October - December
December
December 21st
At Melton Match Lakes the male Pochard was again present with the Tufted Ducks. At Melton sewage works 4 Rock Pipits.
December 19th
At Bromeswell Green woodland a male and female Bullfinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Robin, Wren, Fieldfare, Redwing and Blackbird. There were also several Blackbirds along Common Lane.
1 Muntjac was heard calling loudly along Saddlemakers Lane.
December 18th
At Melton sewage works 5 Rock Pipits and 2 Pied Wagtails and a Kestrel flew over.
December 17th
At Melton Match Lake the male Pochard was still present with the Tufted Ducks along with Mute Swan, Great Crested Grebe, 20 Mallards, Coot, Moorhen and 2 Cormorants. At Wilford Bridge in the scrub by the river path several Blackbirds and 4 Redwing.
Further along the river path 1 Greenshank near the docks and a Lapwing on the grassy area feeding on worms that allowed very close approach. 1 Spotted Redshank flew by and landed near the sewage works and 3 Rock Pipits flew out from the sewage works, with 2 landing on the edge of the river and proceeded to bathe.
Lapwing Vanellus vanellus River Deben footpath, Melton
December 15th
A stop off at Melton Match Lake while on a cycle ride to Ramsholt 1 male Pochard, the first of the winter with Tufted Ducks. Along the Bawdsey Road by Ferry Farm turn off a Mistle Thrush in a field and Goldcrest in the conifers.
At Shottisham Creek a Marsh Harrier, a Kestrel and a pale Common Buzzard were seen. Out on the river a Common Seal and Brent Geese that flew over from the fields opposite.
December 13th
A cycle ride around the country lanes looking for species to add to the BTO Bird Atlas. Along Saddlemakers Lane a flock of 10 Long-tailed Tits, Blue Tit, Robin and a Great Spotted Woodpecker and on the corner of Lodge Farm Lane Blackbird and 2 Goldcrests. Further along the lane Mistle Thrush and Dunnock while on St,Audry's Sports Ground 3 Common Gulls and Black-headed Gull. Down St.Audry's Lane a couple of Pheasants and many corvids. Across to Waterhead Lane Goldcrest and eventually down to Melton Match Lakes where there were 30 Tufted Ducks and 2 Great Crested Grebes.
December 12th
Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton in the hedgerows Chaffinch, Robin with Coal Tit and Magpie in the conifers.
In the woodland behind the breached area a Green Woodpecker, while on the river 3 Cormorants, 2 Greenshank, Dunlin, Knot, Ringed Plover, 6 Grey Plover, Turnstone, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Gull, Canada Goose, Shelduck, Little Grebe and 3 Common Snipe on the island. In the scrub by the picnic site 4 Redwing and a Blackbird feeding in the apple tree. On the other side of Wilford Bridge a Kingfisher flew up river.
December 11th
2 Grey Herons on the far bank opposite the sewage works and 5 Avocets on the breached area.
December 10th
A count of 10 Little Grebes along the Deben from the sewage works to Wilford Bridge. On Melton Match Lake 22 Tufted Duck, 2 Great Crested Grebes, a further 2 Little Grebes, Coot and Mallard.
December 7th
Large numbers of waders on the Deben at Melton with 1000+ Dunlin, 170+ Knot along with Redshank, Turnstone, Lapwing, Curlew, Ringed Plover, Black-tailed Godwit as well as Shelduck, Wigeon and Little Egret. Meadow Pipits and Pied Wagtails at the sewage works and at the sluice nearby 2 Rock Pipits.
A Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis by a sluice on the R.Deben.
December 3rd
A female Sparrowhawk flew over Woodbridge cemetery.
On the Deben on the outskirts of Woodbridge Turnstone, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Dunlin, Knot, Herring Gull, Black-headed Gull and Shelduck.
Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton Greenfinch and Blue Tit.
November
November 30th
At the sewage works at Melton 1 Grey Wagtail and Meadow Pipits. On the river nearby Redshank, Little Egret and a Carrion Crow.
November 29th
1 Greenshank near Wilford Bridge. At Melton Match Lake 22 Tufted Ducks, Mute Swan, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Little Grebe, Coot, Moorhen and in the hedgerow Jay and Goldfinch.
November 28th
A cycle ride out to Sutton with Woodpigeon, Pied Wagtail, rook, Crow, Jackdaw, Lapwing and Black-headed Gull in the fields around Sutton Heath. From Sutton down Methersgate Hall Drive Blackbird, Chaffinch, Magpie, Long-tailed Tit and Blue Tit. Taking the bridleway on the right, a Kestrel, Redwing, Yellowhammer, Curlew, a Cormorant flew off the farm reservoir, with Goldcrest, Blue Tit, Coal Tit and Jay in the adjacent wood.
November 27th
Again large numbers of waders with the high tide forcing many to go onto the island. Similar species as the other day but with 12 Avocets - the highest count this far up river, 2 Snipe on the island and a Golden Plover which flew down river, the first time noted within this area. 2 Redwings were in scrub by the picnic area.
At Melton Match Lake the Tufted Ducks increased to 22, with a Cormorant, Mute Swan, Coot, Moorhen and a Kestrel along Brick Kiln Lane.
November 23rd
Large numbers of waders on the breached area and along the river at Melton, with c.550 Dunlin, 52 Knot, 6 Avocet, Curlew, Lapwing Redshank, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover, Black-tailed Godwit and 3 Greenshank. Also Wigeon, Shelduck, Black-headed gull, Herring Gull, 1 Great Black-backed Gull, 6 Cormorants on a dead tree along with a Stock Dove and by the docks 1 Little Egret and 2 Little Grebes.
November 21st
200+ Lapwing on the breached area opposite Melton docks and 54 Wigeon further up river opposite the island. At Melton Match Lake 15 Tufted Duck, 2 Great Crested Grebes, Mute Swan and Mallard.
November 16th
Along Common Lane, Bromeswell a male and female Bullfinch in the hedgerow and a female Sparrowhawk hunting over the nearby woodland. At the car park at Bromeswell Green, a juvenile Kestrel was hunting along the riverbank before alighting on a telegraph wire. A pair of Stonechats were noted on the opposite bank and a Reed Bunting was in the scrubby reeds.
November 15th
On the Deben a Dunlin and Turnstone were close in by the docks, with 2 Little Grebes mid-channel. 4 Moorhen were on the river the other side of Wilford Bridge.
Dunlin Calidris alpina on the River Deben at Melton, November 2007.
On Melton Match Lake along with the Tufted Ducks were 2 Wigeon and 4 Mute Swans, 2 adults and 2 juveniles. Along Brick Kiln Lane several birds were in the hedgerows with 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chaffinch, 3 Blue Tits, 6 Long-tailed Tits, 4 Great Tits, Blackbird, Robin and 3 Jays.
November 14th
1 Common Snipe flew out from the small area of salt marsh by Melton docks, this was probably the same bird seen later on the island with 2 Grey Plovers. 2 Little Grebes were mid channel nearby. At Melton sewage works 9 Meadow Pipits and 1 Pied Wagtail were present.
Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton a Jay flew across the road and at the corner shop at the junction with High Street 4 House Sparrows were on the guttering.
November 12th
With high tide on the Deben at Melton the waders were roosting, with c.400 Dunlin spread in 3 areas - opposite the sewage works, opposite the docks and opposite the island. Also present Knot, Redshank, Ringed Plover and Turnstone. 2 Little Grebes were mid-channel near the sewage works and further down around buoy 30 another 8.
On Melton Match Lake, Tufted Ducks increased to 10, along with the 2 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Mute Swans, 4 Coots and a Moorhen.
November 9th
On Melton Match Lake, 8 Tufted Ducks, an adult and a juvenile Great Crested Grebe, 6 Coot and an adult and a juvenile Mute Swan.
On the grassland near Decoy Farm, 12 Lapwing, c.200 Starlings, Rook, Jackdaw and Woodpigeon. Along Waterhead Lane, in a sun-trap, 1 Common Darter and several Harlequin Ladybirds on leaves.
November 8th
By the sewage works a Kingfisher flew up and went up river. On the river c.400 Dunlin, Grey Plover, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Wigeon and 2 Little Egrets.
November 7th
In a Silver Birch along Common Lane, Bromeswell a single Lesser Redpoll. Further along through the village towards Ufford along Bridge Road, 3 Curlew and 1 Grey Heron in grazing meadows near the railway line and in the hedgerows 6 Redwing and 2 Goldfinch.
November 5th
4 Little Egrets along the river at Melton, also Redshank, Lapwing, 15 Curlew, Wigeon, 3 Cormorants, Common Gull and Black-headed Gull.
November 2nd
Along the byway from Sutton to Methersgate 1 Kestrel, 1 Little Owl, 2 coveys of Red-legged Partridges of 6 and 8, 6 Magpies and 5 Siskin flew towards Methersgate on the way back. There were swarms of Harlequin Ladybirds along the byway through the tree areas. At Methersgate in some Alders 4 Siskin.
November 1st
1 Greenshank by Wilford Bridge.
October
October 31st
By the island on the Deben at Melton 2 Grey Plover, Dunlin, Redshank, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull and Herring Gull.
