Wildlife Around Melton

December

December 31st

Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint and Greenshank seen from Dock Lane. (per Suffolk BINS). 

December 27th

Little Stint seen from Dock Lane. (per Suffolk BINS). 

December 24th

12 Waxwings Ransome Road, Woodbridge. 1+ Jack Snipe Kingston Marsh, 1 Greenshank by Kyson Point and 1 Mealy Redpoll with 8 Lesser Redpolls Kyson Woods. (per Suffolk BINS). 

December 23rd

At Melton 1 Kingfisher at Wilford Bridge while on the breached area 1 Greenshank, 10 Snipe, 20+ Knot and an impressive 1000 Lapwings with a further 200 down river.

Little Stint and 1W Mediterranean Gull seen from Dock Lane. (per Suffolk BINS). 

December 11th

The Little Stint along the river between the docks and island with Dunlin and Ringed Plover.

December 8th

At Melton Match Lake an increase of Tufted Ducks to 29, the Grey Heron again on one of the fishing platforms, 1 Cormorant, 2 each of Little and Great Crested Grebes, 1 Kingfisher, Coot, Moorhen and Mallard. Along Brick Kiln Lane, near the rail line in the hedge, a Bullfinch.

Along the Deben a Greenshank by Wilford Bridge, while further along at the island a group of Wigeon, a lone Avocet and a good mixture of gulls including mostly Black-headed, a few Common, a couple of Herring and singles of Lesser Black-backed and Great Black-backed. On the breached area 18 Knot, 1 Snipe and Lapwings while by the docks 2 Rock Pipits.

December 4th

A cycle out along Methersgate Hall Road with large numbers of Rook and Jackdaw in the fields. Along the hedgerow and fields a lovely mixed flock of 25+ Yellowhammer and 20+ Chaffinch.  Long-tailed, Great and Blue Tits moving through the hedge. At Methersgate Quay along the river Dunlin, Redshank, Knot, Avocet, Lapwing, Grey Plover, Teal, Shelduck, Teal, Wigeon, Little Grebe and 2 Brent Geese flew up river. In the woodland/scrub behind Bullfinch, Treecreeper and Jay while in nearby field several hundred Woodpigeons.

December 3rd

The Little Stint again present close in on the foreshore between the docks and the island. 24 Wigeon on the river.

November

November 26th

No sign of the Goldeneye on Melton Match Lakes today but  7 Tufted Ducks, 1 Little Grebe and 2 Great Crested Grebes. Along the Deben the Little Stint was again present along the same stretch of river with some Dunlin.

Little Stint Calidris minuta along the Deben at Melton Nov 2008.

November 24th

On Melton Match Lakes a female Goldeneye was present along with 4 Tufted Ducks, 2 Cormorants, several Mallard, Coot and a Great Crested Grebe.

November 20th

The Little Stint was refound along the river between the docks and the island, along with Dunlin and Ringed Plover. Nearby Grey Plover, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Rock Pipits.

November 18th

At Bromeswell Green woodland a Great Spotted Woodpecker, 6 Siskins and 10 Curlew in the adjacent arable field. Along Bridge Road, Ufford to the bridge over the Deben, Mute Swan, Curlew, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Redwing, Jay, Bullfinch, Siskin and Little Egret.

November 17th

At Melton Match Lake 12 Tufted Duck, Mute Swan, Coot and a Great Crested Grebe. A Greenshank was nearby at Wilford Bridge with some Wigeon on the island and a Rock Pipit along the high tide line. The Dunlin with the deformed bill was again seen by the docks, previously having been seen towards Woodbridge on October 23rd.

November 13th

Along Common Lane, Bromeswell 1 male Bullfinch, 1 male Kestrel hunting on the other side of the river and 5 Siskin flew over. In Bromeswell Green woodland 2 Treecreepers, 1 Lesser Redpoll flew over and at least two flock of Long-tailed, Blue and Great Tits.

November 11th

On the Deben at Melton 1 Greenshank on the breached area and a male Sparrowhawk flew over the sewage works and caused panic in the flock of Long-tailed Tits present.

November 7th

On the Deben at Woodbridge Black-tailed Godwit, Mute Swan, a Kingfisher, Canada Goose, Redshank, Wigeon, Black-headed gull and a Shag that was on the river before flying off down river when flushed by a small motor boat. At Kyson Point the Shag was refound while on Martlesham Creek Dunlin, Grey Plover, Curlew, Avocet and a Spotted Redshank.

November 6th

At Wilford Bridge 1 Greenshank and 2 Little Grebes. The Muscovy Duck that has been around all year is still present on the island.

November 4th

From Deben Mills Sluice 400-500 Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Knot, Grey Plover, 1 Avocet, Kingfisher, Grey Heron and Little Egret.

October

October 27th

In the ditch beyond Melton docks a Water Rail while on the river Dunlin, Knot, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover and a Kingfisher.

October 24th

The juvenile Little Stint again seen from Deben Mills Sluice.

October 23rd

A Dunlin with a deformed bill seen on the river towards Woodbridge.

Dunlin Calidris alpina with a deformed bill on the Deben October 2008.

October 22nd

Along the Deben from Deben Mills Sluice the Little Stint was finally confirmed along with a good selection of waders including 250+ Dunlin, 2 Knot, 20 Ringed Plover,. 5 Grey Plover, Curlew, Redshank, 1 Greenshank, Lapwing, Turnstone, Oystercatcher and Black-tailed Godwit. Also Little Egret, Wigeon, Common Gull, Cormorant, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull. 

October 21st

A Chiffchaff in the scrub at the sewage works along with Goldcrest and Long-tailed Tit. A Greenshank along the river.

October 17th

An early morning visit to the Deben to try and find the Little Stint from the day before. Lots of waders opposite Deben Mills Sluice with the seen stint seen again briefly but looking directly in to the rising sun so ID not confirmed. Redshank, 1 Greenshank 13 Knot, Grey Plover, Black-tailed Godwit and Curlew also present. A male Sparrowhawk flew across the river and spooked the birds.

At lunchtime opposite Melton docks 260+ Redshank, 24 Cormorant in the trees, 5 Little Grebe on the river. Also noted 1 Fieldfare and 1 Stock Dove.

October 16th

On the Deben in the high tide roost opposite Melton docks a probable Little Stint was seen briefly with Dunlin and Ringed Plover.

October 9th

The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper in faded plumage on the Deben again.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea River Deben, Melton.

October 6th

At Melton on the river 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 6 Knot, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Kingfisher, Wigeon, Shelduck, Little Egret. Around the sewage works Long-tailed Tit flock, 2 Chiffchaff and 1 male Blackcap.

 

September

Sept 29th

Lunchtime on the Deben at Melton with lots of waders at roost. Opposite the docks 2 Curlew Sandpipers with Ringed Plover, Turnstone, 13 Knot, Dunlin, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit and Curlew. Further up 1 Common Sandpiper opposite the island and a Kingfisher near Wilford Bridge.

Sept 25th

Another early morning visit with 1 Curlew Sandpiper on the breached area, 2 Little Grebes on the river and 2 Kingfishers around the docks. Further down at the sewage works 1 Cetti's Warbler singing, a Long-tailed Tit flock, Goldcrest, Chiffchaff and several Blackbirds and Song Thrush which are likely to be incoming migrants especially one Song Thrush that was very grey in colour of the Scandinavian race. In the scrub between the docks and sewage works 2 Bullfinch.

