Short walk from Hillside Farm-April Cottage-Quarry-Gun Road. Plenty of juveniles about:
Wheatear 1 Adult Goldcrest feeding 2 juveniles Mostly juvenile Goldfinch flock of c50 Juvenile Skylark Raven 2 in the distance Linnet 4 Juvenile Blackcap
Cheers John
Andy Bissitt said
Sun Aug 12 9:23 PM, 2018
A couple of hours p.m. was mostly underwhelming, the only notable encounter was with 50+ linnets which moved through SE & SW (stopping briefly) in two groups of c20 and 30+.
John Rayner said
Wed Aug 8 2:18 PM, 2018
Not much to report on the bird front. 6 Tree Sparrows were the best of a meagre 24 species seen. Better things on 'Other Wildlife'.
On the other hand plenty to report on habitat changes/alternations:
- The conifers and woodland between Cloughend Farm and Hillside Farm is currently being partly felled (trees under the pylon wires). Tawny Owl roost. - New pylons are lying in the fields waiting to be erected. Not sure if these are replacements or additional. - The trail bikers continue to tear up the SBI habitat above and below the quarry. I have reported this to Stockport Council but it seems they are powerless to prevent this. - The field between April Cottage and Cloughend Bungalow has been strimmed and mowed and a channel for drainage is currently being dug. This was where Barn Owl once hunted. - Similarly, the Red-throated Pipit field has had all rushes strimmed to allow a few extra sheep to graze. - A 2 foot ditch has been dug along Gun Road parallel to this field to aid drainage. - Extensive muck spreading over the stony field adjacent to the quarry pool.
Enjoy your cheap legs of lamb. They carry an environmental cost.
Cheers, John
John Rayner said
Mon Aug 6 3:10 PM, 2018
Green Woodpecker (juv) was feeding by the quarry. The first of the year for me up here. An adult Hobby mobbed by a dozen Swallows at Far Bradshaw Also at Far Bradshaw was a Whinchat. Presumably the same as yesterday's bird at the quarry
Also: Buzzard 1 Sparrowhawk 1 Kestrel 1 Meadow Pipit 32 Swallow 23 Linnet 8 Goldfinch 42 Redpoll 2 heard Reed Bunting 6 Whitethroat 3 including at least 1 juvenile
32 Swallow (23 of these near the Kennels in Derbyshire though) 4 Chiffchaff 3 Linnet 3 Swift 3 Willow Warbler 2 Meadow Pipit 2 Buzzard 2 Reed Bunting 1 Whitethroat 1 Redpoll (Though I had more last week)
Butterflies and single Moth in other wildlife.
Cheers
Mark
Andy Bissitt said
Sat Jun 30 9:33 PM, 2018
Forgot to mention yesterday that a single redpoll was twice over the road near Clough End Farm. I know they have been missing recently.
John Rayner said
Sat Jun 30 7:33 PM, 2018
A few birds seen but mainly after insects today. Also a new trail bike circuit cut through the SBI and skirting Gun Road:
Golden Plover 19 Skylark 9 Snipe 2 Swift 14 Lapwing 9 Buzzard 1
Odonata and Lepidoptera on Other Wildlife forum.
Cheers, John
Andy Bissitt said
Wed Jun 13 9:48 PM, 2018
Additions this afternoon to the last report on here 2 days ago were singing common whitethroat and garden warbler, and a couple of ravens which invaded the air-space of a pair of curlews who promptly saw them off no bother! Most of the curlews still around, but no other waders where I looked (which was not that widely really). Sad to see the mess that the Canada geese have made around the quarry pond. A pity their breeding attempt has been successful. Last year I think a fox predated the nest, but jolly old Mr Farmer has probably got rid of the 'pest' since then leaving a bigger one (in my opinion).
Andy
John Rayner said
Mon Jun 11 7:59 PM, 2018
A late afternoon visit with some decent flocks present:
Curlew 12 - including a feeding flock of 9 Golden Plover 19 Lapwing 52 Oystercatcher 1 Swift c30 - feeding overhead Reed Bunting 3 - singing Skylark 4 - singing Meadow Pipit 5 Snipe 1 Linnet 1 Carrion Crow sat on nest
Cheers John
Mark Walsh said
Thu Jun 7 6:38 PM, 2018
Called up for an afternoon walk in the sun, was almost melting by the end of it.
