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JUNE 2008
WILDFOWL - Gadwall were present on several dates with a peak of 2 females at the Flashes on 3rd and 4th. However it was a great surprise when a brood of 12 chicks was noted of 13th (reduced to 9 by 28th). This represents only the second breeding attempt, the last being in 1988 when 4 young were raised on the North Moors. Small numbers of Shoveler were at the Moors, peaking at 2 on 1st, 14th and 20th; birds were also sporadically present at the Flashes with a max count of 6 on 6th. 97 Mallard were at the Flashes on 5th. Small numbers Teal were at the Flashes from the middle of the month, peaking at just 2 on 13th and 14th, and at the Moors from 20th, with a maximum count of 3 on 24th. 4 Shelduck were present at the Flashes during the month but no signs of any serious attempts were noted. An unseasonal drake Wigeon was seen at both the Moors and Flashes from 5th to the month’s end. Tufted Duck remained stable with a peak count of 23 birds across the reserve on 7th with a similar number just at the Flashes on 5th. A brood of 10 young was noted at the Moors from 24th (reduced to 9 by 28th); a second brood with just one young was noted in Amy’s Marsh from 28th. Ruddy Duck were noted at the Moors Pool throughout the month with at a peak of 4 birds on 25th and 26th; 1 was at the Flashes on 4th and 2 there on 25th. A maximum count of 10 Great Crested Grebe were at the Moors on 7th whilst May’s 3 young were still present at the month’s end. At least 2 pairs of Little Grebe were regularly seen at the Moors Pool, with a juvenile appearing at the Flashes from 18th onwards. 49 adult Coot (and many young) were at the Moors on 7th; Moorhen also breed in good numbers. Up to 3 pairs of Mute Swan were resident; the nesting pair at the Moors still had 6 cygnets (from 8) by 28th whilst the Flashes’/Sailing Pool pair were not seen after 7th (but could have simply moved down the Salwarpe). Greylag Geese were scarce in comparison to previous months, with 5 at the Flashes on 5th being the only notable count. 3 Grey Heron were across the reserve on several dates. A Cormorant was at the Moors on 28th, the first for over 8 weeks.
WADERS - May’s 2 Lapwing chicks at the Flashes fledged but no nesting attempts were noted. Several Oystercatchers were resident across the reserve throughout the month, with numbers peaking at 8 at the Moors Pool on 11th; the surviving chick at the Moors fledged but a second sitting bird abandoned its nest. Curlew were occasionally noted in the evenings at the Flashes, with numbers growing through the month to a peak of 18 on 16th. Typically 11 adult Avocet were present at the Flashes all month (12 on 27th) with May’s two broods of 3 and 4 going on to fledge and a third brood of 3 hatching from 9th. Upton’s amazing record of never losing a hatched Avocet chick continues! A pair of Redshank were at the Flashes all month and their 4 young were still present on 28th; 3 adult birds were present on 11th and 14th with 4 adults on 23rd. A peak of 6 Little Ringed Plover were at the Flashes on several dates, with a pair at the Moors producing 2 short-lived chicks from 5th. A Snipe was seen at the Moors on 2nd and 4th. A Sanderling was the Flashes early morning on 2nd whilst a Dunlin was at the Flashes on 19th. 3 Black-tailed Godwits briefly stopped at the Flashes on 27th whilst 4 birds were there on 29th. 2 Common Sandpipers were at the Sailing Pool on 26th with 1 seen at the Moors on the sane date. Green Sandpiper were present at the Flashes from 21st with 2 birds (occasionally also spending time at the Moors Pool).
GULLS / TERNS - Up to 16 pairs of Black-headed Gull nested at across the reserve with many young produced. Common Tern numbers peaked at 7 birds on the reserve on 27th.
MIGRANTS - May’s Grasshopper Warbler continued to reel (and show occasionally) at on the North Moors Pool until 10th; a Gropper was also noted near the Moors’ West Hide on 10th. A Spotted Flycatcher was briefly at the Flashes on 20th. There were regular sightings of Cuckoo on both sides of the reserve. Hobby were noted over the reserve on several occasions, with 3 at the Moors Pool on 16 and 17th including a juvenile bird. A Willow Warbler, now scarce outside of passage periods, was at the Moors on 17th. A Whitethroat with young was seen near the Sailing Pool on 18th.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - There were several sights of Raven including what were presumably family parties - 2 flew over the Moors Pool viewed from the Flashes on 7th, 5 were over the North Moors on 14th, 1 at the Flashes on 18th, 2 at the Moors on 23rd and 6 over the Moors on 27th. A Little Owl was seen on the old barns at the Flashes on a regular basis, with 2 present on 15th. An immature Peregrine Falcon was regularly seen around the transmitter masts. A Red Kite flew over the North Moors on 24th with another sighting the same area on 25th, making 2008 the most successful year on record for this expanding species. A juvenile Grey Wagtail was at the Flashes on 16th. The Otter was noted again at the Moors Pool near the West Hide in the early morning and evening on 7th and 10th.
MAY 2008
WILDFOWL - 2 Teal were at the Moors on 1st and 5th, with the same number at the Flashes on 3rd. Gadwall were present on many dates with a peak at the Moors Pool of 3 birds on 13th and 3 at the Flashes on 27th and 28th. 2 Shoveler were at the Moors on 13th and 1 on 25th; birds were sporadically present at the Flashes peaking at 6 on 26th. Up to 7 Shelduck were present on the reserve during the month. A male Pochard was at the Flashes on 6th. Tufted Duck dropped away in May with a peak count of 29 birds across the reserve on 25th (20 were at the Moors Pool on 4th and 25 at the Flashes on 14th). Small numbers of Ruddy Duck were present at the Moors Pool throughout the month, with a max count of 5 birds on 22nd. A pair of Garganey were at the Moors on 11th. A maximum count of 12 Great Crested Grebe were at the Moors on 3rd and 25th; two broods of 2 and 1 young respectively were noted from 22nd. At least 2 pairs of Little Grebe were regularly seen at the Moors Pool, with 5 present on 28th. Up to 3 pairs of Mute Swan were resident; the nesting pair at the Moors produced 8 cygnets from 9th (which had reduced to 6 by the end of the month) whilst the Flashes’ pair hatched 5 cygnets from 25th which then moved to the Sailing Pool. Greylag Geese remained common with a peak count of 12 on 5th; 5 young were seen from the 9th (just the second time the species has bred on the reserve) but only 1 was present by 23rd. Just 1 Cormorant was noted, at the Moors Pool on 1st. 5 Grey Heron were across the reserve on 25th.
WADERS - 3 broods of Lapwing hatched at the Flashes with a total of 7 chicks from the 1st onwards; by 31st only 2 chicks had survived. Up to 5 Oystercatcher were resident across the reserve throughout the month; only 1 of the 2 chicks at the Moors was present by 3rd but it was nearly fledged by the month’s end. A max count of 4 Snipe were at the Moors on 1st and was last noted on 28th; 1 was at the Flashes on 3rd and 25th. Curlew were occasionally noted at the Flashes, with a max count of 3 on 27th. 10 Avocet were present at the Flashes all month (with 11 birds between 25th and 28th and 12 on 29th). The first brood hatched 4 young by 14th whilst the second hatched 3 young on 30th; all were still present at the month’s end. 2 Redshank were at the Flashes all month with 3 birds there on 3rd and 8 on 26th after heavy rain whilst 1 was at the Moors on 4th; 4 young were noted at the Flashes on 31st. A peak of 8 Little Ringed Plover were at the Flashes on 3rd; they were also at the Moors on a number of dates, peaking at 2 on 9th. Single Ringed Plovers were at the Flashes on 17th, 18th and 20th with 1 at the Moors on 17th and 2 on 27th. Common Sandpiper were present at the Flashes on many dates with a max of 4 on 9th and 24th; 2 were at the Sailing Pool on 7th whilst numbers at the Moors peaked at 3 on 3rd. 2 Dunlin were at the Flashes on 1st with single birds at the Flashes on 2nd and the Moors on 5th. Spring wader passage was very limited in May with just 4 Wood Sandpiper at the Flashes on 14th (although this did represent the largest count since 5 birds in April 1986) and 2 Sanderling at the Flashes on 25th.
