Flaxfield, and a full circuit of Wild Bank Hill. Cold and windy.
Flaxfield:
1 Whitethroat singing 2 Blackcap singing 2 Willow Warblers singing 2 Greenfinch singing 2 Goldfinch 1 pair of Linnet 6 Swallows 1 juvenile Great Spotted Woodpecker, with an unseen adult calling nearby
Wild Bank Hill:
12 Linnet, several singing males, and a pair copulating 6 Lesser Redpoll 70+ Meadow Pipits, a lot food carrying 8 Willow Warblers9 2 Whitethroat singing 6 Swift 3 Swallows 1 Red-legged Partridge 3 Skylark singing
18 Canada Geese on Walkerwood Reservoir
David Walsh said
Thu Jun 2 1:19 PM, 2016
Thursday 2nd June 2016, 9.30 - 11.30am
Walkerwood Dam and a pleasant wander around the country park
7 singing Blackcap 4 Willow Warblers, one collecting flies 4 Chiffchaff 5 Chaffinch 2 Goldfinch 1 Pied Wagtail 2 male Great Spotted Woodpeckers, at either side of the country park 10+ Long-tailed Tits, including a family group 1 Peregrine over Several Swift, Swallows, and House Martins feeding
David Walsh said
Mon May 30 10:39 PM, 2016
Monday 30th May 2016, 7.30 - 8.30pm
Around Walkerwood Reservoir
c 30 House Martins feeding over the reservoir 1 Swallow 1 Swift 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker 4 Greenfinch singing
David Walsh said
Wed May 25 12:09 AM, 2016
Tuesday 24th May 2016, evening up to 10.30pm
The length and breadth of Brushes Valley. Very windy again on the tops.
Female Sparrowhawk spooking the blackbirds on Harridge Pair of Linnet at Higher Swineshaw Cuckoo singing from Harridge Woods at dusk 4 Tawny Owls hooting on both sides of Brushes Reservoir after dark, plus a female being chased through the woods by noisy Blackbirds Common Sandpiper at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir Skylark calling on Pack Saddle Juvenile Song Thrush trying and failing to smash open a banded snail on the tarmac
David Walsh said
Sun May 22 1:49 PM, 2016
Sunday 22nd May 2016, 9.30am - 12.30pm
Around Higher Swineshaw
1 Oystercatcher on the reservoir, an unusual sighting for the valley Curlew calling from the moor Lapwing calling from Boar Flat 1 pair of Linnet, plus another 2 singing males Several Reed Bunting singing Mistle Thrush feeding on the dam banking Skylark singing over Boar Flat 10+ Meadow Pipits 1 Pied Wagtail
Lower down
1 Cuckoo singing at Cock Wood 1 Whitethroat singing Several Blackcap 1 Kestrel
David Walsh said
Thu May 19 2:06 PM, 2016
Thursday 19th May 2016, 10.30 - 11.45am
Walkerwood Dam, and a leisurely wander around the rifle ranges, on a warm morning.
The highlight for me was watching a newly fledged Grey Wagtail being fed flies by the male parent 3 Whitethroat singing 2 Blackcap singing Lesser Redpoll Linnet Willow Warblers Chiffchaff Couple of Jay
David Walsh said
Sat May 14 1:29 PM, 2016
Saturday 14th May 2016, 6.45 - 11.15am
From Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, as far as Irontongue Hill. At last the wind has died down.
Brushes Valley:
1 Cuckoo in Harridge Woods 6+ Lesser Redpoll 2 Blackcap singing 5 Willow Warblers singing 2 Chiffchaff singing 1 Kestrel Curlew calling at the Kestrel A newly fledged Mistle Thrush being fed by a parent is always nice to see Pair of Common Sandpiper on Brushes Reservoir, and on Walkerwood 2 Swallows over Brushes Reservoir
Higher up:
Pair of Common Sandpiper on Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, including one perched on a post half way up Swineshaw Moor Curlew on the moor towards Turf Pits Pair of Lapwing on Boar Flat 3 Buzzard together over Higher Swineshaw 1 Kestrel Pair of Whitethroat, the male singing, in the Higher Swineshaw area 10+ Reed Bunting, several males singing 4 Linnet 20+ Meadow Pipits 5 Swallows over Higher Swineshaw Reservoir Grey Wagtail flying up Irontongue Hill 6+ Red Grouse 6+ Willow Warblers singing around Higher Swineshaw Skylark singing over Boar Flat
David Walsh said
Thu May 12 1:37 PM, 2016
Thursday 12th May 2016, 10.00am - 12.15pm
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, still an incredibly strong wind from the north east, keeping everything down.
An Osprey flew straight through over Higher Swineshaw at 11.30, more or less due north. 6+ Reed Bunting, including an agitated pair around a nest site Pair of Common Sandpiper flying around Higher Swineshaw Reservoir Curlew calling from Swineshaw Moor My first Whitethroat of the year, singing in Brushes Valley Several Blackcap singing 10+ Lesser Redpoll 1 Swallow battling against the wind at Higher Swineshaw
David Walsh said
Tue May 10 12:22 AM, 2016
Monday 8th May 2016, 7.30 - 9.00pm
Stalybridge Country Park and around Walkerwood
7 House Martins 2 Swift 1 female Sparrowhawk again chasing Mistle Thrush 1 male Kestrel 6+ singing Willow Warblers 3 singing Chiffchaff 1 Blackcap 4 Lesser Redpoll together 3 Common Sandpiper together on Walkerwood Reservoir
Andy Bissitt said
Sat May 7 9:22 PM, 2016
David Walsh wrote:
Andy Bissitt wrote:
David Walsh wrote:
Saturday 7th May 2016, 6.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir and Lees Hill
A promising morning was somewhat spoiled by a cold, strong north-easterly wind, making it difficult to stand still at the top of the valley, and keeping things quiet
David,
Not sure you've got a compass with you!! The wind has been a south-easterly for over 50% of the day so far (only 11% from the north-east). Source Buxton Weather Live. It is a bit too breezy for birding though.
Andy,
When I'm in Brushes Valley, I don't need a compass. Whatever the national wind direction (and before I set out, I checked the BBC weather, which gave the wind as from due east), the wind was howling from Swineshaw Moor, straight across Higher Swineshaw Reservoir. I know because I had to shelter behind the dam wall at one point. Good job I checked the forecast, otherwise I'd have left the bob hat and gloves at home!!
I was out for five hours, so in Brushes Valley, the wind must have been in the north-east for at least 20.83% of the day, by my reckoning
David,
Local conditions can dictate on days like this, I realise. The wind was probably from the NE for a time, but it would have struggled to reach 21 - 22 degrees or more (as it did) if it had blown from that direction for most of the time. Let's just hope something good blows in overnight, from wherever it might be.
Andy
David Walsh said
Sat May 7 6:22 PM, 2016
Andy Bissitt wrote:
David Walsh wrote:
Saturday 7th May 2016, 6.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir and Lees Hill
A promising morning was somewhat spoiled by a cold, strong north-easterly wind, making it difficult to stand still at the top of the valley, and keeping things quiet
David,
Not sure you've got a compass with you!! The wind has been a south-easterly for over 50% of the day so far (only 11% from the north-east). Source Buxton Weather Live. It is a bit too breezy for birding though.
