Calf Hey.....

0730hrs - 0900hrs - misted out with vis down to 100 yards at times.
Birds: Crossbill (2) a pair flew into Hartley house Planting, then crossed over to Top O'th Knoll and then within about 10 minutes made there way back to Hartley House. Meadow Pipit (3) went through SE, Goldfinch (3), BHG (9) on res. Tawny Owl - heard screeching above Lower Ormerods. Greenfinch (1)E. Mallard (3) all female on res. Large Goldcrest party in Top O'th Knoll. Coal Tits and Long Tailed Tits calling. Chaffinch (2) and a Song Thrush below Bentley House.
Insects: Green Veined White B (1)

Bentley House Ruins & illicit Whisky Tales

1300-1600hrs From Calf Hey Car Park to Bentley House and then back to St Stephens Churchyard (original site) and back to Calf Hey Car park....
Birds: House Martin - approx 30 plus over feeding up high over reservoir. Approx 50 Black Headed Gulls on reservoir. 1 female Mallard on reservoir. A late Willow Warbler calling from around Bentley House, Great Spotted Woodpecker calling near to Bentley House. Meadow Pipit (1), Swallow (5) over reservoir.
Insects: Common Darter Dragonfly (click over photo), also Immature Male Common Darter, Small Copper Butterfly - very fresh and superb condition (see photo), Speckled Wood Butterfly (1) Wall Brown Butterfly (in St. Stephens old Churchyard) Green Veined White B (10), Peacock (2) at Lower Ormerods, Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly (1) at Lower Ormerods.

Flora (Fungi) The largest Field Mushroom I have ever seen at approx 6" cap diameter and fresh (field between Hartley House and Lower Ormerods) Amanita umbrinolutea, Laccaria amethystea (young), Laccaria amethystea (underside), Laccaria amethystea (matured), Unidentified -Calf Hey prob Russellac .

Bentley House (To see photos of Bentley House Ruins Click Here

Not long ago, there always bred, Common Redstart and Spotted Flycatcher in the close proximity to Bentley House, though I have not seen any of these around for sometime now. Willow Warbler still breeds very close. In the distant past also Wood Warbler and Tree Pipit were regular summer visitors.. and a regular Winter visitor to the Alder copsed area beneath Bentley House where parties of Redpoll.

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Bentley House does have some striking history, especially in regards to "illicit whisky distilling" which took place during the mid , 1800's - Here is a article published in the Blackburn Standard - May 20th 1857:

ILLICIT DISTILLATION OF WHISKY..... On Saturday at the Court-house, Haslingden, Jonathan Haworth, farmer, Bentley House, Haslingden Grane, was charged by Mr. Ellis Heath, supervisor of the Inland Revenue in the Blackburn Division, with being the proprietor of an unlicensed still for the manufacture of illicit whisky. Mr. Clough, who appeared for the Board of Inland Revenue, stated that this was one of the most compact and connected private distilleries which had been brought to light, at any rate in this neighbourhood; and but for the vigilance of the officers of the Board, it might have been carried on for a length of time without detection. At eleven o'clock on the night of 3rd April last, Mr. Ellis Heath, accompanied by the officers, went to the house of the defendant, which is situated at an unfrequented and isolated part of the township of Haslingden. On going into the house, the officers proceeded to a square weaving shop, but observed nothing there by two pairs of looms. On examining the room above that they found it was a much larger room. They descended again to the weaving shop, and tapped the wall, which defendant said was a gable end of the house. They found the mortar soft, but yet it corresponded with the other walls of the chamber. On looking at the flags they found that they had only breen freshly laid. A few were taken up and after taking up a quantity of earth, an arched entrance cut out of the solid rock was discovered with an aperture just sufficient for one person to enter in a creeping position. On the officers entering the chamber by this, the only entrance, they found a new still and every apparatus requisite for the manufacture of illicit spirits, with a number of tubs, a quantity of wash, &c., which were immediately seized and conveyed to a place of safety. The flue of the fireplace in the room had been cut out of the rock and taken below the floor of the weaving shop and house until a junction was formed with the chimney of the house, so that one flue only could be seen to emit smoke. With the stone cut from the flue the partition wall of the weaving shop had been built so that no material had to be brought to the house, --Mr. Ellis Heath and others proved the case and the bench inflicted a mitigated penalty of £50 and costs, in default of payment to be imprisoned during her Majesty's pleasure. -- On the 7th ult., the defendant had been convicted of being on the premises where illicit whisky was found and convicted in £30 and costs, in default to go to prison for three months. The prisoner then sold ten head of cattle and went to prison. The seizure reflects great credit on the vigilance of the officers and will do much to check illicit distillation in this neighbourhood.

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Jonathan Haworth and his Wife Alice are buried at St. Stephens Church Old Site, near Crowtrees and here is photo of gravestone (click here).

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At the side of Bentley House runs the old road which was the original road over Bentley Moss and made its way to Bolton, the gatepost at the sides of Bentley House does still have it engraved "To Bolton", I have taken photos (click here) and tried to highlight the Bolton in blue chalk so you can easily make it out....

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Clough Head - Calf Hey - Top O'th Knoll

1200hrs - 1345hrs Walk from Clough Head car park down to Calf Hey House Car Park and then on to Top O'th Knoll and return....

Birds: Canada Goose (51) in field below Crowtrees (old burial grounds) at side of Ogden Res, and here there was also about 50 Swallows feeding up. Also Swallow (6) one party going out West.. Blackbird (2), Crossbill (1) to Top O'th Knoll Planting. Robin (1), Goldfinch (1), Great Spotted Woodpecker (1) calling on way to Top O'th Knoll.

Insects: Speckled Wood B (3), Peacock B (1), Gatekeeper B (4), Small Skipper B (3), Meadow Brown B (2), Green Veined White B (7).... Flora: Red Campion, Herb Robert, Common Knapweed, Hedge Woundwort, White Clover, Yarrow, Yellow Rattle.

(Photo: A well worn Speckled Wood at Clough Head today, and a well worn Gatekeeper from Top O'th Knoll today)

Troy Quarry.. Crossbill, Butterflies & Damselflies....

1000hrs - 1200hrs.

Birds: Crossbill (1) left Heap Clough plantings and calling whilst heading SW into the Calf Hey. Also a Willow Warbler (1) at Troy. Approx 50-60 mixed party of Swallow and House Martin, hawking very low at times, Chaffinch (1).

Butterflies: Peacock (1), Small Tortoiseshell (1), Small Skipper (3), Green Veined White (3), Small Heath (1), Meadow Brown (2), Large White B (1). Common Darter Dragonfly (1), a Blue coloured damselfly plus others not identified. Flora: Eyebright. Amphibian: Small Frogs (3/4") (photos: Peacock & Small Skipper Butterflies - click image for supersize).

Grane Brick & Terra Cotta Works...

A few years ago, around the Higher Doles area I found some of the old bricks which had been manufactured at Grane Brickworks at the turn of 19th Century and have posted a photo here (click on photo to enlarge)... the bricks are probably still there. Here are some old notes on the opening of the brickworks in 1895:

(Taken from the Haslingden Guardian Sat Sept 28th 1895)
A NEW INDUSTRY FOR HASLINGDEN, GRANE BRICK & TERRA COTTA WORKS

Mr. J. H. Maden, M.P. for the Rossendale division, christened two engines of the new Haslingden Grane Brick and Terracotta Company, and act the same in motion on Saturday last. One engine was named Alice after Mr. Maden’s wife, and the other was called Maud, after Mr. John Haworth’s daughter. Mr Maden subsequently shovelled about a dozen spadefulls of shale into the mixing pan, and took out the first bricks made. The ceremony was witnessed by the Directors and their wives. Mr. Foster of Clayton-le-Moors is the organizer of the Company, and Mr. Maden is also one of the Directors.
THE PROJECT
The Project was first mooted by Mr. Thomas Foster of Clayton-le-Moors. It is about a year ago since he rented the land, knowing its value at that time by reason of the shale thereon. His experience as Director in other concerns had served him well in this instance. A Company was formed to work the place, the Capital being £8,000. The Company were fortunate to secure the advantages of the services of Mr. John Smith whose long experience under his father in Holland’s Brickworks, Accrington is of the greatest utility. He has become Managing Director of the Company. Mr. Maden M.P. is also a Director. The Chairman of the Company is Mr. John Haworth of Accrington.
CUTTING THE FIRST SOD
The Cutting of the first sod was performed on the 11th May last. There was no public ceremony but it may prove to be a first step in the starting of a new and most successful endeavour. The situation chosen for the works is some distance above Grane Church, and a addition to the working population of Grane, would be greatly welcomed. The extent of the ground to be worked is 1 1/3rd Acres, but the company have secured the rights to shale for a radius of 4 miles of their present works. The shale is of a very fine nature and from it a superior brick and terra cotta is to be manufactured.
THE PRESENT WORKS
The present works consist of a boiler house, engine house, machine house, and grinding house. They are erected in red brick, and are easily accessible, facing the turnpike. The boiler is 37ft by 7ft. No.1 Grinding mill is 9ft in diameter. The engines which can be worked up to 90 horse power, are by Bellhouse of Manchester. The machinery is of the latest patent and is applied by Messrs. C. Whittaker & Co. of Accrington. It is expected as the works now stand, a turn out of 500 bricks a hour can be effected. There is now only one machine, but other four are expected. Mr. Bolton, the owner of the Haslingden Grane Quarries had promised to give the company facilities by connecting the works with his railway siding. Of course the hands now employed are few in number, but they are soon expected to be reckoned by the score.
THE INSPECTION OF THE WORKS
Mr. Maden, M.P., in company with his steward, Mr. Mr. Hargreaves, made an early arrival, and made a thorough inspection of the place, asking numerous questions and taking the greatest interest in all details. The Directors, their wives and friends arrived somewhat later. The company included Messrs. John Haworth, Chairman of the Company, Accrington; Thomas Foster, Clayton-le-Moors; William Myers Hall, James Lund, Taylor Crawshaw and Adam Shaw (Haslingden). Among the ladies were, Mrs. Haworth, Mrs. Foster, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Smith.
CHRISTENING THE ENGINES
Mr. John Smith, the Managing Director, having placed wine in readiness for the baptizing of the engines, said the Directors thought something should be done to celebrate the event of that day, and it was unanimously decided that they should ask Mr. Maden to perform the ceremony of christening the engines.
Mr. Maden amidst the applause of the company, then turned on the steam and set the engines in motion, and christened them as stated.
THE BRICK MAKING PROCESS
Mr. Smith then took the company to the grinding house, and called upon Mr. Maden to put in the first spadeful of shale. Mr. Maden, handling the shovel in a workmanlike, put in a dozen or more spadefuls of Shale.
The directors followed suit, and each of the ladies took a turn.
The first bricks were subsequently made.
Mr. John Ashworth said it gave him much pleasure to accord Mr. Maden the best thanks of the company for his attendance and for the performance of the interesting ceremonies of that day. He seemed to be so homely and to shape so well at work, that he was more like a practical working man than an M.P. He hoped the firm would prosper from that day forth, if it were only for the sake of the ladies, for if it did not they would be down on to them “like a thousand bricks” (laughter). It afforded him much pleasure to move a vote of thanks to Mr. Maden (applause)
Mr. Smith seconded, and remarked that at one time they thought they would not be able to get Mr. Maden , as he had been suffering from a cold, and had been under medical treatment. He was glad to see him better and there that day (applause). He (Mr Smith) hoped the works would prove a great success, and a benefit to the landlord and the people of the neighbourhood. He hoped that in time Mr. Maden would see his way to put up a good brick works and that there would be more and more employment brought to that place. Their best thanks were due to Mr. Maden for his attendance and the honour of his services that day (Applause).
The vote having been presented –
Mr. Maden M.P., said he was much obliged for their vote of thanks. He had learned something coming up there, and he was very glad to see there was energy being put forth to help to bring more employment to that benighted quarter of Grane. Mr. Smith had referred to him as being the landlord. But he only represented the real owners, for aunts and cousins of his owned the land. However, he was sure that they would only be too glad to help in fostering a industry and bringing more employment to the people of that district. He should be glad to do anything he could at anytime, and he hoped the concern would prove a great success and would be extended from time to time. He thanked them for their vote (applause).
Mr. Smith pointed out that the machine was one of the finest at present made and that the pressure they would be able to bring to bear upon the bricks, from 60 to 120 tons, would made them the hardest and most useful turned out of any factory.
This concluded the proceedings at the Works.
The Mayor of Haslingden has given the Company an order for 100,000 bricks.
(Thanks to John Simpson of Helmshore, who kindly provided the above factual information.)

