Dove Stone RSPB (including Binn Green and environs)
David Walsh said
Mon Mar 3 12:36 PM, 2014
Charles Farrell wrote:
Sat 1st Mar 13:30 - 14:15
Other dog owners tried to ignore what was going on but did at least keep their dogs on a lead. Quite shocking.
I don't want to start up a "dog owners against the world" thread, and am mindful that this is the bird sightings section of the site, but as a dog owner that does exercise his dogs off the lead and birdwatches at the same time (though not on an RSPB reserve, I may add), there is little worse than seeing an out of control dog spoiling other people's enjoyment. Regulations state that dogs off the lead should be "under close control", which effectively means trained well enough to return to the owner on command. Dogs walked through areas with livestock, particularly sheep, should be on a short lead. The same goes for dog mess - there is nothing more irritating to a responsible dog owner that playing hop-scotch along muck-ridden towpaths or footpaths. It's no fun washing other dogs' faeces from my dogs' fur!
Aside from the police advice, I would inform Oldham MBC, whose responsibilty the area is, because as has been pointed out, the area is well used for recreation by adults, children, and animals alike. They will also know who owns the land and who the tenant farmer is.
Finally (you all sigh) I do not wish to generalise but, in my experience, people whose dogs are trained to attack other animals are not usually easily swayed by reasoned argument, and those dog owners who were described as trying to ignore the situation were probably concerned that their pets would meet a fate similar to that experienced by the sheep.
All the more reason that Oldham MBC should know what is going on. After all, they are happy to collect car parking fees from the area, so should be able to send officers to police it. They would say that if they do not know there is a problem then they cannot take steps to solve it.
Rob Creek said
Mon Mar 3 12:49 AM, 2014
You've done the right thing reporting it Charles, and as pointed out by John and Jamie, dogs should not be off the lead at a place like this, it's a bloody RSPB reserve and chances are children will be out and about with parents. Firstly they shouldn't be put at risk (or adults for that matter) from a 'likely to be' dangerous mammal and secondly, shouldn't be exposed to possibly witnessing such an attack on a relatively defenceless domesticated mammal !!!
Charles Farrell said
Sun Mar 2 11:34 PM, 2014
I called the Police today to report the crime, and the central call-centre said that they would pass on the message to the appropriate dept (West Saddleworth?). However they did not have any phone details for the farms in the area and said that the Farmer concerned would have to report the loss of the sheep before they could do anything.
I managed to get some photos of the (Staffordshire-type) dog concerned, but none of the owner, who was 100-200yd away up the hillside towards Chew Res.
I'm sure that it wasn't the only dog off its lead at the time. :(
JamieDunning said
Sun Mar 2 11:01 PM, 2014
Dogs are not supposed to be off leads around the res here, there's signage expressing as much.
To add to Charles' from the 1st, a Dipper pair on Chew brook, though at opposite ends of the valley & a male tawny owl calling in broad day light from 3:20 all the way through to around 4:45pm from Fletchers birch wood. Oyster catcher high, SE over res (as well as usual pair) around 4:00.
Cheers.
John Doherty said
Sat Mar 1 9:14 PM, 2014
I've personally witnessed dogs here chase sheep - it's quite scary to watch; I reckon there was only a fatality avoided there because the dog gave up running uphill in the heat (in summer) - ? I thought dogs weren't even allowed off the lead at a place like this. I'm quite concerned, especially given this is where a lot of children go to.
Rob Creek said
Sat Mar 1 8:35 PM, 2014
I hope you phoned the police Charles, it's a serious matter where livestock is concerned, and by the sounds of it...it won't be long before that dog attacks a person
Charles Farrell said
Sat Mar 1 5:38 PM, 2014
Sat 1st Mar 13:30 - 14:15
Good couple of hours walking around Yeoman Hay and Dovestones. Not a huge number of birds but pleasant all the same.
- 20+ Siskin (mainly around the Binn Green feeders) - 10+ Coal Tit (all around) - lots of Blue and Great Tit (around Binn Green) - 16+ Chaffinch (Binn Green and Other Car Park feeder) - 80+ Black-headed Gull (on rafts on Dovestone Res) - 2 Oystercatcher (also on rafts) - c30 Mallard
The RSPB staff had been watching the Peregrines but they had drifted off over the tops by the time we reached the watchpoint.
