Gateshead Birders
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Little Grebe - 1-4 present on Shibdon Pond, Far Pasture and Watergate Lake from 29th February. Numbers gradually built up during April with 5 counted on 8th at Shibdon and 5-8 present at both Watergate Park and Far Pasture throughout April and present at these sites throughout May-July. One was on the pool at Gibside in June.Breeding was confimed on Goodshields Lake on 15th July. A single at Stargate Quarry on 2nd-8th August was feeding 2 small chicks on 22nd. On the 28/29th, feeding 3 chicks on small fish when one chick was observed diving. Three were on Watergate Lake and on Shibdon Pond on 8th. August, 6 on the latter on the 12th and 11 counted at Watergate on 31st August. Up to 5 remained on Shibdon Pond in September until early October and two were at Blaydon Quarry on 5th September. An adult continued to feed its 3 chicks at Stargate Quarry 5th-9th September but on 19th it was feeding just one chick - with no sign of the others. Presumably the male plays no part in rearing the young. A week later it was more independant and started diving. 2 on the River Derwent near the Cricket Pitch on 21st October. During November, 1 was on the River Derwent at Swalwell on 1st when still one noted on Shibdon Pond. Another single on the Tyne at Dunston Staithes on 7th. Several still on Watergate Pond on 14th-21st. 6 on Goodshields Lake, along the Derwent Walk on 18th December.

Little Grebe at Watergate Park Lake on 21st [Chris and Scott Swinhoe]

Great Crested Grebe - A bird in summer plumage found on the Tyne off Timber Beach on 8th May but gone the next day. Another bird, again an adult, was on the Tyne at Stella on 22nd-31st July.

2 shots of the Great crested Grebe at Timber beach in May

Black-necked Grebe - A juvenile on Watergate Park on 22nd-31st July. This was the second record for Gateshead.

Images of the Black-necked Grebe at Watergate Lake in July [Photos I Davidson, left and Paul Hindness, right]

Cormorant- 1 at Sled Lane on 25th February and 1 or 2 noted flying over Komatsu on 1st to 3rd April were the only noteworthy recordsin the early part of the year. One was noted to take a Common Tern chick from one of the breeding rafts at Shibdon Pond on 12th June. 5 over Team valley on 21st November. The roost at Shibdon Pond reached 50+ on several occassions.1 at Sled Lane Pond on 5th December.

[Bittern - 1 reported by staff at Blaydon Swimming baths on 15th March ]

[Night Heron - 1 probable reported over Axwell Park towards Blaydon Swimming baths on evening of 19th March ]

Little Egret - One present on 14th May early evening at Clara Vale Quarry until 18:30 and flew towards Wylam bridge at 18:59. Refound on the river Tyne at Clara just below the golf course, still present 19:50, when it flew down river and was never seen again. It may have been present since at least mid afternoon.

Grey Heron - Several feeding along the Tyne on the 1st January. On 29th February, 2 at Watergate and several attending to nests in the Borough's Heronry. 1 flew of Komatsu on 1st April. 3 at Shibdon on 8th - 13th April. 7 at Stella on 22nd July was a large count for there.

White Stork - Bearing a ring from Harewood House in Yorkshire, a bird was present in the morning of the 4th April before flying off to the south. This bird was the same as seen at East and West Boldon and Darlington in March and is the regular wandering individual which was at Lamesley previously in May 2002. One of the locals reports it being present since 19:00hrs on 3rd.

The White Stork at Lamesley Water Meadows and the ring number FIU showing that the bird originated from Harewood House, Yorkshire. [Photo PWD]

Mute Swan - The pair at Watergate started to chase their offspring off the lake on 25th January when another young bird was on the River Tyne at Dunston Staithes. The pair nesting with the female sitting at Watergate Lake by 21st March. 2 on Lamesley Water Meadows on 11th March. 2 flew over Kibblesworth Brick Pond on 21st March. 2 pairs on River Derwent at Owlet Hill on 18th April. Breeding at Shibdon Pond,with at least 6 cygnets on 13th May, the first young raised here for three years. The female and her cygnets disappeared for 2 days at Shibdon on the 8th/9th June leaving the male alone. She returned with the on the 10th but their whereabouts for those two days is a mystery. In September, the Shibdon birds were still present and the young were now getting flighty. Birds were also on Stargate during September. In October, one flew over Shibdon Pond on 3rd and again on 10th and 2 were present on the Tyne at Timber Beach on 31st.An adult and 2 juveniles were with the Whooper Swan on Sled Lane Pond on 5th December.

Whooper Swan - A single seen flying up the Tyne on 7th April.
At the end of the year, 6 west over Clara Vale on 16th November then a juvenile on Sled Lane Pond on 5th December and over Swalwell visitor centre on 19th.

Juvenile Whooper Swan (above)
at Sled Lane Pond on 5th December [Photo: Paul Davidson]

Geese species - 2 flocks thought to be Grey Lag and Canada Geese flew over the Ryton area on 15th February but neither flock could be identified. What was originally reported as a Barnacle Goose on Lamesley Water Meadows on 2nd April, remained to 16th May. However the bird was a hybrid, thought most likely to be Canada Goose x White -fronted Goose and obviously an escape. The bird reappeared in August escorting 2 very dark goslings.

The hybrid goose at Lamesley Water Meadows [Photo PWD]

Canada Goose - Maximum of 26 at Shibdon during January- March and 2 at Axwell Park throughout February and March. 2 at Watergate Lake on 29th February and on Lamesley Water Meadows on 13th March were probably the same birds. Up to 6 present at Shibdon during April with a least one pair nesting. and 6 young noted on 8th May but only 5 the next day. Other broods of 3 and 2 noted on 26th. Two over Clara Vale on 8th April. 7 south over Lamesley on 18th April. With 3+ broods and about a dozen adults regularly present, 35+ birds were counted on 27th June at Shibdon. The feral flock on Saltwell Park Lake held 49 birds in June and 64 in July. 3 broods of young still on Shibdon pond on 9th July. Up to 30 on Shibdon Pond during August including the 3 broods and 5 flew towards there over Stella on 15th August. A flock of 61 landed on Shibdon Pond on 12th September and up to 65 on the month during the rest of the month, with at least 85 there during most of October. 70+ flew over Shibdon and landed at Axwell Park on 7th November, They continued to roost here but to feed and bathe at Shibdon until the year's end. 34 on Watergate Lake on 14th-21st November.

One 34 Canada Geese at Watergate Park Lake on 21st [Chris and Scott Swinhoe]

Barnacle Goose- 1 at Shibdon from 17th March to 18th April was rather tame and probably an escape. It was joined by a second bird on the pond on 3rd - 16th May, but only one bird remained until it was last seen on 6th June. The 2 Feral birds from Saltwell Park arrived the Canada Geese at Shibdon on the 15th September and remained until at least the 27th October. 20 birds flew west up the Tyne over Shibdon on 24th September.

Grey Lag - 2 flew north over Timber beach on 1st January and 2-3 commuting between Watergate and Lamesley Water Meadows from 9th January to 30th March with 7 on the latter on 13th March. 2 were at Shibdon Pond on 28th. March and the same day, another group of 3 (with a Pink-footed Goose) were seen there having previously been seen over both Lamesley Water Meadows and Stella and from their tameness were thought to be escapes. 1-9 remained on Lamesley Water Meadows on 1st April to 2nd May. 3 reported at Shibdon Pond on 14th May, 1 still present next day.
3 at Lamesley Water Meadows throughout September. A skein of 21 Grey Geese, probably of this species were seen flying west over Blaydon on 28th November.In December, a skien of 20 Grey Geese, probably of this species were seen flying over Thornley Woodland centre on 4th. 2 at Lamesley Water Meadows on 7th to 28th..

Pink-footed Goose - c100 flew SW over Rowlands Gill on 25th January. On the 28th March, a bird with a group of 3 Grey Lag seen at various sites but thought to be an escape (see above). This tame bird was often present on the grass in front of Shibdon Pond on 1st April and last seen on the nearby football pitch on 13th May. A flock of 45 flew west over Shibdon Pond on 11th April.
A skien was noted flying west over Clara Vale on 30th September and a flock of 30 flew over several spots in the Blaydon area, heading SE in early October. . Another flock of 50 flew over Clara Vale on 23rd and presumably a different flock NNW over the A1 at Team Valley on 31st of October. 90 south over Birtley on 4th November.

Shelduck - A pair on Shibdon pond from last year moved to the river at Timber beach on 1st January when the pond froze. They remained there until the 10th before moving back. They were joined by another 5 on 16th-21st February. They remained there, some occassionally commuting to the river Tyne with a maximum of 14 at Shibdon Pond during March (a record for Gateshead at the time.Up to 6 still present 1st - 18th April but 14 again counted on 7th, 12 on 12th and 11 on 13th. 2 on river Tyne at Timber beach on 11th April. 1 on Lamesley Water Meadows on 2nd May when one also at Blaydon Quarry when the Gateshead record was beaten again with 16 on Shibdon Pond on the same day (A record count for Gateshead). 2-5 present at Timber beach 1st-30th May. A pair at Blaydon Quarry on 9th May and another pair on the river Tyne at Blaydon on 25th May. One at Shibdon Pond on 29th May. 9 present at Timber beach 3rd June. 2 at Blaydon Quarry on 6th.. 13 at Shibdon Pond on 12th June and 10 at Stella next day. One - four still regularly visiting Shibdon Pond during June.
There were no more records until 2 juveniles appeared on the mud at Timber beach in mid August, proving breeding has occured once again in the borough this year. One on Shibdon Pond on 14th September and 2-3 there on 16th. 1-2 present most days until 26th of that month. A juvenile on Shibdon Pond on 1st-3rd October and 2 adults there on 31st. 2 at Shibdon Pond on 1st to 7th November, with 3 there from 6th until 28th December.