Crossbills, Family of Stonechats at Troy...

1200hrs-1400hrs. Walked from Heap Clough to Crowtrees and then back along towards Priestentax and Troy Quarry. A Green Woodpecker at Heap Clough which made over towards Crowtrees. Had a party of Crossbill went over very high, near Clough Head. Had a family party of 5 Stonechat at rear of Troy Quarry also had, Meadow Pipit (5), Swallow (7) probably local, plus Linnet (10), Magpie 1... also

Insects: Green Veined White (10), Meadow Brown (1) and Brown Hawker Dragonfly. (Photos of Troy Quarry and Eyebright -- click on image to enlarge) Flora: Lady's Bedstraw, Eyebright, Heath Groundsel.

Peacocks, Small Torts, Gatekeepers etc etc - Calf Hey 150808

1400hrs to 1600hrs. Calf Hey - West side Thistles and Top O'th Knoll areas.

Insects: Peacock (1) and 1st this year.. (click on photo to enlarge), Small Tortoiseshell (8), Gatekeeper (22) along side of pathway around W. of Hartley House, a lot on thistle to W of Calf Hey, again on the sides of the footpath and finally a small cluster on the path in front of Top O'th Knoll... none today at colony site (near mushroom timber sculptures), Small Heath (1), Small Skipper (15), Meadow Brown (16), Green Veined White (20), Large White (2).... also Common Green Grasshopper.

Birds: Willow Warbler (1)

Flora: Meadows Cranesbill, Tormentil, Foxglove.

Calf Hey Reservoir & North West of Calf Hey

3 Photos of Calf Hey Reservoir and also 2 of the lovely spot North West of Calf Hey. The photos where taken on 5th May 2006. This is a old farmstead link road...

Gatekeeper Colony at Top O'th Knoll....

Birds: Wheatear (1) at Pike Lowe, Bullfinch (1) at rear of Top O'th Knoll Planting, Willow Warbler (1) in 3/4 song at rear of Top O'th Knoll, also Meadow Pipit (1), Robins (3), Goldfinch (4), Swallows at least 20 could have been more.. probably local but not sure. Kestrel (1), Pied Wagtail (2), Coal Tit.

Insects: A superb new colony of a minimum of 20 Gatekeepers feeding on heather, crowberry and thistle at rear of Top O'th Knoll Planting near too the wood mushroom sculptures, also there was some more alongside the pathway at the front side of Top O'th Knoll.. here there was also 4 Small Skippers, a couple of Meadow Browns and 1 Large White. Throughout walk I had about 15 Green Veined Whites.. and the bonus was another Red Admiral (only my 2nd this year) quite close to Stoney Rake...

Bird Records for the Grane Valley & Its Surrounding Areas (Compiled in 1999 with few additions since)

BIRDS OF GRANE
INCLUDING: ALDEN/MUSBURY
HASLINGDEN & OSWALDTWISTLE MOORS

(First published 1987 – revised 1999)
To make a clearer picture of the status of the Birds of Grane, I have taken the liberty to obtain some historical records (the only ones available), these are notes by the late C.K. Parker, Oakes & Battersby, B. Horam, also The Lancashire Bird Reports, Mr. Mitchell and Mr. K.G. Spencer.
Besides my own records I have included many records offered to me by my good friends. In particular I would like to make a special thanks to Neil Burke. I would also like to thank Nigel Higson, Ian Brady, Craig and Brian Bell, The late Mr. Brian Bispham, Bernard Dunn, Steve Duckworth, Eric Ward and Jim Ormerod, Bernard Addison, John Hollinrake, Alan Johnson, Roger Kennedy, Charlie Payne, Bill Monk, Jim Rostron, The late Mr. Ray Wright, David Thomas, Arnold Wade, Glyn Haworth, The Countryside Rangers, The North West Water Bailiffs, Rossendale Ornithologist Club, Members of the Haslingden & District Fly Fishing Club, Mrs.Jackie Ramsbottom whom for a long time ran the Information Centre and the many people who have so kindly offered their casual bird records from time to time.

Bryan Yorke
May 1999.
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BLACK THROATED DIVER (Gavia artica) One present on Holden Wood Reserver December 26th/27th 2000 (NB & GH). HW Reservoir froze over the following day, and the bird was then seen on Ogden up to 29th(JH).

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER (Gavia immer) A single bird present on Ogden Reservoir for several days from 12th November 1978. (Rossendale Ornithologist Club Report). One present on Ogden Reservoir 25th January 1998 (ROC).

LITTLE GREBE (Tachybatus ruficollis) Single bird on Holden Wood Reservoir on 20th April 1985 (ROC) and again a single bird on Ogden Res 3rd January 1987, and probably that same bird still present yet this time on Calf Hey Res 7-29th January 1987 and left by the first freeze over. One on Holden Wood Reservoir – 10th February 1988. One present during the Winter of 1990. One present on Holden Wood Res 8th July and also 19th September 1992.(ROC). Bred at Holden Vale Flash during 1993. One on Holden Vale Flash during June 1994. A nest with 5 eggs was found on Holden Vale Flash 11th June 1994 (ROC). A single bird was seen at Holden Wood Res on 11th October 1998 and at Calf Hey Res on 22nd October and 3rd November 1998 (ROC).

GREAT CRESTED GREBE (Podiceps cristatus) Pair on Holden Wood Reservoir 4th April 1971 (Neil Burke). A pair on Ogden Reservoir, thought to have bred 28th May 1973 (NB). Single on Ogden 12th November 1977 (ROC), Singles at Grane 18th March and lst, 15th and 16th April 1979 (ROC), single at Grane the whole of March until 4th April 1980 (ROC). A single of this species shot at Holden Wood Reservoir during February 1981. Single adult on Holden Wood Reservoir March 26th and 27th 1986 in close company with single Pochard. Single present on Holden Wood Reservoir on Sept 12th 1987 in close company with single Tufted Duck. 4 on Calf Hey 20th March 1988. 4 on Holden Wood 7th April 1980. A pair seen on Ogden Reservoir 23rd and 25th May 1989 (ROC). Pair bred on Holden Wood Reservoir 1990 with two young (possibly three). Present on Holden Wood Res during May 1990. Breeding confirmed at Holden Wood with 1 juvenile 1991. 4 on Holden Wood Res on 15th March 1992 when courtship and aggressive activity between rival males was in full progress. Second hand information suggested that eggs had been stolen from the nest at Holden Wood Res 1992 (ROC).Successful breeding at Holden Wood 1993. A pair settled on Holden Wood Res by 14th May 1994 and seen regularly up until 9th July 1994 (ROC). Present on Holden Wood Res and Ogden during Spring and Autumn 1996- though no indication of breeding. One arrived back at Ogden in late March 1997 and was seen on various dates up to 25th April. Two birds were present on Ogden from May through to the 6th June, then only one bird by 19th June. One was incubating eggs at Holden Wood on 11th May and 3 other adults were present. One adult was later found dead, possibly killed by a mink, on 26th June 1997 the nest had been disturbed. (ROC). One had returned to Holden Wood by 13th February 1998 and a pair was present on 15th March. Nesting was successful. The nest had 3eggs on 4th May from which 2 eggs hatched. An adult and one young bird were seen on 24thJune and again on 15th July 1998 (ROC). Present at Holden Wood in May 2002 although no evidence of breeding.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE (Podiceps nigricollis) One was present at Calf Hey on 19th and 20th August 1995 (ROC).

RED NECKED GREBE (Podiceps grisengena) Two birds of this species were present all day at Ogden Reservoir and observed very close up with ‘minnows in bill’ on January 17th 1987. I have not been able to find any previous records for this species present in Rossendale and the probable reason for this rare occurrence was the exceptional freezing up weather during 1987 within the Baltic regions, this bringing many more birds into this Country, and many other reports came to light throughout Northern England around this time.

SLAVONIAN GREBE (Podiceps auritus) One reported shot on ‘Grane Reservoir’ in February 1903 or 1904? (C.K. Parker), this was subsequently regarded as an unconfirmed report (Oakes & Battersby).

CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax carba) One was shot near to Holden Wood Reservoir in August 1915(C..K. Parker), one on Ogden Reservoir in November and December 1968(ROC), One flew over Ogden Res on 13th September 1981 (ROC). One on Holden Wood Res 10th Oct 1986 and present most of the morning (Nigel Higson). A single bird flew high up over the Grane Valley 0915hrs East to West on April 12th 1987. One present on Ogden Res 25th July and present for several days. I witnessed an extraordinary and interesting record on 18th Sept 1988 when a close party of 10 birds preceded by some 30yards a party of 17 Pink Footed Geese obviously on East-West migration following the path of the Grane Valley. A party of 35 birds in small rafts proceeded up the Grane Valley on 13th December 1990. 2 present on Ogden Res during July 1992. One on Ogden Res from 25th Oct through November and again on 14th and 16th December 1994 (ROC). A single present on Ogden Res on 22nd January 1995 and seen throughout February and then on Holden Wood on 1st March 1995 (ROC). One present at Ogden on 18th September and 13th October 1996 (ROC). One on Ogden 16th November 1997 (ROC).There were singles on Ogden on 9th August and 11th October 1998 and also at Holden Wood on 6th December 1998 (ROC). Now becoming very common and seen almost on a weekly basis outside its breeding period 2002-2003.

GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea) A very common visitor and seen almost daily on one or other of the Reservoirs. A juvenile bird was reported shot and found at the side of the Ogden Reservoir during 1986, the bird was taken to Haslingden Police Station. 6 at Musbury on 6th April 1996 and 7 on Holden Wood on 18th August 1996 (ROC).

MUTE SWAN (Cygnus olor) A occasional visitor. 4 first year juveniles present on Ogden Res on the morning only of 26th January 1987. A single bird was present on Holden Wood Res on 4th and 5th May 1990. One was seen regular on Holden Wood and Ogden Reservoirs between 9th May and 23rd June 1997 (ROC).

BEWICK SWAN (Cygnus bewickii) A single bird was present at Calf Hey Reservoir for at least 3 days during the Winter of 1987.

WHOOPER SWAN (Cygnus cygnus) 4 on Ogden Res (2 adults and 2 imm) on 11th November 1984. Two of this species were present on Holden Wood Reservoir during the last week of December 1985, one of these birds was later found shot dead, youths with airguns are believed responsible. Two overhead of Ogden Reservoir flying SW to NE 0700hrs on March 16th 1986. One on Ogden Rs 7th Jan 1988(IB), One on Ogden Res 25th December 1988. 5 present on Holden Wood Reservoir on 15th December 1991. A single bird present on Calf Hey Res on 13th December 1992.

LESSER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (Anser erythropus) A single bird presumably an escape – was seen with the Canada Geese at Grane from 28th June to the end of the year 1997 (ROC). Seen again early 1998 up to 13th February and then absent until 10th July and then remained to the end of the year (ROC)

PINK FOOTED GOOSE (Anatidae brachyrhynchus) A single bird was flushed from Musbury on 4th January 1981 (ROC), A skein of 17 flew over Ogden Res (E to W) at 10.55hrs on December 17th 1986. 50 flew up the Grane Valley 1000hrs (E to W) 17th January 1987 (Bob then NWWA Bailiff). On 28th January 1987 50 at 0910hrs, 52 at 0915hrs (W to East) over Grane and at 1030hrs approx 100 birds flew (SE to NW) probably the same birds on return from earlier that morning. 44 flew (E to W) on 20th February 1988 (NH). 17 flew (E to W) 18th September 1988 in very close company of 10 preceding Cormorant – very unusual!. One (SE to NW on 29th Sept 1988, 4 (E to W) on 28th October 1988, 11 E to W on 28th October 1988. 80 (NE to SW) on 30th October 1988 (CraigBell). 40 flew West to East over Haslingden Moor on 23rd December 1989 (ROC). 150 flying west over Calf Hey on 19th November 1995 (ROC).

