St Austell Baywatch

Around the Bay

2012-02-01T19:50:00.001Z

Report: Derek Julian
Male Ring Neck Duck still at Par beach pool
Female Goosander at St Andrews Pool, Par.

Thanks for the report Derek. A

Chiffchaff

2012-01-26T22:21:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Nigel Climpson

Whilst watching three Black Redstarts at the rock pile on Spit Beach this morning this Chiffchaff joined in the insect chasing. Also seven Great Grested Grebes just offshore.

Another nice photograph Nigel.

Butterfly & Moth Field Meeting 2012

2012-01-26T20:10:00.001Z

I am delighted to attach the confirmed list of Butterfly & Moth Field Meetings for Spring & Summer 2012 in Cornwall. I have compiled this list for Cornwall Butterfly Conservation (Butterfly Conservation Cornwall Branch).

Please feel free to attend one or more of these or pass on or publicise these events in whatever publication you feel suitable that may inform anyone interested in learning more about Cornwall's Butterflies. There is no charge to attend any event and you/anyone attending does not have to be a member of Butterfly Conservation.

This is my 20th year of compiling the county's fieldtrips/meetings for Cornwall Butterfly Conservation and this year we can offer 27 different events, most of which are arranged by Cornwall Butterfly Conservation. The Moth events are arranged by Cornwall Moth Group and we are indebted to them for allowing us to include their events in our listings.

Have a good season for 2012.

Stay lucky,

Lee Slaughter (Fieldtrip Organiser),

Cornwall Butterfly Conservation.

Cornwall Butterfly Conservation Butterfly and Moth Field Meetings 2012.

Compiled by Lee Slaughter – Field Trip Organiser

Celebrating 20 glorious years of butterfly & moth meetings

across Cornwall.

Saturday 21st April – 10:30am – Murrayton Monkey Sanctuary, Millendreath, nr Looe.

This is a special early visit to the Millendreath to Seaton coastal footpath to search for

Britain

’s earliest flying Pearl-Bordered Fritillary butterflies. Yes; you can see the Pearl-Bordered Fritillary in April in Cornwall given reasonable weather! This unique habitat, some of which is an ancient landslip, provides the ideal microclimate needed for this species to be on the wing up to 3 weeks earlier than elsewhere in Cornwall so don’t miss this opportunity to see this for yourselves. Walking boots are a must due to steep terrain and bring food & drink too! Access is through strictly private land at Murrayton Monkey Sanctuary which will be closed so all attending should be ready to be guided through to the cliff path by the leader at 10:30am from the Monkey Sanctuary car park. Pearl-Bordered Fritillary, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Green-Veined White, Small Copper, Holly Blue, Orange Tip & possible Dingy Skipper will hopefully be seen today.

Leader - Paddy Saunders. Meet at map ref - SX285546; Murrayton Monkey Sanctuary Car Park.

For full details and directions phone Paddy Saunders on 01503 262567.

Saturday 28th April – 11:00am – Marsland Nature Reserve, Gooseham Mill, nr. Morwenstow, North Cornwall.

The warden of this excellent nature reserve is Gary Pilkington who was a founder member and former chairman of Cornwall Butterfly Conservation. He will give a conducted tour of his reserve which will include a large colony of Pearl-Bordered Fritillary butterflies for which parts of this reserve are specifically managed. Other spring flying species should be seen. You will need stout footwear & packed lunch & drink. Due to very limited parking, attendance is strictly limited to just 10 people and those wishing to definitely visit must phone Lee Slaughter on – 01726 817505 to reserve a place. Cars should be shared or parked at a pre-arranged place to enable car sharing to park next to the reserve as parking limited to no more than 3 cars.

Leader – Gary Pilkington (warden). Meet at map ref – SS231172.

For details & exact directions phone Gary Pilkington on 01288 331266 and Lee Slaughter (to book your place) on 01726 817505.

Saturday 5^th May – 11:00am –Perransands/Penhale Sands, nr. Perranporth.

Perransands/Penhale Sands hold Cornwall’s best colonies of Grizzled Skippers which although highly localised will hopefully be found in suitable looking habitat amongst this vast dune complex. We hope to possibly find the special aberration called ‘taras’ which is sometimes found at this locality amongst some of the Grizzled Skipper colonies. Other species which should be found include Brown Argus, Wall Brown, Dingy Skipper, Common Blue, Small Copper and Orange Tip.

Leader – Paul Browning. Meet at map ref – SW774553 in lay-by on edge of road opposite the turning to Rose village by entrance to footpath onto sand dunes.

For details and directions phone Paul Browning on 01736 763677.

Sunday May 6^th – 10:00 onwards - 'A Day for Nature' at Stithians Lake which is situated between Falmouth and Redruth.

'A Day for Nature' sponsored by SW Lakes is an event in which RSPB, BTO, CBWPS,CWT, SW Lakes, Cornwall Bat Group, Cornwall Mammal Group and ourselves, Cornwall Butterfly Conservation are participating.
It will include stalls/stands in the Conference Rooms near the Water Sports Centre between the hours of 10-00am and 4-00pm, a raffle, a bird ringing demonstration will take place during the morning subject to the weather, a joint bird/ butterfly walk ( time to be advised ) and an opportunity to meet and make friends with other conservation minded people.
Our website will be updated when further details are available but in the meantime Keith Wilson our Membership Secretary will help with your questions and give directions. Keith can be contacted by email at trelusback_farm@hotmail.co.uk or by telephone 01209-860298 and 07972-376982.

Saturday 12^th May – 2:00pm – Bunny’s Hill, nr. Cardinham, Bodmin Moor.

Bunny’s Hill is an easily accessible site and is one of the best places in Cornwall to see the Pearl-Bordered Fritillary butterfly at close quarters. Much habitat conservation work is being carried out here to ensure the continued existence of both Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary and the rarer Pearl-Bordered Fritillary. There were in excess of 100 adult butterflies on the wing here last May during our fieldtrip of these species so there is much expectation for this year’s fieldtrip! Please do bring your camera as photography is comparatively easy at this locality. Brimstones are usually seen together with Small Heath, Holly Blue, Orange Tip and possible Dingy Skipper. There is plenty of parking available.

Leader – Lee Slaughter. Meet at map ref – SX117675 at fork in road, with further parking 50 yards up track.

For details and directions phone Lee Slaughter on 01726 817505.

Saturday 19th May – 2:00pm – Fellover Brake, Tuckingmill, St. Breward.

This site still holds one of Cornwall’s finest colonies of the nationally threatened Pearl-Bordered Fritillary butterfly which can be seen over a wide area of well managed bracken covered hillside. Walking boots are essential as the site slopes quite steeply and can be quite uneven in places. Orange Tip & Brimstone should also still be on the wing.

Leader – Phil Harris. Meet at SX089779, in small lay-by at Gam Bridge.

For details and directions phone Phil Harris on 07754 583101.

Saturday 26^th May – 1:00pm – Breney Common, nr. Lanlivery.

Our annual visit to probably Cornwall’s largest Marsh Fritillary colony. Good numbers of this species should be seen together with Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary, Small Heath, Brimstone, Green Hairstreak and always a few interesting moths too! Photography is almost always easy here so do bring your camera and walking boots.

Leader – Phil Boggis. Meet at SX053611, small roadside car park near Gunwen Chapel.

For details and directions phone Phil Boggis on 01726 66124.

Sunday 27^th May – 11:00am – Predannack Head, South of Mullion.

A cliff walk to hopefully view one of the best sites recently discovered in Cornwall for the rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly plus other interesting late Spring butterflies. The lengthy walk also includes a flooded quarry where dragonflies could be seen. Length of walk about 3 miles so ensure you have packed lunch & plenty of drink & sun cream as well as suitable clothing in case of inclement weather.

Leaders – Frank Johns, assisted by Lawrie & Helen Oakes. Meet at SW668162, National Trust Windy Ridge car park at 11:00am or just before.

For details and directions phone Frank Johns on – 01326 240357.

Sunday 3rd June – 11:00am – Chapel Porth, nr. St Agnes.

Our first meeting at this location last year produced over 75 Green Hairstreaks together with many other species including Silver Studded Blue, Common Blue, Large Skipper and Small Heath. The shallow seepages & boggy runnels along the valley just behind the cafe at Chapel Porth are in good shape for observing dragonflies. Walking boots, drink & sun cream essential. Terrain is steep and rough in places and the views are stunning!
Leaders – Shaun & Jo Poland lead their first ever field trip! An event not to be missed

Meet at SW697495, in Chapel Porth N.T. beach car park
For details and directions phone Shaun or Jo Poland on 01872 540371, or 07800 548832

Saturday 9^th June – 1:00pm – Greenscoombe Woods, Luckett.

