Recent Sightings

DateSightingName
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
03/08/2026Green Woodpecker and Kingfisher at Hopton end first thing. Willow Tit in Brown Ale Bay and 17 Mistle Thrushes at Sheepwash. Around Stones and Watersports, Egyptian Goose, Oystercatcher, 25 Lapwing, Ringed Plover, 2 juvenile Little Ringed Plover, Redshank, Snipe, Great Egret and Whitethroat. Juvenile Peregrine buzzing Horseshoe island. Willow Warbler and Clouded Yellow in WLC creek.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
02/08/2026GW Egret and YL Gull (Ad) from Sheepwash Hide late afternoon; Dunlin (2) (Ad and Juv) off Stones Is causeway.Richard Lowe
02/08/2026Species noted during today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Canada Goose, Mallard, Coot, Black-headed Gull, Tufted Duck, Little Grebe, Pied Wagtail, Willow Tit, Blckbird, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper, Common Tern, Gt Crested Grebe, Long-tailed Tit, Treecreeper, Magpie, Swift, Chiffchaff, Woodpigeon, Linnet, Sedge Warbler, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Robin, Carrion Crow, Goldfinch, Blackcap, Red Kite, Moorhen, Mute Swan, Wren, Swallow, Greylag Goose, Grey Heron, Gt White Egret, Little EgretGary Atkins
02/08/20262 Greenshank were on Horseshoe island but were flushed and went around the back of Watersports island. A Great Egret flew in and landed at Lane End. 3 Shoveler at WLC. Small numbers of Woodpigeons moving already, 74 S and 20 N 06:00-07:00. Single Snipe, Redshank and Oystercatcher from Stones causeway. The adult Caspian Gull again at Watersports and the Yellow-leg at Sheepwash. 2 Kingfishers in Tail Bay and 150 Swallows on the dam wall early morning. Willow Tit at Sheepwash. Reed Warbler and Whitethroat on Stones.Simon Roddis
01/08/2026An adult Sandwich Tern was off Millfields early morning, last seen (by us, at least) from Stones island, gaining height at 08:55. Pair of Common Terns too. At Watersports, adult Caspian Gull and single Oystercatcher and Redshank. One Ringed Plover over Millfields. Female Shoveler from WLC. 26 Teal. 10 Little Egrets. Juvenile Peregrine at Sheepwash and a family party (3+) of Spotted Flycatchers in the wood there. Willow Tits on Stones and at WLC. 55 House Martins over the main centre. Reed and Willow Warblers on Stones. 2 Redstarts in WLC fields.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
31/07/2026A few waders today, the best being a Turnstone which flew in and appeared to land on the back of Watersports island at 08:30. Two Black-tailed Godwits flew SE off the dam wall early on but there were then 3 on Watersports island. 3 juvenile Redshank were new, as was a juvenile Oystercatcher. 1 Curlew. Lapwings have increased to at least 22. Adult Caspian Gull still at Watersports. Eclipse male Shoveler still. 3 adult Common Terns. Willow Tits on Stones and in WLC creek. 100+ Swallows.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
30/07/2026An Avocet dropped onto sailing club shore just before 06:00 but soon flew south; however, presumably the same bird flew off Watersports island at 07:45, but we didn't see it again. Drake Common Scoter off Millfields. Adult Caspian Gull at Watersports late morning and the adult Yellow-legged Gull still too. 2 eclipse male Red-crested Pochard from WLC. 1 Shoveler off Stones. Pair of Common Terns still. Willow Tit on Stones causeway. 120 Swallows around the draw-off tower early morning, and a total of at least 45 House Martins. Willow Warbler again singing in WLC creek, and Dave H had a Redstart in the fields.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
29/07/2026A juvenile Spotted Flycatcher was near the WLC this morning (very thin on the ground here this year) and the adult Caspian Gull was again on Watersports island. A mobile Green Woodpecker at Millfields was perhaps the same bird as on 20 July, and a female Yellow Wagtail was on the viewing area. 20 Mute Swans, plus 3 cygnets still. 15 Little Egrets. Pair of Common Terns. 4 Common Sandpiper and the Redshank still. 2+ Garden Warblers on Stones and a Common Whitethroat in WLC fields. 2 Muntjac near Millfields island.Simon Roddis
28/07/2026This morning, 11 Teal, the female Red-crested Pochard from WLC, 6 Common Sandpiper, 1 Redshank, 3 Dunlin, 1 Common Tern, adult Yellow-legged Gull at Millfields, Willow Warbler singing in WLC creek, Garden Warbler on Stones, 16 Mistle Thrushes over Shiningford.Simon Roddis
27/07/2026From Watersports Is of note early this evening: Mediterranean Gull (Juv) still present, also seen here on 24th and 25th July.Richard Lowe
27/07/2026Another Marsh Harrier (the second in two days) flew SW at 10:40 this morning. A Peregrine also put in a couple of appearances. The female Red-crested Pochard was at Watersports. One Redshank, 5 Common Sandpipers, 2 Dunlin and 2 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls in Brown Ale Bay early morning. c12 Little Egrets. 26 Cormorants. 2+ Willow Tits (Stones and WLC). Reed Warbler with food in Hopton reedbed. Common Whitethroat in Warbler Corner on Stones.SJR, CA, MW
26/07/2026Bird of the morning was a Marsh Harrier which Alan Stewardson saw flying down the res from Sheepwash hide at 07:15. Waders included 6 Dunlin, 3 Black-tailed Godwits, 4+ Common Sandpiper and single Redshank and Oystercatcher. Adult Caspian Gull again on Watersports island. 3 Common Terns. 10+ Little Egrets.Simon Roddis
25/07/2026A drake Common Scoter was off Millfields this morning, and 3 juvenile Goosander off the dam wall. 20 Mute Swans. 2 adult Black-tailed Godwits in Brown Ale Bay, 3 summer plumage Dunlin on Watersports island, 1 Redshank and 4 Common Sandpiper. 3 Common Terns. 12 Little Egrets. Kingfisher in Tail Bay. 150 Swallows and a Skylark on the dam wall (I wonder if the Swallows had roosted there?). 10 Sedge Warblers around Stones island and a Garden Warbler in Warbler Corner.Simon Roddis
23/07/2026One Black-tailed Godwit was on Horseshoe island this morning. 5 Common Sandpipers and 1 Dunlin. Adult Caspian Gull at Watersports. Adult Yellow-legged Gull in Brown Ale Bay was turfed off its meal by a pair of Ravens. The female Red-crested Pochard is now also in BABay. 16 Pochard. 10+ Little Egrets and 9 Grey Herons. 120 Swallows around the draw-off tower early on. 2+ Garden Warblers on Stones.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
22/07/2026Gulls of note from Sheepwash Hide and Watersports Is / jetty this afternoon: Caspian Gull (3) - Ad (the ‘regular’ bird), 1st s, 3rd s (probable hybrid); YLGull (4) - Ad (2), 2nd s (2), Juv. ; GBBGull 1st s; Excellent views from Sheepwash Hide at the moment.Richard Lowe
22/07/2026Highlights this morning were a juvenile Mediterranean Gull (found by Mike Redfern) on Watersports island, a Whimbrel south over Stones island, 5 Common Terns (4 adults, 1 juv), 2 Shoveler still, 5 Common Sandpipers and the adult Yellow-legged Gull.Simon Roddis
21/07/2026From Sheepwash hide mid-afternoon of note, YLGull (5) - Juv (my first of the year), 1st s, 2nd s (2), Ad.Richard Lowe
