Recent Sightings

NameSightingDate
DN, MW, RPJ, AMD,AHSThis morning from Stones Island, 1 Little Egret, 1 Great White Egret, 1 Yellow legged gull, 75 Pink Feet Geese, at least 4 Skylarks over, 1 Dunlin, Oystercatcher still present, Willow tit, groups of Redwings fly down East Bank. From WLC creek, 1 Coot, 1 Redkite, Siskins and Redpolls in the Alder trees.22/10/2025
Dave NewcombeIn addition to Simon's post: 2 Shoveler and 13 Pochard at Millfields. Chiffchaff on Stones island. Ducks counted at Lane End whilst I was sheltering from the rain: 50 Wigeon (exact count), 33 Gadwall. 370 Teal. There were a few more Teal but they got flushed before I could finish. 5 Skylark over SW. From Sheepwash: A break in the weather allowed 4 Buzzards, 2 Red Kites, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk to come out. The latter flushing 25 Redwings on far side. A Common Sand again (maybe a different bird to last week). c25 Linnets. The gull roost held c10'000 birds. Adult Caspian. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls. 4 Herring Gulls. 500 Common Gulls by 17.30hrs.20/10/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonA reasonable morning given the conditions, the following all from Sheepwash hide: female Goldeneye (first of the autumn), Common Scoter off Fishtail, presumably the same as yesterday, 2 Dunlin, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, 1 Little and 3 Great Egrets, 21 Gadwall, 37 Wigeon, Peregrine, Rock Pipit and a late Wheatear (possibly Greenland?).20/10/2025
SJR, CA, MW, JBIn 2 hours from Stones island this morning, 50 Pink-footed Geese SW, 1,098 Woodpigeons S, 5 Stock and 4 Collared Doves, 16 Golden Plover, 4 Great Egret (3 NE, 1 S), 16 Skylarks, 483 Starling, 739 Redwing, 170 Fieldfare. One drake Common Scoter still off the east side, 30 Pochard, 4 Lapwing, 2 Peregrine, Yellow-legged Gull.19/10/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonBest bird for me this morning was a calling Little Owl, my first there for donkey's years. 4 Common Scoter (2 drakes) were again off Fishtail Creek so perhaps part of yesterday's flock. An hour's vismig from Stones produced 265 Woodpigeons, 260 Starlings, 484 Redwing, 20 Fieldfare and 12 Chaffinch. 28 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at about 09:30. 2 Curlew and a Dunlin flew past Stones, a Ringed Plover was at Sheepwash and the Oystercatcher still on Horseshoe island. Adult Caspian and 2 Yellow-legged Gulls still. c600 Common Gulls departed early morning and 750 Jackdaws noisily left their roost. Female Pintail at Sheepwash.18/10/2025
Simon RoddisAnother 5 Common Scoter (1m, 4 female/juvs) this morning - it's been a good week for them. Female Pintail past Stones. A bit of movement included 68 Woodpigeons, 5 Stock Doves, 10 Skylarks, 31 Starling, 186 Redwing and 17 Fieldfare. Single Redshank and Dunlin, and 2 Snipe. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. c3,000 Black-headed Gulls first thing. Cetti's Warbler still in Hopton reedbed, and Crossbill over. Male Stonechat in the overflow carpark. Chiffchaff and Blackcap still on Stones.17/10/2025
Simon RoddisLate afternoon visit: c5,000 Lesser Black-backs had come into the roost by 18:30. Shelduck still at Sheepwash, along with 2 Redshank, adult Caspian Gull, Herring Gull. Also 4 Yellow-legged Gulls and a Dunlin (per RJL). 46 Cormorants. 50 Starlings, presumably going to roost somewhere.16/10/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonClive found this morning's star bird, a juvenile Gannet sitting out on the water, present to midday at least. 6 Common Scoters (an adult drake and 5 lovely barred juveniles) were off the dam wall and a Rock Pipit flew over. A few birds moving, with totals of c650 Redwing in random directions, 80 Fieldfare, 180 Woodpigeons, 11 Stock Doves, 13 Skylarks and 10 Swallows. Adult Caspian Gull still and 2 adult Yellow-legs. Single Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Ringed Plover and Dunlin. Drake Pintail off Lane End and at least 18 Pochard. Total of at least 90 Siskin.15/10/2025
Simon RoddisA flock of 22 Common Scoters (7 males, 15 females) was between Stones island and Millfields this morning. Total of 134 Redwing through. 9 Coot, more than double the number on the WeBS count on Sunday! 64 Wigeon, 200 Teal and a Dunlin in front of Lane End hide, plus the adult Caspian Gull snaffling multiple crayfish of the invasive Signal variety. At Hopton end first thing, the Cetti's Warbler (actually seen!) and 4 calling Tawny Owls. c60 Siskin in WLC creek.14/10/2025
Dave NewcombeIn addition to Simon's post. 4 Little Egrets. 115 Greylags. 17 Wigeon. 6 Gadwall. 3 Pochard. 3 Ringed Plover on the dam. 22 Skylarks SW including a flock of 16. c30 Linnets on stones island then presumably the same flock at Sheepwash. A few Redwing calling through the gloom at Millfields first thing and 10+ in Sheepwash woods. At Sheepwash: 2 Dunlin. A late Common Sandpiper. Adult Caspian Gull. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. 225 Common Gulls. The roost held in excess of 2'000+ each of both BHG and LBBG.13/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe first Fieldfare of the autumn was on Stones island this morning, and at least 2 more in WLC creek. At least 20 Redwing there too. At one point there were 5 species of thrush in one tree (sadly no Ring Ouzel). Cetti's Warbler and Water Rail still in Hopton reedbed. The Oystercatcher and adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 3 Little Egrets flew in and landed below the dam wall.13/10/2025
