The final number of species seen in the Old Moor Area in 2015 was 167.
At the end of October the total was 164 and a further 3 species were added up to New Years Eve as follows:- Red Crested Pochard on 24th November (165), Waxwing on 11th December (166) and Hen Harrier on 30th December (167).
A couple of notable absentees for the year were Little Stint and probably for the first time ever Knot! There were no Sandwich or Little Terns seen but overall 167 was a decent total.
The cumulative total for each month was a follows:-
Jan - 98, Feb - 103, Mar - 112, Apr - 138, May - 144, Jun - 149, Jul - 155, Aug - 158, Sep - 160, Oct - 164, Nov - 165, Dec - 167.
For comparison, other inland sites totals were as follows:-
Lound, Nottinghamshire 170,
Swillington Ings, West Yorkshire 176,
Upton Warren, Worcestershire 146,
Hatfield Moors, South Yorkshire 170,
Potteric Carr, South Yorkshire 161.
Sunday, 31 January 2016
Dearne Valley Weekender
Old Moor Saturday January 30th
Started early yesterday morning and I was in the Wader Scrape at 07.45, as the days are getting longer now I was too late for the Goosanders and Cormorants and they had all left. Fortunately Dave Waddington was earlier than me and counted 42 Goosanders and 55 Cormorants leaving the roost. However I did catch the Little Egrets leaving and counted 7 birds. There were 3 Goldeneye on the Mere with another 3 on the Main Marsh. A text from Dave alerted me that he had seen 2 Bearded Tits from the Reedbed Screen, therefore I made my way round there but despite spending 90 minutes looking I drew a blank. Compensation was a Water Rail swimming across the channel in front of the screen and a Peregrine over. 2 Buzzards were up over Bolton, 2 Green Sandpipers flew over the Mere and there were 240 Gadwall on the Mere/Field Pools. Later on I returned for the roost, the weather was mixed to say the least but the birds were good, I counted 64 Cormorants and 7 Little Egrets coming in. 43 Shoveler were busily feeding on the Main Marsh and a Barn Owl was hunting
Adwick Washland Sunday January 31st
I arrived at Adwick at 10.30 this morning, the weather was poor with drizzle and 4c. Nothing unusual seen today but I did record the following:- Little Egret 2, Shelduck 3, Wigeon 56, Teal 63, Gadwall 39, Shoveler 6, Grey Partridge 7, Lapwing 45.
Wombwell Ings Sunday January 31st
Following lunch in the Old Moor Cafe I had a walk onto Wombwell Ings for the first time this year, the vegetation has been cut and the Ings are looking good for the spring. 2 Little Egrets were feeding as were 171 Wigeon, 108 Lapwing and 125 Golden Plover were resting. A Peregrine flew through and put everything up, a Grey Wagtail was feeding on the River Dearne and Jeff spotted a Water Rail in the Bulling Dyke opposite the Old Moor Tavern, I was too slow and missed it.
Old Moor Sunday January 31st
Onto Old Moor for the roost and with Jeff in the Wader Scrape hide and myself in the Wath Ings hide we had everything covered. 62 Cormorants came in and 9 Little Egrets were counted, a great total for January and heres hoping for another record breaking year. Jeff counted 46 Goosanders on the Wader Scrape, a drake Pintail was on the Main Marsh and there were 9 Goldeneye in total. The pair of Bearded Tits were again seen from the Reedbed Screen this morning.
Started early yesterday morning and I was in the Wader Scrape at 07.45, as the days are getting longer now I was too late for the Goosanders and Cormorants and they had all left. Fortunately Dave Waddington was earlier than me and counted 42 Goosanders and 55 Cormorants leaving the roost. However I did catch the Little Egrets leaving and counted 7 birds. There were 3 Goldeneye on the Mere with another 3 on the Main Marsh. A text from Dave alerted me that he had seen 2 Bearded Tits from the Reedbed Screen, therefore I made my way round there but despite spending 90 minutes looking I drew a blank. Compensation was a Water Rail swimming across the channel in front of the screen and a Peregrine over. 2 Buzzards were up over Bolton, 2 Green Sandpipers flew over the Mere and there were 240 Gadwall on the Mere/Field Pools. Later on I returned for the roost, the weather was mixed to say the least but the birds were good, I counted 64 Cormorants and 7 Little Egrets coming in. 43 Shoveler were busily feeding on the Main Marsh and a Barn Owl was hunting
Adwick Washland Sunday January 31st
I arrived at Adwick at 10.30 this morning, the weather was poor with drizzle and 4c. Nothing unusual seen today but I did record the following:- Little Egret 2, Shelduck 3, Wigeon 56, Teal 63, Gadwall 39, Shoveler 6, Grey Partridge 7, Lapwing 45.
Wombwell Ings Sunday January 31st
Following lunch in the Old Moor Cafe I had a walk onto Wombwell Ings for the first time this year, the vegetation has been cut and the Ings are looking good for the spring. 2 Little Egrets were feeding as were 171 Wigeon, 108 Lapwing and 125 Golden Plover were resting. A Peregrine flew through and put everything up, a Grey Wagtail was feeding on the River Dearne and Jeff spotted a Water Rail in the Bulling Dyke opposite the Old Moor Tavern, I was too slow and missed it.
Old Moor Sunday January 31st
Onto Old Moor for the roost and with Jeff in the Wader Scrape hide and myself in the Wath Ings hide we had everything covered. 62 Cormorants came in and 9 Little Egrets were counted, a great total for January and heres hoping for another record breaking year. Jeff counted 46 Goosanders on the Wader Scrape, a drake Pintail was on the Main Marsh and there were 9 Goldeneye in total. The pair of Bearded Tits were again seen from the Reedbed Screen this morning.
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 31.01.16
4 degrees with 8/8 cloud, fine rain and a light south westerly this morning. Westerly breeze this afternoon.
Anglers CP: Shoveler 1 male and Green Woodpecker 2.
Wintersett Res: A Cetti's Warbler was seen and heard on the NW bank.
Both Gull Roosts were a shambles today. Observers spent a frustrating time with dreads from start to finish. Initially the birds on WRes were flushed by a helicopter , but there was no obvious reason for the disturbances on Anglers CP. The only notable was Psycho, the adult Yellow-legged Gull on the small raft ACP at 16.45hrs.
Anglers CP: Shoveler 1 male and Green Woodpecker 2.
Wintersett Res: A Cetti's Warbler was seen and heard on the NW bank.
Both Gull Roosts were a shambles today. Observers spent a frustrating time with dreads from start to finish. Initially the birds on WRes were flushed by a helicopter , but there was no obvious reason for the disturbances on Anglers CP. The only notable was Psycho, the adult Yellow-legged Gull on the small raft ACP at 16.45hrs.
Saturday, 30 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 30.01.16
5 degrees with a few short sunny spells and a gusty south westerly this morning. 2 degrees with rain, sleet and a strong westerly late afternoon.
Wintersett Res: An adult Peregrine flew west at 08.43hrs + 2 Peregrine flew over ACP at 09.50hrs. A Cetti's warbler was in the north west corner.
Anglers CP: A Buzzard flew over. Teal 2.
Two good gull roosts were watched tonight:
The juvenile Kumlien's Gull flew in to WRes at 16.15hrs and then flew to Anglers CP Roost at 16.45hrs. It was joined by the juvenile Glaucous Gull at 16.55hrs
WRes Roost. A 2nd W Iceland Gull was on at 16,50hrs and a 1stW Caspian Gull at 17.07hrs.
Wintersett Res: An adult Peregrine flew west at 08.43hrs + 2 Peregrine flew over ACP at 09.50hrs. A Cetti's warbler was in the north west corner.
Anglers CP: A Buzzard flew over. Teal 2.
Two good gull roosts were watched tonight:
The juvenile Kumlien's Gull flew in to WRes at 16.15hrs and then flew to Anglers CP Roost at 16.45hrs. It was joined by the juvenile Glaucous Gull at 16.55hrs
WRes Roost. A 2nd W Iceland Gull was on at 16,50hrs and a 1stW Caspian Gull at 17.07hrs.
Friday, 29 January 2016
Carlton Marsh
The highlights of today were; 8 Tufted Duck, Shoveler, Goldeneye, Barn Owl hunting from 16.45hrs.
After dark 2 foxes were hunting the marsh, one shrieking as they mated.
After dark 2 foxes were hunting the marsh, one shrieking as they mated.
Wintersett + Gull Roost 29.01.16
10 degrees with light rain and a heavy shower this morning and a very gusty,strong south westerly wind.
Anglers CP: Cormorant 12 and Teal 2.
Walton Canal: Nuthatch 1.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 west bank, Water Rail 1 west bank and 1 south west bank and Shoveler 1 male and Wigeon 11.
WRes. Gull Roost: Large numbers of big gulls came in, but most were very late. No notables were picked up but the leucistic Black-headed Gull was seen.
Anglers CP: Cormorant 12 and Teal 2.
Walton Canal: Nuthatch 1.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 west bank, Water Rail 1 west bank and 1 south west bank and Shoveler 1 male and Wigeon 11.
WRes. Gull Roost: Large numbers of big gulls came in, but most were very late. No notables were picked up but the leucistic Black-headed Gull was seen.
The Edge 29.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Walked on to see 2 shooters in the backfield, along with decoy Canada Geese. Saw one Canada Goose taken out of the sky and there appeared to be two other dead birds piled against the hedge. Compared to recent days, numbers of Canada Geese, Lapwing, Golden Plover and Shoveler were down. Present were 2 Mute Swan, 104 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 145 Wigeon, 25 Teal, 6 Tufted Duck, 6 Mallard, 4m Pochard, 1m+1f Goosander, 3 Little Egret, 5 Grey Heron, 14 Coot, 112 Golden Plover, 33 Lapwing, 58 BH Gull and 3 Common Gull.
TPT - 6+ Siskin.
Boltom Ings - On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 7m+9f Pochard, 14 Tufted Duck, 7m+7f Goosander, 11 Shoveler, 9 Teal, 7 Mallard, 3m+3f Goldeneye, 5 Gadwall, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 145 Coot, 142 BH Gull, 18 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull. Also present were 17 Canada Geese, 7 Greylag, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Cormorant, 11 Lapwing and 1 Green Woodpecker.
TPT - 6+ Siskin.
Boltom Ings - On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 7m+9f Pochard, 14 Tufted Duck, 7m+7f Goosander, 11 Shoveler, 9 Teal, 7 Mallard, 3m+3f Goldeneye, 5 Gadwall, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 145 Coot, 142 BH Gull, 18 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull. Also present were 17 Canada Geese, 7 Greylag, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Cormorant, 11 Lapwing and 1 Green Woodpecker.
Thursday, 28 January 2016
Interesting sign...
Saw this today on fishing ponds near Deepcar. Is this something that should be adopted for birders in Barnsley? I dare not suggest any locations but perhaps others can?
