SK58 Birders- Latest Bird News

previous updates: 28/12/2019 - 22/12/2019

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Bird Records Per Year

Species List- Current Year

Species List Yearly Archive

Earliest & Latest Migrants within SK58

Submitted & Accepted Rare Bird Descriptions

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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.

31st December Circa 1000 Pink-footed Geese >W over South Anston and the Chesterfield Canal between 0900 and 1100 in 9 skeins and at Tommy Flockton's Marsh were 22 Wigeon, m Shoveler, 2 Gadwall, a Teal and 29 Redwing. Along First Lane were Raven & 4 Buzzard (Mick Clay).

29th December at Tommy Flockton's Marsh today were 22 Wigeon (Mick Clay).

28th December At Langold Lake today were 12 Tufted Duck & 5 Pochard (Mick Scott).

27th December At in Harry Crofts Quarry today were 2 Raven, Jack Snipe, 100 Fieldfare >S and a Grey Wagtail (Mick Clay).

22nd December This morning around Langold Lake were 9 Pochard, 8 Tufted Duck, 30 Mallard flying in. Greater Spotted Woodpecker and Green Woodpecker calling (Mick Scott). At Axle Lane were 15 Skylark, 30 Fieldfare, 40 Linnet and 20 Yellowhammer (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

21st December c200 Pink-footed Goose >SW over South Anston (Geoff & Lyn Facer). Off Oldcotes Road by Long Thwaite Wood were 1000 Starling and 2 Peregrine plus 2 skeins of 75 & 200 Pink-footed Goose >W (John Gallagher).

15th December At Thurcroft Pit Top today were 70 Pink-footed Goose >W, 2 Buzzard, Kestrel, 16 Fieldfare and a Song Thrush (Mick Clay).

13th December Birds at Langold Lake today included 40-50 Goldfinch and a Little Grebe (Mick Scott).

11th December At Axle Lane today wereYellow-legged Gull with 20 Black-headed Gull and 2 Great Black-backed Gull >S plus 40 Skylark (Mick Clay).

10th December A pair of Shoveler still present at Langold Lake (Mick Scott).

9th December Five members took part in the Monday walk at Langold Lake. Among species recorded were, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 57 Canada Goose, 7 Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, 3 Buzzard, 16 Moorhen, Kingfisher, 12 Robin, 34 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, Song Thrush, 10 Long-tailed Tit and a Nuthatch (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

8th December At Langold Lake today were Kingfisher, Little Grebe and 4m Pochard on main lake, m&f Shoveler on small pond and close by were 2 Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and 28 Chaffinch (Mick Clay). Over Brookhouse were 4 Shelduck >SW. At Roche Abbey were 2 Marsh Tit and single Marsh Tit at Stone (John Gallagher & John Williamson).

7th December A walk from Laughten-en-le-Morthen to Firbeck and return produced- Along Eastfield Lane were 38 Redwing, 26 Herring Gull >W, 6 Robin, 8 Blackbird, 2 Mallard, Cormorant, 3 Buzzard, 2 Stock Dove, 59 Golden Plover, 11 Greylag Goose >E, 3 Siskin and 21 Red-legged Partridge. Around Roche Abbey were Jay, 6 Chaffinch, 3 Nuthatch, a pair of Grey Wagtail, 3 Mallard, 3 Teal, Little Grebe, 21 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Herring Gull, Kestrel, Buzzard and a Heron. Around Stubbings Wood were 5 Yellowhammer, 6 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Skylark, c300 Linnet in old rape/ set aside, 14 Black-headed Gull and 2 Buzzard. At Lingodell were 23 Starling and 700 Woodpigeon (Andy Hirst).

6th December A Brambling and Tawny Owl in Long Thwaite Wood (John Williamson). At Langold Lake today were a pair of Shoveler still and 3 Brambling in the old pit yard (Mick Scott).

5th December A pair of Shoveler at Langold Lake today (Mick Scott).

2nd December At Axle Lane today were 150 Skylark, 9 Pied Wagtail, 50 Fieldfare, 60 Golden Plover and 5 Greylag Goose >W (Mick Clay).

1st December At Carlton Lake today were Water Rail and 4 f Goosander (John Gallagher & John Williamson).

