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Witcombe Reservoirs (31 March 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

Seen around the reservoirs this morning were c.40 Swallows, 20 Sand Martins and 3 House Martins, all presumably knocked down by the cold weather.

Cleeve Hill (30 March 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

No spring migrants, although there was a flock of 50 Fieldfares at Postlip which flew off high to the east.

Coombe Hill and Ashleworth (30 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The Severn level is slightly higher following recent rain, which means that the ditch levels in the meadows are a little bit higher, but with no additional flooding.

At Coombe Hill at first light there were 11 Curlews, most of which must have been passing migrants that had roosted, since they were harried by one of the residents. About eight of them flew off to the north pretty early on. It looks as though there are two pairs holding territory. Ten Shelducks including two (maybe three) established pairs, the rest lekking noisily. One Brent Goose, one Little Ringed Plover, one Green Sandpiper and a pair of Garganey on the Long Pool, which must have paired up on the wintering grounds. Group of 30 Swallows and Sand Martins, clearly migrants, arrived mid-morning.

At Ashleworth, there were still 90 Wigeon, 70 Teal and 10 Shoveler; the Great White Egret has moved on to pastures new near Slimbridge. All three full boards were removed from the sluice, which will allow the water to flow out in spring, as provided in the management plan, thus creating optimum conditions for breeding waders and hay meadow vegetation.

Chesterton, Cirencester (28 March 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A pair of Small Tortoiseshells and a Peacock butterfly flew through the garden this afternoon. Also a cuckoo bee was seen following a Buff-tailed Bumblebee all round the garden for some time, never more than 30cm behind the latter’s erratic flight path. Yesterday a Chiffchaff passed through the trees in the neighbour’s garden but was not heard today.

Stratton (28 March 2010, contributed by Ken Cservenka)

At about 4.00pm today a Red Kite was circling overhead. In my garden here, I have had between 6 and 12 Yellowhammers throughout March visiting the ground beneath my feeders and the bushes nearby. A cock Pheasant has also been a regular visitor.

Severn Vale (27 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

Coombe Hill was again rather quiet: the Brent Goose was still there together with 15 Shelducks (the two established pairs, plus six males lekking with two females and two immatures); only two Lapwings, both males but with no display, probably off duty males from the arable nearby; three Little Egrets; a very hesitant Willow Warbler trying to sing; Chiffchaffs all over the place with at least four singing; one Green Sandpiper. A fox was sat out in the open, marking his territory and trying to get among the flock of 10 non-breeding Canadas but they were far too smart for him.

At Ashleworth the Great White Egret was still present.

At Staunton, the Golden Plover had of course moved on.

Someone had left a telescope tripod in the road hide at Ashleworth and the owner should contact 01452.830608

Staunton (27 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

A surprising observation, but all the more pleasurable for that. I went to check on a field where Lapwing appear to be nesting at Staunton, near Ashleworth and sure enough, three Lapwings were displaying actively. All of a sudden there were liquid calls overhead and a party of Golden Plover, clearly migrants, circled the field, eventually landing. There were 27 of them, several in summer plumage, others moulting into summer. The Lapwings didn’t think much of the intrusion and tried to chase them off, but they crouched down close to the soil, only standing up when the Lapwings got bored of harassing them. Why did they pick this field? Because there were Lapwings present? Or do they have traditional stopping fields on the way north? They often seem to appear on the same field each spring.

Lechlade (24 March 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A single Swallow was circling the church spire this morning. Also nests of the following were noted in a garden near the church: Collared Dove (almost fledged young), Woodpigeon (eggs), Blackbird (eggs).

Gloucester (23 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

In Cheltenham Road, a Blackcap was singing well at first light.

Coombe Hill and Ashleworth (23 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

Coombe Hill was still quite although there were some signs of migration. There were no roosting waders, but when the early morning mist rose, one Little Ringed Plover came through, calling loudly and flew north without landing, followed soon after by two others, not calling but also going straight on to the north. Shortly afterwards, one Swallow and seven Sand Martins, all going straight on to the north. All seen between 07.30 and 08.15am, so it is worth getting there early, but probably worth sitting in the hide all day to see what happens!

Otherwise 2 Mute Swans and two or three pairs of Canada Geese, all looking territorial; two pairs of Shelduck plus three hangers-on, the Brent Goose still (is it a wild bird or feral?) and the Bar-headed Goose is back; also 4 Wigeon, 15 Shoveler, 20 Teal, 3 Little Egrets, no Lapwings on the reserve, but seven displaying on arable just outside; two Curlew displaying; Saturday’s three Redshanks seemed to have moved on. Still 2 Green Sandpipers on the Long Pool. Three Chiffchaffs singing.

The Great White Egret was still at Ashleworth. It seems to have been feeding on toads, with a shivering movement of the legs like a Little Egret.

Walmore (22 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

All was pretty quiet in wet and windy conditions: about four pairs of displaying Lapwings, 12 Snipe (no sign of drumming), no Redshanks, 15 Teal, 20 Meadow Pipits. A solitary Chiffchaff gave a brief burst of song.

Chapman’s Cross, Sapperton (21 March 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A flock of approx. 200 Golden Plovers flying around a field near the crossroads at about 5.00pm.

Overley Wood, Cirencester (21 March 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

2 Brimstone butterflies were seen flying through the wood during a field meeting. Wood ants were very active in the sunshine and there were clusters of hibernating Orange Ladybirds on Hazel and Oak branches.

Overley Wood, Daglingworth Field Meeting (21 March 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

The day before this meeting it had rained solidly and the prospects were not good but fifteen members met on the roadside by Overley Wood above Daglingworth in full sunshine. This brought out some Brimstone and Peacock butterflies and a Comma looking for early spring flowers. Three species of ladybird were seen including the Orange Ladybird, usually in clusters on oak and hazel twigs. This species was quite rare but in recent years it has expanded its range.

Overhead, a Buzzard was being harassed by a Raven, while other birds were heard as they flew above the trees such as three Skylarks and some Siskins. In the trees were Marsh, Coal, Long-tailed, Blue and Great Tits accompanied by an occasional Treecreeper and Nuthatch. In all we recorded twenty-eight bird species. Mammals were in evidence – earthworks by Moles on the woodland floor; Fallow Deer droppings everywhere; a Hare was put up and ran off deeper into the woods; and part of an old badger skeleton, including the skull, was found in the thorn scrub which lead to a demonstration of the permanently-hinged lower jaw. Grey Squirrels had been eating hazel nuts on some old cut tree stumps and in two cases they had also eaten the large ground beetle Carabus problematicus, leaving the wing cases and thorax. This beetle is approximately 30mm long, dull black in general colour with an iridescent purple edge to the thorax and wing cases.

Close study was made of a rare springtail which looks like an orange 2mm long Michelin Man with long hairs (Monobella grassei) and its much commoner cousin that looks like a grey version of the same thing (Neanura muscorum). The long life (11 years) of the Pill Millipede (Glomeris marginatus) was mentioned. The Wood Ants were out in the sunshine warming up in preparation for rebuilding their nests after the winter ravages, and renewing their trails across the woodland floor in search of food to keep these huge communities alive. Some were even sitting on sun-warmed scrap black plastic soaking up the heat. The White-lipped and Brown-lipped snails were both found and there was a discussion about the differing ground colours and number of bands within each species and how this related to where they lived in different habitats.

Spring flowers such as Primrose and Ground Ivy were beginning to open in the warm weather and Wild Arum, Bluebells and Dog’s Mercury were just starting to push their leaves through the leaf litter. Some Scarlet Elf Cup fungi were seen growing among the mosses on the ground beneath the thorn scrub and several other species were seen during the walk. Thirty-one lichen species were recorded from the various tree species. We also had an introduction to reading a woodland and being able to determine its history – in this case it appeared to be lapsed coppice with standards with some mature conifer planting.

I would like to thank Mark Leebrecht, who manages this part of Earl Bathurst’s woodland, for permission to allow the group to meet in Overley Wood, and to all those who have contributed records which will be forwarded to Mark.

North Cerney (20 March 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

Two Little Egrets were once again by the River Churn – one north and one south of the village.

Coombe Hill and Ashleworth (20 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

It was quiet at Coombe Hill today, although there were signs of the breeding season starting. The Brent Goose was still there, a pair of Canadas mating on the scrapes, four Greylags including one with a white ring inscribed FT6, 2 pairs of Shelducks, 2 Wigeon, 20 Teal, 2 immature Cormorants fishing, 2 Little Egrets, 1 Sparrowhawk, no Lapwings, 2 Curlews bubbling, 3 Redshanks in full summer plumage, 2 Green Sandpipers. Skylarks and Reed Buntings singing lustily.

At Ashleworth the Great White Egret still showing well.

