UK BIRD SIGHTINGS DECEMBER
STAFFORDSHIRE HIGHLIGHTS: The Ring-necked Duck remained at Tittesworth Reservoir (to 19th at least). A Green-winged Teal was at Belvide Reservoir (12th), with a Smew there (1st), and a Grey Phalarope, Iceland Gull and Bittern (27th). Great White Egrets were at Middleton Lakes (3rd-17th) and Dosthill (17th). Six Hawfinches were at Upper Longdon (1st). A Velvet Scoter was at Chasewater (2nd-7th), with two at Aqualate Park (11th). A Bewick’s Swan was at Croxall mid-month. A Scaup was at Alvecote Pools (15th). A Yellow-browed Warbler was at Whittington in the second half of the month. WARWICKSHIRE ALVECOTE POOLS: Three Great White Egrets were regular. There were several Little Egrets, three Stonechats, a Cetti’s Warbler and two Barnacle Geese. BRANDON MARSH: Yellow-legged, Caspian and Great Black-backed Gulls were present. There was a Cetti’s Warbler, Chiffchaffs, a Little Egret, Peregrine, Shelduck and Willow Tit. DRAYCOTE: The Great Northern Diver was present for most of the month (to 24th). Five Scaup remained throughout. There was a Dunlin, Little Egret, Caspian and Yellow-legged Gulls, Chiffchaff, Tree Sparrows, Raven, Peregrine, Iceland Gull, Common Scoter, Rock Pipit and Pintail. EARLSWOOD LAKES: Highlights included a Firecrest, Marsh Tit, Raven, Egyptian Goose, Woodcock, Mandarin, Green Sandpiper and Little Egret. LADYWALK: A Siberian Chiffchaff was seen three times. There was a Great White Egret (13th), Bittern, Little Egrets, a Green Sandpiper, Stonechat, Shelduck, Chiffchaff, Cetti’s Warbler, Peregrine, Marsh Tit and Water Rail. Coton Lakes had a Red-crested Pochard, Cetti’s Warbler and Chiffchaffs. MIDDLETON: Little Egrets peaked at a site record 56 (28th). There was a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (20th), Goldeneyes, Scaup, Woodcock and 29 Snipe. MORTON BAGOT: There were Meadow Pipits, Linnets, Redpolls, a Jack Snipe, Stonechat, Green Sandpiper and Peregrine. SALFORD PRIORS: Highlights were a Pintail, Green Sandpiper, Water Rail, Raven and Marsh Tit. TAME VALLEY: Kingsbury WP had a Red-crested Pochard, 18 Little Egrets, a Yellow-legged Gull and Willow Tit. OTHER SITES: Six Bearded Tits were at Napton. A Red-crested Pochard, Pintail, Shelduck and Water Rail were at Lea Marston. Ham’s Hall had a Siberian Chiffchaff at the end of the month, five Waxwings, Green and Commonsix Clare Chiffchaffs.Topping Sandpipers, (clare.topping@gmail.com)a Raven, Peregrine and HIGHLIGHTS:Brook. WEST Waxwings MIDLANDSA were Dipperat Edgbaston.was on the Bourn BARTLEYGull at the month’s RESERVOIR:end. CaspianThere was and an Iceland Yellow-leggedScoter remained Gulls until roosted. mid-month,The Commonwith a few Goldeneyes and a Pintail. LUTLEY: overwinteringA Merlin, Stonechats Peregrine were and noted. two MARSHJack Snipe, LANE: Redshank Waders and included Dunlin. Woodcock,There was an Egyptian Goosanders Goose,and record Mandarin, reserve Goldeneye,counts of Wigeon and Teal. SANDWELLSwan, Mediterranean VALLEY: Gull, There12 Jackwas a Snipe, Whooper60 Snipe, 100 Goosanders and two Pintails on Forge Mill Lake and marsh. Marsh and Willow Tits were logged. OTHER SITES: A Whooper Swan was in Perry Park where there were also Ring-necked Parakeets. Yellow-legged Gulls were at Fens Pools, Stubbers Green and Edgbaston Reservoir. A Mediterranean Gull was at Stubbers Green. Thirteen Little Egrets and a Mandarin were at Trittiford. Pete Hackett (0121 358 2454) WORCESTERSHIRE AVON VALLEY: A Great White Egret was at Bredon’s Hardwick and Nafford. A Waxwing was at Evesham. A Bittern was at Gwen Finch Wetland. CENTRAL: Two Greater Scaup and four Goldeneye were at Grimley. A Merlin flew over Hawford. Two Yellow-legged Gulls and seven Goldeneyes were at Westwood Pool. The Black Redstart remained on Worcester Cathedral. Golden Plovers were at Bredicot (194), Stoulton (30) and Worcester (106). LOWER SEVERN VALLEY: A Goldeneye, Pintail and 45 Golden Plovers were at Clifton. An Eastern Black Redstart (6th), two Dusky Warblers, a Siberian Chiffchaff, Great White Egret, Merlin, Goldeneye and Pintail were at Ripple. A Cattle Egret was at Queenhill (15th-17th). NORTH: Two White-fronted Geese and two Caspian Gulls at Bittell Reservoirs. A Yellow-legged Gull was at Brake Mill Pool. Twenty Crossbills were at Eymore Wood. Two Crossbills, a Merlin and 24 Golden Plovers were at Hewell Grange. Waxwings were at Far Forest (two) and Kidderminster. UPTON WARREN: Highlights included a Hen Harrier and Black-tailed Godwit. Brian Stretch (www.worcesterbirding.co.uk)
N. IRELAND
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Great White Egrets were seen in the Lower Lough Erne, Co Fermanagh (2nd) and another bird was reported from Dundrum, Co.down (11th). A Marsh Harrier was reported from RSPB Portmore Lough reserve throughout. Two Velvet Scoters were seen throughout on Belfast Lough and another two seen of Glynn, Co Antrim. Two were at Newcastle (11th). The long-staying Ring-billed Gull was at Carrick (31st). A few Iceland Gulls were around – one was on the Inver river, Larne (10th), another in Enniskillen (27th), one was at Whitehouse Lagoon (28th), and one was in Bangor (30th). A Kumlien’s Gull was at Whitehouse Lagoon (30th). A few Little Gulls were seen – three were at Dundrum (11th), two at Bishopscourt, Co.down (29th) and another at Ballycastle (29th). A Yellow-legged Gull was at Whitehouse Lagoon (17th). Three Mediterranean Gulls were seen at Strangford Lough (4th) and another was recorded at Portrush (8th). A Smew was seen at RSPB Portmore Lough (18th) and was seen regularly until the end of the month. A Green-winged Teal was at the Ecos centre, Ballymena (13th-31st at least). Seven Goosanders were on Lough Island, Reavy, Co.down (5th), one was at Six Mile Water, Co.antrim, and two were at Belleek, Co Fermanagh (24th). Waxwing flocks increased throughout the month, the biggest being 40 seen in Glengormley, Co.antrim (28th). A Great Spotted Woodpecker was in Antrim (19th). Four Snow Buntings were at Slieve Gullion, Co Armagh (17th), and another eight were reported from the Keady Mountains near Limavady (8th). A Chiffchaff was seen at Oxford Island, Co.armagh (10th), and a Siberian Chiffchaff was heard calling at Oxford Island the same day. Ian Graham - some of the birds below have yet to be assessed by the Records committee. You can report sightings via nibirds@live.co.uk or twitter @nibirds
WALES
Highlights In association with The UK’S first Masked Wagtail at Camroese, Pembrokeshire, nearly remained until the end of the month, but was last seen on Boxing Day, and subsequent searches failed to relocate it. A female Blackthroated Thrush at St Asaph, Clwyd was last seen on 31st.
