by Andrew (Andy) M Hanby
Whooper Swans arriving at Langwith Lake Andy Hanby
The first day of the month included a few birds which proved thematic for the month in general. These included 19 Whooper Swans flying north-east, the first of 471 moving through in total, with a peak of 178 on 3rd. The 140 which accumulated on the Reserve on 2nd are not included in the moving totals. The month also started with over 100 Shoveler present, the numbers of which continued to climb, peaking at a very healthy 134 on 15th. Great White Egret was recorded on 20 days, with two present on 5th.
Great White Egret, Flasks Lake Nathan Beer
On 2nd, a Redwing influx totalled 351, a Stonechat re-appeared at Langwith Lake and two Tree Sparrows were still by Well bend. The first sighting an adult Mediterranean Gull was on 3rd, followed by six further observations of up to two of these attractive birds.
On 6th, four Avocet were present and thereafter, these were generally around, peaking at six on 21st and 31st. On the same date, Dipper was finally added to the area year list and impressive counts of 74 Yellowhammer, seven Grey Wagtail and 122 Tufted Duck were made.
Nineteen Pintail were counted on 8th and three Barn Owl – the latter reflecting the likely three pairs in the recording area.
Barn Owl, Well bend Andy Hanby
On 11th, the “find of the month”, a Green-winged Teal was found on Lingham Lake, which lingered until at least 22nd, although it was typically elusive.
Green-winged Teal Dave Ward
Two Barnacle Geese on 13th and 14th added variety, but probably not excitement. Dunlin, present in good numbers throughout March, also peaked on 13th, with 117 counted.
Two Grey Plover moving north-west on 15th, were first for the year and preceded the best visible migration day of the month, with 1587 Fieldfare heading north and the first Sand Martin (six) also passing through north. From thereon, Sand Martin accumulated, peaking at 48 about and 14 north on 20th. The latter day was also brightened by the presence of two singing Corn Buntings in the South Henge/East Tanfield Quarry area.
On 21st, a pair of Mandarin Duck put in an appearance, a Knot was on the Reserve and a female
Marsh Harrier headed south over Ladybridge Lake. Three days later, on 24th, Wheatear and Little Ringed Plover were added to the year’s tally.
The ever-present Black-tailed Godwit flock and the first Little Ringed Plover of spring
Tim Scott and Tim Jones respectively
The 26th was a great day for one lucky visitor, with an Osprey over Flasks Lake - unfortunately not seen by any of the regulars.
The ‘plastic fantastic’ tally was augmented by Egyptian Goose, found by Ladybridge Lake on 28th, where it was subsequently seen on and off into April.
Egyptian Goose Tim Jones
The first Willow Warbler put in an appearance on 29th, a Wheatear was located at the South Henge and a Brambling frequented the feeders along Green Lane.
The month ended well, with Common Sandpiper and five Little Gulls.
Little Gull Tim Jones
Andy Hanby 14/04/2024