Recent Sightings

NameSightingDate
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonAn Osprey flew south down the reservoir just after 09:00, putting all the gulls up out of Brown Ale Bay. Adult Caspian Gull still and 3 Yellow-legs. 750 Canadas and 20 Greylags flew out over the dam wall early morning. Female Red-crested Pochard at Flat Island. 13 Shoveler. 4 Ringed, 5 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Dunlin and a juvenile Peregrine at Sheepwash. 2 Willow Tits on Stones and 1 at Sheepwash. A Reed Warbler singing quietly on Stones and a Yellow Wagtail at Sheepwash.20/08/2025
Simon RoddisEvening visit: drake Common scoter still from Sheepwash hide. Gulls: 1,500 Lesser Black-backs, 8 Yellow-legged (7 adults, 1 juvenile), 6 Common (4 adults, 2 juveniles), 450 Black-headed. 155 Rooks flew to roost.19/08/2025
Richard LoweThis afternoon of note from Sheepwash Hide: Osprey - flew from south to Brown Ale Bay then south again, lost to view. Common Scoter (drake); Wigeon (5); Red-crested Pochard (from Paul Stanley); GBB Gull (Juv); YL Gull (2) Ad+2nd s; Plus Dunlin and Ringed Plover on Sailing Club shore; Common Sandpiper and LRP (2) juvs in Brown Ale Bay.19/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonThe adult Caspian Gull was on Shiningford shore this morning. Totals of 5 Ringed Plover, 4 Snipe and 3 Dunlin. 9 Shoveler and 8 Pochard at Sheepwash. 12+ Little Egrets.19/08/2025
Richard LoweFrom Sheepwash Hide late afternoon: Ringed Plover (11); LR Plover - adult with two chicks plus single Juv; Redshank (2) juvs; YL Gull (3) Ads; Common Gull (1) Ad; very few (< 100) LBB Gulls compared to previous days.18/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonThe adult Caspian Gull was tucking into a well-matured dead fish in Brown Ale Bay this morning - rather him/her than me! 3 Yellow-legged and a rather tatty Common Gull. Waders included Redshank, Snipe, 2 Ringed and 4 Little Ringed Plovers at Sheepwash and Dunlin at sailing club. Juvenile Shelduck and female Red-crested Pochard still. 50 House Martins over the dam wall. Sedge Warbler at Sheepwash and Garden Warbler on Stones causeway. 2 Yellow Wagtails on the dam wall.18/08/2025
Simon RoddisA Golden Plover at sailing club was, I think, the first of the year here. Ruff and Dunlin still there too, 5 Ringed Plovers over Stones, and a Common Sandpiper and Oystercatcher at Hopton end. Juvenile Shelduck still. 126 Teal. 11 Shoveler at Sheepwash and a juvenile Peregrine putting up the gulls there. Juvenile Common Gull past Stones. Lesser Whitethroat singing in WLC creek.17/08/2025
Richard LoweLate afternoon of note: Red Kite, Greenshank (Juv), Black-tailed Godwit (c.4 flew out of Brown Ale Bay northwards), Caspian Gull (regular adult) and c. 4 YLGulls (ads) from Sheepwash; Ruff (Juv) and Dunlin in front of Sailing Club with calling Greenshank over.16/08/2025
Simon RoddisTwo Ospreys from Stones island this morning, one of them carrying a fish before disappearing behind Blackwall Plantation; probably a juvenile and an adult although they weren't together, the adult later reappearing at Sheepwash. At least 2 Hobbies over the north end. 8 Shoveler at Sheepwash. A female Ruff at sailing club (found by Mike Redfern) and Ringed Plover at Sheepwash. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls again. Common Tern past Stones. 52 Cormorants. Redstart in WLC creek and Yellow Wagtail at Sheepwash.16/08/2025
Simon RoddisHighlight this morning was an Osprey which circled its way down the reservoir at around 10:30. 3 Ruffs (2m,1f) flew around for a few minutes but couldn't convince themselves to land and departed SE, while 3 Black-tailed Godwits flew behind Flat Island and may have landed in Brown Ale Bay. Juvenile Shelduck still, 115 Teal and the female Red-crested Pochard now up towards Sheepwash. 2 Snipe and a Common Sandpiper at Millfields. 2 Dunlin. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Peregrine at Millfields and Hobby over Hopton end. Skylark on the dam wall and Yellow Wagtails at Sheepwash and Millfields.15/08/2025
Richard LoweBlack Tern (6) - 2 moulting adults and 4 juvs from Sheepwash/Lane End hides at c.4pm onwards; Sanderling (1) and Ringed Plover (2) on Watersports Is.; a very brief female-type Marsh Harrier from Sheepwash car park; Caspian Gull (the regular adult) in front of Lane End hide plus at least 4 Ad YLGulls at Sheepwash with a summer plumaged Grey Plover. A very productive late afternoon!13/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonA superb summer-plumage Grey Plover was at Sheepwash this morning. 2 Ringed Plovers there and another at sailing club with 3 Dunlin. Common Sandpiper in Brown Ale Bay. Juvenile Mediterranean Gull loafing among BhGs at sailing club, and Green Woodpecker calling from the woods behind. Juvenile Shelduck still. 64 Teal. 8 Shoveler. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls. Yellow Wagtails at Sheepwash and Millfields. Spotted Flycatchers in Hall Wood and at Millfields. 2 Redstarts in WLC fields. 19 Crossbills over Hall Wood and a Siskin over Millfields.13/08/2025
