Wildlife Around Melton

December

December 7th

At Melton, the river was teeming with bird life and as the tide was coming in more birds flew up river to the breached area. Opposite the docks the Curlew Sandpiper was with some Dunlin and Ringed Plover. On the breached area several hundred Dunlin, 50+ Knot, 250+ Redshank, Turnstone, a few Grey Plover, 100+ Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew which included the great sight of eight that came 'whiffling' in, 15 Avocet that had been off Deben Mills Sluice that flew up river and several Shelduck and Wigeon. The colour-ringed Herring Gull 'KVL', now a third-winter was seen for the first time since the summer on the breached area and in the distance two Gery Heron on the far shore opposite Deben Mills Sluice. Numerous gulls on the river, mainly Black-headed with some Common along with a few Little Grebe mid-channel. Further up river twowards Wilford Bridge two Greenshank.

At the sewage works a Grey Wagtail flew out and a Chiffchaff was seen in scrub and again along the scrub by the path going towards the docks.

At Melton Match Lake a Great Crested Grebe on the first pit, with a female Goldeneye and a female Tufted Duck on the second pit.

December 5th

At Martlesham Creek four Goldeneye including a drake and single Spotted Redshank, Green Sandpiper and Cetti's Warbler. High tide at Melton single Bar-tailed Godwit and Greenshank and at Melton Match Lake female Goldeneye. (per C.Holden).

December 2nd

Singles of Spotted Redshank and Green Sandpiper and three pairs of Goldeneye Martlesham Creek. (per C.Holden).

December 1st

From along the track at the back of Kingston Marsh, Woodbridge Grey Heron, Little Egret, Jay, Green Woodpecker and a Brambling flew over the adjacent field. At Kyson Hill Goldcrest and Coal Tit.

November

November 29th

Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper at Melton. (per C.Holden/Suffolk BINS).

Firecrest Kyson Kill, Woodbridge. (per B.Stone/Suffolk BINS).

November 27th

A visit to Bromeswell Green woods was made, initially all quiet with the only sightings being a Wren and Song Thrush. Further on I heard one maybe two Bullfinch, Treecreeper and a few Siskin flew over. Back along Common Lane a Buzzard was circling over the field the other side of the river before drifting down river towards the wood near Sutton Hoo. A Kestrel was ssen in the tall willlows along the reed bed walk way.

At Dock Lane, Melton Little Stint with seven Ringed Plover close to the path, Rock Pipit near the wall, Common Snipe feeding inside one of the old hulks and Grey Wagtail flew over. (per David and Margie Carter).

November 26th

The Common Seal was ssen for the first time in a while around Melton docks, this time the first when the tide has been so low. Furthe down off Deben Mills Sluice close views of the Curlew Sandpiper and a single Avocet.

At 4.30pm while waiting for a bus on the The Street, Melton in the twilight, a Little Owl flew over, circled then headed towards Saddlemakers Lane.

November 24th

Two Avocets were on the river by the sewage works. A third joined them up river near Melton Springs North Sluice seen by Andy, who sent the photo below. Little Egret feeding along the river and a Great Spotted Woodpecker flew across the river to the sewage works. A female Goldeneye flew down river to Woodbridge past Deben Mills Sluice.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta on the Deben at Melton. (Photo: A.Jeff).

November 23rd

Both Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper seen from Dock Lane, Melton in the afternoon. (per Suffolk BINS).

November 22nd

A Great Northern Diver was present at the mouth of Martlesham Creek at Kyson Point. (per Suffolk BINS). Visiting later no sign of the diver, with Little Grebe and a Kingfisher flew past.

November 21st

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

November 20th

A brief but lovely close view of a Kingfisher that had flown round the island and along the near shore before stopping brief on the bow of a derelict boat. Other birds on the island included 10 Cormorant, Lapwing and a Rock Pipit.

November 19th

Three Greenshank were noted on the far shore opposite Deben Mills Sluice with the tide high. Further up river the Little Stint was again present amongst the Dunlin and Ringed Plover at Melton docks, with a couple of Rock Pipit seen along the river wall. On the breached area at the back a count of 26 Wigeon was made.

November 17th

Amongst the waders flying around at high tide opposite Melton docks the Little Stint was picked out by its small size. Nearby at the picnic site a Brown Rat was noted. At the Lindos Centre, Melton a Red Admiral was seen on a wall in sunny conditions, possibly looking for a place to hibernate.

November 16th

Over the pony field by Brick Kiln Lane, a Common Buzzard flew west in the strong winds. On the Deben, a Little Stint and three Greenshank on the breached area opposite the island.

November 14th

Little Stint again viewable from Dock Lane, Melton. (per Suffolk BINS).

November 13th

A brief visit to the patch in the wind and rain at lunchtime. At Melton Match Lake six Tufed Duck and a Great Crested Grebe. Nearby at Wilford Bridge two Greenshank and further down six Wigeon on the island with a couple of Rock Pipit about.

November 12th

A lot more Dunlin were present on the river, with the tide out, birds were spread out between the sewage works to past Melton Boat Club. A rough count of 400-500 birds was estimated. Other birds seen included two Avocet - the first of the winter, Ringed Plover, Knot, one Greenshank and a winter plumaged Curlew Sandpiper, which like the Little Stint, are likely to be returning birds that over-wintered last year.

November 11th

A Tawny Owl was heard 'hooting' in the parkland by Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.

November 10th

Another venture out for more BTO roving records for the Atlas, this time north of Melton and across to Bredfield. Along the track from St. Audry's Lane a Yellowhammer, while further up a small group of Meadow Pipit. Crossing over the A12 and down to the edge of Bredfield a Bullfinch near the paddocks along the hedge line while the other way as the road joins the A12 a Great Spotted Woodpecker.

On the Deben at Melton, singles of Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper, with five Greenshank and three Mediterranean Gull. (per Suffolk BINS).

November 9th

By Melton docks a Rock Pipit and a Kingfisher. Further down river off Deben Mills Sluice Little Stint, Knot, Greenshank, Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Redshank, Lapwing, Curlew and Wigeon.

November 6th

The Common Seal was again present by the docks, this time on a block on the opposite shore. Birds included the Little Stint, a Comon Snipe, Knot and three Greenshank.

November 5th

A cycle ride up to the southern end of Rendlesham Forest for some BTO roving records. The woods were largely quiet with some Great and Blue Tit flocks, along with Robin, Wren and Chaffinch. A number of Fly Agaric were seen in an area of Birch. On the adjacent fields across the road just before Sutton Heath a large congregation of birds, some on stubble fields with other following the tractor as it turned the soil. Birds included Yellowhammer, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, large flock of Starling, some Stock Dove in amongst the Woodpigeon, Crow, Magpie, Rook, Jackdaw, Pheasant, Black-headed and Common Gull. At Sutton Heath Jay, Treecreper, long-tailed and Coal Tit.

Fly Agaric Amanita musicaria Rendlesham Forest.

November 4th

A brief recce down to river with 3 Greenshank present early morning. At the sewage works a Grey Wagtail and at the docks two Rock Pipit.

Later at lunchtime at Melton Match lakes a female Goldeneye, two Tufted Duck, a Great Crested Grebe and some Coot.

November 2nd

A visit to the river by Melton docks with the tide fairly high. A lot of waders together on the breached area including 250+ Redshank, Dunlin, Lapwing, Ringed Plover, 8 Oystercatcher, a couple of Turnstone, Grey Plover with Black-tailed Godwit and Curlew further over. Whilst scanning the waders a smaller species emerged out of a channel and began to feed on the mud. This turned out to be a Little Stint, quite probably the bird from last winter returning to winter again this year. Something spooked all the waders so the Little Stint was lost to view as they all flew up.

