2007 Summary

January
The Great Skua was present at Draycote for the first week of 2007, its fate was unknown as it was now looking unwell.A white-fronted Goose arrived at Lea Marston on 10th, and was later found to be the Greenland race being reported last on 15th.From east marsh hide Brandon a Bittern showed well for a few days,and at Draycote on the 24th 3 Whooper Swans put in a brief appearance.At Whitacre Heath NR a Pink-footed Goose was seen with 2 Greylags, possibly the Marsh Lane bird from a few days before.
Two Great Northern Divers were at Draycote all month.
February
The Bittern showed on and off at Ladywalk for most of February, with now 2 Bitterns noted at Brandon.Eight Chiffchaffs overwintered at Hams Hall sewage outflow, and the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker showed well again at the car park feeding station at Whitacre Heath.The Gull roosts at Dosthill and Draycote produced Glaucous, Iceland, Med , Caspian and several Y L Gulls.
March
Their were now 3 Great Northern Divers at Draycote,an early Swallow reported over Lea Marston 4th,Avocet at Draycote 8th, Rock Pipit 10th, and 3 Little Egrets at cliff pool Kingsbury.Three summer plumaged Black-necked Grebes were found mid afternoon at Coton Lake,but not seen the next day.Wheatears arrived mid month with birds reported at Wishaw, Whitacre Heath, Draycote and Seeswood Pool, and Black-tailed Godwits at Ladywalk and Brandon.
April
A Firecrest caused much interest as it showed along the track from Middelton Hall for the first week. A Goshawk was seen over Swift Valley CP nr Rugby on 5th,and a Red Kite reported over Kenilworth 6th.Black-tailed Godwits now upto 9 on cliff pool Kingsbury 8th, an Osprey driffted east over Alvecote Pools 9th, and a Ring Ouzel at Napton 10th,a male Pied Flycatcher at Guys Cliffe Warwick 12th, and a Male Marsh Harrier at Brandon for two days 13th,14th.A female Goshawk flew over Alvecote 15th, and a drake Garganey at Brandon 16th, another Pied Flycatcher this time at Grendon 17th, and a juv Marsh Harrier over Ladywalk 18th, and an Osprey over the same day. A fine male Ring Ouzel at Baxterly 22nd,23rd, with another at Draycote from 26th, 30th.
May
Nine Bar-tailed Godwits were at Draycote 1st along with Whimbrel and Grey Plover,a Wood Sandpiper was at Coleshill GPs from 2nd till 5th. A Nightingale at Brandon from 4th to 6th giving breif veiws, at Earlswood Lakes a Honey Buzzard reported flying south east mid morning, two Spoonbills seen flying over Brandon 17th, and a Red Kite flew south east over Little Packington 22nd.
June
A first summer Little Gull graced Alvecote Pools on 1st, an out of season Black-throated Diver arrived at Draycote 28th and stayed for over three months.
July
Two Black-tailed Godwits at Draycote 7th, and a Sandwich Tern flew through 8th, a Spotted Sandpiper (complete with spots) turned up at Draycote in appauling weather on 20th, but dispite searching could not be found the following day.Black Tern and Common Scoter were found at Shustoke at the months end.
August
Alvecote had a good run this month with 3 Redstarts,3 Greenshank, 6 Little Egrets,5 Spotted Flys, 6 Lesser Whitethroats and a supporting cast of Green Sands, Black-tailed Godwits and two Sandwich Terns (1x adult,1x juv) 28th. Elsewhere a juv R C Pochard at Draycote 4th, another juv Marsh Harrier at Brandon 29th and a Manx Shearwater at Draycote on the afternoon 30th.
September
The first day produced a Spotted Crake at Ladywalk a juv, the following day saw another this time an adult, both birds showed well for most of the month. Two Garganey and two Pintail could be found on Middelton Hall lake, small numbers of Arctic Terns were at Shustoke, Draycote and Earlswood.An adult Arctic Skua was noted in the gull roost at Draycote 26th, a female Hen Harrier was at Ladywalk 28th, a Grey Phalarope was a good find at Shustoke Res late evening on 29th and showed well the following day.
October
Two juvinile Gannets flew south over Shustoke Res early afternoon 1st, another Grey Phalarope this time at Draycote was found early morning by the outflow, it re-located itself at Rainbow and showed well upto midday when it departed.Earlswoods tern for Grey Phalarope this time when one was found 3rd, it stayed for three days.A Great White Egret was found on private land on 6th, permission was gained and the bird was filmed and photographed, it was last seen 10th.A Pectoral Sandpiper paid a breif visit to Brandon 10th, another Ring Ouzel around Napton churchyard 16th, a Leach,s Petrel was found at Draycote around 2-00 on the afternoon 19th, the bird was watched late evening being arassed by Gulls its fate was unknown.The following day a Snow Bunting was seen along farnborough bank Draycote it gave excellent views for the next five days.A Slavonian Grebe was also present at Draycote from 25th, 28th.
November
A Short-eared Owl over east marsh Brandon 7th, two Grey Phalaropes were photographed at Brandon 11th, and possibly seen during the folowing day at Draycote but not confirmed.A first winter drake Lesser Scaup was found in toft bay Draycote 27th and was still present at the months end.
December
The Lesser Scaup was present all month, a juv Glaucous Gull was at Dosthill lake 1st, and one was seen at Judkins landfill site Nuneaton from 3rd, 6th. A Firecrest was noted along Laundry Lane Alvecote 11th,and by mid month three birds were noted.At Draycote a Slavonian Grebe was found in Rainbow corner, later seen by valve tower, with no further sign the following day. A first winter drake Scaup was located at Lea Marston lake and stayed untill the months end.A drake Smew turned up after a cold spell at Draycote 16th and was later joined by two more, 18th. Just one bird remained till the months end.At Church Lawford a Dark-bellied Brent Goose was found in a field next to A428, it stayed for four days.

Happy New Year, And good Birding for 2008.
Steve Seal

Dec 31st

A drake Mandarin at Earlswood Lakes this afternoon on Windmill Pool, but no sign of the Firecrest. At Draycote it looks like the first winter drake Lesser Scaup will make it into the new year as it was still present in Toft today,the drake Smew has now moved around by the picnic area. At Alvecote the Firecrest is still along Laundry Lane , access from Shuttington road bridge. (Birdguides).
Driving along the road between Maxstoke Abbey & the M6 bridge I flushed some Finches off the road & noticed a white rump on one. I turned the car around & went back for a closer look & the birds were back in the road about a dozen in all including 3 Bramblings (1Male).(M Doughty).
Two drake and a redhead Smew swimming across the border from Staffs into Warks at Fishers Mill pits this morning. Not relocated later.(G Williams).

Bird News Extra Dec 30th

Nearby Reports.
Great White Egret Cossington Meadows Leics.
Great Northern Divers x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Smew Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids
Common (Mealy) Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Smew x9 (4 x drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Holme Pierrepont Notts.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Throckmorton Tip Worcs.
Smew (2 x drakes) Pitsford Res Northants.
Regards Steve..........

Dec 30th

Nothing new reported today , still a Firecrest along Laundry Lane Alvecote around midday. Also 4 Chiffchaffs at Gilman's Pool, Escaped Hooded Merganser again on Mill Pool.(T Perrins). Both the Lesser Scaup and Smew still at Draycote.(Birdguides).
Cliff Pool Kingsbury, Gadwall 86, Shoveler 24, Teal 30, Wigeon 85, Pochard 17, Goldeneye 8males + 13 fem, and one Redshank. No sign of the drake Smew (but could be on south pool). Wje.
Two Yellow Legged Gulls (both Ads) this evening in Coton roost.(T Perrins).
Two Firecrest until dusk just north of Alvecote along Laundry Lane: 1 at top end, 1 roosted in car park. Access north from Shuttington Road Bridge. (Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Dec 29th.

