Herefordshire Ornitholog·cal Club

o 1973

Together wit/, Classified Note for Herefordshire and Radnor hire

No. 3 Vol. 3 Price 22Jp HERON FISHING HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

No. 3. Vol. 3

OFFICERS AND COMMITIEE, 1973

President: - DR. C. W. WALKER, M.C.

Vice-Presidents: - BRIGADIER SIR MICHAEL VENABLES-LLEWELYN, BART., M.V.O. P. W. HINDE, M.B.O.U. R. H. BAILLIE

Chairman: ­ T. R. AMMONDS

Hon. Treasurer:­ B. C. ALLAN

Hon. Editor:- T. R. H. OWEN, C.B.E.

Hon. Secretary:­ MRS. J. BROMLEY

Recorder: ­ A. J. SMITH

Committee: - O. S. BENNETI W. H. MEADHAM MRS. J. Fox A. MOUNTFORD A. G. FYSHE MISS M. A. RIGBY P. GARDNER J. H. WATKINS K. A. MAsoN HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL CLUB RULES

1. NAME. The Club shall be called the Herefordshire Ornithological Club. 2. OBJECTS. The objects of the Club shall be (a) to further the study of birds in the field, and (b) to assist in their preservation. 3. MBMBERSHIP. The Club shall consist of a President, a Chairman, a Secretary, a Field Secretary, a Treasurer, an Editor, a Recorder, and Ten Committee Members and Ordinary Members. The President and the Chairman to retire after serving a term of three years. The Secretaries, the Treasurer, the Recorder and the Editor shall be elected annually. The three senior of the ten Ordinary Members of the Com­ mittee shall retire annually and they shall not be eligible for re-election for a period of 12 months. The Officers and Ordinary Members of the Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and the Officers shall be eligible for re-election. Nominations for the Commit­ tee must be received in writing by the Hon. Secretary by March 31st. 4. CONDmONS OF MEMBERSHIP. Members shall be required to support and keep the provisions of the Protection of Birds Act, 1954. Any members failing to support and keep this law shall be required to resign. Members may not divulge to unauthorised persons (e.g. known collectors of skins and/or eggs) information in a manner likely to be detrimental to the objects of the Club. 5. SUBSCRIPTIONS. (a) Ordinary Members: 18 years of age or over 75 pence, payable on January 1st or on election to membership. Any additional members of a household after the first, 50 pence; such members receiving all privileges of full membership. Junior Members (under 18 but over 12 years of age), 37 pence per annum, payable as above. Corporate Members: Kindred bodies, Schools, etc.: Subscription one pound and 5 pence per annum. Honorary Members: As approved by the majority present at the Annual General Meeting. (b) All subscriptions subsequent to those paid on admission, shall be due on Jan. 1st each year. Where a member has been elected on or after 1st September in any year, there will be no further liability to subscribe in the year immediately following that of his or her election. Any Member whose subscription is six months in arrears shall cease to receive the Club's publications and, should the subscription not be paid by December 31st, his or her name shall be deleted from the list of Members. 6. MANAGEMENT. The Secretary shalt keep Minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature as shall keep Members informed of the Club's activities. 7. MEETINGS shall be held as often as deemed desirable at the discretion of the Officers. 8. REPORT. There shall be an Editorial Committee of at least three Members including the Secretary, appointed at an ordinary Committee Meeting. These shall prepare and present an Annual Report and such special reports as may be decided upon. 9. ALTERATION OF RULES. An alteration of the Rules may be made only if proposed at one meeting, printed on the agenda for the following meeting, and passed by a two-thirds majority of those present. R. H. BAILlIE HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 115

EDITORIAL NOTE

The photograph facing this page is of Mr. R. H. Baillie, whose retirement from the Secretaryship and Committee leaves one of those gaps which can never be quite filled. Bob Baillie has been a dedicated bird-watcher from boyhood; had oriental experience for years in Burma; was a founder-member of the Club in 1951; was Editor from the word "go" until a few years ago, and became Secretary in 1958­ until 1972. But that is a mere catalogue, and it is his personality that will be missed, his scrupulous accuracy and professional judgement, his humour and his knowledgeable willingness to help any less expert or less experienced member. Fortunately he remains as one of our Vice­ presidents, and the Club will always owe him a deep debt and wishes him all good fortune and complete recovery of health.

Climatically the main feature of 1973 was drought. Much of Herefordshire, with an average rainfall of about 29 inches, recorded only some 17. Winter was again easy, with the result that non- migrants have in many cases done well~Long-tailed-tits,Goldcrest, Green Wood­ pecker (despite elm disease), Grey Wagtail; and the predators seem to have fared moderately. Some of the migrants however are less flour­ ishing-Whitethroat still down, Redstart, Sedge Warbler and Yellow Wagtail receding; Sand Martin at lowest level. Yet Warblers such as Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and Blackcap keep up their numbers. How account for it? Different routes of migration, with different hazards from Mediterranean man's predation and the vagaries of wea,ther? Drought south of the Sahara and loss of usual winter habitat? It remains mysterious and any evidence or theories are welcome.

There are no first records in 1973, but a number of scarce species seen-Spotted Redshank, Hobby, Red-backed Shrike, Harrier, Black Redstart and Hawfinch. There is no Woodlark resurgence, but Night­ jar is still on the map, Comcrake heard, and our little colony of Corn Buntings holds on.

PUBLICATIONS. Copies ·of "Herefordshire Birds" (1954) by Captain H. A. Gilbert and Dr. C. W. Walker; "Birds of Radnorshire" (1955) by G. C. S. Ingram and Colonel Morrey Salmon; and the majority of the Club's annual reports may be obtained from the Secre­ tary at 25 pence a copy, which includes postage.

The FINANCIAL POSITION of the Club remains sound and a summary is included at the end of this Report. For the first time the Club's numbers have just topped 500. 116 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

FIELD MEETINGS were held at Bredwardine (twice); Wigmore (twice); Bircher and Croft; Leach Pool, CIifIord; Haugh Wood (four); Kingsland; Dinmore; Westhope; Checkley; Holme Lacy School of Agriculture; HindweH (twice); Beulah; MoeIienydd; FeIindre; Bwch-y­ Sarnau; Ynys Hir Reserve; and visits were also organized to Skomer Island; to the Severn Estuary; and to the Gower Coast.

INDOOR MEETINGS, in addition to the Annual General Meet­ ing, included a Members' Meeting; a "Question Time"; Birds of St. Kilda, by Charles Chessire; Countryside Sounds, bV Ray Goodwin; Conservation, by John Workman; and R.S.P.B. Reserve, Ynys Hir, by W. M. Condry.

Wildfowl Trust films were also shown at The Town Hall on Oct. 10th, and R.S.P.B. films on Nov. 14th.

Our THANKS are due to all Members whose records make poss­ ible this Report; to all leaders of Club Outings and providers of indoor entertainment, and to the Editorial Committee who do the exacting job of 'vetting' the Report itself, Dr. C. W. Walker, Mr. P. W. Hinde, M.B.O.V., Mr. A. J. Smith and our Secretary, Mrs. J. M. Bromley.

Our thanks (and admiration) also go to Mr. H. McSweeney for the fine Heron study which forms the frontispiece to this number, and to Mr. F. D. Blackburn for his excellent RedpoH picture.

T. R. H. OWEN. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 117

RINGING REPORT. 1973 Three Herefordshire Ringers-Mrs. S. H. Robbins, Mr. O. C. Cundale and Dr. D. O. Boddington-have got nest-box notes at various sites, each site being a part of the Nest-box Scheme referred to else­ where in the Report. Four of these are primarily Pied Flycatcher study areas, and hold 117 boxes; and three, with 44 boxes, are in areas where trapping is carried out all the year, with Tit population under study. (Pull-Nestling; M-Male; F-Female; B-Breeding)

PIED FLYCATCHER

JA47666 Pull Ringed 5.6.71 at Kington (IS Km. N.B.). M.B. Recovered 1.6.73 Aymestrey (SHR). HJ91713 F. B. 14.6.68 Ledbury (38 Km. N.W.). B. 30.5.73 Shobdon (DOB) (See 1972 Report p.62). JA47723 Pull 6.6.71 Yazor (8 Km. W.S.W.). M.B. 8.6.73 Moccas (DGB). JKI4467 Pull 17.6.72 Wyre Forest, Wores. (22 Km. S.S.W.). F.B. 22.5.73 Bromyard (DOB). HX30295 F. B. 29.5.70 Moccas. B. 26.5.73 (DOB). HX30291 F. B. 29.5.70 B. 26.5.73 (DOB). JA44780 Pull 11.6.71 F.B. 30.5.73 " (DOB). (Also bred 1972). JA44990 F. B. 31.5.72 B. 30.5.73 (DOB). The previous longest period between ringing and retrap at a Herefordshire site was HK05759 F. B. 21.5.69 at Shobdon. B. 17.5.71 (DOB). But this has now been exceeded by HJ91713 which, being 6 years old, is possibly the oldest recorded Pied Flycatcher in the United Kingdom. D. O. Boddington. 118 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

The only other ringing records received are­ MALLARD GP05698 Juv. 30.5.71 Weston under Lizard, Staffs. 6.10.72 Oaker Wood, Kingsland (DGB). (58 Km. SW.). BLACK·HEADED GULL 3050422 Llanwefr pool 20.6.61, found dead near MalIwyd, Montgomery, 31.5.73. 3088943 Pen-y-Clawd 20.6.71 " Hundred House, 18.3.73. (P. J. Chadwick). BLACKBIRD-a dead male at Brilley, March 28th, 1973, ringed 31.3.72 at Ronnskar, Finland (59 0 56' N. and 24 0 24' E.). (JB).

THE WOODLAND NEST-BOX SCHEME, 1973 The Nature Trust, greatly aided by members of the Ornithological Club, still has over 1,000 nest-boxes in woodlands in the Club area. In this, the eleventh year of the scheme, 942 boxes were effectively recorded; 515 of these boxes were occupied. There were 230 Blue Tit nests, 138 Great Tits, 99 Pied Flycatchers, 12 Marsh Tits, 7 Coal Tits, 6 Redstarts, and 6 other species, plus the usual Dormouse at Great Doward, on one of the Nature Trust's reserves. Although the number of boxes on Pied Flycatcher sites remains fairly constant, nest numbers continue to fall, and 99 nests of this species was a disappointing result. The nest numbers for the last six years were-l78, 145, 104, 133, 123, 99. Mrs. John and Mr. Kiddle each had 12 Flycatchers' nests, followed by Mr. Gardner and Mr. Jim Watkins with 9 each. All four sites are more northerly than Hereford city. As usual predation by mice was severe on a few sites. Mr. Kiddle, reporting from the Tillington area, states that not one young bird fledged from 11 Blue Tits' nests, and only 22 chicks flew from 12 Fly­ catcher nests. But we think that we have found the solution to mouse predation; it is to extinguish the smell of the birds by the use of creosote on the outside of the boxes. Mr. Meadham had 100% predation in 1971, but for the last two years has creosoted the outside of the boxes at the start of the season: result-no predation. It is possibly not necessary to creosote the whole of the outside of the box; the same result can probably be achieved by following the method of Mrs. P. M. Wilson at Brilley. She writes "All boxes given one treatment with creosote to edges, and underneath, early in April before occupation". She experienced no predation. ~ " o'" " HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 119

Mr. Addis, in south Herefordshire, found a cock Pied Flycatcher dead on the nest five days after seven young had hatched. The hen bird succeeded in rearing four of the seven youngsters. Dr. Bodding­ ton has again had a male Pied Flycatcher with two wives, and 13 of the 14 young in the two nests fledged. Female Pied Flycatchers seem to be very efficient! We must thank the 41 people who work in this scheme, and trust that they will continue in the coming season, and thank also the owners of land who kindly make the project possible. J. L. Fox.

SURVEY OF ALL BLACKHEADED GULL (Lams ridibundus) COLONIFS IN ENGLA.l~n AND WALES, 1973 Previous surveys were organised throughout the two countries in 1938 and 1958. The latter year showed a 25% increase in number over the former. The results as they affected Radnorshire are shown in Table 1. to km. Map Altitudo No. Locality S.\uare Ref. Habitat in feet Birds Rhosgoch Common SOl 4 195485 Boggy Moorland 850 40 Llan Bwch Lyn Lake S014 119464 Marshy Area 1050 Uanwerfa Pool S015 139594 Moorland Pool 1050 150 St. Michael's Pool S016 186698

10 km. Map A1t. in No. No. Locality Squaro Ref. Habitat feet Birds Ne.1s Llandrindod Wells Bog s005 059598 Mal'S'h Area 700 21-29 6-10 Rhulen Mawn P

Six out of the eight colonies recorded during the 1938/58 surveys were found to be extinct. An idea as to why this is so is shown in Table III. Locality Reason(?) for Extinction Rhosgoch Common ... Probable human predation, the colony being easily visible from the road, coupled with a change in habitat. The water -receded and the grass which took its place was unsuitable. Llan-bwch-Llyn Lake Human interference by fishing and the occasional boat. Farmland now down to the water's edge on one side of the lake. Pen-y-elawd Pool Human interference, fishing and boat­ ing, and reclamation of land for farming causing change of habitat. Rhiw Pool Reclamation of land brings pasture to the water's edge and destroys the habitat. Disturbance also possible from forestry work alongside. 5t. Michael's Pool Dried up. Pool near Bleddfa Dried up. TABLE III The altitude at which the Blackheaded Gull breeds in Radnorshire is generally between 1,050 and 1,450 feet, with the exception of Llan­ drindod Wells bog at 700 ft., Pool Hill at 1,600 ft. and Cerrig Llwydian lsaf at 1,650 ft. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 121

Cerrig Llwydian Isaf, although being at 1,650 ft. and therefore that much colder, has the advantage of being well sheltered by Blaen Rhestr, PantIIwyd and Bryn Garw, all over 1,720 ft. It also has plenty of rush cover at the west end which enjoys the most protection.

Cerrig Llwydian Dchef, about half a mile away, with better rush cover but exposed, is not colonised. In fact, during all the visits made there during the Atlas Project and this survey, no gulls were seen either on or over the lake.

Only three birds were seen at Pool Hill but no sign of breeding was found. Due to its altitude and exposed nature it is considered unlikely to be colonised.

There are many other localities in the county which could at some date become colonised. The main ones are listed in Table IV.

10 km. Map Alt.in Locality Square Ref. Habitat feet Remarks Black Rock Pool SOO5 083523 Mountain Pool 1350 Exposed-no cover Penwaum Pool 8005 080518 Mountain Pool 1300 Exposed-no cover Uyn Cawr s005 086505 Mountain Pool 1450 Good habitat but liable to dry out Uyn Dwr S006 046697 Mountain Lake 1525 Exposed but possible Uyn gwyn 8006 013649 Lake 800 Human interference Tyn-y-waun '" 8008 070831 Mountain Lake 1300 No cover Beilibedw Mawn Pool S015 163566 Mawn Pool 1350 Overgrown-unlikely Uyn-y-waun .. S015 150551 Mountain PO

Thanks are given to Mr. T. R. Ammonds who visited some of the localities in SOl5 and to Mr. J. L. Fox who gave valuable information on S017. R. O. B. GARNETT. 122 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

AT HOME WIm THE REDPOLLS (The firs,t known breeding record in Herefordshire since 1907-Ed.)

In May 1973 I decided to watch the habits of female Cuckoos on a large common, prompted by a recent study of Edgar Chance's fascinat­ ing book "The Truth About the Cuckoo". One day a female Cuckoo lured me into a conifer plantation half a mile away, and it was w:hiIe watching her observing a Tree Pipit's nest that I first heard the calls of Redpolls. This was interesting, because I understood there was no recent breeding record of RedpoIls in Herefordshire. It was now late in the afternoon, June 15th, so I continued to devote attention to the Cuckoo and Tree Pipit, but at the same time keeping a sharp ear for Redpoll calls. They were not heard again that day.

These plantations cover hundreds of acres, so the first problem was to find whether ,these birds were really resident. I spent most of the following day at the site, but it was early afternoon before I heard or saw any Redpolls-then just one pair. It took the rest of the day and most of the next to tie them down to a particular section of the planta­ tion. This was an area of some 15 acres, but at all times the birds were very elusive, and were soon lost to view after flying in. There was not much calling either. The site was in thick cover and diffioult to pene­ trate, consisting chiefly of young conifer, patches of bramble, gorse and five-foot bracken. I established two or three observation areas towards the centre of the site, but this was not so easy because it was essential to avoid damage and to keep the entrance to the tracks covered. Apart from the installation of two hides later, I always used these permanent little clearings for observation most of the 140 hours spent at the site. The area had one great advantage; there were a number of interspersed larch trees of varying heights, and it is a peculiarity of larch that the lower branches tend to die off, giving an unobstructed view at lower levels.

Further observation showed that this pair of RedpoHs were in process of building, but it was the activity of the male which indicated the presence of a nest. The female often approached from some dist­ ance, low down, and no doubt made her visits unseen. During the final stages of nest construction, a lining of down and feathers, the weather deteriorated and high winds and heavy rain set in for two days. Later it proved that this nest had been deserted, and it took some little time to ascertain that the same pair were building again. It is interesting to note that this second nest was begun and completed, by one bird only, in less than two days. With Redpolls, as with most of the finch family, the male takes no part in nest construction, neither does he assist with the incubation. REDPOLLS AT NE'iT I "n(l'Ollrltph h... F D. 8lackburnl HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 123

Until this time I had only seen one pair of Redpolls on this site, but thought there was a possibility that others were present, perhaps feeding young at this part of the season. I therefore decided to carry out a systematic search through the plantation, using my trained dog, Sally, as an assistant.,After about an hour of this procedure Sally raised the anxiety note of a female Redpoll. I concluded that she was attend­ ing to the needs of the young and had been disturbed in the process. My assumption turned out to be incorrect, because the nest was event­ ually found; it held three eggs and the female was incubating. Had it not been for my 'assistant' it is likely the female would have slipped off the nest unobtrusively, leaving its hiding-place undiscovered. In all the hours of observation I had only seen one pair of RedpolIs and yet, only 80 yards away, a second pair were breeding.

A full clutch of eggs was laid in nest No. I, three in the very short period of 13 hours. During incubation the female was often fed by the male actually on the nest This is known as Courtship Feeding. Every time the female expected a visit from her mate, she called in anticipation. These calls were often prolonged, and included a variety of notes. In spite of very variable weather conditions, sound record­ ings were made of the calls, and also, eventually, many other interesting sounds from the Redpoll vocabulary. Photography, both cine and still, was successful at both the nests, and during the 140 hours spent on the site much of their private life was observed. It was interesting to note that towards the end of the incubation period, 11 to 12 days at nest No. 1, and nearly 14 at the second nest, one egg in each nest was dis­ carded. Presumably this was the last one laid in eaoh case. It is also a fact that one of the nestlings in the first nest was ejected when about eight days old. The biological reasons for this behaviour give rise to speculation. The behavioral pattern of the birds during the incubation and fledging periods settled down to a more or less fixed routine, and the various notes taken during many hours in the hide resulted in the compilation of some very interesting data.