Simon RoddisIn a slightly truncated visit this morning, a Green Woodpecker was calling in the woods below the dam wall; 7 Dunlin, 3 Ringed Plovers and a Curlew were at sailing club; the adult Caspian Gull and Great Egret at Watersports; 20 Pochard at Sheepwash; and 175 Pied and 3 Yellow Wagtails left their roost on Watersports island.11/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Jon BradleyHighlight of this morning's wildfowl count were 2 Black-necked Grebes, probably juveniles, initially off Middle Wood and later at Shiningford, and 3 Turnstones on/around sailing club island (per JB). Numbers were: 463 Canada, 5 Barnacle, 5 Greylag, 23 Mute Swan (plus 4 large cygnets), 82 Gadwall, 468 Mallard, 29 Teal, 13 Pochard, 1 Red-crested Pochard, 194 Tufted, 17 Moorhen, 977 Coot, 26 Little Grebe, 54 GCGrebe, 3 Oystercatcher, 5 Ringed Plover, 4 LRPlover, 1 Black-tailed Godwit (10 later in Brown Ale Bay per CA), 2 Common and 2 Green Sandpipers, 4 Dunlin, 47 Cormorant, 21 Little Egret, 1 Great Egret, 13 Grey Heron. Also a Hobby over Millfield, Yellow Wagtail over the north end, 2+ Crossbills over Hall Wood, Spotted Flycatcher in Hall Wood.10/08/2025
Simon RoddisAn adult Arctic Tern was at sailing club this morning, and a juvenile Mediterranean Gull at Sheepwash/Brown Ale Bay (winner of the best-looking-juvenile-gull award). 3 Dunlin and 4 Ringed Plover at sailing club. 69 Gadwall just from the WLC, plus the female Red-crested Pochard. 19 Little Egrets. Redstart and 2 Garden Warblers on Stones, and another Redstart in WLC fields. 2 Yellow Wagtails over the dam wall and WLC creek. 100 Linnets in WLC creek too.09/08/2025
Simon RoddisLong-stayers this morning included the adult Caspian Gull, juvenile Shelduck, family of 5 Barnacle Geese and the Great Egret. 28 Teal and 9 Pochard are both small increases. 228 Tufted. 2 Ringed and 4 juvenile Little Ringed Plovers, plus a Yellow Wagtail, at Sheepwash. 3 Common Sandpipers between Sheepwash and Lane End, and Alan S had 2 Green Sandpipers in Brown Ale Bay. 4 Spotted Flycatchers at Hopton end/Hall Wood. 2 Garden Warblers and a juvenile Common Whitethroat on Stones, and another Whitethroat at Hopton end. Juvenile Redstart in WLC creek.08/08/2025
Richard LoweAt Sheepwash this afternoon: LRPlover (Ad) with 3 chicks recently hatched; Ringed Plover - 3+; YLGull - 4 Ads; Peregrine - Ad plus juvenile, the latter chasing BHG’s; Little Egret - 6;07/08/2025
Simon RoddisLots of singles this morning: Whimbrel flying SW high over the main centre, Green Sandpiper in Brown Ale Bay, juvenile Little Ringed Plover at Sheepwash, Dunlin off the dam wall, adult Common Tern at sailing club, juvenile Shelduck again on Stones, female Red-crested Pochard at WLC, adult Caspian Gull at Watersports and a probable third-year at Sheepwash, Great Egret, Peregrine, Lesser Whitethroat and Redstart in WLC fields, Common Whitethroat on Stones and Crossbill SW over Millfields. Plus 2 Garden Warblers and 5 Barnacle Geese on Stones, and 2 Herring Gulls at Sheepwash.07/08/2025
Simon RoddisBit of an arrival of coastal birds this morning, with an adult Sandwich Tern around sailing club, then at Millfields late morning, a Turnstone flew off the dam wall, 3 Ringed Plovers (courtesy of RPJ & AMD) at Millfields all morning, and a Dunlin. Long-stayers included the adult Caspian Gull, Great Egret and female Red-crested Pochard. 260 Canada Geese. 12+ Little Egrets. 2 Peregrines, the juvenile took a lump out of a Woodpigeon but flew on without stopping. In WLC fields, 2 Redstarts, 2 Lesser and a Common Whitethroat, and another Common on Stones. 12 Crossbills SW over the visitor centre mid-morning.06/08/2025
Simon RoddisTwo drake Common Scoters this morning, one off Sheepwash, the other between Stones and Millfields. Green Sandpiper at WLC. Juv Shelduck, female Red-crested Pochard, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls and Great Egret still present. 16 Little Egrets. 150 Canadas. 468 Mallard. 220 Tufted. 52 Cormorants. 22 Little Grebe. 8+ Spotted Flycatchers in 3 presumed family parties in Hall Wood (seems like they've had a good year), and 20 Crossbills over. 2 Redstarts at WLC/fields.05/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonA drake Common Scoter was between Stones and Millfields this morning and the adult Caspian Gull again at Watersports. Juvenile Shelduck, female Red-crested Pochard and Great Egret still. A Green Sandpiper flew past Sheepwash hide and a Yellow Wagtail over Stones causeway. A trickle of Sand Martins flying into the breeze, 32 in 2 hours.04/08/2025
Gary AtkinsSpecies noted during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon; Stones Island to Wildlife Centre. The grand total of 41 was surprisingly the highest of the year so far: House Sparrow; Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Carrion Crow, Swallow, Woodpigeon, Red Kite, Buzzard, LIttle Egret, Moorhen, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Sand Martin, Pied Wagtail, Blackbird, Grey Heron, Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Barnacle Goose, Greylag Goose, Goldfinch (a flock of 80+), Bullfinch, Shelduck, Magpie, Blackcap, Tufted Duck, Sedge Warbler, Wren, Swift, House Martin, Mallard, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Red-crested Pochard, Dunnock, Chaffinch, Redstart, Coot, Gadwall, Oystercatcher03/08/2025
