Sponsored by Report on rare birds in Great Britain in 1985

Michael J. Rogers and the Rarities Committee with comments by A.R. Dean and S.J. M. Gantlett

his is our twenty-eighth annual report. ZEISS West Germany has again Tsponsored the work of the Rarities Committee. This continued financial support is most welcome, enabling the Committee to cope much more effectively with the processing and publication of records and to include an attractive selection of photographs and drawings in this report. The Committee has dealt with 894 records for 1985, 85% of which were accepted. A further 337 records for 1985 and earlier years are still being considered. Pre-1985 records which are still being dealt with are summarised below. Details of Committee membership and points of interest arising from its annual meeting in March this year were covered earlier in 'Rarities Committee news and announcements' {Brit. Birds 79: 450-451). Full details of the Committee's constitution and the procedures followed when considering records are given in a fact sheet, a copy of which can be obtained from the Secretary, Michael J. Rogers, whose address is at the end of this report. Also available from the Secretary is a list of the species considered by the Committee, and copies of the Rarities Committee Record Form, which should be used (or its format followed) when submitting reports. Please enclose a SAE when requesting any of these items. All reports of any species on the Committee's list should be submitted to the Secretary, preferably via the appropriate county or regional recorder.

Acknowledgments We wish to thank observers, regional and county recorders, and the bird observatories for their continued ready co-operation on which the work of the Committee is totally dependent, and without which this report would not be so complete and accurate. We are again grateful to the Irish Rare Birds Committee and the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee for permission to include their accepted records, and to their respective secretaries, Patrick Smiddy and Mrs P. M. Vizard, for supplying details. This co-operation enables the publication in one place of a complete review and running totals of all rarity records for the geographical unit of Britain and Ireland. Trevor Copp has again liaised over Channel Islands rarity records, and we are most grateful for his help: accepted records are included in the species comments, but not in the running totals.

526 [Brit. Birds 79: 526-588, November 1986] Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 527 The Committee is indebted to many individuals and organisations for special assistance during the year. A. R. Dean (passerines) and S. J. M. Gantlett (non-passerines) have shared the compilation of running species- totals and the writing of species comments this year; we are especially grateful to SJMG for taking on this task at short notice. P. G. Lansdown has monitored and periodically reported on the progress through the assess­ ment process of records for which decisions are long-awaited. The BTO, the NCC, the RSPB and the British Museum (Natural History), Tring, have liaised over various matters. The following have been consulted for advice or other assistance over particular records: C. D. R. Heard, Dr J. T. R. Sharrock, Lars Svensson and Claudia Wilds. Our report is again enhanced by photographs and sketches of rarities, and we thank the photographers and observers concerned. The inclusion of sketches and, particularly, photographs with submitted records is much appreciated, especially those when the only 'description' is of biometrics of birds in the hand. PJG

Pre-1985 records still under consideration Pre-1985 records with which the Committee is currently involved include several Little Shearwaters Pufftnus assimilis, four Madeiran Petrels Oceanodroma castro, two Long-toed Stints Calidris subrninuta, several South Polar Skuas Stercorarius maccormicki, three Lesser Crested Terns Sterna bengalensis, Egyptian Nightjar Caprimulgus aegyptius at Portland (Dorset) in 1984, two American Rock Pipits Anthus spinoletta rubescens, three Northern Mockingbirds Mimus polyglottos, two Short-toed Treecreepers Certhia brachydactyla, numerous Arctic Redpolls Carduelis hornemanni, two Pine Buntings Emberiza leucocephalos, and two Yellow-headed Blackbirds Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus. The Committee is also engaged upon reviews of both past and pending records of black-headed Yellow Wagtails Motacilla flava Jeldegg, Citrine Wagtails M. citreola, Olivaceous Warblers Hippolais pallida, Isabelline Shrikes Lanius isabellinus and Two-barred Crossbills Loxia leucoptera. Pre-1985 records still being investigated by the BOU Records Committee include White-headed Duck Oxyura leococephala at Bough Beech Reservoir (Kent) in 1979, Oriental Pratincole Glareola maldivarum at Dunwich (Suffolk) and Old Hall Marshes (Essex) in 1981, Grey-rumped Tattler Heteroscelus brevipes at Dyfi Estuary (Dyfed/Gwynedd) in 1981, Cliff Swallow Hirundo pyrrhonota on St Agnes and St Mary's (Stilly) in 1983, White-throated Robin Irania gutturalis on the Calf of Man (Man) in 1983, Varied Thrush Zoothera naevia at Nanquidno (Cornwall) in 1982, and Yellow-browed Bunting Emberiza chrysophrys at Holkham (Norfolk) in 1975. PGL Systematic list of accepted records The principles and procedures followed in considering records were explained in the 1958 report (Brit. Birds 53: 155-158). The systematic list is set out in the same way as in the 1984 report (78: 529-589). The following points show the basis on which the list has been compiled. 528 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 (i) The details included for each record are 'showing the characters' of the race (1) county; (2) locality; (3) number of birds if concerned. more than one, and age and sex if known (in (iv) The three numbers in brackets after the case of spring and summer records, each species' name refer respectively to the however, the age is normally given only total number of individuals recorded in where the bird concerned was not in adult Britain and Ireland (excluding those 'At sea') plumage); (4) if trapped or found dead and (1) to the end of 1957, (2) for the period since where specimen is stored, if known; (5) the formation of the Rarities Committee in date(s); and (6) observer(s) up to three in 1958, but excluding (3) the current year. The number, in alphabetical order. In accord­ decision as to whether one or more ance with our declared policy (see Brit. Birds individuals was involved is often difficult and 68: 1-4), the new county names have been rather arbitrary, but the consensus of used, and observers are asked to bear this in members is indicated by 'possibly the same' mind when submitting records. (counted as different in the totals), 'probably (ii) In general, this report is confined to the same' (counted as the same in totals), or records which are regarded as certain, and 'the same' when the evidence is certain or 'probables' are not included. In the case of overwhelming. An identical approach is the very similar Long-billed Limnodromus applied to records of the same species scolopaceus and Short-billed Dowitchers L. recurring at the same locality after a lapse of griseus, however, we are continuing to publish time, including those which occur annually indeterminable records, and this also applies at the same or nearby site. In considering to observations of pratincoles Glareola and of claims of more than one individual at the such difficult groups as albatrosses Diomedea same or adjacent localities, the Committee and frigatebirds Fregata. usually requires firm evidence before more than one is counted in the totals. A detailed (iii) The sequence of species, English breakdown of the figures for previous years is names and specific nomenclature follow The held by the Honorary Secretary. 'British Birds' List of Birds of the Western Palearctic (1984). Any sight records of (v) The world breeding range is given in subspecies (including those of birds trapped brackets at the beginning of each species and released) are normally referred to as comment.

White-billed Diver Gavia adamsii (18, 78, 3) Cornwall Sennen Cove, juvenile, moribund, 19th February, died in care, Mousehole Bird Hospital, 1st March, now at British Museum (per S. M. Christophers, VV. R. Hirst)(Bn'<. Birds 78: plate 98). Shetland Whalsay, adult, first seen 26th November 1983 (Brit. Birds 78: 532), to 6th May; returned 15th November to 1986 (Dr B. Marshall et al.). Due south of Holm of Burravoe, adult, 8th May (M. Heubeck). Burravoe, possibly first-summer, 13th May (M. Heubeck). Colgrave Sound, adult, 15th October (P. M. Ellis). 1983 Shetland Sandvoe, North Roe, long dead, 27th February (M. Heubeck et al.). (Arctic Russia eastwards to Arctic Canada) The Shetland records are typical, but the Cornish bird, whilst the second for Cornwall, is only the fourth south of Yorkshire. The year 1983 was already the best, and now has nine records.

Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbuspodiceps (0, 9, 0) Western Isles Loch na Liana Moire, South Uist, first seen 8th June 1983 (Brit. Birds 78: 532), 27th April (T.J. & Mrs C. Stowe, J. M. Tonkin), 22nd July (D. Odell). (North America) Sadly, the long-staying South Uist individual seems not to have stayed into 1986, and, with the disappearance of the famous Steller's Eider Polysticta stelleri (which graced the island from 1972 to 1984), South Uist no longer holds a unique attraction for the visiting birder. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 529 Black-browed Albatross Diomedea melanophris (2, 23, 0) Shetland Hermaness, Unst, first seen 1972 (Brit. Birds 78: 532), 10th March until late September (per D, Coutts), (Southern oceans) The fourteenth summer of residence for the Hermaness bird. If it's sitting there waiting for a mate to chance by, then it's a good job they're long-lived: the last new sighting was offCornwall in October 1982.

Capped Petrel Pterodroma hasitata (1, 1,0) 1984 Humberside Barmston, juvenile 9, long dead, 16th December (I. Forsyth, R. Lyon, D. E. Murray, P. M. Scanlon). (Haiti is only known breeding site; formerly widespread in West Indies, dispersing to adjacent seas) The only other Palearctic record is of one caught on a heath near Swafiham, Norfolk, in March or April 1850. The species is a candidate for upgrading from BOU Category 'B' (species not recorded within the last 50 years) to Category 'A' on the strength of this corpse; but for the earlier record, it would qualify only for Category 'D'. In view of its poor condition, there does seem a chance too that it was a ship-assisted corpse. A record about 300 nautical miles west of Scotland on 26th February 1980 (and published in Dutch Birding 5: 85-86) has been rejected by the Rarities Committee.

Little Shearwater Puffinus assimilis (5, 59, 1) Dumfries & Galloway Corsewell Point, Wigtownshire, 14th September (R. H. Hogg, P. McEwan, G.Mitchell). (Atlantic south from Madeira and Caribbean, and southern oceans) Also, two accepted as 'small shearwaters' (i.e. not quite certain Little Shearwaters) in Ireland: off Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 23rd June and at Bridges of Ross, Co. Clare, on 31st August. A number of earlier reports of this difficult species remain under consideration. The dates of these records are typical, but this is only the second record for Scotland. The year 1984 was the best, with four records.

Wilson's Petrel Oceanites oceanicus (4,6,1) (Southern oceans) None in Britain, but Ireland had its fourth record in 1985: at sea about 88 km southwest of Mizen Head, Co. Cork, on 17th August (Brit. Birds 78: plates 293-295). The recent interest in pelagic trips into the southwestern approaches may yet produce more records of this elusive species.

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus (15, 142,0) 1984 Yorkshire South Potteric Carr, 11th June to 16th August; pair raised three young (A. M. Allport, S. Boyes, R. P. Lambeetal.). (West Eurasia, Africa and Australia) This was the first proved breeding record for Britain, although it was strongly suspected in East Anglia in the nineteenth century, and also in southern England in 1947. Pairs have also summered in Surrey (1956), Somerset (1958), Huntingdon (1960) and possibly elsewhere. On average there were six records each year during 1971 to 1979, so it is perhaps surprising that breeding has occurred during 530 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 the 1980s which can muster only eight records in total to 1986. At least a female returned to Potteric Carr in 1985 (but full details have not yet been received); breeding did not occur again. The only completely blank years since 1959 were 1974 and 1982.

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax (165, 152, 3) Devon Lopwell Dam, adult, 6th to Mthjune (N.J. Cabblerta/.). Kent Stodmarsh, adult, I6th May (P. & Mrs F. Hamilton, D. Shakleton); presumed same, VVestbere, 18th (W. G. Harvey). Scilly St Mary's,juvenile, 11th to20th October (P.J. Grant etal.)(Brit. Birds 79: plates 32-33). (South Eurasia, Africa and the Americas) Apart from the exceptional 22 records in 1983, the average number of occurrences each year since 1970 is five. Since 1975, only 1984 (with two) and 1985 have produced less than four records.

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides (95, 23,1) Cornwall Bude, first-year, 10th April to 23rd May (L. G. R. Evans, J. C. Pett, G. P. Sutton et al.)(Brit, Birds 78: plate 368). (Southern Europe, southwest Asia and Africa) This becomes the earliest record by two days: the previous earliest was at Slapton Ley, Devon, on 12th April 1981.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis (2,31,1) Dorset See Somerset below. Somerset Sutton Bingham Reservoir and Lower Key area, adult, 22nd December to at least 26th January 1986 (M. A. Hallett etal.). (Almost cosmopolitan in tropics; nearest regular breeding in south of France) It is perhaps surprising that during the 1980s 13 out of the 14 records have been in winter (7th November to 5th April), the only record during the classic spring over-shoot time being from Cley, Norfolk, on 28th May 1983. Of the 23 records before 1980, only three were outside the period 15th April to 29th October. It seems likely that these recent winter records are of birds wandering as the species gradually spreads to breed farther north in Europe.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta (23, 323,33) Cornwall Marazion, two, 18th April (T. M. Came, G. Cockhill, B. K. Mellow). Gannel Estuary, 21st to 26th April (S. M., Mrs A. D. & Miss H, M. Christophers). Devon Charlton, Kingsbridge, at least 20th April (A. F. Doidge etal.). Otter Estuary, 21st April (M. Lockyer); presumed same, Powderham, 25th; Dawlish Warren, 26th (C. W. Stone et al.). Exe Estuary, juvenile, 20th to 30th August (M. D. & S. Elcoaterta^.). See also 1984 Devon below, Essex Hamford Water, 26th May (Dr S. Cox). Foulness Island, 7th July to 26th August, probably since 27th June (D. Bridges, A. R. Perkins, G. W7right et al.). Hampshire Fareham Creek, 5th September (Dr G. P. Green). Hayling Island, 14th September (K. Noble,J. Reaney etal.). Kent Dungeness, 18th April (P. W. Maton). Cliffe, two, 27th May (S. R. & Mrs J. R. Perry). Elmley and Capel Fleet, 15th June to 2nd July (R. I. Thorpe etal.). Man, Isle of Langness, at least 5th July (T. W. Edwards, Mrs B. M, Faulconbridge). Norfolk Hickling, 25th May (M.J. & Mrs S. F. Seago). Scilly St Mary's, 29th June to 2nd July, also Bryher, 30th June (Mrs V. A. Ellis, W. H. WagstafTria/.). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 531 Suffolk Minsmere, two, 28th May (M. Ball, B. Cooper); presumed one of same, Havergate, 29th (G. N. Megson), Felixstowe, 1st June (M. A. & Mrs S. G. Hall); Minsmere, 19th, 24th, 25th June (T. D. Charlton, J. H. Grant etal.); possibly same, Orfordness, 30th (C. P. S. Ruffles etal.). Shingle Street, 18th July (R. Waters et al.); same, Havergate Island, 18th July to at least 26th August (K. Bennett, M. Langman, G. N. Megson et al.). Surrey Staines Reservoirs, three, 27th May (F.J. Chandler, C. Watson, R. Wells). Queen Mary Reservoir, 3rd to 6th July (D. C. Bailey, A.J. Beasley, G. R. Green et al.). Sussex, East Rye, 18th April (MrsJ. Plumpton per Dr B.J. Yates). Warwickshire Coton Gravel-pit, Kingsbury, 20th to 21st May (S. M. Haynes). "Wight, Isle of St Catherine's Point, 19th April (P.J. Barden, P. Gandy, D. B. Wooldridge et al.). Yorkshire, West Fairburn Ings, 23rd May (P. Brill, B. Copley, G. R. Welch et al). 1984 Cornwall Tresillian, 23rd April (T. M. Carne, B. K. Mellow). See also 1984 Devon below. 1984 Devon Heanton Court, Taw Estuary, 11th September (M. Blackmore). Lopwell Reservoir, !5th to 17th August (Brit. Birds 78: 533), finders included MrsJ. Harrop. Same individual, Landulph Marsh (Brit. Birds 78: 533), locality is in Cornwall. Yealm Estuary, November (Brit. Birds 78: 533), present to at least 31st March 1985. 1984 Dyfed Taf Estuary, Carmarthenshire, 23rd April (L. & Mrs H. Sealy Lewis). Teifi Estuary area, Cardiganshire, about 24th April to 19th May (M. E. Baines, A. East et al.). 1984 Hampshire Farlington Marshes, 22ndJune (Brit. Birds 78: 533), first, Titchfield Haven, 15th (per E.J. Wiseman). 1984 Yorkshire, North High Butts Nature Reserve, Ripon Parks, 4th May (T. Scott, C. Slator, S. Worwood). (South Eurasia, Africa and Australia) Four in Ireland: at Lough Eyes, Co. Fermanagh, on 24th June; at Swords Estuary, Co. Dublin, 1st to 19th May; at Portmagee, Co. Kerry, 6th to 7th May; and at Fethard-on-Sea, Co. Wexford, from 10th to about 17th April. Also, one on Alderney, Channel Islands, on 29th August. Channel Islands records, however, are not included in the species totals. The increase continues: 1985 was bettered only by the quite exceptional influx of 47 in 1970. As the northward range extension continues in France, with the first breeding in Morbihan and Finistere in 1984 (Brit. Birds 77: 586), it may not be premature to predict that the first breeding in Britain is not too far away.

Great White Egret Egretta alba (10, 18, 5) Highland Gills Bay, Caithness, 18th to 19th June (Mrs P. M. Collett, Mr Sewards et al.), probably same as second Shetland individual. Norfolk Horsey, 12th and 15th July (B. Bland etal.). Shetland Burrafirth, Unst, 6th to 7th June (D. Gilbert, M. Sinclair, I. Spence et al.); differing individual, North Nesting area, 25th to 26th (D. Coutts, I. Sandison et al.), probably same as Highland individual. Suffolk Minsmere, 6th to 20th October (F. K. Cobb, G. J. Jobson, A. Lakinski et al.); same, Walberswick, 20th (R. Fairhead). Sussex, West Thorney Deeps, 15th June (C. B. & Mrs M. R. Collins). (Almost cosmopolitan, extremely local in Europe) There was none at all from 1951 to 1974, but since then records have been annual, except in 1975 and 1976. Five in a year is a new peak, reflecting the increases recorded in the Netherlands (where the first breeding record was in 1978) and France (Brit. Birds 72: 275, and 79: 285). There is some evidence that the Titchwell individual of 2nd October 1983 (Brit. Birds 77:511) was in Norfolk from mid September to at least 6th October, with brief but not conclusive sightings at King's Lynn and Wells respectively. 532 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Black Stork Ciconia nigra (26, 25, 4) Devon Thurlestone, 27th April (Mrs J. Huggins); same, Erme Estuary, 28th to 1st May (M. R. A. & R. E. Bailey etal). Humberside Spurn, 10th May (P. I. Holt). Scilly St Agnes, 28th to 29th August (R. C. Righelato et al.). Staffordshire Coombes Valley, 2nd June (P. Brown, K. Moore). 1984 Lincolnshire Frieston, 25th April (J. W. Fox, R. A. Spiers). (Iberia, and Eurasia from France to China, also southern Africa) The increase continues, with these typical records: the four in 1985 have been exceeded only once, by seven in 1977. There is also a record, concerning an adult and an immature together in Cumbria, still under consideration.

