Bird Sightings Year 2019

Friday 26th April

Blackcap (Bottom Lake)

A White Wagtail in the pasture field, and a Peregrine over the bottom lake was new today, with other sightings being 2 Lesser Whitethroats, 4 Whitethroats, 8 Chiffchaffs, 9 Blackcaps, 2 House Martins, 8 Swallows, 5 Reed Buntings, 12 Coots, 3 Moorhens, 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Herons, 6 Mallards, 7 Meadow Pipits, 1 Little Grebe, 7 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 73 Jackdaws, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Pheasants, 35 Goldfinches, 20 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 2 Yellowhammers, 9 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 7 Pied Wagtails, 4 Kestrels, 19 Linnets and 3 Skylarks

Thursday 25th April

Pied Wagtail (Pasture Field)

It was a morning of showery rain, and then some lovely afternoon sunshine. Sightings today included a Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Whitethroats, 1 Little Owl, 8 Chiffchaffs, 14 Blackcaps, 1 House Martin, 10 Swallows, 5 Reed Buntings, 12 Coots, 5 Moorhens, 1 Cormorant, 9 Mallards, 19 Black-headed Gulls, 5 Meadow Pipits, 1 Little Grebe, 7 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 66 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 2 Pheasants, 28 Goldfinches, 12 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 4 Yellowhammers, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 7 Pied Wagtails, 2 Kestrels, 6 Linnets and 9 Skylarks.

Wednesday 24th April

Lesser Whitethroat (Bottom Lake)

There was a slight change in the weather today with the odd heavy shower and more overcast, but in general it was still pretty dry. The site produced a few new spring migrants including a Lesser Whitethroat, a Garden Warbler, 2 Whitethroats and a Yellow Wagtail. Others on site included  a Red Kite heading south, 1 Little Owl, 10 Chiffchaffs, 2 Willow Warblers, 11 Blackcaps, 6 House Martins, 14 Swallows, 4 Reed Buntings, 12 Coots, 3 Moorhens, 4 Black-headed Gulls, 3 Meadow Pipits, 1 Little Grebe, 10 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 37 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 5 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 3 Pheasants, 33 Goldfinches, 18 Chaffinches, 6 Nuthatches, 2 Yellowhammers, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 4 Pied Wagtails, 4 Kestrels, 2 Sparrowhawks, 32 Linnets and 4 Skylarks.

Thursday 18th April

Tufted Ducks (Bottom Lake)

Another very pleasant day was in order with glorious sunshine throughout. It was also an interesting day with our 2nd record of Cetti's Warbler for the year at the bottom lake, also 2 Tufted Ducks, a Redwing and a Fieldfare present there. Other sightings included 10 Blackcaps, 9 Chiffchaffs, 7 Swallows, 10 Common Buzzards, 1 Little Owl, 5 Reed Buntings, 11 Coots, 6 Moorhens, 48 Black-headed Gulls, 10 Meadow Pipits, 1 Little Grebe, 9 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 53 Jackdaws, 3 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 3 Pheasants, 40 Goldfinches, 18 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 3 Yellowhammers, 6 Long-tailed Tits, 6 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 8 Pied Wagtails, 4 Kestrels, 2 Sparrowhawks, 22 Linnets and 8 Skylarks.

Tuesday 16th April

Blackcap (Bottom Lake)

It was another very pleasant day with sunshine throughout, the Mallard brood was still showing on the bottom lake, and there was an increase of warblers which included 9 Blackcaps, 11 Chiffchaffs and 2 Willow Warblers. Others noted were 9 Swallows, 17 Common Buzzards, 1 Little Owl, 3 Reed Buntings, 11 Coots, 6 Moorhens, 33 Black-headed Gulls, 9 Meadow Pipits, 1 Little Grebe, 8 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 5 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 44 Jackdaws, 3 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 5 Jays, 1 Pheasant, 38 Goldfinches, 15 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 2 Yellowhammers, 6 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 6 Pied Wagtails, 4 Kestrels, 2 Sparrowhawks, 19 Linnets and 2 Skylarks.

Monday 15th April

Mallards (Bottom Lake)

It was a very pleasant day with sunshine pretty much throughout, although we could really do with getting rid of this spring North Easterly wind. However the first Mallard brood was showing on the bottom lake but there was no sign of the Jack Snipe. A scattering of warblers were in the woodland area including a Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaffs and 3 Blackcaps. Other sightings included 6 Swallows, 8 Common Buzzards, 3 Reed Buntings, 11 Coots, 5 Moorhens, 17 Black-headed Gulls, 8 Meadow Pipits, 1 Little Grebe, 6 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 19 Jackdaws, 6 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 18 Goldfinches, 12 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 8 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Pied Wagtails, 4 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 9 Linnets and 2 Skylarks.

Friday 12th April

Grey Wagtail (Top Lake)

Apart from an increase this morning of 16 Swallows and a new White Wagtail it was a pretty quiet affair today, but at least the Jack Snipe remained faithful to the bottom lake. Other sightings were 6 Blackcaps. 7 Chiffchaffs, 10 Common Buzzards, 3 Reed Buntings, 11 Coots, 4 Moorhens, 6 Mallards, 8 Black-headed Gulls, 9 Meadow Pipits, 2 Bullfinches, 1 Little Grebe, 8 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 25 Jackdaws, 3 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 21 Goldfinches, 9 Chaffinches, 4 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Pied Wagtails, 2 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Grey Heron, 13 Linnets and 7 Skylarks. Also of big interest to the site as they are very rare here now, was of a Barn Owl feather which was recovered from the Walled garden this morning.