GULLS / TERNS - 16 pairs of Black-headed Gull nested at across the reserve (at least 3 broods had hatched at the Flashes by 31st), a marked increase on 2007’s position. A Herring Gull was the Moors on 4th. A first summer Common Gull was at the Flashes on 31st. 2 first-year Yellow-legged Gulls were at the Moors on 3rd. Following April’s marked passage of Little Gulls, May continued in a similar vein with 2 first summer birds at the Flashes on 3rd followed by 5 birds (an adult and 4 first summers) on 8th, a new peak count for the reserve, with an un-aged bird reported at the Moors on 30th, creating a total of 15 birds for the year so far, again a new record. Common Tern numbers were relatively low a peak count of just 6 birds on the reserve on 28th. 3 Black Terns were at the Moors Pool on 7th with numbers increasing throughout the following day to peak at 19 (the highest count since September 1992) to coincide with the above mentioned Little Gull movement; 2 were still present the following day (with 3 also at the Flashes). 1 bird was present at the Moors on 9th although numbers again increased to 12 late in the day. A Sandwich Tern was at the Moors Pool on the evening of 12th.
MIGRANTS - An Osprey flew over the Moors on the evening of 14th. A Grasshopper Warbler reeled daily on the North Moors Pool from 5th (with 2 birds present on 17th), the most sustained presence for several years. 2 Hobby were present on several dates at the Moors, with 3 birds on 12th. Both Cuckoo and Lesser Whitethroat were regularly reported, an improvement on 2007. 70 Swift were at the Moors Pool during heavy rain on 25th whilst 200 House Martins were present there the following day.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - A Barn Owl was at the Moors on 9th. Ravens were noted over the North Moors Pool on 2 dates – 4 birds on 1st and 2 on 11th. A Red Kite flew south east over the Moors then the Flashes on 7th. Single House Sparrows were noted at the Moors on 1st and 13th, with 2 birds on 14th. A Little Owl was behind the Sailing Pool on 5th and near the old barns at the Flashes on 30th. A Grey Wagtail was at the Sailing Pool on 3rd.
WILDFOWL - Wildfowl numbers continued to decrease a spring progressed with the following peak counts: Teal – 6 at the Moors on 5th and 26 at the Flashes on 3rd, Shoveler - 29 on 2nd (last seen on 25th), Pochard - 3 on 3rd (last seen on 25th) and Coot – 57 at the Moors on 5th. As with most years Tufted Duck numbers increased in April, with a max count of 60 on 12th. A pair of Goldeneye were at both the Moors and Flashes on 17th. A female Goosander was at the Moors Pool between 3rd and 23rd, with 2 birds on 4th, representing the longest continuous stay of the species of the reserve. Gadwall were present on many dates and increased through the month, with numbers peaking at 10 from 19th to 21st. 2 pairs of Shelduck were present on the reserve during the month, with 6 birds on 2nd, 6th, and 12th, and 5 on several dates. Up to 3 Ruddy Duck were at the Moors Pool throughout the month. A pair of Garganey were at the Moors on 27th. Great Crested Grebe numbers stayed high, with a peak count of 19 on 2nd and 12th. 2 Little Grebes were regularly seen at the Moors Pool, with 4 birds on 7th. Greylag Geese were common at the Moors, with a peak of 13 across the reserve on 25th. Cormorant numbers reduced dramatically, with a peak count of just 4 birds on 19th. 5 Grey Herons were across the reserve on 19th. A Little Egret was at the Moors Pool on 15th and 16th (also at the Flashes on the latter date). The first wildfowl brood was noted on 2nd at the Moors when a Coot was seen with 2 young; a Mallard with 3 young was noted at the Moors on 6th.
WADERS - Lapwing numbers reduced to the breeding population, with 6 birds at the Flashes and 10 at the Moors – 2 broods had hatched at the Moors by the month’s end. A max count of 14 Snipe were at the Moors on 6th; 7 were at the Flashes on 22nd. Jack Snipe continued to be seen regularly at the Moors until 24th with 2 present on several dates; 1 was at the Flashes on 12th and 26th. A max count of just 6 Curlew was at the Flashes on 20th, with 2 at the Moors Pool on 9th. A pair of Oystercatcher was resident throughout the month with up to 5 birds present on several dates across the reserve – 2 chicks hatched at the Moors on 29th. March’s 8 Avocet remained at the Flashes all month, with 11 birds on 24th and 10 from 25th; 1 was at the Moors on 23rd. 2 Redshank were at the Flashes all month, with 1 at the Moors on 9th and 16th. A peak of 8 Little Ringed Plover were at the Flashes on 25th and 27th; they were also at the Moors on a number of dates, peaking at 4 on 15th. Single Ringed Plovers were at the Flashes on 2nd, 17th, 19th and 20th. The year’s first Common Sandpiper was at the Moors Pool on 10th with numbers increasing later in the month to a peak of 5 birds across the reserve on 20th. Green Sandpiper were at the Flashes on 10th (1), 21st (3), 22nd (2) and 25th (1) and Moors on 16th and 21st. A winter-plumage Dunlin was at the Flashes between 16th and 19th with 2 summer plumage birds at the Flashes on the last date; 1 was at the Moors and 3 different birds at the Flashes on 20th with 1 at the Flashes on 21st and 1 at the Moors on 27th (with a further 3 flying through after heavy rain). 2 were then at the Flashes between 28th and 30th. A winter plumage Curlew Sandpiper was a real surprise at the Flashes from 20th to 22nd, the earliest date recorded and only the second spring record. A Bar-tailed Godwit flew over the North Moors on 20th. A Whimbrel was briefly at the Flashes on the morning of 20th with another (or the same) in that night’s roost; 2 were at the Flashes late on 22nd.
GULLS / TERNS - A peak count of 92 Black-headed Gull was present at the Flashes’ roost on 20th, with a peak of 46 at the Moors on 19th. 2 Herring Gulls flew over the Moors on 2nd, with a first winter bird at the Moors on 12th. Late the same day saw an adult, then 2 first winters, fly south over the Moors with 2 second winter birds were at the Moors on 20th. 2 second summer birds were at the Moors on 24th with 1 of the same age at the Flashes on 23rd. A third summer bird was at the Moors on 24th with a first summer there on 26th. A first winter Common Gull was at the Moors on 9th with an adult at the Flashes on 23rd. An unprecedented passage of 7 Little Gulls started on 15th when 3 birds (2 adults and a first summer) were at the Moors Pool; the 2 older birds still were present the following day with an adult also present from 17th to 20th when it was joined by another adult. 1 adult remained on 21st, joined by a second summer bird. Both birds, together with a new adult, were present on 22nd with finally a first summer bird at the Flashes from 25th to 27th (also seen at Westwood) and again on 29th and 30th. This run of sightings matched Upton’s peak count of 3 birds (also achieved on 20th April 1999) and made 2008 already the most successful year for the species. An Arctic Tern was briefly at the Sailing Pool on 17th (the earliest date recorded), another spent all day at the Moors on 21st whilst early morning birds passed through the Moors on 26th and Flashes on 27th. 4 Common Terns flew through the Moors on 20th with singles on both sides of the reserve from 23rd and 2 birds at the Moors from 27th. A Black Tern spent 2 days at the Moors from 20th with another there on 29th. A first summer Mediterranean Gull was at the Moors on 27th and 28th.
