Monday 4th July 2011 - Evening



18:00 > 1930
Warm, broken cloud, sun.

A leisurely evening walk around the perimeter with my sister (Aloha!) intending to see Kingfishers and Little Owls and dipping on both, a bit of a let down especially on the latter given how confiding they've been lately.

News of the day though is that Common Terns have bred on the site for the first time, a pair of adults with three fledged youngsters in tow.

Also seen tonight, five Little Egret, a couple of Little Ringed Plovers and a single Oystercatcher. The Lapwing families continue to do well also. Still no sign of Yellow Wagtail.

Thursday 30th June 2011



20:45 21:15
Dusk, broken cloud, 16c

After a few days away a late a last chance to see out the month and a late, late look in to see if any of the recent small wader movement had landed at the Farm.

A first returnee of the ever reliable Green Sandpipers din't let me down picking about on the mud on the Top Pool, south of the farm buildings. No sign of Yellow Wagtails tonight so they've ever bred and moved on or it was too late in the evening.

Also a few Little Ringed Plovers along the shoreline making the most of the last light along with the Common Tern pair a lone Little Egret and the various Lapwing families.

On leaving one of the Little Owls was perched on it favourite roost atop the 'roofed' wall.

Friday 24th June 2011 - Afternoon

Leftovers...

14:00 > 16:00
Broken cloud, westerly wind, 20c.

Having not walked the complete perimeter for a few weeks now I took a couple of hours out to do the complete circuit from aquaduct to viaduct and back.

First been seen, or rather heard was a Little Owl, no doubt one of yesterdays pair, in the hedgerow leading down to the water behind the farm.

Waterside I counted nine Little Ringed Plovers of various ages whilst Yellow Wagtials continue to expand their range post breeding with birds seen feeding on the cut grass areas alongside the River Ouse.

Also along the Ouse a pair of Common Tern continue to fish and for any of you photographers wanting close up shots they are hovering aboves pools just a matter of feet away from the path.

And talking of fishing also along the river the first Kingfisher I've seen in a while since the bank and tree clearance in the Kingfisher 'hot spot' of the last few summers. The bird came off the closed off area of the river so maybe one of the pairs nearer the railway is heading west for a bit more peace and quiet.

And in reverse a Treecreeper, a bird that numerous at the western end but all but missing in the east was seen just by the viaduct itself. Also in this area the multitude of Sand Martin coming off the gravel working to hunt and drink along the river.

Others birds of note, a pair of Common Buzzard, the Great Crested Grebe and three Little Egret including one in the river.

Given the weather insect activity has been slow on the uptake this year but a noticable increase in numbers of the commoner butterfly species and dragon and damselfly was noted today.

Last word though goes to a crustacean and a dead one at that. The American Crawdaddy or Signal Crayfish to you and me. I've seen live 'crawdads' further upstream around Stratford and have viewed people trying to catch them to the eastern end of the site, with little success, but the first definite proof i've encountered were the remains found along Back Brook, see pic above.

Whatever had it for lunch seemed to know its business, leaving the sharps bits on the bank while the fleshy body was nowhere to be seen (you'd like to think Otter but who knows). The claws were around an inch or so long on their own so it gives you an idea of the size these pests are getting up to. One down, a few hundred thousand countrywide to go but at least at Manor Farm they seem to have a predator.

And a tip for you. Having left my camera at home on Friday I wrapped the claws in a bag and put them in my rucksack to photograph at home. Not advisable on a warm day. The stink on opening was rich to say the least. Dead shellfish and sun, don't mix...

Wednesday 22nd June 2011 - Evening

An increasing prickly problem...



17:30 > 18:30
Sun after showers, SW wind, 20c.

An evening stroll around the site and still much to see. A third pair of Little Ringed Plover now have young whilst a fourth Lapwing family can also be seen. All viewed from the riverside walk along the Ouse but views from this path are few and far between now as the thistles are growing like wildfire along the area between the river and the main body of water, some up over seven feet already. Whilst no doubt they will atrract butterflies a plenty as they did last year, the views could all but disappear before summer is out on this side.

Still plenty to see from the southern banks though. A pair of Oystercatcher still remain as do the Common Terns but its was herons who stole the show today, alongside what looked like a family party of five Little Egret were nine Grey Heron including a handful of gawky gangly juveniles.

Out on the water Tufted Ducks with chicks and the Great Crested Grebe pair continue to doze with little or no effort to do much else it seems.

Away from the water a Hobby put a late sortee through the site, sending the numerous Sand and House Martins in all directions while up on the slopes a few Yellow Wagtails have started to appear in evenings again.

And finally around the farm building a pair of lively Little Owl could be seen as I headed off home.

Tuesday 14th June 2011 - Evening



17:30 > 18:30
Sunny, warm, SW breeze, 22c.

A midweek visit in hope rather than expectation but suprisingly quite a lot going on at the site.

A pair of Common Redshank are new arrivals but its the 'long stayers' that are the main attraction still. Two Little Ringed Plover families can now be found along the shoreline. One pair with every growing young catching up with their parents while a second have a couple of the 'fluffy golf balls' running about.

Not to be outdone a second Yellow Wagtail family with young looks like being joined by a third as adults were seen taking food into into the vegatation. A combination of the right habitat arriving just as the multitude of Yellowags arrived this year has tempted a few to stay with the desired result.

The two Lapwing broods continue to do well and given the aerial bombardment any visiting crows get I suspect there are other unseen families about the site.

The crows were not the only predators looking for an easy lunch as a female Sparrowhawk flew over an unaccesible part of the site finding itself being mobbed by around one eighty Sand Martins, suggesting there is quite a colony building up following on from the small first time community last year.

Elswhere the Great Crested Grebe pair remain while four Little Egret and three squabbling Oystercatcher were later arrivals. The pair of Common Tern dozed on the end of the spit and look unlikely to be bringing any new life into the world this year.

Common Whitethroat were seen along the thistle banking with food which suggests another breeding success capped a good evenings birding.

Thursday 9th June 2011 - Evening

18:00 > 18:30
Cloud, odd sun break, west breeze and a coolish 16c.

A quick visit and not too much to report re visitors but another breeding success in Little Ringed Plover with two young, the third year in a row the species has bred on site. Not only that but second broods of Lapwing and Yellow Wagtail were also seen whilst our on the water a pair of Canada Geese has six goslings in tow.

Apart from the little breeders though nothing else reallof not bar a lone Little Egret.

Thursday 2nd June 2011 - Evening

17:30 to 18:00
Sunny, warm but with light NE breeze, 22c.

June is definitely here and not just temperature wise as the site slows down for its summer slumber. Not too much to report. The Yellow Wagtail family dip in and out of the vegatation at times whilst a second pair appear more active now (watch this space). The first Lapwing brood appear to have got over the attention of the corvids and all three are now a fair size.

Little Ringed Plovers can still be found on site and a pair of Common Terns continue to hang about as do the displaying pair of Great Created Grebe and a couple of Little Egret.

With water levels going down House Martins are making good use of the wet mud for nesting (the colony in the middle of Wolverton is building up well) with numerous birds dropping in and out, their cousins the Sand Martins continue to mass over the gravel workings and are no doubt busy procreating at an unseen and unaccessible part of the site as they did last year. An odd Swallow or two continue to hunt low over what is left of the meadow while numerous Swift continue north overhead.

