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
2007-02-14Kirk Ireton starlings still there, no idea how many couldn't think of estimating numbers, but lots. 4.40 to 5.50, most spectacular about 5.20 to 5.40.D Eberlin
2007-02-133 Bullfinch-Sheepwash Wood 1 Grey Wagtail-Sheepwash Hide 1 Treecreeper-Sheepwash Wood 1 Black-Necked Grebe-Paul Stanley Hide 1 Reed Bunting-Paul Stanley Feeders 1 Willow Tit-Paul Stanley Feeders Samn Pedley
2007-02-122 G N Divers from Lane End Hide,at 1450, one fairly close, one distant. Black-necked grebe from P.S.Hide.Alan Lewin
2007-02-110800 to 1130hrs: 1 Black-necked Grebe from PSHide then out of sight probably in Hopton Arm. 1 GNDiver off Stones Island, 1 GND at Millfields. 4 Skylarks flew over the dam wall. 5 Oystercatchers were around Stones Island and WLC areas. 2 Buzzards and 1 Raven over Hall Wood.Roger Carrington
2007-02-07Best guesses at Starlings tonight seemed to range around the 30-50,000 mark, but as Peter Gibbon says its really difficult to count birds as they are spread out over at least four actual roost centres, over at least a square mile, usually in the thick Holly hedges. Several Sparrowhawks were also seen tonight including a bird which dropped a Starling which almost hit myself and several other observers near the village! Steph' Hicking
2007-02-07The Kirk Ireton Starlings at their best about 5pm. To view the full splendour get back a bit. It was spectacular from the top Hulland/Callow(Blind Lane) road to see the gathering with a bemused Buzzard with them but then go down into Kirk Ireton and drive up out towards Callow and up the hill just past the farm/stables with guard dog warning and park. Then look back at close quarters at the display. As for counting I think it is hard to say beacuse so many go down into so many stands of trees. A great spectacle ! Peter Gibbon
2007-02-07Female Blackcap visited my bird table on and off for about 20 minutes from approx 8.30am. I live along Windmill Lane, Ashbourne.Simon Truscott
2007-02-06Sunday 5 feb 2007, 4:30pm. The starlings at Kirk Ireton are amazing there must be 999,999 birds not quite a million because I saw a sparrow hawk take one right in front of me. Sent a mate today who also thought there must be a million. Hope to go again at the weekend. Does anyone have any idea this event will carry on?DALE LEES
2007-02-05The Great Northern Diver was showing well between Watersports and Wildlife Centre first thing. The Little Owl was in the usual spot at lunch time and a couple of Oystercatchers were in a field near Shiningford Bend. Dave Newcombe had a harrier through north this morning. Unfortunatley it was flying against the sun in silhouette so a positive id wasn't possible but a probable Marsh. Dave had lots of other raptor activity with Buzzard and Sparrowhawk showing well and a couple of Raven over as well. Matthew Capper
2007-02-04Sightings included the following:-1 Redshank,5 Snipe,1 Goldeneye,Numerous Black Headed Gull, Teal, Wigeon, Lapwing, Crow, Coot, Moorhen, Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Black Necked Grebe, Herring Gull, Pintail, Tufted Duck, Shoveler, Cormorant, GS Woodpecker, Lesser Black Backed Gull, Robin, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Tree Sparrow, Wren, BlackbirdDean Powell
2007-02-03Highlights from a gloriously sunny day. Millfields: 4 Goosander (2M, 2F), 1 G.N.diver, 3 nuthatch, 1 Treecreeper, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Bullfinch, 1 Redshank, 1 Song Thrush, 8 Redwing, 1 G.S Woodpecker. Paul Stanley: 1 black-necked Grebe, 3 willow tit, 2 Long-tailed tit, 1 Coal Tit, 6 Goldcrest.Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-02-03Brilliant starling roost last night and tonight near Scotland Nurseries at Tansley. Best views from road from the top of 'The Slack' across to Tansley Moor near to Nursery. John Winnard
