Spots to see a kingfisher?

[ricbritain]

Hi,

I am fairly new to bird watching. I've been going to Saltholme for just over a year. I have always wanted to see a kingfisher, but have only once seen one zip past while on a boat a few years ago. I understand that they are not as difficult to see locally as I'd thought. I guy told me that Cowpen Bewley woodland walk is a good spot. I went the other day but didn't see anything. I just wondered where else I might stand a chance of finding some and if this time of year is favourable. I live in Redcar so the closer to home the better.

Thanks.

[A McLee]

At this time of the year, especially if the rivers are flooded and muddy, the birds frequent still water bodies which are clear to see to fish in ( this includes sea side rock pools and edges of piers). They are jumpy birds and it is best to go looking early before the general public is about. Locke Park and TVWT's Coatham Marsh are likely spots and easy for early watching. Try Margrove Ponds. I often score at an undisturbed spot ( for reasons which will be obvious when visited) It's where a beck joins the Tees near the old Smiths dock site - look either side of the road bridge. OS Map 93 at 206 516. Park and slowly approach the bridge or all you will see is a departing bird. This site is quiet and good at any time of teh day.
Kood luck Ali McLee

[Lockhart]

Hi Ali,

I don't wish to be rude but that map reference doesn't plot on OS93 (although it does plot on 88).  Do you mean 516 206 (eastings then northings, as they say on the OS maps), which is a short distance east of Middlesbrough football stadium?

On the general subject, I don't have a reliable spot for kingfishers, but Saltholme seems to get one or two in winter (often elusive), they can sometimes be seen near the Tees Barrage, and I've also seen them a couple of times (in winter) at Hartlepool Marina.

[A McLee]

OOPS! You are quite right of course horizontal first then verticals.
OS Landranger is my map; number 93.
kingfisher today from cafe at S.

[ricbritain]

Thanks for the replies.

Have Kingfisher been seen in Locke park then? That seems incredible. What does TVWT stand for? Where are Margrove Ponds?

Sorry for all the questions.

[A McLee]

Google Tees Valley Wildlife Trust look at there map and they are near Margrove Ponds.
Buy OS Landranger 94 too.

[A McLee]

Also, I have just recalled that Margrove Ponds are listed on this website in the section on birding sites.

[Ray Simpson]

I have seen one at Skelton Beck in Saltburn Valley Gardens , also the pond in Guisborough Forrest.