West Midland Bird Club Km^ Annual Report No 52 1985 Sparrowhawk by R J C Blewitt West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No 52 1985

Being the Annual Bird Report of the West Midland Bird Club on the birds in the counties of Warwickshire, , Staffordshire and .

Contents

2 Officers and Committee

3 Recorder's Report

3 Birds in 1985

8 Treasurer's Report and Financial Statement

11 Secretary's Report

11 Field Meetings Secretary's Report

12 Research Committee

12 Staffordshire Branch Report

13 Ladywalk Reserve

16 North Staffordshire Moors Survey

28 1985 Bird Record Localities

31 Classified Notes

119 Ringing in 1985

126 Key to Contributors

127 Species requiring descriptions

Price £2.50 2

Officers and Committee 1986

President C A Norris, Brookend House, Welland, Worcestershire Vice-President G C Lambourne, Melin Dan-y-rhiw, St. Davids, Dyfed Chairman A J Richards, 1 Lansdowne Road, Studley, Warwickshire B80 7JG Deputy Chairman G M Lewis, 9a Plymouth Road, Barnt Green, B45 8JE Secretary A I Whatley, 8 Bowstoke Road, Great Barr, Birmingham B43 5EA Treasurer K A Webb, 8 Vernon Close, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B74 4EA Recorder and G R Harrison, "Bryher", Hatton Green, Hatton, Research Warwickshire CV35 7LA Committee Chairman Membership D S Evans, 49 Inglewood Grove, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield Secretary B74 3LN Field Meetings S H Young, 32 Carless Avenue, Harborne, Secretary Birmingham B17 9EL Permit Secretary Miss M Surman, 6 Lloyd Square, 12 Niall Close, Birmingham B15 3LX Ringing Secretary A E Coleman, 67 Park Lane, Bonehill, Jamworth, Staffordshire Bulletin Editor P K Dedicoat, 2 The Elms Paddock, Pattingham, WV6 7DW Staffs Branch D W Emley, 127 Harpfields Road, Stoke-on-Trent Chairman Solihull Branch M Hewitt, 33 Hurdis Road, Shirley, Solihull, Chairman West Midlands Main Committee N Barlow, S C Brown, Mrs D Dunstan, T E Giles, H McGregor and R M Normand Records Committee G R Harrison (Chairman), A R Dean, D W Emley, G Evans, S K Welch and S M Whitehouse 3

Recorder's Report I must begin by apologising for the extremely late publication of this Report. When I was asked to become editor twelve years ago, I was acutely aware that the WMBC's Annual Report was very highly regarded and I felt very privileged lo be entrusted with its production. I have always tried to maintain this reputation, but in recent years I have found it increasingly difficult to achieve the standard that the WMBC deserves and which I myself would wish. One has only to look at the increase in Addenda and Corrigenda to understand what I mean. Moreover the task has grown to the point where I can no longer establish direct personal contact with birdwatchers. As a result I feel I no longer have their confidence and I know that many valuable records are being withheld for various reasons. The paucity of Warwickshire records demonstrates this only too well. I have therefore decided that it is time to stand down as Recorder. In doing so, I should like to thank the WMBC for the opportunity given to me, and all those who have helped me in so many ways. In particular, I would thank all those who have contributed records — over two-hundred of you every year. Without your co-operation there would indeed have been no reports. My thanks this year are due especially to Dave Emley, Graham Evans, Steve Welch and Steve Whitehouse for their help in compiling the Report, and to Alan Dean, Maurice Eccleshall, Roger Hancox and Brett Westwood for their illustrations. As members now know, the WMBC has decided to appoint separate recorders for each county to spread the workload and hopefully foster better relations with birdwatchers active in the field. I have every confidence that Nick Barlow as overall co-ordinator, together with Graham Evans, Steve Haynes, Bob Normand and Steve Whitehouse as recorders, will do an excellent job. But I know only too well the enormity of their task and that they will need all the support they can get. I hope that support will be forthcoming, particularly through the proper submission of records. G R Harrison Birds in 1985 Meteorologically this was a year that is best forgotten. Winter had several cold snaps, spring was cold and wet and summer never arrived. Not until the autumn was there any settled, warm weather and even this turned into a cold, stormy last two months of the year. If the weather was poor, the birds certainly made up for it, and with 222 species including four — American Wigeon, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Wilson's Phalarope and Laughing Gull — that were new to the region this was perhaps the best year ever. It began quietly enough, with a Red-breasted Merganser from 1984 and a Firecrest on New Year's Day. A Peregrine on the fifth preceded an influx of cold, Siberian air which moved in from the Baltic on the sixth. With the cold air came a small movement of Bewick's Swans. A more severe cold spell, with temperatures as low as —15°C, began on the twelfth and lasted about a week. 4

This brought exceptional numbers of Wigeon from the Continent, which was experiencing some of the coldest weather this century. Also arriving with it were a Woodlark on the fourteenth, followed next day by large skeins of Pink- footed and White-fronted Geese and the region's first ever Laughing Gull. Over the next few days two Red-throated Divers, three Red-necked Grebes, Slavonian Grebe and three Red-breasted Mergansers also appeared. During mild, westerly weather in the last week of January over 20 Smew were discovered as were two Black-necked Grebes on the twenty-ninth — all doubtless refugees from the frozen Continent. January also saw a record flock of 680 Ruddy Ducks, a Mediterranean Gull on the nineteenth and a Scatter of Iceland and Glaucous Gulls. The mild, dull weather persisted for the first week of February, during which time a few Whooper Swans arrived, a Black-throated Diver appeared on the third and another Mediterranean Gull was seen on the sixth. A second cold spell then began with heavy snow and biting easterly winds on the eighth and ninth. Again this forced birds to leave the Continent and further Smews and Red-breasted Mergansers, two more Red-throated Divers, two Black-throated Divers and three more Red-necked Grebes arrived. February also saw the herd of Bewick's Swans in the Avon Valley top 150 and brought four Peregrines and incredibly another Firecrest on the twenty-second, which somehow had survived the freezing weather.

Mild, unsettled weather in early March produced no significant movement. However, a record flock of 110 Pintail and a Mealy Redpoll were seen on the third and a few more Iceland Gulls appeared around the eighth. From mid- month migration was inhibited firstly by a cold, northerly airstream and then by easterly winds pulled in by high pressure to the west. Undeterred, Curlew returned to their breeding territories and the now-customary large roosts again formed in the foothills of north Staffordshire. A Brent Goose was seen on the thirteenth and a Slavonian Grebe on the seventeenth. Warmer weather returned on the twenty-second, as the winds swung westerly and then southerly, bringing with them a Marsh Harrier on the twenty-fifth, the first Wheatear the next day and the first Swallow and Ring Ouzel on the thirty-first. Iceland Gulls were again in evidence on the twenty-eighth and ninth, with the latter also producing a Black-necked Grebe and the year's only report of Great Grey Shrike. The first week of April was unsettled, but nonetheless yielded the first real influx of Chiffchaffs, Willow Warblers, Yellow Wagtails and hirundines as well as two Ravens on the fifth. An anticyclone then settled in to the north- west, bringing cooler winds which again slowed down migration. On the sixteenth the high pressure moved south across the country bringing a couple of warm days, but the cold winds from the Arctic soon returned to persist until the twenty-eighth. There was a small passage of Common Scoter between the seventh and twelfth, a Peregrine appeared on the eighth. White Wagtails began to arrive from the tenth and a Black Redstart was seen on the twelfth. A Velvet Scoter on the twentieth was an unusual visitor to follow a warm spell, but a Marsh Harrier the next day was more typical. Although most summer visitors arrived more or less punctually, numbers were small. The first major movement 5 began on the twenty-seventh, when there was a noticeable passage of Dunlin, and continued with several Kittiwakes over the next three days, three Dotterel on the twenty-eighth and a Little Tern on the thirtieth. High pressure persisted to the west until May 11, pulling down cool winds and delaying summer visitors. An Osprey passed through on the second, a small movement of Arctic Terns occurred between the third and fifth, a Marsh Harrier was seen on the fourth and a Shag on the seventh. By the eleventh the anticyclone was to the north, creating unsettled conditions over the North Sea and easterly winds to drift migrants away from the Continent. On the same day a party of 28 Whimbrel and a Savi's Warbler arrived, to be followed by another Osprey on the twelfth, a passage of Black Terns between the thirteenth and seventeenth, a Bluethroat on the fourteenth and a Black Redstart the next day. Other arrivals were the first Quail on the nineteenth, a Little Egret on the twentieth and a small passage of Sanderlings on the twenty-first. The anticyclone then declined and cool, unsettled weather set in again until the twenty-seventh, when high pressure formed once more to bring a brief spell of hot, sunny weather that lasted for a few days into June. With it came a Red- necked Phalarope on the thirty-first, a Broad-billed Sandpiper — another first for the region — on the first and a Black Stork for the second time in three years on the second. Another Osprey was also seen on the second. Hopes of summer were quickly dashed, however, as cloudy, wet and cool weather returned on the sixth.

Little Terns were noted on the ninth and fourteenth, an Arctic Skua passed through on the eleventh. Raven on the thirteenth and another Quail was heard the next day. Yet another first for the region came on the fifteenth, this time an American Wigeon. Two Black-necked Grebes were seen on the nineteenth, while the twenty-fifth saw the start of what was to become a moderate irruption of Crossbills. A few more Common Scoter passed through on the thirtieth, when another Quail was heard.

The wet, cool spring and summer reduced the number of insects available for fledglings and the breeding season was generally poor, with the early return of species such as Swift suggesting that many pairs did not breed. Broods of wildfowl and passerines were also much smaller than usual. Raptors fared reasonably well, however, with Goshawk, Buzzard, Merlin and Hobby all breeding successfully, though the latter was less numerous than usual. Sand Martins remained scarce, though, while a thorough survey of the Moors revealed some unexpected surprises but failed to show any improvement in the precarious position of the Black Grouse. Oystercatchers again failed to breed successfully and there was an alarming crash in the Marsh Warbler population. Quail calling during five days of warm, settled weather early in July again promised summer, but cool unsettled weather soon returned to persist until the end of August. A Peregrine appeared on the fourth, but July was otherwise quiet, with the wet weather keeping water levels too high for waders at most places. At the end of the month the first Siskin arrived from the Continent in 6

what was to become a major irruption during August and September. A Fulmar on the twentieth and a Purple Sandpiper on the twenty-eighth were unseasonal finds, but Ospreys on the twenty-first and twenty-fourth were more usual. The series of depressions continued through August, bringing rain on most days. The early part of the month was uneventful, apart from Little Tern on the eleventh and Black-necked Grebe the next day, but the second half was much more interesting. Over 50 Black Terns moved through between the fourteenth and sixteenth, and a Marsh Harrier on the seventeenth was followed the next day by small passages of Whimbrel and Ruff — the latter noteworthy in an otherwise poor year. Another Little Tern was also seen on the eighteenth, with Marsh Harrier again the next day, while Manx Shearwater and Wryneck on the twenty-third were followed the next day by Spotted Crake. Gales late in the month brought a second Manx Shearwater on the twenty-ninth and an excellent passage of Common and Black Terns together with three Little Terns on the thirtieth. Westerly gales continued into early September, bringing Arctic Skuas on the first and third and two more Manx Shearwaters on the third and sixth. Migrant raptors included Peregrine on the first and Osprey on the second. Further westerly gales on the fourteenth and fifteenth then brought the region's fourth new bird of the year — a Wilson's Phalarope — on the fourteenth. Little Tern on the fifteenth, two more Manx Shearwaters, and a Leach's Petrel on the twentieth. A few Common Scoter passed through between the nineteenth and twenty-eighth, two more Peregrines arrived, and parties of 27 Knot on the sixteenth and 20 Bar-tailed Godwits on the eighteenth were among the more significant wader movements. The third week also brought good numbers of Curlew Sandpiper and an influx of Little Stints on the twenty-third. Another Spotted Crake was seen on the twenty-second and the month closed with Raven on the twenty-eighth. Warm, settled weather during the second half of September was replaced by unsettled conditions for the first twelve days of October, during which westerly winds produced little of interest other than a Grey Phalarope on the tenth. Fine, settled weather then returned for the next nine days, during which the last summer visitors departed and Redwings and Fieldfares began to arrive. Of more interest were Black Redstart on the twelfth, a further passage of Common Scoter between the fifteenth and twentieth, Red- breasted Mergansers on the nineteenth and twenty-fifth, Temminck's Stints on the nineteenth and twenty-third, and Slavonian Grebe, Brent Goose and three Bearded Tits on the twentieth. Easterly winds from the twenty-first produced Gannet the next day. Hen Harrier on the twenty-third and the start of a Short- eared Owl influx on the twenty-sixth. A cold, northerly airstream then brought two Whooper Swans on the twenty-eighth.

This airstream continued into November, when gales in the North Sea on the second brought a large movement of Pomarine Skuas. Several were driven inland and one reached the West Midlands. The same storm also brought a Grey Phalarope the next day, while Hen Harrier and Bearded Tit also appeared on the second. Westerly depressions then became dominant, but on the tenth 7

pressure to the west rose once again, bringing another blast of cold, Arctic air and an even bigger displacement of birds. Common Scoters moved through between the ninth and sixteenth and with them on the ninth was a Velvet Scoter. The next day saw Long-tailed Duck, two more Pomarine Skuas and three Arctic Skuas, whilst the eleventh brought three Whooper Swans and a flock of 27 Kittiwakes. Five Snow Buntings on the twelfth may also have been storm driven, but where did a Red Kite on the tenth and a Hoopoe on the twelfth come from? During cold, but settled weather in mid-month parties of Barnacle Geese arrived on the thirteenth and sixteenth, two Brent Geese appeared on the eighteenth and a party of nine Grey Plovers was seen on the sixteenth. Another flock of Kittiwakes, this time 26, on the sixteenth and a Pomarine Skua on the eighteenth were doubtless victims of the previous week's storm. From the twenty-fourth cold, northerly winds set in again, bringing another Brent Goose and four Velvet Scoter on the twenty-third, a skein of 140 Pink-footed Geese on the twenty-fourth, yet another Velvet Scoter and a Hen Harrier on the twenty-fifth, and a further Snow Bunting on the twenty-seventh. Then, as milder weather arrived with westerlies on the thirtieth so did the first Smew, followed next day by a party of White-fronted Geese. With mild weather persisting until Christmas, December was relatively quiet. Four Great Northern Divers arrived between the second and sixteenth, a further Long-tailed Duck and Snow Bunting were discovered on the seventh, more White-fronted Geese were seen on the thirteenth, and Peregrine and Bearded Tit were new on the seventeenth. Finally, with cold polar air again moving south from the twenty- sixth to the end of the year there was the usual influx of Glaucous and Iceland Gulls, three Red-breasted Mergansers on the twenty-seventh and more White- fronted Geese on the twenty-ninth.

G R Harrison 8

Treasurer's Report (year ending December 31, 1985)

The finances of the Club continue to remain in a reasonably healthy state, and it will be seen that there were surpluses on both the main account and on the Belvide account. There is however constant pressure on our resources and although economies have been made, it was felt by the Committee that a modest increase in subscriptions should be proposed for 1986. This was approved by the members at the Annual General Meeting, and it is hoped that it will be possible to avoid any further increases in subscriptions for two or three years. K A Webb

Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended December 31, 1985 1985 19B4 Income £ £ Subscriptions received lor 1985 7,556.00 7,548 Sale of Reports 115.42 54 Interest Received 1,300.13 754 Reservoirs (permit fees) 1,740.00 1,590 Gifts and Donations 35.50 84 Sale of Checklists 5.70 27 Conservation Fair Receipts 5.00 — Advertising Income 167.10 308 Open Day — 1,253 Commission on Sale ol Books, Calendars, etc. 14.25 61

Total Income £10,939.10 £11,679

Less Expenditure Solihull Branch 150.00 150 Indoor Meetings 775.45 442 Reports 3,410.00 3.601 Bulletins 3.217.43 3,922 Printing, Stationery and Postage 1,460.19 1,413 Reservoirs, Permit Fees and Insurance 1,233.00 1,220 Subscriptions to Associates 13.00 18 Conservation Fair Expenses — 5 Sundry Expenses 67.89 45 Open Day Expenses — 1,069

10,326.96 11,885 Surplus/(Delicit) for the Year 612.14 (206)

£10,939.10 £11,679 9

Belvide—Income and Expenditure Account for the Year ended December 31. 1985

7985 1984 Income £ £ Permits i ,730.67 1,413 Interest Received 21.08 23 Field Meetings 66.50 64 Grazing 235.62 250 Birds of Belvide 12.00 12

£2.065.87 £1.762

Less Expenditure Legal Fees — British Waterways 121.00 — Reserve Maintenance 6.18 596 Keys 172.50 — Rent 1,094.80 1,598 Car Park Rent 56.00 53 Car Stickers 78.59 —

1,529.07 2,247 Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year 536.80 (485)

£2,065.87 £1,702 10

Balance Sheet at December 31, 1985

1985 1984 General Fund Balance £ £ As at December 31, 1984 13,806.53 14.498 Add: Surplus/fDeficit) on Main Account 612.14 (206) Surplus/(Deficit) on Belvide Account 536.80 (485) Birds of West Midlands Fund 3,866.36 6,461

£18.821.83 £20,268

As at December 31, 1985 General Fund 14,abb.4/ I J.BU/ Birds of West Midlands Fund 3,866.36 6,461

£18,821.83 £20,268

Represented by: F Dale Reserve at cost 7.500.00 7,500

Current Assets National Savings Income Bond 8,000.00 Cash at Bank 11,652.59 20,234 Halifax Building Society 712.37 664 Debtor in respect of Belvide etc. 360.62 125

£28,225.58 £28,523

Less Current Liabilities Subscriptions in Advance 1,731.50 1.395 Permit Fees in Advance 1,650.01 1,316 Creditors in respect of Annual Report etc. 6,022.24 5,544

9.403.75 8,255

Total Net Assets £18,821.83 £20,268

We have examined the above Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Accounts. In our opinion these accounts give a true and fair view of the state of the Club's affairs at December 31. 1985 and of the excess of expenditure over income for the year ended on that date.

C L Dain & Co. Chartered Accountants St. Johns Court, Wiltell Road. Lichfield K A Webb 1986 Hon Treasurer 11

Secretary's Report Indoor Meetings — Birmingham Meetings held in thr> Birmingham and Midland Institute during the year were as follows:- January Mike Wilkes 'Kenya Hevisited'. February Gordon Langsbury 'Bird Islands of Britain'. March Annual General Meeting. April Stephen Baillie 'Bird Ringing'. October Robert Gillmor 'Art of Charles Tunnicliffe'. November' David Boag 'Life of the Kingfisher'. December Brian Fagg 'White-billed Diver'.

Indoor Meetings — Solihull January Dr Hilary Dow 'Swedish Spring'. February Daphne Dunstan 'Bird Miscellany'. March Barrie Taylor 'Indian Wildlife'. April Annual General Meeting. October Valerie McFarland Wildlife of the Dee'. November trie Harvey Some British Natural History'. December Bert Coleman '25 Years with Mute Swans'. Our thanks again go to all who assisted with the projection arrangements, raffles and the management of all these indoor meetings.

Events During the year the Club was represented at Stoneleigh and the Solihull Conservation Fair. A visual display was presented at Sutton Coldfield Library. Once again our thanks go to Mrs Daphne Dunstan and her helpers for their invaluable assistance at these events. A I Whatley

Field Meetings Secretary's Report Twelve Field Meetings were held during the year, not including one to the Chew Valley in January which had to be cancelled due to snow. In addition two very successful week-end trips to Devon were held in the spring. All the meetings were well attended, several of the more popular requiring two coaches. A total of 180 members attended one or more meetings. Despite the large numbers, the birdwatching was good and a total of some 180 species were seen during the year. As well as trips within the Club area, places visited included: Rutland Water, Elan Valley, Dee Estuary, Southport & Martin Mere, and Chew Valley in the autumn. 12

I should again like to express my thanks to those who helped run the field meetings, either by looking after the second coach, or by helping less experienced members in the identification of the birds. S H Young

Research Committee Once again the Committee became involved in conservation issues concerning Bartley, Blithfield, Draycote, Kingsbury, Stubbers Green, Sutton Park and Westwood. The issues varied from planning applications for proposed new developments to unauthorised shooting and hot-air ballooning. Such matters take a lot of time and energy to resolve, but it is gratifying to report that satisfactory progress is being made in many instances. The Committee also considered several suggested projects and surveys, ranging from a regional guide for disabled birdwatchers similar to that produced by the Staffordshire Branch to a very ambitious Tetrad Breeding Atlas. In the event it was decided to proceed with a House Martin survey in 1986. On February 17, the Committee celebrated its 300th Meeting by venturing forth on a bitterly cold night to count the City Centre Starling roostl G R Harrison

Staffordshire Branch Report 1985 began with the tragic death, in a motorway accident, of John Hawkins, his wife Monica and son Michael. John was one of our most active members, serving on the Branch Committee, representing the Club on the Bardsey Bird Observatory Committee and chairing the Management Committee of the Staffordshire Nature Conservation Trust's reserve of Jacksons Coppice and Marsh at Eccleshall. The expertise that he gained at Jacksons Coppice made him an obvious choice when it came to looking after the Doxey Marshes Reserve; but that was not to be. A memorial fund was set up with the money going to the organisations with which they were involved. In addition, a film show was held in Stafford with the £360 profit being divided between Bardsey and Doxey. With low attendances at indoor meetings in the north, the high cost of financing two meetings per month and the difficulty in finding a suitable venue there, the Committee reluctantly decided to restrict indoor meetings to one per month in Stafford, at least for a trial period. Lectures covered a wide range of topics; David Salmon of the Wildfowl Trust explained the joys (?) and uses that can be made of wildfowl counts. John Bennett took us to The Gambia and Kenya, Sergeant Doug Stanier gave a very popular talk on enforcing the Wildlife and Countryside Act with an emphasis on birds. Carl Nicholson took us to Austria. Phil Ireland showed us what Clive Minton was up to in Australia, and finally 13

Steve Potter gave an interesting talk on forestry and wildlife. Field meetings were organised to Doxey, Kingsbury Water Park, Blithfield, Tixall, Deep Haye, the Manifold Valley, Needwood, Westport and Rudyard. The North Staffs Moors figured prominently in the work of the Committee. The notification of the SSSI was proceeding, but there was a difference of opinion as to whether certain areas outside the present agreed SSSI boundaries should be included. These areas were mainly fields that we felt were important as feeding areas or nesting areas for Snipe and Curlew. The NCC, in order to justify their inclusion in the SSSI, wanted a field-by-field census of these areas. Whilst the RSPB surveyed the main areas. Branch members undertook to look at the areas of marginal interest, while Frank Gribble, Phil Wain and Bill Low looked at the Axe Edge/Blackstone Rock area that separates the proposed SSSI from the Goyt Valley SSSI. In order to strengthen ties between the Branches and the Parent Club, a meeting was arranged on February 23, at the suggestion of the Staffs Branch, between Branch Officers and members of the Parent Club Committee. A sub- committee was formed to look into the running of the Club and to make suggestions for future developments. At the AGM, Graham Evans and Mike Cresswell were elected to serve as committee members to replace Adrian Digby, who retired, and Terry Bailey who resigned last year. George Smith retired as Field Meetings Secretary and Pete Hogg as General Secretary. Their posts were filled by John Bennett and Trevor Smart respectively. Eric Clare, who also serves as a committee member, continues to represent the Branch on the Main Committee. D W Emley

Ladywalk Reserve The year began on a sunny, frosty note, with a temperature of -15°C recorded at Birmingham Airport on January 17. It snowed regularly but not heavily. At first, the PFA Lagoon was frozen as well as the pools on the Reserve, but water from the Power Station made some large open areas in the Lagoon and at Hide B. There were up to five Scaup in the Lagoon, but the record total of six were in front of Hide A on February 3. Three drakes and five ducks were involved. In January up to 600 Mallard, 310 Teal, a record total of 256 Wigeon, 14 Goldeneye, four Goosander, and three Pintail, Gadwall and Woodcock were recorded. Wildfowling was banned on the sixteenth, but this had little effect on the local cowboys. Some youths were arrested in February for shooting on the WARNACT Reserve and successfully prosecuted. February began mild and dull, with six Scaup and eight Goosander on the third. One redhead spent a lot of time in the next two months sleeping on the tern- raft, where 15 species but no terns have been seen. Heavy snow on the eighth and ninth with strong and bitter easterlies brought another influx, including 14

Red-throated Diver, Mediterranean Gull and Smew in adjacent areas, and up to 13 Goosander on the Reserve later. The Mediterranean Gull was around from the twelfth to the sixteenth, and doubtless was in or over the Lagoon at times, but nobody spotted it in the vast hordes of Black-headed (a record 14,000 on the fifteenth). Milder weather brought Coltsfoot into flower on the twenty-fourth and the first Curlew on the twenty-seventh, much later than usual. March was fairly mild, very dull and rather wet. Towards the end of the month strong and prolonged southerly winds from North Africa brought some migrants to the area earlier than they had ever been seen before. Towards dusk on the twenty-fifth, a single caw from a crow drew attention to a very early immature female Marsh Harrier, while the earliest Yellow Wagtail as yet recorded in the Tame Valley was present on April 1. Adverse weather held up the main group of summer visitors, which appeared in late April and early May. The only Black Redstart of the year was near the Fire Station on May 1, so there was no breeding. This ended a series of nesting reports back to 1974 at least, with pairs on all three stations in several years. May 6 saw at least 16 Willow Warblers, seven Garden Warblers, five Blackcaps, four Whitethroats, two Chiffchaffs, and Wood and Sedge Warblers singing on the Reserve, including the two woods.

A cool, wet spring and summer clearly limited breeding success, with few large parties of fledged wildfowl or passerines being seen. For the first time in the Reserve's history not one wader chick was seen. One brood of Gadwall was reported as was a single two-thirds grown Shoveler. The latter species probably bred near Water Orton, only a mile or two away. Whinchat, Green Woodpecker, Kingfisher and Sand Martin probably bred near the Reserve rather than on it, while Sparrowhawks seemed to fledge only one chick at a traditional site. Tawny Owls were present all year and probably bred on the Reserve, and Barn Owls tried to do so nearby but their eggs were stolen. The arrest and detention of an experienced egg-thief from this area by Norfolk Police in late summer should warn us all of the dangers of talking freely to strangers. A phone-call to one of the Wardens made it clear that the same person has stolen eggs at Coton and Kingsbury this year as well. Water Rail may have bred near the Reserve, since August 3 is a very early date for a migrant. The bird of the summer, whether wild or not, was the lovely drake American Wigeon of June 16 to 19, perhaps the sixteenth species I have put on the list, which now stands at the revised total of 177.

September and October were mainly dry, warm and sunny. Hobbies flew through on September 1 and 12, and different sizes and plumages made it possible to identify seven different Sparrowhawks during the autumn. A giant grey and pink male the size of a normal female, and a huge female almost the size of a male Goshawk, were of great interest, even when identified. The bird of the autumn, however, was a lovely male Hen Harrier, to which an angry crow drew attention on October 23. Wader passage was quite good, with plenty of Greenshank and Common Sandpipers, and several records of Spotted Redshank. Up to 14 Curlews roosted in the Lagoon, which attracted Sandwich 15

Tern and Reeve early in October. The only Garganey of the year in the valley occurred on September 22, when I heard the first winter visitors. These were Siskins for a change, their numbers reaching 50 by late October and 65 by December. Redwings arrived late but in good numbers from October 15, and Fieldfares from the sixteenth with some large-scale movements of the latter in mid-December. Shoveler peaked at a new record of 105 early in September, while numbers of Mallard, Teal and Wigeon rose steadily through the autumn. On December 29 a record 655 Teal were on the ice. On the management side, this was the first full year since Harry Lees died, and I am sure he would have approved of the work carried out by the Wardens, WMBC volunteers and the CEGB's Coal and Ash Department, who between them have achieved a great deal. Harry was very concerned that the climax vegetation of the Reserve, alder carr and birch-coppice, is neither rare nor of much ornithological interest, unlike the original wetland habitat of the inauguration year, 1970. John Fortey and Steve Cawthray began making scrapes for waders and opening up the views from the hides in the late winter, which led to Wednesday evening work-parties in July and August. Islands were cleared and profiled, scrapes were made or extended, and vegetation was cut down where necessary. Some trees had to be pruned where the view from the hides was badly obscured. In October the CEGB used a bulldozer and dumper in front of Hide A to make an excellent quarter-acre scrape, which is currently two-thirds covered in water to a depth of just over a foot. Many thanks to Graham Archer and his Department. The new scrape will eventually get some aquatic life in it and be a great asset. As yet the best species has been heron. Steve Cawthray, who became the fifth Warden in the course of the year, set up bird-tables in the autumn, and suet-posts which have been very popular with Great Spotted Woodpeckers. The species on the tables so far have been (in order) Jay, Pheasant, Green Woodpecker, Great Tit, Magpie, Dunnock, Robin, Blue Tit and Great Spotted Woodpecker. Starlings and House Sparrows have not been seen anywhere near them. Great Spotted Woodpeckers have learned to peck holes in the plastic nut-bags, and to peck through the loops from which they hang. Steve Cawthray and Keith Loveridge have made a number of nest-boxes of various types, including owl and Kestrel, and all of these should be in position by the spring. One oak and a few limes seem to be the only really mature trees on the marsh, so extra boxes should increase the number of tits and other birds nesting in the area. The re-planting scheme in Church Pool Covert, begun ten years ago to repair the damage caused by Dutch Elm Disease, has clearly been very successful. A new and healthy young wood has sprung up, so the rabbit- proof fence can now be removed from each plantation. The Reserve is now in good order and visitors to the hides on the marsh have been delighted to see the improvements, in particular the quality of the new scrape. We look forward, therefore, to a successful year in 1986. Finally, we 16

would like to wish Mr Jack Davis a long and happy retirement. We have all appreciated his work, interest and concern as General Manager of the Power Stations and Chairman of the Nature Reserve Management Committee. B L Kington

North Staffordshire Moors Survey Introduction Great problems were being encountered in attempting to decide which parts of the North Staffordshire Moors should be designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). To try to solve these problems, the RSPB, with the backing of the Nature Conservancy Council, the co-operation of the Staffordshire Nature Conservation Trust and West Midland Bird Club, and with additional funding by the North Staffordshire RSPB Local Members Group, decided to mount a field by field survey of the area. The aims of the survey were: i) to assess, as accurately as possible, the population of selected upland bird species; ii) to ascertain which habitats were being used by those species; and iii) to consider the impact of present agricultural and other usages. Habitat The area surveyed covered some 14000 acres (5666 ha) in the extreme northern part of Staffordshire, bounded to the north and north-west by the rivers Dane and Dove; to the south-west by the long ridge of The Roaches and Back Forest; to the south by a line from Upper Hulme through Elkstones to Warslow; and to the east by a line from Warslow through Newtown to Hollinsclough. It is mostly over 1000ft (300m) and is conveniently divided into two halves by the A53 Leek to Burton road. The land to the west of the A53 is generally higher than that to the east, reaching 1800ft (500m). On the western side there are a number of steep- sided, rocky valleys and numerous rocky outcrops. To the east, the land is generally flatter and, in the south, falls to about 900ft (274m) before changing into improved farmland. The following five main habitat types are represented within the area: i) Heather Calluna or cotton grass Eriophorum Moorland ii) Traditionally, moderately grazed rushy fields Rushy areas iii) Heavily grazed pasture with some rushes 1 iv) Unimproved hay meadows > Grassland v) Improved meadows for hay or silage ) The heather/cotton grass moor covers about one-third of the area, with the remainder being almost equally divided between the other four habitat types. The chief characteristic is that the five habitat types form a mosaic, thus 17

presenting a large amount of moorland edge although there is proportionally more heather moorland in the southern half. Woodland is very scarce and occurs only as small areas in the steeper valleys or as a few small copses. There are two exceptions to this, namely a fairly recently planted conifer wood of about 100 acres (40 ha) and the steep-sided valley of Back Forest. There are several small areas of sallow scrub in the area, chiefly on the heather moorland, which are important for several bird species.

The land to the north of the survey area is mostly high, heather moorland (1500 to 1800ft or 455m to 550m) with quite a lot of cotton grass, whilst the rest of the area is mostly improved farmland. The heather/cotton grass moor is kept as a grouse moor by Lord Derby, while the improved farmland is mostly used for dairy farming, although in very recent times more sheep have been appearing. Indeed, recent times have seen a major change in farming practice, with the small dairy farming units that were so characteristic of the area and largely responsible for the mosaic of habitats almost completely disappearing. They have been replaced by large scale sheep farming, a few large dairy units and a number of part-time farms which carry a few sheep, cattle, horses or goats, or a mixture of all four. Quite a number of small homesteads are empty, the land being swallowed up by large users, and well over two-thirds of the area is controlled by just five landowners. Grazing densities are often very high for the type of land involved, varying from 10 to as many as 25 sheep per hectare. The effects of this intensive grazing are often exacerbated by the habit of running beef cattle along with the sheep. Around the larger dairy units, land is steadily being improved by drainage which is frequently followed by ploughing and re- seeding or by direct drilling.

