Location: Bradford Dale, Derbyshire.
Attendees – Richard, Carina, Liz, Dennis & Lorraine.
Date of tours: 22nd January 2023
Number of species seen & heard – 35 birds (now at 72 for the site)
A crisp cold walk along frozen paths was a real treat and a wonderful winter stroll.
We started off well with seeing our first Dipper within seconds of our arrival, it was a quick flash and better was to come.
We followed the usual circuit taking in the Rheinstor plantation, Hollow farm and it’s pond where we had Mute Swan, Fieldfare, Greylag Goose, House Sparrow and Grey Heron. As we approached Youlgreave a soaring Buzzard was observed welcoming us to Bradford Dale proper.
We then had a couple of hours taking in this beautiful valley, watching the wildlife and chatting as everyone got to know each other a little better. The Dipper, as ever, stole the show with many sightings of at least 3 different birds. It was made all the better because the 2 male birds were singing. Now I don’t know if you have ever heard the song of a Dipper, but it is the most wonderful sound cutting through the noise of the water. I have heard it many times but never like this, never as clear and so close.
Goldcrest were everywhere, and so close. Even out in the open feeding on the waters edge.
Photo by Lorraine Holland
Other notable birds were good views of Little Grebe and Grey Wagtail.
Full list of birds noted.
Mute Swan
Greylag Goose
Canada Goose
Teal
Mallard
Pheasant
Grey Heron
Little Grebe
Buzzard
Moorhen
Coot
Woodpigeon
Collared Dove
Magpie
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Goldcrest
Blue Tit
Great Tit
Coal Tit
Long-tailed Tit
Wren
Starling
Dipper
Blackbird
Fieldfare
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Robin
Dunnock
House Sparrow
Grey Wagtail
Chaffinch
Goldfinch
Bullfinch
End