A single drake Teal is a new arrival (or very good at hiding) while a pair of Gadwall and half a dozen Tufted Duck can still be found. At least three Mallard broods have been successful with quite a few ducklings already catching up with their parents in size, what a difference from last year when due to a lack of water it was a real struggle.

On leaving one of the Little Owls was flitting about along the Ridge.

Tuesday 31st May 2011 - Evening

Still around...

17:45 > 18:30
Sunny, NW breeze, 17c.

As we say goodbye to May the summer slumber seems to have somewhat already sneaked in given activity today.

Breeding success is again the order of the day with young Pied Wagtail as well as Yellow Wagtail initially seen last week now picking about in the mud along the shorelines. A rather scruffy White Wagtail was seen too, the first in a while but then given what else has been happening it has probably been overlooked.

Elsewhere one of the Lapwing pairs now has three sizable chicks in tow.

Two Great Crested Grebe doing their mating ritual suggests more new life is to come.

The usual Little Ringed Plovers and Oystercatchers were present as were three Little Egret and up to six Grey Heron together in a group on 'Knot Pool'. In the small corner copse by the farm itself a Little Owl flitted about and on leaving a single Common Tern flew in.

And that, as they say, is your lot!

Friday 27th May 2011 - Afternoon



14:00 > 15:00
Cloud, sunny spells, cool westerly, 13c.

First visit for a couple of weeks and although not anything too exciting a couple of breeding sucesses new to the site in both Lapwing and Yellow Wagtail with young.

Elswhere the usual Little Ringed Plovers were the only other waders present. The Common Tern pair still remain while half a dozen summer plumaged Black Headed Gulls were in the inlet. Three Little Egret were dotted about the site.

Along the Ouse one of the Mute Swan pairs has half a dozen signets (see pic) in tow while Sedge and Reed Warbler numbers have increased. Reed Buntings were seen taking food into the reedbed at the entrance to Back Brook suggesting successful breeding also.

Sun 22nd May 2011 - Little Stint confirmation...

Per NBBR

The LITTLE STINT is still at Manor Farm this evening , thanks to Rob H for finally checking it out.

Sat 21st May - Poss Litte Stint per NBBR

From SiNich

Probable LITTLE STINT this evening at Manor Farm this evening - Andy M has emailed me the below, seems pretty good description :-


"I don't know if anyone can help but I have just returned from Manor Farm, Old Wolverton and am pretty sure I've seen a Little Stint on the main island working along the 'shoreline'.

I am a fairly inexperienced birder so any confirmation of this sighting would be much appreciated. I've checked through my Collins guide and it seems consistent on the basis of size (it stood next to a pied wagtail for a bit and the body size was about the same, minus the wagtails tail obviously) and plumage (distinct cream lines down the back form the nape, upper mottled with dark spots and lower clean white - no dark markings as with 'sumplum' Dunlin) also a dark straight bill and dark legs."

Friday 13th May 2011 - Afternoon



14:00 > 15:30
Cloudy, west breeze, 15c.

Cooler than of late but still something of interest this afternoon at the Farm. The usual Little Ringed Plovers, Lapwings and Oystercatchers while an odd Yellow Wagtail could be seen popping in and out of the vegatation waterside. Elsewhere a single Common Redshank picked about in the shallows.

A lone drake Pochard was a new addition whilst an odd duck family is there in the making. A female Mallard already with ducklings has a drake Tufted Duck in tow. Indeed so enamoured is she of him that when a drake Mallard appeared (and i'm presuming its the father) she gave him what for before returning to her new beau who seems quite settled in his adoptive role.

Bird of the day though was undoubtedly a Hobby, strafing backwards and forwards along the Inlet picking insects off the water, which given they were virtually impossible to see i'm presuming were Mayfly. Ideal position for photography if only the light would play ball, it didn't but still got some record shots, see above and below. (more to follow)



Thursday 12th May 2011 - Evening



17:30 > 18:30
Sunny, west wind 17c.

For a change a walk along the canal stretch before joining the path along the Ouse.

Pretty much the usual suspects in Little Ringed Plovers, Lapwings, Oystercatchers and Yellow Wagtails along with a couple of Little Egret and the resident Common Terns. A fairly large Swift passage this evening also.

A Lesser Whitethroat along the river was a nice addition, whilst a lone Hobby put in its usual aerial display.

Star of the night though a group of Chaffich who have learnt the art of hanging off a pollarded Willow to pick of Mayfly as they rise off the water, see pic above.

Wednesday 11th May 2011 - Evening

17:15 > 17:45
Cloud, SW breeze, 16c.

A quickish evening visit along the South Shore and Slope (try saying that after ten pints!) and apart from a fine 'sumplum' Dunlin not too much to report. The usual suspects in Lapwings, Little Ringed Plovers and Oystercatchers still on site as were the resident Common Terns.

Some Yellow Wagtails still remain around the shorelines and a pair feeding together up on the Top Field south of the Farmhouse, where incidentally the Gadwalls could also be found tonight on the pond.On leaving a single Little Owl was seen flying along Back Brook.

As for the site itself groundwork has already started on the last large part of flood meadow to the north east of the site, the riverside field is bordered by the Ouse and Front Brook that contains the bridge over to Castlethorpe. Yet another area to watch...

Tuesday 10th May 2011 - Evening

18:00 > 19:00
Cloud, westerly breeze, 16c

Mayfly were rising along the Ouse but not in the numbers seen last year whilst overall another quiet day at the site. A lone Common Redshank along the south shores was a newcomer and along a Common Sandpiper and the usual Little Ringed Plovers, Oystercathers & Lapwings made up the wader contingent. Two Little Egrets were on site and as happened last summer there has been a gradual build up of Grey Heron in the area with at least six present tonight. A record number of nine Mute Swans were also in the inlet.

Two Common Tern, and i'm guessing now its the same pair, were again resting on the spit inbetween hunting forays along the Ouse. Along the Ouse itself both Reed and Sedge Warbler could be heard.

Back on the main body of water the first Great Crested Grebe in a while while the odd Yellow Wagtail was still noted around the islands as were a handful of Linnets, the remainder of the large flocks of a month or so ago.

And finally on leaving I got to hear a few short bursts from the male Tree Sparrow in lower Central Field. I'm not a lister by any means but another nice 'tick' for me at the site.

Monday 9th May per NBBR

From SiNich

A lovely evening at Manor Farm once again produced a quality wader , unfortunately its stay was brief ! As I never managed to relocate the GREY PLOVER after initially seeing it on the Southern Shore (viewed from the river footpath )


Also present were a Common Sandpiper , 3 LRP , 15+ Yellow Wagtails , 4 Sedge Warblers , 10 Swift , 100+ Sand Martin , 2 Common Tern , 3 Whitethroat , 1 Reed Warbler , 4 Lapwing, 1 CUCKOO and 1 Willow Warbler

Thurday 5th May 2011 per Bucksbirders

From Simon G

Got to the site at about 6:20 and had a good wander round. Still didn't

catch up with the Wood Sandpiper, but saw:

Good numbers of Lapwing and LRP
2 Oystercatchers
1 Greenshank
6 Common Tern (2 on reserve, others fishing over canal and campsite lake)
1 Yellow Wagtail
2 Cuckoo (heard)
Also a bonus pair of Greenfinch and pair of Bullfinch seen by the canal

All in all a good morning, if not quite the wader-fest I was hoping for!

