Cover Photograph Pectoral Sandpiper at Maer Lake Graham Sutton -WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY Sixty-Second Annual Report 1992

St. George Printing Works Ltd., . Tel: (0209) 217033

1 CONTENTS

Page Officers for 1993/4 3 Accounts 4-5 Chairman's Report — Richard Hooton 6 Conservation Officer's Report — Andy Pay 8 Editorial and Review of the Year — Stanley Christophers 10 Contributors 18 Species List for 1992 — Stanley Christophers 20 Exotica 156 British Rarities Committee Decisions 157 Ringing Report 1992 — Stanley Christophers 158 Wild birds handled by the R.S.P.C.A. at — Rex Harper 161 An Eastern Great Grey Shrike at — John Ryan and Ren Hath way 162 Tawny systematically taking Fantail Pigeons from a Cornish dovecote during Springs 1990-1992 — David Glue and Brian Langley 163 The Society's Rules 165 Officers 1993-94

President: S. C. Madge, 2 Church Row, , , PL11 3EH Chairman: R. J. Hooton, 17 Hawkens Way, St. Columb Major, TR9 6SS Vice-Chairnian: G. P. Sutton, 6 Elm Drive, , EX23 8EZ General Secretary: Mrs. E. McKenzie, Tregarrick, St. Mawgan-in-Pydar, TR8 4EU Treasurer: Mrs. A. D. Dunstan, Trewargas, , , PL27 7HP Recorder and Editor * Birds in Cornwall' Stanley M. Christophers, Bramblings, Rachels Way, St. Columb Major, TR9 6EP Assistant Recorder: E. J. Cook, 7 Way, , TR7 2AD Conservation Officer: A. R. Pay, 13 Tregellas Road, Mullion, TR12 7DX Assistant Conservation Officer: V. A. Stratton, 2 Alexandra Row, St. Ives, TR26 1EH Field Meetings Officer: D. L. Thomas, Mirador, Whitecross, Newquay, TR8 4LW Newsletter Editor: F. M. Couch, 29 Roman Drive, , PL31 1EL Research Officer: D. Lord, Old Farmhouse, Pentireglaze, , PL27 6UA Joint Secretary, Recorder and Editor ' Bird Report': W. H. Wagstaff, 42 Sally Port, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly and P. Robinson, Riviera House, The Strand, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly Committee Members: B. T. Craven (Launceston), S. F. Jackson (Falmouth), D. I. Julian (Wadebridge) and D. Lewis () - retire 1994. B. C. Wotton () - retires 1995. G. J. Conway (Bodmin), R. Henry (), S. C. Hutchings (Penryn) and V. Simpson () - retire 1996.

3 TRADING AND PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1992

1991 1992 f £ £ INCOME Subscriptions 4,074 Annual Membership 4,239 510 Tax refund on covenanted subscriptions 569

4,584 4,808 242 Donations 215 413 Rents 233

32 32 711 1,055 2,816 1,229

3,559 2,316 Other Income 420 Sale of Annual Reports — Mainland 350 1,449 - Scilly 1,237 757 Camel Estuary Study Group 812 836 Art Exhibition & Newquay Conference — 332 228 _ 250 — Grants: Walmsley Sanctuary 2,550

3,794 5,427

12,592 12,999 Less: GENERAL EXPENDITURE Annual Reports: 3,255 Mainland 3,604 1,887 Scilly 3,045 1,550 News Letters 737 762 Other Printing and Stationery 972 1,167 Postages and Telephone 1,163 185 Bank Charges 185 519 Hide and Reserve Expenses 526 243 Subscriptions 119 109 Goods for resale 197 151 Publicity 8 168 Youth and Education — 756 Camel Estuary Study Group 1,600 727 Art Exhibition & Newquay Conference — 507 Miscellaneous 477

11,986 12,633 606 366 Less SPECIAL EXPENDITURE 644 New Hide — — 602 New Hide — Walmsley — 2,565 Walmsley Sanctuary Development 2,289 240 Software for Scillies Recorder — 250 CTNC — Grant, Projector and Screen — Purchase of Maer Lake 12,500 Valley 25 - Isles of Scilly Rat Clearance and Ringing 550 4,301 15,364

-£3,695 EXCESS OF EXPENDITURE OVER INCOME -£14,998

4 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER, 1992

1991 1992 £ £ £ INVESTMENTS: £902.24 Vh% War Loan at market price at 329 31st December, 1992 357 13,275 NSB Investment Account 6,830

13,604 7,187 CURRENT ASSETS: 242 Stock 140 367 Sundry Debtors 135 12,500 COIF Charities Deposit Account 3,800 718 Bank Current Account 1,322

13,827 5,397 CURRENT LIABILITIES: 430 Subscriptions in advance 586 33 Sundry Creditor

463 586 13,364 NET CURRENT ASSETS 4,811

£26,968 NET ASSETS £11,998 ACCUMULATED FUNDS 30,637 Balance at 1st January, 1992 26,968 3,695 Less: Excess of Expenditure over Income for the year 14,998

26,942 11,970 26 Increase/(Decrease) in market value of War Loan 28

£26,968 £11,998 NOTE: The Society also owns land at Trethias Island and Walmsley Sanctuary together with a half share of Maer Lake purchased this year, in addition to the assets shown in this Balance Sheet.

ACCOUNTANTS REPORT

In accordance with instructions given to us, we have prepared, without carrying out an audit, the attached Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31st December 1992 from the accounting records of the Society and from information and explanations supplied to us. We certify that the Accounts are correctly drawn up in accordance therewith.

Dated: 5th April, 1993 Whitaker, Redfearn, Pappin Newquay Chartered Accountants

5 Chairman's Report 1993

Committee change The year saw many changes in our team, and I would like to say a big thank you to all those retiring officers who have contributed to the Society. I would especially like to recognize the hard work of our outgoing Chairman, Les Smith and Secretary, Mike Lawson; their efforts have left us with a well organised and financially sound Society. Trustees Recent guidance issued by the Charity Commissioners has meant us having to look closely at the role of our four trustees. These persons are entrusted with our Society and therefore we have to look closely at how we work with them, and vice versa. Peggy Visick has recently resigned her Trusteeship, and I would like to personally recognize all her work on behalf of the Society. New trustees are Viv Stratton and Bruce Wotton. Bird Reports Again we have seen the production of two splendid reports. The mainland report came second in the British Birds best annual bird report award, and gained a similar position last year — a tremendous achievement. It is my personal opinion that the benefit we can offer our members by providing them with TWO REPORTS is second to none. Maer Lake The Society has now purchased 22 acres of Wetland grazing meadows, in conjunction with Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation (CTNC). The site is just to the north of Bude and is open and easily accessible for all our members. The Lake has a remarkable list, including some real spring and autumn cripplers. It is mainly due to the efforts of one person that the saving of this site has been made possible — Graham Sutton. Obviously I would like to thank all those who have given with such generosity (please keep it coming, the appeal fund is still open!), but the greatest thanks have to go to Graham. Walmsley Sanctuary The work on this reserve is now almost complete, with the provision of a hide for our members. The transformation of the habitat for birds and other flora and fauna in the sanctuary has been tremendous, and this was recognized when the County Council awarded us second prize in a competition for environmental projects. Where are we going in 1993/4? This question was brought home to me earlier in the year when a member asked me — are we a birding society or a building society? For those that have looked at our balance sheet over the years could not disagree that our financial management has not been sound, but we have to ask have we been providing enough for our members. I am not advocating that we go out and spend our resources just like that, far from it. What I am saying is that we should listen to our membership more in respect of what they want. This is where you can help the Society by letting us know your views: write to us, or speak to a committee member if you can. The Society will try to reflect what its members want.

6 The year ahead We shall continue as a voluntary organisation committed to our two objectives. The birds of Cornwall must always come first. Our membership has not suffered as a result of our subs, increase (currently standing at c.950) and I would like to thank the membership for sticking with us. I am anticipating a real increase in members this year. Management of our reserves is a priority, and the availability of grant aid for much of this work has greatly eased the financial burden that we could have suffered. However, for those physically able persons who cannot resist getting stuck in, the usual work parties will be available. The recessionary downturn has reduced the pressures on some of our threatened birding areas in the County, but unfortunately the same cannot be said for some of South West Waters' estate. I hope that the dialogue we have had and continue to have with them will overcome these problems. Birding issues and conservation is all about working in partnership, and to this end I hope that we can build on the relationship we have with the CTNC, B.W.P.S., English Nature, and all the other wildlife groups throughout the County. Finally, I wish you all a successful birding season whether it is your desire to twitch or to just watch our birds. Richard Hooton Chairman.

7 Conservation Officer's Report

The twelve months which have elapsed since last year's Report have seen the Society make further substantial progress towards becoming an effective bird conservation body, one able to meet at least some of the challenges of the 1990's. Our purchase of Maer Lake at Bude, jointly with the Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation means that this nine hectare site is now safeguarded from the threat of drainage which has hung over it for so long. With wintering populations of hundreds of Common Snipe, , European Golden Plover, Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Wigeon and Common Teal it is a vital reserve. A joint management committee has been appointed and will take steps initially to monitor water levels and water quality, and to look into ways of controlling the dominant yellow iris. Grazing has played an important part in maintenance of the habitat here, so a grazing agreement has been signed to ensure that it continues. It is worth noting that Bude Marshes Local Nature Reserve, on the other side of the town, won first prize in the Cornwall County Council Countryside Awards for the owners, District Council. Our Society's representatives on that management team took a leading role in instigating the great improvements that have been made at this site. A formal management plan for the Society's other reserve, the Walmsley Sanctuary near Wadebridge, has now been prepared, with grant aid from English Nature. It sets out various work programmes designed to achieve our targets for the reserve. These are primarily to maintain suitable habitat and conditions for migrant and wintering wildfowl and waders, and also for breeding species. Once again the reserve is run by a management sub-committee. Recent work has included some re-building of the embankment to reduce leakages, whilst plans for the near future are the eradication of patches of rushes to increase the area of open ground, repairs to our boundary hedges and improvements to the sluices to give us better control over water levels. We are delighted to achieve third place in the Countryside Awards mentioned above. Finance for the Walmsley project continues to come from the Countryside Commission under its Countryside Stewardship Scheme. We have been concerned that, since the water industry was privatised, the interests of nature conservation might be gradually losing out to recreational pursuits, which are likely to bring in greater financial returns. This is despite clear and concise provision having been made in the 1989 Water Act for conservation to be given due regard in the formulation of reservoir use policy. Following the announcement of a new water skiing venture at Reservoir, which was introduced without any prior consultation with other reservoir users (including through us, the birds!), we met with officials from South West Water in a sort of damage limitation exercise. Having seen Porth, Siblyback and large areas of other reservoirs lose their value for birds, I hope that the new lines of communication that we have set up with the water company will ensure that the remaining waters will be properly maintained for wildlife. Two Local Authority decisions during the year were good news. Carrick District Council voted to support the proposed extension of the Malpas Site of Special Scientific Interest upstream from Boscawen Park, . This followed a public meeting at which the Society's views were represented. Added protection will now be afforded to this section of the river which is nationally important for its wintering Black-tailed Godwits. A proposal to in-fill wet meadows at , near , was turned down by the Local Authority after strong objections from a number of conservation bodies, including the Society. At the time of writing a decision is awaited from Borough Council on the application to construct a stock car and scramble track on land in an area which is one of the most important in the county for birds of prey. When asked to deliberate on the possibility of a similar application twelve months ago, the Council resolved that permission would be refused on the grounds of unsuitable location, prominent position, detrimental to amenities, likely ecological damage and traffic/highway objections'. Some people just can't take a hint. Moving on to the welfare of some of our breeding birds, results from our 1992 Cirl Bunting survey indicated, as we suspected, that this species is on the verge of extinction in Cornwall. Nevertheless, I am in contact with the R.S.P.B. in Devon where Cirl Buntings

8 are currently flourishing, in an effort to help our local birds to survive. Peregrine Falcons may be becoming a common sight along our coasts, but they are still in need of our protection. As such we have been liaising with the National Trust to keep the breeding cliffs out of climbing guides. On the we have been involved with English Nature and the Forestry Commission in creating nesting sites for European Nightjars. A total of eighteen Barn Owl nestboxes have been installed in this area with assistance from Lizard Conservation volunteers and help from Cornwall Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group. As you will have noticed our working links with other organisations have been considerably expanded recently. With the creation of our new post of Research Officer, we have been able to increase our survey work — Derek Lord has already organised censuses of Common Shelduck and Common Stonechat. As a postscript to an item in last year's Report, District Council eventually did the decent thing and resolved not to cull the Herring Gulls which had been causing a nuisance around St. Ives. The problem is being tackled from the right end, ie: in the provision of a secure and efficient refuse disposal scheme. A pleasing note on which to end my report on a generally encouraging year for bird conservation in Cornwall. Andy Pay Conservation Officer

9 Editorial and Review of the Year

A total of 274 species and at least ten distinctive sub-species or races were reported during 1992 and found to be acceptable. 360 observers submitted records for consideration. The vast majority were, as usual, of a high standard but unfortunately the lack of, or inadequate description of some county rarities precluded their inclusion in this Report. An undisputed Pied-billed Grebe was new to the county whilst a pratincole confidently identifed by all who saw it as a Black-winged will also be new to the county if accepted by BBRC. Dusky Warbler was reported for the second (and later third) time, Rustic and Black- headed Buntings for the third time and Franklin's Gull for the fourth time. Other BBRC accepted additions to the County List from previous years were Soft- plumaged Petrel, Isabel line Shrike and Yellow-throated Vireo (all 1989) and Olive- backed Pipit (1991). Little Egrets continued to consolidate (but there was no proof of breeding), there were small influxes of Red-footed Falcons, Buff-breasted Sandpipers, Yellow-browed Warblers, Brambling and Common Rosefinch and excellent seabird movements in August. Long-eared bred for only the fifth time whilst Common Crossbill were successful at Halvana and European Nightjar apparently enjoyed a much better year. Conversely, Grey Partridge appear to be on the verge of extirpation locally, whilst the range of the Corn Bunting continues to contract. The mild weather experienced at the end of 1991 continued into the New Year. January was generally •ettled but there were occasional westerly gales and developing high pressure late in the month produced foggy spells and plummetting temperatures resulting in a few days of severe frost. Birds overwintering from 1991 included four Black-necked Grebes, at least 26 Little Egrets, two Eurasian Spoonbills, seven Whooper Swans, two Bean Geese, four Greylag Geese, a drake Rine-necked Duck, three Velvet Scoter, at least ten Hen Harriers, 200 Avocet, four Whimbrel, eleven Ring-billed Gulls, at least one Long-eared Owl and a Ring Ouzel. Wildfowl flocks were generally small but were to increase to near normal later in the month, whilst winter thrush numbers were low — the mild conditions apparently enabling them to remain farther north and east. A good find on New Years Day was a Yellow-browed Warbler at Hayle Millpond. Overwintering by this species has become increasingly regular in recent years and it is now of almost annual occurrence. Last year's small autumn influx of Long-eared Owls was highlighted by singles at St. Wenn on 7th and Gannel Estuary on 8th. A few displaced wildfowl appeared including a Velvet Scoter at Polurrian, a drake Green- winged Teal at and a female Ruddy Duck (possibly the 1991 bird) at Loe Pool. These were fairly predictable but three Blue-winged Teal at Upper Tamar Reservoir on 11th were unique. Although decidedly difficult to locate they remained into April with the two drakes seen displaying to the female on one occasion. Four Tundra (Bewick's) Swans frequented a field near for three weeks, a short stay White- fronted Goose was at Upper Tamar Reservoir, equally mobile Whooper Swans appeared at Drift Reservoir and Camel Estuary and three Ruddy Duck were seen briefly at Lynher Estuary. flocks, with two notable exceptions, were scarce. At Tregonetha Downs, visitors to the Hen Harrier roost had been aware of an increasingly large flock of Reed

10 Buntings roosting in the moorland grasses. Two diligent fieldworkers visiting the site with a view to trapping and ringing Reed Buntings located a fine male Little Bunting which, although furtive and frequently difficult to locate provided many local birders with a hard-earned 'tick'. Remarkably, within two weeks, another was located on a new housing estate on the outskirts of Bude. Both birds remained for several weeks, but the Bude bird with its more confiding nature and solitary disposition was the more easily detectable. Like Yellow-browed Warbler, wintering reports of this species have become almost annual in recent years and it seems a likely candidate for removal from the list of species considered by BBRC. The other noteworthy passerine flock was found on set-a-side fields at . It was comprised mainly of Sky Larks, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Linnet, Yellowhammer and Reed Buntings but also contained up to three Brambling, four Snow Bunting and 18 Corn Buntings. Meanwhile, gull numbers were augmented by early passage birds including six newly arrived Iceland Gulls. February weather continued in the same vein as January — unseasonably mild and settled with a few days of southwesterly gales mid-month. Consequently there was an early exodus of wildfowl and wintering thrushes with few new arrivals. The previously mentioned Little Bunting, a Marsh Harrier at Camel Estuary a roost of three Long-eared Owls at and at least four Velvet Scoter illuminated an otherwise uninspired month for . March was an unsettled month with a northwesterly airstream dominating. The middle of the month was mild but later a succession of cold northerly winds inhibited early immigration. With Bohemian Waxwings irrupting in large numbers once again it was not surprising that two reached early in the month. A few summer migrants arrived but numbers were low. Sand Martin on 4th, Barn Swallow on 9th, Sandwich Tern on 23rd, Garganey on 24th and House Martin on 28th were fairly predictable but the Willow Warbler singing at on 18th was the second earliest ever whilst a Dartford Warbler at Kynance was unexpected. A Common Crane at Crowdy Reservoir on 8th moved quickly through and Bonaparte's Gulls at and Camel Estuary on 8th and 29th respectively maintained a successful run for this dapper little gull in recent years. A Red Kite in suitable breeding habitat at for a few days in mid month briefly raised optimism, but it moved on. The first three weeks of April continued the unsettled theme with the persistent southwesterly airstream not conducive to any mass arrivals of migrants. At the beginning of the month a small flock of Water Pipits gathered at Walmsley Sanctuary and peaked at six on 3rd. Incoming and outgoing Ring Ouzels overlapped on 4th and 5th and an early Yellow Wagtail was observed at Colliford on 5th. Less common fare included a Marsh Harrier at Camel Estuary and a typically brief Alpine Swift at Loe Pool on 11th. The first Sedge Warbler was heard at Marsh on 14th, Whimbrels were passing over from 15th and the first Common Cuckoo made landfall at on 17th, but the majority of migrants were delayed until a brief spell of southerly winds from 19th to 26th produced the first major influx of the spring. Although numbers were small the diversity of species was excellent. Common Whitethroat, Wood Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher appeared on 19th whilst two Kentish Plovers, Pomarine Skua, Little Tern, eight Tree Pipits, Whinchat, scores of Willow Warblers plus a small number of Common Swifts and the first of 17 Hoopoes in five days all arrived on 20th. The first of only three migrant Common Redstarts was found the following day, together with a mini-invasion of Grasshopper Warblers, Pied Flycatcher and a strange Great Grey Shrike showing characteristics of one of the eastern races. Another Bonaparte's Gull was identified on 22nd and a White Stork flew over on 23rd. How long, one wonders, before this species is re-instated to the list of birds considered by BBRC — it certainly appears to be occurring less frequently than it did ten years ago? A rare spring Richard's Pipit spent a few hours 'schreeping' around Walmsley Sanctuary on 24th, a Golden Oriole was found at on 25th, an obliging Woodchat Shrike spent a couple of days at and the fourth Bonaparte's Gull of the year arrived at Swanpool.

ii Reed Warblers were exceptionally late, with none before 25th, the same day as a Lesser Whitethroat was heard at Rame Head. An inland at was unusual, but reliably reported on 28th. There was then a paucity of new arrivals until mid May. Once the weather finally settled down it proved to be the warmest May for 160 years with mainly east to southeasterly winds drawing in warm air from the continent. These conditions typically produce good numbers of rarities and 1992 was to prove no exception, although Cornwall fared comparatively poorly. Superb, obliging rarities included a Squacco Heron at and a Black-winged Stilt at Marazion. Twelve Golden Orioles added colour to the valleys of the Land's End peninsula whilst observers fortunate to be in the right place at the right time encountered a European Serin at on 13th, a male Subalpine Warbler at Skewjack on 15th, a Purple Heron at and Woodchat Shrike and European Bee-eater at Porthgwarra on 16th, a male Black-headed Bunting at Gwithian on 20th, a European Bee- eater at on 23rd, a Temminck's Stint at Walmsley Sanctuary on 24th, a Little Bittern at Porthgwarra on 25th, a singing Marsh Warbler at Gwithian on 28th and a Common Rosefinch at Mullion the same day. Red-footed Falcons had arrived in small flocks in South and South-east and it was therefore no surprise to receive reports from Porthgwarra on 21st and Lundy Bay on 27th. Other rare raptors were not numerous but included single Marsh Harriers at Porthgwarra and , a peregrinating Osprey reported almost universally in West Penwith and single Honey-buzzards at Cape Cornwall and . The first of eight Quail this year was heard at Gwithian on 17th, two Little Ringed Plover dropped in briefly at Maer Lake on 18th and the sole Black Tern of the spring was at Tamar Lake on 25th. In the midst of this busy spell the County Birdrace took place. It is most gratifying to report that the 'In Focus Flyers' took on Cornwall and amassed a total of 128 species between 0001 hours and 2359 hours on Monday 18th May. The team consisting of David Barker, Paul Higson, Richard Campey and myself were set a target of 110 species. This total was easily passed, but the success was undoubtedly the result of considerable homework by the team members. With two County Recorders in the line up and two members of a previously successful team, there was plenty of knowledge and experience to pool. The winning percentage of 116.3% was less than 1 % ahead of the second placed team from Cheshire. The winners prize of £1,000 was donated to the main beneficiary of this year's race, 'The Spanish Steppes Appeal'. After the euphoria of the bird race it was back to more mundane matters — collating records of breeding birds. Many supposedly common summer migrants were in desperately short supply. Tree Pipit, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Willow Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher were all noticeably thin on the ground whilst our breeding waders; Northern Lapwing, Common Snipe and Eurasian Curlew all continue to decline. Cirl Buntings, after an encouraging year in 1991, confounded optimistic predictions with a disastrous reversal this year. Successes included Great Crested Grebes at two sites, two pairs of Hobby, at least nineteen pairs of Peregrine Falcons, continuing colonisation by Cetti's Warblers, two pairs of Dartford Warblers and at least one pair of Common Crossbills. A pair of Long-eared Owls bred at Colliford and the number of churring male European Nightjars was the highest for at least twenty years. Little Egrets lingered into early summer but despite persistent rumours breeding has still to be proven. Settled weather continued throughout June with a mainly easterly airflow dominating the first half of the month ensuring the warmest June since 1956. Small numbers of tardy migrants continued to arrive, notably Common Swift, hirundines and common warblers. Less usual were a Hooded Crow at on 6th, a singing male Common Rosefinch at Portquin on 7th and a fine summer-plumaged Black Guillemot off on 8th. Two more Red-footed Falcons were found, at Kynance on 13th and Crows-an-wra on 20th. These were undoubtedly birds which had made landfall elsewhere in southern Britain and gradually progressed westwards. Serious sea-watching got off the ground with Rame Head proving the most intensively watched and most productive site. Single Long-tailed Skuas there on 6th and 9th preceded

12 the first European Storm-petrel of the year on 20th. Elsewhere a second winter Iceland Gull lingered at Hayle Estuary and two Roseate Terns were identified in Mounts Bay on 28th. July was a hot, humid month punctuated by frequent heavy rain and thunderstorms. It was an exceptionally quiet month for birds, although the first of an excellent passage of Cory's Shearwaters were noted off Porthgwarra on 11th and an early Great Shearwater was identified off Rame Head on 19th. A Ruddy Shelduck of dubious provenance remained at Crowdy Reservoir for several weeks and a Honey-buzzard flew south over Stithians Reservoir on 27th. Small parties of returning waders were evident and included two Little Ringed Plovers at Colliford Reservoir and a Purple Sandpiper at Godrevy on 31st. August, peak month for Cornwalls' main industry, tourism, was a virtual wash-out. It proved the wettest for at least six years resulting from a continous run of low pressure systems with associated southwesterly winds ana almost daily precipitation. The primary consequence of this unabated turmoil along the coast was the presence of large numbers of in the southwestern approaches. Regular sea watching off the south coast, notably Porthgwarra, in the first half of the month, provided excellent counts of many species, particularly Cory's Shearwaters which peaked at 641 on 11th. Elsewhere a pristine Franklin's Gull sojourned at Crowdy Reservoir on 2nd, the first of five Aquatic Warblers arrived at Marazion Marsh, the county's earliest ever autumn Common Goldeneye appeared at Camel Estuary on 8th and the first of a paltry passage of only 17 Curlew Sandpipers was at Tamar Estuary on 9th. The only Montagu's Harrier of the year flew over on 25th and Little Ringed Plovers were at Loe Pool and Crowdy Reservoir. Sea-watching in the second half of the month was generally more interesting off the north coast, despite a Sabine's Gull off on 23rd, a Leach's Storm-petrel off Porthgwarra on 28th, a Long-tailed Skua off Treen the same day and a Great Shearwater off Killigerran Head on 29th. Off the north coast there was Great Shearwater at Pendeen on 30th, varying counts of Sabine's Gulls off Pendeen, St. Ives, Godrevy, Newquay and the same day and single Long-tailed Skuas at Pendeen on 30th and 31st. Other highlights included the county's earliest ever autumn record of Goosander, at Crowdy Reservoir on 22nd, an Osprey at Drift Reservoir on 23rd and a stray Aquatic Warbler at the same location on 27th. The weather of September was typically unpredictable. Almost daily rain with unrelenting south to southwesterly winds hindered the passage of continental waders and through the county until mid-month, but the strong winds did result in small arrivals of Buff-breasted and Pectoral Sandpipers. Sea-watching conditions remained favourable with the largely expected species reported. Little Stint passage was the lightest since 1982 but a Dotterel at Airfield was a considerable consolation. A Barred Warbler at Holmans Moors proved characteristically skulking and a Tawny Pipit moved quickly through Porthgwarra. A large gaggle of 58 Brent Geese was found in Mounts Bay on 11th and smaller parties were observed at several other sites at about this time. Continental drift migrants were more in evidence from 12th. The first of 17 Wrynecks appeared at whilst Icterine Warblers were at Porthgwarra and Cot and a Woodchat Shrike frequented Porthgwarra. The recently acquired reserve at Maer Lake proved its value mid-month with two Garganey, a Spotted Crake and a Pectoral Sandpiper all present. The first major 4fair of autumn occurred on 18th to 20th. One of the most notable features was an unprecedented passage of Common Buzzards, particulary in the Land's End/Sennen area which held up to fifty birds on 20th. Paradoxically, few rare raptors were reported; a Northern Goshawk at Caerthillian on 17th and a Marsh Harrier at Sennen on 18th being the most prominent.

Large pipit reports increased with a Richard's at Cot and three Tawnys at Treen plus

13 another at Dodman. Other passerines included a total of c.122 Yellow Wagtails, a Melodious Warbler at Lizard, Red-backed Shrikes at Kennack Sands and Porthgwarra, two Ortolan Buntings at Trevose Head and Treen and two European Serins in weedy fields at Rame Head. A third European Serin was found at on 25th heralding another small influx of migrants. Two more Red-backed and another Woodchat Shrike were found, as was the only Red-breasted Flycatcher of the autumn. The Treen area has proved a most rewarding site to study in recent autumns and this year was to prove no exception. In addition to earlier rarities a Barred Warbler was found there on 26th and a Subalpine Warbler on 27th. Nearby, diversity was provided by a Melodious Warbler at Nanquidno, a Rufous Nightingale at Porthgwarra, a Northern Goshawk over Sennen and two more Ortolan Buntings, at . The east of the county, although somewhat neglected, was not totally devoid of interest, as Black-necked Grebe at St. Austell Bay, Short-toed Lark at Rame Head and Hoopoe at proved. October is always anticipated with great optimism, but despite large numbers of birders in the field this year, the haul of unusual species was disappointing. This was undoubtedly due to the presence of a stubborn high pressure system centred over the and which persisted for three weeks. This combined with low pressure over Scandinavia resulted in a dearth of common migrants and nothing from the Nearctic. It was generally dull and gloomy with cold northerly-biased winds. Star bird of the month was the undoubted Black-winged Pratincole which was initially located at Davidstow Airfield on 2nd but then proved elusive until re-located in fields near . Some species, notably Red-necked Grebe, Black Redstart, Bearded Tit and Bramblings enjoyed their best autumn for many years whilst Yellow-browed Warblers again appeared in good numbers. Conversely, Siskin passage, which had become such a prominent feature of recent autumn migration, was considerably reduced this year. Rarities included Common Rosefinch at St. Levan on 1st, Rufous Nightingale and Woodchat Shrike at Lizard on 4th, Dotterel at Porthgwarra on 8th, Honey Buzzard at on 11th, Pectoral Sandpiper at Loe Pool and Bluethroat at St. Just — both on 12th. The Bosistow Group, concentrating on the Sennen area found their third Rustic Bunting in consecutive years. Unusual wildfowl included three Pink-footed Geese at Camel Estuary and a Garganey at Hayle Estuary on 6th, odd Whooper and Tundra Swans, two White-fronted Geese and single Long-tailed Duck and Smew. A late Tawny Pipit was identified at Nanquidno on 16th, the only Tree Sparrow of the year was at Porthgwarra on 17th and a European Serin was there the following day. The third Little Bunting of the year was at Cape Cornwall for a few days from 22nd and a Dartford Warbler was in typical (and former) breeding habitat at Rame Head. The vast majority of the commoner summer migrants had left the county but a Lesser Whitethroat lingered at Porthgwarra until 30th. November was a particularly unsettled month with frequent stormy weather and heavy rain resulting in considerable flooding in low-lying districts. Good numbers of Black Redstarts, Chiffchaffs and Firecrests were a feature of the month, whilst other late warblers included single Garden Warblers at Porth Joke and Kenidjack on 8th, a Lesser Whitethroat at on 20th and a Yellow-browed Warbler at the same locality on 23rd. A Dusky Warbler at Kenidjack for several days from 6th was only the second county mainland record. Allowing exceptional views it belied text book claims that the species is an arch skulker. Late in the month, Cornwalls' first (and long awaited) Pied-billed Grebe was identified at Argal Reservoir. It remained into 1993 and was still present at the time of writing (late April) having moved to Stithians Reservoir. Mild, wet and windy weather continued through December until just before Christmas. A few cold, crisp days and nights during the last week of the year failed to produce any notable influxes of wildfowl or winter thrushes. The sole Iceland Gull of the second winter period was at Camel Estuary on 9th and the only Long-tailed Duck report concerned two at Sennen from 12th. Two rare warblers,

14 a Yellow-browed and a Dusky were found at Par and Bay respectively. The former was to stay into 1993, but the Dusky either moved on or succumbed during the cold snap just before Christmas. Many of the Chiffchaffs and Firecrests also moved on at this time. A most unseasonal find was a Turtle Dove at Phi Hack on 27th and a most unusual concentration was a flock of 22 Wood Larks on stubble fields at Maker Heights. A Smew at Siblyback Reservoir on New Years Eve did not stay into 1993. Thanks To everyone who submitted records for inclusion in this Report. To John Cook for his tireless work in recording the Red-legged Partridge to House Martin section of the Report. To Jack Wright and John Ryan for NWC and BOEE counts. To Steve Madge for information from the Field and Natural History Club file. To John Ryan for information from the Birding Southwest file. To Dave Flumm for information from the Lyonesse Guest House Log. To Nigel Bean, Mark Coller, Ren Hath way, Paul Hopkins and Graham Sutton for photographs. To Steve Bird, Ren Hath way, Paul Semmens, James Starr and John Walters for drawings. To David Glue and Brian Langley, Rex Harper and John Ryan for articles and notes. To Dave Flumm, Ted Griffiths, Steve Madge, John Ryan, Roger Smaldon and Victor Tucker for advice and decisions on county rarities and contentious records.

WILDFOWL and WADER COUNTS Responsibility for organising and collating these important counts has now passed to Dr. John Ryan, Lynwood, Landeryon Gardens, , Cornwall. Volunteer counters are always required and anyone interested is asked to contact John at the address above.

RARITIES National rarities Reports of national rarities must be accompanied by a full field description, preferably notes made in the field. Sketches and photographs can be of great assistance but are not normally returnable. These descriptions should be submitted to the Recorder as soon as possible after the occurrence, and should wherever practicable be written on the appropriate form available from the Recorder or from the Secretary to BBRC, M. J. Rogers, Bag End, Churchtown, Towednack, St. Ives, Cornwall, TR26 3AZ. County rarities Owing to the sheer welter of work undertaken voluntarily by members of BBRC the species considered by them is constantly under review. From time to time species establish a regular and frequent pattern of occurrence in the U.K. At such times these species may be removed from the list of National Rarities, whereupon they are automatically installed into the framework of the list of County Rarities. The latter list is also constantly under review and changes are regularly made. Five species (, Surf Scoter, European Bee-eater, Pallas's Leaf Warbler and Woodchat Shrike) were removed from the BBRC list in 1990 and are now incorporated in the County Rarities list. In addition, in an attempt to alleviate some of the paperwork encountered by

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

SUBMISSION OF RECORDS Records should follow the order shown in this Report; not in alphabetical order or diary form. Adherence to these basis guidelines greatly facilitates the extraction of information from observers' notes. Records for 1993 should be sent to the Recorder by 15th January 1994 at the latest. However, to assist with the early publication of the Report I would be pleased to receive the bulk of records at any time during the year. Finally, I apologise for any errors or omissions which are attributable to me. I also welcome any constructive criticism or idea which might improve the Report. Stanley Christophers

County rarities requiring a full description are marked with an asterisk, those requiring fewer notes, but still sufficient to justify the identification, remain unmarked. Red-necked Grebe Sabine's Gull Black-necked Grebe * Ring-billed Gull * Leach's Storm-petrel Iceland Gull Cory's Shearwater * Glaucous Gull Great Shearwater * Roseate Tern Great Bittern Arctic Tern Little Egret Black Guillemot Purple Heron * Rose-ringed Parakeet White Stork * Long-eared Owl Bean Goose * European Bee-eater * Pink-footed Goose * Wood Lark Greylag Goose Horned Lark * Snow Goose * Richard's Pipit * Ruddy Shelduck * Tawny Pipit * Garganey * Water Pipit Red-crested Pochard Yellow Wagtail (variants) Ferruginous Duck * Bohemian Waxwing Greater Scaup * Rufous Nightingale * Surf Scoter * Bluethroat * Velvet Scoter * Cetti's Warbler Smew Savi's Warbler * Ruddy Duck * Aquatic Warbler * Honey-buzzard * Marsh Warbler * Red Kite * Icterine Warbler * Marsh Harrier * Melodious Warbler * Montagu's Harrier * Barred Warbler * Northern Goshawk * Pallas's Leaf Warbler * Rough-legged Buzzard * Yellow-browed Warbler Osprey Red-breasted Flycatcher * Hobby Bearded Tit Spotted Crake Willow Tit * Corn Crake * Golden Oriole Common Crane * Red-backed Shrike Stone-curlew * Great Grey Shrike Little Ringed Plover Woodchat Shrike * Kentish Plover Red-billed Chough Dotterel Tree Sparrow Temminck's Stint * European Serin * Pectoral Sandpiper * Twite * Buff-breasted Sandpiper Common Rosefinch *

16 Red-necked Phalarope * Hawfinch Pomarine Skua Lapland Longspur Long-tailed Skua * Ortolan Bunting * Mediterranean Gull Cirl Bunting Additionally, the Recorder may at any time request full details of an unusual occurrence. Records of the listed species which are not accompanied by adequate detail will not be included in 'Birds in Cornwall'. Contributors

Ahmad, M.K. Christophers, E.M. Gould, R.W. Aley, P.H. Christophers, S.M., Grace, E.Ge. Archer, Mrs. N. Mrs. A.D. & Miss H.M. Grace, N.L. Archer, R. Chugg, B. Grant, G. & I. Aston, A.E.C. Clarke, P. Graves, P.M. Babbington, J.F. Clatworthy, J.M. Green, R.E. Backinshall, D. & H. Clegg, D. Griffiths, D. Bailey, M.R.A. Collinge, D.T. Griffiths, E. Baker, Miss B. Conway, D.A. & Griffiths, G. Baker, K. Mrs. I.M.E. Gynn, G.G. & Dr. E.G. Balligal, N.J. Conway, G.J. Hale, T. Balmer, Miss D.E. Cook, E.J. Hall, M.C. Banerjee, J. Copley, I. Hambridge, K. Banks, S. Couch, F.M. Hanby, Dr. A.M. Barker, D.J. & Mrs. D.C. Courtnell, D.R. (DRC.) Hanby, S. Barron, S.T. Cox, Dr. A.F.J. Hando, N. Barton, I.M. Craven, B.T. Harbour, A. Bassett, J. Cutts, K. Harper, R. Bazeley, D. Dallas, B. (BD.) Harris, J. Bazeley, M.J. Dare, P.J. Hastings, R.B. Bean, N. Davey, A.M.J. Hathway, Mrs. A.C. Beer, M. Davies, Mrs. E. Hathway, R.J. Bennalack, J. Davies, I. (ID.) Hawken, B.J. Bennett, C.R.K. Davis, J. Hawker, B. Bennett, Mr. & Mrs. R.B. Davison, I. Hawkey, J. Beswetherick, R.J. Davison, T. Hebdidge, S.J. Biddick, P. Dennis, D. Herdson, D. Biddick, T.H. Dickie, I. Hey, S. Bingham, C.L. Dickson, Mrs. B. Higman, J. Birch, L.A. Donaghy, N. Hobbs, A. Bird, S. Dukes, P.A. Hobin, G. Birding Southwest (B.) Dunsford, Mrs. B.E. Hocking, G.B. Blacker, H. Dunstan, Mrs. A.D. Hocking, T.W. Blatchford, M. Eddy, S.R. Hollow, D.J. Blonden, A. & P. Edmonds, Miss M. (ME.) Holmes, J.S. Bond, A.J. Edmonds, P. Holmes, R.J. Bond, S.J. Edwards, Mrs. M. Honey church, F.H. Bosistow Group (BG.) Edwards, S.B. Hooper, Mrs. I.J. Bottom, J.E. Elcoat, M. Hooton, R.J. Bourne, C.L. (CLBo.) Elliott, P. Hosking, W.H. Bradshaw, C.G. Eva, D. Howlett, P. Brampton, A. Eynon, R. Innes, R. Brown, R. & J. Finch, J.H. Irving, R.P. Bryden, J.D. Flumm, D.S. Jackson, D. Bull, Mr. & Mrs. A. Ford, D. Jackson, G.C. Burridge, R. (RBu.) Ford, R.W. Jackson, S.F. Butts, R. Ford, S. James, G.F. Camplin, S. Fowling, R.J. James, J.W. Caradon Field and Natural Fray, R. James, R.M.R. History Club Gammage, P.A. Jenkins, Mr. & Mrs. A.G.R. Carne, T.M. Gask, J. Jenkins, J. Cave, D. Geake, Dr. Johnson, D.L. Chegwidden, Mrs. A. George, M. Jonas, H. Chell, D.R. Gibbon, D. Jones, C. Chesher, J. Gilbert, J.S. Jones, P.G. Chown, D.J. Gordan, I. Jones, R.A. Christophers, B.T.S. Gough, I. Jones, S.P.

18 Julian, D.I. Pay, A.R. Spong, P. Keast, T. Payne, D.H. Stafford, P. Kemp, R. Pearce-Smith, D.H. Staite, K. Kendall, F.H.C. Pearman, Mrs. S.J. Starr, J. Kendall, I. Pellow, K. Stephenson, D.J. Knight, D.J. Penhallurick, R.D. Stephenson, G.C. Knox, Dr. A. Perkins, R.J. Stockhausen, R.&J. Kolodziejski, J. Perry, A. Stuart-Smith, J. Kolodziejski, S. Phillips, A. Sutton, G.P. Lamsdell, C. & D.K. Phillips, Mrs. H. Teague, D.M. Langley, B. Phillips, N.J. Tetley, Air Vice Mshll. Large, S. Phillips, N.R. J.F.H. & Mrs. Last W.G. Phillips, Miss R.M. Thomas, D.L. Lawman, Ms. J.M. Phillips, V.E. Thomas, G.H. Law son, M. Pilbeam, S. Thomas, M. Lea, S. Pitt, M.J. Thornett, R. Leavey, G. Potts, F. Thurlow, D. Lee, M.J. Powell, L.S. & Mrs. E. Tonking, C.N. Lee, R.J. Powell, T. Tremewan, Mr. & Mrs. P. Lewis, D. Proctor, L.J. Truscott, L.A.C. Lewis, G.D. Prophet, A.I. Tucker, V.R. Lister, S.M. Pugh, D.F. Turner, K.A. Lloyd-Davies, M. Randall, J.M. Turpitt, L.W. Lyonesse Guest House Reay, J.M. Tyzzer, J.G. Log (L) Reay, P.J. Upton, G.J. McLellan, J. & Mrs. A. Reid, Miss M.J. Visick, Mrs. M.P. McMahon, S. Reynolds, A.F. Wake, R.E. Madge, S.C. Ringrose, G. Wallace, D.I.M. Madge, S.G. Roberts, Dr. H.R.M. Walsh, D. Maker, P.A. Robinson, A.R. Walters, J.M. Mansell, D.N. Rogers, M.J. Warren, G. Marriage, D.H. Round, P.J. Warrender, R. Mason, C. Rowlands, A. Webb, B.L. Mason, R. Rowlands, J.A. Webb, M.J. Masters, C.F. Rowe, Miss B.C. Wheatley, Mrs. M. May, M. Rowe, Dr. G.P.G. White, G.R. & Mrs. M. Mellow, B.K. Rowe, S.G. White, J. Melville, M. Rule, M. White, W.J. Meredith, Mrs. H. (HM.) Russell, M.D. Whitehouse, I.C. Merlane, H. Rutt, R. Whitworth, Dr. C. Miles, H.G. Rutter, P.A. Wickenden, M.J. Miller, J.A. d'E. Sabran, G.R.G. Wicks, S.C. Moncaster, C. Salmon, B. Wilkinson, S. Moore, C.G.R. Salt, Mrs. S. Williams, E.J. Morrison, D.G. Sari, L.A.H. Williams, L.P. Mountain, Miss S. Sawle, A.C. Williams, P. Murray, K. Semmens, M.P. Wilson, J.H.W. Nancarrow, A. Shillingford, J. Witty, Mrs. Noble, K. Sillifant, P.T. Woodman, T. Northcott, W.C. Simmonds, H. Worley, S. Oaks, P.J. Simms, I. Wotton, B.C. O'Connell-Davison, J.B. Smaldon, Dr. G. Wright, J. Odell, D.J. Smaldon, R. Yelland, D.M. O'Shea, P. York, Canon & Mrs. Smale, Mr. & Mrs. J. B.T.O. Park, A.J. & Mrs. S.E. Smith, L.A. & Mrs. F.M R.A.F.O.S. Paterson, D.S.L. Smith, M.S. R.S.P.B. Pattenden, B. Spencer, B.

19 Species List for 1992

A considerable number of changes have been made to the Report this year: a) Species are listed in the order shown in 'The British Birds List of Western Palearctic Birds' published in 1993 and obtainable from 'British Birdshop', Subbuteo Books, Treuddyn, Mold, Clywd, CH7 4LN, priced £1. b) The new list takes account of many proposed and/or necessary name changes. These names are incorporated into this Report and where appropriate the former name is acknowledged. No doubt the changes will initially cause some confusion but observers are requested to utilise them when submitting records. c) Under the majority of species, sightings are listed in date order, ie: localities with January records are placed first and those with December are listed last. This avoids dividing the county into geographical or topographical regions which can lead to confusion when extracting data from reports. d) The table marked 'Approximate monthly county total' illustrates the maximum possible number of birds present in the county, per month. Mobility of individual birds is taken into account and this should help to explain any anomaly between this table and the next section. e) The 'Regular reports and maximum numbers' table replaces in many instances, the BOEE and NWC counts used in previous reports. The new figures represent the maximum count in each month, unlike the tables they supercede which were often ambiguous when compared with other published data. f) For many species, a complete review of historical data has been undertaken and from these the 'Monthly breakdown' and 'Top sites' have been calculated. Wherever possible due regard has been given to rare birds wandering from site to site but with several species, notably seabirds this has proved impractical. g) Abbreviations are kept to an absolute minimum but two which are regularly implemented are 'Est' for estuary and 'Res' for reservoir. The symbol '—' in the various tables indicates that either no birds were present or that no count was received for that particular month. h) Please note the following place name definitions: i) Porthgwarra includes the area south of a line drawn from Carn Les Boel to St. Levan. ii) Mounts Bay refers only to that part of the bay between and Marazion. iii) refers to the bay east of Looe and not the bay of a similar name at Sennen. iv) St. Austell Bay includes Par Bay. v) Pentire Point refers to the headland north of Polzeath, unless otherwise stated. vi) Penlee Point refers to the headland south of Torpoint, not the point near Mousehole. vii) Porth Mear — the valley near not the cove of a similar name near Zennor. References Penhallurick, R.D. 'Birds of the Cornish Coast' Truro 1969. Penhallurick, R.D. 'The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly', Penzance 1978. Rodd, E.H. 'The Birds of Cornwall' London 1880. Ryves, B.H. 'Bird Life in Cornwall' London 1948. Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Reports 1931-1991. Caradon Field and Natural History Club Report 1992. Chown, D.J. & Akers, P.G. 'A Survey of the Breeding Birds of ' 1984. RED-THROATED DIVER - Gavia stellata Uncommon winter visitor. Passage migrant. 20 Although well distributed along the sheltered south coast, recent observations have discovered sizeable concentrations off the north coast, particularly between Perranporth and in early spring. Whilst these flocks are large for Cornwall they are considerably smaller than the parties of several hundreds reported almost annually off Hartland Point, North Devon.

1992 proved a poor year for all three diver species in Cornwall. Generally mild winter weather failed to produce any notable influxes. The present species was noted at 23 sites during the year, twelve on the south coast and eleven on the north coast. Few overwintered from 1991 but there was the usual small spring passage from February to May, with last (six) off Rame Head May 13th. The first in autumn were two flying west at Pendeen Sept 22nd. Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 44 59 16 17 7 — — — 4 6 7 13 Regular reports and maximum numbers Trevose Head/Harlyn Bay: noted until Mar 4th with maz of 20 Jan 11th and 40 Feb 6th. Two Nov 17th, one Dec 22nd. Bedruthan Steps: ten Jan 8th. Park Head: four Jan 10th. : one Jan 11th, five west Mar 13th, nine Apr 4th. Seaton: noted Jan 18th to Mar 14th with max of eight Feb 16th. One Nov 14th to Dec 12th, two Dec 26th. Loe Bar: three Feb 1st. Newquay: noted Feb 13th to Mar 26th with max of four Feb 19th. Singles west Nov 2nd and 11th and Dec 3 rd. Rame Head: eleven west between Feb 22nd and May 13th with max six last date. Two east Oct 3 rd. St. Ives: two Mar 7th, three Mar 15th. One Oct 26th. Pendeen: two Sept 22nd and singles Oct 24th and 27th — all west. Killigerran Head: one Nov 14th, six Dec 5th, one Dec 18th — all west. All other reports concerned one or two birds.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER — Gavia arctica

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Predominandy a bird of the more sheltered south coast with large gatherings in the to Carrick Roads area. / Bay regularly attracts up to 5% of the U.K. winter total. Reasonable numbers are also reported from St. Austell Bay and occasionally Mounts and St. Ives bays. Another disappointing year with reports from only 23 localities, 13 on the south coast and ten on the north coast. Unlike 1991 there was no early year concentration in Falmouth Bay. More typically the main flock remained in the Gerrans/Veryan area, but even here numbers were well below recent maxima. Spring passage was light with the last off Rame Head May 15th.

The first in autumn was one off St. Ives Sept 22nd but there was no more until mid-October. Several were noted flying west during sea-watches on both coasts but the end of year total was small.

Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 68 56 31 54 9 — — — 1 19 23 54

Regular reports and maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Gerrans Bay 26 27 — 8 6 9 — Veryan Bay 22 19 — 25 5 — 19

21 St. Austell Bay 3 2 2 — 2 — — — — 1 — 4 St. Ives 1 1 5 1 — — — — 1 2 — 1

Elsewhere: Mounts Bay: singles Jan 2nd and Feb 25th, six Dec 20th, nine Dec 30th. : five Jan 19th. Portwrinkle: noted Jan 26th to Apr 24th with max of 18 last date. Newquay: three singles between Feb 18th and Apr 17th plus three singles between Oct 23rd and Nov 10th — all west. Rumps Point: singles Oct 26th and Nov. 16th, three Nov 24th — all west. Killigerran Head: eight Nov 14th, eight Dec 5th and three Dec 18th — all west. Falmouth: In December, seven on 1st, eight on 18th and three on 20th. All remaining observations concerned one or two birds.

Black-throated Divers Steve Bird

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER - Gavia immer

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although the most widespread of the divers in Cornwall, most birds tend to be solitary and rarely form anything other than small 'rafts', unlike the more gregarious Red and Black-throated divers. Recent observations have shown St. Austell Bay to be the prime site for this species with good numbers also occurring in Veryan, Gerrans, Mounts and St. Ives bays. After a reasonable year in 1991, there was a reversal this year with reports from a mere thirty localities, twenty on the south coast and ten on the north coast.