21/07/20266 Black-tailed Godwits on Horseshoe island mid-morning had arrived in 2 groups of 3. Other waders were 1 Oystercatcher, 12 Lapwing, 2 Curlew, 1 Redshank, 1 Snipe and 5 Common Sandpipers. Adult Caspian, second-summer Yellow-legged and GBb Gulls at Watersports. 2 Common Terns. 2 Shoveler off Horseshoe island and a redhead Goosander flew N. The female Red-crested Pochard still at Shiningford but, sadly, she appears to have lost her ducklings. 10 Little Egrets. 2+ Willow Tits (Stones and WLC). c100 Swallows and 30 Sand Martins, mostly around the draw-off tower early morning. Willow Warbler at Millfields, 6 Garden Warblers on Stones and Sedge Warbler with food in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
20/07/2026A Green Woodpecker was calling at Millfields mid-morning and a juvenile Peregrine flew over. 18 Mute Swans plus 3 cygnets. Egyptian Goose at Watersports. 15 Teal. 12 Pochard. Single Curlew and Black-tailed Godwit and 2 each of Redshank and Common Sandpiper. The regular adult Caspian Gull off Watersports then from WLC. 3 Common Terns. 6 Little Egrets. 2+ Garden Warblers in Warbler Corner on Stones and a Whitethroat at Hopton reedbed.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
19/07/20262 Black-tailed Godwits this morning, one each on Horseshoe and Watersports islands. 3 Common Sandpipers and 5 Redshank. Female Red-crested Pochard still at Shiningford. Pair of Common Terns. 3 Little Egrets. Kingfisher from WLC. c20 Sand Martins. Yellow Wagtail over the dam wall, first of the autumn.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
18/07/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 819 Canada Geese, 134 Greylag, 1 Egyptian, 16 Mute Swan (plus 3 cygnets), 103 Gadwall, 260 Mallard, 1 Shoveler, 10 Teal, 15 Pochard, 134 Tufted, 20 Moorhen, 481 Coot, 11 Little and 55 GCGrebe, 3 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 15 Lapwing, 3 Common Sandpipers, 2 Redshank, 1 Dunlin, 2 Common Tern, 23 Cormorant (plus 7 over), 5 Little Egret, 4 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher, 2 Common Gull, 1 second-summer Yellow-legged and the probable Caspian x Yellow-legged hybrid.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
17/07/202620 Swift, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Reed Bunting, 4 little Egret, 6 Redshank & one with young on water sports island, 7 Lapwing, 9 Cormorant, 3 Sedge Warbler, 5 Pied wagtail, 1 Buzzard, 3 Little grebe, 4 Blackcap, 1 Sparrow Hawk, 1 Garden Warbler, 15 Goldfinch, 7 Pochard, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Willow Tit WLC creek, 1 Bullfinch, 3 Swallow, 1 Reed WarblerDave Armitt
15/07/2026216 Swifts flew N in 2 hours this morning, plus another 10 around the visitor centre. 5 adult Black-tailed Godwits on Watersports island. Pair of Mute Swans still with 3 cygnets at Shiningford, and the female Red-crested Pochard with 4 young. 2 Little Egrets. Juvenile Sedge Warbler in Hopton reedbed, presumably a migrant starting its southward journey.Simon Roddis
14/07/2026This morning, one Egyptian Goose in Brown Ale Bay, female Red-crested Pochard with 4 young at Shiningford, Black-tailed Godwit still on Watersports island, 3+ Common Sandpipers at WLC, adult Caspian Gull on Flat Island early morning, at least one Common Gull, c200 Lesser Black-backs, 19 Cormorant, c400 Coot, Willow Tit singing near the main carpark.SJR, CA, MW
13/07/2026A small northerly movement of Swifts this morning, a total of 79 heading into the wind. Black-tailed Godwit still on Watersports island, a Curlew at sailing club and a Whimbrel flew S. Adult Caspian Gull (looks like the bird that has been here the last couple of years) on Watersports jetty. 108 Gadwall, 12 Pochard (plus 2 broods) and the female Red-crested Pochard still with young. 2 Little Egrets. Hobby over sailing club. Willow Tit on Stones. Linnets are starting to gather in the meadows south of Sheepwash, at least 10 there this morning.Simon Roddis
22/07/2026Biggest surprise of the morning was the appearance of a brood of 3 Mute Swan cygnets being walked off Horseshoe Island to the water by 2 adults; presumably they had nested out of sight on the island. Adult Black-tailed Godwit on Watersports island. Common Sandpiper at Sheepwash. 10 Pochard, plus 2 broods from WLC. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at Millfields. 2 Little Egrets. Juvenile GSWoodpecker near PS hide. 2 Willow Tits at Penn Carr/Millfields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
10/07/2026A female-type Goldeneye was in Brown Ale Bay this morning, a very dowdy bird looking very much like the one that was here last summer. 5 Teal. 9 Pochard. Female Red-crested Pochard now with just 3 young as far as I could see. 230 Coot. 9 Lapwing. First-summer Caspian Gull on Watersports jetty. Common Gull there too. Adult Common Tern. 2 Little Egrets.Simon Roddis
09/07/20263 drakes Common Scoters between Stones Island and Millfields this morning. 4 Teal. Female Pochard with 2 young from WLC, plus 4 males. 16 Mute Swans. Pair of Common Terns off the dam wall. Redshank still with 2 young. 1 Little Egret. Richard's possible Caspian Gull hybrid on Watersports jetty.Simon Roddis
08/07/202674 Gadwall from WLC this morning. 12 Mute Swans. 2 new broods of Coot, one of GCGrebe and 4 of Mallard. Redshank still with 2 chicks on Watersports island. Total of 3 Common Sandpipers. Adult Yellow-legged Gull and c100 Lesser Black-backs. 2 Willow Tits (Stones and WLC). Reed Warbler with food in Hopton reedbed and a Whitethroat there. R&A had a Kingfisher at Millfields.SJR, RPJ, AMD
05/07/2026Mid-evening on Watersports jetty: Caspian Gull (3rd s) - probably a hybrid due to darkish upperparts and yellow legs (as YLGull) but Caspian structure. Plus YLGull (ad).Richard Lowe
05/07/2026Species recorded during monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Mallard, Carrion Crow, Black-headed Gull, Cormorant, Canada Goose, Gt Crested Grebe, Magpie, Blackbird, Greylag Goose, Mute Swan, Coot, Red Kite, Pied Wagtail, Wren, Buzzard, Little Egret, Moorhen, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Little Grebe, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Chiffchaff, Dunnock, Woodpigeon, Swift, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Goldfinch, Blackcap, Long-tailed Tit, Swallow, Reed Bunting, Sedge Warbler, Red Crested Pochard (f plus six chicks), Blacktailed Godwit (3 flying over), Oystercatcher, Robin and Song Thrush (40 was well up on expectations) Three Curlew were also seen later in the afternoon from the Wildlife CentreGary Atkins
05/07/2026Quiet on a short visit this morning: Redshank still with 2 young on Watersports, 6 Pochard, 2 Teal, 2 Egyptian Geese, 1 ad Yellow-legged Gull.Clive Ashton
03/07/20266 Swift, 3 Oystercatcher, 3 Lapwing 1 Great White Egret of stones, 4 Chiffchaff, 8 Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap,2 Long tailed tit, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Willow Tit on stones, 14 Goldfinch, 2 Reed Bunting, 2 Garden Warbler, 1 Common Sandpiper on sailing Club ,1 Buzzard, 2 Reed Warbler, 2 TealDavid Armitt
30/06/2026The main highlight this morning was an adult Redshank with 2 small young on Watersports Island. Fresh Mallard broods of 9+6 at Sailing Club, fresh Coot broods 3+1, 2 Pochard, f Red-crested Pochard, 2 Teal, c10 Lapwing, ad YL Gull, Herring Gull, 6 Swift around VC. Roger and Alison had Common Sandpiper and Little Egret at Millfields, Whitethroat a d Willow Tit on Stones.Clive Ashton/RPJ/AMD.
