Jan 31st

Very little news today, possibly due to strong wind and heavy rain through out our region, No sign of yesterdays female Red Crested Pochard at Seeswood pool.Two Firecrest still along laundry lane Alvecote, and one Little Egret still opposite Whitacre Heath NR on small pool next to railway line.(Birdguides).
Raven flew low over Moorwood Hartshill today, (J Harris).

January 31st Draycote Water

Great Northern Diver.....Draycote Water.....Photo by Jon Hall

Lesser Scaup back in its usual place off the second car park in toft bay showing well and Coal tit amongst the Great Tits on the feeders near hide. Two male Common Scoters were out in centre but moved on when the wind surfers came out and may have gone in to toft bay. Iceland Gull first winter found in roost at 1645hrs and the Glaucous Gull first winter arrived at 1655hrs. Great-northern Diver came in close off rainbow late afternoon when earlier it had been elusive out in centre.

Richard

Jan 30th

Around 50 Brambling today at the back of the Malthouse Pub car park Dosthill, with a large mixed finch flock of around 300 birds.(B Kington , J Harris).
The two first winter drake and one female Scaup still at Lea Marston Lake, viewed from roadbridge. Two Firecrests still along laundry lane Alvecote 50mts down from car park at mid-day. At Draycote the first winter drake Lesser Scaup was again in toft bay and showing well. Two Little Egrets this evening beside the railway line at Lea Marston opposite Whitacre Hth NR, viewed from road bridge.
Three Little Egrets at Ladywalk NR today, also Marsh and Willow tits at the feeding station.(Birdguides).

Seeswood Pool 30th January

Today on the pool a (Female) Red Crested Pochard present only the 4th record with the last being on 5th January 1990

(D.Hutton,R.Dawkins)

Nearby Reports Jan 29th.

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv)
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Cannock Chase Staffs.
Great Grey Shrike

Heanor Derbys
Furruginous Duck (shipley lake)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

January 29th Draycote Water

Great Northern Diver Draycote Water........Photo by Bob Hazell

Draycote seems to have lost the Lesser Scaup after nearly two months in residence. Along with Bob Hazell we searched extensively but no trace. Bob saw it yesterday so it may have gone overnight along with the male Smew which could not be located as well. Great-northern Diver still present and distant though Bob managed to get some good shots near valve tower on his walk round. Lesser Redpoll 5, Buzzard 2 Goosander 22 and Chiffchaff were the other highlights and duck numbers seem low.
Larger gulls came into roost late but managed first winter Iceland & Glaucous Gull found between 1630-1640pm before losing the light by 1700hrs. Three adult Yellow-legged Gulls and one first winter.

Richard Mays & Bob Hazell

Jan 29th.

Cetti's Warbler singing well at Fisher's Mill pit, also Chiffchaff.At Ladywalk NR 3 x Little Egret, all flew in direction of Whitacre Heath NR,later one noticed on pool by Railway line.(J Harris).
Along laundry lane Alvecote just one Firecrest today(showing well).
The juv Glaucous Gull was around the Dosthill / Wilnecote landfill tip area again today.(Birdguides).

Nearby Reports Jan 28th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)
Slavonian Grebe
Med Gull (adult)

Blithfield Staffs.
Iceland Gull (3w)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv)
Iceland Gull (juv)

Pitsford Res Northants.
Red-throated Diver

Heanor Derbys.
Furruginous Duck (Shipley Lake)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 28th.

The 3 Scaups were at Lea Marston still this morning. They were left of
the island viewed from the road bridge. They seem to swim in and out
of view quite regularly.
Nearby at Dosthill I have finally seen the 3cy Glaucous Gull. It was
present from c12.00-12.40pm at least.(J Oates).
Lesser Scaup showing well again in toft bay Draycote Water, 2 x Little Egrets at Lea Marston by railway line opposite Whitacre Hth NR, view from railway bridge. Also today the 2 x Firecrests still along Laundry Lane Alvecote.(Birdguides).
There are 70 brambling today with a 600+ finch flock in field behind Malt House Pub, viewable from Public Footpath (T Perrins).

Nearby Reports Jan 27th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)
Scaup (drake)
Med Gull x2 (adults)

Rutland Water Leics.
Black-necked Grebe
Long-tailed Duck

Throckmorton Tip Worcs.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Cannock Chase Staffs.
Great Grey Shrike

Heanor Derbys.
Ferruginous Duck (shipley lake)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Kingsbury Jan 27th

On cliff pool Kingsbury this evening, 60 Gadwall, 120 Wigeon, 26 Teal, 45 Shoveler,37 Pochard, 23 Goldeneye, a female Pintail and 2 Oystercatchers.
(WJE).

