31st December 2002

Slavonian Grebe; A report of one present on Grimsargh Reservoirs, grid ref; SD590346 (Dennis Lambert per Len Knowles). View from the public footpath at SD592346.

Edge End Clough, Brierfield: 3 Hawfinches showing at 09.30hrs at least (P. Grice). Grid Ref: SD855368; in the area of the stone Bungalow called 'The Beeches'. Follow the public footpath along the South side of the school until you come to the end of the fenced school playing field and the field below is open; there is a 5-barred gate on your left. Look over the gate at the trees just over the wall on the right. Also, several Brambling in the area.

Twiston Moor (SD432/SD816): Up to 6 Short-eared Owl and a Raven seen this afternoon. Also, the sub-ad male Hen Harrier still in the area - this Harrier is wing-tagged, but as yet only the green tag on the left wing has been accurately noted. This is not a Bowland bird (1998-2000). The bird may perhaps be of Scottish or even continental origin (P. Grice, B. James).

Common Crossbill - c.20 at Longridge Fell, in Spruces "up the track from the car park" between 13.00-14.00hrs (Peter Monaghan).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 11 Tufted Duck, 2 Pochard and 8 Goldeneye (MB).

Great-Grey Shrike; Seen in roadside bushes along Catlow Road (Slaidburn-Bentham) at 14.30hrs, grid ref: SD709554 (Pete Marsh).

Twiston Moor (SD432/SD816): 4 Short-eared Owl and sub-ad male Hen Harrier seen this afternoon (P. Grice).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 12:45-14:40hrs; 32 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Shelduck, c35 Wigeon, 226 Mallard, 11 Goldeneye, 2 Great Black-backed Gull. No sign of yesterday's Ruddy Duck or Pintail, nor of any Pochard or Tufted Duck (AAC).

Champion Moor (SD750530), Ling Hill Farm: 14:50-15:00hrs; 9 Goldfinch perching on overhead cables and dropping to feed (on Juncus seeds?) (AAC).

Late news for 10th December: "I was leaving the M65 to go over to Winfields. There was a Barn Owl hunting at the side of the road" (Kevin Singleton).

Edge End Clough, Brierfield: 2 Hawfinches showing late-morning at least (B. James). Grid Ref: SD855368; in the area of the stone Bungalow called 'The Beeches'. Follow the public footpath along the South side of the school until you come to the end of the fenced school playing field and the field below is open; there is a 5-barred gate on your left. Look over the gate at the trees just over the wall on the right.

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): *IMPORTANT* - Site access details supplied by Hanson Aggregates: No access by birders either by vehicle or on foot along the quarry access road during the following times:
Mon - Fri; 0730-1800hrs, Sat; 0800-1200hrs. Vehicular/pedestrian access along the quarry access road is granted all day SUNDAY only.
When visiting during the working hours stated above, please park v. carefully off-road outside the main gate and under no circumstances walk/stand along the access road and avoid all aspects of the working quarry. There are viewpoints which can be accessed from the public footpaths running through/around the site. Future site access and future broadcasting of birdnews from the site depends on birders strictly adhering to the above.

41 Goldeneye, 13 Goosander, 13 Gadwall, 4 Teal, 35+ Pochard, 25+ Tufted Duck, 1 Little Grebe, 8 Grey Heron, 1 Fieldfare, 15+ Siskin and 15+ Goldfinch (ASD).

Pink-footed Goose; c.150 flew west at 13.40hrs, over observers house at Sunny Bower, Blackburn (ASD).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 6 Pintail, 1 Goosander + Pochard and Tufted Duck. Also, 2 Common Crossbill at the northern end of the reservoir, in the Larch belt along the red trail (TD, MB).

Champion Moor (SD750530): At least 2 Short-eared Owl seen this afternoon (T+JD, MB). Click here to view photo article on the SE Owls.

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): No sign of the Greater Scaup today. An impressive total of 45 Goosander roosted this evening. Recent evening counts of this species at the site include; 33 on 17/12, 23 on 26/12 and 30 on 27/12. The Goosanders fly-in anytime between 15.30hrs-dusk, and are thought to involve birds from the Ribble (Tim+ Janet Davie).

SD776466: Single Barnacle Goose feeding on the far bank of the Ribble, opp. Spread Eagle, Sawley (Kieran Desoer).

SD753444: A small number of Brambling amongst a Chaffinch flock (KD).

Edge End Clough, Brierfield: 2 Hawfinches showing mid-morning at least (Tim Davie). Also, Brambling in the area.

Twiston Moor: 3 Short-eared Owl and a male Hen Harrier seen between 14.00-15.30hrs (Barry James).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): A female Greater Scaup, 9 Pochard, 3 Tufted Duck and 2 Cormorant (TD).

Edge End Clough, Brierfield: 3 Hawfinches showing mid-morning at least (JM), Also, Brambling in the area.

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 2 drake Pintail, 3 (1 drake) Goosander, 1 Pochard, 7 Goldeneye, 253+ Wigeon and 5 Greylag Geese (MB).

Dunnow Hall (entrance), Slaidburn (SD705414): Several Brambling present (MB).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 11.00hrs; 6 Goosander, 15 G.B.B. Gull and c.150 Lapwing (WCA).

SD6431; c.6 Bullfinch, c.15 Brambling and 2 Teal noted during dispersed waterbird survey work "on the hill between Osbaldeston and Mellor Brook" this morning (Steven Dunstan).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 12.00-12.45hrs: 23 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 10 Canada Geese, 2 drake Pintail, 30 Wigeon, Teal (a few heard up Bottoms Beck, only 1 actually seen), c.250 Mallard, 10 Tufted Duck and 5 Goldeneye. Also, 21 Common Crossbill flew over the path overlooking the Hodder inlet, and a single flew over the red trail along Bottoms Beck (AAC/JM).

Champion Moor (SD750530): A ringtail Hen Harrier and at least 1 Short-eared Owl seen (JM/AAC). Click here to view photo article on the SE Owls.

Whinney Hill Tip, Altham (SD757305): An adult Iceland Gull present to mid-day at least (WCA). Also, the aberrant Herring Gull still in the area. Other Gull estimates at the Tip, included c.2,100 Herring Gull and c.1,500 B.H. Gull (D.Bickerton). A Golden Plover flew SW at mid-day. Click here to view site guide.

Edge End Clough, Brierfield: 2 Hawfinches showing by the 5-barred gate at 14.10hrs, Grid Ref: SD855368. Also, 6 Brambling present (S. Smethurst). View the area in and around the garden, of the stone Bungalow called 'The Beeches'. Follow the public footpath along the South side of the school until you come to the end of the fenced school playing field and the field below is open; there is a 5-barred gate on your left. Look over the gate at the trees just over the wall on the right.

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 35+ Wigeon on the island, 7 Goldeneye (inc. 3 drakes) in the bay and a Barnacle Goose (MB).

Brambling; An unspecified number still present around the entrance to Dunnow Hall, Slaidburn, grid ref: SD705414 (MB).

Champion Moor (SD750530): A male Hen Harrier flew over the flood pool at 11.00hrs (Dave Fisher). Also, flocks of Fieldfare in the area (MB).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 21 Gadwall, 2 Wigeon (60+ grounded at the site on 22nd, in foggy conditions), several Shoveler, 4 Goosander, 30 Goldeneye, 30+ Pochard, 30+ Tufted Duck, 3 Teal (2m 1f), 1 Redshank,1 Snipe, 100+ Redwing and 150+ Woodpigeon (ASD).

Late news for yesterday: A female Greater Scaup at Parsonage Reservoir (TD). No sign on 24/12, but the bird appears to have been in the Parsonage/Dean Clough area for perhaps the past few weeks, therefore a check of Dean Clough Res (SD715330) could be worthwhile.

Snow Bunting; a male flew west over Sunnyhurst Woods, Darwen, at 08.30hrs (Birdcall report).

Late news for y/day: A 1stw drake Greater Scaup present at Lower Foulridge Reservoir, SD888417, morning at least (P. Hornby).

Hawfinch; Edge End Clough, Brierfield, Grid Ref: SD855368. At least 2 showing on + off, between 10.00-12.00hrs (JM), in the garden of the stone Bungalow called 'The Beeches'. Follow the public footpath along the South side of the school until you come to the end of the fenced school playing field and the field below is open; there is a 5-barred gate on your left. Look over the gate at the trees just over the wall on the right.

Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir, Darwen (SD676219): A grounded Yellowhammer present this morning, at 09.00hrs in foggy conditions. Observer presumes the bird will depart if the fog lifts. The bird was moving along the embankment, in the Willows with a couple of Reed Bunting (Mavis Smith).

Spade Mill Reservoirs, Longridge (SD618375): 2 Little Grebe, 5 Cormorant, 18 Mallard and a mixed Tit flock containing 12 Long-tailed Tit (LP).

Hawfinch; Edge End Clough, Brierfield, Grid Ref: SD855368. 3, in the garden of a stone Bungalow called 'The Beeches' (Birdguides report).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 09.55-11.00hrs; 9 drake Pintail nr the Hodder Inlet, 3 Common Crossbill flew over the causeway and 5 G.S. Woodpecker around the car park/feeding station area (AAC).

Short-eared Owl; 1 seen at Champion Moor today (Birdguides report). Also, a Little Owl seen (PG).

Brambling; Still present around the entrance to Dunnow Hall, Slaidburn, grid ref: SD705414 (MB). 100+ in Beech trees adj to the Inn at Whitewell, SD670469 (Paul Green).

Late news for y/day: A male Hen Harrier seen at Champion Moor (Andy Carson).

Hawfinch; Edge End Clough, Brierfield, Grid Ref: SD855368. Now 3 birds showing in the garden of a stone bungalow called 'The Beeches' this afternoon (B. James, P. Grice).

No sign of the Night Heron at Ribchester, 11.30-12.30hrs, but up to three Tree Sparrow by the Church (A. Clements/E. Ormand).

No sign of the Night Heron at Ribchester today (Birdguides report). 1stw Peregrine, Sparrowhawk and Redshank in the area this morning (Tom Hubball).

