Cover Photograph: Aquatic Warbler Peter Walsh CORNWALL BIRD-WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY Sixtieth Annual Report 1990

St. George Printing Works Ltd., Redruth. Tel: 217033 CONTENTS

Officers for 1991 3 Treasurers Report 4 Chairmans Report 6 Conservation Officers Report 8 Editorial and Review of the Year 11 Contributors 20 Species List for 1990 22 Exotica 146 BBRC decisions 146 Birds handled by the R.S.P.C.A, Perranporth 147 The changing status of the Hen Harrier in Cornwall 149 Diving birds wintering in St Austell Bay 159 Ringing Report 1989 and 1990 163 Check List of the birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly 167 Rules 172

2 Officers 1991-92

President: Sir Alan Dalton, C.B.E., D.L. Chairman: L.A. Smith, 21 Vicarage Meadows, Fowey. Vice Chairman: R.J.Hooton, 17 Hawkens Way, St Columb Major. General Secretary: M. Lawson, Fieldfares, St Giles Drive, Wadebridge. Treasurer and Registrar: A. F. Reynolds, 33 Treworder Road, Truro Field Meetings Officer: D. L. Thomas, Mirador, Whitecross, Nr. Newquay Conservation Officer: A.R. Pay, 13 Tregellas Road, Mullion. Assistant Conservation Officer: V.A. Stratton, 2 Alexandra Road, St Ives. Public Relations Officer: Mrs. E. McKenzie, Tregarrick, St Mawgan-in-Pydar. Newsletter Editor: F. M. Couch, 29 Roman Drive, Bodmin Officer for Youth and Education: Mrs A.C. Hathway, Langurra, Meadow End, Green Lane, Crantock, Newquay Recorder and Editor "Birds in Cornwall": S. M. Christophers, "Bramblings", Rachel's Way, St. Columb Major Assistant Recorder and Editor: E.J.Cook, 8 Trewethey Way, Newquay, TR7 2AD Joint Secretary, Recorders and Editors * Isles of Scilly Bird Report' W.H. Wagstaff, 42 Sally Port, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 OJE and P. Robinson, Riviera House, The Strand, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly Committee Members: D.A. Conway (Bodmin), and S.C. Hutchings (Penryn) - retire 1992, D. Lord (Polzeath) and Dr J.F. Ryan (Penzance) - retire 1993. B.T. Craven (Launceston), S.F. Jackson (Falmouth), D.I. Julian (Wadebridge), D. Lewis (Camborne) and Mrs H.C. Pay (Mullion) - retire 1994.

3 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1990

1989 1990 £ £ £ INCOME Subscriptions 3,680 Annual Membership 3,748 579 Tax refund on covenanted subscriptions 556

4,259 4,304 312 Donations 385 350 388

31 War Loan 32 1,146 N.S.B. Investment Account 340 2,114 3,954

3,291 4,326 Other Income 1,209 Sale of Annual Reports — Scilly 1,212 372 — Mainland 382 180 Other Sales and income 212 1,761 1,806

9,973 11,209 Less: GENERAL EXPENDITURE Annual Reports, 1989: 2,245 Mainland 2,425 1,515 Scilly 1,500 370 News Letters 466 395 Other Printing and Stationery 702 695 Postages and Telephone 887 435 Rents, Licences and Insurance 364 _ Bank Charges 135 268 Hide and Reserve expenses 242 Subscriptions and donations 32 to Societies 51 64 Goods for resale 51 234 Miscellaneous 217

6,253 7,065

3,720 4,144 Less: SPECIAL EXPENDITURE _ Reserves equipment (net of NCC grant of £494 .. 509 _ Scillies hide repair grant 200 - Typewriter for County Recorder 249 - Display Equipment 168 989 New Hide-Drift Reservoir - (812) New Hide-Stithians - 398 Walmsley Sanctuary Development - 150 St John's Lake Hide - 50 Cornwall Biological Record Unit - 775 1,126 £2,945 EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE £3,018

4 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER, 1990

1989 1990 £ £ £ INVESTMENTS £902.24 3±°/o War Loan at market price at 329 31st December, 1990 303 2,724 NSB Investment Account 3,064

3,053 3,367 638 DEBTORS 929 217 STOCK at cost 282 BANK BALANCES 23,550 Charities Deposit Fund 25,900 410 Current Account 430 75 Cash in Hand

24,035 26,330

27,943 30,908 Less: LIABILITIES 298 Subscriptions received in advance 271

£27,645 NET ASSETS £30,637 ACCUMULATED FUNDS 24,725 Balance at 31st December, 1989 27,645 2,945 Add: Excess of Income over Expenditure for year 3,018

27,670 30,663 (25) Decrease in market value of war loan (26)

£27,645 £30,637 NOTE: The Society also owns land at Trethias Island and Walmsley Sanctuary in addition to the assets shown in this Balance Sheet..

REPORT OF THE AUDITORS TO CORNWALL B1RDWATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY

We have audited the above Balance Sheet and attached Income and Expenditure Account in accordance with approved auditing standards. In our opinion, the above Balance Sheet and attached Income and Expenditure Account give a true and fair view of the state of the Society's affairs at 31st December 1990, and of its surplus Income over Expenditure for the year then ended. Dated: 13 March 1991 Whitaker, Redfearn, Pappin & Co. Newquay Accountants

5 CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 1991 It is pleasing to report that the Society in its 60th year, is in a most healthy state. The Treasurer, Alan Reynolds reports that our financial position is most satisfactory, and that membership increasing steadily, is currently at over 900. Subscriptions have not increased for ten years, but he warned that if the proposed expenditure planned for the coming year takes place, the income over expenditure may be adverse, and an increase in subscriptions may be necessary. The fact that we have no paid officials, and that an enormous amount of work is done by members and officials on a voluntary basis, has been the life blood of the Society for so long. I sincerely hope this situation continues in the future, and we make steady progress.

Briefly, looking back to the past in our Diamond Jubilee year, the inaugural meeting took place at the Museum in Truro on 17th January 1931. The president was Nancy, Lady Vyvyan of Trelowarren, and Col. Ryves was secretary. Although much of the early meetings was concerned with overhauling, and clarifying the rules, it is of note that the third item on the agenda dealt with 'plans for the preservation of the chough, and of rare birds in general'. The Society was ahead of its time in the matter of preservation, as early as 1933, the Committee discussed 'oil pollution of the sea'. Subsequently, letters were written to the Board of Trade, and other bodies, on the subject of 'the emission of oil from motor vessels'. At that time most of the movement around the coast, and ocean, was by coal burning vessles. I mentioned in my report last year, the fact that committee meetings were not signed until 1946, when meetings resumed. A great deal of work was carried out, and small disbursements were made from the Preservation Fund to preserve habitats, and to prevent illegal activities which were detrimental to bird life.

It is sad to report the death of Rennie Bere, renowned naturalist, and long standing member of the Society. A full obituary appeared in the 'Daily Telegraph' outlining his work. In his book, 'Wildlife in Cornwall' he mentions the Reports of The Cornwall Bird-Watching and Preservation Society 'which serves so well the cause of conserving the County's superlative avifauna' Rennie was a most interesting man, and it was a pleasure to be in his company on-a field trip, his knowledge was extensive, and he was always ready to pass on his wisdom, and knowledge to all.

During the year the committee was concerned about the state of the Walmsley Sanctuary, which, although improved since South West Water carried out work for us a few years ago, was still in need of further improvement. A sub-committee was formed, and approaches made to various bodies, regarding the possibility of obtaining grants. The National River Authority was interested, and in due course they agreed to undertake the work, at no cost to the Society, as a conservation project. When complete, this should help to retain water on the reserve, and improve the area. The total cost to the NRA is approximately £5,000. A full account of this matter appears in the Conservation Officers report.

The Nova Scotia Bird Society sought a twining arrangement with us, and after their approach, a formal letter was sent by our President Sir Alan Dalton agreeing. A long delay in reply, brought a further letter, stating that they did not wish to proceed. This was disappointing, because work had been done by various committee members. It is possible that contact may continue on an 'ad hoc' basis. On a more positive note, Restormel Council asked if we wished to be involved with the twinning with Dithmarschen in Germany. I attended the twinning ceremony in March, and we hope we may have the pleasure of meeting with German ornithologists. 6 It is disappointing to report that the hide on the Camel at Tregunna was so badly vandalised, that it was necessary to dismantle it to avoid danger to the public. The North Cornwall Council have provided another hide on the site which is open to the public,and is of very strong construction. Dave Thomas, and Dave Lewis were both involved in the work as were other members, and their help is greatly appreciated. The Society will be building another hide at Tregonce Cliff nearer to Padstow, which will be for the sole use of members by means of a key.

A Christmas Wildlife Quiz took place between two teams, one from the Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation and one from the Society. The questions covered all subjects of wildlife of which birds were only one aspect. The questions were set by Roseanne Sparshott, who also acted as quiz mistress. I am pleased to report that we were close winners in a most interesting contest, and it indicates that most good birders are also good naturalists.

During the year we gave £200 towards the cost of a new hide on St Mary's, Isles of Scilly, and also £250 towards the cost of updating the software used by our recorder to prepare the large amount of data for the Isles of Scilly bird report. We also gave £200 to the CTNC towards the cost of audio visual equipment, which they allow us to use at meetings.

Much of the work of the Society in relation to conservation will appear in detail in the Conservation Officers Report, these include the use of monofilament nets, protection of nesting peregrines from climbers, nuisance from microlight aircraft at Davidstow etc.

After several years as Vice Chairman, Roy Phillips has resigned. He has given great service to the Society for many years, and I am sure he will continue to do so for many to come. His contribution is immense, and covers all aspects of our work. We all enjoy his company, and have had the benefit of his wisdom for a long time. His place has been taken by Richard Hooton, who is well known, and I am sure he will prove to be a worthy Vice Chairman. Mike Rogers, Joint Secretary, Recorder and Editor for the Isles of Scilly, has resigned, and his place has been taken by Mr Peter Robinson. Over the years Mike has done a lot work on the Scillies, and is well known as a member of the British Birds rarities committee, and we thank him for his work.

Finally, I would like to thank the Committee for their hard work, and to members who have assisted us in many ways. Many hours have been given freely, and many miles travelled on behalf of the C.B.W.P.S. May we continue to prosper in the years to come.

Leslie Smith Chairman. CONSERVATION OFFICER'S REPORT

This report covers the period from April 1990 to April 1991. Although such reports have not previously appeared in 'Birds in Cornwall', I think that those members who did not attend the A.G.M. will be interested to learn what has been achieved by the Society in terms of conservation of species and habitats.

The last few weeks have seen the culmination of the most satisfying achievement since I have been in office, namely the conversion of the Walmsley Sanctuary from a sad shadow of its former days of glory into a viable wetland nature reserve once more, albeit comprising a rather different habitat type to the original. Having commissioned an expert drainage report from A.D.A.S., it became apparent that the creation of a freshwater marsh on this drying-up saltmarsh relict was perfectly feasible, although expensive. A suitable period of courtship with South West Water and then the National Rivers Authority finally bore fruit when the latter agreed to give us the use of a brand new digger and two workmen. Under the unerring supervision of warden Bruce Wotton, a retaining bank was constructed along the western edge and part way along that to the north of the wet area of the land in the Society's ownership. This linked in with the bank created along the southern flank a few years ago, to form a structure capable of retaining water inside. With the sluices installed, the potential water level is about fifteen inches higher than of recent years.

The resulting increase in standing water in winter should increase the attractiveness of the reserve to wildfowl. Furthermore, careful creation of a 'scrape' inside the western bank, with a gently shelving margin, looks excellent for waders. Indeed the early Spring has already produced Greenshank, Dunlin and several Green Sandpipers, as well as an Iceland Gull and Water Pipit. Our great hope is for plenty of mud to greet the Autumn wader passage.

Further work at the reserve includes the planting of about 250 trees, partly as a screen and partly to create new habitats, and the planned installation of a viewing hide, if planning permission is granted. Access to the hide will be along the public footpath leading from the road to the north-west corner of the reserve. (*see below)

Special thanks are due to Alma Hathway and Bruce Wotton for their general over-seeing of the construction work, for planting all the trees, for fencing and for caring deeply about this project. I an also grateful to Mike Lawson and the other warden, Francis Couch, for chivvying the authorities and attending meetings to help plan the work. Thanks are also due, of course, to the N.R.A. for doing the work for us.

* The development of the reserve will be governed by a management plan which is to be approved by the Nature Conservancy Council.

In contrast to the constructiveness of being able to create habitats for birds, I have now to report on the most depressing situation regarding the continual slaughter of seabirds in synthetic gill nets. This is a problem which has been worrying conservationists around the world. In the local context, the drowning of diving birds, mostly Guillemots and Razorbills but also the scarcer divers and grebes, has been witnessed in St Ives Bay over several winters. In certain weather conditions

8 during the winter, large numbers of auks move into coastal bays for food and shelter. Here, they are at the mercy of miles of invisible netting when they dive for food. Incidents have been witnessed in which hundreds of these birds have been drowned, unable to free themselves from the mesh. Fishermen have been observed stuffing the corpses into large plastic bags, which are then weighted and dropped overboard. Bags full of dead birds have been found on beaches, with post mortems confirming drowning as the cause of death of otherwise healthy birds.

One has no wish to deprive fishermen of their livelihood, but, as I suggested to the Fisheries Minister, gone are the days when commercial activities were allowed to flourish without consideration for their effect on the natural environment. The official response was that 'sad though they are, these deaths are not, however, a significant threat to the survival of the species'. How do they know, when no-one knows how many birds are affected? And, in any event, is survival of the species the only criterion? What about the suffering? I hope that the Minister's assurance, that fishermen in the bay are considering ways by which the threat can be reduced, will be backed by suitable measures if the problem is not resolved voluntarily. In the meantime, the Society is supporting the R.S.P.B. in its campaign to force legislation to protect the world's seabirds and mammals from lethal fishing nets.

In brief, other matters dealt with include objections to planning applications in respect of the flying of microlights at Davidstow, where large numbers of wintering birds are disturbed; residential development in Nanquindo Valley may have involved the destruction of important habitat for migrants, and paint-ball war games at Stennack Wood, near Camborne. This latter site has been purchased now by Society members J.E. & J.P. Millet, who are very kindly allowing members free access to walk through the wood. It is situated east of Treslothan Church and west of Troon.

Representations have been sent to Carrick District Council concerning the proposed 'Truro River Park' and its likely effect on the birds of the estuary there, so that due account can be taken of the Society's views in the formulation of Truro Local Plan. All local councils in the county were also approached and advised of our misgivings about the use of tethered birds in street displays.

The Society's reservoir reserves have been maintained during the year. The very dry summers have rendered the scrape at Stithians useless so far, but working parties have been busy cutting back scrub encroachment, fencing and creosoting the hides. Thanks are due to Stewart and Kate Hutchings, Jonathan Jane, the aforementioned Milletts, Gilbert Thomas and David Leek. Dave Conway has successfully organised important grazing agreements at Loveny Reserve, Colliford, which we run jointly with C.T.N.C. No work has been required at Drift, but the hide has been put to good use.

At the suggestion of the R.S.P.B., the Camel Estuary Advisory Panel was set up to represent conservation interests and advise the Padstow Harbour Commissioners accordingly. Our Secretary, Mike Lawson, acts as secretary to the Panel.

There has been some concern recently about human predation of Peregrine nests in the South-west and I would urge all members with knowledge of regular breeding sites to keep a careful watch on their birds. Seabird colonies in the west of the county have been given some degree of protection from disturbance by rock- climbers, by the positioning of warning notices on cliff-tops. We are grateful to the National Trust for their co-operation in this respect.

We were please to assist the British branch of the Italian League for Bird Protection, LIPU (UK), by distributing their leaflets to our members. This organisation is desperately trying to arrange some protection for migrating birds throughout Italy, where shooters and trappers take a massive toll of all species, most of which are en route for countries further north or south. In Calabria on the 9th and 10th May 1990, more than 1500 Ospreys, Honey Buzzards, Black Kites, falcons and harriers were shot! LIPU certainly deserve our support.

Finally, I would remind all members that they are the eyes and ears of the Society. If you hear of a local problem concerning birds, such as an adverse planning application or habitat destruction for example, please let me know.

Andy Pay Conservation Officer

10 EDITORIAL and REVIEW of the YEAR

277 species and at least 13 distinctive sub-species or races were reported during the year and found to be acceptable.

362 observers submitted records for consideration.

Pechora Pipit, Sardinian Warbler, Yellow - throated Vireo and Rustic Bunting were all added to the country mainland list, whilst a large pipit tentatively, then confidently identified as a Blyth's pipit and a male Lazuli Bunting are also potential 'firsts', but will face stern appraisal by BBRC and BOURC before acceptance is complete.

Reports of several other extreme rarities, notably Little Shearwater (two), Black Stork, Spotted Sandpiper, 'Kumliens' Gull and Alpine Accentor have been notified to BBRC but no decision has yet been received.

Other highlights included record numbers of Merlin, large parties of Turnstone in the first winter period, a mini-influx of Night Heron in March, huge falls of Northern Wheatear and Willow Warbler in late April, a sizable irruption of Crossbill, a record passage of Siskin in autumn and a near full-house of British pipits during October.

Conversely the populations of Grey Partridge, Little Owl, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Corn Bunting gave cause for concern and the number of Knot visiting the county has declined quite dramatically.

The most notable birds overwintering from 1989 included nine widely scattered Little Egret, single Spoonbill and Ring-necked Duck, two Red Kite and single Marsh Harrier, Swallow, Yellow - browed Warbler and Rose-coloured Starling.

Wildfowl numbers were exceptionally low and winter thrush flocks negligible.

Although it was generally unsettled with successive gales sweeping across the county, the mild weather experienced at the end of 1989 continued well into January.

Early in the month a Grey Phalarope was observed off Mevagissy, an obliging Waxwing performed to all and sundry at Bodmin and a second Yellow - browed Warbler was found; at St. Austell.

The first of c.90 Mediterranean Gulls and c.27 new Ring-billed Gulls, for the year, were identified.

Meanwhile, watchers at the Tregonetha Hen Harrier roost were surprised when the anticipated Short-eared Owl materialised into a Long-Eared Owl.

The regular gales brought in the first of c.55 Great Skuas noted during January and Feburary and the first of up to six Bonaparte's Gulls. A House Martin at Mullion on 17th was not totally unexpected, but still constituted only the second mid-winter record ever.

As the month progressed, the gales became storms, and by 25th, the county experienced one of the most violent weather systems in history with winds of hurricane force causing loss of life, widespread structural damage and the loss of thousands of trees.

11 Seabirds were battered close inshore, particularly off the South coast where the most notable sightings included a Sooty Shearwater, 4300 Gannet, a huge raft of 480 Shag, a Grey Phalarope and a Little Auk.

Elsewhere there was a Marsh Harrier at Gunwalloe, a roost of 130 Magpie at Treesmill and two Bewick's Swan at Maer Lake.

There was little change in the weather throughout Feburary as one storm after another battered the county, almost relentlessly. Temperatures remained above the norm but rainfall was sparse.

There was little movement on the avian front until late in the month.

Highlights of the first three weeks included single Little Auk and Grey Phalarope, two Snow Bunting and a drake Green-winged Teal. The Tamar Est. Avocet flock had increased to a new record of 194.

Hurricane force winds returned late in the month resulting in heavy seabird passage again. The more pronounced movement was noted off the north coast. 2236 Northern Fulmar moved west in one hour off Towan Head and 25780 Gannet were counted off Cape Cornwall. Two unseasonal Balearic Shearwaters, three Little Auks and small numbers of Great Skuas and other pelagic species were all wrecked by the inclement conditions.

A report of a male Sardinian Warbler at Porth Joke at the end of the month has sadly not yet been submitted and owing to its extreme rarity in the U.K. it seemed likely that the species would not be added to the Cornish list, but amazingly, less than two weeks later its status was to be confirmed (and by the end of the year there had been no less than six reports!).

March weather continued to be exceptionally mild with south to south - westerly airstreams predominating. It was another dry month and not only were many species induced to breed earlier than normal but the month was abnormally productive for unusual sightings.

New earliest arrival dates were set by Willow Warbler (5th) and Sedge Warbler (31st) whilst other harbinger of spring included House Martin (6th), Sand Martin (7th), Garganey, Wheatear and Ring Ouzel (11th), Swallow (15th), Yellow Wagtail (24th), Redstart (26th) and Turtle Dove (28th).

Of these species, Sand Martin arrived in good numbers and Garganey enjoyed its most pronounced arrival since 1973.

As previously noted, another Sardinian Warbler, a male in the unlikely setting of Stratton, was located on 8th.

Fortunately it remained for several days providing excellent views, despite the unnecessary and unwarranted behaviour of some twitchers who found it necessary to trek uninvited across residents' gardens.

Sensibly, the finder of another Sardinian Warbler, at The Lizard on 18th behaved more discretely and did not alert the moronic minority.

Elsewhere two Long - eared Owls were flushed from a disused Magpie nest near Perranporth, raising hopes of a breeding attempt, but sadly they were ousted by the Magpies.

The first Hoopoe arrived on 17th and the first of six Night Herons were observed at Copperhouse and Loe Pool on 20th. At the end of the month a Subalpine Warbler appeared at Caerthillian for the third year in succession and an early Purple Heron was at Gunwalloe. 12 Sadly the Red Kite at Siblyback departed mid - month after a sojourn of more than eighteen months.

After three exceedingly mild months spring was definitely in the air, but as so often happens, along came April 1 to spoil the party. Most of the month was dominated by a cold northerly airstream, but towards the end of the month an anticyclone started to build to the north west introducing much warmer weather.

Predictably, spring arrivals were reduced to a trickle during the first three weeks but there were still a few surprises.

Of particular interest were a Marsh Harrier, two Kentish Plovers (including the first of four at Loe Pool), Reed Warbler (4th), Woodlark (5th), Whimbrel (7th), Cuckoo (8th), two Red-rumped Swallows, Woodchat Shrike, Grasshopper Warbler (11th), Tree Pipit (13th), Whinchat (19th) and two Serins.

The change of weather at the end of the third week introduced a new dimension to the birdwatching scene.

The 21st produced a fine summer plumaged White-winged Black Tern at Tamar Est. and a Red Kite at St Buryan.

The following day a huge fall of birds occurred including 1000 Whimbrel at Mounts Bay, 16 Redstart at Rame Head and 700 Willow Warblers in the same area. These birds moved rapidly northwards and apart from a Goshawk and five Crossbills at Halvana and a Tree Sparrow at Porthgwarra on 23rd there was another lull until 28th when Corncrake, Swift and Lesser Whitethroat were all reported from Rame Head.

The succeeding two days induced another incursion of species which had been impeded by the poor recent weather. Marsh Harrier, Montagu's Harrier, three Dotterel, Arctic and Little Terns, Alpine Swift at The Lizard, two Wryneck, a Richard's Pipit, Blue and Ashy-headed Wagtails and a fall of 581 Northern Wheatear, including 289 at Trevose Head, were all reported.

This purple patch continued into the first week of May, a month which was to prove hot and dry with rapidly depleting water reserves.

Spotted Flycatcher arrived on 1st, together with another Wryneck and another Tree Sparrow. A Purple Heron was found at Retallack and a Bonaparte's Gull was identified at St Johns Lake and was to stay in the area throughout the year.

The 5th produced a diverse selection which included the first of five spring Ospreys, two Black Terns, a very late Waxwing, a tardy Fieldfare and a pair of Serins which held territory at Daymer Bay for several days.

A Marsh Harrier at Colliford and three Dotterel and a Short-toed Lark at Predannack all arrived on 6th preceding by one day the biggest surprise of the spring - a superb Laughing Gull at Polperro which then moved on to Mounts Bay.

The provenance of a Ruddy Shelduck at Skewjack will no doubt be the subject of much speculation but there are no such difficulties with a Nightjar on 12th and a Red-throated Pipit at Marazion on 14th.

Ten Golden Orioles were to be reported before the end of the month the first being at Cot on 16th. Other notable migrants included Honey Buzzard, Montagu's Harrier and Red-footed Falcon the last a female at Croft Pascoe for the third successive year.

Single Nightingale at Skewjack and Red-backed Shrike at Wadebridge stopped

13 only briefly, but a male Serin at Madron was to remain until July. (When will the species breed in Cornwall?).

After the 1989 Quail invasion it was hoped that good numbers would return this year but one at Sticker on 23rd was to be the first of only ten.

Spring migration was effectively complete by the end of the month and bird movement was very restricted throughout June.

The first half of the month was cooler than May but remaining dry. A Pectoral Sandpiper at Hayle Est. on 9th was probably a transatlantic vagrant from 1989 which had wintered in Africa and was now making its northward spring migration. Not so the Greenshank (10th), Redshank (11th) and Green Sandpiper (17th) which were the first returning waders of the autumn.

Also evident on 10th was a Crossbill at Croft Pascoe which was to prove the first of a record irruption culminating in a flock of 60 at Drift in July - the largest single party ever noted in Cornwall.

The latter half of June was blessed with more unsettled weather which brought some much-needed rain to the parched landscape. Gale force winds on 24th forced good numbers of seabirds close inshore off the south coast the most notable of which were 270 Storm Petrels off Mevagissey.

On the breeding front there were the customary successes for Great Crested Grebe, Cetti's Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Pied Flycatcher and Siskin.

Hobby may have bred and a pair of Dartford Warblers were successful at a new site.

Conversely, Guillemot, Razorbill and Puffin were poorly documented and Cirl Buntings continue to disappear.

Of the more familiar species, Stonechat fared well, but many of the tit species, particularly Blue and Great Tit apparently achieved only limited breeding success. This may have been due to the fine early spring weather inducing birds to breed earlier than normal, resulting in earlier hatching dates failing to coincide with the availability of the preferred food source.

The unsettled westerly airstream continued into July but as high pressure started to build there was a return to soaring temperatures and negligible precipitation.

Apart from a few seabirds early in the month which included a high count of 480 Storm Petrels off St Ives and a Long-tailed Skua off Rame Head, few notable reports were received for the first three weeks of the month.

Later, a mixed bag of waders arrived including Golden Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Little Stint, Ruff and Wood Sandpiper. An Osprey, the first of twelve in autumn was noted and there was a heavy passage of large shearwaters which peaked with 1172 Cory's Shearwaters off Porthgwarra on 28th.

The fine weather continued virtually uninterupted throughout August resulting in little noticeable bird movement.

The first Aquatic Warblers of the autumn were identified at Gunwalloe and Marazion Marsh and a Corncrake was found at Skewjack.

A few Cory's and Great Shearwaters continued to pass and a Wilson's Phalarope arrived at Loe Pool on 18th then moved across to Hayle Est. for several days.

14 An excellent count of 578 Redshank was made at Tamar Est. and the first of seven autumn Pectoral Sandpipers was reported. Swallow roosts attracted huge flocks of birds. At Par the peak estimate was 10000 birds on 24th, whilst the Marazion roost held 3000 early in September.

Having experienced almost two months of heat and glorious sunshine, September proved to be something of a contrast with a southwesterly airstream prevailing and bringing many days of gales and rain.

Despite this, sea-watching was generally disappointing with no appreciable passage apart from 5th/6th when 103 Sooty Shearwaters passed St Ives on the first date and eleven Leach's Petrels passed Pendeen on the latter date.

Other highlights included single Red-backed Shrike, Melodious Warbler, Ortolan Bunting and Tawny Pipit whilst two White Storks which toured the Lizard district had unfortunately escaped from Whipsnade Zoo.

Whether or not the male Lazuli Bunting at Murrayton in mid-month was an escapee is the subject of considerable conjecture but there can be no such doubts about the origin of the Bonelli's Warbler, Richard's Pipit and Rose-coloured Starling which appeared at about the same time.

After this comparatively quiet start to September there was to be spectacular change from 20th to the end of the month.

Premier bird was the Yellow-throated Vireo which graced Kenidjack Valley for several days from 20th (providing perhaps some degree of credibility to the assumption that the Lazuli Bunting may have been a genuine transatlantic wanderer).

Nearby, a Red-eyed Vireo was found in Cot Valley on 21st. The following day a Spoonbill returned to Lynher Est. and the first Redwing and Yellow-browed Warbler of the autumn were sighted. Honey Buzzard, Dotterel and Long-billed Dowitcher were all logged on 24th and a Nightingale was found on 25th. Other notable arrivals before the end of the month included Long-eared Owl, Hoopoe, Icterine Warbler, the first of 14 Richard's Pipit and the first of c.95 Lapland Buntings.

The first week of October was unsettled with south to west winds dominating. Consequently, migrants from the Eurasian region were scarce. Sea-watching was interesting but not spectacular.

A Black Kite found at Buryas Bridge on 2nd was to remain in the Lands End area for several weeks attracting considerable attention from local and visiting birders alike. A Corncrake was flushed at Marazion on 2nd and a total of 1071 Siskin was noted on 6th (a day total bettered by only three previous year totals!).

Notable seabirds included a Great Shearwater and a Long-tailed Skua off Pendeen, Little Auk off Pentewan and a Forster's Tern at Par.

More settled weather arrived for the second and third weeks of the month, with the eagerly awaited and anticipated easterly winds arriving during the third week.

New birds were reported almost daily with a fantastic incursion of many species from 20th to 22nd.

A Scarlet Rosefinch, eagerly sought by many local birders, failed to stay more than one day and the only Nearctic waders of the month, single Lesser Yellowlegs and Long-billed Dowitcher were both 'fly-overs'.

Other rare passerines included an approachable Rustic Bunting at Lands End, two 15 Hawfinch, another Red-breasted Flycatcher, a male Sardinian Warbler at Cot Valley, a male 'Siberian' Stonechat at Kenidjack, two or three Short-toed Larks and a flock of 250 House Sparrows.

Later there was an unique collection of pipits in the far west of the county. Richard's and Tawny Pipit barely rate a second glance from twitchers these days but Red-throated remains a sought-after rarity, if only to gain familiarity with its calls. A Pechora Pipit at Lands End on 20th/21st and a large pipit at Skewjack, eventually identified as a Blyth's were outstanding rarities. The Pechora unfortunately performed only for a limited number of observers but the Blyth's remained faithful to its chosen field for several days allowing close examination and enabling field identification criteria of this notoriously difficult species to be utilised with great success. One can only speculate on the non-appearance of Olive-backed Pipit, which would have completed the pipit bonanza (particularly in view of the record influx of the species into the U.K. this autumn).

Other rarities included three Bewick's Swan, the first of 25 Whooper Swan, an American Golden Plover, a Long-eared Owl, yet another Sardinian Warbler, another Bonelli's Warbler, three Serins and an additional Hawfinch.

November proved to be another generally unsettled month with frequently changing weather. It was considerably colder with northerly biased winds on many days.

After the majority of the late October birds had moved out there was a lull until the first weekend in November. Treen had dominated the rarity scene late in October but Porthgwarra returned to the limelight on 3rd with Long-eared Owl, Richard's Pipit, Sardinian Warbler and Barred Warbler all reported.

The following day attention switched to the north of the county where an Alpine Accentor was reported, appropriately from the summit of Rough Tor and a Dartford Warbler frequented a kale field at Pentire.

Other notable occurrences included five White-fronted Geese, single Red Kite and Goshawk, two more Long-eared Owls and two Bearded Tits.

Autumn migration effectively ceased by 10th and wildfowl started to arrive in increasing numbers. By the end of the month there was a sprinkling of Red-necked Grebes, several reports of Whooper Swan, another five Bewick's Swans, a day total of 240 Common Scoter and our first Smew for two years.

Apart from the weekend of 8th/9th when snow fell, December weather continued in the pattern of recent years mild, wet and windy with a particularly stormy last week of the year.

The first 26 days of the month were quiet for birds, but highlights included up to seven Jack Snipe at Copperhouse, another Long-eared Owl, three Woodlark, two Great Grey Shrikes and a very late Curlew Sandpiper. The storms at the end of the year produced many unseasonal records of pelagic species, notably two Balearic Shearwater and a Pomarine Skua plus many Little Auks. A single Glaucous and three Iceland Gulls also arrived.

Overwintering birds included ten Little Egrets, the customary Spoonbill, two Ring-necked Duck and record numbers of Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Firecrest.

Thanks To everyone who submitted records for inclusion in this Report.

To John Cook for his tireless work in extracting records for the section Red- legged Partridge to House Martin.

16 To Dave Flumm for the NWC and BOEE counts.

To Steve Madge for information from the C.F.N.H.C. file.

To Peter Walsh and Renfred Hathway for photgraphs.

To Steve Bird, Ken Evans, Ashley Fisher, Derek Lord, James McCallum and John Waters for drawings.

To Greg Conway and Roger Lane for articles.

To Dave Flumm, Ted Griffiths, Steve Madge, Andy Pay, John Ryan, Roger Smaldon and Victor Tucker for advice and decisions on county rarities'and contentious records.

WILDFOWL & WADER COUNTS 1990

These counts were again organised by Dave Flumm, but commencing 1st January 1991, the new organiser will be Jack Wright, Carthew House, Higher Kenneggy, Rosudgeon, Penzance.

Counts were received for all of the important sites with the exception of the Fowey Estuary and the Gannel Estuary. If anyone feels that they can assist at either of these sites please contact Jack Wright.

It will become apparent that whilst comparing the figures in the tables with maximum counts under the main species account that there is frequently a considerable anomaly. This is a problem which seems insurmountable in that the NWC and BOEE surveys are conducted on just one set day per month and that may not necessarily coincide with the 'best' day for the species at that particular locality. Nevertheless the counts provide an extremely valuable source of regular data for a number of important sites.

RARITIES National rarities Reports of national rarities must be accompanied by a full description, preferably notes made in the field. Sketches and photographs can be of great assistance but are not normally returnable. These descriptions should be submitted to the Recorder as soon as possible after the occurrence, and should, wherever possible, be submitted on the appropriate form obtainable from the Recorder or from the Secretary to B.B.R.C., M. J. Rogers, Bag End, Churchtown, Towednack, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 3AZ.

County rarities Owing to the sheer welter of work undertaken by B.B.R.C., the species considered by them is constantly under review. From time to time certain species establish a regular and frequent pattern of occurrence in the U.K. At such times species may be removed from the list of National Rarities whereupon they are automatically installed into the framework of the list of County Rarities.

The latter list is also constantly under review and changes are regularly made.

From 31st December 1990 the list of County Rarities has been expanded to include five species (Little Egret, Surf Scoter, Bee-Eater, Pallas's Warbler and Woodhcat Shrike) which have been removed from th B.B.R.C. list during 1990.

In addition, in an attempt to alleviate some of the paperwork encountered by

17 conscientious observers, the amount of detail required for a number of county rarities has been re-appraised.

County rarities requiring a full description are marked with an asterisk, those requiring fewer notes, but still sufficient to justify the identification, remain unmarked.

Red-necked Grebe Sabine's Gull Black-necked Grebe * Ring-billed Gull Leach's Petrel Iceland Gull Cory's Shearwater * Glaucous Gull Great Shearwater * Roseate Tern Bittern Arctic Tern Little Egret * Black Guillemot Purple Heron * Ring-necked Parakeet White Stork * Long-eared Owl Bean Goose * Bee-eater * Pink-fronted Goose Woodlark Greylag Goose Shore Lark * Snow Goose * Richard's Pipit * Ruddy Shelduck * Tawny Pipit * Garganey Water Pipit Red-crested Pochard Yellow Wagtail (variants). Ferruginous Duck * Waxwing Scaup Nightingale * Surf Scoter * Bluethroat * Velvet Scoter Cetti's Warbler Smew Savi's Warbler * Ruddy Duck * Aquatic Warbler * Honey Buzzard * Marsh Warbler * Red Kite * Icterine Warbler * Marsh Harrier * Melodious Warbler * Montagu's Harrier * Barred Warbler * Goshawk * Pallas's Warbler * Rough-legged Buzzard * Yellow-browed Warbler Osprey Red-breasted Flycatcher * Hobby Bearded Tit Spotted Crake Willow Tit * Corncrake * Golden Oriole Crane * Red-backed Shrike Stone Curlew Great Grey Shrike Little Ringed Plover Woodchat Shrike * Kentish Plover Chough Dotterel Tree Sparrow Temminck's Stint * Serin * Pectoral Sandpiper * Twite * Buf-breasted Sandpiper * Scarlet (Common) Rosefinch Red-necked Phalarope * Hawfinch Pomarine Skua Lapland Bunting Long-tailed Skua * Ortolan Bunting * Mediterranean Gull Cirl Bunting

Additionally, the Recorder may at any time request full details of an unusual occurrence.

Records of the above species which are not accompanied by adequate detail will not be included in 'Birds in Cornwall'.

18 SUBMISSION OF RECORDS

Records should follow the order shown in this Report; not in alphabetical order or diary form. Adherence to this basic guideline will greatly facilitate the extraction of information from observers' notes.

Records for 1991 should be sent to the Recorder by 15th January 1992 at the latest. However to assist with the early publication of the Report I would be pleased to receive the bulk of records at any time during the current year.

Finally, I appologise for any errors or ommissions which are attributable to me. I welcome any constructive criticism or any idea which might improve the Report.

19 Contributors

Ahmad, M.K. Conway, G.J. Griffiths, E. Akers, P.G. Cook, E.J. Griffiths, G. Aley, P.H. Couch, F.M. Groombridge, G.(GGro) Allen, Mrs B. Coulson, P. Gruitt, G.(GGru) Ansell, W.F.H. Courtnell, D.R. Gynn, G.G. & Mrs E.G. Appleby, C. Cox, S. Hagley, N. Astins, D.J. Cox, S.J. Hall, M.C. Aston, A.E.C. Craven, B.T. Hambridge, K. Backshall, Mrs D.I.P. Crosby, M.J. Hammon, V. Bailey, M.R.A. Danson, R.E. Hanby, Dr A.M., Bailey, S.A. Dare, E.W.S. Mrs M.C. & S.J. Balmer, Miss D.E. Davey, A.M.J. Hanham, Mrs M. Bank, G.&B. Davison, A.(AD) Hannaford, B. Barker, D.J.& Mrs D.C. Day, G. Harper, R. Bate, M.E. Dickson, Mrs B. Harris, A. Bawden, P. Dingle, R. Harrop, A.H.J. Bayley, M.J. Dinsdale, J. Harrop, H.R. Beer, M. Dixon, A. Harvey, C. Berry, I. Dobinson, F.A. Hastings, R.B. Betchley, N. Duley, P. Hathway, Mrs A.C. Bilcock, D. Dunstan, R. & Mrs Hathway, R.J. Bingham, C.L.(CLB) A.(RDu.ADu.) Hawkey, J. Birch, A.R. Dwyer, P.J. & Mrs M. Hay, M.J.W. Birch, M.P. Eastgate, M.A. Hendy, CP. Blatchford, M.(MB) Edgar, A. Herdson, D. Blowers, B.D. Edmonds, P & Miss M. Higson, P. Boon, J.A. Elkington, Mrs H. Hillmer, J.C. Boothroyd, B.& Mrs A. Elliott, P. Hobbs, M. Bourne, C.L. Ellis, B. Hobson, Mrs Brown, D. Etheridge, C. Hollingsworth, R.(RHo) Bryden, J.D. Eva, D. Holmes, J.S. Bury, S. Evans, K. Honeychurch, F.H. Butts, R. Exelby, N.B. Hooper, S. Cabbie, N.J. Eyre, C. Hooton, R.J. Campling, S. Field, B.R. Hopkins, J.R. Carne, Mrs E. Fisher, E.A. Hosking, W.H. Carne, T.M. Flanagan, E. Hutchins, J.V.P. Cave, B.(BC) Flumm, D.S. Innes, R. Chell, D.R. Folland, D. Ironside, N. & Mrs B. Chivers C.& Mrs S. Forbes, B.F. Jackson, D. Chown, D.J. Ford, R.A. Jackson, G.C. Christmas, S.G. Ford, R.W. Jackson, S.F. Christophers, B.T.S. Ford, S. James, G.F. Christophers, E.M. Fox, Miss M. James, J.W. Christophers, S.M., Frankham, H. & Mrs M. James, M.D. Mrs A.D. & Miss H.M. Fry, T. & Mrs M. James, R.M.R. Chugg, B. Gammage, Miss M. Jane, J.A. Churchill, D. & S. Gammage, P.A. Jayne, A. Clatworthy, J.M. George, Mrs A. Jelbert, C. Clifton, J. Gordon, M. & M. Jenkins, D.(DJe) Clegg, D. Gould, R.W. Jenkins, J. Coghlan, Miss S.(SCo) Grace, E.(EGe) Jenkins, Miss L. Colemont, S. Grace, Ms N.L. Jerram, Miss R.M. Collinge, D.T. Grant, I. Johnson, D.L. Collings, M. Green, M. Jones, Miss M.J. Colliver, N.A. Greenstreet, P. Jones, R.A. Conway, D.A. & Mrs Gregory, P.(PG) Joyce, N. I.M.E. 20 Julian, D.I. Phillips, N.R. Tremewan, Mr & Mrs P. Kendall, F.H.C. Phillips, Miss R.M. Truscott, L.A.C. Kendall, I. Pilbeam, S. Tucker, V.R. Kenefick, M.R. Pink, S.A.M. Tyzzer, J.G. Knights, Dr & Mrs R. Polglase, T.R. Vaughan, H. Lane, R. Pollard, E. Visick, Mrs M.P. Langdon,A. Pomeroy, M. Wake, R.E. Large, S. Potts, P.M. Walker, E. Last, W.G. Powell, D & Mrs R. Walker, M. Lawson, M. Powell, L.S. & Walsh, P. Lee, R.J. Mrs E.M. Walters, J.M. Le Gassick, J.C. Poynton, Mr & Mrs R.H. Warman, S. Legg, J. Randall, J.M. Wasse, J. Legge, W.G.D. Redington, Mrs A.N. Webb, L. Lewis, D. Reay, P.J. Whillock, N. Lewis, G.D. Rees, B. White, G.R. & Mrs M. Lister, S.M. Reynolds, A.F. White, I. Lobb, R.J. Rigby, D.J. White, R. Lord, D. Ringrose, G. White, R.W. Love, D.M. & Robinson, Miss B.J. White, W.J. Mrs L.F.C. Rogers, M.J. Whitehouse, A.J. Lowe, R.J. & B.G. Rosier, A.B. Wickens, T. Luxton, P.W. Rowe, S.G. Wicks, S.C. McCall, I. Rundle, B.G. Wightman, M. McCallum, J.R. Rundle, P. Wilkins, R. Madge, S.C. & Russell, M. Wilkinson, D. Mrs P.S. Rutter, P.A. Williams, C. Maker, P.A. Ryan, Dr J.F. Williams, E. Marris, Mrs M. Sabran, G.R.G. Williams, E.H. Mason, R. St Pierre, P.A. Williams, G. Massey, D. Sari, L.A.H. Williams, L.P. Mather, R.J. Sawle, A.C. Williams, P. Mawby, S.R. Semmens, M.P. Wills, Mrs I. Maycock, K.W. Seymour, E. Wilson, E.J. Meininger, P.L. Shaw, W.R. Wilson, J.H.W. Mellow, B.K. Shepard, M. Wolfenden, W.A.R. Meredith, Miss H.M. Shillingford, J. Wonnacott, L. Miles, H. Short, B.J. Wotton, B.C. Mitchell, O. Sillifant, P.T. Wright, J.(JW) Mollison, J. Smaldon, R. Smith, D.F. Wright, N. Moody, M.P. Yelland, D.M. Morgan, N. Smith, D.I. Morrison, D.(DM) Smith, Dr F.H.N. Mumford, I. Smith, L.A. & Mrs F.M Noble, K. Snow, Mr Northcott, W.C. Southam, M. British Trust for Norton, J.A. Southwell, K. Ornithology. O'boy, Mrs J. Spalding, A. Caradon Field and Natural Odell, D. Springett, Mrs C. History Club. Osborne, C.A. Stafford, P.W. Cornwall Trust for Nature Overy, M. Stephenson, G.C. & D.J. Conservation. Parslow, J.L.F. Stevens, Miss L. Royal Air Force Stevenson, J. Ornithological Society. Pattenden, B. Stockhausen, J & Mrs R. Pay, A.R. & Mrs H.C. Royal Society for the Stratton, V.A. Protection of Birds. Peard, J. Stribley, J. Peck, J. Swensson, D. Pellow, K. Apologies for any Thomas, D.L. omissions. Penhallurick, R.D. THomas, G.H. Perry, A. Thorne, Mrs M. Peters, Mrs. Tonking, C.N. Phillips, N.J. 21 Species List for 1990 The following species are in the order shown in The British Birds List of Birds of the Western Palearctic'.

All species noted on the Cornish mainland during the year and found to be acceptable, are included in this report. Where a record has been accepted by British Birds Rarities Committee, (BBRC) this fact is stated.

Under the majority of species, sightings are listed in date order, i.e. localities with January records are placed first and those with December records are listed last. This avoids dividing the County into geographical or topographical regions which can cause considerable confusion when extracting data from reports. Please note the following definitions: (a) 'Porthgwarra' includes the area south of a line drawn from Cam Les Boel to St. Levan. (b) 'Mount's Bay' refers only to that part of the bay between Mousehole and Marazion. (c) 'Whitsand Bay' refers to the bay east of Looe and not the bay of a similar name at Sennen. (d) 'St Austell Bay' includes Par Bay. (e) 'Pentire Point' refers to the headland north of Polzeath, unless otherwise stated. (f) 'Porth Mear' — Porthcothan, and not the cove of a similar name near St. Ives.

References Penhallurick, R.D. 'Birds of the Cornish Coast', Truro 1969. Penhallurick, R.D. 'The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly', Penzance 1976. Rodd, E.H. 'The Birds of Cornwall', London 1880. Ryves, B.H. 'Bird Life in Cornwall', London 1948. Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Reports 1931 - 1989. Caradon Field and Natural History Club Report 1989.

RED-THROATED DIVER - Gavia stellata Uncommon winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although well distributed along the more sheltered south coast, recent observations have discovered sizeable concentrations along the north coast particularly between Perranporth and Port Isaac. Whilst these flocks are large for Cornwall they are much smaller than the parties of several hundreds reported almost annually off Hartland Point, North Devon.

Birds were noted at 30 localities during 1990, 18 on the south coast and 12 on the north coast Very few overwintered from 1989 and numbers remained low throughout January. In fact, apart from a few in the gales at the end of the month and a light spring passage from mid March to May 7th it was a largely uneventful start to the year. As usual, at this time of the year, the majority were reported from the north coast. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Austell Bay: two from 1989 to Jan 6th, singles Jan 24th and Feb 15th. St Ives/Carbis Bay: noted until Feb 7th with max of four Jan 31st. Rame Head: one Jan 7th, three Apr 14th, two May 7th - all west. Bude: one west Jan 7th, four Feb 16th with two to Feb 21st. Newquay: eight west between Jan 8th and Feb 12th. Seaton: noted sporadically Jan 11th to Apr 14th with a build up in March to a peak of ten on 16th. 22 Mounts Bay: noted until Mar 26th with max of four Jan 13th and Feb 18th. Trevose Head: five Jan 13th, 14 Feb 18th and 35 Mar 7th. Hells Mouth: noted Mar 5th to Apr 2nd with max of ten Mar 20th. St Agnes: eight Mar 21st. Porthgwarra: three west Apr 14th. Autumn passage commenced with one flying east at Porthgwarra Oct 2nd. It proved to be an exceptionally poor movement with only 13 in October and 12 in November. Very few were observed throughout December until the last week, when gales brought small numbers close inshore. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Austell Bay: noted from Oct 8th with a max of four Dec 18th. St Ives: two Oct 27th, four Oct 31st, five Dec 27th - all west. Newquay: six west between Oct 28th and end of year. Rumps Point: singles Nov 10th and Dec 2nd, 19 Dec 27th - all west.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER - Gavia arctica

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Predominantly a bird of the sheltered south coast with large concentrations regularly occurring in the Dodman Point to Carrick Roads area. Veryan/Gerrans Bay regularly attracts perhaps as much as 5% of the U.K. winter total. Reasonable numbers are also reported from St Austell Bay and occasionally Mounts and St Ives bays. Birds were noted at 27 localities during 1990, 17 on the south coast, nine on the north coast and one inland. Very little information was received for January and it is unclear whether or not the large flock off Falmouth in December 1989 remained there into 1990. Certainly there was very few in the traditional wintering areas further east, until late March. Last in spring was one at Looe which stayed until Jul 7th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Falmouth: 26 Feb 3rd, 11 Feb 21st. Gerrans: noted until Feb 18th with max of eight Jan 8th. Carrick Roads: one or two to Mar 24th but five Jan 11th. St Ives: a total of nine west including six Mar 25th. Veryan Bay: noted from Jan 28th (3) with a slow build up to nine Feb 12th and 14 Mar 15th. There was a more pronounced arrival late in March and the flock peaked at 45 Apr 18th. Mounts Bay: noted Feb 21st to May 7th with a max of nine Mar 9th. Mevagissey: 16 Apr 26th. Rame Head: a total of six flew west between Apr 27th and May 7th. Early autumn arrivals were singles off Gurnards Head Aug 22nd and in St Austell Bay Aug 26th, but there was then a lull until Oct 3rd. It was a poor movement with a mere nine in October and 14 in November Second winter flocks were the smallest for many years, with the majority identified at typical localities. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Austell Bay: singles regular from Aug 26th but two Oct 29th. Veryan Bay: noted Oct 18th to Dec 13th with max of 21 last date. Mounts Bay: one Dec 1st, six Dec 20th. Gerrans Bay: noted from Dec 3rd with max of 14 Dec 19th. There was no more than two at any other site. Inland there was a singleton at Stithians Res Feb 8th. BC.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER - Gavia immer Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although the most widespread of the divers in Cornwall, most birds tend to be solitary and rarely form anything other than small 'rafts', unlike the more gregarious Red and Black-throated divers. Recent observations have shown St

23 Austell Bay to be the most important site for the species in the county. Good numbers are regularly reported in Veryan, Gerrans, Mounts and St Ives bays.

Birds were reported from 36 localities during 1990, 25 on the south coast and eleven on the north coast. Many reports were received for January and there was a small influx in mid February but birds gradually drifted away thereafter. There was a light spring passage late in April and during May. In June there was two at St Austell Bay on 6th; one of which summered, one at St Mawes 8th to 10th, one in Mounts Bay until 23rd and one off Porthgwarra the same day. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Carrick Roads: noted until Mar 24th with max of 11 Jan 5th. Looe: noted until Mar 4th with max of 14 Jan 28th. Mounts Bay: noted until Jun 23rd with max of 12 Feb 17th. St Johns Lake: four regularly noted until Mar 3rd but five Feb 15th. Mevagissey: noted until Apr 26th with max of 15 Feb 1st. Helford Est: noted until Mar 13th with max of six Mar 1st. Carnsew Pool: five regular until Mar 4th but six Mar 1st. Camel Est: noted until Apr 1st with max of five Feb 15th. St Ives: noted until May 5th with max of 11 Jan 10th. Gerrans Bay: noted until Apr 18th with max of 12 Mar 29th. St Austell Bay: noted throughout with max of 32 Mar 19th. Veryan Bay: noted until Apr 18th with max of eight last date. Falmouth Bay: five Feb 3rd. St Mawes: six Feb 15th. Up to four at many other sites. As with the other diver species, birds were scarce during autumn and the second winter period. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Austell: maximum of 18 Dec 2nd. St Ives: 13 west between Sept 5th and Dec 30th with max of four Oct 31st. Veryan Bay: noted from Oct 7th with max of six Nov 29th to Dec 13th. Gerrans Bay: noted from Oct 31st with max of seven Nov 3rd. Looe: noted from Nov 18th with max of five Nov 24th and five west Dec 29th. Rame Head: 15 west Dec 29th. LITTLE GREBE - Tachybaptus ruficollis Scarce resident. Breeds in very low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The only regular breeding site in recent years has been Stithians Reservoir, but very low water levels here in the last two years has not proved conducive to successful breeding. This year, there was no breeding season information at all from this site. Breeding did apparently occur at Dozmary Pool where a pair with two non-flying young were seen Sept 1st, and was probable at Caerhays Lake where a juvenile was seen with two adults Aug 15th to 31st. As suspected the number of birds overwintering from 1989 was low and there was little improvement during January or February. Spring passage was restricted to singles at Loe Pool Mar 21st and Swanpool May 12th. Apart from the breeding records the first in autumn were two at Rosemelling Clay Pit Jul 26th. Very few arrived until mid October and parties throughout November were smaller than normal. The majority arrived from mid December, but even then the total was low. Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: nine January, 12 December. Lynher Est: six January, 11 December. Drift Reservoir: nine Jan 12th, eight Dec 9th. Truro River: ten Jan 16th. Hayle Est. complex: 20 Jan 20th, 15 Mar 11th, 15 Dec 17th.

