Two and a half hours this morning, to the bench by the second bridge and back, with a diversion to the drop field and Long Hedge. Weather pleasant, light winds, sunny spells, 13-15*c. Amongst others :-
Mute Swan (7) Great Crested Grebe (2) Swift (11) Buzzard (2) Kestrel (1) Skylark (5) Sedge Warbler (4) Reed Warbler (5) Grasshopper Warbler (1) Barn Swallow (18) House Martin (8) Chiffchaff (9) Cettis Warbler (4) Blackcap (2) Whitethroat (3) Stonechat (1) Yellow Wagtail (1) Linnet (2) Reed Bunting (6)
The Mute Swan pair, having jettisoned last years six youngsters several weeks ago, now have a new brood of five. The Great Crested Grebes seem to have failed, both out on the river with no young present. The Yellow Wagtail was in the crop field up near the canal. Thought I was going to have a quiet morning but it turned out decent enough.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 29 12:18 PM, 2024
Three and a half hours this morning from 7.20 to Dutton Woods and back. A mixture of river and canal. Weather cloudy with a cold breeze, 9-11*c. Of note :-
Good numbers now of Blackcap, Whitethroat, Reed Warbler and Cettis Warbler. Total species seen - 62
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Apr 27 6:49 PM, 2024
Two White Wagtail amongst several Pied, late afternoon, in the ploughed field at Dutton Locks.
No sign of the female Ring Ouzel, seen earlier by local birder Frank Duff.
Mark Jarrett said
Fri Apr 26 4:03 PM, 2024
To the Dutton Locks open fields again, this morning, lovely clear but cold weather, 3-9*c and after scraping ice off the car at 7am.
Theyve finished seeding the ploughed field now, it held a male Wheatear but nothing else of note. Herring Gulls are like hens teeth on this patch but a few have been down following the tractor. There were two Grasshopper Warblers reeling from the field to the left of Long Hedge, one was finally spotted but, as usual, too far away for photos. With the other reeler downstream of the viaduct, that makes three for the patch at the moment.
Whilst really only concentrating on the fields, I still managed 8 warbler species, which is now the norm. Sedge Warblers seem to be doing well and I managed 6 Cettis Warbler between the swing bridge and the big bridge just before the locks. A Kingfisher flew downstream opposite the dredging beds.
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Apr 25 11:54 AM, 2024
A walk to the open fields this morning in intermittent rain, light winds, 9-10*c.
Another 8spp warbler with a reeling Grasshopper (again). The ploughed field held a Yellow Wagtain, a male Wheatear and a probable female Whinchat (too far away for the bins) which flew off north.
There was a Grey Wagtail pair down at the swing bridge by the A49. The Grasshopper Warbler wouldnt show itself although this nearby Sedge Warbler was in fine voice.
Five mile walk this morning from the Leigh Arms to the top part of Dutton Wood, returning by the same route, by the river. Weather sunny spells, light winds, 9-11*c.
As I was making my way to the ploughed field, fellow Dutton Locks and Marbury patcher, Vernon Lundy was on his way back from circuiting the field, after having found a male Whinchat on the fence line. The bird was still there when I arrived a few minutes later, looking resplendent in the lovely light, also two male Wheatear in the field with a Grasshopper Warbler reeling behind me. Of note :-
The second Grasshopper Warbler was in the same area as I heard one reeling, earlier this month, below Dutton Wood.
Species seen - 52
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 22 7:44 PM, 2024
Walk from Leigh Arms, this morning, down the river, up to the canal before the locks, then back to the Leigh Arms via the canal. The rain, surprisingly, didnt materialise.
Another 8 spp warbler day, including a reeling Grasshopper, 2 male Wheatear in the large ploughed field and a total of 41 spp seen.
Mark Jarrett said
Fri Apr 19 5:51 PM, 2024
Walk from the Leigh Arms, yesterday morning, to the bridge past Dutton Locks and back by the same route. Weather sunny, light winds, 9-11*c.
An 8 warbler day with Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Cettis Warbler and a reeling Grasshopper Warbler.
The large, recently ploughed field between the river and canal held a Yellow Wagtail, with the lower field, two each of Stonechat and Wheatear.
Species seen - 52
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Apr 11 12:36 PM, 2024
Three and three quarter hours this morning from 7.55am, weather sunny spells, light winds, 12-16*c. Leigh Arms to the top end of Dutton Wood and back by the same route. Spent an hour or so by Long Hedge in between the river and canal hoping for Wheatear, without luck. I did, however, hear a reeling Grasshopper Warbler, one of last years returning birds. Amongst others :-
Good to find a second reeling Grasshopper Warbler, below Dutton Wood a few hundred yards downstream of the viaduct. Hopefully a new territory but may just be moving through. First patch Reed Warbler of the year, a single bird in reeds by the river.
Species seen - 51
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Apr 6 12:33 PM, 2024
Just under two and a half hours this morning in blustery but relatively mild weather. Along the river to Dutton Locks, the canal via Bluebell Cottage, down Long Hedge to the river again and back that way. Of note :-
Usual walk by the river, this morning, down to Dutton Locks and up into Dutton Wood. Back by the same route. Fine, breezy, 11*c. Nothing too exciting, a few more birds in song now including Skylark. Of note :-
Ive been walking this patch for eight years but only really birded it properly over the last 12 months or so. I hit the 100 species mark, last week, with a dusk walk when I added Tawny Owl.
Species seen - 38
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Jan 31 4:36 PM, 2024
Just under three hours from 8.55 this morning, parking up at the Leigh Arms, walking by the river, past the railway viaduct and up into Dutton Woods. Back via the river, then the canal. Weather cool, sunny spells, light winds, 2-4*c. Of note :-
Pink-footed Goose (41 over nw) Mute Swan (8) Mandarin Duck (11) Little Grebe (1) Water Rail (1) Eurasian Woodcock (1) Buzzard (2) Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) Raven (2) Skylark (1) Cettis Warbler (1) Redwing (14) Stonechat (1) Bullfinch (4)
Species seen - 46
Mark Jarrett said
Fri Jan 19 3:29 PM, 2024
Beautiful cold and crisp morning, -3 to 1*c and light winds. Usual five mile walk, by the river and then past the viaduct and into Dutton Woods. Thirty eight species seen.