Ingbirchworth area
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 207 Canada Geese, 34 Mallards, 13 Tufted Ducks, 1 Cormorant, 5 Coots, 600+ Black-headed Gulls, c200 Common Gulls and 16 Herring Gulls.
Scout Dike Reservoir - 188+ Canada Geese (different to Ingbirchworth birds), 53 Mallards, 2 Tufted Ducks, pair Tufted Ducks, 2 drake Goosanders, 3 Cormorants, 2 Moorhens, 15 Coots and 10+ Robins.
Royd Moor Reservoir - 1 Greenland White-fronted Goose, 172 Greylag Geese and 1 Cormorant.
Scout Dike Reservoir - 188+ Canada Geese (different to Ingbirchworth birds), 53 Mallards, 2 Tufted Ducks, pair Tufted Ducks, 2 drake Goosanders, 3 Cormorants, 2 Moorhens, 15 Coots and 10+ Robins.
Royd Moor Reservoir - 1 Greenland White-fronted Goose, 172 Greylag Geese and 1 Cormorant.
Wednesday, 27 January 2016
Wintersett +Gull Roosts 27.01.16
10 degrees with 8/8 cloud and a strong south westerly to westerly by late afternoon.
Anglers CP: Green Woodpecker 1and Tawny Owl 1.
Psycho, the adult Yellow-legged Gull, came into the ACP roost. He was seen on an island in Walton Hall Lake this morning. .
Wintersett Res: Buzzard 1 over. An unringed Cetti's Warbler was on the south west bank late this afternoon. This bird was previously recorded on the 15th January and now confirms that we have six Cetti's Warblers in the area.
WRes Roost: The gulls came in late again tonight. The leucistic Black-headed Gull was in at 16.45hrs. Then a 1st W Caspian Gull at 16.55hrs. The dark juvenile Glaucous Gull was in at 17.05hrs and the juvenile Kumlien's Gull was in at 17.10hrs.
Anglers CP: Green Woodpecker 1and Tawny Owl 1.
Psycho, the adult Yellow-legged Gull, came into the ACP roost. He was seen on an island in Walton Hall Lake this morning. .
Wintersett Res: Buzzard 1 over. An unringed Cetti's Warbler was on the south west bank late this afternoon. This bird was previously recorded on the 15th January and now confirms that we have six Cetti's Warblers in the area.
WRes Roost: The gulls came in late again tonight. The leucistic Black-headed Gull was in at 16.45hrs. Then a 1st W Caspian Gull at 16.55hrs. The dark juvenile Glaucous Gull was in at 17.05hrs and the juvenile Kumlien's Gull was in at 17.10hrs.
Carlton Marsh
Not much change from yesterday - Goldeneye still here and Shoveler. A Snipe was 'drumming' just as it got dark. (Dave Standish)
Now that's something we don't here very often here these days!
Now that's something we don't here very often here these days!
The Edge 27.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Just packing up to leave at 9.50am, when I heard a distinctive call. A scan of the of the near edge of the main pool revealed a Ringed Plover ( An early bird for the year but B.Emson had recorded one at Edderthorpe 10 minutes earlier on Twitter ). Also present were 2 Mute Swan, 231 Canada Geese, 3 Greylag, 125 Wigeon, 21 Teal, 13 Mallard, 5m+4f Goosander, 7 Shoveler, 4 Tufted Duck, 2m+1f Pochard, 3 Little Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 11 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel, 214 Golden Plover, 126 Lapwing, 33 BH Gull, 1 Common Gull and 1 Kingfisher.
Bolton Ings - On the open water were 7 Mute Swan, 24 Mallard, 23 Tufted Duck, 19 Shoveler, 9m+3f Pochard, 3m+5f Goldeneye, 7 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 1f Goosander, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 125 Coot, 68 BH Gull, 29 Common Gull and 7 Herring Gull. Also noted were 23 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 2 Cormorant, 4 Moorhen,1 Lapwing, 1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Jay.
Bolton Ings - On the open water were 7 Mute Swan, 24 Mallard, 23 Tufted Duck, 19 Shoveler, 9m+3f Pochard, 3m+5f Goldeneye, 7 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 1f Goosander, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 125 Coot, 68 BH Gull, 29 Common Gull and 7 Herring Gull. Also noted were 23 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 2 Cormorant, 4 Moorhen,1 Lapwing, 1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Jay.
Tuesday, 26 January 2016
proposed ywt visitor centre at Spurn
I imagine there cant be many birders from Barnsley who haven't visited Spurn. I first visited in 1970 with Phil Wordsworth and Dave Standring and, apart from the 'wilderness years' I spent birding at Filey, I've been a regular visitor ever since, and now live in Easington. Not many places I'd have moved to from Broomhill. Spurn is one of the few wild and unique place left. The YWT are proposing to build a two storey visitor centre with a 23m radar tower, which is basically a wind turbine mast with a 5m rotating arm on the top, on a small meadow by the canal scrape. Spurn Bird Observatory Trust are opposed to it as are over 90% of locals. If you would like to Keep Spurn Wild please go to GAZPICSVIEW.WORDPRESS.COM to see how to object to this obscene development.
cheers Mick
cheers Mick
More bad news
I have just heard that Ray Dye passed away last Sunday after a long illness!
Mark Cassidy's wife Jean died whilst on a birding holiday in Goa last week!
Mark Cassidy's wife Jean died whilst on a birding holiday in Goa last week!
Wintersett + Gull Roost 26.01.16
12 degrees with 8/8 cloud and gale force south westerly wind meant that
Wintersett Res Roost was the place to get best views. Good numbers of large gulls came in, but were very late again. The juvenile Kumliens Gull was in at 17.00hrs, the juvenile Glaucous Gull dropped in, at 17.06hrs and the 2nd W Iceland Gull was in at 17.08hrs.
Anglers CP: Green Woodpecker 2.
Wintersett Res Roost was the place to get best views. Good numbers of large gulls came in, but were very late again. The juvenile Kumliens Gull was in at 17.00hrs, the juvenile Glaucous Gull dropped in, at 17.06hrs and the 2nd W Iceland Gull was in at 17.08hrs.
Anglers CP: Green Woodpecker 2.
The Edge 26.01.16
Wombwell Ings -Present were 2 Mute Swan, 231 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 98 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 9 Mallard, 6 Tufted Duck, 4m+1f Pochard, 2m+2f Goosander, 2 Cormorant, 4 Little Egret, 2 Grey Heron, 4 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 188 Golden Plover, 147 Lapwing, 49 BH Gull, 3 Common Gull and 2 Mistle Thrush.
TPT - An overcast day brightened by the sight a pair of brightly coloured Lesser Redpoll.
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 2 Mute Swan, 14 Tufted Duck, 5m+3f Goosander, 3m+5f Goldeneye, 4 Mallard, 3m Pochard, 2 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 1f Wigeon, 3 Little Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 154 Coot, 121 BH Gull, 14 Common Gull and 2 Herring Gull. Also present were 13 Canada Geese, 10 Greylag over, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Moorhen, 1 Lapwing, 1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Jay.
TPT - An overcast day brightened by the sight a pair of brightly coloured Lesser Redpoll.
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 2 Mute Swan, 14 Tufted Duck, 5m+3f Goosander, 3m+5f Goldeneye, 4 Mallard, 3m Pochard, 2 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 1f Wigeon, 3 Little Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 154 Coot, 121 BH Gull, 14 Common Gull and 2 Herring Gull. Also present were 13 Canada Geese, 10 Greylag over, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Moorhen, 1 Lapwing, 1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Jay.
Monday, 25 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roost 25.01.16
12 degrees, very mild, cloudy with sunny spell this afternoon and a strengthening south westerly.
Wintersett Res: A male Cetti's Warbler and a Willow Tit were on the west bank.
Due to the strong south westerly, WRes Gull Roost was watched this afternoon. After a very slow start, good number of large gulls came in late from Hampole. The juvenile Kumlien's Gull gave excellent views at 16.20hrs. An adult Yellow-legged gull was in at 16.30hrs, a 2ndW Iceland Gull was in at 16.55hrs and the dark juvenile Glaucous Gull came in at 1700hrs.
Wintersett Res: A male Cetti's Warbler and a Willow Tit were on the west bank.
Due to the strong south westerly, WRes Gull Roost was watched this afternoon. After a very slow start, good number of large gulls came in late from Hampole. The juvenile Kumlien's Gull gave excellent views at 16.20hrs. An adult Yellow-legged gull was in at 16.30hrs, a 2ndW Iceland Gull was in at 16.55hrs and the dark juvenile Glaucous Gull came in at 1700hrs.
Carlton Marsh
This afternoon with Dave Standish
Goldeneye duck, 2 Snipe, Woodcock, Water Rail, Buzzard, 10 Redwing, c50 Yellow Buntings (this was not a full count) 3 Canada Geese and Tawny Owl.
A Peacock butterfly whizzed around my garden several times at mid-day before heading for a neighbouring garden.
The Edge 25.01.16
Wombwell Ings - The back field was productive with a Buzzard ( dark coloured with a a white chest bar ) hunting for worms/ beetles, 3 Little Egret in the corner near the gypsy camp and 6 Skylark( 2+ in song flight). On the Ings were 2 Mute Swan, 117 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 198 Wigeon, 27 Teal,14 Shoveler, 13 Mallard, 4 Tufted Duck, 2m+2f Goosander, 2m+1f Pochard, 2 Cormorant, 4 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret, 232 Golden Plover, 153 Lapwing, 38 BH Gull,1 Common Gull and 1 Kingfisher.
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 1 Mute Swan, 13m+10f Pochard, 22 Tufted Duck, 6m+4f Goosander, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 2 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 1 Shoveler, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 138 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 68 BH Gull, 54 Common Gull and 4 Herring Gull. Also present were 17 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 4 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret flying east, 100+ Lapwing over, 1 female Sparrowhawk, 1 LBB Gull over,1 Greater Spotted Woodpecker, 1 calling Green Woodpecker, 3 Bullfinch and 1 Reed Bunting.
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 1 Mute Swan, 13m+10f Pochard, 22 Tufted Duck, 6m+4f Goosander, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 2 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 1 Shoveler, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 138 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 68 BH Gull, 54 Common Gull and 4 Herring Gull. Also present were 17 Canada Geese, 4 Greylag, 4 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret flying east, 100+ Lapwing over, 1 female Sparrowhawk, 1 LBB Gull over,1 Greater Spotted Woodpecker, 1 calling Green Woodpecker, 3 Bullfinch and 1 Reed Bunting.
Sunday, 24 January 2016
Dearne Valley Weekender
Bolton Ings - Saturday 23rd January
News of a redhead Smew on Bolton on Friday saw me in the Bolton Hide at 08.00 hoping it would still be present. No ice this week in fact the temperature was more spring like than mid January. Despite spending a couple of hours looking there was no sign of the Smew, however a Bittern was present flying along the near edge and dropping into the reeds right in front of the hide. A Barn Owl was out hunting and birds on the open water included :- Great Crested Grebe 2, Goldeneye 5, Goosander 5, Tufted Duck 15, Pochard 9 drakes and 7 ducks.
