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
25/07/2024An adult Turnstone was in flight off the dam wall at 06:20 this morning and the adult Caspian Gull again at Watersports. 80 Pied and 2 Grey Wagtails on the dam wall early morning. 6+ Spotted Flycatchers (at least 3 at Sheepwash and 3 at Lane End, adults and juvs). Redstart at Lane End and Reed Bunting feeding fledged young at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
23/07/2024A Sanderling flew S past Stones island at 06:50 but not seen again. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 1 redhead Goosander flew down the res. 47 Woodpigeons flew S and 4 N 06:15-06:50. 2 Common Sandpiper at sailing club. Juv Lesser Whitethroat in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
22/07/2024A handful of waders in the drizzle this morning: 2 Whimbrel, 1 Dunlin, 7 Common Sandpipers, 20 Lapwing. Adult Caspian Gull still, plus 2 Yellow-legs and a Great Black-back. Peregrine over Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
21/07/2024Monthly wildfowl count (some figures include full-grown young): 405 Canada Geese, 2 Barnacle, 48 Greylag, 25 Mute Swan, 38 Gadwall, 120 Mallard, 19 Pochard, 179 Tufted, 11 Moorhen, 179 Coot, 8 Little Grebe, 67 GCGrebe, 13 Oystercatcher, 5 Lapwing, 2 Common Sandpiper, 28 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron. Adult Caspian Gull again and 2 Yellow-legs (adult and sub-adult). 5 singing Reed Warblers. Juv Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
20/07/2024Forgot to mention a brood of 16(!) Tufted Ducklings from WLC this morning.Simon Roddis
20/07/2024A surprise this morning was a Grasshopper Warbler reeling and showing well for a few minutes in WLC creek mid-morning. 1 Redstart there too. 2 Shoveler at Millfields. 14+ Pochard. 2 Curlew and a Redshank on the dam wall. Adult Yellow-legged Gull still. 35 Pied Wagtails and 30 Swallows around the dam wall early morning.Simon Roddis
19/07/20241,500 Lesser Black-backs came into roost during the evening, with 1 Great Black-back and 2 Yellow-legs. 2 redhead Goosander also flew in and c100 Swallows past Sheepwash may have been going to roost in Hopton reedbed.Simon Roddis
19/07/2024This morning, adult Yellow-legged Gull, 15 Pochard, 4 Common Sandpiper, young male Kingfisher at WLC, family of Spotted Flycatchers still near Lane End.Simon Roddis
18/07/2024Quieter than yesterday but the adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls are still here. Adult Common Tern. 1 Shoveler. Adult and 2 juvenile LRPlover. In WLC creek, 2 singing Reed Warblers, singing Lesser Whitethroat and juvenile Redstart.Simon Roddis
17/07/2024Much better than I'd expected on a sunny morning in July. A drake Scaup was just off Stones island early morning before flying up to Sheepwash. 3 Common Scoter (1m,2f) also from Stones. 14 Pochard. A Black-tailed Godwit flew S over the main centre at 06:50. 3 Common Sandpipers on Stones. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at sailing club early morning, then sitting on various buoys, and an adult Caspian Gull at Watersports late morning. A Great Egret flew W up WLC creek at 07:15 and a Little Egret flew into Brown Ale Bay. Juvenile GSWoodecker at Millfields. At least 3 Skylarks in the dam wall fields. 72 species, my highest total since late April.Simon Roddis
16/07/20246 Redshank and an unidentified godwit flew over Watersports at 09:15 but not seen again. 1 Common Sandpiper. Adult Yellow-legged Gull again and adult Common Tern.Simon Roddis
15/07/20241 adult Yellow-legged Gull off Stones Island. 2 adult Shoveler from The Wildlife Centre. 1 Honey Buzzard flying over The Wildlife Centre (about 1400).Dave Brown
15/07/20243 adult Shoveler off Stones this morning. 3 Common and 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. 12 Pochard, plus 2 ducklings still. At Lane End, juvenile Willow Tit, Garden Warbler, pair of Spotted Flycatchers feeding at least 2 fledged young. 2 Sedge and 1 Reed Warblers singing in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
14/07/20243 Arctic Terns were off Stones island at 06:35, lingered for a few minutes but not seen thereafter. A Common Scoter which Clive found off Stones was in juvenile plumage, rather unusual I think. The Black-tailed Godwit still near the main centre. 1 Common Sandpiper. Adult Yellow-legged Gull off Stones and the first juvenile Lesser Black-back that I've seen here this year. 2 Skylarks still in dam wall fields.Simon Roddis
