Bird Report

Introduction

A total of 141 species, excluding escapes, was recorded - two down on last year. None of them was new for the area. I suppose, after twenty odd years of recording, that the chances of finding new species are diminishing, especially as we are not on any major migration route.

In response to comments received, I have included a note on status with each species. It is entirely my own opinion of the bird's status in our area. I will be pleased to receive any comments from anyone who considers that I am wide of the mark with any of them.

Neil Southworth (Records Secretary)

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Uncommon breeding bird

This species is becoming increasingly scarce / elusive

Records were confined to one at Cuerden Park Lake on 16^th April, a pair with one young at a Whittle quarry on 3^rd July, and up to three regularly present at Belmont and Wards reservoir through September, October & November

Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)

Common breeding bird, less common in winter

Breeds on all suitable waters in the Chorley area. Records included pairs at the nest at Red Lea reservoir on 20^th April, Anglezarke reservoir on 11^th May and Heapey lodges on 20^th May. A pair at Birkacre had three young by 26^th May, and three pairs with 4,3 and 2 juveniles respectively were noted on Lower Rivington reservoir on 8^th August. A pair was displaying at Birkacre on 22^nd December

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Regular visitor

Not as many records as in previous years, but regularly recorded at its favoured site on the River Douglas at Croston, where there were 13 on 16^th April. Two were in Brook House Bay, Anglezarke reservoir, on 17^th April. One was noted on Lower Rivington reservoir on 12^th November

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)

Common visitor. Has attempted to breed

Can be found throughout the year at all suitable sites in the area. Nested at one site but was unsuccessful

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Uncommon but increasing breeding bird

Its recovery continues as its population increases from none a few years ago to several pairs now. Two were noted on Lower Rivington reservoir on 3rd January, and one at Brinscall on 10th January. The pair at Birkacre hatched 4 cygnets on 26th May A pair with 6 cygnets was observed on the River Yarrow at its confluence with the River Douglas on 29th July. 1FT and its unringed mate were seen with 3 cygnets along canal spur at Whittle on 17th August A single bird was recorded in the centre of Lower Rivington reservoir on 27th September

Pink-Footed Goose (Anser brachyrhynchus)

Mainly recorded on passage during the winter months

Records received were as follows:-

• 250 over Rivington on 4^th January, with 100 over Eaves Lane, Chorley same day.
• One on Belmont reservoir on 3^rd February
• 60 over Grey Heights on 11^th February
• 130 flying south east over Grey Heights on 16^th October
• Skein flying west over Rivington on 9^th December
• 140 flying south east over Rivington on 27^th December

Greylag Goose (Feral/escape) (Anser anser)

Scarce feral species

Four were noted in a field by Croston Reed Bed on 22^nd April. A pair was resident at Belmont from April to June but there was no sign of breeding

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)

Common resident

Breeding continues to be controlled under licence at Belmont. The maximum at the site was 132 in June. The species seems, however to be finding sufficient alternative sites to maintain its population in the area.

A flock of around 100 was at Withnell Fold 'scrapes' on 6^th August

Barnacle Goose (Branta leucopsis)

Scarce feral species. Has bred.

Up to three were present at Belmont throughout the year.

Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna)

Regular breeder in the west. Occasional visitor in the east

Seven on River Douglas at Croston on 2^nd April was typical of records from the mosslands.

Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor

Records received were as follows:-

• Pair on Anglezarke reservoir on 20^th March
• Five on Withnell Fold 'scrapes' on 27^th August, and two there on 18^th September.
• Six at Belmont on 17^th September
• Female on Anglezarke reservoir on 24^th September
• Five on Anglezarke reservoir on 7^th October
• Pair on Anglezarke reservoir on the 17^th December

Gadwall (Anas strepera)

Scarce visitor

A pair on the River Douglas at Croston on 22^nd April was the only record.

Teal (Anas crecca)

Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor

The best early winter count was of 40 on Lower Rivington reservoir on 12^th March. 10 were on the River Douglas at Croston on 2^nd April

12 at Withnell Fold 'scrapes' on 27^th August increased to 110 by 22^nd September. This seems to have become a favoured autumn passage site with birds moving between the scrapes and nature reserve, before moving on as winter arrives.

Garganey (Anas qeurquedula)

Rare passage migrant

A drake on Cuerden Park lake on 6^th May was the only record.

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common winter visitor and breeding resident

Breeds on all suitable waters in good numbers, and the local population is supplemented in winter by visitors from the north.

Pintail (Anas acuta)

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor

Records received were as follows:-

• Pair on Anglezarke reservoir on 12^th March
• Two on Anglezarke reservoir on 27^th August
• Three drakes on Anglezarke reservoir on 29^th December

Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant

Up to 27 were present on Anglezarke reservoir throughout January

44 were counted on the Rivington reservoir system on 12^th November

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Scarce breeder.