Organised jointly for both Cornwall Butterfly Conservation and for Cornwall Wildlife Trust (who are celebrating their 50 year anniversary since its formation in 1962, this year).

One of

Britain

’s rarest butterflies, the Heath Fritillary, solely exists in Cornwall in the specially managed habitat, at its original main Cornish colony at Greenscoombe Woods, Luckett after it became extinct there after 2002. After it’s re-introduction to parts of the woodlands in the summer of 2006 it has become re-established and re-colonised it’s former habitat which has been much improved by clearance and regular habitat management work. We are grateful to local recorder and expert on this species, Richard Vulliamy who will lead us around, showing us the best areas to observe them. The butterfly is breeding well in a number of different areas at Greenscoombe Woods and it is always a joy for enthusiasts from Cornwall, Devon and often much further afield to visit these woods to marvel at the many Heath Fritillary butterflies that are to be seen throughout June every year. Bring a drink and your camera.

Leader – Richard Vulliamy. Meet at SX389737 in Luckett Village car park.

For details and directions phone Richard Vulliamy on 01579 370411.

Sunday 10^th June –11:00am Bosigran, nr.Rosemergie (engine houses), 8 miles west of St Ives

A superb and energetic walk along the most South-Westerly coastline of England which, given good weather, should yield excellent numbers of Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillaries, Small Heaths, Green Hairstreaks, Meadow Browns, possibly Silver-Studded Blues & Dark Green Fritillaries. Other possibilities include migratory Clouded Yellows, Painted Ladies, Humming Bird Hawk-Moths and other migratory species. Please bring a packed lunch, drink, sun cream and good walking boots.

Leader Phil Harris. Meet at SW421364, in car park besides B3306 road just east of Rosemergy.

For full details and directions phone Phil Harris on 07754 583101.

Friday 15^th June – 9:30pm Lower Cabilla Wood, Glyn Valley, nr. Bodmin (C.W.T.Reserve).

Organised by Cornwall Moth Group. All Cornwall Butterfly Conservation members and other interested people are welcome to attend. We look forward to seeing and recording scores of beautiful summer flying moths which should include the large & impressive Hawk-Moths. There are always many moths to be seen in this wood so there may be new discoveries awaiting us.

Leader – Phil Boggis. Meet at SX129653 in sawmill car park at entrance to reserve.

For details and directions phone Phil Boggis on 01726 66124.

Saturday 16th June – 2:00pm Perran Sands and Penhale Sands, nr. Perranporth.

A Mid-summer ramble over

Britain

’s highest sand dunes complex to see large numbers of freshly emerged Silver-Studded Blues. We would also hope to see Large Skippers, Small Skippers, Meadow Browns, Common Blues, Dark Green Fritillary, Scarlet Tiger Moth and Humming Bird Hawk-Moth & other scarce moths & plenty of wild flowers. This event always turns up unexpected surprises in moths or butterflies. Please bring plenty to drink, a sun hat, sun protection and good walking boots.

Leaders - Lee Slaughter and Phil Boggis. Meet at SW774553 in lay-by on edge of road opposite the turning to Rose.

For details and directions phone Lee Slaughter on 01726 817505 or Phil Boggis on 01726 66124.

Sunday 17^th June –11:00am Porkellis Moor, Wendron, Nr. Helston.

An interesting walk through this habitat that is being restored with targeted conservation work aimed at encouraging more species of butterflies, moths and dragonflies to inhabit this damp area. The Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary has been recorded here along with Ringlets, Small Heaths, Meadow Browns, Common Blues, Large Skippers and good numbers of several species of dragonflies including the nationally scarce Small Red Damselfly. Please bring a packed lunch, drink, sun cream and wellington boots as there are quite a few wet areas where we will walk.

Leader - Jack Keeping. Meet at SW689325.

For full details and directions phone Jack Keeping on 07817 251075.

Friday 22^nd June – 9:30pm – Watergate, West Looe Valley, Looe.

Mid-summer mothing for the Scarce Merveille Du Jour Moth.

Organised by Cornwall Moth Group.

The sedentary Scarce Merveille Du Jour moth has almost certainly continuously bred in the West Looe Valley on Oak trees since shortly after the last Ice Age! It is proposed to re-visit a site a few miles up the West Looe valley from Kilminorth woods at Watergate (SX234545) where there is a distinct possibility that the Scarce Merveille du Jour moth may still be lurking undiscovered. There are some mature oaks near to the water’s edge on the footpath leading south. The moth light will be on from dusk until late but meet at 9:30pm. Expect to see & record many dozens of summer flying moths at this meeting! Bring a torch as no artificial lights nearby.

Leader - Phil Boggis. Meet at SX234545. Plenty of parking is available up the lane from the West Looe River’s grassy floodplain.

For full details and directions phone Phil Boggis on 01726 66124.

Saturday 23rd June – 11:00am – Poldice, St Day.

A repeat of last year’s successful maiden field trip to this very interesting locality. We will be searching heathland on old mining landscape at St Day for newly emerged Silver-Studded Blues of the ‘heathland’ type. These are special to Cornwall as most counties have lost their colonies of this species. Grayling & other summer species such as Large Skipper & Ringlet should be seen too. Walking boots, drink & sun cream essential.

Leaders – Phil Harris and Keith Wilson. Meet at SW737426, in lay-by at Poldice.

For details/directions phone Phil Harris on 07754 583101, or Keith on 01209 860298.

Friday 29^th June – 9:30pm – Pontsmill, nr. Penpillick Hill, St. Blazey, Par.

Mid-summer Moths at Pontsmill.

Organised by Cornwall Moth Group in conjunction with “The Friends of Luxulyan Valley”. All C.M.G. and Cornwall Butterfly Conservation members as well as anyone interested in moths are welcome at this meeting.

A moth evening of recording together with Cornwall Moth Group and “The Friends of Luxulyan Valley”. This event will begin at dusk and you should bring Wellies and a torch. Plenty of parking is available in the main Pontsmill car park. Past mothing events here have recorded over 125 different species of moth for one night’s recording! The larger species of Hawk-Moths should be seen at this meeting too! It will finish after Midnight but you can leave before if you want.

Leader - Phil Boggis. Meet at SX073561 in the car park at the end of the single track road.

For details and directions phone Phil Boggis on 01726 66124.

Saturday 30th June 2.00pm ‘Lethytep’, Penadlake, Lanreath - SX175588.

Philip & Faith Hambly invite all Cornwall Butterfly Conservation members & friends to view their Wildlife area where there will be a covered area to eat lunch. Hot drinks + toilet will be available. At 2:00pm there will be welcome from Philip, who will inform visitors about the Wildlife area with its walks & lakes. It is to be hoped that many mid-summer species of butterfly will be flying. Cornwall Butterfly Conservation will also have displays on show and have literature for sale etc.

To get to Lethytep, turn south just before or just after Middle Taphouse on the A390 Liskeard - Lostwithiel road. Look out for the brown sign to Animal Land and follow this. There will be further small signs directing you the correct way.

Leader - Philip Hambly. Meet at SX175588 in field next to house; (parking for 100+ cars).

For full details phone Philip Hambly on 01503 220385

Sunday 1st July – 11:00am Upton Towans, nr. Hayle.

A delightful walk through the extensive Gwithian to Hayle sand dune complex at Upton Towans. This area, which is managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust, was previously the site for the manufacture of dynamite. We usually see significant numbers of newly emerged Dark Green Fritillaries and hundreds of Silver-Studded Blues as well as a wide variety of other butterflies and moths. Please bring a packed lunch, drink, sun cream, and good walking boots or rainwear if weather is unsettled.

Leader – Dick Goodere. Meet at SW579396 by the gate, in front of the large chimney at the entrance to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust area.

For full details and directions phone Dick and Maggie Goodere on 01736 753077.

Saturday 7^th July – 1:00pm Delabole Quarry, Delabole, Nr. Camelford.

This is an excellent site for our fieldtrips and we are grateful to Dave Conway for leading this meeting for our group. Previous visits made here by several Cornwall branch members have produced many sightings of Marbled Whites and Graylings which are not often seen on our field meetings. Graylings are not often found inland in Cornwall and the discovery of good numbers at this location is good news for the species in our county where it is now mainly restricted to parts of the coast. Walking boots essential.

Leader – Dave Conway. Meet at SX074836 in Delabole Quarry Car Park by visitor centre.

For details and directions phone Dave Conway on 01208 77686.

Saturday 14^th July – 2:00pm Godolphin Woods, West of Helston

Don’t miss this excellent chance to see Purple Hairstreaks at this wonderful location. Come & support Carly Hoskin as she leads her 1^st field meeting for butterflies. It may be productive to stay here until early evening as more Purple Hairstreaks fly later in the day if the weather is warm. Bring adequate food & drink, binoculars and your camera.