MIGRANTS - Fieldfare and Redwing were both last seen on 7th, when a mixed flock of 150 birds flew over the Flashes. Willow Warbler arrived at the Moors on 2nd, with at least 9 birds across the reserve on 6th. A female Blackcap was at the Moors on 2nd, with a singing male by the horse paddock the same day. Osprey flew over the Moors on the evening of 4th and the Flashes on the afternoon of 24th. The first Reed Warbler was heard at the North Moors on 9th, the earliest date on record. 2 Yellow Wagtails were at the Flashes on 13th and 15th with 2 at the Moors on 16th, 3 at the Moors then the Flashes on 19th and 3 at the Flashes with 2 at the Moors on 20th. Singles were then at the Flashes on 21st, 23rd and 30th with 3 at the Moors on 21st and 1 on 24th. A Wheatear was at the Moors on 4th with a female at the Flashes on 5th. A peak of 120 Sand Martins was split between the Sailing Pool and Moors on 6th. After 2 very early March birds, the next House Martin was recorded not until 9th. The first Cuckoo was at the Flashes on 16th. Whitethroats were seen at the Flashes from 18th. The Education Reserve produced a male Pied Flycatcher and a male Redstart on 19th, a day which say 88 species recorded across the reserve, including the first Sedge Warbler at the Moors. A male White Wagtail was at the Moors on 16th, with 2 on 20th. A female Marsh Harrier flew over the Flashes in the afternoon of 18th. The year’s first Hobby was over the Education Reserve on 16th and Lesser Whitethroat at the Flashes on 21st (with 4 by 29th). Swift was first noted at the Moors on 23rd. A male Whinchat was on fences at the Flashes on 26th. A Garden Warbler was seen near the track to the Moors’ East Hide on 26th, 27th and 30th with another by the Hen Pool on 30th. A Grasshopper Warbler reeled near the East Hide on the morning of 27th.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - Mealy Redpoll sightings at the Moors continued until 13th when an adult male was seen; a peak of 2 first winter birds were noted on 2nd. 2 first winter birds were behind the Hen Pool at the Flashes on 9th with 1 bird there on 13th. Lesser Redpoll numbers along the path to the East Hide at the Moors tailed off with a peak count of 5 on 2nd and were last noted on 19th. 1 Siskin was at the Moors on 2nd. A Rook flew over the Moors on 5th, 16th and 19th. 2 Little Owls were at the Flashes on 2nd with several sightings of singles birds near the old barns. 2 Grey Wagtails were on the Sailing Pool on 6th and 7th. A Barn Owl was at the North Moors on 7th and 9th. Ravens were noted on a near daily basis from both sides of the reserve with a max count of 4 on 6th, 14th and 19th. A pair of Treecreeper were very active along the path to the East Hide at the Moors with another pair around the Hen Pool. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was in the Education Reserve on 6th. A Red Kite flew over the Moors on the afternoon of 10th. 5 Buzzards were over the Flashes on 5th. A House Sparrow was near the East Hide at the Moors on 23rd and 27th.
MARCH 2008
WILDFOWL - 63 Teal were across the reserve on 15th, including 57 at the Flashes; 13 were at the Moors on 8th. Shoveler numbers increased through the month at the Moors, peaking at 43 on 29th. A pair of Gadwall was at the Moors Pool on several dates with a second pair at the Flashes on 8th, 29th and 31st; 3 pairs were across the reserve on 28th. 2 pairs of Shelduck were present on the reserve during the month, with 6 birds on 8th, 12th and 13th. Tufted Duck numbers continued to grow, with a max count of 52 across the reserve on 29th, whilst Pochard reduced as the month proceeded with a peak of 19 birds on 1st. A female Ruddy Duck was at the Moors Pool on several dates from 20th, with 2 on 27th and 28th and 3 (including a male) on 31st. Great Crested Grebe numbers increased throughout the month with a max count of 20 across the reserve on 24th. 2 Little Grebes were at the Moors Pool on 8th and 28th. Greylag Geese were encountered on several dates, with a peak count of 10 on 27th (8 at the Moors and 2 on the Flashes). Cormorant was ever-present, with a peak of 19 birds on 1st. 6 Grey Heron were at the Moors Pool on 18th. There were no reports of the Bittern, which was last seen at the Moors Pool on 27th February (its earliest departure date). Coot remained high at the Moors Pool to a peak count of 105 on 8th; 9 were at the Flashes the same day.
WADERS - The Lapwing flock at the Flashes started to reduce through the month, with a peak of 150 on 4th. 50 Snipe were at the Moors on 18th, with 9 at the Flashes on 9th. At least 4 Jack Snipe were at the Flashes on 9th with regular sightings at the Moors Pool up to 30th, including a max count of 9 on 18th. A max count of 48 Curlew was at the Flashes on 1st with 38 at the Moors Pool on the same day. A pair of Oystercatcher was resident throughout the month, with 4 birds on 19th and 3 on 20th. February’s pair of Avocet remained at the Flashes all month; they were joined by a third bird from 18th, increasing to 8 birds from 23rd. Redshank were at the Flashes on several dates, with usually 2 from 25th and 5 birds present on 31st; they were also occasionally at the Moors (including 3 on 15th). The year’s first Little Ringed Plover returned to the Flashes on 12th; 1 was present between 15th and 25th with 2 birds on 20th and 26th, 3 from 27th, 4 on 30th and 5 on 31st. A Green Sandpiper was at the Flashes on 23rd, 24th, 26th and 27th.
GULLS / TERNS - A peak count of 415 Black-headed Gull was present at the Flashes on 4th with 155 at the Moors on 25th. An adult Common Gull was at the Flashes on 1st with 2 there on 23rd; 1 was at the Moors on 8th and 21st whilst a first winter was at the Moors on 16th. A first winter Herring Gull was at the Moors on 2nd and 29th with 2 birds at the Flashes on 13th and 2 adults on 26th. 2 first winter Great Black-backed Gulls flew north over the Moors Pool on 16th.
MIGRANTS - Both Redwing and Fieldfare were last noted on 29th at the Flashes. Spring migration started suddenly on 15th - a male Wheatear was briefly at the Flashes, Chiffchaff were singing at both the Moors and Flashes and there were several parties of Sand Martin during the day, the largest being of 12 birds at the Moors. House Martins were noted on the 16th (Sailing Pool) and 18th (Moors); the earliest ever dates recorded at Upton Warren. By 19th there were up to 6 Chiffchaffs on the reserve. The first Swallow was at the Sailing Pool on 28th. A Marsh Harrier flew over the Moors Pool on 31st mobbed by a Grey Heron, the earliest date recorded at the reserve.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - 2 Stonechat remained at the Moors Pool until 4th with 1 bird on 5th; 3 birds (2 males and a female) were at the Flashes on 1st, 5th, 8th and 11th with 4 birds on 5th and 2 from 12th to 14th; 1 bird was present on 17th and 18th and a male was then at the Flashes on 30th. Siskin continued to be reported on a regular basis with a peak count of 20 at the Moors on 10th. Mealy Redpoll sightings continued all month; evidence from photographs and ringing sessions indicated at least 6 birds involved (2 adult males, 1+ adult female and 3+ first winters males) – 5 birds were seen on 15th and 4 on 25th, with 3 reported on many dates. Lesser Redpolls frequented the path to the East Hide at the Moors on a daily basis with a peak count of at least 20 on 2nd, 9th and 15th. The leucistic Mistle Thrush was reported on a number of dates in the pony paddock at the Moors. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was at the North Moors on 5th and in the Education Reserve on 14th and 19th. 3 Rooks flew over the Moors on 8th. Raven were seen over the Flashes on the 23rd (2) and the Moors on 24th (3). A Little Owl was by the BBC transmitter buildings at the Flashes on 9th and the old barns on 12th. 2 Grey Wagtail were at the Flashes on 11th. A Brambling was on feeders by the canoe training pool at the Sailing Centre on 13th with 2 birds (male and female) at the Flashes feeding station on 16th, 1 on 17th and 2 on 19th (including a different male) and 21st; a male was then seen in gardens adjoining the Moors on 26th. 2 Peregrine Falcons were on the transmitter masts on 15th. At least 6 Cetti’s Warbler were singing around the reserve on 15th. A female Goshawk flew over the Education Reserve on 15th. A Scandinavian Chiffchaff was in the hedge along the path to the Moors’ East Hide on 15th. A possible Water Pipit flew calling over the Moors on 16th. 2 Coal Tits were along the path to the East Hide at the Moors on 22nd.
FEBRUARY 2008
WILDFOWL - 54 Teal were at the Flashes on 22nd, with 15 at the Moors on 16th. Shoveler numbers were low at the Moors and peaked at just 16 on 13th; 3 were at the Flashes on 26th. A drake Gadwall was at the Moors on 2nd, 3rd and 12th, with 2 males on 13th and then a pair on 14th, 15th, 20th to 24th and 26th; a pair were at the Flashes on 29th. January’s 2 Shelduck were joined by a third bird on the 2nd; a pair then remained (predominately at the Moors) until 17th. 4 were then present between the Flashes and the Moors from 20th to the end of the month, with 5 birds at the Flashes on 24th. 51 Mallard were at the Moors on 17th. A drake Pintail was at the Moors Pool on 19th. A Mandarin Duck was reported at the Flashes on 1st. A pair of Wigeon were at the Moors on 16th. Tufted Duck numbers continued to grow slowly, with a max count of 21 on 24th, as did Pochard, with a peak of 20 birds on 21st. A male Goldeneye was at the Moors Pool on 11th. Great Crested Grebe numbers increased throughout the month at the Moors Pool, with a max count of 8 on 13th and 23rd. 1 Little Grebe was at the Moors Pool on several dates, as were 5 Mute Swan. 2 Greylag Geese were at the Moors Pool on 8th, with 1 present the following day; 4 were at the Moors Pool on 21st with 6 on the Sailing Pool on 24th and then 2 back at the Moors Pool on 29th. Cormorant was ever-present, with a max of 19 birds on 24th. A peak of 5 Grey Heron were across the reserve on 16th. 1 Bittern was seen on a regular basis at the Moors Pool throughout the month, particularly on the north-east shore. Coot remained high at the Moors Pool to a peak count of 205 on 2nd with 6 on the Flashes the same day. Water Rail was regularly encountered at the Moors, with 4 at the feeding station on 17th.