Nearby Reports.
Great Northern Diver (adult) Carsington Water Derbys.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Smew x6 Pitsford Res Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv) Poolsbrook CP Derbys.
Black-necked Grebe Rutland Water Leics.
Great Northern Diver Chasewater Staffs.
Smew Chasewater Staffs.
Common(Mealy)Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Pink-footed Goose Barrow Upon Trent GPs Derbys.
Regards Steve...........

Dec 29th.

A drake Smew early afternoon on Cliff Pool South, though elusive in vegetation (T Perrins). And at Whitacre Heath NR a pair of Stonechats were present.(P Satchell). A Slavonian Grebe was reported from Draycote at Midday but no further details ? Nearby at Marsh Lane the Common (Mealy) Redpoll was seen again along the old road during the afternoon but elusive, also a few Bramblings along the hedgerow by the feeders.(Birdguides).

December 29th Draycote Water

Very strong winds and choppy waters made viewing difficult this morning and eventually found the Lesser Scaup first winter male and Smew male tucked up against the shore in gray's barn, toft bay underneath the willows. Rock Pipit flew over hensborough bank calling, Sixteen Goosander and two Kingfisher. There was a report of a Black-necked Grebe in toft but I failed to locate it.

Richard

Bird News Extra Dec 28th

Nearby Reports.
Pink-footed Goose Swarkestone Lake Derbys.
Black-necked Grebe Rutland Water Leics.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Smew x6 Pitsford Res Northants.
Smew x2 Hollowell Res Northants.
Firecrest West Hagley Worcs.
Regards Steve..........

Ladywalk December.

December 2007
27th: 11 Goosander, 1 Shelduck, 8 Pochard, 120 Wigeon, 50 Shoveler, 33 Tufted Duck, 2 Little Egret, 25 Lapwing.
26th: Little Egret.
25th: Little Egret, Stonechat, Chiffchaff, 120 Lapwing, Shelduck, 4 Snipe.
24th: Brambling, Woodcock, 2 Redpoll, 100 Shoveler.
22nd: 4 Goosander, 3 Grey Wagtail.
20th: 23 Siskin, 6 Bullfinch.
16th: Woodcock.
15th: Pr Raven, Brambling, 30 Siskin.
14th: 40 Chaffinch, 4 Water Rail, 2 Redpoll.
13th: Great White Egret (first reserve record; present for 2 hours, 12.50–15.50), Raven, Peregrine.
10th: 5 Snipe, a pair of Shelduck.
7th: 9 Goosander.
4th: Raven, Chiffchaff, Cetti's Warbler, 4 Water Rail, Goldeneye, 2 Goosander, pair of Stonechat.
3rd: Redshank, Peregrine, Stonechat, 2 Snipe.

Dec 28th

The Firecrest was showing at Alvecote again today, seen on the path off Laundry Lane, access Laundry Lane north from Shuttington Rd Bridge, go down lane for approx 150mts then go down tarmac path behind railings on the right.(Birdguides).
Also Lesser Scaup and drake Smew still at Draycote Water, both birds can be found in the normal places.(Toft & Farnborough Bank).

Bird News Extra Dec 27th

Nearby Reports.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Smew x7 (6x drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Little Stint Rutland Water Leics.
Great Northern Divers x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Smew (drake) Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve...........

Dec 27th

The first winter drake Lesser Scaup still present in toft at Draycote Water now into its 30th day, will it still be there on Jan 1st. Also present the drake Smew and 10 Goosanders. The Firecrest was calling and showing well half way along Laundry Lane Alvecote late afternoon.(Birdguides).Also at nearby Marsh Lane the Common (Mealy) Redpoll still present along the old road and causing a lot of debate over its ID.
Also c30 Pink-footed Geese (2 small flocks) flew over A45 Stonebridge island heading towards Marsh Lane but were not seen there. (J. Judge)

Bird News Extra Dec 26th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv)Ogston Res Derbys.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Saffs.
Great Northern Divers x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve......

Dec 26th Bird News.

At Alvecote Pools this morning a 3rd winter Y L Gull was noted on mill pool, and the male Firecrest was still showing along Laundry Lane also 2 Willow Tits. (Birdguides).
Two Ravens were seen over Illmington village this afternoon. (S Valentine).

Dec 26th Draycote.

Photo (Midland Bird Images.)
Myself and D Hutton made another trip to Draycote this morning, the Lesser Scaup was still in toft,the drake Smew made its way to the opposite side of toft after being flushed by sailing boats from Farnborough bank. A lage flock of 800+ Lapwing was noted flying around the reservoir, 20 Goosanders, 200+ Wigeon and 85 Great Crested Grebes and 75 Cormorants all in toft bay.(S Seal, D Hutton).

December 26th Draycote Water

This morning the Lesser Scaup male first winter still in toft and male Smew off farnborough bank. Also seen were 40+ Siskin, 12 Lesser Redpoll, Little Owl and male Pintail.

Richard

December 24th Draycote Roost

Three Yellow-legged Gulls in roost (adult and two first winters) but very poor viewing conditions.

Richard Mays & Dave Cox

Bird News Extra Dec 24th

Nearby Reports.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (2 x juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Mealy Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Regards Steve.........

Common (Mealy) Redpoll Marsh Lane.

Photo Midland Bird Images
The Common (Mealy) Redpoll is classed as a Scarce winter visitor, and can sometimes cause confusion. In the field Common Redpolls are noticeably bulkier in appearance when seen along side Lesser Redpolls with usually a bull necked appearance and are overall greyer in colouration.Common Redpolls have greyer upperparts with narrower dark centres and bordered greyish white fringes to the upperparts feathering compared with the much warmer brown toned Lessers.The wingbars formed by the tips of the greater coverts appear clean whitish compared with the buffish on the Lessers, and the fringes of many other feathers such as the primaries tertials and tail feathers are often noticeably whiter. The rump of Common Redpolls is whitish, and is usually lightly streaked but in flight this can often appear as an Arctic Redpoll like white patch. Lesser Redpolls rarely show such a pale rump. Also the dark centres to the undertail coverts are a feature which helps to seperate them from Arctic Redpolls which usually have either just a faint narrow shaft streak on these feathers or are totaly unmarked.
Steve.............

Dec 24th

Firecrest still 20mts along from wood lane car park at Earlswood lakes this morning in holy again.(M Silverman). At Draycote the first winter drake Lesser Scaup was re-located back in toft, and the drake Smew was showing well along farnborough bank, and around 60+ Siskins feeding in alders around toft.(Birdguides).The first winter drake Scaup still on Lea Marston lake this morning viewed from roadbridge, also Little Egret present.(Birdguides).The Bittern showed breifly again this morning to the left of east marsh hide Brandon. (P Sewell).

Bird News Extra Dec 23rd

Nearby Reports.
Red necked Grebe Rutland Water Leics.
Black necked Grebe Rutland Water Leics.
Bearded Tit Gailey Res Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Smew (drake) Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Smew (6 x drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Iceland Gull (juv) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Firecrest Barnt Green Worcs.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.

Nearby Marsh Lane Dec 23rd

Photo (Mealy Redpoll) Midland Bird Images.
Along the old road at Marsh Lane NR, the Mealy Redpoll was re-located with 5 x Lesser Redpolls. Also noted around 50+ Yellowhammers, good numbers of Chaffinches, Fieldfare, and a few Tree Sparrows. Also Peregrine over.
(S Seal , D Hutton).

News Round up Dec 23rd

At a foggy Draycote this morning the drake Smew was still off Farnborough Bank, but no sign of the Lesser Scaup (Fogbound) or as it gone?.Nearby on the A428 between Church Lawford and Bretford the Dark-bellied Brent Goose was located again in the same field. At Brandon Marsh a Bittern was showing well from East Marsh hide this morning.And at Lea Marston / Coton lakes 3 Scaup were seen 1x drake and 2x females.
The male Firecrest was still present along Laundry Lane Alvecote this morning but very elusive.And the Firecrest at Earlswood Lakes was showing well this morning at 9-45 in Holly in New Fallings Coppice .
Steve.......

