Herefordshire Ornithological Club

ANNUAL REPORT 1994

Vcl. 5 Nc. 4 £2.50 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB

ANNUAL REPORT 1994 Volume 5 No. 4

Edited by I.B. Evans

CONTENTS

Officers & Committee 150 Editor's Report 151 Obituaries '" 154 Nest Box Scheme 1994 155 Dar"ic Rings 156 Ringing Reports 1994 159 Y.O.C. Hereford Group 162 Report on the Status of Birds in Haugh Wood 163 Accepted Records 1994 170 Collared Pratincole at Lugg Bridge Farm 203 Escapes & "Snippets" 207 Antipodean Crow? 209 List of Contributors 210 Report Exchanges 210 AffiliatedAssociations 210 H.O.C. Club Rules 211 H.O.C. Income & Expenditure Account 1994 215

Published: May 1995 by The Herefordshire Ornithological Club Price - £2.50 Illustrated by LB. Evans HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB Vol. 5 No. 4

OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE 1994 President J.L. Fox Vice Presidents P.W. Hinde, M.B.O.D., Dr. C.W. Walker, M.C., A.G. Fyshe Chairman A.J. Smith (January -April) Acting Chairman J.R. Pullen (May - December) Hon. Secretary I.B. Evans (R.S.P.E. Representative) 12, Brockington Drive, Tupsley, Hereford, HRl ITA TEL: 01432 265509 Hon. Treasurer LT. Stone 5, Tollstone Way, Grosmont, Abergavenny, Gwent, NP7 8ER TEL: 01981 240318 Hon. Recorder K.A. Mason (B.T.O. Representative) The Sett, Common Hill, Fownhope, Herefordshire, HRl 4QA TEL: 01432 860546 Hon. Field Secretary K.A.Mason Hon. Bulletin Editor P. Gardner Committee G.S. Bilbao A.H. Eveleigh J.R. Pullen Miss L. Caldicott Mrs F.R. Francis P. Thompson Mrs. H. Dwyer C.E. Lankester C. Wells (Press Officer) co-opted: S.P. Coney (YOC Leader) P.J. Eldridge 150 EDITOR'S REPORT

It gives me great pleasure to present the 44th. Herefordshire Ornithological Club'sAnnual Report for 1994. The presentation is similar to that of 1993 with the systematic list having been compiled by the same team with the addition of one new member as follows:- Chris Wells Little Grebe to Peregrine Gerry Bilbao Red Grouse to Little Auk !for Evans Stock Dove to Redstart Dan Thomas - Whinchat to Treecreeper Peter Eldridge - Great Grey Shrike to Corn Bunting Keith Mason Reading and commenting on the whole text. It is pleasing to note that over ninety members contributed to the systematic list. The editorial team rely wholly on the records submitted by members without whose help there would be no report. Our grateful thanks go to all contributors for their observations. There was one possible new addition to the County list, a Desert Wheatear at Castleton on 7th. Nov. details of which have been sent to BBRC. The total number of species seen during the year was 160 plus Black Swan. A number of uncommon species were recorded including Black­ necked Grebe, Common Scoter, Red Kite, Osprey, Black-tailed Godwit, Spotted Redshank, Yellow-legged Gull, Black Tern, Long-eared Owl, Black Redstart and Firecrest. Worthy ofspecial note was the Collared Pratincole at Lugg Mill Pond on the 20th. May, only the 2nd. record for the County. Undoubtedly the most unusual, another 2nd. record, was the Little Auk at Dilwyn on the 6th. December. Original articles on any aspect ofHerefordshire ornithology are welcomed by the editor. All papers that are submitted will be carefully reviewed and considered for publication in the annual report. The editor would also welcome short notes on any interesting or unusual behaviour by birds recorded within the County. At a committee meeting on the 12th.April Mr. Alan J. Smith resigned as Chairman. Alan joined the H.O.C. in 1958'and at the A.G.M. on the 7th. May 1971 he was appointed Recorder for both Herefordshire and Radnorshire in succession to Mr. R.H. Baillie, M.B.O.U. one time Recorder, Report Editor and Secretary for fifteen years. Alan held this post for sixteen years until he was succeeded by Keith Mason in 1987. He was elected Chairman at theA.G.M. held on the 15th. March 1984 on the retirement ofThmAmmonds who had been Chairman for some twenty four years. The grateful thanks of the H.O.C. is extended to Alan for all his efforts on behalf of the Club over a period of thirty six years.

151 During the year 38 field and indoor meetings were held. The field meetings were planned so that a variety of habitats could be visited giving members the opportunity of seeing most of the birds that are to be found within the County and to give a taste of the possibilities further afield. The meeting at Harley Dingle on the 18th. September was led by Linda Caldicott while Steve Coney, on the 19th. November, led us on what seemed an assault course through the Radnorshire Nature Trust's Reserve, Bailey Einon at Shaky Bridge near Llandrindod Wells. Helen Dwyer led a meeting over Hergest Ridge on the 22nd. May. This was followed on the 5th. June by Peter Eldridge leading a party to the Cotswold Water Park. Once again Tony Eveleigh led six meetings, Ashleworth on the 29th. January, Ross Wye Walk on the 9th. April, R.S.P.B. Reserve at Highnam Wood on the 20th. May, Pecket Stone on the 1st. July, Stapleton Castle on the 21st. August and Holme Lacy on the 8th. October. The meetings at Sollers Hope on the 11th. May and Aramstone, Kings Caple on the 12th. June were led by Mrs. F.R. Francis. Alan Marchant led the meetings at Kenfig Pool and Dunes on the 13th. March, Olchon Valley on the 26th. March, Llandegley on the 17th. April, Llyn Heilyn on the 7th. August and the Severn Estuary on the 11th. December. Keith Mason guided members to Letton Court and Leach Pool on the 15th. January, Whitcliff and High Vinnals on the 27th. February and Glasbury and Llan Bwch­ Llyn on the 6th. November. A delightful evening was spent at Whitwick Manor on the 14th. July by kind invitation of Mrs. J. Oram, few birds were seen but we all thoroughly enjoyed the wine and biscuits afterwards! Our grateful thanks Mrs. Oram. The Haugh Wood census on the 30th. April was organised by Ifor Preece. John Pullen also led six meetings, Tregaron Bog on the 12th. February, Forest of Dean on the 14th. May, Skomer & Ramsey Islands weekend on the 24th. - 26th. June, Kentchurch on the 23rd. July, Llandegfedd Reservoir on the 3rd. September (only two members saw the Spotted Crake!) and Haugh Wood on the 15th. October. The New Forest Weekend and a visit to Portland Bill was once again led by John Vickerman from the 19th. to the 23rd. October. Our grateful thanks go to all leaders and to those landowners who gave us permission to visit their properties. Indoor meetings proved extremely popular again and produced some interesting talks combined with a high standard of coloured slides. The first meeting ofthe year was the members' evening on the 20th. January with a video presentation by Keith & Chris Mason on "Norway and its Birds" followed by a thirty year old cine film of a Round Britain Cruise taken and presented by Beryl Bayliss with the assistance ofAlan Parry

152 on the projector. Thanks to the efforts ofKeith Mason we were extremely lucky to be paid a visit on the 2nd. February by Bobby Tulloch ofShetland fame and President ofthe Shetland Bird Club whose talk/slide show on "The Falkland Islands" attracted an audience of over ninety members. This was followed on the 17th. February by Charles Brown ARPS who gave a most interesting lecture on "The Hebrides". The winter programme concluded on the 24th. March with "The Birds ofThe Gambia" presented by Ifor Evans. "The Poetry of Birds" was the title of John Gower's lecture on the 30th. September. John was the PublicAffairs Officer at the Welsh Office of the RS.PE. This was followed on the 21st. October by a second visit from Gareth Thomas FRPS who disclosed the "Secrets ofthe Teme". On the 16th. November we were introduced to "The Gentle Art of Sea Watching" by Graham Rees, past Chairman ofthe Welsh Ornithological Society, who had travelled from Haverfordwest to be with us. Our final meeting ofthe year, on the 7th. December, was an extremely interesting and informative lecture on "Birding in Eilat" by Gerry Bilbao one of our own members. This meeting concluded with the usual offering of mince pies that proved so popular, disappointing certain members who had hoped for some 'left overs' to take home! Sincere thanks to Elaine Evans and Josephine Field for making the mince pies and to Chris Mason for organising the refreshments after each meeting. Our thanks also go to all our lecturers. In conclusion our sincere thanks to Mr. & Mrs. P. Gardner for producing the quarterly bulletins, a task they have undertaken since February 1972, to Charles and Sharron O'Gorman for running the draw at indoor meetings, to Mr. T. Davies for auditing the accounts, to the members of the Editorial Committee for their assistance and guidance, to Barry and Helen Dwyer of Curlew Text of Kington for their advice on the format and printing ofthe report, to all members for their continued support ofthe H.O.C and finally to John Pullen who has so ably conducted the affairs of the Club since agreeing, at short notice, to be acting Chairman until the annual general meeting of 1995. I.B. EVANS

153 OBITUARIES

It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Miss W.M. Gibson on the 27th. February. Miss Gibson was a long- serving and loyal member who, together with her great friend Miss F.E. Hake, first joined the Club in 1955. They were familiar figures at our indoor meetings and showed a keen interest in the Club's activities attending all indoor meetings until a few years ago when Miss Hake passed away. We last saw Miss Gibson at Bobby Tulloch's meeting on the 2nd. February. She was elected to serve on the committee in 1957 and proved to be both helpful and knowledgeable, showing a great deal of enthusiasm and kindness to others. She was a faithful committee member for fifteen years serving for the last time in 1976. Typical of her attitude was that when asked to buy a Life Membership so as to assist the Club's finances, she immediately agreed but nevertheless continued to pay her annual subscription. She will be remembered with affection and gratitude. It was with great regret that at the beginning of July we recorded the death of one of our founder members Mr. P.W Hinde, M.B.O.V. The H.O.C. was one of Philip Hinde's great interests. He served on the committee from 1951 and was also the Herefordshire Regional Representative for the B.T.O. He was elected Chairman in 1954 a position he held until he obtained a post in Wolverhampton and moved to there in 1956. In 1957 he was elected Vice-President and also served on the Editorial Committee a post he held until his resignation in 1993. His knowledge, expertise and advice as a member ofthe Editorial Committee for some thirty years was much appreciated. On the 13th. July 1993 he was made an Honorary Life Member of the H.O.C. in recognition ofhis services to the Club. We extend our sincere sympathy to Mrs. Hinde. It was also with great regret that we heard that another founder member, Mrs Isobel Walker, at 91 years of age, had died on the 14th. November. Mrs. Walker was the wife ofour founder Dr. Charles Walker. They were an extraordinary happy and cheerful team and Mrs. Walker was a particularly warm and generous person. Whenever I visited them she always scolded Dr. Walker for not immediately offering a glass of sherry regardless of time of day! We extend the Club's deep sympathy to Dr. Walker in his loss. I have no doubt that all who knew Isobel Walker would agree that it was a privilege to have known her. I.B. EVANS

154 HEREFORDSHIRE NATURE TRUST NEST BOX SCHEME 1994 c. W. SHELDRAKE Recording took place on 26 Herefordshire sites covered by the H.O.C. No. of Sites Present Nests Fledged 1994 1993 1994 1993 1994 1993 Pied Flycatcher 22 22 181 193 758 875 Blue Tit 24 25 187 201 1190 1479 Great Tit 22 23 97 109 443 708 Coal Tit 4 6 4 9 36 75 Marsh Tit 2 3 2 4 3 25 Nuthatch 5 5 12 14 43 76 Redstart 1 1 1 1 5 0 Tree Sparrow 1 1 o Wren 3 1 4 1 13 0 Tawny Owl 2 3 2 1994 1993 Sites Recorded 26 26 Boxes Recorded 860 817 Boxes Used 491 533 Percentage Used 57 65.2

BREEDING STATISTICS 1994 (1993 figures in brackets) Pied Flycatcher Blue Tit Great Tit Average Clutch Size 6.37 (6.2) 8.74 (8.82) 70.6 (7.82) % Hatched 78.1 (81.5) 79.9 (89.0) 78.3 (90.2) % Fledged 84.1 (89.1) 90.0 (93.0) 82.4 (91.9) % Overall 65.7 (72.6) 71.9 (83.3) 64.6 (83.0) FledgedlPair 4.18 (4.5) 6.29 (7.35) 4.56 (6.49) Results this year show a downward trend, notably in the Great Tit where predation took place. There were also reports that oak tree caterpillars were early, upsetting the food supply. Although it was a relatively mild winter a wet period occured at the beginning of the nesting season.

