Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, 3 Cormorants, Grey Heron, 29 Coots, 5 Gadwall, 5 Shoveler, 47 Teal, 4 Tufted Ducks, 2 Goosander, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, 66 Bh Gulls. Visible Migration: 128 Redwing, 59 Fieldfare, 3 Skylarks, 7 Meadow Pipits, 22 Siskins, 5 Chaffinch, 11 Lesser Redpoll, Brambling.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Adult Yellow-legged Gull flew north, 4 Pochard, 12 Tufted Duck, 2 Goosander flew through, 22 Great Crested Grebes, Brambling.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Adult and 1st winter Med Gull, 2 adult and 2 2nd winter Yellow-legged Gulls, 70 Snipe, 97 Wigeon.
Staffs: Parkhall CP: Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Marsh Tit.
Staffs: Branston GP's: Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Ruff, 2 Redshank, 10 Curlew, 656 Golden Plover, 350 Lapwing, c300 Greylag Geese, c300 Teal, 13 Pochard, 7 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 12 Little Grebe, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, 100's of Fieldfare and Redwings, 60 Goldfinch, 20 Long-tailed Tits.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: 1st winter drake Scaup still on sailing lake.
Staffs: Aqualate Park: Black-necked Grebe still on Aqualate Mere.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup.
Notts: Lound: Possible Firecrest in gardens near crossroads.
Notts: Hoveringham GP's: Adult Caspian Gull roosted on the sailing lake, also 3 Med Gulls.
Notts: Kilvington: 5 Red-crested Pochards on east lake.
Notts: Attenborough NR: Jack Snipe still on Tween Pond.
Wednesday, 31 October 2012
Counting Pigeons (again)
As Autumn seemingly turned into Winter overnight as temperatures plummeted I was down the patch on Saturday morning and it was quickly apparent that the Wood Pigeon was going to be the main feature of the day. With my little black book at the ready I started noting down stuff going through. The little black book is a new addition to my birding day. It's something I've noticed recently that maybe because of age I can't remember things like I used to. It's something I've noticed recently that maybe because of age I can't remember things like I used to.
I used to have quite a photographic memory and could quite easily recall all my sightings, and figures too. But alas, not anymore, so the little black book is just as essential to my birding day as my scope and bins.
I still don't know why Wyver can be so good for a bit of vis migging as it sits low down in the valley. Most 'good' vis migging spots are on high ground which is naturally good for passing migrants. All I can think of with Wyver is that the birds come over the moors which are several miles away to the North East and then drop down and funnel down the valley and directly over the reserve. Whatever the reasons days like Saturday and today don't happen very often.
At the weekend I don't think I've ever seen as many Pigeons as I did. They were piling through in flocks ranging from just a dozen or so to several hundred. By the time I had finished I had amassed 3'760. The sort of figure I thought only a well known vis migging site would get. Also the sort of figure I thought would be hard to emulate.
Yesterday however was more of the same. From 07.30 there was an almost constant stream and at times they were difficult to count. There were flocks at the southern end of the reserve, the middle and the northern end, and sometimes at the same time. I did the best I could and ended up with 4'590 but there was probably more. The funny thing was that by 08.30 they had all but dried up and very few went through after that time.
Just when I feel like I'm getting to grips with and understanding the complexities of vis migging I get a day like today. From yesterday's 4'590 Woodies today I had a big fat zero. The only thing I can think of, is that today the wind was coming from the SW so maybe pushing the Pigeons further North.
I used to have quite a photographic memory and could quite easily recall all my sightings, and figures too. But alas, not anymore, so the little black book is just as essential to my birding day as my scope and bins.
I still don't know why Wyver can be so good for a bit of vis migging as it sits low down in the valley. Most 'good' vis migging spots are on high ground which is naturally good for passing migrants. All I can think of with Wyver is that the birds come over the moors which are several miles away to the North East and then drop down and funnel down the valley and directly over the reserve. Whatever the reasons days like Saturday and today don't happen very often.
At the weekend I don't think I've ever seen as many Pigeons as I did. They were piling through in flocks ranging from just a dozen or so to several hundred. By the time I had finished I had amassed 3'760. The sort of figure I thought only a well known vis migging site would get. Also the sort of figure I thought would be hard to emulate.
Yesterday however was more of the same. From 07.30 there was an almost constant stream and at times they were difficult to count. There were flocks at the southern end of the reserve, the middle and the northern end, and sometimes at the same time. I did the best I could and ended up with 4'590 but there was probably more. The funny thing was that by 08.30 they had all but dried up and very few went through after that time.
Just when I feel like I'm getting to grips with and understanding the complexities of vis migging I get a day like today. From yesterday's 4'590 Woodies today I had a big fat zero. The only thing I can think of, is that today the wind was coming from the SW so maybe pushing the Pigeons further North.
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
Latest Sightings 30/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, Grey Heron, 34 Coots, 11 Moorhens, c100 Greylag Geese, 4 Pheasants, 15 Lapwing, Snipe, 40 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 8 Shoveler, 35 Wigeon, 2 Buzzards, 2 Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, 142 Bh Gulls, 58 LBB Gulls, Little Owl, 6 Blackbirds, 3 Stock Doves. Visible Migration: 4'590 Wood Pigeon, 1'070 Starling, 221 Fieldfare, 36 Redwings, 16 Skylarks, 3 Meadow Pipits, 2 'alba' Wagtails, Song Thrush, Linnet, Brambling, 8 Lesser Redpoll, Siskin, 4 Greenfinch, 9 Chaffinch, 2 Yellowhammers.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Imm drake Scaup still.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: 1st winter drake Scaup still.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): A Crossbill flew west at 12.30pm, 4 Swallows through south, a Chiff Chaff along the Gazebo Bay, 2 Med Gulls (adult and 1st winter), 94 Wigeon, 64 Teal, 2 Shelduck.
Staffs: Chesterton: 2 Black Redstarts.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: 37 Snipe, 2 Kingfisher, 37 Fieldfare, Grey Wagtail, 10 Goosander, 26 Shoveler, 6 Pochard, 101 Teal.
Staffs: Berryhill: Short-eared Owl. Visible Migration: 10 Lapwings, 280 Wood Pigeons, 4 Skylarks, 5 'alba' Wagtails, 525 Fieldfare, 64 Redwing, 530 Starlings, 77 Chaffinch, 12 Brambling, 36 Finch sp, 2 Greenfinch, 2 Linnets, 3 Lesser Redpoll.
Staffs: Upper Longdon: Great Grey Shrike still present in clearfell area just south of Startley Lane.
Staffs: Aqualate Mere: Bittern seen in flight this morning, also Black-necked Grebe still.
Staffs: Park Hall CP: Lesser Spotted Woodpecker.
Staffs: Black Bank: Visible Migration: 6 Whooper Swans, 238 Wood Pigeon, 12 Meadow Pipit, 14 Fieldfare, 34 Redwing, 30 Starling, 121 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 9 Greenfinch, 8 Siskins, 4 Linnets.
Notts: Attenborough NR: Jack Snipe.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Imm drake Scaup still.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: 1st winter drake Scaup still.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): A Crossbill flew west at 12.30pm, 4 Swallows through south, a Chiff Chaff along the Gazebo Bay, 2 Med Gulls (adult and 1st winter), 94 Wigeon, 64 Teal, 2 Shelduck.
Staffs: Chesterton: 2 Black Redstarts.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: 37 Snipe, 2 Kingfisher, 37 Fieldfare, Grey Wagtail, 10 Goosander, 26 Shoveler, 6 Pochard, 101 Teal.
Staffs: Berryhill: Short-eared Owl. Visible Migration: 10 Lapwings, 280 Wood Pigeons, 4 Skylarks, 5 'alba' Wagtails, 525 Fieldfare, 64 Redwing, 530 Starlings, 77 Chaffinch, 12 Brambling, 36 Finch sp, 2 Greenfinch, 2 Linnets, 3 Lesser Redpoll.
Staffs: Upper Longdon: Great Grey Shrike still present in clearfell area just south of Startley Lane.
Staffs: Aqualate Mere: Bittern seen in flight this morning, also Black-necked Grebe still.
Staffs: Park Hall CP: Lesser Spotted Woodpecker.
Staffs: Black Bank: Visible Migration: 6 Whooper Swans, 238 Wood Pigeon, 12 Meadow Pipit, 14 Fieldfare, 34 Redwing, 30 Starling, 121 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 9 Greenfinch, 8 Siskins, 4 Linnets.
Notts: Attenborough NR: Jack Snipe.
Monday, 29 October 2012
Latest Sightings 29/10/2012
Derbys: Carsington Water: 33 Cormorants, Grey Heron, 49 Wigeon, 2 Pintail, Shoveler, 213 Teal, 204 Pochard, 7 Goldeneye, Goosander, 2 Buzzards, Kestrel, 2 Dunlin, 75+ Lapwings, Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, 10 Meadow Pipits, 9 Skylarks, 35 Siskins, c100 Redwing, c350 Starlings, 2 Raven, 220 Common Gulls, 6 Herring Gulls, 2 GBB Gulls, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Water Rail, 2 Snipe, Green Woodpecker, c15 Bramblings over Highoredish.
Derbys: Carr Vale NR: Rock Pipit.
Staffs: Codsall: Juvenile Common Rosefinch 1.5 miles ESE of Codsall on feeders by the Shropshire Union Canal at 11.00. From the Turnover Bridge on the Droveway follow towpath north west for 150m to view west across the canal by the moored boats.
Staffs: Upper Longdon: Great Grey Shrike sill in clearfell south of Startley Lane at SK015143.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter Scaup still present, also 5 Common Gulls and 3 Pochards.
Staffs: Alton Farmland: 230 Fieldfare, 10 Siskin, 2 Redpoll.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Kingfisher, Tawny Owl.
Notts: Holme Pierrepont: 30 Gadwall, 190 Wigeon, 25 Teal, Red-crested Pochard, 34 Pochard, 19 Goldeneye, 5 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Little Egrets, 2 Redshank, 2 Common Gulls, Green Woodpecker, 35 Redwing, 600 Starlings, Kestrel. Blotts Pit: 28 Wigeon, 12 Shoveler, 4 Great Crested Grebes, Grey Heron, Buzzard, 2 Kestrels.
Notts: Clumber Park: 3 Red-crested Pochards, c200 Fieldfare.
Notts: Keyworth: 3 Waxwings.