I was then distracted by a noise close in and saw the Common Seal hauling itself up on to a polystyrene block only about 7m away as I looked over the concrete river wall. It was fascinating to watch it so close up and see some of it's behaviour, it often lifted both it's head and hind flippers up, stretching it's flippers out to reveal the webbing at times getting them to form a circle shape. I also noticed it shivering which was surprise, but upon research, they do not shiver under water being capable of diving in cold waters but up on land in the air they can shiver from a cold wind. It yawned afew times allowing views right into it's mouht with it teeth visible. It was still showing well when a fellow birder came along and took some photos. Thanks to Andy for the photos posted below.

 

Common Seal Phoca vitulina at Melton docks. (Photo: A.Jeff).

October

October 28th

A visit along the stretch of the Deben from Melton to Woodbridge and on to Martlesham Creek. On the breached area at Melton a good count of 60 Lapwing. At Woodbridge, on Kingston marsh 4 Meadow Pipit with a couple of Reed Bunting along the dyke. Along Martlesham Creek good numbers of duck including Wigeon, Shelduck and 20+ Teal. Among the general waders 2 Spotted Redshank were found and a Green Sandpiper up near the sluice. At the t-junction of the path, which goes up to the sewage works and the sluice a Cetti's Warbler was singing. A Kingfisher flashed by as I got to the sluice and in the small pool the other side 11 Little Grebe and Little Egret.

October 27th

In the early morning misty conditions c.100 Redwing flew SW over Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.

October 26th

In Melton early morning 12 Fieldfare flew west over the village. Off Deben Mills Sluice several Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Curlew, Wigeon and a number of Black-tailed Godwit including one with colour-rings not noted before - LBN-OLO. This turns out to be a Godwit that was only rung the week before on 17th October at Levington on the River Orwell - thanks to Paul Newton for the information. A Grey Wagtail was seen on the shore near the sewage works, that then flew up in to there and a Rock Pipit again by the docks.

A visit again along the path by the sewage works with a nice flock of Long-tailed Tit present and a Chiffchaff. A Grey Wagtail again flew in to the works and a Common Buzzard flew west overhead being mobbed by a Crow. It again seemed to be heading towards Burkes Wood. On the opposite shore 5 Greenshank were present and 2 vocal Kingfisher in a small tree on the edge of the shore. At least 2 Little Egret present and 36 Wigeon on the breached area, with two other Black-tailed Godwit OL-RX and NY O(F)Y.

At Martlesham Creek 3 Spotted Redshank and a Green Sandpiper. (per C.Holden).

October 22nd

Good numbers of the usual waders opposite the docks on the breached area including 8 Grey Plover and 2 Greenshank. Around the docks 2 Rock Pipit showed well.

October 21st

The Common Seal was seen again swimming up river towards the docks, with a Kingfisher flying up river also. Rock Pipit along the shore and a Grey Heron flew in on to the breached area, where two of the colour-ringed Black-tailed Godwit were present - OL-RX and GR-Y//W.

October 20th

On the opposite shore from Melton docks a count of 84 Dunlin, with more on the breached area along with Ringed Plover and 3 Knot, Turnstone, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Grey Plover, Curlew and 1 Common Sandpiper opposite the island. Up by the island 1 female Teal, Wigeon and a female Goldeneye. On the breached area Little Egret and Grey Heron with a Common Buzzard heading west over the river being mobbed by three Crows. It was last seen over Burkes Wood.

October 18th

3 Buzzard and a Red Kite circling over Porters Wood, Woodbridge viewed from Martlesham Creek. (per Suffolk BINS.)

October 15th

I eventually managed to catch up with Common Seal again, this time as it was on the unusual place of one of the big polystyrene blocks that hold up a pipe from a dredger, opposite the docks. I had been told it had been seen on them before, but was dependent on the state of the tide. It looked fairly comfortable, though it looked up a couple of times when loud noise emanated from the working docks. It turned around before decided to flop of the side into the mud before the tide went to far out and came to the near shore and up on to the mud.

Common Seal Phoca vitulina opposite Melton docks.

October 14th

16 Crossbills over Woodbridge (per Suffolk BINS.)

October 13th

Good numbers of waders againincluding Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank and Curlew. 26 Wigeon were counted off Deben Mills Sluice. While chatting to a birder along the footpath near the docks who had seen the female Teal by the island, we heard one, possibly two Water Rail in the ditch behind.

October 10th

On a Suffolk Ornithologists' Group field trip to Martlesham Creek 2 Green Sandpiper were seen from the sluice in a ditch and Spotted Redshank on the creek. (per A.Gooding.)

October 8th

A good count of 21 Knot, 30+ Dunlin, 2 female Teal on the breached area, a count of 61 Mallard between the docks and sewage works was particularly high. A Chiffchaff was in scrub at the sewage works, a Rock Pipit flew past the docks and up at the island 3 Greenshank and 8 Wigeon.

October 7th

A walk north of Wilford Bridge along the path with 1 Kingfisher, 1 Common Sandpiper that flew first up river then down again presumably trying to find some mud but the tide was too high. a female Stonechat was seen in the reeds on the opposite side while 2 Meadow Pipit were in the field. Migration was noted with 6 Skylark flying up river over the field while 3 Swallow going the other way, also flying over the private fishing lake.

October 5th

A good number and selection of waders opposite the docks with 15 Knot, 200+ Black-tailed Godwit, 120+ Redshank, c.100 Ringed Plover, 20 Dunlin, 12 Turnstone, 30+ Curlew, 3 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 8 Oystercatcher, 2 Grey Plover and 35+ Lapwing. In the scrub alongthe path towards Wilford Bridge a good selection of birds in the drizzly weather with 6+ Song Thrush, 12+ Blackbird, 6+ Blue Tit, 2+ Great Tit, Wren and Robin.

October 2nd

A bright early morning along the Deben with 7 Skylark on the move following the footpath down river. 1 Little Grebe by the docks with good numbers of Ringed Plover and Dunlin opposite.

September 30th

A very smart Bar-tailed Godwit was with a few Black-tailed Godwit by the island. A few returning Meadow Pipit present too.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica at Melton near the island.

September 29th

Wigeon have increased to 26 off Deben Mills Sluice, with Grey Plover, 3 Greenshank and the colour-ringed Black-tailed Godwit OL-RX also noted.

September 28th

A lovely Autumn morning with good numbers of Dunlin and Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper and 5 Greenshank - 3 on the island and 2 opposite the docks.

Sun rise at Melton.

Later on a nice flock of Long-tailed Tit moving through the gorse/bramble between the docks and sewage works with Green Woodpecker, Blackcap and Chiffchaff there. Along the footpath nearby a large moth was noted on a fence post before flying on to a mooring post and found to be Red Underwing. A smart Grey Plover was feeding close in and a Kingfisher flew past.

September 21st

On the dead trees opposite the docks a count of 29 Cormorant was made. 2 Greenshank, Little Egret, 9 Wigeon on the river and a Kingfisher by Deben Mills Sluice. At the sewage works Chiffchaff and Blackcap with a Grey Wagtail noted on the shore nearby.

September 17th

Just the juvenile Curlew Sandpiper present on the Deben with Greenshank and a Kingfisher.

September 15th

Early morning on the Deben with the adult Curlew Sandpiper opposite the docks again, while north of Wilford Bridge, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Greenshank, 3 Snipe and a Kingfisher.

