Cover photograph: Male Stonechat Graham Riddell BIRD-WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY Fifty-Ninth Annual Report 1989

St. George Printing Works Ltd., . Tel: 217033 CONTENTS

Page

Officers for 1990 3 Obituary — Dr C.J.F. Coombs 4 Treasurers Report 6 Chairmans Report 8 Editorial and Review of the Year 11 Contributors 18 Species List for 1989 20 Exotica 134 B.B.R.C. Decisions 135 Common Bird Census — 136 The Cornish Chough — some observations 138 A study of Acrocephalus warblers at Marsh 1989 139 The Society's Rules 141

2 Officers 1990-91

President: Sir Alan Dalton, C.B.E., D.L. Chairman: L.A. Smith, 21 Vicarage Meadows, . Vice Chairman: N.R. Phillips, 32 Heabrook Park, , . General Secretary: M. Lawson, Fieldfares, St Giles Drive, . Treasurer and Registrar: A. F. Reynolds, 33 Treworder Road, Field Meetings Officer: D. L. Thomas, Mirador, Whitecross, Nr. Conservation Officer: A.R. Pay, 13 Tregellas Road, Mullion. Assistant Conservation Officer: V.A. Stratton, 2 Alexandra Road, St Ives. Public Relations Officer: Mrs. E. McKenzie, Tregarrick, -in-Pydar. Newsletter Editor: F. M. Couch, 29 Roman Drive, Officer for Youth and Education: Mrs A.C. Hathway, Langurra, Meadow End, Green Lane, , Newquay Recorder and Editor "Birds in Cornwall": S. M. Christophers, 5 Newquay Rd., St. Columb Major Assistant Recorder and Editor: E.J.Cook, 7 Trewethey Way, Newquay. Joint Secretary, Recorders and Editors ' Bird Report' W.H. Wagstaff, 16 Ennor Close, Old Town, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly and M.J. Rogers, Bag End, Churchtown, , St. Ives Committee Members: J.A. Jane (Truro), J.E. Millett (), D. Penwarden (Truro), G.P. Sutton (,) and B.C. Wotton (Newquay) retire 1991, D.A. Conway (Bodmin) and S.C. Hutchings (Penryn) retire 1992, D. Lord (Polzeath) and Dr. J.F. Ryan (Penzance) retire 1993.

3 Obituary

Dr. CHARLES JOHN FRANKLIN COOMBS. M.A., M.B., B.Ch. 1909-1989

It was with great sadness that I learned on the 14th July 1989 of the death of my old friend and neighbour and our Society's President, Dr. Franklin Coombs, but that sadness was tempered by the knowledge that his mobility and independence were maintained so completely almost to the end. Earlier, on the very day he was admitted to Treliske Hospital, he was out and about driving and only had one night in hospital.

Dr. and Mrs Coombs came from Bristol to Cornwall in 1939 when Franklin entered the practice of Dr. Edwards. He had a wide country practice, a surgery in and in Perran-ar-worthal, where the Coombs' made their home for many years before moving to Greenwith Place, a home which their family of four, a son and three daughters have always loved. He retired from practice in 1973 but maintained links as a locum for five years.

Franklin was educated at Clifton College and his interest in all aspects of natural history must have developed during those years, for as a schoolboy he became a member of the Bristol Ornithologists Club and remained a member throughout his life, as well as the Bristol Naturalists Society. He joined Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society soon after he arrived, as his name appears as an established member in 1942. He was elected to serve on the Committee in 1946 and thereafter for frequent terms until he became Chairman in 1965 and President in 1973. He really was a practical and working President.

The Torrey Canyon disaster of 1967 had illustrated how unprepared we all were throughout the country to deal with such oil spills. Franklin became deeply involved with teams of volunteers trying to rectify some of the awful effects of both the spillage and the excessive use of detergent along the shores of the coastline. The Perran-ar-worthal telephone exchange was literally jammed with incoming calls from those wanting to help wiih collecting, transporting and attempting to clean oiled birds. Meantime his skill as an artist was being established and recognised and in 1963/4 he was invited to become one of a select number of Founder Members of The Society of Wildlife Artists. He has exhibited annually in London and galleries throughout the country and some of his work has toured the U.S.A. Then commissions started to flow and he established himself as an artist of international bird study publications. I saw many of the plates while he was working on them in his studio. Meticulous and delicate work about which he was self-effacing. He professed to enjoying and preferring canvasses at least four feet by three. Plates illustrated by him will be found in 'Birds of India' by Salim Ali, 'Birds of the Falklands', 'A Field Guide to the Birds of Saudi Arabia' and the still to be completed 'Birds of the Western Palearctic', specifically in volumes I,II and IV and in volumes VI and VII which will complete the set.

The 1970's found him in spare time driving the length and breadth of and Scotland in order to establish what impact the development of the oil extraction industry might have on sensitive coastal areas with the prospect of pipeline terminals and refineries, so in 1975 with great determination and foresight he assembled a team of specialists with the intention of studying, recording and mapping the sensitive areas of the coastline of the southwest. The full title was 'The Committee for Coastal Biological Conservation' but it soon became known as 'The Coombs Committee'. This erudite body met over a four year period in what is now known as The Plymouth Marine Laboratories, in the room of Roger Swinfen. The final

4 Report with maps was produced at R.S.P.B. headquarters at Exeter assisted by Stan Davies and is intended to give instant information to any relevant authority. Copies were circulated to Planning Departments, industrial companies on coastal sites, county trusts, etc. After many years of research he completed and had published in 1978 what has become the definitive book on corvids, entitled 'The Crows' with the sub-title 'A Study of the Corvids of Europe' and published by B.T. Batsford Ltd. In 1979 he was elected to the Council of The Royal Institution of Cornwall and served until 1984. He was a member of The British Trust for Ornithology, whose big winter meeting at Swanwick he tried never to miss; a great reunion and gathering of old friends. He was a Member of The British Ornithologists Union, The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, The Wildfowl Trust and so many more. A Founder Member of The Cornwall Naturalists Trust later to become the Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation, he served on the Council from its' foundation in 1962 to 1980 and was President from 1973 - 1976. However he found that increasing deafness was making official positions most difficult.

He had travelled widely, often with his great friend and fellow artist, Robert Gillmor. These trips of bird discovery and study took him to Lapland, The Pyrenees, Spain, Morocco, Shetland, the Scottish Highland, Islay, Uganda, Kenya, India and Nepal and once even on a cruise to the Black Sea. This year in April he spent three weeks with an old friend in Malawi; but always he was glad to get up to his beloved North Wales where he and his wife Barbara had a cottage and had been able to indulge their love of hill walking. Barbara died in 1986.

He must have missed her so much as together they had devoted their care and skills to creating and maintaining a beautiful garden at Green with. His other great love was fast cars, preferrably 'souped - up'. His TR 2 was the first in Cornwall. Long before motorways he whirled up to Aberdeen in a day, and all that with a 'clean slate'. It was nothing to drive to London to pick up skins from the Natural History Museum for his accurate, detailed bird paintings, then back to Slimbridge, maybe even via Tring and be back in surgery next morning. We are inclined to forget that he was a busy doctor with the knack of giving time to his patients. A kind and outstanding person. We shall all miss him with his knowledge and his wisdom covering the widest aspects concerning conservation both present and future. We extend our sympathy to all his family. They must feel comfort and pride in knowing that in so many ways he left his mark. Peggy Visick The Coombs Committee' Cornwall Naturalist Trust Dr. Franklin Coombs Dr. Gillian Mathews J.K. Williams Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society George Jackson Devon Naturalist Trust H.G. Hurrell Devon Birdwatching and Preservation Society Leonard Hurrell Robin Khan Roger Swinfen R.S.P.B. Stanley Davies Nature Conservancy Council P. Tinning Institute of Marine Environmental Research Dr. Gordon Heath Marine Biological Association Dr. Norman Holme Exeter University Dept. of Bio-sciences Pro. David Nicholls Countryside Commission Wendy Rees 5 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1989

1988 1989 £ £ £ INCOME Subscriptions 3,602 Annual Membership 3,680 150 Life membership 616 Tax refund on covenanted subscriptions 579

4,368 4,259 406 312 350 Rent, Walmsley Sanctuary 350 Interest 31 31 1,648 1,146 643 Charities Deposit Fund 2,114 16 Bank Deposit Account

2,338 3,291

1,491 Sale of Annual Reports — Scilly 1,209 333 — Mainland 372 129 Other Sales and income 180 1,953 1,761

9,415 9,973 Less: EXPENDITURE Annual Reports, 1988: 2,120 Mainland 2,245 1,454 Scilly 1,515 304 News Letters 370 396 Other Printing and Stationery 395 834 Postages and Telephone 695 264 Rents, Licences and Insurance 377 55 Hire of rooms for meetings 58 138 Hide and Reserve expenses 268 Subscriptions and donations 74 to Societies 32 Goods for resale 64 77 New Hide, 989 New Hide, (812) 897 Walmsley Sanctuary Development 398 Miscellaneous 234 264 6,877 6,828

2,538 3,145 Less: Contributions and Donations 100 CTNC Bird Surveys St Johns Lake Hide 150 Cornwall Biological Records Unit 50

100 200

£2,438 EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE £2,945

6 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER, 1989

1988 1989 £ £ £ INVESTMENTS £902.24 3±°/o War Loan at market price at 354 31st December, 1989 329 11,577 NSB Investment Account 2,724

11,931 3,053 332 DEBTORS 638 281 STOCK at cost 217 BANK BALANCES 12,700 Charities Deposit Fund 23,550 558 Current Account 410 - Cash in Hand 75

13,258 24,035

25,802 27,943 Less: LIABILITIES 254 Subscriptions received in advance 298 823 Sundry Creditors - 1,077 298

£24,725 NET ASSETS £27,645 ACCUMULATED FUNDS 22,272 Balance at 31st December, 1988 24,725 2,438 Add: Excess of Income over Expenditure for year 2,945

24,710 26,670 15 (Decrease)/Increase in market value of war loan (25)

£24,725 £27,645 NOTE: The Society also owns land at Trethias Island and Walmsley Sanctuary in addition to the assets shown in this Balance Sheet.

REPORT OF THE AUDITORS TO CORNWALL BIRDWATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY

We have audited the above Balance Sheet and attached Income and Expenditure Account in accordance with approved auditing standards. In our opinion, the above Balance Sheet and attached Income and Expenditure Account give a true and fair view of the state of the Society's affairs at 31st December 1989, and of its surplus Income over Expenditure for the year then ended. Whitaker, Redfearn, Pappin & Co. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 1990

I opened last year's report by recording the resignation of Dr. Franklin Coombs as President of the Society, and paid tribute to the tremendous contribution which he had made over many years. It is with deep regret that I have to record his death in July last year. He opened his garden, and studio to members in June, and was in fine form, those who were able to attend will have a happy memory of a great man. The Society was represented at his burial service on 20th July and also at the memorial service held on 7th October. The new hide erected at Drift is dedicated to his memory. A full obituary by Mrs. Peggy Visick appears on other pages of this issue.

Membership of the Society remains steady, and the accounts prepared by Alan Reynolds show that we are financially sound. Accordingly, it is not necessary, once again, to increase subscriptions to members.

Mrs. Jenny Higman whose late husband served on the Committee in the 1950s, has made a donation of £100, this is greatly appreciated. Mrs. Higman is in her 93rd year, and in her letter she said she intended to make a modest bequest to the Society, but felt it "simpler, and more practical to accomplish this here and now by means of a direct donation." We thank her for this generous gift, and her good wishes to the Society.

I mentioned in last year's report that a hide was to be erected at Stithians, the Committee decided that it would be more appropriate to locate at Drift, and hold the Stithians hide in abeyance. The Drift hide was put up with help from Dave Thomas, Andy Pay, Richard Hooton, Dave Conway, Dave Brown, Roger Ford and two local farmers. The Camel hide is well used, and remains unlocked. There has from time to time been minor acts of vandalism. It has been suggested that we erect an open backed hide of the type used in East Anglia, and elsewhere. This was thought to be impracticable on the site.

However, we are pursuing with the Council the possibility of the Society providing another locked hide in the vicinity, and leaving the existing in its present position.

During the course of the year we acquired the shooting rights at Devoran, in an effort to curb illegal shooting. The rights will of course, be non exercisable.

The proposed development on the Truro , known as the Park, was rejected by the Carrick Council Planing Committee. The developers have resubmitted their application, pending appeal. The Society was asked to give support to preserve the habitat of numerous waders. This was done at extremely short notice and it is hoped that the habitat will be saved.

As the result of the privatisation of the water industry, letters have been written to all Cornish M.Ps., the Prime Minister and the Department of the Environment, regarding the need to protect existing habitiats. Various answers were received and the situation will be carefully monitored.

The Society was represented at the Royal Cornwall Show and the Truro Green Fair. This was organised by Dave Thomas. It may be appropriate to record formally the contribution which Dave makes during the course of the year. He organises the field meeting programme, helps with practical conservation and construction, represents the Society at fairs and shows - he even finds time to be a very regular

8 attender at Committee meetings. All this in addition to the work he does for other naturalist and conservation organisations. During the year a brush cutter and pump were purchased for use by working parties, on reserves and around hides. This will obviate the hire of such equipment which will be available when needed. Stuart Hutchings has arranged for safe storage at Allet.

Next year sees the 60th anniversary of the Society. It is heartening that an ornithological and conservation body founded so long ago is still flourishing today in the the County. Even during the war, members were active and conscious of the need to preserve habitats and to attend to repairs around the Walmsley Sanctuary. Although Committee meetings at Truro were suspended because of the difficulties of travel, however the Annual Reports were still issued. This showed an indomitable spirit, and one of which we should be proud of the efforts of earlier members. Although I am unlikely to be around at the turn of the Century I am sure that there will be a strong membership ready to celebrate.

Finally I would like to pay tribute to the Committee for their continued support. Throughout the year, members attended from all parts of the County and meetings were exceptionally well attended. Earlier in the year, we met on the night of a day which saw some of the worst gales for many years, the attendance was almost 100%. It is a pleasure to Chair such a Committee and I thank them for making my job so much easier.

Leslie Smith

9 10 EDITORIAL and REVIEW of the YEAR

278 species and at least 12 distinctive sub-species or races were reported during 1989 and found to be acceptable.

359 observers (a 33% increase on last years' record and a 125% increase since my first report in 1982!) submitted records for consideration.

Blue-cheeked Bee-eater and Isabelline Shrike were added to the county mainland list, Lady Amherst's Pheasant and Radde's Warbler were recorded for the second time and Great White Egret and Ross's Gull for the third time.

Reports of several other extreme rarities, notably Soft-plumaged Petrel (three), Bulwer's Petrel, Little Shearwater, Madeiran Petrel, South Polar Skua and Rose- breasted Grosbeak have all been notified to B.B.R.C. but no decision has yet been received.

Other highlights included a large incursion of Quail which permitted many observers to finally 'tick' this elusive species, excellent numbers of raptors in May and September, an unprecedented influx of Little Egrets in August, good numbers of Cory's and Great Shearwaters in the same month and a petrel bonanza in December.

Two formerly regular species, Smew and Great Grey Shrike were not reported during the year and both Jack Snipe and Starling continue to decline as winter visitors.

Mild weather at the end of 1988 persisted throughout January resulting in several unseasonal reports including a Wheatear at Bude, a Yellow-browed Warbler at Loe Pool and a Wryneck at .

Overwintering wildfowl included a Pink-footed Goose, a Ring-necked Duck and three Long-tailed Duck but waterfowl generally, were scarce. Conversely, waders were fairly numerous, notably Bar-tailed Godwits, which had arrived in exceptional numbers the previous autumn, and Dunlin which were induced to stay in the county in the mild conditions.

Of the passerines, winter thrushes were particularly scarce, but there was a flock of 156 Yellowhammers at Amy Down and a record-sized flock of 65 Snow Buntings at Pentire.

The long-staying Red Kite remained on and two more were noted during January.

Gull passage began in earnest in mid-month, rarer species including three Iceland, five Glaucous and a single Ross's Gull at .

The February weather pattern showed little change until the last week or so when there was a brief cold snap. Bird movements were few but did include unseasonal Swallows on 6th and 21st and House Martins on 15th and 19th.

A Greylag Goose at Croft Pascoe on 5th was unexpected but single Iceland and Yellow-legged Gulls were perhaps more predictable. 13 Crossbills at and a Snow Bunting at completed a rather dreary month for birds.

11 March opened with a mild, unsettled westerly airstream which continued almost unhindered until 25th when a ridge of high pressure brought in a wave of very early passerine migrants.

Early in the month there was a Sand Martin on 6th, Black Redstart on 7th, Wheatear on 8th and the first of the months' 16 Hoopoes on 13th.

March 26th/30th produced many good birds including Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Ring Ouzel on 26th, three Snow Buntings on 27th, Marsh Harrier, Whimbrel, Iceland Gull and Swift on 28th and Redstart, Reed Warbler and Subalpine Warbler at on 30th.

A Richard's Pipit found at April 1st probably arrived with the aforementioned species because migration virtually ceased during the first week of April as winds veered to the north resulting in heavy snowfall in some areas of the U.K.

This airstream dominated for almost three weeks and apart from Turtle Dove and Cuckoo on 8th few migrants arrived until 17th when Whinchat and Grasshopper Warbler were located. A Lesser Whitethroat at Porthgwarra on 18th heralded another fantastic year for this former county rarity. A Serin was found at the same day, a Woodchat Shrike graced Porthgwarra on 22nd, there was a Wood Warbler at Breage on 23rd and a Sabine's Gull at Newquay the same day.

Other summer visitors to arrive before the end of the month included Pied Flycatcher on 26th, Spotted Flycatcher on 27th and Garden Warbler on 29th.

May proved a fantastic month weather-wise with near-record temperatures and sunshine hours. The birds matched the weather with a whole string of rarities. The May Day weekend produced a Black Stork over , a Stone Curlew at , a Kentish Plover at Marazion, a Tawny Pipit near Kynance, a Golden Oriole and a Cirl Bunting at and an Ortolan Bunting at Porthgwarra. Back-up birds included four Dotterel, two Wood Sandpipers, single Glaucous Gull and Hoopoe and two Nightingales.

Eight more Golden Orioles were seen over the next few weeks, a Black Stork flew over Camel Est. on 9th and a Chough was seen at (not an escapee!) on 15th, but apart from the first of the Quail invasion there was a lull until 17th when a Marsh Harrier flew through Marazion. This proved to be the first of a splendid array of raptors which included two Honey Buzzards, two more Marsh Harriers, a Montagu's Harrier, single Red-footed Falcons at Trevose Head and Tregardock, a wandering Black Kite in West Cornwall and a clutch of six Hobby's - all before the end of the month.

Over the same period, diversity was provided by two Bee-eaters, two Tree Sparrows and a Serin at Porthgwarra, a Hoopoe at , a Tree Sparrow at Bodmin, a Hawfinch at and an Ortolan Bunting at Lizard.

The fine May weather spilled over into June with exceedingly hot days around mid-summer before a change to cooler north-westerlies at the end of the month. The very settled conditions brought few new avian arrivals but these did include the bird of the year - a Blue-cheeked Bee-eater at Kennack Sands on 1st. Those in search of this bird located a Bee-eater at this site on 4th and a Red-footed Falcon at nearby Croft Pascoe the same day.

A long-staying Whiskered Tern at Hayle Est. attracted considerable attention from 12th to 24th and a Great White Egret at Fal Est. was eagerly sought by an army of twitchers from 23rd. Meanwhile, a Little Egret at Camel Est. on 24th was the only one of the spring and provided no clues of events to come. Quail seemed to be everywhere - up to 58 birds were reported but these were surely only the tip of a very large invasion. 12 Many breeding species undoubtedly benefitted from the dry conditions although it was patently obvious that thrushes were experiencing difficulty in obtaining sufficient food from the baked ground.

There was a paucity of information concerning breeding seabirds but the best coverage of Grey Heron and Mute Swan populations for many years.

The Canada Goose population continues to expand and there was further evidence of Lesser Whitethroat and Pied Flycatchers occupying new sites.

Kestrels were certainly more numerous and Barn Owl breeding success rate was considerably higher than 1988 - in mid-Cornwall at least.

The Grey Partridge remains at risk despite a slight improvement this year whilst Nightjar remains a very vulnerable species; one regular site was not occupied and another attracted only a female this year.

Sand Martin and Cetti's Warbler maintained a slow recovery but Stonechat populations shewed a healthy increase - testament to their prodigous reproductive capability!

A pair of Dartford Warblers bred on Bodmin Moor and Wood Warbler was confirmed breeding for the first time since 1976. Whilst Cirl Buntings maintain a tenuous toe-hold and Woodlark appears to have been extirpated locally, Tree Sparrow created the most unexpected breeding record of the year by successfully rearing young at Lands End; the first known breeding in the county.

July was characterised by continuing hot, dry, sunny weather coupled with rapidly reducing reservoir levels.

Early in the month single Red-crested Pochard, Honey Buzzard, Woodchat Shrike, the earliest ever autumn Knot and two Red Kites were sighted.

Later in the month southerly biased winds pushed the first Cory's Shearwater close inshore off Porthgwarra. This movement became more obvious during the first two weeks of August as high pressure prevailed. South/south west winds in mid month resulted in the best numbers of Cory's and Great Shearwaters off Porthgwarra for many years. Few passerine migrants arrived from the Continent but at least twenty, possibly thirty eight, Little Egrets overshot from the south.

Both Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper which first appeared on 14th and 20th respectively, passed through in meagre numbers but a Lesser Yellowlegs at Drift Res. was surprisingly early and the harbinger of an above average possee of Nearctic waders.

On 24th an Icterine Warbler was trapped at and four days later there was a Bonelli's Warbler at Lands End plus the earliest-ever autumn Brambling at Lizard. The following day two Goshawks sailed through and the first of a notable passage of Coal Tits was reported.

A Blue-winged Teal was identified at Lower Tamar Lake on 31st but apparently moved quickly on, whilst the first of eight autumn Ortolans was seen at .

The first half of September was relatively settled but from mid month westerly winds prevailed with occasional gales.

An excellent find on 1st was a Semipalmated Sandpiper at Camel Est. Perhaps a little more predictable was a Buff-breasted Sandpiper at Airfield - the first of eight during the month. Two Ospreys were at Camel Est. on 3rd, Tawny

13 Pipits were seen at Davidstow and Lizard and the first of a heavy Goldcrest migration was noted.

A count of 2733 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Colliford Res. on 5th was the second highest ever concentration in the county. One of Cornwall's most sought after ticks, Red-necked Phalarope, was identified at Stithians Res. on the afternoon of 6th allowing many local birders to enhance their life-lists. Apart from a Blue- winged Teal at Drift Res. on 11th and a Stone Curlew at Davidstow Airfield on 12th it was a quiet week. On 15th a Wilson's Phalarope appeared at Stithians Res. and the only Pectoral Sandpiper of the autumn was watched near Kynance. Another Wilson's Phalarope was found at Camel Est. the next day and the first Merlin and Black Redstart of the autumn were reported. A Quail at on 17th was surprisingly the only report for the autumn.

Porthgwarra produced a Bonelli's Warbler on 17th and Siskins started arriving from 19th. The succeeding week was profitable with single Icterine, Melodious and Barred Warblers at , a Red-breasted Flycatcher at Lizard and Red- backed Shrike and Red-eyed Vireo at Cot Valley. Features of an impressive passage of raptors were two Red Kites, two Marsh Harriers and a concentration of 27 Common Buzzards at .

October proved to be something of an anti-climax this year - at least until late in the month when the eagerly awaited 'quality' birds arrived. A moderate westerly airstream provided few seabirds, very little from the Continent and no new Nearctic passerines.

A Baird's Sandpiper was well watched at Crowdy Res. from 1st and a Richard's Pipit and the first of twenty Ring Ouzels were found the same day, whilst two more Red-breasted Flycatchers and up to ten Yellow-browed Warblers were located over the next few days. Another Barred Warbler was sighted at Nanquidno on 9th and a huge flock of 93 Blue Tits was counted at Mount Edgecumbe on 10th - the same day as the third Blue-winged Teal of the autumn was identitied at Lower Tamar Lake.

The following day a Citrine Wagtail, strongly suspected since 10th, was finally identified at and a Goshawk flew over nearby St Loy. A brief flurry of activity 16h/17th produced two Bewick's Swans, two Spotted Crakes, three fly-over Woodlarks and a Radde's Warbler.

Notable sightings were becoming more sporadic with a Ring-necked Duck at Lower Tamar Lake, a Spoonbill at Hayle Est. and an unique duo of Baird's and White-rumped Sandpipers at Stithians Res. the only major finds of the ensuing ten day period. The last few days of the month were considerably more interesting with a splendid Rose-coloured Starling at from 26th, an Isabelline Shrike at , Pallas's Warbler at Porthgwarra and an obliging Marsh Warbler at Cot Valley.

Meanwhile a Grey Phalarope completed an unprecedented hat-trick for this Family at Stithians Res.

Five Whooper Swans - the only record for the year - flew over Cove on 30th and a Dotterel visited Davidstow Airfield the same day.

Fine, dry and mild weather conditions prevailed for the first six days of November producing a Long-eared Owl and a record passage of 4000 Chaffinches at Porthgwarra on 1st, a Richard's Pipit at Lizard on 3rd and several 'goodies' on 6th, notably an American Golden Plover at Stithians, a Woodlark at Lizard and single late Hoopoe and Willow Warbler at St Germans and Lizard respectively.

The 7th to 10th was wetter and windier producing little of note but as the weather

14 settled again a heavy passage of pigeons was noted including 2900 Woodpigeons at Lizard on 12th and over 200 Stock Doves at Lizard and Porthgwarra on 13th. A Serin was seen at Porthgwarra on 13th and a late Garden Warbler was found at on 15th.

Buzzards appeared to be particularly numerous and large groups included 31 at on 12th and 16 at Constantine on 19th.

Despite a change to frosty weather, wildfowl remained scarce - a Velvet Scoter at Loe Bar and a Bewick's Swan at Loe Pool being the most notable. A Bittern seen flying over Lizard on 24th may have been one which later settled at Marazion, whilst a Red Kite seen heading south at Winnards Perch on 30th was possibly the same as one at during December.

The settled weather continued until December 12th when a vigorous and complex series of depressions brought wet and windy conditions culminating in near- hurricanes on 17th and 22nd/23rd.

Two Pink-footed Geese joined the burgeoning Canada Goose flock at Tamar Lakes capping a superb year for wildfowl on the lakes. Two Velvet Scoter accompanied a flock of one hundred Common Scoter in , the Tamar Est. Avocet flock peaked at 150 birds and an Iceland Gull was sighted at .

The storm of 17th resulted in the latest ever county record of Cory's Shearwater, off , and five Leach's Petrels in south east Cornwall. The more severe storm of 22nd/23rd wrecked 70 Leach's Petrels at Newquay, 36 at St Ives, 15 at Bude and smaller numbers elsewhere. There was also a Storm Petrel off Newquay and later a Black Guillemot in St Ives harbour. A Richards Pipit at Dodman on Boxing Day was a surprise find, as was a Yellow-browed Warbler at St Columb, which overwintered.

The year ended as it had begun with few wildfowl and winter thrushes but several unseasonal overwintering species including Swallow, Wheatear, Rose-coloured Starling and at least eight Little Egrets.

Thanks To everyone who submitted records for inclusion in the Report.

To John Cook for his unstinting efforts in extracting records for the section Red- legged Partridge to House Martin.

To Dave Flumm for the NWC and BOEE counts.

To Brian Craven for information from Field and Natural History Club file.

To Graham Riddell for the cover photograph.

To Graham Sutton and Tony Archer-Locke for photographs.

To Ashley Fisher, Renfred Hathway and John Walters for drawings.

To Tony Archer-Locke, Derek Lord and Bernard Pattenden for articles.

To Viv Carne for assistance with typing.

To Dave Flumm, Ted Griffiths, Steve Madge, Andy Pay, Roger Smaldon and Victor Tucker for considerable advice and decisions on county rarities and contentious records.

15 Rarities Reports of national rarities must be accompanied by a full description, preferably notes in the field. Sketches and photographs can be of great assistance but not normally returnable. These descriptions should be submitted to the Recorder as soon as possible after the occurrence and should, wherever possible, be submitted on the appropriate form obtainable from the Recorder or from the Secretary of B.B.R.C., M.J. Rogers, Bag End, Churchtown, Towednack, Cornwall, TR26 3AZ.

Reports of county rarities must be accompanied by a full field description - too often it is necessary to disregard records not substantiated by field notes.

County rarities requiring field notes include the following:

Red-necked Grebe Iceland Gull Black-necked Grebe Glaucous Gull Leach's Petrel Roseate Tern Cory's Shearwater Arctic Tern Great Shearwater Black Guillemot Bittern Little Auk Purple Heron Long-eared Owl White Stork Woodlark Garganey Richard's Pipit Scaup Tawny Pipit Velvet Scoter Water Pipit Smew Yellow Wagtail (variants). Ruddy Duck Waxwing all grey Geese Nightingale Snow Goose Bluethroat Honey Buzzard Cetti's Warbler Red Kite Savi's Warbler Marsh Harrier Aquatic Warbler Montagu's Harrier Barred Warbler Goshawk Icterine Warbler Hobby Melodious Warbler Spotted Crake Yellow-browed Warbler Corncrake Wood Warbler Crane Red-breasted Flycatcher Little Ringed Plover Willow Tit Kentish Plover Golden Oriole Dotterel Red-backed Shrike Temminck's Stint Great Grey Shrike Pectoral Sandpiper Chough Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tree Sparrow Red-necked Phalarope Serin Pomarine Skua Scarlet Rosefinch Long-tailed Skua Lapland Bunting Mediterranean Gull Ortolan Bunting Sabine's Gull Cirl Bunting Ring-billed Gull

Additionally, the Recorder may at any time request full details of an unusual occurrence.

Records should follow the order shown in this Report; not in alphabetical order or diary form. Adherence to these basic guidelines will greatly facilitate the extraction of information from your notes.

Records for 1990 should be sent to the Recorder by 15th January 1991 at the latest.However to assist in the early publication of the Report I would be pleased to receive the bulk of records at any time during the current year.

Finally I apologise for any errors or omissions which are attributable to me. I welcome any constructive criticism or idea which might improve the Report.

Stanley Christophers.

WILDFOWL & WADER COUNTS 1989

In 1989, the National Wildfowl Counts (NWC) organised by The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and the Birds of Estuaries Enquiry (BoEE) run by The British Trust for Ornithology amalgamated to produce a new counting form covering all estuary sites in the UK. The NWC continue as before for inland sites such as lakes and reservoirs but the production of a single form to combine the NWC and BoEE counts at coastal estuaries has been greatly welcomed as it eliminates the duplication of data and the need for two organisers to collect it for these estuarine sites.

Until this year, Roger Smaldon has organised the BoEE counts for the BTO in Cornwall whilst I took over from Tony Langford in 1985 as county organiser for WWT's NWC. Roger has now stepped down and at his request, I agreed to take on his role in that capacity, taking on the BoEE counts last July.

The BoEE counts take place on a set Sunday once a month all through the year and so provide a more comprehensive set of data than the NWC which only runs Sep. - March. In this connection it makes more sense to summarise the county results over a twelve-month period (ie. for a single year) than for over a seven-month period (involving two years) as has been the practice in recent Birds In Cornwall. This change takes effect from this issue.

It will become apparent that whilst comparing the figures in the tables with maximum counts under the main species account that there is frequently a considerable anomaly in the figures. This is a problem which seems insurmountable in that the NWC and BOEE surveys are conducted on just one day per month, and that may not necessarily be the 'best' day for that species. Nevertheless the counts provide an extremely valuable source of regular data for a number of important sites.

In 1989 counts took place at 30 sites in Cornwall but there are still two sites not covered by the counts: and the Fowey Estuary. If anyone feels they would like to help in these areas please can they contact me at the address below:

D.S. Flumm, 52 Porthia Road, St. Ives, Cornwall, TR26 2JB.

Areas covered and their counters during 1989 were as follows: Lynher Est. - B. Chugg; St. John's Lake - S.C. Madge; Siblyback Res. and Looe Est. - J.H. Finch; Colliford Res. and - D. Conway; Crowdy Res. - B.T. Craven; Camel Est. - M. Lawson and D. Julian; Gannel Est. - T.M. Carne; Porth Res. - R.H. Poynton; Par Pools - P. Searle; Riv. - P.S. Christie, S.F. Jackson and P. Williams; Truro Riv. - P.S. Christie and L.A.H. Sari; Argal and College Res. - D.J. Lidstone; Stithians Res. - A. Langford; Swanpool, Restronguet and Helford Est. - L.A.H. Sari; - G.C. Jackson and J. Conbeer; Loe Pool and Park Lake - J.S. Gilbert; Pendarves and Cargenwen - A. Rowe; Clowance Pond and Hayle Millpond - E.J. Thomas; Hayle and Est. - D.S. Flumm; - T.K. Plummer.

In adition the Tamar complex (incl. the Tavy Estuary in Devon) has a wealth of counters and I wish to thank P. Reay for coordinating the BoEE counts there, some of which are included in this report.

In the tables - n.c. = no count - = none recorded

17 Contributors

Adley, R.F. Clifton, D.J. Gillan, Mr & Mrs J. Aley, P.H. Coales, L.A. Giovannini, P. (PG) Allan, G. Coghlan, S. Golley, M.A. Allen, Mrs B. Colliver, N.A. Gordon, G.K. Allen, M. Conway, D.A & Gould, R.W. Andrew, R. Mrs I.M.E. Grace, A.S. Ansell, W.F.H. Conway, G.J. Grace, E. Archer, K. & Mrs J. Cook, E.J. Graham, M. Archer, R. Cook, J. Grant, D. & I. Arnold, N. Couch, F.M. Greenhalgh, Mrs E.M. Arundell, E.J. Coulson, P. Greenhough, T.J. Ashmore, N.F. Coupland, A. Griffiths, E. (EG) Aspin, W. Courtnell, D.R. Griffiths, G. Astins, D.J. Cowling, P. Gynn, G.C. & Dr E.G. Attyer, A. Cox, S.J. Hall, Mrs M.C. Bailey, M.R.A. Craven, B.T. Hallam, N.J. Barden, P.J. Crawford, A.D. Hambridge, K. Barker, D.J. & Mrs D.C. Creighton, R. Hammersley, Mrs. Barnard, C.C. Croaker, S. Hammon, V. Beint, K.J. Crosby, M. Hanby, Dr A.M., Bellamy, G. Davey, A.M.J. S. &M. Bingham, C.L. Davey, C Hanlon, J. Bird, S. Davidson, A.S. Hanlon, V.J. Birkin, M.J. Day, G. Hannaford, B. Black, P. Deal, H.A. Hardy, Mrs. E.H. Blackburn, T. Dingle, T.J. Harper, R. Blackman, V. Disley, A.S. Harris, A. Blatchford, M. & Dobinson, F.A. Harrison, P. Mrs G.M. Dudley, C. Harrop, A.H.J. Bottomley, J. B & Dudley, S.P. Hatfield, Mr. M. & Mrs S. Mrs S. Dunning, B.H. Hathway, Mrs A.C. Bray, N. Dustow, J. Hathway, R.F. Broad, S. Dwyer, P.J. Hawken, J.B. Brown, C. Dyer, Mrs S. Hawkey, J. Brown, D. Edmonds, P. Heal, B.R. & Mrs B.A. Bryden, J.D. Elliott, P. Hemming, C. Bury, S. (SB) Ellis, Mrs R. Higson, P. Butts, R. Elton, Dr N.J. & Hillman, J.C. Cabbie, N.J. Miss D.E. Hillmer, J.C. Carne, S. Ethridge, C. Hocking, C. Carne, T.M. & Mrs V.S. Evans, L.G.R. Holligworth, R. (RHo) Carter, E. Everest, A. Honeychurch, F.H. Cashman, P.B. Evershed, T.R. Hooton, R.J. Cave, B. Exelby, N.B. Hopkinson, R.A. Chadder, H.H.R. Farnsworth, Mr & Mrs J Hosking, W.H. Chapman, M. Field, B.R.. Hurcombe, T. Chell, D. Fields, Mr & Mrs S.B. Innes, R. Cheyney, W.H. Fisher, E.A. Jackson, D. Chown, D.J. Flumm, D.S. Jackson, G.J. Christmas, S.G. Fowling, R.J. Jackson, S. Christophers, B.T.S. Francis, J.H.D. James, Mrs B.D. Christophers, S.M., Fuller, N. James, CM. Mrs A.D. & Galey, CP. James, J.W. Miss H.M. Gammage, P. James, M.D. Clark, Mrs A.P. Gardner, I. James, P. Clatworthy, J.M. Gilbert, J.S. James, P. & Mrs D.

18 James, R.M.R. Parker, D. Smith, J.P. Jane, J.A. Pattenden, B. Smith, P.R. Jenkin, Miss L. Pay, A.R. Smith, T.H. Jenkins, J. Payne, D.H. Snelling, M.A. & Jerram, Miss R.M. Pearce, Mrs L. Mrs I.D. Johnson, D.L. Pearman, Mrs S.J. Southam, M. Jones, Miss M.J. Penhall, K.W.A. Spalding, K. (KS) Joyce, N. & Mrs B. Penhallurick, R.D. Stanton, K. Julian, D.I. Perring, Mr. Stephenson, G. & D. Kelley, D.F. Perry, A. Stratton, V.A. Kendall, F.H.C. Pett, J.C. Stuckey, L.F. Kendall, I. & Mrs S. Phillilps, Mrs R.M. Sutton, G.P. Kitchener, P. Pilbeam, S. (SP) Thomas, D.L. Kitto, Mrs A. Pink, S.A.M. Thomas, G.H. Lane, R. Porter, J. Todd, A.H. Langdon, A. Porter, S. Toohig, T.H. Large, S. Poulding, R.H. Tonking, C.N. Last, W.G. Powell, L.S. & Mrs E.M. Tremayne, R. Lawman, Mrs J. Poynton, Mr & Mrs R.M. Tucker, V.R. Lawson, M. Poyser, D. Turner, K. Leadley, J. Prentice, M. Twining, J.W. Leadley, Mr & Mrs D.R. Pullan, D. Tyzzer, J.G. Lee, R.J. Pulsford, A.H. Vaughan, H. Levene, J. Randall, J.M. Visick, Mrs M.P. Lewington, I. Reay, P. Wake, R.E. & Lewis, D. Reid, Mrs J. Mrs J.A. Lewis, G.D. Rigby, D.J. Wakelin, P.A. Lewis, Mrs J. Riley, D. Walters, J.M. Lister, I. Ringrose, G. Webb, L. Lister, S.M. Rogers, M.J. White, G.R. & Mrs M. Lobb, R.J. Rosier, A.B. Whitehouse, I.C. Lott, Mrs F.E. Rowe, Dr G.P.G. Wicks, S.C. Lowndes, R.L. & Rowe, Mrs S. Wilkins, R. Mrs L.M. Rowe, S.G. Williams, E.H. McCartney, P. Rowland, M. Williams, G. McQuillan, P. Rowntree, Miss A.L. Williams, L.P. Madge, S.C. Rundle, P. Williams, M. Maker, P.A. Rutter, P.A. Wilson, J.H.W. Marr, B.A.E. Ryan, Dr J.F. Wolfenden, W. & Marris, Mrs M. Sabran, G. Mrs M. Mellow, B.K. St Pierre, P.A. Woodley, J. Meredith, Mrs H. Sari, L.A.H. Woodward, R. & I. Meyer, R.M. Sawle, A.C. Wotton, B.C. Miles, H. Scaife, Mrs. Wright, J. (JW) Millett, J.E. Searle, M. Yalden, Dr D.W. Moor, P. Self, A. Yelland, D.M. Morrison, S.J. Semmens, Mrs S.G. Mumford, I. Seymour, G.E. British Trust for Nelson, S. Sharp, Mrs A. Ornithology. Nicholas, Mr & Mrs D. Short, B. Caradon Field and Natural Noble, K. Sillifant, P.T. History Club. Northcott, W.C. Simms, J. Cornwall Trust for Nature Northey, Mrs. Slight, K. Conservation. Norton, J. Smaldon, R. Royal Air Force O'Boy, Mrs J. Small, B. & Mrs J. Ornithological Society. Odell, D.J. Smallshire, D. Royal Society for the Oliver, Mrs. Smart, J.R. Protection of Birds. Osborne, C.A. Smith, Mrs B. Osborne, J. Smith, D.F. Apologies for any Osbourne, Mrs R. Smith, L.A. & omissions. Mrs F. 19 Species List for 1989

The following species are in the order shown in 'The British Birds List of Birds of the Western Palearctic'.

Please note the following definitions: (a) 'Porthgwarra' includes the area south of a line drawn from Cam Les Boel to St. Levan. (b) 'Mount's Bay' refers only to that part of the bay between Mousehole and Marazion. (c) 'Whitsand Bay' refers to the bay east of Looe and not the bay of a similar name at . (d) ' Bay' includes Par Bay. (e) 'Pentire Point' - north of Polzeath. (f) 'Porth Mear' — , and not the cove of a similar name near St. Ives.

All species noted on the Cornish mainland during the year and found to be acceptable, are included in this report. Where a record has been accepted by British Birds Rarities Committee, (BBRC) this fact is stated.

Under the majority of species, sightings are listed in date order, i.e. localities with January sightings are placed first and those with December sightings are placed last. This avoids dividing the County into geographical or topographical regions which can cause considerable confusion when extracting data from reports.

References Penhallurick, R.D. 'Birds of the Cornish Coast', Truro 1969. Penhallurick, R.D. 'The Birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly', Penzance 1976. Rodd, E.H. 'The Birds of Cornwall', London 1880. Ryves, B.H. 'Bird Life in Cornwall', London 1948. Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Reports 1931 - 1988.

RED-THROATED DIVER - Gavia stellata

Uncommon winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although widely scattered along the more sheltered south coast, recent observations have discovered large concentrations along the north coast particularly between and , in the early part of the year. Whilst these flocks are large for Cornwall they are much smaller than the flocks of several hundred reported annually from Hartland Point, North Devon. Birds were reported from only 25 localities during 1989, 17 on the south coast and eight on the north coast. Two overwintered from 1988 at St. Austell Bay and Falmouth. More than usual arrived during January but many were single bird/single day sightings with very few remaining into February. There was a light spring passage during March and April with the last at May 18th. Regular first winter/spring reports from: : up to two until Apr 5th. Seaton: noted Jan 7th to Mar 4th with max of seven Jan 28th and five Mar 4th. Trevose Head: noted Jan 15th to Mar 4th with monthly max of 24 Jan 20th, 45 Feb 7th and 33 Mar 4th. Bude: 21 Jan 18th, 11 Feb 1st and one Mar 10th. St. Ives: singles Jan 12th and 25th, Mar 12th and Mar 22nd. Mevagissey: noted Mar 9th to May 18th with max of three first date. Elsewhere there was maxima of six west off Killigerran Head Jan 13th and another four west there Apr 30th, two at Falmouth Jan 4th and two in Bay Feb 17th.

20 All other reports concerned singles. Autumn passage commenced with one at St Johns Lake Sept 23rd, followed by singles west off Bude and St Ives Oct 6th. The total of c.44 birds to the end of the year was abnormally low and the sole over­ wintering bird was at Carrick Roads. Regular autumn/second winter reports from: St Ives: a total of 15 flew west between Oct 6th and Dec 22nd with max of four Nov 5th and Dec 22nd. St Austell Bay: one or two regular Nov 2nd to Dec 12th but five Dec 3rd. Carrick Roads: one or two regular Nov 26th to the end of the year. : five Dec 7th. Killigerran Head: three west Dec 17th. Lizard: four west Dec 17th.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER - Gavia arctica

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Predominantly a bird of the sheltered south coast with large concentrations regularly occurring in the to Carrick Roads area. /Gerrans Bay regularly attracts perhaps as much as 5% of the U.K. winter total, but prior to this year the species has proved surprisingly scarce in nearby St Austell Bay. Reasonable numbers occasionally occur at other localities, notably Mounts Bay and . In the first winter period birds were reported from 18 sites, 14 on the south coast but a meagre four on the north coast. Regular first winter/spring reports from: Veryan Bay: noted until May 2nd with monthly max of 75 Jan 30th, 40 Feb 12th, 25 Mar 22nd, 35 Apr 19th and ten May 2nd. Gerrans Bay: noted until May 7th with monthly max of six Jan 1st, 24 Feb 25th, 40 Mar 11th, 25 Apr 8th and three May 5th. St Austell Bay: noted until May 17th with max of 32 Jan 22nd and 20 Mar 11th. Mounts Bay: nine Jan 7th to Feb 16th, one Mar 27th. Seaton: eight Jan 28th. St Ives: four Mar 22nd. Elsewhere no more than two were observed together. The last in spring were two at Mevagissey May 18th, but one in Mounts Bay Jul 3rd to 18th is difficult to assess. The first in autumn was one off St Ives Sept 14th followed by one off Lizard Sept 17th. Only one was reported for the whole of October and very few during November. Unusually the largest second winter flock, normally associated with Gerrans/Veryan Bay, appeared to be centred on Falmouth Bay. This is thought to be as a result of the mid-December storms pushing the birds farther west than normal. Reports were received from only twelve sites, nine on the south coast and three on the north coast. Regular reports autumn and second winter: St Ives: a total of ten west between Sept 14th and Dec 15th with max of six Nov 4th. Veryan Bay: one Oct 8th, 12 Nov 7th and four Nov 26th. Gerrans Bay: four Dec 2nd, 13 Dec 3rd. Falmouth Bay: 40 Dec 23rd. Looe: four Dec. 25th. Helford Est: five Dec 26th.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER - Gavia immer

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although the most widespread of the divers in Cornwall, most birds tend to be rather solitary and rarely form anything other than small 'rafts', unlike the more

21 gregarious Red and Black-throated divers. Recent observations have shown St Austell Bay to be the primary site for the species in the county. Good numbers are regularly reported in Veryan, Gerrans, Mounts and St Ives bays. Birds were reported from a total of 32 sites during the year - a substantial decrease on recent years. Numbers overwintering from 1988 were lower than normal. There was a small spring movement Mar 11th to 15th and others Apr 19th to 28th and in May. The last was at Kennack Sands May 26th. First winter/spring maxima: St Austell Bay: noted until May 21st with max of 20 Jan 22nd, ten Feb 16th, 20 Mar 11th, 23 Apr 26th and 19 May 8th. Seaton: seven Jan 8th, 12 Mar 12th. Mounts Bay: 12 Jan 8th, seven Mar 7th. Helford Est: five Jan 23rd. St Ives Bay: six Jan 25th, seven Apr 1st. Gerrans Bay: eight Jan 28th and Mar 24th, 12 May 1st. Veryan Bay: six Apr 19th. : six Apr 26th. Elsewhere there was no more than four together. The first in autumn was at Sept 10th followed by one at Lizard Sept 15th. Only nine birds were reported during October and numbers remained generally low until the third week of December when worsening weather produced a larger crop of birds. Autumn/second winter maxima: St Austell Bay: noted from Oct 11th with max of three Oct 15th to 30th, eight Nov 6th and 12 Dec 15th to 26th. St Ives: three west Nov 4th, three west Nov 5th, 20 Dec 19th. Gerrans Bay: six Dec 4th, 14 in the bay and 11 west Dec 17th. Mounts Bay: six Dec 20th. : eight Dec 23rd. Looe: 12 Dec 23rd. Carrick Roads: 14 Dec 26th. Again there was no more than four at any other site. Unusual was one inland at Siblyback Res. Jan 9th to Feb 6th.

