Durham Birding

[Scuzz]

A few local birds from today, good to see the swallows back.

[NeilF]

Scored a century of local patch birds for the year with a Grasshopper Warbler near Birtley this afternoon.
Not bad going for a relatively small area, other observers have had ten extra's (still got the cricket theme going here) including today's Osprey :t:

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Back home to Durham yesterday evening after my unforgetable trip to Mull.
If you would like to read my report you can do so here: http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=94440&page=2

[jason-t-71]

Spoonbill at the Calor Gas pool tonight. Was fast asleep when I left at about 8.15!

[IanF]

Spoonbill at the Calor Gas pool tonight. Was fast asleep when I left at about 8.15!

Still present this morning. On Back Saltholme at 8.30 am - viewed from Petroplus.

[ian hamilton]

3 Tawny Owl singing from nth/sth hylton,Grasshopper Warbler still reeling
from queens road southwick also another reeling bird at colima ave nth hylton
near the retail park and a singing Lesser Whitethroat at asda,washington

Barmston Pond;0450-0550.
2 Little Grebe
5 adult Mute Swan
2 Canada Goose
6 Mallard
m&f Shoveler
m&f Tufted Duck
4 Coot
3-4 Moorhen
3 Blackcap
2 Willow Wrbler
2 Chiffchaff
male Chaffinch

thro nth.hylton
3 Mallard
Shelduck
Redshank
Black-Headed Gull
Herring Gull
Lesser Black-Backed Gull
Woodpigeon
Skylark
Wren
Dunnock
Robin
Blackbird
Song Thrush
2 Blackcap
7 Willow Warbler
Chiffchaff
Blue Tit
Magpie
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
House Sparrow
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Linnet

Blackcap,6 Willow Warbler and 3 Chiffchaff singing from southwick

[StevieEvans]

Excellent variety of species today, summer migrants really starting to pile in.

Best bird of today, was found by 2BF readers - they put me onto a stunning male Redstart flycatching along the hedgeline at NZ324477 - thanks guys :t: - i popped my head over the hedge well before the gate you mentioned & fluked a single Whimbrel feeding in that same field with 5Curlew - most probably the same Whimbrel was in the horse field west of the main pool an hour later.
Probably several birds undetected due to gusty breeze, but others around the RM's area included :-3 singing Willow Tit. Singles of singing Common & Lesser Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler(silent) & Yellow Wagtail. 2 reeling Grasshopper Warbler. Also 1 Little Ringed Plover & 1 Redpoll

Fencehouses area
2Buzzard moved south for over a mile, 3Sparrowhawk, 2 reeling Grasshopper Warbler, 5 male Common Whitethroat singing, Blackcap pair nest building

Hetton areas
Other local DBC members report 2 singing Cuckoos, (1 also heard yestday), 6Wheatear, 2Yellow Wagtail, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 brood of Coot young.

PS.
Does anyone know if the Saltholme kiddies play park is finished off yet ?

[andyg]

Hi andyg
As you will know, thats a Durham County Council owned site - best contact them.
If you can get in touch with the County Ecologist, Terry Coult, then he'll be well placed to advise, he's an expert on Otters - and its very much his local patch.:t:

Have you seen / heard of many Mink on the Browney there ?
I used to see them on & off, but they seemed to disappear when the Otters began to increase.

Always used to be / still is an excellent, compact, easily accessible birding site, especially when combined with the DWT reserve; although things always seem to be rosier when you look back.....the breeding Pied Flys & Tree Pipits of the early '90's, have sadly tailed off to next to nothing.....
cheers
Steve

Very detailed Mink info here:-
http://www.gct.org.uk/text03.asp?PageId=272

Sorry for the slow response but thanks for that Steve. Will be in touch with the county council.

[The Rev DA]

Hello to everyone - after following this forum for the last 4 years i decided to join today - first of all thanks to everyone who contributes and have put me on to some great finds over the years! THANKS
Great to have caught up with you Steve at Rainton and even better that you caught up with the Restart as well - even if i am geographically dyslexic and my directions wer'nt that clear!!
only other birds of note were a pair of blackcaps far side of Joes pond
will start posting from my local patch of Pelton /West Pelton Area
all the best David A

[MalR]

Hi, Steve.

I paid my first visit to Saltholme today. It didn't look as if the play area is finished yet. Certainly no kids playing in it, but two or three blokes standing around looking at the ground in a meaningful way.;)

Malcolm

[Rare Visitor]

Hi, Steve.

I paid my first visit to Saltholme today. It didn't look as if the play area is finished yet. Certainly no kids playing in it, but two or three blokes standing around looking at the ground in a meaningful way.;)

Malcolm

This is the Birders equivalent of pot & kettle, I mean none of us would stand around looking at anything in a meaningful way would we ;)

[Scuzz]

Called at the Bus Stop hide to check on the Avocets:

At least 18 Avocets on and around the pond, another guy counted 19 just before we arrived.
Other birds included canada geese, mute swan, oyster catcher, coot, redshank, lapwing and at least 3 LR Plover on the island.

[great bustard]

A speed look around the Chester Le Street area produced the following vague list....

Grey Wagtail
A soaring Buzzard
Sparrowhawk
Kestrel
Dipper
Gooseander
Mallard with 5 little baby dux

Houghton Gate had 3 pair of Shelduck acting territorial, LRP x1, 3 Redshank and Common Snipe. 5 Curlew and around 20 Lapwing.

[IanF]

Two Buzzard displaying over north side of A689 - Middle Swainston Plantation mid-afternoon. Two Sparrowhawk as well.

[StevieEvans]

Still present this morning. On Back Saltholme at 8.30 am - viewed from Petroplus.
reported to have headed off high in a north westerly direction during the morning . . . .

Sorry for the slow response but thanks for that Steve. Will be in touch with the county council.
you're welcome.


I paid my first visit to Saltholme today. It didn't look as if the play area is finished yet. Certainly no kids playing in it, but two or three blokes standing around looking at the ground in a meaningful way


Sounds like they're still making good progress then . . . .

[Donno]

Been reading this thread for a year or so now and most educational it's been too. Never posted before as I'm pretty new to this birding lark (very late starter) and despite enjoying the hobby I rarely see anything out of the ordinary that somebody hasn't already mentioned.
What has prompted me to post is my joy at spotting a pair of Redstart nest building in the field next to my house (in the Gaunless Valley opposite Cockfield). They've been here for 3 days now so fingers crossed that they will succeed. Sorry I cant give directions as the only place they can be seen is from my garden.

My local reserve is Low Barnes so if you see a geezer with black flat cap and grey beard that'll probably be me.

[StevieEvans]

Hello to everyone - after following this forum for the last 4 years i decided to join today - first of all thanks to everyone who contributes and have put me on to some great finds over the years! THANKS
Great to have caught up with you Steve at Rainton and even better that you caught up with the Restart as well - even if i am geographically dyslexic and my directions wer'nt that clear!!
only other birds of note were a pair of blackcaps far side of Joes pond
will start posting from my local patch of Pelton /West Pelton Area
all the best David A

Hello David
Hard to believe its 4 years . . . . but not to worry - If we keep our noses clean, then im sure we should be eligible for parole in another 3 or 4 . . . ;)

Not so sure about "geographically dyslexic" ! 3:-) - More like pin point precision id say :t: - How about changing your username to The Rev GPS ? o:D
Thanks again - despite being swamped in the things last Autumn, we only ever get the odd Spring passage bird. Its without doubt the best patch bird ive seen this year, taking my tally up to #126.

Dont think we hear too much from your neck 0' the woods . . . .
Look forward to reading your Local Patch reports.:t:


Been reading this thread for a year or so now and most educational it's been too. Never posted before as I'm pretty new to this birding lark (very late starter) and despite enjoying the hobby I rarely see anything out of the ordinary that somebody hasn't already mentioned.
What has prompted me to post is my joy at spotting a pair of Redstart nest building in the field next to my house (in the Gaunless Valley opposite Cockfield). They've been here for 3 days now so fingers crossed that they will succeed. Sorry I cant give directions as the only place they can be seen is from my garden.

My local reserve is Low Barnes so if you see a geezer with black flat cap and grey beard that'll probably be me.

Welcome to the thread - allways good to see new local patch birders joining in :t:
Our passage migrant Redstart just isnt quite as impressive as your territorial pair . . . . & a "garden tick" too :king:
Thats a nice part of the world - was up that way a couple of Summers back & saw Little Owl with young near an abandoned farm house.

Cheers Steve

[kramark]

Just been catching up on the forum and caught the bit about air guns, iv had a few run ins with two lads in esh winning they dress in camoflague and walk round the village with there guns, they started to walk round my housing estate so i challenged them when i saw them looking over a few garden fences with there guns out of there bags. all i got was told where to go and the police said they ok as long as guns are in bags. So the next time i saw them i just took the dog out and followed them at a safe distance to stop them shooting, no point in phoneing police as they would have legged it and i dont know there names but when i do find out there names il report them as everyday they walk round the village dressed as soliders,

[LizzieS]

i saw them looking over a few garden fences with there guns out of there bags.


If the guns are out in the open, don't hesitate - just call 999. :eek!:

Old Bill will have them sorted out in no time.

[Scuzz]

Weardale today:

Called at Frosterley first.
Chiffchaff, willow warbler, chaffinch, blue & great tits, grey & pied wagtail, dipper, mallard, kingfisher flew upstream and goosander + heron fly over.

On to Bollihope next, walked round the quary and upstream for about 3/4 mile:
Plenty red grouse & pheasant, chaffinch, willow warbler, lapwing, mipits, skylark, BH gulls, pied wagtail, single wheatear and 2 grey partridge flushed during my walk also plenty rabbits a few peacock butterflies and green tiger beetles.
No sign of ring ouzel :C.

[IanF]

Greatham Creek Saline Lagoon this evening - Common Sandpiper x1, Redshank x2, Little Ringed Plover x2, Avocet x9, Shelduck x2, Canada Goose x2, Oystercatcher x2 (mating), Lapwing x3, Curlew x2, Swallow x2, Pied Wagtail x2, Kestrel x1.

Spoonbill still present at 18.20 preening on west side of Back Saltholme.

[StevieEvans]

Just been catching up on the forum and caught the bit about air guns, iv had a few run ins with two lads in esh winning they dress in camoflague and walk round the village with there guns, they started to walk round my housing estate so i challenged them when i saw them looking over a few garden fences with there guns out of there bags. all i got was told where to go and the police said they ok as long as guns are in bags. So the next time i saw them i just took the dog out and followed them at a safe distance to stop them shooting, no point in phoneing police as they would have legged it and i dont know there names but when i do find out there names il report them as everyday they walk round the village dressed as soliders,

Hi
probably worth discussing this situation with the firearms people at Aykley Heads.
Nowadays, Im pretty sure anyone carrying a bagged air rifle in a public place must be able to prove they are heading to a location where they have the permission to shoot.
good luck.

[StevieEvans]

Houghton to Seaton Pond, via Warden Law

bizarre ratio of the Whitethroats toay.
1Common Whitethroat, 4Lesser Whitethroat, 1Wheatear, 65Sand Martin, 3Sparrowhawk, 2pr Grey Partridge, 2singing Willow Tit, 4 colonies of Linnets totalling @200 birds, 17Tree Sparrow, 1Common Buzzard

Seaton Ponds area
2pr Gadwall, prOystercatcher, prRedshank, prCurlew, multiple broods of young Lapwings, 12Common Snipe, 1Jack Snipe - hope it stays on till the bird race., 1Heron, 1M.Swan, 8Greylag, 5Dabchick, 1Yellow Wagtail, 2Lesser Whitethroat, 1Common Whitethroat, 2Grasshopper Warbler, 45Sand Martin, pr Stonechat

Latest Leks are in evelopes now !

[ian hamilton]

Grasshopper Warbler still reeling off queens road,southwick at 0430;

Timber Beach 0500-0605;
Grey Heron
4prs Shelduck
3 Mallard flew east
4 Redshank
Common Sandpiper
Herring Gull
Lesser Black-Backed Gull
Woodpigeon
Wren
Dunnock
Robin
Blackbird
Grasshopper Warbler reeling briefly from pallion
4 Willow Warbler
Chiffchaff
Blue Tit
Great Tit
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Linnet

[deansmith]

some pictures from visits over the last week.birds seen, chiffchaff, willow warbler, blue, long tailed and great tit, 2 gs woodpeckers around usual nest tree but no sign of any nesting yet. alot of butterflies about mainly peacock and a few frogs

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

A warm evening last night resulted in myself going to Houghton Gate. Very surprised to see a Ruff , as well as a Common Sandpiper.

Afterwards, a walk down a stream next to the Floater's Mill pub was productive, with a kingfisher flying down the river. Mallard duckings also present.

[IanF]

Saline Lagoon/Greatham Creek - 8.30 am - Avocet x12, Little Ringed Plover x2, Lapwing x3, Canada Goose x2, Shelduck x2, Oystercatcher x2, Redshank x2 plus Coot and Tufted Duck. Quite a few Swallow around including three pairs on with nest building gathering mud and debris from the north side of Saline Lagoon and Greatham Creek. Several Linnet, Sand Martin, Meadow Pipt and Skylark.

Plenty of birds around at RSPB Saltholme when it opened at 10.00 am on a lovely sunny morning.

Several highlights including the Spoonbill which was present on Back Saltholme. Looked as if it had roosted by the Mute Swans on the SE side. Once awake it was quite active moving around Back Saltholme pretty frequently. It was being harassed by the gulls and Lapwing. Apparently as I was leaving I was told that at around 11.00 am it took flight soaring up to the clouds before heading off northwards. Might yet come back again though.

When I arrived a Kestrel was hovering between the visitor centre and the start of the path to Saltholme Pools hide. It dived into the grass and grabbed a mouse or vole taking it to a fence post to eat - until it looked back and saw me and carried it off.

Loads of Yellow Wagtail around - mostly located in the vicinity of the Saltholme Ponds hide. 15-20 were along the approach along the track from the visitor centre mostly around the hide screens though several along the fences. Also very active hardly staying still for more than a few seconds. Another dozen or so were dotted around the grass on the north side of the hide. At least five flew low over the hide.

Five Little Ringed Plover around the Salholme Pools hide scrapes with Redshank, Pied Wagtail, Grey Heron with a broken wing, Gadwall, Cormorant, Little Grebe, Mute Swan, Canada Geese and Greylag Geese. Pochard, Teal, Wigeon and Tufted Duck a little more distant. Several Great Crested Grebe on the south side of the hide. Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Swallow and a few Sand Martin seen from the hide.

Paddys Pool hide and Wildlife Watchpoint were a little quieter though I didn't have time to stop there for long.

Photos: 1. Linnet - 2. Common Sandpiper - 3. Swallow - 4. Kestrel - 5. Yellow Wagtail

[IanF]

A few more photos from this morning.

I tried to convince myself it's a White Wagtail but I think it's just Pied.

1. Pied Wagtail - 2. Little Ringed Plover - 3. Avocet - 4. Swallow - 5. Common Sandpiper

[Rare Visitor]

Interesting that the Avocet numbers on Teeside reported by Ian lower today, perhaps they are the source of tonight's birds in Northumberland.

