A BLACK REDSTART ON PENDLE HILL this evening was my first there for years and a great find by Mark Breaks and Gareth Morgan. I was lucky to see it before it disappeared just before dusk, presumably roosting somewhere in the rocks of the landslide area. At least seven Ring Ouzels were feeding on the same slope along with a couple of Northern Wheatears. A very nice collection of spring migrants! The day had started with a walk along the river where seven Goosanders were notable but not much else. Several Common Chiffchaffs were singing and around 70 Sand Martins were along the riverbanks prospecting nesting sites. A lovely male Common Ringed Plover at Alston Wetland at lunchtime was a welcome addition to the ELOC little year although there will be plenty more of them in the next few weeks. With light southeasterlies and high pressure the dotties must be due on Pendle any day now! Maybe tomorrow? Let's hope so!

ELOC year list: 113. Common Ringed Plover 114. Black Redstart

PENDLE HILL BLACK RED