Glossy Ibis Plegadisfalcinellus (many, 25, 0) Kent Stodmarsh and Stour Valley area, two, since 1975 and 1979 respectively (Brit. Birds 78: 535), to 3rd February, one to 9th April; at least one, 25th October to end of year; one of same, Sheppey, 6th May to 17th August (per D. W. Taylor). 1984 Kent Stodmarsh, two, at latest 1st November to end of year (Brit. Birds 78: 535), present 13th October (C. M. Poole). (Almost cosmopolitan, nearest breeding colonies in Balkans) There have been no new arrivals since the one in Norfolk in October 1982.

Bewick's Swan Cygnus columbianus (0, 3, 3) (North America) Ireland maintains its monopoly of records of birds showing characters of the North American race C. c. columbianus (formerly known as 'Whistling Swan', but now lumped with Bewick's Swan C. c. bewickii, the species being renamed by the Americans as 'Tundra Swan'). There were three records in 1985: an adult at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, from 15th January to 27th February; and an adult at South Slob, Co. Wexford, from 3rd to late March, and again from 31st December into 1986. It seems possible that these three records all refer to the same individual, and, further, that all six Irish records (the first in December 1978) may relate to just two or three returning birds.

Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus (47, 68, 1) Merseyside Southport, first-winter, 19th January (M. S. Garner, W. S. Morton, A. M. Stoddart

Brent Goose Branta bernicla (1, 28, 7) Individuals showing characters of the North American and east Siberian race B. b. nigricans, colloquially known as 'Black Brant', were recorded as follows: Essex St Osyth, adult, freshly dead, 28th February (R. W. Arthur, Dr S. Cox). Kirby- le-Soken and Hamford Water, adult, 8th December to at least 5th January 1986 (Dr S. & Mrs P. A. Cox et al.). Kent Shellness, see 1984 Kent below. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 533

Figs. 1 & 2. First-winter Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser albifroru,Merseyside, January 1985 (above, W. S. Morton; below, A. M. Stoddari) 534 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Norfolk Cley area, adults, first seen 6th and 17th November 1984 respectively (Brit. Birds 78: 536), at least one to 10th March (per G. E. Dunmore). Possibly one of same, Burnham Deepdale, 5th May (G. Allport, M. O'Brien). 1982 Suffolk Boyton Marshes, adult, 3rd January (M. C. Marsh, S. Piotrowski). 1983 Essex Leigh on Sea, 6th November (Brit. Birds 77:513), last seen 11th March (C. Todd, G. Wright) and possibly same as one or other of Kirby-le-Soken individuals (Brit. Birds 78: 536). 1984 Essex See 1983 Essex above. 1984 Kent Sheppey, adult, 15th November to at least January 1985, two, 8th December to 1985 (A. T. M. Ruck, R. I. Thorpe etat.). 1984 Surrey Staines Reservoirs, immature, 27th October to 18th November (Brit. Birds 78: 536), to 23rd (per P. Naylor). (Arctic North America and East Siberia) In Ireland: at Strangford Lough, Co. Down, on 22nd September, and a different individual there from 3rd to 9th November; adult at Rogerstown, Co. Dublin, on 9th January; two at Carlingford Lough, Co. Louth, from 1st to 6thJanuary, one remaining to 12th January, and one considered to be that present in November 1984. There are also a number of late records from Ireland: two adults at Strangford Lough, Co. Down, from 10th to 18th November with one to 30th December 1978; adult at Strangford Lough, Co. Down, on 20th October and two there on 17th November 1979; Lough Foyle, Co. Londonderry, from 16th to 19th October 1980; two at Strangford Lough, Co. Down, from 25th October to 2nd November 1980; two at Strangford Lough, Co. Down, from late October to early November 1981; and two at Malahide, Co. Dublin, from 11th to 14th December 1984. Two late records come from Le Hocq, Jersey, Channel Islands: 9th December 1982, and 4th to 12th December 1984. Records from the Channel Islands are not included in the species totals. Seven presumed new individuals is bettered only by the nine in 1984. The increase is likely to be directly related to observer awareness: there were only four records before 1981.

Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis (15, 14, 6) Essex Shoeburyness area, 3rd February (M. F. Drake). Kent Shellness, adult, 7th January to 11th February (M. Edhem, R. V. White etal.). Chetney, adult, 19th January to at least 23rd March (T. E. Bowley, M. C. Buckland, P. VVorsley et al.). St Mary's Marshes, adult, 25th November to early 1986 (R. I. Thorpe et al.). Lincolnshire Leverton Marsh, 13th to 14th February (A. & D. Ball, S. Keightley); 17th (K. & R. Heath). Wrangle Flats, two, probably first-winter individuals, 23rd February (P. Beaumont, D. Hursthouse). (West Siberia) The increase continues, in line with the increasing number of records in Europe (Brit. Birds 73: 574; 75: 569; and 78: 639), but six within the space of two months is unprecedented; the previous peak was three in winter 1983/84. Winter flocks of Brent Geese B. bernicla are clearly worth checking carefully for this handsome Russian visitor.

American Wigeon Anas americana (22, 117, 11) Berkshire Thatcham, two first-winter 8 6*, two $ 9, 28th November to at least 28th January 1986 (A.J. Croucher, Dr R. L. Flood, K. V. Pritchard etal.), also Theale area, 6th December onwards (C. D. R. Heard*/al.). Cleveland Dorman's pool, S, 2nd June (T. Francis etal.). Glamorgan, Mid Kenfig Pool, first-winter or S, 29th October to 9th November (N. Odin et al.). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 535 Northamptonshire Ringstead Gravel-pits, eJ, since 1st November 1984 to 1st January (J. I. Blincow etal.); presumed same, Ditchford Gravel-pits, 20th November (S. P. Fisher). See 1984 Northamptonshire below. Scilly St Agnes, latterly also St Mary's and Annet, first-winter, 28th September to 24th October (R.J. Burness, N. E. Gammon, Mrs P. Walton etal.). Strathclyde Endrick Mouth, 6, 19th May (G.J. Brocketal). Warwickshire Kingsbury Water Park, 6, ISthJune (J. E. Fortey, P. Spencer et at.); same, Hams Hall, 16th to 18th (B. L. Kington), Lea Marston, 22nd (A. Curran). 1978 Grampian Near St Fergus, 9, 4th April, previously accepted (Brit. Birds 72: 513), but now considered unacceptable after review. 1981 Cornwall Skewjack, four, including at least two 66, 26th September (E. Griffiths, H. P. K. Robinson et at.). Hayle Estuary, at least five: probably four 66, 26th to 27th September (L. P. Williams etal.), presumed same as Skewjack individuals; at least one $, 27th (K. E. Vinicombtrf a/.); subsequently up to four 6 6 and 9 to at least 24th October, probably to 17th February 1982 (L. P. Williams etal.). 1982 Cornwall See 1981 Cornwall above. 1983 Northamptonshire See 1984 Northamptonshire below. 1984 Northamptonshire Ditchford, Ringstead and Thrapston Gravel-pits, 6, since 22nd October 1983 (Brit. Birds 78: 536), also Pitsford Reservoir, 28thJanuary (D.J. Burges et al.); presumed same, Ringstead Gravel-pits, 1st November to 1st January 1985 (J. I. Blincow et al.) and Ditchford Gravel-pits, 28th November (S. P. Fisher). (North America) Also, two in Ireland: a first-winter male at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, from 8th April to 22nd November; and a male at Tralee Bay, Co. Kerry, on 23rd November. Records have been annual since 1965, apart from 1970. The multiple arrivals in Berkshire and in Cornwall in 1981 (although the former may, perhaps, have been escapes) recall the flock of 13 at Akeragh Lough, Co. Kerry, in October 1968. Though it has been said that larger numbers were seen at Hayle in 1981, the Committee has, to date, received no acceptable substantiation of more than five. In addition, the 1980 individual on Tresco, Scilly, on which further full reports are still sought, remains under consideration.

Teal Anas crecca (13, 206, 16) Drakes showing the characters of the North American race A. c. carolinensis, colloquially known as 'Green-winged Teal', were recorded as follows: Cleveland Long Drag Pools, 31st March (A.J. & G. C. Tompsett). Cornwall Stithian's Reservoir, 26th December (S. C. Hutchings). Dorset Wool and Hole's Bay, 28th to 29th January and 14th February (M. Cade, D. R. Collins). Greater London Walthamstow Reservoirs, 28th February to at least 17th March (P. Fletcher et al.). Hampshire Fleet, 24th to 30th March (J. M. Clark, A.James, D. Unsworth etal.). Lincolnshire Gibraltar Point, 28th March (R. Lambert, P. & R. Palmer et al.), presumed same as 1984 individual (Brit. Birds 78: 537). Northumberland Holywell Pond, occasionally, 24th February to 20th April (C. Bradshaw, C. Hudson et al.); presumed same as Tyne & Wear individual below. Orkney Loch of Isbister, 8th January (E. R. Meek). Scilly St Mary's, first-winter, 23rd October to at least 21st November (C, D. R. Heard, Dr M. A. Woodhead el al.). Suffolk Minsmere, 7th July (T. D. Charlton etal.). Tayside Near Williamston, Madderty, 12th to 18th April (E.J. Maguire et al). Tyne & Wear Jarrow Slake, 21st February (D. Fullerton, T. I. Mills); same, Backworth, 22nd March (J. D. Holding), presumed same as Northumberland individual above. Western Isles Near Loch Portain, North Uist, 2nd to 12th April (S.J. & MrsJ. A. Riley et al.). Yorkshire, North Fairburn Ings, 16th February (G. R, & Mrs H.J. Welch). 536 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 1984 Devon Powderham Park, 22nd October to about 1st November (R. H. Montgomery el al). 1984 Yorkshire, North Long Preston, 4th to 9th March (B. Shorrock); presumed returning individual of 8th March 1983 (Brit. Birds 78: 537). (North America) Four in Ireland: male at Ballymacoda, Co. Cork, on 9th November; male at Marino Point, Cork Harbour, Co. Cork, from 23rd November into 1986; male at Bull Island, Co. Dublin, from 19th November into 1986; and male at Blackwater Callows, Lismore, Co. Waterford, on 17th November. A late 1984 record involved a male at Rahasane, Co. Galway, on 10th November. Some fairly typical records. A slight peak in early spring is noticeable.

American Black Duck Anas rubripes (1, 12, 1) Gwynedd Aber, 6", first seen 1979 (Brit. Birds 78: 537), to at least 29th January (R. Q. Skeen per T. Gravett). Lothian Tyninghame, 9, 9th February to 23rd May, 20th July, 31st August; paired with Mallard A. platvrhmchos; again present, spring 1986 (A. Brown, A. J. Clunas, P. R. Gordon el al.). (North America) Long-staying individuals almost seem to be the rule rather than the exception: as well as the above records, a female remained in Scilly from 1976 to 1983, and a male remained at North Kessock, Inverness, from October 1981 to August 1982.

Blue-winged Teal Anas discors (19, 102, 2) Northamptonshire Thrapston Gravel-pits, sex uncertain, 25th August to at least 13th September (D.J. Burges, N. McMahon etai). 1982 Dumfries 8c Galloway Logan, Stranraer, juvenile 6*, shot, 29th September (Sir N. Buchan-Hepburn, J. J. Dick); mounted specimen privately retained. 1984 Hertfordshire Stacker's Lake, 9, 20th to at least 27th April (Brit. Birds 78: 537), again 28th (R. I.Allison). (North America) Also one in Ireland: a female at Clonakilty, Co. Cork, on 23rd September. Records have been annual since 1966. The last ten years have averaged seven per annum, and this is the worst year since 1977.

Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris (1, 173,21) Avon Chew Valley Lake, 8, 18th May to at least 30th June (A. F. A. Hawkins, R.J. Higgins, A.J. Merrittf/a/.). Cheshire Frodsham, 6, 22nd to at least 24th August (M. S. Garner el al.). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 537 Cornwall Stithians Reservoir, 9, 12th to 24th October (S. M. Christophers, J. Dustow<Low Hauxley, 25th May (I. Fisher, I. Kerton, K. Reidetal.), Arcot Pond, 12dates, 17th August to24thOctober (M.J. Sharpe et al.). See also Tyne & Wear. Scilly Tresco, juvenile to first-winter 6*, 14th October to at least 17th November (D. N. Bake well et al.). Shetland Loch of Norby, ö", at least 7thjuly (C. Holt et al.). Strathclyde Martnaham and Kerse Lochs, Ayrshire, 3, 9th to lüth March (R. H. Hogg, Dr I. H. Leach, W. McKechnie). Surrey Frimley Gravel-pits, first-winter ö*, discontinuously 17th November to 15th December (K. B. VVills et al.); also Badshot Lea Pond, 15th and 21st to 22nd December, Ash Vale Gravel-pits, 23rd to 3 Ist December, Fleet Pond, Hampshire, 2üth to 23rd November (J. M. Clark et al.); still at Surrey localities to at least 16th February 1986. Tyne & Wear Seaton Burn, 3, Ist October (I. Morley perM.S. Hodgson), presumed same as Northumberland individual. 1980 Devon Slapton Lev. two 9 9, 9th March (Brit. Birds 74: 462), also 30th (S. M. Henson, J. A. Hopper, P. R. Wilcox). 1982 Dyfed River Tywi, near Bethlehem, 6", at least 25th January (Brit. Birds 77: 516), same as Dryslwyn individual, 20th to 27th December 1981 (Brit. Birds 75: 492)(D. V. H. Roberts). 1984 Gloucestershire Flaxley Pool, 3, 28th December to Ist January 1985 (Brit. Birds 78: 538), Anders were T. Baker, J. VVvllie. 1984 Suffolk Benacre, 3, 25th to 26th October (Brit. Birds 78: 538), finder was C. S. Waller. 1984 Yorkshire, South Potteric Carr, 3, 14th April (S.Boyes.R. P. Lambe, R.J.Scott etal.).

269. Male Ring-necked Duck Aythya co/laris. Co. Dublin, March 1985 (Brian Madden) 538 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 (North America) Six in Ireland: male at Carrigadroghid, Co. Cork, on 2nd March; male at Swords, Co. Dublin, from 2nd February to 7th March (plate 269); male at Lough Gur, Co. Limerick, on 28th March; female at Dawn River Reservoir, Co. Waterford, on 15th March; female at South Slob, Co. Wexford, from 28th February to 11th March, and a different female there from 24th March to 8th April. A late 1984 record involved a male at Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal, from 1st to 16th December. The best year since the peaks of 1979 and 1980, which produced 29 and 35 new records respectively. It is always difficult to be sure of exact numbers, however, because of wandering and returning individuals.

King Eider Somateria spectabilis (62, 111,4) Highland Embo, 6, 3rdjanuary to 16th February (G. N. Megson, R. Proctor et al. and per A. R. Mainwood). Loch Fleet, 6 6\ 3rd March to 10th May, two, 7th April to 10th May (P. Aley.J. F. Babbington, S.J. Coxetal.); 6*, 7th to29th August (per A. R. Mainwood). Golspie, 6*, 1st June (M. D. & Mrs L. Sutton, P. A. Wain), presumed one of above individuals. Shetland Lerwick, 9, 13th to 28th April (D. Coutts et al.). Fair Isle, 6\ 22nd and 25th May (C. D. R. Heard, K. B. Shepherd). 1983 Shetland Yell Sound, 9, 10th November (P.J. Ewins, R.J. Tulloch, R. M. Wynde). 1984 Shetland Due NW of Lumia Ness, 9, 17th April (P. M. Ellis, R. M. Wynde et al.). (Circumpolar Arctic) Also two together in Ireland: first-winter male and female near Belmullet, Co. Mayo, from 17th to 18th March. Two males have been recorded, on and off, at Golspie/Loch Fleet/Embo since 1975. Males have been seen annually since 1966, but females have been found annually only since 1982 (although they were also recorded in 1969, 1971 and 1973-75). It may be noted here that the Steller's Eider Polysticta stelleri recorded on South Uist, Western Isles, from 1972 to 1984 seems to have finally disappeared and was not seen in 1985.

SurfScoter Melanitta perspicillata (75, 168, 24) Clwyd Abergele, 6\ 31st December to 1st January 1986 (R. Bagguley, R. D. Corranrta/.). Dorset Portland, o*, 9th April (B. E. Slade et al.). Fife St Andrews, 6\ 4th January (P.J. Heath, S. L. Rivers et al.), 8th and 20th (R. Cleghorn, J. Grant); also in Lothian. Grampian Spey Bay, cJ and 9, 2nd February (S.J. Dougill, R.J. Safford,J. Young). Highland Glenelg, Wester Ross, <}, 10th June (Mrs I. Chase, DrJ. E. Murray). Lothian Gosford Bay, Coquet Island, first-summer d*, 30th May (B. Ellis). 1984 Dyfed Burry Port, immature, 6th to 7th October (Brit. Birds 78: 539), to at least 21st (R. I. Allison, N. Odin). 1984 Fife St Andrews, 6*, to 1st April (Brit. Birds 78: 539), also 4th (P. M. Potts et al.). 1984 Grampian Balmedie, 3, mid August (J. F. Riddoch). 1984 Gwynedd Llanfairfechan, 8, since December 1983 to 6th April (Brit. Birds 78: 539), again 11th (W. S. Morton). (North America) There were nine records in Ireland: male at Dundrum Bay, Co. Down, on 2nd November; adult male at Lahinch, Co. Clare, on 23rd March; female/immature at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 9th October; immature male at Murvagh, Co. Donegal, on 5th January; adult male at Rossknowlagh, Co. Donegal, on 5th January; two adult males at Murvagh, Co. Donegal, on 26th December, one to 27th December; six in Ballinskelligs Bay, Co. Kerry, on 3rd January, and a male there on 11th Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 539 October; and three adult males at Curracloe/Ballinesker, Co. Wexford, on 6th to 7th April. A late record from 1983 involved five adult males at Ballinesker, Co. Wexford, on 14th April. Only 1977, 1982, 1983 and 1984 have also produced double figures of presumed new individuals, with 20, 12, 28 and 36 respectively; but it is always difficult to know which are new and which are returning or wandering birds.

Black Kite Milvus migrans (5,67, 7) Derbyshire See Greater Manchester below. Durham Near Stanhope, 21st April (R. H. Holmes, C. Jewitt). Gloucestershire Symond's Yat, 15th May (I. D. Bullock, A. M. Stoddart, J. Wyllie); also seen Hereford & Worcester side of county boundary. Greater Manchester Mellor, near Stockport, 5th June (A. Broome et al.); also seen Derbyshire side of county boundary. Hereford & Worcester See Gloucestershire above. Humberside Spurn, 19th April (M.C. Dennis, S. Elliott, B. R. Spenceetal.). Kent Sheppey, 24th to 26th May (R. & Mrs A. Gomes, P.J. Oliver,]. Youngrf al.). Norfolk Snettisham, 24th June (T. Callaway). Langham, Wells and North Creake area, 12th July (S.J. M. GantlettJ. Hall, R. G. Millington etal). 1978 Nottinghamshire Osberton, Worksop, dead, about 27th May, apparently poisoned; mounted specimen retained by W. Fox, Osberton Estate (per D. Hursthouse). (Most of Eurasia, Africa and Australia) Another good year, but, as is usual, none of the birds settled in one area for very long. Only four of the 40 recorded since 1980 have been seen on more than one date.