Coton Roost Jan 27th.

Two adult Caspian Gulls in tonights roost at Coton (T Perrins, J Oates).

Draycote roost Jan 27th

Juv Glaucous Gull in the roost this evening and at least 2 ad Yellow-legged Gull's, Raven behind Inlet.

J Judge, J ,D and P Hall (The Bumbling Bears)

New Book by Brian Kington

Hobbies and Other Falcons by Brian Kington in softback priced
at £9-99 + £1 p&p.
Cheques made payable to B.L.Kington at 22 Burnham Drive Coleshill Birm B46.3NB.

Out & About Jan 27th.

Photo....Smew(drake)....Draycote Water.....(Midland Bird Images)

Photo....Fieldfare Lawford Heath .....(Midalnd Bird Images)


Photo....Goosanders Draycote Water .......(Midland Bird Images)

A visit to Draycote this morning produced the ever present Lesser Scaup in toft over in grays barn area, the drake Smew was still performing off farnborough Bank, and the elusive Great Northern Diver in the middle. Several Goosanders were displaying close to Farnborough bank. A visit to Lawford Heath to look for Corn Buntings, no sign but a large number of Fieldfares around 1500 feeding along the lane. Then over to Lea Marston lake for the 3 Scaup (2 x1w drakes & female) and on Coton lake around 700 Pochards. Opposite Whitacre Heath NR the Little Egret is still feeding along side the railway line, viewed from road bridge. Other birds seen during the morning, 2 Grey Wagtails, Great Spotted and Green Woodpeckers, and several Buzzards.
Steve......

Nearby Reports Jan 26th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

Rutland Water Liecs.
Slavonian Grebe
Black-necked Grebe

Wilnecote Tip Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2w)

Stubbers Green W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Cromford Derbys.
Hawfinch x5 (Cromford Churchyard)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 26th.

Two Firecrests are still along laundry lane Alvecote, the Little Egret again opposite Whitacre Hth NR , viewed from railway bridge and at Whitacre feeding station 4 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Willow Tit a Siskin and a Lesser Spotted Woody this morning (J Wesson).The 3 Scaups are still on Lea Marston Balancing lake (2 1w drakes and a female) viewed from road bridge. At Draycote the ever present Lesser Scaup still in toft, the drake Smew in rainbow and the Great Northern Diver still hasnt settled being seen at several locations. Two Ravens were seen over a garden in Coventry this morning (M Doughty). Also a Raven over clayhill lane Long Lawford this morning (J Judge).Barn Owl was noted south of Draycote this evening and two Y L Gulls came into the roost at Coton.(Birdguides).

Nearby Reports Jan 25th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv)
Iceland Gull(juv)
Med Gull (adult)
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (2w)

Cannock Chase Staffs.
Great Grey Shrike

Stubbers Green W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Cromford Derbys.
Hawfinch x3 (Cromford churchyard)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 25th.

All three regulars still present at Draycote this morning, Lesser Scaup and Smew toft, and the elusive Great Northern Diver breifly from rainbow corner before moving out into the middle again. Three Scaups still at Lea Marston lake, 2 first winter drakes and a female, all viewed from the roadbridge. And opposite Whitacre Heath NR upto 4 Little Egrets can now be found on the pool next to the railway line viewed from rail bridge.(Birdguides).

Glaucous Gulls Wilnecote Tip Jan 25th.

Photo......2nd winter Glaucous Gull (Midland Bird Images)

On the Warks/Staffs border juvenile and 2nd winter Glaucous Gulls are feeding on Wilnecote tip just north of Kingsbury on A51 Dosthill road. The birds can be viewed from a minor road beside the tip, please park carefully its a narrow road. This afternoon while i was there this 2nd winter bird was present. A juvenile had been seen earlier.
Steve Seal.........

Nearby Reports Jan 24th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Iceland Gull (juv)
Glaucous Gull (juv)
Great Northern Diver x2
Slavonian Grebe
Smew (drake)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Kumliens Gull (3w)
Glaucous Gull x2 (juvs)
Iceland Gull x3

Ditchford GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

January 24th Draycote Water

Great-northern Diver still elusive off biggen bay and male Smew off toft Bank. Kingfisher 2 toft bay and 5 Lesser Redpolls near hide. The roost was distant tonight but had 8 Yellow-legged Gulls, 2 Caspian Gulls adults and a first winter Iceland Gull. Med Gull adult winter seen earlier in day with a small flock of Common Gull.