In the southern half of the area, the Ministry of Defence is very active, with a firing range and a large infantry training area. Use of the firing range appears to have decreased in recent years, but over the same period there has been a considerable increase in the use of the training areas. Recreational activity is also increasing in the area, The Roaches being particularly popular. Some parts, such as Back Forest, Gradbach Hill and the northern section, particularly around Knotbury, have become increasingly used by walkers. In fact, almost without exception, the locals are saying that walkers are appearing on paths that have not been used for many years. Hang-gliding is now a popular activity in the Hen Cloud area, a lot of pony trekking is organised in the Flash region and orienteering takes place more often. Finally, there is birdwatching, which has grown at an alarming rate and spread to even the most remote parts of the area.

Survey Method Following established procedures, it was decided that the area should be surveyed completely a minimum of three times between April 28 and July 10. Visits were made between the hours of 5.30 and 10.00 or 18.00 and 22.00, 18

weather and light permitting. A total of 112 visits were made to the area, including four dnring the middle of the day. With just a few exceptions, all the surveys were carried out from the excellent system of existing roads and public footpaths. Only where the odd field was too remote to be accurately covered was permission sought through the NCC to walk over the land. This permission was always forthcoming and no area was inadequately covered. Every field was surveyed, with individual record cards being filled in for each field which yielded any sort of information. As well as birds, habitat types, the sort of grazing and its obvious effects and other.animals and plants were noted. In fact, a number of exciting discoveries concerning the flora were made during the survey. The first aim was to establish the presence of a species in any one field, even birds which were simply feeding. Under this heading of presence were put single records such as a singing male or a bird investigating possible nesting habitat. The second aim was to try to establish whether or not breeding was taking place. For this, the two categories probable breeding and confirmed breeding were used. The former included pairs seen in suitable nesting sites, permanent territories established, display and courtship, nest building or agitated behaviour when approached. Confirmed breeding embraced seeing nests, recently fledged young, distraction display or adults carrying food or faecal sacs. For habitats the first record was of the dominant vegetation, such as heather moor or improved hayfield. Then a record was made as to the presence or absence of other smaller features such as pools or streams, scrub, flushes, walls and such like. Bare ground was also noted and an attempt made to quantify each of the above categories. Grazing animals were also noted together with any obvious effects of their presence. This was particularly important as the habitat types sometimes changed dramatically between successive runs of the survey. All birds were recorded, but no attempt was made to quantify the populations of species such as Skylark and Meadow Pipit. Careful records of Crows and Magpies were made initially, but it soon became clear that these were centred around the various human habitations. On the second and third surveys, records were therefore confined to breeding sites. Results The breeding populations of certain principal species are shown in Table 1, whilst those for other species are presented in Table 2. Records of species which, so far as is known, were not breeding are shown in Table 3. Of the 72 species recorded during the survey, 58 were breeding. With one or two notable exceptions, there is a better variety and population of species in the north of the area. It is interesting to see that almost the entire Ring Ouzel and Wheatear populations are to the west of the A53, but that the Black Grouse is almost entirely confined to the east of the road. 19

The area of Gradbach Hill was counted carefully in 1974 and a repeat count was made during this survey to give the direct comparison shown in Table 4.

Table 1: Principal Breeding Species

No. of pairs No. of pairs Species Probably Confirmed Total Breeding Breeding

Merlin 1 1 Red Grouse 97 3 100 Black Grouse 17 leking males 5 5 Golden Plover 5 7 12 Lapwing 68 204 . 272 Snipe 302 83 385 Curlew 371 153 524 Redshank 1 1 2 Cuckoo 19 — 19 Whinchat 16 35 51 Wheatear 9 48 57 Ring Ouzel 14 47 61 Fieldfare — 1 1 Twite 84 11 95 Reed Bunting 4 43 47

Table 2: Other Breeding Birds

Species No. of pairs Species No. of pairs

Teal 6 Stonechat 4 Mallard 31 Blackbird 17 Kestrel 5 Song Thrush 1 Grey Partridge 3 Mistle Thrush 2 Pheasant 4 Sedge Warbler 1 Barn Owl 1 Lesser Whitethroat 2 Little Owl 3 Whitethroat 1 Tawny Owl 2 Willow Warbler unknown Long-eared Owl. 3 Coal Tit 1 Swift unknown Blue Tit 5 Skylark abundant Great Tit 3 Swallow common Magpie 22 Tree Pipit 2 Carrion Crow 34 Meadow Pipit abundant Starling 39 Yellow Wagtail 1 House Sparrow unknown Grey Wagtail 4 Tree Sparrow 8 Pied Wagtail 7 Chaffinch 2 Dipper 3 Linnet 39 Wren unknown Redpoll 7 Dunnock 4 Bullfinch 1 Robin unknown Yellowhammer 2 Redstart 6 20

Table 3: Birds recorded, but not believed to be breeding

Species Status

Grey Heron Odd birds occasionally Sparrowhawk Just three sightings Red-legged Partridge One seen on just one day Woodcock Three seen feeding in July Black-headed Gull Frequently seen feeding in fields Lesser Black-backed Gull The most commonly seen species Herring Gull Occasionally seen feeding in fields Great Black-backed Gull Flying over, fairly regular Stock Dove Regularly seen feeding in fields Woodpigeon Seen regularly Short-eared Owl Just two sightings Redwing Large numbers seen in spring with Fieldfares Jackdaw Seen regularly Rook Seen regularly

Table 4: Comparison between 1974 Census and 1985 Survey of Gradbach Hill

Species No. of pairs No. of pairs 1974 1985

Kestrel 1 Merlin 1 Red Grouse 16 3 Black Grouse 6 male, 4 female* Snipe 8 1 Curlew 9 2 Cuckoo 2 Little Owl 1 Skylark 40 6 Meadow Pipit 90 16 Pied Wagtail 1 Wren 4 Dunnock 1 1 Whinchat 1 Wheatear 6 1 Ring Ouzel 11 1 Linnet 5 1

Total in 120 acres (48.5 ha) 203 32

Notes: * maximum seen on any one visit. During the 1974 Census the area was visited 18 times between March 25 and July 16 and surveyed by two people making transects at 40 yard (36.5m) intervals. At that time the Hill was managed as a grouse moor. 21

Possibly the most surprising results were the complete absence of breeding Short-eared Owl and the high populations of Twite and Ring Ouzel. From a habitat point of view, the data shows a most worrying increase in grazing pressure over almost the whole area, and a considerable intensification of agricultural activity. This, combined with increasing disturbance by the Army and recreational activity, poses considerable problems for wildlife in the future.

Discussion Waders The breeding wader populations were very high particularly those of Curlew and Snipe. Golden Plover and Redshank were much as one would expect, taking into account the habitats available, but Lapwings were breeding at a lower level than expected. The Dunlin records were rather exciting as this species has never bred in Staffordshire, but unfortunately the bird which sang throughout the survey period did not appear to find a mate. The Golden Plovers were concentrated in the extreme north of the county, where they form part of a larger breeding group of about 25 pairs. In 1974 there were at least 10 pairs to the east of the A53, mostly concentrated at the southerly end. but these have largely disappeared from the area which is used for Army exercises. Just one pair remains and numerous instances of disturbance were observed during the breeding season', almost on a daily basis. This same area formerly held two pairs of Redshank, but those have also gone. The whole of this area is grazed by sheep, which it is believed are trespassing, and to a lesser extent by cattle. Whilst some grazing is essential to maintain the structure of the heather moor and keep some open patches amongst the rushes, it is urgent that this is brought under control. Perhaps some form of agreement might be arranged with the Army to reduce, or even eliminate, disturbance during the breeding season. The main population in the north is also subject to extremely high grazing pressures of recent introduction and it is known that one nest was destroyed by trampling. If this population is to be maintained it is vital that grazing densities are brought under firm control before lack of breeding success eliminates the species. The Redshank numbers (two pairs) were slightly better than expected. Both were breeding in the same vicinity and using very wet areas, which also held good numbers of Snipe, Curlew, Skylark, Meadow Pipit and Reed Bunting. These areas were relatively lightly grazed, chiefly by cattle, and contained at least 50% rush cover. Any increase in grazing density on them should be resisted, as should drainage or land improvement proposals. The Snipe population of 385 is obviously of very high importance, with good concentrations at Knotbury, Adders Green, Middle Edge, Shaw Bottom, Pethills, Blackstone Edge, Badgers Croft/Boarsgrove, Upper Fleet Green and the Reapsmoor area. All of these areas have fields with a high percentage of 22

rush, many are very wet and there are generally fairly low grazing densities. It is quite clear that recently drained fields which still have a good rush cover, but are drying out, hold very few Snipe, even if grazing densities are not too high. It is also clear that in many areas extremely high grazing densities are not only destroying the rush cover, but are resulting in the packing of the soil and in the trampling of many nests. Curlew were found in similar situations to Snipe, but were rather more catholic in their choice of habitat, using for instance, the heather moor to a much greater extent. As with Snipe, this species also suffered from high grazing densities and fields which were drying out despite the wet season. However, it did appear to cope better with the drier conditions and was prepared to move further from the breeding site to feed. Unlike Snipe, Curlew were observed feeding regularly in the highly improved fields, especially those for silage or hay. Late in the season, they also started to nest in those hay fields which remained uncut due to the extremely poor weather conditions. In a better year, this could prove to be disastrous, as those which attempted to breed in the silage fields discovered, when both nests and young may suffer in the teeth of a mowing machine. Reed Bunting was not included in the initial list of selected species, but the results show that it very closely mirrors the distribution of Snipe. Hence it might be used as an indicator as to where one could expect to find the best Snipe densities in the moorlands. The Lapwing population, at 272 pairs, was rather disappointing, with numbers in the south being particularly poor. In contrast, the north had a really good population, with especially good concentrations around Knotbury and on Oliver Hill. Grouse Black Grouse were carefully studied in 1974 (Lovenbury, Waterhouse, Yalden et at.) when a population of some 47 Blackcock was discovered. At that time, eight lek sites were being used, one of which was a complex affair spreading to top Swallow Moss and down the Blake Brook Valley. At the start of the present survey, it was soon apparent that the population had declined dramatically, with only 14 birds using three lek sites. The bulk of these 14 cocks were concentrated at one site, with the species almost extinct to the west of A53 where just one cock was leking. Even to the east of the A53 numbers had dropped alarmingly and only two leks were being used. Major habitat changes have taken place to the east of the road since 1974, with drainage being the most important. This has resulted in considerable drying out, which in turn has often led to either increased grazing pressure or major land improvement through re-seeding. To the west, there have been fewer such improvements, especially in the areas important to Blackcock, but there has been a tremendous increase in grazing density and problems of birds being shot. The comparative study on Gradbach Hill, a former lek site, provides the best pointer to the effects of over-grazing, as the total bird population has 23

dropped from 203 pairs to only 32, due entirely to over-grazing. Five nests of Greyhens were discovered and all of these were in dense rushes in very wet areas. Perhaps this gives a clue as to what has gone wrong on the eastern side. At 100 pairs, the population of Red Grouse is still in a healthy state compared with that of the Black. The heather moor, on which all the breeding pairs were located, is in relatively small pieces and the condition of each piece differs, sometimes considerably. Sometimes it is tall and overgrown, but in others it is very closely cropped and supports almost nothing. The pieces which fall in between these two extremes are the ones which support good numbers of grouse and are also good for Twite and other birds. It is vital, therefore, that over-grazing of the moorland is eliminated. Much of the moorland is affected in one way or another, but a lot of this is in the early stages. It is also important that some form of management of the old growth is carried out, possibly by controlled burning or flail cutting. Wheatear and Ring Ouzel The main populations of these two species were almost entirely west of the A53. In the case of Ring Ouzel this is not entirely surprising, since most of the steep gulleys and rocky outcrops occur there. In 1974, the main population occupied a similar area, although there were at least six other pairs to the east of the road. However, the total population was then only about 40 pairs, compared with 61 pairs in the present survey. Almost all of the increase has taken place in the northern part of the area and this is quite considerable when one takes into account the large loss of habitat on Gradbach Hill. Wheatears often occur in similar situations to Ring Ouzels, so it is hardly surprising to find a healthy population where the latter is breeding. The Wheatear, however, is more catholic in the choice of nesting situations and so it is surprising to find lower numbers breeding overall and it is a complete mystery as to why over 30 pairs should have disappeared from the area east of the road since 1974.

Twite At 95 pairs, the Twite population is about twice as large as any previous work in the area indicated. It is known that populations at the edge of the range tend to fluctuate markedly and, of course, it may be that this was simply a good year. All the birds were associated with true moorland areas and there were especially good concentrations around the best pieces in the north. Interestingly, it was found that all the sites which had really good'numbers of Twite were also rich in Meadow Pipit, Skylark and Linnet and were visited regularly by hunting Merlin. It was noticeable that the poor pieces of moor held very low numbers of all these species. Twite were quite late arriving, most pairs not holding territories until June, and they were not really evident until the end of June. This, of course, may explain the lower populations suggested by earlier work. Whinchat and Stonechat The number of Whinchats present was rather higher than expected, whilst four pairs of Stonechats were a real surprise. The Stonechats were confined to the extreme east of the survey area and, in fact, there was a fifth pair just outside 24

the boundary. This species is very scarce in both Staffordshire and Derbyshire and this small concentration is of considerable importance. All the pairs were in diedb with luis of yorse and scrub. Whinchats, on the other hand, were spread over the whole area, with a particular concentration in the Swallow Moss area. They were often associated with very rushy areas, particularly when marsh thistle was also present in reasonable quantity, or with the small thickets of sallow scrub on the heather moorland. In the latter habitat, they were often accompanied by Redpoll. Merlin and Fieldfare These two rarities were both represented by just one breeding pair, although a second Merlin was breeding just outside the area. The Fieldfares were breeding very close to a site occupied five years ago, but they seem to move about a great deal from year to year. The Merlins on the other hand, chose a piece of heather moor which was in optimum condition, as did those just off the survey area. Both pairs spent much of their time hunting within the survey area. It is clear that Merlin require top quality heather moorland to breed on and several areas within fairly easy reach over which to hunt. These areas must support large numbers of small birds, such as Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Twite and Linnet. Cuckoo The Cuckoo deserves special mention, even though it was not on the initial list of selected species. It is now becoming so scarce in much of Staffordshire and many other counties that any reasonable concentration has to be important. At 19 pairs, it was well represented in the area, but even this represents a considerable decline in numbers from that of 1974 when at least 27 were found. Large numbers of small birds, including the Reed Bunting, are essential to act as foster parents for the Cuckoo if a viable population is to be maintained. Habitat The habitat records show that about one third of the area consists of heather/cotton grass moor in various stages of development. At least half of this is suffering from over-grazing and a further quarter has gone past its best. This leaves only a small amount in prime condition, with a concentration of birds gathered on it. Some of the over-grazing is of a trespass-grazing nature and therefore should be fairly easy to control, but the remainder could mean that difficult negotiations with tenant and landowner lie ahead. However, this habitat is so important that any negotiations should be firmly pursued. By far the best habitat as far as bird numbers are concerned are the wet, rushy fields. There are now only a few really good patches of this habitat left, all holding high numbers of Snipe and Curlew and excellent small bird populations, but there are several which could, with strict control on grazing, resume their former importance fairly quickly. Often close to the wet, rushy areas are fields which are still rushy, but rather drier. In most of these there is an extremely high grazing density with the consequent hard packing of soil and loss of rush cover. In two instances, fields of this type were left ungrazed this year and the improvement in bird numbers was very dramatic, giving hope for 25

the future. There is little doubt that so long as new drainage schemes do not go ahead, a reduction in grazing intensity would bring about a great improvement in both wading and small bird numbers. The unimproved meadows are generally very rich floristically and will be worthy of considering for scheduling simply on that basis, but they seem to be of no higher value to birds than the improved hay meadows. On the other hand, the improved fields which are used for silage are of little use to birds. Even the feeding flocks before and after the breeding season appear to shun them although there are often small numbers present immediately after a cut has been taken. The hay meadows are used by breeding Curlew and Lapwing, plus several of the smaller birds such as Skylark and Meadow Pipit with a few Whinchats. These hay meadows are of particular importance for feeding flocks of birds before and after the breeding season. It is not unusual to see several hundred Curlew or Lapwing feeding and even Golden Plover are found in flocks of up to 80.

Other Breeding Birds 43 other species were discovered within the area. Of these, perhaps the most important were Barn Owl, Teal, Mallard and Redpoll, with Long-eared Owl, Sedge Warbler and Kestrel close behind. The Barn Owl is now a very scarce breeding species in Staffordshire and must rate very highly in any survey. It is a species which is in some difficulty in a national context, never having properly recovered from the problems associated with DDT. The wildfowl population is not high on the Moors, but with 31 pairs of Mallard located and others not pursued, it is probable that the largest concentration in Staffordshire is found here. There was a particular concentration of Teal in the Goldsitch Moss area which should be taken into account when considering future management of the area. Redpoll were found breeding in several of the small sallow thickets on the moorland, so often used by feeding Black Grouse during the winter. There were also some present in the small patches of woodland, but their populations were not determined. The breeding Sedge Warbler was a real surprise and was located in a small bed of Phragmites close to Averil Side. The biggest surprise of the whole survey was the non-breeding of Short-eared Owls. Only two sightings were obtained throughout the survey, compared with at least 10 pairs breeding in 1974. However, this was off-set to some extent by the discovery of three pairs of Long-eared Owls, all nesting in old Magpie nests in scrubby hawthorns. These birds appear to be part of the larger population of this species on the adjacent lower farmland. Gradbach Hill During the last three years Gradbach Hill has suffered from trespassing cattle and sheep. During those years the number of animals has steadily increased until, during the winter and spring of 1984/85, there were up to 40 cattle and 150 sheep. The results of this trespass-grazing are alarming. The vegetation on 26

the steep slopes has been almost completely removed and now there is a considerable amount of erosion. Over the lower lying, much flatter, grassy areas there is a sea' of mud, whilst on the true moorland area there has been some damage to the tussock structure and again there are muddy areas. The census results show that this damage to the vegetation has resulted in a dramatic fall in both the quantity and variety of breeding birds. The total number of breeding birds has fallen from 203 pairs to only 32 and the number of breeding species has fallen from 16 to only 10. Even the number of species recorded has greatly reduced from 33 to 15, and the 15 included two new species. It is sad to record that Black Grouse have disappeared, but even more worrying to see that Wheatear, Ring Ouzel and Snipe are barely maintaining their presence. The greatest impact of the grazing is to be seen in the populations of Meadow Pipit and Skylark, where there have been tremendous losses. Meadow Pipits have declined from 90 to only 16 pairs and Skylarks from 40 to only six pairs. This has obviously had a great effect on the Cuckoo and Merlin, the latter of which bred successfully in 1981.

Clearly, the grazing intensity has had a severe impact on the breeding birds. A complete rest from grazing is essential. Most of the plant species are present, although only in small quantities in some areas, and there seems to be no reason why the area should not quickly resume its former importance given sympathetic management.

Conclusion It is obvious that the North Staffordshire Moors are of considerable importance for breeding birds. The populations of Snipe, Curlew, Golden Plover, Ring Ouzel, Whinchat and Twite are all sufficiently large to enable a viable population to be maintained given the right sort of habitat protection. The Black Grouse population, the last in the Peak District National Park and the only one in Staffordshire, is under considerable pressure and urgently requires protection. The Merlin, which is just about hanging on, is a species which is threatened nationally and therefore strenuous efforts should be made to ensure sufficient habitat is retained for it, together with a thriving small bird population. It is clear that all of the important bird species on the North Staffordshire Moors are threatened in one way or another and it is extremely urgent that steps be taken to alleviate these threats. High grazing densities pose the greatest threat to all types of habitat, but particularly to the true moorland and rushy areas. Agricultural improvement schemes are another subject of immediate concern. Even as the survey was taking place, three areas of heather moorland were being destroyed. Increasing activity by the Army is also a serious problem in the south of the area, although the relative privacy of the firing ranges has proved beneficial. Possibly the intrusion which is most difficult to control is that of recreational disturbance. Better way-marking and improvement in the condition of existing footpaths might help, but a much greater effort is required to educate both birdwatchers and walkers on the dangers that moorland birds face. M Waterhouse 28

1985 Bird Record Localities The following alphabetical list for each county gives the grid reference of all localities mentioned in the Report. The accompanying map shows every locality for which a record was submitted in 1985.

Warwickshire Alvecote SK2504 Galley Common SP3191 Oakley Wood SP3059 Ansty SP4083 Offchurch SP3565 Arley SP2890 Hams Hall SP2092 Over Whitacre SP2491 Arrow SP0856 Hartshill SP3294 Astley SP3189 Henley-in-Arden SPIbbb Packington SP2284 Howe Green SP3188 Pillerton Priors SP2947 Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Poriway SP0872 Baddesley Ensor SP2798 Judkins Quarry SP3492 Purley Park SP3096 Bentley Park SP2895 Kineton Bidford SP1051 SP3351 Ragley SP0755 SP0854 Binton Wood SP1453 Kingley Rugby SP5075 Birdingbury SP4368 Kingsbury SP2096 Ryton SP3772 Bishops Bowl SP3958 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Bodymoor Heath Kings Coughton SP0858 SP1996 Salford Spinney SP0649 Brandon Marsh SP3875 SP3290 Ladywalk SP2191 Seeswood Pool Broom SPOB53 SP2291 Lea Marston SP2093 Shustoke Skills Common SP0967 Leamington Spa SP3165 Charlecote SP2656 Somers. The SP2282 Little Packington SP2085 Chesterton SP3558 Stoneleigh SP3372 Long Lawford SP4776 Claverdon SP1964 Stratford SP2055 Lower Packington SP2184 Clowes Wood SP0973 Sych Wood SP2092 Lowsonford SP1867 Coleshill SP2089 Compton Verney SP3152 Marston SP2094 Ufton Fields SP3861 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Umberslade SP1371 Coton SP2194 Maxstoke SP2386 Merevale SP2997 Middleton Hall SP1898 Walton SP2852 Oordon SK2600 Minworth SF SP1791 Warwick SP2864 Oraycote Water SP4669 Wasperton SP2658 Nether Whitacre SP2392 Wellesbourne Wood SP2753 Earlswood SP1174 N'ewbold Comyn SP3365 Whateley SP2299 Exhall SP1055 New Close Wood SP4077 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Newton Gorse SK2807 Wolston SP4175 Fillongley SP2887 Newton Regis SK2707 Wootton Wawen SP1563

Worcestershire Abberley S07567 S09144 British Camp S07640 Abberton S09953 S07875 Broadway SP0937 Alfrick S07453 S09342 Bromsgrove S09570 Alvechurch SP0272 S09851 Anderdine Hill S07356 Bittell SP0174 Cadmore Brook Areley Kings S08070 Bonemill Callow Hill S07473 Arrow Valley Park SP0667 Bordesley SP0469 Castlemorton Common S07839 Ashmoor Common S08546 Brazier's Wood Chadbury SP0246 SP0350 S09136 Chaddesley Wood S09173 Bredon Hill S09539 Chase End Hill S07635 Beckford S09735 Bredons Hardwick S09135 Churchill S08779 Bentley S09865 Briar Hill Coppice Clent Hills S09379 29

Coldridge Wood S08082 Kendal End SP0074 Rodge Hill Quarry S07562 Croome S08844 S08376 Romers Common S05962 Cropthorne S09944 Kingswood S08866 Roundhill Wood S09858 Crowle S09256 Knapp, The S07451 Rous Lench SP0153 Knightwick £07355 Ryoll S00640 Dales Wood Kyre S06263 Deerfold Wood S09147 St. Anne's Well S07745 S09143 Larford S08169 Sailings Common S06061 Devil's Den S07163 Lickey Hills S09975 Severn Stoke S08544 Diglis S08453 S09643 Shelsley S07262 Doverdale S08566 Little Goosehill S09360 Shernal Green S09161 Dowles Brook S07676 Little Malvern S07740 Shrawley S08064 S09159 Longdon Marsh S08336 Sling Pool S09477 Longley Green S07350 Spetchley S08953 Eardiston S06968 Lower Bentley S09865 Spring Coppice S08081 Eckington S09241 Lower Moor S09847 Stanford S07065 S09841 Lynail's Coppice S07375 Stoulton S09049 SP0344 Stour Hill S08373 Eymore Wood S07779 Madeley Heath S09577 Stourport S08171 Malvern SO7745 Stourvale Marsh S08277 S08759 Marlcliff SP0950 S09039 Fillet Wood S08859 Suckley S07251 S09946 Matchborough SP0766 Summerfield S08373 Frankley SP0080 Menith Wood S07069 Motlins Hole Thicknall $09079 Gadbury Bank S07931 Mustow Green S08674 Thorngrove S08260 Goosehill Wood S09360 Throckmorton S09849 Great Witley S07566 Netherton S09941 Tibberton S09057 Grimley S08360 New Pool Tiddesley Wood S09245 Groveley SP0376 Nunnery Wood S08754 Torton S08472 Trench Wood S09258 Habberley S08077 Oakenshaw SP0465 Trimpley S07778 Hadley Brook S08663 Oakley S08960 Twyning S09036 S09162 S09159 Hagley S09180 Old Hills Common S08248 Uckinghall S08638 Hallow S08258 Oldington S08173 Upper Welland S07840 Hall Wood S08463 Upton-on-Severn S08540 Hanbury S09663 S09454 Hangmans Hill S07639 Pensax S07268 S09367 Happy Valley S07645 S09350 S08470 Perdiswell S08557 Warndon S08856 S08874 Perry Wood S06261 Washford' SP0765 Harvington Island SP0647 S09445 Welland S07940 Haws Hill • S06065 S09549 West Hagley S09080 High Green S08745 Pirton S08747 Westmancote S09437 Hillditch Coppice S08270 Powick S08351 Westwood Park S08763 S08758 Puckrup S08736 Weymans Wood S07261 Hollybush Roughs S07636 Wilden S08272 Hollywood SP0877 Queenhill S08636 Winterfold S08773 Holt S08262 Witnells End Holt Fleet S08263 Ragged Stone Hill S08279 Holt Heath S08163 Redcliff Worcester S08454 Redditch SP0467 Worcestershire Beacon S07645 Ipsley SP0665 Rhydd S08075 Wribbenhall S07975 Island Coppice S07873 S07475 Ripple S08738 S09647 Kempsey S08549 Rock Coppice S07673 Wythall SP0774 30

Staffordshire Alrcwos SKI 715 Fot holme SK2017 Mile Oak SKI 002 Amington SK2304 Fisherwick SK1709 Milford SJ9721 Aqualate SJ7720 Ford Green SJ8950 Mill Green Park SJ9810 Aqueduct Covert SJ9721 Four Crosses SJ9509 Astonefields SJ9225 Foxt SK0348 Nabb Lane SK0840 Fradley SK1513 Newborough SKI325 Freeford SKI 307 Newcastle SJ8445 Back Forest SJ9865 Froghall SK0247 Baggeridge S08992 Norton Canes SK0107 Bagots Wood SK0727 SJ9310 Barton-under-Needwood Gailey Oakamoor SK0544 SK1818 Gibbet Wood S08683 Baswich SJ9422 Gib Torr SK0264 Pattingham S08299 Beaudesert SK0313 Gradbach SJ9965 Pillaton SJ9413 Bednall SJ9517 Great Haywood SJ9922 Podmore Pool SJ7835 Belvide SJ8610 Greens SK0066 Pottal Pool SJ9714 Betley SJ7548 Greensforge SO8688 Greenway Bank SJ8855 Blithfield SK0623 Ranton SJ8524 Gun Hill SJ9761 Bonehill SK1902 Rickerscote SJ9320 Borrowpit Lake SK2103 Rocester SK1139 Brancote SJ9522 Hammerwich SK0607 Rudyard SJ9459 Branston SK2120 Hanchurch SJ8441 Rugeley Rifle Range SJ9917 Brewood SJ8808 Hanley SJ8747 Rushton Spencer SJ9362 Brocton SJ9719 Harley Thorns SJ8339 Burnt Wood SJ7434 SJ9510 Hatherton Sandon SJ9429 Burton SK2423 SK0212 Hazelslade Sandonbank SJ9428 SK0110 Heath Hayes Seven Springs SK0020 Heaton SJ9562 Cannock SJ9710 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 SJ8441 Cannock Chase SK0017 Hem Heath Shugborough SJ9922 S08489 SK0307 Highgate Common Stafford SJ9223 SJ7826 Chatterley SJ8451 High Offley Stafford Common SJ9125 S08891 SJ9752 Himley Stourton S08584 Cheddleton SK0025 SJ8606 Hixon Swallow Moss SK0660 Chillington SK2200 SJ9808 Hockley Swynnerton SJ8535 Churchbridge SK0666 SK0345 Hollingsclough Churnet Valley SK1326 SK2626 Hollybush Lake Clay Mills SK1705 Tamworth SK2003 SJ8603 Hopwas Codsall Tittensor SJ8738 SK0121 Colwich Tittesworth SJ9959 SJ9848 Consall Iverley S08781 Tixall SJ9722 SK0052 Coombes Valley Trentham Park SJ8640 Copmere SJ8029 Keele SJ8045 Trent Vale SJ8643 Croxall SK1913 Kettlebrook SK2103 Trysull S08594 Kings Bromley SKI 216 Dimmingsdale SK0543 Kinver S08383 Upper Longdon SK0614 Dosthill SK2100 Upper Stonnall SK0703 Downs Banks SJ9036 Leacroft SK0009 SJ9024 Doxey Lichfield SK1109 Weeford SK1403 SKI 820 Dunstall Longsdon SJ9554 Westlands SJ8344 Longton SJ9043 Westport SJ8550 Eccleshall SJ8329 Whit more SJ8141 Elford SK1810 Maer SJ7938 Whittington S08582 Elmhurst SK1112 Marchington SK1330 Wootton SK1045 Enville S08386 Meaford SJ8835 Essington SJ9603 Middle Hills SK0363 Yoxall SK1419 31

West Midlands Aldridge SK0500 Hampton-in-Arden SP2080 Queslett SP0694 Ashmore Park SJ9601 Handsworth SP0490 Harborne SP0284 Rushall SK0201 bar? beacon SH069/ 1 layhead Wood GP0498 Bartley SP0081 Hockley SP0588 Saltwells Wood S09387 Bearwood SP0286 Hockley Heath SP1572 Sandwell Valley SP0291 Belle Vale S09584 Hollywood SP0878 Selly Oak SP0482 Berkswell SP2479 Hydes Road Pool S09994 Shirley SP1178 Bickenhill SP1882 Sneyd SJ9802 S09496 Kingstanding SP0794 Solihull SP1579 Birmingham SP0686 Knowle SP1876 Stourbridge S09084 Bradnocks Marsh SP2179 Stubbers Green SK0401 Brierley Hill Pools S09186 Langley SO 9988 Sutton Coldfield SP1296 Bromwich Wood S09981 Longbridge SP0077 Sutton Park SP0997 Brownhills SK0405 Longmoor SP0996 SP0981 Lower Gornal S09291 Tipton S09492 Clayhanger SK0404 Lunt, The S09696 Tividale S09790 Coundon Wedge SP3081 Tocil Wood SP3075 Coventry SP3379 Meriden SP2482 Trittiford Park SP0980 Cradley S09484 Minworth SP1692 Tudor Grange SP1479 Moseley SP0783 Turners Hill S09688 Darlaston S09797 Moxley S09695 Dorridge SP1675 Wall Heath S08889 Netherton S09388 Dudley S09490 SP0198 Northfield SP0279 Warley Woods SP0086 Norton Green Park SP0584 SP1774 Warwick University SP2976 Edgbaston Reservoir SP0486 SJ9400 Elmdon SP1682 Ocker Hill S09793 West Bromwich SP0091 SP1191 Oldswinford * S09698 SP0892 Four Oaks SP1198 Park Lime Pits SP0299 Wolverhampton S09198 Penn S08995 Woodgate Valley SP0083 Halesowen S09683 Pensnett S09188 Wyken Slough SP3683 Hall Green SP1081 Powells Pool SP1095 Wyndley SP1195

Classified Notes The sequence followed is that of the "British Birds " List of Birds of the Western Palearctic (1978) which follows Professor K H Voous' "List of Recent Holarctic Bird Species" (1977). The average arrival and departure dates given for migrants are based respectively on the first and last dates (excluding freaks) shown in the Annual Reports up to 1985. Figures in brackets denote the number of years on which the averages are based. In tables. — denotes no count available. See page 126 for key to contributors.

Red-throated Diver Warks Two at Draycote on January 19 and 20 AC, REH, PDH et at. with one remaining until February 8 AC. One at Shustoke on February 11 BLK was seen the following day at Coton SLC. Staffs One at Blithfield on February 14 and 15 ICW, AC. MDJ, was possibly the Coton bird. 32

Black-throated Diver Worcs One on the river at Upton-on-Severn from February 3 to 6 AGA, GHP, SMW.

Staffs One at Blithfield on February 14 and 15 ICW, AC, MDJ.

