A GOLDCREST sang in an isolated conifer near Marks and Spencers along Banstead high street late this afternoon, not too far off dusk. For today's Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods sightings click here.
Yesterday, Kevin reported a COAL TIT singing near The Belmont still and a FIRECREST also came through on the pager as being at post 657 along the wooded footpath that day (one was also reported c.20 metres past the noticeboard on the 28th at 1.50pm).
Sunday, 31 January 2010
Saturday, 30 January 2010
30/01/2010
While waiting for the S1 bus, by the Downs a MISTLE THRUSH showed well, providing me with my 30th bird for 2010 for the Downs.
In Sutton c.80-100 PIED WAGTAILS roosted near Waterstones but the count didn't go as planned so wasn't accurate. I took a photo of the settled birds and will do an accurate count from there, soon.
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods was alright today, check out the Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods wiki for more.
In Sutton c.80-100 PIED WAGTAILS roosted near Waterstones but the count didn't go as planned so wasn't accurate. I took a photo of the settled birds and will do an accurate count from there, soon.
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods was alright today, check out the Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods wiki for more.
Friday, 29 January 2010
28/01/2010
A BULLFINCH was present at the Downs today and up to 100 JACKDAWS flew north, close to dusk. A JAY was noted and 2 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS were seen.
27/01/2010
DUNNOCK was a patch year tick for me at the Downs as was COMMON GULL, bringing me to a measly 29, this is because I have only really visited after school.
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
26/01/2010
Popped up to the golf course today, not expecting much, and that's just what I got. I can't wait for spring.
A single ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET flew over and a GREENFINCH was heard. Even commoner stuff logged included 3 BLACKBIRDS, 2 MAGPIES, 4 GREAT TITS (1 singing), 1 ROBIN, 22+ WOODPIGEONS, 2 WRENS (a belated Banstead Downs year tick, putting me on a meagre 27, I still need lots of common stuff, worst is Dunnock!) and 1 JAY.
In the local area 1+ COMMON GULL was still at Overton Park with BLACK-HEADED GULLS and a PIED WAGTAIL was in Belmont at the entrance to the Crescent. A COAL TIT sang near The Belmont pub and a CHAFFINCH was along Burdon Lane. An unknown number of ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS were heard flying over Burdon Lane.
A single ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET flew over and a GREENFINCH was heard. Even commoner stuff logged included 3 BLACKBIRDS, 2 MAGPIES, 4 GREAT TITS (1 singing), 1 ROBIN, 22+ WOODPIGEONS, 2 WRENS (a belated Banstead Downs year tick, putting me on a meagre 27, I still need lots of common stuff, worst is Dunnock!) and 1 JAY.
In the local area 1+ COMMON GULL was still at Overton Park with BLACK-HEADED GULLS and a PIED WAGTAIL was in Belmont at the entrance to the Crescent. A COAL TIT sang near The Belmont pub and a CHAFFINCH was along Burdon Lane. An unknown number of ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS were heard flying over Burdon Lane.
Monday, 25 January 2010
25/01/2010
Went over to the Downs today. Didn't see much though did get FERAL PIGEON which was a belated Banstead Downs 2010 year tick. 1 GREEN WOODPECKER showed well in the western enclosure (where the sheep have now arrived) and there were 2 JAYS, TITS included singles of BLUE and GREAT with 5-10 LONG-TAILED TITS that showed well. 1-2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over.
For now onwards I won't be putting Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods sightings on this site, they can now be found at canonsfarm.wikia.com.
For now onwards I won't be putting Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods sightings on this site, they can now be found at canonsfarm.wikia.com.
Friday, 22 January 2010
garden excitement 22/01/2010
At about 1.20 this afternoon mum alerted me to a huge number of birds in our Belmont garden, next to Banstead Downs. This included a party of LONG-TAILED and BLUE TITS. More significant, however, was a GOLDFINCH that was thinking about visiting the feeders before flying off, though I didn't see it. This species very rarely lands near the garden and if it does it never gets this far in! Also, REDWINGS very rarely come to the garden but several were feeding on the lawn for a brief period before flying off with the 60 or 70 that were lurking nearby (there was also a BLACKBIRD). Also 8 CHAFFINCHES were feeding at the bottom of the bird table and a couple more were up in the trees. Very odd! Loads of birds of species that wouldn't normally associate all staying for the same short period of time. I'm off to Manchester now! Back on Monday.
Thursday, 21 January 2010
21/01/2010
Met local birder Andrew and two birders accompanying him at the golf course today. They very soon got me onto 2 FIRECRESTS which showed well along the wooded footpath before post 657, it's been a very long time since I've seen them this near to the beginning of the footpath.
Very little else around. Along The Drive 2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS called and one flew east from Burdon Lane where one or two COAL TITS were singing and 2 JACKDAWS flew over.
A GREY WAGTAIL at Hulverstone Close this afternoon on the journey from school to the golf course also 1 or 2 PIED WAGTAILS at Overton Park where good numbers of BLACK-HEADED GULLS which included at least 1 COMMON GULL.
Very little else around. Along The Drive 2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS called and one flew east from Burdon Lane where one or two COAL TITS were singing and 2 JACKDAWS flew over.
A GREY WAGTAIL at Hulverstone Close this afternoon on the journey from school to the golf course also 1 or 2 PIED WAGTAILS at Overton Park where good numbers of BLACK-HEADED GULLS which included at least 1 COMMON GULL.
Wednesday, 20 January 2010
20/01/2010
At the golf course: 1 REDPOLL over, 5 GREAT TITS, 2 BLUE TITS, 2 ROBINS, 1 MAGPIE, 3 CARRION CROW, 8+ WOODPIGEONS, 1+ CHAFFINCH, 7 HERRING GULLS over, 1+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET over, 2 BLACKBIRDS, 1 singing SONG THRUSH.
Nearby 2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS over Belmont Park/Pastures.
Nearby 2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS over Belmont Park/Pastures.
19/01/2010
A single FIRECREST was reported on R.B.A. at 13:15 in holly in the garden between posts 678 and 1 along the wooded footpath at the golf course today but I could not locate it.
BLACKCAP was heard in Belmont today. At the Downs, at the golf course nothing special was seen. Best was 2 SONG THRUSHES . . . others noted were 2 ROBINS, 4 GREAT TITS, 1+ LONG-TAILED TIT, 2+ CHAFFINCHES, 2 CARRION CROWS, 2 SONG THRUSHES as well as 1+ singing nearby along The Drive, c.12 WOODPIGEONS, 3 BLACKBIRDS and 1 MAGPIE.
BLACKCAP was heard in Belmont today. At the Downs, at the golf course nothing special was seen. Best was 2 SONG THRUSHES . . . others noted were 2 ROBINS, 4 GREAT TITS, 1+ LONG-TAILED TIT, 2+ CHAFFINCHES, 2 CARRION CROWS, 2 SONG THRUSHES as well as 1+ singing nearby along The Drive, c.12 WOODPIGEONS, 3 BLACKBIRDS and 1 MAGPIE.
Monday, 18 January 2010
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods 18/01/2010
Went to the site again today, but with Phil Wallace this time. Patch year ticks were KESTREL and COLLARED DOVE (a female and a big flock of 10-20 respectively).
More notable were reasonable local counts of SKYLARK and YELLOWHAMMER with totals of 40 and 19+ respectively. 2-3 (on second thoughts, it could have just been one; if it was, it had a pretty big range) SPARROWHAWKS. The only other raptor was the female KESTREL already mentioned.
Banstead Woods got me a WOODCOCK, but Phil unfortunately missed it.
2 MEADOW PIPITS were seen flying from the Yellowhammer Field to the Buzzard (aka Big) Field.
WOODPECKERS were represented by 4 GREAT SPOTTEDS (2 of which were drumming against each other) and 3 GREENS.