Leader – Carly Hoskin. Meet at SW603321 by white gate of Blowing House.

For details and directions phone Carly Hoskin on 01326 563462.

Sunday 15^th July – 1:00pm Cabilla Wood, Glyn Valley, nr. Bodmin (C.W.T.Reserve).

We look forward to seeing many beautiful Silver-Washed Fritillary butterflies in this well managed woodland together with the bright summer form ‘hutchinsoni’ of the Comma butterfly with plenty of Ringlets, Gatekeepers, new brood Brimstones and Summer brood Holly Blues. There is always various day flying moths to be seen in this wood so there may be new discoveries awaiting us.

Leader – Dave Conway. Meet at SX128653 by sawmill.

For details and directions phone Dave Conway on 01208 77686.

Saturday 4^th August – 11:00am Trelusback Farm, Penhalvean, Redruth, TR16 6TQ.

Cornwall Butterfly Conservation Members ‘Open Day’.

A great locality which contains wildflower meadows, woodland, wetland and a lake. If the weather permits, visitors can expect to see a wide variety of butterflies, moths, birds and, dragonflies. Cornwall Butterfly Conservation is very indebted to Keith Wilson for hosting this event, who also keeps rare breeds poultry at the farm. This is an opportunity to meet and socialize with other members. If you can, bring a guest or two and introduce them to the delights and wonders of butterfly and wildlife conservation! Our branch members have assisted with conservation work & habitat restoration work this winter to return some of the land to suitable breeding habitat for a range of species and to attract nectaring species too!

A barn will be available for chatting, eating, coffee etc. A BBQ will hopefully be running as well if the weather is good. Please bring a packed lunch plus a cake or something sweet to share with other members and our guests. New members will be made very welcome; please introduce yourself to Keith, Jo or one of the other committee members.

Leader – Keith Wilson. Meet at 11:00am at Trelusback Farm (shown on the OS map as ‘Trelusback’ at map reference SW712384), which is about half a mile ‘from the western end of Stithian’s lake and about halfway between Stithians and Redruth. Those with “satnav” will be able to use the postcode (TR16 6TQ) to get to a red ‘phone box at the end of the driveway to Keith’s house. Proceed down this lane and the barn we are using is about 200 yards past the sandschool and bungalow.

For more detailed directions (or if you get lost) please phone Keith on 01209 860298 or if no reply 07972 376982 or phone Jo Poland on 01872 540371.

Sunday 12^th August – 11:00am Kynance Cove, nr. The Lizard.

Be prepared for a beautiful walk at this famous locality for Lepidoptera. We would certainly hope to see most of the following species: Grayling, Dark Green Fritillary, Clouded Yellow (including ‘Helice’), Small Heath, 2^nd brood Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary, Common Blue, Wall Brown, Gatekeeper, Painted Lady and Red Admiral. Please bring a packed lunch, drink, sun cream and good walking boots. Park in main Kynance Cove car park (car park fee payable to N.T.) and meet near the toilet block at the Southern end of the car park.

Leaders – Dave Spencer & Jack Keeping. Meet at SW688132 in main Kynance Cove Car Park.

For details/directions phone Dave Spencer on 01326 314533 or Jack Keeping on 07817 251075.

Friday 17^th August – 9:00pm Loe Bar Beach, Porthleven, Nr. Helston.

This is the first time we have ever had the privilege to be taken to the only known location in Great Britain of the Sandhill Rustic Moth subspecies ‘Luperina nickerlii leechi’. Adrian Spalding, who has studied in great detail the full life history and ecological requirements of this unique subspecies of moth, will show us the adult moths in their natural habitat on the fine shingle beach of Loe Bar where it was not discovered until 1974. You should wrap up well & bring a good torch as there is no nearby artificial light. Due to the sensitive nature of this site, those wishing to attend will need to reserve a place with Adrian Spalding himself by phoning him at work on 01872 272711.

Leader – Adrian Spalding. Meet at SW652236 down narrow track which leads to the south east end of Loe Bar Beach as far as cars can drive where there is small narrow car park at Chyvarloe (north of Gunwolloe).

For details/directions (and to reserve your place) phone Adrian Spalding on 01872 272711 (during the day).

Sunday 19^th August – 10:30am Gwennap Head and Porthgwarra.

This locality is situated within 4 miles of Lands End, the most South-Westerly point on the English mainland and should produce an abundance of butterflies. We should see Grayling, Dark Green Fritillary, Clouded Yellow (including ‘Helice’), Small Heath, 2^nd brood Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary, Common Blue, Wall Brown, Gatekeeper, Painted Lady and Red Admiral. This has been a transect here since 2010 and the land is being partly managed by the RSPB for the Chough. Please bring a packed lunch, drink, sun cream and good walking boots. Park in Porthgwarra car park where there is a cafe & toilets. Pay & display car park in operation.

Leader – Jim Barker. Meet at SW372218 in main Porthgwarra car Park.

For full details and directions phone Jim Barker on 01736 794134.

Saturday 8th September – 1:00pm Lantic Bay, Nr. Polruan.

A great way to round off the butterfly season in Cornwall with a highly scenic walk around Lantic Bay east of Polruan where we would hope to see many late summer butterflies & day-flying moths. This may be the best opportunity to see Clouded Yellow butterflies this year if any migrating butterflies came across the English Channel this season. Painted Ladies, Red Admiral, Wall Brown, Speckled Wood and possibly rarer species may be seen if we are lucky! Good walking boots & a packed lunch will be needed.

Leader Paddy Saunders. Meet at SX173517 in Lansallos car park.

For full details and directions phone Paddy Saunders on 01503 262567.

Around the Bay

2012-01-25T21:00:00.005Z

Report. Derek Julian

Ring Neck Duck still at Par Pool today.

Thanks for the report Derek. A

Around the Bay

2012-01-22T17:32:00.000Z

Report. Derek Julian

1.30pm - male Ring Neck Duck still at Par Pool;

4 Great Northern Diver and 57 Common Scoter off Porthpean this lunchtime.

Received at 4.57pm - Firecrest along footpath between Par & Polkerris.

Thanks for the report Derek. I managed to hack in, as Trevor is not about! Angie

Record Low

2012-01-21T21:50:00.000Z

The Baywatch Site has recorded its lowest ever number on the FatBirder's site. We are at number 58.
Wow! That is fantastic or a mistake.

Out and About

2012-01-21T21:46:00.000Z

Report. Angela Tonry.

A hit and miss report, as I was out with Molly, but noted what I could as follows:

Mevagissey Harbour: 2 Turnstone, 2 Mute Swan, c130 Herring Gull.

Caerhays: 7 Pheasant, 1 Red Legged Partridge, 4 Buzzard.

Par at dusk: top/river car park: 23 Goldfinch over. Pool: 2 Long Tailed Tits, 22 Magpies, 2 Dabchicks, 125 Canada Geese, 27 Mute Swan, 2 Collared Dove, 4 Wood Pigeon, 1 Shelduck, 4 Tufted Duck, 2 Snipe, 3 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 2 Dunnock, 7 Pied Wagtails, 1 Robin, 38 Starling, 1 Songthrush, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Kingfisher over the pool and heading in the direction of the river, as well as uncounted Coots, Moorhens, Mallards, Corvids, BH Gulls (c 40) & H Gulls.

Penrice: 12 Redwing, 2 Pheasant, 1 Tawny Owl and a large Corvid roost.

Thank you for the report Angie.

Around the Bay.

2012-01-17T23:18:00.000Z

Report Derek Julian.

Spent the afternoon in the St Austell Bay area. Recorded 68 Species, highlights included;

St Andrews Pool: 2 Shoveler, 6 Siskin and a Water Rail.

Par Beach Pool: Male Ring-necked Duck, 1 Shoveler, 11 Tufted Duck, 1 Water Rail, 1 Teal and 4 Bullfinch.

Par Sands: 30 Rock Pipit, 2+ Scandinavian Rock Pipit, 2 Water Pipit, 217 Pied Wagtail, 30 Turnstone, 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Black Redstart and 9 Great Crested Grebe.

Carlyon Bay: 26 Black-throated Diver, 6 Great Northern Diver, 8 Common Scoter and a Blackcap.

Porthpean: 6 Black-throated Diver, 2 Great Northern Diver, 25 Common Scoter and a Blackcap.

Pentewan: An Arctic Skua sat on the sea for 5 minutes before flying off west, 1 immature male Eider, 24 Common Gull, 2 male Bullfinch and 8 Blackcap.

St Austell Sewage Works: 8 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, a Dipper and 29 Carrion Crow.

13 Blackcap in a single January day is not bad.

Brilliant collection Derek. Arctic Skua was a good find for the Bay.