Coombe Hill (19 March 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

Seen or heard from the canal bank: male Reed Bunting, Great Spotted Woodpecker, a single Fieldfare and a Peacock butterfly. Seen from the Grundon Hide in the morning: 2 Little Egrets, a Mute Swan, 4 Teal, the Brent Goose, a Brown Hare and a Sand Martin which by through at 11.00am.

Ashleworth Ham (19 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The Great White Egret, which has been present for a couple of days, is a much travelled bird – ringed as nestling at Besné (Loire Atlantique, France) on 6 May 2009, metal ring CA 69229.
It has been seen on 25 September 2009 at Brockholes Wetland LWT, Lancashire
from 8 – 13 November 2009 and from 13 – 28 December 2009 at Crossens Outer Marsh, Lancashire
on 29 December 2009 and 8 January 2010 at Churchtown Moss, Lancashire
on 1 January and 20 January 2010 at Marshside RSPB, Lancashire
from 22 – 23 January 2010 at Castleton Court, Fortran Road, St Mellons, Cardiff
and at Ashleworth Ham from 17 – 19 March.

New Fancy View (14 March 2010, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Several Adders were seen in the area basking in the warm sunshine. One of them is shown below in Andy’s photo.

Cheltenham (14 March 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

A Red Admiral was seen briefly flying in Swindon Lane today.

Cheltenham (13 March 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

The first Frog spawn of the year was in my garden pond this morning. By comparison, in 2009 the first was noted on 24 February.

Port Ham and Castlemeads (11 March 2010, contributed by Andy Jayne)

In the Port Ham/Castlemeads area today there were at least 85 Teal, three Shoveler, a Little Grebe, a male Sparrowhawk, a Water Rail, five Snipe, three Green Sandpipers, two Cetti’s Warblers, 40+ Goldfinch and ten Lesser Redpolls.

Frampton Court (9 March 2010, contributed by Andy Jayne)

The female Ring-necked Duck was sen again on the Court Pool this afternoon.

Sudmeadow area (6 March 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

12 Teal on the marsh and either another or the same Woodcock from was flushed from inside the osier bed at 10.55am.

Sudmeadow area (5 March 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

There were c.7000 Starlings at the Landfill Site, 1 Chiffchaff at Lower Parting, 1 Woodcock and 4 Common Snipe in Sudmeadow marsh and 10 Meadow Pipits at Sudmeadow.

Ashleworth (3 March 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown )

All rather quiet, as though the bulk of the winter birds has left and the passage migrants and summer visitors have yet to arrive. There has been a slight rise in the water level as a result of the big bores of the last few days.

The three adult Whooper Swans had roosted on floodwater at Hasfield Ham and at 7.20am flew off across the river in the direction of the Leigh Meadows. They were later found there, not in the meadow immediately visible from the hill above the Red Lion, but in one of the fields half way between Wainlodes and the A38. Also seen at Ashleworth were: 4 Shelduck, 100 Wigeon, 200 Teal, 20 Pintail, 10 Shoveler, 8 Tufted Ducks, 30 Lapwings looked like migrants. Only one Snipe was seen despite a careful search. One Curlew was heard in bubbling territorial song with another on Leigh Meadows.

Standish (2 March 2010, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Another sunny day and an even better sign of spring. The first Small Tortoiseshell of the year for me, on Snowdrops on my lawn.

Sudmeadow (1 March 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

A Red Kite flew SE over Llantony Weir at 3.00pm today.

Cheltenham (1 March 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

This tephritid or picture winged fly (Tephritis formosa) was disturbed from a privet hedge in my garden today, where it was presumably over-wintering. The adult fly shown here is approximately 7mm in length. The larvae cause galls in the flowers of Sonchus species.

Standish (1 March 2010, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Signs of Spring today included this Crocus in my lawn being visited by honey bee and a fly species.

Forest of Dean (1 March 2010, contributed by Ken Cservenka)

At New Fancy View this morning there were 2 Goshawks displaying overhead, also 4 Fallow Deer in the adjoing clear fell area. In the trees below Parkend Church at 12.30pm there was a Hawfinch. Another Hawfinch was seen from New Fancy View in the afternoon with an Adder basking at the side of the path just below the summit of the viewpoint. Also 2 Raven overhead. Nuthatchs appear to have survived the winter unscathed as I saw them at every location I stopped at.

Stratton near Cirencester (1 March 2010, contributed by Ken Cservenka)

There was an early morning count of 6 Yellowhammer today.

Stratton near Cirencester (27 February 2010, contributed by Ken Cservenka)

On my Nyger seed feeder today were a male Siskin and up to 6 Goldfinch. On my Sunflower heart and seed feeders, 8 Greenfinches. On the ground under the feeders and on them, around 30 Chaffinch. On the ground under the feeders and on the overgrown Hawthorn at the end of my garden, 14 Yellowhammers and a female Reed Bunting. I also have regular visits from a cock Pheasant. The Jackdaws have learnt how to hang on to the thin perches of my seed feeders and the wire cage of my fat ball feeder and while flapping their wings they are managing to feed. During the worst of the snow, a Rook also learnt this method of feeding. The Wood Pigeons are now fearless and I have around 12 feeding regularly under the seed feeders.

Coombe Hill (26 February 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

Early afternoon there were 2 Snipe by the canal near the start of the board walk and from the Grundon Hide there were 2 Mute Swans, the Brent Goose again, 8 Shelduck, 2 Grey Herons, a Little Egret and just 4 Lapwing. A Curlew was heard calling from the area.

In the Mistletoe at the Wharf end there were 2 mines of the BAP species micro-moth, Celypha woodiana. Compared to previous years these showed only modest development, perhaps reflecting the cold weather.

Cirencester (24 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

Spring must have arrived early! The Rooks have been collecting sticks for some time now and then there was the House Sparrow in Woodmancote ten days ago. Now the male Robin, which has been in my garden through the winter as I rebuild it, has teamed up with a female who is now taking nesting material into some ivy on my next-door neighbour’s fence. As I will be churning the soil around for the next few weeks, they could be on to a good thing. However, if they are successful, they will miss the BTO atlas breeding season surveys and have to do it all over again!

Stratton near Cirencester (22 February 2010, contributed by Ken Cservenka)

Garden sightings today included 14 Yellowhammers and a male Brambling.

Coates (20 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A friend of mine, John Brook, happened to look out of his kitchen window yesterday and saw this Sparrowhawk (see picture below) arrive on his garden fence and spread its feathers to warm itself in the afternoon sun.

Fossebridge (19 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

Three Hares crouching in a cereal field near Stowell Park eating the young green shoots as the snow was melting.

Deerhurst (16 February 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

2 male Chaffinches singing at the church this morning and 12 Buzzards over the arable fields next to the lane to the B4213.

Coombe Hill (15 February 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

Compared to last week the Grundon Hide was much quieter early afternoon today. The Brent Goose was present but otherwise just 3 Mute Swans, 1 Grey Heron and 29 Lapwings which were joined by another small flock of 20 with all of them departing to the west some minutes later. 2 Mistle Thrushes in the willows with large clumps of mistletoe next to the canal.

Woodmancote, nr Cirencester (13 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A female House Sparrow was seen collecting nest material (dead grass) and flying off with it.

North Cerney (13 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A Little Egret was on the River Churn again today – is it now a permanent resident?

Netheridge (12 February 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

A Little Egret was in the field just north of the Owl Centre at Netheridge late morning today.

Another Gloucester Starling Roost (12 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

A lonely vigil outside a carwash provided news of another north Gloucester Starling roost, at The Triangle, Longlevens; the car owners had the grace to say that the birds were wonderful to watch in their evening display, but did cause a large bill at the car wash.

Walmore (12 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

At Walmore Common today the water level was low and it was very quiet from 12.00 to 1.15pm. There were no Bewick’s, just 23 Snipe and a few Teal.

Ashleworth Ham (11 February 2010, contributed by Andy Jayne)

The three adult Whooper Swans were present again this afternoon. Nearby on Hasfield Ham there was a Knot, a Dunlin and eight Ruff amongst about 400 Lapwing. The Knot has earlier been at Coombe Hill (see below).

Coombe Hill (11 February 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

With sub-zero temperatures overnight, there was a great reduction in the number of waders present with a maximum of 130 Lapwing in the morning, none of which stayed long on the partly frozen ground. They were however joined by a single Knot. The duck flock was confined to the deeper water to the north of the Grundon Hide. There were also 14 Shelduck from the Grundon Hide, 10 Coot on the Long Pool, a Snipe by the North Meadow bridge and a solitary Curlew.

