West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 60 1993 Little Stint, Blithfield, September 1993. (Phill Ward) West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 60 1993

The Annual Report of the West Midland Bird Club on the birds in the counties of , , and . Contents 2 Officers and Committee 3 Editor's Report 4 Birds in 1993 12 Hon. Treasurer's Report 14 Secretary's Report 15 Field Meeting Secretary's Report 15 Permit Secretary's Report 16 Membership Secretary's Report 16 Research Committee Report 16 Staffordshire Branch Report 17 Belvide Report 18 Nature Reserve 19 The Red Grouse in Staffordshire 21 Survey of the Breeding Waders of Lowland Wet Meadows in Central Staffordshire 1993 27 1993 Bird Record Localities 33 Classified Notes 169 Short Notes 172 Ringing in 1993 178 Key to Contributors 180 Submission of Records

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Officers and Committee 1994 President C A Norris Vice Presidents F C Gribble, W E Oddie Chairman *A J Richards, 1 Lansdowne Road, Studley, Warwickshire B80 7JG Deputy Chairman *G R Harrison, 'Bryher', Hatton Green, Hatton, Warwickshire CV35 7LA Secretary *H M MacGregor, 74 Ivyfield Road, Erdington, B23 7HH Treasurer *D J Hall, 160 Browns Lane, Knowle, B93 9BD Report Editor J J Bowley, 8 Greenodd Drive, Woodshires Green, CV6 6LT Bulletin Editor J P South, The Croft, Lower Road, , (from January 1995) Membership Secretary J O Reeves, 9 Hintons Coppice, Knowle, Solihull B93 9RF Field Meetings Secretary P M Pratt, 110 Lyndon Road, Solihull B92 7RQ Permit Secretary M A Surman, 6 Lloyd Square, 12 Niall Close, Birmingham B15 3LX Ringing Secretary *A E Coleman, 67 Park Lane, Bonehill, Tamworth, Stafford- and Promotion, shire B78 3HZ Fund Raising and General Purposes Committee Chairman Research and *J R Winsper, 32 Links Road, Hollywood, Birmingham B14 Reserves 4TP • Committee Chairman Solihull Branch Chairman G A Morley, 64 Cambridge Avenue, Solihull B91 1QF Staffordshire Branch Chairman F C Gribble, 22 Rickerscote Avenue, Stafford, Staffordshire ST17 4EZ Tamworth Branch Chairman B Stubbs, 19 Alfred Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire Warwickshire Recorder S M Haynes, 4 Spinney Close, Old Arley, Coventry CV7 8PD Worcestershire Recorder S M Whitehouse, 5 Stanway Close, Rudyard Gardens, Black- pole, Worcester WR4 9XL Staffordshire Recorder G N Jones, 4 The Poplars, . Road, Abbots Bromley, , Staffordshire WS15 3AA 3

Wesf Midlands Recorder T C Hextell, 49 Cradley Croft, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 8HP Executive Council D Coles, D B Dunstan, J Neal (Minutes Sec ), P J Rollin, T Smart Records Committee J J Bowley, S M Haynes, T C Hextell, G N Jones, W J Low, S M Whitehouse 'Officers serving on the Executive Council

Editor's Report Taking on the post of Editor has been a whole new experience for me and initially quite daunting, knowing what an excellant job Steve Norman had achieved. Few people realise what a massive task it entails, being in essence four county reports rolled into one! Many apologies are necessary for the late publication of this, the 60th Annual Report; this is partly due to my own inexperience and partly to circumstances beyond my control. I have made few changes to the current layout, although the introduction of a Short Notes section will I hope be acceptable. For this I need short accounts of local interest, such as unusual behaviour, birds with aberrant plumages, interesting hybrids, new breeding birds, rarity accounts and summaries of local studies. AN contributions of notes and main articles will be most welcome but these should reach me by October 1. I would also welcome good quality prints or slides and in particular pen-and-ink artwork for publication. Contributions have been noticeably thin on the ground in recent years - where are all the young up-and-coming artists and photographers? In recent years the Report has suffered from increasing size, so at present we are looking at ways of redesigning it to make it more cost efficient, without reducing its quality or content. Any ideas (or criticisms!) would be gratefully received. Many people seem to regard the Report merely as a vehicle for publishing records of rare vagrants and rarely send in any of common birds. Although this is one function that it plays, a more important role in this day and age must be the documentation of our common birds, which after all are the most important part of our avifauna. We desperately need to know more about the local population trends of many species that are steadily declining at a national level, among them can be named Lapwing, Turtle Dove, Skylark, Yellow Wagtail, Song Thrush, Tree Sparrow, Linnet, Yellowhammer and Corn Bunting. If we could set up a base-line of sites which produce annual comparitive counts of breeding territories of as many species as possible, we would significantly improve our knowledge. I therefore urgently request that all CBC counters and workers of local patches send in their figures to the recorders, preferably stating the size of their area. Remember that although to you they might seem insignificant, your data helps to build up an important picture of what is happening at a Regional level. Finally I would like to remind observers that all species listed at the back of the Report should be accompanied by adequate descriptions. If records are rejected due to insufficient documentation, the Records Committee will be willing to reconsider them if new information is forthcoming. This includes all records pre-dating the current year. 4

To conclude I would like to sincerely thank all those who made this Report possible, in particular the authors of the articles and Short Notes, all contributors to the Classified Notoc and tho following: The county recorders and their teams: Warwickshire: Steve Haynes. Worcestershire: Steve Whitehouse, Gavin Peplow, Francis Peplow, John Sirrett and Fiona Skinner. Staffordshire: Gilly Jones, Bill Low, Eric Clare, John Martin, Ben Reavey, Trevor Smart and Mark Sutton. West Midlands: Tim Hextell and Mark James. The Artists: Phil Jones, Terry Parker and John Teasdale. The Photographers: Graham Soden, B M Ward and Phill Ward. The Cartographer: Graham Harrison WMBC Hotline Operator: Eric Clare (01283 791171) Finally very special thanks must go to the staff at C H Healey and in particular to my wife Dawn, without whose help this Report would never have been completed. J J Bowley

Birds in 1993

During 1993 a total of 228 species were recorded in the Region, including Arctic Warbler, an addition to the Regional List. It was a good year for vagrants in general, with Cattle Egret, Purple Heron, White Stork, Kentish Plover, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Caspian Tern, Richard's Pipit and Icterine, Pallas's and Yellow-browed Warblers all seen. In addition three rare subspecies were recorded: Green-winged Teal, and Regional firsts for Black-bellied Dipper and Iberian Chiffchaff. I must also draw your attention to two unpublished 1992 records, namely the first Regional Red- breasted Flycatcher and the third record of Serin. Coming back to 1993, there were no unusual weather conditions, although rainfall was above average. The winters remained generally mild, apart from short cold snaps in January and November, thus helping many resident species to increase their numbers. The summer was mainly cool and damp but with some warm spells. The most notable ornithological events were an early arrival of summer migrants and a remarkable autumn wader passage; the latter helped undoubtably by prevailing easterly winds. Breeding successes were mixed but generally, many passerines did well, while the scarcer ducks and waders seemed to be down. Two exciting events were the confirmation of breeding Peregrines in Staffordshire and the first ever nesting Cetti's Warblers.

January was mild but windy during most of the month, -apart from the first four days when cold continental air brought severe frost and freezing fog. This triggered off wader movements which brought five Grey Plover, three Sanderling and two Knot to the Region between 3 and 6. It was a good month for the "year ticker", with a selection of long stayers present, including Great Northern Diver, Slavonian Grebe, two Brent Geese, Ferruginous Duck, five Smew, two Red-breasted Mergansers, a pair of Hen Harriers on the moors, one Black Redstart, Cetti's Warblers at two sites, two 5

Firecrests and two Bearded Tits. Stonechats were in high numbers, while Merlins and Peregrines were widespread. The first Worcs Green-winged Teal was seen at 's Hardwick during the first week. Severe westerly gales to the north of Britain from the 5 brought a white-winged gull invasion to Shetland and many birds filtered south. Keen observers at the gull roosts totalled up at least a dozen each of Iceland and Glaucous together with 13-15 Mediterranean and many Yellow-legged Gulls between then and March. Strong westerly winds from 10 to 12 initiated an influx of Kittiwakes, with over 30 logged during the last two weeks, a trickle continuing into February. Records after 25 probably involved birds that were blown into the North Sea and were finding their way back west via the Thames Valley, as huge flocks were seen there around this time. Also on 12, a movement of 200 Pink-footed Geese was noted over Cheadle, with ten Whooper Swans at Belvide next day. At least three Bitterns appeared, including two on 15 and 16, with birds staying into February. Unfortunately, several records remain undocumented, but the true number was probably over six. Finally a Hen Harrier in Warwickshire on 30 was a good record.

February was mainly mild and overcast with a south-west wind. The most notable event was an amazing invasion of Shags, with between 50 and 60 recorded in the Region from 3 onwards, starting with an unparalleled 24 at Reservoir on this date. A Whooper Swan was found on a pond in the also on the 3. Twelve Brent Geese at Westport on 9 heralded widespread reports of wild geese during the period 14-21, coinciding with a huge influx on the east coast. White-fronted Geese totalled 38, while a number of Pink-footed Geese and two more Brent Geese were also seen. Also apparently associated with these records were flocks of 50 Bewick's Swans at on 16 and 70 over on 18. A Slavonian Grebe on 25 was the only new bird of note late in the month.

Snow showers and a strong east wind ushered in March but things soon improved, with a mild southerly airflow dominating from 6. Many winter birds took advantage of this to leave early. A flock of Siskins gathering in a Worcs wood was estimated at being an incredible 1300 to 1700 strong on 7, the largest count ever in the Region. Also during the first week, a Brent Goose, a Firecrest on 2 and an early Hoopoe on 3, were followed by two more Slavonian Grebes. With the change to southerlies from 6 several Black-tailed Godwits began to pass through, while a rush of early summer migrants occurred during 10 to 14, with Sand Martin, Little Ringed Plover, White Wagtail, Northern Wheatear, Black Redstart, many Chiffchaffs and Ring Ouzel all appearing. The highlight was a Richard's Pipit discovered at on 14, which stayed into early April. After the 14 the winds changed to westerlies and the weather became more unsettled but still a trickle of new migrants appeared, including very early Willow Warbler on 17 and House Martin on 19, Garganey on 20, Firecrest on 22, Swallow on 23 and Osprey on 25. Several Rock and Water Pipits also began to pass through. A further influx of migrants from 26 to 31 brought in many hirundines, as well as four Black Redstarts, four Ring Ouzels and Yellow Wagtail, together with exceptionally early Tree Pipit and Whitethroat.

April was unsettled but remained mainly mild and sunny, with damp cyclonic weather 6

and a light southerly or westerly airstream. This situation helped migrants to continue to come in very early. In the first week there was Osprey on 2 and 5, Red-necked Grebe and Firecrest on 3 and both Redstart and Hobby on 4. From 9 to 15 an exciting period ensued, with passages of Common Scoter (16 to 18 birds on 9 and 10), Little Gulls, Common, Arctic and Sandwich Terns, three Black Redstarts, two Blue-headed Wagtails and many early passerines such as Whinchat, Grasshopper, Sedge, Reed and Garden Warblers, Lesser Whitethroat and Pied Flycatcher. A large influx of Willow Warblers occurred right across the Region on 10 when a peak count of 20 Northern Wheatears occurred at Crossplains. The highlights of this period however were Bittern and Red Kite, both on 13. Whimbrels began to pass through daily from 16, and in greater numbers than of late. The first Black-necked Grebe of the year appeared on 17, followed by a concentrated passage of over 40 White Wag- tails from then to the 19. Seven Ring Ouzels were found on 20 and 21, when many Swifts started to arrive. Yellow Wagtail passage peaked between 23 and 25 and with them a couple of late Water Pipits and more White Wagtails were discovered. The wind veered round to south-easterlies from 24 and with it several exciting birds appeared. The Dosthill area was the place to be on 24, with a fine summer-plumaged Red-necked Grebe and the Region's earliest ever Temminck's Stint nearby on North Pit. Fortunately both stayed for most local birders to catch up with them. Also on 24, a Hen Harrier and the year's second Hoopoe appeared in Warks. Next day a Little Stint, a Marsh Harrier and over 35 Arctic Terns were seen. A Fulmar at on 28 was followed by another summer-plumaged Red-necked Grebe (a first for Valley) and a passage of Black Terns on 29 and another Black-necked Grebe on 30.

May continued unsettled, alternating between warm soulherlies and colder, wetter south-easterly or even north-easterly winds. There was much of interest, starting with the first Staffs Purple Heron this century on 2. An exciting passage of Dotterel then followed, with up to nine on Bredon Hill from 3 to 6 and five at the more traditional site at Morridge on 8 and 9. Garganey also started arriving in numbers on 8 and 9, when other birds included a late flock of 150 Fieldfares and two more Blue-headed Wagtails. On 9 a Mediterranean Gull and a party of Kittiwakes was the harbinger of widespread tern passage during easterly winds from 10 to 13. Black Terns were everywhere with a peak of over 157 on 11, when 20 Arctic Terns and several Little Terns were also seen. The highlights however, were a Caspian Tern on 10 and Roseate Tern on 12, both watched by single observers at Dosthill. Wader passage during this period of easterlies remained interesting, with three more Temminck's Stints from 9-14 as well as Bar-tailed Godwits (26) and Sanderlings. The undoubted highlight was a superb male Kentish Plover at Draycote on 14 and 15, while a Spanish Wagtail was found at Tittesworth next day. Another Roseate Tern was more obliging, staying on the river at Eckington from 19 to 21. Several Ospreys passed through and both Red-throated Diver and Black-necked Grebe visited the Region. One of the features of the colder unsettled period from 14 to 27 were the huge flocks of low flying Swifts on many of the larger waters. The earliest ever Marsh Warbler came back to the Avon Valley on 15, while both Quail and Spotted Crake were heard on 16, the latter calling again on 18. A Fulmar and nine Kittiwakes were reported on 23. On 26 and 27 small parties of Black and Arctic Terns appeared during a further 7

spell of easterlies, with many arctic-breeding waders, including a dozen Sanderling and a scatter of Knot, Grey Plover, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper and Bar-tailed Godwit, mostly in fine summer plumage. The month ended on a high, with a White Stork at on 28, an Osprey at Dosthill on 29 and 15 Black-tailed Godwits at Darton on 31. Early June was dominated by warm southerly anticyclonic weather, particularly from 6 to 10, which brought in a few late southern migrants, including a Marsh Harrier on 4, a probable Montagu's Harrier on 6, a Golden Oriole on 8 and a Little Egret on 7. Colder air moved in from the Atlantic on the 11, bringing driving rain, floods and an Arctic Skua. The rest of the month was settled but cooler, with some warm spells. Waders started to return again from 10 after barely a four day lull from the end of spring passage. Black-tailed Godwits were especially frequent. Oddities included Fulmar on 19, a dead Gannet on 23, a Honey Buzzard on 25 and a Red Kite, which was tracked across Birmingham on 29. Very few Quail were heard.

The first week of July remained settled but this was followed by westerly winds from 8, which brought unsettled cyclonic weather, with frequent rain and occasional thunderstorms. Ornithologically the month was rather quiet; although the Icterine Warbler that appeared at Belvide on 10 was totally unexpected. Other highlights of the early part included an influx of over 50 Crossbills at three sites between 4 and 10, several Quail, a Little Tern on 9 and a couple of Black Redstarts. Wader passage began to pick up during the month with several species being unusually numerous. High counts included 34 Green Sandpipers at Brandon, 33 Common Sandpipers at Draycote and up to 21 Little Ringed Plovers at both Belvide and Draycote. No fewer than ten Yellow-legged Gulls were in Warks on 26 and 27, reflecting the current increase in this newly-promoted species, while an influx of 15 early Arctic Terns occurred during 26-29. An Osprey also arrived at Blithfield on 26 and stayed well into August.

Early August continued unsettled, with westerly winds bringing frequent rain until 16 but thereon the weather was fine and warm, with a light northerly wind. Highlights remained few early in the month: a small Arctic Tern passage continued on 1 and 5, a Red Kite on 6, single Black-necked Grebes on 7 and 8, and a long staying Cetti's Warbler in Worcs from 8. Things picked up on 12, with an Arctic Skua, an early Hen Harrier and a spectacular arrival of 8-12 Little Egrets (up to 21), the latter reflecting the high numbers arriving on the south coast at this time from France. Yellow Wagtail passage reached a peak mid-month, while some spectacular wader counts included 27 Turnstone at Draycote on 17, 116 Ringed Plover at Blithfield on 22, and 23 Knot at two sites on 24 and 25. On 21 there was a peak of nine Garganey at Blithfield, while the first viewable Spotted Crake since 1989 arrived at , staying into September. On 22 four Arctic Skuas and 30-35 Sandwich Terns passed through the Region. Marsh Harriers totalled four during the second half of the month, while no fewer than eight Red-crested Pochards during the same period may hint at post-breeding dispersal from feral populations in Gloucs. During the last week of the month, species probably originating from the east appeared, with six Curlew Sandpipers, an increase in Little Stints (an indication of things to come), four Black-necked Grebes, a Honey Buzzard (on 29) and a Wryneck (on 31). 8

The fine weather continued into early September but then on 6 the wind swung round from northerlies to easterlies bringing frequent heavy rain, making it the wettest, coldest and dullest September for ten years. On the other hand it also produced the best September birding in the Region for many years. During the first week a trickle of interesting birds included a second Spotted Crake at Doxey, a Wryneck on 2 and 3, a peak of 11 Curlew Sandpipers at Blithfield on 3, a Purple Sandpiper and Marsh Harrier on 4, Black-necked Grebe and Hen Harrier on 5 and an Arctic Skua on 7. Next day, heavy showers brought in 23 Black Terns (16 at Draycote), the best day for this species in a surprisingly poor autumn, and 12 Whinchats at Brandon. The high- light however was the discovery of an Arctic Warbler at Blithfield from 8 to 11, a first for the Region. This marked the start of an excellent period, with a deluge of other birds from the east, particularly waders. During 8 to 14, there were peaks of 25 Little Stint, 12 Curlew Sandpiper, 45 Ruff and 103 Dunlin at Draycote; 38 Little Stint and 28 Ruff at Blithfield; and 26 Little Stint, 13 Curlew Sandpiper and 28 Ruff at Belvide. On 14, a passage of no fewer than 60 Grey Plover were recorded at three sites. Other birds during this period included a flock of 26 Little Gulls at Draycote, two more Wrynecks, three Firecrests, a Grey Phalarope, two Arctic Skuas, an early Redwing and an Osprey. Heavy wagtail passage at Draycote on 12 included 130 Yellow, 140 Pied and two White Wagtails. The return to more settled conditions from 15 resulted in fewer birds, although on 17 ten Little Gulls appeared across the Region, with a scatter of Redstarts and other migrants. Up to three Black-necked Grebes visited Westwood from 18 to 29, while a Shag appeared from 19 to 29. Also on 19 the first Fieldfare arrived and Siskins became widespread, followed by Jack Snipe next day and 45 Crossbills in the Wyre Forest on 21. An Osprey in Packington Park on 23 stayed into October and a late Quail was seen on 24. Wader passage was still good 9 at the reservoirs and on 26, birders arriving at Draycote to see a Pectoral Sandpiper were amazed to find that Warks first Buff-breasted Sandpiper was also present; both stayed to 28. The month closed with Arctic Skua on 29 and Red-necked Grebe at Dosthill from 30 into early October.

October was dominated by easterly winds, with some heavy rain during the first half but also recording some sunny days. Early in the month, the last Whinchat and Spotted Flycatcher were seen on 2 but in general summer migrants left early with few seen after the first week, apart from Blackcaps and Chiffchaffs. A Dotterel in Warks on 3 was unusual, while the Buff-breasted Sandpiper was rediscovered at Draycote the same day and became more obliging, staying to 9. On 4, Warks first Pallas's Warbler was watched in a Kenilworth garden, although it was not reported at the time. A Black-necked Grebe appeared on 8, while the 9 was a good day with both Marsh and Hen Harriers at Draycote, a Dotterel was over the Malverns and the first Brambling and Water Pipit appeared. The first of six Rock Pipits were also seen. Next day was a fine day and ideal for visible migration; large movements of birds were noted including Jackdaws, thrushes, Meadow Pipits, Skylarks, Redpolls, Siskins and Chaffinches. Late Hobby and Whimbrel were seen together with a Shag, but the place to be was Happy Valley in the Malverns, where four Ring Ouzels and only the second Regional Yellow-browed Warbler were discovered. Things began to quieten down in mid-October though good numbers of Stonechats were passing through and Golden Plover peaked at 4000 at Wellesbourne, a Regional record. A Red-throated Diver was at Blithfield, several Red-breasted Mergansers appeared and a flock of 103 Pink-footed Geese flew south-east over Westport on 14. Three Bean Geese arrived on 19 for several days, followed by a Red Kite on 21 and 22, a moribund Little Auk on 23, the only Great Grey Shrike of the year on 24 and a couple of Medi- terranean Gulls. Crossbill passage was noted along the Malverns from 24 and two flocks totalling 95 were in the Wyre Forest district on 26 and 27. Yet another good bird was found in Worcs on 25, the Region's second Cattle Egret. This bird stayed for much of the remainder of the year and unlike the first, it allowed all interested birders to see it. An early Smew on 26, nine Barnacle Geese on 27 and a Shag on 30 marked the beginning of colder autumnal days; thousands of winter thrushes appeared at the same time. However, a few tardy summer migrants still turned up with Swallow and White Wagtail on 27, House Martin on 29 and Ring Ouzel on 30. The last day of the month saw an unprecedented influx of Eiders with 15 across the Region, arriving along side a Red-throated Diver, some Scaup and a Little Gull.

November opened with rather chilly overcast conditions, dominated by a south-east wind produced by an anticyclone sitting over Northern Europe. Westerlies brought heavy rain during the second week. The Eider influx continued, with over a dozen new birds appearing during the first half of the month, together with up to eight Little Gulls (up to the 6) apparently associated with them. Several species were more numerous than normal, including Bramblings (there were flocks of 60 in Warks, 300 in Worcs and 800 in Staffs) and Blackcaps. Small influxes of Bearded Tits (11 at five sites) and Hawfinches (14 at six sites from 5 to the year's end) occurred. Also during this period a Slavonian Grebe, 15 Barnacle Geese (at Blithfield on 3) and a couple of Snow Buntings were seen. A very late Northern Wheatear on 13, was followed in mid- 10 month by the Region's first Black-bellied Dipper, found on a small brook running into the Anker at Weddington. A flock of 91 Pink-footed Geese flew south-east at Tittesworth on 14, while a couple of Brent Geese also appeared. Hen Harriers were seen on the North Staffs Moors, while singles also turned up at Doxey on 13 and in Worcs on 17. Freezing continental weather was pushed in from 18 to 24, with snow falling from 21 and night-time temperatures down to -9°c. This initiated a huge influx of wildfowl to Draycote, including 1040 Tufted Duck and 309 Great-crested Grebe, both high counts for this site. A flock of 12 Common Scoter here on 17 was followed by no fewer than 18 Eider on 19, while a small influx of geese included up to nine

Bean Geese IJohn Teasdale)

White-fronted Geese in Worcs, a Bean Goose at Doxey and a flock of 25 Brents flying south-east here on 21. Also during this cold snap, there was a Red-throated Diver, five Scaup at Lea Marston, a Bittern at Blithfield and another Snow Bunting. During the last week a thaw took place, with a milder south-easterly airstream and frequent rain. A number of interesting birds continued to move about the area. Two different Red Kites appeared on 27/28 and stayed to overwinter; likewise a Hen Harrier on Cannock Chase on 27 also stayed. Other birds during 27-30 included single Great Northern Diver and Red-throated Diver, another Bittern, a Brent Goose, two Bean Geese, six Whooper Swans at Tittesworth and two Little Gulls at Jubilee Pools. A remarkably late House Martin was seen at Brandon on 29.

The wind swung around to the usually predominant westerlies from November 30, giving December generally above average temperatures and frequent rain. Some light snow falls happened mainly during the last week. More geese were discovered during the first week with about 32 White-fronts (mainly in Worcs), together with several small groups of Barnacle Geese, a Bean Goose at Bredon's Hardwick (only the third Worcs record), and six Whooper Swans at Knypersley. A Water Pipit at Belvide on 1 was the only late year record, while an overwintering Great Northern Diver appeared at Dray- 11 cote on 2 and a Hen Harrier was at Brandon on 5. A Little Egret at Belvide on 7 and 8 was the first ever winter record in the Region. A Chiffchaff present at Draycote from 4 was identified as being of the Scandinavian race, while another apparently over- wintering migrant was a Quail in Staffs on 11. Yet another Bean Goose turned up in Staffs on 14 and this was followed at Draycote by single Red-throated Diver on 15 and Red-necked Grebe on 16. Twelve Barnacle Geese grazed at Blithfield on 20 and 21, while a Bittern at Ladywalk was a good find. Otherwise things were fairly quiet until Christmas Eve. Temperatures then fell and frequent light snow showers from 24 to 31 brought in four Glaucous and three Iceland Gulls to the Region, while wintering Smew increased to eight. An unusual flock of 25 Kittiwakes were seen at Netherton on 24, followed at Tittesworth by 17 Whooper Swans on 25 and 120 Pink-footed Geese on 26. Also on this day, a Red-necked Grebe, Eider and unusually, two single Black Redstarts were found. Six Barnacle Geese spent the last few days of the year at Draycote, but the well-watched Worcs Cattle Egret was not seen after the 27, having moved into Gloucestershire. J J Bowley 12

Hon. Treasurer's Report Balance Sheet at 31st December, 1993 1993 1992 Fund Balances £ £ General Fund 13389 16084 Development Fund 62904 61861 Stafford Conservation Fund 2161 2281 78454 80226

Fund Balances represented by:- Flxed Assets Fred Dale Reserve at cost 7500 7500 (Timber Rights) Computers at cost 7912 = Total Fixed Assets 15412 7500

Current Assets Stocks on hand 183 384 National Savings Income Bond 8000 8000 COIF Deposit 30000 30000 Cash at Bank and on hand 30321 42842 Sundry Debtors and Prepayments 1055 1422 Interest Free Loan - Bardsey Bird Observatory 1500 2000 71059 Total Assets 86471 Current Liabilities Sundry Creditors 5878 Subscriptions/Permit Fees in Advance 2139 8017 11922 Total Net Assets 78454 80226

Income And Expenditure Account Year Ended 31st December, 1993 1993 1992 Income £ £ Subscriptions Received 13963 11262 Interest Received (net of transfer 724 1512 to Development Fund) Gifts and Donations 14 161 Total Income 14672 12935

Expenditure 1993 1992 "Branches" Cost Recoveries Net Stafford 1700 671 1029 673 Solihull 401 1 400 347 Studley 40 — 40 117 Tamworth 40 177 224 121 Main 805 1 804 723 Field Meetings 2795 2725 70 (175) Sales Activities 284 622 (338) 268 loss/(profit) 13

"Reserves" Belvide 2987 3669 (682) (858) Blithfield 2420 2555 (135) (2690) Ladywalk 517 1510 (993) (989) Miscellaneous 609 — 609 158

Annual Report/Bulletins 13865 512 13353 13639 Printing/Postage/Stationery 1971 1874 Committee Meetings 532 342 Audit 100 200 Insurance 200 185 Miscellaneous 383 640 Total Expenditure 17567 14575

Deficit For The Year 2695 1640

Funds Movement Year Ended 319t December, 1993 General Development Stafford Fund Fund Conservation Fund E £ E E £ £ 1993 1992 1993 1992 1993 1992

Opening Balances 16084 74724 61861 — 2281 2144 Fund Transfers (57000) 57000 add Interest Recevied 2784 4861 63 141 Donations Received 96 less Net expenditure Hartxjme Reserve (1241) Donation re: Brandon (500) Other expenditure (183) (100) Deficit in year (2695) (1640) Closing Balances 13389 16084 62904 61861 2161 2281

West Midland Bird Club I have examined the accounting records Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Accounts of the club. In my opinion these accounts give a true and fair view of the state of the Club's affairs at 31st December, 1993, and the excess of expenditure over income for the year ended on that date. R. W. Bradley 10th March, 1994 F.C.M.A., M.B.I.M.

D J Hall Hon. Treasurer 14

Secretary's Report Lookinq back over the past year, the highlight of 1993 has undoubtedly been the open- ing of the Harborne Nature Reserve, the Clubs' first urban reserve; which is located within the City of Birmingham boundary. The official opening took place on the 1st May, by the Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Frederick Chapman. The event was well attended by members and local residents, and was also featured in the local press and on Central Television. We were also fortunate to enrol 11 new members on the day. Two major and important tasks were undertaken by the Main Committee during the year. The first one was the bringing into being of the Club's new Rules, the last revision having taken place in January 1981. The up-to-date Rules are more relevant and have been duly approved by the Charity Commissioners. The second task, has been the complete reorganisation of the Club's committee structure and it is hoped that the new changes will improve efficiency and running of the Club. We would particularly like to thank the new General Purposes, Promotions & Fund Raising Committee, the Club Rules Sub-Committee and David Hall, for all the hard work this has involved in bringing matters to fruition. On a personal note, we were all saddened to hear of the death of George Arnold on the 9th May. George had been an active fieldworker and conservationist for more than fifty years. He became a member of the club in 1947, and will be best remembered for his work at Alvecote Pools and around the Tamworth district. The Ruddy Duck situation and with it the threat to the Spanish population of the White- headed Duck has been a major item on our agenda. The WMBC has considered the matter carefully at Main Committee and issued a policy statement. 1993 heralded a number of changes in personnel. Peter Dedicoat and Trevor Smart joined the main committee, while Steve Cawthray was appointed Hon. Head Warden at Ladywalk Nature Reserve. Steve Norman our Annual Report Editor, announced his intention not to seek re- election and whilst we are sorry to loose Steve, we would like to express our thanks to him for being responsible for the last four Annual Reports. Similarly, Peter Rollin our Bulletin Editor is to give up his position due to other commitments. We would like to thank Peter for looking after the Club's Bulletin over the last five years, and for giving the Bulletin its new image. Daphne Dunstan and helpers continue to represent the Club at Country Shows and the WMBC was present at events at the Lickey Hills, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Town & Country Show (Stoneleigh), Gardeners Weekend (Kings Healh Park) and at the RSPB Sandwell Valley Reserve. Members will of course be pleased to hear that the club gave its support to the Brandon Marsh Reserve Appeal launched by the Warwickshire Nature Conservation Trust, and we were able to give a donation of £500.00. The 1993 Research Grant was awarded to Bert Coleman to assist and promote the work of a long-term Swan Study in Staffordshire. Once again, we are conscious of the support we receive from our respective branches. Staffordshire are still actively invol- ved in fieldwork projects; this year undertaking a Farmland Bunting Survey and a 15

Waterways Bird Survey. The numbers of members attending Tamworth Branch are steadily increasing, which is most encouraging. To conclude, we would thank you the membership for your continued support. The staff at the Birmingham Medical Institute for arranging room hire. To Alan Richards for organising the speakers and to Chris Brown, Roy Galloway, Tom Leach and Ken Webb for overseeing the project facilities. I am reminded that next year marks the 65th year of the founding of the WMBC - we sincerely hope that we can carry on from strength to strength in still meeting the needs of our growing membership. Indoor Meetings - Dirmingham January Mike Read 'The Robin" February Jeff Blincow 'The Birds of Greece" March Annual General Meeting and Slide Evening April Tom Leach "Flora & Fauna of Scandinavia" October George Stebbing-Allen "Memories of Costa Rica" November Gorden Langsbury "The Falklands" December Chris Knights "Birds of a Breckland Farm" H M MacGregor

Field Meeting Secretary's Report 1993 We ran 12 trips this year with ten by coach and two by car. They were as follows: Slimbridge Elan Valley Rutland Water Chew Valley Welney, Ouse Washes Morecambe Bay Forest of Dean Southport, Martin Mere Dinas Hill The two car trips were to Trench Wood and Kingsbury. We also ran three weekends; two to Devon and one to Norfolk. All of these outings were well attended and a good range of species, both common and rare, were seen. I would like to thank all the members for their support and look forward to seeing them all again in the future. P Pratt

Permit Secretary's Report The numbers of permits issued during 1993 were: (1992) Belvide 652 654 Blithfield 483 512 Ladywalk 422 487 Total 1557 (1653) M A Surman 16

Membership Secretary's Report The WMBC membership on Dec 31 1993 was 1855, consisting of 1094 joint members, /44 singles and 17 juniors. The membership has reduced during the year by approxi- mately 300, probably due to the current economic climate. The rate of new member- ships remains unchanged. The main task for the year has been the. computerisation of the membership records using subscriber software, which was originally developed for the RSNC, on a PC. This enables savings to be made mailing labels for bulletins etc, as well as providing membership information and exercising a better control over the payment of fees. J O Reeves

Research Committee Report The use of the statement "problem species" is not new in Natural History discussion; it did however, figure prominently in 1993. The Ruddy/White-headed Duck issue dominated many discussions as we became increasingly involved in the National/European debate, while at the same time our con- cern over the increasing demand by fisheries to obtain licences to shoot Cormorants, prompted us to investigate this bird's status in the West Midland Bird Club Region. In the autumn of this year, we embarked on a project that would monitor the Cormorant population in our area, to provide us with information that may be used to promote the welfare of this species. As it has done in the past, the Club will continue to feature in topical issues that con- cern our Region's birds. J R Winsper Chairman

Staffordshire Branch Report This has been another active year. The Committee has met five times and in addition to arranging our own meetings we have been well represented at various Club com- mittees, especially those concerned with the re-organisation of the Club and com- puterisation of records. We have continued to keep a vigilant eye on matters affecting both birds and birdwatchers throughout the county. Problems addressed included pro- posals for additional sailing at Westport Lake and jet ski-ing at Chasewater; fortunately both threats have receded. Additionally, there have been pollution threats at Chase- water and proposals for gravel extraction on Cannock Chase that could affect the bird life of these sites. At Belvide Reserve, necessary repairs to the dam and equipment led to the reservoir being drastically lowered. This changed the birdwatching, proving attractive to waders in the autumn, and allowed construction of a new island. However, rapidly rising water in December prevented construction of a proposed tern platform. Lower Gailey Reservoir was similarly drained in the spring but fortunately the heronry was not affected on this occasion. However, following rescue removal of the original fish stock, the reservoir has been restocked by and is to be pro- moted as a carp fishery. We are currently in discussions with British Waterways regard- 17

ing alleged damage from Cormorant predation and have expressed concern that their proposals to prevent this could seriously affect the heronry. We have continued to liaise with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust about sites of mutual interest in Staffordshire and the Peak Park and we have participated in the Stafford- shire Heathlands Forum. It is pleasing to note that the MAhl- proposal to establish an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) in the south-west Peak has come to fruition. If successful, this could assist our populations of moorland birds, particularly the waders of the moorland fringe. At the request of English Nature we organised a study of the breeding waders of Mid- Staffordshire, along the Rivers Trent, Sow and Penk (which is published in this report - Ed.); also surveys of two moorland fringe areas. The Club's emblem, the Ruddy Duck, has come in for a lot of attention in the past year. We have done our best to ensure that the various points of view regarding research into distribution and control measures, put to us by ordinary birdwatchers, are fully and openly discussed. Indoor meetings in Stafford have been well supported. Speakers included: Tom Leach - "Birds in Florida" David Glue - "Garden Birds" George Stebbing-Allen - "Spring in Eilat" Sian Whitehead - "Starling Behaviour" Mark Leach - 'The Complete Owl" Ian Newton gave the second Eric Longman Memorial Lecture on "The Sparrowhawk" at Keele University. Our field meetings were again targeted at a variety of species - Nightjars on Cannock Chase, Waders at Belvide and Ducks at Carsington Reservoir. Unfortunately attendance was low, except at the Nightjar evening. In conclusion, I would like to thank the committee for their support and assistance dur- ing the year and the County Bird Recorder, Gilly Jones and her team of helpers. F C Gribble . Chairman

Belvide Report Once again there was a period of more than half the year when the water level of the reservoir was very low. This had a similar effect on the bird populations to that seen in 1991 and 1992, except that there was no repetition of the record numbers of Cormorants and Goosanders seen previously. The low water level required by British Waterways to do essential repair work, provided an opportunity for us to try and create a new island close to the Bryant hide. This proved more difficult than expected and at the end of the year we were still waiting for the reservoir to fill to see how successful our efforts were. Plans were also made to construct either a raft or a platform in the South-east Bay to try and attract nesting Common Tems. Unfortunately, low water levels prevented any grazing of the North Shore because of the resulting difficulty in controlling the movement of cattle. However it did have the beneficial effect of restricting angling activity throughout much of the year. 18

It was an expensive year as far as renovation and repairs were concerned, with both the Gazebo and the Bryant hide receiving attention. One ol the bridges over the back ditch was also found in need of essential maintenance. We also incurred expenditure as a result of further complaints from a neighbouring landowner, who alleged that thistles were spreading from the reserve onto his land. This has become an annual problem and whilst we remain unconvinced that there is any justification for such complaints, we did treat some areas of thistles using a chemical spray. Thistles are of course, a valuable food source for various forms of wildlife and we have no wish to see them eliminated from the reserve. The most exciting development during the year was our agreement to purchase the Reservoir Plantation and our car park. Although we have carried out a great deal of management work in the Reservoir Plantation already, there remains much to do and it is hoped that ownership by the WMBC will see renewed interest in the improvement of this woodland over the next fpw years. It is anticipated that completion of this transaction will take place early in 1994, once the various legal formalities have been dealt with. An excellent selection of birds on the reserve during the year again included a number of local rarities. Probably the most remarkable of these was the Icterine Warbler seen on the 10th July, which provided the first ever record of this species in Staffordshire. Other highlights included a Firecrest, Mediterranean Gull, Marsh Harrier, three Ospreys, Temminck's Stint, Black-necked Grebe, Wryneck, Goshawk, Hen Harrier and Little Egret. Among the successful breeding species were Little Ringed Plover, Redshank, Gadwall and Shoveler. P K Dedicoat Harborne Nature Reserve The Reserve was opened by Birmingham's Deputy Mayor on 1 May 1993 as a joint enterprise by the City (as landowner), West Midland Bird Club and the local Allotments' Association. The Reserve is a nine acre site at Pereira Road, of which about half is used as allotments, together with the contiguous length of the Harborne Walkway on the formation of a disused railway. The land occupied by the Reserve is in four parcels, connected by paths, on either side of the Chad Brook. The preparation of the HNR involved widespread planting of trees and shrubs; clear- ance of unwanted vegetation; surfacing of pathways; the erection of fencing to enclose a bird feeding area (carrying a plaque to the memory of Maurice Bishop); the excava- tion of a pond, and the siting of nestboxes. Notice boards in an appropriate style have also been provided. Almost all the work has been done by WMBC members forming the HNR Committee - Roger Broadbent, Josie Hughes, Derek Brown, Stan Young, Gary McManus (Ranger in charge of the Edgbaston Conservation Area), and Harvey Gray (Vice Chairman of the Westfield Road/Pereira Road Allotments Association). Support from other WMBC members have been disappointing, but several local resi- dents have helped by forming a rota to monitor the feeding area daily and top up the feeders. One or two others have also given a hand when they have seen work going on. A local butcher supplies fat regularly. The financial responsibility for HNR is shouldered wholly by WMBC. The RSPB, the Allotments Association and one or two other individuals have made generous donations. The City has provided materials. 19

The HNR Committee are working to a detailed management plan which envisages mature woodland (the site is quite well timbered), with stands of coppiced trees; pollarded trees along the Chad Brook; hedgerows, some of which will be laid in the traditional fashion and others left relatively untouched; a wildflower meadow, and a thicket of "wildwood" of the sort common in the Middle Ages. Advice has been taken from the Butterfly Conservation Society, and the Committee have access to detailed (unpublished) records of the area's Lepidoptera by David Barnett, Ph.D. It is hoped to start similar studies of other groups of plants and animals encountered on the site. The birdlife, of course, is being carefully recorded and in 1993, 50 species were seen. The records of Water Rail and Firecrest (N.B. details of this record have not yet been received - Ed.) and the regular sightings of warblers, Long-tailed Tits and wood- peckers, with the presence for a while of a Bam Owl, are'noteworthy for a site only two miles from the centre of Birmingham. An RSPB member whose garden adjoins HNR reported seeing a Wryneck, though confirmation is lacking. Among mammals, rabbit footprints have been noted, though an escapee may well have been responsible. Working parlies are held most Wednesday and Sunday mornings. The Reserve is entered from Pereira Road. 1994 will see several conducted tours for special interest groups, local residents and schools, and there will also be owl and bat watches at night. Harvey Gray

The Red Grouse in Staffordshire Introduction In 1969-71, all the 1 km squares of the Peak District moorlands were surveyed for the presence (or absence) of Red Grouse (Yalden, 1972), and the counts were later manipulated to obtain a rough estimate of the total number of Red Grouse in the Peak District (Yalden, 1979). In 1990, the Nature Conservancy Council undertook a major survey of breeding birds on the moorlands of the Southern Pennines, including the Peak District (Brown and Shepherd, 1991). They reported a distribution pattern of Red Grouse in the Peak District which was essentially similar to that found 20 years earlier, but they noted two areas of possible change. On the south-eastern moors, where management of the grouse moors had certainly improved since the previous survey, there were more grouse, but on the south-western (including Staffordshire) moors there seemed fewer. This last result, however, was suspect because not all the smaller moors were visited by the NCC surveyors. This prompted me to revisit all these small fragments of peripheral moorland during the winters of 1993-94, and all the moorland 1 km squares in Staffordshire have been revisited.

Methods The principle objective of both the 1970 (i.e. 1969-71) and 1993 (i.e. 1992-94) surveys, was to record presence (or absence) of Red Grouse. Grouse were counted, the area of heather Calluna vegetation assessed, its state of management noted, and traces (feathers, droppings) of grouse noted when none were seen. All the 1993 visits were undertaken over winter (Nov-Mar), after the shooting season but before the breeding season (when grouse are much more secretive and difficult to census). Most visits 20 were also timed, so that results could be expressed both as grouse per km2 and as grouse seen per hour of (moorland) searching. Results In total, 115 Red Grouse, probably amounting to 67 pairs/territories, were recorded from 31 one-kilometre national grid squares. In addition, traces were seen in a further 3 squares, and 13 moorland/moorland fringe squares were visited without seeing grouse (Table 1). In essentially the same squares, the 1970 survey found 530 Red Grouse in 38 one- kilometre squares, traces in one more square, while only five squares were negative. Three squares, each with one pair of grouse in 1993, were missed by the 1970 survey. Thus the nominal density of Red Grouse has declined from an overall average of 12/km2 in 1970 to 2.4/km2 seen in 1993. Considering only squares where there was evidence of grouse (seen or traces), average densities were 13.6/km2 (S.D. 12.44) in 1970 but only 3.38/km2 (S.D. 2.63) in 1993, a very significant decline (t=4.71 p<0.001). On 13 timed counts on the Staffordshire Moors, I averaged 5.79 grouse/hour, com- pared with 15.42 grouse/hour in 15 counts on good moors elsewhere.

Discussion These were essentially distributional surveys, and they revealed a slight decline in apparent range (39 or 38 squares to 34 to 31 depending on whether squares with traces are included). The Red Grouse has only a modest range in Staffordshire, which has been relatively stable over at least the last 50 years. However, the counts suggest a much greater and much more serious decline, to a population only 25% of its former levels (on apparent density - only 21% on the actual counts). Because the counts in the 1970 survey were undertaken at various times of the year, this comparison may be a little pessimistic; though in fact most counts then were also winter counts (27 out of 44). However, there is other, confirmatory, evidence of the reality of these declines, which further show that they occurred primarily in the mid-1970's. On Gradbach Hill, for instance, the RSPB surveys report 16 pairs in 1974, only 3 pairs in 1985, and one pair in 1992. On what I term Five Clouds Moor, the small plateau of heather between Five Clouds and Roaches Wood, there were eight pairs in 1970 and ten pairs in 1971, with a maximum count of 50 in August 1970; currently there is only a single pair. On Back Forest Moor, seven counts from September 1970 to February 1971 averaged 23 Red Grouse, where last weekend (19 March 1994) I counted only five. There is no doubt that the population is now much smaller. The RSPB conducted surveys of breeding birds on the North in 1985 and 1992, recording 100 and 88 pairs of Red Grouse respectively. My surveys did not attempt complete censuses, so are not strictly comparable; my estimate of 67 pairs, therefore, does not certainly indicate a further decline, though it certainly does not suggest any recovery of the population. Manipulating the results of my 1970 survey, to allow for the fact that I would only have counted a proportion of the whole grouse population, I suggested a Staffordshire population then of around 982 pairs. For comparison, a similar manipulation would imply 326 pairs, that is about one third of the earlier estimate. However, these manipulations presume that on large areas of heather moorland, only a proportion, perhaps 20% of the population, would have been counted. 21

Staffordshire has now very few areas of extensive moorland and my coverage was therefore much more complete. If the direct count of 67 pairs is too low, it is never- theless likely to be very close to the real total. Table 1 Distribution of Red Grouse by one-kilometre squares on the North Staffordshire Moors, "1970" and "1993" surveys ("1970" being 1969-71, and "1993" being 1992-94).

Numbers of squares in which that many Red Grouse were seen: 0 Traces 1-4 5-9 10-19 20+ 1970 5 1 9 11 8 10 1993 13 3 22 7 2 0

References Brindley, E., Lucas, F. & Waterhouse, M. (1992). North Staffordshire Moors survey, 1992. West Midland Bird Club Annual Report 58: 27-39. Brown, A. F. & Shepherd, K. B. (1991). Breeding birds of the South Pennine Moors. J.N.C.C. Report No. 7. Waterhouse, M. (1985). North Staffordshire Moors survey. 1985 Unpubl. Rep., RSPB Droitwich. Yalden, D. W. (1972). The Red Grouse (Lagopus lagopus scoticus Lath.) in the Peak District. Naturalist 922: 89-102. Yalden, D. W. (1979). An estimate of the number of Red Grouse in the Peak District. Naturalist 104: 508. Dr. D. W. Yalden Dept. of Environmental Biology, The University, Manchester Ml3 9PL

Survey of the Breeding Waders of Lowland Wet Meadows in Central Staffordshire 1993 An attempt was made between mid-April and the end of June 1993 to survey the fields along the valleys of the Rivers Trent, Sow and Penk; and also Doley Common, , to ascertain the number of breeding Lapwing, Snipe and Redshank.

Organisation and Access For much of its length the is close to the Trent and Mersey and portions of the and River Penk are close to the Staffordshire and Worcester- shire Canal. From the canal towpaths most of the area can be observed without caus- ing undue disturbance. A BTO Common Bird Census is carried out annually at Doxey Marshes SSSI along the River Sow, while the upper reaches of the River Sow to Pershall bridge can be surveyed from nearby roads and footpaths. 22

The recording was undertaken by the following: River Trent - Stone to Great Haywood James Hallmark River Sow - Hawbones Meadow and up to assisted by Bridge } F C Gribble

River Sow - Tixall Bridge to St. Thomas' Priory F C Gribble River Sow - Doxey Marshes SSSI and upstream M Boote, M Creswell to Great Bridgeford } and colleagues River Sow - Great Bridgeford to Pershall Bridge } G Moss River Penk - Confluence with River Sow upstream to Action Mill F C Gribble

Doley Common, Gnosall F C Gribble

Methods At Pasturefields SSSI, Rawbones Meadow SSSI, Doxey Marshes SSSI and Doley Common SSSI, arrangements were made with the owners so that these areas could be surveyed by actually walking through the meadows (to ensure they were covered as accurately as possible by flushing birds) on at least three occasions during the survey period. A line transect method was used to observe birds from towpaths, footpaths and roads, stopping for a minimum of five minutes at each field. This method is accurate for Lap- wing, less so for Redshank unless they are displaying or defending young and reason- ably effective for Snipe when they are drumming or calling.

Weather During the early part of the survey many of the grass fields were very dry and devoid of pools and damp areas that Snipe and Redshank, in particular, find attractive. Two periods of torrential rain occurred, on May 26/27 and June 9/10, which caused con- siderable flooding in the river valleys. This was later and deeper than usual spring flooding and undoubtedly affected both hatching and fledging of all three species.

Results For convenience of recording, the river valleys were divided into sections that would allow comparison of the results with the previous full survey of 1982. Unfortunately, G. Moss made five visits but found no waders along the Sow valley between Great Bridgeford and Pershall Bridge, recording only one Curlew flying over the area! Both Lapwing and Snipe were recorded near Pershall in 1992. 23

Summary of Results: (NC = No Count)

Lapwing Snipe Redshank (pairs) (drummers) (pairs) B2 93 82 93 82 93 River Trent Filleybrook to Aston 0 0 0 0 0 0 Aston - Burston 9 0 0 0 1 Burston - Sandon 14+ 8 0 0 2 J\ 11 Sandon - Weston 0 0 0 0 0 0 Weston - Ingeslre Bridge NC 0 NC 1 NC 0 Ingestre Bridge - Pasturefields 10 5 1 1 2 1 Pasturefields SSSI 1 0 0 2 1 0 Paslurefields - Gt. Haywood 2 1 0 0 1 0

River Sow Tixall Wide/Rawbones SSSI 25 6 2 6+ 3 2 111 North of Tixall Wide NC 2 0 0 - ^ NC Tixall Bridge - St. Thomas' Priory 8 2 2 0 1 2 0 Baswich Meadows SSSI. 3 2 1 2 -11[ 2 Doxey SSSI 5 10 6 9 2+ 1 M6 J.14 - Great Bridgeford NC 5 NC 0 0 0 Great Bridgeford - Pershall Bridge 5+ 0 1 0 0 0

River Penh St. Thomao' Priory - nadlord Br. 1 0 1 0 0 0 Radlord Bridge - Acton Mill Br. 6 9- 1 1 1 1 Acton Bridge - M6 area NC 4" 0 0 0 0

Ooley Common, Gnosall NC 2 NC 2+ NC 1 bird Totals 89+ 56 15 24+ 15+ 8+

* Two pairs near Roseford nested late, alter the (irst week ot May on scuttled set-aside; these may have been repeal nests of birds disturbed in ** where three pairs (ailed in a potato field.

Discussion Lapwing, although they used the wet meadows for feeding and nesting, were equally happy with barer, cultivated ground for nesting. More spring barley was sown this year and the crop was low enough to attract Lapwing. Potatoes are also favoured, though early nests are often disturbed by late cultivation. Maize grown for silage, field beans, sugar beet and carrots were also used. Two fields of set-aside land near Roseford (Radford - Acton mill) were used late in the season. Some 24 observed nesting attempts were made on cultivated land as follows: Potatoes 6 (three nests known to be successful) Beans 5 Sugar Beet 1 (a late nest may have replaced one lost in potatoes) Carrots 1 Spring Barley 3 Bare Ground 3 Maize 3 Gut-aside 2 (late nests may have replaced those in potatoes) 24

Lapwing that used the bean field at Radford were observed flying to and from the meadows to feed, especially off-duty birds while their mates were sitting. This bean field was free of disturbance, whereas the meadows near Rickerscote are used nowa- days for horse grazing and dog walking and may be too disturbed for nesting waders. This particular field has had autumn sown corn previously and this was loo high in spring for Lapwings. Comparing figures for 1982 and 1993, it can be seen that there has been a decline from over 89 pairs (with five areas uncounted) down to 56 pairs. This is due to the absence of birds in the Pershall/Great Bridgeford area in 1993, a marked reduction in the Rawbones Meadows area, Pasturefields/lngestre and Aston/Sandon areas. This may be due to high densities of cattle and shorter grass pastures than formerly. This has been the apparent cause at Deepmore (Radford-Action mill), where up to 240 milking cows now keep the grass short and the density of animals on the ground has an obvious trampling effect on eggs and/or young.

Snipe and Redshank, were only recorded on grassland. The high number of Snipe (24) in 1993 as against 1982 (15), may be due to differences in surveying. It is unlikely that the fields were walked out as thoroughly in the earlier survey. The decline in Red- shank (15 pairs in 1982 down to eight in 1993) may be due to factors away from the nesting areas. In February 1991, large numbers of Redshank were killed on the Wash and these may have included some of our local birds. Improved drainage has also seen the loss of small wet areas in many of the meadows that were favoured. Both nuptial and distrac- tion display by Redshank were at a low level this year indicating a lower population and/or loss of chicks/eggs. Though the only proved successful breeding of Redshank was the bird with a juvenile just north of Pasturefields SSSI, distraction display in Rawbones meadow, Baswich Meadows and a second-hand report between Aston and Sandon (where they have bred previously) suggests at least four pairs hatched young. Some young may have been lost in the May/June floods. It was also noted that birds were scarce at Belvide and Blithfield Reservoirs in autumn which may reflect a poor nesting season. We were surprised that no Snipe were recorded between Aston and Sandon where some of the rushy fields appear to be suitable. Possibly we should have surveyed them into June. They may have been too dry early on, yet suitable after the heavy rains, with the birds displaying briefly and later in the season than anticipated. At Ooley Common, the vegetation is now badly undergrazed and the small waders have little suitable habitat on the SSSI. However, the rushy field to the south-west of the Common is still attractive to Lapwing, while Snipe were recorded drumming over this field as well as the Common. A Redshank was recorded on one occasion only, flying from the ditch to the north-east but it did not return. If the grazing can be improved to give a shorter sward over the southern part of the Common, the area should still be attractive to all three species as well as Curlew, which were present on each occasion, probably nesting on or near the Common. 25

At Doxey Marshes, a pair of Little Ringed Plover attempted to nest on the scrape but their eggs were predated. The Redshanks were unsuccessful and some of the area was undergrazed and too vegetated for waders to nest. It is hoped grazing can be improved in future, especially to suit Snipe and Redshank. Another factor that may be affecting the wader nesting success is the rise in the number of corvids, especially in the Sow and Penk Valleys close to Stafford. Up to 40 Carrion Crows and 20 Magpies haunt the Radford/Rickerscofe Meadows and there is a roost of Carrion Crows and Jackdaws numbering 2/300 birds in the poplar plantation south-west of Baswich Meadows. These birds may be taking sufficient wader eggs and/or chicks to depress breeding success and hence future recruitment to the local population. Clearly the SSSI's at Pasturefields, Rawbones Meadows, Baswich Meadows and Doxey are very important core areas on which Snipe and Redshank in particular, depend for feeding, especially in dry periods, even if some of the birds nest in peri- pheral areas.

