The Derbyshire Ornithological Society

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• WILLLINGTON GRAVEL PITS Eclipse drake Wigeon still present on 18th June along with 2 Shoveler and a Cuckoo; 2 Green Sandpipers on 23/29th June with 4 Buzzards and a Hobby on 23rd June; a drake Common Scoter on 27th June with a drake Garganey on 28/29th although elusive on the latter date. Also on 28th June a claim of a Great White Egret flying West mid morning, 20 Black Tailed Godwits flew through and a Little Egret present. On 29th June 8 Teal, 1 Pochard-drake and 2 Shoveler along with a Hobby. Also a Greenshank flew through.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE 6 Black Tailed Godwits on 28th June with a Little Egret on 29th June.
• CARVERS ROCKS A Turtle Dove showing well perched on the wires over the inlet on 27/28th June.
• OGSTON RESEVOIR One/Two Crossbills flew over between 6.57-8.06 a.m.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A Hobby flew East on 25th June with a female Common Scoter on 29th June.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVER PITS A Hobby on 20th June.

• POOLSBRROK MARSH An imm. male Golden Oriole was briefly seen and heard, first mid afternoon and then again mid evening on 16 June. The bird was in willows viewed from by the railway line. This will be the 22nd record of this rare species for the county.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Ringed Plover in the morning and a Sanderling in the evening on the Canal Scrape on 17th June. On 18 June 10 Great Crested Grebes, 14 Cormorants, 48 Mute Swans, 1 Wigeon-eclipse drake, 5 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 15 Tufted Duck, 1 Kestrel, 5 Oystercatchers, 9 Common Terns, a Cuckoo and a Green Woodpecker.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR A Yellow Legged Gull on 18th June
• ETWALL A Red Kite flew across the A516 towards Hilton at 1.10.p.m. on 18th June.

• QUAILS Still 1 male calling Elton Common on June 13th with it, or another, briefly seen flying across the area. Another male calling from crop fields between Priestcliffe Lees and Litton Mill audible from the SE corner of Priestcliffe Mills NR on June 12th. Another male calling at Litton in rough pasture which is South on Tansley Dale on June 13th.
• RED KITES This species seems to be everywhere at the moment with at least 5 in the county on June 14th. They were at Sawley flying over Draycott Road towards Ratcliffe on Soar Power Station (Notts), Elvaston Castle Country Park over the cricket pitch at 10. 50.a.m., flying South over Great Cubley at 09.30.a.m. with one flying East over Ogston Res at 09.15.a.m. and another flying NW at 11.15.a.m.
• TAXAL An Osprey flew South towards Fernilee Res at 09.30.a.m. on June 13th.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A cream crown Marsh Harrier flew NE at 09.55. a.m. on June 11th.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR A Yellow Legged Gull on June 5th.
• M1 MOTORWAY, NEAR SAWLEY A Turtle Dove flew across the M1 near the R.Trent Bridge on June 8th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS 15 Great Crested Grebes included 2 young, 5 Cormorants, 80 Mute Swans, 16 Gadwall, 15 Tufted Duck, 1 Buzzard, 1 Oystercatcher, 5 Ringed Plover, 5 Common Terns plus the usual range of Warblers etc on June 9th.
• LOCKO PARK 2 Great Crested Grebes—1 young, 50 Grey Lag Geese, 4 Tufted Duck, 4 Buzzards and a Hobby flying North on June 10th
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 7 Little Grebes, 17 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 65 Grey Lag Geese—21 young, 2 Gadwall, 7 Tufted Duck,2 Buzzards, 1 Kestrel and 6 Common Terns on June 11th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 8 Great Crested Grebes, 22 Cormorants, 3 Grey Herons, 30 Mute Swans, 12 Shelduck included 10 young, 16 Gadwall, 1 Teal, 10 Tufted Duck, 3 Buzzard, 2 Oystercatcher 2 Redshank and 2 Common Terns on June 13th

• RED KITES 2 were over Longcliffe on June 3rd with another over Eggington Common. One over Radbourne on June 5th. One was at Reaps Farm just NE of Glossop on June 6th
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Black Tailed Godwit on June 2nd, a Little Egret on June 3rd, 11 Ringed Plover and a Green Sandpiper on June 6th with 2 Ringed Plover and a Short Eared Owl on June 7th.
• R.DERWENT, RAYNESWAY A pager report of 2 Little Gulls on the pools near the new bridge into Acordis on June 3rd.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 4 Little Grebes, 21 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 8 Grey Herons, 1 Egyptian Goose, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Oystercatcher, 3 Common Terns and 4 Reed Warblers on June 4th.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 6 Great Crested Grebes and a Gadwall on June 4th.
• BARROW GRAVEL PITS A Little Egret, a female Goosander and 2 Egyptian Geese on June 6th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 5 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 25 Mute Swans, 14 Shelduck including a brood of 10 young, 11 Gadwall, 3 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 3 Tufted Duck, 8 Ringed Plover, 5 Redshank, 1 Common Tern, c100 Swifts, c50 House Martins and 4 Mistle Thrush all on June 6th
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A male Red Backed Shrike seen from the mound from 7.35-7.45 a.m. on June 7th before flying off East. This is the first county record since 2005 and the 11th society record.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR An Osprey between 7.25-8.25 a.m. on June 7th before it flew off NW.
• AMBASTON VILLAGE A cream crown Marsh Harrier flew East at 8.35 a.m. on June 7th.
• ELTON COMMON 2 Quail singing here just north of the minor road to Winster-just east of the A5012 junction-at 2.25p.m. on June 8th
• Yet another near miss when a Buff Breasted Sandpiper was found at Attenborough Nature Reserve on Tween Pond between 4.15-8.30.p.m. on June 4th. So near and yet so far.

• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Fulmar was seen flying round the reservoir at 10.15 a.m. on May 31st but flew off North West at 10.20.a.m. A most unusual record in the weather conditions on that day. An Osprey again present on may 27th with a Grey Plover flying North at 6.15.a.m. on May 30th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS The rather scruffy looking male Ruddy Shelduck still present on May 31st on the Canal Pit although it does move around this site quite a lot. A summer plumage Little Stint on the Canal Pit on May 30th with 2 “Tundrae” race Ringed Plovers. A drake Wigeon on May 27/31st from Platform 3. and 11 Grey Lag Geese flew East on May 30th.
• UPPER LAGWIRTH A report of a possible Bee Eater flying West at 8.30.a.m. on May 28th.
• HOPE STATION A probable White Tailed Eagle was seen flying North mid morning towards Derwentdale/Snake Pass area on May 29th by an ex-falconer.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A Honey Buzzard flew North East at 7.15.a.m. on May 30th. On May 26th 3 Gadwall, 2 Egyptian Geese and 8 Common Terns.
• WILLIAMTHORPE NATURE RESERVE A Black Tern on May 30th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 2 Black Terns present most of the afternoon/early evening viewable from the A50 gate. Also present 29 Shelduck including a brood of 10 young, 1 Shoveler and 6 Common Terns.
• CARSINGTON WATER A Red Kite flew North East between 11.20-11.25 a.m. on May 31st with an Ar4ctic Tern flying North East at 11.30.a.m. Also 2 Ringed Plovers briefly and 2 Gadwall.
• BRADLEY DAM Still 3 drake Mandarins on May 31st along with a Grey Wagtail.
• RAMSLEY RESERVOIR A Ring Necked Parakeet flew across the moors on June 1st.

