Great to hear the first Cuckoo of the year from Dove Stone this morning. And amazing to think of this bird's journey from its overwintering grounds in sub-Saharan Africa. Cuckoos are a red listed bird in rapid decline. Take a look at this link for info on just how much this species has declined: http://blx1.bto.org/birdtrends/species.jsp?year=2011&s=cucko
For more info on Cuckoos and the BTOs satellite tracking project check out this link: http://www.bto.org/science/migration/tracking-studies/cuckoo-tracking
Elsewhere around Dove Stone today we've seen Common Sandpipers up on the banks of Chew Reservoir, Red Grouse on the moor tops with Wheatear, Stonechat, Curlew and Meadow Pipits seen from the Chew Road. Around the main trail look out for Swallows along Dove Stone reservoir bank. No sign of those Yellow Wagtails tho' that were spotted earlier in the week...Up at Binn Green look out for Jays, Mistle Thrush, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Siskins, Lesser Redpolls, Brambling, Great, Blue, Coal and Long tailed Tits.