19/06/20263 Little Egret , 6 Oystercatcher, 1 Teal, 1 Little Grebe, 61 Greylag, 3 Blackcap, 8 Chiffchaff, 7 Sedge Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Long tailed tit, 4 Reed Bunting, 2 Lesser black backed GullDavid Armitt
14/06/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 1,182 Canada Geese (plus many broods), 331 Greylag (plus at least 16 broods), 7 Mute Swan, 3 Egyptian Geese, 10 Gadwall, 56 Mallard, 2 Pochard (plus broods of 1 and 4), 45 Tufted (plus a brood of 5 at WLC), 1 Moorhen, 149 Coot (plus 4 broods), 3 Little Grebe (plus 1 brood), 40 GCGrebe (plus 3 broods), 16 Oystercatcher (including some fully grown young), 2 Redshank, 2 Common Tern, 9 Cormorant, 2 Heron. Plus a total of 8 singing Reed Warblers, Goldcrest with food at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
13/06/2026There are 5 Common Scoters (4m,1f) out in the middle this morning. Egyptian Goose, first-summer Yellow-legged Gull and Common Gull still at Watersports. 125 Coot. Peregrine over Hall Wood. c100 Sand Martins around Stones.Simon Roddis
10/06/2026A Ringed Plover was at sailing club this morning, and a Redshank at Watersports. First-summer Common Gull, Egyptian Goose, 2 drake Red-crested and 2 drake Common Pochard still. 94 Coot. Skylark singing along the dam wall. In Tail Bay, a Kingfisher, pair of Common Whitethroat with food and a family party of GSWoodpeckers. 2 Reed Warblers singing in WLC creek and another 3 in Hopton reedbed. 50 Sand Martins. Grey Wagtail with a fledged youngster at Millfields and another pair at the sailing club end of the day wall.Simon Roddis
09/06/2026Adult Mediterranean Gull again over the WLC this morning. New brood of 5 Gadwall at Shiningford. The 2 drake Red-crested Pochard still on Horseshoe island, now starting to moult. 40 Swifts and 40+ Sand Martins feeding. First-summer Common Gull at Watersports. Garden Warbler with food at Millfields.Simon Roddis
07/06/2026Species noted today during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): Mallard, House Sparrow, Canada Goose, Oystercatcher, Greylag Goose, Tufted Duck, Coot, Great Crested Grebe, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Woodpigeon, Magpie, Blackcap, Swift, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Mute Swan, Buzzard, Carrion Crow, Robin, Sedge Warbler, Dunnock, Reed Bunting, Swallow, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Gadwall, Little Grebe and WrenGary Atkins
07/06/2026Garden Warbler with young (and alarm calling) near the WLCGary Atkins
07/06/2026A pair of adult Mediterranean Gulls flew in over WLC creek 09:45. Spotted Flycatcher in the top of Hall Wood and Pied Flycatcher singing briefly and calling in Warrington Knob. 2 drake Red-crested Pochard still at Watersports and 2 (separate) Egyptian Geese. 70+ Coot. 2 Peregrines over the north end. Willow and Garden Warblers with food in Hall Wood. Redstart still singing at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
02/06/2026This morning, 3 Red-crested Pochard (2 males and the long-staying female) were off Stones causeway, 9 Mute Swans, at least 50 Swifts feeding over the east side after the rain, 61 Coot (plus 4 chicks at sailing club), second-summer Mediterranean Gull still, adult Herring Gull, a Hobby flew across the res east to west, 10 Ravens, Reed Warbler singing on Stones causeway and a pair of Garden Warblers with food near WLC.Simon Roddis
25/05/2026Fairly brief visit this morning, I shudder to think what it'll be like up there today. Single Common Tern, the second-summer Mediterranean Gull still, one first-summer Common Gull still resisting the urge to fly north, 1 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, Garden Warbler with food at Hopton end.Simon Roddis
21/05/2026A Hobby flew past the main centre and over the road early morning, first of the year here. An Arctic Tern flew S past Stones island and a Ringed Plover flew over. First-summer Yellow-legged, Great Black-backed and Common Gulls, plus the first Black-headed Gull chick on Horseshoe island. 3 Barnacle Geese. Chiffchaff with food on Stones.Simon Roddis
20/05/2026An Arctic Tern flew past Stones island at 08:35 this morning and an Osprey flew south between 08:45 and 08:50. 2 Barnacle and 2 Egyptian Geese. 16 Swifts including 8 screaming around the main centre. 2 Redshank and 1 Dunlin. Mick had Pied Flycatcher still singing in Hall Wood.Simon Roddis, Mick Watson
17/05/20262 Arctic and a Common Tern flew past Stones around 07:00. On and around Watersports island, 2 Little Egrets, female Red-crested Pochard and Pink-footed Goose. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull still on sailing club island. Yellow Wagtail flew N.Simon Roddis
16/05/2026Monthly wildfowl count: 186 Canada (plus 19+ broods), 3 Barnacle and 74 Greylag (plus 16 broods) Geese, 6 Mute Swans, 1 Egyptian Goose, 20 Gadwall, 76 Mallard, 1 Red-crested Pochard, 5 male Common Pochard, 66 Tufted, 2 Moorhen, 29 Coot, 2 Little Grebe, 45 GCGrebe, 13 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Redshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern, 12 Cormorant, 1 Heron. Plus 40 Swifts, 4 Reed Warbler, single Whitethroat, Redstart and Pied Flycatcher.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
15/05/2026In a relatively brief early morning visit, 3 Arctic Terns off Stones island, Dunlin and Common Sandpiper on Watersports island and the female Red-crested Pochard on Horseshoe island.Simon Roddis
12/05/2026Nothing much is changing at the moment, although Mute Swans have risen to 8, the most since last October. Pair of Barnacle and 3 Egyptian Geese. Female Red-crested Pochard still on Watersports island. 20 Swifts. 7 species of waders, including single Lapwing, Ringed Plover, Curlew and Common Sandpiper. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull past Stones. 100s of Swallows and smaller numbers of Sand and House Martins. 3 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed and a Common Whitethroat in WLC creek. 2 Pied Flycatchers and a Redstart singing in Hall/Middle Woods.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD, KR
10/05/20264 Swift, 8 Chiffchaff, 20+ Sand Martin, 10+ House Martin, 8 Sedge Warbler, 4 Willow Warbler, 6 Blackcap, 1 Bullfinch, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Reed Bunting, 1 LRP, 4 Oystercatcher, 3 Garden Warbler, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Redshank, 1 Lesser Black Backed Gull ,1 Egyptian GooseDavid Armitt
07/05/2026This morning, single Pink-footed and Egyptian Geese, female RcPochard, drake Goosander, pair of Oystercatchers with 3 chicks at Shiningford, Snipe on Horseshoe island, second-summer Mediterranean Gull on Sailing Club island, first-summer Caspian Gull still, 1 Willow Tit, some hundreds of Swallows, Sand and House Martins, Redstart still in WLC Fields. Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall (per Ellen Hancock).SJR, CA, MW
05/05/2026A few bits and pieces this morning: 2 Egyptian Geese still, 2 Shelduck W over WLC creek, pair of Shoveler and female Red-crested Pochard off Horseshoe island, 8 Goosander (7 flew N plus drake at sailing club), 12 Swifts, 2 Bar-tailed Godwits (one at Watersports and one flew E), immature Great Black-back, Great Egret over the main centre, Whitethroat at Hopton, 2 Pied Flycatchers in Hall and Middle Woods, 2 singing Redstart. Clive had Wheatear in WLC creek, Spotted Flycatcher at Lane End and 16 Redpoll at Sheepwash.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
03/05/2026Species recorded (44) during today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon ... Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Pied Wagtail, Canada Goose, Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff, Mallard, Swallow, Sedge Warbler, Cormorant, Coot, Garden Warbler, Tufted Duck, Black-headed Gull, Blackbird, Great Crested Grebe, Woodpigeon, Oystercatcher, Robin, Barnacle Goose, Pochard, Grey Heron, Common Sandpiper, Red-throated Diver, Dunnock, House Martin, Gadwall, Wren, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Reed Bunting, Bullfinch, Mute Swan, Goldfinch, Greylag Goose, Herring Gull, Great Tit, Common Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Moorhen, Buzzard, Sand Martin, Swift, Redshank, Blue TitGary Atkins