Numbers were low at both ends of the year and none summered. The last in spring were singles at Rame Head and Portwrinkle May 30th whilst the first return bird was an early individual off Godrevy Aug 18th.

Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 45 38 18 22 17 - - 1 1 25 16 29

Regular reports and maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Rame Head — — — 5 6 — — — — 1 — 2 Seaton 4 12 6 St. Austell Bay 7 1 10 8 1 — — — 1 2 1 4 Veryan Bay 3 — — — — — — — — 4 — — Gerrans Bay 7 — — 2 — — — — — 3 — — Falmouth Bay 1 3 — 1 1 Mounts Bay 1 5 1 — 2 1 3 St. Ives 3 5 3 1 12 — 1 Newquay 1 1 2 1 6 —

22 Elsewhere:

Looe: six Jan 4th, three Dec 29th. Trevose Head: five Feb 6th, one west Oct 28th. Loe Bar: three May 4th. Rumps Point: four west Nov 12th. Helford Est: three Dec 29th into 1993. No more than two was reported from any other locality.

PIED-BILLED GREBE — Podylimbus podiceps

Rare vagrant. Argal Res: one Nov 28th into 1993. DE et al. Accepted by BBRC. The first Cornish record of this North American grebe.

41 first saw what I believe was this bird on 14th November but I only had it in view for a few seconds before it disappeared into overhanging brambles. This view was obviously inconclusive although I was pretty sure of the identification. I visited again the following day but did not see the bird. On 28th November however, the bird was in open water diving and I watched it for over half an hour in excellent light conditions, down to 25 metres through x25 telescope.

The following points were noted: Short, stubby, blunt-ended yellow/green bill. Small black patch at base. Dark lores. Flat profile to front of head with dark cap contrasting slightly with paler face patch. Large dark eye with pale eye-ring. Small white chin patch.

23 Rufous breast extending to back of neck. Upperparts mid-brown. Underparts uniform light brown. Undertail coverts white with tail held cocked most of the time. Compared with Little Grebes present it was a slightly larger bird, stockier, with thicker neck and different head and bill profile. Head was often held above 4S' shape, reminiscent of Coot. It was a strong swimmer but fairly nervous, keeping close to waterside vegetation.' DE.

LITTLE GREBE — Tachybaptus ruficollis

Scarce resident. Occasionally breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was proved only at where three young were seen by TK in May. Elsewhere two were noted at Colliford Res. May 16th and birds were present at Crowdy during the summer. At Stithians Res., where the species was formerly a regular breeder, two were observed Jul 25th, but these were thought to be returning autumn migrants. Mild weather in both winter periods ensured that the total number of birds reported was low.

Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 93 74 46 7 3 — 3 8 11 56 86 96 Regular reports and maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec St. Johns Lake 8 5 2 3 — — 1 — — 2 5 8 Lynher Est 9 4 1 13 6 Fowey Est 6 1 3 5 1 9 Par 5 5 5 2 3 1 10 4 1 — — — — 2 — 16 13 18 7 5 5 2 Swanpool — 1 2 5 6 7 Stithians Res 2 2 3 3 — — Helford Est 2 5 2 5 11 Loe Pool 2 2 5 5 — — Drift Res 1 2 1 3 1 — — — — 2 5 6 Hayle Est 15 9 9 4 11 Camel Est 11 13 66 1 4 11 10 Elsewhere there were reports of up to four at another 23 localities.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE — Podiceps cristatus

Rare resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred successfully at Lower Tamar Lake in 1930 but no further attempt made until 1985. The following table illustrates subsequent events: (figures represent number of young; n = nest unsuccessful; p = present but not known to have bred).

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 College Res n n Lower Tamar Lake 2 3 1 1 1 1 1 — Upper Tamar Res — — 1 1 1 — — — Crowdy Res P 3 — 2 — — — — Colliford Res 1 P With a steadily expanding British population other potential breeding sites should not be overlooked. The species was scarce in both winter periods. Spring passage was negligible but a few appeared briefly during October.

24 Approximate monthly county totals (away from breeding sites): Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 11 12 3 4 13 13 13 Lynher Est: noted until Apr 19th with max of ten January/February and from Oct 9th with max of twelve in December. St. Johns Lake: two Jan 4th and singles Feb 9th-23rd and Dec 13th. College Res: singles Jan 13th and Nov 13th. Tamar Est: singles Feb 15th and Oct 10th. Drift Res: singles Feb 23rd-Mar 15th and Nov 12th-Dec 28th. Rame Head: three Apr 5th. Stithians Res: two May 15th-18th and singles Oct 4th and Nov 30th. Helford Est: one Oct 6th/7th. Par: one Oct 11th. Siblyback Res: one Oct 13th. At breeding sites the maxima included five at Colliford Res. during January and nine at Tamar Lakes during October/November.

RED-NECKED GREBE — Podiceps grisegna Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. The majority are reported from the sheltered bays of the south coast between Par and Falmouth, but regular north coast sites include St. Ives Bay, Hayle Est. and Camel Est. Diligent observations over the last decade has proved that this species is considerably more common than previously thought. (See 'Birds in Cornwall 1987' pps. 122-125).

Less numerous than recent winters but a notable passage during the latter half of October. Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Nov Dec 9 4 2 1 11 1 9 Looe: one Jan 4th-17th, two Jan 18th/19th. SCM.SM. Veryan Bay: singles Jan 18th/19th and Sept 26th, two Oct 24th. JFB.PAM.CLBo.IK. Falmouth Bay: two Jan 18th and singles Feb 25th and Dec 30th. DE.TH.MT.JH. Gerrans Bay: three Jan 19th, one Feb 3rd. EJC.RJL.JFB.SMC. Hayle Est: singles Jan 21st-Feb 18th and Nov 27th-Dec 30th. DSF.JW.SK.RB et al. St. Austell Bay: one Feb 24th, two Mar 14th, one Oct 17th. DJO.DJ.RAJ. Loe Pool: one Oct 10th JSG. Camel Est: one Oct 14th JH. St. Ives: one Oct 14th/15th. MSS.MJW.RJF. Nanquidno: juvenile on farm pond Oct 15th. GJC.JFB.DEB. Drift Res: one Oct 16th-20th. MSS.MJW. et al. St. Johns Lake: one Oct 17th. SMC.MB.KAWP. and Dec 8th-10th. MA et al. Porthluney Cove: one Oct 24th PAM. Lynher Est: one Oct 30th DJ. Killigerran Head: three Dec 5th, one Dec 18th — all west PAM. Tamar Est: one Dec 10th PJR. Mounts Bay: one Dec 30th. JFR.

Other reports were received but lacked adequate description.

SLAVONIAN GREBE - Podiceps auritus

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Largest parties occur off the south coast between Par and Falmouth but smaller numbers regularly frequent several north coast sites, notably St. Ives Bay, Hayle Est. and Camel Est. Whilst the preceding species has become more numerous in recent years, the Slavonian Grebe has become progressively less obvious. This decline continued in 1992 with reports from only 13 localities, eleven on the south coast and two on the north coast. Despite

25 this there was an excellent single day count in Gerrans Bay in January. The last in spring were three in Gerrans Bay Apr 16th and the first return birds were two in St. Ives Bay Sept 22nd. Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 41 11 11 5 — — — — 2 4 10 16 Camel Est: noted to Mar 2nd with max of five Feb 10th and from Nov 8th with max of three Dec 19th into 1993. Looe: two Jan 4th with one to Feb 12th. One Dec 5th and two Dec 20th into 1993. Gerrans Bay: one Jan 5th-12th, 22 Jan 19th JFB, three Apr 16th, one Oct 17th and six Nov 15th. Carrick Roads: two Jan 11th. Seaton: noted to Apr 4th with max of seven Jan 18th and five Mar 26th and from Dec 12th with max of three Dec 31st. Lynher Est: singles Jan 19th and Oct 30th into 1993, two Nov 19th and Dec 24th. St. Austell Bay: three Jan 20th-Feb 1st, two Mar 14th and one Oct 24th-30th. Mounts Bay: two Feb 11th and one Dec 20th into 1993. Falmouth Bay: one Feb 28th, two Mar 2nd and up to four Dec 12th into 1993. Rame Head: singles Apr 5th-10th and Dec 12th into 1993. St. Ives: two Sep 22nd. Loe Pool: one Oct 13th. Penryn River: one Nov 13th.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE — Podiceps nigricollis

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. The rarest of the grebes in Cornwall, occurring like the others, mainly off the south coast between Par and Falmouth. More likely to be encountered on freshwater sites than Slavonian Grebe.

Carrick Roads: three from 1991 remained and were joined by two others Janl2th-Feb 1st. RAJ.SMC.EJC. et al. Three Dec 22nd into 1993. B. Helford Est: one from 1991 to Jan 22nd. LAHS. St. Austell Bay: one Sept 30th. GJC. Colliford Res: one Oct 31st. EJW. Stithians Res: one Dec 24th into 1993. DE.JH. et al.

An average year with the customary small flock at Carrick Roads. Other reports received lacked adequate documentation.

NORTHERN FULMAR — Fulmaris glacialis

Resident, but most leave British coastal waters to moult during September and October. Breeds. Passage migrant. First bred in Cornwall in 1944 and has subsequently colonised the entire coastline. Breeding success can best be gauged at the end of the summer when adults have left the breeding ledges to moult, leaving well grown young to fend for themselves. For a summary of recent breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987 (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 113-121) and Breeding Seabird Survey 1985 (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 124-145).

Breeding in 1992 was reported from the following sites: Fowey — two pairs; Bay; Portloe — 'small colony'; Nare Head — 'small colony'; St. Anthony Head — six pairs; Swanpool — five pairs; — two pairs; Cudden Point; Godrevy area, from Fishing Cove to — 68 nests with at least 43 young reared; Western Cove to Porthcadjack (may be some overlap with previous sites) — 140 nests; St. Agnes to Trevaunance Point — 20/30 pairs; — two pairs; Crantock (north) — ten chicks; Cove, Newquay — six chicks; Pentiresteps to — 45 occupied ledges with eggs or young in 15 (only 15/20 pairs in 1991); Trevose Head to Ranie Point

26 (some overlap with preceding site) — 269 nests; Ranie Point to Tresungers — 46 nests; Strangles to High Cliff — three pairs; Compass Point, Bude to Northcott Mouth — five pairs; Sandy mouth to Duckpool — seven pairs; Duckpool to Stanbury Mouth — three pairs.

As usual there was little movement during the first half of the year. Autumn passage was evident from mid-August to mid-September, there was the usual scatter of October records and returning birds from early November.

Maximum numbers: Rame Head: 293 east and 1287 west in 93 !/2 hours seawatching included 300 west Apr 17th. Newquay: 500 Jan 3rd, 510 Aug 30th and 192 Dec 3rd — all west. Portwrinkle: 150 west Mar 17th. St. Ives: 206 Apr 13th, 350 Apr 15th, 250 Aug 13th — all west. Looe: 300 west Aug 30th. Rumps Point: 190 west Nov 16th. A total of 23 was reported during October including five off Pendeen on 23rd and nine off Trevose Head on 28th. Inland there was a single at Drift Res. June 20th FP. Blue phase birds were reported as follows: Looe: one west Aug 9th. SCM.SM. St. Ives: one Aug 13th. B.

SOFT-PLUMAGED PETREL - Pterodroma mollis Exceptionally rare vagrant. 1989 record Porthgwarra: one Aug 12th, 13th and 14th. P.A. Flint, D.J.W. Walker, B.R. Field et al.

Accepted by BBRC and BOURC as new to Britain and and placed in Category 'A'.

CORY'S SHEARWATER — Calonectris diomedea Scarce passage migrant (mainly late July to early September) with occasional good years. Pre- 1959 data is very sketchy, although noted by Ryves (1948) as occurring around Wolf Rock. Since 1980, records have proved annual with regular reports from the main sea- watch points in the west of the county.

Porthgwarra: a total of 996 west between Jul 11th and Aug 28th. Only five were noted in July but August produced peak day counts of 76 on 2nd, 80 on 10th, 641 on 11th and 173 on 12th. PAM.JH.SGR. et al. Portwrinkle: a loose feeding group of seven keeping ahead of a storm coming in from the west Aug 11th. SCM. Pendeen: in August, three on 3rd, singles on 12th and 19th, two on 22nd. RJH.MPS. Rame Head: one Aug 12th. JMR. St. Ives: one Aug 20th. SGR.

Other reports lacked adequate description. The third best year to date — exceeded only by 2765 in 1980 and 1311 in 1990. The county mainland total advances to c.6311 since 1959.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 1 2 2 5 1603 4638 53 3 2 2 (25%) (73%) Top sites: Porthgwarra — 6103 (97%), RMV Scillonian — 59. St. Ives — 39, Lizard — 33, Pendeen — 30.

27 GREAT SHEARWATER — Puffinus gravis

Scarce passage migrant (mainly mid-August to late September) with occasional good years.

Rame Head: one Jul 19th. JD.ML-D.SCM.LACT. Porthgwarra: two Aug 2nd and singles 11th and 12th. SGR.JFB.RJH.EGG.GGG. et al. St. Ives: singles Aug 3rd, 12th and 30th. SGR. Mousehole: one Aug 28th. DIMW. Killigerran Head: one Aug 29th. PAM. Cape Cornwall: one Aug 30th. RB. Pendeen: one Sept 7th. JH. Other reports lacked adequate description. After the excesses of 1991 this proved to be the poorest year since 1986. The county mainland total advances to c.3692 since 1930, prior to which data is extremely sketchy. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 2 — 2 75 477 3034 100 2 — (82%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 2702 (73%), RMV Scillonian — 637, Pendeen — 141, St. Ives - 115.

Shearwater sp. Porthgwarra: two Jul 18th, five Aug 20th, one Aug 22nd. (all probable Cory's). B. Rame Head: one (probably Great) Sept 12th. EJW.

SOOTY SHEARWATER - Puffinus griseus

Passage migrant (mainly late June to early September).

St. Ives: 303 west between Jun 10th and Oct 25th. One in June, 125 in August, 174 in September, three in October with max of 20 Aug 28th, 72 Aug 30th, 73 Sept 3rd and 79 Sept 18th. Porthgwarra: 229 west between Jul 11th and Sept 13th. 19 in July, 188 in August and 22 in September with max of 30 Aug 11th and 74 Aug 29th. Rame Head: nine west between Jul 18th and Sept 6th. Pendeen: 334 west between Jul 21st and Oct 23rd. One in July, 163 in August, 81 in September and 89 in October with max of 76 Aug 28th, 60 Aug 30th, 33 Sept 18th and 81 Oct 3rd. Lands End: 12 west between Aug 9th and Oct 27th. Cape Cornwall: three Aug 12th. Treyarnon Bay: two Aug 16th. RMV Scillonian: five Aug 28th and five Sept 15th. Looe: one Aug 29th. Killigerran Head: 14 Aug 29th. Gurnards Head: five Aug 30th. Newquay: 20 Aug 30th, singles Aug 31st and Sept 2nd, two Sept 3rd. Park Head: two Aug 30th. Dodman Head: one Sept 10th. Rumps Point: seven Sept 11th, ten Sept 18th and two Sept 21st. Trevose Head: one Sept 22nd. The best year since 1988 and the third best ever.

The county mainland total advances to c. 14903 since 1937. Top sites: St. Ives — 6144 (41 %), Pendeen — 3992 (27%), Porthgwarra — 2755 (18%), Cape Cornwall — 451, Godrevy — 328, Newquay — 312.

28 — Puffinus puffinus

Passage migrant (mainly March to October). Feeding parties in summer, presumably from breeding colonies on the islands off the coast of South .

One off Pendeen Feb 5th constituted the sole report for the first winter period.

The first in spring were 16 off St. Ives Mar 21st with birds off Newquay, Bude and Lizard the following day. North coast passage was then regular until late October with heaviest movement in the gales of late August. Singles off Newquay Nov 2nd and 18th and Dec 3rd were the only records after October.

Regular counts and maximum numbers: St. Ives: 3384 in spring between Mar 21st and Apr 19th with max of 2051 Apr 13th. 18372 in autumn between Jul 12th and Oct 27th with max of 3000 Aug 12th, 4000 Aug 13th and 5000 Aug 30th. Cape Cornwall: 5000 Apr 8th, 2000 in two hours Jul 18th. Newquay: 1400 per hour Apr 27th, 908 Jul 17th. Rame Head: 32 east and 1291 west between April and September with max of 284 Aug 5th. Pendeen: 2000 May 9th and 6212 between Jul 11th and Oct 28th with max of 2900 Aug 31st. Bude: 1800 in V/i hours Jun 28th, 1000 per hour Jul 17th. Porthgwarra: 2392 between Jun 16th and Sept 13th with max of 1500 first date.

MEDITERRANEAN SHEARWATER - Puffinus yelkouan

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly late July to late October).

Porthgwarra: 122 between Jul 7th and Oct 7th. 14 in July, 99 in August, eight in September, one in October with max of 21 Aug 3rd, ten Aug 23rd and 21 Aug 29th. Rame Head: 33 between Jul 19th and Sept 19th. Eight in July, 18 in August seven in September with max of twelve Aug 5th. Killigerran Head: one Jul 26th, three Aug 22nd, three Aug 23rd and three Aug 29th. Pendeen: 111 between Aug 3rd and Oct 27th. 67 in August, 32 in September, twelve in October with max of 17 Aug 28th and 32 Aug 30th. Looe: nine Aug 12th. St. Ives: 67 between Aug 12th and Oct 27th. 38 in August, 22 in September, seven in October with max of 28 Aug 30th. Newquay: 21 between Aug 25th and Sept 3rd with max of nine Aug 30th. Cape Cornwall: two Aug 28th, one Aug 30th and one Oct 27th. Trevose Head: three Aug 30th, one Sept 13th. Gurnards Head: two Aug 30th. Rumps Point: three Sept 11th.

The year total of 386 is the second highest ever — exceeded only by 1263 in 1961, but undoubtedly includes considerable duplication of birds passing first one, then other sea- watch points. The county mainland total advances to c.4969 since 1958, prior to which data is incomplete. Top sites: St. Ives — 2531 (51%), Porthgwarra — 814, Lizard — 565, Pendeen — 319, RMV Scillonian — 216, Newquay — 149 and Rame Head — 114.

EUROPEAN STORM-PETREL - Hydrobates pelagicus (Formerly Storm Petrel or British Storm Petrel). Uncommon passage migrant. Small feeding parties in summer months (mainly north coast). Breeding has not been proved in the county since 1968 but may occur undetected on islands off the north coast. Exceptionally rare inland.

The first in spring were 20 off Rame Head Jun 20th — not since 1977 has there been an absence of May records.

29 Overall however, 1992 proved to be the best year for this species since 1986 with sea- watching for large shearwaters off Porthgwarra producing small parties almost daily and the late August/early September gales forcing many close inshore off the north coast.

Rame Head: 134 between Jun 20th and Aug 23rd with max of 62 Aug 12th. Porthgwarra: 1070 between Jul 15th and Sept 13th with max of 90 Aug 2nd, 74 Aug 3rd, 230 Aug 23rd and 100 Sept 2nd. Newquay: 45 between Jul 15th and Oct 23rd with max of 15 Aug 30th. RMV Scillonian: 41 Jul 26th. Pendeen: 358 between Aug 3rd and Sept 7th with max of 150 Aug 30th and 136 Sept 2nd. St. Ives: 479 between Aug 3rd and Oct 25th with max of 157 Aug 30th and 250 Sept 2nd. : two Aug 6th. Looe: two Aug 9th, one Aug 12th. Cape Cornwall: five Aug 12th, two Aug 30th.

LEACH'S STORM — PETREL — Oceanodroma leuccorhoa (Formerly Leach's Petrel)

Scarce passage migrant (mainly early September to late October and generally a little later than European Storm-petrel). Very rare inland.

An average year with the majority noted approximately four weeks earlier than normal. Porthgwarra: singles Aug 28th and Sept 2nd. DIMW.DT. Pendeen: four Aug 30th, one Sept 3rd, two Sept 7th, one Sept 11th and five Sept 18th. DSF.EJC.TD.RJL.RMRJ.JH. et al. St. Ives: nine Aug 30th, singles Sept 4th and 7th, three Sept 18th and one Oct 25th. SGR.ID.JR.KN.BTC.GRW.MW. et al. Newquay: three Aug 30th, singles Sept 2nd, 3rd and 7th and Oct 24th. TMC.SMC.JH.TH. PAM.MT. et al. RMV Scillonian: one Sept 15th. KP. The Porthgwarra birds were the first there since 1988 and the Scillonian birds the first seen close to the Cornish coast from the vessel since 1980.

The county mainland total advances to c.2068.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 3 — 1 3 2 4 — 27 1122 540 214 152 (54%)

Top sites: St. Ives — 1439 (70%), Newquay — 243, Pendeen — 113, Godrevy — 63, Bude — 48, Porthgwarra — 34.

NORTHERN GANNET - Sula bassana

Passage migrant. Bred on Gulland Island off until 1478 but the nearest current colony is on Grassholm Island, Pembrokeshire.

Grossly under-reported as always with particularly poor coverage during the first half of the year.

Concurrent with the excellent passage of other pelagic species there was a fair movement of Gannets on Aug 30th. Subsequent autumn passage was light until late October. Regular counts and maximum numbers: Rame Head: 1325 east and 6716 west in 98 Vi hours sea-watching during the year with max of 1047 Feb 22nd. Cape Cornwall: 600 Jan 26th, 1500 per hour Nov 23rd. Porthgwarra: surprisingly scarce on the late summer sea-watches with max of only 289 Jul 25th. 600 Oct 14th.

30 St. Ives: 12000 Aug 30th, 4034 in ten hours Oct 23rd, 840 Oct 25th. Pendeen: 'many thousands' Aug 30th, 1000 per hour Oct 23rd. Newquay: 1000 Aug 30th, 1150 Nov 7th.

As with most sea-bird passage, the majority of birds were moving west.

GREAT CORMORANT — Phalacrocorax carbo (Formerly Cormorant).

Resident. Breeds at a number of sites on both coasts. Occurs inland on all reservoirs and most other freshwater localities from time to time.

Breeding data was sparse with records from only four colonies.

The Quies, Trevose Head: one nest containing four young on innermost rock. CM. Gulland: at least 25 pairs Jun 8th. Most nests containing young ranging from newly hatched to well grown. Some nests still held eggs. CM. Hells Mouth: eight nests. (Seven in 1989), six in 1988, nine in 1987, four in 1986, six in 1985). RJP. The Greeb, : 'breeding'. JGT.

(For comparative detail see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987'. (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 113-121) and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey 1985' (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 125-145).

Monthly maxima at regular sites Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 34 39 52 46 33 44 52 105 51 63 85 93 Lynher Est. 8 20 5 18 8 9 12 24 15 9 16 22 Siblyback Res. 4 2 5 5 — — — 1 4 4 3 5 Colliford Res. 18 5 9 5 7 15 17 31 22 21 18 17 Truro River 8 4 8 4 — — 3 4 6 6 1 8 Devoran 3 — — 4 3 7 3 5 6 8 3 2 Helford Est. 5 6 5 3 9 2 4 4 — 6 12 11 Camel Est. 13 15 12 14 12 12 21 22 29 32 29 14

Elsewhere maxima included: Rame Head: a total of 84 east and 208 west between February and December. : eleven flew west Oct 11th. Tamar Lakes: seven Oct 22nd. Fowey Est: 12 Dec 27th. At Upper Tamar Res. a fungal infection which killed huge numbers of Bream provided a food bonanza for Great Cormorants, attracting a maximum of 16 Feb 12th. 14 were still regular until mid-March but by mid-April either most of the Bream had died or the infection had diminished because cormorant numbers had returned to the norm of five or so. FHCK.

SHAG — Phalacrocorax aristotelis

Resident. Breeds on both coasts. Passage migrant. Rare inland.

A welcome increase in breeding season data.

Bounds Cliff: two nests. ML. to Trevone: 19 nests counted from the sea. CM. Trevone Bay: four nests CM. The Quies, Trevose Head: at least ten nests on one rock. CM. Gulland Island: a conservative estimate of 80 pairs in June. CM. Minnows Island, Porthcothan Bay: two nests. CM. High Cove, Park Head: eight nests, each containing two or three young. (Only four nests here in 1991). CM.

31 Western Cove to Crane Island, : 16 nests. RJP. Derrick Cove to Navax Point: 25 nests. RJP. Knavocks Cliff: three young seen. PAR. Godrevy Island: 53 nests containing a total of 105 young. PAR. Bawden Rocks, Holywell Bay: 10/20 nests. CW. Trevaunance Point to St. Agnes: c.20 pairs. CW.

(For recent comparative data see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987'. (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 116-117) and Breeding Seabirds Survey 1985' (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 131-134). Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: a total of 289 east and 1380 west between Feb 22nd and Dec 31st with single day peaks of 65 May 23rd, 64 Jun 19th, 90 Jul 26th, 151 Aug 31st, 64 Sept 14th, 94 Sept 26th and 130 Oct 17th. EJW. 151 Aug 31st, 64 Sept 14th, 94 Sept 26th and 130 Oct 17th. EJW. Looe: 48 Jan 18th, 79 Oct 25th. St. Ives: 31 west Aug 30th. Newquay: 58 west Oct 23rd. Trevose Head: 38 west Sept 13th.

LITTLE BITTERN — Ixobrychus minutus

Rare vagrant (mainly spring). Porthgwarra: male May 25th/26th. RG.KM.

The first since 1988 and the 27th in total. Accepted by BBRC.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — 1 9 8 3 1 1 — — — — 4 Top sites: Falmouth/Swanpool — four, Skewjack and — two each.

SQUACCO HERON - Ardeola ralloides

Rare vagrant.

Towednack: one frequenting trout ponds May 13th-19th. MJR.DW et al. The 22nd county mainland record but the first since 1985 and only the fourth this century. Accepted by BBRC.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — — 4 11 1 6 Top sites: Lands End — four, St. Keverne — three, Penzance and Tamar Est. — two each.

LITTLE EGRET — Egretta garzetta Formerly a rare vagrant but now a rare passage migrant and winter visitor. A potential breeding species. Prior to 1989 there were only three instances of overwintering in Cornwall. Subsequently there has been a staggering increase in this behaviour with at least 26 remaining from 1991 into 1992 and at least 40 from 1992 into 1993.

However, apart from some re-distribution of birds there did not appear to be any new arrivals in the county until spring reports from Hayle Kimbro Pool and Loe Pool in mid- May. The last lingering birds were at Lynher Est. and Hayle Est. until May 24th and Jun 3rd respectively.

The first returning individuals were at Looe Jun 24th and Camel Est. Jun 25th but most

32 arrived in August. There was a slight reduction in October, possibly as a result of southward displacement caused by the persistent cold northerly airflow.

Approximate monthly county totals Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 26 27 25 18 7 3 11 28 34 27 30 40

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 3 1 1 — — — — 4 4 — — 2 St. Johns Lake 2 4 3 3 3 Lynher Est 4 5 4 2 2 — 2 3 9 9 9 18 Looe rivers 3 3 — — — 1 — — — — 1 — Fowey Est. 2 5 2 3 — — — 2 4 5 4 4 St. Just in Roseland 3 3 3 3 — — — 3 3 3 2 1 3 2 3 3 — — 1 8 8 4 3 1 Tresillian — — — 3 1 — — — 1 1 1 1 Devoran 1 — 1 1 1 /Helford 1 1 1 — — — — 1 1 2 1 1 Hayle Est. 4 4 3 2 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 Gannel Est. 1 1 3 2 1 — Camel Est. 1 2 3 2 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 Portnadler: one Jan 12th. JJ. Porth Joke: one Jan 12th. JS-S. : one Mar 1st. GHT. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one May 16th. ARP. Loe Pool: one May 23rd-25th. JSG. Stithians Res: singles Jul 2nd and Jul 30th to Aug 4th. JW.SMC.JH. Truro River: three Jul 27th and one Sept 14th. B. GW. Maer Lake: one Dec 31st. THo.GPS.

GREY HERON - Ardea cinerea

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Breeding was reported from the following heronries during 1992 (with comparative data for 1985-1991). Figures = number of occupied nests, p = present but not counted, nc = no count. 92 91 90 89 88 87 86 85 Shillingham, Lynher Est. 19 24 16 16 17 — — — Newbridge 5 nc 3 6 5 5 5 5 Trenant Point, Looe 9 7 9 11 13 6 8 9 St. Winnow, Fowey, Est. 8 6 8 13 13 14 10 nc Pelyn, 4 7 6 7 7 9 3 5 Pill Farm, Fal Est. 6 4 nc 6 5 — — — Kea Wood, Malpas 7 10 12 10 13 13 6 10 Borlase Wood, 5 4 4 5 9 6 5 6 , Helford Est. 13 12 11 10 11 11 7 3 + Marazion Marsh 3 2 3 4 6 + 7 6 6 Pinkson Creek, Camel Est. 14 18 14 16 14 17 16 15 Sladesbridge 4 2 2 3 4 4 3 4 Bear Wood, Glynn Valley (?) 6 i i new heronry?

The St. Just in Roseland heronry which was first noted in 1987 and which peaked at four nests in 1989 is now obsolete. Highest counts:

Tamar Est: 31 January, 37 October. St. Johns Lake: 23 January, 34 November. Camel Est: 14 Jan 20th, 26 Sept 17th.

33 Helford Est: 27 Feb 22nd. Malpas: 21 June. Lynher Est: 21 October and December. Probable migrants were reported as follows: Sennen: two Mar 17th, one Apr 2nd and a total of 13 between Jul 10th and Oct 19th — all flying over. Rumps Point: three west Sept 18th. Bosistow: one flew east at 2330hrs Oct 4th! Lands End: two flew in off the sea Oct 5th. Porthgwarra: one flew in off the sea Oct 6th.

Most unusual was one grounded by stormy weather, on a house roof at Lizard Oct 21st. SP.

PURPLE HERON — Ardea purpurea Vagrant (mainly spring). Marazion Marsh: sub-adult May 16th. DE.SGR. The 22nd county mainland record. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — 2 8 8 — — — 2 1 — — 1 Top sites: — three, Perranporth, Tamar Est. and Gunwalloe — two each.

WHITE STORK — Ciconia ciconia Vagrant. Plusha, near North Hill: one flew over Apr 23rd. DAC.

The county mainland total advances to 20.

MonthlJan y breakdownFeb Ma:r Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 4 3 5 2 — 1 3 1 1 — EURASIAN SPOONBILL — Plataka leucorodia

Rare passage migrant. Occasionally overwinters, particularly on the Lynher Estuary. Lynher Est: the adult and first winter birds remained from 1991, but the latter disappeared Jan 3rd. The adult lingered until Apr 5th. DC.SCM. RS et al. Presumably the same adult returned Oct 15th and remained into 1993. IMB et al. Hayle Est: one May 2nd. DSF.RJH. Maer Lake: one May 3rd. GPS. St. Johns Lake: the Lynher bird visited Oct 31st and Dec 8th/9th. SCM.EJW. The Hayle and Maer Lake records possibly relate to the same bird but are treated as different, thus the county mainland total stands at c.173 this century.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 7 6 10 17 14 12 3 1 17 42 34 10 Top sites: Ruan Lanihorne — 28, Tamar Est — 24, Camel Est — 22, Hayle Est — 21, Marazion - 19, Lynher Est - 13, Helford Est - 11.

MUTE SWAN - Cygnus olor Resident. Breeds. Moulting herds in autumn. Winter visitor. After a period of general decline during the 1970's and 1980's, there has been a distinct improvement over the last three years. It had been suggested that considerable mortality

34 was caused by ingestion of lead from discarded or lost fishermens' weights. It is interesting to note that the improvement in numbers has coincided with the decision to replace these items with non-toxic weights.

In 1992 successful breeding was reported from the following localities (with comparative data for the years 1986-1991).

Figures = number of young; n = nest, unsuccessful or success not known. More than one figure indicates more than one nest. 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1 Saltash 3 Forder 2 Trevol, Torpoint 8 Millbrook Lake 3 5 6 — — 8 7 Polbathic 4 4 St. Winnow 5/n 4 — — 6 — n 1/n Polridmouth 3 — — 4 — — — Par Beach Pool 3 3 8 2 5 8 4 Innis Fish Ponds 6 6 Ruan Lanihorne 4 — 5 5 3 7 — Swanpool 4 7 1 n n n n Froe Creek 6 n — — — — n Stithians Res. 2/n 4 7 5 6/5 5/n/n 4 Gweek 6 — — — 2 — — Loe Pool 5 — 6/4 5/n — — 4 Helston Lake 6 8 — 6 — 6 n Marazion Marsh 6 5 Long Rock Pool 6 6 2 — — — 4 Lake 6 Camel Est. 5/4/1 5/5/4 1 n 3 8 3/n/n Bude 5 — n 3 1 2 n Pairs were also present at West Looe River, East Looe River, and College Res. but success not known.

At Wacker Quay, Lynher Est. the nest failed whilst at Harlyn Bay no nest was built this year.

Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 140 157 141 75 100 95 78 136 151 201 189 175 Regular reports and maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 7 12 7 6 8 5 2 2 2 3 9 11 St. Johns Lake 18 10 12 19 8 9 19 19 11 17 20 18 Lynher Est. 5 8 11 13 7 13 11 11 10 10 11 11 Looe Est. 11 20 — 2 — — — 26 — 29 32 32 Fowey Est. 12 14 34 4 — 11 Devoran 4 9 12 2 24 8 10 7 8 24 10 7 Hayle Est. — 12 17 11 14 14 — 13 14 23 26 19 Camel Est. 25 25 10 12 14 19 21 24 28 26 28 34

Other peak counts included ten at Marazion in February, 14 at Falmouth in June, 24 at Loe Pool Aug 22nd and 14 at Par Nov 1st. There was never more than ten at any other site.

In autumn there was the usual scatter of 'fly-overs' including one at Porthgwarra Aug 23rd with eight flying south there Oct 13th. There was also two southwest over Lands End Sept 26th and two north there Sept 30th.

The peak count at Camel Est is the highest there for at least twenty years but conversely

35 the herd at St. Johns Lake in autumn/second winter has decreased quite dramatically since the 1970's. A review of five year average maxima at this site reveals the following:

1991/92 = 19 1986/90 = 22 1981/85 = 49 1976/80 = 58 1971/75 = 68 1966/70 = 58

TUNDRA SWAN — Cygnus columbianus (Formerly Bewick's Swan). Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Annual since 1959.

Near Cadgwith: four (two adults and two juveniles) Jan 18th-Feb 8th. RB.EGe.ARP. et al.

Drift Res: adult Oct 19th. NRP.SMC.MB. et al. Camel Est: adult Oct 26th. REW. : adult Nov 1st. LPW. All of the autumn records could have related to one individual.

The county mainland total advances to c.468 since 1930, prior to which data is incomplete.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 119 48 33 6 24 134 104

Top sites: Camel Est. — 63, Dozmary Pool — 59, Hayle Kimbro Pool — 56, Lower Tamar Lake - 46, Hayle Est. - 33.

WHOOPER SWAN - Cygnus cygnus

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Annual since 1971. College Res: seven from 1991 remained until Mar 7th. LAHS et al. Camel Est: one Jan 28th. ADD. Drift Res: two (adult and immature) Jan 28th. B. Adult Oct 18th. JFR. Hayle Est: adult Oct 16th/17th. JFB.DEB.ND.GHT. et al. Marazion Marsh: adult Oct 18th. DSF.DU. The county mainland total advances to c.438 since 1930, prior to which data is incomplete.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 90 21 14 1 — — — — 1 49 164 98 Top sites: Camel Est. — 75, Tamar Lakes — 45, Hayle Est. — 37, Marazion — 36, Loe Pool, Tamar Est. and Gwithian — 22 each.

BEAN GOOSE — Anser fabalis

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Sennen: two from 1991 were last noted Jan 8th. DSR.JFR. et al.

The county mainland total stands at c.20 since 1930, prior to which the species was apparently more regular (see Penhallurick 1969 and Rodd 1880). Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 13 3 3 1

36 PINK-FOOTED GOOSE — Anser brachyrhyncus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Camel Est: three (two adults and a juvenile) Oct 6th. SMC.PJO. They flew off east and were presumably the same birds seen later in Devon. The county mainland total advances to c.51.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4 3 - - 1 - - - 22 14 2 5

Top sites: Mawgan Porth — 20, Camel Est. — nine, Tamar Est. — five, Tamar Lakes — 3.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE - Anser albifrons

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Most Cornish records relate to birds of the Eurasian race 'Anser albifrons albifrons' but small numbers of the rare Greenland race 'Anser albifrons flavirostris' occasionally occur. The species was formerly more numerous in the county with a regular wintering flock at Walmsley Sanctuary from 1935 to 1973. The size of this flock peaked at an average of 146 birds between 1961 and 1965 (excluding a huge influx in 1963), but since 19/3 birds have wintered there with less regularity with none between 1982 and 1988 and again 1990/1991. Reasons for this decline are not fully understood but probably relate to ecological and botanical changes caused by the damming and straightening of the River Amble. This appears to have been compounded by persistent dredging of the river-bed and a lack of saltwater inundation.

Upper Tamar Res: immature Jan 21st. CLBo.IK. Camel Est: one Apr 22nd. ML. Drift Res: two adults Oct 18th. MSS.MJW. The poorest year since 1983. The Camel Est. bird is the second latest ever in spring.

GREYLAG GOOSE — Anser anser Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Many records undoubtedly refer to feral escapes and wanderers. Annual since 1973. Most reports refer to birds of the western race 'Anser anser anser' but the eastern race 'Anser anser rubirostris' also occurs occasionally.

Crowdy Res: two from 1991 to Apr 4th. SMC.EJC.ADD. et al. Upper Tamar Res: two from 1991 to Feb 10th. SMC.EJC.FHCK. et al. One Nov 3rd. FHCK. Lynher Est: one Nov 6th. SCM.

The county mainland total advances to c.123 since 1930.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 12 7 7 2 3 - 8 1 2 25 34 21 1 Top sites: Camel Est. — 47 (38%), Tamar Lakes — 11, Kynance — ten, Hayle Kimbro — five.

Grey goose sp. Hayle Est: one dark winged bird, thus Bean or White-fronted flew over Apr 25th. EGG.GGG. (The Camel Est. White-front record might be relevant).

37 BAR-HEADED GOOSE - Anser indicus

Feral escape. Upper Tamar Res: one Jan 6th. FHCK. Colliford Res: one May 16th-Jun 27th. SMC.BTSC. DRCh. et al. Bude: one May 24th. DU. Lynher Est: one Sept 13th-22nd. AB.SCM. One wonders how long it will be before this increasingly common escapee is admitted to Category 'D' of the British list?

CANADA GOOSE — Branta canadensis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Prior to 1983, apart from occasional migrants, the species was almost exclusively confined to the far south-east of the county. Between 1968 and 1975 there was an average of just one bird per annum and apart from a small influx in the arctic weather conditions of 1962/3, a total of only nine birds were recorded before 1968.

Away from the Lynher Estuary where a small feral population has existed for many years, breeding was first confirmed in 1983. Subsequently there has been a steady increase and it appears likely that the species' population could eventually reach plague-like proportions, as it has done in many other areas. Recent research has shown that the U.K. population has trebled since 1976. Despite this, it remains a scarce wanderer to the west of the county.

In 1992 breeding was reported from the following localities (with comparative data for 1985-1991). Figures represent number of young; B = bred, success not known; n = nest; p = present during breeding season:

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 Crowdy Res. 9 2 6 21 15 6 8 7 Fleardon Farm B 4 4 P 4 B 4 — Colliford Res. 9 2 p p 5 5 5 — Lynher Est. B B P 6 — — 4 — Sillaton Pond, Hatt 5 P Hepwell Bridge, P Hawkstor Clay Pit P Approximate monthly county maxima: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 481 356 115 95 129 434 449 518 352 305 418 465

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 2 45 2 2 4 — — 40 — — — 2 Lynher Est. 109 79 3 9 4 4 8 1 227 48 96 95 Colliford Res. 98 90 28 37 89 305 348 67 32 115 102 105 Crowdy Res. 45 142 71 35 16 81 93 132 8 31 — 87 Tamar Lakes 227 170 — 109 220 136 Maer Lake — — — — — — — 80 72 — — 45 Other good counts included 30 on the sea off Pentire Jun 9th, and 13 at Camel Est. Aug 18th-Sept 10th.

BARNACLE GOOSE — Branta leucopsis Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Feral escape. Upper Tamar Res: two from 1991 to Aug 25th, at least. SMC.EJC.FHCK. et al.

38 Helford Est: one Jan 22nd. LAHS. Camel Est: one Apr 3rd and 22nd. PJO.ML. St. Johns Lake: a tame bird Apr 4th and May 13th. RS.JFB. Newquay: one Apr 24th and May 2nd. SMC.TH. Mounts Bay: one Apr 25th and June 11th. JSG.JW. Hayle Est: one Apr 25th. DE. One Oct llth-18th. DJC.NLG.GHT et al. Gwithian: one May 4th. PAR. Harlyn Bay: one Jun 14th. ADC. et al. Maer Lake: one Sept 22nd. GPS. The poorest year since 1985 with most reports referring to three or four highly mobile feral birds. However the Helford, Maer Lake and second Hayle records may refer to wild birds. The county mainland total advances to c.222 (plus at least 35 feral individuals).

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 10 26 17 32 81 41 15 (36%)

Top sites: Tamar Est. — 30, Godrevy/Gwithian and Porthgwarra — 24, Camel Est. — 19, St. Ives - 13.

BRENT GOOSE — Branta bernicla

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Both dark-bellied (B. b. bernicla) and pale-bellied (B. b. hrota) races have been recorded in increased numbers in recent years, but Cornwall still does not attract a regular wintering flock. Only five overwintered from 1991 and very few new birds arrived in the first half of the year. One which toured the county during the summer months was unique, whilst six at Seaton Aug 8th were the earliest ever in autumn. Several good counts were made in September but then few to the end of the year.

ApproximatJan Febe monthlMar y Apcountr yMa totalsy :Ju n Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 11 8 1 1 1 1 1 6 88 15 9 16 Gannel Est: one from 1991 to Jan 26th. Camel Est: one from 1991 to Jan 10th, two Feb 3rd. Two Oct 14th-22nd, nine Nov 8th, four Dec lst-3rd, six to 9th and one 17th. Bude: one from 1991 to Jan 2nd. Hayle Est: one from 1991 to Jan 9th. Three Oct 9th, one Dec 12th-22nd, three Dec 30th. Ruan Lanihorne: one (hrota) Jan lst-Feb 8th, one (bernicla) Feb 24th and Mar 23rd/24th. One May 21st-Jun 7th. Bedruthan Steps: six grazing in cliff top field Jan 8th. Lynher Est: three Feb 7th and singles Oct 17th-30th and Dec 20th. Mounts Bay: one Feb 28th/29th. One Jul 9th-14th. 58 Sept 11th. PDR.MB. six Sep 12th and one dark Oct 13th/14th. Par: singles Jul 31st, Oct 11th, Oct 31st and Dec 17th into 1993 but three Oct 12th. Seaton: six Aug 8th. Falmouth: 18 Sept 11th. Dodman: twelve flew east Sept 19th. Portwrinkle: one Oct 3rd. Looe: one Oct 11th. Rame Head: two flew west Oct 17th. St. Johns Lake: two Dec 8th. St. Ives: one flew west Dec 21st. Carrick Roads: one Dec 22nd. Loe Pool: one Dec 26th.

39 EGYPTIAN GOOSE — Alopechen aegyptiacus

Rare visitor. Feral escape or wanderer. This Category 'C species occurs as a feral species in the U.K., mainly in East Anglia, but with small populations elsewhere, including East Devon. Camel Est: one from 1987 present throughout the year. Innis Fish Farm, : one from 1988 present throughout the year. Tamar Est: one Jun 14th and Nov 19th. JMC.B. A total of eleven was recorded in Cornwall between 1841 and 1878 but there was no further published information until 1981. There has been 14 since.

RUDDY SHELDUCK - Tadorna ferruginea

Vagrant, but the majority, if not all are presumed escapes from wildfowl collections or wanderers from feral populations in The Netherlands.

Crowdy Res: one Jul 13th-Aug 14th. BTC.AMJD. et al.

The county mainland total advances to c.19.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 1 - - 1 3 1 6 2 2 — 2 — 1 Top sites: Camel Est — seven, Upper Tamar Res. — three, Par, Ruan Lanihorne and Skewjack — two each.

COMMON SHELDUCK - Tadorna tadorna (Formerly Shelduck)

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Present on virtually all Cornish estuaries from November to July when, apart from a few juveniles, all birds leave to moult.

Breeding reports for 1992 were received from the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991).

Figures represent maximum number of duckling seen, b = brood.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Tamar Est. 16 22 11 18 — Lyner Est. 22 9 3b — — 9 17 Ruan Lanihorne 23 26 37 24 10 20 16 Truro River 36 — — — — 8 3 Tresillian 32 6 20 26 10 8 — Hayle Est. 12 8 + 34 18 30 20 23 Camel Est. 63 23 24 3 24 11 35 All of the main sites with the exception of St. Johns Lake and Truro River showed a small increase in numbers in January and peak counts in both winter periods were about the recent average.

Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1219 1256 925 883 642 443 286 88 58 157 489 1090

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 196 193 119 124 68 95 20 13 1 5 68 197 St. Johns Lake 255 208 115 138 28 39 14 6 5 2 47 230 Lynher Est 350 368 230 216 152 74 44 4 9 79 191 354 Ruan Lanihorne 16 15 76 74 87 123 123 18 3 8 11 39

40 Tresillian 73 50 64 67 65 30 25 10 19 23 20 45 Truro River 63 138 146 70 33 38 — — — 6 36 115 Devoran 20 1 2 9 2 7 — — — 2 1 22 Helford Est. 28 25 26 14 10 6 — — — — 3 12 Hayle Est 27 23 30 44 72 29 21 20 9 14 57 89 Camel Est. 186 179 74 76 83 — 39 11 5 16 54 52

The only other large parties were 40 at Fowey Est. in February and 23 at Godrevy May 16th.

There was the usual scatter of small parties at unusual localities in spring and autumn and three inland records (as follows): Siblyback Res: singles Jan 29th and Nov 3rd. Colfiford Res: two Jan 14th. Upper Tamar Res: juvenile Aug 9th.

MANDARIN DUCK - Aix galericulata

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Escapee. Feral release. A Category 'C species. The majority of Cornish birds probably relate to birds which derive from a small feral population in the Plym Estuary area of South Devon.

Lynher Est: female Jan 16th. EJW. : female Apr 10th-28th. DJ.SMC.RJL. Tamar Est: one Sept 13th. SM.

Pinioned birds at St. Johns Lake on several dates were escapees from a local wildfowl collection. SCM.GJC.

The county mainland total advances to c.47 — all since 1973..

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 3 1 6 3 — — 5 — 4 6 15 3 1 Top sites: Camel Est and Lynher Est — eight, Retallack — six, Fowey Est/Lerryn — five, Restronguet and Millbrook — four each.

EURASIAN WIGEON - Anas penelope (Formerly Wigeon)

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Occurs in very large numbers during cold weather.

Mild weather in both winter periods ensured that flocks remained unusually small. The last in spring was a female at Stithians Res. May 18th and the first in autumn was at Hayle Est Aug 25th. Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 2893 2665 760 27 1 — — 7 221 1661 2162 2364 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 124 67 10 14 72 42 Lynher Est. 630 345 100 5 — — — — 36 519 452 568 Colli ford Res. 140 149 78 3 39 114 54 Ruan Lanihorne 230 400 100 160 240 Stithians Res. 455 241 87 — 1 — — — 5 58 122 104 Hayle Est. 316 284 162 8 — — — 1 100 680 910 860 Camel Est. 326 360 110 6 — — — — 8 128 97 200 Maer Lake 293 320 205 2 — — — — 3 32 200 244

41 Elsewhere there were maxima of 59 at St. Johns Lake in January, 80 at Drift Res. Jan 14th, 70 at Upper Tamar Res. Jan 24th, 270 at Tresillian Feb 3rd, 55 at Gannel Est Feb 5th, 60 on fields at Towednack during February but no more than 50 at any other site in either winter period.

AMERICAN WIGEON — Anas americana

Rare vagrant. 1991 records

The Marazion and Loe Pool birds both accepted by BBRC.

GADWALL — Anas strepera Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although less numerous in mild winters the species has become more frequent at several localities over the last fifteen years. Top sites are Marazion Marsh, Loe Pool, Par Beach Pool and Upper Tamar Res. although Drift Res holds the record single day count. Mild weather in both winter periods ensured that numbers remained low at both ends of the year. Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 77 59 18 7 3 1 1 1 3 14 18 33 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 1 1 — — Par 5 6 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 5 5 7 Stithians Res. 3 — — — — — — — 2 — 2 — Hayle Kimbro Pool 21 24 — — Loe Pool 8 — — 3 — — — — — 3 5 15 Marazion/Long Rock 9 12 8 2 5 — Drift Res 13 12 6 — 2 Camel Est. 4 2 3 — —

Elsewhere in the first winter period there was up to eight at College Res. Jan 4th-18th, three at Res. Jan 24th, two at Tresillian Feb 13th-20th and two flew east at Rame Head May 14th.

In the second winter period there was one at Maer Lake Nov 6th, six at Poldhu Dec 4th, one at Lower Tamar Lake Dec 13th and two at Lynher Est Dec 27th.

