Recent Sightings

NameSightingDate
Natalie WindsorSheepwash/Paul Stanley: Treecreeper, Chiffchaff singing. WLC: 25 Barnacle Geese visible at far back, Chiffchaff singing, House Sparrows. Stones: Chiffchaff singing. Oystercatchers.07/03/2025
Richard LoweIn BH Gull colony on Horseshoe Is a 1st w Mediterranean Gull late afternoon, plus an adult in the gull roost off Stones Island as well as Caspian Gull 1st w and RT and GN Divers.04/03/2025
Simon RoddisThe GN and Red-throated Divers are still here this morning, and the 2 drake Greater Scaup again off Lane End. Just 1 (one!) drake Pochard. 30 Barnacle Geese. 27 Goldeneye. Pair of Goosander flew out of Millfields early morning. 1 Redshank at sailing club. 16 Curlew. A Woodcock at Millfields first thing. Pair of Peregrines sitting on a pylon on the pastures.03/03/2025
Richard LoweFrom Stones Is late afternoon - Mediterranean Gull (Ad); Caspian Gull (1st w); Red-throated Diver (1).02/03/2025
Dave Armitt1 Great spotted woodpecker,17 Goldeneye, 2 Oystercatcher, 9 Little grebe, 22 Barnacle goose, 1 Curlew, 2 Pochard, 2 Raven, Great Northern Diver , Red Throated Diver, 2 Great Scaup from stones , 4 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Reed Bunting , 2 Chiffchaff catching midges on stones.02/03/2025
Gary AtkinsSpecies recorded during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners Walk (10am-noon; Stones Island to Wildlife Centre): Barnacle Goose, Black-headed Gull, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Buzzard, Canada Goose, Carrion Crow, Chaffinch, Chiffchaff, Common Gull, Coot, Cormorant, Dunnock, Gadwall, Goldeneye, Goldfinch, Great Crested Grebe, Great Northern Diver, Great Tit, Greylag Goose, House Sparrow, Jackdaw, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Little Grebe, Long-tailed Tit, Magpie, Mallard, Moorhen, Mute Swan, Oystercatcher, Pied Wagtail, Red-throated Diver, Robin, Scaup, Tufted Duck, Willow Tit, Woodpigeon and Wren (38)02/03/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonThe GN and Red-throated Divers were still off Stones island this morning, and the 2 Greater Scaup were off Lane End, visible from Stones and the main centre terrace. Again no sign of the Ring-necked Duck or Lesser Scaup. Drake Shoveler from Stones. Pair of Goosander from Millfields early on and 17 Curlew on sailing club shore.02/03/2025
Simon RoddisThe GN and Red-throated Divers still present this morning; the GND is starting to show a few white spots on its upperparts. A minor duck arrival included 4 Shelduck, 3 Pintail and 10 Wigeon, but again couldn't find the Lesser Scaup or Ring-necked Duck. 14 Curlew at sailing club early morning. 16 Ravens W over Hopton end first thing. 1 Skylark in the dam wall fields.01/03/2025
Simon Roddis, Clive AshtonThe GN and Red-throated Divers were both off Stones island this morning, and the 2 Greater Scaup below Hall Wood, but we couldn't find the Lesser Scaup or Ring-necked Duck. There has been quite a clear-out of wildfowl in recent days so perhaps they've gone. A Lesser Black-backed x Ring-billed Gull hybrid, which presumably roosted and is very likely the one that has been seen here before, was at sailing club early morning. 12 Curlew and a Kingfisher there at the same time. c10 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 2+ Chiffchaffs on/around Stones.28/02/2025
Simon RoddisPerimeter counts this morning: 21 Pheasant, 7 Stock Dove, 1 Water Rail (Hopton reedbed), 10 Oystercatcher (including the colour-ringed bird Barcode), 16 Curlew (WLC fields), 10 Buzzards, 6 GSWoodpecker, 1 Jay, 32 Magpie, 4 Raven, 9 Coal Tit, 1 singing Willow, 149 Blue, 64 Great, 43 Long-tailed, 1 Chiffchaff, 10 Goldcrest, 49 Wren, 6 Nuthatch, 5 Treecreeper, 100 Starling, 34 Song Thrush, 9 Mistle, 27 Redwing, 54 Blackbird, 122 Robin, 40 Dunnock, 9 Pied Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 47 Chaffinch, 8 Bullfinch, 8 Greenfinch, 16 Goldfinch, 38 Reed Buntings (35 out of Hopton reedbed early morning).27/02/2025
Simon RoddisAn adult Mediterranean Gull was at Millfields this morning, and the GN and Red-throated Divers visible from there (and from Stones ). Didn't see the Lesser Scaup but it has been reported since. Ring-necked Duck at sailing club before it got disturbed, and the 2 Greater Scaup were again below Hall Wood. Kingfisher from WLC.26/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Duck, GN and Red-throated Divers were in their usual areas this morning. Chiffchaff occasionally singing on Stones. Little Egret feeding in the fields above Fishtail Creek, had to look twice to make sure it wasn't Cattle. About 20 Buzzards in the air late morning. Kingfisher at sailing club. Willow Tits on Stones and at Millfields. Grey and Pied Wagtails singing at Millfields.25/02/2025
Simon RoddisA new bird to add to the cast list today: a winter-plumage Black-necked Grebe was off the south end of Stones island 08:30-08:45. The Lesser and Greater Scaup, the Ring-necked Duck and both GN and Red-throated Divers still present. Pochard numbers have dropped quite a bit, 186 is my lowest count since mid-September last year. 25 Goldeneye. 5 Woodcock and a Water Rail at Hopton reedbed first thing. 13 Oystercatcher. 17 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 6 Curlew. Little Egret at PS hide. Skylark over the dam wall.24/02/2025