Drake Goosander and a pair of Tufted Duck were unusual on patch, no doubt drawn in due to many nearby pools and meres being frozen over. Two Little Grebe were noted on the old Weaver behind Dutton Locks and the ever present eight Mute Swans down by the swing bridge over the A49, a pair plus six 2CY.
There was a large flock of winter thrushes in the first big field after the dredging beds, mainly Fieldfare and Redwing, whilst 79 Pink-footed Goose flew over heading north. Dutton Woods were quiet, although six or seven Pheasant were flushed along a narrow track that I used for the first time. A couple of Buzzard were in this general area along with at least four Raven. Singles of Bullfinch were seen in three separate locations.
Species seen - 38.
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Nov 22 3:21 PM, 2023
Same five mile walk, as last time out, two and three quarter hours from sunrise this morning.
Thirty seven species seen, nothing out of the ordinary. Highlights being c.1425 Pink-footed Goose over in around six or seven skeins, the majority moving south, with just c.75 over north west. Also, as well as the local Redwing, c500 moved through north west. Fieldfare about too, with around 75 noted.
Best of the rest were 2 Raven, 2 Buzzard, Cettis Warbler, 8 Bullfinch and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Oct 28 7:19 PM, 2023
Three and a half hours this morning from 9am in mostly dry but dull conditions, light winds, 9-11*c. Kept by the river all the way the the viaduct, then went in to the excellent Dutton Wood, as far as the railway, then returned by the same route.
45 species seen, very similar to sightings on 26 October but with additions of Bullfinch, Yellowhammer and Gadwall. Today there were 180 Pink-footed Geese, the bulk of which were heading north west. Whilst a few Fieldfare passed overhead, Redwing were very numerous with well over 200 seen, many feeding on the numerous berry laden bushes and trees, in and around Dutton Wood.
Ive never actually ventured up into Dutton Wood previously, unsure as to whether or not it was private land. It turns out it is part of the signed Dutton Park, which is a Woodland Trust reserve. Densely packed trees and bushes of many kinds with plenty of rides and interspersed with a few small pools. Looks nailed on for Woodcock at this time of year and it should prove excellent for warblers in spring.
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Oct 26 2:45 PM, 2023
Three and a quarter hours this morning in damp weather to start with becoming fine, light winds, 8-12*c. Figure of eight between river and canal, down from Acton Bridge to Dutton Locks via Bluebell Cottage. Also went past the railway viaduct before returning alongside the river. Of note :-
380 Pink-footed Geese headed south east in 5 skeins, whilst 1 skein of 30 headed north north east.
48 species seen.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Oct 23 3:45 PM, 2023
I have a patch, very roughly bordered by the River Weaver and the Trent & Mersey Canal, from the Leigh Arms by the A49 to Aston Flash, a mile or so below Aston Village.
For info purposes, a Bittern has been present up on the canal, immediately left of bridge 210, west of the A49. There are some decent (but rather small) areas of reed and the bird has been foraging out in the open, oblivious to one or two members of the boating community who were watching it at extremely close quarters.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Sep 4 10:31 AM, 2023
Three hours from 6.45am in pleasant, sunny weather after the early mist cleared, 12-17*c. Acton Bridge - Dutton Locks - Canal via Long Hedge - Bluebell Cottage - Dutton Locks - Back via River. Of note :-
The Spotted Flycatcher was two or three hundred yards away from the River in the Woodland Trusts Dutton Park. Some of the overhanging trees by the river look good for this species but I suspect this was a migrating bird. The large number of Pied Wagtail were by the A49 bridge, so I would think that they had roosted in the steelwork underneath it.
Mark Jarrett said
Fri Jul 28 4:08 PM, 2023
Same walk as last time out, just over two and a half hours from 8.10am, sunny spells, light winds, 16-19*c. Of note :-
Great Crested Grebe (2) Stock Dove (1) Collared Dove (2) Swift (3) Buzzard (1) Kestrel (2) Green Woodpecker (1) Reed Warbler (4) Grasshopper Warbler (2) Barn Swallow (38) House Martin (2) Chiffchaff (3) Whitethroat (5) Nuthatch (1) Stonechat (1) Linnet (7) Reed Bunting (6)
Noticeably quieter in the bird song department with some Reed Warbler (especially) having already departed. Similarly Whitethroat, although young of the latter in evidence. Good numbers of juvenile Swallow around indicating a decent breeding season for them. Both Grasshopper Warbler reeling away, same spots as previously. A special mention for finally nailing down a Herring Gull, like hens teeth here and first eBird sighting since 2013. I actually uttered an expletive when I saw it!
44 species seen.
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Jul 6 11:42 AM, 2023
Four hours from 6.10am, Acton Bridge figure of 8 along river and canal to Bluebell Cottage and back. Light drizzle to start, becoming sunny, 12-17*c, light winds. Amongst others :-
Pleased to find a second reeling Grasshopper Warbler reasonably close to the first. There is some decent habitat for them between the river and the canal when approaching the locks.
49 species seen.
Mark Jarrett said
Sun Jul 2 11:18 AM, 2023
A couple of hours this morning from 6.45am, Acton Bridge down to the locks and back, also spending some time between the two large open fields (east of the river, approaching the locks). Weather fine with sunny spells, a fair bit of cloud and breezy. Of note :-
Very fleeting view of the f-type Marsh Harrier which quickly went out of sight over the dredging beds which are raised up and partly edged with trees and bushes. They do not breed on this patch and the bird will have probably followed the Weaver south from either Frodsham or the Dee Estuary, so just passing through.