October 30th
1 Greenshank by Wilford Bridge. 1 Fieldfare at the sewage works, also 2 Goldcrests and Meadow Pipit flew over.
October 29th
8 Greenshank flew down river at Melton, with Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Turnstone and Redshank roosting on the bank at high tide, with some Redshank in the dead trees. Curlew and Black-tailed Godwits on the breached area and Lapwing on the island. 2 Little Grebes around Melton Docks.
October 11th
1 Grey Wagtail at Melton sewage works with a male Kestrel hunting along the footpath. A Peacock was seen along the footpath near Wilford Bridge.
Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton the footpath that goes to the left through the grassy field, in adjacent woodland several Hornets around an Oak tree.
October 8th
1 Little Grebe by Melton Docks plus 1 Greenshank nearby. At the sewage works the bushes were alive with birds including 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcaps - 2 female and 1 male, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Dunnocks, 1 Goldcrest, 4 Blue Tits, 3 Robins, 4 Blackbirds, 2 Song Thrushes and 2 Greenfinch.
October 5th
At Sutton Hoo Skylark, Yellowhammer, Great Spotted Woodpecker plus 2 Common Buzzards drifted across and south.
A Treecreeper was heard in trees by roundabout at Bromeswell near Wilford Bridge.
October 4th
On the river between the sewage works and Deben Mills sluice lots of waders including c.250 Dunlin, 6 Knot, 1 Grey Plover, Ringed Plover, Curlew, Lapwing, Redshank, 1 Avocet and 4 Greenshank. Wigeon and Little Egret were also present with a Little Grebe near Melton Docks. Among 200+ Black-tailed Godwits were two with colour bands, both not noted here before. Both were standing in the river with a rising tide. The first bird had three bands showing, but would have a fourth probably below the water, RL-L//? After submitting the record it would probably be RL-L//W, with the details below:
|
12.04.99 |
Dee estuary, |
|
30.04.00 |
Höfn, A-Skaftafellssýsla, |
|
01.05.00 |
Höfn, A-Skaftafellssýsla, |
|
19.02.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
20.02.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
27.02.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
28.03.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
10.04.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
11.04.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
16.04.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
21.04.01 |
Ouse Washes, Cambridgeshire, |
|
06.10.05 |
Freiston, the |
|
04.10.07 |
Deben estuary, |
The second bird had one leg raised so the bands could not be seen, ??-RX. This is one that was ringed in Iceland, but without knowing the rings on the left leg, we can't identify the individual.
October 3rd
At the sewage works at Melton 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtails, 1 Green Woodpecker, a few Chiffchaff though less numbers than recently, 18 Goldfinch with a Spotted Redshank on the river close by.
October 1st
Lots of waders on the Deben at Melton including, Dunlin, Knot, Redshank, Ringed Plover, 1 Greenshank, Turnstone and 1 Common Sandpiper near Wilford Bridge.
July - September
September
September 27th
1 juvenile Curlew Sandpiper again on the Deben and possibly two Artic Terns that were seen going away heading down river.
September 25th
Early morning along the Deben and the Kingfisher flew out from Melton Spring Farm Sluice North and nearby on the river a Common Sandpiper. Further down river 1 Curlew Sandpiper.
Opposite Melton docks just after high tide there were two juvenile Curlew Sandpipers present with 6 Oystercatcher and 26 Cormorants in the dead trees behind. On the footpath was an Harlequin Ladybird.
September 24th
Along the Deben between Melton docks and the sewage works a flock of tits including Great, Blue and several Long-tailed were moving through the scrub. On the river 1 Spotted Redshank, 2 juvenile Curlew Sandpipers with Dunlin, Turnstone and Dunlin. Also present 2 Greenshank, Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, 17 Wigeon, Shelduck, 2 Herring Gulls along with Black-headed Gulls. Around 150 House Martins were in a tight group moving up river and later 3 Swallows flew West.
At lunchtime 3 Curlew Sandpipers were present along with 2 Grey Plover on the breached area.
September 21st
The Spotted Redshank was again present on the Deben opposite Melton Spring Farm Sluice North. There was an increase to 27 Wigeon further down river and looking out from Deben Mills Sluice the female Pintail was near red buoy no.30. The waders were stretched out along the river, as it being low tide, with 3 Curlew Sandpipers, c.25 Knot and 2 Greenshank among other usual waders.
At the bus stop by the chapel on The Street, Melton a Red Admiral was flying around a Pear tree.
September 20th
2 Curlew Sandpipers between Woodbridge and Melton on the far shore again this morning. A few House Martins overhead were again heading down river. A Fox was noted in the grounds of the sewage works.
Another lunchtime visit and with the tide low most of the waders were towards Woodbridge on the section between the sewage works and Melton Boat club. Lots of Black-tailed Godwits with Knot, Dunlin, Redshank, Ringed Plover, Curlew, Lapwing, 2 Curlew Sandpipers and 1 Greenshank. Also present Cormorant, 12 Wigeon, Little Egret, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull and Great Black-backed Gull with a Kingfisher flying up river. Heading back to Melton and opposite the sluice by the sewage works two nice finds in a Spotted Redshank - the first one noted on return passage, and close by a female Pintail, the first one noted this far up river.
A female Pintail Anas acuta on the Deben opposite the sewage works sluice, a first this far up river.
September 19th
Early morning between the sewage works and Woodbridge a count of 210 Black-tailed Godwits were made on the Deben. Several Chiffchaffs around the sewage works.
Another visit at lunchtime and 3 juvenile Curlew Sandpipers now present. Within the Dunlin one while flying was noted to have something hanging down. On landing it looked like a fisherman's weight on line wrapped around one leg. The Dunlin seemed able to fly and feed ok so hopefully it will not be to much of a problem.
September 18th
Early morning between Melton and Woodbridge along the Deben and the juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was present again with 122 Dunlin. A Meadow Pipit flew over.
At lunchtime 8 Greenshank opposite the docks on the breached area and 1 male Kestrel hunting along the path.
September 17th
Early morning between Melton and Woodbridge the amazing sighting of a few hundred hirundines, though difficult to count, with the majority mainly House Martins with a few Swallows low in the sky stretching from the sewage works to the edge of Woodbridge. The Curlew Sandpiper was again present on the river.
A poor record shot of the juvenile Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea on the Deben.
At lunchtime a count of some of the waders included 220+ Black-tailed Godwits, Greenshank 3, juvenile Curlew Sandpiper 1, Knot 30+, Dunlin 20+, Turnstone 5 along with numerous Redshank and some Curlew. 1 Kingfisher along the river and 9 Little Egrets and 3 Grey Herons, including a juvenile, on the breached area.
September 14th
The Curlew Sandpiper again, this time opposite the docks along with c.100 Ringed Plover, 25 Dunlin, 35 Knot, 4 Turnstone with 10 Little Egrets and 2 Grey Herons on the breached area.
September 13th
The juvenile Curlew sandpiper between Melton and Woodbridge. 1 adult male Kestrel hunting along the path. At the sewage works Chiffchaff with 1 singing. A Reed Warbler with a few Blackbirds, Robins and Song Thrush present.
Song Thrush Turdus philomelos in scrub at Melton sewage works.
September 12th
The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was again present on the Deben between Woodbridge and Melton with the Kingfisher flew from the ditch near the sewage works.
The high tide roost contained the Curlew Sandpiper again with the Knot, Dunlin, Ringed Plover and Turnstone. A Common Buzzard drifted over westwards causing the waders to scatter in panic including 2 Greenshank. The Kingfisher opposite the docks.
Kingfisher Alcedo atthis opposite Melton docks.
September 11th
Early morning visit to the Deben at Melton and the Kingfisher by the docks again. 2 Grey Wagtail flew inland from the sewage works with the highlight being c.500-600 House Martins across the river over Sutton Hoo.
Another visit at lunchtime and in the high tide roost the juvenile Curlew Sandpiper and 47 Knot.
September 10th
1 Kingfisher by Melton docks and 10 Knot in the high tide roost opposite.
September 7th
On the Deben between the sewage works and Woodbridge, 3 Greenshank, 4 Wigeon, 1 winter plumage Grey Plover amongst the other waders. 1 Common Tern mid channel on a buoy. A Clouded Yellow flew up river along the river bank.
September 6th
Opposite Melton docks early morning the juvenile Curlew Sandpiper present again along with 10 Knot in winter plumage, 10 Greenshanks - 4 on the island and 6 on the breached area, 4 Little Egrets, 27 Cormorants in the dead trees, the Bar-tailed Godwit with the Black-tailed Godwits again and the Kingfisher was flying up and down the river.
September 5th
Lots of waders on the Deben at Melton including 1 juvenile Curlew Sandpiper, probably a different bird to the one in August. Also Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Turnstone, Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, Redshank, 4 Greenshank, Lapwing, Oystercatcher and 1 Grey Plover in summer plumage. Other birds present included 5 Little Egrets, 1 Grey Heron, 1 adult Common Tern moulting into winter plumage, 1 Green Woodpecker flew across the river and a Ruddy Darter near the sewage works.