Simon RoddisJuvenile Shelduck (still?) at Lane End/Stones island. 16 Teal. Female Red-crested Pochard still from WLC. Common Sandpiper at Lane End and Common Tern off Stones. Probable third-summer Caspian Gull on Sheepwash spit. 49 Cormorants. The Great Egret still and at least 17 Little, including the colour-ringed bird LV at Sheepwash. Kingfisher at Millfields. 40 Swallows at the draw-off tower early morning. Garden Warbler on Stones. In WLC creek, female Redstart, Lesser Whitethroat and juvenile Common Whitethroat (both 'throats' in the same scope view). Family party of at least 5 Spotted Flycatchers in Sheepwash carpark and 200+ Linnets in the meadows.03/08/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonFamily of 5 Barnacle Geese still. Juvenile Shelduck on Stones. 1 Dunlin at Sheepwash. Adult Caspian Gull still from Stones and an adult Common Tern. 38 Cormorant. One Great and a mere 27 Little Egrets. Hobby eating prey on the wing over the east side and 2 juvenile Kestrels in WLC fields. 3 Willow Tits (Brown Ale Bay, Stones and Millfields). 5 Redstarts and a Common Whitethroat in WLC fields. 12 Crossbills SW over Sheepwash.02/08/2025
Dave ArmittLittle Egret 16, Grey Heron 5 , Pochard 4, Pied Wagtail 10, Cormorant 30, Yellow leg Gull sheep wash , Sand martin 2, Buzzard 1,Little Grebe 2, Great White Egret 1,Common Scoter, Barnacle goose 4, two flocks of Gold Finch 20+, Blackcap 2,Redstart 1,Swift 1,Swallow 1, RC Pochard 1, Oystercatcher 2,Gadwall 20 , Chiffchaff 101/08/2025
SJR, AHS, MJRAnother day, another record count of Little Egrets: 30 this morning, including 13 roosting at Shiningford. The Great Egret on Stones too, and a drake Common Scoter offshore. Female Red-crested Pochard from the WLC. A Black-tailed Godwit, a Redshank (heard earlier over Millfields) and 2 Dunlin were at Sheepwash late morning. Adult Caspian Gull at Watersports. Juvenile Peregrine upsetting the gulls at Millfields. Around Stones and the WLC, 4+ Redstarts, 2 Willow Warblers, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, several Sedge and lots of Blackcaps.01/08/2025
David GriffinYellow Wagtail in rocks half way between sailing club and dam walk, flew towards dam wall.31/07/2025
Simon RoddisA female-type Goldeneye was off Flat Island this morning, presumably the same bird as last week. Female Red-crested Pochard still. 84 Gadwall. One Great and at least 22 Little Egrets. 3 Common Sandpipers at Lane End and a Dunlin past Millfields. Immature Common Gull over Stones and 7 Yellow-legs on Sheepwash spit. Peregrine from Stones and 2 Buzzards, an adult and a noisy juvenile, over Hall Wood. On Stones, 2 Willow Tits, a juvenile Whitethroat and a Willow Warbler. 3 Spotted Flycatchers between Hall and Middle Woods.31/07/2025
Simon RoddisAn adult Knot in slightly fading summer plumage was on the Brown Ale Bay side of Sheepwash spit early morning, along with 4 Dunlin. Four drake Common Scoters were off Stones island mid-morning. 5 Barnacle Geese still. 484 Mallard (site record) and c900 Coot. Adult Caspian Gull, 3 adult Yellow-legged Gulls and a pair of Common Terns. One Great and 13 Little Egrets. 1+ Peregrine. 20 Sand Martins came out of Hopton reedbed early morning, closely followed by 20 Swallows. Garden Warbler with food at Hopton end, presumably for a second brood. Family party of c5 adult and fledged juvenile Spotted Flycatchers in the bottom of Hall Wood. 1 Redstart in WLC fields.30/07/2025
Simon Roddis6 Dunlin were on Sheepwash spit early morning, a Ringed Plover over Stones later and a Common Sandpiper at Millfields. 3 Common Terns. Adult Caspian Gull again at Watersports. One Great and 15 Little Egrets. Willow Tits on Stones and in WLC creek. Redstart in WLC fields.29/07/2025
Simon RoddisSmall stuff caught the eye this morning: Spotted Flycatcher and juvenile Whitethroat in Tail Bay, make Redstart and Lesser Whitethroat in 'warbler corner' on Stones; 3 more Redstarts in WLC fields, Willow Tits in Tail Bay and on Stones, and a Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall. Plus Peregrine, Dunlin, 10 Swifts moving through, Red-crested Pochard, Great Egret, and 4 Yellow-legged Gulls among 335 Lesser Black-backs on Sheepwash spit.28/07/2025
SJR, CA, RPJ, AMDWildfowl this morning included 5 female/juv Shoveler off the dam wall, 1 juvenile Shelduck, female R-cPochard still and 2 Common Pochard. A Dunlin landed on Watersports island. Adult Caspian Gull at Watersports and 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. 36 Cormorant. One Great and 21 Little Egrets. Hobby over the dam wall and it or another later over the north end, and juvenile Peregrine over the main centre. Skylark and 5 Yellow Wagtails on/over the dam wall. Female Redstart in WLC fields and another reported at WLC.27/07/2025
Simon RoddisA pair of Common Scoter were out in the middle this morning, the first for a while. Female Red-crested Pochard, adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls and Great Egret still. 2 Dunlin flying around Stones island and a Common Sandpiper on Horseshoe. Yellow Wagtail and Skylark on/over the dam wall. 2 Redstarts and a Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields.26/07/2025
Simon RoddisNo sign of yesterday's Goldeneye from WLC but the female Red-crested Pochard was there, and 2 Peregrines (adult and juv?) overhead. Adult Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls still. 5 female/juv Redstarts in WLC fields/Shiningford creek, and a Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields. Spotted Flycatcher in Millfields viewing area and a Crossbill over.25/07/2025