I have had a couple of recent early starts in an attempt to get Grasshopper Warbler on the list, without success. Today, however and amidst singing Sedge Warbler, Reed Bunting, Whitethroat and Skylark, two distinct reels after a wait of around half an hour.
Plenty of young birds about, passerines and on the river, the Whitethroat figure includes a family group of five.
Mark Jarrett said
Fri May 26 4:15 PM, 2023
Just over two hours around midday today, walking down the the river and Aston Flash, from Aston Village. Back by the same route. Weather sunny and fine, light winds, 18-19*c. Of note :-
Common Shelduck (2) Northern Shoveler (4) Gadwall (44) Eurasian Teal (1) Tufted Duck (14) Little Grebe (1-2) Northern Lapwing (7) Common Buzzard (1) Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) Eurasian Skylark (3) Barn Swallow (8) Common Chiffchaff (2) Whitethroat (2) Western Yellow Wagtail (1) Reed Bunting (2)
Impressive number of Gadwall for the size of the flash and nice to see a Yellow Wagtail in addition to the usuals. 38 species seen.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Friday 26th of May 2023 04:51:04 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Wed May 24 4:49 PM, 2023
Similar walk this morning, albeit nearly a mile further taking in Longacre Wood. Similar birds seen, in similar numbers with the addition of a Stonechat, new for me on this mini patch.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat May 20 2:34 PM, 2023
Four and a quarter mile walk from 6.15 this morning in sunny conditions, once the early mist had cleared, 7-13*c. Acton Bridge - Dutton Locks - Bluebell Cottage - Back via Trent & Mersey Canal. Of note :-
Common Shelduck (2) Great Crested Grebe (2) Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) Skylark (6) Sedge Warbler (7) Common Reed Warbler (12) Barn Swallow (11) Chiffchaff (14) Cettis Warbler (7) Eurasian Blackcap (5) Common Whitethroat (12) Grey Wagtail (1) Eurasian Bullfinch (3) Reed Bunting (3)
Influx of Whitethroat over the last week or so, possibly the highest number Ive had on this route. Good numbers of other warblers, including Cettis on both the canal and river. There is a Grasshopper Warbler spot near the dredging beds but there is some dredging work going on at present and it/they are difficult to pin down. Also, loads of suitable habitat for Lesser Whitethroat, theres got to be a pair somewhere. That would make it a ten warbler patch.
46 species seen.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Saturday 20th of May 2023 04:08:36 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Mon May 15 12:25 PM, 2023
Four mile walk this morning centred on Aston Flash, by the river and surrounding farmland. Other than an initial heavy shower, the weather was fine, sunny spells, cool breeze, 11-13*c. Of note :-
Mute Swan (3) Common Shelduck (2) Northern Shoveler (4) Gadwall (28) Tufted Duck (21) Little Grebe (2) Swift (8) Northern Lapwing (9) Black-tailed Godwit (94) Little Egret (1) Buzzard (4) Skylark (4) Common Whitethroat (1) Reed Bunting (1)
Species seen 41 Reed Warbler (2) Sedge Warbler (2)
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Monday 15th of May 2023 12:36:50 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Sat May 13 8:33 AM, 2023
Walked the next section of the Weaver yesterday morning from the static caravans, just past the railway viaduct, to where the river splits on the approaches to Frodsham. Weather fine and clear, cloudy to start with, developing into sunny spells and around 14*c.
An interesting area Ive never fully explored is the flash/flooded fields below Aston Village. I was viewing from the wrong side of the river but noted that it held around 75 Black-tailed Godwit and a Curlew together with several species of duck. A Cuckoo was calling south of Aston and a Mandarin pair, on the river, with a brood of around 9 were the other main highlights. Amongst others :-
Mandarin (Pr plus 9) Gadwall (8) Pochard (2) Tufted Duck (4) Little Grebe (1) Cuckoo (1) Oystercatcher (3) Lapwing (8) Curlew (1) Black-tailed Godwit (c.75) Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) Kestrel (1) Skylark (2) Reed Warbler (13) Sand Martin (8) Swallow (4) House Martin (6) Chiffchaff (9) Blackcap (5) Common Whitethroat (4) Reed Bunting (3)
50 species seen
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 24 12:54 PM, 2023
Acton Bridge - Dutton Locks - Viaduct - Bluebell Cottage - Trent & Mersey Canal - Big Field - Back by Weaver. Sunny spells, light winds, 9-12*c. Out for just over three hours from 7.20am, 53 species seen, highlights :-
Nice to get eight species of Warbler. Grasshopper Warbler had been heard reeling early yesterday morning from the dredging beds but, unfortunately, this morning there were already working diggers there at 7.30 and despite spending a while listening, I was out of luck. Consolation came with the flyover Whimbrel, heading south following the course of the Weaver.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 17 12:55 PM, 2023
Acton Bridge - Dutton Locks - Cliff Lane - Manor Farm - Dutton Locks - Acton Bridge. Dull, cloudy, intermittent drizzle - minimal winds - 12*c. Lovely route, crossing over the river at the locks and winding through the countryside on that side. 5.12 miles covered and 52 species seen, highlights being :-
Greylag Goose (4) Gadwall (4) Great Crested Grebe (1) Stock Dove (1) Oystercatcher (1) Lapwing (4) Curlew (1) Common Snipe (1) Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) Raven (1) Skylark (4) Reed Warbler (5) Barn Swallow (9) House Martin (3) Willow Warbler (2) Chiffchaff (15) Cettis Warbler (9) Blackcap (2) Grey Wagtail (1) Reed Bunting (3)
Record count, for this mini patch, of Cettis Warbler that have been steadily increasing over the last five or so years. So much so that it was flagged up on eBird as a high count.