Gloucester Starling Roosts (10 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

There are currently two roosts in north Gloucester, both in little clumps of firs: one with maybe 5,000 birds is in a line of conifers in Great Western Road just behind the station; local residents told me it’s been there for two weeks. Another roost with some 2,000 birds is in Old Cheltenham Road Longlevens in some thick conifers in a garden. Aerial displays over both sites, with Sparrowhawks in attendance but so far unsuccessful, take place every evening from 4.45 to 5.15pm

Coombe Hill (10 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The water level continues to drop and the hides are easily accessible. The wildlife spectacle continues however, with really good numbers of ducks just in front of the Grundon Hide. There was no sign of the Whoopers or Bewick’s early on, but the Brent Goose was still present. Also 4 Shelducks, 1500+ Wigeon, 500+ Teal, 30 Gadwall, 20 Pintail, 10 Shoveler, 10 Tufted Ducks, 500 Lapwings, 8 Ruff. There was a Green Woodpecker near the canal which is unusual for this area! 2 Whitefronts and a Dunlin also seen by another observer.

Coombe Hill (9 February 2010, contributed by Les Brown and Robert Homan)

The water level at Coombe Hill and at Ashleworth is dropping fast now and the Grundon Hide at Coombe hill easily accessible with wellingtons; bird numbers are holding up well, although the birds are concentrated onto smaller areas of floodwater.

In the morning (LB) there were: 3 Whooper Swans, 15 Bewick’s (which took off and went towards Ashleworth at 09.15am), 1 Dark-bellied Brent Goose, 2800 Wigeon, 420 + Teal, 185 Pintail (the highest count this winter), 570 Lapwing, 2 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 8 Ruff, and 2 Peregrines. Early afternoon (RH) much as above although 10 Bewick’s Swans had returned only to fly west again mid-afternoon, 30 or so Mute Swans, 100+ Greylag Geese, 3 Shelduck, 4 Gadwall and 2 Curlew. There was a great deal of disturbance in the afternoon with distant gun shots, several low flying helicopters and, more naturally, a passing Peregrine. One advantage of this was that it was much easier to see the waders in flight than against the extensive areas of mud, water and grass. The pictures below show a variety of afternoon views of Coombe Hill, including part of the 3000+ flock of ducks (click on the image for a larger view), the tide line from the flood water showing a mass of short grass stems (where from?) and the view from the Wharf end showing the recently shorn south bank of the canal.

Ashelworth (9 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

10 Bewick’s which flew in from Coombe Hill at 09.20am, 375 Canadas, 300 Wigeon (with more not counted on Hasfield Ham), 370 Teal, 28 Pintail, 44 Shoveler and 150 Lapwings.

Severn Hams (7 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Dursley BWPS)

At Coombe Hill at 09.00am at the eastern end of the canal, a group of 38 Whitefronts, flying over high to the south, circled and appeared to be going to land on the floodwater but didn’t. This is the biggest flock here for a very long time. On the floodwater 3 Whoopers, 8 Bewick’s (flew in from the direction of Cobney Meadows and landed on the floodwater), 1 adult Brent Goose, 2 Whitefronts, 2000 Wigeon, 800 Lapwings, 1 Golden Plover, 1 Curlew (heard – the first of the season), 1 Peregrine.

At Ashleworth the water is a bit lower and there were 200+ Canada Geese, 5 Tufted Duck and 1 Pochard.

Coombe Hill (6 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart, Les Brown and Mike King)

Seen today were: 3 Whooper Swans, 2 Whitefronts, 1 Bar-headed Goose, 2000 Wigeon, 600 + Lapwing, 1 Dunlin. Plus at Cobney Meadows at the west end of canal, an increase in the number of Bewick’s Swans which are now up to 19 with 16 adults, including one family of two adults plus three cygnets.

North Cerney (6 February 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

3 Little Egrets were by the River Churn, late morning.

Coombe Hill (5 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Hugh Tollemache)

Coombe Hill was at its winter best today, with signs of an early wader passage. The floodwater is still extensive and the hides are still inaccessible but there were brilliant views from the canal towpath: 3 Whooper Swans, 1 Dark-bellied Brent, at least 2000 Wigeon, 1 Peregrine, 1 Water Rail calling, at least 1000 Lapwings with other associated waders, 5 Golden Plover, 2 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, 2 Black-tailed Godwits.

North Cerney (5 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A Little Egret was on the River Churn in the morning.

Coates (4 February 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A specimen of the bright, metallic blue ground beetle Leistus spinibarbis was found wandering around under a manhole cover before moving off into the surrounding grass.

Witcombe Woods (4 February 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

A male Brambling seen in the woods today.

Severn Hams (3 and 4 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The Severn has dropped sharply in the last few days and the flood water is flowing off the meadows.

At Coombe Hill on 3rd, the hides were still inaccessible, but good views could be obtained from the canal bank: 3 Whooper Swans, 1 White-fronted Goose, 1800 Wigeon and the remarkable figure of 1200 Teal (LB). At the Wainlodes end, most of the flooding has gone, but the remaining water held 15 Bewick’s Swans, a higher figure than that recorded lately: a family of two adults and three cygnets, plus five adults (these ten have been around for some days); but also another pair and a group of three, hence 15 in all. Also on the 3rd a Nuthatch at Apperley (MS).

On 4th, a Merlin hunting in vegetation round the edge of Severn Ham, Tewkesbury (MS).

Cheltenham (3 February 2010, contributed by Robert Homan)

A male Brambling feeding with a handful of Chaffinches in Swindon Lane today.

Llantony Weir (2 February 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

A Little Egret flew south over the weir at about 2.30pm today.

Walmore (2 February 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The floods have almost entirely receded with no surface water left. Consequently, there has been a decrease in birds and today there were no Bewick’s. On a more positive note there were 2 Mute Swans, 1 Shelduck, 150+ Teal in the ditches, 20 Mallard, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Peregrine perched in a line of poplars and about 15 Snipe.

Severn Hams and Guscar (22 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

Walmore at first light: as expected, the 15 adult/yearling Bewick’s; they appeared to be made up of a group of four (probably Widemouth and family) and another of 11, including a very grey yearling. They were there at 7.15am, and the same number was still present at 12.00, when I passed again: no new arrivals, probably because of the drizzle and misty weather which inhibited movement from Slimbridge.

At Guscar Rocks in the gloom, 1 Shelduck, 200 Wigeon, 30 Teal, 300 Dunlin, 50 Lapwings, 15 Redshank, 60 Curlews and 5 Snipe.

Ashleworth and Coombe Hill are both inaccessible. The Severn, though dropping is still high and the access roads are flooded.

Walmore (21 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

Floodwater was a little higher today. During the afternoon there were 27 Bewick’s Swans present at 2.00pm, 25 adults and two yearlings; most were on the water and some way off, so it was difficult to read rings. Most were not ringed but there appeared to be one yellow ring and two white rings, keeping fairly close together; they might well have been the family group of Wylfa, Widemouth and Winny. After much head-bobbing and nervous calling, three flew off at 3.35pm and headed towards Slimbridge; then at 3.40 another nine flew off in the same direction. At 4.00 the remaining 15 also took off, but only went as far as the next field where they landed. Then, surprisingly five new birds (three adults and two cygnets) flew in at 4.20; could these have been the family that have been at Coombe Hill since the beginning of the year; they did not stay long however and left (presumably for Slimbridge) at 5.07 when it was nearly dark. The remaining 15 appeared to be staying to roost at Walmore. Otherwise there were 220 Wigeon, 2 Shelduck, 20 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 5 Shoveler, at least 75 Teal. 15 Canada Geese already there with 33 more flying in from the south at 3.45.

Walmore (20 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The water level is a good deal higher. At dusk there were no Bewick’s present, but at least 1310 Wigeon on the water

Coombe Hill and Walmore (19 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The Severn has risen even more sharply and the Coombe hill car park is under water again.

At Walmore, where flooding was also more extensive, at first light several hundred Wigeon had roosted and flew back towards the estuary in the fog. Still at least 200 Wigeon, 400 Teal and 5 Shoveler left on the water. No Bewick’s roosting

Severn Hams (17 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The Severn is continuing to rise and so local streams cannot discharge and are therefore backing up at Coombe Hill and Ashleworth. The Severn is indeed close to breaking its banks below Haw Bridge, which will cause further flooding at Coombe Hill. The Chelt is already breaking its banks and flooding the Leigh Meadows and Coombe Hill.

WeBS counts and once-in-five year Whooper and Bewick survey took place today.

At Coombe Hill which is still pretty iced up: only three Whoopers (no sign of the other five); 6 Bewick’s (a pair and another pair with two cygnets), 369 Canada Geese, 29 Greylags, 1360 Wigeon, 17 Gadwall, 840 Teal, 180 Mallard, 32 Pintail, 21 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Red-crested Pochard.