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla (many, 11,3) Cleveland Boulby Cliffs, immature, 27th October (I. Boustead, P. Forster, N.Jackson), later seen in North Yorkshire. Humberside Spurn, adult, 31st May (M. Clegg). Flamborough Head, immature, 27th October (B. Armitage, J. E., J. M. & Mrs S. M. Dale, G. B. Silver et al.), later seen in Lincolnshire. Lincolnshire Saltfleetby, immature, 27th October (M. Mellor, J. Walton); same, Gibraltar Point, 27th (J. Torino et al.). Suffolk Benacre, first- to second- or second- to third-calendar-year, 12th November (J. C. Eaton), 28th November to at least 18th December (M. Bunn, J. H. Grant et al.); same, Walberswick, 13th November; Dunwich, 28th (per P. W. Murphy). Yorkshire, North Scarborough, immature, 27th October (R. H. Appleby, S. A. Stirrup elal), later seen in Humberside. 1982 Suffolk Martlesham Creek, 21st to 30thJanuary (Brit. Birds 76: 489), also 1st February (M.Crewe). 1983 Buckinghamshire Kingsley and Brill area, third- to fourth-calendar-year, 22nd November to 18th February 1984 (the late R. A. Cawthorne,J. H. Marchant, D. A. Seddonrt al.)(plates 270 & 271); also seen in Tiddington, Oxfordshire area. 1983 Oxfordshire See 1983 Buckinghamshire above. 1984 Buckinghamshire See 1983 Buckinghamshire above. 1984 Oxfordshire See 1983 Buckinghamshire above. (Southwest Greenland, Iceland and Eurasia) At present, there is insufficient evidence to link the southward-travelling individual of 27th October 1985 with either the Suffolk individual mentioned here or that at Titchwell, Norfolk, during 16th to 19th November, on which full identification details are still required. The one at Spurn seems to be the first adult recorded (apart from the re-introduction scheme on Rhum) since 540 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 at least 1958. The East Coast immatures are surely all genuine winter visitors from the increasing European population (Brit. Birds 78: 340 & 540)?

270 & 271. Third- to fourth-calendar-year White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla, Buckinghamshire: above, February 1984 (David Sadler); below, with Rook Conw frugilrgus. January 1984 (Tim Loseby)

Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni (11,9,0) 1979 Yorkshire, North Fairburn Ings, 6", 4thJune (S. C. Elliot, S. C. Madge). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 541 1983 Humberside Atwick, 6\ 14thJune (W. F. Curtis). (South Europe, west-central and east Asia and northwest Africa) There have now been nine records since 1926 (all except these two being between 1968 and 1974), but they remain as elusive as ever. These are the first in June, but there are now records for all months from February to November, except September.

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus (100, 269, 12) Cornwall Bearah Tor, Bodmin Moor, 9,2nd to 3rd June (B. & Mrs D. Inch, J. A. d'E. Miller etaL). Derbyshire Alton and Ashover Fabric, 2 or immature, 6th to 11th September (Miss E. R. Beardon, P. Buxton, P. Shooter et at.). Devon Lundy, second-calendar-year 9, 6th September (B.Jeffries, T. Sargeson). Soar, second-calendar-year, 19th October (P. Sanders). Essex Abberton Reservoir, 9, 31st October (C. & L. Cornwell, J. Miller). Grampian Auchmacoy,

Gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus (many, 79, 2) Devon Fernworthy Reservoir, immature, 18th to 20th February (R. Khan etaL). Exminster Marshes, immature, 13th to 16th March (C. M. Harper, D.J. Hopkins, R. H. Montgomery). Scilly St Agnes, immature, 2nd January (Mrs P. Crowther); same, Tresco, 6th, 17th, 19th to 20th (M, Goodey, M.J. Rogers, W. H. Wagstaffrf a/.); same, St Mary's, 12th February (M.J. Rogers). Probably same, Tresco, 7th April (A. R. & Mrs L.J. Coley). 1982 Cheshire Burton, probably immature, 10th November; same, Connah's Quay, Clwyd, 12th (Dr R.J. Raines

Little Crake Porzana parva (68, 28, 1) Sussex, East Cuckmere Haven, $, 6th to 16th March, probably since 3rd (J. Curson, B. A. GoodchitdJ. Lyesetal.)(Brit. Birds 78: plates99-101, 146). (Central and East Europe and West Asia) Another typically early-spring vagrant, there have now been eight March/April records since 1958. The year 1985 will be remembered with fondness by crake-watchers! This much-wanted bird performed at incredibly close range to hundreds of gathered admirers once news of its arrival broke onto the 'grape-vine'. It was so confiding in its chosen open ditch that it even clambered unconcernedly over the photographers' tripods.

Crane Grusgrus (many, 1063, 101) Cambridgeshire Ouse Washes, two, 20th April (T. Baker, I.Johnsonetal.); first-year, 27th to 1st May (T. Baker, R. W. H. & Mrs H. K. Garner, I.Johnson etal). Cornwall Porthgwarra, 11th May (G. C. Barnard). Dorset Lychett Maltravers, 28th April (B. W. Edwards). Essex Colne Point, four, 9th January (R. Jiggins, T. Runciman per Dr S. Cox), considered same as Norfolk individuals. Greater Manchester Chorlton area, first-year, 24th April (P. Berry, J. Gregory etal.). Hampshire Near Andover, 16th April (S. D. Dowel!). Highland Dalilea, Loch Shiel, 27thJune (S. Gray, S. Littlejohn, H. Millar). Kent Pegwell Bay, four, 10th January (D. Beadle); same, Sandwich Bay, 10th (R. Smith), considered same as Norfolk individuals. Dungeness area, first-year, 6th May (M. Bailey, S. P. Clancy, S. McMinnrfa/.). Folkestone, 71, 25thOctober (O. & P. French); same, Dungeness, 25th {M.J.Austin). Lancashire Carleton, two, 5th May (P. Guy). Lincolnshire Tetney, two, 17th May (D.Johnson). Norfolk Cley, 19th April (S. J. M. Gantlett, R. Robinson et al); first-year, 21st to 22nd (S. J. M. Gantlett, K. K. Harrison et at.). Holme and Titchwell, 21st April (V. Eve, J. Sheldrake. S. Stirrup et al.). Ouse Washes, first-year, 20th to 21st April (J. B. Kemp), presumed same as Cambridgeshire individual of 27th to 1st May, above. Heacham, first-year, 27th April to 5th May (H. Ramsey et al.), possibly same as Cley individual of 21 st to 22nd. East Coast area, four present throughout year except 7th January to 2nd February; juvenile, same area, 30th November onwards (per P. R. Allard). See also Essex, Kent. Orkney Greenay Hill, Mainland, 27th May (E. R. Meek). Shetland Fair Isle, 5th May (P. V. Harvey el al.). Strathclyde Near Port Askaig, Islay, 18th May (S. Hulka, M. Plenty). Suffolk Minsmere and area, 22nd and 25th May (T. D. Charlton, J. H. Grant, B. Stanley et al.). Western Isles Loch na Liana Moire, South Uist, 27th April (T.J. & Mrs C. Stowe). 1977 Suffolk Havergate, 24th May (Brit. Birds 71:498), was on 24th April and finder was R.I. Thorpe. 1979 Nottinghamshire/South Yorkshire Newington area, adult, at least 20tfi June to at least 1st July, last seen Lound, 13th September (Brit. Birds 73: 504), also Misson, Nottinghamshire, 7th July (M. C. Carr, S. M. Henson). 1984 Hampshire Farlington Marshes, three, 8th April (C. H. Wear); presumed same as Titchfield Haven and Ernsworth individuals, 7th (Brit. Birds 78: 542). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 543

1984 Humberside Blacktoft Sands, two, 26th April (A. Grieve). Near Spurn, 7th and 8th September, Sunk Island, 8th (Brit. Birds 78: 542), not present 7th but near Easington 9th and Sunk Island area to at least 15th (perS. M. Lister). 1984 Sussex, East Herstmonceux, first-year, 9th May (M.J. Stockman), probably same as Adur Levels, West Sussex, individual, 29th April to 9th May [Brit. Birds 78: 542). (North and central Eurasia, locally south to Turkey) Also, two in Ireland: adult at Boa Island, Lower Lough Erne, Co. Fermanagh, on 8th July; and a juvenile at New Inn, Tipperary, from 4th December into 1986. A typical scatter of records. The small group in Norfolk has been more or less resident since late 1979. This year, they almost certainly visited Essex and Kent briefly, but they have wandered in winter before. The flock of 71 in Kent is the largest number recorded since the classic invasion year of 1963 (when about 500 passed over southern England at the end of October).

Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis (1, 1,0) (North America, Cuba and northeast Siberia) None in Britain or Ireland, but it may be noted here that there was one at Akrabergi, Faroe Islands, on 14th October 1980. It seems that it may have been the same as the one present on Fair Isle, Shetland, from 26th to 27th April 1981 (Brit. Birds 76: 105-109); perhaps it over-wintered in Shetland?

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus (98, 87, 1) Cornwall East and West Looe Rivers, 2nd to 7th April (S. C. Madge el at.). 1984 Greater London See 1984 Surrey below. 1984 Surrey Perry Oaks Sewage-works (Brit. Birds 78: 542); locality should be treated as in Greater London. (Southern Eurasia, Africa and Australia) There have been a number of April records, but this one in Cornwall is the earliest ever, although one over-wintered in Lincolnshire in 1968/69.

Black-winged Pratincole Glareola nordmanni (5, 15, 1) Suffolk Minsmere, 5th July (N. Bostock, R. H. Chittenden, L. G. R. Evans, M.J. Palmer rf a/.). (West Asia) An Irish record, previously treated as an unidentified pratincole, has now been accepted as this species: at Ballycarry, Larne Lough, Co. Antrim, on 5th August 1974. All of the positively identified Black-winged Pratincoles have been between July and October, whereas the great majority of Collared Pratincoles have been in May-June. This Minsmere bird occurred on the day of a mass twitch there to see the Greater Yellowlegs which had arrived the day before, but, unlike that bird, it didn't stay as long as many would have wished.

Pratincole GlareolapratincolalG. nordmanni (36,66, 2) Essex Steeple, Blackwater Estuary, 8th June (R. G. Gibbs). (South Europe to West Asia and Africa) Collared Pratincoles were recorded annually from 1976 to 1983, except in 1979, but none has been positively identified in the last two years. The above totals include those specifically identified. 544 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Killdeer Charadrius vociferus (9, 32, 1) Hereford & Worcester Sink Green, Herefordshire, 1 Oth to at least 15th January (J. L. & Mrs J. V. Fox, A. Marchantrfa/.). 1983 Central Region See 1983 Lothian below. 1983 Lothian Bo'ness, 16th to at least 30th January (Brit. Birds 78: 544); locality is in Central Region and full dates were 16th January to 20th March (per I.J. Andrews). 1984 Berkshire Holyport, Maidenhead, 25th to 26th February (Brit. Birds 78: 544), also 3rd to 4th March (E. E. Green). 1984 Western Isles Askernish, South Uist, 30th December 1983 to 7th January (Brit. Birds 11: 521), was first-winter and also seen Kilvaley, South Uist, 22nd (P. R. Boyer). (North America, West Indies, Peru to Chile) One to five have been recorded annually since 1974, except in 1977. Winter records are normal.

Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii (0, 6, 1) Norfolk Cley and Blakeney Harbour, 30th July to 22nd August, 2nd September (S.J. M. Gantlett,J. Hampshire, R. Robinson el al.). (Southern Russia east to Mongolia) After the first in 1978, records were annual until 1982, but this is the first since then.

Lesser Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica (6,93, 13) With the exception of that in Humberside, all records apparently related to the North American race P. d. dominica. Cornwall Hayie, first-summer, 19th to 26th April (D. S. Flumm, L. P. Williams). Predannack Airfield, age indeterminate, 28th September to 1st October (R. Andrew, E. Griffiths, J. M. Randall et al.). Sennen, age indeterminate, 5th October (P. Harrison, V. R. Tucker et al.). Devon Winkleigh, juvenile, 13th to 14th October (M. D. & M.J. Preston). Gloucestershire Slimbridge, age indeterminate, 7th to 12th October (R. D. Goater, D. B. Paynter etal.). Humberside Fraisthorpe, age indeterminate but showing characters of Asiatic race P. d.julva, 26th January to at least 2nd February (S. M. Lister, D. Page, H.J. Whitehead et al.). Scilly St Mary's, first-winter, 1st January (W. H. Wagstaff), first seen 2nd November 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 545); adult, 3rd to 22nd August (Mrs E. Blackwell, C. & Mrs V. Ellis, W. H. Wagstaff et al.). St Agnes, juvenile, 7th October; same, St Mary's, 9th to 16th (F. R. Cannings, M. R. Leven«(a/.). Shetland Fair Isle, juvenile, 17th to 20th September (S. J. Aspinall, D. Coutts, N. J. Riddiford etal.). 1984 Cleveland See 1984 Tyne & Wear below. 1984 Humberside Blacktoft Sands, adult, 27thJune (P. Adams, A, Grieve). 1984 Kent Oakhamness Island, Medway, adult, 22ndJuly (Brit. Birds 78:544), also 23rd (per D. W. Taylor). 1984 Scilly See Scilly above. 1984 Tyne & Wear Dorman's Pool and Reclamation Pond, juvenile, 23rd August to 4th October (Brit. Birds 78: 545); localities are in Cleveland and was first identified at Greatham Creek, Cleveland, 22nd (A. L. Armstrong). (North America and Northeast Asia) Three in Ireland: juvenile at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, on 24th September; adult at Rosscarbery, Co. Cork, on 18th October; and juvenile at Shannon Harbour, Co. Offaly, on 5th October. The total of 13 equals the record year of 1984. This former great rarity has, in fact, been found annually in increasing numbers since 1967. The Humberside Julva record may well take on more significance as this distinctive race may be set for 'splitting' to fuil specific status. There are three previous accepted records of/afea: another from Humberside, and two (separate) from Lothian. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 545 Sociable Plover Chettusiagregaria (5, 20, 3) Kent Dartford Marsh, 8th March to 13th April (C. E. Bealey, S. F. Heathetal.)(Brit. Birds 78: plate 169). Sussex, West Steyning area, South Downs, juvenile moulting first-winter, 31st October to at least 30th December (C. M, & Mrs B.James, C. E. Messer, DrJ. A. Newnhamrfa/.). (Southeast Russia and west-central Asia) Ireland had its third record: at Blennerville, Co. Kerry, from about 23rd November to about 25th December. There were 16 between 1968 and 1980, but these are only the second, third and fourth since then. The over-wintering bird in Sussex recalls the one on the Suffolk-Essex border in 1977/78.

Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidrispusilla (1,42, 2) Humberside Easington Lagoon, adult, 13th August (N. A. Bell, M. Leakey, P. Shepherd et al.). 1982 Suffolk Felixstowe, first-winter, 30th October to at least 14th April 1983 (G. J. jobson, M. C. Marsh, D. Willis etal.). 1983 Suffolk See 1982 Suffolk above. 1984 Kent Elmley, adult, 21st to 23rd July (Brit. Birds 78: 545), last seen 26th (per D. W. Taylor et al.). (North America) Also, one in Ireland: a juvenile at Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, from 21st September to 3rd October. There are two late records from 1984 in Ireland: adult at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, from 4th to 5th July; and two juveniles at Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, on 15th October. Also, a late Irish record from 1982: at Bann Estuary, Co. Londonderry, in mid September (exact date not known). The 1982 Felixstowe bird, widely held by many observers to have been a Western Sandpiper C. mauri, finally gets accepted as Semipalmated! A paper giving the reasons for its identification is to be published shortly. Records have been annual since 1980.

Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla (6, 23, 0) (North America) None in 1985, but a previously accepted record from Toome, Co. Londonderry, on 24th August 1963, has now been rejected by the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee.

White-rumped Sandpiper CalidrisJuscicoUis (24, 247,8) Avon Severn Beach, adult, 12th to 13th September (P. D. Bowerman, P.J. Chadwick, B. Lancastlee/a/.). Grampian Ythan Estuary, adult, 31st August (Dr M. V. Bell). Rattray Head, 12th to 13th September (D. C. Butcher, R. A. Schofield, S. T. Spencer). Humberside Beacon Lane Lagoon, Spurn, adult, 7th to 11th August (P. Antrobus, N. A. Bell, S. M. Listeria/.). Lincolnshire Welland Estuary, adult, 25th August (P. Clement). Norfolk Pentney Gravel-pits, adult, 26th to 30th August (N. Bostock, A. Curl et al.). Titchwell, differing adult, 31st August, 1st and 5th September. (T. Francis, P. K. Greaves, D. Pagerta/.). 1980 Lothian Musselburgh, another, 6th to 14th August (Brit. Birds 74: 468), also 17th (A. Brown). 1983 Scilly Bryher, 24th October (Brit. Birds 78: 547), observers should include Rodney Allison not Richard I. Allison. 1984 Cheshire Frodsham, adult, 2nd July to 23rd August (Brit. Birds 78: 546), also 2nd to 3rd September (W.J. Low, N. C. Machin), 9th (S. M. Listeria/.). 1984 Greater London See 1984 Surrey below. 546 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 1984 Highland Wick, adult, 3rd to 5th August (K. W. Banks, S. Laybourne, S. A. Manson). 1984 Humberside Blacktoft Sands, adult, 27thjuly to 2nd August (A. Grieve et at.). 1984 Surrey Perry Oaks Sewage-works (Brit. Birds 78: 547), locality should be treated as in Greater London. (North America) One in Ireland: at Lough Foyle, Co. Londonderry, on 21st October. A late 1984 record from Ireland involved an adult at Lisagriffin, Co. Cork, from 24th to 25th July, and another late acceptance involves a record from Lough Beg, Co. Londonderry, on 28th October 1973. A poor year by recent standards: the average since 1977 has been 17 per annum. All records fell within the usual July to October period.