September 4th
1 Kingfisher by Melton docks, 2 Stock Doves opposite the sewage works and a Common Lizard on the footpath further along.
August
August 31st
Early morning on the Deben, in the scrub between the docks and the sewage works by the sluice a family of Blackcaps, 2 adults and 2 juveniles with a Whitethroat nearby and a Hornet along the path. Chiffchaff singing at the sewage works again. Another Hornet was on the wall of the Lindos Centre.
Another visit at lunchtime with 6 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper and Yellow Wagtail on the river wall and saltmarsh opposite the docks and a female Sparrowhawk flew low across the river causing all the birds to fly up in panic.
August 30th
Early morning on the Deben, 1 Avocet flew around the breached area, 1 Kingfisher by the docks and by the sewage works a few Chiffchaffs with one singing again.
August 29th
The juvenile Curlew Sandpiper was again present early morning, this time further down river between the sewage works and Woodbridge.
At lunchtime the Curlew Sandpiper was again in the high tide roost opposite Melton docks. An adult Common Tern flew up river and settled on a buoy near the island. 6 Greenshanks were present on the island.
Fairly low in the sky a large flock of hirundines drifted down river and whilst watching them a superb Hobby passed over in their wake.
August 28th
Another early morning visit to the Deben at Melton with 4 Greenshanks and 2 Common Sandpipers present.
At lunchtime with the tide high the smaller waders congregate on the riverbank opposite Melton docks. Among the Ringed Plovers, now built up to 91, 10 Dunlin and 4 Turnstone was a juvenile Curlew Sandpiper. This is the third year in a row that this passage migrant species has occured on this stretch or river. 30 Cormorants were present in the dead trees on the breached area.
August 24th
An early morning visit to the Deben at Melton and a group of 9 Greenshanks were present on the breached area and 1 Common Sandpiper along the shore line.
August 22nd
1 adult Common Tern flew towards Melton docks with 2 Greenshank nearby. Further down river on the opposite shore between the sewage works and Woodbridge there were 9 Wigeon - the first returning birds.
August 21st
4 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper and 2 Knot in partial summer plumage.
August 15th
A count of 51 Ringed Plovers now present on the Deben at Melton, along with Dunlin, 6 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Knot in winter plumage - a different bird from a couple of days ago and a count of 10 Little Egrets - the highest total recorded here at one time. 1 Turtle Dove flew over and the adult and juvenile Common Terns were still present for their second week.
August 14th
With the high tide at lunchtime again similar species to yesterday except the Knot and Common Sandpipers, but 6 Greenshanks were seen in saltmarsh further back. The adult and juvenile Common Terns were joined by a second adult. 2 Stock Doves flew over and 2 Turtle Doves were in the dead tree opposite the island. A Kestrel was hunting near the picnic site.
August 13th
Another early morning visit to the Deben with Greenshanks increased to 5 and the adult Common Tern flying down river. In scrub along the footpath a Whitethroat was seen.
At lunchtime with high tide the waders were bunched up on the salt marsh to the back of the breached area with the smaller species congregating along the thin strip of sea wall opposite the island. Birds included 11 Dunlin, 52 Ringed Plover, 5 Turnstone, 1 Knot in partial summer plumage and 2 Common Sandpipers. In the dead trees were 20 Cormorants and at the back towards the woodland 7 Little Egrets were in one tree with an eight in an adjacent one.
August 10th
In the morning the Ringed Plovers have now increased to 24 and the Kingfisher was seen again flying down river. A family of Pied Wagtails were present around Melton docks including 1 adult and 3 juveniles. 3 Greenshank were again on the river. At lunchtime 1 Common Sandpiper was noted along with the adult and juvenile Common Terns.
August 9th
Among the Black-tailed Godwits near the sewage works on the river one was seen to have colour bands on its legs GR-Y//W. This is a returning bird last seen in March and in previous years.
August 8th
The Kingfisher was noted again near the docks. 2 Common sandpipers were on the island along with the juvenile Common Tern. The adult brought a fish for it but was chased of by a Herring Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull. It managed to evade them but on reaching the juvenile a Black-headed Gull started chasing it. The tern eventually managed to get back to the juvenile with the fish.
Nearby 3 Greenshanks, 8 Dunlin including the first juvenile and the Ringed Plovers increased to 14. A Painted Lady was along the path.
August 7th
1 Kingfisher flew down river past Melton Docks and also present nearby the juvenile Common Tern and 2 Greenshanks.
August 6th
On the Deben at Melton, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank, Ringed Plover, Turnstone, Oystercatcher, 1 Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpipers, with 1 Common Gull on the island with Black-headed Gulls - the first returning bird. A juvenile Common Tern was also on the island with an adult flying down river. A Reed Warbler was noted going into the reed ditch and young could be heard begging for food. A family of Blackbirds were along the path near the picnic site - 1 female and 2 juveniles.
August 2nd
An early morning visit to Martlesham Creek with 2 Whimbrel, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, Lapwing, Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 4 Little Egrets, 2 Grey Herons, 1 male Yellowhammer on the far side and 2 Roesel's Bush Crickets along the path.
Past Kyson Point towards Woodbridge a Reed Warbler and a male Reed Bunting in the reed ditch.
At lunchtime at Melton 6 Common Sandpipers, 2 Greenshank, 4 Little Egrets and 2 Grey Herons.
August 1st
Another large influx of Black-headed Gulls on the Deben at Melton with a count of 600+ between the island and sewage works including the breached area. 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Greenshank, 5 Little Egrets and a Painted Lady on the footpath near the island.
July
July 31st
The adult Common Tern again with only 1 juvenile on the island on the Deben at Melton, also 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Greenshank and a Turtle Dove in a dead tree opposite the island.
July 30th
A female Stag Beetle was on the footpath between Melton Docks and the picnic site. On the river 3 Greenshanks, 2 Common Sandpipers, 3 Common Terns - 1 adult and 2 juveniles, 4 Ringed Plover, a second family of Oystercatchers with 1 juvenile opposite the docks. At the sewage works a Turtle Dove and 4-5 Chiffchaffs.
July 27th
By Melton docks an adult Common Tern was flying down river with a Greenshank nearby. At the sewage works up to 6 Chiffchaffs.
July 26th
2 Common Sandpipers still on the Deben at Melton.
July 25th
The first returning Ringed Plover on the Deben at Melton along with Curlew. Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Shelduck, Dunlin, 1 Greenshank, 4 Common Sandpipers, 3 Little Egrets, 1 juvenile Grey Heron and 2 Stock Dove.
On the rough grassland towards Decoy Farm, 1 Large White, 5 Meadow Browns, 5+ Gatekeepers, 2 Small Heath, 2 Comma, 5+ Brown Argus and a Small White.
July 24th
Early morning on the Deben 2 Common Sandpipers, 3 Dunlin, 1 Grey Heron and 10 Coromorants. At lunchtime the Common Sandpipers had increased to 7 with 1 Greenshank.
July 23rd
3 Dunlins, 2 Common Sandpipers on the Deben with 10 Cormorants and 1 Grey Heron on the breached area.
At lunchtime the 7 Common Sandpipers were present near the island again and a Greenshank was noted flying down river.
July 22nd
Two Dunlins were on the Deben Melton early morning, the first returning birds of this regular autumn/winter visitor. Several Black-tailed Godwits and Black-headed Gulls along with Curlew, Redshank, Lapwing and Oystercatcher.
Another visit at lunchtime with 2 Greenshanks and a party of 7 Common Sandpipers near the island.
July 19th
Another early morning visit along the river with 30+ Black-tailed Godwits, 2 Little Egrets, 2 Common Sandpipers, the Turtle Dove again in the dead tree and a Reed Warbler in the ditch by the picnic site. Several Dark-lipped Banded Snails on vegetation along the footpath between the docks and picnic site.
Dark-lipped Banded Snail Cepaea nemoralis along the river footpath at Melton.
A visit to the River Deben at Ufford for dragonflies and damselflies, was a bit late in the season with few about but present were Common Darter, Common Blue Damselfly, 3 Banded Demoiselle and a Brown Hawker that was flying weakly. A Kingfisher was heard and butterflies included Small White, Gatekeeper and Large Skipper.
July 18th
An early morning visit to the Deben at Melton with a singing Reed Warbler near the docks. A few Redshank and Black-tailed Godwits along with a couple of Greenshanks. A Common Tern was flying up and down the river between the sewage works and Wilford Bridge. A Kestrel was over hunting along the footpath around the picnic site area and a Turtle Dove was in the the dead tree opposite the island again..
July 17th
2 Common Sandpipers on the Deben at Melton.
At the fishponds in Bromeswell by the Cherry Tree pub 2 Ringlets, 5 Gatekeepers, 2 Brown Argus, 1 Large White, 1 Small Copper, 1 Red Admiral, Azure Damselfly and Roesel's Bush Cricket.
Roesel's Bush Cricket Metrioptera roeselii in grassland by the fishponds in Bromeswell.
Along Brick Kiln Lane bridleway 1 Speckled Wood, 1 Red Admiral and a Comma. On the rough grassland to Decoy Farm 1 Brown Hawker, 1 Common Darter, Blue-tailed Damselfly, Common Blue Damselfly, 10+ Brown Argus, 1 Comma, 3 Gatekeepers and 2 Meadow Brown. The gall Jaapiella veronicae was found on several plants of Germander Speedwell.