LITTLE GREBE - Tachybaptus ruficollis

Scarce resident. Breeds in very low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The only regular breeding site in recent years has been Stithians Res. where breeding or attempted breeding has occurred annually since 1981. This year however, the only comment received was from JAJ who stated 'may have bred'. Certainly the very low water level here and elsewhere will not have proved conducive to any successful attempt. At Caerhays Lake a bird was present until May 2nd and at Long Rock Pool a male was observed Jun 20th. The origin of two adults and an immature at Loe Pool Jul 15th is not known but may be indicative of local success. Many of the birds involved in the sizeable incursion in late 1988, overwintered, but spring passage was apparently restricted to singles at Mar 19th and Res. Mar 25th. First winter maxima: Porth Res: eight Jan 3rd. Stithians Res: five Jan 8th. Truro River: 12 Jan 8th, ten Mar 12th. Drift Res: eight Jan 10th. Camel Est: 18 Jan 10th. 15 Feb 2nd. Loe Pool: 14 Jan 12th. 12 Jan 27th. Lynher Est: nine Jan 18th. Tresillian: 12 Jan 28th. Hayle Est: 28 Feb 3rd. Swanpool: six Feb 6th.

22 St Johns Lake: 14 Feb 8th. : 16 Feb 10th. Helford Est: nine Feb 10th. Fowey Est: six Mar 5th. Apart from Pool birds autumn passage apparently commenced with singles at Aug 17th, St Johns Lake Aug 19th and Percuil Aug 22nd. There was an early build up at Loe Pool but elsewhere numbers were low until mid November. End of year flocks were much smaller than in the same period in 1988. Autumn/second winter maxima: Tresillian: 11 Nov 11th. Camel Est: 15 Nov 24th. St Johns Lake: 11 Dec 2nd. Fowey Est: nine Dec 17th. Hayle Est: 31 Dec 31st.

There was no more than five at any other site.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE - Podiceps cristatus Scare passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare resident. Breeds. Bred successfully at Tamar Lake in 1930 but did not breed again until 1985 when a pair nested unsuccessfully at College Reservoir. This was repeated in 1986 but a pair successfully reared one young at Lower Tamar Lake in the same year. Breeding has been annual here ever since and in 1988 and 1989 a pair has nested at Upper Tamar Res. One young was seen at each site in summer. In addition a pair nested at Crowdy Res. for the first time, rearing two young. KS.BTC. AHJH. ML. The only overwintering birds from 1988 were the usual party in south east Cornwall, a pair at Lower Tamar Lake and one at Siblyback Res. which remained until Feb 5th. Four birds arrived in February but only odd singles were noted thereafter with the last at Lynher Est. Apr 28th. The first in autumn was a juvenile at Loe Pool Jul 8th and a second bird there the following day. Once again the only notable flock in the second winter period was in the Lynher Est./Tamar Est./St Johns Lake complex. All other records: Lynher Est: noted to Apr 28th with max of 12 Jan 18th and 13 Feb 6th. One Sept 10th and then regular from Oct 30th with max of 11 Dec 1st. St Johns Lake: singles Jan 26th to Mar 11th and from Oct 22nd but three Nov 19th. Tamar Est: singles Apr 18th and Aug 28th. St Austell Bay: singles Feb 10th to 16th and Mar 19th. : one Feb 11th. Mounts Bay: two Feb 13th with one to 14th. Two Dec 14th. Camel Est: one Feb 28th to Mar 12th. Mevagissey: one Mar 12th. Colliford Res: one Aug 30th to Sept 2nd. Hayle Est: one Oct 30th. Swanpool: one Dec 23rd.

RED-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps grisegna

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Most are noted in the sheltered bays of the south coast between Par and Falmouth. The most regular sites on the north coast are St Ives Bay and Camel Est. Due mainly to the sterling work of RL on the south coast over the last 5/6 years this species has been shown to be more common than previously thought - even outnumbering Great Crested Grebe nowadays! An account of RL's observations appears in 'Birds in Cornwall 1987' pps. 122-125. A total of ten birds overwintered from 1988 and there was a small influx in early January. A reduction in the number of birds at Veryan in early February coincided with an increase at Swanpool. 23 Birds lingered at several sites into March and there was two late in April. At least six were reported in September and there was good numbers at the end of the year. St Austell Bay: one from 1988, three Jan 17th to Feb 5th, then one or two until a peak of four Mar 11th. One Apr 25th. Two Sept 12th with one to 23rd. RL.MB.EG. et al. Veryan Bay: six from 1988 increased to 11 Jan 30th, but only three throughout February and one Mar 22nd and Apr 19th. One Sept 10th increasing to three by 23rd and five Nov 7th to 27th. Two Dec 22nd. RL. et al. : one from 1988 to Jan 7th. SCM. Stithians Res: one from 1988 to Jan 12th PG.CNT.JHWW. et al. Swanpool/: one from 1988 increased to five Jan 15th, six Jan 22nd and ten Feb 16th. 5/7 birds then regular to Mar 21st but only two Mar 22nd. One Dec 23rd. CCB.JMW et al. Helford Est: singles Jan 5th and Feb 22nd, two Mar 3rd with one to 5th. BC.PAW et al. Lynher Est: one Jan 8th. EG. Gerrans Bay: singles Jan 8th, Feb 11th and 23rd increasing to five Mar 11th but only three Mar 23rd. Two Dec 17th. PHA.RL.PAM et al. Carrick Roads: two Jan 15th. Singles Dec 3rd and 28th. RW.PAM.NJE. Mevagissey: two Mar 6th to 9th. Singles Sept 2nd and Oct 2nd. RL. Killigerran Head: one Mar 12th. Two Oct 21st, four Dec 16th, two Dec 17th and one Dec 24th - all west. PAM. Tamar Est: one Mar 12th. PRe. Bay: one Dec 2nd/3rd RWG. Rosemullion: one Dec 16th. BC. Crowan Res: one Dec 20th into 1990. DL. : one Dec 24th/25th DHP. Carnsew Pool: one Dec 26th into 1990. CCB.DSG.GHT. et al.

Red-Necked Grebes at Falmouth John Walters

SLAVONIAN GREBE - Podiceps auritus

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Whilst the preceding species has become progressively more obvious, there appears to have been a substantial reduction in the number of Slavonian Grebes visiting the county. The reason for this deterioration is not known. This year there were reports from only 20 localities, 14 on the south coast and six on the north coast. Good numbers overwintered from 1988. There was a small influx in early February and another in mid March. Few remained into April but two very late birds were off Bude May 6th.

24 The first return bird was at Loe Pool Sept 20th but then none until Nov 5th. Small numbers continued to arrive over the ensuing weeks but most were noted in and after the gales of mid December. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: six Jan 1st to Feb 21st. Four Dec 17th into 1990. Seaton: seven Jan 7th. Gerrans Bay: seven Jan 8th, ten Feb 3rd and Mar 11th. Four Nov 26th. Swanpool/Maenporth: ten Jan 15th and Feb 19th, 12 Mar 11th. Eight Dec 15th. St Austell Bay: 11 Jan 17th, 15 Feb 2nd and Mar 11th. Four Dec 15th. Looe: five Feb 26th. Killigerran Head: five flew west Dec 17th. Carrick Roads: six Dec 27th. St Johns Lake: five Dec 28th. There was no more than four at any other site.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps nigricoliis

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. The rarest of the grebes in Cornwall, but like the other species, most appear off the south coast with the main wintering area from Dodman Point to Carrick Roads. Much more likely to be encountered on inland waters than Slavonian Grebe. Apart from the Carrick Roads flock, a comparatively poor year. Mounts Bay: one from 1988 remained to Apr 22nd. RB.PG. et al. One Nov 26th into 1990. MS.DSF. et al. Carrick Roads: the nine in December 1988 had reduced to two Jan 15th and one Mar 5th. Four Nov 25th increased to ten Dec 3rd and 12 Dec 26th PAM.RL.RW. Helford Est: one Jan 23rd. SMC. Veryan Bay: two Jan 30th. RL. Newquay: one Dec 19th. DC.PC.

NORTHERN FULMAR - Fulmaris glacialis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. First bred in Cornwall in 1944 and has subsequently colonised the entire coast of the county. For recent breeding data see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987' (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 113-121) and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey 1985' (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 125-145). Breeding season reports for 1989 included the following: Trewethett, - four pairs, Ranie Point to Pentire - 244 sitting birds, to - c.60 pairs, - 28 on ledges, , Newquay - bred, Crantock - bred, Porth Joke - three pairs bred, Cligga Head - 20 pairs on ledges, St Agnes - 12 pairs on ledges, Portreath - 60 pairs on ledges, Godrevy - 25 pairs on ledges, - seven nests, Portloe - 12 nests (big reduction LSP.) and Fowey Est. entrance - four nests. Passage during the first half of the year was generally light with the only exceptions 350 off Jan 10th, 100 off Mevagissey Apr 30th and 100 off Newquay May 15th. The lack of autumn gales ensured a light early movement but the gales of December produced several high counts. The maximum included 160 off Newquay Aug 11th, 216 off Lizard Aug 13th, 200 at Port Isaac Dec 12th, 500 off Mevagissey Dec 16th, and 296 off Lizard Dec. 26th. Thirteen birds were reported during October, including six off Lizard on 29th which may have been the first returning post-moult birds. Blue phase birds were noted at Mevagissey (five Apr 30th) RL and Killigerran Head (singles west Apr 30th and Dec 24th) PAM.

CORY'S SHEARWATER - Calonectris diomedea

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) with occasional good years. Porthgwarra: a total of 291 flew west between Jul 29th and Sept 15th. Monthly

25 breakdown: July - four, August - 285, Sept - two. Maxima of 49 Aug 9th, 33 Aug 12th, 88+ Aug 13th, 61 Aug 14th and 45 Aug 15th. JH.DSF.DJO.DP. et al. Newquay: two Aug 11th. SMC. St Ives: two Aug 11th. SGR. : three Aug 11th. BC Lizard: one Aug 12th, 12 west and two east Aug 13th. SJM. Rame Head: two Aug 13th. RWG.AHJH. Porthcurno: one Aug 26th. HV.RW. Looe: one Dec 17th. EG. (The latest ever county mainland record). The total of c.317 is the third best ever - beaten only by 1980 and 1985 totals. The county mainland total moves to c.3843 - all since 1959. Monthly breakdown; April - one, May - two, June - five, July - 293, August - 3483 (91 %), Sept - 52, Oct - three, Nov. - two and Dec - two. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 3660 (95%), RMV Scillonian - 58 and St Ives - 37.

GREAT SHE\RWATER - Puffinus gravis

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Porthgwarra: a total of 168 noted between Aug 9th and Sept 15th - all but the last in August. Maxima of 94 Aug 13th and 59 Aug 14th. DP.RW.PHA. et al. Lizard: three Aug 13th. SJM. Killigerran Head: ten Aug 14th. PAM. St Ives: one Aug 25th SGR. : one Sept 22nd. PH.DS. The total of c. 183 is the third best on record - beaten only by 1965 and 1983. The county mainland total moves to c.1296 since 1930, prior to which data is very sketchy. Monthly breakdown; April - two, June - two, July - 63, August - 388, Sept - 741 (57%), Oct - 98 and Nov - two. Top sites are RMV Scillonian/at sea - 618, Porthgwarra - 377, Pendeen - 114 and St Ives - 97.

Shearwater sp (Cory's/Great).

Porthgwarra: 21 Aug 14th DSF, 12 Aug 15th DSF.DJO. and 22 Aug 18th DP.

SOOTY SHEARWATER - Puffinus griseus Passage migrant (mainly late summer and autumn). Occasional good years. Porthgwarra: a total of 233 west between Jul 29th and Oct 19th. Monthly breakdown: July - seven, August - 217, Sept - eight and Oct - one. Maxima of 65 Aug 13th and 60 Aug 14th. : one Jul 29th. (The first ever here). St Ives: a total of 82 west between Jul 30th and Oct 7th. Monthly breakdown: July - five, August - 19, Sept - 53, and Oct - five. Max: of 45 Sept 22nd. (The poorest year here since 1982). Pendeen: a total of 322 west between Jul 31st and Oct 21st. Monthly breakdown : July - two, August - 21, Sept - 200, and Oct - 99. Maxima of 200 Sept 22nd and 80 Oct 5th. Lizard: a total of 110 west between Aug 2nd and Dec 16th with a max of 15 Aug 13th. Newquay: two west Aug 11th. (The poorest year here since 1981). Rumps Point: one Aug 11th, two Aug 21st. : two Aug 13th and two Aug 14th. Mevagissey: singles Aug 14th and 19th, Nov 11th and Dec 16th. Killigerran Head: eight Aug 14th, three Nov 11th and two Dec 16th. Rame Head: one east Aug 16th, three west Sept 16th. Gurnards Head: ten Sept 22nd. RMV Scillonian: 22 Sept 25th. The total of c.810 is the fifth highest on record and takes the county mainland total to c. 12741 since 1937.

16 Top sites are St Ives - 5498 (43%), Pendeen - 3195 (25%) and Porthgwarra - 2381 (19%).

The birds of Dec 16th are the fourth latest ever.

MANX SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus Passage migrant (mainly late March to October). Feeding parties in summer presumably from breeding colonies on the islands off the coast of South Wales. Spring passage commenced very late with ten off Porthgwarra Apr 7th - the latest arrival date for at least twenty years. With the exception of 330 off Porthgwarra May 1st, 1884 off Newquay May 15th, 400 off Trevose Head May 17th and 305 off Pendeen the same day, passage was unremarkable. Summer and autumn passage in the settled weather conditions was not unexpectedly, light. The only observations of note were 170 off Pendeen Jul 31st and 130 off Lizard Aug 13th. Despite the lack of records throughout September and October there was more than normal in November and December. The total of 23 during November included nine off St Ives on 4th and four off Lizard on 11th, whilst two off Lizard Dec 16th were the latest since 1979. Overall, the poorest year since 1973.

BALEARIC SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus mauretanicus

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn but often quite late in the year). The Western Mediterranean race of Manx Shearwater. Status is currently under review and it seems likely that it will be regarded as a full species in due course. Widemouth Bay: one Jul 29th. (The first record here). Lizard: a total of 65 west between Jul 31st and Sept 20th with max of 26 Sept 16th. Pendeen: 15 west between Aug 11th and Oct 21st with max of eight Sept 22nd. Newquay: one Aug 11th, three Sept 22nd. Porthgwarra: a total of 39 west between Aug 12th and Sept 18th with max of 12 Sept 15th. St Ives: a total of 40 west between Aug 25th and Dec 22nd with max of 20 Sept 22nd.

Manx and Balearic Shearwaters Ashley Fisher

27 Mevagissey: one Sept 18th. RMV Scillonian: one Sept 25th. The total of c. 166 birds is the highest since 1981 and take the county mainland total since 1958 to c.4173. (Prior to 1958 there is very little data and in fact much of the information 1958 to 1970 is somewhat sketchy). Top sites are St Ives - 2340 (56%), Porthgwarra - 611, Lizard - 552, RMV Scillonian - 214, Newquay - 119 and Pendeen - 113.

BRITISH STORM PETREL - Hydrobates pelagicus

Uncommon passage migrant. Small feeding parties in summer months (mainly north coast). Breeding has not been proved in the county since at least 1968 but may occur unnoticed on islands off the north coast. Exceptionally rare inland. Rumps Point: two May 12th. Killigerran Head: eight Jun 9th and eight Aug 14th. Rosemullion Head: four Jun 9th and one Nov 11th. Lizard: three Jun 11th , then a total of 333 west between Jul 31st and Aug 21st with a max of 75 Aug 13th. Porthgwarra: a total of 356 west between Jun 13th and Sept 15th with max of 51 Aug 8th, 100 Aug 13th and 45 Aug 15th. (The best year here since 1983). Newquay: a total of 34 west between Jun 28th and Dec 23rd with a max of 20 Aug 16th. : a feeding party of c.60 offshore Jul 8th. RMV Scillonian: 11 Jul 24th, ten Aug 30th. Pendeen: a total of 82 west between Jul 31st and Sept 22nd with max of 33 Sept 13th. Cape Cornwall: 13 Aug 11th. St Ives: a total of 66 west between Sept 20th and Dec 22nd with max of 40 Sept 22nd. Mounts Bay: four Dec 21st. The Newquay bird of December 23rd is the latest ever county mainland record. PAM. The St Ives bird of Dec 22nd is the second latest ever DSF, whilst the four at Mounts Bay Dec 21st is the third latest and six at Newquay Dec 17th equal previous latest. DSF. DC.

Correction to 1988 Report

Pendeen: 40 Oct 7th (see also Leach's Petrel).

LEACH'i PETREL - Oceanodroma leuccorhoa

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) and generally occurring a little later than Storm Petrel. St Ives: five Sept 22nd, four Oct 7th, singles Oct 8th and 28th, three Nov 5th 36 Dec 22nd - all west. DSF.JMW.DMY. et al. Newquay: two Sept 22nd, two Dec 17th, 70 Dec 23rd. TMC.JH.DC.PAM.NJE.DEE. Pendeen: one Sept 22nd. DSF.PH. Rosemullion: one Oct 19th. BC. Lizard: singles Nov 10th and Dec 17th. SJM. Tamar Est: one Dec 17th. GG. St Johns Lake: four Dec 17th, one Dec 18th. RWG. Culdrose: one Dec 21st. SB. Perranwell Station: one flew into a window and died Dec 22nd. RDP. Bude: 15th Dec 23rd. IK.SK.FHCK. et al. Killigerran Head: one Dec 24th PAM. Looe: one Dec 25th SCM. Loe Pool: one Dec 25th SB. The total of c.154 is the third highest ever - beaten only by 1952 and 1974 - and take

28 the county mainland total to c.1931. Although the autumn passage was undistinguished, the severe December gales re­ wrote the record books. The 70 at Newquay is the third largest single day passage in the county, whilst the 36 at St Ives is the highest single day passage there since 1978 and the 15 at Bude the highest ever at that locality. The Tamar Est., St John Lake, Culdrose and Perranwell Station were all 'firsts' at those localities, with the last two only the seventh and eighth inland records.Top sites are St Ives - 1378 (71%), Newquay - 231, Pendeen - 65, Godrevy/Navax - 63 and Bude - 48. Monthly breakdown: Jan - three, Mar - one, Apr - two, May - two, Jun - two, Aug — ten, Sept — 1014 (53%), Oct - 533, Nov — 210 and Dec - 152.

Correction to 1988 Report

Pendeen: delete 40 Oct 7th (see also Storm Petrel).

NORTHERN GANNET - Sula bassana Passage migrant. Bred on Gulland Island off Padstow until 1478 but the nearest present day colony is situated on Grassholm, Penbrokeshire. Several days of reasonable passage in Jan/Feb and again from Sept to Dec but very few in spring and summer. Heaviest passage: Killigerran Head: 2400 west in three hours Jan 13th. Portscatho: 450 Jan 23rd and 400 Feb 8th. Mevagissey: 400 Jan 27th, 1000 Nov 10th. Newquay: 750 Feb 5th and 1260 Feb 13th. Lizard: 832 Sept 16th, 788 Sept 17th, 707 Nov 10th, 2055 Nov 11th and 776 Dec 16th. St Ives: 700 Oct 7th. Porthgwarra: 100 east in three minutes Oct 9th. Inland there was one at Drift Res. Sept 19th.

CORMORANT - Phalacrocorax carbo

Resident. Breeds at a number of sites on both coasts. Occurs on all reservoirs and most other large freshwater pools from time to time. The species bred at The Moules and probably at Tregudda Gorge, Horse Rock (Portreath) and . For comparative detail see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987 (Birds in Cornwall 1987 pps. 113 — 121) and Breeding Seabirds Survey 1985 (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pps. 125 — 145). Several good counts were received this year, notably from the south east of the county. Maximum numbers: Tamar Est: 70 January and August. 100 October. Camel Est: 33 Jan 15th and Mar 12th. 25 Aug 19th. Porthgwarra: 34 flew west May 3rd. Colliford Res: 28 Aug 13th. St Johns Lake: 54 Aug 19th. 41 Nov 12th. St Ives: 70 west Aug 28th. Two roosts were reported; one in an old tree at and the other at Colliford Res. The latter attracted 18 birds Dec 28th and RS wonders if inland roosts are unusual?

SHAG - Phalacrocorax aristotelis

Resident. Breeds on both coasts. Passage migrant. Very rare inland. Very poorly reported this year. c.40 pairs at Godrevy failed to breed successfully possibly due to nest destruction by vandals DSF. Elsewhere a small colony was reported from Lands End by CLB and 18 birds were

29 observed at Tregudda Gorge by AL. For recent comparative breeding information see references under 'Cormorant'. Maximum numbers: Trevose Head: 120 Jan 15th to 20th. 45 west Oct 7th. East Pentire: 110 Mar 5th. Godrevy: 83 June/July. Caerthillian: 85 August. St Anthony Head: 100 Nov 18th.

BBRC decision All claims of the Mediterranean race 'Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii' have been rejected.

BITTERN - Botaurus stellaris

A rare winter visitor occurring mainly between late October and early March. Occasional passage migrant. Most records relate to birds displaced by severe weather in western and central Europe. The species has been a more regular visitor to the county since 1981. Lizard: one flew west Nov 24th. SP. Marazion Marsh: one Dec 3rd (into 1990?). CCB The county mainland total since 1930 moves to c. 108. Peak months are January - 36 (33%), February - 25 and December - 19. Top sites are Marazion - 28, Loe Pool - ten, Par - nine and Porth Res. and Camel Est. - four apiece. Rather surprisingly there appears to be only three previous records from peninsula during the same period; Goonhilly (1982), Poldhu (1957) and Lanarth (1951).

LITTLE EGRET - Egretta garzetta

Rare passage migrant. Overwintered 1943/4, 1980/1 and 1989/90. The impetus of recent years has been totally eclipsed by the events of 1989. A mini - invasion of this species was experienced along the south coast with records from all counties from Kent to Cornwall. With several birds overwintering into 1990 the prospect of breeding in the county is now much less remote than previously thought. Systematic checking of heronries particularly those on the south coast could prove extremely rewarding. The following records are grouped geographically rather than chronologically. Camel Est: singles Jun 24th and from Jul 18th to Sept 19th. Another Aug 15th to Sept 19th. PAM.DIJ.SMC.et al. Lynher Est/Tamar Est/St John Lake: a complex series of records involving at least three birds. The first was at Lynher Est. Jul 15th and may have been the same as one at Tamar Est. Aug 11th. This bird remained to Aug 31st, another was present Aug 15th to 31st and a third Aug 22nd to Sept 9th. One bird remained in the area into 1990. RWG.JMC.BH.SCM. Ruan Lanihorne: two Aug 3rd to 5th with one to Oct 23rd. JAJ.JEM. et al. Truro River: one (presumed the second Ruan bird) Aug 18th to 19th and 27th. PAM.BKM. Restronguet/: one Aug 24th to 27th (presumed same as Truro bird) and again Sept 16th to 21st and Dec 9th into 1990. BC.JHWW. Hayle Est: two Aug 10th increasing to three Aug 21st, five Aug 22nd to Sept 26th. Numbers then reduced to four Sept 30th, three to Oct 5th, two to Oct 22nd and one to Dec 5th. Two were then regular into 1990 but six were noted Dec 10th. PG.DL.SGR.JH.LPW. et al. Gwithian: one flew south west Dec 14th PAR. Marazion Marsh: ten Aug 18th but only five Aug 20th, two Aug 21st and one to 28th. One Sept 19th. DP.CCB. et al. Stithians Res: seven Aug 20th (part of the Marazion flock?). JH. Helford Est: one Aug 29th to Sept 10th. IG et al.

30 Trevorrian Pool: one Aug 21st to 24th. JFR.EG. Gannel Est: one Nov 27th into 1990, another Dec 14th into 1990. SMC.TMC.LW. , Newquay: one Dec 12th to 14th. (presumably the second Gannel bird) HM. Fowey Est: one Dec 12th into 1990. SMC.MB. et al. Very difficult to assess the actual number of birds involved. Taking the maxima at each site there is a possible total of 38 but obviously there is some duplication of wandering individuals and the actual total is probably 20/25. Taking the higher figure the county mainland total is now c.105. Monthly breakdown: March - two, April - 24, May - 14, June - five, July - three, August - 36, Sept - five, Oct - four, Nov — four, Dec — four, undated - four. Top sites are Marazion - 17, Hayle Est - 16, Camel Est - nine, Sithians Res - seven and Tamar Est - five.

GREAT WHITE EGRET -

Rare vagrant. Fal Est: one Jun 23rd to Jul 24th. BC.EGe.PAM et al. The third county mainland record — previous occurrences in 1951 and 1948. What may have been the same bird was seen earlier in Devon, Somerset and all points north! Accepted by B.B.R.C.

Great White Egret John waiters

31 (One, as seen on T.V. at Loe Pool 1st June 1978 was never claimed and one at Falmouth in 1866 was considered by Rodd to be a Spoonbill, but included by Penhallurick (1976) as the present species. However it is unlikely, on the evidence available, that this record would be accepted today and is therefore best left in square brackets).

GREY HERON - Ardea cinerea

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Breeding was reported from the following heronries during 1989 (with comparative data for 1983/8). (nc = no count, p = present but not counted. Figures = number of nests counted.) 89 88 87 86 85 84 83 Shillingham, Lynher Est: 10 17? - - - - Looe: 9 12/13 6 8/9 7 n-c 8 , Fowey Est: 16 13 1 + 6 nc 8 9 Penpol, Fowey Est: 1 (the first count here since 1970). Borlase Wood, : 5 8 6 3 6 nc nc Trewince Wood: 9 11 Pelyn, Percuil: 7 7 -9 2- -5 n-c -3 St Just in Roseland: 4 1 1 - - - - Malpas: 10 nc 12 6 10 5 + nc Cododden Wood, Fal Est: 4 (a new site) Pill Farm, Trelissick: 6 2/3 (the first record here since 1940?) , Helford Est: 10 11 10 + nc 3 + nc nc Marazion 4 6 + 7 6 6 1/2 3 Camel Est: 16 P P 14 10/12 P 9/10 Sladesbridge: 3 4 nc nc nc nc 6/8

Additional 1988 heronries were reported from Colleycliff Wood, - three or four nests (also four in 1987 - a new heronry) and Merryhue, Newbridge - five or six nests for several years. CFNHC. The total of c. 114 nests is most encouraging and augurs well for the future. On the debit side none has been proved breeding on Bodmin Moor since 1984, although two at Halvana Apr 10th this year were in suitable habitat. JCP has provided the following information for the Tamar Lake area: Seven nests were noted here in 1978 but subsequently the heronry has moved just over the county border to Lana. The heronry has existed there for twelve years (corresponding with the loss from the Cornwall side of the border) and numbered at least ten nests in 1989. The improvement in heronry size is illustrated by higher counts on many estuaries: Devoran: 23 Jan 20th. 24 Sept 19th. Lynher Est: 46 Jan 21st. 31 Sept 20th. Percuil: 19 Jan 27th. Camel Est: 27 Feb 21st. 35 Sept 30th. Truro River: 22 Jun 18th. Polwheveral: 33 Jul 22nd. St Johns Lake: 33 Sept 16th. Marazion Marsh: 22 Sept 19th. Tamar Est: 31 Sept 20th. Pre-1975 data is very sketchy, particularly of maximum numbers, but comparison with more recent information reveals the following: The Devoran and Marazion peak counts are about the average of recent years. The Lynher count of 46 is the highest there since at least 1975 and the second highest anywhere in the county over the same period.

32 The Camel Est. counts are both above the norm with 35 the highest count since at least 1975. The Truro count of 22 equals the recent highest. The St Johns Lake count is the highest there since at least 1975 and the Tamar Est. count is the highest I can find for that site.

PURPLE HERON - Ardea purpurea

Vagrant (mainly spring). 1982 St Germans: one May 21st to 25th A. & P. Blondon. Accepted by BBRC. The nineteenth county mainland record. A typical date. Peak months are April with eight and May with six.

BLACK STORK - Ciconia nigra

Very rare vagrant. Hayle Est: one flew north May 4th. ARP. Camel Est: one flew north May 9th. SMC.REW.JAW. The fifth and sixth county mainland records. This species is occurring more frequently in Northwest Europe and this is reflected in an increased number of records in the U.K. Previous Cornish records were in 1988 (two), 1977 and 1831. Both accepted by BBRC.

GLOSSY IBIS - Plegadis falcinellus

Rare vagrant 1986 record

Camel Est: the St Merryn bird visited the estuary Oct 17th. GJC.DIJ.ML. et al.

SPOONBILL - Platalea leucorodia Rare passage migrant. Occasionally overwinters, especially on the Lynher Estuary. Hayle Est: one Sept 27th. PG. Lynher Est: juvenile Oct 22nd into 1990. RJL.RS. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.165 this century (but obviously some duplication of wandering and returning individuals). Evidently much more common in the 19th century. Birds have arrived in every month of the year with peaks of 40 in October and 34 in November. Spring records are less frequent with 17 in April the peak. Top sites are Ruan Lanihorne - 28, Tamar Est - 24, Camel Est - 22, Hayle Est - 20, Marazion - 19 and Lynher Est - eleven.

MUTE SWAN - Cygnus olor

Resident. Breeds. Moulting herds in autumn. Winter visitor. There has been evidence of a general decline over the last twenty years but hopefully the population has now stabilised. There appears to have been a change in the autumn moulting area. Formerly the largest herd was noted at St Johns Lake but now appears to visit other sites at Looe and Fal Est. In 1989 successful breeding was noted at the following sites (with comparative data for the years 1984-8). (p = present, success not known, n = nest, unsuccessful or success not known. Figures = number of young; in some cases more than one successful nest).

33 89 88 87 86 85 84 6 n 1/n - - - Polridmouth 4 P P P 1 P Par Beach Pool 2 5 8 4 7 P St Andrews Pool, Par 7 - 2 n 4 P 4 6 - n - Caerhays 1 + - 5 n 2 3 Truro 7 - - - - - Ruan Lanihorne 5 3 7 - - - Trelissick 6 - - - n - Mylor 4 6 - - - - Stithians Res. 5 6/5 5/n/n 4 1 - Clowance Pond 3 - - - - - Helston Amenity Area 7 - 7 7 - - Helston Park Lake 6 - 6 n 7 5 Loe Pool 5/n - - 4 3 6 Bude Canal 3 1 2 n 4/n - Unsuccessful pairs were noted at Camel Est., St John, Wacker Lake, St Just in Roseland and Long Rock Pool. A nest was built at Swanpool but there was no follow up information. Maximum numbers reported during the year: Falmouth/Penryn: 20 Jan /Mar, 30 Sept 17th. Loe Pool: 11 Jan 10th, 33 Aug 1st (A record count here). Camel Est: 18 Jan 24th, 15 Oct 31st. Hayle Est: 18 Jan 27th, 36 Oct 13th, 49 Dec 15th (A record count here). Looe: 42 Feb 5th, 31 Sept. Tamar Est: 22 Jul 28th. Devoran: 33 Oct 15th. Truro: 27 Dec 15th. Tresillian: 39 Dec 29th.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 115 115 71 29 28 31 29 48 143 141 133 126 Hayle Est. 6 14 - - - - 3 6 16 19 32 49 Devoran 5 8 3 4 6 4 1 - 4 33 13 2 Camel Est. 13 12 7 nc nc nc nc nc nc nc 15 12 Looe 28 32 14 nc nc nc - 19 31 22 nc nc Lynher Est. 5 8 5 11 5 8 2 2 2 1 12 3 St Johns Lake 8 8 8 7 8 3 - 9 4 5 11 12 Tamar Est. 2 2 - 2 6 1 21 6 6 7 4 5 The county wintering population remains steady. 42 of the birds at Hayle in December were at Copperhouse Creek. Several reports were received of autumn migrants occurring at unusual localities; Crowdy Res: three Oct 15th. Trevose Head: three flew south Nov 1st. Crowan Res: one Nov 6th. : four Nov 18th.

BEWICK'S SWAN - Cygnus columbianus

Scarce winter visitor and pasage migrant. Annual since 1959. Camel Est: two flew east Oct 17th DIJ Loe Pool: juvenile Nov 23rd ARP. The sixth poor year in succession. These three take the county mainland total to c.444 since 1930, prior to which there is a paucity of information. There are records for all months from October to April with peak passage in

34 November - 123, December - 103 and January - 113. The Camel Est. birds are the second earliest autumn arrivals on record. Camel Est. remains the top site with 61, followed by Dozmary Pool - 59, Hayle Kimbro Pool - 56, Lower Tamar Lake - 46 and Hayle Est. - 33. The Loe Pool bird is the first there since 1968.

WHOOPER SWAN - Cygnus cygnus

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1971. Penberth: five immatures flew west Oct 30th. SB.DSF. The county mainland total moves to c.384 since 1930, prior to which there is very little detailed information. Birds have arrived in all months from September to April with peaks of 153 (40%) in November, 76 in December and 81 in January. Top sites are Camel Est. - 70, Lower Tamar Lake and Hayle Est. - 36, Marazion Marsh - 31 and Loe Pool and Tamar Est. - 22.

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE - Anser brachyrhynchus

Rare passage migant and winter visitor Loe Pool: the 1988 bird remained until Apr 19th. JSG. JW. Upper Tamar Res: two adults Dec 6th to 27th. SMC.IK. The latter birds take the county mainland total to c.46, involved in fifteen occurrences. The Loe Pool bird is the second latest ever. Peak months are Sept - 21 and Oct - 11. Top sites are - 20 (a single gaggle), Walmsley Sanctuary - six and Tamar Lakes and Tamar Est. - five each.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE - Anser albifrons

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Most birds arriving in Cornwall are of the Eurasian race 'Anser albifrons albifrons' but small numbers of the rare Greenland race 'Anser albifrons flavirostris' occasionally occur. The species was formerly more numerous with a regular wintering flock at the Walmsley Sanctuary from 1935 to 1973. The size of the flock peaked at an average of 146 in 1961 to 1965 (excluding huge numbers in 1963), but since 1973 birds have arrived less regularly with none between 1982 and 1988. The reasons for this decline are not fully understood and have not been properly investigated. A number of factors are probably involved but the two most popular theories are also probably the two most relevant. The first relates to the succession of mild winters in the late 1970's and early 1980's which resulted in fewer White- fronts being forced into the far south west with a subsequent loss of homing instinct. The second, and probably more valid explantion, concerns the change in the botanical make-up of the Sanctuary and adjacent Amble Marshes as a result of the damming and straightening of the River Amble. Initially the effect was minimal but persistent dredging of the river bed has resulted in a substantial lowering of the water table. There has thus been a gradual drying up of the Sanctuary compounded by a lack of inundation by salt water in recent years. Sluice gates installed in ditches were originally opened at regular intervals in order to maintain a degree of salinity in the marshes but the recent lack of flooding has resulted in an apparently irrevocable change in the ecology of the Sanctuary. Some remedial work has already been completed but there is still much to be done. In any case it seems unlikely that the species will ever regularly winter here in good numbers again. Upper Tamar Res: juvenile ' flavirostris' from 1988 to Jan 2nd. SMC.TJD.IK.SK. Walmsley Sanctuary: two Jan 4th. Six 'flavirostris' Jan 11th to Mar 28th. DL.ACH.DIJ.BCW. et al. Zennor: four Oct 29th/30th. BKM.RW. et al.

35 Cot Valley: eleven Oct 29th. JFR. Porthgwarra: four Oct 30th. PG. Crowdy Res: eleven Nov 2nd. 20 Nov 9th. ML.AMJD. Drift Res: four Nov 4th. CCB. The Zennor, Porthgwarra and Drift Res. were presumably the same, as may have been the Cot and Crowdy birds. 1988 record

The Goonhilly birds were 'flavirostris'.

GREYLAG GOOSE - Anser anser Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Many birds are undoubtedly feral escapes or wanderers. Most records refer to the western race 'Anser anser anser' but the estern race 'Anser anser rubirostris' also occurs occasionally. Croft Pascoe Pool: two Feb 5th. JD. Walmsley Sanctuary: one 'anser' with the White-fronts Mar 14th to 20th. FMC.SMC. These three take the county mainland total to c. 114 since 1930. Birds have arrived in every month of the year except June with peaks of 23 in October, 32 in November, 20 in December and 12 in January. Top sites are Camel Est./Amble Marshes - 47, Kynance - ten, Tamar Lakes - eight and Hayle Kimbro Pool - seven.

CANADA GOOSE - Branta canadensis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Prior to 1983, apart from odd migrants the species was almost exclusively confined to south east Cornwall. Between 1968 and 1975 there was an average of just one bird per annum and apart from a small influx in the arctic winter of 1963, only nine birds were reported before 1968. The following table shows how breeding, first noted in 1983, has increased to the extent that the species is on the brink of reaching plague proportions, as it has done in many other areas.

89 88 87 86 85 84 83 Crowdy Res. 21 15 6 8 7 5 4 Lynher Est. 6 - - 4 - - - Colliford Res. P 5 5 5 - - - Fleardon Farm P 4 B 4 - - Lanivet P - Coads Green B------Notter Bridge n - - B - - - - Uoner Tamar Res. - - - - - 4- -1 N.B. - Figures represent numbe- r of young, -B = bred- , n -= nest and p = present.

Despite the foregoing the species remains a scarce wanderer to the west of the county. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: noted until March with max of 146 Jan 2nd. 102 Aug 18th were the first for the autumn, but birds were then present in fluctuating numbers to the end of the year. New county maxima were reached with 159 Oct 20th and 179 Dec 6th. Crowdy Res: noted throughout the year with max of 56 Jan 27th, 79 Jul 5th and 52 Dec 31st. Colliford Res: scarce in the first winter and spring with max of only 13 Feb 12th. A post - breeding flock of 60 Jun 17th, but few into September before a build up to 66

36 Nov 12th and 98 Dec 28th. Lynher Est: noted throughout the year with max of ten Jan 10th and 96 Nov 9th. Elsewhere in the first winter and spring periods there were reports from 14 localities. Most records were single day sighting of up to five birds, but there was also eight at Tintagel Jun 3rd and six at Camel Est. Jun 9th. Post-breeding dispersal was noted from mid - June and birds were observed at eight additional sites to the end of the year. Of particular interest were the following: Siblyback Res: 20 Jul 8th. 64 December. Dozmary Pool: 38 Aug 5th. : 12 flew west Sept 18th. Tamar Est: 120+ Sept 30th. 135 Nov 21st. St Johns Lake: 20 Nov 19th. The Tamar Lake, Crowdy Res., Colliford Res., Siblyback Res., Tamar Est. and Lynher Est. peak counts are all new maxima at the respective sites.

BARNACLE GOOSE - Branta leucopsis

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, feral escape. Most of the recent Cornish records probably relate to feral escapes. This certainly applies to all of the 1989 records. Hawkstor: three May 27th. AHJH. Crowdy Res: two Jun 14th to 26th. BTC.ML. Upper Tamar Res: one Sept 5th, two Sept 9th and one to Dec 27th. GPS.JDB.ABR. et al. Pentewan: one Oct 25th to Nov 4th. RL. Par Beach Pool: one (the Pentewan bird) Nov 5th into 1990. RL.MB.SMC. Assuming that the Hawkstor, Crowdy and Upper Tamar Res. birds are the same birds wandering about with the Canada Goose flock, the county mainland total moves to c.206 (including at least 25 presumed feral birds). Of those considered to be genuinely wild birds all have occurred between Sept 17th and Mar 13th with peak arrivals in Oct - 57, Sept - 31, Nov - 28 and Feb - 26. Top sites are Tamar Est. - 30 (all one gaggle), Camel Est. - 19, Godrevy - 18 and St Ives - 14.

BRENT GOOSE - Branta bernicla

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Both dark-bellied (Branta bernicla bernicla) and pale-bellied (Branta bernicla hrota) have been reported in increased numbers in recent years but we still do not have a regular wintering flock. In the first winter period the only birds reported were the three dark-bellied overwintering at Camel Est. which remained until Jan 10th. In spring there were singles at Bude May 3rd and Camel Est. May 4th to 9th. Autumn passage was the best on record, involving as many as 175 birds. Two distinct waves of birds were noted; the first Sept 13th to Oct 13th involved many pale-bellied birds whilst the second Nov 13th to 20th consisted mainly of dark- bellied birds. Overwintering birds were at four sites. St Ives: 30 'hrota' Sept 13th DSF. (The largest gaggle ever of this race in Cornwall). One Dec 19th. Lizard: 12 few east Sept 15th. Helford Est: 14 Sept 24th, 24 Sept 30th to Oct 8th. Hayle Est: one 'hrota' Sept 29th to Oct 2nd. Two 'bernicla' Oct 6th to 13th and one 'bernicla' Nov 21st to Dec 19th. Camel Est: six Sept 30th. One or two regular Oct 26th into 1990. Mounts Bay: 11 'hrota' Oct 6th to 13th. 11 'bernicla' Nov 15th and up to four to Nov 27th. Bude: three Oct 10th with one to 12th. One or two regular Nov 17th to 23rd. Nine Nov 30th and two south Dec 23rd. Par: two Oct 11th with one on 21st and five Oct 30th. Seven Nov 17th/18th, nine Nov 19th. Three Dec 28th into 1990.

37 Carrick Roads: 11 Oct 14th. Five Nov 23rd with two to Dec 9th. Ruan Lanihorne: one Nov 13th, six Nov 19th. Tamar Est: one Nov 16th to 21st. Trevose Head: four flew west Nov 16th. St Johns Lake: six Nov 19th. One Dec 2nd to 17th and five Dec 28th. Crowdy Res: one Dec 3rd BTC.ML. (Very rare inland in Cornwall). Lynher Est: four Dec 22nd to 31st.

Goose sp. Trevose Head: 24 flew west Nov 15th PAM. (Probably grey type). Bude: five flew north Nov 25th IK. (Grey type).

Hybrid goose Colliford Res: Canada x Greylag type Feb 19th. Canada x Chinese type Feb 19th. Two Canada x Greylag type Jun 17th. Upper Tamar Res: Canada x Barnacle type Oct 10th to 20th.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE - Alopechen aegyptiacus

Rare visitor. Feral escape or wanderer. This Category 'C species occurs as a feral species in the U.K., mainly in East Anglia but with small populations elsewhere, including East Devon. Camel Est: one from 1987 remained throughout the year again and was joined by another Jul 2nd to early December. AL. et al. : one from 1988 to at least Jun 16th. MB.GRW.MW. Lakefield, : one from early May to at least November, per EGe. 1988 record. Landulph: one Jul 9th. per CFNHC. A total of eleven was recorded in Cornwall between 1841 and 1878 but there was no further published record until 1981. The two new birds listed above take the post — 1981 total to 13.

RUDDY SHELDUCK - Tadorna ferruginea

Vagrant, but the majority, if not all, are presumed escapes from wildfowl collections or wanderers from a feral population in The Netherland. Restronguet: one Feb 5th/6th. JHWW.RLL.LML. Trelissick, Fal Est: one Mar 24th. JD. Presumably the 1988 bird.

SHELDUCK - Tadorna tadorna

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding reports were received from (with number of young in parentheses): Tamar Est. (18), St Johns Lake (seven), Fowey Est. (seven and six), Percuil (two), Malpas (26), Ruan Lanihorne (24), Hayle Est. (eleven, four and three), Camel Est. (three), Upper Tamar Res. (two) and Lower Tamar Lake ( no detail). Possibly bred at Tremayne, Helford. Contrary to DSF's comments below numbers in both winter periods were generally lower than normal: Devoran: 90 Jan 2nd. 34 Dec 23rd. St Johns Lake: 257 Jan 10th. 220 Dec 27th. Tamar Est: 77 January and March. 65 December. Lynher Est: 172 March. 242 December. Camel Est: 156 Jan 12th. 85 Nov 24th. Truro River: 70 Jan 15th. 38 Dec 17th. Hayle Est: 96 Feb 25th. 15 Dec 19th. Ruan Lanihorne: 124 Apr 8th.