Shortly after the young hatched the parents became much more wary. Predators, including human beings, would usually be greeted by anxiety calls, and the final approach to the nest was delayed. On the other hand, during incubation I could peer at the female at nest from only a few feet away. She eyed me curiously, but seemed quite un,perturbed. Even on one occasion when I invited Sally to sit beside me her indifference still prevailed. This all goes to show, I suppose, that patience and perseverence are prime considerations when encroach­ ing on the domains of wild creatures.

v. C. LEWIS. 124 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

mSTORICAL NOTE ON THE ROOK IN SHOBDON PARISH Country people in the main regard the Rook as a bird to be tolerated (unlike the Carrion Crow). They recmmize that for the major part of the year the food taken by Rooks consists chiefly of insects and grubs injurious to agriculture. If on occasion they take recently planted grain, and at harvest time feed on any "laid" areas, this is accepted as of minor importance. Everybody enjoys the cawing of a busy rookery in spring, when the birds become semi-domestic, and I have never heard of anyone, at least in the country districts, disturbing them at this time.

Over the years the Rook population has fluctuated considerably, and it is significant that 50 or so years ago they were much more numerous than at present. Nowadays the population appears to be static at a much lower level. Modem farming practices and the use of chemicals seem to effect a control which a half century ago was main­ tained by organized Rook-shoots.

In the 1920's in the parish of Shobdon (all of which belonged to the Shobdon Court Estate) there were two rookeries, each of whioh contained from 200 to 400 nests. Every spring between the 10th and 15th of May the young birds would leave the nests and would be moving about on the boughs, when one evening they would be shot with guns or .22 rifles. These young Rooks would be collected and dispatched in hampers to Smithfleld. Probably 50% of the young were destroyed.

The rookeries were situated approximately two miles apart, and I could not understand why the young always appeared some two to three days earlier at the more northerly site, which was also at a 300 foot higher altitude.

On occasion some irate farmer even in those days would put down poisoned grain, which would reduce their numbers. Roup also would take its toll of young birds. Hence keepers never reared Pheasants near a rookery.

Rooks are generally faithful to a nesting site. In a large wood they move around quite a lot, and never build in a tree which shows signs of dying. Very rarely are nests sited closer together than 3 feet.

There were no large rookeries in Herefordshire to compare with the one with more than 6,000 nests in Aberdeenshire. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 125

Over the 1930's numbers over the County were slightly reduced, and then during the war they increased, and by 1945 they had reached pest proportions and a campaign was started for their reduction.

In 1948 the wood in which one of the Shobdon rookeries was sited was felled. The odd pair hung on in what few trees remained, but soon gave up, as they were in an exposed position. The remainder dispersed, starting up two small colonies of 30-40 nests.

From the early 1950's numbers again began to fall (see "Hereford­ shire Birds", Hereford City, 1935-109 nests, 1952-30 nests). This was mainly the result of the use of aldrin in agriculture and the conse­ quent failure of eggs to hatch. By the 1960's aldrin was banned and the Rook population recovered somewhat.

The birds dispersed from the rookery in 1948 never appeared to settle down anywhere, and have occupied isolated trees and copses over the years, and where elm trees are affected with disease, they leave them. The difficulty becomes greater, as suitable trees become scarce, for young birds to decide where to settle, since in the first year they only build nests and do not lay eggs. The population is now probably not more than 25 % of what it was 50 years ago.

I think the future holds no immediate hazard for the Rook, apart from the fact that our dry spells seem to coincide ever more with the time of the young leaving the nest, and many casualties seem to be caused by starvation. We should be thankful that there is now no need for the Wholesale slaughter of the young Rooks at the nest.

All the corvidae in Shobdon parish up to about 10 years back used to roost communally in the Marsh Covert, where the main rookery of some 50 nests is now situated. Since the Douglas firs in Chaff Wood reached a height of some 80 feet, they transferred to this wood, and now on many a winter evening they perform their aerobatics before settling to roost. May they continue to do so for many a year to come!

T. R. AMMONDS. 126 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

ODDITY AND ANECDOTE Albinism For the third year in succession an albino Pheasant is reported, this time from Ivington, from April till the end of the year (MLB-T). Also at Ivington an albino Lapwing is recorded in September, and the same or another was viewed in October at Canon Pyon (MLB-T). At Stoke Lacy a completely white House Martin and another with a white tail left the nest with two normally marked young (PMcD). A pied Blackbird was seen by the Wye at Hereford in February (PGRD), and an all-white Starling in a flock of 10 at Kingsland (SHR). Behaviour At L1anwentre a MOORHEN's nest with 8 eggs was found on June 5th in the centre of the local gullery (ROBG). At Kingsland, on Feb. 17th, SHR noted a GREAT TIT picking up bees as they emerged from the hive; "he didn't have to knock, he just sat at the front door". On the 18th there were 9 drowned bees in the nearby little pond; on the 22nd he was busy fishing out the corpses, and, when out of reach, patted the water and rocked them within grasp. The sheer destructive voracity of the CARRION CROW is mani­ fest. (a) At Bush Bank WHDW watched a Crow catch and devour a Chaffinch as it flew down from the wires; (b) At Hereford a pair have consistently chased domestic pigeons, seeming to prefer white birds, and succeeded in killing a Fan-tail,severing the head (AS); (c) At Swin­ moor TRHO was just in time to save a young Mistle Thrush (fledged and active) already being carried off in the Crow's beak. On Oct. 18th at AlmeIey VMJ watched a NUTHATCH burying corn in the bark of an apple tree. It resented the watchful presence of a Blue Tit, saw him off, and returned to his hoarding. In L1andrindod woods ROBG heard NUTHATCH calls, and found one in a tree, with 3 Blue Tits attacking a hole in a beech defended from inside by the second Nuthatch. After a siege of 20 min­ utes the Tits, assailed from front and rear, retired. The Nuthatches also left. On returning after two hours observer found a Tit in firm possession of the hole. On May 20th at Breinton RM perceived a cob SWAN make a most determined attack on two canoeists. Head held back, he paddled at 6 knots, eventually virtually aquaplaning, and chased the intruders for full 200 yards. They saved their brush only by considerable exertion. The attacker took no notice of 3 following canoes. June 25th, at Lyonshall, RH watched a MAGPIE unable to lift a large chunk of meat. It sat on a gate-post, fluttering its wings, bob­ bing and calling, until a second Magpie came to lend a hand-or beak. After one or two false starts they flew off carrying the meat between them. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 127

The Lulham TAWNY OWLS have nested for a seventh year in their cider barrel, and a similar barrel set up at Swinmoor was immedi­ ately taken over and 2/3 young raised (TRHO). Probably the species could be materially increased by the erection of suitable boxes or barrels. Oct. 7th, AS records a hen SPARROW HAWK knocking herself out against a window in chasing a Sparrow. Kept in the rabbit-run all day she completely recovered and flew off in the evening. In such cases of concussion the most important thing is total rest, preferably in the dark. At the back of a house in Widemarsh street runs an offshoot of Yazor brook. For some years Mr. Claud Powell has seen a KING­ FISHER up and down the brook. On Dec. 9th he found the bird sit­ ting on the fence apparently frozen stiff. He kept it overnight (a frost threatening) and released it, defrosted and active, next day. It is diffi­ cult to believe that a moderate frost could immobilize such a bird-or does it happen more often than is realized, when a bird takes an unwise dip just before a frost sets in? ROBG found two new SWALLOWS' nests on a girder, a site simi­ lar to a Dipper's, supporting a road over a tributary of the Claerwen. The site was pitohed barely 2 feet above the flowing water. From Kingstone DAC writes "For years two pairs of MARTINS have nested under our eaves, usually repairing their nests each year. In late May they were busy again, but after a week or 10 days left the nests half finished. We were not worried because they have done this before, returning after a while to finish the building and settle in. This year while they were away, tthe first week of June, a pair of Flycatchers occupied one of the two nests and laid their eggs. On June 10th the Martins returned, and were angry to find squat­ ters moved in, and for several days attacked the nest with noise and abuse. The Flycatchers were undismayed and sat fast. Faced by such passive resistance the Martins started to build two new nests on the east side of the house, but not liking tthis site returned to the remaining original nest which they completed, and by June 10th Martins and Flycatchers were sitting in peaceful co-existence next door to each other. The story has a sad end, for on the night of June 20th both nests were partially destroyed, and two Flycatcher chicks were dead on the ground. The Martins left, not to return. The cause of the nest des­ truction is obscure; human or rodent agency is unlikely; could it have been owls or magpies? I am happy to say that two pairs of Flycatchers nested successfully in more conventional garden sites". 128 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

CLASSIFIED NOTES

The serial numbers, nomenclature and order used are those used in the "Checklist of Birds of Great Britain and Ireland" published by the British Ornithologists' Union in 1952. Paragraphs prefixed H and R refer to Herefordshire and Radnorshire respectively.

5. GREAT CRESTED GREBE. H. EYWOOD. Jan. 3rd, one; two in Feb., not paired; a pair on March 13th (RHB & CWW); Jan. 31st, three, also on March 15th, not remaining to breed (RLV); Feb. 3rd, four; one on Feb. 10th and none on April 1st (ARM); April 27th, one (RHB). FLINTSHAM. A pair bred and had two young (RLV). SHOBDON DECOY POOL. Jan., a single immature, and Feb. 3rd, another immature and two adults (RM); Jan. 28th, one, and again on April 17th (ARM); March 13th, two pairs (RHB & CWW); April-June, a regular pair (RM); Aug. 5th, two adults and one juvenile (ML); 12th, two adults and two chicks (RM). SHOBDON GROUP OF POOLS. Feb. 24th, one on Swan pool; April 25th, four pairs, and three pairs bred; Aug. 3rd, Rookery pool, pair with three newly hatohed young (TRA). WYE, CLIFFORD. April 2nd, one (BCA); Aug. 11th, one (RM). OLD WEIR. May 20th, one (RM). BODENHAM GRAVEL PITS. Bred (reported by Mr. Davies of the Gravel Organization). Adult pair seen Aug 6th (AJS). R. LLAN BWCH-LLYN. Aug. 19th, two (ROBG); Sept. 30th, two adults and one juvenile (JLF). GLAN LLYN. May 6th, one (ROBG); June 24th, a nest (ROBG). CRAIG-YR-ALLT-GOCH. March 25th, one (ARM). LLANDRINDOD LAKE. March 24th, two (ROBG).

9. LITTLE GREBE. H. Jan. 2nd, seen at Wye Bridge, Hereford (WAD); Hereford Wye, one, and five on Jan. 21st at Castleton (ARM); 3rd, Bredwardine Wye, two, and two at Capler on 28th (BEM); Jan. 13th, Castleton Wye, at least five (Club Outing); Jan. and Feb., Hereford Wye, two (AM); Whitney Wye, two on Jan. 19th (JM); Feb. 20th, Lulham Wye, one (TRHO); Feb. 20th, Bredwardine Farm Pool, one; Castleton Wye, two, and Eywood, two (CWW); March 24th, two on Oaker pool (SHR); May 23rd, near Ross bird with chick on its back (BY). TRA reports that it bred at Canal Pool, Shobdon. June, Moccas, at least one pair, HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 129

and a pair at Blakemere (WAD). Oct. 13th, a single at Shoh­ don Decoy pool and again- Dec. 23rd; and Dec. 19th, three at Criftin Ford (ML). R. Jan. 14th, Dolymynach, one, and one at Hindwell pool Feb. 24th (ROBG); Jan. 28th, Glasbury Wye, up to five, and three at Llyn Hilyn, March 29th (AJS); March 24th, Llyn Hi'lyn, two, and Glan Llyn, one on 25th (ROoo); April 2~h, Llyn Hilyn, two (RM); May 5th, Llyn Hilyn, four, and five on 27th, and three June 2nd (ROOO); June 2nd,one on Llandrindod bog and two atPen-y-Clawdd (ROOO); July 21st, Llyn Hilyn, two with at least one young each; six birds on Sopt. 25th (ROBG); Sept. 9th, Llyn Hilyn, four (MLB-T); Oct. 27th, HindweU, one (ROBG).

28. CORMORANT. H. Jan. 13th, Ballingham Wye, 18 (BEM); 17th, Breinton Wye,three (BFG); Feb. 1st, Hereford, one (AJS); 10th, Turner's Boat, seven roosting, and there till mid-March (AS); 20th, Lower Castleton, one (CWW); March 4th, Warham, two (ARM); April 7th, Bredwardine, at least seven (HTR); Aug. 6th, Bodenham Gravel Pit, a juvenile (AJS); Oct. 6th, Here,ford, one (PORB); Dec. 2nd, Letton, seven; and Castleton, six (Club Outing); 16th, Letton, ten in trees (WAD); 27th, Letton, twelve (KAM). R. Nov. 17th, Claerwen, one (ML); Dec. 16th, Caban Goch, one (ROBG).

30. HERON. H. LEACH POOL. Feb. 20th, 20 birds, some twelve standing by nests; March 13th, several sitting (CWW); April 28th, up to 20 nests (KAM). BERRINGTON HERONRY. The count was 76 nests (per CWW). Singles and pairs reported widely, from Byton, Criftin Ford, Lyepole, Kinsham, Eastnor, Colwall, Brilley, Shelwick, Kinnerton, Warham, Burrington, Welsh Newton, Sutton, Holme Lacy, Winforton, Stretton Sugwas, Ivington and the Wye. R. CEFNDYRYS. April 28th, 28 occupied nests, mostly with young (TRA). PENYBONT HALL. April 29th, two pairs nested, but only one young raised (TRA). Singles, pairs and trios reported at Dolymynach, Glan Llyn, Llyn Hilyn, Builth, Glasbury, Boughrood, Crossgates, Cefnllys, Knighton, Disserth and Garreg ddu. The Wye River Authority alleges a general increase of the Heron. Most anglers however know the bird as a link in the ecological chain (a prime eater of eels, the trout's worst enemy), and tolerate or welcome him. 130 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

45. MALLARD. H. Widely spread and numerous. The only large gatherings however are recorded from Letton, c. 100 and Castleton, c. 100 on Dec. 2nd (Club Outing); Upper Hill, 40 on Feb. 5uh (WHDW), and 30 on Hereford Wye in late autumn (PGRB). Ducks with fleets of nine and seven ducklings are recorded from Llancillo Monnow on May 27th (fRHO), and six on Here­ ford Wye, May 2nd (PGRB). R. Records are numerous, and largest numbers are 80 at Llanwefr, June 24th (P. J. Chadwick); 183 at Craig-yr-allt-Goch, Sept. 26th (RODG); 130 at Moelienydd, Sept. 17th (JLF); 120 at Moelienydd on Oct. 1st (ARM); 73 at Caban Goch, Nov. 25th (ROBG), and 72 on Dec. 16th; 58 at Hindwell pool, Sept. 25th, and 56 on Oct. 27th (ROBG).

46. TEAL. H. Jan. 1st, Marden, c.50 (SB & ARM); 11th, Eywood, ten (JLF); Feb. 20th, Leach Pool, ten (CWW), and Eywood, four (RHB & CWW); 21st, Oaker pools, twelve (SHR), 24th, Byton, a small party (ML); March 6uh, Eywood, six (RLV); Dec. 1st, Turner's Boat, c. 70 (WAD); 2nd, Letton, 20 (Club Out­ ing). Dec., varying dates, parties at Criftin Ford (ML), and Byton, 23rd, c. ten (ML). R. Jan. 13th, Glan Llyn, seven, and three on Feb. 11th and 24th (R.BG); Feb. 25th, Pwll Patti, c. 34 (AJS), and west of Pwll Patti, Feb. 28th, 40-50 (JM); March 25th, Glan Llyn, two (ROBG); Sept. 17th, Moelienydd, c.40 (JLF), and 55 on Nov. 17th; Sept. 26th, Craig-yr-allt-Goch, 21, and 43 on Oct. 7th (ROBG); Nov. 25th, Glan Llyn, four, also on Dec. 16th (ROBG).

49. GADWALL.

50. WIGEON. H. Jan. 1st, Marden, c. ten (ARM & SB); 13th, Leach Pool, c. 30 (Club Outing); 24th, Burrington, c. 100 (JLF); Jan. to mid-March, Warlow Pool, Madley, often 200-300 flight­ ing (TRHO); Feb. 10th, Turner's Boat, c. 100, mostly Teal but with Wigeon and Tufted (AS); Feb. 21st, Oaker pool, a pair (SHR); Feb. 25th, Criftin Ford, c.44 (EG); 20th, Leach Pool, six, but 30 on March 16th (CWW); March 8th, Leintwardine, c. 30 (JLF), and 17th, c. 70 (Club Outing); March 17th, Preston, six (WAD); Sept. 25th, Hampton B:shop, two (JLF); Oct. 12th, Easthampton, six (TRA); Dec. 2nd, Letton, c. 100, and Castleton, c. 120 (Club Outing); Dec. 16th, Turner's Boat, c. 200 (WAD). R. Jan. 14th, Dolymynach, two (ROBG); Feb. 15th, Pwll Patti, 44 (AJS); Sept. 17th, Moelienydd, one (JLF).

52. PINTAIL. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 131

53. SHOVELER. H. Jan. 6th, Shobdon Decoy pool. two pairs (RM), and 9th and 23rd, one or two (ML); Jan. 11 th, Eywood, three (JLF), and eight on March 13th (CWW & RHB); April 25th, still two (RLV); Nov. 24th, one, and Dec. 15th, four pairs (ML); Dec. 1st, two landing on ice (JLF). R. March 9th, Pwll Patti, one (RM).

55. SCAUP. R. Sept. 24th, Llyn Hilyn, four with 20 Coots (MLB-T).

56. TUFTED DUCK. H Jan. 30th, E~OOD, twelve, and 20 on 16th; 24 on Feb. 20th and 22 on March 13th (RHB &CWW); Jan. 28th, 40 + (ARM, JHW, BG & CJP); Feb. 15th, "many" (WMG); March 28th, 20-30 (JM). SHOBDON DECOY POOL, small parties on varying dates through Feb. and then autumn (ML); Jan. c. ten (RM); March 26th, 15 (AJS); Feb.-March, c. twelve, and five pairs on May 1st (RM); June 11th, a pair (RM). Other places-Feb. 20th, Leach Pool, eight, and 13 on March 10th (CWW); Feb. 8th, Warlow pool, six (TRHO); Dec. 1st, Turner's Boat, c. 30 (WAD); Dec. 2nd, Letton, two (Club Outing). SHR records up to six on Oaker Wood pools, Jan.­ June. R. Jan. 13th, Hindwell, three, and four on Feb. 24th (ROBG); 28th, Llyn Hilyn, one (AJS); March 24th, Llyn Hilyn, ten (ROBG), and Apri112th, six pairs (AS); March 24th, Uan Bwch llyn, small party (ML); April 12th, Gwaunceste h:Il, six pairs (AS); 20th, Llyn Hilyn, two, and eight on May 8th (ROBG); June 3rd, Pen-y-Clawdd, a pair and suspected young (ROBG); July 21st, Llyn Hilyn, four, and s:x on Oct. 27th (ROBG); Sept. 28th, Hindwell, five, ten on Oct. 27th, eight on Nov. 5th and seven on Dec. 15th; Sept. 30th, Llan Bwch llyn, 35 (JLF).