Thursday 5th May 2011 - Evening

Broken cloud, sunny spells, west breeze, 17c.
17:30 > 18:30
A case of after the Lord Mayors show after yesterdays waderfest (see below) but still the odd bird of note.

A lone Greenshank, possibly yesterdays bird, was the highlight waderwise with a Common Sandpiper, the usual Lapwings and Little Ringed Plovers and four Oystercatchers making up the numbers.

A handful of Yellow Wagtails can still be found popping out of the vegatation along the shoreline whilst two Common Tern, the Herring Gull pair and a group of five Lesser Black Backed Gulls over were also of note. Out on the water the ten strong Tufted Duck flock look like they might be settled in for the summer while restless Gadwall pair still remain.

Along the riverside, both Greater Spotted and Green Woodpecker were noted as were Treecreepers. The stars of the day though were two male Common Pheasant going hell for leather at each other at the waters edge in the inlets, even at times ending up in the drink. She must have worth it!

Wednesday 4th May 2011 - Evening



17:30 > 19:00
Sun, warm, 16c

I've been walking this site for a few years now, way before the digging even started but tonight for an hour and a half it was as good as its ever been or indeed ever likely too.

Alerted earlier in the day that two Bar Tailed Godwits were on site, and later a lone Greenshank, I headed down to the Farm after work. In the first bay at the end of Central Field was the Wood Sandpiper that has been on site since the weekend and nearby the Greenshank picked about in the shallows.

A call from Simon N that the Barwits were in the inlet and I headed off noting two Common Sandpiper and a single Green Sandpiper in the bay to the south west end. The Barwits were as Simon described, stunning and well viewable from the Riverside Walk (alas they flew east at 7:00pm). Also along the inlet four Oystercatcher, increasing to five by the time I left.

Little Ringed Plovers were everywhere, one very probable (and there may be more) Ringed Plover was amongst them. Just as I was leaving 'sumplum' Dunlin was found in the south west bay.

Including the usual Lapwings that makes ten species of wader at the Farm tonight and at a sight where not so long ago your heart would skip a beat if you saw a lone Lapwing fly over.

Away from the waders, five Little Egret were seen, including two over heading to roost whilst a handful of Yellow Wagtail can still be found dotted about the islands.

And finally to cap it all the first Swifts i've seen at the site this year darted across the fields as I wandered off after a somewhat surreal hour or so.

Wednesday 4th May 2011 per Bucksbirders

From Simon G

Didn't connect with the Wood Sand, but saw:

at least 4 LRP and 3 Little Egret
2 Oystercatcher
2 Bar-Tailed Godwit

Lots of swallows, House and Sand Martins (my first sand of the year!)

Lots of House Martins coming down to the ground to collect mud for nesting.

Will aim for an early morning visit next time to avoid the heat haze on the
scope!

Wednesday 4th May 2011 per NBBR

From Chris G

And the Wood Sandpiper still at Manor Farm, Old Wolverton this morning at 6:30

Monday 2nd May 2011 per Si Nich

After a disappointing morning , we decided to head to Manor Farm , a Male Bullfinch greeted us at the car park and a Little Owl was calling from the pollarded willows. After scanning the first areas of open water and turning up a few LRP's , we mov through to the 2nd field along and scanned the spit - WOOD SANDPIPER ! all the previous 2 hours agony was washed away ! Cracking bird in full summer plumage. Also on the pits were a further 4 LRP's ( must be up to 6 on the site ) 1 Common Sandpiper , 5+ Lapwings and 2 Common Terns


Whilst walking back we came across a fantastic singing TREE SPARROW , which is probably rarer in North Bucks then Wood Sand !

Monday 2nd May 2011 per NBBR

From Bob F

Wood Sandpiper still at manor farm along with 2 common sand and lrp

And from Peter A

The Wood Sandpiper & Greenshank were still at Manor Farm just after 5.00pm

Sunday 1st May 2011 per NBBR

From Rob H

At Manor Farm late afternoon, 2 Greenshank remain. Also 2 Common Sand, 5 LRP, 2 Oycs, and a Red Kite over east.

Sunday 1st May 2011 - Morning via Text

From SiNich

3 Greenshank @ Manor Farm per Andy H

Saturday 30th April 2011 - Evening per NBBR

Still on site...



From Chris C
MF a tranquil evening spot among the lambs in contrast with bank holiday
mayhem just across the river.

The Blue-headed wagtail (Channel Wagtail - Chris G) still present with at least 6 'flavissima'. Also
2 - 3 LRP (one poss Ringed), 3 Green sand which flew off N, 1 Common sand,
1 sumplum Dunlin, 3 Lapwing. Plenty of Swallows and distant martins, prob Sand.

Saturday 30th April 2011 - Afternoon

Still about...



13:00 > 16:30
Warm, sunny, strong NNE wind, 18c.

Not intending to visit the Farm today but the of a 'sumplum' Dunlin found by Simon N earlier in the day tempted me down and a most enjoyable afternoon was spent on a warm but very windy spring afternoon that had more than a feel of true summer about it and so much to rport, where do I start?
Well the Dunlin was still on site in the south bay at the eastern end of the main body of water but a further pair one in summer and one in transitional plumage werte also found in the inlet as was a Common Sandpiper.

Little Ringed Plover numbers appear to has risen again given how easy they were to find especially viewed from the River Ouse side amongst them was also a single bright and lively  Ringed Plover. A pair of Oystercatcher were also about as were three Little Egrets. The usual Lapwings were also dotted about.

Alongside five Common Tern two Arctic Terns dropped in late afternoon. A White Wagtail and a handful of Yellow Wagtails can still be found on site. Out on the water was the loser in love drake Common Shelduck which left the small flock of Tufted Duck that remain well alone. Five Mute Swans was a high for the main body and half a dozen Canada Geeese look like they've finally settled in for the duration.

A pair of Common Buzzards made the most of the wind and thermals and a Little Owl could be found in the small copse at the eastern end of the Ridge.

Bird of the day though a Hobby, who not only hunted at close quarters along Back Brook but put in several strafing runs along the channels between the islands out on the water at breakneck speed.

Butterflies were out in force battling the gale, Common Blues along the approach road, Red Admirals, Peacocks and various 'Whites' along Back Brook whilst Speckled Wood and Brimstone could be found along the Ouse.

All in all a good day...

30th April via Text from SiNich (9:30am)

Sum Plum DUNLIN at Manor Farm.

Friday 29th April 2011 - Early Afternoon

13:00 > 13:30
Overcast, humid, 15c but coll NE wind at times.

Another quickish visit. Apart from the usual suspects at least three probably more Yellow Wagtails still found on site, popping out from the island vegatation. Apart from that a Little Owl making alarm calls (for whatever reason) was the only other thing of interest.

Thursday 28th April 2011 - Morning

9:30 > 10:00
Sun, NE wind, 14c

A quick 'ten minute birder' visit.

Not too much to report. The pair of Herring Gull that shouldn't be there, are. A pair of Common Terns rest on the spit. A single Little Egret in the shallows while out on the water the loser in love (see yesterday) drake Common Shelduck remains.

As for waders the usual Lapwings & Little Ringed Plovers whilst the only other bird of note was a female Sparrowhawk over.

Wednesday 27th April 2011 - Afternoon



14:30 > 16:00
Sun, broken cloud, NE breeze, 15c.

Or what a difference a day makes part two as temperatures pick up again but still a cool easterly keep them down a notch or two.