Notts: Collingham Pits: Knot.
Notts: Idle Valley: Short-eared Owl.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Water Rail, 2 Snipe, Green Woodpecker, c15 Bramblings over Highoredish.
Derbys: Carr Vale NR: Rock Pipit.
Staffs: Codsall: Juvenile Common Rosefinch 1.5 miles ESE of Codsall on feeders by the Shropshire Union Canal at 11.00. From the Turnover Bridge on the Droveway follow towpath north west for 150m to view west across the canal by the moored boats.
Staffs: Upper Longdon: Great Grey Shrike sill in clearfell south of Startley Lane at SK015143.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter Scaup still present, also 5 Common Gulls and 3 Pochards.
Staffs: Alton Farmland: 230 Fieldfare, 10 Siskin, 2 Redpoll.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Kingfisher, Tawny Owl.
Notts: Holme Pierrepont: 30 Gadwall, 190 Wigeon, 25 Teal, Red-crested Pochard, 34 Pochard, 19 Goldeneye, 5 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Little Egrets, 2 Redshank, 2 Common Gulls, Green Woodpecker, 35 Redwing, 600 Starlings, Kestrel. Blotts Pit: 28 Wigeon, 12 Shoveler, 4 Great Crested Grebes, Grey Heron, Buzzard, 2 Kestrels.
Notts: Clumber Park: 3 Red-crested Pochards, c200 Fieldfare.
Notts: Keyworth: 3 Waxwings.
Notts: Collingham Pits: Knot.
Notts: Idle Valley: Short-eared Owl.
Sunday, 28 October 2012
Latest Sightings 28/10/2012
Derbys: Carsington Water: 3 Whooper Swans, 24 Mute Swans, 32 Cormorants, 4 Shelduck, Pintail, Shoveler, 95 Pochard, Bar-tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Oystercatcher, Kingfisher, 15 Meadow Pipits, Yellow-legged Gull, 1'700 Starlings, Brambling, Yellowhammer.
Derbys: Middleton Moor: c20 presumed Red-legged Partridge, c40 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 9 Tufted Duck, 21 Coots, 16 Lapwings, 38 Fieldfare.
Derbys: Barbrook: c100 Starlings.
Derbys: Flash Lane: 6 Brambling, 2 Crossbills.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: 128 Wigeon, 3 Mandarin, 2 Goosander, Kestrel, 2 Peregrine, 3 Sparrowhawks, 2 Buzzards, 4 Ruff W, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker W, 27 Blackbirds, 94 Redwing, 283 Fieldfare SW, 3 Goldcrests, 567 Starlings SW, 2 Ravens.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Shelduck, 5 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 10 Teal, 5 Pochard, 2 Goldeneye, Dunlin, Water Rail, 4 Swallows flew S, 1000 Starlings flew West, 2 Bramblings.
Derbys: Wragg's Quarry: Great Grey Shrike.
Derbys: Trent Meadows: Stonechat.
Notts: Attenborough NR: Jack Snipe.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): A Cetti's Warbler was along the gazebo bay, calling and showing well several times (6th record for Belvide), Swallow, 2 Chiff Chaffs, Blackcap, Shelduck, adult Med Gull, 11 Brambling.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 2 Velvet Scoters at the deep end briefly before flying off, drake Scaup, Common Scoter, 3 Goldeneye, Shoveler, Pochard, GBB Gull.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Imm Scaup still, 3 Pochard, 19 Wigeon, 34 Teal, drake Mandarin.
Staffs: Upper Longdon: Great Grey Shrike in clearfell.
Staffs: Apedale: Black Redstart present in area around energy centre.
Staffs: Alton Farmland: 110 Fieldfare, 25 Redwing, 3 Brambling, 200 Starling.
Staffs: Aqualate Mere: Black-necked Grebe still.
Staffs: Whitemoor Haye: 187 Lapwings, 48 Wigeon, 21 Pochard, 8 Mallard, Grey Heron 60 Linnets, 50 Goldfinch, 51 Redwing, 16 Fieldfare, Golden Plover, 25 Stock Doves, 37 Skylark, 8 Yellowhammers, 57 Mute Swans.
Staffs: National Arboretum: 11 Fieldfare and c250 over, 37 Redwing, 2 Goosander, 2 Jay, 6 Skylark, 3 Goldcrests, Grey Heron.
Staffs: Alrewas GP's: Green Sandpiper, 81 Tufted Ducks, 16 Mallards, 34 Coots, 3 Pochard, Little Grebe, several Skylarks, 2 Grey Herons, 35 Fieldfare, 16 Redwings.
Staffs: Churnet Valley Alton area: 180 Fieldfare, 15 Redwing, c100 Siskins, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel.
Staffs: Brookleys Lake: 54 Mandarin, 120 Tufted Duck.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: 1st winter drake Scaup still on sailing lake.
Staffs: Berryhill: 1'120 Fieldfare, 1'115 Starlings, 410 Redwings, 9 Teal.
Staffs: Cheadle: 300 Fieldfare, 400 Redwing, 2 Brambling, 5 Raven, 2 Jays.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: Little Egret, 4 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 19 Teal, 120 Redwing, c30 Fieldfare.
Staffs: Uttoxeter Quarry: 3 Green Sandpipers, Common Sandpiper, 6 Snipe, Curlew, 10 Goosander, 25 Wigeon, 28 Teal, 3 Gadwall, Goldeneye.
Derbys: Middleton Moor: c20 presumed Red-legged Partridge, c40 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 9 Tufted Duck, 21 Coots, 16 Lapwings, 38 Fieldfare.
Derbys: Barbrook: c100 Starlings.
Derbys: Flash Lane: 6 Brambling, 2 Crossbills.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: 128 Wigeon, 3 Mandarin, 2 Goosander, Kestrel, 2 Peregrine, 3 Sparrowhawks, 2 Buzzards, 4 Ruff W, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker W, 27 Blackbirds, 94 Redwing, 283 Fieldfare SW, 3 Goldcrests, 567 Starlings SW, 2 Ravens.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Shelduck, 5 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 10 Teal, 5 Pochard, 2 Goldeneye, Dunlin, Water Rail, 4 Swallows flew S, 1000 Starlings flew West, 2 Bramblings.
Derbys: Wragg's Quarry: Great Grey Shrike.
Derbys: Trent Meadows: Stonechat.
Notts: Attenborough NR: Jack Snipe.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): A Cetti's Warbler was along the gazebo bay, calling and showing well several times (6th record for Belvide), Swallow, 2 Chiff Chaffs, Blackcap, Shelduck, adult Med Gull, 11 Brambling.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 2 Velvet Scoters at the deep end briefly before flying off, drake Scaup, Common Scoter, 3 Goldeneye, Shoveler, Pochard, GBB Gull.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Imm Scaup still, 3 Pochard, 19 Wigeon, 34 Teal, drake Mandarin.
Staffs: Upper Longdon: Great Grey Shrike in clearfell.
Staffs: Apedale: Black Redstart present in area around energy centre.
Staffs: Alton Farmland: 110 Fieldfare, 25 Redwing, 3 Brambling, 200 Starling.
Staffs: Aqualate Mere: Black-necked Grebe still.
Staffs: Whitemoor Haye: 187 Lapwings, 48 Wigeon, 21 Pochard, 8 Mallard, Grey Heron 60 Linnets, 50 Goldfinch, 51 Redwing, 16 Fieldfare, Golden Plover, 25 Stock Doves, 37 Skylark, 8 Yellowhammers, 57 Mute Swans.
Staffs: National Arboretum: 11 Fieldfare and c250 over, 37 Redwing, 2 Goosander, 2 Jay, 6 Skylark, 3 Goldcrests, Grey Heron.
Staffs: Alrewas GP's: Green Sandpiper, 81 Tufted Ducks, 16 Mallards, 34 Coots, 3 Pochard, Little Grebe, several Skylarks, 2 Grey Herons, 35 Fieldfare, 16 Redwings.
Staffs: Churnet Valley Alton area: 180 Fieldfare, 15 Redwing, c100 Siskins, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel.
Staffs: Brookleys Lake: 54 Mandarin, 120 Tufted Duck.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: 1st winter drake Scaup still on sailing lake.
Staffs: Berryhill: 1'120 Fieldfare, 1'115 Starlings, 410 Redwings, 9 Teal.
Staffs: Cheadle: 300 Fieldfare, 400 Redwing, 2 Brambling, 5 Raven, 2 Jays.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: Little Egret, 4 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 19 Teal, 120 Redwing, c30 Fieldfare.
Staffs: Uttoxeter Quarry: 3 Green Sandpipers, Common Sandpiper, 6 Snipe, Curlew, 10 Goosander, 25 Wigeon, 28 Teal, 3 Gadwall, Goldeneye.
Saturday, 27 October 2012
Latest Sightings 27/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, Grey Heron, Cormorant, 122 Canada Geese, 125 Pink-footed Geese flew SE at 09.18, 26 Wigeon, 39 Teal, 20 Coots, 7 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 2 Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks, 73 Bh Gulls, 3 Bullfinch. Visible Migration: 3'760 Wood Pigeons, 350 Fieldfare, 22 Redwing, 175 Starlings, 2 Greenfinch, Pied Wagtail.
Derbys: Wragg's Quarry: Great Grey Shrike, 12 Meadow Pipit.
Derbys: Carsington Water: Slavonian Grebe at the Wildlife Centre.
Derbys: Buxton: 50 Pink-footed Geese SE.
Derbys: Middleton Moor: 2 Whooper Swans.
Derbys: Swarkestone Bridge: Short-eared Owl early am.
Derbys: Hardwick Wood: 75 Pink-footed Geese SE.
Derbys: Shipley Country Park: 80 Pink-footed Geese S.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: 134 Cormorants, 40 Shoveler, 9 Goosander, 400 Bh Gulls, 200 Fieldfares.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 2 Swallows flew S, Gadwall.
Staffs; Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Pintail, 94 Wigeon, adult Med Gull, 1'300 Wood Pigeon SW during visible migration.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 2 Whooper Swans in Blithe Bay this morning, 5 Scaup, 3 Goldeneye, 25 Pochard, 39 Wigeon, Black Tern.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 5 Ruff, 3 Green Sandpipers, 2 Redshank, 243 Golden Plover.
Staffs: Black Bank: 3'909 Wood Pigeons.