ANGLESEY HOLYHEAD AREA: A Yellow-browed Warbler, three Mediterranean Gulls and 40 Kittiwakes were seen at Soldiers Point (31st). The Inland Sea held a Black-necked Grebe, Slavonian Grebe, 19 Scaup, a Great Northern Diver and two Mediterranean Gulls. Trearddur Bay had four Long-tailed Ducks and six Purple Sandpipers. Beddmanarch Bay had two Great Northern Divers, a Slavonian Grebe, Black Guillemot, Goosander and Mediterranean Gull. A Black Redstart was recorded at South Stack (3rd). OTHER SITES: Four Cattle Egrets and six Little Egrets were near Pont Marquis on (25th), with five Cattle Egrets there (31st). Malltraeth Marsh held two Marsh Harriers, two Hen Harriers, three Bitterns, 11 Whooper Swans and 11 Black-tailed Godwits. There were 45 Pink-footed Geese off Point Lynas (10th). A Hawfinch was in Cemaes. Two Whooper Swans were at Cemlyn. A Long-tailed Duck was on Llyn Llywenan. Ken Croft BRECONSHIRE HIGHLIGHTS: A Great Grey Shrike was in Coed Taf Fawr in the Brecon Beacons (11th). Nine Waxwings were in Llanwrthwl and two in Brecon Town (31st). Mandarins included 14 on the Wye near Erwood Bridge (6th), and 50 at Dolymynach Reservoir (26th). BRECON TOWN: Sixty Pied Wagtails, three Grey Wagtails and 40 Meadow Pipits frequented the Sewage Works (2nd). Two gardens attracted Blackcaps. A Kestrel was at Cradoc, and a Merlin and two Peregrines over the town (9th). LLANGORSE LAKE: Snipe peaked at 55 and Starlings at 30,000. Three Great White Egrets and three Little Egrets were regular. Wildfowl included 181 Tufted Ducks, 44 Goldeneyes, 173 Wigeon, 30 Gadwall, 424 Coots and 392 Canada Geese. There were 40 Siskins, 100 Redwings, 80 Yellowhammers and 40 House Sparrows. OTHER SITES: Talybont Reservoir held 36 Goosanders, 31 Little Grebes and a Water Rail. There were 50 Wigeon at Pipton, and 220 Mallards, a Yellow-legged Gull and two Little Egrets at Ffordd Fawr. Four Little Egrets were recorded at Llyswen (26th) and one flew over Llanwrtyd Wells (21st). There were 150 Golden Plovers seen on Llandefalle Hill (2nd). Bwlch held 500 Woodpigeons, 400 Jackdaws, 25 Ravens, 125 Chaffinches and 20 Yellowhammers.
Two Blackcaps came to a Llangynidr garden (7th). Woodcocks included four at Tirabad and Coelbren, two at Llangasty, and singles at Plasygors and Glasbury. A Merlin hunted at Heol Senni (20th). A Green Sandpiper and 53 Snipe were at Mynydd Illtyd (21st). There were 100 Fieldfares at Cwm Llia (27th). Andrew King, Keith Noble and www. brecknockbirds.co.uk CEREDIGION HIGHLIGHTS: Ynyslas held an American Wigeon (1st), three Grey Phalaropes (10th) and a Yellow-legged Gull. Two Velvet Scoters flew past Aberystwyth (5th). A Great Northern Diver was at the Dyfi estuary and a Bittern at Cors Fochno (16th). A Slavonian Grebe (11th-17th) and Black-throated Diver (20th) were at the Teifi Estuary. Fourteen Greenland White-fronted Geese were at the Dyfi estuary/ Ynys-hir. COASTAL SITES: A Black Redstart was at Llanrhystud. There were 55 Gannets at Ynyslas (3rd), 20 Red-throated Divers at Llanon (17th) and a late Gannet at Aberystwyth (26th) where eight Purple Sandpipers and a Black Redstart were noted. A Brent Goose was at New Quay (28th). DYFI ESTUARY: There were 3,079 Wigeon, 326 Pintails, 1,000 Lapwings, 47 Grey Plovers and a Spotted Redshank (16th). A Water Pipit and Jack Snipe were at the Clettwr (3rd). Two Water Pipits (17th) and a Brent Goose (18th) were at Ynys-hir. A Marsh Harrier, Great White Egret, two Green Sandpipers and a Greenshank were present all month. Borth Bog/ Cors Fochno held a Jack Snipe (1st) and three Hen Harriers. OTHER SITES: Llyn Eiddwen held 35 Goosanders and a Hen Harrier (11th). Cors Caron hosted a Green Sandpiper (17th), seven Whooper Swans and a Water Pipit. A Merlin was at Bow Street (26th). John A Davis (johndavis@ midwalesbirdwatching.co.uk) CLWYD HIGHLIGHTS: A Black-throated Thrush remained at St. Asaph. Fenn’s Moss had a Hen Harrier, Rough-legged Buzzard and Great Grey Shrike (4th-5th). Waxwings built from one in Flint (1st) to 60 at St Asaph, 70 at Wrexham Industrial Estate and 90 at Denbigh by the month’s end. Shotwick Boating Lake had a Long-tailed Duck, 13 Bewick’s Swans, 36 Whooper Swans, 65 Mute Swans and a Green Sandpiper (17th). Llyn Brenig had a Water Pipit (11th). COASTAL SITES: Oakenholt Marsh had an excellent 2,300 Pinkfeet (7th). Twite at Connah’s Quay peaked at 40, with 180 Linnets, 41 Redwings and a Spotted Redshank. Shotton logged a Cattle Egret (22nd). There was a Black Redstart at Penrhyn Bay (28th). Deeside Industrial Estate logged 150 Fieldfares (15th). INLAND SITES: Ysceifiog Lake, Denbigh had a Great White Egret (30th). Rhuddlan logged three Jack Snipe (18th). Gresford Flash had a possible Caspian Gull (4th), with a Yellow-legged Gull and Mediterranean Gull (11th). There were ten Shovelers, two Goosanders and four Tufted Ducks (30th). Erddig had a two Goosanders, three Great Spotted Woodpeckers and the usual Buzzards (20th). Goldcrest, Treecreeper and Fieldfare were with Waxwings at Wrexham Industrial Estate (30th). Fifteen Lapwings were along the Alyn at Burton (5th). Garden birds in Wrexham included Blackcap, with singing Blackbird and Chaffinch from mid-month. Norman Hallas, Rev Hugh Linn, Kevin Smith and Richard Smith EAST GLAMORGAN HIGHLIGHTS: A Cattle Egret turned up with Little Egrets at Wentloog, subsequently roosting at Hendre Lake (21st). A Richard’s Pipit was at Nash Point (1st-7th). A Glaucous Gull was at Cardiff Bay (31st). Putative Siberian Chiffchaffs occurred at Kenfig and Cardiff Bay. Yellow-browed Warblers were at Forest Farm (3rd), Brynna Woods (24th) and Bute Park (28th). Water Pipits were at Ogmore Estuary (two), Rumney Great Wharf and Llwyn-on Reservoir. A Dartford Warbler was at Dunraven. OTHER SITES: Unseasonal visitors were a Willow Warbler at Cardiff Bay, Whinchat at Sker and a Lesser Whitethroat (race not established) coming to garden feeders at Ewenny. Cardiff Bay held seven Scaup and a long-staying Long-tailed Duck, the latter also briefly visiting Cosmeston. There were 110 Pintails and 75 Shovelers at the Heliport. Thirteen Brent Geese frequented Aberthaw, the majority being pale-bellied birds. A Great Northern Diver drifted along the coast between Nash Point and Porthcawl. Over 40 Red-throated Divers were off Aberthaw. A Hen Harrier was at Llanilid. Short-eared Owls were at Kenfig (two) and Rumney Great Wharf. Waders at Ogmore Estuary included a Black-tailed Godwit, Common Sandpiper and 16 Purple Sandpipers. Black Redstarts were at Nash Point (two), Sker, Cardiff Bay and Aberthaw. Paul Roberts GOWER AND WEST GLAMORGAN NEATH/PORT TALBOT: The Great Grey Shrike remained at Mynydd Penydd/bryn. A Great Northern Diver put in a few appearances at the Afan Estuary. A Black Redstart was at