A pair was on Lower Rivington and Anglezarke reservoirs on 14^th & 15^th June, and a female was noted with four young at Belmont on 9^th August

The best winter count was of 95 on the Rivington reservoir system on 12^th November

Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula)

Declining winter visitor and passage migrant

Is this species following the Whooper Swan to Martin Mere? Certainly since they deepened the mere, numbers on the reservoirs seem to have diminished. In fact, 6 on Lower Rivington reservoir on the 16^th was the best count for January. 15 were on Lower Rivington reservoir on 12^th March, and four on Upper Rivington reservoir on 26^th April were the latest record for the first winter period.

One on Anglezarke & one on High Bullough reservoirs on 12^th November were the first, relatively late, records for the second winter period.

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Rare winter visitor

A female (red-head) was noted in the company of Goldeneye on Anglezarke reservoir on 16th November

Goosander (Mergus merganser)

Winter visitor in increasing numbers

Anglezarke reservoir tends to be its favoured location, but the species also seems to like the Millstone corner of Lower Rivington reservoir. It is, however, very mobile and individuals can turn up anywhere. Records were also received from Birkacre, Heapey lodges and Yarrow reservoir. The best count at Anglezarke was 31 on 13^th February, and at Lower Rivington there were 20 on 12^th March. The latest record for the 1^st winter period was one on Anglezarke reservoir on the 1st May.

The first in autumn was a drake on Anglezarke reservoir on 22^nd October. Thereafter numbers were low with nine on Anglezarke reservoir on 16^th November, and three on Lower Rivington reservoir on 17^th December being typical.

Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis)

Uncommon breeding resident

Apart from the resident birds at Arley, very few records were received. One of these was of a bird at Bretherton on 3^rd May.

Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus0

Rare but annual passage migrant

A male was watched for 15 minutes over Croston Moss on 30^th April, and a female/immature was observed flying low over Stronstrey Bank on 21^st July

Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus)

Scarce passage migrant, occasionally lingers in winter

All records are from the moors around Belmont:-

• Male on 18^th April
• Female/immature on 13^th August
• Male seen irregularly throughout November
• Female/immature on 30^th December

Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus)

Increasingly common resident

Regular visitor to garden feeding stations, it is also resident in the area of Withnell Fold nature reserve. Recorded regularly at Birkacre, Anglezarke, Rivington and White Coppice. One was noted at Eyes Lane Bretherton on 7^th May

Buzzard (Buteo buteo)

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Possible breeder.

One or two were seen regularly throughout January over Croston & Mawdesley Moss. Singles were recorded at Belmont on 19^th March, 18^th April & 28^th May. One was observed at Hoghton on 4^th April being mobbed by pair of Ravens and a pair was seen displaying at the same site on 28^th September. A pair was seen over Bank Hall, Bretherton, on 18^th April and again on 8^th August

Other records included:-

• One seen over the canal at Adlington on 21^st August
• One seen over the south end of Cuerden Park on 1^st October
• One seen over Great Hanging Bridge, Croston on 15^th December

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)

Rare passage migrant

One was reported flying north along A6 from direction of Blackrod on 2^nd April, and another was seen flying low over Lower Rivington reservoir on 13^th April

Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

Fairly common resident

Two pairs bred successfully at Belmont reservoir. A male with two juveniles was recorded near Morris's Barn, Rivington on 14^th August. Regularly seen hovering over the motorway at Hartwood and Anderton, and over the moorland edge at White Coppice. Many records received from Anglezarke and Rivington.

Merlin (Falco columbarius)

Scarce resident and passage migrant.

Ones & twos were seen around Belmont in all months except January, February & December. A female was noted over Anglezarke Moor on 7^th April. One was reported at Charnock Richard golf course on 10^th July

Hobby (Falco subbuteo)

Rare summer visitor

One was recorded at Heapey lodges on 10th June. An unconfirmed report was received of one chasing House Martins near Chorley Hospital on 15th July.

Peregrine (Falco peregrinus)

Scarce resident and winter visitor. Has bred.

One was observed over Anglezarke moor on 8^th January, and one was noted on Croston Moss on 30^th January and again on 12^th March. Ones & twos were seen around Belmont in all months except January

Three separate birds were seen flying south along Stronstrey Bank on 3^rd September, and another was seen flying low over Upper Rivington reservoir on 14^th September. No records were received this year from Hoghton. If anyone does have records, please could they submit them.

Red Grouse (Lagopus lagopus)

Resident in small numbers on the moors

Three pairs were on Hurst Hill, Anglezarke Moor, on 6^th April, and two pairs were with young on Anglezarke moor on 18^th July. Several were seen on Withnell moor on 15^th July. Small numbers were noted on Anglezarke Moor on 12^th December

Red-Legged Partridge (Alectoris rufa)

Scarce resident boosted by birds released for shooting

One was recorded on Croston Moss on 2^nd April, two on 16^th April and one on 7^th May. 35 released birds were at Belmont on 30^th September.

Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix)

Uncommon resident boosted by birds released for shooting

Eight were noted on Croston moss on 23^rd January, with another there on 2^nd April. 12 were near Manor House farm, Anglezarke on 22^nd August. Five were observed at the edge of a plantation on Anglezarke Moor on 12^th December

Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)

Common resident

Many were released on the mosses and on the moors for game purposes. Also resident at Withnell Fold.

Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus) Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant One was seen at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 2nd September

Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)

Common resident

Breeds at all suitable waters with good numbers being successful at Birkacre. Recorded with young at Anglezarke, Rivington, Withnell Fold and Yarrow in June

Coot (Fulica atra)

Common resident

Good numbers breed and winter at Birkacre. Most waters have breeding pairs. Recorded with young at Anglezarke and White Coppice in June.

Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)

Increasing passage migrant and summer visitor; scarce breeder

In February, pairs returned to Anglezarke (13^th), Lower Rivington (19^th) & Withnell Fold (26^th). Pairs were recorded on Croston Moss, Mawdesley Moss and Eyes Lane Bretherton on 16^th April. A pair was feeding in a field by Anglezarke reservoir on 17^th April. Five pairs bred at Belmont reservoir, but only two young fledged due to water levels

Little Ringed Plover (Charadrius dubius)

Uncommon summer visitor

The first in spring was seen by the canal at Withnell Fold on 8^th April. Five pairs bred at Belmont reservoir but few young seen due to adverse water levels. An adult and juvenile were noted at Withnell Fold on 15^th July

Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula)

Uncommon passage migrant

A single at Belmont on 20^th & 21^st June was the only record.

Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria)

Uncommon passage migrant. Has bred.

One near Great Hill on 4^th September was the only record.

Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Common resident and winter visitor

16 were noted flying north over Croston Moss on 23^rd January. February records included 80 over Birkacre on 8^th, 50 on Gale Moss, Chorley on 13^th, 40 by the canal at Withnell on 26^th, and 20 around the upper Yarrow valley (Anglezarke Moor) on the 20^th

50 were on Mawdesley Moss on 16^th April, and 4 were sitting on Croston Moss. An adult with three well grown young was noted on Anglezarke Moor on 30^th April. Several pairs on Anglezarke Moor had chicks by mid May, and several pairs on Croston Moss had well grown young by 7^th May. 36 adults and 17 young were counted on Mawdesley Moss also on 7^th May.

Several with chicks were at Withnell Fold on 2^nd July, and one with chick was at Rivington on 3^rd July. A post-breeding flock of approximately 40 was at Anglezarke reservoir on 13^th August, and another of 133 was counted at Belmont on 17^th September. 2 at Rivington & 4 over Anglezarke Moor were noted on 30^th December.

Dunlin (Calidris alpina)

Scarce breeder and passage migrant

One or two pairs bred at Belmont reservoir.

Ruff (Philomachus pugnax)

Scarce passage migrant

One in fields alongside Marsh Lane, Withnell, on 16^th & 17^th September was the only record.

Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)

Fairly common passage / winter visitor; scarce breeder

Records received included the following:-

• One at Rivington on 3^rd January
• Two at Croston on 23^rd January
• Three at Birkacre throughout February.
• Two pairs bred at Belmont reservoir
• Twenty at Withnell Fold 'scrapes' on 10^th August, and 11 there on 2^nd September.
• One at Birkacre on 28^th December
• Two at Anglezarke on 29^th December

Jack Snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus)

Rare winter visitor

Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola)

Fairly common resident

One was noted at the edge of a plantation on Anglezarke moor (27^th January). Two or three were observed roding at Roddlesworth on 6^th May. One was recorded at Rivington on 23^rd December

Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus)

Regular passage migrant

23 flew east over Croston Moss on 30^th April. One was recorded at Belmont reservoir on 14^th May and two on 1^st September

Curlew (Numenius arquata)

Fairly common passage migrant and summer visitor

Maximum roost at Belmont was 160 on 12^th March. Three pairs were noted around the upper Yarrow Valley, Anglezarke on 7^th April. Good numbers were noted in the Brindle area during the breeding season.

Redshank (Tringa totanus)

Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor

Four pairs bred at Belmont reservoir with at least 6 young fledged. One was noted on Anglezarke reservoir on 19^th July

Greenshank (Tringa nebularia)

Scarce passage migrant

One was noted at Belmont reservoir on 11^th July, and another on Anglezarke reservoir on 19^th July

Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)

Fairly common passage migrant and summer visitor; has wintered

The first in Spring was noted at Cuerden on 16^th April, and another was seen on the River Douglas, Bretherton on 23^rd April. Five pairs bred at Belmont reservoir. A pair with two young was observed on Lower Rivington reservoir on 4^th July, and two were noted on Anglezarke reservoir on 19^th July

Black-Headed Gull (Larus ridibundus)

Present in good numbers throughout the year

No breeding took place at Belmont due to adverse water levels. Flocks of twenty or thirty are frequently recorded at Birkacre in winter.

Common Gull (Larus canus)

Common winter visitor

Present in good numbers on the reservoirs in winter. There are often one or two with the Black-headed Gulls at Birkacre.

Lesser Black-Backed Gull (Larus fuscus)

Common in most months; has bred

Present in good numbers on reservoirs in winter, with the odd one or two finding their way to Birkacre.