Spit Beach

2012-01-14T22:34:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andy Cross

I am pretty sure that this is a chiff chaff but please correct me if i am wrong. Is this a early visitor or a resident i photographed it at Spit beach .Spent a couple of hours on the beach on friday what a brill afternoon . Took some nice photos of the Black redstarts also a Goldcrest and watched a flock of 30 plus Curlews come in on the foreshore stunning also a Bullfinch on a branch coming up the path

Well done Andy. Looks like you had a really good day .

Visitors to the Hard Rock Cafe.

2012-01-12T11:07:00.000Z

St Andrews Pool ...*Hard Rock Cafe * and Swamp area.

Black Redstarts

2012-01-11T22:11:00.001Z

Report and photographs. Nigel Climpson

Good views of Redstarts at Spit Beach today, especially the male which seemed much shyer than the three females.

Nice photographs again Nigel

Pipits Galore

2012-01-10T22:53:00.000Z

Derek Julian Reports

Par Beach
2 Water Pipits
I Scandinavian Rock Pipit with 16 Rock Pipits

Nice collection of Pipits Derek.

Spit Report

2012-01-06T22:39:00.000Z

Report and photographs. Adrian Langdon

Hi Trevor & Ang,

I’ve attached a few pics of GC Grebes off of Spit this afternoon and of a Purple sand there also.

Full report is on my blog, http://www.images-naturally.co.uk/2012/01/waders-and-grebes-at-spit-beach-par.html

Thank you for the report and photographs Adrian. I can assume your visit was enjoyable and productive.

Yellow Browed Warbler

2012-01-06T10:32:00.000Z

Report. Marilyn Edyvean

Went to St Andrews Pool this morning (5th Jan) and saw a Yellow Browed Warbler in the wet area over the bridge by Hard Rock Cafe.

All the best

Well done Marilyn. The Hard Rock Cafe area is one of my favourite sites.

I hope it is around on my next visit.

Manoa Valley

2012-01-04T22:54:00.000Z

I had a quick look down the Manoa Valley 1200 hrs hoping to photograph the Dipper. The river was swollen and coloured making the Dipper's job rather difficult with most of the rocks submerged. After a lot of searching I saw one perched on a small rock about 40 yards downstream...a quick record shot was all I got and I never saw it again.
Chiffchaffs were out in fair numbers by the Sewage Works, also, Goldcrests, L.T Tits, Blue Tits Goldfinches, Coal Tit, Great Tits and a Wren although none were easy to photograph.

Golden Plover.

2012-01-02T21:54:00.001Z

Report and photographs. Andrew Carey

Good to see you and Angie out and about today. I managed to get a couple of shots of the ring-necked duck in sunshine, and also a small section of the golden plover flock on Penpillick Hill, early afternoon. Pics attached.

Thank you for the report and photographs Andrew.

We had a good day starting with the Golden Plover flock (estimate 300+). At St Andrews we caught up with a Marsh Tit and Water Rail. PBP we got to see the Ring-necked Duck followed by the first Stonechats, Little Egret and Rock Pipits of the year at the river and shoreline.

Manoa Valley coughed up....Grey Wagtail, Goldcrest and Chiffchaff plus the usual regulars.

A decent start to the year.

Ring Necked Duck and Black Redstarts

2012-01-02T18:02:00.000Z

Report and photographs. Nigel Climpson

Hi Trevor and a Happy New Year,

At last a fine day so here is a picture of the Ring-necked Duck at Par Beach Pool. Around at Spit Beach there were two female Black Redstarts and a Male on the rock pile by the harbour.

A nice trio of photographs Nigel.. Happy New Year to you also.

A Happy New Year.

2012-01-01T17:09:00.001Z

A Happy New Year to all the Baywatch Blog followers. I hope we can move forward a notch or two this year .
Thank you all for your support.

Ring Necked Duck

2012-01-01T17:04:00.001Z

Report and photographs.Andrew Carey

I'm pleased to say that the New Year Ring-necked Duck that arrived yesterday was still there waiting to be photographed in the rain this morning, along with the Little Gull. A Happy New Year to you all, and your readers too. Pics attached.

Thank you for the report and photographs Andrew.

Firecrest.

2011-12-28T11:53:00.000Z

Report. Lilahstewart

One found dead in a garden today in boscundel,tregrehan,st austell

We were lucky to have one visit the garden on Christmas Day along with a male and female Blackcap.

Great Northern Diver

2011-12-27T20:30:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Nigel Climpson

Sadly not a Pacific Diver but a Great Northen inside Par Harbour this morning.

Nigel

Nice photograph Nigel.

Around the Bay

2011-12-27T20:24:00.000Z

Report. Derek Julian

A quick look around St Austell today, highlights below;

Off Porthpean this afternoon, 7 Black-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 4 Wigeon and a single Kittiwake.

No sign of the Little Gull at Par Beach Pool just after lunch, (but can be very elusive). Species included 153 Canada Goose, 17 Mute Swan, 34 Coot, 24 Moorhen, 5 Tufted Duck and a Common Gull.

At St Andrews Pool, Par 4 Siskin and a Chiffchaff were of note.

Best wishes and seasons greetings,

Thank you for the report Derek.

Hope you had a good Christmas. Happy New Year to you, Sam and Ben.

Porthpean

2011-12-26T16:28:00.000Z

Report. Mark Whittaker

Porthpean 11am-12pm

Went down to Porthpean after seeing Rob Davey's report of possible "Pacific Diver" from Charlestown. Couldn't get parking at Charlestown due to boxing day swim .. MAD !! Diver definatly showing characteristics of Pacific diver although distant. 9 Black throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Med Gull and good numbers of Fulmar, Gannet & Shag. Also the Bittern was present at Par Beach Pool yesterday.

Hope everyone had a lovely Christmas .. sadly I didn't get Kelly Brook in my stocking !

Thank you for the report Mark.
Pity about Kelly.

Christmas Message

2011-12-24T21:06:00.001Z

St Austell Baywatch would like to wish all friends, contributors and followers of the Blog ...
A very Happy Christmas and a Mega New Year.
Thank you all for your support.

Lapwing and Golden Plovers

2011-12-24T21:02:00.000Z

Report. Richard Ford

I hope you are keeping well. After a busy summer neglecting the local
wildlife I finally managed to go out with the camera (for the first time in
over 6 months locally) and here's a small report for you:

Par beach pool: 1 Shelduck, 2 Tufteds, 1 Little Gull
Penpillick Hill: 600-800 Golden Plover, 70-80 Lapwings, 2 Raven

That's about it.

No doubt see you about soon,

Have a good one,

Thank you for the report Richard.
I hope to see you around in the New Year.
Merry Christmas to you and the family

Turnstones

2011-12-24T20:56:00.002Z

Report and photographs. Andy Cross

Took these photos on Tuesday afternoon of Turnstones out on the shoreline good job i had my wellies on Not a lot about at the moment and the weather is not very good Happy Christmas and a happy new year to you all.

Thank you for the report and photographs Andy. A Merry Christmas to you and the family.

Photographs. Nigel Climpson

2011-12-24T20:48:00.000Z

Black Redstarts

2011-12-24T18:12:00.001Z

Report and photographs. Nigel Climpson

A couple of images on Christmas Eve. How different from last year. The first is a Grey Heron striking a dramatic pose on Par Beach against the sun. And then around at Spit on the rock pile by the harbour wall there were three, possibly four (they move so fast) female Black Redstarts. Also present was a male Stonechat, a wren, and some Redwing.

You can follow my blog at http://parexcellent.blogspot.com.

Merry Christmas to you all

Thank you Nigel. A Happy Christmas to you and your family

Amended Post

2011-12-19T22:13:00.000Z

O dear. The gremlins have struck again.

The previous post was of course from Andrew Thomas (of Shrewbury) and not Andy Cross as stated.
I must apologise to both the Andy's and hope I have not caused any inconvenience.

The post has now been amended.

Gribben,Spit and Par

2011-12-18T22:46:00.001Z

Report and photographs. Andrew Thomas

Hi, it's Andy from Shrewsbury. Popped down to visit family in Tywardreath for a few days. Up early this morning to go to the Gribben. I think the birds were having a lie-in. Very little there. More luck at Spit and Par Pool - arrived just in time for the "Little Gull Show". Had a nice chat with some fellow bird watchers - I don't know if they are contributors to your site, but they were very pleasant.

5088 - male Stonechat, Spit.

5114 - female Stonechat, Spit.

5122 - Purple Sandpipers, Spit.

5141 / 5146 - Little Gull, Par Pool.

Thank you for the report and photographs Andy. I hope you had a nice break.

Quite probably you spoke to some Baywatch contributors as you state they are a friendly bunch.