WADERS - The Lapwing flock at the Flashes remained high throughout the month, with a peak of 1,700 on 8th; at least 250 were at the Moors on 3rd. 72 Snipe were at the Moors on 25th with 15 at the Flashes on the same day. 6 Jack Snipe (the best count since 2003) were at the Flashes on 2nd with 2 birds on 24th and 1 on 27th and 29th; 1 was at the Moors Pool on many dates - 2 were there on 6th, 24th and 25th with 4 birds on 16th. A maximum count of 42 Curlew were at the Flashes on 27th, with 34 at the Moors Pool on 20th. An Oystercatcher visited both sides of the reserve intermittently throughout the month, with a pair at the Moors Pool or the Flashes on from 17th onwards; 3 were briefly at the Flashes on 24th and at the Moors on 28th, with 4 present on 27th. An early Black-tailed Godwit was at the Moors Pool on 14th and again briefly on 16th and 19th, associating with Curlews; it was then seen briefly on a daily basis at the Flashes between 21st and 24th and finally on 26th. A Woodcock was reported at the Flashes feeding station on 18th. An Avocet returned very early to the Flashes on 27th, with 2 birds there on 28th and 29th.
GULLS / TERNS - A maximum count of 1,250 Black-headed Gull was present at the Flashes roost on 2nd. 2 Herring Gulls flew south over the Moors Pool on 23rd. A Common Gull was at the Flashes on 29th.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - Peregrine remained a regular feature of the transmitter masts at the Flashes, with 2 birds on 12th. The pair of Stonechats remained at the Moors Pool all month; a third bird was seen at the Flashes from 24th until the month’s end. Siskin continued to be reported on a regular basis with a peak count of 16 at the Moors on 22nd. A Little Owl was seen on the old barns at the Flashes on 2nd, 16th and 29th, whilst a Barn Owl was seen in the same area on 13th. 2 Raven flew over the Flashes on the 3rd with 1 reported over the Education Reserve on the same day; 2 flew over the transmitter mast field on 27th with a third bird on the same date. 2 Coal Tits were in the Education Reserve on 10th whilst 1 was opposite Lifestyles at the Moors on 20th. Lesser Redpolls frequented the path to the East Hide at the Moors on a daily basis with a peak count of 20 on several dates, including 17th and 25th. Mealy Redpoll was noted amongst this flock on 6th, 9th, 10th, 12th, 13th, and then daily from 15th to the month’s end. At least 3 birds (1 adult and 2 first winters) were involved – multiple sighting included all 3 birds on 16th, an adult with a first winter on 17th and 25th, all 3 birds on 22nd, 2 first winters on 24th, and all 3 birds again on 26th and 27th. This series of observations represents the most consistent run and highest numbers of Mealy Redpoll in the reserve’s history. A Brambling was at the Flashes feeding station on 10th whilst a male was along the path to the East Hide at the Moors on 16th and 17th. 25 Linnet were at the Flashes on 16th. A distinctive leucistic Mistle Thrush was in the pony paddock at the Moors on 17th, 20th and 28th. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker along the track to the East Hide at the Moors on 20th with a male seen in the Education Reserve on 23rd. 6 Buzzard were noted circling from the Moors on 27th. A Skylark was singing in fields to the north of the Flashes on 27th, whilst a Yellowhammer was reported at the Flashes on 28th.
JANUARY 2008
WILDFOWL - 110 Teal were at the Flashes on 5th, with 57 at the Moors on 13th. Shoveler numbers peaked at 68 on 19th. A drake Gadwall was at the Moors on 2nd, 5th, 12thand 23rd and 27th with a pair present on 9th and 27th. 2 Shelduck were present at the Moors on 5th with 1 bird at the Moors Pool or the Flashes between 16th and 25th with 2 birds from 26th until the month’s end. A male Wigeon was at the Moors Pool on 6th with a female there on 20th whilst 7 birds were on the Sailing Pool at the same time; 7 bird were then seen at the Flashes on 29th. 101 Mallard were at the Moors on 13th with a further 11 on the Flashes. Tufted Duck numbers grew slightly on December’s figures, with a maximum count of 25 on 27th, as did Pochard, with a peak of 15 birds on 27th. Great Crested Grebe numbers increased slowly throughout the month at the Moors Pool, with a maximum count of 11 on 19th. 3 Little Grebes were at the Moors Pool on 23rd. 2 Greylag Geese were at the Moors Pool on 1st and 17th, with 3 birds on 23rd and 1 on 27th. 7 Mute Swan were across the reserve on 27th. Cormorant were ever-present, with a maximum of 23 birds on 2nd. 6 Grey Heron were across the reserve on 13th. 1 Bittern was seen on a regular basis at the Moors Pool throughout the month, particularly flying into roost at the north end of the pool late afternoon. A Little Egret arrived late each afternoon at the Moors before roosting in the Education Reserve between 2nd and 7th; it was also seen briefly lunchtime on 8th. Coot remained high at the Moors Pool to a peak count of 250 on 26th. Water Rail was regularly encountered at the Moors.
WADERS -The Lapwing flock at the Flashes remained high throughout the month, with a peak of 1,000 on 2nd, 13th, 16th and 30th; 300 were at the Moors on the 27th. An impressive 68 Snipe were at the Moors on 13th with 20 at the Flashes on 6th. A Jack Snipe was seen at the Flashes on 5th and 6th; 2 were at the Moors Pool on 7th and 16th with l on 10th, 13th, 26th and 27th. A maximum count of 24 Curlew were at the Moors on 30th; 25 were at the Flashes on 27th. A Golden Plover was heard calling over the Flashes early on 6th; up to 7 were with the Lapwing flock on 13th. An unseasonal Redshank was at the Moors Pool, then the Flashes, on 3rd whilst an early Oystercatcher visited both sides of the reserve from 29th onwards.
GULLS / TERNS - A maximum count of 110 Black-headed Gull was present at the Flashes on 9th, with 270 at the Moors Pool on 26th. There were several reports of Herring Gulls, including 5 over the Flashes on 6th, 1 at the Moors Pool on 1st and 1 over the Moors Pool on 19th and 25th. A flock of 25 Lesser Black-backed Gulls flew south over the Moors on 1st whilst there was a noticeable movement south on 19th.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - Up to 2 Peregrines frequented the transmitter masts at the Flashes. The pair of Stonechats from 2007 remained at the Moors Pool until the end of the month. Siskin was reported on a regular basis with a peak count of 50 in the Education Reserve on 3rd, with 30 at the Moors on 2nd. Smaller numbers of Lesser Redpoll were also present, with a maximum of 15 on 3rd. A Mealy Redpoll, only the sixth for the reserve, was on the east side of the Moors Pool with 3 Lesser Redpoll on 9th. An over-wintering Chiffchaff was seen at the Moors on 3rd whilst male Blackcaps were seen in the Education Reserve on 1st and on the east side of the Moors on 20th. 2007’s Barn Owl continued to hunt over the Flashes and its surrounds on an almost daily up until 7th. A Little Owl was seen on the old barns at the Flashes on 1st, 12th and 27th. A Tawny Owl was heard calling early morning on 1st (following no reports in 2007). There were a number of sightings of Treecreeper (including 2 on 1st), Kingfisher, Goldcrest and Grey Wagtail. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was in the Education Reserve on 1st. At least 5 Cetti’s Warblers were around the reserve on 6th. A Coal Tit was on the east side of the Moors Pool on 9th and 16th. A Meadow Pipit flew over the Moors on the 13th. 200 Fieldfare flew over the Hen Brook on 23rd. Large numbers of Wood Pigeon frequented the Moors and Education Reserve, with several counts of 200 birds. A flock of 22 Magpie was seen at the Moors on 23rd. A Rook, very scarce at Upton Warren, flew over the Flashes on 26th whilst single Ravens were fly-over records at the Flashes on 27th and the Moors on 30th. A Brambling was along the path to the Moors’ East Hide on 30th.