Andy,
When I'm in Brushes Valley, I don't need a compass. Whatever the national wind direction (and before I set out, I checked the BBC weather, which gave the wind as from due east), the wind was howling from Swineshaw Moor, straight across Higher Swineshaw Reservoir. I know because I had to shelter behind the dam wall at one point. Good job I checked the forecast, otherwise I'd have left the bob hat and gloves at home!!
I was out for five hours, so in Brushes Valley, the wind must have been in the north-east for at least 20.83% of the day, by my reckoning
Andy Bissitt said
Sat May 7 1:49 PM, 2016
David Walsh wrote:
Saturday 7th May 2016, 6.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir and Lees Hill
A promising morning was somewhat spoiled by a cold, strong north-easterly wind, making it difficult to stand still at the top of the valley, and keeping things quiet
David,
Not sure you've got a compass with you!! The wind has been a south-easterly for over 50% of the day so far (only 11% from the north-east). Source Buxton Weather Live. It is a bit too breezy for birding though.
David Walsh said
Sat May 7 11:47 AM, 2016
Saturday 7th May 2016, 6.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir and Lees Hill
A promising morning was somewhat spoiled by a cold, strong north-easterly wind, making it difficult to stand still at the top of the valley, and keeping things quiet
1 Cuckoo singing from Harridge Woods 6 Lesser Redpoll, one pair displaying 2 Linnet above Lower Swineshaw Reservoir Common Sandpiper at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, and in Walkerwood overflow Pair of Grey Wagtails carrying food in Walkerwood overflow
Plus the usuals, and that was about it.
David Walsh said
Thu May 5 1:53 PM, 2016
Thursday 5th May 2016, 9.00 - 11.00am
The plan for the morning was to have a good rummage around Lower Swineshaw Reservoir, but heavy earth moving equipment was constantly trundling up and down the valley. I opted instead to linger in the woods at the north east corner of Walkerwood Reservoir, an area I usually walk quickly past, and was rewarded with some gems. Nothing unusual, just nature at work, in warm sunshine.
1 newly fledged Song Thrush, with an agitated parent in tow 6+ Song Thrush in total 3 Treecreepers, including a pair together, both carrying food 12+ Blackbirds 12+ Robins 8+ Mistle Thrush Some individuals of all of the above species seen carrying food 3 singing Blackcap, with two males sparring Many Willow Warblers performing a wing-shivering display, and one collecting nest material 3 Chiffchaff singing 12+ Chaffinch 7 Goldfinch 4 Greenfinch, 2 singing 6+ Lesser Redpoll 6+ Bullfinch Male and female Buzzard over Harridge A female Sparrowhawk caught and ate a Mistle Thrush low down on Harridge A single Swallow around the gamekeeper's cottage Common Sandpiper on Brushes and Walkerwood Reservoirs
David Walsh said
Wed May 4 12:02 AM, 2016
Tuesday 3rd May 2016, 7.30 - 9.30pm
Flaxfield
2 Swallows around Range House 3 singing Willow Warblers 1 Greenfinch 1 Chaffinch 1 Cuckoo singing from Cloggers Hollow
Wild Bank Hill
2 male Wheatears, one singing 1 pair of Stonechat 6 Linnet, 2 singing 6 Lesser Redpoll 20+ Meadow Pipits 1 Skylark singing
Brushes Dam, at dusk
1 pair of Common Sandpiper on both Brushes and Walkerwood Reservoirs 1 Tawny Owl calling
-- Edited by David Walsh on Wednesday 4th of May 2016 10:08:40 AM
David Walsh said
Mon May 2 1:06 PM, 2016
Monday 2nd May 2016, 9.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood area, up to Brushes Cottages
Cuckoo singing strongly from Cock Wood Pair of Common Sandpiper Male Kestrel over Harridge Blue Tits carrying moss into two nest boxes 2 male Blackcap singing around Walkerwood overflow
David Walsh said
Sun May 1 1:14 PM, 2016
Sunday 1st May 2016, 10.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood Dam to Brushes Cottages
A noisy group of 6 Lesser Redpoll around Brushes Cottages Pair of Common Sandpiper on Walkerwood Reservoir Food going in to at least four separate Song Thrush nests Several Jays clattering around Mallard with 14 ducklings
David Walsh said
Sat Apr 30 2:38 PM, 2016
Saturday 30th April 2016, 6.30 - 11.00am
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
1 pair of Treecreepers at Brushes Cottages 20+ singing Willow Warblers up to the scout hut 3 Chiffchaff 4 Lesser Redpoll
Around the Swineshaws
6 Common Sandpipers in very close proximity at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, with a lot of vocal chasing going on. My highest count of adults at this site. 6 Linnet, with 5 singing males looking resplendent against the snowy backdrop c 20 Swallows feeding over Higher Swineshaw Reservoir 3 Curlew 3 Reed Bunting 1 Stonechat
-- Edited by David Walsh on Saturday 30th of April 2016 02:41:03 PM
David Walsh said
Thu Apr 28 11:32 PM, 2016
Thursday 28th April 2016, 9.00 - 11.00am
Walkerwood area
1 male Goosander 1 Cormorant 1 pair of Common Sandpiper 1 pair of Grey Wagtails 1 pair of Pied Wagtails Song Thrush and Blackbirds carrying food 1 Willow Tit - first sighting since 28th March
David Walsh said
Tue Apr 26 11:34 PM, 2016
Tuesday 26th April 2016, 7.30pm until dusk.
A wander through the Country Park, and up to Brushes Reservoir
4 Blackcap, 2 singing males, and a pair displaying 3 Chiffchaff 2 Willow Warblers 2 Chaffinch 1 Song Thrush
Walkerwood area
6 Song Thrush, including two pairs carrying food 1 Cormorant 1 Kestrel 2 Moorhen Pairs of Common Sandpiper on Walkerwood and Brushes Reservoirs
4 male Tawny Owls calling in Brushes Valley
David Walsh said
Sat Apr 23 1:39 PM, 2016
Saturday 23rd April 2016, 7.45 - 11.30am
From Walkerwood Dam, past Higher Swineshaw, as far as Irontongue Hill
30+ singing Willow Warblers counted, including one at the foot of Irontongue Hill 1 Common Sandpiper at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir 4 male Reed Bunting at Higher Swineshaw 6 singing Chiffchaff Pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers at Brushes Cottages A few Lesser Redpoll, couple of males singing 2 newly fledged Woodpigeon Pied Wagtail at Higher Swineshaw 1 Stonechat Buzzard riding the thermals over Harridge Red Grouse on the moors
David Walsh said
Thu Apr 21 1:28 PM, 2016
Thursday 21st April 2016, 8.00 - 11.00am
From Walkerwood Dam, up onto Wild Bank Hill, in glorious sunshine.
Highlight for me was the very early fledging in the area, of a family of Stonechat. I have watched the pair throughout the winters I, and was hopeful of an early brood, given the generally mild conditions. I was rewarded this morning with the sight of both parents carrying food to the fledglings. Mornings like this make up for all the cold and miserable blanks throughout the winter months. For me, breeding birds are what it's all about.
Other sightings:
5 Wheatear, including one singing 3 Lapwing (2 next to Hollingworthall Moor) 2 singing Linnet 2 Lesser Redpoll 13 singing Willow Warblers 2 Chiffchaff singing 4 Skylark singing 20+ Meadow Pipits 4 Red Grouse 1 Mistle Thrush 2 Dunnock
Also, a family of 1 adult and 3 newly fledged Jays at Walkerwood. My attention was first drawn by a "clacking" sound, which was being made by the youngsters' beaks, as they begged for food. I've not witnessed this before. Probably never paid enough attention.