57. POCHARD. H. Jan. 3rd, Eywood, three, and six on Feb. 20th, and seven on Mar.;h 13th (RHB & CWW); Jan. 4th, Shobdon Decoy pool, c.l0, and c.24 on Jan. 6th; Jan. 11th, Eywood, 16 (JLF); 13th, Letton, present (Club Outing); Jan. 24th, Castleton, five; 28th, Shobdon, nine; Feb. 3rd, Eywood; 14, and one still left April 1st (ARM); Feb. 21st, Oaker pools, three (SHR); Shobdon Decoy pool, small parties in Oct. and Dec. (ML); Dec. 1st, Turner's Boat, c. ten, and c. 20 on Dec. 16th (WAD). R. Jan. 14th, Dolymynach, three, and six on Feb. 24th (ROBG); 27th, Hindwell, two (Club Outing); 28th, Uyn Hilyn, four (AJS), and March 24th, two (ROBG) and May 5th, one; Oct. 6th, Llyn Hilyn, three, and three on Nov. 5th and Dec. 15th (ROBG); Oct. 6th, Hindwell, one (ROBG); Oct. 28th, Dolymy­ nach, four, and 13 on Dec. 16th (ROBG); Dec. 15th, Hindwell, five (JLF); Dec. 16th, Caban Coch, 13 (ROBG). 132 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

S8. FERRUGINOUS DUCK. R. Aug. 14th, Hindwell, one noted (JMB & RHB); Nov. 25th, Elan Valley reservoir, noted (ROBG).

60. GOLDEN-EYE. H. Jan. 1st, Holme Lacy, two (JLF); 13th, Castleton, seven (Club Outing); 28th, Eywood, one (ARM); Feb. 11th, Shobdon, a pair (ARM); Nov.1Sth, Shobdon, one (ML), Dec. 1st, Turner's Boat, one (WHO), and 2nd, Castleton, one; and 27th, Letton, one (KAM). . . R. Jan. 14th, Dolymynach, two, and three on Feb. 24th (ROBG); Feb. 27th, Caban Coch, three (EEG); Oct. 26th, Hind­ well, one, also Nov. 5th and Dec. 15th (ROBG); Oct. 28th, Doly­ mynach, one, also on Dec. 16th (ROW); Nov. 25th, HindweIl, one (ML); Garreg ddu, one (ROBG).

69. RED-BREASTED MERGANSER. R. Sept. 26th, Craig-yr­ allt-Goch, one (ROBG).

70. GOOSANDER. H. Jan. 5th, Bredwardine, nine; Moccas, three (BCA); 13th, Letton, two (Club Outing); Feb. 10th, Eywood, one (ARM); Dec. 1st, Turner's Boat, 4-6, and 13 on 16th (WAD); 2nd, Letton, seven, ana Castleton, six (Club Outing); 27th, Turn­ er's Boat and LettO'1, two each (KAM). R. Jan. 2nd, Llowes, two (NWW); Elan Valley lakes, record­ ings numerous, including Jan. 14th, four (ROBG), and 30+ (ML); Feb. 27th, 25 (EEG); March 10th, 40+ (ML); March 17th, 13 pairs (PGB); ApTl117th, four (ARM); Aug. 20th, four, two of them immature (ROBG); Nov. 17th, two pairs (ML); Dec. 1st, 20 (ARM), and 16th, six (RODa).

73. SHELD-DUCK. H. Nov. 11 th, Eywood, one (ML).

UNIDENTIFIED GREY GEFSE. H. May, Whitney, a wild Grey Goose was noted with observer's three domestic adults and 13 goslings. Two more wild birds later appeared and spent a week or more; suspected of being Greylags. Dec. 15th, Here­ ford, 34 fiying over County Hospital (HEM).

75. GREYLAG GOOSE.

76. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE. H. Jan. 25th, Shelwick, 28 fiying low (ARM); Feb. 20th, Common Hill, Fownhope, 40 fly­ ing west (KAM). R. Feb. 24th, Llandrindod, four seen and heard (ROBG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 -133

82. CANADA GOOSE. H. Jan. 24th, Castleton, three with a Bar­ nacle Ooose (ARM); Feb. 20th, Leach Pool, two, and three OD March 13th (CWW); March-April, Moccas, five, and a pair bred, with seven young in May (WAD); March 17th, Leintwardine, a pair (Club Outing); April 17th, Shobdan, a pair, and 23rd, Stret· ton Sugwas, two (ARM); 28th, Leach Pool, 13 (KAM); May 6th, Oaker, nests with five and two eggs, and a pair with five young (SHR); Aug. 24th, Carrots Wye, one (BEM); Dec. 16th, Turner's Boat, 22 rHAD). BCA records nesting at Westan pool. TRA records fewer pairs near Shobdon than in 1972; autumn flock, IS; BramptoD Brian, two hand-reared by keeper. R. Feb. 28th, Pwll Patti, four and three up to March 19th (JM); June 3rd, Penybont lake, four with eleven goslings (ROBO also TRA).

84. MUTE SWAN. H. Hereford Wye, seen often, up to six an March 22nd; and Sept. 8th, a pair with three cygnets (PGRB); May, Lulham Wye, a pair with three immatures (TRHO). Eywood, a pair had six young (RLV). Kinsham, a pair nested by the Lugg (ML). R. HindwelI, Jan. 27th, two adult and two immature (Club Outing); Sept. 25th, two with six cygnets (ROBO).

85. WHOOPER SWAN. R. Jan. 14th, DoIymynach, two; on 11th and Feb. 24th, four adults and one juvenile; and five on March 25th (ROBG); Feb. 27th, Caban Coch, five (EEO); March 3rd, Llanwithwl, one in flight, and five at Caban Coch (00); March 21st, two out of five entered Radnor water (ARM); Nov. 25th, Dolymynach, three adults, and three on Dec. 16th (RODO).

86. BEWICK'S SWAN. H. Jan. 13th, Castleton, nine and four (Club Outing); Feb. 10th, Turner's Boat, 35, and six on Feb. 17th (AS); Dec. 1st, Turner's Boat, three (WAD); 2nd, Bush Bank, 19 flying, and Dec. 23rd, nine (WHDW); Dec. 2nd, Letton, four, and Castleton, 24 (Club Outing); Dec. 9th, Kings Caple, seven on Wye; and Letton, Dec. 27th, seven (KAM); Dec. 27th, Castleton, two, and Fownhope, eleven (KAM).

91. BUZZARD. H. Very widely recorded, from Canon Pyon, Grafton, Madley, Qifford, Castleton, Moreton, Eardisley, Bril­ ley, Cusop, Norton Canon, Lyepole, Pool Hill, Moccas, Stoke Edith, Craswall, Bredwardine, Burrington, Bircher, Colwall, Welsh Newton, Dinmore and Okhon valley. Not more than five seen together. Young newly reared birds recorded at Longtown, LlanciIlo, and Lyepole (TRHO) and Chaff Wood (TRA). 134 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

R. Most seen together-six at Four Stones (Club Outing) and seven at Glan Llyn (ROBG). Widely reported, from Garreg ddu, Elan Hotel, Glashury, Boughrood, Llandrindod, Builth, Caban Coch where a pair saw off a Kite with much mutual noise (ARM), Uan Bwch Hyn, Dolymynach, CefuUys, Walton and Hundred House.

93. SPARROW HAWK. Hand R. There are some 50 records, from all directions I!l Herefordshire and east Radnorshire. Sparrow Hawks were seen to stoop on Siskins at Lyepole (TRA); on Blue Tits at Bush Bank bird-table (WHDW); at Bril­ ley bird-table where it carried off a (probable) Marsh Tit (WL-S); and carrying a bird at Welsh Newton (FMP). Suspected or known breeding is recorded from Bredwardine, Breinton, Shob­ don, and Llancillo.

95. KITE. H. Sept. 9th, Kington, one in the woods near Lyonshall (GS). R. Jan. 29th, ;lear Newchurch, one (RLV); Feb. 25th, Pen­ Rhiw-Wen, a pair circling in snow storm ffiG); March 1st, Caban Coch, one in conflict with Buzzards (ARM); 25th, West Radnor, two (ROBCJ); Aug. 20th, Aber Glan Hirin, orie, and again one on Sept. 26th and Nov. 25th (ROBG); Oct. 22nd, West Radnor, one (MB); Nov. 17th, C2ban Coch, one (ML).

100. HARRIER Sp. R. Oct. 13th, Moel-Geufran, a cock bird in view for 10 minutes (EG).

104. HOBBY. H. Aug. 17th, Almeley, one seen on fence of corn­ field (VMJ); Sept. 1st, Madley, one seen briefly over Red Lion Inn; and a better view of an adult overhead at 30 feet (WAD).

105. PEREGRINE FALCON. R. March 21st, Elan Valley, a pair; also on April 17th (ARM, SB & JM); May 19th, Elan Valley, a pair seen; very noisy on June 10th (ARM); Badnage Hill. Dec. 9th, one flying about summit at 1,500 ft., an immature (BMK).

107. MERLIN. H. April-May, Hoarwithy, noted several times (TFVM). R. April-May, Gladestry, noted during past three years (RDG); Aug. 20th, Glan Hirin, one (ROBG); Aug. 27th, DutIas, one (MR), not seen before in this area. Sept. 11th, Hundred House-Howey. one hunting (VMJ). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 135

110. KESTREL H. and R. Widely though thinly spread over both Counties. In the Knighton area MR records a complete dis­ appearance of this formerly common species. At Welsh New­ ton a Kestrel took a feeding bird from the bird-table on June 12th. Kestrels are frequently seen over the city and on the Cathedral.

Ill. RED GROUSE. H July 14th, Olchon valley, one (BEM). R. TRA records a patchy season, and egg-shells denoting Crow predation; Oct. 28th, "numerous on Black Hill". Other records are-Jan. 27th, Black Mixen, two (Club Outing); March 10th, LlandeiIo, one pair (WMG); 31st, Llanbedr, twelve (AM); 28th, Hatteral Hill, three prairs (JFB3; April 1st, Llanbedr, six, and four on 18th (ARM); 28th, Beguildy, "many" (M. Roote); May 28th, Pool Hill, six (ROBG); June 3rd, Gwaunceste Hill, two (ROBG); Beacon Hill, Knighton, "numerous" (MR); Aug. 25th, Moelfre, seven and nine (JLF); Oct. 27th, Felindre, 15 + (ML).

113. BLACK GROUSE. R. Three odd Black-cock were reported by Foresters in April around Waun Marteg (TRA).

115. RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE. H. March 26th, Hereford, Lower Hill farm, two (PGRB); April-May, Madley-Tyberton area, several coveys (WAD also TRHO); April 9th, Fownhope, two (KAM); July 7th, Brierley, a hen with 6 chicks (WHDW).

116. PARTRIDGE. As all over England, the tendency is fOf a de­ cline. No Radnor records have come in. H. Up to April pairs are recorded from Hereford (PGB also PGRB), the Malverns (JLF), Rrilley (WL-S), Welsh Newlon (FMP), Mordiford (RG). From June onwards small coveys are reported from Fownhope and Letton (KAM) and Madley (TRHO).

117. QUAIL. H. May 28th, Tyberton, calling in late evening, two on June 12th. Heard up to June 28th (WAD). No signs of Quail on Shobdon aerodrome this year.

118. PHEASANT. H. Late broods did quite well and birds are fairly numerous. 136 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOOICAL REPORT, 1973

120. WATER RAIL. H. March 9th. MOl"eton, one flushed (AJS}; July 18th, Bromyard, one killed on the road (PMcD); Oct. 7th, Moccas pool, three seen and one calling, and again on Dec. 151Jh and 23rd (WAD); Dec. 15th, Moccas, one shot in mistake for Snipe (per BSI).

125. CORNCRAKE. May 13th, Lower Lulham, listened to by a number of people in the same place as last year, corn on one sid~ and grass on the other (per TRHO).

126. MOORHEN. A bad year owing to the drying up of ponds and marshes. H. Jan., Colwall, recorded as eating apples in orchard (RM); Ivington, 31 came to the bird-table daily, an increase of 25 on 1972 (MLB-T). R. Hindwell, twelve on Jan. 12th (ROBG), 29 on Sept. 25th, 18 on Oct. 27th and Nov. 24th (ROBG) and 16 on Dec. 15th. June 3rd, Llanwentre, nest wibh eight eggs in gullery (ROBG).

127. COOT. H. Jan. 4th, Castleton, several (ARM); 28th, Shobdon, 130 (ARM); Feb. 8th, Warlow Pool, 35, and April 30th the first young swimming (TRHO); Feb. 15th, Titley, 17 (WMG); Dec. 2nd, Letton, 55 (Club Outing).

131. OYSTERCATCHER. H. Feb. 17th, Turner's Boat, one on shingle with Black-headed Gulls (AS); March 1st, Hereford Wye, one very noisy bird (AJS).

133. LAPWING. H. As a breeding species the Lapwing's hold is now precarious. Scattered pairs have bred, and success is known or suspected at Upton Bishop (for the first time in many years), where four pairs bred and three produced six young (EME), Welsh Newton (FMP) and Ivington (MLB-T). No really large summer-to-winter flocks are recorded. The biggest are c.300 at Ivington (MLB-T) on Jan. 6th; c.300 at Milton Cross, Nov. 4th (VMJ), and c. 200 at Eardisley on Sept. 25th (ROBG); c. 200 at Moreton on Feb. 25th, and at Turner's Boat (AJS); and c. 20{l at Eardisley on Feb. 24th (ROBG). R. Commoner as a breeder. The only big flocks recorded are c. 600 at Moelienydd on Aug. 25th (JLF); c. 250 at HindweII and 200 at Crossgates, Dec. 15th (ROBG); 200+ at Four Stones. Jan. 27th (Club Outing); and c.200 at Gladestry, Aug. 11th (RDG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 137'

134. RINGED PLOVER. H. Aug. 21st, Hereford Wye, one imma­ ture flushed, and three on 22nd (with a Dunlin); Sept. 11th, two flushed (AJS).

140. GOLDEN PLOVER. H. Shobdon airfield, Jan. 14th, c.300, and last seen March 18th; on Aug. 26th, three; 30 on Sept. 23rd; 60 + on Oct. 28th, with moulted feathers all over the ground; c. 1,000 on Nov. 11th (TRA). Other records are-Jan. 13th, ClifIord, three (Club Outing); 16th, Pembridge, ten with Lap­ wings; and on March 13th, c. 200 with Lapwings (RHB & CWW); Jan. 28th, Milton Cross, 100 + (ARM); Feb. 11th, Huntington, five (BFG); Oct. 9th, Hereford, one (PGRB); Dec. 2nd, Castle­ ton, four (Club Outing). R. Jan. 17th, WaIton, 145 (JLF); 27th, Four Stones, c.9O (Oub Outing); Feb. 24th, Hindwell, c. 60 (ROBG); March 22nd, Moelienydd, 30 (EEG); 29th, Radnor border, calling (AJS); 31st, LIanbedr, c. 30 (AM); May 6th, Blaen Rhestr four and a nest with four eggs (ROBG); July 14th, MoeIienydd, twelve, some in breeding dress, and 20 on Aug. 15th (JLF); July 1st, Beacon Hill, four (JLF); Aug. 11th, Gladestry, c. 100 with Lapwings (RDG); Aug. 20th, Aber Glan Hirin, two (ROBG); Oct. 1st, HindweIl, c. 350 (ARM).

145. SNIPE. H. Jan. 22nd, Swinmoor, Madley, six (TRHO); Jan.­ March, Sutton-Lugwardine, scattered single birds (CWW); March 2nd, Staplow, Ledbury, 13 (JP); 26th, Gatsford, Ross, one (BY); 31st, Madley, c.30 (WAD); Aug. 8th, Shobdon, young seen (TRA); Aug. 13th, Moreton, one; and seven on Aug. 20th, and two on Sept. 20th (AJS); Oct. 14th, Shobdon, 14 (TRA); Dec. 17th, Carrots Wye, 15 + (BEM), who comments "an excellent year for Snipe"; Dec. 22nd, Hereford, at least two (RM). R. April 8th, Beguildy, several (M. Roote); April 20th, Peny­ bont, two; MoeIienydd, five on 28th and two with nests and eggs (ROBG); June 3rd, LIandrindod bog, one, and LIyn Hilyn, three on June 23rd (ROBG); Oct. 27th, Gorddu Bank, small parties (ML).

147. JACK SNIPE. H. Feb. 26th, Moreton, one (AJS); Dec. 2nd, Hampton Bishop, on~ (JLF). R. March 9th, Mawn pools, Bryngwyn, one (B. Bullough); April 12th, Gwaunceste Hill, one allowing approach to six yards (AS); Nov. 24th, Penybont Common, one (ROBG). 138 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

148. WOODCOCK. H.Feb. 3rd, Welson bog, one (ARM, BG & JHW); March 3rd, Oaker, one (SHR); March 10th, Fownhope, roding (KAM); 14th, Welsh Newton, a pair, and a single flying on April 27th (FMP); April 26th. Foxley, two; and one in Haug.h Wood, April 29th (JLF); May 18th, Nupend, roding; 20th, two at Backbury hilI, and one at Checkley, roding (ARM); June 1st, Dorstone hilI, one nested (WAD). R. Dec. 15th, Disserth, one (ROBG).

150. CURLEW. H. Jan. 5th, Ivington, first heard (MLB-T); 24th, Wigmore, 25 (JLF); March 3rd, Criftin Ford, c. 50 (EO); 4th, Lugg Meadows, first seen, a few scattered birds (CWW); 4th, Criftin Ford, c. 20 (SI> & ARM); 8th, Leintwardine, c. 150 in two flocks (JLF); 10th, ~iadley, first noted (WAD); 18th, BrilIey, first heard; less frequent than formerly (WL-S); April 7th, Colwall, two (RL); Norton Canon, two (AS); April-June, Lyonshall, two pairs recorded (RH); May 30th, Welsh Newton, calling (FMP); Oct. 26th, Moreton, birds passing over (AJS). At Kingsland SHR records several pairs nesting. R. Jan. 2nd, LIowes, 70-80 (NWW); 6th, Olasbury, two, and PwII Patti, one on March 12th OM); March 25th, LIandrindod, a party in flight (ROBG); April 12th, Gwaunceste hilI, three pairs with Lapwing (AS); 20th, Penybont, three; and at MoeIienydd, two with a nest, and four others (ROBG); April 1st, Llan Bwch llyn, one (ARM); June 3rd, LIanwefr, two, and a nest with four eggs (ROBG); Oct. 1st, MoeIienydd, c. 30 (ARM).

151. WHIMBREL. H. July 24th, Moreton, characteristic calls at 2030 G.M.T. (AJS). R. July 14th, MoeIienydd, one; and Beacon hill on July 21st, one (JLF).

