The Annual Report of the Ornithological Group 2018

Bradfordbirding.org 1 The Bradford Ornithological Group 2018 Report

Report Production

Editor: Paul King Author: Keith Moir Records Collation: Keith Allen with assistance from Shaun Radcliffe and Paul King

Photographs

Front Cover: Brian Vickers Others: As individually credited

Editorial

This, the 32nd Annual Report, was composed from the 17,500 records submitted by over 100 birders. Without such dedication and attention to detail, we would not be able to record satisfactorily the presence of birds in our recording area. To everyone that supported our efforts, I give my thanks.

Probably the year’s outstanding visitor was an Iberian Chiffchaff, a first for , which spent three weeks trying to attract a mate at Norwood Edge. Other birds making a welcome, if infrequent, appearance included Red-throated Diver, Curlew Sandpiper, Glaucous Gull, White-fronted Goose, Brent Goose and Sandwich Tern. A total of over 16,000 Pink-footed Geese and an exceptional 19 Ospreys, crossed the region on their spring and autumn journeys. At Tong Park, Baildon, the build-up of Gadwall reached an impressive 23 in November, and amazingly, Barn Owl has progressed from no sightings in 2006, to be our most recorded owl!

Water levels were severely affected during a long hot summer, and as a consequence, waders were more frequently seen, with Ruff, Sanderling, Turnstone and the aforementioned Curlew Sandpiper, being the pick. Herring Gull numbers have increased four-fold in just three years, but a strong showing is not the case with Pochard, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Yellowhammer and Twite, which are just about hanging-on.

New features on our website (bradfordbirding.org), include a searchable database of 2017 records, details of the 263 species identified in the area, monthly reports, articles by local birders and much, much more.

Paul King

Bradfordbirding.org 2 MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor Common resident breeder.

The only sizeable gathering was 25 at Yeadon Tarn in April, and the other sightings again included a few colour-ringed birds. Breeding reports were well down on 2017, with only 15 young across six locations.

WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus Uncommon but regular passage visitor.

Significant counts were limited to the first winter period, when the highest reservoir totals were 57 at March Ghyll, 40 at John o’ Gaunt’s, and 22 at Lindley Wood. Additionally, flocks of 20 and 26 were seen over Marley and Saltaire. Smaller double-figures were located at Silsden, and Chelker and Ogden Reservoirs. The annual total was 262, about 10% down on 2017.

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE Anser brachyrhynchus Seen regularly overflying on passage, and occasionally as a winter visitor.

By far the most records related to arriving birds in autumn, and produced over 80% of the considerable annual total of 16,085. These included four day-counts of four-figures, and 31 three-figure totals. Observation at Oxenhope Watchpoint accounted for 6,211 birds, but, for once, Caldene Fields led the way with a total of 6,566.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser albifrons Scarce autumn/winter visitor

A species not much recorded since 2000, a bird of the nominate race A.a.albifrons was resting with Greylag and Pink-footed Geese near Hoodstorth on 24th October (KM).

GREYLAG GOOSE Anser anser Common resident breeder, and passage visitor.

Three-figure gatherings numbered 18, and were well up on 2017. The most notable comprised around 350 at Otley Wetland Nature Reserve and , and 425 near Hoodstorth. Though the seven breeding locations were slightly fewer, 150 juveniles was significantly more.

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis Common resident breeder.

The 12 larger counts comprising between 114 and 294 were much in line, but the 126 juveniles recorded across six sites represented a much better breeding picture.

Bradfordbirding.org 3 BARNACLE GOOSE Branta leucopsis Probable escapee and uncommon passage/winter visitor.

All the records came from fairly adjacent locations in the west of the area, and might have involved no more than two birds. Singles were seen in January and February, with two at Warley Moor Reservoir in the latter month and in May and August.

BRENT GOOSE Branta bernicla Scarce passage visitor.

Only the fifth record in the past 19 years, a dark-bellied bird of the race B.b.bernicla was with Canada and Greylag Geese near Oxenhope between 2nd and 20th December (BV, KM, RP).

EGYPTIAN GOOSE Alopochen aegyptiacus Scarce visitor/possible escapee

Two were at Knotford Nook on 27th June.

SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna Passage/winter visitor and occasional breeder.

Birds were reported from 12 sites, in line with 2017, usually in low single figures, but with a few counts of five birds, one of seven, and nine at Cononley Ings in January. There were no breeding reports this year.

MANDARIN DUCK Aix galericulata Increasingly common winter visitor and breeder.

As expected, the biggest counts came from Strid Wood, where there were 85 in October, but almost as many spent several days at Lindley Wood Reservoir, where between 57 and 83 were seen in September. Smaller numbers were observed at a few other increasingly widespread sites. Breeding was proved at six locations in Airedale and , and 28 young were seen.

WIGEON Anas penelope Regular passage migrant and winter visitor.

The exponential increase of other recent years was contained, and the biggest parties at Cononley Ings were no more than 240 in March, and 310 in December. Smaller three- figure flocks were also recorded here, and at Otley Wetland and Knotford Nook.

GADWALL Anas strepera Uncommon but regular winter visitor.

The Group’s previous record was well-surpassed in 2018, with counts at Tong Park Reservoir of 21 on 23rd November (RW) and 23 on 28th (AJ). Otherwise, the more

Bradfordbirding.org 4 expected pairs were seen at Esholt, Cononley, Menston, Otley Wetland, Park Dam and (unusually) Keighley Moor Reservoir.

TEAL Anas crecca Common passage and winter visitor and occasional breeder.

A rather poor year, with around 100 birds at Cononley Ings in January the only three-figure count, and between 30 and 45 birds at three sites the best of the remainder. There were no indications of breeding.

MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos Common resident breeder; passage/winter visitor.

Though again well-reported, there were only three counts over 100 birds, with the maximum 150 at Redcar Tarn in January. In contrast, specific breeding records were well up on last year, and a minimum of 125 young were seen.

PINTAIL Anas acuta Regular passage and occasional winter visitor, usually in small numbers.

A similar picture to 2018, as only five birds were seen, all in September, and comprising one at Warley Moor Reservoir between the 9th and 15th (BS, BV), three at Thornton Moor Reservoir on the 29th (CJK, NP), and another at Doe Park on the same date (NP). A bird at Redcar Tarn in September superficially resembled a female Pintail, but was considered a hybrid.

SHOVELER Anas clypeata Passage/winter visitor in small numbers; has bred.

Ten widespread locations produced a total of 43 birds, with a maximum count of eight at Silsden Ings in March. An unusually long-staying drake was present at Yeadon Tarn from early March until the end of May.

POCHARD Aythya ferina Increasingly uncommon winter visitor.

The dearth of records continues, and most of these came from Yeadon Tarn, which had up to five birds in the first winter period. Otherwise, there were just singles: at Otley Wetland between January and March, and Harold Park in April.

TUFTED DUCK Aythya fuligula Passage/winter visitor and increasing breeding resident.

There were reasonable counts between 21 and 61 from nine locations, the maximum being at Silsden Reservoir in February. Smaller numbers were noted at five other sites. Apparently a better breeding picture than 2017, with a total of 29 young seen at Warley Moor Reservoir, Lister Park and Keighley Moor Reservoir. The latter was notable as being

Bradfordbirding.org 5 the probable first breeding record there, and puzzling, as the parents and seven non-flying ducklings disappeared.

