Derbyshire County Birding

[mooskibaby]

This thread is aimed at people who have visited, or live in Derbyshire. With this thread you can talk about your local area in Derbyshire, talk about the latest sightings, and enjoy talking to people in your area.

I hope everyone enjoys it, and hopefully, we can give advice on helping wildlife in the area. This would be very good.

Hope to hear from some of you soon!o:D

[mooskibaby]

The other day i went to Stange Heath, and saw Ring Ouzels, this was great seen as i had never seen one before. After leaving Stanage i went off to Padley Gorge (sorry if thats not Derbyshire but it's close enough), and saw redstarts. At Padley Gorge you can also see Pied Flycatchers, which i saw at the same spot, yet last year.
You should take a trip there sometime, it's great. Stanage Heath is moorland, so you get, stonechat, wheatears, and meddow pipits (a lot of), and of course Ring Ouzels.
While Padley Gorge, is moorland, woodland, and there is river/stream running through the woods which attracts Dippers.
It's well worth the trip. After searching in the woods at Padley Gorge take a trip to the cafe by the railway station, sit and have a cup of tea and relax and enjoy the scenery. You get grey wagtails at the cafe as well, they are nesting there at the moment i think. They take there lives into there own hands, they jump and fly around all over the railway track. They fly away a few metres before the train is near them. It's frightening to watch, but they seem to be used to it.

[DGRW]

There's a potentially excellent little site in South Derbyshire known locally as Nadins Pond (regularly cited on DOS website).

Three pools, a Marshy area, a brook and reedbed area surrounded by what is, at present, rough grassland. Left alone or with a little help, this site could easily become an excellent reserve.

Species that I observe there regularly include Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Yellowhammer, Skylark, Lapwing, Tawny Owl, Little Grebe, Coot, Moorhen, Grey Heron, Mute Swan, Tufted Duck and a few other assorted water-fowl.

You can also occasionally see Common Sandpiper and Redshank there.

This year we've also had Ring Necked Duck, Wood Sandpiper and another potential breeder that can't be mentioned.

A nightingale was also present in a nearby long disused and marvellously overgrown claypit at the end of April.

Ground breeding birds have been partially successful there this year with plenty of broods of skylark, several broods of Lapwing and of course the good old Coots ruling the roost and the other assorted regulars.

The unmentionable one, as far as I know, didn't manage to breed successfully this year although at least two adult and a female were consistently present earlier in the year and appeared to have chosen a favourite patch.

There is a bit of a problem with human interference and predation by (I assume) the foxes and rats that also share the site.

It's not a dramatic site and usually offers a fairly average variety of species but potentially it could be very good as another local wild-life haven.

The problem: Civic amenities including a golf course as planned for the not too distant future.

Yes; civic amenities are important and we do have many other excellent Derbyshire wildlife sites, it does seem rather a shame to "waste" it though.

[foxwood]

This thread is aimed at people who have visited, or live in Derbyshire. With this thread you can talk about your local area in Derbyshire, talk about the latest sightings, and enjoy talking to people in your area.

I hope everyone enjoys it, and hopefully, we can give advice on helping wildlife in the area. This would be very good.

Hope to hear from some of you soon!o:D

Hi Anna

Pleased to see you've set up this thread. Best of luck with it. I'm sure it'll attract a lot of interest :t:

Although I live in Staffordshire I'm not far from the border and I do venture into Derbyshire quite frequently. I'll be keeping a close eye on this thread and I'm sure I'll learn a lot. I certainly intend to take a trip to Padley Gorge sometime soon. It sounds great!

Mike

[Gomphus]

Anna,

Thanks for starting up this tread. I see it getting use in the winter months particularly with Gull information etc!

Padley is in Derbys the border runs across the top of the valley I believe! Earlier in the year we saw Pied Flys in reasonable numbers on the far side of the valley from the cafe, walk over the railway and turn R up the track past the cottages. One worrying thing is there seem to be an ever decreasing number of Wood Warblers in this area, I have only heard of one record here... does anyone know better? I know they are present in other areas but the numbers do to me seem to be falling year on year. I heard of several in the Matlock area in the spring but did they stay to breed I wonder. My old local locations for this species are now silent!

Will see if i see anything up at Carsington later, called in the other night but the water is very high, hope this has not flooded out any wader nests etc...

Over the years Derbyshire has lost some excellent wetland habitats when Quarrys were filled in in the south of the county (Etwall Quarry for instance), I hope Civic Amenities are not going to impinge on another....

We have some good gravel pits but access is always going to be difficult at these locations.

All the best

[mooskibaby]

Thanks. So did anyone see anything good at Carsington today then?

[Dean Powell]

Hi Anna,

Well done for starting this thread. I live in Cheadle, Staffordshire Moorlands, 20 minutes from the border. I will keep a close eye on the thread and please have a look at the Staffordshire Moorlands thread. I go to both areas for walks and birding.

I will learn a lot from this thread and will post information in the future when I go birding on your patch.

Thanks

Dean

[mooskibaby]

Thanks Dean. Do you know of any good bird sites where you are? It may possibly be best to email me these, if you've got any because this is not about Derbyshire.

[Gomphus]

Hi all,

Did Carsington very briefly Friday pm, only got to the WLCentre area but was pleased to see that the first summer pair of Black-headed Gulls still had two small young dispite their island shrinking rapidly in the rising water! The other pair of adult birds were sitting tight on the tern raft so I couldn't see what was going on. These birds may prove a mixed blessing as they could put off the Terns! However the Common tern on the new raft off the WLC got up a couple of times and I was able to see at least one youngsters head peeping over the edge!
Other than that the usual birds were present, with good numbers of Tree Sparrow calling around the box scheme and a few youngsters on the feeders. I am pleased to note Willow Tit has also been successful on site!

The water is extremely high and I am worried for any edge nesters like grebes, I fear they may have been flooded out.

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Hi all,

Did Carsington very briefly Friday pm, only got to the WLCentre area but was pleased to see that the first summer pair of Black-headed Gulls still had two small young dispite their island shrinking rapidly in the rising water! The other pair of adult birds were sitting tight on the tern raft so I couldn't see what was going on. These birds may prove a mixed blessing as they could put off the Terns! However the Common tern on the new raft off the WLC got up a couple of times and I was able to see at least one youngsters head peeping over the edge!
Other than that the usual birds were present, with good numbers of Tree Sparrow calling around the box scheme and a few youngsters on the feeders. I am pleased to note Willow Tit has also been successful on site!

The water is extremely high and I am worried for any edge nesters like grebes, I fear they may have been flooded out.

Cheers

It's very worrying, isn't it that a lot of edge nesting birds may not have a brood this year isn't it.
Did you see the willow tit?
Go along to sheepwash car park next time you go there are 2 hides by there near the car park and they are good for woodpeckers, nuthatches and jays. There is a family of mute swans there at the moment to.

[JimMorris]

Did you see the willow tit?

It's great to see a thread on Derbyshire. I only live a few miles from the border and visit quite often, also a member of Carsinton bird club. Here is a photo of the Willow Tit (Ithink) taken at one of the hides near the Sheepwash car park.

[mooskibaby]

Great picture Jim of the willow tit. Did you take the picture at the hide?

[Gomphus]

Great picture Jim of the willow tit. Did you take the picture at the hide?

Looks like the PS Hide Jim...that willow fencing is very familiar! Glad to see your a member of CBC! I didn't see the WT yesterday but know they have bred...we have an up and coming project with these birds at Carsington as an extension of the very successful Nestbox scheme! We have many areas that are suitable for WT on site and are working with STW to make sure they are successful along with everything else!

Usually do all the res' but had to sort out other things up there yesterday!

To all visiting Carsington can I ask you visit the CBC website and add your sightings? Its now really easy! Plus Our recorder Roger Carrington would be glad to receive sightings from the reservoir.

http://www.carsingtonbirdclub.co.uk/cbc/index.asp

The CBC works hard to produce a report each year and record the birds etc, we need all your support, why not come along to one of our meetings if you are not a member?

Ok plugs over!!!

Cheers

[JimMorris]

Great picture Jim of the willow tit. Did you take the picture at the hide?

Yes, not sure if it was the first or second hide. The Woody was also taken there. I must pay a visit there as soon as it stops raining. Anyone wanting a lift from the Stoke area to join the Carsinton bird club or a wander around the reservior send me a PM.
HAPPY BIRDING
Jim

[Steve Seal]

[QUOTE=DGRW;930255]There's a potentially excellent little site in South Derbyshire known locally as Nadins Pond (regularly cited on DOS website).

Three pools, a Marshy area, a brook and reedbed area surrounded by what is, at present, rough grassland. Left alone or with a little help, this site could easily become an excellent reserve.

Hi
My names Steve and i live in Warwickshire and i recently visited Nadins pond to photograph the Ring necked Duck .I totally agree with the statement above and think something should be done to protect this excellent site.
Its already had some superb birds , but on my visit noticed alot of disturbance
from Jo public, ie dog walkers and motor bikers. Not knocking these people but there are other places to do your thing, leave places like this to the birds.
What do you locals think ?:t:
Regards Steve.........

[Gomphus]

Yes, not sure if it was the first or second hide. The Woody was also taken there. I must pay a visit there as soon as it stops raining. Anyone wanting a lift from the Stoke area to join the Carsinton bird club or a wander around the reservior send me a PM.
HAPPY BIRDING
Jim

Jim, I'm sure it would be the Paul Stanley hide, the second one. Thats the place to see Willow Tit at Carsi... The feeders also attract good numbers of commoner birds like the Woodies etc. Also that wattle fencing is like that there.

On an asside I hear the Yellow-legged Gulls (mostly immatures in varying numbers) are still in the Swarkestone area, near the Fishermans carpark I believe. There has been a record of Caspian Gull here too in the last week or so.

Cheers

[Mike Feely]

One worrying thing is there seem to be an ever decreasing number of Wood Warblers in this area, I have only heard of one record here... does anyone know better?

Went to Padley yesterday - my first visit, primarily to fill the big Pied Flycatcher shaped hole in my life list (sucessful!). We had at least 2 separate Wood Warblers calling from different areas of the wood.

A walk aolng the river also showed up Redstart (a cracking male singing from the top of a couple of trees), Whinchat, Stonechat, Dipper, Grey Wag.

Couldn't find any Red Grouse on Beeley Moor though (although the weather was dire!).

Anna, I live just over the border in North Notts & will also be keeping a close eye on this thread!

Cheers

Mike

[Gomphus]

Went to Padley yesterday - my first visit, primarily to fill the big Pied Flycatcher shaped hole in my life list (sucessful!). We had at least 2 separate Wood Warblers calling from different areas of the wood.

A walk aolng the river also showed up Redstart (a cracking male singing from the top of a couple of trees), Whinchat, Stonechat, Dipper, Grey Wag.

Couldn't find any Red Grouse on Beeley Moor though (although the weather was dire!).

Anna, I live just over the border in North Notts & will also be keeping a close eye on this thread!

Cheers

Mike

Excellent news, maybe I am just behind in my info this year then, although I didn't get one earlier in the year there so...maybe they were later in.

Congrats on Pied Fly, I often think they get harder the longer the summer goes on, after feeding the young they seem to head highter into the tree tops and get harder?

Cheers

[John Eaton]

Went down to Willington GP this pm hoping the water had gone down. The track up Meadow Lane is still flooded around the entrance, so drove up to the lane nearer to Willigton and walked the track from there. Once down to Meadow Lane (at the beginning of the reserve) though you need wellies to walk down further to the viewing platforms. Only bird of real note was a Hobby.

John

[mooskibaby]

Looks like the PS Hide Jim...that willow fencing is very familiar! Glad to see your a member of CBC! I didn't see the WT yesterday but know they have bred...we have an up and coming project with these birds at Carsington as an extension of the very successful Nestbox scheme! We have many areas that are suitable for WT on site and are working with STW to make sure they are successful along with everything else!

Usually do all the res' but had to sort out other things up there yesterday!

To all visiting Carsington can I ask you visit the CBC website and add your sightings? Its now really easy! Plus Our recorder Roger Carrington would be glad to receive sightings from the reservoir.

http://www.carsingtonbirdclub.co.uk/cbc/index.asp

The CBC works hard to produce a report each year and record the birds etc, we need all your support, why not come along to one of our meetings if you are not a member?

Ok plugs over!!!

Cheers


Wheres the PS hide at Carsington?

[mooskibaby]

Yes, not sure if it was the first or second hide. The Woody was also taken there. I must pay a visit there as soon as it stops raining. Anyone wanting a lift from the Stoke area to join the Carsinton bird club or a wander around the reservior send me a PM.
HAPPY BIRDING
Jim

Thats also a lovely picture Jim. I wish i was that good at photographing birds.

[mooskibaby]

Went to Padley yesterday - my first visit, primarily to fill the big Pied Flycatcher shaped hole in my life list (sucessful!). We had at least 2 separate Wood Warblers calling from different areas of the wood.

A walk aolng the river also showed up Redstart (a cracking male singing from the top of a couple of trees), Whinchat, Stonechat, Dipper, Grey Wag.

Couldn't find any Red Grouse on Beeley Moor though (although the weather was dire!).

Anna, I live just over the border in North Notts & will also be keeping a close eye on this thread!

Cheers

Mike


Hi Mike, where abouts did you see the Pied Flycatchers? I've seen them before but last time i went i couldn't see one. Is it best to see them on the side of the river nearest to the cafe?

[Mark Harper]

Whereabouts did you see the Pied Flycatchers? I've seen them before but last time i went i couldn't see one. Is it best to see them on the side of the river nearest to the cafe?

You can see them on both sides of the river, but generally I find them easier to see on the opposite side of the river from the cafe. This also seems the best side for Wood Warblers and when I was last there a few weeks ago I got the attached photo of one.

[JimMorris]

Nice photo Mike, they are a hard bird to catch with the camera.
Anna, I've got more bad photos than good ones, keep at it girl, you will get better.

[Dean Powell]

Hi Jim,

I know that you have got a lot of good photo's as well as I have seen them.

Mark, that is an excellent photo.

Anna, well done your Derbyshire County Birding thread is up and running.

Dean

Cheadle Birder

[DGRW]

Steve - Re: Nadins Pool -
What do you locals think ?
Regards Steve.........
In fairness: this whole site has been earmarked for civic use for around twenty years or so. There was a coal mine on the site, then open-cast, then a waste tip and now it's awaiting the final few steps; golf course etc.

