-Well done Simon Johnson, upon entering the club in style!
You were my top tip to reach the mark in my post on this thread of May 30th;- I should have put a tenner on you!
Regards, Mike P.
Paul Heaton said
Sat Aug 9 4:32 PM, 2014
Mr Simon Johnson, Congratulations on becoming a Member of the Greater Manchester 200 Club, and what a entrance, a record submitted to the Rarities Committee, of a Great White Egret flying over Elton Res, has been accepted, thereby, giving you full credit for your talents and finally allowing you membership to the Club.
It is so good to have you as our newest member, and the drinks will be on Simon Warford....
Hope the forthcoming weather blows a few goodies into the county.
Well done.
Tim Wilcox said
Fri Jul 18 8:59 PM, 2014
Mike Passant wrote:
Hi Dave,
For someone who has never met me, you do indeed read me like a book! I certainly would come down; not particularly to get a G. M. hat trick, (though that would be nice ) but to pay due homage to such a great species, and to enjoy sharing the experience with others down there (for most of whom it would likely be a stunning new G M tick). I think that one of the nicest aspects of birding is to enjoy being with birders for whom a species is new, and sharing the thrill and elation with them; - (almost like seeing it yourself again for the first time).
Having said that, if a Pratincole did turn up again in G.M. I should of course prefer it to be one of the other two!
I've yet to catch up with any Pratincole species in Durham, missing the Black-winged Pratincole on July 5th (which was readily available) by being away in Madrid visiting family, but that's all part of the fun of course.
Cheers, Mike
Rather hoping nothing much new turns up till after 11 October! Massive work project on and only brief days off seeing relatives. So it goes...Roll on retirement
Mike Passant said
Thu Jul 17 4:43 PM, 2014
Hi Dave,
For someone who has never met me, you do indeed read me like a book! I certainly would come down; not particularly to get a G. M. hat trick, (though that would be nice ) but to pay due homage to such a great species, and to enjoy sharing the experience with others down there (for most of whom it would likely be a stunning new G M tick). I think that one of the nicest aspects of birding is to enjoy being with birders for whom a species is new, and sharing the thrill and elation with them; - (almost like seeing it yourself again for the first time).
Having said that, if a Pratincole did turn up again in G.M. I should of course prefer it to be one of the other two!
I've yet to catch up with any Pratincole species in Durham, missing the Black-winged Pratincole on July 5th (which was readily available) by being away in Madrid visiting family, but that's all part of the fun of course.
Cheers, Mike
dave broome said
Thu Jul 17 12:42 PM, 2014
Mike Passant wrote:
Eastern England presently has some outstanding wader rarities; - it just needs one of them to have a rush of blood to its little head and turn up at Rumworth, Elton, (or similar) to bring jubilation to all of us waiting patiently; I don't mind which of course, (though knowing my luck, it would perhaps be a Collared Pratincole).
Regards, Mike
If it was a Collared Pratincole at Rumworth or Elton, would that tempt you down for your hat-trick of this species in three different Greater Manchester boroughs? The thought of the Collared Pratincole at Scotman's in the 70's sends me deep in to daydream mode...I don't know whether any photos of it exist
-- Edited by dave broome on Thursday 17th of July 2014 12:43:37 PM
Mike Passant said
Thu Jul 17 9:29 AM, 2014
I hear you Tim;- it rather adds to the fun having 9 of us now all in a bunch with the milestone within reach of the leading 3, (one of whom surely will get there within a few weeks?)
Eastern England presently has some outstanding wader rarities; - it just needs one of them to have a rush of blood to its little head and turn up at Rumworth, Elton, (or similar) to bring jubilation to all of us waiting patiently; I don't mind which of course, (though knowing my luck, it would perhaps be a Collared Pratincole).
Regards, Mike
Tim Wilcox said
Wed Jul 16 10:31 PM, 2014
Mike Passant wrote:
- Just back from one of my regular family visits to Madrid only to find that quite a few people have disappeared suddenly from the G M listings; - I find myself rather missing them, (almost like a bereavement).
I can understand that people enjoy the competitive element of being involved (I myself fall into this category), and that some lists understandably become dormant if people either move away from the area, or indeed pack up birding altogether, but essentially it's a FUN thing, not a "life and death" struggle (in the way that our poor deprived Brazilian friends seem to view football). I'm puzzled then that some listers (who were also regular contributors to various threads), have just sadly "vanished." I myself have no expectation of ever getting to say 220 or more, (I'd need more years than are probably still available!) but mediocre though my ultimate effort might be compared to those in the 240 plus bracket, just for the record, I'd like to keep my listing for so long as there exists a list, and I've had the good fortune to make many new friends amongst you during my visits when pushing along not just my county list, but also lists for G M's 10 constituent boroughs.
For those few of you who suspect I'm a little screwy, taking such an interest in G M birding yet living in Co. Durham, having retired from very serious "World Birding" some 6 years ago, the discovery of such wonderful sites in G M via this website (flashes, reservoirs, lakes, reedbeds, and the moors and mosses) has come as something of a revelation, and this has given my birding a new injection of pleasure and enthusiasm. I have spent 2/3rds of my life in G M, yet never suspected the existence of places like Wigan Flashes and Lightshaw. In short, I guess I still regard Greater Manchester (my birthplace) as my real home, despite having lived in the N E for the last 22 years.
