Walked another section of the Trent & Mersey Canal this morning, south from Billinge Large Lake to a point in line with Bostock Hall and then we retraced our steps.
All the usual warblers around with a Cettis at Whatcroft Wides where there were also plenty of Reed Warbler singing away, as were at least four Sedge Warbler. Another Cettis heard blasting away, on the other side of the canal, at the bottom end of Shipbrook Flash. Good numbers of Reed Bunting about, a couple of Buzzard and two Lesser Whitethroat rattling away. The first heard and the second heard and then seen in a hedgerow right by the canal.
Lovely rolling countryside with fields surrounded by hedges to die for, copses, parcels of woodland and the River Dane often running parallel to the canal. Superb.
Forgot to mention. There looks to be some great Spotted Flycatcher habitat. First ones are in now and should be around here, certainly by mid month. Heres hoping.
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Wednesday 6th of May 2020 06:25:14 PM
Neil Blood said
Tue May 5 7:42 PM, 2020
This evenings walk after 16:00, both Sedge and Reed Warblers were rather quiet along the canal in the windy condition, as were most other warblers. The exception were Lesser Whitethroats, with 4 heard singing at various points.
On Manor Lane at Whatcroft, there are now 5 sitting Lapwings in the ploughed field, plus one pair with a single youngster. Its not just farmers activities, which are a threat, the number of Carrion Crows in the area is exceptionally high! The Lapwings are constantly chasing them out of the field.
The only other bird of note was a Drake Gadwall on Shipbrook Flash.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 5th of May 2020 07:42:47 PM
Neil Blood said
Mon May 4 10:02 AM, 2020
No sign of the male Redstart at Billinge big lake this morning around 07:30. All the usual warblers along the canal, a calling water rail at Croxton Flash and a Common Sandpiper flying up and down the canal.
Neil Blood said
Sun May 3 6:42 PM, 2020
Guess I dropped lucky with the Redstart and it probably departed north overnight? I must confess that Ive been lazy in respect to local birding over the last few years, but lockdown walks have really opened my eyes, as to what can be found on my patch!
A male Whinchat was reported on RBA last night at Croxton Flash, as its a 10 minute walk, I popped over but no sign unfortunately.
Today I opted for a cycle ride around Byley, again looking for Yellowhammers on the various back lanes. Only managed a single female, along with singing Reed Bunting, 3 singing Lesser Whitethroats and flyover calling Yellow Wagtail. Also found a group of 6 Lapwings on a recently ploughed field, but couldnt spot any young?
Also a female Goosander with 10 young, where King Street crosses the Dane. Is it another brood, or did I miss count, the group below Croxton Lane 2 days ago?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Sunday 3rd of May 2020 06:44:58 PM
Peter Brown said
Sun May 3 5:23 PM, 2020
Neil Blood wrote:
Opted for an early morning walk today at 06:00, along the usual route. The first bird of note was a female Goosander resting up on the bank with 9 newly hatched young, where the T&M Canal crosses the River Dane. Croxton Flash was alive with singing Reed, Sedge and Cetti's Warblers, along with quite a few singing Reed Buntings, whilst the G C Grebes appear to have failed at their first nesting attempt. The culprit may well be a Mink, as not for the first time recently, one was patrolling the far canal bank this morning.
Later along the canal I paused for a few minutes to listen to both singing Lesser Whitethroat and Garden Warbler, from the same clump of blackthorn bushes. 2 additional Lesser Whitethroats were also heard during the walk. Also 2 Willow Warblers, continuing on territory and plenty of Common Whitethroats singing.
At Whatcroft Wides, 12 Shelducks were resting up, a Canada Goose party with goslings and a G C Grebe could be viewed on its nest in the far bank reeds. More singing Reed and Sedge Warblers, 2 Cetti's Warblers and Reed Buntings also in this area too.
I then ventured onto Billinge Large Lake and scanned the lake from one of the fishing platforms, to see how the G C Grebe's were doing (they tend to do better in this general area, as the fishing club actively trap the mink). My attention was immediately drawn to a singing Male Common Redstart, which was continuously singing from tree scrub area at the southern end of the lake.
Next headed to Shipbrook Flash, which was very quiet, before taking Old Lane, then Manor Lane back towards the Canal. One of the fields which was ploughed only a couple of weeks ago, held 11 Lapwings. 2 were sitting and another pair were guarding 2 young, which was a surprise and not sure how the nest had survived the plough?
Superb stuff,one of the joys of Spring,a singing Redstart,superb
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Saturday 2nd of May 2020 10:51:50 AM
Mark Jarrett said
Sun May 3 3:43 PM, 2020
Had a bit of a reccy down the Trent & Mersey Canal from the Broken Cross at Rudheath down to Whatcroft Wides and back. About one and a half hours from 1pm so, being that time of day, I wasnt expecting too much.
Amongst others, Chiffchaff, Whitethroat, Blackcap, Willow, Sedge, Garden, Reed & Cettis Warbler, Buzzard, Mute Swan with cygnets, Canada Goose with goslings and Great Crested Grebe.
Found my way on to Billinge Large Lake but failed to hear Neils Redstart. May just have a very early morning mooch over the next few days to see if its still around.
Neil Blood said
Sat May 2 10:48 AM, 2020
Opted for an early morning walk today at 06:00, along the usual route. The first bird of note was a female Goosander resting up on the bank with 9 newly hatched young, where the T&M Canal crosses the River Dane. Croxton Flash was alive with singing Reed, Sedge and Cetti's Warblers, along with quite a few singing Reed Buntings, whilst the G C Grebes appear to have failed at their first nesting attempt. The culprit may well be a Mink, as not for the first time recently, one was patrolling the far canal bank this morning.