• OGSTON RESERVOIR 2 Black Necked Grebes found early morning on May 24th continues the good run this spring of this species. Also on May 24th a Red Kite flew SSW between 12.10-12.16.p.m.. On May 25th an Osprey at 10.40.a.m.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS The pair of Garganey still present on the Canal Pit on May 24th. Also a drake Wigeon here on May 22/23rd.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR A Red Kite over Carvers Rocks at 8.05 a.m. on May 24th. Also 2 Turtle Doves at Carvers Rocks on the same date.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 5 Great Crested Grebes, 34 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 52 Mute Swans, 19 Shelduck which included a brood of 12 small young, 11 Gadwall, 29 Tufted Duck, 2 Oystercatchers, 3 Redshank and 4 Stock Doves on May 23rd.
• CARSINGTON WATER 6 Little Grebes, 29 Great Crested Grebes, 7 Cormorants, 17 Barnacle Geese, 71 Tufted Duck, 3 Buzzard, 7 Oystercatchers included a pair with 3 young, 2 Redshank and 2 juvenile Ravens all on May 24th.
• Close to the county boundary a Nightingale is singing at Branston Water Park, Staffs along the Trent/Mersey Canal just north of Tatenhill Lock. This bird was found on May 24th and was still present on May 25th.

• STANAGE EDGE Still 2 Dotterel on May 16th
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Red Kite flew East on May 16th with a Honey Buzzard flying NW at 11.24.a.m. A Turnstone and 5 Whimbrel also present. a Greenshank on May 16-18th.A Barnacle Goose present for 45 minutes early morning on May 17th
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS A Honey Buzzard flew East at 12. 40.p.m. on May 16th but unfortunately stayed just over the R.Trent in Leicestershire airspace. Also present were 5 Great Crested Grebes, 16 Cormorants, 4 Grey Herons, 21 Mute Swans, 2 Egyptian Geese, 10 Shelduck, 7 Gadwall, 1 Shoveler-drake, 2 Pochard, 35 Tufted Duck, 2 Ringed Plover, 4 Redshank, 1 Turnstone and 2 Turtle Dove flew through.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS The Wood Sandpiper, a Sanderling and 2 Whimbrel on May 16th. On May 17th a Little Tern was found by 2 Staffordshire birders on “dead goose” Island at 11.15.a.m. and it-or another-again present from 7.45-8.40.p.m. before it left to the East. A Sanderling again present on May 17th. On May 18th a Kittiwake was on the water early morning and on May 19th 7 Great Crested Grebes, 13 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Gadwall, 29 Tufted Duck, 1 Kestrel, 3 Oystercatchers, 3 Dunlin, 4 Redshanks, 16 Common Terns, c75 Swifts and c5 House Martins present.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 3 Little Terns flew East at 8.25 p.m. on May 16th and a Hobby present. On May 17th a pair of Garganey were in the new workings.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A “cream crown” Marsh Harrier flew South at 11.45 a.m. on May 16th followed by an Osprey flying South at 4.10.p.m.
• GLAPWELL A Red Kite quartering fields by the side of the A617 at 3.15.p.m.
• WILLIAMTHORPE A Quail singing on May 17th.
• FOREMARK RESEVOIR A Kittiwake on the water at 9.30.a.m. on May 19th.

• STANAGE EDGE At least 3 Dotterel still present and showing well on May 15th
• PLEASLEY PIT COUNTRY PARK The 2 Temminck’s Stints still present on May 15th.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE 12 Whimbrel flew N at 9.35 a.m. on May 15th.
• WILLIAMTHORPE NATURE RESERVE 2 Black Terns on May 14th
• OGSTON RESERVOIR 3 Black Terns and 9 Arctic Terns on May 14th. On May 15th 15 Greenshanks-1 down and a flock of 14 flew through, 2 Turnstones, 1 Sanderling, 3 Whimbrel and 2 Black Terns.
• CARSINGTON WATER 8 Turnstones, a Sanderling and 10 Arctic Terns on May 15th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS 1 Egyptian Goose, 2 Shoveler, 1 Buzzard, 4 Oystercatchers, 66 Ringed Plovers, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Sanderling, 61 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 1 Wood Sandpiper, 4 Turnstones, 2 Arctic Terns, c50 Swifts, c250 Swallows and c20 House Martins all on May 15th. The Wood Sandpiper and an Arctic Tern still present on May 16th along with 2 Hobbies.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 1 Knot, 1 Sanderling, 16 Ringed Plover, 9 Dunlin and a Black Tern on May 14th with c150 Swallows and c50 Sand Martins from the A50 gate on May 15th.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A Black Tern on May 14/15th with a Little Tern briefly on May 15th.

• A combination of fairly strong NE winds and precipitation at times during May 13/14th has produced on of the best periods on record for passage birds in the county and has kept the two year listers going from one end of the county to the other. It has been possible to see at least 19 species of waders within the county over the last two days plus 3 species of Terns as well.
• STANAGE EDGE 6 Dotterel were found late evening on May 12th at High Neb and showed well amongst the heather on May 13/14th.
• PLEASLEY COLLIERY COUNTRY PARK 2 Stints were found by Loz Brooks late morning on May 13th in very poor conditions and were finally identified as Temminck’s Stint’s when better weather arrived giving much better views early afternoon. They showed well all day and were still present on May 14th. This is the first record of this species for Pleasley Park Nature Study Group although 1 was here on May 19th, 1999 before the group was formed. A Sanderling was here briefly on May 13th before flying off East with a Dunlin and a Common Sandpiper on May 14th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Black Tern was found here early morning on May 13th with 2 at 10.30.a.m. By 1.00p.m. the number had grown to 10 and they remained all afternoon. A dark billed Tern found here late afternoon started pulses racing but proved to be only a Common Tern. Waders here all on the Canal Pit were 6 Ringed Plover, 2 Sanderling, 1 Knot late afternoon which had gone by 6.00.p.m., 4/5 Dunlin with different birds involved, a Black Tailed Godwit which was joined by 3 more mid-afternoon and a Wood Sandpiper which could be elusive. On May 14th Richard James had 2 Common Cranes flying through NE at 4.20.p.m. over the Canal Pit and waders included a final total of 41 Ringed Plovers, 22 Dunlin, probably up to 5 Sanderling through the day, 4 Black Tailed Godwits and the Wood Sandpiper. Finally a female Blue Headed Wagtail was on the Canal Pit early afternoon and up to 3 Egyptian Geese were also seen.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS At 12.45 p.m. on May 13th 3 Ringed Plover, 2 Sanderling, 3 Dunlin and 2 Turnstone could be seen from the A50 gate. Early evening only 2 Ringed Plover still present with a partial summer plumage Knot, 4 Sanderling, 6 Dunlin, 3 Redshank, 1 Greenshank and the 2 Turnstone still here. 2 Black Terns flew NE over the A50 at 7.50.p.m Also 22 Shelduck were here.. On May 14th a Sanderling and a Black Tern were here. Finally the 2 Common Cranes flew East at 4.50.p.m. and were later seen flying East over Attenborough Nature Reserve, Notts at about 5.15.p.m.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 3 Black Terns on May 13th.
• CARSINGTON WATER A Black Tern, a Sanderling and a Turnstone on May 13th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Turnstone and 4 Sanderling on May 13th
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR 2 Sanderling flew through on May 13th and a Turtle Dove was once again at the Carvers Rocks end on May 14th.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE An Osprey flew through mid-morning on May 13th. On May 14th 3 Black Terns flew North at 9.25 a.m. with another flying North at 11.43 a.m. Also 7 Arctic Terns flew NE at 10.10.a.m.