At lunchtime 5 juvenile Curlew Sandpipers off Deben Mills sluice.

Sept 23rd

Early morning with 5 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpipers on the island and 1 Kingfisher around the docks.

Sept 22nd

From Deben Mills Sluice 1 juvenile Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Greenshank, 65 Wigeon and 4 Teal.

Sept 19th

2 Curlew Sandpipers still present on the Deben with a Kingfisher and an increase to 24 Wigeon.

Sept 18th

Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton and up the footpath to the left to the patch of grassland with a male Sparrowhawk flying over, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Jay and a Blackcap in brambles singing a sub song. 2 Small Heaths also noted.

At Melton Match Lake 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Great Crested Grebe and some Coot. Along the Deben from Wilford Bridge 2 Small Tortoiseshells and 2 Red Admirals with 2 Common Sandpipers opposite the island, lots of Lapwings and Starlings on the island, 31 Cormorants in the dead trees, 3 Curlew Sandpipers on the breached area, 4 Grey Herons and 7 Little Egrets.

Sept 17th

A cycle ride up to Sutton Hoo with Chiffchaff, House Martin, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3 Siskin, 1 female Kestrel, Meadow Pipit and lots of butterflies with 2 Speckled Woods, 12+ Red Admiral and 10+ Comma on Ivy.

Sept 15th

Early morning along the Deben with 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Greenshank and 1 Spotted Redshank from Deben Mills Sluice.

At lunchtime with high tide opposite Melton Docks, 3 juvenile Curlew Sandpipers with the Dunlin and Ringed Plover with a Kingfisher nearby.

Sept 12th

2 Curlew Sandpipers towards Woodbridge viewed from the river path bench.

Sept 11th

On the Deben just across from Melton docks on the receding tide 1 juvenile Curlew Sandpiper could be found with the Dunlin, Ringed Plovers and Redshank. 1 Common Tern also present along the river.

Juvenile Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea opposite Melton docks.

Sept 10th

In the morning the Kingfisher by Melton docks again while at the sewage works 20+ Chiffchaffs including a juvenile calling and 1 female Blackcap in the scrub.

At lunchtime another search on the river towards Woodbridge where the 2 Curlew Sandpipers were still present, also 1 Greenshank and 1 Common Tern.

Sept 9th

4 Greenshank on the island early morning and 1 Common Sandpiper along the river and a Kingfisher by Melton docks.

Another visit at lunchtime and with the tide very low a search down river towards Woodbridge. A close Turnstone off the sewage works and a couple of Greenshanks and Little Egrets along the river. Past Melton Boat Club, viewed from the bench lots of small waders including Ringed Plover, 2 Grey plover, Dunlin and 2 juvenile Curlew Sandpipers - the fourth year in a row they've been noted along this stretch of river at this time of year. A colour-ringed Black-tailed Godwit - OL RX - was seen nearby and 1 Common Tern.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres on the Deben,

Sept 8th

Early morning and a count of 37 Dunlin on the breached area with 1 Greenshank on the river and a Chiffchaff singing at the sewage works. Later 1 Knot off Deben Mills sluice, 1 Grey Heron in the river, 2 Turtle Doves in trees opposite sewage works with a Kestrel being mobbed by 3 Crows further back.

Sept 3rd

On the Deben 7 Greenshanks, 2 Common Sandpiper and 1 Common Tern.

Sept 2nd

On the Deben 4 Greenshanks, 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Grey Plovers and 1 Common Tern.

Sept 1st

High tide at lunch time on the Deben, with 1 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Redshank, Dunlin, Ringed Plover, 6 Little Egrets, 2 Knot, 1 Grey Heron and a surprise in the form of a Guillemot swimming up a channel on the breached area, on the other side of the river wall past the derelict boat.

Guillemot Uria aalge on the breached area opposite Melton docks.

August

Aug 29th

River Deben, Melton - 29 Cormorants, 6 Little Egrets, 1 Greenshank, 2 Knot, 1 Common Sandpiper, 22 Dunlin and 95+ Ringed Plovers.

Aug 27th

Off Deben Mills Sluice 1 Spotted Redshank, 9 Dunlin, Ringed Plover, 2 Greenshanks, 3 Little Egrets, 1 Kingfisher heard by the pond near Melton Boat Club and 1 Grey Wagtail flew down river.

Aug 26th

River Deben, Melton early morning - 125+ Ringed Plovers, 9 Dunlin, 5 Greenshanks, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern, 1 Little Egret, 1 Muscovy Duck, good numbers of both Redshank and Black-tailed Godwits, Turnstone, Oystercatcher, Curlew and grey Plover.

At lunchtime off Deben Mills sluice 2 Greenshanks, 1 Spotted Redshanks, 2 Common Terns plus along the path 1 Red Admiral, a few Small Whites and a Speckled Wood.

Over Melton village late afternoon 15+ House Martins.

Aug 21st

An early morning visit along the Deben at Melton with Redshank, 2 Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Little Egret, Cormorant, Herring, Black-headed, Common and Great Black-backed Gulls, Oystercatcher, lapwing, Turnstone, Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Curlew and 1 Common Tern. At the sewage works 12 Chiffchaff and 1 female Blackcap in the scrub.

Aug 12th

A build of waders on the Deben with 54 Ringed Plovers, 16 Dunlin, 2 Greenshanks and 8 Common Terns fishing, heading down river.

Aug 11th

In the morning 5 Greenshanks on the Deben at Melton. At lunchtime only 2 Greenshanks could be found, plus 1 Grey Plover still mostly in summer plumage, 2 Common Terns and an adult and a juvenile Great Black-backed Gull, which was attempting to eat a flat fish.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola River Deben, Melton.

Aug 6th

A build of Redshanks on the Deben at Melton with a count of 250. Also present 3 Greenshanks, 5 Little Egrets, 13 Cormorants, the 3 Common Terns and a juvenile Herring Gull with a red ring on it's left leg. On the other side of the river a Green Woodpecker and 1 female Kestrel.

Aug 5th

Off Deben Mills Sluice 6 Dunlin, 3 Greenshank and 1 Common Tern.

Aug 4th

On the Deben at Melton, 13 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpipers, 30+ Lapwing, 2 Dunlin, 26 Ringed Plovers, 11 Turnstone, Redshank, 3 Little Egrets and 3 Common Terns - 2 adult winter and 1 juvenile.

Aug 1st

A hightide visit to the Deben at lunchtime with 4 Common Sandpipers, 5 Greenshanks, 12 Ringed Plovers, 7 Turnstone, 6 Little Egrets, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Common Tern on the island, which then flew down river and 2 Turtle Doves - an adult and a juvenile - on the dead tree opposite the island.

July

July 31st

An early morning visit to the Deben with 5 Common Sandpipers - 2 adults and3 juveniles - on a mud bank by Wilford Bridge. Nearby a Greenshank and 4 Little Egrets along the river. In the scrub by the footpath a family of Reed Warblers were seen anda t the sewage works 1 Turtle Dove with a Chiffchaff singing. Further down at Deben Mills Sluice a Hobby flew across the river towards Sutton Hoo.