Baglan Bay (3rd). A Great White Egret flew over Margam towards Kenfig (4th). Four Mandarins were on Fishpond, Margam Park. Some 300 Sanderling were on Aberavon Beach, with 221 Great Crested Grebes (20th) and two Goldeneyes (27th). A Red-throated Diver and three Guillemots were at Port Talbot Harbour, with two Purple Sandpipers, 24 Turnstones and nine Rock Pipits on Margam Breakwater. Some 1,300 Starlings roosted at Margam Wharf Reedbed. A Pintail was at the River Neath estuary, with 15 Mallards. A Chiffchaff was recorded at Baglan Energy Park. Kingfishers were at Port Talbot Docks, Baglan Pool and Canal and River Neath. Terry Tovey GWENT HIGHLIGHTS: Two Red-throated Divers were at Llandegfedd Reservoir (22nd-29th). Two Black Redstarts were at Uskmouth Power Station (22nd), with another at Newport Wetlands (29th). A possible flock of Waxwings was reported from Usk (6th). NEWPORT WETLANDS: A Hen Harrier was seen (3rd), with a Marsh Harrier noted on several dates. There were Merlins (10th and 17th), three Whooper Swans (11th) and a Chiffchaff (17th). OTHER SITES: Jack Snipe were at Waunafon Bog (3rd) and Peterstone (17th). A Hen Harrier was near Pontypool (13th). Two Common Scoters and several Goldeneyes were at recorded at Llandegfedd Reservoir for most of the month. Four Water Pipits were at Peterstone (16th). A Short-eared Owl was at Sluice Farm (15th). A Merlin was at Gobion (25th). Chris Hatch
CHESHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Long-eared Owl was at Burton Mere Wetlands, a Swallow flew over Hartford and a Green-winged Teal was at Woolston Eyes (3rd). A Common Crane was spotted at Shocklach (14th). A Caspian Gull was on Richmond Bank (19th).
INLAND SITES: A Smew was at Newchurch (1st) where it was joined by a Common Scoter and Red-crested Pochard (11th). A Scaup and Yellow-legged Gull were on Neumann’s Flash (2nd). A Black-necked Grebe was on Lapwing Hall Pool (3rd). A Glaucous Gull (3rd) and Great White Egret (24th) were at Elton Hall Flash. Forty Waxwings were in Warrington and a Bittern was at Marbury CP (29th).
HILBRE: A thousand Common Scoter were on the sea (2nd) and 12,000 Knot were roosting (4th). 682 Bar-tailed Godwits were on the north shore (6th). A Snow Bunting was on the island (8th). A thousand Cormorants were counted flying out of the estuary at dawn and 13 Purple Sandpipers roosted (14th). A total of 12,500 Dunlin was the highest count of the month (15th) and a lone male Long-tailed Duck flew past at first light (29th).
MERSEY VALLEY: A Spotted Redshank (1st) and Curlew Sandpiper (17th) were at Pickering’s Pasture. Two Great White Egrets and a Little Stint (16th) were on Frodsham Marsh. Two Water Pipits were found at Hale (17th).
WIRRAL COAST: A Bittern flew at Parkgate (2nd) and 4,000 Pink-footed Geese were in fields at Burton (7th). A Glaucous Gull flew up the River Mersey at Seacombe (12th). A total of 1,200 Bar-tailed Godwits were in the high tide roost at Hoylake and 1,550 Pintail at Heswall (13th). At least eight Marsh Harriers were on the Dee marshes (14th). Three thousand Black-tailed Godwits were at Thurstaston and 12 Waxwings in Neston (30th).
WOOLSTON EYES: The count (19th) included 1,000 Teal, 83 Mallards, 109 Tufted Ducks, 24 Gadwall and two Goldeneyes. A Visible Migration Watch (22nd) had 8,000 Starlings, 22 Buzzards, a Green Woodpecker, 137 Fieldfares, 460 Pinkfeet, 16 Siskins, a Peregrine and 70 Greenfinches .Ringing on No1 bed gave Goldcrest, Chiffchaff, Goldfinch, Fieldfare and Siberian Chiffchaff. Records included two Tawny Owls, 500 Redwings, two Peregrines, 4,000 Starlings and a Green Woodpecker. No3 bed ringing had Goldcrest, Chiffchaff, Redwing, Teal, Moorhen, Woodpigeon, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Jay. Records included 100 Linnets, a Green-winged Teal, Cetti’s Warbler, three Water Rails, six Lesser Redpolls, 11 Bullfinches, a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Woodcock, Bittern, Raven, ten Shelducks, 29 Shovelers and six Stock Doves. Richard Smith and Dave Steel
CUMBRIA
HIGHLIGHTS: The Great Grey Shrike remained around Soddy Gap early in the month. A Great White Egret was at Foulshaw Moss (2nd), with three in the Lyth Valley (9th), one at Humphrey Head (27th-28th), and one over Arnside (28th). A Red-backed Shrike (possibly a Turkestan Shrike) was in gardens at Hallbankgate (4th). Two Greenland White-fronted Geese were at South Walney (1st-22nd), with a Scaup there (18th). A Black Redstart was recorded at Whitehaven (2nd-16th). A Red-necked Grebe was at Ullswater (from 2nd). A Bittern was at Siddick Ponds (28th). A Long-tailed Duck was off Whitehaven (4th-10th), with up to three at Grune Point, one at Whinfell Tarn (14th-20th), two at Windermere (11th) and five at Walney Island (24th), along with a Great Northern Diver and two Scaup.
GREATER MANCHESTER
HIGHLIGHTS: A Long-tailed Duck was at Pennington Flash all month, as were two Long-tailed Ducks at Audenshaw Reservoirs. Iceland Gulls were at Audenshaw Reservoir (27th-28th), Gorton (28th and 31st) and Ashworth Moor Reservoir (3rd).
MERSEY VALLEY: A Little Egret was on Carrington Moss (17th), with a Brambling also there. Ten Ring-necked Parakeets were at Chorlton WP and 12 at Chorlton Ees. A Woodcock and Brambling were at Shell NR. A Pintail was at Shell Pool (11th).
ELTON RESERVOIR: A Merlin was seen (2nd and 19th), with a Scaup (11th).
PENNINGTON FLASH: There were three Scaup, a Bittern (12th-31st), Mediterranean Gull, Little Egret, with two (30th-31st), and a Yellow-legged Gull (10th-18th).
OTHER SITES: Waxwings included 100 at Bredbury, 60 in Bolton, 60 at Ordsall, 51 in Salford, 41 in Altrincham, 30 in Hulme, 23 in Wigan, 20 at Wythenshawe Hospital and 1-10 at Altrincham, Bryn, Elton, Horwich, Manchester City centre, Mottram, Newhey, Romiley, and Woodley. A Little Egret was at Horrock’s Flash (11th-18th). A Green Sandpiper was at Hope Carr (28th). A Bittern was at Doffcocker (1st). A Merlin was at Croxden Peat Works. Three Scaup were on High Rid Reservoir (2nd-8th), with others on Ashworth Moor Reservoir (4th-26th) and Audenshaw Reservoir (7th-31st). A Dipper was near Rumworth Lodge (1st), with a Mediterranean Gull (1st-5th). Two Dippers were at Worthington Lakes. A Jack Snipe, Barn Owl and 20 Ravens were on Ludworth Moor. There were 52 Mandarins at Etherow CP. Dr Paul Brewster (01606 590 491)
LANCASHIRE AND NORTH MERSEYSIDE
HIGHLIGHTS: A blue-phase Snow Goose was at Marshside (from 16th). A Great Grey Shrike was north-east of Burscough before Christmas. Great White Egrets were on the Ribble all month, with another at Pilling (27th). One or two Cattle Egrets were at Marshside and near Hightown and Lunt, with three near Birkdale (28th). A Green-winged Teal was at Martin Mere (9th and 30th).