03/05/2026Another excellent morning. A Red-throated Diver in almost full summer plumage was off Sheepwash early morning and flew at 11:00. Waders included a total of c20 Dunlin, 2 Ringed Plovers, 2 Bar-tailed Godwits, 1 Curlew. Jon B found a female Whinchat at sailing club late morning, a nice spring record. Drake Goosander also at sailing club. Lots of hirundines: c200 each of Swallow and Sand Martin, 50 House Martins and 20 Swifts. 2 Arctic Terns. Second-summer Mediterranean Gull again. Yellow Wagtail over Stones.SJR, CA, AHS, MW
02/05/2026A Spotted Flycatcher at Lane End is the first of the year here as far as I'm aware. Arctic Tern past Stones and Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports. 2 Barnacle and 1 Egyptian Goose. 6 Pochard. Female Red-crested Pochard on Horseshoe island. Redshank and Dunlin at sailing club. First-summer Caspian Gull again off Stones. 2 singing Pied Flycatchers (Hall Wood and Sheepwash) and 2 Redstarts at Hopton end.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
01/05/2026Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports and 2 Common Sandpiper there also. 2 "commic" Terns distant in the haze, 2 drake Pochard, drake Teal, Fresh Mallard brood of 6 at Sailing Club, Common Whitethroat singing in WLC fields.Clive Ashton
30/04/2026This morning from Stones Island: 2 Ruff (1 horseshoe, 1 Watersports Island), Bar-tailed Godwit (Watersports), 3 Common Sandpiper, 1 summer plumage Dunlin (Sailing Club), Female Red-crested Pochard, 2 Barnacle Geese. 2 Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall, and Grey Wagtail singing there.Clive Ashton/Mick Watson
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


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
26/11/20234 calling Tawny Owls and a Woodcock were at the Hopton end first thing. Off Stones, 5 Pintail (1m,4f/imm), 5 RcPochard (3m,2f, later from WLC) and 4 fly-over Goosander (2m,2f). The separate female RcPochard still at Millfields. The Oystercatcher and 3 Redshank still. 2 adult GBbGulls, acting like a pair. Peregrine from WLC creek. Totals of 9 Bullfinch and 30 Siskin (20 at WLC).Simon Roddis
25/11/2023A slight surprise in the conditions to see 3 Redshank on Stones causeway and a total of 13 Snipe - been very thin on the ground here all autumn. The Oystercatcher still ans 53 Lapwings. c100 Pink-footed Geese flew E at 10:05. 34 Barnacles again in WLC fields. 4 RcPochard again. 2 Goosander over. 1 Little Egret flew in from E at 09:55. Kingfisher past Stones and 6 Meadow Pipits on the shore.Simon Roddis
24/11/2023Afternoon visit: 35 Barnacle Geese in WLC fields. 8 Whooper Swans at Millfields, still present at dusk (Amanda P reported 20 there this morning). Drake Shoveler at WLC. 4 RcPochard. Female Common Scoter off Lane End. In the gull roost, c2,800 Common, 5,000 BhG, 1,000 Lesser Black-backs, 1 adult Yellow-leg, 5 Herring.Simon Roddis
24/11/20238 Long Tailed Tit,1 Goldcrest, 1 Treecreeper, 178 Pochard, 24 Cormorant, 10 Goldfinch with 6 Siskin mixed in, 8 Little Grebe, 16 Wigeon, 2 Wren, 1 Kingfisher, 20 Mute Swan, 12 Great Crested grebe, 2 Reed Bunting, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Bull Finch, 6 Redwing, 4 RC Pochard, 6 Greylag Goose, 27 Gadwall , 1 Little EgretDavid Armitt
24/11/2023This morning from Stones Island 1 Redkite, 4 Red Crested Pochard, 1 Common Scoter (female), 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Redshank, 1 Oystercatcher. From WLC, 1 Common Buzzard ,1 Kestrel and a male Shoveller.AHS
23/11/2023Highlights this morning were a juvenile Great Northern Diver which dropped in at 09:05 and was then between Stones Causeway and Shiningford until 09:20 at least, and a Great Egret which flew NE over Stones at 08:35. 35 Barnacle Geese again in flight. 315 Pochard from WLC, and the 4 RcPochard flew in. Peregrine over Stones.SJR, RPJ, AMD
22/11/2023Still a trickle of movement: 440 Woodpigeons S (and 20 the wrong way), total of 29 Stock Doves (17S), 155 Starlings W (plus c100 in fields on the east side). Totals of 150 Redwing and 50 Fieldfare. 6 Shoveler and 2 Shelduck off Stones. 27 Wigeon. 61 Teal. 282 Pochard. 35 Barnacle Geese (as seen by Alan S yesterday). 65 Lapwing. Single Dunlin, Snipe and Brambling over Stones. 4 Tawny Owls calling at Millfields/Tail Bay early morning.Simon Roddis
20/11/2023Similar fare this morning: 294 Pochard, 4 RcPochard, 9 Goldeneye, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 3 Herring Gulls, Kingfisher on Stones, 355 Woodpigeons flew S.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
19/11/2023Monthly wildfowl count: 214 Canada, 60 Greylag, 13 Mute, 1f Mandarin, 108 Gadwall, 31 Wigeon, 143 Mallard, 46 Teal, 5 RcPochard, 304 Pochard, 122 Tufted, at least 11 Goldeneye, 10 Moorhen, 771 Coot, 23 LGrebe, 41 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 78 Lapwing, 1 Woodcock, 20 Cormorant, 1 Little Egret, 1 Kingfisher. Chiffchaff singing again at PS hide.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
24/11/2023This morning from Stones Island 1 Redkite, 4 Red Crested Pochard, 1 Common Scoter (female), 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Redshank, 1 Oystercatcher. From WLC, 1 Common Buzzard ,1 Kestrel and a male Shoveller.AHS
23/11/2023Highlights this morning were a juvenile Great Northern Diver which dropped in at 09:05 and was then between Stones Causeway and Shiningford until 09:20 at least, and a Great Egret which flew NE over Stones at 08:35. 35 Barnacle Geese again in flight. 315 Pochard from WLC, and the 4 RcPochard flew in. Peregrine over Stones.SJR, RPJ, AMD
22/11/2023Still a trickle of movement: 440 Woodpigeons S (and 20 the wrong way), total of 29 Stock Doves (17S), 155 Starlings W (plus c100 in fields on the east side). Totals of 150 Redwing and 50 Fieldfare. 6 Shoveler and 2 Shelduck off Stones. 27 Wigeon. 61 Teal. 282 Pochard. 35 Barnacle Geese (as seen by Alan S yesterday). 65 Lapwing. Single Dunlin, Snipe and Brambling over Stones. 4 Tawny Owls calling at Millfields/Tail Bay early morning.Simon Roddis
20/11/2023Similar fare this morning: 294 Pochard, 4 RcPochard, 9 Goldeneye, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 3 Herring Gulls, Kingfisher on Stones, 355 Woodpigeons flew S.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
19/11/2023Monthly wildfowl count: 214 Canada, 60 Greylag, 13 Mute, 1f Mandarin, 108 Gadwall, 31 Wigeon, 143 Mallard, 46 Teal, 5 RcPochard, 304 Pochard, 122 Tufted, at least 11 Goldeneye, 10 Moorhen, 771 Coot, 23 LGrebe, 41 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 78 Lapwing, 1 Woodcock, 20 Cormorant, 1 Little Egret, 1 Kingfisher. Chiffchaff singing again at PS hide.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
18/11/2023Afternoon visit. From WLC, 333 Pochard (254m,79f), 6 Shoveler, 4 RcPochard, the Oystercatcher. 7 Goldeneye (3m,4f) from Lane End. Minimum of 58 Lapwing. 1st-w Yellow-legged Gull. Marsh Tit at the Sheepwash feeder. Kingfisher in Brown Ale Bay. Barn Owl at Hopton end at dusk. And Alan S had a singing Chiffchaffs at PS hide this morning.Simon Roddis
17/11/2023A much brighter day. 730 Woodpigeons flew S 07:30-09:30, 405 Starlings W. 3 Shelduck on the water off Stones and 3 Pintail (2m,1f) over. 4 RcPochard (2m,2f) from WLC. Adult Yellow-legged Gull, 2 Herring, 2 Great Black-back. 1 Dunlin past Stones. 31 Lapwing. A Barn Owl at the Brassington turn at first light. 10+ Ravens.Simon Roddis
16/11/2023Of note in the gull roost late afternoon: Yellow legged Gull (4) - 3Ads plus 2ndW; GBB Gull (1) 1stW; Herring Gull (2) Ads; BHGull/LBBGull/Common Gull - scattered over the entire length of the reservoir.Richard Lowe
16/11/2023Grey and getting greyer at Carsi this morning. 263 Pochard from WLC comprised 202m,61f. 1f RcPochard there too. 26 Lapwing at sailing club. 12 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall and 40+ Siskin in alders near the WLC.Simon Roddis
14/11/2023A bit of vismig this morning: 1,060 Woodpigeons flew S (and 10N), 547 Starlings W. 335 Canada and 265 Greylags flew out early morning. 41 Wigeon (22m,19f). 174 Pochard (136m,38f). 2f Rc Pochard (WLC and Sheepwash). 4 Goldeneye (2m,2 redheads). The Oystercatcher still and the Dunlin which Clive has heard a couple of times finally showed itself, in flight off Stones and then perched on Watersports island. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls again. Kingfisher in Tail Bay. Peregrine over WLC creek. 2 Brambling over Tail Bay and 8 Bullfinches together over WLC creek.SJR, CA, AHS