155 DARVIC RINGS

The identification of individual birds by leg rings has been used for many years, usually by means of a metal ring each bearing a number specific to that bird. The inscriptions are so small that the bird has to be recaptured to enable identification to be made, therefore with larger birds in mind, a second ring is sometimes fitted. These are normally made from coloured laminated plastic, known by the trade name "Darvic" rings. The inscription is engraved through the outer layer to reveal a second colour mostly black or white. A blue ring with white alpha numericADY would be referred to as blue ADY. The alpha numerics can consist of three letters, three numbers or a combination of letters and numbers. It is important to read the details accurately, the leg to which the ring is attached is also useful as a means ofconfirmation by the ringer. Some research projects use the leg to identify the sex ofthe bird, whilst others will use it as a means of year dating. BTO insist that their metal rings are used in all ringing projects, but may be supplemented by colour leg rings. Darvic rings are expensive to buy and the cost has to be borne by the project leader. Colour rings may be used on any species ofbird from Snow Bunting to Mute Swan but are mainly used on the larger birds such as swans, geese and raptors. I have seen them used on Black Swan, Mute Swan, Tundra Swan, Whooper Swan, most species ofgoose, Cormorant, Raven and Red Kite. Some foreign projects also use neck collars, whilst some use wing tags. All identify the bird individually. Details of leg rings, location and the date of the observation when forwarded to the ringer, will always illicit a reply giving a life history of that bird. Why not participate, read and record the Darvics? Please send the details to me and I will pass the information to the ringer concerned. Hopefully, this article may whet the appetite and act as encouragement. The following birds, identified by leg rings, were observed in the County by the author and other Club members during the year:-

GREAT CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo This species usually has two short colour leg rings, one above the other and are always read from the foot up. Red 4 / white 1 on the right leg at Bodenham Gp. on 29th.Aug. This bird was ringed at St Margarets Island, Tenby, Dyfed, on 27th. June 1992. All of this

156 species observed by me carrying Darvic rings had been ringed here. I was the first (in 1993) to locate the bird after ringing. Green 7/ white V on the right leg at Bodenham Gp. on 9th. Sept. Ringed in July, 1994. This was the first sighting of this bird. Green Z/ white H on the right leg at Amberley Court on 11th. Oct. loafing in tree adjacent to pool. Ringed in July 1994. This was the first sighting of this bird. Green X/ white A on the right leg at Carey Island on 31st. Dec. Ringed in July, 1994. This was the first sighting of this bird.

MUTE SWAN Cygnus alar Orange UIZ is now resident at BGP and bred with an unringed mate, rearing 1 cygnet. Ringed as an adult male on the River Severn at Worcester on release from Cirencester Swan Rescue Service on 1st Jan. 1991; three further sightings at that location. This bird was sighted and reported accordingly in HOC Annual Report Vol. 5 No.3. Orange UTH was observed on 12th. Sept. with an unringed mate on the River Lugg adjacent to Lugg Bridge Farm pool. They were accompanied by four juv. birds. Ringed as a cygnet, 1 of5, at Church Lench, Nr. Evesham on 24th Aug. 1991, sighted with family at Vale Golf Course, Evesham, on 17th. Dec. 1991; Stratford upon Avon on 22nd. Jan. 1992; River Severn at Worcester on 16th. Feb. 1993 with the last sighting at the same location on 12th. April 1993. This bird was sighted and reported accordingly in HOC Annual Report Vol. 5 No.3. Orange 20K left was observed at WGP on 18th. Sept. Ringed as a first year male at River Severn, Worcester on 17th. April 1994, where it remained until the 2nd Sept. Orange 2RI left was observed at WGP on 18th. Sept. Ringed as a cygnet, 1 of 4, at Great House, Leigh, Nr. Bransford, Worcs. on 29th. Sept. 1993. Frequent sightings afterwards, all on the River Severn at Worcester, the last on 2nd. Sept.

TUNDRA SWAN C. columbianus Blue 148P was first observed on flood water adjacent to Leominster by-pass on 9th. Jan. (PHD). The leg ring was not visible, this bird was wearing a blue neck collar but the details were not observed. The neck collar details (blue 148P) were observed at Kings Caple on 28th Feb. (KAM) Ringed on Kashin Island, Korovinskaia Bay, Pechora Delta, Russia on 10th.Aug. 1992; sighted at Haeska, Matsalu Bay, Laane Province, Estonia on 30th. Sept. 1993; Halvati, Laanemaa Province, Estonia from 22nd. until 29th Oct. 1993; Huseby, Smalholm, Sweden on 13th. Nov. 1993; Walmore Common Gloucester on 28th. Dec.1993; Upton on Severn from 9th. to 16th. Jan. 1994; Slimbridge (WWT) from 22nd. to 26th. Jan. 1994; the H.O.C. sightings were next; Welney, Norfolk, on 6th. Mar. 1994 before presumably returning to Russia; re- sighted at Slimbridge on 21st. Nov. 1994. A well-travelled bird.

157 WHOOPER SWAN C. cygnus Yellow CPF ringed as an adult male at Sandvatn, Iceland on 16th. Aug. 1992; seen at River Wye, Bronydd on 6th. Feb. 1993; re-caught at Sandvatn on 4th. Aug. 1993 and observed at Clifford Wye (opposite Bronydd in Powys) by PHD on 26th. Dec. and later seen at Glasbury, Powys by the author and John Bowly of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust. CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis Yellow CPF left leg was seen at Lugg Bridge Farm on 4th. Feb. Ringed at Harewood House, Leeds, on 1st. July, 1992. This bird was seen previously by me at several locations in the county during the second winter period of 1993. Orange BJ right leg was seen at Lugg Bridge Farm, on 13th. March. Ringed at Slimbridge on 11th. Feb. 1992 as a first winter male bird, re- caught at Frampton on Severn, on 29th. June, 1992; seen at Killington Reservoir, Kendal, Cumbria, in June and July 1993 and not reported again until this sighting. White ANI right leg, white ATT left leg and white AVB left leg were seen at Wellington Gp. on 29th Aug. All ringed at Hay - a - Park Gravel Pits, Knaresborough, Yorkshire in July 1993. ANI was subsequently seen at Spofforth Sewage Farm, Wetherby, in Sept. 1993 and at Farnham Gp. Knaresborough. White ANN left leg, whiteAXC left leg and white DFN left leg were observed at Monnington Wye on 27th. Sept. ANN was ringed at Hay - a - Park Gravel Pits, Knaresborough, Yorkshire in July 1993 and seen at two different locations in that area, the last being in March 1994. AXC was also ringed at Hay - a - Park Gravel Pits, Knaresborough, Yorkshire in July, 1993. Seen at Spofforth in Sept. 1993 and recaptured at Llangorse Lake, Brecon in July 1994. Orange DL right leg was seen at Lugg Bridge Farm on 27th. Nov. Ringed at Frampton-on-Severn on 29th. June 1992, a male, its plumage indicated that it had hatched the previous year and not reported again until this sighting. Blue LZ left was observed at Lugg Bridge Farm by GSB on 28th. Nov. Ringed as an adult female at Chew Valley Lake, Bristol, Avon on 2nd. July 1991. All of these Canada Geese have been seen at other locations around the County, the above locations are where the birds were first identified. A dead Canada Goose was found at Stretton Sugwas SP on 18th. Oct. (KAM). It carried a BTO ring (not darvic ringed) showing that it had been ringed as a 1year plus during moult on 3rd. July 1994 at Llangorse Lake. CHRIS WELLS

158 RINGING REPORTS 1994

Grove Farm, Llangrove Attempts have been made to catch, ring and release birds at this site for the last three winters. Itis hoped that this project will make it possible to monitor any changes in the local populations in a statistically significant manner. The most successful strategy for catching found to date has been to set up a feeding station a week or so in advance and then the birds will stay around where nets are to be sited. The disadvantage of this method is that it attracts a super abundance of Blue Tits. However these do act as a way of attracting raptors so it is a matter of swings and roundabouts! The most fruitful site to date has proved to be around manure heaps which must attract many insect feeding birds. In all 150 birds have been caught of 14 species including: 1 Common Kestrel Faleo tinnuneulus 2 Blackcap Bylvia atrieapilla 1 Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus 1 Goldcrest Regulus regulus 6 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 59 Blue Tit Parus caeruleus 8 Wren Troglodytes troglodytes 15 Great Tit P. major 1 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba 11 Chaffinch Fringilla eoelebs 13 Hedge Accentor Prunella modularis 8 Greenfinch Carduelis ehloris 9 Robin Erithaeus rubeeula 1 Reed Bunting Emberiza sehoeniclus (Firecrest (Regulus ignieapillus) was trapped and ringed here in Dec. 1993.) Birds retrapped include 7 Blue Tits and 1 Greenfinch from 1992. The only bird ringed at The Grove, found elsewhere so far, is a Greenfinch that managed to find its way as far as Lydney and was recaught on Woolston Common.

Garway Hill Common This was the first year that ringing had been conducted in the White Rocks area of the Common. Sightings of birds have been many and various. The antics ofthe Ravens in particular have brightened up several dull mornings. However it would be fair to say that to date there have been few surprises, other than how difficult it has proved to catch even the most common of breeding birds to date. Different combinations and sitings ofnets will be tried next year. In all 49 birds were caught, ringed and released of 12 species. The only slightly unusual bird, considering that this site is over 200m., was a Siskin feeding on ivy berries.

159 The birds caught included: 4 Hedge Accentor Prunella modularis 9 Blue Tit Parus caeruleus 1 Robin Erithacus rubecula 23 Great Tit P. major 2 Blackbird Thrdus merula 2 Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 1 Song Thrush T. philomelos 2 Greenfinch Carduelis chloris 1 Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 1 Siskin C. spinus

Backney Beach and the surrounding Common As this was the first year of ringing it was difficult to know what times of the year would be most productive. As it turned out, Spring passage produced the most birds. Visits were made on a number of occasions but birds were caught on the following dates: 15th. May, 22nd. May and 4th. June. The season began by holding much promise, large numbers of Sand Martins were showing interest in the sandy banks, up to 16 Yellow Wagtails were seen displaying in one evening and Common Sandpipers were seen on each visit in May. However the Sand Martins that did start to nest were predated. I saw a stoat entering holes on the 22nd. May and most nests were predated.Also, unfortunately, the ground was mowed quite early, leaving only 2 pairs of Yellow Wagtails. Much more might be achieved if this mowing was delayed by three or four weeks. In all 33 birds were caught and ringed: 28 Sand Martin Riparia riparia 1 Blackbird Thrdus merula 2 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 1 Chiffchaff Phylloscopuscollybita 3 of the Sand Martins ringed were recaught later in the year at a breeding colony at Stretton Sugwas near Hereford. 2 ofthe Sand Martins caught were already ringed: 1 at Ickesham, Sussex on 7th. Aug. 1993 and 1 at Stretton Sugwas on 12th. July 1993. Both birds had been to West Africa and back in between times.

Coughton Marsh near Ross-on-Wye This is the second year that ringing has taken place on this site. Numbers ofbirds have varied from just a few Blue Tits to a wide variety ofboth resident and Summer visitors, many ofwhich are breeding here. The first summer migrant caught was a Chiffchaffon the 1st. April. The highlight of this Spring passage was a Common Cuckoo caught on the 12th. May. More migrants arrived during this month including Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Willow Warbler and Whitethroat.

160 In all 78 birds were ringed over the year, mainly in the Summer months including: 1 Common CuckooCuculus canorus 8 Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 4 Wren 1roglodytes troglodytes 7 Willow Warbler P. trochilus 2 Hedge Accentor Prunella modularis 1 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 14 Robin Erithacus rubecula 6 Blue Tit Parus caeruleus 11 Blackbird Turdus merula 3 Great Tit P. major 1 Song Thrush T philomelos 1 Magpie Pica pica 1 Redwing T iliacus 1 Carrion Crow Corvus corone 4 Cmn Whitethroat Sylvia communis 2 Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 2 Garden Warbler S. borin 1 Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis 5 Blackcap S. atricapilla 3 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula The following birds were retrapped from last year: Blackbirds RKO 1836 & RKO 1830 Willow Warblers 6F8411 & 6F8424 The only recovery remains a Blackbird ringed on 27th. June 1993 and found dead at Horn Green on 18th. July 1993.

Audits Bridge and the Gamber Valley Reserve This was a new site for ringing. A large number of summer migrants were noted and in particular high densities ofWhitethroats and Willow Warblers. Breeding pairs of Buzzards and Reed Buntings were noted and passage Quail were heard in early June but no sign ofbreeding was noticed. Seven visits were made over the period April to September and the following 54 birds were caught, ringed and released: 1 Swallow Hirundo rustica 4 Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 4 Wren 1roglodytes troglodytes 7 Willow Warbler P. trochilus 3 Hedge Accentor Prunella modularis 2 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 1 Robin Erithacus rubecula 1 Blue Tit Parus caeruleus 4 Blackbird Turdus merula 1 Great Tit P. major 2 Song Thrush T philomelos 2 Eur Treecreeper Certhia familiaris 12 Cmn Whitethroat Sylvia communis 1 Jay Garrulusglandarius 5 Garden Warbler S. borin 2 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 1 Blackcap S. atricapilla 1 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella A Willow Warbler, caught on the 5th. June, was previously ringed at Icklesham, Sussex on the 8th. Oct. 1993. It had, presumably, been to Africa and back inbetween times. PAUL SCRIVEN January 1995

161 YOUNG ORNITHOLOGISTS' CLUB HEREFORD GROUP TheYoung Ornithologists'Club was fonned in 1965 and replaced the Junior Recorders' Club. The YOC is the junior branch of the RS.P.B. and membership is open to any bird watcher up to and including 18 years of age. Members receive many benefits including free entry to over 100 RS.P.B. nature reserves in the UK and six issues ofBird Life the magazine ofthe YOC. Bird Life includes articles not only on birds but on other aspects ofwild life. Recent issues featured articles on cetaceans, grasshoppers and crickets and how to build a hedgehog house. Rook, a popular cartoon characterin the magazine is a mine ofinfonnation on many aspects ofbird life. Members between the ages of 14 to 19 receive the free quarterly magazine Wingbeats published by the youth unit of the Society. At present total membership oftheYOC is over 130,000 but since it started in 1965 nearly a million children have enjoyed membership of the world's largest environmental club for young people. Our decision to volunteer to fonn and lead a YOC Group in Hereford arose as a result ofassisting at a YOC Road Show, organised by Sue Morgan and Graham Greenaway, held at the Shire Hall, Hereford on Thursday 10th. February 1994. Eventually on the 17th. September 1994 the Hereford Group of the Young Ornithologists' Club was launched. A good start was ensured with the very welcome financial support of the Herefordshire Ornithological Club andthe kind offers ofservices from many ofthe H.O.C.'s officers and members. The group is fortunate in being able to hire the excellent Tupsley Scout Hut for its indoor meetings which are held monthly. The first meeting which was hosted by Carl Nicholson, the RS.P.B.'s Youth and Volunteer Officer, was very well attended by 43 children and over 20 parents who appeared to thoroughly enjoy the mixture of conservation-games and bird-recognition quizzes. Since that first event the Hereford Group meetings have been regularly attended by over 30 children and many parent-helpers, with children between the ages offour and fourteen coming to indoor and outdoor meetings. Our programme for 1994 included a slide show about "Birds and Gardens" by Ifor Evans, birdcake and birdfeeder making, owl-pellet dissection and many quizzes, competitions and craft-work. Hopefully the present enthusiasm will continue as there are definitely some budding birdwatchers amongst this group and not just the children. LAURA & STEVE CONEY January 1995

162 REPORT ON THE STATUS OF BIRDS IN HAUGH WOOD Spring 1982 - Autumn 1994

The Herefordshire Ornithological Club has conducted bi­ annual field meetings at Haugh Wood for 35 years. The purpose is to record the species present and in what numbers. By comparing the results with previous years, trends or changes can be seen, and possible explanations for the variations put forward.

