9 species of waders were once again enjoying the low water levels, this will remain until the jet ski club raise £30, 000 to plug the gap. Thanks to health and safety for once.
Monday, May 31, 2010
31st May Cold Edge
Strange new species seen filming a cow pat at Cold Edge today.
9 species of waders were once again enjoying the low water levels, this will remain until the jet ski club raise £30, 000 to plug the gap. Thanks to health and safety for once.
9 species of waders were once again enjoying the low water levels, this will remain until the jet ski club raise £30, 000 to plug the gap. Thanks to health and safety for once.
Stoodley Clough, Strait Hey, London Rd, Lee Dam
Took a walk around my local patch at long last today:
2 Blackcaps and 3Willow Warblers at Stoodley Clough but still no Chiff Chaffs.
Garden Warbler in the wood at Strait Hey.
There are plenty of Meadow Pipits along London Road now.
Lee Dam was busy this morning with 2 Little Grebes, a pair of Tufted Ducks, a single Moorhen, 4 Mallards and a Willow Warbler plus all the usual suspects.
A flock of 9 Long Tailed Tits came through the garden this afternoon in the sunshine and stayed around for about 5 minutes, making a lot of noise before passing on.
2 Blackcaps and 3Willow Warblers at Stoodley Clough but still no Chiff Chaffs.
Garden Warbler in the wood at Strait Hey.
There are plenty of Meadow Pipits along London Road now.
Lee Dam was busy this morning with 2 Little Grebes, a pair of Tufted Ducks, a single Moorhen, 4 Mallards and a Willow Warbler plus all the usual suspects.
A flock of 9 Long Tailed Tits came through the garden this afternoon in the sunshine and stayed around for about 5 minutes, making a lot of noise before passing on.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Missing Redstarts and Pied Flys
No sign of Redstart at Scout Wood - only Whitethroat, Chaffinch, Willow Warbler, Robin, Wren, Blackbird, Jackdaw.
No sign of Redstart down the Craggs. This bird has not been seen since Thursday. Also no sign of any Pied Flys although 2 males are allegedly still kicking around.
No sign of any Wood Warblers in historic location.
With all the wooded valleys in Calderdale, I'm surprised we haven't found more of these species. But then again, I don't see many birders these days, either.
No sign of Redstart down the Craggs. This bird has not been seen since Thursday. Also no sign of any Pied Flys although 2 males are allegedly still kicking around.
No sign of any Wood Warblers in historic location.
With all the wooded valleys in Calderdale, I'm surprised we haven't found more of these species. But then again, I don't see many birders these days, either.
What to do if you see a hedge being cut in the breeding season?
Recently, I "kicked off" at a group of "cowboy" gardening contractors who were busy cutting back a garden hedge in Bradford. "We've been paid to do it..." was their feeble excuse. So, were they acting legally? I did a bit of digging around and it seems that, even in the case of countryside hedgerows, "Possibly" is the unfortunate answer. The following come from a n Natural England fact=sheet http://www.hedgelink.org.uk/files/NE%20HEDGECUTTING.pdf
What time of year should I cut?
What’s the law, and how can I avoid
harming nesting birds?
As a general rule, try and cut most of
your hedgerows in January or
February. If ground conditions and
cropping patterns make this difficult,
then cut as late as possible in the
autumn. Cutting in winter means that
wildlife will have the time to take
advantage of the nuts and berries
produced by hedge plants in the
autumn. The bird breeding season,
1 March to 31 July, should always be
avoided: nearly every hedgerow in the
country will have birds breeding in it
during this time. Some birds continue
breeding into August. All wild birds,
their young, their eggs and active
nests are protected under law. It is an
offence to damage a nest
intentionally while it is in use or being
built – hedge cutting is highly likely to
damage nests or cause them to be
deserted.
For many moths and some butterflies,
cutting in August or September is
better than cutting later – probably
because winter cutting removes eggs
laid on new growth in the autumn.
So, if you have to cut most of your
hedges in one particular year (not
itself recommended), cut a few in
August or September, leaving the
majority until as late as possible.
Whenever there is a significant risk
to the health and safety of people,
hedgerows should be cut as
necessary to reduce that risk.
If you are a Single Payment Scheme
claimant in England, it is a condition
that you should not cut between
1 March and 31 July, with certain
exceptions.
What should I do if I see a
hedge being cut in the bird
nesting season?
There may be a valid reason why the
hedge is being cut, for example to
maintain road safety. If not, the
chances are that the persons
responsible are not aware of the risk
to wildlife, or of the concern they are
causing to others. With this in mind,
the best approach is nearly always to
talk to them, explain why you are
concerned, and to listen to their
reasons. Then, if appropriate, you
can explain the law as you
understand it and present any
relevant facts you may have (like the presence of active bird nests).