24 Percuil: eight Feb 15th, 14 Dec 14th. Camel Est: eight Mar 5th, ten Dec 16th. Tresillian: ten Sept 26th. Dozmary Pool: eight Sept 28th. Caerhays Lake: six Oct 18th. Loe Pool: seven December.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE - Podiceps cristatus Rare resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred successfully at Lower Tamar Lake in 1930 but did not attempt breed again until 1985. The following table illustrates subsequent events: (n = nest unsuccessful; figures represent number of young reared). 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 College Res. - - - - n n Lower Tamar Lake 1 1 1 1 1 - Upper Tamar Res. 1 1 1 - - - Crowdy Res. - 2 - - - - With a steadily expanding British population, other potential breeding sites should not be overlooked. A single bird was noted at Crowdy Res. until May 1st and presumably the same was at Colliford Res. Jun 29th to Aug 26th. Lynher Est: noted until mid April with a max of eight Jan 1st and from October to the end of the year with a max of ten during November. St Johns Lake: two regular until Mar 10th but three Jan 4th. One from Dec 23rd was joined by another Dec 31st. Mounts Bay: singles Jan 3rd and Nov 26th to Dec 2nd. Carrick Roads: two Jan 7th, one Feb 15th. Camel Est: one Feb 11th. College Res: one Mar 2nd. St Austell Bay: singles Apr 10th and Nov 24th to Dec 2nd. Crowdy Res: one Sept 1st. Tamar Est: singles Nov 1st and Dec 2nd. Colliford Res: three Dec 1st.

RED-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps grisegna

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Most are noted in the sheltered Days of the south coast between Par and Falmouth, but regular sites on the north coast include St Ives Bay and Camel Est. Due mainly to the sterling work of RL on the south coast over the last 5/6 years this species has been shown to be more common than previously thought.(An account of these observations appears in 'Birds in Cornwall 1987' pps. 122 - 125). Veryan Bay: two from 1989 were joined by a third Jan 17th. One Apr 2nd. In autumn noted from Oct 18th (2) to Dec 13th with a max of eight Nov 29th. RL et al. Gerrans Bay: one Jan 8th SMC.BTSC. Carrick Roads: one from 1989 remained until Jan 28th, but another was present Jan 8th. SMC.BTSC.DSF.RW et al. Falmouth Bay: one Jan 29th, three Jan 30th. BC. Carnsew Pool: one from 1989 to Apr 3rd. DSF.SCW. et al. Crowan Res: one from 1989 to Feb 18th. GRW.MW. et al. Lynher Est: singles Jan 14th and Dec 22nd into 1991. GDL.SCM.RWG. et al. Helford Est: one Jan 4th to Feb 4th. LAHS.BC. Mevagissey: singles Feb 19th (flew west) and Mar 6th. RL. St Austell Bay: one Nov 4th into 1991. RL.DJ. Looe: one Nov 24/25th. per CFNHC.

25 Mounts Bay: one Dec 1st. GRW.MW. St Johns Lake: one Dec 22nd. PE.RWG.EJW. Whitsand Bay: one Dec 23rd per CFNHC. 1989 Lynher Est: one Dec 10th AB.PB.

SLAVONIAN GREBE - Podiceps auritus

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Largest parties occur off the south coast between Par and Falmouth, but smaller numbers regularly frequent several north coast localities notably St Ives Bay, Camel Estuary and Carnsew Pool, Hayle. Whilst the preceding species has become more numerous around the Cornish coast in recent years, the present species has become less obvious. There was another diminution in numbers this year with observations from only 15 localities. This decrease is particularly noticeable on the north coast, where the Camel Estuary is now the sole regular site for the species. It is generally believed that intensive use of monofilament fishing nets is the major cause of this reduction. None was reported this year, from St Ives Bay, nor Newquay Bay - both former prime sites for the species. The last in spring were three at Falmouth Apr 3rd and the first returning bird was at Mounts Bay Nov 3rd. Only three double-figure flocks were reported for the whole year. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: five from 1989 remained to Jan 1st but then only two or three until Feb 24th. One or two Dec 23rd into 1991. Carrick Roads: six from 1989 to Jan 7th. Camel Est: four from 1989 increased to seven Jan 29th but gradually reducing to three Mar 10th. One Nov 9th, two Dec 1st, three Dec 3rd into 1991. Falmouth Bay: Five Jan 5th, then three to Apr 3rd. St Austell Bay: eight Jan 12th, then lower numbers until 15 Mar 19th. Noted from Nov 26th with max of ten Dec 15th but only four Dec 31st. Gerrans Bay: noted from Jan 13th to Mar 29th with max of 13 Jan 8th. Two Dec 24th. Looe: noted Jan 14th to Mar 3rd with max of four last date and from Dec 8th with max of three Dec 31st. There was no more than three at any other site in the first winter and no more than two at any other site in the second winter period. BLACK-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps nigricollis Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. The scarcest of the grebes in Cornish waters, occurring like the others, mainly off the south coast between Par and Falmouth. More likely to be encountered on inland waters than Slavonian Grebe. Carrick Roads: 12 at the end of 1989 had reduced to ten by Jan 8th, but none thereafter. EJC.RL.SMC.BTSC. et at. Mounts Bay: one from 1989 to Mar 28th. MS.JFR.RWW. et al. Veryan Bay: three Jan 17th, one Nov 1st. RL. Helford Est: one Jan 31st to Mar 8th LAHS. St Austell Bay: one Oct 27th to Nov 2nd, two Dec 19th to 24th, four Dec 25th. RL.GRW.MW.DJ. Other reports received, but lacking adequate documentation.

NORTHERN FULMAR - Fulmaris glacialis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. First bred in Cornwall in 1944 and has subsequently colonised the entire coast of the county. Breeding success can best be gauged at the end of the summer when adults have left breeding ledges to moult, leaving well grown young to fend for themselves. 26 For recent breeding records see Breeing Seabirds Survey Results 1987 (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 113-121) and Breeding Seabird Survey 1985 (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 124-145). Breeding was again aparsely reported. There was three nests at St Anthony Head, probably nine nests at Portscatho, c. 40 nests at Manare Point, 'uncountable number of nests' at Jacka Point, one pair \ mile west of Maenporth, up to six prospecting at Piskies Cove, Prussia Cove, 'a colony' at Lands End, five pairs west of Mousehole, three nests at Hells Mouth, five pairs raised four chicks at Porth Joke, two nests with chicks at Lewannick, Newquay, 31 pairs possibly breeding at Beacon Cove, two nests with chicks at Trevose Head, 347 on ledges between Pentire Point and Ranie Point, two pairs sitting at Trewethett Gut and three occupied nests at Efford Cliff, Bude. Heavy passage was noted particularly off the north coast during the severe gales of January and February but spring and summer movements were almost non­ existent. Maximum numbers: Newquay: 420 Jan 26th, 2236 west in one hour Feb 27th. Cape Cornwall: 430 Feb 2nd, 785 Feb 26th. Downderry: 200 per hour west Feb 4th. Godrevy: 1060 west in \\ hours Feb 27th. Rame Head: 300 west Apr 15th. A total of 36 birds was reported during October, the maximum being five off Porthgwarra Oct 6th and seven off Newquay and five off St Ives Oct 31st. Bird had started to return to breeding ledges by Nov 18th when 79 were noted off Trevose Head. Second winter movements were negligible. Apart from 250 per hour moving west off Pentewan Dec 28th, there was no significant passage. Blue phase birds were reported as follows: Godrevy: one DD Feb 27th PAR. Newquay: one D Apr 17th. RL. St Ives: one DD Apr 19th. SMC. et al.

CORY'S SHEARWATER - Calonectris diomedea Scarce passage migrant (mainly late July to early September) with occasional 'good years. Porthgwarra: 114 Jul 27th, 1172 Jul 28th, 17 Jul 29th, three Aug 15th. JFR.JH.BKM.RW.DSF.SJC.MS.MCH.SML. et al. Lizard: two Jul 29th. ARP. Pendeen: singles Aug 15th and 18th. MCH.SML.AD.RMRJ. RMV Scillonian: one Aug 16th. MCH.SML. The total of 1311 is the second highest ever (beaten only by 2765 in 1980) and the peak count of 1172 at Porthgwarra fell only 30 short of the record count off the same locality 12th August 1980. The county mainland total moves to c.5293 - all since 1959. This year's passage occurred a little earlier than usual. Monthly breakdown: Apr - one, May - two, Jun - five, Jul - 1598 (30%), Aug - 3628 (69%), Sept - 52, Oct - three, Nov - two and Dec - two. Top Sites: Porthgwarra - 5105 (96%), RMV Scillonian - 59, St Ives - 37, Lizard - 33 and Pendeen - 26. Correction to 1989 Report. Porthgwarra: 200+ Aug 14th DJB.PH. (The county total has been amended accordingly). GREAT SHEARWATER - Puffinus gravis

Scarce passage migrant (mainly late July to early September). Very rare in Spring. Porthgwarra: ten Jul 29th, six Aug 15th, four Aug 19th. DSF.SJC.MCH.SML.JFR.DEB.JH.JMW et al.

27 Lizard: one Jul 29th ARP. RMV Scillonian: ten Aug 12th, six Aug 16th. JFR.MCH.SML. St Ives: 15 Aug 16th DSF.SGR. Pendeen: four Aug 16th and singles Aug 17th and Oct 6th. JFR.AD.RMRJ. SMC.ABR. et al. The total of c.58 is the sixth best ever. The county mainland total moves to c.1354 since 1930, prior to which data is sketchy. Monthly breakdown: Apr - two, Jun - two, Jul - 74, Aug - 434 (32%), Sept - 741 (55%), Oct - 99 and Nov - two. Top sites: RMV Scillonian/at sea - 634 (47%), Porthgwarra - 397 (29%), Pendeen - 120 and St Ives - 112. Shearwater sp. Porthgwarra: singles Jul 28th (probably Great) and 31st. MS.JFR.

SOOTY SHEARWATER - Puffinus griseus Passage migrant (mainly late June to early October). Occasional 'good' years. Mevagissey: one Jan 21st RL and six Jul 28th. Lizard: two Jul 4th. Holywell Bay: one Jul 5th. Rame Head: one Jul 7th, three Jul 29th and one Aug 10th. (Annual here since 1985). Pendeen: one Jul 9th and a total of c.315 between Aug 16th and Oct 27th with max of 43 Sept 5th, 49 Sept 6th, 63 Sept 19th and 108 Oct 3rd. Porthgwarra: c.57 between Jul 28th and Oct 24th with max of 28 Sept 5th. (The poorest year here since 1984). St Ives: c.269 between Aug 16th and Oct 6th with max of 103 Sept 5th and 73 Sept 6th. Newquay: one Aug 16th. (The poorest year here since 1981). Rumps Point: one Aug 16th, 43 Aug 30th. (The best ever day total here). Cape Cornwall: 44 Aug 30th, 31 Sept 6th. Gurnards Head: one Sept 6th, two Sept 21st and two Sept 22nd. Godrevy: one Oct 6th. The total of c.782 is the sixth highest ever and take the county mainland total to c. 13532 since 1937. The first Mevagissey bird is the latest ever and only the second ever for January. Top sites: St Ives - 5767 (43%), Pendeen - 3511 (26%), Porthgwarra - 2438 (18%), Cape Cornwall - 403, Godrevy - 328 and Newquay - 287. 1989 Rame Head: nine west Aug 14th. AHJH.

MANX SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus Passage migrant (mainly March to October). Feeding parties in summer, presumably from breeding colonies on the islands off the coast of South Wales. 1990 proved to be a very interesting year for the species, including a series of February records - the first records for that month since 1979. Off Cape Cornwall there was one on 8th, two on 12th and 43 on 26th. There was also four off St Ives and five off Pendeen on 27th. Spring passage commenced with 11 at Bude Mar 24th but numbers were low until mid April. Large feeding parties were noted off the north coast throughout the summer and included record site counts at Rumps Point, Perranporth and Trevose Head. Not surprisingly, in an autumn generally lacking gales, passage proved light, although a count off Pendeen Oct 6th was large for that month. Only seven were reported in November - the last off Pendeen Nov 24th. Maximum numbers: Rame Head: c.2194 west and 117 east between Apr 14th and Aug 18th with max of 552 June 9th, 586 Jun 23rd and 646 Jul 3rd.

28 Perranporth: 5366 west in 1^ hours Apr 15th. Trevose Head: 2800 west May 14th. Porthgwarra: 600 per hour west Jun 13th, 273 Jun 23rd. Bude: 3000 per hour west Jun 23rd. Godrevy: 2700 Jul 5th. Pendeen: 3373 Jul 1st, 4500 Sept 6th, 280 Oct 6th - all west. Rumps Point: 4840 in two hours Jul 5th, 13500 in three hours Jul 9th, 584 Aug 30th - all west. Cape Cornwall: 2250 Aug 30th. Conversely, passage off St Ives was poorly documented - 185 Sept 22nd being the maximum!

BALEARIC SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus mauretanicus

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly late July to late October). The Western Mediterranean race of Manx Shearwater and considered by many to be conspecific with the Eastern Mediterranean race, coloquially known as Yelkouan Shearwater. Status is currently under review and it seems likely that one or other, or both races will be elevated to full species status in due course. Cape Cornwall: two Feb 26th BC. Mevagissey: singles Jun 26th and Oct 25th. Holywell Bay: one Jul 5th. Porthgwarra: c.29 between Jul 21st and Oct 10th with max of seven Aug 19th. Lizard: two Aug 10th, five Oct 6th. RMV Scillonian: two Aug 12th. St Ives: c.65 west between Aug 26th and Oct 3rd with max of 25 Oct 3rd. Rumps Point: one Aug 16th. Pendeen: c.42 west between Aug 17th and Nov 16th with max of ten Oct 3rd. Newquay: singles Sept 6th and 22nd, Oct 31st and Dec 31st. Rame Head: eight Oct 6th. Portwrinkle: one Oct 6th. The total of c. 164 is about the average of recent years and takes the county mainland total to c.4337 since 1958, prior to which data is incomplete. The two at Cape Cornwall are only the second and third records for that month (previously one at St Ives 8th February 1969). Top sites: St Ives - 2405 (55%), Porthgwarra - 640, Lizard - 554, RMV Scillonian - 216, Pendeen - 155, Newquay - 123.

BRITISH STORM PETREL - Hydrobates pelagicus Uncommon passage migrant. Small feeding parties in summer months (mainly north coast). Breeding has not been proved in the county since 1968 but may occur unnoticed on islands off the north coast. Exceptionally rare inland. 1990 proved to be a good year for the species with regular passage in June including an unusually large south coast movement Jun 24th. Sightings were regular from the north coast during July and August but the last was at Newquay Sept 22nd - the earliest departure date since 1978. Trevose Head: one May 16th. Newquay: c.47 between Jun 2nd and Sept 22nd with max of 26 Jun 21st. Rame Head: c.36 between Jun 3rd and Aug 10th with max of 20 last date. St Ives: c.537 between Jun 5th and Sept 21st with max of 480+ in four hours Jul 1st. (The fifth highest ever count here). RMV Scillonian: c.125 between Jun 9th and Aug 16th with max of 100 Aug 12th. Porthgwarra: c.353 between Jun 23rd and Aug 19th with max of 94 Aug 11th, 70 Aug 17th and 74 Aug 19th. Mevagissey: 270 west in 1^ hours Jun 24th (a record count here) RL, three Jun 25th and three Jul 27th. Pendeen: c.228 between Jul 1st and Aug 19th with max of 200 first date. Lizard: four Jul 29th, two Aug 8th and nine Aug 10th.

29 Single day reports: one found dead at Mounts Bay Jun 18th, 12 flew south off Rosemullion Head Jun 24th, 19 west off Godrevy and 22 off Rumps Point Jul 5th, three off Mousehole Jul 29th and 15 off Porthcurno Aug 15th.

LEACH'S PETREL - Oceanodroma leuccorhoa Scarce passage migrant (mainly early September to late October) and generally a little later than Storm Petrel. None remained after the December 1989 'wreck'. Cape Cornwall: one Sept 6th. BC. St Ives: In September there was 11 on 6th, two on 7th, six on 21st and two on 22nd. DSF.SGR. et al. Pendeen: one Sept 22nd. DO. The total of c.23 is the lowest since 1982 and takes the county mainland total to c.1954. Unlike 1989, the late December gales this year failed to produce any records. Monthly breakdown: Jan - three, Mar - one, Apr - two, May - two, Jun - four, Aug - ten, Sept - 1037 (53%), Oct - 533 (27%), Nov - 210 and Dec - 152. Top sites are predictably St Ives - 1399 (72%), Newquay - 231, Pendeen - 66, Godrevy/Navax - 63 and Bude - 48.

NORTHERN GANNET - Sula bassana

Passage migrant. Bred on Gull and Island off Padstow until 1478 but the nearest present day colony is on Grassholm Island, Pembrokeshire. The gales of late January and throughout February brought many thousands of birds close inshore off both coasts. Large flocks fished in various bays, but many also moved straight through. Spring and summer passage was less significant but there was several days of heavy autumn movement, particularly in late October. Maximum numbers: Mevagissey: heavy passage on several days Jan/Feb with peaks of 400 Jan 21st and 550 Feb 20th. Portscatho: counts of 1560 west in ten minutes Jan 21st and 1500 west in ten minutes Feb 1st were quite exceptional, but the observer could not withstand the driving rain and howling wind for any longer period. PR. Newquay: heavy passage almost daily Jan 19th - Feb 11th with peaks of 759 in one hour Feb 2nd, and 797 in one hour Feb 8th. Also 857 Oct 5th and 1535 Oct 31st. Killigerran Head: 4300 in 1| hours Jan 29th. Looe: 7200 in three hours Feb 4th. Cape Cornwall: 9500 in five hours Feb 8th, 6650 in three hours Feb 12th, 25870 in seven hours Feb 26th and 1010 in four hours Sept 6th. BC. Godrevy: 10000 Feb 26th. Rame Head: c.3357 between Apr 14th and Dec 22nd with max of 324 Jul 21st. Porthgwarra: c.2360 between Aug 11th and Oct 13th with max of 918 Oct 2nd. Pendeen: c.19514 between Aug 13th and Oct 31st with max of 7150 Oct 27th and 6900 Oct 31st. St Ives: 3575 Oct 27th, 6000 Oct 31st. Sennen: 2088 in one hour Oct 11th.

CORMORANT - Phalacrocorax carbo Resident. Breeds at a number of sites on both coasts. Occurs on all reservoirs and most other freshwater localities from time to time. For recent breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987' (Birds in Cornwall 1987 (pps. 113-121) and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey 1985' (Birds in Cornwall 1985, pps. 125-145). This year there were breeding records from; Hells Mouth - six nests, The Moules - at least six nests, Varley Head - six pairs, Bounds Cliff - one pair and Ranie Point - ten pairs.

30 Maximum numbers were lower than 1989. Tamar Est: 65 January, 73 September. St Johns Lake: 36 January, 53 September. Colliford Res: 22 January, 23 July. Camel Est: 22 January and March, 33 December. Tamar Lakes: 16 Jan 3rd. St Neot: 35 flew north Apr 21st. Lynher Est: 31 October. Small numbers were reported from virtually all of the county's reservoirs at one time or another during the year. 1989 Siblyback Res: 21 Aug 20th. SHAG - Phalacrocorax aristotelis Resident. Breeds on both coasts. Passage migrant. Very rare inland. For recent breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987' (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 116-117) and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey 1985' (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 131-134) This year there were breeding records from; Lands End, Godrevy - 33 occupied nests, The Moules - five pairs and Black Head, St Austell. Several large rafts were observed during the first three months of the year but summer and autumn records were sparse. Maximum numbers: Carrick Roads: 90 Jan 2nd. Trevose Head: 76 Jan 28th, 75 Mar 7th and 142 west Oct 7th. Falmouth Bay: 480 Jan 30th (the largest raft in the county since 1981) BC, 250 Feb 10th. Lizard: 232 Mar 17th. Trevail: 280+ Mar 18th. Porthbear: 62 Dec 24th. BITTERN - Botaurus stellaris A rare winter visitor occurring mainly between late October and early March. Occasional passage migrant. Despite a suggestion in the 1989 Report that the bird at Marazion in December was overwintering into 1990, no evidence has subsequently been received to support this claim. In fact, due no doubt to the amelioraion in winter climate, 1990 proved to be the first blank year for the species since 1975. NIGHT HERON - Nycticorax nycticorax Rare vagrant. Copperhouse: adult flew west Mar 20th. LPW. Loe Pool: sub-adult Mar 20th - Apr 21st. SB.ARP. Par: adult Mar 24th - Apr 7th. Sub-adult Mar 26th - Apr 10th. GRW.MW.SMC.EJC et al. St Austell: adult for about a week from Mar 29th decimated a pond full of Koi. SMC et al. Tresillian: adult Mar 29th - Apr 13th JS.WARW.JAJ.SAB. These are the first since 1987. All accepted by BBRC. Six in one year is unprecedented but they formed part of a large invasion into the U.K. involving at least twenty birds. The county mainland total moves to c.30. There is only one previous record for March. Monthly breakdown: Mar - seven, Apr - five May - eight, Jul, Sept and Oct - one each and six unspecified. Top sites: Hayle: three, Penzance, Sennen, Lizard, Gunwalloe, Par and Loe Pool - two apiece.

31 LITTLE EGRET - Egretta garzetta Rare passage migrant. There have been only three previous instances of overwintering in the county, but a total of nine remained from 1989 to 1990. Several apparently new birds appeared in March but these were generally short- stayers. All birds had vacated the county by May 5th and there is absolutely no substance to rumours of successful breeding. In late summer there was an influx, not as large as that of 1989, but significant nonetheless. There was another small influx in September and yet another in October. At least eight overwintered into 1991. As usual records are very difficult to assess with considerable dupication probable. Lynher Est/Tamar Est/St Johns Lake: one remained from 1989 to at least Jan 14th, another Mar 3rd - Apr 28th. One Jul 15th, joined by another Jul 21st and two more Aug 18th. All four were noted until Aug 27th, then three to the end of October and at least two to the end of the year.SCM.GDL.EJC.RWG.HMe et al. Fowey Est: one from 1989 remained and was joined by another Jan 28th. Both stayed until Mar 18th. Two Oct 10th into 1991, but three Dec 21st.LAS.FMS.AS.et al. Fal Est. complex: one at Devoran from 1989 until Apr 23rd but three Mar 12th - 15th. Presumably singles from the above at Ruan Lanihorne Jan 4th, Tresillian Mar 14th and Penryn Mar 31st. JHWW.LAHS.BW. et al. One at Ruan Lanihorne Aug 9th - Sept 11th, three Oct 13/14th, one Nov 1st - 27th and two to Dec 23rd. Sightings at Truro River where birds were noted sporadically Aug 19th - Dec 18th, with a maximum of three Oct 20th and Nov 2nd, presumably refer to the same mobile birds. There was also one at Tresillian Oct 1st. GCJ.PR.SCW.LAHS.RL. DJe.PT et al. Hayle Est: three from 1989 remained until Jan 30th, but a fourth was present Jan 1st. One was later found dead under power cables LPW. Two stayed until May 2nd with one to May 5th. Two Jul 5th to Aug 31st, but three Jul 26th. One to Sept 29th, two Sept 30th then one into 1991. DSF.LPW.RK.JW. et al. St. Erth; one Feb 14th was presumably one of the above SL. Gannel Est: two from 1989 remained until Apr 22nd. (One again visited Fistral Beach Feb lst/2nd). One Oct 25th into 1991. SMC.TMC.LW.NB.DIJ. et al. Camel Est: one Mar 8th - Apr 15th. Two Jul 26th — Aug 1st with one to Aug 30th. DIJ.DTC.CEy.DC.ML.DLJ. et al. Helford Est: one Mar 21st. LAHS. Poldhu/Gunwalloe: one Apr 21st. SB. Croft Pascoe Pool: one Jul 27th. NBE. Marazion: one flew west Aug 2nd. BP. Rame Head: one flew west Aug 4th. EJW. Drift Res: one Sept 8th - Oct 6th (may have been the second Hayle Bird). MS et al. Newlyn: one Sept 14th (presumed the Drift Bird). MS Par: two Sept 30th. DJ. Gurnards Head: one flew west Dec 15th. EGG.GGG.NJP. With a possible maximum of c.32 new birds the county mainland total moves to c.137. Monthly breakdown: Jan - three, Mar - six, Apr - 25, May - 14, Jun - five, Jul - 11, Aug - 42, Sept - nine, Oct - eight, Nov - four, Dec - six, undated - four. Top sites: Hayle Est - 21, Marazion - 18, Camel Est - 12, Ruan Lanihorne, Fowey Est. and Stithians Res - seven each.

32 GREY HERON — Ardea cinerea

Resient. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Breeding was reported from the following heronries during 1990 (with comparative data for 1984/9). (Numerals = number of nests counted, n.c. = no count, p= present, not counted).

90 89 88 87 86 85 84 Shillingham, Lynher 16 16 17 - - - - Merryhue, Callington 3 6 (5/6 foi r sevei •al yeari I) Looe 11 9 12/13 6 8/9 7 n.c. Penpol, Fowey Est 2 1 Hall Walk, Bodinnick 1 (new r leronry? ) St Winnow, Fowey Est. 8 16 13 1 + 6 n.c. 8 Treesmill, Tywardreath 2/3 (annui d for seyera l 5 rears). Pelyn, Percuil 6 7 7 9 2 5 n.c. St Just in Roseland 2 4 1 1 - - - Malpas 12 10 n.c. 12 6 10 5 + King Harry Ferry 1 (Is thi:s the Pil1 Farn1 site?) Borlase Wood, Philleigh 4 5 8 6 3 6 n.c. Polwheveral, Helford 11 10 11 10+ n.c. 3 + n.c. Marazion Marsh 3 4 6+ 7 6 6 1/2 Little Petherick, Camel 1 (new s ite). Pinkson Creek, Camel 14 16 P P 14 10/12 P Sladesbridge 2 3 4 n.c. n.c. n.c. n.c.

1989 addition Colleycliff, Gunnislake 0 4 3/4 4 - - Note also the correction to the Shillingham heronry for 1989 - thus the total for that year increases to 120. This year the total was down to 99, but no counts were received for Cododden Wood or Trelissick. The reduction may be due to a loss of nesting trees during the gales of the first winter period. Maximum numbers were correspondingly lower this year: Tamar Est: 22 Jan, 28 March, 33 Aug and 27 Dec Lynher Est: 13 Jan, 25 Aug and 29 Dec. Percuil: 18 Feb 27th. Camel Est: 27 March, 18 Sept 11th. Fowey Est: 13 Mar 18th, 24 Jun 10th, 17 Oct 20th. St Johns Lake: 30 Aug, 32 Dec. Helford Est: 16 Aug 21st. Playing Place: 14 west Aug 25th. Hayle Est: 16 Sept 13th. The 33 at Tamar Est. is believed to be the highest ever count there and the 24 at Fowey Est. equals the previous highest there. A single spring migrant was noted flying in off the sea at Nanquidno Apr 1st but more than usual were reported moving about in autumn - a reaction perhaps to a lack of suitable feeding places in the parched landscape. Apart from the Playing Place record, 16 flew west at Marazion Aug 25th, seven arrived off the sea at Lizard Aug 27th and two flew out to sea at Lands End Oct 23rd. At Porthgwarra there was two Aug 2nd, five Oct 17th and singles Oct 22nd and 23rd - all flying out to sea, whilst at Trevose Head there was two Sept 2nd, three Sept 13th and nine Oct 14th - all flying west.

PURPLE HERON - Ardea purpurea Vagrant (mainly spring). Gunwalloe: adult Mar 31st to Apr 28th SB.JH.ARP. et al.

33 (It also visited Poldhu Apr 10th to 18th). Retallack, St Columb: adult May 3rd/4th. SMC.MHa.LW. Annual since 1986. The county mainland total advances to 21. The Gunwalloe bird is the second earliest ever. Monthly breakdown: Mar - two, Apr - eight, May - seven, Sept — two, Oct - one, unspecified - one. The Retallack bird is the third at that site, whilst Marazion, Perranporth, Tamar Est. and Gunwalloe have all attracted two birds.

Purple Heron Steve Bird

WHITE STORK - Ciconia ciconia

Vagrant. Devoran: two flew southwest Sept 9th JHWW. Penhale, Mullion: two Sept 9th/10th. ARP.NBE.RB. Kynance: two Sept 10th RK. These two birds were identified as free-flying wanderers from Whipsnade Zoo. Having left Cornwall they meandered through southern counties and eventually returned to their home. These birds highlight the escape problem. Had they not landed at Mullion and exhibited evidence of their captive origin they surely would have been considered genuine vagrants. In the circumstances they are omitted from the county total.

SPOONBILL - Platalea leucorodia

Rare passage migrant. Occasionally overwinters, especially on the Lynher Estuary. Lynher Est: one from 1989 remained to May 9th. SCM.WJW. et al. A second winter bird, presumably the same as above returned Sept 22nd and remained into 1991. MBe.RWG. et al. Assuming that the same bird was involved in both winter periods the county mainland total remains at c. 165 this century (but their is obviously some duplication of wandering and returning birds). Birds have arrived in every month of the year with peaks of 40 in October and 32 in November. Spring records are less numerous with a peak of 17 in April. 34 Top sites are Ruan Lanihorne - 28, Tamar Est. - 22, Hayle Est. - 20, Marazion - 19 and Lynher Est. - 11. 1988 update: The Hayle Estuary bird of Oct/Nov had been ringed as a nestling at Tweede Dumitjes, Terschelling, Netherlands on 11th June 1988. From the combination of colour rings it was possible to identify it as ring number 8039061. per SMC. MUTE SWAN - Cygnus olor Resident. Breeds. Moulting herds in autumn. Winter visitor. There has been evidence of a general decline in this species population over the last twenty years but hopefully numbers have now stabilised. In 1990 successful breeding was reported from the following localities (with comparative date for the years 1985/9). (p = present, success not known, n = nest, unsuccessful or success not known. Figures = number of young; in some instances more than one successful nest). 90 89 88 87 86 85 Tamar Est. 1 _ 2 _ _ _ Millbrook 6 8 7 7/n St Germans 1 - - - Antony, Lynher 1 n- - n n- 5/-n East Looe 5 - n 4/1 6/n Par Beach 8 2- 5 8 4 7 Pentewan 5 4 6 n Caerhays Lake 4 1 -5 n -2 Ruan Lanihorne 5 5 -3 7 Truro 7 7 - - -_ Swanpool 1 n n n- n- n Stithians Res. 7 5 6/5 5/n/n 4 1 Loe Pool 6/4 5/n 4 3 Helston Amenity Area 6 7 - -7 7 Long Rock Pool 2 n - 4 n- Camel Est. 1 n -3 -8 3/n/n 5/2/n In addition pairs were noted during the breeding season at Moditonham, West Looe, St Andrews Pool, Percuil, Froe Creek, Helston Park Lake and Trenance Lake, Newquay. Nests were built at St Just in Roseland, where the pair failed and at Bude. St Johns Lake: 21 January and October. Tresillian: 28 Jan 3rd. Hayle Est: 41 Jan 11th. 36 Dec 6th. Looe: 29 Jan. 34 Aug. 30 Dec. Camel Est: 14 Mar. 21 Dec. (the most here since 1982). Falmouth: 14 Mar. 17 in autumn. Truro River: 13 Jun 10th. Loe Pool: 16 Jun 18th. Devoran: 18 Oct 21st. Stithians Res: 17 Oct 25th. Apparent migrants included the Stithians birds plus four at Porthewarra Sept 11th and four west there Oct 11th and two noted flying west at Skewjack and Lands End Oct 22nd. Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1990 Jan Feb: Mar .Ap r May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 150 101 122 54 69 71 77 92 160 150 141 171 Hayle Est. 26 37 31 17 33 24 7 10 17 20 25 31 Camel Est. 10 8 13 9 0 3 3 3 8 8 18 21 Looe Est. 29 0 21 0 0 0 32 34 30 22 25 30 Hamoaze 16 2 4 0 0 0 0 10 0 13 7 9 St Johns Lake 5 4 5 9 10 10 0 10 8 8 10 8

35 BEWICK'S SWAN - Cygnus columbianus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1959. Maer Lake: two Jan 26th. IK. Crowdy Res: three (one adult) Oct 28th to Nov 28th. BTC et al. Colliford Res: five (two adults) Nov 28th. EG. The best year since 1983. These ten take the county mainland total to c.453 since 1930, prior to which data is very sketchy. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 115 (25%), Feb - 48, Mar - 33, Apr - six, Oct - 21, Nov - 127 (28%) and Dec - 103 (23%). The Crowdy birds are the first there since 1981 and the Colliford birds the first ever there, although nearby Dozmary ranks very highly in the top sites: Camel Est. - 61, Dozmary Pool - 59, Hayle Kimbro Pool - 56, Lower Tamar Lake - 46 and Hayle Est. - 33. WHOOPER SWAN - Cygnus cygnus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1971. Skewjack: two Oct 20th MJC. Treen: two Oct 24th. SJH.DO.BJS.DJS.RWW. Long Rock Pool: four (two adults) Nov 1st to 24th and Dec 18th. DSF.JFR. et al. Camel Est: four flew west Nov 4th. SBi.JAB.NJC.EJW. Drift Res: four (the Long Rock birds) Nov 25th to Dec 4th, another adult Dec 5th and two more adults Dec 11th. The seven noted only the once, but the original four remained until Dec 19th. JFR.MS. et al. Croft Pascoe Pool: five Dec 2nd into 1991. SB.NBE.BC.RB. Mullion: two flew south Dec 10th. ARP. Gwithian: five flew north Dec 18th PAR. These records are not as easy to evaluate as the Bewick's Swans. Assuming that the Skewjack and Treen birds were the same and knowing that the four at Long Rock moved to Drift, the total of c.25 birds is the best since 1981 and take the county mainland total to c.409 since 1930, prior to which there is little information. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 81, Feb - 20, Mar - 14, Apr - one, Sept - one, Oct - 41, Nov 160 (39%) and Dec - 91. The Gwithian birds were the first there since 1969, the Skewjack birds the first there since 1981 and the Camel Estuary birds the first there since 1982. Top sites: Camel Est. - 74, Lower Tamar Lake and Hayle Est. - 36, Marazion/Long Rock Pool - 35, Loe Pool, Tamar Est. and Gwithian - 22 each. Swan sp. St Agnes: five flew north Nov 3rd. CC.SC. Mitchell: five flew south Nov 28th. PHi. PINK-FOOTED GOOSE - Anser brachyrhynchus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Drift Res: one Sept 20th. EGG.GGG. Hayle Est: one Sept 20th to Nov 3rd. DSF.JH. et al. Stithians Res: one Sept 21st. JH. The same bird involved in all sightings. The county mainland total moves to c.47, involved in fifteen occurrences This is the second earliest ever in autumn. Monthly breakdown: Jan - four, Feb - three, May - one, Sept - 22, Oct - 11, Nov - two, and Dec - four. Top Sites: Mawgan Porth - 20 (one gaggle), Walmsley Sanctuary - six, Tamar Est. - five and Tamar Lakes - three.

36 WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE - Anser albifrons

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Most birds arriving in Cornwall are of the Eurasian race 'Anser albifrons albifrons' but small numbers of the less common Greenland race 'Anser albifrons flavirostris' occasionally occur. The species was formerly more numerous with a regular wintering flock at the Walmsley Sanctuary from 1935 to 1973. The size of this flock peaked at an average of 146 in 1961 to 1965 (excluding huge numbers in 1963), but since 1973 birds have arrived with less regularity, with none between 1982 and 1988, and none again this year. The reasons for this decline are not fully understood and have not been fully investigated. A number of factors are probably involved but the two most popular theories are also probably the two most popular. The first relates to the succession of mild winters in the late 1970's and early 1980's which resulted in fewer White- fronts being forced into the far south west with a consequent loss of homing instinct. The second, and probably more valid explanation, concerns the change in the botanical make-up of the Sanctuary and adjacent Amble Marshes as a result of the damming and straightening of the River Amble. Initially the effect was minimal but persistent dredging of the river bed has resulted in a substantial lowering of the water table. There has thus been a gradual drying up of the Sanctuary compounded by a lack of inundation by salt water in recent years. Sluice gates installed in ditches were originally opened at regular intervals to maintain a degree of salinity in the marshes but the recent lack of flooding has resulted in an apparently irrevocable change in the ecology of the Sanctuary. Some remedial work has already been completed and other improvements are imminent, but it seems highly unlikely that the present species will ever regularly winter here in good numbers again. North Cliffs: four Nov 5th. DL. Crowdy Res: ten (flavirostris) Nov 18th to 26th, eleven Nov 27th to Dec 2nd. BTC.RS. et al. Skewjack: two Dec 2nd. RJH.PW. Yet another poor year.

GREYLAG GOOSE - Anser anser Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Many birds are undoubtedly feral escapes or wanderers. Nanjizal: one May 27th (was seen later the same day at Hayle Est.). BKM. The county mainland total moves to c. 116 since 1930. This is the second latest ever in spring. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 12, Feb - seven, Mar - seven, Apr - two, May - three, Jul - eight, Aug - one, Sept - one, Oct - 23, Nov - 32, Dec - 20. Top sites: Camel Est. - 47 (41%), Kynance - ten, Tamar Lakes - eight, Hayle Kimbro Pool - seven, St Eval and St Mawgan - five each. (Sadly, a feral bird which had resided at Par Beach Pool for almost twenty years has finally disappeared, having been last noted May 6th J J. Presumably, it finally succumbed to years of bullying by the resident pair of Mute Swans.)

CANADA GOOSE - Branta canadensis Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Prior to 1983, apart from odd migrants, the species was confined almost exclusively to south east Cornwall. Between 1968 and 1975 there was an average of just one bird per annum and apart from a small influx in the arctic weather conditions of winter 1962/3, a total of only nine birds was reported prior to 1968. The following table illustrates the increase in breeding records in the county, since the first in 1983. The species is undoubtedly on the brink of reaching plague-like proportions and

37 becoming a nuisance, as it has in other areas. Despite this, it remains a scarce wanderer to the far west of the county. (Figures represent number of young seen; B = bred, success not known; n nest; p = present during breeding season). 90 89 88 87 86 85 84 Crowdy Res. 6 21 15 6 8 7 5 Fleardon Farm 4 P 4 B 4 - - Colliford Res. P P 5 5 5 - - Lynher Est. P 6 - - 4 - - Regular reports and maximum numbers: Colliford Res: 98 from 1989 to at least Jan 14th. 162 June/July, 96 Dec 16th. DAC.CFNHC. Crowdy Res: 52 from 1989 increased to 53 Jan 14th. 82 Jun 16th, 102 Aug 8th and 120 Nov 3rd/4th. ML. Tamar Lakes: 50 Jan 27th, 142 Aug 13th, 170 Aug 25th, 228 Oct 16th, SMC.MB.ABR., and 130 Dec 2nd. Lynher Est: 21 January, 46 November. Tamar Est: 52 flew east Oct 28th, 110 Nov 2nd. The peak numbers at Colliford, Crowdy and Tamar Lakes are all record counts at those sites. Birds were reported from a further 13 sites in the first winter/spring and at two sites in autumn. All reports concerned less than ten birds. BARNACLE GOOSE - Branta leucopsis Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Feral escape. Many of the recent Cornish records undoubtedly refer to feral birds but this year's autumn birds are of interest. Par: one from 1989 remained to Feb 24th. RL.GRW.MW. et al. Upper Tamar Res: one Apr 12th to 18th RMRJ and three Oct 14th. SMC.MB.ABR. et al. Colliford Res: one Jul 15th. BTC. Porthgwarra: eight Oct 14th. GCS.AMH. et al. Godrevy: four flew west Oct 31st. PAR. St Ives: four flew west Oct 31st. DEB.DJB.EG.VRT. Loe Pool: two Nov 1st. SB. Predannack: three Nov 4th. ARP. Pentire, Polzeath: five Nov 4th to 28th, one Nov 29th. DLo. SMC. et al. Camel Est: five Dec 10th. REW. The best year since 1952. The Par, spring Tamar Lake and Colliford Res. birds were all believed to be feral escapes and are not included in the monthly breakdown or site totals. The Godrevy/St Ives birds are obviously the same, as are the Pentire/Camel Est. birds. Thus, the total of c.25 takes the county mainland total to c.206 (plus at least 30 feral individuals). Monthly breakdown: Jan - nine, Feb - 26, Mar - 17, Sept - 31, Oct - 72 (31%), Nov - 38 and Dec - 13. Top sites: Tamar Est. 30 (one gaggle), Godrevy - 22, Camel Est. - 19, Porthgwarra - 18 and St Ives - 14. One of the Pentire birds was colour ringed and could be identified as one ringed at Badlanddal, Hold with Hope, N.E. Greenland on 30th July 1988. Birds from this population have been noted on at least six occasions previously, normally on Gruinart, Islay, Scotland. BRENT GOOSE - Branta bernicla Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Both dark-bellied (Branta bernicla bernicla) and pale-bellied (Branta bernicla hrota) 38 races have been reported in increased numbers in recent years, but Cornwall still does not attract a regular wintering flock. Annual since 1969. Seven birds overwintered from 1989 and there was one in spring. Autumn passage commenced with the second earliest ever and included an excellent gaggle of B. b. 'hrota' at Mounts Bay. Otherwise, it was a widespread, but thin passage involving only c.66 birds and a mere five in the second winter period. Lynher: four from 1989 to Jan 4th. One Oct 31st to Nov 11th. Par: one from 1989 ton Jan 5th. One Oct 9th to 11th, nine Oct 21st and one Oct 28th. Camel Est: two from 1989 to Jan 8th. One Mar 7th and one Nov 22nd into 1991. Hayle Est: four Sept 2nd DSF and one Oct 22nd/23rd. Newquay: six west Sept 9th. Mounts Bay: 19 'hrota' Sept 8th. JFR. St Ives: singles Sept 24th and Oct 3rd. St Johns Lake: two Sept 30th, four Dec 17th. Pendeen: two west Oct 7th. Tamar Est: one Oct 21st. Trevose Head: two north Oct 21st. Lands End: one south Oct 22nd. Stithians Res: one Oct 23rd to 26th. (Very rare inland). Pentewan: one Oct 31st. Godrevy: seven 'hrota' north Nov 3rd. PAR. Gannel Est: one Nov 15th to 18th. 1989 Looe: 11 Sept 17th. CFNHC.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE - Alopechen aegyptiacus

Rare visitor. Feral escape or wanderer. This Category 'C species occurs as a feral species in the U.K., mainly in East Anglia, but with small populations elsewhere, including East Devon. Camel Est: one from 1987 remained throughout the year and into 1991. SMC.DIJ.REW. et al. Innis Fish Farm, Penwithick: one from 1988 remained throughout the year and into 1991. EMC.GRW.MW. et al. Treskilling Pit: one Mar 31st/Apr 1st (the Innis bird). RL. A total of eleven was recorded in Cornwall between 1841 and 1878 but there was no further published record until 1981. There has been 13 since.

RUDDY SHELDUCK - Tadorna ferruginea Vagrant, but the majority, if not all, are presumed escapes from wildfowl collections or wanderers from a feral population in The Netherlands. Skewjack: one May 10th JFR. A suitable date for a genuine vagrant - if such a thing exists! The county mainland total moves to c.17. Monthly breakdown: Jan - one, Apr - one, May - three, Jun - one, Jul - five, Aug - two, Sept - one, Nov - two and unspecified - one. Top sites: Camel Est. - seven, Upper Tamar Res. - three, Ruan Lanihorne and Skewjack - two each.

SHELDUCK - Tadorna tadorna

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding reports for 19% were received from the following localities (with number of young in parentheses). Cargreen (broods of 7 and 4), St Johns Lake (4 broods), Lynher Est. (3 broods), East Looe (one brood), Ruan Lanihorne (37), Tresillian (broods of 8,6,4 and 2), Hayle Est. (broods of 14,9,5,5 and 1) and Camel Est. (3 broods totalling 24). Once again numbers during both winter periods were below the norm.

39 Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 229 January, 305 March, 300 December. Lynher Est: 240 January, 248 March, 200 December. Devoran: 76 Jan 14th, 30 Dec 16th. Percuil: 70 Jan 20th. Tamar Est: 144 February, 125 December. Camel Est: 129 February, 86 December. Hayle Est: 54 Mar 11th to 30th. 25 Dec 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: 112 May 4th. Monthly N WC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1990 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 811 870 754 673 507 464 207 92 45 96 319 751 Hayle Est. 31 38 54 44 26 35 37 4 5 5 5 24 Devoran 76 45 38 25 13 5 0 0 0 0 7 30 Tresillian 26 6 28 26 22 50 12 7 0 5 24 19 Truro River 69 28 36 30 27 33 11 9 0 0 19 26 Ruan Lanihorne 32 6 6 85 112 93 41 0 6 13 16 1 Camel Est. 95 129 104 123 79 32 0 0 0 1 19 86 Tamar Est. 71 144 81 78 68 67 68 9 2 2 46 70 Lynher Est. 141 239 134 126 99 87 22 1 13 29 87 190 St Johns Lake 229 198 205 96 11 13 10 46 19 40 86 284 AMERICAN WOOD DUCK - Aix sponsa

Escapee. Feral release. A Category 'D' species. Drift Res: two drakes Nov 4th. SAMP. The county mainland total moves to ten - but where on earth did these come from? MANDARIN - Aix galericulata Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Escapee. Feral release. A Category 'C species. Most Cornish records probably relate to birds which dervive from a small feral population on the Plym Estuary area of South Devon. Trenance Lake, Newquay: drake from 1989 to at least Apr 13th. BTSC.SMC.DIJ. Truro River: drake from 1989 remained throughout the year and into 1991. NI.BL.RDP. et al. Lynher Est: female Mar 4th. per CFNHC. 1989 Tamar Est: drake Oct 21st per CFNHC. The county mainland total moves to c.39 - all since 1973. Monthly breakdown: Jan - one, Feb - one, Mar - six, Apr - two, Aug - five, Sept - three, Oct - six, Nov - LI, Dec - three and one not dated. Top sites: Camel Est. - eight, Retallack and Lynher Est. - six, Millbrook and Fowey Est. - four. WIGEON - Anas penelope

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. May occur in very large numbers in cold winters. First winter flocks were the smallest for many years, having decreased considerably from the numbers noted in December 1989. Few remained after mid-February and the last in spring was one at Tamar Lake Apr 18th. The first return bird was at Hayle Est. Jul 29th but there was little movement until mid-September. Subsequently there was a gradual build up to higher numbers in December. Maximum numbers: Lynher Est: 614 Jan 16th. 630 September. 1112 Dec 17th.

40 Stithians Res: 226 Jan 7th. 222 Dec 14th. Havle Est: 430 Jan 14th (the poorest first winter showing here since 1981). 840 Oct 22nd. 1240 Dec 17th. Ruan Lanihorne: 128 Jan 15th, 270 Dec 17th. Colliford Res: 267 Jan 16th, 334 Dec 16th. Camel Est: 110 Jan 19th to 24th. 303 Dec 15th.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at the principal localities - 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 1816 574 71 - 449 1707 2426 3481 Hayle Est. 230 187 46 - 270 825 1100 1248 Stithians Res. 226 12 5 - 26 - - 222 Ruan Lanihorne 128 18 - - 24 105 114 270 Camel Est. 110 4 - - 4 12 107 303 Colliford Res. 267 8 1 - 0 1 169 334 Tarnar Est. 80 2 2 - - 31 62 117 Lynher Est. 614 284 14 - 110 640 834 884 GADWALL - Anas strepera Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although less numerous in mild winters, the species has become more regular at several localities over the last fifteen years. Top sites are Marazion Marsh, Loe Pool, Par Beach Pool and Upper Tamar Reservoir, although Drift Reservoir holds the record single day count. First winter numbers were the lowest since 1984 and second winter numbers the lowest since 1986. None was noted in spring but there was six early in autumn. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Marazion: 16 Jan 1st, 13 Jan 2nd. Three Nov 4th, increasing to eight Nov 17th and 11 Dec 11th. Par: five from 1989 to Jan 15th, then reducing to two Mar 31st with one remaining throughout the year again. Two Oct 11th increasing to five Oct 24th which stayed into 1991. Tamar Est: noted until Feb 22nd with max of five Jan 11th to Feb 6th and from Nov 1st with max of two. Loe Pool: drake Jan 2nd. Five Oct 21st, six Dec 6th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: seven Jan 28th, four Feb 15th. Crowan Res: three Jan 29th to Feb 2nd. Upper Tamar Res: one Feb 10th, three Aug 13th and four Oct 16th. Stithians Res: two Jul 31st. Hayle Est: one Aug 10th, two Sept 17th to 24th, then regular Nov 8th to Dec 17th with max of five Nov 29th. Crowdy Res: four Jan 29th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there was one at Drift Res., Jan 7th and two in Carbis Bay Jan 16th, whilst the second winter period produced two at Ruan Lanihorne Oct 26th and singles there Nov 1st and Dec 23rd, one at Lynher Est., Oct 27th, one at St Johns Lake Oct 28th, two at Colliford Res., Nov 2nd and two at Siblyback Res., Nov 24th, with one there Dec 23rd.

TEAL - Anas crecca Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeding has been proved only sporadically over the last twenty years and all records apart from one at Lamorran in 1970, have emanated from Bodmin Moor, with Crowdy Reservoir the most regular site. Breeding was not proven at any site this year, although seven pairs were present at Colliford Res. Apr 23rd and four birds were still in evidence there Jun 17th. First winter flocks had increased since December 1989 and were about the norm, but spring passage was negligible. The first in autumn was one at Hayle Est., Jul 23rd followed by one at Stithians Res., the next day. Small parties were noted at several localities during the first two weeks of September and wintering flocks started to

41 arrive later in the month. Second winter flocks were surprisingly numerous, with perhaps twice as many birds as normal present. Maximum numbers: Lynher Est: 220 Jan 4th. 230 February. 391 December. (The largest concentration ever here). Tamar Est: 121 January. 257 December. Millbrook Lake: 91 January. 76 Dec 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: 250 Jan 4th (The largest count of the decade here, and presumably the Devoran flock of December 1989). 107 Sept 27th. Stithians Res: 237 Jan 15th. 245 Dec 14th. (The third largest count ever here). Marazion Marsh: 75 Jan 12th. 200 Dec 11th. Truro River: 209 Jan 16th. 128 Oct 20th. 300 Dec 1st. Hayle Est: 365 Jan 14th. 200 Oct 8th to Nov 8th. 450 Dec 10th. Crowdy Res: 200 Jan 14th. 150 Dec 2nd. 311 Dec 16th. (The second highest count ever here). Maer Lake: 165 Jan 29th. 100 Dec 29th. Upper Tamar Res: 150 Feb 10th. 100 Dec 3rd. Colliford Res: 136 Mar 11th. 193 Dec 16th. Polhawn, Whitsand Bay: 115 on sea in mist Mar 31st. Drift Res: 130 Oct 10th. Devoran: 330 Nov 18th (the second highest count ever here).

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts aJat nth e principaFeb Mal localitier Aprs - 199Sep0 Oct Nov Dec Monthly total 1561 506 264 - 303 448 1182 1982 Marazion 21 4 - - 1 3 60 200 Hayle Est. 285 147 20 - 73 101 387 346 Stithians Res. 237 12 - - 40 25 6 140 Devoran - - - - 90 - 330 - Truro River 209 34 52 - 38 44 155 96 Crowdy Res. 201 - 2 - - 43 6 311 Colliford Res. 22 13 136 - 30 28 14 53 Tamar Est. 121 50 - - 3 6 6 179 Lynher Est. 101 53 22 - 7 61 79 391 GREEN-WINGED TEAL - Anas crecca carolinensis Annual vagrant. The North American race of Teal, drakes of which are readily separable from the nominate race. Copperhouse Creek, Hayle Est: drake Feb 12th to 15th. DSF.LPW. et al. Accepted by BBRC. The county mainland total moves to c.33 occurrences (involving at least 25 individuals) since 1962. Monthly breakdown: Jan - five, Feb - three, Mar - three, Apr - two, May - one, Oct - seven, Nov - four, Dec - eight. Top sites: Hayle Est. - nine, Stithians Res. - five, Marazion - four.

MALLARD - Anas platyrhynchos Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Feral release for wildfowling purposes at a number of sites. Breeding was reported from Lynher Est., Millbrook, Mount Edgcumbe, Looe, Colliford Res., Upper Fowey Valley, Butter Tor Marsh, Maer Lake, Polmorla, Newquay, St Blazey, Par, Truro, Gwithian, Marazion and Froe Creek. First winter flocks were about the average of recent years but interestingly all of the highest counts came from the east of the county. Second winter concentrations were smaller. Maximum numbers: Tamar Est: 148 January. 249 October. 151 December.