Staffs: Aqualate Park: Black-necked Grebe.
Staffs: Tittesowrth Reservoir: Jack Snipe on the Conservation Pool.
Staffs: Middle Hills: 3 Short-eared Owls.
Staffs: Brookleys Lake: 94 Mandarin.
Staffs: Berry Hill: Visible Migration: Golden Plover, Snipe, 455 Wood Pigeon, 12 Meadow Pipits, 124 Fieldfare, 105 Redwings, 25 Starling, 18 Chaffinch, 16 Finch sp.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Scaup still present.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: Scaup and adult Med Gull.
Staffs: Rudyard Lake: 4 Goosanders, 2 Goldeneye, c80 Fieldfare.
Staffs: Uttoxeter Quarry: 7 Golden Plover, c3 Green Sandpiper, Curlew, 24 Wigeon, 28 Teal, 2 Goosander, Gadwall, Raven, c100 Fieldfare, 2 Mandarin, Common Gull, 10 Skylarks.
Notts: Newstead and Annesley CP: Black-necked Grebe.
Notts: Collingham Pits: Knot.
Leics: Rutland Water: Eclipse drake Red-breasted Merganser on Lagoon 1.
Leics: Eyebrook Reservoir: Report of a Lapland Bunting this morning, dropped into rough grass at the north end.
Derbys: Wragg's Quarry: Great Grey Shrike, 12 Meadow Pipit.
Derbys: Carsington Water: Slavonian Grebe at the Wildlife Centre.
Derbys: Buxton: 50 Pink-footed Geese SE.
Derbys: Middleton Moor: 2 Whooper Swans.
Derbys: Swarkestone Bridge: Short-eared Owl early am.
Derbys: Hardwick Wood: 75 Pink-footed Geese SE.
Derbys: Shipley Country Park: 80 Pink-footed Geese S.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: 134 Cormorants, 40 Shoveler, 9 Goosander, 400 Bh Gulls, 200 Fieldfares.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 2 Swallows flew S, Gadwall.
Staffs; Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Pintail, 94 Wigeon, adult Med Gull, 1'300 Wood Pigeon SW during visible migration.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 2 Whooper Swans in Blithe Bay this morning, 5 Scaup, 3 Goldeneye, 25 Pochard, 39 Wigeon, Black Tern.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 5 Ruff, 3 Green Sandpipers, 2 Redshank, 243 Golden Plover.
Staffs: Black Bank: 3'909 Wood Pigeons.
Staffs: Aqualate Park: Black-necked Grebe.
Staffs: Tittesowrth Reservoir: Jack Snipe on the Conservation Pool.
Staffs: Middle Hills: 3 Short-eared Owls.
Staffs: Brookleys Lake: 94 Mandarin.
Staffs: Berry Hill: Visible Migration: Golden Plover, Snipe, 455 Wood Pigeon, 12 Meadow Pipits, 124 Fieldfare, 105 Redwings, 25 Starling, 18 Chaffinch, 16 Finch sp.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Scaup still present.
Staffs: Gailey Reservoirs: Scaup and adult Med Gull.
Staffs: Rudyard Lake: 4 Goosanders, 2 Goldeneye, c80 Fieldfare.
Staffs: Uttoxeter Quarry: 7 Golden Plover, c3 Green Sandpiper, Curlew, 24 Wigeon, 28 Teal, 2 Goosander, Gadwall, Raven, c100 Fieldfare, 2 Mandarin, Common Gull, 10 Skylarks.
Notts: Newstead and Annesley CP: Black-necked Grebe.
Notts: Collingham Pits: Knot.
Leics: Rutland Water: Eclipse drake Red-breasted Merganser on Lagoon 1.
Leics: Eyebrook Reservoir: Report of a Lapland Bunting this morning, dropped into rough grass at the north end.
Friday, 26 October 2012
Latest Sightings 26/10/2012
Derbys: Carsington Water: 4 Whooper Swans, 54 Great Crested Grebes, 29 Cormorants, female Pintail, 170 Teal, 87 Wigeon, 134 Pochard, 9 Goldeneye, 2 Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Dunlin, Yellow-legged Gull, 3 Herring Gulls, GBB Gull, 65 Common Gulls, Grey Wagtail, 2 Skylarks, Kingfisher, 9 Meadow Pipits, 64 Redwings, 220 Fieldfare, 120 Jackdaw, 2 Raven.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 20 Greylag Geese, 2 Wigeon, Gadwall, 10 Teal, 3 Goldeneye, good numbers of Fieldfare and Redwing.
Derbys: Derwent Meadows DWT: 29 Cormorants, 19 Fieldfare, 43 Redwing.
Derbys: Coombs Res: 2 Whooper Swans, 70 Canada Geese, Brent Goose.
Derbys: Dove Hole Quarry: 7 Whooper Swans, 62 Teal, 40 Mallards, 2 Pochard, 14 Tufted Ducks, 4 Common Gulls.
Derbys: Errwood Res: 4 Cormorants, 6 Whooper Swans, Raven.
Derbys: Fernilee Res: 500 Pink-footed Geese East, 3 Teal, 3 Wigeon, Goosander.
Derbys: Hardwick Hall: 555 Pink-footed Geese SE.
Derbys: Bottany Bay: 125 Fieldfare.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup, also 2 Peregrine.
Staffs: Cheddleton: 130 Pink-footed Geese flew southeast along the Churnet Valley at 10.10, also Raven, Fieldfare and 10 Redwings.
Staffs: Parkhall CP: 2 Long-eared Owls in Ox Iron Wood, also 6 Swallows, 20 Golden Plover.
Staffs: Blackbank: 1348 Wood Pigeons, 160 Fieldfare, 65 Redwings, 20 Jackdaw.
Staffs: Berryhill: Ring Ouzel, 2025 Fieldfare, 510 Pink-footed Geese in 3 skeins between 08.45 and 10.00, 120 Redwing, 3 Bramblings.
Staffs: Whitemoor Haye: 1'500 mixed LBB Gulls and BH Gulls, 89 Mute Swans, 17 Lapwings, Sparrowhawk, Peregrine, 2 Kestrels, 652 Fieldfare (400 in one flock, 150 in another and 102 in a field, Little Owl, 9 Tree Sparrows, 13 Grey Partridge, 3 Grey Heron, 6 Mallards, 3 Skylarks.
Staffs: Aqualate Park: 2 Black-necked Grebes on Aqualate Mere.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Female Common Scoter, 30 Goldeneye, 63 Wigeon, 56 Pochard, 4 Little Grebe, several 100 Fieldfare and Redwing, 3 Dunlin, adult Med Gull in roost, imm Peregrine.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only) 3 Whooper Swans.
Notts: Hoveringham GP's: Probable adult Azorean Yellow-legged Gull roosted on sailing lake yesterday.
Notts: Newstead and Annesley CP: Dark Bellied Brent Goose on Middle Lagoon at Annesley Pit Top.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 20 Greylag Geese, 2 Wigeon, Gadwall, 10 Teal, 3 Goldeneye, good numbers of Fieldfare and Redwing.
Derbys: Derwent Meadows DWT: 29 Cormorants, 19 Fieldfare, 43 Redwing.
Derbys: Coombs Res: 2 Whooper Swans, 70 Canada Geese, Brent Goose.
Derbys: Dove Hole Quarry: 7 Whooper Swans, 62 Teal, 40 Mallards, 2 Pochard, 14 Tufted Ducks, 4 Common Gulls.
Derbys: Errwood Res: 4 Cormorants, 6 Whooper Swans, Raven.
Derbys: Fernilee Res: 500 Pink-footed Geese East, 3 Teal, 3 Wigeon, Goosander.
Derbys: Hardwick Hall: 555 Pink-footed Geese SE.
Derbys: Bottany Bay: 125 Fieldfare.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup, also 2 Peregrine.
Staffs: Cheddleton: 130 Pink-footed Geese flew southeast along the Churnet Valley at 10.10, also Raven, Fieldfare and 10 Redwings.
Staffs: Parkhall CP: 2 Long-eared Owls in Ox Iron Wood, also 6 Swallows, 20 Golden Plover.
Staffs: Blackbank: 1348 Wood Pigeons, 160 Fieldfare, 65 Redwings, 20 Jackdaw.
Staffs: Berryhill: Ring Ouzel, 2025 Fieldfare, 510 Pink-footed Geese in 3 skeins between 08.45 and 10.00, 120 Redwing, 3 Bramblings.
Staffs: Whitemoor Haye: 1'500 mixed LBB Gulls and BH Gulls, 89 Mute Swans, 17 Lapwings, Sparrowhawk, Peregrine, 2 Kestrels, 652 Fieldfare (400 in one flock, 150 in another and 102 in a field, Little Owl, 9 Tree Sparrows, 13 Grey Partridge, 3 Grey Heron, 6 Mallards, 3 Skylarks.
Staffs: Aqualate Park: 2 Black-necked Grebes on Aqualate Mere.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Female Common Scoter, 30 Goldeneye, 63 Wigeon, 56 Pochard, 4 Little Grebe, several 100 Fieldfare and Redwing, 3 Dunlin, adult Med Gull in roost, imm Peregrine.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only) 3 Whooper Swans.
Notts: Hoveringham GP's: Probable adult Azorean Yellow-legged Gull roosted on sailing lake yesterday.
Notts: Newstead and Annesley CP: Dark Bellied Brent Goose on Middle Lagoon at Annesley Pit Top.
Where's the justice?
The copper who was convicted of stealing 649 rare birds' eggs has been sentenced. Well, I say sentenced, I wouldn't really call this a sentence. More like getting away with it. Read here.
The fact that he wasn't even jailed and gets to keep his pension is quite scandalous.
The fact that he wasn't even jailed and gets to keep his pension is quite scandalous.
Thursday, 25 October 2012
Latest Sightings 25/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 105 Greylag Geese, 67 Canada Geese, 28 Coots, 2 Buzzards, Kestrel, 47 Teal, 26 Wigeon, 10 Gadwall, 38 Mallards, Pochard, 9 Goosander, 3 Shoveler.
Derbys: Carsington Water: 2 Scaup, 162 Pochard, 3 Pintail, 3 Gadwall, Curlew, Kingfisher, 2 Skylarks, 6 Goldcrests, c100 Redwing, 3 Yellow-legged Gulls.