12/11/2023Given the weather this morning, it was never going to be a repeat of the last couple of days. Nonetheless, a Barn Owl on the dam wall and a Woodcock at Millfields early morning were some consolation. 34 Pink-feet flew W over Stones 08:40. Pair of RcPochard still from WLC. 1 Redshank on Stones (and Clive heard Dunlin). Brambling and 5 Lesser Redpoll over Millfields.SJR, CA, AHS
11/11/2023They keep on coming: 12,350 Woodpigeons S this morning, 15 Stock Doves (plus 3 N), 740 Pink-footed Geese E in 4 skeins 08:35-09:10, plus 90W, 780 Starlings W (plus 750 out of Hopton reedbed at dawn), 13 Skylark. Over Hopton end early morning, 6 Crossbill N, 1 Brambling, 1 Little Egret, 13 Raven, 9 Reed Bunting. Shelduck off Stones and later off Brown Ale Bay. 5 Goldeneye. 2 RCPochard. Oystercatcher, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still.Simon Roddis
10/11/20236 Wigeon,3 Pied wagtail,18 Mute Swan,9 Little Grebe,20 Teal,28 Pochard, 20 starling , 15 Cormorant,2 Goldfinch, 2 Wren, 10 Blue Tit, 2 Willow Tit, 1 Oystercatcher, 12 Lapwing, 1 Chiffchaff on stones,10 Gadwall, 30 Greylag ,1 Coal Tit, 5 Dunnock, 20 RedwingDavid Armitt
10/11/2023Woodpigeons on the move again this morning: 13,420 S between 07:30-10:30, plus a site record 89 Stock Doves, (88S,1N), 585 Starlings W, 31 Pink-feet E at 09:42, 3 Skylark, 1 Brambling and 2 Crossbill. 3 RcPochard. 6 Goldeneye. Kingfisher at Millfields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
09/11/2023At least 1,000 Starlings came out of Hopton reedbed early morning (female Sparrowhawk in attendance) and another 380 flew W 10:00-11:00. Adult Caspian GUll from Stones island. Pair of RcPochard at WLC. 6+ Goldeneye. 24 Mute Swans. 320 Woodpigeons S. The Oystercatcher still present. 19 Ravens on/over the pastures, 4 of them playing around with a Red Kite and a Peregrine at one point. 25 Siskin, including 20 near WLC.Simon Roddis
08/11/2023Afternoon visit: 224 Greylag, 84 Gadwall, 20 Wigeon, 180 Mallard, 39 Teal, 1f RcPochard at Millfields, 196 Pochard, 137 Tufted, 5 Goldeneye, 2m Goosander flew down the res, 1,144 Coot, 15 LGrebe, 46 GCGrebe, 20 Lapwing. Roosting gulls included at least 5,000 Lesser Black-backs, at least 1,000 Common (maybe even 2k), 2 adult Yellow-legs, 1 Herring. 8 Ravens over the pastures. Brambling near WLC. 35 Siskins over Millfields carpark. And an unknown number of chattering Starlings roosting in Hopton reedbed.Simon Roddis
07/11/2023Movement on a smaller scale this morning: 1,750 Woodpigeons S, 275 Starlings W, 100 Pink-footed Geese E 09:55. 201 Greylags. Drake Pintail from WLC. 1 Shoveler at Millfields. 4 Goldeneye (1m,3f). 4 Goosander (3m,1f) flew out of Millfields early morning. The Oystercatcher and Little Egret still. 100s of Redwing and Fieldfare again on the east side.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
06/11/2023A bit more vismig this morning: 7,310 Woodpigeons, 15 Stock Dove, 325 Starling, 194 Redwing, 521 Fieldfare. 4 Brambling and 22 Raven over Hopton end first thing - guess the Ravens must have roosted nearby before heading E. 4 Goldeneye. 4 Shoveler on Horseshoe Island. The Oystercatcher still. 1 Little Egret off Stones (apparently seen yesterday as well). 2 Peregrine in the air together. 1 Chiffchaff on Stones.Simon Roddis
05/11/2023Species noted by the group undertaking the Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon, Stones Island to Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Pied Wagtail, Coot, Tufted Duck, Cormorant, Robin, Canada Goose, Long-tailed Tit, Gt Crested Grebe, Carrion Crow, Mute Swan, Moorhen, Black-headed Gull, Mallard, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Little Grebe, Oystercatcher, Gadwall, Teal, Redshank, Magpie, Greylag Goose, Wren, Red Kite, Pheasant, Grey Wagtail, Lapwing, Blackbird, Wigeon, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Dunnock, Pochard, Chaffinch, Willow Tit, Coal Tit, GoldfinchGary Atkins
05/11/2023Woodpigeons were on the move this morning: 32,570 counted flying S, mostly beyond the east side. c150 Greylags. 172 Pochard at WLC comprised 108m and 64f. 6 Goldeneye (2m,4 redheads) off Sheepwash. 2 Redshank and the Oystercatcher still. 12 Skylarks over in random directions. Guesstimate of 500 Fieldfares on the east side.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
03/11/2023Quite a bit of movement this morning, mostly from 07:30-09:30: 250 Pink-footed Geese E, 8,970 Woodpigeons S, 7 Stock Doves S, 18 Skylark (mostly N), 75 Starlings W, 384 Fieldfare (plus another 200 on the east side), 1 Rock Pipit over Stones, 2 Brambling over Hopton end. The adult Caspian Gull and Oystercatcher still, 2 Redshank on Stones, Water Rail in Hopton reedbed, 5 RcPochard (2m,3f) at WLC.SJR, CA, AHS
01/11/2023Later visit than usual today, counted a few ducks etc: 120 Canada, 54 Greylag, 20 Mute Swan, 55 Gadwall, 25 Wigeon, 107 Mallard, 34 Teal, 4 RcPochard (2m,2f), 338 Pochard, 233 Tufted, 2 redhead Goldeneye, 811 Coot, 10 Little Grebe, 39 Cormorant, adult Yellow-legged Gull, Marsh Tit calling in Sheepwash carpark.Simon Roddis
30/10/2023This morning's highlight was a juvenile Shag off Stones island at 08:20; it didn't stay long and appeared to be chased off by a Cormorant. The adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls and Oystercatcher still. 6 Crossbills flew E over Hopton end early morning. At Millfields, a Rock Pipit flew S, a drake Goosander flew in, and a female RcPochard (the one with the little white spots at the base of the bill) was among the Common Pochard there.SJR, CA, AHS
29/10/2023In much better conditions than the last few days, vismig from 07:30-09:30 brought 2,870 Woodpigeons S, 33 Stock Doves S, 13+ Collared Doves, 56 Skylarks (36N, 20S, possibly some double-counting), 238 Starling SW, 24 Fieldfare. 200+ Greylags flew out early morning. Totals of 30 Gadwall, 23 Wigeon, 309 Pochard, 34 Lapwing, 38 Cormorant. The adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls and the Oystercatcher again/still. Kingfisher at Millfields.SJR, CA, AHS
27/10/2023Afternoon visit: a Rock Pipit was on the dam wall mid-afternoon. 43 Lapwings over WLC and the Oystercatcher still. And lots of gulls came in to roost: c7,000 Lesser Black-backs, at least 5,000 Black-heads (could be a huge underestimate) and probably 1,000 Commons, plus 3 Yellow-legs and a Herring. 70+ Starlings went to roost on Watersports island and the Peregrine did a fly-past.Simon Roddis
26/10/2023A shorter visit than usual given the damp and foggy conditions. At least the 2 Great Egrets on Watersports island stood out, albeit briefly. Hoping for better weather tomorrow.Simon Roddis
25/10/2023Main event late morning was a total of 325 Pink-footed Geese NE in 3 skeins 11:40-12:00 (and I understand another 70 earlier). Male RcPochard from WLC. 1 Common Sandpiper on Stones and a Chiffchaff on the causeway. Kingfisher at Hopton end.SJR, RPJ, AMD
24/10/2023The first Goldeneye of the autumn/winter, a redhead, flew into Fishtail Creek this morning. At least 24 Gadwall, a definite increase on recent numbers. Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and adult Yellow-legged Gull still. 1 Chiffchaff on Stones. 2 Tree Sparrows at WLC.SJR, CA, AHS
23/10/2023A bit quieter this morning: the Peregrine both in the air and loafing in WLC fields, 2 redhead Goosander, the Oystercatcher and adult Yellow=legged Gull still, 17 Skylarks, 85 Redwing, and a Brambling dropped into WLC creek.Simon Roddis
22/10/2023A Carsington mega this morning: a ringtail Hen Harrier flew SE 08:12-08:17, the first here since December 2006. Other birds on the move included c200 Pink-footed Geese NE at 09:05, 328 Woodpigeons, 160 Fieldfare, 70 Redwing and 19 Skylarks. 2 adult Whooper Swans were off Lane End late morning. Totals of 55 Wigeon and 214 Pochard. 3 R-cPochard off Sheepwash late morning. 15 Little Grebes. Single Oystercatcher and Common Sandpiper still on Stones, and the Peregrine did a fly-past. 22 Common Gulls off Brown Ale Bay.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
19/10/2023From Paul Stanley Hide late this afternoon: Egyptian Goose (1); Shoveller (4); Wigeon (c.50); YL Gull (2) Ads; Caspian Gull (1) Ad; GBB Gull (1) Ad.Richard Lowe