Simon RoddisMonthly wildfowl count: 240 Canada, 195 Greylags, 3 Mute Swans, 9 Gadwall, 24 Wigeon, 143 Mallard, 2 Pintail, 162 Teal, 3 Pochard, 110 Tufted, 5 Moorhen, 4(!) Coot, 6 Little Grebe, 38 Great Crests, 1 Oystercatcher, 31 Cormorant, 2 Little Egret, 6 Grey Heron, 1 Kingfisher. (Compare those numbers with last month, the low water level clearly proved too much for a lot of birds.) Cetti's Warbler still in Hopton reedbed. 50 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 10:18. 12+ Crossbills over Hall Wood. Seem to be more Blackbirds around, at least 10 on Stones.12/10/2025
Simon RoddisA Brambling was among the Linnets, Goldfinches and Meadow Pipits on Watersports island this morning. c2,500 Black-headed Gulls from Millfields first thing, and a flock of 21 Ravens flew E. The Great Egret, Oystercatcher, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still present. 2 redhead Goosander.11/10/2025
Dave Armitt5 Grey Heron, 19 Cormorant, 8 Pochard, 4 Wigeon, 30 Teal, 2 Raven, 2 Jay, 30 Meadow Pipit, 40 Goldfinch, 1 Great White Egret , 1 Peregrine, 1 Red Kite,4 Greylag10/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cetti's Warbler was still in Hopton reedbed this morning. 140 Pink-footed Geese flew E at 10:28. 3 Pintail still. 2 redhead Goosander. c4,000 Lesser Black-backs and 370 Common Gulls flew out over WLC creek early morning. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. Great Egret at sailing club. 2 Stonechats in Tail Bay. Totals of 7 Skylark, 6 Chiffchaff, 30 Starling SW, 14 Bullfinch (8 at Penn Carr), 35 Goldfinch, 20 Siskin, 2 Crossbill.10/10/2025
Simon RoddisA pretty decent morning. A Cetti's Warbler was singing in Hopton reedbed early on, with Water Rail also calling there and Crossbill and a redhead Goosander over. 2 Whooper Swans, the Grey Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Pintail, adult Caspian Gull and Great Egret were on the shore off Lane End/Sheepwash. 48 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 08:30. The Oystercatcher was still at Watersports and 6 Lapwing, 6 Ringed Plover and 3 Dunlin at sailing club. Male Peregrine on his favourite pylon. 18 Skylarks included a flock of 13 S. Stonechat and Wheatear at the sailing club end of the dam wall.08/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe Grey Plover and Black-tailed Godwit were still at Lane End this morning, and 4 Ringed Plover there and later at sailing club. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls. 115 Common Gulls flew out early morning. 3 Pintail. 2 Pochard. 2 Great Egrets at Watersports, but only 1 Little Egret. Totals of 6 Collared Doves, 9 Skylarks, 6 Greenfinch, 20 Linnets, 16 Redpoll and 65 Siskin. Roger and Alison had 10 Whooper Swans fly SE early on.07/10/2025
Dave NewcombeA Marsh Harrier (looked like a juvenile) came over from the east and continued west with several Gulls giving it some attention. 4 Red Kites. One over hall wood, and another 3 first appeared over Millfields before slowly drifting north towards hopton end. Peregrine. Kestrel. 3 Buzzards and a female Sparrowhawk enjoying the warm autumn sunshine. The 6 Whooper Swans were still viewable from Sheepwash at 18.30. 13 Linnets on the dam wall.06/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe Grey Plover was still between Sheepwash and Lane End this morning, and the Little Stint at sailing club. 6 Whooper Swans arrived mid-morning (apparently as a 4 and a 2). Long-stayers included the Great Egret, Oystercatcher and adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls. A bit of movement included (mostly in an hour on Hays Lane) 55 Chaffinch, 12 Crossbills, 7 Redpoll, 16 Siskin, 41 Meadow Pipits, 12 Skylarks, 13 Woodpigeon and 7 Stock Dove. 3 Pintail. Total of 10 Dunlin, 3 Ringed Plover and the Black-tailed Godwit also reportedly still here. At Hopton end first thing, 2 calling Tawny Owls and Water Rail.06/10/2025
Gary AtkinsSpecies recorded during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island-Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Robin, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Magpie, Woodpigeon, Mallard, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Gull, Great Egret, Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Kestrel, Tufted Duck, Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Wigeon, Gadwall, Teal, Little Grebe, Gt Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Dunlin, Grey Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Green Sandpiper, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Long-tailed Tit, Willow Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coot05/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Grey Plover (found by Richard L at Sheepwash yesterday) was at Lane End this morning and the Little Stint again at sailing club. Other waders were single Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Little Ringed Plover, Black-tailed Godwit and Green Sandpiper (again at WLC), 4 Dunlin and 5 Ringed Plovers. 68 Wigeon. 5 Pintail. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Great Egret still. Wheatear below the dam wall (sailing club end, found by Mike R).05/10/2025