Simon RoddisA female-type Goldeneye from WLC is my first here in July (and I think a site first too). Adult Caspian Gull still but mobile, last seen on Sheepwash spit with 2 adult Yellow-legs. 600+ Coot. 15 Little and 64 GCGrebes. One Great and 12+ Little Egrets. 1 Redshank at sailing club. 39 Cormorants. Peregrine on the usual pylon. 2 Redstarts in WLC fields. 1 Crossbill over Hall Wood.24/07/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonBarnacle Goose family still present, the 3 young now able to fly. 2 full-grown juvenile Mandarins at Millfields. 24 Teal. Female Red-crested Pochard still off Horseshoe island. 52 GCGrebe. 2 Common Sandpipers at Sheepwash. Pair of Common Terns again at sailing club. Adult Caspian Gull again at Watersports. 3 Yellow-legged Gulls including 2 juveniles at Sheepwash. At least 4 juvenile Lesser Black-backs, first I've seen this year. 1 Great and 16 Little Egrets. Kingfisher in Tail Bay. Fledged Reed Warblers in Brown Ale Bay. Female Redstart in WLC fields and juvenile Bullfinch at Shiningford.23/07/2025
Simon Roddis1 Great and 13 Little Egrets this morning. 59 Gadwall. 10 Common and one female Red-crested Pochard still. Adult Caspian, Yellow-legged and Herring Gulls, plus 4 Common. 4 GSWoodpeckers. 2, maybe 3 Peregrines. Lesser Whitethroat near WLC and 2 female-type Redstarts in the fields. 130 Linnets south of Sheepwash and 30 on Stones. 4 Crossbill SW.22/07/2025
SJR, AHS, CAJust a few bits and pieces this morning: juvenile Peregrine around Stones island, 2 Great and at least 8 Little Egrets, 2+ Garden Warblers and a Lesser Whitethroat on Stones, Yellow Wagtail over, female-type Redstart in WLC creek and a Crossbill SW.21/07/2025
Simon Roddis7 Crossbills flew SW over the main carpark at 07:25. Dunlin on Watersports island, and presumably the same bird at Sheepwash later. Adult Caspian Gull still off Watersports. 19 Pochard at Sheepwash. Female Red-crested Pochard still from the WLC. Pair of Common Terns again. Siskin over the main centre.20/07/2025
Richard LoweMid-afternoon from Sheepwash Hide: Osprey flew up the res. and departed North at just gone 3pm; Goldeneye (1); Pochard/Ferruginous Duck type Hybrid; GWEgret (2); LRP (4); Common Sandpiper (3); YLGull (2) - Ad and 2nd s; Common Tern (2).19/07/2025
Simon Roddis2 Black-tailed Godwits flew SW early morning, and a Snipe over the dam wall was my first for a while. 10 Common Sandpipers (9 at Sheepwash, 1 on Horseshoe island). 14 Oystercatchers, plus 2 chicks. Adult Caspian and 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls off Stones. Pair of Common Terns. At least 2 Great Egrets. 36 Gadwall, 20 Teal and 12 Pochard at Sheepwash. Female Shoveler off Horseshoe. Female Red-crested Pochard still from the WLC. 23 Mute Swans, plus 4 cygnets still. 3 Yellow and 7 Grey Wagtails. Redstart on sailing club island.19/07/2025
Simon Roddis, Jon BradleyMonthly wildfowl count: 1,154 Canada, 5 Barnacle (3 young now almost fully grown), 154 Greylag, 20 Mute Swan (plus 4 cygnets), 24 Gadwall, 1 Wigeon, 305 Mallard, 22 Teal, 1 Red-crested Pochard, 11 Common Pochard, 231 Tufted, 15 Moorhen, 495 Coot, 22 Little Grebe, 47 GCGrebe, 6 Oystercatcher (plus 2 chicks), 10 Little Ringed Plover (8 at Sheepwash), 7 Common Sandpiper, 18 Cormorant, 14 Little Egret, 12 Grey Heron. Also the adult Caspian Gull again, 3 Yellow Wagtails, pair of Peregrine.13/07/2025
Andrew CarmichaelJuvenile Little Ringed Plover from Sheepwash hide10/07/2025
Simon RoddisAn adult Caspian Gull (very likely the one that has visited in previous years) was at Watersports this morning. A Greenshank on sailing club island and 2 Yellow Wagtails (plus 6 Grey and 50 Pied) on the dam wall/Millfields. Female Red-crested Pochard, Yellow-legged Gull and Great Egret still. 2 Common Sandpiper at sailing club. 3 Peregrines over the north end, and possibly a fourth over Millfields. Female Redstart in WLC fields. Single Crossbill over Millfields.12/07/2025
Simon Roddis2 fully grown juvenile Goosander off the dam wall early morning, my first here since 21 April. 10 Pochard. 4 Common Sandpiper. 2 Great and 10 Little Egrets. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls again. Juvenile male Redstart in WLC fields (little bit of orange-red on side of breast). At least 2 Crossbills calling over Middle Wood.11/07/2025
Simon RoddisA male Common Whitethroat was in WLC fields this morning (plus female Redstart) and a Yellow Wagtail flew S over Stones and appeared to land in the dam wall. Female Red-crested Pochard, adult Yellow-legged Gull and Great Egret still. 12 Little Egrets. Skylark singing on the dam wall. Clive had a Black-tailed Godwit at Ps hide. 16 species of butterfly must be easily my highest ever total here.10/07/2025
Simon RoddisA Green Sandpiper was on the dam wall early morning, and a Curlew at sailing club. Also at least 1 Yellow Wagtail and a Skylark along the dam wall. Another Skylark and 8 Crossbills later over WLC creek. Female Red-crested Pochard, Wigeon and Great Egret still. At least 8 Little Egrets. 10 Lapwing from WLC and 3 Redshank off Stones island. 2 adult Yellow-legged Gulls. 2 Redstarts and 35 Goldfinches in WLC fields.09/07/2025
Simon RoddisNo repeat of yesterday's wader passage - too 'nice' a day for it - but other bits and pieces included at least 12 Crossbills N through WLC creek, 3 Redstarts and a Lesser Whitethroat in WLC fields, Great Egret and Yellow-legged Gull still, 12 Teal and 13 Pochard in Brown Ale Bay.08/07/2025