156. GREEN SANDPIPER. H. Jan. 13th, CastIeton, two (Club Outing); 14th, Kingsland, one (SHR); Feb. 25th, Bucton, two on Teme (EG); March 8th, Luston, one (RM); 17th. Leintwardine, five (Club Outing); April 8th, Moecas, one, and one at Bredwar­ dine on 15th and 20th (WAD); June 23rd, Hampton Bishop, one resting (JLF); July 4th, Titley Arrow, one (FSB's); 6th, Holme Lacy, three, and four on 13th (JLF); 26th, Turner's Boat, one (WAD); Aug. 13th, Hereford Wye, one (AJS); 18th-26th, Bur­ rington, frequent on Teme (ROBG); Oct. 17th, Much Cowarne, one (JGM); Dec. 16th, one at Bredwardine (WAD). R. Aug. 28th, Glasbury-Hay, several (ROBG). HEREFORDSIDRE ORNITHOLOGICAL ImPORT, 1973 139

159. COMMON SANDPIPER. H. April 2nd, Criftin Ford, one, and one at Leach Pool on 28th (KAM); 10th, Holme Lacy, first seen, same day as 1972 (JLF); April 15th, Bredwardine, one, a pair on 20th

161. REDSHANK. H. April 1st, Kenchester, one on marshy pool (ARM); Dec. 28th, Hereford Wye, one in flight (AJS). R. March 22nd, MoeIienydd, five (EEG); May 28th, Moelien­ ydd, two with nest and eggs, plus two others (ROBG); July 7th, Llowes, one (WAD); Sept. 26th, Craig-yr-aIIt-Goch, two (ROBG).

162. SPOTTED REDSHANK. H. Sept. 12th, Hampton Bishop, one spent the morning on the Wye, often consorting with a Green Sandpiper (JLF & JVF). Also watched on 13th and 14th. [Previous records, one shot at Monkland, 1881; one recorded on Shelwick floods, July 21st, 1968~Ed.].

165. GREENSHANK. H. April 5th, lvington, one flew off pool (MLB-T); Aug. 16th, Hampton Bishop, one spent the morning (JLF); Aug. 24th, Burrington, one on Teme (RM); Sept. 9th, Holme Lacy, one (JLF). R. Aug. 11 th, Be~,'wns, one flying and caIling (JLF).

178. DUNLIN. H. Aug. 6th, Hereford Wye, two flushed, one with black summer marking (AJS); Oct. 2nd, Hereford Wye, one in winter plumage, and four on Dec. 7th (AJS); Dec. 1st, Bredwar­ dine, one seen and heard (WAD); 2nd, CastIeton Wye, two singles, then a pair (Club Outing). R. May 6th, Moelienydd, three (JMB); Aug. 11th, Begwyns, one adult (JLF); Sept. 17th, MoeIienydd, one resting (JLF).

198. GREATER BLACK-BACKED GULL. H. Dec. 2nd, Castle­ ton Wye, one (Club Outing). R. Jan. 2nd, LIowes, one adult and one immature (NWW); act. 7th, Craig-yr-aIIt·Goch, one, and on Dec. 16th (ROBG). 140 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

199. LESSER BLACK·BACKED GULL H. Severn Estuary flight lines evident in S.E. Herefordshire, Jan. 14th; 21 counted in after­ noon flight (AJS); Jan. 15th-25th, Hereford, often seen, and nine on Feb. 8th (PGRB); eight on Aug. 28th and four on Sept. 23rd (PGRB); Nov. 5th, Ledbury, 18 (RODO). AJS notes it seen near Hereford in every month. R. Feb. 11 th, Caban Cach, two, and two at Pen-y-Garreg on Feb. 24th (ROBG); Feb. 18th, Claerwen, one (ML).

200. HERRING GULL. H. Feb. 25th, Turner's Boat, one adult (AJS). R. May 20th, Beacon Hill, one immature (MR).

201 COMMON GULL. H. Severn Estuary flight line evident Jan. 14th; over 1,000 counted during the afternoon at junction of three main lines to roosting point. At Moreton a single on July 6th, first evidence oi "winter" birds (AJS). PGRB notes small numbers in Hereford area Jan.-March 19th, and again Aug.-Nov. R. Nov. 25th, Caban Cach, one (ROBG); Feb. 20th, Hind­ well pool fields, 800 gulls, most of them this species (ROBG).

208. BLACK-HEADED GULL. H. and R. Jan. 14th, Severn Estuary flight, c. 300 counted on way to roost (AJS). Occasional records are many and widespread. Larger numbers are-April 12th, Foice hill pool, several hundred (AS); Oct. 26th, Llyn Hilyn, 23, and Nov. 5th, Ledbury, 50 (ROBG). Breeding is of interest. At Moelienydd on May 6th two nests had eggs (JMB). The Bredwardine colony was again deserted. At Warlow Pool, Madley, a small colony (maybe a dozen or more) formed for the first time ever recorded, and despite drought there were young on July 19th (TRHO). At Bishop­ stone, only 2-3 miles away, another new gullery was formed for the first time, on a pond; about 60 pairs nested, many success­ fully (ERFG). See also article on this species by Major R. O. B. Garnett.

212. BLACK TERN. H. Late May; Berrington Hall pool, Lord Cawley reports a sighting by his keeper. Sept. 3rd, Holme Lacy Wye, one was watched for 20 minutes (JLF).

TERN Sp. H. July 26th, Turner's Boat, one believed to be a Common Tern (WAD). R. May 6th, Moelienydd, one (TRA). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 141

232. STOCKDOVE. H. Feb. 10th, Vowchurch, c.80 on stubble (JLF); 25th, Wellington, singing (AJS). Feb. until autumn, heard around Swinmoor, Madley ([RHO); March 24th, Kingsland, a pair nesting in owl-box (SHR); April 3rd, Grafton, two (PGRB); June 25th, Eardi&ley, one (ROBG); July, Stoke Lacy, singing (PMcD); Dec. 27th, Letton, c. twelve (KAM). TRA records a flock of 60 at Easthampton. At Bush Bank a pair occupied a nest-box March 6th-April 4th and June 14th-15th, probably robbed by grey squirrels (WHDW). Nov., Garway, young still being fed (TRA). R. Jan. 2nd, Llowes, c.45 (NWW); Feb. 24th, Dolymynach, one, and Garreg ddu, one (ROBG).

234. WOODPIGEON. H. Hole-in-the wall area, Jan. 14th. c. 1,000 in one field (AJS). R. Jan. 27th, Hindwell-Four Stones, 50 + (Club Outing).

235. TURTLE DOVE. H. May 1st, LuIham Wye, present, and 2nd, two in Haugh Wood (WAD); 7th, Eywood, present (EEG); 12th, Easthampton, singing, and a pair at Byton on 18th ([RA); 18th, Bush Bank, singing (WHDW); June 14th-16th, Ivington, singing (MLB-T); 15th, Wormbridge, present ([RHO); June 24th, Graf­ ton, one (PGRB); 25th, Haugh Wood, two (BEM); July 8th, Lyonshall, singing (FSB's). Noted by ARM in Haugh Wood, Netherwood and Holme Lacy in early summer. ML records a pair at Shobdon, and singles at Kinsham, Birtley and Wigmore, June--Aug. R. June 24th, a pair at Clyro (P. J. Chadwick); July 13th, Llowes, three (WAD).

COLLARED DOVE. H. Jan.-March, noted by TRHO often at Madley, Kingstone, Preston, Hereford, Wormbridge and Llan­ cillo. Jan.-March, seen daily at Cusop (JM); Feb. 25th, Blake­ mere and Tyberton, in song (AJS); March 22nd, Tram Inn, 39 counted at the Sun Valley depot (BFG); Aug. 19th, singles at Aymestrey and Wigmore (MR). At Ivington ten were found dead in the garden, cause unassigned; c. 40 roost nearby (MLB-T). R. April 24th, Presteign, noted (EEG); May 8th, Llowes, one (WL-S); Nov. 24th, Hindwell, three (ROBG).

237. CUCKOO. H. First heard again at Madley, April 15th ([RHO) and 17th (WAD);20th, Great Doward (MPW); 21st, Brilley (WL-S); 22nd, Kingsland (JEM). Numbers average. Last "cuckoo" June 22nd, Madley ([RHO). 142 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

241. BARN OWL H. Jan. 29th, BoIlingham, one (JMB); Feb. Kin­ nersley, flying around (VMJ); Feb. 3rd, Baton Bishop, one (BEM); Feb. 4th, Madley, one (TRHO) and several times after­ wards; 24th, Kinnersley, one (ROBG); 26th, Combe Corner, one (ML); Maroh 8th, Holme Lacy, three (per TRHO); March 17th, Leintwardine, one (Club Outing); 21st, Letton, one in daylight (ARM); Madley, one (ARM); April 2nd, Wigmore, one (KAM); 27th, Almeley, one (A. Cadman); 27th, Kingsland, one hunting so low as almost to hit sheep (JEM); April, one killed on road near Kington; June, near Leomincter, three young reared (TRA); Nov. 7th, Colwall, one (RL). R. Jan. 27th, Four Stones, one (Club Outing); Feb. 26th, Broad Heath, one killed on road (TRA); June 24th, one at Llan­ fawr (P. J. Chadwick); June 30th, Presteign, one (MR). Despite road casualties, this shows an increase in records, though few summer records.-Ed.

246. LI'ITLE OWL. H. Feb. 18th, WHDW records a pair at Dil­ wyn, singles near Ivington, and one at Bush Bank in April; regu­ lar sightings at Wintercott, and seven birds at Gattertop on July 2nd. PGB records five calling on western edge of Hereford, April 3rd. CJR reports the bird often seen near Llangarron. TRHO reports two pairs at Swinmoor, Madley, and others nearby. TRA reports the species increased around Easthampton. Other records come, at all times of year, from Broomy Hill (WMG), Wormsley (BCA), Warham and Sutton (ARM), Stap­ Iow (JP), Little MarcIe (RLV), Kingsland (MR), Welsh Newton (FMP), Birley (RL), Breinton, Woolhope and CheekIey (ARM). R. Six pairs reported nesting in the Pwll Patti area (per AM).

247. TAV\'NY OWL. H. and R. Despite road casualties and loss of old timber the bird is well distributed and not uncommon though numbers much reduced. Reported from every area of Hereford­ shire. Nested in Bredwardine churchyard for the 8th successive year (BCA), and in two cider barrels at Madley (TRHO). Also heard and seen on the Cathedral tower (WMG). Near Shob­ don in Feb. difficulty was had in ejecting a pair from the chimney of an empty cottage.

248. LONG·EARED OWL.

249. SHORT·EARED OWL.

252. NIGHTJAR. H. CheekIey, May 20th, two in song, calling and displaying; heard again June 19th and July 14th (ARM); also noted by KAM and others at Qub Outing; June 9th, Stoke Edith. two churring (TRA). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 143

255. SWIFf. H. First record April 30th, Tupsley (RG); May 1st, Hereford (WAn); and 2nd, five (PGRB); 4th, Titley, two (RLV); 5th, Kington (JMB). Last records Aug. 20th, Leintwardine (MB); and Sept. 1st, Madley, three (WAD). The Birtley boxes were occupied by seven pairs who reared twelve young (TRA). R. May 5th, Builth quarry, two, and Glan Llyn, one on 6th (ROBG).

258. KINGFISHER. H. On TEME reported at Criftin Ford by JLF, one, Jan. 24th; July 15th, Beguildy (MR); at Hay Mill, a pair, Aug. 24th (RM). ON WYE at Foy, April 27th (RM); Bridge Sollars, March 17th (WAD) and LuLham, 30th (TRHO); Brobury, July 1st, and Clifford, Aug. llth (RM); Hereford, Oct. 17th (NRD); Shelwick and Holme Lacy (ARM); Hampton Park, two, Aug. 24th (BEM). On LUGG, at Kinsham on varying dates (ML), at Lyepole and Aymestrey (TRHO) where young were being fed June 15th. On MONNOW, not seen at Llan­ cillo until July, thereafter several times (TRHO); EIGN brook, Sept. 2nd (RG) and Dec. 21st (RM); Shobdon pools, July 12th (RM) and Nov. 25th; also Dec. 16th (ML). R. Jan. 16th, Builth, one (JM); July 31st, Gladestry, two (FSB's).

262. GREEN WOODPECKER. H. Despite loss of timber, mild winters seem to have benefited the species and records come from every part of the County and throughout the year. MPW records it from Symond's Yat; WL-S from Brilley, "laughing its head off"; RM from Shobdon; JM from Cusop and Ross; TRHO from Madley (rare), Llancillo (two pairs) and Lyepole (three pairs); ROBG from Eardisley; ARM from Shelwick, Warham, Huntington, Olchon valley, Wessington and Shobdon, Dinmore, Backbury, Holme Lacy and Merbach; FMP from Garway and Welsh Newton; PMcD from Stoke Lacy and Ullingswick; RG from Vowchurch; MLB-T from Ivington; BEM from Haugh Wood; WHDW from Bush Bank; RL from ColwaII. R. ROBG reports it from Glan Uyn and CefnIIys, Disserth, Bleddfa and Llyn Hilyn.

263. GREATER SPOTTED WOODPECKER. Probably more numerous than the Green Woodpecker, and apparently a hardier bird. H. Reports come from all corners of the County. First heard drumming at Canon Bridge, Madley, Feb. 3rd (TRHO). Reported by WBB from Ledbury-bird table; ColwaII-bird table (RL); Cusop-bird table (JM); Moccas and Haugh Wood, 144 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNImOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

six (WAD); Lyonshall-bird table (RH); Shobdoo-feeding young (RM); Welsh Newton and St. Wulstans-feeding young (FMP); Stoke Lacy (PMcD); Warham (BFG); Almeley (VMJ); Stretton Grandison (RG); Ivington-drumming (MLB-T); Bel­ mont-drumming (PGRB); Kinsham, breeding successfully (ML). R. May 10th, Presteign, at bird table (EEG); June 25th, LIyn Hilyn and Aug. 20th, Glan LIyn (ROBG); Sept. 5th, LIandrin­ dod (ROBG); Dec. 15th, Disserth (ROBG).

264. LESSER SPO'ITED WOODPECKER. H. Fairly widely re­ ported during the whole season. March 6th, Woolhope, a pair (JLF); and Grafton (PGRB); April, Moccas, Lulham and Mad­ ley (WAD); April 5th, Lyepole and 13th, Llancillo (TRHO); at Staplow, two feeding on black aphids on cherry (JP); Warham and Shobdon (ARM); Sutton and Shelwick (ARM); Hampton Bishop, eating elder berries (JLF); Almeley, mobbing an un­ perturbed Greater Spotted (VMJ); Holme Lacy, on diseased elm (JLF); Ivington (MLB-T); Wessington (WAM); Shobdon (ML). First drumming heard at Fownhope, March 19th (KAM). R. Aug. 19th at Llandrindod and Sept. 26th at Glan Uyn (ROW); also at Glan Llyn, Jan. 13th.

271. WOODLARK.

272. SKYLARK. H. Nov. 13th, movement noted, e.g. flock of 20 flying NNW (AJS). R. June 3rd, Llanwefr, nest with four eggs and another with four young (ROBG).

274. SWALLOW. H. First bird seen at Whitney, March 31st (WL~); April 3rd, Easthampton (TRA); 16th, Warham (ARM) and Welsh Newton (FMP); 17th, Lulham (WAD); 18th, Swin­ moor (TRHO). Last occurrence, Lingen, Oct. 9th (E. Marsh); 10th, Easthampton, and 11th, Eardisland (JMB). R. April 27th, Beguildy (Marcus Roote); May 1st, LIyn Hilyn (EEG). Last seen Sept. 26th, Afon Elan (ROBG). Numbers seem to be down, but breeding fairly successful-Bd.

276. HOUSE MARTIN. H. First noted at Hereford, April 7th (AM); 27th, Almeley, defeated by Sparrows, but returned to nest (three pairs) successfully, last bird leaving nest on Oct. 8th (VMJ); May 1st, Hereford, and 2nd, Madley (WAD). Last birds Oct. 7th at Moreton (AJS) and 10th at Leominster (MLB-T). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 145

277. SAND MARTIN. This species is at a very low level. Former colonies are deserted or reduced to a few pairs. The decline has occurred over some four years, perhaps partly owing to two years of summer floods. H. April 4th, Holme Lacy, three (JLF); 10th, Hereford Wye. one (AJS), and an influx on May 2nd. Only two pairs at Lye,. pole; and Uancillo colony dead (TRHO). Last bird Sept 29th, Hereford (RG). R. April 7th, Glasbury (WAD); July 5th, Beguildy, five (MR).

279. RAVEN. H. Feb. 14th, Symond's Vat, and not uncommonly seen (MPW); Jan., and throughout the year, up to three birds over Madley (TRHO); April 27th, Eywood, two (RHB); April Shobdon, breeding (TRA); Brilley, a pair often seen (WL-S); April-May, Moccas, a pair (WAD); Aug. 12th, Black Darren, seen (BEM); Oct., Uancloudy, two often seen (HO); Dec. 2nd, Letton, two (Club Outing); 23rd, Woolhope, two (KAM). R. Jan. 13th, Uyn Gwyn, five; Glan Uyn, nine; and Uan­ drindod, one on nest, Feb. 24th (ROBG); Jan. 27th, Four Stones, four (Club Outing; March 3rd, Maen Serth. nesting (RG); 24th, Uandrindod woods, young in nest, and 28th, Craig-yr-allt-Goch, eight seen (ROBG); March 31st, Glasbury, one (JM); April 29th, Cefndyrys, young in nest (TRA); May 6th, Uyn Cerrigllwdion Isaf, seven (ROBG); July 22nd, Rhiw Rhwstyn, eight, and Aug. 20th, AbeT Glan Birin, ten, and Nov. 25th, Glan Uyn, eight (ROBG).

280. CARRION CROW. The one bird too abundant, and an omniv­ orous predator.

282. ROOK. H. Rooks have suffered much from elm disease, and at Ivington MLB-T notes them transferring to oaks and alders. R. Jan. 17th, Four Stones, already very active at the rookery (Club Outing); April 18th, Cregina, a rookery of 50 nests (ARM).

283. JACKDAW. H. and R. Numbers have shrunk owing to lack of old trees for breeding, but still widespread.

284. MAGPIE. H. and R. Widely spread and fairly common, though less than formerly for lack of high hedges to nest in. At Colwall RL noted eight together in early March. Noted by ML as "very common" round Presteign and NW Herefordshire. 146 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

286. JAY. In 1972 observers on the continent noted migration of Jays eastwards. In 1972 their numbers here rose, and 1973 has maintained the rise. H. Reported, throughout the year, from Staplow (JP); Broomy HilI, where it had been unusual (WMG); ColwaII, at bird table (RL); Grafton (PGRB);BriIIey (WL-S); Madley (WAD also TRHO); Bredwardine (JM); Welsh Newton, regu­ larly (FMP); Ivington, regularly (MLB-T). R. Glan LIyn, eight on Jan. 13th, also at Dolymynach (ROBG); Ednol (Club Outing); CefnIIys, Glan LIyn and Tyn-y­ LIwyn (ROBG); Caban Coch, Doldowlod, Garreg ddu, (four), LIandrindod and Disserth (ROBG).

288. GREAT TIT. H. Jan. 5th, Madley, first song heard (TRHO); ColwaII, also heard in first week of Jan.; at least twelve at b:rd­ table, and "a great many" in March (RL). At Ivington winter numbers varied from six to 20 (MLB-T).

289. BLUE TIT. Flourishing. H. At LIangarron a pair nested in a 1972 Martin's nest (BY); at Ivington, up to 30 in winter (MLB-T). R. Aug. 19th, LIandrindod woods, c. 50, and Nov. 5th, Hind­ well, c. 35, and Dec. 16th, Glan LIyn, c.25 (ROBG).