COMMON TEAL — Anas crecca (Formerly Teal)

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeding has been confirmed only sporadically over the last twenty years. All records have emanated from Bodmin Moor with Crowdy Reservoir the most regular site. Excellent numbers were reported in January but almost half had moved on by the end of the month. Spring passage was negligible with the last at Loe Pool Jun 25th. The first return was at the same site Jul 30th. Very few arrived until October and end of year flocks were generally small.

Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 3028 1544 286 59 9 8 1 45 157 1019 978 1285 Regular reports and maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est. 94 55 2 15 16 116

42 St. Johns Lake 49 25 20 4 23 Lynher Est 500 410 40 4 — — 3 5 123 164 224 Colliford Res. 284 215 75 25 3 5 — 15 41 83 82 145 Truro River 72 79 3 6 26 6 57 Devoran 126 60 134 — Stithians Res. 248 27 30 5 2 1 1 3 — 19 54 25 Loe Pool 32 20 7 6 — 2 — 3 2 40 46 10 Marazion Marsh 11 11 8 4 — 1 — _ 7 28 100 Drift Res. 50 54 11 Hayle Est. 345 190 2 — — 1 25 155 200 240 Camel Est 250 54 70 — — — — 1 3 22 7 20 Crowdy Res. 86 34 3 3 1 — — 19 — 15 30 38 Maer Lake 421 225 23 15 3 — — — 41 125 61 110 Upper Tamar Res. 300 50 14 42 17 Elsewhere there were maxima of 72 at Crowan Res. Jan 24th, 50 at Poldhu Mar 2nd, 75 at Skewjack Oct 13th and 180 at Siblyback Res Oct 30th but no more than fifty together at any other time.

Breeding was not confirmed anywhere this year although up to five birds were present at Colliford Res. during the summer, a drake was at Crowdy Res May 12th and two were at Loe Pool Jun 20th-25th.

GREEN-WINGED TEAL — Anas crecca carolinensis

Annual vagrant. The North American race of Common Teal. Stithians Res: drake Jan 12th-18th. FHH.DRC et al.

The county mainland total advances to c.36 — all since 1962.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 6 4 3 2 1 — — — — 7 5 8 Top sites: Hayle Est — nine, Stithians Res — six, Marazion — four, Lynher Est — three.

MALLARD — Anas platyrhyncos Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Feral release for wildfowling purposes at a number of sites. Breeding was reported from the following localities during 1992: Tamar Lake (ten duckling), Bridge (ten), Walmsley Sanctuary (seven), Crowdy Res, Trenance Lake (ten), Colliford Res (four), River (16), Swanpool (14 + 11), Froe Creek (seven), Tregellast, St. Keverne (five), Tresillian (four), Marazion Marsh (82 from ten broods), Gwithian (eleven).

Average numbers were counted in the first winter period but there was little immigration in the second winter with many counts up to xh down on recent averages.

Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1627 910 320 187 182 282 333 970 1195 1187 1190 1236

Regular reports and maximum numbers Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 232 98 29 35 39 47 52 109 182 95 86 137 St. Johns Lake 53 32 20 35 40 36 51 25 56 49 59 42 Lynher Est 323 297 30 38 41 53 84 139 203 194 207 138 Colliford Res 107 38 15 8 31 57 20 14 159 150 98 59 Par 98 56 50 116 96 84 82 Tresillian 34 38 10 5 6 34 7 7 11 64 — — Ruan Lanihorne 130 10 12 6 9 15 20 96 16 20 39 60

43 Swanpool 62 40 24 55 51 60 61 Loe Pool 50 22 9 48 52 29 21 Camel Est 53 31 — 14 — — 56 60 44 63 56 43 Crowdy Res 36 4 6 86 52 91 65 — Tamar Lakes 86 22 — 7 — — — 85 — 102 — 98 Elsewhere, maxima included 80 at Looe Jan 1st, 128 at Porth Res Aug 9th, 90 at Hayle Kimbro Aug 30th, 64 at Tresillian Oct 15th, 90 at Tregathenan Res Oct 22nd, 54 at Porth Mear Nov 4th, 70 at Fowey Est in December and 80 on flooded meadows at Mawgan Porth Nov 27th increasing to 175 Dec 2nd.

GARGANEY — Anas querquedula

Scarce passage migrant with numbers fluctuating from year to year. Has bred on at least six occasions, including three successive years 1981/3. Bude Marshes: pair Mar 24th. FHCK. Stithians Res: two drakes Apr 24th and a pair May 3rd. DE.JW. One Aug 4th-l4th. JH.DC.FHH. Mawgan Porth: drake May 13th. REW. Skewjack: drake May 14th. DSF. Marazion: two drakes May 28th-31st, one to Jun 4th. EJC.DSF.BP. et al. Walmsley Sanctuary/Camel Est: female Jul lOth-Aug 2nd. ACH.BCW.REW.DU et al. Lynher Est: one Sept 12th. EJW. Maer Lake: two juveniles Sept 15th-20th. GPS.FHCK. Hayle Est: fem/imm. Oct 6th - 10th. DJC.EGG.GGG.NGL. et al. The county mainland total advances to c.653 since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 2 234 169 68 11 31 95 28 12 1 2 (36%)

Top sites: Marazion — 250 (38%), Stithians Res — 71, Par — 38, Hayle Est — 36, Tamar Lakes — 24.

BLUE-WINGED TEAL - Anas discors

Rare vagrant. Tamar Lakes: three (two drakes) Jan 11th and then intermittently until Apr 13th. SMC.EJC.JH. et al. On Mar 31st both drakes were displaying to the female. All accepted by BBRC. This unique trio takes the county mainland total to 26 — all since 1976.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 3 — — — 2 — — 3 14 4 — — (54%) Top sites: Tamar Lakes — eight, Stithians Res — four, Marazion — three.

NORTHERN SHOVELER - Anas clypeata

Winter visitor. Scarce passage migrant. A small influx was apparent during January but most stayed only briefly. Numbers diminished throughout February and March with the last at Maer Lake Apr 9th. The first returning birds were at Crowdy Res Aug 14th and Loe Pool Aug 15th. As in 1991 numbers remained low until December. Approximate monthly county maxima: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 137 71 28 8 — — — 2 5 14 31 70

44 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 4 3 5 Lynher Est 2 9 2 — 1 1 Stithians Res 1 6 — Loe Pool 2 9 — — — — — 1 — 3 — 9 Marazion Marsh 20 20 10 6 3 3 7 Drift Res 6 4 7 Hayle Est 4 4 13 — Camel Est 16 17 4 2 — 6 Harlyn Bay Ponds 12 3 Crowdy Res 3 — — — — — — 1 — 3 — — Maer Lake 7 2 3 2 — — — — 3 3 5 11

Elsewhere: Hayle Kimbro Pool: 25 Jan 10th. Bay: eleven Jan 26th. Helston Park Lake: 13 Dec 26th. Other site max included five at Goonhilly, four at Argal Res and Polzeath, three at Colliford Res and Dozmary Pool, two at Upper Tamar Res., Mawgan Porth, College Res. and Seaton and one at Truro River in the first winter and four at Poldhu, three at Dozmary Pool, two at Ruan Lanihorne and one at Skewjack in the second winter period.

RED-CRESTED POCHARD - Netta ruflna

Vagrant. Feral escape. Hayle Est: female Aug 1st. SBE.

Presumably one of the two females which have frequented the nearby Garden Centre for many years.

COMMON POCHARD - Aythya ferina (Formerly Pochard)

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Probably bred at Crowdy Reservoir in 1977. Apart from good counts at Loe Pool, both first and second winter flocks were exceptionally small. A pair again summered at St. Andrews Pool, Par and there were three at Loe Pool and singles at Dozmary Pool and College Res in June. The first return birds in autumn were 14 at Loe Pool, Jul 25th. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 440 378 106 6 6 6 17 38 88 167 261 254

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 66 60 5 4 Siblyback Res 52 58 19 7 28 48 48 Par 9 12 5 2 6 2 2 2 2 8 8 21 Loe Pool 175 120 23 4 3 3 14 15 38 81 120 111 Dozmary Pool 20 14 13 1 1 1 — 2 30 16 1 11 Colliford Res 20 23 3 — — 1 1 18 10 3 17 25 Apart from 28 at Swanpool Mar 15th there was no more than 20 at any other site in either winter period.

The wintering flock at Upper Tamar Res. has reduced by up to 80% over the last five years and the peak count at Colliford Res has collapsed from an average of 150 birds in the mid 1980's. The proximity of the huge new reservoir at Roadford, Devon may have some relevance.

45 At Porth Res, where there was an average of 50 birds per winter in the 1970's and 1980's, there was not a single record this year. The introduction of coarse fishing with its associated disturbance and competition between fish and diving ducks for food is thought to be the cause of this disaster.

RING-NECKED DUCK - Aythya collaris

Annual vagrant. Drift Res: drake from 1991 noted almost daily until Mar 4th. Presumed same returned Oct 14th and stayed into 1993. FP.JFR. et al. Long Rock Pool: same bird Feb 14th-18th. RB.DSF.RJH. Loe Pool: same bird Feb 14th, Mar lst-Sept 4th, Nov 22nd and Dec 8th-10th. JFR.JSG. et al. Stithians Res: same bird Sept 19th. RB.SMC.KN. et al. Bussow Res: same bird Oct 13th/14th. JFB.MSS.MJW. The first year since 1984 lacking a new bird. Other reports received lacked descriptions. The county mainland total remains at 36 — all since 1976.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 11 2 — 1 — — — — 4 9 5 4 Top sites: Stithians Res — eleven, Drift Res — six, Tamar Est and Loe Pool — four each.

TUFTED DUCK - Aythya fuligula

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. Breeding season reports were received from the following localities during 1992 (with comparative data for 1986-1991). B = breeding confirmed; p = present, success not known.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Dozmary Pool P Colliford Res P P P P P B P Crowdy Res P P P P P B B Loe Pool P — P — — — — Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 361 313 194 78 28 16 8 110 105 197 253 238 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Colliford Res 14 6 8 8 8 8 — 23 10 3 — — Dozmary Pool 21 24 20 14 3 2 6 1 17 1 10 8 Siblyback Res 27 25 10 14 — — — — 17 25 27 22 College Res 15 13 7 — — — — — — 28 — — Argal Res 28 46 29 5 32 54 C rowan Res 15 18 15 6 8 10 11 Stithians Res 11 15 — — 7 — 2 — 18 10 27 20 Swanpool 65 60 24 1 — — — — 1 40 48 51 Loe Pool 100 45 36 30 5 9 — 85 32 46 64 49 Drift Res 29 32 16 — — — — 1 — 2 6 11 There was no more than twelve at any other site. Like Common Pochard there has been a reduction in the number of birds wintering in the county in recent years. Most site totals held up well during 1992, but at Porth Reservoir, where the average mid-winter flock in the 1980's was 40 + , there was not a single report this year.

46 Unusual were a female at Carnsew Pool Jan 30th and two males flying west at Rumps Point Oct 2nd.

GREATER SCAUP - Aythya marila (Formerly Scaup). Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. A largely uneventful year for this species with only 18 in the first winter and spring period and eight in autumn and the second winter period.

Approximate monthly county totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 13 5 3 3 4 — — — — 2 2 5 Drift Res: five overwintered from 1991 and remained to Jan 23rd. A sixth bird was present Jan 18th. FP.JFR. et al. Tamar Est: three overwintered from 1991 and remained until Feb 23rd, with one staying to May 10th. PE.ME. et al. Loe Pool: drake from 1991 remained until May 13th with another drake and a duck from May lst-13th. MJR.JSG et al. Hayle Est: female Jan 20th-31st. DSF.ACS. et al. Marazion: two (one drake) Jan 29th, duck to Feb 18th. DSF.BP. et al. Par: female Mar 5th/6th, four females Dec 24th. DJ.AIP. Lynher Est: female Apr 26th. SCM. Camel Est: female May 10th-23rd. PAM et al. St. Johns Lake: tame female Oct 1st, another female Nov 13th into 1993. SCM et al. Penzance Harbour: female Oct 18th. ND. Stithians Res: female Nov 2nd-14th. REW.DE.

COMMON EIDER — Somateria mollissima

Uncommon pasage migrant and winter visitor. A few summer. There are only eight documented records pre-1900 and only eight years between 1931 and 1951 with sightings. However, since 1952 the species has proved annual.

The first winter period was the poorest since 1973 with only seven birds reported. Observations in autumn and the second winter period were equally sparse. Approximate monthly county totals: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 7 1 1 4 2 6

Godrevy: immature drake Jan lst-Mar 2nd. PAR. Bude: drake Jan 11th and three (one drake) flew north Oct 4th. GPS.FHCK. Carrick Roads: three drakes Jan 13th, pair Jan 17th and a female Dec 20th into 1993. SMC.LSP.EMP.JH. Par: drake Jan 16th, female Dec 20th into 1993. DJ.GHT. et al. Camel Est: immature drake Oct 24th-30th. SMC.PS. et al. St. Johns Lake: two drakes Nov 1st. RWG. Polridmouth: female Dec 12th. LAS.FMS. Mounts Bay: two immature drakes Dec 13th into 1993. JW.JH. et al. Whitsand Bay: immature drake Dec 31st. SCM. Seaton: female Dec 31st. DC.

LONG-TAILED DUCK - Clangula hyemalis

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year.

After the excellent influx late in 1991, the 16 noted in December all overwintered and with the exception of the Siblyback bird, which apparently moved to Colliford, all remained faithful to their chosen sites. Most stayed for several weeks although the Colliford and Hawkstor birds certainly wandered between the two localities.

47 Conversely there was a mere three in autumn and the second winter period.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 16 13 11 9 1 - - - - 1 - 2

Colliford Res: two females from 1991 were joined by another female Jan 1st. Three including a drake were present Jan 18th-Feb 27th. All four birds together Mar 8th. GDL.DC.SCM.EJW. et al. Hawkstor Clay Pit: one from 1991 was joined by a drake Jan 14th-19th. Five (one drake) Apr 8th. SMC. et al. Gerrans Bay: one from 1991 to Jan 19th. One Apr. 19th. PHA.JFB.ACS.PAM. et al. Loe Pool: three from 1991 to Jan 5th with a drake until May 22nd. JSG.MR.REW. et al. Stithians Res: one from 1991 to Feb 9th. DRC.DE. et al. Newquay: two from 1991 to Apr 6th with one to Apr 26th. SMC.MT.TH. et al. Harlyn Bay: four from 1991 to Feb 24th with two to Mar 4th and one to Mar 29th. TMC.RAJ.PGJ. et al. West Pentire: drake Jan 22nd (presumed one of the Newquay birds). SMC.EMC. Par: one Feb 2nd. GR. Copperhouse: one Feb 23rd-Mar 24th. JW.LPW. et al. Camel Est: one Mar 24th-Apr 5th. ML.PAM. et al. Porthluney Cove: one Oct 24th. PAM. Sennen: two Dec 12th into 1993. JML.DSF. et al.

The county mainland total advances to c.394 since 1930. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 51 31 45 14 4 3 1 1 1 46 102 95

Top sites: Sennen — 82, Mounts Bay — 59, Loe Pool — 27, St. Ives — 22.

COMMON SCOTER - Melanitta nigra.

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A few summer. Small numbers may be encountered almost anywhere around the Cornish coast but larger parties often congregate in Whitsand Bay, St. Austell Bay, Veryan Bay, Gerrans Bay and Mounts Bay. Small parties overwintered from 1991 and there was the customary light spring passage from early April to late May. Summer movements were evident off the south coast from early June with particularly notable passage off Rame Head. Autumn passage was protracted, with regular counts into November, but the end of year total was dismal.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 165 76 28 75 437 718 377 157 698 360 39 8 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Whitsand Bay 41 10 9 - 49 60 28 — 13 7 5 3 Rame Head — — — 54 291 608 116 20 21 33 — — Portwrinkle 4 — — 3 60 2 1 4 — 1 — — Looe 12 — — — — — 100 3 4 1 - St. Austell Bay 12 9 8 1 14 — — 3 — 21 1 - Gerrans Bay 19 19 — 3 - — — — 1 — — — Mounts Bay 15 4 — - 2 6 38 9 — 5 4 1 Porthgwarra — — — — — 19 70 47 — 29 — — Pendeen — 79 122 164 2 - St. Ives — 2 398 56 — —

48 Newquay 28 20 11 3 13 1 Bude — — — 3 1 12 2 — 2 — — — The single day maxima at these sites included the following:

Rame Head: 180 May 13th, 113 Jun 20th, 134 Jun 28th, 150 Jun 29th. Port wrinkle: 50 May 29th. Whitsand Bay: 60 June. Looe: 100 Jul 17th. Mounts Bay: 38 Jul 25th. Porthgwarra: 33 Jul 25th. St. Ives: 100 Sept 2nd, 170 Sept 18th, 96 Sept 22nd. Pendeen: 96 Sept 22nd, 56 Oct 3rd, 105 Oct 26th. Other large counts: Loe Bar: 20 May 25th. Killigerran Head: 20 Jul 19th. Rumps Point: 35 Sept 18th. Trevose Head: 45 Sept 23rd. Dodman: 30 west Sept 26th. Gurnards Head: 21 Oct 3rd.

Less than twenty were reported from another 15 localities.

VELVET SCOTER - Melanitta fusca

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Three overwintered from 1991 and six arrived during January to March but only two were observed in autumn and none in the second winter period. Tamar Est: one from 1991 to Feb 22nd. DC.GDL.PE.ME. et al. Whitsand Bay: one from 1991 to Mar 3rd. DC.GDL.ME.PE. et al. Female Nov 8th-14th. EJW. Carrick Roads: one from 1991 to Jan 19th. JH et al. Polurrian: drake Jan 7th. RB.ARP. Lynher Est: drake Feb 5th. GJC. Newquay: three Feb 19th-28th, four Mar 1st-17th, then decreasing to three Mar 18th and two Apr 12th-16th. SMC. EMC .JH. et al. Bay: one Nov 6th. LWT. The county mainland total advances to c.377 since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 45 77 24 12 2 — — 1 2 40 102 72 The Cawsand bird was the first there since 1956 and the Lynher bird the first there since 1986. Top sites: St. Ives — 81, Falmouth/Carrick Roads — 42, Mounts Bay — 36, Rumps Point - 26.

COMMON GOLDENEYE - Bucephala clangula (Formerly Goldeneye)

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Small numbers appear on all of the county's estuaries and reservoirs at one time or another. The number of birds visiting the county has declined in recent years with the most noticeable reduction at Carrick Roads where there has been a 60% diminution.

With generally mild weather prevailing in both winter periods of 1992 numbers were again low. Apart from Camel Est and Stithians Res, where recent averages were maintained, and Argal Res which supported its' largest flock since 1979, numbers were universally down.

49 The last in spring were three at Hawkstor Clay Pit Apr 8th — the earliest departure since 1975. The first return bird was a juvenile at Camel Est Aug 8th-16th. SMC.DU. et al. — the earliest ever by four weeks! This was followed by one at Stithians Res on the more typical date of Oct 15th.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 75 62 30 23 — — — 1 — 6 26 54 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul ,Au g Sep Oct Nov Dec Dozmary Pool 4 2 3 2 1 Colliford Res 5 8 5 2 2 4 Carrick Roads 14 13 3 8 Stithians Res 12 13 8 8 2 5 16 Argal Res — — 2 — — — — — — — 2 7 Loe Pool 5 1 4 Drift Res 5 3 3 3 1 Hayle Est 7 7 1 2 2 5 Camel Est 16 12 5 4 — — — 1 — 1 3 6

No more than four was reported from any other locality.

SMEW — Mergus albellus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Siblyback Res: single redheads Oct 31st. EJW and Dec 31st. RSt.JS.

The first bird is the second earliest ever in autumn.

The county mainland total advances to c.298 since 1930.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 138 92 20 2 1 — — — — 2 11 32 (46%) (31%)

Top sites: Siblyback Res — 78, Camel Est — 30, Colliford Res — 28, Tamar Est — 26, Tamar Lakes, Loe Pool and Marazion — 13 each.

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER — Mergus serrator Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. Rare inland. Approximately 60% of the county total is recorded annually at Carrick Roads where birds gather to roost offTurnaware Point and Loe Beach. At dawn they disperse to feed throughout the Fal Estuary complex. Numbers at both ends of 1992 were the lowest since 1985, with only Carrick Roads and St. Johns Lake/Lynher Est attracting double-figure flocks. The last in spring were two brownheads at Camel Est. May 25th. The first in autumn was a brownhead at the same locality Oct 1st.

Approximate monthly county total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 55 61 35 2 2 — — — — 4 55 53 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec St. Johns Lake 3 2 6 14 Lynher Est 9 8 8 2 2 14 Carrick Roads 30 35 12 36 27

50 Penryn River 8 7 8 6 8 Camel Est 1 4 — — 2 — — — — 1 1 — Other max included five at Ruan Lanihorne Mar 24th, three west at Killigerran Head Nov 14th with two west there Nov 18th. One or two were also noted at Tamar Est., Seaton, Tresillian, Devoran, Mounts Bay, Hayle Est and Trevose Head. Most unusual was one inland at Colliford Res. Feb 8th.

GOOSANDER — Mergus merganser

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. A potential breeding species. Small parties were observed at the usual moorland sites in both winter periods but few were noted elsewhere. Last in spring was a drake at Upper Tamar Res Mar 31st and the first return birds were three juveniles at Crowdy Res. This is the earliest ever autumn record and raises speculation as to whether or not they were locally bred. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 21 21 7 — — — — 3 — 4 11 24 Argal Res: noted until Mar 10th and from Nov 14th with max of five Feb 9th and Nov 14th. Four remained into 1993. SMC.DE.JH.LAHS.GHT. et al. Crowdy Res: noted until Feb 28th and from Aug 22nd with max of eight Jan 12th and four Oct 24th and Dec 12th. DRCh.BTC.ADD.FHCK. et al. Hayle Est: brownhead Jan lst-3rd, drake Jan 2nd-Mar 6th, brownhead Dec 3rd-30th, drake Dec 8th-10th. RB.DSF.RAJ.JW. et al. Tresillian: drake Jan 16th. CLB.PT. Ruan Lanihorne: drake Jan 18th. GCJ. Caerhays: brownhead Jan 19th. JFB. Drift Res: pair Jan 20th-Mar 28th, up to three Dec lst-11th but four Dec 5th. FP.JFR. et al. Tamar Lakes: brownhead Jan 26th-Feb 21st, drakes Mar 31st and Dec 27th. JH.FHCK.RAJ. et al. Colliford Res: brownhead Feb 8th. RS. Siblyback Res: noted Feb 22nd-Mar 29th and from Nov 19th into 1993 with max of five Feb 22nd and six Dec 1st. RSt.JS.PJO.JMR.EJW. Stithians Res: brownhead Nov 28th, three brownheads Dec 30th. JSG. The Crowdy/Colliford/Siblyback and Argal/Stithians observations presumably relate to the same groups of birds. The county mainland total advances to c.832. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 375 81 60 15 3 — — 3 — 17 98 180 (45%)

Top sites: Crowdy Res — 105, Siblyback Res — 78, Camel Est — 61, Drift Res — 60, Hayle Est — 52, Argal Res — 51.

Goosanders John Walters

51 RUDDY DUCK — Oxyura jamaicensis Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1977. Loe Pool: female Jan llth-Feb 15th. JSG.SK. Lynher "Est: three females Jan 19th. DC.GDL.SCM.RAJ.

Assuming that Pool bird was the same as the Nov/Dec 1991 bird the county mainland total advances to c.94.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 38 18 2 — — — 1 — 3 14 17 1 (40%) Top sites: Loe Pool — 23, Stithians Res — 22, Drift Res — seven, Siblyback Res — six, Marazion — five.

HONEY-BUZZARD — Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant. Breeding has occurred annually in Devon since 1979 and could conceivably occur in Cornwall in the near future. Cape Cornwall/: one flew over May 22nd. RJH.MPS. Hayle Est: one May 30th. JFR. Stithians Res: one flew south Jul 27th. PAM. Treveal: one Oct 11th. EGG.GGG. Other reports received lacked supporting detail. The county mainland total advances to c.77 — all but nine since 1972. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — — 6 16 4 4 5 17 19 — 1 5 Top sites: Hayle Est — nine, Rame Head — seven, Porthgwarra/St. Levan — six.

BLACK KITE — Milvus migrans

Rare vagrant. 1991 records The St. Columb Minor, Hayle Est. and Marazion birds accepted by BBRC. The St. Johns Lake record was rejected by BBRC.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 1 3 — — — 1 2 — —

RED KITE — Milvus milvus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. There are various ancient claims of breeding in Cornwall but none is considered fully authentic. Rumours persist of birds occasionally summering in apparently suitable breeding habitat within Cornwall and the possibility of successful nesting snould not be overlooked

Rilla Mill: one Mar 14th-18th. UH. Kynance: one Sept 12th. SP. : one Sept 26th. KS.

The county mainland total advances to c.81 since 1952 prior to which data is incomplete.

52 Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 8 4 11 6 5 2 4 1 7 20 7 6

Top sites: Porthgwarra — eight, Nanquidno, Siblyback Res and Lizard — three each. With 51 other localities having one or two records this is clearly a species which can turn up anywhere at any time of the year.

MARSH HARRIER — Circus aeruginosus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Camel Est: one Feb 2nd and Apr 8th. ARP.ACH.BCW.RAJ.PW. Skewjack: female May 14th. DSF. Gunwalloe: female May 15th. ARP. Sennen: one Sept 18th. DSF. Several other reports received lacked accompanying description.

1990 record Colliford Res: immature male Dec 16th. GJC. Presumed same as November bird. Assuming that the Camel Est. birds were different the county mainland total advances to c.98 since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 3 2 12 13 21 2 1 4 17 15 4 4 Top sites: Marazion — 23, Porthgwarra, Sennen/Skewjack and Gunwalloe — seven each.

HEN HARRIER — Circus cyaneus

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. There are four main wintering areas in the county. On the mid-Cornwall moors and the Penwith moors the roost sites are well documented but peninsula and Bodmin Moor roost sites have received less attention. Bodmin Moor: All 1992 records derived from Colliford Res. and its environs. An overwintering ringtail was noted Jan 11th and 19th but there was none in spring or autumn. A wing-tagged ringtail was observed Nov 20th and a non-wing-tagged ringtail was seen Dec 5th. A female, possibly the latter bird was reported Dec 24th and 28th. Mid-Cornwall moors: Four males and a female overwintered from 1991 and were regularly watched going to roost at Tregonetha. Another female joined the roost Jan 20th-Feb 12th and a fifth male was present Feb 16th. The roost gradually diminished through March with the last two males staying until Apr 1st. Birds presumably associated with this roost were noted at Ninemaidens Mar 1st, St. Columb Road Mar 5th, Mar 7th and St. Eval Mar 8th. At the last location there was a female Apr 10th. None was reported in autumn and the first returning bird was a male Dec 9th. Additional males joined the roost Dec 10th, 20th and 29th with all four staying into 1993. A male was also at Gummows Shop, Dec 18th. West Penwith moors: The male noted during December 1991 apparently overwintered and was one of three birds which roosted near Ding Dong Jan 11th. Subsequently single birds were reported from Zennor Jan 17th, Common Jan 18th, Jan 21st-Feb 3rd and Sennen Jan 30th. A male which flew over Trevail Mar 29th was presumably a spring migrant. Autumn passage commenced with a male at Nanquidno Oct 11th and a ringtail at Cot the same day. Ringtails were also reported from Bussow Res. and Nanquidno Oct 14th and 17th respectively whilst a male was at the latter site Oct 21st. One, and later two males were observed at various localities during November and a ringtail was at Cam Galver Nov 23rd.

53 In December there was a male at Lamorna on 13th, a male at Ding Dong on 23rd and single ringtails at Eagles Nest on 27th and Zennor on 29th/30th. Lizard peninsula: A male wing-tagged either in East Rosshire or S.E. Sutherland in 1991 (per GJC), overwintered from 1991 and was noted at Predannack Jan 18th and 25th. Additionally, a female was at Goonhilly Jan 12th and a male was at Kennack Sands Feb 7th. Another wing-tagged male was at Goonhilly May 3rd. This bird had also been ringed (as a chick) in summer 1991 in either East Rosshire or S.E. Sutherland. A female at Goonhilly Oct 19th was the sole report for the second half of the year.

Elsewhere: A female was seen on four occasions at Camel Est between Jan 17th and Feb 28th, a male regularly hunted a kale field at St. Endellion during February, a male was at Drift May 12th and a male flew over Maer Lake Dec 23rd.

MONTAGU'S HARRIER - Circus pygargus

Rare passage migrant. Has not bred since 1975. Saltash: male flew south Aug 15th. GDL. Optimism that a recent increase in the U.K. population might prove beneficial to Cornwall, appears to have been misplaced.

With none in spring for the first time since 1977, the one this year was the lowest total since 1984.

EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK - Accipiter nisus (Formerly Sparrowhawk) Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Records were received from at least 73 localities throughout the county but despite this the species remains grossly under-reported. Breeding season observations derived from at least 27 areas and breeding was proven at Wadebridge, Camel Est. (two sites), St. Eval area (three sites) and Drift Res. This does not reflect the true breeding status of this notoriously secretive raptor.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk John Walters

54 In the west of the county the majority of sightings occurred during August to October, co-inciding with autumn passage. Possible spring migrants included singles at Portmellon Apr 27th and Treveal May 16th whilst autumn passage apparently lasted from early August to early November. It is not possible to differentiate between resident and migrant birds but regular sightings in West Penwith involved up to 25 birds. Apart from the usual singles there was five at Drift Res. in August, two at Nanquidno Sept 5th, two at Sept 20th, two at Porthgwarra Oct 11th, 18th and 30th and two at Oct 15th. The most interesting prey item was a Jay at Glynn Valley Jul 14th.

NORTHERN GOSHAWK - Accipiter gentilis (Formerly Goshawk) Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. A few pairs breed annually in Devon and odd pairs may breed unnoticed or unrecorded in Cornwall. East Cornwall: singles May 4th and 14th, female Jun 7th. Observers initials withheld. Marazion: female Aug 19th. DSF. Caerthillian: male Sept 17th. ARP. Skewjack: female Sept 29th. JH. Nanquidno: male Oct 26th. DJO. Once again several other reports were received which did not preclude similar raptors or which were completely lacking in detail.

The county mainland total advances to c.67.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4 4 3 8 5 1 2 10 11 11 6 2 Top sites: Porthgwarra — eleven, East Cornwall — seven, Crowdy Res and Skewjack/Sennen — four each.

COMMON BUZZARD — Buteo buteo

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Yet another exceptional year. With birds reported from every corner of the county and no reports of any decrease, this species goes from strength to strength. Maximum numbers: Loe Pool: eight Feb 15th. Camel Est: eight Feb 28th. : 21 mid-May. Pentire: 14 Sept 20th. Portreath: 17 Sept 20th. Lizard : 14 Sept 20th. Sennen: 15 Sept 20th. Lands End: 35 Sept 20th (thus 50 in the general area). Kenidjack: 18 Sept 25th. Porthgwarra: 35 Oct 8th. Davidstow: 25 Oct 8th.

The Bray Shop concentration corresponds well with other recent high numbers in this area (see 1991 Report). The incursion of Sept 20th was associated with the only significant arrival of small passerines of the autumn and it is tempting to suggest that these birds were of continental origin. Reference to the available literature does not illustrate any corresponding influx in any other part of the U.K. and such mass movements of raptors through Cornwall are most unusual.

55 Breeding was widely reported and observations included the following: West Penwith: 'Now probably approaching optimum numbers in the area. A rough census during 1991 and 1992 indicates a population of some 50 pairs. Penwith district covers some 30000 hectares (75000 acres), of which urban and other unsuitable areas account for 10%, indicating an average available territory size of 550 hectares (1375 acres) or about two square miles per pair. The British average is 542 hectares (1355 acres) per pair. (Brown, L. 'British Birds of Prey' New Naturalist 60. Collins 1976) NRP.

Newquay/St. Columb/Padstow: 'A reasonable year with 15 nests studied and breeding proved at three other sites. From those studied, ten nests fledged one young and the other five fledged two young. Some birds only laid one egg although I suspect that food was in better supply because a single clutch of four and five clutches of three were found'. CM (CM requests details of any known sites in this area, in order that he can expand his survey).

Bodmin: 'a minimum of ten breeding pairs within a five mile radius of the town'. GJC.

An amusing observation concerned 'one sitting morbidly on a gravestone at St. Martins Church, Looe Feb 2nd'. EJW.

OSPREY — Pandion haliaetus Scarce passage migrant. Lanreath: one Apr 28th. CFNHC. Hayle Est: one flew south west May 16th. SMC. Towednack: one (presumed same as Hayle bird) May 16th. MJR.RJH. Drift Res: one (presumed same as Hayle bird) May 16th-19th. FP.JFR. et al, one Aug 23rd and Sept 11th. GH et al. St. Levan: one (presumed same as Hayle bird) May 16th. B. Camel Est: one Sept 12th-24th. TH.MT. et al. Ruan Lanihorne: one Oct 6th-17th. GCJ.SJH.REW et al.

Other reports received lacked descriptive detail.

The county mainland total advances to c.168.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 4 20 27 6 9 44 4? 10 1 — Top sites — Camel Est — 31, Ruan Lanihorne — 20, Tamar Est — 14, Hayle Est — nine, Lynher Est — eight.

COMMON KESTREL - Falco tinnunculus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The most under-reported of all Cornish raptor species. Despite this, only FHCK recorded a slight reduction in numbers and as this species is highly susceptible to cold winters it is anticipated that numbers will increase after two mild years.

Breeding was confirmed at Colliford, Cooksland, Porthcothan Bay, St. Eval, Bedruthan Steps, St. Eval, Trevose Head, St. Columb, St. Issey, St. Just-in-Roseland, , Halzephron, , Godrevy Point and Fishing Cove, Godrevy but this reflects more the distribution of interested fieldworkers than distribution of the bird. Success appeared high with many reports of four and five young.

Possible migrants in autumn were noted from mid-September to mid-October. Apart from one which flew out to sea at Dodman Sept 26th, small numbers occurred around the Lands End moors and valleys with peak counts of six at Porthgwarra Oct 8th and five at Towednack Oct 15th.

56 RED-FOOTED FALCON — Falco vespertinus

Rare vagrant. Porthgwarra: male May 21st. JFR. Lundy Bay: male May 27th. REW. Kynance Cove: female Jun 13th. JBa.JAR. and presumed same at Croft Pascoe Jun 21st. BTC. Crows-an-wra: first year male Jun 20th-28th. SPJ.BLR.GBH. et al. Four in one year is a record. These were associated with a huge influx involving at least 120 birds throughout the U.K. The Porthgwarra, Kynance and Crows-an-wra birds accepted by BBRC.

The county mainland total advances to c.16.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — — 8 4 — — 1 1 2 —

MERLIN — Falco columbarius

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. The number of birds (14) reported in December 1991 was maintained into 1992. Presumably some of these re-located in February because at least nine Merlins were reported from different sites. Spring passage was noted from early March to early May with the last at Pentire May 10th. C.18 birds were involved. Autumn passage commenced with one at Soapy Cove, Lizard Sept 9th but there was no more until a male at Porthgwarra and a female at Treen — both Sept 29th. It proved the lightest passage since 1986 with a mere 38 birds at 28 sites. However, these figures undoubtedly conceal the movement of individual birds between the many well watched localities in the Lands End area in October and the true figure may be considerably fewer. Despite the poor autumn movement, a total of 16 was reported in December — the second highest number ever for that month.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 14 14 9 8 4 — — 3 30 5 16 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tregonetha: singles Jan lst-9th and Apr 1st. Two different birds noted sporadically Oct 30th into 1993. Hayle Est: singles Jan 2nd, Feb 9th and Mar 9th. Trewey Common: two Jan 17th. Colliford Res: female Jan 19th, male Mar 15th, one Oct 26th. Sennen: singles Jan 26th, Feb 27th, Apr 22nd, Oct 9th-22nd and Dec 23rd. Lizard: singles Jan 27th-Feb 1st, Oct llth-14th and Oct 27th. Marazion: male Feb 19th, females Mar 28th and Apr 21st, one Oct 12th. Porthgwarra: male Sept 29th, then up to two almost daily through first two weeks of October and a male Oct 30th. Nancjuidno: two Oct 13th. Kenidjack: one Oct 13th-18th, two Oct 22nd, one Dec 16th-20th. Trevose Head: two Oct 22nd, one Oct 28th.

Most of the remaining observations concerned single day/single bird sightings.

HOBBY — Falco subbuteo

Scarce passage migrant (increasing). Rare breeding species in East Cornwall. Apparently bred at two sites in 1992 but only one young reared at each locality. DAC.GJC.BTC.JSH.FHCK. et al. Kennack Sands: one May 3rd. SCW.

57 Sennen: one May 6th. DSF. Wadebridge: one May 12th. DU. Marazion: singles May 15th and 22nd and Sept 5th. DSR.JFR. Morvah: one May 16th. RJH.MPS. Loe Pool: one May 20th. RJH.JFR.MPS. Porthgwarra: two May 21st, one Oct 7th and 10th. JFR.SB.JDB.SMC.DRC. et al. Trevaylor Wood, Penzance: one May 23rd. JFK. St. Buryan: one May 25th. JML. Goonhilly: first summer May 25th-29th. ARP. Towednack: singles May 27th and 31st and Aug 31st. MJR. Perranporth: one Jun 6th. SMC. Upper Fowey Valley: one Jun 21st and Aug 2nd. PE.ME.KP. Colliford: one Jun 22nd. DAC.GJC. St. Mellion: one Jun 27th. DC.SCM. Drift Res: singles Jul 10th and Oct 7th. GH.EGG.GGG. Porthcurno: first summer Jul 16th. GJC. : two Jul 27th. JHF. Halton Quay: one Aug 5th. GS. Zennor: one Aug 14th/15th. JFR. Trebrownbridge: immature Aug 16th and 30th. KP. Tregadillett: one Aug 22nd-25th. AMJD. Several other reports submitted lacked description.

The county mainland total advances to c.377 since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 30 103 59 35 48 67 35 — — (27%) Top sites: Porthgwarra — 41, Goonhilly — 24, Lizard and Marazion — 15 each, Stithians — eleven.

PEREGRINE FALCON — Falco peregrinus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Another bumper year with reports from at least 130 localities. Breeding was successful at a minimum of 19 eyries, whilst another pair is known to have laid eggs which failed to hatch. One, possibly three inland sites were utilised and at least four other coastal eyries were occupied, but success was not recorded. Apparently, only one traditional site was not used. This apparently healthy situation accords well with a B.T.O. survey which indicates a 25% increase nationally during the last ten years. Prey items included Gadwall, Ringed Plover, Lapwing, Dunlin, Bar-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Woodpigeon, Collard Dove and Turtle Dove.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE — Alectoris rufa

Feral release. Resident. Breeds. Thousands of hand-reared birds have been released for shooting purposes in various parts of the county over the last twenty years. Particularly large numbers have been released in mid and East Cornwall but few remain. The reason for the species failure to colonise i* not fully understood, but may be related to its preference for lighter, sandier soils. Pentire: one from 1991 to Mar 25th. : one Feb 3rd. : one Mar 22nd. Gribbin Head: noted Mar 28th to Oct 11th with max of 18 last date.

58 Penlee Point: two Apr 9th-25th. Polhawn Cove, Rame Head: one Apr 20th. Car and Cross: two Jul 8th. : one Jul 30th. Dodman Head: two Nov 8th.

A poor year, but the large covey at Gribbin Head may indicate successful breeding.

GREY PARTRIDGE - Perdix perdix

Resident. Breeds. Feral release. The Grey Partridge has been declining nationally for many years, but this decrease has accelerated over the last decade. Locally this decline is probably related to increased usage of herbicides and insecticides which destroy the species' primary food sources, coupled with a lack of 'headlands' used for breeding around field edges and a lack of fallow land suitable for feeding birds in winter. Without continuing releases of feral birds the species will almost certainly become extinct in Cornwall before the end of the century. The severity of the decline is illustrated by the fact that all records received are listed in a Cornwall Bird Report for probably the first time ever. St. Eval: two Jan 10th, male May 14th-18th. Bred, five young seen. Lostwithiel: six Feb 5th. Penlee Point/Rame Head: noted Apr 1 lth-Oct 3rd, normally one or two but 15 in September. : one May 16th. Towednack: two May 16th. Trevose Head: family party mid-summer, one Oct 1st. Tredizzick: one Sept 26th. : 13 Oct 11th. Camel Est: 14 Oct 13th, with ten to Dec 6th. Maker Heights: six Dec 29th. Odd small coveys or pairs also reported to the Editor during his travels in the St. Merryn- St. Eval-St. Columb area; probably not more than half a dozen reports in total, compared with dozens a few years ago.

COMMON QUAIL - Coturnix coturnix (Formerly Quail) Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor. Occasionally breeds. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Has overwintered. Annual since 1975. A good year with eleven singing males, mainly in traditional areas.

Gwithian: one May 17th-19th. CM.RLM.PAR et al. Hawks Tor: one May 22nd. JSH. Bostraze, St. Just: one May 26th. B. Bear Downs, St. Eval: one May 31st. SMC. : one Jun 10th. JB. Trenouth, Rumford: one mid June. PO'S. , Rumford: one mid Jun. BS. : one Jun 13th and Aug 1st. CFNHC. Stokeclimsland: one Aug 1st. AMJD. Tregathenan: one Sept 19th. JWJ. Other reports received lacked adequate detail for inclusion.

The county mainland total advances to c.243 ( + 63 young) since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 - 1 3 64 100 38 24 8 2 2 -

59 Top sites: Camel Est — 24, Lizard — 21, Winnards Perch — 16, East - 14, Porthgwarra — 12.

COMMON PHEASANT — Phasianus colchicus (Formerly Pheasant)

Resident. Breeds. Thousands released every year for sporting purposes, thus ensuring that populations are maintained at a high level. Reported as common in all districts but fewer large parties recorded. The largest were 22 at Porth Mear Sept 29th and eight at Camel Est Oct 17th.

Albinistic birds were observed at St. Germans, and St. Hilary whilst a single melanistic bird was at Tideford Oct 22nd.

GOLDEN PHEASANT — Chrysolophus pictus

Feral release. Escapee. A Category 'C species. Carnanton, St. Mawgan: a male Mar 16th. NA.

Enquiries with the gamekeeper on the local estate reveal that this was not released there.

WATER RAIL — Rallus aquaticus Rare resident. Breeds in very low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season information was received from the following sites; (with comparative data for 1986-1991). Figures represent number of young; p = present, success not known.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Marazion/Long Rock 2 P P P 4 4 5 Salter Creek, Tamar Est 3 3 — 2 — — P Gunwalloe P P — P — 1 P Par P Bude Marshes P Birds overwintering from 1991 were scarce and there was little evidence of spring migration. Autumn passage was equally unremarkable with few noted until October. Systemmatic checking of north coast valleys during November and December revealed good numbers, but there were few elsewhere.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 3 1 1 1 2 5 — 2 2 4 5 4 Par 1 — — 1 — 1 — — 1 8 2 2 Loe Pool 1 2 2 — — Marazion 1 — 1 1 1 2 — 4 3 5 — — Drift Res 2 — 1 1 2 — 2 Porthcothan 1 1 1 Maer Lake 1 1 1 Tamar Lakes 1 2 2 4 — — Other maxima included four at Lands End Oct 5th, five at Skewjack Oct 7th, six at Gunwalloe Oct 18th, three at St. Andrews Pool, Par Nov 4th, four at Mawgan Porth Dec 4th, five at Perranporth Dec 12th and five at Harlyn Bay Dec 14th.

SPOTTED CRAKE — Porzana porzana

Rare passage migrant (mainly mid August to late October). Very rare winter visitor. Bred in 1860, 1862 and 1874. Maer Lake: one Sept 15th-24th. GPS.AH.FHCK.

The county mainland total advances to c.84 since 1930.

60 Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 3 1 2 1 — 3 29 37 7 1 — (35%) (44%) Top sites: Marazion/Long Rock reedbeds — 41 (49%), Sennen — seven, Par, Porthgwarra and Tamar Lakes — four each.

MOORHEN — Gallinula chloropus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. After a period of apparent decline during the 1970's and 1980's, due mainly to habitat loss, a more enlightened attitude to habitat conservation and creation in the last few years has enabled the Moorhen to regain some lost ground.

Breeding was proven at twenty sites in 1992 and pairs were present in suitable habitat in many other localities. The most successful areas were Walmsley Sanctuary, Marazion Marsh and Trewinnick Pond, Rumford with seven, five and four breeding pairs respectively.

Numbers were low in both winter periods. First winter max included 15 at Maer Lake Jan 11th, 28 at Marazion Mar 2nd, 13 at Harlyn Fish Ponds Mar 29th and eleven at Par Apr 1st. In the second half of the year there were peaks of eleven at St. Johns Lake in September, 15 at Swanpool Oct 30th, 12 at Par Nov 14th and 14 at Mawgan Porth Nov 20th-23rd.

COMMON COOT — Fulica atra (Formerly Coot)

Resident. Breeds annually at Marazion Marsh, Swanpool and Stithians Reservoir but only sporadically elsewhere. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Successful breeding was reported from the following localities during 1992 (with comparative detail for 1986-1991). Figures represent number of pairs.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Marazion/Long Rock 12 1 3 2 10 7 2 Swanpool 3 1 1 2 2 — — Stithians Res 2 5 — 1 2 8 3 Colliford Res 2 3 p — — 1 3 Dozmary Pool 1 2 Par Beach Pool 1 — p — — — — St. Andrews Pool, Par 1 1 Harlyn Bay Fish Ponds 2 1 Tamar Lakes 1 1 — 1 — — 1 The number of birds visiting the county has reduced quite dramatically over the last decade. Former prime sites such as Porth Reservoir and Tamar Lakes now attract only a small percentage of earlier totals.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 496 381 217 20 40 40 40 106 335 379 329 323 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Siblyback Res 70 60 32 4 — — — 53 68 50 54 Colliford Res 50 48 16 10 11 11 1 12 16 14 17 18 Par 25 19 15 7 1 — 4 — 7 14 11 10 Stithians Res — — 8 — 4 — — 38 88 89 80 78 Argal Res 43 37 6 2 10 20 Swanpool 52 50 43 71 69 58 62

61 Loe Pool 70 32 30 — 10 — — — 50 55 41 35 Helston 8 6 10 4 19 13 21 Marazion/Long Rock 21 15 21 — 8 20 — 25 14 12 10 13 Drift Res. 20 25 8 1 — Tamar Lakes 28 40 — — — — 13 13 12 5 — —

COMMON CRANE - Grus grus

Vagrant. Crowdy Res: one Mar 8th. STB.AJB.SJB. The first since 1987.

The county mainland total advances to c.24 birds involved in eleven occurrences.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 - 2 2 1 — — — 1 11 5 1

OYSTERCATCHER — Haematopus ostralegus

Resident. Breeds in low numbers (mainly north coast). Passage migrant. Winter visitor. There was much improved coverage of known and potential breeding sites this year. Single pairs nested at Lye Rock, Rumps Point, Merope Rocks, Gulland Island, The Quies, Wills Rock (Porthcothan) and Fishing Cove, Godrevy. One or two pairs bred at Park Head with another two pairs at Porth Mear. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 722 791 297 352 227 159 420 1315 1327 1311 973 830

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Rame Head — 21 — 8 44 2 15 88 147 123 4 31 Tamar Est 45 29 7 3 — 4 6 30 49 101 23 47 St. Johns Lake 174 151 48 75 37 40 143 372 164 325 238 196 Lynher Est 55 27 33 22 1 — 43 161 36 15 74 44 Par 30 50 50 — — 54 — 140 130 142 30 — Truro River 34 32 24 24 — — — 22 51 114 46 30 Devoran 10 5 1 3 — — 3 12 32 11 3 28 Hayle Est 23 21 12 26 18 15 27 87 24 54 48 15 Camel Est 280 340 24 104 61 42 180 295 356 321 204 262 Elsewhere there were max of 43 at Mounts Bay Feb 11th, 65 at Feb 24th, 39 at Harlyn Bay the same day, 64 at Gwithian May 16th/17th with 133 there Sept 12th, 160 at Ruan Lanihorne Sept 27th, 109 at Maer Lake Nov 9th, 61 at Mawgan Porth Nov 20th and 60 at Gunwalloe Dec 1st.

BLACK-WINGED STILT - Himantopus himantopus Vagrant. Marazion Marsh: one May 15th-18th. DE.DSF.FHH.GR.SGR.JFR. et al. Accepted by BBRC. The 20th county mainland record and the first since 1988.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 7 6 2 1 1 3 Top sites: Marazion — five, Par — four, Hayle Est — three.

62 AVOCET — Recurvirostra avosetta

Rare passage migrant. Has wintered annually at Tamar Estuary since 1947/8 but only occasionally elsewhere.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 200 176 42 2 120 236 Tamar Est: noted until Mar 27th (one) and from Oct 29th (two) to the end of the year with monthly max of 200 January, 162 February, 42 March, 112 November and 168 December. These figures represent a slight decrease on the record counts of 1991 but the following table illustrates the overall increase since birds first wintered in the 1940's.

Five year average counts: 1st winter period 2nd winter period 1945/50 3 3 1951/55 15 15 1956/60 39 41 1961/65 52 52 1966/70 49 55 1971/75 59 54 1976/80 58 63 1981/85 82 83 1986/90 120 121 Elsewhere: Lynher Est: monthly max: 27 January, 14 February, two November, 67 December. The last count is a record here and highlights the importance of this estuary for birds temporarily displaced from the Tamar Est.

Ruan Lanihorne: one Nov 10th-15th. Hayle Est: five Nov 14th, one Dec 28th. St. Johns Lake: two Nov 20th (from Tamar Est. and the first here since 1982).