Mark Jarrett said
Tue Apr 11 6:48 PM, 2023
Same 4.5 mile walk as last time out in fairly pleasant weather although a ten minute deluge towards the end soaked me through. A few migrants trickling in now. Unfortunately, the male Wheatear seen earlier in the large open field appeared to have moved through. Highlights :-
-- Edited by Steve Costa on Sunday 19th of March 2023 10:31:05 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Feb 27 6:29 PM, 2023
Same walk as last time out, now become the staple walk here and approx 4.5 miles. Weather cloudy, drizzle at times, light winds and 7*c. Thirty seven species seen, highlights being :-
Pair of terns flying over the river whilst at Acton Bridge fishing.
Mark Jarrett said
Mon Apr 25 7:12 PM, 2022
Acton Bridge - Dutton Locks - Dutton Park - Bluebell Cottage - Back via Trent & Mersey Canal. Mainly checking on warbler numbers plus a few other sightings :-
Three broods of Mallard on the canal, 13, 10 & 6. A brood of 3 Coot also on the canal.
Doc Brewster said
Fri Nov 5 11:28 AM, 2021
I had a message this morning to say the a Great White Egret flew downriver at Vale Royal Cut near Vale Royal Locks at c.9.15am. A cracking bird for what used to be my old patch before I was a car driver!!
John Williams said
Mon Sep 20 7:46 PM, 2021
Afternoon walk from the A556 through Vale Royal Woods, passed Vale Royal Locks, and along the Weaver to the point where the old river
and new cut merge.
Birds seen : 2 Buzzards (1 Light Phase), 1 Grey Heron, 2 Cormorants and 2 Ravens.
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Feb 4 8:32 PM, 2021
Walked from the Blue Bridge, Hartford, down through Vale Royal Woods to the Vale Royal Locks. Back via the east bank of the Weaver. Weather cool and fine, becoming overcast. River levels still high with several areas of the patch covered in water. Amongst others :-
Walked alongside the river from Acton Bridge to Dutton Locks and back. (13:40 - 15:45)
Whooper Swan - 4 flying NW, apparently following the course of the river Water Rail - 2 heard calling from riverside reedbeds Cetti's Warbler - 1 singing from a reedbed
Winter thrushes - widely dispersed, mobile flock of 100+ fieldfares and redwings, with roughly equal numbers of each species. Many joined blackbirds to feed on hawthorns.
Mark Jarrett said
Tue May 26 11:30 AM, 2020
Walked down the Weaver from Acton Bridge this morning, then back via the Trent & Mersey Canal. Weather warm and pleasant, all the usuals including :-
Decent numbers of House Martin around the bridge itself. Also nice to hear another Cuckoo. Certainly doing well around these parts this year with up to three around Marbury Patch (two lingering and displaying) and two along Whitegate Way/Shemmy Moss. Thats without venturing to Primrosehill Wood and Delamere where there are usually birds present.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Jan 18 12:08 PM, 2020
Walked this morning from Hartford Bridge to Eaton Bank Pool and back in fine, cold and sunny weather. Amongst others :-
Tufted Duck (1f) Goosander (2f) Great Crested Grebe (2) Canada Goose (5) Cormorant (17) Nuthatch (4) Jay Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) Fieldfare (6) Pheasant (1)
Very little on the pool other than a female Goosander, a few Coot and Mallard.
Mark Jarrett said
Tue Apr 23 11:57 AM, 2019
Walked this morning, downstream of Acton Bridge to Dutton Park and pools, then retraced our steps by the river. Of note :-
Lovely walk in pleasant weather. Nice to see good numbers of Reed Warbler back.
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Jun 27 1:24 PM, 2018
Walked this morning from the bridge at Acton Bridge (roughly half way between Northwich and Frodsham) to a quarter of a mile beyond Dutton Locks and back.
Good numbers of Swallow and House Martin around with plenty of young Swallow. Also pleased with the number of both Reed Bunting and Reed Warbler, approx a dozen of each. Also seen were Sedge Warbler, Yellowhammer, Skylark, Mute Swan, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Whitethroat and Greenfinch amongst others.
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Wednesday 27th of June 2018 03:13:22 PM
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Dec 27 12:00 PM, 2017
Walk this morning from Hartford Bridge to Eaton Bank Pool and back. Fine weather, coldish, around three degrees.
A couple of Kingfishers seen, one on the old river by Vale Royal Locks, the other flew across the river down by EBP. Fourteen Gadwall on the Pool, together with several Mallard, Coot, Moorhen, two Little Grebe and a single Great crested Grebe. A dozen or so Cormorant in their usual roost, plenty of common woodland species seen including Bullfinch and Jay.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Oct 21 9:04 PM, 2017
Walk this morning from Hartford Bridge, south to New Bridge and back. Cool, windy and intermittent rain. Amongst others :
Nothing of any real note in the woodland sections of the walk. The first five entries above were at Eaton Bank Pool adjacent to the river.
Steven Nelson said
Fri Aug 25 1:46 PM, 2017
River Weaver near Frodsham 10.00-13.00
1 Common Sandpiper 1 Raven over 4 Buzzard 3 Grey Heron 2 Cormorant
John Williams said
Thu Jul 13 10:44 PM, 2017
Bradford Mill Bridge to Vale Royal Locks, plus part of the old river. 13.00-16.00
2 Buzzards,1 Sparrowhawk and 4 Grey Herons. Also a Wren was seen carrying a large green caterpillar.
Coots and Moorhens still seen with tiny youngsters at various points. There were several broods of Mallard, with a female on the old river having 5 half grown ducklings.
Mark Jarrett said
Sun Apr 2 2:23 PM, 2017
Walk this morning from Anderton Boat Lift via the Trent & Mersey Canal to the River Weaver at Saltersford Locks, then followed the river as far as the end of Bradleymeadow Wood. Returned to the Boat Lift via the river. Weather warmish and pleasant, out for three hours from 10.30. Amongst others :-
Didn't see the Cetti's Warbler but heard a burst of song from sedge by the other side of the river at Saltersford Locks.