Richard Mays & Bob Hazell

Jan 24th

At Dosthill Lake this morning the two (juv) Glaucous Gulls were still present,also an adult Yellow-legged Gull,(J Oates). And at Lea Marston lake the three Scaup (2 x 1w drakes) and a female can still be found when viewed from the roadbridge.A 2nd Winter Glaucous Gull at Wilnecote tip this afternoon with 2 Yellow Legs (Ad, 3rd Win).Two Yellow Legs Gulls (both Ads) in Coton roost. No sign of diver in Dosthill area,(T Perrins).The Peregrine was on St Mary's church tower Warwick ,north side at 19:15 tonight,(A Anscomb).

Glaucous Gull's

A question was asked on the Warwickshire e groups by Tom Perrins as to when was the last time 3 Glaucous Gull's have been seen together in the West Midlands.
On Feb 5th 1999 at Draycote there were 2 juv and an adult Glaucous in the roost along with an adult Iceland Gull.
The next evening the three Glaucous and the Iceland were again in the roost with 3 Mediterranean Gull's one of each age ad, 1st winter and second winter with a Great Northern Diver and Slavonian Grebe just for good measure.

John

Nearby Reports Jan 23rd.

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x1
Slavonian Grebe

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull x2 (2w & juv)
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 23rd

This morning 3 Scaups still present on Lea Marston lake , viewed from the roadbridge and a Little Egret in flight at Coton Lakes. (J Oates).Three Glaucous Gulls were present on Dosthill Lake at midday, i.e. the 2 normal juvs and the blotchy one ,(T Perrins).At Draycote Water the first winter drake Lesser Scaup still in Toft Bay (under willows at Gray's Barn). Also the mobile drake Smew and Great Northern Diver (which is becoming more confiding) off Draycote Bank .One Firecrest still along Laundry Lane Alvecote, access north from Shuttington Road Bridge. And tonight a Glaucous Gull (juv) came into the roost at Coton. Little Egret still on the opposite side of the road to Whitacre Heath NR, viewed from the railway bridge,(Birdguides).
3 Little Egret Coleshill Quarry, 2 Little Egret Ladywalk .

G N Diver Dosthill Jan 23rd

Photo by ......(John Oates).

A (juv) Great Northern Diver was found on Dosthill Lake this morning by (J Oates), it was there from 9-50 untill 11-30 at least but was not seen at lunch time. It has been re-located this afternoon on the pool just north of Dosthill Lake.This bird is almost certain to be the one reported at Lea Marston on monday, then again at cliff pool Kingsbury yesterday.
Steve.........

Nearby Reports Jan 22nd.

Westwood Pool Worcs.
American Wigeon (adult drake)

Blithfield Res Staffs.
Ring-billed Gull (2w)
Iceland Gull (adult)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull x5 (juvs)
Iceland Gull x2 (juvs)

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Iceland Gull (juv)

Pitsford Res Northants.
Smew x6

Eyebrook Res Leics.
Smew x4 (3x drakes)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Draycote Water Jan 22nd (R Mays).

Blue skies, high cloud, and a light frost was most welcome on arrival at the pond. The Lesser Scaup was with the 40+ Pochard and Tufted Duck flock in grays barn while 3 Lesser Redpolls fed quietly behind the hide. Male Smew again off valve tower and the Great-northern Diver continued to be elusive being distant off valve tower, close in off rainbow or not seen at all by some unfortunates. Depending on where you were standing on toft bank a Stonechat could be seen in the sewage farm and a Chiffchaff along the perimeter hedge. Peregrine performed over cafe and I was joined by Bob Hazell and Pete and Linda Price where we chewed the cud over such delights as gull id, field craft, lists and the price of peas. Roost tonight decided to be distant and strung out over the centre of reservoir but managed five Med Gulls (two first winter, two adult winter and a second winter), three adult Yellow-legged Gulls and a Glaucous Gull first winter came in at 1640pm.
Other birds of note were Kingfisher, Green Woodpecker 2, Great-spotted Woodpecker 2, Goosander 10, Goldeneye 25, Cormorant 82, Great-crested Grebe 206 Grey Wagtail and a Buzzard.(R Mays).

Information American Wigeon Worcs.

An adult drake American Wigeon present on Westwood Pool Worcs (permit only). I have information from S Whitehouse, if the bird is present on subsequent days people will be taken round for a fee of £2.(money will go to the hide restoration fund).
More info on Birdguides tomorrow.
S Seal.

