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est. 1992

website est. 1996

Submit your SK58 sightings by email Bird News Archive (previous years) Earliest & Latest Migrants within SK58 Records Per Year Species List this year Species List Yearly Archive

PDF monthly recording sheet Microsoft Excel recording sheet. Print off & post/ save & email to the recorder as an attachment. free Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader Why record birds? 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. Sites below do not imply any right of access or public right of way-contact us for further details.

20th June At Buckwood Farm were 4 Swift and a Lesser Whitethroat. At Langold Lake were 8 Mute Swan with 2 juvs., 2 Great Crested Grebe and a nest on the north side of the island plus a Common Sandpiper (south side of the island) (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

17th June Thirty mins from a raptor watchpoint in the E of SK58 produced a pair of Hobby, Buzzard, Kestrel, 30 Swift, 50 Woodpigeon, Song Thrush, 3 Blackbird, 4 Stock Dove, 2 Yellowhammer and a Yellow Wagtail (Andy Hirst).

16th June Red Kite over Firbeck Lane, Laughton this morning (Peter Lax). A further (or possibly same bird?) Red Kite over SE corner of Woodsetts late afternoon (Gareth Picton).

15th June Red Kite over Dog Kennel Lane, South Anston, mid-afternoon (Andy Murray).

10th June At Langold Lake first thing were 2 Common Tern, 2 Heron, 35 Mallard, 4ad. & 4 juv. Mute Swan, 12 Coot, 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 6 Greylag Goose and 2 Moorhen. At Carlton Lake were 2 Mute Swan, Great Crested Grebe, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3imm. & ad.Heron and Jay. Around Roche Abbey were singing Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Song Thrush, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 14 Mallard and Bullfinch. At NAPT were 4 Reed Warbler singing- 3 actually in Cramfit Pond and a single bird singing from the new crescent corner reedbed (Andy Hirst).

Yellow Wagtail @ Gateford © Brian Chambers

2nd June A Spotted Flycatcher by the ruins in Roche Abbey (John O'Malley per Mick Clay). Highlights from a Tetrad I survey (Kirkcroft Road) were 21 House Martin, 17 Blackbird, 7 Greenfinch, 2 Tree Sparrow, 11 Skylark and 3 Yellowhammer. From Tetrad P around Roche Abbey and Kings Wood were Red Kite, 7 Blackcap, 5 Song Thrush, Marsh Tit, 12 Mallard and 7 Greylag Goose. From Tetrad Z were 7 Whitethroat, 12 Blackbird, Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Skylark, 6 Dunnock, 2 Yellowhammer and Buzzard. And finally from Tetrad N were 19 Skylark and Yellow Wagtail (Andy Hirst).

Great Tit @ Todwick © Ray Sykes

26th May At NAPT this morning were 3 Sedge Warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, 7 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff, 9 Robin, 5 House Sparrow, 13 Blackbird, 3 Skylark, 6 Meadow Pipit, 7 Lesser Black-backed Gull >N, a steady passage of Swift, Swallow & House Martin >N, 6 Stock Dove, 5 Mallard, 3 Song Thrush, 5 ad Lapwing plus 3 juv's and 3 Buzzard. Hodsock has nearly dried out, so little except for 5 Lapwing and a juv, 3 Buzzard, 14 Skylark, 8 Mallard, Yellow Wagtail and 15 Swift. At Langold Lake was a m Garganey, this the groups second ever record, the first was in April 2007. A much overdue reoccurrence. From Kings Wood Corner were 4 Buzzard, c30 Swift and a m Sparrowhawk (Andy Hirst).

Garganey @ Langold Lake © Andy Hirst

13th May At Harry Croft's Quarry this morning were 5 Whitethroat, 6 Yellowhammer, 2 Buzzard, 7 Swallow, 7 Skylark, 5 Linnet, 4 Pied Wagtail, 5 Stock Dove, Yellow Wagtail >N and Sand Martin >S. In and around Long Thwaite Wood today were 8 Skylark, 14 Carrion Crow, 13 Chaffinch, 4 Stock Dove, 6 Blackbird, 6 Blackcap, Buzzard, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Song Thrush, Kestrel and 2 Grey Partridge. From Kings Wood Corner were 9 Buzzard, 6 House Martin, m Kestrel, Great Spotted Woodpecker, m Sparrowhawk and a Swift. At Roche Abbey today were 3 Chiffchaff, 3m Gadwall, a pair of Grey Wagtail, 6 Blackcap, Coot, 4 Mallard and a Moorhen. From a withheld location within the square were Hobby, 5 Buzzard, Kestrel and Yellow Wagtail (Andy Hirst). Hobby >N over a Woodsetts garden today (Gareth Picton).