Just when we thought it was safe to go back in the water the horror returns and threefold. Yes three Common Shelduck on site today, a female and two males, that spent most of the afternoon chasing each other rather than worrying off the other wildfowl but on todays showing the remaining Tufted Duck and Gadwall have given up the ghost for yet another year.



Also on site in no particulae order. Two 'Commic' Terns, the usuals of Lapwing & Little Ringed Plover, a single Little Egret a pair of Herring Gull (and yes I know they shouldn't) and not as many Martins as yesterday but a handful of Sand Martins are endeavouring to nest where thirty or so pairs were successful last year.

Oddly today no sign of Yellow Wagtails.

Tuesday 26th April 2011 - Afternoon



13: 00 > 15:00
Cloudy, NE wind and a cool 12c.

What a difference a day makes! Shorts yesterday, today a shirt, fleece and windcheater and still feeling the cold.

The birds didn't look much like performing either. Plenty of Yellow Wagtails still about but with no sun and me being a bit early there was no sign of the Channel Wagtail. Thats not to say its not there just hard to track as they, the Yellow Wags, flitted around the shoreline and islands.

Around the margins the usual Lapwings and Little Ringed Plovers but Oystercatcher numbers up to four in the inlet. Down in the new workings a lone Shelduck has returned but left the eight Tufted Ducks and a handful of Mallards alone on the main water.

A walk along the Ouse to see if any Reed or Sedge Warblers had returned yet proved fruitless but a couple of pair of Reed Bunting were seen. In the water of the river itself noticable was the number of large Chub in the shallow gravel beds supposedly spawning. Over the Castlethorpe Path bridge, a good area usually for warblers the first Common Whitethroat was seen as were Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler, as also an area to keep an eye on in the next few weeks.

Sand Martins and House Martins dominated the skies with circa 120 combined including a times sizable groups landing to hug the shoreline for a rest, A handful of Swallows, mostly over the river and the last remaining section of Flood Meadow were also on site. Two Common Terns also dropped in.

And the first breeding success, a female Mallard led eight sizable ducklings on a foray round the water before off to hide once more in the ever growing vegatation.

And finally on leaving a single Little Egret flew in while a pair of returning Mistle Thrush could be found in the usual area on the top field.

Saturday 23rd April 2011 - Roundup per NBBR

From SiNich
2 LRP's , 1 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Swallows , 4 Sand Martins, 2 Common Terns

From Chri C
At least 20 yellow wags at Manor Fm tonight. Feeding on improved grass

where they are not supposed to be--possibly an emergence of winged ants.
The blue-headed individual was showing well. Can anyone please confirm it
is indeed M. flava "flava" summer male?

Friday 22nd April 2011 - Rob N tunes in...

Rob paid a visit to MF to catch up with the 'Channel' today.

Report here!

Thursday 21st April 2011 - Evening



18:00 > 19:30
Sun, warm, 23c, East breeze.

The big news is that on taking and studying pictures of the Blue Headed Wagtail that has been on site since Saturday its not a Blue Head at all but a hybrid Channel Wagtail (Yellow & Blue Head cross). See pics in post below. Again feeding with circa 40 Yellow Wagtails and a handful of Pieds on the Western Slope.

Also on site the odd sight of two half submeged Common Terns off Western Spit, it must have been a long hot journey. The usual Lapwings and Little Ringed Plovers were also in attendance as was a pair of intense squabbling Oystercatcher. A lone Common Sandpiper picked about on the South Shore.

A few Gadwall and Tufted Duck continue to hang about while three late Little Egrets flew over to roost. A Little Owl continued to call from the trees along Back Brook till disturbed by cattle whilst the first Hobby of the summer hawked over water for a time.

And as I was leaving a passage of half a dozen Lesser Black Backed Gulls headed east.

**Re the Channel Wagtail, looking back to last years records it (or one) may well have been here twelve months ago. See the posting from 23rd April 2010. **

Channel Wagtail Pics

Hot off the press, taken this evening, probably have better versions when I scan through all tomorrow. Click for larger version.



Wednesday 20th April 2011 - Early Evening

17:15 > 17:45

Warm, sunny 23c.

Before heading off on the 'Great Little Heron Hunt' (it's a long story) I took a quick look in at the Farm before heading east. The Blue Headed Wagtail continues to show well on the western slope alongside around 40 other Yellow Wagtails, quite a sight in the bright sunshine. Hopefully the weather, and the BHW, will hold for some pictures tomorrow.

Out on the water as per usual, two Little Egrets in the shallows plus the usual Little Ringed Plovers and Lapwings. Oystercatchers were notable for the number, one in the margins whilst a piping flock of four flew over. A pair of Common Tern continue to prospect the islands.

Tuesday 19th April 2011 - Late Afternoon

16:30 > 17:30
Sunny, warm, 19c

A quiet day at the Farm. Yellow Wagtails still dominate but failed to locate the Blue Head though best of luck to the two birders hunting it out when I left. Being slightly earlier today its clear that early evening when the YW's tend to bunch more to 'graze' is the best time to view.

Out around the water the usual Little Ringed Plovers and Lapwings but no other waders seen. Two Little Egrets fed around the margins and a pair of Common Terns rested on one of the islands before hunting along the river but otherwise not a lot!

Monday 18th April 2011 - Evening

18:15 > 19:00
Sun, odd hazy cloud, SE breeze, 15c.

The striking Blue Headed Wagtail continues at the site, feeding this evening on the slopes of the far west field, just past the farm buildings, with an amazing 34 other Yellow Wagtials. When you consider the ones on the island too a conservative estimate must be around 50 YW's in the vicinity.

Nothing much else of note this evening, the usual Little Ringed Plovers and four resident Lapwing but the only other wader seen was the lone Oystercatcher. A pair of Little Egret flew over on the way to the Linford Roost.

A pair of Greylag Geese have joined the two papirs of Canadians on site.

Sunday 17th April 2011 - Northern Wheatear

Via text from Cliff on site at 17:15

Northern Wheatear up on Ridge, circa 20 Yellow Wagtails in Central Field.

Saturday 16th April 2011 - Evening

18:30 > 19:30
Sunny, warm, calm, 14c

Not intending to call in today but news of a Greenshank on site via a text from SiNich (see posting below) I called in on the off chance. No sign of the wader but the trip was worth the effort for a cracking Blue Headed Wagtail.

As with last year as things start to warm up the Wagtails leave the workings to

feed up on the slopes amongst the sheet in the afternoon and early evening.

In a flock of circa 20 Yellow Wagtails and 30 Pieds was not only the White
Wagtail seen recently but a very distinctive Blue Head. Much more clear cut than
last years birds the head is a striking one shade, but not much, darker than sky
blue and i'll leave it to the experts if its a 'channel'. It was giving views down to 20 or so feet.

For those intending to view you could spend an age trying to pick it out of the
numerous YW's out on the islands so i'd suggest waiting till mid/late afternoon
and looking on the slope in the far western field (between Ridge path and main body of water.)
This evening I just stood at the five bar gate to the western side of the central field and the birds obliged.

Also on site the uniform grey Black Tailed Godwit lingers as do numerous Little Ringed Plovers's, an Oystercatcher, a Common Redshank and a lone Little Egret. One of the Little Owls has taken up residence above Godwit Corner, talking of which none of the four Godwits this week have been anywhere near.

