Dear all,
Having just rejoined the RSPB after some years, I brought my young family along to the Wild Wednesday event. What a fantastic reserve this is, in terms of both the friendly staff and fellow bird watchers I met, and the actual facilities. My kids loved the pond dipping, and I spotted a juvenile Little Grebe (from the Reedbed hide) and then in the distance a Great Crested Grebe. Having recently received the RSPB book as part of joining, I couldn't quite believe I was looking at the beautiful bird that is on the front cover.
I moved down to the Bittern hide (which I understand is a relatively new addition) and was overjoyed when the aforementioned Great Crested Grebe swam into view for a closer look. Does anybody know whether the Grebe's nested on Old Moor, and if so what the approx. breeding numbers for both were? Final question for now - I was not expecting that much activity in the Tree sparrow farm at this time in the year, but when will be the next time it will be busy again. Do they return to their boxes to roost over winter?
I can't wait to return again, hopefully next week for another and longer look. Congratulations to all involved in setting up and maintaining this reserve, and I am looking forward to lots of lapwings and golden plovers in the next few months.
Hobby Fan
What a lovely thing to say!
Thank you from all staff and volunteers at Old Moor...I'm sure they will feel the same about what you have written as I do!
Hi,
About the Great Crested Grebes -I dont know how many bred here this year though I do know that they have as I've seen chicks and juveniles. Great Crested Grebes are one of my favourite birds, they are very beautiful and, although I disagree with the idea terribly and hate the thought of it, I can understand why one would want one of those on their heads! However, this is a cruel practise and I am glad it is now illegal.
Earlier this year, while looking at Red KItes (another awesome bird!) at Harewood House I saw a nest of Great Crested Grebes and saw the parents taking away the egg shells and depositing them in the water. Then the chicks clambered onto the adults back before returning and being brooded by one of the parents while the other adult brought sticks e.t.c to add to the nest.
I dont think (though i'm not positive) that the Tree sparrows roost in boxes during winter.However the hide at the Tree Sparrow farm is great to watch Linnets, Yellowhammers, Tree Sparrows and more farmland birds during the Winter.
Birdman
,Birdman. :)