Lapwing @ NAPT © Brian Chambers

Lapwing chick @ NAPT © Brian Chambers

10th May At Axle Lane today were Swift, 2 Swallow, 5 Yellow Wagtail and 2 Whitethroat (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

7th May At NAPT early morning were 5 Blackcap, 7 Robin, 4 Dunnock, 5 Great Tit, 6 Blackbird, 3 Bullfinch, 41 Starling, 6 Willow Warbler, 3 Skylark, 33 Linnet, 4 Reed Bunting, 9 Chaffinch, 8 Whitethroat, 2 House Martin, 3 Meadow Pipit, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, Sand Martin >S, 4 Swallow, 3 pairs of Lapwing, 2 Black-headed Gull, 4 Greylag Goose, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, m Kestrel, a very late Lesser Redpoll, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gull >N, Buzzard & Heron. At Langold Lake, among the masses were Sand Martin >S, 3 Swallow, 3 pairs of Great Crested Grebe, 6 Mute Swan, 21 Mallard, 10 Greylag Goose, 3 Tufted Duck, 8 Coot, 2 Buzzard, Heron, Black-headed Gull and 6 Blackcap. Hodsock is holding water, but only produced 4 Lapwing, 3 Buzzard and Heron (Andy Hirst).

Sedge Warbler @ NAPT © Brian Chambers

6th May In Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2 Raven and 2 Mute Swan (Andy Murray).

5th May Early morning at Tommy Flockton's Marsh were Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Skylark, a pair of Gadwall, 2 Whitethroat and 3 Mallard. At Axle Lane were 7 House Sparrow, 5 Blackbird, 2 Whitethroat, 16 Starling, Song Thrush, 39 Carrion Crow, 13 Skylark, 2m, 1f Wheatear, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 3 Swallow and 2 Mallard. At Thurcroft Marsh this evening were 'reeling' Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Whitethroat, Garden Warbler, 2 Reed Bunting, Green Woodpecker, a pair of Willow Tit and a Buzzard. At NAPT today were 4 Lapwing, Reed Warbler, 4 Greylag Goose, 6 Mallard, 3 Reed Bunting and a Buzzard. From Kings Wood Corner in 30 mins were 6 Buzzard, 2 Kestrel and a m Sparrowhawk. From Broom Farm today were 6 Buzzard and 2 Yellow Wagtail (Andy Hirst).

3rd May At NAPT were 2 Buzzard, 2 Kestrel, Little Ringed Plover, 2 Lapwing, 2 Swallow, Wheatear, Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Whitethroat, 5 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler and 3 Reed Bunting. At Dinnington Marsh were Kestrel, 2 Blackcap, Chiffchaff and 3 Willow Warbler. At Laughton Common (Mineral Trail) were Kestrel, 2 Lapwing, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff & Willow Warbler (Geoff & Lyn Facer). Also at NAPT today were 4m Mallard, Buzzard, mobbed by Lesser Black-backed Gulls, m Kestrel, 2 Lapwing, 2 Stock Dove, 16 Starling & 2 Meadow Pipit (Pete Kenworthy).

NAPT © Pete Kenworthy

2nd May 2 Yellow Wagtail at Axle Lane (Geoff Facer).

29th April From Harry Croft's Quarry today were 12 Buzzard, 2 Little Owl, 2 Barn Owl and 2 Raven (Andy Murray).

28th April At NAPT this morning were Reed Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler, Sedge Warbler, 5 Reed Bunting, 4 Mallard, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, 18 Linnet, 13 Lapwing inc. a single nest, Grey Wagtail, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Bullfinch, m Sparrowhawk and 2 Greylag Goose (Andy Hirst). Barn Owl at Harry Croft's Quarry this evening (Andy Murray).

Whitethroat @ NAPT © Brian Chambers

27th April 2 Barn Owl hunting in field adjacent to Thornbury Animal Sanctuary at 0530 (John Gallagher).

25th April Along Kirkcroft Road today were 4 Tree Sparrow, Yellow Wagtail, 9 Skylark, 4 Yellowhammer and a Buzzard (Andy Hirst). A pair of Buzzard at Langold Lake, plus 11 Greylag Goose, 2 pairs of Great Crested Grebe (Mick Scott).

23rd April A Whinchat in horse paddocks, off Abbey Lane at Slade Hooton (Brian Chambers).

21st April A good couple of hours around Carlton Wood early morning produced 16 Blue Tit, 13 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 7 Song Thrush, 10 Wren, 6 Treecreeper, 11 Robin, 8 Buzzard over and from Carlton Wood, m Sparrowhawk displaying, 6 Nuthatch, Heron, 2m & 1f Great Spotted Woodpecker and Green Woodpecker. At nearby Carlton Lake were 27 Greylag Goose, a pair of Mute Swan, 4 Coot, a pair of Tufted Duck, Great Crested Grebe on a nest and a pair of Whitethroat plus 5 Hares chasing around in the next field. A brief visit to NAPT produced singing Sedge Warbler, 3 Reed Bunting, 4 Greylag Goose, 2 Lapwing and 2 Lesser Whitethroat. Around Harry Croft's Quarry were 4 Skylark, Raven, 6 Mallard, 2 Blackcap, Green Woodpecker, 9 Linnet, Sand Martin >S, Little Owl, 4 Buzzard, Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Whitethroat and 2 Swallow. Langold Lake held 9 Tufted Duck, 5 Mute Swan, 12 Greylag Goose, 4 Great Crested Grebe and 13 Mallard. Later that afternoon Thurcroft Marsh revealed 3 Bullfinch, 3 Willow Warbler, 4 Blackcap and a pair of Willow Tit (Andy Hirst).

20th April A Swift over North Anston today (Andy Murray).

18th April A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker in Carlton Wood today (Mick Clay per Andy Murray).