42 Lynher Est: 152 January. 218 September. 131 December. Crowdy Res: 91 Jan 3rd. 206 Sept 1st. 100 Dec 2nd. Upper Tamar Res: 162 Jan 3rd. 270 Oct 16th. Siblyback Res: 86 January. Camel Est: 64 Jan 7th to 16th. 93 Nov 5th. Colliford Res: 66 Jan 14th. 164 August. Tresillian: 77 Jan 14th. Porth Res: 166 Aug 28th. (The second highest count ever here). Par: 103 February, 165 December. Loe Pool: 191 Oct 9th.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1990 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Monthly total 1142 635 360 133 113 200 98 316 1197 1381 898 1151 Loe Pool 12 18 10 21 144 98 72 Tresillian 73 35 8 18 19 10 4 2 34 60 34 22 Truro River 21 59 45 11 2 37 _ 22 43 37 30 37 Camel Est. 42 6 9 2 4 _ _ 71 37 32 45 Par Pools 96 103 39 - 108 121 109 165 Crowdy Res. 83 2 2 82 118 17 50 Colliford Res. 66 6 43 62 51 21 44 Tamar Est. 148 57 33 15 17 51 25 105 144 249 172 151 Lynher Est. 149 116 24 35 17 47 29 162 216 152 70 131 St Johns Lake 55 55 23 27 21 20 7 - 32 75 30 17 PINTAIL - Anas acuta Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Apart from feral birds the species has bred only once in Cornwall, in 1978. There has been a substantial reduction in the number of birds wintering in the county in recent years. With the exception of the regular flock at Lynher Est. it was the poorest first winter ever. Only one was observed in spring, but autumn passage, which commenced with one at Lynher Est. Aug 24th, was outstanding. Heaviest passage was noted Oct 13th to 31st. However, very few remained to overwinter. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Lynher Est: 25 January, seven February, one Mar 14th, One Aug 24th, nine October, 18 November and 24 December. Camel Est: female Jan 7th, drake Jan 14th, 13 Nov 15th, drake Dec 16th. Upper Tamar Res: female Jan 3rd, nine Oct 16th. Par: drake Mar 31st, two females Dec 1st into 1991. Hayle Est: regular Sept 13th to Dec 10th with max of 12 Oct 22nd. College Res: three Oct 15th/16th. St Ives: two Oct 7th, 27 Oct 31st - all west. Trevose Head: seven Oct 13th, three Oct 21st - all west. Pendeen: 25 west Oct 31st. Porthgwarra: five north Oct 22nd. St Johns Lake: four Dec 29th. No others were reported in the first half of the year, but later there was two at Stithians Res. Sept 13th, two southwest at Sennen Oct 18th, one at Gannel Est. Oct 25th, a female at Loe Pool Dec 6th and three at Marazion Dec 11th. GARGANEY - Anas querquedula

Scarce passage migrant with numbers fluctuating from year to year. Has bred on at least six occasions including three successive years 1981/3. Marazion: seven (four drakes) Mar 11th, with a pair to 21st. EJC.JH.BP.JFR. MS.JW. et al. Drake Apr 24th. RJH.BP.MS. Loe Pool: pair Mar 12th to the end of April SB.RJH.ARP.

43 Lower Tamar Lake: pair Mar 16th. FAD. Bude Marshes: drake Mar 19th to 26th. IK. Stithians Res: drake Mar 30th to Apr 4th, drake May 4th, two drakes May 11th. EGe.DSF.JCLG.FHH. et al. Two Aug 9th to 18th, three 19th to 21st and one to 27th. JH.SMC.DL. et al. Gunwalloe: drake Apr 1st. SB.MS. Three (two drakes) May 28th. SB. Drift Res: drake May 4th/5th. JFR.MS. Juvenile Aug 19th. DEB. The best spring passage since 1973 and an average autumn. The seven at Marazion is the largest party in the county since 1984. The county mainland total advances to c.617 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Feb - two, Mar - 231 (37%), Apr - 161 (26%), May - 58, Jun - 11, Jul - 30, Aug - 87, Sept - 24, Oct - ten, Nov - one, Dec - two. The Gunwalloe birds are the first there since 1978. Top sites: Marazion - 244 (40%), Stithians Res. - 61, Par - 37, Hayle Kimbro Pool - 36 and Tamar Lakes - 34.

BLUE-WINGED TEAL - Anas discors Rare vagrant. 1988

The Penhale bird has been accepted by BBRC.

SHOVELER - Anas clypeata Winter visitor. Scarce passage migrant. Numbers wintering in the county have declined by at least 60% since the 1970's. Top sites are Marazion Marsh, Loe Pool and Par Beach Pool. The decline continues. The first winter and spring total was the lowest for at least 25 years and with the exception of the Marazion flock there was very few in the second winter period. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Marazion: six Jan 1st, nine Jan 12th, one or two Mar 23rd to Apr 8th and one to the end of June. Noted from Nov 17th into 1991 with max of 21 Dec 6th. Par: male Jan 15th to Feb 3rd and a female Dec 17th. (The poorest totals here for at least twenty years). Maer Lake: eight Jan 27th, one Mar 12th. Pair Dec 2nd, drake Dec 29th. Tamar Lakes: pair Mar 24th to Apr 12th, two Dec 2nd, four Dec 30th. Tamar Est: 11 Apr 8th. Stithians Res: drake May 8th, two Sept 13th and Oct 8th. Loe Pool: noted Sept 29th to Dec 14th with max of six Oct 25th and Dec 6th. Camel Est: drake Oct 21st, six Nov 28th, five to Dec 6th. Lynher Est: drake Dec 9th to 15th, four Dec 22nd. There was no more than three at any other site in the first half of the year and no more than two at any other locality later in the year. POCHARD - Aythya ferina Winter visitor. Passage migrant. May have bred at Crowdy Reservoir in 1977. There was a small increase on the low numbers reported in December 1989 but second winter flocks were again disappointing. A female summered at Par, otherwise the last in spring was one at Upper Tamar Res. Apr 18th and the first in autumn were two flying east at Rame Head Jul 14th. Maximum numbers: Upper Tamar Res: 61 Jan 31st. 71 Dec 31st. Loe Pool: 110 January. 68 Dec 6th. Colliford Res: 96 January. 33 Sept 16th. Dozmary Pool: 36 January. 42 Oct 28th. Siblyback Res: 27 Jan 18th. 51 Oct 16th. Par: 36 Jan 22nd to 24th. 21 Dec 22nd. 44 Argal Res: 25 Nov 30th. No other site attracted more than five in either winter period. Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at the principal localities - 1990 Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 257 173 37 - 56 98 126 131 Loe Pool 110 56 18 - 20 30 36 52 Colliford Res. 60 61 9 - 33 5 27 11 Dozmary Pool 5 20 5 - - 51 22 6 RING-NECKED DUCK - Aythya collaris Annual vagrant. Drift Res: drake from 1989 to Feb 19th and Mar 4th/5th. SMC.JC.JH.JFR. et al. Long Rock Pool: same bird Jan 20th and Feb 20th. JFR. et al. Drake Dec 4th, two drakes Dec 5th into 1991. JFR.MS. et al. Loe Pool: drake from Drift Jan 22nd and Feb 22nd to Mar 26th. JFR.SB. et al. Drake and juvenile Sept 29th to Oct 19th, with drake to Oct 23rd. JFR.SB.RB. et al. Two drakes Nov 18th to Dec 1st, with one to Dec 6th. (Presumed same as Long Rock birds). Stithians Res: first winter Sept 24th to 27th. JFR.FHH. et al. Female Sept 26th. DL.JMW. All accepted by BBRC. As always with this species, the records are difficult to evaluate. The first winter records obviously refer to the same individual. What was presumably the same bird returned to Loe Pool in September. Assuming that five new birds arrived in autumn and the second winter period, the county mainland total moves to c.35 - all since 1976. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 11, Feb - one, Apr - one, Sept - four, Oct - nine, Nov - five and Dec - four. Top sites: Stithians Res. - 11, Drift Res. - six, Tamar Est. and Loe Pool - four. TUFTED DUCK - Aythya fuligula Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeds almost annually at Crowdy Reservoir but only occasionally elsewhere. Breeding was not proven anywhere this year although small numbers were present at both Colliford and Crowan reservoirs during the summer months. Despite average numbers being reported late in 1989, parties in the first winter period were much reduced and were the smallest since 1984. Once again, second winter flocks were about the average of recent years. Maximum numbers: Loe Pool: 68 Jan 13th. 62 Dec 6th. Siblyback Res: 33 January. 18 Nov/Dec. Swanpool: 53 February. 52 Dec 14th. Upper Tamar Res: 15 Feb 10th. 60 Dec 13th. Argal Res: 43 January. 55 December. Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at the principal localities - 1990.

Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec Monthly total 248 180 130 - 72 84 148 257 Loe Pool 34 32 24 - 49 36 49 56 Argal Res. 43 23 38 - 12 26 35 55 Swanpool 52 53 8 - - - 18 49

45 SCAUP - Aythya marila Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Lynher Est: drake from 1989 to Jan 1st. RWG. St Johns Lake: drake Jan 1st RWG (presumably one of the Lynher birds of Dec 30th 1989). Loe Pool: drake from 1989 to Jan 16th. GRW.MW. et at. Camel Est: drake Jan 16th. HM. Drift Res: imm drake Oct 8th. DJC. Dozmary Pool: female Nov 16th to Dec 2nd. PE.EJW.RWG. et al. Argal Res: female Dec 2nd. GHT. Stithians Res: female Dec 16th. DL. The poorest first winter since 1978 and the poorest second winter since 1967. EIDER - Somateria mollissima Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. A few summer. Annual since 1952, prior to which birds were reported in only seven years 1931 — 1951 and a mere eight records pre-1900. Several overwintered from 1989 but there were few new arrivals in either winter period. St Johns Lake: one from 1989 to Jan 6th. Looe: one from 1989 to Mar 31st. Carrick Roads: one from 1989 to Jan 1st. Helford Est: three from 1989 were joined by another Jan 1st. All four stayed to Feb 2nd with three Feb 3rd. Loe Bar: three from 1989 to Jan 1st. Mounts Bay: drake from 1989 to Apr 4th, female Jan 11th to Feb 22nd. Female Dec 7th to 13th. Godrevy: one from 1989 to May 4th. Newquay: one from 1989 to Feb 28th. Bude: three from 1989 to Mar 28th. Camel Est: drake Jan 7th, female Jan 20th to Apr 7th. Drake Dec 30th. St Ives: one Jan 28th to Feb 14th. Female Dec 2nd and 27th/28th. Maenporth: female Jan 30th. Mevagissey: drake Feb 19th to Mar 9th, four flew southwest Jun 25th. Tintagel: drake May 7th. St Austell Bay: single females Jul 11th and Nov 24th. Rumps Point: two (one drake) west Nov 5th. Poldhu: two Dec ,9th. Whitsand Bay: two females Dec 23rd. LONG-TAILED DUCK - Clangula hyemalis

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Annual since 1962. Par: drake Oct 8th to 13th. RL. et al. Crowdy Res: drake Oct 17th. GW. Millbrook: one Nov 6th to 10th. DIPB.RWG. Sennen: two Dec 5th to 18th. JFR. The county mainland total advances to c.351 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 51, Feb - 28, Mar - 44, Apr - 14, May - four, Jun - three, Jul, Aug and Sept - one each, Oct - 35, Nov - 91, Dec - 78. Top sites: Sennen - 75, Mounts Bay - 56, Loe Pool - 21, St Ives - 20, Hayle Est. - 15 and Camel Est. - 13.

46 COMMON SCOTER - Melanitta nigra

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A few summer. Small numbers may be seen almost anywhere around the Cornish coast, but larger parties often congregate in Whitsand Bay, St Austell Bay, Veryan/Gerrans Bay and Mounts Bay. An exceptional year with three large flocks remaining from 1989, a few off the south coast in spring and summer and a pronounced movement off the north coast in autumn. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Austell: noted in every month. 125 in December 1989 had decreased to 55 Jan 1st. Numbers gradually reduced to one Feb 1st. Up to seven were noted to Jun 1st and then none until the first return birds Jul 3rd. Birds were regular to the end of the year with max of 25 Sept 27th and 70 Dec 10th. Whitsand Bay: 100 in December 1989 had decreased to 80 Jan 1st and 25 Jan 28th. In the second winter there was max of 96 Nov 10th but only 20 Dec 23rd. Mounts Bay: 30 Jan 1st then low numbers to Apr 2nd (ten). 11 Jun 23rd, then noted from Oct 28th with max of 62 first date and Dec 1st. Rame Head: 41 east and 54 west between Mar 18th and Nov 8th with max of 26 Mar 31st, 24 Jun 29th and 20 Oct 9th. Mevagissey: 62 west between Jun 25th and Aug 15th with max of 30 first date. St Ives: c.605 west between Jul 21st and Dec 18th with max of 180 Oct 26th and 240 Nov 24th. (The second highest count ever in the county). Pendeen: c.101 west between Aug 17th and Oct 31st with max of 73 Oct 27th. Sennen: 35 west Oct 24th. Reports were received for 13 other localities during the year, but none concerned more than 20 birds together at any one time.

VELVET SCOTER - Melanitta fusca Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1965. Camel Est: immature drake Nov 15th to 28th. HM. et al. Tamar Est: drake Dec 1st. REW. St Austell Bay: female from Dec 8th was joined by another Dec 24th. Both remained into 1991. RL. et al. Rumps Point: female flew west Dec 27th. EG. St Ives: female flew west Dec 27th. DSF.JH.MS. The first year since 1978 lacking a bird in the first half of the year. The county mainland total advances to c.349 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 44, Feb - 73, Mar - 23, Apr - 12, May - two, Aug - one, Sept - one, Oct - 34, Nov - 95, Dec - 64. The Rumps Point bird is the first there since 1964 and the Camel Est. bird the first there since 1983. Top sites: St Ives - 78, Falmouth Bay/Carrick Roads - 41, Mounts Bay - 35, Rumps Point - 25, Helford Est. 24 and Whitsand Bay - 23.

GOLDENEYE - Bucephala clangula

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Small numbers appear on all of the county's reservoirs at one time or another, but by far the largest flock gathers in Carrick Roads. Numbers visiting the county have declined inexplicably by about 60% since the 1970's. Once again, with the exception of the Carrick Roads flock there were no reports of significant numbers in either winter period. Maximum numbers: Carrick Roads: noted until Feb 3rd with max of 14 Jan 8th. 21 Dec 24th, 35 Dec 31st. Loe Pool: six Jan 13th and four Dec 1st.

47 Hayle Est: six Jan 30th and three Dec 30th. Camel Est: six Mar 4th and three Nov 28th into 1991. Upper Tamar Res: six Feb 18th and three Dec 13th. Colliford Res: seven Mar 11th and Dec 16th. Stithians Res: eight Nov 29th. Several sites attracted birds in both winter periods but never more than three together. A drake which summered at Colliford Res. was most unusual. SMEW - Mergus albellus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Apart from 1989, annual since 1973. Crowdy Res: redhead Nov 28th to Dec 16th. SMC.EJC.EG. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.276 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 137 (50%), Feb - 74 (27%), Mar - 20, Apr - two, Oct - one, Nov - ten, Dec - 31. This is the first at Crowdy since 1985. Top sites: Siblyback Res. - 72, Camel Est. - 30, Colliford Res. and Tamar Est. - 26 each.

Smew Ken Evans

RED BREASTED MERGANSER - Mergus serrator Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. Rare inland. Approximately 60% of the annual county total is recorded at Carrick Roads where birds gather to roost off Turnaware Point and Loe Beach. At dawn they disperse to feed throughout the Fal Estuary complex. With the exception of the regular Carrick Roads and St Johns Lake flocks, very few were reported. Spring passage was almost non-existent with the last a female west at Morvah May 19th. The first autumn bird was a male flying west at Rame Head Oct 21st. Singles were also noted on sea-watches at Pendeen, St Ives, Sennen, Godrevy and Pentire Point over the next two weeks but otherwise birds were slow to arrive. Largest flocks, not unexpectedly, were encountered during December. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Carrick Roads: noted until Mar 31st with max of 51 Jan 28th and from Nov 4th with max of 65 Dec 31st. Stragglers from the main flock included ten at Percuil Jan 8th 48 and Mar 12th and 13 at Devoran Feb 18th. St Johns Lake: noted until Mar 16th with max of 14 Jan 13th and from Oct 28th with max of 15 Dec 15th to 30th. Lynher Est: noted Feb 3rd to Mar 25th with max of 14 in March and from Oct 24th with a max of 14 in December (presumably the same birds as those at St Johns Lake). Tamar Est: one Feb 2nd to Mar 11th and five Dec 29th. No other site attracted more than a singleton in either winter period.

GOOSANDER - Mergus merganser Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. The species has become increasingly common in Cornwall in recent years and is a potential breeding species, particularly since a few pairs now nest annually in Devon. Crowdy Res: noted until Mar 12th with a max of ten (five drakes) Jan 3rd. SMC.EJC.BTC. et al. and from Nov 27th (four) to the end of the year with a max of seven (two drakes) Dec 15th. BTC.ML. et al. Siblyback Res: noted until Jan 28th with max of seven (four drakes) Jan 20th and from Dec 9th (one) with a max of five (two drakes) Dec 15th. GDL.DEB.DAC.EJC.RJL. et al. Drift Res: two brownheads Jan 12th SMC.TMC. et al. one brownhead Nov 11th to Dec 17th, another Nov 19th to 24th. DSF.JFR. Dozmary Pool: drake Jan 18th RDP and three drakes Dec 27th. per CFNHC. Bude: one flew in off the sea Feb 23rd. IK. Devoran: two brownheads Feb 25th. JHWW. Colliford Res: two drakes Mar 14th and a brownhead Nov 24th. DIJ.RWG. Bussow Res: brownhead Nov 11th. DSF. Par: brownhead Nov 27th into 1991. RL.LAS.FMS. Tamar Est: two brownheads Nov 28th/29th. PJR. Hayle Est: drake Dec 14th into 1991. DSF. et al. St Ives: drake west Dec 15th. MS. Typically, these records are difficult to assess, especially on Bodmin Moor where birds peregrinate from site to site. It is possible that only ten birds were involved in the moorland sightings in the first winter, but they are all treated as different here. The county mainland total advances to c.746. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 363 (49%), Feb - 64, Mar - 52, Apr - 15, May - three, Oct - 13, Nov - 83, Dec - 153 (21%). Top sites: Crowdy Res. - 96, Siblyback Res. - 67, Camel Est. - 61, Drift Res. - 49, Dozmary Pool - 46, Hayle Est. - 45, Stithians Res. - 42 and Loe Pool - 40.

RUDDY DUCK - Oxyura jamaicensis Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1977. Loe Pool: four females or immatures Oct 8th. AH. The county mainland total moves to c.89. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 35, Feb - 17, Mar - two, Jul - one, Sept - three, Oct - 13, Nov - 17, Dec - one. Top sites: Loe Pool - 23, Stithians Res. - 22, Drift Res. - seven, Siblyback Res. - six, Marazion - five. HONEY BUZZARD - Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant. Breeding has occurred annually in Devon since 1979 and could conceivably occur in Cornwall in the near future. Mullion: one flew east May 20th. ARP. Dunmere: one Jun 27th. GJC.

49 Skewjack: one Sept 23rd. DL.MS. Boswednack: one Sept 27th. EGG.GGG. Other reports received lacked conclusive detail. Fairly typical set of records - these four take the county mainland total to c.69 - all but nine since 1972. Birds have occurred in every month from April to December with breakdown as follows: Apr - six, May - 13, Jun - four, Jul - three, Aug - four, Sept - 16, Oct - 17, Dec - one and five not dated. Top sites are Hayle - eight, Porthgwarra and Rame Head - six and Perranporth - five.

BLACK KITE - Milvus migrans

Rare vagrant. The species has been increasing in recent years in N.W. Europe and this is reflected in more frequent sightings in the U.K. It is anticipated that this trend will continue. Buryas Bridge: one Oct 2nd to Nov 17th. JFR.MPS. et al. This bird wandered widely over the Lands End peninsula and was noted at various localities during its long stay. The fifth county mainland record - all since 1975 and all in west Cornwall. Accepted by BBRC.

RED KITE - Milvus milvus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. There are various ancient claims of breeding in Cornwall but none is considered fully authenticated. Rumours have persisted in recent years of birds summering in apparently suitable habitat and the possibility of breeding in the future should not be overlooked. Siblyback: the bird present since July 1988 was last noted Mar 14th. DAC. et al. (This bird was ringed as a chick near Gwenffrwd Reserve, mid Wales in 1988. It left the breeding area soon after fledging. Studies of wing-tagged birds show a marked dispersal of first year birds in autumn, with reports from S.W. Scotland, West Midlands, Wiltshire, Oxford and Kent. This was the first from S.W. England. Peter Davis (Kite Study Group) per SCM. Portscatho: one from December 1989 to Jan 16th. GCJ.JAJ. St Buryan: one with orange wing tags Apr 21st. RW. Holmans Moor: one with red wing tags Apr 27th. NB.DSF.VAS. Godolphin Cross: one flew northwest Nov 5th. RBH. The three news birds this year take the county mainland total to c.74 since 1952, prior to which data is very sketchy. Birds have arrived in every month of the year, but apart from 19 in October and ten in March there is no noticeable pattern to the records. Top sites are Porthgwarra - eight, Nanquidno, Siblyback and Lizard - all three. MARSH HARRIER - Circus aeruginosus Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Crowdy Res: female/immature from 1989 to Feb 18th. AMJD.ACS. et al. immature male Nov 18th to Dec 16th, immature female Dec 2nd to 9th. BTC. et al. Gunwalloe: female/immature Jan 22nd. SB. Male Apr 4th. SB.ARP. Colliford Res: female/immature Feb 16th. RWG., another May 6th and 12th. EJW. et al. Male Nov 11th. RWG. Butter Tor Marsh: female May 7th to 9th was joined by an immature May 9th. DAC.IMEC.GJC. Trevail: female flew east Apr 30th. DSF.VAS. Assuming that the Crowdy and Colliford first winter period bird, the male at the same sites in November and the Colliford and Butter Tor birds were the same individuals, the county mainland total advances to c.83 since 1930. The Gunwalloe January bird was the first ever arrival in that month. Peak months are May - 18, Apr - 11 and March - nine, in spring and Sept - 15 and Oct - 12 in autumn. Top sites are Marazion - 19, Porthgwarra - seven, Skewjack - five and Gunwalloe - four.

HEN HARRIER - Circus cyaneus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. There are four main wintering areas in the county. On the mid-Cornwall moors and West Penwith moors the roost sites are well known and documented, but the Lizard peninsula and Bodmin Moor roost sites have attracted less attention. Bodmin Moor: After none in either winter period in 1989 it was not surprising that the only record in the first winter period this year was a female at Colliford Reservoir Mar 8th. In Autumn a ringtail was first noted at Crowdy Res., Oct 17th. A series of records then followed probably involving the same bird at Crowdy, Colliford, Rough Tor, De Lank and Dozmary Pool. A male was seen at De Lank Dec 14th and presumably the same bird was at Crowdy Dec 30th. Mid-Cornwall Moors: Eight, including five males overwintered from 1989 and were noted entering the Tregonetha roost until Jan 10th. Birds gradually departed, with seven to Feb 12th, six to Feb 25th, five to Mar 5th and the last - a female Mar 22nd. A male and a female returned Oct 24th. There was a steady increase to a maximum of seven, including five males from Dec 20th into 1991. Sightings of single ringtails probably associated with the roost were made at Rosenannon Jan 13th, near Padstow Mar 17th, Coswarth Mar 31st and St Breoke Downs Dec 22nd. Interestingly, despite the prevalence of males at Tregonetha, none was reported away from the roost. West Penwith Moors: The male noted in December 1989 apparently failed to overwinter. A male at Trevorrian Mar 21st and at St Levan the following day and a ringtail at Treveal Apr 28th/29th were both thought to be spring migrants. In autumn a large female was noted at Porthgwarra and Lands End Oct 22nd. Another ringtail was observed at Porthgwarra Nov 5th whilst a male was at Morvah the same day. Finally, a ringtail was at Boswednack Nov 13th. There was no information from the Trewey Common roost. Lizard peninsula: A ringtail was first noted at Croft Pascoe and was later joined by a second, the two being involved in a number of sightings in the Mullion - Kynance - Goonhilly area until Apr 29th. In the second winter period a ringtail was noted at Croft Pascoe Dec 9th and a male was at the same location Dec 14th. Elsewhere there was a ringtail at Sithney Jan 1st, a ringtail flew south at Penlee Point Oct 28th and a ringtail was seen at Lower Tamar Lake Dec 2nd. Correction to 1989 Report. The entry under Mid-Cornwall Moors dated 1987 .... should read 1986 Seven (four males) Jan 2nd and six (four males) Mar 16th at the roost. MONTAGU'S HARRIER - Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant. Formerly bred regularly, but not since 1975. A small recent increase in the U.K. breeding population may augur well for the 51 future locally. Foage Valley, Zennor: ringtail Apr 29th. DSF.VAS. Goonhilly: ringtail May 22nd. RJH.ARP. Kit Hill: ringtail Aug 1st. IG.GDe. Colliford Res: juvenile Aug 26th. EJW. Nanquidno: juvenile Sept 1st. RJH. et al. A typical set of records.

GOSHAWK - Accipiter gentilis

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. A few pairs breed annually in Devon and odd pairs may breed unnoticed, or unrecorded in Cornwall. Halvana: female Apr 23rd. DAC. Drift Res: adult male Sept 11th. MS. Penberth: male Nov 3rd. JRMcC.JMW. The county mainland total moves to c.63. Peak months are September - ten, October - nine and April - eight. Top sites are Porthgwarra with ten and Davidstow/Crowdy - four.

Goshawk James McCallum

SPARROWHAWK - Accipiter nisus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. No change in status was reported. Records were received from 64 localities including 26 in the breeding season. The species was well distributed in most parts of the county but the majority of sightings in the Penwith district apparently related to autumn migrants. Autumn passage was noted from Sept 6th to Oct 23rd and apart from reports of ones and twos there was six at Sennen Oct 17th and three at Mawgan Porth Oct 23rd. Of particular interest was a very large female accipiter at Predannack Sept 6th to 24th which was considered by some observers to be a Goshawk but another observer thought that it was the present species.

52 BUZZARD - Buieo buteo Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Fewer reports were received this year but there was no indication of any change in status - it remains the most common raptor in all parts of the county. There were significant increases in the number of birds reported in mid-March and again during Sept/Oct - no doubt reflecting the little-recorded passage of migrants through the county. Maximum numbers included the following: St Mawgan: ten Mar 12th. St Mabyn: ten Mar 16th. North Hill: nine Apr 12th. Trevorrian: 16 Sept 9th. Porthgwarra: a group of ten drifted slowly south over the valley Oct 8th. Mawgan Porth: a group of eight in the air together, accompanied by three Sparrowhawks, four Kestrels, an adult Hobby and an adult Peregrine. ABR. Another, smaller passage of migrants occurred early in November when two flew east at Rame Head on 4th, seven flew over Porthgwarra on 5th and a singleton flew south over Trevose Head on 7th. Unusual was a cliff nest at Delabole - the first such report for many years. DLo.

OSPREY - Pandion haliaetus Scarce passage migrant. Winnards Perch: one sat in a field eating a trout May 3rd. SMC.MB. Maker Heights: one May 5th. IB. St Johns Lake: one May 13th. JJ. Camel Est: one May 27th. JH. Rame Head: one Jun 10th. EG. Hayle Est: one Jul 26th; DSF. Stithians Res: one Aug 7th to 10th, two Aug 20th to 22nd and one to 26th. RM.FHH. et al. Ruan Lanihorne: one Aug 8th to 20th, two Aug 27th/28th. GCJ.GHT.REW. et al. Lynher Est: singles Aug 14th per BL and Sept 7thEG. Tresillian: one Aug 24th. RW. Tamar Est: one Sept 2nd to 7th. PE.RS. et al. Gwithian: one flew south Sept 2nd. PAR. Goonhilly: one Sept 9th. ARP.SB.RB. et al. Porth Res: one Sept 29th/30th. SMC.LW. et al. There is undoubtedly some duplication as birds move from site to site, but with a possible maximum of five in spring and twelve in autumn, 1990 proved the best year for the species since at least 1930. The county mainland total advances to c.153 since 1930, prior to which data is very sketchy. Monthly breakdown: Mar - three, Apr - 18, May - 25, June - five, July - eight, Aug -41, Sept - 45, Oct - seven and Nov - one. Top sites are Camel Est. - 30, Ruan Lanihorne - 17, Tamar Est. - 12, Hayle Est - eight and Lynher Est. - seven.

KESTREL - Falco tinnunculus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. ARP, in response to earlier comments relating to a possible decrease, reports that the species may have delined somewhat in the Lizard area over the last five years, whilst FHCK reports fewer seen at Bude. LSP considers that status has been maintained in the Roseland district and JSH noted it as regular on farm and woodland around North Hill. Several observers report the Kestrel as common, but despite this records were received from a mere 48 localities this year.

53 Apparent migrants were reported from mid-September to late October. Sightings included a total of 14 in the Porthgwarra/Lands End area Sept 15th, three flying south out to sea at Porthgwarra Oct 22nd and one flying south out to sea at Lands End Oct 23rd, followed by five south there Oct 24th.

RED-FOOTED FALCON - Falco vespertinus

Rare vagrant. Croft Pascoe: female May 27th/28th. RW. et al. The 12th county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC. Recorded at this particular site for the third year in succession and the fourth overall. Monthly breakdown: May - six, June - two, Sept - one, Oct - one, Nov - two. MERLIN - Falco columbarius Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred at Perranporth in 1954. 1990 proved to be a record-breaking year with the highest ever first winter, autumn and second winter totals plus the second highest spring passage ever. The exceptional number of birds recorded in December 1989 was maintained and gradually increased as the winter progressed. 19 birds were noted during January and at least four new arrivals were observed during February. At Tregonetha a total of three different birds (two females and one male) was noted, but all other reports concerned single birds. Of these, one was noted until Apr 6th at Tregardock, one remained in the Mullion area Jan 15th to 24th, one was at Dozmary Pool Jan 13th and Feb 22nd and one was at St Just Jan 20th and Feb 24th. The remainder were all single day sightings. Spring passage apparently commenced with a male at Lizard Mar 8th and ended with one at Trevose Head May 5th. A total of 13 birds was reported, including two singles at St Just and two singles at Lizard. The first in autumn was near Kynance Sept 7th followed by one at Gwithian Sept 10th. There was then a two week lull before the main passage commenced. Of the total of c.55 birds at 35 sites, almost half arrived Oct 7th to 18th and the vast majority moved quickly through. 25 of the sightings derived from the Lands End peninsula but only five from the Lizard peninsula. The residue were widely scattered throughout the county. Apart from single day sightings, more regular observations were noted at: Near Kynance: singles Sept 26th, Oct 12th and Oct 29th. Sennen: one Oct 3rd, two Oct 10th to 22nd and one Oct 30th to Nov 10th. Pendeen: singles Oct 7th and Oct 27th. Porthgwarra: at least four birds involved in a complex series of sightings Oct 8th to Nov 5th, including three different birds Oct 22nd. Redruth: singles Oct 9th and Oct 27th. Treen: singles Oct 10th and Oct 24th/25th. Rame Head: singles Oct 12th, 21st and 28th to Nov 3rd. Loe Pool: female Oct 20th, male Nov 16th, two Nov 27th. Tregonetha: female Oct 20th, male Oct 27th, two Nov 10th, three (two males) Nov 25th. 17 birds were reported during December - all were singles except for a total of five different birds roosting at Tregonetha.

HOBBY - Falco subbuteo Scarce passage migrant (increasing). Occasionally breeds in the East of the county. Marazion: one Apr 3rd. BP.MS. Boscarne, Bodmin: one Apr 23rd. GJC. Lizard Downs: singles many dates Apr 29th to May 22nd, two May 23rd with one to May 28th (possibly 4/5 birds involved). SB.BC.ARP. et al. Loe Pool: singles Apr 30th and Jun 16th. SB. Kilmar Tor: one May 3rd. JSH. Trevose Head: one May 19th PAM, juvenile Sept 10th to 16th, adult Oct 13th/14th. SMC.PAM.ABR.RS. et al. Launceston: one May 20th. AMJD. St Just: one May 20th. BKM. Bodmin Moor (locality withheld): may have bred, one May 20th, two Aug 8th, three (one juvenile) Sept 1st to 16th. JSH. Camborne: one Jun 5th. BKM. Halt on Quay: one Jun 10th. JMC. Kennards House: one Jun 15th. BTC. Towednack: one Jun 15th. MJR. Colliford Res: one Jul 1st. GHT. Crafthole: adult Jul 2nd and 18th. SCM.PSM. North Hill: one Jul 8th. BTC. Penzance: one Jul 17th. JFR. Tregantle: one Aug 4th EJW. Kenidjack: singles Aug 24th RJH and Oct 22nd ARB. Treveal: juvenile Aug 24th. SGR. Par: two hunting and killing Swallows Aug 29th. EMC.SMC. St Mawgan: one flew south Aug 31st. SMC. Saltash: one Sept 15th. EG. Crowdy Res: juvenile Sept 16th. RWW. Rame Head: singles Sept 23rd DE and Oct 7th RWG. Mawgan Porth: juvenile Oct 1st, adult Oct 20th. ABR. St Levan: juvenile Oct 13th. DAC.GJC. Near Wadebridge: adult Oct 15th. RS. Rosemullion Head: juvenile Oct 15th. BC. Porthgwarra: juvenile Oct 18th. SMC.ABR. et al. Lands End: juvenile Oct 21st/22nd. MJC.CAO.GCS. et al. With a potential total of 43 birds involved, 1990 proved to be a record-breaking year for the species. The county mainland total advances to c.321 since 1930. 230 (11%) have occured during the last decade. The Marazion bird equals the previous earliest ever and the Kenidjack and Lands End birds of Oct 22nd are the fourth latest ever. Monthly breakdown: Apr - 27, May - 83, Jun - 50, Jul - 30, Aug - 35, Sept - 63, Oct - 33. Top Sites are Porthgwarra/St Levan - 38, Goonhilly/Croft Pascoe - 22, Lizard - 14, Marazion - 13 and Stithians Res. - 11. Of the total, 102 have appeared on the Lands End peninsula, 62 on the Lizard peninsula and 23 on Bodmin Moor.

PEREGRINE FALCON - Falco peregrinus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Another excellent year with observations from 101 localities. Coverage of breeding sites was again encouraging with many instances of proven success including the sole inland site. Rumours circulated during the breeding season that a number of eyries had been robbed of their contents, but fortunately our network of diligent observers were able to allay any suspicions. Whilst casual observers are encouraged to monitor breeding sites known to them, we cannot emphasise too strongly the need for complete discretion when in the vicinity of nest sites. Kills included several Woodpigeon and Feral Dove, a Greenshank and a Swallow.

55 Peregrine Derek Lord

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE - Alectoris rufa Resident. Breeds? Feral release. Hundreds if not thousands of hand-reared birds have been released in various parts of the county over the last twenty years. Particularly large numbers have been introduced into mid Cornwall but very few remain. The reason for the species' failure to colonise is not fully understood but is probably related to its' preference for lighter, sandier soils. Lanlivery: one Jan 4th, two May 21st, one Jun 6th and eight Jul 26th. Penpol: two Jan 6th. Menabilly/Gribbin Head: two or three Mar 19th to 24th, four Oct 17th. Tubbs Mill, Caerhays: two Mar 26th, five Sept 17th, 12 Sept 30th. Breney Common/Helman Tor: two Mar 31st, one Jun 7th. Luxulyan: two Apr 30th.

56 Sheviock: tame pair in spring. Mullion: one May 2nd/3rd. Rame Head: two May 6th. Predannack: one May 8th and 23rd. Stephengelly, Lanivet: noted from Jun 18th to the end of the year. Feock: one Sept 14th. Pencarrow Head: three Oct 13th. Caw sand: one Dec 22nd. Pentire, Polzeath: up to six throughout the year. (A bird at Whitsand Bay Jul 26th was thought to be a Chukar, but SCM points out that many hybrid Red-legged/Chukar have been released in this area and this was probably one of them). The best year since 1983 with the widest scatter ever. The Menabilly record is the first there since 1800 and the Mullion and Predannack records the first ever from the Lizard peninsula. 1989 Delete: Rialton: 11 Oct 17th. (See Grey Partridge).

GREY PARTRIDGE - Perdix perdix Resident (declining). Breeds. Feral release. The Grey Partridge has been in decline in Cornwall for many years, but this decrease accelerated during the 1980's, reaching rock bottom in 1988. Locally, this decrease is probably connected with increasing usage of herbicides and insecticides coupled with a lack of fallow land suitable for feeding birds in winter. Without continuing releases of feral birds the species will probably become extinct in Cornwall within a decade. Following a slight improvement in the Caradon district in 1989 there was a dramatic reversal this year with reports only from Rame/Penlee, Wiggle, Antony, St Germans, Amy Down, Viverdon Down and Boconnoc. Most reports were of one or two birds but there was also seven at Rame Head Jan 8th and five there Nov 7th, eight at Viverdon Downs Nov 2nd and seven at Boconnoc Dec 9th. This decline was mirrored along the south coast from Gribbin Head to Lizard Point with birds only at Luxulyan and Pontsmill. Breeding certainly occurred at the latter site because two juveniles were seen Jul 5th. On Lizard peninsula there was one at Loe Pool Feb 7th and one in the Kynance area from Mar 26th. Rather surprisingly there was one at Cudden Point, Marazion May 17th - the most westerly record for at least ten years. Along the north coast there were reports from ten localities between Tregurrian and Tintagel. Several of these sightings concerned pairs in the breeding season. The largest coveys were six at Port Quin Feb 20th, 16 at Trevose Head Sept 12th, seven at Port Isaac Oct 7th and six at St Eval Nov 20th. The only other report was of a pair at Lower Tamar Lake Apr 18th.

QUAIL - Coturnix coturnix

Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor. Occasionally breeds. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Has overwintered. Annual since 1975. Sticker: one May 23rd. AMJD. Viverdon Downs: one May 25th - Jun 17th, but up to four at times. RWG.NJC.PJR. et al. Boscastle: one Jun 16th. MR. Upper Tamar Res: singles Jul 3rd and Sept 18th. FAD.GRW.MW. Winnards Perch: one Jul lOth/llth. DLT.SMC. Whitecross, Newquay: one Aug 10th to 12th. DLT.SMC.EMC. A return to normal after the excesses of 1989. The county mainland total advances to c.228 (+ 63 young) since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - one, Mar - one, Apr - three, May - 60, Jun - 92 (40%), Jul - 37, Aug - 23, Sept - seven, Oct - two, Nov - two.

57 Top sites: Camel Est. - 24, Lizard - 21, Winnards Perch - 16, Newlyn East - 13 and Porthgwarra - 12. PHEASANT - Phasianus colchicus Resident. Breeds. Thousands of birds are released every year for sporting purposes, thus ensuring that populations are maintained at a high level. Once again there were no records from the Lizard peninsula but in the Lands End area, birds were noted at Zennor, Boswednack and Porthgwarra. Elsewhere there was no change in status. Largest parties observed were 60 at Portholland Sept 30th and 40 at Caerhays the same day. Single melanistic birds were seen at Tubbs Mill Jul 20th and Menabilly Oct 17th.

WATER RAIL - Rallus aquaticus Rare resident. Breeds in very low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A very poor year for the species, no doubt reflecting the abnormally mild weather at both ends of the year. Breeding was not proven in the county this year, although a well grown juvenile observed at Marazion Aug 22nd may have been locally bred. Up to four were heard at Bolingey, Perranporth during Apr/May and breeding may nave occurred. In the first winter period, fewer than 30 birds were reported with maxima of three at Par Jan 15th and eight at Bude Marshes Mar 16th. No more than two were reported from any other site and even at Marazion only singles were noted. Apart from the Perranporth birds the last in spring was one at Marazion Apr 8th. The first for autumn were two at Par Aug 5th but then none until one at Porth Res., Aug 21st. Numbers remained generally low throughout September but there was a widespread scatter in October. C.16 birds were reported in December. The maxima in the second half of the year included; Par: regular from Aug 5th with max of nine Aug 29th. Tamar Est: noted from Aug 30th with max of four Sept 20th and Nov 3rd to end of year. Loe Pool: four Oct 19th. Marazion: noted from Sept 26th with max of six Nov 15th to Dec 6th. St Levan: up to five in October. Skewjack/Nanjizal: up to ten in October. There was no more than two at any other locality. Of particular interest was one which landed on RMV Scillonian near Wolf Rock Oct 19th. GCS. SPOTTED CRAKE - Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn from mid August to early October). Very rare winter visitor. Bred in 1860, 1862 and 1874. 1989 Lower Tamar Lake: two Aug 27th/28th. Finders initials should read ... TD.GFJ.RMRJ. CORNCRAKE - Crex crex Rare passage migrant. Last bred in 1967, but possibly did so in 1977. Has overwintered. Rame Head: one Apr 28th. DRC. Skewjack: one Aug 9th. JH. Marazion: one Oct 2nd. NW. Once again there was an hearsay report of a bird in an area near the North coast. The best year since 1983. The county mainland total advances to c.139 since 1930.

58 Monthly breakdown: Jan - two, Apr - ten, May - 30, Jun - 40, Jul - seven, Aug - 14, Sept - 16, Oct - 17, Nov - three. Top sites: Wadebridge - nine, Polzeath, St Mawgan, Saltash and Manaccan - five each.

MOORHEN - Gallinula chloropus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. With the loss of suitable breeding habitat in recent years there appears to have been a substantial reduction in the breeding population. The exceptionally dry summers of 1989 and 1990 with the consequent lowering of water levels has exacerbated the problem. A total of at least 16 pairs was reported breeding this year, a slight improvement on 1989, but peak counts were about the same. Maximum numbers: Maer Lake: 15 Jan 3rd, 16 Mar 23rd. Marazion: 14 Jan 12th, 17 Nov 15th. Bude Marshes: 20 Jan 13th. Helston Amenity Area: 37 Jan 19th, 29 Nov 14th. Par: 16 Jan 22nd. Porth Res: 22 Sept 10th. Caerhays: 20 Sept 17th, 55 Dec 13th. Clowance Lake: 37 February, 14 December. COOT - Fulica atra Resident. Breeds annually at Stithians Reservoir, Marazion Marsh and Crowdy Reservoir but only occasionally elsewhere. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported from the following localities (with recent comparative information).

90 89 88 87 86 Marazion/Long Rock 3 2 10 7 2 Swanpool 1 2 2 Crowan Res. 1 1 -1 - College Res. l(First here- since 1985) - Colliford Res. poss. 1 3 Par poss.(First here- since 1985- ) (Figures represent number of pairs) Peak counts were the lowest for many years: Marazion: 50 Jan 2nd, 55 Dec 6th. Par: 20 Jan 10th, 23 Dec 8th. Colliford Res: 111 Jan 14th, 65 Feb 16th. Siblyback Res: 42 January, 80 October. Argal Res: 47 January, 44 December. Swanpool: 43 January, 52 December. Dozmary Pool: 58 Sept 16th. Stithians Res: 30 Sept 22nd. Loe Pool: 73 Nov 16th.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at the principal localities - 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 351 304 148 - 267 268 281 332 Marazion 30 24 13 23 27 53 55 Loe Pool 25 18 12 - 62 52 73 66 Argal Res. 47 55 12 - 3 13 33 44 Swanpool 43 38 37 - 42 47 47 52 Colliford Res. 111 90 32 - 41 - 4 65

59 OYSTERCATCHER - Haematopus ostralegus

Resident. Breeds in low numbers (mainly North coast). Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported only from Pentire Point to Ranie Point area of the north coast, where ML located three nests but gave no indication of success. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: 260 Jan 7th, 359 Jul 26th, 253 November. St Johns Lake: 292 January, 426 October. Gwithian/Godrevy: 92 Jan 13th, 119 Sept 7th. Maer Lake: 240 Jan 25th, 122 Dec 29th. Ruan Lanihorne: 200 Sept lOth/llth. Newquay: 153 Sept 23rd. Elsewhere there was no more than 100 at any other site. Inland there was three at Colliford Res., Aug 4th, with one to 7th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 751 682 430 381 188 128 462 867 909 976 801 732 Hayle Est. 48 30 33 16 10 13 29 51 50 27 31 30 Helford Est. 12 9 4 7 3 1 1 18 12 11 10 12 Devoran 7 4 6 4 1 11 22 6 11 1 5 Tresillian 15 6 15 3 - - 5 23 35 21 9 Truro River 51 34 41 3-6 17 -5 33 44 63 69 66 35 Ruan Lanihorne 7 7 4 12 102 22 14 14 3 Camel Est. 145 211 15-2 16-7 87 51- 175 130 349 220 253 176 Lynher Est. 54 29 14 6 _ 4 29 72 21 22 23 24 St Johns Lake 292 244 58 57 40 49 131 340 231 426 254 255 Tamar Est. 33 22 44 63 - - 3 11 56 30 51 47 AVOCET - Recurvirostra avosetta

Scarce winter visitor. Rare passage migrant. Has wintered annually at Tamar Estuary since 1947/8 but only occasionally elsewhere. Tamar Est: noted until Mar 11th with max of 152 January and 194 Feb 16th (a new record count here). Two were noted Jul 28th but these moved quickly through, with no more until three arrived Sept 14th (the earliest ever wintering birds). There was a build up to 147 in December. Five year average counts at this site reveal the following: 1st winter period 2nd winter period 1945/50 3 3 1951/55 15 15 1956/60 39 41 1961/65 52 52 1966/70 49 55 1971/75 59 54 1976/80 58 63 1981/85 82 83 1986/90 120 121

Lynher Est: noted until Mar 4th with a max of 32 Feb 20th. (The combined total of Tamar and Lynher birds peaked at 211 Feb 16th). One Oct 10th to 13th and four Dec 30th. Camel Est: one from 1989 to Jan 13th. Gweek: one May 27th to 30th. Ruan Lanihorne: one Nov 1st into 1991. A total of c.247 has been reported away from the Tamar Est. since 1930. Lynher Est. - 113, Ruan Lanihorne - 34, St Johns Lake - 26 and Hayle and Camel Est. - 18

60 each, have proved the most attractive. The Gweek bird is the first ever there and is also the second latest ever in spring.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius dubius

Uncommon passage migrant. Marazion Marsh: two Apr 1st to 4th, but three Apr 2nd. JH.RJH.JFR.MS. et al. One May lst/2nd. JFR.MS. Millbrook: one Apr 2nd/3rd. SGC.MO. Loe Pool: one Apr 9th. SB. Gwithian: one May 2nd. PAR. Landulph Marsh: juvenile Jul 25th. GDL. Hayle Est: one Sept 1st to 5th. DSF.JSH.GDL. Lower Tamar Lake: one Sept 11th. FHCK. Stithians Res: one Sept 21st. EG. The third best year ever - beaten only by 1980 and 1989. The county mainland total advances to c.157 - all but one since 1956. Monthly breakdown:Mar - three, Apr - 42, May - 29, Jun - four, Jul - 12, Aug - 41, Sept - 21, Oct - three, Nov - one and unspecified - one. Top sites: Marazion - 33, Stithians Res. - 30, Hayle Est. - 28 and Drift Res. -

12.

RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius hiaticula

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly a scarce breeding species but this has not been confirmed since 1972. It is unlikely to breed in Cornwall again owing to vastly increased coastal disturbance even in the most remote districts. Away from Camel Estuary flocks were exceptionally low in the first winter period, although a reasonable count was made at Tamar Estuary in March. Spring passage apparently commenced Apr 1st and ended with two at Hayle Est. Jun 30th. The first in autumn was one there Jul 10th. There was a light movement Aug 8th/9th but the majority passed through in mid to late September. Second winter flocks were the smallest for many years. Mamimum numbers: Camel Est: 130 Jan 13th, 160 Feb 12th, 45 Nov 30th. Hayle Est: 23 Feb 12th, 24 May 21st, 87 Aug 9th, 56 Nov 26th. Tamar Est: 70 Mar 11th. Mounts Bay: 56 Aug 8th, 30 Oct 29th. Par: 50 Aug 26th. Stithians Res: 30 August/September. Near Kynance: 80 Sept 16th to 22nd. (A record inland flock). Gwithian: 39 Sept 29th. Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 13 24 - - 15 19 5 103 165 36 61 27 Hayle Est. 23 - 7 5 1 20 4 15 18 Ruan L/horne - - - 8 9 39 - 4 2 Camel Est. 1-3 -1 - 5 - 9 3-9 3-6 15 4 St Johns Lake - - - -1 5 17 22 - - KENTISH PLOVER - Charadrius alexandrinus

Rare passage migrant. Marazion: male Apr 2nd to 8th. RJH.GRW.MW. et al. Loe Bar: singles Apr 15th, May 8th, May 28th and Jul 27th. (The second bird was a male, the other three were females). SB.ARP. Hayle Est: one Sept 2nd. JW. Six in a year is unprecedented and take the county mainland total to c.45. 61 Monthly breakdown: Mar - three, Apr - nine, May - 18, Jun - one, Aug - eight and Sept - six. Top sites: Marazion - 19 (42%), Camel Est. and Par - six apiece.

DOTTEREL - Charadrius morinellus Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Trevose Head: three Apr 30th. PAM. Predannack: three May 6th. SMC.BTSC.ARP.HCP. St Agnes: juvenile Sept 23rd. SMC.ADC.HMC. Cape Cornwall: one Sept 28th to 30th. RJH.JFR.JMW. et al. Sennen: one Nov 7th to 15th. JFR.JH.SMC. et al. These nine take the county mainland total to c. 191. Monthly breakdown: Mar - nine, Apr - 22, May - 13, Aug - 20, Sept - 85 (45%), Oct - 35, Nov - six, Dec - one. Top sites: Porthgwarra - 66 (35%), Lands End/Sennen/St Just Airfield - 30, Davidstow Airfield - 26 and Lizard/Kynance - 19. The St Agnes and Cape Cornwall birds are the first at those sites.

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis dominica

Vagrant. Sennen area: a juvenile noted at several localities Oct 29th to Nov 10th. RJL.BGL.JFR.JH. et al. Accepted by BBRC. The county mainland total advances to c.39 - all since 1968. Monthly breakdown: Apr - one, Aug - two, Sept - 13 (33%), Oct - 18 (4607o) and Nov - five. Top sites: Davidstow Airfield - 11, Stithians Res. - ten, St Just/Sennen - nine (but these totals include birds seen at more than one site).

GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis apricaria

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has never been proved in Cornwall, although a few pairs probably still nest in Devon and single birds are occasionally seen in suitable breeding habitat on Bodmin Moor from time to time. There was the usual scatter of large flocks during January and February and a general departure by mid-March. A very light spring passage was reported during April and there were five birds in May - the latest at Hayle Est on 28th. The first in autumn was one at Tregathenan Res. Jul 22nd followed by one at Stithians Res. Aug 4th. Numbers remained low until Oct 6th when 250 had gathered at Crowdy Res. Peak passage occurred from late October to mid-November, with a decrease in December. Maximum numbers: Colliford Res: 620 Jan 7th, 2000 Dec 1st. Camel Est: 2100 Jan 14th, 800 Nov 4th. Hayle Est: 495 Jan 14th, 500 Nov 17th. Tamar Est: 1244 Jan 17th, 1700 Feb, 120 Nov. Maer Lake: 500 Jan 20th. Predannack: 600 Jan 21st, 650 Oct 27th. Ruan Lanihorne: 1000 Jan 22nd. Lynher Est: 500 Feb 3rd. Crowdy Res: 800 Feb 18th, 1100 Oct 16th. Stithians Res: 400 Oct 25th, 600 Dec 23rd. Sennen: 400 Nov 15th, 500 Dec 31st.

62 GREY PLOVER - Pluvialis squatarola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Flocks in both winter periods were small. Spring passage commenced with one at Par Apr 7th and ended with one at Hayle Jun 15th, but the total of c.25 birds was poor. Autumn passage commenced with one at Par Aug 2nd followed by one inland at Stithians Res Aug 5th, but with the exception of 40 at Ruan Lanihorne Sept 14th, few arrived until mid-October. Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 85 January, 80 December. Lynher Est: 60 January (a record count here). Camel Est: 48 Jan 15th, 80 Oct 17th and Dec 30th. Hayle Est: 59 Feb 12th, 26 Nov 12th. Ruan Lanihorne: 50 Nov 1st. Inland: Stithians Res: one Aug 5th to 7th, two Sept 12th to 23rd. Crowdy Res: one Sept 15th/16th, two Sept 23rd. Of the 96 inland records over the last thirty years these are the top two sites with 35 (36%) and 29 (30%) of the total, respectively.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 169 133 53 - 1 16 - 28 46 121 113 Hayle Est. 36 59 8 - 1 - - - 4 1 22 16 Camel Est. 48 1 - - - - 16 - 14 5 26 11 St Johns Lake 85 73 45 10 46 80

LAPWING - Vanellus vanellus

Resident. Breeds, mainly on Bodmin Moor, but with a few pairs on the mid Cornwall moors, Lizard downs and occasionally elsewhere. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season information was again sparse. On Bodmin Moor one pair bred and three other pairs probably bred at Rushyford Gate and one or two pairs may have bred at Colliford. On Lizard moors birds were noted at Croft Pascoe and Hayle Kimbro but there was no proof of breeding. First winter flocks were about the average of recent years but second winter flocks were again small. Away from potential breeding sites the last in spring were 30 at Camel Est. Mar 6th and the first return bird was at Crowan Res. Jun 14th. Maximum numbers: Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield: 4000 Jan 2nd, 1000 Nov 4th to Dec 3rd. Tamar Est: 1161 January, 311 November. Colliford Res: 500 Jan 14th. Hayle Est: 620 Jan 14th, 700 Feb 9th. Ruan Lanihorne: 700 Jan 15th. Camel Est: 2800 Jan 17th, 3000 Feb 5th, 1000 Nov 5th. Maer Lake: 1000 Jan 18th, 500 Dec 29th. Tamar Lakes: 700 Feb 10th, 1000 Dec 2nd.