Also watched (with others) in horror as an out of control dog took down and killed an adult sheep, then ran around covered in blood. The owner (more interested in talking on their phone than watching what the dog was doing) seemed incapable of controlling the dog and carried on walking up the valley and avoiding us. Other dog owners tried to ignore what was going on but did at least keep their dogs on a lead. Quite shocking.
C Brown said
Sun Feb 2 8:17 PM, 2014
Just out of interest and whilst not a flock, I had a lone golden plover in early January 2013 on 'the moor', between Black Hill and the Isle o' Skye road. It was a wild old day too.
Regards, Chris
Steve Suttill said
Sat Feb 1 3:10 PM, 2014
A useful lesson, as you say
But you're right - Golden Plover aren't normally up on the high moorland at this time of year. January would normally see them with Lapwings in a lowland pasture - or on the roof of warm warehouse! Whether these birds are our local moorland breeders or migrants from further north is a matter of some debate. It might not seem like it to us (particularly today) but this winter has been pretty mild - and Golden Plover are tough little birds!
Simon Gough said
Sat Feb 1 2:56 PM, 2014
I read that and reflected, then saw some Snipe today at Adswood Tip and they were totally different to the birds up on Chew Moor. Instructive for me, I took the plumage over the behaviour by saying Snipe, also I was surprised as I have read that the Plovers leave the moor in winter. But the behaviour wasn't really Snipe in hindsight, as the flock flew in a tight group low to the ground. Good lesson for me.
Steve Suttill said
Sat Feb 1 2:46 PM, 2014
Simon Gough wrote:
Simon Gough wrote:
Path up to the top moor/bog then over to Chew Reservoir Pheasant f 2 Raven 2 Red Grouse 4 Snipe 20-25 flushed up and flew off as a flock Path down Raven on its own then the pair again Stonechat m and f
In hindsight the flock mentioned above weren't Snipe, more likely Golden Plover.
Hi Simon
that sounds much more likely. A friend who was volunteering up by Chew Resr the following day reported 35 - 40 Golden Plover in the area
Simon Gough said
Sat Feb 1 2:36 PM, 2014
Simon Gough wrote:
I saw the big Brambling flock twice yesterday: about 830, as it was snowing (!) in the memorial wood and about 1530 on the other side of the main path. Was able to view from around 40-50 yards, pretty special actually, maybe 80 birds, a first for me, only the second time I've seen Brambling at all.
My list for the day as follows: Ashway Gap Brambling 60-70 Coal Tit Treecreeper Several Blue, Great Tit, Chaffinch feeding with the Brambling Path to Binn Green Goldcrest 2 Song Thrush Bullfinch m Pheasant m Feeders (very enjoyable chatting to 3 RSPB volunteers) Great Spotted Woodpecker m Siskin m 3 more about but tricky to count Brambling m 2 f 1 Nuthatch Coal Tit Bullfinch m and f Lots of Chaffinch, Green and Goldfinch, Great and Blue Tits as you'd expect 2 more Treecreeper in the conifers below Binn Green Path up to the top moor/bog then over to Chew Reservoir Pheasant f 2 Raven 2 Red Grouse 4 Snipe 20-25 flushed up and flew off as a flock Path down Raven on its own then the pair again Stonechat m and f
In hindsight the flock mentioned above weren't Snipe, more likely Golden Plover.
Richard Belter said
Sat Feb 1 1:10 PM, 2014
At least 10 brambling by feeders at Binn Green this morning
Mark Rigby said
Tue Jan 21 12:41 PM, 2014
1200 Binn Green
3 Brambling 27 Siskin Great Spotted Woodpecker Treecreeper
C Brown said
Sun Jan 19 8:27 PM, 2014
Male brambling with plenty of chaffinches this afternoon, also oodles of siskin amongst the normal stuff.
Regards, Chris
JSPALDING said
Sat Jan 18 3:37 PM, 2014
3 brambling at the Binn Green car park, apparently the large flock were seen yesterday in the area around the memorial forest.