GREYLAG GOOSE (Anser anser) From the 20th March 1995 and throughout the year two birds were present with the Canadas on Ogden Res (ROC). The two birds were seen regular with the flock of Canada Geese at Grane from about the 12th June 1996 up to the end of the year (ROC). The Two birds seen with the Canada’s were present until 7th March 1997. Later in the year a single bird was present from 3rd June to the end of the year (ROC). A single bird present at Grane with the Canadas on dates from January to April and again on 15th June 1998 (ROC).

CANADA GOOSE (Branta canadensis) Several birds on Holden Wood Res on 26th March 1978, took off and flew over Hutch Bank Quarry direction. 3 birds present on Ogden 6th April 1983, these birds stayed up to three weeks. 5 birds present on 22nd May 1983 (ROC). Four landed on Ogden Reservoir and stayed for 10 minutes on March 26th 1986. 7 flew over Holden Wood and Ogden then veered towards Edgeworth 1130hrs on 1st March 1987. Four in reed margins of Holden Wood Res 1213hrs on 25th March 1987. A single bird present on Ogden Reservoir all day on 16th April, then transferred itself to the Holden Wood Res. Two on Ogden Res 17th April 1987. 6 on Holden Wood Res 19th April 1987. 4 on Ogden Res 23rd April 1987 (Jim Rostron). One on Ogden Reservoir lst May 1987. 25 flying low from Darwen over Grane and heading in the Rawtenstall direction 1842hrs on 15th June 1987. 7 on Holden Wood on 15th March 1992 (ROC). 26 on Holden Wood Res on 12th June 1994 (ROC). Most years attempted nest building takes place on the Ogden Reservoir – again in 1995 the eggs were all taken. During 1996 the species bred on Ogden Res with 5 goslings recorded on 9th June. Up to 68 birds had been recorded on one count at Grane by the end of the year. They bred successfully at the Ogden during 1997. 70 present at Holden Wood on 19th October 1997. We believe the colonizing stems from populations established at nearby Wayoh/Entwistle/Jumbles areas. Successful breeding occurred at Ogden Res during 1998 where a pair had 5 goslings during May and were surviving in July (ROC). 60 present on Holden Wood Res early-mid August 2000.

BARNACLE GOOSE (Branta leucopsis) One was with a pair of Canada Geese on Calf Hey on 20th March 1994 (ROC).

BRENT GOOSE (Branta bernicla) An individual of the dark-bellied race was present with 27 Canada Geese and 2 Greylags at Holden Wood on 10th and 17th December 1995. Its origin is unknown and, like the Greylags, it may have been an escaped or feral bird (ROC).

SHELDUCK (Tadorna tadorna) One record of a bird at Ogden Reservoir on 17th July 1968 (ROC), One over Ogden Reservoir 27th January 1988 (Bill Monk). 2 on Ogden Reservoir 29th January 1988. 35 flying East to West over Haslingden Moor on 27th August 1990 (ROC). A pair was seen at Holden Wood Res on 24th January 1993 (ROC).

WIGEON (Anas penelope) Earlier this century it was often seen on Musbury Moor in winter. 5 birds were on Ogden Reservoir on 23rd February 1919 (CKP). A single male was on Holden Wood Reservoir 6th October 1986. One male in eclipse plumage was on Calf Hey 16th October 1986. One on Ogden on 24th January 1987 (NB). 20 birds on passage 27th October 1988. 4 (l male and 3 female) on Holden Wood Reservoir during late March 1991. 5 birds present on Calf Hey on 12th April 1991 (ROC). One at Holden Wood late November 1994. A pair was present on Calf Hey on 5th October 1995. A single bird on Holden Wood on 17th November 1996 (ROC). Present in small numbers at Holden Wood during January and again in October 1997.

TEAL (Anas crecca) One on Ogden Res 18th Dec 1977 (ROC). 2 on Grane Res 22nd Oct 1978 (ROC). 2 on Grane Res on several occasions late September and early October 1979 (ROC). Six on Grane Res 21st Sept 1980. Pair present on Haslingden Moor during breeding season 1982. Three (2 male l female) on Holden Wood Reservoir on 13th March 1987, One pair on Holden Wood Res on 24th March 1987. One flew over valley E to W at 1900hrs on 6th April 1987. A male on Holden Wood Res 5th March 1988. 20 on Ogden Res 6th March 1988. One in flight E-W through valley on 24th September 1988. A pair on Holden Wood Reservoir on 27th December 1988. Two at Grane on 11th November 1989 (ROC). One at Holden Wood Res on 9th August 1990. 5 birds on Holden Wood Res 13th October 1991. 3 on Haslingden/Oswaldtwistle Moor on 30th August 1993. Possibly bred on Haslingden Moor –seen during April and early May 1994 (ROC). 7 present on Holden Wood Res on 18th and 27th August 1997 (ROC). A pair seen at Holden Wood Res on 1st March 1998 (ROC). Present in February and November 2002 at Holden Wood.

CINNAMON TEAL (Anas cyanoptera) A bird of this species, presumably an escape, was seen at Holden Wood on 19th May and 1st June 1993 (ROC).

MALLARD (Anas platyrhynchos) The most common of our wildfowl to frequent the Grane and surrounding areas with odd pairs being seen almost daily, within and outside of the breeding season. I have listed only peak counts: 33 on Ogden Reservoir 14th October 1977, 42 on Ogden Reservoir during 1978/9, 45 on Calf Hey Reservoir on 2nd January 1985, 36 on Ogden Res 28th December 1986. During 1988 at least six pairs bred within the Valley. A female with 6 chicks on Calf Hey Res 21st May 1988. Two separate parties with chicks c6 and c9 were on Calf Hey Res 9th June 1988. 40 on Calf Hey Res on 18th November 1995 (ROC). During October and November 1996 counts up to 100 birds were seen on the Grane Reservoirs. There is little change in the status into the nineties.

PINTAIL (Anas acuta) One seen on Ogden Reservoir showing difficulty with flight and making off down to Holden Wood Reservoir during Spring 1986 (Bill Monk). Single males were recorded at Holden Vale on 30th May and 7th July 1992 (ROC).A female was present on Holden Wood Reservoir on 28th July 1993 (ROC). A female was present on Calf Hey on 22nd Sept 2002 (ROC).

GARGANEY (Anas querquedula) One on Holden Wood Reservoir 28th March 2004.

SHOVELER (Anas clypeata) A male flying over all reservoirs 0900hrs onwards on 31st May 1987 and seen later that day on Holden Wood Flash.

POCHARD (Aythya ferina) A regular Winter visitor to Grane. One male on Calf Hey Res 27th April 1978 (ROC), 3 on Ogden 15th February 1981, 35 on Ogden 10th March 1985. 19 on Holden Wood Reservoir 7th Feb 1986, One in close company of Great Crested Grebe on Holden Wood Res 26th March 1986. A slow build up from a single bird on 2nd Nov 1986 to a peak of 48 by December 3lst 1986 and then a reduction gradually to nil by 7th Jan 1987. 4 on Ogden Res 24th January 1987. 2 birds on Holden Wood Res 4-15th January 1988. A single male on Holden Wood Res 20th to 23rd January 1988. 3 on Ogden 19th February 1987. One on Holden Wood Res in company with Tufted Duck on 2nd March 1987. 3 (2 male 1 female) on Holden Vale Flash March 6th 1987. 3 on Holden Wood Res 17th March 1987. 2 males on Holden Wood Res on 21st March 1987. A very early return for Grane with 1 male on Holden Wood Reservoir on 3rd September 1987 in close company with Tufted Duck. Between 7 and rising to 25 at Holden Wood Res- December 1989 (ROC). 23 on Ogden Res on 14th January 1990 (ROC). 21 present on Holden Wood Res on 3rd March 1991 (ROC). Probably the main water in Rossendale for this species- Counts up to 50 were present on Holden Wood Reservoir on 16th and 23rd February 1992.10 on Holden Wood Res 25th October 1994. Odd birds recorded during September and November 1996. Only odd birds seen during the latter part of the year 1998. This species has certainly thinned out in more recent times in this area with just odds and sods reported usually on Holden Wood 2002.

RING-NECKED DUCK (Aythya collaris) A male was present at Holden Wood Res on 12th January 1992 and seen again on 16th February 1992 also seen again later in the year during mid-November (ROC). A bird re-appeared at Holden Wood on 12th September 1993 and thereafter was seen up to the end of the year (ROC). Seen on periodic visits throughout the year on the Reservoirs during 1994 and 1995.

TUFTED DUCK (Aythya fuligula) 45 on Ogden Res 7th Sept 1968 (ROC). A single male on Ogden Res 26th Aug 1980. A single male on Holden Wood Res 15th April 1986. Two paired present on Calf Hey Res 24th May 1986. Birds in small numbers were present during November, December and January (up to 10th) 1987 with a peak at that time of 6 on December 24th 1986. Odd birds present on all reservoirs during January, February and March 1987. The first return dates was September 3rd 1987 with 1 male and 1 female on Holden Wood Res. One on Holden Wood Reservoir on September 12th 1987 in close company with Great Crested Grebe. Odd birds present during the early part of 1989 on Holden Wood Res. 9 birds present on Holden Wood Res during December 1991. A flock of 20-30 birds was present at Holden Wood Res during January reducing to 6 in early February 1992 – a pair was still present on 15th March 1992- Nesting occurred for the second year in this area and in July a pair was seen with 4 young on Holden Vale pond (ROC). Bred during 1993. 28 on Ogden Reservoir on 6th November 1994. Present on all 3 reservoirs at various times throughout 1995 and 1996. Two pairs were present on Holden Wood Reservoir from May until July 1997 – one pair probably attempted breeding but failed (ROC). Seen regular at Holden Wood during 1998 though no concrete evidence of breeding.

SCAUP (Aythya marila) In earlier years several were reported shot at “ the reservoir on Haslingden Moor” (Mitchell). Two being shot on 2nd June 1887, and two more on 24th November 1890 (K.G. Spencer). A female at Haslingden Grane, November 12th and 13th 1978 (ROC).

COMMON SCOTER (Melanitta nigra) A female present on Calf Hey Reservoir on 23rd May 1985. A male present on Ogden Reservoir June 3rd 1987 and later seen on Calf Hey Res the following day.

GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) A female on Grane 12th November 1978, 3 males on 13th November 1978 (ROC), A male at Grane on lst April 1979 (ROC) . 2 females at Grane on 18th October 1980. One at Grane 15th March 1981. One on 15th November 1981. A male present at Grane 5th December 1982. A female present on Holden Wood Flash on December 29th until mid January 1987 – the bird last seen on Holden Wood Reservoir. A pair present on Ogden Res 1730hrs on 10th March 1987. A single female was on Calf Hey on 27th March 1989. (ROC) and singles were seen on Holden Wood Res on 6th December 1989 (ROC).A flock of 18 on Calf Hey during mid November 1990 – probably largest number recorded (ROC). Present on Calf Hey during October and December 1992 (ROC). A single female was present at Calf Hey on 14th February 1993. Seen on Holden Wood Res during the Winter months. Odd birds reported during the Winter months of 1996. Seen at Calf Hey during the winter of 1998.