Purple Sandpiper

2011-12-13T10:35:00.000Z

Report Mark Whittaker. (Yesterday)

3 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Great Northern Diver & 1 Black Guillemot heading west towards Carylon Bay from Spit Beach

Little Gull & Med Gull still present at Par Beach Pool

Thank you for the report Mark Good luck with the Television Appeal..

Bittern

2011-12-07T22:05:00.000Z

Report. Emma Watkins

Hello - Just to let you know the bittern was seen yesterday morning at the back of the pond by from the path which runs alongside the Imerys road. It was flying and landed fairly close to the path. So its still around!!

Thank you for the report Emma ...I am sure it will be of great interest to the Par regulars.

Danish Ringed Gull.

2011-12-06T22:11:00.001Z

Report. Derek Julian

A Black-headed Gull at Par Beach Pool on Saturday 3rd December with a white darvic ring with the legend VPP was ringed in Copenhagen as an adult female on Mar 26th 2008. This is the first time it has been recorded outside of Denmark.

Thank you for the information Derek. Another first for Par.

Oystercatchers.

2011-12-06T22:08:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andrew Carey

Still no sign of the bittern reported to Roger, guess it must've been just passing through. Very little of any note showing today, but the flock of oystercatchers in the attached picture provided a brief flash of excitement.

Thank you for the report Andrew.

Patch Report.

2011-12-05T21:58:00.000Z

Report. Mark Whittaker

Par Football Field - 42 Oystercatcher
St.Andrews Pool - 16 Teal & 2 Water Rail
Par Bay - 5 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Common Scoter & 1 Great Northern Diver
Par Beach Pool - 3 Tufted Duck (2f & 1m), 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Little Gull & Red Breasted Merganser on the river Imerys side .

Thank you Mark.

The previous post has a photograph of the Red-breasted Merganser.

Red-Breasted Merganser

2011-12-05T21:50:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andy Cross

Went back to get a better photo of the goosander and it was there again and realized it is a red breasted merganser what a stunning bird . Was a little to far away for a better shot.

Well done Andy.

Goosander.

2011-12-04T22:07:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andy Cross

Went to take a photo of a goosander on Par beach river but got spooked by a dog with no owner insight yet again so the photo is poor andy cross.

Thank you Andy.

Red Admirals

2011-12-04T21:57:00.001Z

Report, Roger Lane

Since the weather forecast suggests we may not get a lot of Dec. butterflies (if any), I will send in a report for Tues.2ndDec.2011. Initially, ambient temp. was c.9degsC, but there was 75% sunshine. Drew blanks at two coastal localities (strong N.wind), but slightly inland (Mt.Edgcombe Gdns) I was surprised to find a single Rd.Adm. nectaring on Mahonia. This encouraged me to drive on out to their over-wintering home, at Trenarren, inside the Baywatch area.

By then it was about 11degsC and 90% sunshine. In their (private) garden I was pleased to see one Rd.Adm. fly up from the dry gravel, it's flight disturbed at least 4 more from the leaves of holly bushes !

At least one pair commenced a full courtship flight in the sunlight (time c.1pm). A total of SIX Red Admirals for 2nd Dec.2011 !

Thank you Roger. Butterflies must be few and far between this time of year.

Black-tailed Godwit

2011-12-04T21:55:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Nigel Climpson.

Lots of water at Par Beach Pool this afternon, even the causeway was underwater. No sign of any Bitterns but this Black-tailed Godwit was eminently photographable on the near edge of the pool.

Thank you Nigel.

Bittern

2011-12-03T12:12:00.000Z

Report. Roger Lane

IT WASN'T ME ! And I don't know if it's widely known, but a little bird (whom I met in ASDA today, 2nd Dec.2011) told me that he saw the Bittern at Par Pool earlier. Someone quite familiar with last year's bird, I don't doubt his observations (standing and in flight) for a moment. Guess it'll be there for the winter now ! (A non-computer user presumably, he said "to tell Andy" !

Thank you Roger. Photographs will soon be on the way I reckon.

Yellow Legged Gull

2011-11-30T20:16:00.000Z

Report. Phil Barlow

Sorry this report is a day late( computer prob). 1st winter yellow legged gull in with herring gulls yesterday about half ten. Possibly same gull seen a few weeks ago?

Thank you for the report Phil.

Has anyone taken a photograph of it?

G.C Grebes

2011-11-25T22:54:00.000Z

Report 25th November. Roger Lane.

Visited Par briefly this afternoon. Not a lot about, except Andy! In additions the few birds seen were 1 x Dabchick (poss.2); 1 x Shelduck (regular); 1 x Med.Gull (still with darkish,'summer' head plumage) and 1 x Little Gull, (caught up with at last, albeit distant, thanks to Andy's camera lens) ! Also one or two waders flying around the Pool thought to be Snipe, or somesuch.

We were also told of up to 7 x G.C.Grebes out in the Bay. Good to know they're back.

Thank you for the report Roger. Nice to see you are back mobile again.

Ringed Gull

2011-11-25T22:49:00.000Z

Report and photograph .Mark Whittaker

There is metal ringed Black Headed Gull at Par atm and I finally got some shots of the metal ring but sadly not enough for a complete positive location of ringing. But it has been proven to have been rung in Belgium. I'll try and get some other shots if I can (and anyone else is welcome to have a go). as would be good to find out where in the region it was rung.

Thanks for the report and photograph Mark.

Ringed Gull Again.

2011-11-24T22:09:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andy Cross

Went down to Par beach this afternoon not a great lot around met andrew carey had a chat then i went to St Andrews pond where i had lunch then looking at the gulls i noticed a ringed black headed gull i took several photos this being the best showing the rings i have passed on the information but if anybody has any information please pass it on .

Thank you for the report Andy. The ringed Gull (2V27) has been on and off PBP since the early days of November when if memory serves me correctly it was first seen by Derek Julian.

Photographs from the Valley.

2011-11-24T12:03:00.001Z

I decided it was time to have another look for the Manoa Valley Dippers now the summer bank growth has now all but gone. It did take a while before I located one but I could not get close enough for a decent photograph. A short while later I saw two fishing in the river but yet again the photograph was just a record shot.
Very little else was seen....A trio of Mallards, a pair of Grey Wagtails and a Red Admiral butterfly.

Rat

2011-11-23T19:00:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Nigel Climpson

Love them or hate them rats are part of nature and young rats can be very engaging. This youngster was part of a family browsing on the edge pf St. Andrews Road Pool, Par. King Rat, who was immense, kept very much in the background but the little ones were very approachable.

I do not think many people love 'em Nigel. There is quite a colony of them at St Andrews.

Nice photograph.

Trio of Gulls

2011-11-22T20:25:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andrew Carey

I was at Par Beach Pool with Mark at lunchtime today, (Tuesday) and both little gulls and a single med gull were present, and at times, quite confiding. Mark reports that there were two female eiders out in the bay.

I've attached a labelled composite pic of the little, black headed and med gulls which you might like to post in case anybody is not sure of their identifications

Great to see them all presented like that Andrew.....well done.

Stonechat and Dunnock

2011-11-18T19:22:00.000Z

My two from yesterday. Stonechat and Dunnock

Brent Goose

2011-11-17T22:40:00.001Z

Report and photograph 16th November 2011. Andrew Carey

I've attached a picture of a Brent Goose that was to be found on the bank of Par Beach Pool yesterday lunchtime, just before the heavens opened and sent me scurrying for shelter at home.

Sorry about the mix up Andrew.

Crane.

2011-11-17T20:41:00.003Z

Report. Ann Graham

I'm sure I saw a crane this afternoon at about 4.30 flying over
the mount towards the docks. It was already quite distant but it was
flying with outstretched neck and legs and its wings looked huge. Hope
somebody else sees it to comfirm.

Thank you for the report Ann.

Can anyone confirm Ann's sighting?

Two Little Gulls

2011-11-17T16:23:00.001Z

Report and photograph. Nigel Climpson

Seeing double. Two Little gulls at Par Beach pool first thing this morning.

Thank you for the report and photograph Nigel.

I visited the Pool myself at 1030 hrs . Sadly just in front of the far reed beds was a dead Swan.

When I returned from checking out the shoreline it had been removed.

The tide was in and I did not see any waders....just Stonechats on top of the bushes with a Dunnock or two.

Little Gull

2011-11-15T20:36:00.000Z

Report and photograph. 15th November 2011. Mark Whittaker

Visited St.Austell Sewage Works and Par Beach pool today and had the following :

Sewage Works : 10+ Long Tailed Tit, 30+ Meadow Pipit, 40+ Pied Wagtail and 8 Goldcrest

Par Beach Pool : Teal (2 Female), 1 Male Pochard (Andy may have some better pictures as mine were rubbish), 1 Female Gadwall, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Shelduck,6 Greylag Geese, 8 x Snipe and Adult Little Gull. Starling roost was superb again tonight. If you've not already, get yourself down there and see them.

