2017 Cannock Chase Bird Survey Species Report

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West Midland Bird Club Stafford Branch 2017 Cannock Chase Bird Survey Species Report

In memory of Frank Gribble MBE WEST MIDLAND BIRD CLUB STAFFORD BRANCH 2017 Cannock Chase - Survey Sectors Cannock Chase Bird Survey 1 Satnall Hills 9B Castle Ring In memory of Frank Gribble MBE 2A Haywood Warren 9C Brereton Hayes Wood - Chetwynd Coppice 2B Haywood Park 10A Fair Oak Lodge and Pools 3A Brocton Field 10B Takeroo Rationale 3B Katyn - Sherbrook Valley 11 Strawberry Hill - Bevin’s Birches The first WMBC Cannock Chase Bird Survey was undertaken in 1992 and has been carried out at five 4 Oldacre Valley 12 White House - Pepper Slade yearly intervals since then, making the 2017 survey the 6th conducted. 5 Badger Slade 14 Gentleshaw Common The aim of the Survey is to identify those bird species present and quantify their populations in 5A Spring Slade 15 Cuckoo Bank each sector surveyed. These outcomes will then be compared with previous surveys to identify any 6 Brindley Heath 16 Shoal Hill changes and trends. 6B Brindley Heath North 17 Teddesley Park and Hayes 7 Country Park 18 Newlands Wood (Not Surveyed) Funding for this year’s survey has come from the Sustainable Development Fund administered by 8 Stile Cop - Rawnsley Hills 19 Hednesford Hills the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (A.O.N.B) Unit and Stafford Borough Council 9A Beaudesert Old Park which was match funded by the Stafford Branch of the West Midland Bird Club. Contents Objectives The Survey results will Section One a. Target Species - Page 4-16 1. Identify changes in populations of the birds of Cannock Chase. b. WMBC 1992-2017 Target Species Summary - Page 16/17 Section Two Present only - Page 18/21 2. Inform the Cannock Chase AONB Unit; Staffordshire Wildlife Trust; Staffordshire County Council; Stafford Borough Council and other local Councils; The BTO; West Midland Bird Club; Natural Section Three Birds also seen - Page 22/24 England; The National Trust and the RSPB. Other stakeholders and local landholders, interest groups and the public will also be informed so that there is a wider understanding and knowledge Section Four Recommendations - Page 25 of the birds of Cannock Chase. Section Five References - 26 3. Be used to inform future sustainable land management to enhance ecosystems that support and Section Six Acknowledgements - Page 26/27 sustain birdlife. 4. Provide a basis for future surveys, including interim targeted species surveys. Methodology The survey area of Cannock Chase was divided into twenty-four sectors. Twenty-six competent volunteer birders were allocated a specific sector, or sectors, of the study area and asked to conduct a familiarisation visit and habitat survey of their specific sectors before the start of the survey. Photograph front cover Male Common Redstart RCB By February species such as Woodlark and Ravens have commenced breeding activities. This may also be true for certain resident birds that are on the target list, therefore, first visits were made from mid- February. During the months of March, April, May, June and July volunteers visited their sector twice each month, at two weekly intervals. At least two of those visits from mid-May were required to be Photograph this page after sun rise or at dawn to record crepuscular species. (e.g Nightjar). Specific survey arrangements Common Cuckoo MB were also made regarding Nightjar and Owls. Observations were made from pre-determined and agreed paths. Volunteers were asked to report six figure map references, evidence of breeding and habitat details of forty target species which are either scarce in Staffordshire or worthy of study as within the survey area they appear to be bucking national trends. A further twenty species of interest were noted as being present. Finally, a third list of birds which are common throughout the United Kingdom was compiled for completeness. All records were submitted to the Project Leader on spread sheets. Some additional records were also submitted by casual visitors to the Chase.

2 3 Introduction to Species Report found in 21 sectors. The maximum number seen together was 12 in March. Nesting birds were found Birds are listed in alphabetical order for ease of reference. in eight sectors in June. In 2007 their status was described as “several scattered pairs”. It appears that the population is at least stable and possibly increasing in line with the BBS results The figures after the birds’ names represent: a. the long-term percentage (%) change in the UK population from 1970-2014 (first figure) Common Crossbill a. (n.a.) b. 16% Frequent, though variable, irruptive visitor. Rare and erratic b. the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) conducted by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) trend breeding species. from 1995-2014 (second figure). At least four pairs bred successfully in 2017. Nest building was observed in three sectors and at In some cases the number of pairs are given where percentages (%) are not available (n.a.). four additional and different sites in February. On March 1st recently fledged birds were amongst *Where the names of the birds are preceded by an asterisk this denotes that those birds were late the groups of Crossbills roaming around the conifers. Family parties were found in the north of the additions to the Target species list. Survey area again in a further two sectors during May. Crossbills can be highly mobile, so it was hardly surprising that some records came in from another three sectors, thought not necessarily supporting Those species names that are in red are on the red list, which identifies them as species of greatest breeding birds. Crossbills may not breed every year on the Chase due to their irruptive behaviour, concern in UK and Ireland. Species whose names are in amber are of moderate concern. The but this is the first time that the WMBC Survey has been able to confirm breeding, even though it has remainder are on the Green list and are of least conservation concern. (Source, The State of Birds in been thought a probability in the past. the UK 2016. Common Cuckoo a. -54%, b. -43% Fairly common, but declining, summer visitor. Section One - Target Species Despite concerns regarding the long-term future of Cuckoos in parts of the UK the Chase remains a stronghold. There are parts of Staffordshire where residents will say that they have not heard a Barn Owl a. (n.a.) b. 227% Frequent but much declined, though now stable, resident. Cuckoo for many years. They should visit Cannock Chase! Cuckoos can be seen and heard from April Very scarce on the Chase but present in one sector in February. Another was in an adjacent sector in to mid-June. The first report was on April 9th in the Sherbrook Valley. By the month’s end calling June which suggested that there was a breeding pair, either within the Survey area or close by. A third males were distributed across 15 sectors. A further six sectors were added during May, and another sector in the west hosted a roosting pair in an oak tree but there was no proof of breeding. three in June. They could therefore be heard in every sector. A female was on the Hednesford Hills on May 8th. A hepatic female was also seen on Brindley Heath in April. By late May however, they were missing from sectors where they had been present for six or more weeks previously. Thereafter Barn Swallow a. 15%, b. 26% Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage they tended to be found in loose groups such as on Brindley Heath. This perhaps suggested that migrant. more than one male was being attracted to a recently found female. By the third week in June all Although they arrived in Staffordshire in late March they were not widely distributed around the adult Cuckoos had left. Numbers, due to high mobility, are always difficult to assess. Nevertheless, Chase until mid-April. They are attracted to human habitations with open access where nesting a maximum number would be the 45 counted in early June. By then Cuckoos were clearly grouping occurs. Some of the locations were Fair Oak Lodges, including one pair that nested in a garden shed; together. They were absent in 14 sectors. Only one juvenile Cuckoo was discovered. That was on Marquis Drive Visitor Centre and Rangers’ yard; West Cannock Farm; and various other equestrian establishments. They are however highly mobile and can be found almost anywhere on the Cuckoo Bank where the unfortunate parents were Reed Warblers. Chase especially as the breeding season advances. Seen in 18 sectors. Breeding Common Raven a. (n.a.) b. 45% Frequent visitor and uncommon to frequent, but increasing, took place in or near eight sectors at least. resident. Widely distributed across the Chase. Bred successfully in nine sectors and almost certainly in another three. The raucous cries of the juveniles *Black Redstart a 59% b -46% Scarce became a feature particularly from mid- summer resident, passage migrant and May. The largest gathering, 24 birds, was at a winter visitor. communal roost site in March. Sixteen were One was present on Cuckoo Bank on April also seen in an adjacent sector. These may 29th. have been part of the dispersing group from the original roost. Fourteen were again present *Bullfinch a. -40%, b. +9% Fairly there in May. There are few specific references common to common resident. in WMBC Annual Bird Reports for the Chase, During February Bullfinches seemed to be where they are now clearly well established surprisingly common and widespread. It as a breeding bird. Twenty years ago, Ravens was therefore belatedly decided to include in mid-Staffordshire were usually reported in them on the Target List as many in the single figures, but by 2003 they had returned Survey Team thought that their presence to this part of the County. The WMBC Survey was unexpected. Then they were present in 2012 reported that a third of the transects Photograph of Bullfinch RCB throughout the Survey period and were covered had Ravens present. Photograph of Common Raven SKW 4 5 The fact that Ravens were reported from every sector in this survey shows that they have continued they return they will need to be kept to increase substantially in the last five years. It is hoped that this data can be used as a baseline for free from disturbance and criminal future monitoring. activity. Please submit your records to the Staffordshire Bird Recorder (staffs- Common Redstart a. 75%, b. [email protected]. uk). Locations and observer details of 45% A fairly common, though localised any breeding birds will be withheld and much decreased, summer resident and dealt with in the utmost confid in Staffs. and Worcs. Widespread on ence. passage.

