at Hopton end first thing. 285 Lesser Black-backs flew N over Hopton as they came out of the roost. Pair of Willow Tits (one singing) south of Lane End. 50 Redwing, mostly at Paul Stanley/Sheepwash. 20 Chaffinch, including a flock of 14 NE.Simon Roddis
23/02/2026870 Woodpigeons flew N 0730-0830 this morning, plus 5 Skylarks and a Great Egret. 34 Barnacle Geese at WLC and Willow Tit nearby. 14 Curlew in WLC fields. Redshank and 5 Snipe from Paul Stanley hide. 3 Redpoll over Stones causeway.Simon Roddis
21/02/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 224 Canada, 34 Barnacle, 28 Greylag, 44 Gadwall, 16 Wigeon, 226 Mallard, 187 Teal, 7 Pochard, 7 Tufted, 10 Goldeneye, 5 Moorhen, 75 Coot, 6 Little Grebe, 24 GCGrebe, 10 Oystercatcher, 15 Lapwing, 1 Snipe, 1 Redshank, 7 Cormorant. 7 Skylarks over Stones.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
20/02/2026Around Carsi this morning, 34 Barnacle Geese, 5 Curlew off Stones causeway early on, Common Sandpiper from WLC, a first-winter Mediterranean Gull from Sheepwash hide late morning, Water Rail and Redshank at Paul Stanley hide (AHS), Willow Tit singing near WLC, 50 Redwing, 10 Crossbills SW over WLC creek mid-morning.SJR, CA, AHS
19/02/2026Clive pulled another rabbit out of the hat this morning in the shape of a Grey Partridge on Stones island, the first at Carsi since November 2011. However, a search between the WLC and Shiningford for Tuesday's Bittern was to no avail. The Common Sandpiper was still on Horseshoe island and a male Sparrowhawk posed beautifully there for a while. At least 22 GCGrebes suggests a small increase, as you'd expect as we approach spring.SJR, CA
17/02/2026Just 350 Woodpigeons and 120 Starlings N this morning. A Great Egret flew S down the res mid-morning and a Shelduck flew in at the same time. 34 Barnacle Geese. 8 Curlews at sailing club early morning, and 3 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing. 15 Linnets again on Stones.SJR, CA, MW
16/02/2026Credit is due to Clive for most of this morning's birds: an adult Kittiwake from Stones island late morning, last seen heading towards Millfields; 1,750 Woodpigeons N; 32 Barnacle Geese; 7 Curlew, the Common Sandpiper and 15 Linnets around Horseshoe island; Peregrine over Shiningford and a Willow Tit at WLC.CA, MW, SJR
14/02/2026On this fine sunny morning, 4 Pintail (1m,3f) were at Sheepwash late morning, only 10 Pochard, 9 Goldeneye, 12+ Oystercatchers, Redshank from Paul Stanley hide still, Curlew down the east side, adult Great Black-back, pair of Peregrines on a pylon at Shiningford, drumming Great Spotted Woodpecker in Hall Wood, Willow Tit at WLC. Surprisingly little moving, although there was a report of 60 Pink-footed Geese over.Simon Roddis
12/02/2026A bit of movement this morning, virtually everything heading N or NE: 820 Woodpigeons, 2 Stock Doves, 120 Pink-footed Geese, 166 Starlings, 5 Skylarks, 1 Curlew, 6 Lesser Black-backs. At ground/water level, 29 Greylags, 2 Pintail, 51 Pochard, 13 Goldeneye, 69 Coot, 15 GCGrebe, Woodcock at Hopton end, the Common Sandpiper back at Millfields, adult Great Black-back, Willow Tit at WLC, and in the air 6 Buzzards and 6 Ravens (3 pairs).Simon Roddis
11/02/2026Just a few bits and bobs this morning: 3 Shoveler still at Sheepwash, female Pintail off Stones, single Snipe and Redshank from Paul Stanley hide and a Skylark over, 1 (maybe 2) Willow Tit at WLC, 2 Meadow Pipits over Stones causeway, 2 Reed Buntings at the Millfields feeders.Simon Roddis
10/02/2026A bit same old, same old this morning: Common Sandpiper still from WLC, Redshank from Paul Stanley hide, 3 Shoveler and 4 Pintail at Sheepwash, 103 Pochard plus the hybrid, adult Great Black-backed Gull, 2 Willow Tits near WLC. One day there'll be a change in the weather and, hopefully, the birds. One day...SJR, CA, AHS
09/02/2026The Common Sandpiper was still on Horseshoe island late morning and the Redshank at Sheepwash. 115 Lapwing. 104 Pochard plus the male Aythya hybrid. 3 Shoveler. Drake and at least 3 female Pintail. 10 Goldeneye. 103 Coot. 43 Woodpigeons N. Adult Great Black-back and 2 immature Herring Gulls. Pair of Willow Tits on the WLC feeders and another pair near Lane End. Treecreeper singing at WLC and Red Bunting almost singing at Paul Stanley.SJR, CA, AHS
08/02/2026Highlight of a couple of hours late afternoon was a Barn Owl hunting to the left of Sheepwash hide, flushing the nearby ducks, which included 3 Shoveler and a female Pintail. Redhead Goosander at Millfields. 20+ Barnacle Geese beyond the top of WLC creek. Willow Tit at WLC (the volunteers had 2 there this morning). 100 Redwing at the top of WLC creek.Simon Roddis
07/02/2026The Common Sandpiper was on Watersports island this morning. 10 Oystercatchers. 4 Shoveler (3m,1f) at Sheepwash/Millfields. 4 Pintail (drake at Sheepwash, 3f from Paul Stanley hide. 8 Goldeneye. 35 Barnacle Geese eventually settled in the overflow carpark. Adult Great Black-backed Gull. 20 Linnet on Stones island.SJR, CA, AHS
05/02/2025The drake Pintail and 3 Shoveler (2m,1f) were at Sheepwash this morning, and 5 Goldeneye (4m,1f) and the Redshank from Paul Stanley hide. Common Sandpiper on Horseshoe island in front of the WLC. c35 Barnacle Geese over WLC creek. 125 Rooks N past Sheepwash early morning.Simon Roddis
03/02/2026Best this morning was a flock of 8 Pintail briefly past Stones island. 36 Barnacle Geese. At least 136 Pochard (quite possibly more as Clive had nearly 100 at Sheepwash/Brown Ale Bay while I only counted 65 there). 3 Shoveler from PS hide. 8 Oystercatcher.18 Lapwing. 1 Redshank still. Willow Tit at WLC. 35 Linnet on Stones.SJR, CA, MW
01/01/2-26From Paul Stanley Hide (12.30-13.15): 5 Goldeneye (4m, 1f), 8 Lapwing, Redshank, 20+ Wigeon, a lot of Teal, 3 Long-tailed Tit, Coal TitGary Atkins
01/02/2026Birds seen, through the mist, at today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island - Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Blue Tit, Carrion Crow, Blackbird, Canada Goose, Barnacle Goose, Teal, Common Gull, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Coot, Little Grebe, Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Robin, Song Thrush, Magpie, Cormorant, Goldfinch, Redwing, Dunnock, Woodpigeon, Goldeneye, Bullfinch, Pheasant, Gadwall, Willow Tit, Great Tit, Wren, Gt Crested Grebe, Moorhen, Chaffinch, Pied WagtailGary Atkins
01/02/2026Very foggy this morning. Woodcock, Snipe and Tawny Owl at Hopton end first thing. 133 Pochard, most of them at Sheepwash, and the drake Pintail still. 5 Oystercatchers. Redshank from PS hide. 2 Herring Gulls at Sheepwash. 15 Linnet at Millfields.Simon Roddis
28/01/2026Ad hoc wildfowl count this morning, slightly hampered by a bit of mist around the edge first thing: 274 Canada, 29 Barnacle, 8 Greylags, 115 Gadwall, 102 Wigeon, 328 Mallard, 1 Pintail, 746 Teal, 114 Pochard, 22 Tufted, 14 Goldeneye, 115 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 5 Oystercatcher, 31 Lapwing, Common Sandpiper still at Millfields, 1 Redshank, 1 Snipe, 11 Cormorant. Male Peregrine past WLC. 200 Woodpigeons N and 160 Starlings W.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
25/01/2026This morning, a pair of Shelduck (presumably the same birds as yesterday) flew N then swam back past Paul Stanley hide; drake Pintail, Redshank and redhead Goosander also from Paul Stanley and 30 Siskin in the woodland; Oystercatchers at Millfields and WLC; 2 Willow Tits at WLC, and a male Aythya hybrid, very likely the presumed Pochard x Ferruginous Duck that has been here before.Simon Roddis