Dave Armitt65 Pochard, 5 Wigeon,11 Goldeneye, 2 Curlew, 8 Little Grebe,GN Diver, Red throated Diver of stones, 20 Cormorant,1 Chiffchaff, 8 Barnacle goose, 5 oystercatcher, 2 Greater Scaup, 1Lesser Scaup Mill fields ring- necked Duck23/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Duck, GN and Red-throated Divers were all in their usual areas this morning. More of a surprise was that the 2 immature drake Greater Scaup were also at Millfields, within a few metres of the Lesser. 70 Greylags. 3+ Curlew. Chiffchaff on Stones island. Grey Wagtail singing at Millfields. 25 Redwing at Sheepwash.23/02/2025
Simon RoddisWillow Tit survey in the southern tetrad (which isn't quite all of the southern half of the res) yielded 2 pairs. The Red-throated Diver was way up north of Flat Island. 30 Barnacle Geese. 9 Mistle Thrushes, 5 of them singing. Redshank still on Stones causeway.22/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe blustery conditions made finding birds a bit tricky this morning but all except the Red-throated Diver eventually gave themselves up, the Lesser Scaup finally appearing at Millfields late morning, with the Ring-necked Duck also there after being at sailing club earlier. GNDiver off the east side and the 2 Greater Scaup still below Hall Wood. 33 Barnacle Geese. 2 Curlew. At least 25, maybe 30 Snipe on Horseshoe island. Kingfisher at Millfields.21/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe Lesser Scaup was still at Millfields first thing this morning, the Ring-necked Duck at sailing club, the GN and Red-throated Divers off Stones island, and the 2 Greater Scaup below Hall Wood (viewed from Paul Stanley hide). 33 Barnacle Geese. 20 Lapwing and 5 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 2 Curlew. GSWoodpecker drumming at Penn Carr. The Sheepwash/Lane End Chaffinch flock is now up to 45, along with 10 Goldfinches.20/02/2025
Simon RoddisAll the goodies were in their usual areas this morning, although the Greater Scaup were tucked right into Flat Island when I saw them, first time I've seen them there. 4 Goosander early morning. 38 Reed Buntings came out of Hopton reedbed, calling Water Rail there and a Great Egret flew over. 1 Curlew. Willow Tit survey on the west side yielded 4 birds, a pair and 2 singles (1 also at Millfields). 30 Chaffinches between Sheepwash and Lane End.19/02/2025
SJR, CA, AHSThe female Lesser Scaup still at Millfields, the female Ring-necked Duck at sailing club and the GN and Red-throated Divers from Stones this morning. 13 Snipe on Horseshoe island and Alan had 4 Curlew (and a Skylark) over the east side. 37 Ravens, including a party of 20, E over Millfields early morning, presumably out of a roost not too far away.18/02/2025
AHS, CA.This morning from Stones Island, Great Northern Diver in it's usual place sleeping off the East bank, Ring Necked Duck just near the last jetty on the left of yatch club. Late morning Red Throated Diver was showing very well behind Watersports Island and relatively close. 30 Barnacle Geese in WLC bay, 1 Snipe, 1 Redkite, 2 Willow Tit plus all the usual waterfoul.17/02/2025
Simon Roddis, Jon BradleyMonthly wildfowl count, a little bit later in the day than usual because it was a bit dreich this morning: 207 Canada, 31 Barnacle, 88 Greylag, 4 Mute Swan, 19 Gadwall, 11 Wigeon, 116 Mallard, 3 Teal, 550 Pochard, 1 Ring-necked Duck, 158 Tufted, 2 Scaup, 1 Lesser Scaup, 1 Aythya hybrid, 22 Goldeneye, 2 Goosander, 1 Water Rail, 10 Moorhen, 570 Coot, 25 Little Grebe, 85 GCGrebe, 10 Oystercatcher, 3 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 1 GN Diver, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Little Egret. Peregrine over WLC. 25 Chaffinch feeding in field south of Sheepwash. Later from Stones island, c6,000 Black-headed Gulls, 1 adult Mediterranean, 4,000 Common, 550 Lesser Black-backed and 50 Herring.16/02/2025
Richard LoweTwo adult Mediterranean Gulls late afternoon, one from Millfields, the other from Stones Is. Both RTDiver and GNDiver visible at range from Millfields. Ring-necked Duck (f) off Sailing Club, courtesy of Simon Roddis. Little Egret flew over Stones Island towards Sheepwash at dusk.16/02/2025
Tom EelesLittle Egret over Stones at 0830. Too murky to see Divers, Ring Necked Duck off Sailing Club at 11am15/02/2025
Richard LoweCaspian Gull 1st w and YL Gull 3rd w in this afternoon’s gull roost plus 2 Mediterranean Gulls (adult plus 1st w) well spotted by Clive Ashton. An eight species gull roost. Plus Ring-necked Duck (f) off sailing club.14/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe Lesser Scaup was still at Millfields this morning, and the Ring-necked Duck was there too, just to keep us on our toes. GN and Red-throated Divers out on the water and the 2 drake Scaup again below Hall Wood. Water Rail in Hopton reedbed. Peregrine(s?) over the east and west sides. 250 Starlings. 32 Barnacle Geese. The Aythya hybrid again in sailing club bay.14/02/2025
Richard Lowe1st winter Mediterranean Gull in gull roost off Watersports centre late afternoon.13/02/2025
SJR, CA, AHSThe Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Duck, 2 Greater Scaup and the 2 divers were in their usual spots this morning. Otherwise as you were.13/02/2025
