We’ve really punched above our weight (cp east coast) with these over the last few days courtesy probably of redirecting birds from the main landfalls on eg the northern isles
Heysham Nature reserve
At least one around the fire pond area above the office on 13/10 and one heard calling near the marsh on the same day. None located in inclement weather until 16/10 when Craig Bell’s persistence in limited viewing of the pond area above the office paid dividends with two briefly in the same bush and some decent pics. No coverage on 17/10 then 18/10 saw one calling near the dipping pond at lunchtime and apparently seen/heard later
Middleton NR
One ringed on 18/10
Pilling Lane ends
Probably the same elusively 13-17/10
In addition one was seen just outside the area at Kents Bank
Coverage has not been brilliant with key observers doing bird surveys out of the area and Sunderland Point in particular has not received any ‘bush-dissecting’ coverage I’m aware of. The forecast this week looks interesting with Firecrest very much on the realistic agenda given the synopses and records elsewhere and longshots always a possibility. Thursday looks particularly tasty after the dawn rain with lightish winds and unfortunately there will be no mist netting coverage at Heysham or Middleton NR I am aware of. So well worth allocating a few hours to sheltered coastal vegetation searching this week