Thursday 11th April

Blue Tit (Pasture Field)

Fresh North Easterly winds in spring are certainly not the best for migration, and today inland it was a little bit more on the quiet side. However the Jack Snipe remained at the bottom lake, and there was also a scattering of warblers including several Blackcaps and Chiffchaffs and a single Willow Warbler. Another interesting record was of 44 Skylarks heading south. Other sightings included 6 Swallows, 12 Common Buzzards, 4 Reed Buntings, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 12 Mallards,11 Black-headed Gulls, 18 Meadow Pipits, 2 Bullfinches, 1 Little Grebe, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 28 Jackdaws, 14 Rooks, 4 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 10 Goldfinches, 10 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 6 Pied Wagtails, 3 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Grey Heron, 17 Linnets and 2 Skylarks.

Wednesday 10th April

Tufted Duck (Bottom Lake)

There was a fresh north easterly wind today but at least it remained dry, bird wise there was a few bits around with one of the Tufted Ducks still present from yesterday, and 2 new Willow Warblers at the bottom lake. Other sightings included a Jack Snipe, 10 Chiffchaffs, 11 Blackcaps, 2 Swallows, 10 Common Buzzards, 2 Reed Buntings, 12 Coots, 4 Moorhens, 1 Cormorant heading east, 2 Mallards, 3 Mediterranean Gulls, 27 Black-headed Gulls, 8 Meadow Pipits, 3 Bullfinches, 1 Little Grebe, 11 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 43 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 14 Goldfinches, 6 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Pied Wagtails, 3 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Grey Heron, 3 Yellowhammers, 10 Linnets and 2 Skylarks.

Tuesday 9th April

Chiffchaff (Bottom Lake)

It was another difficult morning with thick fog and then heavy showers which lasted until lunchtime, however it did produce a nice selection of birds including a cracking male Ring Ouzel which headed west over the bottom lake, also a Sand Martin, a Jack Snipe, 17 Chiffchaffs, 17 Blackcaps, 4 Tufted Ducks, 6 Redwings, 3 Swallows, 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Reed Buntings, 10 Coots, 6 Moorhens, 6 Cormorants heading east, 6 Mallard, 19 Mediterranean Gulls, 81 Black-headed Gulls, 19 Meadow Pipits, 2 Bullfinches, 1 Little Grebe, 9 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 9 Coal Tits, 61 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 4 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 34 Goldfinches, 9 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 5 Pied Wagtails, 3 Kestrels, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Yellowhammers, 7 Linnets and 6 Skylarks.

Monday 8th April

Raven (Bottom Lake)

This morning was pretty miserable with long spells of fog and heavy cloud, but asides from that it was another good day for birds with only our 3rd record for the site of Bearded Tit which headed west over the bottom lake, there was also our first House Martin of the year, and an increase of Blackcaps resulting in several birds. Other sightings included  5 Swallows,13 Chiffchaffs, 3 Redwings, 3 Common Buzzards, 3 Reed Buntings, 8 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 2 Cormorants, 1 Mallard, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 7 Black-headed Gulls, 7 Meadow Pipits, 3 Bullfinches, 1 Little Grebe, 10 Goldcrests, 5 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 8 Coal Tits, 70 Jackdaws, 23 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 25 Goldfinches, 7 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Pied Wagtails, 4 Kestrels, and 6 Skylarks.

Friday 5th April

Coal Tit (Bottom Lake)

Today was lovely with some long spells of sunshine and a very light easterly wind. Sightings included 3 Swallows, a Tufted Duck, 2 Blackcaps, 10 Chiffchaffs, 12 Common Buzzards, 1 Peregrine, 5 Reed Buntings, 13 Coots, 7 Moorhens, 3 Cormorants, 10 Mallards, 106 Black-headed Gulls, 5 Common Gulls, 27 Meadow Pipits, 3 Yellowhammers, 3 Pheasants, 1 Little Grebe, 9 Goldcrests, 5 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 7 Coal Tits, 82 Jackdaws, 20 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 36 Goldfinches, 28 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 6 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 4 Pied Wagtails, 7 Mistle Thrushes, 3 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk and 6 Skylarks.

Thursday 4th April

Hey Mrs Cormorant beat this wing display

Yeh ok show off just wait till next time

The day started off pretty miserable but soon cleared up to leave a mainly sunny day. The Jack Snipe remained at the bottom lake as did the Willow Warbler, a Tufted Duck and 2 Blackcaps. Other sightings included 11 Chiffchaffs, 2 Swallows, 10 Common Buzzards, 5 Reed Buntings, 13 Coots, 7 Moorhens, 6 Cormorants, 10 Mallards, 39 Black-headed Gulls, 5 Common Gulls, 18 Meadow Pipits, 2 Yellowhammers, 5 Pheasants, 1 Little Grebe, 12 Goldcrests, 5 Treecreepers, 6 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 66 Jackdaws, 13 Rooks, 5 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 30 Goldfinches, 30 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 8 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Pied Wagtails, 7 Mistle Thrushes, 3 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk and 3 Skylarks.

Wednesday 3rd April

Long-tailed Tit (Bottom Lake)

It was a mixed day of heavy cloud, rain and some sunny spells. Sightings today included a Jack Snipe at the bottom lake, a Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcaps, 10 Chiffchaffs, 2 Swallows, 1 White Wagtail, 6 Common Buzzards, 6 Reed Buntings, 3 Redpolls, 12 Coots, 6 Moorhens, 4 Cormorants, 6 Mallards, 14 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, 11 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Kingfisher, 9 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Redwings, 3 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 112 Jackdaws, 8 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 25 Goldfinches, 19 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 5 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 4 Pied Wagtails, 6 Mistle Thrushes, 4 Kestrels and 4 Skylarks.