Simon RoddisA total of 37 Black-tailed Godwits this morning, including a flock of 31 which circled Stones before departing S. 13 Redshank and a Dunlin also indicative of wader movement. Moulting drake Wigeon (which Clive saw yesterday) still at Sheepwash. 1, possibly 2, adult Yellow-legged Gulls. Great Egret still, and 10 Little Egrets. At least 1 Yellow Wagtail on the dam wall.07/07/2025
Gary AtkinsSpecies noted during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon, areas from Stones Island to the Wildlife Centre): House Sparrow, Mallard, Chiffchaff, Swift, Swallow, Blue Tit, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Goldfinch, Little Egret, Carrion Crow, Woodpigeon, Cormorant, Dunnock, Moorhen, Coot, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Blackbird, Gt Crested Grebe, Grey Heron, Oystercatcher, Song Thrush, Pied Wagtail, Magpie, Wren, Common Tern, Yellow-legged Gull, Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Little Grebe, Barnacle Goose, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Greylag Goose, Buzzard, Peregrine, Great Tit06/07/2025


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
17/06/2023Second brood of Tufties this morning, 9 at sailing club. 2 Sedge Warblers and at least 5 Reed (3 singing) in Hopton reedbed, plus Reed Bunting with food. Little Egret still. 2 imm Common Gulls.Simon Roddis
16/06/2023c700 Canada and 200 Greylags this morning. 37 Gadwall. 2m Teal. Pair of Oystercatchers with 2 chicks on sailing club shore, presumably brought over from SC island. 25 Lapwing in WLC fields. 1 Little Egret still. Total of 5 GSWoodpeckers in Hall/Middle Woods. 15+ Sedge Warblers on Stones, including several 'Sedglings'. 3 Spotted Flycatchers (Hopton end, Stones and WLC creek). Pied Fly still singing in Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
15/06/2023New broods of 10 Gadwall off Big Island and 6 Tufted Duck at WLC. Common Sandpiper at Big Island. 6 Teal flew past Stones. Common Tern off Watersports late morning. A pair of GCGrebes with 2 young at Hopton end may have been the ones from Brown Ale Bay a few days ago. 14 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. Little Egret at Shiningford. 1 Skylark on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
13/06/2023In addition to Simon's report: Common Tern flew N at 0800hr then another Common/Arctic at 08:15. Sedge Warbler feeding young near Janet Ede hide and another pair with food on Stones. Reed Warbler singing on Stones adjacent to Sailing Club Island.Clive Ashton
14/06/2023No great surprises this morning, but Mute Swans (17) and Coot (59) are increasing. 3 Curlews flew W to E over the res. 1 Little Egret. Reed Warblers singing on sailing club island and at WLC. Pair of Redstarts still in WLC creek and a Spotted Flycatcher at Millfields.Simon Roddis
13/06/2023An adult Kittiwake flying around off Sheepwash and Lane End from 07:20 to at least 07:50 was unexpected (although to my surprise I've found that it isn't my first in June - I had one on 30/06/2018). Fledged Willow Tits in Shiningford creek and at PS hide. Lesser Whitethroat at Sheepwash. Pair of GCGrebes with at least 1 chick in Brown Ale Bay, first I've seen this year. Oystercatcher 'Barcode' and its mate have at least 1 chick on Big Island. Juv and 2 adult Tree Sparrows in Shiningford creek.Simon Roddis
12/06/2023A colour ringed Mute Swan CPT4 this morning on Watersports Island was ringed as a male cygnet at Barbridge near Nantwich on 22/8/2020.Clive Ashton
12/06/20235 Common Terns went through N at 09:00, a mobile Little Egret, and Garden Warblers with food on Stones and feeding fledged young at Millfields. Otherwise as you were.Simon Roddis
11/06/2023A male Pochard on Watersports island is my first here since the end of February. A Little Egret flew over Stones, and Reed Warbler still singing there. 13 Mute Swans. 48 Coot. Pair of Oystercatchers with 2 chicks on sailing club island - I think that's the 3rd brood so far. 2 immature Common Gulls at Millfields. 22 Starlings over the dam wall.Simon Roddis
10/06/2023Good news: Willow Tits seem to be having a good breeding season. 3 new broods this morning - WLC creek and 2 at Millfields - makes 5 so far; 14+ birds in total. 11 Mute Swans. Pair of Teal again. 1 Ringed Plover at sailing club. Adult Yellow-legged Gull. Clive had 3-4 immature Common Gulls at sailing club early morning, and 1 was off Millfields later. 15 Cormorants. Garden Warbler with food on Stones, and fledged Blackcaps at Millfields. Redstarts with food and a singing Spotted Flycatcher in WLC creek.Simon Roddis
08/06/2023Single Pink-footed Goose off Stones causeway (first time I've seen it since late Feb) and a Reed Warbler singing there early morning. One Herring Gull N among a small trickle of Lessers. 14 Cormorant. 2 Little Grebe in WLC creek. Pair of Willow Tits feeding 2+ fledged young at WLC. Tree Sparrow adult and juvs again at Millfields.Simon Roddis
07/06/2023A Sanderling was on sailing club shore early morning, and a drake Common Scoter off Sheepwash late morning. Little Egret flew past Stones. 10 Mute Swans. 400+ Canadas. 25 Swifts over the visitor centre. 9 Lapwing. 5 GSWoodpeckers, the most I've seen/heard for months, including a juvenile in the play area - where else?! 3 Redstarts, 3 Spotted and 1 Pied Flycatcher singing in Hall Wood (top path). Sedge Warbler with food on Stones, Pied Wag with food at the visitor centre. Juv Grey Wag in Hall Wood. 8 Mistle Thrushes over Hall Wood.Simon Roddis