2007-02-03black necked grebe,cackling geese, tufted ducks, heron, pochard, coots, great crested grebe, little grebe, robin, blackbird, jackdaw, starling, bullfinch, blue tit, great tit, reed bunting, dunnocks, tree sparrows, buzzards,swan, barnacle geese, canada geese, black headed gulls, chaffinchesCarolyn
2007-02-03Lunchtime to Dusk. 9 Common Buzzards on thermals at same time from PSHide. 2 Sparrow Hawk and 2 Raven over Hall Wood. 4 Reed Bunting at Lane End feeders. 4 Shelduck off Lane End. 7 Pintail [4 males] from Millfields. 3 Redshank at Wildlife Centre. 1 Great Northern Diver towards Fishtail. 1 Black-necked Grebe from PSHide. At dusk from Sheepwash Hide, Starling numbers were counted in flocks going south, then again distantly when a Sparrow Hawk attacked the main swarm of starlings in the sky, estimated 30,000 birds.Roger Carrington
2007-02-02A pleasant site visit. Sunny. Viewed only from Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WC). 30 species counted. Of note: Barnacle Goose (19), Gadwall (pair), Kestrel (male), Lapwing (about 250), Redshank (2). Other people's observations for today taken from the WC logbook: Black-necked Grebe (1), Goldeneye (3), Reed Bunting (3 pairs), Jay (1), Willow Tit (2), Bullfinch (20 - from two locations). Ray and Margaret Perry
2007-02-01A quiet day was transformed by the spectacular hunting display given by a Peregrine from Sheepwash hide.The bird was first spotted high above a nervous Lapwing flock,it then made a couple of dives into the flock and managed to take one,which it then dropped onto the water.The Lapwing managed to struggle out of the water and headed for the spit, but the Peregrine came sweeping down and hit it again before appearing to go down with it on the end of the spit.Moments later,mobbed by gulls, the Peregrine appeared minus the Lapwing.The Peregrine headed off towards the draw off tower where it was seen to make several more attempts at the Lapwings,high above the water. CLIVE ASHTON
2007-01-30A relatively quiet day today with 33 species recorded from the Wildlife Centre. Certainly not as many wildfowl sat out in front of the Centre. The diver was reported off Stones Island and the Black Necked Grebe was still showing at Paul Stanley Hide. Geese Included Canada, Cackling, Greylag and Barnacle and a Lesser Redpoll gave very good views near the feeders. Once the Aren't birds brilliant! event had finished I sneaked off with one of the volunteers to Kirk Ireton for the Starling roost. Wow! Got there around 4.30pm but still something to behold. Thousands upon thousands wheeling and swirling. Several sightings of Sparrowhawk including one late on that flew by with a starling in its talons. One Sparrowhawk that won't go hungry tonight.Matthew Capper
2007-01-281 Great Northern Diver still in Millfields area. Good Numbers Redwing in Tail Bay area. 1+ Willow Tits by Millfields Car park. Went for the Kirk Ireton Starling roost, amazing sight, will leave the counting to those better equiped, but tens of thousands present.Paul and Steph' Hicking
2007-01-27Went to view the Starlings at Kirk Ireton tonight,tens of thousands of birds, many of which seemed to drop down S/W of Moor Lane, possibly in the area of Blackwall Plantation? A spectacle well worth seeing.Many thanks for the information provided.Clive Ashton
2007-01-27Adult Mediterranean Gull in roost from Stones Is thie evening. 2 Great Northern Divers, 1 off Stones Is, 1 at Millfields. 1 Black-necked Grebe from PSHide. 6 Shoveler off Stones Is early am. 1 Oystercatcher on Millfields Is. 1 Greylag and 3 Barnacle with Canada Geese at Wildlife Centre.Roger Carrington
2007-01-26GN Diver again near watersports and Black Necked Grebe again from Paul Stanley.Matthew Capper
2007-01-26Many thousands of Starlings coming in to roost at Kirk Ireton.Virtually impossible to count but surely we are talking about 100,000 plus!Mick, Bec Sharp & Les