Later along the canal I paused for a few minutes to listen to both singing Lesser Whitethroat and Garden Warbler, from the same clump of blackthorn bushes. 2 additional Lesser Whitethroats were also heard during the walk. Also 2 Willow Warblers, continuing on territory and plenty of Common Whitethroats singing.
At Whatcroft Wides, 12 Shelducks were resting up, a Canada Goose party with goslings and a G C Grebe could be viewed on its nest in the far bank reeds. More singing Reed and Sedge Warblers, 2 Cetti's Warblers and Reed Buntings also in this area too.
I then ventured onto Billinge Large Lake and scanned the lake from one of the fishing platforms, to see how the G C Grebe's were doing (they tend to do better in this general area, as the fishing club actively trap the mink). My attention was immediately drawn to a singing Male Common Redstart, which was continuously singing from tree scrub area at the southern end of the lake.
Next headed to Shipbrook Flash, which was very quiet, before taking Old Lane, then Manor Lane back towards the Canal. One of the fields which was ploughed only a couple of weeks ago, held 11 Lapwings. 2 were sitting and another pair were guarding 2 young, which was a surprise and not sure how the nest had survived the plough?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Saturday 2nd of May 2020 10:51:50 AM
Neil Blood said
Wed Apr 29 9:11 PM, 2020
A Gropper was reported early doors by Croxton Flash, so I headed that way on my walk early evening, but no sight or sound.
All the usual warblers were singing, including still increasing numbers of Sedge and Reed Warblers, 3 Lesser Whitethroats and my first Garden Warbler of the year.
Also 10 Stock Doves counted, Common Sandpiper and Oystercatcher on Shipbrook Flash, along with 4 Swifts, over the River Dane, where there was a large insect hatch.
Curt Whitby said
Tue Apr 28 8:29 PM, 2020
A quick walk around new pool, whitegate , with the family revealed a pair of drake mandarins and had lovely, confiding views of both male and female blackcaps.
Neil Blood said
Mon Apr 27 8:34 PM, 2020
I wasnt going to post a report from tonights walk, as it was more of the same along the canal; however I came across another 3 singing Lesser Whitethroats, at sites different to those on yesterdays bike ride. So 7 singing birds in 2 days is a good total and its proving to be a good spring for them locally!
Also Drake Wigeon and Common Sandpiper on Shipbrook Flash (out of bounds and I bailiff it for the local fishing club, during lock down).
Neil Blood said
Sun Apr 26 3:40 PM, 2020
Today i went out on my bike, exploring the lanes around Byley, Wharcroft and Lanch Denis, in a further attempt to find Yellowhamers. Only found the one singing Male at Byley, but also had 4 Lesser Whitethroats, singing at various locations.
Also 1 pair of Lapwing, 2 Reed Buntings and numerous Common Whitethroats.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Sunday 26th of April 2020 03:42:30 PM
Neil Blood said
Sat Apr 25 5:45 PM, 2020
Usual route this morning:
Chiffchaff 23 calling/singing
Blackcap 21 singing
Reed warbler 10 singing
Sedge Warbler 5 singing
Cettis Warbler 3 singing
Willow Warbler 2 singing
Whitethroat 2 singing
Reed Bunting 6 calling/singing
Water Rail 1 calling, Croxton Flash
Treecreeper 1 singing
Goldcrest 2 singing
Bullfinch 2
Skylark 1 singing
Stock Dove 4 singing
Lapwing 9
Wigeon 1 Drake, Shipbrook Flash
Mute Swans with 7 signets on the canal.
G C Grebe 5, with one on nest.
Not sure what happened to the Yellowhammers, in the space of a week, I went from none to one, then three singing males, which all appear to have buggered off?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Sunday 26th of April 2020 03:41:47 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Apr 25 3:03 PM, 2020
Four Wheatear in one of the fields in between Hough Lane and Cogshall Lane, late morning.
Neil Blood said
Thu Apr 23 9:46 PM, 2020
Curt Whitby wrote:
Short walk up the t&m canal from billinge to canal pit on 2nd wide. Saw a dead badger floating down the canal, a female sparrowhawk, a kingfisher, reed bunting, a mother mallard with 8 or 9 tiny ducklings and all manner of warblers singing including a couple of Cettis Warblers.
That badger has been floating in the canal for well over 2 weeks - yuck!
Walks over the last couple of nights along the Canal from Middlewich to Whatcroft. Reed Warbler and Sedge Warbler numbers, still slowly increasing as are Whitethroat numbers. 3 Willow Warblers appear to be on territory. Quite a few Reed Buntings now singing too.
All the Lapwings appear to have failed due to farmers ploughing their fields, possibly 4 or 5 pairs? A couple of Fieldfares still around too. Also 4 Mallard broods, plus flyover Shellduck and Goosander.
4 pairs of Great Crested Grebes at various sites, all now appear to be incubating?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Thursday 23rd of April 2020 10:05:15 PM
Curt Whitby said
Thu Apr 23 9:35 PM, 2020
Short walk up the t&m canal from billinge to canal pit on 2nd wide. Saw a dead badger floating down the canal, a female sparrowhawk, a kingfisher, reed bunting, a mother mallard with 8 or 9 tiny ducklings and all manner of warblers singing including a couple of Cettis Warblers.
