Wintersett WeBS count for April

Here are the Wintersett Area WeBs totals on April 19th 2015.
Coot 102  (70 WRes + 32 ACP),     Mute Swan 9 (5 WRes + 4 ACP) ,     Great Crested Grebe 16  ( 10 WRes + 6 ACP),     Mallard 42 ( 29 WRes + 13 ACP),    Gadwall 28 ( 16 WRes + 12 ACP),      Goldeneye 25  (2 WRes + 23 ACP),  Moorhen 17 (5 WRes + 12 ACP),     Black-necked Grebe 4 WRes,     Little Grebe 1 WRes..  Snipe 4 (1 WRes + 3 ACP).

Edderthorpe, Thursday

Highlight today was a Marsh Harrier which having been at Old Moor earlier came over Edderthorpe at 07.25 and was still present in the area two hours later. Shelduck 4, Shoveler 7, Little Egret 1, Greenshank 1, Redshank 13, Dunlin 1, Ringed Plover 3, LRP 5, Common Tern 1, Cuckoo 1, Lesser Whitethroat 1. Worbrough Res this evening;- Common Tern 3 are presumably the same 3 present here Monday, Great Crested Grebe 14.

The Edge 30th April

Wombwell Ings- Present were 2 Mute Swan, 6 Greylag, 5 Canada Geese, 1 Egyptian Goose, 2 Shelduck, 20 Tufted Duck, 15 Gadwall, 7 Mallard, 2 Wigeon, 1 Shoveler, 1 Little Egret, 1 Little Grebe, 12 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 6 Lapwing, 2 Avocet, 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Redshank, 9 BH Gull, 5 Skylark, 4 Pied Wagtail and 1 White Wagtail.
 Broomhill Flash- Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 29 Canada Geese, 13 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 1 Egyptian Goose, 12 Tufted Duck, 11 Gadwall, 4 Mallard, 1 Pochard, 2 Red Legged Partridge,  6 Little Grebe, 10 Coot , 4 Moorhen, 1 Kestrel, 12 Lapwing, 147 BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull and 1 Blackcap.
 Warbler Way- Singing males- 9 Chiffchaff, 10 Willow Warbler, 7 Blackcap, 9 Whitethroat, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Sedge Warbler, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Song Thrush and 1 Willow Tit.
Bolton Ings- On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 11 Greylag, 9 Canada Geese, 21 Tufted Duck, 5 Pochard, 5 Gadwall, 4 Mallard, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Little Grebe, 51 Coot, 1 Moorhen and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Cormorant, 1 Kestrel, 1 Buzzard, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Jay, 2 Grey Wagtail and c50 Sand Martin.

Wintersett 30.04.15

6°C with 4/8 cloud and a cool light northerly
Anglers CP:  A Whimbrel was on an island very early doors.  The drake Garganey is here for the 3rd day. 2 Dunlin flew over and left west at 08.47hrs.   Sedge Warbler 1♂ + 4♂ Wres,   Wheatear 1 ♀,  Teal 1 ♂,  Oystercatcher 6,  Shoveler 2 + 1 WRes..   The first 3 Canada Goslings have hatched.
The usual Yellow-legged Gull adult and Lesser Black-backed Gull adult were on the shallows this morning.
Wintersett Res: Common Sandpiper 1,  Lesser Whitethroat 1♂ and  Common Tern 5. There are now 3 broods of  Mallard ducklings .  A  Wheatear was reported at Cold Hiendley Res this morning. 

The Edge 29th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Best morning on the ings so far this year with 2 Mute Swan, 2 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 4 Shelduck, 13 Tufted Duck, 11 Gadwall, 10 Mallard, 7 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 1 Shoveler, 2 Red Legged Partridge, 2 Grey Heron,1 Little Egret, 2 Little Grebe, 9 Lapwing, 4 Redshank, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper, 12 BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull, 5+ Skylark, 1 female Wheatear, 4 Pied Wagtail, 3 White Wagtail, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Meadow Pipit, 1 Whinchat, 1 Meadow Pipit ( flight song display) and 2 Linnet.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 1 Mute Swan, 20 Canada Geese, 6 Greylag, 11 Tufted Duck, 7 Mallard, 6 Gadwall, 5 Little Grebe, 15 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 2 LBB Gull and 7 Sand Martin.
Warbler Way-Singing males- 11 Willow Warbler, 10 Blackcap, 9 Chiffchaff, 8 Whitethroat, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, , 1 Sedge Warble and 1 Willow Tit. Also seen 2 Buzzard and 1 GBB Gull.
Bolton Ings early PM-On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 8 Greylag, 5 Canada Geese, 20 Tufted Duck, 8 Gadwall, 7Pochard, 3 Mallard, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Little Grebe, 33 Coot, 1 Moorhen and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Cormorant, 2 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Kingfisher and 2 Grey Wagtail.

Yellow Wagtail- Wombwell Ings

Whinchat - Wombwell Ings

Wintersett 29.04.15

6°C,  with 4/8 cloud and a cool westerly this morning.
Anglers CP:  The drake Garganey was still present.  Shoveler 1♂,  Curlew 1, Snipe 2, Redshank 1 and Lesser Whitethroat 1.  Meadow Pipit 3 north.  Dunlin 3 over at 09.00hrs, left NW.
Wintersett Res: Common Tern 3,  Arctic Tern 1 + 1 ACP.   Yellow Wagtail 1 + 1 ACP.    Sedge Warbler 5♂,  Grasshopper Warbler 1♂ and Kingfisher 1.  500 Sand Martin and 80 Swallow were in the area.
Thanks to Lynz Harston for a much better shot of the drake Garganey.

Drake  Garganey                      ACP                  LH   

Oh no!   Psycho and his mate are back.     LH

Whitley area x 2

Whitley Common - (am) 1 male Ring Ouzel and 5 Wheatears. (pm) 2 Oystercatchers, 10+ Lapwings, 1 Golden Plover and 8 Wheatears.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - (pm) 16 Canada Geese, 22 Mallards, 11 Tufted Ducks, a pair Little Grebe, two pairs Great Crested Grebes, 1 Common Buzzard, 18 Coots, c100 Swallows and c100 House Martins.

Wintersett 28.04.15

6°C, sunny with scattered cloud and a cool westerly.   A few spots of rain and hail fell around midday.
Anglers CP had the goodies today.  A drake GARGANEY was around the shallows,  as was a KNOT - both firsts for the year.  Teal 1♂,  Shoveler 1♂,  Goldeneye 1♂ immature,  Common Sandpiper 4 and Green Woodpecker 1.
Wintersett Res: ARCTIC TERN 2,  Common Tern 5 and  Sand Martin 100 + 100 ACP.
Haw Park Wood:  Nuthatch 1.
Here's a couple of record shots.

                                    Knot                     ACP              ASmith

                    Drake Garganey                ACP                   ASmth

The Edge 28th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 16 Canada Geese, 9 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 3 Shelduck, 17 Tufted Duck, 16 Gadwall, 12 Mallard, 4 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 1 Teal, 1 Little Grebe, 11 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 9 Lapwing, 3 Redshank, 2 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper, 11 BH Gull, 1 LBB Gull, 5+ Skylark, 1 Meadow Pipit, 4 Pied Wagtail and 2 Linnet.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 17 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 12 Tufted Duck, 5 Gadwall, 2 Mallard, 2 Little Grebe, 16 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 8 Lapwing, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 LBB Gull, 1 Herring Gull, 1 Kestrel and 6 House Martin.
Warbler Way-Singing males- 11 Willow Warbler, 10 Blackcap, 10 Chiffchaff, 7 Whitethroat, 2 Leseer Whitethroat, 2 Sedge Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler and 1 Willow Tit. Also 1 Buzzard, 1 Bullfinch.
Bolton Ings late AM/early PM-Looked good over the eastern pool with 80+ Sand Martin, 10+ Swallow, 5 + House Martin and 5 + Swift feeding..On the open water were 1 Mute Swan, 6 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 26 Tufted Duck, 10 Pochard, 3 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 1 Shoveler, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 41 Coot, 1 Moorhen, c500 BH Gull and 1 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher ,1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Grey Wagtail.