A lot of work has gone into that whole south Derbyshire area in the last ten years. Being at the heart of the new national forest; the number of areas that have been planted up with trees or otherwise improved for biodiversity is fairly amazing and obviously very welcome. The south Derbyshire that I see now and the potential is a very far cry from the post industrial wasteland that I first found thirty or so years ago; pit-heads, smoke, coal dust everywhere and huge slag and waste heaps wherever you looked. Another ten and twenty years from now, south Derbyshire will be a very nice place indeed thanks to all of the work that's gone on during the last ten years.

Nadins pond is a potentially excellent site, unfortunately I think that it would be wishful thinking to hope that it will become any kind of nature reserve. I suppose that the people of Swadlincote could be forgiven for playing golf and walking their dogs there (not the idiots on motorbikes though) when I think also of the huge amount of other local work that has occurred in the last ten years for ecology and environmental improvement.

Nadins Pond as a nature reserve would be nice but if I'm completely honest I don't think that it would be the greatest of losses to the areas ecological potential. It is a shame though that it will probably become something as sterile as a golf course.

I popped into Willington GP last night; access still difficult due to high water levels, it'll be interesting to see the damage when the water goes down a bit more. It'll recover soon enough I guess but I would imagine that all of the nesting warblers and waders have had a rough ride. The Anglers won't be too chuffed either.

Sorry Anna, I forgot to mention; thanks for starting the thread.

[mooskibaby]

You can see them on both sides of the river, but generally I find them easier to see on the opposite side of the river from the cafe. This also seems the best side for Wood Warblers and when I was last there a few weeks ago I got the attached photo of one.

Thats a lovely photo

[Gomphus]

Wheres the PS hide at Carsington?

Anna,

There are four hides at Carsington, the Wildlife Centre (WLC) the glassed central heated one near the Visitor Centre C/pk, the Lane Ends Hide which is about half way between Visitor Centre C/pk and Sheepwash C/pk, then the two near Sheepwash C/pk, the first is Sheepwash Hide itself the second is the Paul Stanley Hide (PSHide), the latter is the one with the feeders on the track down behind the hide where you get Willow Tit etc.

Sorry if I didn't make myself clear, so used to abreviating things up there!

By the way... Cracking Wood Warbler shot above!

[Tim Allwood]

I'll be popping 'home' in three weeks time or so, for a day or two.

anyone know if Wood Warblers can still be seen at Ryder Point / Hopton Quarry?

Tim

[Gomphus]

I'll be popping 'home' in three weeks time or so, for a day or two.

anyone know if Wood Warblers can still be seen at Ryder Point / Hopton Quarry?

Tim

Not sure Tim, not heard of any but I'll ask round and get back to you if I hear anything, Steve Mann had some in the spring round Matlock Forest as well.

cheers

[Mike Feely]

Hi Anna

I'm not sure where we were in relation to the cafe.

We parked along the road just north of the woods overlooking the meadow & moorland (Lawrences Field?) and walked back through the woods on the other side of the river.

We heard a Wood Warbler not long after getting into the Oakwoods proper, but the Pied Fly (& another Woody) were a quite a way further along the path.

We then walked north along the river towards the road bridge - Redstart, Whinchat, Stonechat & Dipper along here.

Popped into the cafe after for a very welcome mug of tea and a rather fine bacon & sausage cob!

Mike

[John Eaton]

I'll be popping 'home' in three weeks time or so, for a day or two.

anyone know if Wood Warblers can still be seen at Ryder Point / Hopton Quarry?

Tim

Hi Tim,

Not heard of them at Hopton for ages. Best bets are Padley or Goyt. You'll get a fix of Pied Fly's as well, and both are nicer to walk in my opinion.

John

[mooskibaby]

Anna,

There are four hides at Carsington, the Wildlife Centre (WLC) the glassed central heated one near the Visitor Centre C/pk, the Lane Ends Hide which is about half way between Visitor Centre C/pk and Sheepwash C/pk, then the two near Sheepwash C/pk, the first is Sheepwash Hide itself the second is the Paul Stanley Hide (PSHide), the latter is the one with the feeders on the track down behind the hide where you get Willow Tit etc.

Sorry if I didn't make myself clear, so used to abreviating things up there!

By the way... Cracking Wood Warbler shot above!

Thanks Gomphus.
I no where you mean now. I went there last week and saw a Jay and the time before that i saw a great spotted woodpecker. What else can you see around that area?

[mooskibaby]

I'll be popping 'home' in three weeks time or so, for a day or two.

anyone know if Wood Warblers can still be seen at Ryder Point / Hopton Quarry?

Tim

Hi Tim at Hopton Hill, a few months back, there were some wood warblers and also a woodcock. Yet that one was a few months back. Yet i just thought i would let you know so that you at least know that they have been seen this year.

[mooskibaby]

The other day to went to Ogston and the place has really come to life over the last few weeks. There has been garden warblers, willow warblers, sedge warblers, reed warblers, chiffchaffs, whitethroats.
Have any of you been to Ogston recentely? If not you should go and have a look.

[John Eaton]

Got me wellies out and went down to Willington GP to see the damage. The lane is still flooded up to about 9 inches in places.
Needless to say the tern and BH Gull nesting colonies have been destroyed. In fact just the tops of the islands are showing, and the new scrapes are totally under water. Most of the gulls and terns appear to have relocated to the new workings. I'll take a walk up the canal tomorrow to look over the new workings to see if the birds are trying again there.

[mooskibaby]

Got me wellies out and went down to Willington GP to see the damage. The lane is still flooded up to about 9 inches in places.
Needless to say the tern and BH Gull nesting colonies have been destroyed. In fact just the tops of the islands are showing, and the new scrapes are totally under water. Most of the gulls and terns appear to have relocated to the new workings. I'll take a walk up the canal tomorrow to look over the new workings to see if the birds are trying again there.

It's upsetting isn't it John. Do you think that they will try again this year for more young ( second brood ).

In the last brood from the tern and the BH gull, did the chicks hatch?

[John Eaton]

Anna,

TBH I hadn't been down for a couple of weeks before the floods came so don't know if they had hatched. Don't think they will try again now.
Went along the canal to the 'new' workings yesterday morning and there were no gulls or terns up there, though I did see 4 Common Sands.
Went up on the footbridge over the railway and had fun watching a Whitethroat feeding in the middle of the railway lines for 10 minutes. Guess the stones had warmed up in the early sun and attracted the bugs. Also had 4 Oystercatchers on the fields at the back of the reserve from the bridge.

John

[Gomphus]

Re the Wood Warblers, there are a couple in Hall Dale too, apparantly the ones in Matlock Forest have moved on.

Anna whereabouts at the Hopton Hill area did you get them earlier? (where exactly do you mean by Hopton Hill?)

As regards The Paul Stanley area of Carsington, we get Spotted Fly down there sometimes, and if you are really lucky Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Plus you do get fantastic views of common birds on the feeders. It also can be a good hide to view the gull roost from (in the winter) if the winds in the right direction, they take shelter in the early part of the gathering behind the spit before moving out into the res'.
That area is odd as the nest box scheme behind the hide is never as successful as everywhere else, we have not yet worked out why but it must be some sort of enviromental differences in that area.

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Re the Wood Warblers, there are a couple in Hall Dale too, apparantly the ones in Matlock Forest have moved on.

Anna whereabouts at the Hopton Hill area did you get them earlier? (where exactly do you mean by Hopton Hill?)

As regards The Paul Stanley area of Carsington, we get Spotted Fly down there sometimes, and if you are really lucky Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Plus you do get fantastic views of common birds on the feeders. It also can be a good hide to view the gull roost from (in the winter) if the winds in the right direction, they take shelter in the early part of the gathering behind the spit before moving out into the res'.
That area is odd as the nest box scheme behind the hide is never as successful as everywhere else, we have not yet worked out why but it must be some sort of enviromental differences in that area.

Cheers

Hopton Hill
When going to Hopton Hill park at the north end of the Hopton holiday camp and a path follows near a golf course. Around this area is where the Wood Warblers are!

[mooskibaby]

Anna,

TBH I hadn't been down for a couple of weeks before the floods came so don't know if they had hatched. Don't think they will try again now.
Went along the canal to the 'new' workings yesterday morning and there were no gulls or terns up there, though I did see 4 Common Sands.
Went up on the footbridge over the railway and had fun watching a Whitethroat feeding in the middle of the railway lines for 10 minutes. Guess the stones had warmed up in the early sun and attracted the bugs. Also had 4 Oystercatchers on the fields at the back of the reserve from the bridge.

John

John

I saw a whitethroat yesterday at Osmaston around the area of Carsington. I also saw a buzzard there to, and an oystercatcher, a jay, a treecreeper, a nuthatch and some willow tits. I got the walk from my birding magazine. It's not a long walk. If you would like the map i can scan it for you. You would really enjoy it. It goes through a variety of habitats, around lakes through woodland, and through grass land. There are also known to be spotted flycatchers there as well but sadly i didn't see one.
Let me know;)

Anna

[John Eaton]

Thanks Anna,

If you mean the walk around Osmaston Park then it's quite well known and I go up there a few times a year. Used to lead RSPB walks around there. Nice pub in the village.

John

[mooskibaby]

It goes from Osmaston around to Shirley

[Gomphus]

Well heres some gripping news, it appears the Yellow-nosed Albertross visited us!

Heres the story behind the Carsington sighting.

The bird at Carsington was seen at 1510hrs on the 2nd July. The story is that two birdwatchers were in the Millfields carpark and saw a huge bird described as a massive Greater Black back but not, with a massive black bill, gleaming white head and dark/black wings. It was flying with long stiff wings and sitting on the water. Not having a clue what they were looking at they went in search of help when they lost it from view. They were unable to relocate the bird later. Another observer describes having a brief extreme range view of something that resembled a massive fulmar in jizz, through double glazing! These observers know their common stuff I believe, and when Gannet was later suggested immediately said nothing like it! They knew they were watching something really odd.
They left and would have put the bird down as a complete mystery as it wasn't in their books, but they then saw a photo of the Somerset bird and they recognised the species as the bird they had seen the day before! At the time they were totally unaware of the Somerset sighting and were also oblivious of subsiquent events in Lincs!
They put the bird in the logbook the day after, when our recorder saw it in disbelief, however on getting to speak to the observers and suggesting the obvious other stuff we now tend to think they really did see it! Especially when you add in the rest of the story!
This info only reached me in the last couple of days and I was asked not to say anything till we knew more, but its leaked!

The timing would put the bird in the right place as I believe it turned up in Lincs at about 7pm on the 2nd!

This is extremely galling to those of us who spend hours at Carsington... sounds like a mega gets away! One wonders how long the bird was really present, could it have arrived on the previous day and roosted before leaving, we will never know!

I do believe this record at the moment, and given the circumstances I think it should be noted somewhere given the timing! The unfortunate thing is that the notes may not be good enough to convince a committee as they only realised the magnitude of what they had seen afterwards...

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Well heres some gripping news, it appears the Yellow-nosed Albertross visited us!

Heres the story behind the Carsington sighting.

The bird at Carsington was seen at 1510hrs on the 2nd July. The story is that two birdwatchers were in the Millfields carpark and saw a huge bird described as a massive Greater Black back but not, with a massive black bill, gleaming white head and dark/black wings. It was flying with long stiff wings and sitting on the water. Not having a clue what they were looking at they went in search of help when they lost it from view. They were unable to relocate the bird later. Another observer describes having a brief extreme range view of something that resembled a massive fulmar in jizz, through double glazing! These observers know their common stuff I believe, and when Gannet was later suggested immediately said nothing like it! They knew they were watching something really odd.
They left and would have put the bird down as a complete mystery as it wasn't in their books, but they then saw a photo of the Somerset bird and they recognised the species as the bird they had seen the day before! At the time they were totally unaware of the Somerset sighting and were also oblivious of subsiquent events in Lincs!
They put the bird in the logbook the day after, when our recorder saw it in disbelief, however on getting to speak to the observers and suggesting the obvious other stuff we now tend to think they really did see it! Especially when you add in the rest of the story!
This info only reached me in the last couple of days and I was asked not to say anything till we knew more, but its leaked!

The timing would put the bird in the right place as I believe it turned up in Lincs at about 7pm on the 2nd!

This is extremely galling to those of us who spend hours at Carsington... sounds like a mega gets away! One wonders how long the bird was really present, could it have arrived on the previous day and roosted before leaving, we will never know!

I do believe this record at the moment, and given the circumstances I think it should be noted somewhere given the timing! The unfortunate thing is that the notes may not be good enough to convince a committee as they only realised the magnitude of what they had seen afterwards...

Cheers

Thats great Gomphus. Did you see it?
Where does the bird come from?

[mooskibaby]

Today, i was looking in my garden, and i looked over to the new house being built across from me, and i saw about 4 house sparrows hovering around and two of them were climbing up the wall, yet they could fly. I have never seen this sort of behaviour before, is it usual for house sparrows to climb up walls?

[Mike Feely]

Hi Anna

If by climbing, you mean clinging to the walls, occasionally fluttering their wings (as if hovering), then yes this is pretty common behaviour for House Sparrows. They are actually foraging for spiders and small insects. Blue & Great Tits also do this regularly.

Mike

[mooskibaby]

Yea, sorry i did mean clinging to the walls.
Interesting, i have never seen them do it before. I know blue tits are known as the little acrobats of the bird world arn't they. I reguarly see them in my garden hanging up side down feeding on insects on the trees in my garden.

[mooskibaby]

Hi all,

Just looked at the thread, and i haven't posted a good message in a while have i ?:-O

I haven't done much birding recently, i have been doing a lot of other things, i have just finished my GCSEs and i seem to be doing an awful lot. I think if the weather gets better over the rest of this week i may go to Old Moor in Yorkshire with my dad and have a few days birding, also the weather hasn't helped either, yet the rain can bring in some good birds, if there is high winds of course, i think i need to check out the reserves.
Has anyone seen anything interesting on there travels around Derbyshire recently?

o:)

[mooskibaby]

Thanks Anna,

If you mean the walk around Osmaston Park then it's quite well known and I go up there a few times a year. Used to lead RSPB walks around there. Nice pub in the village.

John

Hi John, did you want me to scan the route for you?

[Gomphus]

Thats great Gomphus. Did you see it?
Where does the bird come from?

Anna,

No I didn't see it:C ...only two birders did! Its a first for the UK and comes from the south Atlantic and has a limited breeding range.

The bird seems to have been the same one as was picked up in Somerset and taken into care, then released on the next day, the 30th June. It then seems to have moved overland though Carsington on the 2nd before arriving on a fishing pond in Lincs at Messingham that night when it roosted overnight and spent the next day there before leaving again after posing for some really gripping photos!:-O The two birdwatchers at Carsington are probably the only Birders to have seen it in its entire visit to the UK! The CBC recorder is awaiting notes on it at the moment!