This way of doing things is likely to
result in a better outcome for you, for
the land manager, and for wildlife. It’s
almost always better to do this rather
than immediately contact the police.
Source - Natural England
What time of year should I cut?
What’s the law, and how can I avoid
harming nesting birds?
As a general rule, try and cut most of
your hedgerows in January or
February. If ground conditions and
cropping patterns make this difficult,
then cut as late as possible in the
autumn. Cutting in winter means that
wildlife will have the time to take
advantage of the nuts and berries
produced by hedge plants in the
autumn. The bird breeding season,
1 March to 31 July, should always be
avoided: nearly every hedgerow in the
country will have birds breeding in it
during this time. Some birds continue
breeding into August. All wild birds,
their young, their eggs and active
nests are protected under law. It is an
offence to damage a nest
intentionally while it is in use or being
built – hedge cutting is highly likely to
damage nests or cause them to be
deserted.
For many moths and some butterflies,
cutting in August or September is
better than cutting later – probably
because winter cutting removes eggs
laid on new growth in the autumn.
So, if you have to cut most of your
hedges in one particular year (not
itself recommended), cut a few in
August or September, leaving the
majority until as late as possible.
Whenever there is a significant risk
to the health and safety of people,
hedgerows should be cut as
necessary to reduce that risk.
If you are a Single Payment Scheme
claimant in England, it is a condition
that you should not cut between
1 March and 31 July, with certain
exceptions.
What should I do if I see a
hedge being cut in the bird
nesting season?
There may be a valid reason why the
hedge is being cut, for example to
maintain road safety. If not, the
chances are that the persons
responsible are not aware of the risk
to wildlife, or of the concern they are
causing to others. With this in mind,
the best approach is nearly always to
talk to them, explain why you are
concerned, and to listen to their
reasons. Then, if appropriate, you
can explain the law as you
understand it and present any
relevant facts you may have (like the presence of active bird nests).
This way of doing things is likely to
result in a better outcome for you, for
the land manager, and for wildlife. It’s
almost always better to do this rather
than immediately contact the police.
Source - Natural England
Friday, May 28, 2010
Cold Edge and Ogden
It was good to meet Adrian and Sue (I hope I've got your names correct)! at Cold Edge this morning and pleased you enjoy looking at the blog. It felt like back to winter this morning with the cold NW blowing hard and the site living up to it's name. All the birds were hiding away keeping out of the wind and I hope your next visit there is more productive.
Unfortunatly there was not a wader present - when earlier in the week there had been up to 9 species of wader there at the same time. Today just Meadow Pipits, a few Linnets and 1 male Reed Bunting along with the usual Canada Geese.
Ogden was a little more productive this afternoon with 2 Spotted Flycatchers present and a Cuckoo calling for an hour or so in Skirden Clough and in the main plantation.
Where are all the House Martins this year (??) - see comments from the BTO website below;
So what is happening? There can’t be anybody in the UK who hasn’t heard about the Icelandic ash cloud and the resulting complete closure of British airspace. The strong northerly winds that directed the ash cloud towards us have been a dominant feature this spring, making it difficult for birds flying north to make any headway. At the time of writing (late May) there are still reports of migrants arriving at south coast migration watchpoints, including Swifts, Swallows and House Martins.The pattern of arrival this year is very similar to that of last year, only the cause has changed. From the House Martin survey 2009, the latest House Martin to turn up at a regular site last year, build a nest and successfully raise a brood of youngsters, was during the first week in July. So there is still plenty of time, and now that the winds have a more southerly element to them, House Martins that have not yet arrived could do so anytime.If you have House Martins nesting on your property you can help us to determine how successful the 2010 breeding season is for these wonderful birds by taking part in the 2010 House Martin survey. For more information visit http://www.bto.org/home/housemartins.htm
Unfortunatly there was not a wader present - when earlier in the week there had been up to 9 species of wader there at the same time. Today just Meadow Pipits, a few Linnets and 1 male Reed Bunting along with the usual Canada Geese.
Ogden was a little more productive this afternoon with 2 Spotted Flycatchers present and a Cuckoo calling for an hour or so in Skirden Clough and in the main plantation.