Bird News Extra Dec 22nd

Nearby Reports.
Green Winged Teal (drake) Collingham Pits Notts.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Holme Pierrepont Notts
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (2w) Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv) Belvide Res Staffs.
Iceland Gull (2w) Cop Mere Staffs.
Iceland Gull Chasewater Staffs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart (imm/fem) Blithfield Staffs.
Bearded Tit Gailey Res Staffs.
Firecrest Barnt Green Worcs.
Smew (4drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Regards Steve........

Coton / Alvecote Dec 22nd

No unusual gulls in Coton roost this evening, but a Barn Owl on the way back to car park.(T Perrins).
Also there is probably 3 firecrests at Alvecote today. 2 at top end and one seen at same time at bottom end of Laundry Lane (per A Archer)

December 22nd

(Photos D.Hutton)

Today at Draycote,the drake Smew was showing well also the 1st winter Lesser Scaup showed very well from the picnic area at Toft but asleep most of the time!!! good numbers of Pochard,Tufted Duck,Wigeon & several Goosander

(D.Hutton,S.Seal.R.Mays)

Nearby Marsh Lane Dec 22nd

At Marsh Lane early afternoon a Mealy Redpoll with 3 Lesser Redpolls, along the old road. It was found earlier on by Graham Rowling and Paul Johnson. In flight it shows a striking white rump, making it look rather like an Arctic! also there Brambling and several Siskins.(J Oates).

News Round Up Dec 22nd

A Jack Snipe at Alvecote Pools this morning and the two Firecrests still present at the bottom end of Laundry Lane.The Dark-bellied Brent Goose was in the field again along the A428 between Church Lawford and Bretford, but flew off south east around midday.And the drake Red Crested Pochard was noted again at Lea Marston lake viewed from roadbridge.

Bird News Extra Dec 21st

Nearby Reports.
Green Winged Teal (drake) Collingham Pits Notts.
Firecrest Barnt Green Worcs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Smew x8 (6 drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Glaucous Gull (2 juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Pink Footed Goose Upton Warren Worcs.
Great Northern Divers x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve..........

Dec 21st Bird News

At Earlswood Lakes today the male Firecrest was seen again northwest of Terrys Pool in holly by the footpath at New Fallings coppice this morning (Birdguides).
At Draycote Water the first winter drake Lesser Scaup still showing well in toft, also a drake Smew and several Goosanders(Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Dec 20th

Nearby Reports.
Firecrest Barnt Green cricket club Worcs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Regards Steve.......

Dark-bellied Brent Goose

A Dark-bellied Brent Goose in a field just off the A428 between Church Lawford and Bretford today.

John Judge

Dec 20th

The first winter drake Lesser Scaup is still present at Draycote in toft this morning,also present one drake Smew. At Lawford Heath tip a first winter Iceland Gull and a first winter hybrid Glaucous x Herring Gull, and in my garden in Rugby a female Blackcap and Brambling today. (R Mays).

Bird News Extra Dec 19th

Nearby Reports.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Pink-footed Goose Upton Warren Worcs.
Regards Steve........

Lawford Heath Dec 19th

A juv Iceland Gull was on the Lawford Heath tip. Best viewed from Ling Lane near the derelict building, also hundreds of Fieldfare around.

John Judge

Smew Draycote Water

Photo at Draycote Water by (B Boswell)
A few Smew visit our county each year, they are described as a regular but scarce winter visitor. As with many species immatures and females collectively known as Redheads are more inclined to make these hard weather movements. But occasionally an adult drake appears in its stunning black and white plumage. Numbers of Smew vary annually, but are normally greatest when their wintering grounds around the Baltic and North sea coasts freeze, they then move westwards into Britian in search of open water.
Steve..

Dec 19th Round Up

Photo by (M Silverman)
Only one drake Smew seen today at Draycote, still present and showing well the first winter drake Lesser Scaup in toft.Also a Little Egret by the outflow breifly at 14-30(L Johnson), and 3 Y L Gulls in the roost. The Firecrest was seen again along Laundry Lane Alvecote this morning.(J Harris).

Bird News Extra Dec 18th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Bittern x2 Attenborough NR Notts.
Great Northern Diver Carsington Water Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv) Poolsbrook CP Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Poolsbrook CP Derbys.
Great Northern Divers x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve..........

Firecrests Alvecote Dec 18th

Two Firecrest c.50m along Laundry Lane Alvecote on the left hand side this morning,(J Galletly).

December 18th Draycote Water

Lesser Scaup first winter male still in toft bay
Smew (3) male off farnborough bank and another two males very mobile and between valve tower and biggen bay.
Due to wind direction (ENE) the gull roost gathered off golf course / biggen bay and included Iceland Gull first winter, Yellow-legged Gull 7 adults & 3 first winters, Caspian Gull adult & first winter and Med Gull adult winter.
also seen Treecreeper, Buzzard 2, Siskin 12, Little Owl, Kingfisher 2 and Snipe 7.

Richard

Bird News Extra Dec 17th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart (imm/fem) Blithfield Staffs.
Pink-footed Goose Upton Warren Worcs.
Smew (3x drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Regards Steve...........

Dec 17th Round Up

The first winter drake Lesser Scaup showing well at Draycote Water still in toft, and along Farnborough Bank now 2 x drake Smew,also Peregrine over this morning.(R Mays).
The Firecrest was still along Laundry Lane Alvecote today, towards the bottom end on left hand side.(J Matthews).

Bird News Extra Dec 16th

Nearby Reports.
Dusky Warbler Netherfield Lagoons Notts.
Iceland Gull (2w) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Black Redstart (imm/fem) Blithfield Staffs.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Iceland Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve.........

Dec 16th Round Up

Photo by (J Wesson).
At Draycote this morning a drake Smew was found just off Rainbow Corner (nice one Richard),the bird dosnt seem settled as it was soon to be found off the Valve Tower, then Biggin Bay and now Toft. Its going around in a clockwise direction so any body arriving mid afternoon if you wait by the visitors centre it should be there shortly.
Also present 51 Golden Plover, a Curlew and 30+ Siskins and the 1w drake Lesser Scaup still showing well in Toft now on its 19th day. At Alvecote this morning one Firecrest was still showing along Laundry Lane(T Perrins), also present a Jack Snipe and 7 Goosander on Mill Pool, and an unconfirmed report on a juv Glaucous Gull flying west over Alvecote at 9-20.The 1w drake Scaup ,drake Red Crested Pochard and a drake Pintail on Lea Marston balancing lakes this morning viewed from road bridge.(D Galletly). And 18 Goosanders (2 drakes) at Compton Verney today.This afternoon four Pintail (2drakes) on Lea Marston Lake and an adult Little Gull at Coton(J Oates). And in the roost at Coton this evening an adult Caspian and an adult Y L Gull (T Perrins).On Cliff Pool Kingsbury late afternoon, Pintail (drake), Shoveler 94, Teal 34, Pochard 16 and 10 Goldeneye.(WJE).
Steve...........

Bird News Extra 15th

Nearby Reports.
Iceland Gull (juv) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Black-throated Diver Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Iceland Gull (Juv) Belvide Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Walsall W .Mids.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Great Northern Diver Chasewater Staffs.
Bewick Swan x12 Eyebrook Res Leics.
Regards Steve.........

Dec 15th

The first winter drake Scaup and the drake Red Crested Pochard still at Lea Marston today. View from roadbridge only. (Birdguides).
One Firecrest seen again today at Laundry Lane Alvecote.
An adult Caspian Gull in the roost at Coton.

December 15th Draycote Water

No sign of Slavonian Grebe,
Lesser Scaup 1st winter male still in toft
Glaucous Gull flew over farnborough bank mid afternoon (none found in roost)
Caspian Gull adult off valve tower
Kittiwake adult in roost in toft bay
Goosander - many groups dotted around reservoir but mobile - poss as many as 53 and a further 55 flew over heading west
Tree Sparrow, Brambling and 8 Siskin

Richard Mays, Steve Seal etc all

Bird News Extra Dec 14th

Nearby Reports.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2xjuvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv) Church Wilne Res Derbys.
Regards Steve.........