BLACK-WINGED PRATINCOLE - Glareoli nordmanni

Rare vagrant Davidstow Airfield/Hallworthy: first winter Oct 2nd-llth. CL.DKL.PJO.JFR. et al. The first for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Initially thought to be a Collared Pratincole this bird was subsequently re-identified as this species, by many competent observers. BBRC have currently pended the record.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius dubius

Uncommon passage migrant.

Another poor year with only one in spring and six in autumn.

Maer Lake: one May 18th. FHCK. Colliford Res: two juveniles Jul 31st - Aug 6th. WJW.JMR.DC. Loe Bar: singles Aug 8th and Sept 5th. JSG. Crowdy Res: juvenile Aug 9th. SMC. Stithians Res: one Sept 22nd. MT. The county mainland total advances to c. 171 — all but one since 1956.

MonthlJan yFe breakdownb Mar Ap: r May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — 3 43 31 4 15 43 27 3 1 — 1

63 Black-winged Pratincole Steve Bird

Top sites: Marazion — 35, Stithians Res — 31, Hayle/Copperhouse — 29, Drift Res — 12, Tamar Lakes — eleven.

GREAT RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius hiaticula (Formerly Ringed Plover)

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly a scarce breeding species, but this has not been confirmed since 1972. The species is unlikely to breed again on the Cornish mainland owing to vastly increased disturbance at potential sites even in the most remote districts.

First winter numbers were about the average of recent years. Spring passage, which was apparent from Apr 20th-Jun 17th was generally light with the majority of birds moving through Apr 20th-24th and May 13th-17th. First return birds were four at Camel Est and two at Par Jul 20th, but few others arrived until the last ten days of August. The second winter total was considerably higher than for the corresponding period in 1991.

ApproximatJan Febe monthlMar y Apcountr yMa totaly : Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 128 113 13 32 33 4 21 287 315 186 155 172

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est — — — — 2 — — I 12 — 25 — St. Johns Lake 2 — — — 4 — — 18 — 25 14 28 Lynher Est — 6 — — — — — 20 2 — — — Looe Est 25 17 4 — 9 14 15 Par 6 1 1 — 6 1 2 40 26 16 10 22 Ruan Lanihorne 9 10 _ 2 2 — — 9 — 4 3 — Loe Bar — — — 2 2 2 — 10 12 — _ — Mounts Bar — 36 — — 12 — — 6 50 32 — Hayle Est 19 13 — 26 1 — 8 38 30 58 35 7_7 Camel Est 58 27 12 — — — 6 35 40 25 38 30 Other coastal maxima included 14 at Sennen Aug 28th and 12 at Newquay Sept 13th.

Inland there was the usual scatter of records between Aug 9th and Oct 3rd (a good indication

64 of the extent of autumn passage). Peak counts included 60 at Predannack Aug 31st and 20 at Crowdy Res Sept 10th.

KENTISH PLOVER — Charadrius alexandrinus

Rare passage migrant. Hayle Est: two Apr 20th. AFJC. The first multiple occurrence since 1971. The county mainland total advances to c.47. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 3 11 18 1 — 8 6 — — — Top sites: Marazion — 19, Camel Est., Hayle Est. and Par — six apiece and Loe Bar — four.

DOTTEREL — Charadrius morinellus

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Davidstow Airfield: juvenile Sept 10th-12th. RS.EJW. et al. Porthgwarra: juvenile Oct 8th. JH.SMC.JDB.MB. et al.

The poorest year since 1979, with none in spring for the first time since 1986. The county mainland total advances to c. 197. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 1 9 22 13 — — 20 89 36 6 1 (45%) Top sites: Porthgwarra — 67 (34%), Lands End/Sennen/Skewjack — 34, Davidstow Airfield — 27, Lizard/Kynance — 19.

EUROPEAN GOLDEN PLOVER - Charadrius apricaria (Formerly Golden Plover)

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has never been proved in Cornwall, although a few pairs still nest on Dartmoor and single birds are occasionally seen in suitable habitat on Bodmin Moor. Flock size in January was generally small but there was a sizeable incursion in February after a brief cold spell. The last in spring were two at Crowdy Res May 24th and the first return bird was at Predannack Aug 27th. There was a slow build up in numbers but excellent totals in November and December.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 5610 9578 2159 91 8 — — 1 30 4774 11575 11761 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 30 386 75 39 23 Ruan Lanihorne 550 500 450 12 499 484 Sennen 60 300 2 1000 215 — Hayle Est — 156 300 300 3000 3000 Camel Est 2000 3000 30 1 143 2553 3000 Davidstow/Crowdy — — 23 — 2 — — — 7 250 50 1000 Colliford Res 1100 3000 800 335 1000 3400 3000

65 Elsewhere: Looe: 500 Jan 24th. Duloe: 600 Feb 8th. Brown Willy: 1000 Feb 23rd. Dozmary Pool: 800 Nov 3rd. St. Eval: 800 Nov 2nd.

GREY PLOVER — Charadrius squatarola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. After a poor end to 1991 there was a large increase in January and another incursion in February. Spring passage was apparent Apr 7th to Jun 10th. Two had returned to St. Johns Lake in July but there was no more until one at Loe Bar Aug 8th. Only a handful arrived before October but thereafter numbers built up to the end of the year. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 325 402 291 58 39 4 2 5 16 54 88 192 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 11 5 7 1 4 — — — — 1 1 1 St. Johns Lake 101 115 20 12 1 2 2 2 25 26 46 Lynher Est 12 62 26 10 — — — — 2 — 11 76 Looe 10 11 1 1 1 Ruan Lanihorne 23 — — 20 8 — — — — — 15 — Mounts Bay 43 3 1 — — Hayle Est 55 36 5 8 2 1 — 2 2 12 18 47 Camel Est 60 140 220 2 5 3 — — 6 13 10 24 Elsewhere there were max of 21 at Constantine Bay Mar 24th and ten at Loe Bar Mar 16th and May 16th.

Inland there was one at Stithians Res. Sept 20th/21st.

NORTHERN LAPWING - Vanellus vanellus (Formerly Lapwing)

Resident. Breeds in low numbers on Bodmin Moor and Lizard Downs. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported as follows: Colliford: two pairs: DAC. Crowdy Res: estimated six to ten pairs May 25th. JAdEM. Marsh: two females on nests May. JAdEM. Twelve Mans Moor: one pair with presumed young chicks in dry grass field. 'This is the first dry downland type breeding habitat that I have encountered on Bodmin Moor'. JAdEM. Hayle Kimbro: pair displaying during breeding season. ARP.MR. Former breeding sites on the Goss Moor do not appear to have been utilised since 1982.

Flock size in both winter periods was about the average of recent years with no evidence of cold weather movements.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 10706 11362 672 10 3 70 57 129 256 2283 7169 9610 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug 5>ep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 481 275 — — — 6 30 18 34 85 251 418 St. Johns Lake 100 210 12 1 — 1 15 10 9 40 — 19 66 Lynher Est 250 1300 400 — — 7 1 2 — 12 436 463 Ruan Lanihorne 540 520 120 — — 2 — — 20 250 601 600 Sennen 400 500 — — — 7 — — — 166 350 — Hayle Est 150 209 243 730 2000 Camel Est 4120 3000 1 1 — 2 8 12 20 293 2000 1360 Colliford Res 600 60 55 5 3 14 — 50 39 500 714 574 Crowdy Res 300 1200 14 3 — — — 1 100 400 400 1500 Maer Lake 620 700 60 130 — Tamar Lakes 1000 882 — — — — — 27 — — 180 1100 Other large flocks included 600 at Long Rock Jan 1st, 800 at Pengover Green Feb 27th and 600 at Nov 20th.

RED KNOT — Calidris canutus (Formerly Knot)

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly occurred in much greater numbers, particularly at St. Johns Lake where an examination of five-year average maximum counts reveals the following:

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

With only 38 and 22 in the same periods in 1991 there was a further reduction this year to new lows of 15 Jan 28th and 16 in December.

The only other sites attracting birds in the first winter were Lynher Est., Constantine Bay and Camel Est. Spring passage was evident from May 14th but only nine birds were observed with the last at Par Jun 19th (the second latest ever). The first in autumn was one at Tamar Est Jul 15th but apart from a good count on a St. Ives sea-watch Aug 30th, numbers were small with only c.107 reported to Oct 22nd. Five regular sites held birds in the second winter period. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 18 19 13 15 7 2 4 60 37 4 1 53

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est — — — — — — 1 4 — — 1 — St. Johns Lake 15 10 - 4 - — 1 — 6 — — 16 Lynher Est — 6 - 4 - — — — 1 — — 27 St. Ives 52 7 — — Hayle Est — — — - 1 1 — 1 6 — — — Camel Est 3 2 8 7 - — 2 1 11 3 — 9 No other site attracted more than two at any time. Inland records: Drift Res: one Sept lst/2nd. Predannack Airfield: two Sept 4th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 4th.

Since 1960, 136 birds have been reported from inland sites; the most popular of which have been Stithians Res — 57, Davidstow/Crowdy Res — 27, Predannack — 17 and Drift Res - 12.

67 SANDERLING — Calidris alba

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. Mounts Bay remains the most important site for the species in Cornwall, supporting not only the largest migratory parties but also the only regular wintering flock.

Apart from a high count at Mounts Bay in February numbers were exceptionally low throughout the year. Spring passage commenced with two at Bude Apr 21st and ended with one at Gwithian Jun 13th and involved c.110 birds. The first returning birds in autumn were three at Camel Est Jul 20th followed by birds at Rarne Head, Bude and Porthkidney Sands before the end of the month. A light movement continued through August and September with a few stragglers in October and November. Only two singles were reported in December but there was no information from Mounts Bay. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 16 95 24 2 102 6 19 88 40 18 28 2 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Par 2 1 6 - 3 5 — 30 2 2 1 1 Mounts Bay 12 93 12 - 18 — — — 6 5 25 — Hayle Est 1 6 1 — — Porthkidney Sands — — — - 10 — 11 11 — — — — Gwithian — — — - 34 1 — 2 — — — — Camel Est 2 1 6 — — — 3 15 4 — 2 — Bude — — — 2 5 — 3 1 — — — — Elsewhere: Looe: nine May 9th. Rame Head: eight May 15th, eight May 16th, two Jul 25th — all west. Loe Bar: 19 Aug 8th, two Sept 12th. St. Ives: 12 Sept 3rd, eight Oct 2nd, one Oct 23rd — all west.

Up to five were reported from Tamar Est., St. Johns Lake, Kennack Sands, Porthgwarra, Newquay, Park Head and Trevose Head.

Inland: Colliford Res: two Aug 3rd. Predannack: notd Aug 27th-Sept 21st with max four Sept 2nd. A total of 90 have been reported from inland localities since 1930. Top sites are Stithians Res — 23, Crowdy Res — 20, Drift Res — ten and up to seven at ten other locations.

LITTLE STINT — Calidris minuta Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor.

One in spring but a meagre total of c.21 in autumn — the lightest passage since 1982.

Maer Lake: singles May 14th-20th and Sept 19th-Oct 4th. GPS.AH.FHCK.EJC. et al. Camel Est: one Sept 6th, three Sept 17th. ADD.ML.JH. et al. Stithians Res: two Sept 14th, one Sept 29th. B. Par: one Sept 19th. GRW.MW. Hayle Est: two Sept 22nd with one to 25th, another Oct 4th. EGG.GGG.DU. et al. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 23rd. B. Mounts Bay: two Sept 27th. B. St. Johns Lake: one Sept 27th. RWG.SCM. Predannack Airfield: one Sept 27th. ARP. Bosistow Farm, St. Levan: two Oct 7th with one to 8th. BG.

68 Loe Bar: one Oct 7th. JSC Crowdy Res: one Oct 13th. SMC.MB. 1991 record: Millbrook Lake: one Jan 19th/20th. GG.IG.GDL. (Accepted by C.F.N.H.C.).

The first mid winter record since 1985.

LEAST SANDPIPER — Calidris minutilla

Very rare vagrant. 1991 record: The bird accepted by BBRC.

TEMMINCK'S STINT — Calidris temminckii Vagrant.

Walmsley Sanctuary: one May 24th. ACH.BCW.

The 24th county mainland record.

MonthlJan yFe breakdownb Mar Ap: r May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — — 2 4 2 - 5 6 11 — 3 Top sites: Stithians Res and Falmouth — four each, Hayle Est. — three.

PECTORAL SANDPIPER - Calidris melanotos

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Stithians Res: one Sept 12th-27th, another Sept 19th-26th. SFJ.RAJ. et al. Maer Lake: one Sept 15th-25th. GPS.AH.FHCK. et al. Nanquidno: one Sept 19th. RJH.JH.JFR.MPS. et al. Loe Pool: one Oct 12th. JS. The county mainland total advances to c.198.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 2 2 2 — 25 132 32 3 — (67%) Top sites: Stithians Res. — 38, Drift Res. — 25, Marazion — 24, Hayle Est. — 17, Davidstow Airfield/Crowdy Res. — 15.

CURLEW SANDPIPER - Calidris ferruginea

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. No fully documented records in spring and a terrible autumn involving only 17 birds. Tamar Est: singles Aug 9th and 31st. Hayle Est: juvenile Sept 5th/6th, two juveniles Sept 21st. Camel Est: one Sept 13th, seven Sept 16th. Predannack: one Sept 19th, two Sept 20th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 27th. Kennack Sands: one Oct 4th. Par: juvenile Oct 6th.

PURPLE SANDPIPER - Calidris maritima Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Godrevy has recently replaced Mounts Bay as the prime site for this species in Cornwall.

69 Apart from a record count at Constantine Bay peak counts at other localities were slightly down on recent averages. The last in spring was one at Godrevy May 23rd and the first returning autumn bird was one there Jul 31st.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 85 85 76 113 75 — 1 1 4 63 109 101 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan heb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug aep uct Nov Dec Looe 4 3 3 4 1 Par 5 2 5 5 1 — — — 1 1 — 3 Mounts Bay 27 15 18 40 13 — — — — 3 46 40 Sennen — — — 6 — — — — — 13 — — St. Ives — — — 2 — — — — — 8 4 — Godrevy 41 44 44 56 53 — 1 1 3 35 55 55 Newquay 1 2 3 1 3 — 1 Camel Est — 3 2 1 Bude 2 — 1 3 8 Elsewhere there was one at Jan 2nd, up to four at Marazion Jan 4th-Feb 11th, 14 at Constantine Bay Feb 24th and one at Trevose Bay Feb 29th.

DUNLIN — Calidris alpina Passage migrant. Abundant winter visitor. Small numbers which occasionally breed on Bodmin Moor are the most southerly breeding Dunlin in the world. The huge flock at St. Johns Lake in December 1991 had reduced by approximately 25% early in the year but there were small increases at some other sites. Spring passage was light with the last at Par Jun 19th. The first return birds were probably the 40 at Par Jun 29th. Apart from a fair movement of birds in August it proved to be a light passage. Second winter flocks were below the recent average. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 8943 6011 1477 82 157 49 151 978 470 272 3752 6377

(These figures take account of inter-estuary movements on the Tamar/Lynher complex). Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 340 219 121 — 14 — 2 15 5 40 175 131 St. Johns Lake 3700 1920 149 30 9 3 17 130 12 70 2455 3600 Lynher Est 200 1000 — 7 5 — 6 250 51 17 300 3100 Ruan Lanihorne 670 650 120 6 28 2 20 — 30 - 35 Truro River 375 720 — 2 _ 7 120 600 Hayle Est 396 1200 170 9 20 1 22 50 28 55 342 860 Camel Est 1506 1160 480 20 25 — 78 210 45 12 286 591 300 were at Tresillian in December but no more than 200 were at any other locality at any one time.

Inland there was the usual scatter of records from various reservoirs and airfields Peak counts included 37 at Crowdy Res. Jan 12th with 36 there Aug 31st, 45 at Predannack Jan 25th and 30 at Colliford Res. in March.

Three late birds were at Crowdy Res. May 20th but there was no hint of breeding behaviour. Unusual was a milky tea-coloured leucistic bird at St. Germans Sept 23rd. SCM.

70 BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER - Tryngites subruficollis

Vagrant. Davidstow Airfield: juvenile Sept 10th-29th, another Sept 19th-22nd. GJC.BTC.AH.RF. GPS. et al. Stithians Res: juvenile Sept 19th-29th. RB.SMC.DE.KN. et al. Predannack Airfield: juvenile Sept 19th-Oct 2nd. RB.DC.EG.ARP. et al. The county mainland total advances to c.80, two in the nineteenth century and the remainder since 1968. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 3 70 6 1 — (88%)

Top sites: Predannack Airfield — 27, Davidstow Airfield — 21, Stithians Res — nine, St. Just Airfield and Porthgwarra — five each.

RUFF — Philomachus pugnax

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. A male and female were observed at a potential breeding site in 1980 but there has been no repetition. Only one was noted in the first winter period but there was an excellent spring passage involving c.78 birds between Mar 24th and Jun 7th with heaviest movement Apr 20th-23rd and May 18th-24th. The first of c.64 in autumn were two at Crowdy Res. Jul 27th and the last was one at Tresillian Nov 19th. None was reported in the second winter period.

Approximate monthly countr y total: Jan Feb Mar A P May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 1 1 4 3 34 1 2 19 31 9 8 — Regular reports and maximum numbers: Maer Lake: one Feb 22nd, six between Apr 6th and May 20th and five between Aug 24th and Nov 2nd. Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield: 14 between Apr 6th and May 20th and 14 between Jul 27th and Oct 12th with max of ten Apr 21st, seven Sept 11th and Oct 3rd. Stithians Res: 13 Apr 20th, ten May 22nd, two Aug 24th-28th. Ruan Lanihorne: eight between Apr 20th and Jun 7tn with max of five May 18th. One Aug 17th. Hayle Est: seven Apr 20th and c.18 between Aug 13th and Sept 29th with max of ten last date. Mounts Bay: 15 between Apr 21st and May 24th with max of nine last date. One Sept 23rd. Camel Est: singles Apr 25th and May 18th, three Sept 6th, one Nov 14th/15th. Up to three were noted at Rame Head, Tamar Est., Looe, Colliford Res., Par, Gannel Est., Tresillian, Devoran, Predannack, Drift Res., Sennen and St. Just Airfield.

JACK SNIPE — Lymnocryptes minimus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Another good year with c. 15 in the first winter, one in spring, eight in autumn and twelve in the second winter period. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 7 3 7 1 4 8 11

Drift Res: one from 1991 to Jan 7th. Singles Oct 18th, Nov 6th-21st and Dec 26th into 1993. Possibly only one bird involved. Marazion Marsh: one from 1991 to Jan 7th. Same or another Feb 28th-Mar 2nd.

71 Lakes: one from 1991 to Jan 20th. Stithians Res: one Jan 28th, two Oct 18th. Trethurgy: two Jan 22nd. Halvana: one Jan 25th. Hayle Est: singles Feb 10th, Nov 24th and Dec 25th but two Dec 4th. Silverwell Moor, Chiverton: one Feb 15th. Maer Lake: one Mar 2nd-7th, two Nov 5th. Park Head: three Mar 6th-8th. Crowdy Res: one Mar 10th. Walmsley Sanctuary: one Mar 30th. Lands End: one Sept 27th. Tregonetha: one Oct 5th. St. Columb Porth: four Nov 25th into 1993. Bude Marshes: one Dec 3rd. Harlyn Bay: one Dec 14th. Camel Est: three Dec 15th.

COMMON SNIPE — Gallinago gallinago Resident. Breeds in low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Rather scarce in the first winter and spring with the last at Marazion May 14th. The first in autumn was at Stithians Res. Jul 28th but few others arrived until October. Better numbers in the second winter period, particularly in north coast valleys from Perranporth to Bude.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar A Pr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 649 543 144 r 3 — 3 28 41 249 918 950

Rponlar rpnnrtc anH mavimnm numhprw Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 47 1 22 62 35 Lynher Est 15 18 20 — 80 Par 50 50 3 1 — — — — 6 12 30 20 Marazion Marsh 50 75 17 2 1 — — — 5 15 10 — Camel Est 60 100 — — — — 2 5 — 7 35 35 Harlyn Bay 15 55 159 Maer Lake 250 250 100 20 120 600 500

Elsewhere there were max of 26 at St. Johns Lake in January, 22 at St. Neot Jan 1st, 30 at Gulval Jan 4th, 27 at Sennen Oct 31st, 50 at St. Eval Nov 20th, 37 at St. Columb Porth Nov 25th, 41 at Mawgan Porth in December and 46 at Perranporth Dec 13th. The 600 at Maer Lake in November appears to be the largest concentration ever reported in the county.

Breeding season observations consisted of singles drumming at Bastreet May 5th and Temple Bridge May 18th.

LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER — Limnodromus scolopaceus Rare vagrant. 1990 records: The Drift Res and Crows-an-wra records accepted by BBRC.

The Camel Est bird rejected by BBRC.

WOODCOCK — Scolopax rusticola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Has bred on very few occasions but not for at least twenty years. After the excesses of 1991 there was a return to more normal numbers this year.

72 C.44 were reported from January to mid March with the last at and Bugle Ma 13th and 14th respectively. The first return bird was at Trelissick Sept 12th. GW — the earliest ever in autumn. Ther was no more until one at Cot Valley Oct 20th and the total of c.21 to the end of the yea was the lowest since 1987. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 33 8 3 1 1 8 12 The maximum included 12 near Treponema and six at Bugle in January, three at Smiths Plantation, Bodmin Moor Jan 1st, three at Lanivet Jan 2nd and five at Bugle Dec 7th.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa limosa

Passage migrant. Winter visitor, almost exclusively to south coast estuaries. There has been a substantial reduction in the number of birds wintering in the county over the last twenty years. This is well illustrated at Ruan Lanihorne where GCJ comments that the average peak for the preceding ten years was 133, but this year the maximum was only 52. This reduction may be related to a 13% increase in the number of birds using the Exe Estuary in Devon over the last decade. (Devon Bird Report 1991). Spring passage was evident during May and early June with the last at Hayle Est on 10th. The first in autumn were five at Ruan Lanihorne Jul 3rd. Few were noted away from traditional localities. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 275 146 99 73 46 10 28 115 158 230 209 168

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 23 13 16 11 — 1 — 9 1 87 51 63 St. Johns Lake 38 18 — — 1 — — 4 — 24 48 9 Lynher Est 64 48 24 35 1 — 8 16 24 11 14 19 Ruan Lanihorne 10 — — — 15 — 16 52 27 4 7 2 Tresillian 9 5 15 — 5 — — — 7 10 20 16 Truro River 86 43 20 20 — — — — 42 69 34 37 Devoran 37 15 — — — 4 — — 10 23 33 20 Hayle Est — 1 6 2 3 4 1 19 9 1 — 1 Camel Est 3 3 7 4 5 — 2 13 12 1 — — Single observations of up to four birds emanated from Fowey Est., Par, Helford Est., Marazion and Sennen.

Inland records: Drift Res: singles Mar 17th and Aug 29th, eight Sept 20th. Crowdy Res/Davidstow Airfield: three May 6th, one Sept 13th. Colliford Res: one May 16th. Stithians Res: one Aug 24th, three Sept 9th. With the Truro River now apparently the most important site for the species in the county, one can only hope that proposed development there does not interfere with or destroy any of the mudflats.

BAR-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa lapponica

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The majority of the late 1991 birds overwintered and there was a notable incursion in the latter half of March. Subsequently spring passage was light until the third week of June. The first return birds were singles at Hayle Est. and Camel Est. Jul 20th. Apart from a huge coastal movement Sept 11th numbers were exceptionally low to the end of the year.

73 Approximately monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 145 155 256 116 144 6 6 13 559 24 33 14 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug bep Oct Nov Dec St. Johns Lake 20 20 100 26 9 2 — 2 2 10 4 10 Lynher Est 14 46 62 3 7 — 2 5 1 4 1 3 Par 4 3 1 4 3 2 — 1 1 — 24 — Hayle Est 16 8 13 20 10 2 1 — 8 1 — — Camel Est 83 71 76 57 14 — 1 1 11 5 3 — Other maxima included 18 Bude May 14th, 35 at Loe Bar May 16th, 19 flew east at Rame Head the same day, 257 west at St. Ives Sept 11th and 170 west off Rumps Point the same day.

Inland: Predannack: one Apr 26th. Sennen: one Sept 12th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 13th.

WHIMBREL — Numenius phaeopus Passage migrant (mainly spring). A few overwinter. In the first winter period there was up to three at St. Johns Lake during January with one remaining to March, and one at The Lizard Jan 27th.

Spring passage commenced with singles at St. Ives and Helford Est. Apr 15th with birds at eight more sites over the next two days. The first significant arrival involved c.150 birds Apr 20th but the two highest single-day counts were 742 Apr 26th and 1035 May 25th. Passage ceased at the end of May but singles apparently 'summered' at St. Johns Lake and Hayle Est. The first return birds were one at Sennen Jun 26th followed by six at Camel Est Jul 7th. Numbers built up with returning Curlew flocks to a peak in late August. At this time many parties were noted on sea-watches. Passage terminated towards the end of September with just a few stragglers in October. In December there were singles at St. Johns Lake, Carrick Roads and Camel Est. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4 1 1 1100 1535 3 73 443 123 8 1 3

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec St. Johns Lake 3 1 1 80 4 1 40 43 3 2 1 1 Rame Head 54 44 2 3 2 — — — St. Austell Bay — — — 150 35 —_ — — 8 5 - - Devoran — — — 80 7 — — — — - - 1 Mounts Bay — — — 110 1027 — 1 42 5 — — — Est — — — 20 7 1 5 12 4 — — — Trevose Head — — — 101 28 — — 3 1 — — — Camel Est — — — 37 115 — 19 29 26 — — 1

The Mounts Bay count included a single day total of 1000 May 25th, mirroring a similar movement here on 22nd April 1990.

Elsewhere there were peaks of 95 west at Portwrinkle Apr 25th, 120 at Falmouth, 100 at Looe and 90 over — all Apr 26th, 150 at West Pentire May 4th, 57 west at Godrevy Aug 17th and 91 west at St. Ives Aug 30th.

74 EURASIAN CURLEW — Numenius arquata (Formerly Curlew)

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. This species is becoming progressively less common as a breeding bird in Cornwall. Three adults with a juvenile at Croft Pascoe Jul 1st was the sole proof of breeding this year but displaying pairs were noted at Dozmary Pool and Colliford whilst two pairs were holding territory in the Upper Fowey Valley in May. Excellent numbers were reported at both ends of the year with a particularly large flock at Hayle Est during January/February. This congregation was the largest ever on this estuary and the second largest ever in Cornwall. A few non-breeders 'summered' and the first returning autumn birds were evident by mid- June. Passage continued until October with a subsequent diminution to the end of the year.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4167 3506 626 207 139 1048 3194 3853 3214 2768 2148 1984 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 272 147 22 4 2 56 263 245 265 386 312 241 St. Johns Lake 205 174 32 40 12 60 61 8 122 308 152 140 Lynher Est 186 319 46 11 12 239 530 717 457 323 270 214 Ruan Lanihorne 6 20 19 12 2 66 550 325 226 30 40 12 Tresillian 124 338 50 10 9 155 242 196 312 230 56 47 Truro River 196 174 33 7 7 23 217 171 115 137 152 96 Devoran 185 132 80 17 10 44 445 461 110 246 260 225 Hayle Est 1183 990 150 26 — 201 137 500 470 180 180 55 Gannel Est 500 320 99 53 53 — — 406 414 298 215 300 Camel Est 340 375 60 7 16 148 650 550 650 433 300 248 Maer Lake 150 150 25 60 Elsewhere there were maxima of 174 at Porthcothan Jan 12th, 115 at Poldhu Feb 3rd, 104 at Fowey Est Oct 11th, 135 at Looe in November and 200 east there in one hour Dec 25th.

SPOTTED REDSHANK — Tringa erythropus

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor, almost exclusively confined to south coast estuaries. In an exceptionally poor year for 'shanks' in general, this species proved particularly elusive. The usual small parties wintered at traditional sites but both spring and autumn movements were abysmal. Only twelve were noted in April with over half of these in a single party at Camel Est. The last was noted there Apr 25th with the first in autumn also there, Jun 29th. Two months then elapsed before the next, at Hayle Est Aug 25th. From then to the end of the year a mere ten birds were reported away from the regular wintering localities. Approximately monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 34 21 15 17 — 2 — 2 11 32 28 27 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr :Ma y Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 3 4 1 6 — — — — 4 5 3 1 Lynher Est 13 11 9 3 10 17 16 Tresillian 10 5 4 4 14 8 10 Hayle Est 1 2 1 — — Camel Est — — — 7 — 2 — — 2 1 — —

Elsewhere there was eight at St. Johns Lake Jan 21st (presumably from Lynher Est.),

75 one at Ruan Lanihorne Feb 8th, one at Truro Mar 5th and one at Looe Oct 29th. Inland there was one at Drift Res. Aug 28th. Of particular concern is the apparently total collapse of the formerly regular late summer/autumn flock at Ruan Lanihorne. Peak counts of 20/30 birds were reached annually throughout the 1970's and early 1980's but recent counts have gradually diminished to none in 1992.

COMMON REDSHANK - Tringa totanus (Formerly Redshank) Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Bred in 1904 and 1980; probably bred in 1968. Numbers remained steady from December 1991 into January this year but there was a 20% increase in February, probably relating to birds displaced by the brief cold snap. Most departed again rapidly with few after mid-March. Spring passage was again light with the last at Hayle Est May 25th. The first in autumn was at Bude Jun 10th. Passage was fairly heavy but peaked about two weeks later than normal. Second winter flocks were slightly smaller than normal. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 766 919 220 20 11 239 594 96 1020 1421 966 833

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 105 148 40 3 — 200 174 269 219 404 394 146 St. Johns Lake 180 203 46 10 6 3 128 96 260 335 43 152 Lynher Est 192 200 54 1 — 8 143 145 195 227 227 217 Fowey Est — 20 15 1 — — — 15 — 38 — 20 Ruan Lanihorne 20 11 65 54 65 20 15 Tresillian 48 77 — — — 3 45 105 114 80 10 21 Truro River 43 42 34 — — — 2 17 3 40 57 41 Devoran 40 62 — 1 1 — 12 81 90 88 58 42 Helford Est 31 13 20 — — — 12 13 13 — 14 21 Hayle Est 35 45 7 2 1 2 30 40 39 57 45 103 Camel Est 69 95 2 1 — 14 43 96 108 86 97 91 The same comment regarding Ruan Lanihorne (see Spotted Redshank) applies here. From a peak of 800 there in August 1975 there has been a gradual deterioration to the current position, of less than 10% of that number.

Inland there were singles at Stithians Res. Jan 24th and Aug 10th, Colliford Res. Jun 20th, Drift Res. Jul 31st-Aug 2nd, Porth Res. Sept 7th and Crowdy Res. Sept 29th.

COMMON GREENSHANK - Tringa nebularia (Formerly Greenshank)

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The only estuary not supporting at least one bird in either winter period was the Gannel. Spring passage was light with the last at Goonhilly May 29th. The first return bird was at Truro River Jun 15th with others at five additional sites before the end of the month. Reasonable numbers were counted on estuaries but rising reservoir levels precluded any high counts inland. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 61 53 31 26 17 7 34 100 107 98 42 53 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 6 6 7 7 1 1 3 10 1 11 7 2

76 St. Johns Lake 16 10 8 9 — 1 4 28 24 29 5 20 Lynher Est 7 15 9 3 1 1 7 15 10 3 8 7 Fowey Est 1 4 — 1 6 — 1 Tresillian 3 2 — 1 — — — 2 6 5 3 5 Truro River 9 2 1 — 3 1 1 — 1 5 2 — Devoran 4 3 — — — 3 3 12 10 2 1 Helford Est 4 2 1 1 — — 1 3 5 4 2 4 Hayle Est 2 2 2 — 4 — 1 3 5 4 2 4 Camel Est 8 6 1 3 1 1 13 16 22 18 9 6 The highest inland counts included seven at Colliford Res. Aug 1st, seven at Drift Res Aug 29th and three at Tamar Lakes Sept 5th. No more than two was reported from any other locality. Unusual was a bird at Fowey Est Dec 27th which had white secondaries, inner primaries and tertials. It is presumed to have been the same as the individual with white secondaries noted here on 11th December 1989. SCM.

GREEN SANDPIPER — Tringa ochropus

Passage migrant (mainly autumn). A few overwinter. In the first winter period (Jan-Mar) there were two together at Lynher Est. and Gannel Est. plus singles at Hayle Est., Mullion and Stithians Res.

Spring passage was the poorest since 1977 with singles only at Hayle Est Apr 10th and Stithians Res. Apr 23rd. The first in autumn was at Camel Est. Jun 17th. C.60 birds were reported to the end of October with five lingering at typical localities to the end of the year.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 7 3 5 5 7 20 25 18 9 3 5 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 2 1 1 Lynher Est 2 2 3 3 2 2 2 4 1 1 Stithians Res 1 1 2 3 2 1 Hayle Est 1 1 2 1 4 2 2 1 1 Drift Res 1 3 6 2 2 2 Camel Est 1 2 4 Colliford Res 1 3 2

One or two were also observed at St. Johns Lake, Fal Est., Mullion, Croft Pascoe, Hayle Kimbro Pool, Nanquidno, St. Bury an, Porthgwarra and Porth Res.

WOOD SANDPIPER — Tringa glareola

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Six in spring is a record for that season but twelve in autumn is disappointing. Stithians Res: singles Apr 23rd and May 24th. Noted in autumn from Aug 9th to Aug 31st, usually two, but three Aug 24th. RAJ.DE.FHH.DC.GHT. et al. Hayle Kimbro Pool: three May 13th-20th, one Jun 16th/17th. ARP.RJH. et al. Marazion Marsh: one May 19th-21st. SGR. et al. Colliford Res: two Jul 31st-Aug 6th with one to Aug 13th. EHW.WJW.JMR. Drift Res: one Aug 9th-23rd. DC.EJC.FP. et al. Croft Pascoe Pool: three Aug 14th. SK.JK. Tamar Est: juvenile Aug 29th. GDL. Camel Est: one Sept 23rd. ML.

77 After a complete review of all records the county mainland total advances to c.874.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 7 14 44 31 88 491 17% 19 2 — (56%)

Top sites: Stithians Res — 181, Marazion Marsh — 114, Hayle Est — 90, Crowan Res — 73, Drift Res and Camel Est — 57 each.

SPOTTED SANDPIPER — Actitis macularia Rare vagrant. 1990 record: Lynher Est: adult Sept 18th. EHW.

Accepted by BBRC.

The seventh county mainland record.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 1 1 3 1

COMMON SANDPIPER - Actites hypoleucos Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. Bred in 1989, probably in 1988, but previously not since 1910. Singles overwintered from 1991 at St. Johns Lake, Lynher Est and Gannel Est. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were singles only at West Looe River and Helford Est.

Spring passage commenced with three at Fowey Est Apr 11th and ended with one at Camel Est May 23rd. The first return bird was at Polbathic Jun 14th but few arrived until mid July. A total of c.190 birds was involved, slightly below recent averages, with most moving through from mid July to the end of August. Eight remained to the end of the year — two each at Tamar Est and Lynher Est plus singles at Lerryn, Tresillian, Gannel Est and Camel Est.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 5 4 3 28 25 5 80 128 22 21 8 8 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr ^ 4ay Jun Jul , Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est — — — — — — 6 22 — 6 — — St. Johns Lake 1 1 1 1 1 2 6 — 4 3 2 Lynher Est 1 — — — 1 1 8 5 — 1 2 2 Colliford Res 1 6 6 2 — — — Fowey Est/Lerryn 1 1 — 3 2 — 1 Ruan Lanihorne 1 3 1 1 — — Tresillian — — — 3 1 — 1 — — — — 1 Helford Est 1 — — 1 — — 3 — — — — — Stithians Res — 1 2 — 7 4 1 — — — Loe Pool — — — 1 1 — 6 — _ 1 Mounts Bay 1 4 2 — 1 _— — Drift Res — 1 5 10 3 _ — — Hayle Est — 4 2 9 13 3 2 — _ Gannel Est — 1 1 2 2 2 2 8 1 1 1 Camel Est — — 1 4 — 11 7 3 2 2 1 Crowdy Res — — — 5 — — 1 14 1 — — — Bude — — — 1 5 — — 3 5 — — — 78 There was no more than three at any other site.

TURNSTONE — Arenaria interpret

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. Rare inland. First winter flocks were about the average of recent years. Spring passage was virtually non-existent with the last at Par Jun 19th. The first return birds were two at Hayle Jul 23rd with reports from Porthgwarra, Newquay, Camel Est and Bude before the end of the month. Flocks built up slowly and the end of year total was poor. Approximately monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 314 345 236 153 45 10 23 136 220 289 164 212 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 22 18 3 — — 4 30 St. Johns Lake 21 37 15 45 - 28 110 10 26 Lynher Est 16 — 3 — — — - 6 1 19 — 36 Looe 100 25 78 1 — — - 6 65 14 7 8 Par 20 — 40 — 25 10 - 40 50 46 — — Devoran 5 — — 14 — — - 6 — — — — Mounts Bay — 62 - 5 15 4 36 — Sennen — 24 — 10 — — — — 5 — — — Hayle Est 3 6 — 18 — — 4 7 5 1 8 — Newquay 10 — 10 1 — — 7 - 2 6 — 5 Camel Est 60 74 28 43 10 — 2 20 62 24 24 44 Bude 21 15 20 16 6 — 3 11 14 28 36 15 Other site maxima included 20 at Seaton Jan 19th, ten at Helford Est Jan 22nd, 50 at Carrick Roads Feb 1st, 52 at Constantine Bay Feb 29th, 35 at Godrevy Oct 15th, 15 at Falmouth Nov 4th, 15 at St. Ives Nov 16th and 12 at Dec 22nd.

Inland records: Drift Res: one Aug 8th. Predannack Airfield: one Aug 30th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 12th-18th.

GREY PHALAROPE — Phalaropus fulicarius

Uncommon passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor. A poor year with none in either winter period and a general lack of suitable gales in autumn ensuring the lowest annual total since 1979. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 7 1 12 2 — Pendeen: two Aug 30th, three Aug 31st and singles Oct 15th and 23rd. EJC.AMH.RMRJ. TP. et al. Perranporth: one picked up exhausted Aug 30th. RH. Cape Cornwall: one Aug 30th. RJH. St. Ives: one Sept 11th, two Oct 15th, three Oct 23rd, five Oct 25th. SMC.RJF.BTC.DU. et al. Gerrans Bay: one Nov 1st. PAM. Swanpool: one Nov 25th/26th. B.

The county mainland total advances to c.3780 since 1930.

79 Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 31 10 3 1 — — 1 52 1041 1964 549 128 (28%) (52%)

Top sites: St. Ives — 2709 (72%), Pendeen — 242, Newquay — 210, Mounts Bay — 152.

POMARINE SKUA — Stercorarius pomarinus Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. The first of the year was an adult off St. Ives Apr 15th — the second earliest ever in spring. 17 more birds followed in April/May with the last off Porthgwarra May 23rd. Autumn passage was noted from Jul 11th to Oct 28th with single, later birds at Rumps Point and Killigerran Head.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar A May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — t 13 — 48 53 21 17 1 1 St. Ives: one Apr 15th. JMR. 22 west between Aug 20th and Oct 25th with max of three Oct 15th and four Oct 25th. SGR.MJR.MDR.SMC.DJO.BTC.GRW.MW. et al. Porthgwarra: eight west between Apr 24th and May 23rd and 58 west between Jul 11th and Oct 10th with max of 18 Jul 11th (the second best day count ever here). PAM.MCH. SML.SGR.DSF.JFR. et al. Pendeen: one May 9th and 26 west between Jul 11th and Oct 3rd with max of five Jul 11th, eight Aug 30th and five Sept 7th. B.DRC.TD.RJH.JH.RMRJ. et al. Rame Head: one May 13th, nine Jul 11th, three Sept 11th, one Sept 12th. JFB.DRC.EJW. Par: seven May 18th. DJB.SMC.PH.RJC. Looe: two Aug 12th. SCM. Killigerran Head: two Aug 22nd and singles Sept 17th and Dec 18th. PAM. Treen: singles Aug 24th and 28th. DIMW. Cape Cornwall: one Aug 28th, four Aug 30th and singles Oct 27th and 28th. RJH.RB.JH. et al. Newquay: five Aug 30th, two Sept 2nd, two Sept 3rd and one Oct 25th. TMC.JH.EJC.PE. VRT. Trevose Head: one Sept 19th. GJC. Rumps Point: one Nov 26th. ML. Data prior to 1906 is sketchy and none was reported in the county between 1906 and 1950. This years' total of c.165 is the fourth highest ever and takes the county mainland total to c.2151. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 5 5 — 32 244 41 78 178 342 828 376 22 (38%)

Top sites: St. Ives — 959 (45%), Pendeen — 344, Porthgwarra — 234, Rame Head — 140, Cape Cornwall — 75, Rosemullion Head — 68, Newquay — 63.

ARCTIC SKUA — Stercorarius parasiticus

Passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. The first in spring was one off Rame Head Apr 11th. A total of 16 birds was reported with the last at Porthgwarra Jun 30th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one off Rame Head Jul 11th, consisted of c.610 birds and ended Oct 25th. Like Pomarine Skua small numbers were noted on an almost daily basis by observers seeking the large shearwaters off Porthgwarra from mid July to mid August.

80 North coast passage was slow until the last week of August which culminated in the heaviest single day movement for many years on Aug 30th. However, the observation of birds off several different headlands on the day will have grossly distorted the actual figure involved. Good numbers continued to pass during the first half of September but the species then became scarce. An exceptionally late blonde-headed juvenile was wrecked by storms and picked up exhausted at Lanner Dec 19th. It was taken to R.S.P.C.A. where it was treated and seemed pefky, but unfortunately succumbed two weeks later. It was only the fifth ever inland record in Cornwall. RH.SMC.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 4 10 2 22 314 307 33 1 Rame Head: six between Apr 11th and May 29th and 17 between Jul 4th and Sept 18th with max of four last date. Pendeen: two May 7th and c.200 between Aug 9th and Oct 25th with max of 60 Aug 30th, 31 Aug 31st and 20 Sept 14th. Killigerran Head: one May 9th and 12 between Aug 17th and Sept 18th with max of five Aug 17th. Porthgwarra: two May 11th and 12th, one Jun 30th and c.99 between Jul 11th and Sept 15th with max of 18 Sept 2nd, 22 Sept 13th and 22 Sept 14th. Seaton: one May 30th. Bude: singles Jun 20th and Jul 17th. Cape Cornwall: singles Aug 12th, 18th and 30th. St. Ives: c.222 between Aug 12th and Oct 25th with max of 85 Aug 30th, 40 Sept 3rd and 23 Sept 18th. Newquay: c.49 between Aug 22nd and Sept 7th with max of 22 Aug 30th and 15 Sept 3rd. Sennen: one Aug 22nd. Trevose Head: ten between Aug 30th and Oct 22nd with max of five first date. Park Head: seven Aug 30th. Godrevy: 18 Aug 30th, five Sept 3rd. Rumps Point: 22 between Aug 30th and Sept 18th with max of ten first date and nine Sept 11th. Gurnards Head: one Aug 30th. Lizard: three Sept 7th. RMV Scillonian: three Sept 15th. Treen: one Sept 20th. Lands End: three Oct 1st. Lanner: one Dec 18th.

LONG-TAILED SKUA — Stercorarius longicaudus

Rare passage migrant. Rame Head: adult flew west Jun 6th. EJW, adult flew east Jun 9th. DGM. Pendeen: singles Aug 12th and 30th, two Aug 31st, one Sept 19th. JFR.SH. et al. Treen: juvenile west Aug 28th. DIMW. St. Ives: juvenile west Oct 25th. DJO.

Several other reports received lacked descriptive detail. The county mainland total advances to c.142. The St. Ives bird is the latest since 1985. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — — 3 4 2 19 79 31 4T — (56%)

Top sites: St. Ives — 54 (38%), Pendeen — 52 (37%), Newquay — seven, Porthgwarra

81 and Rame Head — five each.

GREAT SKUA — Catharacta skua

Passage migrant (mainly autumn).

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 — — 3 3 1 15 360 114 87 10 2 The only first winter report concerned one off Cape Cornwall Jan 5th.

Spring passage was light. Six birds were reported between Apr 13th and Jun 30th. Two were noted off Rame Head Apr 19th but the remainder were all singles.

Autumn passage commenced with one at Porthgwarra Jul 3rd but few were noted away from this site until the second week of August. It proved to be the heaviest movement since 1989 but the same caveat regarding duplication Aug 30th and Oct 25th applies here, as it has with other pelagic species. Regular watching at Porthgwarra produced the highest autumn total there since 1985. Only twelve were reported after the end of October. There were two at Rumps Point Nov 16th, two at Trevose Head Nov 17th, six off Lizard Nov 23rd and two off Newquay Dec 2nd.

Regular reports and maximum numbers (autumn): Porthgwarra: c. 129 between Jul 3rd and Oct 3rd with max of 22 Aug 11th and 12 Aug 12th. Pendeen: c. 104 between Jul 11th and Oct 27th with max of 35 Aug 30th and eleven Oct 25th. Rame Head: ten between Jul 30th and Sept 13th with max of four Aug 23rd. Newquay: 32 between Aug 3rd and Oct 25th with max of 15 Aug 30th. St. Ives: c. 189 between Aug 3rd and Oct 28th with max of 83 Aug 30th and 30 Oct 25th. Rumps Point: singles Aug 3rd and Sept 4th, five Sept 11th. Looe: two Aug 10th, seven Aug 12th and one Aug 30th. Cape Cornwall: 16 between Aug 12th and Oct 27th with max of five Aug 30th and six Oct 25th. Lands End: six singles between Aug 22nd and 29th. Killigerran Head: 21 Aug 22nd, three Aug 23rd, two Aug 29th. Lizard: two Aug 25th and singles Sept 3rd and 7th. Trevose Head: 12 Aug 30th and singles Sept 13th and 19th and Oct 28th. Godrevy: eleven Aug 30th and one Sept 3rd. Gurnards Head: five Aug 30th, three Oct 3rd. There were also singles off Park Head Aug 31st and Fowey Sept 11th plus six seen from the RMV Scillonian Sept 15th.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL — Larus melanocephalus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Another exceptional year with at least one bird every month of the year.

Spring passage was evident from early January to mid March with many birds spending several weeks at favoured localities. The last in spring was a first summer bird at Swanpool May 9th. There was an unprecedented influx in June involving eight birds, the first of which was a second summer individual in the strange surroundings of Witheybrook Marsh. Some birds moved quickly through but others lingered to the end of the year.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 29 24 20 4 1 8 14 18 13 18 15 26

82 Regular reports: Jan Feb Mar Apr 1Ma y Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Mounts Bay adult 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 2nd year 1 1 1 1 1 1 1st year 1 1 1 Drift Res adult 1 1 2 2 1 2nd year 1 1 1 1st year 1 Hayle Est adult 2 1 1 2 2 5 1 2nd year 1 1 1 1 1 1 1st year 1 1 1 1 Camel Est adult 2 1 3 2 1 4 2nd year 2 1 1 1 1st year 2 1 1 1 1 juvenile Newquay 1 adult 1 2 2nd year 1 1 1 1st year 3 Swanpool 1 adult 2 3 1 1 2nd year 1 1st year 1 1 1 1 St. Johns Lake 1 adult 2 1 1 1 1 2nd year 1 1 1st year 1 2 Tamar Est 1 1 1 adult 1 2nd year 1 1st year 1 Lynher Est adult 1 — 1 1 1 2nd vear - - - - 1 - -

Elsewhere: St. Ives: second winter Jan 1st, Feb 16th and Mar 6th/7th, adult Jan 26th. Siblyback Res: adult Jan 1st. Resicajeage: adult Jan 4th and Feb 1st, first winter Mar 17th, second winter Nov 6th. Tresillian: adult Jan 4th. Loe Pool: adults Jan 5th and Oct 22nd. Looe: adult Jan 5th, first winter Dec 28th. Tamar Lake: second winter Jan 15th, first winter Jan 24th. Argal Res: adult Jan 25th, two adults Nov 29th, second winter Dec 1st, adult Dec 26th. Gerrans Bay: adult Feb 1st. Sennen: second winter Feb 5th, adults Oct 9th and Dec 25th. Seaton: first winter Feb 7th. Fowey Est: first winter Feb 15th. Par: first winter Feb 16th, adult Sept 26th and Oct 28th (a poor year here). Cot Valley: first winter Mar 5th. Helston: first winter Mar 7th, adult Dec 5th. Witney brook Marsh: second summer Jun 5th. Colliford Res: adult Jun 20th. Stithians Res: second winter Jul 23rd. Crowdy Res: juvenile Aug 9th. Lizard: adult Aug 11th.

83 Killigerran Head: adult Aug 18th. Rame Head: second winter Sept 12th, adult Sept 13th. Nanquidno: adult Oct 31st. Bude: adult Nov 16th, first winter Dec 29th. Maenporth: adult Nov 29th, two adults Dec 12th, second winter Dec 12th. College Res: adult and second winter Dec 5th. It is no longer possible to identify individuals amongst this huge collection of records.

There is considerable mobility between certain groups of sites notably Mounts Bay/Drift Res/Hayle Est, Camel Est/Newquay, Tamar Est/Lynher Est/St. Johns Lake and Swaapool/Maenporth/College Res/Argal Res/Stithians Res. However it is not inconceivable that one hundred or more birds were involved in this years' sightings.