COMMON SCOTER Melanitta nigra Uncommon, but regular passage visitor.

Once again, most sightings were in the south, and comprised four birds at Warley Moor Reservoir on 19th June, and singles the following day and 21st July (BS), and from Keighley Moor Reservoir a bird on 18th August, and three on 26th September (IH). Elsewhere, one was at Otley Wetland on 27th and 28th March (WNS, AJ).

GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula Common winter visitor.

The only double-figure gatherings were 23 at Knotford Nook in March and December, and 21 at Otley Wetland in March. Smaller numbers were recorded at six other sites. Whilst birds have occasionally summered, a bird at Otley Wetland on 12th May was late, and another on 16th July exceptionally so.

GOOSANDER Mergus merganser Common resident breeder and winter visitor.

The species is now widespread but there were only four double-figure counts, though the one of 85 birds at Thornton Moor on 15th September is the highest since 2005. Proven breeding at five sites produced 46 young, and other such records were unspecific.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Alectoris rufa Resident, probably all from introduced stock.

Though no doubt widespread in introduction areas, there were few records, and only two counts approaching 30 birds. Six juveniles were seen ay Slippery Ford.

RED GROUSE Lagopus lagopus Resident breeder.

Little or no shooting took place this year, which probably accounts for the many good counts of moorland birds, the best of which was 95 on Barden Moor in December. Family groups were seen on Keighley Moor, where shooting took place, and which apparently had one of its best years.

GREY PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix Resident breeder.

A similar picture to 2017, with ones and twos predominant, and, of the five exceptions, counts of nine at Queensbury and ten at Otley Wetland were much the highest. One observer suggested the introductions of Red-legged Partridge could be the cause of the continuing downfall. Juveniles were reported only from Glovershaw.

Bradfordbirding.org 6 PHEASANT Phasianus colchicus Resident breeder.

Though observers had sufficient interest to submit nearly 160 records, there were only five double-figure counts (maximum 18 birds at Norwood Bottom), and just two reports of successful breeding.

RED-THROATED DIVER Gavia stellata Rare winter and passage visitor

A juvenile/first winter bird was well seen as it passed Oxenhope Watchpoint on 21st September (HC, DCB). The 10th Group record.

CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo Locally common passage and winter visitor. Occasional breeder.

Lindley Wood Reservoir and Otley Wetland continue to predominate, with at least 50 birds seen at the first site, and 22 at the other. Only Hewenden and Fewston Reservoirs had other site counts of more than 10 birds, though day counts of up to 17 were made on migration at Caldene Fields and Oxenhope, part of a seasonal total of 56.

LITTLE EGRET Egretta garzetta Increasingly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Records continue to increase, and birds were seen in eight months. However, the pattern of sightings, and the relatively small areas involved, tend to suggest that fewer than 20 individuals were involved. The same three general areas as last year had all the records, namely: Airedale: Of the 12 locations, nine were in the three mile stretch of the valley north-west of Keighley. Wharfedale: Most reports came from Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits, with isolated records between Burley and Addingham. Washburn Valley: Lindley Wood Reservoir had both records. Almost all reports were of singles, with only 11 sightings of two birds, mainly north-west of Keighley, and at Esholt, Bingley and Ben Rhydding.

GREY HERON Ardea cinerea Common resident and colonial breeder.

Of the many reports, few were of more than single figures, and, (away from the breeding site), Shipley Glen again had the highest count, with 16 birds. Specific breeding information was confined to the established Askwith colony, where there were 19 nests and 46 young.

LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident breeder, winter and passage visitor.

Park Dam (Low Moor) had several counts of up to six birds, and juveniles were seen here, and at Ben Rhydding. Sightings were otherwise mainly ones and twos.

Bradfordbirding.org 7 GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus Common resident breeder, and winter visitor.

Numbers were similar to last year, and seven at Knotford Nook was the biggest gathering. Breeding took place at Harold Park (Wibsey) and probably at nearby Park Dam, with paired up birds also reported from Chellow Dene and Yeadon Tarn.

RED KITE Milvus milvus Resident and scarce breeder.

From the spread of the many records, Red Kite can now almost be described as ubiquitous. Multiple counts were regular, and there were four of between and 10 and 22 birds, the latter near Leathley in April. Given the numbers, the single breeding report from Washburn Valley must be unrepresentative.

MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginosus Uncommon but regular passage visitor.

Probably up to 14 different individuals were seen, much the same as 2017. Reports were split evenly between the north and south of the area, and in six months of the year. Wharfedale and the Washburn had records from Middleton Moor in January (AJ), Kex Gill in April (TK), Barden Fell in April and August (KM, BV), Beamsley Moor in May (AJ) and Timble Ings in September (WNS).

In the south, four of the reports were from Keighley Moor Reservoir in May, July, August and September (IH), Warley Moor Reservoir in July, August and September (BS, BV), and also near Oxenhope in the same month (RP)

HEN HARRIER Circus cyaneus Increasingly uncommon passage and winter visitor.

A much improved picture involved 39 records, and probably 30 different birds. As ever, the Barden area had many of the sightings, with generally singles (and one occasion, two) noted in January to April, inclusive, and between September and December (DD, BV, WNS, TS). Nearby Hazlewood Moor had a bird in September (RN). A good number of reports also came from the Washburn Valley, where birds were seen in February and June, and between September and November, including two adult males on 13th November (AJ, RP, WNS, BV, TK). Elsewhere, Keighley Moor produced birds in September, October and November (IH), and a female on another moor in the south displayed during its short stay in June (KM, HC). Finally, a ringtail was seen near Draughton in December (WNS).

GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis Scarce visitor.

Just one record, for the second successive year. A male was seen in the Washburn Valley between 3rd and 9th April, during which time it performed perched and flight displays.

Bradfordbirding.org 8 SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus Common resident breeder.

Once again, well-reported from right across the area, but with fewer breeding records than last year. These came from Marley, Thornton and Lindley Wood.

COMMON BUZZARD Buteo buteo Very common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor.

An increased number of records confirms the species’ abundance in our area, and there were many counts of between five and ten birds, the latter from Timble Ings, with slightly smaller counts at Marley, Warley Moor Reservoir, March Ghyll Reservoir, Barden and Oxenhope Watchpoint. Twenty-two nests were located from which 33 young were raised, in line with last year.

OSPREY Pandion haliaetus Uncommon but regular passage visitor.

The probable total of 19 individuals seen is the best for 13 years, and, once again, birds were noted right across the area. In the south, birds passed Oxenhope in March, July and August (RP), Warley Moor Reservoir in March (BS), Silsden in April (TH), Keighley Moor in May (IH), and Stanbury Moor in June (KM). Wharfedale and the Washburn had reports from Knotford Nook in March (RK), Barden in April, June and August (HC, RC, DD, BV, WNS), Burley in May (RG), Sandwith Moor in June and September (AJ), and there was a long-staying bird at Lindley Wood Reservoir in August (PR, AJ et al). KESTREL Falco tinnunculus Common resident breeder/passage migrant.

The 259 records indicate the species’ abundance throughout, but the only notable counts were up to eight at Warley Moor Reservoir in October. These were considered to be a post- breeding party, but the only specific data came from the Washburn and Denton, where 24 young were raised.