12/07/2024A juvenile Wheatear was on the dam wall this morning (only my second here in July) and a Black-tailed Godwit at Shiningford (opposite the WLC). Common Sandpiper at Millfields and Redshank on Horseshoe island. New broods of Mallard in the carpark(!) and GCGrebes off the dam wall. Second-summer Common Gull at sailing club.Simon Roddis
11/07/20242 fine summer-plumage adult Knot were on sailing club shore this morning until they got disturbed. Adult Mediterranean Gull there too. The Barnacle Geese now have just one gosling, the female Pochard has 2 ducklings and the lone juvenile Shoveler again from WLC. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. 2 Little Egrets flew up the res. 3+ Spotted Flycatchers, including at least 1 juvenile, at Shiningfod and a juvenile Redstart in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
10/07/202490 Greylag Goose 450 Canada Goose 17 Mute Swan 10 Gadwall 40 Mallard 9 Pochard 50 Tufted Duck 1 Pheasant (heard) 5 Little Grebe 28 Great Crested Grebe (12 adults and 15 immature 1 juvenile) 3 Swift 6 Moorhen 5 Oystercatcher 1 Lapwing 17 Cormorant 1 Buzzard 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker 1 Kestrel 30 Crow 2 Sedge Warbler (by wildlife centre) 4 Swallow 6 House Martin 10 Chiffchaff 4 Long-tailed Tit 4 Blackcap 4 Wren 3 Blackbird 12 House Sparrow 2 Pied Wagtail 1f Chaffinch 1f Bullfinch (north of brick tower) 8 GoldfinchMatthew Fletcher
10/07/2024Redshank, Kingfisher and Willow Tit at Millfields this morning, 46 Gadwall, 14 Pochard (my highest ever July count here), juvenile Shoveler at WLC.Simon Roddis
08/07/2024Osprey off Stones Island at 12.30pm then later seen perched on tall tree opposite Sheepwash Carpark. Also Red Kite over Carsington Pastures.Richard Lowe
08/07/2024An adult Caspian Gull was off Stones island/dam wall this morning, perhaps the bird which has been here on and off for the last couple of years. A first-summer Common Gull at sailing club was my first since mid May. 8 drake Pochard. 1 Common Sandpiper. A Kingfisher on Stones, probably a young female given its shortish bill and orange at the base of the bill. 4 Linnets on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
07/07/2024Species seen during monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island to Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Black-Headed Gull, Magpie, Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Coot, Woodpigeon, Lesser Black-Backed Gull, Great Crested Grebe, Swift, Pied wagtail, Garden Warbler, Moorhen, Carrion Crow, Goldfinch, Song Thrush, Wren, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Reed Bunting, Blackbird, Sedge Warbler, Greylag Goose, Little Grebe, Oystercatcher, Pochard, Chaffinch, Common Sandpiper and Mallard.Gary Atkins
07/07/20242 Common Sandpipers this morning, a first-summer Great Black-backed Gull (my first for a while), an adult Little Egret flew in and a Hobby over the north end.Simon Roddis
05/07/20248 Oystercatcher, 1 Lapwing, 9 Chiffchaff, 2 Swift, 6 Goldfinch, 1 Buzzard, 3 Garden Warbler, 3 Little grebe, 1 Willow Warbler, 3 Sedge Warbler, 3 Pochard, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 RavenDavid Armitt
04/07/2024A pair of Common Scoter were off Stones island this morning. 10 adult Pochard from WLC. The pair of Barnacle Geese seem to be down to 2 goslings now. A Swift entered the right-hand nestbox at the main centre. Curlew and Common Sandpiper on sailing club shore. Kingfisher past Stones. Adult Reed Warbler feeding fledged young in Hopton reedbed and male Redstart in Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
02/07/2024A lovely summer-plumage Black-necked Grebe was just off the mound on Stones island this morning. There were possibly 2 more out in the middle but the heat haze was dreadful and I couldn't be certain. 7 Pochard (plus 3 ducklings). Common Snadpiper on Stones. Peregrine over Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
30/06/2024Still over 1,000 Canada Geese! 106 Tufted. 19 Swifts feeding over Stones island. 10 Little Grebes (including 4 full-grown young). 50 adult GCGrebes plus 50 young in c29 broods. 3+ Common Sandpiper. 1 adult Common Tern. Juv Willow Tit and singing Whitethroat at Hopton end. 2+ Lesser Whitethroats at top of WLC creek. Full complement of 8 species of warbler - haven't been able to say that very often this year.Simon Roddis