Derbys: Kedleston Park: Little Grebe, 221 Canada Geese, 85 Greylag Geese, 69 Coots, 21 Mandarin, 19 Gadwall, 35 Tufted Duck, 158 Mallards, 38 Pied Wagtails, 2 Grey wagtails, 3 Grey Herons, c270 BH Gulls, 21 LBB Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, 10 Mute Swans, 15 Fieldfares, c20 Goldfinch, Kestrel, Buzzard, Raven.
Derbys: Beeley Moor: c50 Fieldfare.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Water Pipit circled the reservoir a couple of times then flew S 11.00-11.05, 1 Pink-footed Goose flew W and 6 more NW over Highoredish, 17 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, Pintail, c10 Teal, 2 Goosanders flew N, c200 Lapwings, Snipe. Birds passing over include 47 LBB Gulls, 3 Herring Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, c350 Redwings, c200 Fieldfares, 12 Bramblings and 2 Crossbills.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): An adult Pomarine Skua flew in at 15.55 harassing the Gulls before flying south east at 15.58. The 4th record for Belvide and the first since May 15th 2009, female Common Scoter still, 1st winter Med Gull, 5 Yellow-legged Gulls, 19 Common Gulls, Dunlin, Chiff Chaff, immature Peregrine killed a Wood Pigeon.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 3 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, Ruff, c500 Golden Plover, 9 Curlew, Common Gull, 2 Goldeneye, 5 Wigeon, Gadwall, Pochard, 21 Little Grebes, 2 Great Crested Grebes, Green Woodpecker, Redwings over.
Staffs: Berryhill: 1'705 Fieldfare over, also 435 Redwings, c80 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Bramblings, 3 Siskin, Wheatear, Stonechat, 2 Snipe, 2 Cormorants, 3 Raven.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Scaup still, also Green Woodpecker, 49 Redwings, 4 Fieldfare, Raven.
Staffs: Silverdale CP: Short-eared Owl, Jack Snipe.
Leics: Swithland Water: Great Skua this morning until 10.05, also Common Scoter.
Notts: Netherfield Lagoons: Great White Egret landed in stream by line of willow trees this morning; also drake Green-winged Teal on Slurry Lagoon again.
Notts: Hoveringham GP's: 2 Med Gulls (adult and 1st winter) roosted on sailing lake.
Notts: Attenborough NR: 4 Scaup on Church Pond.
Derbys: Carsington Water: 2 Scaup, 162 Pochard, 3 Pintail, 3 Gadwall, Curlew, Kingfisher, 2 Skylarks, 6 Goldcrests, c100 Redwing, 3 Yellow-legged Gulls.
Derbys: Kedleston Park: Little Grebe, 221 Canada Geese, 85 Greylag Geese, 69 Coots, 21 Mandarin, 19 Gadwall, 35 Tufted Duck, 158 Mallards, 38 Pied Wagtails, 2 Grey wagtails, 3 Grey Herons, c270 BH Gulls, 21 LBB Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, 10 Mute Swans, 15 Fieldfares, c20 Goldfinch, Kestrel, Buzzard, Raven.
Derbys: Beeley Moor: c50 Fieldfare.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Water Pipit circled the reservoir a couple of times then flew S 11.00-11.05, 1 Pink-footed Goose flew W and 6 more NW over Highoredish, 17 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, Pintail, c10 Teal, 2 Goosanders flew N, c200 Lapwings, Snipe. Birds passing over include 47 LBB Gulls, 3 Herring Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, c350 Redwings, c200 Fieldfares, 12 Bramblings and 2 Crossbills.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): An adult Pomarine Skua flew in at 15.55 harassing the Gulls before flying south east at 15.58. The 4th record for Belvide and the first since May 15th 2009, female Common Scoter still, 1st winter Med Gull, 5 Yellow-legged Gulls, 19 Common Gulls, Dunlin, Chiff Chaff, immature Peregrine killed a Wood Pigeon.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 3 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, Ruff, c500 Golden Plover, 9 Curlew, Common Gull, 2 Goldeneye, 5 Wigeon, Gadwall, Pochard, 21 Little Grebes, 2 Great Crested Grebes, Green Woodpecker, Redwings over.
Staffs: Berryhill: 1'705 Fieldfare over, also 435 Redwings, c80 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Bramblings, 3 Siskin, Wheatear, Stonechat, 2 Snipe, 2 Cormorants, 3 Raven.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Scaup still, also Green Woodpecker, 49 Redwings, 4 Fieldfare, Raven.
Staffs: Silverdale CP: Short-eared Owl, Jack Snipe.
Leics: Swithland Water: Great Skua this morning until 10.05, also Common Scoter.
Notts: Netherfield Lagoons: Great White Egret landed in stream by line of willow trees this morning; also drake Green-winged Teal on Slurry Lagoon again.
Notts: Hoveringham GP's: 2 Med Gulls (adult and 1st winter) roosted on sailing lake.
Notts: Attenborough NR: 4 Scaup on Church Pond.
Wednesday, 24 October 2012
Latest Sightings 24/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, 5 Cormorants, 29 Coots, 13 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 5 Shoveler, 7 Goosander, drake Pochard, 149 Canada Geese, 93 Greylag Geese, Peregrine, male Sparrowhawk, Snipe, 145 BH Gulls, Common Gull, 3 Goldcrests, 9 Starlings, 3 Blackbirds, Mistle Thrush, 130 Jackdaws.
Derbys: Willington GP's 6 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Cormorants, Grey Heron, 12 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 12 Teal, 11 Shoveler, 3 Pochard, 35 Tufted Ducks, Goldeneye on Canal Pit, Water Rail, 3 Snipe, Swallow, Cetti's Warbler, 4 Goldcrests, Treecreeper.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: c30 Fieldfares, c90 Redwings, 3 Mute Swans, 9 Teal, 3 Snipe.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup, 2 Common Gulls, 2 Lapwings and 6 Pochard.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: 30 Redwing, 35 Snipe, c70 Lapwing, 80 Shoveler.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only) Great White Egret at the west end 12:52-12:55 then flew
northeast, also female Common Scoter, 13 Goldeneye, Pintail, 2 adult Med Gulls, 21 Common Gulls, 12 Yellow-legged Gulls, 3'500 LBB Gulls, 50 Fieldfare, 4 Dunlin.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): Juvenile Black Tern today, also 9 Scaup and a 1st winter Little Gull.
Notts: Newstead and Annesley CP: Richard's Pipit flew over the Pit Top this morning and appeared to land.
Leics: Swithland Reservoir: Great Skua on north side eating a gull late afternoon.
Derbys: Willington GP's 6 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Cormorants, Grey Heron, 12 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 12 Teal, 11 Shoveler, 3 Pochard, 35 Tufted Ducks, Goldeneye on Canal Pit, Water Rail, 3 Snipe, Swallow, Cetti's Warbler, 4 Goldcrests, Treecreeper.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: c30 Fieldfares, c90 Redwings, 3 Mute Swans, 9 Teal, 3 Snipe.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup, 2 Common Gulls, 2 Lapwings and 6 Pochard.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: 30 Redwing, 35 Snipe, c70 Lapwing, 80 Shoveler.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only) Great White Egret at the west end 12:52-12:55 then flew
northeast, also female Common Scoter, 13 Goldeneye, Pintail, 2 adult Med Gulls, 21 Common Gulls, 12 Yellow-legged Gulls, 3'500 LBB Gulls, 50 Fieldfare, 4 Dunlin.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): Juvenile Black Tern today, also 9 Scaup and a 1st winter Little Gull.
Notts: Newstead and Annesley CP: Richard's Pipit flew over the Pit Top this morning and appeared to land.
Leics: Swithland Reservoir: Great Skua on north side eating a gull late afternoon.
Copper, Copped!
Copper stole rare birds' eggs.
This lowlife obviously thought he was above the very law he was supposed to uphold. It's a pity the twat will still get his pension. He must have known what was coming when he retired just 2 months after his arrest. Why isn't there something in every police officers' contract that if they breach it it any way they will lose their right to a pension. Read about it here.
This lowlife obviously thought he was above the very law he was supposed to uphold. It's a pity the twat will still get his pension. He must have known what was coming when he retired just 2 months after his arrest. Why isn't there something in every police officers' contract that if they breach it it any way they will lose their right to a pension. Read about it here.
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
Latest Sightings 23/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, 3 Cormorants, 22 Coots, 41 Teal, 6 Gadwall, 3 Shoveler, female Tufted Duck, drake Pochard, 25 Lapwings, Snipe, 400 BH Gulls, Mistle Thrush, 2 Goldcrests, 17 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Stock Doves, Grey Wagtail, c50 Goldfinch, Raven. Visible Migration: 1 Skylark, 6 'alba' Wagtails, 101 Redwing, 12 Meadow Pipits, 185 Starlings, 15 Siskin, 2 Greenfinch, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 110 Wood Pigeons.
Derbys: Middleton Moor: 4 Wigeon, 50 Teal, 5 Pochard, 13 Tufted Ducks, 2 Ringed Plover, 9 Golden Plover, 6 Snipe, Yellow-legged Gull.
Derbys: Avenue Washlands: 100 Pink-footed Geese.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 3 Mute Swans, 9 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 2 Bramblings.
Derbys: Willington GP's: 4 Common Scoter from Platform 4 this morning.
Derbys: Church Wilne Reservoir (permit only): 3 Common Scoter on Ski Pit.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Female Common Scoter still present, 12 Goldeneye, 102 Wigeon, Pintail, 353 Tufted Ducks, 40 Shoveler, Chiff Chaff, 5 Water Rail, adult Yellow-legged Gull and 7 Common Gulls.
Staffs: Wetley Moor: 50 Meadow Pipit, 10 Reed Buntings, 6 Redwing, 4 Fieldfare, 8 Jays.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, 20 Shoveler, 6 Snipe, 8 Tufted Duck, 40 Lapwing, 2 Buzzards, 2 Reed Buntings, 10 Redwing.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: Little Egret, Grey Wagtail, 30 Redwing, 4 Mistle Thrush, 2 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 19 Teal.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 3 Ruff, Redshank, 9 Curlew, 3 Dunlin, 588 Golden Plover, 538 Lapwing, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, Common Gull, 93 LBB Gulls, 20 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, Pochard, 3 Cormorants, 26 Little Grebe, 50 Pied Wagtail, Little Egret, 50 Goldfinch, 41 Redwing.
