Dipper

First up this morning was Watergate where Willow Warbler were everywhere. Nothing new on the lake, but a newly fledged Dipper was at the top of the waterfall.

Dipper

 

Another dump of Wheatear at Burdon Moor with at least 15 in the lower fields. These had moved on by early afternoon.

 

Wheatear

No new warblers were singing at Birtley reed beds on a cold morning, but a House Martin was feeding over the water treatment works.

 

A Little Owl was at it's usual spot by Pennyfine Road and another returning to an abandoned site means there are at least 4 pairs around Ravensworth Fell.

 

The Grasshopper warbler was singing strongly and showed briefly, but not well enough for photos. A Whitethroat gave a short burst of song and a Red Kite drifted over.

 

News of a singing Redstart meant a mini twitch to Bradley Fell. Although no longer singing the bird eventually showed well at a distance at the edge of a shelter belt. Also here were several Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff.

 

Redstart

 

Shibdon was disappointing, but a Speckled Wood there was my first of the year.

 

Speckled Wood

 

At Lamesley Yellow and White Wagtail, plus a Wigeon were near the gate. Several Tree Sparrow were calling from the hedge here.

 

Yellow Wagtail

 

Wigeon