The gall Jaapiella veronicae on Germander Speedwell.
July 16th
A lot more returning waders on the Deben at Melton. With the rising tide they were concentrated on the breached area and included a party of 9 Common Sandpipers - the largest group seen at one time. Also present 6 Greenshank, 70+ Black-tailed Godwits, 40+ Redshank, 20+ Curlew, a few Lapwings and Oystercatchers and a single Turnstone. 16 Cormorants, Shelduck, 4 Little Egrets, 5 Grey Herons including an immature and a lot more Black-headed Gulls. A pair of Stock Dove flew in and a pair of Swallows were flying around. Butterflies noted along the path included 1 Large White, 1 Gatekeeper and Red Admiral.
July 12th
On the Deben at Melton Black-tailed Godwits and Curlew with a Muscovy Duck near the docks - it is one of the three from the picnic site pond.
On Melton Match Lake a Great Crested Grebe with two young on the second pit.
On the rough grassland along the path to Decoy Farm 2 Ringlet, 2 Small Copper, 3 Small Heath, 4 Small White, 10+ Meadow Brown, 2 Small Skippers and 10+ Brown Argus with Common Blue and Blue-tailed Damselflies.
July 11th
Another walk between Woodbridge and Melton with 18 Black-tailed Godwits, Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 20+ Curlew on the breached area, several Lapwing, 3 Grey Herons and a Turtle Dove opposite the sewage works. 2 Gatekeepers, 3 Red Admiral and a Five-spot Burnet Moth on a Buddleia.
July 9th
Along the stretch of river between Woodbridge and Melton more returning waders including 40+ Redshank, 6 Black-tailed Godwits, 3 Greenshank, 7 Curlew. Also present were the Oystercatcher family and 2 families of Shelduck towards Melton Boat Club - one with three young and the other with four. A Lesser Black-backed Gull, 4 Little Egrets and 3 Cormorants.
July 5th
More returning waders on the Deben with 10 Black-tailed Godwits on the breached area before they flew up river. Also present 8 Redshank, Curlew, Oystercatcher, Shelduck and in one of the dead trees opposite the island single Turtle and Stock Doves. A Small Tortoiseshell was along the path and on the other side of Wilford Bridge a Common Sandpiper.
At Melton Match Lake a dead Brown Rat was in the parking area and there was the Great Crested Grebe with 1 young again on the first lake while on the second 3 male and 1 female Tufted Ducks.
On the rough grassland between Brick Kiln Lane and Decoy Farm 2 Small Coppers, 10+ Meadow Browns, 2 Ringlets, 5 Brown Argus including a pair mating, 3 Small Whites and Common Blue Damselfly.
July 4th
Another early morning visit to the Deben at Melton with the Oystercatcher family, 8 Redshanks flying down river and 12 Cormorants on the dead trees. A count of Canada and Greylag Geese was possible as they were along the river and bank. There were 97 Canada Geese, 2 Greylags and 2 Canada/Greylag hybrids. The other Shelduck family with 8 young were feeding around the island and there were 3 Mallard families between there and Wilford Bridge consisting of a female with young of 3, 6 and 7 respectively.
Visiting again later and there were 3 Greenshanks - 2 flew down river and 1 by Wilford Bridge. 2 Common Sandpipers were opposite the island and on the breached area salt marsh 2 Grey Herons and 3 Little Egrets.
At Bromeswell Green woodland 2 singing Chiffchaffs and 1 Blackcap. Other birds included 2 Bullfinch, 1 Sparrowhawk heard, a family group of Treecreepers and 1 Wren was seen to fly into foliage by the pool and young were heard begging. Butterflies included 5+ Meadow Brown, 2 Ringlet, 5+ Small White and the Southern Marsh Orchids were still in flower but going over. A Toad and some toadlets were seen on the path.
July 3rd
An early morning visit to the Deben at Melton and by the sewage works the family of Oystercatchers with 3 young were present. The young have only a small amount of down left on their heads now. A Reed Warbler was in scrub between the works and docks. Near the docks a Mute Swan with 4 cygnets and across on the breached area 10 Curlew, 4 Redshank, Shelduck, 2 Little Egrets, 3 Cormorants, 10 Lapwings, Black-headed Gull, Greylag and Canada Goose. A female Sparrowhawk flew into the woodland behind with prey in its talons. Opposite the island a Turtle Dove was in a dead tree and a Jay and Kestrel were noted nearby. Along the path towards Wilford Bridge a Wood Mouse was dead on the sea wall and a Common Shrew was dead on the path. 2 families of Mallards were on the river for safety as a Fox was seen walking along the shoreline. It went over the bank and flushed a Curlew. Chiffchaff, Goldfinch and Swallow were also noted.
Another visit at lunchtime and there were now 5 Redshanks, 2 Grey Herons and 2 Greenshanks on the breached area. A pair of Shelducks were seen over the back with two very young ducklings. 1 Common Sandpiper was on the bank opposite the island.
July 2nd
A visit to Upper Hollesley Common with 2 singing Yellowhammers, 1 Green Woodpecker, 1 male Stonechat, a Dartford Warbler heard only, a few Whitethroats and a family of Treecreepers. 3 Meadow Browns were along one ride with lots of Bell Heather along the edge and 7+ Small Coppers.
April - June
June
June 29th
At Melton picnic site meadow 2 Meadow Browns with a Field Vole running across the path. On the area of Ragwort and Perforate St.John's-wort there were several Cinnabar moth caterpillars on the Ragwort while a leaf beetle Chrysolina hyperici was found on the St.John's-wort.
June 28th
A visit to the fish ponds near the Cherry Tree pub at Bromeswell found lots of butterflies and damselflies in the warm weather, including 10+ Ringlets, 5+ Meadow Browns, 2 Small Skippers, 1 Comma, 1 Small Copper, 1 Red Admiral and 1 Small White. There were also several Azure Damselflies and a couple of Common Hawkers including an immature male. Birds included singing Chiffchaff and Blackcap while a Kingfisher was heard. A Muntjac was seen and a single flowering spike of Bee Orchid.
An immature male Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum at the fish ponds, Bromeswell.
June 27th
There were 3 young again in the Oystercatcher family on the Deben opposite the sewage works with 1 Stock Dove in the dead tree nearby. On the breached area saltmarsh 1 Little Egret and lots of Canada Geese with some Greylag. 1 adult Mute Swan with 4 cygnets by Melton Docks.
At Melton picnic site grassland towards Wilford Bridge 1 Small Skipper, 2 Meadow Browns, 1 Brown Hawker and several Cinnabar moth caterpillars on Ragwort.
At Melton Match Lake 1 Mute Swan with 2 cygnets and on the first lake 1 Great Crested Grebe with 1 young.
June 26th
Cycling along the Bawdsey Road between Sutton Heath and the church 2 Skylarks were singing in fields either side, with 2 male Yellowhammers singing and a small flock of Linnets and Goldfinches noted.
At Lower Farm, Sutton Street on the reservoir 3 Oystercatchers, 1 Great Crested Grebe and 1 Little Egret with several House Martins and Swifts flying around. 1 Red-legged Partridge in the adjacent field and 1 singing Yellowhammer and 1 Blackcap at the farm. A Kestrel was noted over the fields towards the river.
On the Deben at The Tips toward Methersgate 6 Cormorants, 5 Shelduck and a Herring Gull.
June 25th
The family of Oystercatchers were present on the Deben opposite the sewage works though only two young could be found. Nearby on the beached area 5 Cormorants in the dead trees, 1 Little Egret and 1 Grey Heron. 1 Meadow Brown and 1 Small White along the footpath.
June 22nd
A family of Oystercatchers were on the Deben near the sewage works at Melton. The two adults were with 3 young that were quite downy. They were along the edge of the river before the adults flew across to the other bank calling, where the 3 young swam across the low tide channel.
Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus family on the Deben at Melton.
Also present 3 Cormorants, 1 Little Egret, 3 Grey Herons, 1 Redshank, 11 Lapwings and on the bank opposite the island at least 9 juvenile Shelducks were sitting down.
June 21st
Along the reed bed walk way off Common Lane, Bromeswell a Red Admiral with singing Chiffchaff and Reed Warbler.
On the farm reservoir along Summer Lane 1 female Tufted Duck with 8 ducklings, 2 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Herring Gull and 1 Cormorant. There were lots of Common Blue Damselflies and 2 male Black-tailed Skimmers and a few Southern Marsh Orchids. A Whitethroat was singing in the hedge further along and at Sink Farm 3 juvenile Swallows were on a wire outside a barn and 2 Red-legged Partridges in an adjacent.
June 20th
At the pond in Burkes Wood, Melton a male Broad-bodied Chaser was patrolling the pond and at one time chased a female that was egg-laying. There were several Common Blue Damselflies and a couple of Large Red Damselflies. In the pond were many tadpoles. A Chiffchaff was singing in the wood and 2 Sparrowhawks, a male and a juvenile, were being mobbed by a Crow overhead.
On the Deben at Melton, 12 Lapwing, 3 Cormorants with the singing Lesser Whitethroat again and a Southern Hawker.
Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea on Gorse along the Deben footpath at Melton.