SJR, CA, AHSThe Lesser and 2 Greater Scaup, the Ring-necked Duck and both GN and Red-throated Divers in their respective spots this morning. The Red-throat had a bit of a fly again. The Aythya hybrid also off Stones causeway again. 2 singing Mistle Thrushes at Sheepwash. 30 Siskin over WLC creek.12/02/2025
Simon RoddisGN and Red-throated Divers distantly in the murk from Stones island this morning, and the 2 Greater Scaup below Hall Wood, seen from PS hide. I couldn't find the Lesser Scaup or the Ring-necked Duck in their usual haunts. 33 Barnacle Geese. 500+ Pochard.11/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe Lesser and Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Duck and both GN and Red-throated Divers all present and correct this morning. The Greater Scaup were among a flock of 260 Pochard in Brown Ale Bay, seen from Paul Stanley hide (c500 Pochard in total). 3 Woodcock and a calling Tawny Owl at Hopton end first thing.09/02/2025
Richard Lowe2nd winter Caspian Gull off Sailing Club late this afternoon - thankfully out of the biting wind; Ring-necked Duck showing well off Stones Is causeway; Lesser Scaup showing well from the perimeter path between Millfields car park and Fishtail creek.07/02/2025
Richard LoweAdult Mediterranean Gull off Stones Is in the roost late afternoon.01/02/2025
Simon RoddisLate afternoon, 800 Lesser Black-backs and 30+ Herring Gulls in the roost, plus several thousand Black-heads and Commons. Both divers still, and the 5 Whoopers were still there at dusk. Earlier, the 2 Greater Scaup still under Hall Wood.06/02/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonThe female Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Duck and both GN and Red-throated Divers were in their usual areas this morning. 700+ Pink-footed Geese flew NW in 6 skeins 0915-1015. 5 Whooper Swans flew in from the SW at 0940. 1 Shelduck, 2 Pintail, single Great Egret and Redshank. 8 Oystercatchers. 3 Curlew. 1 Woodcock at Hopton end first thing and 17 Reed Buntings came out of the reedbed.06/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe Lesser and Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Duck and both GN and Red-throated Divers were in their usual areas this morning. The Red-throat called several times with its breath visible as it exhaled, something I've never heard or seen before. 33 Barnacle Geese. 5 Goosander. Mini waderfest involving 21 Lapwing, 7 Oystercatcher, 3 Curlew, 4 Snipe and a Woodcock. Barn Owl early morning. Peregrine N over Sheepwash. Totals of 13 Raven and 6 Skylark. An excellent morning, my first 70+ haul this year (73 species).05/02/2025
SJR, CA, AHSThe female Lesser Scaup was still at Millfields this morning, the Ring-necked Duck at sailing club, both GN and Red-throated Divers from Stones island, and the 2 Scaup still below Hall Wood. 1 Shelduck at Millfields. Totals of 558 Pochard and 32 Goldeneye. 30 Barnacle Geese. At least 3,000 Black-headed and 1,000 Common Gulls early morning. 6 Oystercatchers.04/02/2025
Simon RoddisAll the main attractions still present this morning: the female Lesser Scaup at Millfields, the female Ring-necked Duck at sailing club, GN and Red-throated Divers from Stones island, and the 2 immature drake Greater Scaup towards the north end of the res below Hall Wood. 5 Oystercatchers indicates an arrival of several birds in the last day. 3 singing Mistle Thrushes and my first singing Chaffinch of the year at Sheepwash.03/02/2025
Gary AtkinsSpecies seen during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon, Stones Island - Wildlife Centre): Black-headed Gull, House Sparrow, Coot, Canada Goose, Gt Crested Grebe, Robin, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Wigeon, Pied Wagtail, Little Grebe, Carrion Crow, Lapwing, Pochard, Magpie, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Dunnock, Common Gull, Barnacle Goose, Teal, Buzzard, Blue Tit, Blackbird, Great Northern Diver, Willow Tit, Moorhen, Chaffinch, Woodpigeon, Great Tit, Kestrel, Goldeneye, Mallard and Oystercatcher02/02/2025
Simon RoddisAnother eventful morning: huge credit to Jon Bradley for finding a female Lesser Scaup at Millfields, a first for Carsington and just the second for the county. Red-throated and GN Divers still from Stones. The female Ring-necked Duck was at sailing club early on but then relocated to Millfields. 31 Barnacle Geese. 3 Goosander. 560 Woodpigeons flew N in 2 hours. Single Oystercatcher, GBbGull and Peregrine.02/02/2025
Simon RoddisThe female Ring-necked Duck was again at sailing club early morning but disappeared once the inevitable boating activities started. GN and Red-throated Divers and the 2 Scaup still from Stones island. 4 Pintail on the water for a while, and 6 Shoveler at Millfields. 20 Goldeneye from Stones and the Aythya hybrid again. A Great Egret flew N and Colin Bowler had a Little Egret perched in Tail Bay. 55 Woodpigeons N. At least 1 Oystercatcher. Barn Owl at the Knockerdown early morning.01/02/2025
SJR, AHS, CAAll the goodies were in their usual areas this morning, the Ring-necked Duck, both divers and the 2 Scaup, although the Ring-necked Duck got a bit elusive later in the morning. The Aythya hybrid still off Stones causeway too. One Woodcock and 3 Goosander at Millfields first thing. Single Oystercatcher still at Watersports. Peregrine over Hall Wood.31/01/2025