Warks Great Northern Diver One at Draycote on December 7 was joined by a second two days later, Staffs and remained until the end of the year ARD, GIG, PDH. W Mid One at Tittesworth from December 16 to 24 PGB, JPM et at. An immature present at Brierley Hill Pools from December 2 to the end of the year TAP et at. Little Grebe

Warks Bred at Alvecote, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Nether Whitacre and Newbold Comyn. A count of 20 at Hartshill Sewage Farm on January 21 was notable. Small numbers at Packington throughout the year. Worcs Bred at Bittell, Bredons Hardwick, Holt, Larford, Oakley, Upton Warren and Wilden. Staffs Bred at Branston, Doxey, Fisherwick, Ford Green, Kettlebrook and Wootton Lake. Numbers elsewhere were down on last year. W Mid Breeding noted at Edgbaston Park, , Sandwell Valley, Trittiford Mill and Witton Lakes. 33

Great Crested Grebe Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0

Aivecote e 12 21 20 16 17 18 19 21 16 8 5 Oraycote 120 220 too 40 60 — — — 2 3 5 60 Earlswood 1 0 28 34 38 14 — 36 30 28 18 0 Kingsbury 5 26 84 — — 25 — — 35 30 20 12 Packington 0 23 17 19 14 27 8 10 5 6 0

Bittell 3 14 27 15 10 9 12 11 9 11 8 4 Upton Warren 0 4 14 7 2 2 6 4 2 2 0 0

Aqualate 7 _ _ 6 8 18 2 Belvide 11 1 34 16 12 15 — — 27 31 11 4 Blithfield 164 25 107 30 20 — 131 70 127 10 105 79 Chasewater 13 4 17 12 8 6 13 8 14 10 8 5

Warks Up to six pairs bred at Seeswood, with breeding also noted at Compton Verney, Earlswood, Middleton Hall and Shustoke. One at Hartshill on February 26 was the first record for the locality. Worcs Bred at Bittell, Kidderminster and Upton Warren and seen in the breeding season at Bredons Hardwick, Kyre and Wilden (did not nest). Maximum of 10 at Westwood. Staffs Bred at Belvide, Blithfield (where 30 young were noted), Branston, Chillington, Churchbridge, Doxey, Fatholme, Himley, Tixall and Trentham. W Mid Nested at Brierley Hill Pools (three pairs, but only two young), Edgbaston Park, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park, Swanshurst Park and Trittiford Park. Maxima of 23 at Edgbaston Reservoir on March 1 and up to four at Bartley.

Red-necked Grebe Quite a good influx coinciding witn exceptionally cold weather on the Continent. Warks One at Draycote from January 10 to 19 RRH, AC, REH, PDH and three on February 16 and 17, with one remaining until February 23 ARD, PDH. Staffs One at Blithfield from January 14 to February 3 JPM, KRS et at. W Mid One at Bartley from January 19 to February 9 JHS, DR et al. could possibly have been the Draycote bird.

Slavonian Grebe Worcs One on the River Stour near Wilden from January 20 to 22 RRH, GHP, WRHP. Staffs Singles at Blithfield from March 17 to 26 MJE, JCE-D et al. and on October 20 several observers. The following day one was seen at Chasewater and remained until October 27 JSB et al. 34

Black-necked Grebe . Worcs An adult in breeding plumage at Westwood on March 29 and 30 SMW, AFJ, GDL. Staffs Two at Chasewater on January 29 RH, GE, two at Belvide on June 19 and 20 SPT, KA followed by one from August 12 to 28 SJ, JSB et al.

Fulmar Warks One at Draycote on July 20 ARD, PJR was the first ever July record for the region.

Manx Shearwater An unprecedented six records which coincided with a national influx of exhausted birds inland. Warks One at Newbold Comyn on September 6 EJB. Worcs One at Shrawley on September 17 per SMW. Staffs One at Belvide on August 23 KRS, an oiled bird at Yoxall on August 29 GH, DWE, one at Hanley on September 3 GH, DWE and one at Blithfield on September 15 several observers.

Leach's Petrel Staffs One paid a brief visit to Chasewater on the afternoon of September 20 RJ.

Gannet

Worcs A juvenile over Wilden on October 22 RM.

Cormorant Warks A flock of 18 over Draycote on December 27. A maximum of six at Kingsbury, where recorded in seven months of the year, and smaller numbers noted at Alvecote, Ladywalk, Seeswood and Shustoke. Worcs Probably some 20 birds along the Rivers Severn and Avon in winter RM, with up to nine near Ripple in January and February, eight on the Lower Avon Meadows on December 23 and up to six at Bredons Hardwick on October 27. Seen in smaller numbers at Bittell, Fladbury, Grimley, Holt Fleet, Larford, Pirton, Puckrup, Ribbesford, Shrawley, Strensham, Trimpley, Twyning, Upton Warren and Westwood. Staffs Monthly maxima: J F M A M J J A S 0 N D

Aqualate 7 17 12 12 Belvide 9 14 5 11 5 0 0 1 4 6 10 7 Blithfield 4B 60 122 40 14 9 10 B 50 50 60 45 Chillington 3 0 0 0 2 1 1 4 5 7 6 Clay Mills 15 18 12 6 2 0 — 1 4 5 24 35

Maxima of 152 at Kings Bromley on January 13 and 20, and 151 on February 17. Other notable counts were 105 at Branston on February 17, 67 over Alrewas on the same day, 19 over Doxey on October 24 and 16 at Chasewater on January 5 and 6. Also noted at Borrowpit, Copmere, Dosthill and Wootton Lake. W Mid Singles at Bartley on March 16, April 3, August 6 and September 20; three over Sutton Park on April 15 and one on August 30; three in the Sandwell Valley on May 4, with singles on May 13 and October 2; and one at Tividale on October 19.

Shag Worcs One at Lower Moor on May 7 PS.

1984 Corrigendum W Mid One at Brierley Hill Pools on November 19 LSA, GA.

1984 Addendum Bittern

Staffs Present at Doxey from February 3 to March 22 MC.

Grey Heron Warks At Ragley, 16 pairs raised over 30 young and seven or eight pairs bred near Draycote, but no counts were received from Coombe or Wootton Wawen. A maximum of 29 at Ladywalk on July 17 was a locality record. Other maxima of note were 27 near Ragley on March 12, 14 at Kingsbury on August 13, 14 at Coton on July 29 and 13 at Earlswood on May 16. Worcs At Grimley there were 30 occupied nests and a winter maximum of 20 on February 5. The maximum at Bittell was seven on December 18. Staffs 227 occupied nests was the highest ever total, with 43 at Aqualate, 80 at Bagots Wood, 10 at Chillington, 11 at Enville, 32 at Gailey, 20 at Longsdon Wood, 22 in south east Staffs, three at Eccleshall Castle and six at Trentham. Maxima of note were 20 at Blithfield on August 22 and 11 at Belvide on August 30. W Mid Up to seven in the Sandwell Valley, six at Tividale on June 15, six at Stubbers Green on July 13 and five at Edgbaston Park on July 25. One at Willenhall Memorial Park in November was a first record for the area. Little Egret Warks One at Coton on May 20 and 21 SMH et at. was only the second record for the county and the fourth record for the region this century. -- A small, slender, all-white heron with head plumes and aigrettes. About two-thirds the size of a Grey Heron. Dagger-like bill and legs black, feet paler with a hint of yellow. 36

Black Stork Staffs One over Coombes Valley on June 2 KM was only the second county . record, closely following the first which was in the same area in 1983, and the third for the region. About Grey Heron size, with similar wing beats, but neck was held outstretched. Bill and legs red, wings and upper parts black, underparts black with a large white inverted triangle extending from the belly to the undertail coverts.

Mute Swan Breeding only reported from 11 sites, with moderate successes. Staffordshire survey of 1983 showed 60 nests and 43 young. Monthly maxima at selected waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D

Alvecote 12 13 14 17 29 91 119 14B 76 24 12 27 Kingsbury 11 13 4 — — 39 21 — 25 20 18 30

Belvide 2 0 5 2 12 33 36 34 24 13 3 7 Blithfield 2 — — — 35 49 57 51 — — _ Chasewater 17 5 4 5 3 7 11 13 IB 23 24 30 Trenthsm 14 13 6 3 2 1 — Westport 24 18 12 21 27

Wyken Slough 2 2 2 9 7 11 22

Warks Up to seven at Middleton Hall and five at Seeswood. A brood of five cygnets at Nether Whitacre included one 'Polish' phase. Worcs Maxima of 20 at Twyning on January 23 and 19 at Larford on December 24. Staffs A notable count of 44 near Tamworth on February 23. W Mid 19 in the Sandwell Valley in November and 10 on a north of Walsall on September 10 were the only notable numbers. There were no birds at all noted on Bracebridge or Blackroot Pools, Sutton Park.

Bewick's Swan Warks There were 11 at Draycote on January 5, 14 at Kingsbury on January 6 which were also seen at Alvecote and Lea Marston, two at Shustoke from January 1 5 to 21, and eight at Kingsbury on January 19, followed by three on February 2 and 3. In autumn two at Kingsbury on November 17 built up to 10 on the following day, which then remained until November 23. Four at Draycote on November 20. Worcs Excellent winter numbers at Bredons Hardwick, with a January maximum of 100, 156 on February 3 and 142 on March 24. Other records were 29 at Bittell on January 9 followed by 33 on March 8, 15 adults near Naunton on January 25, two at Puckrup on February 10, 14 near Bromsgrove on March 2, three at Hartlebury on March 8 and an immature at Larford from February 23 to April 16. The only autumn records came from Bredons Hardwick, where one on October 27 and 26 on December 28. 37

Staffs Numbers were once again very much down on recent years, with 14 at Belvide from January 23 to 30 of which 12 remained until February 16, and two at Westport on March 7 the only winter records. In autumn two at Chasewater on October 24 followed by seven on November 22, and singles at Belvide on October 30 and Blithfield on October 27 and November 9. W Mid One in the Sandwell Valley on October 29 and one at Bradnocks Marsh on December 8, building up to six by December 27.

1983 Addendum Staffs Four at Burton on November 14.

Whooper Swan Warks Three at Brandon on February 3 DJS. Worcs One at Bredons Hardwick from February 1 to 10 GHP, REH, MJI, SMW. Staffs Numbers once again down in the north of the county, with just four at Tittesworth on January 5 PGB followed by three on December 28 and 29 NR. PGB. Two at Chasewater on October 28, with one remaining to the end of the year GE, ICW et at., and a further three which paid a brief visit on November 11 JPW.

Wild Swan Staffs All records refer to birds flying over Chasewater: five on January 6, five on January 20, two on February 25 and three on October 20.

Pink-footed Goose Worcs One with Canadas at Bredons Hardwick on October 27. Staffs Two parties totalling 140 flew over Blithfield on January 15 JCE-D and a similar number flew over the Sudbury area on November 24 NR. when there was also one at Tittesworth PGB. One at Rocester on December 27 NR.

White-fronted Goose Warks At Draycote, 20 flew over on December 1 JHS. Two adults and an immature were at Coton and Kingsbury on December 29 before moving into Staffordshire. Worcs Singles at Upton Warren on January 2, Holt on January 5 and 6 GDL, RM, Arrow Valley Lake on February 22 RFEB and Wyre Piddle on March 19 GHP. A good autumn series at Bredons Hardwick, with 1 3 on December 14 AFJ, 14 the next day AHT, KHT and 52 flying over on December 29 PS, PFW. Staffs At Blithfield two immatures on January 14 JPM, 150 over the next day JCE-D, then singles on January 18 ICW, MDJ. December 1 MJE, JCE- D and December 29 and 30 MJI, NR. Seven at Belvide from January 4 to 25 ICW, MDJ, one on March 12 GP and five on December 1 SJ; a single at Doxey on February 2 MDB, MC. 38

Lesser White-fronted Goose Staffs A feral bird at Branston between May 31 and June 2 TC.

Greylag Goose Warks Good numbers at Kingsbury again, with a maximum of 50 on September 23, and at Packington, where 41 (including 1 5 juveniles) in June and 45 in August. 45 were also noted at Ladywalk on October 7. Two at Seeswood on April 8 and one at Ryton on April 30. Worcs Two at Wyre Piddle on February 23, with singles at Bredons Hardwick, Lai fuid, Puuki up, and Westwood. Staffs Eight at Tittesworth on November 3 and singles at Belvide on six dates. W Mid One in the Sandwell Valley on March 1.

Snow Goose All feral birds. Warks One at Ladywalk on April 30. Worcs One at Holt on January 5, one over Bredon on March 30, two at Larford on May 22, up to four at Bittell in August and September and singles at Westwood on three dates. Staffs Up to five noted at Belvide, where present in January, April, August and December. W Mid Singles at Edgbaston Reservoir from January 22 to 25 and Cotwall End Nature Centre from June 9 to 12.

1984 Corrigendum Staffs Present at Belvide for six months of the year, with a maximum of six on September 29, nof Blithfield.

Canada Goose Monthly maxima at principal waters:

M

Alveeote — 3 — 3 4 — — — ? - 41 4B Chesterton 164 205 125 — — — — — 375 258 181 68 Kingsbury 355 264 187 60 — 100 60 — 320 200 300 139 Packinglon — 63 69 65 94 69 27 73 102 0 0 0 Seeswood 84 — — — 912 — 62 — — — —

Bittell 120 85 6 — 12 30 37 250 512 500 172 230 Upton Warren 0 46 46 15 38 74 74 0 1 0 2 0

Aquataie 402 592 250 250 124 157 195 Belvide 223 120 18 16 37 54 44 25 17 33 103 92 Blithlield 730 669 16 — — — — — — — 450 450 Doxey 30 73 62 24 21 32 2 42 43 64 40 142 Kings Bromley 34 177 223 — — 260 — — — — — — Tillesworlh 155 127 72 44 65 58 39

Warks 42 young in the Kingsbury area on May 26. Noted at Draycote, Hartshill and Shustoke where occurrences are unusual. 226 at Warwick on January 13. Worcs Maxima of note were 156 at Holt on January 25, 234 at Wyre Piddle on February 24 and 200 at Westwood on November 2. Breeding noted at Abberton, Bittell. Bredons Hardwick, Holt, Grimley, Kyre Pool, New Pool and Shrawley. One of the smaller races was seen at Holt, Larford and Upton Warren during January to April. Staffs Bred at Belvide, Doxey, Elford and Trentham. The January count of 730 at Blithfield was a regional record. Other maxima of 53 at Ridware Hall in January and 111 at Tixall on December 26. A bird of the race minima was at Blithfield from November 24 to December 26. W Mid Breeding noted at Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Walsall Arboretum. Maxima of note were 156 at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 30, 132 in Sandwell Valley on January 5 and 75 near Hampton-in-Arden on November 8.

Barnacle Goose All feral unless otherwise stated. Warks One at Earlswood on March 6. Worcs The 46 birds at Bittell from 1984 remained until mid February many observers and 67 returned on November 16 to stay until the year end many observers. After consultation with the Wildfowl Trust these are considered to be wild birds. 26 at Upton Warren on November 12 were also probably wild. Otherwise ones and twos were noted at Abberton, Arrow Valley Lake, Grimley, Holt, Westwood and Wyre Piddle. Staffs A party of 37 at Belvide from November 13 to 15 tied in with Worcestershire records and were thus presumably wild birds. Singles at Aqualate, Belvide, Brancote, Branston and Doxey. W Mid Up to two in Sandwell Valley and singles at Edgbaston Reservoir, Sutton Park and Walsall Arboretum.

1984 Addendum Staffs A party of 15 over Kinver Edge on December 15 were probably wild. W Mid One at Tudor Grange, Solihull, on January 29.

Brent Goose Warks One at Kingsbury on March 13 MAA, HCM, and two of the dark-bellied race at Draycote on November 18 PDH, SP, CHP. Staffs An immature dark-bellied bird at Blithfield from October 20 to the end of the year many observers, and another immature on November 23 and 24 MJE, PDH, NR.

Egyptian Goose Staffs One at Branston in January, September and October, and one at Hollybush Lake on October 27. W Mid Singles at Edgbaston Park on January 4 and June 15. 40

Ruddy Shelduck Worcs Five at Holt from September 15 to October 5 AFJ, GDL, JHS.

Shelduck Monthly maxima at selected waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D

Alvecote 10 11 9 5 5 7 5 6 3 1 Draycote 2 1 — 5 — — — — — — 6 13 Kingsbury 4 5 5 6 6 20 12 — 2 1 — 1

bitten i 1 7 / Upton Warren 3 — 1 2 — — — — — —

Belvide 0 4 4 8 8 4 0 1 3 2 0 0 Blithfield 1 3 10 19 5 7 5 Chasewater 1 — 1 — 8 — 8 16 1 8 —

Warks At least three pairs bred in the Kingsbury area and 16 young were noted in June. Up to six at Ladywalk, two at Earlswood on April 24 and three at Seeswood on the following day. Worcs Up to eight at Bredons Hardwick in February, four at Puckrup in April and up to six at Westwood in May. Singles at Beckford, Holt and Larford. Staffs Bred at Belvide for the first time, and also at Clay Mills. Also seen at Branston, Chillington, Churchbridge, Colwich, Croxall, Fisherwick, Kings Bromley, Mill Green Park, Rudyard and Tittesworth. W Mid Four at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 27 and four at Stubbers Green on March 18, with smaller numbers at Bartley, Brierley Hill Pools, Sneyd Reservoir and Tividale.

Mandarin Warks Four at Coombe Abbey on March 24 and one at Draycote on September 25. Worcs A pair at Wyre Forest during the breeding season again. A drake at Upton Warren on February 13 and April 28, a pair at Bredons Hardwick on February 24 and a drake at Bittell on March 1, 3 and April 26. Staffs A drake at Blithfield from October 6 to December 26 was joined by a second drake from November 15 to 23. A drake at Belvide on December 28. W Mid A duck in the Sandwell Valley on February 16 was the first record for the area.

Wigeon Average: August 22 (47) to May 4 (50) One or two reported until mid-May and last seen at Lower Moor on May 26. First returned on August 4, at Kingsbury, with a gradual arrival thereafter. Exceptional numbers in January when much of the Continent was frozen solid. 41

Monthly maxima at selected waters:

J F M A A S 0 N D

Alvecote 175 84 60 _ 5 12 30 5 HrayrnfA 110(1 650 150 — — — 150 241 Kingsbury 38 20 4 6 3 7 4 4 12 Ladywalk 256 200 105 0 3 — 9 60 60

Aqualate 23 150 13 _ _ 3 2 40 10 Belvide 188 54 65 20 1 7 27 4B 70 Bliihfield 1530 1250 832 — 3 8 17 — 1100 Titteswonh 294 251 247 33 1 14 64 135 232 irks Up to three summered at Kingsbury. 256 at Ladywalk on January 28 and 1100 at Draycote in January were locality records. Other maxima of note were 260 at Shustoke on January 15 and 40 at Coton on December 27. Smaller numbers at Earlswood, Hartshill and Seeswood. jrcs Winter maxima of note were an unprecedented 206 at Bittell on January 5, 220 at Twyning on January 23, 100 at Pirton on January 30, 500 at Bredons Hardwick on February 23, 250 in the Lower Avon Valley on the same day, 200 at Ripple on February 24, 80 at Pirton on March 3 and 100 at Puckrup on March 24. Smaller numbers at Eckington, Grimley, Holt, Larford, Lower Moor, Upton-on-Severn, Upton Warren and Westwood. Fewer in autumn, but 200 in the Lower Avon Valley on December 26. sffs A drake summered at Tittesworth. Exceptional counts of 188 at Belvide on January 12, 45 at Chasewater on January 5, 103 at Kings Bromley on March 17, 59 at Rudyard on November 2, 45 at Doxey on December 23 and 50 at Tixall on December 26. Smaller numbers at Betley Mere,. Borrowpit, Clay Mills and Westport. Mid Maxima of note were 26 in Sandwell Valley on January 8 and 9, 30 at Bartley on January 10 and 72 at Bradnock's Marsh on December 8. Smaller numbers at Brierley Hill Pools, Edgbaston Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hampton-in-Arden, Sutton Park and Tividale.

American Wigeon A drake at Kingsbury on June 15 moved on to Ladywalk from June 16 to 19 and was finally seen at Coton on June 22 JEF et at. This was the first record for the region. Size and shape similar to European Wigeon, but generally browner in appearance. Bill grey with black tip; forehead cream and a dark green ocular patch extended to the nape, with the rest of the head and neck speckled grey. Breast warm, pinkish-buff and slightly blotched, increasing towards the slightly browner flanks. Back grey brown, tinged pink. Underparts white, extending to black undertail coverts; rump white. Flight feathers black with a slight green speculum. 42

Gadwall Monthly maxima at selected waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N 0

Draycole 17 6 24 12 Kingsbury 20 21 3 3 2 1 — 4 2 3 4 e Ladywalk 3 2 16 5 7 2 7 1 3 4 23

Pirton 3 10 10 2 13 1 Westwood 3 7 8 4 4 1 — — — a 4

Belvide 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 BlliliflulcJ J 2 I — — — — 1 4 — —

Warks Single pairs bred at Coton and Ladywalk. Noted in small numbers at Alvecote, Brandon, Seeswood and Stoneleigh. Worcs Seven at Upton Warren on November 15, 23 at Pirton on December 7, and smaller numbers at Bittell, Bredons Hardwick, Grimley, Larford, Ripple and Twyning. Staffs Numbers were generally low, with one or two at Aqualate, Chasewater, Chillington, Fisherwick and Tittesworth. W Mid A female in Sutton Park on January 25, one at Wyken Slough from September 15 into December, seven at Bradnocks Marsh on November 24, up to two in the Sandwell Valley and two immatures at Netherton on November 30.

Teal Monthly maxima at selected waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N 0

Alvecote 134 110 72 26 4 12 110 130 220 105 Brandon 120 100 185 30 — — 2 — 105 110 125 80 Kingsbury 321 287 47 — — — — — 15 25 200 300 Ladywalk 460 180 23 40 — — — — 57 40 150 655 Middleton 65 — 20 5 70 40 175

Bittell 47 39 37 6 _ 2 263 19 70 Upton Warren 10 53 45 25 0 4 1 24 60 75 65 46

Aqualate 7 8 11 _ _ _ — _ 12 12 83 18 Belvide 72 25 35 10 2 4 2 15 101 107 119 55 Blithfield 600 210 156 — — — — 120 250 375 400 300 Doxey 58 110 20 12 4 2 4 6 10 47 80 100 Tittesworth 57 31 18 - — . — — — 23 60 70 51

Sandwell Valley 134 120 25 8 1 0 0 0 7 28 51 80 Tividale . 18 18 10 2 0 0 0 1 8 4 10 20 43

Warks A maximum of 80 at Draycote on December 15. Also seen at Earlswood, Hartshill, Packington, Seeswood and Shustoke (75 on November 17). Worcs Maxima of note were 300 near Ripple on January 27, 130 at Puckrup on February 6, 245 near Bredons Hardwick in February, 80 at Larford on March 31, 75 at Strensham on November 13, 90 at Grimley on December 6, 390 at Ripple on December 21 and 63 at Holt the next day. Also noted at Crowle, Lower Moor, Pirton and Westwood. Staffs Bred at Doxey and six pairs located on the Moors, mostly at Goldsitch Moss. 44 at Chasewater on December 15 was a locality record; other notable maxima were 65 at Kings Bromley in January, 100 at Trentham on December 16 and 67 at Astonefields on December 28. W Mid Small numbers at Bartley, Edgbaston Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Sutton Park and Woodgate Valley.

Mallard Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D

Alvocoto 170 81 77 31 65 80 02 122 210 210 165 215 Draycote — 300 170 290 328 545 Kingsbury 264 321 57 100 180 125 150 Ladywalk 600 310 50 430 420 350 250 Middlelon 160 15 10 — 9 16 — 40 100 150 175 Packington — 97 61 34 J1 91 77 132 77 45 26 99 Shustoke 11 47 34 33 46 75 92

Bittell 46 32 57 30 44 73 75 245 263 260 260 Lartord 133 — — — 56 55 107 — 217 — — — Upton Warren 158 90 20 18 24 10 121 191 250 157 147 164

Westwood 80 — — — — - — 106 125 — — —

Aqualate 625 896 80 800 470 684 1041 Belvide 551 366 200 1231 1190 945 767 Blithfield 500 551 304 — — — — — 1300 — — — Chasewater 138 91 20 8 18 4 6 26 75 143 160 140 Doxey 170 47 27 24 40 48 40 38 105 140 120 24 Kings Bromley 377 159 32 Trentham 205 11 45 — — — 130 — 183 207 120 260

Edgbaston Reservoir 250 114 65 Sutton Park 192 113 210 112 203 175

Warks Four broods at Earlswood, six at Ladywalk and also bred at Middleton and Seeswood. Counts of 149 at Seeswood on January 10 and 350 at Chesterton on January 13 were worthy of note. Worcs Breeding records included an estimated 40 pairs in the Bredon area, one brood at Bittell, four at Bredons Hardwick, one at Holt, three at Larford, two at Puckrup, eight at Upton Warren and three at Westwood. Notable counts included 246 at Beckford on January 9, and 110 at Diglis on February 19. At least 31 pairs on the Moors. Three broods at Blithfield, 20 at Doxey, four at Hanchurch, and six at Trentham. Also bred at Belvide and Kettlebrook. Maxima of 251 at Tittesworth on February 17 and 160 at Chasewater on November 7, which was a locality record. Bred at Hayhead Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Walsall Arboretum. Maxima of note were 164 at Trittiford Mill Park in February, 107 in Sandwell Valley in December and 26 at Willenhall Memorial Park.

Pintail Average: September 4 (41) to April 19 (46) Last seen at Bredons Hardwick on May 2. Returned to Tividale on August 4. Exceptional numbers in February and March following the severe weather experienced on the Continent. Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D

Brandon 4 2 Colon 1 2 3

Kingsbury 1 - - - - - 4 2 Ladywalk 3 1 1 2 3

Puckrup 48 22 Ripple 13 35 110

Belvide 4 2 - - 2 3 2 2 - Blithfield 2 4 1 1 4 14 2 3

Warks A duck at Draycote on January 1 and another at Alvecote on October 12 which was followed by two drakes on October 26. Worcs 110 near Ripple on March 3 RM was a regional record. Ones and twos at Upton Warren in January, March, October, November and December; a drake at Holt Fleet from February 5 to 20; a duck at Bittell on February 10, followed by a drake from February 23 to 27 and a duck on December 14; a drake at Bredons Hardwick on February 10, with two on February 23 and a duck on May 2; a drake near Pershore on February 25 and two at Westwood the same day; a pair at Grimley on March 3; a drake at Holt on March 10 and a drake at Larford on March 30. Staffs Four at Tittesworth on January 5, one on January 12 and February 17 and two on March 1 7. A drake and two ducks at Chasewater on January 31, three at Westport on September 25, a duck at Chillington on October 12 and a drake at Clay Mills on November 10. W Mid A duck at Brierley Hill Pools on February 5; a duck in Sandwell Valley from February 8 to March 1, followed by a drake on October 19; and a duck at Tividale from August 4 to 8, followed by a drake on November 21. 45

Garganey Average: April 2 (42) to September 27 (41) A very typical arrival and departure, with the first on April 5 at Oakley and the last on September 28 at Blithfield. Warks Two drakes and a duck at Brandon from July 2 to 7, followed by a drake in eclipse plumage on September 7. Worcs A drake at Oakley on April 5, a duck at Upton Warren on April 20 followed by a drake on May 1 3 and a duck at Bredons Hardwick on April 25. One at Holt on September 16. Staffs Drakes were at Blithfield from April 17 to 27, on May 19 and from July 31 to August 28. The latter was joined by a duck from August 6 to 15 and two were seen on September 28. Belvide held a drake on April 28, a pair from May 26 to June 21 with presumably the same duck still present on June 30, two drakes from August 4 to 10 with one still present until August 25, and another which paid a brief visit on August 20.

Shoveler Fewer than usual in the winter freeze. Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D

Alvecote 5 _ 2 _ 2 24 20 30 5 Kingsbury 47 30 42 — — — — — 25 20 10 5

Ladywalk - 10 37 — 8 6 — 50 105 40 80 100

Upton Warren 4 8 21 4 3 4 1 15 24 31 31 25 Westwood — 15 2 10 31

Aqualate 13 10 10 2 3 14 Belvide 30 8 21 28 4 22 — 100 291 142 99 30 Blilhfield 1 4 10 — — — — — 34 — —

Warks Breeding suspected at two sites. 105 at Ladywalk on September 5 was a locality record. Also noted at Astley, Brandon, Coton, Draycote, Hartshill, Kingsbury, Middleton and Seeswood. Worcs A pair at Oakley in spring, but no evidence of breeding. Eight drakes at Larford on June 2. Also seen at Bittell, Bredons Hardwick, Eckington, Grimley, Oakley, Puckrup and Wilden (maximum of 15 in September). Staffs Up to 11 at Kettlebrook in February. Also noted at Chasewater, Croxall, Tamworth and Tittesworth. W Mid Up to 13 in Sutton Park, with smaller numbers at Bartley, Edgbaston Park, Netherton, Sandwell Valley and Willenhall Memorial Park. 46

Red-crested Pochard Warks An eclipse drake at Kingsbury on August 25 ARD, JAA was followed by a duck/immature on September 8 JSB, ARD. GIG. Staffs A drake at Belvide on February 5 DJH. W Mid A duck in the Sandwell Valley from October 15 to November 2 AJK.

Pochard Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A V J J A s 0 N 0

Alvecote 216 250 129 14 10 15 9 8 11 27 68 115 Kingsbury 1550 1235 125 — — 2 — — 25 200 600 1000

Biliell 37 27 28 _ _ 2 _ 11 14 16 14 Upton Warren 46 35 18 3 1 0 2 e 3 16 30 59 Westwood 140 160 64 24 31

Belvide 5 16 150 7 9 27 30 42 90 116 85 Blilhfield 100 28 14 — — — 2 30 — — — Chasewater 57 22 11 0 0 0 0 0 8 26 51 16 Tittesworth 322 183 5B 9 — — — — 4 17 46 51

Hydes Road Pool 19 20 _ 11 1 27 Sandwell Valley 165 72 49 1 Q 0 0 0 35 65 95

Warks Five broods at Alvecote. A maximum of 90 at Draycote on January 6, with smaller numbers at Earlswood, Hartshill, Middleton, Packington and Seeswood. Worcs Bred at Oakley. Counts of 115 at Wilden on January 20 and 50 on the Lower Severn on February 16, with smaller numbers at Beckford, Bredons Hardwick, Diglis, Grimley, Holt, Larford, Pirton, Puckrup, Stanford Court and Wyre Mill. Staffs No breeding reported. Maxima of 44 at Kings Bromley in January, 215 at Rudyard on February 9 and 125 at Westport on February 17. Smaller numbers at Borrowpit, Churchbridge, Himley, Kettlebrook and Tamworth. W Mid 47 at Edgbaston Park on December 1 5 was unusual. Smaller numbers were at Bartley, Edgbaston Reservoir and Sutton Park.

Pochard hybrids A Pochard x Tufted drake in Sandwell Valley in May and June and one at Brierley Hill Pools in October and November. Pochard x Ferruginous were seen at Draycote on January 27, and Belvide on February 2 and again from March 6 to 27. 47

Tufted Duck Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N 0

Alvecote 251 258 123 85 22 28 37 33 43 81 59 111 Draycote 650 120 200 470 400 Kingsbury 1250 959 331 250 750 1100 850 Ladywalk 80 270 36 5 — 8 40

Bittell 72 67 48 40 25 27 39 61 80 70 105 105 Upton Warren 0 4 36 40 8 6 29 12 14 10 20 9

Aqualate 17 67 112 _ _ 3 48 111 Belvide 39 44 200 43 70 121 — 90 189 175 332 106 Blithfield 49 4 81 80 — 108 — — 72 — — — Chasewater 376 188 142 63 13 2 2 7 173 211 191 255

Westport 111 282 44 — - — — 25 37 — 118

Netherton 72 63 42 2 19 - 30

Warks Breeding reported from Alvecote, where 11 broods produced 53 young; Brandon, where one brood; and Kingsbury, where eight broods totalled 44 young. Maxima of note were 126 at Shustoke on January 27, 125 at Hartshill on February 13 and 144 at Shustoke in October. Worcs Breeding noted at Bittell, Bredons Hardwick, Holt, Larford and Westwood, where there was a maximum count of 64 on February 1. Did not breed at Oakley. Up to 30 on the Lower Severn in late February. Staffs Breeding noted at Belvide, where 13 broods totalled 82 young; Blithfield; Branston (a brood of five); Doxey (five pairs); Ford Green (two broods); and Ranton Estate (two pairs). Maxima of 110 at Trentham on January 16, 152 at Tittesworth on January 19 and 196 at Kings Bromley on January 20. W Mid Five broods totalled 30 young at Bradnocks Marsh and five pairs nested in the Sandwell Valley, where a maximum of 108 occurred in February.