Adwick Washland - Sunday 24th January
I arrived at Adwick at 10.30 in very pleasant conditions with a temperature of 13c. A Little Owl was settled in a hawthorne from the view point and a Buzzard was initially sat on top of a telegraph pole before hunting over the fields. Birds on the pools included :- Little Egret 2, Shelduck 5, Wigeon 62, Teal 84, Gadwall 40, Shoveler 8, Snipe 1.
Old Moor - Sunday 24th January
Following lunch in the cafe I went onto Old Moor, news that there were several Goldeneye on the main marsh meant I headed straight for the Wath Ings hide. The water level has risen since last week and the Goldeneye have responded, I counted 10 birds with 4 drakes and 6 redheads. From the Wader Scrape hide there were a further pair of Goldeneye on the mere and the Goosanders were gathering early with 19 present at 15.00. Back to the Wath Ings hide for the roost where final counts were an impressive 52 Cormorants and 7 Little Egrets. 11 Goldeneye were roosting on the main marsh 3 drakes and 8 redheads. The Goosander numbers continued to rise with a final count of 53 on the Wader Scrape. The pair of Goldeneye were still on the mere with a further redhead with the Goosanders.
The early morning counts at Old Moor were very similar to tonights with Little Egret 8, Cormorant 48 & Goosander 52 seen leaving the roost.
Other species recorded today included : Cetti's Warbler 3, Water Rail 3, Buzzard 2, Ruff 1 & male Brambling.
News of a redhead Smew on Bolton on Friday saw me in the Bolton Hide at 08.00 hoping it would still be present. No ice this week in fact the temperature was more spring like than mid January. Despite spending a couple of hours looking there was no sign of the Smew, however a Bittern was present flying along the near edge and dropping into the reeds right in front of the hide. A Barn Owl was out hunting and birds on the open water included :- Great Crested Grebe 2, Goldeneye 5, Goosander 5, Tufted Duck 15, Pochard 9 drakes and 7 ducks.
Adwick Washland - Sunday 24th January
I arrived at Adwick at 10.30 in very pleasant conditions with a temperature of 13c. A Little Owl was settled in a hawthorne from the view point and a Buzzard was initially sat on top of a telegraph pole before hunting over the fields. Birds on the pools included :- Little Egret 2, Shelduck 5, Wigeon 62, Teal 84, Gadwall 40, Shoveler 8, Snipe 1.
Old Moor - Sunday 24th January
Following lunch in the cafe I went onto Old Moor, news that there were several Goldeneye on the main marsh meant I headed straight for the Wath Ings hide. The water level has risen since last week and the Goldeneye have responded, I counted 10 birds with 4 drakes and 6 redheads. From the Wader Scrape hide there were a further pair of Goldeneye on the mere and the Goosanders were gathering early with 19 present at 15.00. Back to the Wath Ings hide for the roost where final counts were an impressive 52 Cormorants and 7 Little Egrets. 11 Goldeneye were roosting on the main marsh 3 drakes and 8 redheads. The Goosander numbers continued to rise with a final count of 53 on the Wader Scrape. The pair of Goldeneye were still on the mere with a further redhead with the Goosanders.
The early morning counts at Old Moor were very similar to tonights with Little Egret 8, Cormorant 48 & Goosander 52 seen leaving the roost.
Other species recorded today included : Cetti's Warbler 3, Water Rail 3, Buzzard 2, Ruff 1 & male Brambling.
Weekend and recent roundup 24/1/16.
Wilthorpe Marsh - Jack Snipe 5, Common 20, Rail 3+, Linnet flock 100+, 70 Pied Wags left sewage farm towards town today at 3-50pm, Mistle Thrush 18, Fieldfare 5, Willow Tit 3, Buzzard 3. Dodworth capitol park ind. est. - 2 Jack Snipe today. Ewden valley from road yesterday aft. - very steady with Peregrine, Buzzard 2, Kestrel 4, Fieldfare 200 with 200 Starlings mostly down. Woolley Dam, Mill Lane, A61 circ. - quiet with no sign of any peckers but 11 Teal, 6 Siskin, 200 Woodpigeon.
Edderthorpe & Houghton, Sunday
Houghton was relatively quiet and most of these counts refer to Edderthorpe;-
Mute Swan 15, Pink-footed Goose 3 with the Greylag/Canada flock, Shelduck 1, Mallard around 850 in this area of the valley, Pintail 1 drake, Shoveler 12, Wigeon 242, Gadwall 35, Pochard 14, Goldeneye 1, Little Grebe 4, Little Egret 3, Coot 59, Barn Owl 2, Common Buzzard 1. During the last week the RSPB have been carrying out habitat work topping the vegetation and on one day flushed 40 Common Snipe and 7 Jack Snipe from the marsh.
Mute Swan 15, Pink-footed Goose 3 with the Greylag/Canada flock, Shelduck 1, Mallard around 850 in this area of the valley, Pintail 1 drake, Shoveler 12, Wigeon 242, Gadwall 35, Pochard 14, Goldeneye 1, Little Grebe 4, Little Egret 3, Coot 59, Barn Owl 2, Common Buzzard 1. During the last week the RSPB have been carrying out habitat work topping the vegetation and on one day flushed 40 Common Snipe and 7 Jack Snipe from the marsh.
Wintersett + Gull Roost 24.01.16
An exceptionally mild 9 - 14 degrees, with 6/8 cloud and a light south westerly.
Wintersett Res: A Water Rail and a male Cetti's Warbler were in the boathouse reeds.
Cold Hiendley Res: A Cetti's Warbler was heard on the SE bank. Willow Tit 1 + 1 ACP.
Haw Park Wood: A Tawny Owl was calling from Stubbs Wood. Siskin 7.
Anglers CP: 150 Pink-footed Geese flew north west at 11.15hrs and 65 went west at 14.35hrs. Barn Owl 1 and Goosander 17.
ACP Gull Roost was very disappointing today. Large gulls were distant and numbers were poor. The only notable bird was a 1st W Yellow-legged Gull in at 15.10hrs. Great Black-backed Gull 86 and Herring Gull 908.
Of interest: An adult and a 1st W Yellow-legged Gull in Pugneys roost - per Mick Hemingway.
Wintersett Res: A Water Rail and a male Cetti's Warbler were in the boathouse reeds.
Cold Hiendley Res: A Cetti's Warbler was heard on the SE bank. Willow Tit 1 + 1 ACP.
Haw Park Wood: A Tawny Owl was calling from Stubbs Wood. Siskin 7.
Anglers CP: 150 Pink-footed Geese flew north west at 11.15hrs and 65 went west at 14.35hrs. Barn Owl 1 and Goosander 17.
ACP Gull Roost was very disappointing today. Large gulls were distant and numbers were poor. The only notable bird was a 1st W Yellow-legged Gull in at 15.10hrs. Great Black-backed Gull 86 and Herring Gull 908.
Of interest: An adult and a 1st W Yellow-legged Gull in Pugneys roost - per Mick Hemingway.
Saturday, 23 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 23.01.16
10 degrees with sun this morning, but cloudier this afternoon with a south to south easterly.
5 Cetti's Warblers, including 2 singing males, confirmed in the area today. North bank, Botany Marsh, West Bank, Boathouse Reeds on WRes + a new male south bank, west of sewage works CHRes, found by Graham Speight
Wintersett Res: Redpoll 1 S over Botany, Nuthatch 1 Pits Wood, Willow Tit 2 west bank and Water Rail 1. An adult female Peregrine flew over SW.
Anglers CP: Golden Plover 2 over.
Area totals: 47 Great Crested Grebe (25ACP + 3 CHres. + 19 WRes. 56 Goldeneye (15 WRes. + 16 CHRes. + 25 ACP)
Both Gull Roosts were watched today. Good numbers of large gulls with plenty coming in early.
Totals: Herring Gull 2218 ( 1318 ACP + 900 WRes). Greater Black-backed Guls are decreasing rapidly now as they move back north - 91 (60 ACP + 31 WRes). Lesser Black-backed Gull 7 (3 ACP + 4 WRes). An adult Yellow-legged Gull was on WRes.
HIGHLIGHT TODAY was the juvenile KUMLIEN'S GULL on ACP nice and early, showing reasonably well towards the back of the flock at 15.40hrs. Unbelieveably, just before 16.00hrs it flew towards the hide and landed on the rocks in the shallows, giving amazing views. The 2nd W Iceland Gull was in at 16.30hrs and the 4thW Caspian Gull was in at 16.40hrs.
Also checkout Twitter @StevieD131 for Kumlien's video.
5 Cetti's Warblers, including 2 singing males, confirmed in the area today. North bank, Botany Marsh, West Bank, Boathouse Reeds on WRes + a new male south bank, west of sewage works CHRes, found by Graham Speight
Wintersett Res: Redpoll 1 S over Botany, Nuthatch 1 Pits Wood, Willow Tit 2 west bank and Water Rail 1. An adult female Peregrine flew over SW.
Anglers CP: Golden Plover 2 over.
Area totals: 47 Great Crested Grebe (25ACP + 3 CHres. + 19 WRes. 56 Goldeneye (15 WRes. + 16 CHRes. + 25 ACP)
Both Gull Roosts were watched today. Good numbers of large gulls with plenty coming in early.
Totals: Herring Gull 2218 ( 1318 ACP + 900 WRes). Greater Black-backed Guls are decreasing rapidly now as they move back north - 91 (60 ACP + 31 WRes). Lesser Black-backed Gull 7 (3 ACP + 4 WRes). An adult Yellow-legged Gull was on WRes.
HIGHLIGHT TODAY was the juvenile KUMLIEN'S GULL on ACP nice and early, showing reasonably well towards the back of the flock at 15.40hrs. Unbelieveably, just before 16.00hrs it flew towards the hide and landed on the rocks in the shallows, giving amazing views. The 2nd W Iceland Gull was in at 16.30hrs and the 4thW Caspian Gull was in at 16.40hrs.
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| Kumlien's Gull juvenile ACP |
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| Kumlien's Gull juv ACP |
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| Kumlien's Gull juvenile ACP SDenny |
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| Kumlien's Gull juvenile ACP SDenny |
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| Kumlien's Gull juvenile ACP SDenny |
Friday, 22 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 22.01.16
5 degrees with rain all morning. Back to a mild 10 degrees and sunny with 5/8 cloud and a light south westerly this afternoon.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1m boathouse reeds. A British ringed, adult Herring Gull was found dead this afternoon.
Old Royston Flash: Fieldfare 35.
Anglers CP: Barn Owl 1, Buzzard 4 and Golden Plover 9W. Peregrine 1 NW at 15.55hrs.
Both Gull Roosts were watched today, but numbers of large gulls were down with many birds coming in at 17.00hrs and after dark. Viewing conditions were difficult due to the birds being head on , even though the light was good initially. No notables were picked up on Wintersett Res but 2 X 2nd W Caspian Gulls were found on ACP at 16.05 and 16.35hrs.