Over Melton village lots of Swifts.

At lunchtime another visit with the tide fairly high 19 Ringed Plovers and 6 Turnstones opposite Larkmans boat yard. On the dead trees on the breached area 15 Cormorants and 1 Grey Heron. Other birds noted included a Great Black-backed Gull, 2 Greenshanks, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern and an adult Herring Gull landed on a derelict boat then pounced down on a crab.

July 30th

On the Deben 2 Greenshanks, 2 Little Egrets and 5 Turnstone. Along the footpath butterflies included 3 Peacock, 1 Red Admiral and 2 Gatekeepers.

Along Dock Lane, Melton further butterflies with 1 Comma, 1 Holly Blue, 2 Peacocks, 1 meadow Brown and 2 Small Whites.

July 29th

In the morning an increase of Ringed Plovers to 9, 3 Greenshanks, 1 juvenile Herring Gull with a red ring on the left leg and a metal ring on the right leg on the breached area, with a Turtle Dove in the trees behind Melton Docks. 

Later from Deben Mills Sluice 1 Common Tern, several Black-tailed Godwits, 1 Whimbrel flew down river, Ringed Plover, Redshank, Curlew, 6 Cormorants and Little Egret.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa still in partial summer plumage on the Deben,

July 28th

On the Deben early morning, Common Sandpiper 2, Common Tern 2 and 21 Cormorants on the dead trees on the breached area. Another visit later at lunchtime with Greenshank 2, Little Egret 4, Grey Heron 1 and several Swallows over /along the river near the sewage works.

July 23rd

Along the Deben early morning with 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Terns near the island with 1 Cormorant with outspread wings.

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo on the 'island' R.Deben, Melton.

At lunchtime a female Kestrel was noted flying opposite Deben Mills Sluice then landed on a summerhouse where a juvenile was present. At Wilford Bridge 1 Kingfisher. Along Brick Kiln Lane/Waterhead Lane and the rough grassland to Decoy Farm several butterflies including, Speckled Wood 3, Comma 2, Grayling 1, Meadow Brown 6 including a pair mating, Gatekeeper 4, Small White 2 and Small Heath 6+. 

July 22nd

More Common Terns today at Melton with 7 flying up river past the sewage works, then resting and fishing around the island. They included 1 juvenile plus two in winter plumage. Elsewhere on the river 2 Greenshanks and 2 Common Sandpipers. Insects noted along the footpath included a Cone-head Bush Cricket, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Red Admiral, Small Skipper and a surprise sighting of a male Banded Demoiselle flying along the edge of the rive near between the island and the docks.

July 21st

More returning birds including the 3 Dunlin, 2 Ringed Plover and 3 Turnstone, 1 Greenshank and 100+ Redshanks. 2 Little Egrets, 2 Common Terns and 6 Cormorants on the dead trees. A male Sparrowhawk noted over The Street, Melton.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo River Deben, Melton

July 18th

2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Greenshank and 4 Little Egrets on the Deben.

July 17th

More birds on the Deben today including 6 Little Egrets, an adult and a juvenile Grey Heron, 2 Common Sandpipers, 3 Greenshank, 3 Dunlin, 70+ Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Lapwing, Curlew, Oystercatcher, Crow with 2 young Stock Dove and a Turtle Dove.

July 16th

2 Greenshanks noted on the Deben today.

July 15th

1 Greenshank on the Deben plus 3 Turtle Doves - 2 adults and 1 juvenile opposite the sewage works.

July 11th

Further build up of Redshanks on the Deben at Melton with 40+ now present, along with 2 Greenshank, Curlew, Oystercatcher with 1 young and Mute Swans with 6 cygnets near sewage works. A Turtle Dove flew across the river from nearby. Along the path the first Gatekeepers of the year, 2 Small Tortoiseshells, 1 Meadow Brown and 2 Small Whites.

July 9th

Highlight on the Deben, near Deben Mills Sluice was a Whimbrel - the 9th noted this far up river this year with 8 seen earlier on spring passage. 2 Greenshank along that stretch of river also.

July 8th

An early morning visit to the Deben with 3 Greenshank present.

At lunchtime a cycle ride up Saddlemakers Lane, Melton to the Suffolk Wildlife Trust education centre at Foxburrow Farm. The highlight was a Spotted Flycatcher around the buildings and sheep field with a Bullfinch heard through the trees. Nearby at SWT owned Miller Wood lots of butterflies including 14 Ringlet, 5 Meadow Browns, 2 Large White, 2 Commas, 1 Small White, 1 Small Skipper and 2 Speckled Woods. 

July 7th

1 Common Sandpiper and 1 Greenshank on the Deben at Melton.

July 4th

On the Deben again at Melton with 4 Little Egrets, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Greenshank, 34 Curlew, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Oystercatcher and a Little Ringed Plover, a first for the patch, that flew of high up river.

July 3rd

Another visit to the Deben with the tide very high, the 3 Common Sandpipers again along with Redshank, 10 Curlews, Oystercatcher, Black-tailed Godwit, the Little Egrets had increased to 7 and 1 Grey Heron.

A Red Kite was seen this afternoon at 15.30 low over the approach road to Sutton Hoo, then drifting North towards Melton. (per Margie and David Carter).

July 2nd

A lunchtime to the Deben at Melton with the tide rising and 2 Common Terns noted opposite the docks, while opposite the island on the breached area, 9 Redshank, 2 Greenshanks, 3 Common Sandpipers, 4 Black-tailed Godwits, Lapwing, Curlew, Oystercatcher, 4 Little Egrets, 1 adult and 1 juvenile Grey Heron, lots more Black-headed Gulls than of late including some juveniles. 2 Stock Doves in the trees plus 2 Turtle Doves flew down and a Pied Wagtail with 2 young. In the reedbed ditch by the path a family of Reed Warblers.

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus on a derelict boat on the Deben.

July 1st

On the Deben the Oystercatcher family with 4 young by the island along with Curlew, 14 Redshank and the first returning Greenshank.

At Bromeswell Green woodland, 3 Bullfinch heard and a family of Wrens seen. Nearby at Bromeswell fish ponds, a Kingfisher with good numbers of butterflies including 12 Ringlets, 5 Meadow Browns, a Skipper sp. along with 2 female Black-tailed Skimmers and 3 Azure Damselflies.

June

June 30th

On the Deben at Melton the family of Oystercatchers with 4 young again by the island, more returning waders including Redshank with 8 by the island and another 9 on the breached area along with 2 Lapwings and 5 Curlews, with a further 7 Curlews towards Woodbridge with 16 Black-tailed Godwits and a female Mallard with a duckling. The Shelduck with young opposite the sewage works with a Turtle Dove 'purring' at the works and 2 Stock Doves and 3 Cormorants on the dead trees. A male Pied Wagtail was seen feeding a juvenile on the breached area, with another on a barge and a Kestrel hunting along the path. Butterflies seen included 2 Large Whites, 6 Meadow Browns including a pair mating and 1 Red Admiral.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba on a barge on the Deben.

June 27th

At the Lindos Centre a Miller moth noted. On the Deben Shelduck families including 2 adults with 6 young on the breached area and a further down river a pair with 4 young. 1 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret and Stock Dove also noted.