2007-01-26To add to Roger's details.. 43 species from the Wildlife Centre today including a Redshank to add to Roger's total and 6 snipe. A Shelduck flew across late on - about 4pm. The Diver near the Watersports Island was showing very well on very still calm water. 3 Lesser Redpoll were in the Alders near the Wildlife Centre early morning and 2 Little Owls were making the most of the sun for much of the day. A fox was also seen nea to where the owls were perching.Matthew Capper
2007-01-25This afternoon: 1 Great Northern Diver at Millfields, 1 Great Northern Diver near Watersports Island, 1 Black-necked Grebe at PSHide, 1 Kingfisher at PSHide, Single Redshanks at: Millfields Is, Stones Is, Sheepwash and PSHide. Gull Roost: 70 Herring Gull, 30 Great Black-backed Gulls, LBBG+BHG+CommonG's were spread over the whole water and impossible to count.Roger Carrington
2007-01-2345 species seen from the Wildlife Centre today including the usual suspects - little owl, redshank, 3 snipe 30 Barnacle Geese, 3 Cackling Geese. A male bullfinch gave excellent views on the feeders and a Peregrine put all the wildfowl up as it cruised through at about 12.30pm. The Black Necked Grebe was by the far opposite bank from Paul Stanley Hide and one of the Great Northern Divers was down at that end today also. Both divers are still around - the Bird Club's monthly WeBs count picked up both of them at the weekend. Matthew Capper
2007-01-22a 1st winter Great Northern Diver nr Horseshoe Island (2nd Bird reported in Millfields Bay, plus Black-necked Grebe reported in the top of Hopton arm). 2000+ Lesser Black Backs roosted with 4500 Black headed Gulls. 250+ Common Gulls. 3+ Goldeneye(Sheepwash). 2 Oystercatchers (Sheepwash), 1 Redshank (Sheepwash), 32 Barnacle Geese, 3 Cackling Geese (WLC).Steph' Hicking
2007-01-19In response to the question of a large starling roost. In recent weeks, a flock of many thousands has regularly gathered in the evening NW / over kirk Ireton and the roost can be heard from the village and surrounding lanes.Neil Venables
2007-01-19A massive flock of Starlings flew across the water and on past Sheepwash at 0755hrs, rough estimate 10,000 birds. This has occurred several times over the past few months, does anyone know of a large roost just south of Carsington Water? 1 Black-necked Grebe 0815hrs from PSHide. 3 Reed Buntings on Sheepwash Car Park feeders. 1 Oystercatcher on Stones Island then Sheepwash Spit. I failed to locate any Great Northern Divers this morning.Roger Carrington
2007-01-18Jim Craw was filling the feeders on site this morning and refound the Black Necked Grebe, close in shore from Sheepwash Hide. The Great Northern Diver was still around yesterday (17th) but no reports so far today.Matthew Capper
2007-01-17Very few species located at around midday at or near the Wildlife Centre. Of note and seen from the Wildlife Centre - Redshank (2) and a single Greylag Goose with the Canada Geese.Ray and Margaret Perry
2007-01-1642 species seen from the Wildlife Centre today in generally dank and rainy weather. Best bird was Great Northern Diver which initially showed relatively close to the centre off from Watersports bay. It then moved off and was later seen over towards the dam on the main body of water. A shelduck was around early on, on the far bank from the wildlife centre. 5 snipe circled for a while but only one was seen on the ground and there was also just the one Redshank. The local Little Owl was around for the morning but decided to drop out of sight just as I was about to show it to a visitor. Sods law I suppose! 5 bullfinches were also in the same area as the owl and showed well for a while. Lastly, a kestrel put on fantastic show just before we finished, hovering in full telescope view for several minutes.Matthew Capper (Aren't birds brillaint! Project Officer)
2007-01-15Highlight of the day: c400 Pink-footed Geese flew high (SW)over Wildlife Centre at 10.40am. Wildlife Centre: 2 Redshank, 20 Pochard, 55 Wigeon, 8 Goldfinch, 55 Lapwing, 2 Pied Wagtail, 12 Redwing. Paul Stanley: Both male and female Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Willow tits, 2 Coal Tits, 1 Redshank, 39 Teal, 1 goldeneye (female).Richard, Frances and Ken Pittam