Pintail - 2 (pair) on Lamesley Water Meadows on 13th-15th, 21st, 26th-27th March. See below.

The pair of Pintail at Lamesley Water Meadows in March

[Photographs by PWD]

Shoveler - A drake on Shibdon Pond on 14th March and it or another there on 3rd - 7th April and at Far Pasture on 10th. A pair on 29th May at Shibdon and the female at least still present next day. A female on Shibdon Pond on 2nd -18th July. 2 on Shibdon on on 12th-15th August and 3 were there on 31st. Three birds remained at Shibdon Pond 1st to 2nd September. 4 were present on 8th, 7 on 9th, 8 on 10th and 12 on 11th-16th. 17 were counted on 19th and 28 on 26th with 21 remaining by the end of the month. Still 20+ remained on Shibdon Pond 1st-10th October with still 6+ at the month's end. 2 at Shibdon Pond on 1st to 7th November with 3 there on 6th and 4 on 7th. No more records until 5 arrived at Shibdon on 27th and remained until the new year.

Teal - Maximum counts at Shibdon were 220(January) and 86 on the Tyne at Costco on 26th February. During March, maximums of 81 on Lamesley Water Meadows on 6th-30th and 75 at Shibdon during the month. 8-20were also on the River Tyne at Dunston, Kibblesworth brick pool and Far Pasture during March. 4-10 present on Lamesley Water Meadows, Shibdon Pond, Kibblesworth brick pond and the River Tyne (Ryton, Stella, Blaydon & Timber beach) on 1st - 30th April. 32 counted at Timber beach on 11th April. The only May records were 4 still at on Lamesley Water Meadows on 1st-14th. A female with 2 very young ducklings seen at Shibdon Pond on 17th June. A female seen subsequently but no further sign of any youngsters. A pair were present on 11th July but still no sign of any young. 4 present on 18th July and the first re-appeared on the Tyne at Dunston the same day. 6 on Shibdon on 8th August rising to 30 on 12th. 50 there on 28th. 6 on Far Pasture NR on 31st. Maximum count at Shibdon Pond during September was 60 on 12th. and 100 there on 16th-26th. Maximum count at Shibdon Pond in October was of 127 (21st). 57on Far Pasture NR on 18th September. Only a few, never more than 20, on the river Tyne during September to November. 130 counted on Shibdon Pond on 7th November. December counts included 71 at Shibdon on 11th and up to 20 on the Tyne most of the month. 60 at Stella on 30th was a large count for that site.

Garganey - 2 males found on Shibdon Pond on 8th May, present until late evening but gone by the following morning.

A Garganey drake at Shibdon Pond on 8th May

One of the two Garganey at Shibdon Pond in August/September [Photo: PWD]

A female-type bird was seen on Shibdon on on 14th August but could not be relocated. however two birds were found there on 30th August and still present 1st September. The two birds found at Shibdon Pond remained until the 15th September.

Wigeon - 2 at Sled Lane Pond on 1st January. 2 at Shibdon on 16th February. 4 appeared on Shibdon Pond on 8th Septmber, rising to 5 next day and 6 on 11-12th and rising to 7 on 15th-19th. 4 still remained until 16th October but a count of 18 was made on 30th September. A drake on the Tyne at Timber Beach on 28th November was probably the bird seen on the river near Sled Lane a week earlier.

One of the six Wigeon (above) and four together (below) at Shibdon Pond in September
[Photos: PWD/SF]

Common Pochard - 1 female at Shibdon Pond on 5th- 8th February and 3 on 13-21st and a maximum of 5 (17th) present during March. 2m 1f at Sled Lane on 25th February. A drake at Far Pasture on 12th March. A pair on Shibdon Pond on 4th April and 3 on 7th/8th.
One appeared on Shibdon on 12th August but did not stay. A Pair re-appeared on Shibdon Pond for all of September.

Tufted Duck - 50 on River Tyne in Timber beach area on 1st January and 12 there on 8th February. 30 on Watergate but only 1 at Shibdon on 25th January to 8th February, 9 on Sled Lane Pond on 26th January, and 2m 1f on 25th February. Maximum of 32 (29th Feb) and 12(March) counted at Watergate. 4 to12 present also on Shibdon Pond, Axwell Park and Far Pasture during March. Maximum count of 15 at Shibdon during April - June and a brood of 7 young appeared there on 16th July and 5 still present at the end of the month. About 20 birds summered at Watergate and one brood of 2 was raised. 42 were on Saltwell Park in July and a brood of 7 young was noted at Gibside. 2 were noted on Goodshields Lake on 15th July. A second brood hatched at Shibdon Pond on 12th August and three young still present on 29th. A few birds on Shibdon Pond all September but no sign of the young. 36 counted on Watergate Lake on 14th November and similar numbers on 21st. 7 were counted on Sled Lane Pond on 5th December.

Tufted Ducks at Watergate Park Lake on 21st [Chris and Scott Swinhoe]

Common Goldeneye - Up to 30 off Timber beach from start of the year to end of March . The same flock regularly visiting Shibdon Pond with maximums of 22-23 on 24/25th January, and 20 in March. 5-14 daily there on 1st-18th April. Elsewhere, a pair were at Sled Lane on 28th January.
An early bird on Shibdon Pond on 16th September but did not stay and another bird arrived there on 10th October.

Goosander - A male noted at Sled Lane on 28th January as well as the usual 1-4 birds along the Derwent. 2 separate birds flew south over Shibdon Pond on 14th March and pairs on the Derwent at Swalwell, Rowlands Gill and Lintzford during the early part of the month. 8 counted between Clara Vale and Ryton on 8th April. One male over Shibdon Pond on 11th April. Two males over Swalwell Cricket ground on 21st April. A female flew over Far Pasture and 3 females on the Derwent, south of the viaduct on 3rd May. A female was on Shibdon Pond on 6th and 29th May.
A female with single juvenile noted on 2nd July along the River Derwent by Derwenthaugh Park. Another female with a brood of young seen at Stella on 3rd and 9 noted there on 22nd July may have been the same family party. A juvenile was on the Tyne at Derwenthaugh Staithes on 31st. 2 redheads were on Shibdon Pond on 3rd October. 3 on the River Derwent at Swalwell on 1st Novemmber. A female on the river Team at Riding Lane on 4th and another redhead flew over Shibdon early on 14th.. Singles drakes not on the 21st over Chopwell Woods and Timber beach. A drake was on Shibdon Pond on 27th. Counts in December included 2 drakes on on Sled Lane Pond on 5th. 2 were at Stella and another 2 at Shibdon, both early morning of 12th. 2 more over the latter on 27th, 29thy and 30th.. It may be that only 2 birds are involved in all these records.

Drake Goosander (above)
at Sled Lane Pond on 5th December [Photo: Paul Davidson]

Red-breasted Merganser - A redhead on the new pond at Clara Vale on 23rd October but was gone the next day.

The Red-breasted Merganser on Clara Vale New Pond in October [Photo: GP]

Wood Duck - A female on Watergate Pond on 12th-14th November. Of unknown origin it is fully winged and unrung.

The female Wood Duck at Watergate on 14th [photo PWD]

Ruddy Duck - 3 drakes that arrived at Shibdon Pond on 7th April were the first of the year. Still present 8th-17th and they were joined by a female on 18th. All 4 birds remained on 9th May, later that number increased to 6(4m,2f) by 15th/16th and by 28th-30th there were 12 birds (8 males and 4 females). Minimum of 10 present during June, with the first brood of 8 youngsters hatching on 5th. At least 6 adults still present during July together with a brood of 3 young. A drake was on Watergate Lake on 31st July. In August, 3 adults and a brood of 3 young still present on Shibdon Pond on 1st - 15th September and at least 2 females and 1-2 young still on Shibdon Pond on 12th September and 2-3 between 19th and 26th.

A female Ruddy Duck at Shibdon [photo SF]

Osprey - 3 records - 1 reported heading down the Derwent valley over Thornley Woodland Centre on 3rd April. Another on the 23rd April, flew over the pond and headed west. It was seen a little later flying west over Newburn Business Park
One flew south, up the Derwent valley on 29th August at 11:15.
A single fishing on the Derwent between Far Pasture and the Weir on 20th & 21st.

Red Kite - The first Red Kites were released on 12th July. These were at Gibside and the birds all flew only a short distance into the trees. All 6 were still there at dusk. One was over Far Pasture car park on 13th. 2 soaring together on 15th and one wandering through most of the valley on the 15th. Two more released on 16th and 6 on 19th. 7 seen together on 23rd. A total of 20 birds released and during August were particularly tame and seen well. Up to 5 birds frequented Long Hill, Sunnsiide and other seen throughout the valley. Scattered records as far west as Birtley and east to Greenside during September-October, and all had deserted the derwent valley, most being in the Greenside area, often over the boundary, with a few records of untagged birds. None had returned to the Derwent Valley by the end of November. In the last month of the year, the first 4 birds returned back to the Derwent valley in the Rowlands Gill/Far Pasture area on 2nd/4th. By the 6th there were 8 over the Derwent Walk Country Park and 6 showed well at Rowlands Gill on 19th. 3 still in that area on 21st. At least 6 remained in the Barlow area all month.

Marsh Harrier - Possibly 3 records
A (female) gliding at height and speed from the direction of the Derwent Valley overhead Rowlands Gill in a N-NW direction on 13th April.
A possible male flew over the Derwent valley on 5th September. A raptor, though to be a probable Marsh Harrier in heavy moult flew over Clara Vale on 11th November.