Where are all the House Martins this year (??) - see comments from the BTO website below;
So what is happening? There can’t be anybody in the UK who hasn’t heard about the Icelandic ash cloud and the resulting complete closure of British airspace. The strong northerly winds that directed the ash cloud towards us have been a dominant feature this spring, making it difficult for birds flying north to make any headway. At the time of writing (late May) there are still reports of migrants arriving at south coast migration watchpoints, including Swifts, Swallows and House Martins.The pattern of arrival this year is very similar to that of last year, only the cause has changed. From the House Martin survey 2009, the latest House Martin to turn up at a regular site last year, build a nest and successfully raise a brood of youngsters, was during the first week in July. So there is still plenty of time, and now that the winds have a more southerly element to them, House Martins that have not yet arrived could do so anytime.If you have House Martins nesting on your property you can help us to determine how successful the 2010 breeding season is for these wonderful birds by taking part in the 2010 House Martin survey. For more information visit http://www.bto.org/home/housemartins.htm
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Cromwell Bottom
Following on from an earlier post with regard to the Local Nature Reserve at Cromwell Bottom and a request from Hugh Firman for more local naturalists to get involved in its future there is to be an opportunity to join the staff from Calderdale Council's Countryside Service for an evening of discussion over the key issues the Reserve faces. The evening walk will include a look at the access issues, habitat management and discuss plans to help this Local Nature Reserve improve and develop towards its potential. For further information please e mail me and I will pass on details.
26th May
Cold Edge again with DJS. 2 Snipe, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Dunlin, 2 Common Sandpipers, 1 Redshank, 3 Golden Plovers, 1 Lapwing and several Curlews. Also 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel and several Linnets.
Fly Flats briefly, 3 Redshank, 1 Oystercatcher and 2 Common Sandpipers.
Out and about last night with SC, Family of Tawny Owls, 2 Oystercatchers, 1 Snipe Drumming and several Curlews.
Fly Flats briefly, 3 Redshank, 1 Oystercatcher and 2 Common Sandpipers.
Out and about last night with SC, Family of Tawny Owls, 2 Oystercatchers, 1 Snipe Drumming and several Curlews.
Cragg Vale, Withens Clough, Stoodley Pike and Broadhead Clough
A very enjoyable circular walk yielded the following highlights: cuckoo heard singing from the car-park at the top of Withins Clough, spotted flycatcher in a clearing in Spring Wood (Broadhead Clough) and perhaps best of all, male redstart singing its little head off near here also. As an erratic poster, I am not sure of the protocol on the blog for being more locality specific with this one at this time of the year.
My only disappointment, still no whinchat seen up Withens Clough.
Regards, Chris
My only disappointment, still no whinchat seen up Withens Clough.
Regards, Chris
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Goosander Young
Nick D posted with photo on May 17th that the brood was down to 13. Tracked her down this morning and the brood has increased to 17. The only explanation for this must be the other female which is still around has bred and the two broods have merged,unless someone has another solution. Kingfishers at last years nest site and Sedge Warbler singing in the reedbed lagoon.
25th May Cold Edge area PM
A drumming Snipe proved a challenge to photograph.
Also found the remains of Daves Sparrowhawk Kill.
Nine species of wader today but nothing out of the ordinary.
Recent bits from Jumble Hole
- Woodcock roding almost every evening
- Up to 3 Garden warbler singing until nearly 10pm on the warm evenings
- A siskin flew over on Sunday, which was a first for summer up here
- Up to 3 Garden warbler singing until nearly 10pm on the warm evenings
- A siskin flew over on Sunday, which was a first for summer up here
Monday, May 24, 2010
Fly Flats/Withens Head
Fly Flats this afternoon
Waders present - Lapwing, Curlew, Common Sandpiper, Golden Plover, Redshank, Oystercatcher along with Reed Bunting, Pied Wagtail and 1 Red Grouse chick seen
No Twite again - where are they (?)
Withens Head
1 Wheatear - probable Greenland (maybe) from its size and buff/orange on the breast (?)
Cold Edge Road
The fields along Cold Edge Road (Withens Road) are a traditional area for juvenile Starlings post fledging - about 100+ today and I guess numbers are likely to increase significantly in the next week or two. A Sparrowhawk took one of them from a flock in the field at Withens Head this afternoon opposite the former Withens pub.
Waders present - Lapwing, Curlew, Common Sandpiper, Golden Plover, Redshank, Oystercatcher along with Reed Bunting, Pied Wagtail and 1 Red Grouse chick seen
No Twite again - where are they (?)
Withens Head
1 Wheatear - probable Greenland (maybe) from its size and buff/orange on the breast (?)
Cold Edge Road
The fields along Cold Edge Road (Withens Road) are a traditional area for juvenile Starlings post fledging - about 100+ today and I guess numbers are likely to increase significantly in the next week or two. A Sparrowhawk took one of them from a flock in the field at Withens Head this afternoon opposite the former Withens pub.
