erefordshire Ornithological Clu

o T 1982

Together with Cia slfled Notes for Hereford hire and Radnorshlre

No. 2 Vol.4 £1 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB No. 2 Vol. 4

OFFICERS AND COMMITIEE 1982 President:­ J.L.FOX

Vice-Presiden ts: P.W.IllNDE, M.B.O.U., Dr. C.W. WALKER, M.C. A.G. FYSHE, T.R.H. OWEN, C.B.E.

Chairman:­ T.RAMMONDS

Hon. Secretary:­ Mrs. J.M. BROMLEY The Garth, Kington. Tel: Kington 230502

Hon. Treasurer:­ I.T.STONE Chantries, Grosmont, Abergavenny.

Hon. Recorder:­ A.J.SMIm Yew Tree Cottage, Holme Marsh, Lyonshall, Kington. Tel: Lyonshall 318

Hon. Field Secretary:­ P.GARDNER

Hon. Editor:­ A.MARCHANT

Committee:- P.G. BRADLEY K.A.MASON Mrs. F. BURGE LW. PREECE LB. EVANS J.J.SMIm Mrs. R. FRANCIS Dr. S.J. TYLER R.HALL

Co-opted:­ F.W.MARSTON

I HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB RULES

I. NAME. The Club shall be called the Herefordshire Ornithological Club. 2. OBJECTS. The objects of the Club shall be (a) to further the study of birds in the field, and (b) to assist in their preservation. 3. MEMBERSHIP. The Club shall consist of a President, a Chainnan, a Secretary, a Field Secretary, a Treasurer, an Editor, a Recorder, and Ten Committee Members and Ordinary Members. The President and the Chair­ man to retire after serving a term of three years. The Secretaries, the Treasurer, the Recorder and the Editor shall be elected annually. The three senior of the ten Ordinary Members of the Committee shall retire annually and they shall not be eligible for re-election for a period of 12 months. The Officers and Ordinary Members of the Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and the Officers shall be eligible for re-election. Nominations for the Committee must be received in writing by the Hon. Secretary by February 14th. 4. CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP. Members shall be required to support and keep the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Any members failing to support and keep this law shall be required to resign. Members shall not divulge to·unauthorised persons (e.g. known collectors of skins and/or eggs) information in a manner likely to be detrimental to the objects of the Club. 5. SUBSCRIPTIONS. (a) Junior members, over 12 but under 18 years of age, £1. Ordinary members, 1..8 years and over, £3. A married couple, £4. Any additional members of a household £ 1. Subscriptions are payable on January 1st or on election to membership. Corporate Members: Kindred bodies, Schools, etc. Subscription £2 per annum. Honorary Members: As approved by the majority present at the Annual General Meeting. (b) All subscriptions subsequent to those paid on admission shall be due on Jan. 1st each year. Where a member has been elected on or after 1st September in any year, there will be no further liability to subscribe in the year immediately following that of his or· her election. Any member whose subscription is six months in arrears shall cease to receive the Oub's publications and, should the subscription not be paid by December 31st, his or her name shall be deleted from the list ofMembers. 6. MANAGEMENT. The Secretary shall keep Minutes of the Meetings and prepare such literature as shall keep the Members informed of the Club's activities. 7. MEETINGS shall be held as often as deemed desirable at the discretion of the Officers. 8. REPORT. There shall be an Editorial Committee of at least three Mem­ bers including the Secretary, appointed at an ordinary Committee Meet­ ing. These shall prepare and present an Annual Report and such special reports as may be decided upon. 9. ALTERATIONS OF RULES. An alteration of the Rules may be made only if proposed at one meeting, printed on the agenda for the following meeting, and passed by a two-thirds majority of those present. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 59

THOMAS RICHARD HORNBY OWEN

It is very sad to record the death of Mr. T.R.H. Owen, C.B.E., who was the Club Editor for many years until he relinquished this duty following publication of the 1981 Annual Report. Richard Owen joined the Club in the early 50's following his retirement from a distinguished career in the Sudan Political Service. He soon became very active in ornithological circles, and served the Club on the Editorial Committee from 1961, taking over the duties of Editor in 1967. He was an able and vigorous speaker, skilled in the art of entertaining an audience without bemusing them with too much science. His account of the efforts, during the building of the Kariba Dam, to save threatened animals, an operation under his organisation, will long be remembered by those lucky enough to be present. Prior to 1982 it was customary for the Annual Report to be produced in time for the A.G.M. in the spring ofthe year, and the need to meet this early dead-line had always been a heavy burden for the Editor. Happily Richard Owen's dedication and energy were more than equal to this task, and it was quite usual for the classified notes to be completed, typed, and ready for circulation to the Editorial Committee in about a fortnight. His failing health in recent years must have made this accomplishment an arduous task indeed, but his enthusiasm never diminished, and the publication date was always achieved. The value of his work for the Club is reflected in the quality of our Annual Reports, and it is only too apparent that we have every reason to be grateful. A.I. Smith. 60 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

EDITORIAL

The severe winter weather at the beginning of the year affected the local bird populations considerably, although a number of species which one would have expected to succumb, such as Heron, Barn Owl, Long-tailed Tit, Treecreeper, Dipper and Goldcrest, appeared to have survived remarkably well. The effects of the winter became all too apparent with the onset of the breeding season with many of our resident species reduced to minimal breeding pairs, particularly Kingfisher, Green Woodpecker, Great and Blue Tit, Wren, Grey Wagtail and Bullfmch. The summer migrants generally arrived on time and numbers were, on the whole, up to normal strength, but the winter migrants in the autumn and second winter period were very much reduced in numbers, especially Golden Plover, Fieldfare, Redwing and Siskin. Bramblings were conspicuous by their almost total absence. The year produced few 'rarities' but nevertheless a number of interesting species were recorded. Two Bitterns were found dead by the Lugg in January and eight Barnacle Geese were present at Eywood for several days at the end of March. A Little Gull at Moelienydd in August was a "first" for Radnorshire. Of two Hoopoes seen one at Holme Lacy in November was a particularly long-stayer and at least two Black Redstarts were noted during November and December. A Great Northern Diver at Llan Bwch-Llyn on Boxing Day was only the second record for Radnorshire - what a Christmas present for the two lucky observers! In this year;s Report the order of the Classified Notes has been changed from that previously used to that of Prof. K.H. Voous (1977, List of Recent Holarctic Bird Species) as published in the 'British Birds' "List of Birds of the Western Palearctic" 1978. Members may, at first, find this order confusing, but the change had to come about to conform with other publications of this nature. CLUB ACTIVITIES. Club outings were held during the year at Castleton, Ludlow, Talybont, Hoarwithy, Gower Coast, Llanbedr, Lyepole, Haugh Wood (twice), Fownhope (Nature Trust reserve), Cefndyrys, Eywood Pool (Dawn Chorus), Shucknall Hill, New Forest (Club weekend), Dinedor, Foy, Mortimer Forest, Llyn Hilyn, Elan Valley, Kentchurch, Llangunllo, Llandegfedd Reservoir, Chew Valley Reservoir, Black Mixen, Glasbury Wye, Severn Estuary and Shobdon. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 61

Indoor meetings held in the Percival Hall, Hereford included a 'Members' night', and ftlms and talks by Roger Beck, 'An Ornithol­ ogist in Antarctica'; Dr. Stephanie Tyler, 'Grey Wagtails and Dippers'; Tony Prater, 'Waders'; Gerald Grifftths, 'Birdwatching in the Car­ margue'; M.C. Wilkes, 'Birds of the West Midlands'; Arthur Butler A.R.P.S., 'Natural History Photography'; Chris Mead, 'Birding in Belize and Texas'. Thanks go to all the speakers. The Club once again liaised with the RSPB in the showing of three new RSPB mms at the Town Hall, Hereford. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. The Club is indebted to Mr. and Mrs: P. Gardner for preparing and duplicating the Club Bulletins and to Mr. T. Davies for auditing the accounts. In addition, thanks go to all those who led Field Meetings, to the Editorial SulX::ommittee, Mr. P.W. Hinde, Dr. C.W. Walker, Mr. A.I. Smith and the Secretary, for their assistance and guidance and to Mr. Arthur Butler A.R.P.S. for his excellent photograph of the Little Ringed Plover. Finally thanks go to all those who have submitted notes and articles for this Report. A. Marchant. 62 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

HEREFORDSHIRE AND RADNORSHIRE NATURE TRUST NEST BOX SCHEME

34 returns were received this year from 34 sites covered by the Ornith­ ological Club, and the results are as follows:- 1982 1981 Nests Fledged Nests Fledged Pied Flycatcher . 170 713 225 789 Blue Tit . 95 737 172 984 Great Tit . 82 559 170 732 Marsh Tit . 5 42 6 50 Coal Tit . 9 77 7 44 Redstart . 9 34 6 32 Nuthatch . 8 42 14 76 Wren . 5 10 Tawny Owl . 5 3 2 1 Tree Sparrow . 2 3 Spotted Flycatcher . 2 8

TOTAL BOXES . 1032 973 BOXES USED 383 611 %USED . 37.1 62.7 Following the exceptionally cold winter only 37% of scheme boxes were used. Average clutch sizes improved this year over the 1981 c1utches:- 1982 1981 Blue Tits . 9.7 8.7 Great Tits . 8.3 8.3 Pied Flycatchers . 7.05 6.5

The first eggs were laid:- 1982 1981 Blue Tits . 20th April 16th April Great Tits . 23rd April 19th April Pied Flycatchers . 3rd May 10th May Redstart . 14th May Marsh Tit . 13th April Coal Tit . 23rd April Nuthatch . 26th April

From observations reported Coal Tits survived the winter better than other species, possibly due to better food supply in coniferous woods during the cold weather. Predation. probably by weasels, was very b:Jd on one site in Radnorshirc. The results confirm Or. Boddington's notes in Bulletin No. 102 that thcre was a lack of breeding birds surviving after the cxceptionally cold winter.

C.W. Sheldrake HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 63

RINGING REPORT FOR 1982 Complete details of their ringing activities in Herefordshire have been supplied by M.B., D.G.B., C.A.J.,C.D.N.J., A.M., M.J.N., P.J.P., and S.J.T., and Peter Gardner has provided an account of his Nest Box site at Mary Knoll, where the hole nesting species have been included in the more general details supplied by the ringers mentioned above. Ringing details of Nest Box sites at Aymestrey, Bockleton, Bromyard (2), Gatley, Ladygrove, Mary Knoll, Moccas, Mowley, Oaker, Presteigne (2), Shobdon, Wap1ey (3) and Wigmore have been submitted (as last year) and in addition Llanveinoe in the Olchon Valley, Co1eshill near Presteigne, and Titley and Hergest near Kington have been added. Regular submission of full details from these sites each year has enabled a comprehensive picture to be built up concerning inter-site movements ofPied Flycatchers and it is unfortunate that information is not available from some south Herefordshire sites. The ringing of Fieldfares at Shobdon continues. For 1980 1219 were reported ringed, and for 1981 459. There was one foreign recovery detail­ ed in the last Annual Report, and the several received since then have covered the species's breeding in Scandinavia, and wintering elsewhere both in Britain and on the continent. A total of 2929 birds of 44 species have been ringed. Of these 1236 were F.G. and 1693 Pulli. The top 12 species were: Pied Flycatcher ...... 1128 (125 FG 1003 Pulli) Sand Martin ...... 666 (all FG) Blue Tit ...... 296 ( 61 FG 235 Pulli) Great Tit ...... 189 ( 30 FG 159 Pulli) Fie1dfare ...... 124 (all FG) Swallow ...... 84 ( 3 FG 81 Pulli) Chaffmch ...... 69 (all FG) Nuthatch ...... 65 ( 4 FG 61 Pulli) Redstart ...... 60 ( 4 FG 56 Pulli) House Martin ...... 31 (all FG) Spotted Flycatcher ...... 27 ( 3 FG 24 Pulli) Blackbird ...... 24 ( 22 FG 2 Pulli) The reduction in the number of Blue Tit and Great Tit ringed is consistent with the fmding that sites on high ground and away from habitation were very thinly occupied after the 1981"':'82 severe winter. 64 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

The following are selected from 123 'Identified' previously ringed birds of all species. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery data on the second. M - Male, F- Female, Pull - Nestling, FG - Fully grown. 3 - Hatched year of ringing, Ad - Adult, X- Found dead. The figures in brackets after the species denotes the number of recoveries of that species from which the sample was drawn.