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus)

Common winter visitor and on passage

Usually present in large numbers in Lower Rivington gull roost

Great Black-backed Gull (larus marinus)

Scarce winter visitor

Usually a few in Lower Rivington gull roost

Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla)

Rare passage migrant

A first winter bird was seen flying low over Will Narr, Anglezarke moor on 24^th October.

Large Gulls Roost (Laridae spp.)

Still several thousand in Lower Rivington gull roost during the winter months

Common Tern (Sterna hirundo)

Scarce passage migrant

Two flew south east over Pilling Lane, Chorley , at 9.00 a m on 1^st July

Black Tern (Chlidonias niger)

Rare passage migrant

One was seen at Lower Rivington reservoir on 18^th September with the possibility of further birds on the following day.

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia)

Common resident

Still present in the town centre and Astley Park.

Stock Dove (Columba oenas)

Uncommon breeding bird

Three were noted on Mawdesley Moss on 11^th June. Pairs bred at sites in the White Coppice and Anglezarke areas

Woodpigeon (Columba palumbus)

Abundant resident and passage migrant

A flock of over 1500 was seen on Mawdesley Moss on 30^th January. A heavy passage of around 2500 birds flying north was observed over Stronstrey Bank on 29^th December. Increasingly visiting garden feeding stations.

Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto)

Common resident

Common and widespread, but a regular victim of Sparrowhawks at garden feeding stations

Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus )

Uncommon summer visitor and passage migrant

The first in Spring was recorded at Bretherton on 23^rd April, then one in the Terraced gardens, Rivington, on 29^th April, and one on Anglezarke Moor on 30^th April. Birds were also recorded at White Coppice on 1^st May, near Slipper Lowe car park, Roddlesworth on 1^st May, and on Croston Moss on 7^th May. As usual adult birds had disappeared by the end of June. No record of juvenile birds was received.

Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

Uncommon resident

One was noted hunting along the River Douglas at Bretherton on 23^rd April. A couple of pairs bred at sites in the west of the area. One was seen at Hoghton on 31^st July

Little Owl (Athene noctua)

Fairly common resident

The following are typical of records received, demonstrating the widespread distribution of the species;-

• One at Stoats Hall Bretherton on 6^th February
• One at Cuerden Valley Park on 9^th March
• Two pairs in Eccleston area on 16^th April
• One at White Coppice on 1^st May
• One at Sheephouse Lane, Rivington on 8^th July
• One at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 15^th July
• One seen flying near Chorley Town Hall in the early morning of 10^th November took the observer by surprise.

Tawny Owl (Strix aluco)

Common resident

A pair was noted at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 9^th May. Recorded at several sites in the Anglezarke and Rivington areas during the breeding season, including an adult with well grown chick on 20^th May. One was seen roosting near Rivington Hall on 11^th November.

Short-Eared Owl (Asio flammeus)

Scarce summer visitor; has bred

One was seen hunting over moorland near Abbey Village on 12^th August

Swift (Apus apus)

Common summer visitor and passage migrant

The first record was at Jepson's Clough, Rivington on 27^th April. Twenty four were recorded over Croston Moss on 21^st May including a pair mating in mid-air. At least ten nest sites were recorded in the Cowling / Eaves Lane area, with another in Darlington Street Coppull. Large numbers were noted over Croston sewage works on the evening of 19^th July. Last records for the year were of birds over Chorley and Brinscall on 6^th August.

Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

Fairly common resident

One was noted at Kem Mill, Whittle on 24^th January. In February birds were recorded at Birkacre on 5^th ,at Anglezarke reservoir on 12^th, at Heapey No. 2 lodge on 13^th, and at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 26^th.

Dispersal in September resulted in sightings at Birkacre, Cuerden, Heapey Lodges, Lower Rivington reservoir and Withnell Fold (reserve and canal). In winter one was at Dean Brook Rivington on 5^th December, and another was at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 10^th

Green Woodpecker (Picus viridis)

Uncommon resident; increasing

Seems to be recolonising former territories after a period of apparent decline. Now widespread east of the M6. Records in the first part of the year included birds at Cuerden on 3^rd & 10^th January, and 6^th February, at Birkacre on 19^th February, at Rivington on 23^rd & 29^th February, and at Heapey Lodges on 27^th February. Birds were recorded in March at Birkacre, Brinscall, Cuerden, Anglezarke, Rivington, Heapey Lodges & White Coppice

One was at White Coppice on 1^st May, and another was at Kem Mill, Whittle on 17^th June. A juvenile was noted near Clog Inn bay, Anglezarke reservoir on 21^st July, another was at Lead Mines Clough on 5^th August, and one by the canal at Withnell Fold on 6^th August. Later in the year it was recorded at Heapey No. 3 lodge on 12^th November.