Dec 14th

First winter darke Scaup still present at Lea Marston this morning, viewed from roadbridge. (J Oates).
At Alvecote 2 x Firecrests along Laundry Lane this morning, also 8 x Lesser Redpolls. (RBA Pager).
The first winter drake Lesser Scaup still in toft at Draycote Water also Slavonian Grebe reported again. (Birdguides).
Juvenile Glauc still Dosthill present from midday today (Alan Dean).
No sign of Great White Egret in Ladywalk area today (S Cawthray).

Draycote Roost Dec 13th

Glaucous Gull 2x juvs , also 10 Y L Gulls. (R Mays, T Marlow).

Bird News Extra Dec 13th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Brent Goose dark-bellied x5 Pitsford Res Northants.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Iceland Gull (juv) Hollowell Res Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Great Northern Diver Carsington Water Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve.........

Dec 13th

The first winter drake Lesser Scaup still in toft at Draycote Water this morning but no sign of yesterdays Slavonian Grebe. (B Duckhouse).
Also at Lea Marston this morning the first winter drake Scaup and the drake Red Crested Pochard still present, view only from road bridge. (J Oates).
The Firecrest was still along Laundry Lane Alvecote again today also Lesser Spotted Woody (Birdguides).

G W Egret Ladywalk Dec 13th.

A Great White Egret flew north over Ladywalk at 2.50pm.It had been seen at few times on the reserve, river and Whitacre Pool between 12.50 and then, thought to be probably feeding along the river. (S Cawthray ).

The European spread almost certainly explains these recent appearances in Warwickshire, this species now has small colonies in the Netherlands and N W France.This now being our fifth record to date.
1st Brandon 08-07-92.
2nd Somers 21-07-95.
3rd Alvecote Pools 21-05-00.
4th Dunchurch 05-10-07.
Steve.....

Bird News Extra Dec 12th

Nearby Reports.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black-throated Diver Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve.........

Firecrest Alvecote Dec 12th

The Firecrest is still present along Laundry Lane Alvecote.
Laundry lane is on the far side of the river bridge on the road from Alvecote to Shuttington. As the road turns right immediately after the bridge it is the narrow lane on the left Grid reference SK249051 As well as the Firecrests (2 different birds present) there was also a rather confiding male Lesser Spotted Woodpecker around the dead elms at the bottom of Laundry Lane at the weekend.

Can I ask birders not to drive to the top of Laundry Lane as it often disturbs the birds. Unfortunately you also run the risk of either getting a puncture or having your car broken into if you leave your car in the fisherman's car park. Please park sensibly in the large pull-in at the bottom of the Lane and please remove any valubles from view.

Happy birdin'

(A Archer.)

December 12th Draycote Water

p.m. visit
Lesser Scaup first winter male still in toft
Slavonian Grebe rainbow moved to valve tower
Glaucous Gull first winter in roost
Yellow-legged Gull (8) 5 adults 3 first winters

Also a possible juv Kumlien's Gull in roost

Richard Mays & John judge

Bird News Extra Dec 11th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Black-throated Diver Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Great Northern Diver x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver Carsington Water Leics.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve...........

Dec 11th Firecrest

Firecrest showing well along laundry lane Alvecote pools (Birdguides).

Lea Marston Dec 11th

This morning 1st w drake Scaup and drake Red-crested Pochard still present.(J Oates).

December 11th Ryton Woods & Draycote Water

Ryton Woods
Tawny Owl and Woodcock 2

Draycote Water
Lesser Scaup 1st winter male still in toft
Jack Snipe toft shallows shore line opposite hide a.m.
Siskin 35 toft shallows pond
Bewick Swan 2 flew off south
Goosander 18
Gadwall 18
Great-crested Grebe 209 (influx)

Richard

Draycote Water roost
Yellow-legged Gull (7) 6 adults and one 2nd winter
Black-tailed Godwit landed on outlet just before dusk
Kingfisher 2 (one with only one eye)

Richard & John judge

Bird News Extra Dec 10th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2 x juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver Chasewater Staffs.
Black-throated Diver Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Smew x3 (2 drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Regards Steve...........

Dec 10th

The first winter drake Lesser Scaup still in toft at Draycote Water.(RBA Pager).

Dosthill 10th Dec

In pre-roost: Juv Glaucous Gull (slightly smaller and paler-headed than the late-Nov bird); 2W Caspian Gull; adult Yellow-legged Gull.
Nearly all the large gulls flew off at 16:15h, most heading north. (ARDean).

Bird News Extra Dec 9th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2xjuvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Black-throated Diver Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Great Northern Diver x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve...........

December 9th Draycote

Lesser Scaup still present in Toft Bay.

Bird News Extra Dec 8th

Nearby Reports.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Jack Snipe Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve..........

Dec 8th

In the gull roost at Coton this evening an adult Caspian Gull, also a 4th winter Y L Gull (T Perrins).
At Draycote today the 1st winter drake Lesser Scaup still present. (RBA Pager).

Kingsbury Cliff Pool
Redshank x4 , Snipe x8 , Gadwall x62 , Wigeon x48 , Shoveler x60 , Teal x36 , Tufted Duck x20 , Pochard x21 , Goldeneye x8. (WJE).

Bird News Extra Dec 7th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2x juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Smew x3 (2xdrakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Jack Snipe Marsh Lane W.Mids. (from Oak hide).
Regards Steve..........

Dec 7th

The first winter drake Scaup still present at Lea Marston lake this morning, viewed from roadbridge. (Birdguides).
No sign today of the juv Glaucous Gull at Judkins Quarry landfill site Nuneaton.
Cliff pool Kingsbury late afternoon, 12x Goldeneye, 4x Shelduck,2x Goosander, and a Redshank (WJE).

December 7th Draycote Water

Lesser Scaup first winter male still in toft bay by second car park. Also Goosander 22, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk 2, Grey Wagtail and Kingfisher.

Richard Mays, Dave Cox, Pete & Linda Price

December 6th Draycote Water

Walked to Valve Tower and had a few Goosanders and 2 Grey Plovers calling over hensborough bank. Over a hundred Greenfinches by Sailing Club.

Richard Mays / Dave Cox

Bird News Extra Dec 6th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2x juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Great Northern Diver Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Bittern x2 Upton Warren Worcs.
Regards Steve.........

Dec 6th

At Lea Marston this morning the drake Red Crested Pochard was present , but flew from there at 11-10. (J Oates).
The juv Glaucous Gull was seen again at Judkins Quarry landfill site around lunch time. (D Hutton).
First winter Lesser Scaup still present this morning in toft at Draycote, also present 2 x Red breasted Mergansers. (Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Dec 5th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W. Mids.
Bittern x2 Upton Warren Worcs.
Regards Steve.........

Dec 5th

At judkins quarry landfill site Nuneaton the juv Glaucous Gull was present again today, viewed from main road by bus stop opposite Queen Elizabeth road. (D Hutton , J Galletly).

At Draycote this morning the first winter Lesser Scaup was still in toft, also a Turnstone on shore by visitor centre. (K Groocock).

Bird News Extra Dec 4th

Nearby Reports.
Iceland Gull (juv) Stanwick GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Stanwick GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Great Northern Diver Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Smew x3 (2xdrakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Regards Steve............

December 4th Draycote Water

Lesser Scaup first winter male still in toft bay
Aythya hybrid first winter male prob tufted x pochard parentage nr croft point
Siskin 20 biggen bay & 30 toft shallows
Lesser Redpoll 10+ toft shallows
Turnstone on fishing platforms
Goosander 40 +
Med Gull first winter in pre-roost toft bay
Raven 3 over toft & thurlaston area


Richard

December 4th

Photo by Bob Duckhouse
Glaucous Gull (Juv) showing well in Judkins Quarry on the landfill site,also 2 Raven over
2 Water Rail showing 2 others calling on stream in Whittleford C.P
1 Water Rail off the point on Seeswood Pool

(D.Hutton,R.Dawkins)

Bird News Extra Dec 3rd

Nearby Reports.
Tundra Bean Goose Titchmarsh NR Northants.
Great Northern Diver (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Smew x3 (2 drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Regards Steve..........