Thank you Mark....that completes the set.

Med and Common Gull.

2011-11-14T22:58:00.000Z

Report and photographs. Mark Whittaker

6 Greylag Geese, 1 Kingfisher on the Island, 1 partially leucistic Jackdaw, Med Gull and Common Gull. No sign of the Little or Yellow Legged Gull

Thank you for the report and photographs Mark. Pity John's Gull was not about.

Odd Looking Gull.

2011-11-13T17:02:00.000Z

Report. John Rance.

Had a quick scan of the pool this morning-no sign of the Little Gull- but came across a very odd looking Lesser-black backed ‘type’ gull. It appeared on the pool for a quick wash and a preen before heading towards the beach, so this is really an appeal for a photo if anyone with a decent camera comes across it!

A brief description:

Lesser black-backed-like at first glance, but;

- the yellow legs and bill were a sort of deep golden yellow not the quite bright yellow of our average LBB- although bear in mind the bright sunshine may have been a factor.

- the mantle is the ‘wrong’ shade of grey-paler and more of a mid/slaty grey than our ‘usual’ LBB’s- although again the bright sunshine may have influenced this. The nearest thing I can compare it to is a ‘Common Gull shade of grey’.

- a heavily and distinctly streaked head.

Structurally quite large, bulkier in appearance, with broader wings than the average LBB’s which are normally quite slim and pointed. In flight, prominent broad white trailing edges to the wings.

I’m pretty sure it’s one of the Lesser black-backed races but I’d dearly love a good photo to try and decide which-so over to the photographers!

Anyone out there who can help John on this one

Brent Goose

2011-11-12T22:32:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Nigel Climpson

A Brent Goose was on Par Beach Pool at 08:30 this morning but flew out to sea shortly after, Also the Little Gull was present

Thank you for the report and photograph Nigel. Things are starting to hot up again.

Around the Bay

2011-11-12T22:28:00.000Z

Report. Olly Mears

Friday 11th Nov, afternoon

Porthpean, relatively quiet. Large flock of B-H Gulls. 1 Buzzard, 1 Peregrine over.

Charlestown. 2 Ravens, one being repeatedly attacked/stooped on by Peregrine. Raven appeared somewhat annoyed! 1 Rock Pipit, 1 male Stonechat.

Charlestown to Carlyon Bay. 1 GN Diver, summer plumage, visible from Coastwatch point. 1 Buzzard.

Carlyon Bay. 1 Kestrel hunting on golf course, multiple Rock Pipits.

Spit Point. Large flock of roosting Oystercatchers and Curlew. Also 14 Turnstone and 12 Ringed Plover.

Thank you for the report Olly.

Black-Headed Gull

2011-11-11T23:33:00.000Z

Report. Nigel Climpson

Is this the same black headed gull reported on by Derek Julian?

There were about 5000+ starlings at Par Beach Pool this evening. A jolly good display. Also the Little Gull was present for a short while. 6 Greylags on the Pool and 5 Brent Geese on the sea.

Nigel also sent in a photograph of the ringed Black-headed Gull (2V27)

Ringed Gull

2011-11-11T23:21:00.000Z

Report and photograph. Andrew Carey

Fuirther to Nigel's report, I spent an hour at Par Beach Pool this afternoon, and watched 6 greylag geese fly off, and around the area, a sparrowhawk fly across the lake towards the island, a buzzard soar over head, two little egrets and considerable numbers of the usual suspects.

I've attached a pic of what I take to be Derek's black headed gull, with the ring clearly readable.

Thank you for the report and photograph Andy.

Little Gull

2011-11-10T17:34:00.001Z

Report and photographs Nigel Climpson.

A Little Gull was reported at Par Beach Pool yesterday afternoon. It was still there this morning and I have attached a couple of pictures. Also 5 Brent Geese among the tide pools on the beach. Two Eider seen off Spit Beach

Nice one Nigel.

Common Sandpiper at Par

2011-11-08T20:39:00.000Z

Report. Phil Barlow..8th November 2011

Another quick scan at 4pm showed a little grebe , two common sandpiper and a 1st winter med at the beach pool and still 2 brent geese at factory end feeding in the weed.

Thank you for the report Phil.

Baywatch Sites

2011-11-08T09:12:00.000Z

Report. M. Whittaker. 7th November 2011

St.Austell Sewage Works - 2 Goldcrest, Mixed flock of Redwing + Fieldfare over (40ish) and a Marsh Tit

Porthpean - 12ish Gannet fishing at distance and 1 Juvenile fishing close in, Great Northern Diver (4) all in near summage plummage & Black throated Diver (2)

Charlestown - Black Throated Diver (5) 2 in near summer plummage & 2 Great Crested Grebe

St.Andrews Pool - 2 Teal (Male)

Par Bay - Female Goosander (2), Pale Bellied Brent Geese (2), Great crested Grebe (2), Common Scoter (5) at distance, Teal (8), Male Wigeon (1), Shelduck (1),

Par Beach Pool - Little Grebe (1), Med Gull (1), Shelduck (1), Dunlin (2) and Starling roost easily up to 3000 birds. Flock attacked several times by a female Sparrowhawk. Eventually choosing to roost in the hedges behind the car park which was quite a sight to see.

Thank you for the report Mark. Glad to see the Divers back in the Bay.

2011-11-05T19:30:00.003Z

Report. Mark Whittaker. 5th November 2011

Black Headed Gull with metal ring, 1 Male Shoveler, 2 "White" Wagtails and Starling roost up to about 2000 birds. Starling show kicks off about 4pm.

Yesterday
A Hawfinch was present near the hard rock cafe at St.Andrews Pool early this morning but very mobile

Thank you for the report and photograph Mark.

Black-headed Gull

2011-11-01T22:47:00.000Z

Report. Derek Julian.

The ringed Black-headed Gull noted at Par Beach Pool on Oct 23rd was ringed at Cleveland Farm, Wiltshire on Jun 9th 2009 and has been seen once before at Par Beach Pool on Dec 12th 2009.

This according to the ringer is fairly typical behaviour with birds moving south and west from their ringing grounds.

Thank you for the update Derek.

Baywatch Sites.

2011-10-27T21:33:00.000+01:00

Baywatch sites at 1130hrs this morning,

No sign of the Great Egret at Par, St Andrews Pool or Snowlands.

Muscovey Duck still at St Andrews.

Par and St Andrews Pool

2011-10-27T10:36:00.000+01:00

Report. Derek Julian . 26th October 2011

Yesterday, visited the following sites;

Par Beach Pool

• Mute Swan – 10
• Cormorant – 1
• Coot – 22
• Moorhen – 22
• Canada Goose – 115
• Heron – 2
• Mallard – 22
• Mallard hybrid – 32
• Little Grebe – 1
• Great Black-backed Gull – 3
• Lesser Black-backed Gull – 1
• Jackdaw – 6
• Black-headed Gull – 87, (one with a metal ring, unable to read)
• Herring Gull – 86, (one with a metal ring, only partially read poss. GR027027?)
• Pied Wagtail – 8
• Reed Bunting – 1
• House Sparrow – 12
• Dunnock – 1
• Robin – 1
• Wood Pigeon – 2
• Goldcrest – 1
• Magpie – 2
• Raven – 2

St Andrews Pool

• Pike – 1 caught by fisherman
• Brown Rat – 3
• Robin – 4
• Chaffinch – 1
• Muscovy Duck – 1
• Mute Swan – 3
• Canada Goose – 7
• Shelduck – 1
• Black-headed Gull – 20
• Mallard – 20
• Mallard hybrid – 35
• Moorhen – 11
• Blue Tit – 2
• Goldcrest – 2
• Blackbird – 1
• Coal Tit – 1

Hope all is well,

Thank you for the report Derek.

I see the Great Egret was missing from the list yesterday.

Great White Egret

2011-10-26T21:49:00.001+01:00

Report Chris Holyoak. Monday 24th October 2011

Although it is not a brilliant photo I believe this shows a great white egret at the far side of the pond this afternoon.

Firstly...sorry it is up a day late.

Wonderful capture Chris if it is confirmed as a a Great Egret.

Manoa Valley

2011-10-24T11:24:00.000+01:00

Report Olly Mears 23rd October 2011

Manoa Valley this afternoon, 2+ Dippers.

I am glad the Dippers have become visible again. A camera trip beckons.

Thank you for the report Olly.

Baywatch Sites

2011-10-23T20:17:00.001+01:00

Report. Derek Julian. 23rd October 2011

The following were noted around your area today.