Of interest: Pugneys Roost had an adult Yellow-legged Gull plus what looked like the Wintersett 4thW Caspian Gull briefly and still 53 Lesser Black-backed Gulls. per @jonnymacbirder
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1m boathouse reeds. A British ringed, adult Herring Gull was found dead this afternoon.
Old Royston Flash: Fieldfare 35.
Anglers CP: Barn Owl 1, Buzzard 4 and Golden Plover 9W. Peregrine 1 NW at 15.55hrs.
Both Gull Roosts were watched today, but numbers of large gulls were down with many birds coming in at 17.00hrs and after dark. Viewing conditions were difficult due to the birds being head on , even though the light was good initially. No notables were picked up on Wintersett Res but 2 X 2nd W Caspian Gulls were found on ACP at 16.05 and 16.35hrs.
Of interest: Pugneys Roost had an adult Yellow-legged Gull plus what looked like the Wintersett 4thW Caspian Gull briefly and still 53 Lesser Black-backed Gulls. per @jonnymacbirder
Carlton Marsh
Very mild this afternoon 11c. I was joined by Dick Laverack, Dave Standish and Chris Parkin.
The Goldeneye duck was still on the wader scrape and 3 Goosanders (1 male) left Bleachcroft Farm Pond south at 14.05hrs. Kingfisher, Buzzard, 2 Siskin and 2 Great Spot Woodpeckers were noted.
As dusk approached buntings began to arrive in small groups to roost in the Phragmites reedbeds, they looked to be all Yellow Buntings - a final total of 147.
A Tawny Owl called from his usual tree and when it was almost dark, for the second time this week, a large owl flew high across the marsh towards the Western Meadow. Seen at some distance, it had to be an Asio owl, probably Long-eared!
The Edge 22.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Present were 98 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 1 Shelduck, 104 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 11 Mallard, 6 Shoveler, 2m+2f Pochard, 4 Tufted Duck, 1m+2f Goosander 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 3 Coot, 314 Golden Plover(the highest total on the ings this winter), 159 Lapwing, 4 Snipe, 122 BH Gull, 7 Common Gull and a group of 6 Pied Wagtail.
Bolton Ings- A female Smew, first noticed by J.Seeviour, was the highlight of the day. Also present were 2 Mute Swan, 17 Canada Geese, 23 Tufted Duck, 13 Mallard, 7m+5f Pochard, 3m+3f Goldeneye, 2 Gadwall, 1m+1f Goosander, 1 Teal, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 161 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 10 Lapwing over, 67 BH Gull, 14 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull.
Bolton Ings- A female Smew, first noticed by J.Seeviour, was the highlight of the day. Also present were 2 Mute Swan, 17 Canada Geese, 23 Tufted Duck, 13 Mallard, 7m+5f Pochard, 3m+3f Goldeneye, 2 Gadwall, 1m+1f Goosander, 1 Teal, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 161 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 10 Lapwing over, 67 BH Gull, 14 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull.
Thursday, 21 January 2016
John Cudworth - Funeral Details
The funeral of John Cudworth
will be held at Wakefield Crematorium
on Tuesday, February 2nd at 11.00hrs.
No flowers are requested.
Donations will go to Spurn Bird Observatory.
Directions for Crematorium: Standbridge Lane,
Kettlethorpe,
Wakefield
WF4 3JA
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 21.01.16
Frosty start, 2-5 degrees with 8/8 and a light southerly. Rain from 14.30hrs.
ICE: WRes. 50%, ACP 80%, CHRes 95%.
Wintersett Res: A Skylark flew over. (new bird for year). Cetti's Warbler 1 north bank, Water Rail 1, Shoveler 2 + 1 ACP, Mallard 72, Great Crested Grebe 23 + 17 ACP and Pochard 154 + 30 ACP.
Anglers CP: Siskin 1 S, Little Grebe 7 and Teal 11.
Both Gull Roosts were checked. Plenty of birds came in to both waters, but many were difficult to view because they were packed together, standing on the ice. Rain, bad light and birds arriving later didn't help either. However , three notables were seen on Anglers. the 2nd W Iceland Gull flew in at 15.25hrs, The dark, juvenile Glaucous Gull was in at 15.55hrs and the juvenile Kumlien's Gull was picked up at 16.40hrs. No Caspian Gulls were seen tonight.
ICE: WRes. 50%, ACP 80%, CHRes 95%.
Wintersett Res: A Skylark flew over. (new bird for year). Cetti's Warbler 1 north bank, Water Rail 1, Shoveler 2 + 1 ACP, Mallard 72, Great Crested Grebe 23 + 17 ACP and Pochard 154 + 30 ACP.
Anglers CP: Siskin 1 S, Little Grebe 7 and Teal 11.
Both Gull Roosts were checked. Plenty of birds came in to both waters, but many were difficult to view because they were packed together, standing on the ice. Rain, bad light and birds arriving later didn't help either. However , three notables were seen on Anglers. the 2nd W Iceland Gull flew in at 15.25hrs, The dark, juvenile Glaucous Gull was in at 15.55hrs and the juvenile Kumlien's Gull was picked up at 16.40hrs. No Caspian Gulls were seen tonight.
Wednesday, 20 January 2016
Wintersett + Another Excellent Gull Roost 20.01.16
NB. This post was edited on 23.01.16 to reflect the re identification of the ringed 1st W Caspian Gull as a 1stW Caspian X Herring Hybrid after ringing information was received.
0 - 5 degrees, with fog all morning, but clear skies this afternoon.
Wintersett Res: A Cetti's Warbler was singing on west bank and a Water Rail was heard.
Anglers CP: 2 Shoveler were new in today.
A packed hide, at Anglers CP, was treated to another very exiting GULL ROOST: The presence of 4 very experienced 'Gullers' aided and abetted the crowd. For starters the dark juvenile Glaucous Gull showed up early, at 14.55hrs and then flew over to Wintersett Res. at 15.05hrs.
Next up was a Immature Glaucous X Herring Hybrid Gull at 15.35hrs. A 1stW Caspian Gull came in at 15.45hrs, closely followed by a 2nd W Iceland Gull at 15.52hrs and then a 1st W Caspian Gull with a 1stW Caspian X Herring Hybrid at 16.15hrs.
The juvenile Glaucous Gull returned to ACP at 16.20hrs. Shortly after, the 1stW Caspian X Herring Hybrid Gull came in close and perched on the rock wall and showed brilliantly to everybody. It had a yellow colour ring 6L45 on its left leg. See video on Twitter @jonnymacbirder
And there's more...! Three more 1stWs Caspian Gulls were picked up by 16.45hrs - making a grand total of 5 X 1stW Caspian Gulls present.
To close the show, after quite a long absence, Psycho, the adult Yellow-legged Gull landed on an island at 17.00hrs.
0 - 5 degrees, with fog all morning, but clear skies this afternoon.
Wintersett Res: A Cetti's Warbler was singing on west bank and a Water Rail was heard.
Anglers CP: 2 Shoveler were new in today.
A packed hide, at Anglers CP, was treated to another very exiting GULL ROOST: The presence of 4 very experienced 'Gullers' aided and abetted the crowd. For starters the dark juvenile Glaucous Gull showed up early, at 14.55hrs and then flew over to Wintersett Res. at 15.05hrs.
Next up was a Immature Glaucous X Herring Hybrid Gull at 15.35hrs. A 1stW Caspian Gull came in at 15.45hrs, closely followed by a 2nd W Iceland Gull at 15.52hrs and then a 1st W Caspian Gull with a 1stW Caspian X Herring Hybrid at 16.15hrs.
The juvenile Glaucous Gull returned to ACP at 16.20hrs. Shortly after, the 1stW Caspian X Herring Hybrid Gull came in close and perched on the rock wall and showed brilliantly to everybody. It had a yellow colour ring 6L45 on its left leg. See video on Twitter @jonnymacbirder
And there's more...! Three more 1stWs Caspian Gulls were picked up by 16.45hrs - making a grand total of 5 X 1stW Caspian Gulls present.
To close the show, after quite a long absence, Psycho, the adult Yellow-legged Gull landed on an island at 17.00hrs.
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| 1stW Caspian Gull X Herring Gull Hybrid 6L45 ACP JMcLoughlin |
Over the past week a phenomenal 9 different Caspian Gulls have been seen here.
5 X 1stW, 1 X 2ndW, 2 X 3rd W and 1 X 4thW
(Obviously a cold weather influx has brought these birds from the continent)
The only bird missing tonight was the juvenile Kumlien's Gull. However, 'our' bird was photographed yesterday, 19th January 2016, in much better lighting conditions, at Hampole Tip by John Wozencroft. Great shot!
Juvenile Kumlien's Gull Hampole Tip
John Wozencroft 19.01.16
Carlton Marsh
This afternoon's sightings were; Goldeneye duck, Shoveler pair, Snipe 3, Water Rail 3 calling, Willow Tit 2, Siskin 2 and Great Spotted Woodpecker 2.
As dusk approached 2 male Tawny Owls and female were calling.
A Barn Owl was hunting from 16.35hrs. and a Pipistrelle Bat was feeding near the hide for the second consecutive evening. (Dave Smith/Dave Standish)
As dusk approached 2 male Tawny Owls and female were calling.
A Barn Owl was hunting from 16.35hrs. and a Pipistrelle Bat was feeding near the hide for the second consecutive evening. (Dave Smith/Dave Standish)
The Edge 20.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Present were 2 Mute Swan, 35 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 1 Shelduck, 158 Wigeon, 15 Teal, 11 Mallard, 7 Shoveler, 6 Tufted Duck, 5 Gadwall, 2 Goosander, 12 Cormorant over, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Little Egret, 11 Coot, 2 Moorhen, 1 Sparrowhawk, c100 Golden Plover, c150 Lapwing, 200+ BH Gull, 4 Common Gull, 1 Kingfisher and 1 Mistle Thrush.
TPT - 3 Siskin and 1 Greater Spotted Woodpecker.
Bolton Ings - On the open water were 7 Mute Swan, 3 Greylag, 30 Tufted Duck, 12m+12f Pochard, 7 Teal, 7 Mallard, 3m+3f Goldeneye, 2m+2f Goosander, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 157 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 31 BH Gull and 1 Common Gull. Also present were 28 Canada Geese, 7 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Barn Owl, 4 Snipe and 1 Green Woodpecker.
TPT - 3 Siskin and 1 Greater Spotted Woodpecker.
Bolton Ings - On the open water were 7 Mute Swan, 3 Greylag, 30 Tufted Duck, 12m+12f Pochard, 7 Teal, 7 Mallard, 3m+3f Goldeneye, 2m+2f Goosander, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 157 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 31 BH Gull and 1 Common Gull. Also present were 28 Canada Geese, 7 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Barn Owl, 4 Snipe and 1 Green Woodpecker.
Tuesday, 19 January 2016
More old photos......