05/06/2023A summer plumage Dunlin at sailing club, pair of Teal around Stones and a Skylark over WLC fields were new for the month (for me at least). 27 Swifts. 8 Lapwing. Little Grebe singing in WLC creek. The immature Peregrine again, sitting on the dam wall being mobbed by Swallows early morning.Simon Roddis
04/06/2023Species seen by Birdwatching for Beginners group (Stones Is to WLC, from 10am to noon): Black-headed Gull, Blackbird, Blackcap, Buzzard, Canada Goose, Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff, Coot, Cormorant, Gadwall, Garden Warbler, Goldfinch, Gt Crested Grebe, Greylag Goose, House Sparrow, Jackdaw, Lapwing, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Little Ringed Plover, Mallard, Moorhen, Mute Swan, Oystercatcher, Pied Wagtail, Redshank, Ringed Plover, Sedge Warbler, Song Thrush, Swallow, Swift, Tufted Duck, Willow Warbler, Woodpigeon, Wren (34)Gary Atkins
04/06/2023Could only see 2 goslings with the pair of Barnacle Geese at Millfields this morning. Moorhen with 5 chicks on the Horseshoe nest, but there's one less Black-headed Gull chick there after one was taken by a Buzzard. Willow Tits at WLC and PS hide. Reed Warbler singing in Brown Ale Bay. Chiffchaff with food at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
04/06/20234 Swallow, 5 Sand Martin, 2 Pied wagtail, 6 Cormorant, 7 Chiffchaff, 1Buzzard, 1 Greenfinch,1 Bullfinch , 1 Jay, 2 Garden Warbler, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Whitethroat, 2 WrenDavid Armitt
02/06/2023A very short visit early morning: 1 Ringed Plover at Sailing Club (one seen yesterday too), 5 Lapwing, Reed Warbler singing at WLC, Moorhen with at least 4 young on Horseshoe.Clive Ashton
02/06/2023Heard Whimbrel Horseshoe Island area around midday-crazyMark Pass
02/06/2023More birds on the move this morning, with 9 Sanderling flying N at 06:25 and 11 Arctic Terns (plus another 6 probables) passing through. 337 Canada Geese. Pair of Barnacles at Millfields island with 3 small goslings. 62 Greylag. Female Gadwall with 3 ducklings at Penn Carr. 30 Swifts over Stones. Pair of Redshank with 3 chicks on Horseshoe island. 6 Ravens over the east side. Chiffchaff with food in Hall Wood, and fledged young at Hays Lane. Still a Sedge and 3 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed. Fledged Nuthatches in Millfields carpark. Redstart, Spotted and Pied Flycatchers singing in Hall Wood. 5 Tree Sparrows (adult and 4 juvs) at Millfields.Simon Roddis
01/06/20239 Black Terns from Stones this morning: 7 at 07:45 appeared to go more or less straight through, then 2 from 08:10-08:20. 5 Common Terns. Swifts built up to 50+ over Stones mid-morning. A Peregrine (same bird as yesterday) caught its breakfast at sailing club. 2 Willow Tits singing in WLC creek (one of them presumably from the WLC pair).Simon Roddis
31/05/20232 Black Terns off Stones from 08:50-09:20 and then a presumed third bird at 09:35. Clive had a flock of at least 18 terns, probably Common, fly through at about 08:00, and a Common was at WLC at 10:45. c20 Swifts and 50 House Martins feeding over WLC/Watersports area. A second-year Peregrine past Stones.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
29/05/2023Adult Common Tern and Curlew from Stones this morning. 12 each of Swifts and House Martins over Horseshoe island, and the first Black-headed Gull chicks have hatched there, 3 in one nest. 2+ Jays near sailing club, might have been a family party.Simon Roddis
28/05/20231 Turnstone, 2 Little Ringed Plover, 6 Cormorant, 5 Sedge Warbler, 4 Oystercatcher, 7 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 7 Goldfinch, 1 Shoveler, 2 Lapwing, 1 Reed Warbler WLC Reed Bed, 3 Pied Wagtail, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Willow Tit with food WLC, Great Tits in nest box 42David Armitt
26/05/2023A breeding plumage adult Turnstone was on sailing club island at 08:30, then reported flying over sailing club by another bird at 10:00. Drake Goosander flew into Millfields. 4 Barnacle Geese. 6 Swifts around the visitor centre. 1 Curlew over. 5 Willow Tits: adult and at least 2 fledged young at Millfields, and a pair with food at WLC. Fledged Long-tailed Tits on Stones causeway.Simon Roddis
23/05/20232 Ringed Plover at sailing club this morning. 2 Oystercatcher chicks still at Sheepwash. 1 Curlew bubbling. A dead Tawny Owl on the dam wall road. 6 Ravens on pylons above Hognaston were presumably a family party. 2 Linnet over the dam wall.Simon Roddis
21/05/2023Monthly WeBS count: 182 Canada, 38 Greylag, 4 Mute Swan, 17 Gadwall, 51 Mallard, 38 Tufted, 4 Moorhen, 23 Coot, 1 Little Grebe, 47 GCGrebe, 5 Oystercatcher (plus 2 chicks at Sheepwash), 2 Lapwing, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sand, 2 Redshank, 250 BhGulls, 8 Cormorant, 2 Grey Herons. Typically low numbers for many species at this time of year but only 1 Little Grebe is surprising. Counts don't include ducklings or goslings.Simon Roddis, Jon Bradley
20/05/2023Perimeter counts this morning: 28 Pheasant, 1 Kingfisher at Hopton reedbed, 7 Coal Tit, 64 Blue, 29 Great, 14 Long-tailed, Skylark singing in dam wall fields, 26 Willow Warbler, 72 Chiffchaff, 14 Sedge, 3 Reed, 60 Blackcap, 22 Garden, 2 Lesser and 1 Common Whitethroat, 16 Goldcrest, 123 Wren, 11 Treecreeper, 46 Song Thrush, 6 Mistle, 89 Blackbird, 2 Spotted and 1 Pied Fly, 104 Robin, 6 Redstart, 32 Dunnock, 26 Chaffinch, 15 Bullfinch, 21 Goldfinch, male Linnet on the dam wall.Simon Roddis