[StevieEvans]

A warm evening last night resulted in myself going to Houghton Gate. Very surprised to see a Ruff , as well as a Common Sandpiper.

Matthew
You've done well there with those 2 passage waders :t:

We have a grape-vine for local patch bird news in the Houghton area.
This is a simple SMS text, sent to multiple recipients - saves lots of time consuming fone calls, especially when its a bird on the move, like the recent fly-by Osprey - Word sharp gets out to local birders.

If you (or anyone else) is interested, then send me your mobile phone number.

(i had a rare bird-free day today, but some Houghton / Hetton birds included local firsts of Swift & Greenshank.
Now x4 Cuckoos , several Lesser Whitethroats & Grasshopper Warblers, Green Woodpecker, , x3 Common Sandpiper
Best though, a fly over Little Egret at Hetton)

Cheers
Steve 079 79 six zero 1231

[rokermartin]

A few more photos from this morning.

I tried to convince myself it's a White Wagtail but I think it's just Pied.

1. Pied Wagtail - 2. Little Ringed Plover - 3. Avocet - 4. Swallow - 5. AvocetsHi Ian you are right its just Pied Wagtail. Looks like a female.

[IanF]

Interesting that the Avocet numbers on Teeside reported by Ian lower today, perhaps they are the source of tonight's birds in Northumberland.

Could very well be though numbers do flucutate quite a bit. It was alomst low tide when I was there so it' possible some were on Seal Sands mud flats as well.

Hi Ian you are right its just Pied Wagtail. Looks like a female.

Thanks for the clarification Martin.

[Jamie D]

This evening there were atleast 21 Avocets at Teesmouth and I believe 26 is the highest count recently.

[IanF]

This evening there were atleast 21 Avocets at Teesmouth and I believe 26 is the highest count recently.

25 seen this morning!

Saline Lagoon x12, Tidal Pool x6, Greenabella Marsh x6, Back Saltholme x1.

Also on Back Saltholme up until at least 12.30 - Spoonbill x1, Black-tailed Godwit x9, Pink-footed Goose x9, Yellow wagtail c.12, Northern Wheatear x5. Turnstone x1 was the only other wader seen.

Photos: 1. Spoonbill - 2. Pink-footed Geese - 3. Swallow - 4. Yellow Wagtail - 5. Sand Martin

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Me,Mum, and Dad are going to go to Salthome pools tommorow.
Hopefully get the Spoonbill even if we don't might get Yellow Wagtail. Which would make 2 lifers in 1 day!
Can anyone tell me where is the best place to look for the Spoonbill, by that I mead which hide at Salthome? If you could help it would be greatly appreciated.

[IanF]

Me,Mum, and Dad are going to go to Salthome pools tommorow.
Hopefully get the Spoonbill even if we don't might get Yellow Wagtail. Which would make 2 lifers in 1 day!
Can anyone tell me where is the best place to look for the Spoonbill, by that I mead which hide at Salthome? If you could help it would be greatly appreciated.

Just head down to the Saltholme Pools Hide. It's been the best place for birds all week. You should pass loads of Yellow Wagtail on the way either side of the path but the field on the right has been giving the best views when I've been there with them often sitting on the fence itself and coming down to the pools. Also a few Wheatear there as well today. The grassland on the north (left) side of the hide also holds quite a few.

The Spoonbill is still present this evening on the right side of the hide on the far bank. It's been roosting/sleeping with a group of Mute Swans. Also with four Cormorant this morning.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Just head down to the Saltholme Pools Hide. It's been the best place for birds all week. You should pass loads of Yellow Wagtail on the way either side of the path but the field on the right has been giving the best views when I've been there with them often sitting on the fence itself and coming down to the pools. Also a few Wheatear there as well today. The grassland on the north (left) side of the hide also holds quite a few.

The Spoonbill is still present this evening on the right side of the hide on the far bank. It's been roosting/sleeping with a group of Mute Swans. Also with four Cormorant this morning.


Thanks very much Ian. I have never seen a Spoonbill before and was hoping it would stick around and it seems to be.:t: Thanks for the tips for Yellow Wagtail aswell. Your help is greatly appreciated.

[IanF]

Greatham Creek this evening. A Short-eared Owl struggling to hunt in the strong winds. In the end it gave in and settled on the grass fiercely staring down any cows that came too close! An hour later and it was still there when I left.

A couple of Whimbrel around tonight flying up and down Greatham Creek.

Otherwise pretty much the same as last night other than a few Sand Martin in addition to the Swallows and Shelduck c.50 on Tidal Pool.

Photos: 1. Whimbrel - 2. Whimbrel - 3. Short-eared Owl - 4. Avocets - 5. Avocet

[Rare Visitor]

Without giving any location specifics are many of the Avocets showing signs of settling down or pairing off or are they grouping together?

[StevieEvans]

Without giving any location specifics are many of the Avocets showing signs of settling down or pairing off or are they grouping together?

This info was recently posted :-

. . . <snip> . . . Looks like two nesting Avocets at Greatham Creek plus Lapwing and a Little Ringed Plover present again today. Shelduck, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Redshank and Curlew around the pool/island.

Hope it isnt too specific for you Alan . . . . It was for me . . .

[StevieEvans]

The honour of first Hobby of the year fell to Mick.H, who had a bird go through north, early this evening at Houghton Gate, also pair of passage LRP there. - Some folks have all the luck, i called in passing at 3:30 & saw nothing out of the ordinary.

I called in at a windy Rainton M's, hoping for Cuckoo; no such luck, but 2Common Sandpiper & pair of LRP (non-breeding site) were on the main pond.
Heard a singing Sedge Warbler, but very little else, 4Fieldfare, 2Kestrel etc
The female Shelduck has vanished, though hopefully she''ll re-appear in a couple of weeks with a few small followers . . .

An even windier Seaton Pond area, saw Barn Owl hunting at dusk, also fly overs from non-displaying Snipe & Woodcock. At least six reeling Grasshopper Warblers, also several Noctule bats & 2 Roe Deer.
The north pond now looking very wader friendly . . . .

------------------------------------

An interesting report was a White Stork on a rooftop close to the river at Durham City yesterday evening

[IanF]

Without giving any location specifics are many of the Avocets showing signs of settling down or pairing off or are they grouping together?

Yep! Despite Steve's concerns - they were featured on the local news again last week and in the local paper. Several pairs have settled around the area now.

[will@bill]

Down blast beach this morning 7 till 10
4 whitethroats, 4 grasshopper warblers reeling
1 ring ouzel on far side of stubble field and 2 more in hawthorn quarry
Sparrowhawk and green woodpecker over our heads
3 hares in the quarry

I was well pleased with yet another grasshopper warbler shot without a branch or leaf in front of IT:t: That warbler taming course i took over the winter from the durham bird club came in handy ;)

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Salthome Pools: 2 Little Gull, Yellow Wagtail, Gadwall, 2 Turnstone, 1 LRP, Redhshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Candada Geese, Greaylag Geese, Little Grebe, Woodpigeon, BHG, Herring Gull, Lapwing, Common Tern, Shelduck.

Seal Sands Area: 14c Avocet, Shelduck.

Waldridge Fell: Load of Willow Warbler, 2c Chiffchaff, Lapwing.

2 lifers with: Little Gull and Yellow Wagtail but no Spoonbill! Oh well, I'm sure I shall see one some time.

[whitburnmark]

A brief visit to do some work on the hide at Castle Lake this afternoon produced Corn Bunting singing from right in front of the hide, 2 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers, 4 Pink-footed Geese, Common Sandpiper, 20+ Gadwall, 100+ Sand Martins and several Yellow Wagtails.

Photos of the hide attached - looking superb! Several hundred trees and bushes have been planted as screening along the fence lines too. In fact the whole area is looking great and should be a real draw for birders and birds alike. A real credit to the DBC and the work of the volunteers involved.

[DEREK.C.]

A real credit to the DBC and the work of the volunteers involved.

Yes its looking good . Amazing what a handful of volunteers can achieve.
Nice to know that a percentage of subscriptions paid by DBC members is going directly into conservation work like this.:t:

Managed a few pics this last week or two , mostly from Weardale..

[great bustard]

A brief visit to do some work on the hide at Castle Lake this afternoon produced Corn Bunting singing from right in front of the hide, 2 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers, 4 Pink-footed Geese, Common Sandpiper, 20+ Gadwall, 100+ Sand Martins and several Yellow Wagtails.

Photos of the hide attached - looking superb! Several hundred trees and bushes have been planted as screening along the fence lines too. In fact the whole area is looking great and should be a real draw for birders and birds alike. A real credit to the DBC and the work of the volunteers involved.

Nice Carpet too!!;)

[Scuzz]

Good numbers of linnets-some collecting nesting material.
Chiffchaff, willow warbler, great & LT tits, swallows, blackbirds, starlings, crows etc.

[ian hamilton]

Lesser Whitethroat singing along wessington way,southwick,at timber beach
were 5 Canada Geese,2 prs Shelduck,2 Curlew,Swallow flew south,Blackcap,
Common Whitethroat singing and 4 Willow Warbler and from pallion were
a party of 14 Turnstone feeding and a Common Tern flew west.

[IanF]

Seaton Common - 8.30am - Wheatear c.30.

Zinc Works Road - Lesser Whitethroat x1, Linnet x6, Stonechat pair, Swallow x7

Seal Sands roundabout - Short-eared Owl

Dormans Pool - Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Blackcap, Common Whitethroat, Grasshopper Warbler. Weasel.

RSPB Saltholme - on Back Saltholme - Spoonbill, Common Tern x2, Turnstone x2, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Gadwall, Shelduck. BH Gull c.10, Yellow Wagtail c.20, Wheatear x4, Little Ringed Plover x2, Little Grebe x4, Great Crested Grebe x6. Hare.

Photos: 1. Yellow Wagtail - 2. Little Grebe - 3. Great Crested Grebe - 4. Hare - 5. Weasel

[jason-t-71]

Theres a pair of WHISKERED TERNS at Saltholme this evening. I've just come in from seeing them, they were flitting between the two ponds either side of the main road then came to land on posts on the main reserve pond. The road was starting to get packed with birders as I was leaving. Reminds me of when the Glaucous Wing was there!

[Shaggy2070]

Had a ride up to Tunstall Reservoir to see if the Redstarts and Pied Flycatchers had started to arrive yet.
Stating at the car park and walking round the reservoir in an anti clockwise direction, there was a few Graylags in the fields with Pheasants and crows. At the reserve bit Moorhen, Mallards with 3 ducklings and Pair of Greylags with 5 Gosling's and a few Willow Warblers fliting and singing in the bushes.

Started walking through the woods hoping to get better sightings of Redstarts (all I got last year were high up covered by leaves) and my first ever Pied Flycatcher. Didn't have to wait too long before I spotted one. It only stayed still about 4 seconds but it was enough to tick it off my book:t:. Continued through the woods and managed some great views of both Male and Female Redstarts in the leafless trees|:D|.

By far the best surprise for the day was something big being chased by a Crow just above the canopy, I managed to get my bins on to see an Osprey.
After that I wasn't too bothered about only getting a four second glimpse of the Pied FlycatcherB (:B (:

[AndyMc]

Looks like I missed out on the some Whiskered Terns then :-C. Mind you, I wouldn't know one If it tugged on me beard ;). I was looking for terns anall. Anyone got a white stick they don't need?|8)|.
:smoke:I blame the road closure at Greatham, if it wasn't for that, I would have seen the crowd on my way back home from Seaton.

The boring news then ;) is that the Spoony was feeding well at 4.00 in the pond South of the ''Triangle'' drainage ditch - Back Saltholme?? (not yet closed off for vehicles).
_______________________
:t:Andy

[jason-t-71]

Thats not boring at all, Spoonbills are great birds! :t:

[IanF]

A few photos of the two Whiskered Terns.

Spoonbill still present at 7.00pm plus quite a few Swifts, Swallow and Martins over Back Saltholme.

[Rare Visitor]

Some cracking birds across the region today including Black-headed Wagtail on Holy Island, those Whiskered Tern look superb. It'll be interesting to see if they keep coming North, their might be one or two birders 'fall ill' tomorrow.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

A few photos of the two Whiskered Terns.


Those are great shots of the Whiskered terns Ian!:t:
They are a day to late, where were they yesterday! ha ha Learning to drive now so I should be able to get down Teeside and start getting these fantastic birds I keep reading about, bide your time Kinghorn, bide your time:smoke:3:-)
Had a good day out today with the club. Only missed the Egyptian Goose, but had some great views of a Bearded Tit couldn't ask for a better view!

[rokermartin]

The Whiskered Terns are the first ones for Co Durham a well overdue addition for the Durham bird list.

[Jamie D]

Wiskered Terns at Saltholme

[Jamie D]

Last few for today

[IanF]

WT reported earlier this morning.

Just Common Tern present now at Satholme

[Rare Visitor]

Just Common Tern present now at Satholme

Was it seen leaving? North or South?

[IanF]

Was it seen leaving? North or South?

Afraid not, not by me anyway. At 10.00 am when the reserve opened and viewing from the hide only two Common Tern present.

Lots of Swift, Swallow and Martins around this morning as well.

[will@bill]

seen today by mouldy:t:

[Mouldy]

seen today by mouldy:t:

Still showing this morning in heavy rain, regularly but briefly from the hide as it made circuits over the trees and back again.

Four species of hirundine plus swift in air together, garden warbler in the car park surrounds, grasshopper warbler reeling opposite the car park and tawny owl calling from wooded area off the approach road.


Apologies for the crap record shot (taken yesterday when it was a bit more visible)

[StevieEvans]

Still showing this morning in heavy rain, regularly but briefly from the hide as it made circuits over the trees and back again.

Four species of hirundine plus swift in air together, garden warbler in the car park surrounds, grasshopper warbler reeling opposite the car park and tawny owl calling from wooded area off the approach road.


Apologies for the crap record shot (taken yesterday when it was a bit more visible)

Hi Alan, Thanks for update.
Been reading your account of finding it, great stuff :t: . . . .
i was wondering if the little'un is due a special treat, seeing as he chose yesterdays venue for you ? ;)

Couple of Swifts over the swg wks at Durham City this morning - hopefully all this rain will have dropped a passage wader or two ? - rain seems to be easing off here - gonna have a look as soon as i'm dried out.

Steve

[ian hamilton]

timber beach this morning were 11 turnstone,4 willow warbler,chiffchaff,
blackcap ,2 whitethroat and a common tern flew west.
took the girlfriend there on her first visit and a real bonus was a otter feeding on
the river,took me years to see a wild otter and she goes with me and sees one
on her first visit,hows that for luck,jammy woman lol.

[birding maniac]

Where is the Red rumped swallow? would fancy seeing that. Also probably going to see the spoony (that i have dippedon loads). what time is best to see it? where is it roosting.
Thanks :-)

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Where is the Red rumped swallow? would fancy seeing that. Also probably going to see the spoony (that i have dippedon loads). what time is best to see it? where is it roosting.
Thanks :-)

On the 3rd page of this link, there is a pretty basic map.

http://www.gateshead.gov.uk/DocumentLibrary/Leisure/Leaflets/countryside/Derwent.pdf

Hopefully, it will help. ;)

EDIT: The 4th page could help you a bit more as it is more in-depth.