Dec 3rd

A (juv) Glaucous Gull flew west near Judkins Quarry late afternoon.(S M Haynes).
The first winter Lesser Scaup still present in toft bay Draycote Water.(Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Dec 2nd

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Smew x3 Eyebrook Res Leics.
Regards Steve............

Dec 2nd

The 1w drake Lesser Scaup still present in toft this morning at Draycote Water.(RBA Pager).
Cliff Pool Kingsbury this afternoon,
1 Redshank, 49 Snipe, 8 Goldeneye, 2 Shelduck, 90 Shoveler, 28 Gadwall, 48 Teal,26 Pochard, 15 Wigeon (WJE).
A male Peregrine flew over the A428 at Church Lawford from Lawford Heath at 15-00 this afternoon.(J Judge).

Bird News Extra Dec 1st

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (2x juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (2x juvs) Chasewater Res Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Great Northern Diver (adult) Ogston Res Derbys.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Great Grey Shrike Cromford Derbys.
Whooper Swan Belvide Res Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve..........

Dec 1st

Photo Glaucous Gull (juv) Dosthill (A R Dean).
A pair of Lesser Spotted Woodies today at Whitacre Heath Nr (J Wesson).
Glaucous Gull (juv) Dosthill Lake again this afternoon (J Allen).
Coton roost two adult Y L Gulls.(RBA Pager).
Caspian Gull x 2 adults Draycote Water (RBA Pager).
Goosander at Brandon Marsh today (D McIntosh).

Lesser Scaup Dec 1st

After arriving at Draycote at 7-30 this morning it took 25mins to locate the first winter drake Lesser Scaup feeding about 30yds out by the picnic area in toft. Weather conditions were very windy not ideal for photography, but good light. After around 4 hrs some reasonable images were obtained, it was still present at 12-30 when i left.
Regards Steve................

Bird News Extra Nov 30th

Nearby Reports.
Iceland Gull x 2 (juvs) Stanwick GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Ring-billed Gull (adult) Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Bittern Stanwick GPs Northants.
Red-necked Grebe Thornton Res Leics.
Regards Steve...........

Nov 30th

The first winter drake Scaup still at Lea Marston this morning, also drake R C Pochard . (J Oates).
Pair Stonechats still watery lane Shustoke .
Glaucous Gull (juv) Dosthill Lake 14-00 / 16-00 when it flew south(A R Dean).

November 30th Draycote

Very brief visit this afternoon - Lesser Scaup 1st winter male still present in toft bay

Richard mays Dave Cox

Bird News Extra Nov 29th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Stanwick GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Regards Steve................

Draycote Roost Nov 29th

Draycote roost
Adult Caspian Gull, 2 1st Winter, 2nd Winter & Adult Yellow-legged Gulls.
Regards
Mike Doughty & Tim Marlow.

Nov 29th

Whittleford CP four Water Rails heard on Kingfisher pool, the male eclipse Shoveler still on clay pool , also two Ravens over. (R Dawkins).
At Fishers Mill 5 x Water Rail , 3 x Redshank and a Snipe. (BLK).
Barn Owl again in hollow tree on Teal Pool Brandon (M Silverman).

November 29th

First winter male Lesser Scaup still present in Toft Bay and has been showing well most of the day to the photographers. This is a new bird for Draycote Water.

Richard

Bird News Extra Nov 28th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Drayton Bassett Pits Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Med Gull (1w) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Bittern x2 Upton Warren Worcs.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Regards Steve.................

Lesser Scaup Draycote Nov 28th

Photos by Steve Valentine

A first winter drake Lesser Scaup can be found in Toft Bay Draycote Water. It was found yesterday by Richard Mays ,but due to bad weather and a few Aythya Hybrids in our area it has taken untill today to confirm its ID with the help of some excellent photos by Steve Valentine .If accepted it will be the third record for Warwickshire, all coming in the last two years.

Farnborough Park 27th February 2005 (1w female).

Kingsbury WP 21st May 2005 (drake).

Regards Steve............

Nov 28th

Lesser Spotted Woody again today at Whitacre Heath NR (J Hoyle).
Two Y L Gulls (adult / 2w) in Coton roost tonight. (RBA Pager).
Glaucous Gull (1w) Dosthill lake today (RBA Pager).

November 28th Draycote Water

The "Lesser Scaup" was still in toft bay. Having spent most of the day with it and with Steve Valentine getting some good photos this afternoon this could be the genuine article.
(http://steve-valentine.fotopic.net)

Also seen were:-
Dunlin 2, Sanderling 2 over, Peregrine, Siskin 20+, Kingfisher 2 and a Redshank reported.

Tim Marlow had four Yellow-legged Gulls in roost


Richard

Bird News Extra Nov 27th

Nearby Reports.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull x3 (juvs) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Drayton Bassett Pits Staffs.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Great Northern Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Long tailed Duck (1w drake) Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve..................

Nov 27th

Barn Owl at Brandon in hollow tree on teal pool (P Norman).
A pair of Stonechats watery lane / blythe mill lane Shustoke on reedmace (B Kington).
Red Crested Pochard drake still Lea Marston lake (G Williams).

November 27th Draycote Water

Found a duck in toft bay this afternoon resembling a first winter male "lesser scaup" but have not rule the possibility of it being a hybrid. Poor weather conditions did not help in clinching the key features even with the help of Tim Marlow who came down with his library. Keep an eye out for it tomorrow if your going.

Also present were Goosander 23, Siskin 20+, Ruddy Duck 4, and Gadwall 32.
First winter Caspian Gull just off the sailing club.
Barn Owl flew across the fields between Halfway Lane and Dunchurch towards the M45

Richard

November 27th

Whittleford C.P
4 Water Rail on stream by Kingfisher pool also 1 Kingfisher
1 Shoveler & 1 Female Goldeneye on the clay pool

Seeswood Pool
1 Female Goosander still present also 1 Water Rail in flight off the point

(D.Hutton,R.Dawkins)

Bird News Extra Nov 26th

Nearby Reports.
Ring billed Gull (adult) Carsington Water Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Glaucous Gull x2 (juvs) Stanwick GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Med Gull x2 (adults) Sandwell RSPB W.Mids.
Great Northern Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Whooper Swans x6 Essington Quarry Staffs.
White Fronted Goose x4 Pitsford Res Northants.
Long tailed Duck (1w drake) Rutland Water Leics.
Brent Goose Rutland Water Leics.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Regards Steve...............

Lea Marston Nov 26th

Scaup still at Lea Marston today but no sign of R C Pochard. (RBA Pager).

Bird News Extra Nov 25th

Nearby Reports.
Ring billed Gull (adult) Carsington Water Derbys.
Glaucous Gull x2 (2w/Juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (adult) Ditchford GPs Northants.
White fronted Goose x4 Pitsford Res Northants.
Med Gull (adult) Sandwell Valley RSPB W.Mids.
Long tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Regards Steve.................

Alvecote Nov 25th

This afternoon there were 2 x FIRECRESTS on the Staffordshire side of Laundry Lane. They spent a lot of time in the oaks just before the first obvious bend before doing a circuit and disappearing. Yesterday I heard one call from the Warwickshire side about 50 yards up from the bend but a van went passed and flushed the bird before I could get onto it. One was also seen on the Warwickshire side of the Lane at about 9.30am this morning. An immaculate adult YELLOW-LEGGED GULL dropped into Mill Pool briefly at around 10.15am and again from 3.20pm to 3.40pm. There were also 3 x GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULLS (ad & 2 x 1st winters). These birds are real Alvecote MEGAS, probably rarer than Yellow-legged Gull!

Just up the road on Lea Marston balancing lake the 1st winter drake GREATER SCAUP was still present along with the drake RED-CRESTED POCHARD. (A Archer).

Draycote Nov 25th.

A Bar tailed Godwit was found this morning by the outflow, also noted Golden Plover 20+, Dunlin 2, Siskin 14, Lesser Redpoll 2. (K Groocock ).