St Austell

· Buzzard – 1 over

· Herring Gull – 35

· Lesser Black-backed Gull – 1

· Feral Pigeon – 1 sitting on a nest

Porthpean

· Merlin – 1 male in off sea, then flew east

· Gannet – 10

· Shag – 3

· Great Black-backed Gull – 6

· Black-headed Gull – 24

· Cormorant – 3

· Carrion Crow – 2

· Herring Gull – 6

· Robin – 2

· Meadow Pipit – 2 over

· Raven – 1

Par

· Jackdaw – 65

Par Beach Pool

· Black-headed Gull – 159, 1 with white darvic. Probably from Cotswold Water Parks.

· Jackdaw – 85

· Herring Gull – 72

· Common Gull – 1

· Canada Goose – 111

· Shelduck – 1

· Lesser Black-backed Gull – 1

· Greenfinch – 8

· Pied Wagtail – 6

· Moorhen – 29

· House Sparrow – 16

· Coot – 25

· Mute Swan – 5

· Teal – 3

· Mallard – 21

· Mallard hybrid – 12

· Heron – 1

· Chaffinch – 1

· Small Tortoiseshell - 1

St Andrew’s Pool

· Blue Tit – 1

· Wood Pigeon – 1

· Brown rat – 2

· Muscovy Duck – 1

· Canada Goose – 9

· Mute Swan – 3

· Shoveler – 1 male

· Black-headed Gull – 8

· Moorhen – 14

· Herring Gull – 1

· Robin – 1

· Teal – 1 male

· Mallard – 26

· Mallard hybrid – 28

· Speckled Wood – 1

· Chaffinch – 1

Coal Tit – 1

Thank you for the detailed report Derek.

Menabilly and Gribben Head

2011-10-17T21:36:00.000+01:00

Report .Mark Whittaker

1 "Ringtail" Hen Harrier
4 Peregrine
1 Merlin
2 Buzzard
10+ Siskin
1 Firecrest
1 Brambling
2 Stonechat
8 Redwing
2 Fieldfare
1 Swallow
1 Great Spotted Woodpecker
2 Jay
1 Raven
4 "Melanistic" Pheasant

Loads of other common bits and bobs like Skylark, Linnet, Goldfinch and various tit species

A very similar report to John's. Does seem a lot of activity around Menabilly at the moment.

Thank you for the report Mark.

Menabilly Barton

2011-10-17T11:02:00.001+01:00

Report. John Rance. Sunday 16th October

A few highlights from around Menabilly Barton early this morning:

1 ‘ringtail’ Hen Harrier ( overhead, being mobbed by 3 Carrion Crows)

2 Brambling

25+ Redwing

3 Fieldfare

10+ Siskin

1 Wheatear

Tens of Skylarks, Meadow Pipits and Pied Wagtails

Also Linnet , Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Blackbird, Robin, Kestrel, Blue, Coal and Great Tits, Woodpigeon, Herring Gulls and a single Swallow.

A nice collection from Menabilly Barton. The Redwing, Fieldfare and Brambling are the first reported to the Blog this Autumn.

Thank you for the report...a good day by all accounts.

Herons

2011-09-28T20:33:00.001+01:00

Photograph and report. A. Carey. Tuesday 27th September 2011

Good to see you out and about today, despite the lack of birds.

I saw 5 speckled wood and 1 red admiral butterfly, Roger's Shelduck was still on the pool, and two of the four herons that flew in had a right go at each other!!

Nice capture that Andy.

Just for the record ...The Pool and shoreline were dismal to say the least with nothing worth recording. I did manage to see a Kingfisher 3 times as it moved around way out of camera range upstream by the bridge close to Imerys private road.

G.S. Woodpecker

2011-09-25T23:16:00.000+01:00

Report .R.Lane Sunday 25th September 2011.

A brief visit to Par about 4pm today gave the following results:

Par Pool is still being filled with equinox tides which will go on for several more days. The only bird addition was 1 x Shelduck.

Moving on to the 'Wilderness' I heard, and briefly saw, a G.S.Woodpecker, possibly an immature, in the Pine trees.

The Bay was noisy with Sandwich Terns, a youngster calling and being fed on the strand-line, though I could see only up to six adults. Amongst many feeding B.H.Gulls was at least 1 x adult MED.GULL

Nice one in the Wilderness Roger.

Tree Pipit at St Blazey

2011-09-23T11:43:00.000+01:00

Report. Danny the Pirate.

Yes the first of Andy's photos is of a juvenile Knot with the pale fringes to the feathers on the back. The second photo is of a Juvenile Dunlin with a few grey winter feathers appearing on the back. I've had a few Yellow Wagtails and a Tree Pipit over St Blazey in the last Week.
Cheers

Thank you for the confirmation Danny. I am still waiting to see a Tree Pipit.

Brent Geese

2011-09-20T12:52:00.000+01:00

Report. R. Lane . Sunday 18th September.

A brief visit to Par late this afternoon (5pm) showed a hybrid Goose on Par Pool. Superficially like a Canada Goose from the rear to the neck, but neck and head distinct. Wider neck than Canada and colour light grey-brown. No white chin patch, distinct white eye-ring and a PINK bill. Neck showed 'scruffy' molting feathers. Probably only last year's Greylag/Canada hybrid, molting from summer to winter plumage.

More success on Par Bay where there were 8 x BRENT GEESE (far out on the waves of mid-tide). Only seen at a considerable distance, they were though to be of the White-fronted variety, an early date. But please check someone, suggest at high tide, at western end of beach.

Can anyone confirm Roger's sightings?

Waders at Par

2011-09-18T12:57:00.000+01:00

Report and Photograph Andy Cross

Please could identify these two waders both were on Par beach pond but not at the same time nice to be able to get close to take some nice photos i am never sure on the species of several birds but learning all the time andy cross

2011-09-18T12:53:00.002+01:00

A pair of nice photographs Andy.
We are going for Knot and Dunlin but like you we are no experts.
Over to the men in the know to identify Andy's sightings.

Oystercatchers.

2011-09-12T19:08:00.000+01:00

I've just noticed a slight error in the last report I mailed in.
The Oyster catcher numbers should read 40+ (not 4+).

Thursday 8th was a good day for Gannets. I walked out to the end of the Gribben in the afternoon and noticed a steady stream of them passing. At one point there were over 120 visible.

Cheers, Phil Ouless.

Thanks for the report Phil.

Ringed B.H Gull

2011-09-12T19:04:00.001+01:00

Report. R. Lane

A brief visit to Par Pool (8thSep.2011) showed the two gulls of 4thSep (Med.Gull & Darvic ringed B.H.Gull) to be present still. At least there was an imm.Med Gull still, although it did look smarter than on 4thSep.! It's typical 'bully-boy' behaviour brought it to my notice today, 'seeing-off any B.H.Gull within reach !

Got a bit closer to the white darvic ringed B.H.Gull, which incidentally is an adult and ringed on the right leg as suspected. The number appears to be: Z V 2 7 (not 5 digit as thought), and has NOT been reported yet (by me), if anyone cares to, please do so. (Recorder: R.LANE).

Sorry it was up late.
When can we expect the first Divers Roger?

Spit Beach

2011-09-07T22:00:00.000+01:00

Report. Phil Ouless 6th September 2011

I was at Spit Beach at about 4 o`clock this afternoon, about 3 hours after high water. There were 4+ Oystercatchers present, 3 Little Egrets & a Curlew near the harbour. On rocks just west of the beach were 8 Turnstones, 6 Ringed Plovers, 3 Dunlins, 2 Knot & 1 Bar Tailed Godwit. Once the dog walkers had vacated the beach, the waders came down to feed & I got some entertaining views of the Turnstones rummaging through the seaweed along the strand line. The Godwit fed slightly higher up the beach. Several Gannets were also visible out in the bay.

A nice collection of waders Phil. Thank you for the report.

Med Gull

2011-09-05T20:38:00.003+01:00

Report. 4th September 2011. R. Lane

Since the Par chuffer train broke down, at Yeovil(?), I continued on for a quick look at Par Pond (later than normal). There were three items of some interest, briefly, until evening holiday-makers came to feed/chase the gulls.

Firstly there was a juv. Herr.Gull with a fractured/injured leg, which could fly but not walk, landing mostly on the water. Secondl was a 'new' B.H.Gull sporting a white Darvic ring (I think on it's right leg) with a large 5(?) digit number, which I only saw at a distance without 'bins. Thirdly, there was an juv/imm MED GULL just molting out of juv. plumage into 1st-winter.

All three birds were on the grass bank by the road, but were being harassed by holidaymakers. The darvic ring number would be quite readable with 'bins. The Med.Gull in molt is a rather scruffy individual !

Thank you for the report Roger.