Common Buzzard - One spent several weeks in the Team valley near Ouston in January before disappearing . Singles SW over Thornley Woods on 16th February and one mobbed by corvids at Sunniside on 22nd April . One seen at High Spen on 1st May and another bird was seen in the east of the borough at the start of July. 2 were seen with 7-8 Red Kite from Rowlands Gill viaduct but within the borough on 15th August. A adult but probably not one of these two birds, was heard calling & behaviour suggested of breeding early in that month.If so, this will be the first breeding record of this species in Gateshead. 1 noted at Urpeth Grange and 2 at Winlaton Mill both on the 8th September, and have probably been attracted to the area because of the Red Kite introduction. They were still present the next day. One over Far Pasture on 23rd September and 2 reported near High Spen in late October.

Sparrow-Hawk - Widespread sightings throughout the year. Exellent views of a male in February, in an observer's back garden in Rowlands Gill, as it devoured an unfortunate Siskin, the birdr had been helping to fatten up. A fascinating sight, never flinching as it stared back at him only about four feet away through the conservatory glass .

A male Sparrow-hawk and the remains of its meal (a Siskin)

One bird mobbed by Common Terns at Shibdon Pond on 2nd July, several noted in the Gibside area during the release time of the first Red Kites. Noted at many sites throughout the borough during august and this year's youngsters took to the wing. One was seen to catch but drop a juvenile Green Woodpecker at Stella on 11th September. Upto 3 on Ravensworth Fell during that month and many other sitings throughout the borough. 1 by the River Derwent at Swalwell on 1st November nearly took one observer's head off along the path by the river as it brushed past him from behind in pursuit of its prey. Other birds were noted harrassing the Waxwings at Whickham on 7th and flushing the Fieldfares on Ravensworth Fell, later the same day and again on the 28th.

[Goshawk - One reported over Fellside road, Whickham flying towards the golf course on 17th July]

Hobby - A possible bird was seen in the evening of the 15th July near Ryton and again in the Stargate/Stella area on 20th July. A definate bird, a juvenile was seen well but briefly at Shibdon Pond on 12th September as it flew over the pond. Perhaps the same bird was seen near the Washington boundary at Birtley on 2nd October and yet gain, or another, west over the Thornley Woodland centre the next day..

Merlin - One seen from a car at Lintzford on 25th February.

Peregrine - Report of an immature at Dunston on 2nd February and at Costco on 7th and a juvenile from Woodside, Ryton on 26th February. Seen again in March over Stella on 14th and at Woodside again on 26th. The last record of this dark young bird was when it flew over Shibdon Pond toward the Tyne on 8th April. One noted in the Team valley early in September with two Red Kites. In November, one on Barlow Fell, thought to be a young female, was seen to catch and behead a Starling on 19th.

Kestrel - Common, with widespread sightings throughout the year

[Common Quail - 1 reported heard at Ravensworth Fell on the evening of 9th June by one observer but could not be relocated at this very frequently checked site]

Red-legged Partridge - 2 on Ravensworth Fell from 21st March to 15th April at least and one nearby on 23rd July. 2 at Byermoor on 28th March.

Grey Partridge - 24 at Low Thornley Farm (an area where they have been scarce recently) in January. 14 at Ravensworth Fell on 2nd February. Up to 15 were present at Lamesley Meadows during February and a pair were at Stella on 17th April. 2 seen at Winlaton on 26th May. 2 at Stargate on 6th June and one at Burdon Moor on 13th. 10 at Crawcrook on 23rd July, one near Sunniside on 23rd and 3 at Blaydon Quarry on 25th. Breeding was confirmed when a family party of four was seen at Burdon Moor followed by 7 at Stella Haugh on 31st. 2 at Stargate on 1st August and 2 at Bewes Hills on 8th. Two more were seen at Stella on 15th. One was flushed opposite Far Pasture car park on 27th August. In September, 5 at Ravensworth Fell on 5th. A single was noted on several dates at Blaydon Quarry (5th-19th). Another single at Stella on 19th. In November, 20 along Riding Lane on 4th and 12 at Crawcrook Quarry on 28th were the largest counts. 7 at Stella on 24th was the largest count in December..

Moorhen - Breeding confirmed at Shibdon Pond, the Octagonal Pond in Gibside and Watergate Lake.

Coot - One pair took up territory on one of the new pools at Burdon Moor on 9th May. Breeding confirmed at Shibdon Pond, the Octagonal Pond in Gibside and Watergate Lake.

Water Rail - Noted occasionally at Far Pasture and Shibdon Pond during January. At least 2 calling at Shibdon throughout March and April. One still calling early morning of 26th May at Shibdon Pond and heard again at Shibdon Pond on 20th and 27th June. There were no more records until December, when one at Far Pasture NR on 4th and another heard at Shibdon Pond on 11th.

Common Oyster-catcher - The first was one noted at Stella on 23rd February. Passage continued during March resulting in a single at Lamesley Water Meadows and up to 3 at Shibdon Pond on most days throughout the month. 2 at Burdon Moor on 18th and Stella on 28th. 1 - 2 regular at Shibdon Pond on 1st to 30th April, 1 at Clara Vale on 8th April and 2 at Kibblesworth brick pond on 11th. 4 at Stella on 16th April. A single bird was still at Stella on 1st May and a pair were at Blaydon Quarry the next day. 1-3 frequently at Shibdon Pond on throughout May. 5 at Timber beach when breeding was confirmed at Stella on 30th May. A single bird was seen fairly regularly at Shibdon Pond on 1st - 20th June up to 4 present on most days in July.
A pair at Blaydon Quarry arrived on 1st May and were present throughout May and June. 2 chicks were noted on 13th June and all were still there on 11th July, the adults still present at the end of the month but no sign of the juveniles.
3 present in the Lockhaugh area on 19th June. An injured bird at Stargate on 27th June. Several birds were on playing fields in Birtley during July. One wasv seen on the Tyne at Timber beach on 18th July, 3 adults present on 1st August at Blaydon Quarry but no further sign of any young. 2 at Crawcrook Quarry on 5th. 16 on the river at Timber beach on 15th. 1 on the River Derwent at Swalwell on 1st November

Lapwing - 250 at Timber beach on 2nd February. 4 at Stella on 16th April w.en 9 at Crawcrook Quarry. 14, proably all breeding birds were counted at Burdon Moor on 13th June. The first birds retuned to both Shibdon Pond and Timber beach mid July but number still small by the end of the month both there and further upstream at Stella.. 75 on the mud at Stella on 15th August included last years returning leucistic bird amongst them, the number rose steadily until 300 by the end of August. Only one at Shibdon in September but a flocks of several hundred remains on the river between Dunston and Stella. 4 at Blaydon Quarry on 4th. 100 on Ravensworth Fell on 19th September. 9 at Barlow Fell and 12 at Shibdon Pond on 2nd October and only small numbers on the Tyne during the month. Still only snmall numbers around in November but 60 at Lamesley Water Meadows on 7th and up to 100 visiting Shibdon towards the end of the month. In December, the flock at Shibdon had risen to 229 on 11th.

Lapwings at Shibdon Pond on 28th [Chris and Scott Swinhoe]

Golden Plover - During January, up to 1000 at Timber beach during January and smaller flocks of 50-100 seen at Watergate and Birtley. Only 12 remained at Timber beach on 8th February. Several hundred at Burdon Moor on 18th March and 400 at Ravensworth Fell on 21st March. 30 on Ravensworth Fell on 3rd to 11th April and 200 there on 15th.
1 over Ravensorth Fell on 22nd August was the first of the autumn. 82 with Lapwings on Ravensworth Fell on 19th September. 17 were at Barlow Fell on 2nd October. The Ravensworth Fell flock numbered possibly as many as 1,000 on 24th-25th October and the same number were at Timber beach on 31st. 700 along River Tyne at Dunston Staithes on 7th November, but numbers decreased as the month progressed. In December, 44 at Timber beach on 12th was the largest count but a flock of 104 were in fields near Barlow Fell on 27th.

Little Ringed Plover - One at Stella on 1st April was the first of the year. 2 were here again on 23rd April, in flight as they flew over towards Newburn. Pair noted at Kibblesworth Brick Pool towards the end of April. 3 present at Stella on 1st May and a pair still there on 2nd and 1 on 15th.. One in evening of 7th May at Lamesley Water Meadows was a first for this 'new' site. A pair were present there on 15th showed very well in front of Ravensworth Arms, close to the road, at least one still there next day and remaining until 22nd May at least. Occassional sightings of birds in the Clara Vale Quarry area during May were also reported and one was at Crawcrook Quarry on 30th May. A pair confirmed breeding in a quarry in the west of the borough, with another pair suspected of doing so nearby.

One of the Little Ringed Plovers at Lamesley Water Meadows

Ringed Plover - 1 noted at Stella on 23rd February and 25th March but 6 there on 21st March. Four at Stella on 1st April and one on 8th-10th. 1 present at Lamesley Water Meadows on 26th May. A pair with young noted at Stella on 13th June.

Common Sandpiper - One on the river Tyne at Blaydon on 16th April was the first of the year. This was followed by one at Shibdon Pond on 2nd May and another on the Derwent on 4th. Singles noted at Shibdon Pond on 9th, and 26th, Swalwell on 10th and Lamesley Water Meadows on 16th May.
Singles at Shibdon Pond on 4th and near Wylam Bridge on 6th July. Two were seen at Stella on 22nd July and one on 29th and 3 on 30th. - 10 on Shibdon Pond on 10th. Probably the same birds were involved in the count of 6 there and and 5 at Stella on the 12th and 9 at Stella on 13th when another 5 at both the River Tyne at Costco and Shibdon. There was still one at Stella on 14th and 4 were further downstream at Dunston Staithes on 15th. Theere sire singles seen on Shibdon Pond on 20th and 28th August , at Stella. on 21st and Timber beach on 29th.