1990 at Bretton with Mark (monkey) Watson passing a bag of young Herons down and Steve Davies to colour ringing them. Over four years we colour ringed around 120 young Heron at Bretton with later dispersed birds seen in North Wales, North Yorkshire, the Midlands and many places between.
Mark and Steve still ring mainly raptors in the Barnsley area and Dark Peak. I met Steve after a few years absence at Steve Robinson's funeral yesterday. A few BBSG members will remember Steve Robinson who worked in BMBC Planning Department and was very much involved with nature reserves and various countryside projects. A great person who did a lot for conservation in Barnsley.
Wintersett + Gull Roost 19.01.16
2-5 degrees, milder with 8/8 cloud and a light north westerly.
Wintersett Res: Teal 8 + 6 ACP and Kingfisher 1.
Anglers CP: Redwing 30.
Anglers CP Roost: Good numbers of birds were in early today. A 2nd W Iceland Gull was in at 15.40hrs. 4 Caspian Gulls were picked up:- a 1stW at 15.55hrs, a 2nd W at 16.05hrs, a 3rd W (last nights bird) at 16.10hrs and another 1st W at 16.25hrs.
Wintersett Res: Teal 8 + 6 ACP and Kingfisher 1.
Anglers CP: Redwing 30.
Anglers CP Roost: Good numbers of birds were in early today. A 2nd W Iceland Gull was in at 15.40hrs. 4 Caspian Gulls were picked up:- a 1stW at 15.55hrs, a 2nd W at 16.05hrs, a 3rd W (last nights bird) at 16.10hrs and another 1st W at 16.25hrs.
The Edge 19.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Highlight was my first Oystercatcher of the year on the Ings. Also present were 6 Mute Swan, 106 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 1 Shelduck, 122+ Wigeon, 14 Teal, 11 Mallard, 6 Shelduck, 5 Tufted Duck, 4m Pochard, 3 Gadwall, 1f Goosander, 2 Little Egret, 2 Grey Heron, 7 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 181 Lapwing, 101+ Golden Plover, 125+ BH Gull, 7 Common Gull and a group of 5 Pied Wagtail. A Willow Tit and a Coal Tit were seen at the feeding area across from Old Moor Tavern.
TPT- 2 Kingfisher ( one seen on Knoll Beck and one flying over the golf course near the five arches bridge) and 8 Siskin .
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 6 Mute Swan, 4 Greylag, 14 Tufted Duck, 7m+4f Pochard, 10 Mallard, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 1 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 146 Coot, 200+ BH Gull, 35 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull. Also present were 21 Canada Geese, 1m+4f Goosander over, 2 Grey Heron, 5 Moorhen, 1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Barn Owl.
TPT- 2 Kingfisher ( one seen on Knoll Beck and one flying over the golf course near the five arches bridge) and 8 Siskin .
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 6 Mute Swan, 4 Greylag, 14 Tufted Duck, 7m+4f Pochard, 10 Mallard, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 1 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Cormorant, 146 Coot, 200+ BH Gull, 35 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull. Also present were 21 Canada Geese, 1m+4f Goosander over, 2 Grey Heron, 5 Moorhen, 1 Green Woodpecker and 1 Barn Owl.
Monday, 18 January 2016
Sad News - John Cudworth 18.01.16
I have received sad news that John Cudworth , a former chairman of Spurn Bird Obs for many years, has died today.
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 18.01.16
1 - 4 degrees, 8/8 and dull, with a light south easterly.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 north bank, Teal 9 + 4 ACP. 5 Whooper Swan flew over north at 16.10hrs and dropped in on Astley, Swillington Ings at 16.35hrs.
Ellis Laithe: 30 Feral Pigeon.
Gull Roosts
Anglers CP: 2nd W Iceland Gull at 16.15hrs per Mick Hemingway.
Wintersett Res: A new 3rd W Caspian Gull at 15.40hrs and a new 1st W Caspian Gull at 16.15hrs.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 north bank, Teal 9 + 4 ACP. 5 Whooper Swan flew over north at 16.10hrs and dropped in on Astley, Swillington Ings at 16.35hrs.
Ellis Laithe: 30 Feral Pigeon.
Gull Roosts
Anglers CP: 2nd W Iceland Gull at 16.15hrs per Mick Hemingway.
Wintersett Res: A new 3rd W Caspian Gull at 15.40hrs and a new 1st W Caspian Gull at 16.15hrs.
The Edge 18.01.16
Wombwell Ings - c50 % ice cover on main pool. Present were 3 Mute Swan, 97 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 2 Shelduck, 83 Wigeon, 41 Teal, 16 Mallard, 3 Shoveler, 1 Little Egret( in Bulling Dyke near gypsy camp ), 2 Grey Heron, 161 Lapwing, c150skittish Golden Plover, 121 BH Gull, 12 Common Gull and 1 Coal Tit (feeding area opposite Old Moor Tavern ).
TPT - Kingfisher was perching on a branch over Knoll Beck.
Bolton Ings - 95% ice free. On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 19 Tufted Duck, 10m+4f Pochard, 8 Teal, 7 Mallard, 5 Shoveler, 4 Gadwall, a pair of Goldeneye, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 137 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 34 BH Gull and 3 Common Gull. Also present were 1 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Greylag, 3 Canada Geese, 1m Goosander over and 1 calling Green Woodpecker.
TPT - Kingfisher was perching on a branch over Knoll Beck.
Bolton Ings - 95% ice free. On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 19 Tufted Duck, 10m+4f Pochard, 8 Teal, 7 Mallard, 5 Shoveler, 4 Gadwall, a pair of Goldeneye, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 137 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 34 BH Gull and 3 Common Gull. Also present were 1 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Greylag, 3 Canada Geese, 1m Goosander over and 1 calling Green Woodpecker.
Carlecotes - Midhope
Carlecotes - 1 Little Owl.
Flight Hill - 1 Stonechat.
Victoria - 1 Raven (same bird has been hanging around the area for a month or so).
Ingbirchworth Common - 1 Greenland White-fronted Goose, 224 Greylag Geese (including the leucistic bird), and 162 Canada Geese.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 24 Mallards, 13 Tufted Ducks, 1 Little Grebe, 2 Coots, c15 Black-headed Gulls and 8 Common Gulls.
Langsett Reservoir - 1 Kestrel and 2 Grey Wagtails (on the overflow).
Midhope Reservoir - 5 Mallards
Barnside Moor (Bosville's Piece) plenty of chasing and calling amongst the Red Grouse.
Flight Hill - 1 Stonechat.
Victoria - 1 Raven (same bird has been hanging around the area for a month or so).
Ingbirchworth Common - 1 Greenland White-fronted Goose, 224 Greylag Geese (including the leucistic bird), and 162 Canada Geese.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 24 Mallards, 13 Tufted Ducks, 1 Little Grebe, 2 Coots, c15 Black-headed Gulls and 8 Common Gulls.
Langsett Reservoir - 1 Kestrel and 2 Grey Wagtails (on the overflow).
Midhope Reservoir - 5 Mallards
Barnside Moor (Bosville's Piece) plenty of chasing and calling amongst the Red Grouse.
Sunday, 17 January 2016
Old Moor - WeBS counts
Highlights for the Old Moor Recording Area WeBS counts.
Great Crested Grebe 8, Little Grebe 20, Mallard 176, Wigeon 610, Gadwall 401, Teal 216, Shoveler 54, Shelduck 1, Tufted Duck 112, Pochard 62 (35 drakes+27 ducks), Coot 487, Lapwing 260, Golden Plover 168, Snipe 27, Kingfisher 2.
Great Crested Grebe 8, Little Grebe 20, Mallard 176, Wigeon 610, Gadwall 401, Teal 216, Shoveler 54, Shelduck 1, Tufted Duck 112, Pochard 62 (35 drakes+27 ducks), Coot 487, Lapwing 260, Golden Plover 168, Snipe 27, Kingfisher 2.
Dearne Valley Weekender
Old Moor - Saturday 16th January
My weekend started early, I arrived at the Wader Scrape hide at 07.45 on Saturday morning hoping to see birds leaving the roost. Some Goosanders had probably left when I arrived but I counted a reasonable 32 birds. The Cormorants were more lazy and the sun was up when they started to leave, a great sight as 27 left together, final count was 47. I couldn't see any Little Egrets in the trees but eventually 4 left and made a quick dash onto the River Dearne. The weather was cold and dry with a clear blue sky, the temperature was hovering about freezing which meant a lot of ice. The Main Marsh was 95% ice and on the only free water 24 Shovelers were snoozing. The Wader Scrape was 50% ice but the Mere was ice free. On the Mere were 4 female Goldeneye and the wintering Ruff. I had a walk round to the Reedbeds where there were another 16 Shoveler and also a Water Rail calling.
In the late afternoon I returned to the Reedbeds hoping to see a Bittern, no such luck. However I was rewarded with at least 5 Cetti's Warblers, 3 singing males and a further 2 calling. 2 birds were seen chasing each other through the reeds. The snow had started to fall when I was leaving.
Bolton Ings - Sunday 17th January
The snow had stopped but had put a couple of inches down. I wandered onto Bolton Ings to count the wildfowl etc. as today was WeBS count day. The Western pool was 95% ice and held very few birds, the Eastern pool was 50% ice and counting was a little easier as none of the birds were in the reeds. Fairly quiet today with no real highlights although 22 Pochard were added to the International count. Full list :- Grey Heron 1, Little Egret 1, Mute Swan 8, Great Crested Grebe 1, Little Grebe 4, Mallard 45, Teal 20, Gadwall 4, Shoveler 2, Pochard 22 (12 drakes, 10 ducks), Tufted Duck 30, Goldeneye 3, Goosander 4, Coot 174, Moorhen 3, Lapwing c100, Snipe 8, Black Headed Gull 71, Common Gull 2, Barn Owl 1, Green Woodpecker 1, Grey Wagtail 1, Kingfisher 1, Skylark 1, Meadow Pipit 1.
Adwick Washland - Sunday 17th January
Sunday afternoon I called in at Adwick to do the count, even more ice here, 99%. Many of the birds have moved out but I managed to see the folowing:- Little Egret 1, Shelduck 3, Mallard 14, Wigeon 11, Teal 68, Goosander 5, Lapwing 55, Coot 6, Moorhen 9, Kingfisher 1, Grey Wagtail 1, Black Headed Gull 26, Common Gull 6, Yellowhammer 30+.
Old Moor - Sunday 17th January
I made my way to the Wader Scrape hide for the roost tonight. The ice level had increased on the Wader Scrape to 95% which had moved the roosting Goosanders onto the Mere, a great count of 58 birds were seen along with 5 Goldeneye. The Ruff was still present. Roosting in the willows were 49
Cormorants and 5 Little Egrets. A Goldcrest was in a small gorse bush nearly under the hide.
