The 27th of March saw 3 Sand Martins passing through Holywell Pond,one lingered to feed in a cool 10 degrees. The 30th, and an early Swallow was a welcome sight hawking along the lee of hedgerows in the evening. It or another present the following day.
On the pond, 2 pairs of Shoveler, 2 pairs of Gadwall , 7 Little Grebes and a Great Crested Grebe. 4-5 Reed Buntings at feeders and in song, and 12 Tree Sparrows also at feeders.
In the dene on 31st, a warm sun encouraged much singing . 13 Chiffchaffs noted as numbers build, with birds calling and chasing each other. Treecreeper, Jay, 6 Nuthatches, 7 Tree Sparrows, Grey Wagtail, two pairs of Dippers, drumming Great Spotted Woodpeckers, and numerous Great,Blue and Coal Tits were all seen. A noisy pair of Kestrels mating in a tree. 3 Song Thrushes noted too.
Along the nearby waggonway, 2 male Yellowhammers and 2 Reed Buntings and more Chiffchaffs. 2-3 Skylarks singing over the fields.
A.S.Jack