Jan 22nd

Glaucous Gull...(Wilnecote Tip)..Photo by Mark Priest.

Two Glaucous Gulls (juv)) again today on Wilnecote Tip , of A51 between Kingsbury and Dosthill.The tip is actually in Staffs, though the site is viewed from Warks.
Highlights at Draycote Water this morning were 1st w drake Lesser Scaup in Toft Bay, drake Smew close to the Valve Tower and adult Great Northern Diver in Rainbow Corner.
The diver can be aged as an adult by white spotted upperwing coverts. These can be hard to see when it is swimming about, but they are quite obvious when it flaps - as long as it is facing away! Perhaps a returning bird? (J Oates).
No sign today of yesterdays (reported) Great Northern Diver at Lea Marston (BLK).
A Great Northern Diver was found on Cliff Pool Kingsbury today, but then seen to fly off south at 12-30, (H Miller).

National News Jan21st

White-crowned Sparrow, Cley-next the sea Norfolk.
Adult still on the seeded driveway 50m northwest of Three Swallows pub at TG047431 this afternoon; please park sensibly and donate generously to Cley church restoration fund. All birders are thanked for their generosity in donating £3,000 so far.
News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/

Steve Seal........

Nearby Reports Jan 21st

Chasewater Staffs.
Iceland Gull (2w)
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Kumliens Gull (probable 2w)
Glaucous Gull (3x juvs)
Iceland Gull (juv)

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Glaucous Gulls Wilnecote Tip Jan 21st

Glaucous Gull (Wilnecote Tip) ...Photo by Mark Priest.

Two Glaucous Gulls both (juvs)were at Wilnecote tip south west of Polesworth this morning.(J Oates).From A51 between Kingsbury and Dosthill take the minor road past the tip to view fields and tip from the car. Park Sensibly.

Nearby Reports Jan 20th.

Rutland Water Leics.
Black-necked Grebe
Long-tailed Duck

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull(juv)

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)

Marsh Lane W.Mids
Common(Mealy)Redpoll

Throckmorton Tip Worcs.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver
Pink-footed Goose x60

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 20th

Photo...Lesser Redpoll Marsh Lane (Midland Bird Images).

54 days now for the first winter darke Lesser Scaup at Draycote, also the drake Smew still at valve tower, Great Northern Diver and 23 Goosanders.Along Laundry Lane Alvecote the 2 x Firecrests are still showing on and off,and at Lea Marston a first winter drake Scaup can still be found viewed from roadbridge. At midday a Little Egret was on flooded water next to the railway line at Lea Marston. No sign today of the Common(Mealy)Redpoll at nearby Marsh Lane but a female Lesser Spotted Woody along the old road also Tree Sparrows , Lesser Redpoll and Brambling and on the reserve 3 drakes and a female Pintail on railway pool. And a (juv) Glaucous Gull in the roost at Coton this evening.(Birdguides).

Nearby Reports Jan19th.

Ogston Res Derbys.
Kumliens Gull (2w)
Iceland Gull (2w)
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver
Smew (drake)
Iceland Gull (juv)
Med Gull (juv)

Attenborough NR Notts.
Red-necked Grebe

Rutland Water Leics.
Long-tailed Duck
Black-necked Grebe
Slavonian Grebe

Eyebrook Res Leics.
Smew x4 (3 x drakes)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 19th

After an unsuccessful visit to Drayton Basset (Staffs) this morning, I relocated the Juvenile Glaucous Gull in the Wilnecote tip area (Warks). It was with large number of other gulls in fields by the tip. From the A51 between Kingsbury and Dosthill, take minor road past tip and view fields and tip edge from car. Viewing from outside the car will cause the gulls to flush (Don't ask how I know!).(T Perrins).
Upto 800 Golden Plovers in arable field next to Wellesbourne Airfield this morning (J Harris). Little Egret on Whitacre Heath NR this afternoon, (J Wesson).At nearby Marsh Lane the Mealy Redpoll was seen early morning, also a nordic Jackdaw in flooded field just past second gate(L Johnson), also 20+ Lesser Redpolls, Brambling and two Stonechat . The first winter drake Lesser Scaup still present at Draycote Water, also drake Smew at valve tower and Great Northern Diver at rainbow. Along Laundry Lane Alvecote the two Firecrests are still performing.(Birdguides). Three Scaup still at Lea Marston lake today viewed from roadbridge,(2x 1w drakes & female).
In the Grandborough Valley area today, 3 x Brambling, 2 x Corn Buntings a Barn Owl, Stonechat, Raven ,and a Little Egret over the river Leam at Kites Hardwick. And the Cettis still at Napton Res.(R Mays).