24th May Hardcastle Crags evening
Back to the crags with SC. Pied Flycatcher singing but not seen, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Grey Herons, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel, heard 3 Tawny Owls, 2 Woodcock roding, 3 Treecreepers, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, heard Garden Warbler, 1 Siskin + other usual birds.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
23rd May Hardcastle Crags
Went looking for Redstart with SC, no luck but had a nice male Pied Flycatcher. Also 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Grey Herons 1 Sparrowhawk,1 Little Owl, heard 3 Tawny Owls, 2 Treecreepers, heard 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 1 Nuthatch, 1 Grey Wagtail + usual woodland birds.Widdop/Gorple/Blake Dean/Crags
A trip upto to Widdop Res and a walk back produced some highlights and some lows
Widdop Res
Willow Warbler singing 11
Reed Bunting 4 males 2 Females
Common Sandpiper 2
Whinchat singing Male and a female
Greylag Goose 4
Low point NO Stonechats last year I had 3 pairs which all raised young.
Up and Over to Upper Gorple on the way had 2 Skylarks (the only ones seen anywhere).
Upper Gorple - nothing other than some fly through LBB Gulls, the top plantation produced 3 singing Willow Warblers, the middle plantation produced a further 2.
Lower Gorple
Willow Warbler singing 4
Tufted Duck 3 males 2 females
Curlew 4
Lapwing 6
Red grouse 1
Siskin 2 males 1 female
Common Sandpiper 1
Redpoll 1
Wheatear 1 female
Blake Dean
Tree Pipit 2 still singing from the telegraph wires
Willow Warbler min 3
Hardcastle Crags
Grey Wagtail 1
Dipper 2 Adult birds and 3 Hatchlings still in the nest and being fed.
Great Spotted Woodpecker 1 heard
Goldcrest 1
Willow Warblers (at this point I lost count - no problems with these birds at the moment)
Spotted Flycatcher 1 approx 100m from the wood shed
Nuthatch 1
No sign or sound of Pied Flycatcher and Redstart though it was 3.30/4pm by the time I got there and very busy.
Only raptor seen all afternoon was a single Kestrel.
Widdop Res
Willow Warbler singing 11
Reed Bunting 4 males 2 Females
Common Sandpiper 2
Whinchat singing Male and a female
Greylag Goose 4
Low point NO Stonechats last year I had 3 pairs which all raised young.
Up and Over to Upper Gorple on the way had 2 Skylarks (the only ones seen anywhere).
Upper Gorple - nothing other than some fly through LBB Gulls, the top plantation produced 3 singing Willow Warblers, the middle plantation produced a further 2.
Lower Gorple
Willow Warbler singing 4
Tufted Duck 3 males 2 females
Curlew 4
Lapwing 6
Red grouse 1
Siskin 2 males 1 female
Common Sandpiper 1
Redpoll 1
Wheatear 1 female
Blake Dean
Tree Pipit 2 still singing from the telegraph wires
Willow Warbler min 3
Hardcastle Crags
Grey Wagtail 1
Dipper 2 Adult birds and 3 Hatchlings still in the nest and being fed.
Great Spotted Woodpecker 1 heard
Goldcrest 1
Willow Warblers (at this point I lost count - no problems with these birds at the moment)
Spotted Flycatcher 1 approx 100m from the wood shed
Nuthatch 1
No sign or sound of Pied Flycatcher and Redstart though it was 3.30/4pm by the time I got there and very busy.
Only raptor seen all afternoon was a single Kestrel.
Gorple/Walshaw
Had a trip up last night, disappointing all round really. Not a lot to see, besides plenty of mipit, a couple of curlew, oysercatcher, around 6 common sandpipers, siskin and a drake wigeon on lower gorple were the only birds of note, not a single raptor in three hours. Red Grouse making lots of noise. Walked up to Upper Gorple hoping for lots of mud and it was full to the gunnels, presumably Yorkshire Water pump up there as storage.
Just over the border a Golden Plover took flight and lapwing scurried round the field below Walshaw plantation looking after chicks.
Just over the border a Golden Plover took flight and lapwing scurried round the field below Walshaw plantation looking after chicks.
23rd May AM
Walking home from a friends birthday bash at 2.45AM in the morning I heard an unexpected sound, a Cuckoo calling as it flew north west over Pellon. Checked with BWP when I got in and they do sometimes call in flight and also at night. Other birds Ive heard at night when out Mothing in the back garden have included Oystercatcher twice, Curlew and a probable Bar-tailed Godwit.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
M62!
A Hobby flew over the M62 this morning at 07:45 as I was travelling westbound just after the Scammonden bridge cutting. It came over at top of lorry height right in front of the car at right angles to the M way flying across towards the eastbound carriageway and away towards Rishworth. It showed fantastic plumage deatils - what a relief that there was hardly any traffic !!