Simon RoddisA beautiful morning and a few decent birds to boot. The female Ring-necked Duck was in her current favoured spot at sailing club; the Red-throated Diver flew around for at least 15 minutes but was later on the water off Stones island, and the GNDiver from there too. A Great Egret flew in from the E and an Oystercatcher was at Watersports. 73 Woodpigeons NE. c30 Barnacle Geese, 1 Skylark and 55 Redwing.30/01/2025
Simon RoddisThe female Ring-necked Duck was again at the sailing club early morning, and the Red-throated and GN (eventually) Divers from Stones. 195 Greylags flew out. 30 Barnacle Geese at WLC. The Aythya hybrid again off Stones causeway. 43 Woodpigeons flew NE. 330 Lesser Black-backs out of their roost. Peregrine on sailing club shore and later from Stones. 300 Jackdaws and 60 Rooks on the dam wall early morning. 30 Fieldfares on the east side. 4 Bullfinch, 2 Redpoll and a Linnet on Stones.29/01/2025
Simon RoddisThe female Ring-necked Duck, presumably the same as last November and also reported a week or so ago, was at sailing club between 09:00 and 10:00 at least but couldn't find it there at 11. GN and Red-throated Divers still from Stones, and both immature drake Scaup, getting greyer by the day. 3 Redpoll on Stones and 60 Starlings over.28/01/2025
Simon RoddisThe GN and Red-throated Divers and one of the Scaup were back in their usual areas, visible from Stones island, early morning. By late morning the GNDiver was down at Millfields. 30+ Barnacle Geese. Pair of Shoveler at WLC. Water Rail showing extremely well on the pond off the boardwalk just before the WLC. Kingfisher and the Aythya hybrid off Stones causeway.27/01/2025
SJR, CA, AHSBoth the GN and Red-throated Divers still this morning, again moved north of Stones, the Red-throat best seen from Sheepwash hide late morning. The 2 immature drake Scaup have also relocated to that area, not having been seen from Stones for a few days. 32 Barnacle Geese. The Aythya hybrid was in sailing club bay and later in Brown Ale Bay.26/01/2025
Simon RoddisThe GNDiver was still off Stones island this afternoon, and the Red-throated was off Millfields. Minimum of 934 Pochard, including 545 at Sheepwash.24/01/2025
Simon RoddisAfternoon visit: the GN and Red-throated Divers from Millfields/Stones all afternoon, and the 2 Scaup landed off Stones early afternoon. The Great Egret seen elsewhere by others roosted on Flat Island for much of the afternoon. 32 Barnacle Geese still. Duck numbers: 61 Gadwall, 17 Wigeon, 5 Teal (presumably missed some), 107 Mallard, 967 Pochard, 364 Tufted, 12 Goldeneye, plus 20 Little and 74 GCGrebes. 32 Lapwing. Adult Yellow-legged Gull at sailing club. Peregrine over Hall Wood. A flock of 500+ (1,000?) Starlings flew S behind Hall Wood late afternoon.22/01/2025
Simon Roddis, Alan StewardsonThe GN and Red-throated Divers were still visible from both Stones island and Millfields this morning, although the 2 immature drake Scaup had moved maybe 200m north and we only picked them up from WLC creek, looking off Shiningford island. 33 Barnacle Geese still. Woodcock and Tawny Owl at Hopton end first thing. My first singing Song Thrush of the year at Millfields. 2 Willow Tits on Stones.20/01/2025


Historic Sightings

DateSightingName
2020-02-05Great Northern Diver still present, seen from Stones island, 8 Goldeneye, 2 Oystercatchers,2 Redshank ,1 Chiffchaff and 20 Common Snipe TALC. AHS,RC.
2020-02-02Species seen during Birdwatching for Beginners walk today (10am-noon) from WLC to Stones Island: Dunnock, Robin, Blue Tit, Redwing, Great Tit, Song Thrush, Long-tailed Tit, Goldfinch, Woodpigeon, Blackbird, Jackdaw, Collared Dove, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Coot, Mallard, Gt Crested Grebe, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Goldeneye, Little Grebe, Pochard, Wigeon, Chaffinch, Coal Tit, Willow Tit, Snipe, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Gt Black-backed Gull, Teal, Canada Goose, Moorhen, Redshank, Gt Northern Diver, Cormorant, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Mute Swan, House Sparrow, Goldcrest, PeregrineGary Atkins
2020-02-02The adult GNDiver still, but didn't see the juv. 31 Barnacle Geese. 11 Greylags. 9 Goldeneye (4m,5f) at Sheepwash. c350 Lapwing. 2 Oystercatcher. 46 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 2 first-winter Yellow-legged Gulls. 5 Stock Dove. 3 GSWoodpecker, including one drumming at the top of WLC creek. 2 Skylark over WLC creek. Chiffchaff at the WLC. 35 Siskin at Millfields. Simon Roddis
2020-02-01The adult GNDiver again, out in the middle. 203 Canada Geese. 16 Wigeon. 550 Lapwing and 20 Common Snipe on Horsehoe island. 2 Redshank. 1w Yellow-legged Gull. Chiffchaff on Stones island. Total of 150 Redwing (including 70 at Millfields, 60 at Sheepwash). 10 Tree Sparrows (7 Millfields, 3 WLC).Simon Roddis
2020-01-31The adult GNDiver out in the middle still. 160 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacles. 10 Wigeon. 13 Goldeneye. c450 Lapwing. 1 Oystercatcher. 1 Curlew S over the visitor centre. 30 Snipe on Horseshoe island. Kingfisher at Sheepwash. 9 Tree Sparrow (8 at Millfields, 1 at WLC). 15 Siskin at Millfields.Simon Roddis