24th November At Langold Pit Top today were Woodcock, 50 Fieldfare, 50 Redwing, 2 Kestrel and 700 Woodpigeon. At Brampton Common near Common Farm, were 100 Fieldfare, Little Owl, Grey Wagtail, Buzzard, Kestrel, 37 Greylag Goose >E, 50> W and 100 Black-headed Gull >S (Mick Clay).

22nd November A Woodcock from the old pit premises at Langold Lake (Mick Scott).

16th November c250 Pink-footed Goose >NE over NAPT whilst tree planting (Mick Clay).

14th November At Langold Lake were 15-20 Siskin and c40 Goldfinch (Mick Scott).

11th November Seven members took part in the monthly walk at Langold Lake. Water levels were very high and murky following the recent downpours. Species recorded included, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 45 Canada Goose, 53 Mallard, 3 Pochard, 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Buzzard, Kestrel, Kingfisher, 3 Mistle Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, Treecreeper and c30 Goldfinch (Geoff & Lyn Facer).

10th November A few hours around NAPT this morning produced 13 Blackbirds, 26 Redwing, 6 Dunnock, 4 Bullfinch, 37 Starling, Common Gull >S, Lesser Redpoll >S, 2 Cormorant, 22 Black-headed Gull >SW, 4 Meadow Pipit, f Kestrel, 3 Skylark, Grey Wagtail and a m Sparrowhawk. At Hodsock were 60 Pink-footed Goose >SE, 8 Buzzard, 6 Common Gull, 150 Black-headed Gull, 4 Great Black-backed Gull, 19 Starling, 9 Skylark, 150 Golden Plover >N, m Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. A spell at Kings Wood Corner yielded 2 Cormorant >NE and 6 Buzzard (Andy Hirst). Early morning over Lingodell revealed c100 Pink-footed Goose >E, plus a further 100 Pink-footed Goose over Kings Wood Corner, 16 Buzzard and 4 Siskin (Andy Murray).

6th November Single Brambling at Langold Lake this morning, plus Tawny Owl (Mick Scott).

3rd November A skein of 150-200 Pink-footed Goose >E over Langold Lake today (Mick Scott). Also at Langold Lake were a pair of Shoveler, 5 Pochard, Kingfisher, Sparrowhawk, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Green Woodpecker and 100 Pink-footed Goose >E (same as previous observer?). Hodsock Flash held 45 Lapwing, 120 Black-headed Gull and 9 Great Black-backed Gull. In the wider area were Great Spotted Woodpecker, 50 Golden Plover >S and f Merlin hunting Skylarks (John Gallagher). At Brancliffe Grange, Shireoaks were 2 Raven >W, 25 Lapwing and 2 Buzzard. At Harry Croft's Quarry were 2 Buzzard, Raven, 3 Kestrel, 2 Snipe and a Jack Snipe. At Lindrick Dale were 3 Buzzard (Andy Murray & Mick Clay). At Thurcroft Pit Top were 3 Buzzard and a further 2 Buzzard at Brampton Common (Mick Clay).

Imm. Sparrowhawk @ Todwick © Ray Sykes

2nd November 5 Pochard at Langold Lake today (Mick Scott).

1st November Hoopoe present for its third day around Brancliffe Grange, Turnerwood in miserable weather. Actively feeding around the buildings of the hamlet and sheltering from the adverse weather in open barn windows (Andy Hirst, Tom Marshall, Sarah Bird, Barry Cartwright & BirdGuides). CLICK HERE for gallery images of the Hoopoe. Many thanks to the photographers for allowing SK58 Birders to use their images.

Hoopoe @ Brancliffe Grange © Andy Hirst

31st October Hoopoe present for its second day around Brancliffe Grange, Turnerwood, actively feeding and showing very well (Mick Clay, Brian Chambers, Geoff Facer, David Franklin, & BirdGuides).

30th October A Hoopoe reported from Brancliffe Grange, Turnerwood today (per BirdGuides). Possible Water Rail at Langold Lake today plus 40 Goldfinch, 7 Pochard, 7 Tufted Duck, and a skein o c100 Pink-footed Goose >W (Mick Scott).

29th October Skein of around 50 geese, presumably Pink-footed Goose, >W over Langold Pit Top. Plus a pair of Buzzard and a few Redwing around (Mick Scott).