MERLIN Falco columbarius Uncommon resident breeder and passage migrant.

A reasonable number of records came mainly from moorland sites, and the majority in the south. Though singles again predominated, two birds were seen on several occasions, at Hazlewood Moor and Ovenden Moor, and nine in total migrated past Oxenhope Watchpoint. The Ovenden birds may have been a breeding pair, and this certainly took place on Keighley Moor.

HOBBY Falco subbuteo Uncommon but regular summer visitor/passage migrant.

A total of eight birds is down on recent years. Most of the reports were from north of the Aire and in June, when birds were seen at Barden on 4th and 13th (HC, BV), Timble on 6th (AJ), and near Hawksworth on 17th (RW). Birds were noted over Pool on 19th July and 3rd

Bradfordbirding.org 9 August, and on the 1st a bird picked up at Arthington was released at Otley Wetland (AJ). Also in August, there was a further Barden record on the 21st (BV). The sole Airedale record came from Slippery Ford on 13th June (IH).

PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus Resident and occasional breeder; passage/winter visitor.

As in 2017, there were 95 records, and again most came from the south, and included several urban reports. Single birds were the norm, though two were seen on a few occasions, and exceptionally three at Barden in January, and six in total passing Oxenhope Watchpoint. The well-established Keighley site was again in use, and three young were raised. No other successes were reported, though a pair visited a previously used site in May, and there were several sightings at what has been considered a potential breeding location in Bradford.

WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus Uncommon but regular winter visitor.

Birds were reported from 10 sites, more than usual, generally singles, but with three at Otley Wetland in January. Other locations to feature were two in the Washburn, Toad Holes Beck, Stockbridge Nature Reserve, Denso Marston Reserve, Park Dam, Tong Park Reservoir, and two in Ilkley, including a garden near the river.

MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus Resident breeder.

The spread of records, numbers and breeding successes were much the same as last year. Maxima were nine birds at Otley Wetland and 10 at Lister Park, and, though the five breeding sites were well down, the 14 young seen was similar.

COOT Fulica atra Resident breeder, passage/winter visitor.

A respectable 65 birds at Park Dam in November was the best of 16 double-figure counts from seven locations. With 35 young seen at six sites, breeding was slightly up.

OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus Common migrant breeder/passage visitor.

As usual the majority of the reports relate to transient birds in late winter and early spring. The regular stopovers of Lindley Wood and Thruscross had the highest numbers, with, respectively, 54 in February and 67 in April, whilst Kex Gill weighed in with 52 in that month. Breeding was probably under-recorded, as there were only five young at three sites.

Bradfordbirding.org 10 GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria Resident breeder/passage and winter visitor.

There was little variation in the sites hosting large numbers of wintering and passage birds. Scargill Pasture, where there were 800 birds in September, again led the way, closely followed by Middleton Moor’s 715 in February. This same stretch of moorland had several other counts up to 500, and Sandwith Moor had 400. In all, there were 19 three-figure reports. Breeding on Ilkley and Keighley Moors, involved up to six pairs and at least five young.

GREY PLOVER Pluvialis squatarola Fairly irregular and scarce passage migrant.

A bird was present at Warley Moor Reservoir on 16th August (BS).

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus Resident breeder/passage and winter visitor.

A marked improvement in the number of 100+ counts, which at 30 were 50% up on last year. As usual, all were in the winter and post-breeding periods, and included four-figure gatherings of up to 2,000 birds at Cononley Ings in January, and 1,150 were there in December. The best of the remainder included around 650 on Middleton Moor, 400 at Scargill Reservoir, and 300 at Redcar Tarn. Breeding reports came only from four sites (all in Airedale), rather than last year’s nine, but, with 26 young, success was the same.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius Passage visitor and uncommon migrant breeder.

A poor year, with scant evidence of birds summering, and almost all the records being passage birds, mainly in Airedale, and a few in Wharfedale and the Washburn. Pairs were seen at six sites, but at only one, in Airedale, was there breeding success, and three young were raised.

RINGED PLOVER Charadrius haticula Passage visitor and erratic breeder.

Not for the first time, ideal shoreline conditions at Warley Moor Reservoir, and regular and diligent watching, boosted numbers. A minimum 39 birds were seen there between May and October, with a maximum of 12 in August. Only four other sites featured, the reservoirs at Keighley Moor, Leeshaw, Thornton Moor and Lindley Wood, contributing six birds in total.

WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus Uncommon passage migrant.

Bradfordbirding.org 11 A fairly average year, with single fly-overs at Silsden on 19th May (JM) and Otley Wetland on 1st August (WNS), and four over Farnley on 26th July (AJ).

CURLEW Numenius arquata Common resident breeder and passage/winter visitor.

The usual locations provided the usual three-figure gatherings. The area round Denton, Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits and Burley had up to 500 birds in both winter periods, and Cononley Ings had a maximum 340 birds in February. Smaller numbers of migrants were seen at a range of other locations. Apparent breeding pairs were reported from 22 mainly moorland sites, but with specific success at only Slippery Ford, Leeshaw, Strid Wood and Warley Moor.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Limosa limosa Regular but scarce passage migrant.

A reasonable six records produced singles at Cononley Ings on 6th March and 11th December (KM), Pool on 25th February (AJ), and Park Dam on 14th September (JB). Two were seen at Silsden Ings on 11th March (BV) , and three at Thornton Moor Reservoir on 3rd August (KM, BV).

RUFF Philomachus pugnax Uncommon passage visitor.

All the reports were from the south, where singles were present at Cononley Ings on 6th January (KM), Keighley Moor Reservoir on 4th August (IH), Warley Moor Reservoir on 2nd and 3rd September (BS, BV), and Redcar Tarn on 22nd November (KM).

SANDERLING Calidris alba Uncommon and irregular passage migrant.

An excellent showing for an increasingly scarce visitor, singles at Warley Moor Reservoir on 7th June and 22nd August, and two there on 4th August (BS). TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres Infrequent passage visitor

Another excellent Warley Moor record of one on 26th July (BS), with another found Scargill Reservoir on 7th August (AJ).

DUNLIN Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant/scarce and sporadic breeder.

The Warley Moor theme continues, with this reservoir contributing at least 134 birds to what must be a record annual total of 172. This location had 27 birds in May, 52 in June and 45 in August, and the remaining 10 in March and from September to November. The year’s balance was spread across 10 sites, with totals of 12 at Leeshaw and 11 migrants passing Oxenhope Watchpoint the only significant numbers. Breeding isn’t often proved, so the presence of very small young at Warley Moor is notable.

Bradfordbirding.org 12 COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos Migrant breeder/passage migrant.

The many records were widespread across the area, but Warley Moor Reservoir and its dedicated watcher, again stole the limelight, with three double-figure counts, including a Group record 18 on 8th May (BS). This was also one of the five breeding locations, which, though down on last year, amassed the same 16 young.

CURLEW SANDPIPER Calidris ferruginea Scarce passage migrant.

In a generally good year for waders, a bird located at Scargill Reservoir on 14th August represented the first since 2013, and only the seventh in all (AJ).

GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus Increasingly uncommon passage migrant and occasional winter visitor.