• CURBAR A Rose Coloured Starling, probably a first year bird, briefly visited a feeding station in a private garden at Curbar on May 3rd. The owners managed to take one good photo of the bird and contacted the RSPB who identified the bird and suggested to them that may wish to contact the DOS which they have done. There has been no sign of the bird since. This will be the fourth Society record of this species and the first since 2 in 2002 when the last big influx occurred.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR An adult Kittiwake was found just of the dam at 06.15 a.m. on May 7th. A Turtle Dove was at Carvers Rock on May 12th
• CARSINGTON WATER 4 Whimbrel on May 7th with a Great Northern Diver still present on May 8th along with a Kittiwake and an Arctic Tern
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A Turnstone on May 8th with a Marsh Harrier up to 07.35.a.m. on May 11th which flew off North.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS A Greenshank, 14 Ringed Plover and 9 Dunlin on May 8th. On May 9th 6 Great Crested Grebes, 25 Cormorants, 13 Mute Swans, 5 Grey Lag Geese, 2 Egyptian Geese, 13 Shelduck, 15 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 10 Tufted Duck, ,3 Buzzard, 2 Oystercatchers, 3 Dunlin, 3 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 4 Common Terns, 50+ Swifts moving West and a White Wagtail.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS Blue Headed Wagtail on May 9th. On May 12th 6 Little Grebes, 12 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Grey Herons, 3 Gadwall, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Kestrel, 34 Common Terns, 5 Arctic Terns-on the old windsurfing pit and 331 Swifts moving East in just over 105 mins.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Blue Headed Wagtail on My 9th with a Black Tailed Godwit and a Wood Sandpiper on May 10th. On May 12th 2 Black Tailed Godwits present along with an Egyptian Goose.
• PADLEY GORGE 2 Tree Pipits, 3 Redstarts and 12 Pied Flycatchers on May 10th.
• CHADDESDEN A Red Kite was watched low over the Beaufort Street area being mobbed by Crows on May 10th before flying off NE towards Oakwood.
• R.DERWENT. RAYNESWAY The 2 singing Cettis Warblers still present on May 10th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Red Kite flew North on May 11th.

• BLACK KITE One was watched by Trevor Grimshaw and his wife in Upper Derwentdale on Apr. 30th. This would be only the fourth county record if found acceptable by the county records committee with the last in 1997 at Carr Vale in late April.
• PLEASLEY COLLIERY A Wood Sandpiper was found here on Apr. 28th and remained until the 30th when it flew off Northwards mid-morning.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Red Kite on Apr 29/30th with a Whimbrel on the 30th. An Arctic Tern on May 4th.
• SOUTH WOOD 3 Red Kites flew over this area on Apr.29th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A cream crown Marsh Harrier flew low over the reed beds at about 8.45 a.m. on May 3rd. Also here on this date were 12 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 36 Mute Swans, 13 Gadwall, 40 Tufted Duck, 7 Oystercatcher, 3 Dunlin and 2 Ringed Plover-tundrea race birds early morning only on the Canal Pit, 8 Common Terns, c50 Swifts, 4 Yellow Wagtails and a female Blue Headed Wagtail on the Canal Pit in the afternoon plus the usual selection of Hirundines and Warblers.
• RAYNESWAY, DERBY A cream crown Marsh Harrier flew though at 9.30.a.m. on May 3rd, probably the Willington GP bird. Both Cettis Warblers were still present on May 4th and singing regularly.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR A drake Common Scoter off the dam on May 1st.
• PADLEY GORGE A singing male Wood Warbler on May 2nd with at least 3 Pied Flycatchers and 2 Redstarts here as well.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 3 Little Grebes, 17 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Shelduck, 4 Gadwall, 22 Tufted Duck, 13 Common Terns, 1 Cuckoo and c10 Swifts on May 1st. On May 5th 5 Little Grebes, 17 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Cormorants, 7 Grey Herons, 2 Grey Lag Geese, 2 Gadwall, 4 Tufted Duck, 1 Hobby flew West at 10.45 a.m., a Peregrine Falcon, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Common Terns, 14 Arctic Terns, 1 Cuckoo, c60 Swifts and c20 House Martins.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR This site continues to seem to be devoid of birds with just 2 Common Terns on May 1st and 2 Oystercatchers on May 5th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 7 Great Crested Grebes, 27 Cormorants, 1 Little Egret, 3 Grey Herons, 5 Shelduck, 1 Wigeon-drake, 16 Gadwall, 3 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 75 Tufted Duck, 2 Oystercatchers, 6 Redshank, and 2 Common Terns all on May 2nd. On May 4th 6 Great Crested Grebes, 15 Cormorants, 1 Little Egret, 2 Grey Herons, 4 Grey Lag Geese, 9 Shelduck, 2 Gadwall, 2 Teal, 41 Tufted Duck, 1 Oystercatcher, 3 Ringed Plover-tundrea race birds, 9 Dunlin, 1 Snipe, 3 Redshank, 1 Wood Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, 21 Swifts moving West and a Yellow Wagtail.
• CARSINGTON WATER Still 1 Great Northern Diver on May 4th with an Arctic Tern and a Black Tern moving through during early morning.

• WHISKERED TERNS After a blank day in the county yesterday-where were all the birders looking-1 bird returned to Willington Gravel Pits this morning-Apr. 28th-and was still present at dinner time showing well.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS Up to 11 Arctic Terns on Apr. 27th with a summer plumage Bar Tailed Godwit, a Common Sandpiper, a Snipe, 7 Common Terns and a Grasshopper Warbler on Apr. 28th.
• CARSINGTON WATER The summer plumage Bar Tailed Godwit still present on Apr. 27th and also 1 Arctic Tern present.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A report of an Avocet and a Whooper Swan on Apr. 26th. Five Arctic Terns and 2 Red Crested Pochard on Apr. 27th. On Apr. 28th the drake Red Crested Pochard was still present and a drake Red Breasted Merganser was on the pylon pit. Also here on Apr. 28th were 2 Little Grebes, 16 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 5 Grey Heron, 11 Grey Lag Geese, 2 Gadwall, 12 Tufted Duck, 1 Kestrel, 2 Grey Partridge, 2 Oystercatcher, 7 Common Terns, and 7 Swifts plus good numbers of Sand Martins, Swallows and a couple of House Martins.
• STAUNTON HAROLD RESERVOIR A Red Kite flew West at 1.30.p.m. on Apr. 27th.
• R.MEASE, DERBY/ STAFFS BORDER An Osprey was watched sat in a field being mobbed by Buzzards during the evening of Apr. 27th
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 5 Great Crested Grebes, 15 Tufted Duck, 1 Common Tern, 2 Arctic Terns, c300 Sand Martins, c30 Swallows and 3 House Martins on Apr. 28th.
• OGSTON RESEVOIR 4 Common Scoter on Apr. 28th.