EAST LANCASHIRE: A Bittern was at Brockholes. Iceland Gulls were at Ashworth Moor Reservoir (2nd-3rd) and Fishmoor Reservoir (19th-20th). Scaup were at Ashworth Noor and Clowbridge Reservoirs, with a Common Scoter at Alston Reservoir. A Snow Bunting was on Pendle Hill (19th). Waxwings included 20-50 at Blackburn, Burnley, Clitheroe, Nelson, Accrington and Chorley, and 100 at Barrow, Ribble Valley (28th).
FYLDE REGION: There were 560 Whooper Swans and ten Bewick’s Swans in the Thurnham-cockersands area, and 40 Whoopers near Lodge Lane, Warton. Pinkfeet were present in lower numbers than usual. A Greenland Whitefront was seen twice. There were 115 Red-throated Divers, 1,500 Common Scoters, a Velvet Scoter and two Scaup off Blackpool, and 1,000 Pintails off Lytham. Fairhaven Lake had 81 Tufted Ducks and 14 Pochards. The Ribble marshes had a Hen Harrier, two Marsh Harriers, Peregrine and Merlin. A Short-eared Owl was at Wesham Marsh (14th), with three there (28th). Two Ruff were at Ream Hill Flood, Mythop mid-month. Five Bearded Tits were still at Fleetwood Marsh NP early in the month. A Marsh Tit was near British Aerospace, Warton (3rd-4th), plus two Bullfinches, rare outside Preston. Two Snow Buntings were at St Anne’s, with singles at Cockersands (19th) and Fleetwood (27th). Fifty Waxwings were at Preston (13th), then very few until 40 towards the month’s end. Twenty were in Blackpool (19th). A Black Redstart was at Knott End (from 28th).
MARTON MERE: Two Long-eared Owls roosted. A Ring-necked Parakeet was seen (7th8th). Two Bitterns were seen (11th). Water Rails and Cetti’s Warblers were noted. Around 300 Teal and over 100 Wigeon were among seven species of duck present.
SW LANCASHIRE AND NORTH MERSEYSIDE: Around 450 Whooper Swans and seven Bewick’s Swans were near Sollom (21st). Two of the latter were at Marshside mid-month. There were 170 Twite near Southport Marine Lake. A Bittern was at Mere Sands Wood mid-month. A Glaucous Gull was at Crosby (15th). Four Short-eared Owls were at Lunt and two at Garston CP. Nine Waxwings were at Ormskirk (20th-22nd), and 12 at Aigburth (27th). Maurice Jones
NORTH LANCASHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Long-tailed Duck remained throughout at Pine Lake. Two Great White Egrets roosted at Leighton Moss throughout, with possibly a different bird in the Lune Valley (16th and 22nd).
HEYSHAM OBSERVATORY: The Czech-ringed Mediterranean Gull returned, as it has done since 2003. Another followed the Isle of Man Ferry (26th). Up to six Jack Snipe were at Ocean Edge at the beginning of the month. A Chiffchaff was at Middleton (15th and 28th), where the Cetti’s Warbler re-appeared (27th). A Pochard was on the Middleton model boat pond (from 20th), and 12 Gadwall were noted. There were ten Kittiwake records on three days, a Little Gull (24th) and two Razorbills (24th).
LEIGHTON MOSS: Four Bitterns were recorded. Up to 200 Siskins were seen. There were three Marsh Harriers, with one commuting to Silverdale Moss. Four Bearded Tits were at Silverdale Moss and one at Barrow Scout.
LUNE VALLEY: The Aughton area held an American x Eurasian Wigeon hybrid (24th), a Scaup (12th), Greenshank (8th and 20th), 977 Wigeon and 62 Redshanks. Sixteen Whooper Swans were at Gressingham/melling. There were 106 Snipe and four Jack Snipe.
WAXWINGS: Peaks around Lancaster south of the Lune comprised 11 (1st), 40 (15th-16th), 58 (21st-22nd) and 47 (30th), with many gaps between sightings. North/west of the Lune, there were 17 on White Lund (22nd) and five at Heysham (30th). Elsewhere there were 25 at Wray (20th), singles at Tatham and Hornby, and two over Gaitbarrows (20th). Pete Marsh and Kevin Kelly
CLEVELAND
HIGHLIGHTS: The Eastern Black Redstart remained at Skinningrove all month.
NORTH TEES MARSHES: A single Long-eared Owl was at Saltholme RSPB during the month. White-fronted Geese were present there (9th & 19th). Nearby 19 were at Cowpen Marsh (20th) and a further five back at Saltholme RSPB (23rd). A Bittern was there (29th) and five Scaup were present (31st). A Green Sandpiper was here mid-month. The Spotted Redshank remained at Salterns all month. Two Whooper Swans called in briefly (12th).
HARTLEPOOL: A Great Northern Diver was in the harbour (2nd-3rd). A Shore Lark was at Old Cemetery (3rd-31st at least). Two Glaucous Gulls were present (20th) with another at Parton Rocks (30th).
OTHER SITES: Large numbers of Waxwings were present at various localities from mid-month with the highest count being 350 at Thornaby (21st). Up to 11 Velvet Scoters were off Redcar. Three tundra Bean Geese were at Kilton (from 21st). Twite numbers reached 150 at Seaton Snook. Up to 15 Snow Buntings were also seen here. A Glaucous Gull was at Skinningrove (30th). A Black-throated Diver was at South Gare (3rd). Chris Sharp 01429 865163
NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE
ALKBOROUGH FLATS: Sightings included a total of 32 White-fronted Geese (18th), three (23rd), 940 Wigeon (7th), 1,112 Teal and 142 Mallards (14th), Pintail (7th & 24th), 30 Shoveler (7th), six Little Egrets, eight Marsh Harriers, Hen Harrier (7th), Merlin, up to two Peregrines, 6,100 Lapwings (14th), only one Ruff (to 7th), one or two Jack Snipe, 110 Snipe (14th), up to nine Spotted Redshanks, three
Kingfishers, two Rock Pipits (14th), up to five Water Pipits, six Stonechats, 880 Fieldfares and 500 Redwings (7th), at least five male Cetti’s Warblers and 50-plus Bearded Tits with 250 Reed Buntings (15th).
BARTON: Records included a flock of 10 White-fronted Geese arrived (18th) and another 33 flew west the same day; 107 Gadwall were counted (17th), 30 Shoveler (2nd), the drake Scaup stayed all month with additional first calendar year drakes (6th & 31st) and a redhead Smew showed (from 27th). A flock of 120 Goldeneye was on the Humber (19th). A male Marsh Harrier showed (13th-29th), 740 Dunlin (27th), 70 Blackbirds (31st), Mealy Redpoll (31st), 1,500 Fieldfares and 1,500 Redwings (9th), and there were 20 singing male Cetti’s Warblers.