2020-01-29Adult and juv GNDivers still. The juv caught a crayfish (I think it's the first time in over 500 sightings of GND at Carsington that I've seen one with prey - they usually swallow it underwater) and shook it so that there were bits of crayfish flying everywhere, which it then retrieved and swallowed. 170 Canada Geese. 355 Pochard. 15 Goldeneye. 3 Grey Heron. 27 Cormorant. 1 Oystercatcher on Millfields island, then flew towards Stones. 1 Dunlin through. c200 Lapwing. 23 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 1 Peregrine seen several times from Stones/WLC creek. Chiffchaff still on Stones. 200 Starlings in fields at the top of WLC creek. Simon Roddis
2020-01-28The adult GNDiver from Stones island early morning and a Jack Snipe at the WLC. 11 Pintail (7m,4f) also off Stones but very skittish and flew shortly after I saw them. A Red Kite flew south down the west side, over Carsington Pastures then behind the Visitor Centre and over Hognaston around 11:00. 10 Goldeneye. 38 GCGrebe from Millfields. 22 Cormorant on the Sailing Club raft. c400 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. 2 Redshank. 1w Yellow-legged Gull and adult GBbG. Simon Roddis
2020-01-25Great Northern diver, Sparrowhawk, Kingfisher, Redwing. (Around Stones Island)Matthew Birkin
2020-01-24Both GNDivers still, the juv off the WLC and the adult off Millfields. 1 Jack and 27 Common Snipe on Horseshoe island. Female Pintail off WLC and the Cetti's Warbler still in the reedbed. 159 Pochard from Sheepwash (121m,38f). c350 Lapwing. 2 Yellow-legged Gull (adult and 1w). Chiffchaff and singing Willow Tit on Stones island. c100 Redwing at Sheepwash. 40 Goldfinch (plus 1 Siskin and 1 Lesser Redpoll) at WLC.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2020-01-23Both GNDivers found once the fog had lifted late morning, the adult out in the middle and the juv close in at Millfields. 1 Jack Snipe, 45 Common Snipe and c300 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. The juv Grey Heron there had another vole for elevenses. At Hopton end early morning, 1 Woodcock, 4 calling Tawny Owls, 2, maybe 3 Grey Wags out of the reedbed, and singing Willow Tit. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls (ad and 1w). The Cetti's Warbler still in WLC creek. Total of 170 Redwing. 20+ Chaffinch at Penn Carr. 50 Goldfinch at WLC. Total of 40 Siskin including 25 at Brown Ale Bay.Simon Roddis
2020-01-22The adult GNDiver was off Stones island and the juv was seen by Dan Martin in front of the WLC. Dan also reported a Heron catching and swallowing a vole on Horseshoe island. 100 Canada Geese. 4 Greylags. 4 Mute Swans. 26 Common Snipe on Horseshoe island. Didn't see any Jacks but I guess they're still there. 370 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. Chiffchaff on Stones island.Simon Roddis
2020-01-21The adult GNDiver was between Stones and Millfields, and one Jack Snipe at the WLC. 22 Greylags. Female Pintail at WLC. 4 Goosander (2m,2f) at Millfields, and 57 GCGrebe counted from the viewing area. 2 Grey Heron. 20 Snipe on Horseshoe island. Single adult Herring, 1w Yellow-leg and adult GBbGulls. Kingfisher in WLC/Shiningford creeks. Willow Tit singing in WLC creek. 50 Starling in fields above WLC creek. 8 Tree Sparrows at WLC.Simon Roddis
2020-01-21No sign of yesterday’s Black-necked Grebe around the WLC early morning. Note this species requires rarity form submission to Derbyshire Ornithological Society.Roger Carrington
2020-01-20Enjoy your blog. Visited Carsington for first time today (20th Jan). Thought you might like to know that there was a Black-necked Grebe about 100 metres north of the Wildlife Centre between 13:30 and 14:15 today - probably still around, and 100% certain of identity - textbook winter plumage.Paul Swinhoe
2020-01-20Both GNDivers this morning, the juv close to the shore at Millfields, guess it's been tucked into the west bank for the last few days, and the adult out in the middle. 1 Jack Snipe and 20 Common Snipe on Horseshoe island. 3 Curlew flew past Sheepwash hide at 12:40 but couldn't find anywhere to land and turned back south. 169 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacles. 27 Gadwall (16m,11f). 30 Teal (19m,11f). 52 Wigeon (29m,23f). 194 Pochard. 11 Goldeneye (6m,5f). 15 Little Grebe. 50 GCGrebe. 2 Redshank. 1 imm Herring, 2 Yellow-leg (adult and 1w) and 1 adult GBbGull. 8 Willow Tit. 3 Raven.Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2020-01-19Just the adult GNDiver again this morning, between Stones and Millfields. 3, possibly 4, Jack Snipe on Horseshoe island, plus 20 Common Snipe. At Hopton end early morning, 2 Woodcock, 4 calling Tawny Owls, 4 Stock Dove, 7 Reed Buntings out of the reedbed (plus 2 elsewhere later), 5 Fieldfare SW. 220 Pink-footed Geese NW over the north end at 10:45. 2 Barnacle Geese. Female Pintail from Stones causeway. 282 Lapwing on Sailing Club shore. 5 adult Herring Gulls through. Kingfisher from WLC. 5 Willow Tit. 3 Lesser Redpoll among Goldfinches at WLC.Simon Roddis
2020-01-18The adult GNDiver was between Stones island and Millfields this morning, and 2 Jack Snipe on Horseshoe island. 166 Canada Geese. 10 Greylags (2 out with Canadas, 8 flew in later). 22 Cormorant on the raft off Sailing Club early morning. 330 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. 19 Common Snipe on Horseshoe island. 765 Lesser Black-backs out over Millfields early morning, plus 1 Herring Gull. 2 adult Yellow-legs on the water. Adult GBbG. 500+ (possibly 1,000) Jackdaws over the dam wall early morning. Brief Willow Tit song on Stones, and the Chiffchaff there still. 4 Mistle Thrush, including singing birds at Brown Ale Bay and Hognaston end of the dam wall. 7 Lesser Redpoll on Stones.Simon Roddis