• WHISKERED TERNS The flock of birds at Willington GP had decreased overnight and only 8 were left early morning on Apr. 25th. These remained here until 11.40.a.m. when first one or two birds gained height calling and the rest of the flock joined them and they all departed South. However by 12.05 p.m. the first birds had returned and eventually by 12.20.p.m. all 8 were back. They remained here all day and were still present up to 12.00.p.m. on Apr. 26th when the hawking birds were disturbed by a Hobby diving through the flock and causing mayhem. This was not helped by a Peregrine waiting on above and the whole flock departed but again 2 birds were back by 12.20.p.m. with a third bird returning about 6.30.p.m. but no sign this morning Apr. 27th. One bird was found at Long Eaton GP at 4.40.p.m. on Apr. 26th and was still present at 6.30.p.m.
  Part of this flock of 8 –a party of 5-were found at Croxall Gravel Pits in Staffs at about 4.00.p.m. on Apr. 26th and remained here until flying off SE about 7.30.p.m. and 3 are at Rutland Water this morning in South Arm 3-Apr. 27th. On Saturday Apr. 26th one was found in Gloucestershire with 2 arriving at Saltholme Reserve, Teeside on the afternoon of Apr. 26th with one also being seen in Northern Ireland at Quoile Poundage on Apr. 26th. Presumably all these sightings will be linked to the break up and dispersal of the Derbyshire flock.
  It is pleasing to report that the behaviour of the hoards who arrived at Willington GP was exemplary and it was a pity that nobody had the forethought to put a bucket out for a collection for the DWT on whose land these birds graced.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS Other sightings here over the weekend were a Red Kite, 3 Whimbrel and a Cuckoo on Apr. 24th, a Whinchat on Apr. 24/25th, 6+Swifts on Apr. 25th along with a report of a Ring Ouzel here. Also 2 Cuckoos on Apr. 26th. Up to 11 Arctic Terns here on Apr. 27th.
• CARSINGTON WATER An Avocet was found by Mark Pass early morning on Apr. 26th in front of the Wildlife Centre and remained here until flushed by a Black Headed Gull at 8.20.a.m., it then circled the reservoir before leaving South although it apparently returned by 10.00.a.m. A Bar Tailed Godwit in full summer plumage on Apr. 25/26th with a Black Tailed Godwit on Apr. 25th. Two Bar Tailed Godwits, a Whimbrel and a Black Tern on Apr. 24th. Still at least 1 Great Northern Diver still here showing well from Sheepwash Hide on Apr. 27th. This bird is almost in full summer plumage. A Dunlin, a Whimbrel, a Common Sandpiper and a female Wheatear, possibly a Greenland bird on Apr. 27th, also 1 Garden Warbler. An Arctic Tern on Apr. 27th
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Sandwich Tern present up to 6.40. a.m. on Apr. 26th before it flew off.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A Whimbrel flew East over Trent Meadows on Apr. 25th and a Red Kite flew east at about 2.00.p.m. on Apr. 26th
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS On Apr. 25th 8 Great Crested Grebes, 36 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 6 Shelduck, a drake Wigeon, 24 Gadwall, 5 Teal, a pair of Garganey-also present on Apr. 26th, 3 Shoveler, 743 Tufted Duck,6 Oystercatcher, a Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 2 Yellow Wagtails and a White Wagtail. Two Brent Geese flew through on Apr. 27th and an Egyptian Goose was present.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 4 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Grey Heron, 19 Tufted Duck, c20 Sand Martins, 5 Swallows, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and a Common Whitethroat on Apr. 25th

• WHISKERED TERN A flock of 11 Whiskered Terns were found at Willington Gravel Pits by Mike Redfern at 12.45 p.m. on Apr.24th. The flock was seen to drop in at this time at the east end of the main pits and then spent time hawking insects etc or perched on the posts at the West End viewed from the third platform. Mike contacted me once he got home and he asked for somebody to confirm his sighting which I was extremely happy to do. I found the flock at 2.30.p.m. and the news was then put out. This is almost certainly the largest ever flock of Whiskered Terns ever seen in Britain beating a party of 4 seen in Cheshire and Staffordshire in May 2006 and also the first Derbyshire record since one was shot on the River Trent near Barrow in the autumn of 1883. Also here were 3 Whimbrel and 3 Common Terns which gave a good comparison. A Red Kite flew low South over the reserve about 11.30a.m. on Apr. 23rd.
• CROMFORD CANAL, AMBERGATE A report of 2 Common Cranes flying West here at 1.15.p.m. on Apr. 24th.

• CETTIS WARBLERS On Apr. 17th a report of 2 singing males on the north bank of the River Derwent at Derby Sewage Works was phoned in to Richard James. This was checked out next morning and proved to be correct. Both birds are holding adjacent territories and singing against each other. There is no access into the Sewage Works but both birds can be heard and seen by standing on the south side of the River Derwent along the cycle path from Raynesway-Borrowash by the new pools close to the bridges into Acordis. They were both still singing on Apr. 19th.
• CARSINGTON WATER 12 Little Gulls and 35 Arctic Terns on Apr. 17th with 14 Little Gulls on Apr. 18th and a Whimbrel flew North. A Pied Flycatcher singing in Hall Wood on Apr. 20th. The 2 Great Northern Divers still present on Apr 21st and an early Honey Buzzard circled over the Hopton Inlet from 12.20-12.30 p.m. before moving off east escorted by 2 Common Buzzards. Also here on Apr. 21st were 7 Little Grebes, 47 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Grey Heron, 5 Cormorants, 31 Barnacle Geese and the Cackling Goose, 1 Shelduck, 130 Tufted Duck, 1 Dunlin briefly on Stones, 2 House Martins around the visitor centre, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Garden Warbler singing behind Sheepwash briefly and 2 Raven.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Sanderling, a Whimbrel and a Dunlin on Apr. 17th. The Black Necked Grebe still present on Apr. 18th but no sign on Apr. 19th. On Apr. 19th 1 Little Grebe, 15 Great Crested Grebes, 27 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 15 Gadwall, 9 Teal, 17 Shoveler, 32 Tufted Duck, 1 Pochard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 3 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 5 Oystercatchers, 1 Dunlin flew West, 2 Redshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Little Gull, 1 Arctic Tern which flew off East, 3 Yellow Wagtails, 1 Grasshopper Warbler and all the usual warbler species in varying numbers. A cream crown marsh Harrier flew North mid-afternoon on Apr. 22nd.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR 2 Black Necked Grebes on Apr. 18th with a Whimbrel on the dam wall on Apr. 20th. Seven Arctic Terns on Apr. 16th
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 2 Great Crested Grebes, 32 Tufted Duck, 4 Goldeneye, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Common Tern, c100 Sand Martins, c25 Swallows And a House Martin on Apr. 18th with 8 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Wigeon, 12 Gadwall, 1 Shoveler, 42 Tufted Duck and 41 Coot on Apr. 20th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS On Apr. 18th 8 Great Crested Grebes, 36 Cormorants, 3 Grey Herons, 10 Shelduck, 19 Gadwall, 40 Teal, 8 Shoveler, 101 Tufted Duck, 1 Goosander, 7 Snipe, 5 Redshank, 3 Green Sandpipers, 1 Common Sandpiper and a White Wagtail. A Whimbrel flew through on Apr. 19th.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 22 Great Crested Grebes, 3 Cormorants, 5 Grey Herons, 9 Grey Lag Geese, 2 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 2 Red Crested Pochard-a pair, 39 Tufted Duck, 4 Grey Partridge, 2 Oystercatchers, 3 Common Terns and a Green Woodpecker. The pair of Red Crested Pochard still present on Apr. 22nd.
• ELVASTON CASTLE COUNTRY PARK The Harris Hawk still present on Apr. 17th.
• TICKNALL A Red Kite flew towards Calke Park early afternoon on Apr. 17th.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A Knot and a Whimbrel on Apr. 17th.