15/10/20232 Lapwing, 4 Moorhen, 1 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 90 Pochard, 4 Little Grebe, 8 Long tailed Tit , 1 Mistle Thrush , 2 Pied wagtail, 1 Common Sandpiper, Red Crested Pochard 1M 2 Female, 1 Willow Tit, 12 Gadwall, 3 Skylark, 1 Peregrine, 15 Siskin , 10 Goldfinch, 10 Great Crested Grebe, 8 Mute SwanDavid Armitt
15/10/2023Monthly wildfowl count: 55 Canada Geese, 16 Greylag, 19 Mute Swan, 14 Gadwall, 2 Wigeon, 124 Mallard, 61 Teal, 4 RcPochard, 104 Pochard, 226 Tufted, 3 Goosander, 13 Moorhen, 909 Coot, 18 LGrebe, 35 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 54 Lapwing, 1 Oystercatcher, 3 Snipe, 1 Dunlin, 1 Common Sand, 33 Cormorant, 2 Heron, 2 Kingfisher, 4 Grey Wag. The Peregrine again in the ash tree in WLC fields, and 35 Siskin.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
14/10/2023This morning: 3 Whooper Swans, male Shoveler off Stones, 3 RcPochard, 130 Common Pochard, 4 Common Snipe among Lapwings at the end of the dam wall, 2 Common Sandpiper, the Oystercatcher and adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still, 41 Cormorants on Flat Island, Kingfisher at Lane End, Marsh Tit on the Sheepwash feeder, 9 Skylarks over, 1 Tree Sparrow on the WLC feeder - first I've seen there for months, 1 Crossbill N over Hopton end.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
12/10/2023Not a bad morning: at least 6 Whooper Swans (all adults in 2, possibly 3, groups of 3), 32 Pink-footed Geese flew SW, 6 Stonechats (site record) in the dam wall fields, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 41 Lapwing, single Common Sandpiper, Snipe and Oystercatcher, 4 RcPochard still, 84 Common Pochard, 1 Pintail, Peregrine, 30 Meadow Pipits.Simon Roddis
11/10/2023The adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, Oystercatcher, 2 Common Sand and 4 Red-crested Pochard still around this morning. In other news, work is actually starting today on removing the old Sheepwash Hide. At least 2 high viz jackets in evidence! End of an era.Simon Roddis
10/10/2023Not so many thrushes this morning, but that was offset by 2 Hawfinches: one S over Millfields at 08:10 and 1 SW from WLC creek at 11:10. [Alan Stewardson also had one over Harewood Moor at 10:00.] Also on the move were 1,310 Redwing, 6 Fieldfare, 78 Woodpigeons, 37 Skylarks (including a flock of 30 S over Millfields), 46 Chaffinch (probably a huge underestimate given the number of unid'd finches), 10 Lesser Repoll, 64 Siskin. 6 redhead Goosander. Only saw 1m RcPochard at WLC, looks like an adult so maybe a different bird. The Oystercatcher still. 2 Common Sandpipers around Horseshoe island. 1 Dunlin. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. The Peregrine again roosting in the ash tree in WLC fields after apparently tucking into a Pochard earlier.Simon Roddis
09/10/2023The winter thrushes arrived with a bang this morning, with 18,180 Redwings flying S down the east side, 07:30-10:30, plus 117 Fieldfare, 25 Starling, 13 Skylarks, 1 Brambling, 5 Swallows. 25 Wigeon. 3 Pintail off Stones, different from yesterday's 2 birds. 139 Pochard and 4 RcPochard at WLC. 1,200 Black-headed Gulls early morning.Simon Roddis
08/10/202325 Pochard ,5 Lapwing,15 Gadwall, 1 Oystercatcher, 4 Little Grebe, 14 Cormorant, 20 Long tailed tit, Red Crested Pochard 1 male 2 female, 1 Kestrel, 12 Mute Swan, 50 Teal, 20 Great Crested Grebe.David Armitt
08/10/20232 Common Sandpipers were at Millfields late morning, and 8 House Martins flew S, while the adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls were both there earlier. 4 RcPochard and the Oystercatcher still. At Sheepwash, 2 Pintail (which later moved to Millfields), 22 Wigeon and a Peregrine eating its breakfast. Redhead Goosander from Stones. 2 Kingfishers at Millfields. Total of 37 Skylarks over, including one flock of 17 NE. Appeared to have been an influx of c15 Blackbirds and 7 Song Thrushes into WLC creek, but no winter thrushes yet.Simon Roddis
07/10/2023The juv Ringed Plover was still on Stones this morning, and the 4 RcPochard at WLC. 6 Wigeon on Stones, 1 Pintail at Lane End and a redhead Goosander at Millfields. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls patrolling the shores. 3 Tawny Owls at Hopton end early morning. Peregrine at Millfields. Totals of 13 Skylarks, including a flock of 8 S over WLC creek, and at least 13 Lesser Redpoll and 35 Siskin.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
06/10/2023A juvenile Ringed Plover landed on Stones island this morning - something of a novelty in a really poor autumn for waders here. 1 Pink-foot flew out with the other geese. 1 Pintail off Stones. 4 RcPochard still at WLC. 85 Pochard. The Oystercatcher still. Adult and 3w Caspian Gulls on Flat Island late morning. Adult Yellow-leg at Millfields. 12 Swallows feeding around Hays Lane, Millfields. Total of 45 Meadow Pipits.Simon Roddis
05/10/2023A partial wildfowl count this morning yielded 23 Mute Swans, 10 Gadwall, 117 Mallard, 63 Teal, 3 RcPochard (might have missed the fourth), 79 Pochard, 285 Tufted, 11 Moorhen, 836 Coot, 10 Little Grebe, 26 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 31 Lapwing. Adult Caspian and 3 adult Yellow-legged Gulls on Flat Island late morning. 10 Common Gulls early morning. Marsh Tit still at Sheepwash/Paul Stanley hide. Total of 40+ Siskin. 7 Lesser Redpoll at Millfields.Simon Roddis
04/10/2023Red Kite flying over north end of reservoir. Seen from Paul Stanley hide around 2.30pm. Returned from NW about 10 minutes later.SUE RICHARDSON
04/10/2023Plenty of the same stuff this morning, but 4 Crossbills S over Sheepwash were different. 4 R-cPochard still at WLC. 117 Pochard. 550 Canada. 155 Greylag. The Oystercatcher still. 33 Lapwing. Adult and 3w Caspian and adult Yellow-legged Gull on Flat Island late morning. 4 GSWoodpecker. The Marsh Tit again from PS hide. 2 Swallow. 3 House Martin.Simon Roddis
03/10/2023On Flat Island late morning: Caspian Gull (2) Ad and 3w. YL Gull (2) Ad plus 2w. Plus Red Kite over Shiningford Creek.Richard Lowe
03/10/2023Water Rail again in Hopton reedbed this morning, 4 RcPochard still at WLC and 2 Wheatears on the dam wall. 116 Pochard at WLC. 1 redhead Goosander. The Oystercatcher still on Stones. 14 Swallows and 3 House Martins S. 5 Skylarks over the dam wall.Simon Roddis
02/10/2023Adult and 3rd-winter Caspian Gull, adult Yellow-leg and sub-adult Herring from Paul Stanley hide late morning. Water Rail in Hopton reedbed. 102 Pochard, the highest count here since January 2021. 470 Canada Geese. 115 Greylags. 1 Pink-foot. 2 Pintail over WLC, and now 4 RcPochard (1m,3f) there. The Oystercatcher still. The colour-ringed Heron SX, ringed at Attenborough in April 2022, was on Flat Island. Kingfisher in WLC creek. Marsh Tit again at PS hide. 7 House Martins S over WLC creek. 10 Chiffchaff. 2 Blackcap.SJR, CA, AHS
01/10/23Species noted on the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island - Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Robin, Coot, Mute Swan, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Carrion Crow, Long-tailed Tit, Woodpigeon, Mistle Thrush, Pied Wagtail, Black-headed Gull, Blackbird, Gt Crested Grebe, Teal, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Mallard, Meadow Pipit, Little Grebe, Canada Goose, Oystercatcher, Moorhen, Wren, Goldfinch, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, Yellow-legged Gull, Gadwall, Magpie, Grey Heron, Gt Black-backed Gull, Coal Tit, Blackcap, Lesser Black-backed Gull and Grey WagtailGary Atkins
01/10/2023This morning from Paul Stanley hide, 1 Peregrine, 1 Marsh tit, 10 plus Long Tailed tits,1 Yellow Legged Gull, 1 Caspien Gull, 1 GBBG, 1 Kingfisher ,7 plus Chiffchaffs plus the usual suspects.AHS
30/09/2023The adult Caspian Gull, 3 RcPochard and Oystercatcher still this morning. Moving S over WLC creek in an hour, 178 Meadow Pipits, 49 Siskin, 14 Lesser Redpoll, 11 Stock Dove, 7 House Martin, 1 Swallow. 120 Starlings departing Stones causeway early morning.Simon Roddis
29/09/2023Gulls on Flat Island late afternoon: YL Gull - (4) Ads; Caspian Gull (1) the 'regular' Ad; LBB Gull c600+; Herring Gull (1) Ad;Richard Lowe
29/09/202365 Common and the 3 Red-crested Pochard were in front of the WLC this morning. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, Peregrine and the Oystercatcher still. Single Snipe at WLC. 1 Blackcap at Millfields. 85 Starlings out of their roost on Stones causeway early morning. Total of 25 Siskin.Simon Roddis