September 14th

A nice surprise in a Common Seal, seen early morning off the sluice near the sewage works. A few Sand Martin flew over and 3 Greenshank were on the river nearby.

In the afternoon the adult Curlew Sandpiper was present opposite the docks with a few Dunlin and Ringed Plover. Further down river by Melton Boat Club a small group of Black-tailed Godwits contained to colour ringed birds, both not noted along the river here before - GW-YX and OL-RX.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa colour-ringed GW-YX on the Deben.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa colour-ringed OL-RX on the Deben.

September 11th

Early morning visit to the Deben and on the shore opposite the docks the adult Curlew Sandpiper had been joined by a juvenile, with the Ringed Plover and Dunlin. A Kingfisher flew across the river and in the distance 2 Greenshank. A video of the juvenile Curlew Sandpiper has now been added to the Video page.

Moulting adult Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea at Melton.

Juvenile and adult Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea at Melton.

September 9th

A brief visit to Bromeswell fish ponds with 1 female Willow Emerald noted. At Wilford Bridge 1 Common Sandpiper, a Common Buzzard being mobbed by Crows in the distance towards Bromeswell village and nearer in more Crows mobbing a Kestrel by Bromeswell Green woodland. On the Deben, at the island a moulting adult Curlew Sandpiper along with a couple of Dunlin and Ringed Plover, 1 Turnstone, Lapwing and Black-tailed Godwit. Opposite the docks 20+ Dunlin, 100+ Ringed Plover, 10+ Turnstone, Little Egret and Curlew.

September 4th

Early morning in the scrub by Melton Spring Farm Sluice North the bushes were alive with small birds in the early morning sunshine, with a male and female Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat including a juvenile, 1 Common Whitethroat, 3+ Chiffchaff, Blue Tit, Greenfinch, Goldcrest, Bullfinch, Dunnock, Chaffinch and Blackbird. Further along at the sewage work singing Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler, 5 Blackcap including 3 male and 2 juveniles and 2 Lesser Whitethroat.

Off Deben Mills Sluice 2 Greenshank and a number of Black-tailed Godwit with GR-Y//W present with a second colour ringed bird BL-O(F)Y.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa colour-ringed NY-O(F)Y by Deben Mills Sluice.

September 2nd

Just past high tide at lunchtime the waders were roosting on the far shore opposite Melton docks, with a count of 122 Ringed Plover, 65 Dunlin, Redshank, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, Turnstone, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Greenshank, Oystercatcher, 25+ Lapwing that flew in after being spooked by a Sparrowhawk. Other birds included 10 Little Egret - 5 on the breached area and 5 in the trees at the back, 10 Cormorant, Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, 1 Grey Heron, Crow, Collared Dove, Mallard and Shelduck.

September 1st

In the morning along the Deben, 4 Common Sandpiper, 2 Greenshank and 30+ Black-tailed Godwit between the docks and sewage works including the colour-ringed bird GR-Y//W. In the afternoon 8 Greenshank, 6 Dunlin and 20+ Ringed Plover opposite the docks.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa colour-ringed GR-Y//W, has been returning for a number of years.

August

August 22nd

Upper Hollesley Common c.30 Crossbills near car park. (per Suffolk BINS/C.Holden).

North of Wilford Bridge by the footpath a Wasp Spider was found. (per C.Holden)

Wasp Spider Argiope bruennichi at Melton. (Photo:C.Holden).

August 18th

Another early morning visit to the Deben opposite the docks with an increase in the smaller waders, where 15 Dunlin and 62 Ringed Plover were counted. A Common Tern and a Common Sandpiper also present.

At lunchtime a walk along the footpath north of Wilford Bridge with 1 Kingfisher, 1 Little Egret and 4 Common Sandpiper along the river, whilst along the track and at the small pond, Long-winged Conehead, Meadow Grasshopper, Roesel's Bush-cricket, Gatekeeper, Painted Lady, Small White, Southern Hawker, Broad-bodied Chaser, Common Darter, Azure Damselfly and 8+ Small Red-eyed Damselfly.

Small Red-eyed Damselfly Erythromma viridulum.

August 17th

Early morning along the Deben opposite Melton docks 13 Dunlin, Ringed Plover, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Greenshank, and 2 Common Tern.

At lunchtime a visit to Bromeswell fishponds to check for the Willow Emerald Damselfly, 4 males and 1 female were noted including a pair in tandem, with the male seen to land on a Sallow branch and the female egg-laying on to the branch lower down. Brown Hawker, Ruddy Darter and Azure Damselfly also present and whilst scanning with binoculars a funny leaf turned out to be an Eyed Hawkmoth caterpillar. 

Eyed Hawkmoth Smerinthus ocellata caterpillar feeding on Sallow at Bromeswell fishponds

August 14th

Along the River Deben, Melton 1 Common Sandpiper and 1 Little Egret by Wilford Bridge, while opposite the docks Greenshank, 26 Ringed Plover and 20 Cormorant.

August 13th

With records of a rare migrant damselfly, Willow Emerald, being seen in Suffolk recently, I decided to visit Bromeswell fish ponds on the chance that they could be present there as the habitat looked good for them. On walking along the first part of the path, there was only a Common Darter and a Migrant Hawker - normally there are several blue sp along here. On reaching the far pond there were more Odonata about including a few pairs of Ruddy Darter in tandem ovipositing. A Migrant Hawker, Brown Hawker, Azure Damselfly and an Emerald Damselfly were also seen. Eventually I spotted a larger green damselfly that was a male Willow Emerald at rest on some willow. I saw more - at least 4 - including a female, with some at rest on adjacent Leylandii. I noted a pair in tandem within some branches of an overhanging willow. On the walk back an Emperor was added to the list of Odonata.

Male Willow Emerald Lestes viridis Bromeswell fish ponds.

August 7th

The Black-tailed Godwit GR - Y//W present this time on the breached area in the morning with Chiffchaff and Lesser Whitethroat at the sewage works.

07.08.09

Deben estuary, Suffolk, E England

Thanks to Jenny Gill at the UEA for the above details on the Black-tailed Godwit.

At lunchtime with the tide fairly high 10 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper, 6 Little Egret and 14 Cormorant.

7 Greenshank and 2 Green Sandpiper at Martlesham Creek. (per C.Holden).

August 6th

Early morning off Deben Mills Sluice a colour-ringed Black-tailed Godwit was noted, this was GR - Y//W, a bird that has been seen on a few previous occasions, the last time in August 2007. Another nice surprise was a Green Sandpiper along the shore near the sewage works, which then flew on to the mudflats and on a small patch of water joined 6 more. This is largest group of Green Sandpiper seen on the patch. 3 Greenshank, 20+ Ringed Plover, 2 Dunlin, 1 Grey Plover and 5 Little Egret also present.

At high tide opposite the docks at lunchtime 2 Grey Heron, 33 Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper, 11 Greenshank - two groups of 6 and 5 flew down river.

August 5th

Around midday a probable Montagu's Harrier was seen flying east over the Lindos Centre, unfortunately I ran to get my bins and by the time I returned it had passed over and I was looking in to the sun so was unable to get a clear view.

Down at the river a good count of Little Egret, with 8 in a tree and 6 on the breached area. Also present 3 Common Sandpiper, Greenshank, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Grey Plover and 30+ Lapwing. Another unidentified large raptor was seen distantly over Sutton Hoo and appeared to have jesses.

August 4th

Along the river between the docks and Woodbridge 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 adult Common Tern flew down river, 3 Greenshank and a Dunlin.