Neil Blood said
Tue Apr 21 4:56 PM, 2020
Warbler numbers were up again yesterday evening with 23 singing/calling Chiffchaffs and 15 singing Blackcaps. Other warblers included Reed Warbler 5, Sedge Warbler 2, Whitethroat 1 and Willow Warbler 3. Also 2 Cetti's singing.
Other birds encountered included the usual Mandarin pair, Great Crested Grebes, at 4 locations, Kingfisher, Singing Mistle Thrush, Kestrel, increasing numbers of Swallows and Sand Martins, although the House Martins appear to have buggered off and 4 Singing Reed Buntings.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Wednesday 22nd of April 2020 10:38:23 AM
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 20 1:35 PM, 2020
Same walk as last Wednesday, Trent & Mersey canal from Acton Bridge to Saltersford Locks then back via the canal. Weather sunny, cool at first then warming up. Amongst others :-
Five species of Butterfly. Chiffchaff much more in evidence than Willow Warbler as they have been on other sections of the river that I have walked. Number of Reed Warbler and Whitethroat very pleasing and yet another Cettis Warbler territory to add to the growing list around Northwich. On that theme, we have 17 mapped territories on Marbury Patch alone, the first bird having arrived at the end of December 2015. Garden Warbler singing from area of brambles and scrub close to the Leigh Arms.
Mike Chorley said
Sun Apr 19 10:33 PM, 2020
Doc Brewster wrote:
Neil Blood wrote:
Today's walk:
....... Chiffchaffs noticeable by their absence.
Neil, I noted exactly the same and mentioned it from my last walk at Newchurch Common on Friday. I didn't hear a single Chiffchaff on my walk on Newchurch Common and the adjacent mosslands. no walk yesterday as I didn't go to the horses and refuse to drive uneccesarily to bird
In other years when I've been able to get out to do the Webs at Strinesdale I've noted Chiffchaffs turning up first, then disappearing just as the Willow Warblers arrive but then hearing them again on subsequent visits. I remember discussing with Bill Myerscough the possibility of the first wave being birds still moving north to breed, leaving a gap to be filled, rather than taking territories and forcing later birds to move through. It seems unlikely that they would stop singing for a month then start again with no evidence of nesting in between.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Apr 19 9:36 AM, 2020
Neil Blood wrote:
Today's walk:
....... Chiffchaffs noticeable by their absence.
Neil, I noted exactly the same and mentioned it from my last walk at Newchurch Common on Friday. I didn't hear a single Chiffchaff on my walk on Newchurch Common and the adjacent mosslands. no walk yesterday as I didn't go to the horses and refuse to drive uneccesarily to bird
Neil Blood said
Sat Apr 18 3:16 PM, 2020
Today's walk:
2 Water Rails, 3 Reed Warblers, 1 Sedge Warbler and 2 G C Grebes on Croxton Flash.
2 or possibly 3 singing Yellowhammers now at Whatcroft near Manor Lane. Also 7 Lapwings.
1 Drake Wigeon on Shipbrook Flash, along with G C Grebe and a mixed flock of Swallows, House Martins and Sand Martins (latter being a belated year tick).
Billinge Lakes, 2 G C Grebes, Mistle Thrush, Nuthatch and Willow Warbler.
Overall very few singing warblers today and Chiffchaffs noticeable by their absence.
Neil Blood said
Thu Apr 16 9:08 PM, 2020
The usual route between Middlewich and Whatcroft along the canal:
Singing Chiffchaffs, Willow Warblers and Blackcaps were less evident than in recent days.
Usual Cettis (3 singing), G C Grebes and Mandarin encountered.
Swallow and Reed Warbler numbers increasing.
New in and year ticks: Yellow Wagtail x 2, singing Lesser Whitethroat and Common Whitethroat.
Finally found a Yellowhammer at Whatcroft
A few Fieldfares still kicking around.
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Apr 15 10:01 PM, 2020
Walk down the Trent & Mersey Canal from Acton Bridge to Saltersford Locks, then back via the River Weaver. Weather sunny and cool to start with, then pleasantly warm. Amongst others :-
A walk down the river Dane with the family from Davenham sandstone bridge turned up the following - pheasant, goosander, mallard, buzzard, Raven, all common warblers and probably the best spot of the walk a pair of mandarin ducks that were very skittish and flew at first sight.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 13 12:12 PM, 2020
Walk down the River Weaver from Acton Bridge to Dutton Locks and back via the canal. Weather sunny with a cold wind. Amongst others :-
This mornings walk along T&M Canal between Middlewich and Whatcroft:
Chiffchaff 46 singing
Reed Warbler 2 singing (Croxton Flash)
Sedge Warbler 2 singing (Croxton Flash) - Year tick
Willow Warbler 5 singing
Blackcap 11 singing
Bullfinch 6
Reed Bunting 4
Cettis Warbler 3 singing
Song Thrush 7 singing
Mistle Thrush 1
Stock Dove 3 calling
Mandarin
Swallow 3 - Year tick
House Martin 5
Jay 3
Great Spotted Woodpecker 2
Mute Swan 3 nests
Great Crested Grebe 5
Curlew 1
Red-legged Partridge
Linnet 6
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Saturday 11th of April 2020 02:06:37 PM
Neil Blood said
Thu Apr 9 8:06 PM, 2020
Walk from Middlewich to Whatcroft along the canal this evening, with highlights being: 1 drake Wigeon, 6 G C Grebes, 3 singing Cettis Warbler, 1 singing Reed Warbler by Croxton Flash and a House Martin over Middlewich recycling centre.