DECEMBER 2007
WILDFOWL - At least 100 Teal were at the Flashes on 28th, with 24 at the Moors on 17th. Shoveler numbers were high early in the month, with a max count of 77 at the Moors Pool on 5th, then dipped before peaking at 120 on 28th. 6 Gadwall were at the Moors on 19th. November’s 3 Shelduck stayed on the reserve until 6th. Unspecified numbers of Wigeon were at the Moors Pool on 15th and 16th, with 7 there on 17th, 2 on 19th and 1 on 22nd and 24th. Tufted Duck numbers remained low, with a max count of 10 on 27th, as did Pochard, with a peak of 13 birds from 24th onwards. A female Goldeneye was at the Moors on 5th, as were 4 Goosander (1 male and 3 females) – presumably the same party as seen on 26th November. A max count of just 3 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors Pool on 29th; 4 Little Grebes were at the Moors on 5th. Whilst generally absent from the reserve, 170 Canada Geese flew over the Flashes on 24th. 2 Brent Geese were on the Sailing Pool on 26th. Cormorant were ever-present, with a max of 21 birds on 5th. 5 Grey Heron were across the reserve on several dates. The 2 Bitterns was seen on a regular basis at the Moors Pool on the north-east and north-west shores, with a number of sighting also in the feeding station area. Coot remained high at the Moors Pool to a peak count of 286 on 12th. Water Rail was regularly encountered at the Moors. 17 Moorhen were across the reserve on 6th and 22nd. 9 Mute Swan were at the Moors Pool on 21st.
WADERS - The Lapwing flock at the Flashes remained high throughout the month, with a peak of 1,100 on 29th; 250 were at the Moors on 27th. 25 Snipe were at the Flashes on 2nd with 38 at the Moors Pool on 9th; a total of at least 43 were present across the reserve on 6th. A Jack Snipe was seen at the second Flash on 2nd, with another on the East Island at the Moors on 1st and 17th. A max count of 23 Curlew were at the Flashes on 2nd, with a similar number of the Moors Pool on 5th. A Green Sandpiper was present at the Flashes late on 2nd. A Woodcock was flushed from the North Moors Plantation on 26th.
GULLS / TERNS - A max count of 500 Black-headed Gull roosted at the Flashes on 1st, with 150 at the Moors on 16th. Several Herring Gulls were reported over the reserve on 2nd, with an adult at the Moors Pool on 5th, 2 over the Flashes on 9th and 3 over the Flashes on 24th (2 adults and a juvenile). An adult Common Gull was at the Flashes on 16th and an un-aged bird at the Moors on 19th. A first winter Mediterranean Gull was at the Moors on 17th. A juvenile Great Black-backed Gull was at the Moors on 23rd.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - A Goshawk was reported over the Sailing Pool on 21st. Up to 2 Peregrines frequented the transmitter masts at the Flashes. 4 Kestrels were seen at the Flashes on 2nd. 2 Stonechat remained at the Moors Pool until 27th. Male Blackcaps were seen at the Moors on 1st and Flashes on 2nd. A Chiffchaff was in the Education Reserve on 19th. Lesser Redpoll and Siskin were reported on a regular basis – peak counts were 3 of the former at the Moors on 6th and at least 40 of the latter at the Flashes on 28th. A Willow Tit has heard calling near the Hen Brook on 15th and in silver birches to the east of the North Moors Pool on 16th but not seen on either occasion. The Barn Owl continued to hunt over the Flashes and its surrounds on an almost daily basis up to 31st, often in broad day-light. A Little Owl was heard calling at the Flashes on 6th. 80 Fieldfare were in the North Moors Plantation on 6th. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was seen along the River Salwarpe on 8th and by the Moors causeway on 24th, with 2 at the rear of the Moors’ West Hide on 26th. There were a number of sightings of Treecreeper, Grey Wagtail and Linnet (max count of 8 at the Flashes on 27th). 2 Raven flew over the Flashes on 16th. At least 20 Reed Bunting were at the Flashes feeding station on 2nd. A House Sparrow was by the Sailing Centre on 22nd and 24th. A Coal Tit was seen near the Moors’ East Hide on 22nd and 29th. 200 Wood Pigeons were seen at the Moors on 27th. A male Brambling was on the Flashes’ feeding station for 5 minutes on 30th. At least 5 Cetti’s Warblers were on the reserve on 30th.
In summary, 2007 produced a total of 155 species for the reserve. This included two new species (Bee-eater and Great White Egret) and several other birds only encountered on a very infrequent basis, including Wilson’s Phalarope, Grey Phalarope, Hoopoe and Dipper (all second records), Red-necked Phalarope and Gannet (fourth records), Egyptian Goose (fifth record), Brent Goose (fifth and sixth records) and Whooper Swan (ninth record). There were also good showings from the likes of Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit, Mediterranean Gull, Bittern, Raven and Stonechat. However several commoner species were not recorded in the year including Little Stint, Sanderling, Little Gull, Black Tern, Tawny Owl and Rock Pipit. On the breeding front the reserve had a record-breaking year for Avocet (2 pairs fledged 8 young) and Common Tern (2 pairs fledging 5 young) but on the negative side both Redshank and Shelduck failed to breed and no Lapwing or Little Ringed Plover chicks were fledged from the nesting attempts.
NOVEMBER 2007
wwwwWILDFOWL - October’s Wigeon presence continued at the Moors Pool until 5th, peaking at 4 birds on the final day; 1 bird was seen at the Moors on 15th and 6 there on 19th. 2 drake Pintail were present at the Moors Pool for 30 minutes on the morning of 21st. 83 Teal were at the Flashes on 3rd, with 27 at the Moors the same day. Shoveler numbers gradually increased through the month, with a max count of 75 at the Moors Pool on 28th. A drake Gadwall was at the Moors Pool on 4th, with a pair there on 17th. October’s 4 Shelduck remained on the reserve until 3rd when 2 departed; the other 2 stayed all month with a third bird from 11th until the month’s end. Tufted Duck numbers remained relatively low, with a max count of 8 on 3rd, as did Pochard, with a peak of only 7 birds on 11th. A female Goldeneye was at the Moors on 5th, whilst a drake was present on 12th. A female Ruddy Duck was at the Moors Pool on 2nd and 11th. A female Goosander was at the Moors Pool on 1st, 2nd and 17th; a pair was present on 15th and a party of 4 birds (1 male, 3 females) was at the Moors Pool, then the Flashes, on 26th. A Greylag Goose was seen with the Canada Geese flock at the Moors Pool on 2nd. 8 Whooper Swans (3 adults and 5 juveniles) were at the Flashes between 08:55 and 09:30 on 18th before flying south – this is only the ninth record and represents the largest flock recorded at the reserve and the first occurrence for 9 years. They were seen the previous day at Bittell and the following day near Bransford Bridge, just west of Worcester. A max count of 6 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors on 11th. Little Grebe continued to be sighted at the Moors Pool with 2 on several dates and a single bird at the Flashes. Cormorant numbers remained high, with a max of 24 birds on 11th. 6 Grey Heron were across the reserve on 3rd. Bittern was seen on a daily basis at the Moors Pool and the presence of 2 birds was confirmed on 7th, with birds seen on the north-east and north-west shores. Coot numbers grew at the Moors Pool to a peak count of 208 on 25th. Water Rail was regularly encountered at the Moors, with up to 6 calling on 3rd, and also on the nearly created habitat in front of the Flashes’ feeding station hide, where 3 were seen on 9th.
WADERS - The Lapwing flock at the Flashes gradually grew through the month, with a peak of 570 on 25th and 30th. A Golden Plover was at the Flashes early morning on 3rd. 24 Snipe were at the Flashes on 11th; at least 30 were at the Moors Pool on 26th. A Jack Snipe showed on the southern shore of the second Flash on several dates, with another on the East Island at the Moors on a number of occasions. A max count of 32 Curlew were at the Flashes on 1st; 30 flew over the Moors Pool on 3rd whilst 28 were present on 30th. A Green Sandpiper was present at the Flashes on 3rd. A Dunlin was at the Flashes on 2nd and 3rd with another on 6th to 8th, 1 on 11th, 2 on 14th and finally 1 on 27th; 1 was the Moors on 12th. A first winter GREY PHALAROPE, only the second for the reserve, was at the Flashes from 3:00pm until dusk on 8th and then from first light until 9:00am on 9th. This completed the hat-trick of phalarope species for the reserve within 6 months – an amazing achievement for such a small inland site. A phalarope species (possibly the same bird?) was reported briefly at the Moors late afternoon on 10th before flying towards the Flashes when harassed by gulls.