Whilst researching historical data I was puzzled to note that all recent annual

38 maxima at Ruan Lanihorne have occurred in the spring months March to June, whereas the other major sites invariably attract peak numbers during the winter months December to February.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1989. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 733 792 769 389 376 267 134 86 15 19 151 684 Hayle Est. 55 64 47 - - - 17 14 6 6 5 15 Devoran 45 41 33 15 15 7 - _ _ 4 _ 30 Truro River 57 46 61 15 28 42 24 21 _ _ 17 38 Ruan Lanihorne 12 41 51 - 80 29 _ nc nc nc 21 17 Camel Est. 156 117 98 nc nc nc nc nc nc nc 20 99 St Johns Lake 257 243 243 127 55 47 9 1 2 3 28 140 Lynher Est. 45 125 172 131 77 73 9 - - - 34 242

A peak of 792 in the county in February compares with 712 in 1987 and 445 in 1988 for the same month. The county total of 7/800 birds in mid winter is slightly higher than recent years but below the average winter maxima of 1350 for the period 1959 - 84. (Flumm, D.S. 'Birds in Cornwall' 1985) and in particular Tresillian which has held 390 birds in the past, now hardly figures - 34 in May being the peak for the year!

AMERICAN WOOD DUCK - Aix sponsa

Escapee. Feral release. A Category 'D' species. Malpas: immature drake Apr 29th. GJC. The eighth county mainland record.

MANDARIN DUCK - Aix galericulata

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Escapee. Feral release. A Category 'C species. Most Cornish records probably derive from the small feral population in the Plym Est. area of South Devon. Lake, Newquay: drake from 1988 throughout the year. BTSC. et al. Swanpool: drake from 1988 to Jan 9th.BC.AHT. et al. Lynher Est: single females Jan 14th to 28th SCM and Oct 14th. RWG. Lostwithiel: drake Mar 5th to Apr 7th and Oct 1st. MB.KAWP.GRW.MW. et al. Marazion Marsh: female Mar 27th. JH.WGL.IM. Truro River: drake Apr 29th and Oct 6th to 28th. GJC.SL.RW. Another good year, even ignoring the long - stayers at Newquay, Lostwithiel and Swanpool. The county mainland total moves to c.37 - all since 1973. Birds have arrived in all months from September to April with a peak of eleven in November. Top sites are Camel Est. - eight, - six (one flock) and Lynher Est. - five.

WIGEON - Anas penelope

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. The persistent mild weather in both winter periods again resulted in low numbers visiting the county. In the first winter period very few remained after mid February and there was a mere three in spring - the last being a female at Ruan Lanihorne May 18th. Autumn passage commenced with four at Lower Tamar Lake Aug 19th followed by 18 at Hayle Est. Sept 2nd. Only Hayle and Lynher Est. attracted appreciable flocks.

39 Maximum numbers: Hayle Est: 886 Jan 10th. 600 Oct 7th. 1200 Nov 25th. 888 Dec 19th. Colliford Res: 306 Jan 10th. Lynher Est: 464 January. 650 Dec 17th. Ruan Lanihorne: 306 Jan 10th. Camel Est: 258 Feb 10th. 180 Dec 12th. No more than 150 was seen at any other site in either winter period.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1989. Jan Feb Mar Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 2162 1430 203 247 1023 1663 1953 Hayle Est. 886 354 9 100 742 877 820 Stithians Res. 146 119 36 30 120 Camel Est. 139 258 nc- nc- 62 65 Colliford Res. 306 145 1-0 35 103 Lynher Est. 464 350 140 121- 260- 498 650

The December count of 1953 compares with 2172 in 1988 and 1547 in 1987. Hayle Est./Copperhouse was the most favoured site as usual.

AMERICAN WIGEON - Anas americana

Rare vagrant. 1988 record

The Stithians bird accepted by BBRC.

GADWALL - Anas strepera Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A potential breeding species. Reasonable numbers were counted in both winter periods. Very few passed through in spring with the last at Marazion May 3rd. The first return birds were two at Colliford Res. Sept 13th, but few were noted until mid November. Regular reports in both winter periods: Par: up to six Jan/Mar with a male throughout the year. Four Oct 16th increasing to eight Nov 16th but only five to the end of the year. Loe Pool: noted until Feb 11th with a site record of 27 Jan 27th. One Sept 20th and then from Nov 26th to Dec 10th with a max of 23 Dec 2nd. Hayle Est: up to seven Jan 16th to 27th. Four Nov 13th. Up to three birds were also noted at Tamar Lakes, Lynher Est., Colliford Res., Tamar Est. and Godrevy in both winter periods. Elsewhere in the first winter there was maxima of 14 at Drift Res. Jan 10th and up to three at Stithians Res. and Marazion. In autumn and the second winter birds were regular at Marazion/Long Rock Pool from Sept 30th with a max of 20 Dec 29th. At Devoran a site record of seven was reported Nov 22nd and at Hayle Kimbro Pool a site record of eight was set Dec 22nd. Elsewhere there was up to four at St Johns Lake, Camel Est. and Porth Res.

TEAL - Anas crecca

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeding has been reported only sporadically over the last twenty years and all records apart from one at in 1970, have emanated from Bodmin Moor, with Crowdy Res. the most regular site. This year there was no breeding season information although there was a very late drake at Lamorran May 27th. Generally, numbers in both winter periods were below average despite a good scatter of sightings, particularly in the second winter. Maximum numbers: Porth Res: 146 Jan 3rd. 185 Nov 1st. (The highest and third highest counts ever here). 40 Colliford Res: 91 Jan 10th. 132 Oct 15th. Truro River: 257 Jan 10th. 350 Nov 21st. Stithians Res: 108 Jan 10th. Maer Lake: 400 Jan 12th. 250 Dec 17th. (The highest and third highest counts ever here). Crowdy Res: 143 Jan 14th. 230 Dec 6th. Lynher Est: 140 Jan 22nd. 180 Dec 1st. Hayle Est: 305 Jan 25th. 241 Oct 15th. 340 Dec 19th. Tamar Lakes: 130 January. 372 Dec 6th (the highest count ever here). Devoran: 152 Feb 12th. 220 Dec 9th. Ruan Lanihorne: 110 Nov 13th. Camel Est: 115 Dec 1st. Tamar Est: 129 Dec 17th.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1989. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 1180 800 177 4 1 3 - 48 221 676 670 1330 Hayle Est 124 42 7 - - - - 2 71 241 115 340 Stithians Res 108 65 - nc nc nc nc nc nc 7 63 109 Truro River 257 150 77 - - - - 18 - 40 77 150 Crowdy Res 143 5 3 nc nc nc nc nc 51 61 nc - Colliford Res 91 31 31 nc nc nc nc nc 12 132 49 83 Lynher Est 41 29 6 2 - 147 43 Tamar Est 52 22 42 - - - - 1 - 17 46 196 The peak of 1330 in December compares with 974 in December 1988 and 1424 in December 1987. These figures are below the average winter maxima of c.2000 for the years 1959 - 84 (Flumm, D.S. 'Birds in Cornwall 1985'), but are not totally unexpected in view of the recent run of mild winters.

GREEN-WINGED TEAL - Anas crecca carolinensis

Vagrant. The North American race of Teal, drakes of which are easily separable from the nominate race. Lynher Est: drake Jan 10th to 21st. SCM. Colliford Res: drake Jan 26th. RS. Lower Tamar Lake: drake Oct 17th to 23rd. IK.DJR. Accepted by BBRC. These three take the county mainland total to c.32 occurrences (involving at least 24 birds) since 1962. The Tamar Lake bird is the second earliest ever in autumn. Birds have arrived in all months from October to May with peaks of eight in December, seven in October and six in January. Top sites are Hayle Est. with eight, Stithians Res. with five and Marazion with four.

MALLARD - Anas platyrhynchos

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor Breeding was reported from Par, Tresillian, Truro, Penryn, Stithians Res., Marazion, Gwithian, Porth Joke, Trenance Lake, Porth Res., Camel Est., Redtye Pools and Tamar Lakes. First winter flocks were smaller than normal, autumn passage was fairly pronounced but few at the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Crowdy Res: 156 Jan 2nd. 250 Sept 24th. Tamar Lakes: 76 Jan 2nd. 101 Sept 4th. 155 Oct 16th. 190 Dec 6th. Porth Res: 70 Jan 3rd. 155 Aug 1st. 110 Nov 1st. Lynher Est: 116 Jan 10th. 312 November.

41 Par: 113 Jan 10th. Loe Pool: 135 Jan 12th. 180 Jul 8th. 236 Sept 16th. Camel Est: 74 Jan 15th. 110 Aug 21st. Colliford Res: 126 Feb 1st. 132 Oct 15th. Caerhays Lake: 105 Oct 12th. (A very high number here). Ruan Lanihorne: 200 Oct 24th. Tamar Est: 194 October. 195 December.

Monthly NWC/BOEE counts at principal localities - 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec County total 1048 571 288 82 108 125 74 98 1417 1265 1326 1200 Loe Pool 53 24 4 nc nc nc nc nc 236 144 27 24 Tresillian 72 27 10 3 3 18 3 1 70 28 107 104 Par 113 71 64 nc nc nc nc nc 90 112 73 85 Crowdy Res 137 20 7 nc nc nc nc nc 250 95 nc 86 Colliford Res 102 23 52 nc nc nc nc nc 116 132 45 113 Lynher Est 116 77 34 21 22 38 23 8 169 168 313 158 Tamar Est 56 58 15 11 29 50 5 23 97 194 158 195

Although the months May to August are not covered by the inland NWC counts, there appears to be comparatively few Mallard in the county at this time and the overall total is unlikely to be significantly higher than that shown. Again, September was the main month with a total of 1417 compared with 1117 and 814 in the same month in 1988 and 1987 respectively.

PINTAIL - Anas acuta

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Apart from feral releases the species has bred only once in Cornwall - in 1978. There has been a substantial decrease in the number of birds visiting the county in recent years. This was again evident during 1989 with first winter congregations the smallest since 1978 and only three in spring. There was a widespread scatter in autumn but very few in the second winter. Regular reports in both winter periods: Lynher Est: noted until Jan 29th with max of 12 Jan 21st and from Sept 28th with max of 23 Dec 1st to 27th. Camel Est: up to four to Jan 24th. Four Dec 1st and one to the end of the year. Porth Res: single drakes Jan 3rd and Nov 6th. Loe Pool: two females Jan 15th and one Oct 10th. Marazion: two Apr 16th and Oct 11th. Elsewhere in the first half of the year the species was reported only from Stithians Res. where a max of six was noted Jan 10th, with five staying to Feb 19th. Regular autumn and second winter records: Hayle Est: up to two regular Sept 29th to Nov 23rd but three Dec 9th. Long Rock Pool: at least three different birds Oct 5th to Dec 3rd. Elsewhere one flew west at Porthgwarra Oct 1st, two flew west at Lands End Oct 5th, seven flew west at St Ives Oct 7th, a drake was at Croft Pascoe Pool Nov 6th and single females were at Upper Tamar Res. Nov 7th and Dec 6th, Hayle Kimbro Pool Nov 27th and Par Dec 6th/8th.

GARGANEY - Anas querquedula

Scarce passage migrant with numbers fluctuating from year to year. Has bred on at least six occasions including three successive years 1981/3. Skewjack: drake Apr 22nd JH. Marazion Marsh/Long Rock Pool: two drakes Apr 26th, then up to three drakes regular until May 13th EGe.DSJ.BP.CCB.JFR. et al. Bay: drake Apr 30th. RW. Par: two drakes May 3rd with one to 8th. SMC.MB. et al.

42 St Andrews Pool, Par: pair May 4th. RL. Maer Lake: drake May 6th, joined by a female May 8th and another drake May 9th. BTC.TJD.GPS. Stithians Res: six Jul 21st SMC.BC. The spring arrival was the best since 1984 and the six at Stithians the largest party since the same year. The county mainland total moves to c.592 since 1930. Birds have arrived in every month except January and a breakdown of arrival dates reveals the following; February - two, March - 218 (37%), April - 159 (27%), May - 52, June -11, July - 30, August - 83, September - 24, October - ten, November - one, December - two. Top sites are: Marazion - 236 (40%), Stithians - 55, Par - 37, Hayle Kimbro Pool - 36 and Tamar Lakes - 32.

BLUE-WINGED TEAL - Anas discors.

Rare vagrant. Lower Tamar Lake: female/immature Aug 31st. IK.RMRJ. Another Oct 10th to Nov 9th. SMC.JDB.RS. et al. Drift Res: eclipse drake Sept 11th to 13th. JFR.CCB.AHP.JH. et al. All accepted by BBRC. These three take the county mainland total to 21 - all since 1976. The second Tamar Lake bird is the latest ever in the county. Monthly breakdown; May - two, August - three, September - 13 (65%), October - three. Top sites are: Tamar Lakes - five, Stithians Res. - four and Marazion Marsh - three.

SHOVELER - Anas clypeata

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Numbers wintering in the county have declined by at least 60% since the 1970's. This reduction was again evident in 1989 with only four double - figure counts during the year. Spring passage was light ending with two at Hayle Est. Jun 11th. The first return birds were four at Stithians Jul 18th but there was very few anywhere until early November. Regular reports in both winter periods: Loe Pool: noted until Feb 5th with max of 12 Jan 15th. Two Apr 9th. One or two Sept 11th to 16th and from Nov 12th with max of 17 Dec 2nd. Maer Lake: noted until Apr 20th with max of 15 Jan 12th and from Nov 6th with max of six Nov 23rd. Hayle Est: three Jan 3rd. Two Jun 11th. Up to three Sept 10th to 16th, eight Nov 9th with lesser numbers to Nov 26th. Stithians Res: singles Jan 12th and Jan 31st to Feb 8th. Four Jul 18th with one to 23rd. Two Nov 26th. Marazion Marsh/Long Rock Pool: noted Jan 17th (12) to Apr 16th with max of 13 Feb 20th and from Oct 9th with max of nine Dec 30th. Par Beach Pool: noted Jan 19th to Mar 5th with max of seven Jan 19th. Three Dec 26th/27th. Upper Tamar Res: three January with one to Feb 11th. Singles Aug 18th to 27th and Oct 10th to 20th, five Oct 22nd and one Nov 7th. Elsewhere in the first winter period there was two at Truro Jan 1st, two at Devoran Jan 2nd to Mar 24th, one at Colliford Res. Jan 22nd and a drake at Caerhays Lake May 2nd. Elsewhere in the second half of the year there was five at Lynher Est. Nov 4th with two to Dec 1st, one at Crowan Res. Nov 6th, two at Bude Dec 5th and one near Lanivet Dec 8th/llth.

43 RED-CRESTED POCHARD - Netta rufina

Vagrant. Feral escape. Loe Pool: eclipse drake Jul 5th CCB.JFR. Drake (presumed different) Nov 7th to 12th. RLL.LML.SB. et al. Long Rock Pool: same bird Nov 15th to Dec 28th. BS.JW. et al. Because of the four month time lapse between the Loe Pool sightings it may be safe to assume that they were different birds and therefore the county mainland total moves to c.16. These are the first records for July and November. Peak months are September - four, December and January - three each.

Red-Crested Pochard Ren Hathway

POCHARD - Aythya ferina

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. May have bred at Crowdy Res. in 1977. Mild weather in both winter periods ensured that the number of birds visiting the county was well below average. First winter flocks were the smallest since 1980 and second winter flocks the smallest since 1974. Maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: 48 Jan 2nd. 83 Dec 6th. Colliford Res: 108 Jan 10th. 48 Nov 12th. Argal Res: 20 Jan 10th. Loe Pool: 60 Jan 27th. 59 Dec 12th. Par: 29 Jan 26th and Dec 30th. Tamar Est: 27 Oct 15th. Swanpool: 25 Nov 18th. In summer there was a female at Par throughout and at Loe Pool two Jun 11th and five Jul 12th.

Jan Feb Mar Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 228 138 32 27 64 144 165 Loe Pool 35 39 12 16 18 43 59 College/Argal Res. 20 8 1 2 5 9 Colliford Res. 108 62 1 - 3 48 28 228 in January compares with 335 in January 1988. A poo- r showing.

44 RING-NECKED DUCK - Aythya collaris

Vagrant. Loe Pool: the drake from 1988 remained until at least Jan 29th and presumably the same returned Jun 17th remaining to Nov 16th. DJB.JSG.RLL.JFR. et al. Drift Res: drake Jan 14th to Mar 30th. MS.PM. et al. Drake Dec 26th. CCB. Skewjack: the Drift bird Mar 27th. JH. Long Rock Pool: the Drift bird Apr 2nd to 11th and Jun 15th MRAB.DL.KN. et al. Drake Dec 27th/28th. Lower Tamar Lake: female Oct 20th. SMC.MB.ABR.JH. et al. Crowan Res: drake Dec 26th. DL. Difficult to evaluate these records but assuming that the Loe Pool and Drift Res. birds were different (note overlap in dates) and the end of year drake was the returning Loe Pool bird visiting divers sites, the only 'new' birds were the first winter Drift bird and the Lower Tamar Lake individual. It now seems customary for the West Cornwall birds to peregrinate from site to site. The county mainland total moves to c.30 - all since 1976. Most have arrived in January - 11 and October - nine. Top sites are Stithians - nine, Drift Res. - six and Tamar Est. - five. 1988 record Stithians Res: the October bird was still present Oct 29th. MRAB.

TUFTED DUCK - Aythya fuligula

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeds almost annually at Crowdy Res. but only rarely elsewhere. In the breeding season there was four at Loe Pool May 20th increasing to 12 Jun 12th and a large increase to 52 Jul 8th but there was no evidence of breeding. A female summered at Par and a pair were at Crowdy Res. throughout May. Other May records included three at Siblyback Res. on 9th and four drakes at Colliford Res. on 29th. First winter maxima were the lowest since 1984 but second winter flocks were about the average of recent years. Maximum numbers: Tamar Lakes: 41 Jan 2nd. 44 Dec 6th. Porth Res: 36 Jan 3rd. 33 Dec 1st. Loe Pool: 87 Jan 12th. 65 Feb 11th. 54 Sept 16th. 75 Nov 16th. Swanpool: 44 Jan 23rd. 56 Dec 27th. Siblyback: 28 Feb 6th to 11th. 35 December. Argal Res: 40 Feb 11th to Mar 11th. 62 December. Stithians Res: 35 Feb 27th. 40 Apr 1st. 15 Nov 16th. No more than 20 was noted at any other site.

Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - 1989.

Jan Feb Mar Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 197 289 137 73 84 150 228 Loe Pool 47 65 40 54 37 48 36 Argal Res. 26 40 40 18 47 62 Stithians Res. 9 25 17 4- 4 8 Siblyback Res. 14 26 2 2 3 - 35 Swanpool. 35 34 1 1-3 56 289 in February compares with 242 in February 1988. Bot- h are -below the average winter maxima of 389 for the period 1959-84.

SCAUP - Aythya marila

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. In another lean year for the species a maximum of thirteen was reported in the first

45 winter and eight in the second winter period. Loe Pool: two from 1988 increased to four Jan 16th and six Jan 28th. Up to four remained to Apr 23rd. One Dec 26th into 1990. Millbrook: female from 1988 to Mar 12th. Siblyback Res: female sporadically Jan 7th to Feb 3rd. Drift Res: female Jan 10th to Feb 18th, another Jan 29th to Feb 12th and a drake Feb 8th to 12th. Crowdy Res: female Jan 14th. Colliford Res: female Jan 27th/28th. Lynher Est: female Dec 22nd, five (four drakes) Dec 30th but only one drake Dec 31st. Long Rock Pool: two females Dec 22nd. Observers are reminded of the need for extreme caution in identifying this species with particular reference to head and bill shape and pattern. Distant white-faced Tufted Duck can prove a pitfall for the unwary.

EIDER - Somateria mollissima

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. A few summer. Annual since 1952, prior to which birds were reported in only seven years 1931 — 1951 and a mere eight records pre 1900. Birds were observed at two localities throughout the year, at an additional ten sites in the first winter and thirteen in the second winter period. Regular reports: St Austell Bay: two first noted 11th Nov 1988 increased to 24 Nov 25th with 14 remaining to Apr 23rd. Birds gradually dispersed until seven remained Sept 19th and the last to Nov 18th. Mounts Bay: 12 from 1988 stayed until September. Subsequently birds drifted away and only a single drake overwintered into 1990. Carrick Roads: two Jan 4th increased to 13 Jan 26th with ten to Feb 16th. One Dec 20th. Falmouth Bay: seven Feb 12th. Two Dec 15th. Loe Bar: one or two Jan 15th to Feb 3rd. Up to three Nov 13th into 1990. Elsewhere in the first winter there was two at Camel Est. Jan 7th to 15th, one at Newquay Jan 15th to Mar 24th, one at Coverack Feb 5th, three at Gerrans Bay Feb 19th, four at Godrevy Feb 19th and one or two at Maenporth Mar 11th to 23rd. In spring three flew west at Killigerran May 2nd and three at Godrevy May 6th. The first in autumn was off Maenporth Oct 17th - the only report for the month. Five flew past Pentire Nov 5th, there was one at Looe Nov 18th to Dec 9th, two at Mullion Nov 21st, one at Newquay Nov 28th into 1990, two at Bude Nov 30th but three there Dec 21st into 1990, singles at Bay Dec 4th and 17th, one at Godrevy Dec 6th into 1990, three at Helford Est. Dec 30th into 1990 and one at St Johns Lake Dec 31st.

LONG-TAILED DUCK - Clangula hyemalis

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Annual since 1962. The Mounts Bay bird of December 1988 did not overwinter but three other individuals did. Fifteen additional birds were reported during the first winter and spring but only four in the second half of the year. Gerrans Bay: the 1988 bird remained into February. PAM Upper Tamar Res: the 1988 bird remained to May 5th. FAD.IK.SK. et al. Poldhu: the 1988 bird remained to Jan 20th. EGe.ARP. Millendreath: two females Jan 7th. SCM. Whitsand Bay: two (one drake) Feb 12th. RWG. St Austell Bay: one Feb 12th. RL. Bude: one flew north Feb 26th. IK. Loe Pool: singles Mar 17th to May 1st JSG and Oct 14th to 26th. JSG.NA. et al.

46 Helford Est: three Apr 8th. TRE. Lynher Est: drake Apr 28th SCM but seven (three drakes) Apr 30th. RWG. St Johns Lake: drake May 3rd. RWG. Lizard: drake flew west Oct 29th SJM. St Ives: one Dec 1st to 12th. PG.CCB.PE. Godrevy: one Dec 4th to 10th (possible the same as St Ives bird). PAR. The 19 new birds take the county mainland total since 1930 to c.343. Birds have arrived in every month with peaks of 90 in November, 76 in December and 51 in January. The seven at Lynher Est. is the third largest ever flock in the county. Top sites are Sennen - 73, Mounts Bay - 56, Loe Pool - 21, St Ives Bay - 20 and Hayle Est. - 15.

COMMON SCOTER - Melanitta nigra

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A few summer. Although first winter flocks were small there was a fair passage in late July and several large congregations in the second winter period. Regular counts and maximum numbers: Porthleven/Loe Bar: noted until Jun 17th with max of 30 Jan 2nd and sporadically from Jul 15th to Nov 26th with max of 17 Nov 19th. St Austell Bay: noted in every month with max of 45 Jan 7th to 16th, 70 Jun 18th and 125 Dec 12th. Gerrans Bay: noted until Mar 11th with max of 32 Jan 8th. Nine Dec 2nd. Mounts Bay: noted until Apr 22nd with max of 30 Jan 7th and from Nov 28th with max of 60 that date. Veryan Bay: noted until May 2nd with max of 47 Jan 29th. Other first winter max included 20 at Mevagissey Mar 11th, whilst in spring there was 25 off Bude May 6th and 28 at Rame Head May 20th. Up to 20 were located at another twelve sites. In autumn and the second winter period there were regular reports from: Porthgwarra: 131 flew west between Apr 18th and Sept 22nd with max of 35 Jul 20th. Lizard: 33 west and three east between Jul 30th and Oct 20th. Pendeen: 76 west between Jul 31st and Oct 14th with max of 64 first date. St Ives: 181 west between Aug 8th and Nov 5th with max of 27 Aug 27th and 73 Nov 4th. Trevose Head: 78 west between Oct 24th and Nov 18th with max of 42 Nov 16th. Other maxima included 82 west off Godrevy Nov 17th and 100 in Whitsand Bay Dec 15th. (The largest party here since 1969). Up to twenty were observed at another twelve sites.

VELVET SCOTER - Melanitta fusca

Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Falmouth Bay: four (one drake) Jan 8th SB.MS. Loe Bar: one Nov 19th. SB. Whitsand Bay: two Dec 9th to 15th. RWG.SCM.EG. These seven take the county mainland total to c.343 since 1930. Birds have arrived in every month except June and July with peaks of 94 in November, 59 in December, 44 in January and 73 in February. Top sites are St Ives Bay - 77, Falmouth Bay/Carrick Roads - 41, Mounts Bay - 35, Helford Est. and Rumps Point - 24, Whitsand Bay - 23 and Porthleven/Loe Bar - 21.

GOLDENEYE - Bucephela clangula

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. In the poorest year for this species since 1971 the only double-figure flock in either winter period was at Carrick Roads. Even in this traditional area numbers are at

47 least § down on peak counts in the 1970's. The last in spring was a drake at Stithians Res. May 7th and the first return birds were two at the same locality Nov 1st. Regular reports in both winter periods: Tamar Lakes: noted to Feb 11th with max of seven Feb 2nd. Two Nov/Dec. Carrick Roads: noted to Mar 22nd with max of 14 Feb 17th and from Nov 25th with max of 14 that date. Stithians Res: noted to May 7th with max of 12 Jan 29th. Two Nov 1st to 26th Loe Pool: up to three to Feb 10th, four Apr 7th and noted from Nov 30th with max of six Dec 30th. Hayle Est: noted to Mar 25th with max of seven Mar 5th. Up to four from Nov 17th. Fowey Est: noted until Mar 26th with max of five Jan 20th. Two Dec 11th into 1990. Camel Est: noted until Mar 15th with max of eight Mar 14th and from Nov 18th with max of seven Dec 4th. Colliford Res: noted until Apr 25th with max of seven Jan 15th. Three Dec 17th. Apart from four flying west off Godrevy Nov 17th, no other site attracted more than three in either winter period.

SMEW - Mergus albellus

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. No acceptable records were received for the first time since 1973. The county mainland total stands at c.275 since 1930.

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER - Mergus serrator

Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. Rare inland. Approximately 60% of the annual county total is recorded at Carrick Roads where birds gather to roost off Turnaware Point and Loe Beach. At dawn they disperse to feed throughout the Fal Est. complex. Very few overwintered from 1988 but several arrived in late January and early February. Spring passage was poor but there was a late pair at Camel Est. May 10th. The first in autumn flew west off Pendeen Oct 14th but there was no other report until Nov 4th. Subsequently there was a steady autumn passage and good wintering flocks at Carrick Roads and Lynher Est./St Johns Lake. Regular reports in both winter periods: Carrick Roads: noted until Apr 8th and from Nov 25th with max of 58 Feb 16th and 63 Dec 26th. St Johns Lake: noted until Apr 9th and from Nov 4th with max of six January to Mar 11th and 15 Dec 17th. Lynher Est: none in first winter but 11 Dec 19th. Camel Est: three Jan 20th to Mar 15th. Five Nov 18th with one or two to the end of the year. Hayle Est: five Nov 17th reducing to one into 1990. Elsewhere seven flew west and three flew east off Trevose Head Nov 16th and five flew north off Nov 20th, otherwise there was no more than three at any locality.

GOOSANDER - Mergus merganser

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. The species has become increasingly common in Cornwall in recent years and is a potential breeding species, particularly since a few pairs now nest annually in Devon. There was a small increase in the number of birds present at the end of 1988, with high totals on the moorland reservoirs, although the same mobile birds may have been involved.

48 Last in spring were eleven at Crowdy Res. Apr 2nd and the first returning birds were two at Hayle Est. Nov 28th. Siblyback Res: Ten from 1988 increased gradually to 14 Jan 15th but then decreased until the last Feb 26th. AMJ.SCM.RDP. et al. Crovvdy Res: nine Jan 2nd but only two Jan 14th/16th. 19 Feb 12th with up to eleven to Apr 2nd. SMC.BTC.ACS. et al. Single drake Dec 31st. AMJD. Dozmary Pool: four Jan 29th, two Feb 25th. AMJD.RL. Stithians Res: one Jan 10th to Mar 7th. CCB.EJC.JRS. et al. Camel Est: one Mar 2nd. DIJ. : pair Mar 8th. DL. Tamar Est: one Mar 27th BTC. Hayle Est: two Nov 28th with one to Dec 30th. PG.RFH.SCW. et al. Bude: one Dec 4th/5th. IK.SK. Drift Res: one Dec 9th into 1990. MS.SGR. et al. (Brownheads outnumbered drakes by about 4:1). Records of wandering birds are difficult to assess but perhaps as many as 33 birds were involved in this years' sightings taking the county mainland total to c.699. Birds have arrived in every month from October to May with peaks of 344 (49%) in January and 140 in December. Top sites are Crowdy Res - 80, Camel Est - 61, Siblyback Res - 55, Drift Res - 46, Hayle Est - 44, Stithians Res and Dozmary Pool - 42 and Loe Pool - 40. The 19 together at Crowdy Res. this year is the second largest flock ever in the county, exceeded only by 22 at Argal Res. in January 1979.

RUDDY DUCK - Oxyura jamaicensis

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Annual since 1977. Loe Pool: female Jan 2nd to 22nd. EJC.SGR.GRW.MW. et al. Upper Tamar Res: juvenile Oct 9th IK. Another poor year. These two take the county mainland total to c.85. Monthly breakdown: January - 35, February - 17, March - two, July - one, September - three, October - nine, November - 17 and December - one. Top sites are Stithians Res. - 22, Loe Pool 19 and Drift Res. - seven.

HONEY BUZZARD - Pernis apivorus

Rare passage migrant. Breeding has occurred annually in Devon since 1979 and could conceivably occur in Cornwall in the future: Near Bodmin: one May 21st GJC. : one May 29th FHCK. Lands End: one July 3rd DSF. Nanquidno: singles Aug 15th JFR and Sept 24th AH DAC. : one Oct 3rd and 13th EGG.AMH.GS.DS. et al. Cot Valley: one Oct 9th EGG.GGG. Trevail: one Oct 15th EGG.GGG. St Levan: one Oct 17th JN.BS. Other reports were received but lacked fully conclusive detail. The September/October records might well refer to the same wandering individual but assuming that they were all different these nine take the county mainland total to c.65 (all but nine since 1972). 1987 record Rame Head: a pale phase bird flew north east April 14th GJC (the third earliest ever). Birds have occurred in every month from April to December but peak months are May - 12, September - 14 and October - 17. Top sites are Hayle - eight, Porthgwarra and Rame Head - six and Perranporth - five.

49 BLACK KITE - Milvus migrans.

Rare vagrant. Porthgwarra: one May 20th to 29th CCB.DSF.MS. et al. Skewjack: one May 22nd DSF. Lizard: one May 24th BC. Penzance: one May 31st MS. Hayle Kimbro: one June 7th JMW. Owing to the distinctive lack of a primary feather in each wing it is possible to state that the same bird was involved in all sightings. It occasionally proved very difficult to locate at Porthgwarra and was obviously prone to wandering across Mounts Bay. The county mainland total moves to four - previous records in 1983 (two) and 1975. Three of the four have occurred at Porthgwarra. The species has been increasing in N.W. Europe in recent years resulting in more frequent sightings in the UK. It is anticipated that this trend will continue. Accepted by BBRC.

RED KITE - Milvus milvus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. There are various ancient claims of breeding in Cornwall but none is considered fully authenticated. Rumours have persisted in recent years of birds summering in apparently suitable habitat and the possibility of breeding in the future should not be overlooked. Siblyback: the bird from 1988 remained througout the year and into 1990. A second bird was noted May 21st PHA.CPG.et al. Soap Cove, Lizard: one flew north Jan 7th EGe. : one Jan 25th RJL. Temple Tor: one June 30th AMJD.

Red Kites at Lands End Ren Hathway

50 : one July 8th SBroad per SCM. Kennack Sands: one flew north July 10th SN. : one Sept 6th VB. Porthgwarra: one Sept 29th CJM, two Sept 30th DJB.ICW. Lands End: two (the Porthgwarra birds) Sept 30th RA.DSF.RFH.et al. Hayle Estuary: one Oct 3rd EGG.GGG. Nanquidno: one Oct 7th DAC. Sennen: one Oct 8th CCB. : one Oct 10th JWJ. Widemouth Bay: one Oct 14th FEL. Winnards Perch: one flew south Nov 30th SMC. Portscatho: one Dec 3rd into 1990 GCJ.LSP. Assuming that all were different, except the west Cornwall records September 29th to October 8th, the total of at least thirteen new birds is a record and takes the county mainland total to c.71 since 1952, prior to which there is very little information. Birds have arrived in every month of the year and apart from October - 19 and March - ten, there is no noticeable pattern. Top sites are Porthgwarra - eight and Nanquidno, Siblyback and Lizard - all three.

MARSH HARRIER - Circus aeruginosus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Marazion: male March 28th CCB.JFR. Female May 17th JFR. Gwithian: female in off the sea May 20th BKM.RW. Holmans Moor, Zennor: female May 28th SGR. Nanquidno: immature Sept 24th MDJ. Lands End: one flew south west Sept 25th ICW. Crowdy Reservoir: female/immature Dec 29th into 1990. WGL. Assuming that all were different these seven take the county mainland total to c.77 since 1930. Birds have arrived in every month except January with peaks of 18 in May, 15 in September and 12 in October.

Top sites are Marazion - 17, Porthgwarra - seven and Skewjack - five.

HEN HARRIER - Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. There are four main wintering areas in the County. On the mid-Cornwall and West Penwith areas the roost sites are well known and documented, but the Lizard peninsula and Bodmin Moor roost sites have received less attention.

Bodmin Moor: None in either winter period, but possibly due to a lack of observation rather than birds.

Mid-Cornwall Moors: The three males and a ringtail overwintered from 1988 and were joined by a fourth male Jan 15th to 21st. Subsequently however only three birds remained to Mar 25th and two to March 28th. The first return bird was a ringtail Oct 22nd followed by a male Oct 25th. There was a gradual build up through Nov to a peak of five males and three females from Dec 2nd into 1990 - the most here since 1982. Single ringtails at St Columb Nov 16th and Goss Moor Nov 18th were presumably associated with this roost.

1987: Seven (four males) Jan 2nd and six (four males) Mar 16th at the roost.

West Penwith Moors

A single ringtail overwintered from 1988 and was presumably the bird involved in a total of eight sightings in the Drift Reservoir/Zennor/St Just area up to Mar 10th. A male was noted Mar 19th near St Just and a migrant male was noted at Trevail and Trendrine, Zennor May 6th. An early ringtail was noted at Porthgwarra Sept 27th and Lands End the following day, whilst another was at Porthgwarra and Kenidjack Oct 10th. The same or another was observed at Zennor Oct 12th and Boswednack Oct 21st and a male was at Zennor Oct 10th and Pendeen Oct 14th. In November there were ringtails at on 19th and Boswednack on 26th. There was also a male at Madron Dec 10th.

Lizard peninsula: The only record for the year was of a ringtail Mar 26th.

Elsewhere in the first winter there were single ringtails at Sandymouth Jan 17th and Jan 27th and a male at Walmsley Santuary Jan 30th. In autumn and the second winter there were single ringtails at Upper Tamar Reservoir Nov 7th and Falmouth Estuary Dec 7th and a male at Landulph Dec 30th.

MONTAGU'S HARRIER - Circus pygargus

Rare passage migrant. Has bred, but not since 1975. A small recent increase in UK breeding population may augur well for the future locally. Porthgwarra: immature male May 24th JFR.SGR. A typical date.

1987

Retallack: the Harrier sp. of April 27th was this species.

GOSHAWK - Accipiter gentilis Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. May breed in very low numbers. Near : one Jan 13th GJC. Mynance: one Aug 29th SJM. Cot Valley: one Aug 29th AMH. St Loy: juvenile female Oct 12th AMH. Other reports received lacked conclusive detail. These four take the county mainland total to c.53. Peak months are October - nine, September - eight and April - seven.

Top sites are Porthgwarra with ten and Crowdy/Davidstow Airfield with four.

SPARROWHAWK - Accipiter nisus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. There was another small increase in the number of sightings this year, with birds reported from 74 different localities, including 33 in the breeding season. Records were received for all parts of the county but most in the Penwith district concerned autumn migrants. Many observers reported a stable population but LSP commented that it was less frequent at St Just in Roseland. The diversity of the species prey was well illustrated this year. A Woodpigeon was taken at Camel Estuary Jan 8th, a Swallow was taken on the wing at Fletcherbridge June 30th, a Blue Tit was taken at Stithians July 27th and a Wheater was taken there Oct 24th. BUZZARD - Buteo buteo

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. All reports received indicate a stable population with observations from 73 areas including breeding season records from the vast majority. RL recorded 460 bird

52 days during the year and several large gatherings were noted. Tregathenan: nine Mar 27th. Canworthy Water: 12 Aug 29th, 27 late Sept ASharp.EJA. Helford: eight Sept 23rd. Colliford Reservoir: seven Oct 15th. St Mabyn: 31 Nov 12th AL. Constantine: 16 Nov 19th. RL. The St Mabyn and Canworthy Water gatherings are believed to be the largest ever in the county. One carrying a grass snake at Trethurgy Apr 3rd was of interest, as was one in the Upper Fowey Valley/Siblyback Reservoir areas which bore a superficial resemblance plumage-wise, to an Osprey.

OSI'REY - Pandion haliaetus

Scarce passage migrant. Camel Est: two Sept 3rd with one to 6th HM. Other reports received were not substantiated by description. The worst year since 1972. The county mainland total moves to c.136 since 1930. Birds have been noted in every month from March to November with peaks of 18 in April and 21 in May in spring and 35 in August and 40 in September in autumn. Top sites are Camel Estuary - 29, Fal Estuary - 15 and Tamar Estuary - 11.

KESTREL - Falco tinnunculus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The comment in the 1988 Report that the species appeared to have decreased quite markedly in recent years induced a similar response from PMcC, but all other observers considered that status was maintained. Records were received from 66 named sites during the year, (compared with a mere 45 in 1988), including 23 inland (compared with only seven in 1988). The species was particularly widespread during the autumn months from August to September indicative of a successful breeding season and resultant autumn dispersal. The largest parties seen included nine at Rame Head Apr 9th, ten at Trevose Aug 1st and five at Lizard Sept 23rd and Trevose Head Sept 25th. A downy juvenile bird found in a nest hole in a felled tree on December 4th was thought to be of this species. M.Searle.

RED-FOOTED FALCON - Falco vespertinus

Rare vagrant. Trevose Head: sub-adult male flew south May 20th and was later re-located at St Merryn Fish Ponds. PAM.LW. Tregardock, Dalabole: male May 27th to 29th GS and presumed same June 27th TJD. Croft Pascoe: female June 4th/5th RW.RLL.DSF. All accepted by BBRC. The ninth to eleventh county mainland records. The first time that more than one has arrived in a year, but these three were not unexpected in view of many others throughout the UK this spring. Monthly breakdown: May - five, June - two, September - one, October - one, November - two.

MERLIN - Falco columbarius

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred at Perranporth in 1954. Only five singles had been noted in December 1988 but in the first winter period this year a total of at least 19 birds were observed (14 in January and five 'new' birds in February). 53 Most reports derived from the mid, east and north of the county, but in the west singles were noted at , Loe Pool, Reskajeage, Marazion, Falmouth and Chybucca. All reports were of single birds except two at Tregonetha which were noted going to roost regularly from Jan 21st to Mar 25th. Spring passage consisted of twelve birds between Mar 13th, at Tamar Estuary, and June 3rd at Loe Pool and Near Kynance. Two different birds were noted at Loe Pool and also at Marazion and near Kynance but all other reports were of singles. Autumn passage commenced with one at Lizard Sept 12th followed by singles at Hayle Estuary on 16th and Porthgwarra and Tamar Lake on 17th. A total of c.48 birds was reported from 32 sites - the second best autumn passage of the last twenty years. As always most reports concerned single bird/single day sightings but there were more regular observations as follows: Lizard: Sept 12th to Nov 15th. Singles on many dates but three Nov 18th. Hayle Estuary: singles Sept 16th, Oct 15th and Nov 20th. Porthgwarra: noted on eleven dates Sept 17th to Nov 1st, all singles except two Oct 17th. St Just: singles Sept 30th and Oct 14th but two Nov 14th. Gwithian: singles Oct 1st, Nov 7th and Nov 25th/27th. Trevail: singles Oct 8th, 16th and 31st. Trevose Head: one Oct 10th, two Oct 25th into Nov. Nanquidno: singles Oct 12th and 23rd and Nov 1st. St Levan: singles noted on five occasions Oct 13th to Nov 1st. Porth Joke: two Oct 13th and one Oct 14th. Gurnards Head: one Nov 13th but two Nov 14th. The remainder of the birds reported were widely scattered throughout the county. Thirteen birds were reported in December, the best end of year total since 1978. Two were at Goonhilly but only singles elsewhere.

Merlin Ashley Fisher HOBBY - Falco subbuteo

Scarce passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. Breeding was not suspected at any site this year, but the total of c.38 passage birds was easily the highest ever (previous best years - 1988, 1986 and 1982 with 24 each). 54 Penlee point: one May 5th SGC. : one May 5th ARP. Landulph: one May 7th NJC. Respryn: one May 7th RL. Goonhilly/Croft Pascoe/Hayle Kimbro: two May 9th BC. Five June 2nd, four June 4th then two or three regular to 12th and one to July 14th. Also an adult Aug 3rd. RB.BC.RLL.LML.SJM. et al. Trevose Head: first summer May 20th, adult May 21st PAM.LW.SMC. et al. Colliford Reservoir: one May 21st MPF. Luckett: one May 21st BTC. Porthgwarra: singles May 22nd, June 1st and Sept 12th JRS.CCB.DSF.PTS. Nanquidno: adult May 28th ICW. : one June 1st JFR. Skewjack: singles June 4th DSF and Oct 14th AMH. Stithians Reservoir: singles June 11th BKM and Aug 28th JFR. Kynance: one June 12th JMW. , Launceston: one July 13th AMJD. Tolverne, Philleigh: adult July 14th JD. Rame Head: juvenile Aug 22nd DRC. Drift Reservoir: singles Aug 27th PHA and Sept 18th CCB. Towednack: one Sept 3rd MJR. Sennen: one Sept 10th CCB. Tamar Lake: one Sept 10th FAD.FHCK. , Zennor: one Sept 17th EGG.GGG. St Ives: immature Oct 4th ICW. Trevail: one Oct 8th AMH. St Loy: one Oct 9th AMH. The county mainland total since 1930 moves to c.278. Monthly breakdown: April - 23, May - 75, June - 45, July - 26, August - 28, September - 58, October - 23. Top sites are Porthgwarra/St Leven - 36, Goonhilly/Croft Pascoe - 18, Lizard - 14, Marazion - 12 and Stithians - 11. (95 of the total have appeared on the Lands End peninsula and 58 on The Lizard peninsula.

PEREGRINE FALCON - Falco pereginus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Birds were reported from 102 localities during the year The sole inland breeding pair were successful this year rearing one young and coverage of other sites was more complete than normal. Please continue to submit all breeding information which will be treated with the utmost discretion. Kills included Grey Plover, Sanderling, Redshank and Starling. Most unusual however was one carrying a Magpie at St Columb April 20th.

CHUKAR - Alectoris chukar

Feral release. Escape. : one Nov 4th MS. The third county mainland record. Observers should be particularly wary when confronted with a red-legged Partridge. The present species is now being used as quarry by shooting enthusiasts in Cornwall, in addition to Red-legged Partridge and hybrids between the two. An excellent short article by AHJH on the identification of these species appears in 'Birds in Cornwall 1987 pages 125 - 127'.

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE - Alectoris rufa

Hundreds if not thousands of hand-reared birds have been released in various parts of the county over the last fifteen years. Particularly large numbers have been released in mid-Cornwall but very few remain. The reason for the species failure to

55 colonise is not fully understood but may be linked to its less aerial life-style than Grey Partridge. It is thought that the heavy soils of Cornwall clog the feet of the Red-legged Partridge rendering it more vulnerable to predators. Devoran: pair Jan 5th JHWW. : singles Jan 24th and June 20th RJL. : pair May 8th BKM. : one May 16th PAM. Sithney: singles July 19th and 23rd. JWJ. Caerhays: three Sept 10th RL (Chukar not eliminated). Rialton, St Columb Minor: eleven Oct 17th PJD. PJD also saw rearing pens at four sites near Colan Nov 9th and knew of Red-legs being reared at , near Newquay. With the exception of Leedstown (1986) none of these sites has been previously visited by the species.

1987 St Lawrence, Bodmin: one Aug 3rd GJC. Colliford: six Sept 27th GJC.

GREY PARTRIDGE - Perdix perdix

Declining resident. Breeds. After last years rock-bottom performance, there was a slight improvement in 1989. Birds were reported from 26 sites during the year and breeding was proved at three. The number of double-figure coveys in autumn suggested that breeding was more successful and covey size was the highest since 1983. Fewer reported from the Caradon district but they included 30 at Rame Head August 26th - the largest covey in the county since 1983, and twelve at September 13th. In the south of the county pairs were noted at , Nare Head and , and singles at Veryan and Gerrans. Ten were seen at but it is obvious that the species is very thinly distributed between Looe and Lizard Point. It is equally scarce on the Lizard peninsula where birds were seen only at Loe Pool and Kynance. Once again none was noted on the Lands End peninsula. Birds were found at ten sites in the species stronghold along the north coast. The largest coveys were 14 at Camel Estuary June 20th, 16 at Oct 15th, 26 at Trevose Head Nov 1st and nine at Pentire Nov 1st. Other notable records included 12 at Upper Tamar Reservoir Oct 20th and an adult with juveniles at July 9th.