Regards, Mike P.
Dunno about people leaving Mike. All I noticed was Gary Crowder storming the charts on 199 with only a Woodcock to stumble over the line!
Mike Passant said
Thu Jul 10 11:37 AM, 2014
- Just back from one of my regular family visits to Madrid only to find that quite a few people have disappeared suddenly from the G M listings; - I find myself rather missing them, (almost like a bereavement).
I can understand that people enjoy the competitive element of being involved (I myself fall into this category), and that some lists understandably become dormant if people either move away from the area, or indeed pack up birding altogether, but essentially it's a FUN thing, not a "life and death" struggle (in the way that our poor deprived Brazilian friends seem to view football). I'm puzzled then that some listers (who were also regular contributors to various threads), have just sadly "vanished." I myself have no expectation of ever getting to say 220 or more, (I'd need more years than are probably still available!) but mediocre though my ultimate effort might be compared to those in the 240 plus bracket, just for the record, I'd like to keep my listing for so long as there exists a list, and I've had the good fortune to make many new friends amongst you during my visits when pushing along not just my county list, but also lists for G M's 10 constituent boroughs.
For those few of you who suspect I'm a little screwy, taking such an interest in G M birding yet living in Co. Durham, having retired from very serious "World Birding" some 6 years ago, the discovery of such wonderful sites in G M via this website (flashes, reservoirs, lakes, reedbeds, and the moors and mosses) has come as something of a revelation, and this has given my birding a new injection of pleasure and enthusiasm. I have spent 2/3rds of my life in G M, yet never suspected the existence of places like Wigan Flashes and Lightshaw. In short, I guess I still regard Greater Manchester (my birthplace) as my real home, despite having lived in the N E for the last 22 years.
Regards, Mike P.
Simon Johnson said
Fri May 30 10:02 PM, 2014
I know it is really
Hope we have an autumn like last year and it will get a few more of us past that 200 mark!
-- Edited by Simon Johnson on Friday 30th of May 2014 10:03:32 PM
Tim Wilcox said
Fri May 30 9:37 PM, 2014
Simon Johnson wrote:
Sure I've seen a few others add the RC pochard too!
Competitors? Is this a competition now? Better get my finger out!!
Only in a friendly sense. I think we're all keen to share our GM birds Simon...
Paul Wilson said
Fri May 30 9:11 PM, 2014
I've heard the RC Pochards at Wigan may not be allowed - so I wouldn't go rushing off for them Simon.
Simon Johnson said
Fri May 30 9:00 PM, 2014
Sure I've seen a few others add the RC pochard too!
Competitors? Is this a competition now? Better get my finger out!!
Craig Higson said
Fri May 30 8:39 PM, 2014
Is there a emoticon for Doh!?
Tim Wilcox said
Fri May 30 8:34 PM, 2014
Craig Higson wrote:
Simon Johnson wrote:
Fingers crossed it won't take me too long to get into the club, work and not driving is a big hinderance though!
Red-crested pochard, Marsh Harrier and Little Tern all seen this year are birds I need and not had chance to go for them!
Was (is) the Red-crested Pochard countable? I didn't bother because I presumed it would be a Cat D at best if not a full blown escapee.
Suddenly Craig all your competitors are throwing you tips on nailed on birds!
Tim Wilcox said
Fri May 30 8:32 PM, 2014
Craig Higson wrote:
Simon Johnson wrote:
Fingers crossed it won't take me too long to get into the club, work and not driving is a big hinderance though!
Red-crested pochard, Marsh Harrier and Little Tern all seen this year are birds I need and not had chance to go for them!
Was (is) the Red-crested Pochard countable? I didn't bother because I presumed it would be a Cat D at best if not a full blown escapee.
The one I had at Penny didn't seem to create any bother. Cat C isn't it?
Craig Higson said
Fri May 30 8:26 PM, 2014
Simon Johnson wrote:
Fingers crossed it won't take me too long to get into the club, work and not driving is a big hinderance though!
Red-crested pochard, Marsh Harrier and Little Tern all seen this year are birds I need and not had chance to go for them!
Was (is) the Red-crested Pochard countable? I didn't bother because I presumed it would be a Cat D at best if not a full blown escapee.
Simon Johnson said
Fri May 30 8:22 PM, 2014
Fingers crossed it won't take me too long to get into the club, work and not driving is a big hinderance though!
Red-crested pochard, Marsh Harrier and Little Tern all seen this year are birds I need and not had chance to go for them!
Mike Passant said
Fri May 30 5:36 PM, 2014
Barry, Simon and Tim look to be the hot favourites; - perm any one from three, but you wouldn't bet against Simon, (who would be my personal tip).
Geography is very much against me getting over optimistic at this juncture, with three to go still, and Madrid beckoning in a few weeks time, I could easily be "swept aside" in any rush. Despite the riches of recent months we could be in for a quiet spell; (I perhaps wouldn't mind that at this stage).
Enjoy the game though.
