SK58 Birders- Latest Bird News

previous updates: 12/06/2019 - 09/06/2019

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Sites & Grid References in SK58

Key: ad= adult, m= male, f= female, juv.= juvenile, imm.= immature, N= North, S= South, E= East, W= West, c= circa (approx.), >= direction of flight, spp= species, 1st W= first winter, 2nd W= second winter, 3rd W= third winter, 2nd S= Second summer, 3rd S= third summer. Sites listed below do not imply any right of access or public right of way.

23rd June At Steadfolds Lane were 5 Chiffchaff, 5 Whitethroat, 2 Willow Tit and 2 Song Thrush . At Kings Wood were 3 Buzzard, 2 Chiffchaff, 9 Blackcap, 12 Wren, 4 Song Thrush, single Nuthatch, 3 Goldcrest and 2 Bullfinch. At Roche Abbey a single Buzzard, m & f Kestrel feeding young, 2 Kingfisher, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, 2 Nuthatch, 2 Grey Wagtail with food and 2 Spotted Flycatchers (Mick Clay).

22nd June Along the Chesterfield Canal from South Anston to Turnerwood were 2 Buzzard, Kestrel, Kingfisher, 13 Chiffchaff, 17 Blackcap, single Garden Warbler, 5 Whitethroat, 18 Wren, 14 Blackbird, 6 Song Thrush, 8 Nuthatch, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Grey Wagtail with food, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and 3 Jay (Mick Clay).

18th June At Langold Lake today were 3 Buzzard, 32 Swift and 2 Common Tern (Mick Clay).

12th June Around Roche Abbey today were 2 Buzzard, 3 Wren, 4 Blackcap, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Kestrel, c35 Swift and c50 House Martin. In and around fields next to Firbeck church were 2 Yellow Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, 2 Buzzard, 5 Skylark, c45 Swift, 20 Swallow and 2 Red-legged Partridge (Alfie Bloor).

9th June Highlights of 43 species at NAPT early morning included 13 Wren, 6 Blackbird, 5 Meadow Pipit, 8 Willow Warbler, 9 Linnet, 6 Blackcap, 7 Chiffchaff, Lapwing >S, 5 Reed Bunting, a pair of Kestrel, 3 Skylark, 24 House Martin, 3 Stock Dove, 28 Swift, 5 Song Thrush, Heron >W, 13 Whitethroat, 3 Reed Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Mallard, 2 Cormorant >SE and a Buzzard. From Kings Wood Corner were m Sparrowhawk, a pair of Kestrel, 11 Buzzard, 44 Swift and 4 Skylark. Langold Lake held 4 Common Tern, 9 Mute Swan plus 3 cygnets, c70 Swift, 28 Mallard, 18 Coot, 2m & 1f Tufted Duck, 7 Greylag Goose, 3 Moorhen, 2 Great Crested Grebe, Green Woodpecker and a Black-headed Gull (Andy Hirst).

Common Tern @ Langold Lake © Andy Hirst

Terrapins @ Langold Lake © Andy Hirst

8th June A mild & cloudy hour at Roche Abbey included a steady passage of Swift, 18 birds recorded. Also 13 Mallard, 8 Wren, 5 Blackbird, 2 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 2 Heron and a Spotted Flycatcher (Brian Chambers).

Spotted Flycatcher @ Roche Abbey © Brian Chambers

7th June At Tommy Flockton's Marsh were, Buzzard, 4 Swift, 6 House Martin, c50 Starling, 4 Goldfinch and a Common Tern, which appeared to fly from Kiveton Waters, carrying food, down Hard Lane towards Harthill (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

5th June A Red Kite low over Firbeck Hall possibly going into wood (Mick Wheeler per Mick Clay).

30th May At Axle Lane this morning, a hunting Hobby (Mick Clay).

29th May A Barn Owl hunting between Old Spring Wood and Back Lane at 1110 (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

26th May The SK58 square bash kicked off at Langold Lake where 7 members walked the perimeter of the lake. Alas no new migrants but good numbers of birds such as Blackcap. Water birds included Heron, 2 pairs of Great Crested Grebe, 7 Mute Swan, 10 Greylag Goose inc, 6 juv's, 11 Coot and 22 Mallard. From here we went to Roche Abbey, before it became busy. The highlights here were 2 pairs of Spotted Flycatcher. Yet more Blackcap, c20 Swift, 6 Mallard and 2m Gadwall. 4 Chiffchaff and 3 Goldcrest. From here we went looking for the Quail which had been recorded a few days previously at Thornbury Hill. Alas this proved elusive in the now windy conditions. Moving on, we checked out a known Hobby site, and the group were rewarded with excellent views of a pair as they perched and hunted, as well as chasing off Corvids. Calling off at Gateford Lake, added little to the day, but did show a few folk exactly where it was, and it does look inviting for passage birds in the future. We called it a day and finished off at Leger Lakes cafe, where much welcomed tea, coffee and cake were devoured! (Andy Hirst). A Marsh Harrier appeared to go down in fields at Axle Lane this evening (James Clay).

25th May By the "Boat House" in Lindrick Dale today, a Spotted Flycatcher plus a Sedge Warbler at Turnerwood (John Gallagher). At Harry Croft's Quarry were Buzzard, 11 Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, 3 Willow Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Little Owl and Small Copper Butterfly (Mick Clay).