DONNA NOOK – Pyes Hall: Best of a quiet month were 210 Pink-footed Geese (7th), a White-fronted Goose (18th) and seven (21st), a peak of 950 dark-bellied Brent Geese, 26 Whooper Swans (12th), 340 Teal (16th), 180 Common Scoters (18th), three Long-tailed Ducks (21st), Great Northern Diver (17th), two Hen Harriers (16th) and a male (25th-26th), 1,700 Lapwings (16th), 1,200 Golden Plovers (21st), 230 Grey Plovers (26th), 76 Turnstones (25th), 250 Sanderlings (26th), 1,250 Dunlin, Short-eared Owls (17th & 18th), Water Pipit (17th & 21st), a maximum of 30 Rock Pipits (26th), Brambling (17th), 170 Twite (15th) and Lapland Bunting (7th) with two (18th).
OTHER SITES: In Goxhill Marsh a flock of 4,500 Pink-footed Geese held up to 30 White-fronted Geese, seven tundra Bean Geese and two Bar-headed Geese; a Firecrest was also in the area (26th-27th). Six Whooper Swans were at New Holland. Up to 10 tundra Beans and 30 White-fronted Geese were in the Winteringham – South Ferriby area. At least 25,000 Golden Plovers were at Read’s Island (11th-18th) and 41 Avocets were wintering. Graham Catley with records from Steve Lorand and other observers
SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: Two Velvet Scoters and a Shag were at the Witham Mouth at the end of the month. A count of 6,290 Wigeon at Frampton was a reserve record. A Starling murmuration there nudged 6,000.
FRAMPTON MARSH: Whooper Swans peaked at 42. A Scaup lingered, but wasn’t seen towards the end of the month. Pale-bellied Brent Geese were seen occasionally among the 5,000 dark-bellied birds. Maxima were 2,000 Pinkfeet, 2,400 Lapwings and 6,000 Golden Plovers. Two Hen Harriers, a Merlin, Peregrine and Barn Owl hunted regularly, with occasional sightings of a Short-eared Owl. Three Spotted Redshanks remained. There were 2,000 Fieldfares, a Cetti’s Warbler and four Stonechats. Bearded Tit sightings were less frequent.
FREISTON SHORE: There were 100 Pintails, 1,000 Wigeon and 1,500 Lapwings (11th), with 54 Goldeneyes and an Avocet (21st). Toby Collett NORTHUMBERLAND HIGHLIGHTS: A Black Scoter seen at Goswick was perhaps a returning individual (29th-31st).
NORTH NORTHUMBERLAND: A Little Stint was at Fenham Flats (11th-17th). A Spotted Redshank was in Budle Bay (2nd-18th). Two Tundra Bean Geese were at High Newton (20th). Longhoughton Steel hosted a Glaucous Gull (23rd).
SOUTH NORTHUMBERLAND: A Smew was at Bolam Lake (1st-12th). Black Redstarts were at Newcastle (1st-8th), Cullercoats (7th-18th) and North Blyth (8th). A Siberian Chiffchaff was at Hauxley (8th), with two in North Shields (18th). A Great Grey Shrike was at Prestwick Carr (12th-31st). A Glaucous Gull was off Whitley Bay (11th). A Water Pipit was again at St. Mary’s Island, along with a Red-necked Grebe (18th). Long-tailed Ducks were at Bothal Pond (11th-17th) and Grindon Lough (18th-19th). An influx of tundra Bean Geese brought one to Cresswell Pond (17th-19th), three to Big Waters (20th-22nd), five to Druridge Pools (23rd), one to Bothal Pond (22nd), three to Longhirst Flash, five to Backworth (26th) and two to Woodhorn (29th). Seven Shore Larks remained at East Chevington. A Bewick’s Swan was at Whittle Dene Reservoir (8th-31st). Jonathan Farooqi (jonathanfarooqi@gmail. com)
EAST YORKSHIRE
HIGHLIGHTS: A Pallid Harrier was in the Welwick area all month.
FLAMBOROUGH: There was a Black-throated Diver (2nd), Red-necked Grebe, Great Northern Diver and six Long-tailed Ducks (3rd) and a Pomarine Skua (4th). Three Great Northern Divers, four Long-tailed Ducks, three Velvet Scoters and a Black Redstart were present (10th). A Glaucous Gull was seen (11th), with a Snow Bunting (15th), Bean Goose (19th), Yellow-browed Warbler (22nd), Scaup (27th) and Little Egret (28th).
HORNSEA MERE: There was a Smew and Long-tailed Duck (5th), a Scaup (17th) and two Water Rails (24th). Three Snow Buntings flew over (4th).
SPURN: The adult ‘Black Brant’ remained throughout in the company of up to 700 Brent Geese. White-fronted Geese were recorded regularly with a maximum of 28 (22nd), when three tundra Bean Geese also passed through. Sea passage was generally steady, the highlights being Long-tailed Duck, two Velvet Scoters, Black-throated Diver and Purple Sandpiper (1st), Red-necked Grebe (5th), Long-tailed Duck (20th) two Velvet Scoters (22nd) and occasional sightings of Sooty Shearwater and Bonxie. Despite good numbers of common waders using the Humber, the more noteworthy species were seen at Beacon Ponds including Purple Sandpiper, Jack Snipe, Greenshank and up to 16 Black-tailed Godwits. Up to five Short-eared Owls were in the Long Bank area where both Marsh and Hen Harrier were also recorded. The bushes were predictably quiet apart from the occasional Chiffchaff, though 10 Goldrests at The Point (19th) were noteworthy. There were 14 Twite (9th), seven Snow Buntings (15th) A small number of Waxwings were also seen, mostly fly-overs. There was a Glaucous Gull (28th).
OTHER SITES: A Black-necked Grebe and Long-tailed Duck were at Tophill Low (4th). A Little Egret was at Buckton (7th). A Great White Egret was at Brigham (21st). Barmston held two Hooded Crows (16th) and 28 Snow Buntings (21st). A Lapland Bunting was at Holmpton (18th). A Black-necked Grebe was in Bridlington Harbour (31st).waxwings included six at Sunk Island (3rd), four near Driffield (18th), 70 in Hessle and one in Hull (26th), seven in Hull (29th), six in Pocklington (29th), and three at North Cliffe Wood, 18 at Hedon,
three near Beverley and one in North Ferriby (30th). Ian Marshall (01482 627 446) and John Hewitt (07952 292 060)
NORTH YORKSHIRE
SCARBOROUGH: The district’s first wintering Yellow-browed Warbler was at Seamer Road Mere (8th). A Little Auk was in Cayton Bay (7th), with a Velvet Scoter there (from16th). Highlights at Long Nab included a Red-necked Grebe and two Sooty Shearwaters (3rd), plus 11 Shore Larks (to 5th). Two Great Grey Shrikes were wintering in Langdale Forest. There were 18 White-fronted and seven tundra Bean Geese at Staintondale (21st) plus a tundra Bean Goose at Scalby Lodge (30th). Several Long-tailed Ducks included one inland at Burton Riggs (5th). A Black-throated Diver was at Wykeham Lakes (11th-18th). A Great Northern Diver was at the harbour, where two Black-necked Grebes were seen regularly. A Red-throated Diver at Peasholm Park was sadly found dead (24th). Waxwings included 33 at Seamer Road (29th). A Glaucous Gull was off the harbour (31st). Nick Addey (www.scarboroughbirding.co.uk)
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
OLD MOOR AREA: Unseasonable Marsh Harriers were seen (6th, 24th, 26th & 27th). Bitterns were thin on the ground with one on Bolton Ings (8th) and one on Old Moor (27th). A Great White Egret flew over (9th) and wildfowl numbers remained healthy all month with 1,229 Teal (18th) being the highlight. Present all month were Stonechats, with a maximum of three, Bearded Tits (max. four) and a lone Cetti’s Warbler. Roost maximums were nine Little Egrets, 46 Goosanders and 57 Cormorants.