[StevieEvans]

Mid afternoon walk across to Joes / Rainton in somewhat poor conditions.

Couple of waders but nothing out of the ordinary, couple each of Common Sandpiper & L.R.Plover.
The first Common Tern was back on his island, sheltering out of wind & rain. A Yellow Wagtail went over the main pool.
Lots of Swallows hawking over the pools & fields - first real April shower since they've returned.
2 Reed Warblers singing at Joes (1 seen, the other invisible), only a single Sedge Warbler singing from Brambles at pool1.
No sign as yet of Garden Warbler nor Cuckoo (!), though they've been seen close by

Bumped into "The Swan Lady" aka Linda Charlton, in the process of taking the Pool 2 Cob off to the vet.
It had been attacked by a dog at the weekend & has damaged wings
Not the first time he's needed attention, having previously been brutalised at Hetton Lyons.
It will be interesting to see what his mate does in his absence. . . . she was still sitting tight, on this her second clutch of the year.

The Swan Lady tells me things are worse than ever in our area, as regards acts of cruelty to these birds - try a google search . . . .


On a happier note, for the first time, we have a third pair of Swans now starting to nest at the Joes/RM's complex ..... the way this rains coming down, they'd better build a good one !

[Cyclops]

Took the kids to the South Park,Darlington yesterday and walking along the river on the way in I saw what I think was a Goosander! Grey body and brown head like a Pochard but with slender bill and a tuft at the nape. Seemed out of place somehow,it being a Sawbill

[StevieEvans]

Finally managed to catch up with Cuckoo at Seaton Pond - it ran a gauntlet of dive-bombing Lapwings & Redshanks as it flew past the north pool ! (presumably mistaken for raptor)
Lots of Grasshopper Warblers over there - watched one reeling at extremely close range in roadside bramble bushes, from the comfort of the car.:t:

Called in passing at Houghton Gate, still waiting for a 'good' passage wader to drop in . . . although a Swift was another year first for me.

Had to be a Gateshead for 4, resisted the temptation to go to see Mouldys Swallow, but enjoyed a splendid summer plumaged male Ruff from hide at Lamesley Meadows. Others included Yellow Wag, LRPlover & Lapwing chicks.

[Quacker]

Mouldy's Swallow (is that a new species;)) still buzzing around Far Pasture with the House Martins 1735-1815 when I left

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Stevie, where is Seaton Pond ?

[Jamie D]

Wood Warbler at the end of the Zink Works Road near Seaton Carew this evening

[Scuzz]

A few from South Hetton old railway line today:

Blue, great & willow/marsh tit, greenfinch, chaffinch, yellow hammer, willow warbler, linnets, wren, reed bunting, swallows, blackbirds, starlings etc and chiffchaff heard.

[AndyMc]

Took the kids to the South Park,Darlington yesterday and walking along the river on the way in I saw what I think was a Goosander! Grey body and brown head like a Pochard but with slender bill and a tuft at the nape. Seemed out of place somehow,it being a Sawbill

Goosander quite a regular there of some years, since the river has substantially improved, only out of place if qeuing for an ice cream 3:-).

Keep your eyes open for Kingfisher as well. A couple of years back I watched one for 20 minutes fishing on Victoria Embankment, of all places, 20ft from the ring road :eek!:.
_____________________
:t:Andy

[StevieEvans]

Stevie, where is Seaton Pond ?

Its on the Eastern Limit, and only just scrapes into the Houghton Patch . . . ;)
South off the main road from Houghton to Seaham.
Grid Ref is NZ384491 - Parking there for a car or two

There are 2 ponds which can be viewed from public footpaths. The main pool is 150m South East of the grid ref, the North Pool is on the other side of the road & is the shallower, more wader friendly of the two.


Wood Warbler at the end of the Zink Works Road near Seaton Carew this evening
Nice shots of a scarce passage bird.
Thought there might have been a few more migrants on the coast today ( sounded a bit like my m8 Rokermartin there!), especially after all that rain & south easterly airflow.
I had to put the car in the menders this morning, so gave the Hendon area of Sunderland a try (9:30-11:30).
Singles of Redwing, Wheatear, Lesser Whitethroat feeding on leafless Sycamore & perched preening on fencetop razor-wire !, many Swallows & a few alba wagtails seemed to be the only passage migrants.
The place is a right eyesore, but sections of the inland side of the railway embankment look like ideal migrant traps. (& some look like death traps)
Others included :- Little Owl calling, pr Grey Partridge, 10Blackbird, 4Song Thrush, 4m Common Whitethroat 1 nest building, 2Kestrel, Sparrowhawk with prey, 1Common Sandpiper.

[rokermartin]

Finally managed to catch up with Cuckoo at Seaton Pond - it ran a gauntlet of dive-bombing Lapwings & Redshanks as it flew past the north pool ! (presumably mistaken for raptor)
Lots of Grasshopper Warblers over there - watched one reeling at extremely close range in roadside bramble bushes, from the comfort of the car.:t:

Called in passing at Houghton Gate, still waiting for a 'good' passage wader to drop in . . . although a Swift was another year first for me.

Had to be a Gateshead for 4, resisted the temptation to go to see Mouldys Swallow, but enjoyed a splendid summer plumaged male Ruff from hide at Lamesley Meadows. Others included Yellow Wag, LRPlover & Lapwing chicks.Hi Steve i was at Seaton Pond this afternoon and saw a Cuckoo close to the pond and heard another 1 further up the road.Also had excellent views of a Gropper in roadside brambles.Other birds of note 2 Greenland Wheatears.

[StevieEvans]

Hi Steve i was at Seaton Pond this afternoon and saw a Cuckoo close to the pond and heard another 1 further up the road.Also had excellent views of a Gropper in roadside brambles.Other birds of note 2 Greenland Wheatears.

You've done alright there Martin. Give me a ring if you get any passage waders there or thereabouts - on #132 and still waiting for Dunlin, Greenshank, Ruff - Speaking of which, the Lamesley one is a belter, colourful male with a neck ruff.

[rokermartin]

You've done alright there Martin. Give me a ring if you get any passage waders there or thereabouts - on #132 and still waiting for Dunlin, Greenshank, Ruff - Speaking of which, the Lamesley one is a belter, colourful male with a neck ruff.
Will do Steve as you said the other pond looks good for waders.I would'nt be surprised if a Wood Sand turns up or even a Temminck's Stint.Also went to Hurworth Burn today and while driving along not far from there had cracking views of a Tawny Owl right out in the open perched on top of a roadside bush.

[Cyclops]

Goosander quite a regular there of some years, since the river has substantially improved, only out of place if qeuing for an ice cream 3:-).

Keep your eyes open for Kingfisher as well. A couple of years back I watched one for 20 minutes fishing on Victoria Embankment, of all places, 20ft from the ring road :eek!:.
_____________________
:t:Andy

Ooh not seen a Kingfisher for years,not since I lived near Wolverhampton! Would be nice to see one.

[AndyMc]

Ooh not seen a Kingfisher for years,not since I lived near Wolverhampton! Would be nice to see one.

Saw 2 pairing up (?) a couple of weeks ago along the Tees, midway between Blackwell & Broken Scar. Have a walk down, you might be lucky. Oh, Otters as well.8-P
________________
:t:Andy

[ian hamilton]

Timber Beach,0445-0620;
Cormorant
2 Mute Swan
4 prs Shelduck
2m1f Mallard
m Kestrel
pr Oystercatcher
Common Sandpiper
9 Turnstone
Herring Gull
Lesser Black-Backed Gull
Common Tern
Woodpigeon
Wren
Dunnock
Blackbird
Grasshopper Warbler reeling from pallion
2m Blackcap
2 Whitethroat
5 Willow Warbler
2 Chiffchaff
Blue Tit
Great Tit
Magpie
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Linnet
Bullfinch

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Houghton Gate this evening - 2 LRP, 1 Common Sandpiper.

I wonder, Mr. Evans, who will get the first ultra-rare migrant at this under-rated site.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Houghton Gate this evening - 2 LRP, 1 Common Sandpiper.

I wonder, Mr. Evans, who will get the first ultra-rare migrant at this under-rated site.

I can assure you it won't be me;) I always seem to miss the rare birds.
I went to go and look for the Red Rumped Swallow but left to early and missed it. Oh well thats the way it goes.

Pink-footed goose and Chester I presume this will be an escapee. Also about 10c Swift about and 2 Sand Martin.

[Quacker]

I can assure you it won't be me;) I always seem to miss the rare birds.
I went to go and look for the Red Rumped Swallow but left to early and missed it. Oh well thats the way it goes.



You weren't the one who got a lift in the Mini on Wednesday Andrew were you? - I recall it returned shortly after then. Ouch! In fairness, it would be dull if they were all there all the time.

I missed the Whiskered - I'l enjoy them better next time lol.

[StevieEvans]

Bishop Middleham
Castle Lake Nature Reserve:
A Good selection as usual, but nothing particularly out of the ordinary.

A selection of those seen include -
8Swift, 5LRPlover, 1Pochard, 5+Wheatear, 1Curlew, Green Woodpecker, 2Golden Plover, 4GCGrebe, prStock Dove, 8Dabchick, 2male Corn Bunting, 1Peregrine, prGrey Partridge, 4YellowWagtail, 3Shoveller, 1Common Buzzard, 5Shelduck, 2Tree Sparrow, 3Cormorant

50 odd species seen from the hide.:t:

The Corn Bunting would be singing strongly close to the hide - mostly instantly obvious, although several times he sang from the ground - first time ive noted this.
A single House Martin collected mud for his nest

On a less positive note, at least 3 visitors disregarding the interpretive materials & signs & walking close to the Lake, resulting in incubating birds coming off the nests.:C

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

You weren't the one who got a lift in the Mini on Wednesday Andrew were you? - I recall it returned shortly after then. Ouch! In fairness, it would be dull if they were all there all the time.

I missed the Whiskered - I'l enjoy them better next time lol.

Yep that was me. It was my Mum. I can't drive yet, I am learning to drive had my second lesson today. So it was me and my Mum.:t:
Can I ask in minutes roughly how long after I left did it arrive?

[StevieEvans]

Houghton Gate this evening - 2 LRP, 1 Common Sandpiper.

I wonder, Mr. Evans, who will get the first ultra-rare migrant at this under-rated site.

Im not sure, young Master Hall - hopefully it'll be you.

Its one of those little but often sites - ive called in 3 times over the course of a day & seen 3 different sets of birds . . .
(just read about a patcher in Cambridge who recently found a Black Winged Stilt on his 3rd visit of the day to his patch !)

its often worth a check after a real heavy rain storm - once had 50 Redshank & a Knot ditch down together.

Keep at it, Good Luck !

[Rare Visitor]

its often worth a check after a real heavy rain storm - once had 50 Redshank & a Knot ditch down together.



Black Terns have a tendency to turn up during Spring Showers

[IanF]

Crimdon Dene - am - Little Tern x3 feeding offshore.

Hartlepool Headland on Parton Rocks - only waders present were Turnstone x11 and Ringed Plover x2. Oystercatcher c.20 and Eider x8 in the harbour.

Seaton Common - Yellow Wagtail x5 feeding alongside the road plus at least another two from Zinc Works Road. Wheatear c.20, Linnet, Goldfinch, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Redshank x4, Lapwing, Canada Goose x5, Greylag Goose x3, Little Egret x1, Grey Heron x1.

Stonechat x5, Whitethroat x2, Sedge Warbler x1 also along Zincs Works Road with Swallow x4 and House Martin x2.

Avocet x20 at Saline Lagoon including three chicks. Apparently they hatched yesterday sometime. Also present Redshank x2, Lapwing x4, Shelduck x2, Canda Goose x2, Pied Wagtail, Coot, Moorhen.

Whimbrel x1 in flight along Greatham Creek and another two by the firestation roundabout.

[Shaggy2070]

Marsh Harrier being mobbed by two crows before going to ground near Station Town 10:45am:t:.

[brianfm]

I spent an excellent half day at Tunstall Reservoir and Muggleswick on Wed.

On entering the woodland at Tunstall I was met immediately by a pair of G S Woodpeckers, but the bird of the day was the Redstart. I had excellent views of a pair flitting back and forth in the trees and then found the male of another pair. Also found my first Common Sandpiper of the year. Lost count of the number of Treecreepers about.

Came across Orange Tip Butterfly on the way to Muggleswick and Speckled Wood on arrival. Excellent sighting of a pair of Pied Flycatchers. Tawny Owl and Sparrowhawk also in the woodland area.

The Wood Sorrel was abundant in the Tunstall woods and I found a patch of the pink variety. Anyone able to tell me if this pink variety is quite rare in the area?

My targets had been Redstart, Pied Flycatcher and Wood Warbler. I settled for 2 out of the three.

[StevieEvans]

Browney Valley around Malton:

An old haunt of mine, still loads of birds.
Common Buzzard was the first bird i saw - not even annual when i was a regular here.
But there are some obvious declines, eg Redpolls & Moorhen, and no sign at all of any Pied Fly or Tree Pipits.
5 singing male Redstarts (1 flycatching over the Browney on the first bend downstream of Waters Meet) 2singing Cuckoo, 2Garden Warbler - both on the dwt reserve- but no Gropper here, 1Lesser Whitethroat singing on the railway line,
male Green Woodpecker + another yaffling, 7+Siskin, a Woodcock walked over a woodland track, 2Nuthatch, 7+Treecreeper, 1male Lesser Redpoll,
Kingfisher at nest, 5Dipper inc a fledged juv & male feeding his mate & nest building, 5Grey Wagtail - 2pr taking food to the nest, a couple of Herons went up & down the valley, but only 2Moorhen seen (mink?).
3Bullfinch, 2Willow Tit, 2 cock Reed Buntings singing in the Swg Wks Phragmite bed, & downstream a Little Owl in a traditional Oak.
No sign of any Swifts in the Valley, although all 3 hirundines were present in small numbers.
Checked former regular nest sites of Goosander, Tawny Owl & Kingfisher all gone courtesy of mother nature.
Had hoped for Spotted Flycatcher today but it was cool & breezy & may have missed them.....

Rainton, Pool2:
Called in for 10mins on way home; view from from the 'freezer' was quite productive for a change !:-
2Whimbrel roosting, 3Common Sandpiper, 1Swift & Cuckoo watched singing in the rain.

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Is the spoonbill still present around Teesside ? I was thinking about paying a visit, and I was wondering if it was still there.

[deansmith]

7 little terns 6pm crimdon dene ( 3 seen earlier today )

great crested grebe, whitethroat, linnet, swallow and house martin seen earlier today.

little tern breeding area gets fenced off wednesday. there is also a activity day 12 - 3pm on sunday the 17th which seems to be aimed at little uns with rock pool exploration and crafts and a chance to visit the tern hut and see what the wardens are upto during breeding season.