Scaup An excellent year. Warks A good series from the Tame Valley, with two immatures at Lea Marston on January 12 building up to six on February 10; presumably the same birds at Ladywalk on February 3; and two immatures at Kingsbury on March 24, one of which remained until April 6. An immature/female returned to the area on November 16 and was last seen on December 15. Two immatures were at Draycote from December 19 to 29. Worcs A drake at Ripple on January 27; two at Bredons Hardwick on January 31 followed by a drake on February 6, with presumably the same bird on the Lower Avon on February 22; a drake at Westwood from March 19 to April 5, when it or another visited Upton Warren; and a drake at 48

Ribbesford on March 24. In autumn, a drake at Westwood from November 2 to 9 and on Dcccmber 30. Staffs An immature drake at Chasewater on January 12, another from February 3 to 10, two drakes and a duck from April 26 to 28, a drake the following day which was joined by a pair on April 30 that stayed until May 20, a drake on September 18 and an immature drake from December 12 to the end of the year. Two drakes at Blithfield on January 15, a drake on March 10, up to five immatures between November 1 and 24 and an immature from December 1 to 10. An immature duck at Tittesworth on January 19, two immatures from November 30 to December 1 with one present to the year end; a drake at Rudyard on February 2 and an immature drake on December 16; a drake at Belvide on March 31, followed by a duck from May 4 to 21 and a pair on November 19; a drake at Clay Mills on June 23; and a drake at Gailey on July 5. W Mid At Netherton a duck from January 10 to 28, with another duck on January 19 and an immature drake from February 13 to March 7. At Bartley one on January 11 and five the following day, with two still present on January 19 and one remaining until February 22, then an immature drake on November 28 and 30. An immature drake at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 12 was joined by an adult pair on the following day, while an immature drake in Sandwell Valley from January 13 to February 27 was joined by a duck on February 19, 20 and 27. A duck at Brierley Hill Pools on February 2 was followed by an immature drake on March 9; and a duck was in Sutton Park on February 12.

Long-tailed Duck Warks A duck at Draycote from December 7 to the end of the year PDH, ARD, GIG.

W Mid An immature duck at Berkswell from November 10 to 24 ARD.

Common Scoter Warks All records relate to Draycote, where the duck from 1984 was present until January 26, a duck was seen on April 7, a pair on April 12, a drake on September 28, a duck and three immatures on October 19 and two ducks on November 16. Worcs A duck or immature at Puckrup on April 10. Drakes at Upton Warren on September 19 and Wilden from September 21 to 26. A duck at Bittell on October 1 5, followed by four drakes and six ducks at Upton Warren the next day. Finally a duck at Upton Warren from November 12 to 14, which presumably moved to Westwood the following day and remained until November 23. Staffs Two drakes at Tittesworth on April 8, then an impressive series of records from Chasewater which began with 11 drakes on June 30, 49

followed by a duck/immature on October 19; another duck/immature from November 7 was then joined by two others on November 9 building up to 14 ducks/immatures on November 15 with two still present on November 28; finally a duck/immature was present on December 6 and 12. An immature was at Belvide on June 30, one on October 19 and one on December 3, while a duck visited Westport on July 17. At Blithfield a drake on August 6 was followed by a duck on August 18 and 19, a drake on August 27 and three drakes on September 9. Lastly a pair was at Aqualate on October 20. W Mid Three drakes and a duck at Bartley on September 25 and a drake in Sandwell Valley on October 23.

Velvet Scoter Warks A duck at Draycote from April 20 to 28 ARD, GIG, PDH and four immatures from November 23 to December 25, with one staying until the end of the year AC, ARD, GIG, REH, PDH. A duck/immature at Shustoke from November 25 to 30 BLK. Worcs An immature drake at Wilden from November 9 AFJ to 12 RM.

Goldeneye Average: September 20 (45) to May 7 (43) Several reports until mid-May and last seen at Belvide on May 24, apart from the summering bird at Kingsbury. Late returning, with none before October 14 (at Bittell), after which there was a steady influx. Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N 0

Draycote 100 65 30 5 50 70 Kingsbury 56 64 52 3 2 1 1 1 1 3 17 20

Bittell 5 7 12 7 3 - - - 6 6 5

Belvide 16 38 54 53 1 0 0 0 0 12 29 54 Blithfield 20 89 43 25 10 0 0 0 0 6 10 20 Chasewater 72 71 84 66 0 0 0 0 0 14 30 63

Banley 6 8 3 4 1 - - - - 2 3 7

Warks A maximum of 60 at Shustoke on January 20, with smaller numbers at Alvecote, Earlswood, Hartshill, Ladywalk and Seeswood. Worcs Small numbers at Bredons Hardwick, Grimley, Larford, Lower Severn, Malvern, Pirton, Puckrup, Stanford Court, Westwood, Wilden and Worcester. Staffs Maxima of 27 at Kings Bromley in January and 64 at Branston in February. Smaller numbers at Aqualate, Chillington, Clay Mills, Dosthill, Tittesworth and Westport. W Mid Small numbers in Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and at Tividale. 50

Smew An excellent series of records, all redheads unless otherwise stated. Warks Two drakes at Draycote on January 10 RRH building up to four drakes and four redheads by January 26. with the last bird still present on March 10 many observers; then in autumn one from November 30 to December 14 AC, PDH and two from December 26 to the end of the year REH, PDH — in all up to 14 different birds. Two drakes at Shustoke on January 20 SMH, three drakes and a redhead at Brandon on January 27 CHP, SP (probably the Draycote birds), and one at Lea Marston from February 14 to 17 BLK et al. Worcs An incredible report of 14 at Twyning on January 22 with seven on the following day. Then singles at Larford on January 26 MJI, Westwood on February 12 SMW, Arrow Valley Lake on February 22 RFEB, Bredons Hardwick on February 23 SMW, and Wyre Piddle on the same day GHP, with the same bird at Wyre Mill on February 25 SMW. Staffs Two at Chasewater from January 29 to February 2 GE et al. W Mid One at Bartley from February 13 to 21 JHB, SPR, ICW, SMW et al.

Red-breasted Merganser Warks The duck at Draycote from 1984 was joined by a drake on January 19 and both remained until February 2 many observers. Two drakes and a duck then followed on February 16 and though one drake left on February 23 a pair remained until March 9 AC, ARD, PDH et al. In the autumn an immature was present from October 19 to 27 ARD, PDH and two drakes and a duck on December 27 SMW. Staffs A drake at Blithfield on January 19 MJEwas followed by two ducks on February 15 AC, while a duck was seen at Belvide on October 25 GA.

Goosander Average: October 26 (41) to April 18 (38) One or two lingered well into May, with the last at Blithfield on May 22. Returned to Doxey on October 9, but the main influx did not begin until November. Monthly maxima at selected waters:

J F M A M s 0 N D

Dreycote 10 7 6 _ 2 2 Kingsbury 1 1 2 1 — — 1 5 Ladywalk 4 13 12 1 — — — —

Belvide 5 6 7 1 1 2 2 8 Bliihlield 102 120 105 30 1 1 32 46 Doxey B 5 8 0 0 0 1 8 2

i 51

Warks Notable counts of 10 at Shustoke on January 25 and seven at Brandon on January 27, with smaller numbers at Alvecote and Middleton Hall. Worcs Seven at Twyning on January 26, three at Frankley on February 17, one at Grimley on the same day, two on the Lower Severn on February 18, one at Bittell from March 1 to 5, and two at Bredons Hardwick on March 16, with one still present on March 27. One at Larford on November 30 and two at Bittell on December 29. Staffs A maximum of seven at Tittesworth in mid-December and four near Stafford on November 30 were notable. Smaller numbers at Borrowpit, Chasewater, Clay Mills, Gailey, Rudyard and Westport. W Mid One at Bartley on January 30 followed by an exceptional 12 on February 18, with singles at Netherton and Sandwell Valley in mid- January.

Ruddy Duck Monthly maxima at principal waters:

J F Ml A M J J A S 0 N D

AlYWte 0 0 24 11 9 10 9 15 9 5 4 1 Draycote 30 50 20 — — — — — — 7 2 Kingsbury 25 41 2 5 2 2 10

Bittell 1 0 5 6 6 6 3 2 1 Upton Warren 0 0 1 8 6 5 1 3 7 10 0 0 Westwood — 1 — — 7 2 — 4 — — 3

Aqualate 12 3 39 10 6 0 0 5 3 Belvide 14 130 241 211 29 11 — 90 320 306 21 5 Blithlield 680 113 114 20 — 4 11 80 170 96 — 581

Warks Four broods each at Alvecote and Middleton, totalling 17 and 11 young respectively. Elsewhere broods of eight at Chesterton, two at Earlswood, and six at Lea Marston. 122 at Lea Marston on February 23 was a county record. Smaller numbers at Brandon, Hartshill, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Leamington Spa, Packington and Seeswood. Worcs Three broods at Oakley. Small numbers at Bredons Hardwick, Frankley, Larford, Lower Moor, Pirton and Wilden. Staffs Three broods totalled 10 young at Belvide. Elsewhere broods of five at Aqualate and Newborough, one brood at Cannock and five pairs at Doxey. The count of 680 at Blithfield on January 17 JPM was the highest ever in Britain. Small numbers at Brocton, Chasewater, Chillington, Clay Mills, Doxey, Four Crosses, Greenway Bank, Hanchurch, Hatherton, Kings Bromley, Maer, Podmore Pool, Tittesworth, Westport and Wootton Lake. W Mid Bred at Edgbaston Park and Sutton Park. Small numbers at Bartley, Brierley Hill Pools, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hampton-in-Arden, Sandwell Valley, Stubbers Green and Walsall Arboretum. 52

Red Kite

Staffs One flew NW over Enville on November 10 ICW.

Marsh Harrier Warks An immature female flew through Ladywalk on March 25 and probably roosted at Nether Whitacre BLK. A female paused briefly at Coton on August 17 JAA. Staffs A female flew straight through Belvide on April 21 PD and another female was seen at Blithfield on May 4 FWW, RNW. An immature was at Middle Hills on August 19 PGB. 1983 Corrigendum Warks The female on May 22 was seen leaving Nether Whitacre not Ladywalk.

Hen Harrier Warks A male at Ladywalk on October 23 was later seen going into roost at Kingsbury BLK. Staffs A ring-tail at Middle Hills on November 2 PGB. W Mid A ring-tail at Sandwell Valley on November 25 ADW, PAF, PMH.

Goshawk Warks Reported only from one northern locality — a single bird in November. Worcs A pair seen displaying at a northern locality and one reported during the breeding season at a western site. Single birds seen at an eastern site in January and another northern locality in October. Staffs At least two pairs nested successfully in the north of the county, but no birds were seen at a third site where nesting had occurred in the previous two years.

Sparrowhawk Continues to be widespread in all areas. Several noted in pursuit or capture of Stock and Collared Doves, Fieldfare and Redwing. Warks Noted at 10 localities in the breeding season and a further 14 at other times, which was about the same as the previous year. Surely under- reported. Worcs Reported from 40 localities during the breeding season and from a further 30 at other times, which is slightly more than last year. At least four visited a huge Fieldfare roost at Longley Green in January. Staffs Far fewer reports again this year, with just 16 records during the breeding season and only 17 outside it. Surely under-reported. W Mid Noted during the breeding season at 21 localities and outside it at a further 15. Frequently seen close to the centres of Birmingham, West Bromwich and Wolverhampton. 53

Buizard Warks - Singles near Arrow on April 24 and May 7, Kingsbury on April 29 and Oakley Wood on May 6 were the only records. Worcs Reported from 15 localities during the breeding season, mostly west of the Severn where there appears to be an expanding population in the Teme Valley, and at a further 13 widely-scattered localities outside the breeding season. At least three pairs bred. Excluding breeding season records, the monthly distribution was January (four), February (five), March (three), July (one), August (two), September (two) and December (one). Staffs Seen throughout the year at two sites in the Churnet Valley and a pair bred in the west of the county. Otherwise singles at Belvide on January 23, March 12 and August 16 and elsewhere in January (one), February (four), March (two), June (one), August (three), September (two), November (two) and December (five). W Mid Singles at Sandwell Valley on an unspecified date and Bradnocks Marsh on November 3. One found freshly dead at Bearwood on March 29.

Osprey A better year, with six birds. Warks One at Draycote on September 2 REH. Worcs One flew through Upton Warren on May 12 SMW, RRH, GIG, REH. One at Bittell on June 2 KGC. Staffs Singles at Belvide on May 2 SJ, IM, SN; Aqualate on July 21 DWE, FCG; and Blithfield from July 24 to August 27 JCE-D, MJE et al.

Kestrel No change in status. Worcs Plentiful on the Malvern Hills, where 19 seen in the air together on July 27 MJI, JJM. W Mid Frequently reported in inner city areas.

Merlin Another good year, with at least 25 birds. Warks A female or immature was seen at Lea Marston on November 2 ARD, with probably the same bird at Kingsbury from December 22 into the new year JEF, SCC, BLK, and a male at the same place on December 28 PDH. One flew NE through Portway on December 4 JRW. Worcs Singles at High Green on January 15 (male) SWW, Holt on January 20 (immature) GHP, Frankley on January 31 (female/immature) SMW and February 2 (male) SPR, Eckington on February 3 (male) NJM, Little Comberton on March 2 (male) with probably the same bird at Elmley Castle on March 4 PFW, Wyre Piddle on March 16 (female) GHP, Ashmoor Common on October 29 PGG, Holt again on November 10 RM (female) and finally Bredon on December 17 (male) RM. 54

Staffs A male and a female or immature were seen near Essington on February 18 and 23 RKS. JJO, ADB and 24 GIG, KRS. A pair were then seen in the same area on August 21, with the male remaining until the end of the year RKS, JJO, ADB. On the Moors a female flew across Swallow Moss on April 9 SMW, a male was seen at Gun Hill on April 14 AWPH, and one pair bred RSPB survey. Elsewhere, a female at Doxey on May 3 MDB, MLC and a female or immature at Branston on September 15 TC. W Mid Singles noted in the Sandwell Valley on January 20 PG (an immature) and October 22 (male) PMH, and at Willenhall on December 7 JR (female) and Brierley Hill Pools on December 28 and 29 GA.

Hobby Average: April 28(18) to October 1 (21) First noted on April 26 and 27, but most arrived in May. The majority left in mid-September, with the last on October 16 and 25 — the latter the latest ever. Warks No breeding information this year. Spring records from Seeswood on April 27, Earlswood throughout May, Draycote in May, and Charlecote and Kingsbury in June. Then seen regularly in the Tame Valley between July 27 and September 3, with other sightings at Lower Packington and Umberslade in July, Draycote in August and Claverdon in late September. Worcs No evidence of successful breeding, but a pair was seen displaying in the south. First seen at Upton Warren on April 26, with further sightings in May and June both here and at Beckford, Bittell, Defford, Droitwich, Evesham, Little Malvern, Pershore and Wythall. Late summer sightings at Upton Warren again, and at Larford in July; Abberton, Broadway and Holt in August; and Abberton, Bittell, Broadway, Crowle and Oakley in September. Staffs A pair bred successfully in the north per FCG. Noted regularly at Belvide between May 4 and September 17, when one was chasing an Arctic Tern. Other spring sightings in May and June from Chasewater, Enville and Trent Vale. Then seen regularly on the Moors between July 13 and September 6; Branston between July 19 and September 13; Doxey between August 12 and September 22, with late records on October 16 and 25; and Blithfield intermittently between August 12 and September 15. Also seen in August and September at Alrewas, Chasewater and Lichfield. W Mid Seen in May at Handsworth (twice), Hollywood and Sutton Park. Noted in the Woodgate Valley on single dates in both June and July. Singles over the M5 at Warley on July 29, Sandwell Valley on August 22, Dorridge on August 24 and Hollywood on September 14.

1983 Addendum Staffs One at Upper Longdon on August 7 DIMW. 55

1984 Addendum Staffs Seen on the Moors on July 21 and 28.

Peregrine Appearances continue to increase and some birds are now making protracted stays. Worcs A male at Little Comberton on February 18 PFW, one near Ripple on February 23 SWW, JRH, a male at Bredons Hardwick on April 8 SMW, one at Upton Warren on September 15 JHB, INR and an adult near Bredons Hardwick on December 17 RM. Staffs An immature female at Meaford Power Station from February to December was joined by an adult male in August and early September per EWL, JPM. The female was seen on three occasions to take feral pigeons and once a Rook. Coincidentally, one also stayed at Drakelow Power Station from February to December, during which time it often flew over Branston. One at Rudyard on January 5 PGB, while Blithfield held a female/immature from July 4 to 16, a male from September 1 to December 14 and another female/immature from September 17 to December 22 JCE-D et al.

Red Grouse

Staffs An RSPB survey of the Moors revealed 100 pairs per FCG.

Black Grouse Staffs A full, early morning survey of leks on April 28 revealed 15 males and nine females, most at just one lek. A subsequent survey by the RSPB discovered five nests per FCG. This represents a dramatic decline since the 1974 survey, when 47 Blackcock were discovered. Red-legged Partridge Warks Reported to be much scarcer in the north-west than fifteen years ago BLK. Largest coveys were 18 at Draycote in February and 19 at Alvecote in November. Worcs Winter coveys of 29 near Hartlebury in January, of which at least eight showed characteristic Chukar markings BW, and 18 at Bredons Hardwick in February. The only autumn coveys greater than 10 were 12 at Holt and 14 at Summerfield. Staffs Very few reports, with 15 at Norton-Canes on September 29 the most. W Mid Reports from just four localities, with 28 near Wednesfield the largest covey. Said to be scarce in Sutton Park due to increased disturbance, but to have increased at Tividale over the last three years.

Grey Partridge Very few reports. Was it scarce or under-recorded? Warks Maxima of 11 at Walton in January and 40 at Alvecote in November. 56

Worcs Largest counts were 12 in February at Westwood and 15 in October at Holt, where several family groups were seen. One at Upton Warren on June 23, where not often seen. Staffs Just four reports, with 15 near Pottal Pool in February and 12 at Chasewater in November the largest coveys. W Mid Drastic decline from nine to three in the Woodgate Valley SPR. Largest coveys were 12 at Hockley Heath in February and eight at Rushall in November.

dual I

Worcs One heard for the third successive year in a hay crop at Thicknall BW. Another was heard and seen in barley and hay at Doverdale from June 14 to 23, with a second male calling half-a-mile away on June 15 MJI, SMW. One seen and heard at Larford from June 30 to July 27 ICW, SMW, MJI, MDJ. Staffs One heard calling at 4 am on May 19 at Norton Canes PWD. In the favoured High Offley district, two were heard calling from barley on July 1 JPM.

Pheasant Few reports, but no apparent change in status. Staffs Eight pairs bred at Doxey, compared to three in 1984. 57

W Mid At least two males held territory in Sutton Park and a female was seen with at least three chicks. A pair was also discovered at the eastern end of Woodgate Valley and one was seen in Sandwell Valley in November, at which time 200 (70% males) were at Berkswell.

Golden Pheasant W Mid One in Sutton Park on June 3 GMH was presumably an escape.

Water Rail Warks Singles noted in winter at Alvecote (with two on January 20), Brandon and Draycote. Three or four were at both Kingsbury and Ladywalk during January and February and two were chased by a Coot at the former locality on April 7. Singles at Middleton Hall in June and Ladywalk in August, but no evidence of breeding. From late October onwards several were at Kingsbury, up to two at Alvecote and Nether Whitacre, and one at Draycote. Worcs Present in winter at Bittell, Briar Hill Coppice, Broadway, Grimley, Hillditnh Coppice (two), Upton Warren (two) and Wilden (ma*, three). Bred at Upton Warren and possibly at Oakley, where two calling on June 9, and Bittell, where one flushed on July 5. Autumn birds at Bittell (two), Grimley, Larford, Oakley (two). Sling Pool, Upton Warren and Wilden. Undated winter records from Castlemorton Common, Rous Lench and Strensham. Staffs Noted in winter at Astonefields, Cannock, Chasewater, Copmere, Doxey (max. three), Greensforge and Himley. No positive proof of breeding, but noted at Cannock in June and Belvide and Chasewater in August. Autumn reports from Astonefields (two), Belvide (two), Cannock, Chasewater, Doxey (two) and Himley. W Mid Winter records from Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park, Tividale (two), Trittiford Park, Willenhall and Wyken Slough. Noted in autumn at Brierley Hill Pools, Sandwell Valley (two) and Tividale (two).

Spotted Crake Warks One, probably a first-winter bird, at Lea Marston from August 24 to September 13 AC, JAA, JB, GIG, ARD. Staffs One at Doxey on September 22 and 23 MDB, MLC.

Moorhen Warks 60 at Alvecote in January was the most reported. Worcs Maximum of 42 at Bittell in late autumn. Staffs 15 pairs bred at Doxey. Maximum of 73 at Belvide in September. W Mid 31 at Berkswell in December was the highest count. 58

Coot Monthly maxima for selected sites:

J F M A M J J A s 0 N D

Alvecote 395 310 230 106 85 100 230 350 495 500 330 260 Draycote 440 380 Packington — 61 121 63 19 53 54 49 29 45 37 37 Seeswood 104 61 47 32 — — — — — — — 92 Shustoke 101 11 24 — — — — 55 96 116 110 168 The Somers — 41 25 12 5 12 20 50 80 148 111 38

BiUull 1U b 14 22 24 22 34 34 47 100 90 90 Larford — — — 50 50 60 — 179 — —

Aqualate 6 185 33 12 • 0 _ Belvide 30 — 200 200 — — — — 346 341 212 205 Blithfield 300 600 — - — — — — 500 — — — Chasewater 550 200 191 29 — 14 47 104 211 416 431 550 Trentham 250 180 47 — — 46 — 87 62 71 24 Westport 125 — 200 200

Warks About 10 pairs reared broods at Alvecote. 182 at Coton in January. Worcs 126 at Pirton in December. Staffs Increase from 12 to 21 pairs at Doxey. January counts of 93 at Kings Bromley and 71 at Freeford. W Mid Up to 50 at Edgbaston Reservoir and 81 at Wyken Slough in January, and 160 at Edgbaston Park in November.

Oystercatcher An excellent spring passage. Warks In the Tame Valley first noted at Kingsbury, where two on March 13, and Coton, where one on April 5. These were followed by the main arrival in May, with two at Kingsbury on May 11 building into a flock of 13 on May 21, and up to three on intermittent dates until July 14. At Coton there were six on May 19, followed by up to four until June 8 and one on June 23, while Ladywalk held two on May 30, three on June 8 and one on June 17 and 18. Further south, two frequented a flooded field at Coleshill on June 8, with three the following day. Despite this influx there were again no reports of attempted breeding, and the only autumn records were of singles at Ladywalk on August 17 and Coton on September 9. Elsewhere just two singles, at Draycote on March 23 and Alvecote on June 21. Worcs Spring records (singles unless otherwise stated) from Matchborough on March 20 (flying over), Bittell (two) on April 2, Bredons Hardwick on May 7, Upton Warren (three flying over) on May 15 and Larford on May 25. Return passage at Upton Warren brought two on August 5, one on August 18 and two on August 23, while Bittell held two on September 12 and one on September 16. Staffs Early records of singles at Chasewater on February 8 and 27 and March 22, and Blithfield from February 15 to 19 and on 26, with two at 59

Doxey on an unspecified date. In the east of the county a pair was present from March 16 until July 14, with possibly a second pair in May, but again there was no sign of breeding. Main spring passage brought singles to Belvide on April 10, and May 10, 11 and 29; Chasewater on April 20 and 21, May 4, 17 (two) and 29, and June 25; and Trentham on May 1. Return passage began on July 9, with one at Blithfield which was followed by another on July 23, four on August 6 and singles on August 18, 22 and 27. At Chasewater one on August 6 was followed by five on August 18, two on 25, and singles on September 1 and October 15. Belvide held two on August 25 and one on September 5, while one was at Westport on September 30. W Mid Singles at Tividale on March 28 and May 20, and in the Sandwell Valley on May 3 and October 23.

1984 Corrigendum

Avocet Warks Two birds were present at Coton on May 1 and 2.

Little Ringed Plover Average: March 22(21) to October 3 (21) An early bird at Belvide on March 13, with the main arrival beginning at the end of the month. Most departed in mid-September and the last was seen at Coton on October 5. Half-monthly maxima at all localities:

M A M J J A s 0 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2

Alvecote 2 2 1 2 Brandon — — — — — — 2 — 1 — - — — — Coton/Kingsbury — 1 8 10 12 14 16 18 26 27 12 8 — 3 1 —

Ladywalk _ 1 _ 4 _ _ 1 15 5 _ Seeswood — — — 3 3

Bredons Hardwick 2 2 2 3 _ 3 7 Holl — — 2 — 2 — 1 3 5 5 — — — Lerlord — — 1 1 5 3 5 5 3 2 Upton Warren — 1 1 S 1 4 4 3 4 9 3 3 1 1 — —

Belvide 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 4 2 _ Blithfield — — — 1 3 3 2 — 7 11 4 4 3 16 — Chasewater — — 2 7 8 4 5 — 3 8 5 1 1 — — DnxRy — — — 3 1 1

Tittesworth - - - - 2 2 - - 2 6 ------

Brierley Hill Pools 2 1 1 6 Tividale — — 2 3 7 4 6 2 8 10 5 2 — — —

16 other sites - 2 12 9 14 - - - - 13 - 1 . 1 - - - 60

Warks Nine pairs in the Tame Valley, including at least six at Coton where a broud uf llnee been. Two pairs bred at Brandon, but Success unknown, probably bred at Alvecote and two pairs near Warwick. Worcs Bred successfully at Holt and Larford, but breeding attempt at Upton Warren unsuccessful due to predation by Moorhens. May also have bred at a site near Bromsgrove and two pairs present at Bredons Hardwick. Staffs Bred at Astonefields, Branston and almost certainly at Chasewater and Kings Bromley. W Mid A pair twice attempted to breed in the Sandwell Valley, but both clutches were lost.

Ringed Plover Half-monthly maxima at all localities:

MAM J J A S 0 12 12 12 1 2 12 12 12 12

Brandon 2 - Coton/Kingsbury 5 2 7 4 8 12 8 14 256893 — — Draycote _ _ _ 1 _ _ Ladywalk _ 3 — — 2 1 — -

Bittell ___ )______4 2 1 — — Bredons Hardwick — 1 1 1 6 4 — — — — — 1 — — — — Larford _____2 2 — — 1— — 1 3 1 — Upton Warren — — — 1 23—32—55 1 53 —

Belvide 1 — — 3 1 — — — — 1 1 B573 BlitWield - 3 — — — 1 2 5 9 816 9 Chasewater 1 2 2 5 15 19 8 3 — 2 5 17 16 3 13 Doxey — 1 i ______i i i Tittesworth ______i___ i —

Eight other sites — — 1 1 — — 1 3 — 1 1 412 —

Warks One at Coton on February 2 and 5. At least two pairs bred in the Tame Valley, raising broods of two and three, two other pairs failed and another was seen intermittently. Singles at Oraycote on November 2 and Coton on November 9. Worcs Singles at Bredons Hardwick on February 25 and Bittell on November 16. Staffs One, presumed a first-summer, at Chasewater on May 22 lacked any black on head or breast GE.

Dotterel Worcs Three seen briefly on Chase End Hill, Malvern, on April 28 before flying off to the north SO, MF.

Golden Plover Average: August 11 (38) to April 25 (39) Most had left by the second week of April, but there was a late record 61

from Bredons Hardwick on May 9. Three returned to Holt on August 3 and there was a gradual arrival thereafter. Monthly maxima at traditional and other selected sites:

.1 F M 4 M J J A - S 0 N D

Alvecoie 125 35 BO Coventry-Rugby 300 300 300 — 400 410 400 420 Tame Valley 165 28 370 1 1 1 11 300 450 340

Abberton-Beslord 300 86 14 69 60 200 Bredon area 19 15 267 42 630

Belvide 18 4 2 1 5 200 150 Dove Valley 78 40

Essington 150 - - - Gailey 142 600 Hixon 12 120

Bickenhill - - SO ------Minworth 345

1 6 10 24 other sites 55 75 227 2 - - - 225 20

Staffs The RSPB Moors survey revealed 12 pairs per FCG.

Grey Plover Another very good year. Warks A party of nine visited Coton on November 16, while four which were later seen flying south along the Tame may have been different birds. One was at the same locality on November 18, when one was also at Draycote. A further party of five then stayed at Coton on November 30 and December 1. One was again at Draycote on the latter date. Worcs Singles at Bredons Hardwick on March 30 and Bittell on October 20. Staffs One at Chasewater on May 14 and 15 was the sole spring record. In autumn singles at Blithfield on September 7 and Belvide the next day, followed by three at Chasewater and two at Blithfield on September 24 — the latter staying until October 1. Singles were also seen at Westport on September 27, Belvide on October 8, Chasewater on October 16, Blithfield on December 1 and finally Belvide from December 6 to 15.

Lapwing A very poor year, with exceptionally low winter numbers. Warks Winter flocks very small, with 250 at Alvecote in January and 700 at Coton in February the most reported. Did not breed at Ladywalk — the first time in the reserve's history that no wader chicks were seen. Larger flocks in autumn, with 1500 at Kingsbury in August, 3000 at Coton in November and December and 1200 at Draycote in December. Worcs Largest winter flocks were 1500 at Holt, 750 at Bredons Hardwick and 500 at Upton Warren, all in February. Best breeding season for some 62

years at Upton Warren, where four pairs raised 11 young. Post- breeding flocks of 2000 at Upton Warren in August and 1500 at Holt in September, then 2000 at Bredons Hardwick in December and 1200 at Bittell at the end of the year. Staffs No winter flocks reported. Two pairs bred at Doxey and the RSPB Moors survey was disappointing, with just 272 pairs. Post-breeding flocks of 330 at Belvide in July and 500 at Blithfield in August followed by winter gatherings of 1000 at Blithfield and 425 at Chasewater in November and 1000 at Doxey in December. W Mid Four at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 27. Bred at Stubbers Green and possibly in the Woodgate Valley, where 100 in August. 500 at Aldridge in December and 26 over Willenhall on December 28. Summated monthly maxima at all localities for the commoner wader species:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N 0

Lapwing 382 4240 106 54 19 650 3482 5141 2700 1380 3050 10816 Jack Snipe 10 27 29 9 — — - 1 11 28 16 Snipe 82 377 503 147 12 ' 0 11 21 110 216 129 416 Curlew 8 16 788 96 19 22 216 155 82 150 14 1 Redshank 17 20 101 98 53 82 36 27 5 6 12 25

Knot An excellent showing for the second successive year. Warks Spring records from Draycote, where one on April 21 and nine flying east on May 11. In autumn a summer-plumaged bird flew west near Stratford on August 22 and a winter-plumaged one visited Coton on August 25. Three were then at Lea Marston on September 14, with two at Coton the following day and one from September 16 to 22. Finally one was at Coton on December 26. Worcs A summer-plumaged bird at Larford on May 19 and 20. In autumn singles at Upton Warren from August 22 to September 4, and Larford ©n October 19. Staffs One in summer-plumage at Chasewater on May 24. Two in near summer-plumage at Chasewater on July 30 were then followed by juveniles from August 10 to 14 and on September 9. A party of 27 — a regional record — visited Blithfield on September 16 EGPand one was at the same locality from September 29 to October 1. Singles then appeared at Chasewater on October 16, Cannock the next day, Blithfield on October 20 and the Sow at Milford from October 24 to 27.

Sanderling Marked influx around May 21. Warks Noted only in the Tame Valley, where one at Kingsbury on May 19, five at Coton on May 21 decreasing to four on May 25 and one the next day. Return passage saw one at Kingsbury and one, perhaps the same, flying south through Coton on July 28 and one in summer-plumage at Kingsbury on August 7. 63

Worcs Singles at Upton Warren on May 24 and Larford the next day. Staffs One at Chasewater on the unusual date of January 12 was followed more typically by singles from April 27 to 29, and on May 3, 10 and 14. Three were then present on May 15 declining to one on May 20, but increasing to three on May 22 and four on May 25 and 26. Singles were also seen at Belvide on May 4 and Westport on May 8, 15 and 28. Return passage noted at Chasewater again, where two on July 27 and a different bird the next day, and singles on August 4, 23 and 24. Singles were also at Belvide on August 24 and Blithfield on September 1. W Mid Three at Bartley and four at Tividale on May 21.

Little Stint A better showing, with a noticeable influx around September 23. Warks An immature at Kingsbury on September 8 was followed by another at the same locality on September 25 and singles at Draycote from September 25 to 28, and Earlswood on September 27 and 28. Worcs One in partial summer-plumage at Larford on the unusual date of June 16 SWW, SEC. Singles then appeared at Upton Warren on September 12 and Bittell on September 23, followed by three at Upton Warren the next day and one on October 6 and 7. Staffs Single juveniles at Blithfield on August 24, from September 7 to 13, and on September 15, 21 and 22: then two on September 24 and 25, and six on September 27, decreasing to three on October 1, two the next day and one on October 5 and 6. Single juveniles at Belvide and Chasewater on October 3.

Temminck's Stint Warks A late bird at Coton on October 19 PDH. Worcs One, probably the same, at Upton Warren from October 23 to 27 DAJ, GET, SMW.

1984 Corrigendum White-rumped Sandpiper Staffs The bird at Tittesworth was of course an adult and not a juvenile as erroneously stated.

Curlew Sandpiper An excellent autumn, with 48 birds and a noticeable influx around the third week of September. Warks Recorded only in the Tame Valley, where one at Kingsbury and two at Coton on August 31, one of the latter still present the next day, and another at Coton on September 22 and 25. Worcs A good year at Upton Warren, with seven juveniles on September 21, and three different birds on September 25 and 26, two of which 64

remained until October 7. Singles also at Wilden from September 26 to 29 and Bittell on October 15 and 16. Staffs Blithfield held three juveniles on August 31, one of which remained until September 5. Six were then present on September 6, three the next day, an increase to 10 on September 11 and finally 17 on September 13. Numbers then gradually declined to six during the next week and four thereafter, but increased again to six from October 2 to 6. Finally a late bird was seen on November 1 ICW, LSA, MDJ. Elsewhere Belvide held two from September 13 to 23 and one on September 30, and Chasewater an immature on September 13 and 14, four immatures on September 19 and two on October 2 and 3.