Neil Blood said
Tue Apr 7 9:49 PM, 2020
Shorter walk along the T&M Canal this evening, only really highlights were 52 Fieldfares sitting in an Ash Tree, 2 Stock Doves, a Drake Goosander and single Cettis
Steve Costa said
Mon Apr 6 10:42 PM, 2020
5/4/20
As I opened my front door (Barnton) for my 'exercise' walk, I was greeted with the lovely sight of a low-flying peregrine, heading into a strong S/SW wind, just above me (a couple of seconds later and I would have missed it)
A walk along lanes and over farmland in the Barnton/Comberbach area produced 2 pairs of lapwings and a yellowhammer.
Neil Blood said
Mon Apr 6 8:41 PM, 2020
Another walk along the T&M Canal from Middlewich in the direction of Northwich. A good selection of gulls on Croxton flash, including 43 LBB, 7 Herring and 2 adult Mediterranean Gulls. 2 Great Crested Grebes and the usual vocal Cettis Warbler also in attendance.
Further along the canal, soon connected with the first of 2 singing Willow Warblers. Also 40 singing/calling Chiffchaffs, 7 singing Blackcap, another pair of Great Crested Grebes and another singing Cettis Warbler. On Billinge Lakes/Shipbrook Flash, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 11 Tufted Ducks and a single Drake Wigeon. Then headed towards Lach Dennis and after days of searching, finally found a single Yellowhammer on Crowders Lane. Also 18 Fieldfares and 10 Redwings.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 6 1:41 PM, 2020
Neil Blood wrote:
Great count Mark!
I extended my walk round Whatcroft today, but still no Yellowhammers.
Thanks Neil. I dont do much birding on the south side of Northwich, other than walks down the River Weaver from the blue bridge at Hartford. Whilst out looking for dragonflies at the fishermens pools, off Shipbrrok Road, Rudheath, I did have a singing Yellowhammer nearby in 2017.
Had my first Swallow of the year this morning by the Trent & Mersey Canal at Dutton. Also nearby on the canal was a Kingfisher. A Skylark was up and singing below Dutton Hall whilst, on the other side of the canal, another two were seen up from Dutton Locks with two Lapwing displaying. A Blackcap was also heard here with a few Linnet and another Blackcap by the canal at Bartington.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 6 8:40 AM, 2020
Another walk through the farmland behind Anderton yesterday morning, initially between Hough Lane and Cogshall Lane then north down Cogshall Lane to where it becomes Hough Lane again and on for another half mile or so. Weather sunny and pleasant. Of note :-
The Yellowhammer stronghold is definitely around Claycroft Farm and adjacent fields and hedgerows. I also had one singing in a new area right at the end of Hough Lane. Best news, though, was the sighting of two Grey Partridge in the recently ploughed field in front of the farm. My first since I moved to Winnington in 2015 and, talking to a couple of the regulars, the first around here for some considerable time.
Neil Blood said
Sat Apr 4 7:38 PM, 2020
Great count Mark!
I extended my walk round Whatcroft today, but still no Yellowhammers.
All the usual species encountered per recent reports, with highlights being a very showy Cettis Warbler (there may be 3 singing birds on the canal between Middlewich and Whatcroft, definitely 2 birds). 30+ flock of Linnets and a single Curlew. More Blackcaps in song too.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Apr 4 7:23 PM, 2020
Fields off Cogshall Lane, early evening, in mild and sunnyish weather, amongst others :-
Yellowhammer (10) Skylark (3) Linnet Buzzard (3)
Very pleased with the Yellowhammer numbers, first double figure count for me since we moved to Northwich in 2015.
Neil Blood said
Fri Apr 3 9:09 AM, 2020
Extended my walk last night around Whatcroft in the hope of finding Yellowhammers, but failed. Habitat looks reasonable, but its corvid city.
Along the T&M canal, birds as previously reported and in addition, several singing Blackcaps, flyover calling Oystercatcher, calling Water Rail and quite a few groups of Redwings and Fieldfares moving through.
Neil Blood said
Tue Mar 31 7:33 PM, 2020
Usual walk along the T&M Canal this evening between Middlewich and Northwich, with highlights being:
2 Mute Swans on nests
6 Great Created Grebes
1 flyover calling Green Sandpiper
3 Kingfishers
29 Redwings in two groups
32 singing/calling Chiffchaff
1 Cetti's Warbler
Flock of 38 Linnets in a field hedge
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Mar 30 2:06 PM, 2020
Fields off Cogshall Lane, Anderton this morning in dull and cool weather. Amongst others :-
Also, several Chiffchaff in woodland by the canal en route.