Craig Higson said
Fri May 30 5:01 PM, 2014
Paul Wilson wrote:
There are now EIGHT of us knocking on the door of the 200 club. How many of us will make it in 2014? We'll probably need a good celebratory night out down the pub by year end at this rate.
-- Edited by Paul Wilson on Friday 30th of May 2014 03:38:49 PM
All of us hopefully with a superb run of autumn rarities!
Paul Wilson said
Fri May 30 3:36 PM, 2014
There are now EIGHT of us knocking on the door of the 200 club. How many of us will make it in 2014? We'll probably need a good celebratory night out down the pub by year end at this rate.
-- Edited by Paul Wilson on Friday 30th of May 2014 03:38:49 PM
Rick Hall said
Wed May 28 8:59 PM, 2014
Craig, Horwich Moors for Red Grouse, almost guaranteed. You do well not to tread on them sometimes!
Rob Creek said
Wed May 28 5:43 PM, 2014
Had a Red Grouse up at Binn Green the other week whilst I was there for the Two Barred Crossbill. It was on the cliffs opposite the viewing area for the famous Larches, Someone else spotted it though, but point being...that area of GM ie Mossley, and Stalybridge (as David says) certainly seems a favourable area to get a Red Grouse tick!
Craig Higson said
Wed May 28 12:16 AM, 2014
Been up there a few times Alan, including this evening. Heard a couple tonight but still not managed to clap eyes on one of the little monkeys.
Thanks for the tip David. Always good to have options.
Alan Warford said
Tue May 27 11:04 PM, 2014
David Walsh wrote:
Craig Higson wrote:
Just checked my list again, and there's one bird I really should be able to get easily - Red Grouse.
Wander around Wild Bank Moor in Stalybridge on any day of the year and you will hear then see a Red Grouse. Then you can head off and concentrate on the three more tricky ticks!
-- Edited by David Walsh on Sunday 25th of May 2014 11:59:04 PM
-- Edited by David Walsh on Monday 26th of May 2014 05:20:29 AM
-- Edited by David Walsh on Monday 26th of May 2014 05:21:00 AM
Think the Horwich/Winter Hill Moors are much closer for you Craig, may take a bit of trecking round but Red Grouse are certainly up there.
David Walsh said
Sun May 25 11:57 PM, 2014
Craig Higson wrote:
Just checked my list again, and there's one bird I really should be able to get easily - Red Grouse.
Wander around Wild Bank Moor in Stalybridge on any day of the year and you will hear then see a Red Grouse. Then you can head off and concentrate on the three more tricky ticks!
-- Edited by David Walsh on Sunday 25th of May 2014 11:59:04 PM
-- Edited by David Walsh on Monday 26th of May 2014 05:20:29 AM
-- Edited by David Walsh on Monday 26th of May 2014 05:21:00 AM
Craig Higson said
Sun May 25 9:56 PM, 2014
Just checked my list again, and there's one bird I really should be able to get easily - Red Grouse. I also should, with some effort be able to get Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Less easy are Wood Warbler and Firecrest but they're usually in the county each year. Get those and I hit the 200 mark.
Tim Wilcox said
Sun May 25 8:07 PM, 2014
Paul Heaton wrote:
Well well,
Gentlemen and ladies, what a lovely day, the club doffs it caps tonight to Mr Brian Fielding, dedicated patch worker, rewarded for his early jaunts around Elton Res, a free drink at the bar tonight Brian
Mr Passant once again we drag you back into the streets and alleyways of Manchester, sorry to have missed you, but the burdens of work, dragged me away.
Mrs Raynor, I hope you were not to upset with John, you have put up with him for 40 years, so forgive him for his lateness, with your flowers and card, this morning, ( wedding anniversary, and he goes out twitching .. hee hee thats brave )
and we all owe a massive thank you to Ian McKerchar, his quick text messages, they are a godsend, to all of us in Manchester, perhaps not so for those that went to Europe yesterday for holidays, I am sure Hungary has some good birds ,Mr Whippersnapper Warford.
Great day for Gm, Nice bird, enjoyed by all, thats hope it stay for the Bank Holiday.
Take care Keep Birding.
So that's where Mr.Warford is? Thought I didn't see him amongst the teeming masses. Two to go for me to pass through the portals and it would've been one if I hadn't only found out about the Spotted Redshank at noon on Weds. Left work in seconds but got there too late...
Paul Heaton said
Sun May 25 6:41 PM, 2014
Well well,
Gentlemen and ladies, what a lovely day, the club doffs it caps tonight to Mr Brian Fielding, dedicated patch worker, rewarded for his early jaunts around Elton Res, a free drink at the bar tonight Brian
Mr Passant once again we drag you back into the streets and alleyways of Manchester, sorry to have missed you, but the burdens of work, dragged me away.
Mrs Raynor, I hope you were not to upset with John, you have put up with him for 40 years, so forgive him for his lateness, with your flowers and card, this morning, ( wedding anniversary, and he goes out twitching .. hee hee thats brave )
and we all owe a massive thank you to Ian McKerchar, his quick text messages, they are a godsend, to all of us in Manchester, perhaps not so for those that went to Europe yesterday for holidays, I am sure Hungary has some good birds ,Mr Whippersnapper Warford.