Future Work Now that the important fields have been identified, it is recommended that members of the West Midland Bird Club try to continue to monitor the wader populations in the three river valleys. If the provision of more scrapes at Rawbones Meadow proves successful in enhancing that area for waders, then similar treatment at other places in the river valleys could be considered.

Acknowledgements We especially thank Mr A Collier and Mr N S G Bostock for permission to visit Raw- bones Meadow; Major J R Haszard for permission to visit Doley Common and Mrs D W Burgess and Mrs D M Wiggin for permission to visit land near Doxey Marshes. F C Gribble Survey Organiser 26

This map shows every known locality for which a record was submitted during 1993. 27

1993 Bird Record Localities The following alphabetical list for each county gives the grid reference (if known), of all localities mentioned in the Classified Notes. Please also refer to the accompanying map.

Warwickshire Alcester SP0857 Coleshill Hall SP1889 Kingsbury SP2096 Alcester Heath SP0659 Colliery Wood SP3387 Kinwalsey SP2585 Alcester Park Woods SP0560 Combrook SP3051 Knightcote SP4055 Alvecote SK2504 Compton Verney SP3152 Ansley Hall SP3093 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Ladywalk SP2191 Ansty SP3983 Copston Magna SP4588 Lawford Heath SP4676 Arbury Hall SP3389 Corley SP3085 Lea Marston SP2093 Arden's Grafton SP1154 Colon SP2194 Leamington Spa SP3165 Arley SP2890 Coughton Park SP0660 Lighthorne Quarry SP3456 Asplands Husk Coppice SP0559 Curdworth SP1892 Lighthorne Rough SP3355 Astley Pool SP3189 Lillington SP3267 Atherstone Goll Course SP3096 Dosthill Pit SP209B Long Itchington SP4165 Attleborough SP3790 Draycote Meadows SP4470 Lower Radbourne SP4457 Austrey SK2906 Draycote Water SP4669 Lye Green SP1965 Avon Dassett SP4149 Dunchurch SP4871 Maiicliff SP0950 Bacon's End SP188B Earlswood SP1174 Marston SP2094 Baddesley Common SP2797 Easenhall SP4679 Marton SP4068 Baginton Airport CP3574 Cxhall Gn3405 Maxstoke 3P2380 Barford SP2760 Middleton SP1898 Bascole SP3864 Farnborough SP4349 Bedworth SP3586 Fenny Compton SP4151 Napton Reservoir SP4759 Bedworth Hill Pool SP3685 Fillongley SP2887 Newbold Comyn SP3365 Bedworth Woodlands SP3487 Flecknoe SP5163 New Waters SP2863 Bentley Woods' SP2895 Freasley SP2499 Nightingale's Farm SP2694 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Frog Hall SP4173 Nuneaton SP3691 Bodymoor Heath SP2095 Botts Green SP2792 Gaydon SP3654 Oakley Wood SP3059 Bowshot! Wood SP3053 Grandborough SP4965 Oflchurch SP3666 Brailes SP3337 Great Alne SP1259 Old Nun Wood SP3870 Bramcote Mains SP4188 Griff SP3689 Over Green SP1694 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Oversley Wood SP1056 Broadwell SP4565 Hams Hall SP2092 Over Whitacre SP2591 Brook End Farm SP2594 Harbury SP3760 Oxhill SP3146 Bubbenhall SP3672 Hartshill Hayes SP3294 Bulkington SP3987 Hartshill Sewage Farm SP3395 Packington SP2384 Butler's End SP2484 Haseley Manor SP2367 Packwood SP1772 Butlers Marston SP3150 Hawkesbury SP3684 Pleasance Farm SP2672 Heach Wood SP2488 Polesworth SK2602 Chadshunt SP3553 Henley-in-Arden SP1566 Poolfields SP3253 Charlecote SP2656 Hurley SP2495 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Chase Lane SP2773 Priors Marston SP4957 Chase Wood SP2572 Idlicote SP2844 Clieslerton SP3558 llmington SP2043 Radway SP3649 Church Lawford SP4476 Ragley Hall SP0755 Chuicli Pool Covert SP2092 Jubilee Pools SP3873 Red Hill SP13S8 Close Wood SP2584 Judkins quarry SP3493 Ridge Lane SP2994 Cloudesley Bush SP4686 Rough Hill Wood SP0564 Clowes Wood SP0973 Kenilworth SP2971 Round Hill Wood SP2952 Coldcomlorl Wood SP0658 (BAD) Kineton SP3651 Rouswood Farm SP1457 Coleshill SP2089 Kineton SP3351 Rugby SP5175 28

Ryton-on-Dunsmore SP3874 Sych Wood SP2092 Water Orton SP1891 Rylon Pool SP3772 Weddington • SP3692 Ryton Wood SP3872 Tanworth-in-Arden SP1170 Wellesbourne SP2755 Temple Pool SP3744 Welluibuui iiu AiilielU 3T2Gj4 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Thornhill Wood SP0556 Wellesbourne Wood SP2753 Shawbury Wood SP2588 Three Oak Hill Wood SP0658 Whatcote SP3043 Shipston-on-Stour SP2540 Thurlaston SP4671 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Shustoke Reservoir SP2291 Tysoe SP3444 Whitestone SP3889 Snitterfield SP2160 Wiggins Hill SP1793 Snittertield Bushes SP2060 Ufton Fields SP3861 Windmill Hill SP3493 Snowlord SP3865 Ufton Wood SP3862 Wishaw SP1794 Somers, The SP2282 Umberslade SP1371 Withybrook SP4384 Southam SP4162 Upper Shuckborough SP4961 Withycoombe Wood SP1457 Spemall SP0862 Wolston SP4175 Spemall Park SP1062 Walsgrave Hill SP3980 Wood End SP2398 Stockton SP4365 Walton SP2852 Wormleighton Reservoir SP4451 Stoneleigh SP3372 Wappenbury Wood SP3770 Wroxall SP2270 Stoneton SP4654 Warton SK2803 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Warwick SP2864 Yamingale Common SP1966 Stretton-on-Dunsmore SP4172 Wasperlon SP2658

Worcestershire Abberley Hills S07566 British Camp Reservoir S07639 Doverdale S08566 Abberton S09953 Broadway SP0937 Dowles Brook S07776 Alvechurch SP0272 Bromsgrove S09570 Drayton S09075 Arley Wood S08082 Broome S09078 Droitwich S08963 Arrow Valley Lake SP0567 Broome Pool S09078 S09160 Ashmoor Common S08446 S09254 Asplands Husk Eckington S09241 Coppice SP0558 Callow Hill S07473 SP0343 Astley Burf S08167 Castlemorton S07937 Aston Mill Pil S09435 Castlemorlon Common S07839 Feckenham Wylde Chase End Hill S07635 Moor SP0061 Ball Mill _ Chateau Impney S09064 Frankley S09980 Barnard's Green S07845 SP0251 Furnace Mill S07276 Barnettbrook S08876 Churchill Wood S09155 Barnett Hill S08877 Claines S08558 S09542 Bayton S06973 Claines Pool S08458 Great Witley S07565 Beckford S09735 Cliflon-upon-Teme S07161 Grimley S08360 Berrow S07934 Cobbler's Coppice S09269 Guarlford S08145 S09144 Coldridge Wood S08082 Gullet Quarry S07638 Bewdley S07875 S09636 Gullet, The S07638 Birchley Farm Poplars SP0465 Cookley S08480 S09342 Cooksey S09069 Hadley S08663 S09851 Cowsden S09453 Hadley Poplars S06564 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0050 Cropthorne Heath S09944 Hagley S09180 Bittell SP0174 S08368 Hallow S08258 Blackpole S08657 Crowle S09256 Hampton SP0243 Blackwell S09872 Crutch Hill Hanbury Park S09464 Blakedown S08878 Hanley Castle S08442 Bow Wood S09455 Deerfold Wood S09047 Hanley Child S06565 Brazier's Coppice S06464 S09143 Hanley William S06765 Bredon S09136 Delamere Happy Valley S07645 Bredon Hill S09139 Diglis S08453 S08470 Bredon's Hardwick S09135 Dingle, The S07645 (Evesham) SP0549 British Camp S07640 Dodlord S09373 29

Harvington Mamble S06971 Shortwood Roughs S00170 (Kidderminster) S08774 S06B60 Shrawley S08064 Harvington Pool SP0448 Midsummer Hill S07637 Shrawley Woods S08066 Wood S08460 Mill Pond S07737 SP0746 Hewell Grange SP0069 Monkwood S08060 Spetchley Park S08953 Hewell Park Lake SP0169 Murcol Stanford Court S07065 High Green S08745 Stanford-on-Teme S07065 S08758 Nafford S09441 Stoke Bliss S06562 Hollybed Common S07737 Nash Elm Wood Storridge S07448 Hollybush Hill S07636 Newnham Bridge S06469 Stourport S08171 Holt S08262 New Pool S07843 Stourport Marina S08169 Holt Fleet S08263 North Hill S07646 S09039 Holy Cross S09278 Nunnery Wood S08754 Strensham Sludge Holywell SO7740 Lagoons S09139 Hornhill Wood S09558 Oakenshaw SP0464 Suckley S07251 S09457 Oakley S08960 Suckley Knowl S07153 Hunthouse Wood S07070 Ockeridge S07862 Sugar Loaf S07645 Hurcott Pool S08577 S09159 Oldfield S08464 Tedstone _ SP0157 Old Hills S08246 Teme Valley S066/76 Ipsley Alders SP0767 Old Storridge Common S07451 Temple Dingle S07064 Ipsley Mill Pond SP0767 Orleton S06966 Thorngrove S08260 Island Coppice S06364 S09537 Throckmorton S09849 Throckmorton Tip S09748 S09436 S09350 Tibberton S09057 Kempsey S08549 S09045 Timberhonger S09170 Kempsey Common S08748 Pirton SOS747 Trench Wood S09258 Kempsey Lower Ham S08448 Powick S08351 Trimpley Reservoir S07678 Kempsey Pool S08447 Powick Bridge S08352 Kempsey Upper Ham S08449 Powick Hams SOB352 Uffmoor Wood S09581 Kings Green S07760 Prickley Green S07661 S09454 Kinsham S09335 Puckrup S08736 Upton-upon-Severn S08540 Kinsham Gravel Pit S09336 Pugh's Rough Upton Warren S09367 Knapp, The S07451 Purshall Green S09071 Knightwick S07355 S09047 Knowles Coppice S07676 Queenhill S08536 Walton Hill S09479 Knowles Mill S07676 Warndon S08856 Kyre Pool S06364 Raggedslone Hill S07536 Wells Common S07744 Rea Valley S06773 West Hagley S09080 Larford SOS 169 Redditch SP0467 Westmancote S09337 Laughern Brook S07661 Retreat Farm, Grimley SOB3S9 Westminster Farm S09980 Lickey Hills S09975 Ribbeslord S07872 Westwood S08763 S09643 Ripple S0B738 Weyman's Wood S07262 Little Witley S07863 Romer's Wood S06063 White End - Littleworth S08850 Rous Lench S00153 Wilden S08272 Longdon Marsh S08236 Ryall S08640 Wissett's Wood S06772 Long Marston Depot SP1547 Ryall GP S08639 Woodbury Hill S07464 Lower Moor S09847 Wood Norton SP0147 Lynall's Coppice S07375 Saxon's Lode S08638 Worcester S08454 Severn Stoke S08544 Worcestershire Beacon S07645 Madeley Heath S09577 Shakenhurst Brook S06772 Wychbury Hill S09281 Malvern S07745 Shatterford S07981 Wyche Cutting S07744 Malvern Common S07846 Shaver's End S07668 Wyre Forest S07475 Malvern Hills S07745 Shelsley Walsh S07263 Malvern Link S07847 Shenstone S08673 Yeald Wood SP0152 30

Staffordshire Abbots Bromley SK0824 Coombes Valley SK0052 Edge SK0450 Abraham Heights RKnn?n CnpmerR SJ8029 Acton Trussell SJ9318 Coven SJ9006 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Alrewas SK1715 Crossplains SK1624 Keele University SJ8244 Anslow SK2125 Croxall SK1914 Kettlebrook Park SK2103 Anson's Bank SJ9816 Cuckoo Bank SK0310 SJ9816 Aqualate SJ7720 Curborough SK1212 Kings Bromley SK1216 Armitage SK0715 Kingswood SJ9908 Ashwood SO8688 Danebridge SJ9665 Knotbury SK0168 Astonfield SJ9225 Deephaye Country Park SJ9653 Knypersley SJ8955 Axe Edge SK0370 Doley Common SJ8221 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Lady Edge SK0562 Back Forest SJ9865 Drayton Bassett SK1900 Leek Brook Industrial Baldstones SK0164 Drystone Edge SK0268 Estate - Bartaston Downs SJ9036 Lichlield SK1110 Barton Gravel Pits SK2017 Eaton Bridge - Lichfield College SK1110 Baswich SJ9422 SJ8329 Little Aston SK0900 Bath pool SJ8354 Eland Brook SK1426 SK0021 Bearda Hill - Elford SK1810 Longnor SK0864 Beaudesert SK0313 Ellington Grange - Wood SJ9655 Belvide SJ8610 Enville S08286 Longton SJ9143 Bemmersley Tip SJ8854 S08696 Berryhill SJ8946 Fauld SK1828 Betley Mere SJ7548 Fauld Industrial Estate - Manifold Valley SK0954 Bishton SK0220 SK1902 Manor Park Gravel Pit - Blithlield SK0623 Fisherwick SK1709 Marchington SK0954 Blurton SK9042 Five Clouds SK0062 Meaford Power Station SJ8835 Boarsgrove SK0462 Flash SK0267 Merril Grove Farm SK0464 Borrowpit SK2003 Ford Green SJ8950 Mill Green _ Bradwell Wood SJ8450 Foxt SK0348 Mill Meece SJ8333 Brancote SJ9622 Fradley SK1513 Morridge SK0256 Branston Water Park SK2120 Fradley Airfield SKI4I3 Mottley Meadows SJ8313 Brindley Heath SK9914 Froghall SK0247 Mow Cop SJ8557 Brocton SJ9619 Mucklestone SJ7237 Brocton Coppice SJ9819 Gailey SJ9310 brodicote - German Cemetary SJ9815 Newborough SK1325 Burntwood SK0509 Gib Tor SK0264 Newcastle SJ8445 Burton on Trent SK2423 Gnosall SJ8220 Newchurch SK1423 Byrkley Park SK1623 Goldsitch Moss SK0165 Norton Bridge SJ8630 Great Haywood SK0022 Calf Heath Reservoir SK9309 Greenway Bank Okeover SK1548 Camp Hill SJ7740 Country Park SJ8855 Oldacre Valley SJ9718 Cannock Chase SK0017 Grindon SK0854 Orchard Common SK0269 Cannock Tip SJ9909 Gun Hill SJ9661 Otherton SJ9212 Catholme SK2016 Overlay - Chartley Moss SK0130 SK1019 Chasewater SK0307 Hanbury SK1727 Park Hall Country Park SJ9345 Cheadle SK0143 Handsacre SK0916 Pendleford Mill NR SJ8904 Chillington SJ8606 Harlaston SK2110 Punch Bowl SJ9820 Chillington Hawksmoor Wood SK0344 Rakes Dale - Lower Avenue SJ8807 Haywood Warren SK9919 Ridgehill Wood - Chillington Pool SJ8606 Hazelstrine - Roach End SJ9964 Clay Mills SK2625 Highgate Common S08389 Roaches SK0063 SK2510 Hill Ridware SK0817 Rocester SK1139 SJ8603 SOB891 Rolleston-on-Dove SK2427 Codsall Woods SJ8603 Hixon SK0025 Royal Cottage SK0263 Colton Marsh - Hockley SK2200 Rudyard SJ9459 Wood SJ9848 Hollybush SK1326 Rushton Spencer SJ9362 31

Seven Springs SK0020 Swallow Moss SK0660 Weeford SK1403 Sheepwalks S08185 Weston Coyney SJ9343 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 Talke SJ8253 Weston Jones SJ7624 Shugborough SJ9922 Tamworth SK2003 Westport SJ8550 Silverdale SJ8146 Thomclifte SK0259 Wheaton Aston SJ8512 Gloopy Wood Thorpe Constantino SK2609 Whitcmoor Hoy SK1813 Smestow S08591 Three Shire Head SK0068 Whittingham Hurst Stafford SJ9223 Tillington Cemetary Whittington Sewage Stafford Castle SJ9022 Tittesworth SJ9959 Farm S08582 Stansley Wood SK0524 Tixall Wide SJ9722 S08792 Stepping Stones - Tixall Park SJ9723 SK2201 Stoke on Trent SJ8745 Trentham Gardens SJ8640 Woodmill SK1321 Stone SJ0034 Trescott S08197 Wychnor Junction Slone House Hotel - Trysull S08594 Stoneydelph SK2302 Yoxall SK1419 Stourton S08685 Walton on Trent SK2118 Stretton SJ8811 Warwickshire Moor SK2104

West Midlands SK0500 Fens Pools S09188 Monkspath SP1474 Balsail Common SP2476 Finchley Park SP0894 Barr Common SP0699 Fishley SK0003 Netherton Hill S09388 SP0081 Foleshill Gasworks SP3582 Netherton Reservoir S09388 Bayley's Mill - Four Oaks SP1198 Norton S08982 Berksweli Hall SP2479 Fowlers Park SJ9I00 Bickenhill SP1882 Oak Farm S08990 S09496 Great Barr SP0495 Oldbury S09869 Binley SP3777 Goscole Valley SK0102 Old Airfield SP0499 Birmingham City SP1381 Hampion-in-Arden SP2080 Centre SP0686 Over Green SP1694 Handsworth Wood SP0590 Bluebell Park S09391 Hawkesbury Locks SP3684 Boultbee's Wood SP2584 Park Hall Pool SK0397 Hayhead Wood SP0498 Bradnock' Marsh SP2179 Parkes Hall Pool S09392 Henley Green SP3681 S09287 Park Lime Pits SP0299 Hillfield Park SP1578 Bromwich Wood S09981 Pedmore S09182 Hill Wood Common SK1200 SP0991 Pelsall North Common SK0103 Hobs Moat SP1482 Penn S08996 SK0505 Hockley SP0588 Park SP0692 Brownshill Green SP3082 SP1572 Perry Hall Park Hydes Road Pool S09994 Cheswick Green SP1275 Plants Brook Reservoir SP1492 Pype Hayes Clayhanger SK0404 Keresley SP31B4 Golf Course SP1392 Compton S08898 Kingstanding SP0794 Cornets End SP2381 Kingswinlord Park Queslett Nature Park SP0694 Cotwall End S09192 Knowle SP1876 Coventry City Centre SP3379 S09485 Lady Pool SK0200 Ray Hall Sewage Farm SP0294 Leasowes Park S09783 Rough Hill S09688 Dorridge SP167S Longtord SP35B3 Rushall SP0299 Dorridge Park SP1675 Longford Nature Park SP3483 Druid's Heath SK0601 Lower Gornal S09090 St Margaret's Lakes SP0594 . S09390 Saltwells Wood S09387 Dunstail Park SJ9000 Marston Green SP1781 Sandwell Valley SP0291 Mary Stevens Park SOB9B3 Sheepwash UP S09791 Edgbaston SP0584 Meigh's Wood SP2684 Sheldon SP1584 Edgbaston Park SP0584 Meriden SP23B1 Solihull SP1579 SP0486 Milking Bank Pool S09290 Solihull Lodge SP0978 Erdington SP1191 Minworth Sewage Farm SP1592 Stechford SP1387 32

Stivichall Common SP3276 Wall Heath S08889 SP0892 Stoke Floods SP3778 Walsall SP0198 Wollaston S08884 eooooo Walsall Arborotum SP0108 Wolvorhampton S00108 Stubber's Green SK0401 Walsgrave SP3881 Wood End Farm SP0498 Sutton Coldfield SP1296 Warrens Hall S09588 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Sutton Park SP0997 Wergs SJ8700 Woodshires Green SP3484 Swanswell Park SP1281 SP0091 Wrens Nest S09391 West Park SO9099 Wyken Slough SP3683 Tidbury Green SP1075 Wiggins Hill SP1693 Wylde Green SP1294 SP0198 S09698 Windmill Hill S09484 Valley Park SJ8900 Wishaw SP1695

Green Woodpecker (John Teasdale) 33

Classified Notes The sequence of species followed is that advocated by Birdihg World (Complete List of the Birds of the Western Palearctic 1991). The English names are those in popular use at the time of writing. Records of distinctive subspecies are listed seperately immedi- ately after the commonly occurring race, their commonly used English names appear- ing in italics. All records of species on the official British and Irish List (i.e. in Categories A-C) appear in the main section, even if they are suspected of being of captive origin. All other records (including Category D species) appear under Exotica; these mainly refer to escapes from avicultural collections. Records of National rarities are only published if they have been accepted by the BBRC. The only exceptions to this will be in the case of well-documented records which are still being assessed due to late submissions. The average arrival and departure dates given for migrants are based on first and last dates (excluding freaks) shown in the Annual Reports up to 1993. Figures in brackets denote the number of years on which the averages are based. A list of contributors to these notes (and the ringing report) appears at the back of this Report.

The following abbreviations have been used: CBC = Common Bird Census R. = River CP = Country Park Res. = Reservoir GC = Golf Course SF = Sewage Farm GP = Gravel Pit(s) STW = Sewage Treatment Works NP = Nature Park UP = Urban Park NR = Nature Reserve WP = Water Park

Red-throated Diver Gavia steilata If a quite exceptional flock of 18 at Belvide in 1988 is disregarded, the figures show a continuing rise in records. This increase probably reflects a slight improvement in both breeding and wintering numbers in Britain.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 4 6 10 30 19 Warks Another good year with three or four birds. It pays to visit Draycote before the boats come out for this and similar species. All records relate to that reser- voir: a first-winter on October 31 JJB\ one on November 19 RCM and in flight only on 20 AC, PDH; one on December 15 RCM. Staffs An adult in breeding plumage at Chasewater from May 10 to 11 GE. Further adults at Blithfield in partial summer plumage on October 13 DP and in full winter plumage from November 27 to 28 AL, WJL et at.

Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica The rarest of the three divers which visit the Region, with no reports since 34

1989. Records follow a remarkably cyclic pattern, with peaks in 1954-58 and 1979-83, partly connected to the frequency of cold winters.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 2 5 16 6 2

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer A remarkable surge in the five-yearly totals.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 1 12 12 5 18 Warks Draycote has a notable monopoly on this species. In the last ten years only 1988 drew a blank. The first-winter from 1992 remained until March 6 RCM. Later in the year, a first-winter visited briefly on November 27 RCM and a second-winter took up residence from December 2 into the New Year JJB et al.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Warks Definite or probable breeding pairs at: Alvecote, Brandon (two), Coombe, Dosthill (three), Jubilee Pools (three), Ladywalk, Napton Res. (two), Ufton Fields and Whitacre Heath. Post-breeding flocks were again bigger than in recent times with 47 at Dosthill on August 30 and 28 at Coton on November 5 being the most notable. Worcs Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S o N D

Lartord — 6 3 — 10 Pirton — — — 2 — — 9 4 1 — 4 2 Upton Warren 0 1 4 3 1 2 9 10 1 — — — Westwood 1 1 2 3 0 1 1 6 11 12 3 2 Pairs bred at: Ashmoor Common, Bishampton Vale Pool (four), Grimley, Pur- shall Green, Upton Warren (two) and Wilden. Maxima elsewhere included 16 at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 28 and seven at Lower Moor on March 28. Also recorded at nine other sites. Staffs Very under-recorded. Successful breeding only noted at Doxey (a pair in CBC), Fradley, Kingswood, Tittesworth and Woodmill (three broods, only one survived). A pair attempted to breed at Belvide but were unsuccessful. The only significant count was 37 at Elford on September 19. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from Berkswell Hall (four), Comets End (three), Fens Pools, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (two), Stubber's Green and Wyken Slough. Birds also present in the breeding season on the R. Blythe at , along the at Netherton Hill, Netherton Res. and Brownhills Nature Trail. Reported from a further nine sites outside this period, with maxima of ten along the Staffs and Worcs Canal in Valley Park in November, 16 at Cornets End in August, five on Perry Barr Park Pool in October and five on Netherton Res. in November. 35

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus A notable concentration at Draycote late in the year. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Dosthill/Kingsbury 41 33 66 61 104 50 — 83 68 — 22 22 Draycote 140 120 122 95 63 52 99 124 120 145 309 300

Bittell 6 9 14 13 11 12 14 24 8 9 11 Bredon's Hardwick — — 15 6 12 — — 2 — 8 7 5 Larford 12 6 10 8 4 3 — — 3 3 7 10 Upton Warren 5 12 12 12 10 10 9 7 5 8 8 4 Westwood 1 4 8 7 6 4 9 15 24 17 7 4

Aqualate 10 4 18 — 20 42 42 52 32 — Belvide 10 3 6 11 24 — 7 11 — 23 35 41 Blithfield 19 46 87 — 44 — 143 115 101 153 98 47 Chasewater 11 16 17 7 10 — 7 17 10 10 25 29 Westport 6 5 5 2 2 4 4 4 8 9 12 Warks There was a very impressive breeding colony at Dosthill, with 28 pairs along a fifty metre stretch of fringing rush marsh. Other pairs bred at: Alvecote (three), Bedworth Hill Pool, Brandon (three), Chesterton (six), Compton Verney, Coombe (ten), Jubilee Pools (three), Kingsbury (five), Ladywalk, Napton Res. (two), Packington, Ragley Hall, Ryton Pool, The Somers and Wormleighton Res. (two). Worcs Pairs bred at: Bittell (two), Bredon's Hardwick, Hadley, Ipsley, Lower Moor (two), Upton Warren (four) and Westwood (two). Four were at Kyre Pool on April 12. Also recorded at Harvington Pool, New Pool, Pirton, Trimpley Res., Upton-upon-Severn and Wilden. Staffs Successful breeding pairs at: Aqualate, Bathpool Park (Kidsgrove), Betley Mere, Chillington Pool, Croxall, Doxey (four in CBC), Himley Park (two), Hollybush, Knypersley Pool (four), Rudyard and Tixall Wide. W Mid Breeding or summering pairs at: Bradnock's Marsh, Brookvale Park, Cornets End, Edgbaston Res., Fens Pools (four), Sandwell Valley (at least five), Stubber's Green, Sutton Park, Walsall Arboretum, Witton Lakes and Wyken Slough. Peak counts included 19 at Edgbaston Res. in January, 15 in Sutton Park in March and 19 at Bradnock's Marsh in July.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena A slight decline in numbers during the last five years, with no marked influxes. Seven birds this year was the best total since 1987. The increase in summer records may one day result in a nesting attempt, several of which have been made in recent years in eastern and northern .

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 6 5 30 30 19 Warks Birds in breeding plumage now seem to be a regular thing, unless we are seeing one or two re-occurring individuals. One in summer plumage remained at Dosthill from April 24 to May 14 ICW, MY et al. Another in partial 36

summer plumage at Draycote on April 3 RCM. Further birds in autumn and winter made this the best year since the hard weather influx of 1979. Singles were at Dosthill from September 30 PC to October 3 JAA and December 26 PPN. Another was at Draycote on December 16 JJB. Staffs One at Chasewater from December 26 to 31 ICW per GE et al. W Mid A bird in summer plumage in Sandwell Valley on April. 29 PAH et al. was the first record for the locality.

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Occurrences seem to have levelled out, the 1984-88 total having been boosted by an influx of 12 in 1987.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 21 14 13 23 15 Warks The 1992 bird at Draycote remained until February 1 JW. A bird at Dosthill on February 25 MY, may have moved to Earlswood where one was seen on March 5 per SMW and 6 GIG. Worcs One at Westwood from March 10 to 17 TH, SMW. Staffs One at Blithfield from November 2 to 10 ESC, AL.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Totals continue to rise from the low point in the mid-1970's; with a peak of 19 in 1992. This is the result of a slow increase and expansion of the British breeding population (particularly in England) in recent years, with up to 60 possible pairs recorded in 1992. These birds are presumably an overspill from the colonies in the Low Countries, where numbers have steadily risen since about 1980. Breeding was attempted in Warwickshire in 1984 and a nest was built in this county in 1992.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 34 11 22 43 54 Warks Only two spring records is disappointing and continues the topsy-turvy run established since 1990. Hopes for a second breeding record must centre on Dosthill, where one was present on April 30 PC and Brandon, with one on May 11 per FGS. A juvenile remained at Dosthill from August 30 ICW, MY et al. to October 2 JAA and singles were at Draycote on August 7 MDB and 27 to 28 MDB, RCM. Worcs A winter plumaged adult at Upton Warren on August 29 AFJ, GHP. Two juveniles were at Westwood from September 18 to 20, one remaining to 21 TMH, SMW. Another juvenile appeared here on September 29 AFJ, SMW, followed by a fourth on October 8 and 9 TMH, SMW. Staffs Singles were seen at Barton GP on April 17 AB, ESC, Belvide on August 8 JKH, SN and Blithfield on September 5 AL, ESC et al. W Mid A bird in winter plumage at Sheepwash UP on August 28 TE, DW, AGW. 37

1991 Addendum Warks A juvenile at Draycote on September 22 JJB. 1992 Addenda W Mid An adult in summer plumage on Swan Pool, Sandwell Valley on April 18 per TCH, with a winter plumaged bird at the same locality on September 6 per TCH.

Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis Staffs Singles reported from Chasewater on April 28 ICW, SMW, flying north^at Tlttesworth on May 23 JO, PAW and over Newcastle on June 19 AL.

Gannet Sula bassana A remarkably consistant picture, with an average of one a year.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 5 5 5 6 5 Staffs A sub-adult was found freshly dead below the dam at Blithfield on June 23 esc.

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Munllily maxima al main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N O

Coombe too 180 — 70 3 1 4 29 70 120 200 Draycole 172 180 188 82 3 3 a 14 44 85 216 240 Kingsbury area 42 30 46 70 15 10 20 24 44 63 64 96

Ladywalk 25 32 22 — — — — 15 20 14 26 5

Bittell 1 1 1 — — — _ 1 — 1 1 — Bredon's Hardwick 12 2 15 10 1 — — 8 — 8 7 17 Lower Moor 1 1 1 — 3 1 4 Pirlori 1 1 3 11 Strensham 1 1 3 Upton Warren 12 8 11 21 3 2 1 5 5 4 4 5 Westwood 49 50 50 42 6 3 1 4 7 23 35 58

Aqualate 51 17 60 18 1 1 2 9 13 19 27 Belvide 4 10 20 9 2 1 1 19 27 30 15 15 Blithfield 22 22 79 — 5 — 11 42 107 93 86 52 Chasewater 21 — — 3 — — — — 1 11' 62 Chillington Pool 4 4 22 7 3 3 3 7 5 37 35 65 Warks Now widespread. The continuing popularity of Draycote is noteworthy. A new site record was reached here in December and with Coombe providing a convenient roost site we should also expect a breeding record shortly. Fifteen colour-ringed birds were noted at Draycote; three of them were from Abber- ton Res. (Essex) and three from St. Margaret's Island, Tenby (Dyfed). One shot at Packington on September 18 was ringed as a nestling at the latter colony on June 17. Worcs Four were at Trimpley Res. on April 3, while up to four were also noted along the R. Avon between Chadbury and Strensham. Elsewhere, smaller numbers 38

at Grimley, Larford, Mill Pond, Throckmorton and Wilden. Staffs Noted throughout the county. The roost at Kings Bromley held 172 on Dccombor 5, while 26 flow over Paris Hall CP on Octobcr 10. IV Mid Certainly appears to be an increasingly regular visitor to our area, although the great majority of birds are reported as "fly-overs". Birds were recorded from 14 localities, with peak counts of 24 east over Park Lime Pits on September 18, ten south-east over Wyken Slough on September 20,15 over both Sheepwash UP and Valley Park on October 10 and 20 south-east over Netherton Res. on November 6. One at Sheepwash UP on June 2 was noted sitting on an electricity pylon. Birds were recorded at Sandwell Valley on 16 dates, Fens Pools on 11, Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough on nine, with Park Lime Pits and Valley Park on seven.

"Continental" Cormorant P. c. sinensis Warks Birds showing characteristics of this race were noted at Draycote during March (up to two), April 10 and December 18. Four were at Coombe on April 7 and one on 22, while at Kingsbury there was one on March 24.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis After the record-breaking 33 in 1992, no-one was expecting another "wreck" so soon after! Around 64 birds may have been involved but possible overlap with some of the records makes the real total impossible to calculate. These birds were part of a larger total spread right across the Midlands, particularly in Nottinghamshire. They presumably originated in the North Sea as an "erruptive" feeding flock which became disorientated in poor weather and were driven inland on strong easterly winds.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 3 30 22 16 59 No. of birds 7 53 39 19 119 Warks The Tame Valley records break a Draycote monopoly held since 1989. The two immatures at Draycote, present since autumn 1992, remained all year and moulted into second-winter plumage during the autumn many observers. The only new bird here this year was an immature which joined the other two briefly on March 10 JJB. Elsewhere, an adult remained at Dosthill from February 6 JAA, AC, ARD to 27 JAA, MY, also visiting Lea Marston on 21 PAF, TCH. One flew over Kingsbury with Cormorants on October 30 BLK. Worcs An impressive late winter influx. An adult was at Bittell on February 3 KC, followed by three immatures there on February 9, rising to four next day and five on February 11 MJI, GJM, GHP. At Upton Warren, four on February 6, with a further three flying over the same day SC, JHS. The four remained here until February 8 GHP, with one of these (an immature) lingering to March 8 when it was found dead per SC. Another immature was seen briefly at Upton Warren on May 16 SC. Two immatures were on the R. Severn at Worcester from February 8 to 15 MAS, AW, WFP, GHP. Staffs Immatures were recorded at: Chasewater, two from February 7 to 14, with one remaining until May 9 PAF, TCH et at, Branston WP, one on February 20 39

ESC, and Blithfield, one from September 19 to 26 ESC, MJI et al. W Mid An incredible influx into the region began with an amazing 24 at Edgbaston Res. on February 3 per TCH, with seven present the following day and from two to five present up to 11 TCH. Birds were then reported from the following locations (possibly involving some of the above and thus some duplication):- Netherton Res. on February 5 MDJ, with one on October 10 CJT\ four at Bartley on February 6 JHB; one at Sheepwash UP on February 6 DW, with two on 8 and 9 (adult and immature) DW, AGW, MY and one remaining to 10 DW, one at Fens Pools on 7 SLH, EGP, 8 and 16 SE, BMM\ one in Sandwell Valley on 8 per TCH, three from 11 to 13 per TCH, with two from 17 to 19 per TCH, one found in a garden in Carpenter Road, Edgbaston on 13 per PMH, an adult and immature in Mary Stevens Park from 11 EGP to 16 FP, with the immature remaining to 23 FP, and one along the canal at Five Ways, Edgbaston on March 17 TCH, which stayed to at least July 14 DB. 1992 Addenda W Mid Three immatures were at Netherton Res. on August 31, two on September 1 and 2, with one remaining until 9, when it was caught and later released at Fens Pools CJT. Also on August 31, three immatures were found on Swan Pool, Sandwell Valley, with two present the following day and another briefly on September 17 JEFetal. At Fens Pools, apart from the released Netherton bird on September 9, an immature was present from September 15 to 18, being found dead on 21 MDJ, BMM.

Bittern Botaurus stellaris Many of the birds seen in the Region may have a continental origin, this was almost certainly the case this year with a widespread influx into Britain in January and February producing a small flush of records.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 9 10 12 20 17 Warks One found injured in Cardigan Road, Bedworth on January 15, was taken into care but subsequently died perRSPCA. Another in the Dosthill and Middleton area stayed from January 16 to February 16 observer details withheld, with possibly the same bird at Ladywalk on 23 MWP. Two more records early in the year remain unsubstantiated, but if there were indeed four or five birds involved then it would have represented a significant influx. At the end of the year one was seen again at Ladywalk on December 23 MAA, MWP. Staffs Singles noted at Park Hall CP on April 13 GS perAL and Blithfield on Novem- ber 23 ESC. WMid One in Sandwell Valley on January 3 BJL, LL, was seen again on 27 PMH, TCH, AJW and 31 DC, DW. One at Fens Pools on January 7 SE, BMM, with another at this seemingly favoured locality on November 30 SE, BMM et al. One at Sheepwash UP on January 12 AGW. The January records may all refer to just one wandering individual.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis This well-watched bird was subsequently relocated in Gloucestershire in the 40

New Year. It was the second regional record (the first was at Doxey, Staffs in January 1987), although a probable escape was in Worcs in 1980. [N.B. This reujid lidb yet lu Lib dsbeb&ed by DDRC].

Cattle Egret (Phil Jones) Worcs One at Besford intermittantly from at least October 25 to November 14 and again from December 4 to 26 DSk, SMW, GHP et al. The same bird was at Bredon's Hardwick for a short time on December 27 SJH, SMW. This was the first authentic county record.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta With only eight previous records this century, this year's total of 10-14 birds was remarkable. Most birds occurred as a result of the huge August influx into Britain but the first ever winter record is noteworthy. Warks One on the north pit at Kingsbury on June 7 MP, was again reluctant to stay for long. Worcs One at Bredon's Hardwick from August 12 to 16 SJH et al, also visited Kinsham on August 14 and 15 SMW. Three were at Upper Bitted on August 18 KC et al. Four small egrets seen in flight over Defford also on August 18 were almost certainly this species per JRH. Staffs Two were seen together at Blithfield on August 21 several observers before departing south at 1020 hrs. At 1210 hrs a different bird arrived from the north-west ICW et al and stayed until September 4. At Belvide, one on August 20 ICW et al, was refound at Chillington Pool on August 22 KA et al. It remained in the area until September 5, spending most of its time at Chilling- ton (where it roosted on the island), but occasionally visiting Belvide and several small pools in the Codsall area. One was at Belvide on December 7 and 8 OS.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Warks Record breeding success at Coombe, with 47 pairs rearing up to 100 young. This contrasted with a reduced total at Ragley Hall, where 15 nests produced only 24 young. At Compton Verney on October 2, a weasel was seen to attack a heron which eventually overcame the aggressor. The heron was then seen flying away with the weasel which had apparently been drowned. 41

Worcs The main central heronry held about 20 nests. A pair also nested at Kemer- ton. Counts included eight at Bittell, 13 at Upton Warren and five at West- wood, all in August. Staffs The heronry records received are incomplete this year. Nest counts came from Aqualate (44); Hazelstrine (Stafford) (two), a new site; Mill NR (12), and Trentham Gardens (14). No attempt was made to breed at Chill- ington. Maximum counts included up to 24 at Blithfield from July to October, 13 at Gailey on March 26 and 18 at Rudyard on July 4. A bird colour-ringed in Greater Manchester during April 1992 was at Belvide on May 3.11 records of birds raiding garden ponds were received from Lichfield. W Mid Again, suspicions were fuelled that nesting may have occurred at the southern end of Valley Park, when youngsters were noted in mid-June along the Staffs and Worcs Canal. At least three old nests were noted at Berkswell in December, so breeding may still occur there. Reported from 18 localities outside the breeding season, with notable counts of six at both Cornets End and Stubber's Green in August, eight at Park Lime Pits in September and 11 in Sandwell Valley in November. Birds visiting garden ponds were noted at Aldridge, Knowle, Marston Green and south Walsall.

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea The sixth Regional record and the first in Staffs since 1fl5fi! Staffs One flew over Branston WP on May 2 DAS, HEW.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia Another all-too-brief sighting, this bird was only the fifth Regional record this century and the second for the county (the first was in 1984). The last bird was at Doxey and Stafford in 1990. Worcs One spent about thirty minutes at Upton Warren on May 28 before flying off south-east RW, DWr.

Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia No records, the last blank year was in 1989. A decline in frequency is evident in the five-year totals since the peak of 1979-83.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. ot birds 7 5 9 7 5

Mute Swan Cygnus olor Numbers seem to be on the increase after a recovery from earlier lead- poisoning incidents, although urban pairs continue to suffer from vandalism. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N O

Alvecote 20 12 15 33 20 — 26 33 30 50 44 18 Draycole 4 3 4 3 15 18 26 32 24 28 41 20

Kingsbury area 27 15 14 — 22 33 92 51 71 40 56 40 42

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Bredon's Hardwick _ — 27 36 46 Larford lid 1 J i — — — — — 14 p Pirton — — — — — — — — — — 56 56 Upton Warren 5 2 6 6 4 4 2 3 1 2 4 4 Westwood 9 9 4 6 7 2 11 11 11 13 10 5

Aqualate 0 8 4 2 — 2 2 — — 4 — 12 Belvide 2 4 7 14 25 47 48 34 12 8 1 5 Blithtield 1 0 2 — 5 116 130 123 26 1 4 2 Burton 43 — — — — — 97 — — — — Chasewater 42 33 33 35 29 21 54 59 66 59 37 43 Elluid CO 72 60 — — 77 — 45 ?5 5fi 2 Kettlebrook 8 — — — — — 17 17 17 3 — — Weslport 50 33 40 46 67 68 79 64 65 78 83 93

Wyken Slough 12 14 20 21 25 34 26 26 26 23 31 30 Warks 52 on the R. Avon at Stratford on March 6 was the only other notable count. Bred on many of the smaller pools and reservoirs throughout the county. Smaller broods were noted in general this year, typically one to three per pair. Worcs Bred at Ashmoor Common, Bishampton, Kemerton, Upton Warren and West- wood. Elsewhere on the R. Severn, 130 were at Worcester on February 11, 49 at Ribbesford on November 11 and 12 at Grimley on January 17. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from: Aqualate, Bath Pool, Chasewater (three), Croxall (failed), Elford (four), Gailey, Great Haywood, Kettlebrook Park, R. Dove, Stafford (two), Tixall, Westport (three) and Woodmill. Elsewhere, other counts included: 39 at Alrewas on April 11, seven at Borrowpit on January 27, 163 at Cat Holme on February 11, 60 at Croxall on March 4, nine at Ford Green in July, 44 at Tamworth in July and five at Whitemore Hay on January 26. At Chasewater a total of 111 different colour-ringed birds were recorded during the year. WMid Nesting pairs were noted at Cornets End (unsuccessful), Fens Pools, Fowlers Park (the male was killed, possibly by vandals, and the female sub- sequently deserted), Park (a brood of nine on May 13 had reduced to two by June 30), Sandwell Valley (three pairs bred, but several young were lost to collisions with electric cables and to vandals), Stechford, Stoke Floods, Stubber's Green, Swanswell Pool (Coventry), Warrens Hall Park, Windmill Hill and Wyken Slough (eggs destroyed by vandals).

Bewick's Swan Cygnus columbianus Average: October 15 (4) to March 14 (4) Warks In the first winter period at Draycote there was one on January 17, six on 19, a flock of 14 on March 1 and one on 17. in the autumn a movement occurred on October 31, with seven over Church Lawford, six at Draycote early in the day and then five later. Whether there was an overlap with these birds remains unsure. One at Dosthill on November 5, was followed by 19 at Draycote on 29, which was the largest recorded herd of the year. There were two more here on December 13 and one on 25. Next day, six were at Dosthill and five over Ufton Wood. 43

Worcs A poor year. At Bredon's Hardwick, 18 were present intermittantly from January 25 to February 13. Three were at this site on December 12, followed by a single on December 25 and three more on December 29. Elsewhere, five over Upton Warren on January 23 and two at Westwood on February 5. Two paused briefly at Bittell on October 19, while two adults and a juvenile stayed at Kempsey Upper Ham on November 18 and 19. Staffs At Whitemoor Hay, a party of 14 present from January 25, increased to 16 from February 1 to 15 and then dropped to five on 17, with two birds still present on February 20. Two were seen at Barton on January 3. Belvide produced 12 on January 3, 18 on 15 and ten on 31. At Blithfield, there were 38 on January 3, with three on February 16 and one on March 16. 70 flew over Cannock Tip on February 18, 16 at Elford on February 13 and 50 at Tlttesworth on February 16. In the second winter period, 19 were present at Barton on October 26 and nine on December 11. At Belvide, there were 14 on October 27 and November 5, with three on November 10. Blithfield had two on October 23 and seven on December 14, while Cat Holme produced five on November 29, nine on 30 arid seven on December 1. A herd of at least 32 flew over Chasewater on October 24. Finally there were singles at Westport on October 23 and November 20. One of the birds present at Belvide on November 5 had been ringed as ah immature male at Martin Mere on December 4 1991. The same bird had also been recorded in Denmark during March 1992 and at Welney, Norfolk on December 12 1992. W Mid 32 adults flew south over Fens Pools on March 5.

1992 Addenda Worcs Three were at Bredon's Hardwick from February 3 to 8. Later in the year here, eight paused briefly on December 5 and ten on December 25. At Bittell, 26 flew over on December 10 with five more on December 21. Four were at Upton Warren on January 1, with one on December 21. Single adults were at Westwood on January 1 and December 30.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Some larger parties in recent years have helped to boost the five-year totals but the frequency does not improve.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 '1989-93

No. of records 12 36 29 29 26 No. of birds 41 104 110 78 128 Staffs Ten adults at Belvide on January 13 KA and six adults at Knypersley on December 5 AH. At Tlttesworth, there were six on November 30 and 17 on December 25 PAW. W Mid An adult on a small pool along Moseley Road, Bilston on February 3 SAR was unringed and wary. Two adults and an immature flew over Fens Pools on March 25 SE. Two adults, presumably feral, were at Sheepwash UP from June 6 to 9 DW, AGW and in Sandwell Valley on June 7 per TCH and 30 KMC. 44

1992 Addendum W Mid Two adults at Sheepwash UP on June 14 DIH, DW. These were presumably the same birds as those recorded again in 1993.

Wild Swans C. columbianus/cygnus Warks Two at Coton on December 26. Worcs A flock of 11 flew over Bittell on January 1.

Bean Goose Anser fabalis

Bean Geese (Phi! Jones)

A good crop of records. The birds in Staffs were the first in that county since 1988. Worcs An unringed, apparently wild bird, was at Bredon's Hardwick on December 4 and 5 SMW et al. This was only the third county record. Staffs Three at Blithfield from October 19 to 23 PJ, WJL, JCT. One was at Doxey on November 19 AG, two at Cat Holme on November 30 ESC and one at Croxall on December 14 RJJ.

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus The increase has been maintained.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 12 10 44 34 60 No. of birds 67 35 1188 2209 2111 45

Warks No wild birds seen this year. The Coventry-based bird was seen at Brandon, Coombe, Draycote or Jubilee Pools between March 30 and September 15. Another was at Dosthill on May 31. Worcs Eight were at Bredon's Hardwick from February 3 to 8 AFJ, GHP, one here on February 17 SJH and two at nearby Bredon next day GHP. One was at Larford on May 3 REH, MJI. Staffs The largest numbers occurred in the north of the county. Early in the year flocks of 200 flew east at Cheadle on January 12 WJL and over Coombes Valley in February. At Westport, 25 headed south on February 16 CW, while birds were also heard over Newcastle at 20.40 hrs on February 6 and at 23.40 hrs on 16 WJL Eight were at Blithfield from February 17 to 21 ESC et al. and two at Tittesworth on 14, with 11 on 19 PAW. A feral bird was present with Canada Geese at the latter site from July 4 to August 10; moving to Rudyard from September 5 to 7 AB et al. In the autumn a flock of 103 flew south-east over Westport on October 14 WJL, with further flocks of 91 on November 14 and 120 on December 26, south-east over Tittesworth PAW and 150 over Coombes Valley, also in December. Two were at Blithfield on November 7 ESC, MJI and two north-east at Chasewater on 28 ARD. 1991 Addendum W Mid Four that visited Wyken Slough briefly on November 17 per JJB, were almost ccrtainly wild.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons The frequency over the last five years is unchanged, although flock sizes are much reduced. Notable influxes both early and late made 1993 the best year since the mid 1980's.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 51 32 48 49 51 No. of birds 792 398 442 444 231 Warks Five at Ladywalk on February 16 BLK, probably moved to the Dosthill area where six were present from February 20 PDH to March 4 PC. A probable feral bird was at Draycote from January 17 to 21, with two on November 27. Worcs Early in the year an adult was at Bredon's Hardwick on January 2 and 3 SJH, RWP, SMW, two immatures at Westwood on'January 9 S/WWand four adults at Broome Pool from January 25 to February 21 WFP, TMH. An adult and immature were at Grimley from January 16 to at least March 7 MJI, GJM, SMW, also visiting Claines Pool from February 5 to 21 GHP, WFP. In the autumn an adult and six juveniles arrived at Westwood on November 8 GDL. Two adults and six juveniles were then here on November 20, being joined by a seventh juvenile from November 28. This group regularly fed and roosted at Westwood until December 29, but had reduced to eight on December 31 SMW et al. What presumably was the same party occasionly visited Upton Warren between November 8 PA and December 23 TMH. Elsewhere, 15 arrived at Bredon's Hardwick on December 1, increasing to 16 two days later and 17, including an immature, on December 4 SJH, RWP, SMW. A single adult was seen again here on December 18 RWP. Finally, four 46

adults were at Bittell on December 6 KC, in company with Barnacle Geese. Staffs Seven at Whitemoor Hay on February 17 DJA moved to Croxall from Feb- ruary 19 to 22 DJA, ESC et al. 19 at Manor Park GP from February 18 to 21 ESC etal, were also seen flying over Blithfield on February 21 ESC, AL, WJL. Six were at Dosthill on February 27 JAA, 13 at Aqualate on March 1 FCG and five at Elford on March 13, with three until March 30 DJA et al. Late in the year, two were at Alrewas GP on December 4 ESC and one at Blithfield from December 19 to 22 ESC, WJL. W Mid An adult in Sandwell Valley from February 5 to the end of the year per TCH, was wary upon arrival but soon came for bread! This bird also visited Sheep- wash UP on February 8 to 10 DW, AGWwith another brief visit on June 15, and Edgbaston Res. on March 1 TCH. 1992 Addendum W Mid One at Stubber's Green on May 29 was probably an escape NAF. Greylag Goose Anser anser Warks Monthly maxima in the Kingsbury area:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

50 50 50 — 35 20 6 32 28 — 40 42 Bred at Brandon (three pairs) and Coombe (two pairs). Largest counts away from the Tame Valley were 38 at Brandon, 36 al Coombe and 50 at Pack- ington. Away from these general areas it usually only occurs in very small numbers, so 21 at Draycote on February 9 was unusual. Worcs A maximum of eight at Bredon's Hardwick in March, declining to five in April and with two more in December. Five at Beckford on December 19. Else- where, one or two at Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Broome Pool, Claines Pool, Grimley, Larford, Pirton, Upton Warren and Westwood. Staffs One present at Tittesworth from June 13 to July 25 paired with a Canada Goose and produced three hybrid young. Singles recorded at Rudyard on January 3, Aqualate on January 17 and March 1, Chasewater on April 11, with two there on May 8 and 11, while three were at Elford on March 3. At Belvide, three on March 26, one on April 4, two on 17, one on May 1, one on August 26, two on September 30, with two or three present between October 6 and 17. At Doxey, three on March 26 and two on November 17. Two at Croxall on March 28 and April 28. Two at Blithfield on August 5 and 14, with two again on September 11 and 19. W Mid The bird at Wyken Slough from October 1992 remained until April 26. Another was here on June 9. One in Sandwell valley on April 23, with another from May 13 to the end of the year, which was joined by a second bird in November. Singles were at Bartley on April 27 and Valley Park on May 1, with three south here on May 9. One at Cornets End on August 8 and 11. Six flying over Binley on May 6 were Coombe birds, while one on Perry Hall playing fields on November 12 was presumably from Sandwell Valley. Grey Geese sp. Worcs Ten flying south over Holt Fleet on December 29 were almost certainly White- fronts. 47

Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Unusually, there were no records at all In 1993. 1991 Addendum Warks A white-phase bird was in the Bedworlh, Exhall and Hawkesbury area on April 16.

