Dearne Valley 6th April
Sixteen of us enjoyed wall to wall sunshine on an excellent trip to the Dearne Valley yesterday (Sunday 6th April). We had a very good total of 78 species. Our route was Wombwell Ings, Old Moor RSPB, Adwick Washlands RSPB and some brief highlights are below.
Wombwell Ings
We had barely reached the Ings when five Whooper Swans appeared, circled the area and then carried on (photo attached). Avocets were obvious, but we are also able to get some good comparisons of Ringed and Little Ringed Plovers. The two Water Pipits showed themselves, one of them even landing quite close.
Old Moor
Up to four Marsh Harriers were seen and we were lucky enough to get flight views of a Bittern. Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff and Blackcap were singing and four Sand Martins were overhead. A Common Sandpiper was the first of the year for most of us.
Adwick Washlands
The walk down to the washlands produced two Swallows which were another first for the year. At the other end of the scale, a solitary Pink-footed Goose was lurking amongst the other geese. As at the other sites there was a good variety of ducks, plus Avocets and Redshanks.
My thanks to everyone for their company and for adding to the sightings which made for an excellent day’s early spring birdwatching.
Paul Doherty