OTHER SITES: Dippers were present on the river Dove at Worsborough Reservoir all month with a maximum of three (10th). At Adwick Washlands a White-fronted Goose was present from 10th until month’s end, 10 Jack Snipe were counted (8th) and a Marsh Harrier passed through (23rd). The Bittern was seen at Carlton Marsh (18th & 25th) and the Brambling flock at Ingbirchworth peaked at 180-plus (9th). On the 4th a Red-breasted Merganser was at Rother Valley Country Park and two Siberian Chiffchaffs were trapped and ringed at Blackburn Meadows. A juvenile Gannet was at Sprotborough Flash (23rd) and two Ravens flew over Stainborough (27th). Waxwings appeared late month with one over Worsborough (21st), 30 at Thorne (22nd) and then numbers in Sheffield rose from 13 on Manchester Road (24th) to a maximum count of 150-plus over Heeley City Farm (31st). Sightings at Potteric Carr included four White Fronted Geese (7th), two Siberian Chiffchaffs (from 18th) and a Great White Egret (3rd). The Starling roost held c.8,000 birds at the end of the month and present all month were Marsh Tit, Bearded Tit (max. three), Bittern (max. four), Marsh Harrier (max. three) and Cetti’s Warbler (max. nine). Nigel Smith – nigelsmith994@gmail.com or 07846684912; Barnsley bird news on twitter @ Barnsleybsg
WEST YORKSHIRE
BRADFORD: Waxwings included 60 at Keighley Golf Course, with smaller groups around Keighley itself. Little Egrets were at Silsden (5th), Caldene Fields (6th) and Leeshaw Reservoir (18th). Migrating skeins of Pink-footed Geese included groups of around 100 birds over Queensbury (12th and 14th) and Keighley (29th). The usual Water Rail was at the Keighley Reserve (8th). Two Ring-necked Parakeets were in a Bingley Garden (11th). A Lapland Bunting was at Soil Hill (14th). A Dunlin was at Redcar Tarn (14th). A Woodcock was at Barden Scale (17th). Two Crossbills were at Timble. Nine Red Kites flew over Denton Moor (25th). Two Tree Sparrows were at Dubrodden Farm (28th).
LOWER AIRE VALLEY: A Black-necked Grebe, eight Barnacle Geese, up to four Water Pipits and up to four Short-eared Owls remained throughout the month. Six Whooper Swans dropped in on the Main Lake (16th). A party of nine tundra Bean Geese (19th) was only identified when photos appeared after the birds had flown. A Scaup flew onto the Main Lake from the river (4th). A Long-tailed Duck was at Skelton Lake (9th-31st). The long-staying Great White Egret was seen on several days but also moved down to Fairburn Ings at times. Single Jack Snipes were on the reedbeds (14th) and at Skelton Marsh (29th). An adult Yellow-legged Gull was at Skelton Lake (29th). Chris King, Paul Morris
ARGYLL
TIREE: A Green-winged Teal was at Loch Bhasapol (2nd). A Siberian Chiffchaff was at Balephuil (2nd-9th). The Iceland Gull remained in West Tiree. Glaucous Gulls were at Hough Bay (2nd), Balephetrish Bay (8th) and Loch Bhasapol (19th). Island scarcities included a Carrion Crow at Kilkenneth (14th), and our latest ever Goldcrest at The Glebe (19th). An all-island count (13th-14th) found a total of 4,510 Barnacle Geese, 687 Greenland Whitefronts, 2,026 Greylags, a Pink-footed Goose, 135 Whooper Swans and 2,860 Lapwings. There were four Long-tailed Ducks at Hough Bay (2nd), a long-staying Scaup at Loch a’ Phuill, three Water Rails at Balephuil, a Coot at Loch Bhasapol (from 5th), four Little Grebes at Loch Riaghain (19th), Woodcocks at Balephuil (2nd and 13th), a Pied Wagtail at Hough Bay (2nd), seven Fieldfares and 400 Redwings (14th) and 19 scattered Goldfinches. A Kestrel, two Sparrowhawks, four Merlins, five Hen Harriers and four Peregrines hunted. John Bowler (john.bowler@rspb.org.uk)
BORDERS
HIGHLIGHTS: Whitsomehill had Whooper Swans (16th), plus a Grey Plover (12th). Paxton House had Whooper Swans, six Little Grebes and two Kingfishers (14th), with 15 Goosanders and a Little Egret (27th). Bemersyde Moss (15th) had its last 50 Pinkfeet. Hule Moss (20th) had 50 Mallards, 95 Tufted Ducks, six Goldeneyes, five Wigeon and 750 Teal. Yetholm Loch (27th) had 37 Mute Swans, 31 Coots, seven Tufted Ducks and 15 Goldeneyes. Two Barn Owls were at Sprouston. James D Lough
CENTRAL REGION
HIGHLIGHTS: Iceland Gulls were on the River Forth at Cambus (4th) and on the River Forth in Stirling (18th). A Great Grey Shrike was on the Braes of Doune (from 17th). A Slavonian Grebe was on the Forth (17th). Waxwings included 196 in Dunblane and 12 in Major’s Loan, Falkirk (3rd), 214 in Dunblane and 15 in Alloa (4th), 305 in Dunblane (5th), 100 in Falkirk (10th), 45 in Grangemouth (16th), 14 at Wood of Doune (18th), seven at Craigforth (23rd), 16 at Camelon (27th) and 106 in Dunblane (30th).
CLACKMANNANSHIRE: There were 781 Wigeon and 1,050 Teal on the River Forth at Longcarse (17th). Three Black-tailed Godwits were on the Haugh of Blackgrange (22nd). There were 44 Goldeneyes on the River Devon (27th).
FALKIRK DISTRICT: A Shoveler was on St Helen’s Loch, Bonnybridge (10th).
KINNEIL: There were two Scaup, a Shoveler, nine Pintails and two Greenshanks (17th), and a Little Egret, five Scaup and four Greenshanks (28th).
POW BURN-POWFOULIS: There were two Little Egrets, a Grey Plover, three Jack Snipe, two Greenshanks a Kingfisher and 40 Tree Sparrows (4th).
STIRLING DISTRICT: Three Bramblings were at Hill of Row (3rd), when eight Woodcocks and a Jack Snipe were at Torrie. There were 40 Snow Buntings on Stob Binnein (4th). Seven Scaup were on the Lake of Menteith (8th), when a Long-tailed Duck was seen at the head of Loch Tay. A Long-tailed Duck was on the Blairdrummond Ponds (from 10th). A Hen Harrier was on Sheriff Muir during the first week when 11 Nuthatches visited a feeder in Aberfoyle. Sixty Bramblings were near Loch Watston (11th). A Jack Snipe was on Netherton Marsh (18th), when a Red-breasted Merganser and Water Rail were on the River Forth at Kildean.
UPPER FORTH ESTUARY: A co-ordinated count on the 11th produced six Great Crested Grebes, nine Whooper Swans, a Little Egret, 1,720 Pinkfeet, 342 Shelducks, 393 Wigeon, 882 Teal, 32 Pintails, three Shovelers, 33 Red-breasted Mergansers, 202 Oystercatchers, 22 Golden Plovers, 673 Lapwings, 383 Knot, 5,217 Dunlin, 323 Black-tailed Godwits, 604 Curlews, 1,771 Redshanks, three Greenshanks, four Turnstones, three Kestrels and a Merlin. Neil Bielby
DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY
HIGHLIGHTS: A Green-winged Teal, American Wigeon, and Scaup were at Caerlaverock all month. A Lesser Scaup was at Carlingwark Loch (18th), Caerlaverock (26th) and Vendace Bay along with a Mediterranean Gull (30th). Common Scoters were at Carrick Bay. Four Greenshanks were at Knockbrex (30th). A Ring-necked Duck was at Carlingwark Loch and Milton Loch. Waxwings were in Dumfries, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbright and Milton. A Slavonian Grebe was on Loch Ryan (28th). A Long-tailed Duck was at Lochmaben. Sixty Goosanders and a Red-breasted Merganser were on Castle Loch. Greenland Whitefronts, a Peregrine, 180 Wigeon, 120 Pintails and 150 Teal were at Threave Estate. The Inner Solway held 3,000 Dunlin, 3,000 Linnets, Twite, Sanderling (14th), and a Purple Sandpiper (19th). A Smew and Goldeneye were on Milton Loch. Fifteen Little Egrets were on the south coast. Whooper Swans and geese were widespread.