QUAIL - Coturnix coturnix

Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor. Occasionally breeds. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Has overwintered. Annual since 1975. 1989 proved to be possibly the best ever Quail year in the county and indeed the UK, with hundreds penetrating as far north as Scotland. It was certainly the best since at least 1930 with a minimum of 58 birds in the county (more than three times the previous highest total) and possibly hundreds more. There were reports from many areas where the species has not apparently been observed or heard previously. Although breeding was probable at several sites and there was a reference to breeding by several pairs at Lizard, no conclusive evidence has been received. Lands End: two May 15th, one to 25th DSF. Kelsey Head: one May 16th PAM. Caerthillian: two May 17th with one to 22nd BC.ARP. Porthgwarra: one May 18th but up to four regular during the next two weeks. CCB.JFR.JMW. Lizard: one May 22nd, but then up to 18 during the summer. Several pairs are thought to have bred RB.SP. et al. Rumford: one May 25th SMC. Lanivet: two May 25th to 28th DTC.

56 Kynance area: two May 26th BC. St Eval: one May 31st SMC. : one May 31st SMC. : one June 2nd and July 5th JH. Lansallos: one June 4th PHA. Trispen: one June 10th to 14th and July 28th RDP. Viverdon Downs: one June 7th to 18th but two or three June 10th AHJH.BTC.EG. : one June 10th RDP. St Agnes: two June 13th PTS. : two June 15th PTS. Winnards Perch: one mid-June MB. Magor, : one mid-June RDP. Rame Head: one June 22nd and another Sept 17th (surprisingly the only autumn record). DRC.RWF. Porthleven: one June 17th to 20th JSG. Queener Point: one June 22nd SCM.DR. Trevose Head: one June 24th PAM. Crowan: one June 25th CNT. Road: one June 27th GHT. Boscastle: one June 28th GHT. Launceston: one June 29th AMJD Kerbrook Cross, Callington: one July 5th DS. Scadghill, Bude: one July 6th TJD. , : one July 14th SMC. St Mawgan: one July 17th SMC. The county mainland total moves to c.219 ( + c.63 young) since 1930. Monthly breakdown: January - one, March - one, April - three, May - 58, June - 88 (40%), July - 35, August - 22, September - seven, October - two, November - two. Most frequented sites since 1930 (with number of years in which noted): Camel Estuary - 16, East and Porthgwarra - nine and Winnards Perch - seven.

PHEASANT - Phasianus colchicus

Feral release. Resident. Breeds. Thousands of birds are released annually for shooting and feral breeding populations are maintained at a high level. There were no reports from The Lizard district this year but on the Lands End peninsula a pair bred at Boswednack. At Falmouth PMcC reports a possible decline, but at Trelissick JD described it as common. This is certainly the case east of Truro where shooting syndicates appear to be more prevalent. The largest numbers observed were 140 at Caerhays Oct 10th, 60 at Oct 10th and 20 at Gribbin Head Oct 17th. A pure white bird was at Caerhays Oct 10th and a partial melanistic at Tolverne July 14th.

LADY AMHERST'S PHEASANT - Chrysolophus amherstiae

Mount Edgcumbe Wood: male April 20th PRS.

The second county mainland record, but like the first, what are its origins?

WATER RAIL - Rallus aquaticus

Rare resident. Breeds in very low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was proved near where an adult accompanied by two young was noted July 15th JMR. Adult birds were seen at Marazion and Gunwalloe throughout the summer and breeding probably occurred undetected. 57 Up to three were noted at Perranporth during April and May and breeding was possible. Wintering birds were again relatively scarce, although slightly more numerous in the second winter period. Very few obvious spring migrants were noted with the last at Swanpool Apr 18th. The first in autumn was a single at Par Aug 27th and two at Lower Tamar Lake the same day. Most autumn migrants passed through in mid-October. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Swanpool: up to three Jan 1st to Apr 18th. Newton Moor, Troon: up to four Jan 1st to Mar 7th. Bude Marsh: seven Jan 1st to 29th, three to Feb 26th. Four Nov 11th, eight Dec 15th. Maer Lake: up to three Jan 2nd to Mar 6th, one or two Oct 27th to Dec 7th. Lower Tamar Lake: up to three Aug 27th to Nov 7th. Par: one or two Aug 27th to 1990 but ten Oct 11th. Porthgwarra: two Sept 12th. Another two Oct 12th. Gwithian: up to three Sept 25th to Dec 1st. : seven Dec 30th. All other reports concerned one or two birds.

1987 record Gunwalloe: as previously suspected, breeding did occur. A juvenile was seen by GJC July 2nd.

SPOTTED CRAKE - Porzana porzana

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Very rare winter visitor. Bred in 1860,1862 and 1874! Lower Tamar Lake: two Aug 27th/28th RMRJ.TJD.EG one Oct 17th/18th IK.SK.DJB.DCB. Lizard: juvenile Sept 5th IG. Porthgwarra: one Oct 16th JFR. These five take the county mainland total since 1930 to c.79. Apart from winter records the October records at Lower Tamar Lake and Porthgwarra are the second and third latest ever, respectively. Birds have arrived in every month except January, June and December with peaks of 34 (43%) in September and 27 (34%) in August. Top sites are Marazion - 39 (50%), Sennen - seven and Porthgwarra and Tamar Lakes - three apiece.

CORNCRAKE - Crex crex

Rare passage migrant. Formerly bred and has overwintered. Hearsay reports only of birds apparently established in two areas of the county, one in the Roseland district and the other in .

MOORHEN - Gallinula chloropus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. With the loss of suitable habitat in recent years there appears to have been a substantial reduction in breeding numbers. Despite comments from RWG,DC and BP that suggested an improvement this year, there was a decrease in breeding records to a mere nine localities. The general lowering of water levels through the long dry summer will have proved a serious inconvenience to this species. Maximum numbers: Maer Lake: 24 Jan 20th. Porth Reservoir: 17 Jan 3rd. Clowance Pond: 47 Jan 10th.

58 Pendarves: 17 Jan 10th. Loe Pool: 28 Jan 12th. Caerhays Lake: 45 Jan 15th, 45 Oct 10th to Nov 27th. Drift Reservoir: 31 Jan 17th. Maenporth: 20 Feb 4th. Swanpool: 15 Feb 10th. : 12 Feb 26th. Tresemple Pool: 15 Mar 4th. Helston Amenity Area: 45 Mar 21st, 32 Dec 4th.

COOT - Fulica atra

Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Rare on salt water. Breeds annually at Stithians Reservoir, but only occasionally at other sites. Breeding was reported from the following localities (with recent comparative information):

89 88 87 86 85 Sithians Reservoir pr 2 prs 8 prs 3 prs pr Marazion/Long Rock 2 prs 10 prs 7 prs 2 prs Swanpool 2 prs 2 prs Crowdy Reservoir pr pr P-r -1/2 prs p-r Loe Pool 7 prs 2 prs Tamar Lake - -3 prob -3/5 prs pr - - Maximum numbers Colliford Reservoir: 150 Jan 10th, 121 Dec 17th. Argal Reservoir: 59 Jan 10th, 92 Sept 16th. Swanpool: 44 Jan 10th, 51 Dec 17th. Loe Pool: 256 Jan 12th, 85 Dec 17th. Siblyback Reservoir: 96 Jan 20th, 35 Nov 30th. Marazion/Long Rock: 48 Dec 16th. The 256 at Loe Pool is the highest count here since 1979, whilst the Colliford counts are the highest ever at that locality.

Monthly NWC counts at the principal localities Jan Feb Mar Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 291 345 133 167 243 260 313 Loe Pool 23 95 18 92 51 62 85 Argal Res. 59 54 14 _ _ Swanpool 44 29 32 31- 41- 45 51 Colliford Res. 50 53 12 - 67 81 121 Siblyback Res. 65 68 15 - - 7 30 OYSTERCATCHER - Haematopus ostralegus

Resident. Breed. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding information was again very sparse but the following reports were received: Widemouth Bay to Morwenstow: at least six pairs JCP. Ranie Point to Port Isaac: possibly two nests ML. Rumps Point to Ranie Point: four nests ML. Maximum numbers: Bude: 130 Jan 12th, 98 Nov 10th. St Johns Lake: 155 Jan, 343 Sept, 325 Nov. Hayle Estuary: 120 Feb 5th, 91 July 31st. Camel Estuary: 370 Feb 12th, 548 Aug 19th, 247 Nov. Par: 101 Aug 17th. Ruan Lanihorne: 250 Aug 31st. Lynher Estuary: 174 Sept.

59 Godrevy: 118 Oct 20th. Inland there were singles at Stithians Reservoir March 6th and August 27th and Porth Reservoir August 1st.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 457 317 250 280 169 94 318 626 817 569 855 458 Hayle Estuary 95 44 19 39 21 12 51 78 67 80 35 40 Devoran 34 22 25 25 15 24 21 34 33 24 27 21 Tresillian 12 4 17 3 1 9 4 31 6 10 16 4 Truro 23 20 46 41 28 7 17 88 98 45 32 96 Camel Estuary nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc 247 124 Lynher Estuary 75 69 29 6 6 1 11 84 174 92 57 24 St Johns Lake 155 88 49 114 86 40 104 127 343 207 325 104 Tamar Estuary 32 24 43 50 12 - 6 50 15 44 57 47 September would probably have been the peak month had counts from the Camel Estuary commenced earlier.

BLACK-WINGED STILT - Himantopus himantopus

Rare vagrant. 1988 record Lanulph Marsh: juvenile Oct 25th IG.GD. Accepted by BBRC. This one takes the county mainland total to c.19. Monthly breakdown: April - seven, May - five, June - two, August - one, October - one and three not dated. Top sites are Marazion and Par - four, Hayle Estuary - three and Tamar Estuary and Tamar Lake - two.

AVOCET - Recurvirostra avosetta

Scarce winter visitor. Rare passage migrant. The species has wintered annually in the Tamar Estuary since 1947/48 but only occasionally elsewhere. Tamar Estuary: noted until Mar 28th (four) with monthly maxima of 90 Jan 15th and 99 in Feb. Noted from Oct 1st (one) with maxima of 128 Nov 24th and a new record count of 150 Dec 10th. Although the first winter maximum was slightly below that of 1987 and 1988, the overall trend continues to increase.

Five year average maxima show the following:

1st winter period 2nd winter period 1945 - 50 3 3 1951 - 55 15 15 1956 - 60 39 41 1961 - 65 52 52 1966 - 70 49 55 1971 - 75 59 54 1976 - 80 58 63 1981 - 85 82 83 1986 - 89 103 115

Elsewhere there were reports from: Mounts Bay: one May 20th MS. Falmouth Estuary: two Nov 25th to Dec 7th PAM.BC. Camel Estuary: one Dec 4th to 26th DLJ. et al. Lynher Estuary: three Dec 22nd, 17 Dec 26th and three Dec 27th. RWG.SCM.RS. et

60 al. (The 17 here is the largest flock ever at this site). A grand total of c.208 has been recorded away from the Tamar Estuary. Lynher Estuary with 77, Ruan Lanihorne - 33, St Johns Lake - 26 and Hayle Estuary and Camel Estuary with 18 each have proved the most attractive sites. The Mounts Bay bird is the second latest ever in spring (beaten only by one at Hayle in June 1983).

STONE CURLEW - Burhinus oedicnemus

Vagrant. Landulph Marsh: one May 4th/5th. NB.SBi.PE.PJB. et al. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 12th to 23rd and then sporadically to Nov 2nd. TJD.BTC.JH.ML. et al. The first since 1985. These two take the county mainland total to c.42 (involved in 12 occurrences) since 1930, prior to which the species was apparently much more regular.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius dubius

Uncommon passage migrant. Loe Pool: one Apr 25th SB. Gwithian: one Apr 25th to 29th PAR. Drift Reservoir: one Apr 27th JFR, two juveniles Aug 20th to Sept 3rd PHA. et al. Marazion Marsh: one May 9th CCB. Porth Reservoir: singles Aug 5th and Sept 12th PAM.SMC. Stithians Reservoir: one Aug 24th to 28th JH.IG. Hayle Estuary: adult Sept 3rd DSF. Crowdy Reservoir: juvenile Oct 3rd to 16th EG.DS. et al. Several other reports were received but lacked conclusive detail. Nevertheless, the total of twelve is still the second best ever - only 1980 with 16 birds proved superior. The county mainland total moves to c. 146 - all but one since 1956. Birds have been reported in all months from March to November (earliest 28th March 1987 and latest 27th November 1969) with peaks of 37 in April, 27 in May and 41 in August. Top sites are: Marazion/Mounts Bay - 29, Stithians Reservoir - also 29, Hayle Estuary/Copperhouse - 27 and Drift Reservoir - 12.

RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius hiaticula

Passage migrant. Formerly a scarce breeding species but this has not been confirmed since 1972. It is unlikely to breed again owing to vastly increased coastal disturbance even in the most remote districts. Exceptionally low numbers in the first winter period and only a very light spring passage from mid-April to mid-June with the last at Tamar Lake June 18th. The first return bird was at Par July 8th, but very few arrived until mid-August. Autumn migration peaked in mid/late September with only small flocks to the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Hayle Estuary: 89 Jan 18th, 99 Feb 3rd, 110 Sept 3rd, 70 Nov 6th. Camel Estuary: 80 Feb, 160 Aug 20th, 140 Sept 16th. Mounts Bay: 50 Aug 15th. Par: 56 Aug 19th. Falmouth Estuary: 47 Sept 9th. St Johns Lake: 47 Sept. Gwithian: 65 Sept 25th to Oct 3rd. The highest counts during December were 20 at Par and Camel Estuary. Inland there were reports from several grassland sites and all of the reservoirs in autumn

61 with maxima of 30 at Davidstow Sept 4th, 50 at Predannack Sept 17th/20th and 50 at Stithians Reservoir Sept 20th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 60 54 6 - 2 - - 33 128 21 75 69 Hayle Estuary 34 30 - - 1 - - 8 49 9 10 26 Looe Estuary 4 5 9 15 St Johns Lake 22 24 6 - - - - 25 47 7 34 17 KENTISH PLOVER - Charadrius alexandrinus

Rare passage migrant. Mounts Bay: male May 6th/7th MS.CCB.BKM. et al. 1986 record Par: male Aug 18th GJC. These two take the county mainland total to c.39. Monthly breakdown: March - three, April - seven, May 15 (39%), June - one, August - eight, September - five. (Extreme dates 11th March 1973 and 18th September 1948). Top sites are Marazion/Mounts Bay - 18 (46%), and Camel Estuary and Par with six apiece. A few earlier records are not now considered acceptable on the information available.

DOTTEREL - Charadrius morinellus

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Godrevy: one May 5th to 13th but three May 8th. PAR. et al. Trevose Head: one May 6th/7th. PAM.SMC.LW.RW. Lands End: immature Aug 28th RA.DSF.PH. Davidstow Airfield: one Oct 30th/31st. TJD.IK.SK. These six take the county mainland total to c. 182. Monthly breakdown: March - nine, April - 19, May - ten, August - 20, September - 83 (46%), October - 35, November - five, December - one. (Extreme dates 25th March 1987 and 27th December 1986). Top sites are Porthgwarra - 66 (36%), Lands End/St Just Airfield - 29, Davidstow Airfield - 26 and Lizard/Kynance - 16.

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis dominica

Vagrant. Formerly known as Lesser Golden Plover and considered conspecific with another distinctive race now re-named Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva). None of the latter species has been accepted for Cornwall, but birds at Stithians Reservoir in 1975 and Sennen in 1971 were thought to be, what was then, this race. Sthithians Reservoir: first winter Nov 6th SMC.MB.KWAP. Accepted by B.B.R.C. The county mainland total moves to c.38 - all since 1968. Monthly breakdown: April - one, August - two, September - 13 (36%), October - 17 (47%), November - five. Top sites are Davidstow Airfield and Stithians Reservoir - eleven each and St Just Airfield/Sennen - eight (but these totals include birds noted at more than one site).

GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis apricaria

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has never been proved in Cornwall although a few pairs still nest in Devon

62 and odd birds are seen in suitable habitat on Bodmin Moor from time to time. Birds were widespread in fair numbers during the first winter period, but generally less numerous at the end of the year. Spring passage was light with the last at Trevose Head May 4th. A single at Stithians July 5th was very early in autumn because the next was one at Davidstow Sept 3rd. Maximum numbers: Colliford Reservoir: 2000 Jan 1st, 1500 Dec 31st. Tamar Lake: 400 Jan 1st and Oct 22nd. Ruan Lanihorne: 300 Jan 14th, 700 Dec 18th. Camel Estuary: 600 Jan 20th, 800 Nov 12th. Stithians Reservoir: 500 Jan 27th, 1200 Nov 6th. Hayle Estuary: 2000 Jan 29th. Siblyback Reservoir: 475 Feb 1st. Davidstow Airfield: 2000 Feb 21st, 350 Oct 10th. Tamar Estuary: 1000 Mar 28th, 823 Oct 31st. St Eval: 365 Oct 15th. : 500 Oct 29th. Predannack: 370 Nov 11th. Stockadon: 450 Dec 21st.

GREY PLOVER - Pluvialis squatarola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. First winter flocks were about the average, but very few remained after mid- February. Spring passage was poor and ended with one at Hayle Estuary June 16th. The first return bird was at Par Aug 29th but the passage which followed was the leanest for many years. Second winter flocks were exceptionally small. Maximum numbers: Lynher Estuary: 56 Jan 19th. Camel Estuary: 104 Feb 1st, 25 Dec 1st. Hayle Estuary: 72 Feb 20th, 31 Nov 25th. St Johns Lake: 137 Mar, 88 Dec. Twenty were noted at Gerrans Bay Mar 4th, Godrevy Apr 18th and Ruan Lanihorne Nov 29th but there was never more than fifteen at any other site. Inland there were singles at Tamar Lake Sept 17th and Stithians Reservoir Sept 21st.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989. • Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 117 171 172 26 - 1 - - 2 1 63 130 Hayle Estuary 38 36 14 9 - 1 - - - 1 5 29 Restronguet 10 5 7 ------10 - - Camel Estuary nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc 16 12 St Johns Lake 111 112 137 16 30 88 Tamar Estuary 7 12 14 1

LAPWING - Vanellus vanellus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. At least one pair bred at Hayle Kimbro ARP.MS and several pairs were noted at Crowdy Reservoir May 16th. However, there was no information whatsoever for the remainder of Bodmin Moor. Several good flocks were reported for the first winter period, but like Golden Plover the vast majority were persuaded to leave in the mild weather of early spring. The last were two at Hayle May 28th, but autumn movement was already underway by June 15th when 30 were at Tamar Lake. It was a very poor autumn movement with end of year flocks smaller than normal. Maximum numbers:

63 Tamar Lake: 1000 Jan 1st. Penzance: 400 Jan 7th. Camel Estuary: 1364 Jan 8th. Ruan Lanihorne: 284 Jan 9th, 400 Dec 26th. Breage: 500 Jan 15th. Helston: 300 Jan 20th. Colliford Reservoir: 500 Jan 22nd. Hayle Estuary: 2000 Jan 29th, 785 Dec 23rd. Lynher Estuary: 390 Feb 8th. Davidstow Airfield: 2000 Feb 21st, 400 Oct 8th. : 700 Dec 19th.

KNOT - Calidris canutus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly occurred in much larger numbers, particularly at St Johns Lake. Overwintering birds from 1988 were few and far between and spring passage was restricted to c.30 birds between Mar 26th and May 9th. The first in autumn was at Marazion July 6th (equalling previous earliest ever) but there was no more until one at Hayle Aug 6th. It was a very poor passage involving 45/50 birds only. Few remained to the end of the year. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 25 overwintered increasing to 62 Mar 4th but only seven Apr 30th. Noted from Aug 19th with maxima of 14 Dec 17th. Lynher Estuary: 20 Jan 18th, 60 Jan 29th, three Sept 28th and 13 Nov 15th. Camel Estuary: noted to May 9th with maxima of six in Jan and from Aug 20th to Oct 31st with maxima of eight first date. Hayle Estuary: noted Mar 26th to May 2nd with maxima of six Mar 27th and Aug 6th to Oct 7th with maxima of six Sept 8th. Marazion: seven Apr 4th, three on 5th. Singles Aug 6th and Aug 30th, two Oct 12th and Nov 26th. Elsewhere in the first winter there was 25 at Devoran February 12th and one at Portscatho March 19th. Elsewhere in autumn and the second winter there was up to four at Fal. Estuary August 21st to September 1st with one there December 7th, four at Tamar Estuary August 27th, up to six at Par and one at Godrevy September 15th.

SANDERLING - Calidris alba

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Mounts Bay is undoubtedly the most important site for the species in Cornwall, but other localities which regularly attract parties of migrants include Hayle Estuary/Porthkidney Sands, Camel Estuary and Par Beach. In the first winter period the Mounts Bay flock was depleted but small numbers were at Hayle, Par and Camel Estuary. Spring passage was noted from Apr 25th to June 21st, but numbers were low. The first return bird was at Fal Estuary July 11th. It proved to be a surprisingly widespread passage with birds at twenty localities. Most moved through Aug 16th to 20th and Sept 3rd to 20th. Very few remained into October/November and December reports came only from traditional localities. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Mounts Bay: 30 Jan 28th, 63 Mar 15th, 22 July 17th, 82 Dec 9th. Camel Estuary: six Feb 1st, 13 June 3rd, 10 Sept. Par: three Jan/March, eight May 17th, four Aug 16th then one/two to end of year. Hayle Estuary: one Jan 27th, 18 May 28th, 48 Sept 12th, four Nov 17th. Bude: six May 5th to 7th. Gwithian: 11 July 28th. Godrevy: 25 Aug 2nd. Perranporth: 16 Aug 16th.

64 Portscatho: 11 Sept 3rd. Whitsand Bay: 26 Sept 3rd. No more than five at any other site. Inland there was a single at Colliford Reservoir Sept 3rd, nine at Davidstow Sept 14th with ten to Sept 22nd and two there Nov 16th.

SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER - Calidris semipalmatus

Ver> rare vagrant. Camel Estuary: juvenile Sept 1st to 4th GD. et al. The sixth county mainland record - all since 1978.

LITTLE STINT - Calidris minuta

Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Marazion: one Apr 16th MS. St Johns Lake: two Aug 14th JMR. Camel Estuary: one Aug 20th to Sept 3rd. SMC.DIJ. Stithians Reservoir: noted Aug 20th to Sept 21st, with maximum of three Sept 10th JH. et al. One Oct 12th FHH. Hayle Estuary: singles Aug 21st, Sept 12th to 23rd and Oct 27th but two Sept 13th to 15th. PG.JRS. et al. College Reservoir: noted Sept 10th (one) to Sept 28th (one) with maxima of three Sept 13th to 16th BC.JHWW. Tamar Lake: one Aug 28th to Sept 7th, two Sept 10th. FAD.RMRJ.SK. et al. Par: one Aug 31st RL.GRW.MW. Tamar Estuary: one Sept 2nd JMC. Drift Reservoir: one Sept 3rd GRW.MW.THS. Skewjack: one Sept 5th MS. Argal Reservoir: one Sept 10th JH. Siblyback Reservoir: one Sept 13th RH.JMR. Godrevy: one Sept 15th PAR. Davidstow Airfield: two Sept 17th NJC. The April record is only the seventeenth ever in spring and the earliest since 1965. In an appalling autumn for migrant Eurasian waders this species mustered its lowest total since 1982.

WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER - Calidris fuscicollis

Rare vagrant Hayle Est: juvenile Oct 21st BNS.BJS.KA.JA. Stithians Res: juvenile Oct 24th to Nov 2nd. IG.DJB.SMC.EG. et al. Presumed the same bird. Accepted by BBRC. This species remains enigmatically rare in Cornwall, despite its annual occurrence in the UK. This is the first since 1983 and takes the county mainland total to 12. Four have arrived in September, seven in October and one in November. Six of the twelve have been first noted at Hayle Estuary.

BAIRD'S SANDPIPER - Calidris bairdii

Rare vagrant. Crowdy Res: juvenile Oct 1st to 10th. GA.MDJ. et al. Both accepted by BBRC. Possibly the same bird but treated here as different individuals. The county mainland total moves to 14 - all since 1980. Ten of the fourteen have arrived in September, three in October and one in August. Extreme dates are 31st August 1980 and 30th November 1989.

65 Davidstow/Crowdy remains the top site with four, whilst Siblyback Res., Ruan Lanihorne, Marazion and Stithians Res. have all attracted the species twice.

PECTORAL SANDPIPER - Calidris melanotos

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn) Predannack: one Sept 15th to 17th. The species is less frequent than five/ten years ago. The average annual total 1980 to 1984 was 18 but from 1985 to 1989 has decreased to 3.4 birds. The county mainland total moves to c.183. Monthly breakdown: April - two, May - two, June - one, August - 23, September - 123 (67%), October - 29, November - three. Top sites are Stithians Reservoir - 35, Marazion Marsh and Drift Reservoir - 23 each, Hayle Estuary - 16 and Davidstow Airfield/Crowdy Reservoir - 15.

CURLEW SANDPIPER - Calidris ferruginea

Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Mounts Bay: one Apr 3rd MS. St Johns Lake: one Aug 20th GDL. Devoran: one Aug 28th JD. Colliford Reservoir: one Sept 3rd BTC. Hayle Estuary: one Sept 10th to 16th SMC. et al. Truro River: one Sept 13th to 24th BKM.RW. Davidstow Airfield: two Sept 17th NJC. Near Kynance: one Sept 24th RB. Camel Estuary: two Sept 27th and one Oct 18th DC. et al. With only one in spring and eleven in autumn, the annual total was the lowest since

1974.

PURPLE SANDPIPER - Calidris maritima

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Mounts Bay remains the prime site in Cornwall, with small parties regular at Looe, Par, Falmouth, St Ives and Newquay. Several other sites attract the species less frequently. Mounts Bay: noted until May 18th and from Sept 15th with maxima of 54 Mar 4th and 64 Dec 10th. The latter count is the highest here for the second winter period since 1975. Looe: noted until Feb 25th with maxima of eleven that date. Five Dec 19th into 1990. Par: noted until Apr 26th with maxima of eight Jan 19th. Three Nov 11th. Portscatho: noted until Mar 23rd and from Oct 30th with maxima of seven Jan 3rd and ten Nov 10th. Godrevy: noted until May 25th and from July 18th with maxima of 52 May 6th and 45 Dec 4th. The highest counts ever here. Newquay: noted until Apr 23rd and from Oct 8th with maxima of three Apr 23rd and six Dec 26th. Bude: noted until Apr 20th with maxima of 14 Feb 10th and three Nov 11th. Other first winter maxima included: Six at Swanpool Feb 20th and ten at St Ives Feb 23rd and one to five at Porthleven, St Columb Porth and . In the second winter period there was 13 at Sennen Sept 29th and five at Lynher Estuary Nov 28th (unusual here) with one to four at Lizard, Porthleven, Porthgwarra, Pendeen, Porthcothan and . DUNLIN - Calidris alpina

Passage migrant. Abundant winter visitor. Breeding occasionally occurs on Bodmin Moor but there was no information from

66 this area in 1989, apart from two in summer plumage at Crowdy Reservoir May 16th. Mild weather in the first winter period encouraged more than normal to remain in the county but second winter flocks were substantially smaller. Spring passage was evident throughout April, May and June and first return birds had arrived by early July. Autumn passage was extremely thin until mid November. Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 4100 Jan 8th, 3000 Dec 22nd. (The first count is the highest here since 1978). Hayle Estuary: 1500 Jan 3rd, 158 May 10th, 151 Sept 6th, 300 Dec 19th. (The first count is the highest here since 1965). Devoran: 550 Jan 11th, 200 Nov 15th. (The first winter count is the highest here since 1981). Truro River: 900 Jan 16th, 250 Dec 17th. (The first winter count is the highest here since 1968). Lynher Estuary: 1100 Jan 28th, 1000 Dec 23rd. Camel Estuary: 1100 Feb 1st, 115 May 9th, 275 Aug 20th, 1000 Dec 1st. Tamar Estuary: 300 Feb, 430 Dec 6th. Mounts Bay: 200 May 3rd. Ruan Lanihorne: 400 Dec 18th. The usual inland autumn records were received but numbers were low. The maximum included 35 at Stithians Reservoir Aug 10th, 25 at Colliford Reservoir Aug 17th, 40 at Tamar Lake Sept 4th and 55 at Davidstow Airfield Sept 17th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 5355 4066 1276 11 - - 36 271 540 100 2731 4042 Hayle Estuary 720 654 8 1 - - 14 4 40 2 119 360 Devoran 160 150 3 8 - 20 8 Truro River 325 350 5 3 47 250 Ruan Lanihorne 2 87 - nc - - nc nc nc nc 22 400 Camel Estuary nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc nc 301 520 Lynher Estuary 71 394 140 26 2 9 6 Tamar Estuary 46 300 198 - - - 16 10 176 49 5 21 St Johns Lake 4029 2098 921 10 - - - 213 224 44 2200 2475

BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER - Tryngites subruficollis

Vagrant. Annual since 1977. Davidstow Airfield: juvenile Sept 3rd to 19th BTC.AJHJ.JH. et al. Near Kynance: juvenile Sept 5th IG. Same or another September 16th RB.EG.ARP. Four Sept 17th to 24th RB.SJM and three to Oct 4th MRAB.DJB.BC. et al. West Pentire: one Sept 17th PJD. St Eval Airfield: juvenile Sept 22nd SMC. At least seven birds - the best arrival since 1985. The four at Kynance is the largest party since 1980. The county mainland total now stands at c.74 - all but two since 1968. Monthly breakdown: August - three, September - 64 (86%), October - six and November one. Apart from the single November record all have occurred between August 26th (1986) and October 8th (1982). Top sites are near Kynance - 25, Davidstow Airfield - 19, Stithians Reservoir - eight and St Just Airfield and Porthgwarra - five apiece. The West Pentire and St Eval birds are firsts at those particular localities but heavy sheep-grazing at the latter site should prove attractive to the species in the future.

67 RUFF - Philomachus pugnax

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. In 1980 a male and two females were noted at a potential breeding site in July but there has been no repetition. Once again none overwintered but one arrived at Hayle Estuary February 7th and remained to 20th. Spring passage commenced with six at Maer Lake Mar 20th and ended with one at Camel Estuary and two at Colliford Reservoir Mar 29th. It consisted of 32 birds and almost exceeded an appalling autumn passage. A mere 39 birds were noted between July 5th and Oct 14th whilst one at Hayle Estuary Dec 19th was the sole second winter bird. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Hayle Estuary: singles Feb 7th to 20th and Apr 9th. One or two Aug 22nd to Sept 3rd. Singles Oct 9th and Dec 19th. Maer Marsh: six Mar 20th. Three May 7th, five May 9th and three to 10th. Camel Estuary: one Apr 9th. Eight May 6th reducing to five May 9th. One May 29th and two Sept 5th to 11th. Davidstow/Crowdy Reservoir: one Apr 19th, four May 4th with two to 6th. Regular Sept 13th to Oct 14th with maxima of seven Sept 17th. Marazion Marsh: up to three May 4th to 10th. Dozmary Pool: three Aug 13th. Tamar Lakes: regular Aug 27th to Sept 17th with maximum of six Aug 31st. No more than two togehter was noted at any other site.

JACK SNIPE - Lymnocryptes minimus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Despite considerably increased observer coverage the species continues to be reported in reducing numbers. This year there were two in the first winter, two in spring, seven in August and six in the second winter period. The total of 17 is the lowest since 1974, and compares with an annual average of 30 over the last ten years. Maer Lake: one of the three in December 1988 overwintered and was last noted Jan 31st. Stithians Reservoir: singles Jan 27th, Apr 13th and Oct 31st. Hayle Estuary: one Mar 24th. Kenidjack: one Oct 1st. Drift Reservoir: one Oct 4th. College Reservoir: two Oct 8th. Skewjack: one Oct 15th. Crowdy Reservoir: One Oct 15th. Tamar Estuary: singles Nov 24th and Dec 20th. Marazion Marsh: three Dec 3rd, one to 10th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one Dec 22nd.

SNIPE - Gallinago gallinago

Resident. Breeds in small numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. On Bodmin Moor breeding was proved at Bastreet and Twelve Mens Moor and a single bird was repeatedly 'drumming' above the Loveney Reserve at Colliford May 29th BTC.DAC. KS located a nest at Tamar Lake and young were successfully reared. Several remained at Stithians throughout June but there were no other reports for that month. The pattern of recent winters was repeated in 1989. A large flock wintered at Maer Lake, but very few elsewhere. Maximum numbers: Maer Lake: 200 overwintered and increased to 540 Jan 12th, 200 Dec 20th. Tamar Estuary: 50 Jan 28th.

68 Bude Marsh: 80 Jan 29th. Gunwalloe: 50 Feb 5th. Marazion Marsh: 100 Feb 20th. Camel Estuary: 50 Mar 5th. Colliford Reservoir: 70 Nov 12th Lynher Estuary: 50 Nov 19th. Ruan Lanihorne: 50 Dec 29th.

1986 record hree young seen by GJC. Bred in marsh below Fox Tor. Tl

WOODCOCK - Scolopax rusticola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has been proved on very few occasions and there has not been the slightest suspicion of breeding for at least twenty years. Overall, 1989 proved to be the poorest year for the species since 1977. A mere eleven was reported in the first winter and 23 in autumn and the second winter period. All reports concerned singles except up to three at Newton Moor, Troon January to March and two at Lizard Nov 7th. Singles were recorded in two areas of Bodmin Moor and three singles were flushed at Porthgwarra during November. Despite this, BC was informed that 45 were shot in two separate shoots at Croft Pascoe in early November. Last in spring was at St Columb Minor Mar 27th and the first in autumn was at Boswednack Oct 1st - the second earliest ever.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa limosa

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. There has been a substantial reduction in the number of birds wintering in the county over the last twenty years. At St Johns Lake the winter peak regularly averaged 200 birds but this had declined to a low of 33 in 1987. There was an improvement in 1988 and another increase this year. This decrease is mirrored at Ruan Lanihorne where this years peak count is the lowest since 1982. A light spring passage was noted Mar 19th to June 5th and the first return bird was at Hayle Estuary June 30th. Typically, flocks were largest during November with a decrease to the end of the year. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Johns Lake/Millbrook: 94 Jan, 43 Nov. Lynher Estuary: 17 Jan, 20 Sept (compares with a peak average of 250 + 1962 to 1971). Tamar Estuary: 64 Feb, 54 Dec. Restronguet/Devoran: 80 Jan 11th, 45 Nov 23rd. Truro River: 76 Jan 10th and Nov 12th. Ruan Lanihorne: 80 Aug 13th, 90 Nov 3rd. Tresillian: 40 Dec 10th. There was no more than ten at any other site. Inland there was one at Upper Fowey Valley Apr 23rd and one at Stithians Reservoir July 9th to 14th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. count at the principal localities 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 248 147 21 4 7 2 12 70 41 54 175 92 Restronguet 54 21 4 3 35 42 - Truro River 52 43 10 - - - 2 2 - 6 25 18

69 Ruan Lanihorne 23 - - nc - - 7 58 20 6 64 6 Lynher Estuary 17 - - - 5 - - 3 20 3 - 1 Tamar Estuary 3 64 6 1 2 2 1 1 1 - - 54 St Johns Lake 94 6 5 - 3 43 13 BAR-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa lapponica

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. After the record incursion of autumn 1988, exceptional numbers overwintered into 1989. Many remained throughout the first three months of the year and there was a fair spring passage during May. Birds were at four sites during June with the last at Ruan Lanihorne on 28th. The first return bird was at the same site July 21st. Autumn passage was probably the poorest on record with only four double-figure counts reported! This was reflected in second winter flocks - the largest of which was five at Ruan Lanihorne Dec 26th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Mounts Bay: 24 June 7th, 27 Feb 26th, 25 May 10th. Hayle Estuary: 40 Jan 14th, 16 May 3rd, 10 Oct 8th. Camel Estuary: 160 Jan 15th, 45 May 7th, 12 Sept 11th. Lynher Estuary: 75 Jan 21st. St Johns Lake: 87 Feb, 10 Nov 13th. Par: 15 Feb 23rd, 32 May 3rd. Bude: 20 May 5th. Inland there were singles at Croft Pascoe Pool May 17th and Tamar Lake June 18th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 86 118 105 41 19 3 2 5 17 11 17 6 Hayle Estuary 33 31 31 16 4 - 1 1 5 6 4 4 Lynher Estuary 3 1 3 8 2 - - St Johns Lake 43 87 74 25 14 - - 1 4 3 10 1 WHIMBREL - Numenius phaeopus

Passage migrant (mainly spring). A few "winter". In the first winter period singles were noted at Lizard and but two were at St Johns Lake. Spring passage commenced with four at Hayle Estuary Mar 28th, but very few arrived until Apr 14th. Good numbers moved through continuously until mid May with 50/75 new birds being reported almost daily. Autumn passage was as always, less noticeable and the only second winter bird was at Truro Nov 12th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Austell Bay: noted Apr 13th to June 7th with maximum of 40 Apr 23rd and 29 May 11th. Bude: noted Apr 14th to 24th with maximum of 29 last date. Godrevy: noted Apr 3rd to May 13th with maximum of 35 Apr 25th. Carrick Roads: noted Apr 20th to 27th with maximum of 23 last date. Skewjack: noted Apr 17th to Apr 29th with maximum of 39 Apr 29th. Tamar Estuary: noted Apr 25th to May 15th with maximum of 56 Apr 28th. Trevose Head: noted Apr 30th to May 13th with maximum of 31 May 1st. Mounts Bay: noted Apr 1st to May 13th with maximum of 37 April 30th. Also 50 Aug 10th. Camel Estuary: noted May 4th to 18th with maximum of 40 first date. Bodmin Radio Station: 30 May 6th. St Ives: 99 west between Aug 11th and Sept 14th with maximum of 50 Aug 11th. Pendeen: 46 west Aug 12th.

70 CURLEW - Numenius arquata

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. No breeding season information received from Bodmin Moor this year. Two pairs were located at Croft Pascoe and a single bird was at Goss Moor April 2nd. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 471 Jan 12th, 851 Aug 19th. Truro River: 250 Jan 16th, 276 Aug 20th. Maer Lake: 288 Jan 31st, 240 Dec 24th. Tamar Estuary: 255 Jan, 301 Oct. Tresillian: 377 Feb, 500 Aug 18th. Hayle Estuary: 500 Feb 7th, 270 Oct 4th. Restronguet: 260 Feb, 535 July 23rd. Gannel Estuary: 558 Feb 12th, 337 Dec 16th. St Johns Lake: 229 Feb. Lynher Estuary: 223 Feb, 598 Sept. Ruan Lanihorne: 1000 Aug 12th, 500 Dec 2nd.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 1391 1624 630 189 120 629 1863 2197 2311 1967 2179 1833 Hayle 29 93 189 60 10 35 91 69 100 216 145 25 Restronguet 250 260 92 36 30 140 535 437 527 253 215 200 Tresillian 253 377 82 12 83 185 344 367 250 171 283 Truro 63 159 44 1-3 6 44 277 226 268 152 173 142 Gannel nc nc nc nc nc nc nc 18 140 250 337 Lynher 215 223 65 3 133 379 469- 598 398 319 233 Tamar 255 141 37 25 33- 89 158 277 183 301 236 255 St Johns Lake 156 229 78 39 16 40 60 86 73 153 198 136

SPOTTED REDSHANK - Tringa erythropus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The regular wintering flock at Lynher Estuary peaked at 15 Jan 22nd (the most since 1983) with six remaining into March. Nearby there was six at Tamar Estuary during Jan but only three in Feb and March. Three were also at St Johns Lake during Jan. The fifteen at Tresillian in Oct 1988 had reduced to ten but these remained throughout Jan with up to seven into April. Spring passage commenced with one at Hayle Estuary Mar 27th and ended with one at Camel Estuary May 24th. A total of ten birds was reported, all singles except two at Hayle Estuary, Tresillian and Par. Autumn passage commenced with a single at Tresillian June 17th and ended with one at Stithians Reservoir Oct 10th. Birds visited fifteen localities but numbers were very low. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tresillian: from June 17th with maximum of 20 Oct 8th. Ruan Lanihorne: from June 28th with maximum of six July 31st. Camel Estuary: three July 5th but only one in Sept thereafter. Tamar Estuary: one in July then increasing to a peak of 11 Oct 27th. Drift Reservoir: one Aug 19th to 25th, three Aug 27th. Hayle Estuary: singles noted Aug 20th to Oct 8th but seven Oct 3rd. Marazion: four Oct 1st. Lynher Estuary: noted from early Aug with maximum of seven in Oct. In December there was a peak of 21 at Lynher Estuary, seven at Tamar Estuary on 8th, two at Tresillian and one at St Johns Lake.

REDSHANK - Tringa totanus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor.

71 Breeding has occurred only twice - in 1904 and 1980, but was also probable in 1968. First winter flocks have decreased substantially over the last twenty years, but this year peak numbers were about the recent average. Spring passage involved a mere 20 birds with the last at Camel Estuary May 29th. The first return bird was at Par June 13th with a general arrival from 18th. Although late, it was a good passage with several large flocks into December. Maximum numbers: Devoran: 90 Jan 8th, 120 Feb 27th, 175 Nov 23rd. Camel Estuary: 90 Jan 15th, 95 Mar 12th, 90 Sept 19th, 95 Dec 1st. Lynher Estuary: 141 Jan, 233 Oct, 208 Dec. Tamar Estuary: 205 Feb, 435 Aug 15th (the largest count here since 1979), 263 Dec. St Johns Lake: 224 Feb, 282 Nov. Hayle Estuary: 62 Feb 9th, 98 Sept 16th. Tresillian: 82 Mar 4th, 200 Nov 11th (the highest count here since 1968). Truro River: 50 Mar 4th, 93 Aug 20th. Helford Estuary: 100 Sept 23rd. Ruan Lanihorne: 200 Dec 26th. Inland birds were reported from Stithians Reservoir, Hayle Kimbro Pool, College Reservoir, Drift Reservoir and Tamar Lake. The majority were singles but there was two at Stithians Jan 22nd to Feb 12th and five at Tamar Lake Sept 17th.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 887 985 647 31 2 97 746 830 982 822 1190 1004 Hayle 62 47 64 2 5 58 55 98 81 72 59 16 4 10 - 9 20 20 17 14 7 Devoran 90 66 62 7- - - 2 84 71 127 135 80 Tresillian 70 124 50 - 4- 107 102 126 46 100 44 Truro River 29 40 20 - - 18 93 62 37 40 38 Ruan Lanihorne 149 75 41 n-c n-c -3 50 70 20 75 115 85 Lynher Estuary 141 116 96 - - 49 132 107 233 142 208 199 Tamar Estuary 124 205 133 4 - 16 270 163 109 130 115 263 St Johns Lake 149 224 171 20 - 20 100 115 165 167 282 149

GREENSHANK - Tringa nebularia

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Reports of small numbers on all the county estuaries in both winter periods. Spring passage was noted Apr 16th to June 4th and autumn passage commenced June 19th. Once again the largest parties were reported from the main estuaries. Although reservoir levels were very low, few were noted in this habitat. Maximum numbers: Devoran: six Jan 7th, ten Sept 23rd, seven Nov 22nd. Camel Estuary: 12 Feb 1st, 20 May 7th, 25 Sept 11th, six Dec 1st. St Johns Lake: 19 Feb, 24 Sept, 13 Dec. Tresillian: six Mar 4th, 14 Oct 26th. Lynher Estuary: seven Mar 12th, 22 Sept. Hayle Estuary: six May 10th, nine Oct 13th. Truro River: 18 July 25th, 19 Sept 24th. Tamar Estuary: 12 Sept 3rd. Fowey Estuary: six Dec 11th, including one with white secondaries SMC. Six were at Tamar Lake in Sept but there was no more than two at any other inland site.

72 Dr. C.J.F. Coombs

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 26 35 31 17 2 2 17 45 81 34 36 31 Lynher 3 2 7 - - - 4 7 22 2 2 4 Tamar 2 2 2 3 - 1 7 11 4 6 - - St Johns Lake 9 19 13 11 2 - 2 13 24 19 18 13

LESSER YELLOWLEGS - Tringa flavipes

Rare vagrant. Drift Reservoir: juvenile Aug 21st to Sept 4th. CCB.DJB.JH.SJC et al. Stithians Reservoir: juvenile Sept 30th to Oct 4th and again Nov 8th/9th. FHH.DJB.BC. Hayle Estuary: juvenile Oct 5th to Nov 7th and Nov 10th to 20th. NA.CCB.SMC et al. Both accepted by B.B.R.C. Was the Drift bird different to the Stithians/Hayle bird? Assuming that it was (because of the time-lapse between sightings) the county mainland total moves to c.23. Monthly breakdown: Aug - two, Sept - 11, Oct - eight, Nov - two. Extreme dates 17th Aug 1980 and 6th Dec 1968. Top sites are Camel Estuary - six, Stithians Res. - four and Marazion and Drift Reservoir - three each.

GREEN SANDPIPER - Tringa ochropus

Passage migrant. A few winter. A total of twelve birds was reported in the first winter period. Of these, two had wintered at Hayle and singles at Tamar Estuary and Stithians Reservoir. Two arrived at Porth Reservoir Jan 3rd, there was three at Egloshayle Jan 8th to 12th and singles at Tregathenan Reservoir and Camel Estuary. A second bird was found at Tamar Estuary in March. Spring passage consisted of ten birds between Apr 21st and May 4th. There was four at Stithians Apr 22nd and four at Hayle Estuary May 11th plus singles at Gwithian and Trethurgy. Autumn passage commenced with one at Ruan Lanihorne June 10th and ended with one at Nov 1st. The total of c.67 birds was again poor with few sites attracting more than two birds. Maximum numbers: Stithians Reservoir: seven July 9th. Hayle Kimbro: five July 23rd. Crowdy Reservoir: five July 26th. Drift Reservoir: ten July 29th. Porth Reservoir: six Aug 10th. Skewjack: four Sept 2nd. Hayle Estuary: four Oct 28th. Seven birds were reported during December, two at Tamar Estuary and Hayle Estuary and singles at Lynher Estuary, St Ives and Lanivet.