The first returning birds arrived in April *Eurasian Curlew a -64% b. but were slow to establish themselves. Adults were feeding youngsters by -24% Fairly common, declining, late May. Their national recovery is summer resident and passage migrant. not being replicated on the Chase, Frequent in winter but with a where they seem increasingly difficult significant reduction in numbers. to find. The WMBC 2014 Annual Bird One was seen over Cuckoo Bank in Report states that 24 territories were April. They are likely to pass over the held on the Chase with 27 territories Chase at any time of the year but reported in 2007, when there was especially from mid-March to April and Photograph of Dartford Warbler SKW much optimism expressed. In 2017 again in August - September. There is at least one pair that habitually attempts to breed at a site on eighteen singing males were heard. the border of the AONB, but this is threatened by disturbance and HS2. SUKB 2016 states “with the The lowest Survey total previously is bird’s global status of Near Threatened…….Curlew could be considered one of the most pressing 17 in 2002. Several territories formerly bird conservation priorities in the UK”. occupied were not in 2017. The long- Photograph of Common Redstart AB term future as one of the Chase’s European Nightjar a. 4600prs b.114% Uncommon to frequent, but very local, summer resident, special birds is therefore in doubt. The main population remains north of Penkridge Bank Road mainly on Cannock Chase. Rare passage migrant. although one pair bred successfully on Brindley Heath. One nesting pair attracted the attention of The first birds had arrived by May 14th. They were present in 14 sectors, at least, by the end of the photographers who insisted on getting very close to the nest-site. Breeding was confirmed in six month. They appeared at dusk over open areas before churring sessions took place, often silhouetted sectors. on prominent perching posts. Wing clapping and various flight calls were also heard but the real thrill came when they displayed in the half-light above the heads of Common Sandpiper a. -47%, b. -35% Fairly common passage migrant. Scarce summer resident the Survey teams. Five were seen and winter visitor. overhead in one sector It is therefore Surprisingly one was discovered at a private site without public access on April 22nd. It may have possible for anyone to go to almost spent the whole summer there. A true long distance migrant that spends the winter in Africa. Away any area of Cannock Chase from from the Chase they may benefit from gravel extraction in Staffordshire where a few pairs still breed. mid–May to the end of July and hear the wonderful calls and see the Common Snipe a. (n.a.) b. 16% Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Frequent, but aerial display of these birds. Overall much declined, breeding species, in Staffs. 66 churring males were found in 22 A winter visitor, but some remained in heather on Anson’s Bank into the Survey period. None were sectors. This represents 33-35 pairs. found after April. The population over the last ten years is therefore down slightly from Dartford Warbler a. 3200 prs. b. 663% Rare winter visitor and breeder. 2007 and similar to 1992 (28-33). The last confirmed report of Dartford Warbler on the Chase was in 2013. Their presence since was due to a northwards range extension prompted by mild winters. The winter of 2010, and then the Photograph of European Nightjar SKW late snow in the spring of 2013, brought that to what is thought to be a temporary end. News that there were Dartford Warblers present at a site south of the Survey area in late 2016 raised hopes that European Stonechat a. (n.a.) b. 29% Uncommon resident, but frequent passage migrant and a return to the Chase was imminent. It was therefore not unexpected when a single Dartford Warbler winter visitor . was found by the Survey team. There were then two unsubstantiated reports. There remains plenty Stonechats were affected by the winter of 2009-10 and the late snow of 2013. Since then they have of suitable habitat for Dartford Warblers on the Chase. Optimism for a return remains high. When continued to make a steady recovery across the Chase but not at Cuckoo Bank. Although they will 6 7 often perch prominently, they can bury themselves in the heather. As the season progressed they Greylag Goose a. (n.a) b. 211% Frequent feral resident. became more difficult to find for a while, but once chicks left nests they were once again prominent. The birds seen in the Midlands are non-migratory unlike the wild birds found mainly in North West They were found in eleven sectors, which is forty-four per cent of the sectors surveyed. The 2012 WMBC Scotland. They breed in Staffordshire and are increasing and dispersing. In the summer of 2016 a flock survey found them in 27% of sectors surveyed. In 2017 breeding was confirmed in seven sectors with of fifty were present at Brocton. They have been included on the Target List so that the population at least 16 pairs rearing chicks. on the Chase can be assessed. There were several reports of birds flying over in 2017. Two were at These numbers are still well Shugborough in February. In March ten were reported from widely scattered locations but may have down on the totals found in only involved four birds. One of these was at the Brocton site and was paired with a Canada Goose. 2007 when over 30 pairs were This was the only record from Brocton during the Survey. Thirteen separate records were received reported. It is however the during April and four in May. No records were received in June and July when Greylags are flightless. second highest figure reported Their nearest known breeding site is at Blithfield where, only in recent years, they have produced by this Survey over a 25 year goslings. period. They have been absent at Cuckoo Bank since 2013. Grey Partridge a. -92% b. -58% Scarce to common resident. The population stronghold Just a single bird was reported on the edge of the Survey area. Now limited to a handful of sites in remains the Sherbrook Valley, the County. although two pairs bred on Brindley Heath. A pair was seen on Gentleshaw Common, Hobby a. (n.a) b. -10% although the fire in the spring Uncommon summer resident and may have disrupted their passage migrant. breeding cycle. A family was The first bird was reported on also seen on Hednesford Hills. Photograph of European Stonechat RCB April 14th over Cuckoo Bank. It, or another, was seen on the 28th. These were the only April records. By *Firecrest a. 832% b. 1021% Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare breeding species. the end of the Survey they had been The County bird recorder passed on a report of a probable Firecrest singing on Cannock Chase. The reported from eleven sectors. A nest bird had been seen high up in conifers, highly active and always silhouetted. After some re-assurances, with four chicks was found in the the observer gave precise details of the location which was then visited on the May 26th and within a north of the Chase and late in July at few minutes the presence of a male singing Firecrest was confirmed. It was clearly holding a territory least two other pairs were active to and may have been present for a while, although subsequent checks resulted in no further sightings. the west. There was another active The BTO has recently reported that numbers of singing Firecrests has quadrupled since 2000 in the pair in the south where prey was New Forest. It may therefore be possible for more Firecrests to be present on the Chase in the none seen being carried by adults. There too distant future that could colonise this area in the same way as Dartford Warbler and Woodlark. were therefore possibly four or five breeding pairs in the Survey area in Garden Warbler a. -5%, b. -19% Fairly common to common resident. 2017 compared to two or three in 2007. Photograph of Hobby SKW The first returning bird was singing at Coppice Hill on April 24th. By that month’s end they were found in four sectors. They then became well established across the Survey area and by the end of May they Honey-buzzard a. 41prs b. 338% Rare passage migrant and summer visitor. Two nineteenth could be found in 20 sectors. A total of 61 singing males were heard. Breeding activity was well under century and one possible 21st century breeding records. way by the end of May and by mid-June they were present in all but one of the sectors. There was no No reports of this rare summer visitor were received in 2017. It was last reported in Staffordshire in evidence that there were more present north of Penkridge Bank Road but, perversely, they seemed to arrive earlier in the north than the south. Previously, concern has been expressed about their decline 2014 at the WMBC Reserve at Belvide Reservoir near Brewood. on Cannock Chase. The evidence of this Survey is that they continue to thrive, and the population appears to be stable at least, and possibly increasing. This may be a result of the availability of more Lesser Redpoll acanthis cabaret a. -86% b. 38% Fairly common passage migrant and winter suitable habitat. The first fledglings were seen in the final week of June. visitor. Uncommon or frequent breeding species, mainly in Staffs. Redpolls featured in February in eight sectors with six of those sectors being in the north. Eventually they were observed in 21sectors. Ten sectors held double figures at various times during the spring. Grasshopper Warbler a. (n.a.) b. -18% Frequent, but much declined, summer resident and On Brindley Heath 70 were present on March 9th as birds began to pass through with 50 around the passage migrant. Chetwynd Coppice and 40 at Brocton Coppice. The highest count was on the larches of Abraham’s The first birds had arrived by April 19th but they were found only in the south of the Survey area in Valley when 150 were present on April 21st. All but five had departed by mid-May, with just three two sectors. 12 singing birds were heard. The finding of this Survey shows that in the last ten years birds reported south of the White House. June and July both produced summering parties of four their distribution and numbers have shrunk substantially. 22 singing birds were present in 2007, and two around Haywood Warren, raising the prospect that there is still a small breeding population including birds in Sherbrook Valley, where none were found in this Survey. 8 9 on the Chase of up to three pairs. The 2012 WMBC Survey reported that they were found in 47% to the Sherbrook Valley but two birds were seen in the south-east of the Survey area. In April, they of transects surveyed. The WMBC 2007 Survey did not acknowledge their presence but the 2002 were more widespread and occurred in seven sectors across the Chase. Most, however, were then Survey described them as being widespread. Our findings certainly agree that Redpolls are indeed at, or near, Shoal Hill Common where 12 were seen. Gentleshaw Common and Cuckoo Bank also widespread and perhaps more so in certain years. had a good passage of birds with a maximum of seven being recorded. The final two occurred at Gentleshaw on May 5th. In total at least 36 migrating birds appeared in eight sectors between March Lesser Spotted Woodpecker a. -83% b. (n.a.) Uncommon and much reduced resident. and the beginning of May. It remains very scarce in Staffordshire but nevertheless Cannock Chase remains one of a handful of locations where it is still found, albeit only in three sectors. This may relate to a single pair in the north *Osprey a. 218% b. 360% Uncommon passage migrant. and a possible pair in the south. What was thought to be a former nest site was found near to where A migrant bird was found roosting on April 2nd. Arguably the best places in Staffordshire to see these one of the pairs was discovered. A single bird was still present in mid-June away from where possible magnificent birds are the WMBC Reserves at Blithfield, Gailey Reservoir and Belvide. Observations breeding had taken place. Despite their scarcity and their tenuous hold on to a Chase presence their from those locations suggest that Ospreys are likely to pass over Cannock Chase from late March to status has not changed significantly in the last 25 years. mid September.