A sizable Woodpigeon flock of 117 had 2 Stock dove hidden amongst that I could see. 30 Swift over the quarry 18 Swallow 5 Lesser Black Backed 5 Linnet 4 Meadow Pipit 4 Lapwing 3 Skylark 3 Reed Bunting 1 Curlew 1 Lesser Whitethroat 1 Common Whitethroat 1 Garden Warbler 1 Buzzard
Other wildlife in relevant thread.
Cheers
Mark
John Rayner said
Thu May 31 11:46 AM, 2018
BBS late visit:
Nothing exceptional. Usual numbers of Lapwings, Skylarks, Meadow Pipits, Curlew, Reed Buntings etc. Low numbers of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs recorded (perhaps because they were silent).
Best record was a party of at least 12 Tree Sparrows, including some juveniles, around Smithy Farm.
Cheers, John
Andy Bissitt said
Thu May 17 9:48 PM, 2018
John Rayner wrote:
Mark Walsh wrote:
Called in this morning to have a quick look for the Sedge Warbler, found not only the Warbler but also Mr Rayner and Mr Bissitt.
In addition to the Sedge we also had 87 (I think) Golden Plover. There were a number of Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler singing locally as well. Other than that not much else.
In addition I tried up Ernocroft Lane but only found 4 Linnets and a Stock Dove
Cheers John
I did hear the garden warbler on the walk back when I had passed the bungalow opposite Clough End (not really where we were looking, but it's obviously mobile).
Andy
John Rayner said
Thu May 17 6:08 PM, 2018
Mark Walsh wrote:
Called in this morning to have a quick look for the Sedge Warbler, found not only the Warbler but also Mr Rayner and Mr Bissitt.
In addition to the Sedge we also had 87 (I think) Golden Plover. There were a number of Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler singing locally as well. Other than that not much else.
In addition I tried up Ernocroft Lane but only found 4 Linnets and a Stock Dove
Cheers John
Mark Walsh said
Thu May 17 5:36 PM, 2018
Called in this morning to have a quick look for the Sedge Warbler, found not only the Warbler but also Mr Rayner and Mr Bissitt.
In addition to the Sedge we also had 87 (I think) Golden Plover. There were a number of Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler singing locally as well. Other than that not much else.
John Rayner said
Tue May 15 2:24 PM, 2018
Highlights:
Sedge Warbler (2nd local bird this year and my first at Ludworth since 2009) Raven 3 Golden Plover 31 Garden Warbler 1
Cheers John
John Rayner said
Sun May 13 4:06 PM, 2018
09.00-11.30.
Next highlight was a Snipe drumming overhead. A lovely sound I've not heard up here for a few years. Golden Plover 41 Wheatear 4 Skylark 8 singing males Raven 2 Lapwing 22 Reed Bunting 4 Curlew 1 Buzzard 2 Linnet 2 pairs Carrion Crow flock of 43
Cheers John.
Andy Bissitt said
Mon May 7 9:13 PM, 2018
Not really a bird hunt (but the kite would have been nice). Highlights were 1 common whitethroat, 3 tree sparrows, raven, at least 4 prs of swallow, 3 linnet at least, 1 reed bunting and sundry other usuals.
paul shaw said
Mon May 7 12:55 PM, 2018
1 Red Kite had just drifted over Ludworth moor heading towards Rowath
John Rayner said
Sat Apr 28 7:23 PM, 2018
Best bits from this morning:
Wheatear 19 (9 Picking Rods path, 3 above quarry, 4 below SBI area, 3 above Green Gates Fm) Curlew 3 Oystercatcher 1 Golden Plover 1 Tree Sparrow 3 (Larkhill)
Cheers John.
-- Edited by John Rayner on Sunday 29th of April 2018 12:07:42 AM
John Rayner said
Sat Apr 21 2:06 PM, 2018
BBS Survey around the greater area. Some of the highlights included:
Grasshopper Warbler 2 (both reeling) Raven 8 (including 2 in a half hearted attempt at the beginnings of a nest on pylon) Skylark 12 Lesser Whitethroat 2 (pair nest building) Whitethroat 1 Tree Sparrow 3 (Smithy Farm) Stock Doves 2 Wheatear 9
Cheers, John
Robert Adderley said
Fri Apr 20 4:42 PM, 2018
Lesser Whitethroat singing and showing on the Far Bradshaw side this afternoon.