KNOT - Calidris canutus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly occurred in much greater numbers, particularly at St Johns Lake. 1990 proved to be the poorest year for this species for at least thirty years. As anticipated, the number of birds overwintering from 1989 was unprecedentedly low with records from only three sites. At St Johns Lake there was a peak of 12 in February and there was three at Lynher Estuary and one at Camel Estuary.

63 Spring passage commenced with one at Par Mar 30th and consisted of additional singles at Mounts Bay Apr 29th, St Johns Lake May 5th and Hayle Est May 19th to 21st. Autumn passage was little better. The first were two at Hayle Est Jul 13th with another there Jul 16th. There was no more until Aug 27th when five arrived at Porthkidney Beach. There was a slight improvement during September and October but passage petered out Nov 4th with an autumn total of c.60 - surely the lowest ever? The only parties of note were the Porthkidney birds, eight at Camel Est Sept 2nd, nine at St Johns Lake Sept 7th, four at Truro River Sept 9th and six at Lynner Est Sept 13th. There was only one report for the second winter period - 16 at St Johns Lake Dec 16th. Inland there were singles at Drift Res. Aug 27th to Sept 1st, Porth Res. Aug 28th, Stithians Res. Sept 1st and Predannack Sept 16th to 18th. Of the 112 birds noted inland since 1960, 53 (47%) have been at Stithians Res. 26 at Crowdy Res. and 11 at Drift Res. with lesser numbers elsewhere. A measure of the species decline as a winter visitor to the county can be gauged from the following five year average maximum counts at St Johns Lake:

1st winter period 2nd winter period 1961/65 750 650 1966/70 775 750 1971/75 549 550 1976/80 420 277 1981/85 83 87 1986/90 75 23

SANDERLING - Calidris alba

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. Mounts Bay is undoubtedly the most important site for the species, attracting the largest migrant parties and the only regular wintering flock. Small migrant flocks also visit Par Beach, Hayle Estuary/Porthkidney Beach and Camel Estuary annually but the species is irregular elsewhere. A much better year at Mounts Bay but few elsewhere in either winter period. Spring passage commenced with two at Par Apr 6th and ended with two at Hayle Est. Jun 17th. It was a light spring movement with most reported May 5th to 7th and May 17th to 19th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Mounts Bay Jul 9th followed by two at Hayle Est. Jul 13th. There was a notable influx Jul 23rd to 29th but then low numbers throughout the remainder of autumn. Mounts Bay: noted until May 18th with max of 90 Jan 12th, 34 Mar 3rd and 31 May 18th, and from Jul 9th with max of 35 Aug 8th and 92 Nov 28th. Par: two Jan/Feb, one March, then a light passage until Jun 16th with max of 30 May 19th. Small numbers Jul 14th to Oct 22nd with max of 15 Sept 15th and one Nov 28th into 1991. Camel Est: one Feb 23rd/24th, three May 13th, singles on several dates in autumn and 20 in December. Hayle Est: six May 19th, then one or two to Jun 17th. Small parties in autumn from Jul 13th to Oct 14th with max of ten Sept 7th. Loe Bar: 105 Jul 23rd. Porthkidney Beach: 180 Jul 29th. Inland records: Colliford Res: one Jul 23rd. Stithians Res: one Aug 18th, three Sept 16th, two to 21st and one to 22nd. Drift Res: one Sept 18th. Predannack: one Sept 22nd/23rd. Of the 84 inland records since 1932, 23 have occurred at Stithians Res., 20 at Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield and ten at Drift Res. with lesser numbers at other sites. 64 LITTLE STINT - Calidris minuta

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. None in the first winter or spring periods but an excellent autumn passage involving c.70 birds. Apart from a notable arrival of c.25 birds Sept 8th/9th, passage was fairly evenly distributed until the last at Crowan Res Oct 30th. Loe Pool: singles Jul 25th and Sept 11th to 14th, two Sept 26th to 29th. St Johns Lake: singles Aug 4th and Sept 5th. Gweek: one Aug 9th. Par: one or two regular Aug 25th to Sept 30th. Tamar Lakes: noted Sept 8th to 21st with max of 12 on 18th. Predannack: singles Sept 8th and 20th. Stithians Res: noted Sept 8th to Oct 25th with max of nine Sept 23rd and ten Sept 30th. Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield: noted Sept 8th to 28th with max of four Sept 16th and 28th. Hayle Est: noted Sept 8th to Oct 25th with max of four Sept 13th. Porth Res: two Sept 8th to 11th. Mounts Bay: singles Sept 9th and Sept 23rd to Oct 2nd but four Sept 29th. Colliford Res: 11 Sept 9th reducing to two Sept 17th. Drift Res: noted Sept 10th to 24th with max of three on 17th. Camel Est: one Oct 20th to 25th. Crowan Res: one Oct 20th to 30th. Boscean, St Just: one Oct 21st to 25th, but two on 23rd. The eleven at Colliford is a record count there and the twelve at Tamar Lakes the second best count ever there.

BAIRN'S SANDPIPER - Calidris bairdii

Correction to 1989 Report. Add: Stithians Res: juvenile Oct 24th to 30th. W. Aspin, A.S. Dislev, I. Gardner, et al.

PECTORAL SANDPIPER - Calidris melanotos

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Hayle Est: one Jun 9th to 12th. DSF. et al. Drift Res: one Aug 22nd to Sept 16th, another Aug 26th to Sept 3rd. AJ.JFR. et al. Stiihians Res: one sporadically Sept 12th to Oct 2nd. JAJ.JH.DJB. et al. Lynher Est: one Sept 23rd. EHW.AB.PB. Predannack: one Sept 30th. ARP. Sennen: one Oct 15th. MJC.AMH. et al. Crowan Res: one Oct 23rd. DO.SCo. et al. The best year since 1984. These eight take the county mainland total to c. 191. There are five previous spring records. Monthly breakdown: Apr - two, May - two, June - two, Aug - 25, Sept - 126 (66%), Oct - 31, Nov - three. Top sites: Stithians Res. - 36, Drift Res. - 25, Marazion - 23, Hayle Est. - 17 and Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield - 15.

CURLEW SANDPIPER - Calidris ferruginea

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. A much better year than 1989, with five in spring and c.121 in autumn. Spring records: Mounts Bay: singles Mar 20th (the fourth earliest ever) and May 21st to 27th. St Johns Lake: one May 2nd and two May 7th. Hayle Est: one May 19th/20th.

65 The first in autumn were two at Tamar Lake Jul 16th (the earliest autumn arrival since 1971), but few were reported until September, with that month accounting for 95 (82%) of the autumn total. One which remained at St Johns Lake until at least Dec 18th was the latest since one overwintered at Ruan Lanihorne 1979/80. SCM. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Hayle Est: noted Jul 27th to Nov 3rd with max of ten Sept 30th. Ruan Lanihorne: one Jul 31st to Aug 29th, two Sept 27th to Oct 2nd. Stithians Res: noted Aug 18th to Oct 9th with max of nine Sept 21st. Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield: noted Sept 1st to 23rd with max of six Sept 16th. Truro River: seven Sept 9th, two Oct 20th. Par: noted Sept 10th to 23rd with max of eight Sept 17th. Tamar Est: noted Sept 18th to Oct 21st with max of four first date. St Johns Lake: noted Sept 15th to Dec 18th with max of 11 Sept 22nd. Predannack: noted Sept 18th to Oct 7th with max of six Sept 23rd. Tamar Lakes: 14 Sept 18th. There was no more than two at any other site.

PURPLE SANDPIPER - Calidris maritima

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Mounts Bay remains the prime site for the species in Cornwall with small numbers regular at Looe, Par, Falmouth and Newquay. Several other sites attract the species less frequently. Peak average numbers were maintained at Mounts Bay and there has been an increase at Godrevy. Last in spring was one at Godrevy May 27th and the first return bird was also there Jul 31st. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Mounts Bay: noted until May 23rd with max of 55 Jan 3rd and 43 Apr 7th, and from Sept 16th with max of 53 Dec 1st. Par/Carlyon Bay: noted until Apr 27th with max of eight Apr 11th and from Dec 8th with max of five that date. Gwithian/Godrevy: noted until May 27th with max of 33 Jan 4th and 45 Mar 31st and from Jul 31st with max of 34 Nov 23rd. Looe: noted until March with max of seven January and during Nov/Dec with max of six in latter month. Portscatho: up to three to Feb 12th, one Nov 19th to 26th. Newquay: up to five in January, five Sept 15th and Dec 29th. St Ives: seven Jan 22nd and Feb 21st, one west Oct 31st. Bude: noted until Mar 26th with max of nine Jan 13th. Trevose Head: five Jan 28th, eight Dec 27th. Sennen Cove: 20 Oct 2nd and lesser numbers to end of year. Elsewhere in the first winter period there was up to four at Tregantle, Mevagissey, Cot and Cape Cornwall. In the second winter period similar sized parties were noted at Tregantle, Percuil, Falmouth and Pendeen.

DUNLIN - Calidris alpina

Passage migrant. Abundant winter visitor. Breeding has been reported during the last decade but recent information is scanty. These are the most southerly breeding Dunlin in the world. First winter counts were not quite as high as for the corresponding period in 1989, but were nonetheless, large. Virtually all had departed by mid-March and there was a light spring passage Mar 30th to Jun 18th with most moving through in mid- May. Autumn passage apparently commenced with ten at Hayle Est. Jul 8th. There followed a trickle of birds throughout July and August, but the first notable passage occurred Sept 15th. The vast majority of these birds moved quickly on before wintering flocks started to build up from mid-October. Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 4000 Jan 14th, 3000 Feb 10th, 3067 Nov 18th and 3614 Dec 16th. Tamar Est: 426 Jan 4th, 800 Feb 10th, 136 Oct 22nd. Lynher Est: 1000 Feb 21st, 180 May, 200 Nov 18th to Dec 16th. Camel Est: 700 Jan 17th, 454 Nov 18th. Truro River: 500 Jan 27th, 185 Nov 18th. Portscatho: 350 Jan 28th, 300 Dec 20th/21st. Hayle Estuary: 650 Feb 12th, 100 May 19th, 88 Jul 23rd, 206 Sept 15th, 820 Dec 17th. Par: 200 Sept 15th. Ruan Lanihorne: 500 Dec 6th. There was the usual scatter of inland records with max of 56 at Predannack Jan 21st, 45 at Stithians Res. Aug 18th, 35 at Colliford Res. Sept 9th and 35 at Crowdy Res. Nov 30th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 4946 5085 404 96 114 411 339 569 2292 4186 5983 Hayle Est. 310 650 - 35 30 12 20 102 40 273 915 Devoran 10 - - 10 54 9 51 140 Ruan Lanihorne 96- 42 - - 7- 43- 142 104 15 82 2-6 430 Truro River 100 50 21- - 185 125 Camel Est. 423 532 _ - 4 21 3 26 146 294 454 257 Tamar Est. 8 800 8 _ _ - 51 28 24 86 122 272 St Johns Lake 4000 3000 375 - 50 20 180 61 224 1502 3067 3614 RUFF - Philomachus pugnax

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. A male and female were noted at a potential breeding site in 1980 but there has been no repetition. One at Crowdy Res. Feb 17th was the sole first winter report. Spring passage commenced with five at Marazion Mar 14th and ended with one at Stithians Res. May 1st. A total of c.24 birds was reported, mainly singles in late March and early April. Larger parties included a total of eleven through Marazion, the maximum being eight Mar 17th, two at Hayle Est. Mar 30th and three at Hayle Kimbro Apr 30th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Tamar Est. Jul 25th and ended with one which lingered at Lynher Est. until Nov 18th. A total of c.98 birds was reported. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: noted Aug 8th to Sept 18th with max of six Sept 16th. Stithians Res: noted Aug 10th to Oct 16th with max of five Sept 2nd. Crowdy Res: noted Aug 26th to Oct 27th with max of four Sept 9th. Camel Est: noted Sept 2nd to Oct 20th with max of 13 Sept 10th. Predannack: noted Sept 8th to 24th with max of seven Sept 23rd. Elsewhere there was no more than three together and there was none in the second winter period.

JACK SNIPE - Lymnocryptes minimus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant A better year than 1989 - the total of c.32 being about the average of the previous decade. Gwithian: one Jan 13th to 22nd. Tamar Est: one Jan 14th (presumably the 1989 bird). Lower Tamar Lake: one Feb 4th. Hayle Est: one Feb 12th, two Nov 18th to 26th, three Dec 4th into 1991, but seven Dec 10th. 67 Goonhilly: two Mar 4th, one to Mar 17th. Marazion Marsh: singles Sept 26th to Oct 10th, Nov 21st to Dec 13th and another Nov 25th. Loe Pool: one Sept 28th. Stithians Res: one Sept 28th. Skewjack: one Oct 4th to 28th, another Oct 25th. Camel Est: one Oct 17th. Lands End: one Oct 21st. Breney Common: one Oct 24th. Crowan Res: one Oct 25th, two Nov 28th. Lanivet Lakes: singles Oct 26th and Dec 14th into 1991. Kynance: one Nov 4th. Lynher Est: one Nov 18th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: One Dec 9th. Coldrose Farm, Truro: one Dec 19th. Par: one Dec 22nd - 24th. Gunwalloe: one Dec 30th.

The seven at Hayle was the largest group in the county since 1985.

SNIPE - Gallinago gallinago Resident. Breeds in low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was not proven anywhere this year, but one at Rushyford Gate May 5th was in suitable habitat. First winter flocks were extremely small and there was little evidence of a spring passage, the last being one at Gwithian May 3rd. The first return bird in autumn was at Stithians Res. Jul 15th, but immigration was light until mid-September. Small numbers were noted by observers conducting static, visible migration watches in West and North Cornwall during October, but flocks remained generally small to the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Maer Lake: 110 Jan 12th, 100 Dec 29th. Bude Marshes: 140 Jan 13th. Landulph Marsh: 65 Jan 14th, 43 Dec 16th. Camel Est: 40 Feb 24th, 72 Dec 9th. Crowan Res: 60 Nov 3rd. Crowdy Res: 90 Nov 23rd. Hayle Est: 71 Dec 4th. Gulval: 60 Dec 31st.

WOODCOCK - Scolopax rusticola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has been proved on very few occasions in Cornwall and there has not been the slightest suspicion for at least twenty years. After a rock-bottom performance in 1989 there was a considerable improvement this year. Whilst a mere 22 were reported in the first winter period, there was a total of c.50 in autumn and the second winter period - the most since 1983. Last in spring was one at Gweek Mar 18th and the first in autumn was at Porthgwarra Oct 9th. In the first winter, apart from singles there was two at St Columb Jan 4th, four at Newbridge Jan 14th and two at Wadebridge Feb 6th. In autumn there was a small arrival of c.17 birds Oct 22nd to 27th which included five at Nanjizal on 26th and there was up to three at St Just Oct 30th to Nov 2nd. Later, there was two at Porthgwarra Nov 3rd, three at Tregonetha Nov 10th, two at St Ives Nov 17th, four at Five Lanes Nov 28th, three at Pilsmoor Dec 24th and three at Crowdy Res. Dec 30th. The remainder were all singles.

68 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER - Limnodromus scolopaceus

Rare vagrant. Drift Res: juvenile Sept 23rd. DCh.SCh.JFR. Crows-an-wra: juvenile Sept 26th/27th. RED. Camel Est: one Oct 13th. SMC.ABR. Assuming that the first two records relate to the same bird the county mainland total moves to c.23 - all but two since 1966. Monthly breakdown: Mar - one, May - one, Aug - one, Sept - three, Oct - 15 (65%), Nov - two. Top sites: Stithians Res. - five, Davidstow/Crowdy Res. - five, Marazion - three and Hayle Est. - three.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa limosa

Passage migrant. Winter visitor, almost exclusively to south coast estuaries. There has been a substantial reduction in the number of birds wintering in the county over the last twenty years. This decline continued in 1990. At both Lynher Est. and St Johns Lake, peak winter flocks are little more than 10% of the maximum 30 years ago, whilst at Ruan Lanihorne there has been a reduction of at least 50% over the last 15 years. Spring passage was almost non-existent, ending with an unusual record of six flying west at Rame Head June 6th. The first return birds were four at Hayle Est. Jun 28th, but very few others were reported until the Ruan Lanihorne flock started to increase in early August. Elsewhere passage was negligible until November. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tamar Est: 42 Jan 10th, 33 Feb 16th. Ruan Lanihorne: 40 Jan 15th, 125 Oct 4th. Devoran: 30 Jan 16th, 50 Dec 31st. Truro River: 58 Jan 27th, 141 Feb 3rd, 72 Dec 31st. Lynher Est: 33 Feb 4th, 20 Nov 18th. St Johns Lake/Millbrook: 43 Nov 16th. Inland there was one at Caerhays Lake Mar 26th, one at Crowdy Res. May 6th, two at Porth Res. Aug 11th, two at Drift Res. Sept 1st and one at Stithians Res. Sept 28th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 160 76 24 4 41 59 89 141 142 130 Devoran 12 3 2 3 - - 3 18 Truro River 36 49 4 9 35 54 Ruan Lanihorne 40 37 52 63 108 _ 1 Tamar Est. 42 10 - - - - 3 3 4 3 - - Lynher Est. 12 7 3 - - - - 4 20 14 61 23 St Johns Lake 12 - 2 7 43 34 BAR-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa lapponica

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The poor autumn passage of 1989 was reflected in the abysmal number of birds which overwintered into 1990. Contrast this with the record number which overwintered the previous year. At Camel Est. there was a peak of 15 Jan 7th, whilst at Hayle Est. 35 Jan 14th was an exceptional number. Elsewhere there was one at Mounts Bay Jan 12th, two at Devoran Jan 16th and nine at St Johns Lake during January. Spring passage commenced with one at Par Mar 23rd and continued to at least Jun

69 9th when one flew east at Rame Head. Few were noted until Apr 30th, but from then until May 7th there was a notable passage. The maximum included 17 at Fowey Est. Apr 1st, 42 at Porthleven Apr 30th to May 2nd, 60 at Gunwalloe May 1st, 98 at Loe Bar May 2nd, 70 north at Trevose Head May 2nd and 15 at Par May 3rd to 6th. One or two remained at Hayle Est. throughout the summer and autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Tamar Est. Jul 3rd. It proved to be another poor autumn with max of 72 south at Gunwalloe Sept 10th, 40 at Hayle Est. Sept 14th, 25 at Camel Est. Sept 25th, 14 at Ruan Lanihorne Oct 2nd and 11 at St Johns Lake Oct 15th. There were no other double-figure counts and second winter flocks were no larger than those of 1989. The maximum by far was nine at St Johns Lake Dec 16th. Inland there was four at Predannack May 5th and two there Sept 8th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 13 5 22 2 13 1 3 15 56 22 10 39 Hayle Est. 2 4 1 1 1 6 20 2 Camel Est. 2 -1 2- 5 8 7 -1 - Lynher Est. - 4 - - -9 26 5 - St Johns Lake 9- -1 21- - 3 - -1 1 11- 4 9- - - - WHIMBREL - Numenius phaeopus

Passage migrant (mainly spring). A few overwinter. Single birds were noted at St Johns Lake Jan 8th to Mar 25th and Camel Est. Feb 19th to 24th during the first winter period. Spring passage commenced with one at Mevagissey Apr 7th followed by one in St Austell Bay Apr 14th. A few arrived during the ensuing week but there was an enormous concentration in Mounts Bay Apr z2nd, which was double the size of the previous largest flock in Cornwall. Good numbers continued to arrive until Apr 28th and again May 4th to 8th. Passage apparently ceased May 29th but a few birds summered. Autumn passage was more noticeable than normal with particularly good numbers noted on the north coast in mid-August. Main passage had virtually ceased by Sept 6th, after which only six birds were noted. Later, singles were observed at Rame Head Nov 4th, Carrick Roads Nov 6th into 1991, Hayle Est. Dec 30th and St Johns Lake into 1991. Mamimum numbers: Mounts Bay: 1000 Apr 22nd. MS describes the scene thus; 'I sat on the dunes and looked across the Bay - crossing the entire length from the Mount to Penlee was a continuous chain of Whimbrel. From this, one small bunch broke off and flew into shore where they landed. This was all Whimbrel and contained 80 birds. My estimate would put the whole flock at 1000 birds, I did not count them, but just observed the movement'. Porthgwarra: 30 Apr 22nd. Loe Pool: 46 Apr 24th, 44 May 5th. Trevose Head: 32 Apr 24th. Mousehole: 23 Apr 24th. Nanquidno: 45 Apr 27th. Hayle Est: 40 Apr 27th, 31 Aug 2nd. Camel Est: 30 Apr 27th. St Austell Bay: 26 Apr 27th. Sennen: 50 Apr 28th. Tamar Est: 40 May 6th. St Johns Lake: 35 May 6th, 90 Jul 23rd. Gerrans Bay: 30 May 6th. Crowdy Res: 30 May 6th. Gunwalloe: 38 May 28th.

70 Pendeen: 53 Aug 15th, 50 Aug 19th - all west. St Ives: 26 Aug 16th, 33 Sept 6th - all west. Gwithian: 66 Aug 17th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total - - - - 38 1 165 42 3 1 - 1 CURLEW - Numenius arquata

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Pairs apparently bred at Ninestones Bridge and Gilhouse Downs and may have bred at Laneast and Temple on Bodmin Moor. Maximum numbers: Tamar Est: 346 Jan 14th, 326 Sept 15th. Lynher Est: 307 Jan 14th, 605 Aug 13th. Devoran: 310 Jan 14th, 430 Sept 23rd. Hayle Est: 210 Jan 14th, 470 Aug 30th, 700 Oct 27th. Gwithian: 200 Jan 17th. Camel Est: 500 Feb 2nd, 584 Sept 15th. Gannel Est: 558 Feb 11th, 614 Dec 16th. St Johns Lake: 253 Feb 11th, 309 Oct 21st. Ruan Lanihorne: 1000 Jul 31st. Truro River: 267 Sept 23rd. Tresillian: 286 Oct 1st.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 2450 2122 622 225 131 194 2267 2873 3229 2286 2309 1646 Hayle Est. 210 83 74 54 21 31 277 403 460 144 66 14 Devoran 310 26 118 42 22 23 245 350 430 167 182 48 Tresillian 244 84 35 2 3 13 308 184 267 127 142 94 Truro River 171 174 55 16 14 18 172 234 267 112 144 98 Ruan Lanihorne: 20 66 1 7 31 449 440 180 36 28 6 Gannel Est. 92 558 4-6 443 562 614 Camel Est. 271 202 73 63 35 50 451 177 584 223 367 60 Tamar Est. 346 300 82 18 3 6 46 278 326 227 226 272 Lynher Est. 307 267 37 19 18 16 190 605 463 330 228 225 St Johns Lake 220 253 57 5 5 4 28 10 141 309 237 113

SPOTTED REDSHANK - Tringa eyrthropus

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor, almost exclusively confined to south coast estuaries. In the first winter period the Lynher Est. flock peaked at 17 in January. Nearby there was five at Tamar Est Jan/Feb and one at St Johns Lake Feb 14th. On the Fal Est. complex, there was eight at Tresillian until Mar 10th, a single at Devoran Jan 6th and two at Truro River Feb 10th. Spring passage consisted of six birds, two at Gwithian Mar 16th to 18th, two at Hayle Est. Mar 17th, and singles at Tamar Est. Apr 11th and St Johns Lake May 5th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Tamar Est. Jul 19th. Birds were sighted at 15 localities but the total was the lowest since 1985. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tamar Est: noted from Jul 19th with max of six Oct 22nd. Tresillian: noted from Aug 13th with max of 14 Oct 1st. Lynher Est: noted from Aug 19th with max of ten Oct 14th. There was no more than two together at any other site.

71 Inland: Drift Res: singles Jul 27th and Aug 22nd - 27th, two Sept 8th. Lower Tamar Lake: two Aug 8th - 12th and singles Aug 15th and Sept 14th - 16th. Porth Res: one Aug 23rd - 26th. Crowdy Res: one Aug 31st - Sept 13th. Stithians Res: one Sept 12th/13th. In December there were peaks of 16 at Lynher Est., nine at Tresillian, three at Tamar Est. and two at Truro River.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 30 9 7 5 10 15 26 28 Tresillian 7 3 7 - - - - 3 7 10 9 Tamar Est: 5 3 - - - - 3 -3 5 3 Lynher Est: 17 3 1 - 10 10 16 REDSHANK - Tringa totanus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has occurred only twice - in 1904 and 1980, but was also probable in 1968. Excellent numbers were reported for the first winter period, but a very poor spring passage Mar 14th to May 6th involved a mere seven birds. The first for autumn was at Par Jun 11th followed by one at Hayle Est Jun 14th. Autumn passage was heavy, particularly during August with several notable congregations. Second winter flocks were slightly smaller than those of the first winter. Maximum numbers: Tamar Est: 266 Jan 10th, 578 Aug 19th (the largest flock here since 1962), 308 Nov 15th. St Johns Lake: 161 Jan 10th, 282 Jul 24th, 110 Dec 17th. Lynher Est: 218 Jan 10th, 350 Oct 18th (the largest flock here since 1979). Devoran: 125 Jan 14th, 108 Aug 19th and Dec 16th. Ruan Lanihorne: 116 Jan 10th, 350 Nov 1st (the largest flock here since 1980). Camel Est: 90 Feb 5th, 110 Sept 23rd. (Very low numbers at this site). Hayle Est: 65 Feb 23rd, 78 Oct 18th. Truro River: 163 Sept 9th. Inland: Stithians Res: 3 Aug 5th, one Sept 22nd. Drift Res: one Aug 20th. Lower Tamar Lake: one Sept 11th. Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 1220 865 574 4 828 1430 1090 1237 1141 1003 Hayle Est 51 40 32 1 - - 33 70 73 36 37 36 Devoran 125 51 103 1 - - 40 108 48 42 82 108 Tresillian 66 77 32 2 _ -_ 79 28 22 98 69 70 Ruan Lanihorne 116 111 53 104 51 86 89 31 Camel Est 66 58 27- - - - 5 12 110 70 66 77 Tamar Est 266 241 166 - - 90 578 160 224 308 226 Lynher Est 218 90 45 - - - 69 176 268 350 229 156 - - St Johns Lake 161 154 135 - - - 282 214 209 246 172 110 GREENSHANK - Tringa nebularia

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. As usual, small numbers were reported from most estuaries in both winter periods. 72 Spring passage apparently commenced with three at Looe Apr 1st and ended with one at Devoran May 13th. Apart from a good count at St Johns Lake it was a light movement. The first return birds were four at Devoran Jun 10th. It proved to be an exceptional migration with several large concentrations. The majority moved through from mid-August to mid-September. Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 15 Jan, 16 Mar, 19 May 5th, 47 Sept (the highest count ever here and the fifth largest ever in Cornwall), seven Dec 29th. Devoran: Six Jan 6th, ten Aug 11th, eight Nov 28th. Percuil: five Jan 8th. Camel Est: 14 Jan, 33 Aug 11th (the largest flock here since 1983). Fowey Est: six Jan 28th, 12 Aug 26th (the largest number ever here ?). Helford Est: five Mar 13th and Dec 31st. Tamar Est: ten Jul 26th, five Dec 24th. Lynher Est: 13 Aug, 14 Dec 23rd. Tresillian: 25 Aug 18th (a record count here?). Ruan Lanihorne: 20 Sept 11th. Inland there were sightings at all of the reservoirs except Argal and College. Birds were also reported from Croft Pascoe Pool, Hayle Kimbro Pool and Skewjack. The maximum included six at Lower Tamar Lake Aug 8th, six at Stithians Res. Aug 9th, 11 at Drift Res. Aug 24th and six at Porth Res. Sept 2nd.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 42 25 32 23 3 - 55 77 95 57 45 34 Camel Est. 14 2 8 - - 2 11 13 16 10 7 Tamar Est. - 1 4 -1 1 3 5 18 4 1 2 Lynher Est. 3 8 - 1 - - 11 13 2 1 6 2 St Johns Lake 15 13 16 16 - - 29 24 47 23 20 5 LESSER YELLOWLEGS - Tringa flavipes

Rare vagrant. Nanjizal: one flew over Oct 14th. AMH et al. The county mainland total moves to c.24. Monthly breakdown: Aug - two, Sept - 11 (46%), Oct - nine, Nov - two. Top sites: Camel Est. - six, Stithians Res. - four, Drift Res. and Marazion - three each. GREEN SANDPIPER - Tringa ochropus Passage migrant, (mainly autumn). A few overwinter. In the first winter period (January - early March) there were singles at Tamar Est (with two there Jan 14th), Millbrook, Lynher Est., Loe Pool, Lanivet and Hayle Est. (also with two Jan 14th). Two birds continued to be noted at Hayle during March and at Tamar Est. Mar 29th, so that the only spring pasage records concerned singles at Lynher Est. Mar 3rd to 15th, Tamar Lakes Apr 12th, Skewjack and Boswednack Apr 30th and Marazion May 1st. The reduction in numbers in autumn continues. This year a total of c.95 birds was reported between Jun 17th and Oct 27th. As usual peak passage occurred late in July and early in August. Most reports concerned one or two birds, but more regular sightings emanated from: Tamar Est: c.12 birds between Jun 24th and Sept 23rd with max of seven Aug 19th. Hayle Est: c.ll between Jul 1st and Oct 11th with max of six Aug 20th. Drift Res: c.ll between Jul 19th and Sept 16th with max of five Jul 19th. Other site max included four at Stithians Res. Jul 24th, four at Skewjack Jul 25th, three at Marazion Aug 3rd, three at Colliford Res. Aug 4th, four at Lanivet Aug 20th, three at Porth Res. Aug 31st, three at Lynher Est. Sept 23rd and Oct 21st and four at Crowan Res. Oct 24th.

73 In the second winter period singles were noted at Lanivet, and Helston, two were at Lynher Est. and Drift Res. and three were at Tamar Est. and Hayle Est.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Aprl vlay Jun Jul Aue Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 6 1 1 2 - - 3 3 7 4 5 9

WOOD SANDPIPER - Tringa glareola

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Four in spirng but only c.19 in autumn. Marazion: singles Mar 17th - Apr 3rd and Mar 26th - Apr 5th. Hayle Est: one Mar 30th. Porthgwarra: one May 9th. Croft Pascoe Pool: one Jul 29th. Stithians Res: one Jul 30th, three Aug 6th, four Aug 8th, five Aug 10th then gradually reducing to one Aug 23rd. One Sept 16th - 18th. Drift Res: singles Aug 3rd to 17th and Sept 8th. Skewjack: one Aug 9th. Crowdy Res: two Aug 10th - 13th with one to 23rd. Lower Tamar Lake: one Aug 18th. Ruan Lanihorne: one Aug 25th. Colliford Res: three Aug 26th - Sept 1st, two Sept 12th with one to 15th. St Johns Lake: one Sept 15th. A complete historical review has not yet been finalised but since 1965 a total of c.636 has been reported, 41 (6%) in spring and 595 (94%) in autumn. Top sites in spring are Marazion - 20 (50%) and Hayle - five, and in autumn Stithians Res. - 171, Hayle Est. - 56 and Drift Res. - 54. The Marazion birds are the second and fourth earliest ever respectively.

COMMON SANDPIPER - Actites hypoleucos

Passage migrant. A few overwinter. Bred in 1989, probably in 1988, but previously not since 1910. Eight birds were reported in the first winter period - all singles at Tamar Est., St Johns Lake, Fowey Est., Froe Creek, Portscatho, Tresillian, Truro River and Carne Creek, Manaccan. Four at Tamar Est. Mar 11th may have been migrants but there was no more until two at Loe Pool Apr 6th. Spring passage consisted of c.76 birds with the last at Tamar Est. Jun 3rd. 39 (51%) moved through Apr 26th - May 1st and the maxima included seven at St Johns Lake Apr 22nd, eight at Loe Pool Apr 27th, nine at Mounts Bay Apr 28th and ten at Gannel Est. Apr 30th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Mevagissey Jun 25th and continued to late October. The total of c.206 birds was about the average of recent years. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Loe Pool: c. 14 between Jun 28th and Oct 8th with max of six Jun 28th - Jul 6th and Aug 18th. Hayle Est: c.31 between Jun 30th and Oct 22nd with max of 19 Aug 2nd. Tamar Lakes: c.16 between Jul 4th and Oct 16th with max of six Aug 8th to 13th. Stithians Res: c.13 between Jul 6th and Sept 22nd with max of eight Jul 25th. Ruan Lanihorne: c.ll between Jul 8th and Sept 6th with max of seven Aug 25th to 29th. Drift Res: c.27 between Jul 12th and Oct 1st with max of 14 Jul 19th. Tamar Est: c.35 between Jul 15th and Oct 28th with max of 27 Aug 4th. Other maxima included five at Lynher Est. Jul 22nd and five at Colliford Res. Aug 4th. In the second winter period singles were reported from Lynher Est., Fowey Est., Gerrans, Tresillian, Helford Est. and College Res. and two at Tamar Est.

74 Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 4 3 4 5 2 - 45 29 7 10 7 11 TURNSTONE - Arenaria interpres

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. Rare inland. First winter flocks were the largest for several years, but spring passage was again poor. Birds summered at Par and Mevagissey and many returning birds were noted in July. As usual, autumn and second winter flocks were smaller. Maximum numbers: Looe: 117 January, 78 Sept 7th, 80 December. Tamar Est: 91 January, 115 October (the second largest and largest flocks ever here). Camel Est: 170 Jan 13th ( a record count here), 60 October. Loe Bar: 32 February. Portscatho: 72 Mar 15th (record count here), 25 Oct 1st. Devoran: 36 Sept 23rd Mounts Bay: 50 Sept 28th. Mevagissey: 43 Oct 10th. St Johns Lake: 65 Nov 1st. Godrevy: 31 Nov 9th. Inland: Stithians Res: one Aug 18th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 1st. Predannack: three Oct 27th. Unusual was one feeding on top of an Inter City 125 locomotive at Penzance Nov 4th. SL.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 149 112 112 59 - - 20 72 107 213 122 92 WILSON'S PHALAROPE - Phalaropus tricolor

Rare vagrant. Loe Pool: one Aug 18th. SB. Hayle Est: one Aug 18th - 30th DSF. et al.

Wilson's Phalarope Steve Bird

75 Accepted by BBRC. The same bird involved in both sightings takes the county mainland total to c.22 - all since 1961. This is the earliest ever in autumn. Monthly breakdown: Jun - one, Aug - six, Sept - 12, Oct - three. Top sites: Hayle Est., Camel Est. and Stithians Res. - three each, Maer Lake, Crowdy Res. and Marazion Marsh - two each.

GREY PHALAROPE - Phalaropus fulicarius

Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Three in the first winter period and c.67 in autumn. Mevagissey: one Jan 2nd. Mounts Bay: one Jan 29th. Camel Est: one Feb 6th. Newquay: singles Sept 6th and Nov 17th. St Ives: c.27 between Sept 19th and Nov 2nd with max of ten Oct 3rd and six Oct 31st. Pendeen: c.32 between Oct 3rd and Nov 24th with max of 16 Oct 3rd and seven Nov 24th. Godrevy: five Oct 6th. Porthgwarra: one Oct 15th. The county mainland total advances to c.3666 since 1930. 66% of all autumn birds were noted during the gales of Oct 3rd - 7th. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 31, Feb - ten, Mar - three, Apr - one, Jul - one, Aug - 44, Sept - 1022, Oct - 1894 (52%), Nov - 532, Dec - 128. Top sites: St Ives - 2662 (73%), Newquay - 202, Penden - 197 and Mounts Bay - 152.

POMARINE SKUA - Stercorarius pomarinus

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. Eight in spring but only 37 in an autumn lacking significant gales - the lowest cumulative total since 1984. Killigerran Head: three west May 15th. PAM Rame Head: four adults west Jun 9th, juvenile west Jul 29th. EJW et al. Mevagissey: one west Jun 18th. RL. Porthgwarra: two Jun 24th, juvenile Jul 29th and three Aug 19th. JH.SJC. Pendeen: singles Aug 16th and Sept 19th, six Oct 27th. JFR.MS.DL.GCS.AMH. Rumps Point: singles Aug 27th and Dec 27th. DL.CW.EG. St Ives: 17 west between Sept 5th and Dec 27th with max of seven Oct 31st. DSF.SGR.DEB.VRT.NJP.PTS. et al. Newquay: one west Oct 6th. PAM. Godrevy: two west Oct 31st. MS. Data prior to 1906 is extremely sketchy and none was reported in the county between 1906 and 1950. The county mainland total since 1950 stands at c.1528. The birds of Dec 27th were the latest ever (apart from winter records). Monthly breakdown: Jan - five, Feb - four, Apr - 26, May - 231, Jun - 27, Jul - 28, Aug - 121, Sept - 296, Oct - 579, Nov - 190 and Dec - 21. Top sites: St Ives - 728 (48%), Pendeen - 165, Rame Head - 117, Rosemullion - 68 and Newquay - 53.

ARCTIC SKUA - Stercorarius parasiticus

Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Extremely rare winter visitor. The first in spring was one off Rame Head Apr 28th - the latest arrival since 1975. It was also the poorest spring total since 1978 with a mere five birds reported - all off the south coast. Autumn passage was predictably disappointing in the settled conditions. A total of c.250 birds was reported with the last off Newquay Nov 8th. Of these, c.56 moved

76 through Aug 15th - 18th, 65 Sept 5th - 7th and 23 Oct 6th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: 11 between Apr 28th and Aug 25th with max of four Jul 7th. Mevagissey: 12 between Jun 24th and Aug 19th with max of five Aug 19th. Porthgwarra: 17 between Jul 28th and Oct 13th with max of eight Aug 19th. St Ives: 95 between Aug 6th and Nov 6th with max of seven Aug 20th, 25 Sept 6th, 12 Sept 7th, seven Oct 6th and six Oct 31st. Newquay: seven between Aug 16th and Nov 8th - all singles except two Sept 6th. Pendeen: 84 between Aug 16th and Oct 31st with max of ten Aug 17th, 11 Sept 5th, seven Oct 3rd and seven Oct 31st. Rumps Point: singles Aug 21st and Oct 16th. Cape Cornwall: eight Aug 30th, two Sept 7th. There was also four off Gurnards Head Sept 22nd and five off Godrevy Oct 6th plus singles at eight other sites.

LONG-TAILED SKUA - Stercorarius longicaudus

Rare passage migrant. Penlee Point: adult s.p. Jul 7th. RWW Porthgwarra: adult Jul 29th. SJC.DSF.RW. St Ives: adult Sept 21st. DSF.EG.JG.SGR. RMV Scillonian: adult Sept 26th. JAJ. Pendeen: one Oct 6th. JFR.ABR. The county mainland total advances to c.l 14 (but many of these will no doubt have been observed off more than one seawatching site). The July records are the first for that month and the earliest ever in autumn. Monthly breakdown: May - three, Jun - two, Jul - two, Aug - 14, Sept - 67 (59%), Oct - 22, Nov - four. Top sites: St Ives - 52 (46%), Pendeen - 34 (30%), Newquay - six and Porthgwarra - five.

GREAT SKUA - Catharacta skua

Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Uncommon winter visitor. c.55 birds were reported during the first winter gales with birds observed on 15 dates between Jan 1st and Feb 28th. Conversely, there were only two singles in spring and a mere c.208 were reported in autumn between Jul 1st and Nov 24th. There was also two off St Ives Dec 27th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Mevagissey: one Jan 1st, two Jan 26th and singles Jul 23rd and Oct 13th. St Ives: 14 between Jan 16th and Feb 27th with max of four Feb 12th. c.67 in autumn between Aug 15th and Oct 31st with max of 18 Sept 6th and eight Sept 21st. Newquay: 11 between Jan 19th and Feb 28th with max of six Jan 25th. Five in autumn between Sept 15th and Oct 31st. Pendeen: two Feb 8th. 80 in autumn between Jul 1st and Nov 24th with max of nine Oct 3rd and 33 Oct 6th. Cape Cornwall: 25 in February including 16 Feb 26th. Ten in autumn between Aug 30th and Oct 4th with max of six Sept 6th. Rame Head: singles Apr 15th and Aug 18th, two Oct 16th. Porthgwarra: 17 between Jul 28th and Oct 11th with max of seven Aug 19th. Lizard: three Aug 8th, one Oct 16th. Godrevy: 13 between Sept 22nd and Oct 31st with max of seven Oct 16th. Lesser numbers at seven other sites.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL - Larus melanocephalus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Undoubtedly a record year with possibly as many as 90 birds involved in numerous sightings. However the exact total is impossible to assess because of the mobility of the species between sites. 77 The nine main sites are listed first. Many of the succeeding records will have concerned birds which emanated from those localities. St Johns Lake and environs: adult from 1989 - Jan 14th. Adults Jul 21st - Aug 21st and Sept 25th - Oct 12th. Two adults Nov 10th with one into 1991. Second winters Aug 23rd to 25th, Sept 23rd, Oct 30th to Nov 18th and Dec 31st. First winter/summer Apr 28th to May 19th and another May 12th to Aug 27th. (Possibly nine birds involved). Mounts Bay: adult from 1989 - Jan 24th. Adults Jan 12th - 18th, Jan 18th, Feb 18th and Mar 4th/5th. Adults Jul 14th - Dec 31st, Jul 20th and Sept 3rd. Second winter Jan 1st - 4th, Mar 10th and Sept 25th - Dec 9th. First summer Jul 23rd. First winters Jan 12th - 14th, Feb 10th, Mar 11th - 18th, Sept 16th and Dec 5th. Juvenile Jul 20th. (Perhaps 15 birds involved). Bude: adult from 1989 - Jan 17th, another Feb 24th. Loe Pool: adults Jan 4th to 14th, Feb 18th to 25th and Oct 9th to 14th. Second winter Jan 1st. First winters Jan 4th, Jan 5th, Feb 18th to Mar 2nd, Sept 25th, Oct 11th to 17th, Oct 13th and Dec 22nd. (Possibly 10+ birds involved). Par: two adults Feb 4th, adult Aug 27th to Sept 13th. Second winter Oct 9th to 17th. Second summer Jul 16th. First winter Mar 17th, Oct 21st to 24th, Oct 29th and Nov 16th. Juvenile Sept 11th. (At least nine birds involved). Hayle Est: adults Feb 24th/25th, Jul 2nd to Dec 4th, Aug 31st to Sept 21st and Dec 4th. Second summer Jun 30th. Second winters Jan 12th, Aug 23rd - Sept 21st and two Oct 13th. First winters Mar 18th, Sept 16th and Oct 16th to 29th. (Possibly 12 birds involved). Camel Est: adult Aug 23rd. Second winter Feb 26th. First winters Jan 29th to Feb 26th and Feb 26th. Juvenile Aug 23rd (Five birds. Note the arrival of the adult and the juvenile in August). Falmouth: Five adults, one second winter and three first winters identified between Nov 1st and the end of the year. Newquay: First winters Aug 16th to Sept 22nd and Oct 31st to Nov 2nd. Juvenile Sept 3rd. Drift Res: adults Mar 5th, Jul 21st and Nov 12th. Second winter Oct 8th. First winters Nov 2nd and Dec 7th. Mullion: Second winter Jan 14th, adult Feb 15th. Porthleven: First winter Mar 5th to 17th, but four first winters Mar 6th. Reskajeage: first winters Jan 10th and Mar 13th. Porth Joke: first winter Jan 15th. Restronguet: adult Jul 12th. Porth Res: juvenile Aug 11th. Pentewan: first winter Sept 24th/25th. St Ives: first winter Oct 1st. Helston: two first winters Oct 11th. Argal Res: adult Oct 16th. Crowan Res: adult Oct 25th. Sennen: first winter Oct 25th, adults Nov 7th and Dec 16th. Penlee Point: second winter Dec 1st. Stithians Res: adult Dec 16th. East Looe: adult Dec 22nd. The increase in the number of birds recorded is well illustrated by the decade averages. From 1961 to 1970 there was an average of 4.2 per annum, from 1971 to 1980 an average of 16.7 per annum and from 1981 to 1990 an average of 52.3 per annum.

LAUGHING GULL - Larus atricilla

Very rare vagrant. Polperro: adult summer plumage May 7th. DM. Mounts Bay: same bird May 8th to 9th. MS et al. Accepted by BBRC. The third county mainland record - previous sightings in 1977 and 1980.

78 LITTLE GULL - Larus minutus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. In the best year for the species since 1979, at least three overwintered from 1989 and a further 21 birds arrived up to Feb 27th. Spring passage commenced with one at Lynher Est Mar 14th and ended with one at Newquay May 10th. A total of c.77 was reported; possibly the best spring passage since 1979. Conversely, autumn passage was light consisting of c.31 birds between Aug 11th and Nov 17th. There was only a single reported in the second winter. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Newquay: one Jan 1st, two first winters Jan 26th/27th, adult Feb 12th, first winter May 10th, two juveniles Sept 5th/6th, first winter Oct 3rd. Porthleven: first winter Jan 1st to 13th, adult Jan 14th, first winter Feb 20th, 12 (six adults, two second winter and four first summer) May 2nd. Mounts Bay: adults Jan 4th to 14th and Feb 18th to Apr 1st, first winter Feb 15th to Apr 1st and Sept 5th. Sennen Cove: first winter Jan 4th, adult and first winter Oct 21st. Loe Pool: first winter Jan 8th and Feb 18th to 23rd, adult Feb 23rd, first summer Mar 18th to 24th, 30 (a mixture of adults and first winters) Apr 1st SFJ, adult and first winter May 1st. St Ives: first winter Jan 25th, adult Feb 5th to 20th, first winter Sept 6th, juvenile Oct 4th, one Oct 9th, two Oct 28th and one Nov 2nd. Hayle Est: adult Jan 5th, first winter Feb 17th to 24th, first winters Sept 7th and 30th. Maer Lake: adults Feb 7th and Oct 20th. Par: first winter Feb 11th and 27th, second winter Apr 2nd, adult Apr 8th, first winter Aug 31st and juvenile Sept 15th. St Johns Lake: two first winters Feb 16th, with one to 23rd, adult Apr 2nd, first winter Aug 22nd. Colliford Res: second summer May 6th, juvenile Aug 11th. Falmouth: 25 (all first summers) May 7th, one Nov 16th. Pendeen: singles west Oct 4th, Oct 31st, Nov 16th, Nov 17th and Dec 27th. Godrevy: singles west Oct 27th and 31st. 1989 Tamar Est: first winter Mar 6th to Apr 9th.

SABINE'S GULL - Larus sabini

Scarce passage migrant (mainly September/October). St Ives: ten west between Aug 15th and Oct 31st with max of three Sept 19th. DSF.GGG.EGG.SGR. et al. Pendeen: one west Sept 6th DJB, two west Oct 3rd. SMC.JH.ABR.JFR.MS. The county mainland total advances to c.852 (involving at least 686 birds). Top sites: St Ives - 527 (62%), Pendeen - 119, Newquay - 90, Cape Cornwall - 17 and Godrevy - 16.

BONAPARTE'S GULL - Larus Philadelphia

Rare vagrant. Sennen: first winter Jan 14th DSF.MRK.ES. Marazion Marsh/Long Rock Pool: first winter Feb 8th BC, same or another Feb 15th MS, same or another Mar 7th to 25th and another Mar 11th to 17th. JFR.MS.SMC. EJC.JH. et al. Gunwalloe: first winter Feb 22nd. ARP. Drift Res: first winter Feb 24th and Mar 5th. JH. Loe Pool: first winter Mar 15th BC. St Johns Lake/Millbrook: first summer May 4th SCM and presumably the same in second winter plumage Jul 22nd to Sept 9th. KP.RWG.SCM et al. Presumably the Sennen, first Marazion and Drift sightings relate to the same bird

79 and the Gunwalloe and second Marazion sightings relate to another. The others are believed to have been different, although the St Johns Lake bird was probably one of the earlier arrivals. There may have been as many as six birds involved, but BBRC are still attempting to sort them out.

Sabine 's Gull Ren Hathway

BLACK-HEADED GULL - Larus ridibundus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred at Stithians Reservoir 1967 to 1969 and at Crowdy Reservoir 1976 to 1987. Although 153 birds were counted at Crowdy Res. Mar 14th, there was no later information and no proof of breeding. At Colliford Res 200 adults with 20 young were observed Jun 23rd - the first proof of breeding here. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: 11000 roosting Jan 7th, 8500 Feb 26th, 4000 Nov 18th. St Johns Lake: 8350 Jan, 3500 Aug, 2050 Nov. Lynher Est: 1025 Jan, 5420 Aug. Tamar Est: 3500 Jan, 3120 Aug. Bude: 3500 Jan 7th, 3000 Dec 29th. Devoran: 1200 Jan 14th, 750 Nov 18th. Hayle Est: 970 Jan 14th, 1300 Aug. Helford Est: 1000 Jan 16th, 550 Aug. Truro River: 750 Feb 10th, 650 Aug 19th. Tresillian: 1016 Aug. Fowey Est: 1000 Aug 12th. Ruan Lanihorne: 800 Sept 6th. Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 24479 11594 3285 1675 568 585 15624 20274 10726 12437 11254 8 8822 Hayle Est 970 404 108 1 13 2 839 1300 848 454 620 175

80 Helford Est 1000 450 25 - - - 180 550 350 250 450 450 Devoran 1200 450 47 22 5 52 650 500 200 550 750 300 Tresillian 266 222 4 - 6 2 526 1016 450 289 357 214 Camel Est 1793 429 241 220 28 19 866 1082 1746 851 2125 538 Tamar Est 3500 1650 550 400 187 133 2625 3120 1850 1619 1686 776 Lynher Est 1025 817 225 182 86 164 2042 5420 1225 1499 894 540 St Johns Lake 8350 3992 1495 450 100 151 3204 3500 1800 1500 2050 1719 RING-BILLED GULL - Larus delawarensis

Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Since the first record in 1979 the species has been annual, apart from 1980. Par: four birds (one third winter, one second winter and two first winters) overwintered from 1989. The third winter may have been the bird which was later reported as an adult and was present sporadically until Sept 7th. The second winter remained until Feb 9th and the same or another was present Apr 7th to 29th and may have been the bird aged as a second summer Jun 18th, Aug 6th and Sept 7th. The two first winters were noted until Jan 20th and Apr 29th respectively. In the second half of the year a third winter was noted Oct 1st to Dec 31st. (Possibly only one new bird involved). RL.SMC.GRW.MW. et al. Hayle Est./Copperhouse: a second winter from 1989 was noted until Apr 1st. Adult Jan 21st to Apr 21st, another Apr 21st and the same or another Aug 5th into 1991, another Nov 10 to 18th. First winters Jan 11th to May 15th, Feb 18th to Apr 1st, Mar 15th to May 31st and one which moulted through first summer to second winter Apr 1st into 1991. (Difficult to determine which was which). DSF.JH.JFR. et al. St Just Airfield: first winter Jan 6th. JFR.MS. Lynher Est: second winter Jan 22nd GDL first winter Dec 16th BCh.MP. Mounts Bay: first winter Jan 20th and Mar 13th to 18th. JFR.MS.JH. Saltash: first winter Feb 2nd. PJR. Loe Pool: first winter Feb 24th SB. Drift Res: first winters Mar 6th to 9th and Nov 10th. JFR Devoran: adult and first summer Mar 21st. BC. Swanpool/Falmouth: third winter Mar 25th BRF.RWW. First winters Nov 22nd into 1991 and Nov 24th to Dec 4th. JMW.JRMcC. St Johns Lake: first winters Mar 11th to May 13th and Mar 18th to May 13th, second winter Apr 8th to 16th. RWG.KP.DIPB.EG. et al. First winter late Dec. MP et al. Truro River: second winter Dec 31st into 1991. NAC. Another record breaking year with perhaps as many as 27 new birds, but very difficult to assess because of the species' mobility. The county mainland total moves to c.140. Monthly breakdown; Jan - 22, Feb - 26, Mar - 34, Apr - 15, May - three, Aug - two, Sept - one, Oct - four, Nov - 12, Dec - 21. Age breakdown (upon first arrival); first winter - 74 (53%), first summer - six, second winter - 18, second summer - two, third winter - four, sub-adult - three, adult — 33. Top sites: Hayle Est/Copperhouse - 30, Mounts Bay — 24, Par - 15, St Johns Lake -13, Swanpool/Falmouth - 12.

COMMON GULL - Larus canus Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. A better year than 1988 or 1989, particularly in the first winter period. The last in spring was one at Millbrook Apr 8th and the first in autumn were four at Camel Est. Jun 30th. Autumn passage went almost un-noticed with no appreciable numbers until mid- November. Maximum numbers: Tamar Est: 718 Jan, 538 Mar, 190 Nov.