23/01/2026Just a few bits and pieces this morning: Common Sandpiper still at Millfields, 2 Oystercatchers on Horseshoe island, first-winter Yellow-legged Gull at sailing club, drake Pintail from Paul Stanley hide (AHS), 60 Pochard, 30 Linnets on Stones, 40 Siskin.SJR, CA, AHS
21/01/2026The Common Sandpiper was still at Millfields this morning, while an adult Caspian Gull off the sailing club was the first of the year here, I believe. Oystercatcher at Watersports and 2 Willow Tits between there and WLC.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
19/01/2026Very murky this morning but there was a Black-tailed Godwit on Sheepwash spit, Redshank and drake Shoveler from Paul Stanley hide, Oystercatcher at Watersports, Willow Tits at WLC and Millfields, and Common Sandpiper still at Millfields.Simon Roddis
17/01/2026I've done the monthly wildfowl count this afternoon as the forecast for tomorrow isn't great: 272 Canada, 12 Greylags, 3 Egyptian Geese (on Sheepwash spit before flying NE at 15:12), 123 Gadwall, 112 Wigeon, 461 Mallard, 1 Pintail, 936 Teal, 36 Pochard, 24 Tufted, 9 Goldeneye, 4 Moorhen, 145 Coot, 6 Little Grebes, 21 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 13 Lapwing, 1 Common Sandpiper (presumably the bird that was around in December), 21 Cormorant. In the gull roost off Stones island late afternoon, c2,000 each of Common and Black-headed Gulls, 400 Lesser Black-backs, 2 Herring.Simon Roddis
16/01/202660 Wigeon,4 Goldeneye, 3 Little Grebe, 1 Pochard, 40 Teal, 32 Gadwall, 1 Goldfinch,1 Kestrel, 6 Long Tailed Tit, 1 Treecreeper, 11 Cormorant, 2 Fieldfare, 1 Redwing, 2 Buzzard, 2 Greenfinch, 1 Peregrine, 30 Linnet , 50 LapwingDave Armitt
16/01/2026Slightly better conditions than yesterday, with the fog lifting mid-morning. The drake Pintail was off Sheepwash. 95 Pochard. The Oystercatcher still, 34 Lapwing and 1 Snipe. 2 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end first thing. Willow Tit at WLC. Winter thrushes included at least 330 Redwing and 190 Fieldfares (270 and 150 respectively through Hopton early morning).Simon Roddis
15/01/2026Difficult to see much in thick fog this morning but there were 2 Woodcock and 3 calling Tawny Owls at Millfields first thing, Willow Tit at WLC, Oystercatcher again at Watersports/Horseshoe island, Redshank in Brown Ale Bay, and Clive had a Pink-footed Goose among the Greylags.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
14/02/2026Clive found the first Oystercatcher of the year at Watersports this morning, a relatively early first date. 29 Lapwing. 51 Pochard. Adult Great Black-backed Gull. Male Peregrine on its favoured pylon then over Sheepwash and Hall Wood. Willow Tit at WLC. Skylark S over the main centre. 10 Linnet from the WLC. 4 Crossbills in the top of Hall Wood.SJR, CA, AHS, MW
12/01/2026c35 Barnacle Geese over WLC late morning and 2 Goosander N over Hopton end first thing. 5 Goldeneye. Drake Pintail reported at WLC but I missed it. 45 Woodpigeons N. 124 Coot. Skylark N over Stones late morning. Mistle Thrush singing at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
10/01/2026Drake Pintail and Redshank from Paul Stanley hide this morning. A Pink-footed Goose was among the Greylags at Watersports and 36 Barnacle Geese from WLC. 32 Lapwing. 47 Fieldfare flew N (obviously!). 12+ Meadow Pipits.Simon Roddis
06/01/2026Yesterday's 3 Curlew were still at sailing club this morning, and a total of 51 Lapwing there and in Brown Ale Bay. Shelduck off Stones (and later Sheepwash) and redhead Goosander at Millfields. 92 Pochard. 5 Shoveler. Full compliment of Barnacle Geese. 106 Coot. 8 Little Grebes. Willow Tit at WLC. 15 Meadow Pipits at Sheepwash and 12 at WLC.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
05/01/2026A very decent afternoon visit: 2 adult White-fronted Geese were among c200 Greylags between Lane End and Sheepwash, plus one Pink-foot. A Little Egret flew past Paul Stanley hide. 2 adult Mute Swans. Drake Shoveler from WLC. 38 Pochard. 100 Coot in Brown Ale Bay at dusk. 30 Lapwing. Clive's 3 Curlew were still at sailing club. 800 Common Gulls off Stones by 15:30. Little Owl again in WLC fields, being mobbed by Blackbirds and Blue Tits. 11 Meadow Pipits toughing it out.Simon Roddis
04/01/2026Species recorded during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-WLC-WLC Creek): House Sparrow, Pintail, Lapwing, Little Grebe, Black-headed Gull, Teal, Pied Wagtail, Goldeneye, Wigeon, Mallard, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Canada Goose, Coot, Robin, Mute Swan, Gt Crested Grebe, Blue Tit, Greylag Goose, Moorhen, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Dunnock, Wren, Goldfinch, Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Redwing, Blackbird, Treecreeper, Pheasant, Great Tit, Snipe, Meadow Pipit, Gadwall, Willow Tit, Long-tailed TitGary Atkins
02/01/2026Juvenile GNDiver still north of Millfields this morning. Woodcock at Hopton end first thing, and Redshank later. 3 Grey Heron in Brown Ale Bay. 100 Woodpigeons NE, 40 SW. 3 Fieldfare and 2 Redpoll over Millfields.Simon Roddis
31/12/2025Juvenile GNDiver still off the east side north of Millfields. A bit of late movement, with 1,400 Woodpigeons and 192 Fieldfare heading N (Fieldfare can be tricky to see here in December so quite surprising to see such a decent number). 250 Starlings W might just have been heading out from their roost. c35 Barnacle Geese in WLC fields. Great Egret at Sheepwash. Peregrine having its breakfast on Horseshoe island. 2 Willow Tits at WLC.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
30/12/2025Afternoon visit: the juvenile GNDiver was off Millfields, female Common Scoter from Stones (and later from Sheepwash) and a Great Egret, last seen flying into Green Pond, presumably to roost. Little Owl called in WLC fields mid afternoon. Pair of Peregrines perched on Sheepwash spit and then over Brown Ale Bay at dusk. Willow Tit at WLC. Single Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls. 70 Linnets on Stones. Over BABay late afternoon, 390 Redwing, 55 Fieldfare and 26 Chaffinch.Simon Roddis


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
2005-12-227+Goldfinchs and 2 Lesser Redpoll in trees next to path to Wildlife Centre 5 Wigeon-near the wooden walkway on the way to the Wildlife Centre 1 Gadwall-near Horseshoe Island 2 Pochard-left of Wildlife Centre 1 Redshank-far left bank from Wildlife CentreSam Pedley
2005-12-26Noted by Chloe Pye at the Paul Stanley Hide: 2 Black-necked Grebe showing well most of the day in the bay at the front of the hide Great Spotted Woodpecker, Treecreeper, Dunnock, Robin, Grey Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Blue Tit. Goosander, Goldeneye, Mute Swan, Coot, Gadwall, Ruddy Duck, Wigeon, Teal, Pochard, Moorhen, Lapwing, Cormorant, Black-headed Gull. Also in the area: Mediterranean Gull, Willow Tit, Little Grebe, Tufted Duck, Redshank. The Carsington Bird Club Boxing Day walk produced 37 species. Birds seen but not included in the above list: Kestrel, Greenfinch, Song Thrush, Blackbird, Robin, Redpoll, Siskin, Magpie, Tree and House Sparrow, Goldcrest, Bullfinch, Dunnock, Long-tailed Tit, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Snipe and Canada Goose..
