A venture back into God's County, arriving at Fairhaven Lake at 10am, carrying on to Starr Gate for a bit of sea watching, ditto Rossall observation tower, then over to Knott End and finally a two mile walk at Cocker's Dyke. The weather was mixed to say the least with sleet & rain, bright spells and a bitter, very strong wind. Amongst others :-
Walked along the sea wall almost down to Fluke Hall, then back past Pilling Lane Ends and about a mile northwards towards Cockerham.
1f Merlin, 1f Sparrowhawk and 1 Kestrel were over the saltmarsh. 32 Whooper Swans were on nearby stubble.
5 Skylarks and 12 Meadow Pipits were along the sea wall.
Large numbers of Starlings, 12+ Little Egrets, a few Redshanks and Shelducks were on the marsh.
Curlews popped out from virtually every little tidal gulley. At high water a flock of 14 Curlews settled on nearby pasture with 50+ Lapwings.
Small groups of Pink Footed Geese flew off the shore line as the tide advanced, and moved to nearby farmland.
A Great Spotted Woodpecker flew over the dyke and settled on the saltmarsh amongst the sheep, some of whom had a Starling riding on their back.
I searched the woodland near the car park for small birds, as a Yellow Browed Warbler had been reported at nearby Fluke Hall yesterday, but alas I only found a couple of Wrens.
A covey of 16 Grey Partridges flushed off the sea wall at one point, whilst 6 Red Legged Partridges were near the car park, but there is a large game estate close by,
and judging by the sheer numbers of Mallards in that area, these are all likely to be released birds.
Craig Higson said
Fri Sep 25 5:35 PM, 2015
Spent the morning at Pilling viewing the marsh from the car park on Backsands Lane. Tide wasn't that high so didn't expect a lot. Although it was bright it was really quite cold in the wind. It was also very quiet. There was a good number of waders way out, but the haze and distance made most of them unidentifiable. However there were 10 Pink-footed Geese plus another 22 over. 580 Shelduck and over 1000 Teal. Bit disappointing really even though I wasn't expecting that much.
John Watson said
Tue Sep 15 8:31 AM, 2015
Sounds good for Curlew Sand to me, Rob
Rob Creek said
Mon Sep 14 6:41 PM, 2015
Sunday 13th Sept.
Visit to Cocker's Dyke near Knott End with Simon Gough. Not been here since January when I came to see the 'late' juv Pomarine Skua, and yesterday proved to be a good visit too.
High Tide 12.20pm produced... - Oystercatcher - up in the 100's - Lapwing - plenty about - Golden Plover 1 in moult - Grey Plover 1 possibly a juv with Lapwing, then another single combing the shore line, then a flock if 43 dropped in onto the flats a bit further out as the tide was going out, 1 in summer plumage others in various stages. - Knot - group of 6, 1 having a slightly blush red breast, and also 1 out with the Grey Plovers - Curlew - group of 9 flying around and feeding - Redshank - lots of them - Little Egret 1 over, woman dog walker reported she saw a lot last week - Great Black-backed Gull - 15+ - Common Gull - probably around 10 - Black-headed Gull - plenty around - Common Eider - 2 females - Teal - 3 in grass clumps near coast path - Greylag Geese - 2 skeins over (a passer-by thought they could've been Pink-footed's but these were large and bulky) - Kestrel 3 in view same time - Swallow - plenty around over Horse Paddocks - Wheatear - 2 very active around the rocks just below the path - Pied Wagtail 1 over and landed in Horse paddocks - Cormorants - few out to sea
...and 1 other bird which in my mind was a Curlew Sandpiper, and a juvenile at that, with the Burton bird being fairly fresh in the mind still. I picked up on the bird feeding around the Oystercatchers and the Knot. Straight away I thought be careful, Juvenile Dunlin??? But it looked to have a slightly larger build and longer legs, what I think was a longer and more curved bill too, and a peachy shade wash around the foreneck and breast, and cleanish white underbelly. I was watching it and managed to put Simon on to it, but within seconds it was flushed with all the other Waders by a large juvenile Gull and I can honestly say I didn't get a view of the clean white rump to clinch it as it was easily lost in the commotion so as far as I'm concerned the attributes I saw pointed towards Curlew Sandpiper but not 100% conclusive I'm afraid.
Cracking little place this and a very interesting visit.
Rob Creek said
Mon Sep 14 2:44 PM, 2015
Sunday 13th Sept En-route to Cocker's Dyke up near Knott End, myself and Simon Gough stopped off for a quick scan of the fields near Singleton and Poulton just north of Marton Mere.
Within a few minutes, sightings were... 1 Common Buzzard 1 Kestrel 1 Wheatear Rooks Carrion Crows Jackdaws Black-headed Gulls Herring Gulls Lesser Black-backed Gulls 1 Grey Heron Lots of Woodpigeon
Ian Boote said
Sun Mar 1 12:58 PM, 2015
Feeding station in Pilling- Although both reported to be fairly busy only one appeared to have been restocked with seed but which allowed 30 Hedge Sparrow, 3 Yellowhammer, 3 Corn Bunting, 2 Meadow Pipit and 5 Reed Bunting to be seen
Keith Williams said
Mon Feb 23 8:47 AM, 2015
Finally go the Shore Lark yesterday at wet and wild Rossall at the second time of asking, and almost missed it again as it appeared on the golf course as I was about to leave, and after photograhing it, it then proceeded to land 20 feet from the car near the picnic tables some what bedraggled but stunning!
Also, 2 pair of Red-Breasted Merganser, one on marine lake and what at sea. Stonechat near the observation tower. Sanderling Ringed Plover Turnstone Linnet Wren Oystercatcher Black-headed Gulls Juvenile very large gull, awaiting confirmation, looked like Great Black-Backed Gull!
-- Edited by Keith Williams on Monday 23rd of February 2015 08:50:14 AM
Jon Bowen said
Sat Feb 21 7:25 PM, 2015
8.00am on the sea wall at Lands End - Freezing!!!! Tide a long way out. Merlin on the marshes Dunlin Black tailed Godwit Lapwing Curlew Little Egret Redshank Raven And most unusually Carrion Crow taking a Dunlin
PHIL GREENWOOD said
Fri Feb 20 7:24 PM, 2015
Red-throated Diver showing very well at Fairhaven Lake. Also Oystercatchers, Curlew and a Reed Bunting.
Finally caught up with the Shorelark at Rossall Point, feeding around the picnic benches but regularly disturbed by dogs and their b****y owners. Also Turnstones, Redshanks, Linnets, 2 Skylarks and a male Eider on the high tide.
Doc Brewster said
Sat Feb 14 5:57 PM, 2015
Doc Brewster wrote:
Photographically the Pom Skua showed fantastically well, and it ate well too. But as you say all was not well. One of its wings was held quite loosely, hanging down in an unnatural position, many of my photos show this very clearly. However as you say it could fly, previous to me arriving it had flown in from the tideline to the corpse. I
News today that the worst case scenario happened & the bird was found dead, I am not surprised given that wing problem, I suppose it was just a matter of time. So sad that a bird that gave so many so much pleasure & their best ever views of Pomarine Skua should end up dead
Ian Boote said
Sun Feb 1 12:35 AM, 2015
Could not see the skua today but compensation was found with a flock of 30 Twite in a fields another fairly close on the Dyke foot path.