Baird's Sandpiper Calidris bairdii (5, 112, 4) Cheshire Weaver Bend, juvenile, 6th to 15th September (M. R. Gough, G. S. Spinks et al.)(Brit. Birds 78: plates 337-338). 1983 Cornwall Davidstow Airfield, juvenile, 15th September (I. Kendall, G. P. Sutton). 1983 Derbyshire Barbrook Reservoir, juvenile, 9th to 12th September (Brit. Birds 77: 523) was adult. 1984 Dyfed Nevern Estuary, adult, 10th August (R. Dobbins). 1984 Highland Wick, juvenile, 12th to 15th September (K. W. Banks, S. Laybourne). (North America and northeast Siberia) Three in Ireland: adult at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, from 6th to 10th September {Brit. Birds 78: plates 339 & 340); Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, from 17th to 24th August, and a juvenile there from 19th to 24th September. There has been an average of six per annum since 1974.

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata (5, 11, 3) Kent Elmley, adult, 27th to 28thJuly (S.J. Broyd, S. W. Gale, R. I. Thorpe etal.). Lincolnshire Holbeach Marsh, juvenile, 24th August (P. Clement). Lothian Aberlady Bay, adult, 17th August (G. Anderson, I.J. Andrews, P. R. Gordon et ai). (Northeast Siberia) Three in one autumn is unprecedented. Although annual during 1973-78, there were only two between 1979 and 1984. The Elmley bird is the first to be recorded in July. There are single records for January and April, but all the rest have been in August to October.

Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicolajalcinellus (23, 70, 6) Kent Elmley, 12th to 15th May (R. I. Thorpe, J. Young et at.). Norfolk Breydon Water, two, 17th to 21st May (P. R. Allard et at.). Orkney Brodgar, Mainland, 8th to 11thJune (E. R. Meek,J. B. Ribbands etal.). Shetland Pool ofVirkie, 20th to 23rd May (D. Coutts, DrJ. N. Darroch, A. Fitchett etal.). Warwickshire Lea Marston, 1st to 4th June (A. R. Dean etal.). 1972 Suffolk Minsmere, 7th May; 10th to 20th May previously accepted (Brit. Birds 66: 342), but now considered unacceptable after review. 1973 Norfolk Cley, 28th to 29th May, previously accepted (Brit. Birds 67: 324), but now considered unacceptable after review. 1982 Norfolk Cley, 26th to 28th May (Brit. Birds 78: 548), also 29th (K. Brown, S. M. Henson, J. A. Hopper). 1984 Humberside Blacktoft Sands, three: 18th May (A. Grieve); 28th to 1st June (A. Grieve, P. Martin, D. Pageetal.); 13th to 15th (A. Grieveetal.). 1984 Lincolnshire Saltfleetby, 19th May (B. M. Clarkson). (North Eurasia) Ireland had its fifth record: a juvenile at Broadlough, Co. Wicklow, from 7th to 8th September. The 1984 total reaches a record 12, including this remarkable series of three different individuals at Blacktoft. Before 1982, no year had produced more than three. The now Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 547 rejected birds from East Anglia in 1972 and 1973 were almost certainly Dunlins Calidris aipina; identifications easier to achieve in retrospect now that Broad-billed Sandpiper is so much better known.

Stilt Sandpiper Micropalama himantopus (1, 14, 2) Kent Dungeriess, adult, 22nd August (N. R. Davies el at.). Suffolk Minsmere, adult, 4th to 10th May (D.J. Bowes, G. W. & R. Follows, S.J. M. Gantlett elal.) (fig. 3). (North America) The long-staying one in Cheshire in 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 549) must have got itself onto hundreds of life-lists but the second to be recorded at Minsmere also stayed long enough for it to be widely appreciated. Most have been in July to September; the Minsmere bird was the first to have turned up in May.

Fig. 3. Adult Stilt Sandpiper Micropalama himantopus, Sullblk, May 1985 (Trevor Charlton)

Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis (33, 412, -) 1981 Cornwall Sennen, 30th September to 1st October (N. M. Butler, S. P. Fisher, S. C. Hutchings el at.). (North America) No longer considered by the Committee, but this record takes the 1981 total to 16. A late record also comes from Ireland and involves one at Lough Beg, Co. Londonderry, on 5th September 1976.

Great Snipe Gallinago media (180, 53, 1) Shetland Fair Isle, 30th August to 7th September (D. R. Bird, N. J. Riddif'ord, D. Suddabv el at.). 1983 Humberside Near Barton-on-Humber, 23rd to 24th March (I. Lonsdale, R. Lyon). (Northeast Europe and Northwest Asia) A late record from Ireland involved one at Dursey Island, Co. Cork, on 22nd October 1983. There has been one on Fair Isle in September in four out of the last five years, during which time there have been only three records elsewhere. 548 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus (4, 0, 1) (North America) None in Britain, but one in Ireland: a juvenile at Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, from 30th September to 2nd October. This is the first record accepted since the identification characters have been better understood {Brit. Birds 78: 506). The last accepted record prior to this was in Norfolk in 1957, but this pre-BBRC record and three old specimen records (1862, 1872 and 1902) are still under review by the BOU Records Committee {Brit. Birds 74:471).

Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus (9, 88, 8) Cornwall Davidstow, juvenile, 21 st to 25th October (G. P. Sutton el al.)(Brit. Birds 79: plates 5-6). Dumfries & Galloway Caerlaverock, juvenile, 1st to 9th October (DrC. D. Campbell, R. H. Hogg, G. Macdonald Hal.). Essex Heybridge Gravel-pits, juvenile, 29th September to 5th October (J. Fitzpatrick et at.); presumed same, Old Hall Marshes, 15th October (G. B. Browne/ai). Gloucestershire Slimbridge, juvenile, 26th September to 18th October (L. P. Alder, R. D. Goater, M. Smart etal.). Gwent Peterstone Wentloog, age indeterminate, 14th September (C.Jones, N. Odin). Scilly St Mary's, first-winter, 19th to 24th December (Ms C. A. Mumford, M. J. Rogers, W. H.WagstaffVZa/.). 1984 Cornwall Davidstow, first-winter, 21st to at least 29th October (A. H.J. Harrop etal). (North America and Northeast Siberia) Two in Ireland: at Lough Beg, Co. Londonderry, on 10th April; and a juvenile at Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, from 25th September to 4th October. An about average year. Over-wintering records are not that unusual, but mid December does seem an odd time for an arrival in Scilly.

Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus/L. scolopaceus (31, 188, 12) Sussex, East Willingdon Level, age indeterminate, 28th December (J. H. Marchant). (North America and Northeast Siberia) In Ireland, one at Bann Estuary, Co. Derry, from 29th September to 1st October, and one at Kilcoole/ Newcastle, Co. Wicklow, from 15th to 20th October. Records from Alton Water, Suffolk, and other Suffolk and Essex localities are still under con­ sideration by the Committee. The above totals include those specifically identified.

Little Whimbrel Numenius minutus (0, 1, 1) Norfolk Blakeney, Cley and Salthouse area, age uncertain, 24th August to 3rd September (P. Antrobus, J. Gregory, R.J. Walker etal.) (plate 272). (Central and Northeast Siberia) Found on a bank-holiday weekend by birders looking for the Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii; news spread like wild-fire and within two hours 400 birders were watching it. Over the whole weekend, it was estimated that more than 3,000 people had seen it, making it surely the biggest twitch ever! The only other British record was at almost exactly the same time of year, at Sker, Mid Glamorgan, from 30th August to 6th September 1984 {Brit. Birds 76: 438-445). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 549

272. Little Whimbrel Numenius minutus, Norfolk, August 1985 (D. M. Cottridge)

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis (12, 44, 3)

Fig. 4. Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis, Northumberland, July 198!) (M. G. Watson) 550 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Humberside Spurn, 21st August (N. A. Bell), Norfolk Near Wolferton Marsh, 19th to 25th May (T. Callaway, N, J. Holtoti et al.). Northumberland Hauxley Pools and Cresswell Pond, 13th to 15th July (K. D. Shaw, M. G. Watson et al.) (fig. 4). 1984 Kent Elmley, at least 23rd April (Brit. Birds 78: 550), to 2nd May (per D. W. Taylor); presumed another, 16th June (D. Belshaw, R. I. Thorpe et at.); presumed another, 8th to 19th August (J. Gooders, W. E. Oddie et al.). 1984 Norfolk Titchwel'l 25th May (Brit. Birds 78: 550), finder wis-W. T. Appleyard. Cley, 16th August to at least 3rd September (Brit. Birds 78:550), also 4th (B. & Mrs E. Kerr, Dr I. H. Leach etal.). 1984 Sussex, West Waltham Brooks, 8th to 11th July (J. Dixon, Dr M. E. Kalaher, A.J. Prater et al.). (Southeast Europe, and West and East Asia; has recently bred in Finland) Records have been annual since 1976, with an average of four per annum. The series of three apparently different individuals at Elmley in 1984 is noteworthy.

Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca (12, 14, 2) Highland Loch SHgachan, Skye, 19th May (W. T. Appleyard). Suffolk Minsmere, discontmuously, 4th July to 14th August (I. Boyd, T. D. Charlton et at.). (North America) There have now been just eight in Britain since 1958. The Skye record is the first in spring, apart from one which apparently over-wintered in Co. Kerry in 1982/83. The long stay of the Minsmere bird was much appreciated, but it could also be aggravating at times as it disappeared for days at a time.

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringaflavipes (35, 150, 2) Norfolk Hickling, 24th to 27thJune (I. Haynes, S. E. Linsell). (North America) Also, one in Ireland: a juvenile at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, from 6th November into 1986. A late 1983 record involved one at Ballycotton, Co. Cork, on 13th October (in addition to one there from 7th to 14th October). The first blank autumn in Britain since 1960. The average since 1976 has been seven, and since then only 1979 has produced so few records.

Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria (6, 17, 1) Scilly St Mary's, 30th August (M. Goodey et al.). (North America) Of the 12 since 1974, six have been in Scilly.

Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus (3, 21, 0) 1983 Hampshire Langstone Harbour, 9th to 11th July (R. I. Thorpe, J. M. Walters). (Northeast Europe and Siberia) The last record came from the same locality, on 23rd May 1984, so it seems possible that one returning bird was involved. One or two have been seen in all but three of the last 15 years. The year 1985 was the first blank since 1980.

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia (6, 71, 1) Scilly Tresco, adult, 4th to 21st October (H. Mittendorf et al.). 1983Orkney SuleSkerry, adult, 30thjuly to4th August (T. Bagworth, G. Barker, A. Lowe). 1983 Scilly Tresco, juvenile, 16th to at least 19th September (the late D. B. Hunt, R. Still el al.). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 551 1984 Dorset Stanpit Marsh, juvenile, 14th September (G. Armstrong). 1984 Yorkshire, South YVorsborough Reservoir, Barnsley, adult, 29th July to 5th August (J. D. H. Brown, M. & T. Kilburn el al.)(Bril. Birds 77: plate 241). (North America) A late record from Ireland involves a juvenile at Union Hall, Co. Cork, on 28th September 1978. The average for the last ten years has been four, and this is the poorest year since the blank year of 1972. It has been suggested that the 1984 South Yorkshire bird might have been an annually returning individual, since an adult has been recorded in that region each autumn since 1981.

Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor (1, 174, 13) Avon Chew Valley Lake, first-winter, 16th to 18th October (A. F. A. Hawkins, R.J. Higgins, D. Lawrence?/at). Cleveland Long Drag Pools and Reclamation Pond, juvenile moulting to first-winter, 26th August to 10th September (T. Francis, P. Hinley el at.). Cornwall Landulph Marsh, first-winter, 4th to 6th October (P. Edmonds, A. H.J. Harrop, M. D. Rayment ?/«/.). Devon Moorstone Barton, Cullompton, adult, 11th to 12th August (J. Maunder, Dr R. W. Whittesley). Gloucestershire Slimbridge. juvenile moulting to first-winter, 14th September (R. D. Goater, D. B. Paynter), probably same as Hereford & Worcester individual below. Hereford & Worcester LTpton Warren, 14th September (A. Shaw). Lincolnshire Covenham Reservoir, juvenile moulting to first-winter, 19th to 21st August (K. Robinson ttal.). Lothian Aberlady, age indeterminate, 31st August (K. Heron el at.). Northumberland Cresswell Pond, first-winter, 1st September (L. Hall, K. W. Regan el al.). Sussex, East Rye, first-winter, 9th October (W. B. Marrison, Dr B.J. Yates el al.). 1980 Cheshire Northwich, juvenile moulting to first-winter, 27th September to 4th October (D. & R. Elphick, T. E. Helvin). 1984 Cambridgeshire Grafham Water, first-winter, 7th to at least 9th October (Brit. Birds 78: 552), also 10th (M.J. Palmer). Ousc Washes, 29th October to at least 3rd November (Brit. Birds 78: 552), again 4th (L. G. R. Evans), 13th (S.J. Dodgson, P. A.J. Morris). 273. Juvenile Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor, Co. Cork, September 1985 (Barry 0 'Mahony) 552 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 1984 Lincolnshire Anderby Creek, 3rd October (Brit. Birds 78: 552), not same as Gibraltar Point individual, 11th September to 5th October (per G. P. Catley). (North America) Four in Ireland: juvenile (trapped) at Lough Beg, Cork Harbour, Co. Cork, from 4th to 12th September (plate 273); juvenile. Swords Estuary, Co. Dublin, from 12th to 29th September; juvenile, Bull Island, Co. Dublin, on 23rd September; and juvenile at Tacumshin, Co. Wexford, from 22nd August to 27th September. An about average year. For American waders as a whole, this was a poor year in terms of number of individuals, yet it was the best year since 1975 in terms of variety, with 16 species (including Pectoral Calidris melanotos and Buff-breasted Sandpipers Tryngites subruficollis).

Laughing Gull Lams atricilla (2, 41, 0) Tyne & Wear Newcastle General Hospital area, second-winter, throughout January- February to 18th March, also near Jesmond Dene, Newcastle, 23rd January, Tynemouth, 16th May; presumed same, now adult, Newcastle General Hospital area, 4th November to at least March 1986 (per M. S. Hodgson). See also 1984 Tyne & Wear below. 1983 Humberside Humberside Wildfowl Refuge, adult, 5th September (T. E. Dixon). 1984 Tyne 8c Wear North Shields, first-winter, 11th to 12th February (Brit. Birds 78: 554), first seen Blaydon, 22nd to 25th January (B. Galloway, I. Kerr, B. Little it at.); also at Newcastle General Hospital on 17th March, 4th April. (North America) Since 1974, only 1976, 1982 and 1985 have failed to produce any new records; the average for the last ten years has been three. The Newcastle bird has stayed on into 1986, its fourth year of residence.

Franklin's Gull Laruspipixcan (0, 10, 1) Western Isles North Boisdale, South Uist, adult, 6th to 14th August (T.J. Stowe, M. Tonkin etal.) (plate 274). (North America) The second oc­ curred as recently as 1977, but since then one or two have been seen annually, except in 1979. This is the third for Scotland, and the first record in August.

274. Franklin's Gull Larus pipixcan, Western Isles, August 1985 (A/. C. Dennis)

Bonaparte's Gull Larus Philadelphia (11, 36, 1) (North America) None in Britain, but one in Ireland: an adult at Wexford Harbour, Co. Wexford, on 8th April. One to five have been recorded annually since 1979. There have been only three blank years since 1967(1974, 1976 and 1978).