A much improved picture saw 10 records of probably eight birds, all on autumn passage. In August, there were singles at the reservoir sites of Keighley Moor on 1st and 3rd (IH), Ogden on 4th (DS), Scargill on 28th (AJ), and Lindley Wood on 30th (KM), and two were at Warley Moor on the 4th (BS). The remaining sightings in September came from John o’ Gaunt’s Reservoir on 22nd and 23rd (WNS, AK), and Oxenhope Watchpoint on 24th (DCB, HC).

GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia Increasingly uncommon passage migrant.

After several dismal years, a return to form for Greenshank as well, though the 18 records may well involve fewer birds, as some perhaps remained for several days. The main sites were Warley Moor and Lindley Wood Reservoirs. At the first, singles were seen in August between 3rd and 5th (BS), two were there on 14th and 15th (BV), and there was one on 6th September (DS). At Lindley Wood, there was a bird between 16th and 19th August (AJ, WNS), increasing to two on 22nd and 23rd (WNS), and another on the 30th (KM). Elsewhere, singles were at Silsden Ings between 10th and 13th April (KM), Keighley Moor Reservoir from 20th to 24th July (IH), Thornton Moor on 26th (KM), and Scargill on 12th and 13th August (AJ).

REDSHANK Tringa totanus Migrant breeder/passage and occasional winter visitor.

Records are some 50% down on 2017, and there was no direct evidence of breeding, and little of breeding activity. Silsden Ings again produced the biggest numbers on spring passage and between 18 and 20 birds were seen in mid-March.

JACK SNIPE Lymnocryptes minimus Uncommon but annual passage/winter visitor.

Bradfordbirding.org 13 Access restrictions and a relatively dry second winter period possibly contributed to numbers being 50% down on 2017. Most reports came from Keelham Bog, where up to three were seen in January and February, and four in March. At Apperley Bridge, three birds were located, all in January (KM).

WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticola Resident breeder, passage /winter visitor.

Display flights at four sites, particularly St. Ives, may have been an indication of breeding activity, but only at Norwood Edge was this proved. Birds were otherwise widespread, but in small numbers, mainly during the winter months, and five birds at St. Ives and four at Stainburn Forest between April and June were well ahead of the otherwise ones and twos.

COMMON SNIPE Gallinago gallinago Resident breeder; passage/winter visitor.

As with Jack Snipe, access restrictions probably reduced the reports of this species as well, though the annual total was still a respectable 441. However, within this, 251 birds were seen on autumn migration watches alone, particularly at Oxenhope where the autumn total of 218 birds included a Group record site day count of 154 on 29th September (DCB, HC, CJK). Display flights and apparent pairs were noted at seven locations, and breeding was proved at Warley Moor, and strongly suspected at Slippery Ford and Glovershaw.

COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo Passage and summer visitor and uncommon breeder.

Otley Wetland again produced most of the records, and two birds were regularly seen between mid-April and late May, with four there on the 4th. There were also isolated records from Yeadon Tarn, Silsden, Knotford Nook and Thornton Moor. No breeding was reported.

SANDWICH TERN Sterna sandivicensis Scarce passage visitor

Not recorded since 2011, a bird was at Warley Moor Reservoir on 30th March (BS).

KITTIWAKE Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage/winter visitor.

A corpse was discovered at Warley Moor on 22nd March, but, happily, a live bird was there the following day (BS).

GLAUCOUS GULL Larus hyperborcus Scarce winter visitor

A 1st-winter bird at Brown Royd on 25th March was the first record for 10 years (KM).

Bradfordbirding.org 14 BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus Common resident breeder and abundant passage/winter visitor.

A limited amount of roost-watching produced four notable counts of between 1,500 and 6,000 birds at Thornton Moor Reservoir, the maximum in December. No other roosts featured, and the highest total otherwise was 600. Once again, there was no breeding information, but the colony at was still evident. A bird seen at Yeadon Tarn in December had evidently been ringed in Germany.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL Larus melanocephalus Uncommon but regular winter and passage visitor.

Though an improvement on 2017, the unexplained reduction in sightings continues. Redcar Tarn provided records of a 2nd-winter bird on 22nd February (IH), followed by adults on 29th June and 12th July (KM). In August, a juvenile was at Brown Royd on 3rd (KM), and a single at Scargill Reservoir on the 27th (AJ).

COMMON GULL Larus canus Very common passage/winter visitor.

Apart from an isolated record in June, all the reports were from the winter months, the best of which were of between 2,000 and 3,000 birds at Thornton Moor. A great improvement on 2017.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus fuscus Common passage migrant and occasional breeder.

Passage birds again comprised most of the records, with 400 at Thornton Moor in August the pick of 19 three-figure counts. Around 200 birds of the dark-mantled L.f.intermedus were again seen, and a bird at Redcar Tarn in September had been colour-ringed in Sweden. At least six birds fledged at the Bradford warehouse roof site used previously.

HERRING GULL Larus argentatus Increasingly common passage migrant and winter visitor and occasional breeder.

The numbers continue to rise: this year’s total of some 30,400 is four times as many as in 2016, and makes due allowance, where possible, for lingering birds. All the records came from the south of the area, there was no intensity of roost-watching, and 96% of the birds were seen at just four sites. The most significant month and day totals for the two main locations are:

Month totals and day January March April November December maximum ( )

Cullingworth Fields 1,176 (270) 1,430 (320) 472 (150) 1,137 (580) 5,950 (870)

Bradfordbirding.org 15 Brown Royd, Bradford 1,855 (300) 4,410 (460) 1,900 (260) 949 (144) 1,720 (260)

The balance of totals for these sites and Redcar Tarn was 6,266, and the other main contributors were Thornton Moor 2,135 (with a day maximum of 610), Warley Moor 688 and Leeshaw/Lower Laithe Reservoirs 250. Again, there was no evidence of successful breeding.

YELLOW-LEGGED GULL Larus michahellis Increasingly common and regular passage migrant.

Though numbers are well down on last year, 45 different birds is still a significant total. The main sites (all in the south) are the same as 2017: adults sub-adults

Cullingworth Fields 1 2

Redcar Tarn 2 10

Thornton Moor Reservoir 1 6

Leeshaw/ 3 6

Brown Royd, Bradford 1 8

Single adults were also seen near Barden, and at Queensbury, and Ogden Reservoir, and two sub-adults were at Scargill. (Contributors: AJ (2), BS (1), DS (1), BV (1), KM (others).

CASPIAN GULL Larus cachinnans Scarce migrant/possible winter visitor.

Five records is now about the norm. Brown Royd had 1st calendar-year birds on 2nd and 13th/14th October, 2nd calendar-year birds were on Redcar Tarn on 7th March and Cullingworth Fields on 17th September (all KM), and the first Washburn record was another 1st calendar-year at Scargill Reservoir on 6th August (AJ). As the species is now breeding further west, there is increasing hybridisation with Herring Gulls, and three birds were seen which showed these characteristics.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus Increasingly uncommon passage and winter visitor

Numbers, though still low are being maintained, and 22 birds were reported, almost all from the south. Singles were the norm, and the highest count was five at Brown Royd in January.

FERAL PIGEON Columba livia Abundant urban breeding resident.

Bradfordbirding.org 16 Some observers took the trouble to submit 50 records of a clearly abundant, but under- reported species. The highest count of 100 again came from Bradford, with a slightly smaller number seen in Otley.