29/06/20245 Common Sandpipers flew along the dam wall this morning, 4 Skylarks in the fields and a male Redstart in the overflow carpark.Simon Roddis
28/06/2024An adult Kittiwake was off Stones 07:45-08:05 at least, in wing moult, missing 1-2 inner primaries. 61 Gadwall. Wildfowl broods to date: Mallard 22, Gadwall 8, Shoveler 1, Pochard 1, Tufted 12, GCGrebe 20+, LGrebe 3, Coot 16+, Moorhen 5+.Simon Roddis
26/06/2024The drake Common Scoter was again north of Stones island this morning - fair to assume it's the same bird as the last 2 days, 1 think. Female Pochard still with 5 young from WLC, and flock of 44 moulting Gadwall, some clearly flightless, there too.Simon Roddis
25/06/2024A drake Common Scoter was north of Stones island this morning - difficult to know if it's the same bird as yesterday or not. Female Pochard again with 5 young from WLC. c100 juv Black-headed Gulls at Millfields. I reckon we now have 7 broods of Oystercatcher, one on each island. Kingfisher past Stones island. Garden Warbler with food on Stones. Alan S had a Hobby over Hopton end.Simon Roddis
24/06/2024An adult Sandwich Tern was off Stones island around 08:00, my first here in June. Drake Common Scoter out in the middle. Common Tern at Millfields. 1,088 Canada, 290 Greylag, 22 Mute Swans, 195 Coot. Female Shoveler off Stones. Juvenile Jays at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
21/06/2024A drake Wigeon found by Roger and Alison was a surprise this morning. A new brood of 8 Gadwall off Watersports island. 3 Teal. 3m Pochard. 62 Tufted. 1000+ Canadas again. 6 Lapwing. 1 Common Sandpiper at sailing club, plus 3 at Millfields (per A&R). 2 Common Tern.Simon Roddis
20/06/2024Continuing the 'black bird' theme, another 2 drake Common Scoters were off Stones island early morning, later moving up the res towards Big Island. 281 Greylags. 32 Gadwall. A Common Sandpiper and 9 Lapwings on sailing club shore. Willow Tit, possibly a juv, at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
19/06/2024An adult Black Tern at Watersports this morning was a surprise given the date. 23 Mute Swans - sadly it appears as if the nest at WLC has been abandoned, 3 Mallard were sitting on it at one point. 21 adult Gadwall; brood of 7 still from WLC. Pochard brood now down to 5, accompanied by 2 females! 1 Curlew N over sailing club. 1 Little Egret. 2 Reed Warblers singing on Stones island and 1 WLC creekSimon Roddis
18/06/2024An immature drake Common Scoter was off Stones island all morning. The female Shoveler with 2 young from WLC, and female Pochard and young still (not sure exactly how many). 4 Teal. 3 adult Redshanks on Horseshoe island, one with a metal ring. Pair of Skylark in the dam wall fields, one of them carrying food - looks like the first confirmed breeding this century. Reed Warbles singing at WLC and on Stones.Simon Roddis
17/06/2024Geese numbers are still on the rise: 1,001(!) Canada, 22 Barnacle plus 3 goslings, 180 Greylag. 2 Teal from WLC. New brood of c7 Gadwall in Brown Ale Bay and at least 2 new Tufted broods. 137 Coot. 1 Common Tern. Kingfisher at Hopton end. Fledged Nuthatch and Grey Wagtails at Millfields. Siskin over Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
16/06/20246 adult Pochard this morning, including the female still with 6 ducklings from WLC. New brood of 11 Tufted from there too. Kingfisher on Stones island, my first here since mid April - must be a chance it's a young bird that's flown in from elsewhere. Lesser Whitethroat again singing in WLC fields.Simon Roddis
15/06/2024After Clive found Shoveler with young a few days ago, another success today in the shape of a brood of 6 Pochard from the WLC, the first here since 1992 (we think). 1 Teal off Stones. 1 Peregrine. 2 Skylarks still in the dam wall fields and Whitethroat still singing in Tail Bay. Grey Wagtail with food at Millfields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
13/06/2024per Clive Ashton This morning from Stones/WLC Creek; 22 Mute Swan, Barnacle pair still with 3 yng, drake Pochard, 5 Little Grebe (inc pair with at least 3 yng WLC Creek), 2 Redshank, 1 Lapwing, Hobby through WLC, 8 Swift over Horseshoe, usual Warblers singing (Sedge, Reed, Garden, Blackcap, Willow, Chiff). Fresh brood of 8 Mallard on Stones 12/6/24.Clive Ashton