Mike Chorley said
Tue Jan 14 7:43 PM, 2014
No sign of the Brambling flock in any of the usual places, but 1 male eventually turned up at Binn Green feeders, with the small and well-scattered Chaffinch flock. Also: Siskin 3 minimum Goldfinch 1 singing Treecreeper 1 Mistle Thrush 2 Phesant 4 Sparrowhawk 1 over Blue, Great & Coal Tits Blackbird, Robin & Dunnock
Memorial Forest Reed Bunting 5 Jay 1 Treecreeper 1 Nuthatch 1 Coal Tit 6 Wren 1 Blue 7 Great Tit Blackbird 4 Robin 1
Managed to forget the 2 ravens over Alderman's Hill
-- Edited by Mike Chorley on Wednesday 15th of January 2014 07:30:16 PM
Ian Boote said
Sun Jan 12 7:10 PM, 2014
Yip! nice to meet yourself as well.
John Doherty said
Sun Jan 12 4:18 PM, 2014
Ian, was that you with the green jacket? I was the one with the collllllld hands and blue rain jacket at Binn Green - if so, pleased to meet you!
Eventually, 1 Brambling made an appearance. Nice to see Siskins at close range, plus all the usual suspects.
Above the road I had a Kestrel hunting
Ian Boote said
Sun Jan 12 1:35 PM, 2014
Brambling at least 80 flying around the memorial forest and feeding on the floor giving very close up views if jumpy. Also Treecreeper, Goldcrest, Reed Bunting, Kestrel, Coal tits, Goldfinch Greenfinch and Chaffinches. On the feeders Siskins.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 12th of January 2014 02:22:31 PM
Simon Gough said
Sun Jan 12 10:39 AM, 2014
I saw the big Brambling flock twice yesterday: about 830, as it was snowing (!) in the memorial wood and about 1530 on the other side of the main path. Was able to view from around 40-50 yards, pretty special actually, maybe 80 birds, a first for me, only the second time I've seen Brambling at all.
My list for the day as follows: Ashway Gap Brambling 60-70 Coal Tit Treecreeper Several Blue, Great Tit, Chaffinch feeding with the Brambling Path to Binn Green Goldcrest 2 Song Thrush Bullfinch m Pheasant m Feeders (very enjoyable chatting to 3 RSPB volunteers) Great Spotted Woodpecker m Siskin m 3 more about but tricky to count Brambling m 2 f 1 Nuthatch Coal Tit Bullfinch m and f Lots of Chaffinch, Green and Goldfinch, Great and Blue Tits as you'd expect 2 more Treecreeper in the conifers below Binn Green Path up to the top moor/bog then over to Chew Reservoir Pheasant f 2 Raven 2 Red Grouse 4 Snipe 20-25 flushed up and flew off as a flock Path down Raven on its own then the pair again Stonechat m and f
Mark Rigby said
Sat Jan 11 4:02 PM, 2014
At least 6 Brambling near memorial wood/sailing club but the main flock had flown towards Ashway Gap. Lots of finch flocks flying around the area (into per T Mather and G Crowther)
2 Brambling at Binn Green feeders also
40+ Chaffinch
Goldfinch
Coal Tit
Siskin (difficult to count never mind see but lots present)
Great Spotted Woodpecker
2 Raven
Nuthatch
Mistle Thrush singing
-- Edited by Mark Rigby on Saturday 11th of January 2014 04:07:52 PM
John Doherty said
Fri Jan 10 5:11 PM, 2014
Visited today, PM.
I noticed that there's seed down just past the Memorial Forest. This was a hive of birds, including Coal Tit, Chaffinch, a pair of Brambling. There was a stunning Brambling foraging nearby - could see the yellow bill perfectly.
Somebody reported a bird of prey by the stream and as I went down to investigate I hit a seam of Bramblings - I'd guestimate in excess of 80, maybe more in the trees by the stream. Something flew down calling, possibly Dipper, as I got close views. The bulk of the Bramblings then flew into the Memorial Forest itself.
I encountered the bird of prey - it was a Kestrel. Above the main road earlier I had seen a hunting Buzzard. But surprisingly, as I made my way towards the Clarence to catch the bus, there was several Bramblings - half a dozen - flitting into the high trees to feed, not disturbed even when a massive juggernaut shuddered past. A worthwhile visit for sure.