19/05/2023An adult Little Gull flew around for a minute or two before heading off east just before 6 this morning, and a Whimbrel dropped in. A few gulls moving through: 25 Lessers, 2 Great Black-backs and at least 3 immature Common. Otherwise just the usual suspects.Simon Roddis
12/05/2023Evening visit: the GNDiver still from Stones. If it's still there tomorrow (which it presumably will be), it will equal its latest ever last date here (13/05/18). A female Wigeon at WLC and the Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports.Simon Roddis
12/05/2023The GNDiver was off Stones to late morning at least. An Osprey flew over Stones at 09:20 then landed in Hall Wood before appearing to head N at 09:35. It or another appeared over the east side at 09:40 and stayed to 10:10. It seemed to me that the second bird was more uniform dark above but less clean white below than the first, so I think there may have been 2 birds. A Sanderling flew N past Stones at 10:42. Also 2 Shelduck, c25 Swifts, the Bar-tailed Godwit still, an immature GBbGull, Peregrine over Stones, Spotted Flycatcher singing near Lane End, Redstart in Shiningford creek.Simon Roddis
07/05/2023Bird Walk - 7th May 2023 House sparrow, Canada goose, Greylag goose, Mallard, Oystercatcher, Coot, Sedge warbler, BHgull, Pied wagtail, Tufted duck, Cormorant, Mute swan, GNDiver, Goldfinch, Gadwall, moorhen, L R plover, Chiffchaff, Robin, Song thrush, Blackbird, Dunnock, Crow, Magpie, Wren, willow warbler, Blackcap, Bar-tailed godwit, Redshank, Lapwing, GC grebe, Wood pigeon, Buzzard, Jackdaw. 34 in total.Amanda Palethorpe
11/05/2023The GNDiver was still here this morning and had quite a lengthy flight around 10:30; last seen low over the water so may well have pitched back in. Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports. 1 Whimbrel over. 2 Common Terns. Drake Mandarin flew past Stones. Lesser Whitethroat on Stones. Redstart singing in WLC fields. Willow Tit, Grey Wagtail and Treecreeper all with food at Millfields.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
10/05/2023The GNDiver is still present this morning, as well as the Bar-tailed Godwit. Whimbrel over Stones. 1 Arctic Tern around Stones from 07:30-08:10 and another 5 from 09:40-10:10. Lesser Whitethroat singing in Millfields carpark.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
09/05/20308 Sedge Warbler, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Willow Warbler, 6 Oystercatcher, 6 Chiffchaff, 1 Garden Warbler, 2 Reed Bunting, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Cormorant, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Dunlin, 1 Redshank, 1 Redstart, 2 Long Tailed Tit,3 Pied wagtailDavid Armitt
09/05/2023Clive had a good start to the morning, finding an Avocet on Horseshoe island (though not seen after about 07:15), Whimbrel in the overflow carpark and Ringed Plover at sailing club. Dunlin there later too. The GNDiver and Bar-tailed Godwit still and an Arctic Tern from Stones mid-morning. 2 Pied Flycatchers still singing. 4 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed and one on Stones causeway. Oystercatchers have young on Horseshoe island and Chiffchaff with food on Stones.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
08/05/2023The GNDiver was last seen at about 08:40 this morning, in flight and calling. Maybe its farewell for this end of the year? 1 Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports. 3 Shelduck. 2 Dunlin. 1 Curlew. Reed Warblers singing at WLC and near the visitor centre.Simon Roddis, Clive Ashton
07/05/2023The GNDiver was still present late morning. 2 Common Terns early morning. 5 singing Reed Warblers (2 in WLC Creek, 3 Hopton reedbed) and a Sedge Warbler in Hopton reedbed. 2 singing Pied Flycatchers and 2 singing Redstarts between Hall Wood and Warrington Knob. Still 10+ Lesser Redpolls at Millfields. And Clive saw the Bar-tailed Godwit at Watersports early on.Simon Roddis
06/05/2023The GNDiver still off Stones island and in flight. Bar-tailed Godwit still at Watersports. Little Egret N over Hopton end. 1 Yellow Wagtail SE over Stones. 4 Bullfinches and at least 5 Lesser Redpolls again feeding on Aspen catkins at Millfields.Simon Roddis
05/05/2023A bit of a waderfest this morning, with a total of 12 species. Highlights were 2 Wood Sandpipers past Stones island at 07:25, 5 Whimbrel, Greenshank and Bar-tailed Godwit. The GNDiver still from Stones. Osprey over Hall Wood at 09:08. Female Goldeneye still. 2 Common Terns.SJR, CA, AHS
04/05/2023The GNDiver still present to 10:30 at least after exercising its wings again. A Cuckoo called 4 or 5 times near the WLC early morning, less than annual here and only my second ever. 13 Oystercatchers, including 7 together at Millfields. 1 imm Common Gull. Redstart singing between Hays and Oldfield Lanes, north of Millfields. 27 Lesser Redpolls near Millfields stone barn, feeding in Blackthorn and a catkin-bearing tree that I'm struggling to identify. 1 Siskin over Millfields carpark.Simon Roddis
02/05/2023The GNDiver had a fly around again early this morning before dropping back onto the water. Guess it will be heading off any day now. 3 Greylag broods and 1 new Canada brood. Female Goldeneye at Sheepwash. 6 Swifts from Stones. Ringed Plover at sailing club. Little Egret N over Stones. 3 Reed Warblers singing in Hopton reedbed. Lesser Whitethroat on Stones and Common Whitethroat above Middle Wood. 14 Treecreepers counted between Hopton and Middle Wood. At least 2 recently fledged young Mistle Thrushes in Hall Wood. Pied Flycatcher singing at Warrington Knob.Simon Roddis