David Walsh said
Tue Apr 19 10:40 PM, 2016
Tuesday 19th April 2016, 7.30 - 8.30pm
Wild Bank Hill
5 Wheatear 1 pair of sitting Lapwing, the most satisfying sighting of the evening. First I've seen here for over four years. 3 singing Skylark 2 Dunnock 9 singing Willow Warblers 12+ Meadow Pipits 5 Lesser Redpoll
David Walsh said
Mon Apr 18 7:52 AM, 2016
Monday 18th April 2016, 6.45 - 7.30am
Walkerwood Reservoir
2 Common Sandpiper 1 Cormorant 1 drake Gadwall 12 Mallard 1 pair of Grey Wagtails 1 pair of Pied Wagtails 1 pair of Moorhen Several Jays moving noisily around
David Walsh said
Sun Apr 17 9:05 PM, 2016
Sunday 17th April 2016, 8.30pm
Common Sandpiper flying around Walkerwood Reservoir
David Walsh said
Sat Apr 16 12:09 PM, 2016
Saturday 16th April 2016, 6.45 - 11.30am
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, with an hour and a half around at Middle Bank
1 Common Sandpiper at Walkerwood, my first of the year, and a day later than last year 8 Reed Bunting, mainly around Higher Swineshaw. A couple of males singing, and a pair 8 Wheatear, mainly males, including a group of six feeding together on Higher Swineshaw dam banking 1 Linnet singing at Higher Swineshaw 2 Curlew at Higher Swineshaw, more over Pack Saddle 1 Peregrine over Higher Swineshaw 20+ Meadow Pipits Skylark singing over Boar Flat
David Walsh said
Fri Apr 15 10:54 AM, 2016
Friday 15th April 2016, 7.15am
A female Wheatear in the treetops by Walkerwood Reservoir was an unexpected sighting. It was chased around by a Willow Warbler, then flew off towards Cote Farm and Harridge
David Walsh said
Thu Apr 14 1:39 PM, 2016
Thursday 14th April 2015, 7.30 - 11.00am, either side of an hour at Middle Bank
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw
21 Willow Warblers singing 4 Chiffchaff singing 3 Lesser Redpoll 10+ Chaffinch singing, plus three young birds chasing around after a male. Seems extremely early for breeding Chaffinch? 2 Coal Tits 2 Reed Bunting at Higher Swineshaw
-- Edited by David Walsh on Friday 15th of April 2016 10:54:55 AM
David Walsh said
Wed Apr 13 9:42 AM, 2016
Wednesday 13th April 2016, 7.00 - 7.30am
A quick walk from Walkerwood Dam to Brushes Cottages and back produced plenty of life, including:
8 singing Willow Warblers 1 Chiffchaff 4 Greenfinch 3 Song Thrush 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker drumming 1 Treecreeper gathering nest material 1 Moorhen on the reservoir
David Walsh said
Sat Apr 9 2:28 PM, 2016
Saturday 9th April 2016, 7.30 - 11.30am
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw and around Lees Hill
6 Linnet above Lower Swineshaw, 2 males singing, first for me here this year. Good to hear. 4+ Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw c 6 Willow Warblers singing along the valley, including at Higher Swineshaw Several Chiffchaff singing 6 Lesser Redpoll, at Brushes Cottages and the scout hut 1 pair of Stonechat at Higher Swineshaw 1 Coot on Walkerwood Reservoir. The first I have ever seen here. Raven over Lees Hill
David Walsh said
Thu Apr 7 5:09 PM, 2016
Thursday 7th April 2016, 4.00pm
An hour around Brushes Rifle Ranges
1 Swallow at Range House 2 Willow Warblers singing behind Range House 2 Chiffchaff singing, one at Flaxfield, the other in the gorse on Wild Bank 12 Meadow Pipits feeding in the fields below Range House 1 Grey Heron
David Walsh said
Tue Apr 5 10:39 PM, 2016
Tuesday 5th April 2016, 3.00 - 5.00pm
From Walkerwood, to Higher Swineshaw, and around Lees Hill
No sign of any Ring Ouzels at Lees Hill, Higher, or Middle Bank at 4.00 - 4.30, so the 3 reported by Rob Adderley were presumably late arrivals
1 pair of Stonechat at Lower Swineshaw Several Reed Bunting Pied Wagtails at Brushes, Lower, and Higher Swineshaw Reservoirs Chaffinch, Greenfinch, and Chiffchaff singing along the valley
Second visit at dusk:
Pair of Curlew on Lower Swineshaw dam wall, at least two others calling after dark Pair of Goosander roosting on Lower Swineshaw Reservoir Buzzard over Harridge Woods just before dusk
David Walsh said
Sun Apr 3 2:01 PM, 2016
Sunday 3rd April 2016, 10.30 - 11.45am
A very quick up and down from Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw. Not much time for counting.
At least 6 Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw Pair of Stonechat at Higher Swineshaw, male singing Several Reed Bunting singing 1 Linnet Lesser Redpoll around the scout hut and at Brushes Cottages 3 Pied Wagtails at Higher Swineshaw At least 6 Chiffchaff singing along the valley Tawny Owl hooting from Harridge Woods Skylark singing over Boar Flat 15+ Meadow Pipits Blue Tits in two of our nest boxes
David Walsh said
Thu Mar 31 10:04 PM, 2016
Thursday 31st March 2016, 9.00 - 11.30am
From Walkerwood Dam to Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
Walkerwood area
1 drake Gadwall on the reservoir was an unusual sighting for the valley. My only previous record was almost exactly a year ago, 4th April 2015. 1 singing Chiffchaff 1 singing Greenfinch 1 pair of Long-tailed Tits 1 Lesser Redpoll 2 pairs of Bullfinch Several Chaffinch
Brushes Valley
4 Lesser Redpoll by Brushes Cottages, including a singing male 1 singing Greenfinch 8+ Chaffinch 2 singing Chiffchaff 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker Curlew calling from the fields between Brushes and Lower Swineshaw Reservoir Female Sparrowhawk being chased by a very agitated Mistle Thrush
Lower Swineshaw
1 singing Chaffinch 1 singing Chiffchaff 2 Mistle Thrush 1 Lesser Redpoll 6+ Meadow Pipits to the south of the reservoir 1 Skylark singing up towards Pack Saddle 1 pair of Pied Wagtails on Lower Swineshaw dam
David Walsh said
Mon Mar 28 11:50 AM, 2016
Monday 28th March 2016, 9.00 - 10.30am
Around Walkerwood Reservoir
1 Cormorant 4 Greenfinch 4 Goldfinch c 10 Chaffinch c 6 Bullfinch 3 Lesser Redpoll over 2 Siskin 1 Willow Tit (first sighting for almost three weeks) 2 Long-tailed Tits 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker drumming 1 Moorhen in the overflow 1 Grey Heron in the field by Brushes Road
Flaxfield
c 20 Redwing 1 Jay 1 Chiffchaff singing
David Walsh said
Fri Mar 25 1:53 PM, 2016
Friday 25th March 2016, 8.30am - 12.30pm
From Walkerwood Dam, up and across Wild Bank Hill, past the trig point, and on to Hollingworth Hall Moor. And back.
The early mist cleared to a lovely spring morning, plenty of singing, and some good sightings.