June 26th

At Bromeswell Green woodland, Chiffchaff, 1 female Sparrowhawk, a family of Wrens, 2 or 3 Bullfinch heard, 1 male Banded Demoiselle, Azure Damselfly including a mating pair, Common Blue damselfly, an Emperor Dragonfly, 4 Meadow Browns plus another mating pair, 1 Ringlet, 1 Red Admiral and 2 Speckled Woods.

Along Common Lane at the reedbed walkway a male Black-tailed Skimmer.

June 25th

On the grassland to Decoy Farm, 8 Small Heaths, 4 Meadow Browns and 1 Cinnabar Moth. Nearby at Melton Match Lake 1 Common Tern. On the Deben a pair of Oystercatchers with 4 young near the island, with 6 Redshank and 8 Lapwing also present.

June 24th

Another visit to the grassland off Saddlemakers Lane with butterflies and plants being the focus. Butterflies included 8+ Meadow Browns, 4+ Small Heaths. 1 Small Copper and 2 Small Skippers. A nice selection of plants were found including 3 fading spikes of Southern Marsh Orchid, Hairy Tare, Orange Hawkweed, Field Pansy, Black Medick, White Clover, Common Cat's-ear, Bird's-foot, Hare's-foot Clover and Common Cudweed. A Nettle-Tap moth was noted on the path up to the grassland.

June 23rd

On the Deben at Melton a few returning waders including 2 Redshank and 6 Lapwing. The pair of Oystercatchers opposite the sewage works with their growing youngster plus 4 Cormorants on the dead trees. In the reed bed by the docks a singing male Reed Bunting and a pair of Turtle Doves were noted flying across the river to the trees behind Melton Docks, where a male was seen and heard well.

A Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur along the river path at Melton

June 20th

A walk along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton and up the footpath to the grassland at the junction to Lodge Farm Lane brought sightings of family parties of Jackdaw and Stock Dove, with Whitethroat and Chiffchaff heard singing in the adjacent woodland. Butterflies noted included 10 Meadow Browns, 8 Small Heath and 1 Common Blue along with 1 Cinnabar Moth.

June 17th

 A brief visit to the river at Melton where 3 Curlews were present on the breached area, along with 1 Little Egret and 4 Cormorants in the dead trees.

Butterflies in the area included a Ringlet at Melton picnic site meadow, 1 Red Admiral and 1 Holly Blue along Waterhead Lane/Brick Kiln Lane bridleway and on the rough grassland path to Decoy Farm a Brown Argus.

June 16th

A cycle ride out to Upper Hollesley Common where Willow Warbler and Yellowhammer were heard singing. Near the Red Lodge car park 2 Crossbills flew in to some pines and a bit later a group of 25 flew over. Along the track a Broad-bodied Chaser patrolled a puddle. Back towards Melton where the footpath leads to Sutton Hoo a Woodlark was singing.

June 12th

At Bromeswell Green woodland a family of Long-tailed Tits, and further along the path in a small sunny patch c.12 male Nemophora degeerella moths 'dancing'.

June 11th

On the Deben towards Woodbridge a Shelduck with 6 ducklings, and the Oystercatchers with one young near the sewage works and a Mallard with 3 ducklings.

June 10th

At the Deben at Ufford several male and female Banded Demoiselles along with 2 Azure Damselflies and a Large Red Damselfly. Nearby at Bromeswell on the farm reservoir 2 Herring Gulls, Cormorant, Great Crested Grebe, a few House Martins, Whitethroat singing in the hedge and Azure Damselfly. Along Common Lane, Bromeswell a Nightingale was singing near towards the reedbed footpath, alos Cuckoo heard and a singing Blackcap.

June 9th

The pair of Oystercatchers on the Deben only had one young present. Nearby a Mute Swan with 7 cygnets swam past. A few Bee Orchids were noted again along the footpath.

June 5th

At Melton Match Lake 3 pairs of great Crested Grebes all with young along with a pair of Little grebes with two young. At Melton Match Lake Twayblade and Ragged Robin in flower. At the Lindos Centre 5 Mullein Moth caterpillars were noted feeding on a Mullein.

June 4th

Along the Deben at Melton, Chifchaff and Reed Warbler singing. A Common Tern flew down river and a pair of Oystercatchers with two young were on the derelict boat. A Green Woodpecker flew across the river from the sewage works. Over the sewage works were low flying Swallows, House Martins and Swifts. On the river 2 Little Egrets, Shelduck and Herring Gull, with 2 Stock Doves and 7 Cormorants on the dead trees.

May

May 19th

An early morning walk between Woodbridge and Melton along the river path with Blackcap, Common Whitethroat, Sedge and Reed Warbler. A Cuckoo flew across the river and a Fox was noted hunting a Rabbit. On the river a juvenile Black Swan near Deben Yacht Club.

May 16th

At Lower Farm, Sutton, Turtle Dove, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Common Whitethroat, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Yellowhammer, 2 Hobby and a Stoat caught a young Rabbit.

May 15th

Quiet on the river with just one Lapwing of note.

A probable male Montagu's Harrier at Sutton (per Suffolk BINS/NA).

May 14th

A Garden Warbler singing in scrub between the docks and the sewage works along the river footpath. 1 Turtle Dove noted in a dead tree.

A visit to Upper Hollesley Common with 1 female Kestrel, 2 Hobby, Woodlark, Yelowhammer, Common Whitethroat, 6 goldfinch, Linnet, Willow Warbler and a male Redstart.

May 13th

The red ringed 2cy Herring Gull on the breached area opposite Melton Docks.

May 12th

Along the Deben between Woodbridge and Melton 3 Ringed plover, Shelduck, Oystercatcher, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Common Tern, Blackcap, Canada Goose and 1 Greenshank.

May 9th

Another visit to Bromeswell Fish Ponds with Azure and Large Red Damselfly, Orange Tip and Mistle Thrush noted by the pub. Up the footpath to the heath opposite the pub Small Copper and Peacock.

Purple Heron over Martlesham Creek. (per C.Holden/Suffolk BINS).

May 8th

Along Common Lane the nesting Jackdaws have young - these could be heard when the adults flew in. Further along a couple of Orange Tips. At Bromeswell Fish Ponds more Orange Tips along with Speckled Woods as well as the first Odonata of the year - several Large Red Damselflies and a few Azure Damselflies.

May 7th

Across the river from the sewage work at Melton singing Turtle Dove and Nightingale along with a male Cuckoo that flew over to the works.

Another visit at lunchtime with 3 Greenshanks and a Grey Plover - all the other waders apart from the resident Oystercatchers have now moved off. 2 Grey Herons noted plus 2 Common Terns on the island. When a further 2 Common Terns came up river towards them, they flew up and forced the second two to fly towards the rail station before heading on up river.

Along Brick Kiln Lane/Waterhead Lane bridleway 5 Orange Tips - 4 male and 1 female, 1 Holly Blue and 6 Speckled Woods.

May 6th

At Sutton Heath good views of Woodlark and Tree Pipit, along with Willow Warbler, Yellowhammer, Chaffinch and a Sparrowhawk flew over.

May 2nd

Down to 6 Greenshanks on the river, with 1 Whimbrel on the island. 1 male Cuckoo heard behind the sewage works before it flew across the river calling.