Peak counts included six different birds on the Camel Est in January, at least six birds at Newquay in March and at least eight at Camel Est Jul 31st-Sept 18th.

84 Squacco Heron at Towednack Mark Coller

Great Grey Shrike showing characteristics of one of the Eastern races Ren Hathway

FRANKLIN'S GULL - Larus pipixcan

Rare vagrant. Crowdy Res: adult Aug 2nd. DC.JMR.

The fourth county mainland record.

Accepted by BBRC. LITTLE GULL — Larus minutus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. None overwintered from 1991 and only four were noted in the first winter period — singles at Mounts Bay Jan 8th and Feb 6th, Helford Est Feb 1st and Newquay Feb 9th.

A light spring movement involving c.17 birds was noted Mar 4th-Apr 28th. Autumn passage commenced with an early bird at Looe Jul 23rd and ended with one off Looe Nov 16th. With only 29 birds reported, it was the lightest autumn movement since 1984. Sea-watching, uncharacteristically, produced very few.

There was none in the second winter period.

Overall the poorest year since 1982.

Approximately monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 3 12 6 - - 1 6 8 10 4 — Regular reports and maximum numbers: Mounts Bay: first winters Jan 8th, Feb 6th-29th, adult Mar 16th-Apr 2nd, first winter Sept 25th. Newquay: first winter Feb 19th and Mar 14th, second winter Mar 5th-24th and Apr 27th/28th, adult Mar 8th, first winter Nov 11th. Hayle Est: adult Mar 4th-22nd, second winter Mar 7th-24th, first winter Mar 4th-24th, one Apr 21st, first winter Sept 16th. Devoran: first winter Mar 18th-23rd, second winter Mar 23rd. St. Johns Lake: one Mar 30th, adult Apr 23rd. Tamar Est: adult Apr 16th, two first winters Aug 26th, another Nov 8th. Lynher Est: adult Apr 26th, two adults Aug 6th-17th with one to Sept 13th. Looe: second winter Jul 18th-23rd, adult Oct 31st-Nov 7th. St. Ives: eleven west between Sept 30th and Nov 16th with max of three Sept 30th and Oct 15th. There was also an adult at Drift Res Mar 16th, a first winter at Portwrinkle Aug 11th, a first summer at Killigerran Head Aug 22nd, first winter at Rame Head Sept 11th, one at Crowdy Res Sept 28th and two at Porthgwarra Oct 3rd.

SABINE'S GULL - Larus sabini Scarce passage migrant (mainly September/October). An early bird was seen on the RMV Scillonian pelagic but subsequent passage, apart from Aug 30th, proved unexceptional. The total of 25 birds is distorted by duplication and the actual number of birds involved is probably nearer 16.

Approximately monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 19 5 1 — — RMV Scillonian: one Aug 8th. B. Lamorna: adult Aug 23rd. DIMW. Trevose Head: adult Aug 30th. PAM. Newquay: adult Aug 30th. TMC.SMC. Godrevy: two adults Aug 30th. DE.

85 St. Ives: five adults Aug 30th, adult Sept 3rd. DC.SGR. et al. Pendeen: six adults Aug 30th, two adults Aug 31st and three Sept 18th. RMRJ.TD.JFR. et al. Rumps Point: adult Sept 11th. EG. Sennen: adult Oct 14th. MSS.MJW. Note the gradual increase on Aug 30th as birds passed progressively more westerly headlands.

The county mainland total advances to c.893 (involving at least 713 birds). Top sites: St. Ives — 541 (61%), Pendeen — 136, Newquay — 91, Cape Cornwall and Godrevy — 18 each and Rumps Point — 15.

The Lamorna bird was a site first whilst the Trevose and Sennen birds were the first there since 1983 and 1967 respectively.

Several other reports omitted owing to lack of description.

BONAPARTE'S GULL - Larus Philadelphia

Rare vagrant. Fowey/: first winter Mar 8th. SCM. Camel Est: adult winter plumage Mar 29th-31st. PAM.SMC. et al. St. Johns Lake: adult summer plumage Apr 22nd-30th. SCM. et al. Swanpool: adult summer plumage Apr 26th-May 1st. JFR. et al. Another excellent year with four apparently different birds. Accepted by BBRC.

The county mainland total advances to c.28. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 6 4 10 3 1 — — — — 2 1 1 Top sites: Mounts Bay — eight, St. Ives and Falmouth — four, St. Johns Lake — two, and ten other sites with one each.

Some records probably relate to birds returning to one site in successive years, notably an adult to St. Ives 1968-1971.

BLACK-HEADED GULL — Larus ridibundus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred at Stithians Reservoir from 1967 to 1969. Has bred at Crowdy Reservoir since 1976 and at Colliford Reservoir since 1990.

The January total was about the average of recent years but there was a notable early spring influx in February.

Breeding was reported from the two additional sites and the first return birds were 82 at Maer Lake Jun 29th. Autumn passage was heavy during August but dwindled through September. From October numbers again rose to average counts at the end of the year.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 14159 2786 2599 2038 998 2791 8249 17025 12019 14396 18928 20260

Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 1551 3086 584 463 62 471 2120 4170 1687 1831 2872 1404 St. Johns Lake 2009 3644 839 1000 75 574 1247 4550 2828 4438 6937 5510 Lynher Est 1111 1233 297 106 277 1000 1796 3000 1922 1355 2845 1918

86 Tresillian 245 378 — 23 9 203 419 508 370 464 1400 120 Truro River 750 275 46 25 32 51 550 950 750 400 500 450 Devoran 500 500 105 37 21 137 600 450 600 650 600 800 Hayle Est 613 1710 80 22 40 32 — — 312 880 1005 2380 Godrevy 1000 895 54 2 Camel Est 5000 7000 273 44 11 185 962: >567 1982 2300 1849 2000 Mael Lake 500 - 1 — — 82 — — — 1000 1000 —

There were also 2500 at Newquay Feb 24th, 1200 at Tamar Lakes Dec 12th and 3000 at Par Dec 13th but no more than 500 at any other site.

Little information was forthcoming from Mounts Bay which supports large numbers in winter, spring and late autumn.

Breeding was reported as follows: Crowdy Res: 36 pairs present May 20th. 209 adults with 27 juveniles Jun 21st. Colliford Res: at least 40 nests counted by DAC May 30th and 82 young present Jul 7th. However JAdEM estimated 60-90 pairs here and observed that there had been a definite shift from Crowdy Reservoir due to loss of suitable breeding habitat.

RING-BILLED GULL — Larus delawarensis

Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. After a record total in 1991 there was a slight reduction this year. Six birds overwintered from 1991, three at Par, two at Hayle and one at St. Johns Lake. Up to fifteen new birds may have been involved in sightings throughout the first winter and spring periods and at least one bird was seen in each of the summer months at Par. Up to seven new birds arrived between October and the end of the year with three at Par and one at Hayle remaining into 1993.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 11 11 15 7 3 1 1 1 1 1 3 6

Regular reports: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Hayle Est possibly two new birds. LPW.DSF.JH.NJP.JFR. et. al adult 2 2 2 1 1 1st vear 1 1 1 Par possibly five new birds. KP.GRW.MW.PHA.LAS.FMS. adult 2 2 2 1 1

87 2nd year 1 1 1 1 — — 1 1st year 1 1 1 2 1 — — — — 1 1 1 St. Johns Lake possibly two new birds. RWG.SC.SM.DC. et al. adult 1 — 1 1 2 nd year — 1 1 1st year 1 Camel Est possibly three new birds. JH.DIJ. et al. adult 1 1 1 2nd year 1 1st year — 1 Swanpool possibly three new birds. JH.JMW.BLW.TMC.JSG. et al. 2nd year 1 - 1st year 1 I 2 2 1 - Elsewhere: Drift Res: first winter Jan 11th. B. Ruan Lanihorne: adult Jan 13th. SMC. Newquay: adult Feb 3rd-13th, first winter Feb 19th and Mar 7th/8th. SMC. Mounts Bay: first winter Mar 29th, adult Dec 15th. DSF. et al. Lynher Est: two first winters Mar 14th. SCM.SM. The 23 potentially 'new' birds take the county mainland to c.192 — all since 1979, but this total is clouded by individuals which annually return to winter territories.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 36 33 43 18 5 1 — 2 2 6 14 32

Age breakdown on first arrival: adult — 50 (26%), 'sub-adult' — three, third winter — five, second summer — two, second winter — 29, first summer — seven, first winter - 96 (50%).

Top sites: Hayle/Copperhouse — 39, Mounts Bay — 28, Par — 26, Swanpool — 19, St. Johns/Millbrook lakes — 16, Camel Est — ten.

COMMON GULL - Larus canus Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. Good numbers overwintered from 1991 and there was a noticeable spring movement in February. Most moved quickly through with very few in April and the last was at Camel Est May 18th. The first return bird was at Newquay Jun 21st but no large flocks arrived until November.

ApproximatJan Febe monthlMar y Apcountr yMa totaly : Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1097 2431 316 13 3 1 6 13 13 66 424 .580 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aue Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 5 167 5 — — — 4 1 — — 7 6 St. Johns Lake 160 1000 100 10 — — — 4 3 8 78 148 Lynher Est 114 317 200 2 — — — 4 1 7 38 100 Ruan Lanihorne 15 160 12 Camel Est 400 780 — — 1 — 2 4 8 38 120 153

Other good counts included 100 at Siblyback Res Jan 1st, 130 at Colliford Res Jan 19th, 100 at Par Nov 13th and 100 at Fowey Est Dec 27th. The congregation of 1000 at St. Johns Lake is the largest there since 1973.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus fuscus

Resident. Breeds in low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

88 Two pairs bred successfully at Diggories Island, Bedruthan Steps whilst a pair at nearby Park Head bred, but failed to raise any young for the third successive year. Single pairs were also noted during the breeding season at The Sisters, Cligga Head and Godrevy.

Good numbers overwintered from 1991 but there was a huge increase of spring migrants in February. Many birds remained for several weeks at the main centres with a dramatic reduction from late March. A few birds summered and there were the customary large roosting flocks on Bodmin Moor in late summer and early autumn. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 604 2319 2354 128 23 9 25 963 678 2729 1244 1913

Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Lynher Est 15 148 80 20 3 — 12 22 8 6 21 92 Hayle Est 450 1270 1000 49 — — — 84 12 48 81 561 Godrevy 83 129 85 16 Gannel Est — 290 460 — — — — 7 — — — 3 Camel Est 39 679 447 23 2 2 4 102 33 22 19 167 Colliford Res 15 25 2 2 — — 7 800 217 2000 500 1100 Other maxima included 140 at Looe Feb 15th and 150 at Ruan Lanihorne Mar 13th.

The 2000 at Colliford is the third largest flock ever in the county. Birds showing characteristics of the South Scandinavian race 'L.f. intermedius' were reported from: Porthpean: three adults Jan 9th. GJC.

Birds showing characteristics of the North Scandinavian race 'L.f. fuscus' were reported from: Hayle Est: adult Mar 2nd. FHH and Oct 26th. DJB. Rame Head: adult Sept 13th. DRC. Looe: adult Dec 28th. DC.

HERRING GULL — Larus argentatus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. There has been a decline in the population of this species, not only locally, but also nationally. The reason for this decrease is not fully understood.

Breeding was reported from the south coast only at Penryn where at least eight pairs nested on rooves. CLB. Parts of the north coast were well surveyed. ML counted 233 nests between Trevose Head and Ranie Point whilst CM's efforts overlapped to a degree. He found ten pairs at Trevose Head, 14 pairs on Merope Rock, two pairs on Inner Quies and 30/60 nests on Gulland. He also located a total of 94 nests (66 of which fledged young) between Porth Mear and Pentiresteps, Bedruthan. Similarly, in the St. Agnes to Godrevy area there was some duplication. RJP located two nests at Ralphs Cupboard, 17 at Western Cove, 25 on Samphire Island, five on Crane Island and 42 between Deadmans Cove and Godrevy Point. Meanwhile, at the western end of this stretch of coastline PAR counted 94 nests between Godrevy Island and Fishing Cove. Of 96 juveniles counted only 50% survived.

No change in status was reported this year but peak counts were slightly down on last year.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4524 2307 3250 2190 1375 1328 913 2421 2U6 2488 3072 1577

89 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 51 106 100 185 61 176 92 95 159 115 268 58 St. Johns Lake 178 369 274 404 172 406 208 471 569 301 220 370 Lynher Est 61 160 168 15 116 133 176 153 184 125 176 81 Helford Est 41 111 170 148 62 185 63 65 92 — 52 42 Hayle Est 275 78 343 — 383 194 - 770 400 830 95 330 Godrevy 495 453 373 230 Newquay 950 800 1600 — 212 — - 200 — — — 250 Camel Est 121 186 194 683 35 — - 434 645 447 1130 300

Other maxima included 1500 at Looe Jan 5th, 600 at Drift Res Oct 20th, and 500 at Par Nov 13th. Unusual was an albinistic bird at Hayle Est May 2nd. RJH.

YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING GULL - Larus argentatus/cachinanns

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Birds showing characteristics of one or other of the yellow-legged races of Herring Gull (which are considered separate species by some authorities) were reported as follows: Looe: adult Jan 1st DH, first winter Jan 5th. SCM.EJW. Gerrans Bay: adult Jan 18th. JFB. Lynher Est: first winter Apr 3rd, adult Nov 21st. SCM.EJW. Hayle Est: adult May 7th-9th. DSF. et al. Sennen: adult May 26th. LPW. Other reports received were not supported by descriptive detail.

The county mainland total advances to c.44 — all but two since 1983. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 8 3 4 1 3 — — 4 4 7 5 5

Age breakdown on first arrival: first winter — eight, second winter — one, second summer — one, third winter — three, fourth winter — one, adult — 30 (68%).

Top sites: Looe — eight, St. John/Millbrook Lakes — seven, Colliford Res — five and Par — four.

ICELAND GULL — Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Two overwintered from 1991 and up to six new birds arrived January — March. Several long-stayers caused confusion by wandering from site to site. Only one in the second winter period. Approximate monthly county total: \ Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4 5 4 2 2 2 1

East Looe River: second winter from 1991 to Mar 21st. KP.JHF.SCM. et al. Drift Res: second winter from 1991 noted intermittently to Apr 26th at least. FP.JFR. et al. First winter Mar 6th-14th. GH. Par: adult Jan 19th. JFB.JH. Hayle Est: first winter intermittently Jan 25th-Mar 14th. LPW.FHH. et al. Second winter (believed same as Drift bird) intermittently Mar 3rd-Apr 12th and May 2nd-Jun 29th. JFR. et al. Mullion: first winter Feb 3rd. ARP. Mounts Bay: second winter (the Drift bird) intermittently Feb 13th-Mar 19th and Apr 23rd. DSF.BP.JFR. et al. : second winter Feb 15th and May 13th-Jun 1st. RS.DC.SCM.

90 Reskajeaee: first winter Mar 1st. SFJ.GHT. Millbrook Lake: second winter (presumed same as Cawsand bird) Apr 19th. GG.IG. Penlee Point: second winter (presumed same as Cawsand bird) Apr 29th. KP. Camel Est: first winter Dec 9th. JH. The county mainland total advances to c.272.

They Hayle Est bird is the second latest ever in the county.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 77 61 50 39 12 1 — — — 3 1 28 Age breakdown on first arrival: first winter — 117 (43%), first summer — 13, second winter — 62, second summer — four, third winter — 18, fourth winter — two, adult — 44, immature — eight, not aged — four.

Top sites: Mounts Bay — 61, Falmouth — 49, Hayle Est — 34, St. Ives — 17, Looe — 13.

GLAUCOUS GULL — Larus hyperboreus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. With only five in the first winter/spring and one in autumn, 1992 proved to be the poore year since 1973 for this species. Approximately monthlv countv total: Jan Feb Mar A May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 3 2 r 1 Hayle Est: second winter Jan 26th-Feb 8th. EJC.RB. et al and Apr 11th FHH, second summer Aug 1st. SGR. Mounts Bay: first winter Feb 13th. B. Camel Est: first winter Feb 23rd and Mar 7th. SMC.DLJ. Gannel Est: first winter Mar 7th-13th. SMC. Penlee Point: first or second summer Apr 19th and 21st. LACT.EHW. The county mainland total advances to c.406 since 1930. The Hayle Est. August bird is the earliest ever in autumn.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 133 90 51 23 14 3 1 3 5 13 28 42 (33%) (22%) Age breakdown on first arrival: first winter — 181 (45%), first summer — 13, second winter — 83, second summer — three, third winter — 20, third summer — two, fourth winter — seven, adult — 41, 'immature' — 23, not aged — 33.

Top sites: Mounts Bay — 100, Hayle Est — 56, Falmouth — 49, St. Ives — 44, Porthgwarra, Loe Pool and Newquay — 13 each.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus marinus

Resident Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported by CM from Park Head (one pair), Gulland (4/5 pairs) and Porth Mear (one pair). CW counted two main groups of 40/50 birds each at Cligga Head and PAR counted nine visible nests containing a total of twelve juveniles at Godrevy Island. ML located four nests at The Moules and single pairs at Varley Head and Bounds Cliff. Low numbers were reported from most traditional areas throughout the year but there were good counts at Looe in both winter periods.

91 Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 909 550 245 145 118 147 144 464 386 253 677 343 Regular counts and maximum numbers: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tamar Est 13 9 15 7 12 16 7 18 26 22 10 20 St. Johns Lake 21 58 14 37 7 51 16 40 42 31 6 106 Lynher Est 7 31 40 10 7 18 12 20 50 39 65 37 Looe 450 — — — — — - 220 — — 500 — Ruan Lanihorne 95 12 12 24 33 26 74 23 87 38 24 100 Hayle Est 150 154 18 — 39 7 - 42 48 94 7 42 Gwithian 64 77 59 38 Newquay 8 80 18 — — — - 55 — — — — Camel Est 62 120 66 22 10 14 31 42 120 26 62 119

No other site attracted more than 35 at any one time.

KITTIWAKE - Rissa tridactyla

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season reports were received from the following areas: Bounds Cliff — 158 nesting birds; Trevone — 50/80 pairs; Trevose Head — 100 pairs; Ralphs Cupboard — 192 pairs; Mullion Island — 34 pairs; The Vro, Mullion — nine pairs.

This species was grossly under-reported during 1992. Apart from a good count off St. Ives in October, passage was the lightest since 1970, with a noticeable lack of data for the first nine months of the year. Regular reports and maximum numbers:' Rame Head: 1009 west and 383 east between February and the end of the year. Rumps Point: 1901 west between Sept 18th and Nov 26th. Pendeen: 1755 west between Oct 16th and 29th, 1000 per hour west Oct 23rd. St. Ives; 7924 west in ten hours Oct 23rd. Trevose Head: 712 west in three hours Nov 17th. Lizard: 700 per hour west Nov 23rd.

SANDWICH TERN - Sterna sandvicensis

Passage migrant. The first in spring was one at Hayle Est Mar 23rd with only five more before the end of the month — the latest spring arrival since 1973. Numbers throughout spring were generally low and the last were 13 at Mounts Bay Jun 18th. Return passage commenced with one at the same site Jul 1st and continued to the end of October. The last were two at Treen Oct 30th. The majority passed through Aug 14th-19th, Aug 29th-31st and Sept llth-21st.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 6 234 51 17 77 390 510 34 — — Regular reports and maximum numbers: Hayle Est: noted Mar 23rd-May 4th and Jul 12th-Oct 17th with max of 23 Apr 14th and 52 Aug 29th. Mounts Bay: noted Mar 24th-Jun 18th and Jul lst-Sept 26th with max of 13 Jun 18th. Par: noted Apr 8th-18th and Jul 19th-Sept 28th with max of 19 Apr 20th and 25 Sept 8th. St. Ives: noted Apr 12th-May 9th with max of 25 Apr 19th. C.175 west between Aug 3rd and Oct 14th with max of 80 Aug 30th. Rame Head: c.61 between Apr 17th and May 9th with max of 19 Apr 19th and c.67 between Jul 27th and Sept 11th with max of 51 last date.

92 Killigerran Head: 32 Apr 20th. Porthgwarra: 31 west between Jul 25th and Aug 30th. Camel Est: noted Apr 15th-May 20th and Jul 20th-Aug 19th with max of 24 Jul 31st. St. Johns Lake: 35 Aug 17th. Newquay: c.55 west between Aug 22nd and Sept 13th. Pendeen: c.89 west between Aug 30th and Sept 18th with max of 39 last date. Rumps Point: 56 Sept 13th, 47 Sept 18th.

Unusual was a flock of 43 at Lynher Est in August.

ROSEATE TERN — Sterna dougallii Scarce passage migrant. Hayle Est: one May 2nd. RJH. Trevose Head: one fishing off Booby's Bay with an Arctic Tern May 17th. SMC. Mount's Bay: two Jun 28th, with one to 29th. DSF.JFR. Sennen: one Aug 23rd. DIMW. Par: juvenile Sept 5th. GRW.MW.EJC.RJL.

The county mainland total advances to c.764 — all but two since 1951.

MonthlJan yFe breakdownb Mar Ap: r May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — — 32 116 32 124 145 274 40 — — 1 (36%)

Top sites: St. Ives — 399 (52%), Hayle Est/Porthkidney Sands — 196 (25%), Newquay — 28, Par — 26, Porthgwarra and Mounts Bay — 22, St. Johns Lake — 21.

COMMON TERN — Sterna hirundo

Passage migrant. Like Sandwich Tern, very late arriving with the first three at Helford Est. Apr 20th and only six more before the end of the month. Apart from Rame Head and Bude, low numbers were reported throughout May and June with the last at Par Jun 29th. Return passage apparently commenced with one at Mounts Bay Jul 14th and ended with one off St. Ives Oct 2nd. Passage of birds displaced by the gales in late August, was heavy and there were several good counts in mid September. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 9 97 35 7 359 197 1 — — Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: 52 May 13th and nine west between Aug 28th and Sept 11th. Bude: noted May 14th-Jul 28th with max of 15 first date. Hayle Est: noted Jun 9th-Sept 22nd with max of 30 Aug 20th. Mounts Bay: noted Jun 18th-Aug 18th with max of 14 Jun 28th and 20 Aug 18th. Par: noted Jun 29th-Sept 6th with max of 20 last date. Lynher Est: 24 in August. Newquay: c.77 west between Aug 22nd and Sept 13th with max of 54 Aug 30th. St. Ives: c. 168 west between Aug 25th and Oct 2nd with max of 74 Aug 30th and 21 Sept 4th. Pendeen: c.44 west between Aug 30th and Sept 7th with max of 26 Aug 31st. Rumps Point: 86 Sept 11th and singles Sept 18th, 20th and 29th.

There was no more than six at any other site.

Inland records: Tamar Lakes: six May 21st, four Aug 9th, three Sept 6th with one to 12th. Porth Res: two Aug 8th. Drift Res: one Aug 31st, five Sept 6th.

93 ARCTIC TERN — Sterna paradisaea

Uncommon passage migrant. The first of another light spring passage were two at Porthkidney Sands Apr 27th — the only report for the month. In May there were singles at Looe and Trevose Head, and two at Loe Pool and Bude. Passage concluded with seven at Portwrinkle Jun 6th and two at Par the following day. The first return birds were two at Mounts Bay Jun 29th. Passage was very light until late August when, like the preceding species, fair numbers were seen on sea-watches. The last were two at St. Ives Oct 2nd (an early departure date).

ApproximatJan Febe monthlMar y Apcountr yMa totaly : Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 2 6 11 2 72 33 2 — — Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: 29 noted between Jul 30th and Sept 18th with max of eight Aug 31st and 16 Sept 11th. St. Ives: 37 between Aug 12th and Oct 2nd with max of 22 Aug 30th. Lynher Est: noted Aug 17th-Sept 11th with max of five last date. Godrevy: six Aug 30th. Pendeen: eleven Aug 30th.

Up to three were also reported from Looe, Bude, Porthgwarra, Hayle Est., Camel Est, Newquay and St. Johns Lake.

Inland: Tamar Lakes: one Sept 6th-12th.

4Commie' terns: Birds not specifically identified but either Common or Arctic Tern were reported as follows: Swanpool: four May 11th. Rame Head: 39 east May 23rd, eleven east Jun 27th. Looe: 15 west Aug 22nd. Pendeen: eight Aug 30th, 13 Sept 3rd. St. Ives: 197 Aug 30th, 26 Sept 4th. Newquay: seven Sept 3rd.

LITTLE TERN — Sterna albifrons Uncommon passage migrant. Six in April/May constituted the poorest spring passage since 1968 and there was little improvement in autumn when a mere 15 moved through between Jul 20th and Oct 3rd. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 4 2 — 2 3 6 4 — — Mounts Bay: one Apr 20th. GRW.MW. Par: one Apr 20th, two May 9th with one to 10th. GRW.MW.DJ. Hayle Est: two Apr 26th. DSF. One Sept 21st-Oct 1st, five Oct 3rd. SMC.RF.KN.BG. et al. Camel Est: singles Jul 20th-25th and Sept 8th. SMC.JH. Bude: one Jul 28th. FHCK. Looe: one Aug 20th. RWG. Newquay: adult west Aug 30th. SMC. St. Johns Lake: one Aug 31st. JH. Lynher Est: three Sept 5th, two Sept 13th. AB.PB.SM.DC. Pendeen: one Sept 22nd. B.

94 BLACK TERN — Chlidonias niger Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Spring passage consisted of one at Tamar Lake May 25th per FHCK — the lightest immigration since 1985. The first in autumn was at St. Johns Lake Aug 8th. RWG. There followed a light movement with few affected by the storms at the end of August. Last was one which lingered at Loe Pool until Oct 24th. Other reports: Tamar Lakes: two Aug 9th with one to 11th. DU. RMV Scillonian pelagic: two Aug 10th. B. Hayle Est: one Aug 22nd, four Aug 24th. DSF. Newquay: two Aug 22nd, one Aug 23rd, three Sept 3rd and singles Sept 13th and 22nd. EJC.TH.RJL.MT. et al. Lynher Est: one Aug 22nd. RWG. Crowdy Res: singles Sept 3rd and Oct 3rd. WJW.JSH. Pendeen: one Sept 14th, five Sept 18th. EGG.GGG. et al. Camel Est: one Sept 17th-19th. DU.HGM.ML. et al. St. Ives: c.40 west between Sept 18th and Oct 4th with max of 25 first date. GR.SGR. et al. Loe Pool: singles Sept 19th and Oct 10th-24th. JSG.EGe.ND. Stithians Res: singles Sept 21st and Oct 14th. RF.FHH. Long Rock Pool: two Sept 24th. KN. Colliford Res: one Sept 27th. EJW.

The 25 at St. Ives was the highest single day count there since 1985.

WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN — Chlidonias leucopterus

Rare vagrant.

1991 record: The Tamar Est. bird accepted by BBRC.

COMMON GUILLEMOT - Uria aalge (Formerly Guillemot) Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season reports were received from the following localities (peak counts are illustrated). Long Island: 130 birds Jun 6th. Short Island: 30 birds Jun 11th. The Sisters: 70 on ledges Apr 12th. Lye Rock: 20 Jun 6th. Bounds Cliff: four sitting birds. Com Head: 29 sitting birds. The Moules: 60 birds on sea Jun 2nd. Stepper Point to Trevone: 40 pairs. Trevose Head: 26 adults -I- five chicks (only nine birds in 1991). Gulland Rock: c.150 pairs Jun 8th. Bawden Rocks: 80 Jun 27th. Trevaunance Point to Newdown Head: 50 on ledges. Samphire Island: 17 birds. Navax Point to Hudder Cove: 60 birds. Gull Rock, Nare Head: 40 nests Apr 19th.

All but the last site are on the north coast. The counts indicate a generally stable population. As usual specific counts of Guillemot outside the breeding season were few and far between. EJW on his regular seawatching visits to Rame Head identified 52 flying east and 207

95 flying west in 99 hours between February and December. Elsewhere there was no single count in excess of 50.

RAZORBILL — Alca torda

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding season reports were received from the following localities (peak counts are illustrated). Long Island: 20 Jun 6th. Short Island: ten Jun 6th. The Sisters: 44 on ledges Jun 6th. Bounds Cliff to Trevose Head: 58 sitting birds. Trevone: 12 on ledges May 29th. Trevose Head: six pairs + three chicks. Gulland Rock: 100/200 pairs nesting Jun 8th. Quies: 150 on ledges, possibly breeding Jun 9th. Bawden Rocks: 80 Jun 27th. Trevaunance Point to Newdown Head: 50 birds in five groups spread over a large area. Samphire Island to Western Cove: nine pairs. Deadmans Cove to Navax Point: 22 nests. Gull Rock, Nare Head: nine birds Jul 2nd.

Like the preceding species specific counts were sparse. EJW counted five flying east and 165 west in 99 hours between February and December off Rame Head.

Elsewhere 600 flew west at St. Ives Oct 25th and 100 were noted off Newquay Nov 2nd.

Auk sp. (Common Guillemot/) Few reports received outside of autumn migration. St. Ives: 971 west between Apr 12th and 17th. 2500 per hour Oct 15th and 16500 in ten hours Oct 23rd. Pendeen: 1000 in three hours Oct 3rd, 500 in one hour Oct 10th, 568 in one hour Oct 16th and 1720 in Vh hours Oct 26th — all west. Trevose Head: 2152 west in two hours Nov 17th. Newquay: 1142 west in one hour Dec 3rd.

BLACK GUILLEMOT - Cepphus grylle Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Godrevy: one in summer plumage Jun 8th/9th. PAR.

Midsummer records in consecutive years.

The county mainland total advances to 42.

MonthlJan yFe breakdownb Mar Ap: r May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 7 4 4 5 — 2 — — 3 4 4 5 4 Top sites: St. Ives — 13, Falmouth — nine, Sennen and Trevose Head — two each.

LITTLE AUK - Alle alle

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Occasional * wrecks'. A poor year with only three in the first winter and six in the autumn and second winter periods.

Newquay: one west Feb 13th. SMC. Camel Est: one Feb 15th. ADD. Rame Head: one west Feb 29th. EJW. Gurnards Head: one west Oct 3rd. EGG.GGG.

96 St. Ives: one west Nov 16th. EGG.GGG. Rumps Point: three west Nov 26th. ML. Pentire, Polzeath: one wrecked Nov 26th was taken into care but died overnight. DL.

1991 record:

Newquay: one west Nov 13th. TMC.

The county mainland total advances to c. 1134 since 1930. Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec MonthlJan y Febreakdownb : 74 123 32 2 — 1 — — 3 60 353 485 (31%) (43%)

Top sites: St. Ives — 527 (47%), Porthgwarra — 217, Falmouth — 76, Mullion/Loe Pool — 44, Newquay — 31.

PUFFIN — Fratercula artica

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. There has been a substantial reduction in the breeding population in Cornwall during the last thirty years. At Lye Rock for instance, 3000 or more birds could be seen in the 1940's and 600 or more was not uncommon in the 1960's. As recently as 1970, 60/70 birds were still present there, but now there are none. Former breeding sites at Trevone and Gull Rock, Nare Head are similarly deserted.

Recent figures suggest that the remaining small population is just viable.

In 1992 breeding season reports were received from the following colonies (with comparative data for 1986-1991): Figures represent maximum number of single birds seen at, or near the colonv: D = present, not counted. 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 198i Long and Short Islands 15 15 13 17 30 20 P The Moules 30 17 12 6 7 11 12 Bawden Rocks 4 Gulland Rock 1 The Brissons 7 2 — — — — 3 Unfortunately, breeding was not confirmed at any of these sites. Elsewhere: Portwrinkle: two Mar 13th, two west Oct 3rd. St. Ives: singles Apr 17th and Sept 22nd, four Oct 15th. Pendeen: singles May 11th and Sept 22nd. Rame Head: four west Apr 18th, one east May 30th. Lamorna: one Jun 1st. Porthgwarra: 55 west between Jul 3rd and Aug 6th (51 in July, four in August) with max of 14 Jul 20th and Jul 26th. Newquay: two Oct 25th. Since 1964 a total of c.2132 has been reported away from breeding areas. Top sites are Porthgwarra — 1269 (60%), Lizard — 253, St. Ives — 240, Rame Head — 90.

FERAL PIGEON/ROCK DOVE - Columba livia

Resident. Breeds. Pure Rock Doves may still survive on some of the more remote parts of the north coast but they would probably prove indistinguishable from ferral stock. Typically, the majority of observations derived from the north coast where it remains a numerous cliff-nesting species. Approximately 50 breed at and up to 20 regularly roost at Crantock.

97 The highest count at Trevose Head this year was 75 Oct 31st whilst 50/70 were resident at Wadebridge. The maximum elsewhere were 40/50 resident at Saltash Bridge.

STOCK DOVE — Columba oenas

Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. No reports of change in status this year.

Breeding was proven at Quarry (5/8 pairs) and at Davidstow Airfield (one pair with another unsuccessful). There were several other breeding season records, mainly from Bodmin Moor. A flock of 150 gathered on stubbles at Higher , near Lostwithiel Jan 3rd but there was no more than ten at any other locality until September.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with 20 at Penlee Point Oct 3rd and ended with three at St. Keverne Nov 15th. It was a light movement with the majority passing through Oct 11th/12th and 30/31st.

Maximum numbers: Rame Head: 14 Oct 11th. Porthgwarra: a total of 35 between Oct 11th and 30th with max of 21 first date. Bosistow, St. Levan: 33 Oct 11th, 23 Oct 12th. Pentire: 42 Oct 31st (outnumbering Wood Pigeon by 7:1 on the day!). Walmsley Sanctuary: 24 Nov 15th.

Second winter observations were minimal.

WOOD PIGEON — Columba palumbus Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. No reports of any change in status — it remains abundant and widespread.

More observations were received for the first half of the year including five triple-figure flocks. Autumn passage apparently commenced Oct 3rd and ended Nov 15th. The usual parties of up to 250 were noted in the second winter period.

Maximum numbers: Sheviock: 147 Jan 25th. Siblyback: 103 Feb 1st. Millbrook: 150 Feb 3rd, 200 Nov 29th. Great Grogley Downs: 220 Mar 21st. St. John: 100 Apr 25th. Rame Head/Penlee Point: 400 Oct 3rd with 200 to Oct 31st, 270 Nov 7th. Porthgwarra: 150 Oct 30th. Sennen: 570 Oct 31st. Marazion: 120 Oct 31st. Mawgan Porth: 200 Nov 4th. Lynher Est: 250 Nov 20th. Wadebridge: 130 Dec 3rd.

COLLARED DOVE — Streptopelia decaocto

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. This species was first noted in Cornwall in 1959 and its' population built up to a peak in the late 1970's and early 1980's. Subsequently there has been a decline in some areas. The reason for the reduction is not fully understood but may be related to the species' removal from the list of birds protected by law coupled with a diminution in cereal crop farming.

98 No reports of change in status were notified in 1992. The species remains widely, but sparsely distributed. It was noted as common around RAF St. Mawgan and St. Merryn with breeding at many sites.

Only small parties were reported in both winter periods. Spring passage was apparent from Apr 21st to May 26th but away from the Sennen area numbers remained low. Autumn passage was noted from Aug 25th to Nov 1st but flocks were smaller than the recent average.

Maximum numbers: Long Rock: ten Feb 29th, 32 Oct 4th, 26 Nov 1st. Sennen: 24 Apr 21st, 32 May 4th. Skewjack: 29 May 4th, ten May 14th (Presumed same as Sennen birds). Mullion: 18 Sept 30th. : 25 Oct 8th.

TURTLE DOVE — Streptopelia turtur

Passage migrant. Bred in 1981 and probably in 1978 and 1977. Summering birds are not unusual but winter records are rare. Spring passage commenced with one at Skewjack May 6th and ended with one at Penlee Point Jul 1st. Of the 38 birds reported, 23 (61%) arrived May 14th-18th. The first in autumn was one at Saltash Aug 25th but there was no more until singles at Lizard and Lands End Sept 18th. A total of 26 birds passed through with Vi arriving Sept 27th. The last was one at Predannack Oct 31st. However, one at , Hayle Dec 27th was the latest ever county mainland record. LPW. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec - — — — 27 10 1 1 15 10 — 1 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Sennen: four May 14th, two May 15th and singles May 25th, Jun 26th and Sept 29th-Oct 8th. Landulph: three May 15th. Kenidjack: two May 18th and Jun 1st, one Sept 21 st-29th. Lizard: three Sept 27th. St. Levan: three Sept 27th.

Two were also at Bodmin May 14th, Porthgwarra May 17th, St. Merryn in June, Pencarrow Head Jun 12th, Lanteglos Jun 17th, Paul, Penzance Sept 20th and Lands End Sept 27th but all other reports concerned singles.

COMMON CUCKOO — Cuculus canorus (Formerly Cuckoo)

Summer resident (declining). Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly spring). The first arrival was at Rame Head Apr 17th. Four more appeared Apr 21st but subsequently only 18 more before the end of the month. Small numbers continued to arrive throughout May but there were no noticeable influxes. A mere 18 birds were reported for the whole of June and only one in July, which was also the last for the year, at Porthgwarra Jul 22nd.

There were no reports of successful breeding and no sightings of juveniles.

ARP commented that it was again scarce at Lizard whilst JWJ at and SMC in mid Cornwall both concurred in their respective areas.

Apart from ones and twos there was eight between St. Ives and Zennor Apr 22nd, three between and St. Keverne May 14th, four in the Upper Fowey Valley May 18th, three at Twelvemensmoor May 21st and seven at Halvana May 24th. Overall, it was a fairly disastrous year.

99 BARN OWL - Tyto alba

Resident. Breeds. Loss of breeding sites, destruction of hunting habitat, pesticides, increased road traffic and cold winters followed by cold damp summers have all conspired to take a heavy toll on this highly vulnerable species. Despite this, Cornwall has remained a major stronghold for the Barn Owl in the U.K. but one wonders for how much longer? The downward trend of the last five years continued in 1992 with a 25% reduction in the number of sites apparently supporting Barn Owls during the year. Observations were received from 95 localities but breeding was proved at only twelve, although probable at many more.

In the Caradon district birds were noted in twenty areas compared with 37 in 1991 — a near 50% reduction. Breeding was confirmed at and suspected at Rame and Sconner. Reports suggest a small but widespread population south of the A38 -Saltash road but a patchy distribution to the north, in particular around Callington and Bodmin Moor. In the Restormel district the decrease was less evident with sightings from 21 areas and proven breeding at St. Mawgan and two sites at St. Columb Major. Unfortunately one of the St. Columb pairs failed to rear any young from two broods of five eggs. Breeding was strongly suspected at Trebelsue and near RAF St. Mawgan but there was none at a traditional site at . In North Cornwall, birds were noted at 21 localities with successful breeding at St. Merryn Airfield, near Bedruthan Steps and near Lanivet. Breeding pairs were inadvertantly disturbed by building renovation work at St. Mabyn and . The St. Mabyn birds were taken into care and reared whilst the Chapel Amble clutch were left to their own devices and are thought to have fledged. Two traditional sites in the Bedruthan Steps/St. Eval area were not used. Very few observations were submitted for the far east of the county notably the Launceston and areas but one at Jul 16th was apparently the first there for many years.

The only breeding report from the Carrick district concerned a pair using the tower of the church. Pairs were also noted during the breeding season at Probus, Ruan Lanihorne, Ruan Highlanes, Road and on two farms near Truro. Ten other potential sites were used during the year. Of particular interest were a pair roosting in a mine shaft near Truro May 31st — the date may be indicative of breeding rather than roosting. In the district pairs apparently bred only near Coverack and near St. Keverne — an unfortunate reverse after five pairs in 1991. Once again JWJ did not see a single bird at Sithney whilst EGe reported only 'very occasional sightings' in the area as a whole.

The Penwith district is apparently the least heavily populated area with singles only at Long Rock Feb 18th, Rosemurgy May 23rd, Aug 20th, Sennen Aug 24th, Rosudgeon Nov 1st and Boswednack regularly during November and December.

EAGLE OWL - Bubo bubo

Status uncertain but presumed escape. Polbathic: One seen on three occasions between February and August by Mr. I. Allen. The observer has single pairs of captive European and Indian Eagle Owls. The intruder was a free-flying European type Eagle Owl, relatively approachable but not wearing jesses. In February he found it mantling a rabbit but it flew off carrying the rabbit when approached by a dog. On the two remaining occasions it was seen standing on the roof of one of Mr. Allen's flights, attracted by the calling captive pair inside, per SCM.

100 LITTLE OWL — Athene noctua

Widespread but scarce resident. Breeds. Despite vastly increased observer coverage there has been a substantial diminution relatively, in the number of birds reported annually. After a 50% reduction between 1983 and 1986 there was a slight improvement up to 1990 but last years' pitifully few observations reflect a further reversal. Breeding was not confirmed anywhere in 1992. Towednack: pair throughout year, probably bred. MJR.DW. Pentire, Polzeath: a pair at one site and a single at another site throughout the year. DL.DAC.IMEC.DU. et al. St. Minver: singles Jan 14th and Nov 14th, two Dec 30th. DLJ. Mullion: singles Jan 16th, March, Oct 12th and December. ARP.RB. Watergate Bay: one Jan 24th. NA. : one Apr 25th. RAJ. Porthgwarra: one May 7th. B. Between Rame and Millbrook: one May 15th. BTC. St. Erth: one Jun 18th. LAB. Landulph: one Aug 29th. GDL. St. Mabyn: one Sept 9th. DAC. Porthjoke: one Sept 24th. SMC. Sheviock: one dead in road September. LACT. Rame Head: up to three Oct 7th-20th. EJW.JHi.WJW.JWh. Seaton: one Dec 16th. HB.

TAWNY OWL - Strix aluco. Resident. Breeds. There was a huge increase in the volume of information submitted this year indicating a widespread and healthy population. Breeding was reported from a total of thirteen sites. Single pairs were successful at Trevelgue (Newquay), Trevanson (Wadebridge), Lundy Bay, Lanivet, Penrose (St. Ervan), , Probus and Chacewater. Two pairs bred at Treburnck (St. Eval) and Coldrose Farm, Truro. The clutch size of three sites was not reported but at the others an average of 2.3 young was fledged. Unsuccessful breeding was reported from Penmount where the single egg failed to hatch.

Supplementary aural and visual records were received from most parts of the county east of Truro but with some areas apparently more heavily populated than others. CM observed birds at eleven localities within a two mile radius of St. Eval whilst DIJ reported it as 'common within the Camel Valley with most wooded areas occupied'.

MJL heard several pairs calling in the Port Gaverne valley and FHCK observed that 'status was maintained at Bude'. At least three pairs held territory in the St. Columb Major built up area and LSP & EMP report that 'it remains well established at St. Just in Roseland'.

Records from the west of the county were again sparse. In the Kerrier district single pairs were heard throughout the year at Mullion, Tregathenan and Penventon Hotel, Redruth whilst one was calling at Wendron Sept 10th.

There were no records from the Camborne-Hayle-Marazion district. There is evidently a small resident population in the Penzance area with singles noted at Gulval, Ponsandane and during the year. In the far west two were regularly heard at St. Bury an and one was heard calling throughout August at Lamorna. There were also singles at Skewjack Apr 25th, Sept 29th and Nov 8th, Porthgwarra Sept 28th to Oct 17th, with another there Oct 16th, Kenicfjack Nov 14th and Drift Res Nov 17th.

LONG-EARED OWL - Asio otus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Occasionally breeds.

101 After the small influx into the county in the autumn and second winter period of 1991 it was not surprising that more than usual were discovered early in 1992. Totally unexpected however was the discovery of a pair which had bred at Colliford and had reared two young. IDa. et al. There have been only four known instances of successful breeding in Cornwall prior to 1992: in 1985, 1934, 1927 and 1924. Also of interest, and possibly locally breeding or bred, was a bird picked up injured as a road casualty at , near Camelford Aug 30th. It was taken into care by Mrs. M. Edwards and nursed back to health.

Elsewhere it proved to be the best year for the species since 1976. Sticker: the roost of four in December 1991 quickly dissipated and only one remained for a few days into 1992. PW. St. Wenn: one found dead in road Jan 7th. per RDP. Gannel Est: one Jan 8th. DD. Silverwell, Chiverton: three Feb 14th. BKM. Lands End: one Sept 18th. RA.DSF. Rame Head: one Oct 7th. WJW. , near Camelford: one Dec 18th. STB. Other reports received lacked conclusive detail.

The county mainland total advances to c.75 since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 5 7 5 6 1 5 — 6 3 12 7 15 3 Top sites: Porthgwarra — eight, Stithians — six, Upper Fowey Valley, Colliford and Sticker — four each.

SHORT-EARED OWL — Asio flammeus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year but several areas are regularly frequented. Bred on several occasions in the 1930's and 1940's and probably did so in 1983. Only five were noted in the first winter but there was a notable spring passage involving nine birds. At least twelve moved through in autumn with three remaining into December. Tregonetha: one from. 1991 was noted intermittently until Feb 29th. One from Dec 24th into 1993. Cligga Head: one Jan 8th. Pentire, Polzeath: one Jan 11th. : singles Jan 30th and Apr 29th. St. Minver: one Jan 31st. Padstow: one Mar 15th. Walmsley Sanctuary: one Mar 27th-31st. Polhawn Cove, Rame Head: one Mar 30th-Apr 5th. Crousa Downs, St. Keverne: one Apr 10th. St. Anthony Head: one Apr 21st. Dodman Head: one May 2nd. Bostraze/Pendeen: one May 7th-29th. Sennen: one May 14th. Cot Valley: one Jul 7th and 8th. Halzephron, Gunwalloe: one Aug 23rd. Lands End: one Sept 27th-Oct 11th. Bosistow, St. Levan: six Oct 11th, one Oct 12th. Porthgwarra: one Oct 20th. Kenidjack: one Nov 14th. St. Buryan: one Nov 20th.

102 St. Eval: one Dec 6th into 1993. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one Dec 17th. Landulph: one Dec 24th.

The Cot Valley bird is difficult to categorize: it is either the latest ever in spring or the earliest ever in autumn. Assuming the former, the Halzephron bird becomes the second earliest ever in autumn. The six at Bosistow in October is the largest party in the county since 1982.

EUROPEAN NIGHTJAR — Caprimulgus europaeus (Formerly Nightjar)

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Formerly more common as a breeding species in Cornwall but recent records show a marked contraction in range with breeding information restricted to small, isolated areas.

1992 breeding season information was received from the following localities (with comparative data for 1987-1991). Figures represent maximum number of churring males:

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 West Penwith site 1 5 3 6 3 5 4 site 2 2 (see cumulative figure for site 1). Lizard 3 1 2 2/3 3 3 Bodmin Moor 4 4/5 4 + 4/5 1 — Near St. Austell 2 1 1 — — — Near 1 — — — — — Sites near Bodmin and near Lostwithiel, which were both occupied until 1990, were checked on a number of occasions but there was no evidence of occupation at any time.

The number of singing males is the highest in Cornwall for at least twenty years, but of greater interest was BTC's sightings of two young at the Bodmin Moor site Jul 28th — the first proof of breeding in the county for several years.

The first in spring was one at the Bodmin Moor site May 18th and the last were seven there Jul 28th.

COMMON SWIFT — Apus apus (Formerly Swift). Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The strong southerly winds of Apr 20th produced a small influx of birds at seven different sites but passage was then slow to the end of the month. The main immigration occurred May 10th-13th and light passage continued until the end of the month. Fifty at Porthgwarra Jun 9th could have been newly arrived or locally displaced birds. The overall impression of breeding numbers was of a considerable reduction but few quantitative counts were forthcoming. PAR again counted five or six nests in use at the Godrevy cliff colony and CLB noted twelve in usual areas at Penryn. Autumn passage was complete in many areas before the end of July and only small parties were noted during August. Eleven singles lingered into September with the last at Lands End on 27th. Maximum numbers: Colliford Res: 60 May 8th. Penzance: 200 May 10th-13th. Loe Pool: 300 May 11th. Sennen: 200 Jun 26th. Porthgwarra: 60 Jul 7th. Antony: 200 Jul 18th. Penryn: 50 Aug 10th.

103 ALPINE SWIFT - Apus melba Rare vagrant. Loe Bar: one Apr 11th. JSG.RK.

1991 record: Lamorna: one Jul 6th. BDB. Both accepted by BBRC. The county mainland total advances to 17. MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 6 2 1 2 2 2 1 1 —

COMMON KINGFISHER - Alcedo atthis (Formerly Kingfisher) Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Winter visitor.

ApproximatJan Febe monthlMar y Apcountr yMa totaly : Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 16 6 9 4 6 6 11 18 19 33 21 16 Well distributed in the first winter period with reports from at least thirty areas. Away from potential breeding sites the last was one at Drift Res Apr 5th. Typically, most reports concerned singles but there were two at Lynher Est., West Looe River and Hayle Est. plus three at St. Johns Lake. Breeding season records derived from the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991). B = breeding confirmed; p = birds present in suitable habitat, success not known.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Antony House B St. Germans P B Netherbridge B Upper Fowey Valley P P P Lerryn P — B — — — — Respryn P P — — — P — Polbrock P — — — B P P , Truro P Three broods were reared by the Netherbridge pair and two young fledged at the Antony House site. In the Upper Fowey Valley there were sightings from three separate areas; Ninestones, Westerlake and Trezibbett.

The first return birds were three at Camel Est Jul 6th and a single at Tamar Lake the following day. Seven more arrived before the end of July and there was a light, protracted passage involving 55+ birds which continued until late October. Apart from singles, two were regular at Bude, St. Johns Lake, Lynher Est., Drift Res and Camel Est., two were at Stithians Res. Sept 12th, three at Tamar Lakes Sept 19th-Oct 26th, three at Hayle Est. Sept 30th-Oct 13th and three at Tamar Est in October increasing to five in November.