November 25th

Two Barn Owls Napton area
Red-crested Pochard male Wormleighton Reservoir + 2 Kingfisher, Tree Sparrow, Nuthatch 3 & Willow Tit 3.
Brandon Marsh had Willow Tit, Siskin 4, Goosander and Goldeneye.

Thousands of Fieldfare and Redwing in Hedgerow's on our travel's

Richard Mays & Dave Cox

Bird News Extra Nov 24th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull x2 (2w / juv) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Bartley Res W. Mids.
Glaucous Gull x2 (2x juvs) Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Long tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve................

Nov 24th

Red Crested Pochard (drake) still present at Lea Marston lake this afternoon view from roadbridge. (RBA Pager).
Firecrest Coventry in garden at 1-45 (RBA Pager).
Green Sandpiper Draycote Water (J Oates).
Red Crested Pochard drake Cliff Pool Kingsbury at 3-20. (RBA Pager).
Brambling (fem) at south view feeding station Polesworth. (A Archer).

Brandon Nov 24th

Lesser Spotted Woody (male) showing around central marsh pool, but no sign of yesterdays L E Owl at carlton hide. Also present 30 Siskin and Willow Tit. (J Wesson).

Bird News Extra Nov 23rd

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Bartley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (2w) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Bittern Upton Waren Worcs.
Whooper Swans x3 Whitemoor Haye Staffs.
Regards Steve.............

Nov 23rd

Long eared Owl to the left of carlton hide Brandon today, also Green Sand and Goosander (fem). (RBA Pager)

Cliff Pool Kingsbury.
Shoveler 130
Pochard 24
Teal 30
Wigeon 19
Goldeneye 7
Snipe 19
(WJE).

Napton Res 23rd Nov

4 Bewick's Swan flew over napton res c3.30 today (T. Marlow)

November 23rd Draycote

At least 6 Yellow-legged Gulls and Med Gull first winter in roost this evening.
Little Owl Country Park

Richard Mays, John Judge, Terry Brindley & Ben MacDonald

Bird News Extra Nov 22nd

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull x2 ( 2w / juv ) Frankley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Dudley W.Mids.
Firecrest Clifford Hill GPs Northants.
Regards Steve................

November 22nd Draycote Roost

Iceland Gull juv / first winter off Draycote Bank
Yellow-legged Gull 4 adults off Draycote Bank
Caspian Gull 2 adults off Draycote Bank
Brambling male Biggen Bay
Kingfisher off Valve Tower
also Grey Wagtail 3, Goosander 10+, Gadwall 22 and Great-spotted Woodpecker

regards

Richard

Nov 22nd

First winter drake Scaup still present at Lea Marston this morning , also drake R C Pochard. (J Oates).

Bird News Extra Nov 21st

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Bartley Res W. Mids.
Glaucous Gull 2 ( 2 w and Juv) Frankley Res W. Mids.
Tundra Bean Goose Ditchford GPs Northants.
Long tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve.............

Nov 21st

A Firecrest today along laundry lane Alvecote (RBA Pager).
Bittern seen again at Ladywalk also a drake Red Crested Pochard. (RBA Pager).

Brandon Nov 20th

At Brandon today a female Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was noted at Primrose Bank.
(RBA Pager).

20th November

Female Goosander on Seeswood Pool,Nuneaton this morning also 20+ Siskin feeding in Alders at the back of the pool.

Bird News Extra Nov 19th

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gulls x2 (2w - Juv) Bartley Res W. Mids.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Firecrest Cannock Chase Staffs.
Regards Steve........

Nov 19th

A male Brambling on garden feeder at Guys Cliffe Warwick, also 6 Lesser Redpolls. (RBA Pager).
At Fishers Mill the Cettis Warbler is still prersent. (J Harris).

November 19th

No sign of the Pomarine Skua which went over Draycote yesterday and appeared to go down in fields behind rainbow corner in appalling weather. Checked the fields in the Hill, Birdingbury, Frankton and Bourton area and had 20 Golden Plover, a Tawney Owl near Hill roosting in a pine tree and a Corn Bunting near Bourton.

Richard

Bird News Extra Nov 18th

Nearby Reports.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Bartley Res W. Mids.
Regards Steve..............

Nov 18th

Two Bramblings at Guys Cliffe Warwick this morning also a female Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, in a private garden. (RBA Pager).
An adult Caspian Gull again in the roost at Coton tonight also adult Y L Gull (T Perrins).

Bird News Extra Nov 17th

Nearby Reports.
Med Gull adult Gailey Reservoir Staffs.
Whooper Swan x3 Alrewas GPs Staffs.
Whooper Swan x6 Essington Quarry Pool Staffs.
Knot Blithfield Staffs.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Long-tailed Duck (dam) Rutland Water Leics.
Slavonian Grebe (north arm) Rutland Water Leics.
Med Gull adult Chasewater Staffs.
Short-eared Owls x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Bramblings x500+ Wyre Forest Worcs.
Regards Steve................

Draycote Roost Nov 17th

Caspian Gull 4 three adults and one near adult
Yellow-legged Gull 7 adults

Richard Mays, John Judge, Steve Valentine, Kevin Greencock, Jon Pete & Dave Hall

also Dunlin, Goosander 18 and Ringed Plover flew over

Richard Mays

Peregrine over Rookery Farm, Lawford Heath John Judge

Coton Roost Nov 17th

Adult Caspian Gull in Coton roost this evening. (J Oates, T Perrins).

Nov 17th

The first winter drake Scaup still present this morning at Lea Marston lake from roadbridge.
(J Oates).
Six Shelduck and three Stonechats at Alvecote Pools this morning. (RBA Pager).
Two Bramblings still present around car park at Hartshill Hayes today, also Raven over. (R Dawkins).
Two Ravens over Ryton this morning. (B Minshull).
Red Crested Pochard (drake) reported again this evening at Lea Marston lake. (RBA Pager).

Bird News Extra Nov 16th

Nearby Reports.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Glaucous Gull (1stw) Bartley Res W Mids.
Brent Goose Glifford Hall GPs Northants.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve..............

Fishers Mill Nov 16th

Fisher's Mill Meadow 16/11/07 Pair Stonechat, 5 Snipe, 10 Fieldfare,Meadow Pipit, 2 Song Thrush, Kingfisher.Fisher's Mill Redshank, 3 Snipe,5 Water Rail, 20 Redwing, Skylark, GreyWag, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Meadow Pipit f/o.Found a Chiffchaff here today Ihave noticed in the past a movement into the Drayton Bassett Pits(Staffs), Fisher's mill area mid November.
(J Harris).

Draycote Water Nov 16th

No sign of yesterday's glaucous gull but JJ found a pale mantled juvenile/first winter Iceland Gull. Also present were Capsian Gull 2 adults, Yellow-legged Gull 2 adults, Pintail male, Dunlin, Goosander 8 and 22 Golden Plover over.

Richard Mays & John Judge

Hartshill Hayes CP 16th

Feeding around the car park at Hartshill Hayes this afternoon were a pair of Bramblings, also noted Coal, Willow, Great, Blue, Long-tailed Tits, Nuthatches, Goldfinches, Chaffinches and several Redwings feeding on the berries.

Regards Steve................

Warwick Nov 16th

Two male Bramblings in silver birches at the Ridgeway Warwick this afternoon. (RBA Pager).

Lea Marston Nov 16th

The first winter drake Scaup is still present at Lea Marston viewed fron roadbridge, also a drake Red Crested Pochard and two Goosander. (RBA Pager).

Bird News Extra Nov 15th

Nearby Reports.
Pomarine Skua (departed 11-45 WSW) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull ( in gull roost) Chasewater Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck (off the dam) Rutalnd Water Leics.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Bewick Swans x3 Belvide Staffs.
Regards Steve...........