Cobney/Leigh Meadows (open fresh water): 450 Wigeon, 20 Gadwall, 120 Teal, 70 Mallard, 40 Pintail and an impressive male Goldeneye that flew off towards the Severn.

Ashleworth, pretty icy: 1 Shelduck, 530 Mallard, 295 Teal, 95 Mallard, 55 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 2 Pochard, 1 Great Crested Grebe.

Severn Hams (16 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The Severn has risen sharply (by two metres at Haw Bridge) since Tuesday, no doubt as a result of the thaw. This has slowed run-off from the meadows and will probably cause light flooding in the next few days.

At Coombe Hill, the snow has gone from the fields, but any surface water is still largely frozen, so there are still extensive ice sheets, making access to the hides difficult. But the birds love it! At first light this morning there were 5 Bewick’s Swans (two adults and three cygnets, all unringed, presumably the family seen in the last few days of 2009) and EIGHT Whoopers, all adults (the highest count for several years), all unringed, presumably the three seen since mid –December plus the five found at Lydney Grounds last week by Andy Jayne. Five in fact flew off towards Tewkesbury and Worcs at about 10.15am. In addition at least 660 Teal and 1200 Wigeon on the ice, very noisy and active, plus 1 Shelduck, 8 Gadwall, only 10 Shoveler and 5 Pintail.

At Ashleworth, about 300 ducks including 45 Shoveler and a Merlin.

At Walmore, no flooding yet, 13 Bewick’s Swans, including the three ringed birds TUV, BCH and 607 that are regulars.

Cirencester (13 January 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

I was cutting and splitting some logs today, in between the snow showers, when I spotted these (see David’s pictures below) tunnels in the rotten centres. These plum logs have been in my garden for three years and had begun to deteriorate and last summer they must have reached the right condition for a Leafcutter Bee to excavate tunnels. I had noticed the “cut-outs” in various plants in the garden such as Roses and Enchanter’s Nightshade but not seen where they were being transported to. As you can see in the picture, the leaf fragments have been rolled up and pulled into the tunnel where they were then filled with pollen. The Bee then laid an egg in each cell, sealing it up before constructing the next. These cells are now filled with hibernating bee larvae, ready to pupate in the spring and hatch later this year.

Top picture – leafcutter bee cells in plum logs. Bottom picture – leafcutter bee damage.

Lydney New Grounds to Guscar Rocks (12 January 2010, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Minimum counts included five adult Whooper Swans (see Andy’spicture below), 900 Wigeon, 130 Teal, a Little Egret, three Sparrowhawks, six Buzzards, two Kestrels, a Merlin, two Peregrines, eight Snipe, 50 Skylarks, 15 Ravens, ten Bramblings, ten Siskins, 250 Linnets and 15 Reed Buntings. In addition, a drake Goosander flew upriver at Guscar Rocks.

Severn Hams (12 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

Coombe Hill is still covered by ice and snow and there is open water only in one or two ditches. There has been a big decrease in birds since last Saturday: still 15 Mute Swans on one open ditch, no Whoopers (thought they might have flown out before I arrived); 10 Teal, 10 Gadwall, 40 Mallard, 5 Shoveler, 2 Snipe.

At Ashleworth: 40 Teal, 160 Mallard, 10 Shoveler; flock of 10 Reed Buntings and 200 Linnets, the biggest flock of this species for a very long time, on stubble grazed by sheep.

Sudmeadow (11 January 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

The only significant find today was a Woodcock in the area of of osier.

Woodmancote (10 January 2010, contributed by Peter Fitchett)

A Fieldfare (see Peter’s picture below) has been visiting our garden in Woodmancote for several days now during this cold period, eating the fruit on our crab apple tree. We have also had a flock of 14 goldfinches on a tall conifer.

Severn Hams (9 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The Severn has now dropped to quite a low level, allowing water to drain off Coombe Hill meadows via the Parish Drain. This still leaves sheets of ice over the meadows, but it is impossible to tell what is underneath them, so the hides are still not accessible.

All the meadows were frozen over at 9.00 this morning and there were no areas of open water in the ice. Just the Parish Drain had flowing water in it. One side ditch held 15 Mute and 3 Whoopers which had obviously roosted there. The three adult Whoopers took off at 9.35am and flew northwards towards Tewkesbury; no idea where they went to graze. Is there any grass which is not snowbound in the Tewkesbury area? Or maybe they have returned to Worcestershire? On this same ditch there were perhaps 20 ducks, mainly Mallard but with a couple of Teal, Wigeon and Gadwall.

However, a flock of about 1000 ducks, almost exclusively Teal, with half a dozen Shoveler and a few Gadwall, rose from the Long Pool and flew round continuously. Between 10.00 and 11.00am several skeins of Wigeon, at least 500 individuals, came over from the south, flying very high and going straight over; could they have been Wigeon which were on the floodwater last week, had gone to the estuary and were now flying up to take a look round? Also two or three Snipe on the ditches. About 45 Greylags flew in from the south and landed on the ice, where there had been holes last year.

At Ashleworth, one small pool in the ice held the two resident broken-winged Canada Geese and 80 Mallard.

Walmore at 1.30pm looked entirely ice- and snow-bound from the road; no sign of any birds at all, certainly no Bewick’s.

Ashleworth (8 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

Ashleworth is completely frozen over with no ducks, swans or geese on the ice at 1.30pm today.

Along the Severn bank from Haw Bridge to Chaceley Stock: remarkably few passerines in the hedges and not much on the river either, just a couple of pairs of Mute Swans, 7 Canada Geese, maybe 150 Mallard, a lone female Wigeon looking poorly, a Grey Heron and a couple of Cormorants flying over. The highlights were a Coot and three Tufted Duck. I guess that all the surface feeding ducks have returned to the estuary.

Sudmeadow (8 January 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

Today there was a Water Rail in Sudmeadow Marsh and up to 70 Teal on the river bank just below the Parting, but little else.

Chesterton, near Cirencester (7 January 2010, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

Many small flocks of Fieldfares and Redwings flying through gardens in Chesterton and settling in bushes looking for food during this very cold spell. We still have up to 6 inches of snow on the ground and this has forced the Dunnocks in our garden to start feeding directly from the nut-feeders instead of hanging around underneath waiting for the crumbs. The daily female Great-spotted Woodpecker is such a messy feeder on the nuts that she has a regular following of Blackbirds picking up the bits.

Haresfield (7 January 2010, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

There is about 5 inches of powder snow lying in the fields here. Today I watched a flock of 30 Skylarks feeding on the leaves of oil-seed rape which occasionally poke through the blanket. The photo below shows the nibble marks.

Hempstead (5 January 2010, contributed by Gordon Avery)

An adult male Peregrine flew over, heading NE, at 10.14am.

Coombe Hill (5 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart)

The Severn level is now lower still and water is flowing fast out of the meadows into the river. Milder this morning before the snow, so ice was melting and cracking.

Still a good number of ducks round a hole in the ice, but fewer than over the weekend, perhaps 2000 in all; mostly Wigeon, with a big decrease in Teal, only 150 left; 50 Pintail, 30 Gadwall, 10 Shoveler. About 65 Greylags, 50 Canada Geese, 35 Mute Swans, 3 adult Whoopers, no Bewick’s. 2 Water Rails squealing. 1 Little Grebe on the canal.

Standish (4 January 2010, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Many of the larger local fields have flocks of birds, particularly around the old airfield. The highest Lapwing count today was about 500 seen flying and there were 110 Golden Plover on one of the fields near Blooms garden centre.

Coombe Hill (4 January 2010, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

Coombe Hill has been brilliant in the last couple of days. Despite heavy icing, the mass of birds present has maintained areas of open water and there is a fantastic wildlife spectacle, all the more stunning as the light is brilliant, especially in the mornings when the sun catches all the colour in the winter willows. The hides are still inaccessible because the ice is extensive and dangerous, but excelent views can be had from the towpath.

The last few days of the 2009 saw a welcome return of Bewick’s Swans to the Severn Hams (there were no records of birds coming up from Slimbridge in winter 2008/09). A flock of 25 Bewick’s was seen flying from Ashleworth to Coombe Hill on 28 December, and there were seven at Ashleworth (a family of two adults with three cygnets, plus two adults) on 31 December.

On Saturday 2 January at Coombe Hill, there were two Bewick’s on the pool of open water in the ice at Coombe Hill (perhaps the two that had been at Ashleworth on 31 December?); they were rather unusual for Bewick’s and MS thought they were Whoopers at first because of the long sloping head shape; one was a big yellow-neb, the other had a lot of yellow on the bill and was a near penny-face with an inverted Y shaped black mark on the bill; I guess they were a pair. In the morning, there were no Whoopers present, but on Saturday afternoon Colin Butters saw the two Bewick’s accompanied by three Whoopers at Coombe Hill. Andy Jayne found them all on the afternoon of 3 January.