My weekend started early, I arrived at the Wader Scrape hide at 07.45 on Saturday morning hoping to see birds leaving the roost. Some Goosanders had probably left when I arrived but I counted a reasonable 32 birds. The Cormorants were more lazy and the sun was up when they started to leave, a great sight as 27 left together, final count was 47. I couldn't see any Little Egrets in the trees but eventually 4 left and made a quick dash onto the River Dearne. The weather was cold and dry with a clear blue sky, the temperature was hovering about freezing which meant a lot of ice. The Main Marsh was 95% ice and on the only free water 24 Shovelers were snoozing. The Wader Scrape was 50% ice but the Mere was ice free. On the Mere were 4 female Goldeneye and the wintering Ruff. I had a walk round to the Reedbeds where there were another 16 Shoveler and also a Water Rail calling.
In the late afternoon I returned to the Reedbeds hoping to see a Bittern, no such luck. However I was rewarded with at least 5 Cetti's Warblers, 3 singing males and a further 2 calling. 2 birds were seen chasing each other through the reeds. The snow had started to fall when I was leaving.
Bolton Ings - Sunday 17th January
The snow had stopped but had put a couple of inches down. I wandered onto Bolton Ings to count the wildfowl etc. as today was WeBS count day. The Western pool was 95% ice and held very few birds, the Eastern pool was 50% ice and counting was a little easier as none of the birds were in the reeds. Fairly quiet today with no real highlights although 22 Pochard were added to the International count. Full list :- Grey Heron 1, Little Egret 1, Mute Swan 8, Great Crested Grebe 1, Little Grebe 4, Mallard 45, Teal 20, Gadwall 4, Shoveler 2, Pochard 22 (12 drakes, 10 ducks), Tufted Duck 30, Goldeneye 3, Goosander 4, Coot 174, Moorhen 3, Lapwing c100, Snipe 8, Black Headed Gull 71, Common Gull 2, Barn Owl 1, Green Woodpecker 1, Grey Wagtail 1, Kingfisher 1, Skylark 1, Meadow Pipit 1.
Adwick Washland - Sunday 17th January
Sunday afternoon I called in at Adwick to do the count, even more ice here, 99%. Many of the birds have moved out but I managed to see the folowing:- Little Egret 1, Shelduck 3, Mallard 14, Wigeon 11, Teal 68, Goosander 5, Lapwing 55, Coot 6, Moorhen 9, Kingfisher 1, Grey Wagtail 1, Black Headed Gull 26, Common Gull 6, Yellowhammer 30+.
Old Moor - Sunday 17th January
I made my way to the Wader Scrape hide for the roost tonight. The ice level had increased on the Wader Scrape to 95% which had moved the roosting Goosanders onto the Mere, a great count of 58 birds were seen along with 5 Goldeneye. The Ruff was still present. Roosting in the willows were 49
Cormorants and 5 Little Egrets. A Goldcrest was in a small gorse bush nearly under the hide.
Wintersett Record Breaking Gull Roost - 17th Jan 2016
An awesome record breaking roost tonight at
Wintersett produced a total of 3,600 Herring Gulls which exceeds the previous
highest of 3,500 in January 1990. GBB gulls were at a modest 228 birds.
It also produced exceptional numbers of
other great birds, with an exceptional influx of Caspian Gulls. Proceedings
began with a 1st winter Caspian Gull on the Country Park at 14.55
followed by a third winter bird there at 15.15. Soon after, the juvenile
Kumliens Gull was found on the Top Res and this was joined later on by the juv
Glaucous Gull.
Another three 1st winter Caspian
Gulls were picked up on the Country Park between 16.00 and 16.20 hrs, bringing
the total there to a record 5 birds (4 x 1st w and a 3rd w). As the
evening drew to a close a 2nd winter Iceland Gull was found on the
Top Res, with a 1st winter bird found on the Country Park at 16.50.
1st w Caspian
Wintersett WeBS January 2016
Wintersett Area WeBS total for January 2016 NB Ice WRes 2%, CHRes 0, ACP 0,
Mute Swan 27, Canada Goose 217, Greylag Goose 114, Cormorant 7,
Great Crested Grebe 35, Coot 425, Moorhen 12, Mallard 69, Gadwall 108,
Wigeon 255, Teal 3, Goldeneye 44, Tufted Duck 231, Pochard 168 (133m, 35f), Goosander 9, Grey Heron 6 and Lapwing 120.
Mute Swan 27, Canada Goose 217, Greylag Goose 114, Cormorant 7,
Great Crested Grebe 35, Coot 425, Moorhen 12, Mallard 69, Gadwall 108,
Wigeon 255, Teal 3, Goldeneye 44, Tufted Duck 231, Pochard 168 (133m, 35f), Goosander 9, Grey Heron 6 and Lapwing 120.
Newmillerdam WeBS 17 January 2016
About 80% of the lake covered with ice.
Black-headed gull 127, mallard 194, Canada goose 7, mute swan 6 (2 adult, 4 young), coot 30, tufted duck 14, great crested grebe 4, common gull 2, moorhen 10, goosander 9, kingfisher 1, grey heron 1, little grebe 1, greylag goose 1.
Flock of about 50 pink-feet geese over at 9.35 flying north.
Black-headed gull 127, mallard 194, Canada goose 7, mute swan 6 (2 adult, 4 young), coot 30, tufted duck 14, great crested grebe 4, common gull 2, moorhen 10, goosander 9, kingfisher 1, grey heron 1, little grebe 1, greylag goose 1.
Flock of about 50 pink-feet geese over at 9.35 flying north.
Walton Hall WeBS January 2016
The WeBS totals for Waton Hall at 10.45 - 11.00hrs. NB .The lake was 90% ICE
Mallard 10, Coot 119, Tufted Duck 7, Moorhen 3, Little Grebe 4, Mute Swan 2, Cormorant 1, Grey Heron 1. Pochard 7 (4m + 3f).
Mallard 10, Coot 119, Tufted Duck 7, Moorhen 3, Little Grebe 4, Mute Swan 2, Cormorant 1, Grey Heron 1. Pochard 7 (4m + 3f).
Wintersett 17.01.16
5cms SNOW, 1-2 degrees with 8/8 cloud and a light south easterly.
ICE: Anglers CP - 0, WRes 2%, CHRes 0, Walton Hall 90%
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 north bank, Little Grebe 4 + 5 ACP, Snipe 1 + 2 ACP. Fieldfare 36 in HP Lane field.
Steve Denny will post the Gull Roosts blog later this evening. It's worth waiting for!
ICE: Anglers CP - 0, WRes 2%, CHRes 0, Walton Hall 90%
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 north bank, Little Grebe 4 + 5 ACP, Snipe 1 + 2 ACP. Fieldfare 36 in HP Lane field.
Steve Denny will post the Gull Roosts blog later this evening. It's worth waiting for!
Carlton Marsh
Overnight snow gave a covering of about 1 inch. Most of the wetland was frozen over with a thin layer of ice, which meant that most of the wildfowl were either on the dyke out of sight or had left. However, A pair of Shoveler and a Goldeneye duck were still present along with Water Rail, Grey Wagtail and 3 Snipe. Also of note were 2 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing, 3 Siskin, Redpoll and Buzzard.
C200 Pink Feet flew north at 09.28hrs followed by another c200 west at 09.58hrs.
Saturday, 16 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roost 16.01.16
0-3 degrees, very cold, frosty and sunny start but clouded over by 10.00 with a light south westerly.
Wintersett Res: New in today were: Shoveler 2 and Teal 1 + 2 ACP.
Anglers CP: Little Grebe 5 + 4 WRes, Water Rail 1, Wigeon 237. Keith Bannister saw a Peregrine fly SE. The Barn Owl showed at 15.40hrs.
Gull Roosts: The 1st W Caspian Gull was on ACP at 15.55hrs. A gas gun firing in the back fields made the birds skittish and no further notables were seen here.
Kev Denny on Wintersett Res had the dark-headed, juvenile Glaucous Gull at 16.20hrs, closely followed by an adult Yellow-legged Gull, topped off with a juvenile Iceland Gull at 16.30hrs.
Wintersett Res: New in today were: Shoveler 2 and Teal 1 + 2 ACP.
Anglers CP: Little Grebe 5 + 4 WRes, Water Rail 1, Wigeon 237. Keith Bannister saw a Peregrine fly SE. The Barn Owl showed at 15.40hrs.
Gull Roosts: The 1st W Caspian Gull was on ACP at 15.55hrs. A gas gun firing in the back fields made the birds skittish and no further notables were seen here.
Kev Denny on Wintersett Res had the dark-headed, juvenile Glaucous Gull at 16.20hrs, closely followed by an adult Yellow-legged Gull, topped off with a juvenile Iceland Gull at 16.30hrs.
Hartcliff Hill
A very steady 4 hours around the hill, but a pleasure due to the lovely conditions: a very light wind, cold and clear. Highlight was a Merlin which bombed NW at 11.00 before returning with prey in talons about 25 mins later. Also of note c. 140 Golden Plover, c. 60 Fieldfare, single Raven, and single Great Black-backed gull S with 2 Herring Gulls. Frustratingly, an large and obviously interesting flock of finches/buntings are blogging about Bella Vista rendering plant, which is strictly private property. At least 11 Yellowhammers were seen but they're very mobile. If time allows best ploy would be watch with the scope from the path on the N side. One for next time!
Cheers
Russ
http://shapesthatsometimesfly.blogspot.co.uk/
Cheers
Russ
http://shapesthatsometimesfly.blogspot.co.uk/
Friday, 15 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 15.01.16
0 - 2 degrees, very cold and frosty, but sunny with a light to moderate westerly breeze.
Anglers CP: Pink-footed Goose 2, Greylag 111. The Barn Owl showed in box this morning and at 16.00hrs.
Wintersett Res: 3 Cetti's Warblers were heard this morning - one north bank, one Botany marsh, and one, for the first time, south west bank. Water Rail 3 west bank and 1 boathouse reeds. Willow Tit 1 south east corner and 1 west bank. Grey Wagtail 1.
Wintersett Res Roost: per Kev Denny. A stream of large gulls for a few minutes at 16.40hrs, but that was all. The usual all white Black-headed Gull with black primaries was in.
Anglers CP Roost held good numbers of big gulls. John Mcloughlin found a new 1st W Caspian Gull at 16.10hrs. The 4thW Caspian Gull was in at 16.20hrs and the juvenile Kumlien's Gull was in at 16.30hrs.
Of interest: @Donnybirding tweeted - the dark-headed juvenile Glaucous Gull left Hampole tip WSW at 16.20hrs.
Anglers CP: Pink-footed Goose 2, Greylag 111. The Barn Owl showed in box this morning and at 16.00hrs.
Wintersett Res: 3 Cetti's Warblers were heard this morning - one north bank, one Botany marsh, and one, for the first time, south west bank. Water Rail 3 west bank and 1 boathouse reeds. Willow Tit 1 south east corner and 1 west bank. Grey Wagtail 1.
Wintersett Res Roost: per Kev Denny. A stream of large gulls for a few minutes at 16.40hrs, but that was all. The usual all white Black-headed Gull with black primaries was in.