Tuesday 2nd April

Willow Warbler (Bottom Lake)

Although today's weather of mainly heavy cloud and thick fog was pretty miserable it did actually produce a scattering of spring migrants. The first Willow Warbler was present at the bottom lake, along with 2 Sand Martins, 2 Blackcaps, 11 Chiffchaffs and 4 Swallows. Other sightings included 10 Common Buzzards, 4 Reed Buntings, 13 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 2 Cormorants, 8 Mallards, 54 Black-headed Gulls, 6 Common Gulls, 2 Mediterranean Gulls, 4 Meadow Pipits, 4 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 12 Goldcrests, 5 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 48 Jackdaws, 30 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 17 Goldfinches, 15 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 7 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 3 Pied Wagtails, 3 Mistle Thrushes, 2 Kestrels and 2 Skylarks. 

Monday 1st April

Little Owl (Pasture Field)

Today was lovely with some long spells of sunshine, but that certainly looks to change within the next few days. The Cetti's Warbler remained at the bottom lake which also produced 3 Swallows heading south, 8 Chiffchaffs, and 2 Blackcaps. Other sightings included a Water Rail, 1 Little Owl, 1 Yellowhammer, 11 Common Buzzards, 4 Reed Buntings, 13 Coots, 4 Moorhens, 4 Cormorants, 7 Mallards, 10 Black-headed Gulls, 7 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 8 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 70 Jackdaws, 19 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 23 Goldfinches, 10 Chaffinches, 4 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 4 Pied Wagtails, 3 Mistle Thrushes, 5 Kestrels and 2 Skylarks. 

Friday 29th March

Record shot of this very elusive Cetti's Warbler at the Bottom Lake

The end of the week finished just as it started on a high, with another very good bird for the site. The bottom lake produced only our 2nd ever record of Cetti's Warbler which was singing away on and off during the day for long periods, but unfortunately it was very elusive as they generally can tend to be. It has certainly been a Great week with 2 new birds also recorded on site, and the earliest record for Swallow. Other sightings included a Water Rail, 2 Blackcaps, 9 Chiffchaffs, 1 Little Owl, 1 Yellowhammer, 9 Common Buzzards, 4 Reed Buntings, 2 Redwings, 12 Coots, 5 Moorhens, 2 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 14 Mallards, 33 Black-headed Gulls, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 10 Meadow Pipits, 3 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 10 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 8 Coal Tits, 59 Jackdaws, 8 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 40 Goldfinches, 27 Chaffinches, 4 Nuthatches, 7 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 4 Pied Wagtail, 12 Mistle Thrushes, 3 Kestrels and 5 Skylarks. 

Thursday 28th March

Adult and Juvenile Coot (Bottom Lake)

Juvenile Coot (1 of 8 at the Bottom Lake)

The first Swallow was seen this afternoon at the bottom lake, which is also the earliest record for the site, and at least 8 juvenile Coots were present being the first day out of their nest. Other sightings included a Woodcock, a Water Rail, 2 Blackcaps, 8 Chiffchaffs, 4 Common Buzzards, 4 Reed Buntings, 8 Redwings, 1 Brambling, a further 6 Coots (All adults), 7 Moorhens, 3 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 8 Mallards, 18 Black-headed Gulls, 12 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 13 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 80 Jackdaws, 3 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 28 Goldfinches, 11 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 5 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 1 Pied Wagtail, 8 Mistle Thrushes, 3 Kestrels and 2 Skylarks. 

Wednesday 27th March

Red Kite (1 of 4 over the Bottom Lake)

This morning was lovely with some lengthy spells of sunshine, but the afternoon was a bit on the cloudy side, bird wise we had a very good day with another new species for the site, along with a total of 6 different species of raptor. I will start with the new bird which was a nice surprise when a male Goosander was seen heading south over the bottom lake. For the raptors it was another good day with a total of 4 Red Kites, 1 Peregrine, 10 Common Buzzards, 1 Marsh Harrier heading west, 2 Sparrowhawks and 3 Kestrels. Others noted were 7 Common Crossbills, 1 White Wagtail, 8 Chiffchaffs, 1 Blackcap, 1 Stonechat, 1 Little Owl, 41 Redwings, 2 Redpolls, 2 Reed Buntings, 14 Coots, 9 Moorhens, 4 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 8 Mallards, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 10 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, 1 Siskin,  9 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 13 Goldcrests, 5 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 8 Coal Tits, 66 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 4 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 32 Goldfinches, 15 Chaffinches, 4 Nuthatches, 3 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 1 Pied Wagtail, 8 Mistle Thrushes and 2 Skylarks. 

Tuesday 26th March

White Wagtail (Pasture Field)

The first Blackcap of the year was singing away at the bottom lake where a Red Kite was also seen heading south. A White Wagtail was present in the pasture field by the main house and a total of 20 Common Buzzards were noted. Other sightings included 8 Chiffchaffs, 4 Reed Buntings, 10 Coots, 7 Moorhens, 2 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 6 Mallards, 5 Mediterranean Gulls, 19 Black-headed Gulls, 4 Common Gulls, 1 Siskin,  12 Meadow Pipits, 4 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 15 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 8 Coal Tits, 49 Jackdaws, 19 Rooks, 4 Grey Wagtails, 6 Jays, 51 Goldfinches, 19 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 3 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Pied Wagtail, 6 Mistle Thrushes and 2 Skylarks.

Monday 25th March

BLACK KITE (Bottom Lake) 

After a stunning Red Kite flew very low over my car at Wingham this morning, and with yesterday's raptors ie Buzzards, Red Kites etc in Kent I was in high hopes that something may just turn up on site today, and amazingly so it did. A wander down to the bottom lake around 9am, produced 2 Red Kites that were very high up heading west, but the best was to follow with a **BLACK KITE** following suite just behind heading in the same direction, also very high up, but at least a record photo shot was obtained. A cracking Rare bird for the site and our 1st ever recorded here. Also today our First White Wagtail of the year. Other sightings included 8 Chiffchaffs, 1 Woodcock, 9 Common Buzzards 2 Reed Buntings, a Water Rail, 10 Coots, 11 Moorhens, 2 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Mallards, 2 Mediterranean Gulls, 26 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Common Gulls, 2 Redwings, 1 Siskin,  20 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 11 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 8 Coal Tits, 89 Jackdaws, 5 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 40 Goldfinches, 2 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 10 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 5 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 3 Kestrels, 1 Pied Wagtail, 9 Mistle Thrushes and 6 Skylarks.