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopus major)

Common resident

Found in all suitable habitats and a regular at several garden feeding stations

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopus minor)

Uncommon resident

Apparently widespread, especially in woodland along the Yarrow, but very elusive. Records received were as follows:-

• One at Spring Wood, Duxbury on 2^nd January
• One at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 16^th January
• One at Birkacre on 21^st February
• Recorded at Birkacre on 18^th March
• Male in Astley Park woods on 28^th March
• Female in Astley Park Woods on 17^th March
• One at Burgh Hall Wood on 22^nd April
• One in Astley Park on 6^th May
• One in an Adlington garden on 3^rd August
• One seen flying across Well Lane Brinscall into Heather Lea Woods on 19^th October

Skylark (Alauda arvensis)

Common resident and summer visitor

Flocks of between 20 & 30 were noted on Croston & Mawdesley mosses during January. Birds were heard singing at Stoats Hall, Bretherton (6^th), Anglezarke Moor (13^th), Lower Burgh tip area (17^th) & Withnell Fold (26^th) - all February. Described as abundant on Croston moss in April. Up to 7 were recorded singing over Lower Burgh meadow in May, and seven were also recorded on a tetrad in the Eccleston area on 21^st May.

Sand Martin (Riparia riparia)

Fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant

One at Cuerden on 20^th March was the first of the year, then over 100 were observed at Lower Rivington reservoir on 31^st March, and over 200 feeding over the same site on 13^th April. Colonies were present at sites at Eccleston and Whittle. The latest record for the year was of two flying south along the Goyt at White Coppice on 1^st October

Swallow (Hirundo rustica)

Common summer visitor and passage migrant

The first record for the year was of one at Birkacre on 27^th March. Farm buildings in the Brindle area were well used by breeding pairs. In autumn, 500 per hour were noted flying south over Grey Heights on 21^st September, but meanwhile a pair was still feeding young at a site in Whittle on 30^th September. The last record for the year was of two flying south over Euxton on 16^th October

House Martin (Delichon urbica)

Common summer visitor and passage migrant

One at Cuerden on the relatively early date of 30^th March was the first for the year. Tends to nest on older terraced properties rather than modern houses. Over 150 were observed hawking for insects above Withnell Fold 'scrapes' on 6^th August. A pair was still feeding young at a site in Coppull on 30^th September. Last record was of two at Birkacre on 14^th October.

Tree Pipit (Anthus trivialis)

Uncommon summer visitor and passage migrant

The first record for the year was at Rivington on 22^nd April. Individuals were located at seven different sites in the Rivington area during the last week of April, and one was noted at Slipper Lowe car park, Roddlesworth on 26^th April & 19^th May. One was at White Coppice on 1^st May. Recorded at Rivington and Lead Mines Clough in June and July.

Meadow Pipit (Anthus pratensis)

Common resident and passage migrant; scarcer in winter

Present in good numbers on the moors during the breeding season, where it is the main host species for Cuckoo. A post breeding flock of 30 was observed near Jepson's Gate, Anglezarke Moor on 22^nd August

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea)

Common resident by the rivers and reservoirs of the area;

A pair was noted at Lead Mines Clough on 1^st April, another at White Coppice on 6^th April and a pair at Rivington filter beds on 10^th April. A pair with juvenile was seen along the old canal spur at Whittle on 7^th May, and a pair was observed feeding young at Birkacre in mid June. Birds were noted at Kem Mill, Whittle on 17^th June. In July pairs with young were recorded below Yarrow reservoir embankment on 6^th July, and at Heapey Lodges on 23^rd July

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba)

Common resident

A pair with young was noted at White Coppice on 2^nd July. Usually prominent in the Withnell Fold area. Good numbers still seem to be present in the town centre roost. A flock of over 20 was noted in Sheephouse Lane, Rivington, in November.

Dipper (Cinclus cinclus)

Fairly common resident on the faster flowing rivers of the area.

Early year sightings included one at Kem Mill, Whittle on 24^th January, one on the River Yarrow at Limbrick on 25^th January, and one at White Coppice on 13^th April. A pair was noted at a nest site at Hoghton in early May. Evidence of breeding success was provided by sightings of juveniles at Anglezarke on 15^th July, and at Birkacre on 30^th July. One was heard in song at Birkacre on 17^th September.

Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes)

Abundant resident

Found in good numbers just about anywhere, usually betrayed by its surprisingly loud song, which can be heard in most months of the year.

Dunnock (Prunella modularis)

Abundant resident

Could well be as common as the Wren, but often overlooked. Nevertheless it is resident in most gardens and wooded areas.

Robin (Erithacus rubecula)

Abundant resident

Present at everybody's bird table. Not a species that is overlooked, except during its moult in July, when it skulks in the undergrowth, and doesn't sing for the only time of the year.

Black Redstart (Pheonicurus ochruros)

Rare visitor

A juvenile noted on the mast buildings on Winter Hill on 12^th August was the only record.

Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus)

Fairly common summer visitor in the east of the area

The first was at Anglezarke on 6^th April, and then a male at White Coppice on 13^th April, and a further male near Slipper Lowe car park, Roddlesworth, on 26^th April. Three males were singing in the White Coppice/Anglezarke area on 3^rd May. Probably as many as twelve breeding pairs were counted in the Rivington/Anglezarke area in June. A pair was observed with young at Anglezarke on 14^th July

Whinchat (Saxicola rubetra)

Uncommon summer visitor and passage migrant

The first for the year was noted on Anglezarke Moor on 30^th April. One pair bred at Belmont. A male was noted at White Coppice on 24^th August.