At lunchtime opposite the docks with the tide high 23 Ringed Plover, 1 Dunlin, 10 Little Egret and 6+ Turnstone.

August 3rd

Early morning visit to Deben at Melton with 4 Greenshank, 1 Dunlin, Turnstone, Ringed Plover, Oystercatcher, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew and Little Egret. At the sewage works singing Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler, a juvenile Common Whitethroat and a couple of Jays.

A walk north of Wilford Bridge at lunchtime 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Kingfisher and at the pond singles of Grey Heron and Little Egret. Along the path butterflies included 6+ Small Tortoiseshell, Painted lady, Peacock, Gatekeeper, Small White, Large White, 1 Common Blue and 1 Brown Argus.

July

31st July

Again on the Deben at Melton 7 Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpiper, 2 Ringed Plover and 14 Cormorant. Along Station Road a Grayling was on the road that I moved over to the side.

30th July

2 Greenshank, 50+ Black-tailed Godwit and 3 Little Egret on the Deben at Melton.

29th July

At Upper Hollesley Common 2 Dartford Warbler heard, Yellowhammer with 12+ Grayling and Large White.

28th July

More waders building up on the Deben at Melton with 100+ Redshank, 30+ Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Ringed Plover, 4 Dunlin, 2 Greenshank, Curlew and Oystercatcher with one of the families close along the shore near the sewage works - video viewable of an adult and juvenile under Videos. Also present 4 Little Egret, 10 Cormorant, the first Common Gull seen for a while, an adult bird, while around the sewage works in the scrub several adult and juvenile Chiffchaff. A few Painted Lady along the path.

Redshank Tringa totanus along the Deben.

27th July

On the Deben 3 Ringed Plover, 2 Greenshank and the first returning Dunlin.

24th July

Black Kite seen at Woodbridge air base runway at Sutton Heath end. (per Suffolk BINS).

23rd July

Greenshank, Little Egret, Ringed Plover, 1 Common Sandpiper and Turnstone on the Deben at Melton.

A walk up the river path north of Wilford Bridge with good numbers of butterflies again including 50+ Peacock, 200+ Painted Lady, along with Small White, Large White, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper and Meadow Brown.

21st July

The Deben was at high tide at lunchtime and opposite the docks 1 Ringed Plover, 2 Turnstone, 2 Common Sandpiper, 1 Greenshank, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, 2 Common Tern, 11 Cormorant, a male Kestrel was being mobbed by a Black-headed Gull, 1 adult Grey Heron and a count of 12 Little Egrets, with some up in the trees, this being the highest single count of this species in the area, where numbers build up at this time of year post-breeding.

20th July

A walk North of Wilford Bridge produced a Kingfisher, 2 Common Sandpipers, a male Sparrowhawk carrying food across to Bromeswell Green wood and 2 Little Egrets. The amazing of large numbers of butterflies on the wing was quit a sight to behold and included 100+ Painted Lady, 50+ Small White, 25+ Peacock, 25+ Gatekeeper, 15+ Large White, 10+ Meadow Brown, 2 Small Skipper and 2 Comma. Most were on Creeping Thistle but also Dittander, Hoary Cress and Bramble.

The other side of the bridge on the reached area 50-60 Redshank, 1 Knot in partial summer plumage, 10+ Black-tailed Godwit, 1 juvenile Grey Heron, 2 Common Tern, 2 Cormorant and a red-banded 3cy Herring Gull, that was probably 'KVL'.

July 16th

A young male Pipistrelle Bat was found in the Lindos Centre, having been put outside and a Wildlife Rescue group phoned to come and see it, the bat had unfortunately died.

July 14th

Another early morning walk along the Deben north of the bridge to see if any of the migrant waders were still present. On the first stretch of river a single of both Common Sandpiper and Greenshank along with Lapwing, Oystercatcher and a very skittish Redshank. Further up towards the pond the 2 Green Sandpipers were present again and a Curlew. Several more Black-headed Gulls present including a couple of juveniles.

Juvenile Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus at Melton.

At Martlesham Creek a summer-plumaged Greenshank and a few Black-tailed Godwits. (per C.Holden).

July 10th

Early morning walk along the river north of Wilford Bridge with 2 Green Sandpipers on the river near the pond, nearby a family of Reed Warblers in the reeds and a Sedge Warbler taking food to young. A Greenshank also present near the bridge.

At lunchtime on the breached area opposite the docks 1 Common Sandpiper, 4 Greenshanks, 30+ Redshank, 5 Black-tailed Godwits, 4 Little Egrets, 3 Cormorants and the Turtle Dove present again.

July 8th

At Martlesham Creek a Common Sandpiper near the sluice and a male Bearded Tit in main reedbed behind sewage works. (per C.Holden).

July 7th

Another early morning walk north of Wilford Bridge with the 3 Common Sandpipers and a Greenshank present again along the river, with a Green Sandpiper on the pond.

At lunchtime on the breached area opposite Melton docks 4 Little Egrets, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Greenshank, 5 Black-tailed Godwits, 30+ Curlews, Lapwing and Redshank. A Little Ringed Plover was on the island. Further up river another 4 Little Egrets were on the pond.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius on the island at Melton.

July 6th

Along the river north of Wilford Bridge 3 Common Sandpipers and a very vocal Sedge Warbler in the ditch. A Greenshank the other side of the bridge.

July 2nd

Early morning on the Deben with an influx of 5 Greenshanks on the island, with 14 Curlew, 6+ Redshanks, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Cormorants and the Kestrel hunting again from the cranes of Larkmans Yard. A very vocal Song Thrush by the picnic site and a nice surprise in a Turtle Dove singing opposite the island on one of the dead trees - the first sighting this year on the patch.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos singing Melton picnic site.

July 1st

Along the footpath to Decoy Farm off Waterhead Lane, 3-4 Small Heath, 1 Comma, 6+ Meadow Browns and 2 Small Whites with a Blackcap singing in the nearby copse.

Along Brick Kiln Lane by the rail line a family of Swallows on the wires. On the island at the river a single Common Tern.

A recently fledged Swallow Hirundo rustica on wires along Brick Kiln Lane.

June

June 30th

A walk along the footpath north of Wilford Bridge along the river with singing Reed Bunting along the adjacent ditch, and two families of Reed Warblers in the reeds and a family of Pied Wagtails at the pond. On the grassland Kestrel hunting and a couple of Skylarks singing and large numbers of corvids. Insects were plentiful with Brown Hawker, Broad-bodied Chaser, Common Blue Damselfly, lots of Meadow Browns, 2 Gatekeeper, Small Tortoiseshell, Small and Large White and several Roesel's Bush-crickets could be heard.

June 29th

A count of 6 Little Egrets between Woodbridge and Melton along the Deben. At Melton docks, panic ensued when all the gulls and waders took to the air in alarm, the cause of which was a Red Kite overhead, heading SSW towards Woodbridge. The two Common Terns were present on the island and seemed to be engaging in some courtship. Butterflies noted along the path included Meadow Brown, Painted Lady, Red Admiral and a Small Tortoiseshell.

June 27th

Bee-eater on wires Sutton Heath then drifted north towards Red Lodge. (per Suffolk BINS).

June 26th

Today on the Deben more returning birds with a full summer plumaged Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Redshanks and a few Lapwings on the island. Some breeding success for local birds, Oystercatcher with young by the docks and Shelduck on the river and breached area with young.