A GOLDCREST was singing and a single TREECREEPER was noted as were 3 COAL TITS and 4-6 NUTHATCHES. 3 BULLFINCHES were heard or seen. 2 MISTLE THRUSHES were present and there, as always, were good numbers of FIELDFARES and REDWINGS.
20+ COMMON GULLS were counted along with c.8 BLACK-HEADED GULLS and 2+ HERRING GULLS. These Gull counts only count those using the site, not those flying over the site.
More notable were reasonable local counts of SKYLARK and YELLOWHAMMER with totals of 40 and 19+ respectively. 2-3 (on second thoughts, it could have just been one; if it was, it had a pretty big range) SPARROWHAWKS. The only other raptor was the female KESTREL already mentioned.
Banstead Woods got me a WOODCOCK, but Phil unfortunately missed it.
2 MEADOW PIPITS were seen flying from the Yellowhammer Field to the Buzzard (aka Big) Field.
WOODPECKERS were represented by 4 GREAT SPOTTEDS (2 of which were drumming against each other) and 3 GREENS.
A GOLDCREST was singing and a single TREECREEPER was noted as were 3 COAL TITS and 4-6 NUTHATCHES. 3 BULLFINCHES were heard or seen. 2 MISTLE THRUSHES were present and there, as always, were good numbers of FIELDFARES and REDWINGS.
20+ COMMON GULLS were counted along with c.8 BLACK-HEADED GULLS and 2+ HERRING GULLS. These Gull counts only count those using the site, not those flying over the site.
Sunday, 17 January 2010
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods 17/01/2010
Had a good day today with LITTLE OWL being the highlight. 7 ROOKS was also good as was a female SPARROWHAWK. Other patch year ticks were HOUSE SPARROW, SONG THRUSH, PIED WAGTAIL, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL and STOCK DOVE.
Other notable species included 1 YELLOWHAMMER, 1 LESSER REDPOLL, c.15 SKY LARKS, 1 MEADOW PIPIT, 3 BULLFINCHES, 5 NUTHATCHES, c.5 COAL TITS, 2+ MISTLE THRUSHES, a drumming GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER, a single GREEN WOODPECKER and 2+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS. There were also good numbers of FIELDFARES and REDWINGS.
My Canon's Farm and Banstead Wood 2010 year list is now on 46.
Other notable species included 1 YELLOWHAMMER, 1 LESSER REDPOLL, c.15 SKY LARKS, 1 MEADOW PIPIT, 3 BULLFINCHES, 5 NUTHATCHES, c.5 COAL TITS, 2+ MISTLE THRUSHES, a drumming GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER, a single GREEN WOODPECKER and 2+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS. There were also good numbers of FIELDFARES and REDWINGS.
My Canon's Farm and Banstead Wood 2010 year list is now on 46.
15/01/2010 the Heron lands!
Had a bit of a surprise when I found an adult GREY HERON which was on deck on the Merlin Pasture. It even stayed there long enough for me to photograph it, before it was flushed and it flew off roughly west. This is quite unusual for the Downs.
Also 3 LESSER REDPOLLS, 2+ BULLFINCHES, and a handful of JACKDAWS.
Also 3 LESSER REDPOLLS, 2+ BULLFINCHES, and a handful of JACKDAWS.
Thursday, 14 January 2010
photos from Carshalton Ponds 10/01/2010
A few photos from my recent trip to Carshalton Ponds, which produced two or three of decent birds for my immediate local area.
Little Egret
Common Snipe
Egyptian Goose
Egyptian Goose
Little Grebe
Grey Wagtail
drake Tufted Duck
Robin
Grey Heron
Little Egret
Common Snipe
Egyptian Goose
Egyptian Goose
Little Grebe
Grey Wagtail
drake Tufted Duck
Robin
Grey HeronInteresting report from Cheam and good news for the Firecrests
I had a look on the Londonbirders wikia page this afternoon and saw an interesting report from an unnamed observer. Most surprising was the sighting of a single MARSH HARRIER. Other good reports included 2 WOODCOCKS and a male PEREGRINE.
Also reported were 5 SPARROWHAWKS, a single BLACKCAP, JAY, SONG THRUSH, GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER also 'FIELDFARES and REDWINGS yesterday'.
I wonder if all this refers to Nonsuch Park, Cheam (or perhaps Priest Hill or Howell Hill); seems more than likely.
Also good news on the Firecrests, I have been contacted by someone from Natural England who is very concerned with the issue and has told the site manager to stop work in that area. He seems very knowledgeable on birds and very understanding of them, which is very good.
He was not only concerned about the Firecrests, but he also wanted to keep track of the other birds on the Downs and asked me if I could provide him a list of the rough number of breeding pairs of each species on the site.
I am not sure how accurate the list will be when I meet him in February to discuss the Firecrests, the site and the other birds that inhabit it, but I am very keen to do an accurate and thorough breeding survey of as much of the site as possible this year. It should be a very interesting and exciting project for me.
Also reported were 5 SPARROWHAWKS, a single BLACKCAP, JAY, SONG THRUSH, GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER also 'FIELDFARES and REDWINGS yesterday'.
I wonder if all this refers to Nonsuch Park, Cheam (or perhaps Priest Hill or Howell Hill); seems more than likely.
Also good news on the Firecrests, I have been contacted by someone from Natural England who is very concerned with the issue and has told the site manager to stop work in that area. He seems very knowledgeable on birds and very understanding of them, which is very good.
He was not only concerned about the Firecrests, but he also wanted to keep track of the other birds on the Downs and asked me if I could provide him a list of the rough number of breeding pairs of each species on the site.
I am not sure how accurate the list will be when I meet him in February to discuss the Firecrests, the site and the other birds that inhabit it, but I am very keen to do an accurate and thorough breeding survey of as much of the site as possible this year. It should be a very interesting and exciting project for me.
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
garden 13/01/2010
A single male BLACKCAP made an appearance in my garden this afternoon, brightening up my day at home.
I have put out lots of food including apples so am hoping for something else a bit unusual to make a visit.
Yesterday at Banstead Downs, 3 FIELDFARES were present still.
I have put out lots of food including apples so am hoping for something else a bit unusual to make a visit.
Yesterday at Banstead Downs, 3 FIELDFARES were present still.
Monday, 11 January 2010
11/01/2010
Little at the Downs today, with a brief after school visit just before dusk. I managed GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER as a Banstead Downs year tick, making 20. 1 individual heard calling in the north wood. Also at least one ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET over and 3+ FIELDFARES and a handful of JACKDAWS leaving to roost. Little of note really.
Sunday, 10 January 2010
Carshalton Ponds 10/01/2010
Hoping for something like a Jack Snipe along the Wandle from Carshalton Ponds to Wilderness Island this afternoon and made an attempt at counting the waterbirds.
I failed to locate a Jack Snipe, but did find 3 COMMON SNIPE, which isn't bad (1 was near the 3rd bridge at the ponds and 2 were near the entrance to Wilderness Island). Other highlights included a LITTLE EGRET along the Wandle at the entrance to Wilderness Island where there was a pair of KINGFISHERS (possibly making a total of 4 if the other two birds further back towards the Ponds were different). An extremely showy EGYPTIAN GOOSE, another decent bird for the Ponds, was present at the top of the main waterfall.
A single LITTLE GREBE was present just beyond the bridge at Carshalton Ponds where there were 2 GREY WAGTAILS and 250-300 BLACK-HEADED GULLS which were accompanied by a single 2nd winter HERRING GULL which looked a bit exhausted. I was disappointed that I did not find a Mediterranean Gull.