Friday, May 21, 2010
21st May evening
Re-checked LEO site and had at least 3 young hunger calling. Also checked another site with a negative result. Other birds included 2 roding Woodcock, 1 druming Snipe, 2 Oystercatchers, Curlews, Lapwing and a Kestrel.Ogden golf course
1 pair of Stonechats this afternoon with 4 fledged young
1 Whitethroat singing in the same bush as the Stonechats
1 male Reed Bunting
1 Whitethroat singing in the same bush as the Stonechats
1 male Reed Bunting
21st May
Cold Edge again
Bumped into NK for the first time and had a chat. Waders present were 1 Dunlin, 3 Redshank, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Common Sandpipers, 1 Lapwing and several Curlew. The best bird though was a Raven which was mobbed by several Curlews.
Bumped into NK for the first time and had a chat. Waders present were 1 Dunlin, 3 Redshank, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Common Sandpipers, 1 Lapwing and several Curlew. The best bird though was a Raven which was mobbed by several Curlews.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
20th May Evening
Evening out with SC, 2 Tree Pipits singing at Blake Dean, Cuckoo calling in the distance.
Moved on to a previous LEO site and found two adults and heard two young hunger calling, 1 was sat out in the open (see photos). Also a Short-eared Owl seen briefly.
LEO survey update, birds present at four sites with two pairs proven to have young.
Top of Crags below Slack top
One Woodcock roding this evening, also 1 Tawny Owl seen but several others heard.
Roe Deer barking in nearby fields.
Roe Deer barking in nearby fields.
Luddendenden Dean - Thur Eve
Went looking for Redstarts with no luck. Only small birds in the woods I saw were Robins (some new fledglings), Coal Tits, Great Tits and Chaffinch. Also Sparrowhawk (m) and Kestrel on a wire in the Dean. Highlight was a Cuckoo incessantly calling from across the valley but remained elusive.
Blake Dean/Walshaw Dean/Lower Gorple
Blake Dean
2 Tree Pipits
1 Grey Wagtail
Pair of L T Tits with c8 fledged young
3 Stock Dove
1 Kestrel
Lower Walshaw
2 Sand Martins
2 Siskin over the plantation
2 Tree Pipits
1 Grey Wagtail
Pair of L T Tits with c8 fledged young
3 Stock Dove
1 Kestrel
Lower Walshaw
2 Sand Martins
2 Siskin over the plantation
20th May Cold Edge
Back to Cold Edge this PM. 5 Oystercatchers, 7 Lapwing, 1 Common Sand, 1 Redshank, 1 Snipe drumming, Curlews, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Kestrel, 5 singing Reed Buntings, lots of Linnets, possible distant Whinchat ?, 1 Willow Warbler.
Cold Edge Road
2 Oystercatchers, 2 Curlew, 2 displaying Lapwings, 3 singing Skylarks and a Mistle Thrush.
Wainstalls
3 new House Martin nests, 2 occupied.
Flints
Snipe drumming over the former reservoir yesterday evening. Still there on return leg 2 hours later. I have been told that they do frequent the area but first I have seen up there in 4 years.
Golden Plover on same area, they seemed to be moving between Flints & Crow Hill and back.
I went specifically to see if the Wheatears over towards Crow Hill (above Nook Farm) had stayed, again not seen them in this area over previous years until 3 weeks ago when there were12+. Managed to find 2.
Lapwings in abundance but no sign of any young.
Also seen:
Curlew
Mipits
Red Grouse
Swallows in abundance, no Swift yet
Golden Plover on same area, they seemed to be moving between Flints & Crow Hill and back.
I went specifically to see if the Wheatears over towards Crow Hill (above Nook Farm) had stayed, again not seen them in this area over previous years until 3 weeks ago when there were12+. Managed to find 2.
Lapwings in abundance but no sign of any young.
Also seen:
Curlew
Mipits
Red Grouse
Swallows in abundance, no Swift yet
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Hardacstle Crags/Walshaw
Hardcastle Crags (car park to Blake Dean and return)
1 Pied Flycatcher male singing
1 Redstart male singing
15 Willow Warblers
1 Nuthatch
12 singing Godcrests
1 Dipper
1 Grey Wagtail
1 Treecreeper
3 Tawny Owls (1 male singing and 2 others calling)
2 Stock Doves
1 Green Woodpecker
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker
plus usual woodland sp..
Unable to locate any Wood Warblers or Spotted Flycatchers though checked most of the traditional spots !
Walshaw
2 Cuckoos together and singing
6 Redpoll and c12 Siskin in the small plantation between Walshaw and New Laithe
1 Pied Flycatcher male singing
1 Redstart male singing
15 Willow Warblers
1 Nuthatch
12 singing Godcrests
1 Dipper
1 Grey Wagtail
1 Treecreeper
3 Tawny Owls (1 male singing and 2 others calling)
2 Stock Doves
1 Green Woodpecker
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker
plus usual woodland sp..
Unable to locate any Wood Warblers or Spotted Flycatchers though checked most of the traditional spots !