At the end of the year at least 16 were reported overwintering — all singles except two at Tresillian and Tamar Est.

EUROPEAN BEE-EATER — Merops apiaster (Formerly Bee-eater)

Rare vagrant.

104 Porthgwarra: one May 16th. JFR. Men-an-Tol, Morvah: one May 23rd. MR.

The county mainland total advances to c.71. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — — — 46 17 2 — 1 — 1 — 4 (65%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra - 20, Helston — 12, Crowan — seven, — six and Trevose Head — five. Porthgwarra is the only site to be visited more than once, the remainder have all been single flock occurrences.

HOOPOE — Upupa epops

Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring). Bred in 1969, 1968, 1962, 1905 and 1901. Lizard Church Cove: one Apr 20th. SK.JK. Towednack: one Apr 20th-22nd. MJR.DW et al. Porthkerris, St. Keverne: one Apr 21st. Mrs. Witty per ARP. St. Buryan: two Apr 21st. Mr. & Mrs. AGRJ. CGKM. Gwithian: one Apr 21st/22nd. PAR.DJH. Peranuthnoe: one Apr 21st. B.L. Kenidjack: one Apr 21st-24th, another Apr 22nd-24th. RJH et al. Newlyn: one Apr 21st. B.L. Keveral Farm, Looe: two Apr 22nd-28th. IS.KP. et al. Nanquidno: one Apr 23rd-26th. RJH. et al. Kemyel, Lamorna: one Apr 23rd-26th. B. Predannack: two Apr 24th-26th. GR. et al. , Port Quin: one Apr 25th. GRGS. Crackington Haven: one Apr 27th. STB.AJB.SJB., another Jun 2nd. ED. West Looe: one for several days in May. J. Bassett. Godrevy: one May 3rd. PAR. : one May 5th. SMo. St. Germans: one May 11th. AB.PB.EHW. Housel Bay, Lizard: one May 17th. JFHT. Sheviock: one Jun 12th. Canon & Mrs. York. Mr. & Mrs. J. Smale. Carey Tor, Bodmin Moor: one Jun 13th. BTC.LACT. Farm, Falmouth: one Jun 25th. per EGe. Bowwednack: one Aug 31st. EGG.GGG. Golant: one Sept 30th. per EGe. With a possible maximum of 29 birds, 1992 proved the best year ever for this species in Cornwall. The incursion of 17 birds Apr 20th-25th was quite unprecedented, but the lack of sightings prior to Apr 20th was uncharacteristic.

The county mainland total advances to c.418 since 1930 prior to which data is incomplete. Monthlv breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — 3 72 190 63 11 7 13 26 21 10 — 2 (46%)

WRYNECK - Jynx torquilla

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Has overwintered twice. There is no fully authentic record of the species having bred in Cornwall and in view of the recent, rapid contraction in range in the U.K. any future attempt seems highly unlikely. Curiously there has been a significant increase in the number of migrants being reported in the county in recent years.

105 Nanquidno: singles Sept 12th and 30th. JSH.LPW. : one Sept 13th. per GRW.MW. Sennen/Lands End: one Sept 17th-Oct 9th, another Sept 27th. SH.DJC.NLG.BG. et al. Porthcothan Bay: one Sept 17th-23rd. Mr. & Mrs. DFP. Cape Cornwall: one Sept 20th. RJH. Cot Valley: one Sept 21st-28th. RJH. Lamorna: one Sept 22nd and 30th. BDB. Porthgwarra: singles Sept 23rd and 30th-Oct 10th. JFR.DJO.RAJ. et al. Lizard Church Cove: one Sept 23rd-29th. B. Camel Est: one Sept 24th. PJO. Duckpool: one Sept 26th. IK. Porthcurno: singles Sept 27th and Oct 6th. BG. St. Levan: one Sept 28th-Oct 6th. SMC.BG. Bosistow: St. Levan: one Sept 28th. BG. Nanjizal: one Oct 4th. BG. Caerthillian: one Oct 9th. ARP. Another excellent year with a possible maximum of 17 birds involved, but there is no doubt, duplication of birds wandering from one location to another, particularly in the Lands End valleys. The county mainland total advances to c.222 since 1930. Remarkably, 122 (55%) have occurred in the last seven years.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 - 2 13 7 1 - 18 136 42 2 - (61%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 39, Lizard Church Cove/Caerthillian — 27, St. Ives — nine, Kenidjack and Sennen/Lands End — eight.

GREEN WOODPECKER - Picus viridus

Resident. Breeds. There appears to have been a reduction in population particularly in periphal areas such as coastal valleys which were occupied by birds in the 1970's and early 1980's. Despite this FHCK concludes that the resident population of the Bude area seems not to have changed whilst JWJ recorded the species more frequently at Tregathenan. Observations were submitted from c.80 localities in 1992, a slight improvement on 1991, but breeding was confirmed only at Bowdanoddan Wood (Bodmin Moor), Golitha Falls, Penlee Point and Drift Res. However, at least 25 additional sites held birds during the breeding season.

All reports concerned one or two birds except a count of five between Logan Rock and Bosistow, St. Levan Sept 27th.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER — Dendrocopos major

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. It appears that the population and distribution reached its zenith in the late 1970's and early 1980's after the onslaught of Dutch Elm disease. The initial affect of the disease provided an abundant food source which was temporarily exploited but which subsequently dissipated as trees decayed and became sterile. After a promising increase in submitted data in 1991 there was another valuable upsurge in interest this year. Observations were submitted from at least 90 localities and although breeding was proven only at Clerkenwater, Fenton Bridge (Camelford), Harewood (Calstock), , Dunmere Woods, Camel Valley, Trevanson, Messack Point (St. Just in Roseland), Loe Pool and St. Loy many other potential sites held territorial birds during the summer months.

106 There was the customary small increase in the far west of the county in autumn, indicative perhaps of a light passage. Singles were reported from Porthgwarra, Treen and Kenidjack Sept 25th and most of the Lands End valleys then attracted one or two birds over the ensuing six weeks. There was apparently a small influx Oct 7th when two were at Bosistow and three were at Nanjizal.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER — Dendrocopos minor

Scarce resident. Breeding rarely reported. Forder, Saltash: one Feb 2nd. EG. Kilminarth, Looe: one Feb 7th. JHF. Halton Quay: one Mar 15th. EG. : two Mar 15th. EG. Rilla Mill: one Mar 25th. EG. Calstock: two Apr 5th. EG. Carnanton, St. Mawgan: one May 30th. SMC. St. Germans: adult with two juveniles Jun 13th. EHW. Lamorna: one Aug 25th. DIMW. Landulph: one Oct 31st. GDL. Tamar Lake: one Nov 3rd. FHCK. Diligent searching by EG indicates a small but widespread nucleus in the Tamar Valley. The family party at St. Germans is the first proof of breeding in the county since 1980. The Tamar Lake record is the first there since 1980. The Lamorna observation is the third from the Lands End peninsula in recent years (cf. singles at Crean and Porthgwarra in 1989).

SHORT-TOED LARK - Calandrella brachydactyla

Rare vagrant. Rame Head: one Sept 30th-Oct 4th. SB.RE.RS.VRT. et al. The 13th county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 2 1 3 4 2 Top sites: Porthgwarra — three, Reskajeage and Sennen — two each.

WOOD LARK - Lullula arborea (Formerly Woodlark)

Rare resident and passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. This premier songster was formerly widespread with breeding records from many parts of the county until 1968. Subsequently there has been a gradual contraction in range with no breeding season observations away from the east of the county since 1981. Breeding has been confirmed only twice in the last 25 years — at St. Germans in 1983 and at Treveneage in 1968. In 1992 there was a lack of breeding season sightings for the second consecutive year but there was up to 14 in autumn and a record-equalling flock in December.

Navax Point: one Feb 29th. B. Porthgwarra: three flew south Oct 8th, two Oct 10th and one Oct 20th. SMC.MB.JDB.EG. DRC. et al. Bosistow: three flew east Oct 10th. AMH.GCS. Cape Cornwall: singles Oct 11th and 26th. MPS.IMB.VRT. Lands End: four Oct 17th. DSF. Maker Heights: 22 Dec 27th, 20 Dec 29th, 15 Dec 30th. KP. et al.

107 The autumn reports from Porthgwarra/Bosistow/Lands End are difficult to assess and may have involved a single small party. The Maker Heights flock (which was to increase in January 1993) equalled the previous largest flock in the county — at Mawgan Porth on 11th December 1933.

SKY LARK — Alauda arvensis (Formerly Skylark)

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. After low numbers were reported at the end of 1991 it was surprising that several large flocks, including the highest first winter count since 1982, were reported in January and February this year.

Set-a-side fields at West Pentire attracted a massive flock which peaked at c. 1000 Jan 22nd whilst other large gatherings included 350 at Jan 28th and 170 at Gwithian Feb 3rd.

Spring passage proved negligible with 15 at Clodgy Point, St. Ives the only possible evidence oi immigration.

Despite a general lack of breeding season observations the species appears to have maintained its status.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with 25 at Trevose Head Sept 19th and continued until Nov 3rd. Peak counts were about the average of recent years and second winter flocks were the largest for many years. Autumn/second winter maxima: Trevose Head: noted Sept 19th-Oct 30th with max of 210 Sept 27th and 320 Oct 30th. Penlee Point/Rame Head: noted Sept 26th-Nov 3rd with max of 400 Oct 2nd. Sennen: noted Sept 30th-Nov 3rd with max of 130 last date. Bosistow, St. Levan: c.1040 flew east between Oct 5th and 14th with max of 297 Oct 11th and 531 Oct 13th. Porthgwarra: noted Oct 7th-31st with max of 200 Oct 30th. Par: 250 flew north Oct 29th. West Pentire: 615 Oct 31st, 330 Dec 12th. Bedruthan Steps: 600 on stubbles Dec 23rd.

100/200 were also noted at Sheviock and two areas of the Camel Est.

SAND MARTIN — Riparia riparia Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Small numbers roost with Barn Swallows at traditional sites in autumn. There was a well documented 'crash' in population levels nationally from 1968 to 1979. This reduction was related to prolonged drought in the Sahel region of Africa. Subsequently, numbers fluctuated around a low base, apparently reaching rock-bottom in 1984 and 1985. More recently there has been a slight improvement in breeding numbers in Cornwall.

1992 breeding season reports were received from the following colonies (with comparative data for 1987-1991). Figures represent number of occupied holes, p = present, not counted.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 Clay Pit 45 + 30 30 + 66 + 27 25/30 Hawkstor Clay Pit 19 22 P P P P Stannon Clay Pit 30 Gwithian 7 — P 28 + 28 P Other recent breeding sites at Loe Bar, Poldhu, Gunwalloe and Maidenwell Clay Pit do not appear to have been visited.

Spring passage commenced with two at Bude Mar 4th — the third earliest ever, followed

108 by two at Wadebridge Mar 5th. Good numbers arrived before the end of March and immigration continued unabated throughout April and the first half of May with heaviest movements Apr 20th and May 19th.

Conversely, autumn passage, which apparently commenced with 30 at Porthgwarra Jul 7th, was abysmal with only five birds in August, 25 in September and four in October — the last at Sennen on 6th.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Marazion: noted Mar 18th-Sept 18th with max of 60 May 4th and 200 May 19th. Helston Boating Lake: 50 Mar 22nd. Loe Pool: noted Mar 22nd-Sept 9th with max of 100 Mar 23rd, 200 Apr 20th and 100 May 11th. Trevose Head: 100 Apr 20th and 63 May 3rd. Clodgy Poiint, St. Ives: 150 Apr 20th. Sennen: 100 Apr 21st.

BARN SWALLOW - Hirundo rustica (Formerly Swallow)

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms large roosts at traditional sites in autumn. A few remain into December most years and birds occasionally overwinter into the New Year. The first spring arrivals were two at Amble Marshes Mar 9th followed by two at Landulph Mar 16th. Small parties were noted at several other sites before the end of the month and during the first half of April. Larger numbers arrived with the first major influx of summer migrants Apr 18th-21st and there were several good counts in May before passage apparently terminated towards the end of the month. Highest counts included 250 at St. Ives Apr 20th, 100 at Sennen Apr 21st and 100 at Trevose Head the same day, 490 at Trevose May 3rd, 300 at Loe Pool May 11th, 300 at Treveal May 16th and 100 at Penzance May 19th. Opinions differed regarding breeding numbers. No-one reported an increase but FHCK and J Ad EM reported good numbers at Bude and on Bodmin Moor respectively. Meanwhile LSP & EMP observed that the species was very late arriving in the Roseland district and was then generally scarce whilst CLB considered that there were fewer at Penryn and MPV saw very few at Falmouth.

Early autumn passage went virtually unnoticed with traditional roosts at Marazion, Par and Gunwalloe almost unattended (ie: the peaks of 100 at Marazion and 75 at Par compare with 2000 and 3000 respectively in 1991). Elsewhere the maxima included 167 roosting at Gwithian Aug 26th, 75 at Blisland Sept 16th and 321 flying northwest over Nanjizal Sept 29th. Low numbers continued to be reported from many areas throughout October and early November. Late sightings included four at Porthgwarra Nov 29th, three at Loe Pool Dec 5th, one or two in the Penzance/Marazion area until Dec 11th and two at Helston Dec 14th.

RED-RUMPED SWALLOW - Hirundo daurica

Rare vagrant.

1991 record:

The Marazion bird accepted by BBRC.

HOUSE MARTIN - Delichon urbica Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few remain into December in most years but there are only two instances of overwintering. Spring immigration commenced with singles at St. Ives and Treveal Mar 28th — the only

109 reports for that month. Passage throughout April was lighter than usual with only three double figure flocks reported; 12 at Helston on 20th, 20 at Wadebridge on 24th and 20 at Walmsley Sanctuary on 25th. Even in May counts were low with the only significant gatherings all noted in mid month. The maxima included 300 at Loe Pool on 11th, 300 flying north at Treveal on 16th and 50 at Trevose Head on 17th. Very few quantitative breeding counts were received and the general impression was of a reduced population. LSP & EMP failed to locate any nests at St. Just in Roseland or St. Mawes whilst a former colony at Ruan Lanihorne was deserted. TH reported that a former colony at Mellanvrane, Newquay was similarly deserted. However, FHCK commented that despite a late arrival numbers were about average in the Bude whilst CLB reported that numbers were up at Penryn. The largest colony reported was at Doyden House, Port Quin where there was a total of 40 nests in use (cf. 50 in 1991). Ten nests were observed at Tregellast Barton, St. Keverne but only small numbers elsewhere. DE watched two pairs visiting nests in a cave at Polpeor Cove, Lizard but none of the other cliff-nesting sites were documented. Post-breeding gatherings were generally small and emigration occurred earlier than normal. Peak counts included 125 at Porthgwarra Aug 21st, 140 at St. Columb Major Aug 25th, 125 at Blisland Sept 16th, 500 at Tamar Lakes Sept 17th and 150 at Rame Head Oct 11th. Lingering individuals were noted at eleven localities during November whilst December produced two at Truro on 2nd and one at St. Ives on 12th.

RICHARD'S PIPIT — Anthus novaseelandiae

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Annual since 1974.

Walmsley Sanctuary: one Apr 24th. SMC. Cot Valley: one Sept 18th. MPS. Nanquidno: one Sept 20th. JFR. Porthgwarra: one Sept 21st-Oct 1st, three Oct 7th/8th and one to 14th. SMC.EGG.GGG. et al. Treen: two Sept 27th, one Sept 28th, three flew east Sept 30th, one Oct 1st. JFR.NB.NH. et al. Lands End/Sennen: one Sept 27th-29th and Oct 5th. AMH.GCS. St. Levan: one Oct 1st. AMH.GCS. Trevose Head: singles Oct 1st and 13th. SMC.GJU. Portmellon: one flew south Nov 8th. PAM. Several other reports received lacked sufficient data for acceptance.

A difficult set of records to assess. The Cot and Nanquidno sightings could relate to the same bird, but are treated differently, whilst the Porthgwarra, St. Levan and Treen reports appear to relate to the same three mobile birds. Bearing these assumptions in mind the county mainland total advances to c.219 — all but nine since 1960.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 2 — 3 8 — — — — 52 127 21 6 (24%) (58%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra - 74 (34%), Lizard — 15, Trevose Head — 12.

TAWNY PIPIT — Anthus campestris Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn but occasionally as a spring overshoot from the south). Annual since 1979. Porthgwarra: one Sept 9th. UP. et al. Treen: two Sep 18th, three Sept 19th/20th. PAD.JFR.DSF.JH. et al.

110 Lands End: one Sept 18th. MPS. Trevose Head: adult Sept 18th. GJC. Dodman Head: one Sept 19th. PAM. Nanquidno: one Oct 16th/17th. MEi. Note the simultaneous arrival of six birds Sept 18th/19th.

The third best year ever, bettered only by twelve in 1983 and nine in 1986.

The county mainland total advances to c.96 — all but three since 1960.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 4 5 — 3 3 55 24 2 — (57%)

The Dodman bird is exceptional, being only the second ever on the south coast between Lizard and .

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 37 (39%), Marazion — five, Sennen, Lands End, St. Just Airfield arid Treen — four each.

OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT - Anthus hodgsoni

1991 record: The Sennen bird accepted by B.B.R.C.

TREE PIPIT — Anthus trivialis

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The majority of breeding pairs are found around the heaths and conifer plantations in mid and East Cornwall, notably Bodmin Moor, Redmoor/Helman Tor/, Goss Moor and /Summercourt. There has been no breeding season record west of Truro since 1970 whilst the species remains scarce or under-recorded north and east of Camelford. Corresponding with a substantial decrease in national population levels there has been a noticeable diminution locally over the last four or five years. The only proven breeding record this year emanated from Kit Hill, although 'small numbers may have bred in the Crowdy/Davidstow area'. Elsewhere there were three males at Halvana during May but only one later, two at Smallacombe in June and singles holding territory at , St. Cleer Downs, Notter Tor and Herodsfoot. SMC was unable to locate any on typical sites on Goss Moor whilst JAdEM found four traditional territories in the Upper Fowey Valley deserted. The first in spring were five at Towednack, two at Clodey Point and one at Trevose Head — all Apr 20th. Singles were at Kenidjack and TreveaT Apr 21st and 22nd respectively but then there was none until two males were located singing at Hawks Tor May 2nd. The total of 18 migrants was slightly above the recent average with the last two at Porthgwarra May 17th.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Lanhydrock Aug 7th with no more until two at Rame Head and one at Marazion Aug 15th. A meagre total of c.43 birds was reported; the poorest passage for many years. Last were singles at Porthgwarra, St. Levan, Cot and Nanquidno Oct 13th. Apart from a small influx of ten Sept 5th/6th passage was uneventful. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: two Aug 15th and singles Sept 12th and 20th. Towednack: one Aug 16th, three Sept 5th, one Sept 6th. Lizard Church Cove: two Aug 21st and 25th, one Sept 19th. Treveal: six Sept 6th, one Sept 12th.

Ill Porthgwarra: one to three regular Sept 25th-Oct 13th, four Oct 10th. Nanquidno: two Oct 13th.

All other reports concerned singles.

MEADOW PIPIT — Anthus pratensis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Winter flocks in excess of 50 are unusual but substantial cold-weather movements are occasionally recorded. JAdEM gained the impression that numbers were below average in familiar haunts visited on Bodmin Moor but no quantitative breeding counts were received from any part of the county.

Observations for the first half of the year were sparse with 15 at St. Johns Lake Jan 25th and 35 flying east at Clodgy Point, St. Ives Apr 20th the sole reports of note. Autumn passage apparently commenced with three at Sennen Aug 14th and ended with many reports Oct 31st. Main migration occurred in the traditional Meadow Pipit weeks from Sept 19th to Oct 9th but peak counts were well below recent maxima.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Sennen: c.662 between Aug 3rd and Oct 31st with max of 200 Sept 19th and 27th. Rame Head: c.800 between Sept 18th and Oct 4th with max of 300 Sept 26th and Oct 4th. Trevose Head: c.350 between Sept 19th and Oct 30th with max of 180 first date. Lands End: c.370 between Sept 26th and Oct 9th with max of 310 flying south Oct 1st. Porthgwarra: c. 1385 between Sept 26th and Oct 21st with max of 500 Sept 26th and Oct 5th.

Later in the year 200 roosted at Landulph Marsh Nov 20th but there was no more than twenty at any other site.

Meadow Pipits John Walters

ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus

Resident. Breeds. Well distributed on all suitable coastline. Rare inland.

No change in status reported.

Noted as regular and frequent at many localities on both coasts and apparently enjoyed a successful breeding season. ML in a survey of the north coast between Ranie Point and Pentire Point found ten territories, with another three territories between Pentire Point and Trevose Head.

The largest concentrations included 15 at Castle Beach, Falmouth Jan 11th, 43 at Godrevy

112 Jan 26th (the larges party in the county since 1982), 20 at Lizard Sept 27th, 20 at Par Nov 13th and 18 at Hayle Est Dec 4th.

Inland there was one at Drift Res. Oct 7th — only the 14th such report in the last 35 years. Two leucistic birds caused some consternation, although both reports could refer to the same individual. One at Looe Sept 19th to 22nd was described as wholly creamy coloured apart from whitish grey wings ARR whilst one at Tregantle from Sept 30th into 1993 was generally pale yellowish faintly streaked greyish below. It had a yellowish white tail and flight feathers, fleshy red bill and legs and a dark eye. CFNHC.

'Scandinavian' Rock Pipit Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Birds showing characteristics of the race 'Anthus petrosus littoralis' were reported as follows: Lynher Est: one Feb 23rd. GDL.DC. Gwithian: three Apr 22nd. PAR.

The latter birds co-incided with the first substantial arrival of spring migrants.

WATER PIPIT — Anthus spinoletta Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Formerly regarded as a sub-species of Rock Pipit, but recognised as a full species since 1986. Small numbers winter at traditional sites such as Landulph, Marazion Marsh, Copperhouse and Camel Est. but migrants occur almost anywhere. The majority are reported from mid-October to late March but April records are not unusual.

Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4 2 8 4 1 — 3 Gwithian: one Jan lst-Feb 27th. PAR. Lynher Est: three Jan 27th. GJC. Trevose Head: one Feb 24th. GJC. Copperhouse/Hayle Est: singles Mar 2nd-7th and Dec 3rd into 1993. DSF.DE. et al. Landulph: one Mar 7th. CFNHC. Camel Est/Walmsley Sanctuary: two Mar 25th increasing to six Apr 3rd and four to Apr 9th. ACH.BCW.SMC. Maer Lake: one Oct 31st. SMC.TMC. Castle Beach, Falmouth: one Dec 12th. JMW.

Water Pipit John Walters

113 YELLOW WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava Passage migrant. Uncommon in spring, but forms roosts in autumn at Par Beach Pool, Loe Pool, Marazion Marsh and occasionally elsewhere. Bred almost annually 1956-65, sporadically prior to that, but not since. A few variants, notably Blue-headed, occur annually. Spring passage commenced with one at Colliford Apr 5th, but there was no more until two at Trevose Head and one at Lizard Apr 20th. It was another abysmal movement with only 14 birds observed at seven sites. Apart from those previously mentioned there was a total of five at Marazion, three at Camelford and singles at Treveal and Cape Cornwall with the last at Marazion Jun 2nd. Autumn passage commenced with one at Marazion Aug 14th and ended with three at Porthgwarra Oct 11th. Between dates a total of c.284 birds was observed at 27 localities. Only three moved through in August and passage was exceptionally light during the first two weeks of September. Almost half of the autumn total, 122, arrived Sept 18th-21st with lower numbers after these moved through.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Sennen: c.73 between Sept 5th and Oct 10th with max of 58 Sept 19th. St. Ives: five Sept 5th. Loe Pool: 12 Sept 19th, 14 Sept 26th. Predannack: c.22 between Sept 7th and 20th with max of 20 last date. Rame Head: c.27 between Sept 13th and Oct 5th with max of 20 Sept 26th. Porthgwarra: c.20 between Sept 13th and Oct 11th with max of five Sept 13th. Zennor: six Sept 20th. Treen: three Sept 20th, five Oct 5th. Caerthillian: eleven Sept 21st, 12 Sept 28th. Nanquidno: eleven Sept 23rd. Porth Mear: seven Sept 29th. There was no more than four together at any other site. Blue-headed Wagtail — Motacilla flava flava Predannack: two Sept 19th with one to 20th. EGe et al.

From an average of eight per year in the early 1980's there has been a recent decline to about one per annum.

GREY WAGTAIL — Motacilla cinerea Resident. Breeds on most suitable rivers and streams in mid, east and north Cornwall. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Small numbers occasionally roost with Pied Wagtails. There were no reports of change in status.

Widespread in small numbers in both winter periods and spring but no apparent migrants.

No quantitative breeding counts were received but there is obviously a thriving population. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Sennen and three at Loe Pool Aug 31st and terminated with one at Sennen Nov 3rd.

The total of c. 161 birds was similar to each of the last four years. Unlike Yellow Wagtail, passage was steady throughout the autumn period with no noticeable influx.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Loe Pool: c.15 between Aug 31st and Oct 17th with max of six Sept 12th and Oct 17th. Kenidjack: c.21 between Sept 5th and Oct 11th with max of 18 Sept 6th. Treveal: c.15 between Sept 6th and Oct 11th with max of ten first date. Porthgwarra: c.21 between Sept 13th and Oct 19th with max of eight Sept 26th.

114 Elsewhere there were maxima of five at Camel Est Sept 12th, five at Trevose Head Sept 19th and seven at Lands End Oct 4th.

PIED WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms roosts, mainly in autumn and winter. Well established roosts include Par Beach Pool, Marazion/Long Rock reedbeds, Gwithian and Truro. Despite a paucity of breeding season data the species remains common and widespread.

Roosts were apparently more numerous (or better documented) this year with the following peak counts submitted. St. Columb sewage works: 45 Jan 5th. St. Johns Lake: 90 Jan 25th. Cosy Cafe, Wadebridge: 22 Mar 3rd. Polzeath: 55 Mar 3rd. Par: 64 Mar 29th, 300 Sept 22nd. Gwithian: 129 Sept 22nd. Marazion: 40 Sept 17th. Camborne: 120 flying to roost somewhere on Pool Industrial Estate Oct 26th. Truro: usually 100, but 200 Nov 30th in small deciduous trees on the north side of High Cross Car Park. Also several dozen in evergreens at Trafalgar Garage. Three which flew south at Clodgy Point, St. Ives Apr 20th were the only spring migrants reported.

Autumn passage commenced with 35 at Par Aug 24th and ended with seven at Pentire Oct 31st. Peak counts included 120 at Predannack Sept 19th/20th, 100 at Lands End Oct 5th and 98 at Porthgwarra the same day. At the last named site counts were made almost daily in October and other good numbers were 51 on 4th, 79 on 11th and 64 on 13th.

There was no report of more than 40 in the second winter period. White Y\ agtail Passage migrant. The nominate race (Motacilla alba alba) of Pied Wagtail breeding throughout Europe.

Spring passage commenced with six at Treveal Mar 29th and ended with one at Upper Tamar Res. May 10th. It was the lightest arrival since 1985 with only 28 birds at nine localities. Apart from the Treveal birds a total of twelve passed through Marazion, there was two each at Looe and Stithians and six singles. Autumn passage was noted Sept 1st to Oct 26th and involved c.457 birds. Almost % (300) were noted at Predannack Sept 20th. Elsewhere there were peaks of eight at Par Sept 11th, 15 at Sennen Sept 14th, seven at Davidstow Airfield Sept 17th, ten at Culdrose Sept 18th, 50 at Cape Cornwall Sept 21st and seven at Rame Head Oct 4th. All other observations involved five or less.

BOHEMIAN WAXWING - Bombycilla garrulus (Formerly Waxwing) An irruptive species which occurs in Cornwall as a rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1985. Devoran: two early March. BED.

The county mainland total advances to c.79.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 7 4 6 1 1 2 27 28 3 (34%) (35%)

115 DIPPER — Cinclus cinclus

Scarce resident (mainly mid and east Cornwall). Breeds. Pairs are present on most suitable stretches of the Rivers Camel and Fowey with the nucleus of breeding pairs centred on the Bodmin area. Recent coverage of potential sites in the east of the county has revealed a healthy population on the Rivers Lynher, Neet and Inny.

Despite this apparently optimistic situation there can be little room for complacency — the species remains at risk from vastly increased pollution of our rivers plus loss of, and disturbance at, breeding sites.

An excellent year with breeding confirmed at Clapper Bridge, , Ninestones Bridge, Restormel, Respryn, Bodmin Parkway, , Bodmin, Hoopersbridge, Nanstallon, , St. Wenn, between Bodmin and Wadebridge (four or five pairs), Camel ford to Fenteroon (two pairs), and Idless. Other localities which attracted birds in the breeding season included Tolpetherwin, Starrabridge, Kerney Bridge, Seaton Valley, Draynes Bridge, West Looe River, Pelyn Wood, Lanivet, Pontsmill, (St. Austell), the rivers Allen and Kenwyn (Truro), St. Columb Major, and . Outside the breeding season there were observations from several other sites including two away from the normal range; singles at Wicca Aug 31st and Dec 30th.

There were no reports from the Falmouth/Helston area and other traditional breeding sites not used included Waterloo (Blisland), Shell Woods () and Fox Park, St. Wenn.

WREN — Troglodytes troglodytes

Abundant resident. Breeds, Populations may be severely reduced after prolonged cold winters. A good year was reported at Marazion by BP and small numbers were regular at all sites throughout the county. EJW counted nine singing males on a slow car drive from to Ninestones Bridge in the Upper Fowey Valley.

The largest congregation was 15 at St. Columb sewage works Dec 26th.

HEDGE ACCENTOR — Prunella modularis (Formerly Dunnock)

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Probably the least reported species during the year! There were no reports of change in status and no quantitative breeding counts. Eleven at Nanjizal Oct 8th may have included some migrants but there was no repeat of the high, autumn 1991 counts at Porthgwarra.

ROBIN — Erithacus rubecula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). No change in status was reported and few birds were reported outwith the autumn migration season. Passage commenced with seven at Sennen Sept 5th and apparently continued into mid- October. Peak counts occurred approximately ten to fourteen days earlier than normal.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Sennen: seven Sept 5th, 61 Sept 19th. Trevose Head: ten Sept 19th, eight Sept 27th. Nanjizal: 50 Sept 27th. Lands End: 53 Sept 27th. Duckpool: ten Sept 28th.

116 Porth Mean 15 Sept 29th. Pentire: 13 Oct 2nd. Porthgwarra: 25 Oct 7th. Lizard: 50 mid-October.

RUFOUS NIGHTINGALE — Luscinia megarhynchos (Formerly Nightingale)

Rare passage migrant. Annual since 1984. Bred in 1940, but not since, despite there being a small nucleus of breeding pairs in East Devon. Porthgwarra: one Sept 27th. NB. Lizard: one Oct 4th. SK. (One was also reportedly singing at Lower Tamar Lake May 29th but no description received). There are the fourth and second latest Cornish records, respectively.

The county mainland total advances to c.38.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar A pr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d — — — 4 9 4 — 5 9 3 — — 3 Top site: Porthgwarra/Nanjizal — nine.

BLUETHROAT — Luscinia svecica

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). , St. Just: one Oct 12th. RJH. The 18th county mainland record and the first since 1988. This is the second latest Cornish record. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec i 13 i j z (72%) Top sites: Marazion/Long Rock — six, Kynance and Porthgwarra — three each.

BLACK REDSTART — Phoenicurus ochrurous

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Bred sporadically in the Perranporth area during the 1940's and 1950's. Recent breeding season observations have raised hopes of re- colonisation but to date these have not come to fruition. Approximate monthly county total: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 23 8 14 3 2 — — — — 27 61 35 Few of the December 1991 birds were reported again but there was a small increase in the number of individuals overwintering. 23 were reported in January with two new birds in February. Apart from singles there was up to three at Falmouth and Newquay and two each at Porth Joke, Bedruthan Steps and Truro. Spring passage apparently commenced with two at Soap Cove Mar 6th. A further seven birds moved through Mar 15th-23rd, three were noted in April and there were two late birds in May; at Treveal on 4th and a male at Tregonetha May 31st. TH. Autumn passage commenced with one at Porthgwarra Oct 5th and ended with one at Cot

117 Nov 29th. A total of c.86 birds was reported from 49 localities. C.18 arrived Oct 9th-15th, but then very few until a small influx of c.35 Nov 7th-16th.

Virtually all observations concerned single day sightings as birds moved rapidly through.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Cot: five between Oct 10th and Nov 29th. Lands End: three Oct 10th. Lizard: three Oct 12th. Pentire: three Oct 14th. Zennor: five Nov 7th. Falmouth: four Nov 15th. Goonhilly: three Nov 16th. Bude: three Nov 16th. St. Loy: three Nov 17th. With mild weather conditions persisting almost to the end of the year it was not surprising that more than usual apparently wintered. Up to 20 were reported before Xmas but then a brief cold snap induced several more to enter the county from further north and east. Most reports concerned singles but there was four at St. Ives Dec 12th, three at Newlyn and Gribbin Head and two each at Portwrinkle, East Pentire and St. Columb Porth.

COMMON REDSTART — Phoenicurus phoenicurus Uncommon summer resident. Breeds. Almost exclusively confined to Bodmin Moor and the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin. Passage migrant. Spring passage was the poorest since 1981 with the only migrants at Lizard Apr 21st, Penlee Point May 3rd and Dodman the same day.

The first breeding bird to take up territory was in the Upper Fowey Valley Apr 26th. Breeding season reports were more numerous this year. Successful nests were noted at Bearah Tor (max of three males), Halvana (three males), , Caradon Hill and Industry (six pairs + three young Jun 22nd) on Bodmin Moor and at Lanhydrock. Elsewhere two singing males were observed at Upper Fowey Valley, Dozmaryhill Farm, Trebartha and Bowithick whilst single males were at Hawks Tor, Bradford, Rushy ford Gate, Wimalford and Davidstow Airfield. Whilst these observations represent a welcome increase on recent data, they fall well short of the estimated 61 pairs on Bodmin Moor in 1984 (Akers & Chown).

Autumn passage commenced with one at Sennen Sept 14th and ended with one at Oct 15th. A total of c.46 birds was reported — 34 in September and twelve in October. Eleven of these arrived Sept 18th-21st whilst 21 of the remainder passed through Sept 26th-29th. 30 (66%) were noted on the Lands End peninsula with the remainder mainly in the Lizard and southeast Cornwall areas. There was none along the north coast between Treveal and Marsland Mouth or along the south coast between Stithians and Seaton. All reports involved one or two birds except the following: Stithians: three Sept 20th. Lizard Church Cove: five Sept 20th. Porthgwarra: three Sept 26th. Nanquidno: three Sept 27th. Skewjack: four Sept 29th.

WHINCHAT — Saxicola rubetra

Uncommon summer resident. Breeds exclusively on Bodmin Moor. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with one at Clodgy Point, St. Ives Apr 20th — the only report for the month. Eleven more stopped briefly at coastal sites, five May 3rd and six between May 14th and 21st with the last at Caerthillian. Breeding season information was again sparse. Two males were noted at Colliford and

118 young were being fed there in June. Elsewhere two males were holding territory at Ninestones Bridge and Lower Langdon with another at Wimalford (all Upper Fowey Valley). To the north of the ten pairs were counted in the Garrow Tor-Butter Tor area during May. In 1984 the breeding population of Bodmin Moor was estimated at 180 pairs (Akers & Chown). Recent observations suggest that there has been a significant decrease in numbers. Whilst there has been no serious attempt to census the Moor since 1984, the disappearance of pairs from peripheral (and accessible) sites has been patently obvious. Unusual were two at Kit Hill Jul 19th — could this be an extension of breeding range or merely two early autumn migrants?. The first definite autumn migrant was at Torpoint Aug 18th followed by one at Porth Joke the next day. C.210 birds were reported with the last at Porthgwarra Oct 20th. 83 (40%) arrived Sept 17th-21st and 69 (33%) Sept 27th-30th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Predannack: c.24 between Aug 30th and Sept 27th with max of 21 Sept 19th. Rame Head: c.15 between Aug 31st and Oct 3rd with max of ten Sept 26th. Caerthillian: c.16 between Sept 17th and Oct 4th with max of nine Sept 17th. Sennen: c.14 between Sept 17th and Oct 19th with max of 12 Sept 18th. Cot: c.ten between Sept 18th and Oct 13th with max of six Sept 24th. Porthgwarra: c.18 between Sept 19th and Oct 20th with max of ten Sept 19th. Treen: c.12 between Sept 20th and Oct 2nd with max of eleven Sept 28th. Nanjizal: 13 Sept 29th. Lands End: 26 Sept 29th.

COMMON STONECHAT — Saxicola torquata

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Suffers heavy losses in prolonged cold weather. Predominantly mild weather in both winter periods enabled this prodigious breeding species to continue its steady recovery. Reports were received from all parts of the coast and also many inland sites. ARP reported another good breeding season at Lizard. DL counted a total of 23 pairs along the north coast between Pentire and Bossinney and MJR located nine males along one mile of coastline at Clodgy Point, St. Ives. Other high counts included six males holding territory between Crantock and Porth Joke, three pairs between Loe Bar and , three males at Kit Hill and four family parties in the Hawks Tor area of Bodmin Moor. There was no evidence of spring immigration but there was the customary increase in autumn. Passage apparently commenced in late August and reached a peak Sept 19th-26th, simultaneous with the movement of other passerines. The largest concentrations included 26 at Rame Head Sept 26th, 12 at Predannack the same day, 24 at Lands End Sept 27th, 24 at Porth Mear Sept 29th and 30 at Porthgwarra Oct 13th.

'SIBERIAN' STONECHAT Rare vagrant. 1991 All three birds accepted by BBRC.

NORTHERN WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe

Summer resident. Breeds, primarily on Bodmin Moor but with single pairs almost anywhere along the north coast and on the Lizard peninsula. South coast and other inland sites are seldom exploited. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with one at Gwithian Mar 1 st and apparently ended with two at Predannack May 17th. A total of c.534 birds was reported with almost 40% (205) arriving Mar 28th-Apr 4th. Another influx of 75 was noted May 3rd, otherwise it was a steady immigration.

119 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: c.58 between Mar 8th and May 15th with max of 48 Apr 2nd. Treveal: c.49 between Mar 8th and May 13th with max of 28 Apr 4th. Trevose Head: c.61 between Mar 8th and May 12th with max of 28 Mar 29th and 27 May 3rd. Clodgy Point: c.25 between Mar 8th and Apr 20th with max of 14 Mar 28th. Lizard: c.27 between Mar 9th and Apr 22nd with max of 20 Apr 3rd. Predannack: c.50 between Mar 21st and May 17th with max of 37 May 3rd. Cape Cornwall: 25 Apr 2nd. Breeding was again poorly documented. DAC reported 'usual numbers' on Bodmin Moor but JAdEM commented that 'visiting traditional colonies at Buttern Hill and Fox Tor I got the impression that numbers were below average'. Away from Bodmin Moor two pairs bred at Compass Point, Bude and single pairs were successful at Barretts Zawn, Jericho Valley, Kenidjack and Kynance.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Lizard Jul 29th and ended with two at Porthgwarra Oct 30th. The total of c.477 birds was above the recent average with regular counts and maximum numbers as follows: Porthgwarra: c.46 between Aug 6th and Oct 30th with max of 25 Sept 17th and 13 Oct 10th. Lands End/Sennen: c.73 between Aug 9th and Oct 16th with max of 12 Aug 9th, 22 Sept 17th and 21 Sept 29th. Davidstow Airfield: c.43 between Aug 9th and Oct 13th with max of 25 Aug 9th. Pendeen: ten Aug 20th. Trevose Head: c.50 between Aug 27th and Oct 11th with max of 15 Sept 6th, 18th and 27th. Predannack: c. 107 between Aug 27th and Oct 11th with max of 43 Aug 27th and 40 Sept 12th. Cape Cornwall: 15 Sept 8th.

'Greenland' Wheatear Birds showing characteristics of this distinctive large race 'O. o. leuccorhoa' were reported as follows: Predannack: one May 3rd. Trevose Head: one May 12th. Sennen: one Sept 5th. Lizard: two Oct 12th, one Oct 13th. DESERT WHEATEAR — Oenanthe deserti Rare vagrant. 1988 record Sennen: one Nov 5th. LPW. Accepted by BBRC. The third county mainland record.

Previous records were at Marazion in 1950 and Porthgwarra in 1984.

RING OUZEL — Turdus torquatus Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Breeding was last suspected in 1976 and last confirmed in 1970. The bird noted at Mullion in December 1991 remained until Apr 5th this year. ARP.HCP. et al. This is the third to overwinter in the county — previous records in 1968/9 and 1986/7. Spring passage commenced with one at Treveal Apr 4th and ended with one at Holmans Moors, Towednack May 16th. 14 birds were reported, all but one in April. Autumn passage commenced with a male at Kenidjack Sept 28th and ended with one at Porthgwarra which lingered to Oct 20th. A total of c.29 birds was reported with all but

120 three arriving Oct 6th-12th. Treveal: one Apr 4th, four Apr 22nd, three Oct 8th with one to 11th. : singles Apr 11th, Oct 9th and 17th. Clodgy Point, St. Ives: male Apr 12th-20th. Penlee Point: male Apr 20th. Lizard Church Cove: singles Apr 20th and Oct 10th. Gwithian: two males Apr 22nd. Rame Head: two Apr 25th. Holmans Moors: one May 16th. Kenidjack: singles Sept 28th and Oct 10th-13th. Mawgan Porth: juvenile Sept 30th. Porthgwarra: one or two daily Oct 6th-20th. Nanjizal: one Oct 6th. St. Levan: male Oct 7th. Sennen: one Oct 8th. Bosistow, St. Levan: two Oct 8th. Lands End: two Oct 9th. Cot: one Oct 9th-13th, two more Oct 11th. Nanquidno: one Oct 9th, two Oct 11th. Caerthillian: one Oct 9th. Coombe, Bude: one Oct 11th, two Oct 12th. Porthcurno: one Oct 12th.

BLACKBIRD — Turdus merula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn but also in winter as a result of severe weather). Forms roosts in winter but these are rarely reported. Small numbers of 'pied' birds are reported annually. Status appeared to be maintained with good numbers throughout the year.

As always few reports were received for the first nine months of the year and no quantitative breeding data was forthcoming.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with six at Trevose Head Sept 27th and ended with 71 there and 18 at Pentire — both Oct 31st. Passage was light with few notable counts. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Trevose Head: 92 west between Sept 27th and Oct 31st. Bosistow, St. Levan: 22 flew east between Oct 4th and 14th. Porthgwarra: 77 noted between Oct 7th and 21st with max of 20 Oct 14th. Lands End: 15 Oct 8th. Kenidjack: eleven Oct 12th.

Two pied birds were reported; a male at Spit Beach, Par with a pure white rump (present for several years) and a male at St. Just in Roseland with a white head.

One at Truro was seen with a tick behind its eye. RDP speculates that this was probably Ixodes ricinus (or sheep tick) which is specifically mentioned by Rothschild and Clay in 'Fleas, Flukes and Cuckoos' (New Naturalist Monograph No 7: Collins 1952) as a parasite of Blackbird amongst other bird species.

FIELDFARE — Turdus pilaris Winter visitor. Passage migrant with peak numbers normally in mid November at the height of autumn migration and in winter as a result of cold weather. Forms roosts in winter. Has summered once, in 1987, but no hint of breeding. Once again only small numbers were reported in both winter periods. The brief cold spell in January appeared to have little affect. A few remained into March and in April there were singles at Viverdon Downs, St. Mellion on 4th and Caerthillian on 20th.

The first autumn bird was at Porthgwarra Sept 27th but there was no more until 25 at

121 Penzance Oct 2nd and one at St. Ives the same day. Rather surprisingly in the prevailing northerly airstream very few arrived throughout October/November.

Maximum numbers: Colliford Res: 200 Jan 11th. Siblyback Res: 200 Jan 18th. Halvana: 200 roosting Mar 1st. Upper Fowey Valley: 100 Oct 31st. Dozmary Pool: 100 Dec 13th.

There was no more than 80 at any other locality.

Fieldfare Paul Semmens

SONG THRUSH - Turdus philomelos

Common resident: Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A decline in local populations in recent years is probably related to increased usage of molluscicides.

JWJ reported that the species was 'much less frequent at Tregathenan' and FHCK observed that numbers were only 'moderate' in the Bude district. Otherwise status appears to have been maintained throughout the county. The lack of large numbers in either winter period was not unexpected in view of the mild weather. There was evidence of spring passage and only small numbers were reported in autumn between Sept 27th and Nov 7th.

Maximum numbers: Trevose Head: c.15 moved west between Sept 27th and Oct 30th. Nanjizal: 20 Oct 5th. Bosistow: 18 flew east between Oct 5th and 14th. Lands End: 17 Oct 8th. Porthgwarra: 60 noted between Oct 7th and 21st. Treveal: 40 Oct 8th. Marazion: 30 Oct 18th. Pentire: 30 Oct 31st.

122 REDWING — Turdus iliacus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Peak numbers occur in mid winter as a result of birds being displaced by severe weather, and in mid November at the height of autumn migration. Habitually forms large roosts but these are poorly documented.

Slightly more numerous than Fieldfare in both winter periods but still well below normal peak numbers. Very few were reported in spring with the last at Cot Apr 17th and Upper Fowey Valley May 5th (the third latest ever).

The first in autumn were six at Bosistow and one at Davidstow Oct 4th. There was a small, widespread arrival over the next three days with reports from a further 16 localities. Heaviest passage of an uneventful autumn was noted Oct 7th — considerably earlier than normal.

Maximum numbers: Poldhu: 300 Jan 15th. Trekeivesteps: 400 Jan 18th. Torpoint: 600 Jan 25th. Boswednack: 200 Feb 5th. Porthgwarra: 147 Oct 7th. Nanjizal: 300 Oct 7th. Treveal: 170 Oct 11th. Siblyback: 150 Nov 7th. Tregonetha: 200 Dec 24th.

MISTLE THRUSH — Turdus viscivorus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

In common with Song Thrush this species has definitely decreased in the county over the last decade. This decline, from about 1983, followed a period of increase during the 1970's and has been obvious in most parts of Cornwall. The cause is unknown, but was previously thought to have been associated with the succession of cold winters in the 1980's. Many more observations were received this year with successful breeding at several sites.

Like the other thrush species numbers were very low in both winter periods with none apparently displaced by cold weather. The sole spring migrant was one flying over Trevose Head May 17th. Three large post-breeding flocks were reported in summer, and autumn passage was noted from Sept 12th to Nov 15th. A total of c.80 birds was reported with most moving through Sept 12th-16th and Oct 5th-12th.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Temple: 20 Jun 17th. Coldrose Farm, Truro: 12 in Yew late summer. Bodmin Wireless Station: 18 Aug 18th. Loe Pool: six Sept 12th, eight Oct 24th. Bearah Tor: 23 Sept 13th. Nanjizel: eleven between Sept 28th and Oct 13th. Rame Head: six Oct 11th.

CETTI'S WARBLER - Cettia cetti

Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant. This recent colonist was first noted in the U.K. in 1961 but did not reach Cornwall until 1973. Colonisation was initially slow but by 1978 birds were reported from six localities and included the first proof of breeding at Marazion Marsh. Subsequently, breeding has been proved in most years and was probable in others. Prior to 1990 the only other site where breeding had been confirmed was at in 1981 and 1982, but sadly the habitat

123 was destroyed for road and industrial development, although sporadic reports from nearby Phillack may indicate a small remnant population. These successes of the early 1980's probably accounted for the continued increase and dispersal throughout the county, although some immigration may also have occurred. By 1984 birds were noted at eleven localities, whilst in 1985, despite a reduction in the number of sites, at least 36 birds were located and there was a speculative estimate of 100 birds at Marazion alone. More recently, severe winter weather caused a substantial reduction in many parts of the U.K. including a virtual eradication in the species' former stronghold in Kent. The Cornish population was apparently halved from 1985 to 1986 and was further reduced in 1987 but there has been a slight improvement annually since. In 1992 singing males were reported from the following areas: Figures represent number of males: (With comparative data for 1986-1991).

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Marazion Marsh 12 7 8 5 7 8 7 Par 4 3 2 2 2 — — St. Erth 1 1 3 — — — — Gunwalloe 2 6 3 — 1 - 1 Poldhu 1 1 Holywell Bay 1 — — — 1 — — Bude 1 — 1 1 1 1 1 Perranporth 1 — 1 — - — — Other facts behind these figures: Marazion Marsh: five adults and seven juveniles trapped and ringed during the year. DSF.BP. et al. Par: two of the males were on traditional territories whilst the other two were discovered in a valley nearby. Two more birds, probably females were seen Oct 6th. EMC.SMC.TMC. et al.

Elsewhere: St. Columb sewage works: one Jan 26th, two Dec. 26th. SMC. Porthcothan Bay: one Oct 30th-Nov 24th. SMC. Site fidelity, since the first in 1973, reveals that birds have been noted at Marazion in 17 years, Calstock and Gunwalloe — ten years, Bude — eight, Skewjack and Par — seven and Poldhu — six.

30 other localities have played host to the species on five occasions or less.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER - Locustella naevia Summer resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant (mainly spring). Nationally it was a very poor year for this species with many traditional haunts and territories unoccupied.