WOOD SANDPIPER - Tringa glareola

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). After last years dismal passage there was a slight improvement in 1989. Four were reported in spring and at least 22 in autumn. Marazion: one May 3rd/5th. Maer Lake: one May 4th/5th. Loe Pool: one May 20th, three Aug 5th and singles Aug 19th and Sept 12th to 20th. Hayle Kimbro: one May 31st.

73 Drift Reservoir: singles June 18th and July 22nd to Aug 4th. Par: one July 8th. Stithians Reservoir: singles July 19th, Aug 6th and Sept 3rd to 17th. Camel Estuary: one July 22nd. Tamar Lakes: singles Aug 8th and Sept 2nd to 9th. College Reservoir: one Aug 24th to Sept 3rd but two Aug 31st. Ruan Lanihorne: one Aug 28th. Hayle Estuary: singles Aug 28th, Sept 15th and Sept 29th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 13th. Millbrook: one Sept 17th/19th. 1986 record Egloshayle: one July 16th. A complete historical review has not yet been finalised but since 1965 a total of c.613 birds has been reported, 37 in spring and 576 in autumn. Top sites are Stithians Reservoir - 165, Hayle Estuary - 60, Marazion - 57 and Drift Reservoir - 52.

COMMON SANDPIPER - Actitis hypoleucos

Passage migrant. A few winter. After last years optimism, a pair bred on Bodmin Moor. AHJH located a nest containing four eggs on June 3rd. (the first proof of breeding since 1910!). Singles overwintered at Camel Estuary and Fowey Estuary. Others were noted at Gannel Estuary, Portscatho, , Helford Estuary and Tresillian. Spring passage apparently commenced with one at Tamar Estuary May 23rd, but there was no more until one at Helston Apr 6th. Main migration occurred from Apr 16th with peak numbers late in the month. It was a very thin movement with ten at Marazion Apr 22nd, four at Falmouth Estuary Apr 23rd, four at Stithians Reservoir Apr 29th and five at Camel Estuary - the only counts of note in a total of c.55 birds. Autumn passage was noted from Jun 10th when eight arrived at Tamar Estuary. A total of at least 230 birds moved through with the last Nov 6th. Apart from Tamar Estuary, numbers remained low until late July. Maximum numbers: Tamar Estuary: 17 June 30th. Tresillian: 13 July and Sept. Ruan Lanihorne: ten July 21st. Stithians Reservoir: ten July 26th, 18 Aug 21st. Hayle Estuary: 17 July 31st, seven Sept 22nd. Cove: nine Aug 3rd. Drift Reservoir: 16 Aug 10th. Porth Reservoir: six Aug 10th. Camel Estuary: 24 Aug 17th. Lynher Estuary: eight Aug. Loe Beach: six Sept 10th. Tamar Lake: eleven Sept.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts at the principal localities 1989 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec County total 1 2 2 - - - 55 24 36 4 7 6 Hayle 8 2 3 - - - Tresillian 1 - 2 - - - 13 - 13 1 1 - Lynher Estuary 11 8 3 - 2 1 Tamar Estuary - 2 - - - - 13 12 12 3 3 4 TURNSTONE - Arenaria interpres

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. The mild first winter period induced reasonable flocks to remain in the county but the vast majority had departed by late March. Spring passage was negligible but birds were reported during the summer at

74 Portscatho and Penzance. Autumn and second winter parties were smaller. Maximum numbers: Portscatho: 37 Jan 3rd, 61 Nov. Mylor: 50 Jan 12th. Hayle Estuary: 54 Jan 14th, 56 Feb 9th, 53 Oct 20th. Mounts Bay: 50 Jan 22nd, 30 Nov 17th. St Johns Lake: 40 Jan, 41 Sept. Camel Estuary: 84 Jan, 35 Sept 25th. Carrick Roads: 50 Mar 5th. Tamar Estuary: 43 Mar 24th. Par: 45 Sept 22nd. Overall these peak counts illustrate a considerable decline in the numbers visiting the county. Flocks of 100 or more were regular at Looe, St Johns Lake and Mounts Bay during the 1970's. Inland: Stithians Reservoir: eight Aug 21st. Colliford Reservoir: one Aug 23rd, two Sept 3rd. Drift Reservoir: two Aug 26th. Tamar Lake: one Aug 26th/27th. Davidstow Airfield: one Sept 14th. Predannack: 15 Oct 21st.

Monthly B.O.E.E. counts it the principal localities 1989. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Countv total 145 169 47 31 - - - 8 76 82 129 100 Hayle 54 56 7 3 7 33 6 Restronguet - 10 - 31 ------Looe 20 23 - nc nc nc - 1 9 23 21 15 Lynher Estuary 23 23 1 - - - - 6 - 2 - St Johns Lake 40 13 34 41 33 29 19

WILSON'S PHALAROPE - Phalaropus tricolor

Rare vagrant. Stithians Reservoir: one Sept 15th to 20th DL. et Camel Estuary: one Sept 16th PAM.

75 Both accepted by B.B.R.C. These two take the county mainland total to 21 - all since 1961. Monthly breakdown: Jun - one, Aug - five, Sept - 12 (51%) and Oct - three. Top sites are Camel Estuary, Hayle Estuary and Stithians Reservoir with three each.

RED-NECKED PHALAROPE - Phalaropus lobatus

Rare vagrant. Stithians Reservoir: one Sept 6th RB. et al. Pendeen: three flew west Sept 22nd PH.DS. The Stithians bird was the first 'tickable' individual in the county since 1982. Are the Pendeen birds to become a regular feature of the autumn sea-watches there? And will they eventually be identified off St Ives? These four take the county mainland total to c.28 since 1930 - prior to which there is a paucity of information. Monthly breakdown: February - two, August - one, September - nine, October - eight, November - three and December - five. Top sites are St Ives and Pendeen - seven each, Mounts Bay - five and Newquay - two.

GREY PHALAROPE - Phalaropus fulicarius

Uncommon passage migrant. Winter visitor. Only one in the first winter but another good autumn involving c.129 birds. Par: singles Jan 14th and Nov 11th. Tamar Estuary: one Sept 20th. Mevagissey: singles Sept 20th and Dec 30th. St Ives: a total of 59 west between Sept 20th and Nov 5th with maxima of 15 Sept 22nd, six Oct 5th, seven Oct 7th, 16 Nov 4th and eight Nov 5th. Mounts Bay: two Sept 20th, three Sept 21st but only one 22nd. Hayle Estuary: one Sept 20th to 22nd. Falmouth: one Sept 21st. Porthleven: two Sept 22nd. Godrevy: three Sept 22nd and two Oct 5th. Pendeen: a total of 31 west between Sept 22nd and Oct 14th with maxima of nine Sept 22nd and 17 Oct 5th. Newquay: a total of 17 west between Sept 22nd and Oct 13th with maxima of ten first date. One Dec 17th. Constantine Bay: one Sept 25th. Cot Valley: one Sept 28th. Penberth: one Oct 22nd. Stithians Reservoir: one Oct 28th. The Stithians bird completed a unique hat-trick of phalaropes at this locality in 1989. Surprisingly it is the first ever here. (There have been eighteen previous inland records). The county mainland total moves to c.3596 since 1930. (Over 50% of these occurred in just three years: 1960,1967 and 1984). Birds have occurred in all months except May and June with peaks of 1843 (51%) in October 1017 (29%) in September and 521 (14%) in November. Top sites are St Ives - 2635 (73%), Newquay - 200, Pendeen - 165 and Mounts Bay - 151. 1988 record Tamar Estuary: one Oct 10th. Phalarope Sp. Portwrinkle: two flew west Aug 14th SCM.

POMARINE SKUA - Stercorarius pomarinus

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. Spring passage was poor this year, the total of six birds being the lowest since 1984, 76 but 85 in autumn provided another feast for ardent sea-watchers. Mevagissey: singles Apr 30th, Nov 10th and Dec 16th RL. Killigerran Head: three Apr 30th, two Aug 13th and singles Oct 21st, Nov 11th and Dec 16th PAM. Porthgwarra: two May 16th, then a total of 32 between July 25th and Oct 21st with maxima of five Aug 13th and eleven Sept 15th. DSF.PHA.JH.DR. et al. Lizard Point: singles Aug 2nd, 3rd and 9th, two Nov 10th and one Dec 16th SJM. Newquay: pale adult Aug 11th SMC. St Ives: a total of 20 between Aug 25th and Dec 19th with maxima of six Nov 4th CCB.SGR.MV.EG.JG. et al. Pendeen: a total of 13 between Aug 11th and Oct 21st with maxima of seven Sept 22nd RW.JD.DS. et al. Lands End: singles Sept 4th and 21st DSF. Godrevy: two Sept 22nd MS. Gurnards Head: one Sept 22nd GGG.EGG. Carnsew Pool: one Oct 28th DJB.EG.RW. Data prior to 1906 is very sketchy and none was noted in the county between 1906 and 1950. The county mainland total since 1950 stands at c.1484. Birds have arrived in every month of the year except March with peaks of 562 (38%) in October, 289 in September and 228 in May. Top sites are St Ives - 711 (48%), Pendeen - 184, Porthgwarra - 157, Rame Head - 111, Rosemullion - 68 and Newquay - 52. Apart from mid-winter records, this year's December record of 19th is the second latest-ever and those of 16th the fourth latest-ever.

ARCTIC SKUA - Stercorarius parasiticus

Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Extremely rare winter visitor. One off Bude February 11th was most unusual - there are only five previous records for the month. Spring passage was noted April 15th to June 13th but involved only 20 birds. Of these, nine were recorded off Killigerran Head and six at Par with singles at five other localities. In autumn a total of c.458 was reported between July 31st and Nov 14th. The vast majority moved through in Aug with almost 25% on 11th alone. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Pendeen: a total of 105 between July 31st and October 27th with maxima of 60 Aug 11th and 20 Sept 22nd. Lizard Point: a total of 41 between Aug 3rd and Nov 11th with maxima of 15 Aug 13th. St Ives: a total of 140 between Aug 10th and Oct 29th with maxima of 41 Aug 25th, 20 Aug 26th and 24 Sept 22nd. Newquay: a total of 30 between Aug 11th and Oct 28th with maxima of 16 Aug 11th. Cape Cornwall: 25 Aug 11th. Porthgwarra: a total of 54 between Aug 13th and Oct 21st with maxima of 21 Aug 26th. Godrevy: 13 Aug 22nd. Rame Head: 14 Sept 16th. There was no more than seven at any other site.

LONG-TAILED SKUA - Stercorarius longicaudus

Rare passage migrant. Pendeen: adult Aug 11th PAM.RW. three juveniles Sept 22nd PH.DS. Newquay: one Sept 22nd RL.LW. et al. Other reports received lacked conclusive detail. There does not appear to be any short cut to small skua identification. After a complete re-assessment the county mainland total stands at c.110 (but at

77 least ten are presumed to have been noted at more than one site). Top sites are St Ives - 51 (46%), Pendeen - 33 (30%) and Newquay - six.

GREAT SKUA - Catharacta skua

Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. After the excesses of recent years, passage, particularly off the north coast, was much reduced in 1989. At St Ives the autumn total was the lowest since 1975, but at Lizard Point the highest for at least twenty years. Six birds were reported from the south coast between Feb 4th and Mar 9th, three off Rame Head and singles at Looe, Mevagissey and Mounts Bay. A mere nine, again all off the south coast were noted in spring between Apr 15th and May 16th. Autumn passage commenced with one off Rame Head July 2nd. It was a very protracted movement with small numbers observed to the end of the year. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: a total of 52 between July 29th and Oct 21st with maximum of 12 Aug 13th. Lizard Point: a total of 72 between Aug 2nd and Dec 26th with maxima of 17 Sept 18th. Newquay: eleven west between Aug 11th and Dec 23rd. St Ives: a total of 83 between Aug 26th and Dec 26th with maximum of 30 Sept 22nd. Pendeen: a total of 74 between Aug 27th and Oct 21st with maximum of 50 Sept 22nd. Killligerran Head: fifteen west between Sept 16th and Dec 24th. One to four were reported from Rame Head, Mevagissey, Rumps Point, Gurnards Head, Godrevy, West Pentire, Bude and . Most unusual was one at College Reservoir Oct 4th BC (only the second inland record) and one found dead at Lizard Oct 5th ARP which had been ringed as a nestling at Fair Isle 8th May 1989 (Ring no. HW 94459).

MEDITERRANEAN GULL - Larus melanocephalus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Falmouth/Swanpool: one first winter from 1988 to Jan 25th. One second winter from 1988 to Feb 21st. Two first winters Feb 24th with one to 26th. Another second winter Jan 11th and another Jan 22nd. Adult Jan 7th to Feb 2nd, another Jan 11th to Feb 17th. First winter Oct 21st. JMW.BC.ARP.MS. et al. Mounts Bay: adult from 1988 to Feb 15th. Another adult Jan 15th to Feb 5th. First winter Jan 22nd. Adult Aug 23rd to Dec 14th, another Oct 28th and Dec 2nd/4th. First winter Oct 27th. Second winter Oct 20th to Nov 5th. JH.JFR.MS. et al. Hayle Estuary: First winter Jan 1st. Adult Jan 26th to 30th. Juvenile/first winter Aug 20th to Oct 22nd. Another Sept 13th and Oct 2nd. Adult Aug 26th and Oct 21st. DSF.IG.JH. et al. Drift Reservoir: adult Jan 2nd. First winter Oct 1st to 9th. MS.JFR.AMH. et al. Helston: adult Jan 7th CCB. Camel Estuary: first winter Jan 7th. Second winters Aug 5th and Nov 4th to 12th. Two adults Aug 27th and Oct 11th. Juvenile Sept 9th and first winter Oct 31st. SMC.JH.DIJ.PAM. et al. Looe: second winter Jan 8th to 15th. SCM.JMR. Helford Estuary: adult Jan 11th. JMW. Millbrook: adult Jan 13th. First winters Jan 28th and Mar 12th to 31st. Another first winter Mar 27th. Adult Dec 10th. SCM.RWG.DG.IG. Argal Reservoir: second winter Jan 22nd SB.MS. St Ives: first winters Jan 28th and Sept 9th PTS.SGR. Bude: adult Jan 28th to Feb 26th. First winter Nov 8th, two adults Nov 8th with one to Dec 14th. Second winter Dec 14th to 29th. IS.SK.GPS. Par: second winter Feb 14th. First summer Apr 16th to May 3rd and again Jul 15th. Adult Nov 2nd. First winter Nov 8th. JMR.SMC.GRW.MW.RL. et al.

78 Reskajeage: first winter Feb 9th DL. Killigerran Head: first winter Jun 9th PAM. Stithians Reservoir: adults Aug 6th and Oct 26th. First winter Oct 31st BC.DSF. Truro River: adult Aug 19th PAM. Fal Estuary: adult Aug 21st BC. Newquay: first winter Sept 22nd VSC.TMC.JH.RL. Adult Dec 23rd NJE.DBE.PAM. Drift Reservoir: first winter Oct 1st to 9th. JFR.AMH. et al. Harlyn Bay: adult Oct 14th PAM. Nanquidno: first winter Oct 17th DSF. Note the arrival of adults during Aug. A possible maximum of 63 birds involved in this years sightings (only five less than last years record). The increase in the number of birds observed in the county is well illustrated by decade averages of 4 per annum 1960 - 69, 17 per annum 1970 - 79 and 47 per annum 1980 - 89. Birds showing characteristics of Mediterrean x Black-headed Gull hybrids were noted at Hayle Estuary June 23rd JFR and Millbrook Aug 19th RWG.

LITTLE GULL - Larus minutus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Single first winter birds overwintered at Newquay and Loe Pool and others arrived at St Ives, Reskajeage and Hayle during late January/early February. An adult at Maer Lake from Jan 30th moved off Mar 14th - coinciding with the first spring arrivals. Only five were noted; single first winters at Hayle Estuary, Mounts Bay, Gwithian, Crowd y Reservoir and Camel Estuary - the last on June 10th. Autumn passage commenced with a first winter at Helston Aug 7th and continued to mid-November. The total of c.90 birds was a record. Not unexpectedly most reports were of single birds but more regular sightings came from:- Newquay: first summer Aug 25th. First winter Nov 5th. Hayle Estuary: adult and juvenile Sept 6th. First winter Oct 9th. Adult Nov 18th. Swanpool: first winter Sept 10th to 22nd but four Sept 20th. Loe Pool: two first winters Sept 20th. Another Nov 23rd to Dec 10th. St Ives: a total of 55 west between Sept 20th and Nov 5th with max of 36 Nov 4th and nine Nov 5th. (The 36 is the second largest single day count in the county - exceeded only by 210 off St Ives on 27th Mar 1979). Godrevy: three west Oct 3rd and three west Oct 5th. Other notable records included nine in Carbis Bay November 4th (presumed same as St Ives Bay) and three west at Killigerran Head Nov 11th. Eleven birds were noted during Dec, singles at Loe Pool, Bude, Poldhu and Newlyn but up to seven (six first winters and an adult) at Porthleven.

SABINE'S GULL - Larus sabini

Scarce passage migrant. Newquay: adult wp.Apr 23rd to May 15th DB.SMC.Pjiiy.EG.JW. et al. Two adults and a juvenile Sept 22nd. SMC.JH.TMC.VSC. et al. Pendeen: one Aug 11th RW. Two adults and a juvenile Sept 22nd. PH.DS. Porthgwarra: singles Aug 13th and 14th PHS.EG. St Ives: adult Aug 25th, two Sept 22nd, adult and juvenile Oct 5th, one 8th and a first winter Nov 4th. SGR.DSF.SMC.JH. et al. Porthcurno: adult and a juvenile Aug 26th. HV.RW.IW. et al. RMV Scillonian: adult Aug 30th DJO. Loe Pool: juvenile Sept 12th THS. Pentewan: adult sp Sept 18th RL. Godrevy: three adults Sept 22nd MS. The Newquay bird in April is the fourth earliest ever and only the seventh in spring. 79 The total number of sightings in the county now stands at c.839 (involving c.674 birds).

Top sites are St Ives - 517 (62%), Pendeen - 116 and Newquay - 90.

BLACK-HEADED GULL - Larus ridibundus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Bred at Stithians Reservoir 1967 to 1969 and at Crowdy Reservoir 1979 - 1987. Birds were noted at the latter site in both 1988 and 1989 but no information received on success or lack of it. First winter flocks were smaller than normal and spring passage less noticeable. Autumn flocks built up steadily from mid-June but peak counts to the end of the year were below average. Maximum numbers: Helford Estuary: 1500 Jan 22nd. Bude: 2500 Feb 3rd, 3500 Nov 9th. Hayle Estuary: 1590 Feb 8th, 1000 Sept 17th. Percuil: 5000 Feb 10th. Camel Estuary: 2781 Feb 12th, 8600 Oct 11th. St Johns Lake: 2760 Jul 24th. Carrick Roads: 1500 Dec 17th. Leucistic birds were reported from Lynher Estuary, St Johns Lake, Par, Bude and Mounts Bay whilst a melanistic adult was at Par Dec 28th. RING-BILLED GULL - Larus delawarensis

Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. First recorded in Cornwall in 1979, and apart from 1980 has been noted annually since. Par: two first winters and a second winter overwintered from 1988. The second winter disappeared Mar 6th but the same or another was present Apr 22nd to May 3rd. One of the first winters was noted until Mar 10th but the other was presumably the bird noted sporadically throughout the year, and into 1990, finally in second winter plumage. A third winter present for one day Mar 3rd. Adult Nov 27th and the same or another Dec 21st into 1990. First winter Dec 30th into 1990. RL.SMC.AHJH.EG. et al. Copperhouse/Hayle Estuary: the two adults from 1989 overwintered, one departing late in Feb but the other being noted sporadically throughout the year. A first winter arrived Mar 24th and was joined by another Apr 5th. One remained throughout the year and moulted into second winter plumage. DSF.RB.JH. et al. Mounts Bay: first winters Feb 7th and Nov 21st to Dec 4th. Adult Dec 9th. JFR.MS.JW. Camel Estuary: first winter Mar 12th to Apr 2nd DIJ.SMC.PAM. St Ives: second winter Aug 9th DSF and an adult Oct 3rd JW. (presumably the Hayle birds). Drift Reservoir: first winter Nov 25th and Dec 10th. JFR.JW. (the Mounts Bay bird). Very difficult to assess with birds wandering from site to site, but perhaps as many as eleven new birds involved, taking the county mainland total to c. 113. Birds have arrived in every month except June and July with peaks of 26 in March, 23 in February and 18 in December. 57 (50%) of the total have arrived in first winter plumage and 29 (25%) in adult plumage. Top sites: Hayle/Copperhouse - 23, Mounts Bay - 22, Par - 14, St Johns Lake - nine and Swanpool nine. COMMON GULL - Larus canus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. Without doubt 1989 proved to be the poorest year for this species since 1974.

80 Very few overwintered from 1988 and spring passage was light. One or two summered at Devoran and Par. Autumn passage was negligible until mid October and second winter flocks small. Maximum numbers: Camel Est: 400 Jan 15th, 200 Oct 11th. Loe Pool: 90 Feb 1st. Hayle Est: 85 Feb 8th. Fowey Est: 170 Dec 11th.

There was no more than 50 at any other site in either winter period.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus fuscus Resident. Breeds in low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported only from - four pairs, Mullion Cove - two pairs and Green Island, Perranporth - three pairs. CLB.DFS. After a poor end to 1988, flocks quickly built up during the first three weeks of 1989, but most sites attracted peak numbers during March and April. Summer records were sparse and apart from Colliford there was precious few in the second half of the year. Maximum counts: Colliford Res: 240 Jan 21st. 2733 at roost Sept 5th. 380 Dec 28th. (The roost count is the second highest ever count in Cornwall). Hayle Est: 900 Jan 25th. 1070 Mar 13th. 260 Dec 19th. Camel Est: 460 Mar 12th. Lynher Est: 224 Mar 18th. Sennen Cove: 200 Apr 3rd. Godrevy: 309 flew east in one hour Apr 17th. Crowdy Res: 400 Oct 15th. Birds showing characteristics of the South Scandinavian race *L. f. intermedins' were reported from: Sennen Cove: three Apr 4th RS. Millbrook: four Nov 18th RWG. Par: ten Nov 17th to Dec 5th RL. Colliford Res: 50 Nov 24th RH. Seaton: two Nov 25th RWG. (Six at Porth Joke Jan 8th, five at Bedruthan Steps Jan 22nd and 34 at Copperhouse Apr 2nd were also probably of this race). PJD.MRAB. A single bird at Hayle Oct 22nd showed characteristics of the North Scandinavian race 'L. f. fuscus'. DJB. The composition of flocks and the movement of the various races through Cornwall is clearly worthy of further research. SCM observes that a series of counts at Looe revealed that a number of influxes occurred from mid November to the end of the year.The first was noted Nov 19th when of a total of 50 birds, 45 were considered 'intermedins' and five 'graelsii'. By Xmas the situation was reversed when 37 of a total of 40 were considered 'graelsii' and only three 'intermedius'.

HERRING GULL - Larus argentatus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. There has been a dramatic decline in the population of this species, not only locally but also nationally. The reasons for this decrease are not fully understood. Breeding was reported from Cligga Head, Rumps Point to Ranie Point (80 nests April/May but only 39 in June), and inland at Saltash and Truro - both single pairs. Maximum numbers: Bude: 200 Feb 5th. 200 Dec 5th. Drift Res: 464 Feb 28th. Helford Est: 250 Mar 11th. Camel Est: 450 Mar 12th. 795 Aug 19th. Hayle Est: 570 Mar 13th. 670 Oct 3rd.

81 Ruan Lanihorne: 366 Sept 18th. Porthkidney Beach: 800 Dec 30th. Birds showing characteristics of the Scandinavian race 'L. a. argentatus' were reported singly from Maer Lake Feb 26th and Mar 14th IK and Looe Dec 16th and 25th RWG.SCM. Of particular interest is the very recent identification of birds showing characteristics of the North American race 'L. a. smithsonianus' in Co. Cork, Ireland. This is a potential visitor to Cornwall and might optimistically be looked for.

1988 amendment Last line should read ... AHJH reports that 'L. a argenteus' is regular in small numbers at Colliford Res.

YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING GULL

Vagrant. Birds showing characteristics of one or other of the yellow-legged races of Herring Gull (which must surely be separated in the near future) were reported as follows: Mounts Bay: adult Feb 25th MS Colliford Res: second summer Aug 3rd AHJH Looe: third winter Dec 9th RWG. The county mainland total moves to c. 19 - all but three since 1985. Looe is the most favoured site with five records, followed by St Johns Lake with four and Colliford Res. with three. (It appears that the gull watchers of south east Cornwall have overcome the problems of identification with these birds ahead of their counterparts in the west). 13 (66%) of the total have been adults, there has been two in third winter and single second summer, second winter and first winter birds. Birds have been reported in every month from August to March with a peak of five in October.

ICELAND GULL - Larus glaucoides

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Falmouth: adult Jan 14th to Mar 24th. JMW.BC.JFR. et al. First winter Jan 22nd. CCB.AHJH. Mounts Bay: first winter Jan 22nd. CCB. Hayle Est: first winter Feb 27th. DSF. Downderry: second winter Mar 28th. JMR. Whitsand Bay: second winter Apr 8th. RWG. Mousehole: first winter Dec 14th. DSF. The county mainland total now stands at c.230 - about two thirds of which have occurred during the last decade. Birds have arrived in every month from October to June with peaks of 65 in January, 57 in February and 39 in March, and extreme dates of 20th October 1987 and 25th June 1986. Top sites are Mounts Bay - 58, Falmouth Bay - 48, Hayle Est. - 30 and St Ives - 15.

GLAUCOUS GULL - Larus hyperboreus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Mounts Bay: third winter Jan 24th CCB.JFR. Loe Pool: third winter Jan 28th to Feb 11th. JSG et al. Looe: first winter Feb 4th to 11th. RWG. Poldhu: second summer Feb 8th. ARP. Par: adult Feb 9th. RL. Hayle Est: immature Feb 11th. JAJ.

82 Camel Est: first winter Mar 19th/20th. SMC. Rame Head: first summer May 4th. RWG.

1988 Record Looe: adult flew east Dec 18th per CFNHC. The county mainland total stands at c.371 since 1930. Birds have arrived in every month of the year with peaks of 126 in January, 82 in February and 46 in March.

Top sites are Mounts Bay - 96, Hayle Est. - 51, Falmouth - 49 and St Ives - 43.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus marinus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported only from Kynance, Mullion Cove and Colliford Res. Spring passage was apparent from mid January to mid March but flocks were small. Autumn and second winter congregations were also generally smaller than usual. Maximum numbers: Crantock: 100 Feb 4th. Par: 100 Feb 9th. Camel Est: 100 Feb 24th. Perranporth: 107 Feb 27th. Hayle Est: 102 Mar 13th. Ruan Lanihorne: 172 Oct 16th. Overall, possibly the poorest year on record. ROSS'S GULL - Rhodostethia rosea

Very rare vagrant. Newlyn: first winter Jan 24th to 28th. JFR.CCB. et al. The third county mainland record - previous records in 1988 and 1977. Accepted by BBRC.

KITTIWAKE - Rissa tridactyla

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Breeding records were received from; Rumps Point to Ranie Point - 231 on ledges Jun 5th, Lands End - 108 occupied nests Jun 5th, Gull Rock, Mullion - seven nests Jun 14th, Gull Rock, Nare Head - 30 nests Jun 25th and Portloe - 50 nests Jun 22nd. Additionally, the Towan Head, Newquay colony, although not counted, continued to flourish. Passage during the first half of the year was very light, but was more evident in autumn, mainly off the south ocast: Highest counts: Perranporth: 220 Feb 27th. Newquay: 1000+ Apr 23rd. 500 Jun 18th. St Ives: 250 Oct 7th. Mevagissey: 2000 west in two hours Nov 10th. 600 west in two hours Dec 16th. Lizard Point: 1426 west Nov 10th. 3802 west Nov 11th. 1567 west Dec 16th. Falmouth: 1015 south in two hours Nov 11th (19% in first winter plumage). BC 1100 west in 3| hours Dec 16th (29% in first winter plumage). Bude: 200 south Dec 23rd. Looe: 100 per hour west all day Dec 25th.

SANDWICH TERN - Sterna sandvicensis

Passage migrant First in spring was at St Ives Mar 15th followed by singles at Mounts Bay and St Austell Bay the next day. The last named site attracted good numbers throughout spring but elsewhere very few were observed There was a small influx Apr 7th to 9th and another 16th/17th. Up to half a dozen summered in St Austell Bay and returning birds started to appear from early July. Autumn passage was poor but late birds included singles at Newquay, Killigerran Head and Hayle Est., plus two at St Ives during November. Last was seen off Godrevy Nov 20th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Ives: eleven Apr 10th. A total of 161 west between Aug 11th and Nov 4th with max of 30 Sept 15th, 30 Sept 22nd and 38 Sept 23rd. St Austell Bay: 18 Mar 28th. 52 Apr 7th. 30 Apr 16th/17th and 30 Jul 17th. Hayle Est: 15 Apr 12th. 19 May 3rd. 15 Sept 2nd. Camel Est: 15 Apr 12th. 50 Aug 2nd. 24 Sept 3rd. Porthkidney Sands: 20 Apr 16th. 24 Apr 30th. Bude: 15 May 5th. Newquay: 25 Sept 22nd. Inland there was two at Upper Tamar Res. May 4th and singles there Aug 20th and Sept 10th.

ROSEATE TERN - Sterna dougallii

Scarce passage migrant. St Ives: one May 10th TH. Lands End: one May 11th DSF. Par: adult Jul 12th RL. Mounts Bay: adult Sept 4th JFR. Hayle Est: seven (six adults and a first winter) Sept 22nd DSF. 1987 record Porthgwarra: one Apr 22nd GJC. The county mainland total moves to c.745 - all but two since 1951. Birds have arrived in all months April to October with peaks of 109 in May, 120 in July and 272 (37%) in September. Extreme dates are 15th April 1968 and 21st October 1967. Top sites are St Ives - 399 (54%), Hayle Est./Porthkidney Sands - 192, Newquay - 28, Par and Porthgwarra - 22 and St Johns Lake - 21.

COMMON TERN - Sterna hirundo

Passage migrant Another very poor year. The first was off St Ives Mar 28th but there was no more until nine at Carrick Roads Apr 7th. There was a small arrival Apr 16th and another Apr 30th but generally it was a very thin spring passage. Autumn passage apparently commenced with five at Par Jul 7th and ended with a singleton at Camel Est Oct 31st. Apart from sea - passage off St Ives it was a light movement; presumably the majority migrated unhindered by autumn gales. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Ives: five in spring and a total of 289 west between Aug 2nd and Oct 28th with max of 54 Aug 25th, 60 Aug 26th and 97 Sept 22nd. St Johns Lake: 16 Apr 16th Portwrinkle: 15 Apr 16th. Par: ten Apr 16th and 30th. Killigerran Head: 21 Apr 30th. Widemouth Bay: 32 May 5th. Bude: 35 May 6th. Inland: Tamar Lakes: Aug 14th to Sept 17th with max of four Aug 29th. College Res: Aug 23rd to Sept 26th with max of six Sept 2nd.

84 Drift Res: two Sept 3rd. Porth Res: juvenile Sept 8th to 11th.

ARCTIC TERN - Sterna paradisaea

Uncommon passage migrant. Like Common Tern, the present species was noted in very small numbers during 1989. A mere seven moved through in spring and 34 in autumn. St Austell Bay: two Apr 16th with one to 17th. Two Apr 28th and one May 11th. RL.SMC. St Ives: two May 10th TH. In autumn a total of seven betwixt Aug 2nd and Nov 5th. DSF.DL.THS.PHA.JH. Hayle Est: one Jul 29th, two Sept 17th and singles Oct 4th and 28th. MS.SMC.DJB. Porthkidney Sands: two Aug 3rd DL. Newquay: singles Aug 11th and Sept 22nd. SMC.JH. College Res: singles Aug 15th and Sept 23rd BC.JAJ. Porthgwarra: singleton Sept 3rd, three Sept 18th THS.DR. Porth Res: juvenile Sept 9th JH. Argal Res: juvenile Sept 10th JH. Mounts Bay: two juveniles Sept 11th and 18th MS. St Johns Lake: juvenile Sept 16th SCM. Loe Pool: one Sept 20th JSC Pendeen: three juveniles Sept 22nd PH.DS. Camel Est: juvenile Oct 15th SMC.ABR. Does this meagre total reflect the catastrophic lack of breeding success in the Scottish colonies?

(As always a number of reports are omitted owing to a lack of conclusive detail).

LITTLE TERN - Sterna albifrons

Uncommon passage migrant. The only species of tern which occurred in above average numbers in the county during 1989! Spring passage commenced early and involved c.60 birds including an excellent flock at Par. It proved to be the second best spring ever - beaten only by 1978. Autumn passage was less notable with a total of c.25 between Aug 5th and Sept 23rd. Perranporth: one Apr 10th. Par: one Apr 16th, three Apr 24th, 21 May 2nd reducing to 14 the next day. Two May 17th, singles Jun 16th and Aug 10th and an adult with three juveniles Sept 10th. (The May 2nd count is a record here). Mounts Bay: three Apr 16th with one to 17th and three May 2nd increasing to seven by 3rd. Two Jun 16th and a juvenile Sept 23rd. Godrevy: one Apr 21st. Gerrans Bay: two Apr 23rd. Bude: three Apr 24th, six May 5th. Mevagissey: two Apr 28th. St Johns Lake: four May 2nd. Lynher Est: singles May 2nd and Sept 10th. Porthkidney Sands: one Aug 5th. Hayle Est: two Aug 18th, juvenile Sept 11th and seven Sept 20th. St Ives: seven Sept 15th. WHISKERED TERN - Chlidonias hybridus

Very rare vagrant. Hayle Est: a first summer bird Jun 12th to 24th JFR. et al. The seventh county mainland record. Monthly breakdown: April - two, May - three, June - one and July - one. Accepted by B.B.R.C.

BLACK TERN - Chlidonias niger

Uncommon passage migrant. Another poor year with only five in spring and c.49 in autumn (almost half of which occurred in one flock). Porthleven: one Apr 29th JSC Bude: four May 5th GPS. Newquay: one Aug 23rd and two Sept 23rd AMJD.JH.TMC.VSC et al. Mounts Bay: one Aug 25th, three Sept 2nd, one Sept 10th and two on 11th IG.BP.DSF et al. Loe Pool: singles Aug 27th to Sept 1st and Sept 1st to 5th. Four Sept 12th to 15th but five on 14th SB.JSG et al. Drift Res: one Aug 27th to Sept 3rd, two Sept 4th CCB.SJM et al. Upper Tamar Res: one Sept 2nd to 9th. 21 Sept 15th FHCK.EJC.KS. et al. Stithians Res: one Sept 3rd/4th DL.BC.CNT. Camel Est: one Sept 6th to 17th, another Sept 9th to 11th IG.JH.DLT.PAM et al. Porth Res: two Sept 14th LW.SMC.TMC. St Johns Lake: one Sept 16th SCM. Tamar Est: one Sept 17th JMC. St Ives: one Sept 22nd JMW. Hayle Est: one Oct 2nd GGCEGG.

GUILLEMOT - Uria aalge

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Very little breeding season information was received: Short Island: 50 birds Jun 16th. The Sisters: 80 birds Jun 2nd. Trewethett, Tintagel: eight birds Jun 4th. The Moules: 76 birds June. Trevone/Stepper: 20 birds May 15th. Tregudda Gorge: eight birds May 9th. Trevose Head: one pair May 29th.

86 Gull Rock, Nare Head: 30 nests Apr 18th. The only passage of note was 2000 west off St Ives Oct 7th.

RAZORBILL - Alca torda

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Similar to Guillemot, breeding data was very sketchy: Trewethett, Tintagel: 13 Jun 4th. Ranie Point to Rumps Point: maxima of 96 in May and 41 in June. Trevone to Stepper Point: 12 May 15th. Tregudda Gorge: eight May 9th. Trevose Head: at least six pairs. Near Cligga Head: five pairs. Although better reported than Guillemot outside the breeding season the only passage of note was as follows: Trevose Head: 250 Jan 26th. 535 Oct 23rd. St Ives : 600 Jan 26th. 1000 Oct 7th and 1000 Nov 4th. Auk sp. (Guillemot/Razorbill) Mevagissey: 250 west in two hours Apr 30th. 200 west in two hours Nov 11th. Cot Valley: 600 west in one hour Oct 22nd. Rumps Point: 902 west in two hours Nov 3rd. Lizard Point: 1100 west Nov 11th, were mainly, if not all, Guillemots.

BLACK GUILLEMOT - Cepphus grylle

Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. St Ives: one Dec 25th DSF.EGG.GGG.

The 37th county mainland record - 13 of which have been observed off St Ives.

LITTLE AUK - Alle alle Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Occasional 'wrecks'. Lizard Point: singles west Oct 19th and Nov 2nd SJM. St Ives: one west Nov 5th DSF.JH. Rosemullion Head: one south Nov 11th BC. Killigerran Head: two south Nov 11th and one Dec 17th PAM. 1988 records (additional) Looe: one Jan 3rd CFNHC. Rame Head: one Jan 17th CFNHC. : one Nov 20th to Dec 5th CFNHC. 1987/8 Menheniot: one found alive in the car park of the Sportsmans Arms flew off south when released. Thought to have been November 1987 per SCM. c. 1018 have been reported since 1930. There has been records for every month from September to April and one strange record for June. Peak months are December - 440 (43%), November - 324 and February - 115. Not surprisingly the top site is St Ives - 502 (49%) followed by Porthgwarra - 217 and Falmouth Bay - 74.

PUFFIN - Fratercula artica

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. There has been a substantial reduction in the breeding population in the county over the last three decades. At Lye Rock for instance, 3000 or more could be seen in the 1940's and 600 or more was not uncommon in the 1960's. As recently as 1970, 60/70 birds were still present but now there are none. Other former breeding sites at Trevone, Holywell Bay and Gull Rock, Nare Head are also deserted. At Long and Short Islands an average of 15 pairs was noted in the 1970's and early 1980's. In 1988, c.30 pairs were reported but this year no more than six pairs were counted at Long Island and a mere five birds at Short Island. At The Moules, 10/12 pairs were regular in the 1970's and early 1980's but in 1989 the maximum count was six birds May 30th. Passage birds: Killigerran Head: one Jan 13th. Eleven Apr 15th, 18 Apr 30th and six May 15th. Porthleven: one found dead Feb 15th. Porthgwarra: a total of 39 betwixt Apr 18th and Sept 27th with max of 12 May 16th. Mevagissey: four Apr 30th and singles May 14th and 17th. RMV Scillonian: one Jul 17th, two Jul 24th. Lizard Point: a total of eleven west between Aug 9th and Sept 15th

FERAL ROCK DOVE - Columba livia

Resident. Breeds. Pure Rock Doves may still survive on some of the more remote parts of the north coast but they would probably prove indistinguishable from feral stock. Once again very few reports were received and apart from the following all concerned small flocks sighted on the north coast. Truro: 120+ throughout the year. St Austell: 120+ throughout the year. STOCK DOVE - Columba oenas

Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Birds were reported in very small numbers from many parts of the county during the year. Surprisingly, the exception was the north coastal belt from Camel Est. to Morwenstow which failed to produce a single record. In the first winter there was maxima of 12 at Loe Pool Jan 15th and 16 at Siblyback Res. Jan 16th. Spring passage was noted from Apr 28th to May 21st with a maximum of eight: at Rame Head on the last date. Autumn passage was the heaviest since 1983 with the following peak counts: Lostwithiel: 20 Sept 9th. Porthgwarra: 200 Nov 6th and 211 flying south Nov 13th. Lizard: 185 Nov 12th and 207 Nov 13th. Lands End: 49 flew south Nov 13th. The passage of Nov 13th was of great interest because of the comparative lack of accompanying Woodpigeons. In the second winter period there was 30 near Saltash Dec 31st.

WOODPIGEON - Columba palumbus Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Very few reports received for the first nine months of the year but there was no apparent change in status. Autumn passage was noted from Sept 25th to mid November and proved to be heavy. Maximum numbers: Stithians Res: 120 Nov 1st Holmbush: 100 west Nov 5th. 400 west Nov 6th. Lizard: 300 Nov 6th. 600 west Nov 7th. 2900 southeast Nov 12th. Porthgwarra: 300 Nov 6th but only 30 Nov 13th. Helston: 250 south east Nov 6th. Breage: 500 west Nov 6th. St John: 400 east Nov 13th. Trelissick: 100 Nov 24th. It would appear that birds were wandering aimlessly around the county during the two week period Nov 1st - 14th. The count at Lizard Nov 12th is the largest single count ever in the county.

88 COLLARED DOVE - Streptopelia decaocto

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The species was first noted on the Cornish mainland in 1959 and populations built up to a peak in the late 1970's and early 1980's. Subsequently there has been a levelling off in numbers and a noticeable decrease in many areas. The reason for this reduction is not fully understood but does coincide with the species removal from the list of birds protected by law. No increase has been reported anywhere in the county since 1984. Rather more reports were received for 1989 - perhaps as a reaction to my comments? Maximum numbers reported included: Wadebridge: 30 Jan 13th. Nanquidno: 30 Jan 24th. Treen: 32 Sept 7th. St John: 40 Sept 9th. Antony: 80 Sept 17th. Kehelland: 30 Sept 19th. Portwrinkle: 25 Sept 21st. Gwithian: 34 Nov 20th. : 30 Dec 3rd. Single pale buff coloured birds were reported from Mullion and Long Rock May 8th EGe and Portwrinkle Sept 21st SCM.

TURTLE DOVE - Streptopelia turtur

Passage Migrant. Bred in 1981 and probably in 1978 and 1977. Summering birds are not unusual but winter records are rare. Spring passage commenced with one at Trevail Apr 8th and ended with one at Car rick Roads Jun 25th. It proved to be the heaviest spring movement since 1984 involving c.80 birds at 22 sites. Most arrived May 3rd to 9th and May 18th to 22nd with maxima of: Skewjack: three May 7th. Marazion: nine May 9th. Lands End: five May 18th. Lizard: eleven May 24th. Rame Head: three Jun 4th. All other reports concerned one or two individuals. Conversely, autumn passage was poor; a mere 16 birds was reported at eleven sites between Aug 20th and Oct 8th. All were singles except two at Lizard Sept 19th and four at Rame Head Sept 24th.

CUCKOO - Cuculus canorus

Summer resident (declining). Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly spring). The species continues to be reported in reduced numbers and this is reflected in observers' comments: LSP & EMP heard none in the Roseland district, whilst TJD and FHCK describe it as 'sparse' and 'much scarcer' respectively in the Bude district. DIJ heard more along the Camel Est. but these may have been migrants passing through. Spring passage commenced with singles at and Tamar Lake Apr 8th but then no more until one at Caerthillian Apr 17th. Subsequently new arrivals were noted almost daily and the species was widespread by the end of April. Larger influxes were reported May 1st - 4th and May 18th - 22nd. Virtually all reports concerned one or two birds but there was three at Skewjack May 4th, three at Trendrine May 6th, three at Penlee May 13th, five at Treskilling the same day, four at Upper Fowey Valley May 14th, eight at Porthgwarra May 22nd and five at Skewjack the same day. Breeding success appears to have been limited because there were only two records for July, one at Coverack on 22nd and juvenile at Polhawn Cove on 23rd.

89 BARN OWL - Tyto alba

Resident. Breeds. Loss of breeding sites, loss of hunting habitat, pesticides, increased road traffic and a series of cold winters followed by cold wet summers have all conspired to take a heavy toll of this highly vulnerable species. Despite this Cornwall remains a major stronghold for the Barn Owl. Although the North Cornwall Barn Owl Conservation Project has been disbanded resulting in a considerable loss of information from that area there was nonetheless reports from 102 sites in the county in 1989. The species appears to be particularly well distributed in the administrative districts of North Cornwall, and Carrick but is less obvious in Caradon (surprisingly), and Penwith. Fewer reports of proven breeding were received this year but this undoubtedly reflects the valuable input by N.C.B.O.C.P. in 1988. However, on the positive side, brood size appeared to be vastly superior this year. SMC, in his study area in the St Columb - St Mawgan - St Eval district found average brood size to be 3.5 birds compared to 1.4 birds in 1988. At least six pairs bred in Restormel, five in North Cornwall and three in Carrick. Three pairs are known to have bred in Kerrier although the species is definitely thinly distributed at Lizard peninsula, as it is in the Pewith district where there was no report of confirmed breeding. Although the species is widely distributed in the Caradon district there was no report of successful breeding, but perhaps the CFNHC will receive more detailed information.