Anglers CP Roost held good numbers of big gulls. John Mcloughlin found a new 1st W Caspian Gull at 16.10hrs. The 4thW Caspian Gull was in at 16.20hrs and the juvenile Kumlien's Gull was in at 16.30hrs.
Of interest: @Donnybirding tweeted - the dark-headed juvenile Glaucous Gull left Hampole tip WSW at 16.20hrs.
Carlton Marsh
Today's best birds were; Woodcock, Buzzard hunting down a Rabbit, but missed it! Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, WillowTit, Shoveler pair, Tufted Duck 1m 2f, Water Rail, 2 Little Grebe and the Goldeneye female.
As dusk approached 28 Yellow Buntings came to roost and a Barn owl was hunting over the marsh.
Cudworth birder J. B. Baranowski gave me this bird ring earlier in the week, here are the details that have just arrived from the BTO
Ring Number: MA10096 Raven (Corvus corax)
This bird was ringed by Sorby Breck RG as age nestling, sex unknown on 26-Apr-2015 09:30:00 at Crowden, Derbyshire, UK
OS Map reference SK0799 accuracy 0, co-ordinates 53deg 29min N 1deg 54min W accuracy 0.
J.B. Baranowski
As dusk approached 28 Yellow Buntings came to roost and a Barn owl was hunting over the marsh.
Cudworth birder J. B. Baranowski gave me this bird ring earlier in the week, here are the details that have just arrived from the BTO
Ring Number: MA10096 Raven (Corvus corax)
This bird was ringed by Sorby Breck RG as age nestling, sex unknown on 26-Apr-2015 09:30:00 at Crowden, Derbyshire, UK
OS Map reference SK0799 accuracy 0, co-ordinates 53deg 29min N 1deg 54min W accuracy 0.
It
was found on 18-Oct-2015 time unknown at Langsett Moors, South
Yorkshire, UK
OS
Map reference SE1800 accuracy 0, co-ordinates 53deg 30min N 1deg 44min W
accuracy 0.
Finding
condition:
Freshly dead in pristine condition
It
was found 175 days after it was ringed, 12 km from the ringing site, direction
E.
J.B. Baranowski
And another.....
Barnsley Ringing Group annual ringing visit to Gibraltar Point Observatory, Skeggy, autumn 1989
Left to right - Martin Wells, Mark Watson, Brian Penistone, Cliff Gorman (not changed), Steve Davies, Dave Smith (hmm..) and me with hair!
The Edge 15.01.16
A good start to the day with two Little Egret , briefly in the dyke across from the Old Moor Tavern, before flying off towards Old Moor Rspb.
Wombwell Ings - 50% ice cover made the waterbird count straightforward but accurately assessing the numbers of Golden Plover and Lapwing was difficult due to these two species foraging widely over the Ings. Present were 2 Mute Swan, 64 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 32 Wigeon, 18 Mallard, 7 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 1m+1f Pochard, 2 Goosander, 1 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret, 15 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 125+ Golden Plover, 117+ Lapwing, 1 Ruff, 1 Kestrel, 116 BH Gull, 2 Common Gull and a flock of 19 Pied Wagtail feeding directly in front of the hide.
Bolton Ings -
On the open water were 5 Mute Swan,14m+3f Pochard, 17 Tufted Duck, 11 Mallard, 10 Teal, 5 Gadwall, 3m+1f Goosander, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 3 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 135 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 35 BH Gull and 2 Common Gull. Also present were 4 Cormorant, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Jay, 1 Mistle Thrush and 1 Willow Tit.
Wombwell Ings - 50% ice cover made the waterbird count straightforward but accurately assessing the numbers of Golden Plover and Lapwing was difficult due to these two species foraging widely over the Ings. Present were 2 Mute Swan, 64 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 32 Wigeon, 18 Mallard, 7 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 1m+1f Pochard, 2 Goosander, 1 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret, 15 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 125+ Golden Plover, 117+ Lapwing, 1 Ruff, 1 Kestrel, 116 BH Gull, 2 Common Gull and a flock of 19 Pied Wagtail feeding directly in front of the hide.
Bolton Ings -
On the open water were 5 Mute Swan,14m+3f Pochard, 17 Tufted Duck, 11 Mallard, 10 Teal, 5 Gadwall, 3m+1f Goosander, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 3 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 135 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 35 BH Gull and 2 Common Gull. Also present were 4 Cormorant, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Jay, 1 Mistle Thrush and 1 Willow Tit.
Thursday, 14 January 2016
Wintersett Gull Roost 14.01.16
2 degrees with 8/8 cloud and light sleet this morning. Dry this afternoon but with a strong north westerly.
Anglers CP: An adult Peregrine flew west at 15.15hrs and is a new bird for the year. The Barn Owl showed at 16.07 hrs
ACP Roost held only 20 big gulls by 16.00hrs! The writing was on the wall, and so it proved, with a very poor roost and no notables seen. Only a few birds were noted going to WRes. per Pete Smith.
Anglers CP: An adult Peregrine flew west at 15.15hrs and is a new bird for the year. The Barn Owl showed at 16.07 hrs
ACP Roost held only 20 big gulls by 16.00hrs! The writing was on the wall, and so it proved, with a very poor roost and no notables seen. Only a few birds were noted going to WRes. per Pete Smith.
Image from the olden days........
Been sorting through some old slides and this one of Martin Wells "flicking" for Swifts at Lundwood Sewage Works. He's been there that long the damp has crept up the jeans! This was early 80's when we used to catch around 1000 Swifts a year.
Anyone out there offering a caption?
The Edge 14.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Good start (on the first really cold day of winter) with a Goldcrest being the first bird seen on Highgate . The path is getting worse due to 'poaching' by horses, particularly around the hide. Present were 2 Mute Swan, 103 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 37 Wigeon, 11 Mallard, 7m Pochard, 7 Teal, 5 Shoveler. 4 Tufted Duck, 2 Goosander, 4 Red Legged Partridge, 2 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret ( +1 in the dyke across from Old Moor Tavern ), 17 Coot, 3 Moorhen, 207 Golden Plover, 155 Lapwing, 1 Ruff, 88 BH Gull, 4 Common Gull and 3 Fieldfare.
Bolton Ings -On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 15 Pochard, 13 Tufted Duck, 7 Mallard, 2m Goosander, 1f Goldeneye, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 142 Coot, 145 BH Gull and 9 Common Gull. Also present were 2 Cormorant, 4 Moorhen and 1 Bullfinch.
Bolton Ings -On the open water were 2 Mute Swan, 15 Pochard, 13 Tufted Duck, 7 Mallard, 2m Goosander, 1f Goldeneye, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 142 Coot, 145 BH Gull and 9 Common Gull. Also present were 2 Cormorant, 4 Moorhen and 1 Bullfinch.
Wednesday, 13 January 2016
Carlton Marsh
The female Goldeneye was still on the Wader Scrape with a pair of Shoveler and 2 Cormorants. Also of note Buzzard, Siskin, Redpoll, 2 Willow Tits, Green & Great Spot Woodpecker, Goldcrest, 2 Linnets SW.
At dusk 2 Tawny Owls, 3 Water Rails and a Little Owl were calling (Dave Standish)
At dusk 2 Tawny Owls, 3 Water Rails and a Little Owl were calling (Dave Standish)
Wintersett Gull Roosts 13.01.16
4 degrees, cool but sunny with a light southerly.
Anglers CP: A Dunlin flew west at 14.25hrs.
Anglers CP Gull Roost was brilliant this afternoon, with big numbers of large gulls arriving steadily throughout, allowing time for effective scanning. First in was the usual 4th W Caspian Gull at 15.40hrs. Next find was the juvenile Kumlien's Gull at 16.05hrs. The dark-headed juvenile Glaucous Gull was in at 16.30hrs, followed by the 2nd W Caspian at 16,35hrs.
Wintersett Res.Roost was watched by Kev Denny who reported poor numbers of big gulls with no notables.
Anglers CP: A Dunlin flew west at 14.25hrs.
Anglers CP Gull Roost was brilliant this afternoon, with big numbers of large gulls arriving steadily throughout, allowing time for effective scanning. First in was the usual 4th W Caspian Gull at 15.40hrs. Next find was the juvenile Kumlien's Gull at 16.05hrs. The dark-headed juvenile Glaucous Gull was in at 16.30hrs, followed by the 2nd W Caspian at 16,35hrs.
Wintersett Res.Roost was watched by Kev Denny who reported poor numbers of big gulls with no notables.
Ingbirchworth - Gunthwaite
Spicer House Lane (Royd Moor Hill end) - 1 Greenland White-fronted Goose, 211 Greylag Geese, c150 Black-headed Gulls and 1 Raven.
An influx of Coots was noted at both Ingbirchworth and Scout Dike Reservoirs.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 8 Mallards, 9 Tufted Ducks, 9 Pheasants, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Moorhen and 7 Coots (has been 2 since 1st Jan.).
Scout Dike Reservoir - 67 Canada Geese, 55 Mallards, 1 drake Goosander, 1 drake Tufted Duck, 2 Moorhens, 12 Coots (has been 3/4 since 1st Jan.) and 1 Grey Wagtail.
Gunthwaite Dam - 52 Teal, 20 Mallards, 1 drake Shoveler, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Little Grebes, 6 Moorhens and 5 Coots.
An influx of Coots was noted at both Ingbirchworth and Scout Dike Reservoirs.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir - 8 Mallards, 9 Tufted Ducks, 9 Pheasants, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Moorhen and 7 Coots (has been 2 since 1st Jan.).
Scout Dike Reservoir - 67 Canada Geese, 55 Mallards, 1 drake Goosander, 1 drake Tufted Duck, 2 Moorhens, 12 Coots (has been 3/4 since 1st Jan.) and 1 Grey Wagtail.
Gunthwaite Dam - 52 Teal, 20 Mallards, 1 drake Shoveler, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Little Grebes, 6 Moorhens and 5 Coots.
Tuesday, 12 January 2016
Wintersett + Gull Roost 12.01.16
4 degrees, cool with 5/8 cloud, sunshine and a light north westerly.
Wintersett Res: 3 Shoveler were new for the year. Willow Tit 1 pair SE corner + 1 Willow Wood. Buzzard 1 over, Kingfisher 1 and Cetti's Warbler 1 male west bank + 1 Botany marsh.
Anglers CP: Siskin 10, Teal 10 and Barn Owl at 16.15hrs.
ACP Roost: The Gulls were very slow coming in tonight. The only notable bird was the 4thW Caspian Gull, in at 15.40hrs. The Hampole flock arrived at dark - so frustrating again!
Wintersett Res: 3 Shoveler were new for the year. Willow Tit 1 pair SE corner + 1 Willow Wood. Buzzard 1 over, Kingfisher 1 and Cetti's Warbler 1 male west bank + 1 Botany marsh.