GOOSANDER (Mergus merganser) Seven birds wintered on Ogden Reservoir during 1970. A male on Ogden 21st February 1971 (NB). A single male was on Calf Hey Reservoir on 15th May 1973 (ROC). A single male on Ogden Res 7th February 1986. Six females on Haslingden Grane lst January 1985 (ADS/DES), One female on Ogden 6th January 1987. One male on Ogden 8th February 1987 (IB). One male on Ogden 18th February 1987. One male on Ogden lst March 1987 (IB). One male and four females on Holden Wood on 2nd March 1987 and joined by immature male on the 3rd. One male and three female on Ogden on 14th March 1987. One male and 3 female on Holden Wood Res 23rd and 24th March 1987. A pair on Calf Hey and later Holden Wood on 28th March 1987. There was 4 birds on 5th February rising to 18 by the 19th February 1989 on Ogden Reservoir (ROC). Present on all reservoirs during Winter of 1990. 7 at Ogden on lst December 1991 (ROC). 5 were on Ogden Reservoir on 24th December 1992 when Holden Wood Res was frozen over. Present during the Winter months 1993 with up to 12 birds.8 on Holden Wood Res 20th February 1994 (ROC). The species was recorded on Holden Wood and Ogden during December 1996. Seen in small numbers at Grane during the Winter of 1998. It is very probable that many visits we get at Grane are birds which also frequent the Wayor/Entwistle and Anglezarke Reservoirs. The species is a regular visitor to the Grane during the harder Winter months.

RUDDY DUCK (Oxyura jamaicensis) A single male at Holden Wood Reservoir on 29th September 1992 was a first for Rossendale. It remained until the 2nd or 3rd October 1992 (ROC).

RED KITE (Milvus milvus) One was at Calf Hey on 1st November 2005

HEN HARRIER (Circus cyaneus) One flying over Haslingden Moor on 21st September 1978 (ROC). One male flew NE from Musbury over Haslingden on 23rd April 1984 (Brian Bispham). One female being haressed by crows on Oswaldtwistle Moor on May 9th 1987 flying off towards the Cribden direction. A female was seen over Rushy Hill on 14th July 1991 (ROC). A female was seen near Pickup Bank on 5th April 1992. A ringtail was seen near Pickup Bank on 21st March 1998. I have seen both adults and ringtail birds of this species over the years quartering over the Pike Lowe areas during their Spring and Autumn migrations. A female in the Alden and Musbury area on 4th & 29th January and also on the 14th April 2002 (J&B. R), 18th Sept 2008 a ringtail was over Priestentax (BY & CP), a bird was on Bentley Moss 1st Oct 2008 (GH-Ranger)

MARSH HARRIER (Circus aeruginosus) One flew across the top end of Grane on 2nd May 1997 (ROC).

GOSHAWK (Accipiter gentilis) One was seen soaring over Pickup Bank on 27th March 1994 (ROC). An escaped bird with jesses was seen in display flight over Grane on April 20th 1996 (NB). Seen also during 1998 and 1999. A bird was found dead in the planting alongside the bay of Ogden Reservoir during the Spring of 2003, death thought to be a overrun hunting attack on a local grey squirrel. (Countryside Ranger)

SPARROWHAWK (Accipiter nisus) Bred in Grane in 1936 (Birds of East Lancashire) . The area of Grane has been a stronghold of this species for many years and its known to have bred in most years. The area probably supports up to 3 pairs. One male found shot dead on 29th March 1986 (NB) and a female found dead under nest at Grane in 1987 (NB). On 13th December 1996 one killed a Fieldfare at Musbury (ROC). Seen regularly in Grane during the nineties.

HONEY BUZZARD (Pernis apivorous) One seen over Heap Clough on 12th May 2007.

BUZZARD (Buteo buteo) In the Spring of 1913 there was evidence of a pair roosting in the area (Oakes & Battersby). One on 7th Sept 1968 (ROC). One at Grane early October 1986. A single at Calf Hey in Spring 1985. There were 2 records of birds on passage, one on 9th May 1995 over Holden Wood and one over Deep Clough on 27th August 1995. On Spring passage one was seen over Musbury Tor on 3rd April 1996 (ROC). During Autumn 1996 one was present in the Alden Valley on 22nd September and 1st October. One was seen over Ogden and Holden Wood Reservoirs on 3rd July 1997 (ROC). A single bird thought to be of this species seen soaring above the Information Centre on 31st April 1999 (Countryside Rangers). One over Musbury on 8th July 2002 (ROC).

ROUGH LEGGED BUZZARD (Buteo lagopus) A male was seen being chased by a Merlin on Haslingden Grane on October 11th 1880 and was shot by J. Hoyle (Birds of East Lancashire).

OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) A second-hand report of one over Holcombe during May 1982 (ROC). One flew over the Grey Mare Pub near Haslingden Grane on 10th October 1984 (B.Bell). One on April 27th 1987 flying with fish in talons from Grane direction and alighted on Thirteen Stone Hill on Haslingden Moor and later when disturbed flew off still carrying its prey in the Burnley direction (1730hrs). I checked out the site where I saw the bird feeding and was able to collect several fish scales which turned out to be Roach. Several weeks later after talking to some fishermen they reported having seen the bird on Holden Wood Reservoir that same day. During 1997 two separate sightings were reported by anglers at Grane during mid-August on different days- one over Ogden Reservoir attempted to catch a fish then flew into Kings Hillock Wood – One flew over Haslingden Moor on 21st September 1997. One seen during the last week of April 1999 over the Grane Area (JR). The species probably passes through the Grane almost every year during its Spring and Autumn migrations. A single bird recorded during Easter 2002 at Ogden Res (A.Wade). Birds recorded over Ogden, Musbury areas: 29th March 2002, 20th June 2002, 5th & 13th July 2002 and also a return passage bird on the 3rd September 2002 – an exceptional year! A bird was witnessed going North over Grane Road at 1130hrs on the 9th May 2005 (N.Higson).

KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus) Breeds regularly in the Grane Area. On 5th August 1986 I witnessed 11 of this species in almost perfect alignment over a area approx 500 yards on the side of Haslingden Moor, hovering at the side of each another, each occasionally swooping down after insects (taking young Crane Flies), and then returning to their hovering positions, this carried on for at least two hours to my knowledge. Obviously there must have been at least 3 family groups and was it just a mass food supply situation or was it young birds being taught how to catch insects ? The mystery still remains, the Kestrel is certainly not gregarious within the breeding season, however it is possible they may tolerate one another more so outside the breeding season.

MERLIN (Falco columbarius) One seen chasing Rough Legged Buzzard at Grane on Oct 11th 1880 (Birds Of East Lancs) . Formerly bred in the area with two pairs in the 1950’s. One pair bred at Musbury May 1965 (NB). One present in Musbury Valley on 19th December 1980 (ROC). A female in the Musbury Valley on 11th and 13th of August 1981 (ROC), A male being mobbed by Meadow Pipits near Pilgrims Cross, Holcombe Moor 1145hrs on May 19th 1985. A pair bred in Grane in 1990 but the young birds were robbed. Single birds were present at Grane on 16th and 18th October 1996 (ROC). Seen on different dates flying over Musbury and Haslingden Moor during 1997 (ROC). One seen over Ogden on 15th July 1998 (ROC).

HOBBY (Falco subbuteo) One at Alden on 14th July 1981(ROC).

PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) One probably a female was reported attacking four Herring Gulls at the reservoirs on 3rd March 1917 with a similar incident recorded in January 1918 (CKP). One hunting in the Grane Valley 1340hrs on Feb 7th 1987. Two separate sightings in the Grane Valley on February 16th 1987 (John Hollindrake), A female crossed Haslingden Moor into Grane at 1437hrs on February 28th 1987. A single bird was seen over Musbury on 8th and 11th December 1998 (ROC). Seen fairly regular within the Grane Areas during the nineties and into the new millenium.

RED GROUSE (Lagopus lagopus) This species has declined drastically within our Area in most recent years, probably due in the main to heather loss. And now only the odd couple of pairs seen on the Haslingden/Oswaldtwistle with a similar situation on the Alden/Holcombe side. 8 on Oswaldtwistle/Haslingden Moor on 24th September 1979 (ROC). 10 on Haslingden Moor 31st August 1986 (Bernard Addison). 4 on Haslingden Moor 2nd February 1988. Bred on Haslingden Moor and Musbury Heights during 1991. 8 birds seen on Haslingden Moor on 26th August 1994.A covey of 15 to 20 birds was recorded on Musbury Heights on 28th August 1995. Present on the Moors during 1996.

RED LEGGED PARTRIDGE (Alectoris rufa) A single record of one bird on 1st January 1968 (ROC). Present in the Musbury area during the eighties.

GREY PARTRIDGE (Perdix perdix) Three to four pair may breed within our area. 15 birds at Haslingden Grane during September 1984 (ROC). A covey of 5 present at Holden Wood on 27th Sept 1986. Present in Musbury and one pair in Grane during 1991 (ROC). Present at Hutch Bank Quarry area on 4th May 1992. 3 pairs recorded at Grane during 1994. Single reports during June and July 1995 from Musbury and Haslingden Moor.

QUAIL (Coturnix coturnix) One was calling at Musbury on 23rd June 1990 (ROC). One was calling from a meadow near Hoddlesden Moss on 25th May 1997.

COMMON PHEASANT (Phasianus colchicus) Occasional records pop up from time to time. Usually escaped birds turn up in the Grane/Musbury and Alden Valleys. A male was seen in the Musbury Valley on 23rd and 31st March 1994 (ROC). More recently I have heard birds calling from Calf Hey and Alden.

WATER RAIL (Rallus aquaticus) A single bird was present on Holden Wood Reservoir on 6th December 1990 (ROC).

CORNCRAKE (Crex crex) Formerly bred in the area. (CKParker & Oakes & Battersby).

MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) A successful breeder within our areas with up to seven pairs nesting annually.

COOT (Fulica atra) A pair attempted breeding at Calf Hey Res, they were seen on 21st and 22nd May 1978, one bird seen carrying nesting material, there was no further sightings of the birds by 11th June 1978. Two were present at Haslingden Grane on 6th and 12th May 1979 and one further sighting 25th November 1979. On 9th May 1979 a pair was also seen on Holden Wood Reservoir. Breeding did occur at Holden Wood Reservoir where a pair with five young was seen on 23rd May 1983. A single on Holden Wood Reservoir 1985. A single on Holden Wood Res on Mar 21st 1987. A pair bred on Holden Wood Reservoir during 1990. 3 pairs nested at Holden Wood Reservoir and juveniles were seen on various dates including 5 on 10th June 1992 (ROC). Present most of 1993 with up to 10 birds at peak dates. Present on Holden Vale/Holden Wood and Ogden during 1996. At Holden Wood 4 to 9 were present in April and early May 1997 but these moved on, possibly due to predation by feral mink (ROC). When the Holden Vale Mftg Co where drawing off the water from the Reservoir there was too much fluctuation in the water levels which regularly disrupted this species trying to breed, however now the water levels are pretty constant-hopefully things are picking up. The same problem associated itself with the Great Crested Grebe. Seen regular on Holden Wood Res most of the year though no evidence of breeding 1998.

OYSTERCATCHER (Haematopus ostralegus) One at Ogden Reservoir on 21st June 1969 (ROC). 10 flew past Calf Hey Res on 27th July 1981, 2 at Haslingden Grane on 22nd July 1982. One on Ogden Res on 10th Feb 1985. One among post breeding Lapwings on Ogden Res 5th August 1986. 6 resting up all day at Calf Hey Reservoir (temporarily drained for valve repair work) on 15th August 1987. 3 to 4 birds frequented Holden Wood Reservoir during May and June 1993 (ROC). One at Holden Wood on 7th September 1997 (ROC).

STONE CURLEW (Burhinus oedicnemus) One shot on Haslingden Moor in Spring of 1879 by W. Sawyer, constitutes the first record of this species in Lancashire. (Oakes & Battersby).