Haugh Wood is a mixed woodland containing conifers and deciduous trees and shrubs. It is managed by the Forestry Commission with access to the public at all times. Recent management changes have been to open up some rides and paths for the benefit of the butterflies and moths.

The wood is situated 6 miles south east of Hereford and the area surveyed by the H.O.C. is above the 137 metre contour line.

The first report covered the years 1959 - 1981. It was produced by Mr. Ivor Preece and published in the H.O.C. Annual Report for 1981. This second status report covers the period from Spring 1982 - Autumn 1994. With the exception of S1984, A1989 and A1990 (the records for which are not available), all census details have been considered.

The counts include all identified species seen or heard during the period ofeach meeting. For the purpose ofthe count the wood is divided into four sections and each section is surveyed simultaneously by a small group of Club members. The results obtained from each section are added together to produce the final results. The letters "S" and "A" prefixed to year dates refer to spring and autumn counts respectively. During the period 62 species have been recorded. This reduction from the 83 species of the 1981 Report is accounted for by the fact that birds seen flying over (e.g. Mallard, Swift, Swallow etc.) have not been included.

The average spring count is 35 species and the Autumn count 27 species.

163 Total of species recorded at each visit: YEAR DATE No. DATE No. 1982 1st. May 34 23rd. Oct. 18 1983 30th. April 38 22nd. Oct. 34 1984 27th. Oct. 23 1985 11th. May 42 26th. Oct. 32 1986 3rd. May 37 25th. Oct. 21 1987 25th. April 36 17th. Oct. 26 1988 30th. April 34 22nd. Oct. 29 1989 6th. May 34 1990 5th. May 30 1991 4th. May 35 28th. Oct. 29 1992 25th. April 32 31st. Oct. 31 1993 24th. April 37 23rd. Oct. 34 1994 30th. April 32 15th. Oct. 26

Synopsis of Records

EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK Accipter nisus First recorded in Spring 92. 3 sightings in A 93 and 1 in S 94. COMMONBUZZARD Buteo buteo From 1 bird in A 87 and 1 in S 91 it has been recorded on both counts in 93 and 94 with a max. of 6 in S 94. COMMON KESTREL Falco tinnunculus No records since S 88. COMMON PHEASANT Phasianus colchicus Recorded every Spring in good numbers with max. of21 in S 93. Autumn records in 85, 86, 92 and 94. BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus Only 3 records. Max. 8 in A 87. STOCKDOVE Columba oenas 9 records mostly ones and twos but a max. of 4 in S 92 and 3 in A 92. WOOD PIGEON C. palumbus Present at every count. Over the report period 1298 birds have been noted. Highest counts 190 A 92 and 100 A 93 but only 76 birds recorded in the whole of 94.

164 COMMON CUCKOO Cuculus canorus Regular Spring records. Max. 6 in S 87 with 5 in 90 and 93. TAWNY OWL Strix aluco Not recorded prior to 89. Since then only 2 Autumn and 2 Spring records. This shows a sharp decline since the 81 Report when the bird occurred on almost every count. GREEN WOODPECKER Picus viridis Although occuring on 16 counts this bird has not been recorded since A 92 and only singles since 1990. This compares with counts of 4, 5 and 6 birds during the 1980s. GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus major Regularly recorded but only in ones and twos in recent years compared to 6s. in the mid 80s. and counts of 9 on occasions in the 1960s. LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER D. minor 5 records of ones and twos. Status appears unchanged. TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis Regular summer visitor in ones and twos. No change in status since the 81 Report. WREN Troglodytes troglodytes Reported on every count. Particularly high counts over the last 3 years with a max. of 43 in S 93. An average of 20 per count over the period. HEDGE ACCENTOR Prunella modularis Occurs in ones and twos. Most records from the autumn period. ROBIN Erithacus rubecula Recorded on every count. Numbers have risen to 59 S 93 and 63 S94. These large counts are probably a reflection of the recent mild winters. BLACKBIRD Turdus merula Well recorded throughout the period. Spring was consistently higher than Autumn with a max. of 50 in Spring 85. FIELDFARE T. pilaris Noted on only 4 occasions, 31 inA 91 and 27 inA93 are the highest counts since the survey began. SONG THRUSH T. philomelos Regular in Spring when breeding. Only 4 Autumn records. Not recorded in A 85 or the whole of 86.

165 REDWING T iliacus Recorded on only 5 occasions. Max. of 121 in A 91. MISTLE THRUSH T viscivorous Present on all Spring counts except 86. Only single numbers but status appears unchanged. COMMON WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis Present on 3 visits only. Although never numerous its position has declined greatly in the last 18 years. GARDEN WARBLER S. borin Infrequent. Only 8 birds reported on 6 occasions. BLACKCAP S. atricapilla Regular Spring visitor, Single numbers except 85 (15) and 92 (13). No Autumn records. CHIFFCHAFF Phylloscopus collybita Successful Spring visitor, recorded on each Spring count with an verage of 28. WILLOW WARBLER P. trochilus Successful summer visitor recorded on all Spring counts. Max. 82 S 87. Average 36. Status appears lower than in the 81 Report when there were many records over 75 and 4 over 100. GOLDCREST Regulus regulus Strong populations recorded on all counts. Appears to have improve its status since 1981. LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalos caudatus Very variable numbers and completely absent in A 86 and S 90. There appears to be a gradual erosion of numbers since 1981. MARSH TIT Parus palustris Mostly single number counts. Present in all periods except S 90 and A 94. WILLOW TIT P. montanus Only 5 records of ones and twos. COAL TIT P. ater Recorded on all census days. Strong stable populations. Numbers building up in 1990 - 1993 period with a max. of 50 in A 93. Numbers slumped in 1994 to a total of 17 birds. BLUETIT P. caeruleus Regularly recorded. Autumn average 33. Spring average 24.

166 GREAT TIT P. major Recorded on all days. Only reached double figures on 5 occasions before 1992. Average 36 over the last 3 years. NUTHATCH Sitta europaea Not recorded on only 4 counts since S 82. This is a considerable improvement over the 1981 Report whe the species was recorded on just 50% of visits. EURASIAN TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris Well recorded on most counts. Single birds to a max. of 5 in A 85 and A 93. Appears to be a stable population. EURASIAN JAY Garrulus glandarius Present on every census. Max. 40 birds A 85 and A 88. Autumn average 15, Spring average 5. No change in status. MAGPIE Pica pica Noted 18 times during the period. Mostly single numbers but 24 in 1985 and 14 in 1992. EURASIAN JACKDAW Corvus monedula Only 4 records from A 86 t S 92 inclusive. Widely fluctuating numbers with only ones and twos since A 92. Not nearly as common as in the previous report. ROOK C. frugilegus Similar to Jackdaw. Again only 4 records from A 86 to S 92 inclusive. CARRION CROW C. corone Observed on all counts except S 82. Spring average 13, Autumn average 13. COMMON STARLING Sturnus vulgaris Recorded on 6 occasions. 51 birds inA84 andA 92 were the highest counts and this shows a marked reduction from the counts of 500 and,over of the 1981 Report. HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus Present on 8 occasions with a total of 24 birds. Greatly reduced since 1981. CHAFFINCH Fringilla coelebs Stable population with counts to a max. of 63 in A 93. GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris Recorded 3 times on Autumn counts but present every Spring to 1992. The status of this species gives cause for concern since only 5 birds have been noted in the last 5 years. GOLDFINCH C. carduelis 6 records. Infrequent and only reported once since S 88 in A 93.

167 SISKIN C. spinus Irregularly observed. Spring counts are of 6 birds or less. Autumn counts of 56 (A 83), 50 (A 85) and 150 (A 92). COMMON REDPOLL C. flammea Irregular sightings and none from A 86 to S 91 inclusive. Highest count 12 in A 82 which compares badly with the counts of 300 (twice) in the earlier report. COMMON CROSSBILL Loxia curvirostra 5 sightings in the last 10 years is an improvement on the 4 records of the previous 22 year period. Counts of 23 noted in S 86 and 75 in S 91. BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula Recorded on 17 days. With single numbers up to 7 (S 93) its status appears unchanged.

Additional Records were as follows:

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 1 - S 1989 2 - S 1994 Turtle Dove S. turtur 2 - S 1986 2 - S 1991 Little Owl Athene noctua 1 - A 1991 Sky Lark Alauda arvensis 2 - A 1983 1 - A 1993 House Martin Delichon urbica 2 - S 1983 2 - S 1985 5 - S 1991 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba 1 - A 1991 Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 1 - S 1990 1 - S 1993 1 - S 1994 Common Stonechat Saxicola torquata 1 - S 1987 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix 2 - S 1990 1 - S 1993 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca 1 - S 1987 1 - S 1990 Tree Sparrow Passer montanus 1 - A 1983 Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 5 - A 1987 Linnet Carduelis cannabina 2 - S 1983 1 - S 1989 1 - S 1991 Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes 2 - S 1987 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 1 - S 1983 1 - S 1990

168 Conclusion The increasing maturity ofthe wood reflects the increase in numbers of woodpeckers and the increasing strength of the Nuthatch and Treecreeper populations. Similarly Redstart have been observed more frequently in recent years and Pied Flycatchers too, should feature more often in future as nest holes become more available.

Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos), which occured 7 times during the previous report period, is no longer present. The wood is on the edge of the bird's range and suitable habitat is no longer available.

Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola), which were recorded infrequently up to 1981, have not been recorded since. It is, however, known to be a breeding resident.

The hope, expressed in the 1981 Report, that over-wintering Blackcaps, Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs should feature in the Autumn count "in the near future", has sadly, not been realised.

On the whole the future for the birds looks good and it is to be hoped that if the rumoured changes in ownership of the wood should take place, that the Club and the general public will still be able to enjoy the beautiful and varied habitat and the flora and fauna of this unique part of Herefordshire. P.J. ELDRIDGE. December 1994.

169 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB ACCEPTED RECORDS 1994

The list follows the sequence and nomenclature as published in The "British Birds"List ofEnglish Names ofWestern Palearctic Birds, British Birds Ltd., 1993. Abbreviations: c = approximately; CO = Club Outing; BGP = Bodenham Gravel Pit; f. = female; fldg. ::;: fledgling; fldgd. = fledged; imm. = immature; juv. = juvenile; m. = male; MGP = Mathon Gravel Pit; max. = maximum; NR = Nature Reserve; prs. =pairs; RG =Ringing Group; SP = Sand Pit; yng. = young; WGP = Wellington Gravel Pit. [] denotes a need for confirmation. Large numbers are generally approximations.

LITTLE GREBE Tachybaptus ruficollis A common resident in suitable habitat. Breeding only confirmed at Kenchester (PJE); Haygrove/Linton (AHE); MGP. (PGG) and Weston Pool, Bredwardine (SPC). Reported at 10 other locations with a max. of 16 at WGP on 1st. Oct. (GSB).

GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus A common resident in suitable habitat. Breeding confirmed at BGP (CW); Hartleton Lake (AHE); Eywood Pool (DHW) and WGP (PHD).Also observed at 6 other localities with a max. of 12 at BGP on 30th. Dec. (PHD). At BGP on 23rd. June an adult was found dead with a severely damaged neck, possibly inflicted by a large pike (Esox lucius) (CW). Observed at six other localities with a max of 12 at BGP on 30th. Dec. (PHD).

BLACK-NECKED GREBE P nigricollis A rare passage migrant. Single noted at WGP on 24th. April (AHE/AM); 8th. June (CW); 21st. Aug. (AM); 18th. Aug. (PHD) 12th. Sept. (CW) and 22nd. Oct. (AHE/AM). An adult seen in full summer plumage at WGP on 24th Oct. (AHE) and Little Berrington (CW). Also noted at BGP on 16th. Oct. (PHD). All sightings appear to relate to the same bird. This is the 4th. record for the County. The last record being on the Wye at Litley Court, Hampton Bishop on 2nd. Jan. 1956.

170 GREAT CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo A regular winter visitor. Recorded mainly along the Wye and BGP during the periods Jan. - April and Aug. - Dec. However there are more sightings this year at other locations. The largest count recorded was 46 at Carey Islands on 31st. Dec. (CW). The maximum monthly counts at BGP and Criftin Ford Bridge were:- Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Ju. Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec BGP 20 15 5 7 2 3 6 8 18 26 25 Criftin Ford 20 15 15 11 24 22 Other large counts: 17 at How Caple Wye on 6th. Nov. (R&JM); 12 at Castleton Wye on 28th. Oct. (GSBIPJEIKAM) and 10 at Symonds Yat on 10th. Feb. (RHD). Reports have been received ofsightings ofless than five birds on the Wye at Hereford and Fawley, the Monnow at Kentchurch, Hartleton Lake, Backney Wye, the Lugg at Wergins Bridge, Lugg Bridge Farm and Lugg Meadows, Amberley Court, Eywood Pool, Leach Pool, Letton Irrigation Lake, MGP (1st record) and WGP.