Hawfinch - Again seen at Edge End Clough, Brierfield, today. 1 bird seen this morning; Grid Ref: SD855368, in the garden of a stone bungalow called 'The Beeches'. Follow the public footpath along the South side of the school until you come to the end of the fenced school playing field and the field below is open; there is a 5-barred gate on your left. Look over the gate at the trees just over the wall on the right. About 12-15' along is a multi-stemmed Hornbeam. The bird was feeding in the crown of the tree - you may need to step back a bit to avoid too much of a crick in the neck. Lots of twigs - it may take a while to pick it up. Lots of Beech trees going down the clough, but worth checking the Hornbeam first (AAC/E.Ormand). 2 birds were seen this afternoon by Barry James and Geoff Haworth.

Hen Harrier - An adult male seen in the Black Moss Farm / Higher Moss Farm area this afternoon, approx grid ref: SD745524 (Nigel Troup).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 2 Water Rail showing early this morning (P.Grice).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 14.45-15.40hrs; 32 Cormorant, 187 Canada Geese, 11 Greylag Geese, 261 Mallard and Teal present (AAC).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 1 Short-eared Owl seen this afternoon (AAC). Click here to view photo article on the SE Owls.

Night Heron; The 1stw present for the fifth day. Apparently fairly active around mid-day.

Hawfinch; 1, at Edge End Clough, Brierfield, SD856368, today. The bird seen in a Bungalow garden nr the School, approx grid ref: SD853368. The observer mentions that a local dog-walker has seen it, at least a couple of times recently. (Glen Higgin per N. Leeming/AAC). Interestingly, one was recently reported from here on 27th November.

Short-eared Owl; 2 on Twiston Moor, showing from 14.00-15.00hrs (Barry James). Up to 4 SEO's and a male Hen Harrier seen recently (per BJ).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): A pair of Ruddy Duck and 11 Greylag Geese (E. Ormand).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 4 Short-eared Owl seen this afternoon (Tony Bennett).

Hen Harrier; A wing-tagged first winter 'Bowland' male, bearing a pink tag on left and yellow tag on the right wings, seen over fields to the north of Black Moss Farm (SD745524) at 12.30hrs. Also, Short-eared Owl and Curlew in the area. (Brian Breaks, Mark Breaks).

New Laithe Farm, Newton: Single Brambling and Common Crossbill seen (BB, MB).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): An imm male Hen Harrier seen on the hillside opposite the hide. Also, 11 Greylag Geese, 9 Pochard, 5 Tufted Duck, 1f Goosander, 8 Goldeneye, 1 Grey Heron, Teal, 30+ Lapwing flew thru and 40+ Siskin flew over. Birds at the feeding station located between car park and hide inc. 3 G. S. Woodpecker (BB, MB).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 4 Goosander to roost, by 16.30hrs. Also, The aberrant Herring Gull still in the roost (WCA).

No sign of the very elusive G.G. Shrike, NE of Newton, during a search today (BB, MB).

No sign of the GG Shrike, NE of Newton, grid ref: SD685503, during searches both this morning and afternoon, but several hundred Brambling flew east at 15.20hrs (JM).

Short-eared Owl - One seen to the east of Catlow Road (Slaidburn-Bentham road) nr Harkers (JM).

Red Kite; seen three times, 1.75 miles east of Dunsop Bridge between 09.30-10.25hrs, grid ref: SD685503, before flying NW (J. Reddish, M. Prestwood).

Great-grey Shrike; showing occasionally on wires, behind Clerk Laithe, on the Slaidburn road out of Newton, SD698509 (AAC).

Common Crossbill; c.20 feeding in Larches around entrance to Stephen Park, Gisburn Forest, SD740553, at 09.00hrs (Kevin Davidson).

Brambling; 40-50 feeding in Beeches around Bluebutts Farm, on the opposite side of the road from Dunnow Hall entrance, SD705414 (KD). Also, 50+ in the area where the Red Kite was viewed today, SD685503 (MB).

Woodpigeon; large numbers appear to be present throughout the area; c.3000+ in Ribchester area today.

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 4 drake Pintail, viewed from the hide (KD).

Knoll Wood (SD683500): 2 Common Buzzard and c.250 Woodpigeon in the area at 11.30hrs (AAC).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A Peregrine, at least 14 Gadwall, 12+ Shoveler and 2 Redshank present late morning (BB, WCA).

Two items of late news for yesterday; A drake Red Crested Pochard present on Thompson Park Lake, Burnley, at 15.00hrs. Grid ref: SD845333 (Ernie Wroe). Also of interest, a Woodcock flushed from Heather on Darwen Moor (MBS).

Langcliff Cross Wood (SD725521): A large flock of Brambling present (Jeanette Wilson)

Common Crossbill - A "small flock" seen over woodland adjacent to Stocks Reservoir this afternoon. No further details. (Jeanette Wilson).

Great-Grey Shrike - Seen at 10.50hrs, on roadside wires, on the north side of the B6478, approx 1/4ml NE of Newton, grid ref: SD700512 (Birdguides report).

Withnell Fold Flash (SD614239): 8 Teal (5m+3f) and 100+ Canada Geese (IC, HS).

Withnell Fold Sports Club Res (SD615228): 5 Wigeon (3m+2f), 2 Mute Swan and a female Tufted Duck (IC, HS).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 11 Goosander to roost, by 16.00hrs. Also, The aberrant Herring Gull still in the area (WCA).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): 2 G.C. Grebe, 2 Goosander and the aberrant Herring Gull mentioned in Fishmoor entry, present this afternoon (WCA).

Gisburn Forest, road between Stephen Park and Dale Head Church (SD740553): c40 Common Crossbill, c5 Lesser Redpoll & c10 Siskin in larches (one mixed flock).

Stocks Reservoir (car park to hide - SD731565): Whole area alive with Blue, Great, Coal & Long-tailed Tits and Chaffinches. Also 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Treecreeper and 1 Reed Bunting.

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 1 Little Grebe, 23 Cormorant, 4 Wigeon, 125 Mallard, 1f Goosander, 17 Pochard, 6 Tufted Duck, 7 Goldeneye, 1 Great Black-backed Gull.

Dunnow Hall Entrance (SD705514): 350+ Brambling feeding on Beech mast this morning. Note of caution: This stretch of road is quite dangerous. Parking along this stretch is perhaps best avoided (P.Wilson).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): At least 24 Gadwall present. Also, 16 Shoveler, 3 Goosander, 5 Dunlin, 150 Lapwing and a Peregrine (ASD).

Towneley Park, Burnley (SD854307): A female Peregrine over the Rookery (SD858306) at 15.45hrs and 100+ Siskin at Towneley Golf Course (G. Gavaghan).

Beacon Fell CP (SD568428): 20 Common Crossbill seen nr the Bowland Visitor Centre, grid ref: SD564426 (Birdguides report).

Anglezarke Reservoir (SD615165): The Great Northern Diver was present early afternoon, at the northern end of the reservoir (T+J Davie). However, the bird could not be located after 13.30hrs, despite searching by several observers (per ASD). It was not seen to fly off. From what I can gather, the Diver was first seen on Thursday 5th Dec, in flight, before ditching down on Anglezarke. It could not be located on Friday and was not seen again until Sunday morning. So, it appears the bird is mobile.

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): The female Greater Scaup still present on the upper reservoir this morning at least (Janet Davie).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 13:15 - 15:00hrs;. G C Grebe - 1, Cormorant - 28, Canada Goose - 81, Mallard - 51, Pochard 35m+8f = 43, Tufted 3m+3f = 6, Goldeneye 3m+5f = 8, Great Spotted Woodpecker - 1 (car park), Bullfinch - 1f (near causeway) and Common Crossbill - 7, near causeway. (AAC).

A late report for 8th December: A possible Common Crane flew east over jcn 32 of the M6 at 16.00hrs (Birdguides report).

Great Northern Diver - A 1stw, reportedly seen today and apparently present since Thursday, at Angleszarke Reservoir grid ref: SD615165 (per S. Dunstan). No further details as to what time it was reportedly seen at Anglezarke, in relation to the report below.

No sign of the Great-Grey Shrike, NE of Newton, grid ref: SD700512, in windy conditions today. 2 Raven flew over the site at 08.20hrs and a male Hen Harrier flew east along the River Hodder at 11.20hrs (JM).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 35 Pochard, 9 Tufted Duck, 7+ Goldeneye and 28+ Wigeon. Also, Common Crossbills still present in the area of the derelict building at the northern end of the reservoir, approx grid ref: SD729573 (MB).

Bramblings - seen amongst Chaffinch flocks at grid refs: SD725521 and SD705514 (MB).

Small numbers of both Redwing and Fieldfare throughout Stocks/Newton/Slaidburn area of Bowland today (MB).

*Great-Grey Shrike* - Present this afternoon, at grid ref: SD700512. The shrike was showing well on roadside wires by a partly converted barn on north side of B6478, approx 500 metres NE of Newton, between 15.30-16.00hrs, when it was seen drop down into the hedge, presumably to roost. There is a lay-by, with room for several cars on top of the hill, approx 400 metres past the barn (MB).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): The female Greater Scaup still present (T+J Davie).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 1stw Mediterranean Gull roosted. Also, an aberrant Herring Gull again, and 3 Goosander (WCA).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 10 Pochard, 9 Goldeneye, 9 Tufted Duck , 2 Wigeon, 1 Teal. , also Common Crossbills, Redpolls and Siskins reported in larches by derelict building. The bird feeder opposite the Vicarage garden (between the car park + hide) is proving very attractive to a variety of species, inc. Coal Tit (MB, BB)

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 12 Shoveler, 8+ Gadwall, 3 Teal, 15+ Pochard, 3 Curlew flew east and 1 Redshank (WCA).

Clowbridge Reservoir (SD825282): A Merlin seen chasing a Pipit over the reservoir at 08.05hrs (JM).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull, a minimum of 43 G.B.B. Gull and 1 ad 'argentatus' Herring Gull roosted. Also, 1 drake Goosander and an ad G.C. Grebe. A Short-eared Owl was perched on the perimeter wall of the field on the eastern side of reservoir at dusk (WCA).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): 7 Goosander and 2 G.C. Grebe present this afternoon (WCA).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): A female Greater Scaup present. Also, 4 Pochard, 1 Goosander, 70 Mallard, 1 Cormorant and a pair of Stonechat (T. Davie).

