A round Robin up and down the river Irwell. 0900/1200 hrs calm sunny 19 degRees.
Dipper. Not been a great year up to know with fluctuating water levels in April causing feeding problems, no nest site in Strongstry, the pair moved up Buckden Brook but seem to have disappeared again.
Pair at Alderbottom built second nest and now sitting bird being fed on regular basis.
Single in Irwell vale no sign of breeding.
Pair on territory downstream of Ewood Bridge but no sign of breeding.
Grey Wagtail. Four pair overall two pair with built nests and sitting bird.
Pied Wagtail. Pair with nest in Strongstry.
Mallard. Four females with ducklings, 7/12/9/10.
Goosander. Female high up on banking at Alderbottom, possible nest.
Grey Heron. Juvinile bird in Irwell vale on the river.
Common Sandpiper. Pair at a possible nest site where I have never seen them before, will keep an eye out on this spot.
Sand Martin, Swallow, House Martin. I did not go round to EBSW, but good numbers of these over the site.
Swift. First returning birds to nest sites on Bolton road north (PaulG) and three over Alderbottom.
Whitetroat. Two singing Males between Ewood Bridge and Irwell vale and one in Strongstry woods.
Willow Warblers. Many in song all round.
Green Woodpecker. A pair have been very vocal for several days now in Strongstry woods.
Tawny Owl. At least two young fledged, with both Adults, and two other young in a box.