Great day for Gm, Nice bird, enjoyed by all, thats hope it stay for the Bank Holiday.
Take care Keep Birding.
Craig Higson said
Sun May 25 6:35 PM, 2014
I'm guessing there's a few if us moved one closer today?
MJKeating said
Thu Jan 2 4:28 PM, 2014
Ian McKerchar wrote:
If you need any help with the excel file though or any aspect of recording, the assistance from wither myself or Steve still stands
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 2nd of January 2014 03:37:59 PM
Thanks Ian!
MJKeating said
Thu Jan 2 4:28 PM, 2014
Hi Geoff, I fully appreciate that the 200 club is purely for fun on the site. I don't expect to get anywhere near that but I just wanted a list from which I could go from, which I have now found. I have a few ID books and an AtoZ so I'm nearly good to go! I'm already slightly addicted and haven't even got to the recording stage yet so I am slightly worried about what will become of me!! haha! I'm forever looking in every direction when I'm out and about, which the missus doesn't appreciate, especially when doing 70mph down the M62!!
For the sake of the birds and to keep track on what our county homes and welcomes, I think all you guys on the site do an amazing job!
Geoff Hargreaves said
Thu Jan 2 3:37 PM, 2014
Matt,please take note of Ian,s points (he is the boss after all).Aside from the essential work of recording our sightings a few of us have submitted a county list which Ian maintains on the main web site,this gave rise to the 200 club.As Ian says it,s fictional and as such has very few rules,but there,s no harm in aiming to see as many species within the county.
You might find the following helpful,a good read through the main web site to discover what,s considered 'wild' 'feral' 'dubious' or downright dodgy
An upto date collins handbook to help with I.D.,you,ll need a good A to Z to sort out any border disputes,a couple of county reports which list all the regular haunts.The GM text alert is also a must have. After that It,s up to you it,s your list but for a life list you will have to see the bird and make sure it,s in GM.Please be aware it,s very addictive and most of us are or have been in therapy during the dark winter months.
good luck Geoff
Ian McKerchar said
Thu Jan 2 3:37 PM, 2014
If you need any help with the excel file though or any aspect of recording, the assistance from wither myself or Steve still stands
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 2nd of January 2014 03:37:59 PM
MJKeating said
Thu Jan 2 3:20 PM, 2014
Thanks for the quick response, Ian!
Following your message, I've successfully gathered all the necessary information. I've downloaded the Excel sheet so I now have no excuses but to get in the car/on the bike and get twitching! May have to pay the Glossy Ibis a visit tomorrow, seeing as though I'm off work!
Thanks again and you've got an amazing website here.
Matt
Ian McKerchar said
Thu Jan 2 2:44 PM, 2014
MJKeating wrote:
Afternoon all and a Happy New Year!
I'm fairly new to birding and a super novice! I just have something inside of me that wants to head out and track down various types of bird. I head to the flashes in Wigan occasionally and also Pennington but I'm wanting to step it up in 2014. I would be grateful if any of you could advise the best way to record a sighting and to prove it's authenticity? Is there a pre-populated list anywhere, are photos required as evidence? As much info as possible would be appreciated as I don't want to start listing them only to find that I hadn't done it correctly!
Thanks everyone!
Matt
Hi Matt, the Greater Manchester Bird Recording Group is the official (and only) recording body in the county and would warmly welcome any of your sightings (note the GM 200 club is a fictional club on this forum ). Please see the thread 'Greater Manchester Needs Your Sightings' on the sightings section for ways and means of submitting your records to us. There is also other information on the Manchester Birding website including a full list of species seen in the county and what records we require, though in all honesty any and all your records would be welcomed.
If you need any further information at all, or just some clarification, then please don't hesitate to contact myself or Steve Atkins, either by private message on this forum or via email, the contact details of which can be found on the 'Who's Who' page of the Manchester Birding website
MJKeating said
Thu Jan 2 2:25 PM, 2014
Afternoon all and a Happy New Year!
I'm fairly new to birding and a super novice! I just have something inside of me that wants to head out and track down various types of bird. I head to the flashes in Wigan occasionally and also Pennington but I'm wanting to step it up in 2014. I would be grateful if any of you could advise the best way to record a sighting and to prove it's authenticity? Is there a pre-populated list anywhere, are photos required as evidence? As much info as possible would be appreciated as I don't want to start listing them only to find that I hadn't done it correctly!
Thanks everyone!
Matt
Paul Heaton said
Tue Dec 17 7:06 PM, 2013
Mike Passant, The 200 Club, will have a gold card for you when you reach the target required for membership, a huge effort is required for out of town folk, to reach 200.
Your efforts and achievements will be reflected in award ceremony.
Have a cool yuletide, and a bird filled 2014, where ever you bird.