Mark Walsh said
Thu Apr 19 6:44 PM, 2018
Second early morning visit this week, the first on Monday had nothing new from previous visits, today had a few fresh migrants in. Joined part way by John Rayner;
Most notable was a reeling Grasshopper Warbler which was then located by myself and Mr Rayner, (there seem to be few in today looking at other threads). While watching the Grasshopper we then had our first Whitethroat of the spring in pretty much the next bush/tree. A good number of Wheatear were also present.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 19th of April 2018 10:49:52 PM
Mark Walsh said
Fri Apr 13 6:58 PM, 2018
A brief visit this evening proved to be fruitful with a male Yellow Wagtail in much the same area John had one last week.
Other than that;
39 Lapwing 12 Meadow Pipit (with a flock of 30+ in Derbyshire) 8 Pied Wagtail 4 Skylark 3 Reed Bunting 3 Bullfinch 2 Curlew 2 Golden Plover 2 Chiffchaff and singles of, White Wagtail, Linnet, Wheatear, Willow Warbler, Swallow.
Cheers
Mark
Mark Walsh said
Mon Apr 9 5:43 PM, 2018
Called up again this morning 7:30 - 10:15
Was hoping for Ring Ouzel but no luck there, I was rewarded though with 1 Wheatear and 2 Oystercatchers as well as several Chiffchaff's singing. No Willow Warblers as yet.
Mark Walsh said
Sat Apr 7 5:35 PM, 2018
Called up midday and stayed through the afternoon as the weather had improved somewhat. Covered a fairly large area of Ludworth including the SBI area south east of the quarry, joined partway by Mr Rayner.
Highlight was 3 male Wheatear, all very smart individuals.
36 Lapwing with a number displaying over towards Charlesworth as well. 18 Meadow Pipit 12 Greenfinch (all at Larkhill/Brownlow) 10 Skylark 8 Pied Wagtail (No white and sadly no Yellow for me) 6 Snipe 5 Chaffinch 4 Curlew 4 Mistle Thrush 4 Jay 4 Buzzard 3 Chiffchaff 3 Goldfinch 2 Fieldfare 2 Oystercatcher 2 Swallow Singles of Kestrel, Tree Sparrow, Linnet
Cheers
Mark
Also 2 Reed Bunting
-- Edited by Mark Walsh on Saturday 7th of April 2018 05:36:21 PM
John Rayner said
Fri Apr 6 2:32 PM, 2018
Couldn't find any of yesterday's Wheatears but a bonus male Yellow Wagtail Golden Plovers 5 Raven 1 Curlew 1
Cheers John
John Rayner said
Thu Mar 29 2:03 PM, 2018
09.30-12.45. Full circuit with Paul Greenall: Gird Lane - Larkhill - Cloughend - Quarry - Picking Rods - Gun Lane - Kennels - Hillside Farm - Cloughend - Smithy Farm - Gird Lane.
Finally felt a bit like Spring today with the sunshine and general mildness.
One flock of about 63 Starling 18 Lapwing, with a few individuals displaying 16 Meadow Pipit with a few 'parachuting' 6 Skylark most in song (a conservative count, there were probably more) 4 Pied Wagtail 3 Reed Bunting (m) 2 Chiffchaff 2 Oystercatcher 2 Buzzard 2 Grey Heron 1 Kestrel
Cheers
Mark
Andy Bissitt said
Tue Mar 20 8:49 PM, 2018
p.m.
Saw most of what Mark saw only lesser numbers (apart from 2 buzzards). Additionals were c35 fieldfare, 4 redwings, 2 stock doves, 2 kestrels, 2 rooks, 1 raven.
Mark Walsh said
Tue Mar 20 2:33 PM, 2018
A short midmorning walk from Hillside, Picking Rods, Quarry and back to the car.
A steady increase of Lapwing with at least 60 A couple of large Starling flocks with around 300 birds in total 33 Golden Plover 9 Meadow Pipit 6 Goldfinch 4 Chaffinch 2 Pied Wagtail 1 Buzzard
Cheers
Mark
John Rayner said
Fri Mar 16 5:48 PM, 2018
Late afternoon:
Curlew 13 (including a flock of 10) Lapwing 24 Golden Plover 1 Starling 290 Fieldfare 12 Raven 4 Buzzard 3 Stock Dove 2
Cheers John
John Rayner said
Wed Mar 7 4:08 PM, 2018
A circular walk from Gird Lane - Quarry - Far Bradshaw - Smithy Lane
1st Curlews of the year in field near Moorfield Arms development 4 Reed Buntings (2 pair) under Larkhill feeders but only 1 Tree Sparrow (I hope the majority of these have decamped to Brownlow feeders) 1 Redwing 5 Fieldfare 5-6 Buzzards 2-3 Kestrels 1 Tawny Owl 5 Lapwings 2 Snipe 1 Meadow Pipit
Cheers, John
P.S. There are still numerous deep snowdrifts to negotiate on the lower parts of Smithy Lane down to Chatterton Road
Andy Bissitt said
Sun Mar 4 9:34 PM, 2018
Mark,
I was on the path behind Clough End farm when I saw you on Sandhill Ln.