The Edge 27th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 13 Greylag, 3 Canada Geese, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 3 Shelduck, 14 Tufted Duck, 14 Mallard, 8 Gadwall, 3 Shoveler, 3 Wigeon, 1 Teal, 1 Red Legged Partridge, 1 Little Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Little Grebe, 13 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 14 Lapwing, 3 Redshank, 2 Dunlin, 1 Avocet, 1 Common Sandpiper, 18 BH Gull, 5+ Skylark, 3 Pied Wagtail, 1 Meadow Pipit, 2 Blackcap and 1 Whitethroat.
Broomhill Flash mid/late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 15 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 2 Shelduck, 15 Tufted Duck, 10 Gadwall, 6 Mallard+ 7 ducklings, 2 Teal, 1 Pochard, 4 Little Grebe, 24 Coot, 6 Moorhen, 15 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 1 Kestrel, 1 Sparrowhawk and 3 Swift.
Warbler Way-Singing males - 12 Chiffchaff, 12 Willow Warbler, 8 Blackcap, 8 Whitethroat, 2 Lessser Whitethroat and 1 Sedge Warbler. Also 3 Bullfinch, 1 Green Woodpecker, 6 Swift and 3 Bullfinch.
Bolton Ings late AM/early PM-On the open water were 6 Mute Swan, 5 Greylag, 5 Canada Geese, 33 Tufted Duck, 9 Pochard, 6 Gadwall, 5 Mallard, 1 Shoveler, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Little Grebe, 48 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 500+ BH Gull, 1 Herring Gull and 1 Common Gull. Also present were 1 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Kestrel, 3 Kingfisher and 1 Grey Wagtail.

Winscar & Ingbirchworth area.

Flouch Inn - 2 adult Great Black-backed Gulls in a nearby field.
Winscar Reservoir - a pair of Tufted Duck, two pairs of Common Sandpiper, at least 5 Black-headed Gulls on eggs, a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull + 1 second-summer and at least two pairs of Pied Wagtail.
Harden Reservoir - a pair of Tufted Duck.
Whitley Common - 1 Kestrel, 2 Ring Ouzels,4 Wheatears, two pairs of Pied Wagtails and c10 Meadow Pipits.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 2 Canada Geese, 21 Mallards, a pair of Tufted Duck, 1 Cormorant, a pair Little Grebe, two pairs Great Crested Grebe, two pairs Moorhen, 15 Coots and 5 Common Sandpipers.
Annat Royd Lane - c30 Stock Doves with Woodpigeons.
Midhope Reservoir - 7 Greylag Geese, 5 drake Mallards and 1 Cuckoo.

Wintersett 27.04.15

5°C with 0/8 cloud and sunshine and a light south westerly.
Wintersett Res: Arctic Tern 1 for the fourth day. Common Tern 2,  Sedge Warbler 5♂  and Mallard 11 small ducklings.
Anglers CP: Common Sandpiper 3 and Sand Martin 250.
Insect:  A Bee Fly,  Bombilyus major, was on the west bank late morning.

Common  Sandpiper                    ACP   Lynz Harston

Little Don Valley

Still plenty of interest in this area. The following were seen this afternoon by Paul Meredith (Fitzy) and his 'little brother';- Common Buzzard 4, Curlew 5, Lapwing 90, Ring Ouzel 12+, Wheatear 1, Whinchat 1, Siskin 2, Green Hairstreak 3.

Carlton Marsh

2 Cuckoo were seen flying together, a Green Sandpiper was feeding on the New Scrape and 4 House Martins were seen nearby. Our resident Mute Swans haven't made a nest yet, but they are certainly enjoying themselves. The Cob was ringed at Doncaster Dome on 12th September 2011.

Wintersett 26.04.15

I'm  back from my jaunt to South Uist.  Many thanks to Gray for blogging all the excitement  last week.  I've added those birds to my extensive Missed It  list!  
A cold and sunny start, up to  9°C at midday with a light north westerly.
Anglers CP Vis Mig:  3 Black-tailed Godwits,  left east at 08.40hrs, are new for the year list. A Whimbrel left north west at 09.15hrs.
Anglers CP: Arctic Tern 1,  Common Tern 2 + 6 WRes.  There is only one immature, male Goldeneye in the area today.  Teal 2m + 1f,  Swift 45 and Common Sandpiper 1 + 1 WRes..
Wintersett Res: Grasshopper Warbler  3 m, and Sedge Warbler 5 m.
Old Royston Flash:  Little Ringed Plover 1.

Ingbirchworth

Ingbirchworth Reservoir - additionally today - 1 Ringed Plover and 1+ White Wagtail.

       White Wagtail                    Dave Pennington

Whitley - Ingbirchworth

Whitley Common - 6 Wheatears.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 1 Buzzard, 5 Lapwings and 2 Common Sandpipers.

Low Moor/Midhope 26/4/15.

From 1pm to 4-30 pm. Hobby 1, Buzzard 6, Kestrel 4, Sparrowhawk 1, Raven 2, Oystercatcher 1, Nuthatch 1, Snipe 7. Wilthorpe Marsh a.m. Very steady arrival of migrants,- Lesser Whitethroat 2, Whitethroat 5, Yellow Wagtail 1, calling Willow Tit on canal at SE 335 086.

Wharncliffe area, 26th April

Wharncliffe Wood - 2 Wood Warbler singing on E edge, just W of Little Intake Farm.

Wheata Wood & Prior Royd LNR - 5 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler, 2 Common Buzzard.

Stanley Hill, Grenoside - 6 Willow Warbler, 7 Linnet, 7 Swallow

Edderthorpe flash

Much the same as Ziggy,But Cuckoo on south of flash.

Edderthorpe AM.

Update from Graham's earlier report.
Common Tern 2, Swift 1, LRP 4,Dunlin 2, Greenshank1, Common Sand 1, Redshank 10, Buzzard 1.
Symphony/Sash pond. Ringed Plover 4, Redshank 3. Pink foot with Graylags on pond.
There are 2 dead Geese on island but they don't look fresh?

Wintersett, Saturday

Following the report of 2 Night Herons flying west over Kinsley Dog Track after 9pm last night, observers were out early at Wintersett hoping... Kinsley lies just 2 1/2 miles to the east of Wintersett Res so they were flying straight in that direction and is the logical destination for them. Kinsley also lies in the BBSG recording area so these are 'Barnsley birds' anyway. All likely roosting sites were checked and there are plenty of them around the Top Res, Botany Bay, Low Lake etc. Plenty of miles were covered and although no herons were found the following birds were;- Goldeneye just 1 imm drake remains, Teal 3, Whimbrel 1 was on the Top Res for about an hour and another 2 flew south, LRP 1, Common Sandpiper 1, Dunlin 1, Common Snipe 3, Common Tern 6, Arctic Tern 1 on the CP, Water Rail 1, Swift 30, Cuckoo 2, Sand Martin 220, House Martin 50, Yellow Wagtail 4, Wheatear 1, Grasshopper Warbler 3, Reed Warbler 13, Sedge Warbler 3, Common Whitethroat 7, Lesser Whitethroat 1, Garden Warbler 3, Willow Tit 2.

Ingbirchworth update

Ingbirchworth Reservoir - in addition to my last posting - 1 Oystercatcher and 1 Dunlin per Nick Mallinson.

Dunlin at Ingbichworth Reservoir    photo Nick Mallinson

Cliff Wood, Langsett - now 2 male Redstarts singing.

Blustery Hartcliff

A couple of hour here this morning in typical blustery conditions. At least three Ring Ousels (2 males) remained in the top field. Sharing it with 'em was 8 Wheatears, including a rather bright, bronzy Greenlander. Another two Northerns nearby made a grand total of 10. Golden Plover numbers seem way down - only 5- but I'll keep checking 'em.
Cheers
Russ

Wharncliffe Chase and area, 25th April

Wharncliffe Chase - 1 male Ring Ouzel, 4 Tree Pipit, 2 Cuckoo, 3 Redstart, 13 Willow Warbler, 2 Wheatear, 4 Swallow, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Curlew, 1 Lapwing.

Wharncliffe Wood - 1 Tree Pipit singing on main path between Wheata Wood and Wharncliffe Chase, also 1 Blackcap, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff.

Wheata Wood - 3 Blackcap, 3 Willow Warbler, 1 Swallow.

Also, does anyone have any information about the new building currently being erected on the flats on the top of Wharncliffe Chase?

Whitley - Midhope

Whitley Common - 2 Oystercatchers and 7 Wheatears.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 1 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Common Sandpiper and 10+ Sand Martins.
Midhope Reservoir - 4 Greylag Geese + 6 goslings, 1 drake Teal, 4 Mallards, 4 Tufted Ducks, two pairs Little Grebe and a pair Moorhen.