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis (0, 356, 100) Avon Barrow Gurney Reservoir, second-year, 16th February (T. E. Bond, M. G. Chaffey). Chew Valley Lake, first-year, 10th March: adult, 16th to 20th (K. E. Vinicombe et a/.); second-winter, 27th (A. D. Whatley). Cornwall Drift Reservoir, first-winter, two, 5th January, one to 6th (H. P. K. Robinson). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 553 Helston, first-winter, 13thjanuary (B. R. Field, A. H.J. Harrop etal.); adult, 23rd January (M. P. Semmens). Siblyback Reservoir, adult, 30th January; first-winter, 8th February (P. G. Akers, D. J. Chown); another adult, 9th February (P. G. Alters, D. J. Chown, J. A. d'E. Miller). Par, two adults, 10th February (P. G. Akers, D.J. Chown). Padstow, first-winter, 13th to 14th and 23rd February (P. G. Akers, D.J. Chown, M. A. Hallett). River Lynher, first-winter, 27th February (S. C. Madge). Sennen, first-winter, 9th March (H. P. K. Robinson). Hayle, first-winter, first seen 7th December 1984 (Brit. Birds 78:554), irregularly to 25th February, again, 6th May (D. S. Flumm et al.); second-winter, 1st to 3rd March (J. Hawkey, G. C. Hearl, L. P. Williams); first-winter, 3rd to 11th March (D. S. Flumm, J. Hawkey et al.); second-winter, at least 16th October (L. P. Williams et al.). Marazion, second-winter, 2nd and 16th March (W. R. Hirst, L. P. Williams). Millbrook, first-summer, 6th to 8th March, 1st April to 6th May (K. Pellow et al.), same, as second-winter, 27th December (S. C. Madge); also seen in Devon; adult, 16th November to 1st December (A. H.J. & Mrs J. Harrop, S. C. Madge et al.). Swanpool, Falmouth, adult, 18th to 23rd December (A. R. Pay). Devon Slapton Ley, first-winter, 11th February (J. C. Nicholls). Plymouth Hoe, first-winter, 15th to 16th January and 12th February (J. F. Babbington, R. M. Belringer, R. Crossley et al.).; another first-winter, 29th March (P. Carthy, A. H.J. Harrop), and 4th April (P. A.J. Morris, C. M. Pooled al.). Plymouth, first-winter, intermittently, 27th January to at least 8th May (P. Aley, B. R. Field, M. D. Rayment et al.), also seen at Millbrook, Cornwall, inter­ mittently, 7th March to 7th May. River Plym, adult, 3rd to 4th April (J. F. Babbington, B. R. Field, A. H.J. Harrop*/ al.). Paignton, second-winter, 12th December to at least January 1986 (M. R. A. & R. E. Bailey, M. Langman). Preston and Hopes Nose, see 1984 Devon below. Dorset West Bexington, adult, 17th March (P. G. Akers, D.J. Chown, M. A. Hallett). Dyfed Llanstadwell, adult, 6th to 13th February (G. H. Rees et al.). Aberystwyth, adult, 28th March (H. W.Roderick). Essex Leigh-on-Sea, second-winter, 13th to at least 17th August (P. M. Griggs, J. Miller el al.) (plate 275). Glamorgan, South Roath Park Lake, Cardiff, adult, 18th to 27th December (K. R. Lloyd, N. Odin et al.), presumed same, Llanishen Reservoir, 27th (R. H. Harrop, N. Odin) and 30th (P. Bristow). Grampian Kingston, Moray, adult, 29th December (M. J. H. Cook). Greater London Barn Elms Reservoirs, first-winter moulting to first-summer, 19th April (R. E. Innes). Lothian Musselburgh, first-winter, 2nd April (C. C. McGuigan et al.); presumed same, moulting to first-summer, 7th April to 1 st May (A. Brown etal.). Northumberland Boulmer, first-winter, 15th April (B. Galloway). Somerset Sutton Bingham Reservoir, adult, 18th to 19th December (D. J. Chown, R. Newton). Strathclyde Munnoch Reservoir, Ardrossan, Ayr, adult, 9th and 13thJanuary (J. L. Burton, E. Leyden, D. M. Watt). Doonfoot, Ayr, adult, 21st to 24th February (R. H. Hogg, H.J. Miliaria/.). Suffolk Trimley Lake, second-winter, 28th September (J. R. Askins). Sussex, East Crumbles, Eastbourne, second-winter, 15th to 25th December Q. F. & Mrs D. Cooper, R. K. Haggar «<«/.). Sussex, West Shoreham-by-Sea, first-winter, 11th and 22ndJanuary (K. Noble, A.J. Prater etal.). 1983 Dorset Radipole, first-winter, 4th December to January 1984 (Brit. Birds 77: 538), remained until mid July (per M. Cade). 1984 Cornwall Hayle, 7th December (Brit. Birds 78: 554), see 1985 above. 1984 Cumbria Ramsdale, adult, 23rd December {T. Dean et al.). 1984 Devon Preston and Hopes Nose, first-winter, 27th December to 4th April 1985 0. C. Nicholls etal.). 1984 Dorset Radipole, adult, first seen 28th December 1983 {Brit. Birds 77:530), again, 4th to 5th February 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 555), involved two individuals, that from 1983 staying to 11th April 1984, the other only on 4th to 5th February 1984 (M. Cade, G. Walbridge et al.). West Bexington, adult, 21st December (Brit. Birds IB: 555), not to be considered same as Radipole individual (per D.J. Chown). 1984 Dyfed Aberystwyth, two, possibly three adults; single sightings, 1st to 5th March, 7th to 554 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 8th, llth, 13th, 15th, two 29th; one ol'same, 3rd April (Brit. Birds 78: 555); oneofsame, 18th March (C. C. McGuigan, A. M. Stoddart elai). 1984 Glamorgan, Mid See 1984 West Glamorgan below. 1984 Glamorgan, South Roath Park Lane (Brit. Birds 78:555) should read Roath Park Lake. 1984 Glamorgan, West Kenfig Pool and Sker Point, first-winter, 4th to 5th December, localitv is in Mid Glamorgan. 1984 Glamorgan, WestBlackpill, adult, 13th to 17th April (R. H. Davies, S. Murray, I. F. Tew), additional to those already published (Bril. Birds 78: 555). 1984 Gwent Llandegfedd Reservoir, adult (Brit. Birds 78: 555), seen onlv on 19th (P. A. Dean, C.Jones) and 29th (L. \V. Austin, S..J. Hayhow, N. Odin). 1984 Northamptonshire Ditchford Gravel-pits, adult, 29th March (S. P. Fisher). 1984 Strathclyde Doonfbot, Ayr, first-winter moulting to first-summer, llth April, pre- viously rejected [Bril. Birds 78: 587), now accepted alter review. (North America) A total of about 58 was recorded in Ireland in 1985: at Belfast Harbour Estate and Whitehouse, Co. Antrim/Co. Down, three adults noted at the end of 1984 increased to eight on 12th March (all adults) with one still there on 6th April, but a new bird (a first-year) from lOth to 25th April. Two adults present there again from 18th November, with a second-year from 23rd November, and a new second-year from 22nd December: making a total of four present into 1986; adult at Lurgan, Co. Armagh, on 27th January; adult at Newcastle, Co. Down, from late 1984 until 14th January 1985, present again from 17th November into 1986; adult at Bann Estuary, Co. Londonderry, on Ist September; adult and a second-winter at Ballyallia Lake, Co. Cläre, on 5th February; a first-winter at The Lough, Co. Cork, from 14th January to 22nd February, with two first-winters there on 19th January, and an adult there from 19th January to 22nd February; adult at Little Island, Co. Cork, on 16th February; a first-winter at Rosslague, Cork Harbour, Co. Cork, on 17th March; a

275. Second-winter Ring-billed Gull Larus delawartnsis, Essex, August 1985 (J. Miller) Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 555 first-summer at Courtmacsherry Bay, Co. Cork, on 21st April; juvenile at The Lough, Co. Cork, from 20th September to 29th December, a second- winter there from 10th November into 1986, a first-winter there from 26th December into 1986, and an adult there from 29th December into 1986; adult, Clonakilty, Co. Cork, on 26th December; a first-winter at Sandy- mount, Dublin, from 3rd January to 8th July, another first-winter there from 3rd January until 24th July, a second-winter there from 12th January to 9th July, another second-winter there from 28th February to 9th July, adult there from 26th March to 11th April, a first-summer there from 8th June to 8th August, adult there on 18th October, a first-winter there from 1st to 2nd November, and a second-winter there on 24th December; four adults at Gal way Docks, Co. Galway, on 10th March, with one present on 9th March; a first-winter at Caherciveen, Co. Kerry, on 3rd January; adult at Blennerville, Co. Kerry, on 23rd February; a first-summer and a second- winter at Dingle, Co. Kerry, on 24th August; two adults and two second- winters at Limerick City, Co. Limerick, on 17th March, with one adult there from 9th February to 3rd April and one adult there on 30th March, also a second-winter there on 23rd November; three first-winters at Bel- mullet, Co. Mayo, on 17th March, one remaining to 18th March; two adults at Sligo Harbour, Co. Sligo, on 29th December, one remaining into 1986; a first-winter at Kinsalebeg, Co. Waterford, on 13th January; a first-winter at North Slob, Co. Wexford, on 5th May; and a second-winter at Wexford town, Co. Wexford, from 14th December into 1986. A late 1984 record involved an adult at Clonakilty, Co. Cork, from 10th to 14th August. Also, a late 1984 record from Le Hurel, Jersey, Channel Islands: adult on 30th November. Numerous further records, including six in Dorset and at least ten in South Wales, remain to be considered by the Committee. A paper analysing the occurrence patterns of this species has recently been published (Brit. Birds 78; 327-337). In 1985, records just reached three figures for the first time, making this now by far the commonest species considered by the Committee. It might seem that Ring-billed Gull is set for dropping from the list of species considered, but this is unlikely whilst the rejection rate (41% in 1985) is so high. This is always a difficult species to identify and requires careful observation, but the Committee notes that there is a problem particularly with second-year Herring Gulls L. argentatus being claimed as first-year Ring-billeds. Observers are urged to take extreme care when identifying this species: the essential reference is P.J. Grant's Gulls: a guide to identification (2nd edn, 1986).

Iceland Gull Lams glaucoides (0, 5, 1) Individuals showing the characters of the North American race L. g. kumlieni, colloquially known as 'Kumlien's Gull', were recorded as follows: Grampian Banff Bay, adult, showing characters of North American race L. g. kumlieni, 17th March (Miss K. M. D. Bushby, J. G. Steele). (Baffin Island and northwest Ungava Peninsula, Canada) A late record from Ireland involves an adult at Portavogie, Co. Down, from 2nd to 4th 556 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 January 1981. Records have been annual since 1981, except for 1984; surely they were overlooked before?

Ross's Gull Rhodostethia rosea (2, 41, 2) Strathclyde Ayr Harbour, adult, 2nd to 3rd February (A. A. Murray et a/.). 1984 Highland Thurso, adult, 12th November 1984 to at least 7th January (Brit. Birds 78: 558), also 19th (S. Laybourne). (Northeast Siberia, Greenland and Canada) Also, one in Ireland: a first-winter at Cobh, Co. Cork, on 24th February. Some typical records: two is about average for the last ten years.

Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica (53, 169, 1) Dyfed Strumble Head, 30th July (R. Dobbins). 1974 Norfolk Blakeney Point, juvenile or first-winter, 25th August (BritishBirds 68: 321), now withdrawn by observer. (Almost cosmopolitan, nearest breeding colony in Denmark) A late 1984 record from Ireland involved one at Bridges of Ross, Co. Clare, on 21st September. A previously accepted record, from Herdman Channel, Belfast, Co. Antrim, on 16th August 1957, has now been rejected by the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee. Since the blank year of 1970, only 1981 has been as poor with just one record.

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia (30, 133, 2) Fife Anstruther, 8th September (C. & Mrs A.-M. Smout). Suffolk Minsmere, 8th June (S. Young). At Sea Sea area Dover, 6th August (J. T. Smith). 1984 Staffordshire Alton, 26th April (N. Ratcliffe). 1984 Suffolk Benacre, 8th July Q. Minihane, C. S. Waller). (Almost cosmopolitan except South America, but everywhere local) A late 1984 record from Ireland involved one at Lough Derravaragh, Co. Westmeath, on 20th July. Some typical records; the average for the past ten years has been five.

Lesser Crested Tern Sterna bengalensis (0,3, 1) Devon Dawlish Warren, 17th to at least 20th July (D.J. Barker, D.J. Hopkins, P. M. Mayer et al.)(Brit. Birds 78: plate 243). Northumberland Fame Islands, 9, 16th May to 18th July (L.Austin, K.J. Rideout«Ja/.). 1982 Gwynedd Cymyran Bay, Anglesey, 13th July (J. Chester, C. Hurford). 1983 Norfolk Blakeney Point, intermittently, 9th August to 17th September (S. J. M. Gantlett, J. Reed et at.); same Scolt Head, 27th August, and Holme, 29th (per S. J. M. Gantlett)(5nV. Birds 76: plate 231). 1984 Cleveland Seaton Snook, 17th to 20thJune (T. Francis, G. Iceton, P.Johnson, R. T. McAndrew«

Forster's Tern Sterna jorsteri (0,8, 3) Lothian Musselburgh and Granton Harbour, Edinburgh, age uncertain, 6th October to 9th November (I.J. Andrews, P. R. Gordon, Dr L. L.J. Vick et al.). (North America) There were five records in Ireland, but the first four listed here refer to the same individual: adult near Termonfeckin, Co. Louth, on 3rd August; same at Dundalk Harbour, Co. Louth, from 7th to 8th September; same Glogher Head, Co. Louth, on 21st September; same Bull Island, Co. Dublin, from 16th November into 1986; and a first-winter at Dungarvan Harbour, Co. Waterford, from 26th January to 2nd February. There are also two late 1984 records (of one bird) from Ireland: at Groomsport, Co. Down, from 19th to 20th March; and at Quoile Pondage, Co. Down, from 1st May to 1st June. Three in one year is a new peak, and Scotland had its first. The first in Britain and Ireland was as recent as 1980. The increase seems likely to be linked with the northward spread on the east coast of America (BWP Vol. 4, page 103) as much as with increased observer-awareness. Forster's Tern over-winters well north in the USA, so the winter records on this side of the Atlantic are not surprising.

Bridled Tern Sterna amethetus (3, 7,0) 1984 Dorset Lodmoor, adult, 11th July (M. Cade). (Oceanic islands from Caribbean east to Philippines and Australia) This record came just a month after the well-watched bird at Rutland Water, Leicestershire, and, interestingly, just two days after the Sooty Tern Sterna Juscata seen in Kent and East Sussex {Brit. Birds 78: 559).

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus (20,61, 2) Sussex, West Worthing, 25th May (DrJ. A. Newnham, D. I. Smith). (South Eurasia, Northwest, East and Southern Africa, and Australia) One in Ireland: an adult at Kilmacsimon, Co. Cork, from 28th July to about 3rd August. Two in a year is about normal; 1970 remains much the best year, with nine.

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus (50,453, 11) Cleveland Long Drag Pools, adult, 29th June (J. R. Duffie et a/.); adult, 31st July to 5th August (M. Davidson, J. B. Dunnett, J. E. Williams et al.). Dorman's Pool, juvenile, 1st September (E. Kwaterrta/.). Gwynedd Llyn Alaw, Anglesey, 23rd May (J. E. Clark, K. G. Croft et al.). Lancashire Near Lea Marsh, adult, 16th August (D. Melbourne, J. Wilson). Norfolk Welney, 6th to 8th June (J. B. Kemp et al.). Orkney Loch of Harray, Mainland, adult, 23rd to 25th June (S. Headley, E. R. Meek etal.). Suffolk Minsmere, first-summer, 31st May and 3rd to 4th June (T. D. Charlton, J. H. Grant, A., F. M. & K. H. Thomas et at.). 1983 Humberside See 1984 Humberside below. 558 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 1984 Cambridgeshire Peterborough, juvenile, 29th to 30th September (R. I. Thorpe et at.). 1984 Humberside Tophill Low Reservoirs, adult, 22nd June (Brit. Birds 78: 560), was in 1983. 1984 Kent Dungeness, adult, 18th to 21st June {Brit. Birds 78: 560), 21st only. (Southeast Europe, West and East Asia) Also, two in Ireland: adult at Oxford Island, Lough Neagh, Co. Armagh, from 2nd to 4th September; and an adult at Strand Lough, Co. Down, from 29th to 30th May. A late 1984 record from Ireland involved an adult at Bridges of Ross, Co. Clare, on 19th September. The average over the past ten years has been 22, and the nine in Britain represent the lowest total since 1965. Interestingly, the spring was about average, but the autumn was well down on normal.

Briinnich's Guillemot Urialomvia (3, 16, 1) Orkney Scapa Bay, dead, 9th January (Dr M. P. Harris, M. Heubeck, I. S. Robertson et at.). (Circumpolar Arctic) There have now been records for ten years running, but 13 out of the 16 in that period have been corpses! Surely it will not be long before one is found over-wintering in a Scottish harbour?

Black-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus erythrophthalmus (4, 7, 1) Scilly St Mary's, first-winter, 12th October (P. A. Fraser, P. Naylor«/a/.)(plate276). (North America) Since 1958, Black-billed Cuckoos have appeared in five years and Yellow-billed Cuckoos C. americanus in 13 years; only in 1965 and 1985, however, have both species occurred.

276. First-winter Black-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus trythrophthalmus, Scilly, October 1985 (David W. Burns) Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus (22, 19, 4) Hampshire YVoolston, Southampton, recently dead, 17th October (C. Lloyd, D. Unsworth), now at Cumberland Museum, Southsea. Scilly Two, probably three: St Mary's, 12th to 13th October (M.J. Crosby, D. M. Harris et Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 559 al.); probably another, 17th to 23rd (D. M, Cottridge, C. D. R. Heard et a/.); Tresco, 13th to 16th (K. D. Durose, L. G. R. Evans, P. Wheeler el at.); probably another, 26th to 27th (T. Baker, J. M. Bayldon, R. C. Broadbent el at) (plate 281); St Martin's, 17th, 20th to 22nd (L. G. R. Evans, P. J. Grant, N. J. Watmough tt al): St Agnes, 19th; differing individual. 23rd (C. Bradshaw, P. A. Dukes, D. Sykes tt at). (North America) Details of two others, in Cornwall and Surrey, were received too late for inclusion in this report. A remarkable influx, following three blank years. No other year since at least 1958 has produced more than two.

Tengmalm's Owl Aegoliusjunereus (49,6,0) 1981 Durham Fishburn, dead, leg only (Bril. Birds 78: 562), found on 10th January. (North Eurasia and North America) Needle-tailed Swift Hirundapus caudacutus (2, 3, 1) Yorkshire, West Fairburn Ings, 27th May (J. Glendinning, G. R. Welch it at). (West Siberia to Japan, south to Northern China; also Himalayas east to Taiwan) With only three records prior to 1983, it is remarkable that this species should subsequently appear in three successive years in late May/ early June. Could the same individual be involved?

Pallid Swift Apus pallidas (0, 6,0) 1984 Dyfed Near Strumble Head, 12th to 13th November (N. A. Lethaby). 1984 Kent Warden Point, Sheppey, 14th to 16th November (W. M.Jones, J. Willis etal). (Mediterranean, North Africa and Middle East) These two, part of a late-autumn influx of southern species, bring the 1984 total to four.

Alpine Swift Apusmelba (150, 196, 14) Cleveland Kirklevington, 6th April (C. Bielby). Boulby Cliffs, 6th to 7th October (I. Boustead, P. Forster, N.Jackson el at), presumed same as North Yorkshire individual. Cornwall Crantock, 29th August (A. W. G.John). Devon Berry Head, 11th August (N. Ward). Dorset Portland, 26th June (D. Beadle); 28th August (D. Beadle, R. A. Ford, P. P.Jennings it al). Dyfed Caldy Island, 6thJuly (S.J. Sutcliffe). Essex Colne Point, 10th April (G. Allport, M. O'Brien). Humberside Spurn, 6th July (R. P. Lambe, B. R. Spence). Lancashire St Helen's, 2nd April (A. Bradshaw, D. Owen). Lincolnshire Gibraltar Point, 31st August (P.J. Clurow, M. Kennewell). Norfolk Holme, 8th April (V. Eve tt al). Cley, 25th May (M. V. Henty, P. Varney, M. D. Wilson et at). Yorkshire, North Robin Hood's Bay, 5th October (Dr R. & Mrs M. Gulliver), presumed same as Cleveland individual of 6th to 7th. Yorkshire, South Near Barnsley, 22nd August (P. Bradley). 1976 Cleveland South Gare, 16th October (I. Boustead et al). (South Eurasia, Northwest and East Africa) In Ireland, a recently accepted record is from Castlerock, Co. Londonderry, on 8th June 1984. This species has been an annual visitor since at least 1958, but 14 is the most in any year since 1970. Further early-April reports from north Norfolk were received too late for inclusion.

Little Swift Apus qffinis (0, 5, 1) Devon Slapton Ley area, 15th to 16th August (P. & Mrs B. Williams et al). 560 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 (Africa, Middle East and South Asia) There have now been six in all since 1967 and four in the last five years. No obvious pattern is yet emerging: two have appeared in May, one in June, one in August, and two in November. A 1981 record remains under consideration.

Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcjon (1,4,0) (North America) None in Britain. A female at Killaloe, Co. Tipperary, from 6th February to 8th March is considered to be the same individual as that at Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare, during October-December 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 564; Irish Birds 3: 116).

Bee-eater Merops apiaster (154, 180, 26) Cornwall Porthgwarra, 15, possibly 27, 26th May (H. P. K. Robinson etai). Devon Lundy, 12th May (B. Tollitt). Countess Wear, four, 1st June (R, Khan). Gwynedd Malltraeth, Anglesey, 22nd to 23rd April {Mrs D. Reekie, C. M. Swaine, J. P. Wilkinson). Lincolnshire Gibraltar Point, 26th to 29th August, two, including a juvenile, 28th (R. de Fraine, E. Wood elal.). Orkney North Walls, 11th July (J. R. L. Hogarth it al.). Sanday, 4th August (A. Olsson). Papa Westray, 9th (D. Boys). Kirkwall, 13th to 15th (E. Bews, V. E. Burgess), probably all same individual. Scilly Bryher, Tresco, St Mary's and occasionally St Agnes, juvenile, 23rd September to at least 1st November (R. C. BinghamJ. Dolan, N. F. Williams etal.)(Brit. Birds 79: plate 27). (South Europe, Southwest Asia and Northwest Africa) Also, one at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 30th September. A minimum of 26 is the highest total since at least 1958, just beating the previous maximum of 25 in 1983. Given that the same individual was involved in the Orkney sightings, however, only eight records and seven counties (treating Scilly separately) are involved in this total; in 1979, 12 records were spread across 11 counties, but involved only 15 individuals. The Scilly bird, no doubt sustained by the late supply of bees available there, remained later than any since 1963, when one which eventually died was in Cornwall from 10th November to 3rd December (Brit. Birds 57: 272).