GREY HERON Ardea cinerea A breeding resident, widely reported throughout the County this year. Nesting records were submitted from Berrington with 16 nests (19) (PJE), Leach Pool with 13 nests (13) and Weston Pool with 11 nests (9) (SPC). Figures in parentheses show comparison with 1993. The larger counts were 7 at Eyton, 7 at Hunderton Rough, 6 at Kentchurch, 5 at MGP, 5 at Hereford Wye and 4 flying over Kington.

MUTE SWAN Cygnu8 olor A fairly common resident in suitable habitat. Widely reported throughout the County with breeding confirmed at BGP, Criftin Ford Bridge, Eywood Pool, MGP, Little Berrington, Lugg Bridge Farm, Backney Wye, River Wye at Carey and Hoarwithy . The larger counts for the year were: c100 at Fownhope Wye on 29th. Jan. (D&JT); c105 at Fownhope Wye on 8th Feb. (KAM); 85 at Clifford Wye on 31st Dec. (PHD); 69 at the same location on 20th. Dec. (C&JP); 34-50 on Wye, between Wilton and Pencraigfrom Jan. to March (RHD); c40 at Letton Wye on 23rd. Jan. (PHD); 35 at Putson Wye on 25th. Sept. (R&JM); 34 at Wergins Bridge on 2nd Jan. and 31 at Wilton Wye on 20th. Dec. (I&EE). There was a report ofa fatality due to a collision with a vehicle on Ross-on­ Wye By Pass on 11th Nov.

171 TUNDRASWAN C. columbianus A fairly regular winter visitor and passage migrant mainly to the western flood plains of the River Wye. There have been more sightings away from this area which still appears to be the most favoured locality. 3 adults and 3 juvs. were seen at Backney Wye on 1st. Jan. (AHE); 7 adults and 2 juvs. on floodwater at Leominster bypass on 9th. Jan. (PHD); there were several sightings of3 or 4 at Bredwardine Wye during Jan. and Feb. (S&LC); 16 at Kings Caple Wye on 26th. Feb. (FRF) and 14 adults with 4 juvs. at Kings Caple Wye on 28th Feb. (KAM). 5 at Letton on 16th. Dec. (GSBIPJEIKAM/ CW) was the first sighting for this species for the second winter period. Other sightings were: 4 at Clifford Wye on 26th. Dec. (PHD); 13 at Huntsham Bridge Wye between 28th. and 30th. Dec. (RHD); 4 at Winforton Wye on 30th. Dec. (PHD) and c10 at Castleton Wye on 31st Dec. (PGG).

WHOOPER SWAN C. cygnus A fairly regular winter visitor and passage migrant mainly to the western flood plains ofthe River Wye. Only one record this year, 1 at Clifford Wye on 26th. Dec. (PHD).

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE Anser brachyrhynchus A rare winter visitor. 1 bird sighted at WGP. on 15th Oct. (PHD) and BGP. on 28th.Oct. (GSBIPJEIKAM). (Presumably the same bird. Ed.)

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE A. albifrons A rare winter visitor. 1 seen at BGP on 2nd. Jan. (RM) and one first winter bird seen between 4th. and 9th. Feb. at two locations close to the River Lugg, always with Canada Geese (CW). Also noted during the 2nd. winter period of 1993. (Presumably the same bird. Ed).

GREYLAG GOOSE A. anser A rare winter visitor. 1 sighted at BGP. on 30th Jan.(PHD).

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis This ornamental species has become established in Britain as a result of escapes and deliberate releases and is now included in Catagory C of the British List. A common resident in suitable habitat. Breeding confirmed at Amberley Court (5), Belmont Pool (1), BGP (15), Cadbury Lagoons (12), Little Berrington (5), Lugg Bridge Farm (3) and Eccleswall Court, Bromsash (2). Figures in parentheses show the numbers ofgoslings for that site.

172 The maximum monthly counts were:- Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep act Nav Dec BGP 106 98 144 299 137 92 Lugg Br Farm 152 96 15 2 5 c269 308 MGP 20 32 40 19 59 37 2 2 The largest count recorded was c430 at Castleton Wye on 28th. Oct. (GSBI PJEIKAM) with other large counts as follows: 331 at Monnington Wye on 7th. Oct. (CW); c250 at Tidnor Lugg on 30th. Dec. (AHEIKAM); c180 at Eywood Pool on 9th. Oct. (C&JP); 150 at Lugg Flats on 10th. Dec. (I&EE) and 120 at Letton Irrigation Lake on 4th. Dec. (EAM) Observed elsewhere during the year at Cadbury's Lagoons, Flintsham, Fownhope Wye, Hartleton, Hereford Wye, Holme Lacy, Kenchester, Kentchurch, Leintwardine, Ruxton, Shobdon and Weston- under- Penyard.

BARNACLE GOOSE B. leucopsis A rare vagrant.All the sightings this year relate to feral birds escaped from captivity. These birds are resident in and around the BodenhamfWellington area. Breeding was confirmed.

BRENTGOOSE B. bernicla A rare winter visitor. A single dark bellied bird was resident at Letton Irrigation Lake from 13th. to 15th. Mar. (EAM) and was observed by several members. Ed. This is only the 4th record for the County. The previous record being at Hampton Bishop on 18th. Dec. 1987. (J.L. Fox)

COMMON SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna A scarce passage migrant. Four sightings as follows: 3m. + 2f. on a flooded Stoke Prior football pitch on 20th. Feb. (PHD); 1 on the flood plain Leominster bypass on 27th. Feb. (TCC); 1 at WGP on 1st. Oct. (CW) and 1 at Stretton Sugwas SP on 5th. Dec. (PJE).

MANDARIN DUCK Aix galericulata This ornamental species has become established in Britain as a result of escapes and deliberate releases and is now included in Catagory C of the British List. Sighted as follows: 1m. at The Castle Pool, Hereford, (this being the only remains ofthe City Moat) on 3rd. Jan. (NCP); 1m. +H. at Wyastone Leys Wye on 5th. Jan. (T. Hulmel; 1m. + H. at Eastnor Castle Estate on 14th. Jan. (CW); 2m. at Lions Den Wye on 21st. Oct. (SPC) and 4 (3m. & If.) flew from stream atAston Mills on 18th. Dec. (AHE).

173 EURASIAN WIGEON Anas penelope A locally common winter visitor and passage migrant recorded from 10 localities. The monthly maxima at the main sites were:- Jan Feb Mar Apr Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec BGP 103 125 27 1 1 40 55 180 Castleton Wye 25 65 35 42 16 60 Criftin Ford 25 12 11 WGP 2 5 13 Elsewhere there were 4 at Leach Pool on 25th. Oct. (PGG); a single f. at Hartleton Lake on 4th. Sept. and a single m. on 12th. Nov. (AHE); 4 at Eywood Pool on 16th. Oct. (J&CP); 150 at Letton Lake on 4th. Dec. (EAM); 16 at Warlow Pool on 21st Dec. (PGG); 5 at Combe Moor on 23rd. Dec. (RM) and 3 at the same place on 20th. Feb. (PHD).

GADWALL A. strepera A scarce breeding bird introduced into England about 1850 with further introductions in the 1960s and 1970s to Gloucestershire and Lancashire. 1 - 12 birds noted during the periods Jan. -April and Sept. - Dec. at BGP, WGP, Castleton Wye, Hole-in-Wall Wye, Kenchester, Hartleton Lake and Fawley. The recorder would welcome any evidence ofbreeding.

COMMON TEAL A. crecca Fewer records received of this fairly common winter visitor and rare breeder. The monthly maxima at the following sites are tabulated as available:- Jan Feb Mar Apr Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec BGP 20 4 1 20 30 Castleton Wye c15 15 10 14 3 Criftin Ford 40 60 4 70 Eywood Pool 30 9 2 20 30 33 33 The other records received were c40 at Combe Moor on 22nd. Feb. (PHD); 16 at Fawley on 25th. Feb. (FRF); 6 at Eastnor on 10th. March (CW); 2 at Leintwardine on 24th. March (I&EE); c15 at WGP on 1st. Sept. (PHD); 2 at Kenchester on 3rd. Sept. (PHD); c20 at Leach Pool on 25th. Oct. (PGG); 22 at Lugg Meadows on 24th. Dec. (GSB) and c25 at Hartleton Lake on 29th. Dec. (AHE).

174 MALLARD A. platyrhynchos A common breeding resident and winter visitor. Numerous records from 18 localities. The larger counts were 96 at Backney Wye on 11th. Feb. (AHE); c150 at Hartleton Lake on 22nd. Aug. (AHE); 116 at Castleton Wye on 7th. Nov. (SPC) and 104 at WGP on 19th. Nov. (PHD). Breeding noted at Weston Hall Lakes, Lugwardine, Bollitree, Castlebrook, Little Brampton, Holmer Pond, Putson Wye, Belmont Pool and MGP. At MGP c50 were concentrated on one small shallow pool where they appeared to be feeding on yng. frogs Rana temporaria and possibly emerging odonata. The same concentration on the same small pool at the same time ofthe year was recorded in 1987. At both times several Grey Herons were also present.

NORTHERN PINTAIL A. acuta An uncommon winter visitor. The only record a single f. at Hartleton Lake on 20th.Aug. (AHE).

GARGANEY A. querquedula A rare summer migrant. A 1st year or f. was seen at Wellington Gp. on 23rd.Aug. (PHD).

NORTHERN SHOVELER A. clypeata A scarce visitor throughout the year. Few records for the first winter period, 1m. at BGP on 6th. Feb. and 1 at WGP on 17th. Feb. (PHD); 1m. at Leach Pool on 1st. & 11th. March (SPC) and 1m. at Flintsham Pool on 19th. April (C&JP).A pr. observed at Kenchester on 1st June (GSB). During the second winter period one or two sighted at BGP, Eywood Pool, Tidnor Lugg, WGP and a max. of 12 at Leach Pool on 25th. Oct. (PGG).

COMMON POCHARD Aythya ferina A fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. The monthly maxima at the following sites are tabulated as available:- Jan Feb Mar Apr Aug Sep Oct. Nov Dec BGP 65 69 57 7 1 14 75 50 75 Eywood 7 7 10 1 4 10 12 27 MGP 5 1 8 3 3 7 WGP 8 40 32 25 1 - 8 birds noted Oct. - March at Leach Pool, Flintsham Pool, Castleton Wye, Woolhope and Hartleton Lake.

175 TUFTED DUCK A. fuligula A common resident and winter visitor. The monthly maxima at the following sites are tabulated as available:- Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec BGP 113 23 90 70 64 Eywood 30 27 44 18 16 20 12 12 12 MGP 28 17 37 30 20 16 22 27 WGP 34 6 16 37 29 53 51 Also noted at Haygrove, Woolhope,Amberley Court, Kenchester, Lugg Bridge Farm, Cadbury Lagoons, Flintsham Pool and Stansbatch. Breeding confirmed at MGP, Stretton SP and Eywood Pool.

GREATER SCAUP A. marila A scarce winter visitor. A first winter male remained at BGP until 22nd Jan. having been observed since 1st. Jan. (RMlPGGIPHD). lfwas observed at BGP. on 16th. Oct., and 1 imm at WGP. on 26th. Nov. (PHD).

COMMON SCOTER Melanitta nigra A rare winter visitor. 1 drake was seen at WGP. on 19th. Feb. (PHD) the 11th. Herefordshire record.

COMMON GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula A scarce winter visitor. As in previous years BGP continues to dominate sightings for this species. The exceptional deep water, (59 metres) contributes to this. Monthly counts at BGP were:- Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5f 1m 3f 1m 4f 4f 2f 1m 6f The only other sightings: If. at Castleton Wye on 17th. Jan. (KAM) and a pr. at Turners Boat on 20th. March (AHE).

GOOSANDER Merganser merganser A scarce breeding bird. Breeding recorded at two locations, Lions Den, where 3 yng. fldgd. (SPC) and Criftin Ford Bridge where 8 yng. fldgd. (RM/PHD).As in previous years the vast majority ofrecords relate to the Rivers Wye and Teme in keeping with the favoured habitat, however the largest concentrations appear to be at Eywood Pool. The larger counts were: 4m. 3 imm. m. & 12f. at Eywood Pool on 27th. Feb. (PHD); 17 at Castleton Wye on 3rd. March (KAM); 13 at Sink Green on 3rd. June (KAM); 2m. & 25 redheads at Eywood Pool on 30th. Oct. (PHD); 34 on

176 2nd. Nov. (C&JP) and 15 on 2nd. Dec. (TD) and 7m. & 16f. at Shobdon on 27th. Dec. (RM).Also seen at Eaton Bishop Wye, Fownhope Wye, Backney Wye, Hampton Bishop Wye, Hereford Wye, Leintwardine, MGP, Warlow Pool and Wilton Wye. NOTE: The Ministry ofAgriculture, Fisheries and Food granted a licence authorising the shooting ofthis species.

RUDDY DUCK Oxyura jamaicensis A scarce breeding bird This ornamental species has become established in Britain as a result of escapes and deliberate releases and is now included in Catagory C of the British List. Observed at BGP, Eywood Pool, MGP and WGP. Breeding was recorded at one location in Marden, where from a brood of5 ducklings 3 were known to have survived through to autumn.

RED KITE Milvus milvus Still a rare vagrant. Several sightings in the areas ofBodenham, Criftin Ford Bridge, Olchon Valley and Kington. A single bird was seen in the vicinty of Weobley between 16th. Sept. and 23rd. Oct. During Sept. 1 ringed juv. of this year (Aberystwyth area) was found dead in the Leintwardine area, it was too badly decomposed to establish the cause of death (per Welsh Red Kite Group).