[deansmith]

Is the spoonbill still present around Teesside ? I was thinking about paying a visit, and I was wondering if it was still there.


was still there last wednesday, the volunteer in the hide said it disapears for different periods of time they think its gone then it comes back again. if you visit soon and spend enough time there theres probably a good chance of seeing it

last sighting on the tmbc page is from 30/4

DS

[The Chairman]

Im not sure, young Master Hall - hopefully it'll be you.

Its one of those little but often sites - ive called in 3 times over the course of a day & seen 3 different sets of birds . . .
(just read about a patcher in Cambridge who recently found a Black Winged Stilt on his 3rd visit of the day to his patch !)

its often worth a check after a real heavy rain storm - once had 50 Redshank & a Knot ditch down together.

Keep at it, Good Luck !

Mr Ahmed found a Yellow browed Warbler in Trow Quarry a year or two back ...also on his third visit of the day....in my opinion if you keep watching the same site day after day eventually you'll find something out of the ordinary. It may not be a mega rarity but, trust me, it will be all the sweeter because of the time you put in on previous visits.

[Quacker]

Yep that was me. It was my Mum. I can't drive yet, I am learning to drive had my second lesson today. So it was me and my Mum.:t:
Can I ask in minutes roughly how long after I left did it arrive?

Can't recall the exact time you left mate, but the bird re-appeared at 17.35 - couldn't have been by too much.

Did you catch up with the Spoonbill? - I (probably foolishly) advised your mum it was nailed to the same spot and you couldn't miss it! - at least I think it was your mum I was discussing the Spoonbill with (too much talking not enough birding).

[deansmith]

28 little terns today crimdon dene - also 2 sandwich terns there 6pm

[will@bill]

yesterday at castle lake

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

An ok day with some good birds!
Had a nice male Cuckoo which was a year and a life tick for me! :t:
Other birds seen and/or heard: Stonechat, Whitethroat, Skylark, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Woodpigeon, Swallow, Lapwing, Long-tailed tit, Lesser-Black Backed Gull, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Chaffinch, and Linnet.

One bird I was suprised to see was a Buzzard being mobbed by a crow for a while and then headed off north.:king:

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Salthome Reserve yesterday was a very productive visit with lots of birds around.

Wheatear, GC Grebe, lots of Yellow Wagtails, a male Garganey from Saltholme Pools Hide, Grey Heron (with a damaged wing), Canada Geese goslings.

At the Bus Stop Hide, there are plenty of Avocets, with one even mobbing a lapwing then a shelduck viciously.

[StevieEvans]

yesterday at castle lake

whats happening in the 4th pic ? - has someone dropped a pound coin ;)
i like the addition of barbed-wire along the top of the screening - presumably to stop the hordes teaming forward when that Oriental Pratincole turns up.......3:-)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

No birding for me today, other than to twitch Jimmys cream crown Marsh Harrier in passing at Seaton Pond.
Others here included Cuckoo, Wheatear, drake Teal, pr Redshank, Whitethroats

Steve

[Donno]

Cockfield Fell

Quick visit to the top corner of Cockfield Fell (cold & windy). Single Willow Warbler calling by the car park. On the fell were numerous Skylark and Linnets, Blackbird, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw. Highlight was a pair of Wheatear.
In the field opposite the fell a Lapwing had 3 small chicks.

[StevieEvans]

Hardwick Lake:

Pond dipping visit on a typically cold B.Hol Monday
1Spotted Flycatcher around the phragmites area, also singing Sedge & Garden Warblers.
Other bits & bobs proclaiming territories included Treecreeper, Goldcrest, Coal Tit, Whitethroat & Blackcap
Pair GCGrebe with very exposed nest in centre of lake & a Dabchick or two.
Single pairs of Shoveller & Pochard loafing in the shallows & a pair of Gadwall flew over.
Several broods of Mallards & a large Coot brood of 8 chicks.

Steve

[will@bill]

whats happening in the 4th pic ? - has someone dropped a pound coin ;)
i like the addition of barbed-wire along the top of the screening - presumably to stop the hordes teaming forward when that Oriental Pratincole turns up
Steve

no way it was a pound coin i would have been looking for it as well:-O no we were planting wild flowers. the place is going to be the birding center of durham:t: and with the new carpet in the hide its a shame i had shoes on instead of my slippers;)

[Skelly]

Some recent pics of Cuckoo and Grasshopper Warbler.

Checked for Gropper on Saturday but no sight or sound of it.

Recent Whinchat seems to have passed through also.

B (:

[StevieEvans]

Some recent pics of Cuckoo and Grasshopper Warbler.

Checked for Gropper on Saturday but no sight or sound of it.

Recent Whinchat seems to have passed through also.

B (:


got a feeling the Whinchat is going to be missing from next weeks BirdRace tally :-C

Houghton Gate late afternoon had a nice male Yellow Wagtail, Common Sand & my first Dunlin of the year ( #133)

[waxyplumer]

[QUOTE=StevieEvans;1470682][FONT="Arial"]whats happening in the 4th pic ? - has someone dropped a pound coin ;)

Stevie, we were actually planting pound coins in an effort to get more visitors to explore the site. DBC members will get clues to the exact locations on the day of the Official opening on May 24th.

Mick,Will and Bill.

[joe1969]

your right will,that hat does look ridiculous,see your dad had to take a stick to you,to make you work

[StevieEvans]

your right will,that hat does look ridiculous,see your dad had to take a stick to you,to make you work

But isn't it tradition for the Scare-crow to always have a hat ? ;)

Good to see you've joined The Shoveller's Will, - theres a canny flock of us now.:t:

[will@bill]

and i thought i looked dashing 3:-)
anyway found this chap today looks like a very yellow willow warb or is it??
checked to causey arch for the spotted fly but no sign of him yet but it was the 9th may last year so we be back at the weekend..

[ian hamilton]

Timber Beach 0425-0600;
Cormorant
2 prs Shelduck
Curlew
Herring Gull
Lesser Black-Backed Gull
Common Tern
Woodpigeon
Tawny Owl singing from claxheugh rock
Wren
Robin
Blackbird
Song thrush
Grasshopper Warbler reeling from the crethauser
2 Blackcap
2 Whitethroat
6 Willow Warbler
2 Chiffchaff
Magpie
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
m Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Bullfinch

Grasshopper Warbler still off queens road and 2 swallow flew north.

[dampflippers]

While you are out birding, please keep an eye open for hares.
If you see a brown hare (not a rabbit) in the Durham area (between the Tyne and Tees), please fill in a survey form and submit it to Durham Wildlife Trust / Durham Biodiversity Partnership. South Tyneside, Sunderland and Gateshead are also included.
You will need to record number of hares seen, the address/ name of the location, a description of habitat and what they were doing, and grid ref or postcode of where you saw them.

http://www.durhambiodiversity.org.uk/brownharesurvey.htm
http://www.durhambiodiversity.org.uk/brownharesurveyform.htm

http://www.durhambiodiversity.org.uk/surveys.htm

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Can't recall the exact time you left mate, but the bird re-appeared at 17.35 - couldn't have been by too much.

Did you catch up with the Spoonbill? - I (probably foolishly) advised your mum it was nailed to the same spot and you couldn't miss it! - at least I think it was your mum I was discussing the Spoonbill with (too much talking not enough birding).

I didn't catch up withthe Spoonbill unfortuanaty. I am quite restricted at the moment and only get out to certain places occasionaly. However I am out quite often to places with a fellow DBC freind. When I get mobile and learn to drive hopefully the life list will shoot up!! Yeah I think it would be my Mum you where talking to. She was in a mini and she is quite short, its hard to explain what she looks like 3:-)

Maybe I shall bump into you some time in the future.:t:
Even though I missed the Red-rumped swallow there is some good news. I am on 139 bird species this year. Last year I got 149! Looks like I might beat last years list by quite a lot!!:eek!:

[Scuzz]

Walked round Saltholme for the first time:
Birds of note were:
wheatear, goldfinch, yellow & grey wagtail, mipits, skylark, good numbers of gadwall and swifts, also 20+ common terns, shellduck, grey heron and the usual greylags, canada geese, mute swans, lapwings, coots etc.
One of the canada geese was having a go at a crow, the crow must've been getting to close to the nest area.
I think the high winds forced a lot of the birds to take shelter.

Popped along to check on the avocet population: at least 3 lots of chicks seen, 2 lots of 4 and a threesome :t:

Note for S.E. the childrens play area is still not finished.

[Scuzz]

A few more from today:

[NeilF]

Houghton Gate c1800
Temminck's Stint, Black-tailed Godwit & a Wheatear.

Great to meet Lardy & Jason :t:

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Houghton Gate c1800
Temminck's Stint, Black-tailed Godwit & a Wheatear.

Great to meet Lardy & Jason :t:

Sorry to sound so doubtful, but what makes you think that you saw a Temnick's Stint ? I'm not doubting you, but I would like to see photos.

[Rare Visitor]

Sorry to sound so doubtful, but what makes you think that you saw a Temnick's Stint ? I'm not doubting you, but I would like to see photos.

Whether he saw it or not at least he can spell it. ;)

[NeilF]

Sorry to sound so doubtful, but what makes you think that you saw a Temnick's Stint ? I'm not doubting you, but I would like to see photos.

Because;
A I did
B I know what they look like
C I've seen them before
D I don't do photography (very well) or have a long lens
E I was with other birders who confirmed it's identity

With any luck the bird might be there tomorrow, get yourself down and see it for yourself :t:
Don't forget your camera or no-one will believe you ;)

[jason-t-71]

Believe it or not, not every birdwatcher carries one of those pesky cameras with them! Quite obviously you ARE doubting him otherwise you wouldnt have asked! Not only did I see the Temmincks Stint, but I also seen the Egret at Dormans this morning. And I didnt take a picture of either!
By the way, it was good to finally meet you Neil.

[rokermartin]

Sorry to sound so doubtful, but what makes you think that you saw a Temnick's Stint ? I'm not doubting you, but I would like to see photos.Hi why are you questioning the Temminck's Stint sighting its peak time now to see them on passage and they can turn up anywhere they are often seen inland.Also we get Temminck's Stints nearly every spring in Co Durham.

[littlebrownthing]

Can anyone give me directions to these two places? Just in case the birds are there tomorrow. Tried at Saltholme but couldn't find the Egret - just seen the news on the Stint.
Any help would be greatly appreciated

Chris (the very enthusiastic amateur :) )

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Can anyone give me directions to these two places? Just in case the birds are there tomorrow. Tried at Saltholme but couldn't find the Egret - just seen the news on the Stint.
Any help would be greatly appreciated

Chris (the very enthusiastic amateur :) )

I have put the links to the maps of the locations at the bottom. You can zoom in and zoom out on the right hand side this might help you with directions. I am sorry the directions are not that good.
Houghton Gate: http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=430062&y=551207&z=120&sv=430062,551207&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=755&ax=430062&ay=551207&lm=0
Saltholme Pools RSPB:http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=450525&y=523226&z=120&sv=450525,523226&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=755&ax=450525&ay=523226&lm=0
For to get into Dorman's Pool you need to be a Teesmouth Bird Club member I beleive. If this egret is anything like the spoonbill it might move around a bit. Therfore might it might be at Saltholme.

I would zoom in on the Saltholme one, I hope I have been of some help, hope you see the Great White Egret and the Temminck's Stints, If it' still there I shall most likely go down and try to get the Temminck's stint.:t:

[Jonathan Hare]

Are the Egrets down at the pool by the bridge at Seal Sands, or am I thinking of something else that has bred there.


I was down at Newburn Bridge a couple of days ago, and this little colourful chappie flew around. I managed to grab a shot.

http://www.jhphotos.co.uk/html/may-_aug_2009_19.html

Is this a ordinary one or is it a Northern one.

[Boy Wonder]

For anyone thinking of coming down the Great White Egret was present on Back Saltholme at 08:05 this morning and is on the Wet Grassland as of 09:00, viewable from Paddy's Pool Hide. It is quite distant but can show well if not in one of our ditches :) Reserve open from 10:00 - 17:00

[great bustard]

Because;
A I did
B I know what they look like
C I've seen them before
D I don't do photography (very well) or have a long lens
E I was with other birders who confirmed it's identity

With any luck the bird might be there tomorrow, get yourself down and see it for yourself :t:
Don't forget your camera or no-one will believe you ;)

Great find Neil.......

After a day of bird racing we were struggling to find many more birds, especially waders...fancy having one turn up like that!!!!

A life tick as never seen a Temnicks before


Cheers

PS if you find any more birds could you send me a proof picture before i go and have a look for myself

Thanks

[woodhornbirder]

its been there for 12 hrs.....why no pics yet? )

[NeilF]

PS if you find any more birds could you send me a proof picture before i go and have a look for myself

Thanks

:clap: nice one Ian 3:-)

[littlebrownthing]

Cheers Andrew - at least I know where these places are now!
Unfortunately have to work today :( so will not be able to get out and see the birds. Will have to wait till the next time.

Hope you saw them
Chris

[IanF]

Great White Egret still present at 11.55 on Back Saltholme. Still very distant from wherever viewed. Last seen gradually making it's way closer to Paddy's Pool hide.

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Whether he saw it or not at least he can spell it. ;)

It is a bit below the belt taking the mick out of a spelling mistake, especially when I am only 14.

Would you be so quick to point out something so trivial as a spelling mistake if I had learning difficulties ? I think not.

I apologise to Neil for 'doubting' him; I would have liked to see a photo of a Teminick's Stint. If you can't see a photo of a bird at your local patch, what can you ask for ?

[Rare Visitor]

It is a bit below the belt taking the mick out of a spelling mistake, especially when I am only 14.

Would you be so quick to point out something so trivial as a spelling mistake if I had learning difficulties ? I think not.

I apologise to Neil for 'doubting' him; I would have liked to see a photo of a Teminick's Stint. If you can't see a photo of a bird at your local patch, what can you ask for ?

Sorry I dont think one should discriminate on the basis of age, would you have challenged the sighting had the observer had learning difficulties? Possibly not but then like me you wouldn't have known that assuming you aren't clairvoyant either. You should perhaps concentrate on developing a sense of humour though, oh and you might want to try TEMMINCK'S, third time lucky eh ;)

On a serious note, there is no problem asking for photographs but there is a way of doing it that doesn't cast doubt over someone's sighting on a public forum. You may feel slighted about me highlighting your spelling mistake imagine how another birder feels when you cast doubt over his identification skills on a bird you havent seen.

[Rare Visitor]

Try this

http://www.birdguides.com/iris/pictures.asp?v=1&off=173516&r=1&st=0&q=0

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

Sorry I dont think one should discriminate on the basis of age

Neither do I. Why did you point out a spelling mistake ? Are you such a pedantic person that you need to point out every mistake ? If we're being so picky, I think you should have an apostrophe on the third word of your sentence.

would you have challenged the sighting had the observer had learning difficulties?

Obviously not. You might do, but I don't think learning difficulties are a joking matter. Ask anyone, and they will tell you the same.

You may feel slighted about me highlighting your spelling mistake imagine how another birder feels when you cast doubt over his identification skills on a bird you havent seen.