16th April 2 Raven flew over woods East of Woodsetts at 0845 (Barry Cartwright).

15th April Red Kite again, low over Harry Croft's Quarry (Andy Murray & Mick Clay).

14th April Wardening the hide at NAPT this morning produced single Lapwing, Little Ringed Plover >N, 9 Goldfinch, 6 Reed Bunting, 5 Wren, 3 Siskin >NW, 7 Chiffchaff, 18 Linnet, 3 Skylark, 6 Swallow >N, 6 Mallard, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 4 Greylag Goose, 3 Sand Martin >S, 3 Kestrel, Heron, 2 Buzzard, Cormorant & Sparrowhawk (Andy Hirst). 2 Yellow Wagtail at Harry Croft's Quarry (Mick Clay). 2 Shelduck >W over Harry Croft's Quarry this afternoon (Andy Murray).

12th April 20- 30 Swallow & House Martin at Langold Lake today (Mick Scott).

11th April Corn Bunting again at Axle Lane, singing in dense fog (Mick Clay). A Brambling in a North Anston garden today (Phil Broadhead).

9th April Twelve members took part in the Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among 39 species recorded were, 4 Great Crested Grebe, a pair of Mute Swan nesting on the top lake with 5 more on the main lake, 8 Greylag Geese, 48 Canada Geese, Gadwall, 10 Tufted Duck, 4 Buzzard, Kestrel, Green Woodpecker, a pair of Great Spotted Woodpecker, Skylark, c20 Sand Martin, 2 Swallow, 6 Song Thrush, 4 Redwing, 2 Mistle Thrush, 6 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldcrest and 7 Nuthatch (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

8th April At Tommy Flockton's Marsh this morning were Cormorant, 2 Chiffchaff, 6 Mallard, a pair of Teal, a pair of Kestrel and a Grey Wagtail. At North Anston Pit Top were singing Blackcap, 7 Chiffchaff, 7 Reed Bunting, 22 Linnet, 4 Willow Warbler, 5 Mallard, Jay high >S, 4 Sand Martin >S, 4 Fieldfare >NE, Greylag Goose >SW and a single Lapwing. Harry Croft's Quarry held 8 Linnet, 3 Reed Bunting, Kestrel, 8 Yellowhammer, 8 Buzzard, Cormorant >N, 4 Lapwing, 2 Swallow >N, f Wheatear, Raven and Little Owl. Hodsock was pretty quiet with just 3 Buzzard, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 3 Skylark and a Lapwing. From Thornbury Hill this afternoon were 6 Yellowhammer, 6 Chaffinch, 4 Buzzard, m Blackcap, 2 Jay, 7 Skylark, 3 Swallow >N, 18 Linnet, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and Stock Dove (Andy Hirst).

Full wader scrape @ North Anston Pit Top © Andy Hirst

7th April At NAPT today were Willow Warbler and 4 Sand Martin (John Gallagher). This morning at Harry Croft's Quarry were m Wheatear, 2 Raven and 2 Little Owl (Brian Chambers). 2 Swallow over a Todwick garden this morning (Geoff Downs). 5 Sand Martin over Brown Bailey's today (Andy Hirst).

Wheatear m @ Harry Croft's Quarry © Brian Chambers

6th April Barn Owl, Little Ringed Plover and 2 Swallow at Harry Croft's Quarry today (Andy Murray).

5th April 2 House Martin and a Swallow over Langold Lake today (Mick Scott). 4 m Wheatear at Axle Lane today (Mick Clay).

3rd April The first Corn Bunting for 5 years at Axle Lane today. Doubt it will attract a mate (Mick Clay).

High water level @ NAPT (North Anston Pit Top) © Andy Hirst

1st April Early morning at NAPT produced a Barn Owl hunting and mobbing a Carrion Crow, 3 Chiffchaff, 4 Robin, 14 Goldfinch, 5 Reed Bunting, 40 Woodpigeon, 4 Mallard, 3 Lapwing, 3 Stock Dove, 17 Linnet, 6 Magpie, a pair of Kestrel, 3 Snipe on far pond, 3 Meadow Pipit displaying, 3 Bullfinch and 8 Golden Plover >W. Around Harry Crofts Quarry were 3 Yellowhammer, c40 Skylark, 4 Pied Wagtail, 6 Linnet, m Wheatear, a pair of Raven, 2 pairs of Mallard, 2 Little Owl and Grey Partridge (Andy Hirst), plus Red Kite >NW (Mick Clay, Andy Murray & Andy Hirst). An hour from Kings Wood Corner this afternoon produced 8 Buzzard, Kestrel, 2 Cormorant, Heron, 120 Golden Plover >NW and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull >NW. Langold Lake revealed just 4 Tufted Duck, 15 Coot, 8 Mute Swan, 19 Mallard, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 9 Moorhen, Buzzard, Green Woodpecker, 5 Chiffchaff and 2 Black-headed Gull. Nearby Hodsock has flooded again and held 4 Lesser Back-backed Gull, 2 Black-headed Gull and a Lapwing (more to come from here hopefully), plus Kestrel, 2 Buzzard, 42 Fieldfare and c40 Linnet. Nearby Carlton Lake produced 19 Greylag Goose, a pair of Mute Swan and a f Goosander. Brown Baileys Pond was quiet, with just 8 Coot, Mute Swan, 5 Mallard, 3 Tufted Duck, Great Crested Grebe and a Cormorant. The fields around Grange Farm, towards Loscar were cold and quiet, save for a Buzzard, 4 Yellowhammer and Kestrel (Andy Hirst).