November 15th

1 Peregrine Falcon over Hartshill Hayes this afternoon also Brambling at the feeders seen this morning by the Head Warden

Nov 15th

22 x Goosanders noted at Draycote this morning. (J Oates).
Stonechat Draycote by outflow (M Silverman).
At Ladywalk the Bittern were seen again. (J Harris).
And at Fishers Mill a Cettis Warbler was heard breifly and a Water Pipit seen flying towards Dosthill Lake. (J Harris).
Golden Plover flock still around 400, just south of Meriden on A452.
Caspian Gull adult Coton roost this evening. (RBA Pager).

November 14th and 15th

November 14th
Draycote Water
Common Scoter 10, Pintail 2m, Goosander 6, Dunlin 2, Siskin 3 via logbook P & L Price

November 15th
Draycote Water
No sign of Scoter,s when mist lifted. Increase in Cormorant, Goosander, Great crested Grebe and Goldeneye numbers, Shoveler 4, Gadwall 19, Kingfisher 2, Buzzard 2.

According to walkers i chatted to today who were going round yesterday they said they met another walker who had seen a dead little Auk being eaten by Black-headed Gulls on north shore. Unfortunately no other details (i.e. names, time etc) to clarify whether at any stage it was alive. Sorry for this being third hand news but of interest as the east coast little Auk passage continues.

Napton Reservoir
Common Scoter female hiding in reed bed, Water Rail, Cetties Warbler and Grey Partridge.

Draycote Water (roost)
Yellow-legged Gull 2 adults & 1 first winter
Caspian Gull 1 nr adult (same bird as saturday night)
Glaucous Gull first winter in roost very late

Richard

Bird News Extra Nov 14th

Nearby Reports.
Pomarine Skua (adult) still Chasewater Staffs.
Grey Phalarope(off the dam) Rutland Water Leics.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Regards Steve...............

November 14th

Napton Reservoir
Common Scoter female still present (T Marlow)

Nov 14th

At Coton this morning a first winter drake Scaup.
(J Oates).

Bird News Extra Nov 13th

Nearby Reports.
Pom Skua (adult) Chasewater Staffs........Showing very well.
Slavonian Grebe Chasewater Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck Rutland Water Leics.

Bittern Ladywalk Nov 12th

Bittern still Ladywalk and fem Goosander (RBA)

Bird News Extra Nov12th

Nearby Reports.
Pomarine Skua (adult) Chasewater Staffs.
Water Pipit Blithfield Staffs.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Regards Steve..................

Coton Roost Nov 12th

Med Gull adult, and Y L Gull adult in Coton roost tonight.
(A Dean).

Napton Res 12th Nov

Fem/imm Common Scoter still Napton Res. Prob present from at least the 10th (T. Marlow)

Warwick Nov 12th

Two Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers reported this morning in a garden at Guys Cliff Warwick.
(RBA Pager).

Brandon Nov 12th

At Brandon this morning, 2 Water Rail, 4 Common Snipe and 1 Jack Snipe, no sign of Lesser Spotted Woody. A few Siskins also noted.
(M Silverman).

Draycote Nov 12th

A report this morning from Draycote of possibly two Grey Phalaropes flying from Biggin Bay to the centre of the res.
Draycote 12-30.
Adult Kittiwake again, also 5 Black tailed Godwits in Biggin Bay, no further sign of possible Phalaropes.
(RBA Pager).

Napton Res 11th Nov

Fem/imm Common Scoter at Napton Res this afternoon (T. Marlow)

Bird News Extra Nov 11th

Nearby Reports.
Bittern x2 Upton Warren Worcs.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Whooper Swans x2 Clay Mills Staffs.
Long tailed Duck (fem) Rutland Water Leics.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Regards Steve..............

Visit Ladywalk Latest News.

Ladywalk NR for latest news.

http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com/ladywalk/latest.htm

Brandon Nov 11th

( photo by P Sewell).

Two Grey Phalaropes on East marsh pool being chased off by a Juv G.B.B.Gull ,then settled on Teal pool to be chased off again. (13.00) Plenty of Siskins in the Alders, LSW heard but not seen. (P Sewell).
Also early this morning the Stonechat still showing well from carlton hide.
(P Norman).

Meriden Nov 11th

Just south of Meriden on A452 the Golden Plover flock is now estimated to contain around 750 birds.
(M Silverman).

Bird News Extra Nov 10th

Nearby Reports.
Firecrest x2 Highfields Park Notts.
Whooper Swans x6 Essington Quarry Pool Staffs.
Kittiwake x2 Blithfield Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck (fem) Rutland Water Leics.
Gt Northern Diver Rutland Water Leics.
Scaup (1st w drake) Rutland Water Leics.
Water Pipit Grimley New Workings Worcs.
Grey Phalarope Upton Warren Worcs.
Brent Goose Clifford Hill GP Northants.
Regards Steve............

Draycote Nov 10th

Also present this morning a 1st cy Kittiwake seen around biggin bay.
(J Oates).

WMBC Annual Report

The West Midland Annual report for 2005 is now available, congratulations to S Valentine for front cover photo for the second year running. Well done mate.
Steve..............

Coton Gull Roost Nov 10th

In the gull roost this evening at Coton a 3rd winter Caspian Gull and 2nd winter Y L Gull,
both showing well from the hide.
(T Perrins, J Allen, J Oates, R Smith).

Warwick Nov 10th

Four Goosanders were present at Warwick Castle this morning.
(M Smith).

Kingsbury Nov 10th

At cliff pool Kingsbury today a Whooper Swan was present at 11-50, it later flew off north.
(A Burton, M Whale.)

Brandon Nov 10th

At Brandon this morning the Lesser Spotted Woody again around goose pool also Stonechat infront of carlton hide. Also good numbers of Siskin seen around the reserve.
(J Wesson, G Blockley).

Nov 10th Draycote and Napton

Draycote Water (am)
Peregrine
Merlin female hunting over rainbow
Curlew 3 over
Goosander 4 male
Kittiwake adult flew over
Grey Wagtail 1

Napton Reservoir
Fieldfare 300+
Redwing 50
Ruddy Duck in reeds
Lesser Redpoll 2
Kingfisher 1

more Fieldfare and Redwings in nearby hedgerow

Draycote Water roost
Yellow-legged Gull 3 adults
Caspian Gull near adult
Sparrowhawk flew in front of the gull watchers
Goosander 4 male & 1 female
"Baltic gull" possible first winter

Many thanks to all those who attended the roost and those supporting me.

Richard Mays & Steve Seal

Bird News Extra Nov 9th

Nearby Reports.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Whooper Swans x4 Belvide Res Staffs.
Long-tailed Duck (fem) Rutland Water Leics.
Regards Steve..........

Ladywalk Nov 9th

At Ladywalk today the two Stonechats are still around crake corner, three Bramblings on the silver birch trees to the left of the feeding station , also Redpoll and Siskin noted today, along with Woodcock, Jack Snipe and several Water Rail. But no sign of any Bitterns.
(S Cawthray).

Nov 9th Ashlawn Cutting

A sheltered walk produced many Fieldfare and Redwing with a few Siskin and Bramling over. Only other bird of note was a Sparrowhawk.

Richard

Brandon Nov 9th

Lesser spotted Woody still present at Brandon today, also Jack Snipe on east marsh .
(RBA Pager).

Bird News Extra Nov 8th

Nearby Reports
Grey Phalarope Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern x2 Upton Warren Worcs.
Gt N Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Regards Steve...........

Grey Phalaropes 2007

This year has seen three Grey Phalaropes in Warwickshire, the best year within the last 40 years.The three records involved birds at Shustoke, Draycote and Earlswood Lakes. All were well watched and it gave Warwickshire birders a chance to see this species at close quarters.With strong winds due over the next few days this total could rise.
Previous records are as follows.
Bodymoor Heath 02-11-69
Draycote Water 13-11-77
Alvecote Pools 22-11-77
Draycote Water 31-12-78
Draycote Water 28-09-82
Coton Lakes 29-10-83
Draycote Water 18-10-87
Draycote Water 25-09-88 ( x2 birds)
Middelton Hall 07-10-90
Jubilee Pools 02-09-94
Draycote Water 24-09-95
Kenilworth 05-10-01
Shustoke Res 03-11-05
Shustoke Res 29-09-07
Draycote Water 02-10-07
Earlswood Lakes 03-10-07

Steve.............