If accepted this would make Derbyshire the only inland county with two albatrosses on its bird list I think!! And one of the furthest counties from the sea too!:eek!:

Not done any birding outside my garden for the last two weeks due to being ill! But the Goldcrest have successfully raised young in the garden!!

Hope the GCSE's went OK Anna, I remember when I went through that "fun" (O levels and CSE's in my day!) and then on to A levels, but I think that would qualify as ancient history now!

Cheers

[DGRW]

Willington GP is now accessible though parts of the trackway are still flooded and water levels are still very high (you'll definately need wellies).

The Black Headed Gulls nests were all wiped out as were the Common Terns, Oystercatcher, Lapwing, LRP and other ground nesting birds. The Warblers have probably faired less badly.

Present last night:

4 Common Sandpiper, 6 Common Tern, 10+ Oystercatcher, 10+ Cormorant, 20+ Reed Warbler, 20+ Swallow, 10+ Swift, 6 House Martin, 20+ Sand Martin, 1 Kestral, 1 Buzzard,

Plus:

Sedge Warbler, Chiff-chaff, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Bullfinch, Reed Bunting, Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Coot, Moorhen, Gadwall, Teal, Heron, Large family groups of Long Tailed Tit and Greenfinch plus all of the other usual suspects.

I didn't see the two Hobbies that have been present there for the last few days.

[John Eaton]

Did Carsington last night from Sheepwash, on the first really nice evening for ages. Pretty quiet as expected, though Little Owls and Spotted Flies were nice.

btw Anna, no need for the scan I have the OS maps for that area, but thanks.

John

[DGRW]

23.07.07 - I've just driven past Willington GP - It's completely floosed again.

[John Eaton]

23.07.07 - I've just driven past Willington GP - It's completely floosed again.

Even the road between Willington and Repton was flooded on Saturday. Be renaming it Willington Water Park at this rate!

[DGRW]

Well I think it'll probably be even further underwater today John, they're getting the sandbags out in Burton upon Trent and the Swans are getting ready to move into B&Q's car park. I sincerely hope that the water doesn't contaminate the beer.

Had a nice night last night - Repton Shrubs - Three adult Tawny Owls and Two Juveniles - Two young Blackcap - three juvenile Green Woodpeckers - lots of other feathered miscreants - three Roe Deer - a Badger and a Woodmouse.

[John Eaton]

I sincerely hope that the water doesn't contaminate the beer.



Certainly doesn't matter if it's just the lager ;)

[mooskibaby]

Not posted on here for a while, i'm surprised seen as i set up this thread.

Been checking out my 2 local reserves (Ogston and Carsington) and apperentely there was a Black Tern and a Green Woodpecker seen at Ogston reservoir. While at Carsington there has been a Red Crested Pochard.
Has anyone been to either of these reserves recently and have you seen any of the 3 birds mentioned above?

[Richard Powell]

Hello Anna

Just noticed your Derbyshire thread, I'm another one from Staffs! I try to combine visiting Willington when driving to or from Burton, my home town, usually when Burton Albion are at home. Willington has to be my favourite Derbyshire site, a lot of good work has been done to improve the habitat. I bet it's had a tough time with flooding recently, I haven't visited for a couple of months.

Does anyone know what is happening with Drakelow Wildfowl Reserve these days? I hear that it is now owned by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, but are there plans to improve access? Unfortunately I don't have a permit anymore, and I don't think new permits are issued.

Cheers

Richard

[John Eaton]

Hi Richard,

With the water levels at Willington it will be at least another week before it's accessible I reckon.
Drakelow will come under DWT around end of summer I hear. On the DOS forum they say that you can get in on old Drakelow permits until the DWT take over. But just read that the gates are now locked and you need the number to the lock to get in - not sure who you contact to get this (DWT?).
Someone mentioned to me a couple of months back that they will change access anyway after demolishing the power station. Ages since I went down.
John

[mooskibaby]

I have looked over the last few messages and Willington has been mentioned a lot.
Where is Willington, and is there a wide range of habitats there for birds?

[Richard Powell]

Hello Anna

Here are some details on Willington that should be of help, from DWT:

http://www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/index.php?section=places%3Areserves&reserveid=321

And the DOS:

http://www.derbyshireos.org.uk/WillingtonGP.html

Thanks for the info about Drakelow John! Its been years since I last visited.

Richard

[DGRW]

Hi Mooski -

Willington Gravel Pit is in the village of Willington, just inside South Derbyshire I think. The entrance to the reserve is on the road from Willington to Repton just outside the village (grid ref: SK295280).

I began visiting the gravel pit around ten years ago when there was no official access beyond the green lane that leads to it. It's always been a potentially good site and there has always been a good range of species to be found there.

It's now being developed by the DWT and the EA into an excellent reserve.

Around a half of the site has been developed into sedge and reed beds with a variety of shallow scrapes and slightly deeper water as well. The rest of the site is still under development but is progreesing slowly but surely. There are now three viewing platforms along the green lane that leads from the main Repton to Willington road and past the anglers lakes. The anglers have the left hand side as you walk along the lane from the main road and the DWT has the right hand side.

There's plenty to be seen there already when it's not flooded and it's potentially a good site, even a breeding site for species like Marsh Harrier and Bittern (hopefully - one day).

To give you a taster of the place, these are the species that I've seen there this year:

Black-headed Gull
Blackbird
Blackcap
Blue Tit
Brambling
Bullfinch
Buzzard
Carrion Crow
Chaffinch
Chiffchaff
Coal Tit
Collared Dove
Common Gull
Common Sandpiper
Common Tern
Coot
Cormorant
Corn Bunting
Cuckoo
Dunnock
Gadwall
Goldeneye
Goldfinch
Goosander
Grasshopper Warbler
Great Crested Grebe
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Great Tit
Greater Canada Goose
Green Sandpiper
Green Woodpecker
Greenfinch
Grey Heron
House Martin
House Sparrow
Jackdaw
Kestrel
Lapwing
Linnet
Little Egret
Little Grebe
Little Ringed Plover
Long-tailed Tit
Magpie
Mallard
Mistle Thrush
Moorhen
Mute Swan
Oystercatcher
Peregrine
Pied Wagtail (yarrellii)
Redshank
Reed Bunting
Reed Warbler
Ringed Plover
Robin
Sand Martin
Sedge Warbler
Shelduck
Shoveler
Skylark
Song Thrush
Starling
Swallow
Swift
Teal
Treecreeper
Tufted Duck
Willow Warbler
Woodpigeon
Wren
Yellow Wagtail
Yellowhammer

There's also been a couple of Merlin knocking around fairly regularly for the last couple of weeks as well.

You can very often see over forty species in a couple of hours.

[mooskibaby]

Hello Anna

Here are some details on Willington that should be of help, from DWT:

http://www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/index.php?section=places%3Areserves&reserveid=321

And the DOS:

http://www.derbyshireos.org.uk/WillingtonGP.html

Thanks for the info about Drakelow John! Its been years since I last visited.

Richard


Thankyou for replying.
Otters in Derbyshire - may have to check that out. Have you ever seen otters there before?

[mooskibaby]

Hi Mooski -

Willington Gravel Pit is in the village of Willington, just inside South Derbyshire I think. The entrance to the reserve is on the road from Willington to Repton just outside the village (grid ref: SK295280).

I began visiting the gravel pit around ten years ago when there was no official access beyond the green lane that leads to it. It's always been a potentially good site and there has always been a good range of species to be found there.

It's now being developed by the DWT and the EA into an excellent reserve.

Around a half of the site has been developed into sedge and reed beds with a variety of shallow scrapes and slightly deeper water as well. The rest of the site is still under development but is progreesing slowly but surely. There are now three viewing platforms along the green lane that leads from the main Repton to Willington road and past the anglers lakes. The anglers have the left hand side as you walk along the lane from the main road and the DWT has the right hand side.

There's plenty to be seen there already when it's not flooded and it's potentially a good site, even a breeding site for species like Marsh Harrier and Bittern (hopefully - one day).

To give you a taster of the place, these are the species that I've seen there this year:

Black-headed Gull
Blackbird
Blackcap
Blue Tit
Brambling
Bullfinch
Buzzard
Carrion Crow
Chaffinch
Chiffchaff
Coal Tit
Collared Dove
Common Gull
Common Sandpiper
Common Tern
Coot
Cormorant
Corn Bunting
Cuckoo
Dunnock
Gadwall
Goldeneye
Goldfinch
Goosander
Grasshopper Warbler
Great Crested Grebe
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Great Tit
Greater Canada Goose
Green Sandpiper
Green Woodpecker
Greenfinch
Grey Heron
House Martin
House Sparrow
Jackdaw
Kestrel
Lapwing
Linnet
Little Egret
Little Grebe
Little Ringed Plover
Long-tailed Tit
Magpie
Mallard
Mistle Thrush
Moorhen
Mute Swan
Oystercatcher
Peregrine
Pied Wagtail (yarrellii)
Redshank
Reed Bunting
Reed Warbler
Ringed Plover
Robin
Sand Martin
Sedge Warbler
Shelduck
Shoveler
Skylark
Song Thrush
Starling
Swallow
Swift
Teal
Treecreeper
Tufted Duck
Willow Warbler
Woodpigeon
Wren
Yellow Wagtail
Yellowhammer

There's also been a couple of Merlin knocking around fairly regularly for the last couple of weeks as well.

You can very often see over forty species in a couple of hours.

Thats a good list there. I think thats a place on my list of places to go soon, when the weather picks up a bit.

[Will S]

Hi DGRW,

I would be very interested to hear more of your Corn Bunting record(s) at Willington. As far as myself, and the county recorders, are aware, Corn Bunting is virtually extinct in Derbyshire, the last confirmed sighting being 2years ago at, I believe, Eggington SF. They used to occur regularly at Etwall, and, going further back in time, along the River Trent at Aston and Weston, as well as a few sites on the other side of the river, but, alas, no more.
Also, Merlin would be a superb record in South Derbyshire in July. Not to sound disrespectful, are you certain that they were not immature Hobby's?

Cheers

Will

[Richard Powell]

Hi Anna

The only Otters I have seen were on the Isle of Mull! I'm sure Otters are increasing around the Trent but you'd be very lucky to see one, as with anywhere else in England. The west coast of Scotland is your best bet for Otters.

Rarities do turn up at Willington from time to time. I first visited in 1989, saw my first Little Egret there. Its the only place where I have seen Kentish Plover (twice, in 1991 and 1997) and Caspian Tern (in 1993, still one of the best birds I have ever seen). You also used to get a winter roost of Long-Eared Owls in the bushes along the lane, but I don't think that has happened for a long time now.

Richard

Thankyou for replying.
Otters in Derbyshire - may have to check that out. Have you ever seen otters there before?

[John Eaton]

Thankyou for replying.
Otters in Derbyshire - may have to check that out. Have you ever seen otters there before?

Anna,

DWT has put in a lot of effort to encourage otters back into the county. See
www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/index.php?section=environment:water:otters
There are a few about but you'll be lucky to see one.

John

[DGRW]

Will -

You're absolutely right about the Hobbies, my mistake, just checked on the DOS website, I've not seen them there myself I was relating (incorrectly) what I'd misread on the DOS.

Re: Corn Buntings in South Derbyshire - Single bird on post near to gate directly at the end of the lane on 03.07.07 (heading towards ongoing excavation work).

I've also recorded one on my BTO BBS route between Repton and Hartshorn.

Yes I know their scarcity, this is a bird that I grew up with though, I know them quite well and whilst I'm the first to admit that I make mistakes from time to time, I stand by this one.

Good news about the breeding South Derbyshire Long Eared Owls eh?

Regards....


Anna -

I've seen Otters up in the north west of Scotland but the real thrill will be to see my first local river otter, they are about.

I was talking to an EA rep at Willington a few months back and she told me that Otters have been recorded at the gravel pit.

Richard -

I was talking to one of the DOS team at Willington a couple of weeks ago and he told me that he's seen Caspian Tern there fairly recently.

There was a group of around six Goldeney there at the beginning of the breeding season. Not particularly exciting but their head bobbing antics were a delight to watch.

[Gomphus]

DGRW Goldeneye are always exciting, one of my favourite duck, things don't have to be rare to give me a thrill!!

Had a stroll around Carsington last Tuesday and we seem to now have 3 pairs of BHGull with young in Shiningford Creek, not bad for their first breeding year. The youngsters from earlier are now flying. Unfortunately the Common Terns have lost their chick in the bad weather.
Redshank, Lapwing and Oystercatcher have all been successful (with the latter having 4 or 5 pairs around the reservoir with young). However with the rising water levels many nests of grebes etc have been flooded.
Unfortunately the high water levels seem to suggest that we will not be getting any wader passage, theres no where for them to go. The high water and winds have also eaten away previously sloping banks into steep cliffs!

Interestingly there was an unconfirmed report of a Little Egret on Tuesday evening...

Not been anywhere else recently apart from leading a walk for CBC to see Nightjar in Notts where we had really good views.

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Hi Anna

The only Otters I have seen were on the Isle of Mull! I'm sure Otters are increasing around the Trent but you'd be very lucky to see one, as with anywhere else in England. The west coast of Scotland is your best bet for Otters.

Rarities do turn up at Willington from time to time. I first visited in 1989, saw my first Little Egret there. Its the only place where I have seen Kentish Plover (twice, in 1991 and 1997) and Caspian Tern (in 1993, still one of the best birds I have ever seen). You also used to get a winter roost of Long-Eared Owls in the bushes along the lane, but I don't think that has happened for a long time now.

Richard


Hi Richard.
I'm going to Mull next week believe it or not :-O . Are there any good places to see the otters?
Also is there any good places to see golden eagles?

[Richard Powell]

Hi Anna

I've send you a private message regarding Mull. I'm sure you'll have a fantastic time!

Richard

[John Eaton]

Anna,

Really good chances of otters, Golden Eagle, White-tailed Sea Eagle, Ptarmigan on peak of Glen More.
Read trip reports on web for best locations e.g./www.surfbirds.com/trip_report.php?id=884
Otters normally best seen on a rising tide.

John

[johnnyoxygen]

hi anna just spotted this thread,a favourite place of mine to visit is lathkill dale,dipper heaven,cheers.

[Will S]

DGRW,

Thats great news, perhaps Corn Buntings are making a small comeback in our area?? I was up near Preston last week, and was amazed by the number up there. We went for an evening stroll to try to find Quail (got 3) and the fields were full of them. One field must have held 40 birds, mostly juveniles.

Yes, great news on the LEOs as well. They bred last year at another south Derbyshire site, I bumped into an adult when I was badger watching! Unfortunately, they have not returned, as far as I know, although I now spend more time in Norfolk than Derbyshire. Perhaps they simply moved the short distance to the new site that you found.