The resident GREY HERON was present near the main waterfall and, as usual, showed extremely well.
MALLARDS numbered at 36+, mainly at the Ponds. This number includes some ornamental type birds with the exception of only the obvious white ones.
11 TUFTED DUCKS were at the Ponds.
14+ COOTS were noted along with 20+ MOORHENS.
c.48 CANADA GEESE were counted, all at the Ponds.
2 MUTE SWANS were at the Ponds.
6 JACKDAWS were seen.
The area may be worth more time with species like Smew and Common Scoter having been recorded in the past.
I did get some photographs today but my computer is in a bit of a mood at the moment so I'm using my dad's laptop, which I will not put my photographs on, to avoid confusion.
I failed to locate a Jack Snipe, but did find 3 COMMON SNIPE, which isn't bad (1 was near the 3rd bridge at the ponds and 2 were near the entrance to Wilderness Island). Other highlights included a LITTLE EGRET along the Wandle at the entrance to Wilderness Island where there was a pair of KINGFISHERS (possibly making a total of 4 if the other two birds further back towards the Ponds were different). An extremely showy EGYPTIAN GOOSE, another decent bird for the Ponds, was present at the top of the main waterfall.
A single LITTLE GREBE was present just beyond the bridge at Carshalton Ponds where there were 2 GREY WAGTAILS and 250-300 BLACK-HEADED GULLS which were accompanied by a single 2nd winter HERRING GULL which looked a bit exhausted. I was disappointed that I did not find a Mediterranean Gull.
The resident GREY HERON was present near the main waterfall and, as usual, showed extremely well.
MALLARDS numbered at 36+, mainly at the Ponds. This number includes some ornamental type birds with the exception of only the obvious white ones.
11 TUFTED DUCKS were at the Ponds.
14+ COOTS were noted along with 20+ MOORHENS.
c.48 CANADA GEESE were counted, all at the Ponds.
2 MUTE SWANS were at the Ponds.
6 JACKDAWS were seen.
The area may be worth more time with species like Smew and Common Scoter having been recorded in the past.
I did get some photographs today but my computer is in a bit of a mood at the moment so I'm using my dad's laptop, which I will not put my photographs on, to avoid confusion.
Saturday, 9 January 2010
Sutton
Still no proper birding due to the conditions and my sinuses but got stunning views of both the male and the female PEREGRINES on the western face of the Reed Building this afternoon, easily viewed from the bus stops near the station. They were both side by side, allowing excellent size comparisons.
A single FIELDFARE flew south east by the building, roughly level with it and a PIED WAGTAIL was showing well near "All-Bar-One".
A single FIELDFARE flew south east by the building, roughly level with it and a PIED WAGTAIL was showing well near "All-Bar-One".
Friday, 8 January 2010
window watch
From my window late this afternoon, a SPARROWHAWK flew low to Banstead Downs and a FIELDFARE flew to Banstead Downs then returned and spent a few moments in a tree in my garden. A bit of a scarcity in the garden.
No Plovers of any kind though . . .
No Plovers of any kind though . . .
Mark Stanley keeps the counts coming
Mark Stanley informed me of a count of 33+ BULLFINCHES in the Banstead Woods area yesterday (07/01/2010), a very impressive count, made up of groups of 7, 12 and 14 birds.
Also of great interest, Mark reported a BARN OWL on the north side of Holly Lane, Banstead at 08:30, also yesterday. When/if I get the chance, I'll have a wander down there.
Also of great interest, Mark reported a BARN OWL on the north side of Holly Lane, Banstead at 08:30, also yesterday. When/if I get the chance, I'll have a wander down there.
cold weather affects local birds
Today (08/01/2010) I noticed a couple of displaced birds in the Sutton area. First off a GREY WAGTAIL, a winter female/1st winter, was feeding along the grass verge and around the bottoms of trees and a bench near Gatton Close, seen from teh 280 bus.
In the Sutton CBD a solitary exhausted migrant REDWING showed extremely well as it sat in one of the few bare, small trees and occasionally dropped onto the pavement. This is the tamest and most ubran Redwing I've ever seen. Also 2 FIELDFARES moved north there.
No sign of any Peregrines on the Reed Building today, but I only checked the western and northern faces of the building and glanced at the glass building just north.
I've been affected by the cold weather too, staying warm inside with bad sinuses and, too my frustration, not being able to check the Downs or Canon's to grab a bit of the cold weather movement action, Golden Plover being my main target.
I'm about to have a skywatch from my window by the Downs and will let you know.
In the Sutton CBD a solitary exhausted migrant REDWING showed extremely well as it sat in one of the few bare, small trees and occasionally dropped onto the pavement. This is the tamest and most ubran Redwing I've ever seen. Also 2 FIELDFARES moved north there.
No sign of any Peregrines on the Reed Building today, but I only checked the western and northern faces of the building and glanced at the glass building just north.
I've been affected by the cold weather too, staying warm inside with bad sinuses and, too my frustration, not being able to check the Downs or Canon's to grab a bit of the cold weather movement action, Golden Plover being my main target.
I'm about to have a skywatch from my window by the Downs and will let you know.
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
05/01/2010
2 FIRECRESTS still this afternoon between posts 1 and post 678 along the wooded footpath at Banstead Downs Golf Course.
Monday, 4 January 2010
04/01/2010
My first proper trip of the decade to the Downs and I am pleased to report that 2 FIRECRESTS were still present as twilight swept over the North Downs. They were ranging a few metres either side of post 678 along the wooded footpath.
Not much else of note present. A SPARROWHAWK flew low over the wooded footpath hotly pursued by at least 1 CARRION CROW. 1 GREEN WOODPECKER called, a JAY was seen along the wooded footpath and a SONG THRUSH was flushed at the entrance of the wooded footpath, walking back home.
Also a handful of REDWINGS around, a couple of CHAFFINCHES and a single GREENFINCH flew over. LONG-TAILED and BLUE TIT were noted.
Adding to the 5 basic species seen from my window on New Year's Day, my Banstead Downs 2010 year list has now risen to 18 species.
Not much else of note present. A SPARROWHAWK flew low over the wooded footpath hotly pursued by at least 1 CARRION CROW. 1 GREEN WOODPECKER called, a JAY was seen along the wooded footpath and a SONG THRUSH was flushed at the entrance of the wooded footpath, walking back home.
Also a handful of REDWINGS around, a couple of CHAFFINCHES and a single GREENFINCH flew over. LONG-TAILED and BLUE TIT were noted.
Adding to the 5 basic species seen from my window on New Year's Day, my Banstead Downs 2010 year list has now risen to 18 species.
Sunday, 3 January 2010
Firecrests staying into the new decade
Roger Unite is reporting the continued presence of the pair of FIRECRESTS into 2010 at Banstead Downs Golf Course on 01/01/2010. They were just beyond post 678 and showing well.
Epsom Downs 03/01/2010
A very showy PIED WAGTAIL present in the car park at Epsom Downs today also 10 or 20 BLACK-HEADED GULLS present.
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods 02/02/2010
Starting my Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods 2010 year list . . .