KESTREL (1) 3033665 Pull 06.07.81 Easthampton Farm, Shobdon, Herefs. (D.G.B.) X 07.02.82 Rhossili Bay, Gower, Glam. 121Km.232°

HOUSE MARTIN (1) B079379 3 28.07.81 Bodenham, Herefs. (C.A.J.) 27.05.82 Hatfield, Herts. 176Km.l04° SAND MARTIN (5) B080723 3 04.07.82 Aymestrey, Herefs. (C.A.J.) 17.07.82 Stanton Harcourt, Oxford. 116Km.I23° B180040 3F 10.07.81 Cound, Salop. 11.07.82 Aymestrey, Herefs. (C.D.N.J.) 40Km.196° B471038 3 26.07.82 Aymestrey, Herefs. (C.AJ.) 12.08.82 Hallow, Wares. (W.R.G.) 40Km.98° FIELDFARE (8) XE88157 Ad.M 12.01.80 Shobdon, Herefs. (C.A.J.) X 15.07.82 Betha, Halsa, More og Romsdal, Norway. 63° 05'N, 08° 21 'E. 1375Km.29° XJ84061 3M 07.12.80 Shobdon (C.A.J.) X Sonkajarvi, Juopio. Finland. 63040'N, 27°29'E. 2180Km.54° XJ38799 3F 06.12.80 Shobdon (C.AJ.) X 21.12.81 Pocklington, Humberside. 229Km. 37° HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 65

XJ38971 3M 07.12.80 Shobdon (C.A.J.) X 11.12.81 Alvik, Hordaland, Norway. 60025'N,060 22'E 1072Km. 32°

XJ38621 3M 29.11.80 Shobdon (C.A.J.) X 15.11.81 Savignac Les Eglises, Dordogne, France. 450 16'N,0055'E 822Km.1600

XE88079 Ad.M 04.01.80 Shobdon (C.A.J.) X 03.01.82 Arifat, Realmont. Tarn. France. 43~46'N, OP20'E 1017Km.158 XJ38729 3M 05.12.80 Shobdon (CA.J.) X 20.12.81 Radda in Chianti. Siena. Italy. 43° 29'N. I 1° 23 'E 1438Km. 1330 SONG THRUSH (1) CS51780 Ad 13.01.79 Bromyard. Herefs. (D.G.B.) 09.05.82 Nuneaton, Warwicks. 78Km.62° BLACKBIRD (1) XH84835 Ad.M 21.01.81 Hergest, Kington, Herefs. (P.J.P) 05.05.82 Zeeland, Netherland. 510 30'N, 030 54'E 482Km. 990 GARDI!:N WARBLER (l) A824922 Ad.F 06.06.80 Wapley Hill, Herefs. (M.B.) 06.06.82 Wapley Hill, Herefs. (M.B.) GREENFINCH (1 ) NH82635 Ad.M 27.12.81 Shobdon, Herefs. (C.A.J.) 19.04.82 Boston, Lincs. 530 02'N, 0006'E 220Km.66° CHAFFINCH (3) B530351 3F 17.10.81 Zeeland, Netherland. 51° 41 'N, 03043'E 27.12.81 Shobdon. 456Km.278° 66 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

PIED FLYCATCHER (96) 220 Adult birds (137F,83M, 1.65: 1) were handled in Herefordshire in 1982 of which 95' t59F, 36M, 1.63:1) had already been ringed, 90 in Herefordshire and 5 elsewhere, Gwent (3), Forest of Dean (1), Llan­ drindod Wells (1). In addition to these 95 a F, bird from Presteigne was recovered at Llysdinan, Powys,

Of the 91 ringed in Herefordshire, 44 had been so as pulli, and 47 as adults. Of the 44 pulli, 7F and 7M had returned to their sites of birth, and 19F and 11 M had moved sites. Of the 47 Adults 15 F and 15M had returned to their sites of birth, and 16F and 1M had moved sites. Of 1981 Herefordshire ringed Pulli (from sites specified earlier in the report) 15 (8F,7M) had been found in 1982 out of a total of 626 (2.4%) though this figure might have been higher if recoveries from some other sites had been collectable.

The list of recoveries becomes greater each year. Of the 96, 5 had been ringed in 1978,7 in 1979,27 in 1980 and 57 in 1981. Paradise Wood (16), Wigmore (16), Mary Knoll (12) were the leading sites of origin of recovered ringed birds, and Wigmore (23), Paradise (15) and Mary Knoll (13) the leading recipient sites. "These figures are reflective of the habitat and size of the site, and the enthusiasm of the ringers concerned.

JR04532 Ad.F 06.06.78 Moccas, Herefs. (D.G.B.) 01.06.82 Moccas, Herefs. (A.M.) (1979 Byton, 1980 and 1981 Moccas)

JR04668 Pul.(F) 11.06.78 Shobdon (D.G.B.) 01.06.82 Wigmore (also '79, '80, '81) (MJ.N.)

JR63562 Pul.(F) 11.06.78 Mary Knoll (C.J.M.) 23.05.82 Mary Knoll (CJ.M.) (1979, '80, '81 Wigmore)

KX98880 Pul.(F) 17.06.80 Cefnllys, L1andrindod Wells. (CJ.M.) 28.05.82 Gatley, Here/s. (D.G.B.) 36Km.81°

A799377 Pul.(F) 10.06.81 Cwmyoy, Gwent. (P.FJ.P.) 01.06.82 Wigmore (MJ.N.) 47Km.110

A777160 Ad.F 13.06.81 Mansel Lucy, Herefs. (C..J.M.) 31.05.82 Purudise, Presteigne (M. B.) 23Km.324° HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 67

JV31422 Pul.(F) 07.06.80 Paradise (M.B.) 04.06.82 Llysdinan, Powys. (F.M.S.) Key to Initials M. Baddeley, D.G. Boddington, C.A. Johnson, C.D.N. Johnson, A. Mar­ chant, C.J. Mead, M.J. Noble, P.F.J. Playford, P.J. Potts, F.M. Slater, S.J. Tyler, Wychavon Ringing Group. D. G. Boddington

RINGING IN RADNORSIDRE 1982 Notes received from Dr. F.M. Slater and M.A. Boilstone show that they ringed 400 birds (284 F.G. and 116 PuIIi) of44 Species in Radnorshire in 1982. The leading species were: Pied Flycatcher (35 FG and 73 PuIIi) Willow Warbler (64 FG) Lapwing (24 Pulli) Long Tailed Tit (19 FG) Reference to two Pied Flycatchers with Radnorshire connections are made in the Herefordshire Section (KX98880 and JV31422). The recovery of the bird below, which was contributed by Dr. J. Harpum, exceeds the previous longevity record for this species.

TUFTED DUCK DKC432692 Ad.M 17.05.67 Amager, Sjaellanu, X Denmark. 55° 38'N, 1:t34'E 31.10.81 Womaston, New Radnor, Powys. 1088 Km. 24~

D.G.B. 68 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

WEATHER NOTES AND OTHER JOTTINGS, 1982

January An exceptionally cold spell was the feature of the month, although this was less remarkable in terms of probability than the cold weather which occurred earlier this winter in December 1981. During both these periods some of the lowest temperatures were recorded since the 1962/63 winter. Snow began to fall late on the 7th, and heavy snow cover was continuous from the 8th until the thaw exposed some ground to view on the 18th. The severe weather was such that some birds died, and many moved away from the area. Despite these conditions, resi­ dent birds were to be heard in song at much about the usual time, e.g. Chaffmch first attempted song on the 11 th, and Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, and even Blackbird could be heard by the end of the month.

February White frosts were noted OJlohalf a dozen mornings between the 7th and 23rd, and there was a light fall of snow during the night of I 7th/ 18th. The snowfall heralded a week of cold weather, but it was mild again by the 27th. Rainfall over the month was less than average. The usual seasonal bird movements were evident throughout the month, a passage of Lapwings being particularly notable. To locate a Wren at this time was a lucky find for birdwatchers everywhere.

March Some half dozen mornings were white with frost, and the higher hills were covered with snow on the 11 th. This period was most notable for heavy rainfall, and the total was about double the average. Hereford City at least could boast the presence ofa Wren in song on the 1st of the month. Good numbers ofFieldfares and some Redwing were to be seen on migration.

April It was cold on the 1st, and later another cold spell eventually gave way to warm temperatures on the 20th, but it was cool again by the 29th to see the month out. About half the days in the month merited the description "sunny". Rainfall was somewhat less than average. One interesting consequence of the hard winter was the greater ease with which one could locate Goldcrest in song at this time, compared with the difficulty in finding Wrens. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 69

May The ftrst few days were very cold, and there was snow on some hills on the 4th and a white frost on the 6th. It became warmer during the second week, but cloudy and unsettled weather occupied the middle period. The month ended splendidly with a warm spell. Rain­ fall was well under average. Incoming migrants were delayed, e.g. Swallows were well below full strength on the 7th, and it was the 17th before any notable improvement occurred.

June It was unfortunate at this critical time in the breeding season that heavy rain was the feature of the month, the total amount being about three times the average. July In pleasant contrast to the previous month, July was dry overall with less than average rainfall, and there were only two really wet days, the 12th and 14th. Post breeding season flocks began to gather, not least Sand Martins at their river colonies. Many of our Swifts departed for winter quarters.

August The month was very wet with total rainfall approaching twice the usual ftgure. Migratory movements were much in evidence, and a major departure of Swallows and House Martins around the 27th was especially notable.

September

This was another month of heavy rain, most precipitation occurring in the latter half, and the total was more than double the long term average. However all was not gloom, as a flush ofPainted Lady Butter­ flies brightened a number of days, and it was still possible to hear a late Chiffchaff.

October With the experience of the previous two months behind us it came as no surprise that October turned out to be rather wet and of course the f'mal tally again showed a well above average total. The ftrst white frost of the season was recorded on the 27th. Signs of the advancing year were everywhere about us; on the domestic front yellow necked mice moved into house lofts in accordance with their seasonal habit, and in the avian world winter visitors began to arrive. In particular, both Redwing and Fieldfare appeared on schedule. 70 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

November November is traditionally a wet month, and we were not to be disappointed on this occasion. Inevitably, it would seem, the measured total of rain was above the average. The temperature was low enough on the 15th to give a sprinkling of snow on the higher hills. Many resident birds could be heard in song by the end of the month, includ­ ing Mistle and Song Thrush Robin, Hedgesparrow, Great Tit, and even Wren from time to time.

December The fIrst half of the month was cold with some snow, but later precipitation tended to be of rain and the month went out on a rel­ atively mild note. The total rainfall (precipitation) was again well above average. That thriving species the Collared Dove was singing well as the year ended. A.J.S.

EXPERIENCE OF THE RAYEN IN NORTH HEREFORDSHIRE

The Raven (the Flesh Crow) was regarded by many in the past as a bird of ill omen, with its loud croak and keen sense of sight and hear­ ing, but I have a great affection for the bird. They are so powerful, with their massive beak they will break up a dead sheep in a matter of minutes. During the early part of the last century several pairs bred in the County, but due to persecution, successful breeding ceased about 1880 (see 'Herefordshire Birds' 1975, Dr. C.W. Walker & A.J. Smith). They remained fairly common in Brecknock & Radnor (E. Cambridge Phillips 1900) and birds were frequently seen flying over Herefordshire. In 1922, I had, as it were, my first close contact with the Raven when some schoolboys reported a nest at Craig-Pwll-Du. At this time breed­ ing was taking place at Rhulen, Cwm-y-Bont, Radnor Forest and Beacon Hill. The nests at these sites were all on crags but as they extended eastwards they used trees. A young one which had fallen from a tree nest was reared on a fann at Cascob and it became a fond pet. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 71

In 1926 what was probably the ftrst nest on their return to the County was located at Moccas. In 1936 I was taken by the late John Grifftths to see a nest with young in a tall Scots Pine at Willey. The nest was a considerable size, unfortunately I have forgotten if he told me how many years they had been there. A pair at this time was often seen flying over Shobdon. During the war years they bred near Kinsham Court and two of these young were reared by Mr. Grifftths and des­ patched to the Tower of London. Then for several years I failed to locate the nest site - families of young birds were seen at Shobdon Park (1946) and Shirley Farm (1950). My experience is that shortly after leaving the nest the old birds lead the young away from the area, as a sort of survival precaution, and looking for the nest site nearby proved unsuccessful. Then during the winter of 1954 when we were driving Shobdon Hill (following myxamotosis the foxes were killing lambs) just by chance on the precipitous north slope I came upon the old Raven's nest in a stunted oak tree, which they must have occupied for ten years or more -I had searched for hours for it over miles of difftcult country.