24th May At Roche Abbey today were a pair of Spotted Flycatcher on the ruins . A Garden Warbler at Thurcroft Marsh today, plus 2 Grey Partridge and and 2 Reed Warbler at Thurcroft Pit Top (John Gallagher). Along Steadfolds Lane today were 3 Buzzard, 3 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Whitethroat, 8 Skylark as well as 6 Holly Blue butterflies. At Kings Wood Corner were 4 Buzzard,10 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest and juvs, 2 Treecreeper and 6 Song Thrush. At Roche Abbey were 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Nuthatch, 2 Treecreeper with juvs, 3 Blackcap, and Comma butterfly (Mick Clay).

23rd May Single Hobby over Owday Lane, Woodsetts (Andy Murray). Also, a Red Kite over Thievesdale Lane, Worksop today (James Clay).

21st May A Common Sandpiper at Langold Lake today, but no sign of any Spotted Flycatcher (Mick Clay).

20th May A Quail flushed from the roadside at Thornbury Hill, which flew 50m into a Barley field (Simon Mitchie). Also 2 Spotted Flycatcher at Langold Lake, at the rear of Andy's Cafe (Mick Clay).

19th May At Langold Lake, a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker reported between the substation and the play area (Mick Scott).

14th May At Langold Lake today were Common Sandpiper & 2 Common Tern (Mick Clay).

13th May A Kingfisher at Langold Lake today (Mick Scott).

11th May A Hobby >SW over South Anston today (Mick Clay).

9th May At NAPT today were Kestrel, Wheatear, 3 Song Thrush, Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 12 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff, 6 Willow Warbler, 4 Linnet and 2 Reed Bunting (Geoff & Lyn Facer). At Axle Lane was a Yellow Wagtail (Brian Chambers). Little Egret >NW over Anston (James Clay).

Yellow Wagtail @ Axle Lane © Brian Chambers

6th May At Axle Lane this morning were m&f Wheatear (scarce this year) plus 5 Yellow Wagtail (Mick Clay). Four members took part in the "May Day Ramble". A Tawny Owl called briefly in Langold woodland. Other woodland birds included Kestrel, 2 Nuthatch, 3 Coal Tit, Reed Bunting, 5 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Song Thrush and a Mistle Thrush. On the lake a pair of Great Crested Grebe were displaying, along with a Heron, a pair of Tufted Duck and 4 Common Tern. Greylag Geese and Canada Geese had numerous young.
At Buckwood farm were Swallow, Skylark, Pied Wagtail, Whitethroat, Blackcap, Linnet and Goldfinch.
In the area around Letwell sewage works were Whitethroat, Bullfinch and a Yellowhammer was heard (Geoff Facer). Still 4 Common Tern at Langold Lake (Brian Chambers).

Whitethroat @ Axle Lane © Brian Chambers

5th May At Langold Lake early morning were 2 Hobby, c12 Swallow, 9 Mute Swan, 12 Coot, 18 Mallard, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 9 Greylag Goose, Green Woodpecker, Heron, 2 Whitethroat and 8 Wren. Dinnington Marsh was pretty quiet except for 4 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, Lapwing, 2 Bullfinch, 2 Kestrel and a Willow Tit. Along Eastfield Lane were 4 House Martin >N plus a single Lapwing (Andy Hirst).

4th May A Little Egret at Tommy Flockton's Marsh this morning (Mick Clay). By Johnson's Print at Church Lane, Dinnington, a Grasshopper Warbler reeling at 2330 (John Gallagher).

3rd May At Langold Lake today were 2 Fieldfare and a Common Tern. By Johnson's Print at Church Lane, Dinnington, a Grasshopper Warbler reeling at 2330 (John Gallagher).

1st May 9 Swift >N over NAPT today (Mick Clay).

27th April Despite the grim weather, a good selection of species in Harry Croft's Quarry including 10 Whitethroat, 5 Skylark, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 12 Linnet, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Little Owl, 4 Stock Dove, Buzzard, 6 Lesser Black-backed Gull >NW, Raven and f Teal (Andy Hirst).

26th April An Oystercatcher >S over NAPT this morning, plus Sedge Warbler by the entrance to Bluebell Wood Hospice plus Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Willow Warbler, Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, and a Kingfisher. At Harry Croft's Quarry were 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Blackcap and a Fieldfare >N, (Mick Clay).

24th April At NAPT were 2 Song Thrush, 2 Reed Warbler, 2 Sedge Warbler, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 5 Willow Warbler and 4 Reed Bunting (Lyn & Geoff Facer). At Axle Lane today were 3 Yellow Wagtail. At Harry Croft's Quarry were Yellow Wagtail and 4 Whitethroat (Mick Clay).

22nd April What will no doubt be the bird of the year, and just rewards for the countless hours birding in SK58 for the observer, was a Hoopoe >N at 0840, circa 10m high and 50m away, which rose up from the ponds at Axle Lane, >N towards NAPT, but lost from view over the ridge of Axle Lane (Mick Clay). Despite extensive searching by a number of members, the bird was not relocated. This a new bird for SK58 Birders and constitutes the 197th species recorded in wild state within SK58. A Lesser Whitethroat & Garden Warbler at Dinnington Pit Top (John Gallagher & Andy Murray). Early morning at Thurcroft Marsh & Thurcroft Pit Top revealed 13 Willow Warbler, 13 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Tit, 2 Song Thrush, 8 Bullfinch, 6 Blue Tit, Sedge Warbler, 14 Whitethroat, 5 Reed Bunting, 3 Jay, 2 Swallow, Garden Warbler, Heron, 4 Skylark, 4 Herring Gull, Little Ringed Plover and Yellow Wagtail. At NAPT were 3 Buzzard, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, Reed Warbler and Lapwing (Andy Hirst).