2020-01-17Millfields 13 00 hrs, 4 Lesser Redpoll (Male plus Female), Bullfinch, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Mute Swan, 9 Whooper Swan, GC Grebe, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Pochard, Nuthatch, Robin, Mallard, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Goldeneye.David Horsley
2020-01-17Millfields 13 00 hrs, 4 Lesser Redpoll (Male plus Female), Bullfinch, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Mute Swan, 9 Whooper Swan, GC Grebe, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Pochard, Nuthatch, Robin, Mallard, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Goldeneye.David Horsley
2020-01-17Just the adult GNDiver again today, I wonder if we're just missing the juv? Roger spotted 9 Whooper Swans (7 adults,2 juvs) off Millfields mid-morning, there to 13:00 at least. 1, maybe 2, Jack Snipe on Horseshoe island. 17 Common Snipe there. The Cetti's Warbler showed along the fence down the side of WLC reedbed again. First-winter Yellow-legged Gull. Chiffchaff on Stones. 14 Blackbird in Sheepwash carpark. 50 Goldfinch at WLC.SJR,RC,AD,RJ
2020-01-15Only saw the adult GNDiver this morning, off Stones island. Early morning at Millfields, 500+ LBbGulls and 2 Herring flew out, with 2 Yellow-leg (adult and 1w) and 11 Goldeneye on the water. 172 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacles. 8 Greylag. Total of 186 Pochard (147m,39f) at WLC and Brown Ale Bay. 5 Buzzard over the dam wall. 300 Lapwing. 16 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 2 Redshank. Kingfisher and Chiffchaff on Stones. The Cetti's Warbler called and showed briefly in WLC reedbed. 6 Willow Tit. 50 Goldfinch and 2 Lesser Redpolls feeding on alders at the WLC. 2m Reed Bunting on Sheepwash carpark feeder.Simon Roddis
2020-01-14Adult and juv GNDivers again from Stones island, and Chiffchaff and Long-tailed Tits flycatching there. 2 Barnacle Geese. 5 Mute Swans. 14 Goldeneye. 350 Lapwing. 13 Common Snipe. 6 Willow Tit. 20 Siskin at Millfields.Simon Roddis
2020-01-13Both GNDivers from Stones island this morning, plus a Chiffchaff there again. One Jack Snipe showing on Horseshoe island. 34 Pink-footed Geese flew SW at 10:10. 291 Pochard. 350 Lapwing. 14 Common Snipe. 1 first-winter Herring Gull. 52 Rooks. 170 Redwing (120 at Sheepwash, 50 at Millfields). 30 Chaffinch (20 at Sheepwash, 10 at WLC). Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2020-01-12Monthly WeBS count: 2 GNDivers, 101 Canadas, 5 Mute Swan (including colour-ringed bird JCA back at Paul Stanley), 33 Gadwall (20m,13f), 54 Wigeon (28m,26f), 147 Mallard (89m,58f), 1f Pintail, 62 Teal (40m,22f), 306 Pochard (223m,83f), 133 Tufted (100m,33f), 11 Goldeneye (6m,5f), 1m Goosander, 15 Little Grebe, 37 GCGrebe, 1 Grey Heron, 27 Cormorant, 8 Moorhen, 487 Coot, 370 Lapwing, 3 Woodcock, 16 Snipe, 3 Jack Snipe, 2 Redshank, 2 Kingfisher. Also: 5 Tawny Owls calling at Hopton end early morning. 1 Skylark over Millfields. Chiffchaff on Stones. 4 Mistle Thrush, including singing birds at Sheepwash and Brown Ale Bay. 25 Siskin at BABay.Simon Roddis, John Bradley
2020-01-11Jack Snipe again on Horseshoe island. Adult GNDiver from Stones island looking towards Millfields (juv also reported off Stones). c380 Lapwing. 3 Woodcock into Hopton end early morning. 15 Common Snipe on Horseshoe island. Simon Roddis
2020-01-10The juv GNDiver was right in front of the WLC at around 09:00 this morning, and the adult between Stones island and Millfields. The Jack Snipe was among the cut-off brambles on Horseshoe island. 117 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacles. 2 Greylag. 75 Pink-feet flew W just after 11:00. 37 Teal at Sheepwash. 38 GCGrebes from Millfields. 2 Grey Heron. c 200 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. Adult GBbGull and near-ad Yellow-leg. 2 GSWoodpecker, including one drumming at Brown Ale Bay, and 20 Siskin there. Simon Roddis
2020-01-09Adult and juv GNDivers again on their usual beats. 5 Shelduck at Millfields (and flying around). 3 Goosander at Millfields early morning. c280 Lapwing. 2 adult Herring Gull. 4 Raven (2 pairs). 6 Willow Tit. Chiffchaff still on Stones. 35 Starling and 2 Fieldfare over WLC creek. Simon Roddis
2020-01-08Both GNDivers still; the juv seems to be spending more time in the Watersports/WLC area now, the adult still out in the middle. 127 Canada Geese. 38 Gadwall. 41 Wigeon. 102 Mallard. 35 Teal. Female Pintail in Shiningford creek. 299 Pochard (198m,101f). 13 Goldeneye. 15 Little Grebe. 23 Cormorant. c400 Lapwing. 14 Snipe on Horseshoe island. First-winter Yellow-legged Gull. 3+ Raven. The Cetti's Warbler again called from WLC reedbed. Chiffchaff on Stones. 9 Tree Sparrow at Millfields. 14 Bullfinch (12 at Millfields). 15 Lesser Redpoll (13 at Millfields).Simon Roddis
2020-01-07Both GNDivers initially from Stones island, then the juv again later from the WLC. The Jack Snipe showed well on Horseshoe island mid-morning. 160 Canada Geese. 2 Shelduck. 242 Pochard from Sheepwash hide (181m,61f). 2 Grey Heron. Adult GBBGull. Chiffchaff again flycatching on Stones island.Simon Roddis