Thursday 21st March

Chiffchaff (Bottom Lake)

There was a nice little overnight arrival of 15 Chiffchaffs with 12 of these at the bottom lake. Others noted were 9 Common Buzzards 5 Reed Buntings, a Water Rail, 10 Coots, 9 Moorhens, 4 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 14 Mallards, 20 Mediterranean Gulls, 80 Black-headed Gulls, 7 Common Gulls, 13 Redwings, 7 Siskins, 2 Redpolls, 10 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 17 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 56 Jackdaws, 3 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 39 Goldfinches, 23 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 6 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Kestrels, 6 Pied Wagtails, 6 Mistle Thrushes and 2 Skylarks.

Wednesday 20th March

Coal Tit (Top Lake)

Today was rather overcast with the odd glimpse of sunshine. Highlight this morning was this rather obliging Coal Tit which to say the least this species has been rather difficult to photograph in the past. Bird wise it was a fairly good day with several Siskins heading west, along with 4 Redpolls and 20 Redwings. Others noted were 12 Common Buzzards 4 Reed Buntings, a Water Rail, 6 Chiffchaffs, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 6 Cormorants, 3 Grey Herons, 10 Mallards, 33 Mediterranean Gulls, 200 Black-headed Gulls, 18 Common Gulls, 28 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 12 Goldcrests, 7 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 90 Jackdaws, 3 Rooks, 5 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 20 Goldfinches, 9 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Kestrels, 4 Pied Wagtails, 8 Mistle Thrushes and 2 Skylarks.

Monday 18th March

Male Reed Bunting (Bottom Lake)

The day started off with some lovely sunny spells, but soon changed in the afternoon with some rather heavy showers. It was an interesting day with a good movement of 22 Common Buzzards heading west between 9-10am, with a further 6 noted on site. The bottom lake was also busy with 5 Reed Buntings, a Water Rail, 6 Chiffchaffs, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 8 Cormorants heading west, 1 Grey Heron and 15 Mallards. Others noted were 3 Redwings, 2 Fieldfares, 26 Mediterranean Gulls, 112 Black-headed Gulls, 47 Common Gulls, 2 Siskins, 2 Redpolls, 20 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 2 Little Grebes, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 77 Jackdaws, 5 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 19 Goldfinches, 19 Chaffinches, 4 Nuthatches, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Kestrels, 2 Pied Wagtails, 3 Mistle Thrushes and 8 Skylarks.

Wednesday 13th March

Female Tufted Duck (Bottom Lake)

Another cold day with strong winds and a the odd showers. Sightings today included 11 Mediterranean Gulls, 60 Black-headed Gulls, 70 Common Gulls, 6 Siskins, 3 Redpolls, 5 Chiffchaffs, 2 Tufted Ducks, 1 Water Rail, 30 Meadow Pipits, 2 Pheasants, 4 Common Buzzards, 7 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 15 Mallards, 1 Cormorant, 2 Little Grebes, 13 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 110 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Jays, 50 Goldfinches, 11 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 3 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 3 Kestrels, 6 Pied Wagtails, 2 Pheasants, 2 Yellowhammers, 3 Mistle Thrushes and 8 Skylarks.

Tuesday 12th March

Great Tit (Top Lake)

Another cold day and once again with a couple of heavy showers to go with it. Sightings today included 19 Mediterranean Gulls, 130 Black-headed Gulls, 80 Common Gulls, 11 Siskins, 3 Redpolls, 4 Chiffchaffs, 1 Tufted Duck, 36 Meadow Pipits, 10 Common Buzzards, 9 Coots, 12 Moorhens, 10 Mallards, 1 Cormorant heading west, 2 Little Grebes, 14 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 140 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 1 Grey Heron, 5 Jays, 30 Goldfinches, 41 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 13 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 3 Kestrels, 4 Pied Wagtails, 2 Pheasants, 2 Yellowhammers, 18 Great Tits, 3 Mistle Thrushes, 3 Yellowhammers, 2 Pheasants and 2 Skylarks.

Monday 11th March

Cormorant (Bottom Lake)

Another cold day with a couple of heavy showers to go with it, but it did produce a couple of good site records which included a Little Owl which was heard by the bottom lake, and a Tawny Owl calling up at the top lake. It was also another good day for gulls on the move including 50 Mediterranean Gulls, 189 Black-headed Gulls and 145 Common Gulls, with others being 2 Common Crossbills heading east, 11 Siskins, 3 Redpolls, 5 Chiffchaffs, 2 Tufted Ducks, 1 Water Rail, 22 Meadow Pipits, 8 Common Buzzards, 7 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 19 Mallards, 1 Cormorant heading east, 2 Little Grebes, 11 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 90 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Jays, 17 Goldfinches, 36 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 3 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 3 Kestrels, 6 Pied Wagtails, 2 Pheasants, 2 Yellowhammers, 3 Mistle Thrushes and 8 Skylarks.

Friday 8th March

Male Tufted Duck (Bottom Lake)

A change in weather today, although it was pretty much dry it was certainly on the cold side. Sightings today included a good movement of gulls including 125 Mediterranean Gulls, 270 Black-headed Gulls and 213 Common Gulls, with others being 4 Common Crossbills heading east, 2 Siskins, 2 Redpolls, 4 Chiffchaffs, 2 Tufted Ducks, 2 Water Rails, 45 Meadow Pipits, 6 Common Buzzards, 8 Coots, 12 Moorhens, 14 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 8 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 170 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Jays, 44 Goldfinches, 18 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 13 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 4 Kestrels, 4 Pied Wagtails, 5 Pheasants, 2 Yellowhammers, 9 Mistle Thrushes and 4 Skylarks.