Lesser Whitethroat a. 19% b. 2% Fairly common resident. Two winter records. *Oystercatcher a. (n.a.) b. -19% Frequent passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor and uncommon This remains a scarce bird on the Chase due possibly to lack of suitable habitat. A migrant was in to scarce breeding bird. the Survey area in April. Two breeding pairs were discovered in June. Previous Surveys have not A single bird was found at a private site with no public access. This was a genuine surprise for the specifically reported on it so these may be the first confirmed breeding records. observer. Oystercatchers breed within the County and can be found almost anywhere either by water or on arable land. They have bred at the WMBC Reserves at Blithfield and Belvide Reservoirs in the last Little Owl a -65% b. -58% Fairly common but declining resident. decade. Found in three sectors, two in the south and one in the west of the Survey area. They may have bred in all three but more strongly suspected in the latter. Peregrine Falcon a. (n.a.) b. -13% Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon breeding species. Long-eared Owl a. (n.a.) b. (n.a.) Uncommon and erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. A breeding attempt in 2017 was unsuccessful. Criminal activity could not be ruled out at what should Found in seven sectors in coniferous woodland. Well grown owlets were out of the nest at a well be a highly secure site. The male was then frequently seen in adjacent sectors. Another pair visited a watched site in late May. Breeding was confirmed in three sectors and may have taken place in sector in the south regularly but are known to breed outside the Survey area at a site designated for another three. The presence in a seventh sector needs further investigation. The number of confirmed possible demolition. breeding pairs is the same as in 2007 when there was also an unconfirmed breeding record. Pied Flycatcher a. (n.a.) b. -48 % Uncommon summer resident and passage migrant, though Mandarin Duck a. (n.a.) b. (n.a.) Uncommon, but increasing, feral resident and winter visitor. breeding regularly in Staffs. and Worcs. A pair frequented a watercourse at the northern end of the Survey area. The pair was still present Four nesting pairs were found even though it was believed by many that it had been lost as a in mid-June. In recent years Mandarins have expanded their range from areas where they were breeding bird on the Chase introduced. They appeared to be prospecting the Chase for suitable breeding sites as in previous since 2013. There was then a years. reliable report in 2016. News of the first arrival in 2017 Marsh Tit a. -72% b. -32% Fairly common resident. soon emerged. Food was None were discovered during 2017 despite extensive searching. The 2007 Survey placed it on the being taken into the nests by common breeding list where it was stated as being in small numbers in mature oak woodland. It was the first week in June. They not mentioned in 2002. could benefit from a targeted conservation project involving Northern Goshawk a. 505% b. 303% Scarce to uncommon resident and visitor. more nest boxes and the Seen in four sectors across the Chase. Their population appears to be stable despite their more retention of mature trees. On favourable national performance. Perhaps there should be more here. Despite their shyness they June 27th, a male was found are susceptible to criminal persecution. Two nests were known to yield two and four well developed in Abraham’s Valley away from chicks, ringed under licence. Their locations are therefore withheld. the main breeding area. SUKB 2016 states “There are more *Northern Wheatear a. (n.a.) b. -11% Frequent summer visitor and scarce breeder, mainly to north birds associated with woodland Staffs. Fairly common and widespread on passage. One winter record. on the Red List now including Wheatears were lost as a breeding bird on the Chase many years ago. They still appear in spring as Woodcock,Nightingale a passage migrant. They were first seen in March in four sectors. Most of these sightings were close Photograph of Pied Flycatcher SKW andPied Flycatchers” 10 11 *Red Kite a. (n.a.) b. 1026% Scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until sector in the south. In March, they became more widespread occupying 12 sectors with the largest the early 19th century but now an uncommon breeder. flock of 40 in Brocton Coppice. The trend continued in May when 13 sectors had Siskins. These birds This magnificent raptor was reported on occasions over three sectors including two together over then rapidly moved on so that they were found in only three sectors, one with recently fledged birds. Brocton on June 3rd. This is not surprising as they now breed in the County following several national A further family party was discovered at another sector in July. Overall, they were found in 18 sectors. introduction projects and perhaps possibly spreading from the increasing Welsh population. Breeding was confirmed in two of these and possibly took place in a further three.