Purple Sandpiper W Mid An adult at Tividale on July 28 LA, GW, ICW, PKD was only the second ever in that month. * Broad-billed Sandpiper

Warks One at Coton from June 1 to 4 ARD, ARMB, JB et al. was the first for the region. A small-bodied Calidrid recalling a stint in body size, but longer necked and with a proportionately very long, distinctively-shaped bill that kinked down cleanly at the tip v suggesting a mini crowbar. Central area of crown swarthy brown. Base of forehead buffy, lightly streaked and extending back into similarly coloured, bold supercilium. Supercilium divided anteriorly to form well-marked, forked extension onto sides of crown. Dark bars across lores; paler immediately behind eye, but rear ear coverts warm brown (with chestnut tinge). Mantle and scapulars dark, swarthy brown, but coverts rather paler. 65

Junction of mantle and scapulars marked by prominent white 'V. and lower edge of upper scapulars also pale-edged. Combination of swarthy feather centres produced superficially Snipe-like pattern. Tertials sepia, with chestnut-buff fringes. Lower throat and breast boldly streaked and mottled with brown on whitish ground, forming prominent gorget; streaking extending back along flanks to the sides of Ihe vent. Central tail and rump dark; outer tail dingy grey-white. Wing-bar rather inconspicuous. Bill dark at tip. becoming olive- brown over basal third. Legs olivey-brown. Call dzirrt'. recalling a martin or one particular call of a Short-toed Lark.

Dunlin Marked passage on April 27. Half-monthly maxima at all sites:

J F M A M J J A S 0 N D 12 12 12 12 12 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 12 12

Alvecote — 1 1 — Coton/Kingsbury 1 — 7 1 4 26 6 5 3 2 1 9 9 3 1 2 3 1 1 3 34 6 Draycote 2 — — 1 — 5 — 2 — 1 — 11 — Ladywalk 1 — 1 3 —

Bittell 2 — 1 3 4 27 5 — Bredon -—306 11 142 7 — 4 4 2 12 21 90 Larlord 1— 1— 1 5 — 1 Upton Warren 1 1 1 25 89 3 10 84422

Belvide —1 —1 422443—141853644842 — Blithfield 6— — 1— 2 3 14 13 28 23 12 10 7 7 7 — Chasewater 7 2 2 — 3 3 332 11 13 1 2 7 622 12 1 7 9 9 5 17 17 17 Doxey 1— 1 Tittesworth 2 1

Sandwell V 1 — — 1 4112—3 1 Tividale — 2 2 2 1 2 — 1 1 2 — 1 I —

Nine other sites 1— 1 2—2 1 2 — - 1 1—3 —

Staffs One noted displaying on the Moors on three or four occasions, but no evidence of nesting per FCG. Ruff A poor year except at Belvide, where spring passage was excellent and 12 on August 18 equalled the site record. Half-monthly maxima at all sites:

M A M J J A S 0 12 12 12 12 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2

Coton/Kingsbury , _ 1 1 — 1 4 - — 1

5 Bredons Hardwick - - 1 — 1 - - - Holt Uplon Worron _ _ _ 1 _ _ 1 _ 3 — - - 5 1 1 1

Belvide — — — 1 1 — 1 — — — 12 2 2 1 — Blithfield — 1 1 5 5 5 6 3 Doxey 2 1 1

_ _ _ i _ _ _ _ Nine other sites 1 2 3 - 2 — 66

Warks Three at Draycote on December 30, with one the next day. Staffs One at Rlithfielri nn Fphruary 06.

Jack Snipe Average: September 29 (43) to April 19 (40) Several reports until mid-April, with the last at Ford Green on April 23. In autumn one at Belvide on the early date of September 17, but no further records until early October. Warks A poor year, with singles at Kingsbury on December 24, Ladywalk on December 27 and Brandon on December 29 the snle records'. Worcs One or two at Upton Warren in January and February, increasing to four in March and last seen on April 11. Singles at Bittell during January and Oakley in February, two at Lower Moor in February and at Grimley on March 30, and two at Castlemorton Common in late March, with one on April 5. Autumn records from Bittell and Upton Warren, where one or two from October to the end of the year. Singles in October and December at Grimley and Larford, in November at Holt, and in December at Bredons Hardwick and along a roadside verge between Dunhampstead and Shernal Green. Staffs Monthly maxima at Chasewater were: January (two), February (three), March (four) and April (two), with the last record on April 20. Singles at Kettlebrook between January and March, near Burton and at Stafford Common and Tixall in January, and at Sandonbank in February. Up to two between March 10 and April 23 at Ford Green and two at Cannock on April 16. In autumn first noted at Belvide on September 17, with subsequent maxima of one in October, six on November 7 and one in December. Monthly maxima at Chasewater were two in October, three in November and one in December. Elsewhere, two at Blithfield between October 20 and December 1, one or two at Mill Green Park in November and December, three at Doxey in November and singles in December at Astonefields and Doxey. W Mid Good winter, with one at Brierley Hill Pools in January; three at Tividale, two at Netherton and one at Hockley Heath in February; and seven in the Sandwell Valley from February 27 to March 16, with five still present on March 28. Last seen at Tividale on April 21. In autumn, one at Tividale from November 4 to December 28, four at both Clayhanger and Brierley Hill Pools in November, and one in Sutton Park in December.

Snipe Warks One or two pairs probably bred at Alvecote, three displayed at Nether Whitacre and drumming birds were heard at Kingsbury and Ladywalk. Maxima at Coton were 1 20 on March 9 and 210 flying out at dusk on December 7. Otherwise poor numbers, with no flock exceeding 50 and wisps of 30-40 said to be noteworthy at Ladywalk compared to 150 or more a decade ago. 67

Worcs Drumming birds at Eckington, Strensham (two) and near Rous Lench, where seven birds were seen. One or two pairs at Wilden as usual, and one at Larford in late June and early July. Numbers poor, with maxima of 40 at Upton Warren in February, 86 at Eckington and 55 at Oakley in March and 63 at Oakley in April. Very few in autumn apart from 50 at Bredons Hardwick in December. Staffs Bred at Chasewater, Doxey (eight pairs) and Rickerscote, and heard drumming at Belvide. The RSPB survey showed the Moors to be very important for Snipe, with 385 pairs per FCG. Winter maxima of 150 at Doxey in February and March and 60 at Kettlebrook in February. Autumn maxima of 80 at Belvide in October and 60 at Doxey in November. W Mid Drumming heard at Clayhanger, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park (three birds). Several reports of birds in urban settings, especially during the cold, snowy weather early in the year. Maxima were 47 at Tividale and 31 at Wyken Slough in winter and 46 at Tividale in autumn. Seven at Witton Lakes in December were unusual.

Woodcock Warks Roding noted at Bentley Park, Clowes Wood (two), Compton Verney, Ladywalk, Walton and Wellesbourne. Up to three at Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Nether Whitacre and Newbold Comyn outside the breeding season. Worcs Bred successfully in Lynall's Coppice and roding birds seen at Atch Lench, Dowles Brook (seven), Shrawley Wood (three) and Trench Wood (four). Otherwise singles in winter at Bittell, the Malverns and Wilden, April at Spring Coppice, and autumn at Upton Warren and Wilden. Staffs Seen roding over Belvide and Cannock Chase (three sites), noted at Kinver in mid-summer, and present throughout the year at Chillington. One seen performing distraction display at Pillaton in August. Noted in winter at Trentham and Keele, spring at Chasewater, and autumn at Burnt Wood and Belvide. W Mid One roding in Sutton Park, where present throughout the year. Noted in winter at Park Lime Pits and Edgbaston, where one with a broken neck was found in a car park on March 27. Small passage in mid- November, with singles at Solihull, Park Lime Pits and Willenhall.

Black-tailed Godwit Warks One at Kingsbury on June 1 and 2, followed by two on June 28. Worcs Spring records from Upton Warren, where one on April 6, and Bredons Hardwick, where two on April 13. Return passage brought singles to Upton Warren on June 29, and August 1, 6 to 13, 15, 18 and 20. 68

Staffs One at Chasewater on June 4. Return passage noted at Belvide, where two on August 3. one on August 5 and two again the next day, one on August 18 and two new arrivals on August 22; and Chasewater, where three flew east on August 5. Passage at Blithfield began with one on July 28, followed by singles on August 13 and 14, and August 31 to September 5. W Mid An immature at Sandwell Valley on August 22.

Bar-tailed Godwit Worcs One flew north at Holt on November 30. Staffs Two at Chasewater on June 5, followed by singles on July 30 and September 9. One flew over the Moors on August 10, nine flew SW through Belvide on September 4 and one was at Kettlebrook on September 6. Blithfield held one from September 7 to 11, and six on September 14. Finally one was at Belvide on September 25. W Mid A flock of 20 flew NW over longstanding on September 18.

Whimbrel Exceptional numbers both in spring and autumn, with a noticeable movement around August 18. Warks Reported only from the Tame Valley, where singles flew south over Coton on July 20 and 28, and August 4; Kingsbury held two on July 27, one the next day and one on August 18; and three were at Coton on the latter date. Worcs "Singles in spring at Upton Warren on April 18, Pinvin on April 24, Kempsey on April 25 and Upton Warren again from April 30 to May 6. Return passage brought further singles to Grimley on July 14, Holt on August 7, Welland on August 26 and Bittell on August 30. Staffs Spring records from Belvide, where singles on April 17, 19 and 27 were followed by three on May 5; Chasewater, where singles on April 20, 29, 30, May 10 and 13, and 28 on May 11 — the largest party ever in spring; and Blithfield, where one on May 4. Return passage also at Belvide, where singles on July 14, 19 and August 19, a party of eight on August 28 and one on September 1; Chasewater, where singles on July 23 and August 10, three on August 15 and further singles on August 20, 28, 29 and 31; and Blithfield, where another party of 28 flew west on August 18, singles occurred on August 25 and 26 and two flew through on September 1. W Mid Small passage in early May, with one at Tividale on May 1, three in the Sandwell Valley on May 2 and one there the next day. 69

1984 Addendum W Mid A flock of 30 flew NW over Kingstanding on August 19.

Curlew An outstanding year. Warks No breeding records, but grass cutting at Maxstoke is thought to have destroyed some clutches. Up to three in the Coton-Kingsbury area from February to April, but seven at Coton on February 27. None until February 27 at Ladywalk, where the spring peak was 13 on March 22. By midsummer eight had returned to Ladywalk and the autumn roost peaked at 16 on October 11, with the last four birds seen on October 30. Meanwhile the Coton-Kingsbury area held three in June, 16 in July, 26 in late August, 12 in September and 12 during late October and early November. Up to 15 visited Whitacre Heath in September and October. Away from the Tame Valley, singles were at Alvecote on April 7 and 22, August 4 and October 19, and one was at Hartshill on April 8. Worcs. Breeding season records from Bredons Hardwick (two pairs), Dunhampstead, Goosehill Wood, Haws Hill, Longdon Marsh, Lower Bentley, Martin Hussingtree, Oddingley, Pensax, Powick, Puckrup (three pairs). Ripple (two pairs). Sailings and Romers Common, Severn Stoke, Shernall Green, Trench Wood, Trimpley and Witnells End. Excellent numbers roosted at Upton Warren, with the spring peak 75 on March 9 and the autumn peaks 120 on July 29 and August 7, and 100 in the second half of October. 23 flew south over Crowle on July 27 and small numbers were seen at Holt in June, July (up to seven) and August, Welland in August and Bittell in October. Staffs Good numbers in the north, with maxima of 198 in fields at Tittesworth on March 10 and 494 roosting at Longsdon on March 17. The RSPB survey estimated 524 pairs on the Moors per FCG. A post-breeding flock of 30 was seen at Gib Torr on July 25 and a late bird was at Tittesworth on November 2. Further south, up to eight roosted for the first time at Chasewater between January 12 and February 26, 26 were feeding at Whittington on March 7 and 18 visited Aqualate on March 17. Believed to have bred near Belvide, where one or two present from March through to October and a maximum of seven in late August. After the breeding season, small numbers noted frequently at Blithfield, with a maximum of 13 on September 1, and Chasewater, where a party of 30 flying north on September 10 was the last record. Ten at Dosthill on October 2 and one at Fisherwick on October 19 W Mid Four flew over Sandwell Valley on April 12, two crossed Sutton Park on April 26, and singles were at Meriden on May 29, Sutton Park on June 7 and November 12, Tividale on August 20 and Longbridge on October 21. 70

Spotted Redshank A poor year. Warks An adult remained in the Kingsbury-Coton-Ladywalk area from July 6 to September 7, during which time it moulted into winter plumage. Worcs A juvenile at Upton Warren from September 3 to October 6, with either the same or another individual present from October 11 to 16 and a second bird present on September 25. One at Wilden on October 19. Staffs One in breeding plumage at Belvide from April 18 to 20 was the sole spring record. Singles at Chasewater on August 18 and Blithfield from August 21 to September 5, with a second between August 26 and September 3.

Redshank Warks Bred at Coton, Kingsbury (two pairs), Ryton and possibly Wasperton, but not at Alvecote. Three pairs at Coleshill in late May and early June. Present in the Tame Valley from February through to December, with peaks of 15 in March and April and 21 at Kingsbury in late June. Maxima at Ladywalk were eight on March 11 and seven on December 27. Singles at Draycote on January 6 and Seeswood the following day were unseasonal. More typically noted in spring and late summer at Alvecote, Brandon and Seeswood. One at Earlswood on October 18. Worcs Bred at Upton Warren, where maximum of seven in late June, and probably at Eckington. Also noted in the breeding season at Bredons Hardwick (three pairs) and Ripple (two pairs). One in Arrow Valley Park on January 16. Good spring numbers in the Avon Valley, with 11 at Bredons Hardwick in early March increasing to 36 (mostly paired) by April 13 and 13 still present on June 23. Eight at Puckrup in March, two at Holt in April, up to five at Larford from March until July and a pair at Wilden in May, but no evidence of nesting. A late bird at Larford on November 30 and up to three in the Avon Valley in late December. Staffs Bred at Doxey, on the Moors (two pairs), near Alrewas (two pairs), and probably at Belvide, with pairs also noted in the breeding season at Fisherwick (two) and near Baswich and Sandon. Five flew over Blithfield on January 5, three were at Chasewater on January 6 and 12, one of which remained until March, and one was at Westport on January 25. Noted regularly at Belvide from late February until September, with a maximum of 12 in April; Blithfield in March, April and from June to September, with maxima of seven in April and eight in August; and Chasewater in March, April and from July to mid- September. Late birds at Blithfield, Chasewater (two) and Fisherwick in November, and at Belvide on December 15. W Mid Singles at Bartley on March 23, 30 and April 3; and Brierley Hill Pools on May 20, with two at Tividale on May 23. Up to three at Tividale during August. 71

Greenshank Half-monthly maxima at all sites:

A M J J A S 0 12 12 12 12 12 1 2 1 2

Alvecote 1

Brandon - 2 — — — — 1 1 - 1

Coton/Kingsbury 7 6 4 9 8 6 1 C O

Draycote — — 2 — u - 1 - Ladywalk — 1 — 3 4 5 C O

Biltell — — 1 _ _ _ _ — _ 1 1 1__ Bredons Hardwick — — — ______3 4 i_ 1 Upton Warren ______2 2 2 4 2 — Wilden ______1__

Belvide _1____ 1_ 1 1 1 1__ Blithfield _____ 12 5 1 21 11 6 10 1 Chasewater — — — _____ til 1 — — — Doxey ______1 3 3 1 — — —

Sandwell V — — — — — — — 1— 3 — — — Tividale ______2 1 — — —

Eight other sites — — — ____ i _ 6 5 — —

Staffs Parties of 11 at Chasewater on August 18 and 30 were locality records.

Green Sandpiper Monthly maxima at all sites:

J FMAMJ JASOND

Alvecote ______1 l 2 1 — — Brandon — — — — — — 5 8 1 1 1 — Coton/Kingsbury — 254— 2 16 12 8442 Ladywalk —111—1341111

Bittell 1 — — 1 — — — _ _ _ 3 3 Bredons Hardwick — 4 2 — — — — 1 3 — — 1 Grimley 1 1 — — — — — — — — — 1 Holt - — 1___ — 2 2 1 — _ Strensham 1 1— 1 — — — — 1 1 1 1 Upton Warren — 2 — 71517 3 1 — — Wilden — 1 — — — — — 2 4 1 1 1

Belvide — 1 — 1 — — 2 2 2 1 1 1 Blithfield _____ i t 3 3 4 — — Chasewater — — — — — — — — 1 — 1 — Doxey — — — 1— — — — — 2 — — Fisherwick 1 — 2 — — — — — — 1 — —

Sandwell V — 111 — — 11 — — — — Tividale ______i i 1 — — —

21 other sites 2 3 3 5 — 16 113 1 72

Wood Sandpiper

Warks Singles at Coton from May 19 to 22, on June 29 and from July 28 to August 10. Worcs Singles at Upton Warren on May 13, May 20 to 24 and July 31 to August 20. Staffs Singles at Blithfield from July 31 to August 11, Belvide from August 28 to September 5 and Chasewater on September 8 and 9.

Common Sandpiper Average: April 7 (49) to October 20 (45) Excluding wintering birds, first noted on March 25 in Mill Green Park, with the main arrival in the third week of April. Most had left by mid- October, with the last at Wilden on November 5 apart from a possible wintering bird at Rocester on November 28. Half-monthly maxima at all sites: 73

A M J J A S 0 N 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2

Alvecote 2 1 _ 12 1 _ _ Brandon — 1 — — 3 1 — — — — — — — Coton/Kingsbury B 1 1 I 3 1 I I 8 12 6 1 — 1 t 1 Draycote 6 2 — — — — 1 4 2 Earlswood 1 6 1 2 — 9 1 — — — — — — Ladywalk — 2 — 1 3 3 3 3 1 1 1 — — — Seeswood — 2 3 1

Bittell 9 1 3 13 1 2 2 Bredons Hardwick — 3 11 3 — — — 3 — — — — — —

Larford _ _ 2 1 8 3 1 1 Upton Warren — 1 9 1 1 3 8 8 7 4 2 — — — Wilden — — — 1 — — — — 1 3 — 1 1 —

Belvide 3 7 5 1 3 3 4 13 10 6 6 7 1 Blithfield — 10 1 1 — 5 12 12 17 5 7 3 1 1 1 — Chasewater 1 6 7 4 — 2 16 14 6 9 2 — 2 — — 1 Tittesworth 5 16 2

Bartley 4 1 1 _ 1 1 2 - Brierley Hill Pools — 4 2 1 1 Sutton Park — — 2 1 — — 2 2 1 1 Tividale 1 7 4 1 1 1 5 14 17 8 1 1 1 —

1 14 other sites D 3 5 - 1 - 1 7 2 2 - -

Warks Wintering or early birds at Alvecote on February 23, March 7 and March 22, and Kingsbury on March 9. One remained in the Coton area until at least December 28, but another flew into a wire across the Lea Marston purification lake on November 10 and broke a wing. W Mid An early bird at Lower Gornal on March 31.

Turnstone Warks Noted in spring at Seeswood on April 29, Coton on May 21 and 26 (three) and Draycote on June 9. One at Kingsbury on June 22 was followed by returning birds at Draycote on August 4 and Coton on August 16 and 19. Worcs One at Bredons Hardwick on May 24. Staffs Spring records from Chasewater on May 1, 3, 15, 20 (two) and 23; Fatholme on May 19 and Belvide on May 23. Return passage at Chasewater on July 29, August 4, 20 (three), September 3 and September 15 (four); Belvide on August 1 and 2, with further individuals on August 4 and from August 24 to September 2; and Blithfield on August 5, 16, 17, 18 and 19 (four), 20 (three), September 1 (four) and surprisingly December 1, when eight headed SW. W Mid Singles at Tividale on April 21, Sutton Park on May 17 and Sandwell Valley on May 19. Two at Tividale on August 19 on return passage. 74

Wilson's Phalarope Worcs One which paused briefly at Upton Warren on September.,14 AS.was the first record for the region. Possibly the same bird was seen at Slimbridge earlier in the day. Midway between Dunlin and Greenshank in size with long, yellow legs that gave an almost ungainly, top-heavy appearance. Bill was thin, straight, long and blackish. Rear crown, rear neck and back were a clear, pale unstreaked pearl grey. Prominent eyestripe behind eye and very pale (white) supercilia and forecrown. Dark, blackish primaries. Very pale grey/white underparts and pale grey sides to upper breast. In flight showed an obvious white rump, but no wing-bar.

Red-necked Phalarope Staffs A female at Chasewater on May 31 PW, JB, FCG, GE.

Grey Phalarope Staffs One at Blithfield on October 10 RWS. W Mid A first-winter bird at Bradnocks Marsh from November 3 to 8 GIG, ARMB, ARD.

Pomarine Skua

An unprecedented movement of Pomarine Skuas occurred on the east coast of Britain during the second half of October and the first two weeks of November, with particular influxes on November 2 and 10. Part of these influxes reached the West Midlands. 75

Staffs A pale-phase adult occurred at Blithfield on November 2 NR and 3 MJE, MJI, PDH, and at Chasewater on November 10 PDH. An immature at Chasewater on November 18 GE, PMH and 19 PD, GE, CM was seen to kill and eat a Black-headed Gull and cause mass panic amongst the gull roost. W Mid A pale-phase adult at Tividale on November 10 GW, ICW and 11 several observers could have been the Chasewater bird.

Arctic Skua Worcs An adult pale-phase bird flew along the River Avon at Lower Moor on September 1 PS. Staffs An adult dark-phase bird was at Belvide on June 11 JKH et al., while a pale-phase adult at Chasewater on September 3 GE forced two Black- headed Gulls to disgorge food. At Blithfield two pale-phase and one dark-phase bird occurred on November 10 PDH. Two of these birds were only seen briefly, but their slim, narrow-winged build and jizz pointed to them not being Pomarine Skuas.

Mediterranean Gull Warks An adult approaching breeding plumage was present in the Lea Marston area on February 6 JEF and 16 SCC, JAA and at Shustoke on February 12 JAA. Worcs An adult in winter plumage occurred at Madeley Heath tip on February 26 SMW.

Staffs A first-winter bird was at Westport Lake on January 19 DWE.

Laughing Gull W Mid A first-winter bird at Edgbaston Reservoir from January 15 to 18 PVI was the first regional record of this Nearctic species. Slightly smaller than Common Gull, but with proportionately longer wings that gave a more attenuated appearance. Generally dark, with dark grey head, breast and flanks. Upperwing dark, with brown coverts and black primaries and secondary bar. Underwing showed dark 'axis'. Tail greyish (contrasting with white rump) with black subterminal band. Heavy, drooping, blackish bill. Long, blackish legs. Little Gull Warks An adult at Coton on May 20 and 21 was the only spring record. Return passage consisted of a juvenile at Kingsbury from August 18 to 26 and a first-winter bird at Draycote on November 20. Worcs A first-summer bird was at Bredons Hardwick from April 13 to 21, juveniles at Larford on May 14 and Bittell on August 29, and a second- winter bird at Upton Warren on September 7. Staffs At Belvide single first-summer birds were present on April 17 and May 2, 3, 7 and 15. Second-summer birds occurred on May 2, 3 and 15, with an adult also on the latter date. At Blithfield a first-year bird occurred from April 16 to 18, followed by three on April 21. At Chasewater there were two first-summer birds on April 13 and 14 76

with an adult on the first date, and single first-summer and second- summer birds from April 29 to May 2 with another adult nn April 30. A first-winter bird was then present on October 18, 20 and 28. At Blithfield autumn passage consisted of an adult and a juvenile on August 18 and a first-winter on November 5, while at Belvide there were four juveniles from August 19 to 21, two on August 28 and one on September 5.

1984 Addendum W Mid A first-winter bird was at Perry Barr Park on November 5 JEF.

Black-headed Gull Warks 22000 roosted at Shustoke on January 16, while 14000 at Ladywalk on February 15 was a record total for the reserve. 800 were at Alvecote on September 7 and an albinistic bird occurred at Draycote in September, October and December. Two juveniles visited Coton on June 23. Worcs 900 at Westwood on January 3, 3000 at Bittell on January 5, 1600 at Madeley Heath on February 26 and 2200 at Westwood on March 19. 1000 at Upton Warren on August 14. Nested at Bredons Hardwick. Staffs 10000 roosted at Chasewater in early January and 6000 on March 4, but only 25 remained by the end of April: 1000 had returned by July 27, building up to over 8000 by November 21. 25 oiled birds were present on February 19. Over 5000 roosted at Belvide in March and 5000 at Aqualate on November 18. Up to 50 pairs bred at Fisherwick, where at least 40 juveniles were present on July 14. W Mid 6000 at Edgbaston Reservoir from January 13 to 18 and 3000 at Bartley on February 16. Large numbers of this and other gull species were seen passing over Great Barr on their way to roost at Chasewater during the winter and autumn.

Common Gull Warks 100 at Shustoke on February 13 and 22 at Ladywalk on February 15 were locality records. 12 at Seeswood Pool on March 29 and 11 adults flying west at Newbold Comyn on July 12. Most reported from Draycote was 30 in February. Worcs 26 roosted at Bittell on February 9 and 20 fed at Hill and Moor tip on February 19. The easterly spring passage along the Cotswolds brought 54 to Broadway on March 11, 190 adults on March 16, 64 on March 18 and at least 1000, a county record, on April 2. Bredons Hardwick held 90 on April 10. Staffs The only records of over 10 birds were at least 45 on January 13, 20 on February 23 and 11 on April 10 at Chasewater and 15 on November 26 at Blithfield. W Mid 10 at Rowley Regis on January 16, 150 at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 18 and 50 at Bartley on February 16. 77

Lesser Black-backed Gull Warks Obviously under-recorded with records only from Alvecote and Kingsbury. Worcs 180 at Madeley Heath on February 26 and March 1, 200 at Bittell on October 30 and over 200 flying south at Upton Warren on December 22, when 140 were at Larford. Staffs At Chasewater 1100 on March 4 had declined to 760 by the 22; 50 in May and June then increased to 550 by July 27 and 700 on December 27. 800 roosted at Blithfield during January. 400 at Cannock tip on April 7 and over 400 at Belvide in August and October. W Mid 140 at Edgbaston Reservoir on February 12 and 127 at Bartley on October 31.

Herring Gull Warks Very small numbers noted at Alvecote and Seeswood Pool. Worcs About 250 roosted at Upper Bittell on January 5, 40 at Holt on January 20 and Westwood on January 25, and 300 at Madeley Heath on January 31. Staffs The maximum roosting at Chasewater was 2000 on January 1, falling to 1000 by January 6 and 240, mainly first-summer birds, in March. Single birds were noted in May, June and August, 50 in October, 300 in November and 800 by the end of the year. The white bird was again present in January and December, its sixth consecutive winter, while a bird with extensively white primary tips and blackish bases only to the outer two primaries was noted from January 1 to 6 GE, and a leucistic bird from March 29 to April 1. On January 26, 2000 roosted at Blithfield where an albinistic bird on February 24 displayed all white head, body and coverts, but normal adult wing-tip pattern. At Cannock tip 950 were present on December 15. W Mid 200 at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 28 and 63 at Willenhall on October 11.

Iceland Gull Warks Probably a second-winter bird present at Draycote on January 1 AC, REH and a third-winter on January 26 SMW. A first-year occurred at Kingsbury on March 9 JEF and probably a third-winter at Shustoke on December 27 BLK. Worcs One at Madeley Heath on January 31 GHPand another on February 26 GHP, WRHP, SMW were both probably second-winter birds. Staffs A third-winter bird at Belvide on February 1 ICW, MDJ and a first- summer bird on March 28 JKH et al. Another third-winter bird at Blithfield on January 6 AC, ARD, JCE-D, JPM, followed by a second- winter bird on January 12 ARD, MJE and a different first- or second- winter on January 25 ICW, MDJ and 26 ARD, SKW. A first-winter then occurred on February 16 ARD. The following birds were noted at Chasewater: an adult on January 1 GE, MJI, GJM, an adult or third- 78

winter on January 13 and 14 GE, a second-winter on January 17 GE, a first-winter on January 18 GE, SPT. a first-summer from March 8 to 16 JB, GE which was also at Cannock tip on the last date GE and another first-summer from March 29 to April 3 GE. At Westport second-winter birds occurred on January 27 and February 16 PGB. A bird at Blithfield on February 16 looked structurally like a perfect second-winter Iceland Gull, but its primaries were a shade darker than any age of Iceland, the tail was white with a dusky, broken, diffuse grey-brown subterminal band, and the bill pink with blackish distal third ARD. W Mid A third-winter bird occurred at Edgbaston Reservoir on Janaury 14PW and two (first- and second-winter) on January 19 ARMB, GE, PVI, SPT, SKW, which were probably the same as those at Chasewater during the previous two days GE.

1984 Addenda W Mid A first- or second-year bird occurred at Great Barr on February 2, 6 and 28 JEF.,

Glaucous Gull Warks A first-winter bird at Draycote on January 26 AC, PDH, REH, S/WWand February 2 PDH. Worcs A second-winter bird occurred at Larford on December 28 REH. Staffs A first-winter bird at Blithfield on January 12 ARD, MJE, 19 ARD, 26 ARD and February 3 MRG and one at Chasewater on January 16 to 19 GE etal., 25 AC and 27 GE. A further two first-winter birds occurred on January 18, but did not roost SPT. An adult was present in the roost from November 12 to December 30 GE et al. and a first-winter occurred on December 30 JAA and 31 PDH, when another also roosted at Belvide SJ, DS. An adult was at Kings Bromley on December 26 JCE-D and a third-winter at Westport on January 27 and February 12, 24 and 25 PGB, JPM. W Mid A third-year bird at Queslett on February 22 JEF.

1983 Addendum Warks A first-winter bird at Hams Hall on November 26 JAA.

Hybrid or Aberrant Gulls Staffs A first-winter bird at Chasewater on January 19 GJM and at Blithfield the same and following day ARD was a Glaucous x Herring Gull hybrid and a third-winter bird at Chasewater on January 26 GE was probably a similar hybrid. A near adult bird at Chasewater on March 16 and at Cannock tip the next day showed a remarkable plumage similarity to Glaucous-winged Gull, but was seen to have a pale iris GE, EGPetal. W Mid A first-year bird at Queslett on February 20 JEF was a probable Glaucous x Herring Gull hybrid. 79

Great Black-backed Gull Record numbers were present during the hard weather in January. Warks 70 at Shustoke on January 15 and eight at Ladywalk on February 15 were both site records. Nine occurred at Judkins Quarry on February 5, 31 at Kingsbury on December 23 and 65 at Draycote on December 27 Worcs Five at Bittell on January 4 and 12 at Madeley Heath on January 31. One or two also noted at Thicknall, Puckrup and Upton Warren, where one on July 11 was unusual. Staffs 250 at Blithfield on January 6 and 185 at Chasewater on January 10 were both exceptionally high totals. Relatively few were present during February, although there were over 30 at Cannock tip on 13. Over 65 at Blithfield on December 1 and 21 at Cannock tip on December 15. W Mid Recorded from Willenhall, Sutton Park and Edgbaston Reservoir where there were 12 on January 28.

Kittiwake Warks Draycote held four adults on March 3 and one on March 23, when one was also at Packington. A first-summer bird at Kingsbury on April 21 and 22, an adult and first-summer bird at Draycote on April 27 and two adults at Earlswood on May 1. A juvenile at Coton on October 20 was the only autumn record. Worcs A sub-adult at Evesham on January 7, an adult or sub-adult at Larford on February 14 and adults at Bittell on April 27 and Larford on May 25. Staffs At Blithfield two adults (one dead) on January 5, a dead second-winter bird on January 28, three adults on April 10, a first-summer bird on April 28 and four immatures on September 25. On November 11 one first-winter and 26 adults arrived with 23 flying out to the SW, yet on November 16 a further 26 adults flew into roost. A first-winter bird flew north near Branston on February 9. At Westport a first-winter bird on February 10 was found dead the next day, an adult occurred on April 29, three on 30 with two up to May 2. At Tittesworth a juvenile occurred on August 11. At Chasewater single adults occurred on March 16 and April 21, while Belvide held single adults on March 10 and April 9 and 29, and an immature on October 26. W Mid One at Tividale on April 29.

1984 Addendum Caspian Tern Staffs One at Rocester on April 26 NR was the eighth record for the region, but the first in April. Massive Size and wing-span, two-to-three times larger than Common Tern. Bill deep red and very heavy, lacking any black tip. Wings very long, upper surface light-grey with a white leading edge. Primaries black, particularly noticeable from beneath, with no translucent patches. Tail forked, but without streamers. Black cap. In flight wings were held straighter than Common Tern and wing beats were slow, powerful and more gull- than tern-like. 80

Sandwich Tern Warks Two flew east at Kingsbury on May 1 2 and four on September 14. A family group of four occurred at Draycote on September 25 and one briefly visited Ladywalk on October 1. Worcs Noted only at Bittell, where one on May 24 and four on September 25. Staffs At Chasewater adults occurred on May 9, May 22, June 12 (two) and August 10. W Mid Three at Tividale on September 21.