28/09/2023Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls on Flat Island late morning. 3 Red-crested Pochard still. 69 Pochard. 228 Tufted. c1,000 Black-headed Gulls early morning, post-roost. The Oystercatcher on Stones still. c100 Rooks and 50 Carrion Crows on the dam wall early morning. 11 Mistle Thrushes. c60 Goldfinches from Stones.Simon Roddis
27/09/2023Not much different today: 1 Shoveler, 1 Pintail, 70 Pochard, 2 RcPochard, 15 Little Grebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 2 Caspian Gulls, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, 38 Cormorants, 1 Kingfisher, 16 Swallow, 19 House Martin, 61 Meadow Pipits S in 1 hour, 12 Chiffchaff, 7 Lesser Redpoll, 17 Siskin.Simon Roddis
26/09/2023Couldn't see the Glossy Ibis this morning, maybe it's lurking in a quiet corner somewhere. c90 Pochard. Drake Mandarin in Brown Ale Bay. The Oystercatcher and 2 Caspian Gulls (adult, 3w) still. Flock of 13 Cormorants flew S. Peregrine again in WLC fields. Marsh Tit on the feeder at Paul Stanley hide.Simon Roddis
25/09/2023Glossy Ibis seen early evening on Flat Island with Caspian Gull (2) - Ad plus 3rd w; YL Gull (4) 3-ads plus 1st w.Richard Lowe
25/09/2023Evening visit to follow up an earlier report of a Glossy Ibis. The bird did appear in flight over the Shiningford area at 18:05 and flew towards sailing club before being lost to view; not seen again up to 19:20. (If the original finder of this bird sees this, perhaps you would complete a DOS rarity form, please. Thanks.)Simon Roddis
25/09/2023Two late summer migrants this morning: a Garden Warbler (equal latest ever here) on Stones causeway and the male Redstart still in WLC fields. Adult Caspian Gull again from Stones island and Yellow-leg at Millfields. 241 Greylags. 1 Pink-foot. 3 RcPochard and 29 Common Pochard from WLC. 1 Pintail. The Oystercatcher still on Stones. 2 Little Egrets.Simon Roddis
22/09/2023On Flat Island late morning: Caspian Gull (2) Ad + 3rd w; YL Gull (1) Ad; GBBGull (1) Ad.Richard Lowe
22/09/2023Mostly S over WLC creek 07:30-10:30 this morning: 447 Meadow Pipits, 44 Siskin, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 24 Linnet. Male Redstart still in WLC fields. 1 Sedge Warbler on Stones island. The regular adult Peregrine in its favoured ash in WLC fields. 3 Kestrels in the air over the pastures. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. Redhead Goosander from Stones and 6 Pintail off Sheepwash late morning.Simon Roddis
21/09/2023This morning, 550 Canadas and 220 Greylags, 1 RcPochard in Brown Ale Bay, the Oystercatcher still, the adult Caspian Gull again on Flat Island late morning, Great Egret past Stones, 10+ Buzzards, 11 Skylarks including a flock of 7S, 6 Sand and c120 House Martins, Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields, Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall, total of at least 70 Meadow Pipits (still moving through late morning), 8 Lesser Redpoll and 10 Siskin S over WLC creek, c50 Goldfinches on Stones.Simon Roddis
19/09/2023Thinking it might be worth another look after today's winds, I was nicely surprised to find a Manx Shearwater on the water between Stones island and Millfields draw-off tower at 18:15 this evening. Still there at 19:00, after which it became difficult to see the gaps between the roosting Lesser Black-backs, c5,500 by 19:40. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 1 Pintail and 3 RcPochard also off Stones.Simon Roddis
19/09/2023Adult and first-winter Caspian and the adult Yellow-legged Gull on Flat Island late morning, plus a 1w Yellow-leg from Stones. 2 RcPochard in Brown Ale Bay, the male starting to show some colour in his crown now. c35 Pochard. Total of 18 Stock Doves (17S,1N). 6 Swallows flying into the breeze on Stones and c12 House Martins at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
18/09/2023Pretty much as you were this morning. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls from Stones, 3 R-c Pochard, 1 Pintail, 1 Little Egret, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Common Sand. 70 Starlings early morning might have been roosting on sailing club island. 2 Lesser Redpoll over Millfields. c40 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
17/09/2023Monthly wildfowl count: 429 Canada, 92 Greylag, 23 Mute Swan (including one now full-grown cygnet), 51 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, 169 Mallard, 2 Pintail, 159 Teal, 3 RcPochard, 42 Pochard, 152 Tufted, 1 Goosander, 12 Moorhen, 631 Coot, 17 LGrebe, 39 GCGrebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 11 Lapwing, 48 Cormorant, 3 Heron, 1 Kingfisher. Clive also had 2 Ringed Plover. Adult Caspian, Yellow-legged and GBbGulls again. 3 Common Gulls. 4 Tawny Owls calling early morning. 20 House Martin. 15 Siskin.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
16/09/2023c950 Canada, 80 Greylag and 23 Barnacle Geese flew out over the dam wall early morning, some of them returning later. 2 Pintail again off Stones island, and the Oystercatcher and Great Egret there still. Adult Caspian, Yellow-legged and GBbGulls on Flat Island late morning. 52 Cormorants. c100 Pied Wagtails, 1 Yellow Wagtail and c50 Carrion Crows on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
15/09/2023Another very decent morning. Highlight was a juvenile Knot which Clive found on Watersports island. Wildfowl included 1 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 8 Wigeon and a drake Common Scoter (off Lane End, found by Roger Thornley). 22 Barnacle Geese plus one hybrid flew in mid-morning. Regulars included the Great Egret and Yellow-legged Gull. Passerines were pretty good this morning: 2 Reed Warblers in Hopton reedbed, male Redstart and 11 Magpies in WLC fields; Clive had at least 6 Yellow Wagtails and 20 Meadow Pipits on the dam wall, and another 107 Meadow Pipits flew S over WLC fields 08:00-09:30, while a Yellowhammer flew N and 18 Greenfinch (including a flock of 16) S, the highest count since 2003. Totals of 6 Siskin and 6 Lesser Redpoll. 76 species again.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
14/09/2023Slight contrast from yesterday! 3 Red-crested Pochard, 1 Pintail and 95 Teal on Stones. 3 Shoveler and a Wigeon from WLC. Great Egret, Peregrine, Yellow-legged Gull and Oystercatcher still.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
13/09/2023Skeins of 65 (at 09:50) and 88 (11:05) Pink-footed Geese flew NE (my earliest ever autumn record of genuine migrants). 2 female/juv Pintail off Stones, and later from WLC. Female/juv Common Scoter off Millfields. 7 Wigeon. 2 Red-crested Pochard off Stones. The Oystercatcher still and a mobile and vocal Ringed Plover around Stones, and 4 Common Sandpipers at Millfields. Adult Yellow-legged Gull and Great Egret still. 45 Cormorant. 3 Sparrowhawks together over Hall Wood. Kingfisher on Stones causeway and the regular Peregrine on sailing club shore early morning. Total of 6 Willow Tit (3 in WLC creek, 3 at Millfields). Hirundines included at least 10 Swallow, 3 Sand Martin and 1 House Martin. At least 25 Chiffchaffs around the Stones/WLC area, and 6 Blackcaps in WLC creek. c100 Starlings early morning. Female/juv Wheatear in WLC fields. 2 Tree Sparrows at Millfields. Quite a productive morning when you add it all up, 76 species.SJR, CA, RPJ, AMD
12/09/2023Very damp this morning. 7 Wigeon, 3 Red-crested Pochard and at least 25 Pochard off Stones. 26 Lapwing. Snipe at WLC. Adult Yellow-legged Gull and an odd-looking possible hybrid grey-backed gull on Flat Island. The Great Egret still. Alan had 2 Kingfishers from PS hide, and a Marsh Tit in Sheepwash carpark.SJR, CA, AHS
11/09/2023Evening visit: similar to Clive and Alan's report for this morning: the Great Egret and Peregrine eyed each other curiously on Watersports island, the adult Caspian Gull was still off Stones, and at least 3,750 Lesser Black-backs had come in to roost by 19:45.Simon Roddis
11/09/20231 Yellow Wagtail, 5 Meadow Pipits and 1 Little Egret from dam wall this morning. From Stones Island, 3 Red Crested Pochard, 1 Oystercatcher, many Chiffchaffs in the Willows. From WLC creek, 1 Peregrine, 1 Great White Egret, a small number of House Martins and Swallows, CA also saw Yellow Legged Gull, Caspien Gull and Redkite.AHS, CA.