2006-12-30Quiet, usual wildfowl plus Black-necked Grebe (Paul Stanley Hide)1 adult Yellow-legged Gull in roost 150+ Common Gulls (Sheepwash).Steph Hicking
2006-12-26highlights:- W.Centre: Blackcap (Horeshoe Island), Kestrel, 2xRedshank Paul Stanley: Black-necked Grebe, Great Northern Diver, 27 chaffinch, 1xRedshank Millfields: Great Northern diver Richard, Frances and Ken Pittam
2006-12-24W. Centre Redshank, Teal (no Green-winged), Wigeon, Cormorant, Great Northern Diver, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Canada Geese, Barnacle Geese, 2 Bullfinch, Redwing, Robin Sheepwash 'Grey' Coot, Grey Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, Teal, Wigeon, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black-headed Gull, 5 Goldeneye (4 drake,1 duck), Little Grebe, 4 Bullfinch (car park) Paul Stanley Black-necked Grebe, Kingfisher, Wigeon, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Teal, LBB Gull, BH Gull, Common Gull Richard and Frances Pittam
2006-12-22Highlights: Wildlife Centre Bullfinch, 2 Redshank, 3 Barnacle Geese, 1 Male Hen Harrier (over boat shop/visitor centre) Paul Stanley 2 Goldcrest, 1 Black-necked Grebe, 1 Treecreeper, 2 Willow Tits, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Grt Spotted Woodpecker(m)Richard and Frances Pittam
2006-12-223 Wrens - In front of Wildlife Centre 3 Redshanks - from Wildlife Centre 1 Goldeneye - Female from Wildlife Centre 1 Hen Harrier - Male flew over Horsehoe Island 1 Great Northern Diver - Very distant over the back of Horseshoe IslandSam Pedley
2006-12-21Green-winged Teal(WLC) and Black-necked Grebe (Paul Stanley Hide) and 1 Great Northern Diver (Lane Ends) reported on Birdnet Pager system today.Steph' Hicking
2006-12-20The drake Green Winged Teal briefly from Paul Stanley Hide at 2.15 p.m. and the Black Necked Grebe was also showing well from here. An adult Caspian Gull was on Flat Island up to at least 2.45 p.m. The adult Ring Billed Gull again in the roost at 3.40.p.m. along with 3 Yellow Legged Gulls-an adult and 2 first winters. At least 2 juvenile Great Northern Divers still present-1 near the dam by the sailing club, the other showing well from the Wildlife Centre. Also 1 was near Sheepwash about 2.45 p.m. Also present 4 Barnacle Geese from the Wildlife Centre and a Willow Tit near here, 3 Shoveler from Sheepwash and at least 5 Goldeneye and 3 Redshank around the reservoirRod Key
2006-12-1836 species of bird seen around midday. Main observation points: Stones Island (SI) and from the Wildlife Centre (WC). Very quiet on site. Quite misty to start with, then cleared up. Of note: Snipe (8) - Horseshoe Island; Redshank (3) - one SI & 2 Horseshoe Island; Redwing (1) - near WC; Bullfinch (pair) - near WC. Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-12-18The drake Green-winged Teal was seen today on the spit of land to the right of Sheepwash hide, before moving off with other Teal. The Black-necked Grebe was also present,catching many small fish in front of Sheepwash hide. c10 Goldeneye,2 Goosander (over Lane End hide),distant views of a Great Northern Diver (also from Lane End) were amongst the other highlights.CLIVE ASHTON and DAVE NEWCOMBE.
2006-12-17No sign today of the drake Green Winged Teal. Two juv. Great Northern Divers at Millfields at 12.00.p.m. with a third juvenile close to Horeshoe Island from the windsurfing club. Later at 3.00 p.m. a juv. Great Northern Diver was just behind Sheepwash spit. The Black necked Grebes was showing well from Paul Stanley Hide. A first winter Glaucous Gull spent about 20 mins on Flat Island before taking off and flying down the Reservoir at 2.55 p.m. and disappearing off to the West. An adult Yellow Legged Gull in a fair sized roost. Up to 6 Redshank about the reservoirRichard James and Rod Key
2006-12-16Highlights: W.Centre: Green Winged Teal, Goldcrest, Treecreeper, Wren, Redwing Paul Stanley: Willow Tit(2), GS Woodpecker, Coal tit Millfields: Great Northern Diver(1)Richard and Frances Pittam
2006-12-15W.Centre 24 snipe, 60 Black-headed gull, 21 Pochard, 11 Teal (no green-winged), 9 Wigeon, 1 Kingfisher, 3 Redwing, 1 Bullfinch(F), 1 Redshank Sheepwash 1 Black-necked Grebe, 2 Redshank, 3 Meadow Pipit, 23 Teal, 1 Goldeneye(f) Millfields 8 Long-tailed titsRichard, Frances and Ken Pittam
2006-12-14Green-winged Teal (drake) again reported at WLC and 2 Great Northerns at Sailing Club (off Birdnet pager.Steph' Hicking
2006-12-13Drake Green-winged Teal still present till just before dusk at least, to the left of the Wildlife Centre,1 adult Yellow-legged Gull in front of WLC at 3pm, 1 Great Northern Diver reported at the Sailing Club this am. Black-necked Grebe reported still at Sheepwash this pm. 20+ Common Gulls in area in front of WLC 3pm. Steph' Hicking
2006-12-13Green Winged Teal and PintailMatthew Capper
2006-12-13Green-winged Teal (drake) reported on Birdnet Pager as being in front of Wildlife Centre at 9.40amSteph' Hicking
2006-12-1235 species seen from the Wildlife Centre today - not as high a number as recently. No sign of the of the Green Winged Teal from the wildlife centre but reasonable numbers of gulls came in to roost. The Black Grebe and Diver(s) were not reported at the Wildlife Centre but are presumably are still on site.Matthew Capper (Aren't birds brilliant! Project Officer)
2006-12-113 Great Northern Divers were seen together off the Sailing Club this pm, all juveniles. Close in between the jettys and near the dam at times. Steph' Hicking
2006-12-11Black Necked Grebe from Sheepwash Hide mid afternoon Ring Billed Gull again seen from Sheepwash Hide Great Northern Diver still present Green Winged Teal present to dusk yesterday but not reported today.Matthew Capper (Aren't birds brilliant! Project Officer)
2006-12-10Green Winged TealMatthew Capper (Aren't birds brilliant! Project Officer)
2006-12-09Black-necked Grebe commuting between Paul Stanley and Sheepwash Hides this pm.Steph' Hicking
2006-12-09Wildlife Centre 1 Treecreeper, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch, 2 Little Grebe, 2 Barnacle Geese, 2 Snipe, 2 Redshank Paul Stanley 6 Pochard, 1 Dunnock, 3 Snipe, 6 Little Grebe, 1 Sparrowhawk, 11 Cormorant, 1 Willow Tit, 2 Grt Spotted W/Peckers(m f), 1 Redshank, 4 Tree Sparrow, 250 Lapwing, 2 Canada Geese, 6 Great Tit, 20 Lesser Black Backed Gull, 1 Black Swan, 2 Gadwall, 12 Grt Crested Grebe Sheepwash 4 Goldeneye (1m, 3f), 45 Teal, 1 Redshank, 2 Pied Wagtail, 12 Cormorant, 85 Wigeon, 150 Lapwing, 12 Grt Crested Grebe, 6 Gadwall Millfields 80 Tufted Duck, 2 Great Northern Divers (3.10pm)Richard and Frances Pittam
2006-12-082 G N Divers, both juvenile, one in Millfields Bay from car park, one halfway along the dam wall.1 Black-necked Grebe at Sheepwash.Roger Carrington (Carsington Bird Recorder)
2006-12-08Of interest, on 6th December Severn Trent Ranger Paul Bennet found a dead Leach's Petrol whilst working on the east bank at Ogston Reservoir.The first record in Derbyshire since 1994 it ended up temporarily in the freezer at Carsington.Sadly I'm not sure the Bird Club Committee will therefore let me submit it as a record for Carsington but interesting never the less.Matthew Capper (RSPB)
2006-12-07Black-necked grebe seen from Sheepwash Hide from 2.30pm. No sign of Ring-billed gull in large roost spread out from Lane end hide south.