LB and MS had another look on the early morning of Sunday 3 January, when the three Whoopers and the two Bewick’s were present. Clearly the same two Bewick’s, which had roosted; the three Whoopers were all adults, with two behaving like a pair and a third loner. Two Whoopers had been reported briefly at Leigh Meadows in late November and the Worcs. birding website reported two at Grimley on 9 December. I imagine that the pair at Coombe Hill were the same birds. Similarly, a singleton was reported at Slimbridge on 2 November, then on the Herefordshire border in late November, at Coombe Hill from 15-19 December, then at Pirton Pool, just into Worcestershire, on 20 December. I strongly suspect that these are the same pair and singleton, wandering round the area in November (when water levels were low), which have now found their normal wintering ground (and will hopefully stay until mid-March, thus getting themselves included in the international once in five years Whooper Swan survey in January). The two Bewick’s came out of the water and were definitely not ringed.

In addition to the return of the swans there was a welcome return of White-fronted Geese which used to come up regularly from the estuary at Slimbridge to the Severn floodplain, but have only been seen very rarely in recent years as numbers have decreased on the estuary. There were two adults present on 2 January (definitely European Whitefronts from Russia, with pink bills, not the yellow-billed Greenlanders), fast asleep and looking very tired; perhaps they had come in from the east and hit Coombe Hill first instead of Slimbridge. Then, in addition, on 3 January, a flock of six (also European birds, five adults and an immature) flew in from the south (coming from the estuary?) and landed on the water.

In addition there were at least 500 Canada Geese, 135 Greylags, and a feral Bar-headed Goose on 2 January; all present again on 3 January with a Barnacle Goose. The Greylags are roosting somewhere to the south (Barrow Ponds?) and fly in a little after sunrise.

There was an absolute mass of ducks as well: for once the Teal were not hidden in the willows, and could be well seen and counted, though very closely packed, on the edge of the ice; LB and MS estimated 1490 on 2 January, Andy Jayne’s figure for 3 January was 1200. The other duck present in large numbers was, as might be expected, Wigeon; we estimated 2800 on 2 January, Andy thought 2000 on 3 January. It was striking how few Shoveler were present, they must find it hard to feed in icy conditions. Pintail numbers were not large: we thought about 50, Andy had 74. A few Mallard, Gadwall and Shelduck present too. Few waders: a flock of 150 Lapwings flew over, but could not find enough solid ground on which to land. One squealing Water Rail.

It will be interested to see whether these numbers of ducks (considerably higher than those recorded in the last few winters) will stay if the icy weather continues; it may well be that they will be forced back to the estuary in search of food.

Chalford (3 January 2010, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

A sweet violet in full bloom in a Chalford garden, not looking remotely pinched by the frost.

Severn Hams (31 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The Severn has risen sharply in the last couple of days, preventing both the Chelt and Leadon from discharging into the Severn and leading them to back flood. The water has also risen at Ashleworth/Hasfield, but Walmore has not yet flooded.

Ashleworth this morning: 7 Bewick’s Swans were on floodwater on the Hasfield side, A family part of five (two adults and three cygnets) flew in, no doubt from Slimbridge, at 10.15am; couldn’t get close enough to see bill patterns or whether they were ringed. This is actually the first record of Bewick’s on day trips to Ashleworth since February 2008, as there were none at all last winter. Also two Shelducks and a squealing Water Rail.

At Walmore: no Bewick’s, no floodwater; 70 Teal, 3 Shelducks, one Water Rail actually seen.

Port Ham and Castlemeads (26 December 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Port Ham/Castlemeads today were 20 Teal, a Little Egret (flew SW), a Sparrowhawk, two Kestrels, a Water Rail, nine Snipe, a pair of Stonechats, a Cetti’s Warbler, two Chiffchaffs and five Lesser Redpolls.

Deerhurst (25 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart)

As a follow-up to the observations and pictures of up to 30 Buzzards feeding on earthworms in a field near Berkeley on the Gloster Birder website for 1 October, today near Deerhurst there were at least 41 Buzzards on the ground, no doubt looking for earthworms in a newly sprouting field. Also about 40 Lapwings and 20 Black-headed Gulls with them.

Coombe Hill and Ashleworth (22 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The number of waterbirds has decreased sharply as the remaining floodwater ices over.

Coombe Hill is almost completely iced up. There is an ice sheet between the canal bank and Grundon Hide which is still not safely accessible. There was a small group of birds round a small hole in the ice: 20 Mute Swans, 15 Canada Geese, 10 Teal, 5 Wigeon, 10 Mallard. 2 Water Rails squealing. A flock of 7 Golden Plovers flew south. No sign of the Whooper Swan; one was reported at Pirton Pool in Worcs. yesterday and it seems likely this was the bird that was at Coombe Hill last week.

At Ashleworth, there was a much larger area of open water in the ice and more waterbirds: 12 Mute Swans, 51 Canada Geese, 500 Wigeon, 290 Teal, 40 Pintail, 101 Shoveler, 117 Mallard, 2 Gadwall. 15 Snipe on surrounding fields and a male Sparrowhawk hunting along hedges.

Walmore (21 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart)

The water level has dropped right down and most of the grassland and shallow water is frozen, but some ditches still had open water. Sharp decrease in birds, most had no doubt withdrawn to the estuary.

No Mute Swans, only 4 Mallard and 50 Teal, three Snipe and a rather bedraggled female Stonechat. Eight swans flew over at 12.30pm going northeast, almost certainly Bewick’s; they circled but didn’t land and I couldn’t see where they went.

Severn Hams (19 December 2009, contributed by David Anderson, Les Brown and Mike Smart)

The Severn continues to drop. As usual, the Severn Hams are best on a dropping flood. Leigh/Cobney Meadows is almost free of floodwater, Coombe Hill is still flooded and the hides still inaccessible, but should soon become accessible without waders. At Ashleworth, water levels have dropped considerably and the hides are easily accessible. Extensive ice cover at both Coombe Hill and Ashleworth meant that the diving ducks had departed, but surface-feeding ducks sat round open pools in the ice, offering opportunities for good counts.

At Coombe Hill: 1 Whooper, 34 Mute Swans; 750 Canada, 163 Greylag, 1 each Pinkfoot, Barnacle and Bar-headed Geese; 1450 Wigeon, 600 Teal, 140 Pintail, 45 Shoveler, 2 Golden Plover, 276 Lapwings, 5 Snipe, 2 Ruff.

At Ashleworth: 11 Mute Swans, 176 Canada Geese, 1060 Wigeon, 700 Teal, 130 Pintail, 120 Shoveler, 220 Lapwings, 4 Snipe.

At Cobney/Leigh Meadows: 5 Mute Swans, 1 Cormorant, 2 Peregrines, 30 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpipers.

Coombe Hill (18 December 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Coombe Hill Meadows this afternoon were: an adult Whooper Swan, the Pink-footed Goose, 12 Shelduck and well over 3000 other duck, mainly Wigeon and Teal, but also 200 Pintail and smaller numbers of Gadwall, Mallard and Shoveler. Also two Ruff, a Kingfisher and male Blackcap. See Andy’s pictures below.

Coombe Hill (16 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart)

The floodwater continues to drop, but the hides are still inaccessible. However, excellent views of the spectacle are available from the towpath.

At the western (Wainlodes) end, the big flock of Lapwings (800 today) that has been moving back and forth between Ashleworth and Coombe Hill around the edges of the floodwater for the last few days was joined by two Redshanks and three Ruff, plus lots of gulls and crows.

From the eastern end (Wharf) still about 3000 duck (around 2600 Wigeon and 100 Pintail), nearly 1000 geese (including the immature Pinkfoot and an adult Bar-headed Goose), 125 Lapwings plus a Dunlin and a Little Stint. One adult Whooper Swan on the floodwater, definitely unringed. Still 60 Pochard and 45 Tufted, but couldn’t find the Goldeneye today. Water Rail very vocal again.

Severn Hams (15 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The hides at Coombe Hill are still not accessible because of floodwater, but good views can be obtained from the canal towpath.

Conditions today were perfect as the dropping flood is now very shallow, allowing birds to feed comfortably, presumably on seeds and material deposited by floods. Good numbers of ducks especially Wigeon, which presumably have moved in from the estuary and lots of Canada and Greylag Geese which have moved back after dispersal during high flooding. Go and have a look before the floods drop further and the birds return to the estuary.