This situation was reflected in Cornwall where a poor spring passage was succeeded by exceptionally low numbers in the breeding season.

The first arrivals were late but formed a mini-invasion Apr 21st when birds were at , Lizard Church Cove, Skewjack and Clodgy Point, St. Ives. Only 16 birds were reported in April with another 30 in May. Overall it was the lightest spring passage since 1987. Apart from ones and twos there were three at Tresaddern, St. Columb May 3rd, three at Bastreet May 5th, four at St. Keverne May 14th-16th, four at Zennor May 16th and five 'reeling' males at Witheybrook Marsh, Bodmin Moor during the breeding season. Breeding was not confirmed anywhere but three at Crowdy Res. Aug 2nd may indicate local success. Autumn passage was equally undistinguished, consisting of two at Drift Aug 17th and singles at Landulph Sep 4th, Lands End Sept 28th, Rame Head Oct 3rd and Nanjizal Oct

124 12th/13th.

AQUATIC WARBLER — Acrocephalus paludicola

Rare passage migrant (autumn). Marazion Marsh/Long Rock: one Aug 9th-11th, three Aug 14th with two to 19th and one to 22nd. Another Sept 23rd-25th. (Five different birds). DSF.MH. et al. Drift Res: juvenile Aug 27th. DIMW. The county mainland total advances to c.207. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 116 77 13 1 (56%) (37%)

Top sites: Marazion/Long Rock — 149 (72%), Stithians Res — 25 and Gunwalloe — nine.

SEDGE WARBLER — Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Nationally this species has declined quite dramatically over the last fifteen years reaching a very low population level in 1985. This has been reflected in observers' comments locally. The decline may be attributable to a number of factors including the loss of breeding habitat, prolonged drought in the winter quarters in the Sahel region of Africa and excerbated by inclement early summer weather here resulting in poor breeding success. The first in spring was one at Marazion Apr 14th but no more were reported until Apr 21st when small numbers were noted at Par, Sennen, Bude and Lower Tamar Lake. Most arrived after May 1st and there appeared to be slightly more birds on breeding territory. Despite this, few were observed in autumn with no apparent 'falls' and only nine in September. One at Marazion until Oct 7th was the last, and the only report for that month.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Marazion Marsh: noted Apr 14th to Oct 7th. 17 singing males during the breeding season and a maximum of 32 birds present Aug 8th. Par: noted Apr 21st to Aug 11th. Only three males during the breeding season and a maximum of ten birds on passage Aug 11th. Sennen/Skewjack: noted Apr 21st to May 29th with a maximum of 20 May 1st. Lower Tamar Lake: noted Apr 21st to Jul 26th with a maximum of ten singing males May 29th. Other breeding season maxima included four at Polgreen, St. Mawgan May 12th, seven in the Upper Fowey Valley May 15th, four at Landulph May 16th, four at Caerthillian May 21st, six at May 28tn, four at Mawgan Porth May 30th, six at Porthcothan Bay the same day and six at Walmsley Sanctuary Jun 15th.

Up to three were reported from many other traditional sites.

MARSH WARBLER — Acrocephalus palustris

Vagrant. This species almost became extinct as a breeding bird in the U.K. during the 1980's but recent colonisation of a small number of new areas should have ensured its survival. Gwithian: singing male May 28th. PAR.

The seventh county mainland record and the fourth in the last five years.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3

125 REED WARBLER — Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forty years ago this species was such a rare visitor to Cornwall that one at Camel Estuary on 1st September 1951 warranted a mention in the Introduction to that years' bird report! At that time the species bred only sporadically but it has subsequently colonised most, if not all of the county's Phragmites reedbeds.

The first in spring was one at Marazion Marsh Apr 25th — the latest first arrival since 1986. Only three more birds were noted before the end of the month and there was none away from breeding colonies in spring.

Breeding season numbers were similar to 1991, apart from Marazion/Long Rock reedbeds where survey work by DSF revealed a total of 31 males singing or holding territory. This is undoubtedly a much more realistic assessment of the species' status here than other recent estimates.

Breeding season reports were received from the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991). Figures represent number of pairs/singing males; B = bred; p = present, numbers/success not known. 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Tamar Est. reedbeds P 16 P P P 7 7 Par Beach Pool 3 5 B P P 6 6 Swanpool 7 7 B 5 — 7 Lawmans Pools, Lizard 2 2 Poldhu 2 4 B — — — — Gunwalloe P 5 — B — P P Loe Pool 2 2 B — 23 Marazion/Long Rock 31 6 B B P P P Gwithian/Menadarva 7 — — — 3 Perranporth P 3 11 — — 7 — Holywell Bay 1 Mawgan Porth 1 1 — — 1 — — Porthcothan Bay 1 — — — — 2 — Harlyn Bay 3 3 P — — 7 — Gaff, River Camel 1 Lower Tamar Lake 2 — — B — — — Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Kenidjack and two at Porthgwarra Sept 20th and ended with singles at Porthgwarra, St. Levan and Nanjizal Oct 13th. C.29 birds were reported including a small influx of 17 Sept 27th/28th. Apart from singles, and the Porthgwarra and Kenidjack birds there was six at St. Levan Sept 27th, two at Porthcurno and three at Lands End the same day plus two at Lizard Sept 28th.

ICTERINE WARBLER — Hippolais icterina

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Porthgwarra: one Sept 12th-15th. PDR et al. Cot: one Sept 12th. EJC.RJH.MPS. et al.

Other reports received lacked descriptive detail. The county mainland total advances to c.43 — all but one since 1966. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 13 25 5 (30%) (58%) Top sites: Porthgwarra — 18 (42%), Lizard — five, Marazion, Nanquidno and Cot — three apiece.

126 MELODIOUS WARBLER - Hippolais polyglotta

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Porthgwarra: one Sept 17th-30th. B. RF. Lizard: one Sept 18th. EGG.GGG. Nanquidno: one Sept 26th-30th. JH. et al.

The county mainland total advances to c.90 — all but one since 1966. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — — 3 — 1 30 41 14 1 - (33%) (46%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 40 (44%), Nanquidno — 13, Cot — six, Lizard — five.

DARTFORD WARBLER - Sylvia undata Rare resident. Occasionally breeds. Rare passage migrant. Birds have been present in the county during the breeding season annually since 1980, in which year the species bred here for the first time since 1940. Breeding was proved on the south-east coast of the county in each year from 1980/5 but there has been a subsequent decline with only sporadic sight records outside the breeding season. Breeding was also confirmed at Lizard in the early part of the last decade but this population too has dissipated. Other isolated successes have been reported, but despite a booming population nationally the species appears to be unable to firmly establish itself in Cornwall.

Kitt Hill: up to two pairs noted Mar 15th-Jun 22nd but breeding not confirmed. EG.BTC.HRMR. et al. Kynance: female Mar 21st. SP. Rame Head: one Oct 26th. KP.

127 SUBALPINE WARBLER - Sylvia cantillans

Rare vagrant. Skewjack: male May 15th. MPS.SW. Treen: female or first winter Sept 27th-30th. DSF.JFR. et al. Both accepted by BBRC.

The county mainland total advances to eleven — one in 1975 and the remainder since 1984.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — 2 4 4 — — — 1 — — — All eleven have been found in either the Lands End or Lizard district.

BARRED WARBLER — Sylvia nisoria

Rare passage migrant (autumn). Holmans Moors, Towednack: one Sept 6th-8th. SGR. et al. Treen: one Sept 26th. DSF. The county mainland total advances to 32 — all west of St. Ives/Penzance.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 2 15 13 1 — 1 Top sites: Porthgwarra — 20 (63%), St. Just valleys — six.

LESSER WHITETHROAT - Slyvia curruca

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant (mainly spring). Formerly a rare summer visitor and passage migrant with only three instances of confirmed breeding prior to 1977, in which year a pair nested at Saltash. Throughout the 1980's, the number of observations increased and the species could be looked for with some confidence in several areas. However there was a minor reversal in 1990 followed by a pronounced reduction in 1991 and a levelling off this year. Spring passage commenced with one at Rame Head Apr 25th but there was no other report for the month. C.20 singing males were located during May and June with one still singing at Marazion Jul 8th. A poor autumn passage consisting of seven birds was noted between Sept 19th and Nov 20th. Rame Head: singles Apr 25th, May 14th and May 29th-Jun 6th. Polbathic: male May 1st. Gurnards Head: male May 2nd. Treveal: two May 4th increasing to three next day with one or two to 24th. One Oct 4th. St. Keverne: male May 6th. Marazion: single males May 6th-16th and Jul 8th. Gannel Est: male May 8th. Gunwalloe: male May 13th. Gwithian: male May 14th. Coverack: one May 15th. Millbrook: two males May 15th. St. Columb Minor: male May 22nd. Skewjack: one May 23rd. Trethurgy: one May 30th. , Polruan: male Jun 5th. Port Quin: male Jun 7th. Dunmere: male Jun 8th. Porthgwarra: singles Sept 19th/20th, Oct 8th-10th and Oct 30th. Cot: one Sept 12th.

128 Penberth: one Oct 16th. Mawgan Porth: one Nov 20th. SMC. The Mawgan Porth bird is the latest ever in autumn (but one overwintered at Torpoint 1985/6).

COMMON WHITETHROAT - Sylvia communis (Formerly Whitethroat)

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Overwintered in 1952/3. Despite earlier claims, the first in spring appeared to be singles at Glendurgan Apr 19th and Marazion Apr 21st. 17 more arrived before the end of April, with good counts of ten between Rame Head and Penlee Point on 26th and three at Housel Bay the same day. The majority of territory seeking birds arrived May 3rd-17th and high counts included eight at Sennen on 4th, six at Treen on 10th and ten at Porthgwarra on 17th. Meanwhile, up to twenty singing males were noted between Rame Head and Penlee Point. Numbers continued to build at Sennen to a peak of 26 on 15th whilst Treveal held 20 on 16th. LSP & EMP described the species as 'sparse' in the Roseland district but there were no quantitative breeding counts.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at , Newquay Aug 9th and ended with one at Porthgwarra Oct 10th. C.85 birds were reported, mostly single bird/single day sightings but with regular reports and maximum numbers as follows: Porthgwarra: 20 Aug 23rd, 15 Sept 12th, three Sept 20th with one to Oct 10th. Nanquidno: eight Aug 16th, two Sept 5th. Rame Head: three Aug 23rd, four Aug 31st and singles to Sept 20th. Treveal: four Sept 6th-12th. Holmans Moors: three Sept 14th. Lands End: three Sept 29th.

GARDEN WARBLER - Sylvia borin

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Widely distributed in suitable habitat east of Truro. In the west of the county, where it was previously scarce, there are now regular reports from several areas, notably around Camborne, Falmouth, Helston and the Land End peninsula. The first in spring were two at Tamar Lake Apr 28th followed by one at Goss Moor the next day — the only reports for the month. It was another abysmal spring passage with only six noted at coastal localities. All were singles — at Treveal, Coverack, Gwithian, Trevose Head, Marazion and Caerthillian. For the second successive year few breeding pairs were in evidence. FHCK reported 'at least average numbers' in the Bude district. Five birds were present in the Upper Fowey Valley, four males held territory at Goss Moor, four males were heard singing at Skewjack May 23rd (but not known if they stayed), two pairs bred at Polbrock, and two males singing at the Red-footed Falcon site at Crows-an-wra provided a pleasant distraction. Single males were also reported from Notter Bridge, Dunmere, St. Keverne, Colliford, Goonzion Downs (St. Neot), Laneast, Holywell Bay, Sladesbridge and .

Autumn passage commenced with one at Lizard Church Cove Aug 11th and ended exceptionally late with singles at Kenidjack RJH and Porth Joke PAM Nov 8th. A total of c.59 birds was reported. Only twelve were noted before Sept 17th but passage was then regular until mid-October. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Nanquidno: seven between Aug 16th and Oct 14th with max of four Sept 27th. Treveal: three Sept 12th. Kenidjack: seven between Sept 17th and Nov 8th with max of four Oct 6th.

129 Lands End: six Sept 27th-29th.

All of the remaining observations concerned one or two birds.

BLACKCAP — Sylvia atricapilla

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few overwinter. There was no significant increase on the December 1991 total. 29 birds were observed during January with eight 'new' birds in February and two more in March. Three were at Saltash Jan 11th and three different birds were noted at Looe. There were two each at Penzance, Wadebridge, Newquay, Seaton, Penryn, St. Germans, Trevanson and Cotehele with all other reports relating to singles. The first in spring was probably a male at Lanhydrock Apr 3rd followed by low numbers at Drift, Antony, Polruan and Zennor during the ensuing week. Several arrived Apr 19th-22nd with another small influx May 6th. Maxima included ten singing males at Porth Res. Apr 19th, eight at Lower Tamar Lake Apr 28th, five near Bude May 6th, four at Loe Pool the same day and six at Sladesbridge May 11th.

The species was ominously scarce during the breeding season. Four pairs were noted along a 2Vi mile walk at St. Keverne May 15th, three were at Mawgan Porth May 30th and five singing males were counted at Lanhydrock Jun 5th. Otherwise all reports concerned one or two pairs only.

Autumn passage commenced early with three at Nanquidno Aug 16th and ended with singles at Mull ion, Porthpean and Portmellon Nov 15th. It was apparently the heaviest passage since 1988 with c.229 birds involved. The majority moved through Oct 9th-14th with peak day counts of 46 on 11th and 54 on 14th. The vast majority quickly departed after 14th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Nanquidno: c.28 between Aug 16th and Nov 15th with max of 15 Oct 14th. Porthgwarra: c.14 between Sept 16th and Nov 4th with max of six Oct 12th. Penberth: c.19 between Sept 20th and Oct 31st with max of ten Oct 19th. Kenidjack: c.12 between Sept 20th and Nov 14th with max of eight Oct 11th. Nanjizal: c.27 between Sept 26th and Oct 13th with max of 24 Oct 12th. Lizard: c.18 between Sept 28th and Oct 22nd with max of eight Oct 14th. Other site maxima included six at Porthcurno Sept 28th, six at Lands End Sept 29th and Oct 8th, six at Caerthillian Oct 14th, six at Lamorna Oct 16th and seven at Cot the same day.

Only 21 birds were reported after mid November — all singles except two each at Truro, Penzance, Fowey, Torpoint and Portwrinkle.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER - Phylloscopus inornatus

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor. Hayle Millpond: one Jan lst-20th. LPW et al. Lizard Church Cove: one Oct 5th/6th. JFR et al. Porthcurno: one Oct 5th. DJC.NGL.PH. Porthgwarra: singles Oct 6th-9th, Oct 17th-20th and Nov 6th. JFR.AMH.JH.AP.NRP. et al. Nanquidno: singles Oct 7th and Oct 19th-26th. DJC.NGL.JFR. et al. Lands End: one Oct 8th. AMH.NH.GCS. Kelynack: one Oct 8th-30th. RJH. et al. Gribbin Head: one Oct 9th-llth. GJC.SMC. , St. Levan: one Oct 11th. CI.RJ. Lamorna: one Oct 15th. AMH. Kenidjack: singles Oct 17th and Oct 26th-Nov 16th. JFR. et al. Trevose Head: one Oct 30th. FHCK. Pendeen: one Oct 31st. MPS. Mawgan Porth: one Nov 23rd. SMC. St. Andrews Pool, Par: one Dec 12th into 1993. GJC. et al.

130 Another excellent year with 17 or more individuals involved, although the usual caveat regarding possible duplication of wandering birds in the Lands End valleys always applies.

The two overwintering birds continue a trend which has become almost annual during the last decade.

The county mainland total advances to c.199.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 3 11 173 8 4 (87%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 38, Cot/Kelynack — 28, Nanquidno — 23, Lizard — 14, St. Levan and Kenidjack — ten each.

DUSKY WARBLER - Phylloscopus fuscatus Rare vagrant Kenidjack: one Nov 6th-13th. JC.JFR. et al. Harlyn Bay: one Dec 14th-21st. SMC. et al. Both accepted by BBRC. The second and third county mainland record — the only previous bird was at Cot in 1985.

From plumage variation these were distinctly different birds.

Dusky Warbler Steve Bird

131 BONELLI'S WARBLER - Phylloscopus bonelli

Rare vagrant.

1990 record: The Lizard bird accepted by BBRC.

WOOD WARBLER — Phylloscopus sibilatrix Uncommon summer resident. Occasionally breeds. Scarce passage migrant. The majority of breeding season reports derive from the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin and the valleys of the rivers Fowey, Camel, Lynher and Tamar. The number of singing males fluctuates and site fidelity from year to year is not assured.

The first in spring was a singing male at Golitha Falls Apr 19th. AB.PB.

The only spring migrants away from breeding areas were singles at Loe Pool May 3rd JSG and Cot Valley May 24th. RB.

Breeding season reports were received from the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991). Figures represent maximum number of singing males; B = bred.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Golitha Woods 2 2 — B - 1 - EJW et al Dunmere Wood B 1 3 4 1 3 - DAC.IMEC Pelyn Wood, Lostwithiel 1 - DJ Halvana 1 1 - SMC.BTC Bowdanoddan Wood 1 - JAdEM Chilsworthy 1 - AECA

The Dunmere birds were watched feeding young Jun 2nd — the first proof of breeding since 1989. In Autumn there were singles at Lizard Church Cove Aug 25th-27th SK and Kelynack Oct 4th. RI.CJ.

CHIFFCHAFF - Phylloscopus collybita

Common summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Small numbers overwinter. As anticipated the number of birds overwintering from 1991 was substantially lower than for the same period last year. A total of 46 was reported in January with another 24 located during February and early March. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Hayle: four Jan 2nd, three Jan 3rd. St. Columb sewage works: four Jan 5th-26th. Drift Res: noted Jan lOth-Feb 5th with max of five Jan 11th. St. Austell sewage works: six Jan 17th-Feb 15th. Par: six Feb 10th. Spring passage apparently commenced with one at Mar 14th followed by one at Tamar Lake the next day. It was another slow immigration with birds at only 15 sites before the end of the month. With adverse weather affecting northward movement there was no notable 'fall' until late April. The largest parties included six at St. Erth Mar 29th, four at Antony Apr 5th, ten in the Rame Head area Apr 11th, six at Marazion Apr 14th, ten at Sennen Apr 21st, 20 at Truro the same day, 70 between St. Ives and Zennor Apr 22nd and five at Gannel Est Apr 23rd. A few odd males were reported singing throughout the breeding season but apart from a general impression that numbers were well down, there was no quantitative breeding data. Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Rame Head Aug 31st and continued into mid November. Heaviest movements occurred Sept 20th-27th and Oct 8th-12th with

132 good numbers still passing at the end of October.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Kenidjack: c.23 between Sept 5th and Nov 15th with max of eleven Sept 20th. Marazion: c.23 between Sept 8th and Nov 7th with max of ten Sept 8th. Treveal: 12 Sept 12th. Lizard Church Cove: 12 Sept 27th. Porthgwarra: c.86 between Sept 19th and Nov 15th with max of 42 Oct 9th and 18 Oct 30th. Nanjizal: c.46 between Sept 26th and Oct 13th with max of 33 Oct 12th. Lands End: c.35 between Sept 26th and Oct 13th with max of 15 Oct 8th. Kelynack: 14 Oct 15th. Loe Pool: ten Oct 22nd. Subsequently a total of c. 141 birds was reported early in the second winter period. This large number included six at St. Andrews Pool, Par Nov 21st, 31 at St. Austell sewage works the same day, eleven at Marazion Nov 28th, 14 at Mawgan Porth Dec 1st, six at Argal Res Dec 12th, eight at Drift Res the same day, eight at Helston sewage works Dec 14th, six at Perranporth Dec 19th, eleven at Harlyn Bay Dec 22nd and 12 at St. Columb sewage works Dec 26th. However, after a brief spell of cold weather around the festive season, many of these birds had moved on or succumbed.

There was the usual scatter of birds showing characteristics of the small grey eastern race 'P. c. tristis': Hayle: one Jan 3rd. Helston: two Mar 2nd. Gribbin Head: one Oct 9th. Penberth: singles Oct 14th and 31st. Porthgwarra: one Oct 31st. Skewjack: one Nov 8th. Kenidjack: one Oct 9th/10th. St. Austell sewage works: three Nov 21st. Par: two Nov 21st. Landulph: one Dec 5th-12th. Harlyn Bay: two Dec 14th into 1993. Argal Res: one Dec 30th.

WILLOW WARBLER - Phylloscopus trochilus

Abundant summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Various claims have been made of birds wintering in the county but none is considered fully authentic. The first in spring was a singing male at Skewjack Mar 18th JH — the second earliest ever. With only three more before the end of the month and a mere 16 records in April up to 19th, it was undoubtedly the poorest and latest spring immigration in living memory. There was a small influx Apr 10th-22nd and then another dearth of observations. The largest parties included 55 at Trevose Head, eight at Marazion and six at Clodgy Point — all Apr 20th; eleven at Swanpool Apr 21st, 70 at Towednack Apr 22nd and 15 at Goss Moor Apr 29th. There was no other count in excess of five.

FHCK described it as more numerous in the Bude and Tamar Lakes area but this must have been the exception rather than the rule because there was a distinct absence of singing males in many traditional localities. Fifteen were noted singing in the Upper Fowey Valley between Ninestones Bridge and Trekeivesteps May 17th but this is well below recent counts in this area.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Sennen Aug 9th and ended with one there Oct 15th. Not unexpectedly, it was a dreadful passage involving only c.84 birds at twenty sites. 31 (37%) moved through Aug 18th-21st and 19 (more than normal) were late birds in October. The maxima included ten at Treveal Aug 18th, 15 at Helston Aug 21st and six at Porthgwarra Sept 24th with no more than three at any other site. One in Cot Valley Oct 8th-10th displayed a prominent pale wing bar formed by buffish tips to greater coverts.

133 GOLDCREST — Regulus regulus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). The succession of cold winters 1984/86 undoubtedly had a deleterious affect on this species but milder winters to 1990 assisted an almost complete recovery. Arctic conditions in February 1991 reversed the trend and there was a catastrophic diminution of up to 99% in some areas. However, the ensuing mild winter 1991/2 enabled good numbers to survive and breed.

Autumn passage commenced with one at Treveal Sept 12th and ended with eleven at Kenidjack Nov 14th. The majority moved through Sept 28th/29th and Oct 9th-17th. Peak counts included 30 at Gribbin Head Oct 9th, 60 at Rame Head and 27 at Nanjizal Oct 11th, 30 at Kenidjack Oct 17th, 25 at Porthgwarra Oct 19th, 50 at Loe Pool Oct 22nd and 43 at Polbathic Nov 2nd. 10/19 were also reported from Cot Valley, Lands End, Porthguarnon, Porthcurno, Penberth, Nanjizal, Lamorna, St. Levan, Pendeen and Marazion.

In December, numbers were considerably reduced but there were max of eight at Loe Pool on 4th, 20 at St. Columb sewage works on 26th and six at Argal Res on 28th with smaller parties at many other sites.

FIRECREST — Regulus ignicapillus Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn) and winter visitor. A potential breeding species (cf.probable breeding in Devon since 1985). After last years' worst second winter period total for 25 years it was not surprising that only two were present in January this year. These were at Saltash Jan 11th but later there were singles at Downderry Feb 29th and Swanpool Mar 4th. Spring passage consisted of singles at Trevose Head Mar 29th/30th, Kenidjack Apr 19th-21st and Cot May 14th — the latest ever (but see 1991 record below). Autumn passage commenced with one at Dodman Head Sept 20th and ended with one at St. Just in Roseland Nov 15th. The total of c.90 birds was five times larger than the dismal autumn passage of 1991. Six arrived in September, 48 in October and 36 (more than normal) in the first two weeks of November.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Skewjack: noted Oct 2nd-Nov 15th with max of seven Oct 6th. Penberth: four Oct 8th-10th, singles Oct 18th and Nov 8th. Mullion: five between Oct 12th and Nov 19th with max of three Nov 12th. Holmans Moors: three Oct 30th, four Nov 7th.

There were also three at Downderry Oct 4th and Treveal Nov 7th with one or two at 36 other localities.

Many of these found suitable sheltered sites to linger into December and a total of 28 was reported between Nov 20th and the end of the year. Apart from singles there were two at Mawgan Porth Nov 20th-23rd, three at Tehidy Nov 25th, two at St. Columb Porth Nov 25th, four at Loe Pool Nov 29th, two at Ponsandane Dec 10th, two at Par Dec 12th into 1993 and two at St. Just in Roseland Dec 26th.

1991 record: Tregaseal, St. Just: one Jul 11th. RJH. A quite extraordinary record. There are no previous mid-summer records for the county.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER — Muscicapa striata

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. There has been a significant decrease in the number of pairs breeding in the county in recent years. A similar decline was noted in the mid 1970's but there was an improvement

134 later in that decade and in the early 1980's. Overall, 1992 proved to be the poorest year for Spotted Flycatcher in Cornwall since 1985. The scarcity of birds was in line with a large decrease nationally.

Spring passage commenced with one at Helston Apr 19th followed by three at Kenidjack the next day.

Only six more arrived before May 11th and a mere 16 more before immigration apparently ceased May 24th. More than xh of the total were reported from Kenidjack with a peak of eight there May 18th. Elsewhere, apart from singles there were four at Trevose Head May 17th and three at Treveal May 24th.

Despite a widespread scatter of pairs during the breeding season the only successful reports derived from Golitha Falls (three pairs), St. Just in Roseland (two pairs), Cot Valley and Bastreet.

At RPI failed to see a single bird for the first time in twelve years. Small family groups were noted in favoured feeding areas in early August and included four at Trengwainton Aug 7th and eleven at Grampound Aug 8th but autumn passage commenced in earnest Aug 14th.

C.99 birds were reported with the last at Lizard Church Cove and Rame Head Oct 4th.

The majority moved quickly through during September with regular reports and maximum numbers as follows: Lizard Church Cove: c.22 between Aug 16th and Oct 4th with max of 12 Aug 20th and ten Sept 20th. Treveal: four Sept 20th. St. Just: five Sept 24th. Lands End: five Sept 29th.

RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula parva Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Annual since 1980. St. Anthony Head: male Sept 27th. SCW.

At the risk of sounding repetitive, this was the poorest year for the species since 1981. This is the first record from the south coast between Rame Head and Cadgwith.

The county mainland total advances to c.93.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 2 24 64 2 — (69%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 30, Lizard — eleven, Nanquidno and Cot/Kelynack — ten each.

PIED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula hypoleuca

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. First bred at Lanhydrock in 1966, but there were only six more confirmed instances of breeding in the county up to 1980. At Lanhydrock there was a gradual build up to a peak in 1986 but subsequently there was an inexplicable decrease which continued until 1991. 1992 produced an unexpected but welcome return to the population level of five years ago. Elsewhere the provision of nestboxes has encouraged the species to breed at new sites. Continuing colonisation appears likely to the north and west of the existing range. Breeding season reports for 1992 were received for the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991). Figures represent number of males/pairs (plus number of young where known); p = present, success not known:

135 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Lanhydrock 9(58) 4(20) 6(22) 7(44) (33) 10(60) 11(65) Golitha 1(4) 3(15) 3(12) — — P — Dunmere 2 4 2 p 4 2 p Wareham, Stokeclimsland 2(9) Diddies, Stratton P — B P P P P Lower Tamar Lake p P At Golitha, two other males were present, one only briefly but the other for several weeks. The Stratton pair made an unsuccessful breeding attempt in early July and the Launcells birds successfully avoided FHCK's nestboxes.

Spring passage was the lightest since 1983. A female was at Kenidjack Apr 21st, a male stopped briefly at Towednack May 14th and a pair moved through Trevanson Wood, Wadebridge the same day. Autumn passage commenced with one at Holmans Moors, Towednack Aug 16th and ended with one which lingered at Rame Head until Oct 14th. It was a more pronounced passage than usual with c.97 birds reported. Few were noted until mid September, when c.47 (48%) arrived between 17th and 21st. The majority of these moved quickly on but there was another small influx of c.23 birds Sept 27th-30th. Only ten were observed during October.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Lizard Church Cove: c.six between Aug 20th and Oct 6th with max of three Sept 17th. Cot Valley: c.eight between Sept 12th and Oct 7th with max of six Sept 21st. Kenidjack: c.eleven between Sept 12th and Oct 4th with max of eight Sept 17th. Sennen/Lands End: c.ten between Sept 17th and 29th with max of eight last date. Elsewhere there were three at Kennack Sands Sept 14th, four at Caerthillian Sept 17th, three at Rame Head Sept 20th, three at Nanjizal Sept 27th and three at Penberth Oct 2nd plus one or two at another 24 localities.

BEARDED TIT — Panurus biarmicus An irruptive species which occurs as an occasional passage migrant and winter visitor. Completely unexpected and unpredicted was a mini-invasion by this species during October. C.26 birds were reported — the most since the record irruption of 1972. Sadly, most moved rapidly through with only one remaining to winter. Porthgwarra: three Oct 9th/10th. NB.DJC.NGL. et al. Marazion: two Oct 13th-16th, with a female into 1993. JFR.BP.DSF. et al. Lizard: two flew north Oct 13th. SP. Copperhouse: seven Oct 14th. LPW. Tamar Lake: four Oct 18th with a male to mid November. SMC.TMC.FHCK. et al. Loe Pool: two Oct 21st/22nd. JFR. Tamar Est. reedbeds: two Oct 24th, three Nov 3rd. BTC. et al. Harlyn Bay: two Oct 28th. SMC.TMC. Perranporth: one Dec 12th. SMC. The county mainland total advances to c.208.

Site fidelity reveals that Marazion Marsh has attracted the species on eight occasions, Par on four and Tamar Est three, with 22 localities visited once or twice.

LONG-TAILED TIT — Aegithalos caudatus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Despite a suggestion that the species had suffered a setback following the cold weather in early 1991, there were some excellent counts this year, particularly from August to December.

136 The largest parties in the first winter period were ten at St. Andrews, Par Jan 17th and ten at Rosenannon Jan 25th.

A family party of twelve was counted at Loe Pool May 23rd but there were few other breeding records.

A straggling flock of thirty was counted at Camel Est. Aug 2nd and several large flocks were noted in October. Thirteen parties of ten to nineteen birds were reported. There was twenty at Penberth Oct 1st and fifty at Marazion Oct 18th. Later, during November/December ten to twenty were at Mawgan Porth, St. Columb Porth and Perranporth whilst 25 were at St. Columb sewage works Dec 26th and 34 were at Argal Res. Dec 31st.

MARSH TIT — Parus palustris

Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant.

Fairly common, occurring in most suitable habitat east of Truro, but less common in the west, notably the Lands End peninsula which produces few records. Typically few reports received, but no reason to suspect any change in status. Birds were noted at all of the usual sites in the east of the county with a maximum of five at Dunmere May 5th.

More westerly observations involved one at Drift Res Jun 28th/29th, three at College Res. Sept 29th, one at Oct 26th and two at Menadarva Nov 3rd.

WILLOW TIT — Parus montanus

Scarce resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant? The Willow Tit has a patchy distribution in Cornwall, occurring in damp, scrubby woodland to the east and north of and with the nucleii of populations in the Goss Moor, Redmoor/Helman Tor/Breney Common, Upper Fowey Valley and Bude/Tamar Lakes areas. Fully authenticated reports of birds farther west are exceptionally rare. The species undoubtedly suffered as a result of the succession of cold winters in the mid 1980's, but has also contracted in range as a result of extensive habitat destruction and fragmentation.

Reports from the four main areas are summarised as follows: Goss Moor: this now appears to be the main stronghold of the species and the acquisition of the lease of the site by English Nature should ensure its' continued presence. Six individuals were seen or heard Mar 27th and four males were noted holding territory Jun 14th. However these records derive from only a small part of this extensive moor. Two birds were noted at Moor Jan 5th and a single was at Tregonetha Downs May 5th SMC.DAC.GJC.DJ.TH.

Redmoor/Helman Tor/Breney Common: Recent data from Helman Tor and the adjacent moorlands is minimal. This year the only reports concerned two at Breney Jul 8th and one nearby at Trethurgy Dec 12th. DAC.IMEC.GRW.MW.RAJ. Upper Fowey Valley: Breeding was proved at Trezibbett where EJW watched an adult with two young May 24th. Up to two were noted on other dates and two were also at St. Lukes Sept 20th. Elsewhere singles were sighted sporadically at Trekeivesteps, Lower Langdon, Higher Langdon, Westerlake and Ninestones Bridge. DAC.IMEC.SMC. JAdEM.DJO. et al.

Other reports from Bodmin Moor and its' environs concerned singles at Colliford Dam Aug 15th. DC.SCM.JMR. and North Hill Dec 31st. JSH. Tamar Lakes: Up to two noted throughout the year. RAJ.RMRJ.FHCK.SMC. et al.

Most unusual, and miles from suitable habitat, were singles at Eglarooze, Downderry Oct

137 4th. SCM and Minster, Boscastle Oct 16th. BTC.

COAL TIT — Parus ater

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Despite a general lack of observations for the first half of the year, the overall impression is that the species is increasing in most areas. Breeding was widely reported and pairs were regular at many sites.

Autumn passage was again notable. It commenced with one at Nanquidno Sept 24th and ended with one at Rame Head Oct 31st. Almost Vi moved through Oct 7th-11th.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Nanquidno: c.14 between Sept 24th and Oct 26th with max of eight Oct 11th. Cot: c.12 between Sept 26th and Oct 17th with max of eight Oct 11th. Skewjack: 22 Oct 7th, 35 Oct 8th. Other large flocks included nine at Bosistow Oct 7th, ten at St. Levan Oct 8th, eight at Gribbin Head Oct 11th, 21 at Rame Head the same day and eight at Marazion Oct 20th.

Small numbers were widespread in the second winter period with maxima of ten at St. Columb Porth Nov 25th and five at Argal Res. Dec 28th.

BLUE TIT — Parus caeruleus

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. This species has suffered a noticeable decrease in numbers over the last three years. Although there is little quantitative data it is suspected that the decline is related to poor breeding success as a result of prolonged cold and damp spells during recent late spring/early summer. JAdEM noted it in all suitable habitat at Catchfrench and on Bodmin Moor during May, but no more than ten were reported together anywhere during the first eight months of the year.

Autumn passage was apparent from Sept 18th to Oct 31st. Almost 300 birds were reported with the vast majority noted in the valleys of the Lands End peninsula.

The largest parties were 20 at Treen Sept 30th, 25 at Penberth Oct 1st, 65 at Porthgwarra Oct 7th with another 32 at nearby Nanjizal the same day. 50 were are Nanjizal Oct 12th with 57 flying east there the next day, 24 were at Gribbin Head Oct 11th and 23 flew west at Wacker Quay Oct 17th. Flocks of 10/19 were observed at Rame Head and St. Levan. Unusual was a xanthochroistic individual at Polbrock Mar 15th. This bird had a bright yellow breast, the normally white cheeks were pale yellow and the normally blue cap was green. TMC.PGJ.

GREAT TIT — Parus major

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Very few records received for the first eight months of the year and no quantitative breeding counts, but no reason to suspect any change in status.

Small numbers accompanied the passage of Coal and Blue tits in autumn. The highest counts were eleven at Nanjizal Oct 7th, ten at Porthgwarra Oct 7th, eleven flying east at Bosistow Oct 8th, six at Gribbin Head Oct 11th and four at Rame Head Oct 17th.

WOOD NUTHATCH - Sitta europaea (Formerly Nuthatch)

Resident. Breeds. Common in suitable habitat in most areas of the county but scarce on the Lands End peninsula west of Drift and the Lizard peninsula south of Culdrose.

138 As usual reports were received from most suitable districts and no change in status was indicated.

Breeding was poorly documented although described as 'plentiful' in the Camel Valley by DIJ. There were no reports south of Mullion at The Lizard but there were several records from West Penwith. One at Towednack Apr 23rd was presumably a local migrant whilst three at St. Buryan Mar 7th, two at Lamorna Sept 8th and one or two at Penberth Sept 20th-Oct 31st were all probably resident birds. The maximum at any site included five at Golitha Woods Mar 15th, ten at Respryn Jun 5th and five at Drift Res. Jun 17th.

Unusual was one killed by a Magpie at Drift Res. Nov 19th. FP.

EURASIAN TREECREEPER - Certhia familiaris (Formerly Treecreeper) Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Common and widespread in suitable habitat throughout the county as far west as Loe Pool and Penzance. Like the preceding species no change in status reported.

Several good counts included eight at Loe Pool Jan 15th, seven at Golitha Woods Mar 15th, six at Drift Res Jul 12th and eight at Tresillian Oct 7th.

Despite its apparent scarcity on the Lands End peninsula DIMW made the interesting comment that it was 'audibly common' at Lamorna in August.

Elsewhere in West Penwith there were singles at St. Loy Sept 8th, St. Levan Sept 27th, Kelynack Oct 3rd-5th and Penberth Oct 9th.

There were no reports south of Helston on The Lizard.

GOLDEN ORIOLE — Oriolus oriolus Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring). Annual since 1971. This species may have been encountered more frequently in the nineteenth century. Some evidence of this is provided by Penhallurick (1976) who lists a number of occurrences including an incredible flock of forty at Trevethoe, Lelant in April 1870. Early twentieth century records are more sporadic but this may be due to a lack of documentation rather than a paucity of birds.

East Looe: singing male Apr 25th. JHF. Towednack: first year male May 13th. MJR. Rame Head: immature male or female May 14th. JFB.GJC. Porthgwarra: female May 16th. DSF. Treveal: female May 17th. SGR. Skewjack: one May 17th, two females May 19th, male May 23rd. SGR.RJH. et al. Kenidjack: four (adult male, first year male and two females). May 18th. RJH. Lands End: female May 29th. JFR. Gunnislake: male Jul 2nd. SC. Other reports received lacked descriptive detail. These fourteen formed part of a large incursion of c.120 birds nationally. Only 1984 with 21 birds locally proved more productive. The county mainland total advances to c. 114 since 1930. Of these, 62 have been identified as males, 35 as females and 17 not specifically sexed.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 25 73 6 4 3 2 1 — — (64%)

139 Top sites: Skewjack — 15, Kenidjack — nine, Porthgwarra — seven, Lizard — five.

ISABELLINE SHRIKE - Lanius isabellinus

Rare vagrant.

1989 record: The Zennor bird accepted by BBRC.

RED-BACKED SHRIKE - Lanius collurio

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Last bred in the county in 1969. There are unpublished records of birds holding territory on Bodmin Moor in the 1970's and in 1981 a male was noted for three days in June in the Upper Fowey Valley. There has however been a catastrophic decline in the species status as a breeding species in the U.K. and it now appears to have been extirpated. Kennack Sands: juvenile Sept 18th. SK.JK. Porthgwarra: juvenile Sept 19th/20th. RA.DSF.JH. Polgigga/Skewjack: juvenile Sept 27th-30th. NB.NH.JH. et al. St. Levan: juvenile Sept 28th-Oct 7th. JFR.BG. et al.

These records could relate to just two birds but are treated as different.

The county mainland total advances to c.75 since 1930.

Monthlv breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — — 5 7 3 10 30 19 1 — (40%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 17, St. Just valleys — seven, — four.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE - Lanius excubitor Scarce passage migrant. Occasional winter visitor. Cape Cornwall/Kenidjack: one showing some characteristics of the Central Asian race 'Lanius excubitor pallidirostris' Apr 21st-24th. RJH.EGG.GGG.JFR.DSF. et al. Accepted by BBRC. The county mainland total advances to c.63.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 8 8 9 8 — 1 — — — 11 6 8 4

Top sites: Bodmin Moor (south of A30) — 13, Goss Moor — six, Porthgwarra — five, Tamar Lakes and Bodmin Moor (north of A30) — four each.

WOODCHAT SHRIKE - Lanius senator Rare passage migrant. Annual since 1979. Portmellon: male Apr 26th/27th. PAM. et al. Porthgwarra: female May 16th-18th. DSF et al. Juvenile Sept 12th/13th. RAJ.PDR.JFR. et al. Polgigga: juvenile Sept 28th-30th. AMH.GCS. et al. Lizard: juvenile Oct 4th. SK.ARP.

The Polgigga and second Porthgwarra records may relate to the same bird but treated here as different.

The county mainland total advances to c.49.

140 Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 6 20 4 2 9 5 3 — — Top sites: Porthgwarra — 15, Lizard — nine, Sennen/Lands End — four, Marazion — three.

EURASIAN JAY — Garrulus glandarius (Formerly Jay)

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant with occasional irruptions (eg: 1972,1979, 1981 and 1983). Few records received for the first half of the year and no quantitative breeding data. LSP & EMP commented that 'although not numerous in the Roseland district status was maintained whilst PTS described it as 'common throughout the year at Tehidy'. Up to five were regularly seen or heard at Drift and four were at Penquite Sept 24th but all remaining observations concerned one or two birds. Possible migrants included singles at St. Just Oct 1st, Cot Valley Oct 7th, Treveal Oct 11th and Nanquidno Oct 18th and two at Bosistow Oct 12th and Penberth throughout October.

MAGPIE — Pica pica

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms small roosts outside the breeding season. Increasingly common despite intensive culling in gamebird rearing districts. No roosts were reported this year and peak counts were slightly below those for 1991. Nevertheless the species continued to attract much hysterical and largely unwarranted attention from the media. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: 12 Jan 5th. Chyandour, Penzance: 18 Jan 23rd. : 18 Sept 26th. Rame Head/Penlee Point: 40 Oct 8th. Porthgwarra: 24 Oct 8th. Harlyn Bay: 13 Oct 11th. Unusual was an albinistic bird at in July MM whilst one seen carrying a young adder (Viper berus) at Gwithian May 29th was certainly playing with fire. PTS. At Falmouth an opportunistic pair wreaked havoc amongst roof-nesting Herring Gulls. Whilst one bird distracted the parent gulls the other Magpie would sneak in and steal the eggs. MPV.

RED-BILLED CHOUGH — Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax (Formerly Chough) Vagrant. Last bred in Cornwall in 1947 with few subsequently and the last endemic bird at Stem Cove, Mawgan Porth until June 1973. Carnsew Pool: one drowned Apr 23rd had escaped from nearby Bird Paradise at Hayle. DSF.

EURASIAN JACKDAW - Corvus monedula (Formerly Jackdaw) Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms roosts outwith the breeding season but these are poorly documented. 'Pied' birds are not uncommon. Despite a general dearth of observations, particularly in the first half of the year, there were no reports of any change in status. There was the usual evidence of a light autumn passage during October.

Maximum numbers: Seaton: 250 Feb 1st.

141 Gwithian: 500 Jul 17th. Gulval: 50 Sept 14th. Lands End: 40 Oct 6th, 46 Oct 11th. Sennen: 260 Oct 31st. Pentire: 170 Oct 31st. Penryn: 60 Dec 17th. At Port Quin, birds used old pilchard presses as nesting sites. DL.

ROOK — Corvus frugilegus Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms large roosts outside the breeding season but these are rarely reported. The following rookeries were reported during the year (with selected changes in the number of nests since 1975). For additional information see 'B.T.O. National Census of Rookeries — the Cornish Results' by P.S.D. Jones and R.D. Penhallurick in 'Birds in Cornwall 1976' pps 87-102. (It would also greatly assist the Recorder if six-figure map references are used to identify rookeries in order that comparisons can be made with previously published information).

West Looe Hill: 105 nests (32 in 1975). Trelawne, : 34 (66 in 1975). Polperro: 68+ (new?). Parade, Lostwithiel: 16 (23 in 1975). Victoria, Lostwithiel: 21 (new?). Lerryn: 98+ (23 in 1975). Ethy, Lerryn: 5 (new?). Courtlands Cott, Lerryn: 36 (new?). Newtown, Lanhydrock: 17 (30 in 1991, 72 in 1983, 38 in 1975). Tregathenan: 28 (14 in 1991, 10 in 1989). Cross Street, Helston: 12 (9 in 1975?). Penryn: 7 and 3 (both new). Trevidder Mill, St. Buryan: 69 (62 in 1991). The Butts, Newlyn East: 39 (31 in 1975). Buckingham Close, Newlyn East: 20 (new?). Cargoll, Newlyn East: 21 (35 in 1986). Chynoweth, : 19 (new?). Penpol, Gannel Est: 32 (new?). West Pentire Road, Crantock: 3 (new?). St. Columb Minor: 36 (none in 1988, 29 in 1975). Perlees, Camel Est: 15 (15 in 1991). St. Issey Church: 18 (5 in 1989, 20 in 1975). , St. Issey: 19 (new?). , Whitecross: 10 (new?). Carhart Farm, Camel Est: 10 (3 in 1990, 30 in 1988 and 1975). St. Breock Church: 41 (new?). Dinham, Camel Est: 44 (30 in 1991). Manor Farm, : 20 (11 in 1975). St. Kew: 38 (new?). Treharrock, St. Kew: 64 (60+ in 1979). Near Treharrock: 4 (new?). , St. Kew: 6 (25 in 1975). Hendra, St. Kew: 6 (20 in 1975). Benbole, St. Kew: 8 (68 in 1975). Lanarth, St. Kew: 7 (new?). Harlyn Bay: 36 (35 in 1991, 13 in 1989, 51 in 1975). Bosneive Farm, Withiel: 9 (new?). Coronation Park, Wadebridge: 30 (38 in 1991, 5 in 1989). Launcells Church: 52 (53 in 1991, 36 in 1986). Bude Church: 37 (new?). Lower Tamar Lake: 15 (6 in 1975).

142 Other rookeries located but not counted were at Lower Langdon and Carkeet in the Upper Fowey Valley. Former rookeries, now extinct were reported from Penpont, St. Kew (6 in 1975), Tipton, St. Kew (4 in 1975) and Pendoggett (15 in 1975).

The overall situation appears to have changed little with some rookeries flourishing whilst others decline. Increased observer awareness is probably responsible for the increased number of new rookeries each year.

The only large flocks reported during the year were 468 at Gwithian Jun 6th and 200 at Fowey Dec 17th. A partial albino was seen at Lynher Est Jan 10th. KH.

CARRION CROW - Corvus corone

Abundant resident. Breeds. Very few observations received but no reason to suspect any change in status. The sole records of note were a flock of 134 at Lynher Est. Oct 31st and one carrying a live rodent, possibly a young rat, at , near Bude May 5th.

HOODED CROW — Corvus corone cornix

The northern race of Carrion Crow. Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Lands End: one Jun 6th. DSF. Sennen: one Aug 31st, Sept 17th and 24th. GCS.AMH.PAG.KAT.DSF.

These records could all relate to one bird, but where was it between June and the end of August? The county mainland total advances to c.48 since 1930.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 2 6 1 9 5 3 1 3 1 5 6 6

Top sites: Camel Est — five, Porthgwarra and Sennen/Lands End — four each, Lizard — three.

COMMON RAVEN — Corvus corax

Resident. Breeds. Roosts have been reported in the past but recent information is sadly lacking. Fewer breeding reports this year but no reports of any change in status.

On the south coast breeding was confirmed at St. Anthony Head and Nare Head. Along the north coast there were successful nests at Godrevy, Crantock and Pengirt whilst the inland site on the electricity pylon was again used at Goss Moor. One pair also nested at Crowdy.

NRP reports that at least two traditional sites in West Penwith are now occupied by Peregrine Falcons.

Elsewhere there were observations from at least 65 areas including many in the breeding season. Largest flocks in the first half of the year were 26 at Colliford and nine flying south over St. Johns Lake Jan 25th.

There was the usual scatter of small family parties moving around the county in early autumn. The maxima included six at Pendeen Aug 3rd and ten flying west over Par Sept 30th.

Of particular interest was a gathering of fifty birds soaring with Common Buzzards over

143 the Upper Fowey Valley May 3rd. GHT watched them circling together for about ten minutes before they dispersed in all directions. Perhaps they had been disturbed from a communal feeding site, maybe a sheeps' carcass?

COMMON STARLING - Sturnus vulgaris

Common resident. Breeds. Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Forms huge roosts, particularly in moorland confifer plantations, in winter. First winter roosts included the huge, but uncounted congregation in the Crowdy Reservoir area and an enormous new gathering at Woolley Wood on the Cornwall/Devon border north of Morwenstow.

The latter site attracted hundreds of thousands of birds which had previously roosted at Hardsworthy Plantation on the Devon side of the border. In December 1991 they were dislodged by shooting and moved to the Cornish side. In an article entitled 'A Million Starlings' which appeared in 'Devon Birds Vol 45 No. 1 pps 20-23'. SGM estimated that there may have been as many as two million birds in this roost. Elsewhere there was 300 regularly at during January but a peak of 1000 on 18th, and a small uncounted roost on Looe Island.

In autumn and the second winter period 10000 went to roost in conifers at Pendeen Oct 9th, 4000+ roosted at Marazion Oct 15th and 289 were counted at The Shell Shop, Penzance Nov 8th. The Woolley roost again attracted hundreds of thousands building to a peak of one million in February 1993. Autumn passage was light. Flocks of 100/200 were noted at Par, Sennen and Trevose Head during August and September but the main passage was delayed until late October. Peak counts included 1000 at Dowran Oct 8th, 2300 at Drift Oct 18th, 7800 flying south at Trevose Head Oct 31st and 3000 at Pentire the same day.

ROSY STARLING — Sturnus roseus (Formerly Rose-coloured Starling) Vagrant. Sennen: juvenile Sept 20th. SH.

1991 record; Penzance: juvenile Oct 7th-10th. M.V. Sneary et al. Both accepted by BBRC. The county mainland total advances to c.38. MonthlJan yFe breakdownb Mar Ap: r May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec n/d 6 1 7 6 11 1 — 6 Top sites: Lands End — six, Davidstow Airfield — three.