May 1st

Early morning on the Deben at Melton, 1 Common Sandpiper and an unprecedented 27 Greenshanks. The usual 7 were between the island and Wilford Bridge with a further 20 on the breached area. This is the highest number seen of this species here.

Common Sandpiper a passage migrant on the Deben.

At lunchtime at Sutton Hoo Nightingale, Skylark, Common Whitethroat, Blackcap and 1 Woodlark opposite the main mound, with a further one noted along the road to Sutton Farm. At Wilford Bridge 2 Common Terns flew up river.

April

April 30th

At lunchtime in wet, windy weather lots of Swallows with a few House Martins low over the sewage works and adjacent reeds. 1 Hobby flew up river, while 7 Greenshanks still present on the river.

At Melton Match Lake 8 Tufted Ducks (4 male and 4 female), Swallow, House Martin, 2 Sand Martins, 2 Swifts, 1 Common Tern that flew down river and the male Great Crested Grebe was noted taking a fish to the female on the nest.

April 29th

On the Deben at Melton 7 Greenshanks, 1 Common Sandpiper with singing Lesser Whitethroat and Common Whitethroat past the docks.

April 28th

Bullfinch along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton in the morning.

At Upper Hollesley Common, Common Whitethroat, Woodlark, Yellowhammer, Dartford Warbler and a Wheatear by the Red Lodge cottage.

April 26th

A very early start for the SOG Dawn Chorus field trip to Bromeswell Green woodland and the River Deben. First arrivals heard a Cuckoo. The Nightingale was singing opposite the car park, while in the wood singing Blackcap and Chiffchaff. Long-tailed Tits were present and a Treecreeper was eventually seen well on an Alder trunk. Back at the car park 2 Garden Warblers were singing and also gave very good views for this elusive species. Along Common Lane a Bullfinch was seen and the Cetti's Warbler was heard with it's explosive song.

At Wilford Bridge A Common Sandpiper was present, along with 3 Greenshanks. Further down 2 more Common Sandpipers, 1 Little Egret and a total of 8 Greenshank. In the reed ditch singing a few Reed Warblers, while a male Reed Bunting in the reeds opposite the island. On the river several Shelduck and a Cormorant in one of the dead trees, with Stock Doves present on another. 5 Whimbrel flew over heading up river. Past the docks Redshank, Oystercatcher and Black-tailed Godwit on the river with Common Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler making it 8 warbler species for the morning.

Back along Common Lane the Nightingale showed extremely well singing in some brambles.

April 25th

At Bromeswell Green woodland a Nightingale was singing heartily away while across the road by the car park a Garden Warbler was singing hidden in some bramble. It flew across and then gave excellent views - 10 secs! - whilst singing away. A couple of Chiffchaffs and Goldcrest in the wood while past the second footbridge, 2 Blackcaps were in a singing competition with a Lesser Whitethroat close by. Back along Common Lane a Comon Whitethroat was heard while in the reeds Sedge Warbler. Along the reedbed walkway the Cetti's Warbler eventually gave it's explosive song. Over Wilford Bridge 3 Greenshanks on the river while 3 Reed Warblers in the ditch with another Sedge Warbler by the picnic site.

At lunchtime 1 Bar-tailed Godwit with the Black-tailed Godwits on the breached area. Two of the Black-tailed Godwits with colour rings.

April 24th

At Melton Match Lake the Great Crested Grebes have now built a new nest on the island with the Mute Swan nest nearby. 6 Tufted Ducks also present.

Along the ditch by the side of the river past Wilford Bridge at least 4 singing Sedge Warblers while the Cetti's Warbler could be heard across the river. On the otherside of Wilford Bridge 3 Greenshank and 2 Reed Warblers singing in the ditch, while past the docks Common and Lesser Whitethroat.

At lunchtime the Turtle Dove was present again past the docks while on the island near the picnic site 2 Whimbrel, which later flew down river. On the breached area opposite 2 Ruff and 10 Greenshank. Around the sewage works and reedbeds c.100 Swallows and a few House Martins low down due to the poor weather.

One of the Ruffs Philomachus pugnax still present.

April 23rd

An early morning walk along the river with the first Turtle Dove and Common Whitethroat of the year near the docks. Further along Lesser Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler. 2 Ruffs on the river opposite the docks.

Another visit to Sutton Heath at lunchtime with a superb singing Tree Pipit not far from the sewage works. Also singing Woodlark, Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff.

April 22nd

At Bromeswell Green woodland 2 singing Nightingales along with singing Blackcap and Chiffchaff, with Bullfinch and Jackdaw noted.

Along the reedbed walkway another singing Blackcap along with the Cetti's Warbler. In the ditch on the other side of the river near the Match Lake singing Sedge Warbler. On the other side of the bridge 2 singing Reed Warblers in the ditch with 4 Greenshanks on the river - 3 near Wilford Bridge and the other towards the sewage works. The 2 Ruff were opposite the docks. Past the docks a singing Lesser Whitethroat and another Sedge Warbler.

At lunchtime at hight tide 1 Ruff and 6 Greenshanks were on the breached area along with Curlew, Dunlin and Grey Plover. Later two Ruff and 13 Greenshank were noted (per PK/Suffolk BINS).

April 21st

2 Greenshank and a single Ruff on theDeben at Melton early morning.

At Upper Hollesley Common 2 Mistle Thrush, a flock of 40 Fieldfare, 1 Kestrel hunting and a Dartford Warbler heard singing. At Sutton Heath singing Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler with a pair of Woodlarks seen well.

Along Station Road, Melton a Speckled Wood noted.

April 20th

Ring Ouzel on Upper Hollesley Common (per Suffolk BINS).

April 18th

An increase up to 6 Greenshank noted on the breached area opposite the island with 1 Avocet and several Black-tailed Godwits and Redshank. On the island 1 Common Tern.

April 17th

On the Deben at Melton 3 Greenshank, 2 near Wilford Bridge and the third on the island. Also on the island 1 Ruff and 2 Common Terns, along with Turnstone, Common Gull, Black-headed Gull and Herring Gull. A Cormorant was on a dead tree on the breached area.

Two Common Terns Sterna hirundo on the island, R. Deben, Melton.

On the reedbed walkway signs of possible Mink scat with the Cetti's Warbler singing.

April 16th

By the boating lake in Woodbridge a Willow Warbler singing and further along the river path a Sedge Warbler. A Spotted Redshank was further up river by the tide mill.

A brief visit to Sutton Hoo at lunchtime was quiet with a Swallow flying over the mounds, singing Blackcap and Chiffchaff in the woodland, with skylark and Chaffinch also present. A Comma butterfly noted by the pathway from Bawdsey Road, near Sutton Hoo turn off.

Along the Deben at Melton another singing Blackcap, 2 Greenshank, 2 Ruff by the island, a Spotted Redshank opposite the sewage works sluice and 3 Swallows over the sewage works.

April 15th

A cycle ride out to Upper Hollesley Common with two singing Dartford Warblers including a stunning male that showed longer than usual! A few Woodlarks singing and at least 5 Willow Warblers. A male Sparrowhawk circling high, Goldcrest, Chiffchaff, Stonechat, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chaffinch, Coal Tit and Yellowhammer also present.