• CETTIS WARBLER The singing bird still present in the SE corner of Derby Sewage Works on Apr 16th. View from the south bank of the R.Derwent, by the easternmost of the new pools just before the old bridge into the Acordis plant. The bird tends to work a circuit amongst the scrub and bushes in the corner of the Sewage Works.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS Up to 26 Arctic Terns here on Apr.15th over the main pools. The Black Necked Grebe still present on the Canal Pit on Apr.16th. Also here on the 15th were 1 Little Grebe, 15 Great Crested Grebes, 17 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 28 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 33 Tufted Duck,2 Oystercatcher, 4 Redshank,2 Sedge Warblers, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroats, 2 Blackcaps, 2 Chiffchaffs, 4 Willow Warblers and 2 Bullfinch. On Apr. 16th 8 Little Gulls-7 ads and an imm-were hawking over the main pools with 7 Arctic Terns and 6 Common Terns. Also 3 Barnacle Geese and a Whimbrel present along with 15 Shoveler, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, c100 Sand Martins, c50 Swallows, 1 House Martin, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Sedge Warblers and 4 Lesser Whitethroats.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 15 Arctic Terns on Apr. 15th with 24 Little Gulls-all ads-and 3 Arctic Terns on Apr. 16th. Still 4 Goldeneye on Apr.15th with 3 on Apr. 16th. c250 Sand Martins, c50 Swallows and a House Martin on Apr. 16th with smaller numbers of Hirundines on the 15th.
• CARSINGTON WATER 4 adult Little Gulls and 5 Arctic Terns on Apr. 15th with 14 Arctic Terns and 9 Little Gulls-8ads and an imm.-on Apr. 16th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR 4 Whooper Swans flew NW at 1.30.p.m. on Apr. 15th and an Arctic Tern flew through. 15 Little Gulls and 10 Arctic Terns on Apr. 16th
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 10 Little Gulls on Apr. 16th. Also 2 Little Grebes, 17 Great Crested Grebes, 4 Cormorants, 4 Grey Herons, 2 Shelduck, 4 Shoveler, 49 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Kestrel, 36 Coot, 2 Common Terns, c20 Sand Martins, c25 Swallows, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Common Whitethroat, 4 Blackcaps and 4 Willow Warblers.
• HARDWICK HALL An Osprey over The Great Pond at 12.48.p.m. flew towards Rowthorne.
• GREAVES PIECE A Cuckoo on Apr. 15th
• GOYT VALLEY/ERRWOOD RESERVOIR A male Pied Flycatcher on Apr. 14th

• R.DERWENT, RAYNESWAY A singing, presumably male, Cetti’s Warbler was found by Neil Loverock late morning on Apr.14th and was still present singing and occasionally showing here late afternoon. The bird is actually on private ground in Derby Sewage Works and is doing a circuit in the very SE corner of this site. The bird can be heard (and viewed) by standing on the South side of the R.Derwent where the river splits in two near the old bridge into Acordis. There is no access at all into the Sewage Works. This is the third county record after 1 at Drakelow Nature Reserve in May 1999 and a singing bird on private fishing lakes near Hilton on May 2007.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS On Apr. 11th 10 Great Crested Grebe, 21 Cormorants, 3 Grey Herons, 10 Mute Swans. 8 Sheduck, 1 Wigeon, 29 Gadwall, 92 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 113 Tufted Duck, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Goosander, 2 Oystercatchers, 6 Snipe, 6 Redshank, 5 Green Sandpipers, 2 Stock Dove, a Scandanavian Rock Pipit, 1 Yellow Wagtail and 7 White Wagtails. At 5.30.p.m. a Little Tern flew NE. On Apr. 12th 2 Avocets, a Ruff and a Dunlin were here but no sign on Apr. 13th but 20 Great Crested Grebes, 37 Cormorants, 5 Grey Herons, 4 Grey Lag Geese, 9 Shelduck, 1 Wigeon, 24 Gadwall, , 74 Teal, 7 Shoveler, 74 Tufted Duck, 2 Goldeneye, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Peregrine Falcon, 2 Oystrercatchers, 2 Redshank, 1 Green Sandpiper and 2 Stock Dove.
• LONG EATON 2 Waxwings were on Wilsthorpe Road at dinnertime on Apr 11th.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A Little Tern was seen briefly mid-afternoon on Apr. 11th and then re-appeared early evening until it flew off SE about 7.30.p.m. Also on Apr. 11th 1 Green Sandpiper and 2 Yellow Wagtails. On Apr. 13th 3 Common Terns flew West. On Apr. 14th 4 Little Grebes, 16 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 6 Grey Herons, 3 Grey Lag Geese,2 Shelduck, 2 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 52 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye, 2 Grey Partridge, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Curlew, 1 Green Woodpecker, 13 Sand Martin, 1 Blackcap, 2 Willow Warbler.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 9 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 48 Tufted Duck, 8 Goldeneye, 52 Coot and a Sand Martin on Apr. 12th. On Apr. 14th 8 Great Crested Grebes, 4 Gadwall, 42 Tufted Duck and 5 Goldeneye.
• WILLINGTOBN GRAVEL PITS The Black Necked Grebe still present on the Canal Pit on Apr. 13th. Also here on that dfate were 15 Great Crested Grebes, 14 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Shelduck, 2 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 8 Shoveler, 1 Pochard, 59 Tufted Duck, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, ,6 Oystercatchers, 1 Curlew, 2 Redshanl, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Sedge Warblers, 1 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcaps, 3 Chiffchaffs and 8 Willow Warblers.
• CARSINGTON WATER A Sandwich Tern was sat on Buoy 3 off Stones Island at 10.30.a.m. on Apr. 14th
• BARBROOK 2 Marsh Harriers were reported from here on Apr. 14th
• MOSCAR The Great Grey Shrike was still present and showing well on Apr. 13th.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The female Red Breasted Merganser still here on Apr.13th.

• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS 3 Avocets were found on a private part of the new workings at about 9.45 a.m. on April 10th but at about noon they flew low East across the pits and were lost as they flew over the hedge. Despite much searching during the afternoon they were not relocated. An Osprey flew North about 9.30.p.m. and a Little Egret was on the fly ash pit from the 3rd platform before flying off towards Newton Solney. The Black Necked Grebe was still present from Apr 9-11th. Also here on Apr 10th were 13 Great Crested Grebes, 14 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 6 Grey Lag Geese flew SW, 4 Shelduck, 16 Gadwall, 23 Teal, 11 Shoveler, 78 Tufted Duck, 7 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshank, 2 Green Sandpipers, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Herring Gulls flew West, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 5 Sand Martins, 2 Swallows on wires by the Church,1/2 Tree Pipits, 4/5 Yellow Wagtails, 1 Sedge Warbler-also on Apr 9th, 2 Blackcaps, 4 Chiffchaffs, 3 Willow Warblers and a Bullfinch.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Sandwich Tern flew SE at 8.10.a.m. with an Osprey seen to catch a fish and disappear over Carr Wood later on.
• GREAT GREY SHRIKE The bird still at Moscar 200 yards west of the Strines turn off on the A57 on Apr. 10th.
• BARBROOK VALLEY/BIG MOOR A “cream crown” Marsh Harrier flew North about 10.30.a.m. on Apr 10th with 2 Tree Pipits in Barbrook Plantation on same day.
• FOX LANE A Redstart on Apr 10th.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A singing Grasshopper Warbler, a singing Reed Warbler and a Yellow Wagtail on Apr 10th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 6 Green Sandpipers, 5 Redshank, a Yellow Wagtail and a White Wagtail on Apr 10th.
• TRENT MEADOWS 2 singing Sedge Warblers and a singing Grasshopper Warbler on Apr. 10th.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 6 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Cormorants, 3 Mute Swans, 2 Gadwall, 45 Tufted Duck, 2 Goldeneye, 65 Coot, 3 Sand Martins (S) and a Blackcap on Apr. 9th
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 2 Little Grebes, 9 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Cormorants, 2 Shelduck, 8 Gadwall, 41 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 2 Sparrowhawks, 2 Buzzards, 1 Kestrel, 51 Coot, 4 Great Black Backed Gulls (W), 10 Sand Martins and 3 Willow Warblers.
• ELVASTON CASTLE COUNTRY PARK The escaped Harris Hawk again present on Apr. 9th.