Simon RoddisThe juvenile Little Stint was again at the sailing club end of the dam wall this morning, along with the 3 Dunlin, 5 Ringed and 1 Little Ringed Plover. Oystercatcher still at Watersports and Black-tailed Godwit at Lane End. Rock Pipit(s?) flew over Stones island and the dam wall. Juvenile Common Tern and Great Egret still. c100 Common Gulls off Sheepwash first thing. 70 Meadow Pipits, 80 Goldfinch and 2 Snipe at WLC. 40 Siskins over the main carpark.03/10/2025
Simon RoddisA juvenile Little Stint was at sailing club this morning; it later flew towards Millfields with 3 Dunlin, 5 Ringed and 1 Little Ringed Plover. A Green Sandpiper was at the WLC and the Black-tailed Godwit still at Lane End. Nice juvenile-type Wheatear on the dam wall. Great Egret, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls all still present.02/10/2025
Simon RoddisSeveral late/long-stayers were still around this morning: Great Egret, Black-tailed Godwit, Oystercatcher, Little Ringed Plover, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, Common Tern. Finally caught up with 2 Stonechats from Sheepwash hide. At Lane End, 450 Teal, 3 Pintail and 21 Wigeon.01/10/2025
Simon RoddisA Rock Pipit flew S over Stones causeway at 09:55, typical autumn date. Off Stones island first thing, 2,000 Black-headed and 75 Common Gulls. Just 2 Pintail this morning, and 35 Wigeon. Long-stayers included the Great Egret, Common Tern, Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Ringed Plover and 3 Dunlin. 12 Skylarks over. c60 Linnets at sailing club and 10 Redpoll in WLC creek.30/09/2025
Dave NewcombeIn addition to Simon's earlier post. No sign of the recent Cattle Egret in its usual spots, despite several observers on site. 8 Grey Herons. 16 Pintail. 5 at Lane End + the 11 Simon found earlier. 3 Shoveler. Just 3 Lapwings. Peregrine and Red Kite at Sheepwash. A single Snipe there was hunkered down and seemingly invisible to the above Peregrine c20 yards away. The Snipe then took off and the Peregrine gave chase. Outcome unknown. 4 Stonechats at Sheepwash around the large boulders. Still 5 Chiffchaff including one in song. Kingfisher at Paul Stanley. The gull roost held 4'500 possibly 5'000 LBB Gulls. Adult Caspian Gull. 2 adult YLGulls. I was counting Common Gulls on the point to the right of Sheepwash. I got to 66 when they all took off. Numbers probably exceeded over 100. Not many BHGulls in.29/09/2025
Simon RoddisBird of the morning was a juvenile Black Tern which Dave Newcombe found off Millfields, still there to 09:00 at least. Juvenile Common Tern still too. 2 Redwing, Water Rail and Crossbill at Hopton reedbed early morning. 11 Pintail off Stones and 42 Wigeon at Sheepwash. Black-tailed Godwit again between Sheepwash and Lane End, and 6 Ringed, juvenile Little Ringed Plover and 3 Dunlin at sailing club. Great Egret still. 14 Common Gulls. 2 Willow Tits on Stones and 18+ Skylarks over, including a flock of 12 S. Wheatear on the dam wall. 8+ Redpoll.29/09/2025
Dave ArmittEarly afternoon visit 20 Meadow Pipit,8 little Grebe, 3 Grey Heron,1 Great White Egret, 50 Pied Wagtail, 1 Cattle Egret between sailing club and visitor centre catching insects, 3 Dunlin, 3 LRP, 2 Lapwing, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Garganey Wildlife Centre bay amongst the Mallards28/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret was still around Watersports this morning, plus a Great and 6 Little Egrets elsewhere around the res. The first Redwing of the autumn, plus 4 Crossbills, 4 Skylarks and a redhead Goosander, flew over Stones island. 7 Ringed Plover, juvenile Little Ringed and a Dunlin at sailing club and the Oystercatcher still at Watersports. c1,000 Jackdaws out of their roost early morning, 200 Pied Wagtails on the dam wall and a total of 30+ Siskins.27/09/2025
Neil Moulden (NJM)Cattle Egret still present, 3 Common Scoter off Stones Island at 10.20 hrs, 9 Ringed Plover and 5 Dunlin at Sailing Club.25/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Little Stint was still present this morning, initially at Millfields then flying to sailing club. The Cattle Egret was again around Watersports and adult Caspian Gull on the shore at Lane End. 3 Dunlin and 9 Ringed Plovers. Single Oystercatcher and Common Tern still. Tawny Owl and Kingfisher at Millfields first thing. Willow Tits on Stones and in WLC creek. Wheatear on the dam wall. Total of at least 100 Meadow Pipits. Redpolls over Stones and WLC creek.22/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret and Oystercatcher were at Watersports again early morning. At Millfields, 14 Ringed Plover, 6 Dunlin, Great Egret and Yellow Wagtail. Peregrine on pylon beyond WLC creek. At Sheepwash, single Red-crested Pochard and Pintail, 35 Wigeon, 25 Pochard and adult Yellow-legged and Great Black-backed Gulls.20/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret and Oystercatcher were still at Watersports this morning (and presumably the same Oystercatcher later at Millfields with 4 Dunlin and 15 Ringed Plover, per CA). Less movement than I'd have expected: 30 Swallows, 16 House Martins, 63 Meadow Pipits, 20 Linnet, 48 Siskin and a Redpoll. Mistle Thrush singing at Sheepwash.19/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret was again at Watersports early this morning. Vismig 0630-0900: 1 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 133 Swallows, 15 House Martins, 2 Grey Wagtails, 217 Meadow Pipits, 5 Chaffinch and 16 Siskin, all S or SW. 6 Pintail, 3 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers and adult Caspian Gull at Sheepwash. 15 Ringed Plovers at Millfields.18/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe Cattle Egret was feeding on Watersports island early afternoon. 5 Pintail, 3 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers, single Common and Herring Gulls and 3 Yellow-legs at Sheepwash. 7 Ringed Plovers at Millfields. 2 Yellow Wagtails (Sheepwash and Millfields).17/09/2025