28th October At least 3 Yellow-legged Gull with c60 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Axle Lane this morning (Mick Clay). At Smarson Hills were 9 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 50 Yellowhammer and a couple of Reed Bunting. Along the Chesterfield Canal from Thorpe Bridge to Norwood Tunnel were Grey Heron, 9 Moorhen, Kingfisher and 30 Redwing. At Tommy Flockton's Marsh were Gadwall, 17 Teal and 25 Mallard. Flying over were a Sparrowhawk and 50 Fieldfare (Geoff & Lyn Facer). Over South Anston were c100 Pink-footed Goose >W with a further c200 Pink-footed Goose >N at Langold Lake. Also here were 2 Buzzard and 2 more Buzzard over Gildingwells (Mick Clay).

27th October At Langold Lake today were m& f Shoveler on top pond, 20 Pochard,7 Great crested Grebe, 3 Buzzard, Kestrel, Green Woodpecker, 4 Nuthatch, Treecreeper and a late >S. In Harry Croft's Quarry were Raven and Little Owl. At Axle a 100 Pink-footed Goose >E, Buzzard, Kestrel, 30 Linnet and 60 Skylark (Mick Clay).

25th October In Harry Croft's Quarry this morning were Kestrel, Buzzard, Raven, c200 Meadow Pipit, 7 Grey Partridge, 2 Mallard 3 Jay and a Barn Owl (Alfie Bloor).

23rd October An imm. Peregrine hunting over Axle Lane (Mick Clay).

21st October At Axle Lane today were 34 Golden Plover, 100 Black-headed Gull, a very pale juv. Buzzard feeding in a ploughed field, 120 Redwing and 38 Fieldfare >W (Mick Clay).

20th October Several hours in Harry Croft's Quarry this morning produced just 5 Linnet, 15 Meadow Pipit, 12 Yellowhammer, 6 Pied Wagtail, 4 Robin, 6 Blackbird, 358 Redwing mainly >SW, 2 Little Owl, 4 Greylag Goose >S, m Kestrel, 2 Fieldfare, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Mallard, Brambling, 8 Skylark, 7 Grey Partridge, plus a Skua spp in close proximity to a Lesser Black-backed Gull, but high and distant! 3 Buzzard and a m Sparrowhawk. At Langold Lake were 42 Mallard, single Tufted Duck, 14 Coot, 4 ad, 1 imm. Great Crested Grebe, 91 Black-headed Gull, 8 Pochard, 6 Moorhen, a Siskin and a Heron (Andy Hirst). Earlier at Langold Lake were 54 Fieldfare and 92 Redwing >W, 3 Buzzard, 3 Kestrel, 13 Pochard and 10 Great crested Grebe (Mick Clay).

19th October 203 Pink-footed Goose >E over Harry Croft's Quarry, plus m Stonechat, Sparrowhawk, Raven, Little Owl, 46 Meadow Pipit, and Lesser Redpoll >S (Mick Clay). At Carlton Lake today were Jay, Heron, 13 Greylag Goose, 25 Black-headed Gull, 2 Kingfisher and a Little Egret (John Gallagher).

18th October A Yellow-legged Gull at Axle Lane this morning plus 150 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 32 Golden Plover and good movement of Meadow Pipit & Skylark (Mick Clay).

Meadow Pipit @ Axle Lane © Alfie Bloor

15th October At least 250 Canada Goose at Langold Lake today, plus 5 Pochard and 15 Black-headed Gull (Mick Scott).

14th October Seven members took part in the monthly Langold Lake walk. Species recorded included 8 Great Crested Grebe, 6 Mute Swan, 4 Greylag Goose, 135 Canada Goose, 10m Pochard, a m Tufted Duck, Sparrowhawk, 2 Kestrel, Grey Wagtail, 4 Pied Wagtail, 2 Mistle Thrush, 17 Long-tailed Tit and 4 Nuthatch (Geoff & Lyn Facer). 250 Pink-footed Goose >W over Laughton Common (John Gallagher).

13th October Early morning at Tommy Flockton's Marsh revealed 9 Mallard, m Shoveler, a pair of Gadwall, and 2 Moorhen. A very brief visit to Harry Croft's Quarry produced 5 Blackbird, 28 Jackdaw, 5 Linnet, 5 Robin, 7 Long-tailed Tits, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Jay >S (Andy Hirst). At Harry Croft's Quarry were Jack Snipe, 6 Grey Partridge, Raven, Little Owl, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, Jay and 2 Chiffchaff (John Gallagher).