31st March At Firbeck Hall, 7 Hawfinch still. At Hodsock were 120 Fieldfare (John Gallagher).

25th March An Osprey reported flying towards Langold Lake, also Chiffchaff here (Mick Scott).

24th March Chiffchaff at Langold Lake today (Mick Scott). At NAPT were Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, 4 Lapwing now back and 3 Stock Dove (Brian Chambers). At Harry Croft's Quarry late afternoon were 2 Little Owl and a Barn Owl (Andy Murray, Andy Hirst & Mick Clay).

Lapwing @ NAPT © Brian Chambers

23rd March A Red Kite over Firbeck this morning, also 6 Teal and 6 Mallard at Roche Abbey (Brian Chambers).

22nd March A m Blackcap in Brook Walk today (Paul Tennyson).

21st March In Harry Crofts Quarry today were 2 Grey Wagtail, Kestrel, 2 pairs of Mallard, Buzzard, 2 Skylark and Little Owl. At NAPT late afternoon were Cormorant >S, 3 Kestrel, 9 Magpie and 44 Black-headed Gull on the overflow field (Andy Hirst).

18th March A very snowy and wintry NAPT produced several small flocks of Fieldfare >N totaling 49, 10 Snipe over the wader scrape, 7 Meadow Pipit, 2 Stock Dove, 4 Wren, 33 Black-headed Gull, the first returning Lapwing, 34 Redwing >E, a pair of Kestrel, m Sparrowhawk, 2 Linnet, 3 Common Gull >E, 3 Mallard, 6 Chaffinch, and 5 Bullfinch. Langold Lake Held 32 Mallard, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Tufted Duck, just 12 Coot, 7 Mute Swan including a pair displaying, 106 Black-headed Gull, flocks of 20 & 40 Siskin, Common Gull, 9 Pochard, 2 Greylag Goose and 7 Moorhen. At Firbeck Hall, in far from ideal conditions were 2 Hawfinch still (more must still be around), 2 Buzzard mewing, m Sparrowhawk, 10 Mallard, 2 Tufted Duck, 4 Coot and 2 Greylag Goose (Andy Hirst).

Nuthatch @ Langold Lake © Andy Hirst

17th March A bit of a Greylag Goose morning with 7 at Langold Lake, 45 at Carlton Lake and 33 Hewett Arms Pond (Brian Chambers). At nearby Langold Lake were Kingfisher and c50 Siskin (Mick Scott).

Greylag Geese @ Hewett Arms Pond © Brian Chambers

14th March A pair of Buzzard, talon grappling at Langold Lake (Mick Scott).

12th March Five members attended a rather wet Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among the 26 species recorded were, Little Grebe, 10 Great Crested Grebe, 8 Mute Swan, 80 Canada Geese, 18 Mallard, 7 Pochard, 7 Tufted Duck, a pair of Goosander, 11 Moorhen, 26 Coot, Green Woodpecker, 2 Song Thrush, 3 Mistle Thrush, 8 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Nuthatch and a Treecreeper (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

Hawfinch @ Firbeck © Andy Hirst

11th March c60 Hawfinch feeding in the grounds of Firbeck Hall, also in treeline of the field N of Firbeck Hall. Plus 4 Nuthatch, 2 Greylag Goose >N, 6 Mallard, 4 Siskin, 3 Song Thrush, 5 Blackbird, 15 Goldfinch, 3 Stock Dove, Jay, 3 Pied Wagtail, Buzzard, m Peregrine >N and 10 Fieldfare. At Kings Wood Corner were m Kestrel, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Nuthatch, 3 Buzzard, 2m Great Spotted Woodpecker and a Mistle Thrush (Andy Hirst).

7th March 4 Song Thrush and a Grey Wagtail at the Todwick end of Axle Lane (Geoff Facer).

6th March A Barn Owl flew over Dog Kennel Lane, S. Anston at 1820 (Geoff Facer) and a Barn Owl at Harry Crofts Quarry (Andy Murray).

Cormorant @ Langold Lake © Brian Chambers

4th March At NAPT this morning (in the snow and fog) were 9 Goldfinch, 4 House Sparrow, Lesser Redpoll >E, 4 Blackbird and a single Snipe. At Langold Lake were 7 Mute Swan, 27 Mallard, 13 Coot, 11 Great Crested Grebe, 13 Tufted Duck, 19 Pochard, 22 Black-headed Gull and 10 Moorhen, plus 4 Treecreeper & 2 Nuthatch (Andy Hirst).

Roe Deer @ Buckwood Farm © Brian Chambers

3rd March A Raven >W over South Anston at midday and a f Merlin hunting Skylark at Axle Lane (Mick Clay). From a ringing site (garden) at Gateford were: 10 Redwing, 2 Fieldfare, 5 Song Thrush, 12 Blackbird, 2m Blackcap, 9 Goldfinch, Treecreeper, 2f 1m Great Spotted Woodpecker, Wren, 2 Dunnock, 2 Robin, 7 Jackdaw, 7 Long-tailed Tit, Coal Tit, 13 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove and a pair of Nuthatch (Richard Platts).

