Pits welcomes new visitors

Peregrine recharging energy after another failed hunt

Red Kite

Around 200 Starlings present currently

Cormorant Tree

Main Pit (east side)

Always plenty to see when reaching the main pit

Visits on Friday, Sunday & Monday to the pits recorded pretty similar sighting still lacking any wader movement. On Sunday Jon, Chris & myself hosted Roger Broadbent (Chairman of West Midland Bird Club), Jim Winsper (West Midland Bird Club long term contact) & the new Warwickshire recorder Chris Hill. Two Red Kites past over the car as we went through Dunnington.

A Sparrowhawk flew over Roger's car as he pulled up and we headed round for a full tour of the site. It was interesting to note new visitors thoughts on the site and the current restrictions with access and no management. A pair of Mandarins flew over that looked like they could land on the main pit but sadly they kept going. A few more signtings of this species in recent weeks is encourgaing. We are still trying desperatly to find the overdue Stonechat & Marsh Tit for the site year list.

A male & female Peregrine started the session well, whilst the male hung around all morning trying a varied type of attacks including trying to take down a flying Cormorant. At the main pit, a Water Rail was creeping around under the willows, whilst other counts uncluded 390 Greylag, 5 Wigeon, 70 Lapwing & 3 Swallows.

Two Green Sandpipers flew out from the drainage ditch which also contain many Meadow Pipits. Sadly the Old Workings was quiet except a Grey Heron & the regular Stock Doves. 

The Cormorant count contines to rise with 56 being present on their regular old tree above the south lagoons. We are hoping the Manadrin or Sandpiper could have been down here but all very quiet except a flyover by one of the previously seen Red Kites.

More Skylarks and Pipits were on the meadow as we headed back north past the central lagoon befoe ending back at the main pit where 4 Jays flew over very high heading south. There certianly seems to be a influx this Autumn.

It was a pleasure to welcome both Roger & Chris to the site for the morning. All of the team really enjoyed their company and it excellent to understand their very committed roles. The roles these guys do benefit us all and can not be underestimated.