2020-01-06Adult and juv GNDiver from Stones again, then the juv at WLC mid-morning. 90 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacles. 1 Shelduck. 30 Wigeon. 4 Buzzard. c350 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. 14 Snipe. 1 adult Herring Gull. Kingfisher from PS hide. 6 Willow Tit. The Cetti's Warbler showed really well just after 10:00 in WLC reedbed, low in the single Alder near the main track; it and a Wren appeared to be scolding something on the ground (a Stoat maybe?). Chiffchaff on Stones. 70+ Redwing at Sheepwash. Simon Roddis, Alan Stewardson
2020-01-056 Goldeneye,26 Wigeon, 14 Gadwall,275 lapwing,8 Blue Tit,10 Goldfinch,8 Long Tailed Tit,4 Robin,120 Canada Goose,1 Redwing, 10 Great Crested Grebe,20 Cormorant,1 Kestrel,2 Little Grebe,2 Chaffinch,1 Dunnock,4 Snipe,1 Redshank,2 Willow Tit,7 Tree Sparrow,5 Great Tit,62 Pochard,6 Teal,1 Great Northern Diver off stonesDavid Armitt
2020-01-05Species (39) noted during the monthly Birdwatching for Beginners walk (10am-noon between Stones Island and WLC): Coot, House Sparrow, Mute Swan, Mallard, Goldeneye, Wigeon, Pheasant, Black-headed Gull, Gadwall, Tufted Duck, Gt Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Canada Goose, Goldfinch, Blackbird, Lapwing, Carrion Crow, Magpie, Wren, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Long-tailed Tit, Gt Northern Diver, Dunnock, Raven, Robin, Little Grebe, Blue Tit, Nuthatch, Jackdaw, Great Tit, Redshank, Tree Sparrow, Snipe, Willow Tit, Woodpigeon, Pochard, Barnacle Goose, Moorhen, ChaffinchGary Atkins
2020-01-058 Goosander at Millfields at dawn. Water Rail feeding at side of PSHide. Chiffchaff still on Stones Island. Cetti’s Warbler calling with ‘rattle’ and single note calls while moving rapidly through small reedbed by Wildlife Centre mid morning.Roger Carrington
2020-01-04The adult and juv GNDivers were still in their favoured areas this morning. 2 adult Whooper Swans untill 11:00 at least, in the Stones/WLC area. 230 Canadas. 30 Barnacles (the flock of 28 plus 2 which flew out with Canadas). 23 Gadwall. 29 Wigeon. 2m Goosander at Millfields early morning, and 29 Cormorants on the raft in Sailing Club Bay. c300 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. Adult Yellow-legged Gull off Brown Ale Bay. 1 Peregrine. 600 Jackdaws over the dam wall early morning. 4+ Raven. Chiffchaff on Stones still. Total of 85 Redwing. 15 Tree Sparrow (10 WLC, 5 Millfields). 10 Bullfinch, including 7 at Millfields.Simon Roddis
2020-01-03Both GNDivers from Stones and the Jack Snipe showed again on Horseshoe island from the WLC. 110 Canada Geese. 28 Barnacles. 4 Shoveler (2m,2f) around Horseshoe. 225 Pochard. 415 Lapwing. 33 Rooks and 5 Raven over Hall Wood. 5 Willow Tit. Chiffchaff again on Stones. 12 Tree Sparrow (11 WLC, 1 Millfields).Simon Roddis
2020-01-023 Tree sparrow on feeders at Millfields car park. Matthew Birkin
2020-01-02Goldcrest on trail to Sheepwash car park from the centre about 11.30Sandra Coxon
2020-01-02The adult and juv GNDivers from Stones still this morning and the Jack Snipe again at the WLC. 4 Woodcock flew into Hopton end at first light and a Water |rail calling in the reedbed. 80 Pink-footed Geese flew NE at 11:40. 170 Canada Geese. 24 Barnacles. 27 Gadwall. 22 Wigeon. 9 Goldeneye. 350 Lapwing, rather unsettled by a Peregrine. 12 Snipe on Horseshoe island. c50 Redwing, 50 Goldfinch and 20 Siskin at Sheepwash. Simon Roddis
2020-01-01Reasonable start to 2020 with, Woodcock flying in to Hopton end at 07:30 and a rather vocal Water Rail in the Reedbed there. Adult and juv GNDivers off Stones Island. The Jack Snipe occasionally ‘bouncing’ but mainly hidden in brambles on Horseshoe Island. Also a pair of Shoveler and 21 Barnacles there. Near adult Yellow-legged Gull mobile around the site.Roger Carrington
2019-12-31Both GNDivers still. 21 Barnacle Geese. 7 Greylags. 41 Wigeon. 317 Pochard - definite increase on recent days. 1 Goosander. 35 GCGrebe from Millfields. 32 Cormorant. 4 Buzzard. 540 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. 1 Redshank. 18 Snipe (Alan S's count). Gull counts from Lane End at 4pm: c5,000 Black-heads, 2,000 Common, 420 Lesser Black-back, 4 Greater, 3 Yellow-leg. 5 Willow Tit. 85 Redwing. 7 Tree Sparrow (2 WLC, 5 Millfields). 1 Linnet over Millfields. 3 Lesser Redpoll. 20 Siskin.Simon Roddis
2019-12-30Both GNDivers between Stones and Millfields. 98 Canada Geese. 22 Greylags flew in at dusk. 2 Mute Swan. 1 Shelduck at WLC (Alan S.). 38 Gadwall. 36 Wigeon. 114 Mallard. 18 Teal. 190 Pochard. 126 Tufted. 11 Goldeneye. 15 Little Grebe. 47 GCGrebe. (Failed to find the reported Red-necked Grebe.) 2 Grey Heron. 15 Cormorant. 4 Buzzard. 2 Water Rail (Hopton reedbed and Brown Ale Bay). 3 Moorhen. 449 Coot. 300 Lapwing. 6 Snipe. 1 Redshank. c1000 Common Gulls from Sheepwash hide by 15:00. 1 adult Yellow-leg. 1 GBbG. Kingfisher at Sheepwash/BABay. Alan and I had a total of 8 GSWoodpeckers on the west side. 2 Kestrel. 1 Peregrine worrying the Lapwing flock on Horseshoe island. 10 Coal Tit. 7 Willow Tit. 39 Blue Tit. 25 Great Tit. 22 Long-tailed Tit. 1 Chiffchaff on Stones. 33 Blackbird. 98 Redwing. 5 Tree Sparrows at Millfields. Totals of 16 Bullfinch and 34 Siskin.Simon Roddis