COMMON BUZZARD still in the Big Field also one viewed distantly over the south end of the Chipstead Valley
2 or 3 WOODCOCKS flushed from the south end of Banstead Woods
BLACK-HEADED GULL - many present and flying over
COMMON GULL - several present and flying over
HERRING GULL - small numbers flew over
ROCK DOVE - several birds present
WOODPIGEON - good numbers
ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET - a handful
GREEN WOODPECKER - 1 over Yellowhammer field
GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER - 4+
SKYLARK 17+ (6+ then 11 then probably involving same birds; 3 or so in Big Field)
MEADOW PIPIT - 9+ birds flew from Yellowhammer field to Big Field
WREN - small scattering
DUNNOCK - one at west side of Yellowhammer field
ROBIN - a scattering of birds
BLACKBIRD - several around
FIELDFARE - good numbers
REDWING - good numbers
MISTLE THRUSH - a couple
GOLDCREST - 2
LONG-TAILED TIT - several
BLUE TIT - several
GREAT TIT - several
COAL TIT - 3
NUTHATCH - 5+
TREECREEPER - 1+ Banstead Woods
JAY - several birds
MAGPIE - a handful
JACKDAW - a handful
CARRION CROW - common
STARLING - small flocks here and there
CHAFFINCH - very roughly 200 or so in the Big Field
GREENFINCH - small numbers
GOLDFINCH - small numbers
LINNET - small numbers
LESSER REDPOLL- 3+ in Banstead Woods
BULLFINCH - 2 at the south end of Banstead Woods
YELLOWHAMMER - 6+ in the usual field south east of the derelict farm buildings
38 species recorded
COMMON BUZZARD still in the Big Field also one viewed distantly over the south end of the Chipstead Valley
2 or 3 WOODCOCKS flushed from the south end of Banstead Woods
BLACK-HEADED GULL - many present and flying over
COMMON GULL - several present and flying over
HERRING GULL - small numbers flew over
ROCK DOVE - several birds present
WOODPIGEON - good numbers
ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET - a handful
GREEN WOODPECKER - 1 over Yellowhammer field
GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER - 4+
SKYLARK 17+ (6+ then 11 then probably involving same birds; 3 or so in Big Field)
MEADOW PIPIT - 9+ birds flew from Yellowhammer field to Big Field
WREN - small scattering
DUNNOCK - one at west side of Yellowhammer field
ROBIN - a scattering of birds
BLACKBIRD - several around
FIELDFARE - good numbers
REDWING - good numbers
MISTLE THRUSH - a couple
GOLDCREST - 2
LONG-TAILED TIT - several
BLUE TIT - several
GREAT TIT - several
COAL TIT - 3
NUTHATCH - 5+
TREECREEPER - 1+ Banstead Woods
JAY - several birds
MAGPIE - a handful
JACKDAW - a handful
CARRION CROW - common
STARLING - small flocks here and there
CHAFFINCH - very roughly 200 or so in the Big Field
GREENFINCH - small numbers
GOLDFINCH - small numbers
LINNET - small numbers
LESSER REDPOLL- 3+ in Banstead Woods
BULLFINCH - 2 at the south end of Banstead Woods
YELLOWHAMMER - 6+ in the usual field south east of the derelict farm buildings
38 species recorded
nearby 01/01/2010
From my window, just off Banstead Downs on New Year's Day I recorded ten species before going off to do some proper birding
MAGPIE
WOODPIGEON
BLACK-HEADED GULL
CARRION CROW
HERRING GULL
COLLARED DOVE
BLUE TIT
ROBIN
STARLING
BLACKBIRD
MAGPIE
WOODPIGEON
BLACK-HEADED GULL
CARRION CROW
HERRING GULL
COLLARED DOVE
BLUE TIT
ROBIN
STARLING
BLACKBIRD
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods 31/12/2009
1 COMMON BUZZARD still in the Big Field
5+ YELLOWHAMMERS
TREECREEPER
GOLDCREST
2+ MEADOW PIPITS
KESTREL
5 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS
5+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS
5+ YELLOWHAMMERS
TREECREEPER
GOLDCREST
2+ MEADOW PIPITS
KESTREL
5 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS
5+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS
Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods 30/12/2009
WOODCOCK flushed twice from south end
8+ YELLOWHAMMERS
GREY HERON in Big Field
4 NUTHATCHES
5+ LINNETS
2 COAL TITS
GREEN WOODPECKER
GOLDCREST
TREECREEPER
2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS
PIED WAGTAIL over
8+ YELLOWHAMMERS
GREY HERON in Big Field
4 NUTHATCHES
5+ LINNETS
2 COAL TITS
GREEN WOODPECKER
GOLDCREST
TREECREEPER
2 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS
PIED WAGTAIL over
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
In other news- 29/12/2009
In Sutton today a PEREGRINE was seen flying from the Reed Building to the glass building just north as I got off the 280 bus.
Saturday, 26 December 2009
In other news- 26/12/2009
A trip to Canon's Farm today, at last! The first of the Christmas holidays, mainly because of the ice keeping me to the Downs.
The highlight was the presence of a single male BRAMBLING in the field eastern most field with maybe 50 CHAFFINCHES, though I didn't really count. Also in the same field were about 20 LINNETS. There were about 300 CHAFFINCHES, in total in the whole area (Kevin).
The COMMON BUZZARD remained in 'The Big Field' and showed well to the other four birders there (including Kevin).
15+ YELLOWHAMMERS were also present and some showed well today.
2 NUTHATCHES were noted, one in Banstead Woods and one in the hunting wood (where a single GOLDCREST called).
2 MEADOW PIPITS and at least 3 SKYLARKS were noted together (though many kept popping up and down and they were hence difficult to count) with about another 10 LINNETS and a number of CHAFFINCHES, maybe 30 or so.
A decent count of 5 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS was taken and a single GREEN WOODPECKER was seen as well.
2 KESTRELS were seen at the end of the run of houses at Canon's Lane (where 2 of the GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS were.
2 SONG THRUSHES showed well together with about 10 or so FIELDFARES and up to 20 REDWINGS. 7 MISTLE THRUSHES were in the north eastern most field.
The highlight was the presence of a single male BRAMBLING in the field eastern most field with maybe 50 CHAFFINCHES, though I didn't really count. Also in the same field were about 20 LINNETS. There were about 300 CHAFFINCHES, in total in the whole area (Kevin).
The COMMON BUZZARD remained in 'The Big Field' and showed well to the other four birders there (including Kevin).
15+ YELLOWHAMMERS were also present and some showed well today.
2 NUTHATCHES were noted, one in Banstead Woods and one in the hunting wood (where a single GOLDCREST called).
2 MEADOW PIPITS and at least 3 SKYLARKS were noted together (though many kept popping up and down and they were hence difficult to count) with about another 10 LINNETS and a number of CHAFFINCHES, maybe 30 or so.
A decent count of 5 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS was taken and a single GREEN WOODPECKER was seen as well.
2 KESTRELS were seen at the end of the run of houses at Canon's Lane (where 2 of the GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS were.
2 SONG THRUSHES showed well together with about 10 or so FIELDFARES and up to 20 REDWINGS. 7 MISTLE THRUSHES were in the north eastern most field.
25/12/2009
Christmas day and no birding for once! Something did, however, manage to catch my eye. Flying north over my garden, so without a doubt coming directly from the Downs which is a matter of feet away at all times was a very low GREY HERON. It looked like an immature so it was probably the same bird as the bird that flew south east of the 23rd. A Crow was close on its tail.
Yesterday yet another COAL TIT was calling at Belmont Heights.
Yesterday yet another COAL TIT was calling at Belmont Heights.
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
Festive greetings
Wishing everybody a merry christmas and happy new year, and good birding in 2010 and the next decade!
23/12/2009
Another day doing my newly devised winter route was relatively productive.
Briefly calling at the golf course, it was encouraging to see that the workers had kept to their promise and had postponed the undergrowth clearance.
It was also encouraging to hear a FIRECREST calling and eventually pin it down in the thick vegetation near post 678.
A good patch bird was a NUTHATCH that flew in from the adjacent gardens along The Drive (where they are fairly regular, though they rarely stray onto the Downs), called once and was lost to view, never to be seen again! I am fairly sure that you don't get Nuthatches in the east wood, but I'm not 100%; I've never seen them there even though I don't visit that area too often, and the habitat is similar to the rest of the wooded areas at the Downs, where I never see them. So a good bird to see at the Downs.