Neil Blood said
Fri Mar 27 9:11 AM, 2020
Curt Whitby wrote:
I think I bumped into mr Neil blood the other day down a lane in whatcroft that has been closed due to what I think was badgers tunnelling under the lane. I was getting into my car with the family next to the barricade shutting off the road. Anyhow I digress, at this barrier I spotted 2 red legged partridges that ran across the road into nearby hedgerows. I've seen a lot more of these in recent years and have not seen the native grey partridge for a very long time now. Although greys have never been common as such in the fields around Davenham, Moulton, Leftwich, whatcroft, etc, etc you would often see them as a young un 30 odd years ago down eaton lane farm and fields. Many farmland birds such as yellowhammer, buntings, yellow wagtail, snipe, curlew, tree sparrows and even greenfinches have markedly declined in my local area over the same time frame.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 26th of March 2020 10:03:01 PM
Hi Curt, that wasn't me. Re local Yellowhammers, I've not heard one for a couple of years now (between Rudheath and Middlewich). The last reliable place locally was the large field down stream of the bridge, which crosses the Dane, between Billinge and Davenham. Also the other side of the A556, again along the Dane, when the fields were set aside (Yellowhammer city), but no more. Last year there were 3 large set aside fields, near the Morrisons distribution depot, but when I checked, there was no sign of any
Curt Whitby said
Thu Mar 26 8:27 PM, 2020
I think I bumped into mr Neil blood the other day down a lane in whatcroft that has been closed due to what I think was badgers tunnelling under the lane. I was getting into my car with the family next to the barricade shutting off the road. Anyhow I digress, at this barrier I spotted 2 red legged partridges that ran across the road into nearby hedgerows. I've seen a lot more of these in recent years and have not seen the native grey partridge for a very long time now. Although greys have never been common as such in the fields around Davenham, Moulton, Leftwich, whatcroft, etc, etc you would often see them as a young un 30 odd years ago down eaton lane farm and fields. Many farmland birds such as yellowhammer, buntings, yellow wagtail, snipe, curlew, tree sparrows and even greenfinches have markedly declined in my local area over the same time frame.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 26th of March 2020 10:03:01 PM
Neil Blood said
Thu Mar 26 10:53 AM, 2020
Another walk along the canal/River Dane yesterday evening between Middlewich and Northwich, with main highlights:
4 Displaying Great Crested Grebes
Mute swan on nest
25 singing Chiffchaffs
5 Reed Bunting
1 Kingfisher
2 Mandarin (definitely on the increase along the river Dane, seen a pair at Swettenahm recently too)
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Thursday 26th of March 2020 10:55:48 AM
Neil Blood said
Tue Mar 17 9:36 AM, 2020
8 KM walk from Davenham to Middlewich along the T&M Canal yesterday evening, with highlights including:
6 G C Grebe (canal wides)
2 Mandarin
4 Red-legged Partidge
2 singing Cetti's Warbler
2 Chiffchaf
6 Reed Bunting
1 Kingfisher
3 Bullfinch
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 17th of March 2020 09:37:17 AM
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 17th of March 2020 09:38:21 AM
Curt Whitby said
Sat Mar 7 10:36 PM, 2020
A walk down the t&m canal in whatcroft and down the river Dane with the little uns resulted in the following - kingfisher, buzzard, 20 field fare, 30 curlew, cormorant, 2 teal, 1 goosander. First time I've seen Teal on the Dane .
timp said
Wed Mar 4 10:16 AM, 2020
Red kite - Sunday 1st March 1530 - passing north-west over Kingsmead estate towards R. Weaver mobbed by gulls.
Steve Costa said
Sun Dec 29 11:02 PM, 2019
Barnton
Grey Partridge - 4 in stubble field, Cogshall Lane (nearly opposite Hough Lane) at 16:15.
Curt Whitby said
Tue Jun 18 8:41 PM, 2019
A bit late to report as it was last Thursday evening on the way to work. but just for the record there was a red kite flying directly above the main road approaching cotebrook from the direction of sandiway about ten feet off ground level. It was being pursued by a few crows. Great to see on the way to work.
rob archer said
Sun Apr 21 4:13 PM, 2019
Walking a section of the Weaver Way today nr Saltisford Lock a Cettis Warbler burst into song showing nicely. Nice surprise only a few feet away .
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Mar 25 8:08 PM, 2019
Claycroft Farm and Cogshall Lane areas last couple of mornings have included Yellowhammer (2), Skylark (2), Stock Dove (3), Linnet (5), Buzzard up on thermals together (11), Green Woodpecker (1) and Chiffchaff (1).
Doc Brewster said
Wed Mar 20 10:30 PM, 2019
Whilst I wasn't at work today a customer picked up a Red Kite over the new Focalpoint Optics Shop Unit amongst several Buzzards up thermalling.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 20th of March 2019 10:31:08 PM
Doc Brewster said
Fri Dec 14 10:35 PM, 2018
A Hawfinch was reported from a farm garden in Lostock Green near Rudheath this morning (per RBA)
All the usual warblers around with a Cettis at Whatcroft Wides where there were also plenty of Reed Warbler singing away, as were at least four Sedge Warbler. Another Cettis heard blasting away, on the other side of the canal, at the bottom end of Shipbrook Flash. Good numbers of Reed Bunting about, a couple of Buzzard and two Lesser Whitethroat rattling away. The first heard and the second heard and then seen in a hedgerow right by the canal.
Lovely rolling countryside with fields surrounded by hedges to die for, copses, parcels of woodland and the River Dane often running parallel to the canal. Superb. Forgot to mention. There looks to be some great Spotted Flycatcher habitat. First ones are in now and should be around here, certainly by mid month. Heres hoping.
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Wednesday 6th of May 2020 06:25:14 PM
This evenings walk after 16:00, both Sedge and Reed Warblers were rather quiet along the canal in the windy condition, as were most other warblers. The exception were Lesser Whitethroats, with 4 heard singing at various points.
On Manor Lane at Whatcroft, there are now 5 sitting Lapwings in the ploughed field, plus one pair with a single youngster. Its not just farmers activities, which are a threat, the number of Carrion Crows in the area is exceptionally high! The Lapwings are constantly chasing them out of the field.