Grasshopper Warbler @ Thurcroft Marsh © John Gallagher

21st April At Thurcroft Marsh this morning were 2 Grasshopper Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat and Garden Warbler. Nearby Thurcroft Pit Top held 6 Grey Partridge, 2 Ringed Plover >S, Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Wheatear and a Whinchat (John Gallagher). At NAPT today were 14 Wren, 13 Blackcap, 19 Robin, 3 House Sparrow, 7 Chiffchaff, 21 Willow Warbler, 5 Great Tit, 5 Song Thrush, 2 pairs of Bullfinch, Swallow >N, 14 Linnet, 4 Skylark, 2 Meadow Pipit, m Sparrowhawk, 2 Stock Dove, m Kestrel, 12 Blackbird, 5 Whitethroat, Buzzard and Lapwing. Along Eastfield Lane were 4 Lapwing, 3 Canada Goose, 12 Black-headed Gull and a Buzzard. From Kings Wood Corner were 7 Buzzard, 2 Blackcap, Chiffchaff, 2 Nuthatch, 3 Skylark, m Sparrowhawk, 6 Swallow, 2 House Martin, Heron >S and Tawny Owl calling in daylight (Andy Hirst).

Whinchat @ Thurcroft Pit Top © John Gallagher

Wheatear @ Thurcroft Pit Top © John Gallagher

20th April At NAPT today were 5 Wren, 4 Dunnock, 4 Song Thrush, Reed Warbler, Whitethroat, 7 Blackcap, 8 Chiffchaff, 9 Willow Warbler, 4 Linnet and 5 Reed Bunting (Geoff & Lyn Facer). Early morning in Harry Croft's Quarry produced 5 Whitethroat, 3 Willow Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Little Owl & f Sparrowhawk (Mick Clay, Brian Chambers, Andy Murray & John Gallagher).

19th April 19 Buzzard from Kings Wood Corner, also Lesser Whitethroat at Lingodell. Single Wheatear and 2 Yellow Wagtail at Harry Croft's Quarry (Andy Murray). At Carlton Lake were 2 Teal, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 35 Greylag Goose and 3 Whitethroat (John Gallagher).

18th April Around Letwell today were 3 Buzzard, 3 Yellowhammer and 2 Meadow Pipit (Alfie Bloor).

17th April A m Wheatear in Harry Croft's Quarry (Mick Clay).

16th April At NAPT, a slight increase in migrants with 9 Willow Warbler, 8 Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap, Swallow and Lesser Redpoll >N, 7 Song Thrush, 14 Blackbird, and 5 Reed Bunting (Mick Clay).

14th April Early morning at Carr revealed a pair of Little Owl. At Thurcroft Pit Top were 3 Bullfinch, 6 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 8 Reed Bunting, 18 Linnet, 4 Yellowhammer, 4 Grey Partridge, 3 Stock Dove, 3 Buzzard, 7 Snipe and a Little Ringed Plover. Langold Lake held 8 Mute Swan, 8 Coot, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Tufted Duck, 3 Moorhen, 8 Mallard, 6 Blackcap, 6 Swallow and 2 House Martin. At Carlton Lake were Buzzard, 2 Greylag Goose, 2 Mallard and Moorhen (Andy Hirst & Alfie Bloor). At Firbeck Hall were 30 Fieldfare >NE. Langold Holt revealed 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3 Gadwall and a Kingfisher. At Brampton Common were 16 Greylag Goose and 6 Canada Goose (John Gallagher). Barn Owl in Harry Croft's Quarry (Andy Murray).

13th April At Carlton Lake today were 6 Snipe, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 8 Fieldfare and a reported Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. At Hodsock, a Kingfisher (John Gallagher). A Willow Tit at NAPT, by Cramfit (Mick Clay).

10th April 2 Peregrine displaying over Woodsetts (Andy Murray).

8th April 3 House Martin >N at Axle Lane (Mick Clay). Four group members took part in the monthly walk at Langold Lake. Among 35 species recorded were 6 Great Crested Grebe, 9 Mute Swan, 30 Greylag Goose, 20 Canada Goose, 2 Tufted Duck, Buzzard, Green Woodpecker, 8 Wren, 3 Dunnock, 22 Robin, 5 Song Thrush, 9 Blackcap, 10 Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest, 5 Nuthatch and a Treecreeper (Lyn & Geoff Facer).

7th April At Harry Croft's Quarry early morning were 2 Song Thrush, 6 Yellowhammer, 3 Stock Dove, 6 Meadow Pipit, 20 Linnet, Willow Warbler, 2 Buzzard, Little Owl and Curlew >N. At Hodsock were 2 Swallow >N, 3 pairs of Lapwing, 4 Skylark, 4 Greylag Goose, Cormorant >W, 2 Grey Partridge and 2 Grey Wagtail (Andy Hirst & Mick Clay).

6th April At Langold Lake today were 3 Swallow, 10 Sand Martin and a Willow Warbler (Mick Clay).

5th April Yellow Wagtail at Axle Lane (Mick Clay). Along the Chesterfield Canal from Thorpe Bridge to Shireoaks were a pair of Mute Swan (nesting), Buzzard (Old Spring Wood), Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3 Grey Wagtail, 12 Wren, 7 Song Thrush, 11 Blackcap, 18 Chiffchaff, 2 Marsh Tit, 5 Nuthatch, 7 Greenfinch and a pair of Bullfinch (Stiff's). At Brown Bailey's were 4 Great Crested Grebe, Heron, 12 Tufted Duck, 6 Coot with 1 juv., 5 Wren, c24 Sand Martin, 2 Blackcap and 6 Chiffchaff. A pair of Grey Wagtail were on the River Ryton at Lindrick Dale (Lyn & Geoff Facer). At NAPT were 12 Chiffchaff. At Langold Lake were 13 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 4 Blackcap, 5 Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, 2 Green Woodpecker, 5 Nuthatch, 2 Treecreeper, 3 Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, 8 Great Crested Grebe with 1 nest and a Mute Swan on a nest (Mick Clay).