June 25th

2 Greenshanks were on the breached area of the Deben at Melton, the first returning birds. Other new birds in, included 9 Curlew and lots more Black-headed Gulls including juveniles. Also 1 Little Egret.

June 24th

Along the reed bed walkway, Common Lane a female Black-tailed Skimmer and Common Blue Damselfly. Nearby at Bromeswell Green woodland several Rutpela maculata were noted with Cuckoo heard singing and Garden Warbler along the lane. At Bromeswell fish ponds another female Black-tailed Skimmer, Ringlet and Meadow Brown.

June 23rd

An early morning visit to Melton Match Lake and 2 Common Terns were seen fishing. These were seen again on the island along the river. 2 Kingfishers were seen near Wilford Bridge and a Kestrel was hunting from the cranes at Larkmans Yard. Sedge and Reed Warblers noted in the ditch.

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Melton.

At lunchtime a cycle ride to Sutton Common with a surprise in a pair of Yellow Wagtails feeding on the grassy area at the car park. Dartford Warbler singing, a female Stonechat, Willow Warbler and Green Woodpecker.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Sutton Common.

June 22nd

On the Deben 2 Little Egrets, 1 Grey Heron and 6 Cormorants on the dead trees. Butterflies along the path included Red Admiral, Painted Lady and Small Tortoiseshell.

June 16th

Along Waterhead Lane, Melton a fledged Jackdaw was walking along the path, flying short distances. It had lost all its head feathers. Further along on the path to Decoy Farm 5 Meadow Browns.

At Melton Match Lake 1 Common Tern and both Coot and Great Crested Grebe with young. Along the reedbed walkway on the other side of the river singing Reed Warbler and Reed Bunting while in the woods singing Blackcap. On the track a male Black-tailed Skimmer and a Drinker Moth caterpillar.

June 15th

Along the Deben 2 Little Egrets, Shelduck with young and an Oystercatcher was seen carrying food to the industrial estate along the Woodbridge- Melton road and landed on the roof. Oystercatchers have been noted nesting on a few of the buildings in the area. Along the footpath there were singing Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler, Common Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat. At the picnic site a Large Skipper and some Meadow Browns were on the wing.

June 13th

Probable Montagu's Harrier Sutton Heath east towards Hollesley. (per Suffolk BINS).

June 12th

At the Lindos Centre, Melton 4 freshly emerged Small Tortoiseshells were seen feeding on some Hebe.

A pair of Redstarts were seen at Sutton Heath. (per Jason Lusher).

June 11th

A pair of Spotted Flycatchers were seen at Foxburrow Farm, Melton.

June 8th

A female Stag Beetle was found on the path in the Turban Centre, Woodbridge. I removed it for safety and placed in to nearby Elmhurst Park.

June 3rd

At Sutton Heath singing Tree Pipit and Woodlark, along with a good number of Yellowhammers. Warblers included Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff and Common Whitethroat. Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers heard. 

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Sutton Heath.

A Little Owl was found dead by the road at the small roundabout near Wilford Bridge.

June 2nd

A cycle ride up to Foxburrow Farm with a sighting of my first Spotted Flycatcher of the year along with Treecreeper and Blackcap. Lots of fledged birds noted in the village in the last few days including Wren, Robin, Blackbird, good numbers of Blue and Great Tit and Coal Tit.

June 1st

2 Common Terns near the island with Reed Warbler and Common Whitethroat heard singing along the footpath. Along the reedbed walkway a Kingfisher heard near the corner while further down Common Lane a male Cuckoo was heard.

May

May 28th

At Sutton Hoo 1 male Cuckoo that was very vocal and flying around. 2 Nightingales were singing along with Yellowhammer and Skylark and several House Martins were nesting at Tranter House. Butterflies seen included Brown Argus, Speckled Wood, Large White, Small Heath and while at the play area a count of 40 Painted Ladys heading NNW in 30 minutes - part of the massive influx that have migrated up from North Africa. 

May 26th

On the Deben a Common Tern on the island with a second bird that flew in and passed a fish to the first. A female Cuckoo was seen flying from the picnic site.

May 22nd

A pair of Grey Wagtails were noted food collecting along the Deben.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea R.Deben, Bromeswell.

May 15th

Just 2 Common Sandpipers today with 2 Common Terns present. Along the reedbed walkway Reed Warbler, Chiffchaff, Peacock and Painted Lady. 

May 14th

An influx of Common Sandpipers with six now present early morning along with a Little Egret. They were still present at lunchtime while on the breached area a Bar-tailed Godwit and an Avocet.

May 13th

An early morning visit to the river with 2 Common Sandpipers and 2 Common Terns. Later on the sandpipers where present near Wilford Bridge while further up river the Egyptian Goose by the pond. 

May 12th

2 Common Sandpiper on the river at Melton.

May 11th

The single Avocet still present on the breached area with 3 Common Terns nearby with one seen later on the island.

May 8th

In the morning 2 Common Sandpipers and 1 Greenshank near Wilford Bridge. A Kingfisher was noted flying up river carrying a fish.

Later in the day at Melton Match Lake 8 Tufted Ducks, 10+ Swifts, 1 Swallow and 15+ House Martins that dispersed rapidly when a Hobby flew across. A single Common Sandpiper was seen by a sluice north of the bridge, with 3 Greenshank on the breached area and a Sparrowhawk flew over the picnic site.

May 6th

Early morning at Melton with 6 Swifts over the village.

At lunchtime a cycle ride to Sutton Heath with Yellowhammer, Stonechat, Woodlark, a pair of Wheatear and Skylark.

May 5th

At Melton Match Lake 5 Swifts, 2 House martins and a Swallow hunting insects in the drizzly weather. On the lake a pair of Tufted Ducks. Along the Deben on the breached area a Common Sandpiper.

May 3rd

An excellent Tawny Pipit found at Sutton Heath in the evening. (per Eddie Marsh/Suffolk BINS).

 

Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris Sutton Heath. Photo:Eddie Marsh.

May 1st

Just 3 Greenshank on the Deben in the morning, with good numbers of warblers by the path between Wilford Bridge and the sewage works with 2+ Common Whitethroats, a Lesser Whitethroat, Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warblers and 3+ Reed Warblers. The Linnets again and were noted maying and nest building.

Linnet Carduelis cannabina Melton.

At lunchtime a visit to Woodbridge with 2 Common Terns along the Deben off Kingston Marsh, with a Whimbrel on the marsh. In the ditch Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and 2-3 Reed Buntings. Small White and Green-veined White along the path. Off Deben Mills Sluice 8 Greenshanks, the highest total this Spring.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Kingston Marsh.

April

April 30th

6 Greenshank on the Deben, with 4 near Wilford Bridge and 2 further down. A couple of singing Common Whitethroats by the path along with a Lesser Whitethroat, Nightingale near the docks and nearby a pair of Linnets and 4 House Sparrows - an uncommon site down by the river.

April 28th

Early morning along the Deben with 3 Greenshank near the bridge, Willow Warbler and Common Whitethroat singing in the scrub by the picnic site and Reed Warbler in the ditch.

At Melton Match Lake 1 male Tufted Duck, a Swallow and a Lesser Whitethroat singing. Nearby along Common Lane, Bromeswell a different male Reed Bunting to the one normally in the area, it has less black on the head, also singing Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, a Nightingale in the woods and a Garden Warbler showing well.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin along Common Lane, Bromeswell.

April 27th

An early morning visit to the Deben with 3 Greenshank, 1 north of Wilford Bridge with two the other side. Reed Warbler singing in the reedy ditch, Lesser Whitethroat in scrub by Avocet House, Nightingale again just past the docks and a cracking pair of Bullfinches in the scrub behind the sluice looking resplendent in the morning sun.