The other main highlight was 2 LAPWINGS flying relatively low, west. Again, I only saw them as they were flying away, not noticing them when they would have been in a good position for a decent photo. I managed another poor back shot, though it's a slight improvement on Saturday's photo!
Lapwings (the top shot is another of the right and bird and the bottom is another of the left hand bird).
As I was hoping for, and kind of expecting in this weather, a GREY HERON flew over. It flew over the middle of the site, very low, much lower than I've seen any Grey Heron here before and a CARRION CROW was right on its tail. At one point it was just a few feet above the bushes! It was a 1st winter bird and headed roughly south east. Cormorant or Mallard next? (latter being desperately needed for my Downs year list!).
Grey Heron
I was thinking about the dearth of Skylarks this autumn. I have logged one so far this autumn and I think that was back in September, so it was nice that just as I was thinking this I heard a single SKYLARK fly over, it sounded fairly low but I couldn't get onto it. This sort of thing has happened before, I think I must have heard the bird in the distance, subconsciously and this must have started thoughts about them!
5 BULLFINCHES were present together just south of the central enclosure. I didn't manage to sex all of them but I think 2 were females and one was a male, not sure about the other two.
REDWING numbers were similar, perhaps a little down??? FIELDFARES had increased once more with 2 birds flying over the golf course, 5 south of the enclosures that flew off low south west to another part of the site, 4, possibly different birds over the bike track and 8+ feeding in the central and western enclosures (the latter being the one now fenced off and sheep are due tomorrow, weather providing). So in total up to 19 (possibly more) Fieldfares today. Maybe more realistically around 15? With the birds being so mobile it is hard to estimate. A MISTLE THRUSH was present briefly at the north enclosure before flying low south.
Fieldfare
I finally got a ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET! One bird flew fairly low over the golf course today after a recent dearth in these species after the bad weather (even though I thought they wouldn't have been too effected; maybe they have been, or maybe they've just been less mobile in the bad weather?)
A GOLDFINCH was heard in a tree but could not be located at the golf course.
A single GREEN WOODPECKER called at or near the bike track and a single GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER was heard at the south wood where the GOLDCREST was still present, despite being heard-only. At the golf course, a fair distance down the wooded footpath, another GOLDCREST, a female, showed well.
A 1st winter COMMON GULL flew over.
4 JAYS were noted today; 1 at the golf course, 2 at the bike track and 1 at the north wood.
A single SONG THRUSH was seen at the bike track.
Not so many BLACKBIRDS, with 5 or so present. A handful of LONG-TAILED, BLUE and GREAT TITS were present (a huge flock of BLUE and LONG-TAILED TITS was seen in Belmont this a.m.; they were all just streaming into one or two bushes!). Again no sign of the Blackcaps.
CARRION CROWS, MAGPIES and WOODPIGEONS common as always.
IN OTHER NEWS
1 SPARROWHAWK dashed through buildings and trees around St. John's Church, Belmont, this morning.
A GREY HERON was reported over Belmont this a.m., possibly the same bird I saw later on?
One COAL TIT was calling at Burdon Lane where a male GREENFINCH also showed well.
One COAL TIT was calling at The Drive.
Yesterday, after the gathering, I was passing the PIED WAGTAIL roost so had a look to see how many there looked to be in that tree in comparison to last time. It looked packed! In comparison to my count of c.160 I would guess there were perhaps 200 in there.
Briefly calling at the golf course, it was encouraging to see that the workers had kept to their promise and had postponed the undergrowth clearance.
It was also encouraging to hear a FIRECREST calling and eventually pin it down in the thick vegetation near post 678.
A good patch bird was a NUTHATCH that flew in from the adjacent gardens along The Drive (where they are fairly regular, though they rarely stray onto the Downs), called once and was lost to view, never to be seen again! I am fairly sure that you don't get Nuthatches in the east wood, but I'm not 100%; I've never seen them there even though I don't visit that area too often, and the habitat is similar to the rest of the wooded areas at the Downs, where I never see them. So a good bird to see at the Downs.
The other main highlight was 2 LAPWINGS flying relatively low, west. Again, I only saw them as they were flying away, not noticing them when they would have been in a good position for a decent photo. I managed another poor back shot, though it's a slight improvement on Saturday's photo!
Lapwings (the top shot is another of the right and bird and the bottom is another of the left hand bird).As I was hoping for, and kind of expecting in this weather, a GREY HERON flew over. It flew over the middle of the site, very low, much lower than I've seen any Grey Heron here before and a CARRION CROW was right on its tail. At one point it was just a few feet above the bushes! It was a 1st winter bird and headed roughly south east. Cormorant or Mallard next? (latter being desperately needed for my Downs year list!).
Grey HeronI was thinking about the dearth of Skylarks this autumn. I have logged one so far this autumn and I think that was back in September, so it was nice that just as I was thinking this I heard a single SKYLARK fly over, it sounded fairly low but I couldn't get onto it. This sort of thing has happened before, I think I must have heard the bird in the distance, subconsciously and this must have started thoughts about them!
5 BULLFINCHES were present together just south of the central enclosure. I didn't manage to sex all of them but I think 2 were females and one was a male, not sure about the other two.
REDWING numbers were similar, perhaps a little down??? FIELDFARES had increased once more with 2 birds flying over the golf course, 5 south of the enclosures that flew off low south west to another part of the site, 4, possibly different birds over the bike track and 8+ feeding in the central and western enclosures (the latter being the one now fenced off and sheep are due tomorrow, weather providing). So in total up to 19 (possibly more) Fieldfares today. Maybe more realistically around 15? With the birds being so mobile it is hard to estimate. A MISTLE THRUSH was present briefly at the north enclosure before flying low south.
FieldfareI finally got a ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET! One bird flew fairly low over the golf course today after a recent dearth in these species after the bad weather (even though I thought they wouldn't have been too effected; maybe they have been, or maybe they've just been less mobile in the bad weather?)
A GOLDFINCH was heard in a tree but could not be located at the golf course.
A single GREEN WOODPECKER called at or near the bike track and a single GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER was heard at the south wood where the GOLDCREST was still present, despite being heard-only. At the golf course, a fair distance down the wooded footpath, another GOLDCREST, a female, showed well.
A 1st winter COMMON GULL flew over.
4 JAYS were noted today; 1 at the golf course, 2 at the bike track and 1 at the north wood.
A single SONG THRUSH was seen at the bike track.
Not so many BLACKBIRDS, with 5 or so present. A handful of LONG-TAILED, BLUE and GREAT TITS were present (a huge flock of BLUE and LONG-TAILED TITS was seen in Belmont this a.m.; they were all just streaming into one or two bushes!). Again no sign of the Blackcaps.
CARRION CROWS, MAGPIES and WOODPIGEONS common as always.
IN OTHER NEWS
1 SPARROWHAWK dashed through buildings and trees around St. John's Church, Belmont, this morning.
A GREY HERON was reported over Belmont this a.m., possibly the same bird I saw later on?
One COAL TIT was calling at Burdon Lane where a male GREENFINCH also showed well.
One COAL TIT was calling at The Drive.
Yesterday, after the gathering, I was passing the PIED WAGTAIL roost so had a look to see how many there looked to be in that tree in comparison to last time. It looked packed! In comparison to my count of c.160 I would guess there were perhaps 200 in there.
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
22/12/2009
I was delighted today to see a FIRECREST along the wooded footpath between post 657 and 678, although upsetting to see cut stems and a burning pile of vegetation just feet away from it. I was pretty sure I heard a separate bird calling nearby, too.
Good news is no further work will be done until the groundsmen get the all clear from Banstead Commons Conservators and Natural England.