2007-01-151 Oystercatcher on Watersports Island. 1 Shelduck near Watersports Island 1 Great Northern Diver between Millfields and Oldfield Lane close inshore. 4 Redshank. Gull Roost: 5000+ Black-headed Gulls 1400 Lesser Black-backed Gulls 2 immature Great Black-backed Gulls 18 Herring Gulls 2 Adult Yellow-legged Gulls 200 Common Gulls.Roger Carrington
2007-01-14Paul Stanley Hide 9:30 1 Blacknecked grebe in Brownale Bay 2 willow tits on the feeders 10 widgeon and teal Sheepwash hide 10:30 1 redshank a second seen at the wildlife centre 11:30 Sailing club area 13:00 1 oyster catcher 6 gadwall 3 pochard and many wigeon sheepwash Hide 14:30 30 tealCaroline and Julian Walters
2007-01-143 Cackling Geese with around 30 Barnacle Geese - Wildlife Centre 1 Redshank - Wildlife Centre 1 Little Owl - In a bush near the Plyon to the left of the Wildlife Centre 1 Kingfisher - Flew into Wildlife Centre CreekSam Pedley
2007-01-13A mixed morning. 30 species from the Wildlife Centre - numbers of Canada Geese were high, with only 2 Barnacle Geese present (no Cackling geese). 10-15 Redwing at the back of the Centre, including approx. 12 Blackbirds. Millfields: 1 Goldeneye (drake) and 8 Great crested Grebe.Richard and Frances Pittam
2007-01-0945 species seen from the Wildlife Centre today during the Aren't birds brilliant! event. Kingfisher was seen several times dashing about but never settled out in the open. In contrast a peregrine that dashed across the reservoir scaring, in particular one timid moorhen, flew up and landed in full view at the top of a pylon. Soon after a couple of Buzzard were circling in the same area. Plenty of geese around in the afternoon. First a large flock of Canadas came in with a lone Greylag and then later, 30 Barnacles came in accompanied by the 3 Cackling Geese. A couple of Goldeneye were on show and a Redshank gave good views. Lots of redwings about and a very showy Goldcrest hawking for insects by the path. No sign of Little Owl though all day. Matthew Capper (Aren't birds brilliant! project officer)
2007-01-072 GNDiver (1 Millfields, 1 by Fishing hut/Horseshoe Island), 3500 Black headed Gulls inc a white one, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, less than 1000 Lesser Black Backs, Several Willow Tits at PS HIde along with Coal Tit and Great Spotted Woodpecker.Steph' Hicking
2007-01-07Highlights: W.Centre: Kingfisher, 38 Barnacle Geese, Kestrel, Redshank, 1 drake Goldeneye, Sheepwash: 3 Bullfinch, Lesser Redpoll, Goldcrest, 2 Goldeneye(1 male) Paul Stanley: Black-necked Grebe, 3 Goldeneye(1 male), Kestrel, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers (male and female), 3 Willow Tit, Coal Tit, 2 Reed Bunting, 3 Dunnock, RobinRichard and Frances Pittam
2007-01-047 Pintail (3 Drakes 4 Female)were at Sheepwash. Black-necked Grebe at Paul Stanley. 3 Cackling Geese with Barnacle Geese at the Wildlife Centre. Also a few Lesser Redpoll in Paul Stanley wood along with a pair of Reed Bunting on the feeding station.Clive Ashton/Dave Newcombe
2006-12-31Highlights: W.Centre - 2 Redshank, 65 Lapwing, 1 Oystercatcher Sheepwash - 5 Goldeneye (2 Drake, 3 ducks)Richard and Frances Pittam
2006-12-312 GN Divers reported on Birdnet Pager as present this am, near dam and at the Sailing Club.Steph' Hicking
2006-12-30Highlights: W.Centre 37 Barnacle Geese, 55 Redwing, 2 Black-headed Gulls (with darkish head cap)Richard and Frances Pittam
2005-01-03Thanks to Peter Hill for his observations at Carsington today: Spent 5 hours walking around Carsington today. Some of the birds we saw were, Great Grey Shrike (showing near the tower) Black necked grebe (bay near wildlife centre) Goldcrest, Goldfinch, Snipe, Treecreepers, wren, willow tit, coal tit, male and female Greater Spotted Woodpeckers (Paul Stanley), goosander (2) wigeon, teal, pochard, goldeneye, common gulls and Redwings..