LITTLE OWL - Athene noctua

Widespread but scarce resident. Breeds. Despite vastly increased observer coverage there has been a substantial decrease, relatively, in the number of birds being reported annually. There was a 50% reduction from 1983 to 1986 but a slight increase subsequently. This may be due to the same factors affecting Barn Owls. Breeding was confirmed this year only at Tregoney and Sithney MM.JWJ. Birds were noted at several other sites during the summer months but breeding was not proved: Droskyn Point, Perranporth: one Jan 15th DFS. Port Isaac: one Jan 25th VH. Bedruthan Steps: one Jan 25th and Apr 22nd, two Feb 16th. SMC.EJC. , Camborne: two Apr 13th and one Jul 3rd to Sept 4th. CNT. : singles Apr 21st, Oct 17th and Nov 2nd but two Aug 18th. DLJ. Loe Pool: one Apr 23rd JSC Nine Maidens Downs: one May 8th to Jul 27th. CNT. : one May 10th ML. Lansallos: two Jun 4th. PHA. Kenneggy Cove: three Aug 14th and two Aug 18th. DP. Wiggle, Whitsand Bay: one throughout summer DRC. Sheviock: one Oct 4th SCM. Cot Valley: one Oct 23rd NA. St Eval Airfield: one Nov 27th SMC. Trebelsue,Newquay: one Dec 11th. SMC. Perrancombe: one Dec 28th. DFS. Millbrook: one Dec 31st. RWG.

Mullion: heard occasionally but probably did not breed at usual site. ARP.

TAWNY OWL - Strix aluco

Resident. Breeds. Owing to its nocturnal habits this species is never well reported, but records of calling birds would be appreciated. 90 At least six pairs were proved breeding and there were many other breeding season records indicating a widespread and apparently stable population. Of particular interest, following a complete blank in 1988, were these reports from The Lizard and Lands End peninsulas: Kennack Sands: one Apr 19th. Helford: one May 17th. Boswednack: one Apr 10th, Sept 5th and 12th. Porthguarnon: one May 9th. Porthgwarra: one Oct 11th. St Just: one Oct 23rd. Porthcurno: two Oct 25th. Birds were also heard during the year at Mullion, Gunwalloe, St Levan, Towednack and . A pair which bred at used a deserted Badger hole for the nest site. DL. Such ground nests are occasionally utilised but rarely reported. Unfortunately it is believed that the owlets failed to survive owing to a Cornwall County Council decision to open up a footpath near the nest which resulted in considerable disturbance.

LONG-EARED OWL - Asio otus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in 1985, 1934, 1927 and 1924. Probably bred in 1976 in the Upper Fowey Valley following a large incursion into the U.K. the previous autumn. Porthgwarra: one Nov 1st JRS. (Other reports received but descriptions did not preclude Short-eared Owl). After a complete re-listing the county mainland total moves to c.48 since 1930. Top sites are Porthgwarra - seven and Stithians - six.

SHORT-EARED OWL - Asio flammeus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Numbers fluctuate from year to year but several areas are regularly frequented. Bred in several years in the 1930's and 1940's and almost certainly near Foxhole in 1983. After a rock bottom performance in 1988 there was an improvement this year. Surprisingly, three appeared in the first winter period and there was a total of ten in spring. Autumn passage consisted of c.23 birds but only one apparently remained to the end of the year. Near Zennor: one Jan 7th. Three Oct 23rd with two to 25th. Tregonetha Downs: singles Jan 29th and Nov 7th to 11th. Colliford Res: singles Feb 19th and May 1st. Trevose Head: singles Mar 27th/28th and Apr 27th. Cudden Point, Marazion: one Apr 5th. Towednack: one Apr 12th. Crowan Res: one May 1st. Lands End: singles May 6th and Oct 25th. Nanquidno: one May 7th. Croft Pascoe: one June 4th (very late). Lizard: singles Sept 11th, Oct 18th to 27th and Dec 25th. St Just: one Oct 21st. Nancecuke: one Oct 25th. Tamar Lake: one Nov 2nd. Porth Joke: one Nov 12th. Predannack: three Nov 12th. Pentire: one Nov 13th. , Camborne: one Nov 14th. St Eval Airfield: one Nov 26th to Dec 1st. : one Nov 30th.

91 NIGHTJAR - Caprimulgus europaeus.

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Formerly more widespread and more common as a breeding species, but range has contracted with recent breeding information confined to five sites:

1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 West Penwith 3 males 5 males 4 males 4 sites 4 males _ Lizard 2/3 males 3 males 3 males 2 males 2/3 males pair Near Bodmin female male pair pair pair pair Bodmin Moor 4/5 males male 3 males 2 males 4 males Near Lostwithiel none female pai- r 2 males 2 males 2 males

Much better coverage of the Bodmin Moor site, but despite several visits by RJL not a single bird could be located at the Lostwithiel site. It also seems likely that the site near Bodmin will now be abandoned. On a more positive note a male was watched 'churring' near Perranporth Jun 10th. DFS - the first report from the area since 1983, but possibly only a migrant.

SWIFT - Apus apus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with the earliest ever - a single at St Just in Roseland Mar 28th DMY followed by four at Mevagissey Apr 4th. The species arrived in good numbers from Apr 22nd and was widespread by the end of the month; at least a week earlier than normal. Despite this, breeding season numbers appeared to be reduced. Autumn passage was virtually complete by the end of July - perhaps reflecting the early arrival. September records were restricted to singles at Lizard and Rame Head and up to eight at Porthgwarra with the last three there on 29th. Maximum numbers: Lands End: 30 flew north May 4th. Trevose Head: 40 May 6th. St Austell: 100 May 9th and Jun 28th/29th. Porthgwarra: 400 per hour flying east in the evening of May 21st. Liskeard: 200/250 Jul 9th. Of interest was a leucistic bird at Upper Fowey Valley May 4th which bore a superficial resemblance to a miniature Alpine Swift. GJC.JH.RLL. et al.

KINGFISHER - Alcedo atthis

Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). After the series of cold winters earlier this decade populations had reached a very low level by 1987. However the mild weather of the last two winters has obviously proved beneficial nationally as well as locally. GPS, DIJ and RWG all report a good year and there was no intimation of any decline. Breeding was proved at Glynn Valley, East Looe River and Tamar Lake. A pair probably bred at St John and possibly at Bude and Loe Pool where birds were noted throughout the year. In the first winter and spring there were birds at a minimum of 25 localities, mostly singles but two at Lostwithiel, Hayle Est and Camel Est. Of particular interest was one at Falmouth Mar 3rd - BC's first local record for many years. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Lynher Est. Jul 2nd and produced a total of 75 + birds. Typically small numbers were reported from all of the estuaries and most of the reservoirs. There were larger parties as follows: Drift Res: four Aug 27th. Camel Est: five Aug 28th.

92 Fowey Est: four Oct 4th. Hayle Est: up to six in Autumn. Birds were at 14 sites during December, all singles except two at Tresillian and Camel Est and three at Bude Canal.

BLUE-CHEEKED BEE-EATER - Merops superciliosus

Exceptionally rare vagrant. Kennack Sands/: one Jun 1st. BRH.DAH.SH.MH.AC. Undoubtedly the bird of the year. The first for mainland Cornwall and only the fifth for Britain and Ireland. Incredibly another appeared in Humberside about six weeks later. Accepted by BBRC.

BEE-EATER - Merops apiaster

Rare vagrant. Porthgwarra: singles May 21st JFR.JMW. and May 27th CCB.RW. Kennack Sands: one June 4th RW.GJC.RLL.LML. All accepted by BBRC. There were rumours of others but no detail has been received. The county mainland total moves to c.69, including a number of multiple occurrences. Monthly breakdown: May - 44 (64%), June - 17, July - two, September - one, November - one, undated - four. Top sites are Porthgwarra with 19 (including a single flock of 15) and Helston with 12 (a single flock).

HOOPOE - Upupa epops

Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring). Bred in 1969, 1968, 1962, 1905 and 1901. St Levan: one Mar 13th Mrs Ellis Quethiock: one third week of March per SCM. Bude: one Mar 23rd TJD. Trelowarren: one Mar 25th K.Slight. St Hilary: one Mar 26th - 28th. EGe. Pendennis, Falmouth: one Mar 26th/27th SMC.MB.GMB.DLT. St Clement, Truro: one Mar 27th WW. Mullion: one Mar 27th EGe. : one Mar 28th EGe. Cot/Nanquidno: one Mar 28th DSF. St Neot: one Mar 29th SD. Rose: one Mar 30th for several days per EGe. St Mawes: two Apr 1st - 3rd LSP.EMP. Treganhawke, Whitsand Bay: one Apr 5th - 8th per SCM. Hemmick, Dodman: one Apr 7th BA. Porthleven: one May 4th to 8th EGe. Altarnun: one May 20th JHDF. St Germans: one Nov 6th - 12th EG.BH.SCM.EHW. The best spring passage since 1977 but a very disappointing autumn. It is always difficult to assess the number of birds involved because of the conspicuousness of the species and observers' predilection towards reporting it, but assuming that as many as 19 birds arrived the county mainland total moves to c.368 since 1930, prior to which data is very sketchy. Birds have arrived in every month except January and December with extremes of 5th Feb 1979 and 29th Nov 1973. Peak months are April - 155 (42%), March - 63, May - 56 and September - 24.

93 WRYNECK - Jynx torquilla

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) There is no fully authentic record of the species having bred in Cornwall and in view of the recent, rapid contraction in range in the UK., any future attempt seems highly unlikely. Curiously, there has been an upsurge in the number of migrants noted in the county in recent years. Saltash: singles Jan 21st and Sept 9th. EG. Cot Valley: singles Mar 26th APC.KH., Sept 10th CCB.RW. and Sept 23rd - 25th. DSF.BAEM.JFR. et al. Trevail: one May 1st per DSF. Falmouth: one early May per EGe. Polzeath: one Aug 30th JLe. Gwithian: singles Sept 5th and 22nd PAR. Caerthillian: two Sept 11th to 26th with one to Oct 5th. ARP.RB.SJM. et al. Lizard: one Sept 12th to 18th (presumed different to the Caerthillian birds) SJM. EGe.RB. Pensilva: one Sept 13th RH. Porthgwarra: one Sept 16th to 19th DR.DSF.PTS. Penberth: one Sept 17th JFR. Pendeen: one Sept 23rd RFH. Kynance: one Sept 24th JAJ. Lands End: one Sept 25th DSF.PH.ICW. Goonhilly: one Oct 10th BC. The county mainland total moves to c.179 since 1930. The January record is the first to arrive in that month but there is a previous winter record; at Porthgwarra from October 1966 to February 1967. The March record equals previous earliest ever in spring. Peak months for arrivals are September - 108 (60%), October - 32 and August - 17.

Top sites are Porthgwarra - 34, Lizard - 22 and St Ives - nine.

GREEN WOODPECKER - Picus viridus

Resident. Breeds. Reports were received from over 70 localities in the county, but as suggested previously, there does appear to have been a decrease over the last decade. In the Bude area JCP considered it less common and TJD described it as not common along the North Coast Heritage Path. JD observed the species regularly in mid Cornwall but thought that it was scarcer, as did JWJ at Sithney. LSP reports that it is quite rare in the Roseland district and JSG found it very scarce at Loe Pool. Conversely, the last named observer saw seven individuals on a coastal walk at Coverack Jul 27th. Whilst reports were received from many areas during the summer months there was no confirmed record of breeding.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos major

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. It appears that the population and distribution of this species reached a peak in the late 1970's and early 1980's, after the onslaught of Dutch Elm disease. The initial affect of the disease provided an abundant food source which was temporarily exploited but which has subsequently dissipated as trees have decayed and become sterile. In 1989 birds were reported from at least 55 localities, but whilst breeding was proved only at , Bude (three pairs), and Trelissick (two pairs), many other sites held birds during the summer months. 94 The species is evidently widespread in north, east, mid and south Cornwall and this year there was a distinct improvement in the number of sightings from the Lands End and Lizard peninsulas. Birds were observed at one time or another at Gweek, Lizard, Helford, Mullion, Loe Pool, Breage, Marazion, Penzance, Towednack, Nanquidno, Cot, Lands End, Porthgwarra and Skewjack.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos minor

Scarce resident. Breeding has not been proved in the county since 1980 but undoubtedly occurs unnoticed. Trelissick: regular Jan 9th to Mar 28th then singles May 8th and Nov 24th. JD. Scorrier: one Jan 15th RW. : one or two calling Feb 3rd RL. St Just in Roseland: one calling Mar 23rd LSP.EMP. Trewan, St Columb Major: one Jul 31st SMC. Porthgwarra: one Sept 12th PTS Crean, St Levan: one Sept 24th RW. Turnaware Point: one Nov 26th RW. Since 1977 there has been sightings at a total of 47 different localities in the county, mainly east of Truro. Thus, this years sightings at Porthgwarra and Crean are of special interest.

WOODLARK - Lullula arborea

Rare resident and passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. This premier songster was formerly much more widespread with breeding records from many parts of the county until c.1968. Subsequently there has been a gradual contraction in range with no breeding season records away from the east of the county since 1981. Breeding has been proved only twice in the last twenty or so years - at St Germans in 1983 and at Treveneage in 1968. This years records suggest that the breeding stock has now been completely extirpated. Trevail: one Oct 16th DSF. Porthgwarra: two flew south Oct 17th JH. Lizard: one flew south, then west Nov 6th BC. Since 1967, a total of c.87 migrants has been reported. Of these, 42 (48%) have been noted at Porthgwarra. 48 (55%) have been noted in October, 26 in November and lesser numbers in January to April and August and September.

SKYLARK - Alauda arvensis

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. The 200 at Pentire in December 1988 had increased to 280 by Jan 20th but decreased thereafter. Elsewhere there were first winter maxima of 300 at Rame Cross, Penryn Jan 28th and 100 at Jan 7th - 19th. Breeding season information was rather sparse but RL suspected that up to 50 pairs bred at Camp whilst PMcC reports a significant decline in the Falmouth area. Autumn passage commenced with 30 at Trevose Head Sept 9th and continued into mid November. Most sites attracted below average numbers, although visible migration, notably at Porthgwarra, was well documented during October and November. Peak counts: Whitsand Bay: 150 Oct 11th. Porthgwarra: a total of 1498 flew south between Oct 12th and Nov 13th with max of 218 Oct 25th, 430 Nov 1st and 260 Nov 13th. St Levan: 300 Oct 14th. Trevose Head: 410 Nov 1st.

95 Porthcothan: 150 Nov 24th. Second winter flocks were generally small with only two triple-figure flocks; 100 at Swiftaford Dec 21st and 200 at Loe Bar Dec 26th. SMC.IK. and SK all reflect that a change in autumn farming practice; (i.e. the ploughing-in of stubble) has reduced the extent of winter feeding habitat, causing desertion at many traditional sites.

Of interest was a complete albino at Kynance Sept 24th to 29th JAJ.

SAND MARTIN - Riparia riparia Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Small numbers roost with Swallows at traditional sites in autumn. There was a well documented 'crash' in population levels nationally over the last twenty years. This reduction was related to drought in the wintering areas in Africa. However, heavy rains in the last three or four years have proved beneficial and there is now evidence of a significant improvement on the rock bottom figures for 1984 and 1985.

Breeding season reports were received from: (with comparative data since 1983). 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 'many' 8 Dean Point, Lizard 2 birds - - - - - Gunwalloe c.80 3-5 1-5 -5 'few- ' 1-4 20/2- 1 Gwithian 28/30 28 small colony Treskilling 66 + 27 25/30 20/2- 5 1-2 2-5 6-0 Loe Bar 0 0 12 20? 7 one one (Figures represent number of holes counted). Spring passage commenced with one at Par Mar 6th followed by one at Maer Lake and eight at Marazion the next day. Small numbers continued to arrive until a general arrival from Mar 20th. Passage was again encouraging with many reports of 25 - 75 birds, plus larger concentrations as follows: Tamar Lakes: 100 Mar 20th. Marazion: 235 Mar 25th (the largest flock in the county since 1982). 100 May 3rd. Godrevy: 150 Mar 31st. Rumps Point: 100 Mar 31st. Caerhays Lake: 100 Apr 4th. Helston: 100 Apr 4th. Lizard: 100 May 3rd. Autumn passage was again light, commencing late in August and ending with one at Porthgwarra Oct 9th. A total of c.68 birds was reported including 20 at Caerhays Sept 10th, 12 at Marazion Sept 12th and ten at Loe Pool Sept 15th.

SWALLOW - Hirundo rustica

Summer resident. Breeds Passage migrant. Forms large roosts at traditional sites in autumn. A few remain into December most years and birds occasionally overwinter into the New Year. The first in spring (or was it overwintering?) was at Portscatho Feb 6th PR - the earliest ever record. There was also one at Lizard Feb 21st and three at the same day but then none until Mar 15th. These birds may have overwintered in the Channel Islands or in the south of France where small numbers now linger annually. Subsequently, passage was abysmal with only one triple - figure flock during April and the only noticeable passage of the spring occurred May 3rd to 6th. Maximum numbers: Rame Head: 100 flew north Apr 23rd.

96 Lizard: 100 flew east May 3rd, 200 May 5th. Trevose Head: 200 May 4th, 500 May 6th. Lands End: 120 flew north May 4th. Several observers considered that breeding numbers had increased slightly but LSP.EMP. noticed that at least four established sites at St Just in Roseland remained unoccupied and EC reported young birds dying in the nest through heat exhaustion. Autumn passage apparently commenced earlier than usual; to such an extent in fact, that SMC failed to document the roost at Par this year, because he commenced his ringing study after the birds had left! Maximum numbers: Marazion: 400 Jul 24th, 700 Sept 17th. Lanivet: 300 Jul 28th. Gurnards Head: 200 Aug 3rd. Trevose Head: 300 south Sept 12th. Porthgwarra: 300 south Sept 12th. Small parties continued to pass almost daily throughout October and at least a dozen were sighted in November. Up to three remained at Marazion to Dec 6th with one staying into 1990. One was also at Par Dec 30th.

HOUSE MARTIN - Delichon urbica

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few remain into December most years but there are only two instances of birds overwintering - both in 1975. Like Swallow, spring arrivals were the earliest ever with the first at Falmouth Feb 15th JMW followed by one at Holmbush Feb 19th RL. Normally arrivals are not noted until late March/early April but this year birds had already been recorded at 14 localities before the end of March. Despite this, passage was extremely light throughout April and the first week of May. Peak passage occurred May 6th to 19th but numbers were below average. The maximum included: Trevose Head: 50 May 6th. Cot Valley: 200 May 9th. Pentewan: 60 May 10th. Lands End: 110 flew south May 19th. Pontsmill: 70 Jun 8th. PJD and FHCK both report good numbers in the breeding season but otherwise the concensus of opinion was of a reduced population, not assisted by the very hot, dry weather impeding the collection of mud for use as nesting material. Cliff nesting was reported as follows: Tintagel Haven: three nests, with birds at two of them and another bird flying out of sight into a cave RDP. Varley Head/Pine Haven: 'colony' FJD.ML. Bossinney: 'birds present' TJD. Lizard: 'small colony' JSG. Polkirt Hill, Mevagissey 12 nests BA. Another interesting breeding record concerned a pair which nested in a cave at the top of Brown Willy at 1300 feet. The nest was a half cup shape high up on the side wall. Arguably the highest nesting species in Cornwall RMM. Autumn passage was poor. It commenced in mid August and continued into November and early December with the last two at Marazion Dec 5th. Maximum numbers: Pontsmill: 200 Aug 11th. Polbrock: 100 Aug 15th. Wadebridge 106 Sept 6th . The passage was so extraordinarily light that a mere 56 birds were reported for the whole of October and only 18 in November.

97 RICHARD'S PIPIT - Anthus novaeseelandiae

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Annual since 1974. All singles: Porthgwarra: Apr 1st - 22nd JFR. et al. Hayle Estuary: Oct 1st GKG. Towednack: Oct 3rd MJR. St Levan: Oct 12th - 17th EAF.AMH.JPS.GS. et al. Mullion: Oct 23rd ARP. Lizard: Nov 3rd SJM. Bude: Nov 23rd IK. Dodman Point: Dec 26th DHP. The county mainland total moves to c. 188. There are only three earlier spring records (1982,1969 and 1947) and only five previous December records. A monthly breakdown reveals the following: January - 2, March - 3, April - 6, September - 43, October - 108 (57%), November - 20, December - 6. The Dodman record is the first from that site whilst the Porthgwarra and Lizard totals move to 71 (38%) and 15 respectively.

TAWNY PIPIT - Anthus campestris

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn but occasionally occurs as a spring over-shoot from the south). Annual since 1979. All singles: Near Kynance: May 7th EGe.ARP. Lizard Point: Sept 3rd - 11th SJM. Davidstow Airfield: Sept 3rd - 5th SBi.PE.PMcQ. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.81. Monthly arrivals: April - 4, May - 4, July - 3, August - 3, September - 47 (58%), October - 18, November - 2. The Davidstow bird is the first at that locality, whilst the Kynance and Lizard birds are both seconds. Porthgwarra with 35 (43%) is the top site.

TREE PIPIT - Anthus trivialis

Breeds. Summer resident. Passage migrant. Main centres of population are found on heaths and in conifer plantations in mid and east Cornwall, particularly Bodmin Moor, Redmoor/Helman Tor/, Goss Moor and /Ladock areas. There has been no breeding season record west of Truro since two at Stithians in 1970. Scarce but possibly under-recorded south and east of Camelford. Breeding numbers in 1989 were definitely down. RL reported fewer at Redmoor, Breney and Treskilling and only one or two were noted at Upper Fowey Valley, Bearah Tor, Smallacombe, Halvana, Bugle, Trethurgy, Kit Hill, Lanivet, Great Grogley Downs, Dunmere, Pencarrow and . The first in spring was a bird on territory at Redmoor Apr 22nd followed by a migrant at Cot Valley on 23rd. A mere 12 birds were noted until the last two at Goonhilly May 27th. Four at Lizard May 3rd was the only party of note. Autumn passage commenced with one at Bodmin Aug 16th and ended with one at St Levan Oct 17th. c.144 birds were noted at 17 localities, of these c.124 moved through before Sept 14th. The maximum included: /Caerthillian: c.62 birds between Aug 15th and Oct 10th with a peak of 14 Sept 1st. Nanquidno: 10 Aug 28th. Skewjack: 5 Aug 28th. Crowdy Reservoir: 5 Aug 28th. Porthgwarra: 27 between Aug 29th and Oct 9th with a peak of 15 Sept 12th. Lands End: 7 Sept 25th.

98 MEADOW PIPIT - Anthus pratensis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Winter flocks in excess of 50 are rare but substantial cold-weather movements (as in January 1979 and 1982) sometimes occur. No definite breeding records were received this year but no reason to suspect a change in status. In the first half of the year the largest flocks were 30 at Trevose Head Jan 26th, 30 at Croft Pascoe Feb 5th and 50 at Cargreen February 16th. Autumn passage commenced with 60 at Siblyback Reservoir Sept 8th and apparently ended with 50 at The Lizard Nov 12th.Passage was generally the highest since 1982 with most moving through in the traditional Meadow Pipit week at the end of September/beginning of October. Sites with regular passage and maximum numbers were reported as follows: Lizard: Sept 23rd to Nov 12th. A total of c.385 birds with maximum of 315 Sept 29th. Porthgwarra: Oct 4th to 25th. A total of 887 birds with maximum of 370 Oct 18th. Other maxima included 300 at Rame Head Sept 21st - 25th, 150 at Lands End Sept 25th, 150 at Gurnards Head Oct 2nd and 300 at St Levan Oct 14th. In the second winter period, 50 at Portscatho Dec 6th was the sole flock of note.

ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus

Resident, well distributed on all suitable coastline. Breeds. Very rare inland. Many more records received this year, included several interesting congregations. The largest of these were 14 at Bude Jan 30th with 20 there Nov 9th, 13 at Hayle Estuary Feb 6th, 20 at Lizard in Aug, 18 at Porthgwarra Oct 9th, 16 at Porth Joke Nov 2nd, 22 at Godrevy Dec 6th and 15 at Mounts Bay Dec 30th. Breeding was well reported and included a count of 14 singing males between Pentire Point and Ranie Point during June. Two aberrant birds were noted: the first at Trevose Head Mar 27th/28th was all white except one brown feather on the shoulder. The bare parts were also off-white LW.RW. The second was a leucistic individual at Caerthillian Aug 27th - Nov 18th ARP et al. Inland: Crowdy Reservoir: two Oct 5th with one to 7th. RW.JFR. Tamar Lake: one Oct 17th IK.

SCANDINAVIAN ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus littoralis

This distinctive race of Rock Pipit had been recorded in Cornwall on only three occasions prior to 1984 but these two take the total to 10. Poldhu: one Jan 9th - 16th ARP; Portwrinkle: one Mar 27th SCM.

WATER PIPIT - Anthus spinoletta

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Formerly regarded as a sub-species of Rock Pipit but since 1986 recognised as a full species. Small numbers are reported annually from traditional sites in winter but migrants occur almost anywhere. Most are reported between mid-October and late-March but April records are not uncommon. Maer Lake: one from 1988 remained to Feb 15th. It was joined by another Jan 31st - Feb 5th. One returned Nov 16th and stayed into 1990. IK.SK.SMC.EJC. et al. Landulph: one Jan 7th AHJH. One Nov 12th and Dec 30th into 1990 JJ.RWG. Looe: two Jan 8th to Feb 25th with one to 26th. Two Apr 5th. SCM.AHJH.GRW.MW. Poldhu: one Jan 9th - Feb 9th ARP.RB. Marazion: one Jan 15th AHJH. Copperhouse: one Jan 16th - Feb 25th DSF. 99 Lostwithiel: one Feb 21st - 26th RL. Hayle Kimbro Pool: one Nov 3rd BC. Other reports received with inconclusive or no description. 1987 record Par: one Apr 4th GJC. (possibly the long-staying Porthpean bird). At Marazion, the species has been recorded annually since 1961, whilst other regular sites during the last ten years include Lostwithiel (records in seven years). Camel Estuary and Landulph (six years) and Hayle Estuary/Copperhouse (five years). The species has been annual at Maer Lake since 1986 and noted at Looe in three of the last four years.

YELLOW WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava flavissima

Passage migrant. Uncommon in spring but forms roosts in autumn at Marazion Marsh, Par Beach Pool and Loe Pool and occasionally elsewhere. Bred almost annually 1956-1965, sporadically prior to that, but not since. A few variants, notably Blue-headed, occur annually. Spring passage commenced with one at Wicca Apr 15th and ended with singles at Lizard and Lands End May 22nd and one at Skewjack May 23rd. A mere 26 birds at 14 sites were reported - the poorest spring arrival since 1984. Four arrived Apr 23rd and 18 May 1st - 8th. All were ones or twos except five at The Lizard May 3rd and three at Gwithian the same day. Mid-summer there were singles at Lands End July 6th and Porthgwarra July 17th. Autumn passage commenced with a single at Par Aug 19th and ceased with one at St Levan Oct 13th. The total of c.336 birds at 26 sites was about 25% above the average of the last eight years. The majority moved through Aug 24th - 7th and Sept 9th - 12th, with only five in Oct. Maximum numbers: Par: a total of c.72 between Aug 19th and Sept 29th with peaks of 34 Aug 27th and 24 Sept 19th. Marazion: seven Aug 23rd, 20 Sept 11th. Lizard: a total of c.76 birds Aug 24th - Oct 8th with maximum of 13 Aug 24th and 18 Sept 2nd. : ten Aug 26th. Sennen: 18 Sept 9th. Nanquidno: 22 Sept 10th. Porthgwarra: 44 Sept 12th. There were no other double-figure counts.

BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava flava

Uncommon passage migrant. Males of the nominate race which breeds throughout much of north and central Europe are recorded annually in spring and occasionally in autumn but the less conspicuous female goes largely undetected. May have bred at Copperhouse in 1981. Marazion: male May 10th - 18th, female May 18th CCB.MS et al. Another extremely poor year.

CITRINE WAGTAIL - Motacilla citreola

Rare vagrant. St Levan: juvenile Oct 12th/13th but possibly since 10th AMH.CAO.JN.BS.GS et al. The fourth county mainland record - all since 1982.

100 Citrine Wagtail at St. Levan Ashley Fisher

GREY WAGTAIL - Motacilla cinerea

Resident and breeds on most suitable streams in mid, north and east of the county. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Very small roosts occasionally reported, usually associated with Pied Wagtail roosts. The mild first winter period undoubtedly induced more birds than normal to remain in Cornwall and this was reflected in the wide scatter of reports throughout the county during January to March. Breeding was well reported from the usual sites plus confirmed breeding at Penzance and Roseworthy in the west. Autumn passage apparently commenced with eight at Helston Aug 14th and four near Lanivet the same day. c.156 birds were reported including a total of c.61 birds at The Lizard between Aug 28th and Oct 14th with a peak of nine Sept 1st. Elsewhere the largest parties included six at Porthmeor, Zennor Sept 17th, seven at Sennen Sept 25th and six near Lanivet Oct 19th. Very few reports received for the second winter period but 15 at St Columb Major sewage works Dec 27th were noteworthy, and the largest gathering in the county since 1984.

An aberrant bird with a white head was noted at Loe Pool Aug 21st JSG.

PIED WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba yarrelli Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roosts, some of which are well established, in autumn and winter. Main roosts appear to be Par Beach, Marazion/Long Rock reedbed, Helston and Copperhouse. Roosts - Bude Marsh: 60 Jan 20th. Par: 85 Aug 27th increased to 200 during Oct/Nov with 150 still present Dec 15th. Gwithian: 85 Sept 25th gradually declining to 49 Oct 10th. : 50 Sept 30th (A new roost?) Long Rock: 200 Oct 10th - 17th. St Columb Major sewage works: 55 Dec 6th increased to 120 Dec 27th. Penryn: 15 Dec 20th. The breeding population appeared stable and included a nest in a working fishing boat at Halton Quay from which four young fledged! JMC Other notable first winter counts included 30 at Bodmin sewage works Jan 21st and 30 at Swanpool Feb 10th.

101 Autumn passage apparently commenced with six near Lanivet Aug 1st and continued until mid-October. Maximum numbers included 60 at Siblyback Reservoir Aug 4th, 73 at Perranporth Aug 17th, 160 at Davidstow Airfield Sept 12th, 80 at Hayle Estuary Oct 15th and 89 at Porthgwarra Oct 18th. Counts of 50 were also reached at Predannack, Skewjack and St Levan.

1988 correction

M V Methane Princess: number roosting should read 150 not 15 JD.

WHITE WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba alba

Passage migrant. The nominate form of Pied Wagtail breeding throughout Europe. Spring passage commenced with a very early bird at Marazion Mar 11th and ended with one at the same locality May 13th. A total of c.70 birds represented the best passage since 1982. The largest flocks included 40 at Long Rock/Marazion Apr 20th and 12 at Trevose Head Apr 23rd. Autumn passage was excellent. At least 380 were positively identified and a mixed flock of c.300 birds at St Levan Oct 14th included many "whites". Passage commenced with one at Par Aug 25th and ended Oct 14th. There were maxima of 50 at Mounts Bay Sept 5th, 20 at Rame Head Sept 12th and 200 at Predannack Sept 24th. WAXWING - Bombycilla garrulus

An irruptive species which occurs in Cornwall as a very rare winter visitor and passage migrant. The last major irruption into Cornwall was in 1965 and prior to that in 1961. Large numbers occurred along the east coast of the UK in October/November 1988. Some flocks were in excess of 500 birds but dispersal westwards was reluctant and only one bird reached Cornwall late in 1988. The position did not improve in 1989, with only one acceptable occurrence. Camborne: two Mar 22nd - Apr 5th EHH. The county mainland total moves to c.73. These were the third and fourth records for March and this departure date is the latest - ever for Cornwall. (Although there is a single June record in 1961). November and December are the main arrival months, accounting for 54 (74%) of all records.

DIPPER - Cinclus cinclus

Scarce resident (mainly mid and east Cornwall). Breeds. Pairs are present on most suitable stretches of the Camel and Fowey with the nucleus of breeding birds centered on Bodmin. Recent coverage of potential sites in the east of the county has revealed healthy populations on the Rivers Lynher, Neet and Inny. Despite this apparently optimistic situation there can be little room for complacency - the species remains at risk from vastly increased pollution in our rivers plus loss of, and disturbance at breeding sites. Fifteen reports were received of confirmed breeding this year. Nine pairs bred in the St Wenn - Bodmin - areas, two pairs in the Luxulyan/ district and single pairs at North Hill, Upper Fowey Valley, and Bude districts. Records were received from a further 26 sites during the year, including many in the breeding season. Unusual records included one at Saunders Bridge, West Looe Jan 21st, one at London Apprentice Oct 2nd/3rd, one at Porthmeor, Zennor Jul 21st, one at Drift Reservoir Aug 25th and two regularly at St Mawgan-in-Pydar throughout the year. There was also a resident pair at Kennal Vale, a pair at Constantine until Apr 18th and one at Perranwell in Oct.

102 At Cober, Helston a juvenile was seen Jun 15th/16th and may have derived from the occasional breeding site at Lowertown. Several records were received from the Camelford and Tintagel area but in the Bude area there has been a distinct decline.

WREN - Troglodytes troglodytes

Abundant resident. Breeds. Populations can be severely reduced after prolonged cold winters. This was especially evident and widespread in 1963, but in 1986 and 1987 these decreases were more localised. All reports received indicate that the species is fareing well in Cornwall. SMC and BP reported excellent breeding seasons at St Columb Major and Marazion respectively. PFL found the species very common in the zoo gardens at Newquay, CLB located at least 12 pairs in a small area around his Penryn garden, whilst PMcC reports a stable population at nearby Falmouth.

DUNNOCK - Prunella modularis

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The species continues to consolidate its position at Long Rock/Marazion after a reversal in 1987 whilst there appears to be no change in status elsewhere. The only possible migrants involved 25 at Lizard Sept 11th with 35 there Sept 19th. ROBIN - Erithacus rubecula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). BP reported seeing no young at Marazion, but this was the only adverse comment to an otherwise stable population. Autumn migration was apparently the heaviest on record. Maximum: Nanquidno: 15 Sept 10th, 21 Sept 30th. Kenidjack: 20 Sept 10th. Porthmeor: 20 Sept 17th. Drift Reservoir: six Sept 21st. Lizard: 100 Sept 23rd JAJ but only 43 the following day. Trevose Head: 18 Sept 25th. Lands End: 60 Sept 26th DSF, 29 Sept 30th. Rame Head: 44 Oct 10th PRS. Near Lanivet: 12 Oct 23rd. The 100 at Lizard equals previous highest total at Skewjack in 1982.

NIGHTINGALE - Luscinia megarhyncos

Rare passage migrant. Although there is a small breeding population in East Devon this species has only once been proved to breed in Cornwall and that was in 1940. In 1978 a male was heard singing for six weeks at a site in West Cornwall and in 1984 a male was heard singing for six days in mid-June at a site near Bude. Porthgwarra: one May 5th JFR. Lands End: one May 8th/9th DSF. Other reports received lacking conclusive detail. These two take the county mainland total to 32 (16 in spring and 16 in autumn). May is the peak spring month with 8. The Porthgwarra bird is the seventh at that site, but the Lands End individual is the first there. Now recorded in six consecutive years after a three year break.

103 BLACK REDSTART - Phoenicurus ochruros

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Bred sporadically in the 1940's and 1950's in the Perranporth area. In 1986 a pair with three grown young was seen at Perranporth but there was no evidence that they were locally bred. In 1981 a juvenile was seen at Colliford, Jul 12th, and there was much speculation as to its origins. In 1988 a male was at Penhale Jul 26th and in 1977 a male was present at Blackpool China Clay Pit in July. None were noted summering during 1989. As anticipated overwintering birds from 1988 were scarce, being noted only at Penzance, Falmouth, Portscatho and Looe. Later in January and during February a further 12 birds were located, all singles except two at Poldhu Feb 3rd and two at Castle Beach, Falmouth Feb 17th. Spring passage apparently commenced with singles at Lizard and Trevose Head Mar 7th followed by one at Nanjizal on 8th. It proved a light passage consisting of 12 birds. However, three exceptionally late birds were reported; singles at Polridmouth May 26th LAS.FMS, Lizard May 31st ICW and Trevose Head Jun 17th PAM. Autumn passage again commenced early with a male at Rame Head Sept 16th RWG. This was an isolated record however because the next was a female at the same site Sept 29th and then none until Oct 8th at Crowdy Reservoir. Records were then regular until Nov 20th. It was a steady movement with no marked influx and involved c.85 birds, mainly singles at 47 sites. Eleven at Lizard Oct 27th was exceptional, for apart from three at each of Philleigh Oct 27th, Culdrose Oct 30th and Pentire Nov 1st there was no more than two at any site. c.27 birds remained into Dec, the vast majority along the south coast between Lizard and Fowey. Most reports concerned singles but there was three at Loe Bar Dec 2nd, two at Godrevy Dec 6th, two at Porthpean Dec 13th and two at Bedruthan steps Dec 22nd.

REDSTART - Phoenicurus phoenicurus Uncommon summer resident, almost exclusively confined to Bodmin Moor and the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin. Breeds. Passage migrant. Breeding season information was again sparse. Four pairs each with four or five young were noted at Bowithick, pairs bred at , Advant, Altarnun and King Arthurs Hall. A pair was located at Bastreet, five males were singing in the Upper Fowey Valley May 7th and four including a male were seen at Bearah Tor the same day. Away from Bodmin Moor, a pair held territory at Dunmere, and a male was singing at Pencarrow May 11th. Spring passage commenced with a male at Caerthillian Mar 30th JH (the third earliest on record) followed by one at Coverack Apr 2nd. C.24 birds were reported with the last at Porthgwarra May 9th. Most reports concerned singles but there was a total of eight at Lizard/Caerthillian including four at the latter site Apr 25th, a total of four at Trevose Head, three at Porthgwarra and two at Rame Head and Maker. Three at Siblyback Aug 3rd may have been locally bred birds, but one at Drift Reservoir Aug 28th appears to be the first for autumn. Passage continued to Oct 12th with a total of c.28 birds involved. Of these, nine moved through Sept 10th /12th. Apart from singles there was two at Nanquidno Sept 4th, four at Lizard Sept 11th and two at Porthgwarra Sep 12th.

WHINCHAT - Saxicola rubetra

Uncommon summer resident. Breeds exclusively on Bodmin Moor. Passage migrant. There can be little doubt that this species has declined quite dramatically on Bodmin Moor since 180 pairs were located there in 1984. Whilst there has been no serious attempt to census the Moor in the intervening years, the disappearance of pairs from

104 peripheral (and more accessible) sites has been patently obvious. A male carrying food for young at Temple Tor Jun 22nd was the sole proof of breeding, whilst three at Colliford May 1st, four at De Lank May 7th and a male at Upper Fowey Valey constituted the only other records from the Moor. Spring passage commenced with a male at Skewjack Apr 17th, but there was none then until the three at Colliford. Elsewhere a total of nine including six May 7th moved through Trevose Head, five were at Pentire Point May 7th and one or two at Skewjack, Lizard, Gunwalloe, Rame Head and Pentire. The total of 22 birds was the highest since 1985. A female at Hayle Kimbro Jul 15th was unusual. Autumn passage was excellent. C.221 birds were reported between Aug 2nd and Oct 18th. Most moved through Sept 7th - 11th, and Sept 25th - 26th. Regular passage and maximum numbers were reported as follows: Church Cove/Caerthillian, Lizard: a total of c.47 between Aug 2nd and Oct 18th with maxima of 21 Sept 12th. Porthgwarra: noted Sept 5th to Oct 11th with maxima of 53 Sept 11th (the second highest ever concentration in the County - the record count was 61 east of Godrevy in Aug 1976). Lands End: noted Sept 11th - 26th with maxima of 10 last day. Other maxima included six at Irish, Bodmin Moor Sept 7th, and five at Gwithian and Sennen Sept 11th, Treskilling Sept 12th, Pendeen Sept 17th and 25th, and Penlee Point Sept 30th.

A mere 17 were reported in Oct and included four at Porth Joke on 7th.

STONECHAT - Saxicola torquata Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Suffers severe losses in prolonged cold weather. Following the depletion of breeding populations in winters 1984/85 and 1985/86 there was a slight recovery in 1987 and a more significant improvement in 1988. Winter 1988/89 again proved conducive to the species survival and this was reflected in the widespread presence of coastal pairs, notably along the south coast, and a much improved situation inland. Of particular interest were birds at Kit Hill (the first here since 1986), three pairs at St Eval Airfield, two pairs at Goss Moor and several pairs in the China Clay district. The species was probably under-recorded in the Penwith district but at least 14 pairs were located on the Lizard peninsula where there had been a virtual wipe-out in 1986, but a steady increase since. The largest groups in autumn were 12 at Caerthillian during Aug/Sept, 12 at Porthgwarra Sept 19th and 20 in the Tregardock to Barretts Zawn area Nov 22nd.

NORTHERN WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe

Summer resident. Breeds, mainly on Bodmin Moor but single pairs breed almost anywhere along the North coast and on the Lizard peninsula. South coast and other inland sites are seldom exploited. One which overwintered from 1988 was last noted at Bude Jan 1st - the second Jan record for the county (one was at Mulliori Jan/Feb 1968) IK. Once again very few breeding season reports were received. On Bodmin Moor six pairs were watched feeding young at Bowithick in late May and several young were seen at Garrow Tor Jul 28th. One wonders what the current situation is on the Moor (526 pairs in 1984, 475 pairs in 1980). At the Lizard, juveniles were seen at Halzephron and Loe Bar, whilst males held territory at Kynance and Predannack. Along the North coast two pairs bred at Perranporth, one pair bred at Trevose Head, singles were noted at Godrevy and Port Quinn in Jun and two were at Geevor Jul 9th. At Lands End a juvenile was seen accompanying a male Jun 22nd.

105 Spring passage commenced with one at Porthgwarra Mar 8th and ended with one at West Pentire May 28th. It was an average arrival involving c.283 birds with most appearing in late Apr and early May. The largest numbers included a total of 69 at Porthgwarra with a maximum of 43 Apr 24th, a total of 70 through Trevose Head including 60 May 6th/7th, 30 at Lizard Apr 25th, 29 at Davidstow Apr 25th, 20 at the same day and 15 at Lanivet Apr 26th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with four at Predannack Aug 2nd and continued until late Nov when one was noted at Loe Bar on 25th. Of the total of c.622 birds reported, no less than 317 passed through the Lizard area. Heaviest passage coincided with other passerine movements such as Yellow Wagtail and Whinchat in mid and late Sept. Regular reports and maximum numbers from - Predannack: c.30 birds between Aug 2nd and Nov 4th with maximum of 23 Sept 10th. Lizard: c.317 birds between Aug 7th and Nov 22nd with maximum of 143 Sept 11th (the second highest ever county count after 173 at Perranporth Sept 1986). Porthgwarra: c.64 birds between Aug 16th and Nov 1st with maxima of 30 Sept 12th. Lands End: 26 Sept 30th. The mild second winter period again encouraged a bird to overwinter this year, at Culdrose JSG, whilst elsewhere a total of twelve birds remained into Nov.

GREENLAND WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe leucorrhoa Small numbers of this large distinctive race are tentatively identified in Cornwall annually. Lands End: one Mar 31st. Helman Tor: male May 1st. Port Quin: two May 10th. Gwithian: singles Aug 27th and Sept 18th.

RING OUZEL - Turdus torquatus

Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1970. Has overwintered twice. Birds turn up in suitable breeding habitat most years but breeding has not been suspected since 1976 and not proved since 1970. Spring passage commenced with one at and two Trevail Mar 26th SJP.SGR. A total of 19 birds was reported the best spring arrival since 1977. Of these, eight were at Rosewall Hill, St Ives Apr 9th, three at Nanquidno Apr 24th/25th and singles at Gwithian, Porthgwarra, St Loy, Trevose Head and Bowithick. In autumn, a total of c.20 was reported between Oct 1st and Nov 12th. There was singles at Sennen, Gwithian, Kenidjack, Cot, Trevail and Mullion, two singles at Porth Mear, two at Bearah Tor Oct 9th, two at Porthgwarra Oct 9th and one 11th, a total of three at Lizard Oct 1st - 15th and four at Zennor Oct 29th.

BLACKBIRD - Turdus merula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn), but also in winter as a result of cold weather. Despite its habit of forming roosts, particularly in winter, this behaviour is seldom reported. Small numbers of pied birds are reported annually. Few records received. Described as very common by many observers but at RMP reported a noticeable absence, possibly due to birds being misled by the mild winter, breeding early and the young later starving or moving elsewhere because of the hard ground caused by the drought. The maximum reported in spring was 21 at Mount Edgcumbe Apr 20th.

106 Autumn passage was noted only at Porthgwarra where birds were recorded Oct 4th - Nov 13th with a peak of 60 on the last date. The only flock of significance in the second winter period was 17 at Percuil Dec 17th. Aberrants included a leucistic (grey) bird with a dark bill at and a female at Bude with white outer tail feathers.

FIELDFARE - Turdus pilaris

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Forms roosts. Peak numbers normally occur in mid winter as a result of severe weather and in mid November at the height of the autumn migration. A single bird summered in the Upper Fowey Valley/Smallacombe area in 1987. In the exceptionally mild first winter period the species was predictably scarce with flocks the smallest since 1984. Only four flocks exceeded 200 birds; 250 at at Crowdy Reservoir Jan 2nd, 400 at Colliford Reservoir Jan 15th, 200 at Crowan Reservoir Jan 21st and 350 in the Upper Fowey Valley Feb 25th. Subsequently very few were reported but there was a small passage Mar 5th/6th including 100 south east at Mount Joy, 80 at Ladock, 70 at Stithians and 45 south at St Columb. Last in spring were three at Stithians Mar 25th and seven at Lanivet Apr 16th. Autumn passage which commenced with one at Cot Valley Oct 3rd was equally unimpressive. 1,000 flew north-north east over Holmbush in two hours Oct 9th and there was 200 at Siblyback Nov 30th. Elsewhere there was a small passage Nov 6th with 110 at Stithians Reservoir, 105 at Crowan Reservoir and 170 at Trevail but no more than 60 at any other site.

In Dec the largest flock reported was 25 at Hewaswater Dec 22nd!