Back again at lunchtime with conditions very windy and showery and the tide quite high, 14 Black-tailed Godwits on the island with 7 Greenshank along the river opposite.

April 25th

On a Suffolk Ornithologists' Group field trip we visited Upper Hollesley Common, with a surprise in a Whimbrel feeding on the grassy area by Red Lodge. Other birds seen were Woodlark, Siskin, Willow Warbler, Stonechat, Yellowhammer, a female Wheatear, 2 Common Buzzards flew over while we watched a couple of Dartford Warblers zip between some heather and small Birch saplings. A sad sight of a squashed Slow Worm by the car park entrance. A walk over to Sutton Heath with distant singing Tree Pipit, a pair of Kestrels and a Hobby.

April 24th

1 Common Snipe in the salt marsh along the river north of Wilford Bridge with a second bird near the dredged pond further up. The nightingale could be heard singing across the river on Common Lane.

April 22nd

Early morning along Common Lane, Bromeswell 1 Nightingale, 2 Blackcaps, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler and 1 Garden Warbler, the first of the year. Along the footpath by Melton picnic site more singing warblers with 1 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Reed Warblers. At the sewage works Sedge Warbler, Blackcap and a Nightingale. From Deben Mills Sluice and increase to 7 Greenshanks along with 1 Turnstone, 1 Avocet, Black-tailed Godwits and Redshanks. A cormorant was in the iver fishing, 2 Green Woodpeckers flew across the river towards Sutton Hoo, where a third Nightingale was heard.

At lunchtime a cycle ride up to Sutton Hoo with Nightingale, Common Whitethroat, Blackcap and Chiffchaff and also present Swallow Speckled Wood and Peacock.

April 21st

At midday a Common Buzzard was seen circling over Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.

Along the Deben, off Deben Mills Sluice, 4 Greenshank, 1 Avocet and Black-tailed Godwits. Blackcap and Chiffchaff singing at the sewage works. Along the footpath good numbers of butterflies including Orange Tip, Small White, Peacock, Speckled Wood and Small Tortoiseshell. At Melton Match Lake 6 Tufted Ducks - 3 male and 3 female, 2 pairs of Great Crested Grebes on Pit 2 with 1 pair on Pit 1.

April 20th

A walk along the river path north of Wilford Bridge to the railway line with a Green Sandpiper on the river with Sedge Warbler, Reed Bunting and Bullfinch in the scrub/reeds. A Skylark was singing nearby and a Swallow over the dredged pond. A Nightingale was heard across the river at Common Lane and a Reed Warbler was singing in reeds by Melton Match Lake.

At lunchtime a Nightingale was singing in scrub just past the docks, a welcome return as it was not present there last year. A Grey Heron was circling high over the reed beds before flying down river.

April 17th

Another early morning visit to Common Lane, Bromeswell with singing Nightingale, Sedge Warbler, Chiffchaff and 2 Blackcaps, one of which was in Bromeswell Green woodland, where there was also flowering Kingcups and Moschatel. A Common Frog was found sitting on the reed bed walk way. On the Deben 3 Greenshank near the island and 2 Swallows flew up river.

Common Frog Rana rana on the reed bed walkway, Bromeswell.

At lunch time 1 Little Egret and a singing Lesser Whitethroat, the first of the year, by Melton Spring Farm Sluice North. Over the sewage works 3 Swallows were accompanied by 3 House Martins. Further down river 4 Greenshanks off Deben Mills Sluice.

April 16th

Along the Deben near Wilford Bridge a Greenshank and a pair of Oystercatchers mating. On the osier field nearby, several Jackdaws and Rooks feeding in the grass. At Melton Match Lake 12 Tufted Ducks and 3 Great Crested Grebes on the second pit. Further down river on the breached area a Great black-blacked Gull was struggling with a large Eel, with another one and a couple of Herring Gulls waiting for scraps.

From Deben Mills Sluice a Greenshank, 1 Knot, several Redshanks and Black-tailed Godwits, 'KVL' Herring Gull, a pheasant heard near the path and 2 Swallows seen over Sutton Hoo. Butterflies seen along the path included 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Peacock, 1 Speckled Wood and lots of Small Whites.

April 14th

Early morning along Common Lane, Bromeswell and the first Nightingale singing with Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Sedge Warbler. In the trees by Melton Match Lake near the path a Willow Warbler, another first for the year. Along the river 1 Little Egret and 1 Greenshank.

At lunchtime a cycle to Sutton Heath with Woodlark, Tree Pipit, a pair of Stonechats and a male and female Kestrel. Nearby at Upper Hollesley Common Yellowhammer, Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, the latter of which was drumming by the lower car park.

April 9th

Along Common Lane 2 Blackcaps singing, one near the car park while one towards the junction. A couple of Chiffchaffs also singing and the first Sedge Warbler of the year near the decoy pond.

Along the Deben off Deben Mills Sluice 1 Greenshank, 6 Knot and 'KVL' Herring Gull.

April 7th

Blackcap singing along Common Lane, Bromeswell.

On the breached area 3 Greenshanks while opposite the docks 6 Knot, 200+ Black-tailed Godwits, 30+ Shelducks and 2 Little Egrets.

April 6th

An early morning walk along the footpath north of Wilford Bridge with a resident pair of Canada Geese in the ditch which has been dredged over winter. This ditch has had all reeds/vegetation removed which has been a breeding area for Sedge Warblers.  Fortunately there are more reeds nearby and the first Sedge Warbler of the year was across the river singing while nearby a male Reed Bunting was proclaiming his territory. The adjacent grazing fields have also changed with osiers having been planted over winter, 2 Red-legged Partridges were present here.

The other side of Wilford Bridge 2 Greenshanks were present while further down towards the sewage works a Little Egret and 8 Wigeon.

Greenshanks Tringa nebularia on the Deben near Wilford Bridge.

2 Siskin flew over Sadlemakers Lane, Melton.

April 5th

Female Goosander on the river between the tide mill and yacht club, Woodbridge. (per Suffolk BINS).

April 3rd

A few Chiffchaffs are now singing around the village. An early morning visit to Melton Match Lake produced the nesting Mute Swan and Great Crested Grebes while in the adjacent field there were a dozen Redwings present with some Blackbirds and a Mistle Thrush.

At lunchtime along the river the Goosander was again present swimming along with it's head in the water looking for fish and sometimes diving. On the channel in the breached an Avocet and several Redshanks, while along the river 2 Greenshanks. A female Sparrowhawk was seen flying over the sewage works. 

April 2nd

A few Wigeon and a Greenshank present on the Deben. The Oystercatchers and Shelduck are now being very vocal. On passing the docks I noted a bird dive down in the shallow water, the tide being quite low. As it emerged I was surprised to find a female Goosander, a new species on the patch for me. After a bit more fishing it came up on to the muddy shore.

Goosander Mergus merganser near Melton docks.

April 1st

Along the track to Sutton Hoo a few Siskin were still present in the pines. 2 Peacocks and a Small Tortoiseshell were also noted along the same track. Down at Wilford Bridge a Swallow, the first of the year on the patch, flew over. Along the river 1 Greenshank and 30+ Wigeon, while along the path 2 Peacocks and a Small Tortoiseshell.

March

March 26th

The Little Stint was again present opposite the docks with some Ringed Plovers in the high tide roost. 3 Greenshank were further up river with Redshank while at the back of the breached area 100+ Black-tailed Godwits and 1 Avocet, with a Cormorant on the dead trees nearby.