Staffs: Berry Hill: Visible Migration: 255 Wood Pigeons, 18 Meadow Pipits, 6 'alba' Wagtails, 106 Fieldfare, 83 Redwings, 72 Starlings, 36 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 15 Finch sp, 4 Siskins, 4 Lesser Redpoll.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup still.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 6 Common Scoter, 1st winter Little Gull.
Derbys: Middleton Moor: 4 Wigeon, 50 Teal, 5 Pochard, 13 Tufted Ducks, 2 Ringed Plover, 9 Golden Plover, 6 Snipe, Yellow-legged Gull.
Derbys: Avenue Washlands: 100 Pink-footed Geese.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 3 Mute Swans, 9 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 2 Bramblings.
Derbys: Willington GP's: 4 Common Scoter from Platform 4 this morning.
Derbys: Church Wilne Reservoir (permit only): 3 Common Scoter on Ski Pit.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Female Common Scoter still present, 12 Goldeneye, 102 Wigeon, Pintail, 353 Tufted Ducks, 40 Shoveler, Chiff Chaff, 5 Water Rail, adult Yellow-legged Gull and 7 Common Gulls.
Staffs: Wetley Moor: 50 Meadow Pipit, 10 Reed Buntings, 6 Redwing, 4 Fieldfare, 8 Jays.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, 20 Shoveler, 6 Snipe, 8 Tufted Duck, 40 Lapwing, 2 Buzzards, 2 Reed Buntings, 10 Redwing.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: Little Egret, Grey Wagtail, 30 Redwing, 4 Mistle Thrush, 2 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 19 Teal.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 3 Ruff, Redshank, 9 Curlew, 3 Dunlin, 588 Golden Plover, 538 Lapwing, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, Common Gull, 93 LBB Gulls, 20 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, Pochard, 3 Cormorants, 26 Little Grebe, 50 Pied Wagtail, Little Egret, 50 Goldfinch, 41 Redwing.
Staffs: Berry Hill: Visible Migration: 255 Wood Pigeons, 18 Meadow Pipits, 6 'alba' Wagtails, 106 Fieldfare, 83 Redwings, 72 Starlings, 36 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 15 Finch sp, 4 Siskins, 4 Lesser Redpoll.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup still.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 6 Common Scoter, 1st winter Little Gull.
Goodbye Ceefax
Most of us of a certain age will have spent many an hour watching the latest football scores coming through on Ceefax on the BBC. Or if we was really desperate then Oracle on ITV. These days the kids don't know they're born and most of us will at some point have seen Jeff Stelling and the boys on Sky Sports. Or if you haven't got Sky and you feel like life isn't worth living you can press the red button and get Garth Crooks.
And I even remember having to go shopping sometimes on a Saturday afternoon with my old mam god bless her and would stop outside Dixons for a quick look at Ceefax and the latest scores. The selling points of TV's these days are a bit different. They've got Freeview, Freesat, WifFi, 3D, Internet, LED, Blu-Ray etc. Back then it was 'has it got Ceefax?' 'If so, we'll 'ave it'.
Every town and city will have at least one Sports Bar so there really isn't any excuse.
It's all just so easy . And if you can't find a TV then you've got mobile phones, ipads, tablets etc. Or is the ipad a tablet? I'm not sure, I still haven't fully grasped modern technology and the latest gadgets.
I have fond memories of watching the scores come in with my Dad.....well memories anyway. I recall the anticipation waiting for the page to change hoping your team had scored. My Dad was more of a Ceefax addict that I ever was. He even used to watch Cricket. Many will say Cricket is already a tedious sport but you try watching it on bloody Ceefax. I guess we have to move with the times but I for one will miss waiting an age for the page you want to come round.
To those of you with fond memories of Ceefax then this is for you.
And I even remember having to go shopping sometimes on a Saturday afternoon with my old mam god bless her and would stop outside Dixons for a quick look at Ceefax and the latest scores. The selling points of TV's these days are a bit different. They've got Freeview, Freesat, WifFi, 3D, Internet, LED, Blu-Ray etc. Back then it was 'has it got Ceefax?' 'If so, we'll 'ave it'.
Every town and city will have at least one Sports Bar so there really isn't any excuse.
It's all just so easy . And if you can't find a TV then you've got mobile phones, ipads, tablets etc. Or is the ipad a tablet? I'm not sure, I still haven't fully grasped modern technology and the latest gadgets.
I have fond memories of watching the scores come in with my Dad.....well memories anyway. I recall the anticipation waiting for the page to change hoping your team had scored. My Dad was more of a Ceefax addict that I ever was. He even used to watch Cricket. Many will say Cricket is already a tedious sport but you try watching it on bloody Ceefax. I guess we have to move with the times but I for one will miss waiting an age for the page you want to come round.
To those of you with fond memories of Ceefax then this is for you.
Badger cull delayed
The government has announced it will delay a planned cull of badgers in England
until next summer, after widespread protests against the scheme.
Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said this was necessary to "get it right" and the "optimal time" for this year had passed.
Under the coalition's plans, several thousand badgers could be shot by trained marksmen, in an effort to reduce levels of bovine tuberculosis.
Opponents say this is unnecessary.
Ministers have given approval for a cull in two areas, Gloucestershire and west Somerset, as part of efforts to control bovine TB.
Under the plans, badgers will be shot in the open without first being trapped in cages, which is current practice.
Opponents, including the RSPCA, say that is inhumane. An e-petition to the government, created by Queen guitarist Brian May, has attracted more than 160,000 signatures.
'Convinced'
In a statement to MPs, Mr Paterson said the cull "should have begun" earlier this summer but had been delayed until after the Olympics and Paralympics, with recent bad weather also hampering preparations.
But he said that the alternative - a vaccine - was only 50% to 60% effective, adding: "I'm entirely convinced that the badger cull is the right thing to do."
The NFU is leading the preparations for the scheme, but Mr Paterson said it had written to him, asking for a delay, as this was not the best time of year to go ahead.
But he said: "It's crucial that we get this right."
The government's plan is based on the results of a nine-year trial which showed the spread of the disease could be slowed slightly if more than 70% of badgers in an area could be eradicated. But if it was less than 70%, the spread of TB could increase, it found.
Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said this was necessary to "get it right" and the "optimal time" for this year had passed.
Under the coalition's plans, several thousand badgers could be shot by trained marksmen, in an effort to reduce levels of bovine tuberculosis.
Opponents say this is unnecessary.
Ministers have given approval for a cull in two areas, Gloucestershire and west Somerset, as part of efforts to control bovine TB.
Under the plans, badgers will be shot in the open without first being trapped in cages, which is current practice.
Opponents, including the RSPCA, say that is inhumane. An e-petition to the government, created by Queen guitarist Brian May, has attracted more than 160,000 signatures.
'Convinced'
In a statement to MPs, Mr Paterson said the cull "should have begun" earlier this summer but had been delayed until after the Olympics and Paralympics, with recent bad weather also hampering preparations.
But he said that the alternative - a vaccine - was only 50% to 60% effective, adding: "I'm entirely convinced that the badger cull is the right thing to do."
The NFU is leading the preparations for the scheme, but Mr Paterson said it had written to him, asking for a delay, as this was not the best time of year to go ahead.
But he said: "It's crucial that we get this right."
The government's plan is based on the results of a nine-year trial which showed the spread of the disease could be slowed slightly if more than 70% of badgers in an area could be eradicated. But if it was less than 70%, the spread of TB could increase, it found.
Monday, 22 October 2012
Manic Monday
I must admit to being a tad jealous of those who witnessed the huge fall of migrants along the east coast today. From Suffolk up through Norfolk, Lincs and into Yorks some of the figures were mind blowing. Spurn for example is a well known migration hot spot but even the regulars there could not have predicted what was witnessed today. This is Spurn today. I think you'll agree that those figures are quite phenomenal.
| Greylag Goose |  | 3 | | - | | alba wagtail sp. | | 6 | | - | | ||||||||
| Lapwing * | | 34 | | - | | Fieldfare | | 7025 | | - | | ||||||||
| Snipe * | | 12 | | - | | Redwing | | 13130 | | - | | ||||||||
| Black-tailed Godwit | | 2 | | - | | Brambling | | 2000 | | - | | ||||||||
| Skylark | | 25 | | - | | Goldfinch | | 5 | | - | | ||||||||
| Richard's Pipit | | 1 | | - | | Siskin | | 3 | | - | | ||||||||
| Grey Wagtail | | 2 | | - | | Hawfinch | | 2 | | - | | ||||||||
Totals: 22250 individuals, 14 species, 11:10 hours Present: Wigeon 7, Water Rail 1, Moorhen 3, Jack Snipe 3, Snipe 8*, Woodcock 20, Greenshank 2, Swallow 6, Tree Pipit 1, Meadow Pipit 41, Rock Pipit 9, Grey Wagtail 1, Robin 420, Black Redstart 20, Redstart 1, Whinchat 1, Stonechat 5, Wheatear 2, Ring Ouzel 57, Blackbird 1220, Fieldfare 2320, Song Thrush 835, Redwing 7970, Mistle Thrush 10, Reed Warbler 1, Blackcap 15, Yellow-browed Warbler 1, Chiffchaff 35, tristis Chiffchaff 1, Willow Warbler 4, Goldcrest 800, Pied Flycatcher 2, Chaffinch 26, Brambling 675, Lesser Redpoll 8, Lapland Bunting 1, Snow Bunting 1, Yellowhammer 1, Reed Bunting 8 | |||||||||||||||||||
Latest Sightings 22/10/2012
Derbys: Carsington Water: 2 Grey Herons, 8 Little Grebes, 45 Great Crested Grebes, 25 Cormorants, 28 Mute Swans, female Pintail, 95 Wigeon, 9 Gadwall, 174 Teal, 85 Pochard, 4 Scaup, Yellow-legged Gull, 2 Herring Gulls, 29 Common Gulls.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 3 Mute Swans, 7 Wigeon, 3 Snipe, 2 Herring Gulls, 3+ Brambling around the West Bank.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Fem/imm Common Scoter, Pintail, 10 Goldeneye, 2 late Swallows through, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 12 Redwing and several Goldcrests.
Staffs: Tittesworth: 6 Whooper Swans present until 09.30.