Common Tern Average: April 20 (2) to October 5 (2) First noted on April 20 at Chasewater and Kingsbury, with the main arrival in May. A major passage occurred on August 30 and most had left by the third week in September, with the last on October 10 at Belvide and Blithfield. Warks First noted at Kingsbury on April 20, with numbers building up to 40 adults by mid-June. About 16 pairs reared 37 young, of which 34 were ringed. Numbers were down to 15 by late August and regular reports ceased on September 7, with late sightings of one on September 28 and 14 on September 29 probably being passage birds. Up to six were noted at Coton in April, May and July, up to seven at Ladywalk from May 8 to the end of August and up to eight at Alvecote on several dates from May 10 to September 15, with two adults feeding two young, presumably from Kingsbury, on June 30. Recorded at Earlswood on both passages with maxima of 14 on May 25 and seven on September 14. One at Seeswood Pool on May 17 and 24. Worcs One or two noted on both passages at Upton Warren, plus a large southerly passage of 86 on August 30 which included flocks of 15, 37 and 30. Recorded at Bittell in May, July, August and September, with four on May 24 and six on August 12 and the last on September 22. Three at Larford on May 22, two at Bredons Hardwick on May 24, two at Defford in June and singles at Birlingham in August and Wilden on October 12. Staffs One at Chasewater on April 20, then usually up to five present until June 27 with a maximum of at least 1 5 on May 22. Autumn passage was noted from July 16 till September 26, with maxima of over 30 on August 14, a flock of 14 followed by at least 60 on August 30, and 11 on September 19. Up to three at Blithfield in May and June apart from 18 on May 5; and up to seven in August, two in September and one on October 10. At Belvide maxima were 11 on May 5 and nine on August 5, with the last on October 10. A pair displayed on the shingle island at Belvide on June 1 and at Fisherwick there were three on May 18 and an adult mobbing on July 14. Small numbers were noted at Branston, Clay Mills, Doxey, Kettlebrook, Kings Bromley and Tittesworth. 81

W Mid Spring records from Brierley Hill Pools, Tividale and Swan Pool in the Sandwell Valley, where five occurred on June 7. Autumn records came from Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park, where two on September 28 and one still present on October 6.

Arctic Tern Warks On April 27 three were present at Kingsbury and two at Draycote, where four occurred the next day, 14 on May 3, five on May 5 and two the day after. One at Kingsbury on May 22 and three at Coton on May 28, while four flew north at Earlswood on May 23 followed by nine the next day. No autumn records. Worcs One at Upton Warren on May 10 and three on May 20. Two at Bittell on May 21, one on May 23 and two at Westwood on May 22. On return passage singles at Bittell on June 7 and July 14, 15, 21 and 27, were followed by seven on August 18 and two on August 20 and 29. On August 18 two also occurred at Westwood and one at Upton Warren, where one was present from September 4 to 7 and two on September 14. Staffs Blithfield held three on April 23, two on April 28, 19 on May 5 and three on May 20. Return passage brought two on August 1 and singles on August 24, 31 and October 13. At Belvide there were five on May 15, four on May 24 and three on May 26; with return passage bringing one on August 18 and 19, a long-dead corpse found on August 29, one on September 16 and 17, and two immatures on October 13. Ch'asewater was visited by six on April 18, one on April 23 and 24, two on April 25, 27 on April 29 and one the next day; three then occurred on May 1, 24 on May 4, two the following day and five on May 15. Single immatures from September 17 to 24 and on October 4 were the only autumn records. Singles also occurred at Sneyd Reservoir on August 30 and Westport on September 10. W Mid Seven at Bartley on August 18 and one at Witton Lakes on September 6.

Half-monthly aummated totala of Common, Arctic and Black Terna at all localitiea:

A M J J A S 0 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2

Common 0 4 32 57 29 12 20 28 86 198 19 14 4 0 Arctic 0 51 75 33 2 2 0 0 2 18 5 2 4 0 Black 0 1 13 17 15 4 2 2 66 121 4 2 6 0

Note: All Tame Valley Common Terns have been excluded.

Little Tern Warks One at Draycote on June 9. Worcs An adult and two juveniles at Bittell on August 30. Staffs Singles at Chasewater on April 30, June 14, August 18 and September 15. A juvenile at Blithfield on August 11. 82

Black Tern Significant passages in mid-May, mid-August and late August. Warks Five at Kingsbury on May 17 and June 2 and singles on June 22, August 31 and September 1. Four at Seeswood on May 17, two on May 21 and four on June 4. One at Earlswood on May 15, two on July 26 and one on September 16. Three occurred at Draycote on June 2. Worcs Four at Bittell on May 13 was the only spring record. At Upton Warren four occurred on August 14 with one till 17, one on August 30, three the next day and one from September 4 to 6. At Bittell one on August 14, two on 30 and one on September 1 2. Two at Westwood ort August 14 and one at bckington on October b. Staffs One at Blithfield on April 21, two on May 26 and three on June 30. Up to three were present from August 13 to September 1 apart from 50 on August 14 and 55 and 35 on the following two days and five on August 31. Two at Belvide on May 3 and 15, August 15 and September 13 to 15 with a single from September 30 to October 3 and three from October 8 to 10. Singles at Chasewater on May 13, 22 and June 4 and 7, followed by two on July 8, an adult on August 30, four immatures the next day and one on October 6. At Gailey 66, mainly adults, occurred on August 30. An immature at Doxey from August 13 to 16, one at Copmere on August 15 and two at Tittesworth on May 5, with one on May 12. W Mid Three at Tividale on May 21 and August 18 with one the next day. Singles at Bartley on May 21 and June 6.

1984 Addendum Staffs A late bird at Rudyard on November 4.

Feral Pigeon No records were received.

Stock Dove Warks 20 at Ladywalk on February 7 and up to 13 in September, with similar numbers at Coton in October and November. 35 at Hartshill on December 22. Worcs 70 at Bredon Hill on January 1, 25 at Summerfield on January 20, 95 at Bredons Hardwick on January 31, 70 at Oakley in March, over 100 at Tibberton in April, and up to 30 at Bittell during the year. Autumn flocks included over 400 with Woodpigeons in a maize field at Holt, 80 at Bredons Hardwick in December and 34 at Westwood on December 30. Staffs 14 at Belvide on February 16 and 10 at Blithfield on March 9. W Mid Only recorded from Willenhall and Park Lime Pits. 83

Woodpigeon Warks No large numbers reported. Worcs Up to 750 on maize stubble at Holt on November 17 and 800 at Bittell on December 29. Staffs Up to 800 at Fisherwick on December 14, 600 at Blithtield on December 23 and 1000 at Himley on December 31. W Mid Over 100 in Sutton Park on January 4 and a similar number at Willenhall in April and September. 250 at Swanshurst Park on January 17 fed on beechmast.

Collared Dove Worcs At least 120 at Rodge Hill Quarry on June 8, 40 at Bittell on August 13 and 44 at Little Comberton on December 14. Staffs An increase reported around Fradley, with all year breeding and a maximum count of 42. W Mid 36 at Park Lime Pits on November 17.

Turtle Dove Average: April 25 (50) to September 24 (50) First recorded on April 27 in the Wyre Forest, with the main influx in early May. Most left in August, with the last at Belvide on September 8. Continues to decline. Warks Recorded at 10 sites, with 12 at Kingsbury on July 27 the largest concentration. Worcs Recorded from 30 sites with 10 at Hadley Brook on June 14 and 12 at Lower Moor on July 13. Despite this apparent relative abundance it is reported to be declining quickly in the north of the county, and was said to be low in numbers or absent from many normal localities. Staffs Only reported from Belvide, Blithfield, Little Wyrley, Marchington Camp and Wootton, with no recorded breeding. W Mid Reported only from Clayhanger in May and Aldridge in July.

Ring-necked Parakeet Warks A parakeet, probably of this species, was noted flying over Coton on October 20 GIG. REH. MJI. JAA. Worcs One seen below Frankley Beeches on November 30 SPR.

Cuckoo Average: April 11 (49) to September 5 (48) A very early bird on April 6 at Doxey, but no further reports until April 17, when birds at Highgate Common and Abberton heralded the main arrival. Last seen at Chasewater on September 3. Warks Reported to have been less plentiful than last year, with no reports of more than three birds at any site. 84

Staffs The RSPB survey revealed 19 pairs on the Moors per FCG. One raised in a Fradley garden by Dunnocks left the nest on August 9. A juvenile was fed by a Reed Bunting at Tittesworth. W Mid Two or three calling in Sutton Park.

Barn Owl A good increase in records this year, but mostly in the winter. Warks Reported from Alvecote, Coton, Kingsbury (where one perched on the main hide in July), Kings Coughton, Lea Marston (where a pair were reported to have been chot), Middloton; Paokington, Pillorton Prioro, Shustoke, Southam, Walton, Warwick and Wellesbourne Wood. Worcs Reported from Bromsgrove, Clifton, High Green, , Ribbesford, Spetchley, near Strensham, Upton Warren, Westwood, Wilden and Wyre Piddle (dead). Staffs Reported from Aqualate (where three hunted in daylight in February), Brewood, Broad Water, Drayton Bassett, Hopwas, Mill Green Park and Trysull. A dark-breasted bird occurred at Lichfield on February 2. W Mid One at Tividale on November 13.

Little Owl Warks Reported from 27 sites in North Warwickshire, but from only eight elsewhere. Four were perched on archery targets at Walton Hall one evening in July. Worcs Reported from 37 well distributed sites. Staffs Only reported from 20 sites this year, but there was no suggestion of a decline in numbers. Three called at Little Wyrley in May. W Mid Reported from 10 localities, mostly around the urban fringe.

Tawny Owl Recorded from few sites this year, but there was no suggestion of any decline. Warks Only reported from eight sites, but said to be fairly common in the Walton-Wellesbourne Wood area. Worcs Reported from 15 sites. Staffs Reported from 18 sites. W Mid Records from eight sites.

Long-eared Owl Warks Bred at one site in the county. Singles in the north and at Brandon during January. Worcs Heard in the Broadway area on January 30. Staffs Present in June at two sites on Cannock Chase. Up to three roosted at Park Hall in January and one on December 29. One in the Manifold Valley on April 28.

1975 Addendum Staffs A young bird was heard calling at Hanchurch on June 12. 85

Short-eared Owl

Warks Two at Brandon on February 21 and a late bird at Coton on May 28. The Tame Valley hosted a large influx during the autumn, with one at Lea Marston on October 26 increasing to six from November 2 to 10 then generally three until the end of the year, but four in early December. At Kingsbury one from October 26 to November 2, one on December 7 and up to three from December 15 to the end of the year. At the Curdworth end of Minworth Sewage Farm there were four on November 4 and six during early December. Finally one was at Nether Whitacre on December 27. Worcs Singles occurred at Holt on January 20, Bredons Hardwick on February 3, Lower Bentley on March 21 and Bittell on September 12 and November 9. Staffs Three at Gib Torr on January 26 and one in March and April. Singles also at Middle Hills in March and Swallow Moss in April, but no evidence of breeding anywhere in the county. One or two birds were again present on the Moors in August, October and December. Singles at Chasewater from January 30 to February 2, Ford Green and Alrewas on February 17, Belvide on February 23, Rugeley Rifle Range on March 29, Doxey from April 16 to 25 (with two on April 26) and Chasewater from April 18 to May 5, with a late bird on May 29. In autumn singles at Doxey on October 2 and from October 16 to 28, with generally up to three from November 16 to the end of the year but five on December 22 and 23 and four on December 31. Singles also at Chasewater on October 28 and November 14, and Aqualate on 86

November 18, with two at Blithfield on November 16 and 17 and one found dead on November 19. Four at Dosthill on December 28. W Mid Singles at Sutton Park on April 16 and Sandwell Valley on April 18, Erdington on October 19 and November 2, Sandwell Valley on November 15, 30 and December 27. One at Barrow Hill, Pensnett, on October 21 was later seen at Brierley Hill Pools.

1982 Addendum Staffs One at Burton on October 19. Nightjar Average: May 15 (45) to August 22 (34) First noted near the German Cemetery on May 28 and Stile Cop on May 30. The last records were on August 29 at Dark Slade and Brindley Heath, and September 11 on Cannock Chase. Worcs A pair was displaying near Kinver Edge on June 14 and one was seen there on June 18. Staffs Records from about nine sites on Cannock Chase, involving around 14 churring males. At Kinver Edge one pair probably reared young.

Swift Average: April 23 (51) to September 24 (51) First recorded on April 19 with two at Belvide followed by birds at several localities in the next two days and the main arrival in early to mid-May. Many local birds had departed by early to mid-August, but one at Warley was seen to fly to a nest site on September 5 and there were many reports of a prolonged, fragmented southerly passage in late August and early September after the wet summer. Last recorded at Belvide on September 21. Warks Hundreds flew south on August 12 at Kingsbury. Worcs At least 1000 over Crowle on July 21 and 2000 at dusk over Wilden on August 7.

Kingfisher Warks Reported from 13 sites with breeding season records from Alvecote, Atherstone, Bidford, Brandon, Coton, Earlswood, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Preston Bagot and Walton. Worcs Reported from 37 sites with breeding season records from Alfrick, Bittell, , Bredons Hardwick, Dowles Brook, Droitwich, Eckington, Fernhill Heath, Fladbury, Grimley, Hadley, Harvington Island, Holt, Larford, Lower Moor, Powick, Redcliff, Rhydd, Ripple, Shrawley Wood, Stanford, Stourport, Stourvale Marsh, Upton Warren, Wilden and Wolverley. Staffs Reported from 23 sites, but mainly during winter. The only breeding season records came from Belvide, Doxey, near Newton Solney and Stourton. W Mid Noted from 12 sites, mostly during autumn and winter. 87

Hoopoe Worcs One was at Droitwich on November 11 and at nearby Upton Warren on November 13 and 25 per SMW.

Wryneck Worcs One at Abberton on August 23 per GHP.

Green Woodpecker Warks Reported from Alvecote, Bentley Park, Bishops Bowl, Brandon, Claverdon, Draycote, Earlswood, Harbury, Kingsbury, Kingsbury Wood, Ladywalk (four on October 19), Middleton Hall, Newbold Comyn, Stoneleigh, Ufton Fields and Walton. Worcs Reported from 33 widely distributed sites, with three noted in Happy Valley on September 29. Staffs Reported from 27 sites, but appears to be scarce in the north of the county. Four at Chasewater on October 12. W Mid Reported from Aldridge, Brownhills Common, Dorridge, Edgbaston Park, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Warks Recorded from only 16 sites. Worcs Recorded from 25 sites. Staffs Recorded from 25 sites. W Mid Noted at 23, mostly surburban, sites.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Warks Recorded at only 17 sites, with breeding season records at Bentley Park, Brandon, Claverdon, Compton Wynyates, Kingsbury Wood, Ladywalk, Middleton, Ryton Wood, Walton and Wootton Wawen. Worcs Recorded at 28 sites, with breeding season records from Ankerdine Hill, Bittell, , Callow Hill, Coldridge Wood, Dowles Brook, Droitwich, Grimley, Malvern, Oakley, Pipers Hill, Ripple, Romers Wood, Trench Wood, Westwood Park, Weymans Wood, Wilden and Wythall. Staffs Recorded at 20 sites, with breeding season records from Baggeridge, Belvide, Blithfield, Chillington, Churnet Valley, Hem Heath, Seven Springs and Trentham. W Mid Present in the breeding season at Dorridge and Saltwells Wood, with other records from Edgbaston Park, Pensnett Coppice, Sandwell Valley and Willenhall.

Woodlark W Mid The region's second successive January record was of a bird at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 14 PVI. 88

Skylark Warks Hard weather movements were noted at Hartshill Sewage Farm, whoro 110 on Fobruary 10 inoroaood to 220 two days later. Worcs 250 in the Holt and Grimley area on January 20 and 50 at Wilden the same day. 60 at Rous Lench on February 21, 155 at Bredon Hill on October 29, 340 at Aston Mill on November 10, 65 at Holt on December 27 and 50 flying over Bittell ahead of hard weather on December 29. Staffs 85 were by the River Dove near Sudbury on October 27. W Mid The largest concentrations were 23 at Tividale on January 22 and 22 at Park. Lima Pits on November 10,

Sand Martin Average: March 23 (50) to October 9 (50) One on March 25 at Belvide, but no further reports until the main arrival in early April. Last seen on October 5, also at Belvide. Numbers are still very low, it being difficult to find any on spring passage. Warks 30 reported from Kingsbury on July 14 and nine at Shustoke on April 22. Two to three pairs bred in the river bank at Ladywalk compared with none last year. Worcs 50 were seen at Westwood on April 21, and 10 accompanied 1000 other hirundines at Upper Mitton Tip on June 18 and 29. 50 pairs bred at Beckford, six to eight pairs at Lower Moor, and four to six pairs at Holt, but none at Grimley. Staffs 20 reported from Belvide in late April and 35 from Blithfield on April 14. There were 40 at Chasewater on May 20 and 235 on August 17. 80 were seen at Belvide in late July, 30 at Blithfield on August 24 and 15 at Chillington on September 1. Only 25 active holes in the colony at Fatholme compared with 40 in 1984.

Swallow Average: April 1 (51) to November 3 (51) Prompt arrival, with the first at Lower Moor on March 31 and many reports in early April. Widely reported throughout October, and two very late birds at Fillongley on November 20. Numbers were small. Warks Over 50 were seen in the Tame Valley on April 28 and 50 were at Seeswood on April 30. Autumn maxima of 450 at Ladywalk on September 9 and 120 at Kingsbury on October 7. Five late birds at Arley on November 7 and 8. Worcs Spring maxima of 300 at Westwood on April 21 and 70 at Upton Warren on April 26. There were 500 in the Oakley roost on September 6 and 10. Staffs Of about 1000 hirundines at Blithfield on April 25, half were Swallows. At Chasewater 150 had gathered on April 27, but autumn numbers did not exceed 30. Over 80 were at Himley on September 9. 89

The Doxey roost held a maximum of about 1000 birds, while the Ford Green roost was well up to strength. Birds with aberrant pale plumage were seen at Ford Green on several occasions in September PGB. Two at Branston on November 13.

House Martin Average: April 9 (51) to October 31 (51) First noted at Kingsbury on April 1, with the main influx beginning a week later. Widely reported until October 13 and last seen on October 28 at Evesham. Warks The only sizeable flocks reported were 50 in the Tame Valley on April 28 and 50 at Alvecote on May 28. Worcs 150 at Westwood on April 21 was the only large spring concentration. 700 were seen at Westwood on June 6, 300 at Wilden on July 28, 100 at Holt on August 30 and 800 at British Camp Reservoir on September 22. There were 22 nests beneath Knightwick footbridge. Staffs Spring counts of 150 at Westport on April 12, 500 at Blithfield on April 25, and 600 at Belvide in early June. Autumn flocks of over 1000 at Blithfield on September 1, 80 at Himley on September 2, 100 at Codsall on September 21, 200 over Lichfield on September 22, 200 at Doxey on September 23, 120 at Chasewater on September 28 and 100 at Belvide on October 8. There were 26 nests on Hanchurch Water Tower compared with 29 in 1984 EWL.

Tree Pipit Average: April 8 (48) to September 20 (46) Reported from Chasewater and Malvern Hills on April 5 and from several widely-scattered localities in the following few days. Little information on departure, but three September records with the latest in the Sandwell Valley on September 18. Warks Ten reported from Bentley Park on June 18 and singles from Earlswood and Wootton Wawen. Worcs A passage bird noted at Bittell on April 18 and singing birds reported from near Atch Lench (five), Bredon Hill, Castlemorton Common, Chadbury, Hangmans Hill (four), Harvington (two), Happy Valley, Holt, Old Hills Common, Ragged Stone Hill (three), Shrawley Wood, south Malverns (three). Trench Wood, Upton Warren and Wyre Forest (seven). Staffs Passage birds noted at Belvide, Chasewater, Doxey, Hanchurch Pools, Hartshill, Keele and Westport. Breeding season records came from Brocton (eight), Coombes Valley (two), Downs Banks (three), Hopwas Wood (three), Maer Hills (seven), Marchington Camp, and Seven Springs (two). W Mid Passage birds noted in Sandwell Valley and singing birds in Sutton Park (three) and Willenhall Memorial Park (one). 90

Meadow Pipit Warks Two or three pairs bred at Lea Marston. Autumn flocks of 34 at Newbold Comyn on September 25 and 80 at Ladywalk on October 28. Worcs Breeding season records from Bredons Hardwick, Castlemorton Common (three pairs) and the Malverns. There were 100 at Bittell in late April, 100 at British Camp on September 9, 150 on North Hill on September 20 and a southerly passage of 90 at Upton Warren on October 10. Staffs A winter flock of 45 at Fisherwick on January 12 and a spring passage flock of over 40 at Belvide on March 31. Six pairs bred at Doxey compared with 12 in 1984. W Mid Winter records of 150 in Sandwell Valley on January 3 and six at Edgbaston Reservoir on February 10, a spring passage flock of 30 at Park Lime Pits on March 31 and a late autumn flock of 28 at Tividale on December 12, where two to three pairs bred.

Rock Pipit Warks Three were seen at Draycote on October 10. Worcs One at Larford on March 9, two at Holt on October 20 and one at Wilden on October 22. Staffs One remained at Chasewater from January 2 to March 14, another was seen on May 24 and one was present from October 5 to November 11. Singles were also at Belvide from September 9 to November 11 and Westport on September 24 and October 28, while up to two were at Blithfield from October 13 to November 26. W Mid One in the Sandwell Valley on October 18 and 19.

Water Pipit 91

Warks Singles at Lea Marston from January 2 to 26 and at Kingsbury on April 28 JAA. Worcs Up to seven roosted at Wilden between January 21 and April 3. One then returned on October 25 and four roosted on November 5 PGG et al., but thereafter only one was seen RM. Staffs . One at Belvide on November 14 ICW. Singles at Chasewater between January 4 and March 2 GE, ARMB, JB, and November 9 to December 28 GE, ARMB.

1984 Erratum Warks The Draycote entry should be amended to read one on March 10 and two on March 24 ARD. Worcs The record at Holt on November 4 should be deleted.

Yellow Wagtail Average: April 1 (49) to October 11 (49) Punctual arrival with the first at Ladywalk on April 1 and many reports over the next few days. Widespread until early October and last seen at Kingsbury on November 2. Warks Spring gatherings of 20 at Seeswood on April 26 and 200 at Draycote on April 28, including a possible M f flava X M f flavissima SMW. 60 were at Kingsbury on August 7 and a late bird at Coton on October 20. Worcs Passage noted on April 26, when 20 to 30 at Bittell and 70 at Upton Warren. A late bird was at Upton Warren on October 4. Said to be more local than normal away from the Avon Valley RM. Staffs Spring flocks of 40 at Blithfield on April 21, 45 at Chasewater on April 24, over 70 at Belvide on April 29 and 22 at Westport on May 22. In autumn 60 at Blithfield on September 1 and 32 at Chasewater on September 13, but no large roost at Doxey this year. W Mid' Breeding reported from Tividale, where 25 were seen on August 29.

Blue-headed Wagtail Individuals with blue or blue-grey crowns and white supercilia were reported as follows, though in several instances other characters, such as rather pale or white-centred ear-coverts, and/or extensively white throats, indicated that variants or intergrades rather than pure M f flava were involved: Worcs A male at Bredons Hardwick on April 8 SMW, a female at Upton Warren on April 26 GDL and a male on May 20 SLH, and two males at Larford on May 4 BW. Staffs A male at Chasewater on April 14 GE and another at Blithfield between April 21 and May 19 GIG et al.

Grey Wagtail Warks Reported from Claverdon, Draycote, Earlswood, Kingsbury, Newbold Comyn, Seeswood and Shustoke. 92

Worcs Reported from five sites in the breeding season and from 17 sites during the winter with a maximum of four at Wilden. Staffs Breeding season reports from four sites, with three pairs at Trentham. .Winter records from 16 sites. W Mid Reported in the breeding season at four sites including the centre of Birmingham, where a bird was singing strongly by Snow Hill Station. Winter sightings at 14 locations.

Pied Wagtail Warks The only flock of note was 35 at Seeswood on December 22. Worcs 200 flew over Westwood at dusk on January 3. Autumn flocks of 100 at Wilden on August 7, 48 at Bittell on September 12, 40 at Upton Warren on October 2 and 400 at Oldington on November 3, while 100 roosted on Redditch Central Police Station on November 12 and 100- 150 roosted at Grimley in November. Staffs Spring flocks of 29 at Chasewater in March and 30 or more at Doxey in late May, while 99 roosted at Chasewater on October 12. W Mid Up to 50 at Willenhall Memorial Park in September and over 400 at Tividale between October 27 and 29. 140 roosted at Warwick University on September 6.

White Wagtails were reported as follows: Warks Little Packington (one) on March 23, Draycote (five) on April 13, Coton (three) on April 28 and Seeswood (two) on May 2. Worcs Upton Warren between April 6 and May 2, Knightwick on April 7, Holt the next day, Larford on April 11 and 28, Westwood (three) on April 11, Wilden on April 14 and Bredons Hardwick from April 5 to 13. Staffs Recorded from Chasewater between April 8 and May 18, with a maximum of 13 on April 15. Elsewhere up to two at Belvide in April, one at Westport on April 10, one at Blithfield from April 28 to May 5, one at Gailey on May 6 and five at Tittesworth on May 6. W Mid Singles reported from Brierley Hill Pools on April 21 and 22, Sandwell Valley on April 21, Sutton Park on April 18, and up to seven at Tividale between April 20 and May 27.

1984 Addendum Staffs Five at Tittesworth on April 15.

Dipper Worcs Reported from Teme Valley, Dowles Brook (four pairs) and Sling Pool. Staffs Breeding season records from Coombes Valley, Deep Haye, Gradbach and Greenway Bank. Non-breeding records from Consall, Dimmingsdale, Foxt, Himley and Oakamoor. W Mid An adult and two immatures were at Belle Vale on Lutley Gutter, a tributary of the Stour, on May 17. 93

Wren Staffs The CBC census showed 10 pairs at Hem Heath compared with nine in 1984, and seven pairs at Doxey compared with four in 1984.

Dunnock t Staffs Eight pairs at Doxey compared with two in 1984.

Robin Worcs A pair nested in a plastic garden refuse sack in West Hagley. Staffs The CBC census revealed three pairs at Doxey compared with none in 1984 and eight pairs at Hem Heath compared with nine in 1984. 52 were singing at Chasewater on October 12. W Mid Nine were singing in the Sandwell Valley on May 9.

Nightingale Average: April 18 (51) to August 8 (13) First reported on April 22 at Little Goosehill and Trench Woods, but not noted elsewhere until early May. No information on departure. Warks At least five were singing at Kineton on May 8 and six at Wellesbourne Wood on May 20. Worcs Singing birds reported as follows: Bredon Hill (one), Fillet Wood (two), Goosehill Wood (four), the Lenches (five), Roundhill Wood, Tiddesley Wood (three). Trench Wood (11) and Upper Strensha'm (two).

Bluethroat ! W Mid A male of the Red-spotted form was seen in a Longbr'idge garden on May 14 EA. This constitutes the third regional record, and coincided with a fall of this species on the east coast. First seen picking up food from amongst the plants in our garden and our neighbour's garden. Mainly brown with a rounded tail that stuck up like that of a Wren. Similar in size to a Robin, but with a white eye-stripe, blue throat patch with a rust centre and black edges, and a rust patch near the base of the tail.

Black Redstart Warks Breeding reported from GEC at Rugby PR, but a female on May 5 SLC, was the only record from Hams Hall where failure to breed ended the following sequence:

1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985

No of pairs .1 3 2 1 2 1 2 1 1 2 1/2 0

Worcs One on Bredon Hill on October 12 AFJ. W Mid Two pairs bred in Snow Hill GDL, RRH and one pair at the rear of County Hall, Birmingham GP, KAH, ARMB, PS. Singing birds were also present at another city centre site and at Hockley. A male sang 94

throughout the season at Tividale, where there was a late sighting on October 14 CtW, whilf» at Onkpr Hill a malp was wen nn April 19 and a pair on August 6 AJW. Passage birds were in the Sandwell Valley from April 12 to 15 PG, TCH, PMH, PAFand a Tipton garden on May 15 GW.

Redstart Average: April 9 (49) to September 23 (48) First noted at Crowle on April 5, but scarce until the last week of April. One or two reports until mid-September and last seen on October 4 at Stour Hill. Warks Four singing males at Bentley Park. Passage birds at Brandon, Kingsbury, a garden in Leamington, Wellesbourne Wood and Alvecote, where three late birds on September 18. Worcs Uncommon in the Avon Valley and still absent from many former haunts around Kidderminster. More apparent in the Teme Valley and western districts RM. Singing males reported from Brazier's Wood, Bredon Hill (four), Cadmore Brook (two), Chase End Hill, Crowle, Devil's Den (two). Haws Hill, Motlins Hole, Malvern (seven). Perry Wood (two), Rock Coppice, Stanford, Uckinghall, Weymans Wood, Wolverley Court and Wyre Forest (six). Staffs Passage birds noted at Belvide, Chasewater, Dosthill Hall, Westport and Westlands. Singing males reported from Brocton (four), Consall — Cheddleton (three), Coombes Valley (four) and Rudyard (two). IN Mid Singing birds reported from Ashmore Park, Erdington and Sutton Park (three). Passage birds noted at Woodgate Valley, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park, and a late bird was seen in a Halesowen garden on September 19.

Whinchat Average: April 23 (49) to October 5 (45) One on April 15 at Doxey was followed by a more general influx from April 26 to 28. Most had departed by mid-September, with the last in Woodgate Valley on October 10. Warks Passage birds seen at Kingsbury on May 4 and September 22, and breeding reported from Hams Hall and Ladywalk. Worcs Passage birds reported from Arrow Valley Park, Castlemorton Common, Eckington on October 10, Holt, Oakenshaw and Wilden. Breeding season records from: Bittell, Grimley, Oakley, Stourvale Marsh (two or three singing), Upton Warren and Wolverley Court. Staffs Breeding reported from Cannock Chase, Doxey and the Moors, where the RSPB survey found 51 pairs which must represent the bulk of the region's breeding birds. Noted on passage at Belvide, Blithfield, Chatterley Pools, Chasewater, Hanchurch Pools and Kingswood. W Mid Breeding reported from Tividale and passage birds seen at Ashmore Park, The Lunt, Sutton Park, Park Lime Pits and Woodgate Valley. 95

Stonechat Warks One at Newton Regis on January 13 and singles at Kingsbury on October 26 and from December 7 to end of year (a female). A male at Binton Wood on November 13. Worcs A male at Castlemorton Common on January 6 followed by a female on January 9, one at Strensham on February 3, a pair in the Holt area from November 24 to December 22 and a male at Castlemorton Common on November 29 and 30, followed by a pair on December 14. Staffs An unexpected four pairs were found on the Moors during the RSPB survey. Two pairs were reported to have bred on Cannock Chase and a female was seen on Rugeley Rifle Range on December 3. Up to three males, three females and a juvenile were at Doxey between January 1 and March 3, followed by two females on November 3 and a female from December 15 to the end of year. W Mid A pair at Tividale between January 1 and February 13, and again from October 23 through to December. Singles were also seen "in the Sandwell Valley from January through to February 25, on June 2 and from October 12 to end of year. In Sutton Park a male was at Longmoor on September 9 and a pair on November 5, with a female in the central heathland from October 7 to the end of year and another at Powells Pool from November 10 to the end of year. An immature was seen in Hampton-in-Arden on November 3, with one at nearby Bradnocks Marsh on November 9, and one was at Clayhanger on November 8.

Wheatear Average: March 22 (48) to October 14 (49) First reported on March 26 at Sandwell Valley, then a scattering of birds on the last two days of the month. Most left in mid-to-late September, with the last two at Blithfield on October 20. Warks Spring passage reported from Alvecote, Coleshill, Coton and Galley Common, with autumn birds noted at Coton and Kingsbury. Worcs Noted on spring passage at Bittell, Bredon, Castlemorton Common, Crowle, Grimley, Perdiswell and Upton Warren, and on autumn passage at Bittell (October 13), Bredon Hill, Crowle (four). Holt (four) and St. Anne's Well, Malvern (six). Staffs Noted on spring passage at Belvide, Blithfield, Chasewater, Chatterley Pools, Doxey, Fisherwick, Hanchurch Pools, Kingswood and Westport. Autumn birds noted at Belvide. Blithfield, Chasewater from August 10 to October 7, Doxey and Westport. The RSPB survey of the Moors found 57 pairs. W Mid Noted on spring passage at Barr Beacon, Bartley, Brierley Hill Pools, Sandwell Valley (28 on April 3), Sutton Park and Tividale (10 on May 6). Autumn records from Bartley, Brierley Hill Pools, Sandwell Valley, Sutton Park and Tividale. Two pairs bred at Turners Hill. 96

Ring Ouzel Average: April 2 (29) to October 20 (23) First noted on March 31 at Tividale and on the Moors, with the main passage in mid-April, by which time birds had returned to their moorland breeding haunts. Little information on departure, but usual late passage on the Malverns with the last on September 29. Warks One was at Brandon on April 5. Worcs Two females and a male were at Walton Hill on April 2, one. on the Malverns on April 21, a male at Alvechurch on the unusual date of July 12, 16 in Happy Valley on September 19 and nine at St. Anne's Well, Malvern, on September 29. Staffs The only records came from the Moors, where the RSPB survey found a total of 61 pairs. W Mid One at Trittiford Park on April 6, a female in Sandwell Valley on April 18 and a male at Brierley Hill Pools on April 23 and 30. A male in Sandwell Valley on September 18.