Simon RoddisEvening visit: 5,250 Lesser Black-backed Gulls came in to roost. 37 Barnacle Geese at Sheepwash (the feral flock returns!). Hobby over sailing club at dusk. 1 Ruff. 100 Swallows. The Cattle Egret reportedly still present.16/09/2025
Simon RoddisYesterday's Cattle Egret was at sailing club late morning, feeding well. Looked much happier than it did yesterday! A mobile female Common Scoter landed in front of Sheepwash early morning but flew to Fishtail and then towards the dam wall. 105 Greylags, 6 Pintail still and one female Red-crested Pochard. 1 Curlew flew N. Adult Caspian Gull from Lane End hide. Yellow Wagtail at sailing club.16/09/2025
Simon RoddisA site record 970 Teal this morning, over 900 of them at Millfields alone. Other duck included 7 Pintail, at least 18 Shoveler and 26 Wigeon, and a female Red-crested Pochard. 10 redhead Goosander flew up the res early morning. 76 Greylags. 18 Ringed Plovers (most of them juvs) at Millfields late morning. The juvenile Oystercatcher still, 2 Ruff and a Common Sandpiper. Adult Caspian Gull still. 50+ House Martins flew through. 70+ Meadow Pipits. First Redpoll of the autumn over Sheepwash. Clive had a Whinchat at sailing club mid-morning until it was flushed.14/09/2025
Neil Moulden (NJM)Osprey from Sheepwash Hide at 17.20 hours for 10 minutes before flying off towards the dam.12/09/2025
Simon RoddisAround 700 Teal were at Millfields this morning, plus the 6 Pintail and 11 Ringed Plovers. Oystercatcher still on Horseshoe island, 1 Snipe, 1 Ruff and 2 Common Sandpipers. 2 juvenile Common Terns still. 3 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Great Egret still. A bit of movement, with a total of 68 Meadow Pipits, 2 Yellow Wagtails, 20 Siskin, 4 Linnet and 3 Crossbills.13/09/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonNo sign of the ibises or yesterday's Manx Shearwater this morning. 33 Shoveler, 31 Wigeon and 3 Pintail at Sheepwash. Total of 6 Ringed and 4 Little Ringed Plovers. 1 Common Sandpiper and 2 Ruff. 2 juvenile Common Terns. Great Egret still. Pair of Peregrines playing with a Buzzard. 2 Willow Tits on Stones. Female/juv Wheatear at sailing club.12/09/2025
Dave Newcombe/Chris BrownManx Shearwater found on water at Sheepwash c17.50hrs. It was drifting and doing some flapping but was still present from Sheepwash car park c19.15 per Clive Ashton.11/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe 2 Glossy Ibises were still in front of Sheepwash hide this morning. 6 Pintail. 1 Red-crested Pochard. Single Ringed plover and Ruff. 3 probable Black-tailed Godwits briefly over Stones. Great Egret on Horseshoe island. Adult and juvenile Common Terns and 2 juvenile Arctics.10/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe 2 Glossy Ibises were still at Sheepwash this evening. 21 Wigeon. Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit from Sheepwash hide. c4,000 Lesser Black-backs came in to roost by 8pm. Adult Caspian, 5 Yellow-legged, 2 Common and 500 Black-headed Gulls.09/09/2025
Simon RoddisCarsi joined in the Glossy Ibis fun this morning, with 2 from Sheepwash hide, looking fairly settled to 11:00 at least. Earlier on, 507 Pied (site record) and 1 Yellow Wagtail left their roost on Watersports island. Supporting cast of 3 Shelduck, 4 Pintail, 7 Wigeon, 2+ Red-crested Pochard, 8 Lapwing and 2 Ruff at Sheepwash, Redshank at sailing club and Greenshank over WLC creek, 2 Common Terns and 23 Little Egrets.08/09/2025
Amanda PalethorpeBird walk for beginners. House sparrow, great egret, little egret, cormorant, mute swan, Canada goose, great crested grebe, black-headed gull, pied wagtail, carrion crow, buzzard, lesser black-backed gull, red kite, chiffchaff, goldfinch , swallow, oystercatcher, common gull, greylag goose, blue tit, great tit, coot, moorhen, woodpigeon, gadwall, greenfinch, long-tailed tit, robin, little grebe, mallard, tufted duck07/09/2025
Simon Roddis, Jon BradleyMonthly wildfowl count: 87 Canada, 89 Greylags, 21 Mute Swan plus 4 cygnets, 1 Shelduck, 40 Shoveler, 66 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, 380 Mallard, 518 Teal, 3 Red-crested Pochard, 84 Common Pochard, 236 Tufted, 1,343 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 29 Little Grebe, 36 GCGrebe, 5 Ringed and 3 Little Ringed Plovers, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 3 Greenshank, 1 Dunlin, 2 Common Terns, 64 Cormorants, 21 Little and 1 Great Egret, 10 Herons. 7 Curlew flew W.07/09/2025
Richard LoweOf special note from Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: Garganey (1) with Teal just off the shoreline in front of the hide; Pintail (2); YLGull (4) ads; GBBGull (1) ad; Common Gull (1) ad;06/09/2025