All the best

Will

[DGRW]

Will -

Unfortunately without verification my Willington and Repton Corn Buntings won't make any lists other than the BBS. That being said; I've only seen the two in the area this year despite repeat visits to the same sites so verification is unfortunately unlikely.

Re: the Long-eared Owls - I have been told by both DOS and local BTO recorders that the species has not "been recorded as breeding in that part of South Derbyshire before" so I'm a little curious regarding the other site that you mentioned. My curiosity can quite happily wait though since I've been asked to not disclose the location of the new breeding site either. That "spot" of mine (this year) has fortunately been verified by at least one other DOS member to my knowledge.

Funnily enough, It was whilst out looking for Badgers for my 13yr old son that I found the LEO fledglings.

Regards


Mooski -

I had been going to Scotland for ten years before I managed to spot my first Otter but since then I've managed to find them on near enough every trip to the far North west - everywhere from Skye right up to Lochinvar.

You can find Otters along the whole stretch of that coast. I find that the trick is just to keep your eyes open at all times in those sheltered bays for those fleeting black bobbing heads and tails and be ready to investigate any "possibles".

I took my youngest lad up there for the first time about three years ago and we managed to find him an Otter on the third day just north of Ullapool so it can be done.

Sharp eyes and quick legs, a bit of luck and a bit of locally acquired knowledge.

Good luck. Enjoy the midges.

[itsmoth]

Hi Anna
You've probably already left for Mull but if not, in March/April I had excellent close-up views of Otters just North of Salen playing and feeding around rocks next to a boat wreck.
Would also suggest you visit www.mullbirds.com and www.mullbirdclub.org.uk
Happy viewing,
John

[mooskibaby]

Thankyou everyone for all your help regarding the otters. I have a few areas in mind, thanks to all your suggestions, yet i am thinking that they may not be at the same locations, which could mean a lot of trecking around. Also i need to find out tide times as well, where can i do that?

Thanks everyone! :)

[mooskibaby]

hi anna just spotted this thread,a favourite place of mine to visit is lathkill dale,dipper heaven,cheers.

I have been to Lathkill Dale a lot, yet i have not visited there recently, every time i go i always more often that not see a Dipper. Which always makes my day. Can you get Spotted Flycatchers there, do you know?

[DGRW]

Also i need to find out tide times as well, where can i do that? Six day tide tables here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/coast/tides/scotland_03.shtml

Otherwise pick up a tide table book from just about any local harbour or ask at any harbour-masters office. Local tides are often posted on local Notice Boards as well.

[mooskibaby]

Six day tide tables here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/coast/tides/scotland_03.shtml

Otherwise pick up a tide table book from just about any local harbour or ask at any harbour-masters office. Local tides are often posted on local Notice Boards as well.


Do Otters go to harbours though?

[Mick Sway]

Hi Mooskibaby
Have had sflies all along Lathkill at one time or another, however the only near bye place that I've seen them this year is Moneyash Valley - the limestone cliffs, moneyash valley northern end (also good for whitethroat and other warblers, redstart,skylark,curlew, wheatear and cuckoo - in spring).
Hope that this helps.
Best
Mick
B (:




I have been to Lathkill Dale a lot, yet i have not visited there recently, every time i go i always more often that not see a Dipper. Which always makes my day. Can you get Spotted Flycatchers there, do you know?

[mooskibaby]

Hi Mooskibaby
Have had sflies all along Lathkill at one time or another, however the only near bye place that I've seen them this year is Moneyash Valley - the limestone cliffs, moneyash valley northern end (also good for whitethroat and other warblers, redstart,skylark,curlew, wheatear and cuckoo - in spring).
Hope that this helps.
Best
Mick
B (:

What sort of time is best to see the Cuckoos?
Thanks, for the help Mick.

[DGRW]

Do Otters go to harbours though? Not many, they do visit the harbour at Kyle of Lochalsh though.

The tides for various areas will be the same, high tide at Tobermory will be almost identical to high tide twenty or thirty miles along the coast.

To be honest though; I've not noticed any particular tide preference by Otters i.e. I haven't noticed that that they come ashore more at high tide, just that they're easier to see at high tide as there's less beach, shingle, rock and exposed kelp.

If you are lucky enough to find one be sure to hang around for a while. If you just sit quietly they sometimes come quite close. I had a wild otter come to within thirty feet of me up in Torridon a few years ago. Some of then seem quite bold and when they're in the water and you're on land they seem to know that you're no threat to them.
yet i am thinking that they may not be at the same locations,
Otters in the wild can live up to six or seven years (sometimes more) and they do tend to be quite territorial. The dog Otter that I saw in Torridon a few years ago was well known by the locals in the post office there and it seemed he'd been in that area for a few years.

[Mick Sway]

I would say early May.
Mick

What sort of time is best to see the Cuckoos?
Thanks, for the help Mick.

[mooskibaby]

I would say early May.
Mick


Thats a shame. I'll have to wait another year now to get a good look at one. Oh well, there are many migrants arriving soon anyway. :-O

[Will S]

DGRW,
The LEOs last year, or possibly the year before, were about 4 miles from the site that you located. I only heard one adult call briefly whilst badger watching, but the same person who verified yours went the next night and had several youngsters and both adults. I didnt have chance to return until after they had departed, unfortunately.
Cheers
Will

[JeffCooper]

Hi Anna and Derbyshire birders
I live in the Goyt Valley near Whaley Bridge. Will keep an eye on this thread and add anything of interest. Best birds in my garden are Crossbill and Grasshopper Warbler but in 15 years not had one House Sparrow or Starling actually in the garden which does bemuse me!
JeffCooper

[DGRW]

Will -

We were very lucky, we'd already been watching three still slightly downy Tawny's about half a mile away whilst looking for badgers and so the differences between the young Tawnys and the young LEOs were very obvious; dark vertical central facial patches where a Tawny is fairly evenly coloured on the facial disc, longer and slimmer than Tawnys, possibly more grey than brown and of course that very distinctive call.

There were two of the young LEO, still very downy and calling consistently and very characteristically and we watched them for around fifteen minutes on our outward leg and the same again on the way back. We didn't see or hear the adult birds though.

I went back to check on them about a week ago and found them about half a mile from where we first found them, we didn't see them this time due to access problems, we could hear them very clearly though; two or possibly three young birds but still no sign of the adults. The odd thing is that the Tawnys appeared to have moved into the area that the LEO's had previously occupied and visa-versa. I also had some very good views of adult and fully fledged young Tawnys that night.

Is it likely that any of these birds will stay in the area for the winter or will they disperse? I ask because I won't be satisfied until I've seen the adult birds.

Welcome Jeff - Starlings? you can have a few of mine.

[JeffCooper]

Hi DGRW
Don't really want your starlings thanks anyway. Could swap for adult Tawny Owl regular in the garden or Woodcock roding above most evenings
Jeff

[itsmoth]

Hi Richard,

With the water levels at Willington it will be at least another week before it's accessible I reckon.
Drakelow will come under DWT around end of summer I hear. On the DOS forum they say that you can get in on old Drakelow permits until the DWT take over. But just read that the gates are now locked and you need the number to the lock to get in - not sure who you contact to get this (DWT?).
Someone mentioned to me a couple of months back that they will change access anyway after demolishing the power station. Ages since I went down.
John

Having noted the DOS website headline that Drakelow WR is now a DWT site I was keen to experience this location at long last. Several attempts to obtain a permit over the last 5 or so years have been met with reluctance as the “Power Station didn’t want to issue any more”.

Unfortunately, on contacting DWT on Monday they advised that the site would not be open for at least another 3 or 4 months – but anyone with an old permit would continue to be allowed access.

It occurs to me to be slightly bizarre that a permit, which in this case was the consent of a land owner (E-on) for someone else to go onto their land, didn’t automatically become invalid when the ownership of the land by E-on ended.

And, as one thought provokes another; if DWT is now the owner of the land and is allowing some of its members access but not others, could it not be argued that it is operating a two-tier membership system?

Whatever their, or your thoughts on that are, I expect a great many of us will have to remain content, albeit frustrated, to note the frequent tantalising bird reports sent in to the DOS by the privileged few, for some time to come.

[mooskibaby]

Hi Anna and Derbyshire birders
I live in the Goyt Valley near Whaley Bridge. Will keep an eye on this thread and add anything of interest. Best birds in my garden are Crossbill and Grasshopper Warbler but in 15 years not had one House Sparrow or Starling actually in the garden which does bemuse me!
JeffCooper

Well done Jeff for attracting a Crossbill and Grasshopper Warbler to your garden. I didn't realise you could get them around here, i though they were just Scottish birds.

[John Eaton]

What a difference a week makes! The lane at Willington now passable, with boots.
3 Snipe, Greenshank and family party of Lesser Whitethroat the most noteworthy. Sand Martins gathering on fencing wires.

John

[Simon07]

Hi all,

I'm just started out in bird photography and I'm currently looking for places in north derbyshire. Any recomendations?

Captured these at Carsington at the weekend (Sheepwash Hide I think)

[DGRW]

Willington Gravel Pit is now completely accessible again even without wellington boots. Had a very nice couple of hours there last night between 07:30 and 09:30 pm.

Seemed to catch everyone coming in for the night with Common Sandpipper and Oystercatcher appearing just before 09:00pm and a large flock of Canada Geese arriving in two main groups between 09:00pm and 09:30pm.

Last night was notable for the complete absence of Swifts and very few other hirondelles in the air despite the presence of huge numbers of gnats and other flying insects.

Last Night at Willington:

Black Headed Gull 25
Blackbird 4
Blue Tit 2
Bullfinch 2
Carrion Crow 5
Chaffinch 3
Chiffchaff 1
Collared Dove 2
Common Sandpiper 4
Common Tern 11
Coot 10+
Cormorant 6
Dunnock 2
Feral Pidgeon 6
Goldfinch 4
Great Crested Grebe 10+
Great Spotted Woodpecker 1
Great Tit 5
Canada Goose 50+
Greenfinch 7
Grey Heron 5
House Sparrow 10+
Lapwing 25+
Little Grebe 2
Long Tailed Tit 5
Magpie 5
Mallard 30+
Moorhen 6
Mute Swan 1
Oystercatcher 3
Reed Bunting 2
Reed Warbler 6
Robin 1
Sand Martin 6
Skylark 1
Song Thrush 3
Starling 20+
Swallow 7
Woodpidgeon 6
Wren 1

[John Eaton]

Hey DGRW,

Was that you (with I presume your son) I spoke to on the lane? Timing sounds right. Can add the following to your list:

Green woodpecker 1
Kingfisher 1
House Martins 30ish (early evening)
Sand Martins 20ish (again more early evening)
Whitethroat 3

The majority of hirundines I saw were seen when walking in from the lane Willington side of the Al works, up to just past the Sand Martin nesting site. Quite a few House Martins appeared to be sand bathing.

John

[Gomphus]

Well done Jeff for attracting a Crossbill and Grasshopper Warbler to your garden. I didn't realise you could get them around here, i though they were just Scottish birds.

Anna,

Crossbill breeds thinly in the northern pine forests in Derbys... The Derwent Dams can be a place to see them, but be warned they can be very elusive and numbers and breeding vary from year to year in Derbys. They have turned up at Carsington occasionally too!
Grasshopper Warbler breeds thinly in Derbyshire as well I've seen/heard birds at several sites over the years ranging from Foremark res in the south to the moors in the north. Not sure where to really recommend as I used to rely on birds at Carsi but they no longer breed on site at the moment.

On another tack, interestingly we were asked to help with an young Swift that had fallen down a chimney the other day, everyone (ie the RSPCA etc) apparantly had said just leave it or put it down. The lady had said no, so contacted us to see if we knew anywhere that would take it. There is not a wildlife hospital in Derbys but we found one in Notts at Kirkby in Ashfield, Cedar Wildlife Hospital, run by a lovely lady who said she would take it. She has raised Swifts to flying before so I hope it makes it, it was almost there anyway! They were also looking after loads of Fox Cubs, abandoned ducklings, Tawny Owls etc! On a sadder note, she also as an adorable fox who cannot be released back to the wild because he has brain damage after being used as a football by a gang of youths... how anyone can be so cruel I really don't know!

I really must get some birding in Derbys done, only had one quick trip to Anglesey for Black Stork so far this month nothing in the county.

Cheers

[DGRW]

Hello John, yes that was me, nice to meet you. No doubt we'll bump into each other again down there.

The six Sand Martins that I saw in the air were also down near to the Al works but I didn't notice any on the ground.

I didn't see any House Martins.

I thought I heard a Green Woodpecker very briefly but not with enough certainty to record it.

I didn't see any Blackcap down there last night which is a little unusual and I missed the Whitethroat.

The Common Sandpipers flew in from the right front of the furthest viewing platform at around nine o clock and off to the left rear towards the mudbank at the rear of the area that's still under construction, first a single bird, then two together and a few minutes later another single bird.

The Oystercatchers anounced their arrival in the usual noisy manner and there really was no missing the rabble of Canada Geese as they arrived and sent all of the heron, mallard and Black Headed Gulls into the air.

The Kingfisher would have been a nice "spot" for my lad. He was quite happy watching the Herons though.

Anyway, very nice to have met you John, even if it was only briefly and to be able to put a face to the name.

PS: did I say Hirondelles? I must have been thinking of yachting.

[John Eaton]

The Kingfisher is usually on the far pit viewed from the furthest viewing platform. In fact on Sunday it flew within 10 feet of me on that platform.

Interestingly I saw two of the Sand Martins going to nest holes when I passed at around 7.10, looking as if they were feeding young (2nd brood?).

I think the Common Sands spend most time up on the new workings - well the old bit of them. You can get to them by walking up the canal for about a mile. There's a small bridge over the canal and you can climb over the gate to view a lot of the working. Had 6 Common Sands up there a couple of weeks ago.

Look forward to seeing you again.

John

[John Eaton]

Mid evening walk around Willington yesterday.

At least 8 Snipe + 1 Common Sand.
Usual Green Woodpecker and Great Spot.
Kingfisher on furthest pit.
3 Common Terns.

Loads of hirundines, with 2 pairs of Sand Martins still taking food to nest holes. Swallows were landing in the tops of trees to feed, strange sight.

John

[mooskibaby]

Hi all,

I'm just started out in bird photography and I'm currently looking for places in north derbyshire. Any recomendations?

Captured these at Carsington at the weekend (Sheepwash Hide I think)


There is Ogston Reservoir, but thats not particuarly in the North, but it's definetely worth a visit.
Great picture by the way! :)

[John Eaton]

Hi all,

I'm just started out in bird photography and I'm currently looking for places in north derbyshire. Any recomendations?