Green Sandpiper - One seen on the river Tyne at Clara Vale on 1st May was the only spring record.
One on Shibdon pond on 31st August was the first of the autumn. 2 at Lamesley Water Meadows on 1st and 1 at Blaydon Quarry on 8th. Another was on Kibblesworth Flash Pool on 14th and 2 at Blaydon Quarry on 15th with one remaining until the 29th. Another was at Crawcrook Quarry on 15th with two birds present the following day. One at Burdon Moor on 3rd September, 2 at Blaydon Quarry on 5th and another at Crawcrook Quarry on 11th. 2 were at Blaydon Quarry on 19th September. Another (or the same) there again on 31st October. One found at Crawcrook Quarry on 12th November and again on 24th.

Redshank - Up to 100 at Timber beach during January and 58 there on 2nd February. Maximum count at Shibdon was 20 in late January. Single at Watergate throughout February and 1 -2 at Lamesley Meadows in March. 35 at Shibdon Pond on 14th March and 2 at Kibblesworth Brick Pond on 21st. 17 on Shibdon Pond on 1st and 8-10 there on 2nd to 5th April. 2 on river at Ryton Willows on 8th April and 76 counted at Timber beach on 11th when 2 at Kibblesworth brick pond and a single at Lamesley Water Meadows. A pair possibly breeding at Burdon Moor were seen in May and June and a pair present at Lamesley Water Meadows on during May were seen with hatched young on the 23rd Only a single bird remained on the mud at Timber beach on the 9th -22nd May, with 3 on 23rd. 1 on the river mud at Timber beach on 6th June was the only record that month.
20 at Timber beach on 3rd July, rising to 40 on 10th and 60 on 18th. Up to 20 on the mud of the River Tyne at Stella, Costco and Timber beach during August. The occasional bird visited Shibdon Pond. Maximum count of 80 on the Tyne at Dunston during September and 24 at Shibdon Pond on 25th and 67 on 30th September. Counts in October consisted of a maximum count of 45 on the Tyne at Dunston and 70 at Shibdon Pond on 8th. Numbers rose on the Tyne until 170 there on 31st October. 60 at Timber beach and another 70-76 on Shibdon Pond on 7th-26th November. Small numbers most of December at Shibdon and Timber beach.

Greenshank - 3 on riverside mud between Stella and Blaydon on 29th-30th July. Single on Shibdon Pond on 31st . On the River Tyne, a single on the mud at Timber beach on 7th August and 3 on the mud at Costco on 8th. On the 12th there was one at the "Gadwall Pool" at Westfield, when another was at Ryton Willows. There were 7 on the River Tyne at Stella on the 13th, 4 still there on the 21st. One at Crawcrook Quarry on 15th. Singles at Stargate and over Sunniside Park on 22nd and Timber Beach on 31st.

The Greenshank on the River Tyne at Timber beach on 7th

Dunlin - Up to 112 at Timber beach during January. 206 counted at Timber beach on 8th February, only 20 - 34 present during the rest of the month. 1 at Timber beach on 18th April was the last record in the first half of the year.
2 at Timber beach on 14th August were the first returning birds, but were proably passage birds as they but did not stay. 2 others? on the Tyne at Timber Beach on 19th September was the only record. 2 on Shibdon Pond on 2nd with 3 there next day when another 4 on the shore at Timber beach. Numbers rose on the Tyne until 34 there on 31st. In November, 30 at Timber beach on 7th and 10+ on 14th and 27 on 21st..

Curlew - Maximum counts in the early part of the year were 44 in the Blaydon/Greenside area on 11th January and 23 at Shibdon later in the month. A pair displaying at Kibblesworth Brick Pond on 21st March and others in the Ravensworth Fell area later. Lamesley Meadows held about 40 on 6th February, while Ravensworth Fell held a maximum of 80 during March. 3 on Lamesley Pastures on 15th May.
10 had returned to Timber beach on 3rd July, rising to 15 on 10th and 29 on 18th. 25 at Blaydon Burn meadows on the 15th August was a good count for this site, smaller number present here the rest of the month, but 85 vounted on 29th, which is a very high count for this time of year. Numbers peaked at 23 at Timber beach mid month. Maximum count of 25 on the Tyne at Dunston during September, when one at Blaydon Burn meadows on 19th-23rd. Another single flew up the Derwent valley on 26th September. 8 at Blaydon Burn Meadows on 10th October and 20 on the Tyne most of the month. 50 in a field East of Lamesly Water Meadows on 4th November. In December, 49 were counted at Stella on 12th and 113 there on 24th.

Black-tailed Godwit - 1 reported at Shibdon Pond on 21st April was the first record this year. Then, in May, 8 birds, 7 in summer plumage, were present on the river mud between Costco and Timber beach from 12:15 to 13:00 on the 3rd before they flew downriver. One of the birds was colour ringed and it is thought that the bird was ringed at Farlington marshes in Hampshire.

6 of the 8 Black-tailed Godwits at Timber beach

Common Snipe - Maximum count of 17 counted at Shibdon Pond in January but only a single there on 18th March. 25+ on 8th January at Lamesley Pasture and 47 on 31st March. 3 at Shibdon on 2nd April and 2 on 11th. 3 at Kibblesworth brick pond on 11th April and another 3 at Burdon Moor. 2 at Stella on 16th April. One was drumming at Burdon Moor on 2nd May ans two were present on the East fields, Lamesley Pasture on 15th May.
One at Stargate on 13th July.and again on 8th August. 39 were counted at Stella, on the mud seen from the N. side of the river in mid August. These birds then came to roost on the Newcastle side as the tide came in. 5 were flushed at Burdon Moor on 31st August. 4-5 at Burdon Moor on 4th-11th but 20 there on 7th when 60 flushed during work at Lamesley Water Meadows. 16 regularly counted at Shibdon from 5th Spetember to 31st October, often just in front of the hide giving excellent views. The largest count was 20 seen on 19th October. 6 were at Crawcrook Quarry on 26th October. During November, 7 at Shibdon Pond on 7th when one flew over Timber beach. One over Chopwell Woods on 21st. Two at Stella on 24th December and only single figure counts at Shibdon

Some portraits of Common Snipe at Shibdon Pond in the autumn [Photos: GP]

Jack Snipe - Singles at Stargate on 1st and at Lamesley Water Meadows on 11th January and another showed very well at Watergate Lake on 29th February. One seen at Far Pasture NR on 4th April. Singles flushed at Stargate Quarry and Burdon Moor on 11th April. Another at Westfield Lane on 12th April.
1 at Shibdon Pond on 24th October was the first of the autumn. One at Stargate on 4th December was the only other record.

Woodcock - 3 were flushed from Clinty Wood on 11th February and 1 from the Tip at Shibdon on 15th. and 1-2 from near Ryton on 19th and 23rd. Another at Shibdon on 29th February. In March, singles flushed at Clara Vale on 20th and Shibdon Pond on 21st and again on 26th. A single flushed at Stella on 1st April and one flew over Lamesley Water Meadows on 4th April. Several roding around River Team valley at Kibblesworth Common on 2nd May and 1 roding over the Potter's Wheel pub at Sunniside in the evening of 4th May. 1-2 seen frequently over an hour at sunset in Gibside on 6th July. There was a report of 6 flushed from Reely Mires in late October Records in December included one seen at Barlow Fell on 2nd and another at Wetfield Pasture on 14th. One was at Stella on 24th.

Kittiwake - First birds returned on 7th April and regular thereafter. 1-2 occassionally seen upriver at Dunston during the month from the colony at the Baltic Mill, occassionaly resting on the old staithes. One further upstream at Blaydon on 25th May. About 80 nests were in use at the Kittiwake Tower. This is approximatley 10% down on last year. 109 adults were counted there on 17th June. later 36 young were ringed out of 51 present in July.

Great Black-backed Gull - Maximum count was 92 on the river Tyne tidal mudflats at Stella on 4th January.

Common Gull - 148 in Blaydon/Greenside area on 18th - 30th January and 5 at Sled Lane on 25th February. The first juvenile arrived on 19th June at Shibdon Pond.

Black-headed Gull -Several thousand in the Dunston/Shibdon area on 1st January. 124 in Blaydon/Greenside area on 8th January and 34 were counted at Sled Lane on 25th February and 600+ at Timber beach the next day. Like Common Gull, the first juveniles arrived on 19th June.

A 1st winter Black-headed Gull in flight

[Photograph by SF]

Mediterranean Gull - 1 at Watergate Park on 22nd January. An adult, moulting into summer plumage at Shibdon Pond on 15th, 17th, 20th & 21st February. One was reported at Fellside road, Whickham mid September.

The adult Mediterranean Gull at Shibdon Pond (with Black-headed Gulls and a Canada Goose) in February

[Photograph by PWD]

Iceland Gull - An adult at Shibdon Pond on 26th February and on River Tyne opposite Newburn on 17th, 18th and 24th March.

Lesser Black-backed Gull - An adult at Shibdon Pond on 28th February by early March they were regular throughout the borough. Maximum count was 9 on Shibdon Pond on 3rd June and 6 noted daily throughout June to August.. Still 1-5 at several sites to 26th September.