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius dubius) This species is known to have bred in the area in 1983,86 and 87. Chicks were succesfully raised in 83,86, yet only one chick was raised in 87 and its success is unknown. During 1996 a pair bred successfully with one chick, after a previous attempt (ROC). Much disruption of its breeding habitat took place in the early to mid 90’s and no further breeding was forthwith at the established grounds. However the species has re established itself still within the boundaries of our report and we are pleased to know it has successfully bred in most years during the late 90’s. A pair was present at Holden Wood from 17th May to 14th June 1998 and a pair was seen with young at a nearby site on 20th June 1998 (ROC). 3 birds present on Holden Wood Res from 8th to 14th August 2000.

RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius hiaticula) On Spring passage there were 2 at Ogden on 30th April 1996 and one was present on Holden Wood on 12th June 1996 (ROC). A single bird was present on Holden Wood Res on 20th July 1997 (ROC). A single bird on passage was seen at Holden Wood on 20th July 1998 (ROC).

DOTTEREL (Charadrius morinellus) The species is an occasional visitor, at least during the Spring migrations. It is believed the birds which call in are stopping over between 12-24hrs to feed up before setting off probably to the Scandinavias. It is very unlikely the birds are of Scottish stock, since I participated during 1993 in ‘The Survey of Breeding Dotterel in Great Britain Report’ and all breeding Scottish birds had been colour ringed, none of these colour ringed birds have ever been seen on our patch! 7 on Haslingden Moor 20th May 1984 (NB). A peak of 31 birds present on Oswaldtwistle/Haslingden Moor on 16th May 1987. On 2nd May 1989 13 were present on the Moor and on the 4th May 4 were seen on Haslingden Moor (ROC). 7 on Haslingden Moor on 2nd May 1994 (ROC). 1 on Haslingden Moor on 4th May 1995 and 6 on Oswaldtwistle Moor on 18th May 1995 (ROC).

GOLDEN PLOVER (Pluvialis apricaria) Bred at Wet Moss on Bull Hill during 1969,1970 and 1971, 3 pair present at the same site in 1984 (NB). Nest with 3 eggs –Alden 25th April 1971 (BD) .A single present on Musbury Heights on 9th April 1980. One pair bred on Haslingden Moor and one bird calling over Alden Valley on 8th May 1981 (NB). A pair present in Musbury area in late April 1982. 3 pairs present on Haslingden and Oswaldtwistle Moor and breeding confirmed of 2 pairs on 2nd June 1984. 3 birds present during breeding season on Haslingden Moor 1985. Two birds on passage on Haslingden Moor on September 22nd 1987. 5 on Haslingden Moor on 23rd December 1989 ROC). A flock of 350 birds were present on Haslingden Moor on 12th and 26th March 1990 (ROC). Bred on Haslingden Moor 1994 and also 5 birds present on 11th December 1994 (ROC). 36 on Haslingden Moor on 12th February 1995. A male apparently of the northern race was at Haslingden Moor on 3rd May 1995. 60-70 flew over Musbury 18th January 1996 (ROC). On 21st April 1996 3 birds on Haslingden Moor including a male with the very black throat and belly of a probable Northern race (ROC). Bred on Haslingden Moor rearing 3 young 1997 (NB). A pair nested on Haslingden Moor during 1998. A flock of 20+ was on Haslingden Moor on 13th December 1998. American Golden Plover (Pluvialis dominica) A possible of this species was seen on Haslingden Moor during 1996-It was described as being very long-winged. It towered and then dropped to the ground. Its call was different from Pluvialis pricaria ).

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER (Pluvialis dominica) One seen on Haslingden Moor 6th September 1996 (Neil Burke).

LAPWING (Vanellus vanellus) Several pairs breed on the Haslingden Moor yet have declined drastically to what they were several years ago. Also odd pairs breed elsewhere within our area. Larger post breeding flocks and also hard weather movements are recorded: 150 on Holden Wood on 14th October 1977, 310 at Grane 21st September 1978, 130 at Musbury on 6th July 1980. 500 at Haslingden Grane on 18th September 1983. 200 at Ogden Res on 15th August 1984. 30/40 at Kilnfields, Musbury on 7th September 1986. Large movements recorded over Calf Hey on January 10th 1987. 150 over Grane on movement 1730hrs on February 3rd 1987. 150 over Holden Wood Reservoir on 22nd September 1987. Present in large flocks at Holden Wood during January and March 1994. Breeding was confirmed at Grane during 1996 with at least 5 pairs. 120 birds present at Holden Wood on 21st July 1996 (ROC). Two pairs were back on terrritory at Holden Wood on 13th February 1998 (ROC).

KNOT ( Calidris canutus ) Probably one of the most significant records for the Grane was on the morning of 3rd November 2002 when a total of 36 of this species represented in 3 separate smaller parties passed over Stoney Rake during a period of 3 hours. The following day also provided a further larger party witnessed by Mavis Smith at Darwen. Obviously this now clarifies what has been suspected for years in relation to a diurnal trans-pennine movement.

GREY PHALAROPE (Phalaropus fulicarius) An early record of “one shot at Grane” (CKP) is subsequently discounted as lacking confirmation (Oakes & Battersby).

DUNLIN (Calidris alpina) Bred in recent years on Wet Moss-Bull Hill and Causeway Heights. Two pair on Oswaldtwistle Moor and one pair on Musbury Heights 1979. Bred at Haslingden Grane and Musbury Heights 1980. Bred on Haslingden and Oswaldtwistle Moors 1981. 2 pairs present on Haslingden Moor on 15th May 1983. Two pairs present on Haslingden Moor on 2nd June 1985. A cold weather movement record on 11th January 1987, one caught by cat at Musbury then rescued unharmned and released (NH). Many were recorded around this time within Rossendale. Seen on Haslingden Moor around mid-late April 1989(ROC). 2 pairs present on Haslingden Moor on 16th May 1991.

RUFF (Philomachus pugnax) A reeve was shot at the Snipe Holes on Haslingden Moor 2nd September 1889, another bird was shot near the same site on 16th August 1890 (KGS). One was seen on Haslingden Moor on 25th August 1991 (NB). Singles were seen on Haslingden Moor – a male on 30th August and a female on 3rd September 1993(NB).

JACK SNIPE (Lymnocryptes minimus) Recorded in Winter on the moorland pools and bogs (ROC). One on Musbury Heights 12th March 1972 (NB). One seen on Haslingden Moor 19th April 1989 (ROC). 2 seen at Thirteen Stone Hill on 30th October 1994 (ROC). One on Haslingden Moor on 9th April 1996 (ROC).

COMMON SNIPE (Gallinago gallinago) Odd pairs breed at Grane and birds can be heard drumming during the breeding season over the Holden Wood Reservoir area. 15 at Grane on 5th September 1981. 74 flushed on Haslingden Moor on August 22nd 1987 and large numbers present into September 1987. Seen at Holden Wood Res on 3rd January 1989 (ROC). Bred on Oswaldtwistle Moor 1991. Present on Holden Vale Flash and Haslingden Moor during 1992. At least 12 were present on Haslingden Moor 31st January 1993 (ROC). Bred on Haslingden/Oswaldtwistle Moor during 1996. 20 on Haslingden Moor on 6th September 1996 (ROC). Present on Holden Wood and Haslingden Moor during breeding season 1998 and again large passage numbers seen on Haslingden and Oswaldtwistle Moors. 1 present Holden Wood Res Aug 8th-13th 2000

WOODCOCK (Scolopax rusticola) Bred in the area in 1967. One at Sunnybank-Alden 16th July 1971 (BD). One at Musbury on 9th April 1980 (ROC). One in Alden Wood 5th July 1981. A bird was present as late as 6th April 1985 at Haslingden Grane. One at Calf Hey 26th November 1986. One in Musbury Valley on 24th December 1986. One flushed on Tor Hill summit on lst February 1987. One on Oswaldtwistle Moor 2nd February 1988. The remains of a bird was recorded at Calf Hey on 29th January 1989- part eaten by a predator possibly a fox (ROC). Two birds present at Calf Hey on 9th and 16th February 1992 and also 15th March 1992 (ROC).Single birds were recorded from several sites within Grane during the early part of 1993. 3 seen at Heap Clough Plantation on 11th December 1994. One was seen above Calf Hey in the Fairy Glen area on 28th October 1998 (ROC).

BLACK TAILED GODWIT (Limosa limosa) One on passage calling continuously over Haslingden Moor going W-E during May 1985.

WHIMBREL (Numenius minutus) One on Calf Hey Reservoir on April 25th 1987 (NB). 3 birds were reported flying North over Grane on 2nd May 1989 (ROC). One was on Haslingden Moor on 12th May 1990 (ROC). Every year passage birds East-West occurs through the Grane Valley during the third week of August usually in small parties and calling. One heard calling whilst in flight over Haslingden Moor on 14th May 1992.

CURLEW (Numenius arquata) Breeds in our areas with up to six pairs. The Grane birds usually arrive back on their breeding grounds by the 2nd week in March and usually depart during the first week of July. Early birds have been known to arrive in Mid February. 11 at Alden on 15th July 1981. 15 on Haslingden Moor August 22nd 1987 obviously passage birds. Bred on Haslingden/Oswaldtwistle Moors during 1994. Present on Haslingden Moor and Musbury Heights during the breeding season 1998..

REDSHANK (Tringa totanus) From earlier years, there are records of “wintering flocks” (CKP). Two pairs bred on Wet Moss, Bull Hill in 1975 (NB). One present on Calf Hey 22nd August 1977, One pair bred in Grane during 1980. Two pairs bred on Haslingden Moor and two pairs on Holden Wood Reservoir during 1982. Three seen on Haslingden Moor on 15th May 1983. Two at Ogden Reservoir 6th July 1984. Seen on Haslingden Moor on 12th May 1985. On 4th June 1985 a pair in the Musbury Valley. A single returned to Grane on 15th April and present up to 12th June 1986. One over Ogden E-W April 14th 1987. One on Calf Hey April 21st 1987. One on Haslingden Moor on April 18th 1987. One over Ogden 3rd May and One on Calf Hey 9th August 1987. At least three pairs nested within the Grane during 1989 (ROC).A pair at Grane 3rd March, 2 at Holden Vale on 30th March 1990. One found dead with a flesh wound on Haslingden Moor on 11th May 1990 (ROC). Seen at Holden Vale 3rd March 1991 with a continued presence up to 16th June 1991. Singles were seen at Calf Hey on 18th June and one on 9th November 1995 (ROC). One on Holden Wood 19th May 1996.

GREENSHANK (Tringe nebularia) There are earlier records of Autumn passage birds (Oakes). One was recorded on Spring passage 14th May 1978 (ROC). One on Holden Wood Reservoir on 5th September 1981, 2 on Ogden Reservoir 6th July 1984, One on Calf Hey Res July 24th-27th 1987. One seen at Ogden Reservoir on 30th and 31st August and again on 8th September 1995 (ROC).

GREEN SANDPIPER (Tringe ochropus) One on Calf Hey Reservoir July 27th 1987. One on Calf Hey Res August 9th to 16th 1987 – reservoir almost completely drained for valve repairs. One was at Holden Vale on 21st May 1989 and one on Calf Hey on 2nd June 1989 (ROC). One seen at Holden Wood Res on 19th September 1992. One seen at Holden Wood on 28th and 29th October 1995. On 10th May 1996 one alighted at Ogden Reservoir for about 10 minutes before flying off (ROC).

WOOD SANDPIPER (Tringa glareola) One present on Holden Wood Reservoir between 10th to 14th September 2003.

COMMON SANDPIPER (Actitis hypoleucos) Breeds annually on most if not all three reservoirs also on Holden Vale Flash. Yet in more recent years the numbers of pairs of breeders has declined, The birds usually arrive back during the last two weeks of April. A pair with 3 chicks Ogden Reservoir 10th August 1978. Bred at Calf Hey Res 19th June 1979. Bred on all reservoirs during 1980. One bird returned to Holden Vale Flash on 2nd May 1991 (ROC). Present at Holden Vale Flash and Calf Hey during 1992/1993/1994. Present on all reservoirs during 1995 and 1996. Birds were seen in 1997 during April, May and June- August- Breeding at Holden Wood is thought to have failed due to the prescence of Mink. It is thought this species bred at Ogden Reservoir during 1998. Present on Calf Hey during 2003 my last was seen on 16th Aug 2003 which was a single bird most probably of transient.