WWT CAERLAVEROCK: Barnacle Geese, Pinkfeet, Wigeon, Teal, Golden Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Peregrine and Merlin were noted.
OTHER SITES: Thirteen Goosanders, Goldeneye and Heron were at Threave Estate/ Carlingwark Loch. There were 79 Whooper Swans by the B795. Twelve Tree Sparrows were at Mainsriddle. A Hen Harrier, Barnacle Geese, Rock Pipit, Kingfisher, Red-throated Diver, Great Crested Grebe and four Stonechats were between Mersehead and Southerness. Pinkfeet, Bullfinch, Nuthatch, Merlin, Peregrine and Hen Harrier were between Powillimount and Wigtown Bay. There were 100 Lapwings and Starling
murmurations along the south coast. There were 34 Shelducks, 23 Curlews, Oystercatcher, Wigeon, Raven, Red Kite and Buzzard at Kirkcudbright Bay. Turnstone, Redshank, Curlew, Oystercatcher and 200 Dunlin were at Knockbrex. Pam Woods (Dumfriesandgallowaybirding@yahoogroups.com)
FIFE
HIGHLIGHTS: Shore Larks were at Tentsmuir (from 18th). A Northern-race Long-tailed Tit was at Townhill CP (28th).
CENTRAL FIFE: Whooper Swans were at Lochore Meadows. Eurasian White-fronted Geese were at Rossie Bog (31st). Long-tailed Ducks were off Pathhead (3rd), at Lochore Meadows and Seafield. A Smew and Marsh Harrier were recorded at Lochore Meadows (3rd). A Red-necked Grebe was at Pathhead (3rd), with a Mediterranean Gull seen there (3rd). Seafield logged a Ruff, Greenshanks and 18 Purple Sandpipers. Three Green Sandpipers were at Angle Park (10th). A Short-eared Owl was on East Lomond and a Siberian Chiffchaff at Dysart (16th). Waxwings graced Kirkcaldy (100 on 19th) and Glenrothes.
EAST FIFE: Largo Bay held Great Northern Divers, Red-throated Divers, Slavonian Grebes, 500 Common Scoters and a Surf Scoter. Long-tailed Ducks, a Red-throated Diver and Slavonian Grebe were at Kingsbarns. A Goldeneye was at Newton Sandpit. Little Grebes were at Edenside. A Little Egret remained at Tayport. Merlins were at Crail and Tentsmuir, where a Greenshank was noted. A Whimbrel remained at Ruddons Point. A Jack Snipe was at Tayport. A Mediterranean Gull was at Leven (18th). Fifty Waxwings visited Upper Largo, with others at Leven. There were 23 Twite at Tentsmuir (14th). Snow Buntings were at Crail and Tentsmuir. Fourteen Corn Buntings were at Kingsbarns (15th).
WEST FIFE: Fifty Whooper Swans were at Craigluscar (18th). Two Smew were at Loch Gelly. Another was in Dalgety Bay, with a Slavonian Grebe, Green Sandpiper and Mediterranean Gull. A Barn Owl was at Rosyth. Waxwings were at Dunfermline (75 on 6th), Rosyth, Dalgety Bay, Cairneyhill and Longannet. Nine Crossbills were at Devilla Forest (15th). David Heeley (dw.heeley@btinternet.com)
HIGHLANDS
HIGHLIGHTS: A Black Redstart was at Brora (from 30th). American Wigeon were at Tain (from 8th), Udale (3rd) and Muirtown Basin (all month). A Little Auk passed Tarbat Ness (5th). The wintering Snow Goose moved to Alness Point (1st-6th) before returning to Loch Eye (20th), with another at Loch Ashie (30th). A Red-necked Grebe was at Loch nan Ceall, Arisaig (27th). Hawfinches at Speybridge peaked at 19 (31st), with 13 at Nethybridge (to 21st). The Black Duck remained at Strontian. Impressive Waxwing flocks included 600 in Inverness (6th), 220 at Smithton (1st), 1,100 in Aviemore (4th), 250 in Nethybridge (10th-11th) and 200 in Grantown on Spey (7th).
BADENOCH & STRATHSPEY: A White-fronted Goose was at Carrbridge (30th). There were 240 Lesser Redpolls near Speybridge (15th), with a Mealy Redpoll there (18th). On Cairngorm, 24 Ptarmigans were seen. Loch Insh held a Long-tailed Duck (from 8th).
BLACK ISLE & INVERNESS-SHIRE: Geese on the Black Isle included 15 Barnacles at Redcastle, two Whitefronts at Munlochy and 27 Brents at Rosemarkie (10th). In Inverness, a Kingfisher was at Muirtown. Three Bramblings were at Ley Castle (1st). There were 89 Scaup off Castle Stuart (2nd).
EASTER ROSS: Loch Eye held 223 Whooper Swans (20th), and 17 Shovelers, 62 Scaup and a Smew (19th). Fifteen Grey Plovers were near Portmahomack (18th). Seawatching off Tarbat Ness produced 15 Red-throated Divers (6th), a Sooty Shearwater and 20 Purple Sandpipers (15th) and five Black Guillemots (31st).
NORTH WEST & SUTHERLAND: A late Arctic Skua passed Stoerhead (4th). Barn Owls were at Clashnessie (4th) and Rhicarn (9th). A White-fronted Goose was at Altnaharra (12th). Brora logged 850 Common Scoters and two Velvet Scoters (31st), a Little Gull (19th), Glaucous Gull (28th) and Mediterranean Gull (30th). Six Velvet Scoters were off Dornoch Point (14th).
SKYE & SOUTH WEST: Five Purple Sandpipers were at Neist Point (2nd). A Hen Harrier was at Balmaqueen (29th). Eight White-fronted Geese were at Kilmuir (19th). Two Iceland Gulls were at Portree (29th) and a Glaucous Gull at Gedintailor (12th). Broadford Bay held six Brent Geese (6th), 17 Common Scoters (16th), and a Mediterranean Gull (18th). A Velvet Scoter was there (10th-13th), with another off Achnacloich (1st-13th). Two Iceland Gulls were on Eigg (7th), with another at Loch Kishorn (12th). A Little Egret visited Arisaig (6th). Loch nan Ceall held three Great Crested Grebes (27th). Tom Wells
LOTHIAN
MUSSELBURGH AREA: The drake Surf Scoter and up to 12 Twite were in the area throughout the month. Two Scaup were at the Eskmouth (4th). Twelve White-fronted Geese were at nearby Whitecraig (26th-29th). A Black-tailed Godwit and drake Shoveler were seen (31st).
ABERLADY AREA: A Surf Scoter (presumably from Musselburgh) was off Gullane Point (3rd), where a Black-necked Grebe was also seen (4th & 16th). A pair of Pintail were on the burn (4th). Seven Lapland Buntings were counted on the saltmarsh (16th) and two Jack Snipe and 50 Twite were also recorded (18th).