April 14th

A Nightingale singing briefly at Bromeswell Green woodland was the first of the year, with a couple of Chiffchaffs and the Cetti's Warbler singing in the reeds by the walkway.

A Ringed Plover opposite the island.

April 11th

Along Common Lane early morning, 3 Bullfinches - 1 male and 2 females. The Cetti's Warbler was singing strongly by the boardwalk.

Later in the day, a Sedge Warbler was feeding in some Dog Rose while singing briefly by the sluice near the sewage works. Opposite the sluice a Spotted Redshank moulting into summer plumage.

Spotted Redshank with an Oystercatcher flying past.

Further up river 1 Ruff was still present opposite the island with 3 Greenshank towards Wilford Bridge.

Greenshank on the Deben near Wilford Bridge.

At Melton Match Lake a female Mallard with 12 ducklings with several Swallows and 2 House Martins flying around and over the horse field adjacent.

Common Sandpiper Dock Lane, Melton (per Suffolk BINS).

April 10th

An early morning along Martlesham Creek with a gorgeous Barn Owl hunting up and down the adjacent grazing meadows with Skylark and Meadow Pipit also noted. On the creek Curlew, Black-headed Gull, Redshank, Mute Swan, Black-tailed godwit, Shelduck, herring Gull, Crow, Oystercatcher and 2 Teal. Along the dykes Moorhen, Mallard, Little Grebe with 2 male and 1 female Reed Buntings in the reeds. At Kyson Point a Cormorant and further towards Woodbridge further a singing Reed Bunting. While listening to the bunting a Sedge Warbler started to sing in some Hawthorn by the dyke.

A pair of Lesser Black-backed Gulls were engaging in courtship display towards Melton near Melton Boat Club.

At lunchtime 1 Snipe opposite the island and 2 Greenshank nearby. A singing Blackcap in the scrub before Wilford Bridge.

April 8th

Highlight of the Spring so far was the finding of two Ruffs with 5 Redshank on the Deben feeding by the island early morning. 3 Little Egrets along the river.

Two Ruffs Philomachus pugnax on the Deben at Melton.

Along Brick Kiln Lane singing Blackcap and Chiffchaff.

At lunchtime 3 Greenshank on the breached area opposite the island, the red colour-ringed Herring Gull and the Cetti's Warbler was singing briefly along the boardwalk.

April 7th

A Swallow flying high up river and a Greenshank by Wilford Bridge early morning.

At lunchtime on the Deben, with high tide lots of birds on the breached area including 211 Black-tailed Godwits, Redshank, Curlew, Turnstone, Dunlin, 1 Great Black-backed Gull, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Herring Gull including the red-ringed 2cy individual, Common Gull, Black-headed Gull, Canada Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Mallard, Pied Wagtail, Starling and 6 Little Egrets.

After submitting the colour-ringed Herring Gull record, Mike Marsh of Landguard Bird Observatory sent the following details:

Red KVL   (metal ring GG77714)

14.07.07   Havergate Island, Suffolk  -  ringed as pullus

No other sightings

Only 7 Herring Gulls were ringed at Havergate in 2007 and this is the third one that has been reported.   The other two were seen at Aldeby tip in southeast Norfolk.

On Melton Match Lake the Great Crested Grebes had not returned to the nest but were displaying near the central island. Coot and Tufted Duck also present with 10 Swallows and 2 House Martins flying low over the lake.

April 4th

An early visit to the Deben with 1 Reed Bunting singing in the reeds opposite the island and a Curlew seen probing the sand on the island and 1 Greenshank up river.

At lunchtime another visit along Common Lane reedbed walkway where 2 Peacocks were noted. 3 species of warbler could be heard including Chiffchaff, Cetti's Warbler and the first Blackcap of the year. A Swallow was seen flying high going up river.

A Small White along Station Road, Melton.

April 3rd

More noisy displaying from the Shelducks on the river at Melton, along with the two Greenshanks and 4 Wigeon near Wilford Bridge. Along Common Lane, Bromeswell, a male and female Bullfinch and a female Sparrowhawk was circling above calling. At Bromeswell Green wood lots of bird singing including; Wren, Robin, Song Thrush, Chaffinch, Dunnock, Great Tit and Chiffchaff, with a further 5 more noted singing around the area/village. Other birds present in the wood included Goldcrest, Treecreeper, Long-tailed Tit and Blue Tit.

Over Melton Match Lake the first Swallow and Sand Martin of the year.

Another visit at lunchtime 1 Small Tortoiseshell along the river path near the picnic site and 2 Greenshanks by the bridge. At Melton Match Lake a bat species was noted hunting over. The nesting Great Crested Grebes were not present on the nest due to tree felling close by. 3 Tufted Duck on the lake and a Peacock was seen near the railway gates.

April 2nd

An early morning visit along the Deben with the two Greenshanks present near Wilford Bridge and a Grey Heron flew down river towards the bridge.

April 1st

Along the Deben at Melton, 4 Chiffchaffs singing as yesterday, 2 Stock Doves in the dead tree opposite the sewage works, 1 male Kestrel hunting along the track past the docks, 1 Green Woodpecker at the sewage works while on the river Redshank, Turnstone, 1 Spotted Redshank opposite sluice, Little Egret, Shelduck, 24 Wigeon near the island and Greenshank near Wilford Bridge.

March

March 31st

Along the reedbed walkway off Common Lane 1 Cetti's Warbler singing, with this time a more fuller song. Nearby a Treecreeper noted carrying nest material into a cavity of a tree. 1 Reed Bunting over the other side of river.

At lunchtime along the Deben 4 Chiffchaffs singing - 1 near the docks, 2 at the sewage works and another in the woods by Wilford Bridge. A pair of Oystercatchers mating opposite the sewage works sluice, 20 Shelduck on the opposite bank from the sewage works calling, head bobbing and some chasing between them. 2 Greenshank again near Wilford Bridge.

In Melton village a Sparrowhawk circling high over Saddlemakers Lane and the first Small Tortoiseshell of the year flew past Melton Chapel bus stop.

March 27th

Lots more waders on the Deben with 100+ Black-tailed Godwits on the breached including the colour-ringed bird, WL RX. 100+ Dunlin, 60+ Redshank, 1 Knot, 7 Grey Plover, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Curlew also present along with Shelduck, Wigeon and 1 Little Egret.

Details from Sigga Beta, Snaefellnes Research Centre.

WL-RX was ringed as a male in E Iceland.  Top line is the day of ringing.  Details below.

03.05.03	Álftafjörður, E Iceland	E Ice
18.08.03	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
20.08.03	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
03.09.03	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
16.09.03	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
17.10.03	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
26.10.03	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
22.04.04	Stour estuary, Essex, E England	E Eng
22.05.05	Setberg, Fellum, Fljótsdalshérað, E Iceland	E Ice
17.12.05	Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
28.01.06	Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
11.02.06	Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
02.05.06	Álftafjörður, E Iceland	E Ice
16.07.06	Snettisham, the Wash estuary, Norfolk, E England	E Eng
17.11.06	Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
31.03.07	Welney, Ouse Washes, Norfolk, E England	E Eng
12.11.07	Heswall Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
14.11.07	Heswall Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
16.11.07	Heswall Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
21.12.07	Thurstaston Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
22.12.07	Thurstaston Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
04.01.08	Thurstaston Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
05.01.08	Thurstaston Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
18.02.08	Heswall Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
19.02.08	Heswall Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
20.02.08	Heswall Shore, Dee Estuary, Cheshire, NW England	NW Eng
13.03.08	River Deben, Deben Estuary, Melton, Suffolk, E England	E Eng

On Melton Match Lake Tufted Duck, 1 female Pochard, 2 pairs of Great Crested Grebes on the second pit, Coot, Mallard and Mute Swan.