By now the conifers planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1920's had reached some 60ft. In 1955 they nested on Shobdon Hill almost opposite Lyepole in a Sitka Spruce. The movement east continued with pairs established at Wigmore, Croft and Bringewood. During the next decade they moved gradually down the Covenhope Valley using Douglas Firs at the eastern end of Shobdon Hill. They then moved to the north-west end of Chaff Wood where tall Larch were used for a few years, having sent the pair of Buzzards using the area further down the valley.

For some unknown reason in 1978 they decided to use a Douglas Fir again and nested within sight of Mortimers Cross. The gale ofJanuary 1979 caused havoc in the wood so they moved back, as it were, half a mile to where there were several acres of Douglas still standing and used the same nest for four consecutive years - this nest I could clearly see from the farm-yard some 600 yards distant.

In 1982, due to the gale damage, the Commission decided to clear fell the wood. I prevailed upon the Forester to leave a small group of trees, including the nest site tree, in the hope that the Ravens would return, but come January I could see by their behaviour that they were having none of it and on February 14th I observed the female, with a beakfull of sheep's wool, heading in a slightly different direc­ tion - the female does the bulk of the gathering of material and nest building with some help from the male. At the time of writing at the end of April I have located the nest, the young have successfully fledged and left the nest site, only 300 yards from the main road and are still, as it were, on my patch. 72 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

I feel as though I have known this pair of Ravens all my life - the female must be at least 40 years old. Only one bird has been what could be termed a rogue, in 1959 it started killing lambs. On being despatched it had a wing span of 4ft. I have not made a scientific study of these birds, but have observed that the sexes have a distinctly different croak. The plumage of the male is quite glossy and black, by comparison the female is dark brown. I have seen both sexes 'roll'. While the female is incubating you rarely see her, the male is posted on guard nearby. When the young are about half-grown the female appears to go away foraging while the male remains in the vicinity, she will return at a great height and plummet down to the nest. The croak being their efficient means of communication, a single croak from a parent is sufficient to silence a large brood of noisy youngsters in the nest. Family discipline is strong, I have seen four young birds on a bough busy preening ~ one croak from the female and they were away. They remain together as a party until the autumn when the young are chased off by the parents. Let us see to it that the Raven continues to be a bird of the County and that in another 50 years someone will be able to record the fact. T.R. Ammonds.

Raven at nest. Photo: H.A. Gilbert & Arthur Brook. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 73

CLASSIFIED NOTES

The list follows the sequence and nomenclature ofProf. K.H. Voous (1977, List of Recent Holarc.tic Bird Species) as published in The 'British Birds' "List of Birds of the Western Palearctic" 1978. PrefiXes Hand R refer to Herefordshire and Radnorshire. CO denotes Club Outing. Square brackets denote a need for confmnation. Large numbers are generally approximations.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER Gavia immer. R. Dec. 26th, Uan Bwch-Uyn, an immature bird watched for fifteen minutes (SW/AJP). (Second record).

LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ru/icollis. H. Breeding confirmed at Hampton Bishop, two adults and four small young on July 20th (JLF), Shobdon (TRA) and Wadow Pool (THRO). R. Single pairs nesting at Uyn Hilyn, Park Farm, near Moelienydd, and at Wern-Fawr, Howey (MFP). A late breeding pair noted at Uyn Hilyn on Oct. 9th when two adults were seen feeding a very young chick (MFP) Recorded from another 16 sites widely distributed throughout the Club area, but numbers appear to be down on 1981 counts. Maxima were: three at Glasbury on Jan. 2nd and Feb. 15th, three near Linton, Ross-on-Wye on Feb. 16th, three at Builth Wye on Feb. 24th and four at Uyn Hilyn on June 20th and the same number there on Oct. 9th.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus. H. Feb. 13th, Flintsham, three and one at Eywood on the same date (CJP); Feb. 28th, Shobdon Decoy Pool, a pair seen displaying (TRA); March 16th, Eywood, a pair, and three seen at Flintsham on March 19th (CJP); April 4th, a pair seen on the Wye at Castleton (AJS). Present throughout spring and summer at Preston-on-Wye (THRO). Breeding noted at Bodenham Gravel Pits (three pairs with broods), Eywood (pair with young) and Shobdon (three pairs with broods). Oct. 23rd, Flintsham, five (CJP). R. Uandrindod. First birds returned to lake on Feb. 12th. May 14th, a pair with four young; July 23rd, two adults and three juveniles (MFP). Uan Bwch-Uyn, Feb. 15th, two (MFP); April 10th, two (CO); July 11 th, max. 12 counted (SW/AJP). Glan Uyn. A pair with young noted in August (DWL). Caban Coch. One noted in August (DWL). 74 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

MANX SHEARWATERPuffinus puffinus. H. One picked up at Newton Cross Roads during the last week of September and taken to Hereford vet, (Mr. Jinman of Rylands Street), where it made a good recovery and was subsequently released off the South Wales coast (per J. Cooter, Keeper of Natural History, Hereford City).

CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo. H. Regularly seen along the Wye throughout the year except during May and June. The Carey Islands roost held c50 birds on Dec. 30th (KAM). Other large counts were: six at Castleton on Jan. 30th (AM), and 12 there on Feb. 7th (AJS), nine at Sink Green on Feb. 24th (JLF), 12 at Letton on Feb. 28th (CO), ten at Castleton on March 21st (AJS) and ten at Sink Green on Dec. 1st (JLF). R. Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, one (MFP); Jan. 13th, Pwll Patti, three (CJP); Feb. 3rd, Llandrindod, one (MFP); July 18th, Elan, two (DWL); Oct. 9th, Glasbury, two flying west (MFP); Nov. 9th, Glasbury, one, and three there on Nov. 21st (CO).

BI'ITERN Botaurus stellaris. ~ H. Following the report of one near Kington on Dec. 31 st, 1981 two were found dead at the edge of the Lugg at Bodenham in January when the flood water subsided. (CWW). A rare vagrant to the County, these three records coincide with the hard weather movement of this species which occurred around these dates and was noted elsewhere in Britain. Ed.

HERON Ardea cinerea. H. and R. In spite of the severe winter weather the local herons appear to have generally survived well and records are numerous from both Counties. The heronry counts are as follows: H. Bredwardine, 9 nests (l0); Foy, 2 (new site); Leach Pool 6 (7). No count was made at the Berrington heronry this year. R. Cefndyrys, 15 (24); Penybont, 5 (3); Rhayader, 2 (2). Figures in brackets indicate 1981 counts.

MUTE SWAN Cygnus oler. H. Records are numerous and the larger counts were as follows: March 13th, Clifford, 17 (JP's); March 14th, Letton, 14 (IBE); Dec. 5th, Castleton, nine (AJS). Adults with young noted as follows: Aug. 7th and Sept. 18th, Castleton, pair with three juveniles (AM); Oct. 4th, Hole-in-the-Wall, Foy, pair with six very small cygnets (FRF); Dec. 27th, Hoarwithy, pair with two juveniles (WOD). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 75

R. Breeding pair noted at Glasbury and adults and/or young birds noted as follows: Aug. 17th, Glasbury, pair with six juveniles; Sept. 22nd, Builth, pair with six juveniles (MFP); Nov. 2nd, Hindwell, six cygnets (HTR). Larger counts were: Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, 15 (MFP); Jan. 13th, Rhyds­ pence, 16 (JMB) and 29 (mostly immatures) at the same locality on April 10th (AM); Oct. 9th, Glasbury, ten (MFP). MFP reported that in early July a family party at Glasbury was joined by a Black Swan Cygnus atratus. (This was probably the same escaped bird seen at Ross-onWye, in February 1981. Ed.)

BEWICK'S SWAN Cygnus columbianus. H. Jan. 21st, Tidnor, 24 (all adults) seen on floods (JLF); Jan. 23rd Ivington, 8 adults and 9 immatures on Arrow floods (ME). R. Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, one (MFP); Jan. 20th - Feb. 19th, PwIl Patti, max. 12 (JMB et al); Dec. 31st, PwIl Patti, three immatures (KAM).

WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus. R. Jan. 3rd, Llowes, four (FWM et al); Jan. 20th, Glasbury, nine (JMB); PwIl Patti, seven present Jan. 30th - Feb. 19th (AM/MFP); Nov. 21st, Pwll Patti, three (CO) and the same number there on Dec. 31st (KAM). Formerly a rare winter visitor, this species has, in recent years, become a regular winter visitor to the Glasbury area. Ed.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser albi[rons. H. Feb. 6th, Criftin Ford, five (CO).

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis. H. Jan. 30th, Castleton, 40 (AM) and 33 there on Feb. 7th (AJS); Feb. 6th, Criftin Ford, 100+ (CO); Aug. 10th, Warlow Pool, 31 (THRO); Sept. 9th, Brinsop, 12, Nov. 7th, Castleton, 130 and 210 there on Dec. 5th (AJS). R. March 12th, Penybont, three and three pairs with 13 young there on June 11th (MFP).

BARNACLE GOOSE Branta leucopsis. H. March 29th - 31st, Eywood, eight (CJP et al).

SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna. H. Dec. 3rd, Sink Green, one (JLF). 76 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

WIGEON Anas penelope. H. Jan. 21st, Tidnor, c50 (JLF); Jan. 30th, Castleton, 26 (AM); Feb. 6th, Criftin Ford, 34 (CO); Feb. 28th, Letton 115 (CO); March 7th, Sink Green, six (JLF); March 14th, Castleton, ten (AJS). First return­ ing birds noted on Nov. 7th when 12 seen at Castleton (AJS); Dec. 3rd, Sink Green, six (JLF). R. Jan. 2nd, Pwll Patti, 62 and 11 there on Feb. 15th; Feb. 26th, Llandrindod, a female; Oct. 9th, Pwll Patti, a female (MFP); Oct. 22nd, Hindwell, five (CJP); Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, a pair (MFP).

GADWALL Anas strepera. H. Feb. 16th, Gatsford Pond, near Ross-on-Wye, a pair (FRF); April 11 th, Kings Caple/Fawley, c7 pairs (PGB's); June 10th, Foy, noted on Club Outing. R. Nov. 14th, Hindwell, a pair (CJP).

TEAL Anas crecca. H. Jan. 21st, Tidnor, 25 (JLF); Jan. 30th, Backney Wye, nine (WOD); Feb. 24th, Sink Green, 27 (JLF); Feb. 28th, Letton, 49 and 20 at Castleton on the same date (CO); March 12th, Sink Green, seven (JLF); April 11 th, Preston-on-Wye, two (AM); Dec. 5th, Castleton, seven (AlS); Dec. 29th, Sink Green, eight (JLF). R. Jan. 2nd, Pwll Patti, 58; Jan. 30th, Penybont, ten (MFP); Feb. 14th, Belli-Bedw, 15 (CJP); Feb. 15th, Pwll Patti, 25 and six at Rhosgoch on the same date; Feb. 16th, Llyn Hilyn, 11; March 12th, Penybont, six (MFP); April 6th, Rhosgoch, six; April 11th, Moelienydd, three (FWM) and 12 at the same locality on Aug. 18th (DWL); Sept. 11 th, Llan Bwch-Llyn, five; Nov. 20th Moelienydd, ten and 22 at St. Mich­ ael's Pool on the same date; Nov. 25th, Newbridge, six (MFP); Dec. 28th, Llyn Hilyn, nine (SW/AlP).

MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos. H. and R. A common resident, breeding in both Counties. Records are numerous and the larger counts were: Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, 130 (MFP); Jan. 5th, HoarwithYt50 (WOD); Feb. 12th, Llandrindod, 64, (MFP); Feb. 28th, Letton, 62 (CO); Oct. 9th, Glasbury, SOt, and 40 at Hindwell on the same date (MFP); Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, 55; Nov. 26th, Llandrindod, 70; Dec. 21st, Caban Coch, 42 (MFP).

SHOVELER Anas c1ypeata. H. Warlow Pool, a male present for several days in July (THRO). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 77

POCHARD Aythya[erina H. Feb. 24th, Hampton Bishop, two (JLF); Feb. 28th, Letton, six (CO); March 4th, Eywood, ten (CJP); Oct. 28th, Eywood, five (JLF) and six there on Nov. 12th (CJP). R. Jan. 2nd, Pwll Patti, three and a female there on Feb. 15th, (MF}»; Aug. 31st, Llan Bwch-Llyn, five (JLF); Nov. 21st, Pwll Patti, one (CO); Nov. 25th, Llyn Gwlch Lake, six; Dec. 4th, Elan, one (DWL); Dec. 21st, Caban Coch, a male (MFP); Dec. 28th, Llyn Hilyn, one (SW/AJP).