Thursday 7th March

Chiffchaff (Bottom Lake)

Once again it was a pleasant day with some long spells of sunshine, bird wise it was also pretty good with a few bits on the move. Today's sightings included 13 Mediterranean Gulls, 2 Common Crossbills heading west, 8 Siskins, 3 Redpolls, 6 Chiffchaffs, 2 Tufted Ducks, 2 Water Rails, 60 Meadow Pipits, 11 Common Buzzards, 8 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 11 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 10 Goldcrests, 7 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 7 Coal Tits, 200 Jackdaws, 11 Rooks, 4 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 63 Goldfinches, 15 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 10 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 83 Black-headed Gulls, 127 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 4 Pied Wagtails, 3 Pheasants, 2 Yellowhammers, 8 Mistle Thrushes and 2 Skylarks.

Tuesday 5th March

Common Buzzards (Pasture Fields)

Today was nice with some good spells of sunshine and a light breeze. On site was a total of 33 Mediterranean Gulls, also 4 Chiffchaffs, 2 Tufted Ducks, a Water Rail, 41 Meadow Pipits, 10 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 9 Moorhens, 23 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 13 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 157 Jackdaws, 11 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 40 Goldfinches, 15 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 17 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 240 Black-headed Gulls, 66 Common Gulls 2 Kestrels, 4 Pied Wagtails, 7 Pheasants and 2 Skylarks.

Monday 4th March

Tufted Ducks (Bottom Lake)

Best bird today was a Merlin which headed west over the bottom lake this morning. It was another pretty miserable day with light rain on and off and very overcast conditions. The rest of the highlights included 4 Chiffchaffs, 2 Tufted Ducks, a Water Rail, a total of 112 Mediterranean Gulls, 18 Meadow Pipits, 7 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 9 Moorhens, 18 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 9 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 6 Coal Tits, 48 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 1 Jay, 24 Goldfinches, 7 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 350 Black-headed Gulls, 30 Common Gulls 2 Kestrels, 3 Pied Wagtails, and 2 Skylarks.

Friday 1st March

Chaffinch (Bottom Lake)

It was, in general, a pretty miserable day with light rain on and off and very overcast however there was still a nice selection of birds on site. Today's sightings included a Water Rail still present at the bottom lake, also a Stonechat, a singing Chiffchaff which was again nice to hear, a total of 33 Mediterranean Gulls, 44 Meadow Pipits, 7 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 11 Moorhens, 18 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 5 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 80 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 3 Siskins, 7 Redpolls, 19 Goldfinches, 19 Chaffinches, 1 Nuthatch, 4 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 170 Black-headed Gulls, a very good total of 254 Common Gulls mainly heading west, 4 Kestrels, 2 Reed Buntings, 7 Pied Wagtails, 1 Pheasant, and 2 Skylarks.

Thursday 28th February

Treecreeper (Bottom Lake)

As predicted the weather certainly did change today with light rain on and off, and the odd glimpse of sunshine, but at least it was fairly mild. Today's sightings included a Water Rail at the bottom lake, and a singing Chiffchaff which was nice to hear. Others noted were 62 Mediterranean Gulls, 33 Meadow Pipits, 4 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 5 Moorhens, 10 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 13 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 66 Jackdaws, 5 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 8 Siskins, 2 Redpolls, 28 Goldfinches, 8 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 90 Black-headed Gulls, 44 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 2 Reed Buntings, 4 Pied Wagtails, 6 Pheasants, and 4 Skylarks.

Wednesday 27th February

Meadow Pipit (Pasture Field)

The weather is set to change tomorrow so this fine spell of weather may soon come to an end, but the last few days of February have certainly been glorious. Today's sightings included another Crossbill heading west, also 2 Mediterranean Gulls, 6 Meadow Pipits, 4 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 7 Moorhens, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 7 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 73 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 3 Siskins, 3 Redpolls, 11 Goldfinches, 15 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 3 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 11 Black-headed Gulls, 3 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels,  2 Reed Buntings, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Pied Wagtails, 2 Pheasants, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 1 Yellowhammer.

Tuesday 26th February

Dunnock in Spring-like song (Bottom Lake)

Yet another beautiful February day, and some beautiful bird songs taking place, sightings  included 1 Crossbill heading south, 7 Mediterranean Gulls, 15 Meadow Pipits, 7 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 7 Moorhens, 9 Mallards, 3 Little Grebes, 15 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 116 Jackdaws, 7 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 6 Jays, 9 Siskins, 20 Goldfinches, 10 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 13 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 85 Black-headed Gulls, 6 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 2 Linnets,  2 Reed Buntings, 1 Grey Heron, 24 Magpies, 4 Pied Wagtails, 2 Pheasants and 1 Yellowhammer.

Monday 25th February

Grey Heron (Pasture Field)

Yet another beautiful February day, sightings across the site included 47 Mediterranean Gulls, 11 Meadow Pipits, 5 Common Buzzards, 10 Coots, 7 Moorhens, 6 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 99 Jackdaws, 2 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 3 Siskins, 51 Goldfinches, 7 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 5 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 44 Black-headed Gulls, 48 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 2 Linnets,  2 Reed Buntings, 1 Grey Heron, 20 Magpies, 3 Pied Wagtails, 3 Pheasants and 3 Yellowhammers.

Friday 22nd February


Another beautiful day, sightings included 130 Mediterranean Gulls, 16 Meadow Pipits,  5 Common Buzzards, 1 Teal, 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 14 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 11 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 8 Coal Tits, 200 Jackdaws, 18 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 33 Goldfinches, 25 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 11 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 70 Black-headed Gulls, 40 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 9 Linnets,  2 Reed Buntings, 1 Grey Heron, 16 Magpies and 2 Yellowhammers.