Edderthorpe, Friday

Sightings through the day included;- Shelduck 4, Mallard 170, Oystercatcher 2, Redshank 22, Greenshank 1, Green Sandpiper 1, Common Sandpiper 2, Ringed Plover 5, LRP 4, Curlew 1,

Storres mill wood

Grasshopper warbler reeling in farmers fields adjacent "Kezzy bridge" at about 5pm

The Edge 24th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 15 Canada Geese, 10 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 27 Tufted Duck, 13 Teal, 9 Mallard, 9 Gadwall, 4 Shoveler, 4 Wigeon, 3 Red Legged Partridge, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Grey Heron, 16 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 9 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 9 BH Gull, 1 LBB Gull, 5+ Skylark, 4 Swallow, 1 Sand Martin, 1 male Wheatear, 2 Meadow Pipit, 2 Linnet and 4+ Reed Bunting.
Warbler Way late AM- Singing males 13 Willow Warbler, 10 Blackcap, 10 Chiffchaff, 5 Whitethroat, 2 Sedge Warbler and 1 Grasshopper Warbler.
Bolton Ings late AM/early PM-On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 11 Canada Geese, 8 Greylag, 28 Tufted Duck, 13 Pochard, 10 Mallard, 5 Gadwall, 7 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Little Grebe, 43 Coot, 350 + BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Kestrel, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Barn Owl and 3 Kingfisher.
Broomhill Flash mid AM-(per J.Seevior)

Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 20 Gadwall, 18 Tufted Duck, 8 Mallard, 5 Pochard, 2 Oystercatcher and 1 Common Sandpiper.

Meadow Pipit - Wombwell Ings

Carlton Marsh

Early morning fog lifted and another fabulous day ensued. New in today a singing Reed Warbler. Water Rail, Kingfisher and Cuckoo were all evident.

Newtown estate-Cudworth
House Martin and Swift, the former stayed, but the Swift moved on. (Dave Standish)

The Edge on St. George's Day

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Still thickish fog by the the time this pensioner got on the ings and so a visit  to the corner pond was in order and it revealed a Pink Footed Goose in the back field and 1 singing Sedge Warbler. With a return to the hide( now called 'The Little House on the Prairie') I was able to see 2 Mute Swan, 7 Greylag, 2 Canada Geese, 1 Shelduck, 21 Tufted Duck, 8 Gadwall, 7 Teal, 5 Mallard, 4 Wigeon, 4 Shoveler, 1 Little Grebe, 14 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 15 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, 2 Little Ringed Plover, 12 BH Gull, 12+ Swallow, 2 Sand Martin and 1 House Martin. Also heard were 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler , 3 Skylark and 1 drumming Greater Spotted Woodpecker.
Broomhill Flash late AM- Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 9 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 19 Tufted Duck, 15 Mallard, 13 Gadwall, 3 Pochard, 1 Shoveler, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Little Grebe, 9 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 15 Coot, 2 Moorhen and 250+ BH Gull.
Warbler Way-Certainly lived up to its name with singing males- 16 Willow Warbler, 12 Chiffchaff, 12 Balckcap, 5 Whitethroat, 1 Grasshopper Warbler,1 Garden Warbler and 1 Sedge Warbler + 1 Song Thrush.
Bolton Ings early PM-On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 14 Canada Geese, 6 Greylag, 23 Tufted Duck, 18 Pochard, 6 Mallard, 4 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 7 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Little Grebe, 43 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 350+ BH Gull and 4 LBB Gull. Also seen were 1 Cormorant, 12 Grey Heron and 1 Kingfisher.

A raptor seen over the oilseed rape field, near the bridge on Old Pontefract Road, was an Harris Hawk but ,unlike the recently seen individual, it did not have jesses.

Cliff Wood

The following were singing/holding breeding territories at Cliff Wood this morning:
Common Pheasant (1), Moorhen (1), Woodpigeon (2), Tawny Owl (2 owlets), Green Woodpecker (1), Great Spotted Woodpecker (1), Jackdaw (3), Blue Tit (8), Great Tit (5), Willow Warbler (3), Nuthatch (3), Wren (6), Blackbird (2), Mistle Thrush (1), Robin (3), Restart (1), Pied Flycatcher (3), Chaffinch(3).
A poor showing from Willow Warblers and still no Blackcaps. Time yet though I suppose.

Barn Owl Recovery

A Barn Owl ringed as a chick at Broomhill on 29th May 2014 was found dead at Parsonage Farm, Louth, Lincolnshire on 20th November 2014. A distance of 83km to the East after 175 days.

Carlton Marsh

The hide is now open again for key holders after the lock was repaired thanks to Russ Boland and BMBC Rangers.

This series of photos were sent in by Richard Laverack.

 Chiffchaff

 Whitethroat

Yellow Bunting

 

Water Rail (John D. Coldwell)

 



 

The Edge 22nd April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 3 Canada Geese, 7 Greylag, 1 Shelduck, 14 Tufted Duck, 13 Mallard, 7 Gadwall, 5 Wigeon, 4 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe, 14 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 15 Lapwing, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 12 BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull, 5+ Skylark, 1 Swallow, 2 Sedge Warbler(corner pond) and 4 Reed Bunting.
Warbler Way- Singing males 12 Chiffchaff, 11 Willow Warbler, 11 Blackcap and 4 Whitethroat.
Bolton Ings late AM/early PM-On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 10 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 28 Tufted Duck, 10 Pochard, 8 Gadwall, 2 Mallard, 2 Cormorant, 9 Great Crested Grebe, 5 Little Grebe, 49 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 400+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Lapwing and 2 Grey Wagtail.
Broomhill Flash mid/late AM-(per J.Seeviour) Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 21 Gadwall, 15 Tufted Duck, 6 Shoveler, 4 Pochard, 7 Little Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel and 3 LBB Gull.

Sedge Warbler - Wombwell Ings

Common Whitethroat - Bolton Ings

Hartcliff Ouzels

A few hours around the hill and environs this glorious morning. Highlight was at least 6 (4 males)Ring Ouzel blogging around a ploughed field just N of the rendering plant. The number's not surprising, given how many's around, but the location was -it's usually sterile and crap! The usual area had nowt! With them were a single Fieldfare and male Wheatear. Also of note: 18 Willow Warblers, 3 (2 male) Blackcaps, singing Nuthatch, Little Owl, and another Wheatear.
Cheers
Russ

Steady

Winscar Reservoir - 3 Common Sandpipers, 35+ Black-headed Gulls with at least 4 birds 'sitting', a pair Lesser Black-backed Gulls, at least three pairs Stock Dove and 1 Cuckoo.
Harden - 2 female Wheatears.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 26 Mallards, three pairs Tufted Ducks, a pair Little Grebes, two pairs Great Crested Grebe, two pairs Moorhen and 18 Coots.
Midhope Reservoir - 4 drake Mallards and 1 'whinneying' Little Grebe.

Carlton Marsh

New in on this beautiful day was a singing Lesser Whitethroat. Also this morning 13 Willow Warblers, 23 Wrens, 8 Blackcaps, 8 Chiffchaffs and Cuckoo all singing. 2 Kingfishers are still here and with any luck they will breed.

Storrs Mill - Ardsley viaduct
Sand Martin 3 (entering nest holes on the Dearne banks) Grey Wagtail and 4 Buzzards. (Chris Parkin)

Wintersett (again)

Here's a crap photo of the Red-necked Grebe and one of the Yellow-bellied Slider. A good afternoon at Wintersett.

Wintersett, Tuesday, another good grebe....

No sign of the Black-necked Grebes that have graced the Top Res for the last 3 days but a new arrival on the Country Park Lake is a cracking breeding plumaged Red-necked Grebe. It spent all day on here, diving, taking insects from the surface or simply sleeping. This is the first occurrence here for four years - a similar plumaged bird present on 17th & 18th July 2011 being the last. Two Common Terns were present and the first Lesser Whitethroat of the year was singing on the east bank of the Top Res. Looks like you picked a good week to go away Angie!

The Edge 21st April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 6 Canada Geese, 12 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 1 Shelduck, 17 Tufted Duck, 12 Mallard, 9 Teal, 8 Gadwall, 5 Wigeon, 4 Shoveler, 1 Little Egret, 2 Little Grebe, 8 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 1 Sparrowhawk, 9 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 11 BH Gull, 1 LBB Gull, 2 Swallow, 6+ Skylark and 1 Meadow Pipit.

Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 20 Canada Geese, 9 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 23 Gadwall, 13 Tufted Duck, 10 Mallard( +10 ducklings), 5 Shoveler, 3 Teal, 1m Pochard, 3 Red Legged Partridge, 1 Cormorant, 7 Little Grebe, 21 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 2 Buzzard, 15 Lapwing, 2 Snipe, 1 Redshank and 150+ BH Gull.
Warbler Way-Singing males 11 Chiffchaff, 10 Willow Warbler, 9 Blackcap and 4 Whitethroat.

Bolton Ings early PM-On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 11 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 37 Tufted Duck, 12 Mallard, 8 Gadwall, 3 Pochard, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Little Grebe, 45 Coot, 475+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 2 Grey Partridge, 2 Cormorant, 1 Kestrel, 1 Green Woodpecker,1 Lapwing, 1 Song Thrush and 1 Grey Wagtail.