GULLS / TERNS - A max count of 600 Black-headed Gull roosted at the Flashes on 1st. 16 Lesser Black-backed Gulls flew over the Moors Pool on 3rd, with 30 over the Flashes on 25th. An adult Common Gull was at the Moors Pool on 4th with a 1st winter bird there on 10th, 11th and 17th; an un-aged was at the Flashes on 21st. A Great Black-backed Gull was reported over the reserve on 11th. 2 Herring Gulls flew north over the Flashes on 28th.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - Peregrine Falcon remained a common feature around the transmitter masts. A Little Owl was calling at the Flashes on 4th whilst one was seen on the old barns on 16th. Meadow Pipits were regularly reported flying over the reserve. Skylark was also a regular fly-over feature including 3 over the Flashes on 3rd. Up to 5 Cetti’s Warblers were calling around the reserve. The 2 Stonechats remained at the Flashes until 11th (3 birds on 4th), with another at the Moors Pool between 3rd and 25th with 2 birds there on 28th; a record 4 birds were present across the reserve on 4th. 250 Redwing were at the Flashes on 4th, along with 20 Fieldfare. A Raven flew over the Flashes on 4th. A Coal Tit continued to be seen at the Moors’ feeding station during the first part of the month. Both male and female Blackcap were seen throughout the month at the Moors, often in the spindle clump. Lesser Redpoll and Siskin were seen on a number of dates on both sides of the reserve, with peak counts of 5 of the former flying over the Flashes on 3rd and 30 of the latter at the Hen Pool on 4th (20 were at the Moors on 21st and 27th). A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was near the Moors’ East Hide on 9th. A Barn Owl was seen hunting over the Flashes on an almost daily basis from 15th onwards, often giving very good views. The Starling roost at the Moors grew throughout the month to 500 birds by 14th, then 1500 birds on 21st. A remarkably late House Martin was seen over the Moors Pool on 18th, the latest ever recorded for the reserve. Several Linnet parties were seen on the second half of the month, including 10 on 28th.
OCTOBER 2007
WILDFOWL - A Pintail arrived at the Moors on 2nd with a second bird from 5th, frequenting both sides of the reserve, and remained until 15th. Wigeon were present at the Moors Pool from 2nd onwards – high counts included 15 on 2nd and 11 on 20th. 5 Gadwall were at the Moors Pool between 2nd and 4th, with up to 3 from 19th to 31st. Shoveler was present throughout the month, with 63 at the Flashes on 7th and 43 at the Moors Pool on 14th. Teal numbers at the Flashes rose to a max of 128 on 15th; smaller numbers were also at the Moors with a max of 70 on 30th. A drake Mandarin was a brief visitor to the Moors Pool on 19th. The long-staying Shelduck remained on the reserve all month, with a second bird from 10th and a total of 4 birds from 24th onwards. Tufted Duck numbers rose, with a max count of 21 at the Moors Pool on 5th. A female Scaup was at the Moors Pool briefly on the 2nd; the same bird had also visited Grimley and Westwood. A female Goldeneye was at the Moors on 30th. A Pochard returned to the Moors Pool on 5th rising to 7 by 27th. A female Goosander circled over the Moors Pool on 18th. 2 female Ruddy Ducks were at the Moors Pool on 19th and 21st, with 1 on 27th and 30th. Canada Geese numbers remained high, with 750 at the Moors Pool on 3rd. Greylag Geese continued to associate with the Canada Geese flock at the Moors, with a peak count of 4 on 24th. 2 Brent Geese, only the fourth reserve record, were at the Flashes for a few hours on 15th. A max count of 7 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors on 16th. Little Grebe was more numerous at the Moors with a peak of 5 on 21st; 1 bird was at the Flashes on several dates. Cormorant numbers continued on from their September heights, with a max of 29 birds on 13th. 6 Grey Heron were on the reserve on 21st. A pale plumaged Bittern returned to the Moors Pool on 12th and was seen regularly for the rest of the month on both the east and west shores. A GREAT WHITE EGRET, a long overdue first record for the reserve and only the third for the county, was seen on 1st - present at the Flashes between 2:35pm and 2:55pm and then briefly on the north side of the Moors Pool at 3:20pm; probably the same bird was seen later the same evening at Kinver. A max count of 180 Coot was at the Moors Pool on 23rd. Water Rail was regularly encountered at the Moors, with 2 at the feeding station on 24th
WADERS - The Lapwing flock at the Flashes had risen to 405 birds by 28th, with 60 birds at the Moors Pool on 8th. 2 Ringed Plover were at the Flashes on 3rd. A Golden Plover flew over the Flashes on 7th and 1 was present there on 23rd. Snipe continued to increase at the Flashes with 30 on 1st; 16 were at the Moors Pool on 22nd. The first Jack Snipe of the winter was seen at the Moors Pool on 12th and again on 18th, 24th and 27th, with a bird at the Flashes on 22nd and 26th. A max count of 42 Curlew was in the Flashes’ roost on 8th; 35 were at the Moors during the day on 24th. A Green Sandpiper was present at the Flashes on and off throughout the month, with 2 present late on 5th. A Dunlin was at the Flashes on 8th (probably the same bird flew over the Moors Pool on the same date) and 25th.
GULLS / TERNS - A max count of 1,000 Black-headed Gull roosted at the Flashes on 4th, with 54 at the Moors Pool on 20th. Common Gulls were regularly recorded – 4 at the Flashes on 2nd (3 juveniles and a 1st summer), 1 on 4th, 4 on 5th, a 1st year on 8th and 3 1st winter birds on 13th; a juvenile was at the Moors Pool on 5th with a 1st winter on 25th and 3 birds flew over on 28th. A 1st winter Mediterranean Gull was in the roost at the Flashes on 8th, 10th and 11th. 32 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were on the water at the Moors Pool on 28th, together with a Herring Gull. An un-aged Common Tern was present at the Sailing Pool on 3rd with 2 on 4th and a juvenile on 6th and 7th; 1 was at the Moors Pool on 5th.
MIGRANTS - The winter’s first Redwing was seen on 3rd at the Moors with 20 over the Flashes on 15th and again on 26th. Fieldfare was first seen on 18th at the Flashes with 25 birds over the Moors on 20th. Late departing summer migrants were last recorded on the following dates: Chiffchaff - 30th (Moors), Swallow - 3rd (Flashes), Blackcap - 18th (a singing bird at the Moors with 2 present on 4th), Redstart - 29th (Flashes; the previous latest bird was seen on 3rd October in 1987). A female / immature Marsh Harrier passed over the Moors Pool on the afternoon of 6th.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - A ringtail Hen Harrier was reported over the North Moors Pool on 20th (also seen the same day at Hanbury Hall). Peregrine Falcon was a common feature around the transmitter masts, with 2 birds on several dates. A Little Owl was on the old barns at the Flashes on 8th and 26th. Grey Wagtail was seen on a near daily basis across the reserve. Meadow Pipits were regularly reported flying over the reserve. A flock of 10 Skylark were in a field by the Sailing Pool on 10th. 5 Cetti’s Warblers were calling around the reserve on 31st. The colour-ringed Stonechat remained at the Flashes all month, with 2 birds from 3rd onwards (3 present on 6th only); 1 was at the Moors on 31st. A Dipper, only the second reserve record, was reported on the River Salwarpe on 20th. A flock containing both House Sparrow and Lesser Redpoll flew over the Moors on 6th; 2 Lesser Redpoll were at the Moors in 26th. Siskins were seen in the Education Reserve on 12th and at the Moors Pool on 22nd. A Yellowhammer was seen at the Flashes on 5th and heard there on 24th. Coal Tit, a reserve rarity, was seen at the Moors’ feeding station from 5th onwards, with 2 birds on 19th. Treecreeper and Goldcrest were reported on a number of occasions.
