Sunday, June 01, 2025

Blackstone Edge Reservoir & Whiteholme Reservoir

   Once again, the ample shoreline at Blackstone Edge provided a wader bonanza this morning. Yesterdays reported 12 Sanderling had now increased to a flock 15 strong, flying around the reservoir in a close-nit group before settling down to feed on the exposed mud. At times they were quite approachable, and a steady stream of birders came and went throughout the morning, enjoying this incredible inland spectacle. 

  The birds of Halifax quotes that the record count of Sanderling in Halifax being nine on the 27th May 1980 at Fly Flatts. Before today, has this record been broken since its publication? And does this flock now become the new benchmark for Sanderlings in Calderdale?

  Whilst there, I also ventured on to Whiteholme Reservoir but found it almost void of birdlife. Who can blame the migrant waders when Blackstone Edge has so much shoreline to offer, and Whiteholme has comparatively little. 

-Sanderlings

In total managed 15 species at Blackstone Edge Reservoir today, the full list here; https://ebird.org/checklist/S245301265

In total managed 9 species at Whiteholme Reservoir today, the full list here; https://ebird.org/checklist/S245330572

2 comments:

Bradshaw Rambler said...

Stunning birds.

David Sutcliffe said...

Brilliant.....I guess that's a record. Will need to check with Nick.