Didn't see all that you did, but can add 1 further buzzard (landed in Brown Low, one was also out on the moor), a few more meadow pipits (15+ in all), 4 rooks, and a snipe which I flushed from the brook that runs into the farm garden. Should also add that if you didn't go that far there was an 8-foot snowdrift blocking the quarry path. Amazing.
-- Edited by Andy Bissitt on Sunday 4th of March 2018 09:37:39 PM
Called up for a brief walk this afternoon, still lots of snow from Hillside and beyond but it's clear up to Cloughend.
40+ Starling in small groups around Larkhill and Brownlow 11 Redwing 10 Golden Plover flying near Brownlow 7 Meadow Pipit 7 Goldfinch 6 Chaffinch 4 Greenfinch 1 Buzzard 1 Kestrel 1 Bullfinch
And 1 Goosander flying East
Cheers
Mark
Noticed Andy's car but our paths didn't cross.
-- Edited by Mark Walsh on Sunday 4th of March 2018 06:01:39 PM
John Rayner said
Sat Feb 24 1:51 PM, 2018
8 Tree Sparrows (5 Larkhill, 3 April Cottage) 2 Ravens 4 Buzzards (looked like 2 pairs, 1 pair displaying) 2 Ravens 2 Tawny Owls 1 Kestrel 1 Snipe
Cheers John
Mark Walsh said
Mon Feb 19 5:04 PM, 2018
Late post for Saturday;
Highlight was a Stonechat in the field above the quarry, other than that;
31 Golden Plover 12 Starling 7 Meadow Pipit Then a single Raven, Lapwing and Buzzard.
Called in again this afternoon to see if I could catch up with the Stonechat again but no luck on that front, otherwise;
63 Starling and 41 Fieldfare - in one large flock 17 Goldfinch 2 Mistle Thrush 2 Raven and singles of Bullfinch, Greenfinch, Grey Wagtail and Kestrel.
Cheers
Mark
Andy Bissitt said
Fri Feb 9 9:45 PM, 2018
Mark Walsh wrote:
A brief walk this afternoon from Larkhill to the PR path and back via the quarry.
Not much to report.
c80 Golden Plover 20 Meadow Pipits 12 Goldfinch 3 Green Finch 2 Raven Single's of Kestrel , Sparrowhawk and Buzzard.
It was a bitterly cold wind though.
Bumped into Andy Bisset while up there as well.
Cheers
Mark
As well as those mentioned by Mark, also 12 rooks, 3 snipe and a mixed flock of starlings and fieldfare of about 71 birds split 50/50 inc. one redwing making the odd bird! Viewing was difficult what with the wind, and friendly sheep scaring off the snipe!
Cheers,
Andy.
Mark Walsh said
Fri Feb 9 5:37 PM, 2018
A brief walk this afternoon from Larkhill to the PR path and back via the quarry.
Not much to report.
c80 Golden Plover 20 Meadow Pipits 12 Goldfinch 3 Green Finch 2 Raven Single's of Kestrel , Sparrowhawk and Buzzard.
It was a bitterly cold wind though.
Bumped into Andy Bisset while up there as well.
Cheers
Mark
John Rayner said
Wed Feb 7 1:46 PM, 2018
Superb, crisp morning:
Highlights were: Snipe 8 Jack Snipe 1 Raven 5
Not seen any Tree Sparrows at Larkhill on last few visits (albeit around midday)
Cheers, John
Andy Bissitt said
Tue Jan 30 10:11 PM, 2018
Just so the place doesn't disappear from view! A visit this p.m. was largely lacking in drama, but did have (amongst others) 2 ravens, buzzard, 2 kestrels, sparrowhawk, 3 bullfinches, 5 rooks, 10 fieldfare, 1/2 redwings, 2 mistle thrushes. The feeders at Larkhill were deserted and it looked as if some tree work had been taking place. I saw no tree sparrows, which I pray is temporary.