Saturday 16th April 2011 - Per NBBR

From Roy C

A lovely afternoon at Manor Farm saw my 1st Swallows of the year. A single

Oystercatcher with Lapwing and a solitary Greenshank. Down by the sand mountain
were approx 50 Sand Martins, & a single male Pheasant. 2 Common Terns dropped
in, & my 1st ever Yellow Wagtails rounded off a good day. 1 Peacock butterfly
too.

Friday 15th April 2011 - Afternoon/Evening

15:00 > 20:00 (on and off)
Broken cloud, some sun, west breeze, humid, 15c.

An afternoon and evening broken up by visits back to work garnered the following.

The uniform grey Black Tailed Godwit is still on site as is a new arrival in a single Ringed Plover which a couple of the numerous Little Ringed Plovers were doing the best to drive off the site. Four Lapwing still holding fast while three Little Egrets fished in the shallows.

Two Common Sandpiper and a pair of Green Sandpiper and a lone Oystercatcher were also present whilst Yellow Wagtail numbers continue to increase with 20+ birds now on site along the shorelines and hopping up from the vegation on the islands and large spit.

Overhead at least four Common Buzzards were about but the noticable passage above was of Terns, a dozen or so seen heading north during the afternoon with briefly a pair of Common Terns dropping in to prospect.

On the duck from pairs of Gadwall and Tufted Duck remain whilst one of the Little Owls was as active as I've seen one in daylight hours around the farm buildings.

And finally an odd Small White butterfly with what appeared to be perfectly cut small black crescents on its wings.

Thursday 14th April 2011 - Evening

17:30 > 19:00 Cloudy, calm, 12c

No sign of the Godwits that have been present the last couple of days but with a bit of patience and a long walk the following was seen.

Waders in abundance, at least six Little Ringed Plovers now on site, one, probably two, Common Sandpiper, two Green Sandpiper, six Lapwing and two Oystercatcher down on the site while three others flew over 'piping'. Just a single Little Egret this evening and ducks down to a handful of Mallards and just one Gadwall pair. Two pair of Canada Geese have taken up residence though.

Yellow Wagtail numbers continue to build and you can get a real idea of how many there are by walking along the River Ouse as most frequent the area between the path and the main body of water at any given time. At a conservative guess around 20 along with double that number of Pied Wagtail including a pristine White Wagtail which may not be alone.

The Linnet flock continues to entertain flitting about in the newly planted area on the North Shore whilst out over the water more Sand Martins than you could shake a stick at, a few House Martins and the odd Swallow or two.

The Little Owl could again be heard calling from the trees along Back Brook.

Also airborne this evening, three hot air balloons, summer must be on the horizon...

Weds 13th April 2011 Evening - Godwits remain per NBBR

From Rob H

Indeed, they (the three Islandica BLACK TAILED GODWITS) just popped out from behind the eastern spit (where the vegetation is getting tall), and then moved to the northern shore.


Also 2 Common Sand, 1 Green Sand, 5 LRP, 1 Oyc, and 4 Lapwing (looks like at least one territory on site).

Plenty of wagtails too - c50 Pied, 1m White Wag, and c10 Yellow Wag. 100+ Sand Martins were over the caravan site.

Tuesday 12th April 2011 - Evening

17:30 > 19:00
Sun with broken cloud, NW breeze, 14c.

Three Black Tailed Godwits were the highlight of the evening, indeed the highlight of migration so far. Found curled up dozing in the shallows just off the West Spit initially it was hard to get an ID but eventually a side on view showed one moving into summer plumage to confirm. Eventually they woke and did a couple of circuits of the site but then settled to feed along the North Shore where they still were when I left at seven.

Also on site an increasing number of Little Ringed Plover as Rob mentioned at weekend. I saw at least five at one time but suspect the number is more given the ease which they were found. Other waders present were four Lapwing, and singles of Common Redshank, Oystercatcher and Green Sandpiper. Little Egret numbers were up to five.

Yellow Wagtails still well represented with around a dozen frequenting the scrub on the islands and the shoreline alongside probably at least double that number of Pied Wagtails. Also out on the island the increasing Linnet flock now around circa 20 which along with a building Goldfinch 'charm' attacted a female Sparrowhawk on a sharp fly by.

As for the ducks just single pairs of Gadwall and Tufted Duck remain.

Rob N's Manor Farm visit...

Can be found via link below

Birding North Bucks & Beyond

Saturday 9th April 2011 - Lunchtime

13:00 > 14:00
Sunny, warm though cool easterly breeze at times. 19c

A chance to make the most of sun for an hour, eat my lunch and watch the world go by.
Still a few Yellow Wagtails dotted about though not as active or it appears as numerous as yesterday.
Sand Martins continue to prospect the new workings. Out on the water at least three Little Ringed Plovers remain as do a pair of Green Sandpiper, a Common Redshank, an Oystercatcher and a couple of Lapwing.

Four Little Egrets also in the area. Gadwall now down to two pairs but a flock of 11 Tufted Duck dropped in on leaving. Bar a pair of Mallard these are the only ducks now on site.

A pair of Herring Gull were in situ for the duration giving the resident crows what for whilst overhead a couple of Sparrowhawk and three Common Buzzards were making the most of the thermals.

Still a good showing of butterflies including my first 'Blues' of the summer along the approach road.

Friday 8th April 2011 - Afternoon

14:00 > 18:00
Waem, sunny, 19c.

A leisurely afternoon spent in the valley and spring really appears to have sprung with a big unflux of Yellow Wagtails on site. At one time a group of eleven together on one of the islands with probably around the same dotted about in ones and twos. Just like last year numbers will no doubt build in the coming days so its all on the look out for the Blue Head and the elusive 'channel'.

Also still on site three Little Ringed Plovers though the single was very flighty and for some reason harrying bot Pied and Yellow Wagtails in flight at every opportunity. Other waders on site, singles of Oystercatcher and Green Sandpiper and a pair of Common Redshank. Four Lapwing also put in an appearance while three Little Egret were also in the vicinity.

Duck numbers are down once more, just a single pair of Teal and six Gadwall but the drake Shelduck put in a late appearance so perhaps not suprising. Four Mute Swans also battled for supremacy over the main water while a secretive pair of Canada Geese look like they are setting up home.

Away from the water a couple of dozen Sand Martin were prospecting the north facing banking in the new workings for possible nest site while a handful of Swallow and a House Martin or two were noted. A pir of Reed Bunting along Back Brook while three squabbling Bullfinch and singing Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were along the Canal section.

Butterfiles were out in force with Orange Tip, Red Admiral, Brimstone and Comma all noted in numbers while an odd unidentified 'White' flitted about too.

Wednesday 6th April per NBBR

From Paul M

Hi all, warm sunshine but blustery on the slope over looking the gravel workings this lunch time.
Highlights: 1 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Green Sandpipers, 1 Redshank, 1 LRP, 1 Oyc, 3 Sand Martins and 5 Linnets. Plus a Meadow Pipit feeding briefly on the spit, hard to make out at first because of the scope shake!

From Bob F

At manor farm about 15:30 (4)yellow wagtail on the island and 2 red kites over also heading in a westerly direction.

Tuesday 5th April 2011 - Evening

18:00 > 18:30
Dull, damp, west breeze, 12c.