Clowbridge Reservoir (SD825282): An adult Whooper Swan present to 15.30hrs, when it flew NW (P. Grice).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): 6 Goldeneye and 1 Tufted Duck (T. Davie).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 14.20-15.50hrs; 40 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 202 Canada Geese, 17 Wigeon, 1 Teal, 189 Mallard, 1 Pochard, 10 Tufted Duck (5m,5f), 8 Goldeneye (3m, 5 fem/imm), 2 G.B.B. Gull, c1000 Common Gull to roost and c3,500 Starling going to roost. The new feeding area opposite the Vicarage garden is proving attractive - at one stage there were 7 Coal Tit present together (AAC).

Darwen Moor: A good movement of Woodpigeon this morning, inc.10,000 moving East + SE in the first hour of light. Totals between 07.40-10.00hrs: 11,500 East and SE; c.500 South and c.100 NW. Also, c.100 Pink-footed Geese flew SE (Mavis Smith)

Brambling; "Many" in Langcliff Cross wood, grid ref: SD726520. 30+ in Beech Trees just past Stocks Reservoir fishery entrance, along Catlow Road (also c.60 Fieldfare), grid ref: SD710552 and c.10 at Cowark, grid ref: SD672455 (AAC, EO).

Common Crossbill - 12+ briefly at the SE corner of Charters Moss Plantation, nr Dimple, grid ref: SD699166 (Ian Cameron, Harry Sumner).

Tawny Owl - Again sat in the opening below the roof apex of the 2nd last barn on the right, just before the bridge, when entering Slaidburn from the Tosside direction, grid ref: SD714523 (AAC, EO).

Collared Dove - Minimum of 20 at St. Huberts Church, Dunsop Bridge, grid ref: SD654502 (AAC, EO).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 1 Pink-footed Goose, 9 Goldeneye, 8 Pochard, 9 Tufted Duck, 1 Goosander and 30+ Teal. Also, 7 Common Crossbill in the belt of larches beyond the hide along the red trail. (MB, JM).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 08.15-10.45hrs; 32 Pochard, 23 Tufted Duck, 12 Shoveler, 17 Gadwall, 2 Teal, 18 Goldeneye, 5 Goosander, 1 Shelduck, 120+ Mallard, 140 Coot, 12 Mute Swan, 7 Cormorant, 1 Little Grebe, 2 Common Snipe, 1 Common Redshank, 1 Curlew flew SW, 300 B.H. Gull, 1 ad L.B.B. Gull, 2 Kingfisher, 300 Woodpigeon,1 Siskin, 2 Goldcrest and 15+ Long-tailed Tit (WCA).

Wayoh Reservoir (SD731178): 25 Common Crossbill at the northern end of the upper reservoir at 10.00hrs (Birdguides report).

Bowley, Gt. Harwood (SD728333): 08.00-09.00hrs; 2500-3000 Woodpigeon seen flying East and 16 Siskin flew South. Also, 5 Bullfinch, 84 Fieldfare and a single Mistle Thrush in full song (Steven Grimshaw).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): Upper reservoir; 1 drake Goosander, 4 Pochard, 1 Tufted Duck and 31 Mallard (Steven Grimshaw).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull roosted. Also, 13 Goosander (WCA, IC, HS).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): 5 Goldeneye (1m, 4f), 1 Tufted Duck, 1 fem/imm Goosander, 3 Cormorant, 10 Coot, 50+ Mallard, 50+ Lapwing, a mixed flock of 50+ Corvids, and, 100+ B.H. Gull (Ian Cameron/Harry Sumner)

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 10 Goldeneye, 10 Tufted Duck, 3 Pochard and 2 Lapwing. Also, Long-tailed, Coal, Blue and Great Tits, G.S. Woodpecker, Dunnock, Robin and Chaffinch on the bird feeders opposite the walled garden (Brian Breaks).

Gisburn Forest (SD750568): 20+ Common Crossbill flew over Swinshaw Top, grid ref: SD738573, at 13.00hrs (JM).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 21 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 87 Canada Geese, 81 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 109 Mallard, 8 Pochard, 9 Tufted Duck, 6 Goldeneye, 1 drake Goosander and 2 G.B.B. Gull (AAC).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 2 Water Rail seen early morning (P. Grice).

Hawfinch - 1 seen at Edge End Clough, Brierfield, grid ref: SD856368, this afternoon. No further details (P. I'Anson per N. Leeming).

Request for information: Has anybody seen any Hawfinches in Witton Park, Blackburn, recently, or in the past 5 years or so? If so, any details of how many, locations of sightings, any tips on best areas etc to look for this species within Witton Park would be gratefully received for a possible future article on this near-mythical East Lancs species. Indeed all sightings of this species in the Witton Park area over the years would be much appreciated. Please email the website.

Pendle Hill (SD803415): c.10 Snow Bunting around the area of the stile at the top of the steps, but mobile, this morning (Birdguides report).

A late item of news for y/day: 40+ Brambling in Stepback Wood, Darwen Moor edge, grid ref: SD673212 during the morning (Birdcall report).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): A female Greater Scaup present today (T+J Davie)

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): The 1stw Mediterranean Gull roosted again this evening. Also, 7 G.B.B. Gull and 12 Goosander to roost (JW).

Whinney Hill Tip, Altham (SD757305): Several hundred Herring gull present today, most of which roost at Fishmoor Res. Also, 5 G.B.B. Gull (WCA).

Slaidburn (SD712525): No sign of any Bramblings at SD715524 (see 17/11 sightings) this morning. The Tawny Owl on view, this morning at least, in the opening below the apex of the roof of the second last barn on the right, before the bridge, when entering the village from Tosside direction, SD714523. (WCA).

SD684475 (nr. Cowark): c.40 Brambling and c.25 Siskin feeding around roadside edge woodland (mixed Beech and Alder) this afternoon (P. Green).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A record site count (1998-2002) of 18 Gadwall. Also, 10+ Shoveler, 6+ Teal, 4 Goosander and 2 Kingfisher (ASD).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 3 drake Pintail. Also, Common Crossbill and Brambling heard at several locations around the reservoir (JM).

An unconfirmed report by a non-birder of a Red Kite, 1 mile NNE of Stocks Reservoir, at grid ref: SD734586 (per JM).

Cant Clough Reservoir (SD897308): A Water Pipit present this morning. At 08.20hrs the bird was present in the SW corner (far end of Dam wall from approach road). However, no further sign despite searching (P. Grice). Also, 8 Whooper Swan flew SE at 08.30hrs (PG) and a ringtail Hen Harrier seen (Allen Holmes).

Darwen Moor: 120 Twite, comprising of small flocks which joined together, before flying south, this morning (Birdcall report).

Pendle Hill (SD803415): c.10 Snow Bunting seen between the trig point and the stile (Jeanette Wilson)

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 08.00-11.45hrs; An adult Mediterranean Gull present on new working no.1 for much of the morning, still present 11.45hrs at least. Also, 1 Green Sandpiper in the area, 3 Common Redshank, 2 Common Snipe, a sub-ad G.B.B. Gull, 15 Gadwall, 12 Shoveler, 2 Teal, 1 drake Wigeon, c.30 Goldeneye, 22 Pochard, c.25 Tufted Duck, 6 Goosander, 12 Cormorant, a Peregrine, 1 Kingfisher and c.30 Siskin flew south (WCA).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 4 Short-eared Owl and a pair of Stonechat seen this afternoon (Geoff Pain).

Alston Reservoirs, Longridge (SD607362): 36 Goosander, inc. a high proportion of drakes, in to roost on the circular reservoir by 16.25hrs. Also, 4 Goldeneye (2m, 2f), 3 Cormorant, 1 imm Mute Swan, 17 Mallard and a gull roost of 1000+, included mainly Black-headed Gulls (Pete Bainbridge).

No sign of the recent Great-Grey Shrike present nr Newton, grid ref: SD686483, from 13-17th Nov, but Hen Harrier, Raven, 4 Common Crossbill, Bramblings and Redwings seen along Cowark Rd (MB).

Common Crossbill - 12 in trees near old barn near to where the GG Shrike was recently seen, plus parties of 4 and 6 flying over whilst on "Red" walk.

Redpoll - Flock 14 area near causeway, G.B.B Gull, Barnacle Goose with Canada Geese on island. " A Strange looking 'White Fronted' Goose on island - probably hybrid.

Darwen Moor: 40+ Twite flew east this morning and an adult Mediterranean Gull flew west (Birdcall report).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull (considered to be the same bird as seen last weekend) roosted this evening. Also, 2 drake Goosander (WCA).

Spade Mill Reservoirs, Longridge (SD618375): 14.00-15.30hrs; 6 Cormorant, 1 Snipe, 4 Mistle Thrush and a Goosander flew south (LP).

No sign of the Great-Grey Shrike, present recently nr Newton, Bowland, between 07.30-09.30hrs and 15.00-16.10hrs today. A ringtail Hen Harrier and 6 Common Crossbill seen (JM). The Shrike was apparently first seen on Wednesday 13th, not Friday 15th Nov as previously reported.

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 4 fem/imm Common Scoter, 1 Shelduck and a drake Shoveler present (JM).

No news either way on the Great-Grey Shrike, present nr Newton, Bowland, 15-17th November at least.

Common Crossbill - c.15 at Langden Intake, grid ref: SD630511, at 10.30hrs (JM).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): 12.00hrs; 1 Goldeneye, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Pochard, 1 G.S. Woodpecker, 6+ Brambling and 2 Stonechat (Tim Davie).

Pendle Hill (SD803415): 21 Snow Bunting "on big end of Pendle, over by the style at the far wall" (Barry James). Also, 2 Raven seen at the summit today (Jeanette Wilson).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 1 Short-eared Owl seen at 15.55hrs. Also, 3 Kestrel, 1 male Stonechat and 3 Reed Bunting (AAC).

Sawley (SD775465): 2 Mute Swan on the river, just upstream of the bridge (AAC).

Lower Ogden Reservoir, Barley (SD815400: 1 Little Owl seen perched on a nearby wall today (Jeanette Wilson).

Pendle Hill (SD803415): 12-15 Snow Bunting seen by the stile below the trig point, prior to 09.00hrs (P. Grice).

Brambling - Good numbers continue to be seen in Bowland. Indeed, it would appear that any area of woodland, particularly if Beech trees are present, are worthy of a look for this species at the moment. A flock of 200-300 present at Slaidburn today, grid ref: SD715524 - Take the public footpath on the SE side of the roadbridge, and the Finch flock were feeding on Beechmast in the first wooded area, approx 400yrds along the footpath (WCA, MB). Also, Kingfisher and Dipper seen on the River Hodder (MB, WCA).