2005-01-08Thanks to Paul Bennett (STW Ranger) for an update on the current highlights at Carsington: The Black-necked Grebe that has been around for a week or two now, was showing very well in Shiningford Creek today (Saturday 8th). It was also viewable there from the Wildlife Centre with a telescope. The Great Grey Shrike was elusive today, but was seen daily up until yesterday (7th), either in the field just north of the brick tower, or around the Shiningford Farm area. A drake Ferruginous Duck was found in Millfields Bay on the morning of Monday 3rd. It later flew north and was re-located from Sheepwash Hide. Unfortunately, despite a good number of birders spending all day on Tuesday looking for it, it was not found again..
2005-01-13Thanks to Ray & Margaret Perry for their highlights at Carsington today: Visited Stones Island and the Wildlife Centre (WLC) as usual plus covered the area on the western edge of the water from the WLC to the brick look-out tower. Weather mild. Site generally quiet but there was a notable presence of birdwatchers! Thirty seven species of bird identified around midday. OF NOTE: Black-necked Grebe (1) - Shiningford Creek. Barnacle Goose (36) - Eight by the playground and 28 in a Shiningford Farm field with Canadas. Lapwing (~200) - mainly on Horseshoe Island. Redshank (1) - seen from WLC by first bay/creek north of the WLC. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (1) - in woodland near Lane End hide. Great Grey Shrike (1) - on field posts near the Brick Tower. Redwing (3) - by Shiningford Creek. Also a mixed flock of Redwings and Fieldfares (~60) at Longcliffe. In addition others reported Goosanders (3) at Sheepwash today and a Caspian Gull at Sheepwash yesterday the 12th January..
2005-01-16Thanks to Paul Bennett for an update on the following current highlights at Carsington: Two female Common Scoter off the Dam Wall on the afternoon of Sunday 16th, along with six Shelduck and 14 Goosander. The Great Grey Shrike and the Black-necked Grebe were both still around the Sheepwash area..
2005-01-22A visit by members of Bakewell & District Bird Study group to the Sheepwash area of Carsington today produced the following list of 52 species today - just in this area. How many more species would we have found if we had gone all the way round! Sparrowhawk Dunnock Carrion Crow Rook Bullfinch Magpie Little Grebe Song Thrush Lapwing Moorhen Greenfinch Teal Heron Goosander Goldeneye G.S. Woodpecker Pied Wagtail Raven Stock Dove Canada Goose Chaffinch Mistle Thrush Robin Coot Black-headed Gull Goldfinch Great Crested Grebe Ruddy Duck Long-tailed Tit Mute Swan Treecreeper Black-necked Grebe Willow Tit Coal Tit Common Gull Blackbird Jackdaw Great Tit Redwing Cormorant Blue Tit Kestrel Widgeon Tufted Duck Tree Sparrow Little Owl Pheasant Redshank Pochard Snipe Herring Gull Lesser Black-backed Gull.
2005-01-2333 Barnacle Geese, 1287 Coot, 20 Gadwall and 14 Goldeneye counted at Carsington today..
2005-01-24Thanks to Ray and Margaret Perry for their update for Carsington today: Visited Stones Island and the WLC. Very, very cold. Snow in the northerly wind. Only 29 species found. OF NOTE: Barnacle Goose (6) - Horseshoe Island. Ruddy Duck (~70) - all seen from the WLC. Oystercatcher (1) - Horseshoe Island. Song Thrush (2) - just off site. Mistle Thrush (1) - by WLC. EARLIER SIGHTINGS: 19th January: Great Grey Shrike (1) - taken from the "Water Rail" logbook. 22nd January: Pink-footed Goose (~70) - flew over. From "Water Rail" logbook. Black-necked Grebe (1) - found by Macclesfield RSPB visitors. Goosander (3) - Macc RSPB. Little Owl (1) - Macc RSPB. Great Grey Shrike (1) - Macc RSPB. Kingfisher (1) - near WLC. Taken from "Water Rail" logbook..

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