STOCK DOVE Columba oenas Resident breeder.

Reasonably widespread again, and birds were seen in slightly bigger numbers: eight counts between 11 and 42 birds, the latter at Cullingworth in December. The only breeding successes were again at Marley and Glovershaw.

WOODPIGEON Columba palumbus Resident breeder, winter visitor, and abundant passage migrant.

Just two reports of breeding activity under-represent the species as well-established across the area, as testified by the 554 records received. The considerable passage of birds through the area in autumn was again well-documented, and though the numbers are well down on 2017, the total of around 64,300 is impressive by any standards. Caldene Fields’ contribution was, at 38,500, the location’s highest ever total, with a stand-out figure of almost 10,000 on 22nd October. For once, Oxenhope was some way behind this at 25,100, but with a similar day maximum of 10,500 on 18th October.

COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto Increasingly uncommon resident breeder.

Another year with few significant counts, and 19 birds the best of five double-figure parties. Whilst there was some suggestion of a good breeding season, this wasn’t borne out by only two specific reports.

ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET Psittacula krameri Uncommon, possible escapee.

Most records continue to come from Airedale, and the 12 reported locations are well-up on 2017, though there was nothing from what had appeared to be the stronghold round Shipley. The Apperley Bridge area now seems to be well-favoured, and up to five birds were seen there, and at least six were seen regularly around Braithwaite.

CUCKOO Cuculus canorus Migrant breeder.

An increased number of records concerned sightings, mainly from moorland, in a seven week period from 19th April. Twos and threes predominated, though an exceptional five were seen at Barden in early May. Once again, no breeding activity was noted.

Bradfordbirding.org 17 BARN OWL Tyto alba Increasingly common resident breeder.

In a remarkable turnaround, Barn Owl has gone from having no reports in 2006, to being the best-recorded owl in 2018! At least 66 different adult birds were seen, at 21 sites in Airedale, 11 in Wharfedale, and eight in the Washburn Valley. This was mirrored in breeding successes, comprising seven pairs raising at least seven young in Airedale, and some 60 young from 22 nests in Wharfedale and the Washburn.

LITTLE OWL Athene noctua Common resident breeder.

A typical year for spread and numbers, and two birds were generally the most seen together. There was no breeding information from the Washburn (10 young last year), and only six juveniles were seen at Leeshaw, Storiths and Baildon Moor.

TAWNY OWL Strix aluco Common resident breeder.

Though the population is evidently stable, including in a range of suburban areas, the breeding information received points to under-recording. Eight pairs, mainly in the Washburn and Airedale, raised at least 12 young, but there were also reports of unsuccessful attempts.

LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus Uncommon resident breeder.

Records came from 10 sites, and at least 12 individuals were seen, a slight improvement on 2017. At least eight juveniles were present at 14 nests, and this is also an improvement, though numbers are still down on those of ten years ago.

SHORT-EARED OWL Asio flammeus Uncommon resident, winter visitor and occasional breeder.

After last year’s disastrous 17 records, an astonishing transformation saw 112 reports in 2018, no doubt brought about by an abundance of prey. At least 41 individuals were seen at 24 widespread moorland sites, and seven birds were observed at Barden Scale in late August. Whilst only three juveniles were seen, behaviour suggested breeding had been attempted at eight sites at least, in Wharfedale, Airedale, Washburn Valley and near Oxenhope.

NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus europaeus Scarce summer visitor.

Birds were again seen at three well-established sites in the Washburn Valley (AJ, PK, WNS), and at a new one in Wharfedale (BV). Up to five were seen on occasion, and it’s likely there were at least 13 birds in all. There was no direct evidence of successful breeding.

Bradfordbirding.org 18 SWIFT Apus apus Migrant breeder and passage visitor.

Counts of about 50 birds were fairly typical, unspecific ‘hundreds’ were mentioned at one site, and between 100 and 200 were seen in June and July at Otley, Warley Moor, Slippery Ford and Lindley Wood. Breeding probably occurred at Hewenden and Otley, and may have been unrecorded elsewhere.

KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident breeder.

Birds can now be seen at a range of rural, suburban, and even urban areas, usually singles, but up to three on occasions. Breeding was proved at Bingley and Dowley Gap, and pairs were seen at eight other sites in Airedale, Wharfedale and the Washburn Valley.

GREEN WOODPECKER Picus viridis Fairly common resident breeder.

Records indicate a stable, if small, population across the area, and at least eight juveniles were seen in Otley, Bolton Abbey, Harden Moor and Norwood Bottom.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus major Common resident breeder.

Numbers of definite and probable breeding reports were well down, and came from six locations in Airedale, two in the Washburn, and one in Bradford and Wharfedale. At least nine young were seen. Other records indicated a stable and widespread population.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus minor Very uncommon and erratic resident breeder.

In direct contrast to the above species, this one is now limited to one site in the Washburn Valley, from which there were nine reports of up to three birds. Nothing more definite than pre-breeding activity was noted (AJ, WNS).

MAGPIE Pica pica Abundant resident breeder.

An abundance of reports didn’t produce more than a group of 21 birds, and, once again, there was no indication of roost numbers. There was no direct evidence of breeding.

Bradfordbirding.org 19 JAY Garrulus glanarius Resident breeder. Counts were typically ones and twos, but five were seen at Toad Holes Beck, up to seven in Shipley Glen, eight at Leathley and nine at Caldene Fields. No breeding data was received.

JACKDAW Corvus monedula Resident breeder and winter visitor.

This is a bird usually seen in good numbers on autumn migration, and this year’s tally comprised 1,170 at Oxenhope Watchpoint (day maximum 313), 400 at Apperley Bridge, 194 at Caldene Fields, and several others between 100 and 150. Successful breeding was noted at Shipley, Strid Wood, Ilkley and Denholme.

ROOK Corvus frugilegus Resident breeder.

Only four rookeries were mentioned (in Airedale, Wharfedale and at Menston), and there was no information on breeding successes. A party of 86 birds at Haverah Park in January was the highest count.

CARRION CROW Corvus corone Resident breeder.

Although well-recorded, numbers, though apparently stable, continue to be down on other recent years, and generally no more than 50 birds were seen together. Breeding activity was noted at Scargill, Raw Nook, Lindley Wood and Lister Park, but unsupported by information on success.

RAVEN Corvus corax Increasingly common resident/scarce breeder.

There is nothing to suggest any change in the status as a well-established bird in all parts of the area. There were twelve counts of between two and six birds, the latter from the Washburn Valley, where successful breeding was confirmed for the first time (AJ). A juvenile bird was also seen at Thornton Moor Reservoir, and possible family parties at Barden Scale and Warley Moor.

GOLDCREST Regulus regulus Passage/winter visitor and occasional breeder.

A much smaller number of records is reflected in the 16 birds seen at Danefield Plantation (Otley) being much the highest count. Similarly, there were no breeding records, and just one of pre-breeding activity.

BLUE TIT Parus caeruleus Abundant resident breeder.

Bradfordbirding.org 20 The species continues to be well-recorded, and breeding information from ringers working in Wharfedale and the Washburn Valley tends to indicate that numbers are stable.

GREAT TIT Parus major Abundant resident breeder.