290. COAL TIT. H. Feb. 28th, Hereford Wye, seen (PGRB); Bril­ ley, a regular pair of winter feeders (WL-S); Jan.-July, Welsh Newton, often seen (FMP); Ivington, seen daily, and a family party on Sept. 17th (MLB-T); Kingsland, a regular visitor to suet; and seen in Oaker wood (SHR). R. Jan. Bth, Glan LIyn, six; and two at Dolymynach, March 25th; Jan. 27th, Ednol, heard (Club Outing); Sept. 26th, Glan LIyn, eight; and Oct. 28th, Disserth eight; and Nov. 25th, LIan­ drindod' two; and Nov. 24th, Penybont, 18; and 25,th, Caban Coch, 17; and Dec. 15th, Disserth, four; and Dec. 16th, Glan LIyn, twelve (ROBG).

292. MARSH TIT. H. Jan. 1st, ColwaIl, at least eight (RL); Jan.­ March, three-four pairs around Swinmoor (TRHO); Feb. 5th, Welsh Newton, at bird-table, and young on July 9th (FMP); March, noted in Moccas Park and Haugh Wood (WAD); March 21st, Grafton, two (PGRB); July 10th Birley Gate, one (PMcD); Aug. 27th, Kington, feeding on thistles (JMB);Sept. 9th, Colwall, feeding on thistles (RL); Kingstone, returned to garden after many years (DAC); Kingsland, a regular visitor for suet (SHR). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 147

R. Jan. 27th, Four Stones, one (Club Outing); Feb. 24th, Llandrindod, one (ROBG); May 5th, Disserth, three (ROBG); July nth, Beguildy, nest with young (MR); Sept. 25th, Llandrin­ dod,

293. WILLOW TIT. H. Jan. 24th, Leintwardine, one (JLF); March 10th, Woolhope, a pair (CWW); 21st, Grafton, in song (PGRB); Bredwardine, present at bird-tahle all winter with other Tits (BCA); March 26th, Shobdon, in song, and present at More­ ton in March-April (AJS); April-May, Madley, a pair; also in Haugh Wood (WAD); April 15th, Bircher, noted at two points (Club Outing); July, Stoke Lacy, two family parties, and another at Birley Gate (PMcD), and two more families seen at WooI­ hope; Almeley, present (VMJ). R. Jan. 22nd, Bryngwyn, one (JLF); 27th, Four Stones, four (Club Outing); Feb. 24th, Dolymynach, one (ROBG); June 3rd, Penybont lake, seen (ROBG): July 25th, Beguildy, a family party (MR); Nov. 7th, Newohurch hill, one at 1,250 ft. (JLF); Dec. 15th, Llandrindod woods, one (ROBG).

294. WNG·TAILED TIT. H. and R. Presumably owing to a suc­ cession of mild winters this species has flourished, and must now be at its zenith. It appears to be common everywhere. Biggest numbers seen are-ten at Colwall (RL); twelve at Madley (TRHO); 20 at Ivington (MLB-T); 40 at Dutlas (MR); 16 at Llandrindod; and 28 at Glan Llyn (ROBG). The following note by JLF is of interest. "The Club's autumn counts in Haugh Wood have now run for 15 years. The counts for these 15 years are-22 - 78 - 73 ­ 26 - 27 - 48 - 64 - 28 - 50 - 11 - 30 - 24 - 21 - 47 - 170 (1973). The species, so vulnerable to hard weather, especially the icing of tree-bark and twigs, which cuts off the food supply, must surely be at a population peak."

296. NUTHATCH. Though timber and orchard felling has reduced its status, more records have come in than for some years. H. Jan. 28th, Canon Bridge, heard (TRHO); Feb. 19th, Iving­ ton, one (MLB-T); March 20th, Broomy Hill, present (WMG); March, Castle Green, one (PGRB); Brilley, winter feeding on nuts (WL-S); March-April, Moccas, common (WAD); June, Easthampton, feeding young (TRA); Aug. 29th, Colwall, two (RL); Nov. 9th, Warham, noted (BFG); Oct. 18th, Almeley, one (VMJ). 148 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNlTIIOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

R. Jan. 27th, Hindwell, two (Club Outing); March 24th, LIandrindod (ROBG); June 9th, LIandegley, party of six (RM); 21st, LIandrindod, two, and one at Tyn-y-lIwyn (ROBG); Sept. 26th, Glan LIyn, two, also on Dec. 16th (ROBG); Oct. 27th, Cefnllys, one; and Crossgates, one on Nov. 24th; and Disserth, one on Nov. 25th (ROBG).

298. TREECREEPER. H. Jan.-April, seen at times (JM); Feb. 17th, Swinmoor, one, and one working telegraph poles, April 4th (TRHO); March 20th, Broomy Hill, one (WMG); 21st, Grafton, in song (PGRB); March-April, Moccas, common, and has visited garden in Madley (WAD); Jan.-April, noted a,t SuUon, Wessing­ ton and Kinnerton (ARM); April 2nd, Kingsland, seen (SHR); April-May, Shobdon, often seen by pool (RM); Brilley, seen at times (WL-S); May 2nd, LIanciIIo, a pair, and a family party at Lyepole, June 7th (TRHO); July 23rd, Ivington, a family party (MLB-T); Kingstone, a regular visitor to apple tree and noted in nearby copse (DAC). Dec. 24th, Shobdon~ one or two mixed with Tits (ML). R. Jan. 13th, Glan Uyn, one (ROBG), and a pair March 3rd (EG); Jan. 27th, Four Stones, one (Club Outing); June 23rd, Cefnllys, one, and at Glan LIyn, two, feeding three young on June 24th (ROBG); Aug. 19th, Uandrindod, one, and one at Tyn-y­ Uwyn, July 22nd (ROBG), and four at Glan Uyn, Sept. 26th (ROBG).

299. WREN. H. and R. Plentiful after a series of easy winters. At Huntington Court, five nests (Mrs. Jack). At Almeley two pairs nested in 1972-buiIt in Swallow's nest (VMJ). At Uandrindod sewage works 16 were seen on Dec. 15th (ROBG).

300. DIPPER. H. and R. Status up to average on all running water, from the Wye to the small mountain brooks.

301. MISTLE THRUSH. H. Jan. 5th, Hereford, in song, and six by Wye on March 7th (PGRB); Jan. 20th, Colwall, eating mistle­ toe berries (RL); March, LIancillo, 16 (TRHO); Brilley, only once heard (WL-S); April 2nd, Easthampton, two nests within 50 yards; much squabbling (TRA); July 14th, OIchon, 20 in roost (BEM); Aug. Ist-3rd, Hampton Bishop, 45 on dead elms or nearby meadow (JLF); LIancloudy, c.50 (HD); 29th, Eywood, c. 30 (JLF); Sept. 18th, Easthampton, 50+ (TRA); Nov., Alme- ley, feeding on mistletoe (VMJ). ( R. Jan. 27th, Ednol, in song (Club Outing); Sept. 25vh, LIan­ drindod eleven, and LIanyre, 14 (ROBG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 149

302. FIELDFARE. H. Both late-winter flocks and autumn arrivals were plentiful and spread everywhere. There are few records of their mixing with Redwings. Large numbers seen were-Jan. 24th, Castleton, 200-300, and 150 at Sutton (ARM); April 7th, Norton Canon, c. 400 (AS). The latest observed north-bound birds were at Madley, May 1st (WAD). The first arrivals for autumn were some ten over Ivington on the surprisingly early date of Aug. 19th and 40 on 27th (MLB-T). R. Biggest numbers were-Jan. 27th, Four Stones, c.550 (Club Outing); Feb. 10th, Llanyre, c.600, and Feb. 24th, Hind­ well, c.600 (ROBO).

303. SONG THRUSH.

304. REDWlNG. H. and R. Muoh fewer records and much smaller numbers than for Fieldfares, though well spread. March 3rd and 4th, Moreton, they suddenly became more numerous, c. 50, suggesting migration. The last seen were two at Madley, April 15th (WAD). The first autumn arrivals were travellers, listened to at Moreton on Oct. 2nd and seen on 3rd (AJS), and Oct. 12th, Kingsland, 60 (SHR). R. The biggest number recorded is c. 50 at Cefnllys on Oct. 27th, and 50 at Llandegley, Dec. 15th (ROBG).

307. RING OUSEL. H. May 20th, Olchon valley, in song (ARM). R. March 23rd, Painscastle, three cocks (JLF); April 1st, Llanbedr, two/three (ARM); 20th, Black Mixen, one cock (ML); May 13th, Bailey Dingle, present (TRA); July 15th, Llan Bwch llyn, one (WAD); 21st, Beacon Hill, one moulting (JLF); Aug. 20th, Olan Llyn, two in rocks (ROBO).

308. BLACKBIRD. H. Jan. 5th, Hereford (St. Peter's Square), first song (CWW). R. Llandrindod, 21 on school playing field, Dec. 15th (ROBO).

311. WHEATEAR. H. March 22nd, Breinton, one (ARM); April 9th, Lulham, three near Wye (WAD; April-May, Craswall, pres­ ent (WAD); April 5th, Madley, one (WAD); Aug. 12th, Black Darren, one, and family party on 23rd (BEM); ARM notes the bird at Breinton; Aug. 28th, Shobdon airfield, a few present (ML); Sepl. 9th, Llangarron, a pair (EY). 150 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

R. March 2xd, Painscastle, a pair (JLF); April 12tJh, Gwaun­ ceste Hill, one (AS); 14th, Rhayader, noted (EEG); 17th, Claer­ wen, two (RHB & CWW); ML records single birds in Elan Valley in April, June and July. July 22nd, Rhiw Rhwstyn, two (ROBG); Aug. lIth, G1adestry, several (RDG); Aug. 19th, Uan­ drindod, two, and Aber Glan Hirin, four on 20th (ROBG); Aug. 2$th, Cahan Coch, one (MR). ARM records the bird at Craig­ yr-allt-Goch, Llan Bwch lIyn, Uyn Hilyn and Glascwm.

317. STONECHAT. H. May 4th, one female on Lugg bank (CWW); act. 4th, Byton, a cock in fine plumage (E. Marsh). R. June, Bailey Dingle, one (TRA); act. 30th, Black Hill, one (RL).

3]8. WHINCHAT. H. Titley, two pairs bred in fir plantation (RLV); May 4th, Holme Lacy, one by the Wye (JLF); July 1st, Shobdon, feeding young (TRA); July 14th, Olchon valley, two (BEM). R. April 28th, Beguildy, three (M. Roote); May 1st, Uyn Hilyn, one (ARM); May 13th, numerous at Bailey Dingle (TRA); July, Knighton area, particularly frequent this year (RM); July 7th, Painscastle-Uowes, c.20 seen (WAD); Aug. 19th, Llandrin­ dod, one and four at Rhiw Rhwstyn on July 2nd (ROBG).

320. REDSTART. The species has declined, owing perhaps to loss of orohards or to migration misfortunes but seems to hang on along the river valleys. H. April-June, Shobdon, two cocks noted on occasions (RM); April 17th, Eywood, noted (EEG); 20th, Titley, noted (RLV); 29th, Moccas, and six or seven there on May 27th (WAD); May, Ivington, two cocks singing (MLB-T); May-June, Clodock, a pair bred; at Lyepole three cocks singing, and at Aymestrey, one; none noted up the Olchon (TRHO); May 19th, Bredwa'rdine, one (BCA); June 1st, Bush Bank, singing (WHDW); July 10th, Bir­ ley Gate, several young birds (PMcD); 19th, Marcle hill, a hen carrying food (PMcD); Aug. 23rd, Black Darren, one (BEM). ARM notes the bird at Tilley, Garnons, Olchon valley, Shobdon, Dinmore, Holly Bush, HoIme Lacy and Shelwick. R. April 28th, Beguildy, a pair (M. Roote); June 24th, Glan Uyn, feeding young (ROBG); July 22nd, Uyn Hilyn, one (ROBG); July, Knighton area, less f'requent but not scarce (MR); Aug. 11th, Gladestry, a family (RDG). ARM notes the bird at Uyn Hilyn and Glascwm. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 151

321. BLACK REDSTART. H. March 16th, LIanwarne, one cock on a heap of chicken litter (H. Kent per JLF); March 20th, Lucton Sohool, a bird first seen by a master and later watched by TRA.

322. NIGHTINGALE. H. May 1st, Great Doward, singing (MPW); May 21st, Staplow-Bosbury, noted, and still singing May 31st (TG).

325. ROBIN. H. Jan. 12th, Hereford, one singing at 9.30 p.m. for 20 minutes (RG); Aug. 8th, Stoke Lacy, first autumn song (PMcD). R. Dec. 15th, Llandrindod sewage works, 14 (ROBG).

327. GRASSHOPPER WARBLER. H. April 26th, Haugh Wood, noted (WAD); May 20th, Haugh Wood, north side, two (BEM); June, Shobdon airfield, at least six singing, having moved to a wheat field on destruction of their customary overgrown fences (TRA); July 12th, Moreton wood, near BirIey Gate, birds singing late in evening in this wood which was felled and replanted 6 years ago (PMcD). ARM notes the bird at Haugh Wood, Nupend, Backbury and Shobdon. R. A pair at Rhosgoch and another at Dol-y-cannau (P. J. Chadwick).

333. REED WARBLER. H. May 5th, Shobdon, arrived and num­ bers average (TRA); 15th. six in song (ARM).

337. SEDGE WARBLER. H. May 5th, Byton bog, present (TRA); June 22nd, Moccas Park, one (WAD); Hereford-Moreton, absent from two previous breeding sites (AJS). R. May 20th, numerous at Rhosgoch bog (TRA). (This species is at a low ebb; reason uncertain; drought may have reduced breeding places, or its places of sojourn on migra­ tion.-Ed.).

343. BLACKCAP. H. Jan. 13th, Hereford, one male feeding on fat (WHM); 14th, Bromyard Downs, a male caught and ringed (DGB); 14th, Moreton, a male taking pyracantha berries, in plump condition (AJS); Feb. 3rd, Kingsland, female at basket (SHR); March 5th, Hereford, a hen feeding at table (Mrs. PGB); 21st, Grafton, in song (PGRB); April 15th, Fownhope, in song (KAM); April 17th, heard at Shobdon, and Warham on 19th 152 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIlOLOGlCAL ItEPORT, 1973

(ARM); 20th, Haugh Wood, noted (WAD); 24th, Shobdon, noted, and in Mowley Wood, May 2nd (EEG); 24th, Ivington, first beard (MLB-T); 28th, Kinglon, noted (JMB); May 2nd, Belmont, three singing (PGRB); May 20th, Hereford, singing (RG); June, Huntington Court, nest with eggs (Mrs. Jack); June 5th, St. Wulstans, noted (FMP); 6th, Haugh Wood, two (BEM); Moreton, AJS notes "a good year for this species in this area"; first song April 3rd. R. July 22nd, Sadwem Bridge, one (ROBG).

)46. GARDEN WARBLER. H. May 2nd, Mowley Wood, noted (EEG), and singing at Belmont (PGRB); 4th, Kington, noted (JMB); May 71th, Eywood, noted (RLV); May-June, Haugh Wood and Dorstone Hill (WAD); June 17th, Kinsham, a pair (ML); June, Haugh Wood, three (BEM); Aug. 18th-20th, Kings­ land, in garden (SHR). R. June 23r<1, CefnlIys, two, and one at Glan Uyn, 24th (ROBG); July 22nd, Bryn...sadwem bridge, two and one at Tyn-y· LIwyn (ROBG).

347. WHIIEI1fROAT. Whitetbroats do not seem to have recovered very much from their eollapse of four years ago, and are at a low ebb. H. May 1st, Lulham Wye, first seen (WAD); 3rd, Kingsland, present (JEM); 4th, Kington (JMB); 15th, Ivington, first heard (MLB-T); 16th, Haugh Wood, noted, and three on June 6th (BEM); June 27th, Sutton hill, one, and three on July 1st (BEM); July 12th, Birley Gate, three singing (PMcD); Hereford Wye, AJS notes the bird completely absent from breeding area, and at Moreton no song heard for the first time in eight years. Around Leintwardine MB notes only one seen. ARM however £ecords the bird from TitIey, Gamons, Backbury, Netherwood, Holly Bush and Holme Lacy. R. June 23rd, Cefnllys, one (ROBG); July, Knighton area, about average as compared with 1971 and 1972 (MR); Aug. 19th, Llandrindod, two (ROBG); ARM also records it from Uyn Hilyn.

348. LESSER WHITETIlROAT. H. May 2nd, Holmer, in song (KAM); 9th, Bush Bank, a pair in the garden (WHDW); 22nd, Ivington, first heard, a month late (MLB-n; June 10th, Aeon­ bury, singing (WAD); July 28th-29th, a noisy bird in garden, probably bred (AJS); Sept. 2nd, Madley, two, probably migrat­ ing (WAD). HEREFO:RDSWRE ORNlTIlOLOGICAL 'REPORT, 1973 153

354. WILLOW WARBLER. Numbers have been up to average. H. April 4th, first recording at Moccas, and numerous by 17th (WAD); 9th, Hereford, singing (AJS); 15th, Bircher to Fishpools valley, three heard (Club Outing); 15th, Fownhope, noted (KAM); 17th, Shobdon, five or six (ARM); 18th, Eywood, noted (RLV); 19th, Haugh Wood, several (BEM); Aug. lOth, middle Wye Valley, a considerable influx, mostly moved on by next day (JLF). R. April 17th, HindweIl, singing (RHB); May 5th, LIyn Hilyn, two; Bryn Sadwern, five; Builth-Aberedw road very numerous (ROBG); 6th, Glan LIyn, one, and Pencerrig, two (ROBG); Sept. 25th, Llandrindod, two (ROBG).

356. CHIFFCHAFF. Numbers up to scratch. H. First recorded March 23rd, Sutton, two singing (ARM); and Welsh Newton (FMP); March 25th, Lulham Wye (WAD); Haugh Wood, feeble song (PGB); 27th, Hereford, a pair in court­ ship (CWW); 29th, Broomy Hill, singing (WMG); LyepoIe, sing­ ing (TRHO). From April 1st records become numerous. The last records are at Hillside, He.eford, Sept. 27th (PGRB) and Almeley, Sept. 30th (VMJ).

357. WOOD WARBLER. H. May 1st, Kington, noted (JMB); 6th, Haugh Wood, three, and Moccas, two/three during May (WAD); 10th, Shobdon, noted, and several in song on 27th (TRA); 18th, Lyepole, four singing, and two at Aymestrey on June 7th ([RHO), and one at Longtown on 9th; May 24th, Bush Bank, first heard (WHDW). Noted by ARM at Gamons, Dinmore, Olchon valley, Dinedor and Lyepole. June 3rd, Shobdon, one singing (ML). R. May 15th, Presteign, noted (EEG); and LIandrindod, one (ROBG), and one at Glan Uyn, June 24th; June 6th, Gladestry, a pair (RDG); Aug. 19th, LIandrindod, two (ROBG).