12th October 70 Golden Plover at Axle Lane plus c200 Linnet, c40 Meadow Pipit, 2 Mallard, 8 Skylark and 23 Lesser Black-backed Gull. At NAPT were single Kestrel & Buzzard and at Harry Croft's Quarry were 2 Kestrel, 3 Buzzard, 2 Stock Dove, Little Owl calling, c100 Meadow Pipit, and c40 Fieldfare
(Alfie Bloor). At Carr were 7 Buzzard, 2 Kestrel, 2 Sparrowhawk, Jay, 100 Meadow Pipit, 70 Skylark and 3 Chiffchaff. Thurcroft Pit Top produced 16 Grey Partridge, 8 Snipe and 2 Jack Snipe (John Gallagher). This morning at Tommy Flockton's Marsh were a m Gadwall, 8 Teal, 12 Mallard and a m Shoveler. Along the Kiveton stretch of the Chesterfield Canal were Mistle Thrush and 3 Bullfinch (Geoff Facer).

11th October At Axle Lane today were 3 Swallow >S and at Kiveton Pit Top were 2, possibly 3 Water Rail calling, also 2 Chiffchaff, Lesser Redpoll and 2 Buzzard (Mick Clay).

10th October 3 House Martin over Laughton Common (John Gallagher). 2 House Martin >S over Axle Lane (Mick Clay).

9th October 2 Swallow and 4 Redwing >S at Axle Lane this morning (Mick Clay).

8th October Early morning at NAPT produced Water Rail from Cramfit, 2 Goldcrest, 4 Bullfinch, 5 Reed Bunting, 3 Chiffchaff, 107 Redwing >S, 12 Blackbird, 9 Magpie, 3 Kestrel, Jay >S, 3 Meadow Pipit, Lesser Redpoll >S, 4 Grey Wagtail, 5 Black-headed Gull, 57 Skylark >S, 4 Song Thrush, 6 Dunnock, Siskin >S and 2 Cormorant. At Dinnington Marsh were 4 Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, and a Kestrel (Andy Hirst). Over Axle Lane were 35 Redwing and a good passage of Skylark (Mick Clay).

6th October A few single Redwing over a Woodsetts garden this afternoon (Gareth Picton). Circa 100 Skylark in fields by Throapham and 4 Redwing over Church Lane, Dinnington in the dark (John Gallagher).

5th October Little Egret back at Kiveton Waters (Kiveton Pit Top) (Alan Bateman). Single House Martin over Laughton Common today (John Gallagher).

4th October At Axle Lane this morning were 2 Redwing >S, 127 Golden Plover and 200 Lesser Black- backed Gull on the fields (Mick Clay).

3rd October In Harry Croft's Quarry this afternoon were 2 Buzzard, 2 Raven, 7 Grey Partridge, a Chiffchaff, 4 Skylark, Kestrel and 5 Meadow Pipit (Alfie Bloor).

2nd October At Axle Lane this morning were 57 Golden Plover, 100 Skylark and 6 Swallow >S and at 30 Pink-footed Goose >SE over Oldcotes (Mick Clay).

30th September Circa 40 Pink-footed Goose >E over Laughton Common this morning (Andy Murray). At Axle Lane were 100 Golden Plover circling, 250 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 200 Skylark and 150 Meadow Pipit >S (Mick Clay).

28th September At Axle Lane this morning were a Wheatear, 57 Golden Plover, 150 Skylark >S and 250 Lesser Black-backed Gull. At Langold Lake were 4 Buzzard, Kingfisher, 4 Great Crested Grebe plus 2 juv's, m Green Woodpecker and a Tawny Owl (Mick Clay).

27th September Still 47 Golden Plover at Axle Lane today (Mick Clay).

26th September At Axle Lane Golden Plover numbers increased to 47 (Mick Clay).

17th September In Swinston Hill Wood last night were 2 Tawny Owl. There was also 3 Barn Owl in fields nearby (Alfie Bloor).