Thursday 21st February


It was another very nice day with sightings being 85 Mediterranean Gulls, 31 Meadow Pipits, 5 Common Buzzards, 1 Teal, 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 14 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 11 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 7 Coal Tits, 136 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 25 Goldfinches, 18 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 16 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 54 Black-headed Gulls, 56 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 4 Linnets,  2 Reed Buntings, 1 Grey Heron, 30 Magpies and 2 Yellowhammers.

Wednesday 20th February

Headless Grey Heron (Bottom Lake)

It was another very nice day with some good spells of sunshine, although it was a little bit on the chilly side. Sightings today included a very good westerly movement of 220 Mediterranean Gulls and 81 Meadow Pipits which were mainly heading in the same direction. Others on site were 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Teal, 10 Coots, 14 Moorhens, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 19 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 250 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 33 Goldfinches, 33 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 11 Black-headed Gulls, 18 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 3 Stock Doves, 4 Linnets, 2 Pheasants, 2 Reed Buntings, 1 Grey Heron, 19 Magpies and 2 Yellowhammers.

Friday 15th February

Coot (Bottom Lake, on the footpath this time)

The week finished off how it started with some lovely sunny spells of sunshine and a very light wind. It has certainly felt like spring this week and the birds have certainly enjoyed it with some of the species beginning to pair up. Sightings today included 2 Stonechats, 1 Siskin, 9 Common Buzzards 46 Meadow Pipits, 2 Chiffchaffs, 1 Teal, 40 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 12 Moorhens, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 190 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 3 Bullfinches, 20 Goldfinches, 26 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 10 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 32 Black-headed Gulls, 18 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 10 Stock Doves, 4 Linnets, 2 Pheasants, 2 Reed Buntings and 1 Yellowhammer.

Thursday 14th February

Mallards (Pasture Field)

Sightings on another lovely sunny day was 2 Stonechats, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Siskins, 2 Redpolls, 9 Common Buzzards 29 Meadow Pipits, 3 Chiffchaffs, 1 Teal, 23 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 14 Moorhens, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 13 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 233 Jackdaws, 25 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Jays, 3 Bullfinches, 49 Goldfinches, 41 Chaffinches, 5 Nuthatches, 21 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 116 Black-headed Gulls, 42 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 19 Stock Doves, 4 Linnets, 4 Pheasants and 1 Yellowhammer.

Wednesday 13th February

Little Grebe (Bottom Lake)

It was another lovely day with plenty of sunshine and a very light wind. On site today was 2 Stonechats, 7 Common Buzzards passing through, also another slight movement of 34 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 1 Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Teal, 55 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 13 Moorhens, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 11 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 180 Jackdaws, 27 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 3 Bullfinches, 29 Goldfinches, 25 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 13 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 46 Black-headed Gulls, 12 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 9 Stock Doves, 11 Pheasants and 9 Magpies.

Tuesday 12th February

Great Tit (Top Lake)

Wow, 2 days in a row of lovely spring-like weather with some lovely sunny spells and pretty mild temperatures. Sightings today included a total of 8 Common Buzzards passing through, also another slight movement of 40 Meadow Pipits and 3 Skylarks, with others being a Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Teal, 3 Redwings, 40 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 4 Mallards, 3 Little Grebes, 7 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers

Monday 11th February

Common Buzzard (Bottom Lake)

At long last a decent day with some lengthy spells of sunshine and light winds. It was an interesting day in this spring-like weather with a total of 13 Common Buzzards passing through the site, also a movement of 66 Meadow Pipits and 8 Skylarks. Other sightings included a Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Teal, 6 Redwings, 14 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 9 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 9 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 2 Coal Tits, 145 Jackdaws, 5 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 5 Pied Wagtails, 1 Reed Bunting, 4 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 60 Goldfinches, 13 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 19 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 33 Black-headed Gulls, 4 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 9 Stock Doves and 1 Yellowhammer.

Friday 8th February

Tufted Ducks (Bottom Lake)

What a difference to yesterday's weather with heavy rain on and off and strong winds. Not surprisingly it was a bit difficult out there today but it did produce 3 Tufted Ducks at the bottom lake, and a Water Rail which as ever put in a brief appearance. The Kingfisher was also seen at the top lake for its 4th day in a row. Others on site included a Chiffchaff, 1 Teal, 6 Redwings, 9 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 6 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 12 Starlings, 11 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 5 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 4 Goldcrests, 2 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 2 Coal Tits, 370 Jackdaws, 15 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Pied Wagtails, 1 Reed Bunting, 2 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 17 Goldfinches, 9 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 9 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 10 Black-headed Gulls, 51 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 9 Stock Doves and 1 Yellowhammer. 

Thursday 7th February

Female Teal (Bottom Lake)

At long last a decent day with some longKingfisher showing again at the top lake, also 2 Chiffchaffs, 2 Water Rails, 1 Teal, 46 Redwings, 66 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 11 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Starlings, 33 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 29 Meadow Pipits, 3 Skylarks, 11 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 9 Coal Tits, 323 Jackdaws, 20 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Pied Wagtails, 1 Reed Bunting, 4 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 57 Goldfinches, 24 Chaffinches, 3 Nuthatches, 25 Long-tailed Tits, 6 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 48 Black-headed Gulls, 32 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Pheasant, 9 Stock Doves and 1 Yellowhammer. 