Ian McKerchar said
Mon Jan 26 2:13 PM, 2015
Pomarine Skua still present at Cockers Dyke at midday today; out of sight in a gully (feeding on a carcass) for a good while but showed well afterwards.
Info thanks to Brian Fogg
Jon Bowen said
Sun Jan 25 4:21 PM, 2015
Morning trip up to the Fylde today primarily to look for the Pomarine Skua at Cocker's Dyke.
Arrived around 9.30 and despite the tide being out there were good numbers of waders in easy scoping distance including: Bar-tailed Godwit Golden Plover Knot Dunlin Shelduck Oystercatcher Lapwing Redshank Pink-Footed Geese and Whooper Swans over also 30 plus Twite on the shoreline Mistle Thrush Fieldfare and Redwing over.
The Pomarine Skua was on the land side in a field near a Pink-footed Goose corpse (3 fields up from the Pump House). a few locals mentioned it had flown quite strongly yesterday but it's wing didn't look great - although it looked fine in itself otherwise.
Then decided to try for the Tundra Bean Goose reported yesterday off Mythorp Rd nr Marton Mere.
Having located the Pink-Foot flock it was a case of scoping through and a false alarm created by a orange legged Pink Foot the Tundra Bean Goose ended up showing really well at the front of the flock.
So a good few hours out and about with some great birds..
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Jan 24 6:49 PM, 2015
Back to the Fylde today, primarily to try and get a few decent shots of the Shorelark at Rossall and then to see the injured, juvenile Pomarine Skua at Cocker's Dyke. The Shorelark was very obliging, on the grass at the picnic area and later, the Skua was finally found feeding on a goose carcass just east of the Dyke.
Started the day at Fairhaven, moved up to Starr Gate for a bit of seawatching, ditto Rossall observation tower, then on to Cocker's Dyke. Weather cold and blustery.
Amongst others :-
Common Scoter (c.25) Eider (c.12) Red breasted Merganser (1) Little Egret (2) Pink footed Goose (135) Turnstone Grey Plover (c.12) Golden Plover (c.35) Knot Dunlin Twite (c.40) Linnet (c.30) Shorelark (1) Pomarine Skua (1)
Doc Brewster said
Thu Jan 22 10:13 AM, 2015
Keith Williams wrote:
Yesterday (Wed) -
After getting my new bins from Doc Brewster (Focal Point), cheers Doc, excellent service, I headed up the M6.
Great Grey Shrike exactly where Richard Thew described it.
Parked at the entrance to the Animal Sanctuary crossed the road diagonal to the public footpath and the shrike was 100yds down on the left perched at the top of a tree overlooking the brambles at the back of the roofing place.
Other than that Kestrel (f) and 2 Great Tits.
Then headed for the Shore Lark (Rossal point thread)
Good to meet you, Keith, great way to christen the bins & to grip me off with a yeartick that I missed on Sunday
Keith Williams said
Thu Jan 22 10:08 AM, 2015
Yesterday (Wed) -
After getting my new bins from Doc Brewster (Focal Point), cheers Doc, excellent service, I headed up the M6.
Great Grey Shrike exactly where Richard Thew described it.
Parked at the entrance to the Animal Sanctuary crossed the road diagonal to the public footpath and the shrike was 100yds down on the left perched at the top of a tree overlooking the brambles at the back of the roofing place.
Other than that Kestrel (f) and 2 Great Tits.
Then headed for the Shore Lark (Rossal point thread)
Ian McKerchar said
Wed Jan 21 9:55 PM, 2015
Originally posted today by Dave Ousey:
Nearly a full squad of A Teamers for a trip to the seaside, with the promise of some different birds and a couple from last year, who seemed to be wintering. We left a snowy Norden around 7-30am after a few local difficulties, well put Chris, who took the wheel. We got through the various belts of icy fog and as we reached the coast it was cold but the sun was shining at times. Calling firstly at Knott End slipway for a nice Twite. Our second call was to see the first winter dark morph Pomarine Skua that had been blown into Cockers Dyke in the recent gales. The bird appeared to have an injured wing and was being supplied with some carrion / food by the local birders. We searched the bird filled coast and salt marsh and could not pick up the Pomarine Skua. I didnt have my telescope with me, having hoped for some pictures of the close feeding skua, so, as I scanned the area with my binoculars, I kept being drawn to a strange shape in the distance, a clod of salt marsh surely? A birder said, I have the skua, yes it was the clod, tip:-always take your scope with you! The bird eventually got to its feet to repel the attentions of 2 Carrion Crows, who looked like undertakers weighing up their next victim! The hoped for close up of this bird did not materialise, but 2 Mediterranean Gulls were seen. Lots of godwits,Curlews and a large skein of Pink Footed Geese flew over the bay, very nice. A trip along the coast towards Thurnham to see the Whooper & Bewick`s Swans was enjoyed, helped by one of the Flyde bird clubs members,many thanks. Golden & Grey Plovers feeding in roadside fields in large number were also noted. At Bradshaw Lane End & Eagland Hill the small feeding stations are usually filled with small finches, but only Tree Sparrows were seen and no evidence of any food for the birds. The Shore Lark was enjoyed at Rossall Point though it was still quite cold on this part of the coast, smart little bird this one. At Marton Mere the hoped for Iceland Gull, Firecrest, Long Eared Owl or Cetti`s Warbler were not located, a couple of Shoveller and a smart female Sparrowhawk were our reward. The trend continued as the regular Great Grey Shrike on Lytham Moss had not been seen for 2 hours prior to our arrival and was not located. A dash up to Parsonage Reservoir near Rishton to see a wintering Great Northern Diver was to be our last stop on a wintry birding day. Around 20 new species were enjoyed by all our team and a little more knowledge gained about Pomarine Skua`s that are on the ground!
Dave O.
Richard Thew said
Tue Jan 20 11:10 AM, 2015
Great grey shrike seen very well and for a while. He sat on a shrup for 5 mins, then he tried to catch a blackbird and almost succeeded! Then he sat for another 5 mins in full view. This is on the ground outside the NorthWest roofing supplies building. Take the puplic footpath opposite the animal sanctuary from the b5261 and that's where he is staying. 3 sparrowhawks were akso seen, 2 kestrels and 1 fieldfare. Many thanks for all help provided on this forum.
Richard Thew said
Mon Jan 19 10:12 PM, 2015
Fantastic thanks. Watch this space!
Ian McKerchar said
Mon Jan 19 8:34 PM, 2015
Great Grey Shrike at Lytham was seen today; info below from the bird information services:
Great Grey Shrike NE of St. Anne's at Lytham Moss west of the B5261 by the industrial estate near the entrance to Easterleigh Animal Sanctuary at 14:30. From the B5261 take Wildings Lane north, park and walk north.