Fieldfare @ Todwick © Ray Sykes

2nd March A very bleak walk from Laughten en le Morthen to Roche Abbey and back, was bitter on the exposed parts due to the biting easterly wind. However from Slade Hills were Buzzard and small numbers of Fieldfare, plus a Kestrel. The strong wind keeping most birds down. Activity picked up in the valley bottom between Colonels Holt and Roche Abbey, with 6 Robin within 20m of each other. As well as 4 Blue Tit, 2 Great Tit, Coal Tit, Marsh Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Jay & Great Spotted Woodpecker. On Laughton Pond (pond at Roche Abbey) were 33 Teal and 2 Mallard, with 4 more Teal in the river by the car park. Lots of small parties (3-6 birds) of Fieldfare & Redwing searching the leaf litter for food. Several Siskin, but no big flocks. A bleak, windswept walk back to Laughton (Andy Hirst).

1st March Female Blackcap in a different Woodsetts garden today (Barry Cartwright).

27th February Male Blackcap in a Woodsetts garden today at feeders (Gareth Picton).

Blackcap @ Woodsetts © Barry Cartwright

26th February A report of c40+ Hawfinch in the grounds of Roche Abbey today (John O'Malley per Andy Murray).

Group above Lindrick @ Fanfield © Pete Kenworthy

25th February Around Kings Wood today were 25 Buzzard, 3 Raven, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. On the ground were 100+ Fieldfare and c25 Yellowhammer (Andy Murray & Mick Clay). Seven members attended the SK58 walk through Anston Stones Wood, Lindrick Dale, Brancliffe Grange to Shireoaks and back via the Chesterfield Canal. It was a crisp winters day as we made our way through Anston Stones Wood. There were lots of commoner woodland birds calling and in some cases actively displaying, including Blue Tits, Great Tits, Chaffinches, Goldcrest, Treecreeper and Nuthatch. The Rookery in Anston Stones Wood had yet to be recolonised, so the bottom end of the woodland was fairly quiet. Crossing over the busy A57, we ventured down Lindrick Dale. More common woodland birds were added, including Jay and Greenfinch, which appear to be making a bit of a comeback. Wildfowl were a bit thin on the ground with just 12 Mallard and 2 Tufted Duck present on Dale Ponds.

Group @ Chesterfield Canal © Pete Kenworthy

The highlight of the walk was a Woodcock, flushed from cover by Brancliffe Grange, this no doubt a continental bird contemplating the return journey. In Shireoaks we retreated to "Laura's Cafe" for a well deserved coffee and for some a breakfast. After which we headed further along the Chesterfield Canal, around Shireoaks Marina and onto to Shireoaks Pit Top. From the viewing point on top we picked out landmarks within the square. Alas it was pretty devoid of bird life save for 3 Buzzard, 2 Cormorant and c90 Lapwing >S.

Goldcrest @ Chesterfield Canal © Pete Kenworthy

Retracing our steps we followed the Chesterfield Canal back towards Kiveton. By now it was mid afternoon and bird activity had slowed and quietened down. The highlight on the way back was Marsh Tit by Old Spring Wood. Despite the lack of birds, a very pleasant walk was had. Tales of roast dinners and mugs of tea spurred on on tiring legs as we returned to where we started in Anston Parish car park at at 1500, some six hours after we left.

24th February At Roche Abbey were c100 Siskin. That evening 22 Whooper Swan went >NW low over Dinnington 20:00 (John Gallagher).

20th February 2 Little Egret this morning at Tommy Flockton's Marsh (Brian Chambers).

2 Little Egrets @ Tommy Flockton's Marsh © Brian Chambers

19th February A tour of SK58 Wetland Sites included the following species counts. At Roche Abbey were 12 Mallard and 7 Teal. Langold Lake held 15 Tufted Duck, 19 Coot, 8 Mute Swan, 61 Canada Goose, 8, 5m & 3f Goosander, 35 Mallard, 15 Moorhen, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Greylag Goose, 15, 11m & 4f Pochard, Heron and a pair of Gadwall. Carlton Lake revealed 4 Moorhen, 8 Coot, 2 Mute Swan, 2m Tufted Duck, 4 Mallard and 2 Greylag Goose. At Brown Bailey's were 14 Coot, Mute Swan, 2 Mallard, 26 Tufted Duck and 2 Great Crested Grebe. Hewett Arms Pond produced 5 Coot, 2 Heron, 4 Moorhen and Mallard (Brian Chambers). Wildfowl were obviously commuting, as this morning there were 6 4m & 2f Goosander on Langold Lake (Mick Scott).

18th February Over Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2 skeins of Pink-footed Goose >E and a Raven (Andy Murray). At Carlton Lake today were Kingfisher, 2 Song Thrush and a f Goosander. At Wallingwells Pond were a pair of Goosander and Kestrel. By Common Road, North Anston were 4 Grey Partridge and 3 Song Thrush (John Gallagher).