June 19th
Behind the community centre in Woodbridge 2 Song Thrushes with another singing by the rail line. Around the model boat pond 1 adult and 2 juvenile Pied Wagtails with a Reed Warbler singing in the small patch of reedmace nearby. Along the river 2 more Reed Warblers in the ditch with 1 going down into the reeds where young were heard. In scrub Whitethroat, Goldfinch and Chiffchaff. 2 male Reed Buntings were noted with 2 Swallows flying around. A Grey Heron on the opposite side of the river was being mobbed by 6 Black-headed Gulls.
Toward Melton between Gibbons and Melton Boat Club a Turtle Dove was heard. Further along the river path near the sewage works a Lesser Whitethroat was singing. On the river 3 Curlew flew in with Oystercatcher, 1 Little Egret, Cormorant and Shelduck present. Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler and Whitethroat between sewage works and Melton docks with a family of 1 adult and 3 juvenile Pied Wagtails around the docks. 1 Mole was found dead by the rail crossing at the docks.
At lunchtime another visit to the river with 7 Lapwings, 6 Curlew, 1 Little Egret and 2 Grey Herons on the breached area. A male Black-tailed Skimmer and a mating pair of Common Blue Damselflies were on the footpath towards Wilford Bridge with a singing Lesser Whitethroat in the scrub. Along the footpath on the other side of Wilford Bridge 1 Emperor Dragonfly, 6 Meadow Browns and 3 Sedge Warblers along the ditch.
On the grassland by the footpath to Decoy Farm 2 Small Heaths, 7 Meadow Browns, 1 Comma, 1 Red Admiral, 1 Painted Lady and a single Bee Orchid with House Martin and Swallow flying around and a Skylark singing.
June 18th
Along the Deben at Melton 2 Grey Herons, 1 Cormorant, 3 Redshanks and 1 Little Egret. A Chiffchaff was singing at the sewage works with Whitethroat and Reed Warbler in the scrub/reeds adjacent.
In the grassland by Melton picnic site 1 Large Skipper, Large White, Meadow Brown, Red-tailed Bumblebee, Blue-tailed Damselfly and Oedemera nobilis.
June 14th
Along the walk way through the reed beds from Common Lane a Peacock, a family of Great Tits with 7 fledglings a Reed Bunting while a Little Egret was seen to fly up into a tree. Further along at Bromeswell Green a Cetti's Warbler was singing in scrub between the river and the road. In the woodland 3 singing Chiffchaffs, 1 Blackcap, a family party of Blue Tits, 1 Jay, 1 male Bullfinch, a large family of Long-tailed Tits, a Field Vole, Rabbits, a young Toad, up to 5 Blood Vein Moths, 3 Meadow Browns, 1 Small White and 1 Red Admiral. Plants included Southern Marsh Orchid, Ragged Robin and Fen Stitchwort.
June 13th
A count of the Shelduck on the breached area of the River Deben at Melton opposite Melton Docks produced 102 while on the river a pair were present with 8 young. Oystercatcher, 3 Little Egrets and Herring Gull also present. 10 Lapwing were present on the island near the picnic site.
Along the footpath with careful searching 13 flowering spikes of Bee Orchid were found. Between the picnic site and Wilford Bridge a male and female Black-tailed Skimmer were seen, and in the scrub by the ditch a fledgling Blackbird and nearby 3 fledging Reed Warblers along with an adult feeding them. On the grassy area near the picnic site several Oedemera nobilis beetles along with 2 Meadow Browns.
A male Oedemera nobilis on Black Knapweed at Melton picnic site.
June 12th
At the Deben at Melton 2 Lapwings, Oystercatcher, Shelduck and 1 Cormorant. At Melton Picnic site 2 male Black-tailed Skimmers and Southern Marsh Orchid flowering.
At Melton Match Lake 1 male Tufted Duck and a pair of Mute Swans with 3 cygnets. Further along Brick Kiln Lane bridleway a Comma and on the grassland by the footpath to Decoy Farm 6 Small Heaths, 4 Meadow Browns, 1 Painted Lady, 1 Red Admiral, Red-tailed Bumblebee, with Viper's Bugloss in flower.
June 11th
A White Ermine moth was found in a cobweb at the Lindos Centre.
A visit to Hutchinson's Meadow, Melton with flowering Southern Marsh Orchid, Yellow Rattle and Meadow Buttercup. A Turtle Dove was heard and 3 Meadow Browns, 1 Painted Lady and 1 female Black-tailed Skimmer were noted.
Between Woodbridge and Melton along the Deben 1 Meadow Brown, a Shelduck with 3 young 5 Cormorants, 2 Turtle Doves flew across the river from the sewage works and a further one heard near the docks. Three Bee Orchids plants now present along the footpath.
June 7th
The first visit to the patch for a while with lots of flowers in bloom along the river footpath including Ox-eye Daisy and a Bee Orchid - the first time noted there.
Bee Orchid Ophrys apifera along the river footpath.
A Chiffchaff was singing by the sewage works with a Whitethroat nearby. On the river Shelduck, Oystercatcher, Herring Gull, a Cormorant, Black-headed Gull, a Lapwing, Mute Swan including 1 with 6 cygnets and a Common Sandpiper near Wilford Bridge. Around the picnic site/grassland singing Blackcap and Reed Warbler with Blue-tailed Damselfly and a female Black-tailed Skimmer.
A female Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum on grassland at Melton picnic site.
May
May 25th
A Fox was seen early morning in the parkland of Melton Lodge from Saddlemakers Lane, with Pheasant and some rabbits also.
Along Common Lane, Bromeswell the Cetti's Warbler was singing in the scrub by the reedbed boardwalk along with Chiffchaff. A Slow Worm was found dead on the road near the junction with the B1084. At Bromeswell Green a male Cuckoo was seen and heard. In the woodland singing Blackcap and Chiffchaff with 1 Speckled Wood and a moth Adela fibulella noted.
May 24th
Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton 2 Speckled Woods. On the footpath to the left opposite Lodge Farm Lane that leads to a grass field Cinnabar Moth and a Brown Argus. In the surrounding trees a singing Nightingale was present along with Blackcap and Garden Warbler while a Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard. A female Kestrel flew over.
At 12.30 a Honey Buzzard and 2 Common Buzzards flew over Melton Park heading SW (per Suffolk BINS).
May 23rd
Around Melton Docks two Swallows were flying around. On the river there were several Shelduck, vocal Oystercatchers, 1 Turnstone and 1 Little Egret. Around the picnic site in the reed ditches a Reed Warbler was singing and in the scrub Chiffchaff and Whitethroat. Along the footpath a female Orange Tip was noted with a few Gorse Shield Bugs on the gorse.
Gorse Shield Bug Piezodorus lituratus on gorse along the River Deben footpath.
A Common Blue was seen in the grassland near the car park and in the wildflower area Ragged Robin was in bloom with a few Twayblade.
May 22nd
A walk along the footpaths around Sutton Hoo where several House Martins were present and a Blue Tit was busy feeding young in a nest box near Tranter House. Singing Nightingale, Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Blackcap could be heard around the site. A pair of Muntjacs were seen to go into the wood with the male 'barking' frequently.
Butterflies seen included Small White, Large White, Peacock, a few Small Coppers and a Small Heath - a first for the year.
Small Heath Coenonympha pamphilus at Sutton Hoo.
May 21st
On the Deben at Melton 3 Redshank, 2 Curlew, Oystercatcher, Shelduck, 2 Little Egrets with singing Chiffchaff and Reed Warbler along with a group of c.20 Starlings including mainly fledglings.
May 18th
The Cuckoo was again heard near the sewage works at Melton early morning, with a Stock Dove in the dead tree on the opposite side of the river and 2 Little Egrets on the river.
The grassland by the footpath that leads from Brick Kiln Lane to Decoy Farm held 5 Brown Argus, 1 Holly Blue, very worn individuals of Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock, 1 Small White and 1 female Orange Tip. There were several Azure Damselflies and a superb Four-spotted Chaser.
Four-spotted Chaser Libellula quadrimaculata on the rough grassland of Brick Kiln Lane.
May 15th
A walk along the Deben from Melton to Woodbridge at lunchtime with 2 Chiffchaffs, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, Reed Warbler and Sedge Warbler. A Cuckoo was heard between the sewage works and Melton Boat Club.
Further along by Kings Marsh and Kyson Point further Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Reed Warbler with a male Reed Bunting and a Grey Heron in a ditch.
May 14th
A walk from Woodbridge to Melton early morning along the river footpath with 2 Curlew, several Oystercatchers and Shelducks, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Chiffchaff and Blackcap singing by the sewage works with a family of Long-tailed Tits moving through the scrub. Between the sewage works and docks Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Nightingale and a pair of Turtle Doves.
May 11th
1 Greenshank, 1 Common Tern on the Deben at Melton while a male Sparrowhawk flew over.
May 10th
Early morning walk along the Deben at Melton with the resident Oystercatchers and Shelduck, 1 Curlew, 2 Greenshanks and 1 Common Sandpiper. The rest of the waders including Redshank and Black-tailed Godwit have now moved on. Also present Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, 2 Cormorants and singing Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat.
Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo in a dead tree on the River Deben at Melton.