A Red Kite hunting low over Wild Bank Hill was an unexpected treat, from 9.00 until 9.30, before drifting off over the hill to the east, and out of sight, being mobbed by Carrion Crows and Meadow Pipits.
Other Wild Bank sightings:
1 pair of Stonechat, male singing 1 Buzzard 1 Kestrel 2 Reed Bunting were another unusual sighting for the moor 1 Raven 6+ singing Dunnock, with a couple of very blue looking individuals in the sunshine. 10+ singing Skylark - a fantastic backdrop to the morning 50+ Meadow Pipits, I lost count in the end. A lot of displaying. 10 Starlings on the pylon near to Shaw Farm
Elsewhere :
7 Lapwings in the fields by Moorside Farm 1 drake Goosander on Walkerwood Reservoir 1 Moorhen in Walkerwood overflow 1 Lesser Redpoll over Brushes Road
David Walsh said
Wed Mar 23 7:53 AM, 2016
Wednesday 23rd March 2016, 6.45am
Walkerwood Dam, and a wander into the country park.
My first Chiffchaff of the year, singing weakly in the country park 1 dead Jay beneath the feeder, with its windpipe torn out being the only visible damage 1 pair of Grey Wagtails in the overflow 1 Moorhen 1 Grey Heron Otherwise quiet
David Walsh said
Sat Mar 19 1:16 PM, 2016
Saturday 19th March 2016, 7.00 - 11.00am
From Walkerwood Dam, to Higher Swineshaw, then around Lees Hill, down past Higher Bank, and north along Ogden Clough, as far as Arnfield Flats. And back.
Brushes Valley:
Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw, with 3 seen on the ground. Already being harassed by Carrion Crows. 1 female Sparrowhawk 1 Goldcrest 2 Lesser Redpoll
Further up:
4 Stonechat. 2 pairs, one towards Turf Pits, where I have only previously seen a single male, and the other to the east of Higher Swineshaw Reservoir. 2 Curlew, flew from Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, down to Lower Swineshaw 7 Reed Bunting 6 Meadow Pipits 1 Kestrel at Lees Hill 2 Skylark singing around Lees Hill 1 Raven
David Walsh said
Thu Mar 17 1:42 PM, 2016
Thursday 17th March 2016, 9.15 - 11.45am
From Walkerwood Dam, up onto Wild Bank Hill, as far the northern edge of Shaw Moor, to around 1200 feet. Early cloud cleared to leave a stunning spring morning and the sightings I had, although few in number, combined to give a really good feel to the day.
1 pair of Stonechat, picked up initially by the male suddenly starting to sing in the heather. For me, a real sound of spring. He then moved to a loftier perch, and it was a good twenty minutes before the female appeared, then they both became very active. On my way back, a couple of hours later, there was no sign of them. I see this species on a reasonably regular basis, and it amazes me how they can be either showy and obtrusive, or the complete opposite, even within the same morning. I never tire of watching them.
5 singing Skylark 9 Meadow Pipits 2 Lesser Redpoll over above Cock Wood 1 Coal Tit singing in a birch on the moor 3 Red Grouse 2 Pied Wagtails at Shaw Farm 3 House Sparrows at Shaw Farm 2 Mistle Thrush rattling around the ranges 1 pair of Grey Wagtails in Walkerwood overflow Quiet on the feeder, with 4 Bullfinch squabbling with a Robin
A satisfying morning
David Walsh said
Tue Mar 15 7:57 AM, 2016
Tuesday 15th March 2016, 6.45am
Walkerwood Dam
A flock of c 100 Redwing flew from the west, over the Tame Valley, and landed in the western side of the country park 1 pair of Grey Wagtails in the overflow, the male singing and displaying 1 pair of Pied Wagtails on the shoreline 10+ Bullfinch, who seem to be pairing off now 10 Mallard, including one dead duckling in the overflow
David Walsh said
Sun Mar 13 1:23 PM, 2016
Sunday 13th March 2016, 9.30 - 11.30am
From Walkerwood Dam, up onto Wild Bank Hill to Shaw Farm, then back down past the ranges. There is a lot of fencing work on the moor at present, so not a lot of action at the usually productive Shaw Moor side.
1 pair of Stonechat 4+ Skylark, with 3 singing c 20 Meadow Pipits 6 Linnet, moving together around the birch, lower down the moor Chaffinch singing at Flaxfield 1 pair of Grey Wagtail in Walkerwood overflow
David Walsh said
Sat Mar 12 1:28 PM, 2016
Saturday 12th March 2016, 6.30 - 11.00am
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, then a meandering wander, taking in Turf Pits, Irontongue Hill, Lees Hill, Middle Bank, Pack Saddle, and North Britain, on a lovely spring morning.
Brushes Valley:
1 Goldcrest 6 Lesser Redpoll at the scout hut 4 Goldfinch at the scout hut Chaffinch, Dunnock, Song and Mistle Thrush singing
Higher up:
1 Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw Reservoir 6 Stonechat, as follows: 1 pair on the fences between Irontongue Hill and Boar Flat, towards Green Spot Spring 1 male to west of Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, towards Turf Pits 3 birds near to Lower Swineshaw Reservoir, two males and a female. One of the males, a stunning individual with more white on its wings than I have ever seen, was in full song, and being harassed by the other male. 16+ Reed Bunting, both sexes looking smart in their breeding plumage. 6 singing males, including a couple of pairs, with the females in close attendance calling. 3 Pied Wagtails displaying at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, described perfectly in an account published in 1926, in British Birds by Henry Boase "...the fascinating aerial dancing of this bird, when it appears as a tassel of black and white ribbons in wild gyration as the couples and trios chase and spar". This trio chased and sparred all around the reservoir for over two hours. 1 Lapwing at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir 12 Black-headed Gulls 8 Skylark singing, mainly over Lees Hill and Pack Saddle, but a couple on Boar Flat 12+ Meadow Pipits
Steve Suttill said
Thu Mar 10 8:43 PM, 2016
Thursday 10th March 2016, 9.00am - 12.30pm Heyrod to Mossley circular route via Brushes valley, over t'moor to Carrbrook and along moor edge.
Dipper on river at Grove Road. Curlew calling from Wild Bank. Mr. Walsh and canine company on Walkerwood dam. Many Chaffinch in full song. One Skylark and plenty of Red Grouse on the moor. Curlew calling and circling over Buckton Castle before gaining height and heading north. Little Owl in disused quarry at Noonsun Hill. 8 Lapwing in early stages of display in turnip field at top of Shadworth Lane.
David Walsh said
Thu Mar 10 5:08 PM, 2016
Thursday 10th March 2016, 3.30 - 4.30pm
Brushes Reservoir Dam
1 drake Mandarin 7 Mallard, 5 of which flew off with the Mandarin at 4.15 Tawny Owl flying around Cock Wood Treecreeper in the woods by Brushes Cottages 2 Song Thrush 2 Mistle Thrush 1 Lesser Redpoll calling
Pair of Pied Wagtails at Walkerwood Dam Willow Tit at Walkerwood Chaffinch and Bullfinch everywhere
David Walsh said
Tue Mar 8 10:37 PM, 2016
Tuesday 8th March 2016, 8.30 - 9.15am
From Walkerwood Dam, down into the wet woodland as far as Oakgates, and back.
Valley Bottom:
1 Treecreeper 2 Coal Tits 3 Blue Tits 2 Great Tits Chaffinch singing Several Bullfinch calling
The usuals around the Walkerwood feeder, including the Willow Tit I thought I might find in the wet woodland.
