I spent 10 mins at Ashworth Moor Res on my way home from work yesterday and I saw small group of about 5 waders fly in over the water, at first I thought they were gulls.
They came to rest on the far wall, one on each stone. I noticed that they had long curved bills. My instincts said they must be Curlew but I couldn't definatley confirm as the sun was shining right on them so I couldn't get any colours etc.
Also, I always though Curlew were more solitary. Do they form groups to roost perhaps ?
I am assuming they were Curlew but was a bit unsure.
Also enjoyed watching a pair of Goosander fishing, I never realised how much effort they put into their dives. Great to watch !!
Yes, I think they would have been Curlews. There are reports of up to 12 mentioned on Dave Winnards site (http://www.wildlifeofrochdale.co.uk/).
They tend to appear in flocks at this tme of year before dispersing to their breeding territories where they are more spaced out (without using drugs).
i saw a big flock of curlew in the trough of bowland - maybe around 60 birds. i saw smaller fliocks in of around 10 to 20 - probably separate to the larger flock. amazing to watch.