Red-legged Partridge a. -22% b. 13% Scarce to common resident. Skylark a. 60% b. 24% Abundant, though much declined, resident, passage migrant and winter Found only in two sectors in the north-west of the Chase. visitor. At least 193 individuals were found within the Survey area. That correlates almost exactly to the 2007 figure. Cuckoo Bank is the most favoured area (40 pairs), but other areas are south-east of the Marquis Drive Visitor Centre on the grassy slopes of disused workings, Pottall Pool Valley and Reed Bunting a. -32 % b. 29% similar habitat north of Brereton Hayes Wood. They can also be found on the north-western part of Common though declining Sherbrook Valley and on Brindley Heath. In addition to the main sites Skylarks were seen, mainly as resident. flyovers, in an additional eight sectors. Surprisingly widespread in February with one 127 at one location where they appeared to Spotted Flycatcher a. -86% b. -44% Fairly common, though declining summer resident. have an affinity to Purple Moor None were discovered in April. They remained scarce throughout May too, when they could only be Grass. (Over 300 were reported In found in three sectors. By the end of July they had been found in nine sectors which involved birds January). They were then seen in possibly occupying ten territories. One pair was occupying a nest in June. A separate family party other sectors in similar habitat but was observed in July. Six pairs were reported on the Chase in the WMBC 2012 Annual Bird Report. normally in parties of less than This Survey confirmed six instances of successful breeding with a further five probable attempts. The ten. By April most had departed confirmation of 11 pairs compares favourably with the 2012 Report as well as the WMBC Surveys of but they were still found in eight 2007 (four records) and 2002 (five records). sectors compared with 14 in March. Breeding was confirmed Tawny Owl a. -32% b. -21% Fairly common resident. in one sector and possibly in They were found in a creditable 20 sectors. Owlets were either seen or heard in nine sectors. The 2007 another. Small numbers could still WMBC Survey states that 17 pairs were found. The population is at least stable. be found in July but only in three sectors. Tree Pipit a. -67% b. 16% Uncommon to common, though declining, summer resident and passage Photograph of Reed Bunting RCB migrant becoming increasingly restricted to the northern and *Ring Ouzel a. 5332prs b. 72% Scarce and declining summer resident on the North Staffs. Moors. western parts of the region. Uncommon passage migrant. From the second week in April Very rare in winter. and until late June the song and Single migrant birds were the parachuting display flight seen in Sherbrook Valley and remained a feature. Cannock Haywood Warren Chase certainly is a stronghold for this species which may attract Siskin a. (n.a.) b. 59% Fairly Cuckoos although no evidence common passage migrant and was gathered regarding winter visitor. Rare or scarce parasitism. By the end of April breeding species. 86 singing birds were found Siskins are traditionally winter in 17 sectors. This rose to 105 visitors, some remain to breed. birds being counted in May in They are attracted to conifers 21 sectors. By the end of May and, in spring, especially breeding activity was well under larches. In February, they were way with evidence that chicks found in eight sectors in small were in nests as food was seen parties of less than ten, but being carried by adult birds. By there was a flock of 75 in one Photograph of Siskin SKW July Tree Pipits had been seen in Photograph of Tree Pipit SKW 12 13 22 sectors (88%). Confirmation of successful breeding was achieved in 12 sectors. The 2012 WMBC sectors. Nest building was soon observed and in late May pairs were feeding chicks. At times, their Survey logged 56 occupied territories which was 73% of the transects covered. The 2007 WMBC numbers were overwhelming with 60 in the Oldacre Valley and 50 on the Hednesford Hills. Monthly Survey found 98 pairs. It can be concluded that Tree Pipits have continued to benefit from careful totals were: March six, April 503, May 280, and June 281. Breeding was confirmed in eight sectors and management of their preferred habitat where song posts are of vital importance. almost certainly took place in the others too. It is therefore hard to comprehend that they are now amber listed. Their greatest decline seems to be in lowland southern England. Turtle Dove a. -97% b. -93% Uncommon to frequent summer visitor and passage migrant to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Scarce to uncommon elsewhere. Wood Warbler a. (n.a.) b. -56% The national decline of Turtle Doves is more catastrophic than any other summer visiting species. Frequent though declining summer Their decline on the Chase commenced sometime after 1997. The fact that the Chase is still able visitor, now mainly confined to the north to host a small number of Turtle Doves makes it a very special place indeed although they remain and west of the region. very scarce. It was thought Four pairs, possibly five, were that at least three were singing discovered. The breeding outcomes and displaying in 2016 after an were not confirmed. This is down from absence since 2009 so hopes the ten pairs in 1992, seven in 2002 and were high for 2017. During May eight in 2007 and 2012. reports were first received from casual visitors but gradually The 2014 WMBC Annual Bird Report a handful of the Survey Team stated that there were four pairs tracked purring males down discovered on the Chase in that year. to a few well scattered singing Photograph of Wood Warbler SKW spots in two sectors. A pair was Woodcock a. (n.a.) b. (n.a.) Frequent or fairly common resident and winter visitor. seen but their appearances were This is classed as a woodland species. Please see comments under Pied Flycatcher on page 13. They always infrequent and brief. This are highly mobile when roding so some double counting may occur. This species was placed on the made it difficult to assess how Red list in 2016 (SUKB 2016) because it “shows a severe long-term decline in range.” many birds were present, but the total was probably no more than Cannock Chase clearly still provides habitat that attracts good numbers in winter. Some remain two, although a bird was throughout the breeding season. In February birds were disturbed from Brindley Heath, Stile Cop, Photograph of Turtle Dove AB reported from a Brocton garden. Upper Longdon and near Rugeley Quarry. They were still only found in five sectors in March with just one new sector in April. However May saw the situation change dramatically as crepuscular surveying *Whinchat a. (n.a.) b. -53% Uncommon or frequent, but much declined, summer resident, now commenced. They were then found in 15 sectors across the Chase. Surveyors were made aware of mainly in north Staffs. and Worcs. Widespread on passage. the risk of double counting and to report minimum numbers if unsure of the number of passing Disappointingly none were reported within the Survey area although they were found in adjacent birds. 