During a walk along Brick Kiln Lane bridleway and the footpath past the grassland towards Decoy Farm several butterflies were noted including Red Admiral, Large White, Speckled Wood, a male Orange Tip, Small White and 6 Brown Argus. A Green Woodpecker was also seen.
A male Orange Tip Anthocharis cardamines in Melton.
May 9th
At Sutton Hoo singing Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Whitethroat with Chaffinch, Pied Wagtail and a few House Martins and Swallows flying around. 1 Brown Argus and 1 Small Copper.
Brown Argus Plebeius agestis at Sutton Hoo.
May 8th
A visit to Upper Hollesley Common with 1 male Yellowhammer, 1 male Stonechat, Mistle Thrush, Chaffinch, Carrion Crow and 2 or 3 singing Woodlarks.
A male Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella on Upper Hollesley Common.
May 4th
2 Common Sandpipers, 5 Greenshank, 2 Little Egrets and 3 Curlew on the Deben today.
May 2nd
A walk along the footpath past the docks and a Turtle Dove could be heard, eventually seeing it across the reed bed towards the railway line. 3 Greenshanks on the river and a Little Egret and a Cormorant in a dead tree on the breached area.
The Nightingale was singing along Saddlemakers Lane and 3 Swifts low around the village.
At lunchtime with high tide a count of 11 Greenshanks was made on the river wall by the breached area. A Grey Heron was seen in the area.
May 1st
Early morning 2 Greenshanks, a Little Egret and a Common Sandpiper on the Deben at Melton. A Nightingale was singing in the scrub around the sewage works and another was singing along Saddlemakers Lane - the first along that stretch of the lane for a few years.
At lunchtime a Common Tern near the island on the Deben.
April
April 30th
A walk from Martlesham Creek to Woodbridge with several Sedge and Reed Warblers in the reed ditches. A Lesser Whitethroat singing, a Cuckoo towards the railway line at Broomhill and a Common Snipe flew up from the wet meadow. On the Creek Oystercatcher, Black-headed Gull, 3 Whimbrel - 1 of which was towards Kyson Point, 2 Greenshank and 1 Curlew. Past Kyson Point a Whitethroat and a male Reed Bunting.
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus a Spring passage migrant regularly found on Martlesham Creek.
At lunchtime in very windy conditions 2 Common Terns were seen down river from the sewage works on a mud bank with the tide high - one bird flew out and eventually caught a fish and took it back and passed it to the other bird. A Stock Dove was seen in the dead tree on the opposite bank of the river from the sewage works and a Kestrel was again hunting along the path towards the docks.
April 27th
Highlight of Spring so far was an adult Little Gull on the Deben near the sewage works seen early morning before flying up river.
Little Gull Larus minutus on the Deben near the sewage works.
The Nightingale was singing again near the docks and near Wilford Bridge a Greenshank, a Common Sandpiper, a Little Egret and 2 Curlew with 13 Barnacle Geese flying north.
April 26th
5 Greenshank on the breached area of the Deben at Melton with 2 Little Egrets nearby. 1 Common Sandpiper near the island and 4 Reed Warblers singing between the docks and Wilford Bridge.
April 25th
A Nightingale singing in scrub close to Melton Docks and the two Great Crested Grebes on the river again.
An afternoon visit to Sutton Hoo with 1 Nightingale, 2 House Martins, 4 Swallows with a Green-veined White and Small Copper. On the footpath that leads from Sutton Hoo to the Bawdsey Road that comes out near the Sutton Hoo turn off 3 Lizards were seen.
A Common Lizard Lacerta vivipara near Sutton Hoo.
April 24th
Another early visit to the Deben with the Lesser Whitethroat again between the sewage works and the docks and 1 Greenshank on the river. On the other side of Wilford Bridge near the stile 5 species of warbler could be heard singing with the Willow Warbler and a Whitethroat in the trees by Melton Match Lake, a Sedge Warbler in the reed ditch by the grazing meadow and on the opposite side of the river in the trees/scrub by the walkway through the reeds Cetti's Warbler and Chiffchaff.
Along Saddlemakers Lane 2 Song Thrush could be heard singing.
A lunchtime 2 Common Sandpipers on the Deben near the island close to the picnic area. Along Common Lane and Bromeswell Green woodland 2 Nightingales singing along with a Blackcap. A Bullfinch was heard in the scrub. Lots of Orange Tips including 3 males and 2 females, a Green-veined White and a female Large Red Damselfly.
A female Large Red Damselfly Pyrrhosoma nymphula along Common Lane, Bromeswell.
April 23rd
On an early morning walk along the Deben at Melton, singing Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Song Thrush by the sewage works and between there and the docks a singing Lesser Whitethroat. 1 Greenshank on the river and 3 Common Terns flying down river. Between the docks and the picnic site in the reedy ditch 2 Reed Warblers singing. 2 Great Crested Grebes swimming down river from Wilford Bridge which is an unusual sighting and they were probably from Melton Match Lake. On the other side of Wilford Bridge 1 Willow Warbler was singing in the trees next to the lake with a male a Sparrowhawk flying over. In the reedy ditch by the grazing meadow 2 singing Sedge Warblers.
At lunchtime there were 2 Little Egrets and 2 Greenshank on the river with 2 Common Sandpipers near Melton Docks.
Greenshank Tringa nebularia in summer plumage on the Deben.
April 21st
While on a cycle ride to Shingle Street, at Upper Hollesley Common 1 Woodlark singing, 1 male Yellowhammer and a pair of Stonechat.
April 20th
Early morning along the Deben with several Shelduck, Oystercatchers, 1 Cormorant, a male Reed Bunting singing between Melton Docks and the picnic site and towards the picnic site a Blackcap singing. Either side of Wilford Bridge 5 Little Egrets in total and a Greenshank. A dead Pike was seen in the mud near the bridge.
At lunchtime a count of birds on the breached area as the high tide was coming in: Black-tailed Godwit 206, Oysterctcher 20, Greenshank 6, Turnstone 10, Redshank 67, Curlew 1 and 1 summer plumaged Grey Plover. Also Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Crow, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, 2 Little Egret, 1 female Kestrel hunting along the river path and at the sewage works singing Chiffchaff and Blackcap. A Small Tortoiseshell along the footpath.
April 19th
A visit to Upper Hollesley Common with sightings of a pair of Stonechats on the heath approaching the car park. Along the bridleway another male Stonechat, a pair of Jays, several Chaffinch, Coal Tit, Great Tit and Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff and Woodlark singing. A Common Lizard was seen along with 2 Peacocks and the first Small Copper of the year.
On the byway down to the air base a pair of Linnets and behind the wire fence a male Dartford Warbler.
April 18th
The Greenshank on the Deben again with a few Black-tailed Godwits, Oystercatchers, Curlew and Redshank. 7 Little Egrets with 4 the Woodbridge side of Wilford Bridge and 3 the Ufford side. The Willow Warbler was singing in the willows between the river path and the lakes while the Cetti's Warbler could be heard on the other side of the river.
A lunchtime visit to Sutton Heath. En route an Adder was seen as it slid across the road by the junction to Sutton Hoo. At Sutton Heath at least 3 Willow Warblers were singing along with Chiffchaff and Goldcrest. A Woodlark and Stonechat were seen along with 1 Yellowhammer and a Swallow flew over.
April 17th
At the sewage works a Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Song Thrush singing, with a Greenshank and Little Egret on the river. In the woodland opposite Melton Docks a Cuckoo was heard. The Willow Warbler was singing again by Melton Match Lake.
Along Common Lane the Cettis's Warbler was singing towards the end of the boardwalk along with a Chiffchaff and a Great Spotted Woodpecker flew over. Further along at Bromeswell Green woodland 3 Nightingales were heard and seen along with Chiffchaff and Blackcap. A pair of Jackdaws were seen carrying nesting material into a hole in an old Oak tree.
April 16th
In the morning at Woodbridge in scrub along the river footpath past Deben Yacht Club towards Kyson Point a Lesser Whitethroat was singing and nearby in the reedy ditch along the grazing marsh a Sedge Warbler. Near the Tide Mill 2 Swallows.
Further along towards Melton past Melton Boat Club the Spotted Redshank again and by the sewage works a Greenshank.
At lunch time towards Melton Picnic site another Lesser Whitethroat behind the pool near the downwards footpath.
Along Common Lane singing Chiffchaff, Blackcap with a pair seen at Bromeswell Green woodland and along the boardwalk through the reeds the singing Cetti's Warbler again along with another Blackcap and on the opposite side of the river in the trees around Melton Match Lake a singing Willow Warbler.
April 13th
An early morning walk along Common Lane, Bromeswell where a Cetti's Warbler was singing in the scrub by the boardwalk footpath through the reeds. This could be the same one that was present for a couple of days at the nearby sewage works a month ago. Also singing a Blackcap. At Bromeswell Green woodland 2 Blackcaps singing, 3 Chiffchaffs and a Willow Warbler.
A Blackcap singing on Saddlemakers Lane.
Near the sewage works 2 Greenshank on the Deben.
Along the bridleway from Brick Kiln Lane a good selection of butterflies including 2 Speckled Wood, 2 Small White, 2 Comma, 1 Large White, 1 male Brimstone, 1 male Orange Tip and 2 Holly Blue. A Blackcap and Chiffchaff singing nearby.