Blackbird Worcs 50 counted at Upton Warren on October 24. Staffs 100 around Hodge Lane, Amington, on January 27. 20 pairs nested at Doxey compared with five in 1984. W Mid One sang from a Christmas tree in the centre of Birmingham on December 4 MHK.

Fieldfare Average: October 2 (50) to May 1 (49) Several reports until mid-April, but only a few stragglers thereafter with the last at Kingswood on May 6. Late returning, with the first report on October 15 at Chasewater, but a rapid influx thereafter. Scarce during the cold weather of January and February. Warks The largest winter flocks were 40 at Alvecote on January 1, 200 at Earlswood on March 20 and 50 at Howe Green on April 2. Autumn flocks were more widespread, with 100 at Ladywalk on October 16, over 1000 at Kingsbury on November 30, 150 at Baddesley Ensor on December 7, 350 at Newbold Comyn on December 12, 450 at Coton on December 14 and 150 at Alvecote on December 28. Worcs Winter numbers showed a considerable increase on those of the previous autumn, with "several thousand" at Longley Green during January, over 1800 in the Kyre Pool roost on January 3, 5500 in the Yeald Wood roost on January 16 and 300 at Grimley on February 5. Widespread in the autumn, with 160 at Upton Warren on October 19, 250 at Ripple on November 13, 500 in the Lower Avon meadows on December 23, at least 1200 in the Pershore area on December 27 and 1000 at Bredons Hardwick (eight Redwing) on December 29. Staffs A pair again bred on the Moors, close to a site occupied five years ago, but the birds seem to move about a great deal from year to year (RSPB 97

survey per FCG). Notable winter flocks included at least 1000 on Stafford Common on January 13, 250 at Blithfield on March 17, 750 at Trentham on March 25, 200 at Swynnerton on March 29, 220 at Hanchurch Pools on March 30 dropping to 140 by April 4, over 800 in Aqueduct Covert on April 8 and a late flock of 200 at Branside on May 5. The only sizeable autumn flocks were at least 600 at Belvide on December 2, 300 at Doxey on December 4 and 420 at Fisherwick on December 14. W Mid Apart from a few singles and small parties, the only flocks reported were of 130 flying south over Langley on December 12 and 105 at Willenhall on December 31.

Song Thrush

Staffs One pair bred at Doxey compared with three in 1984.

Redwing Average: September 27 (51) to April 18 (50) Most had left by early April and the last record came from Sandwell Valley on April 17. First of the autumn at Brierley Hill Pools on September 30, followed by a large influx in the third week of October. Very scarce during the cold weather of January and February: Warks The only winter flock reported was 20 at Alvecote on March 20. Autumn birds were rather few compared with Fieldfares, with 66 at Ladywalk on October 15, 100 at Kingsbury on November 30 and 250 at Newbold Comyn in November and December the most reported. Worcs The only winter flock was several thousand roosting at Suckey in January. 1000 in the Pershore area on December 27, 200 at Bittell on December 29, and 1500 at Bonemill, Stourport, on December 30 were the only sizeable autumn flocks. Staffs The only winter flocks of any size were of over 1000 at Stafford Common on January 13, and at least 100 at Hodge Lane, Amington, on January 27. Autumn birds were scattered, with the 1200 at Himley on December 31 the only flock to exceed 300. IN Mid Winter flocks of 30 at Edgbaston Reservoir on January 19 and 100 at Coundon Wedge on January 30. Autumn flocks of 300 at Netherton and 350 at Willenhall Memorial Park on December 31 were the only ones reported. Mistle Thrush Warks 39 were seen at Ladywalk on September 22 and at least 10 at Middleton Hall on October 16. Staffs 24 were seen at Elmhurst, near Lichfield, on August 18 and 16 at Chasewater on September 3. W Mid 20 were seen in Sutton Park on August 22, 21 at Willenhall Memorial Park on November 13 and over 70 in the Sandwell Valley on September 22. 98

Grasshopper Warbler Average: April 18 (49) to August 23 (39) An exceptionally early rocord from Woctwood on April 5, but none thereafter until April 16. Thinly distributed by late April. Little information on departure, but noted at Sandwell Valley on August 7 and Bittell in mid-month. Continues to be local and absent from much suitable habitat. 40 singing males at 24 localities was a slight improvement on last year. Warks Reeling birds heard at Bentley Wood (one), Brandon (one), Dordon (one), Kingsbury (two), Salford Spinney and Wellesbourne Wood. Worcs Heard at Abberton (one), Arrow Valley Park (four), Bishampton Bank, Bittell (one), Castlemorton Common (two), Crowle (one), Oakley (one). Trench Wood (three), Upton Warren (one), Wilden (two) and five at a locality in the south-east. Staffs Reeling birds were reported from Chasewater (two), Churnet Valley (one), Gib Torr (one), Leacroft (one), Sudbury (one) and by the River Anker at Tamworth (three). W Mid Two birds in the Sandwell Valley were the only records. Savi's Warbler Worcs A bird was seen and heard at Upton Warren between May 11 and 19 RRH, SMW et al. This is the seventh record for the region, the last being on July 5, 1977. A large robust Locusiella with long, prominent bill and heavy, broad and quite long tail. Forehead, crown, nape, mantle, rump and inner wing warm dark chocolate-brown, completely without streaks. Upper tail very dark brown with general rounded appearance and with one or two feathers protruding slightly. Slim, pale off-white supercilium extending just beyond eye and slim dark line through eye. Ear-coverts grey-brown with a very slight pale creamy-brown eye ring. Throat bright white, chest and belly dull greyish- fawn with warmish orange flanks and pale long undertail coverts. Legs and feet dark pinkish-flesh, almost purple. Tertials, secondaries and primaries very dark brown and plain. Tertials short with a reasonable length wedge-shaped wing point. Bill horn-grey, gape bright orange and iris dark. A typical reeling song with short and long bursts of lower pitch than that of a Grasshopper Warbler.

Sedge Warbler Average: April 16 (49) to September 29 (43) First arrival on April 1 7 at Doxey, but the main influx did not occur until May 4 to 6. Steady departure of late birds through September, with the last at Abberton on October 12. Warks Singing birds were noted at Alvecote (two), Brandon, Earlswood, Kingsbury (15) and Middleton Hall. A family party at Broom in July. Worcs Singing birds reported from 18 sites, the maxima being six at Bredons Hardwick, seven at Lower Moor and 14 at Wilden. Staffs Singing birds reported from Belvide (three), Blithfield, Chasewater (four) where 18 were ringed in July, Doxey (26), Fisherwick (two) and Westport (six but only three pairs). W Mid Reported from Bartley, Brierley Hill Pools, Tividale (two) and Trittiford Park. 99

Marsh Warbler Average arrival: June 1 (35) Returned to the main breeding area on June 2. Worcs A dramatic decline, with only 16 or 17 breeding pairs at 13 sites, plus another 11 or 12 unpaired males. Of those ringed in 1984, 48% of adults returned, but only 14% of juveniles MGK. A disturbing situation for this important population.

Reed Warbler Average: April 26 (45) to September 23 (39) An early record from Oakley on April 13, but few further reports until late April and early May, when the main arrival began. Several reports until early October and last noted at Belvide on October 20. Warks Singing birds reported from Alvecote (six), Kingsbury (four) and Ladywalk (eight). Worcs 53 singing birds reported from 18 localities, with maxima of eight at Lower Moor, nine along 1 mile of R. Avon at Birlingham and 15 at Oakley. Staffs Singing birds noted at Chasewater (two, but nine later ringed), Chillington, Copmere and Doxey (three). Passage birds seen at Westport and at Belvide un October 14. W Mid Five birds were heard at Brierley Hill Pools and one at Tividale.

Lesser Whitethroat Average: April 21 (49) to September 19 (49) Typical arrival, with the first at Upton Warren on April 20 and the main influx beginning a week later. Most had left by mid-September, with the last at Crowle on October 8. Warks Singing birds reported from eight sites with a maximum of six at Kingsbury. Worcs A total of 58 singing birds reported from 40 localities, with a maximum of five at Abberton. A late bird was seen at Crowle on October 8. Staffs 11 singing birds reported from seven localities, with a maximum of three at Belvide. Spring and autumn passage birds were seen at Westport. W Mid Singing birds reported from eight sites with maxima of three each at Brierley Hill Pools and Sandwell Valley.

Whitethroat Average: April 15 (51) to September 25 (51) Slow arrival, with the first at Chasewater on April 20 and the main influx not until early May. Few reports after mid-September, but a late bird at Brewood on October 7. Warks A total of 31 singing birds reported from seven sites, with maxima of 10 at Kingsbury and 12 in the Ladywalk area. 100

Worcs A total of 91 singing birds reported from 26 localities, with maxima of 10 at Old Hi"? fnmmnn, 11 at Stniirvale and 13 at Wilden Staffs 18 singing birds reported from eight localities. Six were seen at Chasewater, where 11 were ringed in the dam marsh, and seven were seen along 3km of railway line at Wombourne. W Mid Singing birds reported from Brierley Hill Pools (four), Park Lime Pits, Sutton Park, Tividale (three) and Woodgate Valley (three). Garden Warbler Average: April 22 (48) to September 8 (47) An early bird at Tittesworth on April 10 with a few sightings in the ensuing days, but no sizeable influx until early May. Few records after mid-September, but a late bird at Trittiford Park on October 8. Warks Singing birds reported from Alvecote (two), Bentley Park (three), Brandon (four), Earlswood (four), Kingsbury (six), Ladywalk (six), Middleton Hall (two) and Ufton Fields (two). Worcs 77 singing birds reported from 23 localities with maxima of eight along Dowles Brook, 10 at Trench Wood and 12 at Island Coppice. 39 adults were trapped in 9 ha of small-leaved lime coppice at Shrawley Wood, including 20 females with brood patches SWW, SEC. Staffs Singing birds reported from Belvide, Blithfield (four), Chasewater, Churnet Valley between Froghall and Cheddleton (10), Coombes Valley, Hanchurch Pools (three), Maer Hills (11) and Westport (three). W Mid Singing birds reported from Brierley Hill Pools, Brownhills Common, Sutton Park and Willenhall Memorial Park. A late bird was seen in an Erdington garden up to September 25. Blackcap Average: April 4 (5) to October 7 (48) Migrants began to arrive around March 31, when one at Trench Wood, and the species was widespread by the second week of April. Several reports until mid-October, with one- at Droitwich on October 16. Subsequent records probably involved wintering birds. Warks Breeding season records from 12 localities, with maxima of seven at Earlswood, eight at Ladywalk and 10 at Kingsbury. Over-wintering birds reported as follows: male at Wood End on January 14, female at Claverdon on February 10, male at Hanbury on February 19, two females at Newbold Comyn on December 19 and one at Walton on December 30. Worcs 200 singing birds reported from 47 localities, with maxima of at least 25 at Trench Wood, 1 6 at Wilden, 10 at Old Hills Common and seven at Stourvale. A density of 1.1 pairs per hectare was reported from the small-leaved lime coppice of Shrawley Wood, compared with 2.25 pairs/ha for Garden Warbler SWW and SEC. Over-wintering birds were reported, mainly between January and March, from Broadway, Bromsgrove (five), Cropthorne (two), Crowle (two), Droitwich (two), Eardiston, Evesham, Hollywood, Kidderminster, Matchborough, 101

Redditch, Stourport, Upper Welland, West Hagley and Westwood (two). Staffs Seven males were singing at Keele, 10 at Maer Hills and two at Westport. A male at Trentham on January 25 was followed by two females from February 1 to March 31. A female was at Keele on January 19, a female at Westlands on January 25, a male at May Bank on February 2, a male at Enville on November 11 and a male at Codsall in December. W Mid Singing birds were noted at Edgbaston Reservoir (two), Sandwell Valley (three), Willenhall Memorial Park (two) and Woodgate Valley (three). Wintering birds were reported as follows: males at Knowle on January 3, Halesowen on January 13 and Wall Heath on January 18, a female at Edgbaston Reservoir on February 2 followed by a pair on February 14, a male at Erdington on February 9 and March 24, a female at Northfield from February 10 to 16, a male at Selly Oak on February 17, a female at Solihull on February 18, a male at Stourbridge on February 25, a female at Erdington on February 26, a male in Sandwell Valley on February 27, a male at Four Oaks on February 28, a male at Park Lime Pits on December 6, a female at Knowle on December 13 and males at Wall Heath from December 15 to 19 and Penn Fields on December 21. Wood Warbler Average: April 21 (49) to August 17 (38) An early arrival at Westwood on April 12, but not generally widespread until late April and early May. Little information on departure, but last noted on August 15 at Belvide. Warks Singing birds noted at Alvecote (two), Bentley Park, Earlswood, Ladywalk and Skilts Common. Worcs Surprisingly absent from many sites in the Teme Valley and the west RM. Singing birds reported from Abberley Hall, Bittell, Clent Hills, Coldridge Wood, Eymore (two), Habberley Valley (two), Hillditch Coppice, Holly Bush Roughs, Kendal End, Malvern Hills (two), Nunnery Wood, Ragged Stone Hill, Ribbesford Wood (four), and Wyre Forest (20). A passage bird was seen at Upton Warren on April 27. Staffs Breeding season records from Bednall, Blithfield, Churnet Valley (six), Coombes Valley, Dimmingsdale (two). Gibbet Wood, Hanchurch, Hem Heath Wood, Highgate Common (two), Maer, Nursey Common, Seven Springs (two), and Tittensor Chase. A passage bird was seen at Chasewater on April 27. W Mid Birds on passage at Pensnett, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley and Willenhall Memorial Park, where one in song on July 27. Breeding season records from Moxley and Sutton Park.

Chiffchaff Average: March 16(51) to October 15 (51) Birds at Goosehill and Ripple on March 10 may have been early migrants. Large influx in the first week of April. Many records until 102

mid-October and one at Kingsbury on October 26 was probably the last migrant. Warks A total of 35 singing birds reported from 12 sites, with a maximum of six at Kingsbury. A late bird was seen at Brandon on November 7. Worcs A total of 64 singing birds reported from 23 localities, with maxima of eight at Old Hills Common and 10 at Perry Wood and Trench Wood. Winter sightings at Beckford on January 9, Evesham on January 12, Holt on January 11 and Upton Warren on January 1 and December 7. Staffs Singing birds reported from Blithfield, Chasewater (five), Chillington, Hanchurch (three), Keele (three), and Maer (eight). Winter records came from Doxey on February 2 and Norton Canes on January 16. W Mid Singing birds were noted at the Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, Sandwell Valley (seven) and Sutton Park (11). A wintering bird was seen in the Sandwell Valley from January 1 to 14.

1983 Corrigenda The bird at Blithfield showed characteristics of the Siberian race tristis, while that at Chasewater resembled the Scandinavian race abietinus.

Willow Warbler Average: March 27 (51) to October 5 (51) First noted on March 24 at Westwood, then a strong influx between April 3 and 7. Regular reports until early October, with the last on October 12 at Blithfield. Warks Breeding season records came from Alvecote (five), Brandon (10), Draycote (four), Earlswood (nine), Kingsbury (13), Ladywalk (16), Middleton Hall (12), Nether Whitacre (12), and Wootton Wawen (10). Worcs A total of 115 singing birds reported from 17 localities, with maxima of 25 at Trench Wood and 35 at Old Hills Common. Staffs Singing birds noted at Belvide, Chasewater (22), Churnet Valley between Froghall and Cheddleton (seven), Greenway Bank (five), Hanchurch Pools (seven), Highgate Common (18), Maer Hills (21), Tittesworth (three) and Westport (20, dropping to eight). Nine pairs bred at Doxey compared with six in 1984 and 107 were ringed in the dam marsh at Chasewater in July. W Mid Singing birds reported from Darlaston, Erdington, (three). Park Lime Pits (10), Sutton Park and Willenhall Memorial Park. Noted on passage in an Erdington garden.

Goldcrest Warks Seen in small numbers throughout the year at Walton. An influx of 22 at Newbold Comyn on October 24, with smaller numbers at Alvecote and Clowes Wood during the autumn and winter months. 103

Worcs Breeding season records from Abberley, Bittell, Dowles Brook, Hadley Brook, Lickey, Malvern, Pirton, West Hagley, Westwood and Worcester. 20 were at Bittell on September 29, while smaller flocks were noted at Great Witley, Malvern and Upton Warren during the autumn and winter months. Staffs Present through the year at Belvide, Cannock Chase and Churnet Valley. 15 were at Blithfield on December 22 and six at Barton-under- Needwood in October. W Mid Recorded in the summer months at Knowle, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park. Small numbers recorded from Aldridge, Brierley Hill Pools, Erdington, Halesowen, Park Lime Pits, Shirley and Willenhall during the autumn and winter months.

Firecrest A fairly lean year. Warks One was seen at Kingsbury on January 10 EAH. Staffs One at Keele University on January 1 and 2 DWE and WJL. W Mid A male was watched in a Four Oaks garden on February 22 GMH.

1984 Corrigendum Staffs The bird at Hammerwich was seen on April 16, 1983 not 1984. Spotted Flycatcher Average: May 1 (49) to September 26 (49) First seen on May 5 at Oakley, but not well established until mid- month. Last seen on September 25 at Alrewas. Seems to be scarcer nowadays. Warks Probably bred at Earlswood, Leamington and Middleton Hall. Birds were also seen at Alvecote, Clowes Wood, Newbold Comyn, Seeswood Pool, Stratford and Walton. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from Abberton, Bittell, Bromsgrove, Crowle (four), Fladbury, Hindlip (two), Hadley Brook (two), Stourport, Thorngrove, Upton Warren, Westwood, Worcester and Wyre Forest. Staffs Breeding confirmed only at Belvide. Summer and early autumn records from Cannock Chase, Chasewater, Churnet Valley, Dosthill, Doxey, Fradley, Kettlebrook, Mile Oak, Nabb Lane, Tamworth and Westport. W Mid Pairs bred at Aldridge, Erdington, Sneyd, Sutton Park and Willenhall. Passage birds reported from Bartley, Halesowen, Park Lime Pits, Tividale and Woodgate Valley.

Pied Flycatcher Average: April 21 (39) to September 8 (21) One at Bittell on April 26 was the first of a good spring passage over the next two weeks. Most resident birds had left by mid-August and late reports from Kingsbury on September 21 and Belvide on September 28 probably referred to Continental drift migrants. A good year, with indications of an increase in numbers and range. 104

Warks One at Kingsbury on September 21 was the only record received. Worcs Probably increasing. Passage males were noted at Bittell on April 26 and Lickey the next day, while another sang in a Worcester garden for a few days around May 20. Other singing males were reported from Eymore Wood, Habberley Valley, the Malverns and the Teme Valley (at least five) in May. 24 young were reared from five occupied nest boxes in Lynall's Coppice and Menith Woods. Four pairs were along the Dowles Brook and a separate colony of five pairs is now established near Ribbesford. A female was at Crowle on July 30 and one was at St. Anne's Well, Malvern, on August 10. Staffs A scattering of passage males in spring at Belvide, Bagots Wood, Blithfield, Greens, Hanchurch, Keele, Westport and Yoxall. Singing males were noted on Cannock Chase, Dimmingsdale and Trentham. Six pairs were estimated at Coombes Valley and a further three pairs bred successfully at sites in the south. One was in the Churnet Valley in June and autumn passage migrants appeared at Belvide on August 25 and September 28. W Mid A good number of migrants were reported this year. Males arrived at Pensnett on April 28, Willenhall Memorial Park on April 30, Sutton Park (two males) from late April to mid-May and a female on May 1, and Park Lime Pits on May 4, when there was also a female in the Sandwell Valley. In the autumn a female was at Bromwich Wood on July 30 and other birds were seen at Tividale, Wednesfield and Woodgate Valley (two) in late August.

1983 Addendum W Mid A male was in Willenhall Memorial Park on April 23.

Bearded Tit An average to good autumn influx occurred. Warks At Brandon three arrived on October 20, increasing to seven by November 3. A pair remained at Draycote from December 17 to 29 at least. Staffs At Belvide another pair was present from November 2 to 5.

Long-tailed Tit Many flocks up to 25 were widely reported. Warks Bred at Alvecote and Middleton Hall. 28 were noted at Wootton Wawen on January 27, and 32 at Newbold Comyn on November 14 was the autumn maximum. Worcs Breeding records from Bittell, Kidderminster, Upton Warren, Wolverley and Wyre Forest. Flocks numbering 30 plus were recorded at Bittell, Upton Warren, Westwood and Wyre Forest during the autumn and winter months. 105

Staffs Two pairs at Belvide was the only breeding information received. 40 were at Blithfield on August 13, 34 at Westport on December 18 and 30 in oak trees at Chillington on December 29. W Mid Present all year at several localities just east of Knowle. Flocks were noted moving through Moseley Bog, Park Lime Pits, Sutton Park and Willenhall Memorial Park during the autumn and winter months.

Marsh Tit Only reported from 25 localities in all. Warks A pair probably bred at Alvecote. Summer records also from Bentley Woods, Kingsbury Wood, Merevale, Middleton Hall, Purley Park, Ryton Wood (three pairs) and Seeswood Pool. Worcs Breeding season records from Bredon Hill, Chase End Hill, Hall Wood, Haws Hill, Island Coppice, Pirton, Ragged Stone Hill, Stanford, Trench Wood, Westwood, Weymans Wood and Wyre Forest. Staffs Bred locally at Belvide. Small numbers noted at Blithfield, Gib Torr, Hanchurch and Rudyard. W Mid No records received.

Willow Tit Recorded from only 24 sites this year. Warks Two breeding pairs at Alvecote and Kingsbury Wood and one at Middleton Hall. Worcs Breeding confirmed at Bittell and Hadley Brook, with three family parties there on June 14. Also noted at Atch Lench, Callow Hill, Coldridge Wood, Island Coppice, the Knapp, Larford, Little Comberton, Pirton, Stourvale, Upton Warren, Weymans Wood and Wilden. Staffs Two pairs probably bred at Chasewater, while only ones and twos were seen at Belvide. Blithfield and Rudyard throughout the year. W Mid Bred at Hayhead Wood. Very small numbers seen in Sutton Park and Park Lime Pits.

Coal Tit Records were received from only 13 localities. Warks Noted at Alvecote, Kingley and Newton Gorse. Worcs Recorded in the summer from Bittell, Hagley and Redditch. Staffs Three pairs present in a 20 acre mixed wood at Hem Heath. A flock of 32 was at Seven Springs on January 26. Up to three noted at Belvide from August to December. W Mid Out of breeding season reports from Aldridge, Knowle, Park Lime Pits and Willenhall. 106

Blue Tit Little information received. Warks Four or five breeding pairs at Alvecote. A flock of 100 tits at Ladywalk on July 11 consisted mainly of this species. A partially melanistic individual was seen at Arley in May. Worcs 132 young were reared from 16 nest boxes in Lynall's Coppice and Menith Wood. One pair successfully fledged young from an artificial House Martin's nest in Abberton. Staffs At Hem Heath there were 14 pairs in 20 acres. Four pairs bred at Doxey and at least one pair was successful at Belvide. W Mid Bred at Knowle and Willenhall Memorial Park, where there were five pairs. At the latter site flocks of 70 plus were noted on both September 21 and December 29. A flock of 60 was at Moseley Bog on January 17.

Great Tit Warks Up to four breeding pairs at Alvecote. Worcs 28 young were reared from a total of nine nest boxes in Lynall's Coppice and Menith Wood. Breeding also confirmed at Bittell, West Hagley and Worcester. Staffs Nine pairs were counted at Hem Heath. W Mid Three pairs probably bred in Willenhall Memorial Park, where a flock of 50 was present on September 21. Still present in good numbers in Sutton Park.

Nuthatch Warks Bred at Middleton Hall and at least six pairs at Claverdon. One at Alvecote on October 13 was only the second record there. Elsewhere reported from eight other localities. Worcs Bred at Dowles Brook and Ribbesford. Noted at eight sites elsewhere. Staffs Breeding records from Churnet Valley and Hem Heath. Seen at Belvide, Blithfield, Bonehill, Chillington and Dunstall. W Mid Seven pairs discovered nesting in oak trees in Sutton Park. Reported from 11 other localities, including Sandwell Valley for the first time.

Treecreeper Warks Probably bred at Ladywalk and Middleton Hall. Seen at six other localities, including Newbold Comyn where six were regularly present in the autumn. Worcs Bred at Bittell and in a nest box at Lynall's Coppice. Recorded from only five other sites. Staffs Noted at Cannock Chase and Churnet Valley in the summer. Autumn counts included five at Baggeridge and 12 at Churnet Valley. W Mid Probably bred at Sandwell Valley and in Sutton Park. One was in Trittiford Park on January 24. 107

1984 Addendum Red-backed Shrike

W Mid An adult male was discovered in the Sandwell Valley on July 21 SCH, JJH et al. Despite much searching it could not be found there next day.

Great Grey Shrike Recent regional records seem to reflect the nationwide decline during the 1980s, with just one record this year. Staffs One at Rugeley Rifle Range on March 29 ICW, MDJ.

Jay. Seems to be back to its pre-1983 status. Warks Small numbers seen at 10 localities. Seven roosted at Ladywalk on October 28. Worcs Reported from Bittell, Upton Warren and Westwood. 14 were noted together in the Wyre Forest on March 31 and 12 were at Hartlebury Common on January 3. 108

Staffs Bred at Belvide. Present throughout the year at Chasewater, with seven there on October 12. W Mid Up to eight recorded at Park Lime Hits in the autumn and winter. Frequent in Sutton Park throughout the year. Noted at five other locations.

Magpie Appears to be increasing generally and establishing itself well in towns and cities in the region. Warks Three breeding pairs at Alvecote. Worcs Good-sized flocks were noted, with 50 at both Madeley Heath on February 1 and Upton Warren on February 18. 20 were seen at Ipsley on February 5 and 27 at Oakley on October 13, while the autumn roost at Bittell peaked at 46. Staffs 37 on October 12 was the maximum at Chasewater, while 25 were at Chillington on January 6. On the Moors 21 were noted at Gun Hill on June 2. 42 roosted at Westport on December 23. W Mid Parties up to 23 were reported from Bartley, Harborne, Moseley Bog, Park Lime Pits and Sandwell Valley. Larger totals included 60 at Tocil Wood on February 2, 51 at Aldridge on December 16 and 40 at Willenhall on December 31. Extremely common in Sutton Park, where 100 were noted on December 19.

Jackdaw Warks A party of 80 was at Exhall on September 14. Worcs At least 50 pairs bred in a loose colony on Bredon Hill, 200 flew west over Kyre to roost on January 3 and 330 were at Spetchley on February 23. Staffs 46 flying over Chasewater on November 11 was a locality record. 510 roosted at Maer on January 12. W Mid Reported from Park Lime Pits and Willenhall Memorial Park in the autumn.

Rook Warks There were 65 nests at Sych Wood and up to 500 birds in the air together over Kingsbury on November 2. Worcs 150 nests in a rookery near Throckmorton (where 45 in 1983), 124 at Bishampton, 105 at Shelsley and 40 at Westwood. At Hanbury Park there was a small rookery in planes, while at Warndon seven nests were built on an electricity pylon. 50 at Bordesley was the largest feeding flock noted. Staffs 540 were at Astonefields on February 9 and at least 400 flew over Hockley to roost on several dates in November. Information on rookeries is required. W Mid No records received this year. Any information concerning rookeries would be welcome. 109

Carrion Crow Warks 90 were feeding on stubble at Baddesley Clinton on August 31. Worcs Most of about 1000 corvids feeding on stubble at Holt on November 17 were this species. Staffs 64 on February 13 was the highest total at Chasewater, but 101 were walking on the ice at Blithfield on February 17. W Mid No changes in status reported.

Hooded Crow No records were received.

Raven Remains scarce, with the only records coming from west Worcestershire. Worcs Two were watched flying over Dowles Mill in the Wyre Forest on April 5 AFJ and another was heard on June 13 PG. One was present at Happy Valley, Malvern Hills, on September 28 JS, REH.

Starling Very little information received, but massive roosts appear to be a thing of the past. Warks An estimated 20000 roosted at Kingsbury on October 5. Worcs A leucistic individual was at Madeley Heath from January 31 to March 2. Feeding flocks included 2000 in flooded fields at Fladbury on June 11 and 400 at Upton Warren on August 16. The Washford roost peaked at 30000 in March, but could only muster 2500 on November 14. Staffs 5000 roosted at Aqualate on October 20. W Mid The Birmingham City Centre roost held 56000 birds on February 18.

House Sparrow No changes in status reported.

Tree Sparrow Warks Three breeding pairs at Alvecote. Few flocks were reported, with 75 birds at Hartshill on January 4 and 125 at Kingsbury on February 21 the largest. Small numbers were noted at Newbold Comyn in the autumn. Worcs Noted in the breeding season at Marlcliff and Wilden. In winter 250 were at Winterfold on January 6 and 100 fed on weed heads at Hadzor a week later. Autumn flocks included 125 at Wilden in October and November, and 70 at Holt in November and December. Smaller numbers were reported from Bittell, Arrow Valley Lake, Frankley and West Hagley. 110

Staffs No breeding information was received, but one was found dead on a moorland road with its mate nearby. The largest winter count was 25 at Fradley on February 19. In the autumn 140 plus fed on stubble near Stafford on November 30 and 75 were at Blithfield on December 10. W Mid 75 at Park Lime Pits on January 1 was the largest count. Smaller numbers were seen at Trittiford in January, Wall Heath in February and March, and Sandwell Valley in November.

Chaffinch Warks Up to four breeding pairs at Alvecote. A flock of 160 was at Hartshill on January 3, but the only reported autumn gathering was 30 at Alvecote on December 10. Worcs No breeding information received. In winter 350 were in the Lickey Woods on January 7 and 379 were counted going to roost at Broadway on January 25. In autumn, 250 were back in the Lickeys on November 10, a similar number were also present on Bredon Hill on October 29 and 200 were at Wribbenhall on December 1. Staffs Seven pairs bred at Doxey. A good gathering of 650 was noted at Harley Thorns on February 20 and 130 were at Rushton Spencer on January 1. In the autumn 150 were at Baggeridge on November 13. W Mid Recorded throughout the year at Willenhall Memorial Park. 150 fed on beech mast at Swanshurst Park in January, decreasing in February; 300 were at Warley Woods on January 15; and 120 were at Edgbaston Reservoir on February 2.

Brambling Average: October 10 (50) to April 15 (49) Last spring record from Mill Green Park on April 21. First of the autumn in Wyre Forest on October 13. A poor year. Warks Very scarce. No winter reports, while 15 at Shustoke on October 17 and one at Kingsbury three days later marked a small autumn movement. Worcs Almost absent in the winter and spring. Singles at Lickey Hills on January 1, Dunhampstead on January 5 and in a Bromsgrove garden on February 18. 30 at Lickey Hills on April 9 was the only spring count. In the autumn small numbers included eight at Bredons Hardwick on October 27, with ones and twos also at Goosehill Wood, Larford, Little Comberton and Ombersley Park. Parties of 20 were noted at Bredon Hill, Harvington and Ripple in November, while 35 were at Holt and 70 at Wribbenhall on December 1. Roost estimates of 55 at Great Witley on November 20, 60 at Longley Green on December 23 and 25 at Eymore Wood on December 27. Staffs The largest winter flocks were 62 at Rushton Spencer on January 26, 21 at Whitmore on March 20 and later 40 at Heaton on April 14. Very 111

small parties were noted at Belvide, Beaudesert, Chasewater, Chillington, Hazelslade and Keele. Scarce again in the autumn, with a mixed Chaffinch and Brambling flock of 200 near Brewood on December 15 and very small parties at Baggeridge, Belvide, Blithfield, Chillington and Fisherwick late in the year.- W Mid Quite widespread in the winter, but the only sizeable flock was in Warley Woods, where present from January 1 to March 8 with a peak of 60 on February 22. The peak at Edgbaston Reservoir was 1 5 on January 19. Elsewhere small numbers reported from Erdington, Pensnett and Stourbridge. The only autumn records were four at Bartley on October 24, four at Sandwell Valley on November 28 and one at Sutton Park on December 9.

Greenfinch Warks About six breeding pairs at Alvecote, where up to 10 birds were seen occasionally in the autumn. No other records received. Worcs Breeding noted at West Hagley. 35 were at Bredons Hardwick on October 27 and 200 on Bredon Hill two days later, but winter flocks were said to be less evident than usual although good numbers were at Blnell In December. Staffs Breeding suspected at Pattingham, two broods raised at Fradley, and 140 counted at Fisherwick on December 14. W Mid Probably bred at Aldridge, Sutton Park and Willenhall Memorial Park. In Sutton Park 70 were at Powells. Pool on January 8 and 75 were counted in a single tree at Wyndley on April 9.