1 pair of Grey Wagtails in the overflow. The first time I have seen both together this year.
-- Edited by David Walsh on Tuesday 8th of March 2016 10:51:43 PM
Deathly quiet at the top of the valley, which was blanketed beneath best part of a foot of snow.
The most notable sightings were 7 Lesser Redpoll, 3 at Brushes Cottages, and 4 around the scout hut 3 Reed Bunting at Lower Swineshaw 3 Red Grouse 2 regular Goldfinch around Higher Swineshaw dam Willow Tit at Walkerwood
David Walsh said
Sun Feb 28 12:44 PM, 2016
Sunday 28th February 2016, 8.30 - 11.00am
From Walkerwood Dam, a full circuit of Wild Bank Hill, then down to Flaxfield, and back past the rifle ranges.
Following yesterday's comment on procreation, I climbed onto Wild Bank Hill with two species in mind, and saw both: a satisfying morning.
1 Little Owl. Only a single this morning, but the first I have seen in the area since last autumn. 4 Stonechat. Two separate pairs, both have overwintered up here, and as long as there are no belated extremes of weather I'm hoping for an early first brood. The pair at the northern end of the moor took some finding, showed for no more than a minute, then disappeared again. 5 Red Grouse 3 Dunnock singing in the gorse, low down on the moor 3 Chaffinch singing at Flaxfield 1 Pied Wagtail at Flaxfield Farm c 8 Redwing in the fields at Flaxfield Great, Blue, Coal, Long-tailed, and Willow Tit at Walkerwood, as well as good numbers of Bullfinch and Chaffinch
Decent weather, and signs of spring. What more could you ask for? A good morning.
David Walsh said
Sat Feb 27 2:03 PM, 2016
Saturday 27th February 2016, 7.00 - 11.00am
From Walkerwood Reservoir to Higher Swineshaw, in an icy breeze with the occasional snowflake.
4 Stonechat around Higher Swineshaw, as two separate pairs. One pair have overwintered, and there have been a male and female seen separately over the past two weeks. These birds were definitely behaving as pairs, and survival seems to have given way to procreation.
Around the scout hut:
6+ Reed Bunting in the rhodedendrons 2 Song Thrush singing 2 Chaffinch singing 1 Mistle Thrush 1 Kestrel
Brushes Valley:
6 Chaffinch singing 1 Greenfinch singing, plus a pair 2 Lesser Redpoll over 3 Song Thrush singing 4 Coal Tits 2 Jays 1 Kestrel
Willow Tit at Walkerwood
David Walsh said
Thu Feb 25 1:32 PM, 2016
Thursday 25th February 2016, 9.00 - 11.00am
1 Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
I also did a circuit of the country park, seeing as the usual muddy paths had been firmed up by the frost. I've attempted to do a count of the whole of the "Brushes Road" recording site, which includes the southern fringe of the country park, bounded by Brushes Road.
(s) denotes singing males.
17 Chaffinch (11s) 7 Song Thrush (7s) 5 Mistle Thrush (2s), including one pair 8 Dunnock (5s) 1 Greenfinch (s) 2 Siskin feeding on alders in the country park 1 Lesser Redpoll 15+ Bullfinch 2 Goldfinch 6 Blackbirds 12+ Great Tits (1s) 12+ Blue Tits 1 Willow Tit 1 Coal Tit 1 Moorhen in the overflow 18 Canada Geese on Walkerwood 9 Mallard
Flaxfield, and a full circuit of Wild Bank Hill. Cold and windy.
Flaxfield:
1 Whitethroat singing
2 Blackcap singing
2 Willow Warblers singing
2 Greenfinch singing
2 Goldfinch
1 pair of Linnet
6 Swallows
1 juvenile Great Spotted Woodpecker, with an unseen adult calling nearby
Wild Bank Hill:
12 Linnet, several singing males, and a pair copulating
6 Lesser Redpoll
70+ Meadow Pipits, a lot food carrying
8 Willow Warblers9
2 Whitethroat singing
6 Swift
3 Swallows
1 Red-legged Partridge
3 Skylark singing
18 Canada Geese on Walkerwood Reservoir
Walkerwood Dam and a pleasant wander around the country park
7 singing Blackcap
4 Willow Warblers, one collecting flies
4 Chiffchaff
5 Chaffinch
2 Goldfinch
1 Pied Wagtail
2 male Great Spotted Woodpeckers, at either side of the country park
10+ Long-tailed Tits, including a family group
1 Peregrine over
Several Swift, Swallows, and House Martins feeding
Around Walkerwood Reservoir
c 30 House Martins feeding over the reservoir
1 Swallow
1 Swift
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker
4 Greenfinch singing
The length and breadth of Brushes Valley. Very windy again on the tops.
Female Sparrowhawk spooking the blackbirds on Harridge
Pair of Linnet at Higher Swineshaw
Cuckoo singing from Harridge Woods at dusk
4 Tawny Owls hooting on both sides of Brushes Reservoir after dark, plus a female being chased through the woods by noisy Blackbirds
Common Sandpiper at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
Skylark calling on Pack Saddle
Juvenile Song Thrush trying and failing to smash open a banded snail on the tarmac
Around Higher Swineshaw
1 Oystercatcher on the reservoir, an unusual sighting for the valley
Curlew calling from the moor
Lapwing calling from Boar Flat
1 pair of Linnet, plus another 2 singing males
Several Reed Bunting singing
Mistle Thrush feeding on the dam banking
Skylark singing over Boar Flat
10+ Meadow Pipits
1 Pied Wagtail
Lower down
1 Cuckoo singing at Cock Wood
1 Whitethroat singing
Several Blackcap
1 Kestrel
Walkerwood Dam, and a leisurely wander around the rifle ranges, on a warm morning.
The highlight for me was watching a newly fledged Grey Wagtail being fed flies by the male parent
3 Whitethroat singing
2 Blackcap singing
Lesser Redpoll
Linnet
Willow Warblers
Chiffchaff
Couple of Jay
From Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, as far as Irontongue Hill. At last the wind has died down.
Brushes Valley:
1 Cuckoo in Harridge Woods
6+ Lesser Redpoll
2 Blackcap singing
5 Willow Warblers singing
2 Chiffchaff singing
1 Kestrel
Curlew calling at the Kestrel
A newly fledged Mistle Thrush being fed by a parent is always nice to see
Pair of Common Sandpiper on Brushes Reservoir, and on Walkerwood
2 Swallows over Brushes Reservoir
Higher up:
Pair of Common Sandpiper on Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, including one perched on a post half way up Swineshaw Moor
Curlew on the moor towards Turf Pits
Pair of Lapwing on Boar Flat
3 Buzzard together over Higher Swineshaw
1 Kestrel
Pair of Whitethroat, the male singing, in the Higher Swineshaw area
10+ Reed Bunting, several males singing
4 Linnet
20+ Meadow Pipits
5 Swallows over Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
Grey Wagtail flying up Irontongue Hill
6+ Red Grouse
6+ Willow Warblers singing around Higher Swineshaw
Skylark singing over Boar Flat
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, still an incredibly strong wind from the north east, keeping everything down.
An Osprey flew straight through over Higher Swineshaw at 11.30, more or less due north.
