Derbyshire Delights!

Great Northern Diver - Carsington Water

A day out in Derbyshire, meeting up with birdforum buddy DaveN and visiting Cromford and Carsington Water. The day was, as is usual for me, cool, dull, misty but dry and even a hint of sun late morning.

The day started at Cromford and a hunt for Dipper and Hawfinch. Initially, both were elusive, but two Dippers were eventually located near the road bridge over the River Derwent. The light was very poor (almost dark!) but listening to them call and hearing their song was a fantastic first for me. Hawfinch (lifer) were even more elusive, but our patience eventually paid off with at least six birds being located in the tops of the trees. They gave us a right run around, and were determined not to come close! Other birds of note were Mistle Thrush (2), Goldcrest, Sparrowhawk, Dabchick and at least 76 Pied Wagtails on the meadows.

Dipper - Cromford

Dipper - Cromford

The Dipper pair

On to Carsington Water with Great Northern Diver at the top of my "wanted" list, particularly as they have not shown at Draycote Water this Autum/ Winter. Two of the reported three birds were located with one showing well off the dam, the other being more distant. Other year ticks were male and female Pintail and two Oystercatchers.


Great Northern Divers - Carsington Water

Thanks, Dave for a great day and some super birds - perhaps see you in the spring to try again for Ring Ousel.