Nearby Reports Jan 18th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2
Iceland Gull (juv)
Med Gull (adult)

Drayton Bassett Pits Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (1w)

Grimley New Workings Worcs.
Water Pipit

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 18th

At Lea Marston this morning the 3 Scaups were present,(two 1w drakes & female) viewed from the roadbridge. It seems that many of the ducks left the area recently, presumably due to high water levels (J Oates).
The first winter drake Lesser Scaup was found sheltering under willows in Gray's Barn (Toft Bay)Draycote Water, also drake Smew and Great Northern Diver off Draycote Bank (Birdguides).
Ladywalk Reserve has suffered heavy flooding but water down now, today Little Egret, 22 Goosander and also the injured male Goosander on the River island,(J Harris).
Nearby at Marsh Lane the Common(Mealy)Redpoll was still performing with four Lesser Redpolls just past the second gate, also noted 40+ Yellowhammers, and a female Brambling.(S Seal).
Glaucous Gull (juv) in roost at Coton (P Hyde). Two adult winter Med Gulls and an adult Caspian in pre roost at Draycote, (R Mays, D Cox).

Nearby Reports Jan 17th

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)
Med Gull (adult)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (1w)

Drayton Bassett Pits Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 17th

Photo (Midland Bird Images).
At Dosthill Lake this afternoon a (juv) Glaucous Gull was noted.(Birdguides).At nearby Marsh Lane the Common(Mealy)Redpoll is still present along the old road feeding with Lessers,its a very interesting bird well worth a visit.

Nearby Reports Jan 16th.

Attenborough NR Notts.
Bittern x2

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull x2 (juvs)

Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Iceland Gull (juv)
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Clifford Hill GPs Northants.
Great Northern Diver

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Common(Mealy)Redpoll

Rutland Water Leics.
Slavonian Grebe


News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 16th

At Draycote the first winter drake Lesser Scaup was around grays barn area of toft, also the drake Smew at the valve tower and the Great Northern Diver in the centre of the reservoir,and a Raven over.(B Hazell).
The tides still in at Brandon with only one hide accessible,noted 14 Siskin, 3 Water Rail, 2 Redpoll, 3 Cettis and 4 Goldeneye.(A Johnson).

Nearby Reports Jan 15th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Divers x2
Smew (drake)
Iceland Gull (2w)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull x2 (2w-juv)
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Hoveringham GPs Notts.
Iceland Gull (juv)

Attenborough NR Notts.
Bittern x2

Clifford Hill GPs Northants.
Great Northern Diver

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/
Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 15th

Photo (Midland Bird Images).
Two Ravens seen flying south east over Hartshill Hayes CP(J Harris).
At Draycote the first winter drake Lesser Scaup still in toft, now on its 49th day. Also the drake Smew off farnborough bank, and the Great Northern Diver keeping its distance off the valve tower. In Biggin Bay a female Pintail and Oystercatcher,no sign of the Red-necked Grebe.(R Mays).
The two Firecrests were seen again along Laundry Lane Alvecote.(Birdguides).
At nearby Marsh Lane the Common(Mealy)Redpoll is still along the old road just down from the main entrance with two Lessers.(M Silverman).
Tonight in Warwick the Peregrine roosted again on St Marys Church.(S Valentine).
At Draycote this evening a Little Egret flew from direction of the valve tower and landed in Biggin Bay approx 4pm. Stayed for 10 minutes and then flew towards Toft.( F Thompson).

Red-necked and Slav Grebes.

Photo (Midland Bird Images).
Scarce winter visitors and passage migrants.
The Slavonian Grebe is a winter visitor to our sheltered coasts from northern and eastern Europe, it is the most maritime of our grebes with some visiting our region most years.
The Red-necked Grebe is also a winter visitor to Britian from eastern Europe, most remain in estuaries along the east and south coasts, but some penetrate inland and a few reach our larger reservoirs.Occurrences are most frequent when continental waters freeze over. Both these species have visited Draycote Water over the past week, with birds also in neighbouring counties of Staffordshire and Leicestershire.
Steve Seal.