-- Edited by John Doherty on Friday 10th of January 2014 05:12:14 PM
Andy Voisey said
Fri Jan 10 11:25 AM, 2014
Visited yesterday and saw about 20 Brambling flitting between the sailing club and the beech trees on the other side of the road.
They are very wary though and I struggled to get a reasonable photograph.
I would think the beech wood may keep them in the area.
-- Edited by Andy Voisey on Friday 10th of January 2014 11:26:36 AM
kerry skelhorn said
Tue Jan 7 3:39 PM, 2014
Pleasantly suprised to find a flock of about 60 Brambling near sailing club Also in the general area - chaffinch, treecreepers, nuthatch calling, blue tit, great tit, dipper (at stream) & kestrel
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 7th of January 2014 04:37:50 PM
Paul Rafferty said
Fri Jan 3 6:45 PM, 2014
Buzzard flew out in front of us. Other than saw the usual.
Roger Baker 3 said
Wed Nov 27 5:14 PM, 2013
Weds 27th Nov. 14.30 - 15.15 hrs.
Around the car-park. Just called in with an hour to kill.
Plenty of Chaffinch moving around. Greenfinch (3m) Siskin (1f) Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Roger.
Ian McKerchar said
Sun Nov 3 12:27 AM, 2013
Originally posted by today Dave Agnew:
Lots of thrushes in and around Dick Clough and Hawkyard near Binn Green. A merlin too. 3 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush on power lines there. Kestrel mobbing buzzard too.
Charles Farrell said
Sat Sep 21 7:16 AM, 2013
20-Sep: 3:30 - 5:30PM Walk around the main reservoir - dry, cool and quite pleasant. - Kestrel - c12 Swallow - Several rattling Mistle Thrush chasing off flocks of Starling. - 6+ calling Siskin - 2 Pied Wagtail - Canada Goose - Meadow Pipit + small numbers of Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Magpie, Mallard, Black-headed Gull and not a lot else
According to the RSPB sight they do occur or maybe that's a marketing ploy :P
I would love to show it to an expert recorder from within the Greater Manchester area. I live in Haslingden in Rossendale. I have no idea how to upload it. I have never done it before. it would be quicker meeting someone. I could possibly be in the North Manchester area early afternoon tomorrow ie around Manch Fort shopping centre ...if any one is around that area?
JamieDunning said
Wed Aug 28 1:02 AM, 2013
Hi Safraz, I've sent you a Private message. Peregrine would be a much more likely candidate for this area over Goshawk (Though anything is possible!), had you considered this? Cheers J
Sarfraz Hayat said
Tue Aug 27 11:41 PM, 2013
Why did nt I say it was a Peregrine? Well when I look at the bird on the video recorder screen I see a not very clear image but It has a grey-brown wing which contrasts with the pale white body and legs. The video footage is not 100% clear and then you had the afternoon sun therefore it looks like there is some grey marking but the bird looks quite pale underneath. There appears to be no moustache. There appears to be a white patch/line/marking over the eye. The eye looks almost orangey/yellow but then I am not sure if that is manipulated by the distance, lighting. The bird is quite distant. It has quite thick feathery pants. It had caught a prey item which 25-40cm in length looked quite miniature.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Saturday 21st of September 2013 07:11:14 AM
Sarfraz Hayat said
Tue Aug 27 1:10 AM, 2013
From 3.30-5.45pm Monday 26 August.....a very busy day with lots of people. 3 Stonechats , some meadow Pipits, 1 kestrel, 3 Raven, 1 possible Goshawk on the moors (to be confirmed) - I have video footage of it, 2 Golden Plover in flight, red Grouse in flight, many calling around
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 8th of September 2013 07:35:23 AM
John Doherty said
Mon Jul 15 11:28 PM, 2013
Had a walk around today in good weather.
Road from Greenfield - Nuthatch calling
Binn Green - Singing Treecreeper, Jay, several Coal Tits including fledged birds, Bullfinch pair + usual stuff
On the walkway between Chew and Dove Stone reservoirs I struck gold when a F Stonechat made an appearance on the ferns.
