“I can’t believe I was so lucky!” remarked one visitor as they left Old Moor this afternoon.
We had been sharing sightings from the day – a day when once again, there were superb views of bearded tit on the Reedbed Trail. More detail on that in a moment, but first here is today’s summary of sightings…
Visitors to Old Moor today recorded at least six - though some saw twelve - bearded tit, feeding in three small parties from the ‘Bittern Bus Stop’ to the ‘right hand bend’ and ‘beside the Screen’ along the trail.
In all instances, the birds were feeding right beside the path! With the day being so still and sunny, as you can imagine, the views were outstanding.
How the day began by early birder Paul Gould. Thanks Paul.
Also seen in the reedbeds today were a marsh harrier and a kingfisher, with a mistle thrush being spotted in the meadow to the left of the path.
Elsewhere at Old Moor, work continued to improve the car park; to improve the play facilities; and to replace the Family Hide.
Going, going… gone! The result of the reserve team’s work today from Derek Smith. Thanks Derek.
It was a bumper day for goosander and for little egret with both species being seen around the Mere and Wader Scrape.
Last but not least, it was good to get a sighting of snipe today. Look for these around the nearside edges of Wath Ings.
Finally, of interest locally is that the recent scaup was once again reported from Manvers Lake (just up the road from Old Moor) and not one but two peregrine were seen at Broomhill Flash.
And there we have it, another busy day in the Dearne Valley. Until next time.