Mike Passant said
Fri Dec 13 6:37 PM, 2013
Though perhaps a little premature yet to look back over 2013, (as I have potentially one more day remaining for some birding within Greater Manchester prior to year end), the year does rather seem to be sliding towards an unspectacular close after the excitements of the autumn. I managed a fairly typical 20 days (or part days) birding somewhere in G M during the year, often just passing through, though several times making successful twitches (as well as several dips) and once (by remarkable fluke) being present coincidentally with three of the Glossy Ibises in Bolton having missed them by some 20 minutes the previous day (when I had turned up anyway totally unaware of their presence). This stroke of luck meant that I had no grounds for complaint at all and the 8 species added during the course of the year to get my G M list onto 191 included a few harder "less than annual" species. On a more sobering note, there were at various times during the year a total of a further15 species overflying or recorded all too briefly in the county which would have been new (such as Shags, Gannet, Bewicks's Swans, Barnacle Geese, Hen Harrier, Grey Plover, Turtle Dove, Great Grey Shrike, to name but a few, none of which I could have seen due to the travelling time/distance). I should also have made an effort for the Little Stint at Rumworth which with hindsight was a gift which went begging, as well as the overnight Rock Pipit and Kittiwake at Pennington for which regretfully I made no effort. So I already look forward to 2014 with the intriguing question - Will it be the year in which I reach 200? - I see it as a very tall order; - In fact I felt rather more positive in October with still a couple of months of 2013 remaining, - better now to keep head down and be prepared to keep chipping away and keeping an eye on the sightings threads at critical times;- provided I'm here as well in a position to travel!
Best Wishes to all for a Happy Christmas and a prosperous and exciting 2014!
Paul Heaton said
Fri Nov 1 3:05 AM, 2013
Well done Mr Raynor, that's what we like to hear from our members, I find myself in a similar situation, I know of two species that should be on my list, but also know that the notebooks are lost forever, therefore having to wait for the next time the birds turn up .
While we are on this thread, we have received a letter of complaint at the clubhouse from a lady, who seems upset that a recent post began Gentlemen? well what can I say.
I did explain that the post referred to certain birders trying to gain membership, and did not exclude our more than capable female birders.
That said, come on ladies, we do need a few more of you to push the notebooks out and join the 200 Club.
Stay happy on these dark nights. and keep Birding
John Rayner said
Fri Nov 1 2:16 AM, 2013
Mike Passant wrote:
So, dear Mr. Rayner, get yourself out into the field, suitably disguised if you prefer, to save possible embarrassment, and make doubly sure of Greylag Goose
Well, Mr Passant, How quickly you forget.
As you have attempted to name and shame let me remind you that you were actually with me on 5th May 2009 at Pennington Flash when my omission was corrected. All 200 club members will be gratified to learn that I hold my GM list sacrosanct and nothing is counted unless it can be verified by a notebook record.
Regards, John
Ian McKerchar said
Thu Oct 31 11:01 PM, 2013
Indeed! If anyone has Grey Lag Goose then please remove it immediately until you have seen a Greylag Goose...
Mike Passant said
Thu Oct 31 3:42 PM, 2013
I couldn't agree more Mr. Heaton! List integrity needs to be of paramount concern.
So, dear Mr. Rayner, get yourself out into the field, suitably disguised if you prefer, to save possible embarrassment, and make doubly sure of Greylag Goose; - a proper one mind you, (not that tainted stuff at Etherow).
Ank, ank!!!!!
-- Edited by Mike Passant on Thursday 31st of October 2013 04:26:09 PM
Paul Heaton said
Wed Oct 30 4:21 AM, 2013
Gentlemen, may I just make a slight observation here, The 200 Club does like to maintain its standards, therefore any birder wishes to become a member, should hold his or her list in high esteem.
So if in hindsight you have missed something easy off your list, I think it would be prudent to go back into the field and see the bird again, just to cement it on your list, lets maintain high standards Gentlemen please .
I must say I am very pleased in a new interest in the club, and the enthusiasm that potential new members are showing.
keep your notebooks clean and carry on birding.
Mark Rigby said
Wed Oct 30 1:55 AM, 2013
Mike Passant wrote:
I seem to recall somebody leaving off Grey Lag Goose a couple of years ago... - forget who it was now though.
I haven't Mike
Mike Passant said
Tue Oct 29 4:00 PM, 2013
That's OK Tim, I seem to recall somebody leaving off Grey Lag Goose a couple of years ago... - forget who it was now though.
I'm going through my Greater Manchester list even as I write this, checking it against the full BOU list for the very same reason; - (I'm just into the chats presently, scratching my head over Sib Blue Robin.......? )
...dream on.
Craig Higson said
Tue Oct 29 2:59 PM, 2013
Tim Wilcox wrote:
Craig Higson wrote:
Added another tick today....so close now I can taste it!
What was that Craig? I added a late tick earlier this year by discovering I'd left off Cormorant
It was Crossbill Tim. Managed to get them, at Walker Fold last Saturday. One of those birds that I just seemed to have missed over the years.
Our house is upside down at the moment due to building works, and I can't get to my pc, but as soon as I do I'll be double checking my list because I'm convinced I have some other easily gettable omissions.
-- Edited by Craig Higson on Tuesday 29th of October 2013 03:00:26 PM
-- Edited by Craig Higson on Tuesday 29th of October 2013 03:00:40 PM
Tim Wilcox said
Tue Oct 29 7:12 AM, 2013
Craig Higson wrote:
Added another tick today....so close now I can taste it!