Little Egret - Wombwell Ings

Little Egret - Wombwell Ings

Skylark - Wombwell Ings

Edderthorpe PM

Quick visit at lunchtime. Redshank 22, RP 2, LRP 2, Green Sand 1, BT Godwit1, Snipe 1.
The birds scattering off the flash was the result of a Sparrowhawk swooping onto a duck at the edge of the far bank.After a struggle it dragged it onto the bank where it started to pluck it .It looked like a Gadwall but did not have a great view!
Cuckoo calling north end towards symphony.

Carlton Marsh

A Curlew flew west at 11.48hrs and 2 Cuckoo were sat side by side in the Western Meadow.

2 House Martins were flying over the Birkwood estate in Cudworth.

8 species of butterfly included male Brimstone, 13 Orange-tip and 8 Speckled Wood.

(Chris Parkin/Dave Standish)

Wintersett, Monday

When the thick early morning fog finally cleared the 4 Black-necked Grebes were still present on the Top Res for their third day. A Tree Pipit was grounded in the north-east corner and a early Garden Warbler was in the Clump. The Garden Warbler is ringed and presumably a local breeding bird. A Grasshopper Warbler sang in the Clump and 4 Yellow Wagtails were seen on the Country Park.

Ingbirchworth reservoirs

Broadstone Reservoir - 12 Mallards, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Kestrel, pair Moorhen, pair Coot, 2 Oystercatchers, 130+Black-headed Gulls, 3 Willow Warblers and c10 Linnets.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 2 Canada Geese, 24 Mallards, pair Tufted Ducks, pair Goldeneye, pair Little Grebes, two pairs Great Crested Grebes, 1 Common Buzzard, two pairs Moorhen, 19 Coots, 4 Lapwings, 8 Black-headed Gulls, 1 Common Gull, 1 'yaffling' Green Woodpecker, 4 Fieldfares and 30+ Willow Warblers.
Ingbirchworth Fishing Pond - 1 female Mallard with 3 ducklings - my first this year.
Royd Moor Reservoir - 4 Mallards, pair Tufted Duck, 1 Little Grebe, 8 Moorhens, two pairs Coot, 3 Chiffchaffs, 41 Willow Warblers,1 Common Whitethroat and 1 Tree Sparrow.
Butterflies, 30+ Peacocks, 1 Small Tortoiseshell and 2 male Orangetips.
Mammals - Grey Squirrel and Weasel with prey (looked like a Bank Vole).
Midhope Reservoir - 4 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 2 drake Teal, 5 Mallards and 1 Sparrowhawk

The Edge 20th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 8 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 2 Shelduck, 17 Mallard, 23 Tufted Duck, 10 Gadwall, 8 Teal, 4 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, 4 Red Legged Partridge,1 Little Egret, 2 Little Grebe, 8 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 19 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 11 BH Gull, 1 LBB Gull, 6+ Skylark, 10+ Swallow, 5 Sand Martin, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Chiffchaff and 1 Blackcap.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 15 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 13 Gadwall, 14 Tufted Duck, 7 Mallard, 1 Pochard, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Little Grebe, 28 Coot, 5 Moorhen, 24 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Kestrel, 167 BH Gull and 1 LBB Gull.
Warbler Way- Singing males 13 Chiffchaff, 11 Willow Warbler, 10 Blackcap and 2 Whitethroat.
Bolton Ings early PM-Highlights were 1 Barn Owl and 2 Grey Partridge. On the open water were 1 Mute Swan, 14 Canada Geese, 9 Greylag, 26 Tufted Duck, 6 Gadwall, 5 Mallard, 3 Pochard, 2 Shoveler, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Little Grebe, 51 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 250+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Kestrel, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Green Woodpecker1 Grey Wagtail and 1 Bullfinch.

Edderthorpe AM

Nice morning after misty start. Redshank 16, Greenshank 1,RP 2,LRP 1, Common Sandpiper 2, Green Sandpiper1,Little Egret 1,Snipe 4. Good numbers of Chiffchaff,Blackcap and Willow Warbler+ Whitethroat 1. My first Sedge Warbler (settling pond).
Sash/Symphony.RP 4,Redshank1. There is a Saxony type duck sitting.Wonder what chicks will be like!

Wintersett Sunday

There are still 4 Black-necked Grebes present on the Top Res, the other 2 having departed to Pugneys CP. Combined totals for the Res and CP wildfowl counts;- Goldeneye 25, Tufted 150, Shelduck 1, Wigeon 2, Oystercatcher 4, Redshank 1, Common Tern 2, Swift 5, Kingfisher 1, Grasshopper Warbler 1, Reed Warbler 1, Sedge Warbler 1, Yellow Wagtail 1.

Edderthorpe, Sunday

April WeBS counts came up with the following highlights;- Shelduck 4, Mallard 122, Gadwall 103, Teal 43, Shoveler 9, Tufted 55, Goosander 1, Little Egret 1, Cormorant 3, Oystercatcher 2, Lapwing 58, Redshank 25, Greenshank 1, Ringed Plover 2, Common Snipe 5, Coot 54, Moorhen 52, Kingfisher 2, Yellow Wagtail 1.

Moorlands + 19/4/15.

Ewden, stone circle track - 1 cc Marsh Harrier, male Merlin, 4 Buzzards, 1 Kestrel, 1 Golden Plover, 2 chipping Snipe. Low Moor/ Midhope - Merlin 1, possibly a pair with the other lost to view, Buzzard 3, Kestrel 2, Sparrowhawk 1, Raven 3, Siskin 1, chipping and displaying Snipe thought to be 10. Woolley this a.m.- quiet, 1 male GS Pecker, 2 Nuthatch. No peckers at all yesterday morning.

Carlton Marsh

A singing Sedge Warbler was a new arrival today. Also present 12 Blackcaps, 10 Willow Warblers and 10 Chiffchaffs all singing and Treecreeper and 2 Buzzards. 

Wildfowl Counts included 2 Mute Swan, 13 Canada Goose, 11 Greylag Goose, 1 Water Rail, 2 Little Grebe, 1 Grey Heron, 6 Tufted Duck, 6 Gadwall, 5 Mallard, 4 Coot, 8 Moorhen, 1 Lapwing.

Little Don Valley 18th April

A fantastic Morning (Thank you Martin for the directions, Perfect!) Ring Ouzels 7 (5 Males) Wheateaer 2 (m&f) Redstart (m)Willow Warbler 2, Curlew, c 30 Meadow PIpits, 2 Pied Wagtails, 2 Siskin,Skylark,Mistle Thrush.

Wintersett, Saturday

Your usual reporter is off on her jollies yet again, so todays highlights;- Black-necked Grebe 6 breeding plumaged birds on the Top Res is a record high count for the BBSG recording area!! Showing very well in the bay around near Botany. Goldeneye 13, Wigeon 2, Common Sandpiper 4, Redshank 1, Water Rail 1, Yellow Wagtail 1 (first of the year), House Martin 8, Sedge Warbler 3, Common Whitethroat 3, Reed Warbler 1.

Pied Flycatcher

                                                                             Photo Nick Mallinson

Male Pied Flycatcher at Cliff Wood today.

Cudworth Common, Saturday morning

Counts on Ferry Moor (Sash pond) Symphony and the Common;- Canada Goose 25 with at least 5 sitting on nests, Greylag Goose 14, Mallard 64, Gadwall 12, Wigeon 2, Teal 2, Tufted Duck 9, Coot 16, Moorhen 22, Grey Heron 3, Lapwing 46, Ringed Plover 8, LRP 1, Common Snipe 1, Redshank 6, Little Grebe 4, Skylark 37 singing birds (an amazing total), Whitethroat 2, Kingfisher 2. And loads of butterflies;- Brimstone, Small Tortoishell, Peacock, Orangetip......

Edderthorpe, Saturday

A good walk around the site in glorious spring weather revealed;- Whooper Swan no sign of the bird that's been grounded on Houghton Washland for the last week (nor any obvious sign of a corpse so hopefully it's moved on) but 2 Whoopers flew north at 08.40. Shelduck 4, Little Egret 2, Oystercatcher 1, Redshank 20, LRP 2, Ringed Plover 3, Common Snipe 3, Common Buzzard 6, Sparrowhawk 4, Whitethroat 4, Blackcap 6, Willow Warbler 27.

Carlton Marsh

Today Buzzard 2, Water Rail, Cormorant 1 + 3 north, Sand Martin 1 + 3 north, House Martin, Coal Tit, Willow Tit SE3710, Whitethroat, possible Ring Ouzel. (Dick Laverack/Jim Plant)

This Phyllosc doesn't appear to be one of ours, it has an H in the number

 

Both photos sent in by Dick Laverack

Hartcliff Hill

An early call this morning produced a very showy (and vocal) male Ring Ousel, 7 Wheatears (6 males), 50+ Golden Plover and Yellowhammer, Song Thrush and Snipe on territory. The RO is bang on the book with regards the date here. The third weekend of the month always seems to produce. Even if it's just a single bird. Very nice, as always.
Cheers
Russ
http://shapesthatsometimesfly.blogspot.co.uk/

Old Royston Flash

LRP still on Old Royston Flash midday today.