It was a bit of a let down the train arriving after dark. Still..I managed to photograph it this afternoon at the temporary shed.

Well done with the Gulls.

Knot at Par

2011-09-05T20:32:00.000+01:00

Report and photographs. Nigel Climpson 4th September 2011

7pm this evening in Par Harbour. This juvenile Knot landed just in front of me. A quick Indian crawl gave satisfactory return for being covered in wet sand.

Nice photographs Nigel.

Par.

2011-08-31T22:27:00.001+01:00

Report Phil Barlow

Just been around par beach and surrounding area. Down the river were 2 little egret and common sandpiper. From the beach were oystercatcher and usual mix of gulls. The scrub area had linnet, a juvenile stonechat and pied/white wagtail. LBB gull on the pond and a grey wagtail near the car park. Most interesting for me today, in the scrub at dock end of beach, was a weasel attacking a rabbit!!!

cheers

An interesting day Phil. The Weasel would have made a nice photograph.

Spit Beach

2011-08-30T21:18:00.000+01:00

Report. Phil Barlow

Have just started to bird the area and found your site. Visited Spit this evening at high tide. There was a nice mix of waders with up to 20 ringed plover, a single knot, 8 turnstone and 9 dunlin. Out to sea were bh gulls, herring gulls cormorant and a solitary shag. A rock pippit flitted about. Hope this is of interest.

Thank you for the report Phil and welcome to the Blog.

Reports from Spit are always of special interest to us as are the other sites covered by the Blog.

Spit Waders.

2011-08-27T22:33:00.000+01:00

Report. Phil Ouless

I wandered down to Spit Beach at about high water this afternoon. On and around the harbour wall were 32 Oystercatchers, 3 Grey Herons, 3 Little Egrets, 2 Curlews, 2 Common Sandpipers & 2 Wheatears. The rocks just west of the beach held 15 Turnstones & 8 Ringed Plovers.

Thank you for the report Phil. Spit definitely had the luck of the draw today.

Dunlin

2011-08-27T22:29:00.000+01:00

Report. R. Lane Hardly worth bothering (you). Short visit to Par Bay today, at high tide , revealed only:

5x Turnstones & 1x Dunlin.

A little quiet today Roger.

Turnstones.

2011-08-26T20:54:00.001+01:00

Report. R. Lane. 26th August 2011
A brief visit to Par today showed little of interest on the Pool, except 1 x Little Egret and 2 x Sand Martins overhead.

The Bay was not much better, the tide was in and there were 7 x Turnstones working the tide-line and very tame (migrants?), allowing approach within 10ft (unusual)

'Best of the Bunch' was a lone, adult winter MED GULL amongst the BHGulls at the water's edge (probably the same recent wintering? individual?). No juvs seen this year, disappointing.

Thank you for the report Roger. The waders are starting to come back. Should be getting busy real soon.

Kingfisher (photograph)

2011-08-25T21:01:00.000+01:00

Report and photograph. Mark Whittaker.

Visited Par Beach Pool and the surrounding area at low tide this morning and saw two Kingfishers either end of the site using both the river and stream to fish. The attached picture of the male Kingfisher was taken near the Imerys works at the far end of the beach.

Great shot Mark. It did not take long to confirm and photograph Roger's sighting.

Kingfisher.

2011-08-23T20:18:00.000+01:00

Report. R. Lane. 23rd August 2011

A short visit to Par today. Seemingly not much on the Pond, except a drop more water ! At the 'West-End' walking over to the West Par river from the car-park, I heard and saw a Common Sandpiper fly up stream (low tide). Although I could not relocate the Sandpiper, a Kingfisher was fishing from the sawn off tree branches, at 45degs to the horizontal, as a perch, until it saw me and flew upstream out of sight !

Well done Roger. I am glad the Kingfisher is back. As the crowds thin out it probably will be seen a lot more. I am hoping to photograph them this Autumn once a feeding pattern has been established.

Wheatear

2011-08-18T19:33:00.001+01:00

Report and Photograph. Nigel Climpson

On Spit Beach this afternoon two Wheatear and four Sandwich Terns.

Nice one Nigel.

Scaup?

2011-08-17T22:02:00.002+01:00

Report and Photograph. A.Carey 17th August 2011

Popped down to Par Beach Pool when the sun came out and grabbed a couple of pics of Roger's indeterminate duck! For what it's worth I'd say it's an immature female Scaup, from the markings, which extend under the chin, unlike the female tuftie, which in my experience tends to stop at the bill. Whilst Roger and I were watching this bird from the car park, a kingfisher flew over the bushes behind us, and at speed across the lake, and over the island.

Attached a piccy of the duck, let me know what you think.

Thank you for photograph and report Andrew.

Photograph. A. Carey

2011-08-17T21:04:00.002+01:00

Scaup-Faced Tufted Duck?

2011-08-16T20:48:00.000+01:00

Report. R.Lane. 16th August 2011

Another short visit to Par this afternoon showed that the 'Tufted Duck' (of 15th) was still present. But the female bird may be a Scaup ! At this early season it is more likely to be a 'scaup-faced' Tufted Duck. I should be glad if someone else with better optics should take a look at the facial pattern. Something about the rapidity of diving (scaup-like?) suggests scaup too, yet the apparently pointed head again suggests 'scaup-faced' Tufted Duck! Should have gone to Spec-Savers I guess !

Meanwhile on the pond the Moorhen is down to 1 chick now. Despite 40+, BHGulls there was NO med.gull today(4pm). The Bay was empty apart from c.30 large gulls, and just 6 x 'B.H.Gulls', except that 1 of the 6, was an ad. MED.GULL, probably the one seen on 14thAug.. It was mid-tide and any sand.terns would probably have come in later with the tide.

I hope someone can supply you with the information Roger.

Tufted Duck

2011-08-16T09:58:00.000+01:00

Report. R. Lane

A quick trip to Par in this afternoon's rain showed the Moorhen still feeding the 2 v.young chicks and also my first autumn return Tufted Duck (a scruffy imm/fem), following Mallards since there were no other Tufted !

Over the Bay were 2 x Gannets and 4 x Sand.Terns, but no waders seen due to walkers.

The Tufted Duck heralds the return of the natives. A new season is in the air..

Dipper

2011-08-15T20:36:00.000+01:00

2011-08-15T20:00:00.000+01:00

Inspired by my recent visits to :- Visions of Nature. An Exhibition of Wildlife Art.

MED GULL

2011-08-14T21:02:00.000+01:00

Called in at Par Pond briefly today looking for a Med.Gull! Amongst c.50 BHGulls, there was a fine adult (wint.plumage) MED GULL (until holidaymakers drove it off !).

The only other item of some interest was a female Moorhen, feeding 2 very small chicks (latish). Also a Gannet and 2+, Sand.Terns in the Bay. (Too late for waders, tide was right in.)

Report. Roger Lane. (Yesterday)

Thank you for the report Roger

Hopefully the Blog will return to normal now after its summer break.
I would be interested to hear of any Kingfisher sightings along the eastern river, especially where they perch.

Record Numbers

2011-08-13T20:01:00.000+01:00

The new look feeder station has certainly been a hit with our garden birds.
A staggering 22 Blue Tits and 13 Long-tailed Tits descended upon the station this afternoon at the same time. If you imagine a few Chaffinch, Coal Tits, Great Tits, Robin, Blackbirds Sparrows, Starlings , Dunnock, Goldfinches and Collared Dove also around you would have to agree it was a rare sight indeed. This time last year we were lucky to have 3 Blue Tits and the odd L.T.T.
Times have certainly changed.
The breeding season has been a huge success with families of Bullfinches , Wrens, Magpies, Jays and off course the roof top Swifts.also chipping in to keep the numbers up.

Spit Beach (Friday)

2011-08-06T21:47:00.000+01:00

I was back again at Spit Beach at noon today. Oystercatcher numbers were 72 and they were joined on the harbour wall by 3 Little Egrets, 4 Sandwich Terns and 2 Whimbrel. 50+ Starlings were foraging in the seaweed along the high water line nearby.

Report Phil Ouless.

Thanks again for the report Phil.
The number of Oystercatchers has dropped a little but still impressive figures.

A Trip down the Valley.

2011-08-05T20:58:00.002+01:00

Birds were in short supply but the Butterflies and Insects made up for it.
The wild flowers alongside the riverbanks have grown to such a height it was difficult to see the river in places let alone a Dipper or Grey Wagtail. So the Dipper project has been temporary suspended till Autumn at least.
Back at the Sewer Works I found a nice spot (near Chiffchaff Corner) where I observed Chiffchaff and Long-tailed Tits frolicking in a dead looking tree.
Most of the days photographs were more record than publish but the information collected will probably save me many wasted hours this summertime.

2011-08-05T20:45:00.000+01:00