Walshaw
2 Cuckoos together and singing
6 Redpoll and c12 Siskin in the small plantation between Walshaw and New Laithe
Cold Edge
Little Ringed Plover at Cold Edge this morning2 Redshank
1 Oystercatcher
4 Curlew
1 Snipe (chipping)
12 Lapwings
1 Grey Heron
1 Common Sandpiper
1 male Whinchat
Lots of Linnets (c40) and Reed Buntings (c15)
1 Kestrel
Good to see Gordon as well
Assailants Fined for Assaulting Birlife Malta Volunteers
It's not much, but every conviction helps -
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100519/local/accused-plead-guilty-to-assaulting-birdlife-volunteers-in-dingli
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100519/local/accused-plead-guilty-to-assaulting-birdlife-volunteers-in-dingli
Iberian Chiffchaff
Outside our area, but it's worth getting your ear in to the songs in this video clip of the Potterick Carr Iberian Chiffchaff. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2hulMxZEPc
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Withens Clough
This evening;
2 Tree Pipits singing and showing well on the overhead wires and tops of trees in the clough (thanks for the tip-off Chris) -no Grasshopper Warblers heard tonight though!
Pair of Stonechats with at least 2 fledged young
1 Green Woodpecker
2 Reed Buntings
2 Willow Warblers
3+ Snipe 'drumming' just up the lane
1 Kestrel
Didn't have time to go round the res'r but loads of mud for waders if anyone gets chance to get up there.
2 Tree Pipits singing and showing well on the overhead wires and tops of trees in the clough (thanks for the tip-off Chris) -no Grasshopper Warblers heard tonight though!
Pair of Stonechats with at least 2 fledged young
1 Green Woodpecker
2 Reed Buntings
2 Willow Warblers
3+ Snipe 'drumming' just up the lane
1 Kestrel
Didn't have time to go round the res'r but loads of mud for waders if anyone gets chance to get up there.
18th May Cold Edge
2 Dunlin, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshank, 1 Common Sand, 1 Curlew, 1 Lapwing, Greylag Geese with young, a few Linnets kicking about and 2 Herons high over Luddenden Valley.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Jay House Lane
Stopped off for 10 minutes and it turned into the best part of 90 minutes as Little Owl posed. Surprised to find something else in the viewfinder, a Buzzard flew over and was mobbed by rooks, curlew and tree sparrows supporting.
Various sites
Checked two of the local Dotterel sites in the last few days - at White Hill (nr M62 Jct 22) and High Brown Knoll - without success!
Also checked High Royd (16th) where at least 1 Sedge Warbler was singing around the settling beds. (Thanks to MB for his posting on 14th May)
Fly Flats today - a fantastic record of a cream crown Marsh Harrier passing through this morning about 11 am - great record from NK
We checked the site again this afternoon but guess the bird was well on its way by then
4 Common Sandpipers
1 Redshank
2 Dunlin
2 Oystercatchers
2 Lapwing
2 Curlew
1 Golden Plover
1 Whinchat by the boat-house
2 male Reed Buntings
4 Wheatears
1 Kestrel
Worryingly NO TWITE but nyger seed still being put down
1 pr Greylag with 6 chicks down from 8 at the previous count on 12th May
Canadas with loads of young !
Also checked High Royd (16th) where at least 1 Sedge Warbler was singing around the settling beds. (Thanks to MB for his posting on 14th May)
Fly Flats today - a fantastic record of a cream crown Marsh Harrier passing through this morning about 11 am - great record from NK
We checked the site again this afternoon but guess the bird was well on its way by then
4 Common Sandpipers
1 Redshank
2 Dunlin
2 Oystercatchers
2 Lapwing
2 Curlew
1 Golden Plover
1 Whinchat by the boat-house
2 male Reed Buntings
4 Wheatears
1 Kestrel
Worryingly NO TWITE but nyger seed still being put down
1 pr Greylag with 6 chicks down from 8 at the previous count on 12th May
Canadas with loads of young !
17th May Goosanders
Afternoon at EGP, all the usual warblers etc. The Goosander brood is down to 13.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
LEO survey update
So far we have found birds in two areas. One is a new site and has produced our first calling youngster on the very early date of 26th April. It would seem that some birds have laid early in other parts of Yorkshire so we need to make a start now and check sites for calling young. The survey usually goes on until mid to late July so if anybody would like to take part please give me a call. cheers.
Crimsworth Dean
A couple of hours up Crimsworth Dean yesterday early evening produced basically nothing of interest. Worrying.
It's hard to decide whether the highlight was a treecreeper or a nuthatch....
On another note, many thanks for all the advice and offers lending me a book on Birding in North America. I've managed to scrounge a copy of Sibley, and it's excellent!
It's hard to decide whether the highlight was a treecreeper or a nuthatch....