09/06/2024Monthly WeBS count: 44 GCGrebe (+43 young), 6 Little Grebe, 15 Cormorant, 15 Mute Swans, 746 Canada, 164 Greylag, 66 Mallard, 14 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 45 Tufted (plus the first 2 broods of the year), 107 Coot, 6 Moorhen, 8 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshank. Lesser Whitethroat singing at Sheepwash, Tree Sparrow again on the WLC feeders.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
07/06/202414 Chiffchaff, 2 Reed Warbler, 3 Oystercatcher, 2 Reed Bunting,2 Blackcap ,6 Goldfinch , 1 Little Grebe, 1 PochardDavid Armitt
07/06/2024A brood of 8 Gadwall from the WLC is the first of the year here (good spot by Alison). The drake Pochard again. 1 Lapwing at sailing club and 2 Curlew flew W. Hobby along the dam wall and at least 1 Peregrine from WLC. Lesser Whitethroat singing in WLC fields. At least one juvenile Pied Wagtail has fledged from the boat in sailing club bay. 5 Linnets.Simon Roddis
06/06/2024Male and female Common Pochard in WLC area this morning - interesting. Barnacle Geese still with 3 young and 2 Pink-footed Geese again. New brood of 9 Mallard ducklings off Stones. Little Grebe chicks still in WLC creek and 3 large young Oystercatchers on Shiningford shore. 5+ Willow Tits on Stones. Pied Wagtail still taking food onto a boat in sailing club bay.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
05/06/202494 Greylags this morning. The drake Shoveler still. 3+ GSWoodpeckers in Hall Wood, including a large chick sticking its head out of a nest-hole. 3 singing Redstarts in Hall/Middle Woods and Spotted Flycatcher in Middle Wood. Fledged Nuthatches in Hall Wood, plus a separate adult with food. Tree Sparrow on the WLC feeders.Simon Roddis
04/06/2024The highlight this morning was the appearance of 2 Little Terns off Stones island at 08:20; they did a circuit of the reservoir and then started to gain height before departing NE at 08:27, the first here since July 2019. Also 1 Common Tern. 1 Pink-footed Goose. 2 (separate) Curlews flew S. 2 Skylarks on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
02/06/2024In Gary's absence here is the list from the bird walk. House sparrow. robin. canada goose. BH gull. cormorant. crow. tufted duck. mallard. magpie. coot great tit. barnacle goose. gt cr grebe. mute swan. pied wagtail. wood pigeon. wren. chiffchaff. garden warbler. blackbird. song thrush. dunnock. buzzard. red kite. willow tit. blackcap. sedge warbler. swallow. moorhen. oystercatcher. greylag goose. house martin. redshank. goldfinch. jackdaw. 35 species recorded.Amanda Palethorpe
03/06/2024Geese numbers are starting to build: 435 Canada, 5 Barnacle (plus 3 goslings), 92 Greylag, 2 Pink-feet. 18 Mute Swans (one still sitting at WLC). 14 Oystercatcher plus 2 chicks each at Millfields and Sheepwash. 4 Heron (3 flew in over Hall Wood). 2 Reed Warblers singing in WLC creek and one still from Paul Stanley hide.Simon Roddis
30/05/2024Barnacle Geese pair still with 5 goslings at Watersports. Drake Pochard and Shoveler still. Brood of 10 unaccompanied small ducklings at Watersports - possibly the first Gadwall brood? 20 Swifts and 40 House Martins over WLC. Still 2 Oystercatcher chicks on Millfields island. 1 adult Common Tern. Pied Wagtails taking food into a hole in the side of the engine housing(?) on a boat in sailing club bay.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
29/05/202445 Greylags. Redhead Goosander flew NW. Drake Pochard still. 30 Swifts mid-morning. 10 Willow Tits (long time since I had a double-figure count here): family party of 9 on Stones and 2 calling in WLC creek. 2 Skylark S over Stones. 20 House Martins. Sedge Warbler with food on Stones.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
28/05/20242 singing Pied Flycatchers, one each in Hall and Middle Woods, and 3 Spotted Fly in the same area. 3 singing Redstart there too.Simon Roddis
27/05/2024A Little Egret flew in just before 09:00 this morning. The Barnacle family were at WLC. Singing Reed Warblers again at WLC and Millfields, and Whitethroat still in Tail Bay. 25 Lesser Black-backs drifted N. 3 hunting Kestrels. Pair of Willow Tits with at least 4 fledged young on Stones.Simon Roddis
26/05/2024Very soggy. Pair of Oystercatchers with at least 1 chick on Sheepwash spit and 2 chicks still on Millfields island. The Barnacle Geese now have 5 goslings at Millfields. Singing Reed Warblers at PS hide and Millfields.Simon Roddis