Captured these at Carsington at the weekend (Sheepwash Hide I think)

Hi Simon,

Depends a bit on what you want to photograph. For birding I favour Padley Gorge, Derwentdale, and Goyt Valley.

John

[charlierocky]

Hi John, I have been reading your reports of Willington with interest as I live down the road at Burton. Could you tell me exactly where you go and how to get there please, as I would like a look round myself. Thanking you in anticipation.

[mooskibaby]

Hi John, I have been reading your reports of Willington with interest as I live down the road at Burton. Could you tell me exactly where you go and how to get there please, as I would like a look round myself. Thanking you in anticipation.

Hi John, thats something i would also like to know. How do you get there? It sounds great there, i would like to check it out sometime.

[mooskibaby]

I'm going to go to Willington Gravel Pits today, to see what it's like. I'll let you know if i see anything good when i get back.

[John Eaton]

Hi Charlie,

You can see the pits on this google map.
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Willington,+Derby,+United+Kingdom&sll=45.890008,18.632813&sspn=42.558167,82.265625&ie=UTF8&cd=2&ll=52.84866,-1.563663&spn=0.018039,0.040169&t=h&z=15&om=1

On the Willington - Repton road about half mile from Willington centre. On RHS going towards Repton, just after Aluminium works. Can drive up the track for about 400 yards and park.

John

[charlierocky]

Thank you John I know exactly where that is and will be going to have a look around when I can. Thank you for getting back to me.

[mooskibaby]

I went to Willington Gravel Pits yesterday, and didn't arrive on a good day. It was one of those bad bird watching days i think. Saw a few mallards, a heron, a few crows, coots, and sand martins going into the burrows by the pond.

[DGRW]

That's a shame Anna - were you there mid-day? I very rarely get down there before 6pm and I pay the occasional visit early morning (5am-ish).

On the occasions that I have visited mid-day; I've found it a little quieter as well.

I like to get there an hour or so befor dusk if I can and I usually stay for a couple of hours. I think that I get a lot of birds returning to roost at that time.

I know that we haven't had much of a summer so far but I'm looking forward to autumn and winter already when places like Willington GP come alive with the winter migrants.

I notice on the DOS website that there are now 10 Little Egrets roosting at Drakelow, that must be quite a sight for those of us lucky enough to have a permit (and I don't have one). DWT will no doubt get their act together on this issue in the not too distant future.

PS: Always nice to see a few Snipe isn't it John, beautifully coloured birds when you get a good view of them.

PPS: Anna - it's always worth while taking your time as you walk along the green lane lane at Willington, take a really good look in those hedgerows and trees, they're a prime spot for Goldfinch, Bullfinch, Greenfinch, Long Tailed Tit, Marsh Tit and other Tits, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat and lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap, Kestral, Green and Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Treecreeper and others. I very often take half an hour each way just walking along that lane.

A few months back I had really good close-up views of a Greater Spotted Woodpecker and a Treecreeper in the same tree, at the same time, in one of the trees just past the Anglers Gate on the left hand side and, I think on the same day, a good long close-up look at a Sedge Warbler in the same area of hedgerow. The Blackcaps come really close along there as well.

[charlierocky]

I had a quick look around Willington Gravs this morning before I went to work on afternoons. Not alot showing but to be fair I was only there for not much more than an hour. I did see: Grey Heron, G C Grebe, Moorhen, Buzzard, G S woodpecker & Lap wing.
On the way home I went over the Trent towards Repton and about half way between Willington and Repton, a bird of prey flew across the road in front of me.....I'm pretty sure it was a Peregrine.

[Richard Powell]

I wonder if anyone can help. According to birdguides.com, there was a Yellow-legged Gull at Carsington yesterday (16th). Does anyone know if this was an adult bird?

Its just that I have found an adult Yellow-legged Gull near to my home in Staffordshire this evening, at Croxden Quarry. I'm just wondering if it's the same bird.

Cheers

Richard

[itsmoth]

I wonder if anyone can help. According to birdguides.com, there was a Yellow-legged Gull at Carsington yesterday (16th). Does anyone know if this was an adult bird?

Its just that I have found an adult Yellow-legged Gull near to my home in Staffordshire this evening, at Croxden Quarry. I'm just wondering if it's the same bird.

Cheers

Richard

Hi Richard,

Not that it helps much on this occasion but Carsington Bird Club has its own web site that reported three Yellow-legged gulls among others. See http://www.carsingtonbirdclub.co.uk/cbc/asp/ListSightings.asp

John

[Richard Powell]

Thanks John

I tried getting onto Carsington's website the other day, but it wasn't working.

I've now come to the conclusion that they are different birds. I've seen my Yellow-legged Gull again at Croxden Quarry this evening, and on birdguides.com another has been reported from Carsington.

[Richard Powell]

The DOS have now published details regarding access to Drakelow. What hasn't been mentioned is what happens for the likes of me, who used to have a permit but can't find it any more. So I've contacted the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.

http://www.derbyshireos.org.uk/DrakelowNR.html

[Richard Powell]

I've just had a reply from the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust regarding Drakelow permits.

They have a list of permit holders from up to 2001. So if anyone is in the same position as me where a permit has been mislaid, then it should be ok to ask the DWT for another one. Could always check first like I did.

[mooskibaby]

That's a shame Anna - were you there mid-day? I very rarely get down there before 6pm and I pay the occasional visit early morning (5am-ish).

On the occasions that I have visited mid-day; I've found it a little quieter as well.

I like to get there an hour or so befor dusk if I can and I usually stay for a couple of hours. I think that I get a lot of birds returning to roost at that time.

I know that we haven't had much of a summer so far but I'm looking forward to autumn and winter already when places like Willington GP come alive with the winter migrants.

I notice on the DOS website that there are now 10 Little Egrets roosting at Drakelow, that must be quite a sight for those of us lucky enough to have a permit (and I don't have one). DWT will no doubt get their act together on this issue in the not too distant future.

PS: Always nice to see a few Snipe isn't it John, beautifully coloured birds when you get a good view of them.

PPS: Anna - it's always worth while taking your time as you walk along the green lane lane at Willington, take a really good look in those hedgerows and trees, they're a prime spot for Goldfinch, Bullfinch, Greenfinch, Long Tailed Tit, Marsh Tit and other Tits, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat and lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap, Kestral, Green and Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Treecreeper and others. I very often take half an hour each way just walking along that lane.

A few months back I had really good close-up views of a Greater Spotted Woodpecker and a Treecreeper in the same tree, at the same time, in one of the trees just past the Anglers Gate on the left hand side and, I think on the same day, a good long close-up look at a Sedge Warbler in the same area of hedgerow. The Blackcaps come really close along there as well.

Thankyou for that.
I'll try and get down again sometime this week in the evening or early morning. ;)

[John Eaton]

Took a walk down at Willington this morning for the first time in 10 days, having been busy.
Best sighting was a juvie Redstart at the back of the reserve near the footbridge over the railway. Otherwise quiet now the Sand Martins and Common Terns have departed, as have many of the warblers. There were just 3 Snipe on view.
John

[mooskibaby]

Took a walk down at Willington this morning for the first time in 10 days, having been busy.
Best sighting was a juvie Redstart at the back of the reserve near the footbridge over the railway. Otherwise quiet now the Sand Martins and Common Terns have departed, as have many of the warblers. There were just 3 Snipe on view.
John

Well done John for spotting the redstart! ;)

[Richard Powell]

My permit for Drakelow arrived in the post today, from the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. I'll get over there soon, and when I do it'll be the first time for about nine years!

If the work done by the DWT at Willington is anything to go by, then Drakelow is in safe hands.

[mooskibaby]

Has anyone been to Ogston Reservoir recently?
If so whats there at the moment.
Thanks!

[peter hill]

posted on there website for sat common sandpiper 3 hobbys 2 green woodpeckers 6 buzzards if this is any help

[Gomphus]

Apparantly there was a Wood Sandpiper at Carsington (WLCen) yesterday (Sunday) with a Probable (?) Curlew Sand.... any info anyone. Couldn't get up there and wondered if anyone else did?

cheers

[Richard Powell]

I've finally got round to visiting Drakelow with my new permit.

Not a bad selection seen there. Gadwall, Shoveler and Pochard in amongst the duck. Still a few, but quite large, juvenile Cormorants in their nests. Kingfisher, Sparrowhawk, Green Woodpecker, Willow Tit, one flyover Grey Wagtail.

The wildlife trust have managed to clear some of the willow from within Scott's pool and while viewing there, in dropped a Snipe.

It will be interesting to see what work they will be doing in future to improve the habitat. Mainly clearing and controlling willow I would think, just like at Willington. Then hopefully that will also improve the views from some of the hides.

[Gomphus]

Hi all,

Demoiselle Crane at Great Hucklow Yesterday/this am till 9am apparantly but looks like no sign since, probably an escape, but hey a great looking bird. Wish the little devil had stayed, I couldn't go at first light.....

Cheers

[Richard Powell]

1 Little Egret at Drakelow today. Also a good number of Redwings.

[Gomphus]

Hi all,

According to my pager there has been a juv Gannet on Howden Res for the last couple of Days, still present 1.30pm today. Good county bird.

Additional info for any Yellow-legged Gull fans out there is that there has been up to 14 birds in the roost at Carsington.

The Demoiselle Crane seen near Great Hucklow may have been present earlier as a local apparantly enquired about the possibility of a crane a few days earlier....

Seeing as there is a Dusky warbler in Notts at Netherfield how about an eastern warbler in our county, I keep checking my local hedges!!!

cheers

[Gomphus]

Had a "quick" (over an hours drive for me!) trip up to Howden Res late yesterday and the juv Gannet was still there...not sure what the future for this bird is, sadly it didn't look too bright, but was roosting so difficult to judge its condition when it appeared to have no head for most of the time!

Cheers

[Richard Powell]

Hello Gomphus. I've just noticed on birdguides.com that the Gannet has been taken into care at 13:15.

[Gomphus]

Just seen that on my pager too...rather sad. Hope it makes it....

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Hi everyone, not been on for a while, yet i'm back and will be off for a long time to come. o:)

Don't know if anyone has been to Ogston Reservoir but there are some good species of birds down there;

Shoveler, Kingfisher, Sparrowhawk, Pochard, Common Snipe,Common Buzzard, Raven, Goldeneye, Kestrel, Blackcap (male),Common Gull, Redwing, Skylark, Pink-footed Geese, Golden Plover, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Jack Snipe Sandwich Tern, Barnacle Geese (presumed to be part of the resident flock from Carsington), Wigeon, Fieldfare, Siskin, Lesser Redpoll (heard not seen), Dunlin, Rock Pipit, Willow Tit, Mute Swan, Greylag Geese, Brambling

Other News; 1 Water Vole

[mooskibaby]

So has anyone seen anything good lately then?

[Richard Powell]

Hi Anna

I'm in Derby this week, doing a training course at Mackworth College. I do intend to visit Willington and Drakelow afterwards at some point, so I'll keep you posted :t:

[John Eaton]

Quiet at Willington except for the noise from the large digger that DWT are using. Anyone know what they are trying to achieve at the back of the large pit.

John

[Richard Powell]

I just got back from Willington. Two Whooper Swans were there, in for a quick wash and then flew out towards the Trent. Quite a few Fieldfare around, and four Snipe.

I noticed the work being done. Not sure what they're doing, probably clearing more willow.

[John Eaton]

Hi Richard,

The digger was building a mound on the far bank rather than clearing willow, couldn't work out the reason why.

[Richard Powell]

Hi John

Where the mound of earth was, I'm certain there used to be trees there. Could be wrong though, it's odd how the memory plays tricks on you!

Perhaps it's the start of an earth cliff for nesting Sand Martins or Kingfisher? That would be good, but we'll find out eventually!

[Gomphus]

Ok I'm going to be really sad and ask has anyone seen the Reeves Pheasants in Kedleston Park and if so where is the best site...they are cool birds and I fancy seeing them but there is a lot of the park area and I'd like to narrow down the search a little!!

Cheers

[Richard Powell]

Not much out of the ordinary at Drakelow today, but if you're into Cormorants it's the place to be. I counted 173, but there have been counts of over 400 recently.

Won't please the anglers though. I won't go into that because you could start a whole new thread on this subject.

[James_Owen]

Had a decent day on duty with the ABB crew at Carsington Water today. It was Feed The Birds Day too, so extra busy and lots of names and addresses went into the RSPB mailing list.

Anyway, the birds - best of the day was the Red-necked Grebe early on but not seen after 10:40 when a fisherman's boat pushed everything away. Peregrine, a daily visitor at the moment, sat on the pylons before stooping down to miss a Lapwing, miss a Coot but eventually took a probable Teal (right when yours truly was on his lunch break - damn!). 43 species from the Wildlife Cente, several probably missed with the contant rush of visitors.

Also during the day a Black-necked Grebe was reported at the Sheepwash, I picked up a 3rd winter Yellow-legged Gull there in the last light of day (video - dark (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWwlaIb5Exw)) and at least 500 Jackdaw, perhaps many many more, flew in to Hall Wood.

re: the Howden Gannet. Could it have been the same juvenile that turned up later at Carsington, Carr Vale a couple of days after that and was eventually taken in to care in Mansfield on the 15th?

Now, cue the world's worst record shot (the RNG) which strangely features just enough diagnostic information to figure out - size, shape, thick dusky neck, pale cheeks. This was the girlfriend's effort on our dingiest scope since I was busy using the best ones to make sure everybody got to see it.

[Gomphus]

Had a decent day on duty with the ABB crew at Carsington Water today. It was Feed The Birds Day too, so extra busy and lots of names and addresses went into the RSPB mailing list.

Anyway, the birds - best of the day was the Red-necked Grebe early on but not seen after 10:40 when a fisherman's boat pushed everything away. Peregrine, a daily visitor at the moment, sat on the pylons before stooping down to miss a Lapwing, miss a Coot but eventually took a probable Teal (right when yours truly was on his lunch break - damn!). 43 species from the Wildlife Cente, several probably missed with the contant rush of visitors.

Also during the day a Black-necked Grebe was reported at the Sheepwash, I picked up a 3rd winter Yellow-legged Gull there in the last light of day (video - dark (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWwlaIb5Exw)) and at least 500 Jackdaw, perhaps many many more, flew in to Hall Wood.

re: the Howden Gannet. Could it have been the same juvenile that turned up later at Carsington, Carr Vale a couple of days after that and was eventually taken in to care in Mansfield on the 15th?

Now, cue the world's worst record shot (the RNG) which strangely features just enough diagnostic information to figure out - size, shape, thick dusky neck, pale cheeks. This was the girlfriend's effort on our dingiest scope since I was busy using the best ones to make sure everybody got to see it.