16th September A Raven perched on the phone mast within Windmill Plantation (Andy Murray). 4 members took part in the Monday walk at Langold Lake. Records included, 5 Great Crested Grebe with 2 juvs, 5 Mute Swan with 1 juv, 9 Canada Goose, 40 Mallard, 4 Buzzard, Kestrel, 12 Moorhen, 29 Coot, a Tawny Owl which called from the colliery buildings, 2 Kingfisher, a Great Spotted Woodpecker, c60 House Martin, a Grey Wagtail, 4 Pied Wagtail, 5 Dunnock, 18 Robin, 21 Blackbird, a Mistle Thrush, Whitethroat, Chiffchaff, 4 Nuthatch and 2 Jay (Geoff & Lyn Facer). At Axle Lane this afternoon were 2 Wheatear and 14 Golden Plover (Mick Clay).

14th September At Axle Lane today were 19 Golden Plover and a Wheatear (Mick Clay). Over Lodge Lane today were Peregrine and Kestrel. By Carlton Lake were 3 Chiffchaff, Kestrel and 12 House Martin. Hodsock held 50 Tree Sparrow, 2 Kestrel, 2 Sparrowhawk and 10 Chiffchaff (John Gallagher).

13th September Early morning at Axle Lane revealed 2 Song Thrush, 23 Meadow Pipit, 9 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 387 Linnet, Heron, 56 Mallard, 8 Golden Plover, 4 Skylark, 2 Greylag Goose, Kestrel, imm m Sparrowhawk and 12 House Martin. At Harry Croft's Quarry were Lesser Whitethroat, m & f Sparrowhawk, ad & imm. Buzzard, c50 Goldfinch, 4 Whitethroat, 8 Chiffchaff, f-type Wheatear >SW, 2 Jay, 6 Yellowhammer, Little Owl and 4 Stock Dove (Andy Hirst & Mick Clay). At Roche Abbey were Buzzard, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 4 Robin, 5 Moorhen, 13 Teal, Bullfinch and 2 Treecreeper. Langold Lake produced 5ad & 1imm Mute Swan, 25 Coot, 28 Mallard, 6ad & 3juv. Great Crested Grebe, 12 Moorhen, 18 House Martin, ad. Heron, 2 Tufted Duck, 6 Swallow, Kingfisher, 2 Nuthatch, f Grey Wagtail and 3 Blackbird (Andy Hirst). Earlier at Langold Lake today were Red Kite and 2 Buzzard. Over Langold Pit Top were Hobby and 2 Kestrel (Mick Scott).

10th September At Axle Lane this morning was a steady movement of Swallow, House Martin and Meadow Pipit also 8 Golden Plover and 4 Buzzard. A Tawny Owl & 2 Buzzard in and around Swinston Hill Wood (Alfie Bloor).

9th September A Stonechat at Axle Lane this morning, plus Wheatear, Yellow Wagtail >S. Late afternoon a f Wheatear & 5 Golden Plover (Mick Clay). A Hobby hunting House Martins over Laughton Common (John Gallagher).

8th September At Harry Croft's Quarry today were 5 Buzzard, 2 Raven and Greenshank calling, 5 Swift >S and 4 Buzzard over Hawks Wood (Andy Murray & Mick Clay). At Axle Lane f Peregrine and 6 Buzzard (Mick Clay).

7th September At Axle Lane a f Wheatear, Yellow Wagtail >S and 8 Golden Plover. At Harry Croft's Quarry 2 Little Owl, 27 Grey Partridge and 21 Yellowhammer (Brian Chambers & Mick Clay).

6th September At Axle Lane today were 2 Wheatear on the wall, 400 Linnet and 2 Swift >S (Mick Clay), plus 4 Golden Plover (Brian Chambers).

5th September A probable pair of Hobby over Langold Pit Top today (Mick Scott). The m Redstart still present at Axle Lane as well as 400-500 Linnet and 3 Golden Plover (Mick Clay), plus 2 Wheatear and a hunting Hobby here (Alfie Bloor).

4th September The m Redstart still present along Axle Lane, towards the Todwick end (Mick Clay). Also 2 Wheatear on the wall at the Todwick end, plus "huge" numbers of Swallow over the the stubble here (Brian Chambers). 2 Kingfisher at Langold Lake today (Mick Scott).

3rd September At Harry Croft's Quarry today a Buzzard with juv, Sparrowhawk, 3 Kestrel,100 Jackdaw, 6 Yellowhammer and 5 Chiffchaff (Mick Clay). Also a Wheatear at Axle Lane (Brian Chambers). Also at Axle Lane were the first returning Golden Plover with 3 landing in the stubble field by the A57, m Redstart still along the wall at the Todwick end in mature trees and close by a juv. Wheatear, 4 Whitethroat and 36 Meadow Pipit >S, 40 Swallow and 30 House Martin (Mick Clay).