Nearby Reports Jan 14th

Chasewater Staffs.
Red-necked Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2

Attenborough GPs Notts.
Red-necked Grebe

Clifford Hill GPs Northants.
Great Northern Diver

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/

Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 14th

The only news today, the Peregrine roosted again on St Marys Church Warwick.(S Valentine).

Nearby Reports Jan 13th.

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2
Slavonian Grebe
Smew (drake)

Rutland Water Leics.
Slavonian Grebe
Black-necked Grebe
Long-tailed Duck

Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver

Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/

Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 13th

Smew (drake) Draycote Water Photo (Midland Bird Images).

Two Firecrests still along Laundry Lane; access north from Shuttington Road Bridge.(Birdguides).
At Draycote the first winter drake Lesser Scaup still showing well in toft, and the drake Smew still of farnborough bank though mobile.Also the Great Northern Diver was showing well in rainbow corner midday, but no sign of the Red-necked Grebe. (G Rowling).

Nearby Reports Jan 12th

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)
Iceland Gull (3w)
Med Gull x2 (adults)

Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll

Bartley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (2w)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (2w)
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Boddington Res Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver

Clifford Hill GPs Northants.
Great Northern Diver

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/

Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 12th.

At Alvecote Pools today 2 x Firecrests & male Lesser Spotted Woody along Laundry Lane/Knob Lane. Most of the access roads were flooded, even a stretch Laundry Lane was unpassable this afternoon. Also 4 Shelduck, Chiffchaff, Willow Tits & 2 Lesser Redpoll knocking around.(A Archer).
A disappointing day in the flooded tame valley, the highlight being the Coton roost where 4+ Y L Gulls, (3+ads, 3rd Win) roosted.(T Perrins).

Janaury 12th 2008 Draycote Water

Photo (Midland Bird Images).
Red-necked Grebe located off outlet (S Seal) and showed well off farnborough or toft bank.
Lesser Scaup under willows of grays barn till mid-morning when it went back to its normal haunt off 2nd car park toft bay.
Smew male off valve tower
Great-northern Diver off draycote bank (P & L Price) was elusive. By dusk it was preening and feeding out in centre.
Redshank one flew down the flooded River Leam from hensborough bank.
Glaucous Gull first winter (Bob Hazell) briefly mid-morning appeared in roost(R Mays)
Yellow-legged Gull 10 adults & 4 first winters in roost
Caspian Gull 2 adults in roost
Iceland Gull adult in roost (R Mays)
also Buzzard 3, Kingfisher 2 Lesser Redpoll in biggen bay and 70+ Siskin in toft shallows

R Mays, S Seal ect all

Nearby Reports Jan11th

Blithfield Res Staffs.
Red-throated Diver

Stanwick GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (juv)
Glaucous Gull (juv)
Smew (drake)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv)
Glaucous Gull x2 (juvs)

West Hagley Worcs.
Firecrest

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/

Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

January 11th 2008

Photo by (Bob Duckhouse)
Red-necked Grebe still at Draycote Water 200 yards off the cafe along farnborough bank this afternoon.

Richard

Nearby Reports Jan 10th

Bartley Res W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (2w)

Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull x2 (juvs)
Iceland Gull (juv)

Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

News taken from Birdguides @
http://www.birdguides.com/

Phone reports to 0800 0431003
or email to sightings@birdguides.com

Steve Seal

Jan 10th

3x Scaups still at Lea Marston viewed from the roadbridge this morning. The female was very close again.(J Oates).
12 x Goosanders roosted at Shustoke this evening.(BLK).
Peregrine last night again on St. Mary's church tower Warwick at 19:45, but no sign tonight at 18:50.(S Valentine.)

January 10th 2008

Draycote Water
Red-necked Grebe at 8am was some 400 yards off the sailing club it reappeared in front of cafe by the platforms at 1010am and in toft bay 1230am.
Slavonian Grebe off farnborough spit
Smew and first winter Lesser Scaup sheltering under the willows in grays barn.
Red-breasted Merganser female between valve tower and biggen bay.
Great-spotted Woodpecker 2, Siskin 10 toft shallows, Lesser Redpoll 2 biggen bay, Sparrowhawk, and a Buzzzard.

Richard

Bird News Extra Jan 9th

Nearby Reports.
Carsington Water Derbys.
Great Northern Diver

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv)
Iceland Gull (juv)

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver
Smew (drake)

Thrapston GPs Northants.
Tundra Bean Goose
Black-necked Grebe
Bittern

Rutland Water Leics.
Long-tailed Duck
Slavonian Grebe

Marsh Lane W.Mids
Common (Mealy) Redpoll

Upton Warren Worcs.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll
Bittern


Regards Steve.........