2006-12-05Very quiet at Carsington today not helped by the windy weather and frequent heavy showers.4 Redshank and 6 Snipe at the Wildlife Centre and both juvenile Great Northen Divers from the dam - three divers were again seen yesterday.43 Barnacle Geese were counted along with the three Cackling Geese which are still present. Look for a Canada Goose that is much smaller - smaller than the Barnacles. Also, whilst Canada Geese have a pale breast, these birds are a chocolate brown all over giving a much darker appearance and less contrast between the breast and black neck.No reports of the Black Necker Grebe but not to say that it isn't still present. The Gull roost this evening seemed to be building off Stones Island rather the Sheepwash / Paul Stanley area.Matthew Capper
2006-12-04A good number and range of birds seen today from the Wildlife Centre. The most unusual observation was of 50 Barnacle Geese, quite a high number.Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-12-02Further interesting sightings for this date taken from the Wildlife Centre logbook:Woodcock (2), Siskin (10), Raven (1), Common Buzzard.Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-12-03A busy day at Carsington with plenty of birders on site. A respectable 43 species seen during the day from the wildlife centre including the regular Little Owl and the long staying Black Tailed Godwit. The Canada Goose flock included 18 Barnacle Geese - a much improved number and with them for the first time in a while were three Cackling Geese. Also here were several snipe and 5 Redshank including a flock of 4. The biggest talking point of the day was the Great Northern Divers with several people reporting three birds - and one report positive about 2 juvenile birds and one adult winter. Certainly two of the birds showed very well just off the dam near the draw off tower for much of the day. The Black Necked Grebe was seen from Sheepwash Hide and the Black Swan was also in this area. Late on, the bird news services reported the adult Ring Billed Gull again in the roost as well as a first winter Yellow Legged Gull. The roost is best observed from Paul Stanley or Sheepwash hides and you need to be in place by about 2.30 - 3pm. Matthew Capper (Aren't birds brilliant! Officer)
2006-12-03 Two Bar - tailed Godwit observed fling off muddy shore of Millfields Bay @ 0805hrs today as I arrived , no white wing bars and whitish V between wings with white rump identifies. Also two Great Northern Diver, one seen very well at damwall and the other out in Millfields, but could still be followed between dives. Gavin Lord
2006-12-03Two Great Northern DiversRoy Smith
2006-12-02Great Northern Diver showing well at Millfields (tower) and Dam wall. Also at Wildlife Centre and Shiningford Creekrichard and Frances Pittam
2006-12-02adult Ring billed Gull again present in roost from Paul Stanley Hide. 4 adult Yellow Legged Gulls. 2 Great Northern Divers Millfields/Draw off Tower (one showing very well just off car park. Paul and Steph Hicking
2006-12-01In addition to the sightings submitted by Roger Carrington, the female red breasted merganser was also reported today.Matthew Capper
2006-12-012 GNDivers near draw-off tower this afternoon. 1 Black-necked Grebe from Sheepwash Hide at 1200hrs. 2 Whooper Swans flew northwest over Sheepwash at 1130hrs.Roger Carrington
2006-11-29Just to let you know that the Diver was just north of the draw-down tower, just off the dam wall at 09:15 this morning.Paul Bennett Ranger Service, Severn Trent Water Ltd
2006-11-28A respectable 45 species seen from the Wildlife Centre today. The best bird however, was the juvenile Great Northern Diver found by Roger Carrington first thing this morning. Present all day giving close views at time from the dam wall. The Black Swan is still present, as is the Black Tailed Godwit - both from the Wildlife Centre where Little Owl also showed on and off. Other sightings included 1 redshank at Millfields Island and 2 on Horseshoe Island; 1 Dunlin on Stones Island; 14 Snipe from Paul Stanley Hide and 11 from the Wildlife Centre; 5 Goldeneye off Stones Island; 2 Buzzard over Blackwall Plantation; 7 Lesser Redpoll on Stones Island and a female Goosander at Millfields.Matthew Capper (Aren't birds brilliant! Officer)
2006-11-28A juv. Great Northern Diver found mid-morning on Nov. 28th mid way along the damDerbyshire Ornithological Society website
2006-11-26Adult Ring-billed Gull present in roost from 3.30pm, 3 adult Yellow-legged Gulls, 5000+ Lesser Black backed Gulls,3000-4000 Black headed gulls, 30 Common Gulls, about 10 Greater Black backed Gulls. (All from Sheepwash Hide) Good numbers of wildfowl present in the Sheepwash area.Paul and Steph Hicking
2006-11-26W. Centre - 8 Lesser Redpoll, 12 Goldfinch, 1 Kestrel, 6 Redwing, 1 Redshank Stones Island - 3 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush Paul Stanley - 1 Red-breasted Merganser (F), 1 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, 30 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Bullfinch, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers (M+F), 2 Willow Tit, 1 Dunnock Sheepwash - 1 Redshank, 1 Pied Wagtail Millfields - 10 Goosander (8F+2M), 1 Redshank, 1 Meadow Pipit Richard and Frances PittamNone
2006-01-01The following were either observed by us today or were taken from the logbook in the WLC: OF NOTE: Red-necked Grebe (1) - Millfields. Black-necked Grebe (2) - Paul Stanley hide. Gadwall (3) - Shiningford/WLC creeks. Goosander (1 male) Ruddy Duck (~70) - Shiningford Creek. Kestrel (1) - near the Knockerdown Inn. Lapwing (~500) - Horseshoe Island and by the boat club. Redshank (1) - WLC Creek. Skylark (1) - edge of WLC Creek. Reed Bunting (1) - Stones Island.Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-01-022 Little Grebe-in front of Lane End Hide 3+ Great Crested Grebe-in front of Lane End Hide 48 Canada Goose- swimming left to right of Lane End Hide 1 Redshank-left of Lane End Hide 1 Willow Tit-between Sheepwash Hide and Paul Stanley Hide 2 Black-Necked Grebe-left of Paul Stanley Hide 5 Snipe - Spit next to Paul Stanley Hide 1 Grey Heron-on Sheepwash Spit with the Cormorants A mystery Silvery-Grey bird sitting in trees opposite Sheepwash Hide. Great Grey Shrike?Sam Pedley
2006-01-042 Black-necked Grebes still present - Paul Stanley hide (near tern raft) showing well again 5 Snipe - to the left of Paul Stanley hide 7 Goosander - (3 males) Millfields bay 6 Little Grebes in Millfields bay but no sign of Red Necked grebeNone
2006-01-05Today, the Red Necked Grebe has moved North East from Millfields car park and is in the bay overlooked by Upperfield Farm, a 10-15 minute walk from Millfields. A pleasant walk, with a couple of Bull Finches around and a Weasel near the small pond.Mick Sharp
2006-01-07Red-necked Grebe still present in front of sailing Club. 2No. Black-necked Grebe left of Paul Stanley Hide. c50 Wigeon ‘grazing’ on grass bank opposite Paul Stanley Hide 16 Teal left of Wildlife CentreJohn and Pam Eaton
2006-01-11Kingfisher at Shiningford creek c 12 mid day c 15 Siskin Paul Stanley HideJ Mowbray