364. GOLDCREST. H. and R. Reports are too many to give in detail, and extend from Jan. to Dec. The species flourishes thanks to easy winters and conifer planting. At Lyonshall a pair were feeding young on June 10th (RH). At Ivington a brood flew on July 29th (MLB-T). The birds are observed not only in conifers but in oak, wych-elm, sycamore and alder. 154 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

366. SPOTTED FLYCATCHER. H. May 4th,first record at Kington (JMB); 5th, near Rood (RLV); 7th, EywoOO, present (EEG); 7th, Almeley Wooton, and a pair successfully bred (VMJ); 13th, Hereford Wye (PGRB); 14th, Bush Bank, arrived, and reared two young (WHDW); 21st, Weobley, first noted (MLB-T), and Ivington; 24th, Lyonshall, one flew into the house, and was feeding young on June 10th (RH); June, Huntington Court, three pairs (Mrs. Jack); July 11th, Staplow, two pairs reared young, and busy with second broods (JP); LIancIoudy, nested against cottage in exactly the same spot ,three years run- ning (HD). . R. May 20th, Rhosgoch, noted (TRA); 28th, Pen-Ithon Hall, three (ROBG); July, Knighton area, scarce (MR); July 22nd, Tyn-y-llwyn, two (ROBG); Aug. 19th, LIandrindOO, one (ROBG).

368. PIED FLYCATCHER. H. April 27th, Moccas, a cock (WAD); May, Yatton, two pairs nested successfully (SHR); May 4th, Brobury, one in song (ARM); 15th, Bush Bank, first song; the pair occupied a box and reared four young (WHDW); May 28th, Kinsham, one Male (ML); May 30th, Berrington Hall, song noted, for the first time (Lord Cawley); June 2nd, Longtown, a male on the Olchon, and a pair bred in a nest-box at Clodock (TRHO). ,. R. May 3rd, Presteign, present (EEG), and four in Mowley Wood on May 2nd; June 9th, Beacon HilI, two pairs, and a pair at Dutlas on June 3rd (MR); June 24th, Glan Uyn, a cock, and two at Uandrindod on 21st (ROBG).

371. HEDGE SPARROW.

373. MEADOW PIPIT. H. March, Hereford a,rea, singles noted on 19th and 21st (PGRB); March 20th, Warham, 32 flying west (ARM); April 15th, Bircher Common, c. 30 (Club Outing). R. Jan. 22nd, Newchurch, c.20 feeding in roots at 1,000 ft. (JLF); Jan. 27th, Black Mixen, eight (Club Outing).

376. TREE PIPIT. H. April 15th, Bircher Common, singing (Club Outing); 18th, Haugh Wood, three (WAD); 25th, Dinmore, noted (BEM); 27th, Kington, noted (JMB); 28th, LIancilIo, singing (TRHO) and later at Lyepole; May 10th, Welsh Newton (FMP); noted by ARM at THley, Garnons, Dinmore, Backbury and Holly Bush. R. April 12th, Gwaunceste hilI, singing (AS); 28th, Knighton, "fairly numerous" (M. Roote); June 3rd, Uyn HiIyn, one (ROBG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 155

379. ROCK PIPIT. R. April 17th, Claerwen, one very tame bird (RHB& CWW).

380(a). PIED WAGTAH... Widely but thinly distributed throughout both Counties. H. June, Kingsland, seven juveniles (SHR); Dec. 29th, Fown­ hope Wye, 100+ at roost (KAM).

380(b). WHITE WAGTAIL.

381. GREY WAGTAIL. H. and R. This insectivorous and non­ migratory bird is another which has benefited from mild winters. Records are too many to give in detail. They cover not only every stream, from the Wye to the smaller brooks, but occur several times in places where there is no .running water at all. On the Lugg TRHO records three pairs, at half-mile intervals, at Lyepole, and again on the L1anciIlo Monnow three pairs at similar intervals; and on June 15th young birds up the Olchon, where it had not been seen for 20 years. Successful breeding was recorded at L1anciIlo, Pen Ithon Hall, Goodrich, Lyepole, Iving­ ton and Hereford Wye. First winter song on Hen;ford Wye, Sept. 17th (AJS).

382(a). YELLOW WAGTAIL. This migratory Wagtail has declined. H. April 10th, Shobdon airfield, numbers normal (TRA); 13th, Hereford, first seen; an influx April 17th-20th; a poor breeding season. Parties of passage birds, up to a dozen, crossed Mareton on Aug. 18th (AJS); April 19th, Hereford Wye, party of 10 (ARM); 20th, Bredwardine, "Fairly common" (WAD); May 1st, Collington, Bromyard, two (TRHO), and bred at L1anciIlo; May 29th, Ivington, two pairs (WHDW); June 3rd, Westhope, nesting (WHDW). Lulham, absent this year (TRHO); Aug. 18th, Kingsland, a pair (SHR). Wye area 3 miles S.B. of Hereford, JLF reports a notable fall. Comparative recent figures are- Year April May June July August 1971 8 30 31 52 18 1972 4 16 40 37 40 1973 4 8 12 20 3 There was little change in farming pattern in 1971 and 1972, but in 1973 some increase in potatoes and reduction of cereals in favour of grass. Aug. 27th, Shobdon, last seen (TRA), and ML records small numbers there on 28th. Sept. 20th, Hereford, a flock of 20 (RG); Oct. 21st, Almeley, seen on wires (VMJ). 156 HEREFORDSHIRE ORN1TI{OLOOlCAL REPORT, 1973

384. GREAT GREY SHRIKE. H. Warham afta, Nov. 18th, onc bird well viewed in a small woodland (BFO). R. April 25th, Uanbister,one well seen by Dr. C. A. ParsoIUl (per BFO).

388. RED-BACKED SHRIKE. H. May 28th, Roes, a pair seen near Keme Bridge Hotel (RL).

389. STARLING. H. Ivington, scarce early in the year; a huge flock of several thousands iD! December (MLB-T).

391. HAWFINCH. H. May 20th, Aconbury, one briefly but well seen, perched and in flight (ARM); Walford, one seen in the garden over 1971 and 1972 (E. J. West per CWW).

392. GREENFINCH. H. March, lvington, 14 feeding (MLB-T); Kingsland, "very common", and eats peanuts (SHR). R. Jan. 27th, Four Stones area, c. 100 (Club Outing).

393. GOLDFINCH. H. Feb. and thereafter, seen several times at Colwall (RL); Feb. 10th, 35 on stubble (JLF); Feb. 24th, Haugh Wood, four (BEM); March 7th, Welsh Newton, "in garden" (FMP); May 4th, Portway, a party (WLoS); May-Nov., up to four recorded near Belmont frequently (PGRB); Oct. 24th, Uan­ cloudy, c.15 (HD); 28th, Broadmoor, c.50 on thistles (JLF); Nov. 15th, Swinmoor, six (TRHO); Dec. 2nd, Castleton, c.50 (Club Outing); Kingsland, seen regularly and eats dandelion seeds (SHR).

394. SISKIN. H. Jan. 1st, Colwall, two with Redpolls (RL); 4th, Hereford Wye, 23 +, and Preston, two/three on March 17th, and Haugh Wood, three on April 26th (WAD); Jan. 14th, Hole-in­ the-Wall, c.4O, plus c.20 in alders (AJS); 24th, Burrington, c. 150 in alders (JLF); 28th, Wigmore, 12 in larch; and Eywood, c. 60 on Feb. 3rd (ARM); Feb. 12th, Canon Bridge, nine on Wye and five in Madley (TRHO); 14th, Pentaloe, 30 (BEM); 26th, Ledbury, one at a feeder (WBB); March 6th, Shelwick, three (ARM); April 15th, Fishpools valley, sizeable party (Club Out­ ing); Oct. 6th, Tillington, three in flight (BMK). R. Nov. 20th, Disserth, two (ROBG). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOOICAL REPORT, 1973 151

395. LINNET. H. Feb. 15th, Hereford, first appeared after winter absence (AJS); April 7th, Colwall, c. 30 (RL); July, Stoke Lacy, parties of 40-60 birds (PMcD). R. Jan. 22nd, Newchurch. c.4oo in roots (JLF); 27th, Four Stones area, c.60 in roots (Club Outing).

397. REDPOLL H. Jan. 14th, Hole-in-the-Wall, two by Wye (AJS); 24th, Leintwardine, six in alders (JLF); Feb. 16th, Eywood, seen with Siskins (EEG); Feb., Colwall, two feeding on alpine willow-herb (RL); April 15th, Fishpools valley, c.20 (Club Out­ ing); May 14th, Titley, four in orchard (RLV). From the north of the County comes a first breeding record (VCL); see separate article.-Ed. R. P. J. Chadwick and P. G. Farmer supply the following interesting record (exact dates not given)-four pairs at Rhos­ goch, four at Bryngwyn, three at Glasnant and four at Glascwm. Seven occupied nests were found and one being built.

401. BULLFINCH. Hand R. Irregular in its appearances, but widespread and fairly common. At Kingsland SHR records them eating honesty seeds.

404. CROSSBILL H. Jan. 1st, Kington, a party of ten flying over, and seven feeding at Hergest, Feb. 13th (JMB); Jan. 28tlh, Wig­ more Rolls, c. 30 in larch (ARM); March 4th, Croft woods, c. 25 (EEG); March 25th, Haugh Wood, a pair (PGB); April 15th, Fishpools valley, c. 12 (Club Outing); April 18th, Haugh Wood, 21 + (WAD); May 5th, Haugh Wood, seven and 20 (Club Out­ ing); May 28th, Ross, 15-20 feeding (RL).

407. CHAFFINCH. H. Feb. 8th, Hereford, first song (PGRB); Feb. 13th, Madley, first song, within 3 feet of observer's boots, as thanks for food (TRHO). R. Feb. 11th, Elan Valley Hotel area, c. 200 in roots (ROBG).

408. BRAMBLING. H. Feb. 5th, Hereford, c. 35 with Chaffinch and Greenfinches (HGC, WGK and WHM); March 6th, How Caple, one male (WAD); 17th, Welsh Newton, a headless bird found (FMP); Oct. 2S,th, BosbuTY, noted among mixed finches (SGM), and 30th, Castle Frome, a second party. 158 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

R. Jan. 22nd, Newchurch, 24 feeding in roots (ILF); 27th, Four Stones, six (Club Outing); Feb., Elan Valley Hotel, two (ROBG); Feb. 23rd, Dolau, 24 on stubble (ILF); 26th, Presteign, noted (EEG); Nov. 7th, Newchurch, c. 35, and Bryngwyn, c. 60, some eating ash seed (ILF); Dec. 5th, Clyro, four on stubble (ILF).

409. YELWW-HAMMER. H. Jan. 25th, Shelwick, flock of 24 (ARM); April 3rd, MadIey, c. 30 (TRHO).

410. CORN BUNTING. H. Feb. 9th, King's Acre, one or two in song (ARM); April 5th and 25th, heard singing (KAM); July 1st, Madley, singing from airfield telegraph wires (WAD).

421. REED BUNTING. H. March 22n<1, Hereford Wye, one (PGRB); March-May, Moceas pool, noted, and one/two pairs on Madley airfield (WAD). R. Feb. 24th, LIandrindod, one; and Uyn Hilyn, ,three on March 24~h; and Craig-yr-allt-Goch, one on March 25th (ROBG); May 6th, Glan Llyn, one, and nest with 5 eggs at Moel­ ienydd, May 28th (ROBG); June 3rd, Llanwefr, one, and Oct. 6th, Llyn Hilyn, two (ROBG). P. J. Chadwick also records seeing nine pairs, and two nests, at Rbosg·och.

424. HOUSE SPARROW.

425. TREE SPARROW. H. Feb. 16th, Vowchurch, c. 40 on stubble (ILF); Feb. 20th, Colwall, c.80 (RL); March, Ivington, twelve on lawn (MLB-T); late March, Sutton up to 16 (ARM). R. Jan. 17th, Four Stones, c.50 in roots (JLF), and 27th, c. 15 (Club Outing).

ADDENDA FOR 1972

BEWICK'S SWAN. R. Dec. 23rd, 1972, Pwll Patti, eleven (JM). CANADA GOOSE. R. Feb. 22nd, 1972, Pwll Patti, eleven (JM). GOOSANDER. H. Nov. 22nd, 1972, Eywood, four (JM). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 159

REPORT EXCHANGES Bardsey Bird and Field Observatory. Brecknock County Naturalists' Trust, per Martin Preeee. Bristol Naturalists' Society, Ornithological Section, per P. J. Ohadwick, M.B.O.D. Derbyshire Ornithological Club. Essex Bird Watching and Preservation Society. Gower Ornithological Society. Hertfordshire Natural History Society and Field Club, Ornithological Section, per B. L. Sage, M.B.O.U. ble of Wight Ornithological Society. London Natural History Society. North Gloucestershire Naturalists' Society. Shropshire Ornithological Society. Trent Valley Bird-Watchers' Society. West Wales Naturalists' Trust.

NON·MEMBERS' KEY W. Bullough, Ty-Canol, Bryngwyn, Kington. Mrs. J. Burnell, Burcher Court, Titley, Kington. Lord Cawley, Berrington Hall, Leo­ minster. P. J. Chadwick, 3 Hill Burn, Henleaze, Bristol. N. R. Dove, Asst. Curator, Hereford Museums. Dr. H. Durant, Gorsty Cottage, The Hill, L1ancloudy, Hereford. R. D. Greig, Broken Bank, Gladestry. Richard Groves, 41 Wentloog Close, Rumney, Cardiff. Mrs. Jack, Huntington Court, Kington. R. Linstead, 22 Forest Road, Moseley, Birmingham. M. Lofthouse, 28 Clatterbrune Estate, Presteign. E. Marsh, Ireland House, Lucton School, Leominster. Graham Smith, 14 Saxon Avenue, Minster-in-Sheppey, Kent.

AFFILIATION SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR 1973 Council for Nature ... £2-00 British Trust for Ornithology 2-50 British Naturalists' Association 75 West Midland Bird Club 1-00 Royal Society for the Protection of Birds 4-00 Woolhope Naturalists' Field Club 1-50 Herefordshire and Radnorshire Nature Trust Ltd. 2-10 Herefordshire Community Council 53

£14-38 160 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNImOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT 11 months ended 30th November, 1973 1972 1973 £ p £ p £ p Income :- 5.35 Sale of Club Publications 4.20 Donations: R.S.P.B. 72.87 Sundry 10.92 5.23 83.79 28.71 Building Society Interest 18.46 302.05 Subscriptions 321.31 £341.34 £427.76

Deduct: Expenditure:­ 40.13 Printing and Stationery 42.21 105.00 Annual Report 128.15 59.36 Postage and Telephones 69.31 67.61 Meeting Expenses 30.56 14.13 Affiliation Subscriptions 14.38 18.00 Depreciation of Projector 18.00 36.89 Cost of Projector Stand 302.61 £341.12 0.22 Net Surplus for the eleven months 125.15 745.76 Add: Surplus at 1st January, 1973 745.98 £745.98 Accumulated Funds at 30th November, 1973 £871.13 Accumulated Funds at 30th November, 1973, represented by :- 36.00 Projector at cost less amounts written off ... 18.00 611.41 Deposit with Abbey Natiinal Building Society 629.87 98.57 Cash at Bank less 1974 subscriptions received in advance 223.26 £745.98 £871.13

B. C. ALLAN, Hon. Treasurer.

I have audited the above Accounts and in my opinion they show a true and fair view of the Surplus for the 11 months ended 30th November, 1973, and of the Club's assets at 30th November, 1973. T. DAVIES, Chartered Accountant.

6th January, 1974. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 161

LIST OF MEMBERS

List of members at 31 st December, 1973 An asterisk denotes Junior Member ADDIS, R. P., L1ancillo Hall, Abergavenny. ADDIS, Mrs. R. P., L1ancillo Hall, Abergavenny. ALLAN. B. C.• The Old Vicarage, Bredwardine, Herefordshire. AMMONDS, T. R.• Easthamoton Farm. Shobdon, Herefordshire. *ASHFORD P.. 157. Kin~s Acre Road. Hereford. ASOUITH, M. C.. 89. Colle~e Road, Hereford. ASQUITH. Mrs., 89, College Road, Hereford.

BAILLlE. R. H., Wvche House. Kin~ton, Herefordshire. BAILLlE, Mrs. C. G. G.. Wvche House, Kington, Herefordshire. BAILY, Ladv K. N., Brinsop Court, Hereford. *BA1LY, Patrirk. Brinsop Court, Hereford. BALL, E., Fairfield. Lower Breinton, Hereford. BALL, Mrs. C., Fairfield, Lower Breinton. Hereford. BALL Mi~s M., Chafeyn Cotta~e, Breinton, Hereford. *BALLARD. Miss Sarah. Olrl Country Farm, Mathon, Nr. Malvern. BARBER. M'ss E. G., The Fish, Hopesay, Craven Arms. Saloo. BARBIER, P. G. R., 31, Hillside, Mavherry Avenue, Hereford. BARD EL, Mrs. M., 2, Her~est Road, Kington, Herefordshire. BAR"lFS. D. I., 7, Alice Close, Hereford. BARNETT, Mrs. E., Long Lane, Overbury Road, Hereford. BARRETT. Miss K. M., Ridgebank House. Hergest Road. Kington. BARTON, E. A. Green Hills, Blakemere, Hereford. BARTON, Mrs. Green Hills, Blakemere, Hereford. BASON, T. H., 23, Ranelagh Street, Hereford. BATE, Mrs. M., 7, Ox House Cottages, Shobdon, Herefordshire. BAXTER, Mrs. M. B., Welgarth, Nunnington, Hereford. BAYLlSS, Miss B. N., 61, Chartwell Road, Hereford. BEACH, Mrs. M., 13, Church Croft, Madley, Hereford. BEDDING, A. H., 21, Penngrove Road, Hereford. BEDDING, Mrs., 21, Penngrove Road, Hereford. BENNETT, Mrs. D. E. M., Down Ampney, Horse Lane Orchard, Ledbury, Herefordshire. BENNETT, O. S., Lingmell, Milway, Sutton St., Nicholas, Hereford. BENNETT, Mrs. C., Lingmell, Milway, Sutton St., Nicholas, Hereford. BENNETT. Stephen, Lingmell, Milway, Sutton St., Nicholas, Hereford. BENTLEY-TAYLOR, J. M., The Hyde, Ivington, Leominster, Heref()(dshire. BENTLEY-TAYLOR, Mrs. M. L., The Hyde, Ivington, Leominster, Hfds. BEST, J. W., M.B.E., Lawton Hall, Nr. Leominster. BEST, Mrs. M. E., Lawton Hall, Nr. Leominster. BISHOP, Miss D. M. W., Greenacres, Tillington, Hereford. BLOWER, E. C., clo Vaughan & Davies, Solicitors, Duke Street, Kington, Herefordshire. BODDINGTON, Dr. D. G., Down House, Bromyard, Herefordshire. BODDINGTON, Mrs., Down House, Bromyard, Herefordshire. BOND, A. E., Moor Cottage, Widemarsh Common, Hereford. BOND, Mrs. V. D., Moor Cottage, Widemarsh Common, Hereford. BOSSOM, Sir Clive, Bart., Parsons Orchard, Eastnor, Ledbury, Herefordshire. BRADLEY, F. H., Litfield Bank, Lyonshall, Kington, Herefordshire. 162 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

BRADLEY. P. G.• 59, Wlhitehorse Street. Whitecross, Hereford. BRADLEY. Mrs., 59, Whitehorse Street, Whitecross. Hereford. BRADLEY, Miss W. E.• Castorbridge, Knapp Lane, Ledbury, Hfds. BRADSHAW. R. H., New Inn, Brilley, Whitney-on-Wye. Herefordshire. *BRADSHAW, Miss Judith, New Inn. Brilley. Whitney-on-Wye, Hfds. BRECKNELL, 10, Manor Road, Dorchester, Dorset. BRIGHT, G. W .• Drumore, Leominster, Herefordshire. BRIGHT, Mrs., Drumore, Leominster, Herefordshire. BRITTON, Miss L. B.• 21. Elgar Avenue, Hampton Park, Hereford. BROMLEY. F. 5.• The Garth. Kington, Herefordshire. BROMLEY, Mrs. J. M., The Garth. Kington. Herefordshire. *BROMLEY, Jonathon, The Garth. Kington, Herefordshire. BROOKES, Miss P., The Paddock, Lucton Lane, Kingsland, Leominster. BROWN, Miss M. V., Highfield, Bank Crescent, Ledbury, Hfds. BROWN, Miss W. B., Highfield, Bank Crescent, Ledbury, Hfds. BROWNING, T. N. R., Croft Cottage, Fownhope, Hereford. BROWNING, Mrs. M. D. E.• Croft Cottage, Fownhope, Hereford. BUCHANAN, Mrs. M., The Ovals, Kington, Herefordshire. BULMER, H. H., Longmeadow, Breinton, Hereford. BUTCHER, B., 177, Upper Ledbury Road, Hereford.