Canada Goose Branta canadensis Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Brandon 90 98 95 70 71 65 78 175 300 101 58 125 Chesterton 200 216 260 280 — 60 161 260 186 380 — — Coombe 142 191 160 140 160 120 325 — 105 285 300 350 Draycote 269 100 134 105 60 38 54 670 400 342 168 280

Kingsbury area 329 559 360 130 — — 345 476 499 — — 640

Bishampton Vale Pool — — — — — — ' — 115 — — Bittell 22 5 8 — — — 13 460 100 10b 30 Bredon's Hardwick — — 30 — — — — 70 — 170 200 9 Grimley 369 — — — — 100 291 — 515 Larford 2 8 20 20 15 — — — — 132 35 15 Pirton 90 — — — 4 50 200 — — — — 60 Upton Warren 270 53 60 51 45 50 75 375 37 — — 90 Westwood 40 — 10 2 2 50 fiO ?S asn 3? 300 350

Aqualate 189 95 85 — 54 39 89 110 96 89 8 Belvide 143 — 21 30 — — 97 182 250 196 124 234 Blithfield 595 144 11 — — 25 33 170 484 328 467 37 Chasewater 2 8 6 — 6 — — 10 201 183 2 68 Doxey 336 185 — — 0 42 126 164 150 324 240 319 Elford 266 307 106 — — — 128 157 45 4 254 83 Rudyard 47 202 134 — 143 8 Tittesworth — — — — — — 42 69 74 33 17 — Westport 21 20 16 14 26 35 28 40 40 36 24 24

Comets End 6 2 7 9 6 — 177 36 — 13 46 Fens Pools 59 11 9 — — — — — 32 37 64 29 Wyken Slough 130 18 11 5 3 3 35 26 175 134 74 160 Warks Localities where in excess of five broods were noted included: Brandon (17), Chesterton (15), Coombe (20), Jubilee Pools (six) and Kingsbury (nine). Brood sizes were reportedvto be' small at Brandon. Worcs Ninety young were reared from 16 nests at Arrow Valley Lake. Other pairs bred at Beckford, Bittell, Bredon's Hardwick (four), Kemerton, Larford (two), Mill Pond (two), Pirton (two), Spetchley Park (two), Upton Warren (four) and Westwood. Staffs Breeding reported from: Aqualate (27 goslings), Belvide (32 goslings), Betley Mere, Croxall (25 goslings), Pendeford Mill NR, Rudyard (13 juveniles), Tixall and Westport (two pairs hatched 11 young). Maxima at other sites included: 61 at Brocton, 70 at Blurton, 133 at Croxall, 49 at Gailey, 110 at Hollybush, 80 at Pendeford Mill NR and 29 at Tlxall. At Aqualate 26 birds were culled. W Mid Breeding season pairs at: Bartley, Berkswell Hall (one brood), Cornets End (three broods), Mushroom Green Marsh (unsuccessful), Netherton Hill, Park 48

Lime Pits, Sandweli Valley (at least 25 pairs produced over 100 young), Sheepwash UP (seven pairs), Stubber's Green and Sutton Park. Other not- ahip rnnnts included 462 in Sandwell Valley in August, 260 flying over Valley Park (probably from West Park, or , Staffs) in September and 127 at Park Hall Pool (), also in September.

"Cackling" Canada Goose B. c. minima Warks A bird of this small dark race was at Draycote on January 1. It was pre- sumably the same individual as the one seen here in 1992.

"Taverner's" Canada Goose B. c. taverneri Warks One at Chesterton on April 2, closely resembled this race. However, the pos- sibility of a hybrid between B. c. minima and a larger race could not be discounted.

"Lesser" Canada Goose B. c. parvipes Worcs One was seen at Westwood on September 21.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Warks At least three feral birds appear to be resident in the county, two being at Chesterton and one in the Kingsbury/Ladywalk area. Two at Draycote from April 30 to May 30 were also presumably feral, though six there from December 28 to 31 stood more chance of being wild. Worcs Four birds which arrived in company with four White-fronts at Upper Bittell on December 6 were thought to be truly wild KC. Bishampton Vale Pool held up to six birds between January 9 and June 12 and up to three between July 26 and October 28. Up to four were at Bredon's Hardwick from November 20 to the end of the year. Two were at Larford on March 30, with singles at Upton Warren from October 23 to 24 and Beckford on December 4. Staffs At Blithfield, singles on January 3 and from September 6 to the year end, were followed by parlies of 15 on November 3, three on December 9 and 12 from December 20 to 21. One at Belvide on March 26 and from June 19 to November 11, when it was joined by a second. Both birds then stayed until the year end, with a further nine present on October 27. A single bird was at Doxey on October 10 and 11. W Mid A bird was in Sandwell Valley from May 4 to 24 and again from September 11 to the end of the year. Singles visited Sheepwash UP on May 17 and both Fens Pools and Milking Bank Pool on August 11. 1991 Addendum W Mid One at Wyken Slough on November 24.

1992 Addenda Staffs Single birds present at Rudyard on January 21 and Tittesworth on April 24. At Blithfield, one on January 19, two on August 10 and 13, one on 15, two again on 16 and one on 21. At Belvide, there were two on May 15, two on September 14 to 16, 21 and 24. On October 3, five birds flew in from the south-east, circled the reservoir several times and departed west. This was 49

on a murky day with a north-west wind, possibly indicating a wild origin. One was at Dosthill on September 19.

Anser/Branta Hybrids Canada x Greylag Goose Warks Up to two were at Coombe all year. Worcs Singles were reported during the year at Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Claines Pool, Grimley, Harvington Pool and Westwood. Staffs Three reared at Tittesworth (see Greylag Goose). W Mid One at Wyken Slough on August 16 was thought to be from Coombe.

Barnacle hybrids Worcs Individuals of unknown specific parentage were reported from Bishampton Vale Pool, Bredon's Hardwick and Upton Warren during the year.

Barnacle x Canada Goose 1992 Addendum Staffs A single bird believed to be of this parentage was seen at Blithfield on August 16.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla bernicla Most records have been of the dark-bellied race. The huge increase in records since the 1980's has been a reflection of the national picture, where this race has proliferated due to better winter feeding opportunities creating good breeding success in western Siberia.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records e 1 2 20 38 No. of birds 21 1 2 86 109 Warks Single birds at Draycote on November 13 REH, DJS and 27 RCM. These may involve just one individual. Worcs An adult at Larford on January 4 GHP, SMW was present on and off until May 11 TE. It was joined intermittantly by a second adult between January 25 and April 4 GHP, RWP. Two more were at Bittell from February 16 to 21 KC. Staffs A party of 12 was at Westport on February 9 PJ, MDS. There were three on the JCB pools at Rocester on March 30 WJL, one at Alrewas GP on Novem- ber 15 ESC and 25 south-east over Doxey on November 21 SAR. W Mid Single adults were reported at Fens Pools from March 2 to 22 KMC, SE, GCW, Bartley on April 19 JHB, AN and Sandwell Valley from April 20 to 29 per TCH. Records presumably relate to a single wandering individual.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Warks One at Lower Radboume on May 14.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Warks A male was present at Dosthill or Middleton from at least May 1 to 18 and again on June 8 JAA, JJB, DJS et al. The same bird was at Ladywalk from 50

May 19 to June 7 BLK et al. Two were at Draycote on July 29 MDB and one on August 5. Worcs A female at Broome Pool on April 4, with probably the same bird over Oakley on April 24 and at Upton Warren on May 5. A pair was at Upton Warren on May 18 and Larford on June 5. Two were again at Upton Warren on August 12. Staffs Singles at Barton GP on June 20 ESC, GIG, Aqualate on March 3 and Blithfield from August 13 to at least December 22 ESC, AL. W Mid One at Stubber's Green from April 26 to 28 HD, PPN, GKN. 1989 Addendum W Mid One at Wyken Slough on September 24 per JJB. 1992 Addenda W Mid An adult female and two juveniles were at Stubber's Green from August 24 to at least September 5 JPM etal. They were then seen flying south-east over Sheepwash UP early on September 7 GW, before being reported at Stoke Floods (Coventry) later the same day. After a few days stay here, they were back at Stubber's Green from 14 to at least 19 JPM, TCH. Apparently quite wary when they first arrived, they had become very confiding by early September. Shelduck Tadoma tadorna Monthly maxima at main sites:

. J F M A M J J A s O N •

Alvecote 11 30 20 14 2 4 2 2 3 — Kingsbury area 14 30 30 19 30 10 10 7 - 2 2 6

Ladywalk 12 11 13 10 5 - . 2 - - - - 3

Bishampton Vale Pool — 1 — 3 — — — — — — — — Bittell — — — — — — — 4 — — — — Bredon's Hardwick 4 4 4 3 3 Larford 1 2 Longdon Marsh 4 Upton Warren 1 5 6 1 2 — — 1 1 — 1 1 Westwood 2 — 1 1 Wilden 1

Barton 3 2 6 15 10 26 — 1 5 6 9 3 Belvide 2 0 2 3 10 0 0 9 10 0 1 0 Blithfield — 6 2 — — 4 7 5 4 3 1 Branston 16 • 7 34 43 30 16 — 5 1 2 3 — Doxey 1 — — — 2 — — — — Tittesworth — 1 2 — — — 1 — Westport 1 1 1 Warks Pairs bred at Alvecote (two), Kingsbury (one) and Ladywalk (one). Other not- able concentrations included eight at Shustoke on January 7 and 8, 11 at Earlswood on April 20 and maxima at Draycote of ten on August 27 and nine on November 9. A party of 11 at BAD Kineton on May 18 was an unusual record, both for date and locality. Worcs Two were at Trimpley Res. on January 2, with singles on floodwater at Upton- upon-Severn on December 18 and Grimley on December 29. 51

Staffs Bred at Branston (two broods totalling seven young). Maxima at other sites included: nine at Clay Mills on February 16 and six at Rudyard on August 29. Smaller numbers also recorded from Aqualate, Doxey, Chasewater, Croxall and Pendeford Mill NR. W Mid Two in the Cornets End area during May may have been prospecting or failed breeders. On January 3 there were six over Edgbaston Res. and eight flying west at Sandwell Valley. Three were in Sandwell Valley on January 27 and one on September 6. Two were present on Powells Pool, Sutton Park on March 7 and singles at Sheepwash UP on March 28, April 19 and 20, with five flying over here on August 24. One flew over Fens Pools early on May 3, while singles were on Hamstead Hall playing fields on September 14 and at Bartley on 22.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Warks A juvenile male at Shustoke on October 9 was the only record. Worcs A pair bred at Strensham. Breeding season records came from the Berrow/ White End area, Bewdley and Overbury. The only records from Beckford were of up to 12 in December. Single drakes were at Upton Warren on January 3 and Broome Pool on February 15. Two eclipse birds roosted at Bredon's Hardwick on August 12. Two drakes were on the R. Severn at Rib- besford on November 9 and a single was at Mill Pond in December. Staffs Pairs were noted on the R. Dove near Brodicote during spring and at Hard- ings Booth, Longnor on May 2. Singles reported from the canal at Codsall Woods on January 19, Weston Jones on February 6, Betley Mere on Feb- ruary 13, Blithfield on March 7, Tittesworth on April 24, Rudyard on May 4 and Belvide on May 20. W Mid Two males and a female were in Hayhead Wood on January 8, with a single male present on April 2.

Wigeon Anaspenelope Monthly maxima at main sites:

JF MAM J JASOND

Coton/Kingsbury WP 140 26 61 2 2 - 8 — 135 320 Draycote 850 660 465 91 2 13 390 608 1000 Jubilee pools 60 72 110 5 - 13 55 135 184 Ladywalk 202 61 122 — 2 2 3 22 139 63

Bittell 2 — 2 1 Bishampton Vale Pool 4 2 — — 1 5 — Bredon's Hardwick 616 930 1400 6 5 50 300 380 Grlmley/Holt 15 5 2 — — 10 Lartord 20 — — — 15 6 Longdon Marsh 100 — — — — 50 Pirton 60 160 Upton Warren 8 3 8 — 4 2 3 1 Westwood 45 30 41 3 2 11 32 52 52

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Aquaiate 105 46 23 — U- — — — 19 0 10 0 Barton 219 250 — — — — — 47 52 69 116 Belvide 163 139 160 34 1 0 3 4 32 55 97 153 Blilhlield 523 722 691 100 7 4 A 28 100 180 466 530 Chasewater 2 2 — 5 3 8 Croxall 331 — 6 61 300 450 Doxey e — 2 A 2 Ellord 36 47 46 — — — — — 8 — — Rudyard 3 — 30 176 "Tlttesworth 250 200 255 3 — — — — 5 95 140 212

Weslpoit — — — — — — - — 2 — —

Comets End 8 3 1 1 ' 1 — — Perry Barr Park 8 18 20 Sandwell Valley 24 25 26 1 — — — 15 12 29 17 Wyken Slough 1 A 1 — Warks There was at least one injured bird involved in the Dosthill and Kingsbury records of May and June. A pair were in this area on occasions from April 25 to May 19, with two drakes on May 1. A single drake was again here on May 26 and June 20. Maxima elsewhere included 38 at Brandon, 34 at Coombe and 107 at Shustoke. Worcs Elsewhere, there were 12 at Chateau Impney on March 3 and up to ten at Kempsey Upper Ham from November 17 to 27. Smaller numbers were also recorded at Lower Moor, Ribbesford, Strensham and Wilden. A small feral population was reported to be present at Mill Pond. Staffs Also recorded at Kingswood, Pendeford Mill NR, and Woodmill. W Mid Elsewhere, there were two at both Bartley on January 3 and Fens Pools on March 18. Between October 2 and November 27 records came from: Bartley (max. two), Brownhills Nature Trail (max. six), Edgbaston Park, Fens Pools (max. two), Netherton Res., Sutton Park and Witton Lakes.

Gadwall Anas strepera If there were really only two broods reared this year in the region, then it would have been a disastrous breeding season. During the last few years, there were eight in 1992, 14 in 1991 and 11 in 1990. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D

Brandon 42 29 17 7 5 6 1 6 3 25 42 25 Coton 19 22 7 — — — — — — 25 32 82 Draycote 19 6 6 6 3 2 — 23 17 15 25 20

Kingsbury area 5 15 — — — — — 9 — 28 48

Bittell 2 2 2 Bredon's Hardwick 5 — 2 2 3 7 11 Grimley — — — — — — — — 5 Lartord 52 24 18 15 2 2 — — 4 13 12 26 Pirton — 8 2 — — — — — 11 24 Upton Warren — 2 1 4 3 — — 2 1 1 2 — Weslwood 26 17 37 27 10 9 A 5 10 21 26 20 53

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Barton — — _ 6 2 — 6 6 19 25 13 6 Belvide 6 4 24 17 4 — 14 1 23 6 4 9 Blithfield 4 3 5 6 6 9 5 6 2 5 0 6 Chasewater lb 1 — Elford — 6 2 — — — — 2 6 5 11 24 Westport 6 3 3 2 2 1 2 2 2 e 3 Warks Elsewhere there were occasional records from many waters, with the best counts being 13 at Alvecote on March 10, 28 at Jubilee Pools on January 3 and 30 at Ladywalk in late August. Worcs A brood of four at Larford was the only breeding record. Also seen at Abber- ton, Bishampton Vale Pool, Church Lench, Frankley, Lower Moor, Oakley and Wilden during spring and summer months. Three were at Kempsey Upper Ham on November 21 and a male at Mill Pond on September 29. Staffs Bred at Belvide. Maxima at other sites: two at Aqualate on April 25, 12 at Barton on November 19, up to four at Branston all year, 11 at Chasewater on January 3, two at Doxey on October 24, three at Kingswood on January 16 and one at Tittesworth on February 14. W Mid Once again, the regular male was present throughout the year at Fens Pools except for a brief mid-summer spell. He was joined by two males and a female on November 16. The female at Netherton Res. from 1992 was present until January 3 when she was joined by three males and two females, a pair were present from November 11 to 13. Sandwell Valley had birds on January 5 and 8 (two), March 10, May 6 (two) and December 29. A female flew over Valley Park on April 15. In the autumn, birds were reported from Edgbaston Park on September 22 (six), Cornets End on October 23 and November 7 (three) and Sutton Park on September 30 and November 27 to 28 (two).

Teal Anas crecca crecca Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Alvecote 65 56 44 18 50 21 Brandon 283 303 200 67 14 23 23 75 294 250 320 308 Draycote 400 400 250 55 — — 2 25 45 100 174 500 Kingsbury 300 100 39 — 4 — — — 111 — 50 200

Ladywalk 116 44 16 — — 1 6 35 16 115 134 110

Bittell 3 2 3 — — — — 8 8 2 7 ' 6 Bredon's Hardwick 330 35 450 3 130 480 Crowle — 2 11 16 Grimley — — 22 — — — — 1 16 — 70 157 Holt 162 — 10 14 Larford 12 3 — Longdon Marsh 240 350 Lower Moor 15 — 3 Strensham Lagoons 60 — 2 — — — — 2 6 7 — — Upton Warren 107 30 30 20 1 11 10 34 44 62 64 135 Westwood 16 4 9 2 — — 1 — 12 10 57 83 Wilden 23 — — — — — — — 2 — — — 54

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Aqnalale 161 2 21 2 — — — 1 1 20 88 Barton — — — — — — — 8 72 121 197 430 Belvide 200 120 16 30 4 17 22 125 344 565 553 826 Blithlield 322 104 179 — 0 0 11 100 285 646 1046 1697 Chasewater 25 3 16 6 — — — 8 36 25 28 Croxall 410 — — 80 — — — 3 60 70 216 394 Ooxey 318 100 — — — — 19 33 26 109 253 189 Ellord 66 8 9 — — — - 5 8 8 18 63 Rudyard 2 — — — — — — 22 240 236 215 100

Tlttesworth 4 6 8 5 — — 3 28 75 35 63 54

Comets End 203 13 18 — — — — 8 3 — 74 — Sandwell Valley — 40 45 35 1 1 3 20 41 48 52 41 Stubber's Green 18 — 4 — — — — — 12 6 — 12

Warks Bred in the Kingsbury area. Two pairs were present here regularly until at least May 26 and a brood of five young were noted on July 29 and 30. A drake also lingered at Ladywalk until June 23. Worcs A female with seven ducklings was reported at Feckenham Wylde Moor during the first week of May. There were 32 on a field pool at Guarlford on February 1, up to 59 at Kempsey Upper Ham in November and 30 at Stanford Court Pool on December 5. Smaller numbers were recorded at Ashmoor Common, Chateau Impney, Mill Pond and Westmancote. W Mid Elsewhere, one to ten birds were reported from: Bartley, Fens Pools, Nether- ton Res., Sutton Park, Valley Park, Witton Lakes and Wyken Slough.

Green-winged Teal A. c. carolinensis This was only the fifth Regional record of the North American race of Teal. Three of the previous four were in Warks; in 1953,1980 and 1990. The other was of a bird that wintered at Blithfield in 1990/91, returning for another spell between October and December 1991. Worcs A drake first identified at Bredon's Hardwick on December 26 1992 was pre- sent here again on January 3 and 5 SJH, GHP, SMW. This constitutes the first county record of this nearctic race.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Atvecote 260 51 23 — — 89 170 103 95 100 60 Brandon 178 85 39 28 74 175 189 250 172 81 200 409 Chesterton 200 65 75 — — 135 122 230 129 240 93 — Coombe 186 147 100 55 88 70 308 100 153 198 200 215 Draycote 600 550 180 60 75 118 210 620 570 380 605 500 Kingsbury 67 107 97 — — — — 130 187 — 42 211

Ladywalk 190 79 40 — — — 150 140 152 120 104 100 55

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D

Bishampton Vale Pool 110 40 15 — Bittell 80 45 20 — 7 — 54 136 — — 29 42 Bredon's Hardwick — — 20 — 50 — — — — — — 30 Grimley — — — — — — — — 100 — — 25 Pirton — — — — — — — 7 — — 60 36 Ripple — — — — — — 100 100 — — — Upton Warren 101 — — — 100 70 83 289 78 — — 16 Westwood 250 20 80 — — 142 140 275 200 116 250 120

Wilden 172 — 91 — 160 160 60 — 80 — 30 —

Aqualate 736 88 104 30 — 156 208 90 199 90 380 430 Belvide 475 — 78 86 — — 336 483 655 530 464 614 Blithfield 191 259 186 — — — 1317 860 994 993 317 735 Chasewater 74 43 35 17 50 — 61 140 136 149 70 127 Doxey 152 58 — — — — 105 270 51 330 264 126 Elford 244 51 41 — — — 10 9 70 170 55 255 Kettlebrook 90 — — — — — 87 66 44 45 — — Rudyard — — — — 58 — 89 — 180 61 81 4 Tittesworth 40 48 — 20 50 — 78 60 70 81 50 101

Westporl 79 66 42 — — 59 64 120 77 60 144 56

Comets End 283 78 33 — 30 44 — 111 140 198 333 206 Fens Pools 15 — 8 — — — 52 53 16 25 65 — Netherton Res. 23 — 10 13 7 9 13 22 33 34 42 40 Wyken Olouyli 7i a/ 18 9 12 10 26 33 68 65 60 55 Warks The best breeding results came from Chesterton (six broods), Coombe (12) and Draycote (eight).. Other counts included 175 at Napton Res. and 200 on the R. Avon at Stratford. Worcs Broods at Abberton, Beckford, Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell, Bredon's Hard- wick (four), British Camp Res., Eckington, Kemerton (two), Kinsham, Larford (two), Mill Pond (seven), New Pool, Purshall Green, Ripple, Spetchley Park (two), Upton Warren (ten), Westwood and Wilden (five). 38 were at Kempsey Upper Ham on November 20. Staffs Successful broods noted at Abbots Bromley, Ash wood, Blithfield and Kettle- brook. Maxima at other sites: 65 at Crossplains, 55 feeding on stubble at Byrkley Park, 24 at Gailey on December 5 and 400 at Croxall on December 28. W Mid Broods were reported from Bartley, Berkswell Hall, Comets End (three), Fens Pools (at least four), Hayhead Wood, Marston Green, Park Lime Pits (six), Sandwell Valley (at least nine), Sutton Park, Valley Park (at least ten) and Wyken Slough (two). 105 were counted at Edgbaston Res. on February 28.

Pintail Anas acuta A very good flock was present on floodwater at Longdon Marsh at both ends of the year. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F MAM J J A S 0 N D

Alvecote 2 6 5 — — Brandon 4 3 — — 1 — 56

JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote 7 2 — — — — — 5 2 — 12 4 Kingsbury area 5 3 1— — — — i c

Bishampton Vale Pool — 2 — 1 — — — 1 1 — — — Bittell ______1 — — — 2 Bredon's Hardwick 15 34 19 — — — — — 1 — 15 6 Kempsey Upper Ham 16 — — — — — — — — — 6 2 Larford 10 1— — — — — — — — — — Longdon Marsh 112 — — — — — — — — — — 70 Pirton — 2 — — — — — — — — — 2 Upton Warren 1 3 1 1 — 2 — — 6 1 — — Westwood 2 — — — — — — - — — 2 —

Belvide 1 16 400001 571 1 Blithtietd 11 21 25 6 1 0 0 6 16 15 18 20 Warks The tabulated records hide the fact that both Draycote and Kingsbury had good numbers on January 16 and 17. Five or six were at the former on both dates, while five were at the latter on the 17. One was also at Ladywalk on 16 with another on December 7 and 20. A pair on floodwater at Griff, near Nuneaton, on March 7 was a good record. Worcs A female was at Wilden on October 23. A pair were at Upton-upon-Sevem on December 27, with a drake next day at Severn Stoke. Staffs Barton held a single bird on January 1 and two on 17. On the latter date there were also 13 at Branston, with 14 at Croxall next day. A duck was at Kings- wood on January 28, with a pair there and two drakes at Aqualate on March 14. Tittesworth had a drake on February 14 and a duck from September 8 to December 12. Other autumn singles were at Chasewater on October 2 and Croxall on November 19. Westport produced two on October 18, one on November 20 and two from December 27 to 28. W Mid A female was at Comets End on January 9.

Garganey Anas auerauedula Average: April 1 (50) to September 27 (49) The first in spring were in Sandwell Valley on March 20 but most did not return until May. A few late stragglers were seen, the last at Belvide on October 10. The five-year totals show a dramatic return to the form of the 1960's and early 70's. The increase started in 1989 and since then between 42 and 50 have been seen annually, more than double the previous rate. The national figures have also increased in this period, with the summering popu- lation doubling also since 1989 due to more spring overshoots from the continent. More breeding attempts seem likely.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 347 175 132 98 234

Warks A pair at Ladywalk on April 2 were the first of the spring, with a drake there on May 12 and 21 and another at Brandon on May 10. A drake was at Dray- cote on April 9 and 10 , followed by two drakes and a duck on 12 and a single This Cattle Egret at Besford was only the second occurrence in the Region. November 1993. (Phill Ward) Little Egret. A widespread late-summer influx into Britain brought an unprecedented eight or twelve birds to the Region during August, including this one at Blithfield. (Phill Ward)

Dotterel at Morridge, North Staffs Moors. This was the fourth consecutive spring that birds had been seen here. May 1993. (Phill Ward) 57

Garganey (John Teasdale)

drake on May 8. At Dosthill, a drake was present from May 16 to 28, on June 8 and 13, with a different one on 9 and 17. Autumn records were few, just singles al Draycote on July 1 and Ladywalk on 20, with late birds at Coton on October 2 and Draycote on 8. Worcs A drake arrived at Bredon's Hardwick on May 5 and a pair were here on May 8. An eclipse male stayed at Upton Warren from July 7 to at least 13. Staffs Another good series from the two main reservoirs. At Blithfield, a drake was present on May 9 and 18, a pair on June 6, with another female joining them on June 11. Singles were present on many dates from June 26 to August 29, with two from August 5 to 13, three on 11 and nine on 21, finishing with a single on September 18 to 21. At Belvide, there were two drakes on May 9, three on 11, four and one duck on 12, with five and a duck on 14 (when mating was observed). Numbers reduced to three drakes and a duck by 18, two drakes and a duck on 22, with a single drake present from 25 to 30. Singles were present from July 7 to 14, 24 to 27, August 27 to September 12, two from 13 to 26 and one on October 10. The only others were a pair at Elford on May 8 and an immature, at Westport from August 17 to September 2. W Mid A very early pair were in Sandwell Valley on March 20.

Shoveler Anas clypeata Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Brandon 16 9 41 25 5 16 11 28 35 22 8 13 Coombe — — 3 2 — 14 — 5 72 20 10 2 Draycote 6 9 5 3 — — 15 15 45 48 29 Kingsbury area 26 15 27 20 7 3 8 165 50 45 33 Ladywalk 30 10 43 — — 3 5 27 22 28 7 58

J FMAM J JASOND

Bittell — — — - -_?____ Bredon's Hardwick 8 — — 2 — — 5 — — — 5 18 Grimley — — — — — — — — — — -5 3 Larford — 4 6 — — — — — — 3 4 7 Pirlon ______1 2 Upton Warren 10 17 32 12 5 6 5 27 84 24 8 2 Westwood 71 31 27 4 — 1 2 1 40 38 61 67 Wilden 14 47 30 6 2 2 — 45 41 30 6 —

Aqualate 17 0 0 9 — 3 — 2 0 38 114 0 BulvlUu 10 " SI 38 6 14 9 78 87 40 48 37 Blithfield 1 4 19 18 8 18 10 120 329 102 44 1 Chasewater 1 — — — — — — — — 6 3 — Doxey 4 — 2 — — — 2 — 14 28 16 — Tittesworth — 61 1— — 3— 111 — Westport 2 4 2 2 2 — — 2 — . 2 — —

Fens Pools 1 23 — — — 7 1 2388 Sandwell Valley 76 13 522388566 Wyken Slough i____ 2 — — 4 1 8 9 Warks Bred in the Kingsbury area, where a brood of six were seen on July 21. Also bred again at Brandon, but the brood here seemingly perished after a few days. Worcs Seven were at Lower Moor on March 14. One or two were also recorded at Kempsey Upper Ham, Longdon Marsh, Oakley and Strensham. Staffs Bred at Belvide, where a female and seven ducklings were seen on June 6, while a pair were present at Croxall. Maxima at other sites: five at Betley Mere on January 23, two at Rudyard on August 29, 38 at Barton on October 15, five at Handsacre on October 17, two at Elford on November 14, and five at Pendeford Mill NR on December 10. W Mid Elsewhere, birds were noted at: Netherton Res. on January 3, March 28 (three), and September 6; Bradnock's Marsh on July 23; Bartley Res. on September 8 (three); Stoke Floods on September 17 (three); Park Lime Pits on November 3 (two) and Cornets End on November 14 (six). Several observers reported an increase in birds this year.

Anas hybrids Teal x Wigeon Warks The oird reported at Draycote early in 1992, again overwintered and was last seen on March 7.

Mallard x Pintail Warks A male was at Dosthill on November 5.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina The big recent rise in the totals is more likely due to the increase in feral breeding colonies in Gloucestershire rather than to any change in frequency of escapes or wild birds. Might we hope for a breeding record soon? 59

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 19 33 21 15 71 Warks In the first winter period there was just one male, which frequented the Lea Marston and Coton area from February 16 DHR to March 6 JAA. Another male arrived at Coton on August 16 PC, staying until November 21 JAA. It was seen at Dosthill on November 8 PC, BLK. Two immatures or females were at Alvecote on August 28 ARD and one on September 1 arid 5 ARD. There were possibly four individuals involved in the following records from Draycote: an eclipse male on August 15 JJB, GIG, REH, PDH, a female on 31 JJB, another female on October 23 MFO and a male from November 5 to 21 RCM, TWetal. A drake noted at Brandon on November 11 was possibly of more dubious stock than most, being seen later on an ornamental pond nearby. Staffs At Chasewater, a male from January 3 to February 14 and an immature male from October 23 to November 7 GE et al. At Blithfield, an eclipse male on August 18 was joined by two females from August 22 to September 13, with the male remaining to September 15 ESC et al. A male was seen again on October 23 WJL. At Tittesworth, a female from September 1 to 11 JO, PAW et al. 1992 Addenda W Mid A very tame drake at Stubber's Green from January 7 to June 9 JPM, GKN et al, was probably the same bird that visited Sandwell Valley on March 19 BB, BJL, RWi. A pair flew south over Valley Park on April 18 and an immature drake was on the canal there on 20 and 21 VPBG.

Pochard Aythya ferina Another poor breeding season. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Draycote 180 65 70 _ _ — 1 6 43 220 350 450 Kingsbury 271 — — — — — 35 115 — — 244 197

Lea Marston area 693 1200 413 — — 4 25 — — 709 1700 609

Bishampton Vale Pool 24 34 11 1 — — — — 12 6 17 — Bittell 16 40 — — — — — — — 16 10 23 Bredon's Hardwick 60 62 50 3 0 0 — — — 40 25 30 Larlord 36 1 23 24 44 Pirton — 20 — • — — — — — — — 10 27 Upton Warren 47 36 42 2 4 5 6 10 16 42 12 53 Westwood 53 30 39 11 1 — 5 4 40 94 140 120

Wilden 31 47 32 2 — 2 — 1 — 26 39 —

Aqualate 114 2 65 116 — — 6 2 1 6 6 69 Belvide 174 40 27 2 4 14 6 20 35 93 68 139 Blithlietd 118 83 25 — 2 35 21 71 60 86 166 79 Chasewater 122 113 34 —• — — — 6 14 116 146 142 Croxall — — — — — — 3 1 1 6 13 40 Doxey 2 2 — 11 6 Ellord 73 65 47 — — — — 1 — 18 14 27 60

J F M A M J J A S O N D Gailey 83 103 Rudyard — — 29 — — — 2 — — 14 1 Tittesworth 135 42 95 1 — 1 1 — 9 27 40 Westport 18 21 17 3 3 1 6 4 10 24 30 23

Comets End 154 — 1 — — 2 — — 2 54 72 112 Fens Pools 17 20 8 — — — — 1 4 16 15 14 Sandwell Valley 80 58 20 3 2 — — 2 19 30 41 51 Stubber's Green 5 2 — — — — — — 4 13 8

Wyken Slough 26 15 5 1 — — — 2 2 10 24 Warks One pair bred at Alvecote. Three pairs summered at Coombe, but there was no successful breeding there this year. Maxima elsewhere: 87 at Alvecote, 45 at Coombe, 38 at Jubilee Pools and 75 at Packington. Worcs 34 were on floodwater at Upton-upon-Severn on December 27. Also seen at Lower Moor. Staffs There were 65 at Borrowpit on January 21, with 16 at Hollybush and small numbers from several other sites. W Mid Best counts at other sites included 37 at Edgbaston Res. on January 4, 23 on Longmoor Pool in Sutton Park on February 13 and 44 on Witton Lakes on February 14. Smaller numbers were reported from Bartley, Berkswell, Netherton Res., Queslett NP, Perry Barr Park and Stoke Floods.

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Warks The same wintering drake has been well-observed by hundreds of year listers since November 1990. This year it was present at Lea Marston or Coton until March 4 PC and from August 15 JAA, PC onwards into 1994. Worcs A drake was at Upton Warren on September 22 TMH, AFJ, SMW.

1992 Addendum Staffs A drake at Elford from February 8 to 10 DJA et al.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Draycote 650 210 140 30 7 19 29 86 138 550 1040 1000 Kingsbury/Dosthill 290 122 91 — — — — 216 79 — 392 567 Lea Marston/Coton 690 529 536 280 175 200 225 625 750 848 674 800

Bishampton Vale Pool 21 20 24 21 25 11 19 28 41 43 21 Bittell 18 10 9 — 13 — 1 25 12 16 19 Bredon's Hardwick 41 — 40 26 12 — 35 20 24 40 Larlord 14 16 8 14 12 — — 10 4 20 24 Lower Moor — — 14 — — 8 — — — — — 28 Pirton — 12 — — — — 12 40 Throckmorton 31 20 — — — — — — — 14 Upton Warren 6 6 22 47 30 19 20 15 4 1 — 3 Westwood 46 52 101 64 35 3 12 40 79 74 70 46

Wilden — — 4 24 36 40 18 7 — 2 — 61

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Aqualate 38 39 58 12 — 7 4 2 7 27 21 74 Barton — — — — — — 74 67 27 19 62 49 Belvide 56 100 157 157 — — 11 — 40 — 41 64 Blithfield 60 28 48 — 100 ?10 ?sn aaa ?7fi mn 50 21 Chasewater 439 488 246 251 19 — 6 33 277 571 727 792 Croxall — — — 120 — — 102 227 88 39 609 105 Elford 89 49 120 — — — 68 43 44 57 38 8 Kettlebrook 14 12 — 10 — — 3 '2 2 16 — — Tlttesworth 8 5 19 12 9 2 10 23 19 17 19 17 Westport 57 66 62 72 8 5 40 18 81 80 110 125

Comets bnd 69 26 34 — 45 26 21 26 25 56 26 22 Fens Pools 88 44 60 18 9 4 15 15 22 57 76 63 Netherton Res. 64 4 13 2 2 — — 5 4 4 65 70 Sandwell Valley — 42 60 105 170 Sutton Park 21 45 34 30 — — — — 60 62 — —

Wyken Slough 7 7 10 6 — 2 — 4 7 24 33 Warks Five broods noted at Chesterton, four each at Draycote, Jubilee Pools and Ladywalk, two at Packington and singles at Coombe and Dosthill. Maxima at other sites included 120 at Brandon, 83 at Chesterton, 100 at Jubilee Pools and 96 at Napton Res. Worcs Broods al: Ashmoor Common, Bredon's Hardwick (five), Kinsham, Lower Moor, Mamble, Stanford, Strensham, Upton Warren (two) and Wilden (three). Elsewhere, noted at Blackwell, British Camp Res., Grimley, Hagley, Holy Cross, Mill Pond, New Pool and Oakley. Staffs Broods were reared at: Tittesworth, Rudyard, Blithfield (two), Gailey (two) and Woodmill (two). Maximum counts at Gailey were 134 on February 5 and 44 on September 26, while 36 were at Brocton on October 30. The December total at Chasewater was the highest count recorded there. W Mid Broods were reported from Cornets End (two), Sandwell Valley and Stubber's Green. A deserted nest found at Fens Pools was the first attempted breeding here. Other notable counts included 25 at Stubber's Green on January 15 and 25 on Witton Lakes on April 10. Small numbers (less than 20) were reported from a further ten localities.

Scaup Aythya marila Numbers have remained consistantly high in recent winters, with a peak in 1991 when at jeast 68 occurred. The usual level seems to be around 20-40.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. ol birds 67 130 141 224 193 Warks In recent years Draycote has lagged a long way behind the Tame valley, but this year the latter had a comparatively lean time. At Draycote, a male from January 9 to 24, two males on August 13, a male from September 7 to 12, with another on October 31. A female was present on November 15 and two females/immatures from December 2 to 31. At Brandon, a female was pre- sent intermittantly from January 10 to 31, with the same bird at nearby Jubilee 62

Pools between 11 and 16. In the Lea Marston area, a female from 1992 pre- sent until January 14 was the only record before the autumn. A male appeared on September 30, remaining until October 2 and there was a female on November 8. Four immature males and a female were seen on November 20, the males still present next day. A single immature male was seen on November 29 and a female on December 5, 13 and 29. Worcs A party of six including a moulting drake were seen at Lower Bittell on October 31. Single females were at Pirton Pool from December 5 to 11 and Bredon's Hardwick from December 25 to 31. Also in December, a drake was on floodwater at Grimley on 28 and 29 and a duck at Kempsey Upper Ham on 31. Staffs At Tittesworth, single drakes were present from July 2 to 14 and from Novem- ber 1 to 8. A single duck was at Chasewater on November 7, with another on several dates between December 5 and 28. W Mid A female at Netherton Res. on December 4 commuted between here and Fens Pools up to the end of the year. Aythya hybrids Pochard x Tufted Duck Warks The female at Draycote from 1992 stayed until January 6 and was seen again on 30 and from February 22 to March 18. Possibly the same bird was at Jubilee Pools on April 19. At Lea Marston, a female also from 1992 remained until February 13 and it, or another, returned on November 21. Tufted Duck x Pochard Warks The two adult males at Coton and Lea Marston from 1992 remained until January 14, with one staying to March 18. This bird was at Kingsbury on March 22. A male was at Coombe on March 8 and May 14, while a female was at Jubilee Pools on April 8. A male at Draycote from October 8 to November 1 and December 16 to 31 was joined by a female on October 31 and December 24. Two males returned again to the Lea Marston area from November 7 to December 11, one staying to the end of the year.

Pochard x Ferruginous Duck Warks A female at Lea Marston from November 7 to 21. Worcs One at Larford on November 23.

Eider Somateria mollissima

Eiders (Phi! Jones) 63

An unprecedented influx this year distorts the five-year figures, which essen- tially shows a decline from the peak years of the 1960's. Two singles in 1989 were the only other recent records until October 31 this year. Then a wide- spread influx of well over 200 birds arrived in the Midlands on strong south- easterlies, presumably from the southern North Sea. More than 75% of birds were discovered to the east and north-east of the Region. Nothing on this scale had ever been recorded before. Not surprisingly, the flock of 18 at Dray- cote sets a new Regional record.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 4 1 4 0 16 No. of birds 5 1 6 0 48 Warks The following records were part of a large influx which occurred across many inland counties. These are the first county records since 1982/83, when three arrived at Draycote. That record was only the second county occurrence, putting the current influx into startling perspective. Some overlap is inevitable with such a wide range of plumage variation and for this reason females and immatures have been grouped, except when observers distinguished immature males. All of the tabulated records relate to Draycote.

Art male Imm male Fem/imm

31 three — 1 2 JJB, REH 1 four — 2 2 JJB 3 six 1 1 4 GIG 5 six 1 1 4 PDH 9 four 1 1 2 JJB 13 three — 3 — REH, DJS 15 two — — 2 JJB 19 18 — 4 14 RCM 20 one — 1 — PDH There was one other record; an adult female at Lea Marston on November 7 AHy and 8 PMH, SMH, TCH, BLK. Worcs An immature male was on the R. Severn at Ribbesford from November 6 to 14 TAP, SMW et at. A similar bird, possibly the same, was further down river at Diglis on December 26 TN. Staffs A female at Barton GP on October 31 MAA, MWP. A first-winter male and a female at Chasewater on October 31 ARD and November 1. Eight at Tlttes- worth on October 31 comprised one adult male, two immature males and five females JO, PAW. W Mid Single immature males in Sandwell Valley on October 31 RWS and Netherton Res. on November 2 CJT. Not surprisingly, both birds constituted first locality records.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis An uncharacteristically blank year, there are usually two or three records on average. The current five-year total was helped by a record 14 birds in 1991. 64

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birdc 11 9 1fi 10 ?1

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra The increase in records continues. The growth in the total of birds would be more exponential if the extraordinary influx of 197 in November 1988 is dis- regarded. The reasons for the increase are still obscure but one possible answer may be that a greater number of birds are now migrating overland.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 44 94 71 117 160 No. of birds 126 173 215 569 547 Warks Another good year, even though all records came from Draycote. The first, unsexed, was on January 8. A drake remained from February 14 to 16 and another on March 27. Two drakes arrived on April 9 with five and a duck next day. A drake then stayed from May 2 to 10 and a pair turned up on July 19. A drake on September 27, then two from October 27 to November 6, which were joined by a duck on 7. These three remained until November 17, when they were joined by nine more females/immatures to form a flock of 12. All birds then dispersed as there were no further records until three females/ immatures arrived on December 12. These were present up to December 27, with just one on 28. Worcs Single drakes were at Upton Warren on May 6, Bittell on July 24 and Larford on November 11. Staffs Seven drakes and three ducks were present at Tittesworth on April 9, with a single on October 31. On April 25 a small influx of drakes occurred, with nine at Calf Heath Res., 11 at Aqualate, one at Belvide and two at Blithfield. Blith- field also had four males on May 26 and a single on September 2. In addition to the above, Belvide had three males on April 26 and one from August 8 to 16. At Chasewater, one on July 24, a pair on July 28 and two females/ immatures on November 7, with one staying from 14 to December 5. W Mid A male in Sandwell Valley on July 24, followed by another on October 2 and two males and a female on October 11. A drake at Bartley on August 5. 1992 Erratum Warks The report mentions "the best one day total since 1988," however this record was unfortunately omitted. The paragraph should have closed with: (at Coton)"... a male on October 4 and 17 (four males) on November 8. Also on this date there were two females at Dosthill, with a male there on August 9."

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca Has been very scarce in recent years, with the only records since 1986 being of one in the 1989/90 winter, a party of three in December 1991 and one shortly after in January 1992. 65

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

. No. of records 5 9 5 6 3 No. of birds 6 14 6 16 5

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Monthly maxima at main eitoc:

JFMAMJJASOND

Draycote 140 115 110 11 — — — — — 65 117 141 Kingsbury/Doslhill 52 55 42 a — — — — — 3 40 40

Bishampton Vale Pool — — — ______2 — Bittell 9 8 6 5 — — — — — 10 9 7 Sredon's Hardwick — — — — — — 2 3 2 Lartord — 1 1 1 — — — — — — 1 — Upton Warren 1 1 1 — _____ — 3 1 Westwood 344 1— — — — — 345

Aqualate — 3 3 — — — — — — — — — Barton 35 20 23 — — — — — — — 2 22 Belvide 68 50 71 52 0 1 2 0 0 19 26 30 Blithfield 27 51 51 14 0 1 0 0 0 30 39 14 Chasewater 132 120 64 42 — — — — — — 142 147 Croxall ______4 2 Gailey 8 g_ — — — — — — — — — Rudyard — — 2 — 2 — — — — 1 3 — Westport 15 16 17 12 0 0 0 0 0 14 13 13

Bartley Res. 4 — 11 1 — — — — — — 1 — Fens Pools 52 1 1 — — — — — 3 1 1 Sandwell Valley ______1 2 2 Sutton Park 1 2 — — — — — — — 3 1 1 Warks Most unusual was a drake at Kingsbury on June 21 NFO. The maximum at Jubilee Pools was 11 on March 28. Up to five were occasional on many waters. Worcs Singles were at Lower Moor in February, Frankley and Grimley in November and at Upton-upon-Severn in December. Staffs The December count at Chasewater was a regional record. W Mid Elsewhere, a drake at Wyken Slough on February 20, an immature drake at Netherton Res. on November 4 and a duck at Edgbaston Park on November 22.

Smew Mergus albellus The increase seems to have levelled out, with an average of 16 birds per year compared to 21 during 1984-88. This is partly because of the mildness of recent winters; the only really cold spell in the current period contributed to an annual estimate of 40, half the entire total.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 12 31 41 107 82 66

Warks Just two localities involved once again. At Dosthill the three redheads from 1992 remained until February 9, with two until March 14 JAA, PC el al. and one staying to April 16 L)HH. I here were also occasional movements uf singles from here over to Coton; on March 9 PC and April 15 PC, PDH, BLK. A redhead was also present from 1992 at Draycote. It was joined by a drake on January 6 and then both birds stayed until March 30 MDB. In the second winter period there was an untypically early return at Dosthill with a redhead from October 26 PC. This bird was joined by another on November 16 MAA, PC, BLK and then by a third (all redheads) from December 26 to 31 JAA. At Draycote two redheads were seen on December 16 JJB and these were joined by a drake next day. These three stayed to the end of the year, but on December 22 three redheads were reported many observers. Worcs A redhead briefly at Larford on November 25 SMW and another at Lower Moor on December 3 and 4 TWM, WFP and again on 27 GHP. A drake was at Bredon's Hardwick on December 26 SMW, moving to floodwater at Upton- upon-Severn later the same day GHP. Staffs Single redheads were at Blithfield on January 3 ESC, WJL, February 7 WJL and at Dosthill on March 1 JAA. W Mid A redhead in Sutton Park from November 20 to 27 BM et al, with a male at Fens Pools on November 29 DIH.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus senator A slight decline in frequency, mainly because of two very poor years in 1989- 90. One welcome development is the recent rise in spring and summer records, which may yet lead to a breeding record in North Staffs.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 19 29 31 43 31 No. of birds 25 35 37 66 44 Warks The two redheads from 1992 remained at Draycote until January 23 ARD, with one staying to March 21 JJB. A drake was there on November 21 GIG and a redhead from December 15 to 31 RCM et al. There was another summer record at Dosthill this year, a drake from June 5 PDH, BLK, MY to 8 BLK. Summer records are seemingly on the increase. Worcs Two redheads at Westwood on October 15 SMW and another at Bittell on October 18 SMW. Staffs At Tlttesworth, there was an immature male on May 2 and a pair on 22 PAW. A redhead was at Belvide on November 5 SAR and an immature male at Blithfield on November 14 MJI, WJL. 1991 Addendum Warks A redhead at Draycote on January 25 JJB.

Goosander Mergus merganser Disappointingly there was no proven breeding in Staffs this year, after records in both the two previous years. Numbers at Draycote continue to increase. 67

Monthly maxima at main sites:

JFMAMJJASONO

Draycote 32 34 42 4 — — — — — 2 30 50 Ladywalk/Shustoke 7 5 6 — — — — — — — _ 5

Bittell ______4 2 Bredon's Hardwick 3 1 2 — — — — — — — I I Lartord 1 1 3 — — — — — — — 5 7 Teme Valley — — 6 — — — — — — 1 Upton Warren 1 1______2 1 Westwood — 1 — _____ — — — 1

Barton 14 5 2 — — — — — — — 8 15 Belvide 69 44 24 8 0 0 0 0 29 6 51 58 Blithfield 61 90 60 20 11 1 0 3 4 14 33 56 Croxall — 8 11 — — — — — — — 9 9 Rudyard 3 — 1______— 1 Tittesworth — — — — — — — — — — 6 2 Warks One at Lower Radbourne on February 14. Six were present at Brandon on October 30 and four from 31 to November 7. Four at Kingsbury on March 21 was the best count from that area. Worcs A pair at Trimpley Res. on February 12. In December, two redheads were at Lower Moor on 4 and one on the nearby R. Avon on 27. A redhead was at Pirton Pool on December 7 and a drake on floodwater at Upton-on-Severn on December 26. Staffs Birds were again present in the north-east of the county with two pairs in May and at least five females reported in June, but there was no proof of breeding. Maxima at other sites: Borrowpit, two on January 1 and 17; Hill Ridware, two on February 14; Longsdon, one on February 18; Walton-on-Trent, five on March 17; Handsacre, two on March 30. Singles at Westport on November 20 and December 21, five at Kings Bromley on December 26 and nine at Doxey on December 30. W Mid A good year in the county. All redheads unless otherwise stated. In Sandwell Valley, one on October 16, followed by one from December 18 to 24, increas- ing to five on 25 and eight the next day. A male flew over Fens Pools on October 29, with one flying over on December 1 and one present on 28. A singleton was at Comets End on November 7, and four, including a male, flew over Sheepwash UP on 21. An immature male was at Netherton Res. on December 26, with one flying over the old Willenhall SF on the same day.

Ruddy duck Oxyura jamaicensis Ironically, in the face of impending control measures, the population now seems to have peaked. Numbers at Blithfield are currently only half what they were in 1990/91 (when there was a peak of 899 in December 1990), while at Belvide there were 372 in 1989 and 334 in 1990 but are now becoming scarce there. Only at Coton is it still substantiably increasing. Let us hope that this reduction is not caused by increased emigration! 68

Monthly maxima at main sites:

.1 F M A M J J A s O N D

Coton 101 25 45 - 24 - 11 202 170 134 106 Bittell 1 1 1 Pirton — 10 — 4 — — — — 1 — Upton Warren 2 4 14 12 12 9 8 5 1 1 — Westwood 9 — 10 6 6 6 9 5 8 13 14 10

Wilden — — — 3 8 6 7 7 5 2 2 —

Aqualate — — — 2 — 5 4 10 4 1 3 2 Belvide 11 9 58 50 15 2 0 2 3 1 5 3 Blilhfield 393 331 362 — — 6 30 117 373 578 394 435 Chasewater 5 1 1 4 — — 1 — 2 2 3 —

Rudyard — — 1 — 2 — — 5 — — —

Cornets End _ — — — 3 4 8 2 4 4 4 Sutton Park — — — — — — 3 — 5 6 — —

Wyken Slough — — — 4 4 2 5 6 — — — — Warks Pairs bred at Dosthill (two) and Whitacre Heath. Probably bred at Alvecote. Numbers elsewhere were on the low side: maxima of ten at Alvecote, 14 at Chesterton, 29 at Dosthill and nine at Draycote. Worcs Broods reported at Bishampton Vale Pool, Hurcott Pool, Purshall Green, Upton Warren, Westwood and Wilden. Pairs also in the breeding season at Church Lench and Oakley. Staffs Breeding pairs at Rocester, Betley Mere (three), Tixall (two), and Kingswood. Smaller numbers noted at: Chillington, Croxall, Doxey, Elford, Holly bush, Pendeford Mill NR, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid Pairs bred at Berkswell Hall, Clayhanger (two), Fens pools (two, the first breeding record here) and Sandwell Valley. Displaying birds were reported from Cornets End, Queslett NP, St. Margaret's Pools, Stoke Floods (up to four pairs), Stubber's Green, Sutton Park and Wyken Slough. Highest count was 13 at Berkswell on March 27. 1991 Addendum Warks 70 at Draycote during a cold spell on January 20 was a good total for that water.

Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus Warks Two in a year is exceptional. An adult flew low over Kingsbury WP on June 25 LAD and one was watched near llmington on August 29 PW. Still a very rare find, these are the first regional records since 1990.

Red Kite Milvus milvus Six birds in one year was almost as good as the record seven in 1988, although it is always difficult to decide how many birds are involved. The pre- sence of two overwintering birds were particularly noteworthy. We can expect records to go on increasing in line with the expanding Welsh population to the west and the introduced breeding nucleus to the south-east. All observers should try to make notes on any wing-tags the birds may possess as many 69

wild birds now have them. Incidentally, the shape of the tag indicates the origin of the bird. Welsh birds have square-ended tags, while the introduced populations have pointed ends in England and notched ends in Scotland. Warks A bird, thought to be immature, caused resident Buzzards to get airborne at one site on August 6 (locality and observer details withheld by request). One was seen in the Draycote/Thurlaston area on November 27 RBR and then over Brandon next day PW. It was present again in the former area on December 12 TW, 16 RCM and 26 RCM et al. and was still apparently in the district at the end of the year. Incredibly it was thought to roost very close to, if not on, a motorway embankment. Worcs On April 13 one was seen drifting northwards mobbed by a crow over Barnards Green, Malvern MAW. At Ockridge Wood, one was seen with a red/white wing-tag on each wing on October 21 and 22 SMW. Staffs One on the Sheepwalks, Enville from November 28 to December 4 ESC, SAR, ICW, and again on December 28 BMM. W Mid One passed over the county on June 29, first located over Kingstanding at 19.10 hrs JEF, it drifted over Walmley at 19.30 perJEF, before passing over Olton at approximately 19.40 PD. 1992 Addendum Warks One which flew high over Whitacre Heath village and Ladywalk, and then off towards Coleshill on July 1 GJJ was the first county record since one at Shustoke on August 22 1975. Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Increasing records correspond with the expanding British breeding population.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 4 15 23 19 32 Warks A female at Dosthill on April 25 flew straight through PFA, SLC. A juvenile seen at Kingsbury on August 15 probably roosted there SMH et al.,while an immature at Draycote on October 9 ICW was the first record for this month in the region since 1977. Worcs An immature female was seen at Beckford on June 4 GHP, SMW. A juvenile was at Upton Warren on August 15 BAM. An immature female was at Over- bury August 28 RG, and an immature bird hunted for two hours at Cookley on August 30 BW. Staffs An immature flew high to the west at Westport on September 4 WJL 1992 Addendum Staffs An immature at Belvide on May 6 SN Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A continuing improvement in the five-year totals, helped by regular wintering birds on the North Staffs Moors in recent years.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 19 27 18 23 38 70

Warks Single ringtails were recorded at Lighthorne on January 30 NP, at a site in the west of the county on April 24 observer details withheld, at Draycote on October 9 KLMM, flC/Wand at Brandon on December 5 PW. Four in one.year was exceptional. Worcs A male was seen being mobbed by a flock of crows at Crossway Green on November 17 MDS. Staffs On the moors, a male and a ringtail roosted at Swallow Moss throughout January and February, with occasional sightings to April 6 several observers. In the autumn period, the only records received from this area were of a wing- tagged ringtail on September 5 LS and 30 KL and a male roosting from November 7 to 28 NC et at. Elsewhere on the moors, a ringtail at Boarsgrove on March 30 AL and a male at Morridge on March 28 AGJ were possibly the same birds seen at Swallow Moss. A male was seen west of Gnosall on Feb- ruary 2 JPS, while ringtails were at Tittesworth from August 12 to 13 PAW, Doxey on November 13 MDBo and on Cannock Chase from November 27 to December 17 NC et at. Harrier sp. Worcs A ringtail, probably Montagu's, was seen briefly at Brookside Farm, Ribbes- ford on June 6 SC.

Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Worcs Two pairs successfully reared at least six young at different sites. At least three other pairs noted in or near suitable breeding habitat during the breed- ing season. A male was chasing thrushes and crows near Doverdale on February 7 JHS, one flew alongside Sugarloaf Hill, Malverns on April 19 PGG, a male was soaring over Midsummer Hill on May 24 SMW and a juvenile was at Wilden on September 19 IRM. Staffs All site names omitted due to continued persecution of this species. In the north of the county, a pair bred at one site, with birds noted at five others. Display was also reported from a site in the centre of the county. 1992 Addendum Warks An immature male, possibly of captive origin, was seen at Coombe on May 6 JJB. It was allegedly seen again later in the month by other observers but no records have been submitted.

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Warks Present in increasing numbers. Probable or definite breeding at over 25 sites. Worcs Recorded at 16 locations during the breeding season and at 21 sites out- side that time. A female was seen "weaving through traffic" in Evesham on March 24. On August 29 four were seen together on a thermal over Little Comberton. Staffs Breeding pairs noted at Blithfield, Chillington (three), Coombes Valley (three pairs raised ten young), Elford (two) and Tittesworth. A large number of non- breeding records were received from throughout the county. Three prey species identified in records were Blackbird, Redwing and Starling. W Mid Breeding confirmed from seven sites, with probable breeding at a further seven localities. Reported from a further 33 locations, with a spread of 71

records throughout the year. Prey species included Blackbird, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Lesser Black-backed Gull (a chick taken from Birmingham City Centre in late July!) and Pied Wagtail. At least seven different individuals were identified at Wyken Slough during the autumn.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo This fine bird is continuing to do well and colonise new areas. Warks Definitely bred in at least one site, with birds present in summer at five others. There was an increase in records during autumn and winter, with up to five together in 13 widely spaced localities. Worcs Records of birds continue to increase. Reported from 38 widespread locali- ties during the breeding season and at 36 sites at other times of year. Five were seen together over Midsummer Hill on May 24. Staffs A continued increase in records received may reflect a healthier status in the county. Up to eight pairs bred in six distinct areas. Birds were seen at Belvide in every month except July, with a peak count of five on September 25. The traditional stronghold near Enville produced eight on October 1. Post-breed- ing records from less usual sites included singles at Burntwood on August 25, Westport on September 11 and Curborough on October 10. W Mid A good spread of records, becoming increasingly recorded. One pair bred in the county raising two young. Others recorded at: Bartley on May 5; over Broad Street (central Birmingham) on September 6; Brownhills on April 15; Cheswick Green on September 11; Cornets End on May 11, September 5 (two) and October 23; near Earlswood on September 28 and October 3; Fens Pools on March 9, May 10, August 30, November 25. 30 and December 21; Hayhead Wood on April 24; near Hockley Heath on January 19; Kingstanding on September 7; Kingswinford on March 25; Queslett NP on August 30; Sandwell Valley on 15 dates between April 19 and October 30; Valley Park on August 23 and September 18; Wolvertiampton town centre on August 13 and finally, Wyken Slough on October 10.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus A huge rise in the five-year totals reflects the current boom in breeding pairs in Scotland.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 23 28 22 28 62 Warks Singles briefly at Combrook on April 5 NP and Dosthill on May 29 JAA. One stayed at Packington from September 23 to October 5 NPB et al. Worcs One flew over Larford on April 2 GC. At Upton Warren single birds were seen on May 13 DJ, JTB, 25 AGS and September 14 AGS. At Westwood one paused briefly on May 16 SMW. Staffs Single birds were at Blithfield on March 25 78, April 21 ESC and from July 26 to August 13 ESC et al.

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus All breeding pairs need to be reported, so we can get a clearer picture of this 72

Kestrel (Terry Parker)

bird's current status. Warks Possibly less common now than Sparrowhawk, certainly fewer records were received. Breeding recorded at Alvecote, Coombe, Corley Moor, Kingsbury, Kites Hardwick and Spernall Park. Worcs Bred at Bittell and Wilden. Pairs were also seen at Castlemorton Common, The Gullet, Old Hills, Tibberton and Timberhonger. Recorded at a further 20 sites during the year. Staffs Under-recorded, with only 16 records received. Breeding suspected or proved at: Acton Trussell, Belvide (three pairs), Coombes Valley, in a garden at Fazeley (Tamworth), Pendeford Mill NR and Warwickshire Moor. W Mid Breeding records came from Bartley, Birmingham city centre, Coventry city centre, Foleshill gasworks (Coventry) and Sandwell Valley. One territory reported from the Mons Hill CBC site, while breeding was thought to have taken place at Pype Hayes GC. Reported from a further 15 sites. 73

Merlin Falco columbarius The phenominal increase in records in recent years may well be due to a combination of increased observer coverage and a rise in the number of Scandinavian birds spending the winter in England. Sightings are now so frequent, it is almost impossible to estimate how many birds are involved in these records, as individuals may wander over large areas.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 44 74 93 111 202 Warks The male and female/immature which were present in the Wishaw area at the end of 1992 had become a little more elusive in the new year. The male was not seen until January 30 PDH and then again on February 4 BLK. The female-type was a little more regular and gave good views on January 14 BLK and again on February 11 NPB, 13 BLK and 26 PDH. A different bird, thought to be an immature male, was seen on March 14 BLK. Elsewhere, a female-type was at Chesterton on March 3 and April 3 NP, with another at Brandon also on March 3 JJB. A male at Dosthill on September 27 PC was the first of the autumn, but the only other record from the north of the county was of a female/immature at Wishaw on October 2 PDH. Further south, there were single female/immature birds at Wellesbourne Airfield on October 10 SMH, Grandborough on 22 JJB, Chesterton on 27 JJB and finally, Draycote on November 15 JJB and December 5 RCM. Worcs At Throckmorton, one was seen on January 31 WFP and a male was there on February 7 GHP. At Bredon's Hardwick, males were seen on February 6 GHP and March 11 SJH, a female/immature on February 6 CJL and an immature male on 20 GHP. Females were seen on February 21 at Upton Warren SC and Holt GP RM, and on April 9 at Claines SMW. During the autumn, females were seen at Upton Warren on October 28 MH, November 7 AW and December 30 GG. One was at on November 11 MH, while on 21 a female flew over the M5 at Lydiate Ash SMW and a male was seen attempting to catch a Meadow Pipit at Kempsey PJB. Staffs On the moors, recorded throughout the year with breeding pairs at two sites. One pair was robbed but the other raised four young. Elsewhere a male was at Kingswood from January 3 to February 26 MDJ, ICW, MY, and a female on March 14 ICW. At Whitemoor Hay, one on April 2 DJA was probably the same bird that was seen at Elford on April 3 DJA. A female was near Fauld Industrial Estate on January 5 IMc and a male was at Rolleston-on-Dove on February 14 TB. Later in the year, a male was at Whitemoor Hay on December 14 RJJ. W Mid All females/immatures unless otherwise stated. Birds were in the favoured Wiggins Hill/Wishaw area from 1992, although the only submitted records concern a male here on February 13 TCH and 21 TD, TCH. Singles flew over Netherton Hill on January 6 CJTand Sandwell Valley on April 9 JEF, TCH. In the autumn, one at Park Lime Pits on October 6 AKD, a female at Fens Pools on October 7 SLH, an adult male at Wyken Slough on October 20 JJB and one at Queslett NP on December 27 JJB. 74

1986 Addenda W Mid A female/immature at Plants Brook Res. on November 27 JJB, with a male at on December 31 JJB. 1990 Addendum Warks A female/immature at Ryton-on-Dunsmore on October 28 JJB. 1992 Addenda Staffs Single females at Belvide on April 20 and August 14 SN.

Hobby Falco subbuteo Average: April 25 (26) to October 1 (29) Exceptionally early birds were at Kingsbury on April 4 and Uraycote on / but most did not start reappearing until the last week in that month. Late birds were seen at Arley (Warks) on October 2 and Middleton on 10. Warks At least five pairs probably bred in the north of the county. Of these, two were successful while in two more cases the eggs or young were deserted. Only one possible breeding site was reported from the south, where it is presum- ably under-recorded. Away from these sites there were records on eight dates at Draycote, 17 dates at Kingsbury and from 16 other localities. At Brandon there were two adults and two first-summers hunting dragonflies for about three weeks from June 25. Worcs Birds were frequently seen at Upton Warren between April 29 and September 23, while one or two were often seen at Cookley from July 10 to September 19. Regular mid-summer records were also received from Abberton, Castle- morion Common, Eckington, Grimley and Westwood, where four were pre- sent on September 8. Elsewhere reported from 34 widely scattered sites during the summer months. Staffs Well recorded, especially from the moors and around the major reservoirs. However, only three pairs were recorded as definitely breeding. At one site, three well-grown juveniles were seen at the nest site on August 17. A bird was seen in the company of a male Merlin near Swallow Moss on May 3 and one was chasing a Kestrel at Rudyard on August 16. W Mid A pair which had failed to nest successfully, spent a few days in the east of the county in early September. Reported between April 23 and September 27 at: Binley, Bluebell Park (Dudley), Fens Pools (nine dates), Frankley, Great Barr, Kingstanding, Netherton Hill, Netherton Res., Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley (six dates), Sheepwash UP, Stourbridge (two dates), Valley Park (three dates), Woodshires Green (three dates) and Wyken Slough (two dates).

Peregrine Falco peregrinus The presence of a breeding pair in Staffs had long been hoped for and finally came to fruition in 1992, although not confirmed at the time. The last Regional record was back in 1892 at Warwick Castle. The five-year totals show an even greater increase than Merlin and the sheer numbers of records now make calculating annual figures extremely difficult.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 14 12 17 79 291 75

Warks It is difficult to believe that as recently as 1989 there was a blank year! From 1990 there have been numerous records but it will be interesting to see how the demolition of Hams Hall power station affects its future status. There was a continuous presence there by one or two birds almost throughout the year, with almost daily records during January and February and again from May to October. It was not known whether more than two individuals were involved in these records BLK et al. Records from Curdworth and Wishaw on February 13 BLK and 14 GIG probably involved the Hams Hall birds, as did those at Lea Marston on January 9 PC, Kingsbury on March 9 PC and Dosthill on April 30 PC. Disappointingly only one record came from Judkin's Quarry, on June 20 SDN. At Draycote, there was an immature on February 21 REH, with another on August 23 RCM and 29 PDH, October 9 PC, REH, November 26 TW and 28 REH, PDH, and finally on December 11 DJS and 24 REH. An adult was seen in Rugby on November 7 DM. A bird over Close Wood on December 19 SMH and at nearby Packington on 26 NPB, was possibly the same as one hunting from pylons at Shustoke from 27 to 29 SMH. Worcs Recorded most frequently at: Bredon's Hardwick, where seen in April, May, July to September and December; the Malvern Hills, where noted at various sites between January and May and again from October to December; Throckmorton Tip, with two or three separate individuals during January and December; and Upton Warren, where up to three different birds were reported on several dates between July and the end of the year, with two together on September 29. Further records received from Drayton on January 6, Longdon Marsh on 31 (two), Grimley on February 8 (two), Little Comberton on March 13, Bishampton Vale Pool on April 9 and 11, Tlddesley Wood on June 9, Strensham on 29, Timberhonger on August 26, Bittell on 28, Abberton and Tibberton on 29, Westwood on September 12, Queenhill on 14 and Timberhonger again on December 31. Staffs A pair bred at one site in the county for the second year running. On June 13 a dead pigeon was passed in mid-air by the male to the female who then took it to a large juvenile; at the same time another juvenile was seen in flight. A juvenile was still present there on August 22. At Belvide recorded on the following number of days per month:-

J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0

1 0 1 3 2 0 0 8 4 2 1 1 Probably seven different birds visited the site during August. Prey items seen included an adult Lapwing on August 3 and a nesting Moorhen on August 12. At Blithfield, singles recorded on January 6 ESC, February 21 WJL, an adult on July 25 REH and 26 ESC, an immature on August 5 WJL, an adult male on August 29 TCH, SGAH and single immatures on November 14 MJI and December 19 ESC. On the moors, an adult at Swallow Moss on February 7 AJB, PM and one on December 5 GKN. An adult was on the Roaches on July 4 JJB and a female at Knotbury FCG. Elsewhere, birds were seen at Aqualate, a male on October 17 FCG, with singles on 26 and December 7 RR perFCG, Bearstone Mill, an adult male on December 13 WJL; Branston GP, 76

an immature female on January 17 ICW, MY; Chillington, an adult male on April 18 KA; Curborough, on December 12 RJJ; and Elford, an adult on April 3, with an adult male on September 19 DJA. Singles were at Elmhurst on December 6 RRJ and Hanley on January 5 BDC, LC, with immatures at Pendeford Mill NR on September 17 JVG, Rudyard on September 8 AB, Rugeley Power Station on April 15 DJA and Sandon Bank on January 5 MDBo. Sheepwalks had an adult male on January 16 ICW, MY and finally, one was at Whitemoor Hay on December 14 RJJ. W Mid A good series of records, particularly from Fens Pools. An adult female was in the Wishaw area on January 16 PDH. Singles were at Edgbaston Park on February 18 and December 31 AC. At Fens Pools, what was possibly the same female/immature was seen on February 25 SE, BMM, 26 SE, March 15 SE, 18 SE, BMM, April 20 SE and June. 27 SE. An adult flew over Netherton Hill on July 30 CJT, with another over Valley Park on October 24 KMC.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus See The Red Grouse in Staffordshire for details about the current status. Staffs Only seven record slips received. The highest numbers seen were 23 at Gun Hill on October 3 and 22 at Back Forest on October 16, which included a single pack of 13. On the Roaches, packs of 15 on August 8 and 12 on October 3 were recorded.

Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix Staffs All records refer to the well organised lekking site at Swallow Moss. Higher numbers of blackcock were seen on average this year, with maximum counts of 11 on January 7 and 12 on April 12. The only records of greyhens, which tend to be more secretive, were on January 3 and May 3. However, evidence of successful breeding came with sightings of a pair with three chicks on May 3, a group of five juveniles on August 21 and a juvenile male on September 29.

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Warks Very few records. Bred at Hams Hall and Water Orton SF. The best coveys were 11 at Draycote and 20 at Radway. Worcs Noted at 13 widespread localities. The largest coveys recorded were 20 at Aston Mill Pit on January 3 and ten at Holt on February 13. Staffs Three pairs bred at Crossplains, and 14 were seen near Enville on November 7. No other records of significance received. W Mid Appears to be fairly common in the Wishaw/Wiggins Hill area, but elsewhere in the county this species is now quite scarce. A pair in the Sheepwash UP/ Tividale area from February to June were not recorded subsequently. Birds have been in this area for at least ten years but recent habitat changes have brought about their extinction. Two were in the Netherton Hill area from March to July, whilst two were in Valley Park on May 30 (another site where they bred annually until the late '80's). Singles were in Sandwell Valley on April 15, Cradley Heath on April 24 (in the train station car park!) and Fens Pools on October 5. 77

Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Warks There were a few more breeding season records this year with birds at: Alcester, Barford, Botts Green, Bulkington (three pairs), Charlecote, Ches- terton, Coombe, Copston Magna, Oosthill (two pairs), Draycote, Gaydon, Grandborough, Lower Radbourne, Marlcliff, Thuriaston and Withybrook. The best coveys were 12 at Dosthill and 11 at Withybrook. Worcs Reported from 11 localities around the county. The largest covey was 12 at Aston Mill Pit on August 29 where they are reared and released for shooting. Staffs No breeding records received. The largest covey was 16 at Whitemoor Hay on November 24, while coveys of 12 were at Warwickshire Moor on January 5, Pendeford Mill NR on August 27 and Chasewater on September 15. W Mid Even scarcer than the previous species! Probably bred successfully at Park Lime Pits, where a covey of four were noted in early September. One near Anchor Meadow, Aldridge on February 5. Three were near Hayhead Wood on February 14, with two in the same area on April 9, and a pair reported from Cornets End on May 23.

Quail Coturnix coturnix Average: May 5 (7) to September 6 (4) The presence of a possible wintering bird was interesting. Warks Single calling males were heard at Botts Green on May 16 SDN, KWi, at Bulkington during early June per JJB, Alcester on July 7 JJB, Maxstoke from July 17 to 19 BLK, with possibly the same near Shawbury on 22 and 25 BLK. A late bird at Fenny Compton on September 24 BOS, may have been on passage. Worcs The first blank year since 1977. Staffs One calling at Fradley Airfield on June 26 NAP. A pair at Kings Bromley during June per FCG and one heard calling at Trysull from July 2 to August 1 BMM, GCW, TD. A very late bird was seen briefly at Whitemoor Hay on December 11 MY.

Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Warks Remains common and widespread. Worcs No change in status reported. Staffs No records of significance received. W Mid A brood of very small chicks was seen at Berkswell in July, while calling birds were reported from Frankley, Knowle, Meriden (still fairly common in this area), Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Wishaw/Wiggins Hill area. One at Hampton-in-Arden on March 19, with single females in Valley Park on January 13 and April 5.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Warks Pairs probably bred at Alvecote, Brandon (four) and Coombe (two). Also seen in the breeding season at Ladywalk. During the winter months reported from Brandon (peaks of seven on February 5 and five in December), Chesterton, Compton Verney, Coombe (max. seven on November 25), Coton, Draycote (max. three on November 9), Ladywalk (max. seven on November 6, with five 78

in December), Middleton and New Waters. Worcs A pair bred successfully at Upton Warren. Early in the year, up to three were reported at Oakley, Upton Warren, Westmancote and Westwood. In autumn, birds were recorded at Abberton, Bittell, Castlemorton Common, Island Coppice and Wilden, with again three present at both Oakley and Upton Warren. Staffs The only evidence of breeding came from Doxey, where a juvenile was seen on September 6. Also seen at Doxey in March, October and November. Up to two showed on three dates in October at Chillington Pool. Three were at Astonfields in Stafford on February 7. Also reported from Belvide, Betley Mere, Blithfield, Brancote, Branston WP, Longdon and Tittesworth (two on November 7). W Mid In the first winter period, birds were reported from Fens Pools, Mushroom Green Marsh (two), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park and Wyken Slough (two). One appeared in Sandwell Valley in early August, with up to two regularly here from October to December. Otherwise few in the second winter period, with records from Mushroom Green Marsh (two), Sheepwash UP (two) and Wyken Slough. 1986 Addendum W Mid A pair bred at Clayhanger.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana The first Regional records since 1989. Staffs Heard calling in one area during the nights of May 16 and 18 AL, SN. One showed well at Doxey from August 21 to September 19 MT et al, with a second bird there on September 1 and 5 JF, SH.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Warks Four pairs bred at Alvecote and 18 at Coombe. The largest count of the year was 66 at Coombe on February 25. Worcs No change in breeding status reported. Autumn maxima of 31 at Mill Pond, 30 at Strensham, 28 at Upton Warren and 25 at Westwood. Staffs Breeding recorded from the R. Anker, Ashwood, Belvide (two pairs), Kettle- brook Park (two pairs), Pendeford Mill NR and Warwickshire Moor. One unfortunate bird built a nest in an old upturned umbrella only to be killed by a Peregrine. Highest counts received were 30 on the canal at Ashwood on July 24, 22 at Kettlebrook Park on January 9 and 15 at Hollybush on March 6. W Mid Breeding birds reported from: Bartley, Berkswell Hall, Bradnock's Marsh, Cornets End, Hayhead Wood, in Knowle, the at Longford, Marston Green, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and along the Staffs and Worcs canal in Valley Park. At Wyken Slough five pairs bred, a decline from eight in 1992, possibly caused by competition with an expand- ing Coot population at this site. Notable concentrations included 21 at Cornets End in January, 30 at Wyken Slough in February, 15 on Longmoor Pool in Sutton Park in August and 42 along the Staffs and Worcs canal in September. 79

Coot Fulica atra Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Alvecote 51 39 36 — — — 56 65 163 148 186 82 Coton 638 617 284 947 659 908 Draycote 527 290 160 110 65 50 65 148 240 450 550 700 Kingsbury area 219 144 81 — — 299 333 — 461 626

Bishampton Vale Pool — — — 3 4 4 53 — — 1 — Bittell — 7 12 — 4 — 7 12 —' — 13 10 Larford 97 24 50 Pirton 90 — — — — — — — — — 200 230 Upton Warren 10 9 20 32 — — 8 22 — — 3 10

Westwood 150 32 — 100 228 220 120 80

Aqualate 2 16 19 8 10 5 1 5 1 — 1 Belvide 297 — 149 — 104 — 190 388 500 7 41 42 Blithfield 116 214 191 — — — 380 590 642 44 111 58 Chasewater 679 330 207 112 65 — 204 306 687 850 967 902 Westport 184 103 82 28 38 48 48 98 135 188 234 245

Comets End 53 43 31 — — 42 68 80 121 110 119 60 Wyken Slough 65 40 32 34 26 26 35 66 78 61 63 68 Warks A common breeding bird at most waters. Autumn counts were well down at Brandon. However this was not noted elsewhere, indeed the December count at Draycote was the best here since November 1979. Worcs Breeding reported from Ashmoor Common, Crutch Hill, Hadley Poplars, Kempsey Pool, PurshaN, Ripple, Spetchley, Timberhonger, Upton Warren, Westwood (12 broods) and Wilden. Staffs Pairs bred at Belvide (two), Blithfield, Kettlebrook (five) and Westport (five, 18 young reared). Eggs were broken to "control overcrowding" at Hollybush. W Mid Pairs bred at Berkswell Hall, Bradnock's Marsh, Cornets End (at least five), Fens Pools (a healthy 21), Fowlers Park, Leasowes Park, Park Lime Pits (three), Sandwell Valley (at least 15), Sutton Park, along the Birmingham canal in Wolverhampton and at Wyken Slough (13). Other notable counts included 186 in Sandwell Valley in December and 215 at Fens Pools in the second winter period.

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus A good year for breeding pairs, with three pairs maintained in Staffs, the first successful record in Warks and the first ever attempt in Worcs. Warks After annual failed nesting attempts since 1989, a pair successfully raised two young at a site in the north of the county. Another pair were present dur- ing the breeding season at a second site. There were few other records which did not stem from this small breeding population. The maximum at Draycote, where most records were of one or two, was six on August 21. Three on March 29 was the best count at Alvecote, while there were two at Brandon on April 7. Worcs An unsuccessful breeding attempt was made at Bredon's Hardwick. Two 80

birds returned to this site on February 18 and 19, one then remaining until April 15 when it paired with a second bird. The nest was apparently predated by a Herring Gull on May 16. I hree adults were later seen at this locality on May 24 and June 29. Elsewhere, two visited Kempsey Upper Ham on January 3, six rested on one of the platforms at Westwood on January 30, with one again the next day and a further bird there on February 12. Other singles were seen at Wilden on February 17 and Upton Warren on March 7.

Oystercatcher (John Teasdalel

Staffs Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Barton 1 3 3 2 2 3 2 1 — - — — Belvide 1 — — 1 2 2 1 1 1 — 1 — Blithfield — — 3 2 8 1 3 1 1 _ _ _ Branston — 2 6 4 3 4 5 Croxall — 2 4 4- 3 2 Elford — 3 9 9 — 5 8

Tlttesworth — — 1 — 2 2 2 Successful breeding at Barton, Branston (one young) and Elford (also one young). W Mid A party of undetermined size flew roughly north over Oldbury, calling loudly, at 2240 hours on February 23. Singles were reported from Sheepwash UP on Mav 3, Cornets End on May 15 and Stubber's Green on August 15. 1992 Addendum W. Mid One at Wyken Slough on December 31. 81

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Average: March 21 (29) to October 2 (29) The first of the spring was an early bird at Brandon on March 11. The next was at Chasewater on 13, with others from the 19 and a major influx on 24. The latest autumn record came from Draycote on October 10. Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A S O

Bishamplon Vale Pool 1 3 1 — — — — — Bittell — 1 1 — 2 — — — Bredon's Hardwick 5 7 S — — — — — Grimley — — 1 1 — — — — Kinsham — 2 — 1 — — — — Lower Moor 3 2 1 1 — — — — Ryall GP — — — — 3 — 1 — Strensham — — 4 3 1 — — — Upton Warren 2 6 B 16 13 3 1 —

Wilden — 1 2 5 — — — —

Barton 1 2 4 6 6 - 4 3 _ Belvide 4 6 7 10 21 9 5 — Blilhfield 3 3 1 2 18 8 1 1 Branston 2 7 — — 10 3 — Chasewater 2 2 5 — 1 3 — — Elford 2 2 4 4 — — — Rudyard — 2 4 1 3 3 — Titlesworth 3 3 4 7 6 1 1 — Westport — 1 1 — 1 — — —

Other sites (seven) 2 10 6 6 12 2 — —

Sandwell Valley 4 4 4 6 3 — —• —

Sheepwash UP 1 3 4 5 4 1 — — Warks Bred at Brandon, Draycote, the Kingsbury area (up to five pairs) and possibly at Frog Hall, Hams Hall, Jubilee Pools, Lawford Heath and The Somers. Spring passage at Kingsbury peaked at 22 on May 4, with up to 16 in March and 14 in April. On return passage Draycote was the most favoured, with the best counts being 20 on. July 1 and ten on 18. Smaller numbers were seen at many sites. Worcs At least two pairs attempted to breed at Bredon's Hardwick, while a pair hatched at least one young at Ryall GP. Three pairs nested at Upton Warren but only one juvenile fledged and a pair at Wilden hatched three young. Staffs Successful breeding reported from: Alrewas, three pairs; Barton, no informa- tion on how many pairs, but three juveniles; Belvide, three pairs reared a total of four young; Blithfield, again no information on how many pairs, but six young reported; Doxey, a pair reared one young; Elford; Meaford Power Station, a pair bred on the rubble of the old cooling towers; Rudyard, a pair produced one young; Tittesworth, two pairs reared three young. W Mid Two pairs attempted to breed at Sandwell Valley but both were unsuccessful. One pair also nested at Sheepwash UP but the outcome was unknown. Else- where, reports came from Netherton Hill on March 23, Springvale, Bilston in April (two), Stubber's Green in April (two), Bartley in May (two), Cornets End (peak of five on May 9) and Fens Pools on May 5. 82

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Draycote 1 2 6 5 10 2 10 33 37 14 1 —

Kingsbury area 2 3 5 7 16 4 1 6 5 — — —

Bittell — — — — — — 2 3 — — — Bredon's Hardwick — — 1 2 4 — — 1 — — — — Upton Wanen — — 1 2 13 9 — 6 — — — —

Other Sites (six) — — 1 — 1 — 2 2 1 — —

Barlon — 4 A 8 10 7 7 3 2 — Belvide — — 1 2 24 7 10 41 16 2 — — Blilhlield — — 1 0 16 2 5 116 30 16 — — Branston — — 12 12 — — 6 5 2 — — — Chasewater — — 2 1 5 — — — 7 1 — — Ellord — — 6 3 — 2 — 2 — — — —

Other sites (seven) — — 5 4 5 — 10 1 4 — — —

Warks A pair hatched two young at Draycote, but they were not thought to have survived. Three pairs may have bred at another site, but success was unlikely due to a combination of flooding and egg-collectors. Nine at Brandon on May 10 was a good record from there nowadays. Other migrants occurred at Frog Hall, Ladywalk and Jubilee Pools. Worcs One was at Upton Warren on January 28. The peak count for the year was 13 at this site on May 12. Staffs Three pairs nested at Barton but only one young was fledged. Two pairs also nested at Croxall but both failed. At Blithfield, 55 birds on the ground and two large parties flying north-west with Turnstones, totalled 116 on August 22. Belvide had an estimated 215 birds during the year. W Mid Reported at the following sites:- Sandwell Valley on March 7 to 11, May 17 to 24 and July 23; Sheepwash UP on April 18 to 20 and April 30 to May 1; Fens Pools on May 10 (five); Wyndley Pool in Sutton Park on May 13, and Cornets End on May 15.

Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus One of the year's highlights, this bird was the twelfth for the Region but only the first since 1983. Warks A superb male was present at Draycote on May 14 and 15 MDB, GJS et at. This was the fifth record for the county, but the first since May 3 1980 when one was seen at Lea Marston.

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus The best ever series of records. Warks One was with Golden Plovers at Wellesbourne Airfield on October 3 PFA et al. There were also unconfirmed records from here for several days after- wards. This was a good find for the observer, who also took the credit for the last one in the county, at the same site during the 1988/89 winter. Worcs An unprecedented (or previously undetected) passage of up to 14 birds on 83

the southern slopes of Bredon Hill took place in early May. A female was found on May 3, with two females here the next day. A male was present during May 5 and was joined briefly by a trip of a further eight birds that evening. Finally, a pair were seen here on May 6 GHP, WRHP, PFS, SMW. In the autumn a lone bird flew south calling over Sugarloaf, Malvern Hills on October 9 MW, SMW. These are the first County records since 1985. Staffs A trip of five birds on the former glider field at Morridge from May 8 to 9 ICW, MYet al. This is the fourth consecutive year that birds have been found in this area on spring passage.

Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Average: August 11 (46) to April 27 (47) The last in spring was at Bredon Hill on May 3, while the first returning bird was at Upton Warren on August 8. Monthly maxima at main sites:-

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Alvecole area — 300 1000 Bramcole — — — — — — — — — — 900 Church Lawford/Draycole 3000 750 300 9 — — — 100 — 500 550 750 Marslon/Kirtgsbury 120 — 100 1 60 200 600 WellnshnnmR BOO 4000 — 2000

Bredon's Hardwick 65 120 700 194 — — — — — — 50 Lower Moor — — — — — — — — — — 300 1050 Throckmorton area 25 — — — — — — — 1 50 — — Upton Warren 1 7 — 1 2 1 41 —

Hixon Airfield — 200 320 Stafford Common — 2500 300

Hockley Heath 500 500 300 6 Park Lime Pits 30 14 5 2 16 3

Springvale 500 — — 350 — — — — — — — — Warks The October count at Wellesbourne sets a new regional record. Some regular flocks remained uncounted this year. 1000 at Austrey on October 2 was an isolated record, possibly involving the Alvecote flock. Once again late birds were present in rape fields at Kineton, with 17 here on April 29. There must be future optimism here for finding accompanying Dotterels! Worcs Records were received from 13 other localities, with 35 at Doverdale in January, 60 at High Green in February, 30 at Kempsey in November and 40 at Powick Hams in December. Staffs Breeding reported in the Knotbury and Axe Edge area, and possibly at Orchard Common. There were more reports of winter flocks than usual, with records emanating from 35 sites. Counts of over 100 came from: Armitage, 400 in March; Belvide, 100 in January and February; Doxey, 600 in January and December, with 500 in February; Fauld, 160 in December; Fradley, 120 in January; Gailey, 200 in September; Handsacre Flashes, 200 in April; Kings Bromley, 200 in March and 250 in April; Mucklestone, 100 in January; Park Hall CP, 1000 in January and 400 in February; Pendeford Mill NR, 150 in 84

February; Stretton, 250 in October; and Whitemoor Hay, 100 in January. W Mid Elsewhere, 500 at Wishaw Lane, Walmley on February 26, 500 at Minworth on March 21, 60 at Bickenhill on March 25 and 150 north over Wyken Slough on April 16. Fewer reports in the second winter period, with 13 at Bartley on November 20, the largest count. Smaller numbers (between one and four) reported from Fens Pools, Longford, Marston Green, Sandwell Valley and Walsgrave.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Warks A poor year discounting the Dosthill flock. Singles were over Chase Lane on January 3, at Dosthill on May 27 and at Draycote on August 22, September 16 to 19, October 2 and November 13. A flock of ten flew over Dosthill on September 14. Worcs In spring one was at Bredon's Hardwick on May 27, while in autumn two stopped briefly at Bittell on September 13, with a further single there on November 8. Staffs In January, singles were seen at Blithfield and Chasewater on 5 and Westport the following day. A light spring passage commenced in May, with singles at Chasewater on 5 and Belvide on 10, with two at Blithfield on 26. Singles were at Tittesworth on June 5 and Blithfield on 6. Return passage began with one heard at Blithfield on August 6. A mid-August influx there gave a maximum of seven on two dates, this site recording 18 bird days up to November 27. Belvide also had a good series of records from September 13 to October 20. A large influx on September 14 produced 38 at Belvide and 12 at Blithfield. Singles recorded elsewhere at Aqualate on August 14, Chasewater on September 15 and Westport on October 2. Last recorded at Belvide on November 28. W Mid One at Bartley on January 3.

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N O

Baginton 400 500 - — - — - - 900 — — Bramcote 1000 Draycote area 2000;250 0 500 250 — — 120 300 700 1200 1 500 2500

Kingsbury area 500 615 - - - - - 395 - - 2000

Bredon's Hardwick 350 500 600 Holt 700 — 400 Longdon Marsh 175 1000 Strensham — - 16 — 49 go 130 — — — —

Upton Warren 1500 1500 — - - 200 800 820 - - - -

Barton 200 1500 7 1000 950 1000 Belvide — — — — — — 900 — 1400 300 — 400 Blithfield — — — — — 8 300 260 415 — — Chasewater 80 28 6 — — — 18 181 180 98 160 177 Doxey 1017 600 - — — — 47 — 60 500 1200 850

Elford — 250 — 2 2 — 154 — 460 — — — 85

Warks Breeding pairs at Alvecote (two), Bedworth Woodlands (two), Brandon (four), Chesterton (three), Coombe (six), Frog Hall (three) and Packington (four). Other large flocks included two of 1000 strong; at Brailes on February 17 and Oxhill on December 3. Worcs Breeding reported from Aston Mill, Bredon's Hardwick (three pairs), Kinsham, Larford (two), Strensham (two), Timberhonger (two), Upton Warren and Wilden (three). Away from the main sites mentioned in the table, flocks of 450 at Orleton, 800 at Peopleton and 600 at were recorded in January and 1000 at Claines in February. In autumn there were 500 at Bittell in November and 2000 at both Grimley and Lower Moor in December. Staffs Pairs bred at: Aqualate (seven), Barton, Belvide area (ten), Crossplains, Croxall, Dosthill, Drayton Bassett, Elford (three), Fradley (five) and Hamstall Ridware. The Lowland Wet Meadow Survey covering the rivers Penk, Sow, Trent and Doley Common found 56 pairs. W Mid Two pairs bred at Keresley and one pair probably bred near Park Lime Pits. Numbers remained stable at Sandwell Valley where between 10 and 15 pairs bred, and Sheepwash UP where three pairs reared three young. Two birds were seen displaying at Stubber's Green on March 8 and one pair bred at Tividale. Flocks during the first winter period included 450 at Pedmore on January 14, 200 at Stubber's .Green on February 1 and 105 at Sheepwash UP on 10. Post-breeding flocks comprised 100 at Park Lime Pits in August building up to 250 in November, 120 at Stubber's Green on September 2 and 110 over Netherton Hill on November 20. 1992 Addendum Warks The winter flock at Draycote peaked at 4500 on December 13. Knot Calidris canutus Warks The best year since 1990. Singles at Jubilee Pools on January 31 and Dray- cote on February 6 were followed by a typically weak spring passage, with just three at Draycote on May 27. A strong return passage here commenced with one on July 10, six on 20 and singles on 21 and 23. In August, there were singles on 4, 5,10 and 20, with five on 21. One stayed from September 1 to 16 and late birds filtered through on October 14 and November 10. One at Shustoke on September 21 and 22 was a good find for that reservoir. Worcs One visited Bredon's Hardwick on February 13 and remained until 15. In autumn, singles were at Bittell on August 15 and 25, Saxon's Lode on 29 and Upton Warren on November 13. Staffs Two birds at Barton on January 4 pre-empted the spring passage of singles at Westport on April 4, Belvide on May 8 and June 21, and Barton on May 13. A good return passage began at Belvide with one on July 13, where mainly singles were recorded on 14 dates but with a maximum of ten on August 25. Blithfield also produced a good series, with birds on 22 dates from July 28 to December 3 and a maximum of 13 on August 24. The only other record came from Westport on September 8. W Mid A juvenile in Sandwell Valley on September 2 and 3. Sanderling Calidris alba Average passage: April 10 (4) to October 24 (4) 86

Warks Weekly maxima at Draycote:

May Jul Auq T f

1 2 3 (\ l 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 2 1 1 3 1 7 2 3 It is difficult to determine how many individuals were involved in the above records. In spring, between two and seven occurred between May 17 and 30. On return passage birds tend to stay for longer periods making it even more difficult to estimate real numbers, but between nine and 21 could have passed through from July 9 to August 25. The only others were at Dosthill, two on April 21, five on May 13 and 14, with one on 18 and at Kingsbury, one on May 18 and two on September 19. Worcs In spring, singles were seen at Upton Warren on May 9,17 and 25, with three at Bredon's Hardwick on the last date. The only autumn record was of one at Bishampton Vale Pool on July 28. Staffs An unusual record of one at Boarsgrove on January 3 started the year. Spring passage was confined to May, commencing on 10 at both Belvide (one) and Chasewater (two). Records came from: Belvide, one or two on six more dates up to 31; Barton, one on 14; Blithfield, five on 16; Chasewater, singles on 12, 14, 15 and four on 27; Tittesworth, one on 18 and four also on 27. Return passage produced records from Belvide on five dates from July 27 to August 23, with a maximum of five on August 2. Blithfield had one or two on five dates between July 25 and October 2. W Mid Singles were seen at Sheepwash UP on July 22 and Edgbaston Res. on September 17.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Average passage: May 5 (4) to November 7 (4) An unprecedented passage of autumn juveniles made this the best year on record. Warks Weekly maxima at Draycote in autumn:

Jul Aug Sep Oct

3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 — 1 - 1 3 3 12 25 25 20 7 6 4 One at Kingsbury on April 25 was the sole spring record. Unprecedented numbers occurred on autumn passage at Draycote, with the September peak establishing a new county record. Extreme dates here were July 25 and October 22, with the largest numbers present between September 6 and 26 when from nine to 25 were seen daily. The largest counts included 22 on 8, 19 on 10, 25 on 11, 19 on 12, 20 on 19 and 20, with 25 on 22 and 20 on 26. The figures show several different peaks and it is likely that the turnover of individuals was high. In the north of the county there were also more records than usual. Up to three were in the Dosthill/Middleton area from August 28 to September 16, with two more on 27. Singles were at Ladywalk on September 8 and 17 and at Shustoke on 13. 87

Worcs In spring, singles were seen at Bredon's Hardwick and Upton Warren on May 27. A good autumn passage began with one at Grimley on August 28, followed by another at Bittell on 29 and two here next day. Further singles were seen at Bishampton Vale Pool on September 5 and Upton Warren on 6, before two visited Bittell on 7 and 8. Further birds were seen at Bredon's Hardwick (two) and Upton Warren on September 14; Bittell (five), Bredon's Hardwick and Upton Warren (two) ori 15, with additional singles at this last locality on 17, 29 and October 10. Staffs Spring passage produced only a single at Tittesworth on May 27. Autumn passage proved to be the best on record, with the previous record flock of 26 (at Blithfield on September 24 1973) equalled at Belvide on September 13 and beaten at Blithfield, with 38 on September 10, 29 on 12, and 33 on 13. An excellent series of records from nine sites, with the main influx during the first three weeks of September and a second smaller influx from 29 to October 8. Records ranged from July 7 (Belvide) to November 17 (singles at both Blithfield and Belvide). W Mid One in Sandwell Valley on September 15.

Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii Average passage: May 10 (4) to September 6 (2) Four in one year is one ahnve the average. Warks One at Kingsbury north pit from April 24 to 29 GIG, SMH, BLK et al. was the earliest ever recorded in the region. Worcs The first blank year since 1988. Staffs Adults in summer plumage at Belvide from May 9 to 10 SN and Tittesworth from May 13 to 14 AL et al. W Mid One at Sandwell Valley on May 12 and 13 AJW, SMW was the second locality record.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Warks A juvenile found on the same day as a Buff-breasted Sandpiper, remained at Draycote from September 26 to 28 GIG, PDH et al. The last county record was of one found at Draycote just one day earlier in 1988.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Average passage: May 12 (3) to October 19 (4) Generally an excellent year, though numbers were overshadowed by the Little Stint passage. Four spring records were also a good total, usually there are just one or two. Warks Weekly maxima at Draycote in autumn:

September October

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

7 12 5 1 4 2 — — One spring record is fairly typical, at Kingsbury on May 26. Good numbers recorded on autumn passage, but only at Draycote. Birds were seen here 88

from September 4 to October 15, with a peak of 12 on September 10. Numbers declined to only one on 26 and 27, but there was a later peak of four on Octobcr 7. Worcs In spring, birds visited Bredon's Hardwick from May 17 to 19 and Upton Warren on May 27 to 28. In autumn only reported at Bittell, with two on August 28 and September 3, and a single on 8. Staffs The only spring record was a single in almost full breeding plumage at Chasewateron May 11. The autumn passage began on August 23, when four at Belvide and one at Blithfield. At Belvide, passage continued to October 2, with peaks during late August and mid-September and a maximum of 13 on September 13. Blithfield had birds up to October 17, with earlier peaks of ten on August 29 and 11 on September 3. Records also came from Barton GP between September 12 and October 11. Reported elsewhere from Cross- plains, Rudyard (three records, including one on October 17) and Westport. W Mid A juvenile in Sandwell Valley from August 23 to 28, the second locality record.

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima Warks A juvenile was at Draycote on September 4 RCM.

Dunlin Calidris alpina Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Dosthill/Coton 6 1 1 16 25 — 6 7 6 1 — — Draycote 7 1 2 3 7 2 26 19 103 45 12 2

Bittell — 2 3 _ _ Bredon's Hardwick 4 23 35 5 — — 1 1 1 1 1 Throckmorton Tip 2 1 2 2 — — Upton Warren 1 2 1 7 9 — 6 5 5 4 3 — Westwood 1 1 1 1 — Wilden 1 1

Other sites (five) 6 2 — — — 1 — — — 1 —

Barton 19 6 1 9 11 — 4 4 18 8 5 7 Belvide 3 — 1 5 20 2 29 26 32 5 6 5 Blithfield 5 1 1 — 3 — 34 50 72 112 105 25 Chasewater 12 4 — 2 10 — 1 — 7 2 5 7 Tittesworth — — 1 2 3 — 1 1 — — — —

Other sites (nine) 8 S 1 7 8 — 9 15 14 12 2 26

Sandwell Valley _ — 2 6 — _ 2 3 _ 2 2

Sheepwash UP 4 — 1 1 5 — 1 — — 1 1 — Warks The peak of 103 at Draycote on September 9 falls slightly short of the county record (110), set at Draycote in January 1976. Only a few were seen elsewhere, with ten at Shustoke on January 7 being the best record. Worcs Another poor year for both passage and wintering birds. W Mid Also reported from: Springvale, Bilston on April 11; Stubber's Green on April 30, September 2, December 18 (four) and 19 (seven); Fens Pools on May 12 (two), July 19, September 14, October 14 and November 21; Edgbaston Res. on August 31 and September 2, and Bradnock's Marsh on October 23 (12). 89

Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis One of the year's most popular birds. The two previous records were both in September (the classic month for this species), at Chasewater in 1978 and Blithfield in 1980. Warks The first for the county and third for the region occurred at Draycote on Sep- tember 26. A juvenile, it was initially rather elusive, probably coming and going with the local Lapwings. It reappeared on 28 and then became easier to see from October 3 to 9 GIG, PDH, RCM et al.

Buff-breasted Sandpiper (Phil Jones)

Ruff Philomachus pugnax Another wader which enjoyed a spectacular autumn passage. Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A S O N

Dosthill area 5 1 1 6 11

Draycote —. — 1 — 1 26 45 11 4

Bredon's Hardwick 3 2 4 1 _ 1 _ —

Upton Warren 2 8 2 —

Barton 2 7 10 7 Belvide 1 — 1 — — 4 28 3 — Blithfield 1 — — — 6 33 28 9 —

Other sites (seven) 1 2 — — 2 7 14 5 3 Warks The best count at Draycote was 45 on September 11, a county record and only two short of the regional maximum (at Bredon's Hardwick, Worcs in 1987). 40 were still present here next day, while the last bird lingered until November 16. Up to three were also seen on one or two dates at Alvecote, Baginton, Brandon, Ladywalk, Shustoke and Wellesbourne Airfield. 90

Worcs Rather a poor year with a peak of eight at Upton Warren on September 10. Away from the two main sites, singles were seen at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 22, 25 and 26 with two there on 27, while one flew over Kinsham UH on September 10 and two passed through Westwood on 22. Staffs Three birds reported from Crossplains on January 23 were subsequently at Barton on 30. Single birds noted at Branston on February 13 and Blithfield on 26. An estimated 39 birds passed through Belvide, a site record. Late birds included seven at Barton on November 7, two at Crossplains on 23 and singles at both Barton GP and Branston on 30. W Mid At Sandwell Valley, one was seen on August 26, followed by eight on September 3 and three on 8 and 9. On the latter date the number was reduced to two when one of the birds was taken by a Sparrowhawk.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Average: September 27 (52) to April 20 (48) The last in spring were in Sutton Park on April 16, while the first autumn bird was at Fens Pools on September 20. Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N O

Brandon — — 1 1 — — 1 2 Colon — — 2 — — — _ _ _ 1 1 — •osthill 2 4 3 — — 1 2 5 —

Abberton 4 5 2 1 — Bittell 1 1 1 Castlemorton Common 1 2 1 1 Grimley 1 1 Holt 5 2 1 — Uplon Warren — 1 — — 1 2 6 3 Wilden 1 — — 1

Sandwell Valley 2 — 6 — — — — — — 1 2 — Sheepwash UP 1— 1 — — — — — — 12 — Warks Three at Chase Lane on January 31, with two at Draycote on January 3 and one on March 15. Singles at Alvecote on February 21 and March 7, Tysoe on March 8 and Ladywalk on October 23. Worcs One also seen at Oakley in January. The last bird in spring was seen at Wilden on April 9. Present in autumn from September 29 at Upton Warren, with a peak count of six there on November 7. Staffs Reported from ten sites, with extreme dates of April 4 and September 26. A maximum of ten at Chasewater on April 4. W Mid At Sandwell Valley numbers continue on the downward trend. Early in the year, other singles were seen at Fens Pools on January 11 and March 22. An excellent count of 12 came from Sutton Park on March 4, with two still present on April 16. First of the autumn was at Fens Pools on September 20, with another here on October 5. One turned up in an Olton garden on October 13, while two were at Cornets End on 13 and again on November 14. One was at Wyken Slough on 29 and two from December 27 to 31. 91

1992 Addendum Staffs 16 at Pool House Dam, Newcastle on November 11.

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Monthly maxima al main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Dosthill 35 46 6 40 33 65

Draycote 39 70 36 3 — — 3 — 2 16 50

Abberton 38 36 21 — _ — 3 7 Bredon's Hardwick 2t> — 24 — — — — 1 — — — 20 Castlemorton Common 20 45 20 4 5 25 17 Grimley 15 • — 3 12 — — — 3 — — 30 — Holt 40 — 48 14 — — — — — 2 — — Upton Warren 20 16 50 20 3 — 1 13 10 50 75 55 Other Sites (nine) — — 11 7 — — — — 3 19 12 3 Warks Drumming recorded at only two sites, a further reduction on last year. Comment was made specifically from Brandon of a poor year there (max. 15) and this was reflected elsewhere. Maxima included 30 at Alvecote, 25 at Chase Lane, 15 at Coombe, 30 at BAD Kineton, 20 at Ladywalk and six at The Somers. Worcs Continues to decline as a breeding species, with two pairs at Eckington the only site where breeding was thought probable. Upton Warren was again the principle locality for wintering birds with peaks of 75 in November and 55 in December. Staffs Breeding reported from Doxey (six pairs), and along the R. Trent (four pairs). Drumming heard at Doley Common (two), R. Penk and R. Sow (17). Reported during all months from a total of 22 sites. Counts of over 50 came from Doxey on five dates, Blithfield on three dates and Rudyard on five dates. The largest total was 137 at Doxey on December 12. W Mid Displaying birds reported from Hillwood Common Road, Sutton on April 21, with up to five in Sutton Park between April 16 and June 16. In the first winter period, there were January counts of 30 at Sandwell Valley, at least 20 at Stubber's Green and 15 at Wyken Slough, with the same number at the latter site in February. In March, 11 were at Hillfield Park on 6, 19 at Sheepwash UP on 11 and 50 at Minworth SF on 17. In the second winter period, 36 were at Cornets End on October 23, 32 here on November 14 and 42 at Wyken Slough on December 27. Smaller numbers reported during the winter from Bartley, Fens Pools, near Hayhead Wood, Park Lime Pits and Valley Park.

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Warks Roding birds noted at: Atherstone GC, Bentley (three), Close Wood, Oakley Wood (five), Shawbury (three) and Umberslade. Winter records were fairly numerous, with singles at Arley, Draycote and Lea Marston, up to three at Ladywalk and five at Butlers Marston. At Packington, 11 were flushed from a three acre wood- in January. Worcs Roding birds were noted along the Malvems at Wyche Cutting and Gullet 92

Quarry; at Callow Hill (two in June) and Knowles Coppice. A bird was also flushed in Arley Wood during May. In winter, birds were seen at Bittell in January, again here and at Old Storridge Common in February and along the Dick Brook and at Hewell Park Lake in March. Autumn records came from Bredon Hill in October, Oakley in November and both Bittell and Castle- morton Common in December. Staffs Roding birds reported from Cannock Chase area (Brocton Coppice, Cuckoo Bank, Katyn Memorial and Seven Springs), Mill Green and Swallow Moss. Reported from 18 sites during January to June and October to December. W Mid Up to two roding birds were reported from the Boultbee's/Church Wood area (Meriden) on May 12 and 15. Outside the breeding season reports came from: Sheepwash UP on January 1 and November 7; Sutton Park on January 18 and March 4; Boultbee's Wood on January 31; Fens Pools on February 24 and October 30; Valley Park on March 6; Sandwell Valley on October 16, 24 and November 30; Mushroom Green Marsh on October 30; Netherton Res. on November 1; Willenhall SF on December 26, and Priest Park Wood on December 30.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Average passage: March 14 (4) to October 15 (4) Warks Records for seven months of the year from March 8 to October 10, involved about 21 individuals. There were singles at Draycote on March 8 and 10, April 9 and 10, May 20, July 31 and on October 9 and 10. Four were here on May 14. Further singles were at Kingsbury from March 21 to April 6 and on August 3 and 10; at Dosthill on May 21 and June 18; Jubilee Pools on May 23; Ladywalk on May 14 and September 18, and The Somers on May 20. Only one record received (ram Brandon, of two on May 11. Worcs Singles were seen at Bredon's Hardwick on January 30, March 6 to 7, 13 to 14 and April 11, while further birds were at Upton Warren on March 28 to 29, June 2 (three) and July 31 (two). Staffs Spring passage began at Belvide, with singles from April 19 to 21 and from 30 to May 6, followed by two on May 13 and six on 17. Barton then produced 12 on May 30, increasing to 15 the following day, then 11 on June 6, and five on 10. Return passage began on June 19 with 18 at Barton, then two here on 20, three on July 11 and August 9 and one on 10. Ten flew over Alrewas on June 26; while at Blithfield, birds were present on dates between 30 and August 29, with a peak of five on July 28. At Belvide, there were seven on July 10, one on 29, three on 31, 11 on August 10, five on 22 and one on October 16. Two were seen at Chasewater on July 15. W Mid Singles at Sheepwash UP on April 30 and over on September 3.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Warks Draycote started off the spring with a party of nine on May 8. One stayed at Ladywalk from May 11 to 18, with another at Kingsbury from 26 to 28. Other singles at Kingsbury on June 17 and July 12. Worcs In spring, one remained at Upton Warren from May 6 to 11 and another visited Bredon's Hardwick on May 10. In autumn, perhaps the same returning 93

spring bird was present at Upton Warren again between June 28 and July 1. Staffs Spring passage began at Blithfield with one on April 4. There were 13 at Belvide on May 10 and singles at Belvide on 12 and Dosthill on 18. Autumn passage began with singles at Barton on July 4 and Branston on 6. August produced one at Belvide on 22 and four at Westport on 30.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Average passage: April 11 (4) to September 28 (4) Warks Spring passage lasted from April 18 to May 10 (last year it was April 20 to May 101). Most records were from the Tame Valley and one was resident at Dosthill from April 30 to May 9. Usually just singles were involved, but two were noted at Kingsbury on April 18 and Dosthill on 22 and 25. On April 24, three separate observers recorded parties of four, six and seven at Dosthill; whether there was any duplication involved is impossible to tell. The only one at Draycote was on May 2. Return passage commenced with one over Kenilworth on July 16. On 24 there was a single at Ladywalk and a flock of 18 through Draycote. There was one over Brandon on August 3, three at Draycote on 21 and a late bird at Brandon on October 10. Worcs An excellent spring passage, particularly at Bredon's Hardwick where up to 24 birds were recorded between April 17 and May 25. These records included parties of five on April 30, nine on May 2, seven on 3 and three on May 8 and 12. Elsewhere, singles were noted at Upton Warren on April 16, 18, 22, May 3 and 12; Wilden on April 30 and May 12, and over Eckington on May 21. Return passage began with one at Upton Warren on June 25, followed by one over Stoke Bliss on July 4, four over Church Lench on 10, further singles at Upton Warren on July 19 to 22 and 27, and finally, one over Little Comberton on September 8. Staffs Recorded at eight sites ranging from April 19 to August 30. Passage was most marked at Belvide, where parties of eight on July 25 and 16 on August 9 were recorded. W Mid Singles flew through Sandwell Valley on April 21, 29 and May 10, with one through Fens Pools on August 28.