Goldfinch Warks The usual three breeding pairs at Alvecote. Autumn flocks of 40 at Kingsbury on September 18 and 102 at Newbold Comyn on September 30. Worcs 30 was the largest winter flock, at Bittell on February 3. At least 50 were estimated at Holt on October 20. Said to be much less common than usual in late summer and autumn. Staffs A fairly common breeding species in the Tamworth district. A flock of 70 plus was in Sherbrook Valley on April 14 and a huge gathering of 500 was reported at Hanchurch on April 29. The only autumn flocks of note were 80 plus at Doxey in early September, 40 plus at Belvide in October and 45 at Dosthill in November. W Mid Breeding suspected in Willenhall and Wolverhampton. Regular in the Willenhall Memorial Park throughout the year, with 135 there on March 10. 44 were counted in Sutton Park on April 1, while a similar number built up in Penn Fields in November. Smaller flocks were noted at Edgbaston and Hall Green in the autumn and winter periods, with the largest concentration 80 plus in the Sandwell Valley on October 3. 112

Siskin Average: October 2 (48) to April 14 (46) Little information on spring departure, but none after April 22 (at Mill Green Park) apart from potential breeding birds. One at Belvide on July 21 may have been the precursor of an influx of Continental birds which began at the end of July and culminated in unprecedented numbers in many areas during September. Warks Only a few winter records, with flocks of 30 at Earlswood on January 30 and 20 at New Close Wood on February 7. More plentiful in the autumn. A dozen had reached Claverdon by September 11, 50 were at Bentley Park on September 16, 22 at Kingsbury on September 18 and 20 at nearby Middleton Hall at the same time. Late September records also came from Ladywalk and Newbold Comyn. 50 gathered in alders at Earlswood on November 23, while other peaks were 65 at Ladywalk on December 2 and 50 at Middleton Hall on December 22. Up to 40 were present at Kingsbury during the autumn and 30 at Newbold Comyn on December 12. The most at Draycote was 20 plus on December 15. Worcs Rather scarce in winter, with a maximum of 40 at Bittell on February 10, 35 at Grimley on January 6, 30 at Sling Pool on January 26 and 25 at Westwood on February 1. Smaller flocks were noted at Churchill, Holt Fleet, Upton-upon-Severn and Weymans Wood, while two were seen near Upton Snodsbury on April 16. Summer records of pairs at Chaddesley Wood, Coldridge Wood, Pershore, Malvern, Sling Pool and Tiddesley Wood suggested possible breeding. The marked September influx included a remarkable 435 at Malvern on September 19, with much smaller numbers at Atch Lench, Bittell, Oakley, Upton Warren and Westwood. Numbers at Bittell then built up steadily to 100 on December 28. After the September influx, December peaks of 230 at Wilden, 94 at Ripple and 80 at Stourport were of note, while parties up to 45 were at Croome, Crowle, Grimley, Kempsey, Larford, Matchborough, Stourport, Trimpley, Upton Warren and Westwood. Smaller groups were widespread, completing an impressive autumn showing. Staffs Winter flocks of 50 at Rudyard on January 4, 56 at Seven Springs on January 26, 105 at Keele on February 16, 90 at Blithfield on February 17 and 40 still around the German Cemetery on April 8. In the north males were present at Maer on May 12 and Hanchurch on July 15. One at Belvide on July 21 was then followed on July 29 by a flock of 40, consisting mainly of females and juveniles, in the Churnet Valley. Seven were then seen on Cannock Chase in late August. These July and August records were probably part of an invasion of continental birds which was evident on the East Coast at the time. Small flocks then appeared at several localities in September, including 37 at Chasewater on September 12. Numbers continued to build up during October, leading to late autumn flocks of 100 at Blithfield on November 113

24, 78 at Shugborough on November 30, over 50 at Belvide on December 6, 120 at Hanchurch on December 8, 100 at Great Haywood on December 26, 150 at Westport in December, 30 at Chillington on December 29 and 40 at Baggeridge and 61 at Newborough on the same day. W Mid Very scarce during the winter months, with a few at Bromwich Wood and a single at Willenhall Memorial Park on February 16. A flock of 12 in a Dorridge garden on August 5 was probably part of the invasion from Europe. Eight were at Brierley Hill Pools on September 11 and seven in the Sandwell Valley a week later. Later in the autumn flocks up to 30 were noted at eight localities, with larger numbers of 80 at Dorridge on November 21, 60 at Trittiford Park on November 23, 35 in Sutton Park on December 16 and 100 at Meriden on December 22.

Linnet Warks Four or five breeding pairs at Alvecote. Very scarce during the winter, but in autumn 200 were estimated at Kingsbury on September 22 and 60 were at Hartshill in December. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Dunhampstead and Old Hills Common. The largest winter flocks were 120 at Areley Kings and Larford on January 27, and at least 100 at Lower Moor on January 12. The spring maximum at Bredons Hardwick was 100 on April 16. Late winter-early spring flocks were also noted at Bittell, Grimley, Oakley and Pirton. In autumn, 100 were at Queenshill on September 8, 70 at Bredons Hardwick on October 27 and 200 at Holt on November 2. Staffs Two or three breeding pairs at Amington. In the spring a flock of over 250 were at Trentham on April 11. In late August 250 were also present at Chasewater. In autumn, 61 were at Westport on October 1, 60 at Kettlebrook Lakes on November 24 and 80 at Fisherwick on December 14. W Mid Breeding records were received from Aldridge, Park Lime Pits, Sutton Park and Tividale. The winter peaks were 100 at Park Lime Pits on February 14, 113 at Willenhall Memorial Park in February and 70 at Edgbaston Reservoir on February 2.

Twite Staffs The RSPB Moors breeding survey revealed a staggering 95 pairs per FCG. A pair was found with Linnets at Hollinsclough Common on July 14 FCG. A flock of 11 was seen at Chasewater on March 2 ARMB. W Mid One was seen with a flock of Linnets at Sandwell Valley on January 12 RCB.

Redpoll Warks Breeding records received from Ladywalk and Newbold Comyn. Small parties recorded at Alvecote, Clowes Wood, Earlswood and Ladywalk throughout the winter. A flock of 30 was noted at Baddesley Ensor on 114

March 23, with 100 there on November 30. Otherwise 41 at Newbold Comyn on October 15 was the largest autumn party. Worcs Breeding season records from some dozen localities. During the winter period 190 were at Atch Lench on March 17 and parties of up to 40 were seen at Crowle, Larford and Trench Wood. Smaller numbers were noted at Bewdley, Bredon Hill and Westwood. During the autumn 100 were at Stour Hill in October and November, and parties of up to 30 were recorded at Crowle, Happy Valley, Malvern, Upton Warren and Wilden. Staffs Probably bred at Chasewater, Gib Torr and Westport. Several large flocks were noted on Cannock Chase between January and April, with the largest being over 300 on January 8, and at least 160 were still present on April 8. Smaller numbers were reported from Belvide, Blithfield, Hanchurch, Highgate Common and Maer during the winter. In the autumn, parties up to 40 were reported from Back Forest, Baggeridge, Belvide, Newborough and Rickerscote. Flocks in excess of 100 were noted at Chasewater on October 10 and Blithfield in early December. W Mid Continues to breed at Oldswinford and probably also at Sutton Park and Willenhall. 30 visited a Knowle garden on January 26 and 65 were at Willenhall Memorial Park on April 9. Elsewhere small numbers were recorded outside the breeding season at Aldridge, Four Oaks, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Shirley and Willenhall Memorial Park.

Mealy Redpoll W Mid A bird showing the characteristics of this race was at Willenhall Memorial Park from March 3 to 17 JR.

Crossbill The summer irruption surprisingly was only noted in two counties. Worcs No breeding records were received this year and the first report was of a party of unknown size that was heard in the Wyre Forest on May 25. The main irruption occurred at the end of June, with 20 being seen at Lickey Hills on June 25, 11 at Clent on June 29 and about 10 at Dales Wood the next day. The Lickey flock had reached 50 by June 30 and included a good proportion of fully-grown juveniles and a female with two slim, white wing-bars SMW. At least 32 were in the Wyre Forest on July 6, when 10 were also found at Chaddesley Wood: these remained till at least August 10 On July 7 about 20 were discovered at Coldridge Wood, but these had gone two weeks later. Ten flew over Besford Bridge on July 9 and about 12 were watched in Deerfold Wood on July 20. Five remained in the Lickeys till July 21, while the Wyre Forest flock maintained a total of around 25 till at least October 13. Other sightings included four at Broadway on September 3, four on Bredon Hill on September 6 and a female at Holt Heath on September 115

15. Finally one was seen in Chaddesley Woods on November 3 and 28 were in Eymore Wood on December 27. Staffs A pair was watched feeding in a larch tree in Stafford on April 6. The first signs of an irruption again came in late June, with about 25 at Hanchurch on June 29 and 40 on Cannock Chase the next day. Two were then noted at Belvide on July 21, two flew over Hanchurch on September 7, one or two males were still on Cannock Chase at the end of September, 15 were at Chillington on October 27 and 20 were at Beaudesert on November 24.

1984 Corrigendum Worcs 35 were seen in the Wyre Forest on May 19 not May 5 MJI.

Bullfinch Warks Three or four breeding pairs at Alvecote. The autumn maximum at Newbold Comyn was 14 on November 14. One or two other smaller parties were noted. Worcs Three pairs present at Harvington Island on June 16. Nine was the September maximum in Happy Valley, Malvern, and 10 were seen at Matchborough on November 28. Staffs Two pairs bred at Westport and three pairs were usually present at Chasewater. A party of 15 was at Hanchurch Pools on January 19. Elsewhere only small numbers were reported. W Mid Reported from four sites within the county.

Hawfinch Worcs Present in the Wyre Forest from February 24 till May 25, the largest number being 13 on March 10. One or two pairs probably bred. Elsewhere up to four present at a site near Stourport between March 9 and April 27 and one or two pairs on the Malvern Hills throughout the breeding season. No autumn records. Staffs Present at Chillington from January 1 to May 5, with a maximum of 21 on January 12. Autumn records were fewer, with one on December 12 and four on December 27. Elsewhere, two or three were at Enville from March 25 to March 29.

1984 Addendum Staffs Four were present in a Burton garden on September 24 and 25 CCO.

Snow Bunting Warks A female or immature was at Draycote from November 27 AC to November 30, when it was joined by a male HDH. A male flew over Kingsbury on December 7 ARD. Worcs A party of five, including two males, was watched closely on Worcestershire Beacon, Malvern, on November 12 PGG and two were still present the next day PHD. 116

Staffs A female was located among Skylarks on rough ground at Longton on January 19 MDS and an immature or female was at Chasewater from November 12 to 14 GE, ICW.

Yellowhammer Warks Five or six breeding pairs at Alvecote, where the largest flock was 50 on February 1 7. A flock at Kingsbury built up to 100 on March 1 6. 40 were seen on the outskirts of Kingsbury Wood on February 6. The autumn peak at Newbold Comyn was 50 on November 14. Elsewhere smaller numbers were recorded. Worcs Bred at Larford and seven pairs were in residence at Old Hills Common on June 2. The only notable winter flocks were 100 at Atch Lench on January 4 and 120 at a Hartlebury grainstore on January 20. 50 were at Lower Bittell on March 9, with the same number at Upton-upon- Severn on April 8. Good numbers reported from Bittell in the autumn. Staffs The largest winter gathering was 25 at Fradley on January 2. Five or six pairs noted on Cannock Chase on June 20. In the autumn, 70 were at Blithfield on November 26 and 30 with Chaffinches near Brewood on December 29. W Mid Numbers breeding in Sutton Park were estimated to be slightly lower than in 1984.

Reed Bunting 117

Warks Seven breeding pairs at Alvecote. No records were received from any other localities. Worcs Six or seven breeding pairs at Upton Warren. A flock of 23 was at Holt on January 11, with a flock of 24 at nearby Grimley on February 5. Normal numbers reported at bittell. Staffs A healthy 48 pairs bred at Doxey Marshes and 47 pairs were found on the Moors. A flock of 20 at Back Forest on January 19. Three pairs were present at Hanchurch Pools on April 20 and nearby Westport had four pairs on May 7. The only autumn or winter flock reported was 20 at Dosthill on November 3. W Mid Two pairs were suspected of breeding at Park Lime Pits; at least five singing males were at Longmoor Pool, Sutton Park, on May 3; and a pair at Willenhall Memorial Park on April 20 was the first recorded there. A pair frequented a Four Oaks garden for several weeks in January and February and one was in a Wall Heath garden in February.

Corn Bunting Warks Singing males reported from Ansty, Alvecote, Bidford, Birdingbury (three). Long Lawford, Lowsonford, Newbold Comyn, Offchurch (two). Over Whitacre and Wellesbourne. Described as well distributed on arable land in the Marston-Minworth area. Two were at Hartshill on January 4, two at Ladywalk on February 9, 40 in a mixed finch flock at Kingsbury on February 17 and 26 at Whateley on March 16. The only autumn record was a flock of 40 at Lea Marston on October 27. Worcs Singing males reported from Bentley, Bredons Hardwick, Bredon Hill, Cropthorne, Doverdale (four), Fladbury (two), Harvington, Holt (three), Larford (three), Ombersley, Peopleton (three), Powick (two), Ripple (three), Ryall, Stoulton, Thicknall (seven), Torton and Upton Snodsbury (two). Peak winter flocks included 110 at a Hartlebury grainstore on January 20, 25 at Holt on January 20, 35 at Mustow Green on February 3 and 53 at Grimley on February 22. Smaller numbers were also seen at Pershore, Stourport and Upton Snodsbury. The peak roosts were 156 at Rous Lench on January 4 and 81 at Wilden on February 12. The only large autumn gathering was 60 at Holt on November 24, with smaller numbers at Peopleton and Throckmorton. Staffs Singing males recorded at Bednall, Belvide, Blithfield, Cannock, Chasewater, Fisherwick (two), Iverley (three). Upper Stonnall and Weeford (two). The peak roost at Chasewater was 39 on February 19. A flock of 40 was at Lichfield on April 6. In the autumn one was seen at Chasewater on November 7 and six at Blithfield on November 10. W Mid Present in the Sandwell Valley from January 7 to April 7, with a peak of 25 on February 21. At Sutton Park, 34 roosted on January 3 and one was seen on November 13. Three returned to the Sandwell Valley on December 8. 118

Exotica

Falcated Teal Worcs An approachable adult male was present on the at Holt Fleet on February 20 and 21.

Ringed Teal Worcs A male was continually present at Upton Warren from May 9 till the end of the year.

New Zealand Shoveler Worcs A male was seen at Lower Bittell on April 6.

Wood Duck Worcs The adult male was still present at Arrow Valley Lake from January 11 to 20.

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Staffs The Chillington bird was still present after nine years.

Cockatiel Staffs One circled Belvide on September 15.

Budgerigar Staffs One noted with House Sparrows at Newcastle on August 5. W Mid Singles seen at Park Lime Pits on August 26 and Dudley on November 1. Monk Parakeet Staffs A pair attending a nest site in the north of the county from April 5 to May 2.

Parakeet sp.

Staffs An unidentified bird was reported from Blithfield on October 18.

Canary W Mid A typically yellow individual was present in Willenhall Memorial Park on November 10. 119

Ringing in 1985

Over the last decade the formation of local ringing groups has enabled more effective use to be made of the ringing recoveries within an area. Prior to the formation of groups it was extremely difficult to obtain any accurate figure of the number of birds ringed within the region, there being so many individual ringers involved. However, the collating of individual ringing totals by local group secretaries has now made it possible, in spite of some ringers remaining outside local groups, to determine fairly accurately not only the number of birds ringed within an area, but more interestingly the top ten groups of birds ringed in any one season. From analysis of the 1985 ringing totals of the major ringing groups of birds ringed in any one season. From analysis of the 1985 ringing totals of the major ringing groups in the region these are as follows:

Group Percentage

Tits 22 Warblers 15 Geese 12 Thrushes 12 Finches 11 Swallows/Marlins 10 Buntings 3 Robins 3 Wrens 2 Gulls 2 Others a

The high percentage of tits ringed, mostly Blue Tits and Great Tits, is to be expected, since they not only comprise the biggest percentage nationally, but the numerous nest-box schemes operating throughout the area provide easy access for ringing pulli. Pleasing numbers of warblers have been ringed and although they can provide exciting recoveries, often the recovery forms hide many spectacular facts. In the Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler recoveries listed here, movements of 211 and 271 kilometres are recorded respectively and yet each, unless it overwintered, has made the journey to Africa and back twice. This year has been especially exciting as far as warblers are concerned, since it marks the first-ever foreign recovery of a British-ringed Marsh Warbler, ringed here in the Midlands by G H Green.

Had this analysis been possible several years ago, gulls would certainly have figured far more prominently, with hundreds being cannon-netted at local reservoirs and rubbish tips. Comparatively few gulls are ringed these days and the high percentage of geese, almost exclusively Canada Geese, is largely the result of a massive effort by ringers over one or two weekends during the flightless moulting period of the geese. The numbers in the Trent Valley have certainly not declined. It has been a disappointing year for thrushes and finches, with very few good roosts being reported, but by far the biggest reported reduction in roosting numbers has come from the hirundines with roosts normally holding in excess of 5000 down to a mere 400-500 birds. 120

The Midland Mute Swan Study still continues, with numbers of birds in the area remaining fairly steady during 1985, while the Gailey Grey Herons have again had a highly successful year with well in excess of 60 chicks being hatched. Recoveries in 1985 continue to give a rich and exciting variety with geese making the moult migration to the Beauly Firth, Teal moving to France and Lapwings to Spain and Portugal. Gull recoveries, especially Black-headed Gulls, as always, continue to figure prominently with many birds moving to Scandinavia and, in addition to the Marsh Warbler, the recoveries for Common Tern and Common Gull are also firsts for the region. The Pied Flycatchers of the Wyre Forest still come home to nest, while recoveries for thrushes and finches give much useful information about movements of these birds to and from the West Midlands.

Finally may I express my gratitude to all the ringers who have, over the past year, sent in ringing recoveries. Their enthusiasm and dedication, often working under very difficult conditions, has done much to improve our knowledge of the birds of the West Midlands. A E Coleman 121

Map of Foreign Recoveries

• = Birds ringed in the West Midlands and recovered abroad.

* - Ringed abroad, recovered West Midlands.

Key— B = Black-headed Gull, BL = Blackcap, C = Chaffinch, L = Lapwing, RW = Reed Warbler, T = Teal, BC '= Blackbird, BR = Brambling, F = Fieldfare, M = Marsh Warbler, S = Snipe, CG = Common Gull. . 122

Selected List of Recoveries Involving the Region Entries are arranged by species and, within species, by recover y dale. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery details on the second. This report includes recoveries for 1985 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years. All foreign recoveries and movements of greater than 100 kilometres (62 miles) are included. Treatment of movements of less than 100 kilometres depends on the species involved.

Key Age at ringing: Sex: Pull Pull us (nestling) M Male Juv Juvenile (young able to fly) F Female 1Y Bird in its first year Manner of Recovery: 2Y Bird in its second year V Caught and released with ring Ad Adult (at least one year old) + Shot or killed FG Full Grown (age uncertain) X Found dead or dying vv Ring read in field ? Manner of recovery unknown

Species Ringer Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

Grey Heron 1095262 Pull 07.05.83 Gailey (Staffs) MRG X 13.02.85 Derrington (Staffs) 11km N

Mute Swan Z 49806 2Y 21.01.84 Caynham (Shropshire) WRG V 27.07.85 Alvecote (Warks) 77km ENE

Canada Goose 5103561 Pull 28.06.81 Brandon (Warks) BRG V 07.07.84 Beauly Firth (Highland) Scotland 594km NNW 5114423 Pull 26.06.83 Brandon (Warks) BRG V 07.07.84 Beauly Firth (Highland) Scotland 594km NNW 5052065 1Y 17.07.84 Kempsey (Worcs) WRG w 10.01.85 Slimbridge () 45km SSW

Teal EJ 45376 Juv.M 17.11.84 Stubbers Green (W Mid) MRG + 01.12.84 Creances, France 380km

Sparrowhawk OR 66084 1Y.M 12.08.84 Alvechurch (Worcs) PU X 20.11.84 Snarestone (Leics) 50km NE 123

Lapwing DN 32639 . 1Y.M 26.10.84 Hallow (Worcs) WRG + 03.01.85 Ribatejo, Portugal 1508km DR 66047 Ad 14.09.80 Hampton-in-Arden (W Mid) PLI X 14.01.85 Zamudio. Bilbao. Spain 101 7km

Snipe 7131626 Ad 29.05.79 Bad Salzungen, Suhl, DDR V 01.10.83 Stubbers Green (W Mid) 862km XS 81973 Juv 02.10.83 Stubbers Green (W Mid) MRG + 22.08.85 Kymi, Finland 2044km

Black-headed Gull EH 70590 2Y 17.01.81 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PU V 28.03.85 Copenhagen, Denmark 1023km EH96106 Ad 16.01.82 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PU V 2205 85 Hjarno, Jylland. Denmark 878km EH 60331 Ad 10.02.78 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PU V 25 05 85 Holwerd, Friesland, Netherlands 545km EH 12582 1Y 28.12.76 Evesham (Worcs) CMH X 26.05.85 Tallinn, Estonia, USSR 1862km EH 70763 1Y 19.12.81 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PU + 17.06.85 Vasterbotten, Sweden 1904km EH 70794 Ad 19.12.81 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PU X 25.06.85 Tampere, Hame, Finland 1863km EH 70695 Ad 19.12.81 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PLI X 25.07.85 Nr Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, FRG 895km EH 96132 Ad 16.01.82 Bromsgrove (Worcs) PU X 03.11.85 Lincoln (Lines) 138km NE. EJ 53679 Ad 28.07.82 Ombersley (Worcs) SWW V 10.11.85 Huddersfield (West Yorks) • 139km N

Common Gull MB 13279 Pull 09.07.84 Guldolmen, Norway X 03.03.85 Draycote (Warks) 1082km

Common Tern XS 56313 Pull 02.08.82 Kingsbury (Warks) MRG + 01.08.85 Wakefield (West Yorks) 127km NNV

Swift SA 74464 Ad 08.07.78 Sutton Coldfield (W Mid) MRG V 22.06.85 Sutton Coldfield (W Mid) Okm SA 98835 Ad 23 07 81 Sutton Coldfield (W Mid) MRG X 13.06.85 Berwick-on-Tweed (Northumberland) 350km N

Sand Martin C 304688 Juv 22.07.84 Errol (Tayside) Scotland V 29.08.84 Stubbers Green (W Mid) 428km SSE C 228393 Juv ,29.08.84 Stubbers Green (W Mid) MRG V 12.09.84 Ely (Cambs) 153km ESE

Swallow C 265433 Juv 15.08.84 Girtford GP (Beds) V 05.09.84 Stubbers Green (W Mid) 122km NW 124

Wren 2H9128 1Y 29.OB.83 Cressage (Shropshire) IW V 01.11.B4 (jadbury Bank (worcs) 75k.ni S

Blackbird 7635661 1Y.M 16.10.83 Heligoland. FRG V 02.12.84 Stourport (Worcs) 713km XE 88359 Ad.F 13.12.81 Norton Green (W Mid) PLI V 31.07.85 Varbasse, Jylland, Denmark 798km

Fieldfare XK 37684 1Y 04.03.84 Brandon (Warks) BRG + 27.01.85 Plailly, France 461km XJ 77614 Juv 28.01.84 Tamworth (Staffs) MRG X 15.06.85 Nordland, Norway 1687km

Song Thrush XK 37762 Ad.M 27.05.84 Brandon (Warks) BRG X 21.01.85 Penarth (Glamorgan) 159km SW XJ 951 27 1Y 26.05.81 Coombe Abbey (Warks) BRG X 20.01.85 Newquay (Cornwall) 340km SW

Marsh Warbler A 2051 51 Pull 05.08.85 Defford (Worcs) GHG X 15.10.85 Karpathos, Dodecanesos, Greece 2968km

Reed Warbler C 378429 1Y 04.08.85 Brandon (Warks) BRG V 26.08.85 Christchurch (Dorset) 187km S C 669041 1Y 01.09.85 Brandon (Warks) BRG X 15.09.85 Angers, France 550km

Blackcap A 481469 1Y 27.08.82 Wolston (Warks) BRG + 04.02.85 Ighram, Algeria 1817km C 243149 Juv 14.08.84 Castlemorton (Worcs) WRG X 16.03.85 Ibekarene, Tizi Ouzou, Algeria 1803km B 744038 Ad.F 30.04.85 Dungeness (Kent) v 05.0585 Brandon (Warks) 233km NW

Chiffchaff 1J0111 1Y 29.09.83 Castlemorton (Worcs) WRG V 27.04.85 Englefield Green (Surrey) 139km SE 5E 0786 Juv 28.08.83 Alvechurch (Worcs) PU V 25.09.85 Ashcombe (Sussex) 211km SE

Willow Warbler 4H 5046 Ad 16.06.83 Castlemorton (Worcs) WRG V 16.04.85 Sandwich Bay (Kent) 271km SE Pied Flycatcher B 880122 Pull.M 13.06.83 Riding Mill (Northumberland) V 12.05.84 Sutton Park (W Mid) 263km N C 261112 Pull 13.01.84 Wyre Forest (Worcs) OF V 17.05 85 Brockhampton (Hereford) 23km SSW B 867308 Pull 08.06.83 Bewdley (Worcs) JRM V 06.85 Bewdley (Worcs) 0km C197664 Pull 18.06.84 Bewdley (Worcs) JRM V 29.06.85 Bewdley (Worcs) 0km

Blue Tit B 530211 Pull 08.06.83 Sudbury (Derbys) V 25.02.84 Erdington, Birmingham (W Mid) 45km SSW C 589916 Juv 27.07.85 Naseby Reservoir (Norlhants) V 03.12.85 Groveley (Worcs) 63km E

Chaffinch B 315653 Ad.F 17.12.82 Moor Hall. Sutton Coldfield (W Mid) MRG V 30.0385 Retford (Nottinghamshire) 102km NE B 786408 1Y.M 11.02.83 Moor Hall. Sutton Coldfield (W Mid) MRG X 25.01.85 Mur de Bretagne, Cotes du Nord. France 494km

Brambling KB 38720 2Y.M 20.03.76 Hopwas (Staffs) CD I'M V 23.01.85 Gammel Ronbjerg. Jylland, Denmark 811km

Greenfinch NN 06955 Ad.M 11.02.84 Westmancote (Worcs) WRG V 24.02.85 Northampton (Northants) 83km E NN 06621 Ad.F 29.01.84 Stourport (Worcs) WRG V 21.03.85 Corby (Northants) 113km E

Siskin B 095157 Ad.M 05.03.82 Moor Hall, Sutton Coldfield (W Mid) MRG X 04.04.85 Beauly (Highland) Scotland 560km C 001991 Ad.F 10.03 84 Yateley (Hants) V 18.03.84 Four Oaks (W Mid) 153km B 978596 1 Y.F 31.03.84 Frodsham (Cheshire) V 07.04.84 Four Oaks (W Mid) 101km

Reed Bunting JP 37458 Pull 28.06.81 Brandon (Warks) BRG V 10.03.84 Wellington (Shropshire) 81km WNW KP 30450 Juv 13.10.76 Brandon (Warks) BRG v 2909.85 Brandon (Warks) 0km 126

Key to Contributors The following members non-members have forwarded material for the Report.

G Allan T Cockburn River Cole and Chinn L S Allan A E Coleman Brook Conservation A G Amphlett J Coleman Group E Andrews Malvern Hills Tividale Birdwatching Mrs E Andrews Conservators Group G A Arnold C Cooper (CCo) Ringing M A Arnold Mrs P Cnpson Group N G Arnold M L Cresswell J A Asbury R Croucher P M Hackett K Aslett A Curran G Halfpenny R S Atkins R Hancox J J Day R E Harbird F Baldry A R Dean S C Harrap Mrs V A Baldry P K Dedicoat G R Harrison R Barber Mrs B A Dedicoat Mrs J V Harrison P G Barratt H Dennant M Harrison A D Barter S Dettmar R F Harrison L R Bayes A Dickie S L Haycox M J Beale A K Dolphin G M Hayes J Becke P Downing P Hayman J T Belsey T Doyle S M Haynes D G Bennett I G Duncan A W P Hearn J S Bennett P H Dymott C M Hemmings ARM Blake . H C Hextell R E Blatchford M J Eccleshall S G A Hextell M 0 Boote S F L Edwards J K Higginson M H Bourne D W Emley D J Hobday E J Bradford G Evans K A Hodge K W Brewster J C Eyre-Dickinson J J Holian Mrs R F Briggs E A Hopkins J H Brindle M Fletcher R R Howl G M Broadbent P A Forbes R A Hume I 0 Broadbent Mrs J M Forbes P D Hyde R C Broadbent J E Fortey J R Butcher D Fulton F H Ingram R F E Butler M J Inskipp N D Galloway P L Ireland C Cadbury A F J Gardner P V Irving N Carter P G Garner S Cartwright G I Giles A F Jacobs S L Cawthray J E Gittins S Jaggs P J Chadder D N Gosling M D James S E Chester P Gosling R J Jennett J A Chidwick G H Green D A Jennings B Cleathero M R Green (MflGr) B Jones K G Clifford F C Gribble B WJones Nuneaton and District A G Griffin J L Jones Birdwatchers' Club M Griffin K H Jones Sandwell Valley Field Brandon Ringing Group Naturalists' Club Doxey Marshes M G Kelsey Young Ornithologists' Birdwatching Group A J Kilgallon Club Mercian Ringing Group M H King 127

R J King G Palmer J O Stanney B L Kington G H Peplow P Stewart R W S Knightbridge W F Peplow K R Stone W R H Peplow G Sudworth (GSu) T A Perry G Summers G 0 Laight M Perryman C D Suttic C B Lee E G Phillips M D Sutton T C E Link A O Porter E W Longman P Porter S P Taylor W J Low C H Potter Deer Survey Team S Potter A H Thomas G J Mant D Thomas Mrs E Marsh H S Quiney K H Thomas J P Martin Miss G E Timmins R Maskew R J RaHerty J L Tromans B D Matthews N Ratcliffe D Melbourne J Reece D T Underhill M J Miller P Reeve. C G Millward A J Richards P A Wain Dr C D T Minton 0 Roberts S W Walker C Mitchell S P Roberts D I M Wallace D J Mitford Miss Y M Way K Moore 0 Saunders (DSa) M S Weake N J Morgan D J Scanlan S K Welch H C Morrall R W Scholes B Westwood R h Muult A Shaw L C Wheeler J R Mountford J P Shields • P F Whitehead J H Sirrett I C Whitehouse D Smallshire S M Whitehouse P P Newell M Smart G Williams B J Newsome L Smith J P Williams G K Nicholls M Smith (MSm) S Williams R Normand M J Smith J R Winsper N A Smith A J Wood J J Oliver R K Southall F W Woodland S Orme P C Spinks R N Woodland P Osborne T Spry D Wynne-Jones C C Owen M Squire (MSq) T Owen P Stainton (PSr) Dr D W Yalden

Submission of Records All contributors are asked to refer to A Checklist of the Birds of the West Midlands and a Guide to Status and Record Submission for full guidance on the submission of records.

Records of the following species will not be published unless they are supported by adequate descriptions.

A full description is not necessary for the less rare or difficult species, but enough to show how the species was identified. Such descriptions should be accompanied by brief details of the circumstances of the report and the observer's experience of the species and other, similar species. Lack of proper descriptions may lead to records being rejected. 128

All national rarities. (Not published unless accepted by the British Birds Rarities Committee). All out-ot-season migrants Unusual races Divers Grebes, other than Great Crested or Little Petrels and Shearwaters Gannet and Shag Herons other than Grey Storks and Spoonbill Whooper Swan Geese, other than Canada, Greylag and feral Snow and Barnacle Ducks: Ruddy Shelduck, Red-crested Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, Eider, Long-tailed Duck, all Scoter spp except Common, Smew, Red-breasted Merganser Birds of Prey, except Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Kestrel and Hobby Quail and Golden Pheasant Crakes other than Water Rail Waders: Avocet, Stone-curlew, Kentish Plover, Dotterel, Temminck's Stint, Pectoral Sandpiper, Purple Sandpiper, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Phalaropes Skuas Gulls: Mediterranean, Sabine's, Iceland and Glaucous Terns: Sandwich, Roseate, Little Auks Ring-necked Parakeet Long-eared Owl (summer only) Hoopoe, Wryneck Woodlark, Shorelark Pipits: Richard's, Tawny and Water Wagtails: Blue-headed, White (autumn only) Bluethroat, Black Redstart Warblers: Cetti's, Savi's, Marsh, Icterine, Melodious, Dartford, Barred, Yellow- browed Firecrest Red-breasted Flycatcher Golden Oriole Shrikes Chough, Hooded Crow, Raven Finches: Serin, Twite, Mealy Redpoll Buntings: Lapland, Snow, Cirl and Ortolan Printing: Charles Clarke Printers Limited (0444) 440244