Little Egret

A Little Egret again on my uncles pond in Long Lawford today (there was one in 2002 and 2006 same?) Best viewed from Clayhill Lane off Chapel Street along the stream to the left and right.

John Judge

Jan 9th

Red-necked Grebe today off hensborough bank Draycote Water, also still present the first winter darke Lesser Scaup and the drake Smew.(K Warmington).Firecrest again today along Laundry Lane Alvecote.(Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Jan 8th

Nearby Reports.
Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Divers x2
Slavonian Grebe
Smew (drake)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (2w)
Glaucous Gull (1w)

Ditchford GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Rutland Water Leics.
Black-necked Grebe
Slavonian Grebe
Long-tailed Duck

Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll

Regards Steve.........

Jan 8th.

At Lea Marston Balancing Lakes 3 Scaups - 2 1st w drakes and a female. The female was just about the closest bird to the bridge. The 2 males were to the left of the big island. The regular drake is now looking more or less adult. The new drake is still very much immature, with a bit of pale around the face and only a few bits of grey in the mantle. This is the third drake I've seen in the area in the last couple of weeks. I think I've also seen 4 different females.Also a Little Egret on Coton lake.(J Oates).
At Draycote the first winter drake Lesser Scaup now on its 42day still present in toft, but the drake Smew was a little more mobile today, Farnborough bank, Toft then Draycote bank.Also around 30 Siskins in toft sallows. (R Mays).
And the Firecrest still along Laundry Lane Alvecote , access north from Shuttington Road Bridge .(Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Jan 7th

Nearby Reports.
Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Divers x2 (juvs)
Med Gull x2 (adults)

Ditchford GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (1w)
Glaucous Gull (1w)

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (2w)
Glaucous Gull (1w)
Med Gull (adult)

Marsh Lane W.Mids
Common (Mealy) Redpoll

Rutland Water Leics.
Black-necked Grebe
Slavonian Grebe
Long-tailed Duck
Great Northern Diver

West Hagley Worcs.
Firecrest x3

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

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

Jan 7th

No news from Warwickshire today, Perhaps everybody has gone to Norfolk to look at the Sparrow.

Bird News Extra Jan 6th

Nearby Reports.
Rutland Water Leics.
Glaucous Gull (juv)
Black-necked Grebe
Slavonian Grebe
Long-tailed Duck

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv)

Cossington Meadows Leics.
Great White Egret

Blithfield Res Staffs.
Black Redstart
Red-throated Diver

Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Diver x2
Smew (drake)

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

Jan 6th

Two Long-eared Owls, a Barn Owl and a Stonechat at a location south of Draycote this morning. At Draycote a large number of G B B Gulls were still loafing around with 386 noted, the first winter drake Lesser Scaup was showing well still in toft and the drake Smew still of farnborough bank. In toft sallow a flock of around 60+ Siskins were present.At Whitacre Heath NR this morning Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Stonechat.In the roost at Coton Lakes 2nd w Caspian Gull & 3+ ad Yellow-legged Gulls. Also there fem Scaup & Goosander,and at Lea Marston the pair of Scaups still present, viewed from the road bridge.Peregrine (adult) on St. Mary's church tower in Warwick town centre at 12:30 today but no sign this evening. Firecrest showing in brambles 40m on the left hand side up Laundry Lane Alvecote this morning. And a Barn Owl at Brandon early evening. (R Mays, J Oates, S Valentine).

Bird News Extra Jan 5th

Nearby Reports.
Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe
Great Northern Divers x2
Smew (drake)

Stanwick GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (juv)

Marsh Lane W.Mids
Common (Mealy) Redpoll

Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (2x juvs)
Iceland Gull (juv)

Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver

Throckmorton Tip Worcs.
Glaucous Gull (juv)

Upton Warren Worcs.
Bittern

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

Jan 5th

2 Scaups (1st w male & female)at Lea Marston viewed from the road bridge this morning.(J Oates).
1st-winter drake Lesser Scaup at Draycote still in Toft Bay. Park only in country park pay and display car park and walk right for 3/4 mile .Firecrest still just north of Alvecote along Laundry Lane. Access north from Shuttington Road Bridge (Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Jan 4th

Nearby Reports.
Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver (juv).
Black Redstart.

Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll.

Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv).
Glaucous Gull (2 x juvs).
Med Gull (adult).
Little Gull (adult).

Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Divers x2.
Slavonian Grebe (adult).
Smew (drake).
Glaucous Gull x2 (juv / 2w).