25/05/2024Mid-morning at the north end: 3 Shelduck and a drake Pochard off Sheepwash. Black-heads now have chicks on the raft in Brown Ale Bay. 2 new broods of Great Crests (3 and 4) between Sheepwash and Lane End. Singing Spotted Flycatchers in Hall and Middle Woods, and the Pied Flycatcher still in Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
24/05/2024A Sanderling was on the dam wall this morning, plus 3 Turnstones found by Colin Penny which I missed. c100 House Martins is easily the highest number so far this year, along with c50 Swallows, 1-2 Sand Martins and 10+ Swifts. Black-headed Gulls now have chicks on Millfields island. Reed Warbler singing at WLC and Whitethroat singing in Tail Bay.Simon Roddis
21/05/20242 Dunlin on the dam wall mid-morning were new today. 10 Swifts around the visitor centre. Total of 28 House Martins flew N. Fledged Long-tailed Tits at Millfields and Hopton end. Reed Warbler singing at WLC and a Sedge (and 3+ Reed) in Hopton reedbed. Blackcap with food at Millfields.Simon Roddis
18/05/2024A Whimbrel flew N past the main centre at 09:30. Drake Shoveler again on Horseshoe island. New brood of 7 Coot at Millfields and the Oystercatchers still have 2 chicks on the island. 4 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed. 6 male Redstart between Hopton and Warrington Knob and the male Pied Flycatcher still singing in Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
16/05/2024A Whimbrel flew N up the res mid-morning. 1 Common Tern. Drake Shoveler, Pochard and RcPochard still. Little Grebes with at least 3 chicks in WLC creek, in exactly the same spot as last year. Reed Warbler singing on sailing cub island and later on Stones, and Redstart singing in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
12/05/2024Monthly wildfowl count: 139 Canada Geese (plus 5 broods), 1 Barnacle, 47 Greylag (8 broods), 6 Mute Swan, 19 Gadwall, 63 Mallard, 1 Pochard, 47 Tufted, 5 Moorhen, 53 Coot (3 broods), 48 GCGrebe (7 broods), 1 LGrebe, 9 Oystercatcher, 2 Lapwing, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern, 17 Cormorant, 4 Heron. Also 1 Spotted Flycatcher on Watersports island (most likely just arrived), Pied Flycatcher still singing in Middle Wood, 4 Reed Warbler in Hopton reedbed and a Whitethroat nearby.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
11/05/2024Highlight this morning was a wonderful flock of 11 Black Terns which arrived at 08:38, flew around for about 5 minutes but not seen subsequently. The nice weather encouraged raptors into the air, with at least 10 Buzzards, 4 Sparrowhawks and then 2 Hobbies over Millfields. Drake RcPochard still and 4 Cimon Pochard (3m,1f).Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
09/05/2024A Spotted Flycatcher, first of the year I believe, was at Lane End this morning. 2 female Shelduck were on the shore below Middle Wood before flying off. Clive also had a pair of Teal. 4 Pochard at WLC. 14 Sedge Warbler (12 around Stones island), 18 Garden Warblers, 2 singing Common Whitethroat. Pied Flycatcher still singing in Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
08/05/2024A Common Tern was the only suggestion of movement this morning. Drake Common and RcPochard still. 1 Common Sandpiper. Fledged Long-tailed Tits at WLC and female Blackcap with food on Stones. 60+ Canada Geese gathered off Watersports island at one point while 50 Black-headed Gulls circled overhead. The cause of their anxiety: a female Roe Deer on the island (that's 3 days on the trot I've seen Roe Deer here, the other 2 being a buck/bucks).Simon Roddis
07/05/2024A flock of 8 Little Egrets this morning was unexpected, although they didn't stay long. First time I've seen more than 3 here in the first half of the year. Drake PcPochard still. 11 Garden Warblers in the areas I covered. 4 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed. Pied Flycatcher still in Middle Wood.Simon Roddis
05/05/2024Species noted during monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island/WLC): Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Mute Swan, Cormorant, Mallard, Coot, Moorhen, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Shoveler, Pochard, Gt Crested Grebe, Red-throated Diver, House Sparrow, Dunnock, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Wren, Robin, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Chiffchaff, Willow warbler, Sedge warbler, BH Gull, Buzzard, Red Kite, Reed Bunting, Oystercatcher, Carrion Crow, Magpie, Lapwing.Gary Atkins