6+ Reed Bunting, including an agitated pair around a nest site
Pair of Common Sandpiper flying around Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
Curlew calling from Swineshaw Moor
My first Whitethroat of the year, singing in Brushes Valley
Several Blackcap singing
10+ Lesser Redpoll
1 Swallow battling against the wind at Higher Swineshaw
Stalybridge Country Park and around Walkerwood
7 House Martins
2 Swift
1 female Sparrowhawk again chasing Mistle Thrush
1 male Kestrel
6+ singing Willow Warblers
3 singing Chiffchaff
1 Blackcap
4 Lesser Redpoll together
3 Common Sandpiper together on Walkerwood Reservoir
David,
Local conditions can dictate on days like this, I realise. The wind was probably from the NE for a time, but it would have struggled to reach 21 - 22 degrees or more (as it did) if it had blown from that direction for most of the time. Let's just hope something good blows in overnight, from wherever it might be.
Andy
Andy,
When I'm in Brushes Valley, I don't need a compass. Whatever the national wind direction (and before I set out, I checked the BBC weather, which gave the wind as from due east), the wind was howling from Swineshaw Moor, straight across Higher Swineshaw Reservoir. I know because I had to shelter behind the dam wall at one point. Good job I checked the forecast, otherwise I'd have left the bob hat and gloves at home!!
I was out for five hours, so in Brushes Valley, the wind must have been in the north-east for at least 20.83% of the day, by my reckoning
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir and Lees Hill
A promising morning was somewhat spoiled by a cold, strong north-easterly wind, making it difficult to stand still at the top of the valley, and keeping things quiet
1 Cuckoo singing from Harridge Woods
6 Lesser Redpoll, one pair displaying
2 Linnet above Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
Common Sandpiper at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, and in Walkerwood overflow
Pair of Grey Wagtails carrying food in Walkerwood overflow
Plus the usuals, and that was about it.
The plan for the morning was to have a good rummage around Lower Swineshaw Reservoir, but heavy earth moving equipment was constantly trundling up and down the valley. I opted instead to linger in the woods at the north east corner of Walkerwood Reservoir, an area I usually walk quickly past, and was rewarded with some gems. Nothing unusual, just nature at work, in warm sunshine.
1 newly fledged Song Thrush, with an agitated parent in tow
6+ Song Thrush in total
3 Treecreepers, including a pair together, both carrying food
12+ Blackbirds
12+ Robins
8+ Mistle Thrush
Some individuals of all of the above species seen carrying food
3 singing Blackcap, with two males sparring
Many Willow Warblers performing a wing-shivering display, and one collecting nest material
3 Chiffchaff singing
12+ Chaffinch
7 Goldfinch
4 Greenfinch, 2 singing
6+ Lesser Redpoll
6+ Bullfinch
Male and female Buzzard over Harridge
A female Sparrowhawk caught and ate a Mistle Thrush low down on Harridge
A single Swallow around the gamekeeper's cottage
Common Sandpiper on Brushes and Walkerwood Reservoirs
Tuesday 3rd May 2016, 7.30 - 9.30pm
Flaxfield
2 Swallows around Range House
3 singing Willow Warblers
1 Greenfinch
1 Chaffinch
1 Cuckoo singing from Cloggers Hollow
Wild Bank Hill
2 male Wheatears, one singing
1 pair of Stonechat
6 Linnet, 2 singing
6 Lesser Redpoll
20+ Meadow Pipits
1 Skylark singing
Brushes Dam, at dusk
1 pair of Common Sandpiper on both Brushes and Walkerwood Reservoirs
1 Tawny Owl calling
-- Edited by David Walsh on Wednesday 4th of May 2016 10:08:40 AM
Walkerwood area, up to Brushes Cottages
Cuckoo singing strongly from Cock Wood
Pair of Common Sandpiper
Male Kestrel over Harridge
Blue Tits carrying moss into two nest boxes
2 male Blackcap singing around Walkerwood overflow
Walkerwood Dam to Brushes Cottages
A noisy group of 6 Lesser Redpoll around Brushes Cottages
Pair of Common Sandpiper on Walkerwood Reservoir
Food going in to at least four separate Song Thrush nests
Several Jays clattering around
Mallard with 14 ducklings
Walkerwood Dam to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
1 pair of Treecreepers at Brushes Cottages
20+ singing Willow Warblers up to the scout hut
3 Chiffchaff
4 Lesser Redpoll
Around the Swineshaws
6 Common Sandpipers in very close proximity at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, with a lot of vocal chasing going on. My highest count of adults at this site.
6 Linnet, with 5 singing males looking resplendent against the snowy backdrop
c 20 Swallows feeding over Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
3 Curlew
3 Reed Bunting
1 Stonechat
-- Edited by David Walsh on Saturday 30th of April 2016 02:41:03 PM
Walkerwood area
1 male Goosander
1 Cormorant
1 pair of Common Sandpiper
1 pair of Grey Wagtails
1 pair of Pied Wagtails
Song Thrush and Blackbirds carrying food
1 Willow Tit - first sighting since 28th March
A wander through the Country Park, and up to Brushes Reservoir
4 Blackcap, 2 singing males, and a pair displaying
3 Chiffchaff
2 Willow Warblers
2 Chaffinch
1 Song Thrush
Walkerwood area
6 Song Thrush, including two pairs carrying food
1 Cormorant
1 Kestrel
2 Moorhen
Pairs of Common Sandpiper on Walkerwood and Brushes Reservoirs
4 male Tawny Owls calling in Brushes Valley
From Walkerwood Dam, past Higher Swineshaw, as far as Irontongue Hill
30+ singing Willow Warblers counted, including one at the foot of Irontongue Hill
1 Common Sandpiper at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
4 male Reed Bunting at Higher Swineshaw
6 singing Chiffchaff
Pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers at Brushes Cottages
A few Lesser Redpoll, couple of males singing
2 newly fledged Woodpigeon
Pied Wagtail at Higher Swineshaw
1 Stonechat
Buzzard riding the thermals over Harridge
Red Grouse on the moors
Thursday 21st April 2016, 8.00 - 11.00am
From Walkerwood Dam, up onto Wild Bank Hill, in glorious sunshine.
Highlight for me was the very early fledging in the area, of a family of Stonechat. I have watched the pair throughout the winters I, and was hopeful of an early brood, given the generally mild conditions. I was rewarded this morning with the sight of both parents carrying food to the fledglings. Mornings like this make up for all the cold and miserable blanks throughout the winter months. For me, breeding birds are what it's all about.
Other sightings:
5 Wheatear, including one singing
3 Lapwing (2 next to Hollingworthall Moor)
2 singing Linnet
2 Lesser Redpoll
13 singing Willow Warblers
2 Chiffchaff singing
4 Skylark singing
20+ Meadow Pipits
4 Red Grouse
1 Mistle Thrush
2 Dunnock
Also, a family of 1 adult and 3 newly fledged Jays at Walkerwood. My attention was first drawn by a "clacking" sound, which was being made by the youngsters' beaks, as they begged for food. I've not witnessed this before. Probably never paid enough attention.
Tuesday 19th April 2016, 7.30 - 8.30pm
Wild Bank Hill
5 Wheatear
1 pair of sitting Lapwing, the most satisfying sighting of the evening. First I've seen here for over four years.