Comma Polygonia c-album along the bridleway from Brick Kiln Lane.
April 12th
A visit to Sutton Hoo with a smart Peacock on the footpath to the site. Near the largest mound a Weasel came out from under a gorse bush and ran across the track. Singing Chiffchaff and Blackcap with Chaffinch and Skylark.
Peacock Inachis io on a footpath near Sutton Hoo.
A Weasel Mustela nivalis running across a track near the largest mound at Sutton Hoo.
April 11th
Along the Deben near Melon sewage works the Spotted Redshank moulting into summer plumage, 2 Greenshank, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Turnstone and Curlew. Chiffchaff singing in the scrub.
Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus on the River Deben.
April 10th
On the wall of the Lindos Centre, The V-Pug.
The V-Pug Chloroclystis v-ata.
At Sutton Common Kestrel, Yellowhammer, Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler singing, Goldcrest, Long-tailed Tit, Chaffinch, Skylark, 1 male Stonechat holding territory with a pair of Dartford Warblers nearby.
At Wilford Bridge the Green Sandpiper and Greenshank were present.
April 9th
A Red Kite west over Melton Park 10.00am (per Suffolk BINS).
April 3rd
The first Swallows of the year with 3 over Melton Match Lake and on the wires in the horse field on the opposite side of Brick Kiln Lane.
April 2nd
A warm but blustery day with the first Speckled Wood of the year, along with Peacock and Small White along the bridleway from Brick Kiln Lane with a Jay in the wooded area nearby and Chiffchaff singing.
The first Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria of the year.
January - March
March
March 30th
On the breached area opposite Melton Docks there were large numbers of Black-tailed Godwits along with Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Curlew, Shelduck, 4 Cormorants in the trees, quite a few Redshank and a Spotted Redshank. The large numbers of Dunlin and Lapwing and the few Grey Plovers seen earlier in the month have now all departed.
Chiffchaff were singing near the sewage works and towards the picnic site. Near the dock there was a Black-tailed Godwit and further along by the island near the picnic site several Redshank and 4 Avocet.
Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta on the Deben.
March 29th
Along the bridleway from Ufford Road to Brick Kiln Lane in Melton lots of singing birds including Blackbird, Robin, Wren, Dunnock, Coal Tit along with 2 Jays, Mistle Thrush and a Great Spotted Woodpecker.
At Melton Match Lakes 22 Tufted Ducks including 13 males and 9 females, 3 Great Crested Grebes and the Mute Swan still on the nest.
March 28th
A Small White was seen at the Lindos Centre along Saddlemakers Lane.
At Wilford Bridge there were 4 Little Egrets, 6 Wigeon remaining - the rest have now moved on, 1 Greenshank and 1 Peacock.
An overwintering Greenshank Tringa nebularia on the Deben by Wilford Bridge.
March 27th
The Greenshank and Green Sandpiper were on the Deben again. The male Sparrowhawk flew over towards the picnic site and a Peacock and Small Tortoiseshell were present near Wilford Bridge. A patch of Sweet Violets were flowering on the footpath bank towards the bridge.
Small Tortoiseshell Aglais urticae near Wilford Bridge.
Sweet Violet Viola odorata along the footpath between the Picnic site and Wilford Bridge.
March 26th
A Green Sandpiper was again present near Wilford Bridge. At times it stood on the mud in the warm sunshine, sometimes darting off to find some food, when it had caught a worm in the mud it would run down to the water to wash it off before eating it. A male Sparrowhawk flew over and 1 Peacock and Red Admiral. 2 Little Egrets and a Greenshank were further down river near the sewage works.
The overwintering Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus near Wilford Bridge.
March 24th
An adult Shag was on Melton Match Lakes (per Suffolk BINS).
March 22nd
80+ Redshank on the Deben near the sewage works also 1 Little Egret.
March 21st
Two Avocet were on the Deben at Melton, along with Redshank, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, Shelduck, Oystercatcher and 1 Cormorant.
At Melton Match Lake several Tufted Duck, a Mute Swan on a nest on the island and a male Sparrowhawk flew over.
March 20th
The Cetti's Warbler was again singing briefly at the sewage works along with a Chiffchaff in the very windy, sleety conditions. A male Reed Bunting was also present.
March 16th
During an early morning along the river path from Woodbridge to Melton birds found included Curlew, Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Redshank, 2 Little Egrets with a Great Black-backed Gull near Melton boat yard that was seen to eat an Eel whole, while 3 Lesser Black-backed Gull waited nearby for scraps in vain. On the breached area a count of 93 Black-tailed Godwits was made and the highlight of the morning was a singing Cetti's Warbler by the sewage works. This is a first for the local patch. Two Chiffchaffs were also present.
A lunchtime visit to Sutton Hoo along the public footpaths was fairly quiet although several Chaffinchs aorund the site, A Tawny Owl was heard hooting and a red Admiral was nearby. On the path up to Tranter House a Muntjac and several Rabbits were on the grassy woodland bank.
March 14th
Another early morning walk through Burkes Wood and along with the usual species close up views of a Treecreeper and 3 Chiffchaffs singing.
At lunchtime a Greenshank near wilford Bridge and at Bromeswell Green woodland, a Peacock - the first of the year. Birds included singing Chiffchaff, Marsh Tit and Treecreeper. Deer hoof prints, probably Muntajc, were also found along a track.
March 13th
Early morning walk through Burkes Wood, Melton with lots of activity all the usual tit species, the Long-tailed Tit nest by the path was complete, also Chaffinch, Wren, 2 singing Chiffchaffs along with Green Woodpecker and a male Sparrowhawk.
On the bridleway from Melton Lodge to Brick Kiln Lane the first Comma of the year, Primrose in flower and nearby 10-12 Redwings.
Primrose Primula vulgaris along the bridleway, Melton.
March 12th
A pleasant early morning walk along the river path from Woodbridge to Melton, with Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, very vocal Oystercatchers and Wigeon at Woodbridge. On the footpath a Sea Slater was found, this crustacean favours rocky or stony coast lines and shores and is a night feeder scavenging on detritus and seaweed.
Sea Slater Ligia oceanica by the River Deben, Woodbridge.
Further along near the Tide Mill a Rock Pipit was present and a Chiffchaff was singing further along.
During the walk numerous bird were singing including several Dunnocks, a couple of Song Thrushes, Greenfinch and Robin. On the river towards Melton within a group of Black-tailed Godwits, was an individual with colour bands its legs GR-Y//W. This bird was first seen in November 2005 and again in September and October 2006.
March 8th
An early morning walk around Bromeswell Green woodland where there were singing Song Thrush, Wren and Dunnock. Also present were Marsh, Blue, Great and Long-tailed Tits along with Treecreeper.
At Wilford Bridge the Green Sandpiper was present early morning.
During the afternoon by the sewage works along the Deben at Melton a Chiffchaff was singing and a Red Admiral in poor condition was found - an overwintering individual.
Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta on Blackthorn.
March 7th
An early morning walk through Burkes Wood with an amazing dawn chorus - birds heard singing included Chaffinch, Song Thrush, Robin, Wren, Blackbird, Dunnock, Goldcrest with numerous Blue Tits and Great Tits, Long-tailed Tit, a female Sparrowhawk, Green Woodpecker, Jay, Woodpigeon and Jackdaw.
On Melton Match Lake several Tufted Ducks again with 15 males and 7 females along with a female Pochard. Also present Coot, 2 Mute Swans and two Great Crested Grebes - one on each lake. On a field on the opposite side of the road a Muntjac and Rabbits were seen.
March 5th
In Burkes Wood Jay and Treecreeper and a Long-tailed Tit was noted with moss in it's beak, it flew in to scrub close to the path and watching from a distance a nest could be seen made of moss and lichen could be seen.
March 2nd
In Burkes Wood pond there were mating Toads along with Frog and Toad spawn. Lesser Celandine was in flower nearby and a clump of Hart's-tongue Fern was found.
Frog and Toad spawn in a pond in Burkes Wood.
A Red-tailed Bumblebee was found dead on the pavement near Melton Hall and Woods Lane.
March 1st
Along the River Deben at Melton Wigeon, Shelduck, Cormorant, Dunlin, Grey Plover, Redshank, Curlew, Oystercatcher, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Turnstone and Lapwing. A Grey Wagtail was seen at the sewage works.
February
February 28th
A brighter day but windy so few birds in Bromeswell Green woodland, with the usual tit species and a Treecreeper heard. 2 Muntjac were seen. Some photos were taken of other things of interest including Jew's ear Fungus, Hazel flowering and a pair of mating toads on a path and along Common Lane, Cramp Balls.
Jew's-ear Fungus Auricularia auricula-judae in Bromeswell Green woodland.
A pair of Toads Bufo bufo mating in Bromeswell Green woodland.
Cramp Balls Daldinia concentrica, also known as King Alfred's Cakes along Common Lane.
February 26th
A visit to Bromeswell Green woodland produced a super Lesser Redpoll feeding on Silver Birch catkin seeds. Also present Marsh Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Chaffinch, Robin and Blackbird.
