Moorland Birding

Started off the day at Coombes Valley RSPB reserve just outside Leek although a little early we still thought it worth a bash and see what Summer migrants had arrived.

As we walked into the valley plenty of Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were seen plus a single Black Cap thrown in for good measure.

Along the meadow we had a all too brief view of a Common Redstart a wonderful male as well which was a nice tick for the year, around the pond although we gave it a while the male Pied Flycatcher was no where to be seen, although having already seen the one opposite the Dickturpin pub in the Westlands I wasn't too bothered.

We then headed for the moors properly it was rather windy on top around the Roaches with nothing really on show apart from plenty of Meadow Pipit and the odd Red Grouse, everything else had more sense and was staying out of the wind.

Crossing Axe Edge again more Grouse were seen and the weather was clearing, by the time we reached Dane Bower it was sunny although still cool, with plenty of Wheater on show.