Ringstone Reservoir Barkisland (Sat)

I had a 'free' afternoon today so I drove up from Halifax to Ringstone Reservoir just for a change.

Hefty downpours all the way there but luckily as I got out of the car to put me boots and waterproofs on the sky brightened and it turned out to be mostly a fine and dry outing.

Quit windy with big dark clouds looming and some big white clouds punching them out of the road.

Wet as I was leaving.

It was really nice to chat with PD, LD, JB and his better half here today.

Birds:-

(This is not Whiteholme).

6 Swallow.

1 Common Sandpiper on the NW shore and also on the east side - presumed to be the same bird.

1 Tufted Duck.

Heron.

A burbling heard overhead - a Skylark.

c10 Lesser Black-backed Gull.

1 Common Gull.

A few Black Headed Gull.

Stock Dove over - probably.

I picked up a Raptor as I was taking to PD but soon lost it again.

I though Sparrowhawk - but PD picked it out and watched it for a short period.

A possible Merlin.

I tried a quick photo but it was too quick.

Raven. (Maybe 2).

Kestrel.

Lapwing in amongst the east side stones.

2 Pied Wagtail.

Chiffchaff.

Canada Geese.

c10 Meadow Pipits - nearby - probably load airborne!

3 Great Crested Grebe.

A big storm in the offing tomorrow afternoon into Monday might bring in a scarce Gull or Wader?

Should be a Raptor somewhere in here

But I can't see one!