3 REDPOLLS flew over the golf course, west of the A217.
A SPARROWHAWK flew across the railway line while another was seen jostling with one of the 20 or 30 CARRION CROWS along Freedown Lane.
Just a thought, it is interesting that I have failed to record any Rose-ringed Parakeets since the snow.
The only other raptor seen today was a single KESTREL which was hovering over the east enclosure between the railway at Sutton Lane.
In the area between the railway and Sutton Lane there were 2 JAYS, a single GOLDCREST that showed well in the south wood, at least 3 male BULLFINCHES which showed well (for Bullfinches anyway) together. It seems to be an excellent time to catch up with one of these beautiful finches locally, with birds grouping up and showing well as they search for food.
Bullfinch
Thrushes were still in evidence with similar numbers of REDWINGS to the past few days and an increase in FIELDFARES, with at least 7 mobile birds in the central enclosure in the area between the railway and Sutton Lane.
Fieldfares
Not exactly a common bird at Banstead Downs, especially settled on the site, were c.6 GOLDFINCHES that dropped down at the edge of the site or maybe into someone's garden.
A single GREEN WOODPECKER perched on a small, bare oak at the western side of the central enclosure was a nice bird. It seemed to love that tree, not flushing, unusually, when a dog walker went straight past it, and when it did flush a bit later on, it soon returned. Green Woodpecker, like Rose-ringed Parakeet has been a little difficult to track down in this icy weather.
Green Woodpecker
IN OTHER NEWS
COAL TITS were vocal locally today. One was very near Banstead Downs Golf Course, calling from a garden along The Drive. Another was singing at the western part of Northdown Road.
Good news is no further work will be done until the groundsmen get the all clear from Banstead Commons Conservators and Natural England.
3 REDPOLLS flew over the golf course, west of the A217.
A SPARROWHAWK flew across the railway line while another was seen jostling with one of the 20 or 30 CARRION CROWS along Freedown Lane.
Just a thought, it is interesting that I have failed to record any Rose-ringed Parakeets since the snow.
The only other raptor seen today was a single KESTREL which was hovering over the east enclosure between the railway at Sutton Lane.
In the area between the railway and Sutton Lane there were 2 JAYS, a single GOLDCREST that showed well in the south wood, at least 3 male BULLFINCHES which showed well (for Bullfinches anyway) together. It seems to be an excellent time to catch up with one of these beautiful finches locally, with birds grouping up and showing well as they search for food.
BullfinchThrushes were still in evidence with similar numbers of REDWINGS to the past few days and an increase in FIELDFARES, with at least 7 mobile birds in the central enclosure in the area between the railway and Sutton Lane.
FieldfaresNot exactly a common bird at Banstead Downs, especially settled on the site, were c.6 GOLDFINCHES that dropped down at the edge of the site or maybe into someone's garden.
A single GREEN WOODPECKER perched on a small, bare oak at the western side of the central enclosure was a nice bird. It seemed to love that tree, not flushing, unusually, when a dog walker went straight past it, and when it did flush a bit later on, it soon returned. Green Woodpecker, like Rose-ringed Parakeet has been a little difficult to track down in this icy weather.
Green WoodpeckerIN OTHER NEWS
COAL TITS were vocal locally today. One was very near Banstead Downs Golf Course, calling from a garden along The Drive. Another was singing at the western part of Northdown Road.
Monday, 21 December 2009
21/12/2009
No sign of the Firecrests today at the golf course where I was shocked to find further habitat destruction following the well publicised clearance that took place in February and won the front page of a local newspaper.
I was even more shocked to have found out that the golf course is planning to clear most of the undergrowth along a substantial length of the wooded footpath favoured by the Firecrests. I think that this is a very silly and pointless thing to do, causing disturbance to a rare bird in an area which is not important to the golf course, at the edge of the site. There is absolutely no need for this destruction, even if the Firecrests could find suitable habitat nearby (there is no habitat as good as the wooded footpath nearby anyway, and there is NO QUESTION that it is causing unnecessary disturbance to all wildlife let alone the scarce and sensitive Firecrests) and I am doing everything in my ability to stop it happening.
It was also enlightening to find that checks are NOT done for every piece of management that the golf course plans, but instead the 'conservation' organisations have an agreement which lets the golf club do such things without consultation or the surveying of an area. This questions one of the manager's statements in February that all appropriate checks had been made and they were doing nothing wrong, if I remember correctly.
The most that I have got out of the golf club regarding why they are doing it, other than because they can, is that golfers lose their balls in the undergrowth and 'it's a golf course'. Maybe bad golfers deserve to have trouble finding their balls, surely a scarce wintering bird on the red list is more important (regardless of whether it is in the breeding season or not).
All very upsetting and stressful. The most understanding person I have talked to today about the issue was the head guy of the workforce which were doing the felling! He said that all of the work would be postponed until Natural England and the Banstead Commons Conservators give them the all clear on any sensitive wildlife. I contacted the main man of the Banstead Commons Conservators on the issue to be greeted with complete lack of knowledge of what was going on (shows how organised they are), and he said that all he would agree to do is to send one of his guys down there tomorrow morning to see what was going on. I asked if I could join him (not completely trusting them) and I was answered, rather grumpily, with something along the lines with 'You most certainly can not). I found his attitude unpleasant, as I did with one of the main men at the golf club who said something along the lines of 'We have permission, so we can do whatever we like' and 'there's gonna be more clearance', all said in a pretty smug manner with a little smurk on his face.
Not a good situation for the Firecrests, especially with all this snow and ice. This combination of harsh weather and habitat destruction without much aid from conservation bodies is not conducive to the survival of a tiny, scarce and sensitive passerine bird.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE BIRD SIGHTINGS AT BANSTEAD DOWNS TODAY
Sorry for the inaccurate counts, I was busy thinking about the situation at the golf course.
Suffice to say, there was no sign of any Firecrests along the wooded footpath today.
2 male BLACKCAPS were seen together at the bike track which is just west of the railway and at least 3 BULLFINCHES were present there also. I only managed to sex one, a female, not sure what sex the others were.
A SPARROWHAWK was seen at the golf course just east of the A217 and what was probably the same individual was seen jostling in the air with a CARRION CROW in the distance over the golf course, from the main site between the A217 and Sutton Lane.
3 FIELDFARES present at the core site between the railway and Sutton Lane also good numbers of REDWINGS, perhaps 30 or 40 like yesterday, but hard to estimate.
FieldfareNot quite as many BLACKBIRDS as the other day but there were a few around, I really didn't count them but I would guess around 10 or so.
There were probably about 5 ROBINS. There was a handful of TITS including GREAT, LONG-TAILED and BLUE.
Up to 5 MAGPIES were present with 10 or 20 WOODPIGEONS and 5 to 10 or so CARRION CROWS.
Sunday, 20 December 2009
In other news- 20/12/2009
Mark Stanley provided me with another impressive batch of sightings from the Banstead Woods/Chipstead area today notching up some good birds and impressive counts.
Close to Chipstead Lane, 5 BULLFINCHES, including a single male, were present.
10 BULLFINCHES were present in one spot along the western edge of Banstead Wood. This is a pretty impressive count for the local area, especially all in one go like that!
A little further on and Mark saw a further pair of BULLFINCHES (possibly the earlier pair, but probably different).
All in all this makes a total of SEVENTEEN BULLFINCHES all in a pretty small area!
Mark also got a couple of other good birds with a flock of 9 eastbound LAPWINGS. There seems to be a bit of a cold weather movement of this wonderful Plover going on at the moment. Mark also recorded a single ROOK which is never common in the local area.