3 singing Skylark
2 Dunnock
9 singing Willow Warblers
12+ Meadow Pipits
5 Lesser Redpoll
Walkerwood Reservoir
2 Common Sandpiper
1 Cormorant
1 drake Gadwall
12 Mallard
1 pair of Grey Wagtails
1 pair of Pied Wagtails
1 pair of Moorhen
Several Jays moving noisily around
Common Sandpiper flying around Walkerwood Reservoir
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, with an hour and a half around at Middle Bank
1 Common Sandpiper at Walkerwood, my first of the year, and a day later than last year
8 Reed Bunting, mainly around Higher Swineshaw. A couple of males singing, and a pair
8 Wheatear, mainly males, including a group of six feeding together on Higher Swineshaw dam banking
1 Linnet singing at Higher Swineshaw
2 Curlew at Higher Swineshaw, more over Pack Saddle
1 Peregrine over Higher Swineshaw
20+ Meadow Pipits
Skylark singing over Boar Flat
A female Wheatear in the treetops by Walkerwood Reservoir was an unexpected sighting. It was chased around by a Willow Warbler, then flew off towards Cote Farm and Harridge
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw
21 Willow Warblers singing
4 Chiffchaff singing
3 Lesser Redpoll
10+ Chaffinch singing, plus three young birds chasing around after a male. Seems extremely early for breeding Chaffinch?
2 Coal Tits
2 Reed Bunting at Higher Swineshaw
-- Edited by David Walsh on Friday 15th of April 2016 10:54:55 AM
A quick walk from Walkerwood Dam to Brushes Cottages and back produced plenty of life, including:
8 singing Willow Warblers
1 Chiffchaff
4 Greenfinch
3 Song Thrush
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker drumming
1 Treecreeper gathering nest material
1 Moorhen on the reservoir
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw and around Lees Hill
6 Linnet above Lower Swineshaw, 2 males singing, first for me here this year. Good to hear.
4+ Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw
c 6 Willow Warblers singing along the valley, including at Higher Swineshaw
Several Chiffchaff singing
6 Lesser Redpoll, at Brushes Cottages and the scout hut
1 pair of Stonechat at Higher Swineshaw
1 Coot on Walkerwood Reservoir. The first I have ever seen here.
Raven over Lees Hill
An hour around Brushes Rifle Ranges
1 Swallow at Range House
2 Willow Warblers singing behind Range House
2 Chiffchaff singing, one at Flaxfield, the other in the gorse on Wild Bank
12 Meadow Pipits feeding in the fields below Range House
1 Grey Heron
Tuesday 5th April 2016, 3.00 - 5.00pm
From Walkerwood, to Higher Swineshaw, and around Lees Hill
No sign of any Ring Ouzels at Lees Hill, Higher, or Middle Bank at 4.00 - 4.30, so the 3 reported by Rob Adderley were presumably late arrivals
1 pair of Stonechat at Lower Swineshaw
Several Reed Bunting
Pied Wagtails at Brushes, Lower, and Higher Swineshaw Reservoirs
Chaffinch, Greenfinch, and Chiffchaff singing along the valley
Second visit at dusk:
Pair of Curlew on Lower Swineshaw dam wall, at least two others calling after dark
Pair of Goosander roosting on Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
Buzzard over Harridge Woods just before dusk
A very quick up and down from Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw. Not much time for counting.
At least 6 Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw
Pair of Stonechat at Higher Swineshaw, male singing
Several Reed Bunting singing
1 Linnet
Lesser Redpoll around the scout hut and at Brushes Cottages
3 Pied Wagtails at Higher Swineshaw
At least 6 Chiffchaff singing along the valley
Tawny Owl hooting from Harridge Woods
Skylark singing over Boar Flat
15+ Meadow Pipits
Blue Tits in two of our nest boxes
From Walkerwood Dam to Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
Walkerwood area
1 drake Gadwall on the reservoir was an unusual sighting for the valley. My only previous record was almost exactly a year ago, 4th April 2015.
1 singing Chiffchaff
1 singing Greenfinch
1 pair of Long-tailed Tits
1 Lesser Redpoll
2 pairs of Bullfinch
Several Chaffinch
Brushes Valley
4 Lesser Redpoll by Brushes Cottages, including a singing male
1 singing Greenfinch
8+ Chaffinch
2 singing Chiffchaff
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker
Curlew calling from the fields between Brushes and Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
Female Sparrowhawk being chased by a very agitated Mistle Thrush
Lower Swineshaw
1 singing Chaffinch
1 singing Chiffchaff
2 Mistle Thrush
1 Lesser Redpoll
6+ Meadow Pipits to the south of the reservoir
1 Skylark singing up towards Pack Saddle
1 pair of Pied Wagtails on Lower Swineshaw dam
Around Walkerwood Reservoir
1 Cormorant
4 Greenfinch
4 Goldfinch
c 10 Chaffinch
c 6 Bullfinch
3 Lesser Redpoll over
2 Siskin
1 Willow Tit (first sighting for almost three weeks)
2 Long-tailed Tits
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker drumming
1 Moorhen in the overflow
1 Grey Heron in the field by Brushes Road
Flaxfield
c 20 Redwing
1 Jay
1 Chiffchaff singing
Friday 25th March 2016, 8.30am - 12.30pm
From Walkerwood Dam, up and across Wild Bank Hill, past the trig point, and on to Hollingworth Hall Moor. And back.
The early mist cleared to a lovely spring morning, plenty of singing, and some good sightings.
A Red Kite hunting low over Wild Bank Hill was an unexpected treat, from 9.00 until 9.30, before drifting off over the hill to the east, and out of sight, being mobbed by Carrion Crows and Meadow Pipits.
Other Wild Bank sightings:
1 pair of Stonechat, male singing
1 Buzzard
1 Kestrel
2 Reed Bunting were another unusual sighting for the moor
1 Raven
6+ singing Dunnock, with a couple of very blue looking individuals in the sunshine.
10+ singing Skylark - a fantastic backdrop to the morning
50+ Meadow Pipits, I lost count in the end. A lot of displaying.
10 Starlings on the pylon near to Shaw Farm
Elsewhere :
7 Lapwings in the fields by Moorside Farm
1 drake Goosander on Walkerwood Reservoir
1 Moorhen in Walkerwood overflow
1 Lesser Redpoll over Brushes Road
Walkerwood Dam, and a wander into the country park.
My first Chiffchaff of the year, singing weakly in the country park
1 dead Jay beneath the feeder, with its windpipe torn out being the only visible damage
1 pair of Grey Wagtails in the overflow
1 Moorhen
1 Grey Heron
Otherwise quiet
From Walkerwood Dam, to Higher Swineshaw, then around Lees Hill, down past Higher Bank, and north along Ogden Clough, as far as Arnfield Flats. And back.
Brushes Valley:
Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw, with 3 seen on the ground. Already being harassed by Carrion Crows.
1 female Sparrowhawk
1 Goldcrest
2 Lesser Redpoll
Further up:
4 Stonechat. 2 pairs, one towards Turf Pits, where I have only previously seen a single male, and the other to the east of Higher Swineshaw Reservoir.
2 Curlew, flew from Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, down to Lower Swineshaw
7 Reed Bunting
6 Meadow Pipits
1 Kestrel at Lees Hill
2 Skylark singing around Lees Hill
1 Raven
Thursday 17th March 2016, 9.15 - 11.45am
From Walkerwood Dam, up onto Wild Bank Hill, as far the northern edge of Shaw Moor, to around 1200 feet. Early cloud cleared to leave a stunning spring morning and the sightings I had, although few in number, combined to give a really good feel to the day.