Staffs: Berryhill: Female Ring Ouzel still in paddocks c250m south of the viewpoint.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 7 juvenile Black Terns over the causeway, also 3 immature Scaup and a 1st winter Little Gull.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 3 Mute Swans, 7 Wigeon, 3 Snipe, 2 Herring Gulls, 3+ Brambling around the West Bank.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Fem/imm Common Scoter, Pintail, 10 Goldeneye, 2 late Swallows through, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 12 Redwing and several Goldcrests.
Staffs: Tittesworth: 6 Whooper Swans present until 09.30.
Staffs: Berryhill: Female Ring Ouzel still in paddocks c250m south of the viewpoint.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 7 juvenile Black Terns over the causeway, also 3 immature Scaup and a 1st winter Little Gull.
Staffs: Westport Lake: 1st winter drake Scaup.
Sunday, 21 October 2012
Latest Sightings 21/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: Fem/imm Marsh Harrier present this evening, also 2 Shoveler, c40 Teal, 15 Magpies.
Derbys: Carsington Water: No sign of the Grey Phalarope today. The drake Scaup still at the Wildlife Centre, 41 Pochards, 4 Gadwall, 112 Lapwings, 26 Cormorants, 22 Mute Swans, 2 Grey Herons, also female Pintail, 3 Shoveler, Kingfisher, c20 Meadow Pipits, Grey Wagtail, Yellow-legged Gull.
Derbys: Long Eaton GP's: 2 Brambling.
Derbys: Trent Meadows: Cetti's Warbler, Stonechat.
Derbys: Shillito Wood: 11 Yellowhammers.
Derbys: Kedleston Park: 2 Whooper Swans.
Derbys: Big Moor: Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Wheatear, Ring Ouzel, 10 Fieldfare, 5 Reed Buntings.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: Little Egret, Pintail, Yellow-legged Gull, Chiff Chaff, Jay, Raven.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 2 Wigeon, Redshank, 2 Grey Herons, 25 Cormorants, 2 Kestrels, 2 Brambling around the West Bank car park and 2 over Highoredish, also 1 Crossbill heard.
Derbys: Beeley Moor: Great Grey Shrike at Wragg's Quarry, also 4 Stonechats nearby.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Fem/imm Common Scoter, Pintail, 53 Wigeon, 36 Shoveler, 1st winter Med Gull, 71 Snipe.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Rock Pipit present from 07.40-08.00, Merlin through.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): Red Kite NW at 12.40, also Little Gull and 3 Scaup.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: Water Pipit by the pollarded trees on the path at 13.15.
Leics: Bardon Hill: 2 Ring Ouzels by quarry on slope facing summit, also a Short-eared Owl.
Derbys: Carsington Water: No sign of the Grey Phalarope today. The drake Scaup still at the Wildlife Centre, 41 Pochards, 4 Gadwall, 112 Lapwings, 26 Cormorants, 22 Mute Swans, 2 Grey Herons, also female Pintail, 3 Shoveler, Kingfisher, c20 Meadow Pipits, Grey Wagtail, Yellow-legged Gull.
Derbys: Long Eaton GP's: 2 Brambling.
Derbys: Trent Meadows: Cetti's Warbler, Stonechat.
Derbys: Shillito Wood: 11 Yellowhammers.
Derbys: Kedleston Park: 2 Whooper Swans.
Derbys: Big Moor: Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Wheatear, Ring Ouzel, 10 Fieldfare, 5 Reed Buntings.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: Little Egret, Pintail, Yellow-legged Gull, Chiff Chaff, Jay, Raven.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 2 Wigeon, Redshank, 2 Grey Herons, 25 Cormorants, 2 Kestrels, 2 Brambling around the West Bank car park and 2 over Highoredish, also 1 Crossbill heard.
Derbys: Beeley Moor: Great Grey Shrike at Wragg's Quarry, also 4 Stonechats nearby.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Fem/imm Common Scoter, Pintail, 53 Wigeon, 36 Shoveler, 1st winter Med Gull, 71 Snipe.
Staffs: Westport Lake: Rock Pipit present from 07.40-08.00, Merlin through.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): Red Kite NW at 12.40, also Little Gull and 3 Scaup.
Staffs: Doxey Marshes: Water Pipit by the pollarded trees on the path at 13.15.
Leics: Bardon Hill: 2 Ring Ouzels by quarry on slope facing summit, also a Short-eared Owl.
Saturday, 20 October 2012
Counting Pigeons
Much to the dismay of Chris who still takes the piss out of the fact that I actually count Pigeons, today I did precisely that......count Pigeons. Not just Pigeons though! When it comes to vis migging this year cant compete with the dizzy heights of last Autumn and although today did start off quite promising it didn't really turn out as I had hoped.
I was greeted with thick fog when I arrived down Wyver at 08.00 and despite this almost immediately I had 10 Meadow Pipits go through. I thought that this was going to be the start of a real good vis migging session, but alas it wasn't....apart from the Pigeons.
I was only getting a few small flocks of Pigeons go through whilst it was foggy but as soon as it lifted they started piling through. I'm guessing that the foggy conditions had grounded them and when it lifted it gave them the green light.
The funny thing though is that the majority went through in about a 20 minute period and then it all dried up again. At first I had a flock of c250, then other smaller flocks with birds eventually totaling 781. Only Pigeons but not a bad haul. Despite getting those 2 Meadow Pipits through at the very start I only got another 2 over the next few hours. I did have 22 Skylarks through including a flock of 15 which is my best count of the Autumn so far.
I was greeted with thick fog when I arrived down Wyver at 08.00 and despite this almost immediately I had 10 Meadow Pipits go through. I thought that this was going to be the start of a real good vis migging session, but alas it wasn't....apart from the Pigeons.
I was only getting a few small flocks of Pigeons go through whilst it was foggy but as soon as it lifted they started piling through. I'm guessing that the foggy conditions had grounded them and when it lifted it gave them the green light.
The funny thing though is that the majority went through in about a 20 minute period and then it all dried up again. At first I had a flock of c250, then other smaller flocks with birds eventually totaling 781. Only Pigeons but not a bad haul. Despite getting those 2 Meadow Pipits through at the very start I only got another 2 over the next few hours. I did have 22 Skylarks through including a flock of 15 which is my best count of the Autumn so far.
Latest Sightings 20/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, 5 Cormorants, Grey Heron, 28 Teal, 5 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 2 Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, 159 BH Gulls, 5 LBB Gulls, 2 Little Owls, 7 Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, 4 Blackbirds, Green Woodpecker, G.S.Woodpecker, Grey Wagtail, 2 Goldcrests, 2 Jays, 10 Long-tailed Tits, Reed Bunting. Visible Migration: 22 Skylarks, 12 Meadow Pipits, 10 Goldfinch, 7 Chaffinch, 8 Greenfinch, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 25 Redwings, 15 'alba' Wagtails, 2 Siskins, 6 Starlings, 781 Wood Pigeons.
Derbys: Carsington Water: Grey Phalarope still present from Sheepwash Hide. The bird sounds like it's still quite mobile still commuting between both Sheepwash and Lane End.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: House Martin flew south, 3 Bramblings over the west bank car park and then later coming to feeders, 80 Lapwings, 8 Herring Gulls through, 2 Kingfishers, 2 Ravens, Crossbill heard.
Derbys: Poolsbrook CP: Adult and 2nd winter Caspian Gull on the lake late morning.
Derbys: Glossop: Ring Ouzel at Monks Road this morning.
Derbys: Black Bank: 514 Wood Pigeon, 5 Meadow Pipits, 9 'alba' Wagtails, Fieldfare, Redwing, 29 Starlings, 8 Chaffinch, 3 Linnets, 6 Lesser Redpoll.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Fem/imm Common Scoter still, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 1st winter Med Gull, 50 Snipe. Vis Migging: 127 Meadow Pipits, 22 Skylarks, 7 Redwing, Song Thrush, 10 Pied Wagtails, 12 Siskins, Redpoll, 12 Linnets, 19 Chaffinch, 7 Greenfinch, 4 Goldfinch, 188 Wood Pigeons, 4 Starlings.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 2 Ruff, 2 Green Sandpipers, Dunlin, Curlew, Little Egret, 520 Golden Plover, 400 Lapwings, Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Jay, Stock Dove, Grey Wagtail, Redwing, c200 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 4 Pochard, 5 Wigeon, 32 Little Grebe, 2 Buzzards, 2 Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, 80 Linnets.
Staffs: Uttoxeter Quarry: Ruddy Shelduck,, Green Sandpiper, 14 Snipe, 3 Goosander, Goldeneye, 16 Teal, 15 Wigeon, Cape Shelduck, 26 Barnacle Geese.
Derbys: Carsington Water: Grey Phalarope still present from Sheepwash Hide. The bird sounds like it's still quite mobile still commuting between both Sheepwash and Lane End.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: House Martin flew south, 3 Bramblings over the west bank car park and then later coming to feeders, 80 Lapwings, 8 Herring Gulls through, 2 Kingfishers, 2 Ravens, Crossbill heard.
Derbys: Poolsbrook CP: Adult and 2nd winter Caspian Gull on the lake late morning.
Derbys: Glossop: Ring Ouzel at Monks Road this morning.
Derbys: Black Bank: 514 Wood Pigeon, 5 Meadow Pipits, 9 'alba' Wagtails, Fieldfare, Redwing, 29 Starlings, 8 Chaffinch, 3 Linnets, 6 Lesser Redpoll.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Fem/imm Common Scoter still, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 1st winter Med Gull, 50 Snipe. Vis Migging: 127 Meadow Pipits, 22 Skylarks, 7 Redwing, Song Thrush, 10 Pied Wagtails, 12 Siskins, Redpoll, 12 Linnets, 19 Chaffinch, 7 Greenfinch, 4 Goldfinch, 188 Wood Pigeons, 4 Starlings.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 2 Ruff, 2 Green Sandpipers, Dunlin, Curlew, Little Egret, 520 Golden Plover, 400 Lapwings, Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Jay, Stock Dove, Grey Wagtail, Redwing, c200 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 4 Pochard, 5 Wigeon, 32 Little Grebe, 2 Buzzards, 2 Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, 80 Linnets.
Staffs: Uttoxeter Quarry: Ruddy Shelduck,, Green Sandpiper, 14 Snipe, 3 Goosander, Goldeneye, 16 Teal, 15 Wigeon, Cape Shelduck, 26 Barnacle Geese.
Friday, 19 October 2012
Discuss Fuscus
It looks like the probable Fuscus that's been at Carsington for the past week or so is in fact just an intermedius.