Carlton Marsh

Cormorant, Grey Wagtail, Water Rail, Cuckoo, Little Owl, 4 Teal, 10 Tufted Duck.

Cudworth
A bird of prey soaring really high over Cudworth's old railway station site and Burton Grange at 15.06hrs gradually flew south towards Storrs Mill/Edderthorpe Flash. It was a long way away, but I believe it was an Osprey? So it might be worth watching for it tomorrow in case it is still in the area.

Cudworth Common
Cuckoo 1 singing at 11.00hrs

Gunthwaite - Midhope

Gunthwaite Dam - 3 Canada Geese, 2 Mallards, pair Tufted Duck, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Moorhens and 4 Coots.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 28 Mallards, 5 Tufted Ducks, 1 drake Goldeneye, a pair Little Grebe, two pairs Great Crested Grebe, 4 Moorhens, 21 Coots, 6 Swallows and 5 Willow Warblers.
Midhope Reservoir - 2 drake Teal, 3 drake Mallards, 1 drake Tufted Duck and a pair Little Grebe.

Wintersett 17.04.15

9°C with scattered cloud and a cool light north easterly.
Wintersett Res:  A COMMON TERN  was a 1st for the year.  Grasshopper Warbler 1m,  Sedge Warbler 3m,  Whitethroat 1m and Water Rail 2.
The 1st Ringing session of the year produced 15 new birds, including: Grasshopper Warbler,  Sedge Warbler and 3 Chiffchaff.  Interestingly, 2 retrapped Blackcaps and 2 male Willow Warblers had been ringed here as juveniles last year.
Anglers CP: Shoveler 1m,  Teal 2,  Wigeon 1m + 1f,  Snipe 1, Goldeneye 11 + 2 WRes, Snipe 1 and   Common Sandpiper 1
Butterfly: The first SPECKLED WOOD was on the east bank WRes..

Woolley Dyke / Wilthorpe Marsh, 17/4/15.

Woolley - pair of Lesser Peckers feeding and mating this a.m. Wilthorpe - oxbow lake, Green Sandpiper 1, LRP 2, Oystercatcher 2, 1 pair of Teal, 1 pair of Goosander on river.

Friendly pond (supposedly)

The family friendly pond next to Sash Window. I was told some men were fishing with bait, to catch the Canada Geese.After pulling the Geese out they decapitated them. WHo are they?

The Edge 17th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 4 Mute Swan, 17 Canada Geese, 9 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 2 Shelduck, 18 Mallard, 17 Tufted Duck, 8 Gadwall, 5 Wigeon, 4 Shoveler, 3 Teal, 2 Little Grebe, 10 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 11 Lapwing, 2 Snipe, 1 Redshank, 1 Buzzard, 26 BH Gull, 2 Swallow, 5 Skylark, 1 Jay, 1 Blackcap and 1 Chiffchaff.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 33 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 21 Tufted Duck, 14 Gadwall, 10 Mallard, 6 Teal,  4 Shoveler, 10 Little Grebe, 25 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 1 Kestrel, 11 Lapwing, 2 Common Sandpiper, 250+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull.
Warbler Way- Singing males13 Chiffchaff, 12 Willow Warbler, 6 Blackcap, 1 Whitethroat and 1 Grasshopper Warbler.
Bolton Ings late AM/early PM-On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 13 Canada Geese, 9 Greylag, 25 Tufted Duck, 9 Mallard, 7 Pochard, 7 Gadwall, 6 Shoveler, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Little Grebe, 42 Coot, 1 Moorhen and 400+ BH Gull. Also present were 8 Cormorant, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Green Woodpecker and 2 Grey Wagtail.

Upper Hordron Barn 16/4/15.

Only thing of note on the way up was a calling Golden Plover on barmings, assumed to be on territory. 4 hours at the barn had Merlin on territory mobbing and sometimes perched on the large rock up harden clough. Buzzard 4, Kestrel 3, Raven 2, Ring Ouzel 4, Wheatear 1. 6 Wheatears on way down.

Wintersett 16.04.15

7°C  with 8/8 cloud and flat calm,  sunny by midday.
Anglers CP:  A Siskin  flew north at 08.00hrs.   White Black-headed Gull 1 1stW,   Common Sandpiper 1,  Wheatear 1 m, Meadow Pipit 1 N,  Shelduck 1, Teal 2,  Goldeneye 13 + 4 WRes.,  Shoveler 1 m,  Wigeon 1 m + 1 f,  Cormorant 9,  Grey Partridge 1 and Greylag Goose 5.
Old Royston Flash: Little Ringed Plover 1.
Wintersett Res: Whitethroat 1 m,  Sedge Warbler 3 m,  Grasshopper 1 m,  Kingfisher 1 and Grey Heron 2. 
Other critters:  The  Yellow-bellied Slider was in the Boathouse reeds and and a Weasel was seen this afternoon. WRes..

Common Sandpiper   ACP        Lynz Harston

Carlton Marsh

Today's highlights were Cuckoo 1 singing male, Buzzard 2, Cream Crown Marsh Harrier south at 14.40hrs. (Keith Bannister)
At 15.10hrs a Harris Hawk flew over the scrape. (Rod Heeley) and a female Peregrine was hunting nearby at 16.15hrs. (Dave Smith)

Cudworth Common
Another male Cuckoo was singing at 5 Lane ends at 15.18hrs. (Keith Bannister)

The Edge 16th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 5 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 1 Pink Footed Goose, 2 Shelduck, 18 Tufted Duck, 15 Mallard, 6 Gadwall, 5 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 3 Little Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 3 Little Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 8 Coot, 5 Moorhen, 9 Lapwing, 2 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Redshank, 1 Snipe, 21 BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull, 5 Skylark, 2 Wheatear, 6 Sand Martin, 8 Swallow and 1 Blackcap.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 33 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 14 Tufted Duck, 13 Gadwall, 11 Mallard, 6 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 1 Pochard, 5 Little Grebe, 23 Coot, 6 Moorhen, 12 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel, 250+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull.
Warbler Way-Singing males 15 Willow Warbler, 10 Blackcap, 10 Chiffchaff and 1 Common Whitethroat.
Bolton Ings early PM-On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 14 Canada Geese, 7 Greylag, 36 Tufted Duck, 7 Pochard, 6 Mallard, 3 Gadwall, 7 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Little Grebe, 51 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 437 BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Grey Heron, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Kestrel and 1 Song Thrush.

Old Moor Sofa

First of all apologies for late blog, due to internet/laptop problems.

An update on the number of species recorded in the Old Moor area this year, at the end of February the total was 103.

A further 9 species were added in March as follows - Sand Martin on 8th (104), Bean Goose on 10th (105), Rock Pipit on 14th (106), Caspian Gull on 14th (107), Kittiwake on 20th (108), Avocet on 23rd (109), Wheatear on 26th (110), Siskin on 27th (111), and finally Little Ringed Plover on 30th (112).

Already in April a further 12 species have been added as follows - Swallow on 1st (113), Marsh Harrier on 4th (114), Osprey on 5th (115), Ruff on 6th (116), Whimbrel on 8th (117), Little Gull on 10th (118), Willow Warbler on 10th (119), Common Sandpiper on 11th (120), House Martin (121) and Black Tailed Godwit (122) on Monday and Reed Warbler (123) and Yellow Wagtail (124) today.

For comparison some other inland sites totals are as follows - Lound, Nottinghamshire (130), Swillington, West Yorkshire (140) and Upton Warren, Worcestershire (115).

Wintersett 15.04.15

10°C with sunny intervals and a light north westerly.
Wintersett Res:  Common Sandpiper 1,  Grasshopper Warbler 1 and Whitethroat 1m.   2  SEDGE WARBLER were firsts for the year, as were 13 very small Mallard Ducklings.  Sand Martin 150 + 150 ACP and House Martin 2.
Anglers CP:   A COMMON  SWIFT was another first for the year at 14.40hrs. Wigeon 1m + 1f,  Shelduck 1,  Shoveler 1m,  Teal 2,   and Green Woodpecker 1. Usual Yellow-legged Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull adults.

Edderthorpe & Houghton, Wednesday

A round-up from various observer reports;- The Whooper Swan and 2 Pink-footed Geese remain in the field next to Houghton Washland. Shelduck 6, Shoveler 17, Little Egret 3, Oystercatcher 2, Ringed Plover 4, LRP 1, Green Sandpiper 3, Common Sandpiper 2, Dunlin 2, Black-tailed Godwit 6, Common Snipe 2, Redshank 17. Bird of the Day was a Red Kite which flew north mid morning.