4th April Two Little Egret at Kiveton Pit Top this morning (Alan Bateman).

3rd April Wheatear at Harry Croft's Quarry today (Andy Murray).

2nd April A Little Egret flew from Tommy Flockton's Marsh in the direction of Kiveton Waters (Lyn Facer).

1st April At Langold Pit Top were 5 Skylark, 2 Blackcap, Siskin >N, 3 Chiffchaff, 6 Buzzard, Jay, Grey Wagtail, 2 Green Woodpecker and a Great Spotted Woodpecker (Andy Hirst). First House Martin at South Anston this morning (Mick Clay).

31st March At Langold Lake today were 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 4 Buzzard, Sparrowhawk displaying and Tawny Owl calling (Mick Clay).

30th March Early morning at Tommy Flockton's Marsh produced a pair of Wigeon, 4 Teal, 2 Mallard, a pair of Grey Wagtail and 2 Chiffchaff. At NAPT were Red Kite >NW, 9 Robin, 9 Great Tit, 8 Dunnock, 13 Wren, 11 Blackbird, 13 Chiffchaff, 3 Stock Dove, 8 Meadow Pipit, 13 Linnet, 4 Skylark, 3 Song Thrush, 8 Reed Bunting, 4 Mallard, Snipe, 2 Jay, 2 Blackcap, 2 Buzzard and m Sparrowhawk. At Langold Lake were 12 Coot, 14 Mallard, 10 Mute Swan, 9 Greylag Goose, 7 Tufted Duck, 8 Great Crested Grebe including a nest, Green Woodpecker, 9 Moorhen, Heron, a pair of Gadwall, Blackcap singing, Buzzard and Kingfisher. Nearby Carlton Lake held 2 Canada Goose, 11 Greylag Goose, Moorhen, 2 Mallard & Lesser Redpoll >N. Further down the road at Brown Bailey's were 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Mallard, 5 Coot, Moorhen, Great Crested Grebe, 10 Sand Martin and Siskin >N. From Kings Wood Corner were 14 Buzzard, Blackcap, Lapwing, Tawny Owl and 2 Nuthatch (Andy Hirst). Around Anston Stones Wood this morning were 5 Chiffchaff, Jay, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Nuthatch, 2 Bullfinch, Kestrel, and 2 Sparrowhawk (Alfie Bloor). At Hodsock today were 9 Lapwing (3 nests), 3 Blackcap & 4 Grey Partridge (John Gallagher). A Kingfisher at NAPT today (Mick Clay).

29th March An Osprey >N over Kiveton Lane, Anston at 1000 (James Clay). At Thurcroft Pit Top were Peregrine, 2 Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, 6 Buzzard and 2 Whooper Swan (John Gallagher).

Whooper Swan @ Thurcroft Pit Top © John Gallagher

25th March Barn Owl at Slade Hooton this evening (Andy Hirst).

23rd March Early morning wardening the hide at NAPT produced 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Song Thrush, 6 Reed Bunting, 5 Blackbird, just 2 Lapwing, 8 Mallard, 6 Magpie, 2 Mistle Thrush, a pair of Bullfinch, 2 Meadow Pipit, 11 Pheasant, 150 Woodpigeon, 2m Sparrowhawk, just 3 Linnet, 4 Buzzard, Jay, 3 Redwing, 4 Lesser Redpoll and a Greenfinch. In Harry Croft's Quarry were m Wheatear, 3 Skylark, 4 Stock Dove and Little Owl (Andy Hirst). First Blackcap of the spring at Langold Lake this morning (Mick Clay & Brian Chambers). In Anston Stones Wood this morning were 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Treecreeper, 5 Wren, Sparrowhawk, 2 Buzzard, 3 Nuthatch and Great Spotted Woodpecker (Alfie Bloor).

22nd March Along the Chesterfield Canal from Thorpe Bridge to Shireoaks were 8 Chiffchaff, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, 6 Wren, 3 Grey Wagtail and 3 Bullfinch. At Hewett Arms were Little Owl and Song Thrush. At Harry Croft's Quarry were Kestrel and Raven (Geoff Facer). Little Egret still present at Kiveton Pit Top (Alan Bateman).

17th March At NAPT this morning were 8 Lapwing on the scrape, plus 5 more >SW, Common Gull >N, 4 Black-headed Gull, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull >N, 3 Mallard, a pair of Kestrel, 6 Buzzard (3 over the hide), 3 Pied Wagtail, 140 Fieldfare >N, single Skylark, 13 Meadow Pipit and 2 Moorhen. At Harry Croft's Quarry were Raven, 2 Mallard, Little Owl and 6 Buzzard (Andy Hirst).

16th March At NAPT this morning were single Brambling, Siskin, 2 Chiffchaff, 5 Tree Sparrow and a Lapwing (Mick Clay). Around Roche Abbey were 2 Nuthatch, Treecreeper, 12 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Goldcrest, 5 Teal, 2 Gadwall, Moorhen, 5 Mallard and 2 Buzzard (Alfie Bloor).