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

Jan 4th

Siskins North Warwickshire
Now larger groups of siskin in North Warks,large group of 150 along Bourne Brook Shustoke (BLK) ,Today 4/1/08 80 blakemore's pond area Hartshill Hayes CP (J Harris).
The first-winter drake Lesser Scaup still in Toft Bay Draycote this afternoon; also Long-tailed Duck off Lincroft Point and drake Smew at Draycote Bank (Birdguides).
Near adult Caspian Gull in roost at Coton Lakes plus an adult Yellow-legged Gull this evening (Birdguides).

Bird News Extra Jan 3rd

Nearby Reports.
Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe (adult).
Great Northern Divers x2.
Smew (drake).
Glaucous Gull (juv).
Iceland Gull (juv).
Med Gulls x2.

Eyebrook Res Leics.
Smew x7 (6 x drakes).

Belvide Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv).

Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Common (mealy) Redpoll.

Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart.

January 3rd 2008 Draycote Water

Strong cold north easterly wind.
Lesser Scaup first winter male in toft, Male Smew off farnborough bank, White-fronted Geese 2 and a Jack Snipe in the Field behind farnborough spit.
A long-tailed Duck reported earlier still present mid afternoon though distant from farnborough spit and the roost held at least 3 adult and 2 first winters Yellow-legged Gulls and one adult Caspian Gull in roost. Finally a Fulmar was found off biggen bay 1545pm - not sure if it was overlooked earlier or had come into roost.
Also Shelduck female in biggen bay, 2 Buzzards, Raven and a few Lesser Redpolls and Siskin. Another Raven and a Rock Pipit seen by John Sirrett.

Richard

Bird News Extra Jan 2nd

Nearby Reports.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Great Wyrley Tip Staffs.
Bewick Swans x7 Pitsford Res Northants.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Whooper Swans x7 Rutland Water Leics.
Black-necked Grebe Thrapston GPs Northants.
Iceland Gull (2w) Ogston Res Derbys.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Slavonian Grebe Chasewater Staffs.
Great Northern Diver x2 Chasewater Staffs.
Regards Steve........

Jan 2nd

No sign of the Firecrest today along Laungry Lane but female Brambling. The first winter drake Lesser Scaup is now on its 36th day and still showing well in toft bay at Draycote Water, but no sign of drake Smew.

Bird News Extra Jan 1st

Nearby Reports.
www.birdguides.com
Smew x6 (5 x drakes) Pitsford Res Northants.
Smew 8 (6 x drakes) Eyebrook Res Leics.
Glaucous Gull (2 x juvs) Ditchford GPs Northants.
Glaucous Gull (2 x juvs) Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull x2 ( 2w, juv) Ogston Res Derbys.
Iceland Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Chasewater Staffs.
Slavonian Grebe Blithfield Staffs.
Red-throated Diver Blithfield Staffs.
Black Redstart Blithfield Staffs.
Glaucous Gull (2x juvs) Throckmorton Tip Worcs.
Common (Mealy) Redpoll Marsh Lane W.Mids.
Glaucous Gull (juv) Belvide Staffs.
Regards Steve.........

Jan 1st 2008

Two Firecrests at the top of Laundry Lane Alvecote near the fishermen's car park this morning; access north from Shuttington Road Bridge (T Perrins). Two Firecrests seen breifly in a private garden in Guys Cliffe Warwick,and the 1st-winter drake Scaup still on Lea Marston balancing lakes viewed from the roadbridge this afternoon .(Birdguides).A Peregrine tonight on St Marys church tower Warwick (S Valentine).Cettis Warbler early afternoon at Ladywalk also 8 Goosanders, permit only.(Birdguides).

January 1st 2008 Draycote and surrounding area

Many birders out this morning and twenty of us gathered for breakfast at Draycote before spreading out. A foggy morning and slow to clear. Overview of what they found

Napton area
Two Barn Owl and two Woodcock in flight

Draycote
Lesser Scaup first winter male still in toft bay and the male Smew off farnborough bank. At least 20 male & 13 female Goosander, several Siskin over and a Chiffchaff heard in toft shallows. Possible Merlin reported flying along the north shore.

Lawford Heath
Tree Sparrow amongst a flock of 100+ Chaffinch and still many Fieldfare

Kings Newman
Grey Partridge 15 also 3 Buzzards in area

Cathiron
Marsh Tit 2, Coal Tit 3 and Nuthatch at the feeder station.

Long Lawford
Peregrine over


Richard etc all