NORTHERN GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis A rare breeding resident with breeding confirmed within the County (per Forest Enterprise). Again fourteen sightings of this secretive species reported including some new areas. There is no doubt that the Goshawk is spreading its terriororial range. Ed.

EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK A. nisus A fairly common breeding resident with breeding confirmed at one location. Regularly observed in the vicinty of garden bird tables.

COMMON BUZZARD Buteo buteo A widely distributed breeding resident, recorded throughout the year. The larger counts were 15 at Hergest Croft Estate during late Sept. (Mr. Evan Willams); 10 at Pembridge on 5th. Feb. (DHW); 9 at Covenhope on 27th. Feb. (PHD); 7 at Hoarwithy on 8th. May (C&LS) and 7 in the Olchon Valley on 15thApr. (CW).

177 OSPREY Pandion haZiaetus A rare passage migrant. One stayed at Bredwardine for two days on 27th. and 28th. May and a single also noted on 22nd. and 23rd. Sept. (L&SC), also seen on the River Teme near Leintwardine in June and Sept. (per. P. Faulkener and S. Pittam)

COMMON KESTREL FaZeo tinnuneuZus A widely distributed breeding resident, recorded throughout the year.

MERLIN F. eoZumbarius A rare resident. Five sightings mainly in the west of the County in Jan., Feb., Mar., May and July.

HOBBY F. subbuteo A scarce summer visitor. Breeding once again confirmed at one location in the heart ofthe County. Recorded throughout the summer, on many occasions seen chasing hirundines. First sighted at BGPon 23rd.Apr. (PHD) with the last sighting at Much Marcle on 10th. Sep. (MP).

PEREGRINE FALCON F. peregrinus A rare resident and passage migrant. Unfortunately breeding not reported within the County this year. Widely reported throughout the year from various localities.Ajuv. m. was observed to kill a Lapwing Vanellus vanellus in the Shobdon area on 19th. Nov. (PHD). It was driven offby 5 corvids.

RED GROUSE Lagopus Zagopus The only sighting received ofthe small Herefordshire population was 5 noted in the Olchon Valley on 27th. May (RM).

RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE AZeetoris rufa The larger counts were 5 at Burrington on 9th. Jan. (RM); 24 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 29th. Sept. (PHD); 26 near Ivington on 24th. Nov. (HTR) and 6 at Leintwardine on 27th. Dec. (I&EE). 1-2 birds were seen during the year at Upper Sapey, Crifton Ford, Shenmore, Bredwardine, Brilley, Bromsash, Brobury and Hergest Ridge. Breeding noted at ShobdonAirfield on 8th.Aug. (MFP) and Shobdon Industrial Estate on 21st. Aug. (PHD).

178 GREY PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix The only covey reports were of 16 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 29th. Sept. (PHD); 7 at Bromsash on 1st. Jan. (AHE); 3 prs. at Marcle Hill on 11th. - 15th. May and 14 at Much Marcle on 19th.Aug. (RJ). Elsewhere 1- 3 were noted throughout the year at Bidney, Sollarshope, Brobury, Fownhope, Stansbatch, Pembridge, Backney Wye, Capler Hill, Bradnor Hill and Stretford Bridge. DHW noted f. with 2 yng. at Fownhope on 15th. March.

COMMON QUAIL Coturnix coturnix A rare summer visitor and occasional breeder. This year's records were exceptional having been received from 8 different locations. The first was at Bromsash on 14th. May and heard regularly until 12th. July, with a single bird seen on 3rd. July (AHE); 2m. calling, from separate locations, in the Michaelchurch area on 1st. June (MFP); heard calling at Gamber Valley in June (PS); single bird heard frequently at Milton Cross 15th.-26th. (PHD); single heard calling atMarcle Ridge on 29th. June (FRF); 1 heard at Hergest on 21st. July (B&HD); 1m. noted at Canon Pyon 17th.-19th. July (FSB) and the last calling bird reported was at Preston-on-Wye on 15th.Aug. (MJW).

COMMON PHEASANT Phasianus colchicus A common breeding resident, Britain's most numerous gamebird, is believed to have been introduced in the 14th. century. Noted throughout the year at Belmont, Hunderton, Holmer, Sollarshope, Bartonsham,Aconbury, Weston, Linton, Little Dewchurch, Pengethley, Peterchurch, Bromsash, Dinmore, Fownhope, Grafton, Old Gore, The Callow, Checkley, Shobdon and Leintwardine.

WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus An extremely poor year for records with sightings submitted from only 2 locations. Several birds heard calling at Combe Moor on 2nd. Jan. and a single calling at BGP on 28th. Oct. (RM).

MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus A widespread and fairly common breeding resident. Breeding confirmed at Holmer, BGP, Kenchester, Hartleton Lake, Marden, Garway, Lugg Meadows, Belmont, Woolhope,Aston Crews, Putson, Shobdon, Hunderton, Eywood Pool, Weston-under-Penyard and Castleton.

179 COMMONCOOT Fulica atra A common breeding resident in suitable habitat. The larger counts were 104 at BGP on 9th. Jan. and 99 at WGP on 12th. Sept. (CW); 43 at MGP on 30th. Jan. and confirmation that 3 prs. raised a min. of7juv. (PGG). Breeding also noted at Bromsash on 20th. July (ARE). Smaller counts were received throughout the year from the aforementioned sites as well as at Marden, Eywood Pool, Fawley, Ledbury Lagoons and Flintsham.

OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus The Sea-pie is a rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Only 2 records were received, a single noted in flight between Hunderton and Greyfriars Bridge, Hereford on 16th. Feb. (KPT) and 2 at WGP on 27th. Nov. (PHD).

COLLARED PRATINCOLE Glareola pratincola A very rare accidental visitor to this country from southern Europe.A single adult noted at Lugg Bridge Farm on 20th. May (CW). This is only the second Herefordshire record ofthis species. The only other confirmed record was of one shot at Fownhope in 1854. Ed.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius An exceptionally good year for records with breeding confirmed at 3 sites. DuringAug. 1 - 6 birds were noted together on passage at 4 locations.

GREAT RINGED PLOVER C. hiaticula An uncommon passage migrant. 3 adults feeding with Dunlin at WGP on 7th. Aug. (PHD) and a single at the same site on 3rd. Dec. (ARE/AMIPHD). Adult noted at Leach Pool on 12th.Aug. (KAM/GSB).

EUROPEAN GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria A large flock was noted at Milton Cross on 1st. Jan. and remained in the area until 4th.April and was reported by a number ofobservers with a max. ofc300 on 15th. Jan. (PHD). During this period smaller flocks were seen at Grafton, Humber, Shobdon and Stoke Prior. The last recorded were 8 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 23rd.April (PHD). First autumn arrivals were c150 at Milton Cross on 29th. Sept. (PHD). Subsequently 200 were noted at this site on 18th. Oct. (J&CP); clOO at Pembridge/Shobdon on 14th. Nov. (KAMlPJE); 188 at Upper LuggMeadow on 27th. Nov. (GSB); C220 at Lower Lugg Meadow on 30th. Dec. (CW); and cllO at Lugwardine Cross on 30th. Dec. (PHD). Smaller flocks were noted at Hampton Bishop, Wapley Hill, WGP and Hergest.

180 NORTHERN LAPWING Vanellus vanellus

A scarce breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. During the first winter period the larger flocks were c500 at Milton Cross on 15th. Jan. (PHD); 180 at Swainshill on 16th. Jan. (MW); c150 at Ledbury on 27th. Jan. (RWR); c600 near Glewstone on 30th. Jan. (RHD) and c600 at Stoke Prior on 20th. Feb. (PHD) with smallernumbers noted at Hildersley, Rudhall, Weston­ under-Penyard, Pontrilas, Kings Caple, Criftin Ford Bridge, Wolferlow, Bishopstone, Garway, Marden, Dilwyn, Castleton, St. Weonards, Blakemere, Lower LLugg Flats, Lugg Bridge Farm, BGP and Three Elms, Hereford. Although displaying birds were noted at a small number of sites the only confirmed breeding record received was from Garway (JRP). Return passage was observed from late July with post-breeding flocks of 180 at Kenchester on 24th. July (P&JE); 383 at Stretton Sugwas on 7th. Aug. (CW); c200 at Milton Cross on 18th. Oct. (J&CP); and c600 there on 19th. Noy. (PHD); c140 at Marden on 22nd. Oct. (ARE/AM); c320 at Eastnor on 29th. Oct. (PGG); c250 at Madley on 21st. Noy. (RGD); c150 at Kingstone on 25th. Nov. (JRP); cl00 at Dorstone on 26th. Nov. (EAM); 235 at Lugg Meadow Pool on 27th. Noy. (GSB); c500 on Lugg Flats on 10th. Dec. (I&EE); 120 at Upper Sapey on 15th. Dec. (MW); c250 near WGP on 18th. Dec. and c200 at Lugwardine on 27th. Dec. (PHD); c300 at Ledbury on 20th. Dec. (RWRO; c150 near lvington on 27th. Dec. (HTR); c200 at Lower Lugg Meadow on 29th. Dec. (CW) and 125 at Hampton Bishop on 29th. Dec. (PGG). Smaller flocks ofpass-age birds were seen at MGP, ShobdonAirfield, Criftin Ford, Longtown, Abbeydore and Castleton. An exceptional year for records ofa species that has been on the decline, nationally, in recent years Ed.

DUNLIN Calidris alpina Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. 2 noted in winter plumage at Stoke Prior on 20th. Feb. and still present on 21st. Feb.Asingle at WGP, feeding with Ringed Plover, on 7th.Aug., ajuy. on 19th. Nov. and an adult on 4th. Dec. Singles noted at BGP on 3rd. Dec. and Milton Cross on 4th. Dec. (PHD). Singles noted byAHE/AM at WGP on 22nd. Oct. and BGP on 3rd. Dec.

RUFF Philomachus pugnax A rare passage migrant. Single reeve noted at MGP on 2nd. May (PGG).

181 JACK SNIPE Lymnocryptes minimus Winter visitor and passage migrant. A single seen at Newhouse Wood on 1st. Jan. (RM); 2-5 birds noted at MGP between 2nd. Jan. - 20th. March and a remarkably late sighting at Cefn Hill on 23rd. April. During the second winter period 1 - 7 birds were seen on passage at MGP between 26th. Oct. and 29th. Dec. (PGG).

COMMON SNIPE Gallinago gallinago

The larger numbers noted Jan.-April were 19 at Castleton on 1st. Jan. and 20 at Combe Moor on 14th. April (RM); c15 at Combe Moor on 20th. Feb. (PHD) and 18 at Humber Marsh on 25th. March (KAMlPJE). MGP held between 6-15 during this period and c12 at Cefn Hill on 4th. April (PGG). Later in the year, Oct.-Dec., the larger sightings were c12 at Bishopstone on 16th. Dec. (KAMlPJE/GSB); 47 at St. Weonards on 31st. Dec. (MW) and 14­ 18 present at MGP during this period (PGG). Smaller numbers were noted throughout the year at Leach Pool, WGP, Lugwardine, BGP, Lugg Meadows, Bishopstone, Fownhope, Castleton, Kenchester, Fawley, Lugg Bridge and the Olchon Valley.

WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticola The only record received was of3 birds roding over Dinmore Wood on 31st. May (PHD). A very much overlooked species.

BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Limosa limosa A rare vagrant. Single noted, in winter plumage, at BGP on 3rd. Dec. (PHD).

WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus A rare passage migrant. 2 records only, a single at Castleton Wye on 24th. April (AHE/AM) and 8 noted at MGP on 10th. Aug., a new bird for this site (PGG).

EURASIAN CURLEW N. arquata Breeding was confirmed at only 2 sites, in the Pembridge area, where 2 prs. nested (DHW) and at Bredwardine where 4 adults were seen with 2 juv's. (MJW). Reports of displaying males were noted in April - June at Dilwyn, Weobley, Eardisland and WGP.

182 The larger herds reported in the early part of the year were 35 at Leintwardine on 9th. Jan. (I&EE) and 64 at Criftin Ford Bridge on 13th. March (PHD). During the second winter period the only large herd reported was 33 at Criftin Ford Bridge on 31st. Dec. (PHD). Elsewhere 1 - 7 birds were noted during Spring/earlyAutumn at Bishopstone, MGP, Sink Green, Combe Moor, Kyre, Broadheath, Kinnersley, Clifford, Newton St. Margarets, Much Marcle, Ewyas Harold Common, Lugg Bridge, 'fupsley, Arrow Fishery, Cholstrey, Wharton and WGP.

SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus A rare vagrant.A single noted calling in flight over WGP on 1st. Sept. (PHD).

COMMON REDSHANK T. totanus Passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Single birds were noted at MGP on 19th. June (PGG); Monnington Falls on 8th. July where it was observed feeding and in flight (MJW); Letton Lake on 10th. July (EAM) and WGP on 29th. Oct. (PHD) and 30th. Oct. (ARE/AM).

COMMON GREENSHANK T. nebularia A passage migrant.An excellent year for records with reports received from 5 different locations. The first noted was a single bird at Kenchester on 2nd. Aug. (KAMlPJE) with 3 at this site on 7th. Aug. (S&LC). Single birds were seen at WGP on 13th. Aug., 12th. and 18th. Sept. (PHD); Stretton Sugwas on 7th. Sept. and Lugg Bridge Farm on 5th. Sept. (CW); Hampton Bishop on 12th. Sept. (BEM) and the last reported sighting was from Stretton Sugwas on 15th. Oct. (KAM).