11th March Six members attended a very windy Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among 34 species recorded were 8 Great Crested Grebe, Heron, 9 Mute Swan, 6 Greylag Goose, 54 Canada Goose, 4 Pochard, a pair of Tufted Duck, a pair of Goosander, 3 Buzzard, Green Woodpecker, Grey Wagtail, 7 Pied Wagtail, 3 Mistle Thrush, 5 Nuthatch, 10 Goldfinch and a pair of Siskin (Geoff Facer).

3rd March Water Rail calling at Kiveton Pit Top (Alan Bateman). A Chiffchaff and 4 Pairs of Great Crested Grebe including one with a nest today at Langold Lake (Mick Clay).

2nd March Early morning at Roche Abbey produced 16 Teal, 2 Moorhen, 3 Gadwall, 5 Mallard and a Little Grebe. Kings Wood revealed a Woodcock, 6 Song Thrush, 12 Coal Tit, 5 Goldcrest, Green Woodpecker, 12 Great Tit, 5 Buzzard, 12 Nuthatch, 4 Stock Dove and 4 Marsh Tit. Harry Croft's Quarry held 2 Kestrel, 8 Yellowhammer with 12 Buzzard over (Andy Hirst & Mick Clay). At Firbeck Hall today were Tawny Owl, 10 Siskin and Jay. Carlton Lake held 3 Heron, a pair of Goosander and 2 Grey Partridge. Hodsock revealed 2 Grey Partridge, m Sparrowhawk and a Chiffchaff (John Gallagher). Between Woodsetts & Gildingwells today were 12 Reed Bunting, c30 Meadow Pipit, 2 Lapwing and a Buzzard (Alfie Bloor).

26th February At Kiveton Woodlands near the Green Bridge were Little Egret, Willow Tit, Water Rail, 4 Reed Bunting, 6 Dunnock and 4 Robin. Later at Tommy Flockton's Marsh were Little Egret feeding in the main pool, this probably the same bird seen at Kiveton Woodlands (Kiveton Pit Top) (Brian Chambers).

25th February Herds of 35 & 45 Whooper Swan >N today at Kiveton Pit Top. Little Egret still present (Alan Bateman).

Whooper Swans @ Kiveton Pit Top © Alan Bateman

24th February 7 members met and reconvened at Leger Lakes on Eastfield Lane, Laughten en le Morthen, for the SK58 February walk. Striding out along the ridge at Slade Hills, the weather was fine, cool, but misty. Yellowhammer were in evidence with at least 7 birds counted at Slade Hills amongst the many Chaffinch, as well as 6 Lapwing in a recently ploughed field. Approaching Kings Wood we had several Red-legged Partridge in the game cover, plus 2 Cormorant over >N. Dropping into the valley where Roche Abbey lay, we began to pick up woodland birds, including modest numbers of Long-tailed Tit, Nuthatch & Treecreeper Nearing Laughton Pond we picked out mixed wildfowl, including 7 Gadwall, 5 Mallard, 9 Teal and Little Grebe. By now the sun had burned through the mist and Roche Abbey looked resplendent in the late morning sunshine. Roche Abbey was generally quiet except for a calling Tawny Owl and good views of Marsh Tit and Grey Wagtail. Continuing on we left Roche Abbey behind and circled around Stubbing Wood, although bizarrely the mist was becoming denser again, restricting viewing. Here we had Tree Sparrow, Pied Wagtail, Nuthatch, and Buzzard. Back on Eastfield Lane, by Lingodell we saw 2 Greylag Goose, Cormorant, 3 Black-headed Gull, c200 Fieldfare and 50 Starling. Making our way back along the road, we were seeing much as we had previously, save for a flock of c250 Linnet on Eastfield Lane. The weather was becoming quite warm now, and it was much to the relief of all when we finally arrived back at Leger Lakes for a welcome drink and an indulgent slab of cake as well as scones, panini's and and sandwiches. Not the most species rich walk, but a pleasant walk in fantastic weather (Andy Hirst). At Grange Farm Loscar a f Merlin today (John Gallagher).

23rd February At Firbeck Hall, a probable Crossbill over (John Gallagher). At NAPT this morning were 4 Lapwing, 5 Song Thrush, 3m Reed Bunting, Meadow Pipit, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gull >N, 3 Black-headed Gull, 5 Robin, 2 Buzzard, 7 Long-tailed Tit and Bullfinch. At Hodsock were f Kestrel, 9 Skylark, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Fieldfare, Jay, 7 Pied Wagtail, 10 Chaffinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, c25 Linnet, m Grey Wagtail, Buzzard and 6 Teal. From Thornbury Hill were 3 Buzzard, 4 Skylark, Nuthatch, 6 Carrion Crow and Tawny Owl and Lapwing (Andy Hirst).

20th February Around Kings Wood today were 7 Chaffinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Treecreeper, 2 Nuthatch, 4 Buzzard, 5 Yellowhammer and 10 Long-tailed Tit. Around Lingodell were 4 Greylag Goose and 6 Red-legged Partridge plus 4 Brown Hare (Alfie Bloor).

18th February 2 Little Egret in trees at Penny Piece, South Anston, before flying off >E early morning (Mick Clay). Little Egret still present at Kiveton Pit Top (Alan Bateman), this plus the 3 birds at Carlton in Lindrick means there are currently 5-6 birds around locally.