I never doubted his identification skills; I asked for a photo if he had one. Big difference. 8-P

'A bird I haven't seen ?' Isn't that a bit of a cheap shot ? Many people my age or older haven't seen a Temminck's Stint (Is that alright ?). Your blog tries to help people see rare birds around the North East so you must be having a go at them. What is the point in trying to help people if you are just going to criticise the birds they haven't seen ? Disappointing. 8-P

[Rare Visitor]

Why did you point out a spelling mistake ? Are you such a pedantic person that you need to point out every mistake ?

I pointed it out because I think it is important to spell species names correctly and I think like many readers was slightly amused by the irony of your doubt and your misspelling. Pedantic, yes you'll understand when your over forty, it's a middle age thing.


learning difficulties

You introduced this, the relevance is lost on me. You might have these, you might not, I'd still correct your misspelling (or should that be mispelling I'm never sure).

I never doubted his identification skills
Sorry to sound so doubtful, but what makes you think that you saw a Temnick's Stint

What else were you sounding doubtful about?

Any more, why not PM me as this will be getting boring for everyone else. Cheer up at least you only got the spelling wrong, I've shouted Temminck's before and it's turned out to be dodgy.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

I apologise to Neil for 'doubting' him; I would have liked to see a photo of a Teminick's Stint. If you can't see a photo of a bird at your local patch, what can you ask for ?

Temminck's Stint still present when I left at 4:00. I know its a terrible shot but I have attached a picture that I took through my scope using my Mobile Phone.

Well done to NeilF for finding the bird! Thanks Neil, that's another one for the life and year list :t:

Andrew K

[Rare Visitor]

I think that's one for the mystery bird competition Andrew. I'm pleased I'm not there, I would have had that as an empty Stella Artois can with my eyesight.

[Boy Wonder]

As well as the Great White Egret showing amazingly well from Paddy's Pool Hide (and sometimes not amazingly well) there were also 2 Wood Sandpipers present from about 16:00 onwards. Hopefully all three will stick around till tomorrow and be joined by something else :)

[StevieEvans]

Houghton Gate c1800
Temminck's Stint, Black-tailed Godwit & a Wheatear.

Great to meet Lardy & Jason :t:



Good going Neil. :t:
A great "finders" bird anywhere, but especially so when its a site first :king:

Looks like there been a steady stream of admirers through this weekend, its a beautifully marked bird.

Thanks for the call - certainly a nice little bonus at the end of the day for yesterdays Bird Race teams :t:
We got through to find 3 keen local patchers with scopes (& smiles) trained on the bird.
We only managed 3 birds after watching your Stint . . . Little, Long-eared & Barn.

PS: That Blackwits a nice 'un too, the first for us this year.

PPS: Can we order a Broad-billed Sand for Castle Lake Open Day.
Cu later.

[littlebrownthing]

The day I planned to go out to Saltholme and then Temminck's hunting I have to do a load of work, it's been a beautiful day and then Saltholme has been Sandpiper heaven!
Ah well. Plenty more birds another time I guess.
Thanks for the photo of the Stint - I hadn't realised but I must have seen one before! I have loads of photos of birds from that far away and they all look like Temminck's Stint's 3:-)

Chris

[degsy_safc]

its been there for 12 hrs.....why no pics yet? )


Here is a pretty poor handheld very very distant pic of it taken approx 14.15 it was well beyond the Paddy's Pool Hide pretty much directly west of there and viewable from the path that leads to the 'wildlife watch point' hide

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Thanks for the photo of the Stint - I hadn't realised but I must have seen one before! I have loads of photos of birds from that far away and they all look like Temminck's Stint's 3:-)

Chris

ha ha Its one of those pictures you just have to take my word on it. A very, very distant record shot.:smoke:

It is definatly the Temminck's Stint as myself and other birders had ID'd it and there where no other waders there apart from the Redshank and Lapwing.
It's a shame you couldn't get down today it showed really well and I spent about 3 hours there watching it.:t:
cheers,
Andrew K:t:

[The blackbird]

I pointed it out because I think it is important to spell species names correctly and I think like many readers was slightly amused by the irony of your doubt and your misspelling. Pedantic, yes you'll understand when your over forty, it's a middle age thing.




You introduced this, the relevance is lost on me. You might have these, you might not, I'd still correct your misspelling (or should that be mispelling I'm never sure).




What else were you sounding doubtful about?

Any more, why not PM me as this will be getting boring for everyone else. Cheer up at least you only got the spelling wrong, I've shouted Temminck's before and it's turned out to be dodgy.



No carry on. It's not boring at all. Love it.

[Jumpin 4 Joy]

The Temmincks Stint was still present at Houghton Gate yesterday evening, which contradicts S Howat's report. I'm not saying he wasn't there but I never saw anyone else ! Where were you at, Steve ? (Assuming you read and post on this forum)

[IanF]

Crimdon Dene this morning - on the beach - Little Tern c.12, Dunlin x32, Grey Plover x1, Ringed Plover x7.

In the dunes/bushes - Linnet c.15, Stonechat x2, Common Whitethroat x3, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Sand Martin, Swallow, Kestrel.

Still plenty of Avocets on Saline Lagoon this evening plus the usual Lapwing, Redshank, Shelduck, Oystercatcher, Coot, Moorhen, Little Ringed Plover and Canada Goose. Swallow x7 feeding over hedge by hide.

Swift c.100 feeding very low over Saltholme Pools, Dormans Pool and Rec. Pond.

Photos: 1. Little Tern - 2. Dunlin - 3. Avocet with chicks - 4. Avocet chick - 5. Swift

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

The Temmincks Stint was still present at Houghton Gate yesterday evening, which contradicts S Howat's report. I'm not saying he wasn't there but I never saw anyone else ! Where were you at, Steve ? (Assuming you read and post on this forum)

I think this is getting a little bit out of hand. It doesn't really matter. Sometimes birds are overlooked and the Temmincks is very easily overlooked.

The bird appears to have gone now anyway. I think some people on the thread will agree with me when I say "just leave it there".

Happy Birding.
Andrew K:t:

[StevieEvans]

The Temmincks Stint was still present at Houghton Gate yesterday evening, which contradicts S Howat's report. I'm not saying he wasn't there but I never saw anyone else ! Where were you at, Steve ? (Assuming you read and post on this forum)

Can we ask for photographic proof too ? 3:-)

[Scuzz]

Pretty quiet at the quary with chaffinch, goldfinch, blue & great tit, chiffchaff heard, loads willow warblers, lapwing, pair dippers and the regular crows, jackdaws etc plus a glimps of a stoat near the stream.

Not much better at Tunstall Reservoir, 1 redstart seen, no sign of pied flycatcher, more willow warblers, grey heron which seemed to catch more than the fishermen, goldfinch, pied & grey wagtail.

[NeilF]

I think some people on the thread will agree with me when I say "just leave it there".



And so say all of us!! It's doin my head in |8||

Washington WWT this morning;
Singing Lesser Whitethroat, Reed & Sedge Warbler amongst all the regulars.

No passage waders seen but scoped a works experience team, looked a right motley crew ;);)

[Rare Visitor]

The Temmincks Stint was still present at Houghton Gate yesterday evening, which contradicts S Howat's report. I'm not saying he wasn't there but I never saw anyone else ! Where were you at, Steve ? (Assuming you read and post on this forum)

Congratulations on getting your lifer, its great when you get a new bird isn't it? Even better when you dont have any crossings out in your notebook too.;)

[Scuzz]

A few garden birds from today:

[IanF]

My first visit of the year the year to Tunstall Reservoir turned out better than expected after reading some of the recent reports from here.

I arrived at around 9.30am and parked by the end of the dam. The usual Common Sandpiper was along the dam wall along with Redshank, Pied Wagtail. Half a dozen House Martin were feeding over the wall and Goldfinch x3, Meadow Pipit x2 and Grey Wagtail x2 over the grassy bank. Halfway along the wall a Goshawk flew from west to east over the reservoir and over the trees at the top of Backstone Bank Wood where it was calling. Another pair of Grey Wagtail and a Pied Wagtail were feeding in the slipway. A Heron and another Common Sandpiper were in the corner of the dam. As I set off up the hill a Cormorant and half a dozen Greylag Goose landed on the reservoir.

Halfway up the hill a Garden Warbler was calling from the bushes just above my head but giving only fleeting glimpses. A Pied Flycatcher was calling from slightly higher.

On entering the wood there were lots of birds in song. Mostly Robin, Wren, Willow Warbler and a Chiffchaff calling but heading up the farm track to the right the Pied Flycatcher was in view. A Redstart gave fleeting glimpses but wasn't singing.

Heading back down the bank and along the track into the wood there were loads of Willow Warbler, Wren and Robin calling and no end of Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit and Long-tailed Tit.

By the second fenced area a Pied Flycatcher was calling and another 50m further along the path. Searching out both in the tree tops paid off leading to discovery of the nest holes where the females were taking in food. Great Spotted Woodpecker (m & f ) in the area as well as several Treecreeper and Nuthatch all gathering food. Whilst stood waiting 40 mins until the next food delivery a Tawny Owl flew low through the wood down towards the reservoir.

Little else seen until reaching the end of the mature wood where another Redstart was in the tree tops. Lots of Willow Warbler in the young trees with several still gathering nest material.

Retracing my steps there was nothing new until reaching the end of the path again where a Wood Warbler was calling every now and a again about 50m up the bankside - just the first half of it's song. It seemed to be moving back and forth c.100m though I never did spot it as I didn't fancy a scramble up the bank.

Re-crossing the dam Swift c.12 and Swallow had joined the House Martin.

All in all a pretty good visit even if views weren't that good.

Photos: 1. Redshank - 2. House Martin - 3. Pied Flycatcher (fem) - 4. Grey Wagtail - 5. Grey Heron

[IanF]

Next stop was Bollihope Common.

Ring Ouzel x1, Mistle Thrush x2, Cuckoo x1, Meadow Pipit x3, Pied Wagtail x1, Wheatear x2 were in the quarry on the south side.

Following the road over to Egglestone Common - loads of Red Grouse and Wheatear perched on the heather. Several pairs of Golden Plover with fluffy chicks, likewise with Lapwing. Just a few Curlew, Oystercatcher and Redshank seen. Kestrel was the only bird of prey.

Photos: 1. Cuckoo - 2. Red Grouse - 3. Golden Plover - 4. Golden Plover - 5. Lapwing

[Jonathan Hare]

Seaton Carew this afternoon, the carpark between the Golf Club and the Bus Station. On the beach was a Oysercatcher with an abnormal sized beak.

[carl_gorse]

You must of been next to me getting this Bird :>)

[carl_gorse]

Would i be correct that i seen some Stone Chats this evening around by the Powerstation at Hartlepool ?

Carl Gorse

[IanF]

Would i be correct that i seen some Stone Chats this evening around by the Powerstation at Hartlepool ?

Carl Gorse

Very likely. There's at least two pairs along Zinc Works Road.

[IanF]

4-5 Garden Warbler at Tilery Wood/A689 yesterday lunchtime. All within 100m of the scout hut.

Numerous Willow Warbler, Robin, Wren and Chiffchaff calling plus Goldcrest and Coal Tit.

Photos: Garden Warbler

[The Rev DA]

Good views of a Barn owl out hunting over the fields just off Potterhouse Lane - Pity me (from Sainsbury's retail park roundabout enter potterhouse lane pass the Tip on the left and the poultry Farm + Bungalow on the right to small wooded area on Right - excelent views at 8.30PM last night - it was still very light then - if only i had a camera!

David A

[StevieEvans]

. . . <snip> . . . On the beach was a Oysercatcher with an abnormal sized beak.
maybe it wants to be a Curlew when it grows up ?
i thought they only had the white neck collar during winter . . . ?

Good views of a Barn owl out hunting over the fields just off Potterhouse Lane - Pity me (from Sainsbury's retail park roundabout enter potterhouse lane pass the Tip on the left and the poultry Farm + Bungalow on the right to small wooded area on Right - excelent views at 8.30PM last night - it was still very light then - if only i had a camera!

David A

Nice.
Used to live at Pity Me. BO used to breed there, but their barn was demolished prior to Arnison centre construction.
Know that lane well - Theres often a Little Owl in the roadside Birch trees, where you describe your Barnie.

Not so Nice.
1 roadkilled Barn Owl on A19 nr Testo's roundabout. (per DSc)

[IanF]

Four Black Tern reported on Back Saltholme this morning. Down to three by the time I got there at 10.45 but they remained at least until I left at 14.30.

Also of note present on Back Saltholme - Pink-footed Goose, Barnacle Goose, Dunlin, Common Sandpiper.

At least one other Barnacle Goose on Paddy's Pool where an Iceland Gull had been present first thing before being chased away but BH Gulls. Probably the same one as seen at the Wildlife Watchpoint yesterday morning.

Photos: 1.-3. Black Tern - 4. Barnacle Goose - 5. Pink-footed Goose

[StevieEvans]

Adult Black Tern (PHi) on main lake at Herrington C.Pk, giving very close views at times.
Still there till at least 14:30.

[DEREK.C.]

A few pics i have managed over the last month.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Black Tern still showing well at 3:00pm, still present when myself and MarkN left, glad I have finally met MarkN
Another lifer for me, I am sure I saw another tern there most likely a common tern. Was to busy looking for the Black Tern.
Don't worry I didn't get a cracking photo of the bird using my mobile phone through my scope;)
Finally thanks to SteveE for the head's up about the bird:t:

[NeilF]

Black Tern still putting on a good show at Herrington CP @17:50
Great to meet MalR, another BirdForum member ticked off :t:

On to Houghton Gate but nothing out of the ordinary 'til 18:30, highlight was four overflying Mistle Thrush together.

[MalR]

Black Tern still putting on a good show at Herrington CP @17:50
Great to meet MalR, another BirdForum member ticked off :t:

On to Houghton Gate but nothing out of the ordinary 'til 18:30, highlight was four overflying Mistle Thrush together.

Very nice to meet you too, Neil. Always good to put a face to a name. Sorry I had to dash off, but as I said, I was my daughter's taxi driver this evening. I called back into the park on the way home and the tern was still showing well at 7pm.

Thanks to Stevie Evans for the text alert in the first place.:t:

Malcolm

[IanF]

Saline Lagoon in the evening - Loads of Avocet again with seven chicks now. Lapwing with chicks as well. Also present Redshank, Canada Goose, Common Tern, Little Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper, Shelduck, Curlew, Swallow, Swift, Yellow Wagtail, Goldfinch and Common Whitethroat.

[Scuzz]

A few from around Hetton Lyons area today.

[NeilF]

Garganey pair asleep on small Island, wader lake, Washington WWT @13:00.

[StevieEvans]

The Official opening of DBC's Castle Lake Nature Reserve is next Sunday morning.

Sunday 24th May at 10AM.

Keys available on the day - £5.
(will edit to add directions to hide.............)

This past week :-

Another new species for the reserve:- 2 Turnstone went through (JO / JH), allways a good bird to find inland.