53 birds were recorded during evenings in June when 67 sightings were made, mainly in flight. fields just outside the area. This decreasing breeding species is a scarce passage migrant on or around Breeding activity was clearly taking place so it was no surprise when two nests with four chicks the Survey area. It has all but disappeared as a breeding species in Staffordshire. were discovered, while fledged birds were reported from another sector. A Willow Tit a. -93% b. -77% Uncommon to scarce resident; almost rare in Worcs. nest with four chicks was reported by Seemingly a very scarce bird on the Chase. Found in just three sectors, one of which had a pair that the Forestry Commission. They were produced four youngsters. In a second sector, a male was singing. They could not be found this year finally reported in 21 sectors involving at Brocton Coppice where they have been regular for several years. The 2012 WMBC Annual Bird a minimum of 67 birds. Report indicated that there were at least three pairs on the Chase. In 2007 the WMBC Survey found eight pairs, six of which were in the Cuckoo Bank and Gentleshaw area with others near Brocton Woodlark a. 3100prs b. 1086prs Coppice and Brocton Pool. They still can be found around Chasewater, which was not part of this Resident until 1960, then a rare visitor and Survey. now an uncommon breeding species. Woodlarks disappeared from the West Willow Warbler a. -42% b. -8% Very common to abundant, but declining, summer resident. One Midlands Region in the 1960s and winter record. returned to the Chase in 1994. Since This was the first time that the Survey had reported on this species, not because it is scarce here but then there has been a good breeding because they appear to be abundant on the Chase, whilst in decline elsewhere. They arrived in the population established. This is in line last few days of March when they were present in four sectors. By the end of the first week of April with the national trend. Woodlark their song could be heard all over the Chase and at that month’s end they were present in all the conservation is nationally a success. Photograph of Woodlark SKW 14 15 On Cannock Chase Woodlarks may be found on clear-fell or on areas where the heather and other Lesser Whitethroat* 2pr vegetation is short in the spring. Assessing the numbers present can be difficult because they tend to LW move around whilst searching for a mate and some birds remain unattached. After pairing has been LO Little Owl 1pr 2pr 1 3pr completed singing stops. They become more secretive so it is important to confirm that the birds are still present after the initial discovery. 34 pairs were found in 2017 in nine sectors. The WMBC Annual LE Long-eared Owl 1pr 2 3 3 2+ 3-6pr Bird Report recorded 20 pairs in 2014. Optimism expressed in the 2007 Survey Report stated that the MN Mandarin Duck* 3 Chase had room for up to 40 pairs. MT Marsh Tit 1+ 0 Yellowhammer a. -55% b. -14% Nightjar, European 28-33 38 75 42 16+pr 66 Very common to abundant, though NJ declining, resident. PF Pied Flycatcher 7pr 3pr 1pr 2pr 6pr 4pr A small number spend the winter on the Chase. There was a notable influx in RN Raven, Common 5pr? 8+pr March when the sectors holding birds KT Red Kite 2+ rose from five to ten. They increased to 11 in April and rose to a maximum of RL Red-legged Partridge 5 9 13 in May. They were most numerous Redpoll, Lesser c3pr in Oldacre Valley and Cuckoo Bank. LR Otherwise they are thinly distributed RT Redstart, Common 27 35 17 29 9+pr 18s across the Chase. No more than 48 adult birds were present in total. In RB Reed Bunting 8 36 66 9+pr 2+pr 2007 the Yellowhammer on the Chase SE Short-eared Owl 0 was described as fairly common in the Photograph of Yellowhammer SKW south but uncommon elsewhere. This SK Siskin 4 17 c5pr survey was the first Chase-wide to attempt to log the total numbers present. S Skylark 222 192 193 WMBC 1992-2017 Cannock Chase Survey Target Species Summary SN Snipe, Common* 1-2 1+ Code Bird 1992 1997 2002 2007 2012 2017 SF Spotted Flycatcher 5pr 4pr 6pr 10pr BO Barn Owl 1+ 2pr Stonechat, European 3 1-5 7-10 30+ 8 16prs BF Bullfinch n/s n/s P* 6+pr 8pr SC Swallow, Barn* 222 192 ? c32pr CR Crossbill, Common 1pr? 1pr? P 1pr c4pr 4+pr SL Tawny Owl 16 17 c17+? c20pr CK Cuckoo, Common n/s n/s 29 32 11+ 32-45 TO 95 179 119 98 57 105s DW Dartford Warbler 4pr 3+pr 1 TP Tree Pipit GW Garden Warbler 43 61s TD Turtle Dove 2-3 5-7 0 1+pr GL Goshawk, Northern 4 3 2pr W Wheatear, Northern* 36+ GH Grasshopper Warbler 4 2 2 22 2+ 12 WC Whinchat* 2 0 0 0 0 0 GJ Greylag Goose* 4+ WT Willow Tit 6 3pr 1-3pr P Grey Partridge 1pr 0 0 1 WW Willow Warbler* 61+ 281s GL Grey Wagtail 1 6 2+pr 6+pr WK Woodcock 27 30 15-20 15-30 ? 67+ HY Hobby nil 1 3 2-3 1 4-5pr WL Woodlark 7-9 26 32 16+pr 34+pr HB Honey-buzzard 0 WO Wood Warbler 10pr 4pr 7pr 8pr ? 4pr LS Lesser Spotted Woodpecker n/s 3pr 3pr 1-2 2pr 2pr? Y Yellowhammer 6+ 48 16 17 Section Two Common Pheasant a. 74% b. 32% Very common resident, mainly in rural areas. Common and widespread across the Chase in at least 18 sectors. Their population may be increasing Observers were asked only to report the presence of the following species: unabated here. Blackcap a. 298% b. 151% Very common to abundant summer resident. Frequent and increasing Common Swift a. (n.a.) b. -47% Common summer resident and passage migrant. summer visitor. Local populations from nearby urban areas feed over the Chase. They were seen over 14 sectors. A common summer woodland species They do nest in adjacent villages. Their decline could be addressed if housing developers considered on the Chase. Reported from all sectors erecting specially designed nest boxes to new buildings near to the Chase. with the first birds arriving in April. Recently fledged birds were seen from Common Whitethroat a. 9% b. 23% Very common to abundant summer resident and passage late June onwards. migrant. Common and widespread across heathland areas. They became prominent from mid-May onwards Common Buzzard a. 454% b. 80% and eventually were present in 25 sectors with 30 at Cuckoo Bank and 28 in the southern half of Frequent and increasing resident, passage Sherbrook Valley. They have recovered nationally from a decline in the 1970’s possibly caused by migrant and winter visitor. drought in their wintering area in Africa. They can be seen anywhere over the Chase on any day. One was reported Eurasian Sparrowhawk a. 74% b. -11 % Fairly common resident. to have taken a Little Owl searching for Although they were seen in 20 sectors most of those were of single birds flying over. There were 14 earthworms while following a tractor. breeding pairs. Elsewhere their recent decline is beginning to be noticeable after years of steady Two deceased Kestrels were also found increases since the disasters of the 1960s and 70s in a further two sectors. These too may have fallen prey to Buzzards. Gadwall a. (n.a.) b. 105% Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Common breeding species. Although this duck species has increased in recent years in Staffordshire it cannot be considered