Anglers CP: Siskin 10, Teal 10 and Barn Owl at 16.15hrs.
ACP Roost: The Gulls were very slow coming in tonight. The only notable bird was the 4thW Caspian Gull, in at 15.40hrs. The Hampole flock arrived at dark - so frustrating again!
The Edge 12.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Present were 2 Mute Swan, 62 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag, 87 Wigeon, 10 Mallard, 3 Teal, 3 Tufted Duck, 2m Pochard, 2 Shoveler, 2 Goosander, 1 Cormorant, 2 Little Egret, 3 Grey Heron, 14 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 159 Lapwing, 134 Golden Plover, 1 Ruff, 137 BH Gull, 3 Common Gull, 1 Kestrel, 1 Mistle Thrush and 1 Kingfisher ( on the Bulling Dyke ).
TPT-10+ Long Tailed Tits, 1 Redwing and 3 Redpoll.
Bolton Ings - On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 20 Tufted Duck, 15 Mallard, 2m+2f Pochard, 2m+1f Goosander, 2m+2f Goldeneye, 3 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 136 Coot, 26 BH Gull, 7 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull. Also present were 9 Canada Geese, 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 30 Lapwing over and 2m Green Woodpecker.
TPT-10+ Long Tailed Tits, 1 Redwing and 3 Redpoll.
Bolton Ings - On the open water were 3 Mute Swan, 20 Tufted Duck, 15 Mallard, 2m+2f Pochard, 2m+1f Goosander, 2m+2f Goldeneye, 3 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 136 Coot, 26 BH Gull, 7 Common Gull and 1 Herring Gull. Also present were 9 Canada Geese, 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 30 Lapwing over and 2m Green Woodpecker.
Barnsley Birdwatchers Group
On Monday 18th January 7pm Colin and Linda Graham will be giving a presentation on 'The Magic of the Isles of Scilly' at Highstone Farm - All welcome.
Directions to Highstone Farm (S70 6NN): From the M1, junction 37, take the A628 (Dodworth Road) to Barnsley. At the first main cross road and traffic lights turn right onto the A6133 (Broadway Road). At the 2nd set of traffic lights turn right onto Keresforth Hall Road, go past Locke Park car park and take the 2nd left (sharp turn) on to Race Common Lane (a no through road). Highstone Farm is approximately 0.3 mile on the right.
Directions to Highstone Farm (S70 6NN): From the M1, junction 37, take the A628 (Dodworth Road) to Barnsley. At the first main cross road and traffic lights turn right onto the A6133 (Broadway Road). At the 2nd set of traffic lights turn right onto Keresforth Hall Road, go past Locke Park car park and take the 2nd left (sharp turn) on to Race Common Lane (a no through road). Highstone Farm is approximately 0.3 mile on the right.
Monday, 11 January 2016
Carlton Marsh
This afternoon; Goldeneye duck and Great Crested Grebe on the Wader Scrape. Also present Kingfisher, Buzzard, Willow Tit, Mistle Thrush 2 and Barn Owl hunting the Western Meadow from 15.20hrs. (D. Standish/R. Laverack)
Wintersett + Gull Roost 11.01.16
4 degrees, damp and grey, 8/8 with a light south westerly.
Anglers CP: Green Woodpecker 1, Redpoll 1 south and Barn Owl 2 at 16.35hrs.
ACP Gull Roost was disappointing tonight, with birds arriving very late and no notables picked up.
Wintersett Roost wasn't checked, but lots of large gulls were flying from there to ACP after dark.
Anglers CP: Green Woodpecker 1, Redpoll 1 south and Barn Owl 2 at 16.35hrs.
ACP Gull Roost was disappointing tonight, with birds arriving very late and no notables picked up.
Wintersett Roost wasn't checked, but lots of large gulls were flying from there to ACP after dark.
The Edge 11.01.16
Wombwell Ings - Present were 2 Mute Swan, 135 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 48 Wigeon, 16 Mallard, 10m+2f Pochard, 6 Shoveler, 2m+2f Goosander, 3 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Cormorant, 2 Little Egret, 2 Grey Heron, 3 Red Legged Partridge, 22 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 169 Golden Plover, 167 Lapwing, 1 Ruff, 191+ BH Gull, 1 Common Gull and 1 Fox.
TPT - 6+ Siskin, 1 Jay and 1 Kingfisher.
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 2 Mute Swan, 10m+4f Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, 6 Mallard, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 1m+1f Goosander, 2 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 135 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 16 BH Gull, 5 Common Gull and 3 Herrring Gull. Also present were 14 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 3 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 16 Lapwing over, 3 Snipe, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Kingfisher, and 1 Mistle Thrush.
TPT - 6+ Siskin, 1 Jay and 1 Kingfisher.
Bolton Ings - On the eastern pool were 2 Mute Swan, 10m+4f Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, 6 Mallard, 1m+2f Goldeneye, 1m+1f Goosander, 2 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 135 Coot, 1 Moorhen, 16 BH Gull, 5 Common Gull and 3 Herrring Gull. Also present were 14 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 3 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 16 Lapwing over, 3 Snipe, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Kingfisher, and 1 Mistle Thrush.
Sunday, 10 January 2016
Carlton Marsh
Special birds for us today were drake & duck Goldeneye and Great Crested Grebe. The first GCG since May 2010. (Rod Heeley/Ralph Hibbert)
Photos by Richard Laverack
Wintersett + Gull Roosts 10.01.16
A cooler 3 - 5 degrees with sunny spells and a light south westerly.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 male in boathouse reeds,
Anglers CP: Cormorant 21, Buzzard 1 + 1 over Wres., Siskin 1, Barn Owl 1 and Woodcock 1 over at dark.
Excellent Gull Roosts again tonight. The hide on Anglers was packed out and Steve Denny toughed it out on Wintersett Res. Fortunately, notables appeared on both waters.
A 2nd W Caspian Gull was on Anglers CP from 13.55 - 14.03 hrs.
A 2nd W Mediterranean Gull was on WRes at 15.05hrs (new bird for the year).
A 1st W Yellow-legged Gull was on WRes at 15.30hrs.
Pete Smith picked up the juvenile Kumlien's Gull on ACP at 15.30. After bathing, it left for WRes at 15.42hrs.
Graham Speight picked up a 4th W Caspian Gull on ACP at 15.55hrs.
Area Totals: Herring Gull 1470, Great Black-backed Gull 295 , Lesser Black-backed Gull 11, 57 Goosander & 47 Goldeneye.
Wintersett Res: Cetti's Warbler 1 male in boathouse reeds,
Anglers CP: Cormorant 21, Buzzard 1 + 1 over Wres., Siskin 1, Barn Owl 1 and Woodcock 1 over at dark.
Excellent Gull Roosts again tonight. The hide on Anglers was packed out and Steve Denny toughed it out on Wintersett Res. Fortunately, notables appeared on both waters.
A 2nd W Caspian Gull was on Anglers CP from 13.55 - 14.03 hrs.
A 2nd W Mediterranean Gull was on WRes at 15.05hrs (new bird for the year).
A 1st W Yellow-legged Gull was on WRes at 15.30hrs.
Pete Smith picked up the juvenile Kumlien's Gull on ACP at 15.30. After bathing, it left for WRes at 15.42hrs.
Graham Speight picked up a 4th W Caspian Gull on ACP at 15.55hrs.
Area Totals: Herring Gull 1470, Great Black-backed Gull 295 , Lesser Black-backed Gull 11, 57 Goosander & 47 Goldeneye.
MoreVideo of Kumliens Gull at Wintersett Jan 2016 YouTube version http://youtu.be/K9OW3SCEoCQ
 |
| The Kumlien's black face is an artefact of poor digiscope gear. It's real, but not as contrasted in the field. Steve Denny |
 |
| Juvenile Kumlien's Gull WRes SDenny |
Wilthorpe Marsh 10/1/16.
Peregrine imm. showed well in good light, Jack Snipe 2 in a regular patch, Buzzard 2. Stubble field had 7 Grey Partridge, 6 Skylarks and a flock of 42 Yellow Buntings. A brief look on the Fleets Dam yesterday had 2 Parakeets, 1 GS Pecker, 3 GC Grebes, 6+ Common Gull.
FIRECREST AT SILKSTONE SW TODAY - 10-01-16, 11.45am
A few manual focus grainy record shots of my first Firecrest in South Yorkshire (note little orange spot at back of head on next to last shot). Also had a brief view of a single Waxwing at Morrisons Carpark, Dearne Valley at 13.30
Saturday, 9 January 2016
Wintersett + Exciting Gull Roost 09.01.15
7 - 9 degrees, occasional showers with 8/8 cloud and a light south easterly.
Wintersett Res: Siskin 2 over, Water Rail 1 boathouse reeds and 2 west bank. Cetti's Warbler 1 alarming in NW reed mace + 1 male west bank. Little Grebe 4 + 5 ACP, Canada Goose 2 and Grey Partridge 3.
Cold Hiendley Res: Grey Wagtail 1.
Anglers CP: Cormorant 13 + 2 WRes. 70 Redwing were in Santingley fields.
The ACP Gull Roost got off to a slow start and not many large gulls were in early. The first notable was the usual 4th W Caspian Gull at 15.25hrs. At 15.50hrs a cracking ,dark, juvenile Kumlien's Gull was picked up by Pete Smith. The other observers, Steve and Kev Denny and Brian Leeman got onto the bird quickly and a few photos and a short video were obtained in the fading light. (See link for video below). After that, big numbers of large gulls started to come in. Next up was a 2nd W Caspian Gull at 16.00hrs, followed by a new, pale, juvenile Glaucous Gull at 16.15hrs. After the last 3 nights of frustrating gull roosts, persistence was finally rewarded with an amazing roost tonight.
Kumlien's video at https://twitter.com/StevieD131/media
Wintersett Res: Siskin 2 over, Water Rail 1 boathouse reeds and 2 west bank. Cetti's Warbler 1 alarming in NW reed mace + 1 male west bank. Little Grebe 4 + 5 ACP, Canada Goose 2 and Grey Partridge 3.
Cold Hiendley Res: Grey Wagtail 1.
Anglers CP: Cormorant 13 + 2 WRes. 70 Redwing were in Santingley fields.
The ACP Gull Roost got off to a slow start and not many large gulls were in early. The first notable was the usual 4th W Caspian Gull at 15.25hrs. At 15.50hrs a cracking ,dark, juvenile Kumlien's Gull was picked up by Pete Smith. The other observers, Steve and Kev Denny and Brian Leeman got onto the bird quickly and a few photos and a short video were obtained in the fading light. (See link for video below). After that, big numbers of large gulls started to come in. Next up was a 2nd W Caspian Gull at 16.00hrs, followed by a new, pale, juvenile Glaucous Gull at 16.15hrs. After the last 3 nights of frustrating gull roosts, persistence was finally rewarded with an amazing roost tonight.
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| Kumlien's Gull juvenile ACP SDenny |
may be a bit clearer here youtu.be/IfL1bzDA8gk
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