The only other bird of note was a Drake Gadwall on Shipbrook Flash.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 5th of May 2020 07:42:47 PM
No sign of the male Redstart at Billinge big lake this morning around 07:30. All the usual warblers along the canal, a calling water rail at Croxton Flash and a Common Sandpiper flying up and down the canal.
Guess I dropped lucky with the Redstart and it probably departed north overnight? I must confess that Ive been lazy in respect to local birding over the last few years, but lockdown walks have really opened my eyes, as to what can be found on my patch!
A male Whinchat was reported on RBA last night at Croxton Flash, as its a 10 minute walk, I popped over but no sign unfortunately.
Today I opted for a cycle ride around Byley, again looking for Yellowhammers on the various back lanes. Only managed a single female, along with singing Reed Bunting, 3 singing Lesser Whitethroats and flyover calling Yellow Wagtail. Also found a group of 6 Lapwings on a recently ploughed field, but couldnt spot any young?
Also a female Goosander with 10 young, where King Street crosses the Dane. Is it another brood, or did I miss count, the group below Croxton Lane 2 days ago?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Sunday 3rd of May 2020 06:44:58 PM
Amongst others, Chiffchaff, Whitethroat, Blackcap, Willow, Sedge, Garden, Reed & Cettis Warbler, Buzzard, Mute Swan with cygnets, Canada Goose with goslings and Great Crested Grebe.
Found my way on to Billinge Large Lake but failed to hear Neils Redstart. May just have a very early morning mooch over the next few days to see if its still around.
Opted for an early morning walk today at 06:00, along the usual route. The first bird of note was a female Goosander resting up on the bank with 9 newly hatched young, where the T&M Canal crosses the River Dane. Croxton Flash was alive with singing Reed, Sedge and Cetti's Warblers, along with quite a few singing Reed Buntings, whilst the G C Grebes appear to have failed at their first nesting attempt. The culprit may well be a Mink, as not for the first time recently, one was patrolling the far canal bank this morning.
Later along the canal I paused for a few minutes to listen to both singing Lesser Whitethroat and Garden Warbler, from the same clump of blackthorn bushes. 2 additional Lesser Whitethroats were also heard during the walk. Also 2 Willow Warblers, continuing on territory and plenty of Common Whitethroats singing.
At Whatcroft Wides, 12 Shelducks were resting up, a Canada Goose party with goslings and a G C Grebe could be viewed on its nest in the far bank reeds. More singing Reed and Sedge Warblers, 2 Cetti's Warblers and Reed Buntings also in this area too.
I then ventured onto Billinge Large Lake and scanned the lake from one of the fishing platforms, to see how the G C Grebe's were doing (they tend to do better in this general area, as the fishing club actively trap the mink). My attention was immediately drawn to a singing Male Common Redstart, which was continuously singing from tree scrub area at the southern end of the lake.
Next headed to Shipbrook Flash, which was very quiet, before taking Old Lane, then Manor Lane back towards the Canal. One of the fields which was ploughed only a couple of weeks ago, held 11 Lapwings. 2 were sitting and another pair were guarding 2 young, which was a surprise and not sure how the nest had survived the plough?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Saturday 2nd of May 2020 10:51:50 AM
A Gropper was reported early doors by Croxton Flash, so I headed that way on my walk early evening, but no sight or sound.
All the usual warblers were singing, including still increasing numbers of Sedge and Reed Warblers, 3 Lesser Whitethroats and my first Garden Warbler of the year.
Also 10 Stock Doves counted, Common Sandpiper and Oystercatcher on Shipbrook Flash, along with 4 Swifts, over the River Dane, where there was a large insect hatch.
I wasnt going to post a report from tonights walk, as it was more of the same along the canal; however I came across another 3 singing Lesser Whitethroats, at sites different to those on yesterdays bike ride. So 7 singing birds in 2 days is a good total and its proving to be a good spring for them locally!
Also Drake Wigeon and Common Sandpiper on Shipbrook Flash (out of bounds and I bailiff it for the local fishing club, during lock down).
Today i went out on my bike, exploring the lanes around Byley, Wharcroft and Lanch Denis, in a further attempt to find Yellowhamers. Only found the one singing Male at Byley, but also had 4 Lesser Whitethroats, singing at various locations.
Also 1 pair of Lapwing, 2 Reed Buntings and numerous Common Whitethroats.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Sunday 26th of April 2020 03:42:30 PM
Usual route this morning:
Chiffchaff 23 calling/singing
Blackcap 21 singing
Reed warbler 10 singing
Sedge Warbler 5 singing
Cettis Warbler 3 singing
Willow Warbler 2 singing
Whitethroat 2 singing
Reed Bunting 6 calling/singing
Water Rail 1 calling, Croxton Flash
Treecreeper 1 singing
Goldcrest 2 singing
Bullfinch 2
Skylark 1 singing
Stock Dove 4 singing
Lapwing 9
Wigeon 1 Drake, Shipbrook Flash
Mute Swans with 7 signets on the canal.
G C Grebe 5, with one on nest.
Not sure what happened to the Yellowhammers, in the space of a week, I went from none to one, then three singing males, which all appear to have buggered off?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Sunday 26th of April 2020 03:41:47 PM
That badger has been floating in the canal for well over 2 weeks - yuck!
Walks over the last couple of nights along the Canal from Middlewich to Whatcroft. Reed Warbler and Sedge Warbler numbers, still slowly increasing as are Whitethroat numbers. 3 Willow Warblers appear to be on territory. Quite a few Reed Buntings now singing too.