Curlew Numenius arquata Warks Monthly maxima in the Ladywalk area:

JFM A M J J A SO NO

4 19 19 2 — — 23 13 17 15 — 3

Records of display or confirmed breeding came from Alcester, Maxstoke, Oxhill, Polesworth and Whatcote. Maxima elsewhere of five, at Alvecote (March) and Draycote (July). Worcs Monthly maxima at Upton Warren:

JFMAMJJA SO NO

20 57 50 25 1 14 111 110 90 71 60 20 94

Pairs were noted in the breeding season at Abberton, Arley Wood, Beckford, Bredon's Hardwick (two), Broughton Hackett-Crowle-Upton Snodsbury area (two), Eckington (two), Peopleton, Shattcrford, Spetchley, Strensham, Tibber- ton-Trench Wood (two), Timberhonger and Wissetts Wood. Outside the breeding season there were eight at Holt on February 21 and seven at Bredon's Hardwick on March 6. Staffs Represented in every month of the year with records from 21 sites. Possible breeding reported from Anslow, Goldsitch Moss, the Roaches, Swallow Moss and at Whittington SF, where the maximum count of 40 was reported on December 26. W Mid One flew east at Meriden on January 3 and another circled Fens Pools on 25. Singles then occurred at Sheepwash UP on February 12 and 21. In April, reports came from Park Lime Pits on 1, Sandwell Valley on 11 (three) and 18 and at Bartley on 19. Further records from Sandwell Valley on June 20, July 8,14 (four), November 26 and finally, at Sheepwash UP on December 26.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Average passage: April 9 (4) to September 27 (4) Warks In view of the sparse number of records of late it is notable that Brandon was once again favoured, keeping up a run of seven consecutive years. One remained there from March 28 to April 4, with another on August 30. Another spring bird stayed at Ladywalk from May 11 to 14. On return passage, there were singles at Dosthill on August 30 and Draycote on August 15 and September 4. Worcs In autumn two visited Upton Warren from August 11 to 13, while further singles were at Kinsham GP on 15 and Upton Warren again on 16. Staffs Spring passage produced singles at Handsacre Flashes from March 28 to 30 and Branston on April 2, 3, 7, 10 and 11. Autumn passage birds were only reported from Blithfield, with two from August 8 to 14, three on 15, one on 16 and two on 24.

Redshank Tringa totanus Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J j A S O N D

Alvecote — — 10 2 Brandon — — 12 12 8 12 3 — 1 1 — — •osthill area 4 4 12 22 12 12 9 6 1 1 3 5

•raycote 2 — 3 . 1 — 4 3 2 — 2 — —

Bishampton Vale Pool — 1 _ — 2 — — — — — Bredon's Hardwick — 9 25 14 6 1 — — — 1 — 1 Kinsham GP — — — 2 2 — — — — — — — Lartord — — 2 2 Strensham — — 4 2 7 a Upton Warren 1 — 5 7 7 8 6 2 1 1 1 —

Other Sites (lour) — — 8 7 — — — — — 95

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Barton 1 2 3 2 8 7 1 1 1 Belvide — — a 9 4 6 11 4 2 2 1 — Blithlield — 6 5 1 8 6 3 7 1 1 1 Bldl Ibluil 2 3 0 0 0 — 3 — — — 2 — Croxall — — 5 6 6 6 5 •oxey — 1 3 1 2 1 — — 2 — 1

Other sites (17) — — 17 13 22 21 5 1 — — — 1

Sandwell Valley - - 2 1 1 1 — - 1 — 1 — Warks Pairs bred at Alvecote, Brandon, Dosthill (two) and Kingsbury (one or two). May have nested at Jubilee Pools and Ladywalk. One at Coombe on February 25 was unusual there. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from Aston Mill Pit, Eckington (two), Strensham and Upton Warren (two). Staffs Breeding pairs at: Barton, Belvide (two), Doley Common, Drayton Bassett, Kings Bromley and along the R. Penk, R. Sow (three) and R. Trent (two). Possible breeding reported from Baswich and Croxall. W Mid No reported breeding activity, although two were at Cornets End on May 9 and June 6. Noted at Sheepwash UP on February 13 and March 26 (two), Cornets End on March 14, Fens Pools on 22 and Stubber's Green on August I I (four).

Greenshank Tringa nebularia Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A S 0

Brandon — 4 3 2 7 2 Dosthill area — 1 6 3 1 2 1 —

Draycote — 2 — 1 1 7 3 —

Bittell — — 3 Bredon's Hardwick — — — — — 2 — —

Upton Warren — 2 1 — — 3 1 —

Barton — — 2 2 1 Belvide — 1 3 1 3 13 8 — Blithlield — — 1 1 3 19 9 1

Other sites (12) — 2 2 — 5 6 4 — Warks Singles at Alvecote on May 2 and 8, two on August 28 and one on September 5. At Ladywalk, there were singles on May 1, 4, 5 and 11, from July 14 to 17, on five dates in August and finally on September 17. Worcs Another poor year. Other than the tabulated records, singles were recorded during August at Bishampton Vale Pool, Grimley-Thorngrove, Kings Green, Kinsham GP, Warndon and Wilden. W Mid One at Cornets End on May 15 was the only spring record. Autumn passage birds reported from Fens Pools on July 14, Sheepwash UP on 20 and August 20, Sandwell Valley on August 17 (two) and 24, Bartley on September 1, Cornets End on 5, Berkswell Quarry on 9 and Netherton Res. on 19. 96

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Brandon 2 4 7 5 — 16 34 23 19 5 7 2 Kingsbury area 1 2 2 4 — 2 9 7 3 2 2 2

Bishampton Vale Pool ______1 1 _ — _ Bredon's Hardwick — — — 1 — — 2 1 1 1 — — Grimley 1 1— — — — 2 3 3 1— — Kinsham GP — — — — — — 1 1— 1 — — Upton Warren 122214894431 Other sites (seven) — — 1 — — — 1 5 — — 2 —

Blithlield _____ 1 6 7 3 1 — — Croxall ___ 1— 1 8 9 7 — — — EHord — 1 1— — — 2 3 — — — — Other sites (14) — — 4 3 — 4 7 13 10 — — 2

Comets End — — 1— — — — 4 5 2 — — Sandwell Valley _____ 1 1 2 1 — — — Warks A commonly occurring spring and autumn migrant at many waters. Wintering birds were also noted at Coombe (max. four), Draycote, Jubilee Pools, Lady- walk, The Somers, Stockton (max. three) and Ufton Fields. Worcs Generally a poor year with no double figure counts. W Mid Singles at Sheepwash UP on April 14 and 30, May 1, 8 and 10; Stubber's Green on April 15, 30 and September 2, and Fens Pools on July 7. Up to three at Berkswell Quarry in September and one at Park Lime Pits on October 1.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Average passage: May 8 (4) to October 1 (4) Warks A below-average year. In spring, there were singles at Brandon on May 4, Dosthill from 17 to 19 and Ladywalk on 24. Return passage involved just two; at Draycote from September 10 to 12, with another on 26. Worcs One was seen at Wilden on August 31, with perhaps the same bird again there from September 3 to 7. Staffs Spring passage produced singles in May at Dosthill on 18 and Blithfield on 23. Return passage began at Tlttesworth, with one on July 4. Blithfield held two on July 21 and 23 to 25. Singles were at Chasewater on July 25 and in August at Belvide on 11 and Barton on 7 and 12.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Monthly maxima at main sites:

M A M J J A S O

Brandon — 1 2 1 1 7 — _ Draycote — 2 5 — 33 13 4 1 Kingsbury area 1 7 5 1 8 6 3 2 97

M A M' J J A s O

Bishampton Vale Pool — 2 — — 1 1 1 1 Bittell — 5 2 — 3 8 2 — Bredon's Hardwick — 3 7 2 5 6 2 1 Grimley — — 1 1 — — — — Larford — 2 1 — — — — — Lower Moor — 1 I — — — — — Upton Warren — 7 5 2 3 5 2 — Westwood — 1 — — 6 3 — — Wilden — — 2 — — 4 — —

Other sites (eight) — —' 8 1 — 2 — —

Barton — 2 — 3 10 3 2 1 Belvide — 8 4 1 24 16 10 — Blithfield — 6 3 5 31 19 10 — Branston — 2 — — 8 4 — — Chasewater — 3 5 — 2 2 — — Tittesworth — 4 5 8 5 4 — — Westport — 3 2 — 2 1 1 —

Other sites (14) — 8 6 4 16 30 2 1

Bartley — 4 S — — 4 — — Comets End — — 3 — — 1 — — Fens Pools — 3 5 — — 1 — — Netherton Res. — 3 — — 2 1 2 — Sandwell Valley — 10 7 1 10 3 — — Sheepwash UP — 2 3 2 1 3 1 — Wyken Slough — 1 1 — 1 — — — Warks A common passage migrant occurring in small numbers at most sites. 33 at Draycote on July 18 is believed to be the highest ever recorded count from there. Outside the tabulated months, there were singles at Kingsbury on February 11 and March 18, at both Brandon and Lea Marston in early November, and at Dosthill on November 5 and 16. Worcs Noted along the R. Teme in May and June. No double figure counts this year, although seen at a good number of sites. Staffs Up to seven territories were held at Tittesworth during May, with three pairs subsequently rearing young. W Mid Passage birds also reported in April from Fishley, Goscote Valley, Park Lime Pits and Stubber's Green; in May at Netherton Hill and Edgbaston Park (three on 13), and in July at Valley Park.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Average passage: April 27 (4) to September 25 (4) Warks Another wader which occurred in record numbers on return passage. The regional record of 20, which has stood since 1975, was eclipsed by a very impressive 27, counted at Draycote on August 17. The overall total involved throughout the season could have been higher than 60, with two or three' separate peaks. The situation was reflected in the Tame valley with the best numbers for some years. There were spring records at Dosthill on May 11 and at Draycote on April 29, from May 9 to 13 and May 15 (two). Return passage probably started in June, as there were two at Draycote on 14, with singles there on 19 and at Kingsbury on 20. 98

Weekly maxima at Draycote in autumn:

Jul Aug Sop

2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

2 2 2 1 17 27 15 2 3 1 — The high numbers at Draycote were on just three dates: 17 on August 11, 27 on 17 and 15 on 28 and it is probable that these flocks moved out fairly quickly. The final record here was a single on September 19. All the other records came from the Dosthill area, on July 26, 29 to 30 (two) and August 22 (two). Worcs The only records came in spring when two visited Bredon's Hardwick on May 10, one of these birds remaining until 12, and another was seen at Arrow Valley Lake on May 28. Staffs Spring passage began on May 10, with singles at Belvide, Croxall and Chasewater, and two at Blithfield. Then singles at Croxall on 11, Chasewater on 12 and Blithfield on 29. Autumn passage began with three at Blithfield on July 18, with three there and one at Belvide on 23. Blithfield then had two on 24 and one on 25 and 26, with singles at Belvide and Rudyard on 27 and Blithfield on 29. One at Chasewater on August 15. Another small influx occur- red at Belvide and Blithfield between August 22 and 28, with a maximum of six at Blithfield on 22. W Mid The only record concerned a bird at Fens Pools on August 22.

Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius W Mid A juvenile in Sandwell Valley on September 10 and 11 JEF et al, was unfor- tunately taken by a Sparrowhawk.

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Warks A sub-adult flew through Draycote on the unusual date of June 11 MDB and a dark-phase adult was seen there on August 22 AC. Worcs A dark-phase immature passed through Upton Warren on August 12 TMH, GHP and a pale-phase adult, accompanied by a juvenile, flew south over Saxon's Lode on September 29 LAB. Staffs Three probable adults were seen at Blithfield, a dark-phase on September 7 ESC, PJ and a light and dark-phase on 12 GE. W Mid Three pale-phase adults drifted south over Sandwell Valley on August 22 JEF, TCH, MH, DWJ.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Warks There were probably fewer in the county this year (after a record minimum of 20 in 1992) and there were none at all from the Tame valley. Almost all records came from Draycote, where one or two adults were usually in the roost from January to March. Singles were here on ten January nights, with two on the 30, and 11 February nights, with two on 16. Two were present from March 1 to 9, one on 12,13, 20, 21, 23 and 26 and one on April 9 MDB et al. Whether more than two individuals were involved in these records is impos- sible to say. Second-winters, sometimes noted as second-summers, were 99

recorded on: March 7 GIG, REH, PDH, DM, 20 (two) MDB, 21 PDH, 22 AC, MDB, SMW and 25 MDB. A second-summer was seen on May 9 RCM. First- winters were very scarce this year, with just one on January 6 JJB and 9 ARD. The second winter period provided just four records. At Draycote, there was a second-winter on October 27 JJB and an adult on November 6 MDB, ICW and December 18 MDB. The only record away from here this year was of a first-winter which briefly landed in a Hillmorton garden on December 16 DM. Worcs At Westwood, an adult in winter plumage roosted from February 6 to 9 MJI, GHP, WFP. This was followed by a summer plumaged adult roosting on March 2 and 3 SMW, with a different bird on March 13 SMW. Later in the year, this roost produced a first-winter from December 1 to 7 and another between December 23 and 31 SMW, GHP et al. Elsewhere, there were single first-winters at Throckmorton on February 24 PFS, Bredon's Hardwick on April 8 GHP, WFP and in the roost at Bittell on October 21 GHP. Staffs At Blithfield, single first-winters were noted on January 24 BDC, PJ, WJL, 31 and February 14 WJL, with single adults on February 14 to 21 WJL, March 7 SMW et a/and March 14 AJB. Possibly only two individuals were involved in these records. Elsewhere, a first-winter at Belvide on February 20 SN, with an adult at Chasewater on January 7 WJL and a first-winter on November 3 TCH. W Mid An adult was at Fens Pools on January 28 SE, BMM. 1992 Addendum Staffs The juvenile at Blithfield already published in the WMBC Annual Report 59:91, was first seen on August 22, when a second-winter bird was also present SN.

Little Gull Larus minutus Warks One early record of a first-winter at Draycote on January 9. Spring passage was even worse than last year, with single adults at Draycote on April 5, 12, 25 and 28 and a first-summer on 18. The only other was an adult at Dosthill on April 24 and 25. Return passage began on August 18 with four juveniles at Draycote. Singles (mainly juveniles), were then seen here on six subse- quent dates up to September 12, when an impressive flock of 26 (including four adults) were present. Single first-winters were seen on four further dates up to September 23, with a late adult on November 5. Elsewhere, Shustoke had a good period with up to three first-winters from September 17 to 24. A first-winter was at Coton on September 20, while an adult and first-winter were at Jubilee Pools on November 28. Worcs In the spring, three adults were at Wilden on April 9, with singles at Westwood on April 13 and Throckmorton on May 1. On May 8, two adults passing through Bredon's Hardwick were almost certainly the same birds that were seen an hour later at Upton Warren! The first autumn bird was at Frankley Res. on September 1. At Westwood, there was an adult and two juveniles on September 17, followed by a single juvenile that stayed from 19 to 24. Later, the roost here held an adult and two first-winters on November 3, one first- winter on 4 and two adults on 6. A winter plumaged adult was at Bredon's 100

Hardwick on October 9, while at Upton Warren there was a first-winter from September 30 to October 2 and another on December 3. Staffs Blithfield had the first spring record with three adults on April 11 and 12, followed by two on 14 and 15 and a sub-adult on 16. Belvide produced adults on April 16, 28 and May 8 (two), while Chasewater had a first-summer and either an adult or second-summer on May 10. A modest autumn passage at Blithfield, with an adult on August 4, first-winters on 14, 25 and 27 (three), a second-winter on September 7, an adult from 8 to 12 and an adult and first- winter from 17 to 21. Elsewhere, first-winters at Chasewater on September 13 (four), Westport on 18 and Tittesworth on October 31. W Mid An adult flew through Fens Pools on May 11. One at Bartley on September 1, with a first-winter at Wyken Slough on 17.

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Draycote 15000 - 10000 12000 15000 17400

Bittell 3500 2500 15 200 400 500 450 65 Bredon's Hardwick - •600 35 9 — — 250 — — 300 300 Madeley Heath 700 — — — — —•• — — Throckmorton 2000 600 300 — — 100 200 — — 700 • 800 1500 Upton Warren 100 100 30 5 5 34 1500 2150 800 600 1800 — Westwood 6000 2500 2750 14 4 1 500 350 700 450 4000 5500 Warks About 20 pairs bred at Kingsbury. 10000 were estimated at the Coton roost in December and 1500 roosted at Alvecote on August 1. Other counts included 3000 on fields at Bubbenhall on January 8 and 1200 at Coombe on October 28. A near albino was at Draycote on January 16 and from March 20 to April 9, with possibly the same at Jubilee Pools on February 6. Worcs Other counts included 1000 on floodwater at Longdon Marsh on January 17, 375 at Strensham on August 30 and 500 at both Upton-upon-Sevem and Longdon Marsh in December. Staffs Nested in the Aqualate area where 30 adults and nine juveniles were counted on June 15. The national gull survey on January 22/24 produced counts of 26200 at Blithfield, 11000 at Chasewater, 6500 at Belvide, 4200 at Westport, 4000 at Aqualate, 3000 at Copmere, 750 at Tittesworth and 65 at Chillington, giving a total of 55, 715. Other roost counts included 15000 at Chasewater on December 24, 3050 at Blithfield on August 28 and 2()00 at Belvide on October 17. A semi-albinotic adult was reported at Chasewater on several dates from January 15 (see below), with an albino at Barton on April 1. A bird with a Russian ring was at Branston WP on March 27. W Mid Peak first winter period counts comprised 1000 at Dunstall Park on January 9, 500 at Stubber's Green on February 1 and in excess of 250 on Wyndley Pool in Sutton Park on 13. 3500 were counted flying south-east over Wyken Slough towards the Draycote roost on January 7. 600 were on Dunstall Park by August 19, with 620 at Netherton Res. on November 24 and 1500 at Wyken Slough on December 5. A large winter roost was reported from 101

Bartley, but no specific counts were received. A semi-albinotic adult on school fields near Brownhills on January 14. It had a white mantle and base of wings, very pale grey inner primaries, black in wing- tips as usual, but with a paler than normal underwing. This bird was also noted at Chasewater (Staffs) on several occasions.

Common Gull Larus canus Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Draycote 4000 - 5000 4500 5050

Bittell 1 1 — 1 Bredon's Hardwick — 12 50 350 — 1 — — — 3 15 20 Longdon Marsh — — 200 — — — — — — — — 100 Throckmorton 12 3 2 7 15 3 Upton Warren 2 1 1 — — 1 3 1 1 — e —

Westwood 16 2 13 5 — — — — 2 4 23 10

Blithlield 100 62 50 — — — Chasewater 15 10 13 — — — — — — 5 — — Tittesworth 4 20 20 — — — — — — — — Westport 13 11 16 2 16 1 0 1 1 3 8 S

Warks The above counts were independantly made by more than one observer so are considered accurate. Recorded in the county up to May 26 and again from July 17. Spring passage was noted on March 18 at Chesterton (90), on 28 at Jubilee Pools (150) and on April 15 at Draycote (70). A leucistic bird was at Draycote on March 20 and 22 and again on December 18. Worcs 38 flew over Westmancote on March 26. Also recorded in small numbers at Castlemorton Common, Madeley Heath, Hollybush, Strensham and Tibberton. Staffs 16 first-summers at Westport on May 17 was a high count for the time of year. W Mid Largest counts were 35 at Wyken Slough on March 3,-16 at Comets End on October 23 and 45 at Wyken Slough in December. Counts at the latter locality have shown a big rise this year, while a general increase in numbers in the Coventry area has been apparent in recent years. It was regularly noted flying over Wyken Slough on evening flight-lines to the Draycote roost, maxi- mum of 150 on November 29. One to five birds counted at Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Res., Finchley Park, Perry Hall Park, Queslett NP, Sandwell Valley, Stubber's Green and Witton Lakes.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus graellsii Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Doslhill — — 370 — — — 450 — 300 1500 850

Draycote 1500 1000 — — — — 90 — 1200 — 3500 3000 102

J F M A M J J A s O N D

Rrftdon's Hardwick — — 30 172 50 — — 5 — — 30 20 Grimley 70 — — — — — — — — — — — Madeley Heath 150 Strensham — — — — — — — 25 — — — — Throckmorton 2500 1500 200 180 60 600 600 300 80 1800 1600 2400 Upton Warren — — — — 57 — 5 — 50 — — — Westwood 1800 110 150 2 2 2 16 145 226 950 2500

Chasewater - 1115 100 - - — 1400 2000 - - Warks On February 28 a roost of 1000 at Draycote included 98% adults. A leucistic bird was present here on December 31. Worcs At least two pairs bred on roof-tops in Worcester city. Other large counts included 1000 on Longdon Marsh and 700 roosting at Frankley Res., both in December. Staffs The national gull roost counts on January 24 produced 442 at Aqualate, 275 at Belvide and 1580 at Blithfield. There were also up to 200 at Bemmersley Tip in January. The Blithfield roost was down to 630 by March 6. Bemmersley had 70 on March 17, then 200 on July 26 and 300 on September 6. 77 flew through Belvide on May 10, with 80 there on August 17 and 1700 by October 10. A bird at Cannock Tip on February 16 had been ringed as a breeding female on the Isle of May in 1990. W Mid Bred in Birmingham city centre (a chick was taken by a Sparrowhawk in late July!), where up to 30 adults were present from May to July. Highest counts consisted of 400 in Dunstall Park on January 5, 70 at Netherton Res. on September 9, 200 in Valley Park on 25 and 300 on ploughed fields at Park Lime Pits on October 4. Birds regularly noted flying over Wyken Slough on their way to the Draycote roost, with a peak count of 570 on October 26.

"Scandinavian" Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. fuscus Warks At Draycote, an adult on January 6 JJB, with an adult and second-summer bird on July 25 MDB, JJB. Worcs An adult in the roost at Westwood on January 10 GHP. Staffs Two adults at Chasewater on January 24 DJC.

"Intermediate" Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. intermedius Identification of this "race" is very difficult and many birds are probably impos- sible to differentiate in the field from graellsii. It is likely that a small but size- able proportion of the winter population consists of these birds, which breed in Denmark and southern Sweden. Warks Up to 20 birds resembling this race were seen at Draycote in January, Feb- ruary, November and December. Worcs Birds identified as this race were at Throckmorton and Westwood on a regu- lar basis.

Herring Gull Larus argentatus The breeding attempt at Throckmorton mirrors the first recorded nest at Bromsgrove in 1969, which was also found on a tip. 103

Warks Few records received. At Draycote the roost held maxima of 3500 in January, 670 in November and 1000 in December. There were odd records from Dost- hill between May and July. Worcs Monthly maxima at selected sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Bitten 25 Bredon's Hardwick — — 12 3 8 — 1 — — — 3 3 Grimley 30 Madeley Heath 100 Throckmorton 350 100 30 15 — 7 6 6 1 16 18 400 Westwood 250 8 6 — 5 7 250 A nest with eggs was found on the landfill tip at Throckmorton but it was sub- sequently destroyed by a bulldozer PFS. The onlyJ other record of signifi- cance was of 70 over Upton Warren on January 3. Staffs Poor numbers, with counts of 740 at Blithfield on January 24, less than 50 at Belvide and only two at Aqualate in the national roost count. Other counts came from Bemmersley Tip, with 300 on January 13, six on March 17 and 200 on December 28; and 500 at Chasewater on February 28, with 15 on October 18. W Mid Either not common or rarely counted! Ten at Edgbaston Res. on January 4, 40 at Dunstall Park on 5,11 in Sutton Park on 16, four at Cornets End on 17 and nine in Finchley Park on December 16. Regular in winter at Bartley, while a peak of 700 were counted flying over Wyken Slough on their way to the Draycote roost on December 21.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus cachinnans The recent decision by the BOURC to treat this as a full species is followed here. Most birds will be of the Mediterranean race L. c. michahellis, but a few examples of the eastern nominate race L. c. cachinnans also seem to occur. Warks It was a record year. Most records as usual came in the late summer/autumn, with best numbers occurring at both Dosthill and Draycote on July 26 and 27. In the early part of the year, there were adults at Draycote on January 6 and Coton on January 9 and March 7. Further records from Draycote involved a third-winter on March 22 and adults on 25 and 30. At Dosthill there may have been as many as 20 individuals between June 21 and October 29. Most birds were adults with one or two third-summers. Generally there were just singles, but three on July 14, five on 26 and two on August 10, September 27 and October 19. One or two of these records were from nearby Kingsbury. At Draycote there were more records than usual. From July 21 to August 18 there were usually one or two, but five adults were present on July 27 and three on August 9. Winter records at Draycote commenced with adults on November 7 (three), 15 (two) and 19 and December 12, 19 (three) and 21. Another adult was at Shustoke on December 1. Worcs At Westwood in January, one or two adults between 7 and 16, a fourth-winter on 15 and 16 and a third-winter on 15 and 18. Up to four adults were in the roost between November 15 and the end of the year. These were joined occasionally by single third-winters from November 30 onwards and by single 104

fourth-winters from December 12. GHP, WFP, SMW. At Throckmorton, an adult on January 9 DJS and 10 GHP and a fourth-winter on February 8 GHP. One adult was here all through October and was joined by a third-winter on 22 and 30 SMW. Up to five adults were here during November and Decem- ber, joined by single fourth-winters on November 7 and December 12 and 29 and a third-winter on December 22 and 28 SMW, GHP. Elsewhere, an adult was on floodwater at Grimley on January 16 TE, GHP and a fourth-winter at Bredon's Hardwick on December 5 SMW. Also in December, there were single adults at Upton Warren on 6 and 25 GG and on floodwater at Severn Stoke on 12 MAS, Bredon on 19 GHP and Powick Hams on 28 AW. An adult and third-winter were on Upton-upon-Severn Ham also on December 19 GHP. Staffs At Chasewater, a third-winter on January 3 JPM, with single adults on January 3 DJC, 24 GE, October 31, November 7 and 21 ARD. Single adults also recorded at: Blithfield, on January 24 BDC, WJL and October 23 WJL; Westport on January 7 MDS and 24 AB, and Copmere on January 24 and November 28 DWE. W Mid Single adults were seen at: Finchley Park on January 4 CJW, Sheepwash UP on September 3 AGW, Wyken Slough on October 1 JJB and Stubber's Green on November 6 DJC. 1992 Addendum Staffs Single adults at Belvide on January 24, November 6 and 14, three on Decem- ber 2 and one on December 12 SN, were identified as L. c. michahellis. Two adults here on November 29 and December 5 SN, were thought to be of the race L. c. cachinnans.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides

Iceland Gull (John Teasdale) Good numbers were present early in the year in line with the rest of Britain. Warks About seven different birds were seen at Draycote and possibly two at Dost- hill, This roughly equals 1991 as the best year ever. At Draycote an adult, 105

probably the one from December 1992, was in the roost on ten nights from January 3 to 26 and again on February 2 MDB et al. Another was seen on February 22 MDB, JJB. First-winters were present on January 30 REH, RCM, DJS and March 12 REH and possibly the same, although described as a second-winter, the next day AC. A first-summer roosted on April 1 MDB. At Dosthill, first-winters were seen on January 23 AC and February 10 JAA. At Draycote in the second winter period there was a first-winter on December 24 MDB, REH, DM, 29 RCM and 31 GIG, DM and an adult on December 24 DM, 26 and 27 MDB and 29 JJB. Worcs Single first-winters at Madeley Heath on January 1 GHP, TMH, in the West- wood roost on January 17 SMW, WPP and at Throckmorton on February 6 GHP. Staffs Another good crop of records. At Cannock Tip, single first-winters were seen on January 22 to 23 MDJ, ICW, MY, February 16 to 21 DJA et al, March 16 to 21 DJA et al and December 29 MJH, RH. In addition, a second-winter bird was here from January 18 to 23 AL et al. Chasewater had single adults on January 3 DJC, 17 DJA, AB, 23 DJA, 30 DJC, February 13 JJB, FCG and from March 1 to 10 DJA, with a first-winter on December 31 GE. At Blithfield, an adult from March 3 to 5 DJA, ESC, with a different bird on March 6 DJA, PDH, JCT. Away from the main sites, single first-winters appeared at West- port on January 9 AH and Copmere on 16 DWE, while an adult was at Little Wyrley on January 31 MJH, RH. 1988 Addendum Staffs A second-winter was seen at Belvide on January 30 JVH, GRH. 1992 Addendum Staffs A first-winter was at Belvide on December 5 SN.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Warks An adult in the Draycote roost on January 3 ARD, GIG, PDH, with possibly another there on 23, 25 and 26 MDB. An adult at Ryton tip on February 6 PFA may have been the same bird. Single first-winters were at Draycote on January 22 MDB and 23 ARD and at Ryton tip on March 6 PFA. There was a good series of records from the Tame Valley too, with birds during the day as well as in the roosts. A first-winter seen at Coton on January 3 JAA, TE, SMH was at Dosthill on 7 AC. An adult, first seen at Dosthill on 14 JEF, TCH, roosted near Middleton oh 15 and 16 JAA and at Coton on 17 AC. It was noted at Dosthill again on 21 PC and 23 JAA, on which date a second-winter was also reported AC. In the second winter period, an adult first seen at Draycote on December 17 MDB, SMW, was seen most evenings until 31 MDB et al. Another adult was at Dosthill on December 18 NFO. Worcs A second-winter at Throckmorton on January 28 GHP was the only record. Staffs At least five or six different birds were seen at Cannock Tip: Single first- winters were there on January 23 MJI, ICW, MY and December 29 MJH, RH and 30 DJA, with second-winters on January 18 and 21 AL, February 23 AB and either this or a first-winter on 26 MDJ, MY. Fourth-winter/summer birds were recorded on February 15, 17, March 3 DJA and 7 MJH, RH and adults from January 19 to 22 AL etal., 30 DJA, February 5 MDJ, 17 ESC and March 106

7 ICW. In stark contrast, nearby Chasewater surprisingly produced only one record, a first-winter on January 23 DJA, BR. Blithfield did better this year, with first-winters on February 21 DJA, ESC, WJL, 27 DJA and December 29 WJL, second-winters on January 20 ESC and 31 TB and an adult (possibly the same bird) on January 10 WJL, 26 MY, February 26 ESC and March 5 MDJ. Away from the usual sites, an adult was seen at Drayton Bassett on January 15 JAA.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Monthly maxima at main sites:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Bittell 3 Throckmorton 35 18 1 2 — 1 20 Upton Warren 5 Westwood 80 1 2 1 1 15

Chasewater 142 10 3 28 — 106 Warks Few records received. In the Draycote roost there were maxima of 300 in January, three in September, 350 in November and 170 in December. Worcs Four at Madeley Heath on January 1 and 3. A first-winter at Bredon's Hardwick on March 6. Staffs Relatively few records received and numbers lower than in recent years. There were 142 at Blithfield on January 24, declining to only 60 here on 31. Many of the latter flock were first-winters, suggesting an early departure as these are usually the last to leave. Otherwise no more than eight reported from five localities in January. After an early bird at Blithfield on August 30, numbers reached 133 there in December. W Mid One to four birds reported from Bartley, Dunstall Park, Finchley Park, Nether- ton Hill, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Valley Park and Woodshires Green. Noted on a fairly regular basis flying over Wyken Slough to Draycote, peak of six on January 7.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla A small January "wreck" occurred. Warks As many as 35 may have been involved this year, making it the best since 1988. Draycote accounted for the vast majority but there were only four records of two or more together. Five adults and two first-winters were seen on January 17, nine adults on May 23, an adult and first-summer on May 27 and two first-winters on October 24. In addition, singles (mainly adults) occur- red on six dates between January 10 and May 16 and also on September 9, 10 and December 4. Elsewhere, an adult paused to bathe at Ryton Pool on January 12 and another was found exhausted at Brandon on 24. Four adults were at Dosthill on April 25 and one on October 12. Worcs A small January influx started with a first-winter in the roost at Westwood on 12, followed by. single adults there on 16 and at Upton Warren on 17. At Throckmorton there was an adult on 23, two on 25 and an adult and first- winter on 29. A first-winter was a long stayer at Broome Pool from 25 up to 107

March 2, while another first-winter was at Larford from 30 to February 1. In February, single adults appeared at Holt windsurfing pit on 4, at Lower Moor on 13 and Upton Warren on 19, with two first-winters there on 22. The only subsequent reports came in May: a flock of 11 adults briefly at Upton Warren on 9, two more here on 16 and finally a single adult at Lower Moor on 31. Staffs All records refer to adults unless otherwise stated. An influx in mid to late January began with one at Westport on 12 (found moribund and died next day). Further sightings at Westport on 23, 25 (two), 27 (also found moribund) and 31, with singles at Blithfield on 17 and 24 (first-winter) and Belvide on 21. In February, singles at Blithfield on 7 and 26 and Belvide also on 26. March produced fewer than usual, with singles at Westport on 11 and 19 and Tlttesworth on 16 and 19. Other spring records from Belvide on April 6 (two) and 14 and at Barton (unaged) on May 16. Two first-years at Rudyard on September 7 and a second-winter at Belvide on December 12 were the only records later in the year. W Mid An adult at Edgbaston Res. on January 21, was followed by one at Parkes Hall Pool on January 30, February 2 and 3 and an adult at Bartley on February 20. An adult and a juvenile flew through Fens Pools on August 22, with a further juvenile noted on October 26. There was an immature at Sheepwash UP on December 18 and a notable flock of 25 flying south-east over Netherton Res. on 24. Caspian Tern Sterna caspia The Dosthill bird was probably the same one that was seen the next day at Willington (Derbys.) and on May 12 at Lound (Notts.). Warks An adult stayed for thirty minutes at Dosthill on May 10 JAA This was the fourth county record, the last being at Seeswood Pool on May 8 1988. Staffs The bird at Dosthill on May 10 JAA also spent several minutes flying around the two lakes on the Staffordshire side of the border. 1992 Addendum Staffs One was at Belvide for thirty minutes on June 21 MF, MWR, GWR. It was probably the same bird that had been seen the previous day at Thornton Res. in Leicestershire.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Average passage: April 6 (4) to September 29 (4) Warks There were singles at Draycote and Shustoke on April 10, with others at Draycote on May 10 and 11, August 31 and September 17. Worcs One visited Bredon's Hardwick on April 10 and six flew south at the same site on April 20. Staffs Seven at Branston WP on April 20. One at Blithfield on August 14 was followed by a remarkable party of 29 at Chasewater on 22, which departed east. One flew through Belvide on September 6 and two were at Blithfield on 29. W Mid Five at Fens Pools for five minutes on August 22, with presumably the same five in Sandwell Valley on the same date for two hours. 1992 Addendum Staffs Three at Westport on April 17 headed off in a northerly direction. 108

Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii The first Regional records since 1987. Warks One seen at Dosthill on May 12 SLC was the first in the county since 1987. Worcs A bird ringed as a nestling four years previously at Lady's Island Lake in southern Ireland was seen along the R. Avon at Eckington bridge between May 19 and 2.1, and was frequently seen resting on nearby caravan roofs! TH etal. This is the second county record and the first since 1972.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Common Terns (John Teasdale)

Average: April 12 (9) to October 7 (9) The first of the year was at Belvide on April 9, while the latest was at Draycote on September 27. 109

Monthly maxima at selected sites:

A M J J A S O

Draycote 4 26 21 25 70 35 —

Kin(jshiiry/nnsthill 36 50 50 66 —

Bishampton Vale Pool — 1 — • — — 1 Binell — 2 1 3 — — Bredon's Hardwick 1 1 3 2 1 — Upton Warren 3 31 6 3 3 1 — Westwood 2 2 — — — 3 —

Other sites (five) — 2 2 1 — Warks Nine pairs nested at Draycote, raising a minimum of 20 young. At least 25 pairs bred at Kingsbury and, for the first time, two or three pairs occupied the island at Dosthill. A record 70 young were ringed in this area. A first-summer (the so-called "portlandica" type) was at Dosthill on May 31, while on a note of caution, a bird with an all-dark bill and clean-looking wings resembling Roseate, was closely scrutinised at Draycote on June 16. Worcs One pair nested but failed to hatch any young at Upton Warren due to pre- dation. The first bird of the year arrived at Westwood on April 12 and a first- summer bird was seen there on May 25 and at Upton Warren on 28. In a generally poor year for passage birds, a peak count of 31 passed through the latter site on May 27. Staffs Bred at Branston, where four or five nests were washed out in mid-June, and Kings Bromley, one pair. First noted at Belvide on April 9 and Doxey on 11. Modest numbers in spring apart from 22 at Belvide on May 14 and 27. 49 at Dosthill in June included local breeding birds (most or all in Warwickshire). Autumn peaks included 34 at Blithfield in late July and 28 there in late August. The last was one there on September 21. W Mid One pair attempted to breed in Sutton Park, where there was a peak count of 14 on May 13. One to three reported between May 10 and September 17 from Edgbaston Res., Fens Pools, Park Lime Pits, Plants Brook Res., Sand- well Valley, Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough. A first-summer ("portlandica") bird was present at Sheepwash UP from May 19 to 27.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Average passage: April 11 (4) to October 9 (4) Warks There was a slightly better spring passage this year. The first record was of two at Draycote on April 9, with up to three here on four further April dates. In May there were four on 11, six on 13, with three more singles to 30. A good flock of 15 at Shustoke on May 27 was not mirrored elsewhere; two stayed until next day. At Dosthill, birds were noted from April 19 to May 30, but apart from eight on April 25 and three on 30, there were just one or two on nine dates. At Kingsbury, there were five on May 11, with singles on four other dates. Four were also seen at Earlswood on May 11. Return passage was the best for many years, with over 25 birds between July 25 and October 5 and with adults outnumbering juveniles. At Draycote, apart from singles and a couple of twos, there were three on August 5 and five on September 8. 110

Seven were noted at Dosthill on July 26, with two further singles there and one at Shustoke. Worcs In spring, three visited Westwood and one Wilden on April 25, with another passing through this last locality on April 27. One was at Bredon's Hardwick on May 12, three at Bittell on 20, with two remaining until the next day and another at Upton Warren on 27. Return passage birds were seen at Upton Warren on July 28 (three), August 11 and September 9 (two); Bittell on August 5, and at Westwood, where a juvenile lingered from September 28 to October 10. Staffs A poor year. The first were two at Blithfield on April 11 and four on 23, followed by a small influx on 25 when there were 12 at Barton, six at Tittesworth and four at Westport, with one at Blithfield on 26. Poor numbers in May, with one to four at Belvide on four dates between 6 and 14, and two at Blithfield on 31. July produced five at Blithfield on 17, one at Chasewater on 22 and five at Belvide on 29. Noted at Blithfield on 11 dates between August 1 and September 17, with one to three apart from 13 on August 1 and 11 on 5. A total of seven also passed through Belvide in August. Otherwise, singles at Chasewater on August 19 and Westport on 24. WMid One at Edgbaston Res. on May 11, with three on 12 and four on 13, followed by a juvenile from September 10 to 17. Four at Fens Pools on May 11 and two on August 11. One in Sandwell Valley on May 17.

Little Tern Sterna albifrons Average passage: May 8 (4) to September 5 (4) Warks Five birds this year is just one more than average. Two were at Dosthill on May 21. Three singles were seen at Draycote; on July 9, August 23 and September 9 (a juvenile). Worcs The only records came from Bredon's Hardwick where single birds passed through on May 11 and 14. Staffs Different singles occurred at Belvide on May 10 and 11. W Mid One at Cornets End on May 11.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Average passage: April 22 (4) to October 13 (4) A good spring passage, with an influx from May 10 to 13 right across the Region. Warks Most records were for spring, with extreme dates of April 28 and June 30, when two were at Draycote. Most occurred between May 10 and 26, during which time some good flocks were seen. On May 10, there were 18 at Dray- cote, seven at Dosthill and two at Shustoke. Next day there were 25 at Dray- cote, eight at Dosthill, nine at Kingsbury and again two at Shustoke. From May 12 to 15 there was a steady passage involving fewer birds, but 12 at Draycote on 12 and 15 there on 13 were good counts. A further movement occurred on May 26, when 26 were at Draycote but only two at Dosthill. After last year, autumn passage was very poor. At Draycote, up to two were seen on eight dates in August and up to six on twelve dates in September, with 16 on September 8 the only larger count. At Shustoke, there was one on Sep- 111

tember 8, two on 13, three on 14 and one on 15. The only other was at Dosthill on September 30. Worcs An excellent spring passage took place mainly between May 10 and 12 with up to 72 birds in the County on 11. Birds occurred at the following sites: three at Bishampton Vale Pool on 11; two at Bittell on 10, with eight on 11 and one on 12; four at Bredon's Hardwick on 10, with 17 on 11 and four on 12 and then further singles on May 17 and 23; one at Larford on 11 and two on 12; 11 at Lower Moor on 11, two on 12 and three on 13; six at Pirton on 12; eight at Throckmorton Tip on 11; six at Upton Warren on 11, up to 11 on 12 and singles on 13 and 26; and finally four at Westwood on 10, increasing to 18 on 11 and 26 on 12. Autumn passage in contrast was far less spectacular, with one at Upton Warren on August 14, six at Bredon's Hardwick on September 8, then one there from 10 to 15 and finally one at Upton Warren again on 20. Staffs A small influx occurred in May, chiefly between 10 and 13 when at least 37 birds were seen. Birds were recorded from: Belvide, on 7, 10, 11 (nine), 12 (three) and 28; Croxall, one on 11, with seven on 13; Barton, 13 on 12; Chasewater, one on 8, six on 10, 19 on 11., six on 12 and one on 27, and Tittesworth, four on 12 and one on 15. August produced two at Belvide on 15, with singles on 16 and 19, two at Blithfield on 15 and one at Tittesworth on 22. In September, there were up to four at Blithfield from 2 to 6, two at Chase- water on 11, one at Westport on 13 and one at Aqualate on 19. W Mid A flock of 20 to 22 birds were counted at Edgbaston Res. on April 29. Singles at Bartley on May 11 and September 9, Sandwell Valley on May 10 and 27, with two on September 11. At Fens Pools, there were 11 on May 11, with singles on 12 and August 21 and two on September 8. One in Sutton Park on May 13.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus This brings the autumn 1992 total to three, including another adult at Wilden and Westwood on September 11, the day of a huge Black Tern movement. 1992 Addendum Staffs A moulting adult was at Blithfield on September 11 PAJN, SW et at.

Little Auk Allealle Worcs A bird picked up exhausted from a slurry run on a farm at Bredon on October 23 died in care soon afterwards SD per JWn. Feral Pigeon Columba livia In future all useful records concerning this much ignored species will be pub- lished. Population estimates, breeding records and counts of large flocks will all be welcome. Warks Up to 200 were resident at Hams Hall power station. Staffs 150 at Pendeford Mill NR on December 16 and 100 in the Moreton area on November 28. W Mid Little information on this rather overlooked species. In excess of 30 continue to flourish at a traditional site in Valley Park, while 75 were counted in Willen- hall town centre on December 26. Flocks of up to 100 were seen widely in north and central Coventry throughout the year. 112

Stock Dove Columba oenas Warks About 35 pairs were estimated at Coombe. Numbers counted on the summer bird census at BAD Kineton have remained fairly constant from 1987 to 1993, with 51 birds noted this year. Winter flocks were generally smaller than last year. Maxima included 35 at Bramcote Mains, 60 at Butler's End and 95 at Coombe, all in the second winter period. Worcs Two young were seen in nestboxes at Far Forest on June 2 and Lynall's Coppice on 25. Flocks included: 150 at Grimley on January 24, with 200 there on February 6; 30 at Huddington on January 31; 20 at Bredon's Hardwick on March 6; 25 at Holt on April 4; 135 on Bredon Hill on May 19; and 30 at Tlbberton on November 23, with 26 on December 11. Staffs Under-recorded and perhaps declining. Apart from 100 at Barton on October 17 and 71 at Belvide on March 1, there were no reports of double figures and only one report of breeding (in an owl box at Belvide). W Mid Breeding reported from Berkswell Hall, Knowle, Longford in Coventry (in a crevice in the supports of the M6), Sandwell Valley and Valley Park (three pairs). Five territories were located on the Mons Hill CBC site, while breeding probably occurred at Erdington and Foleshill Gasworks. Noted all year at Bartley. Largest flocks comprised 21 in Sandwell Valley on April 6, 14 at Bilston on April 25 and 20 on Dunstall Park on June 4.

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus Warks A total of 406 logged on the summer bird count at BAD Kineton was the second highest figure since 1987. The best winter flocks were 1000 at Ches- terton, 1500 at Coombe and 500 at Freasley. Worcs Remains a very common breeding species. Winter flocks included 300 at Castlemorton Common on January 17, 500 at Oakley on 22 and 400 at Tlbberton on 31, with 470 there on February 28. There were also 400 at Holt on March 13 and 300 at Pirton Pool on April 8. In autumn, 600 were counted at Ockeridge Wood on October 25, 300 at Throckmorton on November 7 and 750 at Castlemorton Common on December 5. Staffs Early in the year, there were flocks of 1000 at Tixall Park on January 28, 500 at Ellihgton Grange on February 6 and up to 150 at Coombes Valley. In December, further counts included 200 at Belvide on 1, 300 south-west over Tittesworth on 5, and 500 at Fauld on 13 and in the Shugborough roost on 29. W Mid Still a very common bird. 14 territories were counted on the CBC plot at Mons Hill, one more than last year. Some high counts included 700 flying north-east over Wyken Slough in February, 600 at Wishaw in March, 400 at Knowle in December and an excellent 3150 counted flying in to roost at Saltwells Wood also in December. "Hundreds" were reported flying in to roost at Valley Park in late summer, but no accurate counts were made. Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Warks Possibly still increasing, at least in some areas. At BAD Kineton there were 15 pairs, the highest ever total from there. Most winter flocks contained less than 25 birds, so one of 225 near Wolston on October 29 was unusual. Worcs Breeding season reports from Abberton, Castlemorton Common, Hollybed Ruff at Chasewater. An exceptional autumn passage was experienced this year at the main reservoirs. September 1993. (Phill Ward)

This Jack Snipe was an unusual visitor to an Olton garden in October 1993. (B M Ward) Yellow Wagtail at Draycote. This attractive bird is in long-term decline in Britain as a whole but to what extent the Region has been affected is largely guesswork. April 1993. (Graham Soden)

Spotted Flycatcher at Priors Marston. Another summer migrant which seems to be in terminal decline in many districts. May 1993. (Graham Soden) 113

Common, Old Hills and Tibberton. Winter concentrations included 52 at Strensham Lagoons on January 17, 158 roosting on wires at on January 23 and 50 at Tibberton on February 14. In autumn, there wore 250 at Holly Green Farm near Upton on Severn on September 26, 56 at Abberton on November (5 and 300 at Bredon's Hardwick on December 18. Staffs A nest with two eggs found at Longton on March 21. No significant flocks noted. W Mid One occupied territory on the Mons Hill CBC plot, with breeding reported from Bartley, Sandwell Valley, Valley Park (status here unchanged), West Brom- wich and Wyken Slough (four pairs, a slight increase). Largest flocks com- prised 29 in a south Walsall garden in January (included two leucistic birds), 33 in Valley Park in April, 22 at Wyken Slough in July and 40 at Comets End in November. Two observers reported a slight decrease on the previous year in their areas. Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Average: April 26 (58) to September 24 (58) The first was at Strensham on April 25, followed by birds at Broughton Hackett and Little Comberton on 27, but most birds did not appear until early May. In the autumn there were several records after mid-September, the latest being at Tittesworth on 22. All records of this apparently rapidly declin- ing bird are required, particularly those concerning breeding pairs. Warks Again there were few records after May. Many observers expressed their concern over declining numbers and there were no records from some well watched areas. At BAD Kineton between 1987 and 1993, numbers have declined from the peak of 22 in 1989 down to only four this year. Probable breeding pairs at: Alvecote, Bidford-on-Avon (two), Coughton Park (four), Dosthill (three), Kingsbury (two), Thornhill Wood and Three Oak Hill Wood (two). Singles were also seen in summer at Bascote, Coldcomfort Wood, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Marlcliff, Offchurch, Spemall Park, Stretton-on- Dunsmore and Wellesbourne Wood. Ten at Bentley on May 16 may have been on passage. Worcs This species was again faithful to certain sites, notably Bredon's Hardwick, Callow Hill, Church Lench, Eckington, Holt, Kemerton, Little Comberton, Lower Moor, Ribbesford, Strensham, Throckmorton, Timberhonger and Upton Warren. Sight records were received from another 17 sites. Staffs Probable breeding birds at Branston GP (three on May 16), Elford (four on July 11), and Whitemoor Hay (four on May 24). Passage birds noted at Abbots Bromley (feeding with Collared Doves on bird seed), Lower Avenue at Chillington, Hixon, Pendeford Mill NR, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid One at Comets End on May 31, with two here on June 6 — an area in which breeding is a distinct possibility. Spring migrants were noted at Sandwell Valley on May 18 (two) and Fens Pools on May 20, whilst one heard in Sutton Park on June 15 was presumably a migrant (the observer's first record for this site). In the autumn, one at Brownhills Common on July 2, two in Sandwell Valley on July 19 and one here on September 16, with a good series of records from Wyken Slough where birds seen on July 27 (three), August 3 and 16 (two). 114

Ring-nocked Parakeet Psittacula krameri . Warks The female at Coombe from 1992 was present throughout the year, but became very elusive during the summer months. One flew uver Ploasanoe Farm, Kenilworth on January 21 and another was seen at Ladywalk on September 17. Staffs A male in a back garden at Stafford on September 10 and 11 was reported a few days later at Doxey. W Mid One at Wyken Slough on July 6.

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Average: April 10 (57) to September 4 (56) The first were reported from Draycote and Hams Hall on April 10, followed by Chillington, Tlbberton and West Hagley on 12. Many districts had arrivals in the period April 18 to 22. Few were seen in late summer, the last being a juvenile at Lower Moor on August 30. Warks Singles were heard in many areas but were thinly distributed. At BAD Kine- ton, 20 were counted on May 23, just short of the 1987-93 average. Worcs Reported from 22 sites during the summer months. Staffs Noted at 22 localities in the county, with most reports from the Moors and Cannock Chase. A juvenile was at Belvide in July. Four Reed Warbler nests were parasitised at Doxey, while two pairs bred at Coombes Valley. W Mid Calling birds, usually heard on just single dates, were reported from: Bartley, Cornets End, Dorridge, Hillwood Common Road in Sutton (April 21, with two on June 6), Knowle, Netherton Hill, Sandwell Valley (May 24, 31, June 1 and 20), Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park (May 7, 11 and 18), Wyken Slough and Valley Park.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Warks The three reported breeding pairs were all successful. One was found dead on the road at Bacon's End on January 18. Other winter records came from Brandon, Coombe, Lea Marston, near Offchurch, Southam and near Wals- grave, Coventry. Worcs Three breeding pairs were reported, two of which raised six young. Noted outside the breeding season at Bewdley, Churchill, Cookley, Great Witley, Guariford, Hanbury Park, Hartlebury, Larford, Redditch, Sheriffs Lench, Stourport Marina, Upton Warren and Westminster Farm. Staffs Bred at Aqualate. Isolated autumn/winter records came from Pendeford Mill NR, Stafford and Abbots Bromley, with a pair near the Mermaid PH for a week in February. A colour-ringed released bird was present at Tittesworth in April and May and again from November 26 to the end of the year. A single • report from Trentham Park in May. W Mid One at Sheepwash UP on June 1 may well have had suspect origins. One in the Bartley/Frankley area on September 8, while another hunted close to the eastern bypass at Walsgrave, Coventry on November 7. A ringed bird was found dead near Marston Green on November 20. 115

Little Owl Athene noctua Warks A common breeding bird in parks and on farmland with scattered mature deciduous trees. Recorded in the breeding season in about 30 areas. Worcs Reported from 26 widely scattered locations. Seven territories were recorded near Timberhonger. Staffs Well reported from at least 40 localities, about a third of them during the breeding season. Bred at Blithfield (a fledgling in the nest on July 1), Belvide (two pairs) and in a Fazeley garden. W Mid Probable breeding pairs at Bartley, Park Lime Pits and Sandwell Valley. Also noted in the breeding season at Bickenhill, Comets End and Sutton Coldfield. Autumn and winter records from Aldridge, near Earlswood, Fishley, Sheep- wash UP and Wood End Farm.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco Warks Very few records received but still regarded as fairly common, especially in rural areas. Five were heard at Bentley on February 14, while four pairs were resident at Coombe. Worcs Reported from 14 sites. Pairs bred at Abberton (two), Dodford, Happy Valley and in a nestbox at Knowles Coppice. Staffs Under-recorded. Noted at 18 localities, about half in the breeding season. Three pairs at Belvide and eight pairs at Coombes Valley. W Mid Confirmed breeding in Valley Park, where a pair raised two young at a tradi- tional site. Pairs were also resident at Mons Hill, Mushroom Green Marsh and Saltwells Wood. Regularly heard calling during the spring and summer at Marston Green and Solihull. Autumn and winter records from Coventry, near Earlswood and Sheldon.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Warks Some records are possibly being withheld, though it was undoubtably a poor year. The bird at Draycote late in 1992 was seen again on January 1. The only other record was of one at Knightcote on December 29. Staffs Single pairs raised three young on Cannock Chase and one young at Coombes Valley. A bird was also seen in June on the North Staffs Moors. The only records from the regular f?ark Hail roost site were up to five in January and three in February. Single birds were seen at Handsacre on February 15 and December 30, Rolleston-on-Dove on March 21, Norton Bridge on Octo- ber 9 and Thorncliffe on November 7. W Mid Singles in Sandwell Valley on October 14, November 16 and on an unspeci- fied date in December, were the only records received.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammea Warks There was a possible exodus of 1992 birds from the Coton area in the new year as only one was seen there up to January 31, when two were present. Good numbers were then maintained until the last records on March 27. 116

Half-monthly maxima in the Tame Valley:

Jan Feb Mai Oeyl Oct Nov Doc

1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 12 12

Dosthill/Kingsbury 1 2 2 2 3 1 Coton/Lea Marston 1 2 5 6 4 3 — 1 2 — 2 1— — Elsewhere, there were up to two at Chesterton during January, one at Curd- worth on January 31, one at Kineton on March 20 and possibly two at Gaydon in late April. An unusual record involved one flying purposefully west, high over Upper Shuckborough on May 29. In the second winter pefiOd triere were singles at Draycote on October 6 and December 6 and at Lighthorne on December 15. Worcs One was seen near Throckmorton on January 9 and again on February 14, 18 and March 25. Two birds showed well at Larford all through March. At Warndon, two were seen on March 10, with one still present on April 4. One was present at Grimley on March 18. At Little Comberton, two were present between March 31 and April 29, one of which visited Cropthorne Heath on April 29. Between October 8 and 16 one bird was seen over North Hill and Happy Valley, with two there on October 9. A bird was seen in headlights at Naunton Beauchamp on December 3 and another at Abberton on December 24. Staffs Monthly maxima at Swallow Moss:

J F M A M J J A s o N D

3 4 4 2 2 3 - 1 1 3 1 3 There was a good presence on the Moors this year, but no proof of breeding. Away from well-watched Swallow Moss, records came from: Lady Edge on January 7; Boarsgrove, one or two between February 7 and May 9; Bald- stone on April 1; Three Shires Head on April 4; Gib Tor on March 28 and April 20; Knotbury, between March 14 and May 3 (including a pair displaying); Morridge on May 23 and Goldsitch Moss on June 19. In the lowlands, regular records at Barton, with one or two until April 26 and again from November 1. At Yoxall, three on January 26, with one on 28 and six on 30. Isolated sight- ings came from Warwickshire Moor and the R. Anker at Tamworth on January 9, Branston WP on March 7 and at Belvide on May 2 and on September 25 and 26. W Mid Singles in Sandwell Valley on January 5 and 28, on several dates in February, April 30, October 17, 25 and November 8. One at Fens Pools on April 25.

Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Average: May 16 (51) to August 21 (38) First heard on Cannock Chase on May 21. Presumably the total here was again in the region of 30 pairs. Now the British population is beginning to increase once more, it may well be worth searching for it in some of its former haunts. 117

Staffs On Cannock Chase, churring males reported from: Abrahams Heights (five), Brindley Heath (two), Haywood Warren (five) and the Katyn Memorial/Anson Bank area (five). A churring bird was also reported from Downs on July 14 and one was heard near Park Hall CP for a short while.

Swift Apusapus Average: April 22 (59) to September 24 (59) First recorded at Tipton on April 20, with many records throughout the Region over the next three days. Autumn stragglers were widespread up to mid-Sep- tember. Several more appeared on September 26 and there was one at Ladywalk on 28. The latest however were seen on October .9, with one at Little Comberton and two at Shustoke. Warks Some big flocks were noted in May as a result of poor weather. At Draycote there were 1500 on 14,1200 on 15,1000 on 21 and 2000 on 30. On May 16 there were good numbers everywhere, with 600 at Dosthill, 800 at Draycote and 1000 at Kingsbury. 1200 were at Dosthill during a thunderstorm on 26, while 750 were at Shustoke on 27 and 29. Late summer gatherings are usually quite small, so 600 at Coton on July 26 is noteworthy. Worcs Breeding reported again in West Malvern, large flocks included: at Upton Warren, 150 on May 14, 250 on 25, 500 on 27 and 150 on July 27; and at Westwood, 450 on May 14, 500 on 16, 700 on 20 and 100 on 25. On the Malverns, 100 were over North Hill on May 18 and 135 on June 1, while 100 were over Midsummer Hill on June 4. Staffs The largest counts reported were: 3000 at Belvide in May 14, 230 at Whit- tington SF on July 31, 150 at Coombes Valley in August, 150 at Dosthill on May 16 and flocks of 100 at Doxey on June 21, August 3 and 6, and at Tlttes- worth on July 11. A partial albino was at Belvide in May for the fourth conse- cutive year and another was reported from Lichfield. W Mid No breeding data received. Seemingly fairly widespread throughout the County, with highest counts consisting of 150 at Wyken Slough on May 27, over 500 in Sandwell Valley during mid-summer, 150 over Roway Lane STW on July 17 and 164 moving south over Netherton Hill on July 18.

Kingfisher Alcedoatthis Warks Breeding season records from Alvecote, Bascote, Brandon, Coombe (two pairs), Dosthill, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Packington and Water Orton. Five were seen together at Brandon on August 29. Reported as being scarce now at Draycote where there were only a couple of sightings. Worcs Recorded during the breeding season at Bittell, Dowles Brook, Grimley, Ipsley, Mill Pond, Ribbesford, Shakenhurst, Upton Warren, West Hagley and Westwood. Noted outside the breeding season at ten other locations. Staffs Reported from about 30 localities, about ten of these during the breeding season. A pair which raised three young at Tlttesworth was the only proven breeding record submitted. W Mid Breeding was suspected south of Valley Park, where by early August three birds were present along the canal. The only other breeding season records came from Sandwell Valley in July and August, possibly relating to birds 118

having attempted to breed along the R. Tame. Also reported from: Bagley's Mill, Bradnock's Marsh, Cornets End, Edgbaston Park (two), Fens Pools, Handsworth Wood, Hayhead Wood, Hilltield Park, Khowie, Longford, Parkes Hall Pool, Perry Hall Park, Sheepwash UP, Solihull Lodge, Sutton Park (two), Walsall Arboretum and Wyken Slough (two).

Hoopoe Upupa epops A slight improvement in the five-year totals, averaging two a year.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 6 10 7 7 10 Warks Two spring records, both found by incredulous non-birders! One was in an Easenhall garden on the early date of March 3 ME and another on a roadside verge at Lowsonford on April 24 JEC.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla The best year since 1989 when five were seen. Most autumn records are associated with periods of easterly winds, so records tend to be less than annual.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. ol birds 8 12 4 13 12

Worcs One was seen in a Malvern Link garden on August 31 LAB and another fed on ants in an Abberley garden on September 2 and 3 RFB. Staffs Singles were at Swallow Moss on September 11 LW, JWt and Belvide from September 12 to 13, when it was found dead PKD, FCG. These are surpris- ingly, the first county records since 1984.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Warks Fairly numerous resident, especially so in the south of the county where it is not uncommon in gardens. Worcs Bred at Timberhonger and juveniles were seen in Happy Valley and at British Camp. Six birds were seen on North Hill on April 4 and seven were at Tibber- ton on August 1. Two females were at Upton Warren on October 28, one of which shared a fence post with a male Kestrel. Recorded at an additional 28. sites throughout the year. Staffs Well reported with records from 18 observers covering 34 localities, 15 of them during the breeding season. No less than 14 localities were in the moor- land fringe and white peak. W Mid Breeding was confimed only in Sandwell Valley (two or three pairs), but prob- ably took place at Cheswick Green, Comets End and Rushall Manor (near Park Lime Pits). Present throughout the year at Brownhills Common, Sutton Park and Valley Park, but with no breeding this year at the latter locality. Regularly recorded at Edgbaston Park in January and February, while more isolated records came from: Aldridge, Bartley, near Earlswood, Hayhead Wood, Hillfield Park, Marston Green, Penn, Walsgrave, Wergs (first garden 119

visit in over 30 years) and Wyken Slough (first locality record). Appears to be increasing.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Terry Parker)

Warks Fairly numerous resident. Three pairs present again at Coombe. Ten were seen in family parties at Brandon on June 10, indicating a productive breed- ing season. Up to four were seen together at the Ladywalk feeding stations. 120

Worcs Bred at Birchley Farm, along the Dowles Brook and at Timberhonger. Up to five were feeding daily in a garden at Dodford in both winter periods. Reported from a further 30 widely scattered localities during the year. Staffs Reported from at least 41 localities, half of them in the breeding season; with proof of breeding at Coombes Valley (three pairs), Tittesworth (two or three pairs), Brocton Coppice (two), Belvide and Sloopy Wood (Lichfield). W Mid Two or three pairs bred in Sandwell Valley. Breeding suspected at Dorridge, near Earlswood, Hayhead Wood, Sutton Park and Valley Park. It was reported as being common in the Knowle area and as present throughout the year at Bartley. Drumming was heard on Pype Hayes GC, while one territory was located on the Mons Hill CBC. Reported from a further 16 localities and noted as a frequent visitor to garden feeders.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor Warks Bred at Ansley Hall and Coombe (two pairs). Spring or summer records at: Brandon, Chesterton, Frog Hall, Ladywalk, Lighthorne, Middleton, Packing- ton, Packwood, Ryton Wood and Snitterfield. The Ladywalk records on March 7 and April 12 and 13 were the first there for four years. Worcs Bred at Astley Burf and Kemerton.Two juveniles were seen in the Wyre Forest on August 7. Recorded during the breeding season at Bayton, Birl- ingham, Callow Hill, Chase End Hill, Dowles Brook (two pairs), Drayton, Eckington, Hadley Poplars, Hanley Castle, Hornhill Wood, Old Hills Common, Shrawley Wood, Tibberton and Westwood. At other times of year noted at; Alvechurch, Bittell, Braziers Coppice, Bredon's Hardwick, Castlemorton Common, Crowle, Droitwich, The Gullet, Hewell Park Lake, Knightwick-on- Teme, Larford, Oakley, Oddingley, Stourport Marina, Temple Dingle, Tibber- ton, Timberhonger and Trench Wood. Staffs Reported from 16 sites, nine of them in the breeding season. Presumably resident at Blithfield where noted in April (up to three), May, September and October; yet only six records from this well watched site indicates how easily this species is overlooked. A nest with young at Lower Avenue, Chillington was the only proof of breeding. Other spring reports came from Belvide, Coombes Valley, Consall Wood, Copmere, Himley, Stone House Hotel, Tam- worth and Tittesworth. W Mid Two birds observed chasing each other in Edgbaston Park in late March was the only reported sign of breeding activity. A male was heard drumming and calling in Valley Park on April 2, 21 and May 1, with another noted on Sep- tember 25. Sandwell Valley produced sightings on January 1, March 21, November 15, 21 and December 25. A bird was heard drumming and calling in Handsworth Wood on February 2. Singles at Tidbury Green on April 23, Stoke Floods on June 9 and Dorridge on September 20.

Skylark Aiauda arvensis Warks Some welcome breeding information was received from two areas: At Wals- grave Hill, 14 singing males were estimated on 1 km2 of mixed arable fields. At BAD Kineton where much of the habitat remains eminently suitable, the mean population during 1987-93 was 65 birds. In 1993,68 singing birds were 121

noted on the BOS summer count there. Some observers were clearly looking out for autumn flocks, not least because they often attract unusual raptors. The best flocks were as follows: 200 at Grandborough on October 22 and 300 on 31; 200 at Church Lawford on November 21 and at Tysoe on 12; and 150 at Ansty and Bramcote on December 6 and 7 respectively. Significant move- ments were noted at Brandon and Draycote during October with at least 50 birds per hour, generally moving south-east or south-west, on 3, 12 and 18. Worcs No change in breeding status noted. During winter, 50 were noted at Aston Mill Pit and 30 at Longdon Marsh on January 3. In autumn several larger counts were reported, with 80 on Bredon Hill on October 16 and 90 at Oldfield on 23. During November, 80 were recorded at Bredon's Hardwick on the 20, followed by 80 at Doverdale and 120 at Church Lench on 21. A flock of 75 were seen at Hill End on December 27 with 80 at Tibberton on the same date, while 100 were noted at Upton Warren next day. Staffs Ten in song at Camp Hill on February 6. Largest winter flocks were 200 at Trescott on January 3, 83 at Barton GP on November 7 and 52 at Cat Holme on December 28. Passage included 100 at Crossplains on September 25, 60 east at Barton on October 17, 40 over Belvide on September 29 and 25 at Warwickshire Moor on October 15. W Mid Breeding season territories at: Aldridge (two), Dunstall Park (four), Hillfield Park (two or three), Knowle (the observer believes numbers are steadily reducing), Park Lime Pits, Pelsall North Common (eight or nine), Sandwell Valley (at least 12), Stubber's Green, Sutton Park and Valley Park (two). Absent for the first time as a breeding bird at Wyken Slough. Notable flocks comprised 42 in fields off Bosty Lane, Aldridge from January to March, 25 on the old steelworks at Springvale, Bilston on February 14, at least 75 near Over Green on October 1 and 30 at Park Lime Pits on October 22. Few movements are recorded these days, but on October 10 there were 100 south over Wyken Slough in an hour and 30 over Sutton Park. On November 4 there were 200 south-west at Wyken Slough and 300 west over Wood- shires Green.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Average: March 21 (58) to October 10 (58) A bird at Westwood on March 10 was the first in spring, closely followed by others at Belvide, Larford and Sandwell Valley on 12. Main migration started from the 21. Few remained into October, the latest being singles at King- standing on 7 and Belvide on 15. Warks Unfortunately there were no breeding records received for Brandon or Lady- walk, where last year there were 24 and 30 nests. Presumably smaller numbers did breed but annual figures would be welcome. One partial suc- cess this year was the appearance of two pairs at Water Orton. Sadly des- troyed by floods, this was the first breeding attempt there for at least 12 years. Slightly fewer were recorded, both in spring and autumn. In spring, six flocks of over 70 were noted. 150 was the peak, at Kingsbury on April 26. 100 were present there on April 20 and May 1. At Draycote, there were 100 on April 29 and 125 on June 6. In late summer 100 roosted at Ladywalk on July 21 and 122

at Brandon on August 3. Wcvcs Prpssnt during the breeding season at Aston Mill Pit (six nest holes), Bewd- ley, Grimley (45 nest holes), Kinsham GP (89 nest holes), and at various sites along the R. Teme. The largest spring concentrations included 90 at West- wood on April 18, 100 at Wilden on April 23 and 40 at Bredon's Hardwick on April 25. Staffs Occupied nest holes recorded at Leek Brook Industrial Estate (80), Croxden GP (14) and the R. Dove at Marchington (ten). Counts reported included 200 at Belvide on April 9, 200 at Croxall on April 20 and 100 at Branston GP on March 31. W Mid At the Comets End colony, it was thought that 158 holes were occupied which is yet another increase on the previous year (135 in 1992, 90 in 1991). Quite a scarce bird on spring and autumn passage, highest counts being 20 in Sandwell Valley on April 20 and 25 over Longmoor pool in Sutton Park on July 3. Small numbers of less than ten were reported from a further ten sites.

Swallow Hirundo rustica Average: March 31 (59) to November 2 (59) A bird at Upton Warren on March 23 heralded an early arrival, with wide- spread records between March 27 and 31. Birds did not linger late in autumn, most having left by early October. A few hung on up to 20, with the latest being two at Draycote on 27. Warks Numbers remain extremely low at many sites. A maxima of only 100 was noted at Brandon. Autumn numbers were up from last year but still a long way short of past totals (see 1992 Report). All flocks of 75 or more are given: 300 at Ladywalk on August 8, 150 at Chesterton on 9, 350 at Radway on Sep- tember 7, 300 at Draycote on 10, 200 at Lea Marston on 14 and 75 at Alve- cote on 16. Worcs Breeding numbers reported to be 30% down in the Tlmberhonger area. 250 at Upton Warren on August 8 and 120 at Murcot on September 15 were the largest parties recorded. Staffs Spring flocks included 80 at Belvide on April 11,100 at Doxey on 13 and 450 at Tittesworth on 25. Among autumn counts were: 250 at Tittesworth on August 18,150 at Coombes Valley in September, 60 at Pendeford Mill NR on September 10,100 moving south over Belvide on 20, and 75 passing through Blithfield during rain showers on October 2. Very few roosted at Betley Mere this year. W Mid Breeding was noted at Bartley, Sandwell Valley and Valley Park (at least three pairs here, despite the recent loss of old outbuildings and sheds), while 11 young birds were being fed on wires near Aldridge GC and 33 (over 20 juveniles) were on a fence at Berkswell Hall on July 23. More breeding infor- mation would be appreciated. Generally small numbers were noted on both passages, the more notable counts being 40 in Sandwell Valley on April 23, 30 moving east over Woodshires Green on September 13, 180 moving south over Netherton Res. in ninety minutes on September 19 and 40 at Wyken Slough on September 21. Late flocks of 32 on October 8 and 35 on 10 moved south-east at the latter locality. 123

House Martin Delichon urbica Average: April 7 (59) to November 1 (59) A very early bird at Brandon on March 19, was the precursor of a generally early arrival. Birds appeared at a number of sites during March 27 to April 1. In contrast few stayed beyond mid-October, the latest coming from New Oscott on 29, apart from a very late bird at Brandon on November 29. Warks Unlike the two previous species, numbers appear to have remained stable over the last 15 years. Breeding information is, however, always poorly reported. Flocks of 200 at Seeswood on May 20 and 600 at Dosthill/ Kingsbury during a thunderstorm on 26 were good numbers for spring. Autumn flocks of 200 or more numbered eight: Draycote, 500 on September 10, 700 on 12 and 350 on 19. Up to 250 were at Ladywalk from July 24 to 27, while at Shustoke there were 300 on September 3, 500 on 13 and 400 on 15 feeding low in heavy rain. On the latter date some were being pursued by Pied Wagtails to such a degree that one was knocked into the water, where it drowned after being repeatedly mobbed by three wagtails, flying in turn from the nearby bank. Worcs No breeding data received. In spring, 200 were seen at Upton Warren on May 14 and 100 at Lower Bittell on May 20. 200 were present at Westwood on May 16, with 150 still present there on 25. The largest autumn gathering numbered 100 at Tlbberton on August 31. Staffs hailed to arrive and breed in the usual places at Anslow this year. The first breeding birds arrived back at their nests in Newborough on May 4. Large spring counts included 500 at Belvide (May 26), 450 at Tittesworth and 100 at Westport, while "uncountable numbers" were present at Doxey as early as April 13. Autumn flocks included 100 at Coombes Valley in July, 200 at Blith- field on August 22 and 100 at both Silverdale and Belvide (moving south) on September 20. W Mid Breeding reported from: Aldridge (numbers said to be lower than in previous years), Bartley area, Bickenhill, the southern edge of Fowlers Park, the peri- phery of Sandwell Valley, the Valley Park area (numbers appeared stable) and Woodshires Green (15 pairs). Largest flocks comprised 120 at Wyken Slough on May 27, 80 at Berkswell Hall on July 23, 60 in Sandwell Valley on September 8 and 150 in Perry Hall Park on 20. A leucistic bird was noted at Fens Pools on June 19, while a juvenile at Wyken Slough on September 19 had virtually no white rump (see Short Notes):

Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelartdiae The first in the Region since 1967, when a large autumn influx into Britain brought one to Upton Warren and up to three to Blithfield during October and November. One of the other two acceptable records was also in early spring (April 8 1963). Staffs One at Mow Cop from March 14 to April 3 AGG, AL et al. Usually feeding on the Cheshire side of the border, it also made occasional forays into Stafford- shire. A large dark, well-marked pipit, which when alert stood erect on long legs, chest out and neck and head up. The bill was large and heavy, all dark apart from the lower mandible which was flesh-coloured for two-thirds of its length. Noticeable thick whitish super- 124

Richard's Pipit (Phi! Jones)

cilium, streaked dark-brown forehead and white throat. Broad necklace of thin short streaking across the upper-breast, clean white lower-breast and belly, buff flanks and vent. Grey-brown mantle, with darker-centred median coverts. Tail very long, showing white outer feathers. Very long hind claw and tarsus. Call, a very distinctive double "schreep".

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Average: April 7 (56) to September 20 (54) A very early bird was at Draycote on March 26, otherwise apart from two or three from April 2 most firsts came in the period April 10 to 15. The last in autumn was at Wyken Slough on September 23. Warks The best concentration was at BAD Kineton where seven were present on May 23. Other singing males were noted at Bentley, Ridge Lane, Wappen- bury Wood and Wellesbourne Wood. Singles over Draycote on March 26 and April 2 were very early. Later migrants were seen at Kingsbury on April 25 (two) and Kenilworth on May 11. In autumn, there were further singles at Kenilworth on July 12 and August 6, Chesterton on 9 and Draycote on September 18. Worcs Singing birds were noted at Coldridge Wood, Callow Hill (three), Dowles Brook (six), Holywell, Happy Valley (three), and Lickey (four). Passage mig- rants were noted at Upton Warren on April 13, and near Alvechurch on April 24. Staffs Spring migrantis at Crossplains on April 6, R. Dove on 10 and Rudyard on 13. Singing males reported from: Cannock Chase (Katyn Memorial, Seven Springs, Sherbrook Valley and Stepping Stones), Coombes Valley (ten pairs bred, the same as last year), Highgate Common (five), the Roaches, Swallow Moss and Tittesworth. A bird flew over Blithfield on August 27. 125

WMid Two territories in Sutton Park, but no data on breeding success. The only spring passage birds were in Sandwell Valley, where two were present on April 19 and. 20, one on 21, two more on 26 and a final bird on May 6. More widespread in the autumn, with the first birds at Netherton Hill on August 15 (two), followed by two on September 11. Singles were in Sandwell Valley on August 18 and in September, with further singles reported from Sheepwash UP on August 21 and 27. One in Valley Park on August 31, with small numbers reported passing over in early September. At Wyken Slough, three different birds were noted on four dates between September 19 and 23.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Warks Probable breeding pairs at Coventry Airport (Baginton), Dosthill (six), Gaydon and Lighthome (two). One was singing in suitable breeding habitat at Bran- don on June 4. In spring, a marked passage was noted at Ladywalk from mid- March to early April with up to 20 present on the lagoons. 40 per hour moved north-west over Chesterton on April 2 and 50 per hour north over Napton Res. on 10. 100 were at Draycote on March 28. In autumn, a passage was observed over Draycote on September 22, with 140 south-west in two hours, while next day 100 moved south at Kingsbury. Small parties of up to 20 were also noted moving south over Packington on 23 and 24. In October, 100 were seen at Draycote on 3 and a maximum of 120 at Wiggins Hill between 5 and 10. Worcs Breeding pairs noted at Hartlebury Common, Malvern Common, North Hill, Tibberton (two), Walton Hill (three) and Wells Common. Peak numbers were recorded in March, April, and October. Notable spring counts included 75 on North Hill on March 14, 60 at Bishampton on 21, with 60 at Tibberton and 250 at Malvern on 27. 60 were still present on North Hill on April 10. In autumn, 50 were seen at Ryall on October 2, 100 on Sugar Loaf on 3 and 50 at Holt on 23. Staffs Plentiful in the breeding season on Cannock Chase and the North Staffs Moors. Winter counts included 40 at Doxey on January 1 and 150 at Belvide on December 16. Spring passage was conspicuous during late March, with 1000 at Blithfield on 20, 80 at Tittesworth, 50 at Crossplains and 50 moving over Armitage on 28. Autumn peaks of 500 at Tittesworth on September 26, 100 at Park Hall CP on October 10 and 100 at Belvide on 25. WMid Breeding reported from Sutton Park (Longmoor Valley being the favoured area), with display noted at Wishaw in mid-May. Highest counts in the first winter period comprised 24 in Fowlers Park on February 24, 30 at Lower Gornal STW on March 12 and 100 in Sandwell Valley on March 21. In the autumn, 50 were in Sutton Park on October 2, 81 moved south over Nether- ton Hill on 10, 20 at Comets End on 23 and 40 in Sandwell Valley on November 29. A good autumn passage was reported from Wyken Slough, with a peak of 250 south in two hours on October 10 and 55 grounded during heavy rain on 13.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Warks It was a better year than average, especially at Draycote.-Singles were noted on March 19 and 20, April 1, September 26, October 3, 10, 22 and 28, 126

November 1, 5 and 6, with two on October 8. How many of these dates involved the same bird is impossible to say. Shustoke also enjoyed a good spell with one on September 21 and 20, two on October 11 and 'hrpp nn 17 One was at Coton on October 30. Worcs In spring one was seen at Wilden on April 11. Autumn records came from Upton Warren, where singles were noted on October 14 and 25, with two birds present on November 9. Two were also at Bittell on October 20. Staffs One in the spring, at Blithfield on March 28. In autumn, singles at Blithfield from September 30 to October 3, on 6, 15 to 27 and November 20, with two on October 16 and three on 24. Also in October, two at Chasewater on 10, with one on 31; one at Barton on 17 and one at Belvide on 25. W Mid An elusive bird in Sandwell Valley on March 9, with this or another from 20 to 24. One briefly at Fens Pools on November 6.

"Scandinavian" Rock Pipit A. p. littoralis Worcs Birds showing the characteristics of this race were at Bittell on October 21 SMW and Upton Warren on November 8 GHP, WPP, SMW.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta Average: October 9 (1) to April 25 (1) Five-year totals may be levelling out, with a constant 16 to 20 birds seen annually since 1989.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 38 51 67 81 89 Warks As many as 11 different birds could have been involved in the following records; all from Draycote or Kingsbury/Dosthill. In the Dosthill area, one on January 3 and 30 and then regularly from February 14 to March 16 JAA etal. Two were present there on March 21 JAA. One was at Canal Pool, Kingsbury on April 25 JJB. At Draycote, singles on March 6 RCM, from April 3 to 5 RCM et al and on 23 JJB. In October, there were singles at Dosthill on 9, 16 and 17 and at Coton, also on 16 JAA. The only autumn record at Draycote was on October 30 DM. Worcs Spring passage birds were seen at Westminster Farm, with one on April 7 JHB and Lower Moor, with two briefly on April 13 GHP. Staffs One at Branston WP on March 27 TB. Two at Barton GP on October 17 ICW and one at Belvide on December 1 SAR.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima Average: April 1 (57) to October 11 (57) Early birds were seen at Draycote on March 28 and Upton Warren on 29 but most firsts came in the period April 4 to 10. The latest birds were at Draycote on October 10 and Blithfield on 16. This is another bird which still appears to be declining quite swiftly, therefore all breeding records should be reported, stating the number of pairs involved. Warks Bred at Alvecote, Coombe, Draycote (three pairs), Grandborough and Kings- bury. At BAD Kineton six were recorded on the BOS summer count, which is 127

about the average for 1987-93. Passage numbers were better, especially in autumn. The following numbers all refer to Draycote, no worthwhile flocks were reported elsewhere: 70 on April 13, 100 on 23, 55 on August 16, 65 on 27, 70 on 31 and 130 on September 12. Worcs Bred at Upton Warren, with breeding season records from Kings Green, Little Witley, Prickley Green, Stanford on Teme and Strensham. Spring passage was poor with low numbers in most areas and peak counts of nine at Larford on April 9 and 28 at Bredon's Hardwick on 25. Autumn maxima included 22 at Bishampton Vale Pool on August 14 and 18 at Grimley on 15. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from Belvide, Blithfield, Crossplains (four, the highest total in eight years) and Tlttesworth (six). During spring passage, counts included 30 at Blithfield on April 11, six at Chasewater on 17, eight at Aqua- late on 25 and 20 west over Belvide on May 1. Autumn passage flocks included 100 at Blithfield on August 14 and 30 at Crossplains on September 11. WMid Confirmed breeding in the Wishaw area, while two in the Hillwood Common Road area of Sutton Coldfield on May 19 may also have been nesting. Generally scarce on spring passage, the largest numbers recorded being five at Wyken Slough on April 19,18 in Sandwell Valley on 23 (noted on 25 dates here during spring, a welcome resurgence after several dismal years), three at Sheepwash UP on May 4 (only noted on five dates in spring, a sharp decline for a species which bred here in 1987) and five at Cornets End on 9. Noted at a further six sites in spring. In autumn, only Dunstall Park/Valley Park provided a reasonable count, with ten birds logged in August and six in September. Elsewhere, a maximum of five at Wyken Slough on September 3 and singles at Iverley, in the Netherton area, Sheepwash UP and Sandwell Valley.

Blue-headed Wagtail M. f. flava Warks A male at Draycote on April 10 MDB, PJF, with a different individual present on 11 MDB, RCM, JIV and a female on May 6 MD. A male at Shustoke on May 9 and 10 BLK. A male at Kingsbury on April 25 appeared to show characteristics indicative of a hybrid JJB.

Spanish Wagtail M. f. iberiae Staffs A male at Tlttesworth showing characteristics of this race was seen on May 16 JO, PAWetal.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Warks Summer records and in some cases successful breeding reported from: Bas- cote, Combrook, Earlswood, Leamington, Marlcliff, Seeswood, Water Orton and Whatcote. Winter records from many areas throughout the county. Worcs Three pairs noted during the breeding season along Dowles Brook with one pair raising two young. Also seen during the summer months at Frankley, Laugherne Brook, Lower Moor, along the Rivers Rea and Teme, Shakenhurst Brook (two pairs), Upton Warren and Wilden. Reported widely outside the breeding season from 18 well scattered localities. 128

Staffs Widely reported outside the breeding season, with seven at .Rolleston-on- Dove on January 2. Three pairs bred at Tittesworth, one at Consall Wood and one almost certainly at Blithfield. Noted in the breeding season at several other sites. W Mid Breeding reported from Fens Pools, Frankley and the Sheepwash UP area. Other pairs probably did so in central Birmingham (two), Mons Hill and on the Birmingham Canal in Wolverhampton, with early May records from Plants Brook and Sutton Park. Recorded at a further 24 sites outside the breeding season, with several garden records. Highest counts comprised seven on Netherton Hill on October 10, eight in Valley Park on September 26 and a peak of seven south-west over Wyken Slough on October 1. There was a good autumn passage at the latter locality, with a total of 4U moving in a mainly south-west/south-east direction between September 1 and November 8.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii Warks Two pairs bred at Alvecote. Numbers at BAD Kineton were higher this year than tor some time. On the BOS summer count 12 pairs were found, the aver- age for 1987-93 being four. A regular roost gathers in Leamington Spa town centre and 75 were present there on February 22. Up to 40 were noted in spring at Ladywalk, while 80 on April 16 was the best spring count at Dray- cote. There were three counts in excess of 100 at Draycote in autumn: 120 on August 7,115 on September 8 and 140 on September 12. Worcs Breeding only reported from Hadley and Upton Warren. The largest flocks were 75 at Grimley on August 28, 85 at Bishampton Vale Pool on October 6 and 60 at Droitwich on October 25. Staffs A major roost in willows near the A500 in Stoke totalled 1500 on October 13, 2200 on 17 and 1600 on 22. Feeding parties on reservoir mud included 92 at Belvide on July 13, with 115 on August 8 and 140 at Blithfield on September 19. W Mid Breeding reported from Fowlers Park, Knowle, Sandwell Valley and Wyken Slough. Some impressive counts outside the breeding season included a minimum of 700 at Dunstall Park on January 23 (averaging 450 throughout January), 210 on Tesco's car park, Dudley on January 27, 50 at Ray Hall SF on March 6, 40 at Edgbaston Res. on September 17, 53 on the old Walsall airfield on October 1 and 132 over Oldbury town centre on December 10. Birds were also reported flying over Dunstall Park in autumn and winter to a major roost in Wolverhampton town centre, apparently "hundreds" were gathering on the Civic Hall and council offices.

White Wagtail M. a. alba Warks A flush of early records involved singles at Maxstoke on March 12, Brandon on 15 and Hams Hall/Ladywalk on 15 and 24. The main arrival took place from April 2, when two were at Draycote. Up to three were then at Draycote until 16 and four at Dosthill on 15. Between 17 and 19 there were up to 14 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area and 16 at Draycote. There were still 12 at Dray- cote on April 23, six on 25 and one on May 2. In autumn, three were identified 129

at Draycote: on September 12 (two) and October 27 (one) JJB. Worcs One at Bredon's Hardwick on April 6 had increased to three between 17 and 24. Singles were at Wilden on April 12, Upton Warren on 18 to 19 and Stoke Bliss on 24. Staffs First noted at Tlttesworth, where one stayed from March 28 to April 10, with others there on 18, 21 (three) and 22. Other singles at: Westport on April 1, 10, 12, 21 and May 2; Belvide on April 6 and 22; Kingswood on 4, Branston on 18, Chasewater on 11, Blithfield on 24, Gailey on 25 and Morridge on May 2. W Mid Recorded in Sandwell Valley on March 28, April 11 to 18 (max. four on 12), 23 and 30; with others at old Walsall airfield on April 10, Bartley on 17, Fens Pools on 20 (two) and Netherton Hill on May 5.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus gularis Warks No records. Many of the last known sites around Shipston-on-Stour were searched this year but with negative results. Worcs Three pairs bred successfully along the Dowles Brook where five territories were held. There were two pairs present during the breeding season on the R. Rea near Bayton. Staffs Noted in the breeding season at Coombes Valley (pair raised two young), Danebridge, Greenway Bank CP (adult with newly hatched juvenile on June 5), Okeover, the R. Churnet at Rakes Dale and on the R. Churnet at Tlttes- worth (failed to breed). Reports also came from the R. Dove, while one on the R. Trent at Stone on September 10 was unusual there.

Black-bellied Dipper C. c. cinclus Warks An example of the North European nominate race, the first for the region, was present on the R. Anker at Weddington, Nuneaton from around mid-Novem- ber into 1994 RED et al. Although not specifically identified until March 1 1994 it was seen and described sufficiently well, by local people. Details as British race, but the bird had a total lack of any chestnut colouration between the white breast and the under-belly, which was much darker in tone.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Numbers appear to have quickly recovered after the sharp drop in population experienced during the frosts of early 1991. Warks On the BOS summer count at BAD Kineton, 76 were counted, the best total since 1990. Also an increase of about 20% was noted at Coombe this year. Both these records show an increased survival rate after a succession of mild winters. The lowest total at BAD Kineton (26) in the last seven years was in 1991, following a very cold snap in the first two weeks of February. Worcs Breeding reported at Dodford and Lynalls Coppice. 34 singing males (cf. 35 in 1992,24 in 1991) were recorded at Old Hills and 19 at Shortwood Roughs. 22 were counted in Happy Valley on May 21. Staffs 108 pairs (cf. 103 in 1992, 91 in 1991) reported from Coombes Valley, 67 pairs at Tlttesworth, and up to 26 singing males at Belvide. Several pairs bred at Warwickshire Moor, while a pair nested in a hide at Blithfield. 130

W Mid 48 territories were located on the CBC plot at Mons Hill (cf. 42 in 1992), while 88 cnnntprl along Valley Park on their census day of April 18 also shows an increase (65 in April 1992). Reported as being present in "very good numbers" in Sutton Park.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Warks Seems to have followed the same pattern as Wren at BAD Kineton, with a recovery from a recent low in 1991 (13) to 22 singing males. Worcs Six pairs were counted at Happy Valley, while 15 singing males (cf. 14 in 1992, 17 in 1991) were noted at Old Hills and two at Shortwood Roughs. Staffs Very few reports. Maximum of six at Ashwood. Evidence of eruptive behaviour came from Crossplains in late September and October. W Mid 15 territories on the Mons Hill CBC plot (cf. eight in 1992). No change in status reported from Valley Park, with a total of 48 birds counted on Sep- tember 26 (most probably some way below the real total). 20 pairs were estimated at Wyken Slough, where there was evidence of some westerly movement during September/October (including a party of six flying high up into the air, circling and then moving off west, early on September 26).

Robin Erithacus rubecula Like the Wren, the population seems to have recovered after a temporary drop in early 1991. Why the total fell so sharply at Coombes Valley the follow- ing year remains unclear. Warks Maxima of 37 at Brandon and 48 at Coombe. An increase was reported at Coombe and also at BAD Kineton, where a count of 42 in May was 27% up on the mean count for 1987-93. Worcs Counts included 24 singing males at The Gullet, 33 at Old Hills (cf. 32 in 1992, 20 in 1991) and 14 at Shortwood Roughs. Staffs A slight recovery at Coombes Valley with 36 pairs (cf. 32 in 1992, 60 in 1991, 66 in 1990). Ten singing males at Belvide in spring, with 24 there on October 24. 15 at Ashwood on October 2. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot 38 territories were located (cf. 28 in 1992). During the Valley Park census count of September 26, 73 birds were counted (cf. 52 in 1992). One was reported flying around a Brierley Hill warehouse at night during the winter and setting off the security alarms.

Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Average: April 19 (59) to July 31 (17) The first was heard at BAD Kineton on April 15, slightly earlier than average. Warks Singing males heard at: Bascote (two), Bowshott Wood, Compton Verney, Idlicote, BAD Kineton (max. five), Old Nun Wood, and Roundhill Wood. Totals at BAD Kineton are in a gradual decline from a recent peak of 11 birds in 1989. Worcs A continuing decline in breeding pairs evident. Singing birds noted at Church Lench, Defford, Hawford Wood, Old Hills, Ripple (four), Trench Wood (only two, cf. six in 1992, seven in 1991, 11 in 1989) and Yeald Wood. A juvenile was recorded at Storridge Common during July. 131

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros If indeed there was only one nesting pair in the Region in 1993, the species imminent demise as a regular breeding bird may only be a matter of time. Warks A female was at Draycote on March 13 and 14 MDB et al., with an immature or female at Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth on July 7 and 8 PFA. Worcs A female or immature was present on North Hill from March 27 to 29 MJI, GJM and another above St. Annes Well on December 26 MM. Staffs The male at Fradley from 1992 remained until January 5 several observers. Single females were at Blithfield on April 11 SN et aland Berryhill, Stoke-on- Trent on April 15 AL,with a first-summer male at Chasewater on July 10 ICW. W Mid One pair bred in Hockley, Birmingham raising two broods many observers. Spring migrants were reported from Fens Pools on March 28 and 29 SE, BMM, Bartley on March 30 (a pair) JHB, AN and Duns'tall Park on April 13 AD. A female/immature was on waste ground between and Willenhall on December 26 JR. 1992 Corrigendum Worcs The female at Long Marston depot on November 3 was actually on the Wor- cestershire side of the County boundary RHJN.

Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus

Redstart (John Teasdale)

Average: April 10 (57) to September 24 (56) An early bird at Brocton Coppice on April 4, was followed by several scattered records on 10, a more usual arrival date. Last seen at Bredon Hill on Sep- tember 24 and Valley Pa.rk on 25. Judging from available data 1993 was a better year than of late. 132

Warks A Lillington garden was the best place for this species, with a male on April 10 and a juvenile on August 19. A male graced Ladywalk between July 24 and August 1, a juvenile was at Draycote on August 9 and others not aged or sexed, were at Tysoe on April 19, The Somers on September 6 and at Draycote on 17. Worcs Singing males were recorded at: Bayton (six), Bredon Hill (seven), Callow Hill (two), Far Forest, Hanley Childe, Hanley William, Lickey (two), Longdon Marsh, Malvern Wells, Mamble, Romer's Wood, Shakenhurst (three) and Wissetts Wood. Ten singing males along a two km stretch of Dowles Brook represented an increase in numbers over recent years. Spring passage birds were reported from Happy Valley/North Hill, Upton Warren and Wilden. On autumn passage, birds appeared at Aston Mill Pit, Tibberton and Upton Warren, where there was a maximum of four on August 6. Staffs Singing males/pairs reported from: Brocton Coppice (six), Coombes Valley (34 pairs, an increase from 25 in 1992; 112 were noted here in June), Eccles- hall, Gun Hill, Hawkesmoor Wood (19), Haywood Warren (six), Rudyard (six) and Seven Springs. Autumn passage birds were noted in August at Belvide, Blithfield, Tittesworth and Westport. Three were seen at Blithfield on Sep- tember 17. W Mid Spring migrants were reported from: Fens Pools on April 19 and 22, Fishley on April 10, Park Lime Pits on April 16 and 17, and Sandwell Valley on April 10,17 and 24. Autumn birds were seen at: Fens Pools, on August 12,24,28, September 7 (three) and 12 (two); Fishley, on July 18, August 1, 15, 18 and September 6; Park Lime Pits on September 17; Sandwell Valley, on August 16, 17, 31, September 5 and 11 (two); Sheepwash UP, on July 22 and from August 13 to 23 (up to three); Valley Park on September 25, and finally Wyken Slough, on August 12 and September 17.

Whinchat Saxicola rubefra Average: April 23 (57) to October 5 (53) One at Valley Park on April 12 and 13 was the first in spring. It was next seen at Draycote on 17, followed by a more general arrival between 20 and 23. In autumn only one was seen after September 30; at Dosthill on October 2. Apart from a pair or two still hanging on at Kineton, regular breeding by this once widespread bird now seems to be restricted to the region of the North Staffs Moors. Warks Bred at BAD Kineton. Spring passage noted at Brandon, Draycote (two) and Walsgrave Hill between April 17 and 25. An early post-breeding dispersal was noted, with birds at Alcester on July 14 and Pleasance Farm (two) on 19. Otherwise, autumn migrants were noted from August 8 until October 2. Five at Chadshunt on August 28 preceded a notable movement between Sep- tember 5 and 8. On 5 there were seven at Tysoe, on 7 four at both Brandon and Pleasance Farm, while on 8, numbers at Brandon had increased to 12. Elsewhere, one or two were recorded at Dosthill, Draycote, Radway and Stratford. Worcs Spring passage birds were recorded from Bishampton, Ipsley Alders, Tlmber- honger (up to three) and Upton Warren. Autumn birds occurred at Bredon's 133

Hardwick (max. four on August 15), Upton Warren, and Bredon Hill (two on September 24). Staffs Four broods of newly-fledged young were on the Roaches on July 4. Prob- able breeding was recorded at Boarsgrove, Flash, Knotbury, Swallow Moss and Tittesworth, but no records were received from Cannock Chase. Spring passage birds were only recorded at Belvide and Crossplains. More were seen in autumn, with maxima of seven at Belvide on August 20 and five at Crossplains on 30. One or two also reported from Blithfield, Dosthill, Doxey, Sherbrook Valley, Westport and Wychnor Junction. IV Mid Apart from an early migrant at Valley Park on April 12 and 13, spring passage was noted from April 20 to May 24 at: Cheswick Green, Fens Pools, Frankley (two), Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley (max. three on April 21) and Sheep- wash UP (max. two). In autumn, recorded from July 16 to September 30, with most in the latter month. Records came from: Fens Pools, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Pelsall North Common (three on September 2 and 11), Sandwell Valley (max. three on July 22), Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park (max. two) and Wyken Slough.

Stonechat Saxicola torquata This species has benefitted from a series of mild winters. Warks A strong presence again in both winter periods but no sign of re-establishing a breeding status. In spring, birds were present until March 13 and in autumn, from September 30. The well-watched areas of Draycote and the Tame Valley provided the bulk of the records but in the first winter period at least, there were many well distributed records elsewhere: Ardens Grafton (pair), Bran- don (pair), Chesterton (pair), Radway, Tysoe, Warton and Wasperton (pair). Up to three were seen at Dosthill and two at Draycote, all on a regular basis. Apart from an early one at Dosthill on September 30, birds returned to Dosthill and Draycote on October 9, with a pair at both sites until the end of the year. Occasionally other individuals appeared for short periods of time. At Dosthill, there where four different birds involved and at Draycote, an addi- tional female was present from November 28. Up to three were seen at Brandon from October 14 and there were singles at Grandborough Fields and Whatcote. Worcs A pair raised four young in two broods on the Malverns. Wintering birds were seen at Ashmoor Common, Bredon's Hardwick (up to three in February), Castlemorton Common (two), Claines, Crowle, Doverdale (two), Grimley (three in January), Throckmorton, Upton Warren and Wilden and a probable spring passage bird was seen at Kempsey on April 15. A strong autumn passage was noted, with peak counts of seven in the Happy Valley/North Hill area of the Malverns on October 4, with six again there on November 4. Other autumn records were received from Abberton, Ashmoor Common (two), Bredon's Hardwick (two), Bredon Hill, Castlemorton Common (two), Crowle, Fairfield Quarry, Lower Moor (two), Oakley, St. Peter's (two), Throckmorton (up to three), Timberdine Allotments, Upton Warren (two) and Wyre Piddle. Staffs Two pairs bred in the Sherbrook Valley (Cannock Chase) and one pair on the Roaches. About 13 individuals were seen in January and February, with one 134

or two at Abbots Bromley, Barton, Belvide, Blithfield, Cannock Hp, Chase- water, Doxey, Royal Cottage and Warwickshire Moor. Almost half occurred on multiple date3, 3uggcoting wintoring or at loaet temporary resirlnnrp Spring migrants were seen on single dates between March 7 and 17 at Bemmersley Tip, Lower Penn, Mow Cop and Warwickshire Moor. In autumn, there were early birds at Doxey on September 2 and Belvide on 23, with two there from 30 to October 7. From mid-October to December birds were present at: Alrewas, Back Forest, Barton (up to three), Belvide, Blithfield, Doxey (up to three), Handsacre Flashes, Roach End and Tlttesworth, with long-stayers at five sites. W Mid In Sandwell Valley, a pair were present from January 4 to February 16, followed by a female on February 24 to 28. In the Sheepwash UP area, the pair from 1992 were present up to March 20, with up to five birds noted on the adjacent tip on February 24. A bird in Woodgate Valley on March 12 may have been on passage. More numerous in the second winter period, with records from: Bartley Res. on November 6, 20 (two) and 27; Fens Pools on October 11; Sandwell Valley on October 10,11 and 14; Sheepwash UP, a pair had returned by October 11, with three noted on 17 and two pairs present throughout November and December; Stubber's Green, a male on September 6; Sutton Park, one on September 22, a pair on 30, rising to six on October 2 and an incredible 12 on 9, reducing to just a single male next day, but increasing to five on 23; Valley Park, on October 10; and Wyken Slough, females recorded on October 3, 11 (two), November 1,15 and 28. In December here, there was a female on 14 and 21, with a pair from 29 to 31.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Average: March 20 (56) to October 15 (57) First seen at Draycote on March 13, with many over the next few days. Last birds were recorded in the period October 5 to 10, but a very late straggler was at Draycote on November 13. Warks Reported on spring passage from 14 sites, with maxima of six at Kingsbury on March 27 and six at Draycote on April 10. Scarcer on autumn passage, with records from only six localities. These mainly involved singletons; the largest count being only three, at Dosthill on August 22 and Draycote on 31. Worcs No breeding birds reported this season. Widespread spring passage was noted from 12 localities. Strong passage was recorded at Bishampton Vale GC, with birds seen on 16 dates and a maximum of seven on March 25. Other counts included three at Holt on March 20, three at Bittell on 29 and four on Bredon Hill between May 1 and 19. It was a poor autumn, with one or two reported from only five localities. Staffs Probable breeding birds were reported from Gun Hill, Goldsitch Moss, Ipstones Edge, Knotbury and the Roaches. Recorded at 17 sites on passage. In spring, the largest counts were six at Doxey on March 22, 20 at Cross- plains on April 10, four at Berryhill on 15, six at Kingswood on 25, with up to four at Blithfield also in April. Autumn passage included six at both Cross- plains and Doxey on August 23, three at Belvide on 25, four at Blithfield on 26 and two at Chasewater on 31. 135

WMid A good spring passage between March 14 and May 15, produced records from 14 sites. The best series of records came from Dunstall Park (max. eight on April 20), Fens pools (max. six from March 28 to 31), Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits (max. three on April 2), Sandwell Valley (max. 11 on March 21) and Sheepwash UP (max. four on March 23). Most records involved only one or two birds. There was a sparser return passage reported from seven sites, the highest count being six in Sandwell Valley on August 22.

Greenland Wheatear O. o. leucorrhoa 1991 Addendum Warks A female at Hawkesbury on May 8 JJB.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Average: March 30 (37) to October 23 (31) First seen in Happy Valley on the early date of March 14, with the latest at Crossplains on October 30. Warks A pair reported from Coombe on April 21. Worcs In spring, one at Happy Valley on March 14 was followed by single males at North Hill on March 28 and 29 and Trimpley on April 12. A further male was on North Hill on April 20, with a pair in Happy Valley the following day. A Female also flew through Upton Warren on April 21. Autumn passage included two on Bredon Hill on September 23, a male in Happy Valley on October 9, with four there the next day and two or three still present on 11. Staffs On the North Staffs Moors, there were spring records from Knotbury (two males and a female), Orchard Common (up to five), the Roaches and Three Shires Head; but the only sign of breeding came from Drystone Edge, where a female and juvenile were seen on July 28. Passage birds noted at Doxey on September 24, Belvide on October 3 and Crossplains on October 30. W Mid Early birds were at Rough Hill/Dudley GC on March 27 (male) and Sandwell Valley on March 29 (female). A male at Fens Pools on April 5, followed by a female at Valley Park on 6 and a male here on 21. A male was found at Hillfield Park on April 24. In autumn, a male was on Netherton Hill on September 17, an immature male at Wyken Slough on October 5 and one in Valley Park on 16. 1989 Addendum W Mid A male at Wyken Slough on April 30.

Blackbird Turdus merula Numbers seem to be fairly stable. Warks 110 at BAD Kineton on May 23 was the second highest count there since 1987, the average being 83. Few other records received, with the largest flock being only 40; at Brandon on February 1 and roosting at Ladywalk on July 28. Worcs Ten nests were found at Timberhonger but several were later predated. Counts of singing males included five at Shortwood Roughs and 14 at Happy Valley. No change in breeding status was noted at Old Hills. The only flocks reported were 25 at Castlemorton Common on October 11 and 20 at Happy 136

Valley on November 11. Staffs The breeding census at Coombes Valley produced 32 pairs (cf. 28 in 1992, 35 in 1991, 31 in 1990). Regular counts at Ashwood suggested an autumn influx, with peaks of 13 on October 19 and 16 on November 16. An influx of 18 occurred at Warwickshire Moor on October 17, while 20 were at Doxey on November 21. W Mid Little breeding data received. Census counts in Valley Park produced 98 on March 21, 81 on April 18 and 78 on September 26. At Wyken Slough, several influxes were identified between September 20 and December 1, with peaks of 90 on October 24 and November 15. Migrants were attracted to this site by a large haw crop.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Average: September 30 (58) to May 2 (57) Birds left fairly early in the spring, the last being recorded between April 5 and 14, apart from a late flock at Ladywalk on May 8. The first autumn migrant was at Draycote on September 19, followed by eight at Hanbury on 25 and a general arrival from 30. Warks Largest flocks in the first winter period comprised 515 at Church Lawford on February 7, 450 at Stretton-on-Dunsmore on 22, 320 at Coombe on 25 and 400 near Henley-in-Arden on 27. 150 were still at Ladywalk on the relatively late date of May 8. Second winter maxima included 2000 on Cloudesley Farm on October 30, more than 1000 (with 500 to the end of the year) at Draycote in early November, 500 at Kingsbury on November 14,750 at Alvecote in late November/early December and 600 at Church Lawford on December 18. Flocks of less than 250 were widespread in both winter periods. Worcs The largest winter flocks were of 300 at Tibberton, 250 at Trench Wood and 100 at Cowsden all on January 31, 250 at Trench Wood on February 4 and 200 at Bredon's Hardwick on 20. 120 were counted at Westwood on March 12 with a similar number still present at Nafford on April 14. Autumn flocks of 250 were noted at Strensham on October 24 and Ockeridge the following day, with 300 at Bredon's Hardwick on 31. November counts included 500 at Tibberton on 7, 600 at Little Comberton on 11 and 1000 on Bredon Hill on 21, while 1000 were seen near Oddingley on December 5. Staffs Significant counts early in the year included 300 at Rolleston-on-Dove on January 28, 400 at Crossplains on February 2, 200 at Astonfields on 20, 800 at Tittesworth on March 5 and 200 at Colton Marsh on 29. Autumn/winter flocks were generally larger, with 1100 at Coombes Valley during October, 1000 at Barton on October 24, 300 near Newborough on 28, 1175 at Newchurch on 30, 500 at Doxey on December 21, with 250 at Harlaston and 200 at Bishton on 31. W Mid Generally scarce early in the year, with the largest flocks being 20 at Cornets End on January 9, 50 in Sandwell Valley on 27 and 22 over Finchley Park on February 1. More were seen later in the year, with 50 at Fens Pools on November 26, 130 in Sandwell Valley on 30, 200 at Park Lime Pits on December 1 and up to 400 at Wyken Slough from December 1 to 3. Flocks of less than 50 were reported from a further four localities. 137

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos A slight improvement in the breeding figures is evident, presumably due to a couple of mild winters. Warks Several observers reported an increase in numbers this year, although this was tempered by a report of "very low" numbers in the Tamworth area. 10 to 12 pairs at Coombe was an increase in the breeding population at this locality, while 35 singing males were counted at BAD Kineton on May 23. 12 were counted going to roost at Ladywalk on an unspecified date. Still only ten observers submitted records; any comparative data would be useful. Worcs There were 22 singing males at Old Hills (a threefold increase on 1992) and 12 singing males were recorded at Shortwood Roughs. Autumn migrants were recorded in small numbers in Happy Valley; 20 were on Castlemorton Common on October 20 and there was a "fall" of ten on North Hill on November 4. Staffs Very few records. 18 breeding pairs (cf. 21 in 1992, 19 in 1991, 21 in 1990) were reported from Coombes Valley. Reported as becoming more common in Lichfield, though no sign of a recovery in the Anslow area where it is less common than Mistle Thrush. W Mid An increase noted in some areas. There were five territories at the Mons Hill CBC site (down from eight in 1992), five pairs breeding at Wyken Slough, (cf. three in 1992) and around 24 singing males counted in Sandwell Valley (cf. 15 in 1992). Three pairs probably bred at Park Lime Pits.A count of 21 birds was made in Valley Park on March 21, apparently some way below the actual number present. A flock of 18 migrants at Wyken Slough on September 20 were present after heavy overnight rain, leaving to the south-west at noon. Smaller "falls" were noted here on October 1,10, 14, 24 and November 4. A bird was heard singing outside a Walsall home at 0300 hrs on February 14! An albino youngster was noted in Valley Park on April 24. Redwing Turdus iliacus Average: September 26 (59) to April 16 (58) Birds departed early in the spring, the only one after April 8 was in Sandwell Valley on 15. Another early autumn migrant was seen this year, at Draycote on September 12. A general arrival began on 25, with records daily there- after. Warks Numbers were rather low early in the year, with flocks of around 100 at Kingsbury on January 30, Henley-in-Arden on February 27 and roosting at Draycote on March 7, being the largest. Birds were more numerous in the second winter period, with 350 at Chesterton on Cctober 27, 300 at Withy- brook on 29, 500 at Cloudesley Farm on 30, 500 at Draycote on November 3, 550 at Brandon on December 12 and 200 at Alvecote in November and December. Worcs In January, flocks of 150 at Bredon's Hardwick on 2 and Doverdale on 3, followed by 400 at Tibberton and 500 near Trench Wood on 31. On February 28 there were 220 at Martin Hussingtree and 250 at Tlbberton. A partial albino showing a full white collar was seen at Holt on February 14. In autumn there was an influx of 500 over Upton Warren on October 25, before an estimated 2300 passed south over Little Comberton between 0800 and 1300 138

hrs on October 30. A flock of 3000 at Tlbberton on November 7 had fallen to 600 by December 5. Staffs Notable flocks during the first winter period were 150 at Fauld on January 28, 200 at Crossplains on February 20 and 300 at Tittesworth on March 5. In the autumn/winter period flocks were more numerous, with 1500 at Coombes Valley during October, 695 at Newchurch on October 30, 500 at Belvide during November, 200 at Tlttesworth on December 14 and flocks of 100 at Fauld, Little Haywood and Rudyard. Several hundred flew west over Doxey on October 9, 150 were in Oldacre Valley on 10, while on 17 a large move- ment occurred over Warwickshire Moor. W Mid Peak numbers in the first winter period included 80 at Wyken Slough on January 18, 44 at Aldridge GC on January 26 and 300 at Park Lime Pits between February 6 and 8. Largest numbers in the autumn/winter included over 60 in Valley Park in early October, 90 flying over Sutton Park on October 10, 80 at Park Lime Pits on 15, 200 west over Woodshires Green in one hour on November 4, 320 at Wyken Slough on 28, 100 in Sandwell Valley on 30 and 40 at Sheldon Park on December 6. Reported from a further 13 localities in flocks of up to 20.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Warks Six pairs bred at Coombe (an increase on the previous year), while five were counted in song at BAD Kineton on May 23. Post-breeding flocks consisted of 20 at Exhall on September 14 and over 30 at Ladywalk. Records came from only seven observers; surely an overlooked species? Worcs Bred at Lynalls Coppice, with further breeding season records from Chateau Impney, Happy Valley, Holt, Kemerton, Larford, Old Hills, Shortwood Roughs and Upton Warren. Flocks of 26 at Stanford on Teme on August 22 and 15 at Abberton on September 23, were the only double-figure counts. Staffs Six pairs bred at Coombes Valley. There was no successful breeding at Belvide this year. The highest counts were 33 at Bradwell Wood on September 3, 32 at Tlttesworth on 26 and 24 at Fauld on 20, with 16 here on October 6. No other double-figure flocks were reported. W Mid Breeding reported from Bartley, Dunstall Park/Valley Park (numbers appear stable), Handsworth Wood, Knowle, Sandwell Valley (at least ten pairs), Woodshires Green and Wyken Slough. Two territories were on the CBC plot at Mons Hill, with probable breeding at Park Lime Pits. 20 were counted in Valley Park on May 9. Post-breeding flocks of note included 30 on Netherton Hill on August 14, 30 in early September at Park Lime Pits and 17 at Wyken Slough on September 26.

Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti The Brandon birds probably come from Oxfordshire, where breeding birds have also recently become established. Warks One pair bred at Brandon, with two adults feeding three young in June and July.This constitutes the first county and regional breeding record DJa et al. Birds were present here all year, with two singing males reported on May 1 SDN, KW and three birds resident during autumn and winter. 139

Worcs The male at Lower Moor from 1992 was last seen on February 7 MJI, GHP. A male arrived at Upton Warren on August 8 and remained until at least the end of the year JTB, AW.

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Average: April 18 (57) to August 26 (47) First heard in Sandwell Valley on April 12, with others arriving between 14 and 17. Last seen at Wyken Slough on the relatively late date of September 21. Warks Reeling birds in possible breeding habitat were reported from: Bascote, Bulk- ington, Brandon (two), Coton, Dosthill, Draycote Meadows NR, Kingsbury (four), Ladywalk and Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth. Single migrants were at Draycote on April 15 and August 21. Worcs Reeling males heard at Abberton (three), Castlemorton Common, Church Lench, Crowle, Ipsley Alders (two), Old Hills (two), Peopleton, Rous Lench (two), Throckmorton, Upton Warren, Wilden (three) and Wood Norton. A migrant was at Blackpole on April 27. Staffs Reeling birds heard at: Abbots Bromley, Belvide, Betley Mere, Branston GP, Brocton Coppice, Chasewater, Crossplains, Doxey (three pairs bred), Dray- ton Bassett, Fisherwick (two), Sherbrook Valley, Tittesworth, Whittington Hurst and Warwickshire Moor (two). W Mid Probably bred in Sandwell Valley, with four reeling birds noted during the breeding season and an additional three noted on passage. Spring migrants were at Valley Park on April 15 and Pelsall North Common on April 23 and 24. At Clayhanger, one was heard on August 1 and two on 4, while a very late bird was seen at Wyken Slough on September 21.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Average: April 16 (57) to September 28 (51) A multiple arrival on April 10, with birds at Brandon, Draycote and Sandwell Valley. More arrived over the next few days. The last in autumn was at Betley Mere on September 25. Warks Breeding/singing birds reported from Alvecote (five or six), BAD Kineton (three), Brandon (13), Chesterton (five), Coombe (two), Dosthill (four), Dray- cote (two), Kingsbury (13), Ladywalk, Marlcliff (ten, along the banks of the R. Avon), Napton Res. and Packington (two, which were the first singing birds here in nine years). A "fall" of more than 30 were counted at Kingsbury at dawn on April 25. Worcs Singing males at Church Lench (four), Eckington (four), Lower Moor (three), Oakley (six), Ripple (seven), Rous Lench, Strensham (six), Throckmorton, Tibberton, Upton Warren (six) and Westwood. Staffs Singing males recorded at 13 localities, with successful breeding at Eland Brook and Tittesworth. There were 38 pairs (cf. 20 in 1992) on the Doxey CBC plot and ten singing males at Belvide. At Betley Mere (a constant effort site), 14 adults ringed was a reduction on 1992. However, 28 juveniles ringed was an increase on the previous year, indicating a better breeding season. 140

W Mid Successful breeding noted at Sandwell Valley (up to six singing males in spring) and Wyken Slough. Probable or possible breeding reported from Knowle and Sutton Park (up to three in song along Longmoor Valley), with a bird in song at Bradnock's Marsh on July 23. Spring migrants noted at Bartley, Comets End, Fens Pools, Netherton Hill and Valley Park. Autumn migrants reported from Fens Pools (two records) and Valley Park (three records).

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris Average: May 31 (43) to July 7 (2) Arrived back in the Avon Valley on May 15, the earliest date ever. A slight improvement in breeding numbers was very welcome. Worcs In the Avon Valley, seven singing males were recorded, attracting three females. Two pairs were eventually successful, raising six young. Two first broods were lost to predation JRH, SMW.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Average: April 25 (53) to September 25 (47) An early bird at Brandon on April 11, with others recorded daily from 15. The last were seen at Betley Mere, Brandon and Ladywalk on October 3. Warks At Brandon, 29 pairs hatched 81 young in the East Marsh ditch study area (the highest total since the study began, cf. 35 young in 1992). Elsewhere, breeding pairs were reported from Alvecote (six to eight), Coombe (19), Kingsbury (three), Ladywalk, Marlcliff (four along the R. Avon), Napton Res. (five), Nelsons Quarry and Packington (three or four). Singing males were also reported at Bidford-on-Avon, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Stockton Res. and Wormleighton Res. Passage birds were noted at Chesterton and Draycote. Worcs Singing males at: Bishampton (two), Church Lench (three), Eckington (five), Grimley (three), Hewell Grange (six), Lower Moor (three), Oakley (nine), Ripple, Spetchley Park (four), Strensham (two), Thorngrove (six), Tibberton- Oddingley canal (eight), Upton Warren (12) and Westwood (two). A migrant was at Bittell on May 23 and nine were seen along the canal between Dun- hamsted and Oddingley also on 23. Staffs Singing males recorded from: Aqualate (ten), Belvide (11), Copmere, Doxey (12), Elford, Tixall Wide (ten) and Westport, where a male sang but two close- hatched broods indicated that he had paired with two females. None were recorded at Pendeford Mill NR for the first time. At Betley Mere (a constant effort site), 32 adults were caught against 42 the previous year, while 58 juveniles ringed was an increase over 44 in 1992 (see Sedge Warbler). W Mid Bred at Sheepwash UP (three singing birds), with probable breeding at Lady Pool in Rushall and Sandwell Valley (two or three in song). Three singing at Cornets End on May 18 may have been migrants, while one was singing on the edge of Fowlers Park from June 29 to July 2. Spring migrants were at Valley Park on April 30 and Fens Pools on May 11. Autumn migrants at Valley Park on August 31 and Wyken Slough on September 7, were more unusual as they are seldom recorded in the county at this season. 141

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina Staffs A singing male found at Belvide on July 10 IM, SN, was the first for the county and only the second in the Region. The first was also a mid-summer record, at Sheriff's Lench, Worcs on June 29, 1942. A description appears in Short Notes.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Average: April 21 (57) to September 20 (57) One at Larford on April 11 was very early. A general arrival occurred from April 22 to 25. The last in autumn were seen at Belvide and Brandon on September 25. Warks Breeding pairs located at: Bascote, Bedworth Hill, Brandon (two), Draycote (two), Jubilee Pools, Walsgrave Hill and Water Orton GP. Probably also bred at Alvecote and Ladywalk. Ten singing males were counted at BAD Kineton. Further singing males were reported from 13 additional sites. Two were noted on feeders at Ladywalk on August 8. Worcs Bred at Kemerton. Singing males were noted at 20 sites, including two at Castlemorton Common, two at Old Hills, five at Tlbberton and two at Upton Warren. Post-breeding maxima included six at Tlbberton, five at Upton Warren and four in one bush at Eckington on August 20. Staffs Successful breeding at Belvide, Coombes Valley (four pairs) and Weeford. Recorded at 18 localities in the county, with up to eight at Belvide and Blithfield during August. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from Cornets End, Fens Pools (two or three), Nether- ton Hill, Netherton Res., Valley Park and Wyken Slough (two). Probable breeding noted at Mushroom Green Marsh, Park Lime Pits (two) and Sand- well Valley. Singing males also reported from Aldridge, Bartley, Brownhills Nature Trail, Cotwall End, Fowlers Park, Longford NP, Marston Green, Ped- more, Sheepwash UP, Walsgrave, Warrens Hall, Woodshires Green and Wrens Nest. One was in a Four Oaks garden on May 7, with one noted feeding on Berberis berries in a Wall Heath garden on June 20. Autumn migrants were widely reported, with "good numbers" reported from Sheepwash UP and Wyken Slough. At the latter site there were peaks of 12 on August 6 and 13 on 12.

Whitethroat Sylvia communis Average: April 14 (59) to September 26 (59) The first in spring was a very early one at Wheaton Aston on March 30. The next was at Draycote on April 10, with several more over the next couple of days. The latest autumn birds were at Belvide on September 27 and Fens Pools on 28. Warks Breeding season counts of singing males received from: Alcester Heath (five), Alvecote (two or three), BAD Kineton (43), Bidford-on-Avon (eight), Brandon (12, with a record 99 ringed this year), Bulkington (four), Coombe (three), Draycote (seven), Ladywalk (over ten), Walsgrave Hill (two), Water Orton (four) and Yarningale Common (two). Records received from a further 11 localities. Several observers reported an increase in numbers this year. 142

Worcs Three pairs bred at Tibberton. Singing males recorded from a further 28 localities including Castlemorton — Hollybed Common (24), Grimley (three), Longdon Marsh (six), Old Hills (nine), Heopleton (three) and Wllden (fuui). Seven birds noted in one Elder bush at Eckington on August 20. Staffs Singing males or breeding pairs reported from 23 sites including: Belvide (11), Coombes Valley (three), Doxey CBC plot (ten), Elford (20), Little Aston (four), Pendeford Mill NR (five) and Wheaton Aston (six). A bird at Belvide on April 12 was the earliest ever recorded there. W Mid Breeding pairs/singing males were reported from: Aldridge GC, Bartley, Bradnock's Marsh (two), Cornets End, Fens Pools (four), Fowlers Park (one, with three more nearby), Hillfield Park (three), HillwOOd Common Road (Sutton Coldfield), Knowle (several localities), Longford NP (four), Netherton Hill (at least four), Park Lime Pits (four), Pelsall Nortb Common (up to six), Sandwell Valley (minimum of 14), Sheepwash UP (four), Sutton Park, Valley Park (at least ten), Wrens Nest (two) and Wyken Slough (12). Spring migrants were reported from Five Ways island, central Birmingham on May 6 and 28.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Average: April 21 (56) to September 10 (55) One at Brandon on April 12 was the first back in spring. Only two or three more were seen before April 24 and 25, when birds arrived in force. Birds were seen daily in the autumn until at least September 21, with the last at Belvide on October 5. Warks Counts of singing males during the breeding season included: Alcester Park Woods (three), Alvecote (two), BAD Kineton (13), Bentley Woods (five), Brandon (14, with six broods produced), Coombe (six), Coughton Park (six), Draycote (four), Kingsbury WP (eight), Ladywalk (four), Marlcliff (two), Oakley Wood (four), Old Nun Wood (three), Rough Hill Wood (two), Water Orton (four), Wellesbourne Wood (three), Withycombe Wood (three) and Yarningale Common (four). Worcs Still on the increase in the Malvern area. Noted at 23 other sites. Counts of singing males included four at Dowles Brook, Mamble and Trench Wood, with five at Shrawley Woods. Staffs 16 pairs bred at Coombes Valley (cf. 19 in 1992, 17 in 1991, 23 in 1990). There were 11 pairs at Tittesworth and ten territories along the R. Churnet/ Cauldon Canal between Froghall and Consall. It was said to be the com- monest warbler in the latter area. Elsewhere, reported from 15 further sites, with four singing males at Highgate Common the best count. W Mid Confirmed breeding reported from Bartley and Sandwell Valley. Singing males were noted in the breeding season at Brownhills Common/Nature Trail, Comets End, Fens Pools, Foleshill Gasworks, Fowlers Park, Harborne NR, Hillfield Park, Netherton Hill/Res., Sutton Park, Valley Park (three) and Wyken Slough (two). One at Pedmore on May 28 was noted giving a Lesser Whitethroat "rattle" as part of its song. Autumn migrants included up to five at Wyken Slough and up to four at Fens Pools. 143

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Many more wintering birds in the Region this year, while the summer popu- lation seemed to show another increase. Warks Breeding season records came from 22 locations, the larger counts of singing males included: BAD Kineton (3b), Bentley Woods (four), Brandon (four), Chesterton Pools (five), Close Wood (six), Coombe (26, cf. 18 in 1992), Coughton Park (eight), Earlswood (five), Kingsbury WP (seven), Kingsbury Wood (seven), Long Itchington (four), Marlcliff (four), Oakley Wood (five), Snitterfield Bushes (five), Ufton Fields (six) and Water Orton (five). Records in the first winter period came from Arley, Brandon, Coombe (pair), Leam- ington (max. three) and Water Orton. Noted in the second winter period at Draycote (pair), Kenilworth, Leamington (pair), Nuneaton, Rugby (pair) and Southam. Winter records were primarily from gardens. Worcs Reported in January from: BewdTey, Claines, Droitwich, Little Comberton, Malvern Link, Redditch, South Littleton and West Hagley; and in February from Bredon's Hardwick and Tibberton. A male was at Westwood from March 20. Singing males recorded from at least 24 sites including: Dowles Brook (five), Grimley (four), Old Hills (25), Shortwood Roughs (six), Tibberton (five), Uffmore Wood (four) and Westwood (four). October migrants at Happy Valley, Oakley (three), Upton Warren and Worcester. Seen in November at Abber- ton, Malvern Link, Ribbesford, Tibberton and Upton Warren; and in Decem- ber at Claines, Castlemorton Common, Hallow (four), Little Comberton, Redditch, Stourport, West Hagley, Westwood and Worcester (two). Staffs Counts of singing males came from: Coombes Valley (15), Pendeford Mill NR (six), Tittesworth (eight) and Westport (four), while birds were reported from 16 further localities during the breeding season. Record numbers of winter- ing birds were reported, with 19 localities featuring, most of them in suburban gardens. W Mid Breeding season records received from 19 localities, mainly concerning one- three pairs. Larger concentrations were recorded at: Mons Hill (12, on the CBC plot), Park Lime Pits (probably four), Sandwell Valley (over 20, cf. 15 in 1992), Valley Park (over ten) and Wyken Slough (six, cf. three in 1992). At Wyken Slough, autumn migrants peaked at 17 on August 12 and 14 on September 22. In the first winter period, reported from 12 locations, with late autumn/second winter period records from a minimum of 20. Almost all of these were noted in gardens, often feeding on bird tables, with a peak count of three in a Four Oaks garden in both winter periods.

Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis Undoubtably the most unexpected bird of 1993, it was enjoyed by many people over its four day stay. Not only was this the first Regional record, it was also the first one recorded in Britain away from coastal or island locali- ties. It was a good year in Britain as a whole with 12 others recorded between August 26 and October 23, ten of these being in the Northern Isles or on the east coast. Staffs One at Blithfield from September 8 to 11 ESC, BDC, AL, WJL et at. For a description of this bird see Short Notes. 144

Pallas's Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus Previous records came from Staffs in 1970 and Worcs in 1987. Warks One was present in the garden of a house in Hermitage Way, Keniiworth for a few minutes on October 4 IPS. This is the first county and third Regional record. Seen without binoculars at a range of five feet. Constant hovering while feeding reminded observer of a hummingbird. The overall impression was likened to Goldcrest, the observer a non-birdwatcher, being familiar with this species. A brilliant yellow rump patch was noted specifically, together with "yellow in the wings" and three yellow stripes on the head. A black stripe ran through the eye.

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Yet another exciting find of a Siberian warbler; the first record came from Upton Warren on October 8 1986. Worcs One was in Happy Valley, Malvern Hills on October 10 SMW,GHP et at. Only the second county and Regional record.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrlx

Wood Warbler (John Teasdale)

Average: April 21 (57) to August 24 (44) Extreme dates were April 15 at Brocton Coppice and August 11 in Valley Park. Generally a poor to average year. Warks One singing at Coombe on May 18 was the only record received, the worst year for this species since 1981. Worcs Singing males recorded at Abberley, Bayton, Callow Hill (four), Dowles Brook (nine), Lickey Hills (four), Lynall's Coppice, Ribbesford (two) and Wissett's Wood. One sang for a day at Westwood on April 26. Staffs Males, in song reported from; Back Forest, Bearda Hill (three), Brocton 145

Coppice, Lower Avenue at Chillington, Chumet Valley near Alton, Coombes Valley (ten pairs bred, as in 1992), Highgate Common (three), Punchbowl, Roach End, Seven Springs (three) and Weston Coyney. Some of these may have been on passage, as was the bird at Westport on August 7. W Mid The only records were of single autumn migrants at Valley Park on July 24 and August 11.

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita collybita Many first records for spring migrants came in the period from March 10 to 15. Warks Singing males in the breeding season reported from 21 sites, the larger counts coming from: Alvecote (three or four), BAD Kineton (17), Brandon (six), Chesterton Pools (three), Close Wood (four), Coombe (30, cf. 25 in 1992), Coughton Park (six), Marlcliff (three), Oakley Wood (six), Old Nun Wood (three), Oversley Wood (ten), Snitterfield Bushes (five), Ufton Fields (four) and Yarningale Common (five). Noted in the first winter period at Dost- hill (two) and Draycote. Second winter period records came from Brandon (two), Coombe, Ladywalk and Lea Marston. Worcs The largest counts of singing males were: seven at Callow Hill, 11 in the Eckington area, seven at Tibberton, six at Trench Wood (cf. 13 in 1992,19 in 1991) and seven at Westwood. Wintering birds were seen at Kempsey (two) and Upton Warren in January; Holt and Kempsey again in February and Westwood in November and December. Staffs Five pairs bred at Coombes Valley. Singing males reported from 20 further sites, with three at Belvide, four at Blithfield and four at Pendeford Mill NR. Wintering birds were seen at: Coven, Kettlebrook, Porthill, Rolleston-on-Dove and Westport. W Mid Breeding pairs/singing males reported from 16 locations in the breeding season, including Mons Hill (five territories on the CBC plot), Park Lime Pits (three), Sandwell Valley (seven or eight) and Valley Park (ten, with at least three pairs successful). Winter records came from: Wiggins Hill on January 1; Sandwell Valley, on January 5 (two), 6,15 and February 1 and 4; Fens Pools, on January 8 and 11, with one during December; Lower Gomal STW on January 16 (two); Oak Farm on November 8, and the Netherton/Saltwells area from November 22 to December 6 (two on the latter date). 1986 Addendum W Mid Wintering birds at Plants Brook Res. during the winter of 1986/1987 reached a peak of five on December 12 (seen in the company of three Blackcaps!).

"Scandinavian"/"Siberian" Chiffchaff P. c. abietinus/tristis Warks One at Draycote from December 4 to the end of the year was thought to be of the Scandinavian race several observers. 1992 Addendum Warks One at Brandon on December 14 was thought, judging from its distinctive call, to be either tristis or an eastern abietinus but was not seen well enough for subspecific determination JJB. 146

"Iberian" Chiffchaff P. c. brehmii W Mid A bird singing on territory at Fens Pools from March 25 to July 1 was identi- fied as brehmii from direct comparison of its song with a pre-recorded tape BMM, SE, EGP. Birds of this race breed in the Iberian Peninsular, south-west France and north-west Africa and have a distinctive song, rendered (in BWP, vol.6) as "tit-tit-tit-tit-tit-tswee-tswee-chit-it-it-it-it", the last phrase accelerating. This bird, which was also apparently present during 1992, seems to be the first record of this race in the region.

(Willow Warbler x Chiffchaff) W Mid One at Wyken Slough on September 16 which showed physical charac- teristics of Willow Warbler, sang a song close to that species but interspersed with typical Chiffchaff song. A possible hybrid?

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Average: March 27 (59) to October 5 (59) The first in spring was at Brandon on March 17, as with other migrants con- siderably earlier than usual. Others started to arrive mainly from March 27, with the main influx from April 10. Few were seen in autumn beyond the third week in September, the latest being at Larford and Sandwell Valley on October 10. The breeding population seems to be on the decline in many areas. Warks Significant counts of singing males came from: BAD Kineton (82), Bentley Woods (15), Brandon (max. of 35 on April 24, presumably included passage migrants), Coombe (25, cf. 20 in 1992) and Draycote (17). A big arrival took place on April 10 in central/southern areas of the county, with 30 counted at Draycote. Worcs Singing males were reported from 17 locations. The highest numbers were: 28 at Castlemorton Common, 12 at Happy Valley (cf. 12 in 1992, 25 in 1991), 17 at Old Hills (cf. 42 in 1991), eight at Shortwood Roughs, eight at Trench Wood (cf. five in 1992, 16 in 1991) and ten at Uffmore Wood. Staffs 12 singing males were at Westport and at least ten pairs bred there (cf. 15 in 1991). Five singing at Pendeford Mill NR was a 50% reduction on the pre- vious year, though a pair on the Doxey CBC was a first for that site. "Several" pairs bred at Warwickshire Moor (cf. ten in 1992). W Mid Breeding or singing birds noted at 16 sites including: Fens Pools (18 singing on April 18, probably included migrants), Foleshill Gasworks (18), Fowlers Park (at least two), Longford NP (six), Mons Hill (three), Park Lime Pits (around six), Sandwell Valley (30 to 35), Valley Park (22, cf. 15 in 1992) and Wyken Slough (20). At Knowle, the observer reports a decline in singing birds present this year.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus The population seems to have recovered well in many districts from the frosts of 1990/91. Warks Another good breeding season, with counts of singing males coming from 147

BAD Kineton (19), Bentley Woods (ten) and Coombe (ten, cf. four in 1992). Large populations were also reported from conifer plantations at Close Wood, Coughton Park and Oakley Wood. Autumn/winter maxima included 30 at Oakley wood on October 27, 50 at Coombe on November 10 and 50 at Close Wood on December 23. Worcs Bred at Abberley Hill and noted at 20 other localities. The maximum number observed were 20 at Callow Hill on November 8. Staffs Few records with most in late autumn, including an influx of 30 at Belvide on October 22 and 20 at Beaudesert on 17. W Mid Breeding reported from Berkswell Hall and Boultbee's/Meigh's Woods area, where many family parties were located in late summer. Single pairs bred |n Sandwell Valley and in a Wollaston garden. One territory was located on the Mons Hill CBC plot, while birds were resident and probably breeding in Knowle. Outside the breeding season, noted at 18 localities with peak numbers comprising 15 at Boultbee's Wood in January, ten at Wyken Slough in October and ten at Fens Pools in the latter part of the year. Reported as being very common in Sutton Park in October.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus A marked recovery is evident in the five-year totals, with the increase starting in 1988 but unfortunately, no evidence of breeding in the Region has been forthcoming since iy«y. I he mid-September records are interesting as they coincide with the arrival of several eastern migrants.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 8 17 34 24 37 Worcs The female first seen at Upton Warren in December 1992, remained until March 13 DJSetal. Staffs Singles at Belvide from April 3 to 4 SAR et al, and at Barlaston Downs from September 12 to 13 JPM, MDS et al. W Mid The bird at Boultbee's Wood from 1992 was present up to at least January 12 SMH. One at Wyken Slough on March 2 JJB, followed by one on Brown- hills Nature Trail on March 22 PAJN. An early autumn bird was at Fens Pools on September 14 SE, with possibly the same bird at Penn on the same date SB. An exceptional year, but how many go unrecorded?

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Average: May 2 (57) to September 26 (57) Unlike most other summer migrants birds were later in arriving this year, with the first noted at Abberton and Draycote on May 9. The main arrival was during May 12 to 15. In autumn birds were recorded up to the end of Sep- tember, the latest coming from Middleton on October 2. Unfortunately this unobtrusive bird seems to be in sharp decline in many areas. More breeding season counts would be very welcome, particularly if they could be con- ducted annually. Warks A disastrous breeding season at Coombe, where four singing males were noted (cf. five pairs in 1992), but only two pairs nested, one deserting due to 148

building work and the other unsuccessful. Successfully bred at Packington (no data on numbers this year) and Coleshill. Single pairs possibly bred at: Attleborough, Bascote, Bidford-on-Avon, Chesterton, Dunchurch, Long Itch- ington, Lye Green, Middleton Hall, Old Nun Wood, Ryton Wood, Tanworth-in- Arden, Whitacre and Yarningale Common. Passage birds reported from a further seven localities, including Draycote where there was a party of ten on August 9 and 10. Worcs Bred at Abberton, Bewdley, Hawford Wood, Lynalls Coppice and Tibberton, while seven territories were recorded along a four km stretch of Dowles Brook. Spring and summer records came from an additional 12 localities, with seven passage birds at Upton Warren on September 8. Staffs Breeding pairs noted at: Belvide (two, in one nest the young all died), Coombes Valley (five, the best total since 1989), Doxey (three on the CBC plot), Lichfield College, Pendeford Mill NR, Stafford and Tlttesworth (eight). Autumn passage birds noted at 14 sites, with the best count being four: at Hollybush on July 17, Ashwood on August 6 and Tillington Cemetery on September 10. W Mid Breeding noted at Bluebell Park in Dudley and at Marston Green. Noted early in the breeding season in the Balsall Common area and Tidbury Green, while an unmated male sang daily at Woodshires Green from early June until mid- July. Passage birds were reported from 18 sites, being more numerous on autumn passage. Several observers report this to be a declining species.

Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva 1992 Addendum Warks An adult male, the first for the Region, was present at Kingsbury on May 28 and 29 MH. This was a remarkable occurrence, being part of an exceptional . spring passage which involved 19 birds between May 25 and June 15. There were two others found (at Flamborough Head, N. Humberside) on May 28, with two more on 29. There was also another inland record; at Ripon (N.Yorks) on May 31. The bird was found on the caravan site at Kingsbury WP, adjacent to the field where the Birdwatcher's Spring Fair was being set up! Unfortunately, when alerted to its presence it could not be found by other observers. A small pale brown bird, habitually cocking its tail when perching on gate posts and bushes. The tail was black-tipped with white side patches. A reddish-brown chin and chest and pale underparts. Flycatcher-type feeding sallies, to and from the same perch were noted. Call described as a crisp "chic".

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Average: April 20 (47) to September 6 (28) Extreme dates were April 12 at Draycote (with most appearing from 18 to 24) and September 17 at Westport. Warks Single males were at Draycote on April 12 and Coombe on 22. Worcs At Lynall's Coppice, five pairs occupied nestboxes (ten in 1992) and four of these reared 21 young. Three pairs bred on the Lickey Hills. Along the southern Malvern Hills (both sides of the County boundary), 15 pairs occu- pied nestboxes (12 in 1992) and raised 97 young. Four males sang near 149

Bayton, while three sang along Dowles Brook and one observer recorded eight in the Wyre Forest on April 24. One male sang at Hanley William and another at Hewell Grange, where a nestbox was inspected but not used. Males were also noted in Hunthouse Wood and at The Knapp. Two males were in song in Romer's Wood and also at Wissetts Wood. A passage bird was at Stoke Bliss on August 13. Staffs On Cannock Chase, birds were seen at Brocton Coppice (six on May 3, at least two pairs bred successfully), Seven Springs and Stepping Stones. At Bearda Hill, two males were near nestboxes on May 9. At Coombes Valley 34 pairs bred, while other probable breeding birds were reported at Chilling- ton Park (four males in May) and the Manifold Valley between Eaton Bridge and Dale Farm. A juvenile at Highgate Common on July 22 still had down on its head but no adults were seen in the vicinity. Passage migrants were noted at Aqualate, Belvide (two in May), Crossplains, Doxey (three on May 1), Hollybush, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid A male was at Park Lime Pits on April 19, with a pair noted around a nestbox in Sandwell Valley on April 26. One in an Erdington garden on August 18. 1987 Addendum Warks A male was singing strongly in Clowes Wood on May 9 and another was noted at Marston on August 8.

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus A further decline in the five-year totals, with numbers now almost at the same level as 1964-68. However, this year was the best since 1989.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 100 70 54 61 44 Warks A male was seen briefly at Draycote on November 3. Five birds were seen at Brandon on November 23 and three or four stayed to the end of the year, although they were often extremely elusive. Worcs Two females were present at Oakley on January 4, 5 and 9, with possibly the same birds seen again on March 13. Three males and a female at Upton Warren on November 7 and 8, later moved to Oakley where they were pre- sent from November 25 until the end of the year. W Mid A female was present at Sheepwash UP on November 4, the first locality record.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Warks Five pairs bred at Coombe (cf. 1992: three). A fairly common breeding bird at most sites having benefitted from recent mild winters. Maxima of 30 at Alve- cote, 30 at Brandon, 85 at Coombe, 56 at Draycote, 50 at Ladywalk, 36 at Marlcliff and 60 at Yarningale Common. Worcs Breeding pairs at Dowles Brook, Hadley, Purshall, Shortwood Roughs (six), Timberhonger and Upton Warren. Largest flocks included 37 at Castlemorton Common on August 30, 25 at Upton Warren on September 7, 30 at West- wood on .October 23, 25 in Arley Wood on November 11 and 40 at Tibberton on November 14. 150

Staffs 48 at Tittesworth was the largest flock reported, with several records of 20 together. 20 pairs counted in the Belvide area in spring and ten pairs bred at Coombes Valiev. Noted as increasing in the Tame Valley around Elford and described as widespread and common by other observers, with increasing reports from gardens. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from: Aldridge GC, Bradnock's Marsh, Fens Pools, Hawkesbury Locks, Hayhead Wood, Hillfield Park, Knowle, Longford NP, Park Lime Pits (two), Pelsall North Common, Sandwell Valley (four/five), Sutton Park, Valley Park (at least four) and Wyken Slough (three). Largest flocks included up to 50 at Wyken Slough from July to September, over 30 in Sandwell Valley on September 27 and at least 50 in Valley Park on November 7. Reported from a further 16 localities; extremely widespread and appears to be increasing.

Marsh Tit Parus palustris Warks Probable breeding pairs at: Arbury, Colliery Wood, Compton Verney, Coombe (ten), Heach Wood, Oakley Wood, Old Nun Wood, Oversley Wood (four), Snitterfield Bushes, Wappenbury Wood and Yarningale Common (three). Not as common in the north of the county but probably still present at Bentley and Kingsbury Wood. Two at Draycote on June 30 were unusual. Worcs Fairly common in the Wyre Forest, with several breeding territories located along Dowles Brook. Also noted at: Abberley Hills, Bishampton, Bredon Hill, Churchill Wood, Grimley, Hadley, Old Hills Common, Old Storridge Common, Pirton Pool, Ribbesford Wood, Shortwood Roughs, Upton Warren and Westwood. Staffs Reported from Ashwood, Belvide (increasingly noted and regular at the feeder; two juveniles on August 2 and peak of six on 26), Blithfield (pair bred), Chillington, Consall Woods, Coombes Valley (three pairs), Rolleston-on- Dove and Tittesworth. WMid Singles at Valley Park on February 14 and December 18. Two were on Netherton Hill on July 20, with one at Netherton Res. on September 16. One in a mixed flock of tits at Aldridge on November 8. Also reported from Har- bome NR (December) and Rough Wood.

Willow Tit Parus montanus Warks Probable or confirmed breeding records at: Alvecote, Brandon (two), Bascote (two), Coombe (two), Draycote, Hawkesbury, Kingsbury, Ladywalk (two), Lighthorne Rough, Oakley Wood, Ryton Wood, Shawbury Wood, Worm- leighton Res. and Yamingale Common. Worcs Bred on Abberley Hill, Bredon Hill, along Dowles Brook and at Upton Warren. Other breeding season records came from Arley Wood, Woodbury Hill and the Wyre Forest. Seen at six other localites outside the nesting season, with four at Monkwood on March 3 and three at Upton Warren on December 10. Staffs Reported from Ashwood, Belvide (three singing in spring, with evidence of breeding), Consall Woods, Coombes Valley, Croxall, Doxey, Elford, Enville,. 151

Lichfield (at a feeder in December), Little Haywood, Rudyard, Stafford Castle, Tillington Cemetery, Tlttesworth, Warwickshire Moor (pair bred), Weeford and Westport (pair bred). W Mid Breeding confirmed at Fens Pools (two pairs), Hawkesbury Locks, Hayhead Wood and Valley Park (three pairs, with two more probably doing so). Fre- quently encountered on the Brownhills Nature Trail, where up to two pairs probably bred and one territory was located on the Mons Hill CBC plot. Also reported from Aldridge, Balsall Common, Bartley, Dorridge, Harborne NR, Longford, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Woodshires Green and Wyken Slough (max. six).

Coal Tit Parus ater Warks A fairly common breeding bird in most coniferous woodland and also in areas containing scattered conifers. Eight pairs bred at Coombe (cf. 1992: five). At Bentley a pair nested in a crevice in the side of a barn. 25 at Close Wood on December 23 was the best winter flock. Worcs Breeding or summer records from the Abberley Hills, Callow Hill (where 30 present on June 25), Dowles Brook, Hadley and Shortwood Roughs. Obser- ved at 13 other sites, including Coldridge Wood where there were 50 on November 11. Staffs The few reports included 21 pairs located at Coombes Valley, 20 at Beau- desert on October 17 and a peak count of seven at Belvide on August 29. W Mid Breeding reported from Berkswell Hall (five pairs), Boultbee's and Meigh's Woods (noted as being common in this area), Erdington, Mons Hill CBC plot (two territories), Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and the Valley Park area. A very good breeding season in neighbouring parts of Warwickshire led to many birds wandering in the Coventry area during autumn and winter. Ten were counted at Boultbee's Wood on January 12. Records received from a further ten localities, mostly gardens.

Blue Tit Parus caeruleus Warks No specific details received from nestbox schemes. Some large post-breed- ing parties were noted, including up to 100 at Brandon, while at Coombe, 100 were counted on September 24. Worcs Remains common and widespread. Seven nestboxes were occupied at Lynall's Coppice during May and 14 pairs were counted at Shortwood Roughs. 28 chicks were fledged from four nestboxes at Tlmberhonger, but a fifth box containing ten eggs was abandoned when wasps started to build a nest in it! The largest concentrations reported were 37 at Grimley on Septem- ber 5 and 20 at Castlemorton Common on December 26. Staffs 112 pairs bred at Coombes Valley (cf. 1991:128), while 33 at Ridgehill Wood on December 15 was the best flock reported. WMid 14 territories located on the Mons Hill CBC plot (cf. 1992: 19). 77 were counted along Valley Park on April 18, with 40 moving through Monkspath hedgerows on February 14. Up to 50 at Wyken Slough in July and August, reflected a very good breeding season at this locality. 152

Great Tit Parus major Warks Maximum of 53 at Coombe. The most unusual nest-site around belonged to a pair at UAL) Kirietbn that used a spent missile case. Worcs Three nestboxes occupied at Lynall's Coppice. Six pairs were recorded on the CBC at Shortwood Roughs. A pair laid 17 eggs in a nestbox at Timber- honger, six chicks hatched but were severely undernourished and eventually died. A pair at West Hagley bred in a nestbox designed for Swifts. Old Hills held 18 singing males in the breeding season. Staffs 90 at Coombes Valley and 28 at Ridgehill Wood on December 15 was the most reported. W Mid 28 territories counted on the Mons Hill CBC plot (a large increase on the 16 in 1992). "A very good breeding season" reported from the Knowle area, while breeding numbers were reported as being stable in Valley Park. 37 birds were counted along Valley Park on their census days of March 21 and October 26, with up to 20 at Wyken Slough in the autumn.

Nuthatch Sitta europaea Warks Ten pairs bred at Coombe (cf 1992: eight) and three at Snitterfield Bushes. Smaller numbers present at several other sites. Up to ten reported at both Jephson Gardens, Leamington Spa and Ufton Wood and eight at Rough Hill Wood. Unusual records came from Draycote in January and April and Whit- acre Heath NR on August 15. Worcs Bred at Birchley Farm Poplars, Oakenshaw and a pair with four young were seen in Nunnery Wood. Two pairs noted in the breeding season at both Chase End and Raggedstone Hill. Reported from 11 other sites. Staffs An increase was noted at Lichfield this year. Good numbers were reported at Consall Woods, Coombes Valley (six pairs), Longsdon Woods and Rudyard, where a pair were reported feeding young in June.The only other proof of breeding came from a Stafford garden. W Mid Breeding season records received from Berkswell Hall (three pairs), Dorridge Park, Edgbaston Park (two pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Sand- well Valley, Stivichall Common (at least two pairs), Sutton Park (one observer states that they seem less common here than four years ago) and Wrens Nest. A "good stable population" reported from the Knowle area. Records received from a further seven sites, including Park Lime Pits, the first locality record for the observer concerned.

Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Warks Breeding season records from: Alcester, Bascote, Bentley, Brandon, Church Pool Covert, Colliery Wood, Coombe (ten pairs), Snitterfield Bushes, Sych Wood, Wappenbury Wood, Water Orton and Yarningale Common. Worcs In the breeding season, a family party of six were seen on Castlemorton Common on June 10 and at least three pairs were present at Old Hills. Reported from another seven localities. Staffs Widely reported, with breeding records from Brocton Coppice, Consall Woods and Coombes Valley. WMid Breeding season records came from: Berkswell Hall, Boultbee's Wood, 153

Bromwich Wood, Mons Hill CBC plot, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Valley Park (possibly two pairs). Noted at a further eight localities.

Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus There are no signs of any increase in records despite many more observers in the field nowadays. This was the first record in Worcs since 1988 and the first in the Region sinco 1990.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 3 5 5 4 3 Worcs A male sang at Abberton for fifteen minutes early on June 8 GHP, WFP, WRHP.

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Hopefully the sharp decline in numbers has levelled out and we might soon see some recovery.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 76 77 20 11 10 Worcs One visited the feeding station at Upton Warren Flashes on October 24 and was seen again early the following morning JTB, SC, LLJ, SMW.

Jay Garrulus glandarius Warks Breeding season records from: Brandon (three pairs), Church Pool Covert, Coombe (five pairs), Heach Wood and Water Orton. Numbers at Draycote have increased dramatically over the last 12 months, small parties are now regularly seen. Worcs Remains widely distributed. Reported from ten locations, with the largest concentration being 27 at Grimley on August 15. Staffs Most records were from autumn when birds become more conspicuous, but there was some evidence of real migration. Five'appeared at Elford on Sep- tember 19, while a "noticable influx" was reported at Belvide in October, where a peak of ten occurred on 2. W Mid Breeding season records came from Bartley, Berkswell, Erdington, Hands- worth Wood, Harborne NR, Meriden, Mons Hill CBC plot, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Valley Park (first confirmed breeding record here in recent years). Reported from a rurther 14 localities, with several observers noting an increase in this species and a definite move into the suburbs, particularly in the autumn. Largest parties comprised "at least three parties of seven strong" in Sutton Park and eight in Valley Park on September 26. A partial albino was noted in a garden near Earlswood from June to September.

Magpie Pica pica Warks Maxima of 127 roosting at Alvecote, 86 roosting at Draycote and 42 at BAD Kineton. 154

Worcs Remains a widespread breeding species. At Old Hills, 11 pairs nested. Flocks included 17 at Bredon's Hardwick on January 10 and Westwood on 25, and 20 in one tree at Happy Valley on February 18. Staffs No large roosts reported and 22 at Chasewater on February 19 was the largest count submitted. Two pairs bred at both Belvide and Warwickshire Moor. W Mid Six territories located on the Mons Hill CBC plot and seven pairs bred at Wyken Slough. Two birds were noted nest-building in a south Walsall garden on September 19! Some high counts included: 67 at Sheepwash UP on January 10, more than 80 around Powells Pool in Sutton Park on March 3, 64 at Park Lime Pits on 14, 70 at Minworth SF on 17, at least 80 in Valley Park on December 16 and around 90 at Fens Pools on 18.

Jackdaw Corvus monedula Warks Best numbers were 300 at both Chesterton and Coombe, 200 at Packington and 250 at Ragley Park. Worcs A widespread breeding species. The largest concentrations were reported from: Bow Wood, where 1200 roosted in winter; Broughton Hackett, with 400 on May 22; Peopleton, with 600 going to roost on May 28, and Westwood, with 300 on November 6. Staffs Few large flocks reported, with totals of 100 at Belvide on October 28 and Kings Bromley on December 5 being the largest. Some movement seems to have occurred in October, with 36 south at Chasewater in 165 minutes on 10 and 32 at Westport (where scarce) on 16. W Mid Breeding noted in the Wollaston/Norton areas of Stourbridge and at two sites along Valley Park. One territory was located on the Mons Hill CBC plot, while probable breeding took place near Park Lime Pits. Up to 500 birds were noted going to roost at Four Ashes GC, while at least 150 flew over Valley Park on their way to a Wightwick ridge roost on July 9. A flock of 200 flying west high over Wyken Slough on October 10, may have been migrants.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Warks Only two record cards received. 60 nests were built at Sych Wood. Best counts were: 700 at Alcester, 300 at Bramcote, 450 at Chesterton and 350 roosting from October onwards at Coombe. Worcs The number of nests at some of the County's rookeries were: 18 at Ball Mill, 17 at Cooksey, 40 at Little Witley, 45 at Mamble, 45 at Pugh's Rough and 17 at Rea Valley. Nests were generally in either Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) or Oak (Quercus sp.) but nests at Rea Valley in Silver Birch (Betula pendula) were considered very unusual. On January 23, there were 250 at Holt and on May 29, 300 at Oddingley. Staffs Counts of birds flying to roost over Hockley (Tamworth), included 1000 on January 9, 750 on 23 and 800 on November 28. W Mid Only two nests were occupied at Henley Green (Coventry), the rookery appears to be transferring to a new site further out of the city at Potter's Green. Two stable rookeries were reported near Knowle. At least 44 nests were counted in Sandwell Valley, while in Valley Park, three pairs bred south 155

of Compton and as many as ten pairs just south of Smestow school. 70 were counted in the Aldridge area in January, 70 were at Brownshill Green, Coven- try in October and 90 were over Wyken Slough in December. "Hundreds" joined massed corvid roosts along the Wightwick ridge near Valley Park in autumn and winter.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone corone Warks 60 at Draycote was the best count received. Worcs Remains a widespread breeding species. In excess of 500 roosted with other corvids at Cobblers Coppice, Timberhonger during January and February. A leucistic bird was seen in the Wyre Forest on May 9. Staffs 45 on the shoreline at Beivide on August 27 included an hepatic bird. W Mid Breeding pairs reported from Bartley, Fens Pools (two), Handsworth Wood, Monkspath, Mons Hill CBC (two), Park Lime Pits (five), Sandwell Valley (at least seven), Valley Park (where numbers appeared stable) and Wyken Slough (three). The largest gatherings comprised 135 in Sandwell Valley on February 9, 150 at Lower Gomal STW on February 21 and 90 in Perry Hall Park on April 30. Concentrations of up to 50 birds were not uncommon in the county, while several birds exhibiting white wing-patches were reported.

Hooded Crow C. c. cornix This distinctive race is now a rarity in the Midlands and very few still visit the east coast of England in winter, where formerly they were abundant. The reason for this decline is that most birds are now staying the winter on their breeding grounds in Scandinavia.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of records 13 21 4 3 0 No. ol birds 16 24 3 3 0

Raven Corvus corax The increase in records started in 1987 has continued, with regular breeding in Worcs since 1989. So many sightings are now coming from this county, it is now impossible to estimate annual totals. Probably most records refer to a small highly mobile population, rather than fresh arrivals.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 42 29 25 43 149 Worcs A breeding pair was present in the west of the County for the fifth successive year SMW. Another pair raised four young just outside the County boundary along the Malverns. Almost certainly these birds were the same as two seen at various locations along the Malvems between March 27 and April 4. In autumn, up to three birds were seen along the length of the Hills on ten dates between September 18 and November 28, with six over Happy Valley on October 10 several observers. Elsewhere, a pair were seen in the Wyre Forest over Dowles Brook and Callow Hill between January 29 and April 18 156

several observers, with one again over Dowles Brook on May 9 GHP. Probably one of these birds was also seen at Furnace Mill on March 9 EGP. Further records came from: Shrawley on January 16 AFJ-, Great Witley, two on February 25 per SMW\ Conderton, two on April 25 MJI, GJM-, Shelsley Walsh, one on May 8 with two there on September 17 MAS, Abberley Hills, two on June 12,13 and October 17 MJI, GJM, GHP, Mamble, four on July 29 RM-, Westmancote, two on August 20 PFW, Bredon Hill, two on August 28 KHT\ Stoke Bliss, two regularly from August 28 to the end of the year RM\ Temple Dingle, three on August 30 RM and two on December 5 MJI, GJM; Nash Elm Wood, two on September 18 RM-, Weyman's Wood, two on October 17 GHP, and Broadway, one on November 15 CG. Staffs Two were present throughout the year on the Sheepwalks, Enville but with no signs of breeding several observers. One was seen north-west of Swallow Moss on July 4 RH, DL. 1992 Addendum Staffs First seen on the Sheepwalks, Enville on January 4, when one was present MJI, GJM. Up to four were displaying here on February 9 JKH, with two present on several dates up to April, the last being a single on 16 several observers. During the latter part of the year, four were present on October 24 MJI, GJM and two on December 6 ICW. Elsewhere, singles were at Smestow on April 3 CJT, Newborough on April 19 DIMW, two were at Orchard Common on May 10 AL and near Market Drayton on June 26 WJL. Starling Sturnus vulgaris Warks The only roost reported was at Brandon, where a reduction was noted; 3000 was the best number in July. There were good numbers feeding at Coventry Airport (Baginton), with 1000 on January 10 and 1500 on October 10. 350 at Coombe on March 23 was said to be a good local record. Elsewhere, best numbers occurred in autumn: 1000 at Middleton on September 14, 500 at Grandborough on October 22 and 2000 at Draycote on November 1. At BAD Kineton, 121 were noted on the summer count. Peak numbers here during the period 1987-93 occurred during 1987-89, with an average of 185. Worcs At Little Comberton, 140 juveniles on June 6 were evidence of better breed- ing success. Elsewhere, the largest flocks were of 500 at Longdon Marsh on January 23, 1800 at Hindlip on June 3, 1500 at Throckmorton on October 22 and 500 at Bredon's Hardwick on November 13. Staffs A roost of juveniles (with some adults) was present at Betley Mere from mid- June, with 4000 on 27 the maximum. 1500 roosted at Tittesworth on August 24. W Mid In contrast to last year, very few records received. One territory on the CBC plot at Mons Hill. Bred well on the Beechdale estate, Walsall, with.over 600 here during the summer months including a high proportion of juveniles. A large roost was still present in Coventry city centre (unlike Birmingham) throughout the year. Around 2000 roosted in Sandwell Valley during the summer, while 800 were noted flying over Wyken Slough towards Coventry on October 26. An albino was noted on the Beechdale estate from July to October, with a semi-albino frequenting Valley Park on August 20 (apparently resembling a small pied wader!). 157

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Warks No records of any significance received. Worcs No records received but remains a widespread resident of towns and villages. Staffs Status unchanged. W Mid Three territories located on the CBC plot on Mons Hill. Colonies along the periphery of Valley Park were reported as "continuing to thrive", although wintering flocks present here in the late 1960's were absent. Reported as continuing to decline in the Knowle area, with similar sentiments from the Aldridge area. Largest flock comprised 150 in hedgerows at Monkspath.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus The breeding population now seems to be at a very low ebb, all records are required. Warks Pairs were noted in the breeding season at: Bascote (three), Brook End Farm (two), Bulkington, Chesterton (tour), Coombe (several), Coton, Dosthill, Jubilee Pools, Walsgrave Hill (several), Walton (three), Water Orton, and Whatcote. On the summer count at BAD Kineton, seven were noted which equals the lowest figure during 1987-93. Once again there were few good- sized flocks, however there were some exceptions. Notably at Chesterton, where a regular flock peaked at 105 on April 13. All flocks reported in excess of ten are given: 15 at Compton Vemey, 20 at Copston Magna, 70 at Exhall, 60 at Grandborough, 28 at Priors Hardwick, 30 at Walsgrave Hill and 15 at Whitestone (Nuneaton). Worcs Remains very scarce in the west of the County, where it was noted as absent from the majority of its old breeding and wintering sites. Breeding was noted at Besford, Newnham Bridge, Peopleton and Pershore. Also present during the breeding season at: Broome Pool, Church Lench, Delamere, Kings Green, Stoke Bliss and near Tedstone. The largest flocks were 20 at Blake- down on January 21, 30 at Longdon Marsh on 31, 20 at Trench Wood on February 4, 12 at Tibberton on March 13 and 45 north of Peopleton on November 27. Staffs Some encouraging flocks were recorded, with 100 at Trescott on January 3, 30 at Wilnecote on 9, 20 at Warwickshire Moor on March 2,14 at Belvide on August 23, 50 at Blithfield on October 17, 30 at Branston on 22, 100 near Millmeece on November 21,20 at Ashwood during November and December and 40 at Whitemoor Hay on December 31. Single figures at ten other sites included two at Westport on July 27 where it is very scarce. Only two records referred to breeding. W Mid The only breeding records in the county concerned "several" pairs in Sand- well Valley and one pair possibly at Park Lime Pits, a very sorry situation. A flock of 35 were at Pedmore on January 14. Another of 15-20 were in a field off Bosty Lane, Aldridge from January through to March, with 33 near Ald- ridge cricket ground on December 19. Up to ten were reported from the Long- ford/Woodshires Green area of Coventry from January through to March. Only two records from Knowle this year, while the only others reported were singletons at Wyken Slough on two dates in autumn. No records from Hillfield Park or Monkspath this year, an area where five pairs bred in 1992. 158

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Warks All winter flocks reported in excess of 50 are listed: 100 at Chesterton, 200 roosting at Coombe on November 10, 61 at Farnborough, 100 at Fillongley and up to 300 in game covers at Packington. Worcs There were 13 pairs at Shortwood Roughs in the breeding season. The Mal- vems population remained stable but reduced numbers were noted in the regular autumn east-west movement through Happy Valley: i.e. peaks of 120 on October 9, 70 on October 16, 104 on October 17 and 50 on November 4 (in 1992 the peak was 200 on October 29, while in 1991 1000 were recorded on October 19 and 20). The largest flocks reported elsewhere were 300 at Tlmberhonger on January 25, 250 at Grimlev on March 7. 600 at Tibberton on October 30, 250 at Wadborough on December 14, 300 at Oddingley on 19 and 200 at Deerfold Wood on 24. Staffs There were 15 singing males at Belvide and 86 breeding pairs at Coombes Valley. The largest flocks were 200 at Weeford on April 6 and Whittington on November 18, 150 at Gothersley Farm on November 16 and 100 at both Fauld and Overley on February 20. WMid Breeding noted at Bartley, Sandwell Valley (at least 21 singing males, a big increase on previous years), Sutton Park, Valley Park (numbers reported as stable) and Wyken Slough. Pairs probably also bred at Erdington, Mons Hill (five on CBC plot) and Park Lime Pits (three). More than 150 were counted in Sandwell Valley on February 15, with 60 south over Wyken Slough on October 10 and rates of 50 per hour south over both Woodshires Green and Wyken Slough on November 4.