2nd September At Axle Lane a m Redstart on the wall. The first here for me in 34 years. Also here were 2 Whitethroat, 100 Linnet, 100+ Swallow and 100+ House Martin and a steady passage of Meadow Pipit >S (Mick Clay). At Langold Lake today were Grey Wagtail, an ad & juv. Great Crested Grebe, 2 Buzzard and this years Mute Swan Cygnet is almost fully grown (Mick Scott).

1st September At Harry Croft's Quarry today were Raven, 2 Buzzard plus juv., Sparrowhawk, 60 Jackdaw, 23 Stock Dove, 4 Yellowhammer, 3 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat and 4 Chiffchaff (Mick Clay). At NAPT this morning were 15 Chiffchaff, Nuthatch, 11 Great Tit, 3 Robin, 4 Bullfinch, 24 House Martin, 4 Blackbird, 12 Meadow Pipit, 2 Kestrel, 19 Starling, 2 Stock Dove, 6 Blue Tit, 19 Lesser Black-backed Gull >S, Jay, Sparrowhawk, 7 Black-headed Gull, Sedge Warbler by the hide, 3 Buzzard, 2 Blackcap, juv. Whitethroat and 6 Long-tailed Tit. At Langold Lake were 5ad. & 2juv. Great Crested Grebe, 6 Mute Swan, 43 Mallard, 31 Coot, Grey Wagtail, 64 House Martin, 6 Swallow, 6 Moorhen, a f Tufted Duck plus 2juv, an ad. & imm. Heron, 3 Chiffchaff and 2 Greylag Goose (Andy Hirst). A Spotted Flycatcher in Anston Stones Wood today (Andy Murray).

29th August An imm m Redstart in Harry Croft's Quarry today, as well as 2 Buzzard, 4 Kestrel, 3 Whitethroat, 12 Yellowhammer, 6 Coot, Sparrowhawk, c20 Linnet and a Heron >N, plus 4 Buzzard by Swinston Hill Wood (Alfie Bloor).

26th August Early morning at Tinkerhole Dike produced female type Redstart, Grey Wagtail >S, 12 Swallow >S, 7 Chiffchaff, 5 Robin, 5 Wren, Bullfinch, 4 Blackcap, 2 Mistle Thrush, Buzzard, Great Spotted Woodpecker, and 6 Collared Dove. At Harry Croft's Quarry were an ad & imm. Buzzard, a pair of Coot plus 2 juv, 4 Yellow Wagtail >S, c50 Goldfinch, 25 Linnet, Lapwing >NW, 12 Stock Dove, 11 Chiffchaff, 3 Yellowhammer, 2 imm. Kestrel, 6 juv. Whitethroat, 3 Blackcap, 21 Lesser Black-backed Gull >SW, 7 Swallow, Little Owl, 3 Grey Partridge, m Sparrowhawk and a Snipe. Hodsock held little apart from 4 Yellow Wagtail and 2 Chiffchaff (Andy Hirst).

Tinkerhole Dike >NE @ Dawn © Andy Hirst

23rd August At Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2 Buzzard with 2 juv's, Raven, Little Owl, 27 Stock Dove, 12 Yellowhammer, juv. Wheatear , 7 Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, 4 Blackcap,7 Whitethroat and 2 Yellow Wagtail >S (Mick Clay).

21st August An evening visit at Harry Crofts Quarry yielded 2 Raven coming in to roost, 3 hunting Barn Owl, possibly 4 Little Owl calling and close by Tawny Owls calling at Hawks Wood,Smarson Hills Wood and Anston Stones Wood (Andy Murray & Mick Clay). Also Peregrine over Laughton Common early morning (Mick Clay).

18th August At Harry Croft's Quarry today were Buzzard with juv, 2 Kestrel, 2 Little Owl, 31 Stock Dove, 6 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap & c100 Goldfinch (Mick Clay).