On another note, many thanks for all the advice and offers lending me a book on Birding in North America. I've managed to scrounge a copy of Sibley, and it's excellent!
Cragg Vale and Withens Clough, 16th May 2010
Tree pipit singing on the wires up Withens Clough this morning, also a grasshopper warbler reeling nearby. No sign of any whinchats yet, but a rather lovely looking male stonechat by the car-park.
Regards, Chris
Regards, Chris
Saturday, May 15, 2010
15th May
Out and about with SC. Tawny Owl at a nest site. No sign of any LEOs at a nearby site though.GOOSANDER HAVE BRED AGAIN
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Located female with 14 young this morning at 0845 , location details left with Nick D, Nick C and Dave S. Photos to follow.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Learn Birdsong
As an aid to "getting your ear in", I've just uploaded three clips of singing warblers.
Blackcap - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLkBVToXR9I
Garden warbler - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AF7JTlsc72Q
Whitethroat - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B6HNg7qznU
Enjoy.
Blackcap - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLkBVToXR9I
Garden warbler - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AF7JTlsc72Q
Whitethroat - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B6HNg7qznU
Enjoy.
There's Birds In Them Thar Hills
Now is the time to get looking for those Redstarts, Pied Flycatchers and Wood Warblers. Calderdale has so many wooded valleys tucked away and with loads of old stone walls there are bound to be birds that are getting over-looked. Get out there and get looking. Let's see if we can improve on last year.
Catch of the Day
Last week I managed to film this Heron in the centre of Brighouse making off with a pretty big Perch.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_x_FEy2yKs
Anyone care to guess the weight? .....of the fish, not the bird.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_x_FEy2yKs
Anyone care to guess the weight? .....of the fish, not the bird.
Hardcastle Crags - 5:00pm
A walk from the bottom car park past the mill to 'the fork' and back.
- 4 spotted flycatcher (a pair at the first big clearing on the left, another pair at the fork)
- 11 goldcrest
- green and gs woodpecker
- 2 tawny owls calling
- 3 treecreeper
- roe deer
- tons of squirrels
So no redstart, no pied flycatcher, no wood warbler.
In fairness, it wasn't the best time of day to catch them, but all the other birds were singing like mad. A morning visit, including Crimsworth, might be more definitive, but I certainly can't do that until late June, by which time it's obviously too late.
- 4 spotted flycatcher (a pair at the first big clearing on the left, another pair at the fork)
- 11 goldcrest
- green and gs woodpecker
- 2 tawny owls calling
- 3 treecreeper
- roe deer
- tons of squirrels
So no redstart, no pied flycatcher, no wood warbler.
In fairness, it wasn't the best time of day to catch them, but all the other birds were singing like mad. A morning visit, including Crimsworth, might be more definitive, but I certainly can't do that until late June, by which time it's obviously too late.
High Royd
A quick visit this morning:
- 2 singing sedge warbler
- 1 garden warbler
- 1 treecreeper
- 1 coot
- 2 singing sedge warbler
- 1 garden warbler
- 1 treecreeper
- 1 coot
Eastwood sewage works - yesterday after brief rain shower
270+ swallows
180+ house martins
And a single swift!
Quite a sight.
180+ house martins
And a single swift!
Quite a sight.
14th May Cold Edge
Cold Edge PM, male Whinchat refound behind Haighcote Barn, 2 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 2 Snipe, 1 Common Sandpiper, 8 Curlew, 3 Greylag Geese, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Kestrel, 1 Lapwing, 3 Linnets, 2 Willow Warblers, 1 Lesser Black Back and 2 Black-headed Gulls.Mandarins
I've just uploaded a new clip this morning -
This is of my third drake Mandarin of the year, this one being paired (allegedly) with the Mallard duck in the video. Interesting to see if the eggs are actually fertile, and if so, what other new bizarre hybrids will be gracing our waterways. Watch this space. - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvDbf6vHeJ4
This is of my third drake Mandarin of the year, this one being paired (allegedly) with the Mallard duck in the video. Interesting to see if the eggs are actually fertile, and if so, what other new bizarre hybrids will be gracing our waterways. Watch this space. - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvDbf6vHeJ4
Thursday, May 13, 2010
13th May Walshaw Dean
Evening at Walshaw Dean with SC. The highlights were a Cuckoo calling from the plantation but not seen and 2 Woodcocks roding. Not much else.
Fly Flatts - Thu Eve
Curlew x 2, Lapwing x 1, Wheatear x1, Skylark x1, Grouse x2, Comm Sandpipers at least 2, Mipits, Canadas with young, Grelag with young.
Just back from holiday on Mull where I found 2 Bee-eaters for the local birders so don't give up on me yet!