Common Tern - A single that was on the breeding rafts at Shibdon Pond on 2nd May was the first of the year. Still present next day. One or two present until the 9th when large increase and about 15 present here and on the river Tyne. Maximum count was 35 counted at Shibdon on 16th May. 8+ pr on the breeding rafts at Shibdon Pond on 1st June, rising to 22+ pair on 13th. The birds are feeding on the River Tyne and at Stargate Quarry as well as the pond. 46 birds counted on 12th June. First chicks were seen on the 26th June. Breeding on Shidon Pond went well and the birds are mobbing anything that came near including Grey Herons, Sparrow-Hawks and Gulls. However they could not do much for the bad weather during the early part of the July and most of the nests were washed out on the rafts with few chicks surviving. An oiled bird, initially thought to be an Arctic Tern present 17th-18th and 27 birds, adults and a few juveniles were still present on 31st July. Only a few birds remained at Shibdon at the start of August, with the last being 3 adults on 15th.
Elsewhere, 5 on 10th July were fishing over Stargate Ponds in the evening, a very high count for this site. 2 at both Stargate and Goodsheilds Lake on 15th July.

[Arctic Tern - One was reported arriving at Saltwell Park on 18th July for but leaving after 15 minutes].

Black Tern - One was on the River Tyne at Stella on the 13th.

Barn Owl - One by the A1 at Birtley on 26th October. A Barn Owl was heard calling in the early evening of the 1st December at Clara Vale, and again on 28th. It is the first recorded at this site for very many years.

Tawny Owl - 1 heard at Axwell Park on 7th March and another at Sunniside on 12th March. One noted roosting at Ryton on 8th April and one seen on Derwent Walk on 11th. Others at Axwell Park on 12th and Birtley on 15th. On the South side of river Derwent the nestbox scheme had 6 of 10 occupied, 2 subsequently failed yet on the North side of the Derwent only 1 pair successful with only 1 young. Also brood of 2 ringed in Stella Park, Blaydon. In the Ravensworth Fell area - one used a nestbox for 1the first time & reared one young. Several calling in Chopwell Woods on 10th June and one in Saltwell Park on 20th. One at Blaydon Burn Meadows in the evening of 21st June. At Blaydon Burn on 11th July, one laanded on tree and watched observer from a distance of one metre! Seconds later it flew onto the top of a telegraph pole to observe again from point blank range. A very tame bird. Another bird seen at Path Head Wood on 13th July.
One noted at Birtley on 29th September. A bird was noted at Hedgefield Pasture on 9th October. Two Tawny Owls were calling in the evening on 26th in Clara Vale village. One was heard calling at Axwell Park on 3rd November and another at Clara Vale, on 16th

Little Owl - Singles noted at Lamesley and Westfield Lane, Ryton in January .Single at Clara Vale on 8th and 12th April. One seen again on Ravensworth Fell on 12th April. One seen at Crawcrook Quarry on 12th June. One on Ravensworth Fell on 3rd July and one on Pennyfine Road, Sunniside on 8th July. 2 juveniles were seen in Crawcrook Quarry on 6th July and again on 23rd and 2 at Barlow Fell on 25th. 1 at Coalburns Plantation on 30th August. One bird at one of the regular spots on Ravensworth Fell on 28th November. One at Burdon Moor on 19th December.

The Little Owl at Lamesley in January

[Photograph by PWD]

Short-eared Owl - 1 flushed at Burdon Moor on 8th February and again on 15th. One at Hollinhill Lane, Rowlands Gill on 12th March.
2 were seen at Burdon Moor on 24th October and a single there on 5th December.

Long-eared Owl - One flushed at Ravensworth on 26th March and a bird was heard calling in Axwell Park on the evening of the 22nd May. A bird flew over Ravensworth Fell in bad weather and landed in a nearby tree on 11th July.

Kingfisher- 4 regular at the Curling Pond, Ryton during January and February. One regular at Thornley Feeding Station Pond in January and February where on the 1st Feb. it was observed catching 5 fish. 2 were noted at Far Pasture on 15th February. 1 at Shibdon Pond on 16th and 28th March. One flushed from a tree by the hide at Shibdon Pond on 1st April. One seen regularly throughout April at Ryton Willows. One on River Derwent by Lockhaugh Meadows on 11th April. 1 at Shibdon Pond on 12th and 13th June and another at Blaydon Burn on 20th. 1 at Shibdon Pond on 15th, 17th and 31st July and another at Far Pasture on 18th July. In August, a single showed well on several dates in fron of the hide at Shibdon 6th-8th and again on 19th with two were there on 11th. 1-3 regular all month at Ryton Willows. A very unusual record on the 13th August concerned a bird that was seen inside the Komatsu factory at Birtley. It perched for a while then flew back out of the door. One was seen at Shibdon Pond on 10th and 26th September, one at Far Pasture NR on 15th and another noted at Clara Vale LNR on 17th, 25th and 26th. Present again on the morning of the 3rd October, at Clara Vale LNR, on the new pond for at least an hour and still there on 23rd. One on the river Team at Riding Lane on 4th November. Another was seen on the Tyne at Timber beach on 7th and at Shibdon Pond on 14th. The usual bird on the new pond at Clara Vale LNR on 29th. One at Far Pasture NR on 4th December.

The Kingfisher at Clara Vale LNR in October [Photos: GP]

Hoopoe - A bird was seen flying over the A1 and over the western side of Shibdon Pond by a very lucky observer on 1st. It was extensively looked for but without success but may well have been lurking in some local garden.

Great Spotted Woodpecker - Up to 3 on the feeders at Thornley on 25th January and 1-4 during the month at Ryton Willow, Chopwell Woods and near Crawcrook. . Drumming at Strother Hills from 27th January and Ryton Willows on 30th. One over Ryton GC on 8th April. 1-3 regular as usual at Thornley Woodland centre throughout April. During the summer also noted at Gibside and Marley Hill. Out of place records in September included birds at Burdon Moor on 5th and Lamesley Water Meadows on 12th. A male at Blaydon Burn on 15th. 6 at Chopwell Woods on 21st November and 4 trapped at Clara Vale during the month plus a number of other reports. It appears there has been an increase in numbers with many birds being reported to be juvenile/immature.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker - One reportedly heard and seen on 3rd April in the same area as in the past 2 years. This bird could not be relocated despite many hours of searching.

Green Woodpecker - 1 at Byermoor on 23rd January. 3 at Lintzford on 29th February. One at Marley Hill from 17th February to 27th March and another at Derwenthaugh on the 9th. Also in March, one calling at Victoria Garesfield on 21st and a bird was present early morning of the 27th at Shibdon Pond. 1-2 at Thornley Woodland centre and others along the Derwent Walk all April. Single birds also noted at Lamesley on 4th April, Shibdon Pond on 10th and 24th and Far Pasture on 11th-30th. One at Shibdon Pond on 16th May when others noted at Blaydon Burn and Blaydon Quarry. One at Lintzford on 30th May. 1 noted over Stargate on 6th June and another over Crawcrook Quarry on 13th. 1 at Chopwell Woods on 1st July and another at Watergate Park on 25th. The very regular bird at Stargate on many occassions from 13th July to 8th August. One at Ryton Willows on 12th. A juvenile was caught at Stella on 11th September by a Sparrow-Hawk. The bird was dropped by the raptor but the observor found that it was far too injured and had to be destroyed. In Axwell Park, one of the gardens on the estate on 12th. Singles at Stargate and Pathhead Quarry on 19th. In October, one foraging in horse grazing field off Derwent Walk at Rowlands Gill on 4th. Another at Clara Vale LNR the same day and again on 23rd. Singles at both Path Head Quarry and Bewes Hills on 10th. 1 at Clara Vale LNR on 29th November.

Cuckoo - A bird was heard calling south of Shibdon Bank, Blaydon on 2nd May and another was at Stargate on 5th. A calling bird regular from the 14th May until the month's end. A pair see at Stargate on 16th May and one was heard calling at Clara Vale on 18th May and it or another on 28th. Also yet another along the Derwent Walk on 20th. Further sightings were at Far Pasture on 21st and at Barmoor on 23rd May. One called at Winlaton on 26th and what may have been the same bird, later at Stagate ,where it continued to call to 22:00 hrs. Finally 1 at High Spen on 27th May, with the calling bird at Barlow still there until 14th June. Both a male and a female heard in the Lockhaugh area on 19th and 29th June. One at at Bewes Hills on 23rd - 27th June and again calling on the late date of 5th July

Wood Pigeon - Reports of 1,300+ from Blaydon, Crawcrook, Chopwell Woods, Ryton Willows and Ryton Woodside in January.

Stock Dove - Noted at several sites in the first half of the year including near Crawcrook. A pair prospecting a nest site on the old wooden jetty at Timber beach on 11th April. One noted at Burdon Moor on 5th September and other singles at Far Pasture on 11th and on Ravensworth Fell on 19th.. 2 at Timber beach on 26th September.

Common Swift - The first birds appeared on the 28th April in the Derwent valley, more were seen on the 29th. These were quite late compared to many sites in the county. On the 30th April there were 3 at Clara Vale, followed by 30 in the evening at Shibdon Pond. One at Clara Vale on 1st, May, 6 at Shibdon Pond and a single at Lamesley on 2nd May and subsequently regular throughout the borough. Maximum counts were 15 at Shibdon on 8th May and 60 there on 13th June and 80 at Saltwell Park on 20th June. Breeding was confirmed at Sunniside in July with one chick fledged on 13th. Up to 8 still presentat Shibdon and Stargate on 8th August but birds disappeared rapidly with the last being at Clara Vale on 28th and Shibdon Pond and Stargate on 29th August. The only records for September were 2 at Clara Vale on 10th and 1 over Shibdon Pond on 19th.