81 Loe Pool: 133 Jan 2nd. Camel Est: 450 Jan 7th, 550 Feb 26th, 170 Nov 18th. Bude: 100 Nov 7th. Mounts Bay: 500 Jan 11th. St Austell Bay: 500 Nov 26th. Lynher Est: 220 Dec. Unusual was an adult at Par Dec 16th which was slightly larger than standard with a very dark mantle and heavily streaked, blackish head (Possibly 'Larus canus heini'). RL Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 1723 180 612 25 - - 7 10 49 101 326 366 Camel Est 229 10 27 - - - - 2 3 26 95 52 St Johns Lake 700 8 530 20 - - 2 4 40 10 128 143 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus fuscus Resident. Breeds in low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Single pairs were reported breeding at Par Docks and The Sisters, Bossinney. In the first winter period migrants were in evidence from late January with a rapid build up in February but an equally hasty departure by the end of March. Autumn passage was poor with few reported until November. Maximum numbers: Hayle Est: 767 Jan 12th, 550 Dec 10th. Gannel Est: 250 Feb 5th, 106 Nov 13th. Camel Est: 1900 Feb 26th (the third highest count ever in Cornwall). 116 Dec 8th. Porthpean: 800 Feb 28th. 400 Nov 18th. Colliford Res: 1885 Nov 3rd (the fourth largest count ever in Cornwall). Birds showing characteristics of the South Scandinavian race 'L. f. intermedius' were reported from: Par: four Sept 3rd and up to six regularly Nov 2nd to Dec 26th. RL. Birds showing characteristics of the North Scandinavian race 'L. f. fuscus' were reported from: Hayle Est: adult Mar 11th. DJA.MKA.PASP.RWW. Camel Est: adult Apr 4th. PAM. Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 916 575 1560 97 26 21 26 93 45 97 211 153 Hayle Est. 240 318 450 40 14 10 - 50 25 23 60 80 Camel Est. 468 95 851 9 1 - - 1 1 10 55 18 HERRING GULL - Larus argentatus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. There has been a dramatic decline in the population of this species, not only locally, but also nationally. The reason for this decrease is not fully understood. On the north coast breeding was reported from; Cape Cornwall — one nest, Godrevy Island - three nests, Pentire Point to Ranie Point - 157 nests and Trewethett - five nests. On the south coast roof nesting was noted at Penryn, three roof nests were observed at Fowey, 30+ roof nests were counted at Par and a roof nest was built at Trevarrick Road, St Austell. Finally a pair nested in a disused chimney stack at Par. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: 450 January, 404 April, 556 November. Hayle Est: 286 Jan 14th, 428 Apr 13th, 566 July, 480 Oct 14th. Ruan Lanihorne: 231 Jan 15th. Gannel Est: 1700 Feb 5th, 700 Nov 13th Porthpean: 1000 Feb 28th. St John's Lake: 262 May, 480 September. Par: 600 Nov 8th, 500 Dec 26th. Birds showing characteristics of the Scandinavian race 'L. a argentatus'. were reported as follows: Porthpean: two adults Feb 28th. RL. Par: single adults Sept 3rd and 9th. RL. St Just 'Airfield: adult Oct 15th. GJC. Hayle Est: adult Dec 6th SMC. Looe: third winter Dec 26th EJW. Lynher Est: adult Dec 31st. SCM. Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1990

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County Total 1667 778 1257 1998 1251 1377 1813:202 5 1857 1767 1743 1669 Hayle Est 286 184 171 428 250 117 566 350 463 150 217 158 Ruan Lanihorne 231 48 141 30 38 63 110 110 166 110 83 Camel Est 450 99 249- 404 218 258 382 210 47 311 556 534 St Johns Lake 66 91 65 200 262 412 161 285 480 140 266 295

YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING GULL - Larus argentatus/cachicanns Vagrant. Birds showing characteristics of one or other of the yellow - legged races of Herring Gull (which must surely be seperated in the near future) were reported as follows: Lynher Est: adult Jan 14th GDL. St Johns Lake/Millbrook: adults Feb 3rd and Oct 24th. First winter Mar 24th - May 22nd. EJW.GJC.RWG.SCM. Newlyn: adult Feb 11th and Mar 5th.MS. Porthleven: adult May 17th. JFR. Par: fourth winter Oct 15th - 21st, third winter Dec 1st, adult Dec 3rd. RL. Gunwalloe: adult Nov 8th. SB. A record year. The county mainland total advances to C.29 - all but two since 1983. Monthly breakdown: Jan - three, Feb - three, Mar - three, May - one, Aug - three, Sept - two, Oct - seven, Nov - three, Dec - four. Age breakdown (on first arrival): first winter - three, second winter - one, second summer - one, third winter - three, fourth winter - one and adult - 20 Top sites: St Johns Lake/Millbrook: - seven, Looe - five, Colliford Res. and Par - three each.

ICELAND GULL - Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Swanpool: adult Jan 20th - 30th. BC. Penryn: second winter Mar 3rd. BKM. Looe: third winter/adult Mar 4th - 24th and Apr 13th. First winter Dec 28th/29th. RWW.RWG.SCM.SMC. Loe Pool: first summer Apr 5th. SB. St Ives: first winter Dec 30th. EGG.GGG. Newquay: first winter Dec 30th into 1991. DAC.GJC. The county mainland total moves to c.237, 67% of which have occured during the last decade. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 66, Feb - 57, Mar - 41, Apr - 33, May - 12, Jun - one, Oct - three, Nov - one, Dec - 23. Top sites: Mounts Bay - 58, Falmouth - 49, Hayle Est. - 30, St Ives - 16, Drift Res. - ten.

83 GLAUCOUS GULL - Larus hyperboreus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. St. Ives: second winter Feb 7th - 24th. DSF et al. Poldhu/Loe Bar/Gunwalloe: first summer Feb 15th - 22nd. ARP.SB. Camel Est: first winter Feb 25th - 28th. KN.SMC. Newquay: second winter Feb 26th. EJC. Hayle Est: second winter Feb 27th - Mar 4th. (The St Ives bird). DSF et al. Porthgwarra: second/third year bird Apr 18th. ICW. Rame Head: second winter Sept 15th. DRCo. Lands End: second/third winter Oct 28th. MDJ. Mounts Bay: second winter Dec 27th. MS. The county mainland total stands at c.381 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 126 (33%), Feb - 86, Mar - 46, Apr - 22, May - 13, Jun - two, Jul - one, Aug - two, Sept - five, Oct - 11, Nov - 26, Dec - 41. Top sites:. Mounts Bay - 97, Hayle Est - 52, Falmouth - 49, St Ives - 44, Porthgwarra - 13. GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus marinus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported only from Godrevy Island where there was two occupied nests and Black Head, St Austell where one young one was reared. Once again first winter flocks were small and apart from a large flock at Camel Est. spring passage was light. In autumn there was a dearth of records for Aug/Sept, but a small movement was reported in October. Second winter flocks were also small. Maximum numbers: Ruan Lanihorne; 121 January, 195 Oct 22nd. Hayle Est: 100 Feb 12th, 147 Jul 22nd, 103 Oct 4th. Camel Est: 650 Mar 8th. Rame Head: 300 east Oct 13th. Looe: 160 Dec 16th. Monthly B.O.E.E. accounts at the principal localities 1990 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 574 305 394 151 85 107 123 447 330 472 428 528 Hayle Est. 51 100 42 8 17 15 147 104 46 12 81 29 Ruan Lanihorne. 121 34 7 11 31 67 36 80 195 55 182 Camel Est. 265 76 18-6 76 20 31 24 44 34 89 99 96 St Johns Lake. 20 8 60 8 9 13 34 50 58 58 77 46 KITTIWAKE - Rissa tridactyla Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Breeding season records were received from: Ranie Point to Pentire Point: 365 birds on ledges. Newquay: 500+ pairs, but considerable disturbance from youths diving off adjacent rocks. Lands End: 'colony' Nare Head: 120 birds on ledges. Manare Point: 50 nests. Jacka Point: 100 nests. Gorran Head: 200+ birds on ledges. Heavy passage was noted during the severe gales of late January and February. Autumn passage was generally light until late October. Overall, the numbers reported were the highest since 1979. Maximum numbers: Newquay: 1900 (one hour), Jan 25th 1256 west + 2000 in the Bay Feb 27th, 3704 (three hours) Oct 31st, 1744 (two hours) Nov 14th - all west Porthpean: 2000 roosting Jan 29th.

84 Mevagissey: 350 per hour Jan 30th, 500 per hour Dec 28th - all west. Looe: 5000 west Feb 4th. Cape Cornwall: 2900 (five hours) Feb 8th, 1270 (three hours) Feb 12th, 1130 (six hours) Feb 26th. Of these, 17%, 10% and 13% respectively, were first winter birds. BC. St Ives: 2500 per hour Oct 27th, 20000 Oct 31st - all west. Pendeen: 5000 Oct 27th, 7830 Oct 31st - all west. Trevose Head: 2150 west in one hour Nov 18th. Pentewan: 1700 west in one hour Dec 28th.

SANDWICH TERN - Sterna sandvicensis Passage migrant Spring passage commenced with one at Camel Est. Mar 11th equalling the previous earliest record, but there was no more until two arrived in St Austell Bay Mar 20th. It was a poor spring migration with only 13 reported in March and no double - figure counts until Apr 5th. Passage ended with one at St Ives May 29th and the first return bird was one at Camel Est. Jun 12th. There was a small arrival on the south coast Jul 29th and a good passage off both coasts in late August. Last was one at Lynher Est. Nov 3rd. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Hayle Est: 13 Apr 5th, eight Jul 26th and Sept 16th. Falmouth: ten Apr 11th. Mevagissey: 20 west in one hour Apr 14th. Perranporth: 18 Apr 15th. St. Ives: ten Apr 19th and a total of 209 west between Aug 26th and Oct 7th with max of 80 Aug 30th, 30 Sept 6th and 40 Sept 19th. Mounts Bay: ten May 3rd. St Austell Bay: 22 May 4th, 12 May 18th, 15 Jul 29th and 30 Sept 12th. St John Lake: 28 Jul 1st, 31 Jul 29th and 64 Aug 20th. Camel Est: 37 Aug 13th. Rame Head: 30 west Aug 27th. Rumps Point: 43 west Aug 30th. Pendeen: 22 Oct 4th ROSEATE TERN - Sterna dougallii

Scarce passage migrant Mounts Bay: singles May 14th and Jul 13th. JFR.MS. Par: singles May 17th - 19th, May 31st - Jun 3rd and Sept 11th. RL.SMC.EMC.GRW.MW. Porthkidney Sands/Hayle Est: two Jul 20th, one Jul 23rd. DL.DSF. Loe Pool: one Aug 23rd RB. 1989 St Johns Lake: adult Jul 14th - 16th. RWG.SCM.RS. et al. (This bird was included in the relevant totals but was inadvertantly omitted from the Report). The county mainland total advances to c.754 - all but two since 1951. 172 (23%) have occured on spring passage and 582 (77%) have occured on autumn passage. Monthly breakdown: Apr - 32, May - 112, Jun - 28, Jul - 124, Aug - 144, Sept - 273, Oct - 40, not dated - one. Top sites: St Ives 399 (53%), Hayle Est/Porthkidney Sands - 195, Newquay - 28, Par - 25, Porthgwarra - 22, and St Johns Lake - 21.

85 COMMON TERN - Sterna hirundo

Passage migrant Spring passage commenced with five flying west off Mevagissy Apr 14th followed by five off Cot Valley and one off Lizard Point Apr 20th. The only other report for April was of ten at Loe Pool on 30th. Apart from a sizable influx at Loe Pool, passage remained light throughout May and June, before the first return birds were reported Jul 1st. Autumn passage was equally unimpressive with notable influxes Jul 20th - 27th, Aug 19th - 22nd and Sept 8th only. The last were three off Pendeen Oct 27th. Maximum numbers: Loe Pool: ten Apr 30th, 34 May 1st and 82 May 2nd. Rame Head: 15 May 13th. Mounts Bay: 46 May 14th. Par: ten May 15th, 20 May 19th, ten June 13th/14th. Mevagissey: 25 west May 29th, 26 Aug 19th, 11 Aug 27th. St Ives: C.183 west between Jul 1st and Oct 7th with max of 36 Jul 1st, 58 Jul 20th and 50 Aug 3rd. Hayle Est: 35 Jul 7th, 46 Jul 27th. Porth Joke: 25 Jul 14th. Porthgwarra: 15 Jul 21st. Hayle Est: 46 Jul 27th. Stithians Res: 11 Aug 21st (a high count inland). Tamar Est: 40 Sept 8th. No other site attracted more than ten together. ARCTIC TERN - Sterna paradisaea

Uncommon passage migrant Spring passage commenced with 23 at Loe Pool Apr 30th. The following day this flock had increased to 35 SB but elsewhere there were only three other reports; two off Rame Head May 13th EJW, one at Mounts Bay May 14th MS and two at Par May 19th.RL. Autumn passage commenced with four at St Johns Lake Jul 1st and ended with three at St Ives and one off Pendeen Oct 6th. It proved to be a light passage involving c.58 birds. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Ives: c.13 between Jul 1st and Oct 6th with max of five Sept 6th. St Johns Lake: four singles between Jul 1st and Aug 20th. Pendeen: c.33 west between Sept 19th and Oct 6th with max of 14 Sept 19th and 12 Oct 3rd. One or two were noted at Porth Joke, Hayle Est., Tamar Est. and Loe Pool. Inland there was a single at Drift Res. Sept 17th - 21st.

FORSTER'S TERN - Sterna forsteri Very rare vagrant. Par: sub-adult Oct 9th. RL.GRW.MW. The fourth county mainland record - all since 1980. Accepted by BBRC. LITTLE TERN - Sterna albifrons Uncommon passage migrant. The first in spring was one at Loe Pool Apr 30th (the latest arrival since 1965). A dismal total of six birds was reported with the last at St John Lake May 7th. Singles at Mounts Bay June 19th and Par June 20th were presumably non-breeders. A total of 17 was noted in autumn - the lowest number since 1981. Loe Pool: one Apr 30th, four May 1st and one Sept 29th. SB.AH. St Johns Lake: three May 5th with one to 7th, one Jul 23rd and two Sept 15th. RWG.SC.EJW. Mounts Bay: singles Jun 19th to 22nd and Sept 17th. MS.DSF. Par: singles Jun 20th and Jul 8th . EMC.SMC.RL. Tamar Est: one Jul 6th. JMC. Godrevy: one Jul 14th. PAR. Porthkidney Sands: five Jul 20th. DL. Rame Head: one flew east Aug 18th. EJW. Rumps Point: one flew west Aug 30th. DLo.CW. Helford Est: one Sept 29th. AH. BLACK TERN - Chlidonias niger Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rame Head: two east May 5th, one May 7th, two May 13th. DRC.EJW. Loe Pool: seven May 1st, one on 2nd and eight on 3rd. One Aug 25th. SB.BC. Tamar Lakes: one Aug 12th/13th, two Aug 28th. FAD.RMRJ.FHCK. St Johns Lake: ten Aug 24th, four to 25th. AJ.DM. Crowdy Res: 46 Aug 24th per BTC. Colliford Res: three Aug 26th with one to 27th. JS.RSt.RWG. Hayle Est: four Aug 28th, one Sept 23rd. DSF. Pendeen: one Sept 5th. MS. Newquay: one Sept 6th. RL. St Ives: four Sept 6th, one Sept 7th. DSF.HRH.SGR. The best year since 1986 with up to 20 in spring and 76 in autumn. However the number of localities attracting birds was small and had it not been for the excellent congregation at Crowdy Res. and good numbers at Loe Pool and St Johns Lake the total would have been considerably reduced. WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN - Chlidonias leucopterus Rare vagrant. Tamar Est: adult in summer plumage Apr 21st. per CFNHC. The 17th county mainland record. Monthly breakdown: Apr - one, May - four, Jul - two, Aug - two, Sept - six, Oct - one, not dated - one. Accepted by BBRC.

GUILOEMOT - Una aalge Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season reports were received from: The Sisters: 104 on ledges Jun 10th. Long Island: 45 on ledges Jun 10th. Short Island: 30 on ledges Jun 10th. Bounds Cliff: 11 nest sites. Pentireglaze: 25 nest sites. Nare Head: 40 on ledges Mar 20th. Good numbers were identified off the north coast during the February gales, but later in the year there was a dearth of information. Maximum numbers: Cape Cornwall: 6000 (5 hours) Feb 8th, 2240 (3 hours) Feb 12th, 4790 (6 hours) Feb 26th - all west. Newquay: 1600 west Feb 8th. St Ives: 465 west Apr 19th. Unusual was a wholly white auk which was thought to be this species, off Rame Head May 5th. SCM.

87 RAZORBILL - Alca torda Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season reports were received from: The Sisters: 24 on ledges and sea Jun 10th. Long Island: 15 on ledges Jun 10th. Short Island: 50 on ledges Jun 10th. Bounds Cliff: 17 nests. Tresungers Point: 17 nests. Cligga Head: present but not counted. Not as numerous as Guillemot during the February gales and very few positively identified later in the year (but see Auk sp.) Maximum numbers: St Austell Bay: 295 close inshore Jan/Mar. Cape Cornwall: 250 (3 hours) Feb 12th, 530 (6 hours) Feb 26th - all west. Auk sp. (Guillemot/Razorbill). Mevagissey: noted regularly January - June with max of 300 per hour west Mar 15th. Pendeen: 1050 Oct 30th (90% Razorbill). 7650 Oct 31st (60% Razorbill). St. Ives: 35000 Oct 31st (90% Razorbill).

BLACK GUILLEMOT - Cepphus grylle Rare visitor and passage migrant Mevagissey: one flew west Oct 15th. RL. The county mainland total stands at 38. Monthly breakdown: Jan - six, Feb - four, Mar - four, Apr - five, Sept - three, Oct - three, Nov - four, Dec - five, not dated - four. Top sites: St Ives - 13, Falmouth - seven. LITTLE AUK - Alle alle

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Occasional 'wrecks'. Mevagissey: one Jan 25th/26th. BA Camel Est: one Feb 3rd. RDu.ADu. Cape Cornwall: one dead Feb 21st, one west Feb 26th. RJH.BC. Bude: one Feb 26th. IK. Pentewan: singles Oct 8th and Nov 25th. RL.PWS. Rumps Point: one Oct 16th, eleven Dec 27th. GJC.EG. Pendeen: one Oct 27th, two Oct 31st. GCS.MS. Newquay: single Oct 31st, Nov 14th and Dec 25th, seven Dec 26th. SMC.EJC.RW. Godrevy: one Oct 31st. MS. St Ives: six Oct 31st, five Nov 2nd, three Nov 17th and ten Dec 27th. DJB.DEB.DE.EG.VRT.JH.GRW.MW.NJP.et al. Tregoose, Newquay: one found dead Nov 1st. BR. Mounts Bay: one Nov 4th. MS. Falmouth: one Nov 25th - Dec 3rd. JW.DMY. et al. Trevose Head: two Nov 26th. SMC. Par: two Dec 2nd. LAS.FMS. Feock: one Dec 24th. RJH. Looe: one Dec 26th, three Dec 28th, two Dec 29th. RWG.EJW.SCM. et al. Rame Head: three Dec 29th. PE.NE. The best year since 1979. The county mainland total advances to c.1093 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - 59, Feb - 119, Mar - 32, Apr - two, Jun - one, Sept - three, Oct - 57, Nov - 339 (31%), Dec - 481 (44%). Top sites: St Ives - 526 (48%), Porthgwarra - 217, Falmouth - 75, Mullion/Loe Bar -44. 88

Wilson's Phalarope Peter Walsh

Yellow - throated Vireo Ren Hathway Lapland Bunting Peter Walsh PUFFIN - Fratercula artica

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. There has been a substantial reduction in the breeding population in Cornwall over the last three decades. At Lye Rock for instance, 3000 or more birds could be seen in the 1940's and 600 or more was not uncommon in the 1960's. As recently as 1970, 60/70 birds were still present, but now there are none. Other former breeding sites at Trevone, Holywell Bay and Gull Rock, Nare Head are similarly deserted. The species may well become extinct as a Cornish breeding species before the end of the century. This year the only breeding season reports were as follows Long Island: one nest site Short Island: three nest site. The Moules: 12 birds present Jun 5th - Jul 15th. Despite a wide scatter of records this year, the total of c.36 passage birds was the lowest since 1984. This total included dead birds picked up at Sennen Feb 15th, Mounts Bay Mar 5th and 13th and two at Penhale Mar 15th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: two Apr 14th and eight between Jun 24th and Oct 15th. Mevagissey: one dead in January, two May 15th and four May 19th. Rame Head: two May 28th and singles Jul 29th and Aug 10th. Lizard: two Jul 29th, one Sept 19th. There was also one or two at 14 other sites.

FEDRAL ROCK DOVE - Columba livia

Resident. Breeds. Pure Rock Doves may still survive on some of the more remote parts of the north coast but they would probably prove to be indistinguishable from feral stock. As usual very few records were received, but there was no reason to suspect any change in status. Small parties were reported throughout the country, with a maximum of 50 at Trevose Head all year. STOCK DOVE - Columba oenas Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Widespread in small numbers throughout the county with the greatest concentration of records from the Caradon district. First winter and spring counts were low and breeding went virtually unreported. Early autumn passage was negigible but there was a heavier movement in mid-October and an impressive incursion at Porthgwarra early in November. Maximum numbers: Landulph: seven Jan 13th. Porttgwarra: noted Oct 8th - Nov 5th with max of 300 Nov 3rd and 400 Nov 5th (the third largest flock ever in Cornwall). Lundy Bay: 60 Oct 17th. Rame Head: 24 Nov 4th. Boswednack: 21 Nov 7th. Norris Green: 20 Dec 24th.

WOODPIGEON - Columba palumbus Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Despite the lack of information throughout the year and an abysmal autumn passage there was no reason to suspect a change in status. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: 26 Mar 10th Gerrans: 175 Mar 12th, 150 Mar 13th. Porthgwarra: 15 Oct 22nd, seven Oct 23rd. 89 COLLARED DOVE - Streptopelia decaocto Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The species was first noted in Cornwall in 1959 and populations built up to a peak in the late 1970's and early 1980's. Subsequently there has been a levelling off in numbers and a noticeable decrease in some areas. The reason for this reduction is not fully understood but does coincide with the species' removal from the list of birds protected by law. Status was maintained this year with the largest flocks comparable with those of 1989. A light spring passage was apparent from Apr 6th when one was at Trevose Head, to May 28th when one flew in off the sea at Boswednack. A total of c.22 birds was reported including five at Harlyn Bay May 6th, four at Trevose Head May 14th and nine at Cot Valley May 19th. In autumn there was one at Trevose Head Sept 10th - 13th, two at Porthgwarra Oct 8th and one at Gribbin Head Oct 17th. Elsewhere the maximum included: St Merryn: 22 Feb 10th. Antony: 50 Aug 31st. Penryn: 20 Sept 18th. Chiverton Cross: 27 Sept 21st. Trebarber, St Columb Minor: 26 Sept 25th. Illogan: 22 Sept 27th. Rame Head: eight Oct 8th, 23 Oct 27th. St Columb: 14 flew west Oct 14th. Gwithian: 72 Nov 22nd. TURTLE DOVE - Streptopelia turtur Passage migrant. Bred in 1981 and probably in 1978 and 1977. Summering birds are not unusual but winter records are rare. Spring passage commenced with two at Rock Mar 28th and ended with one at Pentire May 31st. A total of c.39 birds was reported, virtually all of which were singles. Larger parties included three at Marazion Apr 22nd, a total of five at Nanquidno and a total of three at Rame Head. An early return bird was at Porthgwarra Jul 9th but there was no more until one at St Johns Lake Aug 21st. C.30 birds were reported with the last at Lands End Oct 22nd. Passage was generally later than normal with 19 (63%) observed in October. As usual most reports concerned singles but there was also three at Loe Pool Sept 18th, a total of three at Lizard, a total of three at Rame Head and three at St Levan Oct 8th. RING-NECKED PARAKEET - Psittacula krameri

Vagrant. Feral release and escapee. A Category 'C species. Holmbush, St Austell: one Feb 21st in 1991. RL.SMC.EMC. 1988 Perranwell Station: two Sept 17th. RW.

CUCKOO - Cuculus canorus Summer resident (declining). Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly spring). Spring passage commenced with one at Breney Common Apr 8th, followed by one at Portholland Apr 14th. By the end of the month, birds had been reported from 16 localities and there was further widespread arrival during the first week of May. It proved to be the best spring arrival for several years with single day maxima of three at Porthgwarra May 2nd, four at Lizard May 20th and four at Crowdy Res. May 29th. Paradoxically, very few breeding season records were received and the only juveniles 90 reported were singles at Fraddon, Stithians, Mevagissey, Porkellis and Colan. BP noted birds in the Cheshire Home area of Marazion and observes that possible parasitism of Reed Warblers has only occurred here in four years since 1971. The last in autumn was at Gwithian Sept 2nd. Hepatic females were reported from Pendeen in May and Kendijack Aug 13th. BARN OWL - Tyto alba Resident. Breeds. Loss of breeding sites, loss of hunting habitat, pesticides, increased road traffic and a series of cold winters followed by cold wet summers have all conspired to take a heavy toll on this highly vulnerable species. Despite this, Cornwall remains a major stronghold for the Barn Owl in the U.K. Birds were reported from c.99 localities during 1990. After my comment regarding the apparent lack of birds in the Caradon district in 1989, records were forthcoming from 28 sites in that area this year. There were no reports of breeding and most were single day sightings but the scatter of records indicates a widespread and apparently healthy population. A similar number of birds was reported from the St Austell - St Columb - Newquay area and at least four pairs were proved to have bred. The number of sightings in North Cornwall fell this year but this undoubtedly reflects a lack of observer coverage. Several reports, including two of confirmed breeding, were received for the Bodmin - Wadebridge - St Eval area but observations from the far north were restricted to one at Tregardock Feb 2nd - 12th, one at Hall worthy Apr 20th and one at Upper Tamar Res. Oct 16th. The majority of sightings in Carrick district derived from the east of the region, particularly the Roseland penisula. Although there was proof of breeding at only one site, birds were present at a number of others during the summer. One pair bred in the Kerrier district and there were five sightings on the Lizard penisula during the year, but only one from the east of the district; a single dead at Camborne Oct 13th. A similar situation exists in the Penwith district. Only one record of successful breeding plus sight records from seven localites. Probably the most interesting of these was one at Porthgwarra Oct 13th. LITTLE OWL - Athene noctua Widespread but scarce resident. Breeds. Despite vastly increased observer coverage there has been a substantial diminution, relatively, in the number of birds reported annually. There was a 50% reduction between 1983 and 1986, but a slight improvement subsequently. Breeding was not confirmed at any site in 1990. At the 1988/89 Tregony nest site MMheard one occasionally early in the year but not thereafter, whilst at the 1989 Sithney nest site JWJnoted only one bird Jan 1st - Oct 22nd. Elsewhere there were birds at only twelve sites: St Minver: one Feb 22nd, two Sept 27th and one or two Nov 29th to the end of the year. DLJ. Ninemaidens, Troon: one Mar 16th. CNT Cawsand: two April 6th. DRC. Droskyn, Perranporth: one Apr 14th. DFS. St Eval: one Apr 20th. SMC. Pentire, Polzeath: singles May - Oct 16th, two Oct 19th. SMC.DIJ.DLo. Predannack: one Jul 8th. RB. Porth Joke: two Jul 23rd, one Sept 30th. DRCh.JH. Fourlanes: one Jul 27th. DL. Sheviock: one calling in October. SCM. Towednack: one Oct 17th, two Nov 6th. MJR. Cargreen: one Dec 4th. PJR.

91 TAWNY OWL - Strix aluco Resident. Breeds. Owing to its nocturnal habits this species is invariably under-reported, but records of calling birds would be appreciated. Only two pairs were proved to have bred, but the widespread distribution of birds in the breeding season indicates a healthy population in most districts. The exception was the Kerrier district where singles were reported only from Gweek and Mullion. In the Bude area FHCK reports that the species is widespread in suitable habitat and at Launcells Wood the same observer heard four birds calling on several nights. DIJ considers that the species is common in the Camel Valley and reports sightings throughout the year. SMC found the species well distributed in suitable habitat in mid-Cornwall and LSP.EMP. commented that status was maintained in the St Just in Roseland area. From the west, there were reports from Boswednack, Cot Valley, Skewjack and Penzance plus a possible migrant at Porthgwarra Oct 16th. LONG-EARED OWL - Asio otus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in 1985, 1934, 1927 and 1924. Probably bred in the Upper Fowey Valley in 1976 following a large incursion into the U.K. the previous autumn. Tregonetha: one Jan 14th. DAC.RJH.DLT et al. Perranporth: two in early March with one to at least Mar 26th. One found dead Dec 2nd. RH.SMC. Trevose Head: one Sept 29th. SMC.LW.EJC. Lands End: one Oct 21st. DJB. Porthgwarra: one Nov 3rd. DAC.EGG.GGG.JFR. et al. Nanquidno: one Nov 5th. RJH. The best year since 1976. The Perranporth birds briefly raised hopes of a breeding attempt after they were flushed from a disused Magpie nest. Unfortunately the Magpies re-occupied the nest and apparently ousted the owls. The county mainland total stands at c.55 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - two, Feb - four, Mar - five, Apr - six, May - one, Jun - five, Aug - one, Sept - two, Oct - ten, Nov - seven, Dec - nine, not dated - three. Top sites: Porthgwarra - seven, Stithians Res. and Upper Fowey Valley - four each. SHORT-EARED OWL - Asio flammeus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year but several areas are regularly frequented. Bred in several years in the 1930's and 1940's and almost certainly near Foxhole in 1983. In another disappointing year for the species there was four in the first winter period, two in spring and only 17 in autumn. There were no reports after mid- November. Tamar Lakes: singles Jan 3rd, Feb 10th and Mar 11th (presumably the same bird). Tregonetha: singles Jan 9th/10th and Oct 21st - Nov 10th. Par: one Jan 21st. Landulph: one Mar 2nd to 17th Near Pendeen: one Apr 27th. Skewjack: singles May 27th and Oct 18th. Lands End: singles Sept 15th, Oct 8th to 10th and Oct 20th to 24th, two Oct 21st. St Levan: one Oct 9th. 92 Porthgwarra: two Oct 16th, one Oct 21st, two Nov 3rd/4th. Tamar Est: one Oct 17th. Rame Head: one Oct 17th, two Oct 19th. Trewey Common: one Oct 30th. Godrevy: one Nov 6th.

NIGHTJAR - Caprimulgus europaeus Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Formerly more common and widespread as a breeding species in Cornwall, but range has contracted with recent breeding information confined to five sites:

1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 West Penwith 6 prs? 3 males 5 males 4 males 4 sites Lizard 2 males 2/3 males 3 males 3 males 2 males Near Bodmin pair female male pair pair Bodmin Moor 4 + males 4/5 males male - 3 males Lostwithiel male none female pair 2 males The first in spring was a male near Zennor May 12th GDL and the last in autumn was one on Bodmin Moor Aug 29th. BTC. Elsewhere there were singles at Blackpool China Clay Pit May 18th RAJ, Boswednack Aug 10th EGG.GGG. and Gunwalloe Aug 25th MS. Each of these is unusual; the Boswednack bird may have been locally bred but the others were the first migrants in the county since 1978. SWIFT - Apus apus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with singles at Rame Head, St Minver and Gerrans Bay Apr 28th - the latest arrival since 1981. Despite this tardy start there was a pronounced influx over the next three days with birds noted at 19 sites. Passage proved to be exceptionally light throughout May and there was a paucity of breeding season information, although LSP.EMP. commented that the species was scarce this year. The majority of birds had left the county before the end of July and only 14 were reported after mid-August. The latest were singles at St Just Oct 22nd and Polhawn Oct 24th. The last bird was

93 seen by RS who commented that it was a rather brown individual with a markedly pale forehead and extensive pale throat. Maximum numbers: Helston: 50 May 8th. Pentewan: 50 May 20th, Jun 6th and Jul 7th, but 80 Jul 4th. Gunnislake: 50 Jun 5th. Pontsmill: 120 Jul 4th. Penryn: 50 Jul 18th. Trerulefoot: 60 Jul 24th. Holmbush: 50 Aug 3rd. ALPINE SWIFT - Apus melba

Rare vagrant. Lizard: one Apr 29th. JFR. Accepted by B.B.R.C. The county mainland total advances to 14. Monthly breakdown: Apr - five, May - two, June - one, July - one, Aug - one, Sept - two, Oct - one, Nov - one.

KINGISHER - Alcedo athis Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). After a series of cold winters earlier this decade populations had reached a low level by 1987. However the mild weather of the last three winters has obviously proved beneficial nationally as well as locally. 1990 proved .to be another excellent year for the species with breeding proved at Lerryn and Cliff, near Lerryn and strongly suspected at East Looe, Salter Mill (Tamar Est.) and at two sites in the Camel Valley. Birds were reported from 18 localities in the first winter period. Most reports concerned singles but there was two at Par, Tresillian and Lanhydrock. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Hayle Est. followed by one at Gwithian Jul 4th. A total of c.90 birds was reported from 42 localities - the most widespread autumn migration for many years. As usual the vast majority of reports concerned singletons or two birds but there were greater numbers at: Hayle Est: six to eight per day Aug/Sept. Truro/King Harry Ferry: at least eight. Tamar Lakes: three Aug 13th to 27th. Loe Pool: five Sept 18th. In December birds were noted at 17 sites - all singles except two at Hayle Est. and three at Helford Est. HOOPOE - Upupa epops

Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring). Bred in 1969, 1968, 1962, 1905 and 1901. Porthgwarra: one Mar 17th JMW.DB.IMcC. GGro. two Apr 6th with one to Apr 21st. AG.GRW.MW.EJC. et al. Gribbin Head: one Mar 19th. GRW.MW.RL. St Loy: one Mar 21st. JFR. St Levan: one Mar 25th Mrs Ellis St Breward: one Mar 28th. FHNS. Porth Joke: one Apr 28th. PJD.MD. Wadebridge: one Apr 30th. VH.DLJ. Lizard: one late Sept - Oct 10th. CH.BC. 1988 record Gunwalloe: one Apr 22nd to 25th. ARP. The county mainland total moves to c.379 since 1930, prior to which data is sketchy. 94 Monthly breakdown: Feb - three, Mar - 69, Apr - 166 (44%), May - 58, Jun - six, Jul - seven, Aug - 12, Sept - 25, Oct - 21, Nov - ten, not dated - two. WRYNECK - Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Has overwintered twice. There is no fully authentic record of the species having bred in Cornwall and in view of the recent, rapid contraction in range in the U.K., any future attempt seems highly improbable. Curiously there has been an upsurge in the number of migrant birds noted in the county in recent years. Goonhilly: one Apr 29th. BC. Talland Bay: one Apr 30th. JCLG. Par: one May 1st. GRW.MW. Lizard: singles Aug 26th and Sept 16th. BC. Kenidjack: one Sept 6th. RJH. Rame Head: one Sept 7th. KP. Crugmeer: one Sept lOth/llth SCM. Loe Pool: one Sept llth/12th. SB. Carnsew Pool: one Sept 21st. per DSF. Sticker: one Sept 27th per AFR. Nanquidno: singles Oct 4th and 16th. JH.SMC.ABR.KE. Porthgwarra: one Oct 17th. CLB.GCS.IK. Skewjack: one Oct 20th. AMH.JMW.JMcC. The fifth good year in succession. The county mainland total advances to c.196 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan - one, Mar - two, Apr - 12, May - seven, Jun - one, Aug - 18, Sept - 116 (60%), Oct - 36, Nov - two. Top sites: Porthgwarra - 35, Lizard/Goonhilly - 25, St Ives - nine.

Wryneck Ken Evans GREEN WOODPECKER - Picus viridus

Resident. Breeds. Reports were received from c.85 localities throughout the county, including many in the breeding season. After reporting the species as quite rare in 1989, LSP found none in the St Just/St Mawes district this year. DIJ found it fairly commonly along the Camel Valley and JWJ considered it somewhat more common at Sithney this year. At Long Rock BP recorded his first there for over twenty years, whilst BH observed his first at Saltash for two years. Three juveniles were seen at Hawks Tor, Bodmin Moor Jul 12th and two juveniles were noted at Penryn - the only proven instances of breeding.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos major. Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. It appears that the population and distribution of this species reached its zenith in the late 1970's and early 1980's after the onslaught of Dutch elm disease. The initial effect of the disease provided an abundant food source which was temporarily exploited but which has subsequently dissipated as trees have decayed and become sterile. In 1990, birds were observed at 58 sites, and whilst breeding was not proven anywhere, birds were noted in at least 16 areas during the summer months. Apart from DIJ reporting a possible decrease in the Camel Valley, no change in status was reported. There was the annual small increase in West Cornwall during Sept/Oct. In September there were singles at Treveal, Porthmear (Zennor) and Kenidjack whilst there were singles at St Levan, Cot Valley, Skewjack, Penberth and Porthgwarra during October. LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos minor

Scarce resident. Breeding has not been proved in the county since 1980 but undoubtedly occurs unnoticed. Caerhays: one Feb 3rd. BA. Great Grogley Downs, Wadebridge: one Jul 13th. SMC. Keveral Wood, Seaton: one Oct 21st. JSt. RSt. Lerryn: one Dec 16th. JST. RSt. Near Lewannick: one October. BTC. Another abysmal year.

SHORT-TOED LARK - Calandrella brachydactyla Rare vagrant. Predannack: one May 6th. ARP.HCP.SB. et al. Treen: one Oct 20th to 25th (but reports of two Oct 21st to 23rd). DJR.JMW.JMcC.DAC.IK. et al. St Just: one Oct 24th/25th. JFR.MS. All accepted by BBRC. Three in one year is unprecedented and take the county mainland total to 12. Monthly breakdown: Apr - one, May - two, Aug - one, Sept - two, Oct - four, Nov - two. WOODLARK - Lullula arborea

Rare resident and passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. This premier songster was formerly widespread with breeding records from many parts of the county until c.1968. Subsequently there has been a gradual contraction in range with no breeding season

96 records away from the east of the county since 1981. Breeding has been proved only twice in the last twenty or so years - at St Germans in 1983 and at Treveneage in 1968. Falmouth: one Apr 5th to 11th. MPV. Bohetherick, Cothele: one last week of May. GDL. Nanquidno: singles Sept 23rd and Oct 20th to 22nd. DL.MS.HRH. Loe Pool: one Oct 1st to 8th. SB. Porthgwarra: singles flew south Oct 18th and 23rd. JH.SMC.MB.JDB.ABR. Penlee Point: one Oct 27th/28th. RWG. Marazion: one Dec 5th. DSF. Halvana: two Dec 12th. JFR.RW. Spring migrants like the Falmouth bird are exceptionally rare. The Bohetherick site has been the most regular breeding season locality over the last decade and may indicate a remnant resident population. Of the 97 migrants reported since 1967, 44 (45%) have been observed at Porthgwarra. Monthly breakdown: Jan - two, Feb - three, Mar - two, Apr - three, Aug - two, Sept - two, Oct - 53 (54%), Nov - 27, Dec - three. SKYLARK - Alauda arvensis Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. 290 at Trevose Head Jan 13th, 220 at Loe Pool Jan 28th and 80 at Predannack Feb 25th were the only large flocks reported during the first half of the year. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 20 at Trevose Head Sept 2nd and continued until mid-November. There were notable influxes Oct 16th to 23rd and Nov 4th/5th but otherwise it was a fairly light movement. Maximum numbers: Trevose Head: 110 Sept 27th. Penlee Point: 200 Oct 3rd, 200 Oct 30th - Nov 3rd and 300 Nov 11th. Porthgwarra: c.947 flew south between Oct 8th and 23rd with max of 260 Oct 8th and 242 Oct 22nd. Treeri: 200 Oct 17th to 25th. St Levan: 200 Oct 22nd. Skewjack: 200 Oct 22nd. Lands End: 109 Oct 22nd. Loe Pool: 800 Nov 4th. Camel Est: 175 flew south Nov 5th. Pentire: 120 Nov 7th. In the second winter period the maximum included 200 at Pendower Dec 19th and 100 at Trenarren Dec 28th. SAND MARTIN - Riparia riparia Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Small numbers roost with Swallows at traditional sites in autumn. There was a well documented 'crash* in population levels nationally from 1968 to 1979. This reduction was related to prolonged drought in the wintering area in the Sahel region of Africa. Subsequently, numbers fluctuated around a very low base, apparently reaching rock-bottom in 1984 and 1985. However an improvement in Sahel rainfall since 1986 has resulted in a significant improvement in this species' fortunes. 1990 breeding season reports were received from: (with comparative data since 1985). 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 Treskilling 30 + 66 + 27 25/30 20/25 12 Loe Bar 2 0 0 12 20? 7 Gunwalloe c80? c80 35 15 5 few

97 Rock 2 _ _ _ _ _ Godrevy/ small 28 + 28 small Gwithian colony colony - - Spring passage commenced with one at Marazion Mar 7th followed by one at Camel Est. Mar 10th. There was a general arrival over the next ten days and an influx Mar 25th to 27th. A lull ensued before another small influx Apr 7th and then another period of inactivity followed by a larger incursion Apr 18th to 28th. Maximum numbers: Loe Pool: 50 Mar 25th increasing to 70 Mar 27th, 120 Apr 15th increasing to 150 Apr 19th. Marazion: 70 Mar 26th, 60 Apr 25th. Par: 80 Apr 7th. Bude: 200 Apr 18th. Siblyback Res: 100 Apr 19th. Trevose Head: 55 Apr 22nd. Porth Res: 150 Apr 26th. Many additional reports of 25/50 birds were received. Contrastingly, apart from a large number roosting at Par late in August, autumn passage proved to be very poor. The Par roost attracted 30 Aug 11th and 100 Aug 29th. 70 remained Sept 12th but there were no reports thereafter. Elsewhere there was a meagre total of 22 birds, all in September except one at Penberth Oct 7th and an exceptionally late bird at St Ives Nov 10th. DSF. (The latest since 1983 and the fifth latest ever).

SWALLOW - Hirundo rustica Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms large roosts at traditional sites in autumn. A few remain into December most years and birds occasionally overwinter into the New Year. The bird noted at Marazion in December 1989 overwintered and was last noted Jan 14th. BE.ES. Presumably the same was at Penzance Jan 24th. SL. The first in spring were seven at St Minver Mar 15th followed by two at Marazion Mar 20th. Unlike Sand Martin, spring migration was relatively poor with very few observed before mid-April. Maximum numbers: Newquay: 150 Apr 19th. Trevose Head: 125 Apr 22nd, 561 (one hour) Apr 28th, 150 May 16th - all north. Rame Head: 300 Apr 28th. Pendeen: 100 Apr 28th. Treveal: 100 flew east Apr 28th. Boswednack: 250 Apr 29th. Although there were no reports of a change in status, the species has declined as a breeding bird in the county over the last ten years. Of the few breeding records received the most interesting concerned two pairs nesting on the King Harry Ferry - each pair rearing two broods. PR. Paradoxically, autumn passage was excellent. Roosts at Par, Marazion and Gunwalloe were amongst the largest ever reported in the county and visible migration, particularly in late September was very noticeable. Regular passage of small numbers continued until the third week of October and there was the usual scatter of records during November but none in December this year. Last were singles at Redruth Nov 22nd and St Austell Nov 25th. Maximum numbers: Par: roost occupied from Jul 13th (20) to Oct 17th (three). There was a rapid build­ up from 300 Aug 3rd to 3800 Aug 11th and a massive 10000 Aug 24th (the second

98 largest concentration ever reported in Cornwall). Many of these apparently departed before the end of the month because only 1900 were estimated Sept 1st. However, another wave of migrants swelled the roost to 7000 Sept 12th. Marazion/Long Rock: roost occupied Aug 5th to end of September with max of 1000 Aug 5th, 1500 Aug 30th and 3000 during September. Landulph: 1000 Sept 11th. Lizard: 300 flew east Sept 15th and a huge easterly movement in south-easterly winds Sept 26th. (Eg. 400 flew over in ten minutes at Hayle Kimbro. This movement lasted at least two hours and must have involved thousands of birds). ARP. Camel Est: 1400 Sept 25th. RED-RUMPED SWALLOW - Hirundo daurica Rare vagrant. St Erth: one Apr 8th. PAR. Kynance: one Apr 10th. RAF.DP.RP. Accepted by BBRC. These two take the county mainland total to 22 - all but three since 1980. These are the two earliest ever. Monthly breakdown: Apr - three, May - four, Oct - nine, Nov - five, not dated - one. HOUSE MARTIN - Delichon urbica Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few remain into December most years but there are only two instances of overwintering - both in 1975. A bird at Mullion Jan 17th was only the third ever winter record for Cornwall. EGe. Spring passage commenced with one at Portscatho Mar 6th followed by four at St Minver Mar 15th. As in 1989 there was a widespread early influx of birds with sightings at 14 localities before the end of March, however, as with many other migrants, passage came to a virtual standstill during the first three weeks of April as adverse weather curtailed northward movement. There was a scatter of records Apr 23rd to 29th and light passage throughout May, but it was a generally poor arrival. Maximum numbers: St Minver: 40 Apr 23rd to 27th. Trevose Head: 200 north May 19th. Pontsmill: 100 Jun 2nd. Cliff-nesting was noted at Bossiney and Barras Nose, Tintagel but no counts were made. Elsewhere, breeding colonies appeared to be poorly attended. Autumn passage was noted from mid-August with the majority of local birds having departed by Sept 21st. A total of c.156 birds was reported for October with just three days - 6th (64), 9th (51) and 18th (24) accounting for 84°/o of them. One at Gerrans Nov 25th was the last, and the sole report for that month. Maximum numbers: Caerhays: 200 Aug 15th, 500 Sept 17th. Pentewan: 150 Aug 15th, 250 Sept 5th. Davidstow: 200 Sept 1st. St Johns Lake: 100 Sept 1st. Polgooth: 120 Sept 12th. Pontsmill: 120 Sept 21st. Tamar Lakes: 100 Sept 21st.

99 RICHARD'S PIPIT - Anthus novaeseelandiae Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Annual since 1974. St Just Airfield: one Apr 29th. DR.JFR et al. Predannack: one Sept 16th. SB.ARP. Holmans Moor: one flew west Sept 28th. DSF.VAS. Portwinkle: one Oct 1st. SCM. Lands End: one Oct 2nd. MDJ. Nanquidno: one Oct 4th. RJH.MPS. Sennen/Nanjizal: singles Oct 9th and 13th, two Oct 20th to 23rd with one remaining to Nov 3rd. RI.SC.DS. et al. St Levan: one Oct 12th. AMH. Trevose Head: three Oct 13th, two to 14th and one to 15th. Another flew west Oct 20th. SMC.PAM.ABR.RS. et al.

Richard's Pipit Ken Evans

100 Porthgwarra: singles Oct 19th, Oct 29th and Nov 3rd. (No doubt some interchange with the Sennen/Nanjizal and St Levan birds). AMH.GCS.DJC.BKM.RW. et al. Kenidjack: one Oct 20th. MS. Loe Pool: one Oct 21st to 26th. SB.ARP. 1989 record St Just Airfield: one Oct 19th. AJW. A very difficult series of records to assess, but perhaps a minimum of 17 individuals of this highly mobile species. The county mainland total moves to c.206. Monthly breakdown: Jan - two, Mar - three, Apr - seven, Sept - 45, Oct - 123, Nov - 20 and Dec - six. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 72, Lizard - 15, Trevose Head - ten, St Levan - nine, St Just Airfield - eight and Kynance - seven.

BLYTH'S PIPIT - Anthus godlewskii Exceptionally rare vagrant. Skewjack, Sennen: juvenile moulting to first winter Oct 22nd - Nov 1st. JMW. JMcC.EAF.AMH.MJC.CAO.GCS.BS.CDRH. et al. The first for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. There is only one previous British record - in Sussex in 1882, although one on Fair Isle in 1988 has yet to be accepted. Initially this bird was identified as a Tawny Pipit, probably due to a misinterpretation of its call, but doubts were soon raised and a tentative identification as Blyth's Pipit mooted. Problems with the identification of this species certainly exist, but it is to be hoped that this very obliging individual, seen by a number of observers familiar with the species, may have dispelled some of the difficulties. (An excellent article by CDRH, on the identification of this bird, appears in 'Birding World' Vol 3 No 11, pps375-378).

Blyth's Pipit John Waters

TAWNY PIPIT - Anthus campestris Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn but occasionally as a spring over-shoot from the south). Annual since 1979. Cape Cornwall: one Sept 10th. RJH. Towednack: one flew south Oct 8th. MJR. Treen: one Oct 22nd. GJC.EAF.AMH. et al. A rather disappointing total in an otherwise fantastic autumn for pipits. 101 These three take the county mainland total to c.84. Monthly breakdown: Apr - four, May - four, Jul - three, Aug - three, Sept - 48 (57<7o), Oct - 20 and Nov - two. Top site is Porthgwarra - 35 followed by Marazion - five. TREE PIPIT - Anthus trivialis

Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. In common with national population levels, there has been a definite decrease in the number of birds holding territory or breeding in Cornwall over the last three years. The main centres of population are found on heaths and in conifer plantations in mid and east Cornwall, particularly Bodmin Moor, Redmoor/Helman Tor/Breney Common, Goss Moor and Ladock/Summercourt areas. There has been no breeding season record west of Truro since 1970 and the species remains scarce or under - recorded north and east of Camelford. In 1990 breeding season records were again extremely sparse reflecting a much reduced population nationally. On Bodmin Moor small numbers were noted only at Bearah Tor, Bastreet, Halvana and Goonzion Downs. Elsewhere there were single males at Lanivet and Retallack two pairs at Dunmere, Treskilling, Bofarnel (Lostwithiel), and Tresaddern (St. Columb) and three males at Luckett. A family party was located at St Germans. Spring passage commenced with one at Kit Hill Apr 13th followed by singles at Rame Head and Trethurgy Apr 22nd. A total of 19 migrants was reported including four at Treveal Apr 29th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with seven at Predannack Aug 18th and ended with one at Kenidjack Oct 17th. A total of c.75 birds was reported from 15 localities. 32 (44%) passed through Sept 8th - 12th and only six were noted after Sept 17th. Apart from the party of seven at Predannack there were maxima of six at Kenidjack Sept 4th, ten at Loe Pool Sept 8th, four at St Ives Sept 9th and four at Treveal Sept 11th.

Pechora Pipit John Waters

102 PECHORA PIPIT - Anthus gustavi Exceptionally rare vagrant Lands End: one Oct 20th - 21st. GCS.JMcC.MJC.KE.EAF.AMH.CAO.JFR. BS.RW. et al. The first for the county mainland.

MEADOW PIPIT - Anthus pratensis Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Winter flocks in excess of 50 are rare but substantial cold - weather movements (as in January 1970 and 1982) are occasionally noted. Once again no definite breeing records were received but this reflects observer apathy rather than a genuine lack of breeding success. 56 at Predannack Jan 13th increasing to 204 Feb 18th was the only significant flock reported for the first winter period. Spring passage was noted at Bude where there was 60 Mar 16th and at Trevose Head where 55 were counted Mar 18th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 20 at Trevose Head Sept 2nd and ended at the same site Nov 7th. Passage was typically heavy late in September and during the first two weeks of October. Sites with regular movements and maximum numbers were reported as follows: Trevose Head: c.535 birds between Sept 2nd and Nov 7th with max of 320 Sept 27th. Lands End: c.748 birds between Sept 15th and Oct 25th with max of 300 Sept 15th. Lizard: c.1150 birds between Sept 26th and Oct 18th with max of 850 Sept 26th. Porthgwarra: c.2243 birds between Oct 7th and Nov 5th with max of 472 Oct 7th and 650 Oct 8th. Elsewhere there was 200 at Gunards Head Sept 16th, 300 at Treveal Sept 25th, 200 at Predannack Sept 29th and 750 at Rame Head Oct 17th. RED - THROATED PIPIT - Anthus cervinus

Very rare vagrant Marazion: one May 14th. MPS. Treen: one Oct 28th. PHA.PB.SJC.JH. Accepted by BBRC. The fourth and fifth county mainland records - all since 1983. Three have arrived in October and singles in April and May.

ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus Resident. Breeds. Well distributed on all suitable coastline. Breeds. Very rare inland. Status was maintained during 1900 with PJD reporting a healthy population at Porth Joke and JVPH locating birds in all suitable habitat. Breeding was widely reported and several large congregations were noted. 22 at Godrevy in December 1989 had increased to 31 by Feb 15th (the largest flock in the county since 1982) whilst 15 at Marazion in December 1989 also remained into January. At Gannel Estuary up to 25 fed around the saltmarsh in the first winter period and 20 were present in December. Ten were at Lands End Oct 8th and 12 were noted at Gerrans Nov 19th. SCANDINAVIAN ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus littoralis This race of Rock Pipit is quite distinctive in fresh breeding plumage in spring but is more difficult to identify during the winter. There were only three records prior to

103 1984 but the Mounts Bay bird takes the total to 11. Mounts Bay: one Mar 18th. MS.

