The Osprey which has been in the area for the weeks is still being seen regulary at Brockholes, particularly in the mornings when it often catches a fish on the reserve before landing out of sight in trees along the river in Redscar Woods.

Migrants continue to pass through - over the last week, these have included Tree Pipits, Yellow Wagtail, Redstart, Willow Warblers and Spotted Flycatcher.

Some of these migrant include birds which will remain with us throughout the Winter. Wildfowl numbers in particular have started to increase, with Gadwall and Tufted Duck, Shoveller, Teal and Wigeon now easily found. Lapwing numbers are also increasing significantly, with almost 400 birds on site at the moment.

From The Lookout, a Water Rail was highlight of the week, seen briefly running along the water's edge in front of the In Focus shop, from where 6 Great Crested Grebes including 4 of this year's juveniles are still on constant view. Around The Lookout, small passerine are joining together in to the flocks with which they will spend the Winter. This morning (Friday), a mixed flock of Long-tailed, Great and Blue Tits included at least a couple of Chiffchaffs. The Goldfinch flock numbering 60 or more birds is still feeding on the thistle and other seed heads.

Mammals seen from the Lookout this week were Brown Hare, Red Fox and Roe Deer. The Roe Deer in particular have been showing well, drinking from the water's edge on No.1 Pit, and often running across the front of The Lookout window.