Waxwing- 6 reported at Metrocentre on 12th and 17th January. 20-31 on Thornley Lane, Rowlands Gill on 28th/29th February. In March records of 20-38 on Thornley Lane, Rowlands Gill/Lockhaugh on 1st - 3rd but no sign on 5th. 10 reported at Shibdon Pond on 10th. 22 flew over both Winlaton and Shibdon on 27th.
5 were over Oakfield Road, Whickham on 30th October and 1 the following day. A large influx in November, 4 at Ryton by the Safeway supermarket on 3rd and 50 in Whickham on the Fellside Estate on 6th, rising to 68 on the 7th. 20-30 remained until the 11th at least. 20 at the top of Blaydon Bank by the cricket club on 8th. 30 at the "Health centre' on 11th when another 14 over Rowlands Gill. 30 birds in the Swalwell area on 12th/13th and 58 counted at Westfield Pasture on 12th. 21-26 present at Rowlands Gill and Blaydon Shopping centre 16th-19th and 50 near Redheugh on 18th. The Blaydon flock rose to 53 birds by 21st and 100 on 22nd.52 were still there on 28th with others at nearby Chainbridge Road. 9 were in Birtley on 28th and 8 or 9 probable birds were seen in Prince Consort road on 27th. Finally 10 birds were at Crawcrook on 30th.
December continued to record excellent counts of birds - 300 Waxwing in the carpark of the Blaydon Shopping centre on the 5th. Later they were all in Cowpen road, by the Chain Bridge Road flyover, and remained there on 6th to 10th and 100-200 still there until the year end. 99 more were seen at Stargate on the 5th. 30 were by the football pitch at Shibdon Pond on 8th and 38 flew west over there on 11th. 43 were in Whickham on 13th, 30 over Felling next day and 80 in West Jackson Street on 16th. 19 were near Scotswood Bridge on 19th when another 15 in Low Fell. 30 more were in Rose Street on 21st. 30 of Shibdon Pond on 27th were probably from Blaydon as were 60 on the reclaimed area there on 30th. Several flew over Clara Vale on 28th.

28 Waxwings at Whickham on 7th, left [photo PWD] and at Rowlands Gill on 17th, right [photo Alan Mould],

and below at Blaydon Shopping centre on 21st [photo KR]

Sand Martin - As usual, the first birds were seen in mid March. 4 at Shibdon on 17th were the first and a maximum of 8 present most days thereafter. 4 noted at Far Pasture NR on 20th, 5 present next day. In April, 30-50+ at Shibdon on 2nd and 3rd was the maximum count but 20+ regular. 4 at Far Pasture on 1st April , 50 at Derwenthaugh on 3rd and 3 at Birtley STW on 4th April. Influx on 18th resulted in 50 at Far Pasture, 30 at Shibdon and 70 at Birtley CTW. During May, reported as common along the Derwent and Tyne valleys with occassional birds being seen elsewhere such as Lamesley Water Meadows. The largest count was 150 at Blaydon Quarry on 2nd May. Small numbers present at Shibdon, LamsleyWater Meadows and the western sand quarries on 1st-22nd August. 2 at Shibdon on 29th and 1 at Stargate on 31st August. 4 were still at Crawcrook Quarry on 10th and 2 still at Shibdon Pond on 12th. 2 at Far Pasture Nr on 19th.

House Martin - The first of the year was one noted in the Derwent valley on 3rd April, the first in the county by 7 days. Occasional records of this bird by the caravan site but it was not until the 18th April when more appeared with singles at Far Pasture and Shibdon and 10 at Birtley CTW. Regular in their usual haunts throughout the borough throughout all of May. The largest count was only 11 in Saltwell Park on 20th. Still good numbers throughout the borough by the 26th September, with young in nests at several places and counts of over 60 at Sunniside, Far Pasture NR and Shibdon Pond. Birds stayed late this year with October records including 15 birds at Birtley on 2nd which were apparently still feeding young over the town. A flock of 75 were feeding over the football pitch at Shibdon on 3rd. 4-5 were over Far Pasture NR on 4th were the last.

Common Swallow - 3 at Far Pasture on 1st April, the first of the year, followed by 1 at Shibdon Pond on 3rd April and another seen in the Derwent valley the same day. 2 occasionally at Shibdon on 4th-12th. Single at Far Pasture on 12th-13th. Influx on 18th April, with other hirundines and double figures at Far Pasture , Shibdon and Birtley CTW. They were noted around several breeding sites the same period. In May, regular throughout the borough occupying the usual breeding sites. 20 over Ravensworth Fell on 22nd August. A bird with Swiss ring was trapped at Far Pasture on 21st May. This is possibly the first ever in Britain. No records prior to 2001 but not sure since. Still fair numbers throughout the borough by the 26thSeptember, with young still in nest at Birtley on 23rd. 100 were over Blaydon Burn on the evening of the 10th September. Small south passage over west of borough on 26th/27th.

Dipper - Regular all along the Derwent Walk and on the small exit stream at Watergate Park during January/February. One noted at Blaydon Burn in February was possibly only the 2nd ever record for the site. 20 pairs nesting on Derwent in Gateshead (about 16km long), plus at least 2 unpaired males. 2 of the nests 120m apart. A nest with a second brood one week old on 26th May at Derwenthaugh and a second clutch at Chopwell Wood same date. One by the bridge at Swalwell roundabout had a red ring on one leg and blue and white on the other on 2nd July. 2 Dipper probably roosting in Wylam Bridge in an old Dipper nest, from this year in Wylam Bridge on 6th July. 1- 2 regularly on the River Derwent by the weir in the country park in September/October. 1 on the River Derwent at Swalwell on 1st. November. Two on the river Team at Riding Lane on 4th. 1-2 regulatr in the Derwent CP until the year end.

.

A pair of Dippers on the Derwent [Photo: Alan Mould]

Skylark - 20 were on Ravensworth Fell on 19th September.

Grey Wagtail - Regular in the Derwent valley and one at Shibdon Pond on 18th January. Four on Derwent Walk on 10th April. One at Birtley CTW on 18th April. One at Shibdon Pond on 26th May. Five juveniles with four adults on 2nd July along the River Derwent by Derwenthaugh Park. One at Watergate Park on 21st.

Grey Wagtail at Watergate Park Lake on 21st [Chris and Scott Swinhoe]

Yellow Wagtail - Singles noted at Birtley STW on 11th and 18th April. The first bird was the first of the year reported in the county.

Pied Wagtail - 1 to 5 noted at several sites.

White Wagtail - One at Birtley CTW on 18th April was the first of the year

Meadow Pipit - A large count of 150+ was made at Stella on 10th.

Tree Pipit - The first of the year were two at Chopwell Woods on 16th April, one still singing in heavy rain on 18th. One still present there on 3rd May.

Common Wren - The first juveniles of the year on the CES plot at Far Pasture were trapped on the 6th June..

Dunnock - No juveniles trapped on the CES plot at Far Pasture on the 6th June, in what is continuing to be a poor series of years for the species.

Robin - Results so far from the CES at Far Pasture - 8 juvs- it is starting out a good year for them.

Blackbird - Small number in the borough but up to 19 feeding in a garden at Ryton during January with other thrush species. A notable increase in numbers at both Westfield Pasture and Shibdon Pond on 17th Septemberr, with 21 still at the former on 30th September. Still very good numbers at Shibdon Pond feeding on the abundant berry crop at the start of October and at Stella on 9th.

Fieldfare - Small numbers in the borough in the early part of the year except for 200 reported at Sunniside on 7th January. 17 passed through Clara Vale on 1st April followed by 22 on Ravensworth Fell on the 5th April. 10 over Burdon Moor on 11th April. 56 on Ravensworth Fell on 12th and finally 20 were at Reely Mires on 13th April.
The first of the autumn was a flock flying west over Clara Vale on 9th October. Many flocks were noted flying over Burdon Moor on 24th and over Clara Vale on 26th and 50 over Shibdon Pond on 28th. Small flocks flying west at several sites on 31st. During November, 82 on Ravensworth Fell on 7th was the largest count, but 'many' in the Clara Vale area on 16th. 30+ still on Ravensworth Fell on 28th.December counts included one found dead at Barlow Fell on 2nd. 150 mixed Redwing/Fieldfare at Clara Vale on 29th.

Redwing - Only small numbers during January to March and the last were a single that passed through Clara Vale on 1st and 1 on Ravensworth Fell on 12th April.
The first birds of the autumn occured in October. One on the reserve at Shibdon on 2nd was the first of the winter and 3 were in neaby Blaydon cemetery later in the day. Two were noted at Westfield Pasture on 8th and Clara on 10th A small flock over Birtley also on the 8th. Many over Clara Vale on 26th and small numbers throughout the borough late in the month. Over 100 were at Shibdon on 29th. In Novermber, 60+ at Shibdon Pond on 1st, with still 35 there on 14th and 25 on 21st. Small flocks noted throughout the borough on 7th and 28th. December counts included 20+ at Shibdon Pond on 5th, and 50 there on 11th. They are roosting in the Holly trees in the adjacent Clinic.150 mixed Redwing/Fieldfare at Clara Vale on 29th.

Song Thrush- Singing from several site in January. A notable increase in numbers at both Westfield Pasture and Shibdon Pond on 17th September, with 15 still at the former on 30th September. Like Blackbird, very good numbers at Shibdon Pond feeding on the abundant berry crop at the start of October.

Mistle Thrush - A flock of 16 counted at Shibdon Pond on 12th September and 15 there on 1st October was the only count of note

Whinchat - One at Stella on 11th September was the only record of the year.