Roller Coracias garrulus (135, 75, 1) Suffolk Walberswick, 28th May (B. M. Wentworth). (South and East Europe, West Asia and Northwest Africa) Unlike the previous species, the Roller remains an elusive visitor. Between one and eight have appeared in all but three years since 1958, with an annual mean of just under three.

Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra (0,2, 1) Scilly St Mary's, 26th to 29th April (W. H. Wagstaffri al.). (Iberia and Morocco east to Southern Russia) The previous two were also in April: at Portland Bill, Dorset, on 2nd April 1961, and at Fair Isle, Shetland, on 28th April 1978. The St Mary's individual followed hot on the heels of a Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos, making Scilly very much the focus of attention at that time. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 561 White-winged Lark Melanocorypha Imcoptera (4, 1, 0) 1981 Norfolk Near King's Lynn, 22nd to 24th October (DrJ. Lines, j. A. W. Moyes). (Southern Russia and Central Asia) The first since 1955 and only the fifth in all. Easing of travel restrictions in Soviet Central Asia has enabled European observers to gain first-hand experience of this hitherto little- known species. A paper on its identification, by I. S. Robertson, was published earlier this year {Brit. Birds 79: 332-335).

Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla (40, 240, 14) Berkshire/Surrey Wraysbury Reservoir; 29th to 30th April (C. D. R. Heard'et at.). Cornwall Sennen, 24th to 26th September (M. P. Semmens et at.). Portreath, 7th November (D.S.Flumm). Devon Paignton, 23rd December (M. R. A. & R. E. Bailey, M. Langman)(fig. 5). Dorset Portland, 7th to 19th October (D. Beadle et at). Fife Isle of May, 8th May (Dr M. P. Harris, J. H. B, Munro, Miss S. Wanless et at.). Scilly St Mary's, 16th to 23rd September (Dr P. H. Smith et at.); 1st to 4th October (W. Simpson el a/.)(fig. 6); 8th to 1 Ith October (A. A. Butcher et at); 9th October (K. Osborn et al.). Tresco, 9th to 13th October (B.J. Brown et at). Gugh and St Agnes, two, 17th to 19th October (A. R. Dean, P. A. Dukes et at.). Shetland Fair Isle, 28th to 29th May (N.J. Riddiford, J. Torino et at); 13th to 14th June (N.J. Riddiford, K. B. Shepherd et al.). Surrey See Berkshire/Surrey above.

Fig. 5. Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla, Devon, December 1985 (Michael Langman)

1982 Shetland Fair Isle (Brit. Birds 76: 504), 16th to 18th September, last seen 20th; 25th to 28th September, last seen 1st October (per N.J. Riddiford). 1984 Cornwall Porthgwarra, 24th April (H. P. K. Robinson). 1984 Scilly St Martin's, at least 23rd October (N. C. Machin, S. Sully). 1984 Shetland Fair Isle, 23rd September to 8th October {Brit. Birds 78: 565), correct finders were P. V. Harvey, S. M. Henson, S. A. Webb. (South Eurasia, North and East Africa) The 1985 records show a clear 562 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 north-south divide between spring and autumn, perhaps indicative of birds of southern and eastern origin, respectively (see Rare Birds in Britain and Ireland)! The individual at Portland was the first at that much watched locality. There have now been eight November arrivals since 1953, but the Paignton individual was by far the latest ever (though one remained on Fair Isle, Shetland, from 28th November to at least 6th December 1960: Brit. Birds 54: 189).

Fig. 6. Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla, Stilly, October 1985 (W. Simpson)

Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica (7, 84, 3) Clwyd Gronant, 6th September, probably same, 20th (C. Rowley). Scilly St Mary's, 1st May (H. P. K. Robinson). Sussex, West Church Norton, 29th May (J. D. Weston). 1984 Scilly Tresco, 15th to 16th October (Brit. Birds 78: 565), initial finders were T. A. Gudgeon, N. C. Machin. (South and East Eurasia, and Africa) Records of this species began to increase significantly in the mid 1960s, associated with a northward expansion of the breeding range. The last five years, however, suggest a reversal of this trend: the quinquennial totals since 1961 are four, 12, 16, 38 and 15 respectively.

Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae (135,-,-) 1977 Orkney Grice Ness, Stronsay, 26th to 29th September (J. F. Holloway). 1981 Scilly St Mary's, 18th to at least 26th October (Brit. Birds 75: 514), first seen 15th (B. C. & R. W. Forrester etat.). (West Siberia east to Mongolia and southeast to New Zealand) The 1977 total advances to 99. Post-1982 records of this species are no longer con­ sidered by the Committee. 277. First-summer male Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus, Somerset, August 1985 (Barry Wright)

278. Sora Porzana Carolina. West Sussex, October 1985 (Andrew Moon) 279 & 280. Male Northern Parula Parula americana, Scilly, October 1985 (D. M. Cottridge) 281. Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus, Scilly, October 1985 (David W. Burns) 282. Below left, male Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala, Scilly, October 1985 (D. M. Cottridge) 283. Below right, male Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos, Scilly, April 1985 {John Hewitt) 284. Above left, first-summer male Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata coronata, Isle of Man. April 1985 (David Walker) 285. Above right, Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata, Scilly, October 1985 (D. M. Cottridge) 286. Female or immature Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus, Scilly, October 1985 (Barry Wright) Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 567 Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris (120, -, -) 1980 Lothian Aberlady Bay, 19th to 21st July {Brit. Birds 74:482), also 22nd (per A. Brown). 1981 Kent Dungeness, 30th August (Brit. Birds 78: 566), was on 31st (per D. W. Taylor). (Europe, South Asia and Northwest Africa) Post-1982 records of this species are no longer considered by the Committee.

Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni (1, 33, 2) Fife Isle of May, 22nd to 23rd May, trapped 22nd (J. H. B. Munro, MissS. Wanlessrfa/.). Scilly Tresco, 14th October (G. Etherington, K.. Osborn ttai). (Northeast Russia to Central and East Asia) Only one other has appeared in May: at Portland, Dorset, in 1970. Of the grand total of 36, ten have been in Scilly and 13 on Fair Isle (though, after four in 1984, the latter took a rest in 1985).

Pechora Pipit Anthus gustavi (13, 12, 3) Shetland Fair Isle, three: trapped. 22nd September (D. Beveridge. N. J. Riddiford, P. Smith el at.); 24th to 27th (S. M. Henson, Dr D. T. Parkin. N.J. Riddiford etal.); 24th to 29th (P. V. Harvey, N.J. Riddiford, D. Suddaby rt a/.) (plate 287).

287. Pechora Pipit Anthus gustavi, Shetland, September 1985 (Dennis Coutts) (Northeast Russia, across Siberia to Bering Strait) The score moves on to: Fair Isle 24, the rest 4. This is the first time since at least 1958 (and possibly ever) that three have been found in one year.

Red-throated Pipit Anthus cenmus{30, 142, 11) Cornwall Porthgwarra, 27th to 31st October (D. S. Flumm, P. Harrison, VV. R. Hirst). Derbyshire/Yorkshire, South Rother Valley Country Park, 20th to 23rd May (R. Greasley, D. Hursthouse). Kent Dungeness, 15th October (N. R. Davies). Norfolk Salthouse, 14th May (S. Harris). Scilly Brvher, 18th to 19th April (VV. E. Oddie, VV. H. VVagstaff it at.). St Agnes, 19th May (G. M. & Mrs S. Haig)(fig. 7). St Mary's, 29th September to 2nd October (G. R. Avery, B. Bland, I. Lewington etal.); another, 31st (L. R. Cross, C. D. R. Heard etat.). Shetland Fair Isle, 24th May (C. D. R. Heard, N.J. Riddiford et at.); first-summer, 7th to 8th June, trapped 7th (P. V. Harvey, N.J. Riddiford et «/.); 16th June (P. V. Harvey, N.J. Riddiford etal.). 568 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985

Fig. 7. Red-throated Pipit Anthuscervinus, Scilly, May 1985 (GavinHaig) Tyne & Wear Barmston Pond, I9th to 22nd May (G. K. Gordon etal.). Yorkshire, South See Derbyshire above. 1984 Scilly Tresco, 13th to 23rd October (P.J. Grant, M.J. Palmer etal.). (Arctic Eurasia) The total of 11 is a return to the form of the mid 1970s.

Yellow Wagtail Motacillafiava (3, 11,0) 1984 Lothian Skateraw, 6, showing characters of the black-headed subspecies M.j.Jeldegg, 28th April {I.J.Andrews). (Balkans, South Russia and Asia Minor to Afghanistan) Following the paper by van den Berg & Oreel(J3nX Birds 78: 176-183), which described a black-headed variant of the grey-headed Yellow Wagtail M. j. thunbergi, much stricter criteria have become necessary in evaluating records of black-headed Yellow Wagtails M.j.Jeldegg. The Lothian individual is the only recent observation so far judged acceptable. A number of other records are under consideration, while all previously accepted records are being reviewed. Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola (2,34, 2) Lothian Musselburgh, first-winter, 10th to 12th October (T. Byars,J. Camduff, P. R. Gordon etal.). Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, 31st August to 2nd September (C. McKay, N.J. Riddiford, K. B. Shepherd et al.). (Northeast and East Russia, West Siberia, and West and Central Asia) Seven or eight have been recorded in each of the five-yearly periods since 1966. There are a number of records still under review, which makes statistical comment difficult; of the grand total of 36, however, 26 have been in Scotland, 19 of them on Fair Isle. The two in 1985 include the first accepted on Fair Isle since 1979, but the third in Lothian since 1981. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 569 Thrush Nightingale Luscinia luscinia (2,58, 5) Cleveland Hartlepool, 13th to 15th May (T. Francis, C. Sharpe et al.). FifeCrail, 15th May (J. G. Steele). Northumberland Low Hauxley, first-winter, trapped, 15th May (A. M. Bankier, I. Kerton, B. Little et id.). Shetland Fair Isle, two: first-summer, 10th to 30th May, trapped 11th (P. V. Harvey, N, J. Riddiford et al); 21st to 23rd (Mr & Mrs McLullen, N.J. Riddiford, K. B. Shepherd et at.). Whalsay, first-summer, 15th to 19th May, trapped 15th (DrC. F. Mackenzie, DrB. Marshall et al.). 1983 Fife Isle of May, trapped, 16th May (M. Muddiman, Miss S. Wanless). 1984 Fife Isle of May, 22nd to 24th May, trapped 23rd (Dr M. P. Harris, J. Torino, Miss S. Wanless et al.). 1984 Humberside Spurn, in song, 25th to 26th May (J. Cudworth, S. M. Lister et al.), additional to two already published (Brit. Birds 78: 571). (Scandinavia, East Europe and West Asia) Classic spring records in northern Britain. Of the 50 spring occurrences, 47 have been north of a line from the Humber to the Mersey; of 15 autumn records, however, eight have been south of this line.

Stonechat Saxicola torquata (1, 77,8) With the exception of that in Cornwall, individuals showing characters of one or other of the eastern races S. t. maura or stejnegeri, colloquially known as 'Siberian Stonechats', were recorded as follows:

Cleveland Hartlepool,

Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica (15, 21, 1) Dorset Portland, 6*, 27th to at least 28th May (R. Lambert, C. Robertson et al.)(Brit. Birds 78: plate 192). (Southern Europe, Northwest Africa and Southwest Asia, also Iran) This wheatear has appeared in only 15 of the years since 1958; thus, it is distinctly less than annual, though there were ten between 1971 and 1975.

Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti (11, 12,0) Highland Freswick, Caithness, 6", first seen 26th December 1984 (Brit. Birds 78: 572), to at least 12th January (perG. P. Catley). 1984 Cornwall (Brit. Birds 78: 572), fig. 3 relates to Highland individual. (North Africa, Northwest Arabia and east to Mongolia) White-crowned Black Wheatear Oenanthe leucopyga (0, 1, 0) 1982 Suffolk Kessingland, 6", 1st or 2nd to 5th June (Brit. Birds 78: 572), principal identifiers were B.J. Brown, R. Conner, A. C. Easton. (North Africa and Middle East) Full details of this occurrence have been published recently {Brit. Birds 79: 221-227).'

Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis (6, 13, 1) Devon Ernesettle, Plymouth, o\ 3rd May (E. Griffiths). (Central and Southern Eurasia) Only two have arrived earlier than this. Of the 14 since 1958, five have been in southwest England. White's Thrush Zoothera dauma (29, 10, 1) Shetland Catfirth, 10th October (C. W. Byers, M. S. Chapman, J. Eames et al). (Northern and Central Siberia) The first since 1979. Sweden recorded its sixth (and the first since 1966) on 23rd October (Brit. Birds 79: 290). Siberian Thrush Zoothera sibirica (1,3, 1) (Central Siberia east to Japan and south to Tasmania) None in Britain, but Ireland received its first: an immature male on Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 18th October.

Gray-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus (1, 17,2) Cornwall Copperhouse Creek, Hayle, 26th to 28th October (S. C. Hutchings, E. & P. Speak, L. P. Williams et al.) (Brit. Birds 79: plates 12-13). Devon Lundy, first-winter, 11th to 12th October, trapped 11th (B. H. Bailey, R. K. Bircher, M. E. Durham et al.). (North America and Northern Siberia) The Hayle individual was only the fourth on the mainland. Ten of the 12 since 1976 have been in southwest England, whereas the eight earlier records were all between Gwynedd and Shetland. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 571 Fan-tailed Warbler Cisticolajuncidis (0, 3, 1) (Mediterranean, West and North France, also Africa and South Asia to Australia) The second for Ireland (and fourth for Britain and Ireland combined) occurred at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 18th April, neatly matching the first in both season and place: Cape Clear Island on 23rd April 1962 (Brit. Birds 65:501-510).

Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler Locustella certhiola (3,4, 1) Northumberland Fame Islands, 26th October (N. Gartshore, G. W.J. Hay, K.J. Rideout et at.). (Western Siberia and Central Asia to Japan) All previous records have been between 13th September and 8th October, so this was the latest ever, by a large margin.

Lanceolated Warbler Locustella lanceolata (9, 26,1) Shetland Fair Isle, first-winter, trapped, 25th September (P. M. Ellis, N.J. Riddiford etal.). (East Eurasia from Central Russia to North Japan) The classic site (ten of the last 14 years) and a typical date.

Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola (47, -, -) 1981 Dorset Lodmoor, first-winter, trapped, 24th August (P. V. Harvey, T. Squire). (East Europe and Urals) This late acceptance, of a species removed from the list of those considered by the Committee in 1982, brings the 1981 total to 19.

Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephalus agricola (2,9,0) 1984 Cleveland Hartlepool, first-winter, trapped, 27th October (Brit. Birds 78: 574), again 28th (S. M. Henson, P. Naylorrfa/.). (South Russia and Asia)

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus (23, 111,4) Grampian Girdle Ness, 19th May (D. C. Butcher, C. D. R. Heard, R. A. Schofield). Norfolk Holkham Meals, 15th to 21st June (P. M. Cocker, D. A. Henshilwood et at.). Scilly St Agnes, in song, 16th May, found dead 4th June (D.J. Barker, F. H. D. Hicks et al.}. Shetland Out Skerries, 28th May (W. E. Oddie, E. Tait). 1984 Essex Pitsea Marsh, trapped, 28thJuly (B.J. Manton, P. Osbom, P.J. Shaw). 1984 Humberside Saltmarshe Delph, Howden, in song, 19th May to at least 1st June (A. Butler, V. A. Lister, D. Page etal.). (Europe, Southwest and East Asia and North Africa) Four typical (though geographically well-spread) spring records. In the period 1958-72, 14 of 63 individuals (22%) arrived from July onwards, with ten in August (Rare Birds in Britain and Ireland). From 1973 to 1985, eight of 52 records (15%) were in autumn; only two were during August, however, and there has been no record in that month since 1977.

Olivaceous Warbler Hippolaispallida (2, 11, 1) Scilly St Mary's, 17th to 27th October (J. T. Belsey, C. D. R. Heard, R. L. Twiggrfa/.)(plate 288). (Iberia and Northwest Africa, discontinuously east to Kazakhstan) Two years in succession in Scilly (and, in each case, initial confusion over the 572 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985

288. Olivaceous Warbler Hippo/aispallida, Scilly, October 1985 (D. M. Cottridge) identification was dispelled by the second-named observer above). A review of all previous records is now underway.

Booted Warbler Hippolais caligata (1, 20, 1) Scilly St Mare's, 15th to 19th October (R. Gossage elal.){Brit. Birds 79: plates 25-26). 1982 Yorkshire, North See 1983 below. 1983 Yorkshire, North Scarborough, 11 th to 16th October (Brit. Birds 78:576), was in 1982. 1984 Dorset St Alban's Head, trapped 23rd October, released 24th (M.J. Cook, M.J. Netherwood, T. Squire et at.). (Northwest Russia, east to Mongolia and south to Iran) The above date correction modifies the opening comment in last year's report. A 1984 claim remains under consideration. There have now been five in Scilly (four since 1980) and six on Fair Isle (but none there since 1977).

Marmora's Warbler Sylvia sarda (0, 1, 0) 1982 Yorkshire, South Midhope Moor, 6", 15th May to 11th July (Brit. Birds 78: 575), still present 24th July (D. Hursthouse,J. Mitchell, S. Stirrup el at.). (Western Mediterranean islands and, locally, coasts)

Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans (12, 126, 15) Cornwall Porthgwarra, 20th April (S.J. Broyd, R. Filby et al). Devon Lundy, cT, 3rd June (E. F. Davis). Dyfed Skomer, 6*, 20th April to 8th May (G.Jones, P. Slater et al.). Fife Isle of May, ?, 23rd June to 4th October, trapped 23rd June and in August when in full moult (P. J. Alker, D. A. Bell, P. A. Kingetal.). Gwynedd Bardsey, first-year 9 showing characters of S. c. albistriata, trapped, 17th May (S. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 573 Anderson, T. Collins). Port Meudwy, Aberdaron,

Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala (1, 11,1) Scilly St Mary's, 3, 23rd to 24th October (J. M. Clark et al.) (plate 282). (South Europe, Middle East and North Africa) The third in Scilly, and the sixth in autumn. Of the 13 records, 11 have involved identifiable males.

Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides (13, 115,4) Dorset Hengistbury Head, first-winter, 1st to 3rd October, trapped 2nd (E. C. Brett, P.J. Holmes, D. N. Smith etat.)(Brit. Birds 79: plate 24). Fife Lochore, 10th to 12th June (M.J. Feltham, D. Irving). Isle of May, first-winter, 8th to 10th September, trapped 8th (I. M. Darling, D. Stevenson). 1984 Cornwall Nanquidno, first-winter, 29th September to 1st October (T. R. Cleeves, A. F. A. Hawkins, C. J. & J. A. Hazell etal.). 1984 Yorkshire, North Scarborough, 27th August (A. S. Butler, V. A. lister). (Eurasia, east from northern Germany) Also, one in Ireland: at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, from 29th September to 1st October. The 1984 individual at Nanquidno had indications of a second (median-covert) wing-bar, though this was more apparent to some observers than to others. This raised tentative thoughts of Two-barred Greenish Warbler P. plumbeitarsus , but other features (including colour of upperparts, colour of underparts, and brief snatches of song) pointed strongly to P. t. viridanus.

Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis (19, 121,4) Cornwall Cot Valley, St Just, 30th September to 2nd October (K. Alexander, M. C. Carr, S. Rogers etal.). Devon Lundy, first-winter, 19th to 23rd September, trapped 19th (J. M. B. King, P. R. Todd etal.). Lincolnshire Theddlethorpe Dunes, first-winter, trapped, 10th September (M. Boddy). 1983 Highland Wick River, Caithness, 17th September (K. W. Banks et al.). 574 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 1984 Cornwall Nanquidno, 2nd October (T. R. Cleeves, N. & C. Moores, N. G. Morris etal). 1984 Dorset Portland, first-winter, trapped, 6th October (Brit. Birds 78: 577), was on 6th September. 1984 Kent Sandwich Bav, 27th September (D. M. Batchelor). 1984 Norfolk Holme, 10th September (P. R. Clarke, C. F. Hibberd). (Northern Fenno-Scandia east to Alaska) Also, one at Toe Head, Co. Cork, from 20th to 25th October. Other records, from Dorset, Orkney and Shetland, remain under consideration. Prior to 1975, over two-thirds of records came from Scotland. Since then, the proportion has dropped to a little over half, with the remainder on the east coast of England between Norfolk and Northumberland (14), in southwest England (12) and in southwest Ireland (4); the 1984 individual in Kent is the first in southeast England.

Pallas's Warbler Phylloscopusproregulus (3, 220, 18) Devon Prawle Point, 21st to 22nd October (B. D. Gibbs, P. M. Mayer). Dorset Portland, 24th October (G. Walbridge). Hengistbury Head, 30th October (B. Small). Essex Mile End, Colchester, 14th November (the late M.J. Bell). Greater London Wandsworth Common, 29th October (A. Greensmith el at.). Kent Margate, 13th October (M. J., Mrs P. A. & V. A. R. Lawson, P. Simpson). St Margaret's Bay, trapped, 19th October (J. R. H. Clements); another, 22nd (I. P. Hodgson). Sandwich Bay, 20th to 21st October, two trapped 20th (DM. Batchelor, K. B. Ellis, R. Smith el at.). Dungeness, trapped, 25th October (S. McMinn). Norfolk Blakeney Point, 21st October (E. T. Myers). Holkham Meals, 21st October (S. Abbott, J. B. Kemp); another, 23rd (J. B. Kemp). Scilly St Mary's, 20th October (C. D. R. Heard); two, 20th to 22nd (Dr R. C. Brace el at.; B. Bland, R.J.Johns el at.); 24th (N. Borrow, P. Vines el at.) (fig. 9). Tresco, 22nd to 24th October (Dr R. C. Brace el at.); another, 23rd and 25th (A. G. Clarke, S. Rooke). Tyne & Wear Prior's Park, trapped, 25th October (A. Hutt, M. P. Carruthers el at.). At Sea Sea area Humber, Inner Dowsing Tower, 53° 20'N 0° 34'E, about 15 km from Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire, 24th October (M. P. Lee). (Central, East and Southeast Asia) Ireland received its second, third and fourth: at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, trapped, on 21st October; at Sherkin Island, Co. Cork, during 23rd-27th October; and at Hook Head, Co. Wexford, during 24th-25th October. After two relatively poor years, a resurgence for Britain, and an exceptional year for Ireland.

Fig. 9. Pallas's Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus, Scilly, October 1985 (from colour illustration by Nik Borrow) Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 575 Radde's Warbler Phylloscopus schwarzi (1,45,4) Norfolk Wells, 22nd to 24th October (P. Burnham, R. Cobbold, J. R. Williamson et al.). Scilly Tresco, 19th to 20th October (J. B. Good, C. E. Richards et al.). Gugh, 24th to 25th October (T. P. Andrews, L. R. Cross, N. C. Machin etal.). (Central and East Asia) The second for Ireland occurred at Helvick Head, Co. Waterford, on 15th October.

Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus Juscatus (1,43, 3) Cleveland South Gare, 26th October (N. A. Preston etal.). Fife Isle of May, first-winter, 20th to 23rd October, trapped 22nd (S. R. D. da Prato et at.). Scilly St Mary's, 19th to 20th October (T. A. GuyattJ. A. Hazell, P. Naylortfa/.). (Central and Northeast to Southeast Asia) Between them, Norfolk (10), Scilly (9) and Kent (6) account for over half the grand total.

Bonelli's Warbler Phylloscopus bonelli (3,85, 1) Cornwall Sennen, 8th to 22nd September, thought to be nominate race on call (R. Andrew, P. Harrison, V. R. Tucker et at.). 1983 Shetland Lerwick, 27th September to 3rd October (M. S. Chapman et al.). 1984 Shetland Fetlar, 19th to 29th September (M. A. Peacock, M. Walker). (Central, West and South Europe, Levant, and Northwest Africa) Since 1958, there have been 40 in the South Coast counties between Scilly (with 17) and Kent, but the Sennen individual is only the third on the Cornish mainland.

Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis (2, 11,2) Suffolk Lowestoft, first-summer 6", 13th to 14th May (B.J. Brown, A. &J. C. Eaton et al.). Yorkshire, North Filey, 8, 21st to 22nd May, trapped 21st (P.J. Dunn, A. Lewis rf a/. )(i?n'/. Birds 78: plate 191). (Central and Southeast Europe, West Russia and east to Japan) There have now been seven in the last eight years, and another May record, from Norfolk, remains under consideration.

Wallcreeper TtVAorfroma muraria (6, 3, 1) Wight, Isle of St Catherine's Point, S, !6th May (D.J. Hunnybun, D. B. Wooldridgeefa/.). (Central-southern Eurasia, discontinuously from the Pyrenees to China) The first since the remarkable Somerset individual which wintered in 1976/77 and 1977/78 (Brit. Birds 71: 522). Four others have appeared in spring, one as late as June (in 1938).

Penduline Tit Remiz pendulinus (0, 11,0) 1982 Essex Ockendon, in June (R.J. Mellis). 1983 Kent St Margaret's Bay, 27th October (I. P. Hodgson). Stodmarsh, 6, at least 22nd November (Brit. Birds 78: 579), was on 21st and observer was C. E. V. Saxton. (Scattered from Western Europe east to Manchuria) Confirmation of the Essex individual came from a photograph. Ten appeared in Britain between 1980 and 1983, yet none has arrived in the two subsequent years.

Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus (1,17,2) Dorset Portland, first-winter, probably

Fig. 10. First-winter Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus, Dorset, September 1985 (Dave Beadle)

Gwynedd Holyhead, Anglesey, first-winter, 25th October (K. G. Croft). (South Asia to China) The Holyhead individual is the first for Wales.

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator (101, 366, 7) Cornwall Trevose Head, ? or immature, 9th April (S. M. Christophers). Scilly St Agnes, 6, 7th to 9th April (E.J. Abraham, F. H. D. Hicks elal); 6,25th to 26th (E. & G. Gynn et at.). St Mary's, tj, 18th April to at least 14th May (M. Coath elal). Strathclyde Gartocharn, Dumbartonshire, 7th June (C. N. A. Ellen). Wight, Isle of St Catherine's Point, juvenile, 22nd August (J. C. Gloyn el at.). 1984 Dorset Portland, first-summer 6, trapped, 6th June (M. R. Lawn, M. Rogers/"/al.). 1984 Kent Kingsgate, juvenile, 6th to 10th October '(Brit. Birds 78: 580), to 16th (per D. W. Taylor). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 577 (West, Central and South Europe, Southwest Asia and North Africa) In Ireland, one was trapped on Great Saltee, Co. Wexford, during 20th-24th April. The St Agnes individual was the earliest since at least 1956. The stay of 27 days by the St Mary's individual was long for spring, but was equalled by one on the same island in 1979 (Brit. Birds 73: 525).

Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes (45, 354, 2) Cambridgeshire Wandleburv'Park, 24th to 26th October (R. G. H. Cant, Dr D. R. C. & Mrs B. Willcox). Kent Northward Hill, 23rd October (A. Parker). Suffolk Westleton, 2nd November to 7th December when found dead (T. D. & Mrs L. H. Charlton, K. Mares, D. Morrell et al.)(Brit. Birds 79: plates 54-59). (Eurasia from Scandinavia and the Alps to Kamchatka and China) The first acceptable records since 1979. Details of another, in Kent, were received too late for inclusion. The Westleton individual became one of the year's big attractions (observers in early December being able to combine it with a visit to the Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia in Norfolk). As it had been feeding avidly on apples, there was great disappointment—and some surprise—when it was eventually found dead in a very emaciated condition (Brit. Birds 79: 153). In autumn 1985, thousands were recorded in Fenno-Scandia and 1,500 in Denmark (Brit. Birds 79: 291).

Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus (160, 148, 8) Bedfordshire Henlow, adult, 22nd to at least 24th May (L. G. R. Evans, R. D. Spicer). Cornwall The Lizard, juvenile, 28th to 30th October (B. Cave). Hampshire Southsea, first-summer, 26th March to 24th April (D. T. Paradise, P. M. Potts, Mrs R. Raerta/.)(plate289). Scilly Bryher, juvenile, 6th to 7th and 17th to 31st October (M. S. Garner,J. A. Hazell etal.); probablv same, St Mary's, 13th and 16th (T. Mcjannetrt a/.), and St Martin's, 14th (P. Fuller, R. E. Harbird, T. Woodcraft). Shetland Fair Isle, /.); adult, 21stJune to 17thJuly (T.J. StoweWn/.). Balivanich, Benbecula,juvenile, 18th to20th October (P. R. & Mrs. J. Boyer)'. 1983 Devon Wembury, juvenile, 18th November (D. R. Courtnell). 1983 Gwynedd Criccieth, adult, 4th June (D. G. Thomas, H. M. Williams). 1984 Humberside Spurn, juvenile, 26th August (J. Cudworth, Mrs. J. Massingham, R. Swales et at.). (Southeast Europe and South­ west Asia) During 1958-70, this species averaged between three and four per year, and one in seven was a juvenile; since 1971, it has averaged between seven .and eight per year, and nearly a quarter have been juveniles.

289. First summer Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus. Hampshire, April 1985 (Gavin Maclean) 578 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus (1,21, 12) All records relate to first-winter individuals: Cornwall Porthgwarra, 5th to 9th October (P. Aley, S.J. Cox, B. R. Field et a/.); another, 5th (P. J. Barden, H. Talis). Cot Valley, St Just, 11th to 12th October (J. G. & S.J.Jones etai). Devon Lundy, trapped, 5th October (R. K. Bircher, N. Odin, I. D. Smith et a/.)(plates 290-292).

290-292. Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus, Devon. October 1985 {N. Odin)

Gwynedd Bardsey, trapped, 15th October (S. Anderson, T. Collins, P.J. Donnelly). Scilly St Agnes, 3rd to 11th October (P. A. Dukes et at.). St Mary's, 4th to 17th October (B. Bland el al.)(Brit. Birds 79: plate 14); another, 7th to 20th (R. H. Chittenden, P. R. Davis, P. Samson et at.). Bryher, 18th October (E. D. Lloyd).

(North America) Also, three in Ireland: at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, during 2nd-7th October (trapped), and 19th-23rd October; and at Brownstown Head, Co. Waterford, on 17th October. The total of 12 in one year eclipses the previous maximum of five in 1981, and is more than half the previous grand total. The maximum influx of an American landbird hitherto was ten Blackpoll Warblers Dendroica striata in 1976 {Brit. Birds 70: 440). (The Netherlands received their first and second Red-eyed Vireos, and France its second (awaiting ratification), all between 13th and 19th October: Brit. Birds 79: 291.) Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 579 Philadelphia Vireo Vireo philadelphicus (0,0, 1) (North America) The first for Ireland and the Western Palearctic reached Galley Head, Co. Cork, during 12th-17th October (Brit. Birds 79: plates 10 & 11). Chandler S. Robbins included this species in his table of predicted future Nearctic passerine vagrants to Britain or Ireland, but, of 38 species listed, Philadelphia Vireo occupied position 32 (Brit. Birds 73: 453).

Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni (30,66, 2) Grampian Rattray Head, 20th January (G. Cresswell, D. Dickson et al). Shetland Laxfirth, 9, 17th November (P. M. Ellis). 1984 Northumberland Low Hauxley, first-year

Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera (40,24, 1) Central Region Carron Valley Forest, juvenile to first-winter 9, 14th October to at least 30th March 1986 (A. P. Barr, P. R. Gordons/al.). (Northwest Europe, North-central Asia, northern North America and West Indies) Hundreds reached Scandinavia in autumn 1985 (Brit. Birds 79: 291). A number of past records dating back to 1979 are still under investigation, amongst them the 1984 New Forest individual (further detailed reports of which would be welcomed, whether or not in favour of identification as leucoptera).

Parrot Crossbill Loxia pytyopsittacus (10, 231,9) Norfolk Wells, pair, presumably same as or related to 1983-84 individuals (Brit. Birds 78: 581), returned 19th February; reared broods of four and two respectively, but seen Holkham in June with only five juveniles (J. B. Kemprftf/. per G. E. Dunmore). Cley, 6 and four juveniles, 17th to 18th July (R. Aberdein, S.J. M. Gantlett etal.), presumed same as Wells/Holkham family. Orkney Holm, Mainland, 6\ dead, 27th October (R. G. & S. R. Adam, C.J. Booth), skull retained by C.J. Booth. Suffolk Locality withheld, pair and two juveniles, at least 4th to 21st April; 6* to at least 12th May; probably bred; presumably same as or related to 1984 individuals (Brit. Birds 78: 581) (T. D. Charlton, F. K. Cobb, G.J.Jobsonrts/.). 1975 Lothian Gladhouse, at least seven, 26th October to 3rd January 1976, some to 27th (A. Brown, R. Smith, Dr L. L.J. Vick). 1976 Lothian See 1975 Lothian above. 1982 Durham See 1983 Durham below. 1983 Durham Hamsteriey Forest, 6\ 2nd January (Brit. Birds 77: 557), first seen 23rd December 1982 (DrJ. D. & R. D. Thomas etal.). 1983 Tyne & Wear Barmston, 9, 24th March, previously rejected (Brit. Birds 77: 561), now accepted on photographic evidence (B. Moore). 1984 Suffolk Locality withheld, up to seven, 29th April to late summer (Brit. Birds 78: 581), two 6* 8 first seen 20th February (J. M. Cawston). (Northern Europe, fr6m Norway east to Russia and south to Estonia) For 1985, only the Orkney individual and the eight East Anglian juveniles have 580 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 been counted as new in the statistics. A record of about 20 at Cushendali, Co. Antrim, on 11th April 1963, which was previously accepted in Ireland (though apparently not included in our statistics), has now been rejected by the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee.

Trumpeter Finch Bucanetes githagineus (0, 4, 1) Essex Foulness, 21st September (G. Wright). 1984 Sussex, West Church Norton, 18th to 23rd May {Brit. Birds 78: 581; 79: 299-300), first date was 19th and third named observer was P.James. (Southeast Spain, Canary Islands, Northern Africa, and Southwest Asia) The previous four (between 1971 and 1984) were all in spring.

Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia (1,8, 1) Norfolk How Hill, Ludham, 3rd to 15A December (M. I. Eldridge, M. McDonnell etal.). (North America) Geographically and seasonally a remarkable record, though the species has now occurred four years in succession. How Hill is a relatively small nature reserve and the locals coped admirably with the unaccustomed influx of observers {Brit. Birds 79: 153).

Northern Parula Parula americana (0,6, 3) Cornwall Penlee Point, Cawsand, first-winter 9, 17th to 19th October (R. W. Gould, S. C. Madge, R. Smaldonrfal). Dorset Hengistbury Head, first-winter 9, 30th September to 12th October, trapped 9th (D.N. Smith etal.).' Scilly St Mary's, 3, 3rd to 17th October (E. C. Basterfield etal.); presumed same, St Agnes, 18th to 21st (R. Andrew et al.){Brit. Birds 79: plates 15-18, 279 & 280). (North America) Cornwall, Dorset and Scilly have all enjoyed this species previously (with Co. Cork the only other county so privileged). The Hengistbury Head individual is the first to arrive in September.

Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata (1, 10,4) Individuals showing the characters of the northern and eastern race D. c. coronata, formerly known as Myrtle Warbler, were identified as follows: Man, Isle of Calf of Man, first-summer 6, trapped, 30th May (P. Howlett, D. Walker)(plate 284). Scilly St Mary's, 7th to 22nd October (N. W. Addey, P. A. Jeflery, G. H.Johnson etal.)(Brit. Birds 79: plates 21-22, 285); another, 10th October (A. P. Benson, C. Todd). (North America) One was trapped on Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, during 5th-7th October. There is one previous record for May: on Fair Isle, Shetland, in 1977 (Brit. Birds 71: 526).

Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica striata (0, 22, 2) Shetland Whalsay, first-winter, 30th September to 3rd October, trapped 30th (J. L. Irvine, DrB. Marshall et at.). 1984 Scilly St Mary's, first-winter, 25th October to4th November (H. P. K. Robinson el al.). (North America) Also, one trapped in Ireland, at Hook Head, Co. Wexford, during 5th-15th October. The Whalsay individual was the first in Scotland and only the third away from southwest Britain and Ireland (there have been two on Bardsey Island, Gwynedd; and one also reached the Channel Islands in 1980). Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 581 American Redstart Setophaga mticilla (0, 5, 1) 1983 Cornwall St Just, first-winter

293. Female Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica, Humberside, May 1985 (B. R. Spence)

Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla (94, 252, 20) Devon Lundy, 2nd November (C. Cope, D. Hobson, A. M. Taylor). Hertfordshire Rye Meads, trapped, 3rd May (A. Harris, T. Spall el a/.)(plates 294 & 295). Northumberland Inner Fame, 26th Oetober (G. Hay, M. Tyers el al.). Orkney Torness, South Ronaldsay, 24th September (M. Gray). Holm, Mainland, 29th to 30th September (M. Gray, E. R. Meek). Scilly Tresco, 17th October (A. D. J.Cook.P. I. Holt, C. A. Moores). St Mary's, 19th to 30th October (C. D. R. Heard, J. Miller A. Noeske elal.). Shetland Fair Isle, at least ten: 15th to 16th May (T. Lumsden, N.J. Riddif'ord, K. B. Shepherd el at.); 20th to 22nd (D. R. Bird, N. J. Riddiford el al.); 9th September (R.J. Frith. S.J. Hayhow, S. H. Hollidayrt al.); 12th (P. V. Harvey etal.); 28th to 29th (P. V. Harvey elal.); 7th to 10th October (D.J. Weaver rt al.); another, 7th to 10th (K. B. Shepherd etal.); 13th to 15th; another, 17th to 18th; another, 26th (P. V. Harvey, N.J. Riddilbrd elal.). Out Skerries, 23rd to 26th September (D. M. Pullan). Strathclyde Skerryvore Lighthouse, South Minch, first-winter, dead, about 27th September (A. McConnell per B. Zonfrillo). Yorkshire, North Knaresborough, 6*, trapped, 22nd April (J. R. Mather, P. T. Treloar, Dr J. Watkins). 1983 Merseyside Heswall, 23rd January to 2nd April, trapped 23rd January (Brit. Birds 11: 559), was <3; still present 4th, when in song (G. P. Catley, M. Mellor). 1983 Scilly St Agnes, 5th May (B. Reed, S. M. Whitehouse). 1984 Cornwall Sennen, 14th to 19th April (H. P. K. Robinson el al). 1984 Humberside Spurn, 17th to 18th November (N. A. Bell el al.). 1984 Scilly St Mary's, 14th to 18th October (Brit. Birds 78: 584), finders/identifiers should have included A. V. Moon. 1984 Shetland Scatness, 20th October (Dr B. Marshall). Fair Isle (Bnt. Birds 78: 584): two, 22nd September, finders were S. M. Henson, J. A. Hopper; 22nd September to 1st October, finders included S. M. Henson, J. A. Hopper; 23rd to 24th September, finders were S. M. Henson, J. A. Hopper, W. Simpson. (Northeast Europe and North Asia) Another good showing in 1985, and the 1984 total advances to a staggering 41. With 13 records already accepted (and two others from Fair Isle among several still under Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 583 consideration), the Northern Isles were again well represented, but southwest England produced only three (cf. Brit. Birds 78: 584-585). One previously accepted in Ireland has now been rejected by the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee: at Belfast Lough, Co. Antrim, on 25th September 1955.

294 & 295. Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla, Hertfordshire, May 198") (Alan Harris)

Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola (10, 110, 3) Shetland Fair Isle, 9 orimmature, 13th to 17thSeptember (S.J. Aspinall, P. V.Harveyetal.)\ another, 13th to 17th (S..J. Aspinall, K. B. Shepherd et at.). (Northeast Europe across North Asia) The poorest showing since 1975. Not since 1971 have British records been confined to Fair Isle; Ireland, however, recorded its fourth in 1985: a female or immature at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, on 18th September.

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza metanocephala (9, 52, 2) Cornwall Portcothan, 6*, 7th to 11 th October (S. M. Christophers. A. Hathwav, B. Wotton). Shetland Fair Isle, 6", 4th to 14th August (D. R. Bird, N.J. Riddiford el al). ' (Southeast Europe and Southwest Asia) Debate about the provenance of Black-headed Buntings continues unabated. Full supporting descriptions are still required for the Cley, Norfolk, individual of October 1984.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus hidovicianus (0, 14, 3) Devon Lundy, first-winter 6", trapped, 27th October (A. M. Taylor**a/.). Scilly St Mary's, first-winter 6", 9th to 28th October (J. H. Marchant, A.J. Prater^a/.)(Brit. Birds 79: plates 19 & 296). (North America) In Ireland, a first-winter female which was found injured near Kilmore, Co. Wexford, on 3rd October died on 7th. The record of an adult male at Shane's Castle, Co. Antrim, on 24th November 1957—previously accepted as the first for Britain and Ireland (Brit. Birds 53: 149-152)—has now been rejected by the Northern Ireland Bird Records Committee. (France recorded its first Rose-breasted Grosbeak—subject to 584 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985

296. First-winter male Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheuclicus ludovicianus, Scillv, October 1985 (D. M. Collridge) ratification—in 1985: at Ouessant, during 15th-22nd October. Almost predictably, it was a first-winter male.)

Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus (0, 11, 1) Scilly St Mary's, 9 or immature, 9th to 21st October (P. Alev.S. J. Cox, J. Talbot «<Rame Head, Devon—potentially a new species for the Western Pale- arctic—is now with the BOU Records Committee). Thus, the autumn of 1985 was by far the best yet for the total number of American landbirds (see Brit. Birds 78: 586), and seems destined to equal the record 16 species of 1983. It is also notable that nine individuals of six species (and probably 12 individuals of seven species) reached the British mainland, with one pending Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus as far east as Surrey and the Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia in Norfolk (though it is difficult to speculate where that first made landfall). Several American landbirds also reached the Netherlands and France. Species with a predominantly northern distribution in North America (for example, Gray-cheeked Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 585 Thrush Catharus minimus and Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata) were accompanied by species with a predominantly southern distribution (for example, Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea). All in all, a remarkable influx, which would no doubt repay a meteorological analysis.

Appendix 1. Category D species accepted (see Brit. Birds 64: 429) White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus (not known, 12, 0) 1975 Suffolk Minsmere, adult, 2nd May (J. R. Hopkins). (Southeast Europe, West and Southwest Asia and Africa) In 1975, there were also adults (perhaps the same individual) in Essex, Humberside and Kent in July {Brit, Birds 70: 443) and in Dorset in September (Brit. Birds 76: 527).

Blue Rock Thrush Monticola sotitarius (0, 2, 1) Strathclyde Skerryvore Lighthouse, South Minch, 4th to 7th June, found dead 8th (A. McConnell), skin now at BTO, Tring. (Southern Europe, Southern Asia and Northwest Africa) The two previous records were on North Ronaldsay, Orkney, during 29th August to 6th September 1966, and at Rye, East Sussex, on 10th August 1977. The categorisation of Blue Rock Thrush is now being reconsidered by the BOU Records Committee.

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea (0,2, 1) (North America) One was trapped on Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork, during 9th- 19th October. The first in Ireland, following others on Fair Isle, Shetland, in August 1964 and in Essex in September 1973 (Brit. Birds 73: 531). Surely the credentials of the Cape Clear Island individual—which was an immature into the bargain—could scarcely be better?

Painted Bunting Passerina eiris (0,6,0) 1979 Shetland Fair Isle, 6\ 19th to 22nd June (Brit. Birds 73: 531), also 1st July (per N.J. Riddiford). (North and Central America)

Appendix 2. List of records not accepted 1985 White-billed Diver Benbecula, Western Isles, 28th September. Little Shearwater Strumble Head, Dyfed, 1st August; 3rd September; Tumberry Point, Strathclyde, 4th August; St Agnes Head, Cornwall, 3rd September; Hilbre, Merseyside, 21st September. Magnificent Frigatebird Exe Estuary, Devon, 15th November. Frigatebird Between Sumburgh and Fair Isle, Shetland, 28th May. Little Bittern Brown Moss, Shropshire, 22nd December. Lesser White-fronted Goose Tottenhill Gravel-pits, Norfolk, 15th December, Green-winged Teal Beauly Firth, Highland, 25th January to at least 3rd March, Ring-necked Duck Colemere, Shropshire, 4th May. Surf Scoter Blackhall Rocks, Durham, 18th January. Black Kite Dyfi Forest, Gwynedd, 26th April; Prawle Point, Devon, 27th April; near Neath, West Glamorgan, 11th May; Haverton Hill, Cleveland, 6th July; Dorman's Pool, Cleveland, 1st August; River Otter, Devon, 24th October. American Kestrel Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, late November. 586 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 Red-footed Falcon Saltfleetby/Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire, 25th May; Hankerton, Wiltshire, 24th September; Sway, Hampshire, 1st December. Gyrfalcon Heysham, Lancashire, 13th March; Hesketh Marsh, Lancashire, 3rd May; between Kinlochewe and Incheril, Highland, 19th May; between Morecambe and Hest Bank, Lancashire, 23rd November. Little Crake Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, 20th March; Spurn, Humberside, 30th October. Crane Stocker's Lake, Hertfordshire, 13th May. Black-winged Stilt Near Stevenage, Hertfordshire, 12th September. Pratincole Killearn, Central Region, 4th August; West Croydon, Greater London, 9th September. Sociable Plover Bromborough. Merseyside, 26th October. Western Sandpiper Rhosneigr, Anglesey, Gwynedd, 29th June. Baud's Sandpiper Breydon Water, Norfolk, 8th to 9th May, two, 9th. Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Papa Westray, Orkney, 2lst September. Great Snipe Ashurst, Hampshire, 20th January; Tilney All Saints, Norfolk, 20th February; Loch Lyon, Tayside, 5th June. Dowitcher Red Rocks, Merseyside, 29th September. Greater Yellowlegs Keyhaven Marsh, Hampshire, two, 31st March. Lesser Yellowlegs Langness, Isle of Man, 20th August. Wilson's Phalarope Aldenham Reservoir, Hertfordshire, 19th January; Guardbridge, Fife, 16th November. Laughing Gull Rossall Point, Lancashire, 9th March; Hayle, Cornwall, 26th July; Landguard, Suffolk, 30th December. Slender-billed Gull Seaforth Dock Pools, Merseyside, 24th to 26th February; Hardwick, Hereford & Worcester, 22nd December. Ring-billed Gull Aberystwyth, Dyfed, 12thjanuary; River Itchen, Hampshire, 14thJanuary; Chelmarsh Lake, Shropshire, 16th to 21st January and 16th February; Hoy, Orkney, 17thjanuary; Titchfield Haven, Hampshire, !9th January; St Mary's, Scilly, 1st February; Abberton Reservoir, Essex, 3rd to 10th February; Gwithian, Cornwall, 17th February; Chew Valley Lake, Avon, 17th February; Aberystwyth, Dyfed, 19th February; Lerwick, Shetland, 19th February; Beesands Ley, Devon, 20th February; South Muskam, Nottinghamshire, 24th February; near Shoeburyness, Essex, 25th February; Broadwater, Gwynedd, 25th February; Frodsham, Cheshire, 7th.April; Taff/Ely Estuary, South Glamorgan, 25th May and 4th June; St Mary's, Scilly, 1st June; Snettisham, Norfolk, 9th June; Blakeney Marsh, Norfolk, 9th September; Anstruther, Fife, 20th September; Gibraltar Point, Lincolnshire, 28th September; Elvaston, Derbyshire, 20th October; Bornish, South Uist, Western Isles, 3rd November; Hanningfield Reservoir, Essex, 30th December. Gull-billed Tern Barn's Ness, Lothian, 15th August; Great Orme, Gwynedd, 26th August; Penmaenmawr, Gwynedd, 14th September. Lesser Crested Tern Seaton Snook, Cleveland, 2nd August. Sooty Tern Off Teignmouth, Devon, two, 3rd June; Hunstanton, Norfolk, 5th September. White-winged Black Tern Rockcliffe Marsh, Cumbria, 29th May; Cemlyn Bay, Anglesey, Gwynedd, 17th August; Ely, Cam­ bridgeshire, 30th August. Alpine Swift Barnsley, South Yorkshire, 3rd April; Alloa, Fife, 28th May. Short-toed Lark Spurn, Humberside, 28th May; Tresco, Scilly, second individual, 13th October. Crested Lark Orpington, Kent, 16th to 17th January; Dawlish Warren, Devon, 13th May. Crag Martin Radipole, Dorset, 23rd June; Hornchurch, Essex, 7th July. Olive-backed Pipit near Hilbre, Merseyside, 2nd November. Pechora Pipit near Burley, Hampshire, 11th February. Red-throated Pipit Seaford Head, East Sussex, 24th March; Salthouse, Norfolk, 8th April; Nene River Outfall, Lincolnshire, 7th October. Citrine Wagtail Barling Hall, Essex, 1st January. Siberian Stonechat Dunwich Common, Suffolk, 2nd March. Isabelline Wheatear Red Rocks, Argyll, Strathclyde, 27th May. Desert Wheatear Porthgwarra, Cornwall, 19th October. Hume's Wheatear Gugh, Scilly, 8th April. Eye-browed Thrush Near St Austell, Cornwall, 17th November. Dusky Thrush Aberfeldy, Tayside, 29th January. Lanceolated Warbler Blakeney Point, Norfolk, 28th September. Moustached Warbler Blakeney Point, Norfolk, 23rd May. Arctic Warbler Widewall, South Ronaldsay, Orkney, 24th September; St Mary's, Scilly, 25th September; Hengistbury Head, Dorset, 30th September. Pallas's Warbler St Mary's, Scilly, 25th October; Wraysbury Gravel-pits, Berkshire, 7th November. Radde's Warbler Fife Ness, Fife, 23rd May. Dusky Warbler Saltfleetby/Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire, 21st October; Inner Fame, Northumberland, 23rd October. Bonelli's Warbler St Ives, Cornwall, 8th to 10th August; Belfairs Nature Reserve, Essex, 3rd September; Fife Ness, Fife, 23rd September. Collared Flycatcher Fishbourne, West Sussex, 4th May. Wallcreeper Sidmouth, Devon, 29th December. Penduline Tit Titchwell, Norfolk, 26th October. Isabelline Shrike Thorpeness, Suffolk, 10th to 11th October. Nutcracker Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, 13th January; Whitstable, Kent, 15th June; near Langham, Essex, 25th November. Arctic Redpoll Leverton Marsh, Lincolnshire, 1st December; Munlochy Bay, Highland, 15th December. Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 587 Two-barred Crossbill Bridlestones, Dally Forest, North Yorkshire, 15th January; Grinkle Park, Cleveland, 16th to 17th June; Rostherne Mere, Cheshire, three, 27th October.

1984 Pied-billed Grebe River Otter, Devon, 4th December. Night Heron Between Lechlade and Inglesham, Wiltshire, 15th July. Blue-winged Teal Great Totham, Colman's Reservoir, Abberton Reservoir, Essex, various dates, 29th April to 22nd August. King Eider North of Fetlar, Shetland, 20th January. Surf Scoter St Ives, Cornwall, 6th November. Black Kite Great Totharn, Essex, 4thJune. Gyrfalcon Stranraer, Dumfries & Galloway, 23rd December. Little Bustard Weybourne, Norfolk, 18th November. Lesser Golden Plover Chew Valley Lake, Avon, 17th October. Western Sandpiper Cheddar Reservoir, Somerset, 23rd September. Least Sandpiper Grutness, Shetland, 21st September. White-rumped Sandpiper Ferrybridge, Dorset, 10th November. Baird's Sandpiper Cuckmere Haven, East Sussex, 11th October. Broad-billed Sandpiper Burgh Marsh, Cumbria, 18th September. Marsh Sandpiper Cuerdley Marsh, Cheshire, 19th May. Audouin's Gull Meols, Mersey- side, 8th January. Ring-billed Gull Drift Reservoir, Cornwall, 21st January; near Sennen, Cornwall, 29th April; Cheddar Reservoir, Somerset, 9th August. Caspian Tern Point of Ayre, Isle of Man, 5th August. White-winged Black Tern Retford, Nottinghamshire, 13th August. Pallid Swift Blakeney Point, Norfolk, 12th November. Alpine Swift near Kinlochewe, Highland, 28th July. Roller Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, 4th December. Short-toed Lark Spurn, Humberside, 17th June. Lesser Short-toejJ Lark Spurn, Humberside, 14th November. Red-rumped Swallow Bewl Bridge Reservoir, East Sussex, 3rd May; Crumbles, Eastbourne, East Sussex, 6th May. Swainson's Thrush; Sumburgh, Shetland, three, 22nd September. Red-throated Thrush Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, 22nd January. Greenish Warbler Wells, Norfolk, 5th September. Bonelli's Warb.ler Bradworthy, Devon, 3rd May. Woodchat Shrike Spurn, Humberside, 11 th May. Little Bunting Loch of Spiggie, Shetland, 25th September.

1983 Albatross Muck, Western Isles, 22nd July. Surf Scoter Sandwich Bay, Kent, 16th January. Black Kite Rhosneigr, Anglesey, Gwynedd, 16th May. Gyrfalcon Aber Dysynni, Gwynedd, 14th November. Baillon's Crake Marazion, Cornwall, 23rd August. Marsh Sandpiper Reston, Borders, 14th August. Ring-billed Gull St Helen's, Isle of Wight, 6th February. Short-toed Lark Easington, Humberside, 29th May. Rose-coloured Starling Sidmouth, Devon, 12th November. 1982 White-billed Diver Cley, Norfolk, 4th February. Cory's Shearwater Peel Castle Rocks, Isle of Man, 18th July. American Wigeon Willen Lake, Buckinghamshire, 8th November. Ring-necked Duck Slapton Ley, Devon, 21st September. Red-footed Falcon Willen Lake, Buckinghamshire, 27th June. Gyrfalcon Burghead, Highland, 20th February. Broad-billed Sandpiper Elmley, Kent, 11 th August. Bonaparte's Gull Ynys-Hir, Dyfed, 21st November, Slender-billed Gull Hanover Point, Isle of Wight, 19th September; St Helen's, Isle of Wight, 12th December. Gull-billed Tern Ryde, Isle of Wight, 8th July. Savi's Warbler Shanklin, Isle of Wight, 28th April. 1981 Cory's Shearwater Peel Castle Rocks, Isle of Man, 10th August. American Wigeon Davidstow, Cornwall, 5th October; Livermere, Suffolk, 25th September; Burrator Reservoir, Devon, 10th November. Gyrfalcon Sandwich Bay, Kent, 1st October. Little Swift Fowey, Cornwall, 21 st August. Aquatic Warbler West Somerton, Norfolk, 27th September. 1980 American Wigeon Cley, Norfolk, 3rd September. Red-footed Falcon New Forest, Hampshire, 6\ 12th July. Red-throated Pipit Capel Fleet, Kent, 28th August. 1979 White-tailed Eagle Shanklin, Isle of Wight, two, 12th March. 588 Rare birds in Great Britain in 1985 1977 Purple Heron Hickling, Norfolk, 7th June. Alpine Swift Shanklin, Isle of Wight, 13th October. 1975 Purple Heron Sheringham, Norfolk, 17th May. 1972 Black Kite Ramsgatc, Kent, 30th November. 1963 Parrot Crossbill Whatton Manor, Nottinghamshire, 3rd March. 'Category D' records not accepted 1985 Salter North Ronaldsay, Orkney, 18th September.