Stonechat (Saxicola torquata)

Scarce resident

One was noted on Anglezarke Moor on 16^th & 21^st March. A juvenile at Rivington on 3^rd July, and another on Withnell Moor on 15^th July were evidence of local breeding. Second broods were perhaps indicated by a pair with young in the nest in the Rivington area on 19^th July, and a female carrying food on Anglezarke Moor on 11^th August. Records for later in the year all came from the moors and moorland edge:-

• One on Withnell Moor on 1^st October
• One at White Coppice on 1^st October
• Male and two juveniles on Anglezarke Moor on 8^th October
• Male and two females on Spitlers Edge on 18^th October
• Male & female on Wheelton Moor on 26^th & female on Anglezarke Moor on 30^th, both December.

Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe)

Fairly common passage migrant and scarce summer visitor

The first was on Anglezarke Moor on 21st March. A male was on Croston Moss on 16th April, and three males and a female were on Mawdesley Moss on 22nd April. Another record was received from Croston Moss on 21st May Two juveniles were noted at Lead Mines Clough on 21st August. Birds were observed on Great Hill and Withnell Moor on 17th September

Ring Ouzel (Turdus torquatus)

Scarce passage migrant

One in Terraced Gardens, Rivington on 25^th March was the only Spring record. A male at Belmont on 29^th July is an intriguing record. A female at White Coppice on 30^th September was the only autumn record.

Blackbird (Turdus merula)

Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor;

Prospering in gardens, perhaps more so than anywhere else. Numbers at sites such as Birkacre are supplemented by winter visitors in late autumn.

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)

Winter visitor: often in large numbers

A flock of 100 plus was in trees by High Bullough reservoir on 25^th January, and a flock of 150 was in stubble on Croston Moss on 30^th January. A flock of 50 was in Sheephouse Lane Rivington on 18^th March. 50 on Croston Moss on 16^th April, coincided with a good sized flock in fields at Eccleston on the same date. Both may well have been flocks on passage, making their way back to Scandinavia.

12 flying over Southport Road, Chorley on 29^th September was the first record for second winter period. 100 plus were noted at White Coppice on 4^th November, and 200 plus were observed over Rivington on the same day.

Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos)

Fairly common resident; declining;

Hard to find in winter, but there are usually plenty around once they start singing in February. There were plenty of pairs holding territories in the Rivington area, where a pair in a member's garden successfully fledged young in June. A pair was also seen feeding young on White Coppice cricket pitch.

Redwing (Turdus iliacus)

Winter visitor; often in large numbers;

Flocks in January included 20 at Jack Green, Brindle (9^th ), 40 in Sheephouse Lane, Rivington (23^rd), and 45 in field by Lisieux Hall, Whittle (31^st). A flock of 50 was in Sheephouse Lane Rivington on 18^th March. One in Astley Park on 17^th April was the latest record for the first winter period

First records for second winter period were flocks of 25 and 45 over Rivington on 9^th October. On 14^th October 740 birds in 30 flocks were counted flying south over Anglezarke in a 3 hour period. A flock of 55 was at Birkacre on 4^th November

Mistle Thrush (Turdus viscivorus)

Common resident

A party of 5 was on playing fields in Astley Park on 9^th March. Pairs held territories in many locations during the breeding season. A pair with 4 young was noted near White Coppice SSSI on 14^th June.

Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia)

Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor

The first of the year was at Birkacre on the fairly typical date of 22^nd April, and two more were reeling at the E-shaped pond Bretherton on 23^rd April. A further bird was in Yarrow Valley, Anglezarke Moor on 30^th April. A bird still reeling at Birkacre on 22^nd July, suggested breeding might have occurred.

Sedge Warbler (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus)

Fairly common summer visitor to the limited suitable habitat

The first records for the year were from Croston and Bretherton on 23^rd April. There were several singing birds at Birkacre during May. One was singing on the canal spur at Whittle on 19^th June

Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus)

Scarce summer visitor

The first were two in song at Croston marsh on 30^th April

Lesser Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca)

Scarce summer visitor and passage migrant

Whitethroat (Sylvia communis)

Common summer visitor

The first were at Croston & Eccleston on 23^rd April. In the east of the area, where they tend to be less common, two males were noted along the Goyt at White Coppice on 1^st May. Eight on Croston Moss on 11^th June included a female with food in its bill. One, possibly a juvenile, was noted in Burgh Hall Road on 5^th September.