What was that Craig? I added a late tick earlier this year by discovering I'd left off Cormorant
Craig Higson said
Sun Oct 27 1:42 AM, 2013
Added another tick today....so close now I can taste it!
Craig Higson said
Sat Oct 26 6:29 AM, 2013
Tim Wilcox wrote:
Paul Wilson wrote:
Craig Higson wrote:
Probably not for long Tim. Every time I manage to string two or three decent days birding together something crops up that sees me sidelined for months. I think the two GM ticks in the last two weeks must be the first time that's happened since I started birding!
I don't get sidelined - I've just been lazy! I was adding a new tick about once every 6 months, and then seemed to get stuck on 180 for ages. The last six months, however, has seen me add SIX new ticks!
If only I hadn't been so lazy - Long-tailed Duck, Gannet, RT Diver, Cetti's, Smew, RC Pochard, Quail, W-W Black Tern, Ruff, Iceland Gull, Y-L Gull, LS Woodpecker and Pied Flycatcher (all being easily twitchable during the last two or three years) would have almost got me into the club!
Hmm! Quail? Easily twitchable? I've spent days over the years listening to them taunt me with not a glimpse. This year there's been no sound I know of never mind a sighting. Anyway off next week and battering vile weather should maybe blow in another Leach's Storm Petrel having missed last year's at Penny
As long as its not on Monday or Tuesday!!!!
Tim Wilcox said
Sat Oct 26 3:06 AM, 2013
Paul Wilson wrote:
Craig Higson wrote:
Probably not for long Tim. Every time I manage to string two or three decent days birding together something crops up that sees me sidelined for months. I think the two GM ticks in the last two weeks must be the first time that's happened since I started birding!
I don't get sidelined - I've just been lazy! I was adding a new tick about once every 6 months, and then seemed to get stuck on 180 for ages. The last six months, however, has seen me add SIX new ticks!
If only I hadn't been so lazy - Long-tailed Duck, Gannet, RT Diver, Cetti's, Smew, RC Pochard, Quail, W-W Black Tern, Ruff, Iceland Gull, Y-L Gull, LS Woodpecker and Pied Flycatcher (all being easily twitchable during the last two or three years) would have almost got me into the club!
Hmm! Quail? Easily twitchable? I've spent days over the years listening to them taunt me with not a glimpse. This year there's been no sound I know of never mind a sighting. Anyway off next week and battering vile weather should maybe blow in another Leach's Storm Petrel having missed last year's at Penny
-Well done Simon Johnson, upon entering the club in style!
You were my top tip to reach the mark in my post on this thread of May 30th;- I should have put a tenner on you!
Regards,
Mike P.
It is so good to have you as our newest member, and the drinks will be on Simon Warford....
Hope the forthcoming weather blows a few goodies into the county.
Well done.
Rather hoping nothing much new turns up till after 11 October! Massive work project on and only brief days off seeing relatives. So it goes...Roll on retirement
Hi Dave,
For someone who has never met me, you do indeed read me like a book!
I certainly would come down; not particularly to get a G. M. hat trick, (though that would be nice ) but to pay due homage to such a great species, and to enjoy sharing the experience with others down there (for most of whom it would likely be a stunning new G M tick).
I think that one of the nicest aspects of birding is to enjoy being with birders for whom a species is new, and sharing the thrill and elation with them; - (almost like seeing it yourself again for the first time).
Having said that, if a Pratincole did turn up again in G.M. I should of course prefer it to be one of the other two!
I've yet to catch up with any Pratincole species in Durham, missing the Black-winged Pratincole on July 5th (which was readily available) by being away in Madrid visiting family, but that's all part of the fun of course.
Cheers,
Mike
If it was a Collared Pratincole at Rumworth or Elton, would that tempt you down for your hat-trick of this species in three different Greater Manchester boroughs? The thought of the Collared Pratincole at Scotman's in the 70's sends me deep in to daydream mode...I don't know whether any photos of it exist
-- Edited by dave broome on Thursday 17th of July 2014 12:43:37 PM
I hear you Tim;- it rather adds to the fun having 9 of us now all in a bunch with the milestone within reach of the leading 3, (one of whom surely will get there within a few weeks?)
Eastern England presently has some outstanding wader rarities; - it just needs one of them to have a rush of blood to its little head and turn up at Rumworth, Elton, (or similar) to bring jubilation to all of us waiting patiently; I don't mind which of course, (though knowing my luck, it would perhaps be a Collared Pratincole).
Regards,
Mike
Dunno about people leaving Mike. All I noticed was Gary Crowder storming the charts on 199 with only a Woodcock to stumble over the line!
- Just back from one of my regular family visits to Madrid only to find that quite a few people have disappeared suddenly from the G M listings; - I find myself rather missing them, (almost like a bereavement).
I can understand that people enjoy the competitive element of being involved (I myself fall into this category), and that some lists understandably become dormant if people either move away from the area, or indeed pack up birding altogether, but essentially it's a FUN thing, not a "life and death" struggle (in the way that our poor deprived Brazilian friends seem to view football).