05/05/20243.40pm Red Throated Diver still present. Viewed from Stones Island looking NE. Quite distant.Emma Hattersley-Hornett
05/05/2024The Red-throated Diver was still present this morning, looking from Stones island. Drake Shoveler and RcPochard still. 3 Common Sandpiper. And a Roe Deer buck swam across the reservoir (west to east), as they do...Simon Roddis
05/05/2024A very decent morning. Biggest surprise was a Red-throated Diver which Clive initially picked up in flight; it circled for 3-4 minutes and seemed to be gaining height when we lost it at 09:05. Twenty minutes later it appeared on the water and remained for the rest of the morning at least. It is in transitional plumage, not full summer but on its way there. An adult Kittiwake flew down the res at almost the same time and showed now and them over the next hour. 3 (or more?) Arctic Terns passed through, 3 Whimbrel were on Horseshoe island and 3 Dunlin on the dam wall, plus 8 and 2 unidentified small waders. A White Wagtail on Stones causeway. Drake Red-crested and 3 Common Pochard still. 4 Swifts, 100s of hirundines (mostly Swallows and Sand Martins). 1 Lesser Redpoll at Millfields.Simon Roddis
02/05/2024Very little to report from 1/5/24; 3 Pochard (2m,1f), 2m Shoveler, drake R-c Pochard, a Shelduck flew towards WLC 19:15 hr, 2 Common Sandpiper. Great Crested Grebes at WLC with young.Clive Ashton
03/05/2024This morning, Clive picked up 3 Arctic Terns off Stones, followed later by another 2. 1 Common Tern. Drake Shoveler and RcPochard, and 3 Common Pochard still. Curlew at sailing club early on. 1 immature Great Black-back. Lesser Whitethroat singing in WLC fields and Common Whitethroat singing on Stones causeway. 2 Tree Sparrows at Millfields and 3 Lesser Redpoll flew N (seem to be a few moving through at the moment).Simon Roddis
01/05/2024Perimeter count this morning: 7 Jay, 23 Magpie, 9 Coal Tit, 4 Willow, 126 Blue, 46 Great, 13 Long-tailed, 5 Nuthatch, 5 Treecreeper, 17 Willow Warbler, 122 Chiffchaff, 9 Sedge, 3 Reed, 65 Blackcap, 11 Garden, 1 Lesser White, 118 Wren, 31 Song Thrush, 8 Mistle, 103 Blackbird, 122 Robin, 1 Pied Fly, 6 Redstart, 39 Dunnock, 2 Tree Sparrow, 2 Yellow Wag, 5 Pied Wag, 15 Chaffinch, 13 Bullfinch, 2 Greenfinch, 12 Linnet, 22 Goldfinch, 4 Reed Bunting. The female Bar-tailed Godwit was still around WLC creek, drake Shoveler still, 1 Swift, 3 Common Sand, 1 Little Egret, 9 Buzzard.Simon Roddis
26/04/2024Male and female Bar-tailed Godwits still, feeding in Shiningford creek this morning. Pair of Common Scoter off Lane End. Drake Red-crested and 2 Common Pochard still. Pair of Moorhen on Stones with 4 chicks. 4 Sparrowhawks. 2 Garden Warblers singing on Stones. Pied Flycatcher singing in Middle Wood. 4 singing Redstarts. 2 Yellow Wagtails over the dam wall. Male Brambling still singing on Stones. Lesser Redpoll over Millfields.Simon Roddis
28/04/2024A bit damp for a Songbird Walk, but a Hobby from the WLC (found by Jon B), 9 Arctics and a Common Tern made up for it. Drake Shoveler and RcPochard. 4 Pochard. 1 fly-over Black-tailed Godwit. 1 Swift from Stones. Guesstimates of hirundine numbers: c500 Swallow, 200 Sand and 30 House Martins.Simon Roddis
24/04/2024Early evening visit. An Osprey flew N over the WLC, mobbed by gulls, at 18:25, and the first Swift of the year from Stones at 19:00. Single Arctic Tern off Stones. Pairs of Common and Red-crested Pochards still. Vocal Whimbrel around Horseshoe island. Common Whitethroat in WLC creek.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
23/04/2024The Bar-tailed Godwit again on Horseshoe island and in WLC fields this morning. Influx of Redshank included 12 at sailing club (16 in total). Couldn't find the GNDiver - it would be an extremely early departure date if it has in fact left. A cream-crown Marsh Harrier flew W past Stones at 09:10. Clive had a single Arctic Tern early morning. Pair of RcPochard again, 3 Pochard, 3 Mandarin. 1 Dunlin past Stones. 2 Whimbrel in WLC fields. 2 Lesser Whitethroats singing at Sheepwash/Lane End. A male Brambling on Stones.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
22/04/2024Early evening in light rain off Millfields: 13 Arctic Terns, 3 Kittiwake (2 ads and 1st s), RC Pochard pr., GN Diver, plus Bar tailed Godwit with BH Gulls on Horseshoe Is.Richard Lowe
22/04/2024The poor weather brought 17 Arctic Terns in between 07:35-08:10. The GNDiver still from Stones, 2 Shelduck, pairs of Shoveler, Pochard and RcPochard, 3 Whimbrel on Horseshoe island early morning and presumably the same birds later over Stones. Hirundines: c100 each of Swallow and Sand Martin, and 10 House Martins.Simon Roddis
