September 2026 highlights
This month kicked off in style with a juvenile RED BACKED SHRIKE at Avenue CP from 3rd-5th. Following last month's record two HONEY BUZZARD were seen in the county this month; one at Upper Pilsley on 26th and another at Shirebrook on 28th. The countrywide influx of PECTORAL SANDPIPER finally reached us when one was seen in the evening at Carsington Water on 10th, and subsequently a second bird was located the following day. They remained until 20th spending the majority of their stay at Millfields. There was a BLACK-NECKED GREBE at Carsington Water on 2nd with another at Long Eaton GP on 7th. The RUDDY SHELDUCK was seen again at Staunton Harold Res on 27th.
GARGANEY Carsington Water, with one from 4th to month end, and Willington Wetlands, with one on 1st with two from 8th to month end. A SCAUP was reported at Carsington Water on 12th but no further sign. GREY PLOVER were seen at Barrow GP, with one on 27th and Carsington Water, one on 29th. Up to three KNOT were at Carsington Water 2nd-6th, with another seen at Staunton Harold Res, remarkably whilst the observer was actually searching for the TURNSTONE on 11th. A LITTLE STINT was at Carsington Water from 1st to 11th, with another possible sighting on 20th. A juvenile SPOTTED REDSHANK was seen at Carsington Water on 19th and was picked up again the following day at Millfields. A WOOD SANDPIPER was also at Carsington Water on 5th and 11th, possibly two different birds.
Steve Thorpe