Wednesday 6th February

Coot

It was a very misty day and pretty cold to go with it, bird-wise it was pretty good  considering the weather with The Kingfisher present again at the top lake this afternoon, also 2 Chiffchaffs, 2 Water Rails, 1 Teal, 26 Redwings, 37 Fieldfares, 81 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 13 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Starlings, 26 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 17 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 14 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 9 Coal Tits, 300 Jackdaws, 20 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Pied Wagtails, 1 Reed Bunting

Tuesday 5th February

Very quick and distant photo shot of a Kingfisher at the Top Lake

Today was pretty much dry apart from some thick mist that settled in the afternoon. Sightings today included a Kingfisher at the top lake, which posed ever so briefly before heading off over the nearby pasture field, but nevertheless, although it was a bit distant it was still a very good photographic record for this somewhat difficult species. Others noted was a singing Chiffchaff still at the bottom lake, also 2 Water Rails, a Jack Snipe, 1 Teal, 6 Redwings, a nice flock of 177 Fieldfares, 136 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 44 Starlings, 11 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 29 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 10 Goldcrests, 5 Treecreepers

Monday 4th February

Bullfinch (Bottom Lake)

It was mostly a day of very heavy rain, but it still produced a nice selection of birds. Today's sightings included a singing Chiffchaff at the bottom lake, also 2 Water Rails, a Jack Snipe, 1 Teal, 6 Redwings, 84 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 12 Starlings, 23 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 23 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 6 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 314 Jackdaws, 40 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 25 Goldfinches, 8 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 6 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 14 Black-headed Gulls, 8 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels, 1 Pheasant and 4 Stock Doves.

Thursday 31st January

Coots on the frozen bottom lake. Excuse me but what exactly are we supposed to eat now!! 

Coots very unimpressed having to stand on ice within this frozen lake

Today was bitterly cold, and the birds on the bottom lake certainly suffered a bit. Today's sightings included 2 Bramblings which past overhead, also present was a Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 23 RedwingsMediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 49 Starlings, 2 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 4 Meadow Pipits, 4 Skylarks, 13 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 113 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 71 Goldfinches, 28 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 9 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 140 Black-headed Gulls, 8 Common Gulls, 2 Kestrels and 11 Stock Doves.

Wednesday 30th January

Once again it was very cold, sightings today included a Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 19 Redwings, 4 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 33 Starlings, 2 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 14 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 10 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 224 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 4 Grey Wagtails, 4 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 80 Goldfinches, 31 Chaffinches, 2 Nuthatches, 16 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 68 Black-headed Gulls, 4 Kestrels and 20 Stock Doves.

Tuesday 29th January

Tufted Duck (Bottom Lake)

It was another very cold day, On site was a Tufted Duck on the bottom lake, also another slight movement of Common Buzzards involving 5 birds. Other sightings included a Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 26 Redwings, 9 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 12 Moorhens, 18 Starlings, 8 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 20 Meadow Pipits, 14 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 4 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 187 Jackdaws, 8 Rooks, 2 Grey Wagtails, 3 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 39 Goldfinches, 19 Chaffinches,  2 Nuthatches, 10 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 14 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Kestrels and 20 Stock Doves.

Monday 28th January

Song Thrush (Pasture Field)

Today was very cold but at leastwas some nice spells of sunshine. On site was a good number of 23 Song Thrushes, also a slight movement of Common Buzzards involving several birds. Other sightings included a Water Rail, 1 Chiffchaff, 16 Redwings, 2 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 16 Moorhens, 44 Starlings, 4 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 8 Meadow Pipits, 9 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 216 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 6 Jays, 2 Bullfinches, 136 Goldfinches, 8 Chaffinches,  2 Nuthatches, 13 Long-tailed Tits, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 36 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Kestrels and 6 Stock Doves.

Friday 25th January

Robin (Bottom Lake)

It was a horrible day with heavy showers on and off. Sightings included a Woodcock,  1 Chiffchaff, 46 Redwings, 3 Mediterranean Gulls,

Thursday 24th January

Black-headed Gull Dancing On Ice (Bottom Lake)

There was a little bit of sunshine today but mainly it was overcast with the odd heavy snow shower, but with these current cold conditions it produced a few birds on the move.  Sightings today included a Jack Snipe which was at the bottom lake, also 3 Woodcocks  Water Rail. Other sightings included 1 Chiffchaff, 24 Redwings, 11 Mediterranean Gulls, 8 Coots, 11 Moorhens, 25 Starlings, 3 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 17 Meadow Pipits, 10 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 3 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 100 Jackdaws, 26 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 13 Pied Wagtails, 2Jays, 1 Reed Bunting, 2 Bullfinches, 75 Goldfinches, 32 Chaffinches, 3 Common Gulls, 2 Nuthatches, 8 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 22 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Kestrels and 18 Stock Doves.

Monday 21st January

Grey Heron (Pasture Field)

Although there was some sunshine today it was still bitterly cold with a heavy frost early morning. Sightings today included a Woodcock, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Water Rail, 49 Redwings, 48 Mediterranean Gulls,

Friday 18th January

Bullfinch (Bottom Lake)

Once again it was a very cold day, but this time without any sleet or snow showers. Sightings today included 81 Redwings, 2 Chiffchaffs, 37 Mediterranean Gulls,

Thursday 17th January

Mallards (Top Lake)

Well it was certainly a day of various weather with a sleet shower for about 30 minutes, snow for about 10 minutes, sunshine, the odd spot of rain and also very cold. Sightings today included 18 Fieldfares, 44 Redwings, 2 Chiffchaffs, 80 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 15 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 29 Starlings, 8 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 5 Meadow Pipits, 15 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 4 Coal Tits, 140 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 4 Pied Wagtails, 3 Jays, 1  Reed Bunting, 2 Collard Doves, 1 Bullfinch, 43 Goldfinches, 30 Chaffinches, 11 Common Gulls, 2 Nuthatches, 19 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Kestrels and 30 Stock Doves. 