SONG THRUSH - Turdus philomelos Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. This species appears to have declined locally over the last ten years. Few records received but like Blackbird seemed to suffer due to the drought in the Goldsithney area. Elsewhere LSP reported a relatively successful breeding season at Roseland, PMcC reports a stable population at Falmouth and CLB considered the species common at Fourteen at Trevose Head Jan 14th were the only migrants reported for the first half of the year. Autumn passage commenced with three at Trevose Head Sept 30th and continued to Nov 13th. Numbers were very small with regular passage only at Porthgwarra. The maximum were 15 at Lizard Oct 5th, 20 at Trevail Oct 15th and 47 south at Porthgwarra Oct 18th.

REDWING - Turdus iliacus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Peak numbers occur in mid-winter as a result of severe weather and in mid-November at the height of the autumn migration. Habitually forms large roosts but these are poorly documented. Like Fieldfare, unusually scarce in the first winter period with the only significant flocks being 100 at Boswednack January 10th and 100 at Porthallow Jan 12th. Spring departure was probably the earliest on record with the last five at Bay Mar 6th. Similarly autumn and second winter parties were small, but slightly more numerous than Fieldfare. First was one at Trevose Head Sept 30th followed by four at Caerthillian and a single at Nanquidno Oct 3rd. Heaviest movements were noted Oct 9th, Oct 25th, Nov 6th and 14th. The maximum reported included 500 north-north-east over Holmbush in two hours Oct 9th, 169 at Porthgwarra Oct 18th, 222 at Cot Oct 25th, 200 at Breney Common

107 Nov 6th, 250 at Charlestown Nov 14th and 1500 north at Trelissick Nov 14th. The largest second winter flock noted was 20 at Gannel Estuary Dec 22nd.

MISTLE THRUSH - Turdus viscivorus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Like Song Thrush a species which has apparently been in decline locally for a number of years. Following a period of increase in the county in the mid to late 1970's, signs of localised declines were first reported in 1983. Subsequently, steady decreases have been reported from many parts of Cornwall. Although the Mistle Thrush is never particularly evident as a cold weather migrant in the county, the reduced population may well be associated with the series of much colder winters in recent years. It will be interesting to see if the loss of substantial numbers of potential breeding sites in the shape of mature trees in the high winds of winter 1989/90 will have any effect. Spring migrants are rare. Family parties band together to form small flocks in late summer and early autumn. Roosts are rarely reported - the only ones of significance being 50 at High Street, St Austell in 1980, and 30 at Bodmin Radio Station in 1988. The latter site was again occupied in 1989 but with a reduction to 20 birds ML. PMcC corroborates my comments noting a possible decline at Falmouth since 1985. Small numbers were reported from many parts of the county during the year. Of Particular interest in the first winter were three migrants at Trevose Head Jan 20th. Sixteen at Mount Edgcumbe Apr 25th was a good number for the time of the year but late summer flocks were disappointingly low with maximums of only 18 at Keneggy, Penzance Aug 10th and ten at St Johns Lake Sept 9th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Common Oct 7th and continued to Nov 12th. A total of c.23 birds was reported including nine at Percuil Oct 27th and five at Predannack Nov 12th. Second winter reports were virtually non-existent.

CETTI'S WARBLER - Cettia cetti

Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant. This recent colonist was first noted in the U.K. in 1961 but did not reach Cornwall until 1973. Colonisation was initially slow but by 1978 birds were reported from six sites including the first proof of breeding at Marazion. Subsequently, breeding has been proved here in most years and was probable in others. The only other site where breeding has been confirmed was at in 1981 and 1982 but sadly the site has been destroyed. These successes of the early 1980's probably accounted for the continued increase and dispersal through the county. By 1984 birds were noted at eleven localities and in 1985, despite a reversal in the number of sites, at least 36 birds were located with a speculative estimate of 100 birds at Marazion alone. More recently, severe winter weather caused a reduction in many parts of the U.K. including a virtual wipe-out in the species stronghold, Kent. The Cornish population was apparently halved from 1985 to 1986 and was again reduced in 1987. There was a slight increase in 1988 and this situation has been maintained in 1989. A review of site fidelity since the first record in 1972 reveals that the species has occurred in 15 years at Marazion, nine years at Culdrose, seven years at Skewjack and Gunwalloe, six years at Bude and five years each at Poldhu and Porthgwarra. Twenty-seven sites have attracted the species on four or less occasions. Marazion: noted throughout the year with a maximum of five singing males Apr 20th. Breeding was not proved but seven birds were trapped Aug/Sept BP.JWt et al.

108 Par: two males remained from 1988 but only one noted after Jan 17th. This bird still present at the end of the year. Female trapped Sept 11th BTSC.SMC et al. Bude: male June 1988 to Jan 30th and from Dec 5th into 1990 IK.SK. Loe Pool: two males Feb 20th with one into June PHi.JSG.ARP (the first here since 1983). Maenporth: male Mar to June 11th and Nov 18th JMW.JD. : male Apr 29th J J. : male May 2nd SMC. St Enodoc Golf Course: one June 2nd, two July 9th DLJ.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER - Locustella naevia

Summer resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant (mainly spring). Spring passage commenced with singles at Skewjack and Lizard Church Cove Apr 17th followed by a widespread influx over the next week or so. It was one of the best spring arrivals on record with at least 33 birds reported during Apr and another 56 during May. Most reports were of singles but there was also two at Porthgwarra, Cleave Camp, Stithians, Ranie Point, Porth Meor, Soap Cove, Croft Pascoe and Gunwalloe, three at Skewjack, four at Rame Head Apr 23rd increasing to seven May 1st and five or six at Pensilva during May. Many of these birds lingered through the breeding season and presumably bred. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Treskilling Aug 7th and ended with one at Towednack Oct 1st. The total of 13 birds reported was an autumn record. There were singles at Treskilling, Higher Bochym, Caerthillian, Goonhilly and Towednack, two at Boswednack Aug 23rd, three at Lizard Sept 23rd (also a single there Sept 12th).

AQUATIC WARBLER - Acrocephalus paludicola

Rare passage migrant (autumn). For a summary of Cornish records see"Birds in Cornwall 1988" pages 132-134. Long Rock/Marazion reedbeds: juveniles trapped Aug 4th and 19th. Another present Aug 21st - 25th BP.JRS. et al. Gunwallow: juvenile Aug 9th MCH.SML. Drift Reservoir: one Aug 27th DJB. An average year. These five take the county mainland total to c.155 of which 109 (70%) have occurred at Marazion. The Drift Reservoir bird is only the second noted there and the Gunwalloe bird is the first site record. The first Long Rock bird is the earliest ever Cornish record and the Gunwalloe bird the third earliest. Monthly breakdown reveals that 84 (54%) have arrived in Aug, 54 in Sept, ten in Oct and one undated.

SEDGE WARBLER - Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Nationally, this species has declined quite dramatically and this has been reflected in a low breeding population in Cornwall. This decline may be attributable to a combination of factors; the loss of breeding habitat, coupled with the prolonged drought in the species wintering quarters in the Sahel region of Central Africa and more recently exacerbated by inclement early summer weather resulting in low breeding success. The first for spring was at Stithians Apr 13th followed by one at Par Apr 17th. Birds were slow to arrive with only 27 reported for the whole of Apr. A more pronounced passage was reported during May with the last at Dodman May 21st. Most reports were of one to three birds and there was six at Gunwalloe Apr 19th, five at Skewjack Apr 20th, four at Porthcothan May 1st, five at Par May 3rd, four at Landulph May 5th, six at Porth Joke and Upper Fowey Valley May 7th, five at Colliford the same day, ten at Sladesbridge the same day and four at Harlyn Bay May 18th. CNT reported a 40% decrease at Stithians, but otherwise breeding

109 numbers appeared to have increased slightly. BP noted a better season than 1988, whilst at least six pairs bred at Porth Joke, six males were at Penhale Camp and up to four pairs at many other sites. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Crowdy Reservoir Aug 2nd and ended with one at Par Oct 11th. At Par a total of 21 birds were noted, but only one was reported from Marazion. Eslewhere 30 birds were reported from 11 sites. These included 15 at Poldhu Aug 4th, a total of five at Lizard and two at Trevose Head.

MARSH WARBLER - Acrocephalus palustris

Vagrant. Now a very rare breeding species in the UK. Cot Valley: one Oct 27th to Nov 1st DSF. SB.SMC.EG.JFR. et al. The fifth county mainland record and the latest to date. Previously there have been singles at Long Rock (1987), Kynance (1978), Porthgwarra (1968) and Tamar Lake (1962).

REED WARBLER - Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The Reed Warbler was formerly only a very rare visitor to Cornwall - so much so that one at Camel Estuary on Sept 1st 1951 was considered sufficiently unusual as to include it in the Introduction to that years Report. It bred only sporadically but has subsequently colonised most, if not all, of the county's Phragmites reedbeds. The first was at Gunwalloe Mar 30th JH (equalling the second earliest ever record) followed by one at Loe Pool Apr 1st. Despite this early arrival few were noted until early May with singles at Porthgwarra May 3rd, Trevose Head and Camel Estuary May 18th and two at May 17th the only records away from breeding areas. Breeding was proved at Marazion, Par, Tamar Lake and Gunwalloe but no indication of numbers. One was heard at Loe Pool May 14th, three males summered at Swanpool and Harlyn Bay and two males at St John and Porthcothan. However, only one male was heard at Bolingey compared with seven in 1987. The continued presence at St John is encouraging, as is the more widespread scatter of records than in 1988 Autumn passage apparently commenced with six at Marazion Aug 19th and ended there Oct 3rd. No other information was forthcoming from this site but at Par 18 were noted Aug 27th to Sept 11th. Singles at Towednack Sept 11th and Lizard Sept 21st were the only others reported.

ICTERINE WARBLER - Hippolais icterina

Occasional passage migrant (autumn). Boswednack: one trapped and ringed Aug 24th EGG.GGG. Nanquidno: one Sept 21st - 24th DSF.DAC. et al. Caerthillian: one Sept 25th AH.JH.SJM.ARP. The county mainland total moves to c.38 - all but one since 1966. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 16, Lizard - 5, and Marazion, Trevail, Kenidjack and now Nanquidno with two each. There has been twelve arrivals in Aug, 22 (58%) in Sept and 4 in Oct. Other reports received lacking descriptions.

MELODIOUS WARBLER - Hippolais polyglotta

Occasional passage migrant (mainly autumn). Lizard: singing male May 24th BC. Nanquidno: one Sept 24th - 29th. ASD.RB. et al. The county mainland total progresses to c.77 - all but one since 1965.

110 Top sites are Porthgwarra - 37 (48%), Nanquidno - 8 and Cot Valley - 6. The Lizard bird is the third for May (previous records in 1985 and 1907). Others have arrived as follows: July - one, Aug - 30, Sept - 32, Oct - ten and Nov - one.

DARTFORD WARBLER - Sylvia undata

Status uncertain. Rare resident? Breeds? Rare passage migrant. Birds have been present in the breeding season in every year since 1980. In that year breeding has proved for the first time since 1940. At this site in south east Cornwall three of four pairs bred annually until 1985 when there was a peak of at least six pairs. Subsequently there has been a decrease, related no doubt to the succession of cold winters. Only three territories were identified in 1986 and none in 1987, although three single sightings were reported late in the year. The eventual fate of these birds is not known but, despite repeated, diligent searching in the 1988 breeding season not a single bird could be found here. There was little room for optimism this year with only one there Aug 14th and a pair Sept 2nd DRC.KH. Other recent sites were not occupied during 1989 but there was a report of a pair feeding young on the north coast June 7th Mr Attyer and a family party at a Bodmin Moor site July 2nd Mrs JG. 1988 record

Lantivet Bay: one Mar 27th CFNHC.

SUBALPINE WARBLER - Sylvia cantillans

Rare vagrant. Caerthillian: male Mar 30th to Apr 8th. JH. et al. The eighth county mainland record. Accepted by B.B.R.C. Now recorded in three consecutive years. This is believed to be the earliest ever record for Britain and Ireland. Three of the eight have occurred at Lizard, two at Porthgwarra and one each at St Levan, Kenidjack and Skewjack. BARRED WARBLER - Sylvia nisoria

Rare passage migrant (autumn). Nanquidno: singles Sept 26th and Oct 9th. AH.CAO.BS. et al. Possibly the same bird on both occasions but treated as two because of the lack of intervening sightings. The county mainland total moves to c.28 - all west of St Ives/Penzance. Nineteen (68%) have occurred at Porthgwarra, five in the St Just valleys and singles at Lands End, Drift Reservoir, St Ives and Pendeen. Two have arrived in Aug, 13 in Sept, 12 in Oct and one not dated.

LESSER WHITETHROAT - Sylvia curruca

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Formerly a very rare summer visitor and passage migrant with only three instances of proven breeding prior to 1977, in which year a pair nested successfully at Saltash. Subsequently the number of occurrences has increased quite dramatically with suspected or probable breeding annual since 1981. Yet another record-breaking year. c.30 birds arrived in spring with the first at Porthgwarra Apr 18th, followed by a single at Skewjack Apr 20th. By the end of the month another seven, including two at Rame Head Apr 29th, had arrived. During May, the vast majority were singles, but there was also four at Rame Head/Penlee Point May 1st, two at Porthcothan the same day, two at Caerthillian May 3rd, two at St Anthony Head May 4th, three at Porthgwarra May 9th, two at Trevail and three males at different sites on Camel Estuary May 22nd. Most moved quickly through and there was only a single new bird in June; at Breney Common on 8th.

Ill The Trevail birds remained to breed, as did two pairs at Gwithian SGR PAR. Breeding was also probable at Camel Estuary. Autumn passage was the best on record. c.18 birds were reported from 14 sites. The first was one at Upper Tamar Reservoir Aug 18th RMRJ and ended with a very late bird at Porthgwarra Oct 17th - 31st. DSF.JH. et al. Between dates there were at least 16 birds, including a family party of four or five birds at Crantock Aug 28th - Sept 4th. ACH.BCW.RFH. At Rame Head there were singles Aug 29th and Sept 25th and at Church Cove/Caerthillian singles Sept 8th - 19th and 30th. Other Aug/Sept reports were single day/single bird sightings. In Oct there were further singles at Wadebridge on 10th and Kenidjack on 17th. Some degree of this species phenomenal increase in Cornwall can be gauged from recent five year averages (birds per annum): 1970-74 = 2, 1975-79 = 8.6, 1980-84 = 20, 1985-89 = 34.2.

COMMON WHITETHROAT - Sylvia communis

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Formerly much more common, this species has never fully recovered from the population crash of the late 1960's and numbers now fluctuate annually around a comparatively low base. In common with several other species, spring passage apparently commenced very early this year with reports of two at Cot Mar 26th KH and one at Hayle Mar 28th JR. These were exceptional however, because apart from a few in the Mevagissey/Portholland area Apr 10th/12th the main arrival came after Apr 21st. As usual, small numbers were widespread by the end of the month, and birds continued to arrive until mid-May. Numbers were about the average of recent years with maximum of 24 at Rame Head Apr 29th, 12 at Porthgwarra the same day increasing to 20 by May 7th, nine in the Kynance - Polurrian area May 2nd, ten at Lizard Point May 3rd, eight at Trevose Head May 7th and eight at Predannack May 27th. Breeding was reported from most parts of the county but was particularly prevalent on the Lizard peninsula and along the Perranporth-Newquay coastal belt. At Falmouth PMcC reported a possible increase whilst in the Helston/Helford/ area RHP noted a spectacular increase with males widely seen, including four pairs on the east slope of where there was none in 1988. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Marazion Aug 15th and ended with one at Porthgwarra Oct 13th. c.75 birds were reported, but at only eleven sites. Ten were at Aug 22nd, 30 at Porthgwarra Aug 28th, with another 12 there Sept 11th, five at Trevail Sept 3rd and five at Caerthillian Sept 11th, but all other occurrences involved three or less birds. Three others were reported in Oct; at Lizard, Rame Head and Loe Pool.

GARDEN WARBLER - Sylvia borin

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Well distributed in suitable habitat east of Truro. There are also now regular reports from several sites in the west of the county, notably around Camborne, Helston, Falmouth and the Lands End peninsula where it was previously much less common. The first in spring was a single at Duckpool Apr 29th - the only record for the month and the latest first arrival since 1981. Small numbers arrived over the next three weeks but it proved to be a very poor movement. Most reports involved singles but there was seven at Polbrock May 7th, two at Trevose Head the same day, three at Helston May 8th and a maximum of four at Skewjack May 22nd.

112 Breeding was so sparsely reported that it cannot be put into perspective with recent years. Autumn passage apparently commenced with a single at Cot Aug 29th. c.30 birds were reported from 15 sites. Most were single bird/single day sightings but there were more regular reports as follows: Porthgwarra: singles regular Sept 2nd - Nov 1st. Trevail: singles regular Sept 3rd - Oct 31st. Nanquidno: two Sept 4th and singles to Oct 18th. Lizard: singles regular Sept 11th - Oct 30th with maximum of six Sept 12th. Sennen: three Sept 11th. Apart from the Porthgwarra Nov bird there was another extremely late bird at St Just-in Roseland Nov 15th LSP.

BLACKCAP - Sylvia atricapilla

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few winter. In the first winter period (Jan - mid Mar) c.26 birds were reported, 19 in Jan, five in Feb and two in Mar. Four at Penzance and two at Holmbush remained throughout the period. Elsewhere there was four at Saltash Jan 7th, two males at Falmouth, a male and female at Swanpool and two at Penryn. All others were singles. Spring passage probably commenced with a male at Gerrans Mar 22nd followed by males at Pontsmill, Luxulyan and Par Mar 31st. Very few were reported until the third week of Apr and even then numbers were low. The maximum were six at Duckpool, six at Skewjack and five at Mevagissey - all Apr 29th and six at Loe Pool May 1st. The species was described as widespread and in good numbers at many west and mid Cornwall sites during the breeding season and PMcC reported a significant increase since 1985 at Falmouth. Autumn passage was about the average of recent years (1988 excepted) with c.130 birds reported. The first was one at Kenneggy Aug 8th and the last at Rock Nov 15th. Numbers were very low during Aug and Sept and again in Nov. Regular reports and maxima included: Trevail: regular Sept 1st - Oct 29th with maxima of seven Oct 8th. Lizard: Sept 6th - Nov 1st with maxima of 15 Oct 1st. Porthgwarra: Oct 4th - 30th with maximum of seven Oct 11th - 18th. Penberth: 15 Oct 17th. C.22 birds were reported for late Nov and Dec - the best second winter total for at least 15 years. There were several multiple occurrences including three different birds ringed at St Columb Major, three at Holmbush and two at Mullion, Marazion, Goldsithney and Fowey.

PALLAS'S WARBLER - Phylloscopus proregulus

Rare vagrant. Porthgwarra: one Oct 27th - 29th. PJ.BDJ.TJT.ASG.RJF. et al. The eleventh county mainland record - all since 1975. Seven of the eleven have occurred in the Porthgwarra/St Levan area, three at Lizard and one at Swanpool. Always one of the latest autumn migrants - all Cornish records have fallen between Oct 23rd and Nov 9th, with eight in Oct and three in Nov. Accepted by BBRC.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER - Phylloscopus inornatus

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Very rare winter visitor. Loe Pool: one Jan 2nd to Apr 1st. JSG.WFL.IM et al. Lizard: one Oct 5th BC.

113 Cot Valley: one Oct 5th - 9th, two Oct 10th. DSF.EGG.GGG et al. St Levan: one Oct 9th - 13th. EAF.JPS et al. St Loy: one Oct 11th - 17th. AMH et al. Porthgwarra: one Oct 15th - 16th. KH et al. Penberth: one Oct 17th/18th DSF et al. Nanquidno: one Oct 20th - 24th. JFR et al. Zennor: three Oct 21st. AMH et al. St Columb Sewage Works: one Dec 26th to at least Mar 1990. NAC.SMC. Another excellent year - the sixth in succession. The county mainland total moves to c. 153, no less than 113 of which have occurred since 1983. The Loe Pool record is the first evidence of overwintering in the county. Incredibly this feat was repeated by the St Columb bird (also only the third inland record). The most frequently visited sites remain Porthgwarra, Cot, Nanquidno and Lizard with 33, 23, 18 and 12 birds respectively. Monthly breakdown reveals: January - one, September - nine, October - 134 (87%), November - six, December - three.

Yellow-Browed Warbler Ashley Fisher

RADDE'S WARBLER - Phylloscopus schwarzi

Very rare vagrant. Sennen: one Oct 17th - 22nd.AMH.CAO.et al. Following hot on the heels of last year's first, we now have the second county mainland record. Note the date of finding - the same as the 1988 bird!

BONELLI'S WARBLER - Phylloscopus bonellii

Very rare vagrant. Lands End: one Aug 28th DSF.RA.PH. Porthgwarra: one Sept 17th - 30th CCB.JH et al. Both accepted by BBRC. The fourth and fifth county mainland records. All have occurred in West Cornwall. The Lands End bird is the earliest to date.

114 WOOD WARBLER - Phylloscopus sibilatrix

Uncommon summer resident. Occasionally breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Most breeding season records derive from the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin and the valleys of the Rivers Fowey, Camel, Lynher and Tamar. The number of singing males per annum fluctuates and site fidelity from year to year is not assured. Breeding was proved this year at Draynes Wood when SCM noted a pair feeding recently fledged young July 30th. (This was the first confirmed breeding in the county since 1976). Elsewhere there was an improvement in several areas, an excellent spring passage of at least 14 birds but none in autumn for the first time since 1980. Breage: one Apr 23rd/24th. RHP. : one Apr 26th. SMC.MB Treworgie, : one Apr 30th TJD. Dunmere/Pencarrow Woods: one May 3rd, four May 21st and one to June 13th. SMC.MB.GJC. Lundy Woods, Millook: one May 6th TJD. Nanquidno: one May 6th CCB Kenidjack: one May 6th CCB.JFR. Trevose Head: one May 7th RW Near Kynance: one May 7th EGe Cot Valley: singles May 9th/10th and May 28th JFR.CCB.ICW. Peters Wood, Boscastle: one May 19th TJD Golitha Wood: two males May 20th and two July 29th BTC.AHJH. Trevail: one May 22nd SGR Porthgwarra: one May 23rd PG Callywith Wood, Bodmin: one May 27th GJC. Luxulyan: one May 29th GRW.MW. Gunoak Wood, Tamar Valley: two males displaying June 22nd but unfortunately trees had been felled July 18th and birds not seen. BTC.

1988 record Luckett: two June 11th per CFNHC.

CHIFCHAFF - Phyllocsupus collybita

Common summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Small numbers "winter". The exceptionally mild winter 1988/89 certainly induced more than usual to remain in the county. C.82 birds were noted January to mid March. Fifty-six of these were located in January, 18 "new" birds in February and eight birds in March. As usual most reports were of one to three birds but large numbers at: Helston Sewage Works: 16 January 16th, 20 February 5th. Loe Pool: ten January 21st (no doubt birds from the above site). Marazion: six February 2nd - 10th. Cargreen: four February 16th. Spring passage apparently commenced with one at Gannel Estuary March 19th, but was more evident from March 25th with dozens of reports by the end of the month. The maximum included ten at Pontsmill March 26th, six at Froe Creek the same day, 20 at Breney Common March 27th, 12 at Menadarva March 29th, 20 at Pentewan March 31st, 20 at Kennack Sands April 10th, ten at St Ives the same day, ten at Flushing April 11th, 14 at Trevail April 15th, 27 at Skewjack April 17th, seven at Porthgwarra April 18th, 16 at Rame Head April 29th, 12 at Lizard May 3rd and ten at Swanpool May 5th. PMcC reported a significant increase at Falmouth but otherwise there was a dearth of breeding season data. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 16 at Stithians September 1st and, as usual, continued into mid November.

115 It was a reasonable passage with most moving through during the first and last weeks of October. Maximum numbers: Lizard: c.70 noted between September 11th and November 19th with a maximum 51 October 1st. Porthgwarra: c.38 noted September 12th to November 6th with a maximum 18 September 12th. Cot Valley: c.72 noted September 13th to November 26th with maxima 15 October 1st and 30 October 27th. Chapel Porth: 12 September 24th. St Loy: 14 October 11th. Pendeen: 15 October 30th. C.73 birds were reported during December, the highest second winter period since at least 1976/77 - the year of RDP's survey of birds wintering at sewage farms (see "The Birds of Cornwall and Isles of Scilly" pages 265 - 268). Most reports were of singles or duo's but there were five at Marazion December 3rd, six at St Columb Sewage Works December 26th and 45 at Helston Sewage Works December 31st. SB MS. Many records of grey birds were received, some of which were reported at 'tnstis', but most were almost certainly 'abietinus'. One at November 26th was positively identified by SCM as 'tristis'.

WILLOW WARBLER - Phylloscopus trochilus

Abundant summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Various claims have been made of birds wintering in the county, but none is considered fully authenticated. Spring passage commenced with one at Mullion Mar 26th - the earliest since 1982. Birds had arrived at nine other sites before the end of the month, but numbers remained low until mid-Apr. At coastal migration sites passage was poor; 30 at Trevail Apr 15th and 16 at Porthgwarra Apr 18th proving exceptional. At Sennen 80 were noted Apr 17th whilst 31 were singing at Predannack May 27th. At breeding sites 20 had reached Redmoor Apr 4th, 12 were at Lanivet Apr 18th and there was 70 singing males in the Upper Fowey Valley May 7th. No breeding season information was received but there was no reason to suspect any change in status. Autumn passage went virtually un-noticed or un-reported. Birds were noted from Sept 9th to October 22nd with an exceptionally late bird at Lizard Nov 6th. A mere 75 birds were reported, including 30 at Trevose Head Sept 12th, 24 at Porthgwarra the same day and six Cot Valley Sept 13th. The Nov bird was the second record for the month and was an interesting bird with ochre coloured legs and feet. SP.

1986 record Porthgwarra: 300+ Sept 14th GJC (the second largest concentration on record - exceeded only by 500 at Lands End Aug 23rd 1984).

GOLDCREST - Regulus regulus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The succession of cold winters 1984/86 undoubtedly had a deletorious effect on this species but subsequent mild winters have assisted an almost complete recovery. There was a paucity of first winter records this year although 20 at Loe Pool Feb 5th was notable. A single spring migrant was reported from Trevose Head April 9th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Lizard Sept 3rd and continued until mid-Nov. It was an excellent movement involving many hundreds if not thousands of birds with maxima as follows: 116 Lizard: c.250 noted between Sept 3rd and Oct 30th with maximum of 100 Oct 1st and 141 Oct 7th. Kenidjack: 36 Oct 3rd. Cot Valley: c.180 noted between Sept 12th and Oct 27th with maximum of 100 Oct 1st and 60 Oct 27th. Rame Head: 60 Oct 1st, 50 Oct 10th. Duckpool: 30 Oct 12th. Towednack: hundreds moving south Oct 15th. MJR. There was also 25 at Porthgwarra Oct 4th, 20 at Nanquidno Oct 9th, 20 at Trevose Oct 13th and 22 at Gwithian Oct 22nd. The species was more numerous and widespread than usual in the second winter period with a maximum of 20 at St Columb Sewage Works.

FIRECREST Regulus ignicapillus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. A potential breeding species. (Cf. probable breeding in Devon in 1985). C.24 birds were reported in the first winter period - the highest total since 1983. As usual most sightings concerned singles but there was two each at Loe Pool Jan 5th, Menheniot Jan 22nd, Trelissick Feb 4th, Rose mid-Feb and Penzance Mar 5th - 7th. There was no evidence of spring passage and none in summer. Autumn passage commenced with a single at Lizard Sept 14th. Four more birds were noted during Sept, but most moved through after Oct 7th. A total of c.125 birds was reported, the third best autumn passage on record (Only 1982 and 1988 were better). Regular reports and maximum numbers: Lizard: C.24 between Sept 14th and Nov 6th with maximum of 11 Oct 7th and seven Oct 18th. Cot Valley: c.14 between Sept 26th and Nov 14th with maximum of 10 Oct 27th. Porthgwarra: c.8 between Oct 4th and Nov 12th with maximum of four Nov 1st. St Levan: up to three daily Oct 8th - 27th. There was five at Penberth Oct 17th and three at Lamorna, St Loy, Zamora, Kennack Sands, Loe Pool, Penzance and Towednack with one or two at 28 other sites. Autumn passage apparently ceased in mid-Nov. A record second winter total of 26 birds was reported for Dec with many overwintering into 1990. The maximum by far was six at Loe Pool Dec 30th, but there was three at Trelissick Dec 21st, three at St Columb Dec 27th and three at Dec 31st. Two different birds were noted at Falmouth but the remaining sightings concerned singles. Loe Pool remains the top site in winter with records in each year of the last decade. Other regular sites include Lelant, Camel Estuary and Falmouth (seven winters), Marazion and Copperhouse (six) and Penlee Point (five).

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER - Muscicapa striata

Summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. There appears to have been a significant decrease in the number of pairs breeding in the county over the last few years. A similar decline was noted in the mid 1970's but there was an improvement later in the decade and in the early 1980's. Spring passage commenced with five at Dodman Point Apr 27th but no more until one at Housel Bay May 3rd. Seven singles were reported May 5th - 7th but these were succeeded by a blank fortnight. Most arrived May 20th - 22nd with several good concentrations. A total of 102 birds were reported by the end of the month including 30 at Trevose Head and 25 at Pentire May 21st and 12 at Trevail May 22nd. Several breeding reports were received but the general trend appears to be downwards.

117 LSP found none at St Just in Roseland and JD described it as very scarce at Trelissick. JCP reports the species in decline at Bude, with 1989 the worst year he could remember. All nests located in the last two years have been vandalised either by squirrels, jays or magpies. Autumn passage commenced with four at Drift Aug 18th and ended with one at Cot Valley Oct 13th. It was another poor movement with c.104 birds reported of which 66 (63%) moved through Sept 9th - 12th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Caerthillian: cl4 between Aug 28th and Oct 5th with maximum of six Sept 12th. Nanquidno: one or two regular Aug 28th to Oct 5th but four Sept 10th. Trevose Head: eight Sept 9th. Porthgwarra: eleven Sept 11th/12th. Lands End: eight Sept 11th. St Ives: five Sept 12th.

Church Cove, Lizard: one to three regular Sept 11th to Oct 2nd but four Oct 1st.

RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula parva

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Annual since 1980. Caerthillian: one Sept 24th. RB.BC.JAJ.SJM.ARP. Nanquidno: one Sept 28th/29th JH. et al. Porthgwarra: two Sept 30th. CCB.SL.MS. et al. Church Cove, Lizard: one Oct 3rd BC, two Oct 4th JMW. Cot Valley: juvenile Oct 9th - 19th. SMC.SPD.DSF.AMH. et al. Seven birds on typical dates. The county mainland total moves to c.84. Birds have arrived in: Jan - one, Aug - two, Sept - 22, Oct - 58 (69%) and Nov - one. Top sites are predictable, Porthgwarra - 29, followed by Nanquidno, Cot Valley and Lizard with nine each. Away from the Lands End and Lizard peninsulas, there is a small number of records from the north coast, but none on the south coast east of Constantine! PIED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula hypoleuca

Scarce summer resident. Breeds, passage migrant. One of the success stories of the 80's. First bred at Lanhydrock in 1966 but there were only six more instances of proven breeding up to 1980. At this site there was a gradual build-up in breeding numbers until 1986, but subsequently there has been a decrease. The cause of the decline is not known but seems inexplicable in view of the occupation of other sites in mid and east Cornwall. Seven pairs raised a total of 44 young at Lanhydrock this year (cf. a peak of 11 pairs rearing 65 young in 1986 and a low of 33 young in 1988). Elsewhere breeding was proved for the first time near Stratton, where males have been present annually since 1986. Other first-time sites were Golitha Falls where six young were reared, (males have previously been noted in 1985 and 1975) and at Cardinham where four young were raised. At least three pairs were present at Pencarrow Estuary and a male at Dunmere, but no proof of breeding. The first in spring were two males on territory at Lanhydrock Apr 26th. Elsewhere only nine birds were noted on spring passage - all between May 1st - 21st. Four were at Lizard May 3rd, two at Trevose Head May 7th and singles at St Loy, Cot and Pentire. Autumn passage commenced with a very early bird at Caerthillian Aug 2nd and ended with one at Gwithian Oct 11th. C.60 birds were reported from 15 localities. There were regular reports and maximum numbers as follows:

118 Caerthillian: singles on five dates Aug 2nd - Oct 1st but eight Sept 12th. Porthgwarra: singles Aug 20th - Sept 29th with three Sept 12th. Lands End: one or two Aug 20th - Sept 4th with four Aug 28th. Cot Valley: noted Aug 28th - Oct 5th with a peak of ten Sept 4th. c.15 birds involved. Church Cove, Lizard: one to three regular Sept 2nd - Oct 7th but four Sept 21st. Trevose Head: four Sept 9th. Pendeen: one to three regular Sept 19th - Oct 3rd with a peak of six Sept 25th. All other reports concerned single day sightings of one or two birds.

BEARDED TIT - Panurus biarmicus

An irruptive species which occurs as an occasional passage migrant and winter visitor in Cornwall.

Breeding has been proved in Devon and is a possibility in Cornwall.

1988 record Cargreen, Tamar Estuary: one Feb 6th per CFNHC Report 1988. Recorded in successive years on Tamar Estuary.

This bird takes the county mainland total c.180 - all but two since 1965.

LONG -TAILED TIT - Aegithalos caudatus

Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Very well reported again this year, including another exceptional autumn passage. Although first winter flocks were small no change in status was reported. Fifteen at Gerrans on Mar 4th was the only double-figure congregation noted during the first six months of the year. Autumn passage apparently commenced in late Sept and continued to Nov 12th with a peak in mid Oct. The largest flocks reported included 25 at Camel Estuary Sept 11th, 45 at Mount Edgcumbe Oct 10th, 28 at Penberth Oct 17th, 24 at Porthgwarra Oct 18th and 30 at St Columb throughout Nov/Dec. Elsewhere there were 15/20 at Lizard, Cot Valley, Pentewan, Duckpool and Lanivet. Apart from the St Columb birds there were Dec maxima of 14 at Penryn on 13th and 20 at Loe Pool on 22nd. MARSH TIT - Parus palustris Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Fairly common occurring in most suitable habitat east of Truro, but less common in the west, notably the Lands End peninsula which produces very few records. Slightly more reports received this year including five together at Lanivet during Nov and Dec. On the Lizard peninsula two were at Goonhilly Jan 12th, one at Croft Pascoe June 19th and at least three pairs bred at Loe Pool. In Penwith there was one at Lamorna Oct 8th and BP recorded one at Rospeath Dec 20th - his first there in twelve years. The Lamorna bird above and one at Porth Mear Oct 15th were presumed partial migrants, at least.

WILLOW TIT - Parus montanus

Scarce resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Occurs in damp scrubby woodland to the east and north of . Fully authenticated records of birds further west are exceptionally rare. The species undoubtedly suffered as a result of the succession of cold winters in the mid 1980's, but has also contracted in range due to extensive loss of habitat. Very few records were received for Bodmin Moor this year. At Upper Fowey Valley

119 two birds were noted on a number of occasions (cf. five pairs in 1987 and a peak of 20 pairs in 1976) PHA.EJC.RHo, two were at nearby Siblyback Reservoir Sept 11th RHo and one was at Crowdy Reservoir Sept 21st JAJ. In north Cornwall up to three were regular at Tamar Lakes SMC.IK. et al, two pairs bred at Bude, two were at Jan 4th IK and two were reported from Mar 27th PMcC. In mid-Cornwall RL states that it is common and breeding regularly at Breney Common, Redmoor and Treskilling. A pair frequented a Trethurgy garden Jan/Mar GRW.MW, one was near Roche Mar 23rd DMY and four were found at Pontsmill June 8th RL. At Redtye, Lanivet MB saw birds throughout the year with a maximum of four Apr 28th and two juveniles were noted June 20th. The Goss Moor produced only one record this year - a pair at Apr 23rd SMC, but the species is undoubtedly overlooked here.

COAL TIT - Parus ater

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Considerably more information received this year indicating a widespread and stable population. Breeding was reported from many localities and autumn passage was impressive. The first evidence of this movement was one at Cot Valley Aug 29th/30th, but no more were reported until four arrived at Nanquidno Sept 29th. Birds were then noted at most migration watch points until the last at Cot Nov 9th. A total of c.122 migrants were reported, many showing characteristics of the nominate Continental race * Parus ater ater'. This total indicated heaviest movement since at least 1957 when "considerable numbers" were recorded. Surprisingly large parties were noted including seven at Nanquidno Oct 1st, eight at Caerthillian Oct 7th, 16 at Penberth Oct 10th, 14 at Gwithian Oct 11th, eight at Porthgwarra Oct 12th, ten at Kenidjack the same day, twelve at Trevail Oct 15th and ten at Nanjizal Oct 18th. Parties of up to five were commonplace. Despite the foregoing, second winter records were sparse.

BLUE TIT - Parus caeruleus

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The few reports received indicate a healthy, stable population. What may have been an autumn invasion paralleling that of Coal Tit appears to have gone virtually un-noticed. Evidence of this includes a county record-sized flock of 93 at Mount Edgcumbe Oct 10th, closely followed by 75 at Porthgwarra Oct 17th. Unfortunately, there was no information from any other migration hot-spots.

GREAT TIT - Parus major

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Few records received but no reason to suspect any change in status. At Porthgwarra four possible migrants flew north Oct 10th and two flew south east Oct 17th.

The maximum anywhere this year was ten at Penryn Dec 13th.

NUTHATCH - Sitta europaea

Resident. Breeds. Common and widespread in suitable habitat in most parts of the county but scarce on the Lands End peninsula west of Drift and on the Lizard peninsula south of Culdrose. The species was reported from regular sites through the year and has maintained its status. In the far west there was one at Penzance Feb 24th, two at St Loy in spring and again Oct 9th/llth, one moving east at Towednack Apr 26th and two at Porthgwarra Oct 17th. 120 At Loe Pool JSG reports "no change" where a maximum of five were noted Dec 22nd. Elsewhere, maxima included eight at Luxulyan Apr 26th and ten at Lanhydrock Apr 26th and June 22nd.

TREECREEPER - Certhia familiaris

Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Like the previous species, the Treecreeper is common and widespread in suitable habitat in the county as far west as Loe Pool and Hayle During 1989, the species maintained its status well and there were more reports than normal from the far west of the county, some of which may relate to migrants. On the Lizard peninsula the following were reported: Gweek: one Mar 7th. Kennack Sands: one Apr 10th. From West Penwith the following were observed: Penberth: singles Jun 5th and Oct 16th to 22nd. Cot Valley: singles Aug 30th and Oct 4th, two Oct 12th to 30th and three Nov 7th. St Loy: two Oct 8th/9th. Trevail: one Oct 18th. Maxima elsewhere included ten at Clapper Bridge, Mar 12th and ten at Lanhydrock Apr 26th.

GOLDEN ORIOLE - Oriolus oriolus

Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring). This species may have been encountered much more commonly in the nineteenth century. Some evidence of this is provided by Penhallurick (1976) who lists a number of records including a mind-boggling flock of 40 at Trevethoe, Lelant in late Apr 1870! Early twentieth century records are more sporadic but may be due to a lack of documentation rather than a paucity of birds. Records have been annual since 1971. Trevose Head: male May 6th LW.SMC.PAM.RW. St Austell: female flew north May 15th PAM. St Enodoc: female May 16th AP. Marazion: one May 17th JFR. Cot Valley: female May 21st/22nd PHA.ALR. et al. Trevail: two (first summer male and a female) May 22nd SGR. Lanner: female May 22nd BKM. Porthgwarra: female May 28th JFR.ICW. An exceptional year. Only 1984, with 21 birds has proved better this century. These nine take the county mainland total since 1930 to c.86, (46 of which have been identified as males, 25 as females and 15 not sexed). Twenty-four have arrived in Apr, 51 (59%) in May, three in each of June and July, two in each of Aug and Sept and one in Oct.

Top sites are Skewjack (nine), Porthgwarra (six) and Lizard (five).

ISABELLINE SHRIKE - Lanius isabellinus

Very rare vagrant. Zennor: a first winter bird considered to be of the race. 'Lanius isabellinus phoenicuroides' Oct 27th to 31st DPo.JL.Mr & Mrs DPL. et al. A somewhat controversial bird which remains under consideration by BBRC, as does one at Nanquidno in 1985. RED-BACKED SHRIKE - Lanius collurio

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Has bred sporadically in Cornwall, but not since 1968. There are unpublished

121 records of birds in territory on Bodmin Moor in the 1970's, and in 1981 a male was noted for three days in June in the Upper Fowey Valley. There has been a catastrophic decline in the species status as a breeding bird in the UK and it may now have been completely extirpated. Cot Valley: first winter Sept 26th CCB.JAJ.JFR.RW. Porth Joke: first winter Sept 29th/30th SMC.PJD.RJH.DLT. The county mainland total since 1930 moves to c.65. Monthly breakdown: May - four, June - Seven, July - three, Aug - nine, Sept - 24, Oct - 17 and Nov - one.

Top sites are Porthgwarra - 16, St Just area - seven and Morwenstow - four.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE - Lanius excubitor

Scarce passage migrant. Occasional winter visitor. (Decreasing). None this year - the first blank since 1974! WOODCHAT SHRIKE - Lanius senator

Vagrant. Annual since 1979. Lands End: one Apr 22nd DSF.PHa. Gwithian: male May 20th/21st PAR.ALR. et al. Porthgwarra: one July 4th DSF. The county mainland total moves to c.40 - 26 (65%) of which have occurred in the last eleven years. Monthly breakdown reveals: April - four, May - 18, June - four, July - two, August - eight, September - two and October - two. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 13 (33%), Lizard - seven and Lands End/Sennen - four. A total of 23 have occurred west of Marazion/St Ives, nine at Lizard, six on the north coast, one at an unspecified site and none in the south of the county except one at in 1981!

JAY - Garrulus glandarius

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Influxes occurred in 1972, 1979 and 1981. A well-documented invasion involving thousands of birds occurred in 1983 (See "Birds in Cornwall 1983" pages 100-105). Once again, few records, received but apart from JSG's comment that the species was less evident at Loe Pool, there was no reason to suspect any change in status. None of the reports received indicated any spring or autumn passage, although birds at Penberth and St Loy in October were of interest. Five at Swanpool May 4th was the maximum seen together.

MAGPIE - Pica pica

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms small roosts outside the breeding season. Although the largest reported flocks were smaller than 1988, there was no indication of a change in status. JD found birds at Trelissick this year, after several years absence. The maximum were 25 at Kennal Vale sewage works June 26th, 30 roosting at Rame Farm Sept 21st and 25 at Penryn Sept 28th. One was taken by a Peregrine at St Columb Apr 20th.

CHOUGH - Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

Vagrant. Last bred in Cornwall in 1947. Subsequently, few were reported with the last known

122 endemic bird at Stem Cove, Mawgan Porth in June 1973. There have been sporadic records since, with the last in 1987. Padstow: one flew northwest May 15th VJH. Probables were noted at Polzeath July 6th and Poldhu September 1st, but neither was fully authenticated.

JACKDAW - Corvus monedula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms large roosts outside the breeding season, but these are poorly documented. 'Pied' birds are frequently reported. Very few records received but no reason to suspect any change in status. The only roost reported was at Trelissick where JD noted 3/400 during the winter. The largest autumn flocks were 500 at Breage Aug 24th, 220 flying north over Porthgwarra Oct 18th and 1000+ flying north over Tregathenan Nov 21st. Birds with varying amount of white in their plumage were reported from Godrevy, Newquay, and Mullion.

ROOK - Corvus frugilegus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Few flocks were reported, the largest being 500 at Breage August 24th and 250 at Loe Pool on an unspecified date. The following rookeries were reported during the year (with selected changes in the number of nests since 1975). For further information see the "BTO National Census of Rookeries 1975-76 - The Cornish Results" by R D Penhallurick in "Birds in Cornwall 1976" pages 87- 102. Bradford, Blisland: 24 nests (is this the Blisland site of 1984 - 14 nests and 1975 - 23?). Coronation Park, Wadebridg: 5 nests (new site?). Prideaux, Padstow: 22 nests (81 in 1975). : 5 nests (20 in 1975). Higher Harlyn: 13 nests. Penrose, : 8 nests (new site?). Porthcothan Mill: 48 nests (29 in 1988, established 1986). Denzill, St Mawgan: 72 nests (100 in 1983). Halloon, St Columb Road: 89 nests (67 in 1983, 14 in 1975). Springfield, St Columb: 16 nests. Lower , Gerrans: 21 nests (24 in 1988, 44 in 1986). Upper Rosevine, Gerrans: 11 nests (28 in 1987, 11 in 1975). , Gerrans: 8 nests (7 in 1988, 23 in 1986). Treloan: 13 nests (20 in 1988, 28 in 1987, 43 in 1986, 48 in 1975). Rosehill, Ladock: 13 nests. Park Farm, St Clement: 41 nests (101 in 1975). Trelissick: 106 nests (110 in 1986, 86 in 1975). Royal Duchy Hotel, Falmouth: 7 nests. Gweek: 40 nests (30 in 1983, 9 in 1975). , Loe Pool: 28 nests (43 in 1986, 68 in 1985). Old Vicarage, Mullion: 4 nests (2 in 1986 and 1985). Nansmellyn Road, Mullion: 6 nests Penhale, Mullion: 28 nests (15 in 1988, 2 in 1975). Clator Barton, Mullion: 19 nests. Trenance, Mullion: 13 nests (15 in 1988, 30 in 1984, 2 in 1975). Trenance Vean, Mullion: 37 nests. Meres Valley, Mullion: 18 nests (15 in 1988, 30 in 1986 and 1985, 21 in 1975). Tregathenan: 10 nests. Tregunna Castle, St Ives: 29 nests (22 in 1975). Carbis Bay: 23 nests (49 in 1975). Basically it seems that whilst numbers of nests at individual rookeries fluctuate from

123 year to year, the overall trend is of a fairly stable population with birds mobile and moving between local rookeries as conditions dictate.