WATER PIPIT - Anthus spinoletta Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Formerly regarded as a sub - species of Rock Pipit, but since 1986 recognised as a full species. Small numbers are reported annually from traditional sites in winter but migrants occur almost anywhere. The majority are reported between mid October and late March but April records are not uncommon. Landulph: one overwintered from 1989 and was joined by another Jan 28th. None was reported during February but presumably birds were present because nine were counted Mar 10th. These were joined by a tenth Mar 18th. Only one remained April 1st - 13th. RWG.NJC.WJW.EG.JJ. Three Nov 3rd/4th, four Nov 18th with one into 1991. JJ. et al. Maer Lake: one overwintered from 1989 and was noted until Jan 18th. The same or another was present Mar 4th - 25th. GD.IK. Gunwalloe: one overwintered from 1989 and remained to Jan 12th. SB. Saltash: one Jan 26th PJR. Gwithian: singles Feb 5th - Apr 7th and Nov 5th into 1991. PAR. Copper house: one Mar 11th, two Mar 30th. Two Nov 18th - Dec 10th with one into 1991. DSF. Marazion: one Mar 21st, two Mar 23rd - Apr 23rd but three Apr 3rd.MS.SMC. et al. Nanjizal: two Oct 22nd.GCS.AMH.BS. Lands End: one Oct 22nd. RWW.EAF.MJC. et al. Lynher Est: three Oct 24th. GJC. Hayle Kimbro: one Nov 4th - Dec 13th. BC. Millbrook: one Dec 8th. RWG. Falmouth: one Dec 9th. JRMcC.JMW. Camel Est: one Dec 9th. GJC.DIJ. With a potential maximum of 34 birds this is by far the highest ever annual total. The Marazion bird of Apr 23rd is the latest ever in spring and the ten at Landulph the largest ever party in the county. Of particular interest are the Nanjizal and Lands End birds which occured with good numbers of other migrants in strong east/southeasterly winds. 1989 record Gunwalloe: one Dec 26th into 1990. ARP. YELLOW WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava flavissima Passage migrant. Uncommon in spring but forms roosts in autumn at Marazion Marsh, Par Beach Pool and Loe Pool and occasionally elsewhere. Bred almost annually 1964-65, sporadically prior to that, but not since. A few variants, notably Blue - headed, occur annually. Spring passage commenced with one at Marazion Mar 24th - the earliest arrival since 1977 - and ended with three at Trevose Head May 12th. A miserly total of 16 birds at ten sites was reported - the poorest spring passage since 1982. Singles were at Marazion, Rame Head, Porthgwarra (a strange bird with a pale grey mantle), Pendeen, Hayle Est. and Penzance. Two were seen at Cubert and a total of five were noted at Trevose Head. The first for autumn was a very early bird at Hayle Est. Jul 22nd, but there was no more until one at Gunwalloe Aug 22nd. C.361 birds were reported from 30 localities with the vast majority moving through Aug 24th - 27th and a second lesser movement Sept 8th - 13th. 95% had moved through by Sept 18th. Regular passage and maximum numbers: Par: c.43 birds between Aug 24th and Sept 12th with max of 36 Aug 25th. Rame Head: c.40 birds between Aug 26th and Sept 15th with max of 34 Aug 26th. 104 Lizard: c.75 birds between Aug 26th and Oct 25th with max of 60 Aug 27th. Porthgwarra: c.29 birds between Aug 27th and Oct 20th with max of 16 Sept 3rd. Elsewhere there was max of 14 at Gunwalloe Aug 14th, 13 at Colliford Res. Sept 2nd, eight at Drift Res. Sept 8th, Cape Cornwall Sept 10th and 29 at Millbrook Sept 11th. Seven birds were reported late in October in October with the last at Lizard Oct 25th. BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava flava

Uncommon passage migrant Males of the nominate race of Yellow Wagtail which breeds over much of Northern Europe are recorded annually in spring and occasionally in autumn but the less conspicuous females pass largely undetected. Sennen: male Apr 30th. DR. From an average of eight per anumn in the first half of the last decade the recent average has declined to one per anumn. ASHY-HEADED WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava cinereocapilla Rare passage migrant Breeds over much of Italy and Sicily. Sennen: male accompanying the Blue-headed above Apr 30th. DR. The 13th county mainland record. Monthly breakdown: Apr - four, May - four, Jun - three, Jul - one and Sept - one.

GREY WAGTAIL - Motacilla cinerea Resident and breeds on most suitable streams and rivers in mid, east and north Cornwall. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Very small roosts occasionally reported, usually associated with Pied Wagtail roosts. Another mild winter was reflected in the widespread distribution of the species in both the first winter period and the breeding season. The filter beds of sewage works undoubtedly prove irresistible during the winter months. At St Austell sewage works 12/15 were noted regularly from January to March and at St Columb sewage works at least six were regular during the same period. Apart from the more routine breeding records, ML and DIJ located a minimum of nine nest sites along the River Camel from Wadebridge to Wenfordbridge. Single pairs bred at Gulval and Mounts Bay but there was no proof of breeding from the Lizard area. Autumn passage apparently commenced simultaneously with the Yellow Wagtail migration. The first was at Marazion Aug 22nd and the last were six at Porthgwarra Oct 25th. The total of c.162 birds was about the average of recent years, with heaviest passage noted Sept 25th/26th and Oct 8th - 14th. Regular passage and maximum numbers: Lizard: c.26 birds between Sept 9th and 26th with max of 15 Sept 26th. Trevose Head: c.27 birds between Sept 10th and Oct 20th with max of seven Oct 14th. Porthgwarra: c.48 birds between Sept 28th and Oct 25th with max of nine Oct 8th/9th. Elsewhere there were peaks of 15 at Loe Pool Sept 9th, nine at Nanquidno Sept 25th, six at Cot Sept 24th and six at Kendijack Sept 29th. Second winter records were sparse but included five at St Austell sewage works Dec 23rd.

105 PIED WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba yarrelli Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roosts, some of which are well established, in autumn and winter. Main roosts appear to be Par Beach Pool, Marazion/Long Rock reedbed, Helston and Copperhouse. Although poorly documented, breeding was widespread and no change in status was reported. Roosts: Par: 100+ Jan/Feb. 200 Oct 31st. Pentewan: 100+ Jan/Feb. 90 August. Penrice Hospital, St Austell: 150 in a small Silver Birch Godrevy: noted Jul 28th - Oct 2nd with max of 121 Sept 3rd. Porthscatho: 48 Sept 26th. Swanpool. 120 Nov 1st. Caerhays: 100 Nov 21st. Like Grey Wagtail, the current species shows a marked preference for the insect-rich filter beds of sewage works in winter. At St Austell there was a maximum of 205 Jan 15th in the first winter and a peak of 150 Dec 29th in the second winter period, whilst St Columb sewage works attracted a maximum of 90 Jan 14th. 14 at Maer Lake Mar 6th and five at Trevose Head Apr 22nd appeared to be the only spring migrants. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 19 at Predannack Aug 18th and continued to late October. The largest parties included 75 at Trevose Head Sept 8th, 100 at Predannack Sept 29th, 80 at St Levan Oct 8th, 55 at Porthgwarra the same day and 55 at Copperhouse Oct 11th. WHITE WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba alba

Passage migrant The nominate race of Pied Wagtail breeding throughout Europe. Spring passage commenced with one at Mounts Bay Mar 17th and ended with four at Stepper Point, Padstow Apr 28th. A total of c.59 birds was reported, including 20 at Loe Pool Apr 21st and 32 at Trevose Head Apr 22nd. Autumn passage was typically, more pronounced. The first were three at Predannack Aug 26th and the last a singleton a Sennen Oct 23rd. Most reports concerned one to eight birds but larger groups included 25 at Predannack Sept 7th increasing to 75 Sept 16th and 42 at Loe Pool Sept 9th.

WAXWING - Bombycilla garrulus An irruptive species which occurs in Cornwall as a very rare winter visitor and passage migrant. The last major irruption into Cornwall occured in 1965 and prior to that in 1961. Once again many hundreds, if not thousands of birds were recorded in Scotland and northern and eastern counties of England but dispersal south and west was minimal. Bodmin: one Jan 3rd - 6th. SMC.EJC. et al. Sennen: one May 5th BKM. The county mainland total moves to c.75. The May record is the first for that month and apart from one in June 1961, the latest ever in spring Monthly breakdown: Jan - seven, Feb - three, Mar - four, May - one, Jun - one, Oct - two, Nov - 27, Dec - 27, not dated - three. This was the first record from the Bodmin district since 1850 and the first ever in the Sennen area.

106 WaXWing Steve Bird DIPPER - Cinclus cinclus Scarce resident (mainly mid and east Cornwall). Breeds. Pairs are present on most suitable stretches of the Rivers Camel and Fowey with the nucleus of breeding birds centered on Bodmin. Recent coverage of potential sites in the east of the county has revealed a healthy population on the Rivers Lynher, Neet and Inny. Despite this apparently optimistic situation there can be little room for complacency - the species remains at risk from vastly increased pollution in our rivers plus loss of, and disturbance at breeding sites. Fewer reports of proven breeding were received for 1990 but no change in status is suspected. Breeding was proven at Callington Newbridge, Golitha Falls, Pelyn Wood, Respryn, Pontsmill, London Apprentice and Idless and six pairs bred in the Bodmin district. ML and DIJ observed birds at eleven sites along the River Camel between Wadebridge and Wenfordbridge and from these sightings a minumum of five pairs are suspected of breeding. Birds were also noted during the breeding season at North Hill, Berriowbridge, Launceston, Tolpetherwin, Crendle Down, Henwood, Pillaton, Gunoak, Ninestones Bridge, and Trekeivesteps in the east of the county, Luxulyan, Garkur and Kennal Vale in the south, Drym (Leedstown) and Lowertown (Helston) in the west and St Mawgan, Lanivet and Laneast in the north. Unusual were two at Constantine Nov 24th and one at Tregony Nov 29th.

WREN - Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Breeds. Populations may be severely reduced after prolonged cold winters. This was particularly evident and widespread in 1963, but in 1986 and 1987 these increases were more localised. Very few records received. 107 Despite a comment from PR that the species was very scarce in the Gerrans district, all other reports indicate a healthy population. BP reported 'a bumper year' at Marazion and VH noted it as 'abundant' at Rock whilst J J located birds everywhere in the Caradon district. DUNNOCK - Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Few records received but all comments suggest a healthy and stable population. Autumn migrants were reported only from Trevose Head where there was 14 Sept 25th and 14 Oct 20th. ALPINE ACCENTOR - Prunella collaris

Very rare vagrant Rough Tor: one Nov 4th. BB.AB. Accepted by BBRC. The third county mainland record - previous reports in June 1932 and November 1906. ROBIN - Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). After a blank year in 1989 BP again reported breeding at Marazion. Elsewhere status was maintained with more than ever at Rock VH and more numerous than EGe had ever known it in September at The Lizard. The latter comment was reflected in the number of migrants reported from other localities in autumn. Passage was noted from Sept 25th to Nov 10th with max as follows: Trevose Head: 11 Sept 25th. 25 Oct 20th. Perranuthnoe: 38 Sept 27th. Holmans Moor: 30 Sept 28th. Mawgan Porth; 34 Oct 7th. Porthgwarra: 16 Oct 8th, 50 Oct 18th, 40 Oct 22nd. Kenidjack: 30 Sept 30th. Skewjack/Nanjizal: 63 Oct 9th. Lands End: ten Oct 18th. Few reports were received for the second winter period but 18 at Trethurgy Dec 2nd was noteworthy.

NIGHTINGALE - Luscinia megarhynchos Rare passage migrant Although there is a small breeding population in East Devon this species has only once been proved to breed in Cornwall and that was in 1940. In 1978 a male was heard singing for six weeks at a site in West Cornwall and in 1984 a male was heard singing for six days in mid June at a site near Bude. Skewjack: one May 20th. BKM Nanjizal: one Sept 25th. JFR. The county mainland total advances to 34 (17 in spring and 17 in autumn). Monthly breakdown: Apr - five, May - nine, Jun - three, Aug - four, Sept - eight, Oct - two and not dated - three. Top site remains the Porthgwarra/Nanjizal area with eight.

BLACK REDSTART - Phoenicurus ochruros

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Bred sporadically in the 1940's and 1950's in the Perranporth area. In 1986 a pair with three well grown young was seen at Perranporth but there was no evidence that they were locally bred. In 1981 a juvenile was seen at Colliford in July and there was 108 much speculation as to its origins. In 1988 a male was at Penhale Jul 26th and in 1977 a male was present at Blackpool China Clay Pit during July. 17 birds were reported during January/Feburary - all singles except two at Porthpean and three at Gunwalloe. All were at coastal sites except one at Tregonissey, St Austell Jan 14th and most were short - stayers. Spring passage commenced with a single at Looe Mar 10th followed by one at Wicca the next day. It was a light passage consisting of just 12 birds. All were singles except two at St Ives Mar 17th and two at Towednack Apr 8th. Nine moved through in March, one in April and two in May - singles at Trevose Head on 1st and Lizard on 21st. Autumn passage was noted from Oct 13th - 18th and involved a total of c.154 birds at 47 localities. The earliest were two at Lizard Oct 13th followed by two at Trevose Head and one at Sennen the next day and the latest was one at Porthtowan Nov 18th. The vast majority moved through Oct 15th - 25th with peak day counts of 61 on 17th and 30 on 21st. No more than seven was noted on any day after 27th. Regular passage and maximum numbers. Lizard: nine birds between Oct 13th and Nov 9th with max of six Oct 17th. Sennen: 16 birds between Oct 14th and Nov 1st with max of nine Oct 19th. Porthgwarra: 13 birds between Oct 15th and 25th with max of 7 Oct 15th. Lands End: 19 birds between Oct 15th and 25th with max of 13 Oct 17th. Rame Head: 21 birds between Oct 17th and Nov 4th with max of 15 Oct 17th. Kenidjack: nine birds between Oct 19th and Oct 28th with max of six Oct 22nd. Elsewhere there was seven at St Just Oct 17th and four at St Levan Oct 22nd. c.13 birds remained into the second winter period. As usual, most reports concerned single birds but there was also two at St Ives and two at Falmouth. Only three were reported in the second half of December - singles at Torpoint, Porthtowan and Chapel Porth, suggestive of a very low overwintering population.

REDSTART - Phoenicurus phoenicurus Uncommon summer resident, almost exclusively confined to Bodmin Moor and the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin. Breeds. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with a male at Kelsey Head Mar 26th - the earliest since 1984 and the third earliest ever. PJD. A total of c.38 migrants was reported - the best passage since 1980. 26 (66%) of these were noted Apr 22nd to 24th and included 16 at Rame Head on 22nd. GDL.RWG. et al. Nearby, at Wiggle, another five were located the same day. The remainder of the total consisted mainly of single birds but there was a total of nine reported from Trevose Head and two at each of The Lizard, Crantock and Porthgwarra. Breeding season reports were again scanty. On Bodmin Moor three males held territory at Bearah Tor, two males were sighted at Upper Fowey Valley and five birds, including four males were located at Hawks Tor in June. Single birds were noted at Deweymeads, East Colliford Farm and Bastreet. Away from the Moor, two pairs were observed at Dunmere Wood and a pair were seen at Lanhydrock May 7th. Autumn passage commenced very early with one at Downderry Jul 21st SCM (cf. early Yellow Wagtail and Whinchat). It proved to be a particularly protracted movement with the last at Falmouth Oct 28th. c.48 birds were reported - the second best autumn passage of the last twenty years. There were no 'falls' of birds, but more than usual (51%) were noted in October. Apart from singles there was a total of four at Trevose Head, three each at Rame Head, Kynance, Treveal and Porthgwarra and two each at Cot, St Just, Cape Cornwall, Gwithian, Sennen, Skewjack, St Levan and Falmouth. 109 WHINCHAT - Saxicola rubetra

Uncommon summer resident. Breeds exclusively on Bodmin Moor. Passage migrant. There has been a significant decrease in the breeding population of this species on Bodmin Moor since 180 pairs were located there in 1984. Whilst there was been no serious attempt to census the Moor during this time, the disappearance of pairs from peripheral (and accessible) sites has been patently obvious. Pairs were noted at Ninestones Bridge. Witheybrook, Bearah Tor, Twelve Mens Moor, Gilhouse Downs, Deweymeads, East Colliford, Lutterworth and Temple. Two pairs were at Kilmar Tor and at least six pairs frequented the Bastreet area. None was reported from the Moor north of the A30 road, apart from one at Advent Jun 16th. Spring passage commenced with a male at Loe Pool Apr 19th and ended with one at Gwithian May 31st. A total of c.22 birds was reported - all singles except three at Holmans Moor Apr 29th and four at Trevose Head May 1st. Autumn passage commenced with two very early migrants at Gwithian Jul 27th and ended with a very late individual at Penberth Nov 3rd. A total of c.141 birds was reported from 34 sites. 12 arrived Aug 26th/27th and 52 arrived Sept 13th to 18th - otherwise it was a largely uneventful passage. Regular passage and maximum numbers: Gwithian: eleven birds between Jul 27th and Oct 17th with max of eight Sept 13th. Marazion: 14 birds between Aug 1st and Sept 30th with max of eight Sept 16th. Lizard: 16 birds between Aug 26th and Oct 18th with max of eight Sept 9th. Near Kynance: 11 birds between Aug 26th and Sept 30th with max of seven Sept 23rd. Lands End: 12 Sept 15th. Crowdy Res: 11 Sept 16th. Sennen: seven Oct 8th. Elsewhere, no more than five were seen at any one time. STONECHAT - Saxicola torquata Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Suffers severe losses in prolonged cold weather. Following the depletion of the Cornish breeding population of this species in winters 1984/5 and 1985/6 there was a slight recovery in 1987. The species' prodigious reproductive capability has subsequently ensured a rapid increase which is evidenced by a near complete recovery at coastal sites and a considerable improvement at inland sites during 1990. On Bodmin Moor, where 211 pairs were located in 1984, but only three pairs in 1987, DAC describes it as 'doing quite well'. Elsewhere, ARP considers that The Lizard population has recovered to pre-1985 levels, whilst at least seven pairs held territory at Widemouth Bay FHCK.IK., six pairs were located at Cligga Head and seven sites were identified between Pentire Point and Ranie Point. DFS.ML. In the Caradon district, apart from five pairs at Rame Head, rather few were reported but this may be due to a lack of observer coverage rather than a lack of birds. In Penwith MS reported a total of 22 pairs and at Gwithian PAR found six pairs. Several large parties, probably including migrants were reported during autumn. The largest of these included 20 in the Kynance area Aug 26th, 12 at Lands End Sept 8th, 14 at Trevose Head Sept 27th, ten at Lizard Point Oct 13th, nine at Nanquidno Oct 25th and 12 at Porthgwarra Nov 3rd.

110 'SIBERIAN' - STONECHAT

Very rare vagrant. Kenidjack: male showing characteristics of Saxicola torquata maura/stejnegeri Oct 18th/19th JFR et al. Accepted by BBRC. There are two previous accepted records for the county mainland - in 1982 and 1985.

0A

'Siberian ' Stonechat John Waters NORTHERN WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe Summer resident. Breeds, mainly on Bodmin Moor but single pairs breed almost anywhere along the north coast and on the Lizard peninsula. South coast and other inland sites are seldom exploited. Passage migrant. The bird noted at Culdrose in December 1989 was not reported in 1990. Breeding was reported from Advent, Witheybrook, Tregorrick Tor and Carey Tor (four pairs) on Bodmin Moor. On The Lizard the species was present in the breeding season at Halzephron and Soap Cove where five juveniles were seen accompanying three males Jun 15th. Elsewhere, pairs bred at Porthgwarra, Pentire Point, Perranporth (two pairs) and Backways Cove, Trebarwith. Spring passage commenced with three at Trevose Head and singles at Landulph and Porth Joke Mar 11th and ended with one at Trevose Head May 16th. A total of c.930 birds was reported; more than three times the recent spring average and probably the best passage on record. Passage was generally light during March with peak day totals of 15 on 26th and 30th, and almost non-existent throughout the first three weeks of April. The first incursion was obvious Apr 22nd when at least 177 birds were reported but this was easily exceeded by the unexpected invasion of c.581 birds on 29th. Peak numbers occurred as follows: Trevose Head: c.342 birds between Mar 11th and May 16th with max of 35 Apr 22nd and 289 Apr 29th (one observer put the figure at 350 -I-. In any case this was the highest ever single count in Cornwall). PAM.LW.RW. 111 Predannack: c.76 birds between Mar 24th and May 12th with max of 44 Apr 22nd. Porthgwarra: c.87 birds between Mar 31st and May 11th with max of 50 Apr 22nd and 30 Apr 29th. Rame Head: c.41 birds between Apr 1st and May 13th with max of 25 Apr 22nd. Holmans Moor: 70 Apr 29th. St Merryn Airfield: 59 Apr 29th. Lizard Point: 28 Apr 29th. Nanquidno: 20 Apr 29th. Crantock: 20 Apr 30th. By comparison, autumn passage was average with a total of c.312 birds reported. The first was at Gwithian Jul 23rd and the last at Newquay Nov 8th. Very few were reported in August but there were small falls Sept 9th to 17th and Oct 8th to 14th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Predannack: c.21 birds between Aug 18th and Oct 28th with max of ten first date. Porthgwarra: c.26 birds between Aug 23rd and Oct 25th with max of ten Oct 8th. Trevose Head: c.25 birds between Sept 2nd and Oct 20th with max of ten Sept 17th and Sept 27th. Caerthillian: 12 Sept 9th. Porthmeor, Zennor: 18 Sept 10th to 16th. 'GREENLAND' WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe leuccorhoa Small numbers of this large distinctive race are recorded annually in Cornwall. Gwithian: male Mar 17th. Mevagissey: one Apr 26th. Perransands: one Apr 27th. Predannack: one May 5th. Lizard: one Oct 14th. Cape Cornwall: one Oct 25th. RING OUZEL - Turdus torquatus

Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1970. Has overwintered twice. Birds turn up in suitable breeding habitat most years but breeding has not been suspected since 1976 and not proved since 1970. Spring passage commenced with an early male at St John Mar 11th SCM and consisted of 18 birds. Singles at Holmans Moor on 14th and Porthgwarra on 31st were the only additional March records. The next was at Rame Head Apr 21st and a total of ten more arrived before the end of that month. All were singles except two at Polhawn Apr 22nd and two at Kit Hill Apr 28th. Four were reported during May; the last at Lizard May 12th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Kenidjack Sept 21st and ended with one at the same site Oct 28th. c.43 birds were reported, all but the first in October. Of these, 28 moved through Oct 21st/22nd. Apart from single bird/single day sightings there was a total of three at Kenidjack, Towednack and Sennen and two each at Lizard and Cot. At Porthgwarra/Nanjizal there were singles Oct 3rd and 17th, five on 21st and 14 on 22nd with lesser numbers thereafter. MB.JDB.SMC et al. BLACKBIRD - Turdus merula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn but also in winter as a result of cold weather). Forms roosts in winter but these are rarely reported. Small numbers of 'pied' birds are reported annually.

112 BP reported that due to drought and possible Magpie predation in the Marazion area, this species apparently had little breeding success. Elsewhere the species remains abundant. Very few were reported in the first half of the year; 18 at Camel Est Feb 11th and ten at Par Mar 28th being the maximum. Autumn passage apparently commenced with eight at Trevose Head Sept 25th and continued until at least Nov 7th when 26 flew over the same locality. Regular reports and maxiumum numbers: Trevose Head: c.159 flew west between Sept 25th and Nov 7th with max of 45 Oct 13th and 78 Oct 20th. Kenidjack: 15 Sept 30th, 40 Oct 21st. Porthgwarra: c.172 between Oct 8th and Nov 5th with max of 35 Oct 18th and 115 Oct 22nd. Lands End: 30 Oct 21st. Duckpool: 20 Oct 24th. In the second winter period there was 50 in the Bethel/Tregrehan area of St Austell Nov 27th and 16 at Percuil Dec 14th. Five aberrants were reported. At Par there was a male with a complete, wide, white collar Apr 15th and another with a pure white rump Apr 27th. At Trelissick, a male with a white throat patch was seen Dec 15th, whilst a male with white speckling on the throat, chest and nape was reported from Chyandour, penzance. At Bude there was a female with white feathers in the tail. FIELDFARE - Turdus pilaris Winter visitor. Passage migrant with peak numbers normally in mid November at the height of autumn migration and in mid winter as a result of cold weather. Forms roosts in winter. A single bird summered in the Upper Fowey Valley Smallacombe area in 1987. As in 1989 the species was predictably scarce in the exceptionally mild first winter period. Flocks were the smallest since 1984 with only four concentrations of 100 or more birds. There was 100 at Crowan Res Jan 13th, 100 at Colliford Jan 14th, 100 at Siblyback Res Feb 3rd and 120 at Redmoor Feb 21st. Few spring migrants were reported with the last at Witheybrook May 5th. Autumn passage was noted from Sept 29th - six at Landulph, to Dec 1st - 50 at Holmbush. It was another light passage with only 39 birds reported during the first two weeks of October. Later in the month the only triple-figure flocks were 164 at Bosisto, St Levan Oct 17th, 100 at Cot Oct 21st and 350 flying northeast over Holmbush on 22nd. Rather more were noted during the first half of November before a return to low numbers to the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Redruth: 200 Nov 2nd, 1000 Nov 5th, 1200 Nov 6th, 800 Nov 7th - all flying southeast. Camel Est: 850 Nov 5th. Saltash: 500 Nov 11th. 100 at Colliford Res Dec 23rd and 100 at Siblyback Res Dec 31st were the only significant flocks in the second winter period. SONG THRUSH - Turdus philomelos

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. This species appears to have declined locally over the last ten years. Few records received. BP comments that the species had little breeding success in the Marazion area. RL describes it as widespread but scarce generally, whilst CLB found fewer pairs in the Penryn area this year. The sole spring migrant was reported from Trevose Head Mar 28th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Trevose Head Sept 27th and ended with 12 there Nov 7th. 113 Many observers are now showing greater interest in our more common migrants and as a result rather more than usual were reported this autumn, particularly during the third week of October. Trevose Head: c.116 between Sept 27th and Nov 7th with max of 66 Oct 20th. Porthgwarra: c.76 between Oct 8th and Nov 5th with max of 56 Oct 22nd. Zennor: 20 Oct 18th. Lands End: 190 Oct 21st. Sennen: 40 Oct 21st. Cot: 40 Oct 21st. Nanquidno: 20 Oct 23rd. Duckpool: 20 Oct 24th.

REDWING - Turdus iliacus Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Peak numbers occur in mid winter as a result of birds being displaced by severe weather and in mid November at the height of the autumn migration. Habitually forms large roosts but these are poorly documented. Like Fieldfare, the species was predictably scarce in the first winter period. The largest flock was 150 at Pentire Mar 13th but this may have contained spring migrants. Elsewhere the maximum were 50 at Bude, Tregoss, Respryn and Breney Common. In April singles were noted at Pentire on 16th, St Eval on 21st and Gwithian on 24th. Although autumn passage commenced very early with four at Nandquidno Sept 22nd, it proved to be a poor movement. The vast majority were noted Oct 2nd to 22nd and late in November. Maximum numbers: Lanivet: 260 Oct 9th. Cot: 500 Ot 20th. Trevose Head: 215 Oct 20th. Playing Place: 250 Oct 21st. Lands End: 231 Oct 21st. Cam Grey, St Austell: 500 Nov 27th. Crowdy Res: 250 Nov 28th. The only significant party in December was 100 at Holmbush on 18th. MISTLE THRUSH - Turdus viscivorus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Like Song Thrush a species which appears to have decreased quite markedly in the county over the last decade. Following a period of increase in the 1970*8, signs of localised decreases were first reported in 1983, but subsequently steady declines have been noted in many parts of Cornwall. Although the Mistle Thrush is never particularly evident as a cold weather migrant to the county, the reduced population may well be associated with the series of severe winters in the mid 1980's. DIJ reports a stable population in the Camel Valley and SB found birds on all suitable territory at Loe Pool. Breeding was reported widely in the St Austell area and also at Kennack Sands. First winter flocks were very small with max of only six at St Eval Jan 7th and six at Gerrans Jan 28th. The only birds identifiable as spring migrants were two at Trevose Head Apr 22nd and one at Rame Head the same day. Post-breeding flocks were the smallest for many years - a wandering flock of ten in the Colan area being the largest gathering. Autumn passage commenced with four at Lizard Sept 23rd and ended with one flying east at Camel Est Nov 5th. A total of c.36 birds was reported with most moving through Oct 16th to 23rd. Apart from three at Hayle Est Oct 8th, a total of seven at Lands End, three at Trevose Head Oct 20th and ten east over Penberth Nov 3rd, all other reports concerned one or two birds. 114 Seven at Gerrans Dec 5th was the only second winter observation of note. CETI'S WARBLER - Cettia cetti

Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant. This recent colonist was first noted in the U.K. in 1961 but did not reach Cornwall until 1973. Colonisation was initially slow but by 1978 birds were reported from six localities and included the first proof of breeding in the county; at Marazion. Subsequently, breeding has been proved here in most years and was probable in others. Until 1990 the only other site where breeding had been confirmed was at Angarrack in 1981 and 1982 but sadly the site has been destroyed, although occasional reports from Phillack may indicate a remnant population. These successes of the early 1980's probably accounted for the continued increase and dispersal throughout the county, although some immigration may also have occurred. By 1984 birds were noted at eleven localities and in 1985, despite a reversal in the number of sites, at least 36 were located and there was a speculative estimate of 100 birds at Marazion Marsh alone. More recently, severe winter weather caused a reduction of numbers in many parts of the U.K. including a virtual wipe-out in the species former stronghold, Kent. The Cornish population was apparently halved from 1985 to 1986 and was again reduced in 1987, but there has been a slight improvement annually since. Marazion: noted throughout the year with a maximum of eight singing males May 17th. Bred. Four new birds trapped and ringed. DSF.BP. et al. Par: male from 1989 throughout the year. Another male April/May at least. Bred. Four new birds trapped and ringed. SMC.BTSC.EMC et al. Maenporth: male from 1989 throughout year. BC.MPV.JMW. Bude: male from 1989 to Mar 26th. IK Landulph: male Jan 1st - 28th. PE.JJ.RWG. et al. Gunwalloe: male Feb 3rd. Up to three males breeding season. SB.JH. et al. Loe Pool: male Feb 18th to May 21st, but up to three males April and two Jun 18th. One Dec 6th and 14th. SB.EGe.SMC.REW. Calstock: male Apr 12th. BTC. Bolingey, Perranporth: male Apr 12th - May 28th. DFS. St Erth: male Apr 20th and Sept 17th. Two males Oct 10th and three males Oct 11th. JH.EGG.GGG.JLFP. St Levan: male Oct 10th. PAG. A review of site fidelity since the first record in 1972 reveals that the species has occured in 16 years at Marazion, ten years at Calstock (not Culdrose as suggested in the 1989 Report), eight years at Gunwalloe, seven years at Skewjack and Bude and five years at Poldhu, Porthgwarra and Par. 29 othere sites have played host to the species on four occasions or less. The Landulph, St Erth and St Levan records are all site 'firsts' and the Bolingey bird is the first there since 1977.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER - Locustella naevia Summer resident. Uncommon passage migrant (mainly spring). Spring passage commenced with one at Landulph Apr 11th but there was no more until one, perhaps the same bird at the same site Apr 21st. From Apr 22nd there was a widespread arrival, including a total of 33 birds at 11 localities on that first date and at least 55 in all by the end of the month and 14 more in May. Most reports concerned one or two birds but there was 15 at Rame Head, five at Porthgwarra, three at Lizard - all Apr 22nd, three at Trevose Head Apr 25th, seven between Zennor and Gurnards Head Apr 30th, three at Ninestones Bridge the same day and three at Bastreet May 11th. There was a paucity of breeding season information although the species appeared to be widespread on moorland in the mid and east of the county. On the Penwith moors MS located 17 singing males in the Foage Farm to Bosigan area and despite the lack of proven breeding, most birds were present for at least two weeks.

115 Autumn passage was poor, consisting of singles at Upper Tamar Res. Aug 19th, Hayle Kimbro Pool Sept 8th and St Levan Oct 7th. AQUATIC WARBLER - Acrocephalus paludicola Rare passage migrant (autumn). For a summary of Cornish records see 'Birds in Cornwall 1988' pages 132- 134. Marazion/Long Rock Pool: 15 different birds noted between Aug 8th and Oct 3rd. Single juveniles were trapped and ringed Aug 22nd, Aug 25th, Sept 15th and Sept 20th. Ten arrived in August and five in September. DSF.BP.JFR. et al. Gunwalloe: three Aug 8th, two Aug 22nd - 25th, one Sept 25th/26th.SB.SML.MCH.ARP et al. Loe Pool: one Sept 5th. SB. All birds were juveniles. The total of 22 birds is the second best ever - beaten only by 37 in 1976. The county mainland total advances to c. 177. Monthly breakdown: Aug - 102 (58%), Sept - 63 (36%), Oct - 11, not dated - one. Top sites: Marazion - 124 (70%), Stithians Res. - 24 and Gunwalloe - six. SEDGE WARBLER - Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. Nationally this species has declined quite dramatically over the last ten years reaching a very low population level in 1985. This has been reflected in observer's comments in Cornwall, although there has been a slight recent improvement. The decline may be attributable to a number of factors including the loss of breeding habitat, prolonged drought in the wintering quarters in the Sahel region of Africa and more recently exacerbated by inclement early summer weather resulting in poor breeding success. The first in spring was one at Skewjack Mar 31st - the earliest ever county mainland record DSF. Four were reported from Par Apr 4th but there was no more until a single at Rame Head Apr 22nd. Only 20 birds arrived before the end of April but there was a widespread invasion early in May. Passage ceased with one at Nanquidno May 28th. Most reports concerned one to three birds but there was also five at Retallack May 4th, nine at Landulph May 6th, seven at Harlyn Bay the same day, six at Marazion May 7th and seven at Porth Joke May 16th. Presumably many of these remained to breed - certainly the species appeared to be more prominent than in recent years. PAR reported a good breeding season at Gwithian and DFS located birds at eleven sites in the Perranporth district. Conversely, autumn passage was meagre. As Marazion BP found passage almost non - existent and considered that a lack of reed aphids combined with clear nights ensured that most birds passed over without stopping. This situation was repeated at Par where only four migrants were trapped and ringed in August/September. Elsewhere a total of ten birds was reported. These included; late birds at Nanquidno Oct 15th and Sennen Oct 16th and two at Loe Pool Oct 17th - the latest records since 1978. MARSH WARBLER - Acrocephalus palustris Vagrant Now a very rare breeding species in the U.K. An unstreaked acroephalus warbler at Nanquidno Oct 15th was generally thought to be this species but could not be identified to the total satisfaction of the observer concerned.

116 REED WARBLER - Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. This species was formerly a very rare visitor to Cornwall so much so that one at the Camel Estuary on 1st September 1951 was considered sufficiently unusual to be included in the Introduction to that year's report! The species bred only sporadically, but has subsequently colonised most, it not all, of the county's Phragmites reedbeds. Spring passage commenced with one at Gunwalloe Apr 4th SB followed by one at Marazion the next day, which was BP's earliest ever. There was no more until one at Poldhu Apr 23rd and only an additional two in April. In fact very few arrived until mid-May and none was reported away from recognised breeding areas. Breeding was proved at Poldhu (several pairs), Gunwalloe (good numbers), Loe Pool (good numbers) and Perranporth (up to 11 singing males). At Par, Marazion, Swanpool and Kiggon (Tresillian) breeding occured but there was no indication of numbers. Breeding was also probable at several sites in the Tamar River reedbeds and at Bude. At Marazion, the presence of a Cuckoo, degradation of habitat and possibly strong winds in July did not suit the species and this may have resulted in depressed numbers in autumn BP. Autumn passage was certainly poor at both Marazion and Par - the highest single day counts being eleven and five respectively. Elsewhere, a total of c.23 migrants was reported. This included six at Gunwalloe Aug 22nd and at least ten in mid to late October; an abnormally high number this late in autumn. Singles were at eight sites and two at Lands End and Nanquido. Last was one at Loe Pool Oct 28th.

GREAT REED WARBLER - Acrocephalus arundinaceus Very rare vagrant. 1988 record. Crowan Res: one May 13th - 15th. SB.DL. et al. The fifth county mainland record and the first since 1977. Three have arrived in May, one in June and one in August. Three have occurred at Marazion with singles at Par and now Crowan. Accepted by BBRC. ICTERINE WARBLER - Hippolais icterina Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Nanquido: one Sept 30th - Oct 3rd. JFR.AH. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.39 - all but one since 1966. 12 have arrived in August, 23 (59%) in September and four in October. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 16, Lizard - five and Nanquido - three. MELODIOUS WARBLER - Hippolais polyglotta Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rame Head: one Sept 6th. KP. Porthgwarra: one Sept 13th. JFR. Trevose Head: one Sept 16th. PAM.DIJ. Nanjizal: one Oct 7th. MJC.RI. Loe Pool: one Oct 8th. AH. St Levan: one Oct 9th - 17th. AH.SMC. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.83 - all but one since 1966. Monthly breakdown: May - threee, July - one, August - 30, September - 35, October - 13, November - one. Top sites are Porthgwarra/Nanjizal - 39 (47%), Nanquidno - eight, Cot - six and Lizard - four. 117 Hippolais sp. Single birds, either Icterine or Melodious Warblers, but not specifically identified were observed at Lizard Sept 9th BC and Porthgwarra Sept 30th. DARTFORD WARBLER - Sylvia undata Status volatile. Rare resident. Occasionally breeds. Rare passage migrant. Birds have been present in the county during the breeding season in every year since 1980, in which year breeding was proved in the county for the first time since 1940. At this site in southeast Cornwall three or four pairs bred annually until 1985 when there was a peak of at least six pairs. There then followed a decline, related no doubt to the succession of severe winters. Only three territories were identified in 1986 and none in 1987, although three sightings were reported late in the year. Subsequently, none was seen here in 1988 and only two birds in August 1989. This year only a single bird was observed on Sept 9th. KP. Elsewhere a pair bred at Kit Hill and reared at least two young. GGr.GDL. ef al. No other breeding season reports were forthcoming - all recent sites along the southeast coast, The Lizard and the 1989 north coast site being apparently abandoned. In autumn a single bird frequented a kale field at Pentire Farm, Polzeath Nov 4th - 11th. SBi.JAB.NJC. et al. SPECTACLED WARBLER - Sylvia conspicillata

1969 record. One at Porthgwarra Oct 17th has now been rejected by BBRC and the species has been removed from the British list after a review of all records. SUBALPINE WARBLER - Sylvia cantillans Rare vagrant. Caerthillian: male Mar 30th - Apr 20th. BC et al. Accepted by BBRC. The ninth county mainland record. Now recorded in each of the last four years and incredibly, in each of the last three years at this site. Monthly breakdown: March - two, April - four and May - three. Sites: Lizard - four, Porthgwarra - two and St Levan, Kenidjack and Skewjack - one apiece. 1989 record. This would have been the earliest ever British record had it not been for one in Dyfed four days previously.

SARDINIAN WARBLER - Sylvia melanocephala Very rare vagrant. Stratton: male Mar 8th - 22nd. GD et al. Lizard: first year male Mar 18th - 26th. BC et al. Cot: male Oct 16th. BFF.OM.DIS. Treen: male Oct 23rd - 25th. BJR.JDB.CE. et al. Porthgwarra: male Nov 3rd. BKM. Accepted by BBRC. The last two probably refer to the same bird, but the first four were thought to be different. The first Cornish mainland records. However, a report of a first year male at Porth Joke Feb 25th preceded these, but no description has been received.

118 Sardinian Warbler Steve Bird 119 BARRED WARBLER - Sylvia nisoria

Rare passage migrant (autumn). Porthgwarra: one Nov 3rd. RW.BKM.GHT. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.29 - all west of St Ives/Penzance. 20 (71%) have occurred at Porthgwarra, five in the St Just valleys and singles at Lands End, Drift Res., St Ives and Pendeen. This is the latest ever county mainland record. Monthly breakdown: August - two, September - 13, October - 12, November - one, not dated - one. LESSER WHITETHROAT - Sylvia curruca

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Formerly a very rare summer visitor and passage migrant with only three instances of proven breeding prior to 1977, in which year a pair nested successfully at Saltash. Subsequently the number of occurrences has increased quite dramatically with breeding proved or suspected annually since 1981. This year breeding was confirmed at Gwithian where PAR saw three young. Breeding was also possible at Daymer Bay, Landulph, Little Petherick, Millbrook, Talland Bay and Crowlas where birds lingered into June and July. The first in spring was a male at Rame Head Apr 28th followed by males at Marazion, Gwithian and Crantock Apr 29th. A total of 22 birds was reported, including small influxes May 2nd and May 5th/6th. Apart from singles there was three males at Crantock May 2nd, two males at Daymer Bay May 6th and two males at Perranporth in May. Autumn passage commenced with one at Sheviock Aug 16th, followed by two at Loe Pool Aug 27th.

Lesser Whitethroat Ren Hath way

120 Only two were observed during September; singles at Porth Joke on 26th and Cot on 27th. More than usual passed through in October. Between 11th and 17th singles were noted at St Levan, Penberth, Cot, Nanjizal, Polgigga and Lizard - the last mentioned remaining to Oct 24th.

COMMON WHITETHROAT Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Formerly more common, this species has never fully recovered from the population crash of the late 1960's and numbers now fluctuate annually around a comparatively low base. Spring passage this year proved most enigmatic. The first was not reported until Apr 2nd - the latest arrival since 1978. However, it proved to be the heaviest spring passage for many years. New arrivals were noted daily until mid May with substantial numbers recorded Apr 25th and Apr 28th - May 4th. Peak counts included 30 at Rame Head Apr 28th, 11 at Lizard Apr 29th, 21 at Porthgwarra May 2nd, five at St Eval May 2nd, five at Nanjizal May 3rd, 27 in the Zennor to Treveal area May 4th, 17 between Pentire Point and Ranie Point May 4th, five at Portholland May 11th, five at Kynance May 12th and six at Mevagissey May 18th. Throughout May the species was described as noticably more numerous or very common, except at Pentire, Polzeath where DLo noted a slight decrease. The number of birds reported during June had dwindled but at least 20 pairs were found in the Swanpool - Maenporth area. Autumn passage did not reflect the apparently successful spring influx. A very poor movement involving c.38 birds was noted with the first at Marazion Aug 3rd and the last at Porthgwarra Oct 10th. It was the leanest autumn passage since 1980. Virtually all reports concerned one or two birds but there was also eight at Porthgwarra Aug 23rd increasing to 16 Aug 27th, six at Nanquino Aug 23rd, three at Cape Cornwall Sept 10th and three at Lizard Sept 15th. GARDEN WARBLER - Sylvia borin

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Well distributed in suitable habitat east of Truro. There are also now regular reports from areas in the west of the county, notably around Camborne, Falmouth, Helston and the Lands End penisula, where it was previously much less obvious. The first in spring was a single at Helston Apr 30th - the only report for the month and the latest first arrival since 1981. It was an exceptionally poor passage with singles at only 13 sites during the first three weeks of May, two each at Trevose Head May 1st , Helston May 21st and Egloshayle the same day. The last was one at Boswednack Jun 2nd. Breeding data was again very sketchy. Apart from odd pairs there was five males holding territory around Loe Pool during May/June, at least three pairs holding territory at Polbrock and birds at three sites in the Perranporth area. Autumn passage also proved to be unimpressive. The first was one at Porth Mear Aug 25th and the last at Sennen Oct 20th. Perhaps as few as 16 birds were located - the poorest autumn passage since 1980. Early migrants were almost non-existent and only ten were reported in October. All were singles except two each at Cot and Treveal Oct 1st. BLACKCAP - Sylvia atricapilla

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few overwinter. As suggested in the 1989 Report, many more than usual were tempted to overwinter in the extremely mild first winter period; a total of c.36 birds being reported from Jan 1st. - mid March. Apart from singles there was three overwintering at Penzance and Holmbush and

121 two each at Fowey and Marazion. At St Austell a female in January was joined by a male in February whilst at Truro a grand total of five birds was reported at various times. Two different birds were seen at Par and at least four were at Helston sewage works until Jan 27th. Spring passage probably commenced with a female at Mullion Mar 13th. Ten birds arrived towards the end of the month but very few were noted during the first three weeks of April. The majority apparently arrived Apr 22nd and Apr 27th - May 3rd, but once again numbers were low. The maximum included six at Rame Head Apr 22nd, five at Landhydrock Apr 27th, four at Gwendreath Apr 29th, five at Trevose Head May 1st, seven at Carnanton May 14th and five at Mevagissey May 23rd. There was a distinct lack of breeding season information but there was no reason to suspect any change in status. Autumn passage apparently commenced with ten at Treveal Sept 1st but then none until three at Lands End Sept 15th. Passage ended with a female at St Columb Nov 13th. A total of c. 168 birds was reported with the only significant arrival involving 25 new birds Oct 8th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Treveal: c.24 between Sept 1st and Oct 18th with max of nine Oct 1st. Lizard: c.17 between Sept 15th and Nov 9th with max of eight Sept 26th. Kenidjack: c.14 between Sept 21st and Nov 8th with max of six Oct 8th. Cot: c.13 between Sept 26th and Nov 8th with max of five Oct 16th. Penberth: c.20 between Oct 7th and Nov 3rd with max of seven Oct 19th. Porthgwarra c.14 between Oct 8th and Nov 3rd with max of six Oct 19th. Five were noted at Nanjizal Oct 8th and Porthcurno Oct 18th. At least 58 birds were reported in the mild second winter period - easily the highest ever total for this time of the year. There were several multiple occurrences including six at Quarry Car Park, Falmouth, five at Holmbush, four at Swanpool, St Ives and Crarthole and three at Angarrack.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER - Phylloscopus inornatus Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Very rare winter visitor.

St Columb Major sewage works: one from 1989 remained until Mar 4th. SMC.KN. et al. St Austell sewage works: one Jan 8th to 12th. RL. Nanquidno: singles Sept 22nd and Oct 1st. JMW.JH. Cot: one Sept 26th/27th RJH.PW., two Oct 15th with one to 17th. SMC.ABR.DM.MW. et al. Penberth: singles Oct 4th JFR. and Oct 12th to 22nd, but two Oct 18th. AMH.CAO.GCS. et al. St Levan: two Oct 8th. PAG.AMH.GCS. Sennen: one Oct 9th to 12th. AMH.GCS. et al. Skewjack: one Oct 10th to 24th. JH.LMcC.GCS.JMW. St Loy: one Oct 11th. AMH. Lands End: one Oct 14th, two Oct 17th. MJC.AMH.GCS. Lizard: one Oct 17th. SP. The St Columb Major bird was the second bird to overwinter in the county and was rapidly followed by the St Austell individual. There was undoubtedly some duplication of birds in autumn, however the possible total of 17 birds is the third best ever. Therefore the county mainland total advances to c. 170 (130 (16%) of which have occurred since 1983). Monthly breakdown: Jan - two, Sept - 11, Oct - 148 (87°7o), Nov - six, Dec - three. Top sites remain Porthgwarra - 33, Cot - 26, Nanquidno - 20 and Lizard - 13.

122 BONELLI'S WARBLER - Phylloscopus bonellii

Very rare vagrant Lizard: one Sept 12th. BC.ARP. Porth^warra: one Oct 25th to 27th. AMH.CAO.GCS. et al. The sixth and seventh county mainland birds - the latter bird being the latest ever. The Lizard bird is the first away from the Penwith district.

Bonell's Warbler Ashley Fisher WOOD WARBLER - Phylloscopus sibilatrix Uncommon summer resident. Occasionally breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Most breeding season records derive from the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin and the valleys of the Rivers Fowey, Camel, Lynher and Tamar. The number of singing males per annum fluctuates and site fidelity from year to year is not assured. Spring passage was not as pronounced as 1989, but the widespread scatter of singing males during the summer was encouraging. Breeding may have occurred at or near the Clerkenwater site and was possible at a number of other localities. Two in autumn was about the average of recent years. St Levan: two in song May 7th. RB. Dunmere: three in song May 20th, two May 21st and one May 31st. DAC.IMEC.GJC.SMC. Lanhydrock: one in song May 21st. GJC. Porthgwarra: one May 23rd. JFR. Nanquidno: one May 23rd. JFR. Hessenford: one in song May 27th per CFNHC. Cadsonbury: one in song May 28th MBe. Trewan, St Columb: one in song Jun 4th to 14th. SMC.ADC.HMC. Clerkenwater: juvenile Jul 16th. GJC. Smallacombe: one Jul 17th. JSH. Bicton Wood: one in song Jul 19th. BTC. Rame Head: one Aug 23rd to 25th. RWG.DRCo. Cot: one Aug 26th. WGL.IM. 1989 records: Lucket: one in song May 28th per CFNHC. Kilminarth, Looe: one in song Jun 17th per CFNHC.

123 CHIFFCHAFF - Phylloscopus collybita

Common summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Small numbers overwinter. Once again, exceptionally mild weather induced a large number of birds to overwinter from 1989 into 1990. The 73 birds in December 1989 had been supplemented by others, with c.93 individuals being reported during January, another 20 in February and at least six in March. This was probably the highest ever overwintering total. As usual the majority of sighting concerned just one to three birds but more regular sightings and maximum numbers were observed as follows: Helston sewage works: of the 45 noted Dec 31st 1989, 42 still remained Jan 14th but there was a decrease thereafter to 20 Mar 5th. St Columb sewage works: the six from Dec 1989 remained to at least Jan 14th but then gradually decreased with the last Mar 4th. Swanpool: one or two regular but five Feb 8th. St Austell sewage works: 20 Jan 15th increasing to 25 Jan 20th and 30 Feb 16th to 20th but only two to Mar 14th. Tresillian: six Feb 23rd. Spring passage apparently commenced with three at Rame Head Mar 12th followed by a widespread arrival over the ensuing week. There was another influx late in March but few new arrivals throughout the first three weeks in April. The maximum included 16 at Rame Head, six at Talland Bay and six at Saltash - all Mar 18th, seven at Lansallos Mar 24th, six at Bude Mar 26th, eight at Treveal Mar 27th, 15 at Skewjack Mar 31st, seven at Pentewan Apr 5th, six at Zennor Apr 13th and 20 at Porthgwarra Apr 22nd. There was little indication of breeding success but no reason to suspect any change in status. Autumn passage commenced with one at Trevose Head Sept 2nd followed by ten at Rame Head Sept 6th and 18 at Penlee Point the next day. Most had moved through by the end of October with the vast majority occurring Oct 8th to 19th and a definite departure Oct 26th/27th. Stragglers were reported until mid November. Maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: c.70 between Sept 13th and Nov 3rd with max of 18 Oct 8th and 28 Oct 26th. Lizard: c.34 between Sept 15th and Nov 9th with max of 16 Oct 13th. Nanquidno: c.35 between Sept 21st and Oct 26th with max of 15 Oct 11th. Kenidjack: c.28 between Sept 21st and Nov 8th with max of ten Oct 24th. Cot: c.40 between Sept 24th and Nov 3rd with max of 26 Oct 17th. Nanjizal: c.20 between Oct 4th and Oct 24th with max of ten Oct 14th. Sennen: c.25 between Oct 8th and Oct 25th with max of 17 Oct 18th. Lands End: c.50 between Oct 8th and Oct 25th with max of 24 Oct 17th and 20 Oct 24th. Elsewhere there was 11 at Porthcurno Oct 8th, seven at Penberth Oct 12th, 15 at St Levan Oct 13th, 19 at Skewjack Oct 19th and ten at Kennack Sands Oct 20th. c.105 birds remained into December - yet another record. The largest parties were at traditional sites. 32 were at Helston sewage works, 30 at St Austell sewage works and 20 at Marazion. Elsewhere there was no more than three. Birds of the eastern race 'P. c. tristis' undoubtedly occur from time to time, but are not easily identified and it is probable that many of the grey individuals reported as 'tristis' are in fact birds of the northern race 'P. c. abietinus\ In 1990 birds considered to be 'tristis' were reported as follows: St Austell sewage works: two Feb/Mar and one Dec. Nanquidno: one Oct 11th. Polgigga: one Oct 12th. Nanjizal: one Oct 14th. Penberth: one Oct 22nd/23rd. Towednack: one Dec 16th. St Columb Major: one trapped and ringed Dec 18th.

124 WILLOW WARBLER - Phylloscopus trochilus Abundant summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Various claims have been made of birds wintering in the county, but none is considered fully authentic. Spring passage commenced with the earliest ever county mainland record - one at Skewjack Mar 5th JH. (The previous earliest was Mar 20th in 1977, 1961 and 1948). The next was one at Bude Mar 21st followed by a total of 17 birds before the end of the month. However, as with many other migrants, the main influx was impeded by the cold northerly airstream which dominated the first three weeks of April. When the weather did finally relent there was a massive incursion Apr 22nd and another smaller influx Apr 29th to May 1st. Maximum numbers: Skewjack: 40 Apr 21st. Rame Head: 500 Apr 22nd, but as many as 700/1000 in the Rame to Tregantle area. (The greatest ever concentration of this species in mainland Cornwall). RWG.SCM.GDL.DRCo et al. Porthgwarra: 50 Apr 22nd, 11 Apr 29th. Lizard: 40 Apr 22nd, 30 Apr 29th. Trevose Head: 33 Apr 22nd, 15 May 1st. Treskilling: 30 Apr 22nd. Cot: 20 Apr 22nd. Redmoor: 30 Apr 23rd. Very little breeding data was forthcoming but there was no suspicion of any change in status. Autumn passage commenced with one at Boswednack Aug 5th and then a lull until one at Seaton Sept 6th, but as is so often the case, most probably departed undetected late in July and early in August. It was another apparently poor passage with only c.64 birds reported. 20 of these were noted in October, more than the average for that month, with the last at Porthgwarra Oct 27th. The maximum included eight at Seaton Sept 8th, five at Lizard Sept 12th, five at Trevose Head Sept 17th and eight at Porthgwarra Sept 13th.