As with Blue Tit, a considerable number of records, and there was also evidence of a significant increase in breeding successes. Winter site aggregates of 14 in Bingley, and 16 at Otley Wetland were noteworthy.

COAL TIT Parus ater Resident breeder.

Records of the commoner tits are considerably up, and a count of 19 birds at Timble in January compared with other recent years. There was no specific breeding data, and only one juvenile was seen.

MARSH TIT Parus palustris Scarce and decreasing resident.

The area round Haverah Park is now the only reliable site for this bird, and up to two were seen there in August and September. Elsewhere in the Washburn, singles were near Leathley in January and December (AJ).

SKY LARK Alauda arvensis Resident breeder/passage migrant.

Records (about the same as last year) confirm a stable population, with up to 10 birds on or near moorland, supplemented by an autumn migration total of 100. Probable breeding was indicated on Baildon Moor, Soil Hill and at Redcar Tarn.

SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia Common migrant breeder/passage visitor.

Incoming birds accounted for counts of up to 25, and there were post-breeding and returning counts of over 50. Colonies at Burley Weir, Harden Moor and East Riddlesden Hall were occupied, but there was no mention of other traditional and recent sites, though this is not to say they were not in use.

SWALLOW Hirundo rustica Common migrant breeder and passage visitor.

As usual, migrating birds and pre-roost gatherings accounted for the biggest numbers. The autumn total was about 6,370, with three notable counts at Caldene Fields of between 400 and 800, and anecdotal evidence of at least 3,000 there in early September. Specific breeding data referred to 59 young birds ringed in Menston, though other successes almost certainly went unrecorded.

Bradfordbirding.org 21 HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica Common migrant breeder and passage visitor.

There was a marked reduction in breeding information, but mention was made of seven sites, in Cullingworth, Oxenhope, Shipley, Otley, Addingham, Menston and Oakworth. Several groups of up to 100 birds were seen, and visible migration counts produced a total of 780, mainly at Caldene Fields.

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalus caudatus Common resident breeder.

An almost identical picture to 2017, with 10 double-figure counts, and a maximum of 25 in Ilkley in February. Definite breeding took place at Stockbridge, Knotford Nook, Bingley Bog North, Toad Holes Beck and Otley Wetland.

WOOD WARBLER Phylloscopus sibilatrix Uncommon migrant breeder/occasionally on passage.

With one exception, birds returned to the same locations as last year: Cottingley Woods, Heber’s Ghyll, St. Ives, Strid Wood and near Thruscross. Two singing males were present at most of them, but there was no indications of breeding.

CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita Common migrant breeder; passage and winter visitor.

Despite only one reference to probable breeding, at Menston, birds were evidently widespread, with many males defending territory, and at least ten were at St. Ives in May. Dowley Gap is now becoming a regular wintering site, and a single was there in February and three in December, which produced another at Apperley Bridge.

IBERIAN CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus ibericus Rare vagrant

The discovery of this national rarity and the first for the Group, is due to the aural skills of the finder (AJ), who discovered the singing male on Norwood Edge on 19th May. It performed well, and was seen and heard by many observers until at least 9th June.

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus Common migrant breeder/passage visitor.

Perhaps not quite as numerous as in 2017, with 12 singing males on Harden Moor the best of four counts in double-figures, and birds were said to be scarce at one location. However, breeding data stood up well, as it came from six areas, and 12 fledged young were mentioned.

Bradfordbirding.org 22 BLACKCAP Sylvia atricapilla Common migrant breeder and passage/winter visitor.

A much better breeding picture, as it was suspected or proved at Thornton, Strid Wood, Otley Wetland and Bingley Bog North, with recently fledged young seen at the last two. St. Ives and the Lower Washburn Valley, with 10 and 11 birds, had the highest counts. There were only two winter reports, from Menston and Otley.

GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia borin Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

In terms of records and numbers, much the same twos and threes as last year, though there were at least four on Norwood Edge in June. There was no breeding information.

LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca Increasingly uncommon migrant and passage visitor.

Happily, the Low Moor area continues to produce a few birds, and this year singles at Toad Holes Beck and Caldene Fields were the prelude to proved breeding (MVP). Two other reports from Leathley (AJ) and Otley Wetland (DS) were no doubt individuals on spring migration.

WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis Passage visitor/fairly uncommon breeder.

This year’s significant counts were six on Harden and Baildon Moors, and seven at Queensbury. Birds bred at the first two sites, as well as Stockbridge Nature Reserve, and at least six fledged young were seen.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia Uncommon passage migrant and occasional breeder.

In a remarkable record year, at least 18 birds were seen or heard at nine general areas, all on or near moorland, between early May and mid-August. These were around Baildon Moor (PK, SR, MB, PM) and Barden, Farnhill and Rombald’s Moors (JM), Timble Ings and Askwith, Beamsley and Sandwith Moors (AJ, WNS), and Thornton Moor (CJK). However, unlike 2017, there were no breeding records.

SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Increasingly uncommon migrant breeder/passage visitor.

Though this year records also came from Snaygill, a site recently not covered, and where four birds were seen, numbers were still generally down, and apart from here and Stockbridge, which had three singing males, the rest comprised singles at Otley Wetland and . No breeding was reported.

Bradfordbirding.org 23 REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus Scarce passage visitor/ regular but local breeder.

Otley Wetland continues to be predominant, and at least 14 birds were there in May, and 21 ringed, suggesting successful breeding, which may also have taken place at Menston and Stockbridge.

WAXWING Bombycilla garrulus Irregular but numerous winter visitor

There was a modest influx into the county in December, and up to 12 birds were reported in the Legrams Lane area of Bradford, between 7th and 19th.

NUTHATCH Sitta europaea Resident breeder.

The Washburn Valley again led the way on breeding successes and the 58 young raised was 50% up on last year. Reports also came from Shipley Glen, Strid Wood and Lister Park. Generally, there were bigger counts of birds, with 10 in Strid Wood and 12 at standing out, so Nuthatch clearly remains well-established.

TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris Resident breeder.

Records indicate a fairly stable population, even though breeding reports came only from Shipley Glen and Strid Wood.

WREN Troglodytes troglodytes Common resident breeder.

Seven double-figure counts are exactly in line with last year, the best of which was 22 birds at Knotford Nook in August. There was no specific breeding information.

STARLING Sturnus vulgaris Resident breeder/winter visitor.

The many records included 20 post-breeding and wintering flocks of between 130 and 900 birds, and an exceptional 2,000 beyond Bolton Bridge in March. As usual, autumn migration produced the biggest numbers: Caldene Fields 7,918 (day maximum 2,318) and Oxenhope 3,583 (maximum 1,825), plus 500 at Warley Moor. No breeding data was forthcoming.

DIPPER Cinclus cinclus Common resident breeder.

Most of the information came from Wharfedale and the Washburn Valley, where between two and six birds were regularly seen. Successful or probable breeding occurred at

Bradfordbirding.org 24 Leathley, Strid Wood, Ben Rhydding, Thruscross, Slippery Ford and Goit Stock (Harden), and possibly near Ilkley and Lindley Wood.

RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus Uncommon passage and migrant breeder.