Mark Walsh said
Sat Jan 20 3:31 PM, 2018
A brief call up midday, focussing on Larkhill to Cloughend;
Larkhill:
8 Tree Sparrow (at least) 2 Reed Bunting 6 Chaffinch
-- Edited by Mark Walsh on Saturday 20th of January 2018 03:31:36 PM
John Rayner said
Tue Dec 26 2:13 PM, 2017
Rather depressingly there was a trail bike event underway in the quarry, organised by 'Manchester 17 Motorcycle Club'. Over 100 people, 48 vehicles including a catering van and 50+ competitors. Nor surprisingly there were few birds around. This list a listed Grade A Site of Biological Importance but in reality that counts for nothing.
3 Greenfinch and 4 Tree Sparrows at Larkhill Kestrel hunting c80 Common Gulls
Cheers John
-- Edited by John Rayner on Tuesday 26th of December 2017 02:14:41 PM
Mark Walsh said
Sat Dec 23 12:33 PM, 2017
A late post for yesterday afternoon, started off at Larkhill and made my way to the Picking Rods and back down via the quarry;
153 Starling in several groups C100 Lapwing (probably Andy's group but I only saw them briefly so no proper count) 35 Goldfinch all in one flock 26 Fieldfare 18 Snipe 8 Tree Sparrow 5 Chaffinch 5 Greenfinch 4 Bullfinch Singles of Kestrel, Goldcrest and Treecreeper
Cheers
Mark
Andy Bissitt said
Wed Dec 20 9:15 PM, 2017
19th December.
c125 lapwings was decent for up here. Also 50+ starlings , 2 ravens, reed bunting, small numbers of fieldfare (10) and redwing (less) in field at Smithy Lane, but I spotted a larger number of thrushes using the wood at Brown Low when I got back to the parking area. There was a constant passage of gulls in small groups (mostly common/herring) all but a few going south-east.
Did the walk I tend to do most in Winter: Glossop Rd lay-by (nr fishponds), up Sandhill Lane to April Cottage, back to Ernocroft Lane and down there to Glossop Rd - back to car along road (took in a little of Ernocroft Wood).
c50 lapwings, 40 - 50 redwings, 15 - 20 fieldfare, c90 starlings, 5 tree sparrows, 6+ bullfinches, grey wagtail (using Gird Lane as if it was a stream), 3 buzzards. Great Spotted woodpecker one of only three species in Ernocroft Wood. Nice morning though.
Short walk from Hillside Farm-April Cottage-Quarry-Gun Road. Plenty of juveniles about:
Wheatear 1
Adult Goldcrest feeding 2 juveniles
Mostly juvenile Goldfinch flock of c50
Juvenile Skylark
Raven 2 in the distance
Linnet 4
Juvenile Blackcap
Cheers John
A couple of hours p.m. was mostly underwhelming, the only notable encounter was with 50+ linnets which moved through SE & SW (stopping briefly) in two groups of c20 and 30+.
On the other hand plenty to report on habitat changes/alternations:
- The conifers and woodland between Cloughend Farm and Hillside Farm is currently being partly felled (trees under the pylon wires). Tawny Owl roost.
- New pylons are lying in the fields waiting to be erected. Not sure if these are replacements or additional.
- The trail bikers continue to tear up the SBI habitat above and below the quarry. I have reported this to Stockport Council but it seems they are powerless to prevent this.
- The field between April Cottage and Cloughend Bungalow has been strimmed and mowed and a channel for drainage is currently being dug. This was where Barn Owl once hunted.
- Similarly, the Red-throated Pipit field has had all rushes strimmed to allow a few extra sheep to graze.
- A 2 foot ditch has been dug along Gun Road parallel to this field to aid drainage.
- Extensive muck spreading over the stony field adjacent to the quarry pool.
Enjoy your cheap legs of lamb. They carry an environmental cost.
Cheers, John
An adult Hobby mobbed by a dozen Swallows at Far Bradshaw
Also at Far Bradshaw was a Whinchat. Presumably the same as yesterday's bird at the quarry
Also:
Buzzard 1
Sparrowhawk 1
Kestrel 1
Meadow Pipit 32
Swallow 23
Linnet 8
Goldfinch 42
Redpoll 2 heard
Reed Bunting 6
Whitethroat 3 including at least 1 juvenile
Cheers John
Late morning:
Lapwing flock 57
Starling flock c110
Meadow Pipit 22
Swift 8 south
Swallow 7
Redpoll 2
Goldfinch 14
Chiffchaff 2
Wilow Warbler 1
Buzzard 1
Cheers John
Highlights included a large (for Ludworth) Goldfinch flock of 100+ birds with a few Linnet mixed in. 2 Whitethroat and 2 Raven also seen.
Derbyshire held a flock of about 250 Starlings.