a regular visitor to any of the waters on the Chase. No reports were received from the WMBC 2017 Photograph of Common Buzzard RCB Survey Team. It has been seen at Shugborough in former years. Coot a. 59% b. 19% Fairly common resident, common in winter. Goosander a. 20% b. 12% Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce in summer and rare to uncommon Perhaps surprisingly Coot can be found on almost any medium sized pool on Cannock Chase. They breeding bird. were present in nine sectors. Nesting pairs were reported from early May. An occasional visitor to the larger expanses of water especially at Shugborough. They nest in tree

hollows frequenting the Sow and Trent Valleys where they now breed. Breeding in future from within Common Kestrel a. -48% b. -36% Fairly common resident. the Survey area cannot be discounted. Two corpses were found in sectors where Buzzards are present. Predation may be one of the causes in their decline for what was, until recently, Britain’s most common raptor. Kestrels were reported from Grey Wagtail a. -40% b. -8% 20 sectors with breeding confirmed Fairly common resident, passage in at least two. migrant and winter visitor. Despite being recently placed on the Red List Grey Wagtails are Common Kingfisher a. -15% b. doing well on the Chase. They were -2% Fairly common resident. found in 13 sectors throughout the One was found in Fair Oak Valley in Survey period. Around Fair Oak February and then again in June. two pairs reared families and one of In the past, they have attempted those pairs also produced a second to breed there. Another in July was family. Successful breeding took unexpectedly seen carrying a fish place in another four sectors and over Gentleshaw Common. In also possibly in another two. total they were found in five sectors including Shugborough. Photograph of Common Kingfisher SKW Photograph of Grey Wagtail SKW

18 19 Linnet a. -57% b. -25% Very common, though much reduced, resident and partial migrant with fewer in winter. Seemingly absent in winter but they had returned to three sectors by March. They Great Spotted Woodpecker were found in 17 sectors. a. 360% b. 136% Fairly common to Linnets are typical heathland common resident. and farmland breeding Seemingly common across the Chase birds that are in decline. except possibly on Cuckoo Bank. Consideration should be given as to whether they should be a target species for monitoring on the Chase. They favour gorse or hawthorn bushes for nesting. Breeding was confirmed in Photograph of Linnet GM one sector and may have taken place in another five.

Mallard a. 96% b. 15% Common resident and very common winter visitor. The Chase clearly has an attraction for wildfowl and this species is the one most likely to be seen even along small water courses. On one occasion a bird was seen flying across the heather above Photograph Great Spotted Woodpecker SKW Sherbrook Valley. Eventually Mallards were seen in 19 sectors.