The complete moult has progressed far too much, with P1-3 new, a gap showing there is active moult and only a few retained outer primaries. This is more in line with intermedius. Jonsson in BW decsribed the 'safe zone' as P1, at most P2 replaced and moult then suspended prior to migration. So, good but not good enough! (The Jonsson reference is Birding World Sept 1998.) Incidentally the only identifiable age class for ‘fuscus’ is 2nd calendar year, primarily based on moult.
No, I don't know what it all means either.
This is the bird in question
Latest Sightings 19/10/2012
Derbys: Carsington Water: The 1st winter Grey Phalarope still present mostly from Sheepwash Hide, though mobile and often distant. Also 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, 10 Goosanders, drake Scaup, female Pintail, Shoveler, 32 Cormorants, Grey Heron, Rock Pipit on Dam Wall, Yellow-legged Gull, c20 Meadow Pipits, Kingfisher, 50+ Pied Wagtails, c40 Lesser Redpoll, Brambling, 2 Raven.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 3 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 2 Herring Gulls, Kingfisher. Migrants passing over Highoredish include 2 Crossbills, 131 Meadow Pipits, 144 Redwings, 34 Siskins, 25 Redpolls.
Leics: Rutland Water: Azorean Yellow-legged Gull still on Lagoon IV, at Egleton NR until dusk, also 7 Yellow-legged Gulls and an adult Mediterranean Gull.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): A male Stonechat was below the dam with 8 Yellowhammers, fem/imm Common Scoter, 2 Pintail, 50 Wigeon, 28 Shoveler, 1st winter Med Gull, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, 6 Siskins, Lesser Redpoll, 50 Redwings.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 7 Ruff, Green Sandpiper, Redshank, Dunlin, 9 Curlew, 537 Golden Plover, 394 Lapwing, 2 Water Rails, GBB Gull, Common Gull, 2 Green Woodpeckers, Little Egret, 3 Shoveler, 8 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 3 Cormorants, 5 Jays, 50 Meadow Pipits, 11 Mute Swans, 26 Little Grebe, 3 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Buzzards.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: 3 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 2 Herring Gulls, Kingfisher. Migrants passing over Highoredish include 2 Crossbills, 131 Meadow Pipits, 144 Redwings, 34 Siskins, 25 Redpolls.
Leics: Rutland Water: Azorean Yellow-legged Gull still on Lagoon IV, at Egleton NR until dusk, also 7 Yellow-legged Gulls and an adult Mediterranean Gull.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): A male Stonechat was below the dam with 8 Yellowhammers, fem/imm Common Scoter, 2 Pintail, 50 Wigeon, 28 Shoveler, 1st winter Med Gull, 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, 6 Siskins, Lesser Redpoll, 50 Redwings.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 7 Ruff, Green Sandpiper, Redshank, Dunlin, 9 Curlew, 537 Golden Plover, 394 Lapwing, 2 Water Rails, GBB Gull, Common Gull, 2 Green Woodpeckers, Little Egret, 3 Shoveler, 8 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 3 Cormorants, 5 Jays, 50 Meadow Pipits, 11 Mute Swans, 26 Little Grebe, 3 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Buzzards.
Thursday, 18 October 2012
Latest Sightings 18/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: Rock Pipit over, this is only the second record for Wyver. The first being on 2/11/74. 2 Mute Swans, 2 Cormorants, Grey Heron, 52 Greylag Geese, 22 Coots, 12 Moorhens, 5 Pheasants, 13 Wigeon, 8 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 21 Lapwing, 3 Snipe, 2 Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, Peregrine, Little Owl, Grey Wagtail, 6 Mistle Thrush, 2 Stock Doves, Green Woodpecker, G.S.Woodpecker, 16 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Reed Buntings, 82 Bh Gulls, 15 LBB Gulls, 12 Meadow Pipits, 19 Skylarks, 6 Chaffinch, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Greenfinch, 3 Siskins, 24 Redwings, Pied Wagtail, 51 Wood Pigeon.
Derbys: Carsington Water: The Grey Phalarope still present mainly in Brown Ale Bay, the area in front of Paul Stanley Hide. Also the possible adult Baltic Gull off the dam this evening.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Rock Pipit, Brambling, Pintail, 4 Mandarin.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Female/imm Common Scoter still, 2 Pintail, 50 Wigeon, 80 Teal, 3 Water Rails, 6 Redwings.
Staffs: Berryhill: Ring Ouzel still in the paddocks c200 metres south from the viewpoint.
Staffs: Burntwood: Male Ring Ouzel on Cinder Road.
Leics: Watermead CP: Adult Caspian Gull on the island at Watermead CP South briefly before flying towards towards Leicester at mid-day.
Leics: Rutland Water: Adult Azorean Yellow-legged Gull still on Lagoon IV from the Dunlin Hide this evening, also a Mediterranean Gull and 10+ Yellow-legged Gulls.
Derbys: Carsington Water: The Grey Phalarope still present mainly in Brown Ale Bay, the area in front of Paul Stanley Hide. Also the possible adult Baltic Gull off the dam this evening.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Rock Pipit, Brambling, Pintail, 4 Mandarin.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Female/imm Common Scoter still, 2 Pintail, 50 Wigeon, 80 Teal, 3 Water Rails, 6 Redwings.
Staffs: Berryhill: Ring Ouzel still in the paddocks c200 metres south from the viewpoint.
Staffs: Burntwood: Male Ring Ouzel on Cinder Road.
Leics: Watermead CP: Adult Caspian Gull on the island at Watermead CP South briefly before flying towards towards Leicester at mid-day.
Leics: Rutland Water: Adult Azorean Yellow-legged Gull still on Lagoon IV from the Dunlin Hide this evening, also a Mediterranean Gull and 10+ Yellow-legged Gulls.
Purple patch continues
Derbyshire isn't exactly known as being a mecca for birding, but this, even by Derbyshire's standards has been a very average year. This autumn has been one of the worst I can remember for return passage. Hardly a single notable Wader has passed through the county throughout August and September.
However, amidst all the doom and gloom I personally have had a very good month. There is always an element of luck when It comes to birding and being in the right place at the right time certainly helps. Whether by luck or by judgement I certainly have been in the right place at the right time on more than one occasion.
I guess by putting yourself out there you are always going to increase your chances of seeing something half decent. Like my now deceased Gran-dad used to say to me. 'If you want to win the raffle you have to buy a ticket'.
It all started back in late September when I was fortunate to see the Great White Egret at Carsington. Just getting my gear out of the car and looked up to see it flying past. I saw it for about 3 seconds and it wasn't seen again. If that's not being in the right place at the right time then I don't know what it is.
Then 5 days later I was standing on Stones Island when the 4 adult Arctic Skuas flew past. A trip to Norfolk only whetted my appetite for more.
Post Norfolk I had a site tick at Wyver when early one morning I had 2 Woodcocks. A week on and again a bit of stuff at Carsi.....Grey Plover, 11 Common Scoter and 4 Scaup.
Then yesterday the Grey Phalarope at Carsington which is still there today. Another site tick today at Wyver when during the vis mig I had a Rock Pipit over. I'm surprised I've not had one before to be honest although with there only being one previous record way back in 1974 then maybe I shouldn't be surprised.
And If you was to count some good vis migging days at Wyver, Rock Pip at Carsi then this Autumn hasn't been that bad after all.
However, amidst all the doom and gloom I personally have had a very good month. There is always an element of luck when It comes to birding and being in the right place at the right time certainly helps. Whether by luck or by judgement I certainly have been in the right place at the right time on more than one occasion.
I guess by putting yourself out there you are always going to increase your chances of seeing something half decent. Like my now deceased Gran-dad used to say to me. 'If you want to win the raffle you have to buy a ticket'.
It all started back in late September when I was fortunate to see the Great White Egret at Carsington. Just getting my gear out of the car and looked up to see it flying past. I saw it for about 3 seconds and it wasn't seen again. If that's not being in the right place at the right time then I don't know what it is.
Then 5 days later I was standing on Stones Island when the 4 adult Arctic Skuas flew past. A trip to Norfolk only whetted my appetite for more.
Post Norfolk I had a site tick at Wyver when early one morning I had 2 Woodcocks. A week on and again a bit of stuff at Carsi.....Grey Plover, 11 Common Scoter and 4 Scaup.
Then yesterday the Grey Phalarope at Carsington which is still there today. Another site tick today at Wyver when during the vis mig I had a Rock Pipit over. I'm surprised I've not had one before to be honest although with there only being one previous record way back in 1974 then maybe I shouldn't be surprised.
And If you was to count some good vis migging days at Wyver, Rock Pip at Carsi then this Autumn hasn't been that bad after all.
Wednesday, 17 October 2012
From mundane to magic
You'll often hear birders mutter the words 'it only takes one bird'. Today, never a truer line has ever been spoken. With the blustery conditions we are currently experiencing there's always a good chance of something turning up and as usual for a Wednesday I arrived at Carsington, but maybe with higher expectations than normal.
I wont bore you with what I did have but needless to say it wasn't very exciting. The usual killer Yellow-legged Gull and a female Pintail being the best. Mid-afternoon, however, whilst sitting in Sheepwash Hide I was scanning through the Gulls which had started to build up pre-roost.
Apart from the odd Common Gull it was as usual Lesser Black Backed Gulls dominating. As I scanned towards Sheepwash Spit something much smaller caught my eye behind the Gulls. Bloody Hell! It's a Phalarope! As usual when I see a 'goodie' I went into panic mode. Torn between getting enough on the bird to ID it, just enjoying what was my first Phal' in Derbyshire, and last of all getting the news out.
It was quite choppy out on the water so at times I couldn't even see it but I got enough and was fairly sure It was a Grey Phal as the bill looked quite thick. A 1st winter at that due to the pale back and darker wings. I made a couple of phone calls and sent a few texts whilst keeping my eye on the bird. Eventually I lost sight of it and panicked slightly as I knew a couple of birders were on their way.
It then reappeared briefly before flying round the spit and into Brown Ale Bay. Chris and myself decided that the best option was to walk around to the new path. We passed Richard (RJL) who when told of the Phalarope decided that it was a much better option than doing the Gull roost so walked round with us and for the next 40 minutes or so we had good views. Mark (MAP) arrived and was watching it from further down the new path. The bird then flew back towards Sheepwash where again we had decent views together with John (JB) before it yet again flew around the spit and out of view. A brilliant end to a very average day. I tried to get a few photos but it was next to impossible trying to digiscope something that small, at that distance and often in choppy waters.