Richard Thew said
Mon Jan 19 3:18 PM, 2015
Ian McKerchar wrote:Originally The Great Grey Shrike was originally found about a kilometre away form the area that it now favours. Yesterday all areas of the moss, including its original haunt, were searched and birders spent more than 4 hours there at least without a sighting. No news on the pager today either, sorryÂ
:'( Many thanks for the feedback, much appreciated. Shame not been seen.
Doc Brewster said
Mon Jan 19 2:39 PM, 2015
Rob Creek wrote:
Left Marton Mere and took a chance on the Pomarine Skua at Cockers Dyke not far from Knott-End.
Thanks to a recently acquired friend Paul Slade from Fylde Sightings with his help on this one.
1 juv Pomarine Skua (a Lifer for me)
I found the bird on the boggy vegetation on the sea front in bitterly cold conditions. It was hobbling over the little grassy hills towards a large Gull carcass and in the process towards myself and one other birder. I was told earlier by a Marton birder that the Skua didn't look well and it was soon apparent to me also that something didn't look right. It made its way over to approx within 25yds struggling over the uneven ground, we could see a strange looking 'injury type' shape or swelling on its left wing, I asked the other birder if he'd seen it fly as surely it would've just landed at the Gull. He hadn't seen it fly and was in agreement that something wasn't right.
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Sunday 18th of January 2015 09:14:31 PM
Sorry to have missed you again Rob, as I was there too, but in the morning at the Pom Skua. A bit warmer than you experienced, I think the wind got keener as the day went on. Photographically the bird showed fantastically well, and it ate well too. But as you say all was not well. One of its wings was held quite loosely, hanging down in an unnatural position, many of my photos show this very clearly. However as you say it could fly, previous to me arriving it had flown in from the tideline to the corpse. I never saw it move at all, not even walking, it just stayed by the dead gull and kept eating. It is there again today so keeps on surviving, everything crossed for it now. As well as some of the species Rob mentions there was a small herd of Whooper Swans out beyond the skua in the morning, with 2 Bewick's Swans in with them, but the group flew off whilst we were there.
I also paid a return visit to the Shorelark at Rossall Point, this time the bird was favouring the beach past the Coastguards Tower, as you walk down from the car park, but today is reported back on the grass by the car park. Too busy no doubt yesterday as the grass was well used by dog walkers.
Doc Brewster said
Mon Jan 19 2:15 PM, 2015
Ian McKerchar wrote:
Originally posted today by Richard Thew:
I would love to add the great grey shrike to my list. I have an opertunity tomorrow. Does anyone know please, if he is still at st annes by the sea in Blackpool?
The Great Grey Shrike was originally found about a kilometre away form the area that it now favours. Yesterday all areas of the moss, including its original haunt, were searched and birders spent more than 4 hours there at least without a sighting. No news on the pager today either, sorry
Rob Creek said
Mon Jan 19 1:44 PM, 2015
Ian McKerchar wrote:
Originally posted today by Richard Thew:
I would love to add the great grey shrike to my list. I have an opertunity tomorrow. Does anyone know please, if he is still at st annes by the sea in Blackpool?
Hi Richard, The Great Grey Shrike isn't by the sea so to speak, it is actually at Lytham Moss in the famous Brambles patch at Queensway traffic lights and the Animal Sanctuary junction. It shows really well for long periods on its lookout perches and catching prey but it seems it's not been reported since Friday as far as I can see.
The bird you may be still catch by the sea is the Shore Lark. It is a bit further up the coast between Blackpool and Fleetwood at Rossall Point. It usually shows either on the grass at the main car park or on the shingle around the observatory tower about 500yds or so from the car park, either way it's usually picked up fairly easily but is flushed fairly easily too by Dog walkers! Cheers Rob
Ian McKerchar said
Mon Jan 19 12:20 PM, 2015
Originally posted today by Richard Thew:
I would love to add the great grey shrike to my list. I have an opertunity tomorrow. Does anyone know please, if he is still at st annes by the sea in Blackpool?
Rob Creek said
Sun Jan 18 8:20 PM, 2015
Left Marton Mere and took a chance on the Pomarine Skua at Cockers Dyke not far from Knott-End.
Thanks to a recently acquired friend Paul Slade from Fylde Sightings with his help on this one.
1 juv Pomarine Skua (a Lifer for me)
I found the bird on the boggy vegetation on the sea front in bitterly cold conditions. It was hobbling over the little grassy hills towards a large Gull carcass and in the process towards myself and one other birder. I was told earlier by a Marton birder that the Skua didn't look well and it was soon apparent to me also that something didn't look right. It made its way over to approx within 25yds struggling over the uneven ground, we could see a strange looking 'injury type' shape or swelling on its left wing, I asked the other birder if he'd seen it fly as surely it would've just landed at the Gull. He hadn't seen it fly and was in agreement that something wasn't right. At that moment a large Dog came charging down off the path and towards the Skua, we both shouted at the owners and they called it back but it was too late, the bird could indeed fly but seemed to struggle a little. It landed some 50yds away and began making its way over again, walking! It took a good 15 mins for it to struggle over but it made it and was feeding well as it tore mouthful after mouthful off the carcass. I felt a bit of déjà vous with this bird and then it struck me...it reminded me of the Audenshaw juv Great Skua, it resembled it in certain ways including the strange area on the wing, and it's behaviour too, struggling to get to food but was obviously able to eat well AND FLY when needed. I will compare shots of both birds when I get chance. The Pomarine Skua was still there feeding at last light when I left.
Other birds of note... (some in large numbers) -Sanderling (not in winter plumage) -Oystercatcher -Redshank -Dunlin -1 flock of Golden Plover came through -5 Curlew came through -plenty of Gulls out on the mud flats and a pair of hands iced up but worth it.
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Sunday 18th of January 2015 09:14:31 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Jan 12 9:42 PM, 2015
Another just over the border at Hutton Roof. On a Carnforth, Lancashire post code but actually in Cumbria. Sightings sporadic.
Was at Rossall on Saturday being blown horizontal but managed views of the Shorelark on beach in front of the observation tower. Sand being blown in face at what seemed like 100 mph. Somehow managed a couple of record shots with my new Canon SX50 together with others of Turnstone and Ringed Plover.
The only time I've experienced wind worse than this (if you'll pardon the expression) was one winter birding on Walney in the mid 80s!
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Monday 12th of January 2015 09:52:54 PM
John Watson said
Mon Jan 12 1:14 PM, 2015
There are 2 at present: the other is at Grindleton Fell, just N of Clitheroe. There had been a 3rd at Horwich Moor.
We sometimes get just 1, often in the Clitheroe area, but 3 is exceptional. It has been a good winter for them in the UK
Joel Tragen said
Sun Jan 11 9:42 PM, 2015
Hi I have never seen a great grey shrike before and was wondering how many are in lanchashire at the moment?
Paul Richardson said
Sun Jan 11 7:39 PM, 2015
Sat 10th Jan 10am-12.30.
The Great Grey Shrike showed well in very strong winds after a lot of searching - very near to the perimeter fence of Blackpool Airport. (I gather this is further along the footpath than it normally favours but to be honest with the weather I was surprised it was not over the other side of the Pennines!).
Beautiful bird - and a lifer for me!