February 23rd
In Burkes Wood Jay, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Bullfinch, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit and Chaffinch.
February 20th
In Burkes Wood Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Chaffinch and Treecreeper.
Along Saddlemakers Lane, Melton Dunnock and Coal Tit singing.
February 19th
On Melton Match Lake 2 Great Crested Grebes but no Aythya ducks.
February 16th
In the woodland behind Melton recreation ground known as Burkes Wood Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Chaffinch and Treecreeper. A pair of Bullfinches were along Leeks Hill.
February 13th
On Melton Match Lake 20 Tufted Ducks including 11 males and 9 females along with a Great Crested Grebe.
February 12th
On the Deben at Wilford Bridge 1 Green Sandpiper and 1 Greenshank.
February 9th
The female Ring-necked Duck was still on the second pit at Melton Match Lake, along with the Tufted Duck and Pochard. A Kingfisher was also present. Along Brick Kiln Lane a Great Spotted Woodpecker and two Jays.
February 8th
A visit to Melton Match Lakes to check on the growing duck numbers brought a surprise in a female Ring-necked Duck. This was probably the same bird present on Loompit Lake, Levington 3 weeks ago.
Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris at Melton Match Lake.
Also present were 4 Pochards and Tufted Ducks and along Brick Kiln Lane a male Sparrowhawk was seen, which spooked the resident Great Tits and Blue Tits and 2 Lesser Redpolls were in a tree before flying over towards the railway line
February 7th
At Melton Match Lake Great Crested Grebe, Moorhen, lots of Tufted Duck, also 2 Pochards - 1 male and 1 female.
In Bromeswell Green woodland a mixed flock of several Long-tailed Tits, Great Tits, Blue Tits and 2 Marsh Tits with 2 Treecreepers nearby and a Little Egret in the ditch by the secong small bridge.
February 6th
During a snow storm at Melton Match Lake Great Crested Grebe, the large number of Tufted Duck again with the 3 Pochards.
February 5th
At Melton Match Lake Great Crested Grebe, Moorhen, 3 Cormorants, lots of Tufted Duck this time with 12 males, also 3 Pochards - 2 males and 1 female.
In Bromeswell Green woodland a mixed flock of several Long-tailed Tits, 3 Great Tits, 4 Blue Tits and 2 Marsh Tits.
February 1st
The female Goldeneye was at Melton Match Lakes again with 20 Tufted Duck, 9 males and 11 females.
January
January 31st
At Melton Match Lake, a female Goldeneye, an Egyptian Goose, Tufted Duck, Mallard, Black-headed Gull, Coot and a single Cormorant, Little Grebe and Great Crested Grebe.
January 29th
On the Deben at Melton a count of 650 Lapwings on the breached area and sand banks near the sewage works. Other usual species including 3 Oystercatchers chasing each other and the Greenshank near Wilford Bridge. A Chiffchaff was in the scrub by the sewage works again.
January 25th
At Wilford Bridge a Green Sandpiper and Little Egret. Along Common Lane 11 Redwings flew over towards the Cherry Tree Pub. At Bromeswell Common woodland, many tits including Blue, Great and Long-tailed with Chaffinch, Dunnock, Robin, Blackbird and 2 Treecreepers.
January 24th
In Melton village birds singing in the morning included Song Thrush, Dunnock and Robin with 4 House Sparrows flying out from the eaves of the newsagent where they nest each year.
Along the bridleway from Ufford Road, Melton down to Brick Kiln Lane Great Spotted Woodpecker, Great Tit, Song Thrush, Blackbird, Coal Tit and Blue Tit were in the first bit of woodland.
At Melton Match Lake, 16 Tufted Duck including 13 males and 3 females, 1 male Pochard and 1 Great Crested Grebe and Cormorant. At Wilford Bridge a Greenshank.
January 23rd
An afternoon visit to the edge of my local patch, walking along the Deben from Sutton to Shottisham Creek. Near Sutton Hall Farm a Great Spotted Woodpecker. On the farm reservoir between Sutton Hall Farm and the derelict Lower Farm, Tufted Duck and Grey Heron. At Lower Farm 2 Fallow Deer and a Mistle Thrush. On the river Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Pintail, Shelduck, Wigeon, Cormorant, Lapwing, Redshank, Curlew and Dunlin. Towards Shottisham Creek 2 Teal flew up from a ditch, more Curlew and 2 Mute Swans on the grazing meadows. A Common Buzzard was seen over the back over woodland. Avocet flew down river and a count of 82 was made.
At Shottisham Creek a large bird of prey was seen sitting in a bush, as it flew up being mobbed by Carrion Crows it turned out to be a Rough-legged Buzzard. During an hour and a half watching the area, birds noted were Meadow Pipit, Reed Bunting, Chaffinch, Magpie, Blue Tit, Blackbird, a male Kestrel and a female Sparrowhawk that flew low over the meadows. 2 Marsh Harriers flew up river over the grazing meadows/reedbeds, 1 female and a very dark bird, probably a juvenile female. Later these drifted back and were joined by a third Marsh Harrier. Next a memorable sighting of a Common Buzzard seen over the woodland and this was then joined by the Rough-legged Buzzard and then a Marsh Harrier. The Rough-legged Buzzard briefly chased the Kestrel before they all eventually flew off over the back of the woodland.
Walking back up river a Great Northern Diver was mid-channel between Shottisham Creek and Waldringfield and 2 Rock Pipits flew up from the salt marsh.
January 22nd
With high tide on the River Deben, Melton a lot of waders were on the tops of the bank of the far river wall by the breached area. Lots of Dunlin, with Lapwing, Knot, Grey Plover, Oystercatcher, Curlew, Redshank, Turnstone and 3 Snipe flew up from the back of the breached area. 3 Little Grebe mid-channel with Shelduck and 2 Great Black-backed Gulls with Herring and Black-headed Gulls.
At Melton Match Lakes 1 Great Crested Grebe, 2 pairs of Tufted Duck, Coot and Mallard.
Along Saddlemakers Lane an Early Moth was on a window.
Early Moth Theria primaria on Saddlemakers Lane, Melton.
January 17th
1 Greenshank, 1 Kingfisher and 1 Little Egret by Wilford Bridge. The Kingfisher was seen again at Melton Match Lake along with 10 Tufted Duck and 1 Great Crested Grebe. Bullfinch along Common Lane, Bromeswell.
January 15th
Song Thrush and Dunnock singing along Saddlemakers Lane.
January 13th
1 Little Egret and 1 Kingfisher by Wilford Bridge.
January 12th
Along the River Deben at Woodbridge birds present included Redshank, Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit, Shelduck, Little Grebe and Black-headed Gull with Teal, Canada Goose and 5 Little Egrets on Kings Marsh grazing meadow. On the opposite side of the river 300+ Brent Goose were in an arable field. From Kyson Point Wigeon, Curlew, Dunlin, Grey Plover and many Golden Plover.
January 11th
A nice surprise was a male Stonechat sitting on a wire fence near the footpath that goes from Wilford Bridge towards the railway line. There is an embankment, between the grazing meadow and Melton Match Lakes, with some scrub and the odd Gorse bush and the Stonechat flew along it. This is the first time one has been noted in the river valley, they are usually encountered up on the heaths at Sutton and Hollesley.
January 10th
2 Avocet on the Deben along with the usual species and 1 Greenshank by Wilford Bridge.
January 9th
The usual species seen on the River Deben at Melton, with over 100 Lapwing and 150 Black-headed Gull. Also a Little Egret and 2 Little Grebes by Melton Docks with a further 5 the other side of Wilford Bridge towards Ufford, in their usual stretch of river by the curve with the overhanging bank. A Kingfisher flew down river. At the sewage works a flock of 5 Long-tailed Tits were present in the scrub, where a Chiffchaff was heard and eventually seen with the Long-tailed Tits.
January 8th
Along the road from Sutton to Methersgate, a male Kestrel was present with 8 Fieldfare further down. In Methersgate another Kestrel was seen near the hall, this time a female along with a female Sparrowhawk that flew from Tyburnhill Plantation. A Common Buzzard flew over News Hill. At the footpath sign that leads from the road to Methersgate Quay a Stoat came as close as a metre, giving superb views of this smart mammal. Along the footpath to the quay in a field of stubble, a flock of larks flew up and landed close by, these were mainly Skylarks, with 2 Woodlark. Further down 18 Curlew were in another field.
From Methersgate Quay 8 Avocet were seen flying down the River Deben, with Shelduck, Wigeon, Redshank, Herring Gull, 4 Little Grebe and a single Great Crested Grebe.
January 5th
At Bromeswell Green woodland a pair of Bullfinch were seen along with a Marsh Tit. On entering Bromeswell, along Common Lane, there were 8 Curlew in the field to the right.
January 2nd
The first visit of the new year to the River Deben at Melton on a blustery day with patches of sun and the odd shower of rain. Birds present were Redshank, 350+ Dunlin, Shelduck, Curlew, Lapwing, Turnston, Black-headed Gull, Mallard, Herring Gull, a single Great Black-backed Gull, Little Grebe and 2 Greenshank - 1 flying down river by the sewage works and the other by Wilford Bridge. On the Match Lakes were Tufted Duck, Pochard and Coot.