CARRION CROW - Corvus corone

Abundant resident. Breeds. Very few reports received but no reason to suspect any change in status. The largest flocks recorded were 46 at Hayle Estuary February 5th and 33 at at Gerrans June 3rd. A bird with white wing bars was at Mullion NBE and one near Wadebridge was seen by DIJ to be eating a large toad.

RAVEN - Corvus corax

Resident. Breeds. Roosts have been located in the past but recent documention is sadly lacking. The large numbers noted in the area late in 1988 did not apparently overwinter. The largest first winter flocks were ten flying south west at Saltash Jan 14th, 21 flying north west at Lynher Estuary Jan 15th and 22 at Newlyn East Tip Feb 25th. Birds were noted in at least 30 areas during the breeding season with the majority north and east of Newquay/Dodman Point. At least ten pairs were proved to have bred and the majority of the others probably did so. Thiry-five at Bowethick Jan 17th was a large post-breeding congregation, but autumn flocks were smaller than normal. The only double-figure flock was 20 feeding on a sheep carcass at Davidstow Airfield Oct 9th. At To wan Head, Newquay a very tame bird was present Dec 26th in 1990.

STARLING - Sturnus vulgaris

Common resident. Breeds Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Eastern European and Scandinavian population of this species have undoubtedly diminished in recent years and this may account for a noticeable deterioration in the size of Cornish records. Traditional roosts at Crowdy, Par, Stithians and Marazion all appear to attract fewer birds. Locally the breeding population is described as stable at Falmouth by PMcC and very common at Penryn by DLB. The largest roost remains the vast congregation in the Lower Moor plantation at Crowdy. Hundreds of thousands were seen entering the plantation Jan 22nd. Apart from 50 at Par Jan 7th and up to 500 here in autumn there were no other estimates of roost size. As in 1988, DSF sighted a number of aberrant birds entering the Marazion roost in autumn. A leucistic bird noted Oct 25th may have been a Rose-coloured Starling. Seven others were noted; one with a couple of white tail feathers, one with wholly white tail, one leucistic with dark body and pale wings, two leucistic with pale bodies and wings, one almost completely white apart from a few dark wing feathers and one resembling an adult Rose-coloured Starling with black wings and head but white not pink body plumage and dark bill.

ROSE-COLOURED STARLING - Sturnus roseus

Vagrant. Paynters Lane End, Illogan: adult Oct 26th into 1990. VAS.DSF. et al. The county mainland total moves to c.33. Monthly breakdown reveals that they have occurred during June - six, July - one, August - seven, September - three, October - nine, November - one and six unspecified. Accepted by B.B.R.C.

124 HOUSE SPARROW - Passer domesticus

Common resident. Breeds. Local populations were very poorly documented prior to 1980. In many areas decreases were reported in the early 1980's, but there appears to have been a welcome upsurge in numbers over the last three or four years. This type of fluctuation has been noted in the county previously (See Penhallurick 1976 pages 326 - 328). • No decreases were reported during 1989. PJD considers that the species is spreading and becoming more common whilst CLB describes it as very common at Penryn. The largest flocks this year were 50 at Gerrans Aug 16th, 70 at Wheal Rodney in late Aug and 70 at Trevose Head Sept 12th. An albino was noted at in spring RFA.

TREE SPARROW - Passer montanus

Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. After predicting that this species was unlikely ever to breed in Cornwall owing to contraction in range and a general decrease in numbers nationally, one of the major ornithological surprises of the year was successful breeding by a pair at Lands End. Three young were reared. PH.DSF. Elsewhere: Callabarrett, Bodmin: one flew north May 27th GJC. Porthgwarra: two May 28th/29th ICW.JFR. These eight take the county mainland total to c.278 (c. 119 in 1976 alone). Top sites are Porthgwarra - 148 (53%), Wadebridge - 23, Nanquidno - 14 and Lands End - 12. Birds have arrived in every month of the year, but most have occurred in October - 119 (43%), May - 55 and November 28.

Records have been published for only 28 years but pre-1945 data is sketchy.

RED-EYED VIREO - Vireo olivaceus

Rare vagrant. Cot valley: one Sept 25th to Oct 1st MAS.IBS. et al. The ninth county mainland record - all since 1982. With the exception of one at Trevose Head in 1983 all have been located in the far west.

125 This is the earliest arrival to date. There have been four in September and five in October - all between September 25th and October 17th. Accepted by B.B.R.C.

CHAFFINCH - Fringilla coelebs

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roosts in winter. In the first winter period overwintering flocks included 300 at Gorran Haven and 200 at Par. Two hundred were also at Wheal Rodney, Turnaware and Trevose. Two hundred and fifty remained at Pentire January 6th and 500 were at Cury January 23rd. Two hundred at Respryn Mar 5th and 60 at Trevose Head Mar 7th may have been spring migrants but were probably late wintering birds. Few breeding season reports were received but PMcC noted a stable population at Falmouth and CLB reported it as very common and breeding well at Penryn. Autumn passage apparently commenced with eight south at Trevose Head September 30th and ended with 868 south at Porthgwarra Nov 13th. Passage was heaviest Oct 17th, Oct 23rd - 25th and Nov 1st and 13th. Maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: a total of 12,884 noted between Oct 9th and Nov 13th. The vast majority flew south and included 2,656 Oct 17th, 1,056 Oct 25th, 4,000 Nov 1st and 2,000 Nov 6th. (The 4,000 is a county record for a single day passage). Pentire: 800 south Oct 23rd. Trevose Head: 440 Oct 27th, 720 Nov 1st. Lizard: 320 Nov 1st. In common with other finches, second winter numbers were relatively small. The largest flocks reported were 300 at Porthwrinkle Dec 12th, 220 at Sheviock Dec 27th and 150 at Port Gaverne and St Just Airfield.

BRAMBLING - Fringilla montifringilla

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. Many of the birds reported at the end of 1988 failed to overwinter into 1989. A total of c.126 birds was reported to March 31st. There was no evidence of any spring passage. One to six were noted at thirteen sites. Large parties were reported at: Turnaware: 20 Jan 3rd and Feb 11th. Pillaton: ten Jan 8th. Maenporth: 20 Jan 15th. Redruth: 21 Jan 30th. Lanhydrock: 17 Mar 5th. Autumn passage commenced with the earliest ever; one at Caerthillian Aug 28th SB, but there was no more until one at St Loy on the more conventional date of Oct 11th. There followed an average movement involving c.194 birds with peaks Oct 25th, Nov 1st and Nov 12th/13th, ending abruptly Nov 17th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Lizard: c.30 birds between Oct 15th and Nov 13th with a maximum of ten Nov 1st. Porthgwarra: c.77 birds between Oct 17th and Nov 13th with maximum of ten Oct 17th, 11 Oct 25th and 26 Nov 1st. St Just Airfield: ten Oct 25th. Trevose Head: c.41 birds between Oct 27th and Nov 12th with maximum of 16 Nov 1st and 20 Nov 12th. One to four birds were reported from a further 20 localities. The grand total of just six birds in the second winter period once again illustrated the unpredictable nature of the species occurrence in the county. Singles were at Siblyback, St Minver, Holmbush and Fal Estuary with two at Lanhydrock.

126 SERIN - Serinus serinus

Vagrant. A potential breeding species (cf. recent successes in south and east Devon). Long Rock: one Apr 18th JFR. Towednack: female/immature May 1st MJR. Porthgwarra: one May 22nd DJA.ADC.PASP. male Nov 13th SMC.MB. The county mainland total moves to c.55 involved in 35 occurrences - all since 1965. Monthly breakdown; February - seven, March - five, April- three, May - three, June - one, September - two, October - nine, November - 18, December - seven. Top sites are Porthgwarra - 12, Marazion - nine, Lelant - seven and Camborne - four.

GREENFINCH - Carduelis chloris

Common resident. Breeds. Winter visitor. Forms roosts in winter. Although poorly reported in the past this is a species which has increased quite dramatically in recent years probably as a result of the vast number of artificial feeding stations provided in the county. Few reports were received for the first half of the year but did include a couple of good-sized flocks. At Par a roost noted throughout January attracted a peak of 200 birds on 12th/17th. Two hundred were located at Jan 15th and there was 40 at Trelissick and Camel Estuary. Of the breeding season PMcC reports a stable population, possibly increasing at Falmouth and CLB indicates that it is a common bird, breeding well at Penryn. Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Trevose Head Sept 9th and ended with 15 flying south at Bude Nov 23rd. It was the best movement since at least 1983 with maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: a total of c.1946, most flying south, between Oct 4th and Nov 13th with maximum of 300 Nov 1st and 800 Nov 6th. Trevose Head: 150 Oct 24th, 270 Nov 1st. Lizard: 80 Nov 12th. In the second winter period the only flock reported was 150 at Siblyback Nov 30th, decreasing to 50 Dec 3rd.

GOLDFINCH - Carduelis carduelis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The abnormally mild first winter weather induced many more than usual to remain in the county and undoubtedly assisted the species to survive in greater numbers than normal. This was reflected by BP who saw more than for many years. In the first winter period 60 were noted at Stepper Point Jan 16th, 55 at Cargreen Jan 24th and 100 at Lizard Mar 2nd. 10/20 were noted at Pentire, Gerrans, Pentewan and Par. There was no evidence of spring passage. Post-breeding flocks were sighted throughout the county and there was a widespread autumn passage which apparently ended Nov 1st. Maximum numbers at this time included: Drift Reservoir: 57 Aug 18th. Lizard: 200 Aug/Sept. Trevose Head: 110 Sept 25th. Near Sennen: 60 Sept 13th. Colliford Reservoir: 200 Sept 17th, 100 Oct 15th. Camborne: 50 Sept 20th. Porthgwarra: 90 Sept 9th, 98 Oct 18th. St Levan: 60 Oct 13th.

127 Hatt: 70 Oct 20th. Second winter flocks were unexpectedly small with maximum of 25 at Cargreen Dec 26th and the same number at Pontsmill Dec 28th.

SISKIN - Carduelis spinus

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was not suspected in Cornwall until 1970 and not proved until 1984. Small numbers bred at Smallacombe 1984 - 1988 and was probable at Halvana 1985 - 1988. Whilst there was no definite proof at either site in 1989 birds were present at both sites during the year and breeding seems likely. A pair bred at Dunmere for the first time rearing four young. GJC. (Singles had been present here in May 1987 and breeding predicted). Elsewhere three were at Park Wood, Pencarrow May 21st and this is another potential breeding site, as are similar plantations in the Bodmin, Wadebridge and Ladock districts. Prior to 1970, Siskins were only rarely reported in winter, but it can now be looked for with some confidence at several regular sites, and is becoming more frequent as a garden visitor to the ultra-attractive red peanut bags. Autumn passage 1988 was the heaviest ever and this was reflected in the record total of c.326 in this year's first winter period, at 31 localities. Most reported concerned less than ten birds but large flocks were noted at: Clapper Bridge, Pillaton: 100 from 1988 to Jan 8th. Trago Mills: 11 Jan 8th. Pentewan: 50 Jan 14th. Pontsmill: 20 Jan 22nd. Saltash: 25 Jan 25th. Redannick, Truro: 12 Mar 2nd. Holmbush: 14 Mar 14th to Apr 1st. The vast majority were noted in the mid, north and east of the county but a few were seen in the far west, particularly in February when food-seeking birds came to gardens. At Hayle up to ten were noted daily until Apr 6th, three were at Perranuthnoe Jan 19th, eight at Canonstown Feb 9th to Mar 26th, a male at Wheal Rodney Feb 13th to 16th and two at Penzance Feb 22nd. There was no evidence of spring passage this year. In autumn the first was at Lanhydrock Sept 19th. It proved the fourth best autumn passage on record with a total of c817 birds reported. Numbers were very small until Oct 8th, but in the ensuing two weeks passage was much heavier. Very few were noted after Oct 27th and passage ceased abruptly Nov 13th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Porthgwarra: total of 262 between Oct 1st and Nov 6th with maximum of 32 Oct 10th, 64 Oct 17th and 90 Oct 27th. Cot Valley: total of 83 between Oct 9th and 30th with maximum of 35 Oct 15th. Falmouth: 60 Oct 15th to 25th. Caerthillian: 27 Oct 22nd. Penberth: 42 Oct 23rd. Pentire: 35 Oct 23rd. Trevail: 27 Oct 27th. Trevose Head: 29 Nov 1st. Unlike 1988, almost all of these birds passed through without stopping. There were only two reports for the second winter period: 13 at Gunnislake and a female at Holmbush Dec 20th.

LINNET - Carduelis cannabina

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. This species is in decline nationally owing to loss of habitat and through the effects of weedkillers on food sources. Generally, this decline has been noticed throughout Cornwall, although PMcC reports a significant increase in the Falmouth area this year. In the first winter period flocks of 100/199 were reported from , Par, Lizard

128 and Stepper but larger flocks were noted as follows: Turnaware: 300 Jan 3rd. Falmouth: 200 Jan 19th. Pentire: 250 Jan 20th increasing to 300 Feb 11th. Rosudgeon: 200 Mar 2nd. Spring passage was very light with maxima of 150 at Gannel Estuary Apr 24th and 20 at Predannack May 27th. Autumn flocks were about the average of recent years. Passage apparently commenced with 38 at Predannack Aug 2nd and ended with 100 at West Pentire Nov 5th. The largest parties were noted at the usual sites - Rame Head, Porthgwarra and Trevose Head Maximum included: Rame Head: 250 Sept 2nd to 300 Sept 25th and 400 Oct 1st. Trevose Head: 300 Oct 7th, 370 Nov 1st. Porthmeor: 200 Oct 9th. Porthgwarra: 209 Oct 18th. December congregations were small with 60 at St Columb the only noteworthy occurrence.

TWITE - Carduelis flavirostris

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Several reports were received but none was considered to be fully authenticated. A full description is required for this species.

REDPOLL - Carduelis flammea

Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeding was first confirmed in Cornwall in 1968 and numbers have fluctuated annually since. Most breeding season records derive from the conifer plantations of Bodmin Moor and similar habitat near Bude and at Hustyn and Great Grogley Downs, near Wadebridge. Checking of plantations in the Ladock and Truro areas might prove rewarding. This year a pair was proved breeding for the first time at Wilsey Downs PMcC. Elsewhere one or two were present at Great Grogley in May and June, one was at Butter Tor May 29th and there was at least ten at Halvana June 20th. Ten were noted in the first winter period - the most since 1979. Six of these were at Swanpool Jan 14th with two remaining to 22nd GRW.MW.MS, two were at Cargreen Jan 24th JMC and two flew east over Carnsew Feb 20th DSF. In spring three flew south over St Columb Major Mar 29th SMC and singles flew over Trevose Head Apr 9th, Apr 23rd and May 4th with two May 21st PAM.SMC. One at Bodmin Road August 5th GJC may have been a local bird, thus autumn passage commenced with three at Rame Head Sept 24th SCM. A total of 26 birds was reported, passage ending with two at Lizard Nov 6th. In addition to the birds above there was: Nanquidno: one Sept 30th DSF. Tamar Lake: one Oct 14th, three Oct 17th IK.EG. St Eval: three flew south Oct 15th JDB.SMC.CE.ABR. St Ives: one Oct 15th DSF. Crowdy Reservoir: five Oct 16th SMC.ABR. Cot Valley: one Oct 24th NA. Porthgwarra: two Oct 25th DSF.RJF.ASG. : two Nov 1st SCM. Redruth: one flew west Nov 5th BKM. None was noted in the second winter period (cf. very low numbers Siskin). 1987 Hustyn: pair bred rearing three young GJC.

129 COMMON CROSSBILL - Loxia curvirostra

An irruptive species which is not recorded annually in Cornwall. Bred in the county in 1985 and probably did so in 1987. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Dunmere: two Jan 1st GJC. Near Lanivet: 13 Feb 23rd GJC. These were not unexpected after the excellent autumn passage in 1988, but the lack of records later in the year was very disappointing. This reflects a very poor year for the species throughout the UK - failure of the cone crop would appear to have been the cause. 1988 Whacker, : 11 Dec 11th per CFNHC. (The 1988 year total moves to 115). 1986 Bodmin: 16 July 7th reducing to six by 23rd GJC. Polbrock: 13 July 31st GJC. Porth Reservoir: one Aug 30th GJC. (The 1986 year total moves to 114).

BULLFINCH - Pyrrhula pyrrhula

Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Winter visitor. The species was more widely reported this year and the population is evidently stable. Up to three were noted at many localities in the first half of the year, but the maximum was five at Penryn Mar 10th and up to four at St Minver. Autumn passage was rather lighter this year but most birds probably went unrecorded. At Porthgwarra there were regular reports Sept 13th to Oct 18th with a maximum of five Oct 9th. Six were at Trevail Oct 15th and ten near Lanivet Oct 23rd, but only ones and two elsewhere.

In the second winter period, six at Lanivet Dec 8th was easily the largest flock.

HAWFINCH - Coccothraustes coccothraustes Occasional visitor with records at all times of the year. Has bred in Devon as far west as the county border but is not known to have done so in Cornwall. Skewjack: one May 20th BKM.RW. The county mainland total moves to c.69 (not including obscure records of "several" in 1829 and 'a family party' in 1958). This is only the second-ever record for May. October with 16 and March with 13 are the top months.

LAPLAND BUNTING - Calcarius lapponicus

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor. Inland records are very rare. None in the first half of the year for the first time since 1983. For the fourth successive year autumn passage commenced Sept 9th. The total of c.51 birds was lower than 1988 and 1987 but nevertheless was the fourth best on record. Trevose Head: singles Sept 9th and Oct 10th but eight Sept 30th SMC.RS. Nanjizal: one Sept 12th, two Oct 17th and three Oct 18th DSF.AMH.JFR. et al. Rame Head: one Sept 24th SCM. Lands End: two Sept 25th, one to 29th ICW. Porthgwarra: noted Sept 30th to Nov 13th with maximum of five Oct 17th PJB.SBi. PE.JH. et al. Nanquidno: up to three Sept 30th to Oct 21st DSF.DL.CCB. et al. Lizard: singles Oct 1st to 8th and Nov 3rd to 18th but three Nov 14th BC.SJM.ARP. Cape Cornwall: one Oct 4th JFR.

130 St Levan: two Oct 10th - 19th AMH.EAF.JPS. et al. Gunwalloe: one Oct 12th ARP. Reskajeage: seven Oct 14th DSF. Kelsey Head: one Oct 14th SMC. East Pentire, Newquay: one Oct 15th JH. Penberth: one Oct 18th AMH. et al. Trevail: one Oct 18th DSF. St Just: one Oct 20th AMH. et al. Porthmeor, Zennor: one Oct 22nd DSF. Pentire: one Oct 23rd EG. Mullion: one Oct 24th JL. The county mainland total moves to c.765 - all since 1960. Of these, 542 (71%) have occurred in the last five years. Rame Head scores again but still no records along the south coast between Portwrinkle and Lizard. Most visited sites have been Porthgwarra - 18 years, West Pentire/Kelsey Head - 11 years, Trevose Head - ten years and Reskajeage - nine years.

SNOW BUNTING - Plectrophenax nivalis

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). Rare winter visitor. After the record passage of autumn 1988 a good winter flock could be anticipated with some confinence but the size of the flock at Pentire exceeded expectations and proved to be a record-breaker. There was also four in spring. Autumn passage was the poorest since 1984, with only c.25 birds at twelve sites, whilst the sole second winter flock had dissipated very substantially by the end of the year. First winter/spring: St Agnes: male Jan 4th SCW. Pentire: 65 Jan 14th gradually decreasing to 60 Jan 20th, 45 Feb 5th and 43 Feb 27th GB.SMC.AL.DLJ. et al. Gwithian: one Feb 14th to Mar 15th CNT.PAR. Perranporth: three Mar 27th RHa. Trevose Head: female Apr 8th DC. Autumn/second winter: St Ives: singles Oct 6th and Oct 28th to Nov 5th AH.DSF. et al. West Pentire: one Oct 8th, two Oct 29th, four Nov 10th to 14th and two to 20th GHT.JD. et al. Trevose Head: one Oct 9th, two Oct 25th/27th GW.ACS. et al. Hayle Estuary: singles Oct 15th to 21st and Nov 12th to Dec 9th DSF.IG. et al. Duckpool: one Oct 17th IK. Gwithian: singles Oct 20th to 25th, and Nov 7th to 16th, 15 Dec 10th but only two 31st PAR.REW.CNT. et al. Porthgwarra: one Oct 25th to November 1st DSF. St Eval: one Oct 29th SMC. Trevail: one Oct 31st DSF. et al. : four Nov 8th MJB. Newquay: one Nov 15th to 18th SMC.LW. Kelsey Head: one Nov 29th RDP.

YELLOWHAMMER - Emberiza citrinella

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The species has definitely declined in many districts within the county during the 1980's and despite last years optimism several observers reiterated earlier comments concerning this decrease. LSP described it as uncommon, in fact quite rare in the Roseland district. BP is very concerned for the species future in the Marazion area, where he states that it is "just hanging on", but for how long with hedge flailing in June! EGe still considers it very scarce at Lizard.

131 CNT reports that during June he visited all the listed mining sites in SW 550/660- 290/390 south of Camborne. Of over 125 sites visited only at Hayle and the extensive mining area to the east of Leedstown held birds in good numbers. Southern sites such as held few or none at all. Conversely RL describes it as widespread and PMcC reports a stable population at Falmouth. This years first winter peaks were the largest congregations in the county for at least 15 years and augur well for the future. Breeding season reports were quite encouraging but flocks in autumn and the second winter period were smaller than in 1988. Maximum numbers: Amy Downs, Pillaton: 150 roosting Jan 1st. 156 Jan 8th RWG.EG. St Agnes: 20 Jan 1st. Restormel: 20 Mar 2nd. Rame/Penlee: 35 May 7th. Cot Valley: 30 Sept 17th. Pentewan: 25 Dec 31st. Other autumn migrants included a total of 14 at Porthgwarra Oct 9th to Nov 1st. Fifteen at St Eval Oct 15th, 12 at Lands End Nov 1st and 12 at Morwenstow Dec 6th.

CIRL BUNTING - Emberiza cirlus

Rare resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant. Formerly much more common, there has been a protracted decline over the last twenty years. In 1967, up to 15 pairs were located on breeding sites in the south east of the county and despite poor coverage in subsequent years birds were still present at 15 sites in the county in 1975. This local decrease is part of a general contraction in range in the UK and it appears that the species will continue to move inexorably towards extinction as a breeding bird in Cornwall. It is perhaps surprising that whilst the nucleus in south east Cornwall has disappeared, former periphal pockets of birds at Perranporth and in the Falmouth area contine to maintain a tenuous toehold. Perranporth area: site one - male Jan 16th and Apr 7th DFS. Site two - male Apr 20th RHa. Falmouth area: Site one - male Jan 19th. May have bred, with a pair noted April/May and rumours of up to three birds in the second winter BC.JMW. Site two - pair nest building Apr 12th, male June 13th JMW.ML. Trevose Head: a migrating male flew in from south and sang for about an hour before continuing north May 6th SMC.PAM.RW. Viverdon Down: : male Nov 7th EG. Coverack: male Dec 29th TRE.

ORTOLAN BUNTING - Emberiza hortulana

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn) Porthgwarra: one May 7th CCB.JFR. Lizard: female May 23rd JMW, one Sept 11th SJM. Cot Valley: immature Aug 31st DJB, two Sept 3rd BKM.RW. (only the two involved?) Dodman Point: one Sept 5th IG. Trevose Head: immature Sept 25th SMC. Nanquidno: two Sept 25th JFR. Penberth: male Sept 27th GPGR. Other reports received but lacking in conclusive detail Another excellent year, these ten take the county mainland total to c.69, 44 (64%) of which have occurred in the last six years. Two in spring is unprecedented - previous records were singles in May 1987 and April 1984. Monthly breakdown: April - one, May - three, August - four, September - 46 (67%) and October - 15.

132 Top sites are: Porthgwarra - 11, Sennen - ten, Nanquidno - eight, Lizard/Caerthillian - seven and Trevose Head - four. The Cot and Penberth records are the first at those sites and the Dodman bird is the first anywhere on the south coast between Rame Head and Lizard Point.

LITTLE BUNTING - Emberiza pusilla

Rare vagrant. No definite records but a probable flew south east at Higher Bosistow, St Levan Oct 17th AMH.KT.PG. and presumably the same bird seen flying south at Porthgwarra a short time later JH. It was heard calling on both occasions and some plumage detail was noted but neither set of observers felt that they had acquired sufficient detail to make a fully justified claim. 1987 record Sennen: one Apr 16th HPKR. Accepted by B.B.R.C. The sixth accepted county mainland record.

REED BUNTING - Emberiza schoeniclus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Reports were received from most parts of the couny during the year but numbers do appear to be down on those of ten years ago. In the first winter period there was maxima of 40 at Loe Pool Jan 12th and 20 at Cargreen Feb 16th. No other flocks in excess of six were reported. There was a paucity of breeding season records and autumn passage proved to be higher than the last two years. A total of c.95 birds was reported between July 26th and Dec 2nd with maxima as follows: Trevose Head: six birds between Sept 25th and Nov 18th. Porthgwarra: c.36 birds between Oct 9th and Nov 13th with maximum of 20 Oct 23rd. Par: 15 Oct 11th. St Eval: 25 Oct 15th. West Pentire: 8 Nov 20th. None was reported after Dec 2nd.

CORN BUNTING - Miliaria calandra

Resident. Breeds. Flocks outside of the breeding sason. Cornwall remains the stronghold for this species in the south west, with most found along a narrow coastal strip in the north of the county between Rumps Point and Godrevy Head. A very steep decline in the national population is reflected in continually reducing numbers in Cornwall. This trend appears to be irreversible and is particularly unfortunate because until recently the local population appeared to be stable. At Lizard there has been a decline since at least 1982 reaching rock bottom in 1987. After two in 1988, there was only one record this year, a single at Loe Pool Jan 17th ML. This decline has been paralleled at Lands End where as many as 15 pairs were reported breeding as recently as 1985. In 1988 two males were located but this year no reports were received. Rather better coverage was reported along the north coast, c.50 pairs/singing males were noted between Godrevy and Rumps Points. Of particular interest were eight singing males at North Cliffs, four singing males at St Eval, seven singing males at St Mawgan Airfield and 14 singing males at Trevose Head. Inland there was a male at Carnon Downs May 6th and July 9th. Several excellent flocks were noted outside the breeding season: Harlyn Bay: eight Jan 20th.

133 North Cliffs: ten March. Polreath Road, Redruth: eight Mar 14th. Portreath: 15 Mar 27th. St Eval Airfield: 22 Apr 8th, 31 Oct 15th. 23 Apr 23rd. Near Padstow: 23 Apr 23rd. Trevose Head: 35 May 4th, 20 Nov 1st. Porth Joke: 15 Oct 1st.

EXOTICA

WHITE PELICAN

Loe Pool: one Jan 31st JBB SB.

BLACK SWAN

Gerrans Bay: two flew east Apr 8th PAM. Hayle Estuary: four Sept 3rd to 10th, two to 20th EGe et al.

Gunwalloe: four Sept 7th EGe.

BAR-HEADED GOOSE

Colliford: adult Jan 10th AHJH.

MUSCOVY DUCK

Stithians: one Mar 31st and July 10th CNT.

RUDDY SHELDUCK

Maenporth Pool: one Jan 23rd SMC.

WHITE-CHEEKED (BAHAMA) PINTAIL

Trenance Lake, Newquay: one from 1988 throughout the year BTSC. Par: one from 1988 to Mar 10th RL.

Porth Reservoir: one Nov 1st SMC (The Trenance bird).

SCARLET MACAW

Hayle: two Oct 3rd RFH.

PARAKEET

Bodmin: one flew south west Dec 21st GJC.

COCKATIEL

Camborne: one June 19th CNT.

BUDGERIGAR

Camborne: one blue Mar 20th, one yellow June 20th, CNT.

LOVEBIRD sp.

Camborne: one June 25th CNT.

134 B.B.R.C. Decisions

1989

The following records have all been rejected by B.B.R.C.

Ring-necked Duck Lower Tamar Lake Aug 29th Black Kite Zennor Sept 25th Semipalmated Sandpiper Copperhouse Nov 11th Curlew (race N.a. orientalis) Hayle May 23rd Little Bunting Perranporth Feb 26th/27th

1988

Blue-winged Teal Marazion & Stithians Res. Both accepted Kenidjack, Porthtowan & Woodchat Shrike second Lizard bird All accepted

The following records which did not appear in 'Birds in Cornwall' were all rejected:

Little Shearwater Porthgwarra Aug 13th Little Shearwater Pendeen Sept 12th Little Shearwater St Ives Oct 17th Bonaparte's Gull St Ives Oct 9th

1985

Siberian Thrush Lansallos & Falmouth Both rejected

135 THE COMMON BIRD CENSUS 1989

HILL PARK TO CLIFF PARK COASTAL GRASSLAND/SCRUB

Introduction

The survey set out to identify the importance of the area for breeding birds in order to plan future habitat management, particularly scrub clearance.

Methods

The survey started at the beginning of April 1989 and consisted of nine visits, lasting approximately 3i hours, over nine weeks. The visits were carried out usually between 8.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. when bird song is at its height. Observations were recorded on 'visit maps' labelled A to I: details of weather, time, date and observer were recorded. The observer was Derek Lord for this area. A similar sized area was surveyed by Graham Bellamy from Cliff Park to Lundy Bay as part of the same survey. British Trust for Ornithology 'Common Bird Census' codes and methods were used throughout. Using binoculars and clipboard, the species maps were completed on each visit noting all coastal grassland/scrub nesting species seen or heard.

The results, using the BTO's methods, were subsequently transferred to 'Species Maps'. These were analysed and the numbers of breeding birds estimated. The results were summarised on each species map and also in this report.

Results

(i) Hill Park to Pentire Haven Valley

Hill park is a field within the tenancy with a clump of gorse roughly in the centre and a clump in the NW corner. Minver Hill on its eastern half is a steep hill with thin soil at its top. The bottom of the hill is a wet area. There is a small clump of tamarisk at the SE corner. The hill is a patchwork of gorse, blackthorn and bramble.

The western side of the hill is a rabbit grazed turf with clumps of scrub, mainly gorse. Numerous rabbits were seen during this period and foxes bred on the border between Minver Hill and Hill Park.

Nesting birds in this area included wren (8 pairs), linnet (4 pairs), whitethroat (4-6 pairs), dunnock (10 pairs), blackbird (3 pairs). Possibly one pair of stonechat (not confirmed). Skylark (2 pairs) nested on bordering farm land. Other birds seen during the period were magpie, house sparrow, robin, great tit, blue tit, wood pigeon, and cuckoo. Whimbrel flew over en passage, while other passage birds, in the scrub, included chiff chaff and willow warbler. Additionally this is an important hunting area for buzzard and kestrel.

(ii) Pentire Haven Valley

This coastal, small, valley consists mainly of thick scrub, a mixture of blackthorn, bramble and gorse, with some tamarisk in rows on the borders of an old garden. The coastal end is a short sward grassland with gorse patches and dense wind pruned blackthorn. A stream runs through the valley. A healthy rabbit population was noted throughout the period with numerous young. Foxes also breed in this valley.

A pair of carrion crows nested in the tamarisk along with two pairs of Woodpigeon and a pair of chaffinch. Blue tits nested in a hole in the tamarisk trunk and in a hedge bank hole (2 pairs). A single pair of great tits also nested in the old garden area. Other birds, nesting in the scrub, were blackbirds (5 pairs), dunnock (7 pairs),

136 whitethroat (3-4 pairs), linnet (1 pair), robin (4 pairs), stonechat (1 pair) wren (6 pairs).

5 pairs of skylark nested in the surrounding fields. Pheasants probably nested, or attempted to, in the garden.

Other birds observed in the area during the survey included goldcrest, magpie, goldfiinch, buzzard, kestrel and song thrush.

Wheatear, chiff chaff and willow warbler were noted en passage along with a spotted flycatcher on 11th May. There was a female redstart on 18th May. A turtle dove passed through at the end of May.

Pied wagtail were occasionally seen near the spring in the field seaward of the valley.

(iii) Tan Furze to Round Hill

This is an exposed area of grassland which is wind pruned and grazed by rabbits and some sheep. On the Tan Furze grassland there are patches of low gorse. There is a wet flush on the southern side of Round Hill with some tamarisk at the SE corner where the flush originates. Round Hill has patches of gorse on the seaward side with dense gorse, blackthorn scrub on the sheltered side.

Nesting birds here included linnet (6 pairs), robin (1 pair), dunnock (4 pairs), blackbird (3 pairs), stonechat (1 pair), and wren (4 pairs). A whitethroat and a pair of shellduck both showed an interest in Round Hill but did not nest there.

Two pairs of skylark nested in neighbouring fields. Other birds seen in the area were meadow pipit, rock pipit, corn bunting, buzzard and kestrel.

(iv) High Park and the Points Run

This area is a grassland area with very little scrub, just a small patch of low, thin gorse in the SE corner of the Points Run. There is also a little blackthorn on the western edge of the Points.

This, more exposed open area, attracts different species. Notably a pair of wheatear nested on the SW slope of the Point, probably in an old rabbit hole: 4 fledglings were recorded. 2 possibly 3 pairs of meadow pipits bred, along with a small colony of linnets which favoured the gorse area. 1 pair of ravens bred on the SW of P. Point with another possible pair on the northern side. The points Run was particularly important for skylarks with up to 8 pairs using the field.

Both blackbird and dunnock were seen in the gorse patch but did not nest. Other birds seen in this area during the CBC were jackdaw, kestrel, peregrine falcon and rock pipit.

Summary

The area surveyed was found important for several breeding birds. In the scrub areas wren and dunnock were the commonest species with blackbird and robin in the more sheltered areas. The area is important for breeding whitethroat and a small number of stonechat. Blue tits, great tits, carrion crow, chaffinch, woodpigeon and possibly pheasant nested in small numbers only in the Pentire Glaze Valley. This small valley also proved to be important for passerine birds of passage. The open area of the Points proved important for skylarks, meadow pipits and linnets. This area was also the only place within the Lundy Bay properties where breeding wheatear was recorded.

137 References

MARCHANT J (COMMON BIRDS CENSUS INSTRUCTIONS' BRITISH TRUST FOR ORNIGHOLOGY (1983)

Derek Lord. Graham Bellamy.

THE CORNISH CHOUGH - SOME OBSERVATIONS

By Anthony Archer - Lock

From 1963 onwards I made several tape - recordings with running commentaries of the last pair of Choughs at their ancestral nesting cave in Stem Cove, Mawgan Porth, and listening to their evocative cries as I write, it is hoped that readers might enjoy a few comments arising from these recordings and photographs.

Part of the recordings is in the B.B.C. archives, under reference number MP 25192, and was used on the Today programme on 5th October 1967, introduced by Jack de Manio prior to an interview with the late Reverend J.E. Beckerlegge. Mr de Manio described the calls as petulant; little realising the delightful character of the species.

From a photograph of the hen flying to her nest in 1963, the current logo of the C.B.W.P.S. was created by Mr R.D. Penhallurick.

Many hours were spent crouching on a cliff ledge beside the nesting cave during April and May 1963, the birds being totally confiding. Their excitement whilst nest building amounted to comic - ecstasy. On occasions I wondered if the hen, who must have been at least twenty years of age, had become absent - minded, for she would fly in with a sprig, then fly out with another, dropping it upon the beach. It was wild, noisy, joyful activity all day long in that secluded cove.

A week into May and the tempo had changed completely. Now the cock, twenty feet from me, spent long periods dozing or preening on a small triangular shelf outside the crevice whilst his mate brooded. Sometimes he would wander off, then return to accompany her for a break. One day towards the end of May he called from a slope across the way; the hen emerged at once and flew silently to him and a few moments later, from inside the fissure came the feeble cry of a young. Sadly, a week later, the pair had lost all interest, so any nestlings must surely have perished.

On the 15th April 1964, a wild day of mists, spume and huge seas, I spent the afternoon inside the dripping cave, my commentary becoming ever more melancholy, for there was no sign of the birds, prompting fears that the living emblem of Cornwall had finally gone; but suddenly through the wailing of the gulls on the storm, came those evocative cries and a shout of joy 'They're here, they're here, the Cornish Chough lives on'. However there was no interest in nesting activity. A strange event occurred on the 3rd February 1966. The Choughs were first encountered feeding on a ploughed headland field. I spent the afternoon on a ridge overlooking the cave but the Choughs did not come home until late. They sat around, preened or waddled on the slopes, seemingly winding down before going in to roost. So close were their ties that whenever one wandered out of sight the other would walk to keep it in view. The light was failing fast when, with cries, they took wing, played together briefly, then suddenly rose high over the cliff - edge and flew directly far inland, their voices gradually fading until they were mere dots in the sky. Where did they go to roost, one wonders?

One afternoon the Choughs were set upon by a flock of some twenty Jackdaws, the former obviously regarding the episode as playful exuberance, side - stepping the

138 buffetting with consumate ease, free of all resentment. The Society's founder, Colonel B.H. Ryves, who spent so many years observing the Chough, states in his book 'Bird Life in Cornwall' that Choughs never seek the company of Jackdaws by design.

That was certainly not the case in the unique circumstances of the last surviving Chough, which was frequently to be seen consorting with Jackdaws.

In the spring of 1972 I took cine film of the bird repeatedly stooping through a flock of Jackdaws high above the cliffs.

Whether our last pair of Cornish Choughs were exceptional I do not know.

They were totally delightful and a perfect example to humanity. Sometime in March 1967 one bird was found decapitated, perhaps by a Peregrine. I did once watch a Kestrel dive down upon one of the feeding Choughs, knocking it over, apparently without injury.

For over six years the lone Chough patrolled between Newquay and Park Head, incessantly searching the cliffs and coves. The activity suggests that it was the male, and one wonders whether he sought his mate of old or perhaps another wife. I last saw this bird on a day of great storm, the 11th April 1972. It was perched far below me on a ledge flicking its tail and wings as it called; all voice lost on the spume - laden tumult.

Mr T.O. Darke, author of 'The Cornish Chough' (1971) gives the latest recorded date at 17th June 1973 (in the booklet 'Operation Chough').

Shall we see the Chough again? Operation Chough and the diligent research by Mr Richard Meyer at Glasgow University, intend that we shall. Purists and evolutionists may hesitate but success will surely receive appreciation from benefitting generations.

4 Glen wood Road, Mannamead, Plymouth PL3 5NH.

A STUDY OF ACROCEPHALUS WARBLERS AT MARAZION MARSH 1989

LONG ROCK REED-BED 50 08'N, 5 30'W

Birds ringed

Sedge Warbler

Returned from Jul Aug Sept Oct Total previous years Adults 5 6 11 1 Juveniles 20 78 26 1 125

Reed Warbler Adults 13 5 18 5 Juveniles 27 78 15 1 121

A welcome increase in the numbers of Sedge Warblers trapped during the autumn was encouraging although totals are still about 50% down on past years results.

Twenty juveniles trapped in July were likely to have been local hatchings and compared very favourably with a mere five last July.

139 Reed Warblers seem to have returned in spring from Africa in smaller numbers, and this is reflected in the total of only five ringed in previous years.

The total of 121 juveniles trapped was the lowest for thirteen years. A Cuckoo present around the reed-beds in June may have been the culprit.

The oldest Reed Warbler returned from Africa was three years and the lone Sedge two years.

The glorious sunny weather was rather too good for trapping birds. Clear nights and heavy dews following at dawn mean that many birds pass over south without stopping, and those that remain are difficult to catch with nets, heavy with dew, showing up in the sunshine. A juvenile Sedge Warbler was caught on 26th September with tail feathers only 2/3rds the normal length and of haphazard growth.

An Aquatic Warbler trapped on 4th August is my earliest date ever. Another was caught 19th August and a third well seen, not wearing a ring, on 22nd August. The latter twice bounced off a dew laden mist-net and then decided it was supposed to fly along it rather than through it.

Recoveries this year have been quite outstanding. The two Reed Warblers must be unique and in this respect I also give ring numbers. Small birds can only expect to live about three years at most and one would have thought rather less for an African migrant. The oldest bird from B.T.O. ringing is ten years, ten months. Why Reed Warblers should live longer, or at least appear to, than other warblers is one of the mysteries which makes ornithology interesting.

RECOVERIES & CONTROLS

Reed Warbler A juvenile No A549343 ringed 16th July 1982 was controlled at Rhoscrowther, Angle, Dyfed, Wales 4th June 1989. 175 kms. 2515 days.

A juvenile No A549360 ringed 17th July 1982 was controlled at La Rochelle, Guernsey, Channel Isles. 3rd May 1989. 225 kms. 2482 days.

Neither bird had been retrapped at Long Rock during the intervening years.

Sedge Warbler A juvenile ringed 7th August 1987 was controlled at Hightown, Merseyside 8th May 1989. 411 kms. 640 days.

A juvenile ringed 2nd August 1989 was controlled at Etang De Trenvel, Finistere, France 6th August 1989. 262 kms. 5 days. A very quick movement. A juvenile ringed 8th August 1989 at Steart, Bridgewater Bay, Somerset was controlled at Long Rock 21st August 1989. 209 kms. 236 days.

Grateful thanks to Lord St. Levan for permission to trap and ring wild birds at Marazion Marsh.

Bernard Patten den

140 THE SOCIETY'S RULES (Current from 14th April, 1984)

Rule l.(Name) The Society shall be called 'The Cornwall Bird-Watching and Preservation Society'.

Rule 2. (Objects) The objects of the Society shall be :- (a) To further the study of birds in the field. (b) To assist in their preservation.

Rule 3. (Membership) The Society shall consist of the following Honorary Officers; President, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Meetings Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer, Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor, Public Relations Officers, Solicitor, County Recorder and Editor, Assistant Editor, Officer for Youth and Education, General Secretary for the Isles of Scilly and two joint Recorders and Editors for the Isles of Scilly, who shall be fully paid up members of the Society Any persons under the age of 18 years shall be eligible for Junior Membership, and any person who has attained his or her 18th birthday for Full Membership. Junior members shall be entitled to participate in the activities of the Society but shall be ineligible for election to the Executive Committee or Officers of the Society. Life Members may be elected on a single payment of £75.00. With a view to recognition of useful service to the aims of the Society, a General Meeting may, upon the proposition and seconding by any members, elect any person to be a Honorary Member of the Society without regard to the actual membership or non- membership of such person, who is deemed worthy of such election. Any Honorary Member so elected shall enjoy the right of Full Membership without payment of any subscription being required. The Officers shall be elected annually at the first General Meeting of the year (which Meeting shall be named the Annual Meeting) and shall be eligible for re­ election. New Members may be elected at any General or Executive Committee meeting provided they have paid the subscription as required under Rule 4. The Executive Committee shall have authority to exclude or cancel membership to any person if it considers that person to have contravened any requirements contained in these Rules or legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or any other matter which the Executive Committee consider offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4. (Subscription) The Subscription shall be £5 for Full Members: £2.50 for each additional member of the same family sharing the same literature: and £1 for Junior Members, payable on election and thereafter on the 1st January. But any member who pays the first subscription after 30th September in any year, shall not be liable to pay a Full Members subscription until after the close of the current year. A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications and when six months in arrears shall be deleted from the list of members.

Rule 5. (Management) The Secretaries shall keep minutes of the meetings and prepare such literature as will keep members informed of the Society's activities. The Treasurer shall present a Statement of Accounts at the Annual Meeting each year. There shall be an Executive Committee consisting of the Officers and nine ordinary members. A nomination in writing containing the name and address of the

141 member proposed for election to the Executive Committee together with the names and addresses of a proposer and seconder must have been received by a Secretary at least 10 days before the Annual Meeting. This Committee shall be elected annually at the Annual Meeting and shall deal with all business and any obligation undertaken by the Executive Committee on behalf of the Society shall be an obligation of the Society. The Executive Committee shall have power to add to this number subject to confirmation at the next Annual Meeting. No ordinary member shall serve on this Committee for more than three consecutive years. The Executive Committee shall delegate five Officers - Chairman, Vice Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer to be known as the Management Team - to be responsible for the day to day decisions on the Society's affairs. Those delegated should agree unanimously on their decisions and report to the next Executive Committee for confirmation of their actions.

Rule 6. (Meetings) General Meetings shall be held as often as necessary but not less than twice a year, one of which shall be the Annual Meeting. The Executive Committee shall meet when necessary for the transaction of routine business. All meetings shall be convened in consultation with the President and Chairman. A special general meeting may also be called at the request of the Executive Committee or any fifteen members by application to the General Secretary, such application to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

Rule 7. (Alteration of Rules) An alteration of Rules may be made at any General Meeting, provided that the precise alteration has been shown in advance on the Agenda, and that the alteration be passed by a two-thirds majority of those present.

Rule 8. This Society shall neither be dissolved, nor amalgamated with, nor subordinated to any other body without the consent of two-thirds of the Members, at a General Meeting at which business is transacted, and in respect of which dissolution, amalgamation or subordination, prior notice must have been given under Rule 7. For the purpose of the Rule, Members may vote by post.

Rule 9. The property and effects of the Society shall be vested in not less than four members as Trustees to be appointed at a General Meeting. They shall have power to invest money and adopt such measures as may appear to them necessary in the interests of the Society, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee. Each Trustee shall remain in office until death, registration or removal and replacement by a General Meeting. In the event of the death, resignation or removal by any of the Trustees, the Executive Committee shall if necessary fill the vacancy subject to the confirmation at the next General Meeting.

142 St. George Printing Works Ltd., Commercial Centre, Pool Industrial Estate, Redruth. Tel.: (0209) 217033