Also seen in the area by Mark today:
2 MISTLE THRUSHES
2 SONG THRUSHES
60+ FIELDFARES
80+ REDWINGS
6 JAYS
5-10 GOLDCRESTS
1 GREY HERON north
40+ BLACKBIRDS
Close to Chipstead Lane, 5 BULLFINCHES, including a single male, were present.
10 BULLFINCHES were present in one spot along the western edge of Banstead Wood. This is a pretty impressive count for the local area, especially all in one go like that!
A little further on and Mark saw a further pair of BULLFINCHES (possibly the earlier pair, but probably different).
All in all this makes a total of SEVENTEEN BULLFINCHES all in a pretty small area!
Mark also got a couple of other good birds with a flock of 9 eastbound LAPWINGS. There seems to be a bit of a cold weather movement of this wonderful Plover going on at the moment. Mark also recorded a single ROOK which is never common in the local area.
Also seen in the area by Mark today:
2 MISTLE THRUSHES
2 SONG THRUSHES
60+ FIELDFARES
80+ REDWINGS
6 JAYS
5-10 GOLDCRESTS
1 GREY HERON north
40+ BLACKBIRDS
Saturday, 19 December 2009
19/12/2009
the wooded footpath, post 657A very photographic post for once! Finally got a chance to do some prolonged daytime birding at the Downs and I wasn't disappointed. I was hoping that waterfowl of some description would fly over today given the weather conditions, but I wasn't expecting much so it was a brilliant surprise to catch 6 LAPWINGS as they flew roughly west south west over, in the distance. I managed one or two really dire record shots of 5 of them. This was a nice Banstead Downs tick and puts me on 72 for the Downs and for the 69 year.
Lapwings
It seems that a few other people throughout London have been treated to over-head Lapwings today at sites like the Downs, where they are always exciting.
2 FIRECRESTS remained along the wooded footpath at the golf course and showed well in the snowy bushes there, allowing for some record shots of them in the snow. I am going to try to get a good photo of them soon. I've realised how bad my best one (from last year) is in comparison to my Firecrest shots from the New Forest. SEE THE LEFT OF THE BLOG FOR DIRECTIONS ETC.
Firecrest
Another pleasant surprise came in the same of 4 (almost certainly 4, anyway) BLACKCAPS at the eastern section of the golf course. 1 male was seen at the woodland edge then 3 (1 male, 1 female +1 unsexed) showed together a bit further in, though this gathering could have involved the first individual.
male Blackcap
Redwing
the bike track2 FIELDFARES were in the scrub at the back of the central/east enclosures and 30-40 REDWINGS (very rough) were in the area as a whole.
FieldfareFlyovers, other than the Lapwings, included 1 COMMON GULL and 1 PIED WAGTAIL.
1 MEADOW PIPIT was heard calling at the south end of the eastern enclosure and a pair of BULLFINCHES showed (for once) just south of the central enclosure.
BullfinchLONG-TAILED TITS, BLUE TITS and GREAT TITS were in evidence today.
Long-tailed Tit2 JAYS were noted.
JayWOODPECKERS were represented by singles of both GREEN and GREAT SPOTTED.
MAGPIES, CARRION CROWS and WOODPIGEONS were, as usual, obvious.
BLACKBIRDS were in evidence with between 10 and 20 seen today.
Blackbird (1st winter male)A probable Linnet was heard briefly.
A very enjoyable day in all.
IN OTHER NEWS
1 COAL TIT was calling at Burdon Lane.
Friday, 18 December 2009
In other news- 18/12/2009
6 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS over, very near Banstead Downs, at Belmont early afternoon.
In other news- 14/12/2009
Thanks to Mark Stanley for this news from Canon's Farm
1 LITTLE OWL was noted by another observer, and Mark is pretty sure that he saw the bird in flight.
The COMMON BUZZARD remains, it was being seen off by ROOKS. Thrushes included 100+ FIELDFARE and 20+ REDWINGS also 2 MISTLE THRUSHES and a SONG THRUSH. Finches were represented by 25+ LINNET and a flock of 150+ finches, containing CHAFFINCHES and several other unidentified finches.
2 GREY HERONS were standing in the middle of the 'Big Field' and 12 SKYLARK were in the field opposite Canon's Farmhouse.
3 JAYS were seen together in a single bare oak tree.
1 GREEN WOODPECKER was noted and a nice male BULLFINCH showed well.
A single COMMON GULL was seen with a group of BLACK-HEADED GULLS.
Also 3 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over.
1 LITTLE OWL was noted by another observer, and Mark is pretty sure that he saw the bird in flight.
The COMMON BUZZARD remains, it was being seen off by ROOKS. Thrushes included 100+ FIELDFARE and 20+ REDWINGS also 2 MISTLE THRUSHES and a SONG THRUSH. Finches were represented by 25+ LINNET and a flock of 150+ finches, containing CHAFFINCHES and several other unidentified finches.
2 GREY HERONS were standing in the middle of the 'Big Field' and 12 SKYLARK were in the field opposite Canon's Farmhouse.
3 JAYS were seen together in a single bare oak tree.
1 GREEN WOODPECKER was noted and a nice male BULLFINCH showed well.
A single COMMON GULL was seen with a group of BLACK-HEADED GULLS.
Also 3 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over.
Tuesday, 15 December 2009
Sutton Pied Wagtail roost again
127 PIED WAGTAILS counted in the roost tree outside of Waterstones yesterday (14/12/2009) afternoon from c.15:58-c.16:20 making an average of 5.8 birds entering the roost per minute. Both the count and the average are down on last time, despite it probably being colder. I could have sworn that some birds that flew onto the rooves to wait to enter the roost didn't enter in the end (I count birds as they enter the tree only), so there were probably more roosting elsewhere?
15/12/2009
A trip to the golf course today produced 2 FIRECRESTS which were showing, though very elusive, near telephone wire pole 678 along the wooded footpath at 16:02, just before dusk. See left side of page for viewing instructions. Also, towards the beginning of the wooded footpath a GOLDCREST called. 1 JAY was present along the wooded footpath. 2 CHAFFINCHES were also noted as well as a showy WREN and a handful of the other usuals.
IN OTHER NEWS
A scattering of birds that just about justify a mention in the notebook, around the Belmont area today.
At Overton Park today a GREY HERON flew low in a west-ish direction and 2 PIED WAGTAILS were present from c.0810 to c.1345 at least.
Nearby, a GREY WAGTAIL was heard flying over Ventor Avenue.
At Burdon Lane, Belmont, 5+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over.
In Belmont Village at the church a single REDWING showed well in one of the bushes viewable from the north end of station road, this is the first showy local individual that I have seen this winter.
IN OTHER NEWS
A scattering of birds that just about justify a mention in the notebook, around the Belmont area today.
At Overton Park today a GREY HERON flew low in a west-ish direction and 2 PIED WAGTAILS were present from c.0810 to c.1345 at least.
Nearby, a GREY WAGTAIL was heard flying over Ventor Avenue.
At Burdon Lane, Belmont, 5+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over.
In Belmont Village at the church a single REDWING showed well in one of the bushes viewable from the north end of station road, this is the first showy local individual that I have seen this winter.
Sunday, 13 December 2009
Sutton Pied Wagtail roost
Yesterday (12/12/2009) Kevin McManus and myself attempted a count of the Pied Wagtail roost at Sutton. Birds started coming in at c.16:05 and no new birds arrived after c.16:22. During this c.17 minute period, 160 PIED WAGTAILS (give or take a couple, maybe) flew in to roost in a single tree near Waterstones along Sutton High Street, giving an average of 9.4 birds arriving per minute. A great birding spectacle in the local area.
In other news- Canon's Farm
Yellowhammer
Been there both days of the weekend with Kevin McManus. Saturday was particulary good with mostly good weather and some good local birds.