GREEN SANDPIPER T. ochropus Recorded in all months ofthe year, 1-6 noted at Criftin Ford Bridge, MGP, Stretton Sugwas, Kenchester, Lugg Bridge, WGP, Leach Pool, Fownhope, BGP, Llangiwa, Burrington and Castleton.

COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos Breeding summer visitor. The first report was a single bird at Castleton on 4th. April noted separately by (PGG) & (RM). The largest groupings were 6 prs. Castleton Wye on 24th.April (AHE/AM); 3 prs. at Burrington on 26th. May (RM); 6 in flight along the R. Wye at Putson on 30th. June (R&JM) and 7 at WGPon 9th. July (PHD). 1-4 wewre noted at BGP, Holme Lacy, Combe Moor, Criftin Ford Bridge, MGP, Kentchurch, Eywood Pool, Llaniwa, Lugg Bridge and Kenchester. The last sighting was a single at WGP on 8th. Oct. (PHD).

183 LITTLE GULL Larus minutus A second winter Little Gull noted at Kenchester on 31st. July (AHE/GRP). A good find ofthis tiny gull which is a rare vagrant to Herefordshire and only the 5th. record for the County, the last at BGP on 7th. May 1991. They normally breed in north-eastern Europe with a few colonies along the Baltic and North Sea coasts. It was added to the British list as a breeding species as a result ofunsuccessful breeding attempts in England in 1975,1978 and 1987.

BLACK-HEADED GULL L. ridibundus Recorded throughout the year but breeding not confirmed. The majority of records were from the winter periods Jan-March and Oct.-Dec. The only large counts were c300 at Stoke Prior on 20th. Feb. (PHD); c300 Castleton Wye 20th. March (AHE/AM); c1,200 near Ledbury on 24th. Oct. (PGG); c200 at Bartonsham on 3rd. Nov. (R&JM) and c400 at Garway on 3rd. Dec. (JRP). Smaller flocks ofup to 100 gulls were noted at Lugg Meadows, Holme Lacy, WGP, Holmer, Castleton, Hunderton and Broomy Hill.

COMMON GULL L. canus Mainly a winter visitor but non-breeding birds are occasionally seen in summer. The larger counts were c220 at Newton on 17th. Jan. (RGD); c500 at Holme Lacy on 19th. March (PHD); c250 at Bromsash on 27th. March and c400 on 17th. Sept. (AHE) and 168 at Upper Lugg Meadows on 10th. Dec. (GSB). Elsewhere smaller flocks were noted at Holmer, Bartonsham, Hunderton, Broomy Hill, Elton Marsh and Eastnor.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL L. fuscus The only breeding record was, once again, at the Inco Factory, Hereford City, the 3rd. year that this species has bred at this locality (KAM). The larger counts were 200 - 400 at WGP throughout Aug. and c1,100 near Leominster on 11th. Dec. (PHD); 237 at Lower Lugg Meadow on 12th. Dec. (GSB) and c300 at Holme Lacy on 30th. Dec. (CW). Smaller flocks were noted at BGP, Hunderton, Broomy Hill, Bartonsham, Ivington, Stretton Sugwas, Berrington, Castleton, Putson and Newton St. Margarets.

HERRING GULL L. argentatus Singles ofthis uncommon winter visitor noted at BGP on 29th. Jan. (PHD); Bath Street, Hereford on 16th. Aug. (TCC) and one with Black- Headed Gulls at Bartonsham on 19th. Nov. (R&JM).

184 YELLOW·LEGGED GULL L. cachinnans A scarce visitor from the Mediterranean basin. A single adult, in winter plumage, was noted feeding with a large flock ofLesser Black-backed Gulls on Lower Lugg Meadows on 12th. Dec. and was relocated the next day in the same area (GSB). Previously considered to be a sub-species ofthe Herring Gull but recently added to the British list as a separate species. Since 1973 numbers of sightings in southeast England have increased and they are increasingly recorded in the West Midland Bird Club area. '!\vo previous records, both at Stretton Sugwas, in July 1989 and Oct. 1990. It is highly likely that that this species will be recorded more frequently in the future.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL L. marinus A single noted in flight, over Hereford City, with several Common and Black­ headed Gulls on 5th.Aug. (TCC).

COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo 2 birds flew through on passage, in a south-westerly direction, over WGP on 27th.Aug. (PHD) and an imm. noted fishing and being constantly harrassed by Black-headed Gulls at Hampton Bishop on 12th. Sept. (JW-J).

BLACK TERN Chlidonias niger Single noted at WGP on 23rd. Aug. (PHD).

This, the smallest of the auk family and sometimes called the Dovekie, is accidental to Herefordshire. One probably flew into a window at Dilwyn on 6th. Dec. and was brought in by a cat (SP). This was an extremely unusual record as these birds are only driven inland by severe westerly or north easterly gales such as the one that caused the great "Auk wreck" ofFeb. 1983 along Britain's east coast.As a result ofthis gale over 6000 dead birds, including over 200 Little Auks, were found in Norfolk alone. They breed in huge colonies in USSR, Spitsbergen, Greenland, Bear Island and a few pairs on Grinsey Island, Iceland. They winter in the North Sea and northernAtlantic Ocean. Weather conditions were not severe at the time and the bird appeared to be in good condition and not emaciated. The only other Herefordshire record was ofone at Canon Pyon, just 4 miles from Dilwyn, on 23rd. Dec. 1938.

185 STOCK DOVE Columba oenas Although reported from 15 areas within the County this species is believed to be under recorded. RM noted c300 at Criftin Ford on 3rd. Jan. TCC recorded the following at Tyrrells Court:- 8/1 9/1 23/1 20/2 27/2 25/3 3/4 11/4 10/5 13/5 30 14 30 40-50 c160 16 19 10 3 8 PGG noted a flock of c250 in a stubble field between Criftin Ford and Totteridge Hill, they flew into conifers on Totteridge Hill to roost where they were joined by another flock almost halfas big boosting their numbers to c350. Also noted at Garway, Belmont, Leintwardine, Stretford Bridge, Eastnor, Stoke Hill,Amberley Court, Marden, Linton and Stretton Sugwas.

WOOD PIGEON C. palumbus An abundant breeding resident and winter visitor. The larger flocks were c60 at Lower Weston on 8th. Jan. (DWT); c1000 near Downton Castle on 16th. Jan. (PHD); 120 at Lugg Mills also on 16th. Jan. (NCP); c100 near Kington on 4th. Feb. & c100 at Shucknall on 12th. Dec. (1&EE); 39 at St. Margarets on 5th. Feb. (RGD); c500 at Linton on 27th. Feb. (ARE); c50 at Holmer on 5th. Oct. (JA); 263 on Upper Lugg Meadows on 24th. Dec. (GSB) and up to 32 seen regularly at Bartonsham Oct. - Dec. (R&JM).

COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto Very few records received of this widespread breeding resident. Only confirmed breeding was from Putson where R&JM noted fldg. on 5th.April. Prs. frequently noted at KingsAcreApril- Dec. (D&JT); Holmer Oct. - Dec. (JA) and Weston-under-Penyard Nov. - Dec. (DWT). The only flocks noted were 20+ atWeston-under-Penyard on 22nd. Feb. (DWT) and 30+ at Lyonshall on 17th. Oct. (1&EE).

TURTLEDOVE S. turtur The first report of this summer visitor was again from Ewyas Harold Common where it was noted by D&JT on 8th. May. Succeeding records were a single at Wapley Hill on 10th. May (HTR); 1 at Rowlstone also on 10th. May (RLW); 1 at Much Marcle on 11th. May (RJ); heard "purring" at Westhope Hill on 18th. May (KAM); 4 at Wapley Hill on 26th. May (RM); 7 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 29th. May (PHD); 6 at Burton Farm, Linton on 3rd. July (AHE/JRP); 1 at Ewyas Harold Common also on 3rd. July (RLW); 2 at ShobdonAirfield on 14th.Aug. (MFP) and last recorded at Common Hill on 15th.Aug. (KAM).

186 COMMON CUCKOO Cuculus canorus Very few records received. The first reported was at Holmer on the 10th. April (JA). At Stansbatch JMB noted a decrease from the previous year. Also noted between Mathon and the Malvern Hills on 21st. April (PGG); at Newton and Bodenham on 23rd. April (RGD & PHD); Castleton on 24th. April (ARE/AM); MGPon 28th. April (PGG); Tupsley on 1st. May & Olchon 6th. May O&EE); Dilwyn on 3rd. May (DHW); Wapley Hill on 10th. May (HTR) and a pr. at Marden on 15th. May (PHD).

BARN OWL 'J!yto alba A small decrease in records over 1993. Breeding confirmed at Madley with 2 yng. successfully reared (MJW). Reports of single birds came from Sollers Hope, Holmer Copse, Fownhope, Monkland, Dilwyn, Eardisland, Little Hereford, Eyton Common, Nupend, Staunton-on-Wye, Brobury, Kenchester, Goodrich, Bridge Sollers, Dilwyn, Garnons, May Hill, Ham Green, Lugwardine, Upper Maunde, Garway Hill, Milton Cross and Stretford Bridge. One found dead on roadside below Queen's Wood, Dinmore on 25th. Feb. (D&JT).

LITTLE OWL Athene noctua Introduced to Britain inthe 1870's it is now a fairly common breeding resident widespread throughout the County. The only breeding records were ofyng. seen on the road at Dilwyn on 24th.Aug. (DHW) and a nest with one nestling with a deformed leg in a Lyonshall garden on 17th. May (GHR). Numerous reports from 24 other locations. At MGP on 10th. Aug. 1 seen sheltering in mouth ofenlarged Sand Martin hole (PGG).

TAWNY OWL Strix aluco A common breeding resident. At Dorstone on 19th. May E&JM found an owlet on the ground, placed it in a temporary nest box where it was successfully fed by the parents and flew on the 23rd. May. They noted 2 owlets in a tree in the churchyard on 26th. May and a single being fed on the church roofon 26th. June.Also recorded from 15 other locations. One found dead onA4112 near Golden Cross on 25th. April (TCC).

LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus Single noted on Garway Hill on 16th. April (JRP). Also seen by KJR who noted erect ear-tufts and orange eyes and being mobbed by small birds on three occasions.

187 COMMON SWIFT Apus apus A common summer visitor and passage migrant. The first reported were 2 at Castleton Wye on the 24th. April (AHE/AM) and a single at MGP on the same date (PGG) with the main influx from the first week of May. Subsequently numerous reports were received from over 20 separate locations. The largest gatherings were c200 at BGP on 21st. May (PHD); c40 at MGP on 5th. June (PGG); c200 at Bishopstone on 5th. July (PJE); c30 at Widemarsh on 11th. July (D&JT) and clOO at Wormelow on 13th. July (JRP). DHW noted an increase at Dilwyn. An abnormally late sequence of records came from MGP - 9 on 10th. Aug., 15 on 18th. Aug., c20 on 20th.Aug., 1 on 29th. Aug. and 1 on 31st.Aug. which was the last ofthe year (PGG).

COMMON KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis A common resident widely distributed with numerous reports throughout the year. The only breeding record was of2 prs. on the River Monnow between Alltyrynys and Monmouth Cap (SJT).AtAlmeley in Dec. JLR noted 2 taking it in turns to fish successfully for yng. goldfish (Carassius auratus) in a lake. At Safeways car park, Hereford on 4th. Jan. one flew over following the underground course ofthe Widemarsh Brook (PGB).

GREEN WOODPECKER Picus uiridis Over 30 records received of this widely distributed species throughout the year with breeding confirmed at Dilwyn with fldg. seen and heard in Aug. (DHW); 2juv. at Weston-under-Penyard on 7th. July (DWT) and 6 juv. noted on fields near BGP Aug. - Sept. (PHD). At Dilwyn on the 26th. May DHW noted one feeding on poultry food in his neighbour's garden.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos major A common breeding resident with records throughout the year from all areas and frequently recorded at nut - feeders. Proved breeding at Newton on 20th. June (DH); Lugg Meadows, where 4 juv. were noted on 10th. June (G&MB) and Old CountryWood where young were noted on 11th. June (PGG).

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER D. minor True status ofthis elusive resident breeder is difficult to determine. Records similar to 1993 with observations from 15 localities. Only 2 breeding records received, 2 adults feeding 3 juv. on Lugg Meadows on 10th. June and adult m. withjuv. atAylestone Hill on 12th. June (G&MB).At Much Marcle JHM noted a single in a pear tree along with a Green Woodpecker and Treecreeper.

188 SKYLARK Alauda arvensis The only large flock noted during the first part of the year was 145 at Criftin Ford on 9th. Jan. (RM). During the breeding season records came from 19 localities with breeding noted in considerable numbers at Cefn Hill on 2nd. July (PGG). The most notable late season numbers were c200 at Bradnor Hill on 28th. Oct. (RM); c150 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 19th. Nov., c300 at Milton Cross on 19th. Nov. (PHD); c200 at Bishopstone on 28th. Nov. (PJEIKAM) and c300 were again seen at Milton Cross on 18th. Dec. (PHD).

SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia The first arrival to be noted was early, a single at Hartleton Lake on 4th. March (AHE) followed by a single at Preston-on-Wye on 11th. (MJW); 9­ 15 at BGP on 12th. (GSBIPHD) and 2 at Hartleton on 17th. March (D&JT). At BGP March/April totals recorded by PHD were:- 12th. 22nd. 27th. 29th. 1st. 2nd. 3rd. 4th. 15 25 40 30 200 150 300 100 130 nest holes at 6 sites on R. Monnow betweenAlltyrynys and Monmouth Cap including 80 near Llangiwa Church (SJT). At MGP 56 holes were counted on 11th. June much reduced by the 10th. Aug due to work at the pit but there were breeding successes and a few were still visiting nest holes on 20th. Aug. Last seen at Mathon on 31st. Aug. (PGG). 2 small colonies (12 and 15 holes) between Criftin Ford and Burrington Bridge (RM). 10 holes at Lugg Bridge Farm with young being fed on 17th. Aug. (CW). Late records were clOD resting on cable over river at Hoarwithy on 11th. Aug. (C&LS); c30 at Leitwardine on 23rd. Aug. (I&EE) and the last recorded were 19 at Arnberley Court on 21st. Sept. (CW).