HOUSE SPARROW - Passer domesticus

Common resident. Breeds. Cornish populations were inadequately documented prior to 1980. Subsequently, decreases were noted in many areas until 1985, but there has been a welcome upsurge in numbers since then. This type of fluctuation has been noted in the county previously (See Penhallurick 1976 pps. 326/8). Very few observations were received this year but there was no reason to suspect any change in status. Eight pairs bred around the Boswednack Field Centre but there was no other quantitative breeding data.

144 The largest flocks reported included 100 at Turnaware Feb 1st, 50 at Nanstallon Aug 14tl 200+ at Penmillard Farm, Rame Head in Sept/Oct, 154 at Gwithian Sept 10th, 50 at Zennc Sept 29th and 90 at Mullion Sept 30th.

The counts at Penmillard and Gwithian are the third and fifth largest in the county th century.

Unusual was one flying south at Nanjizal Oct 8th — presumably a local migrant?

TREE SPARROW — Passer montanus Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Bred at Lands End in 1990. Porthgwarra: one Oct 17th. JH. A typical place and date. The county mainland total advances to c.285. Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 4 6 5 6 58 15 5 10 3 123 28 22 (43%)

Top sites: Porthgwarra — 150 (52%), Wadebridge — 23, Nanquidno — 14, Lands End — 13 and Rame Head — ten.

YELLOW-THROATED VIREO - Vireo flavifrons

Exceptionally rare vagrant.

1989 record: The Kenidjack bird accepted by BBRC and BOURC as the first for Britain and Ireland and the Western Palearctic.

RED-EYED VIREO - Vireo olivaceus

Rare vagrant.

1991 record:

The Lizard bird accepted by BBRC.

CHAFFINCH - Fringilla coelebs Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roost in winter. No roosts were reported this year and there was no quantitative breeding data. Of the four large flocks reported towards the end of 1991 only one was reported again in 1992. However there may have been some re-distribution because there were several other large gatherings. Maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: 200 from 1991 increased to 500 Jan 11th. Bofarnel, Lostwithiel: 200 Jan 3rd. Cooksland, Bodmin: 150 Jan 3rd. Mullion: 250 Jan 16th. Shillingham, Lynher Est: 250 Jan 19th and Mar 9th. West Pentire: 500 Jan 22nd. Millbrook: 120 Feb 22nd. Autumn passage commenced with 100 at Penberth Oct 5th and 100 at Porthcurno the same day. Heaviest passage was reported Oct 8th-13th with lesser numbers to Nov. 8th when 290 flew south at Dodman Head.

145 Regular reports and maximum numbers: Nanjizal: c.5513 flew over between Oct 7th and 14th with max of 1641 on 8th, 1308 on 12th and 1186 on 13th. Porthgwarra: c.5449 flew over between Oct 7th and 30th with max of 1352 on 8th and 1480 on 11th. Pentire: 585 flew north Oct 31st. Porth Mear: 240 Nov 4th.

The largest second winter flocks were 200 at Camel Est Dec 13th, 250 at Sheviock Dec 26th and 300 at Tamar Lake Dec 30th into 1993.

BRAMBLING — Fringilla montifringilla Winter visitor. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Numbers fluctuate wildly from year to year. Four of the five noted at Wenmouth Cross in December 1991 remained until New Years Day but then only one was noted until Apr 1st. A single bird also overwintered at St. Columb and remained into February. Elsewhere there was up to three at Bofarnel, Lostwithiel Jan lst-5th, two at Holmbush Jan 2nd, one at Tamar Lake Jan 11th, up to three at West Pentire Jan 14th-Mar 1st and a male at Gribbin Head Jan 29th. There was a small influx into southeast Cornwall late in February. One was at St. Germans Feb 20th-Mar 1st, 25 were found at Saltash Feb 20th, six were at Millbrook Feb 22nd and a flock of 20 visited Trerulefoot Feb 25th. Elsewhere there was a female at Trevanson, Wadebridge for four weeks from Feb 28th and up to five at St. Austell Mar 2nd-Apr 5th.

Autumn passage commenced with one at Towednack Oct 3rd and ended with one flying east at Mawgan Porth Nov 27th. The total of c.879 almost certainly included duplicated counts at Porthgwarra and Nanjizal but nonetheless it was still the best autumn passage since 1986. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: c.273 flew over between Oct 7th and 31st with max of 36 on 8th, 41 on 11th and 59 on 19th. Nanjizal: c.304 flew over between Oct 7th and 16th with a max of 103 on 8th, 42 on 11th and 42 on 16th. Sennen: 25 between Oct 9th and Nov 8th with max of seven Oct 26th. Pelynt: 100 Oct 31st increasing to 150 by Nov 7th. Pentire: 18 Oct 31st.

Despite the good autumn very few remained into December. Three were at Amy Tree Dec 15th, one was at Quethiock the same day, three were at Swanpool Dec 22nd and a flock of ten was found near Liskeard Dec 24th.

EUROPEAN SERIN — Serinus serinus (Formerly Serin)

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. A potential breeding species (cf. recent successes in south and east Devon). Porthgwarra: female May 13th. JFR. One flew north Oct 19th. SMC. Rame Head: two Sept 20th. DRC. Madron/Heamoor: one Sept 25th-27th. NRP.NJP. Other descriptions received proved inconclusive.

The county mainland total advances to c.72.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — 7 7 5 8 1 — — 5 13 19 7 Top sites: Porthgwarra — 16, Marazion — nine, Lelant — seven, Rame Head and Camborne — four. 146 GREENFINCH — Carduelis chloris

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roosts in winter. Although relatively poorly documented in the past this is a species which has increased quite dramatically in recent years probably as a result of the vast number of artificial feeding stations provided during the winter months. The species was grossly under-reported during 1992 but there was no suspicion of any change in status.

The only large flock reported for the first half of the year was 40 with the Skylark and mixed finch flock on set-a-side fields at West Pentire Jan 22nd.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with 70 at Rame Head Sept 26th and ended with 47 flying over Pentire Oct 31st. It was the lightest movement since 1985 with only small numbers observed at coastal migration sites. At Porthgwarra a total of 75 was noted between Oct 7th and 21st with max of 24 on 8th and 22 on 12th. In addition to the count above, 38 were noted at Pentire Oct 13th but there was no more than 15 at any other locality. Not surprisingly there was very few in the countryside in the second winter period. The maximum included 75 with Chaffinches at Pelynt Nov 7th, 50 at Sheviock Dec 26th and 70 at Tamar Lake at the end of the year.

GOLDFINCH - Carduelis carduelis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Few reports received for the first half of the year but no change in status noted. The large mixed flock of finches at West Pentire in January contained a maximum of 100 Goldfinch on 22nd, with up to 50 remaining into February. Elsewhere there was 26 at Perranuthnoe Feb 29th and 20 at Par Mar 14th but no more than 15 at any other site.

Few breeding season records received but a flock of 30 at Polridmouth Jun 4th contained juveniles. Other large post-breeding flocks included 60 at Park Head Aug 2nd, 60 at Upper Tamar Res the same day, 25 at Marazion Aug 4th and 80 at Rame Head Aug 8th. Autumn passage may have commenced with 100 at Mevagissey Aug 26th and continued to the end of October. Most moved through Sept 6th/7th, Sept 26th-30th and Oct 4th-11th.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Lynher Est: 60 Sept 6th. Porth Res: 150 Sept 7th. Holmans Moors: 200 Sept 14th. Rame Head: noted Sept 20th-Oct 4th with max of 140 first and last dates. Trevose Head: 45 Sept 27th, 70 Oct 9th. Porthgwarra: 60 Oct 7th.

After the cessation of autumn movement the sole gathering of note was 150 in a large mixed finch flock at Pelynt Nov 7th.

SISKIN — Carduelis spinus Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Prior to 1970 Siskins were only rarely reported in winter, but the species can now be looked for with some confidence at several regular sites, and is becoming increasingly familiar as a garden visitor to the ultra-attractive red peanut bags, particularly in late winter. This increase was maintained in 1992 with a total of c.328 birds reported to the beginning of April. Many of these were garden feeders from late January on. The largest flocks included 20 at Landulph Jan 1st, 30 at Lanivet Jan 2nd, 20 at St. Andrews Pool, Par Jan 24th, 22 at Hayle Jan 25th, 21 at Gwithian Jan 31st and 15 flying over Lynher

147 Est. Feb 6th. Small numbers remained in conifer plantations in mid Cornwall and on Bodmin Moor and there was a widespread scatter of reports from most parts of the county including above-average numbers in the far west. Apart from the Hayle and Gwithian birds, other observations from the west included nine at Marazion Jan 7th, 12 at Kennal Vale Jan 23rd, ten at Lelant Jan 27th, up to five at Falmouth Jan/Apr, 12 at Swanpool Mar 8th and a maximum of 20 at Drift Mar 17th. Spring passage was barely discernible but two at Treveal Apr 16th and singles at Truro Apr 21st, Newquay May 10th and Sennen May 14th were presumed to be migrants.

Breeding was not suspected in Cornwall until 1970 and was not confirmed until 1984. Reports this year emanated from an ever expanding area with observations from the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991). B = breeding confirmed; b = probably bred; figures represent highest number of birds seen during breeding season; p = present, not counted: 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Smallacombe B B P b B B B Halvana 15 10 P b b b b Dunmere/Pencarrow 3 4 B B — 1 — Bofarnel P — P — — — — Davidstow Airfield P 3 Lanhydrock/Respryn 6 5 Hustyn Downs 4 Great Grogley Downs P At Smallacombe, two pairs were seen with a total of six young and whilst breeding was not actually confirmed at any of the remaining localities the presence of birds throughout the summer months strongly suggests that at least some were successful.

Autumn passage commenced with one at Treveal Sept 12th and ended with four at Towednack Nov 6th. It was the lightest passage since 1987 with a total of c.379 birds reported from 27 sites. The majority moved through Oct 7th-14th and Oct 24th-26th with regular reports and maximum numbers as follows: Rame Head: 20 Sept 20th, two Oct 17th, eight Oct 24th. St. Columb Porth: 12 September, three Nov 13th. Kenidjack: two Oct 4th, 35 Oct 26th. Porthgwarra: c.123 between Oct 7th and 31st with max of 34 Oct 8th. Cot Valley: c.24 between Oct 7th and 26th with max of 12 last date. Nanjizal: c. 147 between Oct 8th and 14th with max of 40 Oct 8th, 34 on 11th and 30 on 12th. Angarrack: ten Nov 7th. There was no more than ten together at any other site. In the second winter period a total of c.99 birds was reported including 30 at Respryn Nov 14th, 15 at Tresillian Dec 12th and 38 at St. Andrews Pool, Par Dec 27th but no more than five at any other locality.

LINNET — Acanthis cannabina

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. This species has decreased in most parts of the U.K. over the last decade probably as a result of loss of habitat and the effects of weedkillers on food sources.

First winter flocks were about the average of the previous two years with max of 150 at Tamar Lake Jan 11th, 100 at Caerthillian Jan 24th, 100 at Jan 26th, 90 at Egloshayle Jan 28th and 80 at West Pentire Feb 1st. The largest flocks were 50 at Dodman Head Mar 14th, 52 at Par Mar 21st, 70 at Camel Est Mar 30th and 105 at Clodgy Point, St. Ives and may have included some immigrants.

Breeding information was sparse but JAdEM described it as 'quite common in the usual gorse scrub habitats' and there was no reported change in status.

148 Post-breeding gatherings were noted from late July and included 40 at Towednack, 70 at Porth Mear and 80 at Rame Head. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 100 at Pendeen, 100 at Porth Mear and 35 at Trevose Head — all Aug 31st, and continued to the end of October. It was another light movement but marginally better than 1991. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: noted Aug 15th to Oct 1st with max of 250 last date. Sennen: noted Sept 2nd to Oct 31st with max of 100 Oct 2nd. Boswednack: 300 Sept 4th, 80 Oct 10th. Trevose Head: noted Sept 19th to Oct 22nd with max of 140 Oct 9th. Treen: noted Sept 28th to Oct 7th with max of 150 first date. Other single day max included 161 at Lizard Sept 12th, 100 at Loe Bar Sept 19th, 180 at Colliford Sept 20th, 114 at Lands End Oct 1st, 150 at Cape Cornwall Oct 4th, 100 at Woon Gumpus Oct 20th and 100 at Sheviock in October. The last mentioned flock continued to increase and peaked at 350 Dec 27th. Elsewhere in the second winter period there was 70 at Pelynt in Nov/Dec and 65 at Bedruthan Steps Dec 23rd.

COMMON REDPOLL — Carduelis flammea (Formerly Redpoll) Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. 22 birds were noted in the first winter period — the most at this time of year since 1979. 17 were counted at Halvana Jan 1st with four still present Jan 30th. A singleton was seen at Smallacombe Jan 1st and up to four were regularly noted at St. Andrews Pool, Jan 19th-26th. Spring passage consisted of two at Constantine Apr 24th and singles at Goss Moor Apr 29th and Jun 15th, although these may have been birds prospecting a potential new breeding site.

Breeding was first confirmed in Cornwall in 1968 and numbers have fluctuated annually since. Most records derive from the conifer plantations of Bodmin Moor and similar habitat in the Bude and Bodmin/Wadebridge districts. Systematic checking of plantations in the Ladock and Truro areas has produced odd sightings. This year there were breeding season reports from the following localities (with comparative data for 1986-1991). Figures represent maximum number of birds seen; B = breeding confirmed; p = present, not counted.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Smallacombe 5 5 P P P 4 3 Halvana 20 20 p p 4/8 2 7 Trebartha 1 1 Ninestones Bridge 2 4 — — P P — Trezibbett 1 — P — B Whitebarrow Downs 1 Davidstow Airfield 3 2 Hustyn Downs 5 4 P P B B 2 The Trebartha, Ninestones and Trezibbett records could relate to birds from the main plantations. Singles flying over Bastreet May 25th and Witheybrook Jun 21st may also have derived from this source.

In autumn three at Crowdy Aug 2nd and one at Colliford were undoubtedly local birds. Autumn passage consisted of singles at Nanjizal Oct 8th, Porthgwarra Oct 17th, Tamar Lake Oct 18th and Par Oct 29th — the poorest movement since 1965. Consequently the second winter haul of singles only at St. Andrews Pool, (Par), Par and Mawgan Porth was not totally unexpected.

149 COMMON CROSSBILL — Loxia curvirostra An irruptive species which is not recorded annually in Cornwall. Bred in the county in 1985 and 1991. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Good numbers overwintered from 1991 and breeding was confirmed at Halvana. However there was none in autumn and only one in the second winter. This reversal was due to a poor cone crop affecting breeding success. Smallacombe: 12 Jan 1st, pair Mar 27th. EG.JSH. Smiths Plantation: pair Jan 14th. SMC. Siblyback: two Jan 18th per CFNHC. Tregonetha: one flew west Jan 22nd. SMC. Hustyn Downs: six (three males) Feb 6th. DTC. Great Grogley Downs: eight Feb 16th, five Mar 15th, two Apr 2nd. EJC.TMC.PGJ. Halvana: pair with one juvenile May 4th, 14 including several juveniles May 18th. BTC.DJB.SMC.PH. St. Andrews Pool, Par: one Dec 28th. DU. Recent breeding data is summarised as follows: B = breeding confirmed; b = breeding probable; p = present, not counted.

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 Halvana B B P — P b P Smallacombe P P — P P P Great Grogley Downs P

COMMON ROSEFINCH — Carpodacus erythrinus (Formerly Scarlet Rosefinch)

Vagrant. There was a record spring influx into the U.K. followed by the first proof of breeding in an English county, Humberside. There were three definite records from Cornwall — also a record.

Mullion: female May 28th. ARP. Portquin: singing male Jun 7th. GRW.MW. St. Levan: one Oct 1st and 6th. AMH.GCS.NH.

Other reports received lacked conclusive detail.

The county mainland total advances to c. 12 — all but two since 1985. Top sites: Porthgwarra and Cot — two each.

BULLFINCH — Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Winter visitor. Grossly under-reported as usual but no reason to suspect any change in status.

Small numbers were reported from typical sites throughout the year. Up to three were regular at many localities with larger parties of four at Penzance Jan 13th/14th, five at Turnaware Feb 1st, six at Flushing Oct 27th, five at Walmsley Sanctuary Nov 1st and seven at Towednack in November and December.

Only a handful of breeding records were received and no useful quantitative data was submitted.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Porthgwarra and seven at Nanjizal Sept 27th and continued to the end of October. Numbers were exceptionally low. Most observations concerned one or two birds but there was also three at Treveal Oct 8th, three in off the sea at Nanjizal Oct 8th, four flew east at Bosistow Oct 11th, four at Lizard Oct 16th, three at Porthgwarra Oct 19th and three at Wheal Uny Oct 21st.

150 LAPLAND LONGSPUR — Calcarius lapponicus (Formerly Lapland Bunting)

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor. Very rare inland. Kelsey Head: singles Sept 20th and Oct 26th. PAM.DE. Treen: one Sept 27th/28th, six Sept 29th, five Sept 30th with one to Oct 7th. DSF.BG.JH.JFR. et al. Lands End: singles Sept 27th and Oct 5th-8th. BG. Trevose Head: three Sept 27th-Oct 9th, four Oct 30th with two to 31st. SMC.ML.PAM. et al. Skewjack: four flew east Sept 29th. BG. Rame Head: one Oct lst-4th. SB.RS.VRT. et al. Lizard: one Oct 4th. ARP. Bosistow: two Oct 5th and 8th, one flew south Oct 16th. BG. Porthgwarra: one Oct 8th-10th. SMC.BG. Reskajeage: four Oct 18th. B. Pentire: one Oct 31st. SMC.TMC.

A slight improvement on 1991, but still the second lowest autumn total of the last eight years. The county mainland total advances to c.921 — all since 1960. 697 (76%) of the total have occurred in the last eight years — a remarkable statistic.

Top sites: Porthgwarra — records in 21 different years, Trevose Head and West Pentire/Kelsey Head — 14, Reskajeage — 12, Sennen, Lizard and Rame Head/Penlee Point — ten years each.

SNOW BUNTING — Plectrophenax nivalis Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. Four in the first winter period and one early in spring but the lightest autumn passage since 1981 and only two in the second winter period.

West Pentire: two Jan 22nd/23rd, three Jan 29th and four Feb 11th in a huge mixed flock of Skylarks, finches and buntings on set-a-side fields. EMC.SMC.JH. et al. Reskajeage: one Mar 11th. RM. Boswednack: one Sept 29th. EGG.GGG. Rosewall Hill, St. Ives: one Oct 3rd. MJR. Bosistow: three Oct 5th. BG. Lands End: one Oct 6th. BG. St. Agnes: one Oct 9th. CW. Porthleven: one flew west Oct 12th. JSG. Pentire: singles Oct 16th and 31st. SF.SMC.TMC. Trevose Head: one Oct 25th-31st. DU.PAM. St. Ives: one Oct 25th. DSF.EGG.GGG. Loe Bar: one Oct 31st. JSG. Maer Lake: one Oct 31st. SMC.TMC. Perranporth: male Nov 4th. PT. Kenidjack: one Nov 14th. MRAB.EJC. Mullion: one Nov 17th/18th. ARP. Cape Cornwall: two males Nov 20th-Dec 23rd. RB.JFR. et al.

YELLOWHAMMER — Emberiza citrinella Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Numbers were apparently maintained throughout the year but coverage of the breeding season was poor. In the first winter period there were maxima of 18 at Tamar Lake Jan 11th, 40 at Shillingham, Lynher Est Jan 19th and 15 at West Pentire Jan 22nd. A late flock at Lantivet Bay Apr 24th consisted of 35 birds, mostly males.

151 'Good numbers' were observed in the St. Agnes Beacon area during the breeding season and scattered males held territory at Perranuthnoe. Two pairs bred at Boswednack and two pairs were present at Catchfrench in May, but all other breeding season observations concerned single pairs.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with six at Pendeen Sept 25th and ended with four at Kenidjack Nov 4th. Apart from a large party at Rame Head it proved to be an unexceptional movement. Maximum numbers included 38 at Rame Head Sept 26th, eight at Treen Oct 1st, 12 at Zennor Oct 4th, seven at Porthgwarra Oct 8th, five at Kenidjack Oct 12th and Nov 6th, six at Nanquidno Oct 18th and ten at Par Nov 6th. During December there were maxima of ten at Pentire, eight at Camel Est on 13th, 13 at Maker Heights Dec 29th, 15 at Treganhawke, Whitsand Bay Dec 31st and 30 accompanying a large flock of Corn Buntings on stubble fields near Bedruthan Steps.

CIRL BUNTING — Emberiza cirlus

Rare resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant. Formerly more common and widespread, there has been a protracted decline over the last twenty years. In 1967 up to 15 pairs were located in the southeast of the county alone and despite poor coverage in subsequent years, birds were observed at fifteen sites in the county in 1975. This reduction is part of a general contraction in range throughout the U.K. and it appears that the species will continue to move inexorably towards extinction as a breeding bird in Cornwall. That said, small pockets of birds continue to maintain a tenuous toehold along the south coast of the county. Following an improvement in 1991, last years' optimism was misplaced — the CBWPS survey showed a depleted population!

Near Falmouth: site 1: singing male Apr 9th, May 1st and Jul 5th. Pair feeding two young Jun 19th. D. Lamacraft, SMC.GHT. et ai. (1991) site 2: none despite repeated checks. (1991) site 3: none. St. Keverne area: site 1 (1991 site 2): bred, young being fed in nest Jun 19th. D. Lamacraft. site 2 (close to 1991 site 4): bred, pair seen with fledged juvenile Jul 18th. ARP. Recent data can be summarised thus: 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 Number of sites 3 9 2 4 2 2 Maximum possible number of pairs 3 11 2 4 3 3

ORTOLAN BUNTING — Emberiza hortulana

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Trevose Head: two juveniles Sept 18th. GJC. Treen: two Sept 19th/20th. DSF.JFR. et al. Zennor: two Sept 29th-Oct 4th. EGG.GGG.

Nationally it was an excellent autumn for the species and it was the fourth best year ever in Cornwall.

The county mainland total advances to c.79, 51 (65%) of which have occurred in the last ten years.

Monthly breakdown: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec — — — 1 3 — — 4 55 16 — — (70%)

Top sites: Sennen and Porthgwarra — eleven each, Nanquidno and Lizard/Caerthillian — eight each and Trevose Head — six.

152 RUSTIC BUNTING — Emberiza rustica

Rare vagrant: Bosistow, St. Levan: female Oct 7th/8th. NH.GCS. et al. Accepted by BBRC. The third county mainland record — all since 1990 and all in October.

1991 record:

The Sennen bird accepted by BBRC.

LITTLE BUNTING — Emberiza pusilla

Rare vagrant. Tregonetha Downs: one with a large flock of Reed Buntings Jan 18th-Mar 29th. RBu.MG.SMC. et al. Bude: one Feb 2nd-Mar 8th. FHCK et al. Cape Cornwall: one Oct 22nd-26th. MPS. et al. The Tregonetha and Cape Cornwall birds accepted by BBRC.

The first since 1987, taking the county mainland total to nine.

The Tregonetha and Bude birds accord well with other recent wintering records in the U.K.

MonthlJan y Febreakdownb Mar : Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1 1 4 2 1

Little Bunting Steve Bird

153 REED BUNTING — Emberiza schoeniclus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. This species apparently enjoyed an excellent year. A flock at Tregonetha Downs which had numbered 30 at the end of December 1991 quickly increased in the new year to 100 Jan 10th, 150 Jan 11th, 250 Jan 22nd and peaked at 300 two days later. These birds roosted on the downs at night and dispersed across local moors and fields during the day. The main attraction appeared to be the seeds of moorland grasses at Tregonetha Downs. The downs had been burnt out in spring 1991 and the resultant vegetation was fresh and productive. The peak count equals the previous largest flock in Cornwall. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were maxima of 25 at Tamar Lake Jan 11th, 40 at Jan 25th, 35 at West Pentire Jan 27th, ten at Shillingham, Lynher Est Feb 23rd and 15 at Smallacombe Mar 8th.

Breeding season reports were more numerous this year. Eight males held territory at Marazion Marsh and seven were counted in the Upper Fowey Valley Jun 6th. Other good counts included six at Cury May 28th, three pairs at Par Beach Pool and three pairs at Loe Pool. One or two pairs/sineing males were noted at many other localities. A gathering of 20 at Marazion Marsh Aug 19th were probably local birds.

Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Towednack Sept 12th and ended with three at Porth Mear Nov 4th. A total of c.90 birds was reported with most moving through in mid October. Second winter flocks were small.

Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: c.27 between Oct 7th and 21st with max of nine Oct 18th Bosistow: 23 flew east between Oct 8th and 13th with max of six Oct 11th and 13th. There were also four at St. Levan Oct 13th, four at Zennor Oct 18th, 16 at Par Oct 29th and six at Trevose Head Oct 31st.

Unusual was a male at Caerthillian Apr 20th which had a strange song, described by ARP as iike a fast Yellowhammer trill with a terminal flourish'.

BLACK-HEADED BUNTING — Emberiza melanocephala

Rare vagrant. Gwithian: male May 20th. PAR.

Accepted by BBRC.

This was one of a record spring influx of at least ten birds into the U.K. There are two previous county mainland records, at Porth Mear in October 1975 and Porthgwarra in September 1976.

CORN BUNTING - Miliaria calandra

Resident. Breeds. Flocks outside the breeding season. Cornwall remains the stronghold for this species in the south west with the majority found alon| a narrow coastal strip in the north of the county between Rumps Point and Godrevy

A reduction of at least 45 % nationally over the last two decades is reflected in continually diminishing numbers in Cornwall. This trend, related to changes in agriculture and land use appears to be irreversible and is particularly unfortunate because until recently the local population has proved stable. For the third successive year none was reported from the Lizard peninsula. On the Lands End peninsula the species maintains a tenuous foothold. A single male was found singing at Skewjack May 15th whilst two more males were at Sennen the same day.

154 One of these, or another was also heard Jun 26th. DSF.

Coverage of the Gwithian to Portreath was much improved. A flock of 13 birds was found at Gwithian Mar 14th and a total of 20 singing males were located during the breeding season. In autumn a flock of 26 had gathered at Hells Mouth Sept 20th and there was an increase to 35 Oct 18th. None were reported from the St. Agnes to Holywell Bay area but set-a-side fields at West Pentire attracted up to 18 birds in January. These dispersed in February and only one singing male held territory at Porth Joke through the summer.

21 singing males were reported between Newquay and Trevose Head — a considerable reduction on 1991, but this may be due more to a lack of observer effort than a paucity of birds. Trevose Head and the area from Park Head to Bedruthan Steps were again well populated with twelve and five pairs respectively. Single birds were at Trebelsue, St. Eval Airfield, Efflins and Trevemedar.

Several excellent flocks were noted in the area during the second winter period. At Trevose Head there was a build up from five Sept 27th to 22 Oct 1st and 65 Oct 7th with up to 45 regular thereafter. 33 were counted at Porth Mear in October, and stubble fields there continued to attract wandering birds with the flock peaking at 100 Dec 31st JH — the largest party in the county since 1975. Elsewhere there was a maximum of 23 at Mawgan Porth Nov 23rd and 14 at Harlyn Bay Nov 24th. Either or both of these congregations could have been birds roosting in nearby reedbeds. North of the Camel Estuary, birds were noted at Pentire throughout the year. 17 were found Feb 19th but only three males held territory in the summer months. At the end of the year 20 were reported roosting on , .

155 EXOTICA

BLACK SWAN Saltash: one throughout the year and into 1993. Cape Cornwall: one flew north Jan 12th with a Mute Swan. Marazion Marsh: one Jan 13th/14th, Feb 13th/14th and Oct 31st. Newlyn: one Jan 17th. Camel Est: one Jan 20th. Loe Pool: one Feb 15th, Jun 13th and Aug 15th. Hayle Est: one Feb 17th, Aug 27th-31st, Oct 22nd-Nov 6th. Porthleven: one Jun 6th.

SNOW GOOSE St. Johns Lake: tame blue phase bird Mar 25th-27th.

BAR-HEADED GOOSE See systematic list. Hybrid Geese Canada x Chinese Goose at Colliford throughout year. Canada x Bar-headed Goose at Colliford May 16th-Jun 27th.

CHILOE WIGEON Stithians Res: drake Nov 30th. YELLOW-BILLED DUCK Drift Res: one Jan 17th.

BUDGERIGAR Camborne: yellow bird Jun 23rd.

COCKATIEL Camborne: one Jun 27th and Sept 8th. Polurrian: one Jul 25th-31st. THICK-BILLED PARROT Camel Est: two Sept 9th.

VILLAGE WEAVER Goss Moor: immature male Mar 25th-Apr 2nd.

COMMON MYNAH Sennen: one May 29th. Marazion: one Jul 30th.

CANARY St. Wenn: a white bird with Chaffinches and Skylark in kale field for several weeks during January/February.

ZEBRA FINCH , Camel Est: one Sept 26th.

156 BBRC Decisions The following which have not appeared in 'Birds in Cornwall' have all been rejected by BBRC.

1992 Little Shearwater Porthgwarra Aug 9th Wilson's Petrel Rame Head Aug 14th Ross's Gull (two) St. Ives Nov 11th Isabelline Wheatear Walmsley Sane. May 3rd Bonelli's Warbler Porthgwarra Oct 13th

1991 Little Shearwater Pendeen Sept 22nd Saker Falcon Pendeen Oct 16th Baird's Sandpiper Stithians Res Aug 7th and 16th Wilson's Phalarope Landulph Res Sept 29th Gull-billed Tern Kennack Sands Apr 21st White-winged Black Tern Pendeen Aug 17th Citrine Wagtail Gerrans Sept 14th Siberian Stonechat (two) Porthgwarra Apr 8th Siberian Stonechat Gwithian Dec 13th Nutcracker Coverack Nashville Warbler Cot Valley mid/late November Fox Sparrow Sennen Oct 23rd 1990 Little Shearwater (two) Pendeen Sept 22nd Double-crested Cormorant Drift Res Aug 20th Black Stork Sennen Sept 11th Spotted Sandpiper Lynher Est Oct 10th Bonaparte's Gull Marazion Jan 11th Bonaparte's Gull Loe Pool Feb 18th Kumlien's Gull Newquay Dec 30th Gull-billed Tern (two) Rame Head Jun 16th Short-toed Lark Lands End Oct 21st Red-throated Pipit Lizard Apr 8th Pallas's Warbler Lizard Oct 18th 1989 Little Shearwater Pendeen Aug 26th Madeiran Petrel Pendeen Sept 22nd Great White Egret Hayle Est Oct 17th White-rumped Sandpiper Landulph Marsh Sept 8th White-rumped Sandpiper Hayle Est Oct 2nd Gray Catbird Cot Valley Oct 28th

157 RINGING REPORT - 1992

656 birds of 32 species were reported as ringed in Cornwall during the year. This was by far the lowest total for many years but unfortunately not all ringers submitted their annual totals list. Only one species, Little Bunting, was added to the list of birds ringed since the inception of these Reports in 1979. Contributors: S.M. Christophers 93 birds of four species at St. Columb Major. G. Gynn 210 birds of 25 species at Boswednack and Treveal. F.H.C. Kendall 38 birds of seven species at Bude. B. Pattenden 315 birds of 25 species at Marazion Marsh. Recoveries, controls and ring sightings Mute Swan Ring no. Z 49522 ringed as an adult at River Yealm, Devon on 14th July 1984 was sighted at Looe on 28th December 1985 and was breeding at Par Beach Pool in 1992. Black-headed Gull Ring no. EP 97484 ringed at Garnham Island, Essex was sighted at Par on 9th September 1992.

Sedge Warbler Ring no. E 188858 ringed as a juvenile at Marazion Marsh on 26th September 1987 was controlled at Pare National Du Djoudji, Fleuve, Senegal on 13th December 1991.

Pied Flycatcher Ring no. F 307366 ringed as a pullus at Grenofen Wood, Tavistock, Devon on 9th June 1990 was found breeding at Golitha Wood on 8th June 1992. Chaffinch Ring no. F 178408 ringed as an adult female at St. Columb Major on 1st January 1990 was found dead in a kitchen at , near Launceston on 17th March 1990.

Greenfinch Ring no. VE 03625 ringed as a first year male at St. Columb Major on 7th December 1988 was controlled at Winfarthing, Norfolk on 31st May 1992.

Ring no. VJ 39271 ringed as a second year female at St. Columb Major on 1st January 1991 was controlled at Wrotham, Kent on 20th April 1992. Ring no. VJ 50635 ringed as a second year female at St. Columb Major on 17th February 1991 was controlled at Great Wakering, Essex on 22nd February 1992.

1993 1979-1993 Full Pulli Total Full Pulli Total grown growg Northern Fulmar — 3 Manx Shearwater — — — 2 — 2 European Storm-petrel — — — 3 — 3 — — — 2 — 2 Mute Swan — — — 66 — 66 Common Shelduck — — — 8 8 — — — 1 1 Common Scoter — — — 1 1 Eurasian Sparrowhawk — — — 20 2 22 — — — 5 21 26 Common Kestrel — — — 4 30 34 Water Rail — — — 18 — 18 Spotted Crake — — — 4 — 4

158 Oystercatcher — — — 409 6 415 Great Ringed Plover — — 203 — 203 Northern Lapwing 24 3 27 Red Knot — — — 4 — 4 Sanderling — 22 — 22 Curlew Sandpiper — 1 — 1 Dunlin — — — 993 — 993 Jack Snipe Common Snipe - - 11 - 11 Woodcock Black-tailed Godwit Bar-tailed Godwit - - - - Whimbrel 5 5 Eurasian Curlew — 73 — 73 Spotted Redshank — 7 — 7 Common Redshank — 297 — 297 Common Greenshank 48 — 48 Turnstone — 45 — 45 felack-headed Gull 18 — 18 Herring Gull — — 14 — 14 Common Guillemot — 24 — 24 Razorbill 1 — 1 Little Auk — 1 — 1 Stock Dove — 4 4 Wood Pigeon 1 1 7 10 17 Collared Dove — — 21 4 25 Common Cuckoo 2 3 5 Barn Owl 2 2 22 172 194 Little Owl — — 1 2 3 Tawny Owl — — — 16 30 46 Short-eared Owl — 1 — 1 Long-eared Owl 1 — 1 European Nightjar 2 — 2 Common Swift — — 4 — 4 Common Kingfisher 2 2 11 — 11 Green Woodpecker — — 5 — 5 Great Spotted Woodpecker — 7 — 7 Sky Lark — — 6 6 Sand Martin — Ill — 111 Barn Swallow 4 4 4702 552 5254 House Martin — — — 37 25 62 Tree Pipit — 8 7 15 Meadow Pipit — — 71 15 86 - i Water Pipit l Rock Pipit z z 5 5 Yellow Wagtail — — 40 — 40 Grey Wagtail 1 1 22 47 69 Pied Wagtail 171 54 225 Dipper — — 73 318 391 Wren 47 47 1147 24 1171 Hedge Accentor 32 32 903 15 918 Robin 29 — 29 1230 62 1292 Bluethroat 1 — 1 Black Redstart — 2 — 2 Common Redstart — 12 15 27 Whinchat 12 — 12 Common Stonechat — 48 10 58 Northern Wheatear — 322 306 628 Blackbird 17 17 934 111 1045 Fieldfare _ — — 4 4

159 333 Song Thrush 4 4 303 30 — Redwing 125 125 _ Mistle Thrush 6 9 15 — Cetti's Warbler 12 12 96 96 Grasshopper Warbler 28 — 28 Aquatic Warbler 30 — 30 79 - 79 3024 — 3024 Sedge Warbler 2 2 Marsh Warbler Reed Warbler 128 128 3008 4 3012 Icterine Warbler — — 1 — 1 Melodious Warbler — 1 — 1 Lesser Whitethroat 1 1 14 — 14 Common Whitethroat 6 6 273 — 273 Garden Warbler 2 2 159 — 159 17 17 630 — 630 Blackcap - i 1 Pallas's Leaf Warbler l z 2 Yellow-browed Warbler 2 1019 Chiffchaff 30 30 1011 8 Willow Warbler 15 15 1595 108 1703 — 927 Goldcrest 16 16 927 — Firecrest 1 1 65 65 Spotted Flycatcher — — 35 65 100 Red-breasted Flycatcher 1 — 1 Pied Flycatcher - - — 25 360 385 Bearded Tit j 650 Long-tailed Tit 5 5 649 1 Marsh Tit 131 47 178 Willow Tit _ 121 — 121 Coat Tit 2 2 182 38 220 Blue Tit 45 21 66 4919 2248 7167 Great Tit 10 10 1282 408 1690 Wood Nuthatch 18 66 84 Eurasian Treecreeper 93 6 99 Eurasian Jay 9 — 9 Magpie — 20 32 52 Eurasian Jackdaw 39 — 39 12 51 Rook 12 — 12 Carrion Crow 4 25 29 Common Starling 1323 — 1323 - — 441 1 442 House Sparrow - j Red-eyed Vireo j Chaffinch 2 2 1388 32 1420 Brambling 30 — 30 Greenfinch 6 6 3008 32 3040 Goldfinch 96 12 108 Siskin 58 — 58 Linnet 176 18 194 Common Redpoll — — 5 — 5 15 — 15 541 3 544 Bullfinch j Hawfinch j Yellowhammer 1 1 96 7 103 Cirl Bunting — — — — 3 3 Little Bunting 1 — 1 1 — 1 Reed Bunting 102 — 102 514 4 518 Corn Bunting — — — 1 21 22 Totals 633 23 656 38484 4965 43449

160 Wild birds handled by the R.S.P.C.A. at Perranporth during 1991

Northern Fulmar 5 Barn Owl 8 Leach's Storm-petrel 1 Tawny Owl 21 Northern Gannet 17 Short-eared Owl 2 Great Cormorant 1 Green Woodpecker 1 Shag 5 Great Spotted Woodpecker 1 Grey Heron 12 Common Swift 1 Mute Swan 29 Barn Swallow 1 Mallard 22 House Martin 1 Greater Scaup 3 Pied Wagtail 1 Eurasian Sparrowhawk 9 Wren 1 Common Buzzard 22 Hedge Accentor 2 Common Kestrel 4 Robin 6 1 Blackbird 56 Red-legged Partridge 1 Fieldfare 1 Golden Pheasant 1 Song Thrush 13 Common Pheasant 5 Redwing 16 Water Rail 1 Mistle Thrush 2 Northern Lapwing 1 Long-tailed Tit 1 Common Snipe 1 Blue Tit 1 Whimbrel 1 Magpie 12 Eurasian Curlew 2 Eurasian Jackdaw 53 Common Sandpiper 1 Rook 10 Black-headed Gull 6 Carrion Crow 24 Herring Gull 11 2 Great Black-backed Gull 1 Common Starling 13 Common Guillemot 50 House Sparrow 13 Razorbill 6 Chaffinch 5 Little Auk 3 Greenfinch 6 Puffin 1 Goldfinch 1 Woodpigeon 11 Linnet 4 Collared Dove 24 Bullfinch 2 Total = 539 Rex Harper

161 AN EASTERN GREAT GREY SHRIKE AT CAPE CORNWALL

On the 21st April 1992, what was thought to be a Lesser Grey Shrike was found at Cape Cornwall. Paul Semmens and Dave Flumm saw it and correctly identified it as a Great Grey Shrike. Later in the day Andrew Birch, Renfred Hathway and I all came to the conclusion that it was showing some unusual features and thought it may be of the race pallidirostris.

The most striking features were the general paleness of the plumage, the largely bare lores and the broad white wing-bar. Structurally it was similar to an excubitor Great Grey Shrike (the race that usually winters in Britain), however it was felt by most to be slightly smaller with a more rounded head shape. In habits it appeared tamer than our, usually shy and wary, Great Great Shrikes allowing an approach to within 10 yards. It would drop onto prey items, usually Bumble Bees but was once seen to take a small lizard, and impale them onto a Blackthorn bush.

The plumage was pale grey on the head and mantle, with a black mask extending back from the eye with only a small point projecting forwards onto the lores which were otherwise pale grey. There was a suggestion of a faint paler supercilium along the upper border of the black mask and there were white scapulars bordering the dark wing feathers. The rump was buff becoming greyer towards the mantle.

The underparts were whitish except for a pinkish buff hue on the flanks which extended onto the rump.

On the closed wing the primary coverts and the rest of the greater coverts were black, as were the tertials. The inner greater coverts and tertials were tipped with varying amounts of white. The alula, secondaries and especially the primaries were quite pale brown,

Great Grey Shrike showing characteristics of one of the Eastern races RReen Hathway

162 appearing worn and bleached and contrasting with the black tertials and coverts. There was a large white patch at the base of the primaries. Most of the tail feathers appeared quite pale and warm brown, although the penultimate feathers were dark. The outer tail feathers appeared whitish. In flight it showed a very extensive white wing flash restricted to the base of the primaries and not extending onto the secondaries. The legs and bill were grey, with a black culmen and small black tip to the bill.

In April 1993 a Great Grey Shrike of the race excubitor, was at Zennor which allowed a good comparison to be made and highlighted the difference between the Cape Cornwall and Zennor birds :-

1) The virtually bare lores. 2) The paleness of the plumage. 3) The virtual lack of a supercilium. 4) Large white flash restricted to the primary bases. 5) The pinkish flanks and buff toned rump. The race that fits most closely is pallidirostris which breeds in south central Asia, however another contender is the race homeyeri which breeds in west Asia and south-east Europe. If accepted by the British Birds Rarities Committee it would be the first of this race for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

John Ryan

TAWNY OWL SYSTEMATICALLY TAKING F ANT AIL PIGEONS FROM A CORNISH DOVECOTE DURING SPRINGS 1990-1992

Antony House is a large National Trust property with an imposing mansion house set within formal gardens on the in Cornwall.

Close to the house stands a traditional-style circular solid-walled dovecote eight metres high topped by a cone-shaped turret with multiple entrances each some 12 cm wide and 25 cm nigh. The dovecote houses between 20-40 Fantail Pigeons (Columba livia), the size of the population each year relecting the severity of the winter weather and degree of predation by local Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus), less often Eurasian Sparrowhawks (Accipiter nisus).

In April and May 1990 the house gardener, Brian Langley, started to find some Fantails missing from the dovecote and others headless within the dovecote every other day or so. Initial thoughts were that perhaps a Stoat (Mustela ermina) or even a Mink (Mustela vison) was entering through the slatted wooden floor and causing the losses. These possibilities were ruled out by wiring the floor slats with very fine chicken wire and the use of a cage trap suitable for catching stoats. After the loss of a dozen fantails the predation apparently ceased.

In April 1991 the same form of predation happened but this time only four doves were lost.

In April and May 1992 however, the losses occurred on a larger and more serious scale. On one day in mid May five headless Fantail Pigeons were found at various places in the dovecot tower. Again, a live-trap suitable for medium sized mammals was employed without success and cement powder was scattered in an attempt to detect the footprints of the predator, providing no further clues.

At this point consideration was given to the possibility that the predator was entering via the conical tower entrances used by the doves. A local woodsman recalled how the previous owner Sir John Carew had remarked "You will never keep doves with the white owl about". Barn Owls (Tyto alba) were nesting nearby but dove remains could not be found among their pellets or prey traces.

163 The mystery was eventually solved when the carcase of a dove was placed as bait in a large wire cage normally used for trapping Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and situated on the top ledge of the dovecote. The following morning the cage held an adult Tawny Owl (Strix aluco) which was released nearby. Measures were then taken through wiring and trap doors to protect the doves by night and the predation ceased. Sir John Carew was correct when identifying an owl as the culprit but confused Barn with Tawny, a common mistake made by landowners as students of owl populations will know.

The degree to which Tawny Owl take avian prey varies considerably by habitat and season (Glue 1972). In woodland, small and medium sized mammals tend to form the great bulk of the diet (eg. Bevan 1967, Southern 1954). It is in towns and cities that Tawny Owls tend to take much more avian prey (Bevan 1965, Yalden & Jones 1971). House Sparrows (Passer domesticus), and similar sized species are numerically the chief avian found items but pigeons may be locally important, as in Holland Park, London (eg. Bevan 1965), while this owl has the ability to kill prey as large as Magpie (Pica pica) and Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) (Glue 1972).

The incident at Antony House illustrates the opportunistic nature of the Tawny Owl especially during the key months of April and May when young owlets are growing at their fastest in the main fledging period (Campbell and Ferguson-Lees 1972). David Glue, British Trust for , The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk. and Brian Langley, 1 Gift Cottage, Antony, Torpoint, Cornwall.

References: BEVEN, G.: The food of Tawny Owls in London (London Bird Report 29: pps 56-72. 1965). BEVEN, G.: The food of Tawny Owls in Surrey (Surrey Bird Report 14: pps 27-32. 1967). CAMPBELL, B. & FERGUSON-LEES, I.J.: (A Field Guide to Birds Nests. Constable 1972). GLUE, D.E.: Bird prey taken by British Owls. (Bird Study 19: pps. 91-95. 1972). YALDEN, D.W. & JONES, R.: The food of suburban Tawny Owls. (The Naturalist 914: pps 87-89. 1971).

164 THE SOCIETY'S RULES "Current from April 1992"

Rule 1. (Name) The Society shall be called "The Cornwall Bird-Watching and Preservation Society".

Rule 2. (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be:- (a) To further the study of birds in the field. (b) To assist in their preservation. Rule 3. (Membership) Membership shall be open to anyone who supports the objects of the Society. Classes of membership shall be as follows:- Ordinary Members — any person over the age of 18 years. Life Members — any ordinary member who has paid the prescribed Life Membership Subscription. Junior Members — any person under the age of 18 years. Honorary Members — any person, whether otherwise a member or not, who is elected an Honorary Member by a General Meeting on a recommendation of the Executive Committee in recognition of outstanding service to the objects of the Society. Group Members — School or similar Groups. All members shall be entitled to participate in all activities of the Society (except that Junior members shall not be eligible to serve as Honorary Officers or as members of the Executive Committee) and shall be entitled to vote at General meetings (Group Members shall be entitled to one vote only on behalf of that body). The Executive Committee shall have the authority to exclude from membership, or cancel the membership of, any person if it considers that person to have contravened any requirements contained in these rules or any legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or for any other matter which the Executive Committee considers offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4 (Subscriptions) Subscription rates shall be as approved from time to time by the Society in General Meeting on a recommendation from the Executive Committee. Subscriptions shall be payable on joining and on the 1st of January thereafter, but any member paying a first subscription after the 30th of September in any year shall not be liable to pay a further subscription until after the close of the following year. A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications, and when six months in arrears shall cease to be a member.

Rule 5. (Officers) The following Honorary Officers shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and shall be eligible for re-election:- President, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer, Honorary Solicitor, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor, Public Relations Officer, County Recorder and Editor, Assistant Editor, Officer for Youth & Education, two Joint Editors for the Isles of Scilly, Research Officer. Any member, with the exception of Junior members, shall be eligible for election as an Honorary Officer. In the event of a vacancy arising at any time of the year, the Executive Committee shall be empowered to appoint a member to fill that vacancy and such appointment shall be reported to the next General Meeting for approval or election as appropriate.

Rule 6. (Meetings) General Meetings shall be held twice a year, and the first General Meeting shall be the Annual General Meeting. The quorum for a General Meeting shall be 30 members. A Special General Meeting may be called by the Executive Committee, or at the request of 20 members by application to the Chairman and the General Secretary, such applications

165 to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

Rule 7. (Management) The Annual General Meeting shall elect an Executive Committee to deal with all business of the Society, and any obligation undertaken by the Executive Committee shall be an obligation of the Society. The Executive Committee shall consist of the Honorary Officers and nine other members. Non-officer members shall be elected for a period of three years and shall not on the expiry of that period be eligible for re-election until a year after the termination of that period of three years. Nominations for posts as Honorary Officers and for vacancies on the Executive Committee shall be made in writing to the General Secretary over the signatures of the proposer and seconder and must reach the General Secretary at least ten days before the date of the Annual General Meeting. The Executive Committee shall meet as often as is necessary and shall be convened by General Secretary in consultation with the Chairman. The quorum for the Executive Committee shall be ten members.

The Executive Committee shall have the powers to appoint such sub-committees as it considers desirable and shall determine the membership and powers of such sub-committees, whose proceedings will be reported to the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall not delegate to any sub-committee the power to commit the Society to any expenditure. The Executive Committee shall delegate to the Management Team (comprising Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, and Conservation Officer) power to take decisions on urgent matters which cannot await the next meeting of the Committee. Decisions of the Management Team must be unanimous and shall be reported to the next meeting of the Executive Committee.

Rule 8. (Accounts) The audited accounts of the Society shall be presented annually to the Society for approval at the Annual General Meeting. Rule 9. (Trustees) Property and investments of the Society shall vest in not less than four members of the Society appointed by the Society in General Meeting. Each Trustee shall remain in office until such Trustee resigns or is removed at a General Meeting. In the event of the death or resignation of a Trustee the Executive Committee shall have the power to fill the vacancy, such decisions to be reported to the next General Meeting for confirmation. Rule 10. (Dissolution etc.) This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the Members, at a General Meeting where the business is transacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamation or subordination, prior notice must be given under rule 11. For the purpose of this Rule, Members may vote by post. Rule 11. (Alteration of Rules) An alteration of the Rules of the Society may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the precise alteration has been set out in full on the agenda sent to members and that the proposed alteration is passed by at least two-thirds of those members present and voting at the meeting.

166 167 St. George Printing Works Ltd., Commercial Centre, Pool Industrial Estate, Redruth. Tel.: (0209) 217033