I'm puzzled then that some listers (who were also regular contributors to various threads), have just sadly "vanished."
I myself have no expectation of ever getting to say 220 or more, (I'd need more years than are probably still available!) but mediocre though my ultimate effort might be compared to those in the 240 plus bracket, just for the record, I'd like to keep my listing for so long as there exists a list, and I've had the good fortune to make many new friends amongst you during my visits when pushing along not just my county list, but also lists for G M's 10 constituent boroughs.
For those few of you who suspect I'm a little screwy, taking such an interest in G M birding yet living in Co. Durham, having retired from very serious "World Birding" some 6 years ago, the discovery of such wonderful sites in G M via this website (flashes, reservoirs, lakes, reedbeds, and the moors and mosses) has come as something of a revelation, and this has given my birding a new injection of pleasure and enthusiasm. I have spent 2/3rds of my life in G M, yet never suspected the existence of places like Wigan Flashes and Lightshaw.
In short, I guess I still regard Greater Manchester (my birthplace) as my real home, despite having lived in the N E for the last 22 years.
Regards,
Mike P.
Hope we have an autumn like last year and it will get a few more of us past that 200 mark!
-- Edited by Simon Johnson on Friday 30th of May 2014 10:03:32 PM
Only in a friendly sense. I think we're all keen to share our GM birds Simon...
Competitors? Is this a competition now? Better get my finger out!!
Suddenly Craig all your competitors are throwing you tips on nailed on birds!
The one I had at Penny didn't seem to create any bother. Cat C isn't it?
Was (is) the Red-crested Pochard countable? I didn't bother because I presumed it would be a Cat D at best if not a full blown escapee.
Red-crested pochard, Marsh Harrier and Little Tern all seen this year are birds I need and not had chance to go for them!
Barry, Simon and Tim look to be the hot favourites; - perm any one from three, but you wouldn't bet against Simon, (who would be my personal tip).
Geography is very much against me getting over optimistic at this juncture, with three to go still, and Madrid beckoning in a few weeks time, I could easily be "swept aside" in any rush. Despite the riches of recent months we could be in for a quiet spell; (I perhaps wouldn't mind that at this stage).
Enjoy the game though.
All of us hopefully with a superb run of autumn rarities!
Easier ones I'm still missing are:
Ring-necked Parakeet, Pied Flycatcher, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Yellow-legged Gull, Sandwich Tern, Hen Harrier.
-- Edited by Paul Wilson on Friday 30th of May 2014 03:38:49 PM
Thanks for the tip David. Always good to have options.
Think the Horwich/Winter Hill Moors are much closer for you Craig, may take a bit of trecking round but Red Grouse are certainly up there.
-- Edited by David Walsh on Monday 26th of May 2014 05:21:00 AM
So that's where Mr.Warford is? Thought I didn't see him amongst the teeming masses. Two to go for me to pass through the portals and it would've been one if I hadn't only found out about the Spotted Redshank at noon on Weds. Left work in seconds but got there too late...
Gentlemen and ladies, what a lovely day, the club doffs it caps tonight to Mr Brian Fielding, dedicated patch worker, rewarded for his early jaunts around Elton Res, a free drink at the bar tonight Brian
Mr Passant once again we drag you back into the streets and alleyways of Manchester, sorry to have missed you, but the burdens of work, dragged me away.
Mrs Raynor, I hope you were not to upset with John, you have put up with him for 40 years, so forgive him for his lateness, with your flowers and card, this morning, ( wedding anniversary, and he goes out twitching .. hee hee thats brave )
and we all owe a massive thank you to Ian McKerchar, his quick text messages, they are a godsend, to all of us in Manchester, perhaps not so for those that went to Europe yesterday for holidays, I am sure Hungary has some good birds ,Mr Whippersnapper Warford.
Great day for Gm, Nice bird, enjoyed by all, thats hope it stay for the Bank Holiday.
Take care Keep Birding.
Thanks Ian!
For the sake of the birds and to keep track on what our county homes and welcomes, I think all you guys on the site do an amazing job!
Matt,please take note of Ian,s points (he is the boss after all).Aside from the essential work of recording our sightings a few of us have submitted a county list which Ian maintains on the main web site,this gave rise to the 200 club.As Ian says it,s fictional and as such has very few rules,but there,s no harm in aiming to see as many species within the county.
You might find the following helpful,a good read through the main web site to discover what,s considered 'wild' 'feral' 'dubious' or downright dodgy
An upto date collins handbook to help with I.D.,you,ll need a good A to Z to sort out any border disputes,a couple of county reports which list all the regular haunts.The GM text alert is also a must have. After that It,s up to you it,s your list but for a life list you will have to see the bird and make sure it,s in GM.Please be aware it,s very addictive and most of us are or have been in therapy during the dark winter months.
good luck Geoff
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 2nd of January 2014 03:37:59 PM
Following your message, I've successfully gathered all the necessary information. I've downloaded the Excel sheet so I now have no excuses but to get in the car/on the bike and get twitching! May have to pay the Glossy Ibis a visit tomorrow, seeing as though I'm off work!