2006-01-14Today's visit to the site, by Ray and Margaret Perry, yielded 31 species of bird for the Stones Island area and those seen from the WLC.It was a very mild day with no wind and good light. OF NOTE: Red-necked Grebe (1) - near the Sailing Club. Gadwall (at least 3 pairs) - near the Sailing Club. Pochard (17) - off Stones Island. Sparrowhawk (1 female) - working Shiningford and WLC creeks. Lapwings frequently "put up". Lapwing (over 400) - Stones Island & by the Sailing Club. Snipe (1) - Horseshoe Island. Redshank (1) - Horseshoe Island. Little Owl (1) - by the WLC creek. Sightings taken from the Wildlife Centre (WLC) logbook for the last few days: 9th January: Red-necked Grebe (1) Goldeneye (3) Shoveler (1 female) Mediterranean Gull (1 adult) Nuthatch (1) Treecreeper (1) Raven (1) Reed Bunting (1) 12th January: Black-necked Grebe (2) Siskin (50+) 13th January: Red-necked Grebe (1) Goldeneye (15) Redshank (1) Snipe (1) Common Buzzard (1) Sparrowhawk (1) Redwing (~50) Siskin (25) Lesser Redpoll (2)Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-01-19Weather warmer than of late but cloudy: Hopton End 2 Blue Tit, 1 Great Tit, 100 Rooks, 30 Mallards Hall Wood 4 Goldcrest, 9 Long-tail Tits, 1 Coal Tit, 2 Great Tit, 1 Blue Tit. Fishtail Creek 1 Robin, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Jackdaw Upperfields Bay 10 Wigeon, 1 Pochard 1 Squirrel, 1 Rabbit, 1 Jay, 1 Female Blackbird, 4 GreatTtits, 12 Mallards, 1 Magpie Millfields Bay 8 Little Grebe, 100 Tufties, 2 Mute Swans, 30 Canada's, 12 Wigeon, 2 Pochard Dam Wall 40 Tufties, 1 Pr Goosander, 2 Great Crested Grebe Boat Club 20 Tufties, 80 Canada's, 8 Great Crested Grebe Visitor Centre 40 Barnacle Geese, 100 Lapwings Shiningford Creek 32 Wigeon, 5 Little Grebe, 1 Stoat, 40 Canada's, 2 Mute Swans 30 Barnacles (in field), 1 Female Teal, 4 Male Teal, 40 Lapwing, 2 Cormorant, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Tufties, 10 Pochard Feeding Station Brick Tower 1 Male Bullfinch, 1 Female Bullfinch, 5 Sparrows, 2 Great Tit, 2 Blue Tit, 1 Coal Tit, 2 ChaffinchJan and Elv Sheppard
2006-01-19 Black Swan was found with a Mute Swan in the Watersports Bay yesterday morning (18/01) at 09:00 by Jim Craw. Unfortunately, it immediately took off and headed south and wasn't reported again. Sixty-six Pink-footed Geese flew over Shiningford Farm on the afternoon of 18th. They then peeled off and carried on in a NW direction. The two Black-necked Grebes are still being seen regularly from Paul Stanley Hide and were seen this morning. It was recently realised that there are two Red-necked Grebes on site, rather than one mobile bird. This morning there was a juvenile seen from Lane Ends Hide and an adult seen in Millfields Bay. The adult bird has been present in front of the sailing club for some time now and was very close in and easily viewable from the patio area at the back of the restaurant yesterday. However, it does make excursions south of the Sailing Club Island into Millfields Bay. There was a juvenile Kittiwake seen over Sheepwash this morning, whilst a Chiffchaff sang there briefly. A Blackcap was seen between the Visitor centre car park and the Wildlife Centre, also this morning.Paul Bennett, Severn Trent Ranger Service
2006-01-25We visited Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WLC) today, the 25th and found 36 species around midday. There was a cold northerly wind blowing and the sky was largely overcast. The following represents a summary of the best finds today and in the previous six days. Data from our own observations, the WLC logbook and the notice board outside the visitor centre. 25th: Red-necked Grebe (1) - off Stones Island, near the sailing club. Black-necked Grebe (2) - near the Paul Stanley hide. Barnacle Goose (40-50) - WLC creek. Redshank (1) - WLC creek. Song Thrush (1) Raven (2) Siskin (23) Lesser Redpoll (~10) 24th: Red-necked Grebe (1) Barnacle Goose (47) Goosander (a pair) Little Owl (2) Snipe (2) Redshank (3) 23rd: Largely similar to the 24th and 25th. 22nd:Pintail (a pair). 21st: Kingfisher (1), Snipe (1) 20th: Hawfinch (1) - Stones Island. 19th: Peregrine (1),Goldeneye (12), Caspian Gull (2)Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-02-08Peregrine flying SE over Millfields. Two Ravens over Hall Wood. Also, in the space of 90 minutes during the morning, among daily visitors on and around birdtable and feeders in Belper: 2 Blackcap (separately, 1M /1F). Gtr Spotted Woodpecker (M). 2 Nuthatch. Pr Bullfinch, 7 Long tailed tits, 3 Siskin (1M/2F), Song Thrush.Neil Hallam
2006-02-09Visited the site today - the . A very sunny day. No clouds but a cold breeze. Birdwatching from Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WLC). Of note today: Barnacle Goose (20) - on the water, WLC Creek & Shiningford Creek. More in a field near Shiningford Farm but uncounted. Gadwall (a pair) - WLC Creek. Redshank (1) - Horseshoe Island. Little Owl (1) - near WLC Creek. The following were noted from the WLC logbook and the notice board outside the visitor centre: 8th February: Oystercatcher (3),Redshank (3), Great Black-backed Gull (1), Nuthatch (2), Treecreeper (6) 6th February: Black-necked Grebe (1), Goldeneye (15), Goosander (10), Ruddy Duck (42), Common Buzzard (3), Kingfisher (1), Bullfinch (7), 5th February: Dunlin (1), Redshank (1), 4th February: Dunlin (1), Snipe (2) 1st February: Red-necked Grebe (1), Goosander (5), Peregrine (1), Siskin (21) 31st January: Black-necked Grebe (2), Red-necked Grebe (1) 27th January: Black-necked Grebe (2), Red-necked Grebe (1), Goldeneye, (10), Snipe (9), Sparrowhawk (1)Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-02-15Here is a list of the birds I saw during 1 hour in Paul Stanley hide today, both on the water and on the Bird Feeders between 13:00 - 14:00 Hours. Weather bright and breezy - birds sheltering in Brown Ale Bay. If I can see them anyone can, although I did use a telescope. Little Grebe 1, GCrested Grebe 4, Cormorant 12, Heron 1, Mute Swan 2, Canada Goose 1, Wigeon 50, Gadwall 1, Teal 60, Mallard 2, Pochard 5, Tufted Duck 125, Goldeneye 1, Moorhen 2, Coot 175, Oystercatcher 1, Lapwing 30, Snipe 1, B-headed Gull 6, Lesser B-b Gull 15, Pied Wagtail 1, Willow Tit 1, Blue Tit 1, Great Tit 2, Nuthatch 1, Carrion Crow 2, Tree Sparrow 1, Chaffinch 2, Goldfinch 1. Total Species 30Roy Smith
2006-02-16Between approx 14.35hrs to 15.45hrs: Sheepwash Hide. As well as large numbers of coot, wigeon and lapwings there were: Five dabchicks (but no trace of black-necked grebes), two curlew on the spit, one oystercatcher (spit), one redshank (spit), one kingfisher (flying past the hide, heading towards Paul Stanley), one kittiwake (flying north over the spit), three goldeneye (2F/1M), 1 pochard (briefly beneath far bank), one raven (in field below Hall Wood), three redpoll (near car park), one male brambling (with chaffinches, in bush on far side of car park). On way home, little owl perched on telegraph pole near between Ridgway and Belper.Neil Hallam
2006-02-261 Goldcrest-Visitor centre car park 1 Barnacle Goose-on bank left of Wildlife Centre 5 Oystercatchers-on Horseshoe Island 1 Little Grebe-Infront of Wildlife Centresam Pedley
2006-02-272 Black-necked Grebe, 19 Snipe (Paul Stanley hide), Redshank, 6 Goldeneye, 2 Goosander (Millfields), Oystercatcher, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, 5 Common Gulls, Buzzard, Raven displaying, Kingfisher, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Reed Bunting as well as all the usual waterfowl and woodland birdsNone
2006-03-03I Black-necked Grebe, pair Red-crested Pochard , 5 Oystercatcher, 1 Curlew flew into VC creek at14.50, 45 Barnacles, 2 Willow Tit PS hide feeder.Alan Lewin
2006-03-04The Red-necked Grebe and Goosander (pictures shortly on the Picture Gallery page) seen today alongside the dam wall. Also Nuthatch on the Paul Stanley hide feedersEric Dewhurst