TUFTED DUCK Anas [uligula. H. Many records throughout the year and successful breeding noted at Bodenham Gravel Pits (CWW), Shobdon (TRA) and Staunton-on-Arrow (JMB). Other records come from Bredwardine (AM), Broomy Court Lakes (pJK), Eywood, max. 50 (CJP), Letton, max. 38 (CO), Moccas (AM) and Shobdon, max. 24 (TRA). R. Records are numerous and come from Caban Coch, Glasbury, max. 16 (MFP), Hindwell (HTR et al), Llan Bwch-Llyn, max. 80 (SW/AJP et a1), Llyn Hilyn, Pencerrig and Pwll Patti (MFP).

COMMON SCOTERMelanitta nigra. R. Aug. 3rd, Claerwen, four (DWL).

GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula. H. Jan. 19th, Hampton Bishop, three; Jan. 25th, Sink Green, a pair (JLF); Feb. 7th, Castleton, five (AJS); Feb. 25th, near Linton, Ross­ on-Wye, a female (FRF); March 6th, Eywood, three males (CJP); March 14th, Castleton, four (AJS); Nov. 11th, Eywood, a female (CJP), Nov. 14th, Aymestrey, a male (FWM). R. Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, three; Feb. 19th, Pwll Patti, a pair (MFP); Oct. 30th, Llan Bwch-Llyn, a female (SW/AJP); Nov. 21st, Glasbury, three males and four females (CO); Nov. 25th, Elan, four (DWL); Dec. 21st, Caban Coch, five (MFP).

GOOSANDER Mergus merganser H. Jan. 21st, Holme Lacy, a male;·Jan. 25th, Sink Green, a 'redhead' (JLF); Jan. 30th, Castleton, three (AM) and three there on Feb. 7th (AJS); Feb. 24th, Holme Lacy, four and present there throughout March (max. 8) (JLF); March 13th, Bredwardine, a male; April 2nd, Holme Lacy, four and two there on April 9th (JLF); Apri13rd, Castle­ ton, two; April 15th, Whitney Court Wye, four 'redheads' and April 22nd, Castleton, one (AM). Oct. 3rd, Castleton, a 'redhead' (AM); Nov. 17th, Hampton Bishop, one and two males there on Dec. 3rd and one 'redhead' on Dec. 9th (JLF). 78 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

R. Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, three and four at Llanfaredd on the same date; Jan. 29th, Builth, 10 on the Wye; Feb. 9th, Newbridge Bog, a male; Feb. 10th, Penmincae Wye, five (MFP); March 14th, Elan Valley, three (lBE); April 4th, Llan Bwch-Llyn, a male and two females (AMI FWM) and seven 'redheads'there on April 10th (CO); April 16th, Glasbury, 19 flying north-west (MFP); July 22nd, Rhayader, 20 'redheads' on the Wye (DWL); Sept. 10th, Penmincae Wye, seven 'redheads' (MFP); Nov. 7th, Glasbury, one (KAM); Nov. 12th, Elan, three (DWL); Nov. 21st, Glasbury, three (CO); Nov. 23rd, Llandrindod Ithon, a pair; Dec. 21st, Elan, three and Dec. 29th, Erwood, one (MFP). RUDDY DUCK Oxyura jamaicensis. H. May 4th, Eywood, two males (KAM).

RED KITE Milvus milvus. R. There are seven records from the usual areas.

HEN HARRIER arcus cyaneus. R. Recorded in autumn on three occasions.

GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis. H. April 4th, Castleton area, one well viewed (AJS). This, sadly, was the only record received this year.

SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus. H. and R. This species is now fmnly re-established and at least 70 records were received from more than 40 localities widely distributed over both Counties.

BUZZARD Buteo buteo. H. and R. Numerous records receIved from both Counties and breeding confmned from at least 14 localities. The larger counts were: March 13th, six between Upper and Great Goytre (JP's); April 10th, Llanbedr, five (CO); April 17th, Lyepole, five (FWM/AM); Nov. 20th, Moelienydd area, six and Dec. 4th, Abbeycwmhir, five (MFP).

OSPREY Pandion haliaetus. H. April IIth, one seen between Foy and Baysham (PGB's); July 10th, Leintwardine, one over Teme (per TRA); Sept. 4th - 6th, Leintwar­ dine, one (per TRA). R. Sept. 4th, near Knighton, one (JP's).· HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 79

KESTREL FaZco tinnuncuZus. H. and R. Appears to have survived the winter weather well. Records are numerous and are widely distributed over both Counties, although nowhere is it common.

MERLIN FaZco coZumbarius. H. Feb. 7th, West Herefordshire, one (lBE). R. Feb. 10th, Llandrindod, a female which was injured flying into a window at Llandrindod High School was successfully released one week later (MFP). There are several other records at various times of the year.

HOBBY FaZco subbuteo. H. Only one sighting reported this year.

PEREGRINE FaZco peregrinus. R. Among the eleven records received sightings were made near Bough­ rood, Builth, Elan Valley and Llyn Hilyn.

RED GROUSE Lagopus Zagopus. H. March 27th, Olchon, three (KAM). R. Jan. 23rd, Moel-guefron, near Rhayader, three (per MFP); March 7th, Black Mixen, two (FWM); April 10th, Llanbedr, four (CO); Sept. 12th, Radnor Forest, five (TRA) and six there on Oct. 10th (FWM); Oct. 12th, heard calling above Beili-Bedw (HTR); Dec. 29th, Aberedw, heard calling (MFP). 'A better breeding season on Radnor Hills' (TRA).

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE AZectoris ruta. H. Jan. 3rd, Hoarwithy, 12 (WOD); Jan. 3rd - Feb. 13th, Luston, covey of 13 (GAB); Jan. 31st, Clifford, one (AJS); Feb. 25th, Tretire, two, (WOD); March 14th, Castleton, two (AJS); April, Shobdon, 'very noisy' (TRA); Sept. 26th, Luston, 13 (GAB); Oct. 20th, Shobdon, 18 (TRA); AJS reports no sign of breeding at Holme Marsh where regularly breeding previously. R. Oct. 24th, Four Stones, nine (CJP). 80 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

GREY PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix. H. A fairly average season although very few large coveys noted except as follows: Aug. 22nd, Llanwarne, 19 (PJK); Aug. 30th, Pembridge Castle, 20 (per FMP); Oct. 4th, :St.Owen's Cross, seven; Dec. 12th, Michaelchurch, ten (WOD). Other records, mostly ofsingles and pairs, come from Bridstow, Brilley, Hoy, Rudge End, Stansbatch, and Tretire. Breeding noted at Garway and Holme Marsh. R. Jan. 2nd, Pwll Patti, five (MFP); Feb. 15th, Glasbury area, two (MFP); March 2nd, Bradnor, a pair; Aug. 4th, Kinnerton, covey of 12 of which 10 were young birds (JMB); Oct. 24th, Four Stones, eight (CJP); Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, four (MFP).

QUAIL Cotumix cotumix. Another poor year for records. H. May 20th, Stansbatch, calling (JMB); June 2nd, Holme Marsh, calling well but did not stay (AJS); July 27th, Michaelchurch, one calling from ripe barley field (WOD); Aug. Madley, heard calling (TRHO). 'None located at Shobdon this year' (TRA).

PHEASANT Phasianus colchicus. H. and R. A common resident, breeding in both Counties.

WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus H. Feb. 7th, Aymestrey Pools, two, possibly three (FWM). R. Oct. 22nd, Newbridge, one (JLF) and one at the same locality on Nov. 25th (MFP). A poor showing which suggests that this species may have been badly affected by the severe winter weather. Ed.

MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus. H. and R. This species suffered mixed fortunes during the severe winter weather, being very badly affected in Radnorshire but less so in Herefordshire. However, a good breeding season in both Counties will have done much to restore the balance.

COOT Fulica atra. H. Very few records received but present at many localities widely distributed over the County. Ed. Jan. 16th, Franchise Stone Wye, three (BEM); April - July, Moccas, small numbers present and breeding noted (AM); Nov. 30th, Brobury Court Pool, two (PJK). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 81·

R. MFP reports 'Only one record in January - three at Pwll Patti on Jan. 2nd. Numbers were getting back to normal mid-Feb. and early March e.g. Feb. 16th, Llyn Hilyn, 16; Feb. 19th, Pwll Patti, 20; March 4th, Pencerrig, six. Also recorded at Llan Bwch-Llyn, Llandrindod, Penybont Lake, Rhosgoch and Wern Fawr Pool, Howey.' Two pairs reared four young at Glan Llyn (DWL). Oct. 9th, Hindwell, 34 and 25 at Llyn Hilyn on the same date. Nov. 20th, Park Farm, Moelienydd, four and Dec. 5th - 11 th, Pen­ cerrig Lake, six (MFP).

OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus R. Aug., Llowes, one (RM).

UTILE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius. H. Recorded from four localities and breeding confirmed from at least two sites.

Little Ringed Plover Photo: Arthur Butler A.R.P.S 82 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

RINGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula. H. Nov. 5th, Holme Marsh, one seen for several minutes and heard calling (AJS).

GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis. apricaria. H. March 28th, Shobdon Airfield, lOOt (TRA); April 11 th, Monkland, 20 (FWM et al); Aug. 22nd, Shobdon Airfield, ten, first returning birds; sOOt there on Oct. 3rd and 200t on Dec. 5th (TRA); Dec. 18th, Hereford, c30 on Lower Lugg meadows (CWW). R. Jan. 2nd, Llowes, five (MFP); March 27th, Llanwentre Pool, four in breeding plumage (CJP); April 11 th, Moelienydd, 60t (FWM et al); Sept. 11 th, Llowes, seven (MFP); Oct. 30th, Moelienydd, nine (AJS). (Numbers down on 1981 counts. Ed.).

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus. H. and R. Although the breeding status remains at a low ebb several observers have reported signs of an increase in the number of pairs breeding and it is to be hoped that this upward trend will continue. As usual some large flocks were noted during the winter, late summer and autumn. Maxima were: Jan. 31st, Castleton, 200 moving up Wye; Feb. 12th, Huntington, 700 (AJS); July 13th, Hampton Bishop, 162, first flock of returning birds (JLF); July 18th, Stretton Sugwas, 400 (FWMj' AM); Aug. 1st, Castleton, 300 (AM); Aug. 23rd, 400 over Dinedor (JLF); Aug. 26th, Penybont, 500 (M FP) and 550 at Holme Lacy on the same date (JLF); Sept. lOth, Holme Lacy, 1000 (JLF); Sept. 11th, Llowes, 500 (MFP); Sept. 12th, Castleton, 600 (AM); Sept. 28th, Holme Lacy, 200 and 500 there on Oct. 2nd (JLF); Oct. 3rd, Shobdon, 1000 on airfield (TRA); Oct. 30th, Moelienydd, 100 (HTR). Small flocks of between 50 and 100 birds noted at Glasbury, Llanyre and Penybont (MFP).

DUNLIN Calidris alpina. H. Jan. 3rd, Monkland, two (FWM et al); April 4th, Castleton, one coming into summer plumage (AJS); April 9th, Sink Green, one (JLF); Oct. 3rd, Castleton, one (AM). R. April 23rd, Claerwen, two (DWL). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 83

SNIPE Gallinago gallinago. H. and R. Nowhere common, the larger counts were: Jan. 31st, Shob­ don, 21 (TRA); April 9th, Rhosgoch, nine (MFP); May 21st, Moe1­ ienydd, seven 'drumming' (JLF); May 30th, Bucton, ten (FWMjAM); Aug. 10th, Castleton, ten (KAM); Sept. 11th, Glasbury, eight and ten there on Oct. 9th, (MFP); Oct. 31st, Shobdon, 18 (TRA); Dec. : 2nd, Hereford, Upper Lugg meadows, 'wisps' at intelVals, max. 15 (CWW); Dec. 7th, Holme Lacy, nine (JLF). Small numbers reported from Black Mixen, Franchise Stone Wye, Glan Llyn, Glascwm, Holme Marsh, Llanbadarn Fynydd, Llandrindod, Llanwentre Pool, Llyn Hilyn, Newbridge, Painscastle, Penybont, Rhayader and Titley.

WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticola. H. Feb. 28th, Castleton, one (CO); March 24th, Mansel LacY,one (JLF); April 20th, Shobdon, roding (TRA); May 2nd, Mansel Lacy, one (JLF); Dec. Shobdon, three flushed during shoot (TRA); Dec. 4th, near Doward Hotel, one (WOD). R. Feb. 5th, Disserth, two (MFP); April 4th, Llan Bwch-Llyn, one flushed above farm (AMjFWM); April 16th, Glasbury, one flushed by Wye (MFP); May 20th, Elan Valley, one (DWL); singles seen at Moelienydd on Nov. 20th, Newbridge on Nov. 25th and Abbeycwmhir on Dec. 4th (MFP).

CURLEW Numenius arquata. H. and R. Numerous records and breeding reported from several local­ ities. MFP reports 'No apparent reduction in numbers at Moelienydd but absent or in reduced numbers in marginal areas. Breeding pairs down by 10-15% after winter.' The larger counts were Jan. 2nd, GlasburyjLlowes, 70 (MFP); Feb. 7th, Llowes, 30 (SWjAJP); Feb. 23rd, Criftin Ford, 50+ (FWM); Aug. 17th, Glasbury, c60 (MFP); Nov. 21st, GlasburyjLlowes, 23 (CO); Dec. 26th, Llowes, 29 (SWjAJP).

REDSHANK Tringa totanus. H. Feb. 24th, Mordiford, one by Lugg (JLF); March 13th, Criftin Ford, five and five there on April 17th (FWM); April 18th, Castleton, two (AM); May 3rd, Leintwardine, four (FWM); May 4th, Hampton Bishop, two; June 5th, Leintwardine, one and July 4th, Aymestrey, two (JLF et al). 84 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

R. Feb. 27th, Moelienydd, two (CJP); April 3rd, Pwll Patti, three (AM); April 4th, Llanbedr, two and two at Rhosgoch on the same date (FWM); April 11th, Moelienydd, six (FWM); April 16th, Pwll Patti, two (MFP); May 21st, Moelienydd, four (JLF) and three pairs and a single there on June 12th (MFP) Breeding confirmed at Moel­ ienydd.

GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia. H. Aug. 9th, Hampton Bishop, two (JLF); Aug. 10th, Castleton, five (KAM); Aug. IIth, Mordiford, two; Aug. 12th, Sink Green, two and three there on Aug. 17th; Aug. 18th, Hampton Bishop, two and three there on Aug. 26th (JLF); Aug. 30th, Aymestrey, one (FWM). R. July 27th, Llowes, one (KAM); Aug. 2nd, one on pool above Llyn Hilyn; Aug. 17th, Glasbury, 12 (MFP); Aug. 21st, Llowes, three; Nov. 7th, Glasbury, one (KAM). After last year's record numbers passage this year was back to normal Ed.

GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus. H. Feb. 7th, Castleton, two (AJS); Feb.-24th, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF); March 13th, Criftin Ford, four (FWM et al); March 14th, Castle­ ton, two (AJS); April 18th, Sink Green, two and three there on April 20th (JLF); June 16th, Aymestrey, one: July 18th, Stretton Sugwas, two (FWM); Aug. 1st, Castleton, one and one there on Aug. 10th (AM/KAM); Sept. 28th, Stretton Sugwas, two (FWM). R. Pwll Patti, Jan. 2nd, one; March 21st, one; April 16th, two; Oct. 9th, three; Nov. 21st, two; Dec. 31st, one (MFP et all. Glasbury, July 13th, one (KAM); Sept. IIth, one (MFP). Moelienydd, July 21 st, one (JLF); Aug. 2nd, three (MFP). A less than average year. Ed.

COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos. H. First returning bird seen on April 14th at Franchise Stone (BEM), then seven at Criftin Ford on April 17th (FWM et al). April 18th, Castleton, seven (AJS) and six there on April 25th (AM); May 3rd, Leintwardine - Criftin Ford Bridge II pairs and 14 birds seen there on June 6th (FWM/AM); July 6th,Eywood, one (JMB); Castleton, five on Aug. I st, seven on Aug. 7th and 10 on Aug. 10th (AM et al); Aug. 12th, Sink Green, six (JLF); Aug. 13th,Llanwarne, one (PJK). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 8S

R. First returning bird seen on April 16th at Glasbury (MFP). April 27th, Llanstephan Wye, two (AM); May 21st, Moelienydd, two (JLF); July 2nd, Llyn Hllyn, an agitated pair (MFP). Breeding confinned at Moelienydd and on Wye and Ithon (MFP). Last seen on Aug. 17th at Glasbury (MFP).

UTILE GULL Larus mtnutus. R. Aug. 2nd, Moelienydd, an immature bird well viewed (MFP). (First record).

BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus rtdtbundus. H. and R. Common throughout the year in both Counties and regularly observed flying over to Welsh and Severn Estuary roosts. The larger counts were: Jan. 31st, Castleton, c400 moving up the Wye during the morning (AJS); Feb. 8th, Kington, 80 (CJP); Feb. 15th, 100 at Glas­ bury, 100 at Rhosgoch and 100 at Llan Bwch-Llyn; March, usual passage noted with max. 100 at Penybont on the 12th (MFP); April 10th, Llan Bwch-Llyn, cl000 (CO); Oct. 9th, Glasbury, 100 (MFP). Breeding confinned at Bodenham Gravel Pits (new colony), Llan Bwch-Llyn and Moelienydd.

COMMON GULL Larus canus. H. Jan. 26th, Bridstow, c50 (WOO); Jan. 31st, Castleton, three; Feb. 11 th, St. Weonards, c600 (AJS); Feb. 27th, Upper Lugg, cl000 on floods (CWW); March 14th, Castleton, two and one there on March 21st (AJS); July 13th, Hereford, a few on racecourse (KAM); July 20th, Norton Canon, one (AJS); Nov. 29th, Hereford, noted feeding with Black-headed Gulls (IBE); Dec. 27th, Hoarwithy, four (WOO). R. Jan 18th, Llandrindod, two flying south; March 17th, Newbridge, one flying north (MFP).

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL LaTUS [uscus. H. Jan. 31st, Castleton, 25; Feb. 12th, Stretton Sugwas, 30; March 14th, Castleton, seven; March 16th, Stretton Sugwas, c120, March 21st, Castleton, six and two at Whitney on the same date (AJS); July 8th, Stretton Sugwas, c200 (FWM/AM); Aug. 22nd, Holme Marsh, three flying west and six flying south; Aug. 23rd, Mansel Lacy, 20; Oct. 3rd, Holme Marsh, seven flying south-west (AJS). R. Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, five (MFP); Feb. 7th, Monaughty, four (CJP); May 23rd, Bullth, spring passage to north-east last noted; June 12th, Moelienydd, eight; July 5th, Llandrindod, return passage first noted (MFP); Aug. 10th, Moelienydd, ten (OWL). Noted mid-August to early December at BuDth, Glasbury, Llandrindod and Llowes, max. 9 at BuDth on Sept. 13th (MFP). 86 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

HERRING GULL Larus argentatus. H. March 16th, Stretton Sugwas, one adult and one immature {AJS); Dec. 18th, Sink Green, one (JLF).

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus. H. Jan. 31 st, Cast1eton, one (AJS). R. Jan. 2nd, G1asbury, one and one there on Feb. 15th, (MFP).

BLACK TERN Chlidonias niger. H. Sept. 12th, Stretton Sugwas Gravel Pits, one (AM).

STOCK DOVE Columba oenas. H. Jan. 30th, Eyton, 93 (FWM); June 10th, Foy, three (CO); June 24th, Nupend, song (CWW); nested in owl box at edge of Birchwood, SoUars Hope (FRF). R. Jan, 2nd, G1asbury, eight; Jan. 30th, Do1au, five; Feb. 14th, Llane1­ wedd, five; Feb. 15th, Rhosgoch, 16; Feb. - March, ones and two's noted at Howey, Llandrindod, Llanyre, Llyn Hilyn, Newbridge anll Penybont; Aug. 17th, G1asbury, max. 20; Oct. 9th, Four Stones, two; Nov. 20th, Penybont, two (MFP).

WOODPIGEON Columba palumbus. H. and R. Suffered badly during the severe winter weather but still remains a very common resident, breeding in both Counties.

COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto. H. and R. A common resident in both Counties and breeding. The larger counts were: Jan. 2nd. G1asbury, 36; Jan. 25th, Llandrindod, 22; Sept. 11th, G1asbury, max. 21 (MFP); Oct. 31st, Ho1me Marsh, 50 on wires (AJS).

TURTLE DOVE Streptopelia turtur. H. May 15th, Backney, one (WOD); May 20th, Haugh Wood, four (JLF); May 22nd, Wigmore, five (FWM); May 30th, Easthampton, first noted, and at least six in song on June 10th (TRA); June/July, song heard at Bridstow, Co1ebrook Wood, Fownhope and Haugh Wood (CWW et at); Aug. 4th, Dinedor, four (JLF); Aug. 30th, Llanwarne, one (PJK). R. Sept. 11 th, Llowes, one (MFP).

CUCKOO Cuculus canorus. H. First heard on April 18th at Aymestrey (FWM) with the main arrival continuing to the end of April. Heard calling throughout May and June. Aug. 7th, Cast1eton, a juvenile on passage (AM). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 87

R. First heard on April 16th at Pantydwr (JVF). MFP reported that numbers were at or slightly above normal. Aug. 17th, Llowes, ajuven­ ile (MFP). BARN OWL Tyto alba. H. Dead birds found in barns at Brierley, Lawton and Luston in Jan­ uary (TRA), but otherwise appears to have survived the severe winter weather reasonably well, although nowhere is it common. Records of single birds come from Llanwame, Monkhide, Samesfie1d, Sink Green, Sutton, Titley, Vowchurch and Yarsop. R. Jan. 12th, Llandrindod, one; Jan. 18th, Rhayader, two (per MFP).

LITTLE OWL Athene noctua. H. Appears to have been little affected by the severe winter weather and records are numerous throughout the year and come from all parts of the County. R. Three records, all from Llowes, Jan. 2nd, onei April 16th, one and Aug. 17th, a juvenile (MFP).

TAWNY OWL Strix aluco H. Jan. 20th, Welsh Newton, noted (FMP); March 24th, Sollars Hope, heard (FRF); April 16th, Ballingham, one (AM); July 11 th, Kings Acre, one (KR); Sept./Oct. Llanwame, heard (PJK). Breeding noted near Holme Marsh (AJS) and at Swinmoor, Mad1ey (THRO). R. Jan. - March, noted at Disserth, Llowes and Penmincae. Nov. 20th, Llanbister Road, two calling; Dec. 21st. near Vulcan Arms, one (MFP); Dec. 26th, Painscastle, two (SW/AJP).

LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus. R. Nov. 15th, one seen on post beside Llangun110 - Llanbister road by John Griffiths (per MFP).

SHORT-EARED OWL Asiolflammeus. H. March 27th, Olchon, one (KAM); Oct. 30th, Llancillo area, one (per JLF). R. Dec. 1st, Gwuan area, one flushed by hounds (TRA).

SWIFT Apus apus. H. One over Castle Green, Hereford on May 1st (IBE) was the first with the main arrival occurring on May 3rd, with lOOt seen at Leint­ wardine (FWM/AM). Last reported on Aug. 27th when two seen at Dinmore (JLF). 88 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

R. First seen at Glasbury on May 3rd with numbers steadily building up thereafter. May 8th, max. 50. Main return passage at Builth occurr­ ed between July 26th and Aug. 4th with 80 noted on latter date. Last seen on Aug. 22nd (MFP).

KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis. H. Jan. 1st, Lower Bullingham, one (AM); March 7th, Franchise Stone, one (BEM); April 6th, Holme Lacy Wye, one (AM); April 22nd, Sink Green, a courting pair (JLF); Late May, Capler Wye, one (KAM); June, Fownhope Wye, one (per KAM); Aug. 4th, Hampton Bishop, two (JLF); Aug. 21st, Llanwarne, one at a pool (PJK); Sept. 14th, Tidnor Lugg, one (AJS); Sept. 21st, Backney Wye, one (WOD); Sept. 25th, Hampton Park, Hereford, one (BEM); Dec. 5th, Castleton, one (AJS); Dec. 10th, Franchise Stone, one (BEM). R. Not recorded until Aug. 31st when one seen on lake at Pentrosfa, Llandrindod, by P. Thompson (per MFP). Sept. 11 th, Glasbury, four and one at Erwood on the same date; Oct. 9th, Glasbury, one; Dec. 29th, Erwood, one (MFP).