Moorhen a. -27% b. -12% Very common resident. Could be present on almost any pool or pond but are more secretive than Coot. It was therefore found only in eight sectors with breeding in one but suspected in another five. Green Woodpecker a. 19% b. 31% Fairly common resident. Northern Lapwing a. -63% b. -43% Common migrant and winter visitor Fairly common to Common and widespread across the Chase common, breeding species. throughout the year. Their yaffle is a feature This is not really a bird of Cannock Chase but it may be found in adjacent fields or over flying the especially in late winter before other resident Chase. Lapwings nest in the Sow Valley at Rawbones. There may be areas within the Survey area species begin to sing. They were present in however where, with a specific management plan, they could be encouraged all sectors except Cuckoo Bank. As spring progresses they tend to call less frequently. Tufted Duck a. (n.a.) b. 38% Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident. Young birds were found from mid-June. May breed on small pools but generally this diving duck prefers larger expanses of water. Nevertheless it was discovered in three sectors.

Photograph Green Woodpecker SKW 20 21 Section Three Goldfinch - Fairly common but possibly The following birds were also seen on the Chase: increasing.

Blackbird - Abundant still. Great Cormorant - Visits Shugborough. Black-headed Gull - Occasionally birds fly over the Chase. Otherwise may mostly be seen flying over the Blue Tit - Common to abundant. Chase.

Brambling - Can be widespread over the Chase in winter. Some may stay as late as early May. Great Crested Grebe a. (n.a.) b. 13% Fairly - Bred at Fair Oak Pools. Canada Goose common resident and winter visitor. - Common breeding bird. Carrion Crow As with Goosander the best place to see these - Abundant in 2007 but now reported at their lowest recorded level in UK gardens. Chaffinch within the Survey area is at Shugborough but - Common breeding bird especially in conifers. Coal Tit unlike Goosanders a pair was seen nest - Described as common in 2007 but it is not so in 2017. Reports came from six Collared Dove building in July. sectors only. Photograph Eurasian Treescreeper SKW Great Tit - Abundant breeding bird. Common Chiffchaff - Some may winter but most arrive and sing from mid-March. Thought by some to be ten times less common than Willow Warbler. Great Black-backed Gull - One reported. Common Starling - Possibly more common in the south of the Survey area but could be decreasing as a breeding bird across the Chase. Greenfinch - Stated as common in 2007 but probably less so in 2017 as affected by disease.

Dunnock - Common breeding bird. Grey Heron - Reported in nine sectors either visiting pools or passing over the Chase.

Eurasian Jay - Fairly common and widespread breeding bird. Possibly increasing. Herring Gull - Seen passing over three sectors.

Eurasian Nuthatch - Common and widespread breeding bird. Probably increasing. House Martin - Reported from seven sectors with a maximum of 20 from Brereton Hayes Wood. They are more likely to be seen nearer to housing developments than Swallows. They could benefit Eurasian Teal - May be found on pools and across the Chase in winter. Stayed throughout the from erection of nest boxes on new developments. summer in one location. House Sparrow - There are small breeding populations around some human habitations. Eurasian Treecreeper - Fairly common and widespread woodland breeding bird. Jackdaw - Fairly common. Eurasian Wigeon - Winter visitor especially to Shugborough. Some stay as late as May.

Feral Pigeon - These are found all over the world with the exception perhaps of the polar Lesser Black-backed Gull - Reported sometimes in single figure groups over five sectors. regions. They were reported from five sectors on the Chase. Little Grebe - Bred in two sectors. One pair produced a second brood. Fieldfare - Small parties were moving north over the Chase in February and early March. They will return in mid-October. Reports came from three sectors. Little Ringed Plover a. 1200 prs b. 80%. Up to two pairs may have bred in one sector. Goldcrest - Common to abundant in autumn when many arrive and through the winter. The breeding population may be smaller. Long-tailed Tit - Common breeding bird. 22 23 Magpie - Common and widespread. Recommendations Meadow Pipit - Locally common breeding bird on heath and grassland but can be numerous in The Birds The target species and other lists need to be revised for the 2022 Survey so that all red and amber autumn when migrants pass through. listed birds present on the Chase are included in one or other of the two main lists.

Mistle Thrush - May still be fairly common but possibly a decreasing breeding bird. The West Midland Bird Club, with other partners, will carry out studies of the Cuckoo population on the Chase including their migration patterns. The Club should make every effort to be involved by Mute Swan - A pair bred at Shugborough rearing two cygnets. providing local and regional source information. The Redstart, Wood Warbler and Pied Flycatcher population will be recorded annually. Pied Wagtail - Seemed surprisingly scarce and only reported from ten sectors. One pair was known to have bred. Consideration should be given to how best to conserve Common Redstarts, not only at their present level but to increase it. This will include investigations of any other projects nationwide associated Redwing - Small, lingering groups were present still from mid-February to mid-March in seven with Common Redstart conservation. sectors. Last reported on March 24th at Haywood Park. They will return in October. Programmes to search for Willow Tit, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Firecrest and Dartford Warbler will be undertaken. Reed Warbler - This summer visitor bred successfully at Shugborough (3+ pairs), Shoal Hill (3 pairs) and on Cuckoo Bank (5 pairs). At the latter site one pair raised a Cuckoo. The Club will attempt to assess the ratio of singing Willow Warblers to Chiffchaffs in specific sectors. The Club will identify certain specific sectors for further study as part of its ongoing studies of the Robin - Abundant breeding bird. birds of Cannock Chase. Rook - Although there is a substantial rookery at Brocton very few were seen over the Chase. Management Issues Reported over four sectors only. The West Midland Bird club welcomes the appointment of two Special Area of Conservation (SAC} Officers by Staffordshire County Council. Sedge Warbler - Only reported from two sectors presumably due to lack of suitable habitat. The Club will ask for its logo to be displayed alongside those of other user groups on the website Shoveler a. 68% b. 5% (WeBS) Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare and currently being developed by the SAC Officers thereby linking the Club to the SAC website. decreasing breeding species. The Club will help to develop a public education strategy to inform and interest all users of the Chase, Nineteen were present at Shugborough in February and six in March. They were not seen after that. as to the wildlife that may be found, to engage the public, so that the needs of wildlife are fully understood. Song Thrush - Common and widely scattered breeding bird. The Club will use its knowledge and understanding of the birds of Cannock Chase, together with Stock Dove - Not mentioned in 2007 but it is present across the Chase as a breeding bird especially others, as part of that public education strategy. in mature deciduous woodland. Measures that should be considered are: 1. Giving more information on the birds (and other wildlife) found in specific areas linked with the Tree Sparrow - Discovered in one sector only. importance of keeping to main tracks and paths. This would include signage specific to wildlife and could be part of the site users’ strategy Water Rail - Found in one location. Breeding status not known. 2. The behaviour of most people visiting the Chase is good, however, consideration should be given as to how the behaviour of those whose dogs, horses, and cycles cause problems for those who Wood Pigeon - Common breeding bird. Abundant in autumn. wish to enjoy the peace and tranquillity offered by Cannock Chase can be improved.