BLACK HEADED GULL (Larus ridibundus) In 1937 four pairs nested near Bull Hill on Holcombe Moor and have continued to do somewhat sporadically since, but never more than a few pairs. In the Spring of 1947 about a dozen pairs bred there, but in 1948 there was a remarkable increase. On May 10th along with Mr. K. Hargreaves, I visited this nesting haunt, and we were amazed to find about 1000 of these gulls occupying territory stretching from a point near Tor Hill, Helmshore, across the moor towards Edgeworth. On the moors near Helmshore we found about 500 gulls occupying a stretch of dry moor and in less than half an hour found about 200 nest, some containing eggs, others showing signs of having been systematically robbed by egg collectors – The Birds and Mammals of Bury by MB Horam 1949). Up to 1000 roosting on Ogden Reservoir in December 1963, although the roost was abandoned with the reservoirs becoming frozen over (EGD). 250 on ice covered Ogden on 7th March 1986. 300 roosting on Ogden February 3rd 1987. The species can be seen daily at Grane or passing through overhead outside of the breeding season. 200 at Holden Wood Reservoir on 14th February 1993 (ROC). 200 on Holden Wood on 19th February 1995 (ROC). 120 on Holden Wood Reservoir on 21st July 1996 (ROC).

COMMON GULL (Larus canus) Odd birds seen each year, usually in company with Black Headed Gulls. 10 present at Grane 16th March 1980. 5 present with BHG’s 23rd July 1982. 5 on Ogden Reservoir 4th February 1987. 4 on Holden Wood Res 4th March 1987. There were 10 birds on Holden Wood on 19th February 1995 (ROC).

LESSER BLACK BACKED GULL (Larus fuscus) 75 at Grane 23rd June 1977. 11 on Ogden 19th February 1987. Many can be seen going over Grane in the evenings heading to their roost after a days scavaging on the local tips. So often mistaken from a distance as Geese – because of their tight ‘V’ formation grouping.

HERRING GULL Larus argentatus) Up to 800 were roosting at Grane in December 1963 (EGD), and 900 on 29th December 1968 (EW). 29 over Grane 26th December 1986. 33 over Calf Hey (E-W) on January 8th 1987. Many can be seen going over Grane in the evenings heading to their roost after a days scavaging on the local tips.

GREAT BLACK BACKED GULL (Larus marinus) One on Haslingden Grane 15th January 1977, single birds present mid Dec 1980. 9 on Ogden 7th March 1986. 7 on Ogden 26th December 1986. 17 on Ogden January 16th 1987. 26 were at Holden Wood Res on 19th December 1991 (ROC). 5 on Holden Wood on 6th February 1992. 7 on Holden Wood on 12th January 1997 (ROC).

COMMON TERN (Sterna hirundo) One bird at Ogden Reservoir on 10th October 1976.

BLACK TERN (Chlidonias niger) An immature was present at Holden Wood Reservoir on 11th September 1993 (ROC).

STOCK DOVE (Columba oenas) Two to Three pair are recorded annually during the breeding season, usually Musbury Tor, Hutch Bank or Heap Clough. Six birds at a quarry in Grane on 21st April 1984. There were 10 birds at Heap Clough on 6th February 1989 (ROC). Present at Hutch Bank Quarry and Heap Clough during 1997.

WOODPIGEON (Columba palumbus) Regular breeding status within Grane. 52 in Ogden plantation on 4th March 1986. 55 flying NW over Grane on 15th November 1986. 80-100 birds at Calf Hey on 19th Jan 1991. 50 at Calf Hey on 10th December 1995.During frosty spells in early to mid November thousands of birds pass through on their Southerly migrations heading South down the East side of Hutch Bank Quarry.

COLLARED DOVE (Streptopelia decaocto) One at Holden Wood Reservoir on February 2lst 1987 (IB). This species is gradually colonizing several areas on the boundaries of Grane 1999.

TURTLE DOVE (Steptopelia turtur) One was heard at Fairy Glen, Grane on 22nd May 1995 (B.Bell)

RING-NECKED PARAKEET (Psittacula krameri) One was at Holden Wood Res on 13th December 1992 (ROC).

CUCKOO (Cuculus canorus) Arrives back on territory during last week in April or first week in May. We generally have two to three breeding pairs in our area and the Meadow Pipit is the prime host. An adult meadow pipit was seen feeding a full grown chick at Haslingden Grane in June 1979. A juvenile being fed by Meadow pipits on 8th July 1985. Cuckoo being constantly mobbed and harrassed by Meadow Pipits on 17th May 1986 at side of Ogden Reservoir. A fully grown chick being fed by Meadow Pipits at Calf Hey on 29th July 1987. Arrived back to Grane lst May 1990. Calling at Grane 27th April 1991. One calling at Musbury on lst May 1992 and one on several occasions calling from Calf Hey during June 1992 (ROC). Heard calling in both Musbury and Grane during 1993. Calling males were heard at Musbury on 29th April 1994. Heard calling from Musbury and Calf Hey during 1995 and 1996 and 1997, 1998.

BARN OWL (Tyto alba) A record in June 1964. During July 1984 there were several reports of two juveniles in woods at Grane.

LITTLE OWL (Athene noctua) Established in the Grane Area, with breeding birds at Priestentax, Hutch Bank, Musbury Valley, Musbury Heights and Alden – 1987. A pair nested in Musbury and later in the year one seen at Holden Vale on 28th September 1992 and Musbury Tor in December 1992 (ROC).Present Musbury and Alden during 1997and 1998.

TAWNY OWL (Strix aluco) Breeding occurs at several localities throughout Grane. Breeding confirmed at Calf Hey and Musbury during 1992.

LONG EARED OWL (Asio otus) A pair bred at Grane in 1983. One seen at Calf Hey on January 31st 1987. One flushed at Calf Hey 19th September 1987 (RK). Present during 1990. Seen most years during the nineties.

SHORT EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) In the 1950’s the species “ was frequently seen during the Winter on the moors at Haslingden Grane where the species breeds or has bred” (Oakes). More recently there are a few records of birds on passage, a male displaying in June 1964. A pair near Alden Woods 22nd April 1971 (BD). One on Oswaldtwistle Moor 14th March 1973 (NB). A bird at Musbury Tor on 8th April 1977. I found fresh pellets on Haslingden Moor in May 1985.

NIGHTJAR (Caprimulgus europaeus) Formerly bred in the area, up to at least 1917 when it was described as “not infrequent” (CKP).

SWIFT (Apus apus) The species hunts over Grane daily and breeds nearby mainly on the three storey old factories. More recently the species has started building nest on two storey buildings also. They usually arrive back around the 1st May and return by the second week in August.

KINGFISHER (Alcedo atthis) One at Waterside, Grane on 27th July 1972 (BD). One at Grane on 9th March 1978. One on Calf Hey Reservoir in 1985. One at Holden Wood Reservoir on 27th September 1986. Present at the Grane Reservoirs on 3rd and 9th August and also during October and November 1998(ROC) Seen regular on the Swinnell and Ogden and probable breeding does occur- 1999.

WRYNECK (Jynx torquilla) A bird was present on Oswaldtiwstle Moor on 13th March 1970 (Lancashire Bird Report).

GREEN WOODPECKER (Picus viridis) One calling at Calf Hey Reservoir on 17th March and one at Alden on 10th June 1990 (ROC). A pair was seen in Musbury Valley where birds were recorded throughout the year 1993 (ROC). I have seen this species present at Heap Clough during the mid-nineties. One was seen at Musbury on 30th March 1997 (ROC).

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER (Dendropcopos major) Present during breeding season at Grane during 1985. One at Calf Hey 8th and 10th November 1986. Seen during breeding season 1997 at Alden and Musbury, also Wintering at Calf Hey and Holden Wood. Regular breeder throughout the area. Probably numbers swelled during the Winter months by visiting migrants – 1990’s.

SKYLARK (Alauda arvensis) Returns from coast usually the last week in January or the first week in February. Many pairs breed on the moorland areas. Adverse weather on the Moors pre breeding will bring this species to lower ground for food and usually in quite large flocks. During the 90’s especially large numbers have been recorded passing overhead during the Winter migrations, usually heading West towards the coast.

SAND MARTIN (Riparia riparia) Bred at Ogden Reservoir apparently for the first time in 1917 and again in 1918 and 1919 (CKP). One feeding over the Ogden Reservoir for two hours on April 6th 1987. 2 at Holden Wood Reservoir on 11th April 1994 (ROC). One on Spring passage over Holden Wood on 16th April 1995 and two flew east on Autumn passage on 8th October 1995 (ROC). One seen flying over Holden Wood on 21st April 1996 (ROC). Single birds were seen over Holden Wood on 11th May 1997 (ROC).

SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) Breeds regularly in farm buildings within the Grane Area. Usually arrives back from Africa during md-April and leaves us the first or second weeks in October. One pair in Grane recorded to have three broods which is rare – Earlier broods seen to help parent birds feed later broods. Late return records include a pair flying south high up over Holden Wood on 11th October 1998 (ROC). A late bird was seen feeding at Grane on November 4th 2000 (AJ).

HOUSE MARTIN (Delichon urbica) Many are usually seen annually feeding low over the Holden Wood Reservoir. Usual return date is the third week in April and the last sightings generally early October. On May 3lst 1987 three seen to land on Holden Vale Flash collecting paper/mud composition obviously for nest building (though rather late date ?), A very heavy movement over Musbury on 18th September 1989 (ROC).

TREE PIPIT (Anthus trivialis) 3-4 males singing at Haslingden Grane 14th and 17th May 1978. Birds also present during 1979. A male in full display at Grane on 22nd May 1982. A male in song at Grane from 4th July 1983. Two males at Grane 1st July 1984. 3 pairs present at Calf Hey by 6th June 1986. One at Grane on April 24th 1987. 2 birds were heard in song at Calf Hey between 27th April to 9th June 1991 (ROC). Two pairs present at Calf Hey from Mid May 1992. At least one pair nested at Grane during 1993. Present at Grane during 1994. Two were present at Holden Wood on 12th June 1996 (ROC). Two pairs thought to have bred during 1988 with one pair at Calf Hey and another pair seen at Middlebank-Musbury on 18th May and again on the 1st June 1998 (ROC).

MEADOW PIPIT (Anthus pratensis) A adult feeding a young Cuckoo at Grane late June 1979. 60 birds flocked at Huch Bank Quarry on 6th April 1986. 30 on slag heaps at Heap Clough on 7th February 1987. 50 at Priestentax on 14th February 1987. A adult feeding juvenile Cuckoo at Calf Hey on 29th July 1987. Over 60 plus seen around the Calf Hey Res and many overhead on passage early October 1987. The Spring and especially the autumn passage clearly involves low thousands crossing over the Grane – probably to and from their wintering grounds – possibly the Dee marshes and further South.

YELLOW WAGTAIL (Motacilla flava) Has bred near Holden Wood Reservoir (ROC). One flew over Hutch Bank Quarry on 27th August 1990 (ROC).

GREY WAGTAIL (Motacilla cinerea) Has bred near Holden Wood Reservoir during 1967. Between 70 and 100 birds had a overnight roost at Calf Hey on 15th August 1979- an extremely interesting record. A nest with 5 young at Musbury in 1985. Present at Holden Vale and Holden Wood during breeding season 1994 (ROC). Regular large passage movements occur through Grane the second and third weeks in August.

PIED WAGTAIL (Motacilla alba) Breeds in ruins and walls around the Grane Area. Nest with young 3rd August 1978, young seen being fed by adults 8th and 11th June 1979. Four of the subspecies White Wagtail seen at Great House Experimental Farm on 19th April 1982. Grane offers large movements of this species from the second week in August.