Tawny Owl - Something to remember next time anyone is driving into Slaidburn from the direction of Tosside, is to glance at the second to last Barn on the right, just before the bridge, when entering the village, grid ref: SD714523, for the presence of this bird. The Tawny Owl was sat at the small 'window', below the roof apex, all day today, and according to the owners of the adj property, frequently appears at the opening.

Longridge Fell: 18 Common Crossbill, 2 Bullfinch, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Coal Tit seen today (P. Green).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull seen in the roost for the third day (WCA).

Knuzden Flash (SD719285): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull and 27 Teal seen this morning (D. Bickerton).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): Skeins of 310 and 170 Pink-footed Geese flew SE prior to 09.00hrs (DB).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): An imm male Hen Harrier seen in the area this morning (JM). also, 40 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 50 Canada Geese, 33 Wigeon, 17 Teal, 160 Mallard, 14 Pochard, 10 Tufted Duck and 3 Goldeneye seen during the morning (AAC).

Sparrowhawk - 2 males, just above Waddington village, over the fell road this morning (AAC).

Dunsop Valley (SD660501): Afternoon; 1 Common Buzzard, 3 Dipper, 3 Stonechat (1m, 3 fem), c.20 Siskin in Larches and c.25 Lesser Redpoll (going to roost in conifers just before dusk) (AAC).

A late report for Saturday, 9th November; 2 Bearded Tit reported from a garden in Whalley, grid ref: SD724367. The garden is backed by Sycamores, which in turn lead down to the Sewage Works. The birds were apparently seen in the garden Sycamores (Unknown obs. per D. Bickerton).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A Spotted Redshank present on new working no.1 briefly late afternoon. Also, 1 Common Redshank, 1 Green Sandpiper and 13 Whooper Swan (JW). 1 Dunlin flew W-E at 13.30hrs and 11 Gadwall present (P. Bainbridge).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): Frequent Brambling and Common Crossbill flying over various area around the reservoir this morning (JW).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 2-3 Water Rail present this morning (P. Grice).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull seen in the roost for the second day (JW).

Golden Eagle - The reported escape was seen from the Merrybent Hill cattle grid, SD708569, over Lamb Hill Fell, which is along Catlow Road (Slaidburn - Bentham) this morning. "A 1st /2nd winter, only seen briefly (white on tail and large white patches on wings)" (Graham Gavaghan).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 4-5 Short-eared Owl, an imm male Hen Harrier, Merlin, 4 Kestrel, 3 Stonechat and a Little Owl. Also, 76 Pink-footed Geese flew over Champion Moor Flood Pool at 14.20hrs (G. Gavaghan, unknown obs. per AAC).

Waddington Fell (SD717474): 4 Stonechat and 3 Meadow Pipit at SD722468, on the edge of clear area where rushes have been cut for clay pigeon shoot (AAC/EO).

Langcliffe Cross Wood (SD726520): A minimum of 4 Brambling with several Chaffinch. Also, a Treecreeper present (AAC/EO).

Pendle Hill (SD803415): 3 Snow Bunting seen this afternoon, approx 1/2 mile NNW of the trig point (Geoff Turner per JM).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 16.00-16.40hrs; 3 Water Rail and a record site count of 14 Moorhen (Nigel Leeming).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Mediterranean Gull and a different aberrant adult-type Herring Gull to last Sundays bird (with extensive white patches in the plumage) in the evening roost (WCA). Also, a pair of Stonechat in the field along the eastern side of the reservoir (Bill Berry).

Golden Eagle - A report of an escaped bird in Bowland, last sighted in the Newton area 'recently' - no further details (per P. Wilson).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): c.48 Common Crossbill flew over private land adjacent to the reservoir this morning (P. Wilson) and c.30 Common Crossbill around the Larches at the felled area at the northern end of the reservoir, approx grid ref: SD729573 (Alec Clements). Also, 1 G.C. Grebe, 1 Grey Heron, 37 Cormorant, 46 Wigeon, 119 Mallard, 6 Pochard, 8 Tufted Duck, 4 Goldeneye, Common Gull, 1 Greater Black-backed Gull, 4 Moorhen, 3 Coot, 1 female G.S. Woodpecker by the causeway and c.50 Lesser Redpoll in the Alders beyond the hide (AAC).

Gisburn Forest SD750568: c.60 Common Crossbill at Hindley Head nr Hesbert Hall, approx grid ref: SD750579 (Alec Clements).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 Short-eared Owl seen at 16.30hrs. Also a Little Owl (MB, AAC).

Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir (SD676219 / Darwen Moor edge: 07.15-09.15hrs; c.400 Twite, in two flocks flew East, c.100 Fieldfare and 10 Brambling flew SW and a Woodcock flushed from Heather, considered a new arrival (Mavis Smith)

Champion Moor (SD750530): 2 Short-eared Owl seen late afternoon. Also a Stonechat present (JM).

Barn Owl - 1 seen hunting at the NE end of Salmesbury Aerodrome at 01.33hrs. The bird was lost to view as it flew from the road towards the centre of the airfield (Robert Stinger).

An item of very late news: A fem/imm Marsh Harrier flew NE over Halsteads Farm, (approx 1.5 miles NE of the Hodder Inlet at Stocks Reservoir) on 8th September (D. Bunn, per JM)

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): No sign of the Great-grey Shrike in the felled area at the northern end of the reservoir between 09.00-11.30hrs, but 30 Common Crossbill in the belt of Larches nr the disused building, approx grid ref: SD729573 and a male Bullfinch (Jeanette Wilson). Also, no sign of the Shrike on the private land bordering the reservoir, during two searches, totaling 1 hour today (P. Wilson).

Higher Wenshead, Darwen (SD673215): 40+ Fieldfare, Little Owl and Reed Bunting.

Wayoh Reservoir (SD731178): 5 Pochard, 8 Tufted Duck, 2+ Teal, 1 Cormorant, 12 Siskin, Brambling and Bullfinch.

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): No sign of the Great-grey Shrike in the usual area at the north end of the reservoir today. However, a Great-grey Shrike was seen today on a private area of land adjoining the reservoir (Glynn Anderton). Hopefully, if the bird is seen again/settles in this private area, access can hopefully be arranged within the next few days.

Also at Stocks today; 12 Common Crossbill around the belt of Larches nr the disused building at the Shrike site at 11.10hrs, approx grid ref: SD729573 (D+J Beattie), 1 drake Pintail, a pair of Gadwall, 6 Tufted Duck, 5 Goldeneye (inc. 2 drakes), Pochard, Wigeon, Teal, Mallard and 1 Barancle Goose amongst the Canada Geese (MB).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 2 Short-eared Owl seen at 11.40hrs (D+J Beattie), with at least 1 seen this afternoon (JW). A male Hen Harrier flew across the moor at 15.15hrs (Alec clements).

Longridge Fell: 12.00-14.30hrs; A minimum of 40 Common Crossbill in Spruce trees, c150m up the track from Birdy Brow car park, puls scatterings of 3s and 4s elsewhere. an estimate of a minimum of 50+ in the area (AAC).

Brambling - 50+ near the hairpin bend on the SE side of Slaidburn, SD714521 at 10.15hrs (D+J Beattie). Also, 20 at Wilpshire Wood (SD710330), adj to Dean Clough Reservoir nr Gt. Harwood, grid ref: SD715330 (Janet Davie).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): A 1stw Kittiwake briefly in the evening Gull roost (JW).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): An adult Mediterranean Gull present on new working no.1 (the first pool north of the main pool), at 11.40hrs, when Gulls were flushed (JW). The Barn Owl seen again, in the area nr the conveyor belt at 15.40hrs (Tim Davie). Also, ad Peregrine seen twice, 8 Gadwall, 10+ Shoveler and 8 Wigeon, as well as numbers of Tufted Duck and Pochard. Also, 30+ Meadow Pipit and 100+ Fieldfare in the area (WCA).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the tenth day, but apparently very elusive today. Also, 8 Common Crossbill (6m, 2 ad female) in trees nr Swinshaw Top car park, approx 200yrds on the right down the hill towards Stocks car park at 13.15hrs (WCA). 25+ Crossbill reported at the Shrike site (per LDBWS website).

Champion Moor (SD750530): probably 5 Short-eared Owl showing on + off this afternoon. Also, 2 Little Owl, 2 Stonechat and a Golden Plover 'heard' (several obs).

Champion Moor Flood (SD749523): 12 Grey Partridge in the field between the gate and what remains of the flood pool, this morning. These are the observers first sighting of this species locally for over 12 months (MB).

Hen Harriers -an imm male seen at 12.00hrs, along the Slaidburn - Bentham road at approx grid ref: SD679612 (also, 2 Raven) (WCA). A male seen over fields between Champion Moor and Stocks Reservoir, late afternoon (EO).

Common Buzzards - 5 seen between Dunsop Bridge and Langden late morning (WCA).

Bramblings - Bowland; 2 with 10 Chaffinch at St. Huberts Church, Dunsop Bridge (WCA). 10 amongst Chaffinch at Easington nr Slaidburn, grid ref: SD712513 (MB). Small numbers noted at various areas around Stocks Reservoir today (JW).

Darwen Moors: 7 Snow Bunting (6 flew west, 1 flew north) + 15 Common Crossbill flew south at 08.55hrs (Birdcall report).

Wayoh/Entwhistle Reservoirs area: SD728176; 20 Common Crossbill feeding in Conifers alongside the road leading over the Causeway of Upper/lower Wayoh res, towards Entwhistle Railway Stn. Also, Greater Spotted Woodpecker in same area. SD722172; At least 3 Brambling, Goldcrests, 2 Treecreeper and 20-25 Long-tailed Tit nr Car Park (R+J Calder).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A Barn Owl seen nr the conveyor belt at mid-day (Bill Berry). Also, 12+ Shoveler, 8 Gadwall, Tufted Duck and Pochard, 10 Goldeneye ,3+ Little Grebe and 200 Lapwing. 1 Siskin and 1 Redpoll sp. flew south (WCA). 1 Water Rail and 2 Kingfisher and a Common Buzzard (Lee Parnell).