March 23rd

2 Greenshanks near Wilford Bridge, one of which has lost some tertial feathers. 2 Snipe were seen feeding along the edge of the island and further down river the Little Stint with Ringed Plover. It was interesting to note on a drier bit of shore a Ringed Plover was seen to extend one foot forward and rapidly tap it on the ground, presumably to get any worms/food/items to rise to the surface, similar to gulls foot paddling. it did this on several occasions.

March 19th

A count of 92 Wigeon on the river near the island, which is the highest count of this species seen on the patch.

March 17th

With the first Spring migrants yesterday, today along the footpath just North of Wilford Bridge was a fine Fieldfare, a reminder of Winter. Along the river a Kingfisher flew past and a Common Snipe and on the other side of the bridge the Greenshank present again. Further down the Little Stint opposite the docks.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris near Wilford Bridge.

At lunchtime a cycle ride up to Sutton Hoo, where it was quiet , though a nice group of Siskins in pines by the footpath near the horse fields and a singing Woodlark. Back down at the river I got a phone call from Craig (thanks) that a Kittiwake was present at Martlesham Creek. A quick cycle ride there to find it still present with some Black-headed Gulls. A nice surprise to see this maritime gull inland, a nice adult winter bird. Spotted Redshank also seen flying past.

A poor record shot of the Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla at Martlesham Creek.

At Woodbridge on the way back a colour banded Turnstone was seen near Deben Boat Club. It has a yellow flag with CCT on it, over a yellow band on the right leg. Sending the details of via Euring I received these details on this bird:

  Colourcode:  YYCCT  Date of catch:  27-8-2008

                        Place of catch:                        Leihoek, Hazepolder, Petten, Netherlands

                        52.45.18 N, 4.39.14 E

          Sightings of this bird:

                 Date(d/m/y)                 Place                 Observer

          29-8-2008                       HONDSBOSSCHE ZEEWERING N. van Brederode

                        524500 N, 43900 E

          30-8-2008                       HONDSBOSSCHE ZEEWERING N. van Brederode

                        524500 N, 43900 E

        19-10-2008 Titchwell beach, Norfolk, Groot  Brittannië       J. (Jan) Toomer

          10-3-2009     Woodbridge, Deben estuary, Suffolk, England         R. Nason

                        520518 N, 11901 E

          15-3-2009     Woodbridge, Deben estuary, Suffolk, England     J. Marchant

                        520518 N, 11901 E

          17-3-2009     Woodbridge, Deben estuary, Suffolk, England        G. Grieco

                        520518 N, 11901 E

 

Many thanks to Nell van Brederode for the information.

March 16th

Signs of forthcoming Spring with Oystercatchers very vocal flying around the river by Wilford Bridge, a Chiffchaff singing across by Melton Match Lake while further up near the recently dredged pond a Green Sandpiper that flew on to the river. Kingfisher also present along that stretch of river and two Siskins flew over. The other side of the bridge and a Greenshank present with a Little Egret nearby and a second Egret down river. A male Bullfinch was seen in the scrub by the path. Opposite the docks the Little Stint was present with a few Ringed Plovers.

Little Stint Calidris minuta on the Deben at Melton.

A visit again at lunchtime with the Little Stint still showing in the same area while down river Black-tailed Godwit, Knot and an Avocet. A Small Tortoiseshell flew across the river path. On the breached area opposite the docks a colour ringed Redshank was found, a possible one from the ringing project on the Orwell - details have been sent off, so more details later.

Details:

It was colour ringed at Levington Lagoon on the 14/10/2008 as an Adult, by Dean Backhouse one of my ringing partners. The combination was Y-L/O-N

 

It was last seen at Woodbridge on the 07/12/2008.

 

It was ringed as part of the Stour & Orwell project.

 

Many thanks to Paul Newton of the Newton & Wright Ringing Partnership.

March 15th

3 Buzzards west over the A12 at Melton at 1020hrs. (per Suffolk BINS).

March 13th

Early morning visit to the Deben with a Greenshank by Wilford Bridge, further along the path 35+ Redwing flew over and past the sewage works the Little Stint was present again.

Visiting again at lunchtime 2 Little Egrets, a pair of Great Black-backed Gulls plus the colour banded KVL Herring Gull at the sewage works.

March 12th

Drake Red-breasted Merganser drifting down river from Dock Lane and a Buzzard over. (per C. Holden)

March 11th

A cycle ride up to Upper Hollesley Common, en route a lot of Siskins in pines adjacent to the road at Sutton Heath Estate. Up on the Common, 2 Woodlarks and 2 Dartford Warblers, a female Sparrowhawk flew over and a pair of Kestrels were seen in a Birch tree.

March 10th

With a very high tide on the Deben at lunchtime, lots of waders including 3 Greenshanks, 3 Snipe and 4 Avocets.

March 9th

An early morning visit to Woodbridge with no sign of the Black Redstart, walking up to Melton the Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper were with some Dunlin and Ringed Plover feeding along the river opposite the docks, with a Greenshank nearby.

A return at lunchtime to Woodbridge and this time the stunning male Black Redstart showed really well sometimes feeding down to a few feet away amongst the boats opposite Deben Yacht Club.

 

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochrurus by Deben Yacht Club, Woodbridge.

March 8th

At Woodbridge the male Black Redstart showing again by Deben Yacht Club, while at Melton Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint and Greenshank. (per Suffolk BINS).

March 7th

Male Black Redstart seen by Deben Yacht Club at 1420hrs. (per Suffolk BINS).

March 6th

6+ Waxwings on Wilford Bridge Road near the school at 0800hrs. (per Suffolk BINS).

March 5th

A single Greenshank on the Deben again while from Deben Mills Sluice a 2nd winter Herring Gull, with a red band with KVL on the left tarsus and a metal ring on the right. This bird was present the previous April and had been ringed on Orfordness.

Details back from Mike Marsh, that this bird had not been recorded since the time when I recorded it last April.

The returning colour banded Herring Gull Larus argentatus on the Deben.

March 3rd

1 Greenshank and 1 Curlew near Wilford Bridge with 54 Wigeon on the river by the island.

Ring-tail Hen Harrier, Woodlark and 23 Crossbills Upper Hollesley Common. (per Suffolk BINS).

March 2nd

With the tide low, less waders on the Deben, though 30 Knot on the breached area and a Greenshank opposite the sewage works. Nearby a pair of Stock Doves in the dead tree inspecting holes. At the sewage works a Chiffchaff, while a lovely Grey Wagtail flew out and down on to a sluice and preened in the sun for over 10 minutes. Further down river 4 Avocet from Deben Mills Sluice.

Ring-tail Hen Harrier and 15 Woodlark, Upper Hollesley Common. (per Suffolk BINS).

March 1st

Greenshank, Curlew Sandpiper and Little Stint in the high tide opposite Dock Lane, Melton. (per Suffolk BINS).

February

February 27th

The female Sparrowhawk was again noted above Saddlemakers Lane, Melton. Along Summer Lane, Bromeswell near the reservoir singing Skylark and 4 Yellowhammers with 2 Oystercatchers, 1 Shelduck and 3 male Tufted Ducks.  In fields along Bridge Road, Ufford 2 Mute Swans with Canada and Greylag Geese. Further along at Lower Street by the bridge a pair of Grey Wagtails.

Along the footpath from Decoy Farm to Melton 20+ Meadow Pipits in the grass fields, Skylark singing and a male Stonechat.