Over the years, numbers have fluctuated markedly, as most of our birds are clearly on passage. This was a better one, with a total of around 46 birds, most on the Wharfedale moors, with six in and around Airedale. The Wharfedale total included seven near Hazlewood on 20th April, and a record 15 on Rombald’s Moor (Nab End), a traditional stopover, on the 24th (GL). Successful breeding occurred in Wharfedale.

BLACKBIRD Turdus merula Very common resident breeder/winter visitor.

Breeding was well down (seven juveniles at nine sites). However, 19 double-figure counts, including a maximum 25 birds in Middleton Woods, confirm the species’ stability.

FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris Winter visitor and passage migrant.

After a slightly reduced total last year, numbers were back to form, and the autumn total was about 25,500. Numbers were similar at the two main watchpoints, with 13,584 (maximum 2,169) at Oxenhope, and 11,972 (maximum 2,237) at Caldene Fields. Elsewhere, there were 25 three-figure counts, but the only roost total of significance was 1,200 at Stainburn Forest in November.

SONG THRUSH Turdus philomelos Resident breeder/winter visitor.

Records generally tend to number about 200 for Song Thrush, but this year counts were consistently higher, and eight birds were noted at Strid Wood, Fewston Reservoir and Sandwith Moor, with 13 passing Caldene Fields on 17th October. Breeding was evident at Sandwith Moor, Shipley Glen, Ben Rhydding, Otley and Lister Park.

REDWING Turdus iliacus Winter visitor and passage migrant.

In contrast to Fieldfare, specific autumn migration figures were well down at the two principal sites, comprising 11,361 (maximum 4,097) at Caldene and 8,355 (maximum 2,305) at Oxenhope. Similar counts elsewhere totalled about 1,250, though more specific information on an October record from Timble Ings which simply mentioned “hundreds in 35 large flocks” would presumably have produced a much larger aggregate.

Bradfordbirding.org 25 MISTLE THRUSH Turdus viscivorus Resident breeder and passage migrant.

Another year with no significant post-breeding flocks, and 25 at Leeshaw in January was the highest count, whilst the visible migration total was 123. A better breeding picture, with 11 juveniles seen at eight widespread locations.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata Fairly uncommon migrant breeder/passage visitor.

The area around Storiths has recently been the one where most birds are seen, but this year the data varied from several counts of only one to “numerous” on 30th July. Elsewhere, the highest specific number was five at Barden in June. Successful breeding took place at Hazlewood, Strid Wood and Haverah Park. ROBIN Erithacus rubecula Resident breeder/winter visitor.

The usual considerable number of reports included four counts of between 11 and 21 (at Ilkley) and many in high single figures, so the healthy status is confirmed. Whilst no doubt under-recorded, breeding information was better, with 10 reports of definite or probable activity, and 13 juveniles seen, from right across the area.

PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula hypoleuca Regular migrant breeder/uncommon on passage.

The healthy breeding levels in the stronghold of the Washburn Valley have been further strengthened with 208 young raised. Up to 13 birds were seen attending nest boxes in Strid Wood, so breeding no doubt occurred there as well. Away from here, two birds were seen in Heber’s Ghyll, and one at Leathley.

REDSTART Phoenicurus phoenicurus Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

Wharfedale and the Washburn continue to monopolise the records though there were several from Airedale and Baildon Moor, but Strid Wood again had the maximum count of eight birds in May. Breeding again took place in the Barden area, and on Baildon Moor and at Norwood Bottom, Farnley and Thruscross.

WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

All the evidence is that the birds seen were largely transient, including a family party on Baildon Moor and a juvenile at Queensbury, both in September. The former provided the maximum count of six birds.

STONECHAT Saxicola torquata Fairly common passage /winter visitor and breeder.

Bradfordbirding.org 26 With around 124 birds seen, the species appears to be maintaining its status as well- established. There were several counts of up to eight birds, and a maximum 12 on Hazlewood Moor in January. However, probable breeding appeared to be slightly down, with records from Kex Gill, and Ilkley, Keighley, Barden, and Beamsley Moors, the only ones where there was definite evidence.

WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe Very common passage visitor and occasional breeder.

A dramatic fall in the numbers seen on migration saw only 207 birds in spring and 151 in autumn, and the only double-figure counts were of four between 10 and 14 birds at Warley Moor Reservoir in August and September. Four fledged young seen near Storiths in June may have indicated local breeding.

DUNNOCK Prunella modularis Common resident breeder.

In a remarkable upturn in breeding data, evidence came from three locations in Bradford, and at Apperley Bridge, Haworth, Ilkley and Thornton Moor Reservoir.

HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus Resident breeder.

There were 14 counts of between 12 and 36 birds, with several observers commenting numbers of both adults and young were the best for many years. Some 20 juveniles in Haworth represented the maximum, and smaller numbers were reported from Ilkley, Oakworth and Stockbridge, indicating much successful breeding.

TREE SPARROW Passer montanus Increasingly common, resident breeder.

There were more reports this year from Airedale, and birds were seen at places previously unrecorded: Haverah Park, Judy Woods, Silsden and Thornthwaite. The best count was 20 birds at Addingham in July, though it was suggested up to 50 might have been in the area. As last year, there was successful breeding at Burley, Menston and Clifton, and the minimum of 61 young was also in line.

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava Uncommon passage visitor.

Numbers continue to reduce, with only two reports of singles at John o’ Gaunt’s Reservoir on 27th August (AJ) and Denholme Clough on 2nd September (MD).

GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea Resident breeder and winter visitor.

The poorest counts for several years, with the result that four birds at Warley Moor Reservoir in May was the highest. More positively, probable breeding managed seven

Bradfordbirding.org 27 reports from Strid Wood, Slippery Ford, Riddlesden, and Cottingley, although only four young were seen.

PIED WAGTAIL Motacilla alba Resident breeder, passage migrant, and winter visitor.

In line with last year, Dowley Gap had the highest total of 75 birds in December, much the largest of 22 double-figure counts during the year. Autumn migration produced 348 birds past Caldene Fields, and 217 at Oxenhope. In May, individuals showing characteristics of White Wagtail (M.a.alba) were at Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits on the 1st (AJ), and Keighley Moor Reservoir on the 12th (IH). Behaviour or juveniles indicated probable breeding at Warley Moor, Redcar Tarn, Riddlesden, Slippery Ford and Stainburn Moor.

TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis Uncommon migrant breeder/passage visitor.

Only at Norwood Edge was there evidence of probable breeding, but the presence of up to six singing and displaying birds at Timble Ings, Sandwith Moor, Thruscross and Stainburn Forest pointed to it there as well. Singles on Farnhill Moor and at Otley Wetland were probably transient.

MEADOW PIPIT Anthus pratensis Common resident/migrant breeder and passage visitor.

Clearly remains established as a common moorland breeder, despite only two specific records from Whetstone Gate and Baildon Moor. In contrast, migration numbers continue to be well-recorded, and produced an annual total of 16,600, plus unspecified “hundreds”. The main activity was at Oxenhope Watchpoint, whose total of 11,053 included maxima of 1,088 and 3,910, and Caldene Fields: total 4,277, maxima 1,119 and 2,076 (the biggest day count ever recorded there).

CHAFFINCH Fringilla coelebs Resident breeder, passage/winter visitor.

The largest wintering flock (40 birds at Ogden Reservoir in December) was well down on last year, but migration totals were slightly increased. The annual total of 1,845 relied mainly on Caldene Fields’ 1,320 (maximum 204) and Oxenhope’s 486. As in 2017, many reports of singing males didn’t translate into breeding records.

BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla Regular but erratic winter visitor.

Aside from migration reports, no more than 38 birds were seen and the largest flock was 24 birds at Park Dam (Low Moor) in December. Oxenhope had an autumn total of 600 (maximum 102, and 11 others in double figures) and Caldene Fields 374 (maximum 74, and 10 others in double figures).

Bradfordbirding.org 28 GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris Resident breeder, passage and winter visitor.

Whilst there was no repeat of the large 2017 flock, there appears to be some stability, and seven counts of between 10 and 20 birds were made. The autumn migration total was much as last year at 306, most of which was Caldene Fields’ 281. There were no breeding reports.

GOLDFINCH Carduelis carduelis Resident breeder, passage visitor.

The 2017 improvement was maintained, as there were 24 double-figure counts of up to 70 birds, these being seen at Yeadon Tarn in January. There were also higher migration totals, comprising 3,355 at Caldene Fields and 551 at Oxenhope. Caldene had 21 counts in double figures, and five between 104 and 149, whilst Oxenhope had a maximum of 146. There was also an improvement in breeding information, though the one record from Sconce didn’t have much to beat!

SISKIN Carduelis spinus Resident/possible breeder, fairly common passage and winter visitor.

Another finch to show improvement from some recent decline, as the 15 double-figure counts are 100% up on last year, though the maximum 50 birds at Fewston in December is about the same. The visible migration total increased by about 300 to 381, the biggest day count being 71 at Oxenhope. However, there was another breeding nil return.

LINNET Carduelis cannabina Passage migrant, winter visitor and uncommon breeder.

Numbers were well down on 2017, and only 40 birds at Low Snowdon in October stood out from the seven double-figure counts. Migration at Caldene Fields and Oxenhope produced just over 200 birds. Four pairs on Baildon Moor in June indicated probable breeding.

TWITE Carduelis flavirostris Very uncommon and local; mainly on migration.

Twite is just clinging on in the Warley Moor area, and five were found on 11th September, and one on 19th October (DS). On the same date, an apparent migrant was seen near Scargill Reservoir (AJ).

LESSER REDPOLL Carduelis cabaret Passage/winter visitor. Occasional breeder.

In a much better year, between 25 and 73 birds were seen at Timble Ings in the latter part of the year, the second total being the excellent number ringed there on 27th November. Elsewhere, aside from migration counts, only 10 at Fewston and 25 at Ogden got into double figures. At the two regular watchpoints, 116 birds were logged. Once more, there was no suggestion of breeding.

Bradfordbirding.org 29 COMMON (MEALY) REDPOLL Carduelis flammea Scarce migrant/winter visitor.

A welcome bonus to the redpoll ringing activity at Timble Ings on 27th November was one of this species, not seen since 2016 (JM).

CROSSBILL Loxia curvirostra Erratic passage/winter visitor, and occasional summer resident and breeder.

In the past, almost all the records have come from the Washburn Valley, but this year it was down to 40%, though sites there generally had the highest counts. Timble Ings led the way, with an estimated 215 birds seen during the year, including the maximum 50 on 24th November. Stainburn Forest produced between 19 and 46, and nearby Norwood Edge totalled 88 (maximum 25). Away from here, 30 were seen on Otley Chevin, and five other sites across the area to Ogden totalled 52 birds. At the usual watchpoint, 78 birds were seen. Nothing was observed to indicate a breeding attempt.

BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula Resident breeder.

The first sizeable group for some years contained 10 birds pre-roost at Otley on 27th February, though day totals of 13 and 15 were included in Caldene Fields’ seasonal total of 88. Smaller numbers were seen at 15 other places right across the area, and the general view seems to be that the species is doing well. Nest building at Toad Holes Beck was the only indication of possible breeding.

HAWFINCH Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce winter visitor.

Birds were seen in the early months, and comprised those remaining, following the major influx at the end of 2017. At Ilkley Cemetery, up to four birds remained until 3rd March (AJ et al), and Otley Cemetery still had a bird to 5th February, and five were reported from there on 26th January (PRo). Away from here, one passed Caldene Fields on 14th November (MVP).

SNOW BUNTING Plectrophenax nivalis Regular but uncommon passage/winter visitor.

In October, one was seen on the 29th during a migration watch at Oxenhope (DCB, HC), and the following day another photographed at the less likely Fewston Reservoir (PC). Warley Moor Reservoir then had singles on 2nd and 28th December (BS).

YELLOWHAMMER Emberiza citrinella Uncommon resident.

Not since 2011 have birds been seen at the former stronghold of Baildon Moor, and the bird’s continuing tenuous presence is now down to isolated records elsewhere. This year’s

Bradfordbirding.org 30 singles were seen at Queensbury on 5th April (BS), at Otley Wetland on the 27th (JM), and migrating past Caldene Fields on 11th November (MVP).

REED BUNTING Emberiza schoeniclus Resident breeder/passage visitor.

In a year of generally low numbers, a record count of 57 birds roosting at Otley Wetland on 26th January was a considerable surprise (JM). The only other double figures were 11 at Warley Moor in November and December. Successful breeding was reported from Baildon Moor and Slippery Ford.

Escaped or Released Species

BAR-HEADED GOOSE Anser indicus

Five birds at Beamsley Beacon on 12th May are presumably the ones seen intermittently in earlier years. A pair was also seen on Addingham High Moor on 19th May, and one at Silsden Ings on 4th September.

MUSCOVY DUCK Cairina moschata

Up to seven birds were again often seen at Redcar Tarn, and managed to look relatively normal amongst the appalling hybrids and freaks (mostly avian!) regular at this location. A pair apparently bred at Riddlesden.

HARRIS’S HAWK Parabuteo unicinctus

What may have been the same bird was reported from Shipley Glen on 21st February, Goit Stock the following day and 5th May, and again over Shipley Glen on 18th October.

Bradfordbirding.org 31 Contributors

This list includes those who submitted more than five records, a record of significance or a photograph which depicted an interesting sighting.

Keith Allen (KA) Steve Parkes John Armstrong PD & JB Parkin Dave Barker (DCB) Damian Pearson Mike Bloomfield John Preshaw (JP) Jamie Brass Martyn Priestley (MVP) John Brooks Nigel Priestley (NP) Richard Butler Rod Proctor Calderdale Birders (CB) Shaun Radcliffe (SR) Howard Creber (HC) Pete Riley (PR) Mark Doveston (MD) Pete Roe (PRo) Dave Dymock (DD) Peter Rollins Maria Gill Darren Sheppard Ian Hargreaves (IH) Thomas Simcock Colin Harrison Martin Stone (MS) Andy Jowett (AJ) Brian Sumner (BS) Theo Keuchel Dave Sutcliffe (DS) Chris King (CK) Jeremy Taylor Paul King (PK) Nick Tonge Andrew Kelly (AK) Alan Tremethick Joy Leach Tony Tudor Paul Marfell (PM) Brian Vickers (BV) Phil Matthews Darren Ward Jon Middleton (JM) Roger Wilkinson Keith Moir (KM) Wharfedale Naturalists’ Society (WNS) Roger Nelson (RN)

Bradfordbirding.org 32