Not sure whats happened to the Howden Gannet since it was taken into care up there....I doubt it is the same bird as the ones you mention, as I shouldn't think they would release it back in Derbys? Surely you would take it to the coast if it survived?

Whats happening with these grebes then? Black necked and Slavonian reported today (Sunday) at Carsi? Now I've spoken to someone who saw the Slav but couldn't see any of the others....any more info anyone?

Ogston tonight produced 1 adult Yellow-legged Gull in the roost along with a small roost of LBB's but no sign of last nights probable Baltic Gull. Quite a small roost still.
Apparantly there were a few YLGulls at Carsi tonight too.

Cheers

[James_Owen]

Ah, hadn't read it had been taken into care, still have to wonder about the Carsington/Carr Vale/Mansfield bird, same? Who knows.

The grebes, well... seems there has been some confusion. I'm quite certain I had a Red-necked around 10am, views as clear as a bell, a good size it had a touch of summer plumage left with silvery cheeks, reddishness to the neck and a heavy bill, although not with quite the expected amount of yellow - which could suggest possible confusion with an autumn Slav. At the time we had a seasoned bird club member in with us who was happy to confirm the bird, and we all seemed in agreement. Then an hour or two later a chap comes in asking for ID help on a potential Black-necked Grebe, he seemed unsure and didn't get a very good view, though insisted it had no brown/red tones at all.

So, goodness me, what to make of it? Moulting autumn grebes, bigger hazard than you'd think. Hopefully I'll get there for the ABB event in Tuesday, check for my own peace of mind the Slav isn't the same bird I had!

Yellow-legs seems like a regular fixture for Carsington now, often 6 or 7 birds in the LBB roost. I've been able to pick out the near adults, frankly I'm not yet comfortable distinguishing the 1st-year birds from pale LBBs with a decent amount of confidence yet.

[skyscraper]

[QUOTE=James_Owen;1039386]
The grebes, well... seems there has been some confusion. I'm quite certain I had a Red-necked around 10am, views as clear as a bell, a good size it had a touch of summer plumage left with silvery cheeks, reddishness to the neck and a heavy bill, although not with quite the expected amount of yellow - which could suggest possible confusion with an autumn Slav. At the time we had a seasoned bird club member in with us who was happy to confirm the bird, and we all seemed in agreement. Then an hour or two later a chap comes in asking for ID help on a potential Black-necked Grebe, he seemed unsure and didn't get a very good view, though insisted it had no brown/red tones at all.

QUOTE]

hi I was the chap who reported the black-necked grebe yesterday.I saw the bird from sheepwash hide at around 14:30,I had quite a good view, but brief.My only doubt was weather it could have been slave grebe or not.

[Gomphus]

Yellow-legs seems like a regular fixture for Carsington now, often 6 or 7 birds in the LBB roost. I've been able to pick out the near adults, frankly I'm not yet comfortable distinguishing the 1st-year birds from pale LBBs with a decent amount of confidence yet.

Carsington has long been the best place in Derbyshire to see YLGull in big numbers and you are virtually guaranteed, in the autumn months, to see them in the roost. At Ogston you are closer to the birds but they don't regularly get the higher counts (double figures) whereas Carsi they are present almost every night from mid to late August through to mid/late December. The odd thing is Ogston and Poolsbrook are, IMO the best places to see Caspian Gull in the Midlands (if not the whole of the nothern UK (awaits arguments:-O). BUT we don't get regular birds at Carsi, just the odd record. I wonder why...maybe the distance of the roost at times hinders picking them out, but I don't think so.

Once learned YLGull in first winter is distinctive...its just getting your eye in and practice... young GBB strangly can also be a confusion species!
There are always those birds that defy ID too (both adults and youngsters), even to seasoned gull watchers!

The Slav at carsi was seen very well by very experienced Derbyshire birders Y/day, but it sounds like there was a BNG too...we need to sort out the records here for Roger Carrington the recorder.

Can I remind those who bird at Carsi to PLEASE send their records in to Roger either via the CBC website or in the log books on site, we need them for the report, and to maintain the scientific records for the site.


http://www.carsingtonbirdclub.co.uk/cbc/index.asp

Cheers

[James_Owen]

Yeah, I've had a brief email conversation about the first grebe noted with a bird club member who also saw it, and he says jizz-wise very much Red-necked, although questions still rest over the unusually dull bill. Apparently the Slav is a clean full winter plumage bird so it shouldn't be too readily confused with a Red-neck.
Beyond that, the rangers say there were two strange grebes around, so it need not be the same bird anyway.

Of course, today, apparently no sign of any of them!

hi I was the chap who reported the black-necked grebe yesterday.I saw the bird from sheepwash hide at around 14:30,I had quite a good view, but brief.My only doubt was weather it could have been slave grebe or not.

Ah, so perhaps it was a Slav after all? I know with a briefly snatched view I might struggle.

[Gomphus]

Now was it last winter we had all 3 grebes at once at Carsington or the winter before (time flies!)? I wonder how many of these could be returning birds, especially if the Red-necked was an adult as the red neck, silvery cheeks etc suggest? The res' certainly collects its fair share of "rarer" grebes...now all we need is Pied Billed!!!

Just looked it up in the report it was 05/06 winter I think....

Cheers

[peter hill]

Had a walk out this morning from coombs res <NR chapel en le frith> saw a flock of redpolls near the sailing club , and a smaller flock of siskins at the top end of the res . 150 or so canadas where croping the golf course they had 3 greylags with them ,also saw 30 or so fieldfares .Climbed out of coombs village towards spire hollins half a dozen missle thrushes flew over , then up towards the telivision mast caught up with 3 male bullfinches and a green woodpecker ,STopped on the road down to elnor lane to admire a group of longtailed tits and to my suprise they had a few bramblings amongst them Just studying my 8th jay of the day when i heard a flock of geese frlying over checked them out with the scope they were pink feet ,headed now in to the goyt valley saw a buzzard being mobbed by crows Followed the river down to taxel saw a dipper on route then happened upon 10 or more redwings in the churchyard ,walked back through whaley park and added a yellow wagtail to the daqys total the last bird of the day was a greenfich in my garden feeding on seed i had put out a great walk :t:

[peter hill]

here is 1 of the redpolls

[Gomphus]

Notice Ogston had a 3rd winter Caspian reported in the roost last night....so it begins!

[mooskibaby]

I'm going to get to Ogston in the evening to see the gull roost, good species arriving now.

[mooskibaby]

If any of you have any time, every month there a bird walk at Ogston, the first Saturday of every month, i went to the November one today and it was very good so redpoll, buzzards, nuthatch and many more. Even experienced birders go. You get to meet new people and go for a lovely walk around the area. Are any of you interested for the December walk?

[James_Owen]

Another dim shot of a Carsington Yellow-leg from today. I spent most of it on an RSPB training do (exciting new membership stuff), so didn't see too much. In my experience, of the several birds in the roost one or two seem to hang around the same raft near the Paul Stanley hide, quite apart from the LBB and often sharing it with Cormorant, so nice views.

[John Eaton]

Yesterday afternoon at Willington included

3 Whooper Swans
2 Bewick Swans (first for me at this site)
5 Snipe
2 Kingfisher
c100 Golden Plover over reserve
Green Woodpecker
GS Woodpecker
Sparrowhawk

All the swans flew off south around 4.00pm

John

[Gomphus]

Just to let anyone who is interested know that the adult Ring-billed Gull has returned to the roost at Carsington over the last few nights....over the last few years it has been regular in the roost for the next month or so if you want to look hard enough and the gulls play ball!!! Also up to 15 YLGs are still roosting.

Also a Petrel sp probably Leaches Petrel was seen briefly a couple of days ago....Oh and a herd of Whoopers!

Cheers

[John Eaton]

This afternoon at Willington:

Black-tailed Godwit
Green Sandpiper
3 Snipe
Redshank
Green Woodpecker

some big flocks of Fieldfare.

John

[peter hill]

On a walk this morning i saw whooper swans on coombs res near chapel en le frith they landed and were on the water about 30 mins before flying south

[peter hill]

forgot to put there wre 4 swans 2 adults 2 young

[mcapper]

Ring Billed Gull reported again on Flat Island, Carsington Water, this afternoon.

Also, looks like the Great Grey Shrike is still around on the East side of Howden Res in the Upper Derwent Valley. Should be scopable from the west side at Windy Corner. Note though that the road is closed tomorrow (Sunday) from Fairholmes but there is a shuttle bus every half hour that runs up the Valley that will pick up/drop off on request.

Good flock of siskin (50+) this morning by the River Derwent in Bamford. Feeding in Alder trees. Nice to see them back in the village as they were not present last winter. Shouldn't be long before they are back on the feeders in the garden.

Off to Old Moor tomorrow (I know I know, it isn't Derbyshire!). Hoping to see if the Firecrest will pose for photos.

M

[Marcus Conway - ebirder]

Off to Old Moor tomorrow (I know I know, it isn't Derbyshire!). Hoping to see if the Firecrest will pose for photos.

M

Careful... A tyke passing through here. Good luck sdampping the crest!
I got some good kingfisher pix when I went there last time.

The feeding station at Potteric is good for snapping willow tits too.

[Gomphus]

Ring-billed Gull reported again at Carsington this pm from Paul Stanley Hide at 3.30pm at least.

Cheers

[Gomphus]

Great Northern again at Carsington off the Dam this am. No sign of the LTDuck at Williamthorpe tho'

Cheers

[tvmr_birder]

2 Fem Goldeneye at Barrow GP on Wed (in absolutely horrendous conditions, no sign of the G W Egret though) and nearly 100 Wigeon.

5 Goosander (4 f 1 m) flew in to Moorway Lane Pond on Tuesday, with 2 drakes today - very good numbers for this small, semi urban site site.

Good birding,

Matt.

[mooskibaby]

Goosander currently staying at Ogston, stayed there for the last couple of days, as well as an adult Peregrine

[mooskibaby]

Does anyone know of any starling roosts in the local area. Last year there was one at Kirk Ireton (30,000+) and one at Tansley (3,000-5,000+) just up from the garden centre. Does anyone know if they are there this year, or know of any other roosts in the area?
Thanks.

[Richard Powell]

I had a walk around Drakelow today. A Water Rail showed well at the feeding station in front of the main hide. Plus 3 Snipe and a pretty good selection of wintering birds like Goldeneye, Redwing, Fieldfare, Siskin, Grey Wagtail.

[mcapper]

Stopped in at Poolsbrook yesterday lunch time. Reasonable number of gulls out on the ice including a first winter Glaucous Gull and an adult Med Gull.

Poolsbrook is an excellent spot for watching gulls. There are two active tips close by and the birds stop off at Poolsbrook to bath. It is good because you can watch it in the middle of the day and scrutinise the gulls in good light instead of twilight at a tip. And there is a cafe!

Happy Christmas everyone

Matthew

[James_Owen]

Does anyone know of any starling roosts in the local area. Last year there was one at Kirk Ireton (30,000+) and one at Tansley (3,000-5,000+) just up from the garden centre. Does anyone know if they are there this year, or know of any other roosts in the area?
Thanks.

Not present so far this winter, although as I understand it they only gathered in the Kirk Ireton roost from early January onwards, so there might be a chance of their return yet, if slim. Some years they turn up, some years they don't, is the story I've heard.

The Carsington GND still about though...

[peter hill]

About a 100 brambling this morning at erwood res some on the car park over thedam coming from long hill , but most seen on the path down to fernilee res from erwood dam on the west side ;)

[Steve Seal]

As a Warwickshire Birder i visited Derbyshire today to look for the Long-tailed Duck at Williamthorpe Ponds and wasnt disapointed, it was showing down to feet . The a brief trip to Poolsbrook to look for Iceland and Glaucous, we missed the Glauc by a few minutes but the Iceland was on view. A couple of images posted below. Good birds in a good county.:t:
For more images see my link below.

[mooskibaby]

Are there bramblings at Bumper Castle this year?

Also do you know of any waxwings in the area?

Thanks :)

[Richard Powell]

Hi Anna

No Waxwings at the moment. There's been a flock around Aberdeen and that's about it.

My theory on Waxwings is you get a large invasion of them about once every five years. The last big invasion was three years ago, and that was very large.

As for Bramblings. It is supposed to be a good winter for them, and I do know of a few been seen in Staffordshire. However, not seen by me.

Something I've just noticed on birdguides.com that might interest you. There have been 6+ Hawfinches at Cromford today. Doesn't say exactly where though.

Happy new year!

[JimMorris]

Hi Anna

No Waxwings at the moment. There's been a flock around Aberdeen and that's about it.

My theory on Waxwings is you get a large invasion of them about once every five years. The last big invasion was three years ago, and that was very large.

As for Bramblings. It is supposed to be a good winter for them, and I do know of a few been seen in Staffordshire. However, not seen by me.

Something I've just noticed on birdguides.com that might interest you. There have been 6+ Hawfinches at Cromford today. Doesn't say exactly where though.

Happy new year!

I am off to Cromford now. I think they will be around yhe church. I'll post how I get on tonight.

[k.k.stevenson1]

Hi Anna. I have seen Willow Tits Near Wiln Church Draycott a few times one bird add been rung. Managed to get photo .I live near Nottingham now but get back when i can .Lovely Place Derbyshire.

[Mark Harper]

At least 5 Hawfinches showing well along the canal at Cromford this morning. They were feeding at eye-level at a distance of only 10 metres, but due to the number of people out for a New Year walk along there they kept getting disturbed, making photography difficult, but I did get one reasonable shot.

[Stephen C]

Hi Steve

After spending all my youth at the Williamthorpe ponds I couldn´t wait to get to my parents (from Barcelona) for Christmas to see the Long-tailed Duck. Superb! And a Water Rail at about three feet where I saw my very first!

Still a great site, although not as good as it was thirty years ago, despite being ravaged of its natural wildness and converted into a 'reserve'.

I'm back in Barcelona now but had a great time and a happy new year to all the birders in Derbyshire, and especially Chesterfield!

[Tim Allwood]

Rose End Meadows above Cromford used to be very good for them when I lived nearby

and much less disturbed

Tim

[James_Owen]

Yeah, I scored with Cromford Hawfinches too today, 3-5 from what I could see. Even had one come to ground to feed with the Chaffinches below those 4 tall beech trees near the cricket ground. Plenty of folks out to watch them too.
Somebody told me a pair of Dipper had been around on a gravel island on the Derwent just the other side the railway, but a 30 minute stake out didn't reveal anything. The girlfriend counted 14 Dabchicks on the canal between the wharf and the pumphouse.