Pendle Hill (SD803415): 18 Golden Plover at the summit this morning (P. Grice).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the eighth day, present until 13.45hrs at least, 1/2 mile north of hide, along the red trail (Birdguides report). Also, between 09.10-10.45hrs, 30 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Canada Goose, 23 Wigeon, 28 Teal, 115 Mallard, 7 Pochard, 6 Tufted Duck, 2 Goldeneye, 1 fem/imm Goosander, and 1 Sparrowhawk (AAC). 1 Little Grebe, 1 Woodcock and 3 Common Crossbill seen by visiting birders (per AAC).

Haslingden Grane: 24 Twite, in 2 flocks of 10 and 14, reported "migrating" (Birdguides report).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the seventh day. Also, a pair of Peregrine, 5+ Siskin, 7 Common Crossbill, 1 Green Woodpecker and 5 + Goldeneye (Birdguides report).

Wenshead Farm Track, Darwen (SD673218): 2 Little Owl, 3 Stonechat, 3 Reed Bunting and a mixed flock of 20+ Fieldfare and Redwing (I. Cameron / H. Sumner)

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): A drake Gadwall on the upper reservoir (IC, HS)

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): A pair of Wigeon, 1 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye and 200+ Lapwing (IC, HS)

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 6 Shoveler (1m, 5 fem/imm) and a pair of Wigeon (IC, HS).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the sixth day. At 12.30hrs, the Shrike was showing well, eating the remains of a small bird, possibly a Goldcrest. Also, 15+ Common Crossbill and 350+ Fieldfare in the area (R. Stinger).

Champion Moor (SD750530): " Wow, what an afternoon! Arrived at 1415hrs and immediately saw two Short-eared Owls, this soon went up to 5 by 1500hrs. Two of the birds in ariel combat and very vocal, even resorting to wing clapping. Birds seen on both sides of road from our location next to the metal gate with the steps on them. At 1515hrs things got even better with a superb, close, juvenile ring-tailed Hen Harrier with left wing tag yellow and right wing tag pink. This would make it a young male from the Geltsdale breeders in Cumbria. The S.E.Owls continued to show up until 1630hrs, when we moved off lower down the road to the first Lay-by immediately after the Champion Pool road from Slaidburn, turning left from were we saw a another ringtail Hen harrier, untagged, going in to roost in the large field of juncus on the left of the road. Also 3 Stonechats on dry stone walls. The Starling flock must be around the 3,000 mark in the surrounding fields" (Graham Gavaghan / Glenn Hodkinson)

No sign of the Snow Bunting on Longridge Fell during a search today (T+J Davie).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the fifth day. Also, 25 Whooper Swan seen today. 19+ Common Crossbill seen in Larches adj to the Shrike site, c.15 Brambling and 11 Siskin in the coniferous plantation nr the island viewpoint, 1 juv Peregrine seen at 11.30hrs, 3 Sparrowhawk together, 3 Little Grebe, 1 G.C. Grebe, 3 Goldeneye, 17 Tufted Duck and 15 Pochard (JM, G. Gavaghan, WCA)

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 Short-eared Owl and 1 ringtail Hen Harrier seen late afternoon (JM, WCA, T+JD). Also, 1 Raven seen flying towards Stocks Res at 13.30hrs and 11 Golden Plover flew East (G. Gavaghan)

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 2 Swallows seen late afternoon. Also, 38 Tufted Duck, 35 Pochard, 15 Goldeneye, 3 Goosander, 15 Shoveler, 8 Gadwall, 10 Teal, c.50 Mallard, 1 G.C. Grebe and 2 Kingfisher (JW).

Darwen Moors: c.20 Knot flew west and 49 Common Crossbill flew SW. Also, 3,750 Woodpigeon (over?) Darwen and Anglezarke Moors. No further details. (Birdcall report).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the fourth day. Also, an imm male Hen Harrier seen at least twice on hillsides above the Shrike site (Mark Breaks), 26 Common Crossbill in the belt of 'autumnal' Larches at the Shrike site early morning and 1 Golden Plover flew over (D. Fisher). On the reservoir; 1 drake Pintail, 1 drake Goosander, 7 Goldeneye (inc. 2 drakes), 13 Pochard, 15 Tufted Duck, good numbers of Teal, Wigeon and Mallard and 2 Little Grebe (MB). 4 Whooper Swan were apparently present the previous evening (per MB). Good numbers of winter Thrushes in the Stocks area today.

Longridge Fell: The Snow Bunting still present, reportedly for the 6th day, mid-afternoon at least, giving "brilliant views" (several obs). Click here to view a photo article and directions. Also, small numbers of Common Crossbill in the area.

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 poss 4 Short-eared Owl present this evening (Breaks family). 7 SE Owls reported at 16.20hrs (per LDBWS website). Also, a ringtail Hen Harrier seen this afternoon (per MB) and briefly this evening (WCA). At least 3 Little Owl in the area and 1 Stonechat also present (WCA/MB).

Bramblings - still a few being seen in the Easington area nr Slaidburn, around areas of Beech trees at Grid refs: SD713512 and on the B6478 at SD725520. Good photographic opportunities to be had at the latter grid ref (MB, P. Bainbridge).

Late news for Oct 28th; A Water Pipit seen by Bernard Lee at Clowbridge Reservoir, but not seen subsequently (per JM).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the third day. Also, up to 30 Common Crossbill present in the same area as the Shrike, in the 'autumnal' belt of Larches until 07.55hrs at least (MB). Also at Stocks, 09.50-11.30hrs; 28 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 3 ad Whooper Swan, 1 Barnacle Goose, c.160 Canada Goose, c.320 Wigeon ( a large arrival overnight), 6 Common Teal, c.170 Mallard, 25 Pochard, 15 Tufted Duck and 1 drake Goldeneye (AAC). 1 Dunlin on the Island, 6 Pintail (3m, 3 fem/imm) and a male Stonechat by the Hodder Inlet (JW).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 11.45-12.15hrs; 2 Short-eared Owl giving superb views, sometimes right alongside the road and 3 Stonechat (2 male, 1 fem/imm). Also, Pink-footed Geese 'heard', just over skyline, not seen, but thought to be heading west, 28 Lapwing present on what remains of the flood pool, 3 Kestrel + Meadow Pipit and 10 Carrion Crow (AAC). A Merlin also seen briefly, early-mid afternoon (D. Bickerton).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 09.45-12.30; 5 Little Grebe, 10 Cormorant, 19 Shoveler, 7 Gadwall, 12 Teal, 10 Wigeon, c.60 Tufted Duck, 32 Pochard, 7 Goldeneye,1 fem/imm Goosander, 5 Common Snipe, 200 Lapwing, 1 Dunlin 'heard', 1 ad Peregrine briefly, 1 Water Rail in the reedbed in front of the hide,1 Kingfisher, 200 Fieldfare in Redscar Wood area, 80 Redwing, 12 Meadow Pipit and several Skylark (WCA).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The Great-Grey Shrike present for the 2nd day. Also, 3 ad Whooper Swan still present, 28 Cormorant, 68 Wigeon, minimum of 11 Teal, c.200 Mallard, 26 Pochard, 2 Goldeneye (a decrease of 8 from y/day) (AAC). 30 Common Crossbill seen by several observers in the 'autumnal' Larches, in the vicinity of the Shrike during the morning and 1 Swallow flew over the causeway at 11.00hrs (E. Ormand / N. Leeming).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): A *Great-Grey Shrike* seen approx 500m along the nature trail, past the hide, mid-afternoon (I. Cameron / H. Sumner). However, no further sign of the bird until dusk (AAC, JM). Also, 30+ Common Crossbill present in larches in the same vicinity as the Shrike, small numbers of Redpoll sp., Siskin, Redwing and a Stonechat. On the reservoir, 3 ad Whooper Swan present for the 2nd day, 3 fem/imm Goosander, 9 Goldeneye, 50+ each of Teal and Wigeon, 10+ each of Tufted Duck and Pochard, 1 drake Pintail and "lots" of Mallard (IC, HS)

Champion Moor (SD750530): A male Hen Harrier and 3 Short-eared Owls seen again this afternoon (E. Ormond per AAC).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A Greenshank present from 11.46-12.38hrs, when it flew SW, 1 Redshank, 9 Curlew, 1 Common Snipe, 1 Dunlin 'heard', 4 Gadwall, 1 Shelduck, 8 Goldeneye, 24 Pochard, 50 Tufted Duck, 9 Teal, 130+ Mallard, up to 4 Shoveler, 130+ Coot, 17 Mute Swan, 2 Little Grebe, 300 Black-headed Gull, 30+ Common Gull, 1 ad Herring Gull, 26 Cormorant, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Kingfisher, 2 Redpoll sp., c.100 Fieldfare flew north in two flocks, 5 Song Thrush and several Meadow Pipit (ASD).

SD716317 - 3 Siskin, several Fieldfare and a Redwing in the small disused Quarry, nr Rishton, known locally as 'Rishton Quarry' (ASD).

Late news for y/day; Stepback/Wenshead area, in Darwen: at least 200 Fieldfare feeding in valley just past the farm. Small number, perhaps 5 or 6, Brambling in Stepback Wood, feeding with larger number of Chaffinch, also a fem Stonechat on wall leading down to Royal Hotel public house, Tockholes, from Stepback, and another 20+ Brambling in Conyries Plantation (SD666195) between Roddlesworth and Belmont Road (IC, HS).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 14.05-15.55hrs; 3 adult Whooper Swan, 1 Little Grebe, 48 Cormorant, 69 Wigeon, 49 Teal, 381 Mallard, a Goosander, 3 drake Pintail and 3 fem/imm Goldeneye. Also, numbers of Pochard, Tufted Duck and Gulls similar in number to that of two days ago and a male Merlin chased a Common Snipe by the path beyond the hide (AAC, MB).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 Short-eared Owl were seen mobbing a male Hen Harrier late afternoon (MB). Also, 2 Kestrel, 1 Meadow Pipit and a Curlew flew South (AAC).

Bashall Town: 13.20hrs; a minimum of 60 Greenfinch seen flying into Beech trees and c.100 Lapwing in a nearby field (AAC).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): A pair of Stonechat again present below the Farm along 'Cut Lane', on the fence that runs from the lane towards the dam wall, mid-afternoon (JM).