So the best spectacle of the winter so far and, at last, a single adult Whooper Swan (perhaps the one seen earlier in the season at Slimbridge then in Herefordshire); 9 Mutes (including 3AY with mate and their three cygnets – they nested on the canal this summer); about 570 Canada, 1 Barnacle and 190 Greylag Geese, 6 Shelducks, 2500 Wigeon, 200+ Teal (probably lots more but they hide and are difficult to count), 30 Gadwall, 94 Pintail, 40 Shoveler; even some diving ducks – 47 Tufted, 58 Pochard and a Goldeneye to boot. Two Peregrines flying round. 58 Coot (! – a huge number for the time of the year) at least one Water Rail doing it’s little pig squeal. 30 Lapwings. At least one, maybe two, Chiffchaffs plus Bullfinches and lots of Long–tailed Tits along the towpath.

Numbers at Ashleworth much smaller with a total of about 300 surface feeding ducks and another 270 Canada Geese; two Treecreepers feeding in the hedge opposite the hide.

Lydney and Aylburton (15 December 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Two Chiffchaffs at Lydney Harbour today. Another Chiffchaff and a Barn Owl (flushed from thick ivy) along the Stockwell Brook at Aylburton.

CWP(E) (12 December 2009, contributed by Ian Ralphs)

The light was so good today that it was possible to identify the food items of the 2 Great Northern Divers on pit 125 as mainly American Signal Crayfish.

North Cerney (12 December 2009, contributed by Robert Homan)

Now 3 Little Egrets feeding by the River Churn north of the village, up from just 1 on 29 November.

Cheltenham (11 December 2009, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A female Blackcap spent about 10 minutes pecking away at Mahonia japonica flowers in a garden at Christchurch, Cheltenham, presumably going for small insects visiting for nectar.

Aldsworth (10 December 2009, contributed by David Scott-Langley)

A Red Admiral butterfly was seen flying in the afternoon sunshine among trees at Aldsworth today.

Cranham (8 December 2009, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

There was a queen Buff-tailed Bumblebee flying around outside the Black Horse in Cranham village today, perhaps responding to the fairly mild conditions?

Severn Hams (6 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart)

The overnight rain has caused water levels on the meadows at both Ashleworth and Walmore to rise again, as it can’t get out to the river.

At Walmore this morning, the five Bewick’s seen yesterday were already present at 08.30am; it is not clear whether they had roosted or flown in from Slimbridge. As yesterday there was a group of three yellownebs, all adults, associating with one another as though they were a family group; two were ringed: one was TUV (“Widemouth”), black letters on a white ring on the left leg, the other BCH, black letters on a white ring reading up on the right leg. This pair have been regular visitors to Walmore for several years, often accompanied by their offspring from previous years; the third unringed bird was presumably one of their offspring from a previous year, though it looked to be an adult rather than a yearling. The three yellownebs at first kept away from the two others, both black nebs, behaving as though they were pairedy. But then all five joined forces at the edge of the water. One of the blacknebs was ringed, again a white ring with black letters on the left leg, reading up. I could only definitely read the top letter which was Z; it may have been TPZ or TSZ.

Minsterworth Ham (6 December 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Seen today were: a juvenile Dark-bellied Brent Goose, six Shelducks, a Wigeon, 34 Teal, a Shoveler, a Sparrowhawk, 300 Lapwing and four Green Sandpipers.

Severn Hams (5 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The Severn continues to drop (down half a metre overnight to 8.95m at Haw Bridge today), but is still too high for any water to be discharged from the meadows. At Ashleworth, the two outfalls from the meadows to the river had absolutely no outflow and at the Severn Bore at Minsterworth there was no sign of any water flowing out either from the ditches that drain Walmore Common.

At Walmore today: 5 Bewick’s Swans, all adults, feeding in shallow water by putting their heads under the water and pulling up vegetation, presumably grass; strange they do this when they don’t seem to like the wet grass when the floods drop. The five appeared to be a pair, both with black nebs, one with a white ring on the left leg; and a group of three yellow nebs, one ringed white left, one white right, one unringed. It was impossible to read the rings as they were far off in deepish water. I would suggest that they had flown in from Slimbridge this morning, as they weren’t seen at Walmore yesterday, so are unlikely to have roosted even though conditions are suitable. In addition to the Bewick’s, duck numbers were pretty much as yesterday: 6 Shelducks, 44 Pintail, 170 Wigeon, 300 Teal, 100 Mallard, 20 Gadwall, 50+ Shoveler. About 100 Lapwings, at least 3 Ravens.

Les Brown took another look at Longdon Marsh (just in Worcs.) and found only 25 Mallard remaining, the other ducks having disappeared, probably back to Coombe Hill, where an estimated 750 could be seen on the water from afar and Ashleworth where there were also about 750. There is a massive flock of 1050 Lapwings at Ashleworth, round the edge of the flood, such numbers have become unusual in recent years, as they all seem to rush off to Slimbridge.

Severn Hams (4 December 2009, contributed by Mike Smart)

The Severn is beginning to drop (the level is down to 9.45m at Haw Bridge) but is not yet low enough for water to discharge from the flooded meadows, where the water levels are still increasing slightly. So the Coombe Hill hides remain inaccessible, though the hides at Ashleworth are still perfectly accessible from the Ham Road.

With such high water levels in Gloucestershire, it seems that many of the Ashleworth/Coombe Hill ducks have moved to Longdon Marsh, just in Worcestershire, where Les Brown fond about 1,000 surface feeding ducks on Wednesday.

At The Mythe, Tewkesbury today, a Treecreeper singing already! Over the Severn Ham at Tewkesbury a Peregrine, making directly for the abbey.

At Walmore around 11.45 am, the flooding was still extensive and there were about 700 ducks present: 6 Shelducks, 100 Wigeon, 300 Teal, 100 Mallard, 25 Gadwall, 150 Shoveler, 50 Pintail, also 200 Lapwings and 30 Canada Geese and a single adult Bewick’s Swan; it was sleeping on the earth banks left when the ditches were cleaned out, not feeding, looking pretty tired, soperhaps it had recently arrived.

Walmore Common (2 December 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Five adult Bewick’s Swans today. Other wildfowl included minimum counts of 40 Canada Goose, five Shelduck, 120 Wigeon, 29 Gadwall, 250 Teal, 200 Mallard, 35 Pintail and 70 Shoveler.

Gloucester (2 December 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

A Barn Owl was between Elmbridge and Barnwod over the ‘waste’ ground just NE of the Wall’s factory in the early hours (just after midnight).

Sedbury (1 December 2009, contributed by Gordon Avery)

The Pomarine Skua was still present this morning and looked very bedraggled, although it is still doing the occasional fly round. Also seen were 13 Redshank and 2 Rock Pipits.

Aylburton (29 November 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Aylburton this morning, a possible Siberian Chiffchaff seen briefly along the Stockwell Brook, but no further sign during the next two hours in blustery conditions. Also in the area a Sparrowhawk, a Peregrine, 50 Golden Plover, 1000+ Lapwing, 540 Dunlin, one Snipe, 92 Curlew, two Redshank, two Treecreepers, 10 Ravens, 25 Goldfinch, a Siskin and 15 Reed Buntings plus a Stoat and two Brown Hares.

North Cerney (29 November 2009, contributed by Robert Homan)

A Little Egret by the River Churn just north of the village early afternoon.

Severn Hams (28 November 2009, contributed by Les Brown and Mike Smart)

The Severn is still high today (10.52 at Haw Bridge) but has not overtopped its banks and has probably just passed its peak height. Both the Red Lion road at Wainlodes and the Ham road at Ashleworth have remained open all week. However, the high Severn level means that none of the local streams (especially the Chelt) can flow out into the river and so are backing up and flooding meadows in the area.

At Coombe Hill, the floodwater has risen slightly, both hides are inaccessible, but the towpath is still (just) open at its fartherest points, giving splendid views of birds on the floodwater: a genuine wildlife spectacle including 14 Mute Swans, 660 Canada Geese, 45 Greylags, 800 Wigeon, 200+ Teal, 105 Pintail, 30 Shoveler, even 3 Tufted Duck and a Pochard.

The Leigh Meadows have been extensively flooded by the River Chelt.

At Ashleworth the water is also a little higher, but the hide is still easily accessible. Most of the Coombe Hill geese flew over to Ashleworth in mid morning and in addition there were a Sparrowhawk, 315 Lapwings and 7 Snipe; about 25 Pied Wagtails and 20 Meadow Pipits round the edge of the flood.

Still no sign of Whooper Swans anywhere.

Severn Hams (22 November 2009, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

With yet more rain, water levels on the Severn and tributaries have risen considerably and there is now moderate flooding at both Ashleworth and Coombe Hill. At Coombe Hill, both the Grundon and Long Pool Hides are currently inaccessible, but good views of water birds can be obtained from the canal towpath. At Ashleworth, there is plenty of water on the fields, but the Ham Road is open and all hide are easily accessible.