Luckily, Richard managed to get some video footage which I have hopefully included here. Many thanks, Richard. Also included is a photo, again courtesy of Richard.
I wont bore you with what I did have but needless to say it wasn't very exciting. The usual killer Yellow-legged Gull and a female Pintail being the best. Mid-afternoon, however, whilst sitting in Sheepwash Hide I was scanning through the Gulls which had started to build up pre-roost.
Apart from the odd Common Gull it was as usual Lesser Black Backed Gulls dominating. As I scanned towards Sheepwash Spit something much smaller caught my eye behind the Gulls. Bloody Hell! It's a Phalarope! As usual when I see a 'goodie' I went into panic mode. Torn between getting enough on the bird to ID it, just enjoying what was my first Phal' in Derbyshire, and last of all getting the news out.
It was quite choppy out on the water so at times I couldn't even see it but I got enough and was fairly sure It was a Grey Phal as the bill looked quite thick. A 1st winter at that due to the pale back and darker wings. I made a couple of phone calls and sent a few texts whilst keeping my eye on the bird. Eventually I lost sight of it and panicked slightly as I knew a couple of birders were on their way.
It then reappeared briefly before flying round the spit and into Brown Ale Bay. Chris and myself decided that the best option was to walk around to the new path. We passed Richard (RJL) who when told of the Phalarope decided that it was a much better option than doing the Gull roost so walked round with us and for the next 40 minutes or so we had good views. Mark (MAP) arrived and was watching it from further down the new path. The bird then flew back towards Sheepwash where again we had decent views together with John (JB) before it yet again flew around the spit and out of view. A brilliant end to a very average day. I tried to get a few photos but it was next to impossible trying to digiscope something that small, at that distance and often in choppy waters.
Luckily, Richard managed to get some video footage which I have hopefully included here. Many thanks, Richard. Also included is a photo, again courtesy of Richard.
Latest Sightings 17/10/2012
Derbys: Carsington Water: 1st winter Grey Phalarope commuting between Sheepwash and P.Stanley from 15.45-17.45 at least, also 65 Great Crested Grebes, 11 Little Grebes, 45 Wigeon, 155 Teal, 11 Gadwall, female Pintail, 80 Pochard, 32 Cormorants, Yellow-legged Gull, 78 Lapwings, 2 Kestrel, Kingfisher, c20 Meadow Pipits, 6 Skylarks, 8 Lesser Redpoll, 6 Siskins.
Derbys: Pintail, Brambling.
Derbys: Willington GP's: Little Egret, Water Rail, 5 Snipe, Common Gull, Cetti's Warbler.
Derbys: Locko Park: Barn Owl, Little Owl, 2 Tawny Owls, 2 Grey Wagtails.
Derbys: Baslow: Barn Owl.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Common Scoter, 6 Goldeneye.
Derbys: Pintail, Brambling.
Derbys: Willington GP's: Little Egret, Water Rail, 5 Snipe, Common Gull, Cetti's Warbler.
Derbys: Locko Park: Barn Owl, Little Owl, 2 Tawny Owls, 2 Grey Wagtails.
Derbys: Baslow: Barn Owl.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Common Scoter, 6 Goldeneye.
Tuesday, 16 October 2012
Latest Sightings 16/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, 2 Cormorants, Grey Heron, Little Grebe, 25 Coots, 19 Moorhens, 48 Teal, 3 Gadwall, 11 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, Buzzard, c35 Lapwings, 146 BH Gulls, 3 Common Gulls, c150 LBB Gulls over of which 19 landed on the main pool, Green Woodpecker, Pied Wagtail, Greenfinch.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Pintail, 6 Gadwall, 11 Teal, Grey Partridge in stubble field opposite west bank, Snipe, 2 Kingfishers.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): 2 Pintail, 6 Goldeneye.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: Barn Owl, 3 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 13 Teal.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Pintail, 6 Gadwall, 11 Teal, Grey Partridge in stubble field opposite west bank, Snipe, 2 Kingfishers.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): 2 Pintail, 6 Goldeneye.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: Barn Owl, 3 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 13 Teal.
Monday, 15 October 2012
Latest Sightings 15/10/2012
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: Rock Pipit, 5 Teal, 3 Kingfishers.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): Immature Goosander, 2 Pintail, 10 Gadwall, 32 Teal, 4 Goldeneye, 4 Little Grebe, 30 Siskin, 5 Yellowhammers.
Staffs: Branston GP's: 2 Dunlin, Ruff, Curlew, 2 Green Sandpiper, 100's of Golden Plover, Mandarin.
Staffs: Trent Washlands: 2 Little Egrets, 12 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 18 Teal, Kingfisher, Lesser Redpoll, Grey Wagtail, Fieldfare, 2 Goldcrest.
Notts: Idle Valley NR: Common Scoter on Neatholme Scrape.
Notts: Holme Pierrepont: Bearded Tit on Blotts Pits.
Staffs: Berryhill Fields: female Ring Ouzel.
Leics: Swithland Reservoir: Common Scoter at the dam.
Leics: Rutland Water: Azorean Yellow-legged Gull still on Lagoon IV from Dunlin Hide.
Sunday, 14 October 2012
Latest Sightings 14/10/2012
Derbys: Wyver Lane NR: 2 Mute Swans, 2 Grey Herons, Cormorant, 6 Chaffinches, 5 Siskins, Lesser Redpoll, several Gadwall and Wigeon, c30 Teal, Buzzard, Tawny Owl, c50 Bh Gull, 13 LBB Gull, 78 Canada Geese, 78 Greylag Geese, Song Thrush, 4 Blackbirds, 7 Magpies.
Derbys: Pride Park Sanctuary: Redwing, 30 Starling, 35 Goldfinch, escaped Harris Hawk.
Derbys: Carr Vale NR: 655 Pink-footed Geese, 14 Jay.
Derbys: Berry Clough: 4 Stonechat.
Derbys: Big Moor: Kestrel, 2 Ring Ouzels, 30 Fieldfare, 30 Redwing, 15 Mistle Thrush, 4 Reed Buntings.
Derbys: Freebirch: 40 Lapwings, 200 Starlings, 30 Yellowhammers.
Derbys: Leash Fen: 600 Pink-footed Geese east.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: 2 Shelduck, 84 Wigeon, 18 Shoveler, 2 Goosander, 3 Green Sandpipers, Tawny Owl, Kingfisher, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 20 Dunnocks, 2 Chiff Chaffs, 3 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, Nuthatch, 5 Jays, Raven.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: A Rock Pipit took off from the east bank and flew NW, c10 Teal, 2 Herring Gulls, 3 Common Gulls, c120 Lapwings, Snipe, Chiff Chaff, Blackcap.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): 2 Pintail, 24 Teal, 17 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 22 Shoveler, 39 Mallards, 8 Goldeneye, 346 Tufted Ducks, 56 Pochard, 30 Great Crested Grebes, 779 Coots, 11 Mute Swans, 78 Canada Geese, 3 Greylag Geese, 5 Grey Herons, 60 Snipe.
Staffs: Berryhill: 345 Redwing, 730 Wood Pigeon, also a Crossbill.
Staffs: Blackbank: 5070 Wood Pigeons, 418 Redwings, 268 Starlings, 12 Siskins, 6 Bramblings, 7 Fieldfare, 93 Meadow Pipits.
Staffs: Gun Hill: Jack Snipe.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 1st winter Little Gull, also 2 Rock Pipits.
Leics: Rutland Water: Adult Azorean Yellow-legged Gull on Lagoon IV this evening, also an adult Caspian Gull.
Leics: Watermead CP: A Rock Pipit flew south east, also a probable Woodlark flew south west with 6 Skylarks.
Notts: Cotgrave CP: Male Ring Ouzel on south side of pit.
Derbys: Pride Park Sanctuary: Redwing, 30 Starling, 35 Goldfinch, escaped Harris Hawk.
Derbys: Carr Vale NR: 655 Pink-footed Geese, 14 Jay.
Derbys: Berry Clough: 4 Stonechat.
Derbys: Big Moor: Kestrel, 2 Ring Ouzels, 30 Fieldfare, 30 Redwing, 15 Mistle Thrush, 4 Reed Buntings.
Derbys: Freebirch: 40 Lapwings, 200 Starlings, 30 Yellowhammers.
Derbys: Leash Fen: 600 Pink-footed Geese east.
Derbys: Drakelow NR: 2 Shelduck, 84 Wigeon, 18 Shoveler, 2 Goosander, 3 Green Sandpipers, Tawny Owl, Kingfisher, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 20 Dunnocks, 2 Chiff Chaffs, 3 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, Nuthatch, 5 Jays, Raven.
Derbys: Ogston Reservoir: A Rock Pipit took off from the east bank and flew NW, c10 Teal, 2 Herring Gulls, 3 Common Gulls, c120 Lapwings, Snipe, Chiff Chaff, Blackcap.
Staffs: Belvide Reservoir (permit only): 2 Pintail, 24 Teal, 17 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 22 Shoveler, 39 Mallards, 8 Goldeneye, 346 Tufted Ducks, 56 Pochard, 30 Great Crested Grebes, 779 Coots, 11 Mute Swans, 78 Canada Geese, 3 Greylag Geese, 5 Grey Herons, 60 Snipe.
Staffs: Berryhill: 345 Redwing, 730 Wood Pigeon, also a Crossbill.
Staffs: Blackbank: 5070 Wood Pigeons, 418 Redwings, 268 Starlings, 12 Siskins, 6 Bramblings, 7 Fieldfare, 93 Meadow Pipits.
Staffs: Gun Hill: Jack Snipe.
Staffs: Blithfield Reservoir (permit only): 1st winter Little Gull, also 2 Rock Pipits.
Leics: Rutland Water: Adult Azorean Yellow-legged Gull on Lagoon IV this evening, also an adult Caspian Gull.
Leics: Watermead CP: A Rock Pipit flew south east, also a probable Woodlark flew south west with 6 Skylarks.
Notts: Cotgrave CP: Male Ring Ouzel on south side of pit.
Saturday, 13 October 2012
Scaup photos
Apologies if you were expecting to see today's latest sightings at the top of the page but if you really want to see them then you had better get that index finger working and scroll down a little.
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