Cheers
Mark
16 Lapwing
13 Swallow
9 Goldfinch
7 Swift
3 Willow Warbler
3 Redpoll
2 Chiffchaff
2 Buzzard
2 Kestrel
2 Whitethroat
Cheers
Mark
Buzzard 4
Kestrel 2
Lapwing 133
Raven 2
Redpoll 2
Bullfinch 1
32 Swallow (23 of these near the Kennels in Derbyshire though)
4 Chiffchaff
3 Linnet
3 Swift
3 Willow Warbler
2 Meadow Pipit
2 Buzzard
2 Reed Bunting
1 Whitethroat
1 Redpoll (Though I had more last week)
Butterflies and single Moth in other wildlife.
Cheers
Mark
Forgot to mention yesterday that a single redpoll was twice over the road near Clough End Farm. I know they have been missing recently.
Golden Plover 19
Skylark 9
Snipe 2
Swift 14
Lapwing 9
Buzzard 1
Odonata and Lepidoptera on Other Wildlife forum.
Cheers, John
Additions this afternoon to the last report on here 2 days ago were singing common whitethroat and garden warbler, and a couple of ravens which invaded the air-space of a pair of curlews who promptly saw them off no bother! Most of the curlews still around, but no other waders where I looked (which was not that widely really). Sad to see the mess that the Canada geese have made around the quarry pond. A pity their breeding attempt has been successful. Last year I think a fox predated the nest, but jolly old Mr Farmer has probably got rid of the 'pest' since then leaving a bigger one (in my opinion).
Andy
Curlew 12 - including a feeding flock of 9
Golden Plover 19
Lapwing 52
Oystercatcher 1
Swift c30 - feeding overhead
Reed Bunting 3 - singing
Skylark 4 - singing
Meadow Pipit 5
Snipe 1
Linnet 1
Carrion Crow sat on nest
Cheers John
A sizable Woodpigeon flock of 117 had 2 Stock dove hidden amongst that I could see.
30 Swift over the quarry
18 Swallow
5 Lesser Black Backed
5 Linnet
4 Meadow Pipit
4 Lapwing
3 Skylark
3 Reed Bunting
1 Curlew
1 Lesser Whitethroat
1 Common Whitethroat
1 Garden Warbler
1 Buzzard
Other wildlife in relevant thread.
Cheers
Mark
Nothing exceptional. Usual numbers of Lapwings, Skylarks, Meadow Pipits, Curlew, Reed Buntings etc. Low numbers of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs recorded (perhaps because they were silent).
Best record was a party of at least 12 Tree Sparrows, including some juveniles, around Smithy Farm.
Cheers, John
I did hear the garden warbler on the walk back when I had passed the bungalow opposite Clough End (not really where we were looking, but it's obviously mobile).
Andy
In addition I tried up Ernocroft Lane but only found 4 Linnets and a Stock Dove
Cheers John
In addition to the Sedge we also had 87 (I think) Golden Plover. There were a number of Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler singing locally as well. Other than that not much else.
Sedge Warbler (2nd local bird this year and my first at Ludworth since 2009)
Raven 3
Golden Plover 31
Garden Warbler 1
Cheers John
09.00-11.30.
Next highlight was a Snipe drumming overhead. A lovely sound I've not heard up here for a few years.
Golden Plover 41
Wheatear 4
Skylark 8 singing males
Raven 2
Lapwing 22
Reed Bunting 4
Curlew 1
Buzzard 2
Linnet 2 pairs
Carrion Crow flock of 43
Cheers John.
Not really a bird hunt (but the kite would have been nice). Highlights were 1 common whitethroat, 3 tree sparrows, raven, at least 4 prs of swallow, 3 linnet at least, 1 reed bunting and sundry other usuals.
Wheatear 19 (9 Picking Rods path, 3 above quarry, 4 below SBI area, 3 above Green Gates Fm)
Curlew 3
Oystercatcher 1
Golden Plover 1
Tree Sparrow 3 (Larkhill)
Cheers John.
-- Edited by John Rayner on Sunday 29th of April 2018 12:07:42 AM
Grasshopper Warbler 2 (both reeling)
Raven 8 (including 2 in a half hearted attempt at the beginnings of a nest on pylon)
Skylark 12
Lesser Whitethroat 2 (pair nest building)
Whitethroat 1
Tree Sparrow 3 (Smithy Farm)
Stock Doves 2
Wheatear 9
Cheers, John
Second early morning visit this week, the first on Monday had nothing new from previous visits, today had a few fresh migrants in. Joined part way by John Rayner;
Most notable was a reeling Grasshopper Warbler which was then located by myself and Mr Rayner, (there seem to be few in today looking at other threads).