March 25th

1 Chiffchaff singing at the sewage works, with 3 Wigeon on the river bank opposite, with a further 35 noted flying around the breached area. Lots of Redshank present, 4 Turnstone, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Cormorant in a dead tree and a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gulls opposite the docks. On the other side of Wilford Bridge on the grazing meadows 20+ Curlew and a pair of Oystercatchers.

March 19th

2 Siskins flew over Saddlemakers Lane, Melton early morning.

At Wilford Bridge 1 male Sparrowhawk was found dead on the road. In Bromeswell Green woodland 2 Treecreepers, Bullfinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Siskin heard flying over.

On the Deben 2 Greenshank near Wilford Bridge, 2 Common Snipe on the island and 1 Cormorant in a dead tree on the breached area.

March 18th

Visiting the reedbed walkway again, the Cetti's Warbler was present with its stuttering song.

At lunchtime, a visit to Sutton Street where there were 6 Shelducks and a pair of Tufted Ducks on Lower Farm reservoir. Further along the river towards Shottisham Creek 20+ Curlews and a Common Snipe on the grazing meadows and 2 Marsh Harriers, male and female, flying over. In the distance over farmland 4 Common Buzzards circling. Another or the same female Marsh Harrier seen again closer on the way back.

March 17th

Along the reedbed walkway by Common Lane 1 Water Rail and 1 Cetti's Warbler, where its song was not coming out right! In the adjacent woodland 6 Jays and further along Common Lane a pair of Bullfinch. A Bromeswell Green woodland 1 Chiffchaff singing, Treecreeper, Goldcrest, 2 Redwing, with 1 male Reed Bunting on wire near the river and a Kestrel hunting over the grazing meadows.

At lunchtime along the Deben at Melton 1 Little Egret, 1 Avocet on the breached area and 2 Greenshanks by Wilford Bridge. The Chiffchaff again by the sewage works.

March 14th

An early morning to the Deben at Wilford Bridge. 1 Greenshank down river with 2 Little Grebes up river close to the bank. Listening to a male Reed Bunting on a bush by the ditch I heard 'pinging' from behind me. Looking across the river two Bearded Tits called again and briefly flew across before disappearing in the reeds.

Further down river 1 Little Egret by the docks and 1 Rock Pipit on the side of the river opposite the sewage work sluice. 1 Chiffchaff singing in the sewage works.

At lunchtime the Spotted Redshank was further down river towards Woodbridge.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus on the Deben towards Woodbridge.

March 13th

1 Spotted Redshank was between the docks and the sewage works on the Deben. On the breached area 100+ Dunlin, 60+ Redshank, 100+ Black-tailed Godwits including a colour ringed bird - WL RX, this is probably the bird seen on October 4th 2007 where only the right leg was seen. Also 1 Greenshank, 3 Grey Plover, Curlew, Turnstone, Oystercatcher, 1 Little Egret, Shelduck and Wigeon. A female Sparrowhawk flew across the river causing panic in the waders and possibly caught a Dunlin as it flew past I could see a bird in its talons. 1 Chiffchaff singing at the sewage works.

March 10th

High tide on the Deben and strong winds a lot of birds were on the breached area saltmarsh viewed from the bench on the footpath. Birds included 2 Greenshank, 1 Snipe, 2 Knot, 100+ Dunlin, 50+ Redshank, Oystercatcher, Shelduck, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Turnstone, Wigeon, 1 Cormorant flew over, 1 Grey Heron flew in to reeds, Canada Goose, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Gull, Black-headed Gull and a large flock of Starlings. At the sewage works the Chiffchaff was singing in brief snatches.

March 7th

At Melton sewage works 1 singing Chiffchaff and 1 Rock Pipit flew in. On the river 1 Little Egret nearby and further up river 2 Little Grebes by the sunken boat near the island. On the island 1 Common Snipe, Turnstone, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Common gull including a 2nd winter, 1 3rd winter and 1 adult Herring Gulls and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Past Wilford Bridge a pair of Oystercatchers on the grazing meadows with a Kestrel hunting over.

Along Waterhead Lane bridleway Green Woodpecker and several Redwings in a copse.

March 6th

An early morning visit to Melton Match Lake with 43 Tufted Ducks, the female Pochard and both Mute Swan and Great Crested Grebes on nests. On the Deben 1 Greenshank near Wilford Bridge, a Rock Pipit near the island, Dunlin, 5 Ringed Plover and 3 Snipe flew up from the side of the river between the island and the docks and 2 Little Grebes by the docks.

Another visit at lunchtime with a superb Grey Wagtail at the sewage works and a singing Chiffchaff in the scrub. Across the river 2 Stock Doves with one sitting in a hole of a dead tree. On the breached area 1 Black-tailed Godwit, large numbers of Redshank and 4 Grey Plover.

March 5th

The local Rooks are back at their rookeries in the village collecting nest material.

Along the river from Wilford Bridge 1 Greenshank and several Wigeon. At Melton Match Lake Tufted Duck, 1 female Pochard and Oystercatcher.

March 3rd

A cycle ride up to Sutton Heath/Common in the hope of seeing the Hen Harrier reported yesterday. No luck on the Harrier but Coal Tit and Chaffinch singing. In the ploughed field opposite the sewage works several Meadow Pipits. Further along the track in the pines a flock of Siskins.

At Wilford Bridge 1 male Teal on the river.

March 2nd

At Sutton Heath a Ring-tailed Hen Harrier seen over the heath mid-morning (per Suffolk BINS).

February

February 27th

Early morning visit with 1 Rock Pipit seen on the walkways of Melton docks, with a Little Grebe on the river nearby. At the sewage works, while watching a Chiffchaff feeding in scrub close to the sluice a second bird started singing further in. They have obviously overwintered here but I had not being able to find them before! The overwintering Greenshank on the river near Wilford Bridge.

February 26th

1 Chiffchaff singing by the sewage works. On the river Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Grey Plover, Lapwing, Redshank, Dunlin, Curlew, Turnstone, Rock Pipit, 1 Little Egret and 2 Stock Doves, the 1st winter Herring Gull with the rings - possibly reads KVL. Research has shown likely to be a bird ringed on Orfordness.

Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis on the Deben near the sewage works at Melton.

February 25th

On the River Deben at Melton, a count of 128 Wigeon, beating the high count made earlier in the month. Also present Curlew, Redshank, Turnstone, Oystercatcher - starting to get vocal, Shelduck, Canada Goose, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Common Gull, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Herring Gull - including a 1st winter with a red ring on the left tarsus and a metal ring on the right tarsus. 5 Rock Pipits by the sewage works.

Again the birds were flighty, but not seen why - possibly the Peregrine again, but was near the island looking into the low sun. A birder walking along the river footpath informed me that he had noted a Peregrine in the dead tress on the breached area recently.