Castle Dam - Midhope Res.

Castle Dam - 1 Canada Goose, 8 Coots, 2 Oystercatchers, c60 Black-headed Gulls and 2 Swallows.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 2 Canada Geese, 10+ Mallards, 6 Tufted Ducks, 2 Little Grebes, a pair Little Grebe, 2 Moorhens, c15 Coots, 2 Oystercatchers, 4 Black-headed Gulls, 1 Common Gull, c5 Sand Martins, 120+ Swallows and c10 House Martins.
Whitley Common - 1 Golden Plover, 7 Lapwings and 8 Wheatears.
Whitley Edge - 11 Pied Wagtails, 2 White Wagtails and 7 Meadow Pipits.
Langsett Reservoir - Canada Geese and Mallards - not counted and 1 Common Sandpiper.
Midhope Reservoir - 7 Greylag Geese, a pair Teal, 3 Mallards and 2 Willow Warblers

Hordron Road 15/4

Delmont Grange ~ 12 Wheatear and 50 Fieldfare
Hordron Farm ~ 2 Wheatear and 16 Ring Ouzel (12 males)

The Edge 15th April

 A large influx of Sand Martin today, with groups of 30+ passing through all 3 sites on the Edge.
Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 2 Mute Swan, 8 Canada Geese, 7 Greylag, 4 Shelduck, 11 Mallard, 11 Tufted Duck, 6 Gadwall, 6 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 2 Red Legged Partridge, 3 Little Grebe, 7 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 11 Lapwing, 3 Redshank, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Kestrel, 1 Sparrowhawk, 29 BH Gull, 1 yaffling Green Woodpecker, 5 Skylark, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Wheatear, 30+ Sand Martin, 1 House Martin and 3 White Wagtail.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 27 Canada Geese, 6 Greylag, 14 Tufted Duck, 8 Gadwall, 4 Pochard, 3 Mallard, 2 Shoveler, 1 Teal, 2 Red Legged Partridge, 21 Coot, 5 Moorhen, 9 Lapwing, 2 Common Sandpiper,1 Kestrel, 300+ BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull, 30+ Sand Martin and  1 Swallow. Also seen early AM were 2 Pink Footed Geese and 1 Dunlin.
Warbler Way-Singing males 11 Willow Warbler, 10 Blackcap and 9 Chiffchaff.
Bolton Ings early PM-On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 14 Greylag, 8 Canada Geese, 26 Tufted Duck, 9 Mallard, 4 Gadwall, 3 Pochard, 4 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Little Grebe, 2 Cormorant, 46 Coot, 300+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Grey Heron, 3 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 2 Oystercatcher and 40+ Sand Martin.

Edderthorpe PM.

Not as productive as this morning .
Redshank 12, BT Godwit1, Dunlin 2, RP 4, LRP 1, GSandpiper 1, Little Egret 3, Shelduck 5, Goosander 1, Plenty of Swallows/ Sand Martins over water+ House Martins 2.

From the Congo to Carlton Marsh

A male Cuckoo was singing this morning regularly from 10.05hrs Along with 10 Willow Warbler, 11 Chiffchaff, 10 Robin and 3 Blackcap. Also present Water Rail, Grey Wagtail, 2 Little Owl and Weasel.

Carlton Marsh

Buzzard, Teal 3, Canada Goose 17, Greylag 4, Water Rail 2 calling, Peregrine east.

Brimstone 1, Orange-tip 2 and Speckled Wood 2.

Barnsley
A male Mink was lurking around the car garage near the bus station that used to be Hasleden's this morning. 9Dave Standish)

Martin see comment in previous blog

Willow Tit Survey

As an update, got most records onto a spreadsheet but still awaiting a few more from site recorders.
Looking good so far and exceeded what was found during the BBSG Atlas period in the Dearne wider area (NIA). Thanks to everyone who put sightings on the blog but keep them coming throughout the breeding period as they may prove positive breeding although birds will go quiet when eggs have been laid.

Cliff Wood - Midhopestones

The following were singing or holding breeding territories at Cliff Wood, Langsett today - Moorhen (1), Woodpigeon (2), Green Woodpecker (1), Great Spotted Woodpecker (1), Jay (1), Jackdaw (3), Blue Tit (5), Great Tit (2), Willow Warbler (2), Nuthatch (1), Treecreeper (2), Wren (4), Blackbird (1), Mistle Thrush (1), Robin (5), Pied Flycatcher (1), Chaffinch (4) and Siskin (1).
Mammals - probably the most interesting thing today was a Water Vole on the River Little Don.
Midhopestones - 1 immature/female Merlin harassed by Jackdaws.

The Edge 14th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Highlight were 6 male Wheatears. Also present were 2 Mute Swan, 6 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 2 Shelduck, 8 Tufted Duck, 8 Mallard, 7 Teal, 6 Gadwall, 1 Little Egret, 3 Grey Heron, 2 Little Grebe, 10 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 11 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Snipe,1 Kestrel, 1 Sparrowhawk, 23 BH Gull, 6 Skylark and 2 Chiffchaff.
Broomhill Flash late AM-Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 33 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 16 Gadwall, 12 Tufted Duck, 8 Mallard, 2 Shoveler, 2 Teal, 2 Pochard, 5 Little Grebe, 13 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 21 Lapwing, 300+ BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull and 1 Willow Warbler.
Warbler Way- Singing males included 1 Song Thrush, 12 Chiffchaff, 8 Willow Warbler and 6 Blackcap. Also one soaring Buzzard.
Bolton Ings early PM -On the open water were 1 Mute Swan, 13 Greylag, 7 Canada Geese, 44 Tufted Duck, 9 Mallard, 7 Gadwall, 6 Pochard, 1f Goldeneye, 4 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Little Grebe, 42 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 350+ BH Gull and 2 LBB Gull. Also present were 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Oystercatcher, 6 Sand Martin and 1 Swallow.

Wintersett 14.04.15

9°C with sunny spells, scattered cloud and a south westerly breeze.
Wintersett Res:  A reeling Grasshopper Warbler was a first for the year.  Herring Gull 5 over  + 2 ACP and Goldcrest 1 in Pits Wood.
Anglers CP:   2 Common Sandpiper + 1 WRes were new for the year list. Redshank 1.  A Shelduck flew south at 08.53,  Shoveler 1m + 1f,  Teal 6,  Wigeon 1m + 1f ,  Meadow Pipit 3 north and Snipe 1.   Yellow-legged Gull 1 adult and Lesser Black-backed Gull 1 adult.
Critter:  A Bee Fly was flicking eggs on the south west corner path WRes.

Edderthorpe PM

Wheatear 7. To view, walk down concrete from layby then up onto old railway to view fenced off long field at back of Symphony.
Back on Edderthorpe, Redshank 20, BT Godwit 2, Common Sandpiper 1,Little Egret 1, Shelduck 7, Goosander 1, Pinkfoot ( 2 with Graylags) . 2 Common Buzzard.

Wintersett 13.04.15

Frost at dawn soon melted. 5°C, sunny with patchy cloud and a light south westerly.
Anglers CP: Goldeneye 20 + 2 WRes,  Shoveler 2 male,  Wigeon 1 female and Teal  2.
Disposal Point:  Little Owl 1.
Wintersett Res: Buzzard 4,  Kingfisher 1. 

Low Moor / Midhope, 13/4/15.

Ring Ouzel and Fieldfare in field with water bowser + male Redstart showing regular on stone wall. Snipe displaying better in sunshine but mainly cloudy this aft. Thought to be six and one on pike lowe but probably more. Also 1 calling Nuthatch, pair of Sparrowhawks over res, 5 Buzzards.

The Edge 13th April

Birdwatching trip to Southern Iberia cancelled due to French air-traffic controllers and so back to the Edge earlier than expected.
Wombwell Ings mid AM-Highlights were 1 male Wheatear and my first Little Ringed Plover of the year. Also present were 2 Mute Swan, 4 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 2 Shelduck, 14 Tufted Duck, 11 Mallard, 8 Gadwall, 5 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 1 Pochard, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Little Grebe, 11 Coot, 5 Moorhen, 12 Lapwing, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Redshank, 11 BH Gull, 6 Skylark, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Meadow Pipit and 2 Chiffchaff.
Broomhill Flash Late AM- Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 41 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 12 Tufted Duck,9 Mallard, 9 Gadwall, 1 Pochard, 2 Red Legged Partridge, 15 Little Grebe, 15 Coot, 5 Moorhen, 1 Buzzard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 300+ BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull, 1 Swallow, 3 Sand Martin and 2 House Martin.
Warbler Way late AM- Singing males 12 Chiffchaff, 7 Blackcap and 7 Willow Warbler.
Bolton Ings early PM- On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 17 Canada Geese, 11 Greylag, 45 Tufted Duck, 8 Pochard, 7 Mallard, 4 Gadwall, 1f Goldeneye, 3 Grey Heron, 7 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Little Grebe, 53 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 300+ BH Gull and 1 LBB Gull. Also present were 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 1 Grey Wagtail and 5 Sand Martin.