While watching the Grasshopper we then had our first Whitethroat of the spring in pretty much the next bush/tree.
A good number of Wheatear were also present.
Also seen;
22 Lapwing
19 Meadow Pipits
12 Skylark
11 Wheatear
9 Swallow
8 Chaffinch
7 Willow Warbler
7 Pied Wagtail
6 Goldfinch
5 Chiffchaff
5 Reed Bunting
5 Golden Plover
4 Linnet
4 Curlew
2 Tree Sparrow
2 Oystercatcher
Cheers
Mark
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Thursday 19th of April 2018 10:49:52 PM
Other than that;
39 Lapwing
12 Meadow Pipit (with a flock of 30+ in Derbyshire)
8 Pied Wagtail
4 Skylark
3 Reed Bunting
3 Bullfinch
2 Curlew
2 Golden Plover
2 Chiffchaff
and singles of, White Wagtail, Linnet, Wheatear, Willow Warbler, Swallow.
Cheers
Mark
Was hoping for Ring Ouzel but no luck there, I was rewarded though with 1 Wheatear and 2 Oystercatchers as well as several Chiffchaff's singing. No Willow Warblers as yet.
Highlight was 3 male Wheatear, all very smart individuals.
36 Lapwing with a number displaying over towards Charlesworth as well.
18 Meadow Pipit
12 Greenfinch (all at Larkhill/Brownlow)
10 Skylark
8 Pied Wagtail (No white and sadly no Yellow for me)
6 Snipe
5 Chaffinch
4 Curlew
4 Mistle Thrush
4 Jay
4 Buzzard
3 Chiffchaff
3 Goldfinch
2 Fieldfare
2 Oystercatcher
2 Swallow
Singles of Kestrel, Tree Sparrow, Linnet
Cheers
Mark
Also 2 Reed Bunting
-- Edited by Mark Walsh on Saturday 7th of April 2018 05:36:21 PM
Golden Plovers 5
Raven 1
Curlew 1
Cheers John
Brambling 2 (Larkhill feeders)
Greenfinch 11
Tree Sparrow 9 (7 Larkhill, 2 Smithy Farm)
Chiffchaff 4
Tawny Owl 2 heard
Bullfinch 4
Jay 2
Buzzard 2
Kestrel 1
Oystercatcher 2
Curlew 1
Fieldfare c40
Skylark 4
Lapwing 18
Sparrowhawk 2
Meadow Pipits c45
Cheers John
One flock of about 63 Starling
18 Lapwing, with a few individuals displaying
16 Meadow Pipit with a few 'parachuting'
6 Skylark most in song (a conservative count, there were probably more)
4 Pied Wagtail
3 Reed Bunting (m)
2 Chiffchaff
2 Oystercatcher
2 Buzzard
2 Grey Heron
1 Kestrel
Cheers
Mark
p.m.
Saw most of what Mark saw only lesser numbers (apart from 2 buzzards). Additionals were c35 fieldfare, 4 redwings, 2 stock doves, 2 kestrels, 2 rooks, 1 raven.
A steady increase of Lapwing with at least 60
A couple of large Starling flocks with around 300 birds in total
33 Golden Plover
9 Meadow Pipit
6 Goldfinch
4 Chaffinch
2 Pied Wagtail
1 Buzzard
Cheers
Mark
Curlew 13 (including a flock of 10)
Lapwing 24
Golden Plover 1
Starling 290
Fieldfare 12
Raven 4
Buzzard 3
Stock Dove 2
Cheers John
1st Curlews of the year in field near Moorfield Arms development
4 Reed Buntings (2 pair) under Larkhill feeders but only 1 Tree Sparrow (I hope the majority of these have decamped to Brownlow feeders)
1 Redwing
5 Fieldfare
5-6 Buzzards
2-3 Kestrels
1 Tawny Owl
5 Lapwings
2 Snipe
1 Meadow Pipit
Cheers, John
P.S. There are still numerous deep snowdrifts to negotiate on the lower parts of Smithy Lane down to Chatterton Road
Mark,
I was on the path behind Clough End farm when I saw you on Sandhill Ln.
Didn't see all that you did, but can add 1 further buzzard (landed in Brown Low, one was also out on the moor), a few more meadow pipits (15+ in all), 4 rooks, and a snipe which I flushed from the brook that runs into the farm garden. Should also add that if you didn't go that far there was an 8-foot snowdrift blocking the quarry path. Amazing.