Others this week include :-

Blue Headed Wagtail (2 dates)
7+ Yellow Wagtail well into breeding now
3 pr GCGrebe
2m1f Pochard
3m1f Shoveller
couple of pairs of Shelduck
2 pr of Canadas with freshly arrived goslings (2 & 4)
male Corn Bunting singing almost non stop very close to hide, with a couple of others close by.
A passing Greenshank, visiting 3 of the local pools
Other passerines coming to feed close to hide include Blackbird, Chaffinch, Linnet, Great tit, Collared Dove, Goldfinch, Linnet, Reed Bunting, Yellowhammer.
1 pr of Oystercatcher breeding on nesting island
Little Ringed Plovers giving us the run around . . . 5 individuals present yesterday, but exact situation unclear . . .
couple of pairs of Lapwing
Lots of Swifts this last week & varying numbers of the 3 hirundines - 1 male Swallow coming very close to hide windows.
Also pr of Mute Swan, Curlew, Redshank, Whimbrel, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Little Grebes, several Coots nesting, Herons regularly floating over from nearby colony, Moorhen, Gadwall probably commonest wildfowl species,
Couple of adult BHGulls - possibly another colonist ?
Loafing, non breeders include up to 3Cormorant & Common, Herring & LBBGull.

One notable omission is Common Tern - hopefully they'll turn up soon.

Location of Hide :-
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432740&y=530718&z=115&sv=432740,530718&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432740&ay=530718&lm=0

NB: Sole access to the Hide is via this stile (prominent Black & White sign here)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432677&y=530874&z=115&sv=432677,530874&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432677&ay=530874&lm=0

Parking (outside farmyard)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432732&y=531260&z=115&sv=432732,531260&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432732&ay=531260&lm=0

Parking (the green triangle at Foulmarts Lane)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432634&y=531328&z=115&sv=432634,531328&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432634&ay=531328&lm=0

[IanF]

Seaton Common this morning - Yellow Wagtail, Wheatear, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Reed Bunting, Lapwing, Linnet.

From Zinc Works Road - Common Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, Stonechat, Linnet, Dunnock.

Another three Lesser Whitethroat at Cowpen Bewley W.Pk as well appearing to have set up territory.

Greenabella Marsh - Whinchat still present.

Photos: 1. Lesser Whitethroat - 2. Common Whitethroat - 3. Wheatear - 4. Yellow Wagtail - 5. Whinchat

[woodhornbirder]

DBC's Castle Lake Nature Reserve


how does one get there on public transport?

[StevieEvans]

DBC's Castle Lake Nature Reserve


how does one get there on public transport?

Hi
The reserve is just south of Bishop Middleham Village.
This link may be useful if you need to plan a regional journey by public transport

http://www.durham.gov.uk/pages/Service.aspx?ServiceId=902

If you can get to Durham City Bus Station on Sunday morning for 08:45, then the first bus to Bishop Middleham is the Arriva service 56A - getting you the Cross Keys in Bish Midd for 09:24 - less than a mile walk from there - should get you to the most comfortable hide in Northern England by 10AM.


cheers
Steve

[StevieEvans]

Passage migrants this morning in the far east of our Houghton study area include singles of Wood Sandpiper & Whinchat, in the Seaton Ponds area.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Passage migrants this morning in the far east of our Houghton study area include singles of Wood Sandpiper & Whinchat, in the Seaton Ponds area.

Hi Steve,
Could I ask where is Seaton Pond? I looked in the 2007 DBC anual report but couldn't find Seaton Pond.
Thank you,

[great bustard]

Hi Steve,
Could I ask where is Seaton Pond? I looked in the 2007 DBC anual report but couldn't find Seaton Pond.
Thank you,

Andrew,

Seaton Pond grid Ref below :news:

NZ386488

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Andrew,

Seaton Pond grid Ref below :news:

NZ386488

Cheers Ian.:t:

[Rare Visitor]

the most comfortable hide in Northern England .


What with this and the Hartlepool seawatchers building a structure to rival the Burgh el Arab, Durham birding seems awash with money, where's it all coming from?

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Durham birding seems awash with money, where's it all coming from?

DON'T BE ASKING THESE QUESTIONS!!!! ;);)3:-)


Also today at
Waldridge Fell/Daisy Hill:
Cuckoo, Linnet, Reed Bunting, Stonechat, Kestrel, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Skylark, Chiffchaff, Lapwing.

[StevieEvans]

What with this and the Hartlepool seawatchers building a structure to rival the Burgh el Arab, Durham birding seems awash with money, where's it all coming from?


just using some of the surplus generated from our local bird info services;)

[Jamie D]

What with this and the Hartlepool seawatchers building a structure to rival the Burgh el Arab

For the £300,000 it is going to cost to build it better be good. Our ships funnel work of art versing their sail. I also suspect that it might be the only seawatching hide in the country that might be listed as a work of art

[StevieEvans]

For the £300,000 it is going to cost to build it better be good. Our ships funnel work of art versing their sail. I also suspect that it might be the only seawatching hide in the country that might be listed as a work of art

Sounds very impressive - just make sure those arty types know which way the windows need to face ;)

------------------------------------------------------

This one falls just outside the Houghton Patch (consulted with with elastic boundaries commission ;) )
Cox Green:
Quail singing nr the golf course at 10AM at approx NZ337554. (SH / PA)

NB:
Very Limited parking; walk 500 yards East from the bridge along the disused railway.

[ian hamilton]

Tawny Owl and Sedge Warbler,both singing from barons quay,n.hylton at 0320.

Barmston Pond 0410-0455.
pr Little Grebe
Grey Heron
Mute Swan
pr Canada Goose
2 Drake Gadwall
4 Mallard
10 Coot
2 Moorhen
Swift
1-2 Sedge Warbler
2 m Blackcap
Willow Warbler
3 Chiffchaff
male Chaffinch
washington and n.hylton 0455-0615
Cormorant
Grey Heron
9 Shelduck at claxheugh rock
3 Mallard flew east
Herring Gull
Woodpigeon
Swift
Skylark
2 Swallow at ferryboat lane
Wren
Dunnock
Robin
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Sedge Warbler still singing fron barons quay
3 Blackcap
7 Whitethroat
2 Willow Warbler
Chiffchaff
Coal Tit
Magpie
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Linnet

Timber Beach 0615-0655.
1 Canada Goose
pr Shelduck
pr Oystercatcher
2 Curlew
7 Lesser Black-Backed Gull
4-6 Common Tern fishing
Blackcap
2 Whitethroat
5 Willow Warbler
Chiffchaff

[Rare Visitor]

For the £300,000 it is going to cost to build it better be good. Our ships funnel work of art versing their sail. I also suspect that it might be the only seawatching hide in the country that might be listed as a work of art

Wow, I hadn't appreciated the full extent of the cost when I made my original tongue in cheek envious comment. Will the average birder be able to afford the entry fee? and will we have to take our boots off at the door? Will there be Corporate seats and a Platinum Club on the top floor with it's own bar?
All jokes aside I take my hat off to the people behind raising that sort of cash for a seawatching hide I would be happy to extend an invitation to join me in my regular three star hide at Newbiggin, only one at a time and wear your old trousers as the floor occasionally smells of dog piss.

[Jamie D]

Will there be Corporate seats and a Platinum Club on the top floor with it's own bar?

You're not far off. Its even going to have a lift in it!

[StevieEvans]

Will there be Corporate seats and a Platinum Club on the top floor with it's own bar?

You're not far off. Its even going to have a lift in it!

Well, we dont need a lift as we have our observation point on an excellent raised spot, giving a great panoramic view ;)

Opportunity for anyone who cannot get through this Sunday to pop in at Castle Lake & have a sneak preview tomorrow WED 20 May.
The hide will be open from approx 12:00 -15:00 & keys available :t:

Steve, on behalf of DBC Conservation Team.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Rainton Meadows today produced the usual, however a year tick with Reed Warbler. About 3 where heard and 1 definatly seen.

[StevieEvans]

Nice to see a few people down today - giving the hide the seal of approval.:t:

Highlight was a Male Peregrine which came in low through over the lake, giving stunning close views, before spiralling high.
Passage birds hard to come by with 1 Ringed Plover & a Greenshank calling.
4+ Little Ringed Plover, pr Oystercatcher, 5 Yellow Wagtail, GCGrebe, Pochard, Shoveller etc.

Despite it being the "wrong" time of year, the feeding station (well its a bird table & scattered feed at the moment :eat:) with its S/F Hearts, had several visiting including Gold, Green & Chaffinch, Great Tit & Starlings including fledged juvenile.
The non-stop singing male Corn Bunting has eventually pulled in a mate, the pair were perched outside hide, with another singing close by.

We managed to notch up 43 species from our comfortable vantage point.

Back again tomorrow, same time same place - (12:00 - 15:00) if anyone else wants a look . . .

[IanF]

Nice to see a few people down today - giving the hide the seal of approval.:t:

Highlight was a Male Peregrine which came in low through over the lake, giving stunning close views, before spiralling high.
Passage birds hard to come by with 1 Ringed Plover & a Greenshank calling.
4+ Little Ringed Plover, pr Oystercatcher, 5 Yellow Wagtail, GCGrebe, Pochard, Shoveller etc.

Despite it being the "wrong" time of year, the feeding station (well its a bird table & scattered feed at the moment :eat:) with its S/F Hearts, had several visiting including Gold, Green & Chaffinch, Great Tit & Starlings including fledged juvenile.
The non-stop singing male Corn Bunting has eventually pulled in a mate, the pair were perched outside hide, with another singing close by.

We managed to notch up 43 species from our comfortable vantage point.

Back again tomorrow, same time same place - (12:00 - 15:00) if anyone else wants a look . . .

Will keys be available again tomorrow Steve?

I couldn't make it today but hopefully will call in tomorrow.

[IanF]

An early morning trek south of the county line to Danby Beacon yielded marvellous close views of Dotterel x6. They were 200m east along the track on a patch of last years burnt heather 40m from the track. After sitting on the heather for 20 mins they all came wandering over towards us coming within 5-6' at times! After about an hour they moved to the south side of the track. They've been present 3-4 days now. Last year they stayed about a week before moving on. Hopefully they'll be there for a few days yet.

Also seen - Red Grouse, Golden Plover, Kestrel, Lapwing, Curlew, Meadow Pipit, Skylark.

Heading home I stopped off at Lockwood Beck Reservoir following reports of a Spotted Flycatcher on the entrance track. Sure enough it was there feeding from the fence lines, telegraph wires and trees.

Photos: 1. & 2. Dotterel - 3. Spotted Flycatcher - 4. Red Grouse chick - 5. Red Grouse

[IanF]

On the way home I also stopped off at Charltons Pond, Billingham.

Drake Scaup on the main pond giving very close views at times. A little worrying that it picked up a carp bait and was dragged to shore where it was released and flew back to centre of pond. It swam around for a while before going to sleep at the north end of the pond.

Also present on the water Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Pochard, Cormorant, Common Tern, Coot, Moorhen, Mallard, Mute Swan.

Lots of woodland birds around - LTT, Blackcap, GSW Robin, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Blackbird, Thrush many with young.

Photos: 1. Scaup - 2. Pochard - 3. Common Tern & Cormorant - 4. Great Crested Grebe - 5. Long-tailed Tit

[IanF]

Also seen when checking local ponds today!

Two them present. Nice to see the odd one or two still around.

Photo: Ruddy Duck

[StevieEvans]

Will keys be available again tomorrow Steve?

I couldn't make it today but hopefully will call in tomorrow.

Ian, Yes, sorry i should have added that: Keys are available on site tomorrow.

Theres quite a few people who cant make it on Sunday - We'll be able to post hide keys out starting next week - (although its going to cheaper & easier all round if folks can collect them.)

We would like to encourage key-holders not to copy keys for friends, hoping people will come to the club for them, as there is a small profit from the sale of each one going into the Club Conservation Fund. :t:
Its also helpful to know exactly who has them for H&S and Insurance reasons (& if the lock ever gets changed - hopefully never)

If folks want to buy additional keys for friends thats fine.

Theres a bit of blanked off space inside the hide / cork board if visitors would like to bring & pin up their photographs / images etc.

Next stage is to try to get access through the boundary wall from the hard track (Foulmarts Lane) - with a bit of luck this will come off & will save trudging through the field in winter.

Hope everyone enjoys the hide & as ever any feedback from visitors is especially welcome.

Cheers
Steve.

[June Atkinson]

The Official opening of DBC's Castle Lake Nature Reserve is next Sunday morning.

Sunday 24th May at 10AM.

Keys available on the day - £5.
(will edit to add directions to hide.............)

This past week :-

Another new species for the reserve:- 2 Turnstone went through (JO / JH), allways a good bird to find inland.

Others this week include :-

Blue Headed Wagtail (2 dates)
7+ Yellow Wagtail well into breeding now
3 pr GCGrebe
2m1f Pochard
3m1f Shoveller
couple of pairs of Shelduck
2 pr of Canadas with freshly arrived goslings (2 & 4)
male Corn Bunting singing almost non stop very close to hide, with a couple of others close by.
A passing Greenshank, visiting 3 of the local pools
Other passerines coming to feed close to hide include Blackbird, Chaffinch, Linnet, Great tit, Collared Dove, Goldfinch, Linnet, Reed Bunting, Yellowhammer.
1 pr of Oystercatcher breeding on nesting island
Little Ringed Plovers giving us the run around . . . 5 individuals present yesterday, but exact situation unclear . . .
couple of pairs of Lapwing
Lots of Swifts this last week & varying numbers of the 3 hirundines - 1 male Swallow coming very close to hide windows.
Also pr of Mute Swan, Curlew, Redshank, Whimbrel, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Little Grebes, several Coots nesting, Herons regularly floating over from nearby colony, Moorhen, Gadwall probably commonest wildfowl species,
Couple of adult BHGulls - possibly another colonist ?
Loafing, non breeders include up to 3Cormorant & Common, Herring & LBBGull.

One notable omission is Common Tern - hopefully they'll turn up soon.

Location of Hide :-
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432740&y=530718&z=115&sv=432740,530718&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432740&ay=530718&lm=0

NB: Sole access to the Hide is via this stile (prominent Black & White sign here)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432677&y=530874&z=115&sv=432677,530874&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432677&ay=530874&lm=0

Parking (outside farmyard)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432732&y=531260&z=115&sv=432732,531260&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432732&ay=531260&lm=0

Parking (the green triangle at Foulmarts Lane)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=432634&y=531328&z=115&sv=432634,531328&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map.srf&searchp=ids.srf&dn=762&ax=432634&ay=531328&lm=0

Looking at the maps, this does not appear to be easy for anyone with mobility problems. Is there any nearer or more level access for those with a Blue Badge?

[StevieEvans]

Looking at the maps, this does not appear to be easy for anyone with mobility problems. Is there any nearer or more level access for those with a Blue Badge?


Next stage is to try to get access through the boundary wall from the hard track (Foulmarts Lane) - with a bit of luck this will come off & will save trudging through the field in winter.

Hi June,
To be honest it is difficult at the moment.

The easiest route is from:-
Parking (the green triangle at Foulmarts Lane) see above.

& come south 500metres down the hard track, although there are 2 stiles to negotiate past the padlocked 5bar gates.
Unfortunately this track doesnt belong to the landowners we are working with.