A quiet(ish) evening at the Farm. Waders were the order of the day with three Little Ringed Plovers, two Common Redshank and singles of Green Sandpiper and Oystercatcher. Four redhead Goosander came in to roost while there are still small numbers of Wigeon (4) Gadwall (5) & Tufted Duck (2) about. Over the water a pair of Swallow were the only other birds of note.

Monday 4th April 2011 - Lunchtime per NBBR

From Paul M

I popped into Manor Farm at lunchtime, three Yellow Wagtails were feeding on the island in the middle of the pits. Along with 2 Green Sandpipers, 1 LRP, 1 Oyc, a Swallow and 2 Sand Martins.

http://www.northbuckswildlife.blogspot.com/

Monday 4th April 2011 - Morning per NBBR

From Martin K

Called in at Manor Farm for 15 minutes this morning. Plenty going on.
Best of all 2 YELLOW WAGTAIL dropped in around 11.30. My first for the year. Also seen: 4 LRP, 3 Green Sandpiper, 1 Oyc, 2 Redshank, 1 Little Egret. Plus 20+ Swallows and 1 Sand Martin over. Little Owl calling.

Sunday 3rd April 2011 - Evening per NBBR

From Rob H

At Manor Farm this evening, 1 male WHITE WAGTAIL amongst c40 Pieds. Also 4 LRP, 2 Green Sand, 1 each of Oyc & Redshank, 4 Wigeon, 1 Little Owl, c70 Sand Martin (mostly over Cosgrove lake), and Lucy had 1 House Martin fly by east.

Odonata Identified!

Many thanks to Graeme at Imperfect & Tense for identifying the
following (see comments at bottom of post)
Dragonflies & Damselflies of Manor Farm

Taken in August 2010

Following taken in July 2010

Link:
British Dragonfly Society

From Graeme

Chris, just bimbled onto your site and saw the odes.
If your question is still open...

Common Darter (male)


Migrant Hawker (male)


Ruddy Darter (female)


Common Darter (male)


Black-tailed Skimmers in cop


Four-spotted Chaser (male) x3??


Emperor (male)


Banded Demoiselle (male)


Common Blue Damselflies (male)

Any ode data is valuable as the BDS are preparing to publish a new atlas so you could submit your sightings to the county recorder via bucksdragonflies@googlemail.com
Regards,
Graeme


Chris G said...

Many thanks Graeme!

I'll do an updated post.

Thanks

Chris

Weds 30th March 2011 Per NBBR (SiNich)

Manor Farm

This place is looking AWESOME !!! really needs checking daily if at all possible

Tonight had the following
3 GOOSANDERS into roost ( male + 2 females ) , 1 male Wigeon , 3 LITTLE RINGED
PLOVERS , 1 GREEN SANDPIPER , 7 Pied Wagtails , 1 REDSHANK , 1 OYSTERCATCHER , 1
Lapwing and 2 Herring Gulls

Sat 26th March 2011 - Evening - Per NBBR

Rob H had the following:

'Unsurprisingly, no sign of the Wheatear at MF this evening (see post below), but the waders Chris mentions (3 LRP's & 2 Green Sandpipers) were still present, and were joined by 1 Redshank and 2 Oycs.

9 Goosander roosted on the lake, and there were about 35 Pied Wags on site too.'

Chris G replied:

Perhaps more precise directions needed for the Wheatear, if its still there, as
its a virtually site long road and a bit of a trek from the normal viewing
places. Best place to view is just to the west side of the 'finished' mounds of
gravel down by the viaduct where the diverted path rejoins Back Brook. The
vegatation free bankings on north side of road between the road itself and the
silt beds are where it was, maybe is. Was flitting about there for 20 or so
minutes this afternoon and still there when I wandered back to the main waters.

Saturday 26th March 2011 - Morning & Afternoon

9:30 > 10:30 then 13:00 > 15:00

A bit of a mixed bag weather wise, mist then sun this morning, then this afternoon sun then cloud with cool easterly building and spitting rain. 12c

Another returnee was the highlight of the day in a Northern Wheatear, more of which later.
A morning walk round the site (hello Rebecca!) was on the whole quiet. A couple of Little Ringed Plovers, a rather cosy pair of Green Sandpipers and a drake Goosander through were the only real birds of note.

No sign of any Shelduck at all today and the remaining small Wigeon, Gadwall, Teal and Tufted Duck flocks enjoyed a hassle free time in the morning sun. A quick look at the Ouse but i'm holding out little hope for the Kingfishers using the Iron Trunk to Pebble Beach stretch this year due to clearance, here hoping they reamain in the stronghold downstrean towards the east of the site.

Coming back along the Canal a lone Chiffchaff was making such an effort to be heard he even dropped down from the tree tops just above our heads giving it his all.

After a couple of hours of family business I had some time to kill so revisted the site once more early afternoon. Getting dropped off at the Haversham end I walked through gravel processing area when something caught my eye seemingly scurrying up the gravel and mud banking along the road past the Silt Beds. It was in all its glory a lightly plumaged male Northern Wheatear, the first of the year at the Farm and beating last years first bird by six days.

Also seen on second visit a couple of Little Egret, a small flock of around eight or mine Meadow Pipit and all three squabbling Little Ringed Plovers together at one time.

Thursday 24th March 2011 - Evening

16:30 > 17:30
Sun, 15c, calm but building cool east breeze.

Little Ringed Plovers return! Three found this afternoon. Firstly a very flighty single bird that did several circuits of the site before settling on one of the new islands. When I moved to the central field (the one directly north of the farmhouse) to get a better look two more dropped into the area of exposed mud and small bay right at bottom of this field. First bird remained flighty but other two looked settled by the time I left.

Other waders on site, two Oystercatcher, three Green Sandpiper and a lone Lapwing. Two Little Egrets also in the vicinity.

Just one of the Shelducks on site today, seven Goosander and the usual handfuls of Wigeon, Teal & Tufted Duck. Gadwall numbers have increased thought to 14.

Migrants evident in the skies too with two distant Swallows heading north.

On the butterfly front a single Red Admiral flitted about Back Brook.

22nd March 2011 per NBBR

From Rob H

At a quiet Manor Farm this evening, 15 Goosanders roosted, including 2ad males and 2imm males. Also 2 Oycs, 2 Shelduck and 1 Green Sand. With a scattering of waders in surrounding counties I thought the place might turn up trumps, but alas no. Still, early days yet, and with the way the site looks, it's only a matter of time.


Also 6 small bats, presumably Pipistrelle, and somewhat distantly, a much larger one, looked Noctule-sized. Paul, what large bats are out this early in the season?

Paul M replied

Your large bat does sound like a Noctule. With the milder weather and more insects in the air bat season is open. Had my first Common Pipistrelle over the back garden on Monday evening. Will start checking the local Noctule roost soon.


Regards Manor Farm, the farm/office buildings do house lots of bats. Next time you're back at The Manor have a look at the special bat boxes along the outside of the buildings above the foot path.

Tuesday 22nd March 2011 - Evening

17:30 > 18:00
Broken cloud, calm 14c.

A quiet evening at the Farm. The Shelduck pair remain as do the small pockets of Wigeon, Teal, Tufted Duck & Gadwall. Seven Goosander all redheads rested together on one headland. Two Lapwing were the first for a couple of weeks but the only other wader seen was a single Green Sandpiper. Other birds of note a Little Egret over heading to the Linford roost whilst one of the local Little Owls was perched in its usual tree till mobbed by six rather unsporting Magpies.