CANON'S FARM/BANSTEAD WOOD 12/12/2009
Best birds were:
2 BRAMBLINGS- in north eastern most field at edge of Banstead Wood with CHAFFINCHES
1 COMMON BUZZARD feeding in the 'Big Field'
36 YELLOWHAMMERS
158+ FIELDFARES
50-100 REDWINGS
25 SKYLARKS
450 CHAFFINCHES
100+ LINNET
1 LESSER REDPOLL
Also
1+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET
10-20 GREENFINCH (very rough)
c.10 HOUSE SPARROWS
up to 10 GOLDFINCH
c.5 COMMON GULLS
c.30 BLACK-HEADED GULLS (very rough)
10+ HERRING GULLS
50+ STARLINGS (very rough)
c.30 JACKDAWS (very rough)
CARRION CROWS
WOODPIGEONS
MAGPIES
etc
In the more wooded areas the following were noted
2 COAL TIT (1 of which at Banstead Wood)
1+ TREECREEPER
c.5 NUTHATCHES (3 of which at Banstead Wood)
3+ GOLDCRESTS (1+ of which at Banstead Wood)
2 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS (1 of which at Banstead Wood)
On the bus, approaching Banstead a female/immature SPARROWHAWK flew in front of the bus and into an alleyway
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CANON'S FARM 13/12/2009
Not quite as good but still an enjoyable day, the Sunday was a bit wetter.
5+ YELLOWHAMMERS
1 COMMON BUZZARD still in the 'Big Field'
1 LITTLE OWL heard near/at edge of BANSTEAD WOOD.
c.250 CHAFFINCHES
c.100 FIELDFARES (very rough)
c.50 REDWINGS (very rough)
6 MISTLE THRUSHES
3 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS
c.20 LINNET (very rough)
1 GREY HERON in field near COMMON BUZZARD's favoured area
10-15 MEADOW PIPITS
1+ SKYLARK
2 GREEN WOODPECKERS
2 GOLDCRESTS
2 REDPOLLS (presumably LESSER)
2+ GOLDFINCH
2+ GREENFINCH
10-20 HOUSE SPARROWS
c.20 STOCK DOVES
also
1+ ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET
7 COLLARED DOVES together in the residential area at the beginning of Canon's Lane
up to 5 HERRING GULLS
up to 5 COMMON GULLS
c.30 BLACK-HEADED GULLS (very rough)
20-30 STARLINGS
1 ROBIN
1 WREN
2 DUNNOCKS
c.30 JACKDAWS (very rough)
CARRION CROWS
WOODPIGEONS
MAGPIES
etc
At Epsom Downs 1 KESTREL was sitting on a street light also PIED WAGTAIL in car park near the Lunch Box not seen by me, and a handful of BLACK-HEADED GULLS around there.
Friday, 11 December 2009
In other news- 11/12/2009
You've probably noticed that there's been even less to report in the few weeks. The birding in the local area has certainly slowed down a lot more!
At Overton Park today 2 PIED WAGTAILS were present as was at least 1 COMMON GULL along with c.30 BLACK-HEADED GULLS. c.10 STARLINGS were feeding on the playing field also.
At Overton Park today 2 PIED WAGTAILS were present as was at least 1 COMMON GULL along with c.30 BLACK-HEADED GULLS. c.10 STARLINGS were feeding on the playing field also.
In other news- 10/12/2009
Near Banstead Downs, at Belmont Pastures this afternoon there was a decent variety of common birds noted considering the site and time of day. I saw more variety than I usually do at the Downs because it doesn't take nearly as long to get there.
The highlight was 3 SONG THRUSHES. 2 sang and showed and the other flew through, calling. Going along with the theme of Thrushes, 1 Fieldfare/Mistle Thrush flew distantly past seen with the naked eye only and 1 MISTLE THRUSH was heard alarm calling at the north end. 3 BLACKBIRDS were noted.
2 DUNNOCKS sang and c.4 WRENS were logged. c.5 ROBINS were active.
4 BLUE TITS, 2 GREAT TITS and 1 LONG-TAILED TIT were noted. 10-15 WOODPIGEONS were present as were 2+ CARRION CROWS (with another 2 flying over).
17 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over (a flock of 10, then 6, then 1) in a roughly easterly direction.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next door, this am at Belmont Park a PIED WAGTAIL was feeding along the concrete path there and c.5 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over then also.
The highlight was 3 SONG THRUSHES. 2 sang and showed and the other flew through, calling. Going along with the theme of Thrushes, 1 Fieldfare/Mistle Thrush flew distantly past seen with the naked eye only and 1 MISTLE THRUSH was heard alarm calling at the north end. 3 BLACKBIRDS were noted.
2 DUNNOCKS sang and c.4 WRENS were logged. c.5 ROBINS were active.
4 BLUE TITS, 2 GREAT TITS and 1 LONG-TAILED TIT were noted. 10-15 WOODPIGEONS were present as were 2+ CARRION CROWS (with another 2 flying over).
17 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over (a flock of 10, then 6, then 1) in a roughly easterly direction.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next door, this am at Belmont Park a PIED WAGTAIL was feeding along the concrete path there and c.5 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over then also.
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
late news- 05/12/2009
Mark Stanley saw two of the FIRECRESTS at the golf course c.50 yards past post 657 along the wooded footpath on 05/12/2009. They were feeding actively and showing well. He also noted a single MISTLE THRUSH and 10-12 REDWINGS.
09/12/2009
Golf Course today was more productive with 1+ FIRECREST heard and seen briefly near post 1. at 16:07.
c.5 REDWINGS, a WREN and c.5 BLACKBIRDS were seen as well as 1+ ROBIN etc.
Other than that very little else was seen.
IN OTHER NEWS
1 PIED WAGTAIL still at Overton Park. A MISTLE THRUSH was at Belmont Park and c.7 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over there.
c.5 REDWINGS, a WREN and c.5 BLACKBIRDS were seen as well as 1+ ROBIN etc.
Other than that very little else was seen.
IN OTHER NEWS
1 PIED WAGTAIL still at Overton Park. A MISTLE THRUSH was at Belmont Park and c.7 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over there.
08/12/2009
Better weather at the golf course and stayed the usual short amount of time before dark but still saw nothing
IN OTHER NEWS
c.23 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over Burdon Lane
IN OTHER NEWS
c.23 ROSE-RINGED PARAKEETS flew over Burdon Lane
07/12/2009
Went up to the golf course today and it was raining and getting dark. Didn't stay long and saw nothing.
Sunday, 6 December 2009
In other news- 06/12/2009
Went to Epsom Common this afternoon. Contrary to the good range of common birds I was expecting with maybe Mandarin or Yellowhammer etc, it was very, very dead . . . The highlights were a showy CORMORANT on the large stew pond with a GREY HERON there was also a BLACK-HEADED GULL there which saw off another that was thinking of settling. A drake MALLARD swam alongside walkers in the hope of bread. There was also a pair on the small stew pond. 1+ MOORHEN was on the small stew pond and at least 1 other was on the larger one. 2 LESSER (presumed) REDPOLLS flew over the large stew pond as did a single HERRING GULL. A JAY was nearby. 2 MAGPIE, c.5 CARRION CROW and c.2 WOODPIGEON represented the ubiquitous trio. 2+ WRENS and 2 ROBINS were noted. c.5 REDWING were logged and a single FIELDFARE called. 1 COAL TIT, up to 5 LONG-TAILED TITS, 2 or 3 BLUE TITS and 1 or 2 GREAT TITS were seen or heard today. c.20 FERAL PIGEONS flew over as did up to 5 JACKDAWS. Very quiet and disappointing with not even a single Mandarin to add some excitement to the day but it was a pleasant walk with Phil in some lovely weather.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