February 19th

Early morning at Bromeswell Green woodland a flock of 30+ Siskin and 2 Lesser Redpolls in the Alders near the footbridge. A pair of Bullfinch along Common Lane.

February 14th

Highlight of this early winter so far on the patch was a Peregrine seen flying around the Deben near the sewage works. On arriving at the river footpath it was obvious the birds present were very nervous and flew up at the slightest movement. Birds included Dunlin, Redshank, Lapwing, Curlew, Shelduck, Wigeon, various gulls and a flock of Starlings, and all were flighty which was unusual, as when a Sparrowhawk flies over only some species will get up. Standing on the path by the sluice near the sewage works all the birds got up again in a panic, when I noted a Peregrine fly across over the breached area, back around and then over the sewage works towards Woodbridge.

February 13th

An early morning walk along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton with lots of singing birds in the first rays of sunlight, including Coal Tit, Song Thrush, Robin and Great Tit. 2 Green Woodpeckers and 2 drumming Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 1 on the corner of Lodge Farm Lane and the other, following the footpath opposite in the oaks by the grassland. Here 3 birds were noted in the top of one tree.

February 12th

A visit to Burkes Wood, Melton with 2 Siskins in a pine tree. Lots of birds singing, with several Great Tit and Chaffinch being very vocal. Also present Long-tailed Tit and a hunting male Sparrowhawk.

February 11th

On the Deben near the island a count 98 Wigeon was made - the highest count noted.

February 8th

An early morning visit to Melton Match Lake produced Tufted Duck and Great Crested Grebe while on the adjacent river by Wilford Bridge 1 Water Rail and 1 Greenshank.

February 7th

At Bromeswell Green woodland Treecreeper, Bullfinch and a female Sparrowhawk. Nearby in trees by the reedbed walkway off Common Lane a Kestrel.

January

January 28th

1 male Sparrowhawk flew through Bromeswell Green woodland where 2 Goldcrests and 1 Treecreeper were noted. 12 Siskin flew over. 1 female Bullfinch along Common Lane.

At Melton Match Lake 1 Pochard, 3 Tufted Ducks, Coot and 2 Great Crested Grebes that showed signs of nest building.

January 25th

At Bromeswell Green woodland a flock of small birds including Long-tailed Tits, Great Tits, Blue Tits, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Treecreepers and another Treecreeper in the Alders in the meadow. A Siskin flew over.

January 24th

At the lunchtime high tide at Melton lots of waders opposite Dock Lane including a few hundred Dunlin, also Knot, Ringed Plover, Turnstone, Oystercatcher, Redshank and 11 Snipe - the highest single count noted of this species.

Further along at the sewage works 10 Rock Pipits were noted, again the highest single count. At one time when the arms of the sewage tank started turning 8 were in a row on one beam. Single Grey and Pied Wagtail were also present.

January 23rd

Along Saddlemakers lane in the morning several birds singing including Song Thrush, Coal Tit, Dunnock and Robin.

At lunchtime 23 Tufted Ducks, 9 Coot and 1 Great Crested Grebe at Melton Match Lakes. Past Sutton Heath 3 Red-legged Partridges, while along the byway to Sutton Hall Farm some Yellowhammers flew up from a stubble field into the hedgerow, eventually around 50 were counted along with 10 Chaffinches. A Skylark was also singing. In the field on the opposite side of the lane, Pied Wagtail and Meadow Pipit with a Goldcrest in the nearby conifers.

Further down towards Lower Farm near the farm reservoir, which had 1 Tufted Duck, a female Merlin flew out of a hedge and landed in a field before flying out to view. From Lower Farm several Curlew and a Kestrel were noted. On returning the Merlin was again in the hedgerow.

Merlin Falco columbarius at Sutton Street January 2008.

January 18th

Along Common Lane, Bromeswell Bullfinch and a flock of c.100 Siskin in the wood that goes towards the Cherry Tree pub.

January 16th

A visit to Burkes Wood, Melton with Great Spotted Woodpecker, Treecreeper, many vocal Great Tits, Blue Tit, Long-tailed Tit and a single Siskin.

January 15th

Along the River Deben, Melton Dunlin, including several near the island, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Curlew, Lapwing, Turnstone, Grey Plover, 1 Avocet, Shelduck, 1 Rock Pipit and 4 Stock Doves in a dead tree on the breached area.

At Melton Match Lake a high count of 51 tufted Ducks, 2 Cormorants, 1 Great Crested Grebe and Coot.

January 11th

A single Siskin was seen in Alders near Cherry Tree pub, Bromeswell while nearby the flock noted on the 9th flew towards Common Lane. Redwing and Bullfinch also noted.

At Melton Match Lake Tufted Duck and 12 Coot.

January 9th

At Melton Match Lake 45 Tufted Ducks.

At Bromeswell Green woodland 1 female Bullfinch, 2 Goldcrests, a flock of 14 Long-tailed Tits and a flock of 30+ Siskins with at least 1 Lesser Redpoll.

January 7th

At Bromeswell Green woodland Goldcrest, Blackbird, Great Tit, Treecreeper, Little Egret and a nice surprise in a Woodcock. Along Common Lane a male Kestrel and a pair of Bullfinches.

January 4th

At Martlesham sewage works 1 Grey Wagtail with several Pied Wagtails and a Reed Bunting. Along Martlesham Creek Lapwing, 1 Comon Snipe, Curlew, Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Moorhen, Redshank and Shelduck with a Great Spotted Woodpecker heard in the woodland on the other side of the creek. From Kyson Point Little Grebe and Turnstone with Cormorant, Golden Plover and Great Black-backed Gull on the far shore. Between Kyson Point and Woodbridge 7 Goldeneye - 4 male and 3 females - while on the grazing meadows Black-tailed Godwit with a Reed Bunting in the reeds and a Song Thrush in the brambles.

At Melton Match Lake 32 Tufted Ducks and 1 Great Crested Grebe. At Bromeswell Green woodland 2 Jays and a Little Egret flew out from the stream. Further along Common Lane, just before the village, in the field to the right c.90 Linnets. In the field by the junction of Summer Lane/Bridge Road a large flock of Fieldfares with some Redwing. Further down to Lower St at the R.Deben crossing in Ufford, a flock of finches in bushes with several Golfinch and Chaffinch and a single male Bullfinch.

January 2nd

On the Deben at Melton there were 400+ Lapwing on the breached area with more further down river towards Woodbridge. Other species included Redshank, Shelduck, Curlew and Black-tailed Godwits. 9 Avocets were present with 7 toward Woodbridge, 2 near the sewage works and a single one near the island. Lots of Dunlin were present all along the river with 200+ near to Woodbridge. A male Sparrowhawk flew across the river towards the sewage works and spooked the waders and gulls. Singles of Lesser Black-backed Gull and Greater Black-backed Gull were mixed with 15+ Herring Gull (more than usual), Common Gull and Black-headed Gull. Further numbers of Black-headed and Common Gulls were near the island. 5 Rock Pipits were around the sewage works and on the adjacent river mud/rocks and 8 Stock Doves were noted on the dead trees on the breached area.

At Melton Match Lake 15 Tufted Ducks, 3 Little Grebes and 4 Mute Swans.