17th February At Carlton Lake this morning were 18 Greylag Goose, Little Egret, 4 Tufted Duck, 2 Mute Swan, 7 Moorhen, 6 Coot, 3 pairs of Goosander and 2 Mallard. From Kings Wood Corner were 6 Buzzard, 25 Fieldfare, 3 Stock Dove, 600 Woodpigeon, Heron, Tawny Owl calling, 2 Lapwing >S, Sparrowhawk and Raven >S. Down Lindrick Dale were f Sparrowhawk, Little Grebe, 5 Mallard & 5 Tufted Duck (Andy Hirst).

16th February A pair of Kingfisher at Langold Lake today, plus Red Kite over (Mick Scott). On Lindrick Dale Pond were 5 Little Grebe and a Buzzard and Raven over Smarsons Hill Wood (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

12th February 6 members took part in the Monday walk at Langold Lake today. Among the 37 species recorded were, 9 Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Grey Heron, 9 Mute Swan, 33 Canada Goose, a pair of Gadwall, 14 Pochard, 5 Tufted Duck, a pair of Goosander, 2 Buzzard, Kestrel, Common Gull, Kingfisher, 5 Nuthatch, Treecreeper and 2 Raven which flew over the top lake (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

9th February At Langold Lake today were the semi resident Cormorant on his post, 2 pair of Goosander, Great Crested Grebe, a displaying pair, Kingfisher darting by and the sound of several Nuthatch (Mick Scott).

5th February 2 Heron around Langold Lake today (Mick Scott).

4th February From Kings Wood Corner in 90 mins were 19 Buzzard, 2 Kestrel, 2 Sparrowhawk and 2 Cormorant (Andy Hirst). Over Harry Croft's Quarry were 2 Raven (Andy Hirst, Andy Murray & Chris Lilley).

3rd February At Harry Croft's Quarry this morning were Little Owl, 2 Raven, c30 Skylark, 4 Stock Dove, c40 Linnet and 2 Grey Partridge. At Langold Lake were 8 Mute Swan, 15 Coot, 14 Tufted Duck, 26 Mallard, 7 Great Crested Grebe inc. several pairs displaying. Plus 6 Moorhen, c40 Black-headed Gull, Cormorant, 14 Pochard, Heron, a pair of Goosander and 6 Siskin. At nearby Buckwood Farm in a stewardship crop were a mixed flock of c50 Chaffinch, at least 25 Brambling plus several Reed Bunting and Linnet. Nearby were Jay, skeins of c300 NW & 82 SW Pink-footed Goose and a Buzzard. Along Brands Lane were 6 Common Gull, 2 Lapwing, 17 Yellowhammer, 3 pairs of Reed Bunting, 2 Buzzard and a Raven >S. At Dinnington Marsh were single Cormorant >SW, Willow Tit and a Buzzard (Andy Hirst). c100 Pink-footed Goose >NW over Woodsetts at 1335 today (Gareth Picton).

30th January Stonechat still present in fields near Brancliffe Farm, N of railway tunnel (Brian Chambers).

Stonechat @ Brancliffe Grange © Brian Chambers

28th January A Stonechat in fields near Brancliffe Farm, N of railway tunnel (Farrel & Julie Kent).

26th January Several Brambling still present at Buckwood Farm, feeding on Millet (Brian Chambers). Cormorant present for several days now at Langold Lake (Mick Scott).

Brambling @ Buckwood Farm, Wallingwells © Brian Chambers

23rd January At a windy Langold Lake today were 2f Goosander and displaying Great Crested Grebe, plus 2 Kingfisher (Mick Scott).

22nd January Among a large flock of finches at Buckwood Farm, Wallingwells were at least 4 Brambling and a Lesser Redpoll. At Langold Lake were Great Crested Grebe, 132 Canada Goose, 19 Pochard, 8 Tufted Duck, 2 Buzzard, Green Woodpecker and 4 Nuthatch (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

21st January Along Lamb Lane, Dinnington were 2 Barn Owl hunting along hedgerows. Plus a Grey Wagtail visiting a garden pond regularly on Central Avenue, Dinnington (John Gallagher).

20th January At Thurcroft Pit Top this morning were 2 Green Woodpecker, 8 Stock Dove, 3 Snipe, Jack Snipe and 4 Herring Gull >S. At Roche Abbey were 2 Buzzard, c60 Siskin and 2 Marsh Tit. Passing Lingodell revealed 11 Greylag Goose and c40 Canada Goose. A frozen Brown Bailey's Pond produced 5 Greylag Goose and just 2 Coot. A farm yard at Slade Hooton revealed c25 Chaffinch and c40 Linnet. A brief visit to Langold Lake produced 41 Mallard, 12 Coot, 14 Tufted Duck, 4 Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, 5 Mute Swan, 89 Black-headed Gull, 2f Goosander, 6 Common Gull, 11 9m, 2f Pochard, Kingfisher and a Buzzard. Nearby Hodsock held 26 Lapwing, Buzzard, 12 Black-headed Gull, Grey Wagtail and 220 Fieldfare. Hodsock Sewage Works revealed 10 Black-headed Gull, and 26 Pied Wagtail. From Kings Wood Corner this afternoon were c1000 Woodpigeon, 2 Buzzard, 49 Yellowhammer roosting in game cover with Reed Bunting and Lesser Redpoll. Dusk at NAPT produced Water Rail, Barn Owl and Woodcock (Andy Hirst). At Dinnington Marsh this evening were 1-2 Barn Owl, 300 Fieldfare, an 'Asio' Owl, Tawny Owl and 4 Woodcock (Andy Murray).