CALlGAR I, C. D. 5., 13, Nevinson Drive, Hampton Dene, Hereford. CARTWRIGHT. A. D., 78, Park Street, Hereford. CARTWRIGHT, W. G., 89, Newtown Road, Hereford. CAVILL, Mrs. M. W. B., The Corner Shop, I, New Street, Ross-on-Wye. Herefordshire. CAWLEY, Vivienne Lady, Berrington Hall, Leominster, Herefordshire. CHANDLER, Dr. D. A., Bryn-Tyrion, Kingstone, Herefordshire. CHESSHIRE, c., Milebrook, Knighton, Radnorshire. CLARK, Dr. P. B., The Old Manor House, L1anwarne, Hereford. CLARK, Mrs. A. E., The Old Manor House, L1anwarne, Hereford. CLARKE, C. F., Stone House, Tillington. Hereford. CLARKE, Mrs. E. M., Stone House, Tillington, Hereford. CLARKE, R. E., 42, Mount Crescent, Tupsley, Hereford. CLARKE, Mrs., 42, Mount Crescent, Tupsley, Hereford. CLERY, M. J., Martyrs Fabric, Pentwyn Common, Kilpeck, Hereford. *CLERY, Master, Martyrs Fabric, Pentwyn Common, Kilpeck, Hereford. COBB, J. L. 5., Gatty Marine Laboratory, The University, St. Andrews, Fife. COLE, F. W., 1. Greenfield Road, Presteigne, Radnorshire. COLE, Mrs. L., 1. Greenfield Road, Presteigne, Radnorshire. COLLEY, J.• 19, Barton Road, Hereford. COLLlNS, M., Somerset Cottage, Much Birch, Herefordshire. CONIUM. Mrs. M. A., 68. Penn Grove Road, Hereford. CONNOP, J., Little Broome, Pembridge, Leominster, Herefordshire. COOKE, Mrs. B., 20, Loder Drive, Hereford. COOMBES, A. T., Skomer, 7, Leighton Close, Evercreech, Shepton Mallet, Somerset. COOM BES, Mrs. H. G., Skomer, 7, Leighton Close, Evercreech, Shepton Mallet, Somerset. COOPER, R. J., Moorcourt, Lyonshall, Kington, Herefordshire. COOPER, Mrs. D. M., Moorcourt, Lyonshall, Kington, Herefordshire. CORDERY, Miss E. M., 45, Barrs Court Road, Hereford. COTTON, Mrs. R. M., Tigstump, Cockyard, Wormbridge, Herefordshire COUND, Mrs. F. M., 52, Edde Cross Street, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. CROSS, J. B.• Rugden House. How Caple, Herefordshire. CROSS, Mrs., Rugden House, How Caple, Herefordshire. CULLAN, N., The Croft, Tarrington, Hereford. CUNDALE, G. C. Stanley Hill Farm, Ledbury, Herefordshire. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 163

DAVIDSON, W. A., 24, Church Croft, Madley, Hereford. DAVIES, A. L., M.C., Stansbatch House, Pembridge, Leominster. DAVIES, Mrs. B., Stansbatch House, Pembridge, Leominster. DAVIES, Miss D. A. L., Glenover, Hillcrest Drive, L1andrindod Wells. DAVIES, Miss E. P., Troy, 29, Breinton Road, Hereford. DAVIES, G. M., Orchard Dale, Madley, Hereford. DAVIES, Mrs. M., The Gaff, Foy, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire. DAVIES, T., Hunters M')on, Breinton, Hereford. DAVIES, Mrs., Hunters Moon, Breinton, Hereford. DAW, W. H., Middlefield, Wyatt Road, Cross Keys, Hereford. DAW, Mrs. D. W., Middlefield, Wyatt Road, Cross Keys, Hereford. DE GREY, Mrs. E. F., North Acre, Kingsland, Leominster, Herefordshire. DEWHURST, Miss K. M., 2, Baggallay Street, Hereford. DE WINTON, Mrs. J. P., Maesllwch Castle. Glasburv. Radnorshire. DIGGORY, G. S. T., Rockdene, Headbrook, Kington. DIGGORY, Mrs. A. Z., Rockdene, Headbrook, Kington. DOVE, N. R., c/o Hereford Museum, Broad Street, Hereford. DRYLAt'-lD, Mrs. B. D., Pholeea, Kington, Herefordshire. DUNNE. Miss S. G., J. P., The Knoll, Bircher. Leominster. DURANT, Dr. Henry, Gorsty Cottage. The Hill, L1ancloudy, Hereford.

EDWARDS, Miss E. M., Stokesay, 360, Upper Ledbury Road, Hereford. EDWARDS, Mrs. L. H., The Meadows, Preston Wynne. Hereford. EDWARDS. Miss M., Somerset Cottage, Little Marcle, Ledbury, Hfds. EDWARDS, 0., Bark Cottage, Fownhope, Hereford. ELSDEN, Leslie, The Firs, Orchard Lane. Leominster, Herefordshire. ENGLISH, Mrs. E. M.• High House, Peterstow, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. eVANS, B., c/o. Lynden Forest Nursery, Upton Bishop, Ross-on-Wye. EVANS, I. B., 12, Brockington Drive, Hereford. EVANS, Mrs., 12, Brockington Drive, Hereford. *EVANS. Master Jonathan, 12. Brockington Drive, Hereford. EVANS. P. M., Staunton House, Staunton-on-Arrow, Leominster. EVERSHED. Miss L. M., Hagley House. Ivington, Leominster.

FALKINER, Lt.Col. Sir Terence, Bart.• D. L., Kingsthorne House, Hereford. FENN. Dr. C. M., Meadow Way, L1anwrtyd Wells, Brecon. FISHER, Dr. H. W .• Redlands, Bartestree, Hereford. FLETCHER, H. P. N. W., 2, Biddulph Rise, Tupsley, Hereford. FORREST, J. E., 45, Raith Drive, Kirkcaldy. Fife. FOSTER, R. M., 14, Brookside, Tupsley, Hereford. FOX, F. W., Strangford, Pentaloe Close, Mordiford, Hereford. FOX, Mrs. J. E.• Strangford, Pentaloe Close, Mordiford. Hereford. FOX, J. L., 5, Folly Lane, Hereford. FOX, Mrs. J. V., 5. Folly Lane, Hereford. FRANC IS, E. W., 13. Baily Brook Road, Hereford. FRANC IS, Mrs., 13, Baily Brook Road, Hereford. FRANC IS, Mrs. F. R., Perryfields, Sollarshope, Hereford. FRIK. H., Rock Cottage, Lugwardine, Hereford. FYSHE, A. G., Hurstans, Sollarshope, Hereford. FYSHE, Mrs. G. J., Hurstans, Sollarshope, Hereford.

GALLlMORE, T., Woodleigh, Staplow, Ledbury, Herefordshire. GAMBLE. L. W., Jasmine Cottage, Ivington Road, Newtown, Leominster. GARDNER, P., Highlands, Wharton, Leominster. GARDNER, Mrs. J., Highlands, Wharton, Leominster. CARFITT, C. R.• 35, Hampton Dene Road, Tupsley, Hereford. CARFITT, Mrs. 35, Hampton Dene Road, Tupsley, Hereford. CARNETT, A T. G., Clyde House, 53, Edgar Street, Hereford. 164 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

GARNETT, Mrs. Clyde House, 53, Edgar Street, Hereford. GARNETT, Major R. O. B., Rowan Cottage, Dog Lane, Crieklev Hill, Glos. GASKELL, Mrs. D. J., Seabournes, Fawley Chapel, Hereford. GASKELL, R. W., Gillow Manor, Harewood End, Hereford. GASKELL, Mrs., Gillow Manor, Harewood End, Hereford. GEORGE, Miss P. E., Rose Villa, Aekhill, Presteigne, Rads. GIBBS, Miss K., April House, 43, Liehfield Avenue, Hereford. GIBBS, Miss M., April House, 43, Liehfield Avenue, Hereford. GIBSON, Miss W. M., Oke!eigh Cottage, 49, Broomy Hill, Hereford. GIBSON-WATT, Major J. D., M.C., M.P., Doldowlod, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. GILBERT. B. F., The Laurels, 3D, Tower Road, Broomy Hill, Hereford. GILBERT, Lt.-Col. E. R. F., Bishopstone, Hereford. GILBERT, Mrs., Bishopstone, Hereford. GILLAM, Miss M. A., Ill, Ledbury Road, Hereford. GILLETT, F. G., 8, Burwood Close, Hereford. GRANT, Dr. C. A., c/o Mrs. Buck, Pete Hall, Langenhoe, Colchester, Essex. GRANT-DUFF, Dr. L., The Prospect, Mueh Dewehurch, Hereford. GREEN, A. C., I, Carroll Avenue, Fayre Oaks, Hereford. GREEN, Miss M., 43, Alexandra Road, Malvern, Worcestershire. GREEN, oR. H., Cootes Close, Cerie Castle, Wareham, Dorset. GREIG, R. D., Broken Bank, Gladestry, Kington, Herefordshire. GREIG, Mrs., Broken Bank, Gladestry, Kington, Herefordshire. GRIFFITHS, C. N. I, Montpelier Flats, Temple Street, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. "'GRIFFITHS, D. G., Tyn-y-Coed, Abbey Cwmhir, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. "'GRIFFITHS, J. E., Tyn-y-Coed, Abbey Cwmhir, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. GRIFFITHS, John, 27, Badminton Gardens, Bath, Somerset. GRIFFITHS, John T. G., F.G.S., The Beeches, Broad Oak, Hereford. GROVE, Mrs. G. M., Stockley Oaks, Peterchurch, Hereford. GROVES, R. L., 41, Wentloog Close, Romney, Cardiff. GUEST, E., 35, Shenstone Avenue, Norton Estate, Stourbridge, Wores. GUTCH, Miss E. E., 11, Green End, Presteigne, Rads.

HADFIELD, G., Bulls Grove, Putley, Ledbury, Hfds. HADFIELD, Mrs. N., Bulls Grove, Putley, Ledbury, Hfds. HAKE, Miss F. E., Okeleigh Cottage, 49, Broomy Hill, Hereford. HANNYNGTON, Miss H. E., Haleswood, How Caple, Hereford. HARGEST, A. F., Nurses Home, Shelton Hospital, Shelton, Shrewsbury. HARRIS, T., 20, Baggallay Street, Whitecross, Hereford. HARRISSON, W. R. D., Lower Bumps, Edge, Stroud, Gloucestershire. HARTLAND, W. D., Markeaton, Munstone, Hereford. HARTLAND, Mrs. M. E., Markeaton, Munstone, Hereford. HEATH, J. C. M., Greensleeves, Whitchurch, Ross-on-Wye. HEATH, Mrs. M. Greensleeves, Whitchurch, Ross-on-Wye. HEATHCOTE, Mrs. A., 140, Tyglas Road, L1anishen, Cardiff. HELME, Dr. V. P., 3D, Gorsty Lane, Hereford. HERMON, F. R. C., 92, Old Eign Hill, Hereford. HERMON, Mrs. W. M., 92, Old Eign Hill, Hereford. HERRIDGE, A. D., Mews Cottage, Carey, Hereford. HERVEY-BATHURST, Major B. A. F., Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Hfds. HESTEN, A., 43, Brockhampton Drive, Tupsley, Hereford. HESTEN, Mrs., 43, Brockhampton Drive, Tupsley, Hereford. HIAM, D. R., Lower Rowley, Warden Road, Presteigne, Rads. HIAM, Mrs., Lower Rowley, Warden Road, Presteigne, Rads. HIGGINS, M. F., Tannachie, Harcourt Road, West Malvern, Worcs. HIGTON, K. A., Darren House, Ledbury Road, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. HILL, Lt. Col., T. J. B., Ash Cottage, Fownhope, Hereford. HILL, Mrs. J., Ash Cottage, Fownhope, Hereford. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 165

HINCHLlFFE, I. E. C., Newel Tryst, Shobdon, Leominster, Hfds. HINCHLlFFE, Mrs. A. B., Newel Tryst, Shobdon, Leominster, Hfds. HINDE, P. W., 14, Goldthorn Road, Wolverhampton, Staffs. HINDE, Mrs. M. G. A., 14, Goldthorn Road, Wolverhampton, Staffs. HOLFORD, Mf's. R., Spring Grove Cottages, Buckland Newton, Dorchester. HOLLAND, Lady Elizabeth, Dderw, Rhayader. Radno~hire. HORNE. Miss E. M., Upper Bridge Court, Brilley, Whitney-on-Wye. Hfds. HOWORTH, Lt. CoL, P. I., Hill House, Kingsthorne, Hereford. HOWORTH. Mrs. Hill House, Kingsthorne. Hereford. HUDSON, Miss R. A., Tellin, Lyonsha 11 , Kington, Herefordshire. HUGHES, Mrs., Farcroft, Lucton, Leominster, Herefordshire. HUGHES, H. V., Bella Paisa, Hillhampton Lane, Shobdon, Leominster. Herefordshire. HUNT, R., Whitmore House, Burghill, Hereford. HUSE, H., 8, Lower Thorn, Bromyard, Herefordshire. HUSE, Mrs., 8, Lower Thorn, Bromyard, Herefordshire. *HUTTON, Miss Myra, The Elms, Hampton Bishop, Hereford. HUTTON, Mrs. R. H. B., The Elms, Hampton Bishop, Hereford.

lACK, I. Logan, College Hall, Charterhouse Square, London E.C.l. lAMES, P. Cwynne., Highcroft, Breinton, Hereford. lAMES, Mrs., Highcroft, Breinton, Hereford. IE"lKINS, D. C., Tyngwndwn, Felinfach, Lampeter, Cardiganshire. IENKINS, Mrs. V. M., Lady Lift Villa, Almeley, Herefordshire. JOHN, Mrs. M. E., Monkland, Leominster, Herefordshire. IONES, B., clo Mr. Taylor, Citterdine, Mordiford, Hereford. IONES, Commander B. S., O.B.E., R.N., Moccas Court, Moccas, Hfds. IONES, C. F., 28, Caradoc Drive, Leominster, Herefordshire. IONES, Mrs., 28, Caradoc Drive, Leominster, Herefordshire. IONES, D. M., Bakhley, Bredenbury, Bromyard, Herefordshire. IONES, R. A., 18, Gorsty Lane, Hereford. IONES, R. c., Sylfaen, Ho1combe Drive, Howey, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. IONES, R. D., The Rise, Tillington, Hereford. IONES. Mrs., The Rise, Tillington, Hereford. IONES, Tudor I., L1andrindod Hall, L1andrindod Wells, Radnorshire.

KAULFUSS, E. A., Castlebury, Shenmore, Madley, Hereford. KAULFUSS. Mrs. Castlebury, Shenmore, Madley, Hereford. KAY, R., 28, Belmont Avenue, Hereford. KEARTON, Mrs. P., The Sherriffs, Lyonshall, Kington, Herefordshire. KEDWARD, L. M., Pen-y-Brynn, Green Crise, Hereford. KEMEYS, W. G., 45, Breinton Avenue, Hereford. KENDALL, I., 58, Walkers Green, Marden, Hereford. KEOWN-BOYD, Lady loan, M.B.E., 35/2, Mansfield Street, London Wl. KIDDLE, B. M., Green Trees, Court Drive, Tillington, Hereford. KIDDLE, Mrs. R. E., Greentrees, Court Drive, Hereford. KINGHAM, Mrs. H. I., 29, St. Bernard Road, Sutton Coldfield. Warwicks. KIRK, J. H., Dunhampton, Hatfield, Leominster, Herefordshire. KIRK, Mrs., Dunhampton, Hatfield, Leominster, Herefordshire. KNOTT, Coombe Farm, Leominster Road, Presteigne, Rads.

LAMBOURNE, G. C., The Cottage Farm, Ipsley, Nr. Redditch, Wores. LANCASTER, I. E., Highfields, L1anbadarn Fynydd, L1andrindod Wells, Radnorshire. LANE, I. P., Top Cottage, Little Common, Dorstone, Hereford. LANGDALE-SMITH, Dr. H. G., Orchard Hill, Tarrington, Hereford. LANGDALE-SMITH, M~. D. M., Orchard Hill, Tarrington, Hereford. LAWRENCE, Miss H. M., I. The Nook, Tupsley, Hereford. 166 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

LEE, P. H., O.B.E., Backbury House, Checkley, Herefordshire. LEE, Mrs. S., Backbury House, Checkley, Herefordshire. LEE, Miss W., 20, Baggallay Street, Whitecross, Hereford. LEMON, L. T., Grafton Cottage, Ross Road, Grafton, Hereford. LEMON, Mrs. Grafton Cottage, Ross Road, Grafton, Hereford. LEVICK, D. R., Barrow Leasowe, Bearwood, Pembridge, Leominster, Hfds. LEVICK, Mrs. M. P., Barrow Leasowe, Bearwood, Pembridge, Leominster. LEWIS, A. H., Fisheries Research, British Embassy, P.O. Box 393 ]eddah, Saudi Arabia. LEWIS, Mrs. K., Fisheries Research, British Embassy, P.O. Box 393, jeddah, Saudi Arabia. LEWIS, B., Hawks Nest, Wormesley, Hereford. LEWIS, Mrs., Hawks Nest, Wormesley, Hereford. LEWIS, Major C. j. L., Evancoyd, Presteigne, Radnorshire. LEWIS, Miss G. M., 7, Heaton Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham 15. LEWIS, Squadron Leader V. c., 2, Holly Mount, Pierrepoint Road, Leomin-ster, Herefordshire. LEWIS, Mrs. O. K., 2, Holly Mount, Pierrepoint Road, Leominster, Hfds. L1NDSAY-SCOTT, Miss W., Upper Bridge Court, Brilley, Whitney-on-Wye, Herefordshire. LING, Mrs. E., The Dell Cottage, Bridstow, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. LLOYD, A. W., Swanclose, Hergest Road, Kington, Herefordshire. LLOYD, C. R., The Laurels, Burghill, Hereford. LLOYD, D. J., 47, Burton Wood, Weobley, Hereford. LLOYD, Mrs. E. S., Three Hollies, Brilley Green, Whitney-on-Wye, Hfds. LOCK, Dr. j. M., Nimrod, Alexandra Road, Malvern, Worcestershire. LOCK, Mrs., Nimrod, Alexandra Road, Malvern, Worcestershire. LOCK, Miss M. R., Nimrod, Alexandra Road, Malvern, Worcestershire. LOFTHOUSE, M., 28, Clatterbrune, Presteigne, Radnorshire. LOMAX, Miss K. L., The Old Forge, Nash, Presteigne, Radnorshire. LORD, A., 34, Charles Witts Avenue, Hereford. LUCTON SCHOOL ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB, Eric Marsh, Master-in­ charge, Lucton School, Lucton, Leominster, Herefordshire. LYDIATT, Miss M., 61, Chartwell Road, Hereford. LYON, Miss Rosemary, Yew Trees, Hacketts, Colwall, Malvern, Worcs.