1 Meadow Pipit on the way out.
Chris Harper said
Sun Jun 16 5:01 PM, 2013
Walk up to the stones via Chew valley 9.30-12.30:
Great Spotted Woodpecker Many Meadow Pipits Common Buzzard 2 Willow Warbler 3 Swift Pied Wagtail
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 16th of June 2013 06:17:58 PM
Ian Boote said
Sun Jun 9 9:22 PM, 2013
Walk up to Chew Res and up the side, along the escarpment and back through the quarry. The world and his dog were out. The dog came from nowhere in the middle of nowhere and spooked every bird within a moving 200 metre radius of it and its owner. Nonetheless Three Red Grouse on the way up to Chew, on Chew RsMallards Herring Gulls, Two broods of Canada Geese, Curlew, Common Sandpiper and heard Redshank, Pied Wagtail, Skylarks, along the top Stonechat Meadow Pipits everywhere, several Golden Plover one giving fairly close views, Raven, through the Quarry Wheatear, More Meadow Pipits and lots of Willow Warbler and a Blackcap further down.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 9th of June 2013 09:55:06 PM
PaulBaker said
Sun Jun 2 9:28 AM, 2013
1/6/2013
Binn Green 3 Lesser redpoll m/f Siskin m/f Bullfinch Great Spotted Woodpecker And the rest of the usual suspects no Crossbill unfortunately.
m/f Stonechat showing great to the left of the bridge by the picnic area
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 2nd of June 2013 03:07:32 PM
Chris Harper said
Sun May 26 7:30 PM, 2013
Yesterday 11-1.30: 2 Red Legged Partridge 4 Tree Pipit Dipper Peregrine Wheatear Many Meadow Pipit
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 28th of May 2013 04:37:35 PM
Giselle Hayers said
Sat May 25 4:57 PM, 2013
10.00-14.30
2 Crossbill in pines by Binn Green Feeders. Coal Tit
6 Siskin 2 Redpoll around Yeoman Hey
3 Common Sandpiper around Greenfield Res.
3 Dipper 4 Grey Wagtail along Greenfield Brook; both species were carrying food.
2 Raven 1 Peregrine 1 Buzzard
lots of Meadow Pipits carrying food. Was hoping for a Ring Ouzel but dipped out completely.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Saturday 25th of May 2013 05:40:41 PM
John Doherty said
Fri May 17 11:08 PM, 2013
Had a wander up to Binn Green today before weather turned grey - highlights on the feeders were M Bullfinch, 1-2 Lesser Redpoll, 6ish Siskin, Coal Tits, Chaffinches, Great Spotted Woodpecker, etc etc
On the res. there was a lot of Wader-like squabbling and two Oystercatcher flew off (later heard in the valley) and another two remained behind on the Yeoman Hay side, plus a Curlew was heard.
JSPALDING said
Sun May 12 2:48 AM, 2013
9 am this morning, 2 pairs of stonechat and good views of a ring ouzel singing from a tree. Surprisingly low down in the valley.
JSPALDING said
Mon May 6 2:03 PM, 2013
9 am this morning, raven and 1 female ring ouzel. Plenty of willow warblers but no sign of any flycatchers.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 28th of May 2013 04:38:47 PM
JSPALDING said
Sat May 4 1:34 AM, 2013
Fairly quiet this morning the highlight being close views of a male redstart.
John Doherty said
Thu May 2 12:10 AM, 2013
Today, PM
Singing Coal Tit and Treecreeper 2 x Lesser Redpoll on feeders by main car park, quality views. 40+ Jackdaws. Nuthatch heard on road back to Greenfield.
John Doherty said
Sun Apr 28 1:46 AM, 2013
Worth the trip today because of the beautiful Spring day; nice to see the lambs.
Noteworthy birds -
Coal Tit -1 4 Common Sandpipers
Ian McKerchar said
Sat Apr 13 10:31 PM, 2013
Common tern this afternoon (2:40ish). Flew over Yeoman Hey and Dovestone Reservoirs.
Info thanks to Jamie Dunning
Ian McKerchar said
Tue Apr 2 1:18 AM, 2013
Alan Turner wrote:
Osprey, presumably the same one Rob saw in Hollingworth, over the causeway between Dovestone and Yeoman Hey shortly after 5pm. Headed north east.