It will certainly be beneficial for us to try to get access through these locked gates in the future (stiles are public right of way)

We had hoped that we would be able to create access through from the hard level track to the West (Foulmarts Lane).
Unfortunately, the old boundary wall here is scheduled, but we are in touch with English Heritage to try to get access through it.

Nothings ever easy, but we will aim to try to get any visitor who wants, to the hide.

(If you want to give it a go this Sunday, we could get you to this point in one of our vehicles :-

NB: Sole access to the Hide is via this stile (prominent Black & White sign here)
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x...ay=530874&lm=0 (June - please use the link in your post - not working here...)

then there'd be 1 stile & @ 150 metres level walk to hide)
Give me a ring if you are gonna give it a try 07979 60 1231

Cheers
Steve

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Saltholme RSPB and surrounding area: Avocet 15c, Canada Goose, Whitethroat, Lapwing, Carrion Crow, Herring Gull, Cormorant, Common Tern, Shelduck 36c, Meadow Pipit, Mallard, Swift, Swallow, Great-black backed Gull, Goldfinch, Jackdaw, Tufted Duck, Yellow Wagtail, Little Egret 4-6c, Redshank, Gadwall, Coot, Moorhen, Starling, Grey Heron, Little Gull x2, Sandwich Tern x2, Pochard, Dunlin, Little Ringed Plover, Greylag Geese, Common Gull, Skylark, Great Crested Grebe.
Great-white Egret showing really well from Saltholme Pools hide, and Paddy’s Pool Hide.

Danby Beacon area: No sign at all of ant Dotterel. However there where Red Grouse, Golden Plover, Snipe, Pheasant, Wheatear then on the way back down the to the main road from Danby Beacon there was a Male Marsh Harrier appeared then shortly after a Short-eared owl came and they where seen together in the air at once!

Two lifers with Red Grouse and Great-white Egret. The Red Grouse was a confirmed lifer as I thought I had one on the last club trip in all fairness. So I will put my latest lifer as GWE.

[June Atkinson]

Gateshead Council has now taken over the running of Kitewatch.

Here are the details so far:

Kitewatch

Location: Derwent Walk Country Park, Gateshead,
Join Rangers and kite volunteers as they are on hand to point out red kites nesting and visible from Kite Hill.

Directions from Winlaton Mill car park to Kite Hill.

Dates of Kitewatch Events
07/06/2009 - 07/06/2009 11am - 3pm
13/06/2009 - 13/06/2009 11am - 3pm
28/06/2009 - 28/06/2009 11am- 3pm
11/07/2009 - 11/07/2009 11am - 3pm

Free - Open to all, just turn up
Contact Details: Thornley Woods Visitor Centre
Tel: 01207 545212

Be sure to take your camera and binoculars - viewing can be superb!:t:

[June Atkinson]

Red Kite Safari

19/07/09 - 19/07/09 1pm - 4pm
A 5 mile walk looking for red kites and learning about their reintroduction to the North East. Watch these magnificent birds soar above the Derwent Valley.

Family event, book in advance
Contact Details
Tel: 01207 545212
Email: countryside@gateshead.gov.uk

Price Details
£1 - Family event, book in advance

Further Details
Location: Thornley Woodlands Centre, Derwent Walk Country Park, Rowlands Gill, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, NE39 1AU

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Went to Langdon Beck today with my freind who is a fellow Durham Bird Club member: Black Grouse x10 showing well but distant. However later on away from Langdon Beck there was a bird sitting on the stone wall, no kidding about 10-15ft away from us in the car! These where my first ever Black Grouse and I am so glad I have finally seen Durham Bird Club's logo's bird. What a great bird at that!

[Johnny Allan]

Hi there,

I'm trying to find out which Counties still use the Watsonian Vice County system to record birds in and which go by whatever the political boundary may change to (and why).

The Watsonian Vice County system was set to accurately record and compare historical and modern data and it seems that there can be/is confusion when some counties no longer use this system whilst others do. Does anyone in your county have a view on this ? Discussion here if anyone has a comment:

http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=142074

ps this is not about getting more or less county ticks, more a question about uniformity in recording.

Johnny Allan

[StevieEvans]

Hi there,

I'm trying to find out which Counties still use the Watsonian Vice County system to record birds in and which go by whatever the political boundary may change to (and why).

The Watsonian Vice County system was set to accurately record and compare historical and modern data and it seems that there can be/is confusion when some counties no longer use this system whilst others do. Does anyone in your county have a view on this ? Discussion here if anyone has a comment:

http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=142074

ps this is not about getting more or less county ticks, more a question about uniformity in recording.

Johnny Allan


Hello Johnny Allan
Our County Bird Club, DBC use the Vice County system, unfortunately Bird Forum does not.

This must be confusing for some, i reckon thats one of the reasons there are umpteen folks in South Tyneside, Gateshead & North Cleveland who have no affinity whatever with their County Club.
Although the North Cleveland is an overlap area with our neighbours Teesmouth BC who dont follow the Watsonian system.
Nowadays both clubs share data for annual reports / conservation purposes. :t:
cheers
Steve

[IanF]

Hello Johnny Allan
Our County Bird Club, DBC use the Vice County system, unfortunately Bird Forum does not.

This must be confusing for some, i reckon thats one of the reasons there are umpteen folks in South Tyneside, Gateshead & North Cleveland who have no affinity whatever with their County Club.
Although the North Cleveland is an overlap area with our neighbours Teesmouth BC who dont follow the Watsonian system.
Nowadays both clubs share data for annual reports / conservation purposes. :t:
cheers
Steve

Actually Bird Forum does as far as this thread is concerned. However some local members for one reason or another prefer to post their sightings in a variety of threads for discussion. Hopefully the sightings are still submitted to the relevant County Recorder by whichever means.

[IanF]

Charltons Pond again today. Scaup still present and with a bit of patience and copious amounts of sunflower hearts it came closer to the bank for a change.

Also present - Great Crested Grebe x2, Little Grebe x2, Cormorant x1, Common Tern x2, Pochard x1, Tufted Duck, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Coot, Moorhen, Mallard.

LTT, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, GSW, Dunnock, Great Tit and Blue Tit all feeding young.

Swallow, Swift, House Martin and Sand Martin feeding over the water.

Quite a few butterflies around today - Green-veined White, Orange Tip, Speckled Wood, Small White, Painted Lady, Peacock.

Photos: 1. & 2. Scaup - 3. Pochard - 4. Long-tailed Tit - 5. Willow Warbler with Blue-tailed Damselfly

[StevieEvans]

Actually Bird Forum does as far as this thread is concerned. However some local members for one reason or another prefer to post their sightings in a variety of threads for discussion. Hopefully the sightings aes till submitted to the relevant County Recorder by whichever means.

Yeah, we all know which County this thread covers Ian m8 ;) but I was referring to this :-
North East England (31 Viewing)
Sub-Forums: Cleveland, Durham, Northumberland, Yorkshire, Tyne and Wear, North Sea
BirdForums use of defunct areas such as Cleveland & Tyne & Wear, which no longer exist in any way shape or form) - must obviously lead to some confusion.

Johnnny Allans asking BF readers about County bird recording & data, not where they post their bird sightings & chat.

You should have called down for your Castle Lake key the other day Ian - the hailstones & thunderstorms were very impressive 3:-)

--------------------------------------

Houghton area today
Locally scarce Green Woodpecker a pair seen today raising hopes of a breeding atempt, a passage Knot at Hetton Lyons, a Stork reported heading SW over Houghton.

---------------------------------------

Nightjars back in the west of the County - DBC hoping to arrange as full a census as possible this Summer

[IanF]

Yeah, we all know which County this thread covers Ian m8 ;) but I was referring to this :-

BirdForums use of defunct areas such as Cleveland & Tyne & Wear, which no longer exist in any way shape or form) - must obviously lead to some confusion.

Johnnny Allans asking BF readers about County bird recording & data, not where they post their bird sightings & chat.

You should have called down for your Castle Lake key the other day Ian - the hailstones & thunderstorms were very impressive 3:-)

--------------------------------------

Houghton area today
Locally scarce Green Woodpecker a pair seen today raising hopes of a breeding atempt, a passage Knot at Hetton Lyons, a Stork reported heading SW over Houghton.

---------------------------------------

Nightjars back in the west of the County - DBC hoping to arrange as full a census as possible this Summer

Then again your comment is hardly relevant as Bird Forum isn't involved with bird recording - as I'm sure you'll know that's down to the Bird Clubs and County Recorders through records submitted rather than sites such as this ;)

Some council services still use the defunct boundaries such as 'Cleveland Police' & 'Celveland Fire Brigade' so they do exist is some form still!

I guess those areas in the Bird Forum listings were in place when the site was set up and are here to stay - for the time being anyway! Areas such as Cleveland do form natural geographical/environmental areas even if they don't fit in with some bird club recording areas!

Maybe the defunct GPO should revert to vice-counties as well. As far as I'm concerned I still live in Cleveland. It doesn't seem right living in the UK and not being part of a County any more.

I set off to call at Castle Lake yesterday but was driven back by the weather - rain and hail was bad enough but lightning bolts was a bit too much! Got as far as half way to Sedgefield and turned back.

It was interesting to watch the effect of the weather on the birds at Charltons Pond. They didn't seem to mind the torrential rain hammering down but as soon as the hailstones came the ducks dived - even the dabblers - and then all headed for cover under the overhanging trees. The claps of thunder and lightning were a little too much for them and most took off in a bit of panic.

I'll try to get over to Castle Lake on Sunday for the opening day but it's a slim chance.

[StevieEvans]

Then again your comment is hardly relevant as Bird Forum isn't involved with bird recording - as I'm sure you'll know that's down to the Bird Clubs and County Recorders through records submitted rather than sites such as this ;)

Some council services still use the defunct boundaries such as 'Cleveland Police' & 'Celveland Fire Brigade' so they do exist is some form still!

I guess those areas in the Bird Forum listings were in place when the site was set up and are here to stay - for the time being anyway! Areas such as Cleveland do form natural geographical/environmental areas even if they don't fit in with some bird club recording areas!

Maybe the defunct GPO should revert to vice-counties as well. As far as I'm concerned I still live in Cleveland - much easier to add to an address than 'Borough of Stockton-on-Tees'. It doesn't seem right living in the UK and not being part of a County any more.

I set off to call at Castle Lake yesterday but was driven back by the weather - rain and hail was bad enough but lightning bolts was a bit too much! Got as far as half way to Sedgefield and turned back.

It was interesting to watch the effect of the weather on the birds at Charltons Pond. They didn't seem to mind the torrential rain hammering down but as soon as the hailstones came the ducks dived and then all headed for cover under the overhanging trees. The claps of thunder and lightning were a little too much for them and most took off in a bit of panic.

I'll try to get over to Castle Lake on Sunday for the opening day but it's a slim chance.


Not sure how long BF has been going :-
Cleveland only existed between 1974 and 1996
'Tyne and Wear' only existed between 1974 and 1986

Hope to see you on Sunday.

For anyone who cant make it, We can start to put keys in the post early next week.

Yours irrelevantly ;)

[Auntystatic]

I think this was covered last year but....

Tyne and Wear County Council was abolished in 1986 However, the metropolitan county continues to exist in law and as a geographic frame of reference.

Some organisations do not use Tyne and Wear as a county, instead retaining the historic boundary between Northumberland and County Durham. This includes particularly wildlife and biological recording groups, for whom the stability of recording boundaries is important for the maintenance of long-term records.

:cool:

[ColinSev]

Or maybe its the Tees Valley these days, who knows or cares!!!!

Called at Kinninvie 1st off - Parked near a level crossing and 2 Oystercatchers were going mad. Even though I was still sat in car. Opened the window to hear a young one calling - couldnt see it though. Then I noticed the calling was coming from the cattle grid where the young bird had fallen through. After a bit of chasing back and cross the road I managed to grab it and free it. Adults doing a broken wing trick - despite my help. My good deed for the day.
Blackton woods - Woodcock, loads of mistle thrushes and a buzzard.
Road near Eggleston Common - Ring Ouzel sat on wire, loads of Red Grouse
Tunstall wood - Garden Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, Nuthatch, GS Woodpecker.
Hope to get to Castle Lake tomorrow to get my key.
Cheers
Colin

[Boy Wonder]

Two Spoonbill and Great White Egret from Saltholme Pools Hide this morning. Reserve open 10:00 to 17:00

[Quacker]

Hi there,

I'm trying to find out which Counties still use the Watsonian Vice County system to record birds in and which go by whatever the political boundary may change to (and why).

The Watsonian Vice County system was set to accurately record and compare historical and modern data and it seems that there can be/is confusion when some counties no longer use this system whilst others do. Does anyone in your county have a view on this ? Discussion here if anyone has a comment:

http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=142074

ps this is not about getting more or less county ticks, more a question about uniformity in recording.

Johnny Allan

Birds do not recognise boundaries my friend. Even if they did I doubt they'd discriminate ;)

[IanF]

Greatham Creek this evening - 53 Shelduck on Tidal Pool. Lots of Common Tern and Avocet and a pair of Gadwall.

Cuckoo calling from The Long Drag and another at Dormans Pool. Several Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Whitethroat at Dormans Pool.

Scaup still at Charltons Pond.

Photos: 1. Reed Warbler - 2. Sedge Warbler - 3. Long-tailed Tit - 4. Avocet chick (oldest of the bunch) - 5. Avocet

[Scuzz]

A few from Crimdon today:

[AndyMc]

Managed to have a brief outing yesterday, first time out in weeks, just as the weather started closing in :-C so was very briefly at Greatham Creek. Parking up at the bridge, a Cuckoo was heard close by but not seen. Nice to finally see the Avocet chicks though too distant to snap them with any decency. Close to the bus stop hide, a Lapwing was single footedly keeping a close eye on it's offspring. The appendage was probably lost some time ago as there was no clues at the time, only noticing when going through my pics at home :eek!:.
A walk along the drag - plenty of shelduck, a pr of meadow pips, skylark, & a pr of avocets with ''teenagers''. Also possible distant Whimbrel? Looked smaller than a Curlew (1st pic if anyone can confirm/dismiss).

1. Whimbrel? 2 Stumpy 3 Jnr
_______________________________________
:t:Andy (must get out more)

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Also possible distant Whimbrel? Looked smaller than a Curlew (1st pic if anyone can confirm/dismiss).


Yep, that's a Whimbrel alright.:t:

[AndyMc]

Yep, that's a Whimbrel alright.:t:

Thanks Andrew :clap:
That's a first for me, not a bad hour after all then :t:. Pity I couldn't stalk it further. Note to self - Don't wear bright tie-dye t shirts.:-O

[phoen1x]

Hi guys, been following this thread from afar for a while. I'm a student at Durham University, so its interesting to see whats in the area. Saying that, I only really became interested in birds last year so I'm very much a beginner still - I don't get out much while I'm up here due to lack of transport etc, and so I probably see/hear more than I realise.
However, on Sunday I photographed a raptor at long range circling just outside Durham City, which has been identified for me as a Marsh Harrier. Thought you might be interested, and that prompted me to post.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Hi guys, been following this thread from afar for a while. I'm a student at Durham University, so its interesting to see whats in the area. Saying that, I only really became interested in birds last year so I'm very much a beginner still - I don't get out much while I'm up here due to lack of transport etc, and so I probably see/hear more than I realise.
However, on Sunday I photographed a raptor at long range circling just outside Durham City, which has been identified for me as a Marsh Harrier. Thought you might be interested, and that prompted me to post.