2006-03-04A friend and I spotted a single Red Kite hunting over Carsington Pasture on Saturday 4th March 2006, at approximately 10.30 AM. The bird was hovering and swooping fairly low to the ground (15 – 20 ft?) and at one point landed and appeared to pick up some prey. The bird did not seem that bothered about us – we were on a family sledging trip and making quite a bit of noise and moving around a great deal – but after approximately 2 minutes it was mobbed by crows and flew off in the direction of Carsington Water. The bird’s markings were very clear – this was on a bright, sunny and crisp morning with excellent visibility – with my friend clearly seeing the V-shaped tail and I had an excellent view of the underside of the wing, showing distinct white markings and black wing tips. The shape, size, colouring, markings and behaviour of the bird indicated quite clearly that this was a Red Kite and this was confirmed when we reviewed the literature and online image galleries related to the breed. Also, severe winter weather in Wales during the period could well have driven the animal eastwards and beyond its normal habitat in order to hunt on clearer ground. Did anyone else seeWill Hoon
2006-03-13Thirty five species seen from or near to the Wildlife Centre at around midday. Weather: Overcast with a cold northerly wind blowing. Very few people on the site. OF NOTE: Barnacle Goose (19); Oystercatcher (3); Snipe (1); Song Thrush (1); Bullfinch (a pair); Reed Bunting (1). Gleaned from the logbook and the display board outside the visitor centre: 12th March: Oystercatcher (9). 11th March: Common Scoter (1). 10th March: Curlew (20); Goldeneye (20). 8th March: Black-necked Grebe (2).Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-03-21Of interest today between 13:00 and 18:00 were, The Red Necked Grebe, along with a pair of Goosander at Millfields. 7 Redshank - Horseshoe Island, Watersports area, and Stones Island. 15 Lesser Redpoll feeding on the grass bank at the end of Stones Island, along with several Goldfinch and a solitary Redwing. Towards dusk a single Dunlin on Horseshoe Island was joined by the fine sight of 61 Curlew coming in to roost.Clive Ashton
2006-03-25Red-necked Grebe and a pair of Goosander in Millfields Bay todayP Stoppard
2006-03-27Sightings for Saturday 25th March: Two Sand Martins over Stones Island at 07:15 (RC) One Chiffchaff singing by Stones Island feeding station (RC) Two Wheatears reported to RC on the Dam Wall at 08:15 One Chiffchaff reported to me as singing at the bottom of Tail Bay One Swallow reported to RC as being seen from Lane Ends Hide One Lesser Spotted Woodpecker seen at the Paul Stanley Feeders at 10.30 and 13.00 Two Common Scoter seen from Paul Stanley Hide (I think) (SJH) Sunday 26th March Two Sand Martins along the Dam Wall at 17.00 Monday 27th March Up to five Sand Martins all day between the Visitor Centre and the Wildlife Centre One Stonechat on the Dam WallPaul Bennett Ranger Service, Severn Trent Water Ltd
2006-03-29The Red-Necked Grebe fishing at Millfields near the tower. c100 Sand Martins along the dam wall and on Stones Island, along with c20 Swallows and a single House Martin near the Sailing Club. 3 Chiffchaff ( Millfields,Paul Stanley and W.L.C.) 4 Buzzard seen soaring around the site. 2 Little Owl at Shiningford Creek. 3 Goldcrest and 1 Willow Tit seen at Wildlife Centre Creek. 7 Redpoll and 2 Redwing on Stones Island. Good numbers of Tree Sparrow seen, with 20 around the feeding station on Stones Island. A Kingfisher seen flying from the Wildlife Centre towards Shiningford farm. Several sightings of Meadow Pipit along the dam wall. Also seen at various locations, though difficult to count with confidence,Redshank, Oystercatcher,Curlew,Snipe and healthy numbers of Reed Bunting.Clive Ashton and Dave Newcombe
2006-03-30More spring migrants arrived: Tues 28th, 1 House Martin. Thur 30th, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Blackcap but it could be a wintering bird, and a pager report of a first winter Little Gull.Roger Carrington
2006-04-05Red-necked Grebe showing well from the Dam wall, near to the tower with Swallow, Sand Martin and House Martin over the water in the sailing club bay. Buzzard and Raven showing well from several places Several Chiffchaff around, Blackcap, Redstart, Willow Tit and Reed Bunting have all been seen todayNone
2006-04-07The Red-Necked Grebe showing very close from the amphitheatre at the end of the dam wall. Also from the Millfields end of the dam wall 2 female Wheatear. Stones Island proved productive with 2 Little Ringed Plover,1 Common Sandpiper and 1 Yellow Wagtail. A male Redstart in the field behind the Wildlife Centre.Clive Ashton and Dave Newcombe
2006-04-09Round the reservoir: 19 Chiffchaff, 8 Willow Warbler. Millfields: 1 Red-necked Grebe off towards the water tower, 1 Marsh Tit, 1 Sparrowhawk taking a Woodpigeon corpse away. Dam Wall: Approx. 50 Sand Martins and 25 Swallows through in five minutes heading north over the water, with more feeding over the reservoir as the day progressed. Stones Island: 3 White Wagtails (m). WLC: 3 Redshank, 5 Oystercatcher. North End: 2 Oystercatcher on shingle spit.Matthew Kelly
2006-04-102 Buzzard - Soaring over Hall Wood 2 Goldeneye - left of Sheepwash Hide 3 Swallows - Sheepewash and Paul Stanley Hide 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker- Paul Stanley Hide feeders 2 Bullfinch - Paul Stanley Hide feeders 1 Blackcap - Drinking from a pool left of the path to Paul Stanley HideSam Pedley
2006-04-11The Red-necked Grebe was still by the draw-down tower this morning (11th). A Whooper Swan was found behind Horseshoe Island at 10:30 yesterday. It hung around there all day until at least 17:00. The Common Sandpiper that's been on site for a few days now, was on Horseshoe Island early on yesterday, along with a Little Ringed Plover, but it later moved to the Watersports Island. There were also one or two White Wagtails on Stones Island and Horseshoe Island throughout the day. This morning I found a burgundy RSPB note pad on the track to the wildlife Centre. It has notes in it from Spurn, Donna Nook, Old Moor, Blacktoft and Linacre. I will keep hold of it at the Ranger Base. Any enquiries to the reception desk (01629 540696) or this website.Paul Bennett, Ranger Service
2006-04-12On Stones Island this morning (08:00): 1 Wheatear (female) 1 Yellow Wagtail (male) 4 White Wagtail 1 Common Sandpiper 4 House Martins (in trees on eastern end) 63 Swallows (in trees on eastern end) 3 Meadow Pipits 1 Willow WarblerPaul Bennett, Ranger Service
2006-04-11Two migrating Ospreys sighted on Tuesday 11th – one over the River Wye above Rowsley and the other above the Derwent near Chatsworth.Neil Venables
2006-04-17At least 14 Yellow Wagtails (including one blue headed), eight White Wagtails and over 30 Pied wagtails were seen feeding on the south side of Stones Island in the evening (19:15). There was also a female Brambling (found by John Bradley), a Little Ringed Plover and good numbers of Reed Buntings, Tree Sparrows and Hirundines. Two male Common Redstarts were in the field north-west of the Wildlife Centre (RH side of the track, heading north-west).Paul Bennett STW Ranger
2006-04-18At least 36 Species seen on the Bird Club walk this evening just going round Stones Island and up to the Wildlife Centre between 7 and 8.15pm. Species included: Good views of the White, Pied and Yellow Wagtails (included one blue headed), Tree Sparrow, Brambling, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Reed Bunting, Swallow, House Martin, Redshank, Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Curlew and Raven.None