Unfortunately Rob didn't see it; he was just passing the info on
Alan Turner said
Tue Apr 2 1:11 AM, 2013
Osprey, presumably the same one Rob saw in Hollingworth, over the causeway between Dovestone and Yeoman Hey shortly after 5pm. Headed north east.
JamieDunning said
Mon Mar 18 4:28 PM, 2013
Highlights from yesterday include Curlew Oystercatcher Lapwing a flock of 6 Reed bunting that has been in the area all winter.
I don't want to start up a "dog owners against the world" thread, and am mindful that this is the bird sightings section of the site, but as a dog owner that does exercise his dogs off the lead and birdwatches at the same time (though not on an RSPB reserve, I may add), there is little worse than seeing an out of control dog spoiling other people's enjoyment. Regulations state that dogs off the lead should be "under close control", which effectively means trained well enough to return to the owner on command. Dogs walked through areas with livestock, particularly sheep, should be on a short lead. The same goes for dog mess - there is nothing more irritating to a responsible dog owner that playing hop-scotch along muck-ridden towpaths or footpaths. It's no fun washing other dogs' faeces from my dogs' fur!
Aside from the police advice, I would inform Oldham MBC, whose responsibilty the area is, because as has been pointed out, the area is well used for recreation by adults, children, and animals alike. They will also know who owns the land and who the tenant farmer is.
Finally (you all sigh) I do not wish to generalise but, in my experience, people whose dogs are trained to attack other animals are not usually easily swayed by reasoned argument, and those dog owners who were described as trying to ignore the situation were probably concerned that their pets would meet a fate similar to that experienced by the sheep.
All the more reason that Oldham MBC should know what is going on. After all, they are happy to collect car parking fees from the area, so should be able to send officers to police it. They would say that if they do not know there is a problem then they cannot take steps to solve it.
I managed to get some photos of the (Staffordshire-type) dog concerned, but none of the owner, who was 100-200yd away up the hillside towards Chew Res.
I'm sure that it wasn't the only dog off its lead at the time. :(
To add to Charles' from the 1st,
a Dipper pair on Chew brook, though at opposite ends of the valley
& a male tawny owl calling in broad day light from 3:20 all the way through to around 4:45pm from Fletchers birch wood.
Oyster catcher high, SE over res (as well as usual pair) around 4:00.
Cheers.
Good couple of hours walking around Yeoman Hay and Dovestones. Not a huge number of birds but pleasant all the same.
- 20+ Siskin (mainly around the Binn Green feeders)
- 10+ Coal Tit (all around)
- lots of Blue and Great Tit (around Binn Green)
- 16+ Chaffinch (Binn Green and Other Car Park feeder)
- 80+ Black-headed Gull (on rafts on Dovestone Res)
- 2 Oystercatcher (also on rafts)
- c30 Mallard
The RSPB staff had been watching the Peregrines but they had drifted off over the tops by the time we reached the watchpoint.
Also watched (with others) in horror as an out of control dog took down and killed an adult sheep, then ran around covered in blood. The owner (more interested in talking on their phone than watching what the dog was doing) seemed incapable of controlling the dog and carried on walking up the valley and avoiding us. Other dog owners tried to ignore what was going on but did at least keep their dogs on a lead. Quite shocking.
Regards, Chris
But you're right - Golden Plover aren't normally up on the high moorland at this time of year. January would normally see them with Lapwings in a lowland pasture - or on the roof of warm warehouse! Whether these birds are our local moorland breeders or migrants from further north is a matter of some debate. It might not seem like it to us (particularly today) but this winter has been pretty mild - and Golden Plover are tough little birds!
Hi Simon
that sounds much more likely. A friend who was volunteering up by Chew Resr the following day reported 35 - 40 Golden Plover in the area
In hindsight the flock mentioned above weren't Snipe, more likely Golden Plover.
3 Brambling
27 Siskin
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Treecreeper
Regards, Chris
Also:
Siskin 3 minimum
Goldfinch 1 singing
Treecreeper 1
Mistle Thrush 2
Phesant 4
Sparrowhawk 1 over
Blue, Great & Coal Tits
Blackbird, Robin & Dunnock
Memorial Forest
Reed Bunting 5
Jay 1
Treecreeper 1
Nuthatch 1
Coal Tit 6
Wren 1
Blue 7 Great Tit
Blackbird 4
Robin 1
Managed to forget the 2 ravens over Alderman's Hill
-- Edited by Mike Chorley on Wednesday 15th of January 2014 07:30:16 PM
Yip! nice to meet yourself as well.