16th January At a bitterly cold Langold Lake were c30 Goldfinch and 2-3 Brambling (Mick Scott).

14th January Several hours around NAPT was largely uneventful but added to the year list. These included 28 Goldfinch, 4 Song Thrush, 8 Robin, 10 Blackbird, 26 Magpie, 2 Meadow Pipit, there was a bit of gull passage with 13 Herring Gull mostly >SW, 25 Black-headed Gull, 2 Common Gull >S, 4 Great Black-backed Gull >SW, 3 Mallard, 28 Starling, 27 Fieldfare >S, 4 Stock Dove, 4 Bullfinch, Cormorant >S, 7 Snipe, a Water Rail calling from Cramfit Pond, Buzzard and 12 Long-tailed Tit (Andy Hirst).

12th January An early start in the dense fog at Tommy Flockton's Marsh produced 6 Teal, 10 Wigeon, 2 Mallard, 9 Common Gull >S, 2 Cormorant >N & 8 Redwing. Along the Mineral Line at Dinnington Marsh (in dense fog still) were 2 Mute Swan, 8 Bullfinch, 2 Coot, Willow Tit, 2 Mallard, Jay, c30 Pink-footed Goose (heard only- estimated) and 3 Lesser Redpoll. At nearby NAPT were a further c50 Pink-footed Goose heard >SE in fog, 3 Meadow Pipit, 13 Black-headed Gull, 11 Snipe, 2 Great Black-backed Gull >N, 8 Common Gull >SW & Kestrel. Harry Croft's Quarry (in now denser fog) revealed Kestrel, Little Owl and Grey Wagtail. Langold Lake held 12 Mute Swan, 37 Mallard, 25 Coot, 18 Tufted Duck, 82 Black-headed Gull, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 12 Common Gull, 8 Moorhen, 2m, 4f Goosander, Kingfisher, 2 Siskin, 14 (6f, 8m) Pochard and f Wigeon (Andy Hirst).

11th January At Tommy Flockton's Marsh today were 19 Mallard, 9 Teal and 6 Wigeon. Along the Chesterfield Canal between Norwood Tunnel and just beyond the footpath to South Anston were 20 Blue Tit, 12 Great Tit, Coal Tit, 10 Long-tailed Tit, Treecreeper, Nuthatch, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 10 Redwing & 45 Fieldfare. At Axle Lane Ponds were 4 Cormorant, Heron, Great Crested Grebe & 25 Fieldfare (Brian Chambers). At Langold Lake today were 2 Brambling by the boat house and Little Grebe (Mick Scott).

10th January 2 Raven >E over South Anston (Andy Murray).

8th January Seven members attended the Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among 39 species recorded were 3 Great Crested Grebe, Grey Heron, 2m 1f Pochard, 14 Tufted Duck, 3m 6f Goosander , Buzzard, 4 Common Gull, 2 Stock Dove, f Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, 2 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, 8 Nuthatch, Lesser Redpoll and c10 Reed Bunting (Geoff & Lyn Facer). Also here were 6 Greylag Goose and Red Kite along woodland edge (Mick Scott). Along the Chesterfield Canal between Shireoaks & Kiveton a Little Egret by lock 38 and a Hawfinch just W of Shireoaks Marina (Simon Mitchie).

Kingfisher (f) @ Langold Lake © Lyn Facer

1st January Raven calling over crags at Roche Abbey. Landed in a tree beyond Abbey then flew from the tree and landed in the field by the first buildings at Stone (Simon Mitchie). 3 Hawfinch here also (Andy Murray per John O'Malley). With 5 Hawfinch here also (per BirdGuides).

Grey Wagtail @ North Anston © Chris Lilley

30th December Five members convened at the Loyal Trooper for the ten minute drive to Firbeck, which was the departure point for our traditional post Christmas walk this year. The day was fair, but blustery as we set off along the track, crossing the fields to Stubbin Wood, around the wood to Kings Wood, which offered a shelter from the wind. There was steady passage of Great Black-backed Gull with several birds noted, as well as a few Herring Gull. The various stands of trees and woodland produced several Nuthatch, Stock Dove, Kestrel and Mistle Thrush and a total of 8 Buzzard. The hedgerows produced good numbers of Yellowhammer with at least 15-20 birds noted. The ploughed fields produced little, save for several Skylark. Lingodell was particularly blustery, being exposed. 23 Black-headed Gull and 2 Common Gull rose from the field with c40 Fieldfare feeding in the short grass. A brief detour up the side of Kings Wood gave relief from the wind and the game cover yielded several small finch flocks. Mostly Goldfinch and Chaffinch with several Linnet and at least 3 Brambling. We reached the top of Kings Wood and dropped down on to the path which would return the party to Roche Abbey on our return leg. The valley was surprisingly windy and revealed little. The pond at Roche Abbey held 7 Mallard and a pair of Gadwall. The walk back to Firbeck, via Stone did produce a very showy m Peregrine, which had been put off a kill (by Corvids) and was hesitant at leaving its meal. We reached the Black Lion at at Firbeck a little after 1pm, where a drinks and excellent food were very welcome. Not the most productive of days bird wise, but non the less and great way to shift the Christmas excesses (Andy Hirst).