As for the site itself Back Brook's water level is now down to a deoth where flow through is no more and the usual summer pools, a magnet for insect life, are now forming and should remain barring an April flood.

And finally another sign of spring, the first lambs bounding around the top field when I left.

Saturday 19th March 2011

12:30 > 13:00
Sunny, warm, calm, circa 14c

A quick walkthrough on a warm lunchtime, a couple of groups were even picnicing, on my way elsewhere and really with the aim of relocating yesterdays Cetti. No luck but along the same stretch of hedgerow, an area thats probably greatly underwatched if watched at all between the Grand Union Canal and Back Brook, there were at least three Chiffchaffs and a couple of returnee Meadow Pipits.

Out on the water, fairly quiet, the only waders being a pair of Green Sandpiper. Two Little Egret also picked about in the margins. On the duck front the Shelduck pair remain but dozed in the midday sun so a chance for a rest for the other wildfowl present 10 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 8 Tufted Duck and a pair of Teal.

By number Gulls dominated proceedings though with around 250 around the water, on the whole Commons and Black Headers with no larger or 'odd' gulls noted.

Overhead a Sparrowhawk held wheeling competions with the pair of Common Buzzards making most use of the warm air and a Little Owl shot out from the pollarded Willows to the far west end of Back Brook.

And along the approach road on leaving a fair smattering of Brimstone butterflies showed that maybe spring is about to be sprung.

Manor Farm joins the Cetti's Club

Not mentioned in todays earlier report (see below) because I wanted to trawl through some field guides, the PC based BWP, British Birds etc to clarify the identification of a bird i'm not exactly familiar with. While following the Chiffchaff mentioned below anothe partially obscured brownish bird caught the eye skulking low in the hedgerow. Just really catching a bit of brown back at first I thought Robin and was about to dismiss it (sorry Robin) when it moved into clearer view and was an altogether different bird. I initially thought Cetti's but wasn't 100% sure of ID hence the last hours or so of study and this late post to confirm Cetti's Warbler, a new bird at the site. Now if only we could get it to sing...

Friday 18th March 2011 - Afternoon

14:00 > 16:00
Cloudy breaking to sunshine, cool nort west breeze at times, 7c.

A quieter day at the Farm with no sign of yesterdays Dunlin. The pair of Oystercatchers and at least two Green Sandpiper remain though. The Shelduck pair still up to their antics and i've noticed they are masters at clearing the water of other ducks by driving all else high up then circling underneath to judge where the flock will land to start the whole cycle off again. 'Rare' birds they may be but I can't help thinking, as I have in the last two summers, they are a right royal pain in the bum we could do without. Numbers of Wigeon, Tufted Duck diminish further, Gadwall numbers holding steady while Teal seem to have vacated completely. Two Crows were picking over what looked like a dead drake Tufted Duck carcass before one of the Common Buzzards claimed it might well have been a casualty of this Shelduck agression, well maybe.

Elsewhere an early, or maybe overwintering, Chiffchaff was found in the hedgerow tailing off from Back Brook to the west, two Treecreepers also in the is area.

And work is now apace again at the site. Tree or hedge planting has gone on along a great swathe of the north bank while probably more importantly the last large field of flood meadow (the one that contains the bridge over the Ouse to Castlethorpe) has been fenced off with just the riverside walk now accessible. Downside, no more walks along Front Brook to the Silt Beds, upside it also keeps an increasing numbers of dog walkers away from what was a sensitive breeding area last year. Whether this is to contain cattle or sheep for a further season or the next phase of gravel extraction remains to be seen.

And lastly a sure sign of spring in increasing numbers of blossom laden trees anf hedgerow along Back Brook.

Earlier in the day Lee Evans called in and reported the following via NBBR

MANOR FARM WORKINGS, OLD WOLVERTON (NORTH BUCKS)
No sign of yesterday's Dunlin flock nor Green Sandpipers but a pair of
Oystercatchers, pair of Common Shelducks and 7 migrant Pied Wagtails; 28
Redwings flew NE.

Thursday 17th March 2011 - Evening

17:30 >18:15
Hazy setting sunshine, slight north breeze, 9c

A mini waderfest at the Farm tonight with a small tightly packed flock of six Dunlin. All still in winter plumage they moved around as a unit picking about in the shallows. Quite a sight and a record number for the species at MF. Also present pairs of both Green Sandpiper and Oystercatcher.

The Shelduck pair remain as do eleven Goosander including two drakes, other duck numbers were just a handful of Wigeon, Gadwall and Tufted Duck. Wigeon numbers down by at least half so I'd put that down to the Shelduck driving them off the water.

Only other bird of note a late Little Egret over but my first Bat in a while was seen flitting about the farm buildings as I left.

Tuesday 15th March 2011 - Evening

17:30 > 18:00
Dull, overcast, light easterly breeze, 9c.

A fleeting flock of nine Golden Plover were the highlight before heading off east as the light fell. Also representing the wader fraternity two Oystercatchers remain as do at least three Green Sandpiper.


As Rob H reported yesterday the (or a) Shelduck pair have returned for the third year and set about their usual ethnic cleansing of any other wildfowl on the water. Despite this a mini influx of ducks this evening with five Gadwall, three Teal, seven Tufted Duck as well as a couple of Pochard and the usual dozen or so Wigeon. Goosander numbers back up to twelve including two drakes. Two Mute Swans also put in an appearance.

14th March 2011 - Per NBBR

From Rob H

A reasonably interesting day in north Bucks.


At Manor Farm this morning (which btw is looking very suitable for waders, a ray of hope amongst the degredation of the traditional, once reliable sites), 1 Dunlin, 2 Green Sand, 2 Shelduck, 12 Wigeon and best of all a vocal Tree Sparrow in the dead trees on the south shore. Maybe it was looking for prospective nest sites.

Friday 11th March 2011 - Mid Afternoon

14:30 >15:00
Cloud, SW wind, 12c.

A quiet day at the site, just a single Green Sandpiper and three Goosanders of note.

A flock of circa 50 gulls, a split between Black Headed and Common were noticable for the eye catching summer plumage just about every bird is in. A small influx of around a dozen Pochard the only new arrivals, elswhere the Wigeon flock still graze.

Two Kestrels around the site were the first in a few months and with one being mobbed by around eight or nine Pied Wagtails and warned off I wonder if they'll hang about ;)

Thursday 10th March - Evening

17:15 > 18:15
Sun, strong gusty westerly, 9c

A very early Sand Martin (beating last years first by eight days) was not only the highlight of the day but also hopefully a sign of better things to come. The single bird headed into the reserve from almost due south (suprise, suprise) at 17:30ish then over to the north side of the main area of the site where it was still quartering over the water at dusk.

Elsewhere the pair of Oystercatcher remain as do three Green Sandpiper but just a single lonesome Lapwing today. Eleven Goosander, one drake, continue to frequesnt the site as does the small Wigeon flock. In with the small pocket of Mallard a single drake Pochard was made to fell unwelcome however much he tried to join the party.

Noticable too was the number of Pied Wagtails, around 25 to 30 out on the new islands at any one time, a supect White Head was amongst them but the fading light wasn't good enough to make a positive ID.

Over at dusk was a Little Egret no doubt heading for the Linford roost and a flushed Little Owl along the Ridge on my way home closed the day.

Tuesday 8th March 2011 - Evening

17:15 > 17:30
Sun (then set), cold westerly, 7c.