17th August At Langold Lake today were 2 Raven >W, Buzzard with juv, 150 Swift >S with Hobby close by. A Kestrel, 11 Swallow and single Sand Martin over lake, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 pairs of Great Crested Grebe one with 3 juv's, the other with 1. At Harry Croft's Quarry were Buzzard with juv, 5 Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, Little Owl and at Axle Lane 2 Buzzard and 22 Swallow >S (Mick Clay).

13th August Early morning in Harry Croft's Quarry produced Green Sandpiper calling, Buzzard & 2 juv's, 3 Kestrel, f Sparrowhawk, 3 Little Owl and 5 Willow Warbler (Mick Clay). 2-3 Quail singing from fields off Swinston Hill Road, Dinnington, plus f Wheatear on Brands Lane (Alfie Bloor).

12th August At Axle Lane a Peregrine chasing Woodpigeons (Mick Clay).

11th August A Hobby hunting House Martin over South Anston, and what was presumably the same bird hawking Dragonflies in Harry Croft's Quarry (Mick Clay). Also there today were 4 Kestrel, a Barn Owl, Sparrowhawk, 2 Buzzard plus 2 juv's, 2 Raven, c90 Linnet, Whitethroat, 60 Jackdaw, and 21 Grey Partridge (Mick Clay & Alfie Bloor).

10th August 2 Green Sandpiper on flooded sections of Harry Croft's Quarry this morning (Dave Ball).

9th August A Greenshank over Laughton Common during rain storm (John Gallagher).

4th August Tree Pipit >S over over Harry Croft's Quarry, plus Buzzard, 2 Kestrel, Barn Owl, Little Owl, m Green Woodpecker, 8 Chiffchaff, 6 Whitethroat and 8 Yellowhammer plus a good number of Peacock and Painted Lady butterflies (Mick Clay).

2nd August Quail calling from 2100 in bare field by Swinston Hill Wood (Alfie Bloor). Plus c500 Swift >S over Axle Lane (Mick Clay).

1st August In Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2 Buzzard, 2 Little Owl, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, 4 Chiffchaff, 4 Whitethroat. 7 Yellowhammer, 2 Reed Bunting, 16 Long-tailed Tit and 100 Goldfinch (Mick Clay).

30th July At Harry Croft's Quarry were 2 Buzzard, 2 Raven, 3 Kestrel, m Green Woodpecker, 4 Chiffchaff and 7 Whitethroat also butterflies: 169 Peacock, 158 Painted Lady, 6 Tortoiseshell, 6 Red Admiral, 7 Gatekeeper, 7 Small Skipper, Small Copper, 12 Small White, 10 Green-veined White and a Common Blue (Mick Clay).

29th July Over Axle Lane were c500 Swift >S (Mick Clay).

28th July At Langold Lake today were Common Tern, plus Tufted Duck with 5 juv's (Mick Scott).

27th July At Carr today was a single Little Owl. Nearby Thurcroft Pit Top held 46 House Martin, 3 Buzzard, 2 Blackcap, 3 Willow Warbler, 150 Goldfinch, Bullfinch, 21 Linnet, ad & juv m Kestrel, 7 Chiffchaff, 8 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 8 Black-headed Gull, 4 Yellowhammer, 3 Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Yellow Wagtail, 5 Skylark, 4 Reed Bunting, 6 Whitethroat, Grey Partridge and Treecreeper. A rather quiet Roche Abbey produced 3 Nuthatch, Chiffchaff, 6 Mallard and 2ad & 5juv. Moorhen, plus single Reed Warbler at NAPT (Andy Hirst).

26th July Back in Harry Croft's Quarry were 2 Buzzard, Kestrel, Little Owl, 4 Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, 13 Yellowhammer (many juv's), 150 Goldfinch, Green Woodpecker and 9 Stock Dove (Mick Clay).

25th July In Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2 Kestrel, m Sparrowhawk, Little Owl, juv. Redstart, 3 Whitethroat, 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler and 2 Raven (Mick Clay).

24th July In Harry Croft's Quarry today were 3 Kestrel, Barn Owl drying out, Little Owl, juv. Redstart, 6 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 14 Yellowhammer (many juv's), Yellow Wagtail and Tree Sparrow (Mick Clay).