Hello and welcome to the thread from me.:hi:
Great record shot of the Marsh Harrier. Fantastic birds and hard to believe not so long ago they where down to just 1 pair nesting at Minsmere. Huge conservation success story when you think about it.:t:

[nightfly56]

Hi guys, been following this thread from afar for a while. I'm a student at Durham University, so its interesting to see whats in the area. Saying that, I only really became interested in birds last year so I'm very much a beginner still - I don't get out much while I'm up here due to lack of transport etc, and so I probably see/hear more than I realise.
However, on Sunday I photographed a raptor at long range circling just outside Durham City, which has been identified for me as a Marsh Harrier. Thought you might be interested, and that prompted me to post.

Hi & welcome to the forum, being in Durham take a walk along the riverside I visited a couple of weeks ago and was pleasantly surprised to see a Grey Heron, 2 little terns giving an excellent flying display and several Cormorants, of course sods law meant I was without my camera, (a rare event for me) needless to say next time the camera comes with me.

Mick

[IanF]

Not a lot of time to get out the last few days. A quick look out this evening though - Charltons Pond - Scaup still present along with GC Grebe x2, Common Tern x2, Little Grebe x2, GSW x2, Cormorant, Tufted Duck, Moorhen, Coot, Pochard.

Lots of birds in the trees and bushes - Song Thrush, Blackbird, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, House Sparrow, Dunnock, LTT, Great Tit, Blue Tit. A dozen or so Swift and House Martin feeding over the ponds.

Cuckoo by Billingham cemetery on the way home.

Sparrowhawk back in the garden this afternoon after an absence of several weeks.

Photos: 1. Pochard & Tufted Duck - 2. Great Crested Grebe - 3. House Sparrow - 4. Swift+fly - 5. Sparrowhawk

[StevieEvans]

Male Marsh Harrier north over Houghton Rough Dene early this aftnoon.

Fledged Dipper feeding on & around a LBBGull carcass at Lambton Bridge, with a single PFGoose & Kestrel nesting under the road bridge there.

[StevieEvans]

Now that the Castle Lake hide is officially opened, keys are selling quickly.
Available for collection or through the post.

(£6:00 inc postage).
OR
(£5:00 if collected)

One visitor writes:-
" Its got to be the most comfortable hide anywhere!!! What a lot of work you must have all done to get everything to that standard. A big thumbs up from me. "

why not come take a look . . . .

cheers
Steve.E
( mob 079 79 60 1231 )
( Email stevieevans "AT" btinternet.com )

-----------------------------------------------------

PS: Special thanks to the BF member who very kindly donated the Field Guides for the hide. :t:

[phoen1x]

Hi & welcome to the forum, being in Durham take a walk along the riverside I visited a couple of weeks ago and was pleasantly surprised to see a Grey Heron, 2 little terns giving an excellent flying display and several Cormorants, of course sods law meant I was without my camera, (a rare event for me) needless to say next time the camera comes with me.

Mick

Yes there's quite often a Grey Heron by the lower weir at Milburngate Bridge, and always a few cormorants on the large weir between Framwellgate and Milburngate Bridges. Also many sand martins nesting in the drainpipes and other holes in the river wall around and downstream of Milburngate Bridge. I didn't see the terns though!

Tim

[NeilF]

Hi guys, been following this thread from afar for a while. I'm a student at Durham University, so its interesting to see whats in the area

Hi & welcome to the forum.
If your feeling energetic I can highly recommend the walk from Durham City north up to Brasside Pond, a great birding area at any time of year.

[IanF]

Seaton Snook - am - Sandwich Tern c.40, Common Tern c.100, Ringed Plover x43, Sanderling x2.

Lots of Meadow Pipit, Skylark and Linnet in the dunes.

Seaton Common - Kestrel, Grey Heron x3, Little Egret, Reed Bunting, Yellow Wagtail, Sedge Warbler x3, Stonechat x2, Whitethroat x2, Dunnock x2. Lots more of Meadow Pipit, Linnet & Skylark.

Greenabella Marsh from substation - Whinchat, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting.

RSPB Saltholme - From Saltholme Hide GWE & Little Gull. Brent Goose reported but not seen by me.

Dormans Pool this evening - lots of Painted Lady butterflies and a few Common Blue, Wall, White, Green-veined White, Small Copper and a Dingy Skipper. A few damselflies and an orange bodied Chaser type dragonfly but only a fleeing glimpse as it headed over the embankment.

Photos: 1. Stonechat - 2. Linnet - 3. Skylark - 4. Whinchat - 5. Gadwall

[Scuzz]

A few from around Hetton Lyons area yesterday.

[StevieEvans]

Yes there's quite often a Grey Heron by the lower weir at Milburngate Bridge, and always a few cormorants on the large weir between Framwellgate and Milburngate Bridges. Also many sand martins nesting in the drainpipes and other holes in the river wall around and downstream of Milburngate Bridge. I didn't see the terns though!

Tim

daytime Otter sightings increasing on that stretch.

ditto Neils suggestion of a stroll to Brasside via Frankland Park Fms (little over a mile)
excellent variety of species:-
Grasshopper Warbler, Dabchick, Green Woodpecker, Tree Sparrow, Little Owl, Spotted Flycatcher, Nuthatch, Grey Partridge, Willow Tit, etc etc can all be found in this area

In fact, in the DBC Summer Breeding Atlas that general area (within the 10km square NZ24) was very well represented indeed.

cheers
Steve

[Fat Paul Scholes]

Stevie evans is the real expert on the area, but back in a bygone era I used to visit Brasside frequently as well. On top of all the brilliant residents Stevie lists, my visits to Brasso have turned up black tern, blue headed wagtail, yellow legged gull, redstart, mandarin, green sandpiper and lots of other goodies....if you're interested in taking up a local patch, I couldn't recommend it highly enough. It's about time it got a little more attention too!

ATB,

Mark

[James Thomas]

Keep your eyes on the sky, poss. White tailed Eagle in Derbyshire at 12:45 and I've just seen a big raptor very high up heading North about 5 miles below Leeds. Probably not even the same bird but hey! if it passes through you've had a heads up.

[NeilF]

Managed to squeeze in an hours birding this evening after work;
Oystercatcher pair with young, 4 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper and the male Corn Bunting still singing his heart out.
All viewed from the most comfortable and luxurious hide in Durham, even comes with air conditioning or shutters as they are more commonly known ;)

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Keep your eyes on the sky, poss. White tailed Eagle in Derbyshire at 12:45 and I've just seen a big raptor very high up heading North about 5 miles below Leeds. Probably not even the same bird but hey! if it passes through you've had a heads up.

I shall certainly be keeping my eyes open.:t:

[Boy Wonder]

Immature Purple Heron flew into Haverton Reedbed yesterday at 20:30 but no sign so far today. The area is viewable from the High Ground at Haverton Viewpoint which will be accessible from the Reserve during opening hours, 10:00-17:00. View only from footpaths. The Haverton Gate will be closed at 16:45 to allow visitors to pass back through the Visitor Centre to leave. Please note: the wetland areas in this vicinity are protected through SPA and SSSI designation. Disturbing birds in this area is an offence.

[StevieEvans]

Managed to squeeze in an hours birding this evening after work;
Oystercatcher pair with young, 4 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper

and the male Corn Bunting still singing his heart out.

All viewed from the most comfortable and luxurious hide in Durham, even comes with air conditioning or shutters as they are more commonly known ;)

Reassuring to know that the sound of "keys jangling" isnt restricted to when the doors being unlocked :t:
& long may it continue . . . . .

The RSPB Volunteer & Farmer Alliance Project are looking for volunteers to survey Durham farms in key Corn Bunting areas.
With the help of specialist RSPB advisors, farms which have confirmed Corn Bunting territories will immediately begin the process of implementing crucial management measures for this species (eg establishing unharvested cereal crops to provide a year-round food source) and other farmland birds through the Higher Level Stewardship scheme.

Anyone wanting a Castle Lake Hide key should send a cheque for six pound, made payable to Durham Bird Club & send it to :-
DBC
c/o 4, Leyburn Close,
Houghton-le-Spring
DH4 5EF

or phone me up to 23:00 on :- 079 79 six zero 1231 to arrange delivery / collection.

NB:
Just to clarify, Non members are welcome to purchase keys :t:

---------------------------------------------

a Hobby northwards at Hetton Lyons today

[IanF]

Immature Purple Heron flew into Haverton Reedbed yesterday at 20:30 but no sign so far today. The area is viewable from the High Ground at Haverton Viewpoint which will be accessible from the Reserve during opening hours, 10:00-17:00. View only from footpaths. The Haverton Gate will be closed at 16:45 to allow visitors to pass back through the Visitor Centre to leave. Please note: the wetland areas in this vicinity are protected through SPA and SSSI designation. Disturbing birds in this area is an offence.

Was around again in the afternoon around 12.15. I arrived too late and then left too early :-Cas it was seen again at around 4.30pm

[phoen1x]

Hi & welcome to the forum.
If your feeling energetic I can highly recommend the walk from Durham City north up to Brasside Pond, a great birding area at any time of year.

Thanks, I might look at going up there. The Durham Wildlife Trust site says you have to ask permission before going there - is that the case?

Tim

[StevieEvans]

Thanks, I might look at going up there. The Durham Wildlife Trust site says you have to ask permission before going there - is that the case?

Tim

there are 2 ponds seperated by an Oak tree clad "causeway".
The smaller pond & surrounds, adjacent to the Jail is Home Office property & officially permission is required for access, although local people often walk round.... This is the area that is managed by DWT.

But, You can visit the site without any permission, as you can view both ponds quite adequately from the "causeway" - the larger pool having a permissive path right round the waters edge.

If you go & have any difficulty please feel free to give me a buzz 07979 six zero 1231.

[Kinghorn the bird brain.]

Was around again in the afternoon around 12.15. I arrived too late and then left too early :-Cas it was seen again at around 4.30pm

Went today with fellow friend and member Stew and we missed it by 5 mins as locals from I think it was Port Clarence went into the pool with a boat and spooked it!:C
So we didn't see it....:-C

[StevieEvans]

Managed a couple of hours birding nr Seaton Pond this evening.

Couple each of Barn & Long-eared Owls hunting from 21:00.

Viewing from range with a scope, the Barn Owls went into a large deciduous where the male followed his mate, chasing & flying within the canopy.
Quite comical at times - he grasped the trunk with bill & talons - walking up steep angled limbs like a juvenile, while fluttering his wings.
Turned through 180 degrees while watching the BO's, to see a Long-eared hunting within 20 metres of us - i inadvertently made a noise with my tripod, the owl looked round gave a female type alarm call in flight, continuing to hunt, circling back to come past us again.

Others inc:- numerous Grasshopper Warblers reeling, 1 Cuckoo singing, fledged Lapwings beating about, several Herons

cheers
Steve

[barnstormer]

Just a quick question,where's the best place in the durham area to see any species of buzzard.

[ian hamilton]

Timber Beach 0545-0700;
Cormorant
2 Mute Swan
pr Shelduck with 4 ducklings near the crethauser also upto 4prs at claxheugh rock
pr Oystercatcher
3 Curlew
Herring Gull
3prs Lesser Black-Backed Gull
Common Tern
Woodpigeon
Wren
Dunnock
Robin
Blackbird
Song Thrush
m Blackcap
Lesser Whitethroat
2 Common Whitethroat
4 Willow Warbler
2 Chiffchaff
Long Tailed Tit
Magpie
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Goldfinch
m Reed Bunting
Grey Squirrel seen only briefly

[IanF]

Just a quick question,where's the best place in the durham area to see any species of buzzard.

They're becoming pretty widespread nowadays. Not sure if its the best area but in the areas I visit Teesdale is pretty reliable for them nowadays on the moors anywhere around Hamsterley Forest - Eggleston Common- above Middleton-in-Teesdale. Likewise the west side of the dale.

They're even in residence down my corner of the County at a couple of locations.

[StevieEvans]

Had a look up Weardale today, very difficult woodland birding in the heat of the day.
Managed to see Pairs of Redstart & Pied Flycatcher attending nests.
Others seen included Green Woodpecker, Tree Pipit, Spotted Flycatcher, pathside Woodcock, Cuckoo, male Siskin, Buzzard, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, GCGrebe, Common Sandpiper.

Closer to home we saw a couple of these Banded Demoiselle dragonflys at close range (pic DK)

[Jonathan Hare]

Speckled Headed Blackbird

While waiting for my dad today. I was outside of Stranton Church, Hartlepool at about 2ish. I saw this blackbird fly towards me. Luckily it was foraging around for food for a couple of mins so I was able to grab 2 shots. Here is one of the images, cropped in so to bring the detail out.

[StevieEvans]

Speckled Headed Blackbird

While waiting for my dad today. I was outside of Stranton Church, Hartlepool at about 2ish. I saw this blackbird fly towards me. Luckily it was foraging around for food for a couple of mins so I was able to grab 2 shots. Here is one of the images, cropped in so to bring the detail out.

We have a White Rumped Blackbird which would appear to have aspirations of pretending to be a rare wheatear species.

Quail singing close to Seaton Pond this evening (SE / AS / IS)

[great bustard]

We have a White Rumped Blackbird which would appear to have aspirations of pretending to be a rare wheatear species.

Quail singing close to Seaton Pond this evening (SE / AS / IS)
IL ;)

[StevieEvans]

IL ;)

Sorry to hear you're Ill marra ;)

"IS" ? how did i manage that ? musta mistook you for that flukey bloke from Sacriston

While we're on the topic of Initials, Its a pity i dont know the initials of the person whose been ringing my home phone at 3 & 4 in the morning . . .

20mins at DBC's Castle Lake Hide this aftnoon

3Teal passing through
3LRP
half a dozen Tree Sparrows in the farmyard
5Shoveller
cock Linnet feeding his mate
various Yellow Wagtails bounding about in several directions
pair of Kestrel soaring together
male Corn Bunting at the hide
Common Whitethroat in display flight in front of hide
good nos of hirundines including a couple of family parties of Sand Martin - amazing to see the adult twist its head & feed the accompanying fledged young in full flight.

[andyg]

Will be moving from Lanchester very soon, just thought i'd list the birds we've had in the garden over the last 4 years.

Blue,Great, Coal, Long Tail Tits
Gold, Green, Chaff, Bullfinches
Siskin, nuthatch, Treecreeper
Dunnock, Song Thrush, Blackbird
Robin, Wren, Starling
Crow, Jackdaw, Magpie
WoodPigeon, Collared Dove
Goldcrest, Chiff Chaff, Redpoll
Greater Spotted Woodpecker.

and the tenuous ones.

Waxwings in the shrubs just outside the garden
Swift and Canada Geese in our air space
Tawny and Little Owl possibly calling from our trees rather than ones a little further away.

Looking forward to see what we can attract to our new garden