Also there was a very fine male Red Breasted Merganser on Fairhaven Lake. Couldn't find the Scaup which I guess was hunkered down somewhere.
Apart from a few Curlew and Oystercatcher on the beach, the rest of the morning was mostly spent getting a free exfoliation treatment to my face from the flying sand!
steven burke said
Sun Jan 4 9:30 PM, 2015
blackpool north shore..
4 purple sandpiper amongst redshank & turnstone on the wall of the go-karting trak. 17 eider on the sea hundreds of common scoter sparrowhawk flying around north pier.
Mark Jarrett said
Sun Jan 4 6:48 PM, 2015
Back on the Fylde today. Weather sunnyish, fine and very cold.
Started off with a ten minute look at Lytham, near the lighthouse, then up to Fairhaven and the mudflats/sandbar just offshore from the lake, on up to Rossall, across to Knott End, a bit further east to Cocker's Dyke and finally a finish on the edge of Poulton Industrial Estate.
I had seen the Scaup and Great Grey Shrike yesterday. The Fairhaven mudflats were packed with mainly Oystercatcher and Knott. The odd Dunlin and Sanderling, plent of Redshank and around 30 Bar tailed Godwit. Once at Rossall the Shorelark was quickly located giving excellent, close views just up from the observation tower. It was only 30 mins after high tide so there was no distance at all to the sea from the pathway. An Eider was about 50 yards out whilst watching the Shorelark. Little Egret were added at Knott End along with a few hundred Oystercatcher, Shelduck and around 150 Bar tailed Godwit, well out. The stars at Cocker's Dyke were the flock or around 100 Twite and a herd of 150 Whooper Swan 3/4 of a mile to the east. Also here a flyover skein of 35 Pink footed Goose. The day before yesterday there was a large flock of Pink footed Goose to the south of Poulton Ind Estate and in this general area surrounding Singleton also a Barnacle Goose, 2 White fronted Goose and a Tundra Bean Goose. Today drew a blank (local knowledge a bonus) but there were 122 Curlew feeding adjacent to the Ind Estate.
A great day again, in the company of Steve Burke and Simon Gough again.
69 species of Birds seen (including a Lifer for me) across various sites over the Fylde.
Sites included... Fairhaven Lake, Lytham Moss, Marton Mere, Singleton, Pilling, and Knott End.
I have reported the sightings on the relevant threads.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Jan 3 8:52 PM, 2015
Was in Lytham this afternoon so made brief visits to Lytham Moss and Fairhaven Lake.
The Great Grey Shrike was giving distant views on the Moss, where indicated in previous posts and the Scaup, whilst not on the RSPB sightings board, was definitely on the Lake tucked up just off the end of the larger island. Also on the Lake, Red Breasted Merganser giving nice views, together with Tufted Duck, Pochard, Shoveler and Great Crested Grebe.
Will be back on the Fylde tomorrow in the Rossall, Cocker's Dyke and Singleton areas.
Andrew Mitchell said
Sat Jan 3 6:25 PM, 2015
A quick afternoon trip up to the Fylde today as the weather cleared.
Lytham Moss - Great Grey Shrike showing well at 1pm to 1.30pm on the other side of Queensway to the Animal Sanctuary. Good close views from the main roadside and the path just up from Queensway traffic lights.
Marton Mere - only 2 Long Eared Owls for me, but decent views including one particularly nice glare from one. A nice Buzzard was also in the area. On the mere - Wigeon, Teal, Tufted Duck, Mallard and Gadwall, with singles of Goosander (f), Little Grebe and Great Crested Grebe.
I stuck around until dusk hoping for Barn Owl (no luck), but was rewarded by the sound of some calling Cetti's Warblers and Water Rails, and a pre-roost gathering of a couple of thousand Starlings on the telephone wires, which led to a couple of nice mini-murmurations.
Jon Bowen said
Sat Jan 3 5:32 PM, 2015
Another day retracing my steps from Tuesday. Shore lark was evident in the grass infront of the car park at Rossall Point. Good numbers of Ringed Ploverr (14) and Turnstone (25 plus) on the beach and the marine lake. Also good numbers of redshank (50 plus) on the Marine Lake. Then on to Marton Mere, managing to dodge the showers, for 3 Long Eared Owls, and nice views of Goldcrest and Treecreeper in amongst a Tit flock that included 7 Long Tailed Tits. Fairhaven Lake produced great views of Scaup and Red Breasted Merganser as well as the only Pochard of the day, Lytham Crem produced 5 Ring necked Parakeets, a Great Spotted Woodpecker and a flock of 30 Redwings, final stop being Lytham Moss where the Great Grey Shrike was showing on the same side of the road as the Animal Sanctuary, female stonechat also showing close views.
-- Edited by Jon Bowen on Saturday 3rd of January 2015 09:05:05 PM
Mark Burgess said
Sat Jan 3 5:32 PM, 2015
Trip over to the Fylde Coast, Highlights
Latham Moss Great Grey Shrike still present this morning, in the brambles just off the path close to the road giving Very close views down to 10 meters or so.
Fairhaven Lake Red Breasted Merganser No sign of the reported Scaup for me.
Marton Mere Long eared Owl 2 possibly 3 roosting in a Hawthorn bush A very agitated Raven aggressively persueing a Sparrowhawk Water rail heard calling from the redheads
Rossall Point Shorelark still present on tideline 300m to the right of the Obs tower Good numbers of Sanderling, Oystercatcher, Redshank and Turnstone And unfortunately a very dead juvenile ringtailed Hen Harrier just off the coastal path
-- Edited by Mark Burgess on Saturday 3rd of January 2015 05:33:33 PM
-- Edited by Mark Burgess on Saturday 3rd of January 2015 06:56:45 PM
Ian McKerchar said
Fri Jan 2 12:51 PM, 2015
Great Grey Shrike still present on Lytham Moss at 11am this morning, favouring the area by Howdens.
Info thanks to Brian Fogg
Jon Bowen said
Tue Dec 30 2:31 PM, 2014
Good day out around The Fylde yesterday starting with Shore Lark at Rossall Point which showed well on the beach. 50 plus Eider off-shore with males involved in some courtship display. Nice mix of waders just off from the Obs tower with Grey Plover, Sanderling, Dunlin, Turnstone, Oystercatcher, Curlew, Ringed Plover and a couple of Knot. Also worthy of note for year listers is the Glaucous Gull that has been coming into roost of an evening into the Wyre.
Next stop was Lytham Moss for the long staying Great Grey Shrike which showed really well after a wait of an hour or so. WE stopped on route to scan the Pink Footed Geese flock as both Todd's Canada Goose and Bean Goose reported in the flocks but not seen in the flocks we encountered.
Final stop of the day was Marton Mere for the Long Eared Owls which have chosen an much easier roost spot for those short in stature like me to observe them.
Mike Chorley said
Sun Dec 14 7:06 PM, 2014
A good collection of species on a sometimes damp day around The Fylde with Karen F, Riggers, John Rayner & Mike A.
96 Twite at Knott End, showing well on the beach by the RNLI ramp, as well as on the roofs along The Esplanade around 9 a.m.