Seen at Coombe Hill: 250 Canada Geese. 40 Greylags, 1 Pinkfoot, 300 Wigeon, 30 Teal,14 Shoveler, 22 Pintail, 11 Gadwall, 28 Snipe, 1 Peregrine.

Seen at Ashleworth: 550 Canada Geese,11 Greylags, 6 Mute Swans, 215 Wigeon, 105 Teal, 11 Gadwall, 200 Mallard 5 Pintial, 21 Shoveler, 4 Snipe.

No sign of any Whooper Swans.

Severn Hams (17 November 2009, contributed by Mike Smart)

The local rain of the last few days (a total of 26mm in Gloucester on Thursday and Friday, but only 42 mm in the last week) plus rain higher up the catchment in North Wales and high tides in the Severn (9.2 metres at Sharpness at 7.52 am today) have combined to cause the level of the Severn to rise (9.60m at Haw Bridge, probably tide affected, but still the highest since the end of January). As a result local streams cannot flow out and are also at a high level: the Chelt is very high at Wainlodes and close to overtopping its banks along the Leigh Meadows. Coombe Hill is lightly flooded with water just over the boardwalk but all hides are accessible with boots; water is pouring into the GWT reserve at Ashleworth.

These are ideal conditions for arriving Whooper Swans, but, alas none found as yet. At Coombe Hill, about 300 Canada Geese, 30 Greylags, the juvenile Pinkfoot still present, at least 300 Wigeon, 200 Teal, 20 Shoveler; 7 Snipe feeding on maize stubble from which good numbers of gnats were rising; Fieldfares and Redwings everywhere and even a few Song Thrushes.

Severn Hams (10 November 2009, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

At Coombe Hill, the water level at Coombe Hill is just beginning to rise in the scrapes and Long Pool after a dry autumn. The goose roost included 235 Canadas, 45 Greylags and a Pinkfoot, which must have been wild because it was a juvenile (somebody had taken a picture). All grazed happily in front of the Grundon Hide all morning presenting an attractive spectacle. 22 Wigeon, 155 Teal, 60 Mallard 1 Pochard, 4 Green Sandpipers and a little flock of 5 Redshank, most unusual here at this time of year; one Kingfisher. The hedges were full of Fieldfares and Redwings with at least 100 of each.

At Ashleworth too, the water is beginning to flow into the reserve; 5 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler.

Hasfield and Ashleworth (9 November 2009, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Despite the weather having turned colder at the start of November, there are still butterflies about. At mid-day, I counted eight Painted Ladies on a lavender hedge in Ashleworth, all in good condition. However, it is getting colder and two hours earlier there had been frost on the grass under the eaves of Corse Grove, Hasfield.

Coombe Hill (6 November 2009, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Coombe Hill Meadows today, a Water Pipit from the Grundon Hide on the left-hand scrape from 10.35 to 11.00am.

Standish (23 October, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Over the last week Starlings have been going round in flocks of 100 or more, descending on elder bushes and eating the berries. (See the pictures below taken by Paul Tyers of the birds at Standish). I’ve always thought it a bit odd that the classic 1954 book “Food in England” by Dorothy Hartley gives November as the month when elderberries are ripe. There have been ripe berries here since September.

Corse Court Farm (18 October, contributed by Robert Homan)

A mixed flock of 50 Redwings and Fieldfares in and around the orchards at the farm this morning.

Sudmeadow (8 October, contributed by Gordon Avery)

A couple of items from early afternoon: a Green Sandpiper on the Plantation Pool and a male Stonechat just below the Lower Parting.

The Park, Tidenham Chase (8 October, contributed by Ian Ralphs)

A walk today produced a good variety of wildlife with 2 Hawfinch, 15 Crossbill, and singles of both Redpoll and Siskin, 10 Raven, 9 Chiffchaff, 25 Meadow Pipits, an easterly passage of 50 Skylarks mid morning, 1 Swallow and 6 Stonechats.

Also 2 Southern Hawkers, 1 Migrant Hawker and a Common Darter, and 4 Red Admirals flying strongly due south over Poors Allotment around 11.

GLS (7 October, contributed by Gordon Avery)

Seen today was the area’s first ever Rock Pipit, found on one of the drainage pools by the tip.

Standish (early October, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Moles are very active in the garden currently creating hills and surface runs. This follows months without problems, though it was equally bad last winter and spring. I hoped that they had sorted out their tunnel system then. Is this just a spate of tunnel maintenance, or is it young dispersing? My leeks are looking terrible (see picture below). I blame Acrolepiopsis assectella, the leek moth, which I understand to be a relatively new arrival in Gloucestershire. Add fungal rust and I’m likely to lose the crop. Onto more cheerful matters – there were four species of butterfly in my garden today (4 October) sunning themselves or feeding on ivy flowers. There was Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Comma, and Painted Lady. In addition there are small white and large white caterpillars feeding on the brassicas. Until 25 September there were plenty of Swallows about, but most disappeared that weekend. I saw three on 30 September, but none subsequently.

Ashleworth (4 October, contributed by Ian Ralphs)

A quiet circular walk at Ashleworth Ham this afternoon produced 5 south bound Swallows, 3 very fresh Small Coppers, 5 large Whites, 1 Southern Hawker, and several Common Darters. There were several plants of Great Burnet coming back into flower in the meadows.

Pillhouse Rocks, Tidenham (4 October, contributed by Andy Jayne)

17 Sandwich Terns were seen today off Pillhouse Rocks. Subsequent research in the Glos Bird Reports published since Swaine’s book showed that this is the second highest count in the county, the highest being of 19 flying downstream at the New Grounds on 1st October 1983. It seems there are no other counts of more than six, so both of these records are exceptional.

Hartpury Orchard Centre (30 September, contributed by Robert Homan)

There were two Brown Hares in the orchard and 2 Snipe and a Kingfisher in the wetland area. (There will be a field meeting at the centre on Sunday 15 November at 11.00am)

Sudmeadow (29 and 30 September, contributed by Gordon Avery)

On the 29th there was a Peregrine over the tip and a Green Sandpiper was by the pylon pool. The Green Sandpiper was also there on the 30th.

Coombe Hill and Ashleworth Ham (29 September, contributed by Les Brown)

Today at Coombe Hill a Marsh Harrier flew past the Grundon Hide at 07.20am and kept going to the west. There were two Fieldfares along the canal. Overall the water level is dropping and there were no waders left.

At Ashleworth there were two Snipe and a Green Sandpiper.

Sudmeadow (28 September, contributed by Gordon Avery)

A ringing session this morning produced relatively few birds. The only migrants trapped were 3 Chiffchaffs and 2 Blackcaps. Of note was a Wood Pigeons’ nest with 2 young in it at quite a late date. Over the Oxlease at 10.15am was a flock of c.70 Canada Geese flying east then they split up and half of them flew over Sudmeadow – a massive flock for around here.

Ashleworth Ham (27 September, contributed by Mike Smart and Mervyn Greening)

The results were very different today from yesterday. The conditions were similar although there were rather more sunny periods making the nets a bit more visible at times. Only 46 birds caught, essentially the same species as yesterday: 17 Meadow Pipits, 16 Reed Buntings, seven Chaffinches, three Chiffchaffs, but no Greenfinches. In general, small birds were much less in evidence; had they perhaps departed on migration last night, which was bright, moonlit and very suitable for passerine migration. The Canadas were flying downriver again early in the morning in even greater numbers, 55 from Coombe Hill and 100 from Tirley Court.

Sudmeadow (26 September, contributed by Gordon Avery)

There was still a Green Sandpiper present in the garden mulch area today.

Ashleworth Ham (26 September, contributed by Mike Smart and Mervyn Greening)

Perfect ringing conditions this morning with practically no wind and high cloud, so that the birds could not see the nets producing one of the best catches of the year with 148 birds. Clearly some passerine passage was going on: 29 Meadow Pipits caught (out of 50 or more present), the majority being first year birds with only seven adults; 36 Reed Buntings caught, clearly many migrants; there was also evidence of a finch passage with 17 Chaffinches and 25 Greenfinches caught. Nine Chiffchaffs were caught, but no other warblers. The water level iss very low with few waterbirds present: 50 Canada Geese flew down the Severn from the roost at Coombe Hill, another 50 from the Tirley roost, perhaps going to feed at Minsterworth Ham.

Hasfield Ham and Coomble Hill (24 September, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Hasfield Ham today: three Kestrels, a Kingfisher, a Redstart, five Whinchats, a male Stonechat and a Common Whitethroat.