Garden Warbler (Sylvia borin)

Uncommon summer visitor and passage migrant

The first for the year was at Ellerbeck on 23^rd April. Records were received from several sites in the first week of May. It is likely that some of these are of birds on passage, because records are never as numerous in the subsequent weeks. It was, however recorded at Birkacre throughout May and June. A bird was recorded carrying food at Anglezarke on 14^th July

Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla)

Summer visitor and winter visitor

Birds were recorded at several garden feeding stations during the first winter period. A bird was singing at Birkacre on the relatively early date for a summer visitor of 18^th March, and may, therefore, have been a winter visitor practising its repertoire before departure. However, a bird was present in the same location throughout the breeding season. A family party was noted at Rivington on 6^th July

Wood Warbler (Phylloscopus sibilatrix)

Scarce summer visitor and passage migrant

The first was at Anglezarke on 3^rd May, the species was also recorded in Heather Lea Woods on 6^th May. One was in song near Slipper Lowe car park, Roddlesworth on 19^th May. As usual, there were no late summer records.

Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita)

Common summer visitor and occasional winter visitor

One in song at Birkacre on 17^th March was the first for the year. Records were received during the breeding season from all suitable habitat. This is a species, which is noted for singing at the end of summer just before return migration. Some people believe these to be juveniles learning their song! Records received included one in song at Birkacre on 30^th September and again on 5^th October.

Willow Warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus)

Common summer visitor

The first record in Spring was at Birkacre on 1^st April. Still very common in the White Coppice/Anglezarke areas, but less so in the pasturelands to the north and west of the area. Nine on Croston Moss on 11^th June included one with five fledged young. One was still in song at Birkacre on 12^th August.

Goldcrest (Regulus regulus)

Scarce breeding bird. Common passage migrant and winter visitor in variable numbers.

Common and widespread in both winter periods. Recorded at several sites during the breeding season. A couple of pairs bred in the Rivington area. Records were also received from Birkacre, Duxbury and Withnell Fold.

Spotted Flycatcher (Muscicapa striata)

Scarce summer visitor and passage migrant

Pairs were noted breeding at Anglezarke and at White Coppice during June. A family group was seen at Brookhouse plantation, Anglezarke on 11^th July and 1^st August, and another family group was at Waterman's cottage, Anglezarke on 14^th July. Two were recorded on the canal spur at Whittle on 26^th August. One was recorded at Withnell Fold nature reserve on 3^rd September. On the same day a further three were recorded on the west side of Healey Nab.

Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca)

Scarce summer visitor and passage migrant

The first for the year was a male at Rivington on 23^rd April, followed by one at Lead Mines Clough on 30^th April. Two pairs were located at Anglezarke on 3^rd May, and a pair was seen using a nest box on 6^th May. The latest record for the species was a male in Lead Mines Clough on 5^th June.

Long-Tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus)

Common resident; increasing

Regularly visits garden feeding stations nowadays. At present rate of increase will probably outnumber Blue Tits before very long! Family groups were recorded at many sites from June onwards, including members' gardens.

Marsh Tit Parus palustris)

Very rare

Records of this species in our area are extremely unusual. They do, however, turn up from time to time. One such was at Birkacre on 22^nd January.

Willow Tit (Parus montanus)

Scarce resident

Birds were regular at the Birkacre feeding station in the first winter period. One was recorded near the Woodlands centre in January. Birds were also noted on Mawdesley Moss on 2^nd April, and Croston Moss on 16^th April

Coal Tit (Parus ater)

Common resident and winter visitor

Another regular at garden feeding stations. The species was particularly numerous in the first winter period, less so in the second. One was seen feeding three young at Birkacre on the 15^th June. A family group was noted at Anglezarke on 2^nd July.

Blue Tit (Parus caeruleus)

Abundant resident

Still one of our commonest birds, although my impressions are that it is not as numerous in the garden as it used to be. Family parties were recorded at Birkacre from June onwards.

Great Tit (Parus major)

Very common resident

Still one of our commonest breeding birds. Family parties were recorded at Birkacre from June onwards.

Nuthatch (Sitta europaea)

Fairly common resident; increasing

Breeds in all suitable woodland east of the M6. Four family groups were noted in the Rivington area during June, and further ones at Rivington on 2^nd July, and at Anglezarke on 14^th July

Treecreeper (Certhis familiaris)

Fairly common resident in the area's woodlands

Records were received from all suitable woodlands, including Anglezarke, Birkacre, Cuerden, Duxbury, Rivington, White Coppice and Withnell Fold. A pair was seen with young at Brookhouse Plantation, Anglezarke on 1^st August

Jay (Garrulus glandarius)

Common resident

Present in all suitable woodlands and often outside. Increasingly visiting garden feeding stations. A flock of 13 was noted in Astley Park on 9^th March

Magpie (Pica pica)

Common resident

Everybody's favourite bird! Common and widespread throughout the area particularly in gardens during the breeding season.

Jackdaw (Corvus monedula)

Common resident; increasing

A flock of over 1000 was counted on Mawdesley Moss on 23^rd January. Breeds in large numbers in quarries and around derelict buildings.

Rook (Corvus frugilegus)

Common resident

The rookery at Croston is now by far the largest in the area with about 150 nests and increasing. Others are either holding their own or declining with the one by the parish church now probably extinct.

Carrion Crow (Corvus corone)

Common resident

Probably commonest in the Rivington area where it displaces the rook as the bird to be seen in flocks.