Also 2nd-winter Iceland Gull at Ogston on the way home. Rather pleased to have been the first to spot it, because I don't really have mad gullwatching skillz quite yet. The bird came in quite close to shore too. We left early though, while plenty more was still coming in.

2 lifers (previous bogeys) to start the year off with, and hardly 30 miles driving for them. I'm a happy birder.

[Mark Harper]

Somebody told me a pair of Dipper had been around on a gravel island on the Derwent just the other side the railway, but a 30 minute stake out didn't reveal anything.

I saw one Dipper on the river directly behind the church this morning, it was actually singing, which first alerted me to its presence.

[mooskibaby]

At least 5 Hawfinches showing well along the canal at Cromford this morning. They were feeding at eye-level at a distance of only 10 metres, but due to the number of people out for a New Year walk along there they kept getting disturbed, making photography difficult, but I did get one reasonable shot.


Which end of Cromford canal did you see them at (High Peak junction end or by the church)?

[James_Owen]

Which end of Cromford canal did you see them at (High Peak junction end or by the church)?

That's the church end, the tall trees around the car park area and up the canal as far as the small humpbacked bridge. Other birders were trying the yew trees in the churchyard which are meant to be good, but none that I asked saw any Hawfinch there yesterday.

[ChinaBirds]

There was one right at the top of the tall tree next to the hump back bridge just across the river from the Church today. Spent 90 mins yesterday with no luck, today took less than 5 mins, then a Raven flew over!

Also saw the singing Dipper yesterday, both after the railway and near the church

Cheers
Nick

[Richard Powell]

I managed one Hawfinch at Cromford today, in the trees next to the public toilets at Cromford Wharf car park. It took two attempts though. Inbetween visits to Cromford I went over to Williamthorpe to have a look at the Long-Tailed Duck.

[cheshirebirder]

Also had a single hawfinch today. It was in one of the trees along the river immediately behind the church at about 12:30.
Pager said 4 birds present later.

[mcapper]

Poolsbrook still producing the goods. Iceland, 2 Glauc, Med and 4 Yellow legged yesterday plus a possible kumliens gull.

Both Glauc, the Iceland and med roosted at Ogston and there was a Little Gull too.

Glaucous Gull at Carr Vale this morning and the bittern is still present.

M

[mooskibaby]

I may go and have a look today if i have time, and go and see if i can see the hawfinch. Thanks for all the help. :)

[mooskibaby]

A scaup currently at Ogston reservoir.

[mooskibaby]

There's still a scaup at Ogston reservoir, been there for over a week now. Also at Ogston are 2 Pink-footed Geese.

[James_Owen]

Had the 1st-winter Glauc at Ogston today. I must be a real cheat because at a gull roost I spend all my time watching the incoming birds with my bins, instead of scanning the masses on the water.

Anyway, I was speaking to a chap who told me the Kumlien's recently reported there was actually a 2nd-winter Iceland (dodgiest of dark digiscopes below), reappraised, that has been roosting at Ogston for several weeks now. I saw it myself on the 1st, and not being the world expert, didn't really pick up on any Kumlien's features - basically dirty wingtips (right?) - on what actually looked a rather light coloured bird. Nobody else seemed to think it was anything but a bog standard Iceland either.
Anybody know more about this bird?

[Gomphus]

I think that there are at least 2 diferent 2nd winter Icelands roosting, unfortunately due to circumstances I haven't been able to get to the roost for thia winter but have been told that one shows some characters of Kumlien's but is an "odd looking bird".

Will see if I can find out more....

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

A record counting of Common Snipe at Ogston Reservoir on Monday.

[Gomphus]

Noticed last night 5 Glaucs and 2 plus Icelands roosted at Ogston. Several of these birds were seen in the Duckmanton/Markham areas in the day as was the Kumlien's type and and an Iceland (all off Birdnet pager system). This is a record for "white wingers" at a roost at Ogston I believe. These are also being seen at Poolsbrook.

Cheers

[Gomphus]

Apparantly there is a 3rdw Kumlien's at Ogston tonight...(last years bird?), plus 3 Iceland (2ndw one 1/2nd winter and a 1stw) and 2 1stw Glaucous Gulls.....
Begining to get really annoyed I cannot get over there!

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Does anyone know of any starling roosts yet?

[Gomphus]

Does anyone know of any starling roosts yet?

Not yet Sorry. May just be a quiet year....but last year seemd exceptional, the roost at Kirk Ireton was the biggest I'd come across in 25+ years of Derbyshire birding!

As a matter of interest for any Derbyshire Birders there is a smart drake Ferruginous Duck on the old American Adventure Park lake near Shipley Park...Rod Key has put directions on the DOS website on his page.

http://www.derbyshireos.org.uk/RWK.html

Also the Long tailed Duck is still showing well at Williamthorpe!

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Ogston bird walk tomorrow.
Arrive at around 9.15 to set off at 9.30 at the main car park near the sailing club for a few hours walk.

[mcapper]

First ever Brambling in my Garden this morning, obviously due to the snowy conditions. Have had them near the house before but never in the garden so I'm chuffed.

Why couldn't the Big Garden Birdwatch have been this weekend!

[mooskibaby]

First ever Brambling in my Garden this morning, obviously due to the snowy conditions. Have had them near the house before but never in the garden so I'm chuffed.

Why couldn't the Big Garden Birdwatch have been this weekend!

Well done, that's great!:t:

I've had some good birds in my garden as well over the last week, just when the Big Garden Birdwatch finished. Mind you that was bound to happen. o:)

[mooskibaby]

3 Pink footed geese currently at Ogston with a female scaup as well.

[Clive A]

2 Hawfinches still showing at Cromford at lunch time today, very quiet at Carsington- G.N. Diver by fishtail creek and a couple of Goosander at Wildlife Centre.

Clive.

[James_Owen]

Saw the Fudge Duck yesterday. It says something about the bird that it was stunning in dull weather at near 200 yards, lovely colouring. Still plenty of interest in it too, Pit Lane was chock-a-block when I arrived and left.

2 Hawfinches still showing at Cromford at lunch time today, very quiet at Carsington- G.N. Diver by fishtail creek and a couple of Goosander at Wildlife Centre.

Clive.

Recognise the name from Carsington Bird Club. Good to know the GND is still about. I'm in with the ABB event tomorrow and people do ask about it, shame really that we can't see it more often from the WLC.

[Dog]

Can anybody tell me where Bradly Dam is. Is it the Bradly near Ashbourne.

Regards Mike

[Clive A]

Hi Mike, yes the Bradley near Ashbourne. Take the turn into the village off the A517, take the narrow road to the right where the road forks at the end of the village, then left (if I remember correctly). The dam itself is hard to find as it is surrounded by a high wooden fence.Look for a public footpath at the side of a drive by a house.Parking is difficult as the road is very narrow.

Good luck.

[Dog]

Hi Mike, yes the Bradley near Ashbourne. Take the turn into the village off the A517, take the narrow road to the right where the road forks at the end of the village, then left (if I remember correctly). The dam itself is hard to find as it is surrounded by a high wooden fence.Look for a public footpath at the side of a drive by a house.Parking is difficult as the road is very narrow.

Good luck.

Thanks for the info Clive, I will have a look for Mandarin next time I am Surveying up that way. We just don't seem to get many Mandarins in Warwickshire.

Many thanks
Mike.

[Gomphus]

Right theres a Waxwing in Allestree on Ferrers Way opp No92 near the junction with Midway according to Birdnet. Also the drake Fug Duck is still at Losco Dam and there is a female/1stw at Steetley Quarry near Whitwell, but that may be bearing a yellow ring......

12 Hawfinches at Cromford in the usual areas too.

(all taken off the pager)

My highlight is the small flock of Brambling in my garden....

Cheers

[Clive A]

Yes, quite a surprise to see so many Hawfinches. The count of 12 were seen distant, but later 4 showed, in brilliant sunshine, feeding at close range in the Yews in the chuchyard. Many biders were able to get stunning views of these elusive birds.More than made up for a very quiet Carsington this morning.

Clive.

[areed]

Right theres a Waxwing in Allestree on Ferrers Way opp No92 near the junction with Midway according to Birdnet. Also the drake Fug Duck is still at Losco Dam and there is a female/1stw at Steetley Quarry near Whitwell, but that may be bearing a yellow ring......

12 Hawfinches at Cromford in the usual areas too.

(all taken off the pager)

My highlight is the small flock of Brambling in my garden....

Cheers

Hi I was present yesterday at Steetly Quarry for the fem/1st win Fudge Duck,During the hour or so I was there the duck never revealed its legs.(I had been informed it had got a ring on)The bird seemed very wary of anything other than the Tufted Duck it was present with+keeps its distance from everything else,This of course dosen't meen it has or has not got a ring.Is there any pictures with it showing the ring yet?or has any one else witnessed a ring at all.Would be interesting to know about.

[Gomphus]

Clive, Carsington has been very quiet lately hasn't it? Sounds like you had good views of the Hawfinch.

Went over to Loscoe Dam today and got great views of the Fug Duck, along with a single female Goosander and a "Sinensis" Cormorant....

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Are the hawfinch still present at Cromford?

[Mark Harper]

The Great Northern Diver was still at Carsington today, directly opposite the tower between Sheepwash and the wildlife centre. Looks to be in fairly heavy moult so should be around for a few weeks yet.

[Clive A]

Yes, Carsington has been a little dissapointing of late. Just got back from up there, again little of note, other than the Diver,a Goosander, Raven and a nice little group of Goldeneye displaying infront of Sheepwash hide.Lots of Gulls though I was unable to find anything unusual amongst them. Had the Fug Duck myself on Tuesday, what a cracking looking bird.
There were only 2 Hawfinches showing on Saturday,not sure about today. They should be viewable for another month or so, although a little luck and patience is often required. I have regularly seen them lately in the trees near the cattle grid, where they will perch for a while before dropping into the Yew trees in the churchyard.

Clive.

[Ross Ahmed]

Hi I was present yesterday at Steetly Quarry for the fem/1st win Fudge Duck,During the hour or so I was there the duck never revealed its legs.(I had been informed it had got a ring on)The bird seemed very wary of anything other than the Tufted Duck it was present with+keeps its distance from everything else,This of course dosen't meen it has or has not got a ring.Is there any pictures with it showing the ring yet?or has any one else witnessed a ring at all.Would be interesting to know about.

Saw this today. Definitely got a yellow ring on it's right leg (watched it scratching it's head).

[Gomphus]

Saw this today. Definitely got a yellow ring on it's right leg (watched it scratching it's head).

Hummm...wonder where thats come from then. As far as I could see the Loscoe Dam drake was unringed, we watched it preen and fly.

Cheers

[areed]

Saw this today. Definitely got a yellow ring on it's right leg (watched it scratching it's head).

Many thanks Ross,Did you see the other leg at all?I was just wondering if it could be some chance of a miracle it could be a "real"migrant instead of a fence hopper.Still nice to see either way,but would be a bonus,especially as its fairly local.

[gareth_blockley]

Came up your way for a few birds today. Didnt get the Loscoe Fudge duck (not seen all day?), 4 Hawfinches at Cromford but they took ages to show then only did for a few seconds! and the Waxwing at Allestree.

Cheers

Gareth

[mooskibaby]

Came up your way for a few birds today. Didnt get the Loscoe Fudge duck (not seen all day?), 4 Hawfinches at Cromford but they took ages to show then only did for a few seconds! and the Waxwing at Allestree.

Cheers

Gareth

Great images. Well done :t:

[Ross Ahmed]

Many thanks Ross,Did you see the other leg at all?I was just wondering if it could be some chance of a miracle it could be a "real"migrant instead of a fence hopper.Still nice to see either way,but would be a bonus,especially as its fairly local.

No didn't see left leg unfortunately.

Been searching for a Ferruginous Duck ringing scheme on net! Can't find anything as yet. I remember a Scaup on a local lake which was ringed, and that turned out to be a wild bird.

[James_Owen]

No didn't see left leg unfortunately.

Been searching for a Ferruginous Duck ringing scheme on net! Can't find anything as yet. I remember a Scaup on a local lake which was ringed, and that turned out to be a wild bird.

Here's (http://www.nimfea.hu/english/ferruginous.htm) one in Hungary. That said, I read in some of the conservation literature that there's been very little ringing done with this species.
Personally, I can't avoid assuming any such ringed duck in Britain is liable to be of wildfowl stock. Easy for me to say that though, I went for the unringed Heanor bird instead!

[areed]

Here's (http://www.nimfea.hu/english/ferruginous.htm) one in Hungary. That said, I read in some of the conservation literature that there's been very little ringing done with this species.
Personally, I can't avoid assuming any such ringed duck in Britain is liable to be of wildfowl stock. Easy for me to say that though, I went for the unringed Heanor bird instead!

thanks for that,this bird has turned up at a much smaller pond so it might be possible to look closer.I had same luck when i looked to see if any were ringed,but as I stated in a earlier post its not very often we get something like this,so its interesting to see local.I'm right in what I've read that someone is now saying the Heanor bird has been around for a couple of years.I hope thats proved to be incorrect as that bird is truely fantastic.

[Gomphus]

I have a feeling Loscoe Dam is birded fairly regularly and the Fug Duck hasn't been reported before, so I don't know what to make of the claim its been seen over the last few years by the fishermen?

Cheers

[James_Owen]

Well we don't know what the fisherman saw, but it seems to me doubtful such a marvellous duck would go unnoticed on Loscoe Dam for years, only to be discovered on Shipley Lake (where it would be far more difficult to pick up), and then only hang around a few weeks more after being properly birded.
Could happen though, I suppose.

[mooskibaby]

A female scaup still present at Ogston with shovelers and pink footed geese

[Gomphus]

I hear that the gull roost at Ogston is very poor at the moment due to a falconer being employed ar Erin Landfill to scare thew birds away....its working.

Waxwing still in Allestree this Am on Ferrers Way.

Cheers

[Gomphus]

Saw the Waxwing early afternoon today, just up from the chapel on Ferrers way. On the opposite side of the road and just up from the chapel is a small tree with pinkish white berries and it was feeding there and flying up into the taller trees.

cheers

[Gomphus]

Thayer's Gull?

1st winter bird "showing characteristics of" Thayers at Erin Tip this am, reported on pager. Pk Poolsbrook CP and walk up hill to view tip. Usually birds come down to the lake at the Country park to bath etc and give awesome views hope this does too....mind you am carless today and being only 30mins away a bit frustrated!!!

Poss Oxon bird tho'??