Wheatear- Wommbwell Ings

Little Don Valley via Hordron Road - Langsett Res.

Delmont Grange - 2 Collared Doves and c30 Fieldfares.
Little Moor - 2 Ravens and 1 male Wheatear.
upper Little Don Valley (Far Cat Clough to Brookhouse Bridge) - 4 Buzzards, 1 Woodcock, two pairs Dippers, 10+ (8+ males) Ring Ouzel, 2 male Redstarts, 4 Wheatears, a pair Stonechat, two pairs Grey Wagtails, 1 Tree Pipit and 7 Siskins.
Langsett Reservoir - 23 Canada Geese, 6 Teal, 11 Mallards and a pair Little Grebes.
Midhope Reservoir - 14 Greylag Geese, 3 Canada Geese, 4 drake Teal, 3 Mallards and a pair Little Grebes.
Also recorded - Red Grouse, Pheasant, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Moorhen,  Lapwing, Snipe, Curlew, Stock Dove, Woodpigeon, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Goldcrest, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Swallow, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Nuthatch, Wren, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush,  Robin, Pied Wagtail, Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch.

Edderthorpe/Houghton Washland

Edderthorpe Redshank 15, Dunlin1, B.T.Godwit 2, Green Sandpiper 1, Little Egret2,Shelduck7 Buzzard3.Pair of Willow Tits in South copse.
Houghton Washland Quieter this morning. Redshank 7, Snipe 2, Little Egret1. The Whooper Swan is now on the flash. Also present are 2 Pink Foots with Graylags.
Sash/Symphony Redshank2, Ringed Plover4. Also my first Mallard chicks.

Carlton Marsh

Recent sightings have included 4 Willow Warblers and Oystercatcher on 11th, 2 Swallows and a Wheatear today. (Jim Plant)

Wintersett 12.04.15

6°C with 6/8 cloud,  some sunny intervals and a light south westerly this morning.
Anglers CP:   4 adult Little Gulls at 14.51 hrs were a highlight today. Herring Gull 2 north,  Yellow-legged Gull 1 adult.  Dunlin 1, Meadow Pipit 3 north, Wigeon 1m + 1f and Teal 6, 
Wintersett Res: Swallow 15,  Sand Martin 70,  House Martin 1,  Common Gull 1,  Willow Tit 1 south bank, 
Moorhouse Lane Pond: A  WHITETHROAT was a first for the year.  Willow Warbler 15+

Scout Dike and Ingbirchworth

A couple of hour up here this morning. Not much fun in the howling wind, though! Of note: at Ingbirchworth were c.30 Swallows, single House Martin and 3rd or 4th year Herring Gull. At Scout Dike were two Willow Warblers, single Wheatear and 15 alba wags. The latter were in promising looking field at the SW end of the res. I thought I had a couple of whites but the conditions weren't conducive to careful observation, so I plan to take a look in the week when it calms down. Also male Goldeneye and Willow Warbler at Royd Moor.
Cheers
Russ
http://shapesthatsometimesfly.blogspot.co.uk/

Wilthorpe Marsh 11/4/15.

New arrivals at the oxbow lake were 10 Swallows, 4 Sand Martins, 1 House Martin, 1 Little Ringed Plover. First Willow Warblers were 2 yesterday 10th.

Wintersett 11.04.15

Much cooler and windier today.  6°C with 8/8 and drizzly rain until mid morning then some sunny spells and a strong south westerly.
Anglers CP: Snipe 12, Water  Rail 1,  Wigeon 1m + 2f,  Teal 7, Goldeneye 18,  Swallow 5 + 10 WRes and House Martin 1.  Psycho, the usual adult Yellow-legged Gull came in alone this afternoon.

Cold Hiendley Res: Grey Partridge 2
Wintersett Res: Sand Martin 30.
Other Critters:  Mole 1 deceased, Botany road.  Yellow-bellied Slider and  Bee Fly,  Boathouse reeds WRes.

Tops - Ingbirchworth

Upper Windleden Reservoir - 26 Canada Geese, 2 Mallards, 10+ Red Grouse, 1 Oystercatcher and c5 Curlews.
Winscar Reservoir - c22 Canada Geese, c80 Mallards, c25 (2+ 'sitting') Black-headed Gulls and two pairs Pied Wagtail.
Whitley Common - 10 Lapwings and 50+ Starlings.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - c20 Mallards, 2 Tufted Ducks, 2 Little Grebes, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Moorhens, 15+ Coots, 10 Black-headed Gulls, 1 Arctic Tern, 20+ Sand Martins, 15+ Swallows and 1 House Martin.
Several hirundines moving W over Annat Royd Lane and Inbirchworth Common at about 11:30hrs were mainly Swallows as far as I could see.

Wintersett 10.04.15

10°C rising to 17°C by early afternoon.  Sunshine with a light south westerly.  Not a great deal to report.
Wintersett Res:  A male WHEATEAR on the west bank was a first for the year.  Kingfisher 1.   The Yellow-bellied Slider was showing well again
Anglers CP:  Wigeon 1 female.  A Harris Hawk with jesses flew NW over at 11.30hrs.

Meadow Pipit returns to High Bradfield

image by Gordon Turner

Edderthorpe/ Hougton Washland Am

Edderthorpe . little Egret 2, Oystercatcher 1 , G Sandpiper 3, Redshank 12, Snipe 2, Shelduck 7, Ruff 2.  Between Edderthorpe /Houghton Chiffchaff 6, Blackcap 1, and my first Willow Warbler.
Houghton Washland. Little Egret 2, Redshank 11, Snipe 12, G Sandpiper 1.
Update on Whooper Swan. This is still in the field behind Houghton Washland but now in company with Graylags and 1Pink foot. Seems unsteady on its feet when standing.

Edderthorpe 10.25 Osprey

Osprey came low over flash from South at 10.25. It picked up large fish at the North end before turning and flew back South going over Dearne towards Houghton Washland.

Wintersett - 3 to add to the year list. 09.04.15

6°C  with 4/8 cloud until mid morning, then 14°C,  clear and sunny with a light south westerly.
Anglers CP: Sand Martin 7 north,   Curlew 1 SW,  Snipe 11,  HOUSE MARTIN 1 - first for the year,  Pochard 1 m + 1f,  Shoveler 2m, 1f  +  1m, 1f Wres,  Teal 6 + 3 WRes and  Blackcap 2 + 4 WRes.  Yellow-legged Gull 1 adult and Lesser Black-backed Gull 1 - Oystercatcher (not sitting)
Botany Hill: Redwing 1.
Wintersett Res: WILLOW  WARBLER 1 + 3 ACP first of the year,     WILLOW TIT 2 NE corner + 1 WB, Kingfisher 1,  LITTLE RINGED PLOVER 1 over north at 09.50hrs - first of the year,  Water Rail 1.
Reptile:   A Yellow-bellied Slider (Terrapin),  Trachemys scripta scripta,  was basking in the sun in the boathouse reedbed.  This is the third type of  turtle seen here.  The Res also has a long time resident Red-eared Terrapin and a Chinese Soft-shell Turtle.

Yellow-bellied Slider                   Winterset Res       ASmith

Low Moor/Midhope 9/4/15.

GG Shrike perched preening for half an hour + in bush at side of obvious red bucket in field at 4pm. G Pecker 2, GS Pecker 1, Buzzard 3,Kes 1. Woolley a.m.- Tawny Owl 1 seen twice,flushed and chased through wood by a Song Thrush. GS Pecker 1 drumming, Nuthatch 2, Blackcap 2, 1 Song Thrush sat in nest viewable from road.

Ingbirchworth - Midhope

Upper Storrs, Hoylandswaine - 1 Grey Partridge.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 23 Mallards, 7 Tufted Ducks, 2 Little Grebes, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 3 Moorhens and 19 Coots.
Midhope Reservoir - 5 Greylag Geese, 5 Canada Geese, 11 Teal, 3 Mallards, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Moorhen and 2 singing Chiffchaffs.