GOLDCREST - Regulus regulus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). The succession of cold winters 1984/86 undoubtedly had a deletorious affect on this species but subsequent mild winters have assisted an almost complete recovery. This increase was evident throughout 1990. During the first winter period up to 70 were present at St Austell sewage works and up to ten at Trethurgy. Ten birds were reported on spring migration - the most at this season since 1984. Three were at Lansallos Mar 24th, five at Trevose Head Mar 28th and singles at Skewjack and Porthgwarra. Several breeding season reports were received indicating a healthy and widespread population. Autumn passage commenced with one at Lizard Sept 9th followed by one at Trevose Head the next day and continued until Nov 7th when one was at the same site. It proved to be an exceptional passage with notable influxes Oct 8th/9th, 12th to 16th and 20th to 26th . Regular passage and maximum numbers: Lizard: c.56 between Sept 9th and Oct 22nd with max of 50 Oct 22nd. Trevose Head: c.80 between Sept 10th and Nov 7th with max of 15 Sept 25th, Oct 13th and Oct 20th. Cot: c.70 between Sept 16th and Nov 3rd with max of 40 Oct 9th. Porthgwarra: c.150 between Sept 25th and Nov 3rd with max of 35 Oct 8th and 100 Oct 26th. Nanquidno: c.90 between Oct 3rd and Oct 26th with max of 50 Oct 13th. Penberth: c.80 between Oct 10th and Oct 26th with max of 50 Oct 12th.

125 Elsewhere there was 45 at Kenidjack and 43 at St Levan Oct 8th, 56 at Nanjizal Oct 9th, 30 at Percuil Oct 13th, 20 at Penlee Point Oct 14th to 16th and 'several hundred' at Rame Head Oct 20th. St Austell sewage works again attracted excellent numbers in the second winter period with a peak of 90 Dec 23rd. Most unusual was one on the top of Rough Tor Nov 5th. FIRECREST - Regulus ignicapillus Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn) and winter visitor. A potential breeding species (Cf. probable breeding in Devon in 1985.) The 26 birds reported in December 1989 had increased to 31 by January this year, with another five new birds in February and four more in March. The total of c.40 birds was the second highest first winter number on record. The six at Loe Pool in December 1989 increased to 11 Jan 21st, but the three at St Columb Major sewage works had reduced to two Jan 14th and the three at Trelissick in December 1989 were not reported again. Elsewhere there were maxima of two at Crantock Jan 2nd to 5th, six at Swanpool Jan 18th, four at St Austell sewage works the same day and two different birds at Truro. All other reports concerned single birds. The sole spring migrant was one at Trevose Head May 1st - the latest ever at that season. SMC. Autumn passage commenced with singles at Kenidjack and Treveal Sept 25th followed by singles at Rame Head, Lizard and Porthhallow the next day. A total of c.129 birds was observed - the third best autumn total on record. Of these, six were noted in September, c.99 in October and c.24 in November. The last was at Gillan Nov 18th. Regular passage and maximum numbers: Rame Head: c.eight between Sept 26th and Nov 11th with max of five Nov 4th. Lizard: c.12 between Sept 26th and Nov 9th with max of nine Oct 13th. Porthgwarra: c.13 between Oct 2nd and Nov 3rd with max of five Oct 17th. Cot: c.16 between Oct 15th and Oct 24th with max of 14 Oct 17th. Elsewhere there were peaks of five at Penberth Oct 12th, six at St Levan Oct 14th, four at Bosisto Oct 19th and three at St Loy Oct 20th with one or two birds at another 35 localities. From Nov 25th to the end of the year a total of 37 birds was reported - once again a record number, with many overwintering into 1991. Up to nine were noted at Marazion, three were at Helston sewage works and there was two each at Pentewan, Sheviock, Holmbush, Swanpool, Kennack Sands, Rock, St Ives and St Austell sewage works. Top sites in recent winters include; Loe Pool (with records in each of the last ten winters), Camel Est. and Falmouth/Swanpool (eight years), Lelant and Copperhouse (seven years) and Marazion and Penlee Point (six years).

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER - Muscicapa striata Summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. There has been a significant decrease in the number of pairs breeding in the county in recent years. A similar decline was noted in the mid 1970's but there was an improvement later in the decade and in the early 1980's. Spring passage commenced with one at Port Gaverne May 1st - the latest first arrival since 1981. A trickle of migrants was noted until the first influx occurred May 19th. A total of c.70 birds was reported with maxima of 18 at Trevose Head and 15 at Cot May 19th, and nine at Skewjack and seven at Porthgwarra May 23rd. Despite BTC reporting the species as * rarer this year', the number of breeding season records suggest a small improvement over 1989. Seven pairs were located at Loe Pool; it was described as 'fairly common' by DIJ.ML. in the Camel Valley and three sites were identified at Perranporth. Many reports of single, successful pairs were received.

126 Autumn passage probably commenced with three at Rame Head Aug 20th and continued until one at Cot Oct 21st. The total of c.80 was well below the average of recent years. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Lizard: c.12 between Aug 22nd and Oct 17th with max of seven Sept 15th. Porthgwarra: c.10 between Aug 23rd and Oct 23rd with max of five Aug 23rd. Cot: max of five Aug 25th. Nanquidno: max of five Sept 30th. Hemmick Beach: nine Oct 11th.

RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula parva Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Annual since 1980 Porthgwarra: one Oct 7th to 11th DRCh. JRMcC. JMW et al.

Red- breasted Flycatcher Ken Evans

127 Rame Head: one Oct 15th to 20th. RWG.DMo et al. 1989 record Caerthillian: one Nov 19th. JMW. The county mainland total moves to c.87. The 1989 bird is the second latest ever. Monthly breakdown; Jan - one, Aug - two, Sept - 22, Oct - 60 (69%) and Nov - two. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 30, Lizard - ten, Nanquidno and Cot - nine. PIED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula hypoleuca Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. One of the success stories of the 1980's. First bred in Cornwall at Lanhydrock in 1966, but there was only six more instances of proven breeding up to 1980. At Lanhydrock there was a gradual build up to a peak in 1986, but subsequently there has been an inexplicable decrease. Elsewhere, the provision of nestboxes has encouraged the species to breed at a number of new sites. In 1990, six pairs bred at Lanhydrock rearing 22 young. At nearby Cardinham a pair laid four eggs but the young died. At Golitha Falls three pairs nested. One female laid five eggs but the outcome is not known. The remaining two pairs raised six young each. DAC.IMEC.GJC.FMC. Elsewhere two pairs were noted at Dunmere in May and possibly bred SMC.AC.GJC, whilst a male which arrived at Stephengelly, Lanivet May 6th remained for a month and was occasionally seen entering a nestbox DTC. At Altarnun a pair were noted from Jun 16th and may have bred in a nestbox. AMJD. The first in spring were three (two males) at Rame Head Apr 22nd and a male at Mullion Apr 22nd. Single migrants were also noted at Pentire Apr 24th, Trevose Head Apr 29th and May 2nd and Porthgwarra and Crantock May 2nd. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Porthgwarra Aug 23rd and ended with one at Cot Valley Oct 24th. It was an average passage involving c.60 birds, 25 of which arrived Sept 29th to Oct 1st. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: a total of five Aug 23rd to Oct 18th including three Sept 30th to Oct 1st. Church Cove, Lizard: a total of eight Aug 24th to Oct 6th including six Sept 2nd. Trevose Head: two Sept 13th, one Sept 29th/30th. Cot Valley: a total of five Sept 16th to Oct 24th including three Oct 1st to 5th. Pendeen: three Oct 1st. All other reports concerned one or two birds. BEARDED TIT - Panurus biarmicus An irruptive species which occurs as an occasional passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeding has been proved in Devon and is a possibility in Cornwall. Marazion: two Nov 10th MS. The county mainland total moves to c. 182 - all but two since 1965. Top sites are predictably Marazion - seven records, Par - four records and Tamar Est - two records. 20 other sites have attracted the species on a single occasion. LONG-TAILED TIT - Aegithalos caudatus Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Another very successful year for this widespread species. In the first winter period and spring several observations of large flocks were received - indicative of the clement weather conditions. At St Austell sewage works a congregation which regularly visited the area from 128 January through to April peaked at 60 Feb 16th. This is not only the largest flock in the county since 1984 but also the largest-ever in winter. Smaller flocks included 19 at Menadarva Jan 17th and 12 at Camel Est Feb 17th. In autumn, few were reported from recognised migration stations, but 18 at Nanquidno Oct 4th, seven at Porthgwarra Oct 21st and two at Trevose Head Oct 20th were notable. Roaming family parties included 29 at Camel Est Oct 13th, 22 at Porth Mear Oct 14th, 23 at Gribbin Head Oct 17th plus twenty each at Caerhays and Portholland. The second winter period produced peaks of 20 at Gwithian Nov 29th, 20 at Par Dec 18th and 40 at St Austell sewage works Dec 29th. MARSH TIT - Parus palustris

Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Fairly common, occurring in most suitable habitat east of Truro, but less common in the west, notably the Lands End peninsula which produces very few records. There was a complete dearth of records from the Penwith district this year but a few sporadic records from the Lizard peninsula; there was one at Kennack Sands Mar 31st, the species bred at Gweek and there was a singleton at Loe Pool Oct 8th/9th. Three at Porth Res Oct 14th was the largest number reported, but RL describes it as relatively plentiful in damp woodland valleys and probably breeding in most such habitat in the Restormel district. Conversely, DIJ observed few birds in the Camel Valley.

WILLOW TIT - Parus montanus Scarce resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant? This species has a very patchy distribution in Cornwall, occurring in damp scrubby woodland to the east and north of Indian Queens and with main centres of population in the Goss Moor, Redmoor/Helman Tor/Breney Common, Upper Fowey Valley and Bude/Tamar Lakes areas. Fully authenticated records of birds further west are exceptionally rare. The species undoubtedly suffered as a result of the succession of cold winters in the mid 1980*8, but has also contracted in range due to extensive habitat loss. The decimation of habitat continued and with the associated reduction in the number of sightings the future looks bleak for this fascinating species. In the Upper Fowey Valley, where there was twenty pairs in 1975 and five pairs still remaining in 1987, singles only were reported, Apr 22nd to May 6th, Aug 18th and Sept 22nd. EJC.RJL.JS.RSt. Elsewhere on Bodmin Moor there was a pair at Altarnun Mar 9th AMJD and singles at Hawks Tor Jul 23rd JSH and East Colliford Oct 7th EJW. On the mid-Cornwall moors, one or two birds were noted throughout the year at Treskilling and Breney Common RL.GRW.MW. At Lanivet MB recorded two in January and three Apr 25th whilst two were identified at Carpalla, Foxhole in both winter periods. RW. Singles were noted at Trethurgy Mar 3rd and at Luxulyan Valley Jul 31st to Aug 7th RL.GRW.MW. Birds were present at Goss Moor during July but data is too sparse to make a meaningful interpretation. SMC.RL. In North Cornwall there was one at Hellandbridge Apr 27th ML and several sightings of single birds at Upper Tamar Res SMC.EJC.AMJD et al.

COAL TIT - Parus ater Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. After an increase in records in 1989 there was a distinct paucity of information in 1990. Despite this the species remains common and widespread in all areas with suitable habitat. Very few were reported in the first winter and there was only one spring migrant - a

129 bird of the Continental race 'Parus ater ater' at Trevose Head May 12th. PAM. Only seven autumn migrants were reported; a single at Cot Sept 15th and singles during October at Trevail on 5th, Nanquidno 15th to 20th, Cot on 16th, St Levan and Bosistow on 17th and St Loy on 22nd. BLUE TIT - Parus caeruleus

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The B.T.O Garden Bird Survey shows that the Blue Tit occurs in 88% of gardens in the SW region, per RL. Reports of a healthy and widespread population do not reflect the scarcity of young birds in autumn, nor the general lack of birds visiting garden feeding stations during the second winter period. SMC.MF. Initially it was thought that this inconspicuousness was related to an abundance of natural food in the countryside, but the species has not proved as numerous in its more rural haunts. This may be due to birds breeding earlier than normal and failing to coincide hatching dates with the availability of insect food supply - thus resulting in high infant mortality. Flocks of 15 at Treveal Sept 21st, 30 at Nanquidno Oct 4th and 18th and 16 at Porthgwarra Oct 8th may have included some migrants. GREAT TIT - Parus major

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The B.T.O. Garden Bird Survey reveals that the Great Tit occurs in 64% of gardens in the SW region, per RL. As usual very few records received, but the same comments as Blue Tit, as regards the lack of breeding success apply here. One at Boswednack Jan 12th was unusual and 20 at Nanquidno Oct 18th may have included some migrants. NUTHATCH - Sitta europaea

Resident. Breeds. Common and widespread in suitable habitat in most parts of the county but scarce on the Lands End peninsula west of Drift and on the Lizard peninsula south of Culdrose. The species was well reported from its usual haunts throughout the year and status appears to have been maintained. In the far west there was one at St Loy Mar 29th and up to three there in October. Nearby there was a single bird at Lamorna Apr 1st to Jul 8th. The species may be resident in both valleys. At Penzance, singles were observed at Ponsandane Jul 7th and Oct 13th and at Tolver on Dec 31st. One at Towednack Sept 14th was more difficult to categorise but was probably a local partial migrant. On The Lizard peninsula the species is thinly distributed along the Helford Estuary, where there was two at Trebah Mar 25th, two at Helford passage Jul 17th and one at Frenchmans Creek Sept 8th. The largest parties reported included 'several' at Tehidy Apr 8th, eight at Respryn Apr 27th and six at Cotehele Dec 22nd. TREECREEPER - Certhia familiaris

Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant? Common and widespread in suitable habitat in the county as far west as Loe Pool and Hayle. Status was apparently maintained during 1990. Several, some of which may have been migrants, were reported from the Lands End peninsula during autumn, but there was only one report from The Lizard - a single at Poltesco Sept 1st.

130 Penwith records: Ponsandane, Penzance: singles Aug 5th and 18th. Cot: two Sept 27th with one remaining to Oct 22nd. St Loy: three Oct. Penberth: one Oct. Kenidjack: two Oct 22nd. Elsewhere there was maxima of 12 at St Austell sewage works Jan 12th, 'several' at Tehidy Apr 8th, six at Respryn Apr 27th and four at Par Dec 29th. GOLDEN ORIOLE - Oriolus oriolus Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring). Annual since 1971. This species may have been encountered more commonly in the nineteenth century. Some evidence of this is provided by Penhallurick (1976) who lists a number of records including an incredible flock of 40 at Trevethoe, Lelant in April 1870. Early twentieth century records are more sporadic but may be due to a lack of documentation rather than a paucity of birds. Cot: male May 16th JC Penlee Point: female May 20th GDL et al. Kenidjack: male May 25th MPB. Perranporth: male and female May 25th, three males + one female May 27th, one male May 28th DFS. Skewjack: two males May 27th, three imm. males/females May 28th - June 1st, imm. male June 2nd. BKM.TMC.JFR.JH. et al. Chilsworthy: male Aug 30th. SCa. The second best year this century. The county mainland total moves to c.97 since 1930. Of these, 54 have been identified as males, 27 as females and 16 not sexed. Monthly breakdown: Apr - 24, May - 61 (63%), June, July and August - three each, Sept - two and Oct - one. Top sites are; Skewjack - 12, Porthgwarra - six and Lizard - five.

RED-BACKED SHRIKE - Lanius collurio

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) Has bred sporadically in Cornwall, but not since 1968. There are unpublished records of birds on territory on Bodmin Moor in the 1970's, and in 1981 a male was noted for three days in June in the Upper Fowey Valley. There has however, been a catastrophic decline in the species status as a breeding bird in the U.K. and it now appears to have been completely extirpated. Wadebridge: male May 20th. NRP. et al. Caerthillian: juvenile Sept 2nd. JH.ARP. Sennen: juvenile Oct 9th - 11th. MJC.RI.JAN. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.68 since 1930. The Wadebridge bird is the third earliest ever. Monthly breakdown: May - five, June - seven, July - three, Aug - nine, Sept - 25, Oct - 18, Nov - one. (Thus Sept/Oct accounts for 63% of all records). Top sites are: Porthgwarra - 16, St Just - seven and Morwenstow - four. GREAT GREY SHRIKE - Lanius excubitor

Scarce passage migrant. Occasional winter visitor (declining). Garrow Tor: one Dec 13th. GRGS. Gwinear: one Dec 16th - 24th. JFR.GHT. et al. A return to normal after a blank in 1989. The county mainland total advances to c.60. Monthly breakdown: Jan, Feb and Mar - eight each, Apr - seven, June - one, Oct - ten, Nov - six, Dec - eight, and undated - four. Top sites: Bodmin Moor (south of A30) - 13, Goss Moor and Porthgwarra - five, Tamar Lakes and Bodmin Moor (north of A30) - four. 131 WOODCHAT SHRIKE - Lanius serrator Rare passage migrant (mainly spring). Annual since 1979. Portherras, Morvah: one Apr 8th - 12th. SGR. et al. Predannack Airfield: male May 13th/14th. SB.ARP. et al. Both accepted by BBRC. The county mainland total moves to c.42 - 28 of which have occured in the last twelve years. The first bird is the earliest ever county mainland arrival. Monthly breakdown: Apr - five, May - 19 (45%), June - four, July - two, Aug - eight, Sept - two and Oct - two. Top sites: Porthgwarra - 13, Lizard - eight and Lands End/Sennen - four.

JAY - Garrulus glandarius Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Influxes occurred in 1972, 1979, 1981 and 1983 - the last being well-documented in ' Birds in Cornwall 1983'. No change in status was reported in 1990 - the species remains widely distributed in suitable habitat. One to three birds were seen at many sites during the year and there was a maximum of five at Porth Res. Oct 14th. Possible autumn migrants included one at Caerthillian Oct 6th - the first there since 1983 - BC and one or two at Penberth and St Loy in October. MAGPIE - Pica pica

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms small roosts outside the breeding season. There appears to be no diminution in numbers - the species continues to be successful throughout the county. Maximum numbers: Mullion: 20 Jan 1st. Treesmill, Tywardreath: 130 Jan 24th (but possibly as many as 200). On one occasion a single flock of 100+ descended on a mink farm to feed. 60 Feb 3rd, 75 Dec 10th and 90 Dec 27th. RL. Mawgan Porth: 22 Oct 7th. Kenidjack: 40 Oct 13th. The last two concentrations may have contained migrants. The Treesmill flock is the second largest ever in Cornwall - beaten only by 277 at Scorrier in February 1913. CHOUGH - Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

Vagrant. Last bred in Cornwall in 1947. Subsequently, few were reported, with the last endemic bird noted at Stem Cove, Mawgan Porth in June 1973. Lamorna: one Jul llth/12th. BDB. Rumps Point: a pair were released here Oct 4th by Graham Dangerfield of The Hertfordshire Wildlife Centre, but quickly departed. One was washed up dead at Millook Oct 7th per TJD and the other was re-located near Port Isaac Oct 14th, remaining there into 1991. EG.RW. et al.

JACKDAW - Corvus monedula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms large roosts outside the breeding season but these are poorly documented. Tied birds are frequently reported. Very few reported for the first six months of the year, but a few notable movements in autumn. It obviously remains a highly successful species. Pentire: 100 Oct 5th.

132 Porthgwarra: 45 north Oct 8th, 100 east Oct 16th and 300 north Nov 5th. Nanquidno: 113 south Oct 15th. Sennen: 25 south Oct 15th. Lands End: 70 north Oct 22nd. A heavily speckled bird was noted at Marazion by SL. ROOK - Corvus frugilegus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Once again few flocks were reported, and of those that were, the majority may have been migrants. Boswednack: 200 Sept 27th. Porthgwarra: 130 Oct 8th. Towednack: 60 Oct 8th. Penlee Point: 220 Nov 14th. St Johns Lake: 100 Dec 27th. Unusual was a leucistic bird at Ruan Minor Jun 9th. PW. The following rookeries were reported during the year (with selected changes in the number of nests since 1975). For further information see 'B.T.O. National Census of Rookeries - The Cornish Results' by R.D. Penhallurick in 'Birds in Cornwall 1976' pps. 87-102. Newtown, Lanhydrock: 15 nests (72 in 1983, 38 in 1975). Lower Rosevine, Gerrans: 25 (21 in 1989, 44 in 1986). Upper Rosevine, Gerrans: 7 (11 in 1989, 28 in 1987, 11 in 1975). Churchtown Farm, Gerrans: 4 (8 in 1989, 23 in 1986). Perranwell Station: 50/60 (22 in 1975). Penhale, Mullion: 44 (28 in 1989, 2 in 1975). Nansmellyn, Mullion: 24 (4 in 1988). Trenance Vean, Mullion: 48 (39 in 1988). Trenance, Mullion: 14. Trewoon, Mullion: 3 - new rookery? Clator Barton, Mullion: 9 (19 in 1989). Chysons, Mullion: 18. Meres Valley, Mullion: 18 (30 in 1986, 21 in 1975). Old Vicarage, Mullion: 1 (4 in 1989). Chyvarloe, Loe Pool: 53 (28 in 1989, 69 in 1980). Tregathenan, Sithney: 25 (10 in 1989. The increase here is due to felling of trees at Tregadjack Farm). Whitewater, St Mawgan: 8 (21 in 1983, 5 in 1975). Springfield House, St Columb: 18 (16 in 1989). Higher Harlyn: 35 (13 in 1989, 51 in 1975). Pinkson Creek, Camel Est: 9. Gonvena, Wadebridge: 120 (166 in 1986, 100 in 1975). Coronation Park, Wadebridge: 37 (5 in 1989). Washaway: 35 (Pencarrow in 1975? - 50). Efford Downs: 46 (5/10 in 1987, 20 in 1986). Stratton: 17 (formerly at The Glebe where 21 in 1975). Union Hill, Stratton: 3 (new rookery). Diddies, Stratton: 17 (3 in 1975). Near Diddies, Stratton: 44 (4 in 1975). Foster Melliers, Bude: 21 (10 in 1975). Poughill Churchtown: 11 (51 in 1975). Reeds, Poughill: 74 (new rookery). Launcells Church: 53 (36 in 1986). The rookeries in the Gerrans and Mullion districts are particularly well documented annually and observers comment on changes at related sites. This type of data would be welcomed from other areas, but please use six-figured grid references to identify the sites or make reference to the appropriate entry in the 1975 Survey.

133 CARRION CROW - Corvus corone Abundant resident. Breeds. Few reports received but no reason to suspect any change in status. The largest flocks reported were 50 at Kit Hill Jan 6th and 22 feeding on seaweed at Portscatho May 24th, with 46 there Aug 12th. Pied birds were noted at Marazion, Launceston, Truro and Hayle.

RAVEN - Corvus corax Resident. Breeds. Roosts have been reported in the past but recent documentation is sadly lacking. Well reported from all parts of the county and apparently maintaining status. Breeding was proven at eleven localities and suspected at many others. Inland pairs were successful at Pontsmill, Treesmill and Luxulyan Quarry. Apart from St Anthony Head and Porthgwarra, all successful coastal pairs were noted on the north coast. However, this may reflect a lack of observation rather than a lack of success on the south coast, because there was no shortage of birds there. As usual family parties were noted in summer and autumn but flocks did seem a little smaller this year; the largest being 17 at Trekeivesteps Nov 10th. Of particular interest was the return of birds to Marazion - BP's first there for seven years. STARLING - Sturnus vulgaris Common resident. Breeds. Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Eastern European and Scandinavian populations of this species have diminished in recent years and this probably accounts for the corresponding deterioration in the size of Cornish roosts. Traditional roosts at Crowdy, Par, Stithians and Par all attract fewer birds. The decline continued in 1990. Roosts reported: St Columb Porth: 200/300 January (500/1000 in 1989). Marazion: 1000 Jun 29th (60% juvenile). Par: 5000+ September but only a few dozen by December. Trenance Lake, Newquay: 8000 Dec 30th. Warleggan: uncountable thousands gathering to roost late December. Other large flocks reported include 1000 at Kit Hill Jan 6th, 2000 at Crowdy Res. Mar 10th, 1000 at Colliford Res. Oct 15th, 1000 at Porthilly Nov 8th and 1000 at St Johns Lake Dec 27th. Autumn passage was noted during October with max of: Porthgwarra: c.8435 north between Oct 8th and 24th with max of 4135 Oct 22nd. Pentire: c.4500 between Oct 12th and 17th with max of 3000 Oct 15th. Trevose Head: 1000 Oct 15th. Lands End: 6000 Oct 18th. The B.T.O. Garden Bird Survey shows that the species occurs in 78% of SW suburban gardens, per RL. Unusual was a golden ginger coloured bird at Bude Jan 11th. FHCK.IK.

ROSE-COLOURED STARLING - Sturnus roseus Vagrant. Illogan: the adult from 1989 stayed until Mar 30th. JVPH. et al. Davidstow Airfield: juvenile Sept 15th/17th. DAC.IMEC.BTC.EG. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.34. Monthly breakdown: June - six, July - one, Aug - seven, Sept - four, Oct - nine, Nov - one and six unspecified. Top sites are Lands End - four, Davidstow - three and six sites with two. Both accepted by BBRC.

134 HOUSE SPARROW - Passer domesticus Common resident. Breeds. Cornish populations were very inadequately documented prior to 1980. In the current decade decreases were reported from many areas until about 1985, but there has been a welcome upsurge in numbers over the last five years. This type of fluctuation has been noted in the county previously. (See Penhallurick 1976 pps. 326/8). Although information was sparse this year it did include the second largest ever flock in the county and several reasonable gatherings at other sites. DIJ reported the species as 'very common near dwellings in the Camel Valley', RL stated that 'it apparently bred well' and J J encountered it widely in the Caradon district. Maximum numbers: Trethurgy: 30 January, 50 April. Gerrans: 60 Jul 13th, 75 Aug 15th, 250+ Oct 11th PR (The only larger flock reported on mainland Cornwall was '1000's roosting at St Just in 1908'.) Wheal Rodney: 70 in autumn. Holmbush: 60 September. 40 December. Pentire: 40 Oct 12th.

TREE SPARROW - Passer montanus Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Bred at Lands End in 1989. The 1989 breeding success was not repeated this year. Porthgwarra: one Apr 23rd. JFR. Trevose Head: singles May 1st and May 14th to 16th. SMC.PAM. et al. Rame Head: three Oct 12th. BTC. The county mainland total advances to c.283 (119 in 1976 alone). Birds have arrived in every month of the year with peaks of 122 (43%) in October, 57 in May and 28 in November. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 149 (53%), Wadebridge - 23, Nanquidno - 14, Lands End - 12 and Rame Head - ten. Records have been published in thirty years, but pre-1930 data is sketchy. RED-EYED VIREO - Vireo olivaceus Rare vagrant. Cot Valley: one Sept 21st to 30th. HF.MF.EW. et al. The tenth county mainland record - all since 1982. Apart from one at Trevose Head in 1983 they have all been found in West Cornwall. Four have arrived in September and six in October. This is the earliest to date. Accepted by BBRC. YELLOW-THROATED VIREO - Vireo flavifrons Exceptionally rare vagrant. Kenidjack: one Sept 20th to 27th. ARB. et al. The first record for the Western Palearctic of this fairly common summer visitor to much of eastern USA and south-eastern Canada. Whilst there is absolutely no doubt as to this birds' identity the record remains with the BOL awaiting formal ratification and acceptance onto the British list.

135 Yellow - throated Vireo Steve Bird CHAFFINCH - Fringilla coelebs Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roosts in winter. As anticipated only small flocks overwintered from 1989. Easily the largest ilock was 260 at Trevose Head Jan 13th which gradually decreased to 180 Mar 7th. Elsewhere there was 100 at Landulph and Rosudgeon, but no other reports of more than thirty together. J J reported the species from many localities in the Caradon district but there v/as a general paucity of breeding season information. Autumn passage commenced with one at Trevose Head Sept 10th but there was then a lull until Oct 8th. It was a relatively poor passage with the exception of Oct 14th to 22nd and Nov 3rd. Regular passage and maximum numbers: Trevose Head: c.2205 between Sept 10th and Nov 7th with max of 1664 flying south Oct 20th. Porthgwarra: c. 1902 between Oct 8th and Nov 3rd with max of 420 Oct 8th, 435 Oct

136 16th and 480 Oct 22nd. Cot: 700 flew south Oct 16th. Penberth: 400 flew east Nov 3rd. A heavy beech mast crop apparently induced most flocks to remain farther north and east in the second winter period, for the largest parties reported were a mere 80 at Trethurgy and 50 each at Gorran Haven and Redmor - the lowest winter totals for at least fifteen years. BRAMBLING - Fringilla montifringilla Winter visitor. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Numbers fluctuate wildly from year to year. 1990 proved to be a dismal year for Brambling in Cornwall. C.29 were reported in the first winter period. Autumn passage was equally unimpressive with a meagre 32 birds in Oct/Nov - the poorest passage since 1984, and only two remaining into December. Wadebridge: male Jan 20th. St Minver: two Jan 22nd. Landulph: one Jan 23rd to 28th. Holmbush: male Jan 27th, imm. male Feb 6th, different male Feb 17th to Mar 5th, female Mar 15th. Trelonk: 20 Feb 18th. Rosudgeon: one Feb 18th. St Austell sewage works: male Mar 13th. Porthgwarra: eleven between Oct 8th and Nov 3rd, including six on last date. Trevose Head: singles Oct 4th and 19th, three Nov 7th. Crowdy Res: singles Oct 16th, Nov 6th and December. Bosistow, Sennen: two Oct 19th. Penberth: one Oct 19th/20th. Porthcurno: two Oct 19th. St Loy: one Oct 20th to 22nd. Lands End: four Oct 23rd, one Oct 25th. Nanquidno: one Oct 25th. Rame Head: one Nov 4th. Treveal: one Nov 8th. Lanhydrock: one Dec 17th into 1991. SERIN -- Serinus serinus Rare pasage migrant and winter visitor. A potential breeding species (Cf. recent successes in south and east Devon). Porthgwarra: female Apr 20th, pair Apr 21st with one to 28th. JFR.ICW.DR.GW.WB. et al. Daymer Bay: pair May 5th to 22nd. DML.LFCL.SMC.LW. et al. Madron: male May 23rd to Jul 15th. JFR.MS. et al. Cot: two juveniles Oct 21st to 24th. MJC.AMH.BS. et al. Lands End: one flew southeast Oct 22nd. MJC.AMH.IK.BS.DJR. et al. The total of eight is the second highest ever and takes the county mainland aggregate to c.63 - all since 1965. Monthly breakdown: Feb - seven, Mar - five, Apr - five, May - six, June - one, Sept - two, Oct - 12, Nov - 18, Dec - seven. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 14, Marazion - nine, Lelant - seven and Camborne - four.

GREENFINCH - Carduelis chloris Common resident. Breeds. Winter visitor. Forms roosts in winter. Although relatively poorly documented in the past, this is a species which has increased quite dramatically in recent years probably as a result of the vast number of artificial feeding stations provided in the county. Apart from a huge mixed flock of c.1000 finches at St Ives Jan 7th, which was 137 comprised mainly of this species, and up to 80 visiting a St Columb Major garden daily from Jan to March, there was no more than 25 at any locality during the first winter period. There was no indication of breeding success or lack of it, but the species is apparently abundant and widespread. In autumn there was 72 at St Minver Aug 10th, but the first migrants were three at Trevose Head Sept 10th. Sporadic reports of small parties were received for the remainder of September and the first two weeks of October, but heaviest passage occurred Oct 18th to 25th, concurrent with the main movement of Chaffinch. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Trevose Head: c. 184 between Sept 10th and Nov 7th with max of 62 Oct 20th and 60 Nov 7th. Illogan: 66 Sept 28th. Mawgan Porth: 64 Oct 1st. Porthgwarra: c.988 between Oct 8th and Nov 5th with max of 257 Oct 19th and 363 Oct 22nd. Porth Joke: 65 Oct 19th. Lands End: 92 Oct 22nd, 1209 Oct 24th, 486 Oct 25th. Treen: 110 Oct 25th. Gwithian: 80 Nov 6th. The Lands End count of Oct 24th is the highest ever single day count on the county mainland. In the second winter period a total of 326 was trapped and ringed in a St Columb Major garden during Nov/Dec, 300 were at Boswednack during December and a flock of 150 was observed at Leedstown Dec 4th. GOLDFINCH - Carduelis carduelis Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Another mild winter enabled above average numbers to remain and survive in the county. The largest first winter and spring flocks included 20 at Pentewan Feb 10th, 100 at Loe Pool Mar 4th and 14 at Cot Apr 15th. Of the breeding season, EGe described it as4more numerous than I have ever known it at the Lizard' and RL observed 'a seemingly excellent season*. Post-breeding flocks were well reported and autumn migration, which was not confined to recognised migration 'hotspots', apparently ended Nov 11th. Maximum numbers: Marazion: 60 Aug 31st. St Just in Roseland: 60 Sept 5th. Lizard: noted Sept 9th to Oct 17th with max of 150 Sept 26th. Trevose Head: noted Sept 10th to Nov 7th with max of 65 Oct 7th. St Eval: 70 Sept 10th. Predannack: 100 Sept 15th. Burraton: 100 Sept 16th. Porth Joke: 70 Sept 18th. Porth Res: 65 Sept 29th. Mawgan Porth: 200 Oct 1st. Porthgwarra: c.251 flew south between Oct 8th and 23rd with max of 66 Oct 18th. Rame Head: 60 Oct 14th. Duckpool: 60 Oct 24th. Charms of 40/50 were noted at Lower Tamar Lake, Camel Est, Breney Common, St Erth and St Minver. Conversely, second winter flocks were disappointingly small; ten at Par Dec 9th being the sole double figure count.

138 SISKIN - Carduelis spinus Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Winter visitor. Breeding was not suspected in Cornwall until 1970 and not proved until 1984. Prior to 1970 Siskins were only rarely reported in winter, but the species can now be looked for with some confidence at several regular sites, and is becoming more frequent as a garden visitor to the ultra-attractive red peanut bags, particularly in late winter. This remarkable species goes from strength to strength. Despite the apparent scarcity of birds in December 1989, a total of c.43 individuals was reported in the first winter period of this year. The 13 at Gunnislake overwintered and attracted others - the flock peaking at 18 Feb 11th. Five were noted at Lostwithiel Jan 1st to Apr 4th, four visited Coldrose, Truro Jan 8th to Mar 17th, five were at Hayle Jan 29th to Mar 26th and four were noted sporadically at St Andrews Pool, Par Feb 10th to Mar 17th. At Holmbush, the December 1989 bird was not seen again, but up to four were present Mar 3rd to 31st. Elsewhere ones and twos were reported from Par, Lanhydrock Truro and St Cleer. Spring passage was poor - consisting only of singles at Mullion Apr 25th and Caerthillian May 2nd. Meanwhile, resident birds were already settling into the breeding season routine. From the reports received the breeding population continues to expand. Breeding was proven in the Gunnislake area where two young were accompanying five adults May 13th, whilst at Washaway, young were noted with adults during May and June. The latter probably derived from the Pencarrow/Dunmere woods where up to ten birds were observed in summer. Suitable conifer woodland also exists in the Respryn - Bonfarnel area, near Lostwithiel where several birds were observed May 13th. DAC describes the species as 'doing quite weir on Bodmin Moor and although only small parties were seen at Halvana, Smallacombe and Trezibbett, their continued presence is encouraging. A female at Tresaddern, St Columb Jul 1st to 3rd is not easy to put into perspective but may have been a wanderer from the Camel Valley population. Autumn passage was spectacular, particularly during the first two weeks of October. Passage commenced with two at Trevose Head Sept 27th and ended with one at Polbathic Nov 18th. C.5962 'bird days' were reported involving c.3882 birds. Apart from a large flock at Loe Pool there was undoubtedly some duplication as birds moved from site to site, although the vast majority were merely 'fly-overs'. Certainly, the overall pattern was of birds moving very rapidly through and being counted by observers conducting stationary visible migration counts. The highest single day counts were 484 Oct 2nd, 1071 Oct 6th (a total higher than all but three previous year counts), 551 Oct 8th and 436 Oct 11th. From Oct 17th, when 169 were counted, there was a substantial diminution in numbers with 76 Oct 20th, 31 Oct 22nd and no more than eleven on any subsequent day during the month. Migration in November was negligible with double-figure counts only on 5th (14) and 7th (11). Regular reports and maximum numbers: Trevose Head: c.92 between Sept 27th and Nov 7th with max of 49 Oct 20th. Loe Pool: c.150 Oct 1st increasing to c.200 Oct 15th. SB. Drift Res: c.360 between Oct 1st and 8th with max of 300 Oct 6th. JFR. Kenidjack: c.215 between Oct 1st and 21st with max of 54 Oct 1st. Porthgwarra: c.350 between Oct 2nd and 26th with max of 162 Oct 17th. Nanquidno: c.209 between Oct 2nd and 18th with max of 100 Oct 8th. Cot: c.422 between Oct 2nd and Nov 17th with max of 70 Oct 6th and 60 Oct 11th. Buryas Bridge: c.397 between Oct 2nd and 15th with max of 252 Oct 2nd and 100 139 Oct 15th. SMC.ABR. Penberth: c.199 between Oct 6th and 25th with max of 100 Oct 11th. Other sites which regularly attracted birds, but in generally lower numbers held maxima as follows: St Ives 80 Oct 6th, Lizard 50 Oct 6th and St Levan 120 Oct 8th. Elsewhere, 420 flew north at Towan Head, Newquay Oct 6th PAM, there was 60 at Towednack Oct 8th, 50 at Hayle Oct 12th, 35 at Porthcurno Oct 11th, 39 at Zennor Oct 14th, 90 at Polbrock Oct 16th plus numerous sightings throughout the county, although reports from the north and east were sparse and tended to be later than the main influx. The 420 at Towan Head is the highest ever count in Cornwall, the 300 at Drift equals the previous highest, the 272 at Buryas Bridge is the fourth highest and the 200 at Loe Pool the fifth highest. Relative to the autumn passage, the total of c. 103 birds in the second winter period was disappointing. The largest parties were up to 30 at Tresillian, ten at Pontsmill, Nov 29th to Dec 14th, 30 at Cotehele Dec 2nd and up to 20 at St Andrews Pool, Par. One at Boswednack Dec 13th was the only report west of Truro.

LINNET - Carduelis cannabina Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. This species has decreased over the last decade owing to loss of habitat and through the effects of weedkillers on food sources. Very few were reported for the first winter period; the maximum being 150 at Landulph Feb 18th, with 50 at Hayle and Pentewan. Spring passage was noted from Mar 16th to mid April. The Pentewan flock increased to 150 Mar 31st and 20/35 were observed at Falmouth, Par, Gerrans and St Austell. Breeding was poorly reported but there was no noticeable change in status this year. Post-breeding flocks were generally small during July but there was a distinct improvement from Aug 26th. Few were noted early in September but there was another influx late in that month. Numbers fluctuated throughout October and passage apparently ceased in mid November. Maximum numbers: Hayle Est: 400 Aug 26th. Rame Head: 400 Aug 26th, 300 Oct 3rd. Gwithian: 386 Aug 26th. Trevose Head: 290 Sept 25th to 27th. Lizard: 950 Sept 26th. Porthleven: 200 Oct 8th. Porthgwarra: 273 Oct 9th, 304 Oct 18th. 100/200 were also found at Witheybrook, Pendeen, Porth Joke, Sennen and Penpillick, Tywardreath. Only two reports of note were received for the second winter period; 80 at Golitha Nov 24th and 30 roosting in gorse at Treesmill Dec 10th. REDPOLL - Carduelis flamea

Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeding was first confirmed in Cornwall in 1968 and numbers have fluctuated annually since. Most breeding season records derive from the conifer plantations of Bodmin Moor and similar habitat near Bude and at Hustyn and Great Grogley Downs, near Wadebridge. Systematic checking of plantations in the Ladock and Truro areas might prove rewarding. Breeding was not proved anywhere in Cornwall this year but birds were present at Butter Tor Plantation, Halvana, Trezibbett and near Smallacombe on Bodmin Moor, and at Dunmere, Hustyn and Great Grogley Downs in the Bodmin/Wadebridge plantations. Numbers were extremely low but DAC observes 140 that 'it is doing quite well on Bodmin Moor'. None were noted in the first winter period and only six in spring. All were singles; at Trevose Head Apr 29th, May 1st and May 20th PAM, Skewjack May 5th BKM and May 27th JFR and Portwrinkle May 20th SCM. Autumn passage apparently commenced with nine at Gimble Pool Sept 1st and ended with one at St Johns Lake Nov 11th. per CFNHC. It was a disappointing passage involving c.21 birds. There were the two above plus: Holmans Moor: one Sept 28th. DSF. Crafthole: three west Oct 1st. SCM. Drift Res: one Oct 8th. DJC. Cot: one Oct 22nd. SCo.PG. Rame Head: two Nov 3rd. EJW. Camel Est: two Nov 5th. SMC. Lizard: one Nov 9th. BC. In the second winter period there was one at Smallacombe Nov 28th EG, six at Cotehele Dec 2nd JS.RSt., one at Lanivet Dec 2nd MB, one at Lynher Est. Dec 9th EJW and one at Truro Dec 27th SCW.

COMMON CROSSBILL - Loxia curvirostra An irruptive species which is not recorded annually in Cornwall. Bred in the county in 1985 and probably did so in 19787. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. A record-breaking year. None was noted in the first winter period and breeding was not proven anywhere, although there was a small party at Halvana at a relevant time. Influxes were evident during July and in mid-September and mid-October. The total of c.405 birds is more than double the previous highest (181 in 1985). This irruption, resulting from a failure in the cone crop in the traditional breeding areas in Northern Europe, was noted throughout the U.K. and in many instances Parrot Crossbills and Two-barred Crossbills accompanied their more common relatives. At least one large flock overwintered into 1991. Halvana: five (two males) Apr 23rd, six Aug 12th, 31 Dec 12th. DAC.SCM.JFR. Croft Pascoe: one June 10th to 13th, eight Jul 13th. BC.SB. Near Bodmin: seven Jul 3rd. PAM. Hessenford: one Jul 8th. SCM. Madron: 15 Jul 11th. JFR. Truro: 15 Jul 15th. BKM. Drift Res: regularly noted from Jul 17th (26) to Aug 6th (20) with max of 60 Jul 19th, six Sept 21st, five Nov 4th. JFR.MS.RJH. et al. Scorrier: nine Jul 22nd. BKM. Towednack: seven Jul 23rd. MJR. Goss Moor: one flew south Jul 23rd. SMC. Cam Euny: five Aug 1st. GGG.EGG. Mullion: one flew east Aug 2nd. ARP. Smallacombe: two Aug 12th. 15 Nov 28th. DAC.EG. Marazion: one Aug 20th. DSF. Treveal: one Sept 1st, nine Sept 16th. SGR. Portscatho: 40+ Sept 8th. RL. Crugmeer: one flew south Sept 12th. SCM. Padstow: three Sept 12th. SCM. Crowdy Res: ten Sept 13th, 20 Sept 28th, six Nov 28th, 17 Dec 9th, four Dec 31st. ML.DJ. et al. Saltash: one Sept 15th. EG. Kenidjack: one Sept 21st. JH. Nanquidno: 12 flew north Oct 7th. DAC.GJC. St Loy: one Oct 12th. JFR. Lizard: one flew south Oct 16th. BC. Nanjizal: 32 flew north Oct 16th. SC.DS.

141 Polbrock: 35 Oct 16th. GJC. Porthgwarra: one Oct 19th. JH. St Johns Lake: one flew west Oct 28th. SCM. Godolphin Cross: 26 Nov 5th. RBH. The 60 at Drift is the largest party ever reported in mainland Cornwall, whilst the Portscatho, Polbrock, Nanjizal and 31 at Croft Pascoe become the third, fifth, sixth and seventh largest respectively.

SCARLET ROSEFINCH - Carpodacus erythrinus

Vagrant. Cot: female/immature Oct 12th. MJC.RI. 1989 record Cot: female/immature Sept 17th. JRH. et al. These two take the county mainland total to seven. The 1990 bird is the latest ever. Monthly breakdown: Feb - one, May - one, Sept - three and Oct - two. Sites: Cot and Porthgwarra - two each, Treveal, Polzeath and Golant - one each. Other reports received did not exclude similar species.

BULLFINCH - Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Winter visitor. Generally overlooked, or ignored throughout the year but no reason to suspect any change in status except perhaps in the Camel Valley where DIJ reports 'a possible decrease*. One to three were reported from many localities in the first half of the year and there was maxima of four at Crowan Res. Jan 13th, five at Trethurgy Jan 18th and five at Loe Pool Feb 12th. Autumn pasage commenced with two at Porthmeor Sept 16th and ended with three flying south at Trevose Head Nov 7th. It was a light movement involving three at Towednack Oct 8th, a maximum of eight at Porthgwarra Oct 22nd, one at Trevose Head Oct 20th and four at Kenidjack Oct 21st. Very few were reported late in the year but five at Tresillian Nov 25th and five at Biscovey Dec 16tn were notable.

HAWFINCH - Coccothraustes coccothraustes

Occasional visitor with records at all times of the year. Has bred in Devon as far west as the county border but is not known to have done so in Cornwall. Treveal: one Oct 13th. JFR. Penberth: one Oct 14th. DS. Polhawn: one flew north Oct 23rd. RS. The county mainland total advances to c.72 (not including records of 'several' in 1829 and 'family party' in 1958.) Birds have arrived in every month except August but October remains the peak month with 19, followed by March - 13 and July, November and December with seven apiece.

LAPLAND BUNTING - Calcarius lapponicus Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor. Very rare inland. Porthgwarra: c.20 between Sept 28th and Oct 22nd with max of 14 Oct 19th. SMC.DJC. et al. Lizard: two Sept 28th, two flew south Oct 14th. ARP.BC. Portherras: two Oct 1st. JFR. Halzephron: one Oct 2nd to 7th. ARP.SB. Nanquidno/St Just Airfield: one Oct 3rd to 5th, two Oct 10th, three Oct 14th with

142 two to Oct 21st. JH.GCS.ICW. et al. St Levari: three flew west Oct 8th. GCS. et al. Lands End: one Oct 8th. GCS. et al. Loe Pool: five Oct 11th, 12 Oct 14th, five to 22nd and one to 27th. SB. Trevose Head: one Oct 13th, ten Oct 14th to 20th. SMC.EG. et al. Skewjack: one Oct 14th to 22nd, three Oct 23rd. GCS. et al. Sennen: one Oct 14th. GCS. et al. Treen: eight Oct 17th, 12 Oct 21st to 23rd. GCS. et al. Kenidjack: two Oct 19th. JFR. West Pentire: one Oct 19th. SMC.ABR. Caerthillian: one Oct 22nd. ARP. Penlee Point: one Oct 23rd. RS. Reskajeage: three Oct 24th, seven Oct 29th, eleven Oct 30th. DL. DuckpooT: one Oct 24th. IK. Pentire: one Nov 7th, two Nov 10th. SMC.EG. et al. Another excellent year - the total of c.95 being the fourth best ever. The county mainland total advances to c.860 - all since 1960. Of these, 637 (74%) have occurred in the last six years. With the exception of Crowdy Res./Davidstow, all of the regular sites scored again. Top sites remain Porthgwarra (records in 19 years), West Pentire - 13, Trevose Head - 12, Reskajeage - ten, Lizard and Penlee/Rame Head - nine years each. SNOW BUNTING - Plectrophenax nivalis Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. The two at Gwithian in late 1989 were again noted Feb 9th. CNT. In spring there was a single male at Lands End Mar 23rd. RWW. Autumn passage commenced with the earliest ever dated record - one at Porth Joke Sept 9th. PJD.RAJ.GHT. and ended late in November. It was a poor passage with only c.28 birds reported, with none remaining into the second winter period. Apart from the Porth Joke bird there was: Trevose Head: singles Oct 12th to 14th and Oct 29th. GW.DTC. Treen: singles Oct 18th and 25th. GCS.SMC. et al. Porthgwarra: one Oct 18th/19th. SMC.JH.ABR. et al. Bosistow: one Oct 19th. AMH.GCS. et al. Lands End: one Oct 19th, two Oct 22nd to 25th. IK.DJR. et al. Trevone: one Oct 19th. JS. Loe Pool: one Oct 22nd. SB. Luxulyan: one Oct 22nd, five Oct 29th. RJL.MG. Trelights: one Oct 23rd to Nov 2nd. EF. Pentire: singles Ot 27th to Nov 7th and Nov 26th. DLo.ML. Rame Head: one Nov 4th. SCM. Lizard: male Nov 5th. BC.ARP. Gwithian: five Nov 9th to 12th, four to 13th and two to 28th. PAR.DL. Bedruthan Steps: one Nov 11th. SMC. Treligga: one Nov 11th. GRGS. YELLOWHAMMER - Emberiza citrinella Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Diverse comments continue to be submitted. EGe reports that it remains scarce at The Lizard and MPV has found it very scarce in the Falmouth area. Along the Camel Trail DIJ rarely encountered the species but found it common inland, whilst RL considers that it remains widespread and LSP.EMP report a steady population at St Anthony. Very few were reported in either winter period, the maximum by far being 20 at Menabilly Mar 20th. Autumn passage was noted Oct 2nd to Nov 10th.

143 One to four birds were reported from Nanquidno, Pentire, Gerrans, Lizard and Cot Valley and larger numbers were observed as follows: Porthgwarra: c.14 between Oct 8th and Oct 23rd with max of six Oct 18th. Treveal: 15 Oct 18th. Treen: 15 Oct 20th. Trevose Head: four Oct 20th, two Nov 9th. CIRL BUNTING - Emberiza cirlus Rare resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant. Formerly more common; there has been a protracted decline over the last twenty years. In 1967, up to 15 pairs were located on breeding sites in the southeast of the county and despite poor coverage in subsequent years, birds were still present at 15 sites in the county in 1975. This decrease is part of a general contraction in range in the U.K. and it appears that the species will continue to move inexorably towards extinction as a breeding bird in Cornwall. Near Falmouth: Site one - two, including male in song Mar 9th. BC. Site two - pair Jun 6th and Aug 15th. SMC.JWa. Near Rame Head: Pair apparently on territory May 28th PMP. Perranporth area: None this year DFS. 1989 Landulph: two males Dec 17th. per CFNHC. The poorest year to date. ORTOLAN BUNTING - Emberiza hortulana Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Trevorrian: one Sept 9th. JFR. Cape Cornwall: one Oct 3rd. JFR. The county mainland total moves to c.71, 46 (65%) of which have occurred in the last seven years. Monthly breakdown: Apr - one, May - three, Aug - four, Sept - 47 (66%) and Oct - 16. Top sites are Porthgwarra and Sennen - 11 each, Nanquidno - eight, Lizard/Caerthillian - seven and Trevose Head - four. 50 (70%) have occurred west of St Ives/Marazion. RUSTIC BUNTING - Emberiza rustica Very rare vagrant. Lands End: juvenile Oct 14th to 17th. GCS. et al. The first for the Cornish mainland.

144 REED BUNTING - Emberiza schoeniclus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. After a period of apparent rapid increase in the 1970's and early 1980's with birds expanding their range into drier habitat, there has been a steady deterioration in recent years. EGe states that 'it remains very scarce at The Lizard' whilst on Bodmin Moor, where 184 pairs were located in 1984, there were very few records this year - and all of those derived from the Siblyback - Bastreet marshes. Elsewhere, six pairs bred at Marazion and three pairs held territory at Bude Marshes and Par. The only sizeable first winter flock was 20 at Landulph Jan 13th and there were no reports of spring migrants. Autumn passage commenced with two at Porth Joke Sept 18th and continued until Nov 7th when four flew west at Trevose Head. c.131 birds were reported from typical sites. The maximum included: Porthgwarra: c.42 between Oct 8th and 22nd with max of 18 Oct 18th and ten Oct 22nd. Lands End: c.36 between Oct 10th and 24th with max of 22 Oct 22nd. Trevose Head: ten between Oct 13th and Nov 7th with max of five Oct 20th. Kenidjack: five Oct 21st. Camel Est: 18 Nov 5th. Second winter period flocks were small with ten at Cargreen Dec 24th, the largest. CORN BUNTING - Miliaria calandra Resident. Breeds. Flocks outside of the breeding season. Cornwall remains the stronghold for this species in the south west, with the majority found along a narrow coastal strip in the north of the county between Rumps Point and Godrevy Head. A steep downward trend nationally is reflected in continually reducing numbers in Cornwall. This trend appears to be irreversible and is particularly unfortunate because until recently the local population had appeared to be stable. None were observed at The Lizard this year and abandonment of this area now seems complete. On the Lands End peninsula there was one at Nanquidno Apr 8th and two at Nanjizal Apr 10th and 21st. JFR. Two at Kenidjack Sept 22nd BTC were most unusual. What has happened to the previously healthy breeding population between Godrevy and Perranporth? PAR reports one or two pairs possibly still breeding at Godrevy/Gwithian but there was no information for the North Cliffs - RAF Portreath - St Agnes - Perranporth stretch of coast. However, 25 at Tolgus Dec 24th may indicate a remnant population on the nearby coastal strip BKM. A maximum of only 26 singing males was reported between Perranporth and Padstow, and of these, 14 were at Trevose Head SMC, five at Porth Joke and three at St Eval Airfield. At the last named locality the loss of suitable nesting habitat due to intensive grazing by sheep may explain one of the primary causes of the North coast decline. Flocks in this area included 12 at Winnards Perch Jan 6th, 31 at Porth Joke Sept 18th and 26 at Trevose Head Oct 10th. The decline, due to change of land use was also evident at Pentire where DLo has noted a decrease to only one singing male this year. In the far north there was a single bird in the Trevalga - Short Island area Jun 10th. LAZULI BUNTING - Passerina amoena Escapee? Exceptionally rare vagrant? Murrayton, near Looe: male Sept 15th to 26th. Mr & Mrs TDF.SCM. et al. This species has not yet been admitted to the British list and it seems a very unlikely 145 candidate for transatlantic vagrancy, occurring no nearer than the central states of North America and south west Canada as a breeding species and wintering mainly in California and Mexico. Despite this the species has been noted on the Atlantic seaboard of the USA (in Maryland) and also in Norway and Scotland. It is kept in captivity in the U.K., albeit not commonly, and the possibility of escape cannot be overlooked. At best the species might be admitted to Category 'D' on the British list.