Brambling - A small flock present at Barrowford Cemetery, Nelson, but continually disturbed by Dog walkers (Birdguides report).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 15.00-16.15hrs; 7 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 300+ Mallard, 5 Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, 3 fem/imm Goldeneye, 500+ (and increasing) Common Gull and c.20 Black-headed Gull coming in to roost opposite the hide (AAC).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 Short-eared Owl inc. 2 circling while drifting North and 1 going the opposite direction, calling, at 16.35hrs (AAC).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): A pair of Stonechat below the Farm along 'Cut Lane', on the fence that runs from the lane towards the dam wall, mid-afternoon (JM).

Two items of late news: 2 Chiffchaff seen at Rowley Lake, Burnley "last week" ( per P. Grice), and at least 1000 Pink-footed Geese flew East at Lee Green Reservoir, Burnley, in 5 skeins, during a 15 minute period, 09.00-09.15hrs on 24/10 (P. Grice).

Woodend WWTW, Burnley (SD825355): A female Greater Scaup present for the 2nd day (JM).

Earnsdale Reservoir, Darwen (SD670221): 2 Common (Mealy) Redpoll reported (no further details). Also, a Common Buzzard flew towards Roddlesworth Woods at 07.45hrs (Birdcall report).

Alston Reservoirs, Longridge (SD607362): 2 adult Whooper Swan present on the circular reservoir, mid-morning at least. Also, 1 Goldeneye and 1 Goosander present (WCA).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 07.30-09.30hrs; 4 Gadwall, 7 Shoveler, 15 Teal, Tufted Duck + Pochard, 4 Wigeon, several Goldeneye, 5 Little Grebe, 1 Curlew, at least 25 Common Snipe, 1 Kingfisher and 80 Redwing (WCA / P. Grice).

Woodend WWTW, Burnley (SD825355): A female Greater Scaup present early afternoon at least (per Barry James).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 2 Grey Heron, 44 Cormorant, 7 Canada Geese, 4 Wigeon, 45 Teal (down from 125 three days ago and 281 just over a week ago), 365 Mallard (up from 232, three days ago), 9 Pochard, 8 Tufted Duck, 3 Moorhen and 1 Kestrel. "No passerines in evidence" (AAC).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 08.20-10.15hrs; 19 Pink-footed Geese flew SW, 10 Goldeneye, 12 Teal, 7 Shoveler, 3 Gadwall, Tufted Duck and Pochard, 1 Curlew, 1 Redshank, 6 Common Snipe, 100 Lapwing, 1 Common Buzzard in the area, 1 Redpoll sp. flew South, 4 Siskin flew South and a very vocal Chiffchaff heard calling from the belt of trees by the log at 10.00hrs (WCA).

Stonechats: A male on wires, midway between the Larches at Langden and Smelt Mill Cottages this afternoon and 2 still present at Champion Moor (SD750530) (WCA, JW).

Swallow - 3 flew over Rowley Lake, Burnley, SD863327, this morning (Allen Holmes).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): An imm Whooper Swan present late morning (JM). No sign during the afternoon (MB). Also, 27 Pochard, 6 Wigeon, 156 Lapwing, and a Kingfisher (JM / MB).

Champion Moor Flood (SD749523): 2 Teal and 8 Mallard present this afternoon (MB).

Sunnyhurst Woods / Darwen Moor edge area: c.100 Goldcrest present + c.1200 Woodpigeon over (Birdcall report).

Brambling - 2 flew west (+ 20 Redwing) over Billington Rd, Ind Estate, Burnley at 08.20hrs (WCA).

Late news for 22/10; 6 House Martin flew over Low Moor nr Clitheroe in the afternoon (Alec Clements).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 09:30 - 10:30hrs; 1 Little Grebe, 24 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 20 Canada Geese, only 2 drake Wigeon (down from 74 on 18th), 125 Teal (no sign of the Green-winged Teal, Eurasian down from 281 on 18th), 232 Mallard , 9 Tufted, 9 Pochard, 136 Lapwing. "Wildfowl numbers usually go down here during windy weather, but only Wigeon and Teal seem to have been affected this time." (AAC).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): No sign of the Green-winged Teal between 16.00-17.30hrs. "Teal numbers seem much reduced and water level has risen" (JM).

Common Crossbill - 13 flew west over Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir, Darwen, grid ref: SD676219, at 14.10hrs (Birdcall report).

Fieldfare - 500+ flew SE out of Sunnyhurst Wood, Darwen, at 09.50hrs (Bill Berry).

Bramblings: Flock still nr Easington, grid ref: SD713512 and a flock still feeding on the road and in Beech trees at the junction for Easington, just before Slaidburn, grid ref: SD725520. No counts made today, but there were 20+ and 30+ respectively, present yesterday (MB).

Additional info of interest concerning the Bramblings reported y/day from just outside the area, courtesy of Pete Crooks; "I had an e-mail from Lancaster birder Ian Hartley this morning. He was in the Marshaw area yesterday and had a total of 870 Bramblings moving east through the area between 12.00 and 2.00 pm. Most were in flocks of 10 to 100, but the total included a single flock of 520 feeding on beechmast in the small area of beech trees by the road at SD 585 535. Interestingly he noted that all the Brambling moved off east presumably towards the Tower Lodge area - thus matching what John Metcalfe et al were seeing".

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The drake *Green-winged Teal* present for the fifth day, until 12.00hrs at least, though was flighty and elusive at times. Also, 3 Goldeneye, 2 Goosander, 10 Pochard, 5 Tufted Duck, 2 G.C. Grebe and a Dunlin (MB, Birdguides report).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 1 drake Goosander and a drake Tufted Duck present at 18.00hrs (WCA).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The drake *Green-winged Teal* present for the fourth day and present until 17.15hrs at least in the bay, viewable from the hide.Also, 4 G.C. Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 1 fem/imm Goosander, 4 Goldeneye, several Wigeon, many Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Pochard, 32 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Common Buzzard over the fell opposite the hide, a male Merlin nr Hodder Inlet, 1 Dunlin and several Swallows in the area. (AAC, JW, MB, JM, DB) The wood by the island viewpoint held 5 Common Crossbill, 20 Siskin, 20 Goldfinch and 5 Redpoll sp. seen in flight (JW).

Gisburn Forest (SD750568): Blue trail (from Stocks res car park); 3 Common Crossbill, 4 Brambling, c.65 Siskin, 20 Redpoll sp. (only 1 seen well was Lesser), 40 Goldfinch, 1 Green Woodpecker along with good numbers of Redwing, Chaffinch and Goldcrest (JW). Red trail (whole route); " followed the whole of the red route, very quiet but did have 2 flocks of Lesser Redpoll, c15 and 7". (AAC).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 Little Owl, 10+ Reed Bunting, 1 male Stonechat, 15 Goldfinch and 2 Kestrel (JW, AAC)

Bramblings: SD725520; 30+ feeding on the road and in Beech trees at the junction for Easington, just before Slaidburn. SD713512; 20+ nr Easington (MB). Just outside the area, several hundred were estimated in the Tower Lodge/Marshaw area of Bowland this afternoon (JM, LP).

Stonechat - 2 seen at Smelt Mill cottages, Langden (JW). A pair of Stonechat at New Laithe Farm, Newton (MB).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A Jack Snipe showed very well for most of the day, in the SW corner of the main pool. Also, 2 Water Rail, 3 Goldeneye (1m, 2 fem/imm), c.25 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 3 Gadwall, Tufted Duck and Pochard, several Little Grebe, 1 Green Sandpiper, 20 Common Snipe, c.200 Lapwing in the area, 1 Common Buzzard flew SE at 08.30hrs, c.300 Redwing in the area, 4 Fieldfare, several Song Thrush, 25 Siskin flew south up to 15.00hrs, 1 Kingfisher, 2 Sparrowhawk, 25 Long-tailed Tit 25 Tree Sparrow and 3 Swallow seen (WCA, JW)

Highercroft Woods, Blackburn: A flock of 10 Bullfinch present at 10.30hrs (Birdguides report).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): 9 Goldeneye (2m, 7 fem/imm) present (Tim Davie).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): The drake *Green-winged Teal* present for the third day and present until dusk. Other birds seen during the day include; Lots of Common Teal, 1 fem/imm Goosander and small numbers of Tufted Duck and Pochard. Also, 1 Swallow seen over the Church at 15.20hrs (JM) and a Tawny Owl at 13.00hrs (MB, WCA). In plantations adj to Island viewpoint this morning; 5 Brambling, 10 Lesser Redpoll, 15 Siskin, 20 Goldfinch as well as good numbers of Redwing, Goldcrest and 6 Reed Bunting (JW)

Champion Moor (SD750530): 2 Little Owls, 2 Stonechat, 12 Reed Bunting and a Swallow seen (JW).

Pendle Hill summit (SD803415): A male Wheatear present on the dry-stone wall by the style, at the top of the stepped footpath from Pendleside Farm this morning. Also, 2 Stonechat on the slope just above Pendleside Farm (P. Grice).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): Up to 4 Jack Snipe considered to be present by some observers, showing on the shoreline of the main pool to the right of the hide when viewing from the log at the 2nd passing place this afternoon (sev. obs). No sign in the area between 16.50-18.00hrs, though 1 Jack Snipe was visible in the bay in the S/SE corner of the main pool, only viewable from the SW corner of the main pool, looking across. Also seen between 16.50-18.00hrs; Several Common Snipe in the area of shoreline in front of the hide this evening, 2 Redshank came off the river at 17.40hrs, 2 Water Rail showing well, 1 along the shoreline in front of the hide and 1 in the S/SE corner of main pool this evening. A Chiffchaff seen this morning, in bushes nr the Conveyor Belt. Also, 12 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 4 Shoveler, several Little Grebe, 1 fem/imm Goldeneye and numbers of Tufted Duck and Pochard present (WCA).

News from just outside our area, courtesy of Pete Marsh; "Check Lancaster and Disrict Birdwatching Society website for yesterday for stuff from Thrushgill - mainly Crossbills still being there (NNEW today). The Crossbills are seen, usually in flight, from the access track running into the plantation in a SW direction from Higher Thrushgill (see Bowland Yellow map). Note definite Lesser Redpolls even further into E Lancs on the other side of the upper Hindburn."