Edderthorpe/ Houghton Washland AM

Trickle of Swallows and House Martins this morning. Redshank 9, little Egret 2, Shelduck 5.
Houghton Washland. Redshank 14, Ruff 2, LRP 1, Snipe 14, Little Egret 2.
I noticed a swan in the middle of the field behind Houghton Washland had been in the same place since Monday! A closer look revealed this to be a Whooper Swan. It does not appear to be injured as it can walk around and flap its wings. Could the powers that be have this checked out?.  A dog walker flushed the waders off the flash, these flew towards Edderthorpe where  I relocated the 2 Ruff.

Wintersett 08.04.15

Another fine and sunny day.  Up to 14°C with cirrus cloud building and a light south easterly.
Anglers CP:  Blackcap 1 male,  Redshank 1, Snipe 1,  Oystercatcher 1 sitting + 3,  Teal 6 + 5 WRes + 2 CHRes, Wigeon 4,  Shoveler 2 m + 1f  and Mute Swan 6 + 2 WRes + 2 CHRes..
Cold Hiendley Res: Grey Partridge 2.
Wintersett Res: Kingfisher 1 and Water Rail 1,   A flock of 50 Meadow Pipits were in the field near Cold Hiendley. 
Haw Park Wood:  Lesser Redpoll 1
Walton Hall and Canal:  Nuthatch 2 and  Goldcrest 2 m.

Lots of toads spawning in the area today      

Cudworth

A male Brambling was feeding on Arthur Vincent's, Stanley Street, bird table at around 07.30hrs this morning until along came a Grey Squirrel and frightened it off.

In upper Cudworth 6 male Reed Buntings are still visiting Geoff Miller's garden bird table, when you would expect them to be on breeding territories by now.

Elsecar

Elsecar Reservoir - 3 Canada Geese, 46 Mallards, 1 Teal, 5 Tufted Ducks, 7 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Moorhens, 21 Coots, 20+ Black-headed Gulls, a pair of Long-tailed Tit with nest material, 4 singing Chiffchaffs and 1 calling Nuthatch (park area).

Edderthorpe/Houghton Wash AM

Edderthorpe .Shelduck 8, Goosander 2(Female), Redshank 12, Little Egret 3, Widgeon 6, Blackcap, Buzzard 2, Green Woodpecker 4, Willow Tit 2 (South copse) Swallow 1.
Houghton Wash . Ruff 2, LRP 1, Snipe 18 , Redshank 12, Little Egret 2. 6 Chiffchaff singing between Houghton and Edderthorpe.
Symphony/Sash. Ringed Plover 4, Redshank 2. single Pochard on Sash pond.

Carlton Marsh

Today 4 pairs of Tufted Duck, 5 pairs of Teal, 11 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag Geese, Water Rail, 2 Green Woodpecker, 2 Great Spot Woodpecker, 8 Jays again, Kingfisher, 2 Buzzard and 2 Little Owl were present. 

A female Peregrine flew north over the hide at 16.08hrs. Thanks to Geoff Miller, who phoned to say it had just flown over his home in Cudworth and was heading towards the reserve.

Both Little Owls were on show again today (on private land though) photos by Richard Laverack

 Butterflies included 2 Brimstone males and 2 Speckled Wood in Cudworth Station area. (Richard Laverack)

The Edge 7th April

Wombwell Ings mid AM-Present were 1 Mute Swan, 10 Canada Geese, 11 Greylag, 2 Shelduck, 58 Wigeon, 20 Mallard, 11 Teal, 11 Tufted Duck, 10 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 1 Little Egret, 1 Cormorant, 2 Little Grebe, 8 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 14 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, 2 Avocet, 12 BH Gull, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Song Thrush, 5 Skylark, 2 Meadow Pipit and 2 Chiffchaff.
Broomhill Flash late AM- Noted were 2 Mute Swan, 26 Canada Geese, 5 Greylag, 20 Tufted Duck, 9 Pochard, 10 Mallard, 9 Gadwall, 5 Teal, 13 Little Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 14 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 2 Kestrel, 17 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 350+ BH Gull and 1 Chiffchaff.
Bolton Ings late AM/early PM-On the open water were 1 Mute Swan, 8 Greylag, 5 Canada Geese, 2 Pink Footed Geese, 23 Tufted Duck, 8 Mallard, 4 Pochard, 3 Goldeneye, 2 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 8 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Little Grebe, 43 Coot, 3 Buzzard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Oystercatcher, 250+ BH Gull, 2 LBB Gull and 1 Common Gull. Also present were 3 Green Woodpecker, 1 Kingfisher, 6 Sand Martin, 1 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail and 8 Chiffchaff.
On a jolly to Southern Portugal/Southern Spain,  so no post from me until the 17 th April. I hear a large sigh of relief.

Wintersett 07.04.15

10°C up to 15°C,  0/8 cloud, warm with a light north westerly.
Anglers CP:  An adult Whooper Swan was chased out onto the grass by one of the Mute Swans. Lynz Harston caught the action - see photos below.   Redwing 3,  Shoveler 3 + 1 WRes,  Wigeon 30,  Teal 13 + 17 WRes,  Goosander 1 1stW male and Snipe 4. 

Wintersett Res: Water Rail 2 + 2 ACP, Curlew 1 over,  Blackcap 1 male,  Willow Tit 1 male,  Redshank 1 over and  Kingfisher 1.
Wintersett Village:  Swallow 1.
Butterfly: Comma 1 CHRes.

 

Ingbirchworth & Royd Moor

Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 6 Canada Geese, 13 Mallards, 11 Tufted Ducks, a pair Goldeneyes 2 'whinnying' Little Grebes, 3 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Moorhens, 12 Coots, 2 Black-headed Gulls and 10+ Common Gulls (most 2nd cy).
Royd Moor Reservoir - 1 Greylag Goose, 6 Mallards, 11 Tufted Ducks, 1 drake Greater Scaup x Tufted Duck, 1 'whinneying' Little Grebe, 4 Moorhens, 4 Coots, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Chiffchaffs, 15+ Meadow Pipits, 2 singing Yellowhammers and 4 Reed Buntings.
Butterflies
25+ Peacocks on young nettles and 2 Small Tortoiseshells.

Low Moor 6/4/15.

Couple of hours this aft was very steady. Best bird was a Merlin round the back of midhope res towards langsett, Sparrowhawk 1, Kestrel 2, Buzzard 4, Swallow 3. Brief visit to woolley was very quiet- Green Woodpecker yaffling so all 3 peckers possible. Willow Tit 1 at side of A61 SE335 132.

Underbank - Langsett

Underbank Reservoir - a pair Great Crested Grebes, two pairs Coot and 1 singing Willow Warbler.
Most of the morning was spent at Cliff Wood, Langsett cleaning out/repairing/erecting new nest boxes. No boxes occupied, as yet, but plenty of interest from the good number of Blue Tits present, including a pair inspecting a newly erected box within a minute of  it going up. Two pairs Nuthatch and at least 1 'drumming' Great Spotted Woodpecker were the highlights.
Langsett Reservoir - 1 drake Wigeon (CRD), 12 Teal (CRD), 1 Great Crested Grebe (CRD) and 1 Oystercatcher.
Midhope Reservoir - 10 Canada Geese, 11 Teal, 14 Mallards, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Common Buzzard and 1 singing Chiffchaff.

Wintersett 06.04.15

6°C, mild, clear and flat calm start.  15°C, sunny and hot by midday.   Car Park packed and Haw Park Lane blocked with cars parked either side.  Took 30 minutes to travel 300 metres!
Anglers CP Vis Mig: 06.15 - 11.00hrs  A steady flow of Meadow Pipits broke the spring record with 461 going north.  A Redshank flew in at 08.26hrs and a further 2 in at 08.45hrs.  Buzzard 1 N 09.10,  Fieldfare 24 NW,  Wigeon 8 E from WRes, 
Anglers CP: Teal 8 + 6 WRes,  Shoveler 3,   Gadwall 24 + 6 WRes and Cormorant 6.
Wintersett Res: Kingfisher 1 and the first Brimstone butterfly of the year.

Carlton Marsh

Phew its getting hot 18c and rising. New in this morning a singing Blackcap and there are now 18 singing Chiffchaffs. 5 Fieldfares flew north along with a steady trickle of Meadow Pipits, 20 were counted heading north. A Redshank went the same way after a brief stop. A 'band' of 8 Jays flew across the Western Meadow, an unusual number for this time of year. Grey Wagtail, Kingfisher (2) Water Rail, Buzzard and 2 Little owls were also present along with 5 singing Song Thrushes. Where have all the Swallows and Martins gone?

My thanks to Richard Laverack for these fine photos of Song Thrush, Great Spot Woodpecker, Jay and ringed Chiffchaff

This afternoon
Butterflies included Brimstone 7 males 1female, Peacock 107, Small Tortoiseshell 58, Comma 15 & Small White 2. (Chris Parkin)

Smithies
Ray Dye had a very early Holly Blue this afternoon in his garden!