Stonechat - 1 at Byermoor and a female at Derwenthaugh both on the 29th February. 1 at Watergate on 18th March and 1 female at Far Pasture on 21st. A juvenilile was seen at Burdon Moor on 8th August but was never seen again. Six birds were seen at Burdon Moor on 24th October and though only one seen next day, 4 were there on 26th and 2 still present on 7th November and remained until the new year at least..

Wheatear - 1 at Watergate on 18th March was just one day behind the first birds appearing in the county and was the first of the year inland. It was closely followed by 3 at Stella on 20th and one at Burdon Moor on 21st. One at Stella again on 2nd - 11th April, and 2 on 9th and 16th and 4 on 17th. A pair were still present on 20th - 25th April. Other records were 5 (mmmff) at Burdon Moor on 11th April, one at Birtley CTW on 18th and a pair were on Barlow Fell on 24th April. One still at Stella on 1st May and still 2-3 at Burdon Moor on 1st-9th May.
Autumn passage constisted of one seen at Crawcrook Quarry on 15th August and four that were on Ravensworth Fell on 19th September.

Redstart - One noted in a garden at Wrekenton on 16th April was the first recorded in the county this year..

Common Whitethroat - One at the Heather Fields, Winlaton on the 20th April was the first of the spring, followed the next day by one at Shibdon Pond which was still present on 23rd- 24th. It was still at Shibdon Pond on 1st-2nd May and a singing bird was at Burdon Moor on 2nd, 3 were by the road at Far Pasture NR on 3rd May. Regular throughout subsequently. Noticable increase on 9th May. The Far Pasture CES study is showing that this seems to be a good year for the species. Appears to be having a very good breeding season, throughout the borough, as far east as Saltmeadows. 1 still singing there on 18th July. One in the Sea Buckthorn by the River Tyne at Costco on 15th August. Noted at Shibdon, Ravensworth Fell and Burdon Moor on 22nd, Coalburns Plantation on 30th and Stargate and Far Pasture NR on 31st. One noted at Burdon Moor on 5th September. A late bird was still at Shibdon Pond on 30th September.

Lesser Whitethroat - A singing bird on the evening of 24th April at Shibdon Pond was the first of the year for Gateshead and the County. One singing most of the day at Stargate on 1st May was the nest recorded in the borough. Singles were then heard on 4th May at Path Head Quarry, at Storey Lane and at the Swalwell visitor centre and another sang in a garden in Oakfield Road, Whickham on 7th May. One at Lamesley on 9th May. Others noted on 23rd May at Clara Vale(1), Woodside(1) and Ryton Willows(2). One still at Stargate on 6th June and 2 at Westfield Pasture on 12th. August.

Blackcap - One on the Gateshead side of the Stanley Burn on 4th April was the first of the year. 1-2 noted at both Clara Vale and Ryton on 8th April and regular throughout the borough by the 9th. The Far Pasture CES study is showing that this seems to be a good year for the species. The 12th adult Blackcap of the year caught at Far Pasture (400% up on last year). Still good numbers around generally throughout the borough and breeding as far east as Saltwell Park. A good number of fledglings had been noted by the months end. A brood of fledged young noted at Shibdon on 18th July. One seen at Pathhead Quarry on 25th July. In August, 3+ at Shibdon on 22nd. 1-2 at Coalburns Plantation on 30th and one was seen at Stargate and 2 at Far Pasture NR on 31st. 2+ noted at Westfield Pasture on 2nd September. One in Low Pasture area on morning of 7th. and another at Far Pasture NR on 19th. 4 at Westfield Pasture on 30th. 1-2 still on the reserve at Shibdon on 2nd October and a male still at Clara Vale LNR on 7th. Another was at Westfield Pasture the same day. A female at Clara Vale feeding station on 16th December.

Garden Warbler - The first of the year for Gateshead and the County was one reported at Shibdon on 20th April. One singing in the hedgerow at Stella on 2nd May and was still singing 2 weeks later. One seen singing from bush at Blaydon Burn on 4th May. This is the third consecutive summer that this bird has held territory here. Influx on 9th with singing birds at Ravenswoth Fell (1-2), Shibdon Pond (3), Lintzford and Far Pasture NR. One was singing at Reely Mires on 16th. The Far Pasture CES study is showing that this seems to be a good year for the species. One at Stargate on 6th June. It looks like a very good breeding season for this species. A brood of fledged young noted at Shibdon on 18th July. Two seen at Pathhead Quarry on 25th July. In August, 4+ at Shibdon on 22nd included at least one juvenile. 1-2 at Coalburns Plantation on 30th and 2 were seen at Stargate on 31st. 1 seen at Westfield Pasture on 2nd September.

Grasshopper Warbler - 1 singing first thing on waste ground behind football pitch at Shibdon Pond on 17th April and again on 18th, 20th and 23rd. This was the 2nd earliest bird in the county this year. The next record was when good views of one reeling from a bush in the field opposite the car park at Far Pasture on 23rd April. A third singing bird at Burdon Moor on 25th April. One contined to reel at Far Pasture NR on 1st - 7th May in the field opposite the car-park. A female was caught at the same site as the male sang on 3rd. The male, originally ringed in May 2003 was also trapped. It has come back to the same site - not that unusual, but not many are ringed and is the first between year retrap for the species in Gateshead. Both the male and female at Far Pasture were trapped again on the 6th June. 2 were singing at Shibdon Pond on 11th-13th May. 1 reeling by the playing fields at Shibdon Pond on 7th July and a ringed bird was seen on 13th July, feeding 3 young nearby. One still singing and seen well at Far Pasture on 15th. 2 reeling at Shibdon Pond on 18th July. One still inging behind the baths at Shibdon Pond on 7th Augustand one at Far Pasture NR on 28th.

Sedge Warbler - 2 at Shibdon Pond and 1 at Stargate Quarry on 2nd May were the first of the year but these were late as birds had been records at 4+ sites in teh county during April. At least one was still singing at Shibdon on 3rd May. An influx on 9th May here with at least 8 singing. One singing in field of oilseed rape on Barlow Fell on 16th May was the only record away from Shibdon. Only two birds were counted on 23rd May and only 3 at Shibdon on 3rd -6th June and 2 still singing at Shibdon Pond on 18th July.

Reed Warbler - 1 at Shibdon Pond on 9th was the first and a second singing bird joined it on 16th May. The two birds were still present on 23rd May to 3rd June and 3 on 20th June. One still singing on 27th. One seen and another heard at Shibdon Pond on 1st July. An adult carrying food and feeding probable fledged young at Shibdon on the late date of 22nd August. A bird was seen and heard in the phragmites bed at Shibdon Pond on 1st October by 2 seperate observers

[Icterine Warbler - a possible was heard singing on 8th June at Westfield Pasture and perhaps again on 20th]

Chiffchaff - 1 feeding on fat balls at Pet Warehouse, Blaydon on 31st January. The first summer visitors occurred in March when 2 at Shibdon and 1 at Watergate on 18th. Up to 7 daily at Shibdon after the first record and 1-4 noted at Blaydon Station, Clara Vale and Far Pasture NR before the month end. 5 to 7 present on the reserve at Shibdon 1st - 17th April. 1 at Far Pasture on 1st April. Good number along the Tyne by 8th and regular throughout the borough on the 9th. 17 singing birds along Derwent Walk on 13th April and 6 at Shibdon four days later. Regular throughout the borough occupying the usual breeding sites throughout May and in usual numbers and in more unusual sites such as Lamesley and Dunston Hill. The first juveniles of the year on the CES plot at Far Pasture were trapped on the 6th June. It looks like a very good breeding season for this species. A bird giving an unusual song from the willows/alders where the board walk starts at Shibdon Pond on 1st July. In between bouts of preening it sang an odd tri-syllabic song. 1-2 family groups were at Shibdon on 22nd August and 1-2 at Coalburns Plantation, Shibdon (still singing on 31st), Stargate and Far Paasture at the end of the month. 2+ noted at Westfield Pasture on 2nd September. One was singing at Costco on the river Tyne on 9th. At least 3 juveniles in the Clinic Car-park at Shibon on 12th when others were at the back of the reserve. One on 11th at Far Pasture. A single at Shibdon Pond and 3+ at Far Pasture NR both on 19th September. another at Clara Vale on 26th September when at least 2 still singing in the Derwent valley and another the next day.There were at least seven still at Westfield Pasture on 30th. 1-2 still on the reserve at Shibdon on 2nd October and 3-4 at Far Pasture NR on 4th. A singing bird still at Clara Vale LNR on 7th.

Willow Warbler - The first of the year for Gateshead and the County was one at Swalwell Visitor Centre on 3rd April. This was followed by two at Blaydon tennis club on 4th and one at Shibdon on 7th. Fair numbers noted Clara Vale - Ryton - Shibdon on next day and seen throughout the borough by the 9th. One singing in more unusual habitat at Timber beach on 11th April. Like Chiffchaff, regular throughout the borough occupying the usual breeding sites throughout May in usual numbers. A brood of fledged young noted at Shibdon on 18th July. 1 still singing at Timber beach on 1st August. One in the Sea Buckthorn by the River Tyne at Costco on 15th. 2+ family parties at Shibdon on 22nd, One noted at Fa Pasture on 31st. [One was reported at Shibdon Pond on 21st October but this seems exceptionally late]

Wood Warbler - One singing at Strother Hills on 10th May was the first of the year.

Goldcrest - Noted at several sites including , the largest numbers being at Ryton Willows and Chopwell Woods in January. One in trees by the main hide at Shibdon on 19th September.1 at Far Pasture NR on 4th October and 4+ at Shibdon Pond on 31st did not reflect the large numbers at the coast. 3-4 in a tit flock at Shibdon on 7th Novemberand a single in a small bush on the riverbank at Timber Beach on 14th. 10 at Far Pasture NR on 4nd December when a few in a flock of Goldcrest at Birtley.