Raven (Corvus corax)

Scarce resident

A pair at Hoghton was seen mobbing a Buzzard on 4^th April. The species was recorded over Anglezarke Moor (13^th September) & Withnell Moor (30^th September). One was recorded being mobbed by crows over Rivington on 4^th October

Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)

Abundant resident and winter visitor

A flock of around 150 was on Mawdesley Moss in mid-March. In July, large flocks at several locations contained good numbers of juveniles.

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)

Abundant resident

Still thought to be declining, as it can be numerous in some localities and absent from others.

Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus)

Fairly common resident

Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs)

Common resident and winter visitor

A post breeding flock of 40 was noted in the Rivington area on 31^st August. A flock of around 200 was in Sheephouse Lane Rivington on 4^th November

Brambling (Fringilla montrifringilla)

Winter visitor in variable numbers

Neither winter period was particularly good this year with 15 in a Belmont garden on 30^th January & 26^th February, being the best early count. Two were in a garden at Astley Village on 6^th & 7^th March, and a male at Belmont on 1^st May was the latest record.

The first back in Autumn were 4 at Belmont on 22^nd October, then 3 were noted in Sheephouse Lane, Rivington in a large Chaffinch flock on 4^th November. Several were in Grey Heights Wood, Anglezarke on 12^th November, and singles were at Rivington on 5^th & 31^st December.

Greenfinch (Carduelis chloris)

Common resident

Regular visitor to garden feeding stations where it usually dominates. A flock of over 40 was on Croston Moss on 23^rd & 30^th January

Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)

Common resident

A flock of 55 were on the canal spur at Whittle on 26^th August. A flock of 100 plus were seen leaving a roost at Birkacre on 17^th September

Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Common winter visitor and passage migrant; scarce resident

A pair was in a Rivington garden on 13^th April. Six pairs bred at Belmont fledging 17 young from first broods. A mixed flock of 14 was with Redpoll at Brinscall on 29^th September, and another mixed flock of 40 was with Redpoll by White Coppice cricket field on the same date. A flock of 50 moved between Brinscall & White Coppice on 1^st October. Another 6 were at Alance Bridge, Yarrow reservoir, on 8^th October, and 16 were in Brook House plantation, Anglezarke, on 16^th October. In November 15 were at Birkacre on 12^th, 20 in Duxbury Woods on 27^th and 25 were in Brook House plantation, Anglezarke, on 28^th. A flock of 40 was below Anglezarke car park on 7^th December, and a flock of 170 was at Belmont on 10^th December.

Linnet (Carduelis cannabina)

Fairly common resident

Three family groups were observed at Rivington on 15^th July. A flock of 40 was in the Rivington area on 31st August

Twite (Carduelis flavirostris)

Very scarce resident / visitor

Three at Belmont reservoir on 4^th March represents the only record for the year.

Redpoll (Carduelis flammea)

Common winter visitor; uncommon resident

A mixed flock of 14 was with Siskin at Brinscall on 29^th September, and a mixed flock of 40 with Siskin was by White Coppice cricket field on the same date. 40 were in alders at Anglezarke car park on 12^th November, and 30 were there on 17^th December

Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) Rare visitor Recorded on Anglezarke Moor on 6th May

Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula)

Fairly common resident

Recorded regularly at Anglezarke, Birkacre, Withnell Fold and White Coppice. A family group was at Leicester Mill Quarry, Anglezarke on 28^th August

Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella)

Fairly common resident

In song on Croston Moss on 18^th March, and two singing on Mawdesley Moss on 2^nd April. The species is relatively common in the western half of the area but evidently declining in the east. Recorded at Kem Mill, Whittle on 17^th June

Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Fairly common resident

Four were noted on Croston Moss on 16^th April. Good numbers were present in Yarrow Valley Park during the breeding season. Recorded at Kem Mill, Whittle on 17^th June. A flock of around 40 over-wintered on Grey Heights. Presumably these were the product of the breeding population in the Healey Nab, Heapey Lodges, White Coppice and Anglezarke areas.

Corn Bunting (Miliaria calandra)

Scarce resident; confined to the mosslands

One was heard in song on Croston Moss on 18^th March, and another four were singing from telegraph wires, also on Croston Moss, on 2^nd April

ESCAPES

Chinese Goose (Anser cygnoides)

Two were regularly seen on Lower Rivington Reservoir throughout the year

LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS FOR BIRD REPORT

Thanks to the following for submitting records for possible inclusion in this report:-

D.Allen, D.Barker, D.Beattie, A.Blacklidge, J.Burgoine, T.Darbyshire, D.Downing, S.Dunstan, K.J.Green, N.Hancock, R.E.Hoyle, A.Johnson, Mrs C.Johnson, Mrs C.Kellett, P.Kirk, G.Leather, D.Lumb, P.Marsden, S.J.Martin, A.Porter, C.Rae, V.G.Rhodes, Mrs.J.Riley, P.Ross, C.Smith, N.Southworth, R.Spencer, A.Stott, D.Tucker, D.Weir, Mrs N.West, and all those who submitted Garden Bird Survey forms. Apologies to anyone whom I may have missed out.

Neil Southworth (Records Secretary)