Family party of 3 Whooper Swans just north west of Pilling
Shore Lark ditto on the field next to the golf course at Rossall
Snow Bunting showing very well feeding close to the sea wall " three groynes west of the new observation tower" at Rossall - both about 13.00
Great Grey Shrike showing very well on Lytham Moss
Pair of Greater Scaup - reasonable views on a fairly choppy Fairhaven Lake
5 Ring-necked Parakeets and a Little Egret(!) at Lytham Crematorium put a fine finish on the day and this year's monthly trips
-- Edited by Mike Chorley on Sunday 14th of December 2014 07:14:25 PM
Patrick Earith said
Sat Dec 13 10:25 AM, 2014
Both birds still present at 10:00 this morning in nice, sunny conditions
Joe Wynn said
Sat Dec 13 9:54 AM, 2014
Shore Lark showing really well yesterday, mobile but favouring area just north of the tower and also the rough ground in the car park. It's completely oblivious to people on the sea wall, but as soon as someone on the beach comes along the bird flies. Also present was a Snow Bunting further to the south. That was very approachable, sitting on the groynes immediately visible from the sea wall. Thanks for the directions, much appreciated!
Rob Creek said
Thu Dec 11 8:05 PM, 2014
Joe Wynn wrote:
Hi, going to try for the Shore Lark tomorrow by getting the tram up to Fleetwood and then walk back towards rossall, I don't know the area at all though, can anyone help me with directions to the spot the bird's been favouring?
Cheers,
Joe
Hi Joe, Going off all reports on the Fylde Bird sightings it seems the Shore Lark has been virtually in the same place all week, which is where Austin describes and where I had it last Saturday. It's worth bearing in mind though, it may not be obvious at first as it really does blend in to the habitat, you will probably soon pick it up when it goes into feeding mode though. Watch out for Dog walkers, it gets flushed easily if they're about. Well worth going though! Best of luck Rob
Austin Morley said
Thu Dec 11 6:59 PM, 2014
Hi Joe, punch FY7 8PG in to your sat nab and this will take you to Rossall point car park, from here walk on to the path over the small dunes and walk south towards the big new modern watch tower. I had the bird around 300 yards south of this tower on the shingle.
Hope this helps
Joe Wynn said
Thu Dec 11 6:13 PM, 2014
Hi, going to try for the Shore Lark tomorrow by getting the tram up to Fleetwood and then walk back towards rossall, I don't know the area at all though, can anyone help me with directions to the spot the bird's been favouring?
Cheers,
Joe
Ian McKerchar said
Tue Dec 9 10:37 PM, 2014
Originally posted today by Dave Ousey:
Myself and Steve B just could not resist a Shore Lark at Rossall Point, Fleetwood, so off we went last Sunday. A cold, windy, grey morning greeted us both as Steve drove towards the coast, after leaving Rochdale at 8am. My last sighting of this species was in the Bolton area a few year`s ago, they are certainly not as usual as they used to be. We got to Rossall Point and a real strong wind blew the sand into our faces, as we battled the elements. A couple of early birders, were on the beach watching something, it was the bird a cracking male Shore Lark! We spent about 3/4 of an hour watching and trying to get a couple of pictures of the bird and the conditions were forgotten about. Well worth the effort in the end. The tide was well in as we visited the river mouth, were 5 Eiders were seen battling the strong winds. Our next stop was Lytham Moss where a Great Grey Shrike had taken up residence, not far from Blackpool Airport. It was a little hard to find at first (knowing how difficult shrikes can be for me in Lancashire) when out of nowhere it appeared sat on top of a tall bush. Always good to watch as the local Magpie chased it around and eventually gave up and left the shrike alone. In Lytham Crematorium there is a very small population of Ring Necked Parakeets, these are always worth popping in to see and listen to and what they are up to. Pulling leaves of Holly bushes is their latest pastime, very exotic. A male Scaup was seen next on Fairhaven lake and afforded very close views with it striking plummage and diving ability. A birdwatching colleague of ours, sent me a text to tell us that a Great Northern Diver had been found on Rishton Reservoir in Lancashire, so off we went in search of this large diving seabird. We reached Rishton and one of the ELOC members present, could not see the bird after a long search, had it flown off? He thought so and began to leave. Steve B had other idea`s (he had found all the birds this morning) he said, I have got the diver, its there. I quickly called the departing birder back to see the diver and he was pleased and so were we. All in all a really grand day out we reached home by 2-45pm.
Dave Ousey.
steven burke said
Sat Dec 6 10:10 PM, 2014
at Fleetwood before heading down to rossall...
8 eider, 7 male, 1 female. 1 little egret 3 great crested grebe 12+ skylark lots of sanderling redshank, dunlin, oystercatcher, curlew & shelduck.
Birdguides are reporting Bufflehead at Hambleton / Shard Bridge today
Starr Gate 7.45 - 8.45am,
Little Gull 9 all south
Kittiwake
Ringed Plover 2
Oystercatcher 40+
Cormorant c35
Rossall Point 9.15 - 10.30am over high tide
Turnstone c30
Sanderling c30
Ringed Plover c30
Oystercatcher c50
Eider 1 male
Greenfinch 13
Linnet c30
Fairhaven Lake & Shore (tide well out)
Shag (1)
Shelduck (c.10)
Curlew (c.10)
Reed Bunting (7)
Linnet (c.25)
Starr Gate
Common Scoter (c.200)
Red throated Diver (1)
Sanderling (5)
Oystercatcher (c.15)
Rossall
Eider (c.10)
Turnstone (5)
Sanderling (c.10)
Ringed Plover (c.30)
Pink footed Goose (c.25)
Knott End/Cocker's Dyke
Knot (c.1500)
Dunlin (c.1500)
Curlew (c.250)
Golden Plover (c.15)
Sanderling (c.25)
Turnstone (10)
Oystercatcher
Lapwing
Redshank
Whooper Swan (48)
Little Egret (2)
Shelduck
11.00-15.00 ( High Tide 14.30)
Walked along the sea wall almost down to Fluke Hall, then back past Pilling Lane Ends and about a mile northwards towards Cockerham.
1f Merlin, 1f Sparrowhawk and 1 Kestrel were over the saltmarsh. 32 Whooper Swans were on nearby stubble.
5 Skylarks and 12 Meadow Pipits were along the sea wall.
Large numbers of Starlings, 12+ Little Egrets, a few Redshanks and Shelducks were on the marsh.
Curlews popped out from virtually every little tidal gulley. At high water a flock of 14 Curlews settled on nearby pasture with 50+ Lapwings.
Small groups of Pink Footed Geese flew off the shore line as the tide advanced, and moved to nearby farmland.
A Great Spotted Woodpecker flew over the dyke and settled on the saltmarsh amongst the sheep, some of whom had a Starling riding on their back.
I searched the woodland near the car park for small birds, as a Yellow Browed Warbler had been reported at nearby Fluke Hall yesterday, but alas I only found a couple of Wrens.
A covey of 16 Grey Partridges flushed off the sea wall at one point, whilst 6 Red Legged Partridges were near the car park, but there is a large game estate close by,
and judging by the sheer numbers of Mallards in that area, these are all likely to be released birds.