18/04/2024Slavonian Grebe showing well at Hopton End. Blackcap and maybe Garden Warbler singing in Hopton itself. Reed Warbler singing Hopton end. Reed Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff singing Stones Island.Natalie Windsor
18/04/2024Osprey, flying over near Janet Ede hide. Attempted to dive for a fish although gulls began mobbing. We lost sight of it after 5-10 minutes.Natalie Windsor
20/04/2024Three new birds for the year (as far as I'm aware) this morning: a Whimbrel on Horseshoe island early morning, a Lesser Whitethroat singing on Watersports island and a Grasshopper Warbler singing at Millfields. The GNDiver was looking splendid off Stones island. Pair of RcPochard north of Millfields. 2 drake Shoveler. 5 Goldeneye. 3 Pochard. Far fewer hirundines this morning, c80 Sand Martins, 10 Swallows, 2 House Martins. 2 male Wheatears on the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
19/04/20242 Sandwich Terns flew past Flat Island early morning, the GNDiver was still between Stones and Millfields, but no sign of yesterday's Slavonian Grebe. 9 Black-tailed Godwit (8 lovely summer-plumage Icelandic birds) and 5 Dunlin on Horseshoe Island. 3+ Common Sandpiper. 3 Goldeneye. c500 Sand Martins and 100 Swallows. Whitethroat singing near Flat Island. 6 Mistle Thrushes, including 4 (perhaps a family party) over Hopton end.Simon Roddis
17/04/2024A drake Red-breasted Merganser was at Millfields first thing, and later off Stones to 10:00 at least - completes the set of 3 sawbills for the year. The GNDiver still from Stones. Female RcPochard still. 1 Dunlin on Horseshoe island. 3 Common Sandpiper at Millfields and Willow Tit singing there. 4 male Wheatears on the dam wall.SJR, AHS, CA
16/04/2024The GNDiver was between Stones island and Millfields much of the morning. Pair of Mandarin in Shiningford creek. 3 Goldeneye. Common Tern around Horseshoe island. Loads of hirundines: c200 Sand Martin, 5 House, 30 Swallows. 3 singing Sedge Warblers. At least 2 male Redstarts in WLC creek. 3 male Wheatears on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
15/04/2024A couple of hours in Sheepwash hide in horrible conditions. The only things of note were a White Wagtail on the spit and 3 Common Sandpipers. Neil Loverock had a Yellow Wagtail near the bombing tower.Clive Ashton/Alan Stewardson
12/04/20242 Little grebe,5 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldfinch, 5 Redshank, 2 Wren, 2 Blackcap, 1 Treecreeper, 2 Bullfinch, 14 Barnacle Goose, 10 Cormorant, 1 Pied Wagtail, 2 Oystercatcher, 5 Sand Martin, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Willow WarblerDavid Armitt
11/04/2024The GNDiver still from Stones. 2 Sandwich Terns off Stones/Watersports most of the morning. 1 Common Tern. The first-summer Little and Med Gulls again on Horseshoe island. 25 Barnacles. 6 Mute Swan. Male Mandarin in WLC creek. Pair of Pochard in BABay. Female RcPochard at Millfields. 2 Common Sandpiper. Kingfisher at Millfields. First-summer male Wheatear again on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
10/04/2024The GNDiver still from Stones this morning, and the first-summer Little and Med Gulls again at WLC. A singing Reed Warbler in Hopton reedbed is the earliest record here by 4 days. 4 singing Redstarts in the Hopton, Hall/Middle Woods area. 31 Barnacle Geese. The female RcPochard still at Millfields. 2 drake Goosander flew N. Common Sandpiper at sailing club. Male Wheatear and 2 Skylarks on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
09/04/2024As far as I'm aware, no sign of yesterdays' Slavonian Grebe to 11:00 at least. The GNDiver still from Stones, and first-summer Little and Mediterranean Gulls at the WLC. 1 Common Tern. 1 Little Egret flew past the new Sheepwash hide. 6 Common and the female Red-crested Pochard at Millfields.Simon Roddis
08/04/2024Star bird this morning (and the year so far) was a summer-plumage Slavonian Grebe found by Neil Loverock at the WLC. Gorgeous bird, deservedly attracting some admirers. Supporting cast of GNDiver, first-summer Little and Med Gulls, 1 Common and 2 Arctic Terns, Common Sandpiper, 2 Yellow Wagtails and a Brambling.SJR, AHS, CA
08/04/2024Slavonian Grebe still distant from behind Horseshoe Island.Richard Pittam