Simon RoddisA steady morning, but nothing exceptional. Wildfowl included 760 Canadas, 59 Greylags, 22 Mute Swans plus 4 cygnets, 1 Shelduck, 15 Shoveler, 380 Teal, 1 Red-crested Pochard and 34 Common Pochard. The Great Egret still. Kingfisher on the dam wall and Peregrine on pylon beyond WLC creek. Total of 9 Jays. At least 60 Swallows and 50 House Martins. Yellow Wagtail over Millfields. Totals of c35 Siskin and 200 Goldfinch.06/09/2025
Simon RoddisThe ringed Osprey was around again this morning, seen by Clive early on at Sheepwash and presumably the same bird later flying down the reservoir. At least 2 Pintail still, the juvenile Shelduck, 4 Red-crested Pochard and 400+ Teal at Millfields. Waders included 4 Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Ruff and 2 Greenshank. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 22 Little Egrets. Kingfisher below Middle Wood. Hirundines included a minimum of 85 Swallows and 100 House Martins. Reed Warbler still in Hopton reedbed and 2 Lesser Whitethroats in WLC fields. 1 Yellow Wagtail over and 18 Meadow Pipits heading south.05/09/2025


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
2007-04-151 Great Northern Diver (Lane Ends) 1 Common Scoter (Drake) (Brick Tower), Plenty of Chiffchaff between Sheepwash CPk and Shiningford Creek. 2 Willow Warblers in same area as well as several Blackcaps singing. 14 Barnacle Geese, 2 Cackling Geese, Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Reed Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Blue and Great Tits etc all showing well at the Lane Ends feeding station. Steph' & Paul Hicking
2007-04-14Millfields: 2 Nuthatch, 3 Willow Warblers, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Blackcap (male), 2 Long-tailed tits, 8 Blue Tits, 2 Coal Tits, 4 Great Tits, 12 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Song Thrush. Wildlife Centre 1 Little Ringed Plover, 12 Lapwing, 3 Redshank, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff. Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-04-142 Little Gulls 1 Shelduck 1 Blackcap 3 Willow Warblers 2 Little Ringed Plover 1 Dunlin 1 Common Sandpiper 13 Bullfinches 2 Cackling Geese 1 Reed Bunting 1 Great Nortern DiverOliver Simms
2007-04-122 Chifchaffs-Behind Sheepwash Hide 1 Pheasant-Male In between Sheepwash & Paul Stanley Hides 1 Shelduck-Behind Sheepwash Spit 1 Great Northern Diver-Sheepwash Hide 1 Jay-Behind Paul Stanley Hide 4 Reed Bunting-3 males and 1 female on Paul Stanley Hide feeders 2 Willow Tits-In between Sheepwash and Pual Satanley HideSam Pedley
2007-04-1241 species today plus seagulls Paul Stanley hide Two Oystercatchers only 15ft from the hide Grey Herron,Chiffchaffs, 2 Jays Stones island Black Cap,2 Cackling Geese, 4 Barnacle Geese, Willow Warbler, Greenfinch, long tailed tits, tree sparrows Wildlife Centre 3 Gadwall, 2 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Bulfinches on the feeder 2 redshankJulian and Caroline Walters
2007-04-101 Great Northern Diver off Stones Island early morning. 1 Willow Warbler at Wildlife Centre. 3 Willow Warbler at Millfields. 2 Blackcaps singing on Stones Island. 2 Little-ringed Plover at Wildlife Centre. 30+ Sand Martin and 20 Swallows through this morning.Roger Carrington
2007-04-08highlights from this morning - Millfields: 4 nuthatch, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Robin, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Coal Tit, 5 Blue tit, 2 Great tit, 1 Wren, 2 Blackbird. Dam: 2 Barnacle geese, 2 Cackling Geese. Stones Island: 1 Little Ringed Plover (in front of sailing club), 3 Redshank, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Barnacle Geese, 2 Bullfinch, 2 song Thrush, 3 Goldeneye (2 male, 1 female - one of the males was displaying). Wildlife Centre: 1 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Redshank, 2 Chiffchaff.Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-04-08Was out sailing on the lake from the visitor centre. Great Northern Diver still in the lake. I saw it just past the small island offshore from the watersports centre, still in winter plumage with white throat.Graham Taylor
2007-04-081 Great Northern Diver still present in centre of reservoir. Plenty (c.10) of Chiffchaffs singing between Millfields and Oldfield Lane. 1 Blackcap singing in same area, 15+ Lesser Black Backs flying through at c.1.30pm. Goldcrest singing (stone shelter) Nuthatch on territory in usual areas. Several Brimstone Butterflies Millfields-Oldfield Lane. Steph' and Paul Hicking
2007-04-071 Little Ringed Plover-On Horseshoe Island 6 Reed Buntings-2 males on the Wildlife Centre Feeders and 2 males and 2 females on Stones Island 1 Chiffchaff-Near the Wildlife Centre 1 Snipe-From the Wildlife CentreSam Pedley
2007-04-06Millfields: 4 Nuthatch, 2 Coal Tit, 1 Marsh Tit, 2 Chiffchaff, female Goosander, 2 Redshank (mating), 2 Oystercatchers, 6 Long-tailed tits, 2 Raven, 1 buzzard. Wildlife Centre: 2 Redshank, 2 Oystercatcher, 3 Snipe, 2 Bullfinch, 2 Wigeon, 12 Tree sparrows, Chiffchaff. Paul Stanley: Tawny Owl, 2 Oystercatchers (mating), 2 Coal Tits, 2 Reed Buntings, Chiffchaff.Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-04-044 Wigeons-3 Males and 1 Female from the Wildlife Centre 2 Ravens-Flew over the Wildlife Centre 1 Little Owl-On a fence post near the pylon from the Wildlife Centre 4 Redshanks-On Horseshoe Island 1 Reed Bunting-On the Wildlife Centre Feeders 1 Oystercatcher-On Horseshoe Island 1 Cackling Canada Goose-With Barnacle Geese in a field to the left of the Wildlife Centre 4 Buzzards-Circling over the Vistor Centre Car Park calling 2 Swallows-Flying around the Visitor Centre 1 Chiffchaff-In a tree near the Wildlife Centre + many more singingSam Pedley