• WAXWINGS A flock of 26+ were in the Derbyshire Dales Car Park in Matlock on Apr. 4th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Sandwich Tern flew North at 7.30.a.m. on Apr 8th.
• GREAT GREY SHRIKE The bird at Moscar was still present this morning-Apr.8th. It was still by the A57 just c100yards West of the Strines turn off.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The female Red Breasted Merganser was again present early afternoon on Apr. 8th.
• CARSINGTON WATER A Swift drifted West about 10.10.a.m. on Apr. 8th. This would be the third earliest ever after birds on April 3rd 2005 and April 7th 2007
• CARSINGTON WATER 5 Avocets were found here about noon on Apr.2nd. There were 4 at Sheepwash with the fifth bird on Horseshoe Island. However all had joined up on Horseshoe Island early afternoon and had disappeared by 2.30.p.m. presumably disturbed by the boat fisherman. These were probably the same birds reported from Thornton Reservoir, Leicestershire earlier that morning. Also present were 3 Great Northern Divers, 22 Barnacle Geese, 11 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall. 4 Goldeneye, 4 Oystercatchers, 6 Redshank and a Tree Creeper near Paul Stanley Hide.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The Red Necked Grebe continued to show well up to Apr. 4th but was not seen on the 5/6th. The female Red Breasted Merganser still present on Apr. 6th but was not seen on the 7th although a House Martin was there. A Common Sandpiper on Apr. 5th.
• BLACK NECKED GREBE A summer plumage bird was found at Ogston Reservoir early morning on Apr. 5th and remained all day but was not present on the 6th. Another summer plumage bird was found by Richard James on the Canal Scrape at Willington Gravel Pits early morning on Apr 6th and was still present on the 7th.
• GREAT GREY SHRIKE The bird at Moscar which shows well along the A57 just west of the Strines turn off still present on Apr. 7th. Another was found on Big Moor by Little Barbrook Reservoir on Apr 4th.
• OSPREYS 1 flew North over Cow Hey, Howden Reservoir at 9.05.a.m. on Apr 1st; one flew over Ladybower Res during the afternoon on Apr. 4th; one flew North over Ogston Reservoir at about 9.30.a.m. on Apr. 5th; 1 flew North over Derwent Reservoir on Apr. 5th; 1 flew North over Stanage Edge at 10.05 a.m. on Apr 5th.
• RED KITES Single birds seen over Idridgehay on Apr 4th and over Heath early in the month.
• WAXWINGS 8 were at Barlborough on Chesterfield Road by the Treble Bob pub car park mid morning on Apr. 6th withy c20-30 reported from Blagreaves Lane, Littleover early afternoon on Apr 6th.
• BEELEY TRIANGLE Still 4 Short Eared Owls near here on Apr 1st with 2 on Apr. 5th.
• R.DERWENT, SPONDON WEIR A big female Peregrine Falcon sat up on a pylon behind Spondon Power Station on Apr 1st.
• DANEBOWER The male Ring Ouzel still here on Apr 3rd.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS 1 Little Grebe, 15 Great Crested Grebes, 17 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Grey Lag Geese, 6 Wigeon, 10 Gadwall, 32 Teal. 8 Shoveler, 52 Tufted Duck, 2 Buzzard, 5 Oystercatcher, 2 Curlew, 3 Redshank, 3 Herring Gulls, 1 Great Black Backed Gull, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 6 Chiffchaff and 8 Goldfinch on Apr. 3rd. Also 2 escaped Cape Shelduck on Apr 3rd and also on the 5th. A White Wagtail, 2 Yellow Wagtails and 2 Willow Warblers on Apr 4th. On Apr 6th 6 Little Grebes, 13 Great Crested Grebes, 17 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Egyptian Geese, 5 Wigeon, 8 Gadwall, 32 Teal, 16 Shoveler, 53 Tufted Duck, 1 Goosander, 8 Oystercatchers, 1 Curlew, 5 Redshank, 2 Green Sandpipers, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 6 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 4 Willow Tits, 1 Raven flew East. On Apr 7th the 2 Egyptian Geese and 2 Green Sandpipers again present.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A Grey Plover on Apr 4th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 8 Great Crested Grebes, 26 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 27 Mute Swans, 8 Shelduck, 5 Wigeon, 10 Gadwall, 181 Teal, 22 Shiveler, 107 Tufted Duck, 6 Goosanders, 1 Buzzard, 2 Oystercatchers, 3 Snipe, 5 Redshank and 6 Sans Martins on Apr 4th. On Apr. 5th 10 Great Crested Grebes, 10 Cormorants including the colour ringed Dutch bird, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret, 9 Shelduck, 2 Wigeon, 112 Teal, 14 Gadwall, 15 Shoveler, 78 Tufted Duck, 4 Goldeneye, 3 Goosander, 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, ,2 Oystercatchers, 1 Snipe, 13 Redshank, 4 Green Sandpipers and a Chiffchaff.
• BARROW-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS An Egyptian Goose and 2 Green Sandpipers on Apr 5th.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 6 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Wigeon, 7 Gadwall, 31 Tufted Duck and 10 Goldeneye on Apr 5th.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 1 Little Grebe, 9 Great Crested Grebe, 6 Cormorants, 3 Grey Herons, 21 Egyptian Geese, 1 Gadwall, 2 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 58 Tufted Duck, 4 Goldeneye, 58 Coot, 4 Oystercatchers, 10 Sand Martins, 10 Meadow Pipits and a Willow Warbler all on Apr.7th.

• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The adult Red Necked Grebe, which is now almost in full summer plumage, still present and showing well on Apr.1st. The female Red Breasted Merganser first seen on Mar 31st also still present on Apr 1st. On Mar 31st 1 Little Grebe, 30 Great Crested Grebes, 15 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 6 Tufted Ducks, 3 Buzzards, 1 Kestrel, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Swallow flew North, 10 Pied Wagtails and 8 Fieldfares. Would birders please note that the Dam Wall and the whole area on the West Bank is private with no access which is only granted to the wardens and volunteers and birds here should only be viewed from the public areas on the East Bank.
• CARSINGTON WATER Still up to 3 Great Northern Divers here at the end of March.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR 2 Mandarins and a Swallow on Mar 26th; single Ospreys flew North on Mar 28/29th.
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE An adult Kittiwake flew SW at 7.20.a.m. on Mar 23rd with it (or another) North at 8.10.a.m. A Red Kite flew South East at 10.00.a.m. on Mar 29th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS An Egyptian Goose and 8 Crossbills flew West on Mar 27th. On Mar 31st 1 Little Grebe, 12 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Cormorants, 2 Shelduck, 12 Wigeon, 13 Gadwall, 36 Teal, 6 Shoveler, 2 Pochard, 40 Tufted Duck,2 Goosander, 2 Buzzard, 5 Redshank, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Tits, c20 Linnets and c20 Goldfinches.
• BARROW-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 2 Green Sandpipers on a small pool near the River Trent on Mar 24th with 1 on (29th)
• LONG EATON GHRAVEL PITS A White Wagtail on Trent Meadows on Mar 29th. On Mar 30th 3 Little Grebes, 8 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 3 Grey Herons, 4 Teal, 48 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 70 Coot, 2 Oystercatchers, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 Sand Martin.
• RAPTORS Single Ospreys flew North over Howden Reservoir on Mar 29/Apr 1st and over Cromford on Mar 31st. A Red Kite flew East over Sheldon on Mar 29th with one over Great Hucklow on Mar 31st.
• GREAT GREY SHRIKE One in the Cutthroat Bridge/Ladybower Reservoir area from Mar 29-Apr 1st.
• RING OUZEL Still at least 1 bird at Danebower on Mar 31st.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 18 Great Crested Grebes, 30 Cormorants, 18 Mute Swans, 10 Shelduck, 27 Wigeon, 8 Gadwall, 145 Teal, 17 Shoveler, 74 Tufted Duck, 40 Goldeneye, 2 Oystercatchers, 1 Snipe, 5 Redshank, 19 Pied Wagtails, 3 Meadow Pipits and 8 Fieldfares all on Mar 28th.