Visit to Cocker's Dyke near Knott End with Simon Gough.
Not been here since January when I came to see the 'late' juv Pomarine Skua, and yesterday proved to be a good visit too.
High Tide 12.20pm produced...
- Oystercatcher - up in the 100's
- Lapwing - plenty about
- Golden Plover 1 in moult
- Grey Plover 1 possibly a juv with Lapwing, then another single combing the shore line, then a flock if 43 dropped in onto the flats a bit further out as the tide was going out, 1 in summer plumage others in various stages.
- Knot - group of 6, 1 having a slightly blush red breast, and also 1 out with the Grey Plovers
- Curlew - group of 9 flying around and feeding
- Redshank - lots of them
- Little Egret 1 over, woman dog walker reported she saw a lot last week
- Great Black-backed Gull - 15+
- Common Gull - probably around 10
- Black-headed Gull - plenty around
- Common Eider - 2 females
- Teal - 3 in grass clumps near coast path
- Greylag Geese - 2 skeins over (a passer-by thought they could've been Pink-footed's but these were large and bulky)
- Kestrel 3 in view same time
- Swallow - plenty around over Horse Paddocks
- Wheatear - 2 very active around the rocks just below the path
- Pied Wagtail 1 over and landed in Horse paddocks
- Cormorants - few out to sea
...and 1 other bird which in my mind was a Curlew Sandpiper, and a juvenile at that, with the Burton bird being fairly fresh in the mind still.
I picked up on the bird feeding around the Oystercatchers and the Knot. Straight away I thought be careful, Juvenile Dunlin??? But it looked to have a slightly larger build and longer legs, what I think was a longer and more curved bill too, and a peachy shade wash around the foreneck and breast, and cleanish white underbelly. I was watching it and managed to put Simon on to it, but within seconds it was flushed with all the other Waders by a large juvenile Gull and I can honestly say I didn't get a view of the clean white rump to clinch it as it was easily lost in the commotion so as far as I'm concerned the attributes I saw pointed towards Curlew Sandpiper but not 100% conclusive I'm afraid.
Cracking little place this and a very interesting visit.
En-route to Cocker's Dyke up near Knott End, myself and Simon Gough stopped off for a quick scan of the fields near Singleton and Poulton just north of Marton Mere.
Within a few minutes, sightings were...
1 Common Buzzard
1 Kestrel
1 Wheatear
Rooks
Carrion Crows
Jackdaws
Black-headed Gulls
Herring Gulls
Lesser Black-backed Gulls
1 Grey Heron
Lots of Woodpigeon
Also, 2 pair of Red-Breasted Merganser, one on marine lake and what at sea.
Stonechat near the observation tower.
Sanderling
Ringed Plover
Turnstone
Linnet
Wren
Oystercatcher
Black-headed Gulls
Juvenile very large gull, awaiting confirmation, looked like Great Black-Backed Gull!
-- Edited by Keith Williams on Monday 23rd of February 2015 08:50:14 AM
Tide a long way out.
Merlin on the marshes
Dunlin
Black tailed Godwit
Lapwing
Curlew
Little Egret
Redshank
Raven
And most unusually Carrion Crow taking a Dunlin
Also Oystercatchers, Curlew and a Reed Bunting.
Finally caught up with the Shorelark at Rossall Point, feeding around the picnic benches but regularly disturbed by dogs and their b****y owners.
Also Turnstones, Redshanks, Linnets, 2 Skylarks and a male Eider on the high tide.
News today that the worst case scenario happened & the bird was found dead, I am not surprised given that wing problem, I suppose it was just a matter of time. So sad that a bird that gave so many so much pleasure & their best ever views of Pomarine Skua should end up dead
Info thanks to Brian Fogg
Arrived around 9.30 and despite the tide being out there were good numbers of waders in easy scoping distance including:
Bar-tailed Godwit
Golden Plover
Knot
Dunlin
Shelduck
Oystercatcher
Lapwing
Redshank
Pink-Footed Geese and Whooper Swans over
also
30 plus Twite on the shoreline
Mistle Thrush
Fieldfare and Redwing over.
The Pomarine Skua was on the land side in a field near a Pink-footed Goose corpse (3 fields up from the Pump House). a few locals mentioned it had flown quite strongly yesterday but it's wing didn't look great - although it looked fine in itself otherwise.
Then decided to try for the Tundra Bean Goose reported yesterday off Mythorp Rd nr Marton Mere.
Having located the Pink-Foot flock it was a case of scoping through and a false alarm created by a orange legged Pink Foot the Tundra Bean Goose ended up showing really well at the front of the flock.
So a good few hours out and about with some great birds..
Started the day at Fairhaven, moved up to Starr Gate for a bit of seawatching, ditto Rossall observation tower, then on to Cocker's Dyke. Weather cold and blustery.
Amongst others :-
Common Scoter (c.25)
Eider (c.12)
Red breasted Merganser (1)
Little Egret (2)
Pink footed Goose (135)
Turnstone
Grey Plover (c.12)
Golden Plover (c.35)
Knot
Dunlin
Twite (c.40)
Linnet (c.30)
Shorelark (1)
Pomarine Skua (1)
Good to meet you, Keith, great way to christen the bins & to grip me off with a yeartick that I missed on Sunday
After getting my new bins from Doc Brewster (Focal Point), cheers Doc, excellent service, I headed up the M6.
Great Grey Shrike exactly where Richard Thew described it.
Parked at the entrance to the Animal Sanctuary crossed the road diagonal to the public footpath and the shrike was 100yds down on the left perched at the top of a tree overlooking the brambles at the back of the roofing place.
Other than that Kestrel (f) and 2 Great Tits.
Then headed for the Shore Lark (Rossal point thread)
Nearly a full squad of A Teamers for a trip to the seaside, with the promise of some different birds and a couple from last year, who seemed to be wintering. We left a snowy Norden around 7-30am after a few local difficulties, well put Chris, who took the wheel. We got through the various belts of icy fog and as we reached the coast it was cold but the sun was shining at times. Calling firstly at Knott End slipway for a nice Twite. Our second call was to see the first winter dark morph Pomarine Skua that had been blown into Cockers Dyke in the recent gales. The bird appeared to have an injured wing and was being supplied with some carrion / food by the local birders. We searched the bird filled coast and salt marsh and could not pick up the Pomarine Skua. I didnt have my telescope with me, having hoped for some pictures of the close feeding skua, so, as I scanned the area with my binoculars, I kept being drawn to a strange shape in the distance, a clod of salt marsh surely? A birder said, I have the skua, yes it was the clod, tip:-always take your scope with you! The bird eventually got to its feet to repel the attentions of 2 Carrion Crows, who looked like undertakers weighing up their next victim! The hoped for close up of this bird did not materialise, but 2 Mediterranean Gulls were seen. Lots of godwits,Curlews and a large skein of Pink Footed Geese flew over the bay, very nice. A trip along the coast towards Thurnham to see the Whooper & Bewick`s Swans was enjoyed, helped by one of the Flyde bird clubs members,many thanks. Golden & Grey Plovers feeding in roadside fields in large number were also noted. At Bradshaw Lane End & Eagland Hill the small feeding stations are usually filled with small finches, but only Tree Sparrows were seen and no evidence of any food for the birds. The Shore Lark was enjoyed at Rossall Point though it was still quite cold on this part of the coast, smart little bird this one. At Marton Mere the hoped for Iceland Gull, Firecrest, Long Eared Owl or Cetti`s Warbler were not located, a couple of Shoveller and a smart female Sparrowhawk were our reward. The trend continued as the regular Great Grey Shrike on Lytham Moss had not been seen for 2 hours prior to our arrival and was not located. A dash up to Parsonage Reservoir near Rishton to see a wintering Great Northern Diver was to be our last stop on a wintry birding day. Around 20 new species were enjoyed by all our team and a little more knowledge gained about Pomarine Skua`s that are on the ground!
