Early start in the moorlands

Today signalled the start of survey season for me (in the field at least as preparations started months ago), and I was up early to cover part of the Roaches bird survey I co-ordinate for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.  I arrived before dawn to see the first light of the day creep across the iconic landscape.

After a couple of hours I'd completed the survey and finally year ticked willow warbler (yes its taken me this long).  Also new for the year was stonechat and red grouse.  The latter of these seemed to be absolutely everywhere within my 1km square.

Before heading back to the office I called in at a local breeding lapwing site.  Along with the county bird recorder at West Midland Bird Club, I'm co-ordinating a breeding lapwing survey across Staffordshire so all the records will help gain a clear picture of where the species occurs.  At least 6 pairs were present along with 3 pairs of curlew and my first wheatear of the year.  If you've seen a breeding lapwing in the county, make sure you report it - www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/lapwing2014

It was then back to the office at the Wolseley Centre for the official opening of the new bird hide, built entirely by the Trust's volunteers.  Along with a pair of reed bunting on the feeder, there are chiffchaff and blackcap all around.

Find out more about the Roaches here - www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/reserves/the-roaches