• RED THROATED DIVERS 1, reportedly in partial summer plumage, was found at Carsington Water from Sheepwash Hide at 3.25 p.m. on Mar 22nd but was very elusive and apparently not seen by many. A winter plumage bird flew into Foremark Reservoir at 3.00.p.m. on Mar 22nd and remained overnight allowing a good few people to catch up with it despite the very choppy conditions that existed here this morning.
• TAIGA BEAN GEESE A small skein of 5 birds flew around Ogston Reservoir from 7.02-7.08 a.m. on Mar 22nd before they flew off SE. Five Grey Geese flew back NW some time later but were to far off to identify. Unless notes are received on the report of 2/4 birds flying low over Leash Fen last November this is the first record in the county of Bean Goose since one in 2004 which was thought to be an escape. It may be that we have to go back to 1999 for the last truly wild Bean Goose in Derbyshire and these may even be the first “Taiga” race birds to be identified in the county.
• RED KITE 1 flew over Ogston Reservoir at 3.15.p.m. on Mar 19th; 1 was over Trent Meadows heading for Long Eaton Gravel Pits at 10.05 a.m. on Mar 21st and 1 was over Arkwright Town heading for Carr Vale Nature Reserve on Mar 22nd.
• SWALLOWS Single birds flew along the R.Derwent at Chatsworth and over the A38 roundabout at Littleover both on Mar 20th.
• RING OUSEL Still 1 at noon on Mar 22nd at Danebower on the Cheshire/Derbyshire border with 1 at Buxton still near the stone chimney also on Mar 22nd.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR 4 Mealy Redpolls and a House Martin on Mar 19th.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Kittiwake down for about an hour on Mar 22nd and also a Swallow present here.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS On Mar 21st 13 Great Crested Grebes, 26 Cormorants, 16 Shelduck, 40 Wigeon, 18 Gadwall, 82 Teal, 26 Shoveler, 2 Pochard, 125 Tufted Duck, 29 Goldeneye, 3 Smew-2 drakes and a female, 1 Buzzard, 3 Snipe, 4 Redshank and 11 Common Gulls. On Mar 22nd 33 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 12 Shelduck, 10 Gadwall, 86 Teal, 40 Shoveler, 30 Goldeneye, 1 Buzzard, 2 Snipe, 5 Redshank, 1 Green Sandpiper and an adult Caspian Gull which eventually flew off NE.

• WAXWINGS Still 1 in Chesterfield at the junction of Hasland Road/Penmore Close on Mar 18th. In Long Eaton 22 were at the corner of Devonshire Avenue/The Hollows at 10.45 a.m. on Mar 18th.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The second winter Iceland Gull roosted again on Mar 17/18th and was joined by 2 adult Mediterranean Gulls on Mar 17th. The Red Necked Grebe was still present and showing well on Mar 18th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR 19 Whooper Swans arrived at 9.58 a.m. on Mar 18th and were still present on Mar 19th. Still a Lesser spotted Woodpecker here on Mar 18th
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE 19 Whooper Swans flew NE at 11.42 a.m. on Mar 18th. This was the Ogston flock which departed the reservoir before returning later.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Twite was reported on the Canal Pit with a large flock of Meadow Pipits and a few Linnets late morning on Mar 18th. It was looked for early afternoon but not relocated. This species is exceptionally rare in the Trent Valley and will require to be backed up by full details etc.
• ALESTREE PARK Still at least 1 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker-a female- on Mar 18th just north of the lake.
• DERBYSHIRE/CHESHIRE BORDER A male Ring Ousel was at Danebower between Leek And Buxton on Mar 18th.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 1 Little Grebe, 7 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Cormorants, 2 Grey Herons, 13 Wigeon, 10 Gadwall, 62 Tufted Duck, 28 Goldeneye and 98 Coot on Mar 18th.
• WILNE LANE, SAWLEY 2 Oystercatchers and 2 Little Owls on Mar 18th.
• ST. CHADS WATER 14 Tufted Duck on Mar 18th.

• WAXWINGS Still birds about. There were 40 at Cotmamhay along the Erewash Canal on Mar 12th. There were 80 still in St.Johns Road, Ilkeston on Mar 13th. Also birds reported on Mar 17th in Chesterfield in the Hasland Road/Penmore Close area.
• RED KITE 1 was seen flying over Sydnope Stand towards Beeley Moor on Mar 15th where it showed well for an hour before flying towards Chatsworth. One was over Shillito Woods at 12.05 p.m. on Mar 16th before flying off SW and one was over Bottom Moor Plantation, Matlock Forest late afternoon on Mar 16th. One flew South over Belper at 1.55.p.m. on Mar 17th.
• ALLESTREE PARK Still up to 3 Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers being seen up to Mar 15th
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The Red Necked Grebe still present on Mar 17th and often shows well, close in, near the Visitor Centre. On Mar 13th an adult Iceland Gull was found by Chris Brown at 3.45.p.m. and this was joined by a near adult Glaucous Gull from 5.00.p.m. On Mar 14th the Glaucous Gull was again in the roost and was aged as a 3rd winter. Also roosting on Mar 14th was a juv. Iceland Gull.
• CARSINGTON WATER Still 4 Great Northern Divers here on Mar 15th. The female Scaup still present on Mar 13th. A Sand Martin on Mar 12th. On Mar 14th an adult Kittiwake flew through at 6.55 a.m. and a Black Tailed Godwit was near the Wildlife Centre. A Rock Pipit was on the dam wall for about 2 hours late afternoon on Mar 15th before flying off NE. On Mar 17th 2 Black Tailed Godwits present from the Wildlife Centre along with 2 Little Ringed Plovers and a juv. Iceland Gull present at 8.32 a.m.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS A Little Ringed Plover on the Canal Scrape briefly on Mar 11th. A Peregrine flew across the Canal Scrape on Mar 12th. An adult Mediterranean Gull, 36 Goosander, 4 Sand Martins and 14 Dunlin on Mar 15th with a different adult Mediterranean Gull on Mar 16th. On Mar 17th 8 Great Crested Grebes, 18 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 5 Shelduck, 54 Wigeon, 16 Gadwall, 30 Teal, 14 Shoveler, 3 Pochard, 33 Tufted Duck, 4 Goosander, 7 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 2 Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 4 Redshanks, 1 Green Sandpiper, 5 Common Gulls, 4 Green Woodpeckers, c50 Meadow Pipits, 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Long Tailed Tits, 2 Ravens and 5 Bullfinches.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS An adult Mediterranean Gull on Mar 12th. On Mar 16th 3 Little Grebes, 10 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 37 Wigeon, 9 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 64 Tufted Duck, 8 Goldeneye, 1 Buzzard, 94 Coot and 2 Green Woodpeckers. A Little Ringed Plover on Mar 17th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR A male Lesser Spotted Woodpecker on Mar 13/14th and 3 Sand Martins flew through on Mar 13th with 1 on the 14th. 2 Oystercatchers on Mar 13/14th with 4 on the 15th. A Brambling, 4 Curlews NW and at least 2 Chiffchaffs on Mar 14th. 3 Mealy Redpolls and 5 Curlew through on Mar 15th.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 15 Great Crested Grebes, 31 Cormorants, 5 Grey Herons, 16 Shelduck, c115 Wigeon, 41 Gadwall, 146 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 5 Pochard, 99 Tufted Duck,35 Goldeneye, 2 Smew-drake and female, 6 Goosander, 5 Oystercatchers, 4 Ringed Plover, 2 Snipe, 6 Redshank and a Green Sandpiper all on Mar 14th. On Mar 15th 30 Cormorants, 6 Grey Herons, 16 Shelduck, 107 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 4 Pochard, 1 drake Pochard x Ferruginous Duck hybrid, 7 Goldeneye, 4 Goosander, 4 Buzzard, 1 Dunlin, 1 Snipe, 7 Redshank,2 Green Sandpipers and 34 Common Gulls
• CARR VALE NATURE RESERVE A Wheatear on Mar 15th.
• DRAKELOW NATURE RESERVE 2 Wheatear on Mar 15th with 3 on Mar 16th.
• AMBASTON VILLAGE A Swallow flew North over the village at 9.10.a.m.
• BEELEY MOOR Still a Short Eared Owl over Harewood Moor on Mar 15th.
• BARROW GRAVEL PITS A Pink footed Goose and a report of a White Wagtail on Mar 15th.
• SWARKESTONE The 2 Cackling Geese still in fields near the R.Trent opposite Swarkestone Lake on Mar 17th with 35 Canada Geese and a Grey Lag Goose.