HOOPOE Upupa epops. H. Goodrich, one reported by R. Treherne (per MPW) and what was probably the same bird was also seen at Ross-on-Wye, both these sightings were in late August. Holme Lacy, one seen most days from about Nov. 3rd until Nov. 24th by Mr. & Mrs. R. Garnett (per JLF).

GREEN WOODPECKER Picus virldis. H. Records come from Aymestrey, Brilley, Castleton, Cusop, Ganarew, Hentland, Hergest Croft, Kingsland, Lyepole, Moccas, Sollars Hope, Tretire and Welsh Newton and cover all months of the year. The indications are that the severe winter has had a marked effect upon the numbers. Ed. R. 'Very badly affected by severe winter in areas visited with numbers much reduced' (MFP). Jan. 2nd, Pwll Patti, one and one at Glasbury on the same date: Jan. 30th, Penybont, two; March 27th - July 21st, recorded only from Llanelwedd Quarry, Park Farm, Moelienydd, Penybont and Old Rad­ nor. Juveniles seen at Cefndyrys on July 26th, Glasbury on Aug. 17th, Penybont on Aug. 26th and Builth Quarry on many dates to Oct. Heard calling at Llananno on Dec. 4th and near Rhayader on Dec. 21st (M FP). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 89

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos major. H. Less severely affected by 1981/82 winter than previous species. Records are numerous throughout the year and come from Brilley, Dinedor, Hentland, Hereford, Hergest Croft, How Caple, Llanwame, Luston, Nupend, Pedwardine, Sellack, Shobdon, Sollars Hope, Tretire and Welsh Newton. R. Survived the winter reasonably well (MFP). Records come from Aberedw, Builth, Cefnllys, Glasbury, Llandrindod, Llowes, Pencerrig, Pwll Patti and Rhayader and cover all months of the year.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos minor. H. April 2nd, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF); Nov. 11th, Kington, one (CJP). These were the only records received. However, due to the elusive nature of this species it is impossible to determine what effect, if any, the severe winter has had on numbers. Ed.

SKYLARK Alauda arvensis. H. and R. Very few records submitted. Max. counts were: Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, ten; Oct. 9th, Four Stones, 25 (MFP); Nov. 14th, Llanwame, 18 (PJK); Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, 12 (MFP). Passage noted at Here­ ford on Oct. 8th (AJS), Glasbury on Oct. 9th (MFP) and Holme Marsh to Nov. 6th (AJS).

SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia. H. One at Castleton on March 28th (AJS) was the fIrst with three there on April 3J;d (AM). April 4th, Sink Green, one (JLF); April 8th, Hereford Wye, a flock of clSO (AJS). FWM reported that the numbers at the Aymestrey colony were 'up on 1981 and CWW recorded a new colony at Burghill Sand Quarry. One at Hampton Bishop on Sept. 28th (JLF) was the last. R. First noted at Builth on April 6th and 100+ at Glasbury on April 16th (MFP). May 21st, Moelienydd, a small colony (JLF); May 23rd, Builth Quarry, 60 - 70 nests; Aug. 17th, Glasbury, max. 150; Sept. 15th, one at Builth was the last (MFP).

SWALLOW Hirundo rustica. H. First noted at Garway on April 4th (KAM) with the main arrival occurring April 12th - 18th, and numbers considered to be up on 1981. The only large pre-migration flock reported was of cl00 at Hampton Bishop on Aug. 27th (JLF). Last noted on Oct. 3rd when one at Castleton (AM) and two at Easthampton (TRA).

1 90 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

R. The fIrst birds seen on April 16th by MFP who reports 'Numbers at or slightly above 1981'. The larger pre-migration flocks were: Sept. 11th, Glasbury, 100+; Sept. 15th, Newbridge, 300+. Two at Penybont on Oct. 6th were the last.

HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica. H. Two at Paytoe on April 17th (FWMjAM) were the first with num­ bers building up steadily to the end of April. Oct. 2nd, Holme Marsh, cl20. The last was at Hereford on Oct. 12th (AJS). R. April 26th, Glasbury, fIrst birds seen and widespread by May 10th but nest building delayed by dry conditions (MFP). Pre-migration flocks noted as follows: Sept. 11th, Glasbury, cl50; Sept. 15th, New­ bridge, 100+ and a similar number at Builth on the same date. The last was seen at Llandrindod on Oct. 12th (MFP). '

TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis. H. April 20th, Sarnesfield, song (AJS); April 24th, LyepolejAymes­ trey, 10 (CO); April 26th, Mansel Lacy, three singing (JLF); May 10th, Shobdon, noted (RLV); May I l>th, Haugh Wood, song (CWW). R. April 14th, Nash, noted (JMB); April 26th, Glasbury, noted; Sept. 6th, Builth Quarry, one (MFP).

MEADOW PIPIT Anthus pratensis. H. March 14th, Holme Marsh, frrst return passage evident and con­ tinued until April 13th with a late single on April 24th. Autumn passage began Sept. 12th (AJS). R. Jan. - March, not noted until frrst returning birds in mid-March. Sept., BuilthjLlandrindod, light passage throughout the month; Nov. 3rd, Llandrindod, max. 25. Only the Abbeycwmhir square had no birds during the Winter Atlas count (MFP).

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava. H. Seven by Hereford Wye on April 8th (AJS) were the fIrst and thereafter records come from Bridstow, Bucton, Castleton, Dinedor, Foy, Franchise Stone, Hampton Bishop, Llanwarne, Mansel Lacy, Shobdon, Stretton Sugwas, Tidnor and Tretire with breeding noted in many of these areas. The last was a single at Hereford on Oct. 1st (AJS). R. First noted at Glasbury on April 16th (MFP). July 22nd, Elan Valley, family of four (DWL); Aug. 26th, Penybont, passage noted; singles at Builth on Sept. 3rd and 13th, Llandrindod on Sept. 9th and seven at Glasbury on Sept. 11 th (MFP). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 91

GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea. H. Feb. 27th, Holme Marsh, one noted on passage (AJS); May 3rd, Lyepole, female feeding young (JLF); June 24th, Brilley, one and four on Aug. 8th (WL-S); Sept. 12th, Holme Marsh, autumn move­ ment noted (coincided with the start of Meadow Pipit passage); Oct. 8th, Hereford Wye, two (AJS); Oct. 10th, Llanwame, one (PJK). R. Jan. - July, badly affected by severe winter with very few pairs located (MFP); May 21st, Llanbister Road, pair (JLF); July/Aug. young birds seen at Abbeycwmhir, Builth, Glasbury, Penybont and Rhulen (MFP); Nov. 11 th, PainscastIe, one (AJS); Dec. 21 st, Rhayader, one (MFP).

PIED WAGTAIL Motacilla alba. H. and R. Very few birds observed during the severe weather with 15 at Shobdon on Feb. 7th (TRA) being the largest gathering rep­ orted. It was a good breeding season and in the late summer and autumn some large gatherings were noted as follows: Sept., Lland­ rindod, the usual flocks at this time of year with rnax. 70 on the 7th and 60+ noted at Builth on the same date (MFP); Nov. 12th, Here­ ford Wye, cIOO (AJS); Dec. 13th, Llanwame, 12 (PJK).

DIPPER Cinclus cinclus. H. and R. From the records received the indications are that Dippers have survived the hard winter reasonably well.

WREN Troglodytes troglodytes. H. and R. Very severely affected by 1981/82 winter in both Counties. However it was a good breeding season and this will have helped to­ wards a quick recovery.

DUNNOCK Prunella modularis. H. and R. Numbers down on 1981 due to severe winter, but remains a common resident in both Counties.

ROBIN Erithacus rubecula H. and R. A common resident, breeding in both Counties, but in reduced numbers owing to the severe winter.

NIGHTINGALE Luscinia megarhynchos. H. April 25th, Shucknall, two singing (CWW); May 14th, Ross-on-Wye, seen and heard (DS); May 16th - 28th, Broadmoor Common, two singing (JLF et al). 92 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

BLACK REDSTART Phoenicurus ochruros. H. Nov. 14th, Sandiacre, Aymestrey, a female (FWM) which was subsequently seen at Mortimer's Cross Mill by Mrs. Youst. Nov. 17th, Bodenham, one (CDNJ); Dec. 23rd, Ivington, a female (G. Ewart).

REDSTART Phoenicurus phoenicurus. H. April 18th, Lingen, one (JMB) and in song at Cast1eton on the same date with two pairs subsequently breeding there (AJS); April 21st, Moccas, a male (AM); April 24th, Lyepo1e, three in song (CO); July 14th - 18th, Welsh Newton, a female and two juveniles (FMP); Aug. 27th, Hampton Bishop, four (JLF); Sept. 1st, Sink Green, a female (DAG). R. The Irrst was at Llane1wedd on April 6th (MFP). April 10th, Llan­ bedr, one (CO); April 16th, Pantydwr, song (JLF); May 9th, Cefn­ dyrys, noted on Club Outing; June 10th, Tylemans Dingle, 'numerous' (TRA); Aug. 28th, noted at R)lU1en and Cregrina (MFP); Aug. 31st, Llan Bwch-Llyn, seven (JVF).

WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra. H. May 2nd, Shobdon Airfield, one (TRA); May 3rd, Bucton, a pair (FWM); May 5th, Holme Lacy, a female (JLF); May 8th, Wap1ey, noted (RLV); Aug. 26th, Llanwarne, a pair with juvenile (PJK); Aug. 28th, Hampton Bishop, one and one on Sept. 2nd/3rd (JLF); Aug. 31st, Stretton Sugwas, one (FWM). R. April 25th, Moelienydd, a male (AJS); MFP reports 'Main arrival May 1st - 8th with numbers up on 1981 in some areas'. May 9th, Baiti Bychan Common, numerous (CO). May 21st, Moelienydd, three males and two females (JLF); Aug. 25th, Llyn Hilyn, max. 12 (MFP); Aug. 31st, Llan Bwch-Llyn, noted (JLF); Sept. 11th, G1asbury, three (MFP).

STONECHAT Saxicola torquata. H. March 13th, Hereford, a passage bird seen alongside the railway track at Redhill (DAG). R. April 4th, Llanbedr Hill, a pair and a single male (AM/FWM) and a male seen there on April 24th (CWW); June 12th, Moelienydd, pair ciuTying food and two females noted in two other areas (MFP); June 19th, Rhulen Hill, pair (KAM); June 28th, Marteg, breeding pair (OWL); July 21st, Moelienydd, three juveniles (JLF); Sept. 11 th, Glasbury, a juvenile (MFP). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 93

WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe. H. One at Castleton on March 21st (AJS) was the first. May 5th, Holme Lacy, a female (JLF); May 26th, Titley, noted (RLV). (These last two dates are late for spring. Ed.). First noted on passage in early autumn on Aug. 4th at Holme Lacy (JLF). Aug. 10th, Mordi­ ford, one (JVF); Aug. 27th, Holme Lacy, two and singles there on Aug. 28th and Sept. 2nd (JLF). R. Four on Llanbedr Hill on April 4th (AM/FWM) were the fITst with 20t there on April 10th (CO). April 11 tb, Moelienydd, one (FWM); April 24th, Llanbedr, pair nesting (CWW). The last seen in autumn was a single at Builth on Sept. 20th (MFP).

RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus. H. March 27th, Olchon, two males (KAM). R. April 4th, Llanbedr Hill, two males (AM/FWM) and one male there on April 10th (CO); April 20th, Elan Valley, two (DWL); May 24th, Elan, feeding young at nest (lMB); June 27th, Cwm Griffm, family party noted (TRA).

BLACKBIRD Turdus merula. H. and R. A common resident breeding in both Counties. Jan. 31st, Holme Marsh, subdued song, and also on Oct. 30th at the same locality (AJS).

FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris. H. March 4th, SoUars Hope, 12 (FRF); March 25th, Holme Marsh, cISO (AJS); 16 at Lawton Cross on April 22nd (FWM) were the last. Pirst returning birds in autumn noted on Oct. 14th at Common Hill (KAM). Oct. 26th, Michaelchurch, eight (WOD); Nov. 1st, Milton Hill, c40 (HTR); Nov. 17th, Sink Green, c500 and c600 there on Dec. 1st (JLF); Nov. 26th, Hergest Ridge, c200 (CJP). R. Jan, 2nd, Pwll Patti, 40; Feb; 15th, The Begwns, 60 (MFP); April 3rd, Waun Marteg, c250 (CJP); April 10th, Llanbedr, 250t migrating north (CO); April 11 th, Moelienydd, 200t (FWM). Autumn birds first noted on Oct. 15th at Pont-ar-Elan (MFP). Oct. 30th, Beili-Bedw Pool, 50 (HTR); Nov. 20th, max. lIS at Crungoed, near Llangunllo and lOOt at Penybont on the same date; Dec. 21st, Caban Coch area, 19 (MFP). Autumn numbers down on 1981. Ed. 94 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

SONG :rHRUSH Turdus phiiomelos. H. and R. Resident and breeding in both Counties but nowhere is it common. A flock of 11 seen at Builth on Sept. 11 th after heavy rain (MFP).

REDWING Turdus iliacus. H. March 4th, Fownhope, 15 (FRF);March 16th, Lyonshall, 12 and a single there on March 30th was the last (AJS). Autumn birds first noted on night of Oct. 8/9th when over-night passage noted at Holme Marsh (AJS). Oct. 9th, Doward, c30 (WOD); Oct. 24th, Holme Marsh, heavy passage noted (AJS); Nov. 17th, Sink Green, c250 (JLF); Nov. 20th, Holme Marsh, c60 (AJS); Nov. 26th, Hergest Ridge, 60 (CJP); Dec. 1st, Sink Green, c300 (JLF); Dec. 25th, Llanwame, 25 (PJK). R. Jan. 2nd, Pwll Patti, 15; Feb, 15th, The Begwns, 15 (MFP);March 2nd, Radnor Forest, c40 (AJS); March 7th, New Radnor, migrating flock of cl00 (MFP). The last departure was on April 8th atBuilth. Autumn birds began to arrive on Oct. 8/9th with c400 at Discoed on the 9th (CJP). Oct. 20th, Llandrindod, max. 100; Nov. 20th, Crun­ goed, 75; Nov. 25th, Newbridge Bog, max. 100; Dec. 4th, Abbey­ cwmhir. 26 (MFP).

MISTLE THRUSH Turdus viscivorus H. and R. Resident and breeding in both Counties. Jan. 21st, Here­ ford, song (AJS) and also at Sollars Hope on the same date (FRF). The larger counts were: Sept. 10th, Penmincae, 14 (MFP); Sept. 11th, Sink Green, c50 (JLF).

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia. H. April 27th, Badnage Wood, one and one at Credenhill on April 28th (BMK); May 2nd, Wigmore, one (FWM); May 22nd, Stansbatch, song (JMB); June, Common Hill, Fownhope, song for a few days early in the month (KAM). TRHO reports 'Only two singing at Mad1ey where eight or nine noted in 1981'. R. Aug. 2nd, Llyn Hilyn, one (MFP).

SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus. H. May 3rd, lJucton, two (FWM/AM); May 14th, Tillington, two (BMK); May 26th, Letton, song (JMB). None located at Byton Bog in special search (TRA). R. May 18th, Newbridge Bog, song (MFP) and two seen there on May 30th (DWL); Aug. 17th, Glasbury, two and one there on Sept. 11th (MFP). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 95

REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus. H. Shobdon, TRA reports 'Birds arrived on May 1st and. had a successful breeding season despite the reeds having been flattened by the severe winter weather'. Aug. 28th, Sink Green, one in Osier salix viminalis (JLF).

LESSER WHITETIlROAT Sylvia curruca. H. A male at Aymestrey on April 22nd (FWM) was the first. Record7d throughout May from Brinsop, Broadmoor Common, Cre~enh~l, Dinedor, Hampton Bishop, Holme Marsh, Manse1 Lacy,. Swamshill, Titley and Upper Welson. June 17th, Stansbatch, contmuous so'!'g (JMB); Hampton Bishop one on July 15th, one on Aug. 12th and SIX there on Aug. 28th (JLF). R. First arrivals were three singing males at Pwll Patti on May 5th (M FP) and three at G1asbury (DWL) on the same date. May 2~rd, Llane1wedd, pair with nest (MFP). The last was a male at Builth Quarry on Sept. 6th (MFP).

WHITETIlROAT Sylvia communis. H. The flrst was at Llanwame on April 11th (PJK) with the main arrival occurring from April 27th to mid-May. Reported from all parts of the County and the indications are that the recovery of this species has been maintained. The last were five at Hampton Bishop on Aug. 28th (JLF). R. The first was at Pwll Patti on May 3rd and MFP reports 'Numbers at or slightly below 1981 level'. May 10th, Rhayader, two (DWL); July 21st, Moelienydd, family party noted (JLF). The last was a female at G1asbury on Aug. 17th (MFP).

GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia borin. H. May 2nd, Samesfield, song (AJS); May 5th, Hampton Bishop, one; May 20th, Broadmoor Common, two; Aug. 28th, Hampton Bishop, one (JLF). R. The first was at Newbridge on April 28th and MFP reports 'Num­ bers normal in areas visited'. May 9th, Cefndyrys, three in song (CO). Late July-Aug. 6th, main autumn passage (MFP). 96 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

BLACKCAP Sylvia atricapilla. H. Jan - early April, over-wintering birds noted at Hereford, Kington and Yarpole. First spring migrants arrived mid-April and were widely distributed throughout the County during the breeding season. Return passage noted during August. Nov.-Dec., reports, mostly of single birds from Aymestrey, Common Hill, Hampton Bishop, Hereford, Kington, Ledbury and Much Marcle. R. First seen on April 26th at Newbridge (MFP). May 9th, Cefndyrys, five in song (CO); Aug. 14th, Builth Quarry, max. 12 (Main autumn passage mid-Aug. - early Sept.); Sept. 11th, Glasbury, five; Sept. 13th, Builth, two (MFP).

WOOD WARBLERPhylloscopus sibilatrix. H. April 14th, Nupend, song (CWW); April 24th, Lyepole/Aymestrey, five (FWM); April 28th, Mansel Lacy, six in song; May 6th, Fownhope, three (JLF) and in song at How Caple on the same date (AJS); June 6th, Haugh Wood, one (MFP). R. The frrst was at Llandrindod on April 22nd and MFP reports 'No apparent change in status and I~st departures noted late July'.

CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita. H. and R. Distribution and numbers normal throughout both Counties. The first was at Easthampton on March 2nd (TRA) with the main arrival occurring on March 24th. From Holme Marsh AJS reports 'Autumn remarkable for almost total lack of visible warbler passage. Chiffchaffs and other warblers normally regular and very evident as passage birds. Not so in 1982'. From Radnorshire MFP reports 'Main autumn passage noted early - mid-8ept', There are two records of over-wintering birds as follows: Nov. 29th, Mordiford, one (JVF); Dec. 26th, Hoarwithy, one (WOD).

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus. H. and R. Very common throughout both Counties. The first was at Castleton on April 4th (AJS) with a major "fall" occurring on April 15th. Main autumn passage occurred during late August and the last were four at Builth on Sept. 6th (MFP).

GOLDCREST Regulus regulus. H. and R. The records indicate that this species was less severely affec­ ted by the hard winter of 1981/82 than had been expected and a good breeding season in 1982 has helped to restore numbers almost back to normal. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 97

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata. H. First seen on May 10th, at Easthampton (TRA) and Titley (RLV). Recorded from Bridstow, Brilley, Hereford, Hole-in-the-Wall, Holme Marsh, Llanwame, Luston, Perrystone, Tretire and Welsh Newton with breeding noted at many of these locations. The last were seen at Castleton on Sept. 12th (AM). R. MFP reports 'First seen on May 13th at Penn-ddol Rocks, near Builth and good numbers noted in normal widespread locations', The last was one at Llandrindod on Sept. 1st (MFP).

PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula hypoleuca. H. One at Eywood on April 17th (RLV) was the first. April 21 st, Mansel Lacy, a male (JLF); April 28th, Moccas, eight, mostly males (AM); April 24th, Lyepole/Aymestrey, three in song (CO). R. April 18th, Llanbedr, a male (AJS); April 26th, Newbridge Bog, noted. May 9th, Cefndyrys, two males (CO); May 17th, Elan, three (DWL). Last noted at Penybont on Aug. 2nd (MFP). See also Nest-box Scheme report.

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalos caudatus. H. Jan 7th, Lyonshall, ten (JMB); Jan. 15th,Welsh Newton, 'not so many as usual' (FMP); April 3rd, Shirley, pair by Lugg (WL-S); May 1st, Checkley, one; May 3rd, Lyepole, two (JLF); June 13th, Shirley, family party seen (TRA); Aug. 13th, Welsh Newton area, nine (per FMP); Oct. 24th, Easthampton, 20 (TRA); Oct. 31 st, Llanwame, six (PJK). R. MFP reports 'Appears to have survived the severe winter extremely well'. Jan/March, a total of 34 seen in six localities (MFP); April 23rd, Newbridge, two (DWL); July 21st, New Radnor, 12 (JLF); July, family parties seen at five localities (MFP); Oct. 30th, Llynpentre Bank, small party noted (AJS); Oct/Dec., a total of 64 seen from eight areas with max. 14 at Rhayader on Dec. 12th ;md 14 at Erwood on Dec. 29th (MFP).

MARSH TIT Parus palustris. H. Jan. 24th, Sollars Hope, pair (FRF); Jan. - April, Brilley, regularly seen (WL-S); April 9th, Capler, eight (AM); May 3rd, Lyepole, pair; Oct. 28th, Lingen, two (JLF); Nov. 2nd, Burfa Wood, two (HTR); Nov. 29th, Holme Lacy area, three (JLF); Dec. Brilley, two (WL-S). R. Jan/March, a total of 11 in six localities since the freeze (MFP); Oct. 30th, Llynpentre Bank, two (AJS); Oct./Dec., 28 noted at 12 localities (MFP).

1 98 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

WILLOW TIT Parus montanus. H. June 17th, Holme Marsh, one in song (AJS); June 26th, Haugh Wood, family party seen (MFP); Sug. 26th, Dinedor, one; Sept. 3rd, Holme Lacy, two (JLF); Dec. 1st, Hampton Bishop, two (JVF). R. Feb. 9th, Newbridge Bog, two, Llanyre, two and Penmincae, four (MFP); July 21st, New Radnor, one (JLF). Young birds seen at Builth, Erwood, Glasbury, Moelienydd, Newbridge, Pencerrig, Pwll Patti, Rhulen and Rhydfelin. Oct/Dec., 17 noted from eight localities with max. 4 at Abbeycwmhir (MFP).

COAL TIT Parus ater. H. and R. Still present in usual numbers in spite of the severe winter. Jan./March, a total of 14 in five localities in Radnorshire since the freeze, and Oct./Dec., 31 noted from ten localities (MFP).

BLUE TIT Parus caeruleus. H. and R. The 1981/82 winter proved fatal for many Blue Tits and this was reflected in the greatly reauced numbers- of pairs breeding. For a more detailed report on the effects of the winter on the breeding status of Blue and Great Tits and some other species see Nest Box Scheme Report.

GREAT TIT Parus major. H. and R. Suffered badly during the severe winter and as a result the breeding population was drastically reduced. However, this species has suffered similar setbacks in the past and has always recovered well and no doubt will do so again. Ed.

NUTHATCH Sitta europaea. H. Records come from Brilley (WL-S), Eyton (GAB), Hentland (WOD), Lyonshall (KR), Moccas (AM) and Sollars Hope (FRF). R. Late Jan. - March, 21 noted in eight localities (MFP); May 9th, Cefndyrys, nesting noted (CO); Oct./Dec., present in good numbers with a total of 43 noted from 18 localities with max. 6 at Abbey­ cwmhir on Dec. 4th and 4 near Rhayader on Dec. 29th (MFP).

TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris. H. and R. Survived the winter remarkably well and numerous records have been received throughout the year from both Counties. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 99

GREAT GREY SHRIKE Larus excubitor. H. Feb. 14th, Criftin Ford, one (FWM) which remained for several days. R. Nov. 22nd, Gladestry, one well viewed (RDG); Dec. 4th, Llan­ badarn Fynydd, one beside River Ithon (MFP).

JAY Ga"ulus glandarius. H. and R. Remains fairly common in both Counties. Jan.{March, a total of 32 noted at eight localities in Radnorshire with max. 7 to roost at Penmincae on Feb. 10th (MFP). Oct/Dec., scarcer than usual with only eight recorded from five sites in Radnorshire (MFP).