Dave O.
Great Grey Shrike NE of St. Anne's at Lytham Moss west of the B5261 by the industrial estate near the entrance to Easterleigh Animal Sanctuary at 14:30. From the B5261 take Wildings Lane north, park and walk north.
Sorry to have missed you again Rob, as I was there too, but in the morning at the Pom Skua. A bit warmer than you experienced, I think the wind got keener as the day went on. Photographically the bird showed fantastically well, and it ate well too. But as you say all was not well. One of its wings was held quite loosely, hanging down in an unnatural position, many of my photos show this very clearly. However as you say it could fly, previous to me arriving it had flown in from the tideline to the corpse. I never saw it move at all, not even walking, it just stayed by the dead gull and kept eating. It is there again today so keeps on surviving, everything crossed for it now. As well as some of the species Rob mentions there was a small herd of Whooper Swans out beyond the skua in the morning, with 2 Bewick's Swans in with them, but the group flew off whilst we were there.
I also paid a return visit to the Shorelark at Rossall Point, this time the bird was favouring the beach past the Coastguards Tower, as you walk down from the car park, but today is reported back on the grass by the car park. Too busy no doubt yesterday as the grass was well used by dog walkers.
The Great Grey Shrike was originally found about a kilometre away form the area that it now favours. Yesterday all areas of the moss, including its original haunt, were searched and birders spent more than 4 hours there at least without a sighting. No news on the pager today either, sorry
Hi Richard,
The Great Grey Shrike isn't by the sea so to speak, it is actually at Lytham Moss in the famous Brambles patch at Queensway traffic lights and the Animal Sanctuary junction. It shows really well for long periods on its lookout perches and catching prey but it seems it's not been reported since Friday as far as I can see.
The bird you may be still catch by the sea is the Shore Lark. It is a bit further up the coast between Blackpool and Fleetwood at Rossall Point.
It usually shows either on the grass at the main car park or on the shingle around the observatory tower about 500yds or so from the car park, either way it's usually picked up fairly easily but is flushed fairly easily too by Dog walkers!
Cheers
Rob
I would love to add the great grey shrike to my list. I have an opertunity tomorrow. Does anyone know please, if he is still at st annes by the sea in Blackpool?
Thanks to a recently acquired friend Paul Slade from Fylde Sightings with his help on this one.
1 juv Pomarine Skua (a Lifer for me)
I found the bird on the boggy vegetation on the sea front in bitterly cold conditions. It was hobbling over the little grassy hills towards a large Gull carcass and in the process towards myself and one other birder.
I was told earlier by a Marton birder that the Skua didn't look well and it was soon apparent to me also that something didn't look right.
It made its way over to approx within 25yds struggling over the uneven ground, we could see a strange looking 'injury type' shape or swelling on its left wing, I asked the other birder if he'd seen it fly as surely it would've just landed at the Gull. He hadn't seen it fly and was in agreement that something wasn't right.
At that moment a large Dog came charging down off the path and towards the Skua, we both shouted at the owners and they called it back but it was too late, the bird could indeed fly but seemed to struggle a little. It landed some 50yds away and began making its way over again, walking!
It took a good 15 mins for it to struggle over but it made it and was feeding well as it tore mouthful after mouthful off the carcass.
I felt a bit of déjà vous with this bird and then it struck me...it reminded me of the Audenshaw juv Great Skua, it resembled it in certain ways including the strange area on the wing, and it's behaviour too, struggling to get to food but was obviously able to eat well AND FLY when needed.
I will compare shots of both birds when I get chance. The Pomarine Skua was still there feeding at last light when I left.
Other birds of note...
(some in large numbers)
-Sanderling (not in winter plumage)
-Oystercatcher
-Redshank
-Dunlin
-1 flock of Golden Plover came through
-5 Curlew came through
-plenty of Gulls out on the mud flats
and a pair of hands iced up but worth it.
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Sunday 18th of January 2015 09:14:31 PM
Was at Rossall on Saturday being blown horizontal but managed views of the Shorelark on beach in front of the observation tower. Sand being blown in face at what seemed like 100 mph. Somehow managed a couple of record shots with my new Canon SX50 together with others of Turnstone and Ringed Plover.
The only time I've experienced wind worse than this (if you'll pardon the expression) was one winter birding on Walney in the mid 80s!
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Monday 12th of January 2015 09:52:54 PM
We sometimes get just 1, often in the Clitheroe area, but 3 is exceptional. It has been a good winter for them in the UK
The Great Grey Shrike showed well in very strong winds after a lot of searching - very near to the perimeter fence of Blackpool Airport. (I gather this is further along the footpath than it normally favours but to be honest with the weather I was surprised it was not over the other side of the Pennines!).
Beautiful bird - and a lifer for me!
Also there was a very fine male Red Breasted Merganser on Fairhaven Lake. Couldn't find the Scaup which I guess was hunkered down somewhere.
Apart from a few Curlew and Oystercatcher on the beach, the rest of the morning was mostly spent getting a free exfoliation treatment to my face from the flying sand!
4 purple sandpiper amongst redshank & turnstone on the wall of the go-karting trak.
17 eider on the sea
hundreds of common scoter
sparrowhawk flying around north pier.
Started off with a ten minute look at Lytham, near the lighthouse, then up to Fairhaven and the mudflats/sandbar just offshore from the lake, on up to Rossall, across to Knott End, a bit further east to Cocker's Dyke and finally a finish on the edge of Poulton Industrial Estate.
I had seen the Scaup and Great Grey Shrike yesterday. The Fairhaven mudflats were packed with mainly Oystercatcher and Knott. The odd Dunlin and Sanderling, plent of Redshank and around 30 Bar tailed Godwit. Once at Rossall the Shorelark was quickly located giving excellent, close views just up from the observation tower. It was only 30 mins after high tide so there was no distance at all to the sea from the pathway. An Eider was about 50 yards out whilst watching the Shorelark. Little Egret were added at Knott End along with a few hundred Oystercatcher, Shelduck and around 150 Bar tailed Godwit, well out. The stars at Cocker's Dyke were the flock or around 100 Twite and a herd of 150 Whooper Swan 3/4 of a mile to the east. Also here a flyover skein of 35 Pink footed Goose. The day before yesterday there was a large flock of Pink footed Goose to the south of Poulton Ind Estate and in this general area surrounding Singleton also a Barnacle Goose, 2 White fronted Goose and a Tundra Bean Goose. Today drew a blank (local knowledge a bonus) but there were 122 Curlew feeding adjacent to the Ind Estate.