Little Egret @ Kiveton Pit Top © Alan Bateman

17th February From Kings Wood Corner this morning were 8 Buzzard, 70 Fieldfare >NE, 36 Lapwing >SE, 10 Lesser Black-backed Gull >N, 16 Red-legged Partridge, 4 Coal Tit, 4 Long-tailed Tit, 4 Stock Dove, 2 Nuthatch, Marsh Tit, Raven, 3 Siskin >N and 6 Chaffinch. At Langold Lake were 10 Great Crested Grebe, 33 Mallard, 18 Tufted Duck, 23 Coot, 8 Mute Swan, 12 Greylag Goose, 3 Buzzard, 15 Pochard, 11 Siskin, Heron, Green Woodpecker and 250 Woodpigeon (Andy Hirst). In Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2 Raven and Little Owl. At NAPT were 25 Snipe and 3 Jack Snipe (Mick Clay, Andy Murray, Brian Chambers & Alfie Bloor).

Goosanders @ Langold Lake © Brian Chambers

16th February At Carlton Lake today were 3 Little Egret and 65 Greylag Goose. At Hodsock were 100 Starling, 100 Lapwing, 300 Black-headed Gull, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and 30 Linnet (John Gallagher). A trip around SK58 Water sites included the following: At Roche Abbey were 8 Teal, Little Grebe & 8 Mallard. At Langold Lake were 95 Canada Goose, 8 Greylag Goose, 3m & 4f Goosander, 8 Great Crested Grebe, 8 Mute Swan, 44 Mallard, 13 Coot, 11 Pochard, 2 Heron and 5 Moorhen. At Carlton Lake were 54 Greylag Goose, 13 Canada Goose, 2 Mute Swan, & a Little Egret. At Hewett Arms Pond were 50 Greylag Goose, 5 Canada Goose and 6 Mallard (Brian Chambers).

15th February At Dinnington Marsh today were 2 Willow Tit and a Woodcock (Mick Clay).

12th February At Axle Lane this morning were 35 Cormorants on the ponds, 60 Fieldfare over and a steady passage of Herring Gull >S (Mick Clay).

11th February Ten members attended the Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among 36 species recorded were, 9 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Heron, 9 Mute Swan, 5 Greylag Goose, 106 Canada Goose, single Gadwall, 21 Mallard, 15 Pochard, 12 Tufted Duck, 6 Goosander (1m 5f), Sparrowhawk, 4 Buzzard, Herring Gull, 6 Dunnock, 20 Robin, 1 each of Song Thrush, Redwing and Mistle Thrush, 9 Long-tailed Tit, Marsh Tit, 3 Nuthatch, 3 Treecreeper, 17 Goldfinch and 3 Bullfinch (Geoff & Lyn Facer). Early evening and Tawny Owls calling at Old Spring Wood, Hawks Wood and Smarson Hills Wood plus Barn Owl in Harry Croft’s Quarry (Mick Clay).

10th February At Harry Croft's Quarry today were hunting Barn Owl, 2 Raven and Little Owl. Dusk at NAPT revealed Woodcock & at least 12 Snipe (Mick Clay).

9th February At Axle Lane this afternoon were 7 Grey Partridge, 2 Heron, c20 Skylark, 9 Linnet, 7 Cormorant, a Buzzard and c30 Redwing (Alfie Bloor). A Barn Owl hunting late at night around Brampton Straight Mile (Mick Clay).

8th February A Little Egret remains at Kiveton Waters (Kiveton Pit Top) (Alan Bateman). This means there are 3 birds in SK58 currently, with 2 birds in he Carlton in Lindrick area.

2nd February A Barn Owl hunting at near dusk in Harry Croft's Quarry (Alfie & Paul Bloor).

30th January At Axle Lane today were f Peregrine sat in field plus 14 Golden Plover and 60 Fieldfare (Mick Clay).

27th January Early morning at Dinnington Marsh produced 10 Black-headed Gull, 3-5 Woodcock, 4 Stock Dove, 5 Robin, 6 Blue Tit, Willow Tit, 6 Magpie, Buzzard, 5 Bullfinch, Jay, 8 Mallard, 2 Coot and a Heron. The wildfowl count began at Langold Lake with 6 Great Crested Grebe, 36 Mallard, 16 Coot, 8 Mute Swan, 16 Tufted Duck, Common Gull, 66 Black-headed Gull, 2 Heron, 28 Pochard, 12 Greylag Goose, 10 Moorhen, 6 Siskin and 6 Goldfinch. At nearby Carlton Lake were 16 Greylag Goose, 2 Little Egret and 7 Mallard. Down the road at Brown Bailey's were 11 Coot, Little Grebe, a pair of Great Crested Grebe, 8 Mallard and 43 Tufted Duck. A rather quiet Hewett Arms Pond produced 2 Coot, 2 Mallard and 3 Cormorant. Firbeck Hall was also quiet with just 7 Mallard, 6 Greylag Goose, 3 Moorhen and 2 Coot. Roche Abbey was the final destination, producing Marsh Tit, m Kestrel, 3 Mallard and 12 Siskin (Andy Hirst).

24th January At Kiveton Pit Top (Kiveton Community Woodland), a Little Egret still present, in stream near amphitheater (Alan Bateman).

22nd January A Little Egret at the N end of Kiveton Pit Top (Kiveton Community Woodland) this morning (Alan Bateman).

21st January Barn Owl at Harry Croft's Quarry (a live one!) and Tawny Owl in Smarson Hills Wood (Mick Clay).