A quick visit and much the same fare as lately. Two Oystercatchers remain as does one Green Sandpiper.
Out on the water five Goosander and a dozen Wigeon, and thats your lot!

Friday 4th March 2011 - Afternoon

14:30 > 15:30
Sun, calm 6c

Three Oystercatchers were the highlight of a perimeter walk around the site. A constant pair and later a single picking around in the ever expanding mud. Not to be outdone three Green Sandpiper present too this afternoon. Elsewhere in and around the water a lone Little Egret and a dozing group of around 50 gulls, mostly Commons but with a couple of Lesser Black Backed and a Herring thrown in.

As for wildfowl no Goosander today but the steady flock of around 15 Wigeon still grazes while on Back Brook a group of six Teal his themselves away.

Away from the water a hadful of Siskins were found with a pair of Yellowhammer and a building flock of winter thrush, mostly Fieldfare were out on the flood meadow.

Thursday 3rd March 2011 - Evening

17:15 > 17:45
Cloudy, calm, cold, very cold, 2c

A brief visit as the light faded. Its was a day of handfuls on the water a handful of Teal, a handful of Pochard and a handful of Wigeon, the only bird reaching over a double handful were Goosander at 11 in number.

Circa 75 Lapwing on the mud while two Green Sandpipers picked about.

Tuesday 1st March 2011 - Evening

17:15 > 17:45
Cloudy, cold, cool easterly breeze, 3c.

The weekends rain has raised water levels further and the area looks more promising than ever with a fair expanse of shallow mud waiting to be exposed, and to the west or the main body an area still being worked that resembles the type of habitat that drew in the like of LRP's & RP's last summer,

At the moment fairly quiet, Oystercatchers now number two with just a single Lapwing the only other wader seen. With a return to colder weather the Goosanders have returned with fourteen on site alongside roughly the same number of Wigeon. No other wildfowl of note.

Out of the fields a few hundred winter thrushes are gathering mostly Fieldfare but a smattering of Redwing thrown in.

Three Little Egret as darkness began to fall capped the day.

27th Feb 2011 - Bucks Birders Website

27/2 : Willow Tit : Manor Farm Quarry.


Calling and working its way along the river near the quarry.

Adam H

Friday 24th February 2011 - Afternoon.

13:30 > 15:00
Cloudy, later rain, west wind at times, a balmy 12c.

The single Oystercatcher still on site as were a couple of Common Snipe and the usual Green Sandpipers and Little Egret.

Given recent numbers suprisingly no Goosander or Lapwing today. I guess the steady rise in temeratures this week made the former think of heading further north to breeding grounds and the way the diminishing number of Wigeon (just 12 today) were feeding up I'd guess they will not be far behind. The loose Mute Swan flock up on the hill heading towards Castlethorpe has also gone, spring may indeed be in the air.

Gulls which have been sparse or non-existant over the last couple of visit were back in force today with a circa 500 strong flock arund the site. Nothing of note within, on the whole Black Headed and Common with a handful of Herring Gull.

Over on Cosgrove Lake a few dozen Tufted Duck one or two Pochard and a pair of Great Crested Grebe were on an unusually quiet water for the time of year.

Thursday 24th February 2011 - Evening

17:15 > 17:30
Sun (at last!), westerly wind increasing, 11c

Spring is in the air, not only the mild spell continuing but some sun and the first returning Oystercatcher to boot. One of the usual Green Sandpipers also seen in the vicinity as were just 8 Lapwing this evening.

Goosander numbers still high with 17 on site and 30 or so Wigeon still grazing out on the mud.

Last and probably increasingly least is the Common Buzzard, now so common and confiding i'm probably not going to include him anymore unless he does something out of the norm.

Wednesday 23rd Feruary 2011 - Evening

17:15 > 17:30
Cloudy, calm, mild at 10c

Quick look in on way home. Goosanders still dominate, now 20 on the main water. Only other birds of note, 50 resting Lapwing.

Tuesday 22nd February 2011 - Evening

17:00 > 17:30
Calm, cloudy, cool 7c

Just catching the last half hours light of the day post work. Some good areas of mud now showing, fingers crossed that things might look up after last years disruption.

Goosanders again the dominant bird, a flotilla of 18 on the main body with again two clear cut males but a handful of others having plumage that looks to be that of juvenile males. Six Common Teal the only other fowl in this area.

A lone Little Egret picked about in the margins while Lapwing numbers have built up to circa 150. The usual Common Buzzard and that was about it.

Friday 18th Feb 2011 - Afternoon

15:30 > 16:30
7c cold easterly breeze, cloud, odd flash of sun.

Goosanders again the order of the day at Manor Farm. Over 20 in the vicinity. A party of sixteen on the main body of water including just one clear cut male the rest looked to mostly female. A further five on Cosgrove Lake and two pairs on the Ouse itself.

Apart from that not a lot, the usual pair of overwintering Green Sandpipers and a single Common Buzzard were the only other things of note.

(And yes i've got a couple of months of notes to post up, nothing really of note though, watch this space)

Friday 11th February 2011 - Afternoon

Dull damp calm and a mild 11c
15:00 > 15:30

An influx of Gulls especially out feeding on the pasture with around 300 on the top field alone and amaybe double that number all told. Mostly Black Headers & Commons but with a sprinkling of Herring Gulls within.

On the water three Teal are a new addition to usual Wigeon flock, now numbering around 30 and the 11 strong flotilla of Goosander, 10 redheads and one lucky male.

Over 120 Lapwing rested till sent skywards and away west by an overflying resident Common Buzzard. Three of the overwintering Green Sandpipers were also observed.

Probably the most notable bird though were Pied Wagtails with around 20 flitting about the site. The portender of better things to come? Heres hoping...

Friday 4th February 2011 - Afternoon

15:00 > 15:10
Very strong westerly wing, gale force gusts and a mild 10c.

A very windy day in the valley and it seems everything has gone undercover for the day. After ten minutes battling it I decided to join them.

Friday 28th January 2011 - Afternoon

15:00 > 15:15
Cold, gusting NE wind, 2c.
Given the weather just a quick visit. Three Green Sandpipers observed bar a single forlorn Lapwing the only waders on site. A couple of dozen Wigeon still pick about on the mud while on the water seven Goosander (5m, 2f) represent the wildfowl. In the skies a pair of Little Egret over and the usual Common Buzzard wrapped up the day.

Friday 14th January 2011


Not a visit as such but observed from a train heading north over the Viaduct, extensive flooding in the valley, with the River Ouse over its banks in several places.

Friday 7th January 2011 - Afternoon

15:00 > 15:30
Dull, damp, calm, 6c.

First visit of the year and the first since mid-December. Back Brook has now flooded right through and is in flow, later than usual this season. Wildfowl again the centre of attention on the main body, numbers as follows, Goosander 8 (5f, 3m). Wigeon 30, Gadwall 3, Shoveler 2. Unfortunately no time to scan whats happening over the river at Cosgrove.

A pair of Green Sandpipers, there may be more, continue to overwinter.

70+ Lapwing were also resting on one of the spits as was a single Little Egret. Of interest were the remains of a Mute Swan along Back Brook with just a pair of wings remaining and feathers spread over quite a large area in a trail it looks like quite a struggle took place starting at the waters edge. You do have to ask what could have done this and discounting Fox because of the size of the prey you would have to suspect one of the dogs that 'responsible' owners let roam around the vicinity whether there are sheep in the field or not.