MAGPIE Pica pica. H. and R. Numbers have continued to increase throughout both Coun­ ties. Some large gatherings noted as follows: Feb. Rhosgoch roost, 150 (MFP); Sept. 25th, Fownhope, 23 (KAM); Nov. 20th, St. Michael's Pool, 54 to roost; Dec. 8th, Abbeycwmhir. 45 to roost (MFP).

JACKDAW Corvus monedula. H. and R .. A common resident in both Counties and breeding. Nov. 20th, St. Michael's Pool, max. 250 to roost (MFP); Dec. 26th, Canon Pyon, c200 (IBE).

ROOK Corvus jrugilegus. H. and R. A common resident in both Counties with little change in present population. 'Many deaths among young birds noted during May due to the dry weather conditions' (TRA). Nov. 20th, St. Mich­ ael's Pool, max. 200 to roost (MFP); Dec. 26th, Canon Pyon, cl00 (IBE).

CARRION CROW Corvus corone. H. and R. A widespread pest. Nov. 20th, St. Michael's Pool, 200t to roost (MFP).

RAYEN Corvus corax. H. and R. The majority of the records come from the west of Here­ fordshire and from Radnorshire with breeding recorded from at least seven localities. The larger gatherings were: March 7th, Black Mixen, 11 (FWM); April 4th, Llanbedr, five (AM/FWM); May 21st, Moelien­ ydd, seven (JLF); Aug. 9th, Clyro, 12 flying south (RM); Aug. 28th, Glascwm, eight (MFP); Sept. 1st, Swinmoor, five (THRO); Nov. 20th, 31 displaying together at Elan (SW/AlP); Oct.-Dec., a total of 42 from six localities with max. 12 at Moelienydd on Nov. 20th and ten at Abbeycwmhir on Dec. 4th (MFP). 100 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982

STARLING Sturnus vulgaris. H. and R. Common throughout both Counties with numbers increased by continental birds during winter months. Nov. 20th, St. Michael's Pool, clOOO to roost (MFP); Dec. 25th, Aconbury, c20,000 to roost (IBE).

HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus. H. and R. A very common resident throughout both Counties.

TREE SPARROW Passer montanus. H. Jan. 8th, Llanwame, one (PJK); Jan. 13th, Sollars Hope, six at bird-table (FRF); Jan 31st, Llanwame, 20+ (PJK); Feb. 7th, Shobdon, 40 (TRA); Aug. 28th, Llanwame, five in area (PJK). Breeding noted at Brilley (WL-8) and Holme Marsh (AJS). R. Jan. 22nd, Llandrindod, two; Jan. 25th, Nantmel, one; Jan. 30th, Dolau, ten and six at Brynthomas; Feb. 15th, Glasbury, ten and six at Rhosgoch; Aug. 2nd, Ilandewi, 12; Glasbury, 20+ on Aug. 17th and 25 on Oct. 9th when 40 also seen at Four Stones; Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, 14; Nov. 26th, Llandrindod, seven; Dec. 21st, Rhayader, five (MFP).

CHAFFINCH Fringilla coeleba. H. and R. The commonest f"mch, breeding in both Counties. Numbers much increased during winter months by continental birds. MFP recorded some large flocks in Radnorshire as follows: Jan, 2nd, Glas­ bury, clOO; Jan. 30th, Dolau, clOO; Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, 80; Dec. 4th, Marteg, 100+ and ~O at Abbeycwmhir on the same date.

BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla. H. Present Jan. -mid-April in small numbers only, with several records of birds visiting bird-tables to feed during the severe weather. The last were four males· and three females at Mere Hill on April 17th (FWM/ AM). The only record during the autumn was of two birds at Kington on Nov. 15th (CJP). R. During the period Jan. - April the only large gatherings were noted at Rhosgoch with 12 there on Feb. 15th (MFP) and 23 on April 4th (FWM). The only autumn records were of single birds at Llangunllo and Moelienydd on Nov. 20th and at Llandrindod on Nov. 23rd (MFP). HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 101

GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris. H. and R. Common and breeding in both Counties. The larger gather­ ings were: Jan. 2nd, G1asbury, 60; Feb. 5th, Disserth, 11; Feb. 15th, Rhosgoch, ten (MFP); Feb. 21st, Criftin Ford, lOOt (FWM); Sept. 17th, Llandrindod, 50t and max. 100 there on Oct. 12th (MFP); Oct. 18th, Hampton Bishop, 40 (JLF); Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, 40 and 70 at Llangunllo on the same date; Nov. 26th, Llandrindod, 40 (MFP).

GOLDFINCH Carduelis carduelis. H. and R. Common and breeding in both Counties. The larger gather­ ings were; Aug. 26th, Hampton Bishop, 46; Aug. 31st, Llan Bwch-Llyn, 22 (JLF); Sept. 3rd, Builth, 20; Sept. 11th, Glasbury, 80t and 50 there on Oct. 9th when 30 also seen at Llyn Hilyn; Dec. 29th, Erwood, 14 (MFP).

SISKIN Carduelis spinus. H. Jan. 2nd, Llanwame, 30 in Common Alder Alnus glutinosa (PJK); Jan. 17th, Aymestrey, 30t (FWM) and c60 at Holme Marsh on the same date (AJS); Jan, 28th, Hampton Bishop, c90 in Alders (JLF); Feb. 7th, ·Castleton, 12 (AJS); March 15th, Llanwame, 20 (PJK); Nov. 2nd, Wapley Hill, 50 (HTR). R. Jan. 2nd, Glasbury, seven; Jan. 27th, Cefnllys, 16; Jan. 30th, Dolau, two; March 17th, Builth, a single male; Dec. 1st, Cefnllys, 30t in Alders; Dec. 29th, Erwood, 17 (MFP).

LINNET Carduelis cannabina. H. and R. Some larger flocks were noted as follows: Jan. 3rd, Holme Marsh, 41 flying west (AJS); Feb. 7th, ShoMon, 30 (TRA); Aug. 26th, Penybont, 35; Sept. 2nd, Llandrindod, 6Ot; Sept. 9th, Rhogo, 3Ot; Sept. 11 th, Glasbury, 40; Sept. 22nd, Builth, 60; Oct. 9th, Four Stones, 40; Nov. 20th, Moelienydd, 20 (MFP), but numbers appear to be down. Ed.

REDPOLL Carduelis flammea. H. Feb. 23rd, Criftin Ford, five (FWM); March 8th, Common Hill, large flock noted (CWW); April 12th, Llanwame, one (pJK); April 19th, Holme Marsh, one and noted there on Oct. 23rd and Nov. 20th (AJS). R. Widespread in small numbers as a breeder with records from Abbey­ cwmhir (max. 17 on Dec. 4th); Caban Coch (max. 25 on Dec. 21st), Cefnllys, Erwood, Glasbury, Penybont, Rhayader and Rhosgoch (MFP). 102 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 CROSSBILL Loxia curvirostra. H. Jan. 31st, Bringewood Chase, a male; April 4th, Yatton Hill, four; April 12th, Mere Hill, three and two there on April 17th (FWM et al); Sept. 18th - end of year, Wap1ey, small parties regularly seen feeding on Lawson Cypress Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (RLV et al); Nov. 13th, Holme Marsh, single heading SSE (AJS); Dec. 28th, Ridge Hill, four in flight (KAM). R. Dec. 4th, Abbeycwmhir, heard calling (MFP).

BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula H. Records come from Brilley, Llanwarne, Luston, Rattle Hill and Sollars Hope. R. MFP reports 'Decimated by severe winter and numbers remained at a very low ebb throughout the year'.

HAWFINCH Coccothraustes coccothraustes. H. March 18th - May, Copelands, Holmer, flock of six frequented garqen and Hornbeams Carpinus betulus, but no proof of breeding (CWW); April 10th, Haugh Wood, at least three including one male (PGB's); June 12th, Mortimer Forest, female feeding single young (CO) ; July 11th, Michaelchurch, a female and two young in Yew Taxus baccata in churchyard (WOD). R. June 9th, Elan, three (DWL).

YELWWHAMMER Emberiza citrinella H. and R. A common resident, breeding in both Counties. At Holme Marsh AJS reports 'Local roost disappeared during the hard weather but the breeding season was satisfactory and winter roost largely recovered', The larger gatherings were: Jan. 10th, Sandi­ acre, 26 (FWM); Feb. 15th, G1asbury, 20 (MFP); Feb. 25th, Linton, near Ross-on-Wye, 15 (FRF); Oct. 9th, G1asbury, 30 (MFP).

REED BUNTING Emberiza schoeniclus. H. Jan. 16th, Franchise Stone Wye, noted (BEM); Feb. 7th, Shobdon Sewage Works, 20 (TRA); March 25th, Hereford, three on lawn at Tups1ey (IBE); April 4th, Cast1eton, song (AJS); May 3rd, Bucton, two males and six there on May 30th (FWM); June 9th, Foy, pair noted (FRF); July, breeding noted at Brilley (WL-8). R. Singles noted at G1asbury on Jan. 2nd, Crossgates on Jan. 28th and two at Newbridge on Feb. 9th (MFP); May 21st, Moelienydd, a male (JLF); Aug. 2nd Beili-Bedw, a male; Aug. 25th, Llyn Hilyn, a juvenile; Nov. 25th, Newbridge Bog, 12 to roost (MFP).

CORN BUNTING Milaria calandria. H. The smal11oca1 breeding colony still exists. HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL REPORT 1982 103

CONTRIBUTORS TO CLASSIFIED NOTES T.R. Ammonds Miss W. Lindsay-Scott Mrs. M. Bentley-Taylor A. Marchant Mrs. G.A. Bottoms F.W. Marston Mr. & Mrs. P.G. Bradley K.A.Mason Mrs. J.M. Bromley W.H. Meadham, B. Coombes Dr. RE. Miles *J. Cooter R. MoTley Miss W.O. Davies T.R.H.Owen LB. Evans C.J. Parry Mrs. M. Evershed M.F. Peers G. Ewert Mr. & Mrs. J. Potts J.L. Fox *A.J. Prater Mrs. J.V. Fox F.M. Probyn Mrs. F.R. Francis H.T. Randolph D.A. Grant Miss K. Rist *R.D. Greig D. Small R. Hall A.J. Smith C.D.N. Johnson A.A. Stewart Miss S. Jones R.L. Vernon Mrs. P.J. Kent Dr. C.W. Walker B. Kiddle M.P. Watkins D.W. Lewis Miss S.M. Woodman * Denotes Non-Member

REPORT EXCHANGES Trent Valley Birdwatchers. Bristol Natural History Society. Gloucester Naturalists' Society. West Wales Naturalists' Trust. Wiltshire Ornithological Society. Shropshire Ornithological Society.

ASSOCIATIONS TO WHICH THE CLUB IS AFFILIATED Herefordshire and Radnorshire Nature Trust. British Trust for Ornithology. Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Woolhope Club. West Midlands Bird Club. Council for Nature. British Naturalists' Association. 104 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR ENDED 30th NOVEMBER, 1982 1981 1982 Income 10 Sale ofPublications 10 32 Donations 36 169 Building Society Interest 190 1,139 Subscriptions 1,113 1,350 1,349 Deduct Expenditure: 134 Printing & Stationery 128 369 Annual Report 495 213 Postage & Telephone 232 84 Meeting Expenses 184 38 Affiliation Subscriptions 32 10 Cost of Publications 10 17 Insurances 17 21 Corporation Tax on Building Society Interest 24 Cost of New Projector 277 10 Donation: Wildfowl Trust 16 Presentation to T.R-:H. Owen (net) 14 896 1,429 454 Surplus (Deficit) for the year (80) 656 Surplus at 1st December 1981 1,110 1,110 General Funds at 30th November 1982 1,030 1,200 Add: Special Fund 1,200 £2,310 Accumulated Funds at 30th November 1982 £2,230 Accumulated Funds at 30th November 1982 represented by: 2,040 Deposit with Abbey National Building Society 2,130 160 Cash at Bank, less 1983 subscriptions received in advance 110 Stock of Publications, at cost 100 £2,310 £2,230 LT. STONE, Hon. Treasurer. I have audited the above accounts and in my opinion they show a true and fair view of the Deficit for the year ended 30th November 1982 and of the Club's assets at 30th November, 1982. T. Davies, 31st December 1982 Chartered Accountant.