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): Although not seen today, yesterdays Green-winged Teal could still be present as the Teal were well scattered across the reservoir. It will no doubt be extensively searched for over the weekend. Birds seen on the reservoir today; 1 Little Grebe, 59 Cormorant, 2 Greylag Geese, 289 Canada Geese, 74 Wigeon, 281 Teal, 230 Mallard, 8 Pochard (4m, 4 fem/imm), Tufted Duck (1m, 3 fem/imm), 3 fem/imm Goosander, 9 Goldeneye (1m, 8 fem/imm) (AAC). Most of the Duck were flushed, prior to checking by observers, out of the Hodder inlet area late morning, due to a Sika Deer Stag, which crossed the inlet from the left, and swam across the river/reservoir before disappearing into the Forest (MB/BB). Birds seen in the Gisburn Forest; 4 Common Crossbill (1m, 3 fem/imm), 2 Siskin, also, Coal Tit (AAC). Yesterdays Crossbills were seen in conifers by the first bridge along the path from the causeway along Bottoms Beck.

Champion Moor (SD750530): No sign of any Short-eared Owls, but 2 Little Owl present (AAC).

Darwen area: 1 Whooper Swan flew east at 09.35hrs. 2 Common Crossbill flew south over Darwen Moor at 09.55hrs (Birdcall report).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): 6 Golden Plover, 150 Lapwing, 3 Little Grebe, 1 G.C. Grebe, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Pochard and 8 Tufted Duck present early afternoon (Tim Davie).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): A drake *Green-winged Teal* present from 13.55hrs - dusk, viewable from the hide (John Metcalfe). The first East Lancs record. Click here to view an image of the bird. Also, two flocks of Pink-footed Geese flew SW during the afternoon, 67 at 14.50hrs and 65 at 16.20hrs. Small groups of Common Crossbill, max flock 14, in the area, 4+ Redpoll sp. flying around the vicinity of the hide and 80 Fieldfare flew NW (JM, AAC, JW).

Ring Ouzel - A female feeding on Cotoneaster berries in observers Worsthorne garden (SD870329) from 12.20-16.30hrs. Also, 20+ Song Thrush flew over. (Graham Gavaghan).

Houghton Hag Wood (SD873333): 100+ Fieldfare flew NW at 13.45hrs (G. Gavaghan).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 3 Short-eared Owls hunting together at 16.40hrs, mainly in the area to the rear of Threap Green Farm. A Merlin was also seen mobbing one of the Owls, 4 Reed Bunting were in bushes by the right-angled bend in the road and 3 Stonechat present (AAC, JM, JW).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 3 Jack Snipe, all feeding within four feet of each other in the open, approx 25m to the right of the hide when viewing from the log, this evening. Also, 2 Whooper Swan briefly mid-afternoon, 2 fem/imm Goldeneye, fem/imm Ruddy Duck and Water Rail present (Len Knowles).

Sunnyhurst, Darwen: 7 Brambling seen around the conifers bordering Earnsdale reservoir and 30 Fieldfare flew South at 10.36hrs (Bill Berry)

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 100+ Fieldfare present at 18.30hrs (Barry James).

News recieved from Pete Crooks: "I had a Red Kite to the north of Marshaw, west of the Trough of Bowland (ie as the January bird) at 11.50 am this morning. It was probably just over the line outside the East Lancs. recording area at approx Grid Ref SD 598 545, but hopefully it might hang around. Unfortunately the views were rather brief, distant and mainly of a silhouette, but sufficient to see the forked tail and pale area on the upper wing secondary coverts."

Swallow - 2 seen at Whitewell, SD659469. 3 were seen in the area yesterday (JM).

Brambling - Several at Brownsholme Hall, SD684454, today. Yesterday, 1 was seen at Dunsop Bridge, SD660501 (JM).

Darwen Moor: A ringtail Hen Harrier flew west at 08.30hrs. Also, a Ring Ouzel heard calling nr Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir, SD676219 (Birdcall report).

Fishmoor Reservoir (SD697260): 2 Stonechat present at 18.00hrs, along the wall on the eastern edge of the reservoir, nr the new housing development (WCA).

House Martin - 1 flew over the junction of Todmorden Road and Parliament Street, Burnley, SD846326, at 18.30hrs (G. Gavaghan).

Worsthorne (SD870329): 25+ Redwing and 3 Fieldfare seen at 08.50hrs and 3 Swallow at 09.30hrs (G. Gavaghan).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 09.05-10.35hrs; 23 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, only 1 Canada Goose, 77 Wigeon, 304 Teal, 180 Mallard, 2 fem/imm Pintail, 4 Shoveler (1m, 3 fem/imm), 16 Pochard (9m, 7 fem/imm), 3 Tufted duck (1m, 2f), 2 fem/imm Goosander, 129 Lapwing, 2 Common Snipe, 1 male Sparrowhawk, 20 Goldfinch nr Church and 6 Lesser Redpoll in Birches opposite Vicarage garden (AAC). Also, a Kingfisher reported by the causeway (per AAC).

Swallow - 4 flew over observers house at Sunnybower, Blackburn, in the evening (ASD).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A Jack Snipe showing almost continuously all afternoon, along the shoreline between the the right hand side of the hide - the point, viewed from the log. Also, 2 Rock Pipit at 14.40hrs, 3 Water Rail inc. 1 bird in the reedbed in front of the hide, 1 fem/imm Goldeneye for the 2nd day, 3 Pintail, c.35 Tufted Duck, c.15 Pochard, 7 Shoveler, 3+ Gadwall, 15 Teal, several Little Grebe, 1 Dunlin, 37+ Common Snipe, 1 Kingfisher and 2 Grey Wagtail (WCA, ASD).

Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir, Darwen (SD676219): 11 Common Crossbill flew S/SE this morning (Birdcall report).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): 1 drake Goldeneye present this afternoon (JM).

late news for y/day: 2 Common Crossbill flew east over Darwen Moor. Also, 3 Ring Ouzel seen (Birdcall report).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 50+ Common Crossbill in the Gisburn Forest, along Bottoms Beck, near where the red and blue paths split. The birds were feeding in the trees above the path and were also seen in flight on several occasions. Also, a few Redwing, Siskin and Redpoll sp. seen to flyover, as well as several mixed Tit flocks which included Goldcrests. At the reservoir; no sign of yesterdays Shelduck or Pintail, but good numbers of Duck and Lapwing in the bay (MB).

Alston Reservoirs, Longridge (SD607362): 15.00hrs; 11 Goosander, 5 Cormorant and a Grey Heron (PB).

Spade Mill Reservoirs, Longridge (SD618375): 3 G.C. Grebe, 9 Tufted Duck, 2 Goosander and 2 Grey Wagtail (LP).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): A Jack Snipe flushed from the margins of the upper reservoir with several Common Snipe this morning (DB). Also, 1 fem/imm Goldeneye, 6 Tufted Duck, 2 Pochard, 3 Little Grebe, 1 G.C. Grebe, 1 Cormorant and several Common Snipe (T+J Davie).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): 15.00hrs; 2 Stonechat, 1 Tufted Duck and 1 G.C. Grebe (T+J Davie).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 2 Dunlin, 1 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 30+ Snipe, 5 drake Gadwall, pair of Shoveler and 12 Teal. Also, up to 30 Swallow in the area at 18.00hrs (LP, ASD, WCA).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 1 Shelduck, 2 fem/imm Pintail, 4 Tufted Duck, 7 Pochard, 2 Goosander, 226 Teal, 3 Little Grebe and 1 G.C. Grebe. Also, up to half a dozen Redwing present in trees opposite the hide and a Bullfinch by the walled garden this afternoon (MB).

Langden Valley (SD615507): A Ring Ouzel seen at Langden intake at 10.30hrs (JM).

"Big numbers of winter thrushes on the move today with unusually high numbers of Song Thrushes in Marsden Park, Nelson . Also, single Fieldfare" (Kevin Singleton).

3 flocks of 30+ Redwing/Song Thrush seen whilst travelling along the M65 between Blackburn and Burnley this morning (WCA).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): 2 Teal and 13 Swallow seen late afternoon (JM).

Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir, Darwen (SD676219): A Jack Snipe seen at 08.50hrs, on the east side (Birdcall report).

Waddington Fell (SD717474): A flock of 100+ Redwing seen at 07.30hrs. Nearby, 12 Redwing and a Stonechat at New Laithe Farm (MB).

Brownhill Reservoir (SD897413): 1 Dunlin, 12 Common Snipe and a Kingfisher seen today (Barry James).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): 15.25-16.00hrs; 1 fem/imm Wigeon on the upper reservoir and a G.C. grebe on the lower res (AAC).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): Upper Reservoir - 16.10-16.30hrs; 1 fem/imm Wigeon, 105 Canada Geese, 29 Mallard (+ 5 on main res), 2 Pochard (a pair), 3 Tufted Duck, 6 Common Snipe and a flock of c.20 Meadow Pipit (AAC).

Darwen Moor edge: Seen flying S/SW along the moor edge this morning; 8 Ring Ouzel (in groups of 2, 3, 1, 2), a male Merlin, 600 Redwing and many Song Thrush and Blackbirds (Birdcall report).

Higher Wenshead / Stepback Wood area, along track below Sunnyhurst Hey Res (SD676219), Darwen: 20+ Redwing (flew up to Stepback from trout hatchery near Watermans house). A Spotted Flycatcher and a male Ring Ouzel in same heavily berried Hawthorn in gully between Stepback Wood and Higher Wenshead Farm. A pair of Stonechat and a pair of Kestrel also here, plus a flock of 50+ Goldfinch along track from Stepback to New Barn Farm (Ian Cameron / Harry Sumner)

Spade Mill Reservoirs, Longridge (SD618375): 15 Tufted Duck, 3 Pochard. Also, 4 Redwing and a mixed Tit flock containing 30 Long-tailed, 6 Coal, 3 Great Tit and 4 Goldcrest (LP).

Dean Clough Reservoir (SD715330): 2 Jack Snipe flushed from the marshy fringes of the upper reservoir. Also, 2 Stonechat present (JM).

Ring Ouzel - 1 along Darwen moor edge at 09.15hrs. No further details (Birdcall report)

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 50 Redwing, 30 Swallow and 20 House Martin seen (Barry James).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): The drake Greater Scaup present this evening (Bill Berry).

Martholme (SD752338): c.90 Redwing flew south at 07.45hrs. Also, 3 Teal, 3 Skylark and a Siskin (Steven Grimshaw).

Dunkirk Farm, Egg Syke Brook (SD739340): 1 Spotted Flycatcher and 1 Siskin. Also, a mixed Hirundine flock containing 60 Swallow and House Martin (Steven Grimshaw).