At Coombe Hill Meadows – a Shelduck, 28 Teal, five Shoveler, a Water Rail, a Snipe, a Greenshank, a Kingfisher and a Sedge Warbler. Most of these in the Long Pool area as the other scrapes have almost completely dried out.

Sudmeadow (20 September, contributed by Gordon Avery)

Seen today were 1 adult Dabchick on the pylon pool, 5 Cormorants in the roost tree (the largest number this Autumn so far), 2 Snipe (the first birds of the Autumn), 2 Green Sandpipers and 22 Meadow Pipits. There was at least 1 Whinchat at Port Ham.

Stoke Orchard and Bishops Cleeve tips (18 September, contributed by Gordon Avery and John sanders)

Seen at Stoke Orchard tip were 1 Green Sandpiper, 20 Meadow Pipits, 1 Whinchat and 80 Goldfinches, while there was a male Stonechat at Grundon’s B.C. tip.

Ashleworth Ham (18 September, contributed by Robert Homan)

As Mike Smart has previously noted a crop of hay has been taken from the fields on and around the reserve and bird diverters have been placed on the electricity transmission lines across the reserve. The pictures here show the scene in mid-September and convey some of the richness of the wildlife to be seen in the area. Second from bottom is the gall of the psyllid Trichochermes wakeri on buckthorn and bottom is Ribautiana ulmi, a common bug associated with elm.

Coombe Hill (15 September, contributed by Les Brown and Mike Smart)

A very early visit today, before first light, produced both Barn and Tawny Owl calling over fields south of the canal. Otherwise, the water is dropping gradually in the scrapes and Long Pool, leaving extensive muddy edges. 175 Canada Geese and 145 Greylag Geese had roosted on the Long Pool and flew to the meadows in front of the scrapes to feed for a while before departing to the south east, probably to the Barrow Ponds area. 2 Shelducks, 40 Teal, 6 Shoveler, 1 Pintail, 3 Curlews, 2 Greenshanks, 1 Green Sandpiper, 5 Snipe. A male Peregrine surveying the scene from the top of a willow. A light Swallow passage, about 30 individuals, plus flock of 15 Mistle Thrushes and a few Chiffchaffs calling in the scrub.

Coombe Hill and Ashleworth (8 September, contributed by and Mike Smart)

A visit to Coombe Hill at first light today produced: 2 Little Egrets, which had roosted but flew off early on, 2 Shelducks, 40 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 1 Sparrowhawk, 15 Lapwings, 5 Snipe, 1 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper; interestingly, three Curlew had roosted – they too flew out early on. There was a light passage to southwest of Swallows (15) and Meadow Pipits (5). Fox sprainting all over the open grass meadow.

Scrub clearance along canal bank has not yet started.

At Ashleworth, all the hay has now been cut and baled and trees on the island have been cut right back in an attempt to restore the scrape to its original condition.

Walmore (2 September, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Walmore Common this afternoon: a Redstart, three Whinchats, two Reed Warblers, two Lesser Whitethroats and a Spotted Flycatcher.

Coombe Hill (1 September, contributed by Les Brown and Mike Smart)

Coombe Hill is looking excellent after the first almost “normal” summer for three years. The hay is all cut (both northern and southern meadows), cattle are grazing the meadows and the water levels on the scrapes and Long Pool are just right for passing waders, with plenty of exposed mud round the edges of the scrapes; most of the vegetation and willow scrub has been cleared from the islands in the scrapes.

Two Little Egrets, one juvenile Shelduck, 120 Mallard, 50 Teal, 2 Shoveler, six Lapwings, three Ringed Plover (NOT Little), one Ruff, 3 Greenshanks, one Green Sandpiper, 15 Snipe, one Wheatear, two Whinchats.

Longney (9 August, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Seen this afternoon were: a Ringed Plover, a Black-tailed Godwit and Common Sanpiper on the sands and a juvenile Sparrowhawk, a Wheatear and four Yellow Wagtails along the riverbank.

Walmore (8 August, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Seen at Walmore Common today: a Hobby, a Curlew and three Whinchats (adult & two juveniles). Also a Brown Hawker.

Sudmeadow (6 August, contributed by Gordon Avery)

An excellent CES session this morning with 58 birds trapped, the highlights being 5 Garden Warblers and 24 Blackcaps. They seem to have had a good breeding season. In addition, there were at least 3 Green Sandpipers in the area.

Walmore and Westbury (30 July, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Walmore Common there were two adult Whinchats and at Westbury-on-Severn there were three Common Sandpipers at The Strand.

Severn Hams (27/28 July, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

Coombe Hill, on the evening of 27 July: 60 Lapwings, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Curlews (an adult and a fledged juvenile), 1 Snipe, 21 Green Sandpipers, practically a flock, 1 Barn Owl.

Upham Meadow, Twyning on 28 July: 1 Hobby, all Curlews had departed and there was no sign of Corn Buntings. No more hay has been cut since 20 June.

Severn Hams (25 July, contributed by Mike Smart)

Coombe Hill: 3 Little Egrets, 2 Grey Herons, 26 Greylag Geese, 3 Little Ringed Plovers (all migrant juveniles), at least 11 Green Sandpipers, 65 Lapwings, 2 Curlews (an adult and a fledged juvenile).

Tirley Court Lake: 12 Barnacle Geese, all in moult. They did not nest this year.

Ashleworth: hay cutting has actually started on higher ground.

Coombe Hill (20 July, contributed by Mike Smart)

There were good views from the Long Pool hide with light behind the observer. 1 Little Egret, 50 Mallard (family of nine tiny ducklings), 2 eclipse Teal, female Tufted Duck with five ducklings on canal, 2 LRPs (both juveniles), 2 Snipe, 5 Green Sandpipers (at least one adult in wing moult), 2 Sand Martins, plenty of juvenile Chiffchaffs calling with tit flocks along the canal.

Coombe Hill (18 July, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

The recent rain raised the spectre of summer flooding again, but fortunately the amounts were nothing like those of July 2007 or September 2008, so there was no flooding on the meadows and only a scarcely perceptible rise in ditch levels.

At Coombe Hill this morning: one Little Egret, a female Tufted Duck with five ducklings on the canal, a female Sparrowhawk, four Little Ringed Plovers (two adults and two juveniles, migrants not local nesters), 70 Lapwings, five Green Sandpipers, one Curlew.

At the Wainlodes end and also at Ashleworth, the electricity company has installed bird diverters on the power lines, as part of a once in thirty years renewal of the lines. The diverters look minuscule: will they really prevent bird strikes? It Will be interesting to see the results, especially for swans.

Standish (12 July, contributed by Juliet Bailey)

Today in my garden small tortoiseshells were particularly abundant round the nettle beds and flowering thistles in the new orchard, and there were several painted ladies here. The garden also produced small skipper, ringlet, gatekeeper, comma, green-veined white and small white. There was a solitary red admiral on the buddleia, which was rather butterfly-free, considering how loaded it can be some years. It was warm and sunny, though rather windy, so perhaps it was not ideal.

Coombe Hill (8 July, contributed by Mike Smart and Les Brown)

Rather quiet, although the water levels in the scrapes and the Long Pool look ideal for migrant waders; very little hay has been cut, whether on or off the reserve, because of the damp weather. The vegetation in front of Long Pool hide has been cleared improving viewing greatly.

15 Grey Herons (including a flock of 12 on Cobney Meadows), 2 Teal, 2 Tufted Ducks, still three Mallard with ducklings (one of which was carried off by a passing Sparrowhawk), 1 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpipers, 3 Lapwings; the Curlews seem to have departed. Still at least one Reed Warbler, two or three Sedge Warblers and three or more Reed Buntings singing.

At night, Common Sandpipers flying over high in the moonlight and calling, without stopping. Maybe that’s what all the passage waders are doing.

Sudmeadow (2 July, contributed by Gordon Avery)

There was an adult male Peregrine in the area this morning and I trapped a juvenile Nightingale (a species which does not breed here) and it still had a speckly head like a juvenile Robin. Nothing else really except for a exceptional catch of 16 new Blackcaps and the first juvenile Garden Warbler as well, again a species which does not breed here.

Barrington and Windrush area (2 July, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Great Barrington today there were two Quails calling and at Windrush Airfield there were another two Quails, a Red-legged Partridge with 11 chicks, a ‘reeling’ Grasshopper Warbler showing well and also three Corn Buntings.

Lydney (1 July, contributed by Andy Jayne)

At Lydney Harbour two Common Terns on the sands then flew inland towards the pools.

Westbury-on-Severn (1 July, contributed by Andy Jayne)

Westbury-on-Severn today produced a Hobby, a Common Sandpiper, a 2nd-summer Yellow-legged Gull, four Grey Wagtails and four Lesser Whitethroats. At Lydney Harbour two Common Terns on the sands then flew inland towards the pools.