SEPTEMBER 2007
WILDFOWL - An eclipse Pintail was at the Flashes on 1st. 12 Wigeon were at the Moors on 11th, with 5 on 12th, 1 on 17th, 23rd and 26th, 2 on 21st and 7 on 29th; at the Flashes 7 birds were present on 27th with a further 11 flying over. 4 Gadwall were at the Flashes on 29th, with 5 later at the Moors. Shoveler was present throughout the month, with 36 across the reserve on 21st. Teal numbers at the Flashes rose to 98 by 10th; small numbers were also at the Moors. 13 Tufted Duck were at the Moors on 29th. August’s 5 Shelduck remained at the Flashes until 10th, with 1 bird present until the month’s end. A reserve record of 750 Canada Geese were at the Moors Pool on 29th with a Greylag Goose associating with the flock on many dates (2 present on 23rd and 29th). A max count of 7 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors on 1st, 2nd and 17th. Little Grebe was seen on both sides of the reserve, with a peak of 8 at the Moors on 24th. Cormorant numbers were high all month, peaking at 32 on 29th (the highest count since 2003) whilst 6 Grey Heron were on the reserve on 2nd and 29th. A Little Egret was on the third Flash briefly in the early morning of 16th with another at the Moors on 26th. A max count of 133 Coot was present on 23rd. 38 Moorhen were across the reserve on 1st.
WADERS - A juvenile WILSON’S PHALAROPE was September’s star attraction. It was discovered early on 23rd by a visiting birder from Yorkshire and stayed until dusk on 26th, permitting the many who visited the chance to “claw back” this American wader which was only seen by a few individuals during its last visit in 1985. Green Sandpiper was present at the Flashes until 25th, with a max count of 6 birds on 2nd although numbers fell away later in the month. Common Sandpiper was present at the Flashes until 17th, with 2 birds on 2nd, 6th, 10th and 14th; 1 bird was at the Moors one and off from 2nd to 13th. The Lapwing flock had risen to 112 birds by 2nd. August’s 3 Dunlin remained at the Flashes until 3rd with 2 then present from 10th to 24th (4 were present late on 21st and 3 briefly on 24th). Snipe continued to be present at the Flashes with 15 on 14th; 9 were at the Moors Pool on 2nd. 2 juvenile Spotted Redshank were briefly at the Moors, then the Flashes, on 12th. A Greenshank was at the Flashes on 3rd to 6th and 14th with 2 late on 18th; 1 was at the Moors on 5th, 6th and 19th. 2 juvenile Curlew Sandpiper were at the Flashes from 15th to 26th with 1 reported on 28th. A juvenile Ringed Plover was at the Flashes on 20th. A juvenile Ruff was at the Flashes on 23rd and 24th. A max count of 36 Curlew was in the roost at the Flashes on 6th.
GULLS / TERNS - This year’s breeding Common Terns remained until 10th when 3 birds were seen; 1 juvenile passed through the Flashes on 29th whilst 2 were at the Sailing Pool on 30th. A juvenile “commic” tern was at the Sailing Pool early morning on 17th whilst 18th saw a movement of Arctic Tern – a well worn juvenile at the Moors around midday followed by 2 adults over the Moors mid afternoon with 1 on the Flashes a few minutes later. A max count of 1600 Black-headed Gull roosted at the Flashes on 9th and 27th. August’s run of juvenile Mediterranean Gulls continued with a bird present during the day at the Flashes on 1st and 2nd, with 2 in the roost on 2nd and 3rd and 1 again on 15th. A first winter bird was reported from the Flashes on the morning of 7th. 21 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were present across the reserve on 2nd. An adult Herring Gull was at the Moors on 5th. An adult Common Gull was at the Flashes on 4th, 17th and 20th, with a juvenile there on 9th, 2 juveniles on 13th and 1 juvenile on 14th, 16th and 20th. A juvenile Gannet flew south west over the Moors Pool on 27th.
MIGRANTS - A female Wheatear was at the Flashes on 12th. A Spotted Flycatcher was in the hedge behind the Flashes hide on 19th and 20th. Yellow Wagtail was seen at the Moors on 17th and heard at the Flashes on 19th. A female Redstart was at the Flashes on 29th. Hobby was seen on both sides of the reserve until 23rd, with 2 at the Moors Pool on 1st and 16th with 3 on 5th, and 2 at the Flashes on 12th. Departing summer migrants were last recorded on the following dates: House Martin – 29th (Moors), Sand Martin – 21st (Moors), Swallow – 20th (Flashes), Sedge Warbler – 15th (Moors), Reed Warbler – 18th (Moors), Lesser Whitethroat – 6th (Flashes), Willow Warbler – 20th (singing behind the Moors’ East Hide), Blackcap – 22nd (Flashes).
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - Grey Wagtail was seen on several dates with a max count of 3 on 15th (2 on the Salwarpe and 1 on the Sailing Pool). August’s Stonechat (apparently with a ring on each leg) remained at the Flashes all month on and off. A Red-legged Partridge was heard calling at the Flashes on 3rd. A Little Owl was seen perched on the dilapidated barn roof of the farm at the Flashes on the evenings of 6th and 16th. 4 Raven flew over the Flashes on 12th with 2 birds seen on 16th and 19th with 1 on 17th and 21st. A calling Yellowhammer was heard overhead at the Flashes on 12th. Meadow Pipits were reported flying over the reserve from 16th onwards. The autumn’s first Lesser Redpolls (2) were by the steps at the Flashes on 29th with 7 Siskin present the following day. A House Sparrow was close to the Moors’ East Hide on 16th. 3 Goldcrest were by the Hen Brook on 17th as part of a small influx. 28 Mistle Thrush moved through the Moors on 19th.
AUGUST 2007
WILDFOWL - Tufted Duck numbers rose to approx 20 birds, with six young fledging at the Flashes. A Shoveler was at the Flashes 4th, with numbers rising to 32 by 31st. 2 Teal were at the Flashes on 4th, rising to an impressive 84 by 30th; small numbers were also occasionally at the Moors. July’s juvenile Shelduck remained until the month’s end, frequenting both sides of the reserve; it was joined by a further 4 from 30th. 245 Canada Geese were in fields north of Flashes on 15th; earlier that day, 150 were seen at the Moors. A Greylag Goose was at the Flashes on 22nd and the Moors on 25th and 28th. The 15th saw 170 Mallard on the Moors and 169 at the Flashes. A max count of 11 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors on 19th including this year’s fledged youngster. Little Grebe were on several dates, with a well developed chick suddenly appearing at the Flashes on 16th; 3 were seen at the Flashes on 19th with 1 at the Moors the same day. Cormorant numbers peaked at 8 on 17th, whilst 5 Grey Heron were at the Moors on 17th and 19th. A Little Egret was at the Flashes on 6th with 2 briefly on the morning of 12th and 2 in flight over the Moors early morning on 27th. 40 Moorhen were across the reserve on 19th. Water Rail continued to be seen at the Flashes including two juveniles, with a juvenile at the Moors being possibly from a third breeding pairs.
WADERS - Green Sandpiper was present all month the Flashes, with a max count of 11 birds on 2nd; numbers decreased to 6 mid month, rose to 9 on 22nd then reduced again to 6 at the month’s end. Common Sandpiper was also present at the Flashes all month, with 4 birds present between 13th and 16th. The Curlew flock was present most days with larger numbers in the evening roost, with a peak count of 54 on 23rd. The Lapwing flock had risen to 90 birds by 18th. July’s excellent passage of Black-tailed Godwit continued at the Flashes with 1 bird on 2nd and 2 on 6th to 8th, 1 again on 9th, 3 birds on 15th and 2 on 25th and 26th; 2 birds were at the Moors on 14th. Dunlin were at the Flashes on many dates, peaking at 4 on 27th to 29th. A Little Stint, the first since October 2004, was reported at the Flashes on 16th. A Greenshank was present at the Flashes on 8th, 20th to 24th and 29th (with 2 birds late on 22nd); 2 flew over the Moors on 30th. A Redshank was present on 14th and 15th, with 2 on 20th, and again on 29th. The first Snipe for the second half of 2007 were seen on 1st, increasing to 22 birds by 26th.
GULLS / TERNS - An adult Sandwich Tern passed through the Moors on 20th whilst an adult and juvenile spent over three hours on both sides of the reserve on 28th (later seen at Upper Bittell Reservoir and potentially Alvecote Pools), 3 Common Terns chicks on the Flashes fledged with 3 chicks hatched in one of the boxes at the Moors on 2nd - 2 went on to fledge; a peak count of 6 adults was seen. A max count of 2000 Black Headed Gull roosted at the Flashes on 31st. The now annual summer occurrence of roosting Mediterranean Gulls at the Flashes started on 2nd, 3 on 6th (including a bird with a white colour ring 35V8), 2 on the afternoon of 7th and singles on 8th and 9th; then again on 23rd and 29th with 2 on 31st. One was at the Moors Pool on the afternoon of 31st. All this month’s records relate to juveniles. A juvenile Common Gull was at the Flashes on 2nd and 9th, with an adult on 7th and 29th. 13 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were in the Flashes roost on 6th. A Herring Gull was at the Flashes on 8th and a second summer bird flew over the Moors on 28th.