Tuesday 15th January

Kestrel (Top Lake)

Sightings today on which turned to be another cold day was 3 Fieldfares, 61 Redwings, 2 Chiffchaffs, 39 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 14 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 20 Starlings, 8 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 9 Meadow Pipits, 15 Goldcrests, 6 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 7 Coal Tits, 180 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 6 Pied Wagtails, 6 Jays, 1 Bullfinch, 60 Goldfinches, 25 Chaffinches, 9 Common Gulls, 2 Nuthatches, 8 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks

Monday 14th January

Coots (Bottom Lake)

Today produced a slight movement of thrushes which included 30 Fieldfares, 33 Redwings, 8 Song Thrushes and 6 Mistle Thrushes. Other sightings were 2 Chiffchaffs, 8 Mediterranean Gulls, 10 Coots, 8 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 42 Starlings, 8 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 23 Meadow Pipits, 17 Goldcrests, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 5 Coal Tits, 97 Jackdaws, 8 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 2 Pied Wagtails, 4 Jays, 1 Bullfinch, 200 Goldfinches, 19 Chaffinches, 4 Common Gulls, 2 Nuthatches, 16 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks, 4 Kestrels, 6 Pheasants and 10 Stock Doves. 

Thursday 10th January

Nuthatch (Bottom Lake)

The highlight of the day without any doubt and certainly made my day, was the photograph's of a Nuthatch a bird which is normally so difficult to photograph. Other sightings included 44 Mediterranean Gulls, 1 Water Rail, 2 Chiffchaffs, 16 Redwings, 4 Mistle Thrushes, 10 Coots, 13 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 12 Starlings, 2 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 9 Meadow Pipits, 13 Goldcrests, 7 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 3 Coal Tits, 280 Jackdaws, 8 Rooks, 3 Grey Wagtails, 4 Pied Wagtails, 2 Jays, 1 Bullfinch, 15 Goldfinches, 33 Chaffinches, 10 Common Gulls, 27 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 5 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Sparrowhawk, 4 Kestrels, 2 Pheasants and 28 Stock Doves. 

Wednesday 9th January

Tufted Duck (Bottom Lake)

There was a couple of extra additions at the bottom lake today which included a lovely male Tufted Duck and a female Teal. Mediterranean Gulls continued their good month with a total of 89 birds mainly heading south this morning. Other sightings were 10 Redwings, 6 Mistle

Tuesday 8th January

Robin (Bottom Lake)

It was another very cold day and once again it was pretty much dominated by Mediterranean Gulls with a site total of 117, with other sightings being 1 Yellowhammer, 42 Redwings, 3 Mistle Thrushes, 10 Coots, 14 Moorhens, 1 Brambling (Good January record here), 1 Grey Heron, 1 Reed Bunting, 7 Starlings, 130 Wood Pigeons, 12 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 19 Meadow Pipits, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Treecreepers

Monday 7th January

Another good day for Mediterranean Gulls

It was another very good day for Mediterranean Gulls with a total of 205 mainly over the pasture fields, but best of all was a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker calling at the bottom lake, and is the first record for many a year. other sightings included 20 Redwings, 4 Song Thrushes 6 Mistle Thrushes, 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 3 Siskins, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Reed Bunting, 42 Starlings, 233 Wood Pigeons, 2 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 8 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 18 Goldcrests, 3 Nuthatches, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 89 Jackdaws, 4 Rooks, 1 Bullfinch, 18 Goldfinches, 20 Chaffinches, 11 Common Gulls, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Pheasants and 15 Stock Doves. 

Friday 4th January

Mallards (Bottom Lake)

It was certainly a much similar day to yesterday all round with a biting wind and cold conditions along with the bird sightings which included 92 Redwings, 3 Fieldfares, 7 Song Thrushes and 8 Mistle Thrushes. Others on site were 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 6 Siskins, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Reed Bunting, 30 Starlings, 39 Wood Pigeons, 14 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 1 Cormorant heading north, 3 Meadow Pipits, 2 Skylarks, 10 Goldcrests, 3 Nuthatches, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 130 Jackdaws, 29 Rooks, 1 Bullfinch, 38 Goldfinches, 24 Chaffinches, 28 Mediterranean Gulls, 48 Common Gulls, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Pheasants and 15 Stock Doves. 

Thursday 3rd January

Great Tit (Top lake)

It certainly feels like January with a biting wind and cold conditions, but it did produce a flurry of thrushes mainly heading south which included 120 Redwings, 9 Fieldfares, 11 Song Thrushes and 15 Mistle Thrushes. Others on site were 10 Coots, 10 Moorhens, 22 Siskins, 1 Teal heading south, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Reed Bunting, 57 Starlings, 150 Wood Pigeons, 21 Mallards, 2 Little Grebes, 1 Cormorant heading north, 8 Meadow Pipits, 4 Skylarks, 16 Goldcrests, 3 Nuthatches, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Ravens, 130 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 1 Bullfinch, 30 Goldfinches, 16 Chaffinches, 33 Mediterranean Gulls, 21 Common Gulls, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Kestrels, 1 Sparrowhawk and 11 Stock Doves. 

Wednesday 2nd January

Mediterranean Gull (Pasture Field)

First of all a very happy new year to all our readers, the start of 2019 was pretty good especially for Mediterranean Gulls with a total of 70 heading west, and a good number of Siskins with 61 heading north. Other sightings included 8 Coots, 2 Little Grebes, 11 Moorhens, 1 Grey Heron, 29 Mallards, 77 Redwings, 18 Long-tailed Tits, 12 Goldcrests, 3 Nuthatches, 2 Treecreepers, 6 Coal Tits, 4 Green Woodpeckers, 3 Grey Wagtails, 160 Jackdaws, 9 Rooks, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Kestrels, 11 Chaffinches, 30 Goldfinches, 33 Starlings, 9 Mistle Thrushes, 2 Redpolls, 2 Chiffchaffs, 6 Greenfinches, 4 Meadow Pipits, 3 Skylarks and 18 Stock Doves.