WAXWING (Bombycilla garrulus)

DIPPER (Cinclus cinclus) One at Calf Hey during 1985. Bred regular at Musbury up until 1986. Regular sightings at Sunnybank. After the breeding season there were 4 on Musbury Brook on 28th August 1996 (ROC).5 young were reared from a nest in an artificial site at Holden Wood during 1998.

WREN (Troglodytes troglodytes) A numerous and regular breeder throughout Grane. 1979 produced low breeding success possibly on account of severe winter of 1978.

DUNNOCK (Prunella modularis) Common and widespread breeder at Grane. I have seen and heard many of this species drop in at first light during Autumn migrations.

ROBIN (Erithacus rubecula) Breeds at several sites within Grane.

COMMON REDSTART (Phoenicurus phoenicurus) A estimate of three pairs may breed within the true Grane. A family party seen at Calf Hey on 16th July 1977 (ROC). 3 pairs bred 2nd July 1979. A Male was seen at Haslingden Grane on 26th May and 17th June 1979. One pair present Haslingden Grane 1985. A pair present at Heap Clough May 5th 1986. A male present on Calf Hey 6th May 1986. A pair present at plantings side of Haslingden Moor on 6th May 1987. During the early nineties I found a bird which had been freshly killed and plucked at a Sparrowhawk plucking post near to the Ogden Res – The bird had probably only arrived back in this Country within days.Two males were in song at Calf Hey but there were no further indications of nesting on 10th June 1989 (ROC). Present in Alden and Musbury during 1990. Bred at Grane during 1991. One singing 17th May 1992 at Calf Hey (ROC). One in song at Calf Hey during May 1993. At Musbury 2 males were singing on 4th May and also one on the 24th May 1995 (ROC). A singing male recorded from Musbury on 12th May 1996 (ROC). A male was seen at Calf Hey on 13th May 1998 (ROC).

WHINCHAT (Saxicola rubetra) Two at Musbury on 15th May 1981. One at Hutch Bank 4th June 1981. A male and female calling at Ogden Reservoir on 5th May 1986. Two males present at Alden 23rd April 1984. Males early May 1985 in Musbury. A male was in song at Grane on 27th May 1989 (ROC). A pair on gorse bushes at Great House, Alden could have been a breeding pair (1998).

STONECHAT (Saxicola torquata) Two pairs present at Alden Ratchers on 26th June 1977 (ROC). Bred at Holcolme 29th May 1978. A female was present at Holden Wood Reservoir on 15th October 1994 (ROC). One was at Holden Wood on 8th November 1998 (ROC).

WHEATEAR (Oenanthe oenanthe) A regular breeder at Musbury, Hutch Bank, Heap Clough, Deep Clough and Musbury Heights. They usually are one of the first migrants to return during the last week in March or lst week in April and depart around mid-September. 4 immature birds on Haslingden Moor on 19th September 1993. 7on Haslingden Moor on 7th September 1996 (ROC). Greenland Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe leucorrhoa) Up to 9 of this rare species were present on Oswaldtwistle Moor during passage from April 30th to 4th May 1987. 5 birds on Haslingden Moor 5th May 1990 (ROC).

RING OUZEL (Turdos torquatus) A pair was seen at Alden on 3rd and 10th June 1979 and nearby young were suspected. A single juvenile was seen at Musbury on 20th October 1979. One on 9th April 1980 in Musbury Valley. A pair at Alden Ratchers 15th May 1981. A male at Grane 21st April 1984. A male present at Musbury April 1985. A male calling at Alden Ratchers on 27th April 1986, A male was singing at Musbury on 24th April and one was near Calf Hey on 29th April 1990 (ROC). A female was seen at Musbury on 2nd May 1994 and one on passage feeding with Mistle Thrushes below Musbury Tor on 11th October 1994 (ROC). One seen at Musbury Tor on 6th April 1995 (ROC). A male was seen at Musbury on 13th April 1996 (ROC). Seen again at Musbury Tor and Alden during 1997 (JR).

BLACKBIRD (Turdus merula) Resident and breeding throughout the Grane Area. Numbers increase at Calf Hey from November onwards indicating that the area probably accomodates more Northerly wintering birds. 15 grouped in the Alden Valley on 3rd November 1980 and 10 grouped near car park at Calf Hey on 6th November 1986. It is interesting that most grouped birds seem in the majority to be males. Many overhead on passage each winter.

FIELDFARE (Turdus pilaris) 100 in Alden Valley 5th Jan 1981. 70 in Alden Valley 27th Jan 1981. 150 in Alden Valley 7th Feb 1981. 3 at Grane 12th September 1981 (very early!!) Two to three hundred in fields near Musbury Tor on 6th and 8th April 1982. 50 at Alden Lodge on 28th March 1984. A very interesting sighting was 6 birds present in Musbury during July and a party of 6 birds which included 2 juveniles at the same site on 7th September 1986. 1000 plus on November 2nd 1986 in various large and small parties went over Calf Hey E-W on their regular migration movement which went on for three days and probably accounted for many thousands of birds. 21 in field opposite Duke of Wellington 5th February 1987. Found head only of this species on Haslingden Moor on February 28th 1987, probably the work of a Peregrine attack. On 18th October 1992 a huge flock of at least 1000 birds was seen circling over Grane (ROC). 200 seen at Holden Wood on 23rd December 1995.250 at Musbury on 25th November 1996. Though many birds are seen on their early outward Winter migration, usually thousands, very few are ever witnessed on their return passage- its suspected that the majority go back via an alternative route. April 19th 2000- 4 birds were present near the Information Centre- quite late.

SONG THRUSH (Turdus philomelos) Present all year in the area and a regular though probably declining breeding bird within our area. One was heard in song at Holden Wood on lst December 1991 (ROC). Many are heard and seen on Winter migration E-W from Mid October onwards. Bred at Holden Wood and Calf Hey during 1992.

REDWING (Turdus iliacus) 35/40 flying over Grane on 12th October 1980 (ROC). One at Musbury 8th April 1982. Large mass winter movements came through the Grane Valley during the 2nd and 3rd and 4th November 1986 together with Fieldfare, this movement must have involved thousands of birds. The outward Winter movements through Grane hold similar status during the nineties. Probably the best and most visited feeding area for this species is Alden and Musbury.

MISTLE THRUSH (Turdus viscivorus) 20 plus on 22nd September 1979, and 12 on 29th September 1979 (ROC). 30 at Kilnfields, Musbury on 7th October 1986. 14 birds in wooded area of Holden Wood Reservoir and 30 plus at Kilnfields, Musbury on July 2nd 1987.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER (Locusbella naevia) A bird present at Grane on 24th May 1978 (ROC). A reeling male at Grane during June and July 1987. (NB & RK). One was heard at Grane during Spring 1994 (ROC). One on Hoddlesden Moss on 22nd April 1996 (NB). 3 Birds were heard reeling at Clough area (Road End) of Stoney Rake on 8th August 2000, though were not heard again on subsequent visits. I heard a bird reeling on the morning of 12th July 2003 from the Information Centre at Grane. Birds also present at top end of Holden Wood Reservoir mid July 2003 (JR & NB).

SEDGE WARBLER (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus) Song heard at Holden Vale Flash 1992 (NB). A bird was seen at Holden Vale on 17th July 1994. 2 on passage at Holden Vale on 13th October 1996 (ROC). One present at Holden Vale on 3rd and 8th June 1997 (ROC). A male was in song at Holden Wood on 14th June 1998, and one possibly two birds were present there on 10th July (ROC). Birds present at Holden Wood during July 2003 (JR)

WHITETHROAT (Sylvia communis) On 21st July 1996 there were 2 at Holden Vale (ROC). One was at Holden Vale on 9th May 1997 and a pair later nested successfully.

GARDEN WARBLER (Sylvia borin) One on 28th May 1978 (ROC). 3 at Hog Lowe Clough on 23th May 1979 (ROC). A male was in song near Calf Hey on 28th May 1990.

BLACKCAP (Sylvia atrcapilla) Occasional records (ROC). Two birds were feeding on Rowans at Calf Hey on 15th October 1992 (ROC). A singing male was heard from Holden Wood on 2nd July 1994 (ROC). A male was in song at Calf Hey on 17th and 18th May 1998

WOOD WARBLER (Phylloscopus sibilatrix) Nesting took place at Calf Hey during 1991 (ROC).

CHIFFCHAFF (Phylloscopus collybita) One bird seen and calling and one bird return calling at Calf Hey House on April 27th 1987. On 30th March 1990 song was heard at Calf Hey (ROC)..One present at Calf Hey on 7th July 1991 (ROC). A late bird was calling from around the Clough Head Information Centre on 19th October 1997.

WILLOW WARBLER (Phlloscopus trochilus) Breeds at Grane in small numbers probably up to 5 pairs in Grane proper and numerous pairs in other parts. Nest with 6 eggs at Calf Hey on 5th June 1980 and saw fledgelings on 15th June 1980. Returns to Grane from about mid April. Status if anything increasing. 3 calling at Information Centre on Apil 19th 2000. First sighting during 2002 was at the Grane Information Centre Car-Park.

GOLDCREST (Reguls regulus) Common and regular breeder at Grane. Very large swell in numbers reported at Calf Hey on September 26th 1987 also this ties in with other parts to show a large movement of birds throughout the Area. Numbers suffer greatly in harsh Winters.

FIRECREST (Reguls ignicapillus) A very rare passage bird seen at Grane on 13th September 1986 (NB).

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER (Muscicapa striata) At Waterside, Grane on 27th July 1972 (BD). Up to three pairs usually breed at Calf Hey and others within our Area. Birds seen at Musbury in 1981. A single bird in hawthorns at Kilnfields, Musbury on September 19th 1986. Party of 12 at Calf Hey in September 1987 (CP). Bred at Calf Hey 1992. A family party was at Calf Hey during August and September 1995. A party of 4 birds seen in trees at bottom end of Stoney Rake on 12th August 2000.

PIED FLYCATCHER (Ficedula hypoleuca) Two males on 24th April 1943 (Oakes). One Male at Haslingden Grane on 16th and 24th May and 14th June 1981 (ROC). On 19th May 1989 a male was visiting a nest-box at Grane (ROC). Two birds were in song on 15th and 28th May 1990. A nest built in one of the nestboxes at Grane had 6 eggs on 1st June, 4 young hatched and were later ringed on 23rd June 1990 (ROC). Bred in the nestboxes at Grane during 1991. A male was present at Calf Hey on 17th May 1998 (ROC).

LONG TAILED TIT (Aegithalos caudatus) Seen in Alden Woods 23rd November 1972 (BD). Seen on old railway site near Camms during mid-nineties (NB). On 21st August 1993 one or more family groups were present along the old railway at Holden Vale (ROC). Small parties seen regular in Sunnybank during April 1999.

MARSH TIT (Parus palustris) One was present at Calf Hey on 25th May 1997 (ROC).

WILLOW TIT (Parus montanus) One was seen at Calf Hey in January 1995 (ROC).

COAL TIT (Parus ater) Resident breeder and in large numbers at Grane. 20/30 grouped on Ogden Plantation on August 10th 1987. Extra large numbers recorded around Calf Hey on October 3rd 1987 indicating a large passage movement.

BLUE TIT (Parus caeruleus) Resident and common breeder at Grane. Very large flocks recorded at Grane during September 1986. Nestbox scheme around the Calf Hey area as been going on now since the late 80’s and into the 90’s with great success. Early BTO ringing program carried out by Craig Bell which showed high clutches.

GREAT TIT (Parus major) Resident and common breeder at Grane. Nestbox scheme around the Calf Hey area been going on now since the late 80’s and into the 90’s with great success.

NUTHATCH (Sitta europea) One record of one at Sunnybank-Alden, the area where they have nested in previous years with no further information on nesting-1995 (ROC). Present at Sunnybank during April 1999.