Kineton / Marsh Lane Nov 8th

M.O.D. Kineton today , Raven, 2 x Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, 100 Fieldfare, 100 Redwing and a Peregrine. ( J Sharman).
Marsh Lane, 5 x Tree Sparrows on the reserve and by the entrance on A452 around 300 plus Golden Plovers. (Max).

Brandon Marsh Nov 8th

A male Lesser spotted Woodpecker seen today at Brandon on south bank of path between Goose pool and central marsh pool at 11-30.
(RBA Pager).

November 8th Draycote Water

Again very little despite the wind till the mother of all rain storms this afternoon brought in adult Kittiwake and Bar-tailed Godwit (toft). Also seen were Dunlin, Goosander 8, Goldeneye 10, Siskin 4 and 3 Kingfisher.

Richard

Bird News Extra Nov 7th

Nearby Reports.
Bittern 2x Upton Warren Worcs.
Long tailed Duck (fem) Rutland Water Leics.
Gt N Diver Pitsford Res Northants.
Regards Steve...............

Kingsbury Nov 7th

Cliff Pool this evening, 150 Shoveler, 40 + Teal and a Stonechat along the path by sita hide.
(WJE.)

Plover flock by M40 7th

A flock of 50+ Golden Plover in fields nr Jct15 of M40 by A429 turning today.
(Andy).

Brandon 7th

A Short-eared Owl flew over east marsh at 1-00.

(P Sewell).

Draycote 7th

Draycote this morning 0715 / 1115
Grey Wagtail 2; Shoveler 7; Goosander 4m 3f; Pochard 17; Kestrel 3;Bullfinch 14 mf; Fieldfare 100+; Blackcap 1m; Goldcrest 18; Gadwall;Redwing 70+; Goldeneye 15 mf; Wigeon; Teal; Meadow Pipit 40+; SongTHrush 3; Green Woodpecker 3; Great Sp Woodpecker 2; Dabchick 50+;Linnet;
(K Groocock. )

Plovers Hartshill Nov 6th

100 Golden Plovers in fields off Woodford Lane Hartshill today.
( J Harris.)

Bird News Extra Nov 6th

Nearby Reports.
Arctic Skua (juv) Eyebrook Res Leics.
B N Grebe Rutland Water Leics.
Long tailed Duck (female) Rutland Water Leics.
Great Northern Diver Pitsford Northants.
Bittern Upton Warren Worcs.
Gt G Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Regards Steve.....................

Ladywalk Nov 6th

At Ladywalk today, two Bittern reported also two Curlew, two Green Sands, two Stonechat, three Goosanders, 50 Shovelers and two Buzzard. At nearby Coleshill Quarry, two Stonechat, eight Snipe and a Kingfisher.
( B. Kington, J Harris. )

Draycote Nov 6th

November 6th
Footpath between Dunchurch and Grandborough
Stonechat 2, Fieldfare/Redwing 500+, Buzzard 2.

Draycote Water
Another quiet day boosted by accidently flushing a Woodcock from Toft Shallows Pool. Goosander 4 and 8 Goldeneye on water, plenty of Fieldfare and Redwing in adjacent hedgerows. Kingfisher 2. Gull roost very late coming in tho a probable Caspian Gull adult seen at 1530hrs and two Yellow-legged Gulls adults later.

Richard

One of those days

November 5th
Draycote Water

A goose sp flew over this morning very low but got on to it to late and flew down Leam Valley with out certain i.d - had the jizz of pink-footed.

Tonight i got on to what I thought was an adult Iceland Gull-banged me scope and could not find it again - may be wishful thinking. Adult Yellow-legged Gull, Goldeneye 5, Goosander 3 and 26 Gadwall the highlights of 7hrs birding and 28 miles biking.

Richard

Bird News Extra Nov 5th

Nearby Reports.
Great Grey Shrike Cannock Chase Staffs.
Arctic Skua (juv) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Smew (redhead) Pitsford Northants.
Gt N Diver Pitsford Northants.
Long tailed Duck (female) Rutland Water.
Little Stint Blithfield Staffs.
Regards Steve...........

Last Months News (October)

Oct 1st
Two juv Gannets flew south early afternoon through Shustoke, and the Bittern showed again from riverwalk hide.
Oct 2nd
Two Little Stints, two Rock Pipits and a Grey Phalarope in rainbow corner Draycote (J Oates).
The Bittern showed again at Ladywalk.
Oct 3rd
Another Grey Phalarope, this time at Earlswood Lakes, two Little Stints at Draycote and a Little Stint and the Bittern again at Ladywalk.
Oct 4th
The Grey Phalarope was still at Earlswood and the two Stints still at Draycote.
Oct 5th
The Grey Phalarope still showing well at Earlswood, and Bittern, Jack Snipe and four Little Egrets at Ladywalk.
Oct 6th
Four R C Pochards at Ladywalk, and a Great White Egret on a private site near Dunchurch.
The Egret was last reported from this site on the evening 10th.
Oct 8th
Three Knot by the valve tower Draycote, Jack Snipe, two Green Sandpipers and a Little Egret at Ladywalk.
Oct 16th
A first winter Ring Ouzel reported from around the churchyard at Napton on the Hill.
Oct 17th
The Bittern was seen again from riverwalk hide Ladywalk also three Little Egrets. And a Greenshank was on cliff pool Kingsbury.
Oct 18th
A male Stonechat was found around Seeswood Pool, four Grey Partridges at Wishaw, 130 Shoveler, 28 Teal on cliff pool Kingsbury.
Oct 19th
A Leach,s Petrel was found by (R Mays, D Cox) at Draycote around 1-45, the bird was last seen in the evening during the roost. As normal there was no sign the following day.
Oct 20th
A Snow Bunting was located along Farnborough Bank Draycote around midday, and showed very well during its five day spell, also juv Arctic Tern, Rock Pipit (very elusive) and two Peregrines
over.
Oct 21
Three R C Pochards were of Hensborough bank( 2 x Females 1 x male), also two Ravens over the country park Draycote.
Oct 22
A female Lesser Spotted Woody at Guys Cliffe.
Oct 24
Three Rock Pipits around Draycote today, also an adult winter Slavonian Grebe.
Oct 25th
Slav Grebe still Draycote.
Oct 26th
Slav Grebe still Draycote.
Oct 27th
Pintail x2 mill pool, four Little Egret and two Stonechat at Alvecote, Slav Grebe and Merlin through Draycote.
Oct 30th
Two adult Caspian Gulls and an adult Med Gull in the roost at Draycote, also present a drake Goosander and a Pintail. 115 Golden Plover around the sewage works fields Hartshill, the Bittern still around Ladywalk, also three Little Egrets , a female Pintail and a Cettis Warbler heard.
Regards Steve Seal.........................

Late News ( Whitacre Heath )

A bit of late news from Whitacre Heath on friday 1st, 2 x Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers noted in the wood. (J Wesson).

Draycote Nov 4th

Popped into Draycote briefly today to get records from the log book and had a Raven over the country park.

John

http://www.draycotebirding.co.uk/

November 4th

Brandon Marsh - Lesser-spotted Woodpecker reported from New Hare covet and Woodcock on ground near Goose Pool. Only Siskin seen by me and Dave Cox after the mist lifted.

Draycote Water - fog bound first thing so little seen apart from 20 Meadow Pipits

Grandborough Valley - plenty of Fieldfare and Redwing in hedgerows

November 4th ( Coton Roost )

Coton roost tonight their was an adult Med Gull, also 2 x Yellow Legged Gulls, also noted Redshank and 2 x Water Rail.
( J Oates ).

Welcome

Welcome to Warwickshire Birding, this blog will be updated on a regular basis and will include all news from the Warwickshire Birding scene. Please feel free to e mail me any sightings so they can be added to this blog. Hope you enjoy your visit, regards Steve Seal.