-- Edited by Andy Bissitt on Sunday 4th of March 2018 09:37:39 PM
40+ Starling in small groups around Larkhill and Brownlow
11 Redwing
10 Golden Plover flying near Brownlow
7 Meadow Pipit
7 Goldfinch
6 Chaffinch
4 Greenfinch
1 Buzzard
1 Kestrel
1 Bullfinch
And 1 Goosander flying East
Cheers
Mark
Noticed Andy's car but our paths didn't cross.
-- Edited by Mark Walsh on Sunday 4th of March 2018 06:01:39 PM
2 Ravens
4 Buzzards (looked like 2 pairs, 1 pair displaying)
2 Ravens
2 Tawny Owls
1 Kestrel
1 Snipe
Cheers John
Highlight was a Stonechat in the field above the quarry, other than that;
31 Golden Plover
12 Starling
7 Meadow Pipit
Then a single Raven, Lapwing and Buzzard.
Called in again this afternoon to see if I could catch up with the Stonechat again but no luck on that front, otherwise;
63 Starling and 41 Fieldfare - in one large flock
17 Goldfinch
2 Mistle Thrush
2 Raven
and singles of Bullfinch, Greenfinch, Grey Wagtail and Kestrel.
Cheers
Mark
Not much to report.
c80 Golden Plover
20 Meadow Pipits
12 Goldfinch
3 Green Finch
2 Raven
Single's of Kestrel , Sparrowhawk and Buzzard.
It was a bitterly cold wind though.
Bumped into Andy Bisset while up there as well.
Cheers
Mark
Highlights were:
Snipe 8
Jack Snipe 1
Raven 5
Not seen any Tree Sparrows at Larkhill on last few visits (albeit around midday)
Cheers, John
Just so the place doesn't disappear from view! A visit this p.m. was largely lacking in drama, but did have (amongst others) 2 ravens, buzzard, 2 kestrels, sparrowhawk, 3 bullfinches, 5 rooks, 10 fieldfare, 1/2 redwings, 2 mistle thrushes. The feeders at Larkhill were deserted and it looked as if some tree work had been taking place. I saw no tree sparrows, which I pray is temporary.
Larkhill:
8 Tree Sparrow (at least)
2 Reed Bunting
6 Chaffinch
Elsewhere:
9 Greenfinch
1 Fieldfare
1 Raven
1 Buzzard
1 Kestrel
Cheers
Mark
-- Edited by Mark Walsh on Saturday 20th of January 2018 03:31:36 PM
Rather depressingly there was a trail bike event underway in the quarry, organised by 'Manchester 17 Motorcycle Club'. Over 100 people, 48 vehicles including a catering van and 50+ competitors. Nor surprisingly there were few birds around. This list a listed Grade A Site of Biological Importance but in reality that counts for nothing.
3 Greenfinch and 4 Tree Sparrows at Larkhill
Kestrel hunting
c80 Common Gulls
Cheers John
-- Edited by John Rayner on Tuesday 26th of December 2017 02:14:41 PM
153 Starling in several groups
C100 Lapwing (probably Andy's group but I only saw them briefly so no proper count)
35 Goldfinch all in one flock
26 Fieldfare
18 Snipe
8 Tree Sparrow
5 Chaffinch
5 Greenfinch
4 Bullfinch
Singles of Kestrel, Goldcrest and Treecreeper
Cheers
Mark
19th December.
c125 lapwings was decent for up here. Also 50+ starlings , 2 ravens, reed bunting, small numbers of fieldfare (10) and redwing (less) in field at Smithy Lane, but I spotted a larger number of thrushes using the wood at Brown Low when I got back to the parking area. There was a constant passage of gulls in small groups (mostly common/herring) all but a few going south-east.
Tree Sparrow 9 (Larkhill)
Bullfinch 4
Raven 1
Kestrel 1
Fieldfare 7
Redwing 2
Cheers John
Did the walk I tend to do most in Winter: Glossop Rd lay-by (nr fishponds), up Sandhill Lane to April Cottage, back to Ernocroft Lane and down there to Glossop Rd - back to car along road (took in a little of Ernocroft Wood).
c50 lapwings, 40 - 50 redwings, 15 - 20 fieldfare, c90 starlings, 5 tree sparrows, 6+ bullfinches, grey wagtail (using Gird Lane as if it was a stream), 3 buzzards. Great Spotted woodpecker one of only three species in Ernocroft Wood. Nice morning though.