Thanks again and you've got an amazing website here.
Matt
Hi Matt, the Greater Manchester Bird Recording Group is the official (and only) recording body in the county and would warmly welcome any of your sightings (note the GM 200 club is a fictional club on this forum
If you need any further information at all, or just some clarification, then please don't hesitate to contact myself or Steve Atkins, either by private message on this forum or via email, the contact details of which can be found on the 'Who's Who' page of the Manchester Birding website
I'm fairly new to birding and a super novice! I just have something inside of me that wants to head out and track down various types of bird. I head to the flashes in Wigan occasionally and also Pennington but I'm wanting to step it up in 2014. I would be grateful if any of you could advise the best way to record a sighting and to prove it's authenticity? Is there a pre-populated list anywhere, are photos required as evidence? As much info as possible would be appreciated as I don't want to start listing them only to find that I hadn't done it correctly!
Thanks everyone!
Matt
Your efforts and achievements will be reflected in award ceremony.
Have a cool yuletide, and a bird filled 2014, where ever you bird.
Though perhaps a little premature yet to look back over 2013, (as I have potentially one more day remaining for some birding within Greater Manchester prior to year end), the year does rather seem to be sliding towards an unspectacular close after the excitements of the autumn.
I managed a fairly typical 20 days (or part days) birding somewhere in G M during the year, often just passing through, though several times making successful twitches (as well as several dips) and once (by remarkable fluke) being present coincidentally with three of the Glossy Ibises in Bolton having missed them by some 20 minutes the previous day (when I had turned up anyway totally unaware of their presence).
This stroke of luck meant that I had no grounds for complaint at all and the 8 species added during the course of the year to get my G M list onto 191 included a few harder "less than annual" species. On a more sobering note, there were at various times during the year a total of a further15 species overflying or recorded all too briefly in the county which would have been new (such as Shags, Gannet, Bewicks's Swans, Barnacle Geese, Hen Harrier, Grey Plover, Turtle Dove, Great Grey Shrike, to name but a few, none of which I could have seen due to the travelling time/distance). I should also have made an effort for the Little Stint at Rumworth which with hindsight was a gift which went begging, as well as the overnight Rock Pipit and Kittiwake at Pennington for which regretfully I made no effort.
So I already look forward to 2014 with the intriguing question - Will it be the year in which I reach 200? - I see it as a very tall order; - In fact I felt rather more positive in October with still a couple of months of 2013 remaining, - better now to keep head down and be prepared to keep chipping away and keeping an eye on the sightings threads at critical times;- provided I'm here as well in a position to travel!
Best Wishes to all for a Happy Christmas and a prosperous and exciting 2014!
While we are on this thread, we have received a letter of complaint at the clubhouse from a lady, who seems upset that a recent post began Gentlemen? well what can I say.
I did explain that the post referred to certain birders trying to gain membership, and did not exclude our more than capable female birders.
That said, come on ladies, we do need a few more of you to push the notebooks out and join the 200 Club.
Stay happy on these dark nights. and keep Birding
Well, Mr Passant, How quickly you forget.
As you have attempted to name and shame let me remind you that you were actually with me on 5th May 2009 at Pennington Flash when my omission was corrected. All 200 club members will be gratified to learn that I hold my GM list sacrosanct and nothing is counted unless it can be verified by a notebook record.
Regards, John
So, dear Mr. Rayner, get yourself out into the field, suitably disguised if you prefer, to save possible embarrassment, and make doubly sure of Greylag Goose; - a proper one mind you, (not that tainted stuff at Etherow).
Ank, ank!!!!!
-- Edited by Mike Passant on Thursday 31st of October 2013 04:26:09 PM
So if in hindsight you have missed something easy off your list, I think it would be prudent to go back into the field and see the bird again, just to cement it on your list, lets maintain high standards Gentlemen please .
I must say I am very pleased in a new interest in the club, and the enthusiasm that potential new members are showing.
keep your notebooks clean and carry on birding.
I haven't Mike
That's OK Tim, I seem to recall somebody leaving off Grey Lag Goose a couple of years ago... - forget who it was now though.
I'm going through my Greater Manchester list even as I write this, checking it against the full BOU list for the very same reason; - (I'm just into the chats presently, scratching my head over Sib Blue Robin.......? )
...dream on.
It was Crossbill Tim. Managed to get them, at Walker Fold last Saturday. One of those birds that I just seemed to have missed over the years.
Our house is upside down at the moment due to building works, and I can't get to my pc, but as soon as I do I'll be double checking my list because I'm convinced I have some other easily gettable omissions.
-- Edited by Craig Higson on Tuesday 29th of October 2013 03:00:26 PM
-- Edited by Craig Higson on Tuesday 29th of October 2013 03:00:40 PM
What was that Craig? I added a late tick earlier this year by discovering I'd left off Cormorant
As long as its not on Monday or Tuesday!!!!
Hmm! Quail? Easily twitchable? I've spent days over the years listening to them taunt me with not a glimpse. This year there's been no sound I know of never mind a sighting. Anyway off next week and battering vile weather should maybe blow in another Leach's Storm Petrel having missed last year's at Penny