EXOTICA SACRED IBIS

Tregawne, Looe: one Aug 28th NW. MACAW sp. Hayle: two Jan 20th DJ. COCKATIEL Tregudda Gorge: one feeding on the seeds of Thrift Jul 17th. AL. HILL MYNAH Pendoggett: one Nov 2nd AL.

In addition many reports were received of exotic waterfowl at Boscawen Park, Truro. These included up to four Mandarin, two Yellowbill, two White-cheeked Pintail, Pochard and Pintail. It transpires that these birds were released by the Truro City Parks Dept. However, the Dept does not accept responsibility for the drake Mandarin which has been in residence on the Truro River for the last two years. 1989 Bar-headed Goose: Colliford Res. one Jun 10th. per CFNHC.

B.B.R.C. Decisions The following records, none of which has appeared in 'Birds in Cornwall', have all been rejected. 1990 Bonaparte's Gull Portreath Jan 26th Loe Pool Feb 18th Alpine Swift Colliford Res. Jun 20th American Robin Near Newquay Feb 9th 1989

Little Shearwater Pendeen Aug 29th Bulwer's Petrel Newquay Jul 23rd Magnificent Frigatebird Porthcurno Aug 26th Blue-winged Teal (female) Drift Sept 13th Black-headed Bunting (male) Wadebridge Jun 13th

146 1988 Little Shearwater Pendeen Oct 9th Rufous Turtle Dove St Merryn (two) Apr 30th Red-throated Pipit Nanquidno Oct 24th Rose-coloured Starling Downderry Oct 2nd Little Bunting Truro (two) Apr 12/13th 1987

Gyrfalcon Bodmin Moor Feb 3rd

Birds handled by the R.S.P.C.A., Perranporth during 1990 by Rex Harper

Black-t hroated Diver 1 Great Northern Diver 1 Northern Fulmar 4 Manx Shearwater 5 Northern Gannet 19 Cormorant 4 Shag 2 Grey Heron 7 Mute Swan 41 Shelduck 2 Wigeon 1 Mallard 7 Tufted Duck 1 Sparrowhawk 2 Buzzard 16 Kestrel 10 Peregrine 2 Pheasant 6 Water Rail 1 Coot 1 Lapwing 1 Dunlin 1 Great Skua 1 Black-headed Gull 13 Common Gull 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull 1 Herring Gull 143 Great Black-backed Gull 1 Kittiwake 1 Little Auk 5 Puffin 1 Stock Dove 1 Woodpigeon 23 Collared Dove 13 Barn Owl 5 Tawny Owl Long-eared Owl 1 Swift Kingfisher 1 Green Woodpecker Swallow 1

147 House Martin 1 Wren 1 Dunnock 2 Robin 12 Blackbird 44 Song Thrush 8 Mistle Thrush 2 Lesser Whitethroat 1 Firecrest 1 Blue Tit 2 Magpie 8 Jackdaw 60 Rook 6 Carrion Crow 26 Raven 2 Starling 12 House Sparrow 13 Chaffinch 6 Greenfinch 6 Goldfinch 5 Yellowhammer 1

Total 578 In addition a total of 392 oiled auks, 90% Guillemot and 10% Razorbill were handled and 297 domesticated or caged birds were processed.

148 THE CHANGING STATUS OF THE HEN HARRIER IN CORNWALL The first record of Hen Harrier in Cornwall relates to a ringtail obtained on 28th October 1796 which on dissection proved to be a male (Penhallurick 1978). During the early to mid nineteenth century breeding took place across much of southern England and probably occurred in Cornwall (Watson 1977). In Penhallurick 1978, F.V. Hill (1863) wrote that the Hen Harrier was 'rather rare, occasionally breeding on the borders of Goonhilly Downs'. Despite the fact that Hen Harriers were recorded in June at this time, the author considers that Hill was mistaken and that the breeding birds reported to him were in fact Montagu's Harriers which regularly bred in the area. Also in Penhallurick, Clark (1906) wrote of nesting on Goonhilly until 1841, but the sole source acknowledged is Hill (1863). Cleave, in 1906, was shown a nest where three young had been reared in 1904, but this record is also considered unacceptable because the nest was sited some 25 yards above the ground in an Oak tree and Hen Harrier nests are always built on, or near the ground. From the 1890's to the 1950's records of Hen Harriers were sparse with only a handful to 1930. This coincided with a severe decline in the species' status nationally, mainly as a result of the activities of Man (eg: persecution on grouse moors and other keepered areas, egg collecting, taxidermists etc.) bringing the species to the brink of extinction with remnant populations only in Orkney, The Hebrides and Ireland. (Brown 1976).

Surprisingly, since 1950 the population in Britain has steadily increased and even accelerated as a result of protection and the planting of conifers in upland areas. This coincided with a marked increased in the number of Hen Harriers migrating through, and wintering in Cornwall (fig. 1). This trend has continued and the Hen Harrier has become a regular migrant and winter visitor to the county.

Since 1960, five regular wintering areas have become established; West Penwith Moors, Lizard Downs, mid-Cornwall moors, Bodmin Moor and the area of moorland which straddles the county border with Devon in the Kilkhampton - Hartland district.

Strangely the area around Stithians Reservoir and Carnmenellis, although apparently eminently suitable, has never held a regular wintering population, but could be used in the future should traditional sites become overcrowded. Daytime hunting territories Birds hunting in the wintering areas are usually found within 7km of their roost site. On the West Penwith Moors, Johns (1971) discovered that there were two main hunting areas, one between Rosewall Hill, near St Ives and Chykembro Common with the main roost midway (5km) between these points, and the other in the Bartinney Downs - Boswens Common area, some 14km from the nearest known roost. The presence of birds so far from the roost may indicate the existence of a previously undiscovered roost site in the Bartinney Downs area. These hunting areas appeared to be still intact in the 1990's.

Hen Harriers on the Lizard apparently hunt within 7km of the roost, as do inidiviuals occasionally using the Newlyn East site in mid-Cornwall.

Birds, presumably from the Bodmin Moor and mid-Cornwall moors, are occasionally seen hunting at the Camel Estuary; distances of 20km and 11.5km respectively. They probably hunt on the estuary when prey is scarce inland.

149 Hunting territories probably exist at other wintering areas but there are, as yet, no observations to support this. Roosting Harriers differ from most raptors in that they roost communally on a regular basis, mainly in winter, but often on migration and on breeding grounds at the beginning and end of the breeding season (Watson 1977 and pers.obs.).

The first observation of communal roosting in Cornwall relates to 17th December 1978 when C.C. Barnard watched four birds go to roost at dusk in an area of bracken and burnt heather on the West Penwith Moors.

Communal roosting had undoubtedly occurred prior to this observation, but the habit had not been widely recognised prior to publication of Donald Watson's fine monograph The Hen Harrier' in 1977.

Since that time, six main communal roosts have become established, one roost in each wintering area except Bodmin Moor which has two. Another eight roost sites have been occupied on an occasional basis (fig 2), with possibly other infrequently used sites yet to be discovered.

Cornish roost sites are all in rank vegetation associated with the uplands. The sites range in altitude from 91m on the Lizard to 274m on the western side of Bodmin Moor. The remaining sites fall between 121m and 198m.

The four dominant plant species at the sites are grass (Molinia), bracken, gorse and heather, with the exception of a former site at Dozmary Pool which was dominated by rush (Juncus). This site along with three others having been drowned by the Colliford Reservoir (Chown and Akers 1984).

Roosting occurs on the ground, mainly on swathes or flattened patches of vegetation surrounded by dense cover afforded by the previously named plant species. In certain circumstances when the roost site is exposed to strong winds or rain, birds at Tregonetha roosted at the base of gorse bushes and in the sides of vegetated banks; remains of tin-streaming activities.

The roosting stations vary in size from the area of a man's footprint just large enough to accommodate a bird, to lm in diameter. Each bird occupies its own station but usually in close proximity to others. At Tregonetha, in winter 1990/91 the harriers roosted within an area of 80m x 80m with the main concentration in an area of 30m x 30m situated on the lower slope of the valley side. Harriers will sometimes desert a traditional roost but always tend to occupy another site in the same general area. For example, in West Penwith during the winter 1984/85 the roost moved from Mulfra to Eagles Nest and then back to Mulfra mainly as a consequence of severe weather; this involved a move of about 5km. Also, at Tregonetha in the winter of 1986/87, when the roost was burnt out, the harriers roosted 300m away on the more exposed hillside.

The behaviour of harriers at a roost is never the same on any two nights, even under similar conditions. There is however, more certainty about the time that Hen Harriers arrive at the roost site. Generally the first bird will arrive between thirteen minutes before sunset

150 and seven minutes after sunset with settling on the roosting station occurring at any time between 35 minutes before and 45 minutes after sunset, although more usually between 15 and 20 minutes after sunset. At every roost harriers were noted approaching from many different directions. Once in the vicinity of the roost the harriers usually circle low over the area and appear to be hunting, but only when there is significant breeze to enable lift. In conditions where there is little or no wind, birds tend to perch and preen on the exposed moorland or in adjacent fields. Also in these conditions, birds hunting at some distance from the roost, may roost in the feeding area in order to conserve energy which would otherwise be expended in flying to and from the main roost site.

Arrival and departure The build up and dissipation of harriers throughout the course of a winter generally follows the same pattern. Starting with the first arrivals in October, which may also include migrants using the roost, numbers increase to a peak from mid-December to late January. This is about the time when a mid-winter influx of birds driven off the continent by bad weather may occur. From mid-February numbers decrease until early April, by which time the wintering population has moved out. However from mid-March to May returning migrants (presumably from France) also use the roosts. (Fig. 3 shows a set of observations at the Tregonetha roost over the winter period). The graph does not show an even trend, due mainly to observer error in counting-accuracy and birds roosting at other sites. It does however show the general trend throughout the winter.

Figs. 4-7 show monthly trends over seven winters for the main wintering areas in the county. Fig. 4 is typical of a site which holds birds throughout the winter with highest counts in December, January and February.

Fig. 5 is interesting in that it shows the peak months to be December and February with a dramatic decrease in January. This is probably due to resident bird species deserting the moor in severe weather and as a large proportion of the harriers' prey consists of birds, the predator would be forced into areas where food is more abundant. The subsequent increase in February probably coincides with ameliorating weather conditions allowing both harriers and prey species to return to the moors. Figs. 6 and 7 are the reverse of one another with peak numbers in mid to late and early to mid-winter respectively. This suggests that Bodmin Moor is used more by spring migrants and the Lizard more by autumn migrants.

Autumn migrants arrive mainly between mid-October and mid-November, but there are regular reports of harriers arriving in September and exceptionally in late August, as did an individual at Redhill Downs on 27th August 1984.

Evidence of Hen Harriers moving into Cornwall as part of a mid-winter influx is supported only by a handful of sightings of birds at a considerable distance from the wintering areas.

There has been single ringtails at Downderry on 29th December 1974, Lynher Estuary on 14th January 1982 and College Reservoir on 11th February 1984 (although this was possibly a wintering bird from the mid-Cornwall roost).

151 It is suggested by Watson (1977) that these mid-winter birds have moved west from the continent to escape severe weather. Spring migrants pass through from mid-February to the end of May, with the main passage occurring between 5th and 19th April. There are four records for the month of June; all ringtails, at Tregaseal on 16th in 1963, at Eagles Nest on 18th and 25th in 1978, at Dozmary Pool on 3rd in 1979 and at White Downs on 15th in 1981.

Sex composition of roosts The ratio of males to females (calculated from data gathered by the Hen Harrier Winter Roost Survey 1983/84 - 1989/90); 36:26, follows the general concensus that a higher proportion of males are found wintering on the western side of the British Isles. This is probably due to the accepted theory that the smaller, more agile males are better adapted to catching passerines, which they possibly follow to the milder western side of the country, whilst the larger females can remain in the harsher conditions and survive as a consequence of their ability to take larger and more diverse prey.

Watson (1977) refers to adult males, whereas the vast majority of the males at Cornish roosts are immatures (second and third winter-plumaged birds), which can incidentally appear pure grey, and are often mistaken for adults.

Diet Diet of Hen Harriers in winter consists primarily of birds and mammals (voles to rabbits), the proportion of each prey type depending upon its availability.

Fig 8 contains the results of the analysis of 32 pellets collected from the Tregonetha roost in winter 1990/91. The pellets containing rabbit were from three or four different carcasses; the bird feeding from each carcass for several days. A further 98 pellets were collected from the same roost that winter; 91 contained bird feathers and the remainder, mammal fur.

A high proportion of bird prey is not unexpected as the roost contained up to five grey males, one first winter male and a female; the males being more adept at catching bird prey. Feathers of Woodcock were also noted at the roost site, but it is not certain whether the predator was a harrier or perhaps, a Merlin.

Origin of Cornish Hen Harriers The origin of Cornish Hen Harriers has not yet been confirmed. There are in fact only two recoveries of marked birds in southern England. The first was a wing- tagged bird observed in Dorset in the winters of 1981/2 and 82/3, which had been marked as a nestling in Orkney and the other is of an adult female ringed in Belgium and recovered in the winter of 1984/5. (Clark and Watson 1990). Our Hen Harriers probably originate from breeding populations in the north and west of the British Isles, ie: mainland Scotland, Hebrides, Orkney, Wales and Ireland. This is suggested by the distribution of migrant records on the coast of Cornwall, with 76% of autumn and 68% of spring birds being recorded on the north coast. Also, the flight directions of migrants listed in fig. 9, lend support to the theory of birds breeding to the north of the county.

Other species at Hen Harrier roosts Merlins and Short-eared Owls are regularly encountered at harrier roosts. Up to three Merlins are frequently noted and similar numbers of Short-eared Owls are 152 reported in winters when the species is numerous. Occasionally, up to six of both species have been observed at a few sites. Other species hunting in the vicinity of the harrier roosts include Barn Owl, Buzzard, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk and more rarely Peregrine and Long-eared Owl. Conflict between harriers and other species is infrequent but has been observed between regular species at the roost. On two occasions, Barn Owls which have strayed into the roost area, were immediately set upon and driven out by two harriers. Merlin, Carrion Crow and on one occasion, Peregrine have all been seen to mob Hen Harriers. Summary The Hen Harrier has never been proved to breed in Cornwall but breeding in the late 1700's is probable. After a great scarcity of records between 1890 and 1950 the Hen Harrier has become a well established winter visitor with wintering on five areas of moorland throughout the county and communal roosting at six sites on a regular basis. Acknowledgments I wish to thank S.M. Christophers for allowing access to his complete set of CBWPS Annual Reports, providing summary sheets of county reports for 1981 to 1988, information from Hen Harrier records for 1990, personal knowledge of Hen Harriers in mid-Cornwall and advice concerning the draft of this article. I would also like to thank Roger Clarke for providing survey sheets of Cornish roost sites from the Hen Harrier Roost Survey 1983/4 to 1988/9. References Brown, L: 'British Birds of Prey' New Naturalist, Collins, (Bloomsbury Press) 1976. Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Annual Reports 1931 to 1990. Chown, D.J. and Akers, P.G.: 'A Survey of Wintering Birds of Bodmin Moor 1984/5'. Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation 1984. Clarke, R. and Watson, D.: 'The Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus) Winter Roost Survey in Britain and Ireland'. Bird Study vol 37, pps. 84-100. 1990. Gensbol, B.: 'Collins Guide to the Birds of Prey of Britain and Europe'. Collins 1984. Hammerstrom, F.: 'Harrier Hawk of the Marshes'. Smithsonian Institute Press. 1986. Johns, J.H.: 'Birds of Prey wintering on inland moors between St Ives and Sennen Cove, West Penwith'. CBWPS Annual Report 1971. Penhallurick, R.D.: 'The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly'. Headland Publications. 1978. Watson, D.: 'The Hen Harrier'. Poyser. 1977. G.J. Conway, Tregenna, Cooksland, Bodmin.

153 Minimum numbers of Hen Harriers wintering in Cornwall 1960/61 - 1990/91 Fiji Number

154 155 156 157 Fig. 8 Analysis of 32 pellets collected from the Tregonetha roost during winter 1990/91.

Prey items Date of collection 25/ 16/12/90 12/1/91 Total Mammals Rabbit 9 _ 5 14 Field Vole - 2 1 3 Unidentified 2 2 - " Birds

Wren _ 1 1 Skylark? - 2 - 2 Thrush sp. - 1 - 1 Small passerine 5 7 12 Grand total 35 Fig. 9 Flight direction of migrant Hen Harriers. Autumn

Ringtail flying south over sea at Bude on 8th November 1981. Single bird flying south at Bude on 13th November 1982. Spring

Male flying northeast at Towednack on 7th March 1966. Ringtail flying north near Helford on 31st March 1981. Ringtail flying northeast at Dunmere on 25th March 1991.

158 DIVING BIRDS WINTERING IN ST AUSTELL BAY by Roger Lane This article is the result of five years of regular observations within the St Austell Bay area of Cornwall. Observations were made on a daily basis when weather allowed, throughout the winters from 1986/7 to 1990/1. Four observation points were habitually used; Porthpean, Charlestown, Carlyon Bay and Par/Spit Beach with Polkerris as an additional site during easterly - biased winds.

St Austell Bay lies to the southeast of the town and is defined by the resorts of Porthpean in the west and Par in the east with Carlyon Bay central along its length. Its deepest indentation forms the most northerly point on the south Cornwall coastline and over two centuries ago stood at the mouth of an estuary which reached four kilometres inland. The bay is approximately six kilometres wide and the three kilometres of embayment is well sheltered by Gribben Head in the east and Black Head in the west. The latter in particular provides excellent shelter from the prevailing westerly winds. Porthpean which lies in the lee of this headland is the most favoured site both for numbers of birds and diversity of species. The floor of the Bay is a mixture of flat sands, mostly in the east, and rocky, seaweed - covered ridges, mainly in the west.

Species encountered may be grouped as follows:- divers, grebes, sea-duck and others. Divers The bay attracts three of the four British species, only the very rare White-billed Diver not having yet been recorded. Red-throated Diver: this is the rarest of the divers recorded along the South Cornwall coast, despite being the most common British species. Although scarce and irregular in St Austell Bay, it is annual with peaks in Oct/Nov and Feb/Mar coninciding with 'autumn' and 'spring' migration. Very few actually overwinter with a low point in Dec/Jan. It may occasionally be encountered in September or April. The maximum number noted at any one time is ten or more, but this is exceptional and during migration. In winter when only two or three may be present, they may prove difficult to locate. It is the only diver species which shows a marked preference for the Par Bay and Polkerris area where one or more may often be seen in easterly - biased winds. However, whilst scarce and usually alone or in pairs, it may frequently be found off Porthpean or Carlyon.

Black - throated Diver: its' status within the Bay is at best variable, with numbers inconsistent from year to year. During winter 1989/90 more than thirty were recorded on occasions, but this was exceptional, the wintering norm being two to four birds. In autumn only small numbers are noted as they progress to their favoured wintering grounds west of Dodman Head. Conversely, almost every spring, sizeable groups of ten to thirty birds occur well offshore as migrants move north and east. These birds rarely linger for long. It tends to be a highly mobile species within the confines of the Bay and can travel around it in an hour or so. It is best searched for off Porthpean, an area the vast majority seem to prefer during their short stay.

Great Northern Diver: This is the diver most likely to be encountered in the Bay, generally outnumbering all other divers as much as 10:1 at any time. The Bay is also the main stronghold for the species in the county with a regular wintering population of at least twenty birds. It is continuously present from October to May, with numbers gradually building up from early October until December/January when, barring freak weather (i.e. severe cold or very strong winds), numbers will remain stable until March. The resident population is then bolstered by migrants moving north and east, and at such times as many as 35 birds may be present. It may be sighted off any of the localities mentioned, usually singly or in pairs, but occasionally in small parties late in the afternoon as roostig birds band together. 159 Apart from Shag and Common Scoter it is the most frequently encountered species in the Bay. Grebes: Four of the five British grebes are regularly seen in the Bay, whilst the fifth, the Little Grebe is annual on nearby Par Beach Pool.

Great Crested Grebe: Although a relatively common bird in much of Britain, it is a generally scarce visitor to Cornwall with most occuring on the Tamar/Lynher Estuary complex and in Carrick Roads. In St Austell Bay it is normally seen singly as an autumn or spring migrant in October/November and February/March respectively. Two or three per annum is the norm, but severe weather elsewhere may produce a 'mini - influx' into the county and at such times up to five have been seen in the Bay. Porthpean is the most rewarding site, but Polkerris is also favoured. Strangely it has rarely been noted off Carlyon. Despite its size the Great Crested Grebe may prove very elusive, spending much time below the ssurface of the water when feeding.

Red - necked Grebe: Although not a British resident and formerly considered the rarest of the grebes in Cornwall recent observations have proved the Red - necked Grebe to be more common than the Black-necked Grebe and apart from the Tamar/Lynher population, more numerous than the Great Crested Grebe. This misconception probably derives from the species' solitary nature, off - shore habits and problems with field identification. In Cornwall its' main wintering grounds lie to the west of Dodman Head but a reasonable number spend some time in St Austell Bay, at least in transit and in cold weather movements. Up to three birds may be present at such times, but overwintering is probably not annual, although birds have been noted in three of the five winters. Birds may be sighted in any month from September to April inclusive with some of the late birds in full summer plumage. It seems to prefer the western end of the Bay near Porthpean but has often appeared off Carlyon and occasionally off Spit. It is virtually absent from Par Bay in the east. Despite the increasing number of records it remains an extremely worthwhile find amongst the more common Slavonian Grebe. Slavonian Grebe: This is the most numerous of the grebes occuring in St Austell Bay. It arrives rather late, usually in November when up to six may be present. By the end of the year this number may have doubled and these birds will overwinter. In late Febuary and during March this flock is augumented by a few spring migrants and the total in the Bay often peaks at around fifteen birds. Although gregarious, they are seldom all together, parties of up to six at Porthpean, four at Carlyon and pairs or individuals elsewhere being more typical. Apart from Gerrans Bay where up to twenty occur, St Austell Bay appears to be the most regular wintering site in Cornwall. Several attain breeding plumage before departure in March and early April. Black - necked Grebe: By contrast this is by far the rarest of the grebes occurring in the Bay, and indeed in Cornwall. It is probably just annual in the Bay, in November, but even then it is seen only singly or as a pair. The species is not thought to overwinter in the Bay. In fact the few that are seen are probably en route to the only known regular wintering area in Cornwall, Carrick Roads, where the flock may reach double - figures. Unlike the Slavonian Grebe it is not an 'ocean' species, preferring instead more sheltered estuarine waters. Of the few birds observed three or four have been off Porthpean, two or more off Carlyon and one, in late spring, off Polkerris. Distant birds may occasionally be overlooked on the assumption that they are Slavonian Grebe.

Sea-duck: five species are considered here, although the Scuap could just as easily fall into the next category (estuarine duck) in Cornwall.

160 Eider: This species is erratic in its' occurrence, its' numbers apparently depending on the severity of weather conditions further north. It is probably annual with numbers varying from one to twenty five or more. Most occur in winter and small groups of less than ten may overwinter and occasionally remain throughout the summer months. Arrival times are irregular but the prime months appear to be November to March. Once a party has arrived and settled down they may frequent the same area of the Bay for several months. Perhaps, because of the presence of mussel-beds in Par Bay, the species is one of the few which shows a preference for the eastern end of the Bay. It also occurs off Porthpean and occasionally off Carlyon. Approximately 90% of birds are brown females or immature males; the very attractive black and white male being quite rare and certainly not annual. Diving groups very often work in line - astern formation, diving almost in unison.

Long - tailed Duck: This elegant duck is unfortunately rare and elusive in the Bay, as it is in Cornwall generally. Although one or two are seen in most winters between November and April, it is probably not annual. It seldom remains more than a few days and even then it is extremely mobile flying from one location to the next. It has a distinctive flight; rapid with bowed wings, particularly when landing, and swinging from side to side - and it is this that often confirms its identification. On the water it can be difficult to locate as it has a rapid diving rate. It cannot be looked for with any degree of confidence owing to its mobility and scarcity.

Common Scoter: With a winter population of fifty, sometimes one hundred or more birds this is the most common winter bird in St Austell Bay, outnumbering even Shag and Razorbill. Numbers are variable from week to week as passing flocks 'drop in'. The total is seldom in a single raft but broken down into smaller flocks, usually of twenty or less and well distributed around the Bay and occurring off all sites from east to west. The peak month tends to be November and although the Bay is probably the main overwintering site in Cornwall, there is a tendency for birds to disperse westwards from mid - December. The vast majority of wintering birds are females, the males having passed through early, in July. Virtually any group of dark diving duck in the Bay will prove to be Common Scoter although Velvet Scoter, Eider and Long-tailed Duck may asssociate with them. In flight this species typically forms wavering lines and when diving, most submerge in unison.

Velvet Scoter: This handsome duck is unfortunately much rarer than the Common Scoter with which it frequently loosely asssociates. It is not recorded annually in the Bay, but may pass through unnoticed with migrant Common Scoter flocks. They have been recorded in every month from October to April but their stay is typically short. When present, it may turn up almost anywhere in the Bay. The maximum recorded together is four. Scaup: The Scaup is generally classified as a true sea - duck and for convenience sake is dealt with as such here. However, in Cornwall it tends to be more estuarine and freshwater orientated, with for instance, more seen on Par Beach Pool than in the Bay. Despite several probables seen flying in the Bay, the only confirmed sightings are of a drake seen close inshore in Par Bay, close to Par River and four on the sea just outside the study area at Mevagissey.

Other species: Five other duck, Cormorant, Shag and five species of auk are considered here. Goldeneye: Slightly more common than Scaup in the Bay but nevertheless still very irregular. Singles have been noted in Par Bay twice and off Charlestown once. It tends to be considerably more common on estuaries and freshwater, thus the birds in the Bay probably emanate from Par Beach Pool where small numbers are reported annually. 161 Red - breasted Merganser: Normally an estuarine duck in winter with an annual flock averaging fifty birds on Carrick Roads, it occurs in St Austell Bay singly as a migrant in early winter and in spring. It has been noted in each winter, mostly in Par Bay but also off Porthpean. As with the previous species sightings probably relate to birds displaced from Par Beach Pool, where it is reported almost annually, particularly in spring.

Pochard, Tufted Duck and Goosander: The first two species are regular winter visitors and passage migrants on Par Beach Pool. Small groups of Pochard are often seen to fly from the Pool out over the Bay, at dusk and although it has not actually been encountered on the sea the possibility should not be overlooked. It probably uses the Bay in extreme weather when freshwater is frozen over. The Tufted Duck has been recorded on one or two occasions off Polkerris as a result of displacement by severe weather. Single Goosander have been reported from Par Harbour and in flight over Par Bay. As it occurs occasionally on Par Beach Pool it could conceivably also be found in the Bay. Cormorant and Shag: The Cormorant does not breed in St Austell Bay but is noted year - round and in winter is very common frequenting Par Beach Pool and waters close inshore. It is also seen flying inland and occasionally observed over St Austell town. Further offshore it intermixes freely with Shags. The Shag is a resident of the Bay, nesting at one or two cliff colonies. It occurs in considerable numbers in every month of the year. Peak counts are made later in spring when young birds have left their nests and at such times one hundred or more birds may be present, making it the commonest diving bird in the Bay, apart from Common Scoter in some winters.

Razorbill and Guillemot: Neither of these species breeds in the vicinity of the Bay and they are essentially winter visitors. Observations have shown that the Razorbill outnumbers Guillemot by at least 10:1 with average mid-winter populations of forty and four respectively. Both species sit low in the water and being superb divers are often overlooked. Furthermore they are not confined to inshore situations, but dive in deep water sometimes for long periods. They are noted in all parts of the Bay. Black Guillemot, Little Auk and Puffin: None of these can be expected in the Bay during the winter, yet each has been noted once during the period and others have probably been overlooked, each being small and elusive. Although probably not annual on the water Puffin and Little Auk almost certainly are as migrants flying past. The Black Guillemot has been seen once close inshore and once flying past. Conclusion and comment: this survey is considered to be fairly comprehensive in respect of those species which dive from the surface of the water. The only other diving species likely to be encountered in winter are two aerial divers, Gannet - which is common and Sandwich Tern which is rare at this season. Compared to the other bays of south, central Cornwall known to the author, St Austell Bay is almost certainly the best for diversity of species. Other localities to the west appear to attract fewer species but greater numbers (ie: Veryan Bay; Black - throated Diver and Red-necked Grebe, Gerrans Bay; Black - throated Diver and Slavonian Grebe, and Carrick Roads; Great Crested and Black - necked Grebes, sea-duck, Goldeneye and Red-breasted Merganser). The reason for this diversity is probably related to its geographical position with the excellent sheltering headlands at its eastern and western extremities, which also probably act as migratory 'funnels'. Combined with this the flat sandy bottom interspersed with rocky weed-covered reefs, along with a virtually frost-free coastline, all add up to make the Bay one of the most attractive to diving birds in the southwest. Viewing points are extremely important and in this respect the Bay is easily accessible, even by car.

162 Premier viewing conditions are connected with light northerly - biased winds and preferably light cloud cover resulting in a 'flat' light on a calm sea. Even a lightly rippled water surface can halve the number of birds seen, especially the smaller species. The exception to this optimum are Porthpean which is sheltered in westerly winds and to a lesser extent Polkerris in easterly winds (though diversity will be reduced). Conveniently, the tourist season does not yet impinge into the winter but 'summer' winter sports such as water - ski - ing and wind-surfing are a different matter. These two activities in particular cause undue disturbance to feeding and roosting birds. Commercial shipping using Par and Charlestown docks pose little threat, nor does the limited sea-fishing practised in the Bay, although any attempt to introduce nylon gill-nets could prove disastrous. Recent tests indicating a significant increase in water pollution may suggest a long-term detrimental effect. Overall it appears that the Bay is unlikely to become more attractive to birds in the future, threatened as it is by so many different pressures. It will be fascinating to see if the diversity and numbers of birds can be sustained in future decades.

Thanks to Stanley Christophers for useful comment and assistance with the first draft of this article. Roger Lane

RINGING REPORT - 1989/1900 1808 birds of 49 species were reported as ringed in Cornwall in 1989 and another 1548 of 43 species were reported in 1990. Unfortunately, the number of active ringers continues to decrease. Sadly, R.J. Salmon (Bob) has surrendered his Ringing Licence after more than twenty years of active service, which included a detailed ringing survey of a Chaffinch roost at Lanivet which resulted in an important paper on the subject by D.F. Musson which appeared in the 1968 Cornwall Bird Report. More recently, Bob has provided invaluable assistance in the preparation of the Ringing Report itself for 'Birds in Cornwall'.

Contributors

S.M. Christophers 1400 birds at Par and St Columb. F.M. Couch 431 birds at Bodmin and Truro. N. B. Exelby 106 birds at Mullion. G. G. Gynn 781 birds at Boswednack and Treveal. F.H.C. Kendall 9 birds in Bude area. B. Pattenden 629 birds at Marazion. Recoveries, controls and ring sightings. Cormorant Ring no. L 05467 ringed as a nestling at Pufin Island, Anglesey, N. Wales on 24th June 1989 was found long dead between Brown Willy and Bolventor on 13th May 1990. Sparrowhawk Ring no. E 764356 ringed as a juvenile male at Par on 4th September 1987 was found dead at Trago Mills, near Liskeard 2nd February 1989. Mediterranean Gull Ring no. Arnhem 3.449.476 ringed as a nestling at Moerdijk Kolomie, 2 - N - 163 Brabant, Netherlands on 11th June 1990 and fitted with a white Darvic ring (number 42A) was sighted at Loe Pool on 25th September 1990. Great Black-backed Gull Ring no. HW 36656 ringed as a nestling at Mullion Island on 15th June 1975 was found dead at Newlyn 13th July 1989.

Barn Owl Ring no. GH 33396 ringed as a nestling at Bedruthan Steps on 10th July 1989 was the subject of cannibalism by its own species: ring found in pellet near Watergate Bay 17th March 1990. Sand Martin Ring no. F 589599 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 12th September 1990 was controlled at Icklesham, Sussex on 26th September 1990. Swallow Ring no. E 764356 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 4th September 1988 was found dead 30km west of M'Sila, Constantine, Algeria on 4th May 1989. Reed Warbler Ring no. C 952897 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 24th August 1986 was controlled at South Milton Ley, South Devon on 6th May and 23rd August 1990.

Goldcrest A first year male ringed at Treveal on 24th October 1989 was controlled at Hartland Point, North Devon on 28th March 1990.

Chaffinch A male ringed as an adult at Korpermala, Alem, Kalmar, Sweden on 23rd July 1989 wass found dead in a garden at Camborne on 27th December 1989. Greenfinch Ring no. VC 95346 ringed as an adult male at St Columb Major on 11th February 1988 was found dead at St Kew Highway on 13th April 1989. Ring no. VC 95397 ringed as a second year female at St Columb Major on 7th February 1988 was controlled at Millwater, Crewkerne, Somerset on 2nd April 1989. Ring no. VC 95442 ringed as a second year male at St Columb Major on 11th February 1988 was killed by a cat at Bath, Avon on 10th January 1991. Ring no. VE 74613 ringed as a second year male at St Columb Major on 16th February 1989 was controlled at Ware, Hertfordshire on 21st April 1989.

164 Cumulative totals

1989/90 1979-1990 F.G. Pulli Total F.G. Pulli Total Fulmar _ _ _ 3 _ 3 Manx Shearwater 2 _ 2 Storm Petrel - 3 3 Gannet - - - 2 - 2 Mute Swan - - - 66 - 66 Shelduck - - - 8 -_ 8 Mallard - - - 1 _ 1 Common Scoter - 1 1 Sparrowhawk -1 - -1 15 2- 17 Buzzard - 21 21 Kestrel - - - -1 24 25 Water Rail -1 - 1 18 _ 18 Spotted Crake - 4 4 Oystercatcher - - - 409 6- 415 Ringed Plover - - - 203 203 Lapwing - - - 24 -3 27 Knot - - - 4 4 Sander ling - - - 22 - 22 Curlew Sandpiper - - - 1 - 1 Dunlin - - - 993 - 993 Jack Snipe - - - 1 - 1 Snipe - - - 11 - 11 Woodcock - - - 1 - 1 Black-tailed Godwit - - - 1 _- 1 Bar-tailed Godwit - - - 1 1 Whimbrel - - - 5 - 5 Curlew - - - 73 -_ 73 Spotted Redshank - - - 7 7 Redshank - - - 297 - 297 Greenshank - - - 48 - 48 Turnstone - - - 45 -_ 45 Black-headed Gull - - - 17 _ 17 Herring Gull -1 - 1 14 14 Guillemot - 24 - 24 Razorbill - - - 1 _- 1 Little Auk - - 1 1 Stock Dove - - -_ 4- 4 Woodpigeon -1 - 1 6- 10 16 Collared Dove - 11 4 15 Cuckoo -1 -1 2- 2 3 5 Barn Owl 20 20 21 164 185 Little Owl - 1 2 3 Tawny Owl - 7- 7- 13 26 39 Short-eared Owl - 1 1 Long-eared Owl - - - 1 - 1 Swift - - - 4 - 4 Kingfisher -1 - -1 9 - 9 Green Woodpecker - 3 - 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker - - - 4 - 4 Skylark - - - -6 6 Sand Martin -8 - -8 5-2 52 Swallow 224 31- 255 4143 519- 4662 House Martin 1 - 1 37 25 62 Tree Pipit - - - 7 7 14 Meadow Pipit 3 - 3 39 15 54 165 Water Pipit - _ 1 _ 1 Rock Pipit - - _ 5 5 Yellow Wagtail - - - 39 - 39 Grey Wagtail 3 - 20 47 67 Pied Wagtail -1 5 6 167 54 221 Dipper 2 65 67 71 302 373 Wren 101 101 998 24 1022 Dunnock 80 - 80 810 15 825 Robin 70 _- 70 1064 62 1126 Bluethroat - _ 1 _ 1 Black Redstart _ _ _ 2 _ 2 Redstart 3 _ 3 12 15 27 Whinchat - _ _ 11 11 Stonechat _ _ 43 10 53 Northern Wheatear _ _ 322 306 628 Blackbird 56 _ 56 816 104 920 Fieldfare _ _ _ 4 _ 4 Song Thrush 28 - 28 275 30 305 Redwing 1 - 1 121 _ 121 Mistle Thrush - _ 5 9 14 Cetti's Warbler 16 _ 16 81 _ 81 Grasshopper Warbler _ _ _ 28 _ 28 Aquatic Warbler 5 - 5 23 - 23 Sedge Warbler 213 - 213 2811 2811 Marsh Warbler _ _ _ 1 _ 1 Reed Warbler 217 _ 217 2731 4 2''35 Icterine Warbler _ _ _ 1 _ 1 Melodious Warbler - _ _ 1 _ 1 Lesser Whitethroat - _ _ 13 _ 13 Whitethroat 37 _ 37 263 _ 263 Garden Warbler 6 _ 6 155 _ 155 Blackcap 93 _ 93 583 _ 583 Yellow-browed Warbler _ _ 2 _ 2 Chiffchaff 98- _ 98 889 8 897 Pallas's Warbler _ _ _ 1 _ 1 Willow Warbler 27 - 27 1550 108 1658 Goldcrest 176 _ 176 847 847 Firecrest 8 - 8 61 _ 61 Spotted Flycatcher 2 5 7 33 65 98 Pied Flycatcher 3 60 63 24 333 357 Long-tailed Tit 82 _ 82 603 1 604 Marsh Tit 2 8 10 123 47 170 Willow Tit - - _ 121 _ 121 Coal Tit 18 - 18 161 38 199 Blue Tit 314 161 475 4412 2183 6595 Great Tit 68 37 105 1099 395 1494 Nuthatch _ 13 13 17 62 79 Treecreeper 89 6 95 Jay - - - 9 _ 9 Magpie 2- - 2- 16 32 48 Jackdaw 1 -_ 1 33 12 45 Rook _ _ _ 12 _ 12 Carrion Crow 1 - 1 4 25 29 Starling 105 - 105 1289 _ 1289 House Sparrow 52 - 52 420 1 421 Red-eyed Vireo - _ 1 _ 1 Chaffinch 91 _ 91 1294 32 1326 Brambling - - - 30 _ 30 Greenfinch 652 - 652 2349 32 2381 Goldfinch 12 - 12 81 12 93 166 Siskin - - 50 - 50 Linnet 8 8 173 18 191 Redpoll - 5 5 Bullfinch 44 - 44 494 -3 497 Yellowhammer - - 76 7 83 Cirl Bunting - - 3 3 Reed Bunting 21 21 389- 4 393 Corn Bunting - - 1 21 22 2937 419 3356 34584 4782 39366

CHECK LIST OF THE BIRDS OF CORNWALL AND THE ISLES OF SCILLY.

Red-throated Diver Snow Goose (C) Black-throated Diver Canada Goose Great Northern Diver Barnacle Goose White-billed Diver (C) Brent Goose Little Grebe Egyptian Goose (C) Great Crested Grebe Ruddy Shelduck Red-necked Grebe Shelduck Slavonian Grebe American Wood Duck (C) Black-necked Grebe Mandarin (C) Black-browed Albatross Wigeon Northern Fulmar American Wigeon Soft-plumaged Petrel (C) Gadwall Cory's Shearwater Teal Great Shearwater Mallard Sooty Shearwater American Black Duck Manx Shearwater Pintail Balearic/Yelkouan Shearwater Garganey Little Shearwater Blue-winged Teal Wilson's Petrel (C) Shoveler British Storm Petrel Red-crested Pochard Leach's Petrel Pochard Northern Gannet Ring-necked Duck Cormorant Ferruginous Duck Shag Tufted Duck White Pelican (C) Scaup Bittern Eider American Bittern King Eider (C) Little Bittern Long-tailed Duck Night Heron Common Scoter I Green-backed Heron (C) Surf Scoter Squacco Heron Velvet Scoter Cattle Egret (C) Bufflehead (S) Little Egret Goldeneye Great White Egret (C) Smew Grey Heron Red-breasted Merganser Purple Heron Goosander Black Stork Ruddy Duck White Stork Honey Buzzard Glossy Ibis Black Kite Spoonbill Red Kite Mute Swan White-tailed Eagle Bewick's Swan Marsh Harrier Whooper Swan Hen Harrier Bean Goose Montagu's Harrier Pink-fronted Goose Goshawk Greylag Goose Sparrowhawk 167 Buzzard White-rumped Sandpiper Rough-legged Buzzard Baird's Sandpiper Spotted Eagle (C) Pectoral Sandpiper Golden Eagle (C) Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (S) Osprey Curlew Sandpiper Lessser Kestrel Purple Sandpiper Kestrel Dunlin American Kestrel (C) Broad-billed Sandpiper (C) Red-footed Falcon Buff-breasted Sandpiper Merlin Ruff Hobby Jack Snipe Saker (C) Snipe Gyr falcon Great Snipe Peregrine Long-billed Dowitcher Red Grouse (C) Woodcock Black Grouse (C) Black-tailed Godwit Chukar (C) Bar-tailed Godwit Red-legged Partridge (C) Eskimo Curlew (S) Grey Partridge Whimbrel Quail Curlew Pheasant Upland Sandpiper Golden Pheasant Spotted Redshank Lady Amherst's Pheasant (C) Redshank Northern Bobwhite (S) Greenshank Water Rail Greater Yellowlegs Spotted Crake Lesser Yellowlegs Sora Solitary Sandpiper Little Crake Green Sandpiper Baillon's Crake (C) Wood Sandpiper Corncrake Terek Sandpiper (C) Moorhen Common Sandpiper American Purple Gallinule (S) Spotted Sandpiper Coot Turnstone Crane Wilson's Phalarope Little Bustard Red-necked Phalarope Great Bustard (C) Grey Phalarope Oystercatcher Pomarine Skua Black-winged Stilt Arctic Skua Avocet Long-tailed Skua Stone-curlew Great Skua Cream-coloured Courser (C) Mediterranean Gull Collared Pratincole Laughing Gull Little Ringed Plover Franklin's Gull (C) Ringed Plover Little Gull Semipalmated Plover (S) Sabine's Gull Killdeer Bonaparte's Gull Kentish Plover Black-headed Gull Caspian Plover (S) Ring-billed Gull Dotterel Common Gull American Golden Plover Lesser Black-backed Gull Golden Plover Herring Gull Grey Plover Iceland Gull Sociable Plover (C) Glaucous Gull Lapwing Great Black-backed Gull Knot Ross's Gull (C) Sanderling Kittiwake Semipalmated Sandpiper Ivory Gull Western Sandpiper (S) Gull-billed Tern Little Stint Caspian Tern (S) Temminck's Stint Royal Tern (C) Least Sandpiper Sandwich Tern 168 Roseate Tern Crag Martin (C) Common Tern Swallow Arctic Tern Red-rumped Swallow Forsters Tern Tree Swallow (S) Bridled Tern (C) Cliff Swallow (S) Sooty Tern (Q House Martin Little Tern Richard's Pipit Whiskered Tern Tawny Pipit Black Tern Olive-backed Pipit (S) White-winged Black Tern Tree Pipit Guillemot Pechora Pipit (C) Razorbill Meadow Pipit Black Guillemot Red-throated Pipit Little Auk Rock Pipit Puffin Water Pipit Pallas's Sandgrouse American Pipit (S) Feral Rock Dove Yellow Wagtail Stock Dove Citrine Wagtail Woodpigeon Grey Wagtail Collared Dove Pied Wagtail Turtle Dove Waxwing Rufous Turtle Dove Dipper (C) Ring-necked Parakeet Wren Great Spotted Cuckoo Northern Mockingbird (C) Cuckoo Dunnock Black-billed Cuckoo Alpine Accentor Yellow-billed Cuckoo Rufous Bush Robin (S) Barn Owl Robin Scops Owl Thrush Nightingale (S) Snowy Owl Nightingale Hawk Owl (Q Bluethroat Little Owl Black Redstart Tawny Owl Redstart Long-eared Owl Whinchat Short-eared Owl Stonechat Nightjar Isabelline Wheatear (S) Common Nighthawk (S) Northern Wheatear Chimney Swift Black-eared Wheatear Swift Desert Wheatear Alpine Swift Rock Thrush Little Swift (Q White's Thrush Kingfisher Varied Thrush (Q Belted Kingfisher (Q Wood Thrush (S) Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Hermit Thrush (S) Bee-eater Swainson's Thrush Roller Gray-cheeked Thrush Hoopoe Veery (Q Wryneck Ring Ouzel Green Woodpecker Blackbird Black Woodpecker (C) Eye-browed Thrush (S) Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (S) Dusky Thrush (C) Great Spotted Woodpecker Black-throated Thrush (S) Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (Q Fieldfare Calandra Lark (S) Song Thrush Bimaculated Lark (S) Redwing Short-toed Lark Mistle Thrush Crested Lark (Q American Robin (S) Woodlark Cetti's Warbler Skylark Grasshopper Warbler Shore Lark Savi's Warbler (Q Sand Martin Aquatic Warbler 169 Sedge Warbler Jackdaw Paddyfield Warbler (S) Rook Marsh Warbler Carrion Crow Reed Warbler Raven Great Reed Warbler Starling Olivaceous Warbler Rose-coloured Starling Booted Warbler House Sparrow Icterine Warbler Spanish Sparrow (S) Melodious Warbler Tree Sparrow Dartford Warbler Philadelphia Vireo (S) Subalpine Warbler Red-eyed Vireo Sardinian Warbler Yellow-throated Vireo (C) Orphean Warbler Chaffinch Barred Warbler Brambling Lesser Whitethroat Serin Whitethroat Greenfinch Garden Warbler Goldfinch Blackcap Siskin Green Warbler (S) Linnet Greenish Warbler Twite Arctic Warbler Redpoll Pallas's Warbler Arctic Redpoll (S) Yellow-browed Warbler Two-barred Crossbill (C) Radde's Warbler Crossbill Dusky Warbler Scarlet Rosefinch Bonelli's Warbler Bullfinch Wood Warbler Hawfinch Chiffchaff Black-and-white Warbler Willow Warbler Northern Parula Goldcrest Magnolia Warbler (S) Firecrest Yellow-rumped Warbler (S) Spotted Flycatcher Blackpoll Warbler Red-breasted Flycatcher American Redstart (C) Collared Flycatcher (S) Northern Waterthrush (S) Pied Flycatcher Common Yellowthroat (S) Bearded Tit Hooded Warbler (S) Long-tailed Tit Wilson's Warbler (C) Marsh Tit Scarlet Tanager Willow Tit (C) Dark-eyed Junco (C) Crested Tit (S) Lapland Bunting Coal Tit Snow Bunting Blue Tit Pine Bunting (S) Great Tit Yellowhammer Nuthatch (C) Cirl Bunting Treecreeper Ortolan Bunting Penduline Tit Rustic Bunting Golden Oriole Little Bunting Isabelline Shrike Yellow-breasted Bunting Red-backed Shrike Reed Bunting Lesser Grey Shrike Red-headed Bunting Great Grey Shrike Black-headed Bunting Woodchat Shrike Corn Bunting Jay Rose-breasted Grosbeak (S) Magpie Painted Bunting (S) Nutcracker Bobolink (S) Chough Northern Oriole

Notes: a) This checklist incorporates a few records not accepted by (or in some cases not

170 even submitted to) the Rarities Committee. They are included in the County List because the County Recorder at the time considered the identification to be correct. b) Black Woodpecker is included on the strength of a 1945 record which is generally considered authentic, although it should be noted that the species is not yet officially admitted to the British List. c) Soft-plumaged Petrel, Northern Mockingbird, Wood Thrush and Yellow- throated Vireo have all been accepted by B.B.R.C. and await categorisation by B.O.U.R.C. (Two-barred Greenish Warbler is in a similar situation, but there are doubts to its claims to full species status and it is therefore excluded). d) Other potential additions which remain under consideration by B.B.R.C. include Madeiran Petrel, Double-crested Cormorant, South Polar Skua, Blyth's Pipit, Gray Catbird and Lazuli Bunting. e) Spectacled Warbler has now been deleted from the British and Cornish Lists.

Summary: The County List stands at 449. Of these, 408 have been recorded on the mainland and 396 on the Isles of Scilly. Stanley Christophers.

171 THE SOCIETY'S RULES (Current from 14th April, 1984)

Rule l.(Name) The Society shall be called The Cornwall Bird-Watching and Preservation Society'.

Rule 2. (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be :- (a) To further the study of birds in the field. (b) To assist in their preservation.

Rule 3. (Membership) The Society shall consist of the following Honorary Officers; President, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Meetings Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor, Public Relations Officers, Solicitor, County Recorder and Editor, Assistant Editor, Officer for Youth and Education, General Secretary for the Isles of Scilly and two joint Recorders and Editors for the Isles of Scilly, who shall be fully paid up members of the Society Any persons under the age of 18 years shall be eligible for Junior Membership, and any person who has attained his or her 18th birthday for Full Membership. Junior members shall be entitled to participate in the activities of the Society but shall be ineligible for election to the Executive Committee or Officers of the Society. Life Members may be elected on a single payment of £75.00. With a view to recognition of useful service to the aims of the Society, a General Meeting may, upon the proposition and seconding by any members, elect any person to be a Honorary Member of the Society without regard to the actual membership or non- membership of such person, who is deemed worthy of such election. Any Honorary Member so elected shall enjoy the right of Full Membership without payment of any subscription being required. The Officers shall be elected annually at the first General Meeting of the year (which Meeting shall be named the Annual Meeting) and shall be eligible for re­ election. New Members may be elected at any General or Executive Committee meeting provided they have paid the subscription as required under Rule 4. The Executive Committee shall have authority to exclude or cancel membership to any person if it considers that person to have contravened any requirements contained in these Rules or legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or any other matter which the Executive Committee consider offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4. (Subscription) The Subscription shall be £5 for Full Members: £2.50 for each additional member of the same family sharing the same literature: and £1 for Junior Members, payable on election and thereafter on the 1st January. But any member who pays the first subscription after 30th September in any year, shall not be liable to pay a Full Members subscription until after the close of the current year. A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications and when six months in arrears shall be deleted from the list of members.

Rule 5. (Management) The Secretaries shall keep minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature as will keep members informed of the Society's activities. The Treasurer shall present a Statement of Accounts at the Annual Meeting each year. There shall be an Executive Committee consisting of the Officers and nine ordinary members. A nomination in writing containing the name and address of the

172 member proposed for election to the Executive Committee together with the names and addresses of a proposer and seconder must have been received by a Secretary at least 10 days before the Annual Meeting. This Committee shall be elected annually at the Annual Meeting and shall deal with all business and any obligation undertaken by the Executive Committee on behalf of the Society shall be an obligation of the Society. The Executive Committee shall have power to add to this number subject to confirmation at the next Annual Meeting. No ordinary member shall serve on this Committee for more than three consecutive years. The Executive Committee shall delegate five Officers - Chairman, Vice Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer to be known as the Management Team - to be responsible for the day to day decisions on the Society's affairs. Those delegated should agree unanimously on their decisions and report to the next Executive Committee for confirmation of their actions.

Rule 6. (Meetings) General Meetings shall be held as often as necessary but not less than twice a year, one of which shall be the Annual Meeting. The Executive Committee shall meet when necessary for the transaction of routine business. All meetings shall be convened in consultation with the President and Chairman. A special general meeting may also be called at the request of the Executive Committee or any fifteen members by application to the General Secretary, such application to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

Rule 7. (Alteration of Rules) An alteration of Rules may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the precise alteration has been shown in advance on the Agenda, and that the alteration be passed by a two-thirds majority of those present.

Rule 8. This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the Members, at a General Meeting at which business is transacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamation or subordination, prior notice must have been given under Rule 7. For the purpose of the Rule, Members may vote by post.

Rule 9. The property and effects of the Society shall be vested in not less than four members as Trustees to be appointed at a General Meeting. They shall have power to invest money and adopt such measures as may appear to them necessary in the interests of the Society, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee. Each Trustee shall remain in office until death, registration or removal and replacement by a General Meeting. In the event of the death, resignation or removal by any of the Trustees, the Executive Committee shall if necessary fill the vacancy subject to the confirmation at the next General Meeting.

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