TREECREEPER (Certhia familiaris) Several recorded and breeding annually around the Grane. Bred in fishing hut at side of Ogden in 1984. Witnessed again nesting under the Fishing hut in 1995 and again in 1997. Still present in good numbers in the Grane and recently seen in Sunnybank- 1999.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE (Lanius excubitor) Two were seen at Grane on 24th and 25th February 1998 by Dr. P. Rishton.

JAY Garrulus glandarius) One in Alden Woods 23rd November 1972 (BD). Recorded at Calf Hey in 1985 and a pair recorded during the breeding season at Calf Hey 1986. During the nineties the species has become firmly established within most areas of our report.

MAGPIE (Pica pica) A resident and breeder throughout Grane. Outside of breeding season numbers can swell and reular counts up to 30 birds are not unusual especially at Heap Clough. The swell results in birds travelling over the moor area crossing from Bently Moss and Pickup Bank. Status increasing.

JACKDAW (Corvus monedula) 20/30 on 12th October 1980. 46 flying overhead of Calf Hey 7th February 1987. During late October 1998 I witnessed numerous birds travelling West in medium parties obviously on East to West outward winter migration – this migration pattern was not recorded previously.

ROOK (Corvus corax) Two birds where seen near Deep Clough, Grane on 4th October 1986.

CARRION CROW (Corvus corone corone) Established in the Grane area since the fifties. 500 seen at the Calf Hey roost during December 1992 (ROC). About 400 roosted above Calf Hey during the Winter of 1996.

RAVEN (Corvus corax) On 2nd September 1996 two birds were seen flying from Holcombe Moor into Alden (ROC). A single bird was present with Crows on Musbury Tor 3rd September and again on 12th October 1998 (JR). A bird was seen soaring above Deep Clough and heard “konking” as it later flew past the Information Centre heading in the Pickup Bank direction 12th July 2003.

STARLING (Sturnus vulgaria) During late May and early June a flock consisting mainly of Juvenile birds numbering up to 300 was seen in the Musbury Valley. Large post breeding flocks again of juvenile birds can be seen top end of Calf Hey during June. Thousands travel East to West over the Grane during late October and early November on their outward winter migrations from the Scandinavias etc.

HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus) Common and regular breeder at Grane wherever domestic properties are situated.

TREE SPARROW (Passer montanus) One at Grane 10th July 1977. Two were feeding young at Grane on 17th June 1979. One male in full display was seen at Grane 22nd May 1982. A male in song at Grane on 4th July 1983. A single bird at Grane on 19th August 1985. Three near Ogden reservoir on 9th March 1986. The species did breed regular within our area up until the mid nineties- though unfortunately there have been no breeding records in the late nineties.

CHAFFINCH (Fringilla coelebs) Fairly common resident breeding species at Grane. Occasionally large flocks of up to 30 birds are seen. Flock of 20 on 12th March 1986 at Heap Clough plantings. 20 at Calf Hey 15th October 1986. 50 on Beech trees at Musbury during March 1996 (ROC). Thousands travel east-west on their outward winter migration – October and November over the Valley.

BRAMBLING (Fringilla montifringilla) Generally seen in close association with Chaffinch. One on 23rd February 1917 (CKP). Three with Chaffinch at Calf Hey on 17th October 1982. One with Chaffinch at Calf Hey on 12th October 1986. Four at Calf Hey 16th October 1986. One at Calf Hey on 4th November 1986. Flocks of 40 to 80 moving west over Grane on 14th and 18th October 1992 (ROC).36 at Musbury on 20th December 1996 (ROC). Regular winter visitor at Grane. Status unchanged, many seen on migration over the Valley during October and November.

GREENFINCH (Carduelis chloris) One pair on Grane Road above Holden Wood Reservoir on 15th March 1979. Six in field with House Sparrows at side of Holden Wood Reservoir. Four on Holcombe Road on March 12th 1987. Numerous pass overhead during the late Winter months on their Westerley migration.Status during the nineties – increasing.

GOLDFINCH (Carduelis carduelis) Two moving South on 10th November 1957 (EW). Twelve at Grane on 7th April 1980. 20 at Calf Hey on 3rd May 1986 with odd birds throughout year. One near Ogden on December 1st 1986. Seven near Calf Hey House on April 20th 1987. 13 at Calf Hey House May 1st 1987. Status within Grane, increasing during the nineties.

SISKIN (Carduelis spinus) A flock of twenty plus was in Fairy Glen on 6th March 1978 (ROC). Two at Haslingden Grane on 7th April 1980. Two at Grane on 22nd February 1981. Four at Calf Hey on 7th February 1987. A pair was seen at Calf Hey on 19th May 1989 (ROC). A flock of about 40 birds was present at Grane on 24th December building up to 52 at Calf Hey on 31st December 1990 (ROC). A bird recorded at Grane on 19th June 1991 is thought to have bred. Breeding was confirmed during 1992 (NB). Birds seen during March and November 1993. 50 at Grane on 13th February 1994. 24 recorded at Musbury on 17th December 1996 (ROC). It is thought that 2-3 pairs bred at Grane during 1998.

LINNET (Carduelis cannabina) Breeding of this species took place at Musbury with fledged young seen on 19th June 1980. A late record of this species in the Alden Valley on 3rd November 1980. Present at Alden Ratchers and Musbury 1981. A party near Heap Clough plantings 30th December 1985. Two pairs in gorse at Heap Clough on 30th May 1986. Breeding probably took place at Holden Vale Flash during 1992. Present during the late Winter months 1995 at Musbury and Grane. 100 at Grane on 8th December 1996 (ROC). A flock of 100 birds were seen at Musbury Brook on 14th April 1998.

TWITE (Carduelis flavirostris) Ten pairs nested on Holcombe Moor in 1968 (NB). Three nest where found on Haslingden and Oswaldtwistle Moor on 17th June 1979. Breeding took place on Oswaldtwistle Moor with 3 nest found 25th May, two of these subsequently predated 1980. Present during breeding season at Alden Ratchers 1983. Present during breeding season on Haslingden Moor 1985. Approximately 12 in twos and threes on Haslingden & Oswaldtwistle Moor April 27th 1987. 3 pairs were flying over Haslingden Moor on 4th May 1990. 2 family groups were seen at Hutch Bank on 11th July 1992 (ROC). Flock of 25 present at Ogden on 29th September 1995 (ROC). 15 at Musbury Tor on 22nd March 1997 (ROC). A flock of 20 was present in the Musbury area from 4th to 16th December 1998 (JR). During the nineties this species has declined drastically – there are probably no breeding pairs within our area 1999.

REDPOLL (Carduelis flammea) Twenty five feeding on Alder in Alden Valley on 28th November 1972 (BD). Reported as numerous at Grane during 1978. Bred at Grane 1979. One at Grane on 17th April 1983. Seen regular at Grane during 1984. Single figure flocks were reported in Grane during March 1985. Ten in conifers at Calf Hey House April 24th 1987.Flocks of 10 and 20 were seen in Holden Vale during January 1997 (ROC). Seen and heard regular throughout the year at Grane – 1999.

CROSSBILL (Loxia curvirostra) Present at Grane during 1986 and early 1987 and breeding has probably taken place. Birds seen with nesting material in bill, also post breeding parties had juveniles present with them. Largest party reported 24 birds at Calf Hey on 7th June 1986. Six at Calf Hey on January 6th 1987. Birds were present at Grane during January and February 1989 with about 10 present on the 5th February (ROC). A flock of 10 birds was seen in Heap Clough Planting on 23th July 1990. 19 at Calf Hey on 11th November 1990. During 1992 this species bred at Grane (NB). A pair had returned to last years nest site at Calf Hey by 14th March 1993 and the female was seen carrying nesting material but there were no further developments (ROC). 2 were heard calling at Calf Hey on 3rd and 9th July 1994. 7 pairs attempted breeding, 4 pairs confirmed at Grane 1995 (ROC). They frequent our area on a spasmodic regular basis dependant on the maturity of the pine cones. Odd years we get greater influxes probably from the Scandinavias. It is believed that our so called regulars combine the areas of Entwistle, Wayoh and other nearby areas within their territories. At least 3 pairs bred at Grane during 1998 (ROC). Present during the winter of 2008, seen most mornings in small flocks whilst vismig watching.

BULLFINCH (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) Six at Grane on 21st July 1978. One in field near Duke of Wellington on 28th July 1978. A female at Calf Hey 5th November 1986. A male in Fairy Glen 7th December 1986. Two at Calf Hey on 10th October 1987. A male was present at Holden Vale on 21st March 1993 (ROC). Present during March 1997 with a pair at Holden Vale and also a pair at Calf Hey (ROC). Present in Sunnybank and probably old railway track areas. Status during nineties unchanged.

HAWFINCH (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) A single seen at Grane thought to be of this species on 10th July 1977.

SNOW BUNTING (Plectrophenax nivalis) Recorded fairly frequently on moor in Winter (O&B). Birds on Musbury Heights on 24th February 1971 (ROC). Eight seen behind Musbury Tor on 15th and 18th November 1980 (NB). One at Rushy Hill on 2nd February 1988.

REED BUNTING (Emberiza schoeniclus) A breeder at Haslingden Grane and Musbury. One male in song on Holden Wood Reservoir on 18th March 1986. One female on Holden Wood Reservoir on January 20th 1987. Bred at Holden Wood Reservoir during 1987. A dead juvenile found at side of road near Clough Head on June 18th 1987. This species was said to be common in rushy parts of the Haslingden and Oswaldtwistle Moors where a nest with 5 young was found on 25th May 1989. Bred on Haslingden Moor 1991. Bred on Holden Wood Flash, Holden Vale Reservoir and Haslingden Moor 1994. Bred on Holden Vale during 1996 (ROC). The species was again present at Holden Wood during the 1998 breeding season. Bred in fields rear of Clough Head Inf Centre in 2002 & 2003.



FURTHER RECORDS WOULD BE VERY WELCOME:-
Bryan Yorke, 17 Mowbray Drive, Burton In Kendal LA6 1NF tel: 01524781562 or mobile: 07723934759 (Em: bryan.yorke@sky.com

GRANE’S BUTTERFLIES (Records begin from the millenium)

WALL BROWN A single seen feeding amongst the spent thistle near too and on the West side of the Hartley House Planting area of Calf Hey on 16th Aug 2003.

MEADOW BROWN Probably the commonest and most widespread butterfly of all and familiar throughout Grane.

PEACOCK Regularly seen anywhere along the Western side of Calf Hey. I have witnessed specimens from April onwards, and my last sighting of the year was on August 16th (2003). Numerous July 26th 2006 – Top of Calf Hey Res.

PAINTED LADY Seen near too Hartley House Planting, splayed out on the floor, 16th Aug 2003 – this seems to be one of those years where Painted Ladies have been seen everywhere.

SMALL TORTOISESHELL Common Throughout Grane.

SMALL COPPER I have noticed a small colony of this species during the late 90s and into the millenium at the small ruin at Higher Doles on the sides of the Haslingden Moor. A single near Top O'th Knoll pathway 31st Aug 2008

SMALL BLUE It has been reported to me that populations are present near thet Holden Wood reservoir and also at the late Holden Vale Flash area.

RED ADMIRAL Quite common throughout Grane, my latest sighting of the year for this species over the many years of watching has been on November 2nd during the 1980s. Numerous July 26th 2006 – Top of Calf Hey Res.

GREEN HAIRSTREAK First noted this species western flank of Calf Hey during April 2002. During that same year I also noted large colonies at another site on the sides of Musbury Heights feeding on the leaves of the Crowberry.

GREEN VEINED WHITE Common

ORANGE TIP Common

LARGE WHITE Common

COMMA A couple of sightings of very different butterflies where seen feeding on Thistle at the top end of the Calf Hey Reservoir on July 26th 2006.

GATEKEEPER or Hedge Brown. Several of this species where feeding on Thistle at the top end of the Calf Hey Reservoir on July 26th 2006. And a new colony of at least 20 at rear of Top O'th Knoll Planting closeby the wood mushroom sculptures, with some also along the pathway in front of Top O'th Knoll - August 10th 2008.