2007-04-03Male Blackcap singing in bushes at Millfields end of the Dam Wall this morning, and still no willow warblers! 12 Swallows perched on a small tree on Stones Island, 25 Sand Martins around Stones Island.Roger Carrington
2007-04-01Sunny, but cold day. Millfields: 4 Nuthatch, 2 Chiffchaff (singing) Wildlife Centre: Great Northern Diver, 10 Wigeon, 7 Snipe, 3 Redshank, 22 Barnacle Geese, 15 Lapwing, 1 Little Owl, 2 Great Crested Grebe. Paul Stanley: Great Northern Diver, Pied Wagtail, Reed Bunting, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Willow Tit, Treecreeper, Tawny Owl, Coal Tit. Sheepwash Car Park: 5 Bullfinch (2 male, 3 female), Reed Bunting. Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-03-29A cold day- so it was ironic that the first Swallows should show up. Myself and Dave Newcombe saw one on Stones Island and 4 more towards Lane End (from Sheepwash). We also saw 2 Great Northern Divers from Sheepwash. Other sightings of note:9 Goldeneye,at least 5 Buzzard,2 Raven and 10 Reed Buntings.Clive Ashton
2007-03-28On site around midday. Sunny and warm. No wind. Main points of observation: Stones Island, the Wildlife Centre (WC) and around WC Creek. 37 species of bird identified. Of Note: Cackling Goose (1), Barnacle Goose (41), Wigeon (2), Snipe (2), Redshank (2), Redwing (1) - foraging for food under a hedge close to the footpath near the WC, totally oblivious of passing walkers only 5 feet away; Song Thrush (2), Chiffchaff (3), Bullfinch (one male) and Reed Bunting (2 males).Ray and Margaret Perry
2007-03-2844 species seen today including Sheepwash 9:00 Great Northern Diver moving away towards the dam about 30 widgeon, 1 chiffchaff, 2 song thrush, pochard 2 Jays flew over Paul Stanley 10:30 Oyster catcher, 2 reed buntings, 1 great spotted wood pecker, red shank WildLife Centre 13:00 small numbers of lapwing, 5 snipe, 2 oyster catchers, 2 gadwall, 5 red shank, reed buntings Stones island 15:00 Great Northern Diver moving towards millfields this time 6 pied wagtail Julian and Frank Walters
2007-03-28A beautiful spring day at Carsington for the usual Tuesday Aren't birds brilliant! event. Plenty of Chiffchaffs singing but no sign of a hoped for Sand Martin. A Great Northern Diver spent prolongued periods in front of the Wildlife Centre giving excellent views as it at times slept or preened near the tern rafts. And, there are definitely two birds still present on site with sightings of both at different parts of the reservoir. Bullfinches are very easy to see at the moment and both male and female reed buntings visited the feeder station. 17 Snipe were flushed by a ranger work party on Sheepwash spit and there were 4 on horseshoe island. 31 Curlew flew onto Horseshoe island at the end of day and could be heard calling well after dark. Both Little Owls were out and about but they have become a bit more elusive of late.Matthew Capper
2007-03-26Millfields: 2 Bullfinch, 4 Wren, 8 Dunnock, 4 Pied Wagtail, 2 Goldfinch, 1 Coal Tit, 2 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Nuthatch, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker(h/o), 1 Oystercatcher, 10 Barnacle Geese. Stones Island: 22 Barnacle Geese, 2 Redshank, 3 Redwing, 43 Wigeon, 12 Goldfinch, 32 Whooper Swans (flying north over Visitor Centre @ 10.15am). Wildlife Centre: 2 Long-tailed tit, 22 Barnacle Geese, 2 Cackling Geese, 1 Reed Bunting, 1 Gadwall. Paul Stanley: 1 Tawny Owl, 2 Reed Bunting, 1 Greylag Goose, 40 Wigeon, 2 Dunnock, 1 Male Great Spotted woodpecker, 1 Wren.Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-03-2430+Whooper Swans flew over the Visitors Centre Mid Morning 1 Little Owl on a post near the Pylon from the Wildlife Centre 1 Gadwall from the Wildlife Centre 4 Redshanks from the Wildlife Centre 1 Cackling Goose in a field near the Main Car ParkSam Pedley
2007-03-21Fairly quiet on site today. Sunny but cold. 33 species seen around midday. Main viewing points: Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre. OF NOTE: Two male Mute Swans engaged in battle on the water close to the Water Sports Centre. Barnacle Goose (32), Gadwall (4), Oystercatcher (2), Lapwing - just a handful, Redshank (2), Chiffchaff (3) - Stones Island. Lesser Celandine is in flower by the Wildlife Centre pond.Ray and Margaret Perry
2007-03-2140 species seen from the Wildlife Centre today. Nothing startling but 21 Curlew early on, both Bullfinch and Reed Bunting on the feeders, cackling geese still in with the Barnacles and several snipe, redshank and oystercatchers.Matthew Capper
2007-03-20The March WeBS count : 1 Great Northern Diver 31 Little Grebe 29 Great Crested Grebe 20 Cormorant 11 Mute Swan 1 Greylag Goose 159 Canada Goose 34 Barnacle Goose 92 Wigeon 3 Gadwall 1 Teal 62 Mallard 236 Tufted Duck 12 Goldeneye 39 Moorhen 215 Coot 10 Oystercatcher 13 Lapwing 9 Snipe 18 Curlew 6 RedshankPeter Gibbon and John Bradley