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Mar 9 2:11 PM, 2017
Cetti's Warbler heard 400 yards downstream of Cardens Ferry Bridge this morning, far side of river in last reedbed.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Mar 4 11:33 AM, 2017
Pleasant walk this morning, south from Hartford Bridge down the east side of the river as far as Big Pool. Back up to Vale Royal Locks and from there, crossed over to the west side and back to Hartford Bridge via Vale Royal Woods. Amongst others :-
Cormorant (15 min) Canada Goose (c.25) Mute Swan (2) Little Grebe (2) Great crested Grebe (2) Kingfisher (2) Siskin (c.6) Long tailed Tit Nuthatch Reed Bunting Buzzard (6) Sparrowhawk (1)
Mute Swan (7)
Great Crested Grebe (2)
Swift (11)
Buzzard (2)
Kestrel (1)
Skylark (5)
Sedge Warbler (4)
Reed Warbler (5)
Grasshopper Warbler (1)
Barn Swallow (18)
House Martin (8)
Chiffchaff (9)
Cettis Warbler (4)
Blackcap (2)
Whitethroat (3)
Stonechat (1)
Yellow Wagtail (1)
Linnet (2)
Reed Bunting (6)
The Mute Swan pair, having jettisoned last years six youngsters several weeks ago, now have a new brood of five. The Great Crested Grebes seem to have failed, both out on the river with no young present. The Yellow Wagtail was in the crop field up near the canal. Thought I was going to have a quiet morning but it turned out decent enough.
Three and a half hours this morning from 7.20 to Dutton Woods and back. A mixture of river and canal. Weather cloudy with a cold breeze, 9-11*c. Of note :-
Gadwall (5)
Teal (1)
Great Crested Grebe (1)
Oystercatcher (1)
Lapwing (3)
Common Sandpiper (3)
Buzzard (2)
Kingfisher (1)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Kestrel (2)
Raven (2)
Skylark (7)
Sedge Warbler (8)
Reed Warbler (12)
Grasshopper Warbler (1)
Swallow (4)
Willow Warbler (6)
Chiffchaff (15)
Cettis Warbler (8)
Blackcap (11)
Whitethroat (12)
Stonechat (2)
Wheatear (1)
Bullfinch (2)
Reed Bunting (5)
Good numbers now of Blackcap, Whitethroat, Reed Warbler and Cettis Warbler. Total species seen - 62
No sign of the female Ring Ouzel, seen earlier by local birder Frank Duff.
Theyve finished seeding the ploughed field now, it held a male Wheatear but nothing else of note. Herring Gulls are like hens teeth on this patch but a few have been down following the tractor. There were two Grasshopper Warblers reeling from the field to the left of Long Hedge, one was finally spotted but, as usual, too far away for photos. With the other reeler downstream of the viaduct, that makes three for the patch at the moment.
Whilst really only concentrating on the fields, I still managed 8 warbler species, which is now the norm. Sedge Warblers seem to be doing well and I managed 6 Cettis Warbler between the swing bridge and the big bridge just before the locks. A Kingfisher flew downstream opposite the dredging beds.
Another 8spp warbler with a reeling Grasshopper (again). The ploughed field held a Yellow Wagtain, a male Wheatear and a probable female Whinchat (too far away for the bins) which flew off north.
There was a Grey Wagtail pair down at the swing bridge by the A49. The Grasshopper Warbler wouldnt show itself although this nearby Sedge Warbler was in fine voice.
Species seen - 44
As I was making my way to the ploughed field, fellow Dutton Locks and Marbury patcher, Vernon Lundy was on his way back from circuiting the field, after having found a male Whinchat on the fence line. The bird was still there when I arrived a few minutes later, looking resplendent in the lovely light, also two male Wheatear in the field with a Grasshopper Warbler reeling behind me. Of note :-
Buzzard (2)
Tawny Owl (1)
Kestrel (2)
Skylark (4)
Sedge Warbler (4)
Reed Warbler (2)
Grasshopper Warbler (2)
Swallow (6)
Willow Warbler (2)
Chiffchaff (13)
Cettis Warbler (6)
Blackcap (2)
Whitethroat (5)
Whinchat (1)
Stonechat (2)
Wheatear (2)
Linnet (4)
Reed Bunting (2)
The second Grasshopper Warbler was in the same area as I heard one reeling, earlier this month, below Dutton Wood.
Species seen - 52
Another 8 spp warbler day, including a reeling Grasshopper, 2 male Wheatear in the large ploughed field and a total of 41 spp seen.
Gadwall (4)
Great Crested Grebe (4)
Stock Dove (4)
Oystercatcher (1)
Lapwing (1)
Buzzard (1)
Kingfisher (2)
Raven (2)
Skylark (7)
Reed Warbler (1)
Grasshopper Warbler (2)
Barn Swallow (3)
Willow Warbler (6)
Chiffchaff (21)
Cettis Warbler (7)
Long-tailed Tit (4)
Blackcap (6)
Stonechat (2)
Reed Bunting (2)
Good to find a second reeling Grasshopper Warbler, below Dutton Wood a few hundred yards downstream of the viaduct. Hopefully a new territory but may just be moving through. First patch Reed Warbler of the year, a single bird in reeds by the river.
Species seen - 51
Gadwall (2)
Great Crested Grebe (1)
Lapwing (1)
Buzzard (1)
Skylark (5)
Willow Warbler (1)
Chiffchaff (16)
Cettis Warbler (4)
Long-tailed Tit (5)
Blackcap (1)
Stonechat (1)
Linnet (5)
Reed Bunting (2)
Species Seen - 40
Mute Swan (8)
Mandarin Duck (2)
Teal (9)
Great Crested Grebe (Pr)
Stock Dove (1)
Oystercatcher (Pr)
Little Egret (1)
Sparrowhawk (1)
Buzzard (3)
Kestrel (Pr)
Raven (2)
Skylark (3)
Cettis Warbler (2)
Redwing (6)
Fieldfare (c.125)
Stonechat (2)
Reed Bunting (1)
49 species seen
Mute Swan (8)
Goosander (3)
Oystercatcher (1)
Lapwing (c.100)
Common Gull (2)
Buzzard (3)
Raven (2)
Skylark (3)
Cettis Warbler (2)
Nuthatch (1)
Redwing (1)
Bullfinch (3)
Reed Bunting (4)
Ive been walking this patch for eight years but only really birded it properly over the last 12 months or so. I hit the 100 species mark, last week, with a dusk walk when I added Tawny Owl.