Cheers

[areed]

Regarding the recent fem/imm Ferruginuous Duck at Sttetley Quarry which sported a yellow ring on one of it’s legs in the just published journal “Bird Ringing for Science and Conservation” Roy Frost has pointed out that there is a photo in this edition which shows a drake Ferruginuous Duck being ringed with a yellow colour ring on it’s right leg and a less obvious metal ring below it. Although it does not state where the photo was taken the photo is attributed to an Eastern European sounding name. Thus it is possible that the Steetley bird which is now in N. Notts could well be a wild bird.

I have just seen this on the Derbyshire web site,does any one have a close up of this right leg at all,as it may be from the same area that is quoted above.
It might be that we all have missed a metal ring on the same leg,Lets hope so would be truely fantastic record,
Heres hoping

[Gomphus]

Poolsbrook was a bit frustrating today, took me 3+ hours to get from Nottingham too! Could have got to Norfolk as quick. Saw a cracking adult Iceland on arriving and the 2nd winter "Kumlien's" Iceland was there briefly too, odd looking thing! The "Thayer's type" was seen on Markham Yard at about 9.30am but not seen since... very few large gulls came in to the lake compared to other days by the sounds of it.

Cheers

[Clive A]

A male Lesser pecker on Cromford Moor this morning, near to the television mast.

Cheers,
Clive.

[mooskibaby]

Do you have any pictures of the waxwing Gomphus?

[James_Owen]

Busy day RSPBing at Carsington. Of note, the GND still around - pushed to the middle waters by all the watersports so viewed frequently from the wildlife centre. The waders are ever so slightly hotting up, from the centre, 3 Redshank, 2 Oystercatcher, and 2 Curlew circled but where chased away by the Lapwing, and a pair of Snipe were settled into the bit of reed bed next to the WLC.
Both Little and Tawny Owls in their regular spots.

Otherwise quiet, general duck numbers down, feels like we're waiting for Spring to hit us.

[Gomphus]

Do you have any pictures of the waxwing Gomphus?

Sadly no...I called in on the way to Derby between recycling and shopping!!! Didn't carry anything but a pair of binoculars....
rather regret it now as Glyn Sellars got some great shots which are on Surfbirds:-C

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Hi everyone, just letting you know i have a blog, feel free to have a look, i'll be posting some information on there soon about birding in Derbyshire. Let me know what you think, and feel free to leave a comment. :)

[Steve Seal]

Hi Anna
A few images of the Allestree Waxwing on link below.;)
Steve...............
http://steveseal.fotopic.net/c1459750.html

[Daniel Martin]

Hawfinch (6) showing well in Yews at Cromford Church yard today, and two pairs of Raven on territory in two different quarries local to them. On the way home from work the Scaup was still showing well with Tufties at Ogston.
Raven might be easiest to see at Derby Cathedral currently as they battle it out with the local Peregrines. Still plenty of Brambling near Darwin country park.

[Richard Powell]

Hi Anna

I think your blog is fantastic. I have also decided to write a blog recently. I'm trying to describe and illustrate my birding adventures. Somehow the eurovision song contest has got in there as well. But that's only because a Turkey is representing Ireland this year!

I should be visiting either Willington or Drakelow this saturday, so I'll post my sightings on here.

[Gomphus]

Like the blog name Richard! Fan of league of Gentlemen by any chance?

Anna, nice job on your blog....mine is below my signature.

Interesting last night when we got shook up a bit, the birds seemed disturbed around us, the Starlings roosting in the roof got really noisy and whilst making a brew to steady the nerves I noticed a Magpie going mad calling as was the local Blackbird...however the local Robin was unfazed he carried on singing under the street lamp the whole time!

Early this morning still 4 Bramblings on the feeder, but the local pair of Greenfinches are starting to show signs of nesting, and there is Frogspawn in the pond...spring is creeping north it seems...

Cheers

[Gomphus]

I hear the Waxwing has relocated toWoodlands Road Allestree opp the Woodlands Evangelical Church...wonder if its "got religion" since its favoured the other church before on Ferrers Way?:-O:-O

Cheers

[Richard Powell]

Hello Gomphus

Yes I am a bit of a League of Gentlemen fan. I promise I won't start calling you Dave or say "your my wife now!". Royston Vasey is in Derbyshire of course, at Hadfield.

Just to let you know I've put a link to yours and Anna's blogs onto my blog.

Richard

[mooskibaby]

Hi Anna
A few images of the Allestree Waxwing on link below.;)
Steve...............
http://steveseal.fotopic.net/c1459750.html

I take it these are your pictures Steve, they're fantastic. ;)

[Richard Powell]

As I didn't get over to Burton yesterday, I've been to Drakelow and Willington today. Just as well really, Burton Albion are struggling a bit just lately.

42 different species at Drakelow, including 17 Goldeneye, 1 Oystercatcher, 25 Fieldfare, 8 Redwing, 2 Siskin, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker. The water level has flooded the reeds in front of the main hide, so no Water Rail unfortunately. But a couple of Greenfinches and a few Reed Buntings at feeders in front of the main hide. There was also a Hare.

Willington produced 20 Goosander, 15 Goldeneye, 3 Shelduck and a Redshank.

[James_Owen]

Nice surprise on my way home from Hardwick Hall today, a flock of 350+ Golden Plover tumbling over the fields just north of Stanley, right on the county border. I bet the folks on the M1 had nifty views of it too.

[lesf]

If you are ever near Bolsover please come and visit my local patch at Carvale Nature Reserve the jewel in the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust's crown. A new record last year of 148 species

[lesf]

Yes, Carsington has been a little dissapointing of late. Just got back from up there, again little of note, other than the Diver,a Goosander, Raven and a nice little group of Goldeneye displaying infront of Sheepwash hide.Lots of Gulls though I was unable to find anything unusual amongst them. Had the Fug Duck myself on Tuesday, what a cracking looking bird.
There were only 2 Hawfinches showing on Saturday,not sure about today. They should be viewable for another month or so, although a little luck and patience is often required. I have regularly seen them lately in the trees near the cattle grid, where they will perch for a while before dropping into the Yew trees in the churchyard.

Clive.

Carsington you will find dissapoints more often than not, even though I visit this site often it mostly flatters to decieve and there are far far better sites in Derbyshire

[James_Owen]

Carsington you will find dissapoints more often than not, even though I visit this site often it mostly flatters to decieve and there are far far better sites in Derbyshire

Oh I don't know about that, we've just had a poor winter for the rarer grebes is all, compared to the last few.

[mooskibaby]

In a few months time there's an open day at Ogston Bird Club, would anyone be interested in joining if your not already a member?

[Gomphus]

Carsington you will find dissapoints more often than not, even though I visit this site often it mostly flatters to decieve and there are far far better sites in Derbyshire


OOOH controversial:eek!:.....must say Carsington can be hard work as its size makes it hard to see all of it, but I have always found that this pays off, I am actually very unlikely to come away disappointed. Its not always about how many rares you see! I find myself a little disappointed about Carr Vale at times too! I rarely think of visiting, its just another marsh, I've got one down the road! :-O:-O

Joking asside, Carsington has been a little quiet for rare stuff this year, mind you a resident Great Northern throughout the winter is not to be sneezed at, we are just a little complacent about it now! But the common birds have all shown well and things like Peregrine etc have been regular. Depends I suppose what you rate as a good site, there is always something to look at at Carsi whatever the time of year.

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

I've just been to Ogston for a couple of hours this afternoon, and saw 4 common snipe, and I sort of managed to film them feed as well, which was an achievement.

[lesf]

OOOH controversial:eek!:.....must say Carsington can be hard work as its size makes it hard to see all of it, but I have always found that this pays off, I am actually very unlikely to come away disappointed. Its not always about how many rares you see! I find myself a little disappointed about Carr Vale at times too! I rarely think of visiting, its just another marsh, I've got one down the road! :-O:-O

Joking asside, Carsington has been a little quiet for rare stuff this year, mind you a resident Great Northern throughout the winter is not to be sneezed at, we are just a little complacent about it now! But the common birds have all shown well and things like Peregrine etc have been regular. Depends I suppose what you rate as a good site, there is always something to look at at Carsi whatever the time of year.

Cheers
We are you will agree entitled to our own opinions. My personal feelings about Carsington is that the Hides are to few for such a large site, the hides that are there with the exception of the Paul Stanley hide are badly sited. There are not enough varieties of habitat within the lake area ie Reed beds, scrapes etc and I get fed up with screaming kids entering the hides. As for my local patch the Marsh LOL at Carvale I too can be disappointed sometimes but I always know that it will produce all year round and has this year alone had 2 bitterns at the same time, the site regularly has a higher yearly count than Carsington. Basically Carsington is too big, to commercial ie Bikers, Horses, Windsurfers etc. Too little emphasis on the birds and birders. This site could be so much better, pity it isn't

[lesf]

In a few months time there's an open day at Ogston Bird Club, would anyone be interested in joining if your not already a member?

Sorry matey but I don't know you at all but I do know some of the birders in the Ogston Bird Club and it's fair to say I will not be rejoining your illustrious club, far to much snobbery, oneupmanship and oversize egos for a down to Earth bloke like myself

[Gomphus]

We are you will agree entitled to our own opinions. My personal feelings about Carsington is that the Hides are to few for such a large site, the hides that are there with the exception of the Paul Stanley hide are badly sited. There are not enough varieties of habitat within the lake area ie Reed beds, scrapes etc and I get fed up with screaming kids entering the hides. As for my local patch the Marsh LOL at Carvale I too can be disappointed sometimes but I always know that it will produce all year round and has this year alone had 2 bitterns at the same time, the site regularly has a higher yearly count than Carsington. Basically Carsington is too big, to commercial ie Bikers, Horses, Windsurfers etc. Too little emphasis on the birds and birders. This site could be so much better, pity it isn't

Humm ...STW have done what could be done within the site at Carsington and still do IMO, you have to realise that this site IS commercial, it is not a nature reserve but a working reservoir, work is constantly on going to improve what is there ie new reed beds etc, it is not designed as a nature reserve so everything fits in around the main purpose. Also you must remember a lot of users at Carsington pay more money etc than birdwatchers, all birders do generally pay is parking...and they don't always do that:C There is no "god given right" that birds and birders come first, they don't! As for kids, tourists etc...if we can get them interested all to the good surely, if you don't like it fair enough, but try evenings...there is no-one there most of the time, just the regular birders! I can go and see no-one but a single dog walker or jogger for hours on a spring/summer evening.
The BAP for the site seems excellent and the stirling work done on this side of things is to praised IMO. It must be difficult juggling the different needs of such a wide range of activities and requirements.
I suppose, thankfully, everyone has their own way of birding and the type of birds they enjoy seeing and they will go to sites that satisfy that. It would be boring if we all enjoyed the samethings/places!

I wasn't dissing Carr Vale by the way, MarkB etc do a stirling job going around and finding the birds etc and I admire them for it! B (: I reckon if the same skill and time was put in at other sites they too could produce much more stuff. When I do visit I have seen good birds, the Vale has a great track record for rare's but is that down to just the site or does the amount of coverage to site size etc have an impact? I reckon/know we miss loads at Carsington due to the amount of habitat! I guess its just I personally don't feel inclined to drive for 45+mins to walk round Carr Vale when I have two (IMO) good reservoirs, a nice marsh, a canal etc all less than 20mins away plus of course the moors to keep me occupied! If I lived next door I'd be there all the time! But I don't think there is vast differences between good sites in Derbyshire the county is lucky in having loads of great habitat and sites depending on your personal preferences!

Will say too the insect life etc at Carr Vale is excellent (even allowing for the release of the Large Coppers!). The Dragonflies and Damselflies are superb and I would heartily recommend a summer visit! I wonder does anyone moth trap on site???

As for Ogston Bird Club I've been a member for many, many years and have found the members friendly and helpful, sorry you feel the way you do about the place and the club...its nothing like my experiences clearly!
I would personally heartily recommed joining OBC to get access to the members hides etc I've spent many a happy afternoon watching the world go by from them! Also OBC have been working well with STW to improve habitats at the site and on their own at their own Jim Mart reserve.
Thanks Anna for mentioning the Ogi open day!

Cheers

[mooskibaby]

Humm ...STW have done what could be done within the site at Carsington and still do IMO, you have to realise that this site IS commercial, it is not a nature reserve but a working reservoir, work is constantly on going to improve what is there ie new reed beds etc, it is not designed as a nature reserve so everything fits in around the main purpose. Also you must remember a lot of users at Carsington pay more money etc than birdwatchers, all birders do generally pay is parking...and they don't always do that:C There is no "god given right" that birds and birders come first, they don't! As for kids, tourists etc...if we can get them interested all to the good surely, if you don't like it fair enough, but try evenings...there is no-one there most of the time, just the regular birders! I can go and see no-one but a single dog walker or jogger for hours on a spring/summer evening.
The BAP for the site seems excellent and the stirling work done on this side of things is to praised IMO. It must be difficult juggling the different needs of such a wide range of activities and requirements.
I suppose, thankfully, everyone has their own way of birding and the type of birds they enjoy seeing and they will go to sites that satisfy that. It would be boring if we all enjoyed the samethings/places!

I wasn't dissing Carr Vale by the way, MarkB etc do a stirling job going around and finding the birds etc and I admire them for it! B (: I reckon if the same skill and time was put in at other sites they too could produce much more stuff. When I do visit I have seen good birds, the Vale has a great track record for rare's but is that down to just the site or does the amount of coverage to site size etc have an impact? I reckon/know we miss loads at Carsington due to the amount of habitat! I guess its just I personally don't feel inclined to drive for 45+mins to walk round Carr Vale when I have two (IMO) good reservoirs, a nice marsh, a canal etc all less than 20mins away plus of course the moors to keep me occupied! If I lived next door I'd be there all the time! But I don't think there is vast differences between good sites in Derbyshire the county is lucky in having loads of great habitat and sites depending on your personal preferences!

Will say too the insect life etc at Carr Vale is excellent (even allowing for the release of the Large Coppers!). The Dragonflies and Damselflies are superb and I would heartily recommend a summer visit! I wonder does anyone moth trap on site???

As for Ogston Bird Club I've been a member for many, many years and have found the members friendly and helpful, sorry you feel the way you do about the place and the club...its nothing like my experiences clearly!
I would personally heartily recommed joining OBC to get access to the members hides etc I've spent many a happy afternoon watching the world go by from them! Also OBC have been working well with STW to improve habitats at the site and on their own at their own Jim Mart reserve.
Thanks Anna for mentioning the Ogi open day!

Cheers


Hi Gomphus,
If you don't mind me asking what's your off line name, because I may know you, because I'm a member of Ogston Bird Club as well.
Anna

[mooskibaby]

Does anyone know of any starling roosts in the area?
AND
is that waxwing still at Derby?

Thanks