2007-03-17Millfields: 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Nuthatch, 8 Long tailed Tit, 4 Little Grebe, 14 Great Crested Grebe (together). Wildlife Centre: 32 Barnacle Geese, 1 Cackling Goose, 8 Snipe, 3 Redshank, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Oystercatcher Paul Stanley: 1 Snipe, 1 Pied Wagtail, 2 Willow Tit, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker (M), 2 Reed Bunting, 1 Chiffchaff. Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-03-16Just returned from a walk around the reservior, and have seen my first Sand Martin (16:00 hrs 16/3/07) over the water on the dam, by the sailing club.David Naylor
2007-03-134 Little Gulls (at 1pm), Chiffchaff and Willow warbler reported on the Birdnet pager system today.Steph Hicking
2007-03-12Millfields: Treecreeper(1),Nuthatch(2),Coal Tit(2),Willow Tit(2),Bullfinch(2), Song Thrush(2),Wren,Chiffchaff(1), Pheasant, Goldfinch(3), Dunnock, Canada Geese(20),Mute Swan(2). Wildlife Centre - A quiet day at the Wildlife Centre - for obvious reasons. Redshank(3),Cackling Goose,Barnacle Geese(12),Greenfinch(4),Reed Bunting(2),Oystercatcher(2),Tree Sparrow(2),Snipe(2),Canada Geese(70),Wigeon(4),Chaffinch(8),Wren,Collared dove(1),Long-tailed Tit(2). Paul Stanley Greylag Goose(1),Tawny Owl(1 - heard only),Great Northern Diver(1),Coal Tit,Great Spotted Woodpecker(M and F),Cormorant(18),Herring Gull(4),Lesser Black Backed Gull(15),Willow Tit,Reed Bunting(2),Snipe(4),Pied Wagtail(2),Grey Wagtail(1),Grey Heron,Curlew(12),Kingfisher(1),Buzzard(5),Little Grebe(2). Richard and FRances Pittam
2007-03-10A bright, sunny day today. Highlights - Millfields: Great Northern Diver (plumage is beginning to change), Nuthatch, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, GS Woodpecker, Goldeneye (2), Little Grebe, Wren, Goldcrest, 12 Great Crested Grebe together. Stones Island: Barnacle Goose, Redshank, Oystercatcher (2) Wildlife Centre: Willow tit, Lapwing, Barnacle Geeese (25), Cackling Goose (1), Gadwall (2), Snipe (2), Great Crested Grebe(2), Wigeon (3), Teal (2). Sheepwash: Curlew (1), Goldeneye (3), Kingfisher, Lesser Black Backed Gull (50), Cormorant (18), Wigeon (6). Sheepwash Car Park Feeder: Bullfinch (6), Reed Bunting (2)Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-03-09A nice surprise this morning on Stones Island were 24 Bewick`s Swans. Also present was a singing Chiffchaff. C30 Curlew around Sheepwash, and a Black Tailed Godwit on Horseshoe Island. Clive Ashton
2007-03-08Very quiet on site today. 32 species counted around midday. OF NOTE - Wigeon (4), Gadwall (1), Oystercatcher (4), Curlew (1), Redshank (2), Reed Bunting (2 males), CHIFFCHAFF (1) - singing on Stones Island - First reported in the logbook on the 3rd. Two Moorhens fought a vicious battle for 10 minutes by the water's edge in front of the Wildlife Centre. In addition 10 Coots were in continuous skirmishes in the same area but were less severe fights than those of the Moorhens. Catkins and Pussy Willow is now very evident. A single Daisy was spotted and a small patch of Coltsfoot was found on Stones Island.Ray and Margaret Perry
2007-03-03Sheepwash Hide: 27 Curlew, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Curlew Sandpiper,Goldeneye,Wigeon,Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe,Tufted Duck and Tawney Owl (seen in woodland along path from Sheepwash Hide. Paul Stanley Hide: Finally saw the Great Northern Diver and watched this for an hour. Saw numerous Balck Headed and Lesser Black Backed Gulls and 17+ Cormorants.Dean Powell
2007-03-03Millfields (0815h): 2 Bullfinch, 3 Great Tit, 2 Nuthatch, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker (heard), 1 Pied Wagtail, 1 Great Northern Diver, 2 Dunnock, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Oystercatcher. Stones Island (0915h): 35 Barnacle Geese, 9 Curlew, 3 Cackling Geese, 55 Canada Geese, 3 Redshank, 2 dunnock, 3 Robin, 1 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 4 Great Crested Grebe. Wildlife Centre (1030h): 35 Lapwing, 3 Redshank, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Owl, 65 Canada Geese, 12 Moorhen, 1 Dunnock, 3 wigeon, 6 Snipe, 1 Oystercatcher, 2 Gadwall. Paul Stanley (12.00h): 1 Goldcrest, 3 Goldeneye (1m, 2f), 35 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 12 Little Grebe, 25 Tufted duck, 17 Cormorant, 2 Teal, 1 Great Northern Diver, 7 Curlew.Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-03-03No messageNeil Venables
2007-03-033 Shovelers-2 males and 1 female from Wildlife Centre 3 Cackling Canada Geese-Horseshoe Island and then flew into a field 3+Redshanks-Wildlife Centre 2 Oystercatchers-Wildlife Centre 1 Falcon sp-Flew over the Horsehoe Island very HighSam Pedley
2007-03-012 Great Northern Divers seen today,one at Millfields the other at Sheepwash.The Diver at Sheepwash was heard to call on one occassion it was also noted feeding on what appeared to be some kind of molluscs? Curlew were noted throughout the day arond the reservoir, with a maximum count of 51 at the Wildlife Centre at 17:00Hr. Numerous Geese at the Wildlife Centre, including c40 Barnacle,3 Cackling and 1 Greylag. Also of note were 1 Male Shoveler,a male Sparrowhawk,8 Oystercatcher and 9 Goldeneye.Clive Ashton
2007-03-01Two Great Northern Divers seen from Sheepwash car park at 12:30, then flew up to dam at 14:30.David Goodwin