1 pair of Stonechat, picked up initially by the male suddenly starting to sing in the heather. For me, a real sound of spring. He then moved to a loftier perch, and it was a good twenty minutes before the female appeared, then they both became very active. On my way back, a couple of hours later, there was no sign of them. I see this species on a reasonably regular basis, and it amazes me how they can be either showy and obtrusive, or the complete opposite, even within the same morning. I never tire of watching them.
5 singing Skylark
9 Meadow Pipits
2 Lesser Redpoll over above Cock Wood
1 Coal Tit singing in a birch on the moor
3 Red Grouse
2 Pied Wagtails at Shaw Farm
3 House Sparrows at Shaw Farm
2 Mistle Thrush rattling around the ranges
1 pair of Grey Wagtails in Walkerwood overflow
Quiet on the feeder, with 4 Bullfinch squabbling with a Robin
A satisfying morning
Walkerwood Dam
A flock of c 100 Redwing flew from the west, over the Tame Valley, and landed in the western side of the country park
1 pair of Grey Wagtails in the overflow, the male singing and displaying
1 pair of Pied Wagtails on the shoreline
10+ Bullfinch, who seem to be pairing off now
10 Mallard, including one dead duckling in the overflow
From Walkerwood Dam, up onto Wild Bank Hill to Shaw Farm, then back down past the ranges. There is a lot of fencing work on the moor at present, so not a lot of action at the usually productive Shaw Moor side.
1 pair of Stonechat
4+ Skylark, with 3 singing
c 20 Meadow Pipits
6 Linnet, moving together around the birch, lower down the moor
Chaffinch singing at Flaxfield
1 pair of Grey Wagtail in Walkerwood overflow
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw, then a meandering wander, taking in Turf Pits, Irontongue Hill, Lees Hill, Middle Bank, Pack Saddle, and North Britain, on a lovely spring morning.
Brushes Valley:
1 Goldcrest
6 Lesser Redpoll at the scout hut
4 Goldfinch at the scout hut
Chaffinch, Dunnock, Song and Mistle Thrush singing
Higher up:
1 Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
6 Stonechat, as follows:
1 pair on the fences between Irontongue Hill and Boar Flat, towards Green Spot Spring
1 male to west of Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, towards Turf Pits
3 birds near to Lower Swineshaw Reservoir, two males and a female. One of the males, a stunning individual with more white on its wings than I have ever seen, was in full song, and being harassed by the other male.
16+ Reed Bunting, both sexes looking smart in their breeding plumage. 6 singing males, including a couple of pairs, with the females in close attendance calling.
3 Pied Wagtails displaying at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir, described perfectly in an account published in 1926, in British Birds by Henry Boase "...the fascinating aerial dancing of this bird, when it appears as a tassel of black and white ribbons in wild gyration as the couples and trios chase and spar". This trio chased and sparred all around the reservoir for over two hours.
1 Lapwing at Higher Swineshaw Reservoir
12 Black-headed Gulls
8 Skylark singing, mainly over Lees Hill and Pack Saddle, but a couple on Boar Flat
12+ Meadow Pipits
Dipper on river at Grove Road.
Curlew calling from Wild Bank.
Mr. Walsh and canine company on Walkerwood dam.
Many Chaffinch in full song.
One Skylark and plenty of Red Grouse on the moor.
Curlew calling and circling over Buckton Castle before gaining height and heading north.
Little Owl in disused quarry at Noonsun Hill.
8 Lapwing in early stages of display in turnip field at top of Shadworth Lane.
Brushes Reservoir Dam
1 drake Mandarin
7 Mallard, 5 of which flew off with the Mandarin at 4.15
Tawny Owl flying around Cock Wood
Treecreeper in the woods by Brushes Cottages
2 Song Thrush
2 Mistle Thrush
1 Lesser Redpoll calling
Pair of Pied Wagtails at Walkerwood Dam
Willow Tit at Walkerwood
Chaffinch and Bullfinch everywhere
From Walkerwood Dam, down into the wet woodland as far as Oakgates, and back.
Valley Bottom:
1 Treecreeper
2 Coal Tits
3 Blue Tits
2 Great Tits
Chaffinch singing
Several Bullfinch calling
The usuals around the Walkerwood feeder, including the Willow Tit I thought I might find in the wet woodland.
1 pair of Grey Wagtails in the overflow. The first time I have seen both together this year.
-- Edited by David Walsh on Tuesday 8th of March 2016 10:51:43 PM
Walkerwood-Higher Swineshaw 2.30-4.30
Tawny Owl calling, Raven, 4 Red Grouse, 2 Siskin, 2+ Stonechat, Bullfinch, 8 Reed Bunting, Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Pied Wagtail.
Walkerwood to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir.
Deathly quiet at the top of the valley, which was blanketed beneath best part of a foot of snow.
The most notable sightings were 7 Lesser Redpoll, 3 at Brushes Cottages, and 4 around the scout hut
3 Reed Bunting at Lower Swineshaw
3 Red Grouse
2 regular Goldfinch around Higher Swineshaw dam
Willow Tit at Walkerwood
From Walkerwood Dam, a full circuit of Wild Bank Hill, then down to Flaxfield, and back past the rifle ranges.
Following yesterday's comment on procreation, I climbed onto Wild Bank Hill with two species in mind, and saw both: a satisfying morning.
1 Little Owl. Only a single this morning, but the first I have seen in the area since last autumn.
4 Stonechat. Two separate pairs, both have overwintered up here, and as long as there are no belated extremes of weather I'm hoping for an early first brood. The pair at the northern end of the moor took some finding, showed for no more than a minute, then disappeared again.
5 Red Grouse
3 Dunnock singing in the gorse, low down on the moor
3 Chaffinch singing at Flaxfield
1 Pied Wagtail at Flaxfield Farm
c 8 Redwing in the fields at Flaxfield
Great, Blue, Coal, Long-tailed, and Willow Tit at Walkerwood, as well as good numbers of Bullfinch and Chaffinch
Decent weather, and signs of spring. What more could you ask for? A good morning.
From Walkerwood Reservoir to Higher Swineshaw, in an icy breeze with the occasional snowflake.
4 Stonechat around Higher Swineshaw, as two separate pairs. One pair have overwintered, and there have been a male and female seen separately over the past two weeks. These birds were definitely behaving as pairs, and survival seems to have given way to procreation.
Around the scout hut:
6+ Reed Bunting in the rhodedendrons
2 Song Thrush singing
2 Chaffinch singing
1 Mistle Thrush
1 Kestrel
Brushes Valley:
6 Chaffinch singing
1 Greenfinch singing, plus a pair
2 Lesser Redpoll over
3 Song Thrush singing
4 Coal Tits
2 Jays
1 Kestrel
Willow Tit at Walkerwood
1 Curlew calling above Lower Swineshaw Reservoir
I also did a circuit of the country park, seeing as the usual muddy paths had been firmed up by the frost. I've attempted to do a count of the whole of the "Brushes Road" recording site, which includes the southern fringe of the country park, bounded by Brushes Road.
(s) denotes singing males.
17 Chaffinch (11s)
7 Song Thrush (7s)
5 Mistle Thrush (2s), including one pair
8 Dunnock (5s)
1 Greenfinch (s)
2 Siskin feeding on alders in the country park
1 Lesser Redpoll
15+ Bullfinch
2 Goldfinch
6 Blackbirds
12+ Great Tits (1s)
12+ Blue Tits
1 Willow Tit
1 Coal Tit
1 Moorhen in the overflow
18 Canada Geese on Walkerwood
9 Mallard