20th January A Waxwing briefly on Brandsmere Drive, Woodsetts this afternoon (Sheila Newsome & Ruth Brown). At Carlton Lake this morning were 26 Greylag Goose, 5 Black-headed Gull, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 13 Mallard, Mute Swan, Heron, Tufted Duck and 96 Pink-footed Goose > low NW. At nearby Langold Lake were Green Woodpecker, 8 Mute Swan, 12 Tufted Duck, 11 Coot, 51 Mallard, 90 Pink-footed Goose > SE (same as Carlton lake birds?), 16 Pochard, 21 Black-headed Gull, 2 Heron, 5 Moorhen, Water Rail, c40 Siskin and Kingfisher. At Brown Bailey's Pond were 8 Coot, at least 2 Little Grebe, 39 Tufted Duck, a pair of Great Crested Grebe, 10 Mallard, 3m, 1f Gadwall and a m Shoveler and at Woodsetts a single Waxwing again and at NAPT, 9 Snipe (Andy Hirst). 3 skeins of Pink-footed Goose, totaling 450 birds >W over South Anston (Mick Clay).

17th January c100 Pink-footed Goose >W over South Anston (Mick Clay).

16th January c390 (150+190+50) Pink-footed Goose >NW over Woodsetts (Gareth Picton).

14th January Eight members took part in the Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among 43 species recorded were 7 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Grey Heron, 7 Mute Swan, 17 Greylag Geese, 200 Canada Geese, 27 Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, 23 Goosander, 2 Buzzard, Kingfisher, Green Woodpecker, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, Grey Wagtail, 10 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing, 11 Long-tailed Tit, Coal Tit, 4 Nuthatch, 3 Brambling, Greenfinch, 16 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin, 5 Lesser Redpoll and 6 Bullfinch (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

13th January Early morning at Grange Farm, near Loscar were 11 Yellowhammer, 4 Blackbird, c20 Chaffinch, 19 Goldfinch, 6 Black-headed Gull, 4 Lesser Black-backed Gull >S, 3 Herring Gull >S and a m Sparrowhawk. In Harry Croft's Quarry were Raven, Great Black-backed Gull >N, 2 Herring Gull >N, Little Owl, 9 Redwing >W, Buzzard and Grey Wagtail >S. Around Roche Abbey were Grey Wagtail, 13 Teal, 1m, 2f Bullfinch, f Kestrel and Marsh Tit. From a blustery Hodsock were c50 Linnet, m Sparrowhawk, a single flock of 33 Stock Dove, 2 Yellowhammer, 4 Pied Wagtail, 8 Herring Gull >N, c10 Tree Sparrow (Andy Hirst).

10th January At Roche Abbey were 9 Teal. At Hodsock were large flocks of birds including; 100 Linnet, 15 Chaffinch and 30 Tree Sparrow feeding on possibly Millet seed crop. 100 Starling, 80 Fieldfare 4 Reed Bunting and 10 Grey Partridge (Brian Chambers).

8th January A f Peregrine hunting at Axle Lane today, plus 38 Meadow Pipit (Mick Clay).

6th January From Anston Stones Wood today were c14 Great Tit, c40 Woodpigeon, Buzzard, 5 Coal Tit, 4 Grey Wagtail, 6 Blackbird, c15 Blue Tit, and Brambling (Alfie Bloor).

5th January At NAPT this morning were 7 Snipe, 11 +4 Cormorant >S, 76 Woodpigeon, 6 Robin, 9 Blackbird, 3 Mistle Thrush, 12 Linnet, 15 Goldfinch, 27 Black-headed Gull, 33 Lesser Black-backed Gull >S in parties of 4-10, 2ad, 2 1st W Great Black-backed Gull >S, Common Gull >S, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Green Woodpecker, Kestrel, Buzzard, 7 Starling, 5 Rook, 2 Song Thrush, 7 Bullfinch and 10 Long-tailed Tit. At Carlton Lake were 10 Black-headed Gull, 3 Moorhen, 2 Mute Swan and 5 Mallard. At nearby Langold Lake were 6 Great Crested Grebe, 26m 3f Pochard, 6ad. 2imm. Mute Swan, c300 Canada Goose, 12 Greylag Goose, 9 Coot, Heron, 43 Mallard, Kingfisher, 400 Black-headed Gull, 2 Common Gull, 6 Moorhen, feeding party of 43 Chaffinch with 3 Brambling and 4 Siskin and Lesser Redpoll at Thurcroft Pit Top (Andy Hirst). At Hodsock today were 51 Lapwing and imm. Peregrine. Roche Abbey held 11 Teal, 2 Grey Wagtail and 2 Little Grebe. From Stubbing Wood were 100 Yellowhammer and 2 Brambling (John Gallagher).

4th January At Tommy Flockton's Marsh today were 4 Teal and 20 Redwing. At nearby Kiveton Pit Top records included 18 Cormorant circling over the fishing ponds, 6 Mallard, Kestrel, 14 Blackbird, 7 Redwing, 13 Magpie and 5 Bullfinch (Brian Chambers). 20 Golden Plover at Axle Lane today (Mick Clay).

3rd January A walk around the woodlands at Roche Abbey produced 5 Robin, 2 flocks of c10 Long-tailed Tit, 4 Teal, 3 Buzzard, 2 Mallard, c10 Blackbird and c40-50 Woodpigeon (Alfie Bloor).

1st January Peregrine over Dinnington Marsh today (Andy Murray). At Harry Croft's Quarry today were 100 Fieldfare and 2 Raven over Smarson Hill's Wood (Mick Clay).