2006-04-24Highlights for last week as follows: 24/04 Garden Warblers arrived on site. At least two on Stones Island and two at Sheepwash car park. Also a Little Egret was seen flying over the reservoir by John Bradley and Alan Stewardson at around 18:45. 25/04 Alan Stewardson drew my attention to a pair of Cackling Geese on Horseshoe Island. Alan found these on Stones Island on the 24th and after consulting the appropriate field guides, decided on the aforementioned identification. They are superficially similar to Canada Geese, but are at least half the size and have a darker breast. They also appear to be slightly smaller than Barnacle Geese. Cackling Geese occur naturally in north-west America (I think) and it is unlikely that they are genuine vagrants, but are still interesting to see on site. 28/04 Thirty-nine Black-tailed Godwits were found spread between fields around the Wildlife Centre and Stones Island this morning. Jim Craw counted 42 in to roost on Horseshoe Island in the evening, along with three Whimbrel. Also seen today were three Arctic Terns, which were off Stones Island briefly in the morning. 29/04 Nine Black-tailed Godwits still present this morning, feeding in the fields opposite the Wildlife Centre. Also of interest locally was an Alpine Swift, found at Ogston on the evening of the 27th. It was seen over Ogston Hall at around 18:45 and then moved over to Carr Wood. It was relocated at 06:05 the following morning, but didn't hang around long. It has not been seen since.Paul Bennett, Ranger Service
2006-04-29 Willow Warbler - trees at the back of the Wildlife Centre 10 Black-Tailed Godwits & 1 Bar-Tailed Godwit - On Horseshoe Island and flew to the field to the left of the Wildlife Centre 1 Little Ringed Plover - Running around Horseshoe Island 2 Barnacle Geese - Swam past the Wildlife Centre 1 Little Owl - Siting on a post behind the electricity pylon at the Wildlife CentreNone
2006-05-04Today was the warmest day of the year so far - at 22-24C. Visited Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WC). 39 species of bird identified. OF NOTE: Barnacle Goose (10). Pintail (1 male) - Horseshoe Island. Oystercatcher (2) - Horseshoe Island. Dunlin (1) - Horseshoe Island. Redshank (2) - Horseshoe Island Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-05-07*****Another first for Carsington!! A Roseate Tern along with other Tern species dropped in at Carsington for a couple of hours today. This is the first seen in Derbyshire since 1979None
2006-05-11Three Black Terns were just north-west of Watersports Island between 15:30 and 17:00 at least. Two Whimbrel flew in from the south at 15:30 and landed on Horseshoe Island. One was reported as still being there at 18:00 (five Whimbrel passed through on Monday 8th). Other waders of note were three Little Ringed Plovers flying around Watersports Bay, a Common Sandpiper on Watersports Island, a Dunlin on Horseshoe Island and a Turnstone along the shoreline by the fishery office (present, on and off, since Friday 7th).Paul Bennett, STW Ranger Service
2006-05-20 A male Pied Flycatcher in the small wood at the side of Lane End hide (Sheepwash side.) Also c30 Swifts in front of Lane End hide. 3 Dunlin on Horseshoe Island. 1 Little Ringed Plover on Stones Island. 1 Curlew flew over by Shiningford Farm. Clive Ashton. 2 Coots - One on the nest in front of the Wildlife Centre while the other one kept fetching sticks 1 Redshank - Flew and landed right in front of the Wildlife Centre 3 Dunlin - Feeding on Horseshoe Island 3 Tree Sparrow - On the feeders next to the Wildlife Centre 1 Little Owl - Sat on the same post as last time then dropped down & caught something then flew to the nest boxSam Pedley
2006-05-22Approx 14.00 to 16.00: Large numbers of Sand and House Martins around the Visitor Centre in the aftermath of a severe downpour. One Little Ring Plover and a male Wheatear on Stones Island, the latter only for about 30 seconds before flying north. Very little activity around the Wildlife Centre - three Redshank, four Oystercatcher, three Tree Sparrows and a Dabchick - until a Short Eared Owl appeared along the shoreline in the vicinity of Horseshoe Island. It was quickly mobbed, first by a pair of Oystercatchers and then by Jackdaws before disappearing in the trees. A group of visitors claimed to have seen a hobby hawking over the fields behind the Wildlife Centre but investigation revealed a merlin being harrassed by a kestrel before settling briefy on a fence post and then departing in a westerly direction. Male Pied Flycatcher and Greater Spotted Woodpecker seen later from the (strongly recommended) tea room at Lea Rhododendron Gardens and a Little Owl was on its usual telegraph pole at Ridgway near Belper. Two Hobby were also seen in the afternoon (RC) at CarsingtonNone
2006-06-01Visited Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WC) around midday. Sunny but a strong breeze noted when on Stones Island. Water level very high. Horseshoe Island (HI) has become four smaller islands. 37 species of bird identified. The following were of note: Pink-footed Goose (1) - with Canada Geese near WC Creek. Greylag Goose (1) - on HI. Barnacle Goose (10) Bar-headed Goose (1) - on HI then joined Canada Geese in fields near Shiningford Farm. Oystercatcher (1) - field by WC Creek. Redshank (4) - on HI. Reed Bunting (1) - Stones Island. Very young birds of the following species were seen: Mallard, Moorhen, Coot and one Lapwing chick was seen on HI. The following sightings were entered in the logbook by others for today: Hobby (1) and Whitethroat (2). BUTTERFLIES: Green-veined White and Brimstone. PLANTS in flower: Hawthorn, Gorse, Meadow Buttercup, Daisy, Silverweed, Germander Speedwell, Bogbean, Water Forget-me-not, Field Forget-me-not, Cow Parsley, Red Campion, Cowslip, Bluebell, Bush Vetch (or Crow-peas), Ribwort Plantain and Common Sorrel. A DIP into the LOGBOOK for the last few days: MAY 31st: Little Ringed Plover (2), Shelduck (1), Common Buzzard (4), Raven (2), Lesser Whitethroat (1) and a Great Crested Grebe with striped young on its back. MAY 28th: Turnstone (1) and Curlew (1).Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-06-0833 species of birds identified during the morning. Main viewing sites were Stones Island and from the Wildlife Centre (WC). Hot and sunny. Hottest day so far this year 26-27degrees C. OF NOTE: Great Crested Grebe - two females were carrying striped young on their backs. Greylag Goose (1) - off Stones Island. Barnacle Goose (10) - mainly on Horseshoe Island (HI). Shoveler (one male) - off HI. Oystercatcher (2) - one HI and one seen from Stones Island. Lapwing - including one chick on HI. Redshank (2) - HI. Reed Bunting (2) - Stones Island. Also identified today but found by others: Curlew (1), Grasshopper Warbler (one heard between Sheepwash and Lane Ends hide), Bullfinches. BUTTERFLIES: Only Orange Tip and Small White seen. DAMSELFLY: Common Blue - 16 pairs of this species were laying eggs in plant material on the pond by the WC. Each male was in tandem with the female, the tail of the male locked onto the neck or head of the female while she deposited the eggs from her tail. Quite a sight! PLANTS: Most of the plants reported on the 1st June are still in bloom but the following additional species were noted today: Yellow Iris, Yellow-rattle, Dog Rose, Hogweed, Common Mouse-ear, Marsh Marigold and Broad-leaved Willowherb. FROM the LOGBOOK for the last few days: 7th JUNE: Bar-headed Goose (1); Redshank (5). 6th JUNE: Redshank - two very young birds on HI; Red-crested Pochard (one hybrid or leucistic bird) - on HI. Lapwing - including three chicks. 5th JUNE: Curlew (1); Common Tern (1).Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-06-244 Tree Sparrows - On the feeders next to the Wildlife Centre 2 Common Terns - On the tern rafts in front of the Wildlife Centre 3 Barnacle Geese - Right in front of the Wildlife Centre 3 Little Grebes - 1 adult with two young 1 Little Ringed Plover - On Horseshoe Island 1 Male Red-Crested Pochard - on Horseshoe Island 2 Curlews - Flew in and landed on Horseshoe Island 3 Cackling Canada Geese - To the left of the Wildlife Centre 1 Little Owl - Sitting on a dead tree near the electricity pylon 1 Bar-Headed Goose - With Canada Geese near the childrens' play areaSam Pedley