MIGRANTS - A juvenile Marsh Harrier, the first for the year, passed through the Flashes heading towards the Moors, on 4th. This was closely followed by a juvenile / female over the Flashes on the evening of 8th, a juvenile north over the Moors on the morning of 9th and an immature female at the Flashes on 23rd. The first three reports probably all relate to just one bird. A Garden Warbler was at the Moors on 10th, Lesser Whitethroat still at the Flashes on 29th and Common Whitethroat at the Moors on 19th. Swift were last seen on 23rd at the Moors (2 birds). Hobby (including a juvenile) re-appeared at the Moors from 18th onwards, with 2 birds on 21st.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST - Peregrine remained a regular sight around the masts at the Flashes, with 2 juveniles present on 6th and 2 birds on 30th. 3 Raven flew over the Flashes on 4th, 1 bird over on 21st and 2 on 26th. 2 Rook were seen at the Flashes on 15th. 500 Starling gathered on pylons north of the Moors Pool in a pre-roost on 9th whilst 250 were seen at the Moors on 15th. At least 2 Kingfisher were seen daily at the Moors. A Grey Wagtail was at the Moors on 16th and 20th, with 2 on 26th. A Treecreeper was by the Hen Brook on 28th whilst a Nuthatch was heard calling from the Moors Farm area the same day. A Stonechat (probably a juvenile) was at the Flashes from 25th until the month’s end. A juvenile Green Woodpecker was at the Flashes, 2 juvenile Sparrowhawk at the Moors and three juvenile Bullfinch on the Moors feeding station. A family party of 18 Long-tailed Tits were at the Moors on 18th. An Otter frequented the south west corner of the Moors Pool in the second half of the month.
JULY 2007
WILDFOWL - Tufted Duck numbers stayed steady, with up to 12 birds on the Moors and the year’s first brood of 7 young was seen on Flashes from 17th. A Gadwall was at the Flashes on 2nd and the Moors on 15th. 2 Shoveler were at the Flashes on 7th, 12th and 26th, and 2 at the Moors on 14th and 1 on 30th. 2 Pochard were at the Moors on 10th. 3 Teal were at the Flashes on 31st, with 1 or 2 present on several other dates, whilst 1 was at the Moors on 14th and 30th. Mallard numbers continued to grow, with 156 at the Flashes on 4th and 80 at Moors on 14th. A juvenile Shelduck was at the Flashes from 17th onwards. A drake Ruddy Duck was on the Flashes on 26th, joined by a female the following day. A max count of 17 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors on 7th with one well grown chick present at the month’s end. 2 Little Grebe were at the Moors on 2nd with 1 or 2 birds at the Flashes late in the month but no breeding activity was observed. Cormorant numbers peaked at 8 on 25th, whilst 6 Grey Heron were at the Moors on 25th. A Little Egret was at the Flashes late on 16th. 3 Water Rail (including 2 juveniles) were seen at the Flashes on several dates.
WADERS - Up to 6 Little Ringed Plover remained present at the Flashes but with no further breeding attempts and numbers tailed off, with no birds present at the end of the month. The 3 Oystercatchers (2 adults and the fledged youngster) were seen throughout the month on either side of the reserve. The Lapwing flock had risen to 70 birds by 29th. Green Sandpiper was present all month the Flashes, with a max count of 12 birds on 18th. A Common Sandpiper was present at the Flashes all month with 2 birds on 11th, 16th and 17th, with 1 also at the Moors Pool on a number of dates. A small flock of Curlew was present most days and during the roost, with a peak count of 52 on 26th. A good passage of Black-tailed Godwit saw 20 birds (including an Icelandic bird colour ringed in Portugal) over the Moors then at the Flashes on 5th, the reserve’s second highest count. 9 birds were then at the Flashes on 6th with 1 bird on 7th to 9th, with a second bird arriving late on 9th. There were then 6 birds on 10th and 8 late on 18th and finally 13 briefly on 23rd. Single Dunlin were at the Flashes on 15th, 16th, 24th, 28th and 31st. 1 Redshank was present at the Flashes on 15th with 2 birds on 17th. 3 Greenshank were at the Flashes on 16th.
GULLS / TERNS - Up to 5 Common Terns were present throughout the month, with the pair nesting on the Flashes producing 3 chicks which hatched between 14th and 17th. One adult bird was seen to be injured with blood covering its throat and in a poor state; its fate is not known. A flock of 12 Common Tern passed through the Moors in 2 minutes on 29th. 3 Black Headed Gull fledged chicks were present on the Moors and 2 at the Flashes; the Flashes roost reached 600 birds on 19th. An adult summer Mediterranean Gull was at the Flashes on 16th whilst a juvenile Med Gull was at the same location on 30th. A Common Gull was at the Flashes on 17th, 18th and 21st. A flock of gulls seen following a tractor on fields between the Flashes and Moors on 25th included 1 Greater Black-backed, 2 Herring and 5 Lesser Black-backed Gulls.
MIGRANTS - Migrants recorded during the month included Lesser Whitethroat (2 by the Moors concrete hide, 1 by the Moors East Hide and 1 at the Flashes on 2nd), Whitethroat and Hobby. Juvenile Reed Warbler and Chiffchaff were seen around the Moors feeding station. 90 Swift were over the Flashes on the evening of 26th.
OTHER BIRDS OF INTEREST -Peregrine remained a regular sight around the masts at the Flashes, with 2 birds seen on 9th. A Treecreeper was at the Flashes on 2nd. A male House Sparrow was seen at the Moors feeding station on 4th. A juvenile Goldcrest was seen with an adult bird by the path to the Moors’ East Hide on 8th. Juvenile Bullfinch were seen on both sides of the reserve. Linnets were regularly seen at the Flashes, with a flock of 20 on 21st. A Little Owl was heard calling at the Flashes on 25th and 27th. 2 Raven flew over the Flashes on 26th. An unprecedented 15 Jays were seen at the Moors on 25th whilst the same date saw a flock of 30 Long-tailed Tits in the hedge behind the Moors’ East Hide.
JUNE 2007
WILDFOWL - Tufted Duck numbers stayed steady, with 8 birds on the Moors and up to 12 at the Flashes. Shelduck peaked on the Flashes at 5 birds on a number of dates but no breeding was confirmed. 2 drake Ruddy Shelduck were reported at the Flashes on the evening of 12th; 2 drake Ruddy Duck were present at the Flashes on several dates from 16th onwards. 2 Gadwall were seen at the Flashes on 2nd, with a female on 8th and another bird on 19th. 2 Shoveler were at the Moors on 1st and the Flashes on 2nd and 6th, with 1 bird there on 19th. 3 Teal were at the Flashes from 10th to 13th, 2 birds on 21st and 1 drake on 30th and 31st. Mallard numbers continued to grow, with 90 at the Flashes on 18th. 3 Red Breasted Merganser were recorded at the Flashes on 1st, hot on the heels of 2 flew-through drakes on 31st May. A max count of 19 Great Crested Grebe was seen at the Moors on 2nd and a family of 2 chicks was present at the end of the month. Greylag Geese continued to be seen in small numbers; a flock of 12 was present at the Moors on 2nd. Cormorant was intermittently recorded at the Moors, with 3 present on 16th, whilst 6 Grey Heron were at the Moors on 11th. A very distant flock of 5 birds seen from the Flashes on 1st could well have been Glossy Ibises (a similar flock was reported over the Moors Pool on 31st May whilst there was also a record from Sandwell Valley RSPB and a possible sighting at Alvecote Pools, Warwickshire).
WADERS - A superb RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was a one-day wonder at the Flashes on 15th; the fourth record for the reserve and the first since 1999. From photograph evidence it was considered possibly the same bird that was at Saltholme Pools, Cleveland the previous day. The first brood of 4 Avocet chicks fledged by 8th (occasionally visiting the Moors) followed by the second brood of 4 birds later in the month with both groups departing the reserve; the last two adults were finally seen on 26th. Up to 8 Little Ringed Plover were present at the Flashes with a further 2 birds at the Moors at the start of the month; despite several chicks hatching none survived by the end of the month. 3 Oystercatchers (2 adults and the fledged youngster) were present on the reserve, usually in the fields behind the Flashes. Only 1 Lapwing chick appeared to fledge at the Flashes, being seen in the sheep field; probably from the brood in the rear meadow; the flock had risen to 50 birds by 22nd supplemented by |