Species seen - 38
Pink-footed Goose (41 over nw)
Mute Swan (8)
Mandarin Duck (11)
Little Grebe (1)
Water Rail (1)
Eurasian Woodcock (1)
Buzzard (2)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Raven (2)
Skylark (1)
Cettis Warbler (1)
Redwing (14)
Stonechat (1)
Bullfinch (4)
Species seen - 46
Drake Goosander and a pair of Tufted Duck were unusual on patch, no doubt drawn in due to many nearby pools and meres being frozen over. Two Little Grebe were noted on the old Weaver behind Dutton Locks and the ever present eight Mute Swans down by the swing bridge over the A49, a pair plus six 2CY.
There was a large flock of winter thrushes in the first big field after the dredging beds, mainly Fieldfare and Redwing, whilst 79 Pink-footed Goose flew over heading north. Dutton Woods were quiet, although six or seven Pheasant were flushed along a narrow track that I used for the first time. A couple of Buzzard were in this general area along with at least four Raven. Singles of Bullfinch were seen in three separate locations.
Species seen - 38.
Thirty seven species seen, nothing out of the ordinary. Highlights being c.1425 Pink-footed Goose over in around six or seven skeins, the majority moving south, with just c.75 over north west. Also, as well as the local Redwing, c500 moved through north west. Fieldfare about too, with around 75 noted.
Best of the rest were 2 Raven, 2 Buzzard, Cettis Warbler, 8 Bullfinch and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
45 species seen, very similar to sightings on 26 October but with additions of Bullfinch, Yellowhammer and Gadwall. Today there were 180 Pink-footed Geese, the bulk of which were heading north west. Whilst a few Fieldfare passed overhead, Redwing were very numerous with well over 200 seen, many feeding on the numerous berry laden bushes and trees, in and around Dutton Wood.
Ive never actually ventured up into Dutton Wood previously, unsure as to whether or not it was private land. It turns out it is part of the signed Dutton Park, which is a Woodland Trust reserve. Densely packed trees and bushes of many kinds with plenty of rides and interspersed with a few small pools. Looks nailed on for Woodcock at this time of year and it should prove excellent for warblers in spring.
Pink-footed Goose (410)
Mute Swan (6)
Little Grebe (1)
Sparrowhawk (2)
Buzzard (3)
Kingfisher (1)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (2)
Kestrel (1)
Raven (2)
Skylark (2)
Cettis Warbler (1)
Long-tailed Tit (8)
Nuthatch (1)
Redwing (47
Fieldfare (19)
Stonechat (2)
Reed Bunting (2)
380 Pink-footed Geese headed south east in 5 skeins, whilst 1 skein of 30 headed north north east.
48 species seen.
For info purposes, a Bittern has been present up on the canal, immediately left of bridge 210, west of the A49. There are some decent (but rather small) areas of reed and the bird has been foraging out in the open, oblivious to one or two members of the boating community who were watching it at extremely close quarters.
Great Crested Grebe (6)
Common Gull (1)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (2)
Kestrel (1)
Barn Swallow (25)
Willow Warbler (7)
Chiffchaff (8)
Cettis Warbler (3)
Long-tailed Tit (12)
Blackcap (5)
Whitethroat (1)
Nuthatch (3)
Spotted Flycatcher (1)
Stonechat (4)
Pied Wagtail (26)
Linnet (2)
Reed Bunting (2)
The Spotted Flycatcher was two or three hundred yards away from the River in the Woodland Trusts Dutton Park. Some of the overhanging trees by the river look good for this species but I suspect this was a migrating bird. The large number of Pied Wagtail were by the A49 bridge, so I would think that they had roosted in the steelwork underneath it.
Great Crested Grebe (2)
Stock Dove (1)
Collared Dove (2)
Swift (3)
Buzzard (1)
Kestrel (2)
Green Woodpecker (1)
Reed Warbler (4)
Grasshopper Warbler (2)
Barn Swallow (38)
House Martin (2)
Chiffchaff (3)
Whitethroat (5)
Nuthatch (1)
Stonechat (1)
Linnet (7)
Reed Bunting (6)
Noticeably quieter in the bird song department with some Reed Warbler (especially) having already departed. Similarly Whitethroat, although young of the latter in evidence. Good numbers of juvenile Swallow around indicating a decent breeding season for them. Both Grasshopper Warbler reeling away, same spots as previously. A special mention for finally nailing down a Herring Gull, like hens teeth here and first eBird sighting since 2013. I actually uttered an expletive when I saw it!
44 species seen.
Stock Dove (2)
Collared Dove (3)
Buzzard (4)
Kingfisher (1)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Kestrel (2)
Skylark (4)
Sedge Warbler (4)
Reed Warbler (12)
Grasshopper Warbler (2)
Swallow (13)
House Martin (1)
Chiffchaff (12)
Cettis Warbler (4)
Blackcap (4)
Whitethroat (13)
Long-tailed Tit (8)
Nuthatch (1)
Stonechat (2)
Reed Bunting (7)
Pleased to find a second reeling Grasshopper Warbler reasonably close to the first. There is some decent habitat for them between the river and the canal when approaching the locks.
49 species seen.
Great Crested Grebe (1)
Oystercatcher (1)
Common Sandpiper (4)
Marsh Harrier (1)
Kestrel (2)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Skylark (2)
Sedge Warbler (2)
Reed Warbler (10)
Grasshopper Warbler (1)
Chiffchaff (7)
Willow Warbler (1)
Cettis Warbler (3)
Whitethroat (11)
Stonechat (1)
Reed Bunting (5)
Very fleeting view of the f-type Marsh Harrier which quickly went out of sight over the dredging beds which are raised up and partly edged with trees and bushes. They do not breed on this patch and the bird will have probably followed the Weaver south from either Frodsham or the Dee Estuary, so just passing through.