2006-07-0440 species of bird identified. OF NOTE: Mute Swan (6) - one adult with cygnet. Greylag Goose (1) - with Canadas near the sailing club. Barnacle Goose (5) Kestrel (one female) Oystercatcher (3) - Horseshoe Island (HI). Little Ringed Plover (2) - HI. Black-tailed Godwit (1) - HI, in full summer plumage. Redshank (1) - HI. Lesser Black-backed Gull (~200) - centre of reservoir. Common Tern (2) - nesting on raft in front of the WC. One bird frequently hunted by Stones Island and often caught small fish. It was reported to us verbally that one tern egg had been stolen by a gull. Little Owl (1) - seen from WC on far side of WC creek. BUTTERFLIES on the wing: Meadow Brown, Small Blue, Large White, Small Tortoiseshell. ODONATA: Common Blue damselfly - pool by WC. (also many Water Boatmen). PLANTS in bloom: Thirty one species noted including Black Medick, Kidney Vetch, Bird's-foot Trefoil, Bush & Tufted Vetches, Meadow Vetchling, Bramble, Sweet Briar, Cleavers, Great Willowherb, Broad- leaved Willowherb, Woody Nightshade (or Bittersweet), Meadow Crane's-bill, Common Knapweed, Spear & Field Thistles, Hawkweed, Oxeye Daisy, Selfheal, Common Ragwort and Nipplewort. An "Aren't Birds Brilliant" event was started on Sunday and will run for a week in the WC. Volunteers are present with telescopes to introduce the public to birds. This is a joint venture between Severn Trent Water and the RSPB. A DIP INTO THE LOGBOOK on recent dates: 2nd JULY: Jay, Great Spotted Woodpecker, a Redshank chick. 1st JULY: Lapwing chicks, Pochard. 30th JUNE: Common Sandpiper (2), Curlew, Redshank (2), Ruddy Duck. 29th JUNE: Common Scoter (one male), Gadwall (one male). The arrival of the first Common Tern was on the 21st JUNE.Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-07-13A few records for today from Roger Carrington, our club recorder: 2 Blacktailed Godwits at Wildlife Centre pair of Common Terns breeding at Wildlife Centre 2 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton Arm reedbed 1 Reed Warbler singing in Brown Ale Bay reedbed. 1 Common Sandpiper Sheepwash. For Sunday 9th 1 Whistling Swan [escape] in front of Sailing ClubRoger Carrington
2006-07-13Visited Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WC) as usual. Only 33 species of bird identified around midday. OF NOTE: Barnacle Goose (4) - WC. Oystercatcher (2) - Horseshoe Island (HI). Redshank (4) - Stones Island (SI). Common Tern (2) - raft opposite WC. One bird sitting in place, presumably on a nest and the other hunting for fish. Warblers only sing occasionally now or not at all. However, the following were noted; Blackcap, Garden Warbler and Willow Warbler. Juvenile birds from the following species were noted: Moorhen, Coot, Lapwing, Redshank, House Martin, Pied Wagtail, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Starling and Greenfinch. INSECTS present: Water Boatmen, Common Blue damselfly (~10) - some laying eggs. (WC pond). Large White, Meadow Brown and Brimstone butterflies. PLANTLIFE: Plants identified on the 4th July are still in bloom plus Perennial Sow-thistle, Welted Thistle, Cat's Ear, Autumn Hawkbit (starts flowering in June), Tufted Vetch and Hedge Bedstraw. A dip into the logbook: 10th JULY: Cackling Goose (1) - looks like a small Canada Goose. 9th JULY: Whistling Swan (1) - like a Whooper Swan but its beak is completely black. Was this the same bird that visited Tittesworth on the 18th June? 7th JULY: Tawny Owl (2) - juveniles.Ray and Margaret Perry
2006-07-16Terns seem to have hatched 3 young on raft in front of WLC on Friday14th July, I only saw one but RSPB team have seen 3. Was at a meeting so didn't note much else of note just the Cackling Geese still on Horseshoe and male Black-tailed Skimmer Dragonfly on WLC pond. Steph' Hicking 1 Wren - Wood behind Sheepwash Hide 7 Shelduck - Sheepwash Hide 1 Common Tern - Feeding in front of Sheepwash Hide 2 Oystercatchers - Sheepwash Spit 1 Common Scoter - Drake from Sheepwash Hide 1 Garden Warbler - Woods behind Sheepwash HideSam Pedley
2006-07-17A female/imm Marsh Harrier flew towards Fishtail Creek at 5.00.p.m., 3 Black Tailed Godwits on Sheepwash Spit and a Green Sandpiper by the Wildlife CentreNone
2006-07-22Short afternoon visit to Wildlife Centre produced: 1 adult Whistling Swan at wildlife centre (WLC) (presumed escape) - see picture gallery for photograph 3 Cackling Geese (WLC) (escapes). 200+ Tufted Duck (WLC). 1 Snipe (WLC). 2 Common Sandpiper (WLC). 4 Common Tern adults (2 pair) 3 chicks seen 1 on left hand raft 2 on right hand (have they been swimming?). 8 Mute Swan plus the usual numbers of Lapwing, Redshank, Oystercatcher etc.Steph Hicking
2006-07-254 Barnacle Geese - Came and fed under the bird feeders 1 of the Common Tern chicks fell off the Tern Raft and was bobbing up and down until a boat came and rescued it and put it back on the Tern Raft. then a few minutes later the two of them on that raft fell out again. 1 Cormorant - Few and landed near the Wildlife Centre and then disappeared 1 Whistling Swan - To the left of the Wildlife CentreSam Pedley
2006-06-301 Black-Tailed Godwit - Flew onto Horseshoe Island 2 Snipe - On Horseshoe Island 1 Kestrel - Hunting over the back of Horseshoe Island 1 Song Thrush - In the Visitor Center Car ParkSam Pedley
2006-08-11Ruddy Shell Duck from the Wild Life Centre (far bank). Also lots of activity around the W.L.C. feeders including Male Bull Finch and Tree Sparrows feeding juveniles. Common Sandpiper x 2 from Paul Stanley hide. Also Great Spotted Woodpecker and Willow Tit on the feeders.Mick Sharp
2006-08-191 Common Sandpiper - Horseshoe Island 1 Cormorant - Flew in next to one of the Tern Rafts 18 Teal - feeding on Horseshoe Island and on the bank to the far left of the Wildlife Centre 1 Male Bullfinch - On the the Wildlife Centre feeders for about 3 minutesSam Pedley
2006-08-212 Common terns,1 Kingfisher & 1 Common sand from WLC plus 1 Common sand & 1 LRP on Stones IslandGeoff Barter, Hook, Surrey
2006-08-252 Red-Crested Pochard - Sighting on Horseshoe Island 1 Sparrowhawk - Flew over Horseshoe Island making all the Lapwings and Teal fly up 1 Buzzard - Flew over Horseshoe IslandSam Pedley
2006-08-28Just to let you know that on my walk around Carsington today (Monday 28th August 2006) I saw 2 Female Teal in front of the Paul Stanley Hide at around 5pm.Anita Dale
2006-08-30Very busy on the site today but there were few people walking around Stones Island or visiting the Wildlife Centre. Teal numbers have increased and there are five smart looking Gadwall present. The best find of the day was a Ruddy Shelduck on Horseshoe Island. Two Pochards were spied in Shiningford Creek and there were plenty of Tufted Ducks about. The only wader species present was Lapwing but in good numbers. The only warbler detected today was Willow Warbler. One bird was detected because it was making a contact call and a second bird was found because it sang part of its song - a descending trill or warble. Arctic Terns were seen yesterday but unfortunately not today. According to the logbook there was an immature Peregrine present on the 28th. Most plants have finished flowering but the following were in bloom today: Greater Reedmace, Water Mint, Silverweed and a small patch of Redshank on Stones Island.Ray and Margaret Perry

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