2019-12-29The adult GNDiver was between Stones island and Millfields this morning, didn't see the juv. The Jack Snipe was visible on Horseshoe island mid-morning. 174 Canada Geese. 1 Barnacle. 3 Mute Swans. 21 Gadwall. 42 Wigeon. 129 Mallard. 24 Teal. 202 Pochard. 12 Goldeneye. 9 Goosander (4m,4f at Millfields early morning and a f N over Stones). 500 Lapwing, 10 Snipe and 2 Redshank on Horseshoe island. 760 LBbG out over Millfields early morning. The near-ad Yellow-leg still. 3 Tawny Owls calling at Millfields. Kingfisher at Sheepwash and Hopton end (same bird?). 500 Jackdaw and 55 Rooks on/over the Millfields end of the dam wall early morning. 26 Long-tailed Tit. 2 Chiffchaff on Stones. Totals of 135 Goldfinch and 75 Siskin (flock of 70 at Millfields).Simon Roddis
2019-12-28The adult and juv GNDivers still from Stones island this morning. 130 Canada Geese. 3 Mute Swans. 34 Gadwall. 6 Goldeneye. 22 Pheasant (most at Hopton end). 14 Little Grebe. 50 GCGrebe. 1 Grey Heron. 18 Cormorant. Water Rail calling in Hopton reedbed. c400 Lapwing, 14 Snipe and 1 Redshank on Horseshoe island. 4 Woodcock flew into the Hopton end at first light, and 8 Tawny Owls calling there. 1 Peregrine over Horseshoe island. Passerine counts: 14 Magpie, 66 Jackdaw, 23 Rook, 27 Carrion Crow, 4 Coal Tit, 3 Willow Tit, 40 Blue Tit, 15 Great Tit, 22 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Chiffchaff on Stones, 3 Goldcrest, 18 Wren, 4 Nuthatch, 2 Treecreeper, 39 Starling, 31 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, 101 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 34 Robin, 40 House Sparrow at VC, 9 Tree Sparrow, 15 Dunnock, 2 Grey Wag, 7 Pied Wag, 2 Meadow Pipit, 23 Chaffinch, 9 Bullfinch, 3 Greenfinch, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 50 Goldfinch, 8 Siskin and 8 Reed Bunting.Simon Roddis
2019-12-27Both GNDivers again from Stones island, the adult quite distantly towards Millfields but the juv patrolled up and down not too far out. The Jack Snipe was visible for a few minutes on Horseshoe island late morning. 149 Canada Geese. 3 Mute Swans. 25 Gadwall. 31 Wigeon. 157 Pochard. 7 Goldeneye. 450 Lapwing and 6 Snipe on Horseshoe island. 2 Redshank. 500+ Common Gulls flew out of Sailing CLub bay early morning. The near-ad Yellow-leg, 1 Herring and 1 GBbGull. Female Kingfisher in Brown Ale bay. 2 GSWoodpecker, including one drumming at Penn Carr. 5 Willow Tit. Chiffchaff again on Stones island. Totals of 170 Redwing, 28 Goldfinch and 40 Siskin. SJR, AHS, Rowan Wakefield, Lindsey Wakefield
2019-12-26The adult and juv GNDivers again in their usual areas this morning. 4 Whooper Swans flew W at 08:55. 197 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacles. 1 Greylag. 16 Gadwall. 16 Wigeon. c100 Mallard. 156 Pochard. 10 Goldeneye. 500 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. c7,000 BhGulls, 650 LBbG and 600 Jackdaws from Millfields early morning. 6 Willow Tit. Chiffchaff on Stones.Simon Roddis
2019-12-25Both GNDivers again in their usual spots early morning. 201 Canada Geese. 2 Barnacle Geese. Female Pintail again at WLC. 10 Goosander (5m,5f) at Millfields. 24 Cormorant. 370 Lapwing. 2 Redshank. 4 Woodcock at the Hopton end at first light. 1 adult Herring Gull and the near-ad Yellow-leg. 6 Stock Dove. At least 5 Tawny Owls calling at the Hopton end, seemingly reacting to a barking Muntjac behind the village. 2 Chiffchaff (Stones and Paul Stanley). 10 Tree Sparrows (8 at Millfields, 2 WLC). 20 Siskin and a Lesser Redpoll at Millfields. Happy Christmas!Simon Roddis
2019-12-24Both GNDivers still. 142 Canada Geese. 4 Mute Swans. 35 Gadwall. Female Pintail at WLC. 61 Teal. 215 Pochard. 13 Goldeneye. 20 Little Grebe. 1 Grey Heron. 27 Cormorant. Water Rail calling in Hopton reedbed. 548 Lapwing. 1 Golden Plover. 1 Redshank. Kingfisher and Chiffchaff on Stones island, and 70 Rooks over. 240 Redwing (200 at Sheepwash). 1 Grey Wag and 6 Reed Bunting in Hopton reedbed early morning.Simon Roddis
2019-12-23Both GNDivers off Stones island early morning. 158 Canada Geese, 2 Barnacle and 9 Greylags. 177 Pochard (138m,39f). 8 Goosander (3m,5f) at Millfields first thing. 17 Cormorant. 1 Woodcock at Penn Carr at first light, and 2 Tawny Owls calling. c7,000 BhGulls off Millfields first thing. The near-ad Yellow-legged Gull still. 8 Stock Doves over the east side. 70 Rooks over Stones. 95 Redwing at Sheepwash. c50 Goldfinch in Shiningford creek and a mixed flock of c40 Goldfinch and Siskin at Sheepwash.Simon Roddis
2019-12-22A Great White Egret flew over Stones island at 08:40, landed for a minute on Watersports and then flew on and landed in Shiningford creek but not seen again as far as I know. Both GNDivers still. c220 Pink-footed Geese flew E over Stones at 09:55. 157 Canadas. 1 Greylag. c500 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. 2 Woodcock, 1 Water Rail, 4 calling Tawny Owls, 1 Kingfisher and 1 Grey Wag at Hopton end early morning. 2 GBbGulls. 3 Kestrels (2 on Stones, 1 at Millfields). Chiffchaff on Stones again. c350 Redwing at Penn Carr, and 1 singing on Stones. 4+ Lesser Redpoll (2 on Stones, 2+ at Millfields).Simon Roddis
2019-12-21Both GNDivers again this morning, the juvenile only feet away from the shoreline off Stones early morning, and the adult from Millfields later. 570 Lapwing on Horseshoe island. 2 Yellow-legged Gull. c500 Jackdaw over the visitor centre early morning. 120 Redwing at Millfields.Simon Roddis

Scroll to Top