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Average: October 10 (58) to April 17 (57) Extreme dates were April 28 (Chillington) and October 9 (Happy Valley). Some good sized flocks appeared in Autumn. Warks Small numbers were seen in the first winter period; the best flocks were ten at Coombe in early February and six at both Exhall on January 18 and Sper- nall on February 13. Birds often appear in April as a result of spring move- ment and five on April 15 at Kingsbury had increased to nine the next day. There were other singles at Bentley on April 17 and Draycote on 11. In autumn, up to three were seen at ten sites. Up to eight were also present at Butlers End in November and December, five at llmington on October 17 and four at Poolfields on November 28. By far the largest assembly however was at Coombe, where a roost of six with Chaffinches in rhododendrons on October 28 had built up to 60 by November 10, but only a few were still present in December. Worcs Four were seen in a Stoke Bliss garden between January 1 and March 12. Flocks at Retreat Farm, Grimley included 100 on January 14, 50 on February 4, 100 again on March 7, dropping to 40 by March 20. Elsewhere, noted on Bredon Hill, Clifton on Teme and Upton Warren in February and at Bittell, Blakedown and Broome in March, with late birds at Tibberton (three) on April 13, Ockeridge on 16 (four) and Westwood on 17 (ten). In autumn, birds were recorded between October 9 and November 7 moving through the Happy 159

Valley area of the Malverns, with peak counts of 41 on October 16 and 21 on November 4. Smaller numbers (up to ten) were also recorded from: Bredon Hill, Frankley, Oakley, Ockeridge, between Oddingley and Tibberton, Upton Warren, Westwood and Wood Norton during October; and from Abberton, Bredon Hill, Church Lench, Frankley Beeches, Kemerton, Larford, Little Com- berton, Ribbesford and Upton Warren in November. In addition, 300 were at Harvington on November 17, with 250 remaining there the next day. Decem- ber records came from Besford, Pirton and Wadborough, with 15 at this last site on 14 and 20 at nearby Deerfold Wood on 24. Staffs Notable flocks reported early in the year included: 100 at Rushton Spenser on January 3, 50 at Knypersley on 5, 150 at Rudyard on 7, 128 near Norton Bridge on March 14, 50 at Weeford oh April 6 and 100 in Stanley Wood on 18. In the autumn there were 600 at Millmeece and Coles Heath on Novem- ber 21 and 800 at Rudyard. Elsewhere, smaller numbers reported from 27 different localities. W Mid In the first winter period, one to three birds were reported from: Dorridge Park, Fens Pools, Four Oaks, Handsworth Wood, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park (eight) and Valley Park. Later in the year, similar numbers were reported from: Bartley Res., Dorridge Park (ten), Fens pools, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Pelsall North Common, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park, Valley Park (six), south Walsall and Wyken Slough.

Serin Serinus serinus 1992 Addendum Staffs One flying north-west over Elford on July 26 JJB, was identified by its diag- nostic call-note. This is the first record for the county and only the third for the Region, the previous two coming from Worcestershire in 1978 and 1981.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Warks The large flock of 600 seen at Lighthorne in 1992 remained until at least January 3. They were attracted to Linseed stubble, as was 200 at Chase Lane on October 27. Up to 250 were present in game covers at Packington in both winter periods. Nine other flocks averaged 65 birds, including 100 at Draycote and Ryton-on-Dunsmore, 80 at Barford and Chesterton and 40 at Alvecote, Bulkington and Corley. Worcs Song and display noted in nine areas of the Old Hills. Bred successfully at Timberhonger, with two broods raised. At Grimley, flocks of 150 on January 23, 30 on August 1, 45 on August 28, 47 on September 5 and 30 on October 17 were noted. Elsewhere, a flock of 200 fed on rape seed at Hampton (near Evesham) and 50 were at Harvington on November 18. Staffs Frequently reported from gardens. Largest flocks reported were 100 at Other- ton on September 26 and 40 at both Belvide on February 14 and Warwick- shire Moor on October 17. W Mid Breeding recorded at Bartley, Handsworth Wood, Sandwell Valley, Valley Park, Woodshires Green and Wyken Slough. Two territories on the Mons Hill CBC plot, with possible breeding at Park Lime Pits. Highest counts comprised 75 roosting in Sutton Park on February 13, 95 in Valley Park on March 19, 60 160

at Park Lime Pits on August 27, 50 again in Sutton Park on November 19, and around 60 in Valley Park on December 29.

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Warks There were returns from nine observers, possibly underlining an apparent increase in numbers. Breeding information is limited but autumn flocks indi- cated a successful season. Maxima reported: 100 at Brandon on October 2, 30 at Coombe and Dosthill, 50 at Draycote, 30 at Grandborough, 60 at Hawkesbury, 80 at Lea Marston, 60 at Middleton and 39 at Thurlaston. Worcs Bred at Abberton and probably at Castlemorton Common. The largest flocks noted were 50 at Larford on March 29, 36 at Timberhonger on April 18, 40 at Puckrup during mid-May, 53 at Grimley on August 28,40 at Upton Warren on September 11 and 60 at Ryall on October 2. Staffs Monthly maxima at Westport:

J F M A M J J A s O N O

30 30 45 10 3 4 4 3 7 40 17 6 30 flew north over Belvide on April 24. The species is a conspicuous visible migrant at coastal stations but there are few records from our area. Several garden records included an aggressive male on a peanut feeder in Stafford. Largest flocks were 100 at Blithfield on September 9, 90 at Shobnall on March 27,70 at Doxey on August 26,65 at Cannock Wood on September 25, 60 at both Croxall on September 22 and Atherstone on January 3, with 20-30 at four other sites. W Mid Six pairs bred at Wyken Slough (up from three in 1992). Also present in the breeding season on the Mons Hill CBC plot, with probable breeding in Sandwell Valley and Valley Park. Several flocks of up to 30 birds noted; numbers in excess of this included 40 in Sandwell Valley on August 22, 40 at Fens Pools on September 15 and 58 at Wyken Slough on September 20. Noted at a further 19 sites. Several observers reported birds feeding on garden nut feeders.

Siskin Carduelis spinus Warks The last records of the first winter period were again late. One flew over Pack- ington on May 3 and three were seen in possible breeding habitat at Cough- ton Park on May 7. A very unusual June record occurred on 26 at Brandon. In the first winter period there were only a few flocks reported, with maxima of 27 at Coombe, 30 at Close Wood, 100 at Kingsbury (January 1) and 25 at Packington. Birds re-appeared on September 19 with a single at Brandon, but by 25 there were 20 at Packington. Flock sizes were greater in this period, but not in the south of the county where 50 at llmington was by far the best number. Maxima included 75 at Brandon, 60 at Draycote, 85 at Ladywalk and 60 at Packington. Worcs Present during the breeding season at Callow Hill. In Coldridge Wood, an estimated 600 on January 24 had grown to an exceptional 1300-1700 by March 7. Otherwise widely reported in the first winter period, with flocks of 161

100 at Bittell on January 17, 80 on February 2 and 60 on 4. In autumn, there were 80 at Hewell Grange on October 9, 60 in Happy Valley on 11, 100 at Upton Warren on November 2 and 60 there on 20, 90 along the R. Severn below Stourport on November 27 and 52 at Arrow Valley Lake on 30. Staffs Widely reported throughout the county, though no breeding records this year. Notable flocks included: peaks of 80 at Westport in February and 170 in December; 150 at Pendeford Mill NR on January 31 (a site record); over 100 at Seven Springs on February 26; 100 at Rudyard on December 14; 75 at Sheepwalks, Enville on January 16; up to 50 at Coombes Valley in October and November, and 20 at Keele University on September 20. Also reported from 16 other localities, with several records at garden bird-feeders. W Mid Present in the breeding season on the Mons Hill CBC plot. The largest flocks in the first winter period were 50 at on January 5, 31 in Hayhead Wood on. 16, 60 in Sutton Park on 18 and 30 in Dorridge Park on 27. Second winter period maxima were generally smaller, although over 100 were counted in Dorridge Park on November 7, 35 in Sandwell Valley regularly during Decem- ber and more than 30 at Sheepwash UP on December 28. An exceptional autumn passage reported from Wyken Slough, with a total of 93 recorded on 17 dates between September 19 and December 31 (usually less than ten bird-days here in previous years). Flocks up to 25 strong were reported from a further 30 localities, predominantly garden records! Exceptionally wide- spread this year.

Linnet Carduelis cannabina Warks The summer count at BAD Kineton recorded 86 birds, the best total during 1987-93. The average during this period was 35 birds. The first winter period had fewer good flocks. Maxima of 50 at Alvecote, 140 at Chesterton, 150 at Draycote, 85 at Exhall and 95 at Kingsbury. On January 3, a large finch flock at Packington contained 200 Linnets. This was the best number within a mixed flock, which fed in a game cover of millet, kale and mustard. In autumn, there were two very large flocks: up to 400 at Bramcote and 450 near Bentley during November and December. Elsewhere, maxima of: 150 at Dosthill, 270 at Draycote, 100 at Flecknoe, 150 at Grandborough, 120 at Oversley Green, 200 at Packington and 150 at The Somers. Worcs Counts of breeding pairs came from: Castlemorton Common (16), Hollybed Common (three) and Old Hills (ten). Early winter flocks at Grimley, with 200 on January 23 and 250 on February 14 and at Holt, with 450 on March 7. During the autumn, flocks of 100 were seen at Church Lench on August 28 and Kinsham GP on August 29, while at Ryall 250 were present on September 4 and October 2. There were 100 at Tibberton on October 10,150 at Island Coppice on December 12 and 180 in Deerfold Wood on 24. Staffs Bred successfully at Belvide (three pairs). The largest flocks were 200 at Blithfield on April 4 with 100 there on September 19,400 at Hixon on Septem- ber 21 and 130 at Whitemoor Hay on December 29. At Belvide, autumn numbers slowly built up from 35 on July 30 to 76 on August 3 and 100 on December 17. Flocks of 20-50 reported from five other sites, including War- wickshire Moor. Here an increase was noted, with 45 on April 15. 162

W Mid Breeding reported from Bartley, the Fowlers Park area, Knowle (not common in this area), Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Wyken Slough (several pairs but fewer than the previous year). Possibly bred in Valley Park and on Pelsall North Common. Early year flocks included: 180 in two groups near Aldridge GC on January 4, 50 at Pedmore on 14, 200 feeding on set-aside near Aldridge cricket field on 26, 85 at Longford on February 8 and up to 90 in Sandwell Valley during April. The only sizeable flock in the second winter period concerned a roost at Wyken Slough, which peaked at 105 on November 8. This species may be in decline.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris Staffs On the North Staffs Moors reports came from: Drystone Edge, six including three juveniles on July 28 AH, Flash, two on August 8 JJB; Knotbury, two on May 9 PDH, four on 18 AB, two on June 7 NC and nine on September 5 AH; Merril Grove Farm, one on June 13 LC, BDC; the Roaches, an adult feeding two juveniles on July 4 JJB; and Thorncliffe, a singing male on May 5 AL. Away from the moors, there was one at Rolleston-on-Dove on February 14 TB, while Mow Cop produced one flying over on March 15 WJL, followed by four more on 16 PJ.

Redpoll Carduelis flammea cabaret Warks This is now a scarce breeding species, with summer records only from Bentley, Leamington, Oakley Wood and Packington. Outside the breeding season there were up to 15 at many sites, with the best flocks as follows: 40 at Alvecote on October 3,45 at Brandon on January 8 and 75 on October 18, 55 at Close Wood on March 16, 50 at Draycote on December 14, 50 at Oakley Wood on October 27 and 43 at Ufton Fields on March 10. Worcs No information received about any breeding activity. Numbers remained low during the first winter period, with 65 at Orleton on January 1, 40 in the Wyre Forest on April 24 and 60 at Mamble on April 28, being the largest flocks. Elsewhere, there were parties of 30 at Bittell and Trench Wood, 20 at Powick Bridge and Shortwood Roughs, with smaller numbers at eight other sites. In autumn, the largest flocks were of 20 at Monkwood and Upton Warren on October 3 and 24 respectively, 55 at Castlemorton Common on December 5, with up to 80 at Trench Wood and smaller parties at ten other sites. Staffs Breeding season records came only from Five Clouds plantation (five singing males), Swallow Moss arid Westport. Under-recorded, yet definitely declining as a breeding bird. The larger winter flocks included 65 at Westport and 30 at Keele in January and 200 at The Punch Bowl on December 16, while spring parties of 20 were seen at Elford, Fauld, Longsdon Woods, Tittesworth and Warwickshire Moor. A total of 39 flew south over Chasewater on October 10. Smaller numbers were seen elsewhere and there were several garden reports. W Mid A pair bred successfully for the first time at Woodshires Green. Other breed- ing season records came from Brownhills Common, Mons Hill, Norton, Sand- well Valley, Wall Heath and Wyken Slough. The largest gatherings involved 25 at Sheepwash UP on February 14, up to 30 in Valley Park from mid-March 163

through to early April, 27 south-west at Wyken Slough on October 10 (with 17 more south on 24) and 60 in Sutton Park on October 25. Records of smaller numbers up to 15 were received from a further 14 sites, including several gardens.

Mealy Redpoll C. f. flammea Staffs One identified at Westport on January 2, consorted with 50 cabaret Redpolls. JPM. 1987 Addendum W Mid Four at Plants Brook Res. on April 2 JJB.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Warks Occasional visits to coniferous woodland by a few observers can still pro- duce: 13 at Asplands Husk Coppice on July 6 and a single at Temple Pool on October 25. Worcs A better year. One on May 8 at Callow Hill was followed by four at Shavers End on June 12, 13 at Asplands Husk Coppice (Cookhill) on July 6 and one at Shavers End on July 17. Two were in Lickey Woods on August 29, four flew south at Suckley Knowle on September 19 and 45 were in the New Parks area of the Wyre Forest on September 21. Movement of birds west- wards through Happy Valley was observed on October 24 (14), .29 (11), 31 (three) and November 4 (seven). Also in October, 70 were at New Parks again on 26 and 25 in Arley Wood on 27. Numbers declined in November, with two in North Quarry on 6, nine in Arley Wood on 12 and six along Dowles Brook on 18. In December only one was seen, at Temple Dingle on 5. Staffs Single males at Blithfield on January 28 and Chartley Moss on February 24, were followed by two at Rowe's Wood, Stafford on March 27 and April 3. A small flurry of late summer records included 25 at German Cemetary (Cannock Chase) on July 4, parties of five and seven west at Belvide on 10, one north at Blithfield on 11 and one west at Westport on August 7. W Mid Four flew over the Hob's Moat area of Solihull on June 26. One flew south over Netherton Res. on August 8, with two over Fens Pools on October 7 and a further two here on November 18.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Warks Pairs bred at: Alvecote (three), Brandon, Coombe (three), Draycote (two), Hawkesbury (three), Kingsbury (three), Napton Res., Oakley Wood (three), Packington, Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res! A flock of 45 feeding on haws at Brandon on December 2 was a very good count. Well represented at BAD Kineton, where 23 were seen on the summer count. This number was slightly higher than the average for 1987-93. Worcs In the breeding season, a few pairs were recorded along the Malvern Hills and in the Old Hills area. Probably also bred at Tlmberhonger and Upton Warren. Thinly spread around North Worcestershire, but perhaps a little more numerous in late 1993 than in the previous couple of years. The largest recorded party was seven at Castlemorton Common on November 21. Staffs Three pairs bred at Belvide, where there were 14 on December 14. Other 164

counts included up to 20 on the Lower Avenue at Chillington, ten at War- wickshire Moor on October 17 and nine at Westport on November 20. W Mid Breeding season records from: Hayhead Wood, Knowle, Mons Hill CBC plot (two territories), Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park, Valley Park (numbers appear stable), Woodshires Green and Wyken Slough (four pairs). An exceptional peak of 30 occurred at Wyken Slough on September 26, attracted by a heavy berry crop. Noted at five other sites, an unobtrusive and under-recorded species.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes A sharp decline at known sites since 1991, although probably still overlooked in some districts. Most records this year were in the last two months, suggest- ing a small influx.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 117 157 258 222 155 Warks A female fed on fallen hornbeam seeds at Coombe on November 25. Subse- quently it could not be located, but the large number of hornbeams at this locality may bode well for this species re-occurrence in the future. Worcs Breeding season records were received from Callow Hill, with six birds on April 18 and four on May 9. One was seen flying over Castlemorton Common on July 24. Up to seven were present at Crowle between November 21 and December 7, while there were two at Chase End Hill on December 26. Staffs One at Westport on December 21 was the first record for the site. No other records in yet another poor year. W Mid Two flying west over Woodshires Green on November 5 and one feeding on haws at Wyken Slough on December 1, were part of a small influx into the Coventry area. How many more went undetected?

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis The poorest showing since 1983.

1969-73 1974-78 1979-83 1984-88 1989-93

No. of birds 30 36 10 49 36 Warks One flew over Chase Lane on November 7 PFA. Worcs One flew north over Happy Valley calling on November 4 SMW and another flew over Oakley on November 21 RM.

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Warks Six pairs were present at Alvecote, seven at Brandon and six at Walsgrave Hill. 17 males were singing in 2 km2 of mixed farmland at Bulkington on June 5 and 55 were counted at BAD Kineton on May 23. In the first winter period there were flocks of 40 at Brandon and Chase Lane, 60 at Chesterton, 100 at Exhall, 50 at Radway and 45 at Whitestone (Nuneaton). In the second winter period, 35 at Chesterton, 50 at Copston Magna, 45 at Priors Hardwick and 50 at Radway. 165

Worcs Breeding pairs at Kemerton (two), Little Comberton, near Ripple and at Short- wood Roughs. Eight singing males were counted at Timberhonger. The breeding season census on the Malvems indicated a considerable drop in numbers. The highest count of the year was of 200 in a stubble field at Broughton Hackett on January 27. Other flocks early in the year included 70 on Bredon Hill on January 2, 60 at Hollybush Common on 16, 50 at Norton on 25, 60 at Trench Wood on February 4 and 55 at Crowle in late March. Fewer were seen in the autumn, with only 25 at Shavers End on July 17, 50 on Bredon Hill on November 21 and 25 north of Peopleton on November 27. Staffs Formerly abundant near Lower Avenue, Chillington but now very rarely recorded. 70 on the outskirts of Cheadle on February 28 and 100 there on December 19 were the largest flocks reported, with 40 at Wilnecote on January 9 the only other report of more than 25. W Mid Breeding season territories at: Aldridge, Barr Common, Bartley, Bradnock's Marsh (two), Fens Pools (two or three), Hillfield Park, Marston Green, Park Lime Pits (five), Sandwell Valley (12-15), Sutton Park, Valley Park and Wyken Slough (two). The only notable winter concentrations comprised 60 at Long- ford during January and February and up to 40 near Bosty Lane, Aldridge in December.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Warks Pairs were present in the breeding season at: Alvecote (five), Bulkington (three), Chesterton (eight), Coombe (six), Dosthill (ten), Draycote (seven), Jubilee Pools (two), Marlcliff (three), Napton Res. (three) and Walsgrave Hill (three). The birds at Bulkington and Walsgrave Hill were in dry arable fields, mostly rape. There were hardly any reports of winter flocks, only small num- bers were seen at a handful of sites. 25 at Chesterton on April 2 was the best number. Worcs Breeding season territories recorded at Castlemorton Common (one), Oakley (ten), Timberhonger (one) and Wilden (five). The maximum recorded outside the breeding season was 40 roosting in Phragmites at Lower Moor on January 17. Staffs 15 adults and nine juveniles were trapped at Betley Mere (constant effort site) compared with 20 and three respectively in 1992. Ten singing males at Belvide and three breeding pairs at Warwickshire Moor, were much as last year. A roost in Phragmites at Betley Mere totalled 75 on December 31. Other flocks included 20 at Wilnecote on January 9 and 20 at Cheadle on December 19. W Mid Breeding territories reported from: Bartley, Bradnock's Marsh (nine), Cornets End (two), Fens Pools (four), Foleshill Gasworks, Fowlers Park, Knowle (two), Park Lime Pits (four), Pelsall North Common, Sandwell Valley (approxi- mately 25), Sutton Park (at least seven along the Longmoor Valley), the Valley Park area and Wyken Slough (seven). Outside the breeding season, the largest gathering comprised 27 in a field off Bosty Lane, Aldridge on December 28. Frequent winter visitors to gardens in Monkspath, Sutton Cold- field and south Walsall. 166

Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra Warks In the breeding season, singing males were recorded at: Bidford-on-Avon (three), Bodymoor Heath, Chesterton (two), Coombe Area (three), Dosthill, Harbury, Marlcliff, Offchurch, Over Whitacre, Poolfields, Priors Marston, Was- (six), Wellesbourne (several) and Wishaw (three). The best flock was in the Wishaw area, where tnere were 70 on February 4 and 49 on November 27, with usually up to 30 present. 27 were seen at Chesterton on March 16 and at least this number at Marton in late February. 20 were at Chesterton on October 27 and ten at Bramcote on December 5. Worcs Singing males were reported at Barnet Brook, Broome (two), Church Lench, Crowle, Doverdale (two), Inkberrow, Lower Moor, Peopleton (three), Ripple (three), Shenstone (two), Throckmorton (three), and Upton Snodsbury (two). Seen in most months at Kempsey Lower Ham, with seven on January 6 and four on February 2. Two were on Ashmoor Common, Kempsey on June 1 and July 17, while five were seen south of Norton on May 21, with six there on June 12. Elsewhere, six at Shorthorn wood on January 9, 31 at Littleworth on January 10, six at Larford on March 6 and five there on December 26. Two were seen at Kemerton on April 25, 10 on Bredon Hill on May 3 and six at Abberton on November 27. Five birds were singing at Peopleton on the unusual date of November 27. Staffs 49 singing males reported from: Blithfield, Clifton Campville, Elford, Fradley Airfield, Hixon, Talke, Thorpe Constantine area, Weeford, Wombourne and Whitemoor Hay. No less than 22 of these were at the latter locality, where described as abundant. Winter flocks included 26 at Stoneydelph on January 9, 20 at Wilnecote on 24 and 20 at Fradley Airfield on December 1. The BTO Corn Bunting survey conducted in 1992-93 found 96-100 singing males in the county, with a total estimate of 150 present. It was thought to be holding its own in most areas, but with a possible decline south-west of Wolverhampton and south of Lichfield. No particular crop seemed to be specially favoured, though some observers noted the importance of weedy, set-aside stubble per FCG. W Mid Singing males were noted at Druid's Heath in Aldridge, on the county boun- dary near Iverley (two or three), Pedmore (two), on the county boundary in the Hill Wood area north of Sutton Coldfield (three, often joined by a fourth from Weeford, Staffs) and in the Wiggins Hill/Wishaw area (three or four). Eight were in this latter area on February 6, 25 roosted in the Longmoor area of Sutton Park on March 4 and 15 flew over Brownhills Common on March 26.

Exotica The sequence followed and nomenclature used in this section is that advocated by Howard and Moore (1991: A Complete Checklist of the Birds of the World). Species in category D of the BOURC British and Irish list are indicated: (D1, possible vagrants) or (D4, feral breeding species, not yet fully established). Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolor Tropical wetlands from southern USA to Argentina, Africa, India, Burma. Warks One at Coombe from March 21 to 31 and again on April 15 and 16. 167

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia and (introduced) New Zealand. Warks One on the R. Arrow at Alcester on August 22 and at Draycote from September 2 to the end of the year. Worcs A bird presumed to have originated from the collection at Becktord was at Bredon's Hardwick on May 26 and August 15 and was back at Beckford on December 19.

Swan Goose Anser cygnoides Steppe lakes and marshes in China, now rare. The domesticated form ("Chinese Goose") is common in captivity in Britain. • W Mid One on Hydes Road Pool on November 15.

Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus (D4) Breeds on high plateaux in central and southern Asia, winters mainly in north India. Warks One at Coombe on March 29. Worcs One was reported from Pirton in February, June, September and December and was presumably the same as one at Bredon's Hardwick, also during November and December. Staffs The pair that had arrived at Westport in 1992 remained throughout the year.

Ross's Goose Anser rossii Breeds on tundra of central Arctic Canada, winters to western USA and Texas. Worcs Two adults at Beckford on February 6. Staffs One at Blithfield on January 3 and 10 and one present from September 29 to the end of the year.

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata (D4) Domesticated. Wild birds inhabit forested swamplands in Central and South America. W Mid A female in Valley Park on April 10.

Ringed Teal Callonetta leucophrys Forest pools in southern South America. Worcs One was seen at Bredon's Hardwick from March 11 to at least May 25. Staffs A full-winged female at Chasewater throughout the year.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa (D4) Forested wetlands in North America. Staffs A female on the canal in Burton on March 27.

Chiloe Wigeon Anas sibilatrix Open wetlands in southern South America and the Falkland Islands. Warks Singles at Draycote on October 17 and Brandon on November 2. W Mid One at Cornets End on September 12. 168

Cape Teal Anas capensis Open wetlands in sub-Saharan Africa. Warks A female at Draycote on April 4.

Chestnut Teal Anas castanea Coastal wetlands of southern and eastern Australia. Worcs Three reported at Mill Pond on October 4.

Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris (D1) Lakes in the Mediterranean basin and south-west Asia. Staffs One at Chasewater on June 26, November 6, December 4 and 24.

Maccoa Duck Oxyura maccoa Lakes in eastern and southern Africa. Worcs A male at Westwood on May 17 moved to Upton Warren from May 22 to 23. It then returned to Westwood, where it remained until August 9.

Lanner Falco biarmicus Arid open country in Africa, south-east Europe and the Middle East. Worcs One without jesses was on Bredon Hill from July 28 to September 18.

Saker Falco cherrug (D1) Open plains and lightly-wooded land from Austria east to China. Worcs One sporting jesses was on Bredon Hill on May 6.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Interior of Australia. Staffs Singles noted at Westport on July 28 and August 16, Grindon on May 3, and Mottley Meadows on August 23. W Mid One flying over Aldridge on May 6.

Budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus Domesticated forms of a species widespread in Australia. Warks A blue-and-white one was at Coton on February 9, with another at Brandon on April 19 and 20. Staffs One at Westport on January 27. W Mid A green bird over Wyken Slough on August 2.

Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus Lowland forest of Central Africa, Sierra Leone east to Kenya. Staffs One seen flying arounds the tennis courts in Lichfield on June 22.

Parrot sp. Warks An unidentified, large green short-tailed parrot (possibly a Yellow-crowned Amazon Amazona ochrocephala) was at Draycote on and around August 31. Another unidentified bird was at Ladywalk on November 20. 169

Red-whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocusus Cultivation and settlements in south-east Asia, southern China to India. Worcs One remained in gardens near Hewell Grange from late June to at least November 20. Staffs One al Fradley on November 15.

Mynah sp. Acridotheres sp.? Asia. Worcs One was at Little Comberton on August 7.

Zebra Finch Poephila guttata Arid interior of Australia. Common as a cage-bird. Warks One at Brandon on May 25.

Short Notes Icterine Warbler at Belvide - a first for Staffs On Saturday, July 10th, I went on my usual visit to Belvide with Ian Moore. The day was fairly cool with heavy showers and a moderate north-westerly wind. On looking out of the first hide I noticed there were seven superb summer-plumage Black-tailed Godwits in view; these had not been present on my previous visit so were an encouraging sign that some birds were moving. The two of us then took our usual stroll to the Bryant hide. After scanning for a while I looked to see if the Little Ringed Plovers were still attending their nest at the far western end. To my surprise, there was no sign of the adults so we decided to walk to the end of the reservoir to have a closer look. When we reached the lane we scanned from the bridge as normal. After a minute or two my attention was diverted by an unfamiliar song coming from a clump of willow bushes at the end of the marsh nearest to us. I did not say anything to Ian at the time because the bird stopped soon afterwards. I then walked up to the bushes where upon the bird exploded back into song. The song consisted of rich mimicry with a series of bubbly, squeaky notes. On hearing this my first thoughts were Marsh Warbler. I then looked through the bushes and picked up a bird moving low down.-During my brief views I saw what was clearly a warbler but too green for a Marsh warbler, with very obvious pale panelling on the wing. On seeing this, I immediately said to Ian that I thought I'd got an Icterine Warbler. As you would expect, Ian was not very impressed with (his suggestion. Unfortunately for the next half hour the heavens opened and we were left standing around soaked to the skin. When the rain had finally stopped I picked the bird up again, preening and sub-singing on the edge of a branch. I quickly put Ian onto the bird, and after seeing wing panels, long primary projection and the typical peaked crown of a Hippplais warbler we were both very happy the bird was indeed an Icterine Warbler. The blue- grey legs were noted and other useful identification features of the bird were the pale lores and its bulky, pot-bellied look. Size slightly larger than Reed Warbler and noticeably bulkier. The head was typically Hippolais shaped with a peaked crown. The lores were pale, ending just above the eye, giving the bird a 170

distinctive open-faced look. The rest of the face was tinged with yellow. It had a fairly long and stout hill, which was Dinky-yellow in colour with a dark culmen. I he underparts were silvery-white, while upperparts, crown and tail were of a greeny-grey brown hue. L)ark-centerea wing coveils with \ja\v edges were noted but the most obvious feature were the pale wing panels. The primaries were darker with a noticeably long projection extending well on to the upper-tail coverts. Legs were a blue-grey colour. We watched the bird for a further ten minutes, making notes and following it as it moved clumsily through the foliage, occasionally flycatching. Ian then went to the phone box to tell people of the good news while I kept an eye on the bird. In all, 25 people saw the bird which generally showed well down to a range of a few feet. Unfortunately, the bird had disappeared the following day, disappointing many who had travelled to see it. The bird was a first for Staffordshire and second for the Region, an amazing record for the time of year considering that there were no easterly winds which favour the arrival of this species. Steve Nuttal

Arctic Warbler at Blithfield - a Regional first

Arctic Warbler (Phi! Jones)

On September 8 1993 I was walking around the deep end of Blithfield Reservoir, which I normally did during the summer and autumn months. The wind was blowing from the east and there were some heavy showers. I was checking the little wooded dell behind 171 the hide on the western side looking for Lesser Whitethroat or perhaps a Redstart, when I noticed an odd Phylloscopus warbler in the sallows. Closer inspection showed it to have a greeny back and whitish underparts, an obvious wingbar and a long super- cilium. My initial reaction was that it had to be either a Greenish, Arctic or Yellow- browed Warbler; with the latter more likely as it had occurred in the Midlands before. I completed the walk back to my car and then drove up to the causeway. Here I met Vaughan Martin and together we went back to view the bird, later being joined by Andy Latham and Bill Low. Andy was the first to identify it as Arctic, which on further inspec- tion I agreed with. This bird subsequently stayed for a further three days and was seen by very many people. It was the first ever record from an inland area. Larger and chunkier than Willow Warbler seen nearby. The upperparts were a dull olive-green, with noticeable greyish tones to the mantle in good light. The underparts were silky white, suffused with pale smokey-grey. There was one bold wingbar (with the hint of a second) on each wing, formed by whitish tips to the median and greater coverts. A long broad supercilium extended from just in front of the eye right back towards the nape, where it kinked slightly upwards. This was accentuated by a dark eye-stripe running from the base of the bill back to the dusky-mottled ear- coverts. It had a long and fairly stout bill, the darkish upper mandible contrasting with the pale flesh-coloured lower one. The legs were of a bright flesh or orange colour. The only call noted was a quiet "chick". Eric Clare

An aberrant House Martin On the morning of September 19 1993 I was watching a flock of about 25 House Martins, together with one or two Swallows, feeding low over the pool at Wyken Slough, Coventry, when I became aware of a strikingly different bird with them. It super- ficially resembled a juvenile House Martin but lacked the white rump of that species. On closer inspection in good light, it was found that the white was confined to the sides of the rump and the centre had dark feathering with a steely-blue sheen, the same colouring as the mantle. The rest of the plumage was typical of juvenile House Martin, including dusky flanks. Overall it strongly suggested Tree Swallow, a bird I am familiar with in the USA. However, I ruled out this species because juveniles are mainly grey- brown above with clean white flanks, while adults have more of a green sheen to the upperparts. Thoughts of a hybrid Swallow x House Martin were also later discounted, as all the published descriptions I could find (eg Hampshire 1981 and Essex 1992) emphasized an off-white rump among other characters not noted on this bird. I therefore concluded that it was rather an unusual aberrant and one which could quite easily be claimed as a vagrant Tree Swallow under less favourable viewing conditions. Looking through available literature I can find no record of a dark-rumped House Martin. J J Bowley 172

Ringing in 1993 Ringing returns received from ringers show a total of 11,424 birds ringed within the WMBC area during 1993. A total of 83 species were ringed including 3 Cetti's Warblers, 18 Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers and 2 Oystercatchers. Tits account for 36% of the total, finches 24% and thrushes and warblers, 6% and 10% respectively. The use of colour rings is proving to be of immense value to ringers. In some cases a plain colour ring is used to indicate that the bird is from a particular area or colony, but in other cases the ring is individually engraved with a series of letters or numbers or a combination of both, thus enabling a positive identification of the individual to be made without having to recatch the bird. The former technique enabled the observer to trace the origin of the Roseate Tern seen over Eckington Bridge in Worcs, while the latter technique produced a remarkable record of movement in a Mute Swan ringed at Stoke- on-Trent. The furthest distance recorded from where this bird was ringed totalled 134kms, but frequent re-sightings as a result of the colour ring showed that it had in fact moved a total distance of 240km between these two dates. Compare this with the movement record of the Swift from Little Aston. If its total movements could be recorded, they would number many thousands of kilometres. Similarly, the Marsh Warbler which has returned to the same breeding site for five consecutive years will also have travelled many thousands of unrecorded kilometres. In the case of some large birds, individual neck-collars are the best way of obtaining re-sightings especially if the birds are unlikely to allow you to approach quite close. For this reason Bewick's Swans ringed abroad carry neck-collars; the bird sighted in December 1993 coming from Russia. Black-headed Gulls continue to provide a wealth of long distance movements, with birds ringed as pulli during the summer in Norway, Lithuania, Poland, Finland, Sweden and Denmark arriving here in autumn and winter after dispersing from their natal colonies. On the other hand, birds ringed in the WMBC area during the autumn and winter were subsequently recovered during the summer after the return journey, or in subsequent summers, in Finland, Denmark, Holland, Sweden, Germany and Norway. Most of these birds had travelled over 1000 kms to reach their destinations. 1993 produced a spate of good Siskin recoveries, demonstrating the north/south movements of this small attractive finch; it also produced an unusual record of a British Robin moving 78 kms from its site of hatching. The recoveries listed also show a number of longevity records, with a Black-headed Gull at least 16 years of age; a Blackbird ten years old; a Blue Tit, Starling and Marsh Warbler each at least eight years old, and a Rook from Draycote almost 18 years of -age. It was an excellent year for the area's long term ringing studies. The Kingsbury Common Tern colony provided a record 70 ringed nestlings; while Mute Swans showed a 9% increase in breeding pairs and a 5% increase in cygnet production on 1992, with over 362 cygnets ringed within the area. Unfortunately we were not able to visit the Gailey heronry during 1993. Finally it is appropriate that we end with a truly remarkable recovery, not of a migrant but of a Mute Swan. The bird had moved from its ringing site at Gailey to Jutland in Denmark, a staggering journey of 764 kms. 173

I should like to thank all ringers and ringing groups who have sent in their totals and recoveries, their names appear in the contributors list at the back of this report. A E Coleman Ringing Secretary

Selected List of Recoveries involving the WMBC Area Entries are arranged by species and within species by recovery date. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery details on the second. This report includes recoveries for 1993 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years. All foreign recoveries and movements of greater than 100 km (62.14 miles) are included. Treatment of movements of less than 100 km depends on the species involved. Key: Age at Ringing: Sex: Pull Pullus (nestling) M Male Juv Juvenile (young able to fly) F Female 1Y Bird in its first year Manner of Recovery: 2Y Bird in its second year V Caught and released with ring Ad Adult (at least one year old) + Shot or killed Fg Full grown (age uncertain) X Found dead or dying w Ring read in the field ? Mariner of recovery unknown

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement Grey Heron 1280814 Pull 08/05/89 Gailey (Staffs) MRG X 19/04/93 Codsall (Staffs) 10kms

Mute Swan Z66133 Pull 07/08/88 Gailey (Staffs) AEC x 24/02/90 Kongeaslusen, Jylland, Denmark 764kms Z73294 1Y 02/02/91 Stoke (Staffs) DWE V 15/06/91 Wigan (Gt. Manchester) 61kms V 13/07/91 Leigh (Lanes) 53kms V 22/10/91 Wigan (Gt. Manchester) 55kms V 03/11/91 Stoke (Staffs) 0km V 19/12/91 Wigan (Lanes) 57kms V 11/01/92 Bolton (Gt. Manchester) 64kms V 09/03/92 Fleetwood (Lanes) 111kms V 24/06/92 Barrow (Cumbria) 134kms U01592 1Y 27/10/91 Stoke (Staffs) DWE V 11/12/91 Nantwich (Cheshire) 20kms V 07/06/92 Portmadoc (Gwynedd) 137kms

Bewick's Swan 202P 1Y 10/08/92 Pechora Delia, Russia V 20/10/92 Jogeva Province, Estonia V 30/12/92 Welney (Norfolk) V 7/12/93 Barton (Staffs) 174

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

Canada Goose 5123449 Ad 07/07/86 Covenlry (Warks) BRG 16/01/93 Sherborne (Dorset) 180kms

Coot GJ21083 1Y 25/12/91 Tamworlh (Staffs) MRG w 20/01/93 Tamworth (Staffs) 0km

Black-headed Gull MA04772 Pull 11/06/83 Molen, Brunlanes, Vestfold, Norway V 07/12/85 Majors Green (Worcs) ER48978 Pull 09/06/75 Siedlce, Poland V 29/02/92 Throckmorton (Worcs) 1676kms EH96367 Fg 19/02/83 Madeley Heath (Worcs) PI X 19/04/92 Brando, Aland, Finland ST13340 Pull 26/06/90 Pori, Turku-Pori, Finland X 14/10/92 Blithfield (Staffs) 1712kms 376031 Pull 02/06/91 Zatysiai, Jonava, Lithuania w 19/10/92 Stoke (Staffs) 1731kms 6083796 Pull 29/06/92 Hornbomgasjon, Skaraborg, Sweden w 02/11/92 Stoke (Staffs) 1149km 382296 Pull 14/06/91 Klaipeda, Lithuania w 02/11/92 Stoke (Staffs) 1537kms 6241437 Pull 12/06/92 Glaeno Osterfed, Sjaelland, Denmark w 07/11/92 Stoke (Staffs) 922kms EH70527 Juv 17/01/81 Madeley Heath (Worcs) PI X 12/01/93 Hest Bank (Lanes) 194kms EP98747 Ad 12/01/91 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG V 16/02/93 Norwich (Norfolk) 233kms EN91034 Juv 17/01/87 Majors Green (Worcs) PI V 15/06/89 Vlieland, Netherlands w 26/03/93 Groningen, Netherlands ER99234 Ad 05/12/92 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG V 26/03/93 Bronshoj, Sjaelland. Denmark 1031kms EH12592 Ad 23/12/76 Evesham (Worcs) CMH X 04/04/93 Zuidlaren, Drente, Netherlands 595kms EN91174 Ad 24/01/87 Majors Green (Worcs) PI X 25/05/93 Ostemnd, Jamtland, Sweden EN91462 Ad 29/02/92 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG V 23/06/93 Oslo, Norway 1969kms EN82500 Ad 22/02/87 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG v 28/07/93 Schleswig Holstein, Germany 853kms EP84727 Juv 22/12/90 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG v 08/08/93 Needs Ore Point (Hants) I58kms

Lesser Black-backed Gull GG65573 Ad 07/06/90 Isle of May (File) v 19/11/92 Throckmorton (Worcs) 451 kms GG81015 Ad 12/01/91 Throckmorton (Worcs) SEGG V 03/08/93 Colwyn Bay (Clwyd) 171 kms GK68381 Ad 01/01/80 Droitwich (Worcs) SEGG V 16/08/93 Gloucester 47kms 175

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement Roseate Tern XS569— Pull 13/07/89 Innish Island, Wexford, Republic of Ireland vv 21/05/93 Eckington Bridge (Worcs) 291 kms

Barn Owl GT00303 Pull 26/07/93 Chillinglon Hall (Staffs) BS&M x 20/11/93 Nr Marston Green (W Mids) 38kms

Tawny Owl GK50499 Pull 17/05/87 Ribbesford (Worcs) JRM 21/07/93 Bewdley (Worcs) 1km

Swift Ad 22/06/85 Little Aston (W Mids) MRG x 04/06/91 Walsall (W Mids) 7kms

Sand Martin E631402 Ad M 03/06/90 Comets End (W Mids) PI v 22/08/92 St Vigor d'Ymonville, Seine Maritime, France H000908 Ad M 28/06/92 Comets End (W Mids) PI v 04/02/63 Djoudj, Senogal

Swallow H324467 1Y 14/08/91 Betley Mere (Staffs) JAL v 09/09/91 Basildon (Essex) 256kms

Robin J081962 Pull 16/05/93 (Staffs) BS&M x 14/02/94 Rugby (Warks) 78kms

Blackbird Ad M 18/12/82 Aldridge (W Mids) MRG x 25/12/92 Walsall (W Mids) 4kms

Sedge Warbler H829754 Juv 01/08/92 Brandon (Warks) BRG v 30/07/93 Rye Meads (Herts) 119kms H718810 1YF 29/08/92 Icklesham (Sussex) v 03/08/92 Betley Mere (Staffs) 314kms

Marsh Warbler Seen every year from 1988 to 1992 A205110 Ad 25/06/85 Defford (Worcs) GHG v 17/05/93 Defford (Worcs) 0km

Reed Warbler H14276 Fg 17/08/91 Icklesham (Sussex) v 08/08/93 Upton Warren (Worcs) 246kms Blackcap E44197 Fg F 28/08/92 Uplon Warren (Worcs) WRG v 26/09/92 Worthing (Sussex) 198kms 176

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

J13273 JuvF 04/07/93 Hathersage (Derbys) V 29/08/93 Great Malvern (Worcs) 138kms

Pied Flycatcher E947961 Pull 07/06/89 . Bewdley (Worcs) JRM V 18/05/93 Hollybush (Worcs) 39kms H426260 Pull 06/06/92 Mary Knoll (Worcs) M&P V 06/06/93 Brand Green (Worcs) 42kms

Blue Tit A919765 2Y 11/02/85 Malvern (Worcs) WRG x 22/01/93 Malvern (Worcs) 0km

Jay DA39B47 Fg 05/04/87 Keele University (Staffs) JAL X 17/03/92 Keele University (Staffs) 0km

Rook EF57490 Pull 10/05/75 Draycote Reservoir (Warks) BRG X 31/03/93 Rugby (Warks) 6kms

Starling — Ad M 03/04/86 Wolverhampton (W Mids) MRG x. 21/04/93 Wednesfield (W Mids) 4kms XP83367 Ad 10/02/85 Highley (Salop) DF X 14/08/93 Gailey (Staffs) 32kms

Chaffinch E074045 Fg 24/01/87 Bewdley (Worcs) DF V 26/01/93 Oost-Vlaanderen, Belgium 444kms V 12/02/93 Oost-Vlaanderen, Belgium H433576 Fg 01/12/91 Anglesey (Wales) V 30/03/92 Malvern Link (Worcs) 200kms H487752 2Y 02/02/92 Sandon (Staffs) BS&M X 15/06/93 Nesna, Nordland, Norway 1711kms

Greenfinch — Ad M 21/11/92 Packington Hall (Warks) MRG V 27/03/93 Shimpling, Nr Diss (Norfolk) 193kms VJ79885 Jiiv F 30/12/91 Coventry (Warks) BRG X 04/05/93 Holbeach (Lines) 107kms VN17141 Fg M 20/12/92 Aston Bridge (Staffs) BS&M V 27/11/93 Huntingdon (Cambs) 121kms

Siskin H730077 Fg 24/03/92 (Staffs) BS&M V 09/02/93 Glencaple (Dumfries and Galloway) 275kms F473686 1YM 04/08/91 Katrine (Central Scotland) V 08/03/92 Malvern Link (Worcs) 480kms J115934 2Y M 07/03/93 Codsall (Staffs) BS&M V 22/03/93 Carlisle (Cumbria) 252kms 177

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

Siskin H724984 FgM 05/04/92 Codsall (Staffs) BSSM V 00/04/93 Glencaple (Dumfries and Galloway) 280kms — Juv M 13/03/93 Sutton Coldfield (W Mids) MRG V 12/04/93 Hutton Gate (Cleveland) 222kms H724972 FgM 02/04/92 Codsall (Staffs) BSSM V 21/04/93 Maryburgh (Highland Region, Scotland) 569kms JOS1931 2Y M 25/03/93 (Staffs) BSSM V 23/04/93 Carlisle (Cumbria) 231 kms C16R341 Fg M 12/02/03 (Stalls) BSSM V 26/04/93 Clochan (Grampian Region, Scotland) 511kms J079268 2YM 01/04/93 Brewood (Staffs) BSSM V 26/12/93 Windlesham (Surrey) 179kms 178

Key to Contributors The followinp people and organisations have kindly provided information for this Report. Our sincere apologies if we have omitted anyone. In total there were 354 oon tributors to the Classified List.

J Abbiss L Carthy D J Ford 0 J Abbott G Cave J E Fortey J L Alitor) S L Cawthray M Fox P Anstis J E Chambers E French G J Ariss J A Chidwick P French M A Arnold E S Clare J Frost N G Arnold P Clarke D Fulton J A Asbury K M Clements R Fussell K Aslett K Clifford P F Atherton D Clifton N D Galloway. D J Clifton P G Gamer P Bache (BS & M) T Clifton S J Gater T Bagworth A E Coleman G I Giles E Bainbridge 0 A Coles R Gillett M Baines T Coleshaw A Glover R F Baird B Cook A G Goodwin B Baker M Cresswell D N Gosling S Baldwin (SB) S Croft G Greaves (GG) Banbury Ornithological Society (BOS) A Curran G H Green 0 Barber P A Curry F C Gribble A J Barker C Griffin SRJ Barker P Dalley (PD) C E Griffin N P Barlow. A R Dean C M Griffiths D Barr (DB) S R Deane G Grove L R Bayes P K Dedicoal J V Gulley M 0 Baynes (MDB) H Dennant J T Belsey A Dickie PM Hackett Belvide log S Dix M Hadlington E Blunt L A Dolman A Halliday (AHy) S Bodnar A K Dolphin A Hancock (AH) M D Boole (MDBo) M Doughty T Hanninglon (TH) B Bowler P Downing R E Harbird J J Bowley Doxey Marsh Bird Watching Group T Harley P V Bradley (DMBWG) P A Harper R W Bradley T Doyle G R Harrison Brandon Marsh Conservation Group B Draper J V Harrison (JVH) Brandon Ringing Group (BRG) F Draper M Harrison (MH) J H Brindle Draycote log S L Haycox B Brookes (BB) R E Duckhouse G M Hayes IA Brown S M Dungey S M Haynes R Brownsword S Heam M Bryanl S Edwards S Hearn (SH) M A Bryant D W Emley C M Hammings A Brydges S M Emley S G A Hextell P J Butler W B Emms T C Hextell R F E Butler M Ennis R Higgins (RHi) C Buxton D A Evans J K Higginson M Buxton G Evans D I Hill W Buxton T Evans R A Hill T M Hinett 0 Campbell (DC) P J Finden J R Hodson N Carter N A Follows M J Hollis B D Carthy P A Forbes R Hollis (RH) 179

J V Holtham T W Marshall I N Ricketts R R Howl J P Martin D Roberts S J Huggins R Maskew C H Roe M Hughes (MHu) K L M Mays D H Rogers R V C Humphreys R C Mays S A Roper R Hntrhins K MrGen G W Russon J Hyde B A McLean M W Russon P D Hyde I McLean (IMc) C McShane (BS & M) Sanaweu valley Birders (SVB) M J Inskip Mercian Ringing Group (MRG) D J Scanlan (DJS) P Ireland M Metcall D A Scatlergood B Micklewrighl I P Scott A G Jackson H J Miller R E Scott • Jackson (DJa) P Mollatt D J Severn W T Jackson A A Moore Severn Estuary Gull Group (SEGG) A F Jacobs I Moore (IM) A Shearwood (BS 4 M) S Jaggs D Morgan A G Shepherd M 0 James N J Morgan A J Shepherd R J Jennett H C Morrall K Simmons D A Jennings J R Mountford D Simpson (OS) 0 S Jennings G Simpson (GS) D W Jennings R H J Nash J H Sirrett D Johnson (DJ) P P Newell 0 Skidmore (DSk) G J Jones J L Newman F J Skinner G N Jones P A J Newman R W Slater L L Jones G K Nicholls T G Smart P Jones A Nolan G J Soden P Jordan T Nortedge P Sofley S D Norman J P South P P Kelly S Nuttal M D Southall (MDS) J Kendal TSpry D J Kightley J Oakes M Squire D King M F Oliver M Squires R J King N F Osborne M A Stephens B L Kington C C Owen G Stewart P Knight P F Stewart N A Packer F G Stokes G D Laight N Page J D Sutton D Lancashire M W Painting L Sutton C J Lane F Peplow M Sutton A J Last G H Peplow M D Sutton (MDSu) A Latham W F Peplow P J Swinhoe 0 Lawrence (DL) W R H Peplow J A Lawrence T A Perry J C Teasdale R Lee E G Phillips P Ten Hoeve J Lennon D Pickard R J Thomas D I Long RW Price A H Thomas W J Low M Priest K H Thomas (KHT) B J Lowe G Pullan M Till L Lowe C J Timmins W G Luton H S Quiney C Toll KLyon K H Tromans J Raby E H Tunniclilte M R MacFadyen R Randall I R Machin R B Ralclifle Valley Park Bird Group (VPBG) Malvern Hills Conservators M D Payment G J Mant B Reavey J Wagstaff (JW) T Marlow J Reece (JR) P A Wain B M Marsh P F Rhodes SWain 180

D Waite (DW) B Westwood G T Woodin D I M Wallace A J Whitehead S Wood B M Ward P F WhitRhnart M Woodward (MW) P Ward I C Whitehouse M A Woodward (MAW) R Wardle (RW) S M Whitehouse M W C Woodward T Ware J Wilkinson P Worthy (PW) K Warmington (KW) T W Willey D Wright (DWr) C Warmy A G Williams G C Wright A Warr H E Wilson Ringing Group (WPG) M Watertiouse J Wilson J Watson (JWI) M A Wilson 0 W Yalden L Watson R Wilson (RWi) M Yapp J Wayne (JWn) K Wimbush (KWi) R Yapp C J West M G Woodhams

Submission of Records All contributors are asked to follow the guidelines set out in the booklet A Checklist of the West Midlands and a Guide to Status and Record Submission second edition (1989). All records should be sent to the relevant County Recorder as soon as possible after the observation. Records received after January 31 the following year, will be too late for publication. A full description is not necessary for the less rare or difficult species detailed below but enough to show how the species was identified. Such descriptions should be accompanied by brief details of the circumstances and the observer's experience of that and other similar species. Lack of acceptable descriptions may lead to records being rejected. Records of the following species will NOT be published unless they are supported by adequate descriptions: All national rarities All out-of-season migrants Unusual races Divers; Grebes, other than Great Crested or Little; Petrels and Shearwaters; Gannet and Shag; Herons other than Grey; Storks and Spoonbill; Whooper Swan; Geese, other than Canada, Greylag or feral species; Ruddy Shelduck, Red-crested Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, Eider, Long-tailed Duck, all Scoter spp except Common, Smew, Red-breasted Merganser; Birds of Prey, except Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Kestrel and Hobby; Quail and Golden Pheasant; Crakes other than Water Rail; Common Crane; Avocet, Stone Curlew, Kentish Plover, Dotterel, Temminck's Stint, Pectoral Sandpiper, Purple Sandpiper, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Phalaropes; Skuas; The following gulls, Mediterranean, Sabine's, Ring-billed, Yellow-legged, Iceland and Glaucous; Roseate Tern; Auks; Nightjar, other than Cannock Chase records; Hoopoe; Wryneck; Woodlark and Shore Lark; Pipits, Richard's, Tawny and Water; Wagtails, Blue-headed and other flava races, White (autumn only); Bluethroat, Black Redstart; Warblers, Cetti's, Savi's, Aquatic, Marsh, Icterine, Melodious, Dartford, Yellow-browed; Firecrest; Red-breasted Flycatcher; Golden Oriole; Shrikes; Chough, Hooded Crow and Raven (except Malverns records); Finches, Serin, and Twite; Buntings, Lapland, Snow, Cirl and Ortolan.