All the Lapwings appear to have failed due to farmers ploughing their fields, possibly 4 or 5 pairs? A couple of Fieldfares still around too. Also 4 Mallard broods, plus flyover Shellduck and Goosander.
4 pairs of Great Crested Grebes at various sites, all now appear to be incubating?
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Thursday 23rd of April 2020 10:05:15 PM
Short walk up the t&m canal from billinge to canal pit on 2nd wide. Saw a dead badger floating down the canal, a female sparrowhawk, a kingfisher, reed bunting, a mother mallard with 8 or 9 tiny ducklings and all manner of warblers singing including a couple of Cettis Warblers.
Warbler numbers were up again yesterday evening with 23 singing/calling Chiffchaffs and 15 singing Blackcaps. Other warblers included Reed Warbler 5, Sedge Warbler 2, Whitethroat 1 and Willow Warbler 3. Also 2 Cetti's singing.
Other birds encountered included the usual Mandarin pair, Great Crested Grebes, at 4 locations, Kingfisher, Singing Mistle Thrush, Kestrel, increasing numbers of Swallows and Sand Martins, although the House Martins appear to have buggered off and 4 Singing Reed Buntings.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Wednesday 22nd of April 2020 10:38:23 AM
Great Crested Grebe
Willow Warbler (3)
Chiffchaff (c.25)
Reed Warbler (13)
Sedge Warbler (2)
Cettis Warbler (1)
Garden Warbler (1)
Whitethroat (6)
Great spotted Woodpecker (1)
Five species of Butterfly. Chiffchaff much more in evidence than Willow Warbler as they have been on other sections of the river that I have walked. Number of Reed Warbler and Whitethroat very pleasing and yet another Cettis Warbler territory to add to the growing list around Northwich. On that theme, we have 17 mapped territories on Marbury Patch alone, the first bird having arrived at the end of December 2015. Garden Warbler singing from area of brambles and scrub close to the Leigh Arms.
In other years when I've been able to get out to do the Webs at Strinesdale I've noted Chiffchaffs turning up first, then disappearing just as the Willow Warblers arrive but then hearing them again on subsequent visits. I remember discussing with Bill Myerscough the possibility of the first wave being birds still moving north to breed, leaving a gap to be filled, rather than taking territories and forcing later birds to move through. It seems unlikely that they would stop singing for a month then start again with no evidence of nesting in between.
Neil, I noted exactly the same and mentioned it from my last walk at Newchurch Common on Friday. I didn't hear a single Chiffchaff on my walk on Newchurch Common and the adjacent mosslands. no walk yesterday as I didn't go to the horses and refuse to drive uneccesarily to bird
Today's walk:
2 Water Rails, 3 Reed Warblers, 1 Sedge Warbler and 2 G C Grebes on Croxton Flash.
2 or possibly 3 singing Yellowhammers now at Whatcroft near Manor Lane. Also 7 Lapwings.
1 Drake Wigeon on Shipbrook Flash, along with G C Grebe and a mixed flock of Swallows, House Martins and Sand Martins (latter being a belated year tick).
Billinge Lakes, 2 G C Grebes, Mistle Thrush, Nuthatch and Willow Warbler.
Overall very few singing warblers today and Chiffchaffs noticeable by their absence.
The usual route between Middlewich and Whatcroft along the canal:
Mediterranean Gull (1)
Great Crested Grebe
Willow Warbler
Chiffchaff
Blackcap (6)
Whitethroat (3)
Sedge Warbler (1)
Reed Warbler (5)
Pied Wagtail
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Swallow (1)
Mistle Thrush
Buzzard (2)
Kestrel (1)
Tufted Duck
Cormorant
Willow Warbler (2)
Chiffchaff (c.10)
Blackcap (4)
Reed Warbler (1)
Linnet
Skylark (3)
Reed Bunting
Swallow (c.6)
This mornings walk along T&M Canal between Middlewich and Whatcroft:
Chiffchaff 46 singing
Reed Warbler 2 singing (Croxton Flash)
Sedge Warbler 2 singing (Croxton Flash) - Year tick
Willow Warbler 5 singing
Blackcap 11 singing
Bullfinch 6
Reed Bunting 4
Cettis Warbler 3 singing
Song Thrush 7 singing
Mistle Thrush 1
Stock Dove 3 calling
Mandarin
Swallow 3 - Year tick
House Martin 5
Jay 3
Great Spotted Woodpecker 2
Mute Swan 3 nests
Great Crested Grebe 5
Curlew 1
Red-legged Partridge
Linnet 6
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Saturday 11th of April 2020 02:06:37 PM
Walk from Middlewich to Whatcroft along the canal this evening, with highlights being: 1 drake Wigeon, 6 G C Grebes, 3 singing Cettis Warbler, 1 singing Reed Warbler by Croxton Flash and a House Martin over Middlewich recycling centre.
Shorter walk along the T&M Canal this evening, only really highlights were 52 Fieldfares sitting in an Ash Tree, 2 Stock Doves, a Drake Goosander and single Cettis
As I opened my front door (Barnton) for my 'exercise' walk, I was greeted with the lovely sight of a low-flying peregrine, heading into a strong S/SW wind, just above me (a couple of seconds later and I would have missed it)
A walk along lanes and over farmland in the Barnton/Comberbach area produced 2 pairs of lapwings and a yellowhammer.