Stonechat Saxicola rubicola near Decoy Farm, Melton.

February 26th

The female Sparrowhawk was again present early morning feeding on the remains of the Woodpigeon. The Stock Dove was again calling in the parkland opposite.

Female Sparrowhawk Accipter nisus with Woodpigeon, Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.

February 25th

A female Sparrowhawk was seen with a Woodpigeon in the grounds of Lindos Centre, Melton. It was flushed and flew off but returned and dragged the pigeon behind some bushes partly out of sight. It was present for a couple of hours plucking the pigeon.

At Melton Match Lake 1 male Pochard and 7 Tufted Ducks - 6 male and 1 female. On the Deben 3 Greenshank, 1 Little Stint and 1 Little Egret in the high tide roost.

February 24th

A visit further down the Deben to Kyson Point and Martlesham Creek with 5 Goldeneyes - 4 males and 1 female near the mouth of the creek. One male was displaying with head tilted back and calling. Also present Teal, Wigeon, Shelduck, Little Grebe and Great Crested Grebe. On Kingston Marshes 1 Little Egret and a few Black-tailed Godwits.

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Martlesham Creek.

February 23rd

At Melton Match Lake 9 Tufted Ducks - 7 males and 2 females along with a pair of displaying Great Crested Grebes. Nearby along the river 1 Greenshank near the island and the Curlew Sandpiper on the breached area, with 400+ Dunlin, 25+ Knot, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Grey Plover, Ringed Plover and 2 Rock Pipits.

February 20th

The Little Stint was again present along the Deben opposite the docks. At the sewage works Goldcrest and Chiffchaff while opposite a Little Egret.

February 12th

A female Kestrel in trees by Sutton Heath car park. At Lower Farm, Sutton Tufted Duck on the reservoir, with Great Spotted Woodpecker, Bullfinch nearby. A Buzzard was seen toward Shottisham but then drifted north behind the farm. A second Buzzard was seen over the trees towards the shore. In the fields nearby several Curlews, Golden Plovers, Lapwings, Redshank and Black-tailed Godwits.

February 11th

A very high tide at Melton at lunchtime, with 40-50 Knot, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Lapwing and Dunlin on the river wall. 15 Avocet on the water on the breached area with Curlew nearby and 5 Snipe flew around. 2 Cormorants and 2 Stock Doves on the dead trees and Rock Pipit on the near shore.

February 9th

9 Waxwings opposite rail station by Girdlestones (pre Sufffolk BINS).

February 6th

The Little Stint was present on the breached area with some Ringed Plover nearby. A Dunlin with a foot missing was seen near the picnic site and c.15 Pied Wagtails were seen at the sewage works. Goldcrests were noted moving through the scrub with 2 feeding at one point on the ground and 1 was seen going on to the wall of a sewage tank before dropping over the edge. 2 Rock Pipits seen by the river.

February 4th

1 Common Buzzard was seen flying NE over the river and then over Bromeswell Green woods.

January

January 31st

A boat trip was taken with the SOG from Ramsholt down to Felixstowe Ferry and back and to Woodbridge then finished back at Ramsholt. An excellent trip with species noted within patch included 4 Common Buzzards at Shottisham Creek with a further one noted flying across the river toward Methersgate. Lots of waders and ducks including Avocet, Grey Plover, Dunlin, Pintail, Wigeon, Teal and 16 Goldeneye between Waldringfield and Woodbridge. Close up views of Great Crested and Little Grebes on the river.

January 28th

Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton 2 Treecreepers, 1 Kestrel and Goldcrest in the hedgerow up past Foxburrow Farm turn off near A12. In the field at Foxburrow Farm by the car park an interesting sight of 25+ Meadow Pipits plus 2 more Treecreepers in an Oak nearby.

January 27th

Red Kite west over Martlesham Creek (per Suffolk BINS).

January 26th

A walk along the footpath from Wildford Bridge to the railway line, with a Reed Bunting in the reeds, 2 Snipe, 2 Redshank and 1 Oystercatcher in the wet fields and a Great Spotted Woodpecker across the river along Common Lane.

On the other side of the bridge a Bullfinch was in the scrub near the picnic site while nearby 2 Rock Pipits and 16 Avocets on the breached area opposite the island. 

January 21st

An early morning walk watching the sun rise along a misty Martlesham Creek with Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Teal, Wigeon and Shelduck. On to the Deben and several Little Grebes present and a male Reed Bunting by the footpath.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus R.Deben footpath, Woodbridge

A male Stock Dove was heard again in the park land on Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.

January 20th

1 Avocet near Wilford Bridge.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta R.Deben near Wilford Bridge.

January 16th

1 Greenshank at Wilford Bridge. In the Alders by the reedbed along the walkway 100+ Siskins and a couple of Lesser Redpolls.

January 15th

A walk from Wilford Bridge to the railway along the footpath with Reed Bunting in the reeds and a Kestrel overhead. In the far grazing meadows 3 Snipe, 5+ Redshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Lapwing, Starlings and Jackdaw.

A male Stock Dove was heard in the parkland on Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.

January 14th

The Curlew Sandpiper was again present on the Deben associating with Dunlin and Ringed Plover. Other waders included Grey Plover, Lapwing, Snipe, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Redshank and 1 Greenshank. Shelduck and Little Grebe on the river.

2 Bearded Tits in the reedbed from Wilford Bridge along walkway. (pers. comms.)

January 13th

At Melton Match Lake 1 male Pochard with 22 Tufted Ducks, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Cormorant and 8 Coot.

The River Deben was experiencing a very high tide so waders were all bunched up on the riverbank. 7 Snipe flew around trying to find somewhere to land as did 8 Avocet that eventually landed in the water and swam next to Shelduck.

January 7th

A cycle ride up to Upper Hollesley Common. En route a Kestrel being mobbed by corvids near Sutton Heath. An excellent ring-tailed Hen Harrier seen close flying across the path. Nearby a Dartford Warbler along with Goldcrest, Robin, Wren, Blackbird, Magpie, Coal Tit and Green Woodpecker. Back along the track a Sparrowhawk flew across the heath.

At Wilford Bridge a brief stop on the north side with Greenshank, Redshank, Curlew, Grey Plover and Lapwing. A dozen Siskin flew over from Common Lane to Alders around the lakes.

January 6th

The Curlew Sandpiper again present between the docks and island (thanks to Eddie M for finding it). A Common Snipe and 1 Avocet also present.

Little Stint seen from Dock Lane in the morning. (per Dave P & Suffolk BINS). 

Hen Harrier Upper Hollesley Common.  (per Suffolk BINS).

January 5th

Similar species to the 2nd on the Deben though an extra in Common Snipe by the derelict boat near the island, but no Greenshank or Knot. A Sparrowhawk flew over causing mayhem. Also Wigeon, Shelduck, Black-headed Gull, Common Gull and Herring Gull.

At Melton Match Lake the first pit was completely frozen while on the 2nd a small patch was ice free with 8 Tufted Ducks - 7 males and 1 female, 1 male Pochard, Coot, Great Crested Grebe and a Grey Heron flew over.

January 2nd

An excellent start to the year with 14 species of wader along the Deben at Melton including, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Little Stint, 1 Greenshank, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, 8 Avocet, Turnstone, Dunlin, Knot, Oystercatcher, Curlew, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover and Lapwing. Good numbers of Wigeon, 3 Teal and Shelduck on the river and a Reed Bunting by the path. 10 Stock Doves on the dead trees on the breached area and a Little Egret nearby and Rock Pipit.

January 1st

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