As is traditional for this tour we started early, but not too early to enjoy the fantastic sights and sounds of the Black Grouse Lek in the southern parts of Teesdale. We were treated to fantastic views of at least 30 males, it was a bright sunny morning with little breeze, which made for a memorable visit to the Lek site. Birds at this Lek have been noted displaying in the afternoon too, showing the variable nature of behaviour between Lek sites.
(Black Grouse at their Lek site in Teesdale on 27 April 2024)
It wasn't all about woodland grouse, Weardale and Teesdale are also famous for their displaying wading birds, species that you might be used to seeing on the coast take on a whole new form when they are displaying on their breeding grounds. All the usual suspects were in attendance with Lapwing, Eurasian Curlew, Redshank, and of course Common Snipe.
(Backlit Common Snipe performing its 'chipping' call from a fencepost)
After the excitement of the Lek site we moved onto a nearby stream where we had yet more displaying waders, with close views of bubbling Eurasian Curlews and our first Common Sandpipers of the day. From here it was time for a walk, yet more close views of several stunning male Black Grouse and we also happened upon a rather excellent Lapwing nest. Our walk was most productive, with both Kestrel and Peregrine in terms of raptors, quite a few Northern Wheatears and no fewer than six Ring Ouzels, with three of each sex noted. Common Sandpipers were displaying and we had males fighting over prospective mates. Special mention also has to go to the singing Willow Warblers which were clearly taking full advantage of the pretty still morning.
(Lapwing nest found on our walk)
We finished the day around midday after a hearty breakfast in Middleton-in-Teesdale. Another memorable early spring visit to Teesdale was complete.