Spotted Flycatcher - A bird reported on 9th May on Ravensorth Fell but not seen again until the 26th-29th when two present. Pair of Spotted Flycatcher by the Stone bridge at Lintzford on 23rd June. Another at the bottom of the stairs at Paddock Hill on 25th June. A single was observed at the start of the path from Derwenthaugh Park to Paddock Hill Wood on 2nd July. One trapped and another seen in the Ravensworth Estate during July. One at Clara Vale on 16th August. Six birds, probably a family party were at Coalburns Plantation on 30th August.1 seen at Westfield Pasture on 2nd September was the first record for this site. Another was at Derwent Walk Country Park on the 10th.

Marsh Tit - 1 occasionally being seen at Thornley throughout January. 1 noted in a garden at Axwell on 13th March. One bird again regular at Thornley Woodland centre from 4th December

Willow Tit - Noted at 5 sites in January including singles at Clara Vale and at Thornley Feeding Station on 18th January and on a fat feeder along Derwent Walk by Far Pasture on 22nd January. Noted in February at Clara Vale, Far Pasture, Lockhaugh Farm, Thornley Feeding Station, Chopwell Wood and Victoria Garesfield. 2 near Clara Vale on 8th April and 1 at Far Pasture NR on 25th April. There were occassional sighting during May at Far Pasture NR. One-two at Stargate regular throughout August, when tehy were also noted at Shibdon Pond on 6th and 21st, Maryside Hill on 12th , Burdon Moor on 22nd and Far PAsture NR on 31st August. During September, 3 were at Westfield Pasture on 3rd and singles at Stargate Quarry on 9th, Far Pasture NR on 11th and another at Blaydon Burn on 15th-23rd. One noted at Pathhead Quarry on 19th. and another at Clara Vale on 26th and remained throughout October and November. 1 at Lamesley Water Meadows on 7th December and 2 at Westfield Pasture on 14th..

Coal Tit - Noted at several sites including the largest numbers being at Clara Vale and Blaydon in January.

Blue Tit - Noted at 10+ sites with a maximum count of 26 in January. Small numbers were reported from Festival Park. The first juveniles of the year on the CES plot at Far Pasture were trapped on the 6th June.

Great Tit - Noted at several sites with a maximum count of 21 at Clara Vale pit yard on 27th January.

Long-tailed Tit - Small numbers noted throughout the borough. Two at Shibdon Pond on 22nd August and 4 on 31st when 6 at Stargate. Small groups noted at Shibdon and Far Pasture during September and a number of records of 1-3 birds throughout the borough. 8 at Shibdon Pond remained by the hide from 26th September to 31st October. 20 at Lamesley Water Meadows and a similar number at Shibdon on 7th. 20-30 at Goodshields Haugh on 28th. Small numbers during the month at Birtley and Victoria Garesfield. A flock of 25 at the Komatsu Factory on 2nd December.

Nuthatch - Seen at 5 sites in January and 1-4 present all year at Thornley woodland centre. 1 at Clara Vale on 8th April. One at Stella on the 17th April was the 1st record for the site. A birds was calling at Dunston Hill on 15th June and one bird, probably a juvenile, was seen at Blaydon Burn on 27th June. This may be only the second record for Blaydon Burn. The first was in April this year. It seems the species may have recently colonised the Burn from the grounds of Beech House across the road where there is definitely at least one pair. A more unusual record was one in the scrub at Shibdon Pond on 22nd. One at Beech House, again on 19th September. 1 was in Blaydon cemetery on 2nd October. 1 trapped and rung at Clara Vale feeding station on 27th December

The Nuthatch trapped at Clara Vale on 27th..

Tree-creeper - Singles at Ryton Willows in January and near at Ryton on 8th April and 1- 2 regular at Thornley/along Derwent Walk. Three were seen at Blaydon Burn on 22nd August and one at Far Pasture on 31st. 1 was in Blaydon cemetery on 2nd October.

[Red-backed Shrike - a possible bird seen at Watergate on 23rd July but seen briefly and could not be refound]

[Great Grey Shrike - One reported in the scrub at Shibdon Pond on 26th November]

Jay - 6 at Ryton Willows on 30th January was the largest count during the year but smaller numbers at many other sites including all along the Derwent valley and at Ryton GC.

Magpie - 1-13 counted at many sites.

Jackdaw - 80 near Far Pasture on 3rd January and 50-80 regular in January at Winlaton were the largest counts.

Rook - 92 counted in the Ryton area on 30th January was the largest count but smaller numbers at many other sites.

Carrion Crow - 1-14 counted at several sites.

Common Starling - Maximum counts were 150 at Winlaton on 8th and 130 at Blaydon on 13th January. 600 at Burdon Moor on 18th March

House Sparrow - Largest counts were in Janauary with 19 at Blaydon onn 18th, 12 at Clara Vale pit yard on 27th and 2 at Ryton Willows on 30th. 8 were in Saltwell Park in July.

Tree Sparrow - 7 + at Ryton on 18th January. Four at Westfield Lane, Clara Vale on 11-12th April. A single was seen feeding on back lawn in Rowlands Gill on 28th -29th April. A bird continued to visit the garden in Rowlands Gill 1st - 3rd May and was observed gathering grass cuttings, so presumably nesting close by. Two birds still present at Clara Vale on 11th May. The bird reported at start of the month at Rowlands Gill was seen regularly during the month, though visits always brief. Towards the end of the month it was noticed to be coming to the feeders and flying off with food at the rate of sometimes 4 times a minute. The nest was discovered in the roof of a house just opposite, less than 60 yards away. On 24th May two birds were seen emerging from the hole and the feeding frenzy suggests that successful breeding has taken place. One burd continued to visit the garden throughout June. Breeding also confirmed at Clara Vale on 26th May and in the Kibblesworth study area - moderate to good so far with 6 broods ringed (26 pulli) & 5 more with eggs. In the High Spen area - Tree Sparrows took immediately to 5 of 6 boxes erected in Feb 2004 (12 pulli & 2 with eggs) with the other box containing Blue Tits. A single was still visiting a garden at Rowlands Gill on 2nd July. 1 at Coalburns Plantation on 30th. August. One in Clara Vale village on 16th September. 1-2 regular at the feeding station at Clara Vale LNR during October. 3 on Ravenworth Fell on 31st October. During November, 10 along Riding Lane on 4th. 2 tree sparrows in the feeding station on 26th, with 1 regular for a week previous. 3 were present most of December at Clara Vale with one being trapped and ringed there on 12th. Five birds were present on 25th-27th. One started to visdit a garden in Rowlands Gill in December, visiting daily again after intermittent sightings during the late summer/autumn period.

Tree Sparrow at Clara Vale in October [Photo: G. Pollinger] above

and this bird (below) started to regularly visit a garden in Rowlands Gill from 1st December [Photo:Alan Mould]

Brambling - A female was seen regularly at the feeding station at Thornley in January. A bird was seen near Springwell in March when 1-2 males were present at the feeding station at Clara Vale from 30th March to 11th April with five birds, (1 male, 4 female) there on 8th.
The first of the autumn was one at Stella on 9th, followed by 3 at Shibdon on 29th. 2 at Thornley woodland centre on 23rd December and one feeding on the ground in Blaydon cemetery the next day.

One of the male Bramblings with a female Chaffinch at Clara Vale [Photo: G. Pollinger]

Common Crossbill - 2 males reported at Victoria Garesfield GC on 18th March. 2 flew from Lockhaugh into Gibside on 23rd June

Linnet - 1- 2 noted at several sites including Lamesley on 23rd January. 100 present on Long Hill, Sunniside on 30th August.. The maximum counts were during Sepember was 30 in the Derwent valley on 5th and 120 on Ravensworth Fell on 19th September.

Goldfinch - appeared to have ahad a very goog breeding season. A flock of 60+ was noted at Ravensworth Fell on 22nd August.

Greenfinch - A flock of 150 was noted at Westfield Pasture on 12th August and 75 at Sunniside Park on 22nd August were the highest counts.

Bullfinch - Small numbers seen throughout the borough. 5 at Victoria Garesfield on 21st November may have been of the northern subspecies.Maximum count was 6 along the Derwent Walk on 18th December.

Siskin - 100 in Paddock Hill Wood on 7th January. 2 at Shibdon Pond on 29th February. A few regular coming to feeders in Rowlands Gill, one bird being taken by a Sparrow-hawk. Noted at Far Pasture on 21st March. 1 at Clara Vale on 8th April.
6 at Shibdon Pond on 24th October. 2 at Shibdon Pond on 7th November and a large flock of 110 at Chopwell on 21st.

Lesser Redpoll - Small flocks noted at Shibdon in January/March, Path Head Quarry in January and Watergate during March. 1 at Clara Vale on 8th April and 11 there on 15th. 33 were counted at Crawcrook Quarry on 16th April. 9 were counted at Shibdon Pond on 22nd August and 30 there on 31st October. 7 at Shibdon Pond on 7th November and a flock of 16 were therePond on 11th December.

[Corn Bunting - 1 was heard opposite Tanfield Railway carpark at Burdon Moor on 9th June by one observer but could not be relocated at this very frequently checked site]

Yellow Bunting - 60 in the Blaydon area on 30th January and 200 at Ryton Haugh on 4th April were the largest counts. up to 40 at the feeding station at Clara Vale in late December with several being trapped and rung.

One of the Yellow Buntings trapped at Clara Vale.

Reed Bunting - 2 at Timber beach on 2nd February may be the first for the site and small numbers noted at several other sites including Lamesley.