I have had a couple of recent early starts in an attempt to get Grasshopper Warbler on the list, without success. Today, however and amidst singing Sedge Warbler, Reed Bunting, Whitethroat and Skylark, two distinct reels after a wait of around half an hour.
Plenty of young birds about, passerines and on the river, the Whitethroat figure includes a family group of five.
Just over two hours around midday today, walking down the the river and Aston Flash, from Aston Village. Back by the same route. Weather sunny and fine, light winds, 18-19*c. Of note :-
Common Shelduck (2)
Northern Shoveler (4)
Gadwall (44)
Eurasian Teal (1)
Tufted Duck (14)
Little Grebe (1-2)
Northern Lapwing (7)
Common Buzzard (1)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Eurasian Skylark (3)
Barn Swallow (8)
Common Chiffchaff (2)
Whitethroat (2)
Western Yellow Wagtail (1)
Reed Bunting (2)
Impressive number of Gadwall for the size of the flash and nice to see a Yellow Wagtail in addition to the usuals. 38 species seen.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Friday 26th of May 2023 04:51:04 PM
Four and a quarter mile walk from 6.15 this morning in sunny conditions, once the early mist had cleared, 7-13*c. Acton Bridge - Dutton Locks - Bluebell Cottage - Back via Trent & Mersey Canal. Of note :-
Common Shelduck (2)
Great Crested Grebe (2)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Skylark (6)
Sedge Warbler (7)
Common Reed Warbler (12)
Barn Swallow (11)
Chiffchaff (14)
Cettis Warbler (7)
Eurasian Blackcap (5)
Common Whitethroat (12)
Grey Wagtail (1)
Eurasian Bullfinch (3)
Reed Bunting (3)
Influx of Whitethroat over the last week or so, possibly the highest number Ive had on this route. Good numbers of other warblers, including Cettis on both the canal and river. There is a Grasshopper Warbler spot near the dredging beds but there is some dredging work going on at present and it/they are difficult to pin down. Also, loads of suitable habitat for Lesser Whitethroat, theres got to be a pair somewhere. That would make it a ten warbler patch.
46 species seen.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Saturday 20th of May 2023 04:08:36 PM
Four mile walk this morning centred on Aston Flash, by the river and surrounding farmland. Other than an initial heavy shower, the weather was fine, sunny spells, cool breeze, 11-13*c. Of note :-
Mute Swan (3)
Common Shelduck (2)
Northern Shoveler (4)
Gadwall (28)
Tufted Duck (21)
Little Grebe (2)
Swift (8)
Northern Lapwing (9)
Black-tailed Godwit (94)
Little Egret (1)
Buzzard (4)
Skylark (4)
Common Whitethroat (1)
Reed Bunting (1)
Species seen 41 Reed Warbler (2) Sedge Warbler (2)
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Monday 15th of May 2023 12:36:50 PM
Walked the next section of the Weaver yesterday morning from the static caravans, just past the railway viaduct, to where the river splits on the approaches to Frodsham. Weather fine and clear, cloudy to start with, developing into sunny spells and around 14*c.
An interesting area Ive never fully explored is the flash/flooded fields below Aston Village. I was viewing from the wrong side of the river but noted that it held around 75 Black-tailed Godwit and a Curlew together with several species of duck. A Cuckoo was calling south of Aston and a Mandarin pair, on the river, with a brood of around 9 were the other main highlights. Amongst others :-
Mandarin (Pr plus 9)
Gadwall (8)
Pochard (2)
Tufted Duck (4)
Little Grebe (1)
Cuckoo (1)
Oystercatcher (3)
Lapwing (8)
Curlew (1)
Black-tailed Godwit (c.75)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Kestrel (1)
Skylark (2)
Reed Warbler (13)
Sand Martin (8)
Swallow (4)
House Martin (6)
Chiffchaff (9)
Blackcap (5)
Common Whitethroat (4)
Reed Bunting (3)
50 species seen
Oystercatcher (1)
Lapwing (1)
Whimbrel (1 over)
Common Sandpiper (2)
Buzzard (4)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (2)
Skylark (2)
Sedge Warbler (2)
Reed Warbler (11)
Sand Martin (4)
Barn Swallow (12)
Willow Warbler (8)
Chiffchaff (15)
Cettis Warbler (6)
Blackcap (3)
Garden Warbler (1)
Whitethroat (2)
Grey Wagtail (2)
Linnet (3)
Reed Bunting (3)
Nice to get eight species of Warbler. Grasshopper Warbler had been heard reeling early yesterday morning from the dredging beds but, unfortunately, this morning there were already working diggers there at 7.30 and despite spending a while listening, I was out of luck. Consolation came with the flyover Whimbrel, heading south following the course of the Weaver.
Greylag Goose (4)
Gadwall (4)
Great Crested Grebe (1)
Stock Dove (1)
Oystercatcher (1)
Lapwing (4)
Curlew (1)
Common Snipe (1)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Raven (1)
Skylark (4)
Reed Warbler (5)
Barn Swallow (9)
House Martin (3)
Willow Warbler (2)
Chiffchaff (15)
Cettis Warbler (9)
Blackcap (2)
Grey Wagtail (1)
Reed Bunting (3)
Record count, for this mini patch, of Cettis Warbler that have been steadily increasing over the last five or so years. So much so that it was flagged up on eBird as a high count.
Lapwing (8)
Buzzard (1)
Skylark (5)
Raven (1)
Reed Warbler (1)
Chiffchaff (11)
Cettis Warbler (3)
Blackcap (2)
Swallow (2)
Treecreeper (1)
38 species seen.