01/05/2023Osprey from Stones from 08:45, last seen flying SE at 09:25. The GNDiver still off Sheepwash, looking extremely smart. 9+ Swifts. Female Wigeon and a pair of Goldeneye. Loads of hirundines, especially Sand Martins.Simon Roddis
30/04/2023A Sanderling was on sailing club shore early morning and the GNDiver was off Stones. Yellow Wag on the dam wall. 2 female Wheatears (dam wall and around the visitor centre). Brood of 5 Canada Geese from Stones and 9 Mallard ducklings (first seen yesterday). A great turn-out of 29 people for the Springtime Songbird walk, thanks to everyone who came. A write-up will appear on the website and in the next CBC newsletter.Simon Roddis
28/04/2023Highlight this morning was the site's earliest ever Spotted Flycatcher, near Lane End. Previous earliest was 4th May 2018. Perimeter counts were lower than expected, perhaps due to the dull conditions early on: 90 Blue Tits, 51 Great, 10 Long-tailed, 37 Willow Warblers (all singing), 106 Chiffchaff (99 singing), 20 Sedge (19 singing), 1 Reed, 51 Blackcap (45 singing), 10 Garden singing, 7 Goldcrest, 105 Wren (100 singing), 7 Treecreeper, 55 Song Thrush (40 singing), 15 Mistle Thrush (12 singing), 115 Blackbird (52 singing), 89 Robin (70 singing), 4 Redstart, 27 Dunnock (21 singing), 17 Chaffinch, 8 Bullfinch. And the GNDiver still present.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
27/04/20235 Black Terns put in a brief appearance before flying NE at 07:40. A Common Tern hung around from 09:00 to 11:00 at least. The GNDiver had a fly around for a few minutes before dropping back onto the water. 5 Common Sandpipers on Stones. 1 Dunlin. c150 Sand Martins, 50 Swallows and 25 House Martins. A Common Whitethroat near the visitor centre, Lesser Whitethroats in WLC fields and on Stones (CA), 3+ Garden Warblers around Stones and 12 Sedge Warblers (11 around Stones, 1 at WLC). One of the Garden Warblers had a distinctive song, a rolling warble, presumably the same bird with that song variation that was on Stones last year.Simon Roddis
25/04/2023Some perimeter counts undertaken today with Chris Brown. All done in the afternoon so probably not the best time as some counts were quite disappointing. 71 Chiffchaff. 17 Willow Warblers. 32 Blackcap. 6 Sedge Warbler. Reed Warbler Hopton reedbed. 24 Blue Tits. 4 Song Thrush. 31 Blackbird. 5 Mistle Thrush. 24 Wren. 5 male Redstarts all singing on the east side. 35 Robins. 5 Goldcrest. 5 Dunnock. 5 Nuthatch. 6 Greenfinch. 181 Canada Geese. 23 Greylags. Pair of Wigeon at Hopton end. 19 Teal which included 18 that flew in and landed in the middle of the res. 15 Gadwall. 34 Tufteds. Adult GN Diver off Stones Is. Snipe and Redshank on Horseshoe Is. 2 Grey Wagtails on draw off tower. Ringed Plover on dam wall.Dave Newcombe/Chris Brown
26/04/2023The GNDiver off Stones again. Single Bar-tailed and Black-tailed Godwits on Watersports island early morning. A Whimbrel flew over Stones and came down on Horseshoe island. 4 Common Sandpipers at Watersports. 1 Curlew. 1,800 BhGulls early morning post-roost. 2 redhead Goosander at Millfields early morning. 2 Wheateras, a female on Hays Lane (Millfields) and Clive saw a male on the dam wall. Garden Warbler and Yellow Wagtail on Stones. 6 Lesser Redpoll at the play area.Simon Roddis
24/04/2023Stones Island (11-12.15). A pair of Willow Tits seemed to be sussing out a nestbox on Stones, and another Willow Tit was in the VC courtyard. Five or six Sedge Warblers were nice to hear (as were similar number of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs) and showed well. A stoat did not seem in too much of a rush to avoid us. Two 'sitting' Oystercatchers (one on Watersports and one in front of the Sailing Club). Confirming earlier reports, hundreds of hirundines over the res seemed chiefly martins, and those low over the Island itself mainly House Martins.Gary Atkins/John Follett
24/04/2023The GNDiver off Stones island this morning, beginning to look quite smart. 2 Shelduck at Sheepwash. 8 Shoveler out in the middle, typical of passage wildfowl. 3 Wigeon. 3 Goldeneye. Drake Goosander. Common Sandpiper on Stones. c500 B-h Gulls around Millfields island, but sadly 3 dead ones, presumably AI victims. 12 Buzzards in the air. Total of 13 Ravens, including 11 together beyond WLC Creek. Hundreds of hirundines over the water. 6 Sedge Warblers around Stones. Reed Warbler in Hopton reedbed. Lesser Whitethroat singing in WLC Creek. Total of 9 Redstarts (8m,1f). 2 singing Pied Flycatchers in Hall and Middle Woods.SJR, CA, AHS
23/04/2022WeBS count; Great Northern Diver 1, Little Grebe 2, Great Crested Grebe 31, Cormorant 6, Grey Heron 1, Canada Goose 177, Greylag 22, Barnacle Goose 10, Mute Swan 5, Gadwall 12, Mallard 72, Tufted Duck 43, Teal 2, Goldeneye 5, Common Scoter 4, Moorhen 4, Coot 31, Oystercatcher 11, Redshank 6, LRP 4, Lapwing 1, Common Sandpiper 1, Grey Wagtail 1. Also Reed Warbler in Hopton reedbed, 8 Sedge Warbler, 7 Redstart, 2 Pied Flycatcher, Yellow Wagtail, 3+ Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern.Jon Bradley/Clive Ashton

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