Another walk along the T&M Canal from Middlewich in the direction of Northwich. A good selection of gulls on Croxton flash, including 43 LBB, 7 Herring and 2 adult Mediterranean Gulls. 2 Great Crested Grebes and the usual vocal Cettis Warbler also in attendance.
Further along the canal, soon connected with the first of 2 singing Willow Warblers. Also 40 singing/calling Chiffchaffs, 7 singing Blackcap, another pair of Great Crested Grebes and another singing Cettis Warbler. On Billinge Lakes/Shipbrook Flash, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 11 Tufted Ducks and a single Drake Wigeon. Then headed towards Lach Dennis and after days of searching, finally found a single Yellowhammer on Crowders Lane. Also 18 Fieldfares and 10 Redwings.
Thanks Neil. I dont do much birding on the south side of Northwich, other than walks down the River Weaver from the blue bridge at Hartford. Whilst out looking for dragonflies at the fishermens pools, off Shipbrrok Road, Rudheath, I did have a singing Yellowhammer nearby in 2017.
Had my first Swallow of the year this morning by the Trent & Mersey Canal at Dutton. Also nearby on the canal was a Kingfisher. A Skylark was up and singing below Dutton Hall whilst, on the other side of the canal, another two were seen up from Dutton Locks with two Lapwing displaying. A Blackcap was also heard here with a few Linnet and another Blackcap by the canal at Bartington.
Yellowhammer (7)
Skylark (4)
Linnet
Long-tailed Tit
Mistle Thrush
Sparrowhawk (1m)
Green Woodpecker (1)
Grey Partridge (2)
Buzzard (1)
The Yellowhammer stronghold is definitely around Claycroft Farm and adjacent fields and hedgerows. I also had one singing in a new area right at the end of Hough Lane. Best news, though, was the sighting of two Grey Partridge in the recently ploughed field in front of the farm. My first since I moved to Winnington in 2015 and, talking to a couple of the regulars, the first around here for some considerable time.
Great count Mark!
I extended my walk round Whatcroft today, but still no Yellowhammers.
All the usual species encountered per recent reports, with highlights being a very showy Cettis Warbler (there may be 3 singing birds on the canal between Middlewich and Whatcroft, definitely 2 birds). 30+ flock of Linnets and a single Curlew. More Blackcaps in song too.
Yellowhammer (10)
Skylark (3)
Linnet
Buzzard (3)
Very pleased with the Yellowhammer numbers, first double figure count for me since we moved to Northwich in 2015.
Extended my walk last night around Whatcroft in the hope of finding Yellowhammers, but failed. Habitat looks reasonable, but its corvid city.
Along the T&M canal, birds as previously reported and in addition, several singing Blackcaps, flyover calling Oystercatcher, calling Water Rail and quite a few groups of Redwings and Fieldfares moving through.
Usual walk along the T&M Canal this evening between Middlewich and Northwich, with highlights being:
2 Mute Swans on nests
6 Great Created Grebes
1 flyover calling Green Sandpiper
3 Kingfishers
29 Redwings in two groups
32 singing/calling Chiffchaff
1 Cetti's Warbler
Flock of 38 Linnets in a field hedge
Skylark (5)
Reed Bunting (2)
Long-tailed Tit
Buzzard (2)
Raven (1)
Stock Dove (4)
Grey Heron (1)
Yellowhammer (2)
Skylark (1)
Linnet (c.4)
Buzzard (2)
Raven (2)
Redwing (1)
Also, several Chiffchaff in woodland by the canal en route.
I think I bumped into mr Neil blood the other day down a lane in whatcroft that has been closed due to what I think was badgers tunnelling under the lane. I was getting into my car with the family next to the barricade shutting off the road. Anyhow I digress, at this barrier I spotted 2 red legged partridges that ran across the road into nearby hedgerows. I've seen a lot more of these in recent years and have not seen the native grey partridge for a very long time now. Although greys have never been common as such in the fields around Davenham, Moulton, Leftwich, whatcroft, etc, etc you would often see them as a young un 30 odd years ago down eaton lane farm and fields. Many farmland birds such as yellowhammer, buntings, yellow wagtail, snipe, curlew, tree sparrows and even greenfinches have markedly declined in my local area over the same time frame.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 26th of March 2020 10:03:01 PM
Another walk along the canal/River Dane yesterday evening between Middlewich and Northwich, with main highlights:
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Thursday 26th of March 2020 10:55:48 AM
8 KM walk from Davenham to Middlewich along the T&M Canal yesterday evening, with highlights including:
6 G C Grebe (canal wides)
2 Mandarin
4 Red-legged Partidge
2 singing Cetti's Warbler
2 Chiffchaf
6 Reed Bunting
1 Kingfisher
3 Bullfinch
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 17th of March 2020 09:37:17 AM
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 17th of March 2020 09:38:21 AM
Grey Partridge - 4 in stubble field, Cogshall Lane (nearly opposite Hough Lane) at 16:15.
Walking a section of the Weaver Way today nr Saltisford Lock a Cettis Warbler burst into song showing nicely. Nice surprise only a few feet away .
Whilst I wasn't at work today a customer picked up a Red Kite over the new Focalpoint Optics Shop Unit amongst several Buzzards up thermalling.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 20th of March 2019 10:31:08 PM
A Hawfinch was reported from a farm garden in Lostock Green near Rudheath this morning (per RBA)
-- Edited by Steve Costa on Thursday 14th of June 2018 02:26:23 AM
-- Edited by Steve Costa on Thursday 14th of June 2018 02:27:11 AM