21st July At Thurcroft Pit Top today were 2 Sedge Warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, 10 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler, 11 Whitethroat, Yellow Wagtail, 2 Buzzard and a Kestrel. Butterflies here included 42 Gate Keeper, 7 Ringlet, 17 Meadow Brown, single Peacock, 13 Tortoiseshell, 3 Red Admiral, 5 Painted Lady, 12 Small Skipper and 27 Small White butterflies. At Carr a Little Owl in farm buildings and >S over South Anston, a Hobby (Mick Clay).

18th July In Harry Croft's Quarry today were 2juv Kestrel, c50 Linnet, 2 Skylark, 11 Yellowhammer, 17 Whitethroat, 5 Grey Partridge, c100 Rook and a Moorhen (Alfie Bloor & Mick Clay).

17th July At Axle Lane were 160 Swift, which appeared to be going >S, also a single Chiffchaff on the wall (Mick Clay).

15th July Along Axle Lane today were 10 Whitethroat, mainly juvs from two nests, also m Yellow Wagtail. Late evening at Penny Piece produced 2 Tawny Owl and single Little Owl (Mick Clay).

14th July At Axle Lane, a juv. Little Owl towards the Todwick end (Mick Clay).

13th July At Axle Lane today were 54 House Sparrow (many juv's) and at Harry Croft's Quarry were 5 juv. Kestrel, 14 Whitethroat, 10 Yellowhammer, 10 Stock Dove and 60 Rook (Mick Clay).

10th July Just on our boundaries, a Grasshopper Warbler reeling at Kiveton Pit Top (Alan Bateman). And a Quail calling at Brampton Common. Also Tawny Owl and Little Owl with juv. calling, 3 Song Thrush, 63 Swift, 27 Swallow and 3 Buzzard (Andy Murray & Mick Clay).

8th July At Langold Lake today were 2 Common Tern and a Green Woodpecker (Mick Scott).

7th July Little Owl on the same wire again at Cumwell Lane, Thurcroft, at the junction with Newhall Road this evening. Also 2 Little Owl on the barn at Carr (Chris Tyler). A 140 Swift over Axle Lane today. At Langold Lake and Pit Top were 7 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff, 2 Whitethroat, 5 Nuthatch, m Green Woodpecker with a single juv, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Buzzard and a single Common Tern. Also 453 + Meadow Brown, 44 Ringlet, 6 Small Heath, 5 Small Skipper, single Painted Lady, 2 Red Admiral and 38 Marbled White Butterfly, which are now spreading over the pit top (Mick Clay).

6th July At Axle Lane today were 7 Whitethroat including 5 juv's and 94 Swift. At NAPT were 2 Reed Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff, 5 Whitethroat, Kestrel and a Buzzard. Also 43 Meadow Brown, 34 Ringlet, 20 Small Heath, 6 Small Skipper and single Painted Lady Butterfly (Mick Clay).

5th July Hobby >E over Butchers Arms, Woodsetts (Gareth Picton).

4th July An evening drive produced a Little Owl on the Newhall Road junction with Cumwell Lane (between Carr & Thurcroft) on the wires. A Little Owl on the barn roof at Carr. And an ad. Barn Owl at Slade Hooton, sat on the box ledge, no hissing heard (Chris Tyler).

1st July At Owday Lane, a Hobby hunting, 2 Buzzard and 3m Yellow Wagtail (Andy Murray & Mick Clay). Kingfisher at Langold lake (Mick Scott).

28th June At Gateford Lake this morning were 7 Mallard, 2 Sand Martin, Whitethroat, Blackcap, 8 House Martin, Moorhen & juv, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chiffchaff, Skylark and 30 Starling. In Harry Croft's Quarry were 60 Goldfinch including many juv's, 9 Skylark, 11 Yellowhammer, 4 Whitethroat, 8 Linnet, 4 Stock Dove, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Grey Partridge, Lesser Whitethroat, Sparrowhawk, Raven and f Kestrel. At Hodsock were 28 Swallow, 4 Whitethroat, 3 Buzzard, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 4 Skylark, 6 Linnet and a m Yellow Wagtail. Nearby Langold Lake produced Buzzard, 11 Greylag Goose, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 9ad, 1juv Mute Swan, 28 Mallard, 18ad & 5juv Coot, a pair of Tufted Duck, 14 Swift and Moorhen. A quick visit to NAPT produced 3 Reed Bunting, 2 Reed Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Buzzard, 3 Whitethroat, f Kestrel and f Sparrowhawk (Andy Hirst).

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).

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).

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.

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).

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).