2007-02-28At least 45 species seen Highlights Wildlife center 10.005 Oystercatchers, Redshank, 21 Wigeon, 2 Snipe, Many Lapwing, Kestrel, 25 Gadwall Lane End Feeders 10:45 Male bullfinch, Goldcrest, 30 Tree SparrowsSheepwashRedshank, 12 Goldeneye Paul Stanley 11:45 Redshank, 10 Goldeneye, 2 Herring Gull, Willow Tit, Great Spotted WoodpeckerReported Black necked Grebe, Kingfisher Wildlife Center 12:30 Poss Little Owl, 25 Collared DoveOliver Simms
2007-02-2845 species seen Highlights Wildlife center 10.005 Oystercatchers, Redshank, 21 Wigeon, 2 Snipe, Many Lapwing, Kestrel, 25 Gadwall Lane End Feeders 10:45 Male bullfinch, Goldcrest, 30 Tree SparrowsSheepwashRedshank, 12 Goldeneye Paul Stanley 11:45 Redshank, 10 Goldeneye, 2 Herring Gull, Willow Tit, Great Spotted WoodpeckerReported Black necked Grebe, Kingfisher Wildlife Center 12:30 Poss Little Owl, 25 Collared DoveOliver Simms
2007-02-23Adult Mediterranean Gull, 4 Curlew,4 Snipe,2 Great Northern Divers,3 Cackling Geese and several Oystercatchers and Redshank all seen from the Wildlife Centre. Wildfowl numbers much reduced, 6 Goldeneye, c30 Wigeon, c10 Teal, 4 Gadwall, 2 Pochard from various areas. Quite a few Reed Buntings around with several singing in the Paul Stanley area. Also c100 Redwing were around Shiningford Farm.Clive Ashton
2007-02-20WeBS count for Sunday 18th February was as follows: 2 Great Northern Divers, 77 Little Grebe, 50 Great Crested Grebe, 21 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 8 Mute Swan, 201 Canada Geese, 33 Barnacle Geese, 106 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 21 Teal, 94 Mallard, 1 Shoveler, 13 Pochard, 68 Moorhen, 486 Coot, 6 Oystercatcher, 227 Lapwing, 4 Snipe, 2 Redhank. Peter Gibbon and John Bradley
2007-02-20WeBS count for Sunday 18th February was as follows: 2 Great Northern Divers, 77 Little Grebe, 50 Great Crested Grebe, 21 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 8 Mute Swan, 201 Canada Geese, 33 Barnacle Geese, 106 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 21 Teal, 94 Mallard, 1 Shoveler, 13 Pochard, 68 Moorhen, 486 Coot, 6 Oystercatcher, 227 Lapwing, 4 Snipe, 2 Redhank.Peter Gibbon and John Bradley
2007-02-19From the Wildlife Centre: 48 Barnacle Geese. 3 Cackling (small race) Canada GeeseRichard Pittam
2007-02-19Stones Island: 4 Bullfinches (2M, 2F). Wildlife Centre: 6 Oystercatchers plus 2-300 Lapwing giving good displays against the winter sun. Also 2 Redshank. Paul Stanley: 1 Snipe, 1 Pied Wagtail, 1 Willow Tit Richard Pittam
2007-02-19Adult Mediterranean Gull this afternoon from Sheepwash hide,also Great Northern Diver seen at Sheepwash and Wildlife Centre.Clive Ashton
2007-02-192 GN Divers still on the Reservoir today, both seen from the WLC together, during the ABB/STW and Radio Derby nest box event, 1 drake Shoveler, 3+ Oystercatchers, 4+ Snipe where amongst the other highlights seen by the CBC and RSPB volunteers from the WLC. The Kirk Ireton Starlings seem to me to be dropping slightly in numbers, but are still putting on a good acrobatic display from around 4.45pmSteph' Hicking
2007-02-19CORRECTION: Before there is a stampede to Millfields! It was at Lane End Hide and feeder, where the GN Diver and Willow Tits were as discussed in my earlier post from Saturday. Sorry!Tony
2007-02-18Black Swan Andy Gregory and Janet Smith
2007-02-18What a day on Saturday!! Dragged a couple of new to birding friends down from Sheffield and we did the birdhide tour! An astonishing 53 species! Without any Raptors! Paul Stanley first, quiet on the water but then their first GS Woodpecker and Reed Buntings at the feeders. Then Sheepwash Hide and Golden Eye, Teal, Pochard, Redshank, Oyster Catcher etc and a distant GN Diver. Sheepwash Car Park feeder, Bullfinchs a plenty and Reed Buntings. Millfields Hide: Quiet to begin with..then a very close GN Diver showing well for a good 20 minutes!! Millfields Feeders: The other bird they really wanted to see (and unusually not seen around Sheepwash)..of course the Willow Tits!! And many Tree Sparrows. Then Millers Arms for lunch..... Wildlife Centre: Bit quiet as we had seen most birds by then, but great enthusiasm and knowledge on display from many young birders that were in there! Finally, of course, a stroll round the corner and the Little Owl was on his favourite post!! BN Grebe was showing in the bay and returning to the Car Park a Goldcrest almost waving at us!! Fantastic day!! My friends are now completely hooked!! To finish...it was 5pm so I thought.....Hmm I haven''t been to the Starling Roost yet....suggested it they went 'yeh' and as many of you have said on here it was an utterley fantastic display. Tony
2007-02-181 Shoveler-Wildlife Centre 1 Grey Heron-Horseshoe Island 1 Kestrel-Flew over Horseshoe Island 1 Reed Bunting-Wildlife Centre Feeders 2 Oystercather-Wildlife Centre 3 Cackling Canada Goose-With Barnacle Geese behind Wildlife Centre 1 Pheasant-Visitor Centre Car Park 3 Bullfinch-Sheepwash Car Park Feeders 1 Tawny Owl-In big Ivy covered tree near Paul Stanley Hide 1 Great Northern Diver-Sheepwash HideSam Pedley
2007-02-14Kirk Ireton starlings were a little down compared to last night apparantly, but still estimated to be over 30,000 birds! These attracted a Peregrine tonight, and a slightly confused looking Buzzard which was thought to have taken a Starling in flight!Steph' Hicking

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