TYNINGHAME AREA: The Shore Lark flock at JMCP peaked at 20 birds (22nd). Six White-fronted Geese were at Whitekirk (1st). A Great Northern Diver was on Seafield Pond (3rd) which also held a female Mandarin (7th-27th). A Great Grey Shrike was in the Ware Road area (3rd) when a Pintail and Merlin were also seen. Four Snow Buntings were at Belhaven Bay (8th) and 120 Twite were on the JMCP saltmarsh (9th). Scoughall held two Lapland Buntings (14th) and three Great Northern Divers (27th).
BARNS NESS AREA: Scotlands’s first Eastern Black Redstart was found at Torness (1st) and showed off-and-on until the 22nd. A Water Pipit was at Barns Ness (3rd). Up to nine Whitefronts were at White Sands Quarry (7th) with other geese including a Barnacle at the Dry Burn (3rd-4th) and a Brent at Torness/ Thorntonloch (3rd-29th). A Black-necked Grebe was at White Sands Quarry (10th-31st). Med Gulls were noted at Thorntonloch (5th) and Skateraw (12th & 18th).
OTHER SITES: A Black Redstart showed well at North Berwick harbour all month, with a Snow Bunting seen on the nearby Law (3rd) and another Black Redstart at Joppa (28th-29th). Cramond held two Brent Geese
(3rd) and eight Greenshanks (18th). A flock of 1,000-plus Bramblings was seen near Gladhouse (4th). Water Rails were noted from Inverleith Pond and Burdiehouse. A White-fronted Goose and 141 Whooper Swans were at Prora (28th). Nine Jack Snipe were counted at Little France (28th).
WAXWINGS: The invasion continued with flocks and small groups reported all across Lothian. Numbers peaked in the third week of the month with over 700 birds seen on the 21st. Notable flocks in Edinburgh included: 200 Balgreen (14th-15th); 182 Montgomery Street (18th); 300 Piershill (21st); 200-plus Orchard Brae (21st); 150 Leith (31st); and 300 Calder Road (31st). Elsewhere significant flocks included: 80 Balerno (14th-15th); 43 Livingston (17th); 80 Linlithgow (17th); 62 West Barns (17th); 270-plus Musselburgh (18th); and 45 Penicuik (27th-28th). Jim Nicholson
OUTER HEBRIDES
HIGHLIGHTS: The American Coot remained on Loch nam Feithean, Balranald throughout the month. OTHER SITES: A Green-winged Teal was occasionally seen on Loch Bee. Five Pintails were on Baleshare and three at Loch Ardvule. A Manx Shearwater and Great Skua flew south off Ardvule (8th). A Little Egret was twice seen on the North Ford. A wintering Black-tailed Godwit was seen in North Bay, South Uist (16th) and at Coot Loch (28th). A Little Gull and Iceland Gull were in North Bay (16th). Other Iceland Gulls were at Traigh Mhor, Barra, Ardveenish and Peninerine. Twenty Glaucous Gulls were recorded. Little Auks were off Ardvule on four dates, maximum four (31st). A Grey Wagtail was in Bayhead, Stornoway (11th). A Waxwing was in South Glendale (3rd), with three Blackcaps noted there. Chiffchaffs were at Carinish (10th) and Nasg (22nd). A Blue Tit was at Bornish (14th). A Brambling was at Brevig (from 22nd). A few Snow Buntings included 13 at Traigh Mhor, Barra (14th). Steve Duffield (www.western-isles-wildlife.co. uk)
PERTH AND KINROSS
HIGHLIGHTS: A Bean Goose was at Port Allen (26th). A Green-winged Teal was at Loch Leven (10th-25th), with a Little Egret there throughout. The Ring-necked Duck returned to the Culic in Pitlochry (from 7th) after spending a week at Loch Faskally. Waxwings included 206 in Kinross (11th), 300 in Perth (15th) and 100 near Blackford (16th). Two Barnacle Geese were at Carsebreck (1st) with one at Port Allen (24th). Loch Leven held seven Scaup (12th), five Long-tailed Ducks (5th), a Smew (from 11th), 50 Golden Plovers (8th), 200 Lapwings (28th) and three Greenshanks (5th). Two Scaup were at Arnot Reservoir (17th). Black Grouse were at Crachy Burn (8th), Amulree (14th) and the River Garry (27th). A Hen Harrier was at Sheriffmuir (9th), with a Red Kite at Loch Leven (2nd). There were 120 Fieldfares and 60 Redwings near Pitroddie (17th). Scott Paterson (pkrecorder@the-soc.org.uk)
SHETLAND
HIGHLIGHTS: A White-billed Diver was in Bluemull Sound (13th). A Night Heron was at Stromfirth (4th). Five White-fronted Geese were at Spiggie (8th) with 11 at Fleck/hillwell (27th). The Surf Scoter remained off Hascosay (to 5th), with two Velvet Scoters in Lerwick Harbour (4th-8th). The long-staying Killdeer remained at Sandwick. Shetland’s latest-ever Quail was still at Sandwick (1st). Around 15 Glaucous Gulls were recorded, including four at Scatness (14th), but only eight Iceland Gulls were seen. A Kumlien’s Gull was at Scatness (16th-18th). A Little Auk was storm-driven to Bixter (22nd). Waxwings were at Brae (11th) and Cullivoe (13th). A Black Redstart was at North Roe (4th). A late Common Rosefinch was at Norwick (4th). A Hornemann’s Redpoll was at Burravoe (4th). Hugh Harrop (www.shetlandwildlife.co.uk)
TAYSIDE
HIGHLIGHTS: A total of 443 Waxwings were reported from 11 sites. An American Wigeon and Green-winged Teal were at Lintrathen (4th-21st), with 89 Bramblings there (6th). Thirty Corn Buntings roosted at Boghead Farm (4th). A White-tailed Eagle was at Back Water Dam (4th). A Mediterranean Gull was at Arbroath Esplanade (4th). Monikie CP held two Green Sandpipers (12th). Crombie CP held a tristis-race Chiffchaff (18th). A Snow Bunting was at Buddon GC, Carnoustie (19th). The Bittern remained at Kinnordy. MONTROSE BASIN: Two pale-bellied Brent Geese were present (16th). The WEBS count logged three Little Grebes, 55 Cormorants, 14 Herons, 13 Mute Swans, 966 Shelducks, 3,876 Wigeon, 311 Teal, 249 Mallards, eight Shovelers, 559 Eiders, a Long-tailed Duck, 11 Goldeneyes, 14 Red-breasted Mergansers, 55 Pintails, 1,340 Oystercatchers, 86 Lapwings, 1,043 Knot, eight Purple Sandpipers, 510 Dunlin, two Snipe, 85 Black-tailed Godwits, 73 Bar-tailed Godwits, 371 Curlews, 674 Redshanks, five Greenshanks, 43 Turnstones, seven Black-headed Gulls, nine Common Gulls, 101 Herring Gulls, and four Great Black-backed Gulls.
OTHER SITES: Barry Buddon held a Woodcock, Buzzard, Kestrel, 30 Goldfinches, Mistle Thrush, Goldcrest and Magpie (3rd). The Nature Park at Invergowrie held a Sparrowhawk, Bar-tailed Godwits and Teal (10th). Mains of Usan held three Grey Partridges, 300 Starlings and a Sparrowhawk. Forfar Loch held a Long-tailed Duck (11th), Peregrine, two Shovelers and nine Goldeneyes. Carnoustie Bay (12th) had a Long-tailed Duck, Guillemot and Eider. Monikie CP held eight Little Grebes, six Gadwall, 20 Wigeon and a Kingfisher (14th). Lunan Bay (17th) held 12 Sanderling, ten Ringed Plovers, 150 Common Scoters, six Red-throated Divers and 90 Long-tailed Ducks. Thirty Tree Sparrows came to garden feeders in Arbroath (23rd). Bob Mccurley