07/04/2024Species noted during today's monthly Birdwatching for Beginner's walk (10am-noon; Stones Island - Wildlife Centre): Canada Goose, House Sparrow, Coot, Greylag Goose, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Cormorant, Gt Northern Diver, BH Gull, LBB Gull, House Martin, Sand Martin, Swallow, Pied Wagtail, Redshank, Blackbird, Robin, Wren, Dunnock, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Oystercatcher, Magpie, Goldfinch, Gt Crested Grebe, Siskin, Chaffinch, Woodpigeon.Gary Atkins
06/04/2024Red Kite over, Great Northern diver, 2 Grey wagtail around dam wall.Matthew Birkin
07/04/2024Another decent morning: the first-summer Med Gull was on Horseshoe island early on (and later from Stones), a Common Tern really close on Stones causeway and later 3 Arctic Terns, the earliest ever here by 4 days, off Stones. The GNDiver still from Stones, took a short flight at one point. 30+ Barnacle Geese. Drake Shoveler. 2 Red-legged Partridge on Hays Lane (Millfields). 2 Dunlin. The most hirundines yet this year: c50 Swallows, 30 Sand Martins and 2+ House Martins on Stones.SJR, CA, AHS, JB
06/04/2024An excellent spring morning. In the WLC/Stones area, 2 Little Gulls, single Common and Sandwich Terns and a first-summer Med Gull. The GNDiver still. Male Redstart in Hall Wood. And the monthly wildfowl count: 179 Canada, 2 Barnacle, 38 Greylag, 4 Mute Swan, 10 Gadwall, 77 Mallard, 1 Pochard, the female RcPochard, 67 Tufted, 10 Goldeneye, 1 Water Rail in Hopton reedbed, 6 Moorhen, 60 Coot, 5 LGrebe, 60 GCGrebe, 15 Oystercatcher, 5 Redshank, 8 Curlew, 13 Cormorant, 4 Heron.SJR, JB, CA
05/04/20246 Chiffchaff,1 shoveler, 6 Oystercatcher, 3 Buzzard, 5 Barnacle goose, 1 Red Kite, 3 Willow Warbler, 9 Cormorant, 1 Little Grebe, 2 Gadwall, 4 Sand martin , 1 House MartinDavid Armitt
05/04/2024Another Osprey this morning, fairly briefly over Shiningford/Lane End at 08:35. The GNDiver off Stones still and the female RcPochard off the east side. Drake Shoveler and Teal. 2 Kestrels (my first here since February). 1 adult Herring Gull. 1 House Martin from Stones.Simon Roddis
04/04/2024The GNDiver still this morning. 10 Goldeneye (6m,4f). Clive had a House Martin over the dam wall and it or another was over Stones causeway with Sand Martins later. Total of 6 Jays.Simon Roddis
02/04/2024The highlight this morning was an Osprey which flew slowly north between 10:50-10:58, mobbed at one point by a Buzzard. The GNDiver was still off Stones. 12 Curlew on Horseshoe island early morning. 2 Swallows and 15 Sand Martins. 4 singing Willow Warblers. Small northward movement of Woodpigeons (35) and Meadow Pipits (23). 14 Siskin at Millfields. Clive and Alan also had 2 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon and a Pochard.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
01/04/2024The GNDiver from Stones island all morning. 35 Barnacle Geese. Pair of Shoveler. The female RcPochard still off Oldfield Lane. Water Rail in Hopton reedbed. 13 Oystercatcher. 4 Redshank. Willow Warbler singing at the main centre.Simon Roddis
31/03/2024Perimeter count this morning: 32 Pheasant (29 males), 9 Moorhen, 4 LGrebe, 10 Oystercatcher, 5 Redshank, 3 drumming GSWoodpecker, 15 Coal, 5 Willow, 101 Blue, 64 Great and 10 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Skylark, 1 Willow Warbler, 185 Chiffchaffs (169 singing), 18 singing Blackcaps, 135 Wren, 11 Nuthatch, 17 Treecreeper, 40 Song Thrush, 6 Mistle, 91 Blackbirds, 144 Robin, 49 Dunnock, 21 Chaffinch, 1 Hawfinch, 7 Bullfinch, 24 Goldfinch, 22 Siskin, 5 Reed Bunting. 6 Shoveler (4m,2f), 2 drake Pochard and my first brood of Mallard ducklings, 7 at Millfields island.Simon Roddis
30/03/2023The GNDiver was off Stones all morning. 35 Barnacle Geese. 12 Goldeneye. 12 Curlew on Horseshoe island early morning. 5 Redshank. 2 immature Herring Gulls. Black cap, Willow Warbler and Willow Tit - 2 of each singing. Total of 5 Linnet over Stones/dam wall.Simon Roddis
29/03/2024The GNDiver off Stones still. A Whooper Swan flew in early morning and lingered off the dam wall. 9 Black-tailed Godwits still, but flushed by a Peregrine and not seen subsequently. 2 drake Pochard. 4 Redshank. Swallow and Sand Martin over Stones causeway. Singing Blackcaps on Stones and in Middle Wood. Clive had the singing Willow Warbler again near the main centre. 8 Treecreepers in Hall/Middle Woods. 2 Tree Sparrows at WLC.SJR, CA, AHS

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