Hawfinches at Cromford

 Since the first report of a single Hawfinch at Cromford this winter on 8th December they have been seen fairly regular since. Generally in the trees around the entrance to Willersley Castle or nearby at St Mary's Church. 

Most reports were of a single bird in December although Clive Ashton saw 4 on 10th December. In January 3 birds have been seen several times but there were 6 birds reported yesterday and Robin Elliot had 4 there today and took the photo below.

Hawfinch © Robin Elliot

Occasionally birds have wintered in Darley Dale with exceptional numbers during a UK wide influx in the winter of 2018 when there were up to 35 at St Helen's Church but they have not been seen there since. 

The attraction to churchyards is generally due to the presence of Yew trees and their berries which are a favoured food of the Hawfinch.