Mute swan - pair
Great Crested Grebe - 2
Water Rail - 1 - seen on reed edge
Lapwing - 2
Buzzard - 1
Skylark - 2 (probably 3) singing birds
Stonechat - pair
Cetti's Warbler - 1 (heard singing only)
Chiffchaff - c5 seen and/or heard singing
Bullfinch - pair
-- Edited by Steve Costa on Sunday 19th of March 2023 10:31:05 PM
Pink-footed Goose (45 over heading north)
Eurasian Teal (2)
Great Crested Grebe (1)
Skylark (2)
Cettis Warbler (3)
Long-tailed Tit (2)
Goldcrest (3)
Nuthatch (1)
Redwing (1)
Fieldfare (19)
Reed Bunting (1)
Goldeneye (1f)
Little Grebe (1)
Water Rail (1)
Cettis Warbler (1)
Skylark (5)
Kestrel (1)
Redwing (c.50)
Fieldfare (c.35)
Long-tailed Tit (8)
Linnet (15)
Reed Warbler (9)
Willow Warbler (1)
Chiffchaff (19)
Cettis Warbler (5)
Blackcap (9)
Whitethroat (8)
Swallow (2)
Skylark (2)
Reed Bunting (2)
Buzzard (1)
Kestrel (1)
Three broods of Mallard on the canal, 13, 10 & 6. A brood of 3 Coot also on the canal.
I had a message this morning to say the a Great White Egret flew downriver at Vale Royal Cut near Vale Royal Locks at c.9.15am. A cracking bird for what used to be my old patch before I was a car driver!!
and new cut merge.
Birds seen : 2 Buzzards (1 Light Phase), 1 Grey Heron, 2 Cormorants and 2 Ravens.
Cormorant (1)
Mute Swan (2)
Mallard (4)
Moorhen (8)
Great Spotted Woodpecker (6)
Nuthatch (5)
Grey Wagtail (2)
Pied Wagtail (2)
Raven (1)
Bullfinch (2)
Siskin (2)
Song Thrush (9)
Long-tailed Tit (3)
Buzzard (1)
Whooper Swan - 4 flying NW, apparently following the course of the river
Water Rail - 2 heard calling from riverside reedbeds
Cetti's Warbler - 1 singing from a reedbed
Winter thrushes - widely dispersed, mobile flock of 100+ fieldfares and redwings, with roughly equal numbers of each species. Many joined blackbirds to feed on hawthorns.
Cuckoo (1)
Reed Warbler (c.10)
Sedge Warbler (4)
Whitethroat (3)
Blackcap
Chiffchaff
Willow Warbler
Linnet
Skylark (2)
Reed Bunting (2)
Swallow
House Martin (c.15)
Decent numbers of House Martin around the bridge itself. Also nice to hear another Cuckoo. Certainly doing well around these parts this year with up to three around Marbury Patch (two lingering and displaying) and two along Whitegate Way/Shemmy Moss. Thats without venturing to Primrosehill Wood and Delamere where there are usually birds present.
Tufted Duck (1f)
Goosander (2f)
Great Crested Grebe (2)
Canada Goose (5)
Cormorant (17)
Nuthatch (4)
Jay
Great Spotted Woodpecker (1)
Fieldfare (6)
Pheasant (1)
Very little on the pool other than a female Goosander, a few Coot and Mallard.
Great crested Grebe (2)
Cormorant (6)
Grey Heron (1)
Canada Goose (2)
Gadwall (6)
Buzzard (1)
Oystercatcher (1)
Swallow (c.6)
Grey Wagtail (1)
Sedge Warbler (2)
Reed Warbler (10)
Whitethroat (2)
Blackcap (c.6)
Chiffchaff (c.12)
Raven (2)
Skylark (2)
Reed Bunting (c.6)
Lovely walk in pleasant weather. Nice to see good numbers of Reed Warbler back.
Good numbers of Swallow and House Martin around with plenty of young Swallow. Also pleased with the number of both Reed Bunting and Reed Warbler, approx a dozen of each. Also seen were Sedge Warbler, Yellowhammer, Skylark, Mute Swan, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Whitethroat and Greenfinch amongst others.
-- Edited by Mark Jarrett on Wednesday 27th of June 2018 03:13:22 PM
A couple of Kingfishers seen, one on the old river by Vale Royal Locks, the other flew across the river down by EBP. Fourteen Gadwall on the Pool, together with several Mallard, Coot, Moorhen, two Little Grebe and a single Great crested Grebe. A dozen or so Cormorant in their usual roost, plenty of common woodland species seen including Bullfinch and Jay.
Wigeon (c.12)
Gadwall (c.10)
Coot (c.75)
Moorhen (c.10)
Little Grebe (10)
Cormorant (9)
Buzzard (1)
Nothing of any real note in the woodland sections of the walk. The first five entries above were at Eaton Bank Pool adjacent to the river.
10.00-13.00
1 Common Sandpiper
1 Raven over
4 Buzzard
3 Grey Heron
2 Cormorant
2 Buzzards,1 Sparrowhawk and 4 Grey Herons. Also a Wren was seen carrying a large green caterpillar.
Coots and Moorhens still seen with tiny youngsters at various points. There were several broods of Mallard, with a female on the old river having 5 half grown ducklings.
Cormorant (c.25)
Grey Heron
Mute Swan (1)
Sparrowhawk (1)
Buzzard (2)
Lapwing (1)
Great spotted Woodpecker (1)
Pied Wagtail
Cetti's Warbler (1)
Chiffchaff (33)
Long tailed Tit
Nuthatch
Jay (pr)
Linnet
Didn't see the Cetti's Warbler but heard a burst of song from sedge by the other side of the river at Saltersford Locks.
Cormorant (15 min)
Canada Goose (c.25)
Mute Swan (2)
Little Grebe (2)
Great crested Grebe (2)
Kingfisher (2)
Siskin (c.6)
Long tailed Tit
Nuthatch
Reed Bunting
Buzzard (6)
Sparrowhawk (1)