Ian, was that you with the green jacket? I was the one with the collllllld hands and blue rain jacket at Binn Green - if so, pleased to meet you!
Eventually, 1 Brambling made an appearance. Nice to see Siskins at close range, plus all the usual suspects.
Above the road I had a Kestrel hunting
Brambling at least 80 flying around the memorial forest and feeding on the floor giving very close up views if jumpy. Also Treecreeper, Goldcrest, Reed Bunting, Kestrel, Coal tits, Goldfinch Greenfinch and Chaffinches. On the feeders Siskins.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 12th of January 2014 02:22:31 PM
My list for the day as follows:
Ashway Gap
Brambling 60-70
Coal Tit
Treecreeper
Several Blue, Great Tit, Chaffinch feeding with the Brambling
Path to Binn Green
Goldcrest 2
Song Thrush
Bullfinch m
Pheasant m
Feeders (very enjoyable chatting to 3 RSPB volunteers)
Great Spotted Woodpecker m
Siskin m 3 more about but tricky to count
Brambling m 2 f 1
Nuthatch
Coal Tit
Bullfinch m and f
Lots of Chaffinch, Green and Goldfinch, Great and Blue Tits as you'd expect
2 more Treecreeper in the conifers below Binn Green
Path up to the top moor/bog then over to Chew Reservoir
Pheasant f 2
Raven 2
Red Grouse 4
Snipe 20-25 flushed up and flew off as a flock
Path down
Raven on its own then the pair again
Stonechat m and f
-- Edited by Mark Rigby on Saturday 11th of January 2014 04:07:52 PM
Visited today, PM.
I noticed that there's seed down just past the Memorial Forest. This was a hive of birds, including Coal Tit, Chaffinch, a pair of Brambling. There was a stunning Brambling foraging nearby - could see the yellow bill perfectly.
Somebody reported a bird of prey by the stream and as I went down to investigate I hit a seam of Bramblings - I'd guestimate in excess of 80, maybe more in the trees by the stream. Something flew down calling, possibly Dipper, as I got close views. The bulk of the Bramblings then flew into the Memorial Forest itself.
I encountered the bird of prey - it was a Kestrel. Above the main road earlier I had seen a hunting Buzzard. But surprisingly, as I made my way towards the Clarence to catch the bus, there was several Bramblings - half a dozen - flitting into the high trees to feed, not disturbed even when a massive juggernaut shuddered past. A worthwhile visit for sure.
-- Edited by John Doherty on Friday 10th of January 2014 05:12:14 PM
Visited yesterday and saw about 20 Brambling flitting between the sailing club and the beech trees on the other side of the road.
They are very wary though and I struggled to get a reasonable photograph.
I would think the beech wood may keep them in the area.
-- Edited by Andy Voisey on Friday 10th of January 2014 11:26:36 AM
Pleasantly suprised to find a flock of about 60 Brambling near sailing club
Also in the general area - chaffinch, treecreepers, nuthatch calling, blue tit, great tit, dipper (at stream) & kestrel
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 7th of January 2014 04:37:50 PM
Around the car-park. Just called in with an hour to kill.
Plenty of Chaffinch moving around.
Greenfinch (3m)
Siskin (1f)
Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Roger.
Lots of thrushes in and around Dick Clough and Hawkyard near Binn Green. A merlin too. 3 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush on power lines there. Kestrel mobbing buzzard too.
Walk around the main reservoir - dry, cool and quite pleasant.
- Kestrel
- c12 Swallow
- Several rattling Mistle Thrush chasing off flocks of Starling.
- 6+ calling Siskin
- 2 Pied Wagtail
- Canada Goose
- Meadow Pipit
+ small numbers of Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Magpie, Mallard, Black-headed Gull
and not a lot else
Sorry this but looks browner
http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/g/goshawk/index.aspx
Hi j
According to the RSPB sight they do occur or maybe that's a marketing ploy :P
I would love to show it to an expert recorder from within the Greater Manchester area. I live in Haslingden in Rossendale. I have no idea how to upload it. I have never done it before. it would be quicker meeting someone. I could possibly be in the North Manchester area early afternoon tomorrow ie around Manch Fort shopping centre ...if any one is around that area?