10/09/2023This morning from Stones Island, 2 Red Crested Pochard, 14 Pochard, 1 Black Tern, 1 Hobby. Early morning CA had 3 Yellow Wagtails on dam wall, 1Great White Egret and 3 little Egrets.AHS, CA.
08/09/2023This morning at Carsington from Stones Island 21 Pochard, 2 Red Crested Pochard, 2 Shoveller ,13 Wigeon, less Chiffchaffs than of late, but the usual number of Blackcaps feeding in the Elderberry, and 1 Great Black Backed Gull. WLC creek produced Greater Spotted Woodpecker, 140 plus House Martins, Swallows and Sand Martins, 1 Great White Egret, Willow Warbler still singing. 1 Little Egret in front of Yatch club.AHS, CA.
07/09/2023On Flat Island late this afternoon: Caspian Gull 1 Ad YL Gull 2 Ads GBB Gull 1 Ad LBB Gull c150.Richard Lowe
06/09/2023Great White Egret , other side of the water opposite the wildlife centreSteve Wright
05/09/2023Quiet morning with regard to the birds probably due to the high temperatures currently. Highlights were 1Whinchat, 1 Wheatear found by CA up in the fields beyond WLC creek, also there, were 1 Peregrine , 2 Greater Spotted Woodpeckers, 1Buzzard , Swallows and House Martins.AHS, CA.
04/09/2023Plenty of Warblers at Carsington this morning, mainly Chiffchaffs, Willow Warblers and Blackcaps ,2 Lesser Whitethroat up WLC creek. Also up WLC creek Peregrine, Kestrel and a Tawney Owl called briefly. 4 Shoveller, 6 Wigeon from Stones Island. Butterflies included Speckled Wood, Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Holy Blue and Gate Keeper.AHS, CA.
03/09/2023Following species were noted at today's Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon, Stones Island/WLC creek/Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Robin, Coot, Mute Swan, Swallow, Mallard, Canada Goose, Tufted Duck, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Cormorant, Gt Crested Grebe, Black-headed Gull, Little Grebe, Woodpigeon, Willow Tit, Jay, Bullfinch, Carrion Crow, Goldfinch, Wren, Blackcap, Buzzard, Blue Tit, Chiffchaff, Magpie, Moorhen, Long-tailed Tit, Red Kite, Lapwing, Gadwall and Pochard.Gary Atkins
31/08/2023Couldn't see the chats this morning but a Wheatear was in the overflow carpark. Adult Caspian (on Stones Shoreline) and Yellow-legged Gulls again. The 3 Red-crested Pochard were off Stones early on and later in Brown Ale Bay. 21 Common Pochard. New Little Grebe chick in BABay. 2 Kingfishers at WLC. Peregrine past Stones. 2 Reed Warbler fledglings still near WLC and 3+ in Hopton reedbed. 3 Common Whitethroat and male Redstart in WLC fields, and 35 Linnets over.Simon Roddis
30/08/2023A beautiful juvenile Whinchat and a slightly scruffy moulting male Stonechat were in the overflow carpark fields (off the dam wall) this morning. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, Ruff, Pink-footed Goose and 3 Red-crested Pochard still. 13 Pochard. 102 Woodpigeons S 06:00-07:00. 37 Lapwing. Peregrine on Watersports island. c250 Swallows and 25 House Martin. 2 recently-fledged Reed Warblers near WLC - they've been very discrete! Garden Warbler on Stones, and 1 Yellow Wagtail over.SJR, AHS, RPJ, AMD
29/08/2023The adult Caspian Gull was back this morning, and a juvenile as well as adult Yellow-legged Gull. The Ruff still present though mobile around Watersports/WLC and a Curlew flew over Stones. The 3 Red-crested Pochard still, plus 12 Common Pochard off Stones. A Pink-footed Goose was among the Canadas, and a Stonechat was on the dam wall. Willow Warbler singing in WLC creek, adult male Redstart still in the fields, and 2 Sedge Warblers on Stones. 1 Yellow Wagtail S over Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
28/08/2023Evening visit: a juvenile Ruff (probably a male) was on Stones island at 18:30, takes me to 150 for the year. The juv Mediterranean Gull was in the same spot at sailing club as it had been a couple of nights ago. The 3 Red-crested Pochard still off Stones. 6 Little Grebes (5 ads, 1 juv) together in Brown Ale Bay, and a Kingfisher there. c500 Swallows went to roost in Hopton reedbed at dusk.Simon Roddis
28/08/2023The full complement of 3 Red-crested Pochards were back off Stones early morning, along with 6 redhead Goosander. 92 Woodpigeons and 13 Stock Doves flew S 06:00-07:00. 1 Dunlin on Horseshoe island. 1 Redshank. 9 Common Gulls. c300 Lesser Black-backs on the water, unusual to see as many as that during the day. 4 separate GSWoodpeckers. The Peregrine again in an ash in WLC fields. 10 Mistle Thrushes over Millfields.Simon Roddis
27/08/2023The 2 juv female Red-crested Pochard were off Stones early morning and later in front of the WLC. 76 Woodpigeons and 16 Stock Doves flew S 06:20-07:20. 1 Common Sandpiper. 2 Yellow Wagtails and a Spotted Flycatcher in WLC fields, plus a Hobby over (and it or another later over Fishtail). 2 Sand Martins. 1+ Sedge Warbler on Stones.Simon Roddis
26/08/2023Evening visit: a juvenile Mediterranean Gull was at sailing club, the 3 Red-crested Pochard were still off Stones, and c4,000 Lesser Black-backs came in to roost, along with 400 Black-headed and 6 Common Gulls.Simon Roddis
26/08/23This morning's highlight was an Osprey which appeared at 10:45 (good spot, Alison), patrolled the res for 10 minutes, upsetting the ducks and gulls, before catching a fish and heading towards Millfields (just eclipsing the first Meadow Pipit of the month, which flew over Stones). Clive's 3 Red-crested Pochard (probably a juv male and 2 juv females) were still off Stones although mobile. 64 Teal in Brown Ale Bay. 65 Woodpigeons flew S (and 4N) 06:30-07:30. 13 Moorhen, including an adult with a small chick at Shiningford. 9 Little Grebes, plus the brood of 4 growing young from WLC. The adult Yellow-legged Gull on Flat Island much of the morning. 47 Cormorant. 5 Buzzards over Hall Wood. 1 Sand Martin among the Swallows and House Martins in WLC creek. 3 Redstarts (1m,2f) in WLC fields and 8 Siskin flew S. 2 Yellow Wagtails ove Stones.Simon Roddis
25/08/2023585 Canadas and 81 Greylag flew out over the dam wall early morning. c150 Pied and 3 Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall. 7 Grey Wags and c80 Swallows at Millfields. 5 Shoveler on Flat Island mid-morning. 1 Wigeon. 58 Teal. 9 Pochard. Juvenile Goosander. 1 Swift among c100 House Martins beyond WLC creek. 1 Ringed Plover. 1 Dunlin. 4 Common Sand. 3 Redshank. 1 Common Snipe. 56 Cormorants. Kingfisher at Millfields. Total of 9 Jays. Male Redstart in WLC fields. 2 Siskin over Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
21/8/202313 Common Pochard and 3 Red-crested Pochard were together near Sailing Club island early morning. Myself and Alan S. also had at least 5 (probably 6) Redstart in WLC fields and a Garden Warbler in the creek also Kingfisher here after I had left. Single Dunlin and Common Sandpiper on Stones, female Sparrowhawk in the main car park.Clive Ashton
19/08/233 Greenshank flew calling south west over Stones Island at 09.20 hrs. Also 1 summer plumage Dunlin on Stones Island.Neil Moulden

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