28th December Over Stone today was a single Red Kite. At nearby Roche Abbey were 3 Marsh Tit (John Gallagher).

24th December 2 Little Egrets at Carlton Lake this morning (John Gallagher). Also a Chiffchaff at the Todwick end of Axle Lane, wall side path (Lyn & Geoff Facer).

23rd December At Buckwood Farm, Langold were 20 Brambling in a finch flock in Millet field (John Gallagher). Also a report of 2 "White Egrets" in a tall tree on south side of Carlton Lake (Dawn Ingham).

Fieldfare @ Buckwood Farm, Langold © John Gallagher

17th December A frozen and quiet Tommy Flockton's Marsh produced several inquisitive horses, as well as 7 Black-headed Gull, 4 Bullfinch, 3 Stock Dove, 17 Mallard, Heron, 25 Starling and 3 Common Gull. Langold Lake was 90% frozen, but held a modest amount of wildfowl including 8 Mute Swan, 2 Common Gull, Herring Gull, 24 Coot, 95 Mallard, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Tufted Duck, 10 Pochard, 8 Moorhen, Kingfisher and 19 Siskin. At nearby Hodsock were 2 Teal and 7 Mallard. Carlton Lake was again c80% frozen but held 19 Mallard, 3 Mute Swan, 2 Little Grebe, 8 Coot, 35 Black-headed Gull, 7 Moorhen, 7 Song Thrush, which flew from cover, Great Black-backed Gull plus Lesser Redpoll and Kestrel. Hewett Arms Pond was equally frozen holding just 28 Black-headed Gull with 2 Herring Gull and 2 Great Black-backed Gull >S. At Grange Farm, Loscar were 95 Golden Plover, 53 Black-headed Gull, 2 Buzzard, 2 Common Gull and a Yellowhammer (Andy Hirst).

16th December A Red Kite along Lamb Lane, near the turn off for Firbeck, flying back towards Dinnington (Andy Murray). At Langold Lake were 2 f Goosander, 14 Pochard, Kingfisher and Little Egret >NE (John Gallagher & Mick Clay). THERE ARE X2 MUSCOVY TYPE DUCKS HERE TOO.

13th December Red Kite patrolling along the Old Mineral Line, Dinnington-Laughton Common (Les Coe).

11th December At NAPT this evening were Tawny Owl and Barn Owl hunting plus 4 Snipe over (John Gallagher). At Carlton Lake were 2 Goosander and 18 Gadwall (Geoff & Lyn Facer). 5 members attended the Monday walk at Langold Lake. While checking out a flock of passerines on the rough field between the lake and the pit top we were rewarded with the sight of a cream-crown Marsh Harrier approaching from the direction of the pit top and passing almost overhead. Other species among 35 recorded were 7 Great Crested Grebe, Grey Heron, 5 Mute Swan with 3 juvs, 45 Mallard, 4 pairs of Pochard, 8 Tufted Duck, f Goosander, Sparrowhawk, 2 Buzzard, 9 Moorhen, 21 Coot, 58 Black-headed Gull, 4 Common Gull, Grey Wagtail, 26 Robin, 14 Blackbird, 15 Fieldfare, 2 Nuthatch, 50 Chaffinch, 4 Greenfinch, and 10 Reed Bunting (Geoff & Lyn Facer etal).

Snow @ Chesterfield Canal © Brian Chambers

10th December At Roche Abbey 3 Hawfinch still today (per BirdGuides).

9th December A trip around the water sites of SK58 on a cold & frosty morning included at Langold Lake, which was 85% iced over: 53 Mallard, 30 Coot, 8 Tufted Duck, 8 Great Crested Grebe, 8 Mute Swan, f Goosander, 1 Gadwall, 23 Moorhen and 8 Pochard. At Carlton Lake were 18 Gadwall, f Goosander, f Pochard and 2 Mute Swan. At Brown Bailey's was a single Great Crested Grebe (Brian Chambers). At Laughton Road shopping centre a Grey Wagtail, seen regularly by shop staff (John Gallagher).

5th December At Axle Lane today were were 9 Cormorant, clearly taking advantage of the fishery being closed. At Tommy Flockton's Marsh were 10 Wigeon.(Geoff Facer).

Grey Squirrel @ Chesterfield Canal © Brian Chambers

3rd December A quiet NAPT produced 10 Blackbird, 5 Dunnock, 4 Great Tit, c50 Woodpigeon, 12 Meadow Pipit, 7 Herring Gull >S, 2 Black-headed Gull, 4 Bullfinch, Siskin >S, 2 Reed Bunting and 120 Fieldfare >SW. Roche Abbey was equally quiet, with 170 Goldfinch, 37 Siskin, 6 Nuthatch, c20 Redwing, m Kestrel, 3 Marsh Tit, Yellowhammer, 3 Bullfinch, 4 Buzzard, a pair of Grey Wagtail, 2 Jay, 3 Song Thrush, Kingfisher, Lesser Redpoll >S, 5 Mallard and a Great Spotted Woodpecker (Andy Hirst). This evening, a Short-eared Owl at NAPT (Mick Clay).

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