Wren - Abundant breeding bird. 3. The WMBC believes that greater consideration should be given to wildlife and habitat conservation when major events are planned on the Chase. Yellow Wagtail - Possibly bred in one sector. The WMBC looks forward to working with all those involved in the management of Cannock Chase. Why? perhaps In the implementation of these objectives? In pursuing these aims?

24 25 Ruth Hytch; Anne Walker and Joanne Bray, of the The Cannock Chase AONB Unit, with special thanks References to Emma Beaman (formerly of the AONB Unit), for assistance regarding the application for the West Midland Bird Club Annual Bird Reports 2012 and 2014 (Emley et al) Sustainable Development Fund

Nightjars and other breeding birds of Cannock Chase 1992 Nigel Baskerville, Stafford Branch WMBC. A huge thank you is also due to Sue Sheppard, the Biodiversity Officer of Staffordshire County Council. Nightjars and other breeding birds of Cannock Chase 1997, Richard Harbird and Frank Gribble Stafford Branch WMBC. Thanks in no particular order also to The National Trust, The Breeding Birds of Cannock Chase in 2002 J.S. Bennett, S. Welch and R.J. Jennett, Stafford Branch The BTO WMBC. The Forestry Commission The Breeding Birds of Cannock Chase in 2007 J.S. Bennett, Stafford Branch WMBC. the Management Committee of the West Midland Trust Cannock Chase Bird Survey 2012. S Petrek, Stafford Branch WMBC, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. Silvertrees Holiday Park

Birds of the West Midlands 1982 Graham Harrison, Alan R. Dean, Alan J. Richards and David Smallshire, Gareth Fenna and the team at the Cemex Rugeley Quarry WMBC. Julian Bulley and the team at Hanson’s Pottal Pool Quarry

The New Birds of the West Midlands 2004 Graham and Janet Harrison, WMBC. Peter Bell, Beryl and Paul Jeanes, John Harris, Grant Hames, Roy Ingley, Graham Mant, Ian Grant, Steve Richards and Mick and Rob Hayfield (SWT volunteers) WMBC and Regional BTO 2016/17 Regional Black Redstart Survey J.R. Winsper, WMBC and Steve Natural England particularly Jaclyn Lake, Chris Hogarth and Robin Gilbert Davies, Regional BTO. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust particularly Jonathan Groom, Jon Owen, and Hayley Dorrington Bird Atlas 2007-2011 The breeding and wintering birds of Britain and Ireland, Balmer, Gillings, Caffrey, Police Constable Lee Turner of Staffordshire Police Swan, Downie and Fuller. Valued advice has been given by Mike Shurmer of the RSPB The State of Birds in the UK 2016, Hayhow D.B., Bond A.L, Douse A., Eaton M.A. ,Frost T., Grice P. V., Hall C., Harris S.J., Havery S., Hearn R.D., Noble D.G., Oppel S., Williams J., Win I., Wotton S., 2017. RSPB, BTO, My thanks also to David Dodd (Chairman/Treasurer) of the Stafford Branch of the West Midland Bird WWT, DAERA, NE, NRW and SNH. Club and to the Management Committee of the WMBC in particular Humphrey Miller, Sue Judge, Kevin Clements (Chairman) and Jim Winsper (Vice President) for their help in the production of this report, and to Mike West (Health and Safety Officer) for trusting me to manage this Survey. Acknowledgements Special thanks to the late Frank Gribble, MBE, for his inspiration. I hope that we did you proud Frank! This Survey would not have been possible without the involvement of those who volunteered to Finally, as ever, thanks to my wife, Gill, without whom nothing that I do is survey sectors of the Chase and forward their findings to me. So special thanks go to: Chris Waring possible. and Nick Smith, Nick Pomiankowski and Russell Toon, Ian Jones, Kevin Postones, Clive Davies, Chris It has been a pleasure and an inspiration to work with so many like-minded friends and colleagues. and David Evans, Rob Swift, Simon Gough, Patrick Cluxton, Ian Ward, Steve Welch, Simon Oates, Jim Thank you all so much. Stewart, Gareth Morris, Chris and Arthur Bladon, Martin Godfrey, Rob Winstanley, Trevor Hardiman, Paul Bateman, Doug and Margaret Bell, Brian Malpass and Roy Smith

The report has been greatly enhanced by the photographs submitted to me by Margaret Bell, Arthur Bladon, Gareth Morris and Steve Welch Roger Broadbent WMBC Deputy Chairman My thanks also go to Staffordshire County Council; Stafford Borough Council and Cannock Chase Project Leader Council, whose officers have offered much good advice, and in particular WMBC 2017 Cannock Chase Survey Bill Waller of Stafford Borough Council Steve Barnes of Cannock Chase District Council Shona Frost of Staffordshire County Council, for all the help in providing copies of maps 26 27 West Midland Bird Club Founded in 1929 by a small group of enthusiasts headed by W.E. Groves, the Birmingham Bird Club, as it was then known, developed over the next 70 or so years into the society that exists today which covers the counties of Staffordshire , Warwickshire, the West Midlands and Worcestershire. In 2019 the Club will celebrate its 90th anniversary.

The WMBC manages four Bird Reserves. Belvide and Blithfield in Staffordshire, Ladywalk in Warwickshire and Harborne in Birmingham.

Indoor meetings are arranged through the club’s branch network currently in Kidderminster, Stafford and Solilhull. In addition WMBC field trips are organised each month from Birmingham to sites of birding interest.

Members receive a copy of the quarterly club Newsletter, WMBC News, and a copy of the highly regarded WMBC Annual Report, The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

To support the West Midland Bird Club is a positive step in conserving important habitat and ensuring the further development of our ornithological knowledge.

There are two levels of club membership Inclusive, which includes access to all four of the club’s reserves, and Standard, which excludes access to reserves, but gives all the other benefits of club membership.

This Survey was managed by the Stafford Branch of the West Midland Bird Club Chairman David Dodd. Project Leader Roger Broadbent Deputy Chairman West Midland Bird Club

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