MACADIE, C. S., Long Thatch, Lydbury North, Salop. MADGE, Mrs. G., 16, Lodger Drive, Hereford. MALCOLM, A. D., Phillips House, Much Marcle, Herefordshire. MALCOLM, Mrs., Phillips House, Much Marcle, Herefordshire. MALLARD, W. H., The Cottage, Newtown Lane, Leominster, Hfds. MALLARD, Mrs., The Cottage, Newtown Lane, Leominster, Hfds. MANNING, C. H., 119, Holme Lacy Road, Hereford. MANSBRIDGE, A. S., 15, Moor Farm Lane, Hereford. MANSBRIDGE, Mrs., 15, Moor Farm Lane, Hereford. MARCHANT, A., 16, Broad Leys Crescent, Hereford. MARLER, W. J., RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire. MARSTON, F. W., Sandiacre, Yatton, Aymestrey, Herefordshire. MASON, K. A., The Sett, Common Hill, Fownhope, Herefordshire. MASON, Mrs. C. M., The Sett, Common Hill, Fownhope, Herefordshire. MATTHEWS, T. F. V., M.C., Prothither Mill, Nr. Hoarwithy, Hfds. MATTHEWS, Mrs., Prothither Mill, Nr. Hoarwithy, Herefordshire. MAUNSELL, Mrs. K. I., Little Tredunnock, L1angarron, Ross-on-Wye. McDOUGALL, P., M.Se., M.B.O.U., 1, Peterborough Road, Newton Hall, Durham. MEAD, C. J., 4, Beaconsfield Road, Tring, Hertfordshire. MEADHAM, W. H., la, Guildford Street, Hereford. MEADHAM, Mrs. H., 10, Guildford Street, Hereford. MEADOWS, Miss Jean, 39, Nasmyth Street, Denton, Manchester. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 167

MELLOR, D. C., 40, Moor Street, Hereford. MELLOR, Mrs., 40, Moor Street, Hereford. MEREDITH, J., I, The Orchard, Cusop, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford. MEREDITH, Mrs., I, The Orchard, Cusop, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford. MIDWOOD, B. N., The Willows Farm, Burrington, Ludlow, Salop. MIDWOOD, Mrs. J. M., The Willows Farm, Burrington, Ludlow, Salop. MILES, Dr. B. E., F.R.C.P., The Clyst, Hampton Park, Hereford. MILES, Mrs., The Clyst, Hampton Park, Hereford. M ILLS, L. c., 13, Pen-y- Bryn, Crossgates, Llandrindod Wells, Rads. MOORE, Air Commodore, L. P., C.B.E., Chalfont, Ferndale Road, Hereford. MOORE, Mrs. D., Chalfont, Ferndale Road, Hereford. MOORE, The Rev. R. c., Pippins, Horselane Orchard, Ledbury, Hfds. MORGAN, Mrs. ]. E., The Showers, Kingsland, Leominster, Herefordshire. • MORGAN, S. W., Ye Olde House, 15, Duke Street, Kington. MORLEY, R., 23, The Birches, Shobdon, Leominster, Hfds. MORLEY, Mrs. R., 23, The Birches, Shobdon, Herefordshire. MOSS, Miss K. L., 11, Green End, Presteign, Radnorshire. MOUNTFORD, A. R., Flat 3, Warham House, Breinton, Hereford. MOXLEY, R. J., The Retreat, Munstone, Hereford. MOXLEY, Mrs., The Retreat, Munstone, Hereford. MULLER, Miss I., (Hon. Member), Hampton House, Church Lane, Hampton Bishop, Hereford. MURRAY, J. G., M.R.C.V.S., Kilmory, Ledbury, Herefordshire. MURRAY, Mrs. Kilmory, Ledbury. MYNORS, Sir Humphrey, Treago, St. Weonards, Herefordshire.

NASH, A. R., Cranwell, Dinedor, Hereford. NASH, Mrs. J. R., Cranwell, Dinedor, Hereford.

OVENDEN, Dr. R. N., Stone House, Kingsland, Leominster, Hfds. OVENDEN, Mrs. P. A., Stone House, Kingsland, Leominster, Hfds. OWEN, T. R. H., C.B.E., Swinmoor, Madley, Hereford. OWEN, Mrs., Swinmoor, Madley, Hereford.

PALM ER, Mrs. N. F., The Red House, Tillington, Hereford. PALM ER, Miss M., The Red House, Tillington, Hereford. PALM ER, W., Fairfield, Dolberthog Lane, Llandrindod Wells, Rads. PARKER, J., Forest Lodge, Madley, Hereford. PARKER, Mrs., Forest Lodge, Madley, Hereford. *PARKER, ]onathan, Forest Lodge, Madley, Hereford. *PARRY, C. J., 9, Park View, Kington, Herefordshire. PARRY, J., Priors Court, Staplow, Ledbury, Herefordshire. PARRY, Miss J. M., Llugwy, 18, Clatterbrune, Presteigne, Rads. PARRY, Miss S. K., Ashfield, Luston, Leominster, Herefordshire. PASKE, Mrs. A. J., Bewdley Orchard, Canon Pyon Road, Hereford. PATTERSON, Miss M. W. L., Trefwrdan-Isaf, Nevern, Newport, Pembroke. PAUL, Dr. J. P., Winforton House, Winforton, Hereford. PAUL, Mrs. M., Winforton House, Winforton, Hereford. PHILLIPS, Mrs. D. E., Lydney, Ryelands Road, Leominster, Hfds. PILLEAU, Mrs. D. K., Hillcroft, Fownhope. PITTS, A. E., 16, Lighton Close, Hereford. PITTS, Mrs., 16, Lighton Close, Hereford. POLLEY, Col. J. G. T., R. E., Canterbury Cottage, Shobdon, Leominster, Hfds. *POLLEY, N. G. T., Canterbury Cottage, Shobdon, Leominster, Hfds. POND, Mrs. M., Croft Cottage, Lucton Lane, Lucton, Leominster, Hfds. PORTER, Mrs. H. A., M.B.E., Garden Cottage, The Avenue, Ross-on-Wye. POWELL, Miss A. C., Great Oak Corner, Eardisley, Herefordshire. 168 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

POWELL, Mrs. D., 336, Upper Ledbury Road, Hereford. POWELL, G., 3, The Hollies, Clehonger, Hereford. POWELL, Mrs., 3, The Hollies, Clehonger, Hereford. POWELL, Mrs. M., Hill House, Bradnor, Kington, Herefordshire. PREECE, J. W., 85, Pilley Road, Hereford. • PREECE, Stephen, 85, Pilley Road, Hereford. PRICE, Waiter, Glanedw, Rhulen, Builth Wells, Brecon. PROBYN, Mrs. F. M., Common Gate Cottage, Welsh Newton, Monmouth. PROSSER, A. S., 16, Guildford Street. Hereford. PROSSER, C. T. 0., Wyecroft, 23, Broomy Hill, Hereford. PROSSER, Mrs. M. E., Wyecroft, 23, Broomy Hill, Hereford. PROSSER, Miss M. M., Manderley, Norton Terrace, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. PROUT, P., Graiseley House, 180, Whitecross Road, Hereford. PROUT, Mrs. S., Graiseley House, 180. Whitecross Road. Hereford. PYKE, Mrs. B. R., 12, St. Ethelbert Street. Hereford. PYLE, Peter, 46, Eign Road, Hereford.

RANDOLPH, H. T., 14, Heatherwood. Midhurst. Sussex. RAPER. Mrs. C. J., Verland Cottage. L1angarron, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. RATHBONE, Mrs. M., 40. Underhill Road, Tupsley, Hereford. RAYNER. J. R.• Shopfield, Bringsty. Worcester. *RAYNER. Miss A., Shopfield, Bringsty. Worcester. RICHARDS. Miss J. M., Hawthorn Corner, Pentaloe Close, Mordiford. Hereford. RICHARDSON, Dr. R. E., 6. Green Court, Eaton Bishop, Hereford. RICHARDSON, Mrs. E., 6, Green Court, Eaton Bishop, Hereford. RICKETTS. K. F. H.• The Cowl Barn. Colwall, Malvern, Worcs. RICKETTS, Mrs. M. J.• The Cowl Barn, Colwall, Malvern, Worcs. RIGBY. Miss M. A., The Gate House, How Caple Court, Hereford. RIGSBY, S. G., 27th. Moreland Avenue, Hereford. RIGSBY. Mrs., 27, Moreland Avenue, Hereford. RIMMER, A. E., 21. Fayre Oaks Green, Hereford. RIMMER, Mrs. H., 21, Fayre Oaks Green, Hereford. RIST. Miss M. K., c/o Miss Rosemary Lyon, Yew Trees, Hacketts, Colwall, Malvern, Worcester. ROBBINS. R. A., Three Owls, Kingsland, Leominster, Hfds. ROBBINS, Mrs. H., Three Owls, Kingsland, Leominster. Hfds. ROBERTS, Dr. C. C. N., Church Cottage, Withington, Hereford. ROBERTS, Mrs. T. C. S., Church Cottage, Withington, Hereford. ROBINSON, J. H., Edgecombe, Swainshaill, Hereford. ROBINSON, l. B., Downside Lodge, 158, Foxley Lane, Purley, Surrey. ROGERS, Miss I.. 40, Tower Road, Hereford. ROOTES. M., Blaendree, L1anfair Waterdine, Knighton, Rads. ROUND, Mrs. D. M.• Kenelm, How Caple, Hereford. ROUND, Miss /anet. Kenelm, How Caple, Hereford. RUDD, Miss E. K. S., Whitehall, Goodrich, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. RUSSELL, c., 104, Baysham Street, Hereford. RYE, Mrs. M. l., Pilliners Hill. Breinton, Hereford.

SALMON, Col. H. Morrey, C.B.E., M.C.. D.L., M.B.O.U., 24, Bryngwyn Rd., Cyncoed, Cardiff. CF2 6PQ. SALWEY, A. T., Russell Cottage, Sutton Lakes, Cross Keys. Hereford. SHELDRAKE, C. W., Minsmere, Sutton St. Nicholas. Hereford. SHETLlFFE, Mrs. E. M., Canons House Flat, The Close, Hereford. SIBBICK, A., The Lodge, Mansell Lacy, Hereford. SINCLAIR, The Lady, Knock Mailing, Dairy, Castle Douglas, Kirkudbrightshire. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITIIOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973 169

SMALL, D. J. L., School House, Nantmell, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. SMALLWOOD, R. L., 61, Gresham Road, Hall Green, Birmingham 28. SM ITH, A. J., 4, The Orchard, Moreton-on-Lugg, Hereford. SM ITH, Mrs. A. D., 4, The Orchard, Moreton-on-Lugg, Hereford. SM ITH, F. E., The Corner Shop, 1, New Street, Ross-on-Wye, Herefords. SMITH, G. N., Stone House, Westhope Hill, Hereford. SM ITH, Mrs. J., Stone House, Westhope Hill, Hereford. SM ITH, H. c., C.B.E., M.B.O.U., Hazel Cottage, The Maypole, Rockfield, Monmouthshire.. SM ITH, J. J., Easter Cottage, Stretfordbury, Leominster, Hfds. SMITH, L., 9, The Coppice, Bishopsthorpe, York. SMITH, Rev. R. W., The Vicarage, Stretton Grandison, Ledbury, Hfds. SM ITH, Mrs., The Vicarage, Stretton Grandison, Ledbury, Hfds. *SM ITH, D. M. E., The Vicarage, Stretton Grandison, Ledbury, Hfds. SOUTHWOOD, John, Corner House, Gladestry, Kington, Hfds. STEWART, A. A, 114, Kings Acre Road, Hereford. STONE, Miss B., Ivy Cottage, How Caple, Hereford. STONE, I. T., Chantries, Grosmont, Abergavenny, Monmouth. STONE, Mrs., Chantries, Grosmont, Abergavenny, Monmouth. STUCKEY, A. c., Sunnycroft, Tillington, Hereford. SUMNER, Mrs. P. M., The Becks, Wellington Heath, Ledbury, Hfds. SUTCLlFFE, Miss D., 21, Elgar Avenue, Hampton Park, Hereford. SYMONDS, Mrs. M., 36, Bridge Street, Hereford.

TABRETT, L. Trenance, Gorsley, Ross-on-Wye, Hereford. TABR ETT, Mrs. Trenance, Gorsley, Ross-on-Wye, Hereford. TALBOT-RICE, The Hon. Mrs. B. M., Castle Weir, Lyonshall, Herefordshire. TATTON-BROWN, Miss S., Caradoc, Leintwardine, Craven Arms, Salop. TAYLOR, E. W., Littlebridge Bungalow, Norton, Bromyard. TAYLOR, Mrs. L. A., Littlebridge Bungalow, Norton, Bromyard. TAYLOR, Miss F. M., Sunnyhill, Luston, Leominster. TEBB, B. M., The Laurels, Staunton-on-Arrow, Leominster. THOMAS, Emrys, Montpelier, 78, Stanhope Street, Hereford. THOMAS, Mrs. M. M., Montpelier, 78, Stanhope Street, Hereford. THOMAS, G. W., Lanyon, The Hundred, Kimbolton, Leominster, Hfds. THOMAS, Mrs. I. 0., Lanyon, The Hundred, Kimbolton, Leominster, Hfds. THOMAS, H., 135, Whitecross Road, Hereford. fHOMAS, Mrs. M. E., Marloes, 17, Aylesbrook, Roman Road, Hereford. rHOMAS, M. H., 19, Nelson Street, Hereford. THOMAS, T., Bramley, Staunton-on-Arrow, Leominster, Herefordshire. THOMAS, Mrs., Bramley, Staunton-on-Arrow, Leominster, Herefordshire. THOMSON, Hall Pool, Marden, Hereford. THOMSON, Mrs. S. E., Hall Pool, Marden, Hereford. TOWNSEND, Brigadier E. P., Strangford End, Sellack, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. TOWNSEND, Mrs. I., Strangford End, Sellack, Ross-on-Wye. TREVOR, Miss E., Trecilla Cottage, L1angarron, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. TUPPER, Capt. J., 2a, Lichfield Avenue, Hereford. TUPPER, Mrs., 2a, Lichfield Avenue, Hereford. TUPPER, Miss I., 2a, Lichfield Avenue, Hereford. TURNER, J., The Hill, Kings Pyon, Hereford. TURNER, Mrs. M. L. N., The Hill, Kings Pyon, Hereford. TURTON, R. L., Bryncurl, Lyonsha 11 , Kington, Herefordshire.

UNDERWOOD, G. B., 17, Ingestre Street, Hereford. UNDERWOOD, Mrs., 17, Ingestre Street, Hereford. 170 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT, 1973

VENABLES-LLEWELYN, Brig., Sir C. M. D., Bart., M.V.O., L1ysdinam, Newbridge-on-Wye, L1andrindod Wells, Rads. VERNON, R. L., Burcher Cottage, Titley, Kington, Herefordshire. VICKERMAN, J., Ferriby, Wellington, Herefordshire. VICKERMAN, Mrs., Ferriby, Wellington, Herefordshire.

WALKER, Dr. C. W., M.C., 14, Venns Lane, Hereford. WALKER, Mrs. I. H., 14, Venns Lane, Hereford. *WALKER, Stephen, Brick House, Bearwood, Pembridge, Leominster, Hfds. WALSH, A. St. G., Snelson House, Macclesfield, Cheshi're. WALTERS, N. W., Nianda, 6, Elizabeth Road, Kington, Hfds. WARD, Miss S. M., Ridgebank House, Hergest Road, Kington, Hfds. WARD, W. F., I, Lacy Way, Barons Cross, Leominster, Hfds. WARD, Mrs., I, Lacy Way, Barons Cross, Leominster, Hfds. WAREING, W. S., 24, Bodenham Road, Heretord. WAREING, Mrs. E., 24, Bodenham Road, Hereford. WATKINS, J. H., 32, Church Road, Tupsley, Hereford. WATKINS, M. P., Pine Grove, Symonds Vat, Ross-on-Wye, Hfds. WATKINS, Mrs., Pine Grove, Symonds Vat, .Ross-on-Wye. WATSON, Miss L. M., Sunnyside, Yarpole, Leominster, Herefordshire. WATTS, K. D., 9, Aylestone Drive, Hereford. WAUGH, Mrs. Z., Yew Tree House, Kingstone, Herefordshire. *WEAKE, Clive, The Pottery, Penybont, L1andrindod Wells, Radnorshire. WELLS, D. G., The Spinney, Laskett Lane, Much Birch, Hereford. WELLS, Mrs., The Spinney, Laskett Lane, Much Birch, Hereford. WEST MIDLAND BIRD CLUB, Hon. Sec. A. J. Richards, Esq., 1, St. Asaphs Avenue, Studeley, Warwickshire. WESTOBY, Mrs. D., Hinton Court, Preston Wynne, Hereford. WHITEHEAD, Mrs. L. E., Rydal Mount, Bodenham Road, Hereford. WHITING, Mrs. E. S., Kinnersley Castle, Kinnersley, Hereford. WILLDER, B. c., New House Farm, Stretton Grandison, Ledbury, Hfds. WILDER, Mrs., New House Farm, Stretton Grandison, Ledbury, Hfds. WILLlAMS, Mrs. E. M., Lower House, Preston-on-Wye, Hereford. WILLlAMSON, J. H., 1, Victoria Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. WILSON, E., Hill View, Leysters, Leominster, Herefordshire. WILSON, Mrs. R. M., Hill View, Leysters, Leominster, Herefordshire. WILSON, Mrs. P. M., Great Oak Corner, Eardisley, Herefordshire. WINCE, Dr. W. H. D., Ladye Grove, Birley, Dilwyn, Herefordshire. WINCE, Mrs. M. B., Ladye Grove, Birley, Dilwyn, Herefordshire. WOOD, D. T., Oaklands, Dorstone, Hereford. WOOD, Mrs., Oaklands, Dorstone, Hereford. *WRIGHT, Colin, 23, Overbury Road, Hereford. WRIGHT, Mrs. H., Montfort House, Kington, Herefordshire.

YORKE, Miss,S, Salisbury Avenue, Tupsley, Hereford. YORKE, Mrs. E., Carron View, L1angarron, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire. YOUNG, Miss C. E., Castle Cliffe, 16, Quey Street, Hereford.