Local patch

Walked my local patch around Mankinholes today and found 2 Swallows at Lee Dam - I think this is the earliest Swallow I've had in Calderdale. When I saw the first one it was in a tree so reckoned I'd got it wrong but then it flew off and voila - Swallow.

Also at Lee Dam were 2 Goldcrest, a Moorhen, 6 Teal and the usual Little Owl. 2 further Little Owls were at Mankinholes.

Back home 3 Linnet on the nyjer seeds were my first this year and a single Brambling was with the many other finches. The Redpoll flock visiting the garden has grown to over 20 birds now but it's hard to count them accurately as they are so active.