Withnell Fold Flash (SD613239): 128 Teal and 100+ Meadow Pipit this afternoon (Bill Berry).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): up to 11.15hrs; 15 Common Crossbill noted flying over the island viewpoint, SD733556, in groups of 7+2+6, between 09.30-10.00hrs. Also, the first 2 (fem/imm) Goldeneye of the autumn, 2 G.C. Grebe, 1 Little Grebe, 44 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 12 Canada Geese, 54 Wigeon, 292 Teal, 379 Mallard, 5 Shoveler (a good site count), 7 Pochard, 11 Tufted Duck, 6 fem/imm Goosander (increasing to 10 in afternoon (MB) ), 4 Snipe, 117 Lapwing (increasing to 267 in the afternoon (MB) ) , 3 G.B.B. Gull and 23 Redwing dropped into Gisburn Forest briefly, before flying west (AAC/JM).

Champion Moor (SD750530): 4 Stonechat present this afternoon (MB). 2 Little Owl seen this morning (AAC).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): Up to 09.35hrs: A Common Buzzard in the area. Also, 2 Water Rail 'heard' in the SW corner (P. Grice/Bill Berry).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): A small influx of Thrushes, including 2 Redwing, this morning. Also, 11 Teal present (N. Leeming).

Knuzden Flash (SD719285): 9 Wigeon, 17 Teal and 120 Canada Geese present this morning (DB).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): Up to 10.15hrs: The drake Greater Scaup present on the main pool, 25 Pochard, c.40 Tufted Duck, at least 1 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 3 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 10 Teal, several Little Grebe, 12 Cormorant, 1 Snipe, c.350 Lapwing, 2 Curlew, 1 Kingfisher and Water Rail 'heard' in the SW corner of main pool (WCA).

Rishton Reservoir (SD715300): 1 Wheatear on the west shoreline early evening (JM).

Pink-footed Goose - A flock of 76 flew E/SE over Belmont village at 08.00hrs (Roy Rhodes).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): The drake Greater Scaup again present. Also, a Water Rail in the SW corner of the main pool (there have been two birds seen in the past week), c.30 Tufted Duck, 10+ Pochard, 5 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 3 Gadwall, 2 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, several Little Grebe, 12 Snipe, an adult Common Buzzard in the area, an adult Peregrine briefly, at least 2 Sparrowhawk and 20 Cormorant (WCA).

Parsonage Reservoir (SD700320): 1 G.C. Grebe, 3 Little Grebe, 2 Teal, 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Pochard, 96 Canada Geese and 37 Snipe seen today (T+J Davie).

Dean clough Reservoir (SD715330): 4 Stonechat, 1 Wheatear and 2 Tufted Duck seen today (T+J Davie).

Cant Clough Reservoir (SD897308): A pair of Stonechat seen today (Barry James).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 1 Chiffchaff and 2 Water Rail present this morning at least (P. Grice).

Late news for Oct 1st: A Whinchat and Chiffchaff at Belmont (Roy Rhodes).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 15.50-18.00hrs; A male Hen Harrier seen briefly nr the causeway, a Sparrowhawk seen perched on stones opp the hide, 1 Dunlin and 6 Snipe. Waterbird numbers similar to that of Oct 1st (AAC, JM, MB).

Cant Clough Reservoir (SD897308): Of interest, a "stunning" drake Mandarin Duck with 80 Mallard until 07.45hrs only. (P. Grice).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): A singing Chiffchaff, 2 Merlin and a Water Rail 'heard' this morning (Nigel Leeming).

Langden Valley (SD615507): Approx 12 Common Crossbill in the Larches along the driveway at Langden intake during the morning (per LDBWS website).

Stocks Boardhouse, Slaidburn: A family party of 6 (2ad, 4 juv) Common Crossbill. Also, 30 Siskin present today, an increase of 24 on y/day (Pete Wilson).

Trough of Bowland (SD624530): 2-3 'groups' of Stonechat present (P. Wilson). Nearby, a Ring Ouzel flew south, just below the level of the road, south of the Smelt Mill Cottages, Langden (P. Wilson).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): During a brief visit this evening; 1 fem/imm Pintail, 5 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 10 Teal, c.50 Tufted Duck, 5 Pochard, 1 fem/imm Ruddy Duck and 1 Water Rail. "Didn't see the Scaup, but could well still be present" (JW).

Lee Green Reservoir (SD880338): 1 Chiffchaff, Kingfisher and 150 Swallow seen today (P. Grice).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 18.00-19.25; The drake Greater Scaup present on the main pool for the fifth day, 76 Tufted Duck, 18 Pochard, 1 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 1 fem/imm Goosander, 3 Gadwall (2m, 1f), 4 Shoveler (1m, 3 fem/imm), 4 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 4 Curlew, 30+ Snipe, 1 Kingfisher and 1 Water Rail present in the SW corner (M6 end) of the main pool (JW, Bill Berry).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): No sign of yesterdays Osprey from 06.43hrs - midday at least (AAC, JM). 4 Little Grebe, 3 G.C. Grebe, 14 Pochard, 6 Tufted Duck, 33 Wigeon, lots of Teal and Mallard, 2 Snipe, 1 Common Sandpiper, c225 Lapwing, 1 Kingfisher and a Green Woodpecker (AAC).

Alston Reservoirs, Longridge (SD607362): 14 Goosander, 3 Tufted Duck, 42 Mallard, 1 Little Grebe, 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Grey Wagatail. 20+ Swallow and 6 'alba' Wagtails flew over (PB).

A couple of late items of news for y/day: 2 Wheatear at Shelfield Farm, Nelson (SD888372), on dry-stone walls by Delves Lane and 18 Pied Wagtail flying SSW over Gorple Road, towards Hurstwood Reservoir, presumably to roost (AAC).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): An Osprey present opposite the hide until 18.30hrs, when it flew towards the causeway (D+M Aspden).

Upper Coldwell Reservoir, nr Burnley (SD905360): No sign of yesterdays Lapland Bunting this morning. Visible migration over the site included: Swallows, House Martins, Meadow Pipits, Linnets, Goldfinch, Redpoll sp, Gt. Spotted Woodpecker and a female Sparrowhawk. Butterflies: Peacock and Red Admiral Dragonflies: 1-2 Black Darter and 1 Common Darter (AAC).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): Evening; The drake Greater Scaup present for the fourth day, 50 Tufted Duck, 5 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 10 Teal, 1+ Shoveler and 1 Green Sandpiper. Also, a Water Rail still at the M6 end of the main pool - calls heard for the first time were suggestive of at least 2 birds present (JW).

Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir, Darwen (SD676219): A male Merlin flew west at 09.10hrs (Birdcall report).

Alston Reservoirs, Longridge (SD607362): 1 Little Grebe, 14 Goosander, 2 Tufted Duck, 18 Mallard and 1 Grey Wagtail (PB).

Lapland Bunting - Upper Coldwell Reservoir, nr Burnley, grid ref: SD905360. The bird was seen twice today, in flight only. At 13.00hrs, Gary Waddington flushed the bird from the track approx 400m past the upper reservoir in the vicinity of an obvious boulder. The bird then circled him several times, calling, before landing on the moor. Gary could not relocate the bird by 14.00hrs. At 16.10hrs, John Metcalfe flushed the bird from an area 25m SE of the track, approx 1/2mile NE of the upper reservoir at SD913362, but did not see where the bird landed and there were no further sightings thereafter.

Langden Valley (SD615507): A Common Buzzard hunting over Stakes End. also, 2 Kestrel (AAC).

Withnell Fold Flash (SD613239): 122 Teal present this afternoon (Bill Berry).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): Up to 10.45hrs: The drake Greater Scaup present for the third day, A Water Rail showed well this morning in the SW corner of the main pool. Also, 1 Dunlin briefly at 07.55hrs, 30 Tufted Duck, 9 Pochard, 2 Shoveler, 2 Gadwall, 7 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 2 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, several Little Grebe, c450 Lapwing, several Snipe, 12 Cormorant, 60 'grounded' Meadow Pipit and 1 Grey Wagtail (WCA, P. Grice, T. Davie).

Knuzden Flash (SD719285): 17 Teal and 7 Wigeon present this morning (DB).

Late news for y/day; 10 Grey Partridge seen from observers garden in Rishton were described as "the most I've seen in this area for years" (Dave Bickerton).

Common Crossbill - A flock of 10 reported over Whalley Banks, Whalley at 12.00hrs. Approx grid ref: SD738351 (Birdguides report).

Stocks Reservoir (SD730560): 16.15-17.50hrs; 3 G.C. Grebe, 66 Cormorant, 62 Wigeon, 185 Teal, 350-400 Mallard, 1 drake Shoveler, 10 Tufted duck, 3 Pochard, 4 fem/imm Goosander, 1 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 116 Lapwing, 8 Snipe, 13 Moorhen, 7 Coot, 250 Common Gull present at roost by end of visit, 30 L.B.B. Gull, Green Woodpecker heard and 2 Jays (AAC).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 08.00-11.00hrs; The drake Greater Scaup still present. Also, 2 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 40 Tufted duck, 10 Pochard, 7 Teal, 1 eclipse drake Shoveler, 3 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 1 Green Sandpiper, 10+ Little Grebe, 15 Cormorant, 350+ Lapwing, 10 Snipe, 80 'grounded' Meadow Pipit, 50 Linnet and 5 Reed Bunting (WCA).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): A drake Greater Scaup present til 18.00hrs at least (JW). Also, 41 Tufted duck, 10 Pochard, 2 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 5 Teal, 3 Wigeon, 1 eclipse drake Shoveler, 3+ Gadwall, 10+ Little Grebe, 6 Snipe, 1 Curlew and 350+ Lapwing (WCA).

Darwen Moors: A Fieldfare flew west at 07.40hrs. Also, 30+ Pink-footed Geese flew west at 09.50hrs (Birdcall report).

Brockholes Quarry (SD585305): 07.30-0830hrs; 2 fem/imm Ruddy Duck, 2 Shoveler (1 eclipse drake), 4 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 9 Pochard, 22 Tufted Duck, 1 Curlew and 350+ Lapwing (WCA).

Beacon Fell CP (SD568428): No Crossbills seen or heard between 10.00-10.45hrs in the area SE of the summit. There are still plenty of trees bearing cones in various areas of the Country Park however (WCA).

Withnell Fold Flash (SD613239): 103 Teal counted this afternoon. Also, 1 Snipe (WCA).