I've sent you a Private message.
Peregrine would be a much more likely candidate for this area over Goshawk (Though anything is possible!), had you considered this?
Cheers
J
Why did nt I say it was a Peregrine? Well when I look at the bird on the video recorder screen I see a not very clear image but It has a grey-brown wing which contrasts with the pale white body and legs. The video footage is not 100% clear and then you had the afternoon sun therefore it looks like there is some grey marking but the bird looks quite pale underneath. There appears to be no moustache. There appears to be a white patch/line/marking over the eye. The eye looks almost orangey/yellow but then I am not sure if that is manipulated by the distance, lighting. The bird is quite distant. It has quite thick feathery pants. It had caught a prey item which 25-40cm in length looked quite miniature.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Saturday 21st of September 2013 07:11:14 AM
From 3.30-5.45pm Monday 26 August.....a very busy day with lots of people. 3 Stonechats , some meadow Pipits, 1 kestrel, 3 Raven, 1 possible Goshawk on the moors (to be confirmed) - I have video footage of it, 2 Golden Plover in flight, red Grouse in flight, many calling around
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 8th of September 2013 07:35:23 AM
Road from Greenfield - Nuthatch calling
Binn Green - Singing Treecreeper, Jay, several Coal Tits including fledged birds, Bullfinch pair + usual stuff
On the walkway between Chew and Dove Stone reservoirs I struck gold when a F Stonechat made an appearance on the ferns.
1 Meadow Pipit on the way out.
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Many Meadow Pipits
Common Buzzard
2 Willow Warbler
3 Swift
Pied Wagtail
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 16th of June 2013 06:17:58 PM
Nonetheless Three Red Grouse on the way up to Chew, on Chew RsMallards Herring Gulls, Two broods of Canada Geese, Curlew, Common Sandpiper and heard Redshank, Pied Wagtail, Skylarks, along the top Stonechat Meadow Pipits everywhere, several Golden Plover one giving fairly close views, Raven, through the Quarry Wheatear, More Meadow Pipits and lots of Willow Warbler and a Blackcap further down.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 9th of June 2013 09:55:06 PM
Binn Green
3 Lesser redpoll
m/f Siskin
m/f Bullfinch
Great Spotted Woodpecker
And the rest of the usual suspects no Crossbill unfortunately.
Willow Warbler
Chiffchaff
Blackcap
3 Dipper
Wheatear
Meadow Pipit
Peregrine
Raven
m/f Stonechat showing great to the left of the bridge by the picnic area
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 2nd of June 2013 03:07:32 PM
2 Red Legged Partridge
4 Tree Pipit
Dipper
Peregrine
Wheatear
Many Meadow Pipit
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 28th of May 2013 04:37:35 PM
2 Crossbill in pines by Binn Green Feeders.
Coal Tit
6 Siskin
2 Redpoll around Yeoman Hey
3 Common Sandpiper around Greenfield Res.
3 Dipper
4 Grey Wagtail along Greenfield Brook; both species were carrying food.
2 Raven
1 Peregrine
1 Buzzard
lots of Meadow Pipits carrying food.
Was hoping for a Ring Ouzel but dipped out completely.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Saturday 25th of May 2013 05:40:41 PM
On the res. there was a lot of Wader-like squabbling and two Oystercatcher flew off (later heard in the valley) and another two remained behind on the Yeoman Hay side, plus a Curlew was heard.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 28th of May 2013 04:38:47 PM
Singing Coal Tit and Treecreeper
2 x Lesser Redpoll on feeders by main car park, quality views.
40+ Jackdaws.
Nuthatch heard on road back to Greenfield.
Noteworthy birds -
Coal Tit -1
4 Common Sandpipers
Info thanks to Jamie Dunning
Unfortunately Rob didn't see it; he was just passing the info on
Curlew
Oystercatcher
Lapwing
a flock of 6 Reed bunting that has been in the area all winter.