• WAXWINGS At Belper a flock of c100 were in gardens by Alton Manor nursery on Mar. 6th with c30 in the John O’ Gaunt/Jodrell Avenue and Alton Road area on Mar 7th.
• ALLESTREE PARK Up to 3 Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers-2 males and a female-have been seen here from Mar 3rd-10th usually in the alders on the golf course side of the main-lower lake but also in the tall trees between the Main car park at the North end and the lake itself. Between 4-8 Mandarin have also been present occasionally. A Red Kite flew North here on Mar 4th at 3.25.p.m. Two male Siskin on Mar 9th
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The Red Necked Grebe was still present on Mar 8th and showing well.
• CROMFORD AREA Still up to 6 Hawfinches in this area-usually in trees by the Willersley Castle entrance Mar 4-10th.
• R.DERWENT. AMBASTON The adult Whooper Swan still with the Mute Swan flock on Mar 8th.
• CARSINGTON WATER Still 4 Great Northern Divers present on Mar 4th with one/two noted since then. The female Scaup still present on Mar 5th with an adult Yellow Legged Gull on Mar 8th.
• OGSTON RESERVOIR An adult Kittiwake from 0735-0750 a.m on Mar 7th with a Red Kite from 5.12-5.15.p.m. which may have gone to roost in Carr Wood. Also 2 Mandarin present on Mar 7th.
• BARROW-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS 3 Little Egrets on Mar 5th and a Pink Footed Goose with the Grey Lags on Mar 7th.
• LOCKO PARK LAKE Still 1 Pink Footed Goose here with Grey Lags on Mar 7th, also 4 Buzzards
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS Just 1 drake Smew on Mar 5th. On Mar 7th 13 Great Crested Grebes, 61 Cormorants including the Dutch colour ringed bird, 4 Grey Herons, 21 Shelduck, c40 Wigeon, 33 Gadwall, 94 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 8 Pochard, 124 Tufted Duck, 43 Goldeneye, 1 Goosander, 3 Oystercatcher, 12 Lapwing, 1 Jack Snipe, 2 Snipe, 4 Redshank and 4 Green Sandpipers.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS 3 Little Grebes, 7 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Cormorants, 51 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 19 Shoveler, 14 Pochard, 64 Tufted Duck, 6 Goldeneye, 1 Sparrowhawk, 113 Coot,1 Snipe, 5 Common Gulls, 1 Green Woodpecker and c20 Linnets on Mar 10th

• WAXWINGS At Belper a small flock of 24 birds seen briefly on Feb 28th. In Heanor behind the Cross Keys Pub on Derby Road still 25 on Feb 28th with 26 on Mar 1st. In Wingerworth on, Mill Lane, a flock of 50 on Mar 1st with 14 on Hilltop Road, Pinxton on Mar 2nd.
• FOREMARK RESERVOIR The Red Necked Grebe still present and showing well on Mar 3rd. The 2 second winter Iceland Gulls both roosted on Fe 28th.
• ALLESTREE PARK A pair of Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers have been showing well from Feb 28-Mar 3rd usually at the north end if the lake. Also 8 Mandarins here on Mar 3rd.
• ASTON-ON-TRENT GRAVEL PITS On Feb 28th 9 Great Crested Grebes, 4 Cormorants, 4 Grey Herons, 16 Shelduck, 96 Wigeon, 44 Gadwall, 161 Teal, 10 Shoveler, 18 Pochard, 103 Tufted Duck, 32 Goldeneye, 3 Smew-2 drakes and a female, 6 Goosander, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 5 Redshank, 1 Snipe and a Green Sandpiper.
• CROMFORD AREA Up to 15 Hawfinches just in the grounds of the Willersley Castle Hotel Mar 1st-3rd.
• BEELEY MOOR A Grey male Hen Harrier on Mar 1st.
• SWARKESTONE LAKES The female Scaup still present on Mar 2nd with the 2 Cackling Geese still on the fields near here.
• LONG EATON GRAVEL PITS A Sand Martin was here late afternoon on Mar 2nd hawking insects above the pathway to the River Trent at the end of Meadow Lane. This equals the earliest date ever for this species in the county. Also here were 2 Little Grebes, 17 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Egyptian Goose, 2 Grey Lag Geese, 147 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 2 Teal, 49 Shoveler, 40 Pochard, 67 Tufted Duck, 4 Goldeneye, 2 Goosander-drakes, 1 Buzzard, 110 Coot, 1 Snipe, 1 Green Sandpiper, 10 Common Gulls, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 5 Stonechats-3 males and 2 females and 4 Long Tailed Tits.
• WILLINGTON GRAVEL PITS 2 Little Egrets on Mar 3rd which flew off East.
• TRENT/DOVE CONFLUENCE, NEWTON SOLNEY 2 Little Egrets and 56 Curlew on Mar 3rd.
• AVENUE WASHLANDS NATURE RESERVE A Little Egret on Mar 3rd.
• DRAKELOW WILDFOWL RESERVE An ad. Yellow Legged Gull on Mar 3rd.
• CHURCH WILNE RESERVOIR 1 Little Grebe, 10 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Cormorants, 47 Wigeon, 8 Gadwall, 4 Pochard, 122 Tufted Duck, 22 Goldeneye, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Oystercatchers on Mar 3rd.
• R.DERWENT, AMBASTON The adult Whooper Swan still present in fields on the Draycott side of the River Derwent on Mar 3rd. Also here 20 Mute Swans, 2 Wigeon, 4 Tufted Duck and 3 Goosander.

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