29th December The groups annual post Christmas walk took us from Firbeck to Roche Abbey via Kings Wood and returning by Stone. On a blustery morning eleven members set off from the Black Lion. Stopping briefly at the entrance to Firbeck Hall, now sadly almost derelict and overgrown. Picking up a few common birds here such as Coal Tit. We headed north across the fields towards Stubbing Wood. The wind was stronger over the open fields, so little was seen. However we scanned and picked up a few Skylark as well c30 Linnet feeding on Maize game cover plus 6 Buzzard on the skyline towards Oldcotes and a Cormorant. Continuing around the wood we picked up an imm f Peregrine making its way along the tree line, no doubt on the look out for an easy meal, we then picked up an ad m Peregrine- a pair? As well as c20 Pheasant which had thus far escaped the guns. A party of 14 Yellowhammer flew away from us towards Kings Wood, as we made our way towards Lingodell. Here were 28 Greylag Geese. In the fields were c50 Starling, a rare sight in rural locations these days.

Making our way around the back of Kings Wood and down towards Roche Abbey we picked up a small party of Siskin, they seem scarcer this year. It was more sheltered in the valley bottom and walking towards Roche Abbey we picked up Nuthatch, Grey Wagtail, 3 Bullfinch and 4 Teal on the Laughton Pond. From the Gatehouse we had Kingfisher and modest parties of Fieldfare, Siskin and Goldfinch around the Abbey itself. Returning to Firbeck via Stone we recorded several passing gulls including Lesser Black-backed Gull and Herring Gull. Back in Firbeck by 1300, we descended on the Black Lion for a welcome drink and what proved to be very popular posh fish finger sandwiches for lunch, concluding another excellent SK58 Birders walk (Andy Hirst).

23rd December At a very damp Dinnington Marsh were 3 Willow Tit, 5 Woodcock, 14 Mallard, f Sparrowhawk, 45 Fieldfare, 8 Blackbird, 2 Bullfinch, 6 Magpie, Lesser Redpoll and Buzzard. At Harry Croft's Quarry were 6 Herring Gull >N, 50 Fieldfare, Little Owl, 2 Yellowhammer, Barn Owl hunting late morning, 4 Blackbird and 2 Great Black-backed Gull >N. At Carlton Lake were Heron, Little Egret, 4 Blackbird, Buzzard, 6 Coot, 4 Moorhen, 14 Mallard, m Gadwall, 2 Mute Swan (and an imm Mute Swan dead on the ground after hitting overhead wires (feathers on the cables), on a nearby footpath- incidentally, bird was unringed).

22nd December 2 Water Rail at Kiveton Pit Top today (Mick Clay).

16th December Early morning at Tommy Flockton's Marsh produced 4 Mallard , 8 Teal, c20 Redwing and 12 Fieldfare (Andy Hirst). Water Rail here later (Mick Clay). NAPT held 2 Buzzard, 7 Snipe, 4 Bullfinch, 13 Blackbird, 8 Robin, Common Gull, 4 Herring Gull, 9 Black-headed Gull, 15 Woodpigeon, 3 Dunnock, 2 House Sparrow, 36 Redwing, 35 Fieldfare, 3 Reed Bunting, 5 Meadow Pipit and 6 Blue Tit. Late morning at Kings Wood Corner revealed 11 Buzzard, 2 Nuthatch, a pair of Sparrowhawk, 3 Cormorant >S and a Jay (Andy Hirst). At Langold Lake were 48 Mallard, 21 Coot, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Mute Swan, 11 Tufted Duck, 11 Moorhen, 2 Brambling, 14m, 3f Pochard, 8 Siskin, 2 Kingfisher chasing each other, 2 Common Gull and 4 Cormorant >S (Andy Hirst & John Gallagher). From Buckwood Farm were 3 Blackbird, Cormorant >S, c35 Starling and a Buzzard (no sign of the large finch flocks present last winter) (Andy Hirst). At nearby Hodsock were 150 Linnet, 50 Reed Bunting, 60 Siskin, 80 Tree Sparrow, 50 Greenfinch, 40 Skylark, 100 Starling, 150 Fieldfare and single Brambling (John Gallagher).

13th December 25 Pink-footed Goose >W over South Anston at 0930 (Mick Clay).

11th December Skeins of c200 Pink-footed Goose >W over South Anston and c400 >W over North Anston (Andy Murray).

10th December Six members took part in the December midweek walk at Langold Lake. Among 35 species recorded were 7 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Heron, 13 Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, m Goosander, Kestrel, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 9 Fieldfare, 6 Redwing, 2 Mistle Thrush, 6 Nuthatch, 16 Siskin and a m Bullfinch (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

9th December At Thorpe Salvin today were 350 Fieldfare, Peregrine and possible m Goshawk (John Gallagher). At Kiveton Pit top today were Water Rail calling, Chiffchaff, Green Woodpecker, 40 Fieldfare, 30 Redwing, 9 Bullfinch and a Buzzard (Mick Clay). Circa 100 Pink-footed Goose >E over Anston Stones Wood early morning (Andy Murray).

2nd December At Roche Abbey today were 12 Teal, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, Kingfisher, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Great Spotted Woodpecker. At Langold Lake were 7 Pochard, Water Rail, 2 Kingfisher and a pair of Shoveler on Langold Holt, plus 40 Mallard, 6 Gadwall, Grey Wagtail and 3 Jay. Nearby Hodsock produced 80 Tree Sparrow. Carlton Lake held 5 Goosander. Fields near Throapham held 12 Grey Partridge (John Gallagher).

1st December A damp Harry Crofts Quarry produced m&f Kestrel, 2 Raven, 41 Blackbird, 15 Song Thrush, 36 Fieldfare, 4 Bullfinch, 60 Linnet and 5 Yellowhammer (Mick Clay).