Just back from holiday on Mull where I found 2 Bee-eaters for the local birders so don't give up on me yet!
13th May Cold Edge
Brief visit to Cold Edge this PM produced 3 Dunlin, 1 Common Sandpiper, 4 Curlews, 3 Lapwing and 2 Willow Warblers. No sign of Whinchat but it may still be present despite the hillside being on fire !
Chat up lines
Last nights birds, a cracking pair male singing and displaying to the female. Also up there two grey partridge.
Today's birds of note the Little Owl again and a Kingfisher flying upstream past Brighouse.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Grapevine change
After several years of helping run the grapevine for local birders I have decided to stand down with immediate effect therefore from now on please forward both morning and afternoon texts to Dave. Thanks to everyone who has supported what I think is a very succesful system for sharing local bird information.
Fly Flats and Cold Edge
This afternoon;
Fly Flats
8 Curlew
2 Lapwings
2 Common Sandpipers
5 Wheatears
No Twite !
Greylag Goose with 8 young
Cold Edge
1 male Whinchat
1 Wheatear
2 Dunlin
2 Common Sandpipers
4 Curlew
2 Golden Plover
Fly Flats
8 Curlew
2 Lapwings
2 Common Sandpipers
5 Wheatears
No Twite !
Greylag Goose with 8 young
Cold Edge
1 male Whinchat
1 Wheatear
2 Dunlin
2 Common Sandpipers
4 Curlew
2 Golden Plover
Todmorden
Just popped down to the market, and two Grey Wagtails flew along the Calder past the bus station. When I caught up with where one had landed, I realised it was a juvenile, and shortly after the female flew back in and started feeding it.
Whilst watching this, a Dipper flew upstream and returned a couple of minutes later - I will keep an eye on the spot I think it went.
Whilst watching this, a Dipper flew upstream and returned a couple of minutes later - I will keep an eye on the spot I think it went.
Birding book hunt
I am taking the kids to the States (Georgia and South Carolina) in a couple of weeks, and though it's certainly not a birding holiday, I might just throw in my binoculars......
Could anyone recommend (or better still lend me!) a decent bird book covering the south eastern United States.
Could anyone recommend (or better still lend me!) a decent bird book covering the south eastern United States.
Goosanders in the Snow
These Goosander were filmed earlier this year at Cromwell Bottoms. Sorry for the delay but I only got round to recording the music this evening. Enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S41i9X8jy5s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S41i9X8jy5s
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
White Crowned Robin in Hebden Bridge!!!
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Seen near the canal between Hebden town centre and Stubbing Wharf approx 2 weeks ago.
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Little Owl
Nice surprise on my way to work this morning, my first little owl of the year on Jay House Lane.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Domestic Violence
Following on the heels of Nick's Street Violence posting, here's an interesting little clip.
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheBaldIbis#p/p/28C2E00156683969/20/yHiidQOcf_Y
I waited for 4 hours at the nest site whilst adult Herons were returning to neighbouring nests laden with food for their offspring. Was the wait worth it? Yes indeed. Any illusions of heron chicks being endearing balls of fluff with quirky late-70s punk haircuts will quickly be dispelled after you have seen this. I guess the little critters were rather ravenous and not particularly impressed, nor satiated, by the parents idea of a fish supper. The clip is about half the length of the original. There were times when I thought that one of them was going to end in the river as Pike food.
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheBaldIbis#p/p/28C2E00156683969/20/yHiidQOcf_Y
I waited for 4 hours at the nest site whilst adult Herons were returning to neighbouring nests laden with food for their offspring. Was the wait worth it? Yes indeed. Any illusions of heron chicks being endearing balls of fluff with quirky late-70s punk haircuts will quickly be dispelled after you have seen this. I guess the little critters were rather ravenous and not particularly impressed, nor satiated, by the parents idea of a fish supper. The clip is about half the length of the original. There were times when I thought that one of them was going to end in the river as Pike food.
Fighting in the street
Fighting in the street (sounds like a Thin Lizzy track or is it Gary Moor ?). Got bored watching the news so went another walk, had only gone 2 or 300 yrds up Pellon lane when I heard a Starling alarm calling, within seconds a male Sparrowhawk came wizzing past followed closely by another adult male. The second bird stooped on the first and they both ended up in the middle of the road having a right go at each other. I got my camera out of its case and turned it on but by this time the two birds had seperated and one had fled, the other seemed to cellebrate its victory by soaring above my head with noteable white undertail coverts spread. Unfortunatly my camera settings were all wrong again!!. These are the best I could do in very bad light. I had just been talking to AC earlier in the day about having 3 male Sparrowhawks nearly hit me in 3 days whilst they were hunting, make it 5 now.
Top bird Sparrowhawk, one of my favorites.
Top bird Sparrowhawk, one of my favorites.