Amonst others :-
Little Egret (3)
Whooper Swan (c.150)
Pink footed Goose (c.35)
Eider (1)
Buzzard (1)
Knot (c.300)
Sanderling
Dunlin
Bar tailed Godwit (c.180)
Turnstone
Shorelark (1)
Twite (c.100)
69 species of Birds seen (including a Lifer for me) across various sites over the Fylde.
Sites included...
Fairhaven Lake, Lytham Moss, Marton Mere, Singleton, Pilling, and Knott End.
I have reported the sightings on the relevant threads.
The Great Grey Shrike was giving distant views on the Moss, where indicated in previous posts and the Scaup, whilst not on the RSPB sightings board, was definitely on the Lake tucked up just off the end of the larger island. Also on the Lake, Red Breasted Merganser giving nice views, together with Tufted Duck, Pochard, Shoveler and Great Crested Grebe.
Will be back on the Fylde tomorrow in the Rossall, Cocker's Dyke and Singleton areas.
Lytham Moss - Great Grey Shrike showing well at 1pm to 1.30pm on the other side of Queensway to the Animal Sanctuary. Good close views from the main roadside and the path just up from Queensway traffic lights.
Marton Mere - only 2 Long Eared Owls for me, but decent views including one particularly nice glare from one. A nice Buzzard was also in the area. On the mere - Wigeon, Teal, Tufted Duck, Mallard and Gadwall, with singles of Goosander (f), Little Grebe and Great Crested Grebe.
I stuck around until dusk hoping for Barn Owl (no luck), but was rewarded by the sound of some calling Cetti's Warblers and Water Rails, and a pre-roost gathering of a couple of thousand Starlings on the telephone wires, which led to a couple of nice mini-murmurations.
Then on to Marton Mere, managing to dodge the showers, for 3 Long Eared Owls, and nice views of Goldcrest and Treecreeper in amongst a Tit flock that included 7 Long Tailed Tits.
Fairhaven Lake produced great views of Scaup and Red Breasted Merganser as well as the only Pochard of the day, Lytham Crem produced 5 Ring necked Parakeets, a Great Spotted Woodpecker and a flock of 30 Redwings, final stop being Lytham Moss where the Great Grey Shrike was showing on the same side of the road as the Animal Sanctuary, female stonechat also showing close views.
-- Edited by Jon Bowen on Saturday 3rd of January 2015 09:05:05 PM
Latham Moss
Great Grey Shrike still present this morning, in the brambles just off the path close to the road giving Very close views down to 10 meters or so.
Fairhaven Lake
Red Breasted Merganser
No sign of the reported Scaup for me.
Marton Mere
Long eared Owl 2 possibly 3 roosting in a Hawthorn bush
A very agitated Raven aggressively persueing a Sparrowhawk
Water rail heard calling from the redheads
Rossall Point
Shorelark still present on tideline 300m to the right of the Obs tower
Good numbers of Sanderling, Oystercatcher, Redshank and Turnstone
And unfortunately a very dead juvenile ringtailed Hen Harrier just off the coastal path
-- Edited by Mark Burgess on Saturday 3rd of January 2015 05:33:33 PM
-- Edited by Mark Burgess on Saturday 3rd of January 2015 06:56:45 PM
Info thanks to Brian Fogg
Also worthy of note for year listers is the Glaucous Gull that has been coming into roost of an evening into the Wyre.
Next stop was Lytham Moss for the long staying Great Grey Shrike which showed really well after a wait of an hour or so. WE stopped on route to scan the Pink Footed Geese flock as both Todd's Canada Goose and Bean Goose reported in the flocks but not seen in the flocks we encountered.
Final stop of the day was Marton Mere for the Long Eared Owls which have chosen an much easier roost spot for those short in stature like me to observe them.
96 Twite at Knott End, showing well on the beach by the RNLI ramp, as well as on the roofs along The Esplanade around 9 a.m.
Family party of 3 Whooper Swans just north west of Pilling
Shore Lark ditto on the field next to the golf course at Rossall
Snow Bunting showing very well feeding close to the sea wall " three groynes west of the new observation tower" at Rossall - both about 13.00
Great Grey Shrike showing very well on Lytham Moss
Pair of Greater Scaup - reasonable views on a fairly choppy Fairhaven Lake
5 Ring-necked Parakeets and a Little Egret(!) at Lytham Crematorium put a fine finish on the day and this year's monthly trips
-- Edited by Mike Chorley on Sunday 14th of December 2014 07:14:25 PM
Hi Joe,
Going off all reports on the Fylde Bird sightings it seems the Shore Lark has been virtually in the same place all week, which is where Austin describes and where I had it last Saturday.
It's worth bearing in mind though, it may not be obvious at first as it really does blend in to the habitat, you will probably soon pick it up when it goes into feeding mode though. Watch out for Dog walkers, it gets flushed easily if they're about. Well worth going though!
Best of luck
Rob
Hope this helps
Cheers,
Joe
Myself and Steve B just could not resist a Shore Lark at Rossall Point, Fleetwood, so off we went last Sunday. A cold, windy, grey morning greeted us both as Steve drove towards the coast, after leaving Rochdale at 8am. My last sighting of this species was in the Bolton area a few year`s ago, they are certainly not as usual as they used to be. We got to Rossall Point and a real strong wind blew the sand into our faces, as we battled the elements. A couple of early birders, were on the beach watching something, it was the bird a cracking male Shore Lark! We spent about 3/4 of an hour watching and trying to get a couple of pictures of the bird and the conditions were forgotten about. Well worth the effort in the end. The tide was well in as we visited the river mouth, were 5 Eiders were seen battling the strong winds. Our next stop was Lytham Moss where a Great Grey Shrike had taken up residence, not far from Blackpool Airport. It was a little hard to find at first (knowing how difficult shrikes can be for me in Lancashire) when out of nowhere it appeared sat on top of a tall bush. Always good to watch as the local Magpie chased it around and eventually gave up and left the shrike alone. In Lytham Crematorium there is a very small population of Ring Necked Parakeets, these are always worth popping in to see and listen to and what they are up to. Pulling leaves of Holly bushes is their latest pastime, very exotic. A male Scaup was seen next on Fairhaven lake and afforded very close views with it striking plummage and diving ability. A birdwatching colleague of ours, sent me a text to tell us that a Great Northern Diver had been found on Rishton Reservoir in Lancashire, so off we went in search of this large diving seabird. We reached Rishton and one of the ELOC members present, could not see the bird after a long search, had it flown off? He thought so and began to leave. Steve B had other idea`s (he had found all the birds this morning) he said, I have got the diver, its there. I quickly called the departing birder back to see the diver and he was pleased and so were we. All in all a really grand day out we reached home by 2-45pm.
Dave Ousey.
8 eider, 7 male, 1 female.
1 little egret
3 great crested grebe
12+ skylark
lots of sanderling
redshank, dunlin, oystercatcher, curlew & shelduck.