BARN SWALLOW Hirundo rustica Common summer visitor. The first reported were early, 2 at BGP on 27th. March (PHD) followed by a few sightings of up to 4 birds with the main influx reported from several parts ofthe County from the 22nd.April. No breeding records were received but the larger post-breeding flocks noted were c200 at Hartleton Lake on 27th. July (AHE); c20 at Stretton Sugwas GP on 7th. Aug. (CW); 40 at Preston-on-Wye on 22nd. Aug. (MJW); c200 (with House Martins) atAconbury on 25th.Aug. (R&JM); 105 at Preston­ on-Wye on 30th.Aug. (MJW) and clOO at Hoarwithy on 15th. Sept. (C&LS). The latest noted were 3 at Bartonsham on 5th. Oct. (R&JM).

189 HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica The first sighting was a single at BGP on 3rd.April (PHD). Widely reported, including breeding records, from all parts of the County but again reports regarding status were varied: "Bred successfully at Holmer Church" (JA). "Ten years ago about 10 nests on house - this year no bird seen until July. I don't think any nested in the village" (MPW at Goodrich). "Increase this year - all usual sites occupied" (DHW at Dilwyn). The only large post-breeding flock noted was the mixed flock atAconbury on 25th.Aug. (R&JM). Late records were 3 at Hunderton on 6th. Oct. (KPT); 50+ at Seven Sisters Rock also on 6th. Oct. (JRP); a few at Hoarwithy on the 7th. Oct. (C&LS); c50 on West side ofMalvern Hills on 8th. Oct. (PGG); 2 at Bridge Sollars also on 8th. Oct. (SPC) and the last reported, a single at Shobdon on 15th. Oct. (PHD).

TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis Disappointing return ofonly 6 cards with records from just 7 localities. The first recorded was a single at May Hill on 23rd. April (AHE) followed by a single at Bircher Common on the 24th. (PHD) and 4 at Wapley Hill on 30th. April (JMB), also noted here by HTR and RM with probably 5 singing males. The only other records were 1 at Hergest Ridge on 2nd. May & 1 at Dinmore Wood on 2nd. May (PHD); 4 at Croft Ambrey on 7th. May (J&CP) and 3 in the Olchon Valley on 27th. May (RM).

MEADOW PIPIT A. pratensis Status unchanged. Abundant in favoured habitat. The larger counts were c100 at Combe Moor on 20th. Feb. (PHD); 20 at Coppett Hill on 22nd. Feb. (RHD); c10 at Fownhope on 12th. March (D&JT) and c30 in the Olchon Valley on 6th. May (I&EE). Also noted during the year from Merbach, Shobdon, Castleton Wye, Garway Hill, Oldcastle and Sutton Walls.

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava A better year for records ofthis fairly common summer visitor. The first recorded was 1m. at MGP on 6th. April (PGG) followed by 1m. on the R. Monnow near Kentchester on 24th. April (SJT). Reported thereafter from 20 localities with breeding proved at 10 localities. At WGP on 2nd. May PHD noticed 1 of4 birds with a 'washed out' appearance. This was possibly an example of leucism, a form of albinism, in which pigments are lost

190 from feathers but not from the rest of the body, a colour phase that is often referred to as 'dilute' birds. The last record ofthe year was at WGP on 21st. Sept. (PHD).

GREY WAGTAIL M. cinerea A widespread breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Reported in ones and twos, sometimes three, from numerous localities but the numbers are below those for 1993. The only breeding records received were of 2 nests on the R. Monnow near Kentchester on 24th. April (SJT); H. seen feeding young at Shellwick Green on 31st. May (PGG) and juv. noted at Hartleton Lake on 2nd. Aug. (AHE). Records received from Bredwardine, Leach Pool, Bartonsham, Wergins Bridge, Leintwardine, Olchon Valley, Hartleton, Hereford Wye, Hampton Dene, Linton, Ross-on­ Wye, Staunton-on-Arrow, Marden, Belmont, Bodenham, Aymestry Lugg, Upper Lye, Cadbury Lagoons and Tupsley. A flock of 15+ was noted near Llangiwa Church on 6th.Aug. (SJT).

PIED WAGTAIL M. alba Records refer to singles and prs. widely reported throughout the spring and summer months and to post breeding flocks/winter roosts. The larger gatherings were 200+ between Ryeland Street and Sainsburys on 9th. March (PJE); c900 at Mathon GP on 6th. April (PGG); c50 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 18th. July increasing to 200+ on 1st act. (PHD); c500 at High Town, Hereford on 9th. Dec. (K&CM) and 500+ at the same place on 7th. Jan. (NCP). Last recorded at High Town on 7th. Feb. Smaller flocks were 15+ at Kington on 21st. Aug. (DHW); c30 at Hereford Technical College playing fields during Oct. (JA) and 30+ at Tescos car park, Belmont on 19th. Oct. (RHS).At Preston-on-Wye on 10th. March, as he was cultivating a field, MJW noted 36 feeding in company with 26 Black-headed Gulls, 50 Rooks, 1 Jackdaw, 4 Skylarks, 2Yellow Hammers and 1 Meadow Pipit. White Wagtails (M. a. alba) were noted at Castleton on 4th.April (RM/PGG); BGP on 16th.April (PHD) and Castleton Wye on 24th. April (ARE/AM).

DIPPER Cinclus cinclus A resident with proved breeding at Eardisland with 1£. feeding yng. on 12th. June and juv. noted on 14 & 15th. Aug. (DHW) and nests with yng. on R Dore near Pontrilas and RMonnow at Llancillo, Alltyrynys, Goytre and Monmouth Cap (SJT). Pairs also noted at Olchon Brook, Longtown and Clodock, Dorstone, Aymestry Lugg, Criftin Ford Bridge and Staunton-on­ Arrow. Singles noted at Upper Lye Lugg, Bodenham Lugg, Leintwardine, Floodgates, Burrington Bridge and Ewyas Harold.

191 WREN Troglodytes troglodytes A very common breeding resident with numerous records from all parts of the County. At Garway Hill on 22nd. January JRP observed 18 roosting in an old House Martin's nest.

HEDGE ACCENTOR Prunella modularis Very few records received with returns from 12 localities, probably under recorded. The only indications ofbreeding were 3 prs. at Tupsley on 23rd. Feb. (GMJ); prs. displaying at Fawley on 29th. March (FRF); pr. regularly seen at PutsonApril/May (R&JM) and 2 prs. in the Olchon Valley on 9th. Feb. (I&EE).

ROBIN Erithacus rubecula Widespread and common throughout the year at numerous localities. The only breeding records were reported from Putson in June (R&JM) and 2 prs. at Holmer in July (JA). FRF noted 9 in song at Fawley on 29th. March.

RUFOUS NIGHTINGALE Luscinia megarhynchos A rare summer visitor first heard at Coddington on 27th. April and subsequently on 28th. April, 17th.l18th. and 21st-24th. May when it apparently stopped singing (ASP). The only other records were of 1 singing at Great Hayclose Coppice near Clencher's Mill on 30th.April (PGG) and at Fownhope on 11th.l12th. May (MB).

BLACK REDSTART Phoenicurus ochruros H. at Ham Green near Colwall seen most days from 9th. Jan. to early March (CB) and 1 at Bromyard Downs on 16th. Oct. (SW). Unusual to have two sightings of this species. Established as a breeding British species since colonising London bomb sites after the 2nd. World War this rare winter visitor has bred on one occasion.Although there was a possibility ofbreeding in 1958 when R.S.R. Fitter saw and heard a bird singing behind the Green Dragon on 24th. May the only positive breeding was at Painter Bros. Works where a pair successfully raised yng. in July 1988.

COMMON REDSTART P phoenicurus First ofthe year were 11 birds recorded in the Olchon Valley on 6th. May (I&EE). Fewer records than 1993 with birds reported from only 12 localities and only 1 breeding record, a pr. with fldg. at Boxer Castle on 24th. June (TCC). The last seen was 1 imm. at Stretford Bridge on 1st. September (TCC).

192 WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra Very few records received of this summer visitor. The first noted was a single male at Castleton Wye on 24th. April (AHE/AM). There were 2 records in May, at Shobdon Industrial Estate on the 7th. (PHD) and a singing male at Hergest Ridge on the 22nd. (KAM) and several noted here May-June (B&HD).Amale was noted in a wheatfield at Milton Cross on 18th. July (PHD). A pair was reported on 3rd. Sept. in cropped oil seed rape at Shobdon Industrial Estate (PHD). The last reported were 3 at Bradnor on 18th. Sept. (C&JP).

COMMON STONECHAT S. torquata Itis pleasing to note continuing records. There were 23 sightings including records from Bredwardine (SPC), High Vinnals and Little Black Hill (PHD). Pairs were reported at Hergest Ridge on 20th. March (RM), 7th. May (PHD) and 22nd. May (KAM) and throughout the summer by B&HD. Also noted on the Malverns on 17th. April (PGG). At Oldcastle on 21st. Aug. a female and 3 juv. were recorded (JRP).

NORTHERN WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe The earliest report was of 3m. at Hergest Ridge on 12th. March (B&HD). Good numbers were reported from the Olchon Valley and also from 12 other locations. The last seen was a single at Castleton on 7th. Nov. (KAMIPJE).

DESERT WHEATEAR O. deserti A single was seen at close quarters at Castleton on 7th. Nov. (SPC/PJE/ KAM). This record, a first for Herefordshire, has been submitted to the British Birds Rarities Committee. A typical late autumn record of this rare vagrant. Locally common across North Africa and Central Asia has been recorded in Britain over 20 times since 1958.

RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus First reported on the British Camp, Malvern Hills flying west into Herefordshire on 3rd.April (PGG). Only singles were sighted in the Olchon Valley by I&EE, RM and Cw. The latest report was a late bird in the Olchon Valley on 2nd. Nov. (J. Beaumont, warden at Queenswood).

BLACKBIRD T merula An abundant breeding resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. At Bishop's Meadow 15 were recorded on 8th. June (R&JM). In the first winter period the largest number was 12 at Tupsley on 6th. Dec. (I&EE).

193 FIELDFARE T. pilaris An abundant winter visitor. Latest records of departure were 20 seen feeding in a field at Welsh Newton on 1st.April (JRP); 2 at Leintwardine on 12th. April (I&EE); 12 in a roadside tree at Marden on 17th. April (PHD) and finally 2 at Bromsash on 20th. April (AHE). First autumn arrivals were 4 over Weston-under-Penyard on 20th. Oct. (DWT). Flocks of 20 to 50 were common. Larger numbers were 100+ at Ewyas Harold Common on 27th. Oct. (D&JT); 200+ at Newton Farm Park on 7th. Nov. (RHS); 250 at Preston-on-Wye on 6th. Dec. (MJW); 100+ at Shucknall on 6th. Dec. (I&EE); 200 at Wapley Hill on 27th. Dec. (RM); 100 at Bartonsham Meadow in Jan. (REM); c175 at Aston Mills on 16th. Jan. (AHE); c350 at Mathon on 30th. Jan. (PGG); c150 at Stansbatch on 18th. Feb. (JMB); 120 at Kingsthorne on 25th. Feb. (DWT); 200+ at Newton Farm Park on 27th. Feb. (RHS) and c80 at Tupsley Lugg Meadows on 21st. Feb. (GMJ).

SONG THRUSH T. philomelos A breeding resident and winter visitor from Scandinavia and northern Europe. With over 100 records widely distributed throughout the County the signs of a recovery in numbers appears to be continuing.

REDWING T. iliacus Widely distributed but not in large numbers with only 10 reports ofmore than 50 birds. The latest record for the first winter period was a single spotted at Eywood Pool on 20th. March (PHD). The first returning birds in autumn were 2 at Tyrrell's Court, Dilwyn on 5th. Oct. (TCC). The largest number was c300 at Castleton on 25th. Oct. (PGG).

MISTLE THRUSH T. viscivorus A breeding resident reported from 29 localities in the County. Post breeding flocks were 18 over Weston-under-Penyard on 18th. July, 10 at Wood Lane, Weston-under-Penyard on 14th.Aug. (DWT). and c30 at Linton on 14th. Aug. (AHE). A bird was singing at Common Hill, Fownhope on 18th. Nov. (KAM).

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia A summer visitor and scarce local breeder. Just 3 records ofthis nocturnal migrant, singing males at Ridge Hill, Much Marcle in May, Haffield, Bromsberrow in June (JW-J) and 2 heard reeling on May Hill on 11th. July (AHE).

194 SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Only 6 record cards from 5 locations were received for this summer visitor whose numbers have declined since 1968 due to the Sahel drought in West Africa. The first noted were 2 in song at Castleton Wye on 24th. April (AHE/AM) and a single at Preston-on-Wye on 26th.April (MW). At Weston Farm Pond 1 was seen on 1st. May and 6 territorial males calling on 30th. June (SPC) and 3 males calling on 1st. June at the same location (MFP). On the Lugg Meadows singles were singing on 21st. May (KAM) and 20th. June (GSB). The last record was of a single heard and seen at Hartleton Lake on 2nd. Sept. (AHE).

REED WARBLER A. scirpaceus A scarce summer visitor. At Weston Farm Pond 2m. were noted on 1st. June (MFP) and on 1st. July (SPC). At Shobdon on 26th. May several were heard singing (RM).

LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca Just 10 records for the year. First arrival noted at MGP on 2nd. May (PGG). Subsequently birds were noted in Upper Sapey, Brimfield, Wolferton (RM); Fawley & Bromsash (AHE); Tyrrell's Court Dilwyn, Stretford Bridge (TCC) and Shobdon Airfield (MFP). Three birds were seen feeding along a hedgerow at Marden on 27th. Aug. (PHD).

COMMON WHITETHROAT S. communis A fairly common summer visitor, although records seem down for the year. First recorded on 23rd.April at Bredwardine (L&SC) and thereafter at Canon Pyon, Stretford Bridge, Bury Hill, Upper Hergest, Marden, Safeway Car Park Leominster, Pembridge, Shobdon Industrial Estate, Wyche Cutting to British Camp (Malverns) and Ragged Stone Hill (west), Wapley Hill, Ewyas Harold Common and the Belmont Tip. At the Wyche Cutting 5 were noted compared to the following numbers for previous years:- 93 (10), 92 (9), 91 (6),90 (6), and 89 (7) (PGG). Last noted at Bromsash on 2nd. Sept. (ARE).

GARDEN WARBLER S. borin A total of 30 birds were recorded from 14 localities. 1 at BGP on 2nd. May was the first of the year (PHD). 5 were recorded at Wapley Hill on 10th. May (HTR) and also 5 from Ragged Stone Hill on 1st. June (PGG). The last record was at Newton on 10th. Sept. (RGD). At Wyche Cutting only 1 was recorded, a drop compared to previous years:-93 (6), 92 (6), 91 (6),90 (6) and 89 (7) (PGG).

195 BLACKCAP S. atricapilla Supposedly a common summer visitor but of 34 record cards 21 related to overwintering birds well distributed around the County. During the first winter period (Jan. - March) 28 birds (19m. 9f.) were noted from 10 locations and 24 birds (14m. 8f. 2?) were noted from 12 locations during the second winter period (Oct. - Dec.) The earliest record ofa singing male was at BGP on 4th.April (PGG/RM). Thereafter numerous records were received during the breeding season from 29 localities.

WOOD WARBLER P. sibilatrix This summervisitor was not found in previous haunts in the Malverns (PGG). The first singing male was heard on 21st. April at Queenswood, Dinmore (D&JT) and noted thereafter at only 4 other locations.

CHIFFCHAFF P. collybita A common summer visitor with 1 record of an overwintering bird at Burton Court, Linton on 31st. Jan. (AHE). There were 49 different localities recorded. The earliest record (overwintering bird?) was from Burton Court on 6th. March (AHE) followed by a single at BGP on 12th. March (PHD); single at Bredwardine also on 12th. March (SPC) and Garway Hill on 14th. March (TH). The latest record was of 4 birds in a small flock at Wapley Hill on 1st. Oct. (PHD).

WILLOW WARBLER P. trochilus A very common, often overlooked, breeding summer visitor, noted from 26 localities. The earliest record was at Bredwardine on 27th. March (SPC). There were no late records.

GOLDCREST Regulus regulus Europe's smallest breeding bird is well distributed throughout the County with records from 34 localities. There were 3 records ofnesting and breeding (JAlJRPIDHW). Most of the winter sightings were of singles or pairs with no records offlocking.

FIRECREST R. ignicapillus One record under a bridge on the M50 at Rudhall on 20th. Jan. The observer, J. Corbett, familiar with Goldcrest, white eye-stripes clearly seen.

196 SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata A common summer visitor first reported at Weston-under-Penyard on 8th. May (DWT). Thereafter 12 records of successful breeding throughout the Club area. The latest birds recorded were 3 at Putson on 8th. Sept (R&JM).

PIED FLYCATCHER Ficedula hypoleuca A regular breeding visitor first reported on 22nd. April at Bredwardine (L&SC) and thereafter at Eywood Pool, Olchon Valley, Queenswood, Castleton Wye, Wapley Hill and Low Wood.

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalos caudatus A common and well recorded breeding resident. Two family parties of c25 birds were recorded at MGP on 5th. June (PGG) and a flock of30 birds at Wapley Hill on 1st. Oct. (PHD). Three reports of birds on peanut feeders were given (PHD/I&EEIKPT), a relatively new trend for this species.

MARSH TIT Parus palustris A common resident recorded from 12 localities although not during the breeding season.

WILLOW TIT P. montanus Only 3 record cards received with probable breeding at MGP where a pr. were seen on 11th. June(PGG).

COAL TIT P. ater This, the smallest ofthe Tits, is a common and widespread breeding resident. No records oflarge winter flocks this year.

BLUE TIT P. caeruleus A common and widespread breeding resident.At Wye Vale NR 13 of17 nest­ boxes were used, 125 eggs laid, 120 hatched and 110 fldg. (D&JT).

GREAT TIT P. Major A common breeding resident.

WOOD NUTHATCH Sitta europaea A common breeding resident in suitable habitats, reported from 28 localities.

197 EURASIAN TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris A common breeding resident in suitable habitat and widely reported throughout the year.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE Lanius excubitor A somewhat elusive bird seen near Criftin Ford Bridge on 25th. Dec. (NOP). The second year running for this rare winter visitor and passage migrant to be recorded.

EURASIAN JAY Garrulus glandarius

A well distributed common resident. Ones and twos reported throughout the year of this secretive and wary bird. Groups of 5 recorded in Jan on Wapley Hill (PHD); 5 at Dilwyn in July (TCC); 4 at Lea in July and 4 at Weston-under-Penyard on 5th. Nov. (DWT). Several reports received ofthis bird feeding at bird-tables.

MAGPIE Pica pica Very common breeding resident. The larger counts noted were 6 at Bartonsham in March (R&JM); 6 at Breinton in March (NCP); 19 at MGP on 10th.April (PGG) and 9 at Preston-on-Wye in October (MJW). This species is being heavily trapped at Goodrich where it is now scarce. 400 are reported to have been taken on Coppett Hill over an unspecified period (RHD). (Magpies predate far less small birds than protectedraptors and considerably less small birds than the domestic cat. Ed.)

EURASIAN JACKDAW Corvus monedula An abundant breeding resident. Under recorded with only 5 record cards received. PHD noted c300 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 15th. Jan. Breeding confirmed at Sollers Hope (FRF) and Byford (PJE).

ROOK C. frugilegus Common breeding resident. The larger counts were 200 at Shobdon in Feb. (I&EE); 300 at Bredwardine in June (MJW); 100 at Weston-under-Penyard in July, 130 atAston Crews inAug., 100 at Bromsash in Sept. and 100 there in Dec. (DWT).

198 CARRION CROW C. corone A widespread breeding resident but very few records. 18 were observed on Bartonsham meadow in Oct. (R&JM).

COMMON RAVEN C. corax This, the largest crow in Britain, was widely recorded from Hereford, Nupend Reserve Fownhope, Much Marcle, Bromsash, Kenchester, Goodrich, Garway, Hergest Ridge, Wapley, Dilwyn, Newton, Ledicot, Bredwardine, Olchon, Lye, Newhouse Wood and Castleton. The larger counts were 6 at Bredwardine in Sept. (PHD); 5 at Coppett Hill in March (RHD); 10 at Garway inApril (JRP), 6 in the Olchon Valley in May (I&EE) and 12 at Newhouse wood in Dec. (RM). Bred at HOllybush Quarry just in Herefordshire (PGG).

COMMON STARLING Sturnus vulgaris Breeding resident and winter visitor. The larger counts were 300 at Preston-on-Wye on 28th. Sept. (MJW); 300 at Shobdon on 4th. Feb. (I&EE); 200 at Newton St. Margarets on 1st. March (RGD); 150 at Bartonsham in June (R&JM) and 150 at Holmer in Dec. (JA). Breeding noted at Holmer (JA) and Goodrich (MPW).

HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus Although one of the most abundant breeding residents in the County very few records were received. Flocks of 30 recorded at Putson in Dec. (R&JM) and 50 at Holme Lacy in Dec. (KAM/AHE) Breeding noted at Hunderton (KPT); Holmer (JA) and King's Acre (D&JT).

TREE SPARROW P. montanus Reports from 10 locations and breeding confirmed at Stansbatch (JMB) and Dilwyn (TCC). Larger winter flocks were 10 at Castleton in Oct. (PGG); 25 at Dorstone in Jan. (RM); 25 at Shobdon in Jan (RM); c20 at Upper Hergest in Jan (PHD); up to 50 at Dilwyn in Jan. and 56 there in Feb. (TCC). Other records were of 2 - 6 birds.

CHAFFINCH Fringilla coelebs Breeding resident and winter visitor from northern and eastern Europe. The larger winter flocks were 300 in a large mixed finch flock at Criftin Ford in Jan. (PGG/RM); 100 at Hildersley in Jan. (DWT); 200 at Shobdon in Feb. (PHD); 100 at Welsh Bicknor in Feb. (RHD); and 100+ near Clifford in Nov. (SPC). Noted in song at Welsh Bicknor from 3rd. Feb. (RHD).

199 BRAMBLING F. montifringilla The earliest recorded ofthis winter visitor was of1 flying over the Malvern Hills going west into Herefordshire on 14th. Oct. (PGG). All but 3 of the records come from west of the A 49. The species is usually associated with mixed flocks ofchaffinches, greenfinches, linnets and yellow hammers. The larger counts were 400 - 500 feeding on linseed at Criftin Ford in Jan. (PGG/ RM); c50 at Wye Vale Reserve on 20th. Jan. (D&JT); c500 at Criftin Ford on 27th. Feb. (PHD) and c30 at Leintwardine on 9th. March (I&EE). Up to 6 noted floor-feeding under a bird-table at Bredwardine in March (S&LC). Last seen at BGP on 23rd. April (PHD).

GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris Common breeding resident. Most records are from the winter period when birds are seen at nuts and bird-tables. Other records include 60 at Leintwardine in Sept. (I&EE); 8 at Bartonsham in Sept. (R&JM); 300+ near Clifford on 8th. Nov. (SPC); c80 at Hartleton Lake on 25th. Nov. and c50 on 6th. Feb.(AHE); 7 at Preston-on-Wye in March (MJW) and 5 at King's Acre inApril (D&JT).

GOLDFINCH C. carduelis Resident and breeding and widely reported throughout the County. The largest flocks are usually recorded in autumn but this year 3 flocks of over 20 birds were recorded from Jan. to April. Records of note were 15 at Belmont on 1st.Aug. (RHS); 6 at Preston-on-Wye on 22nd.Aug. (MJW); c25 at Stansbatch on 2nd. Sept. (JMB); c20 at Bartonsham on 3rd. Sept. (R&JM); 12 at Bollitree on 24th. Sept. (DWT); c25 at Holme Lacy on 8th. Oct. (CO); 10 at Castleton on 25th. Oct. (PGG); 30+ at Newton on 7th. Nov. (RGD); 20+ at Belmont on 30th. Nov. (RHS); 8 at Canon Bridge on 21st. Dec. (PGG); 14 at Coppett Hill on 11th. Jan. (RHD); c24 at Dog Hill Wood on 24th. Jan. (RWR); c20 at Sutton Walls on 6th. Feb. (RHD); c26 at Hartleton Lake on 6th. March (AHE); 20+ at Newton Farm Park on 23rd. April (RHS); 15 at Newton on 27th. April (RGD) and 7 at Lugg Mills on 21st. May (l&EE). Present throughout the breeding season at MGP(PGG).

SISKIN C. spinus Regular winter visitor first noted on the west side of the Malvern Hills on 19th. Sept. (PGG).All others were winter records except for 3 inApril. There were no records this year for the May - Sept. period. The larger counts were 10 on Common Hill in Oct. (RAM); 20 at Dorstone in Nov. (EAM); 100 at

200 Pembridge in Nov. (TCC); 50 at Preston-on-Wye in Dec. (MJW); c20 at Bromsashon 1st. Jan. (ARE); 60 at BGPinJan. (PGG); 80 at Welsh Bicknor in Jan. (RHD) and 30 at Wergins Bridge in Jan. (NCP). Last noted in a Hereford garden at King's Acre on 13th.April (D&JT).

LINNET C. cannabina Widely distributed breeding bird in suitable habitat within the County. Records include 150 at Shobdon Industrial Estate on 1st. Oct. and 100 at WGP also in early Oct. (PHD); 150 at Brierley on 15th. Oct. (C&SP); 200 at Dorstone on 1st. Jan. (RM); 200 at Bradnor Hill in Feb. (RM); 70 at Dilwyn on 6th.April (TCC); c30 at Ross-on-Wye on 9th.April (CO); 18 at Bishopstone on 16th. June (PJE) and c70 at Bollitree on 29th. July (AREIDWT). Breeding was confirmed in a Weston-under-Penyard garden for the 6th. time in 7 years (DWT).

COMMON REDPOLL C. flammea A very rare breeding resident and winter migrant often noted feeding on the small seeds ofalder and birch trees. There was one May record otherwise no sightings fromApril to Sept. inclusive. The larger counts were 20 at Kington on 30th. Oct. (C&SP); 12 at Upper Lugg Meadows on 13th. Dec. (GSB); 35 at BGP and 25 at Shobdon on 2nd. Jan. (RM); 10 in Queens Wood in Feb. (D&JT); 12 at Leintwardine in March (I&EE) and 75 in Mortimer Forest on 18th. Dec. (RM). Twos and threes were noted in Hereford City centre during Jan. (PGB) and March (TCC).

COMMON CROSSBILL Loxia curuirostra Numbers of this invasive species vary from year to year. It was recorded from 13 locations mainly during the first part of the year with no records received for the June - Sept. period. The larger flocks recorded were c15 at Haugh Wood on 25th. Jan. (EAG); 25 at Mortimer Forest on 30th. Jan. (RM); 17 at Bradnor Wood on 13th. Feb. (RM); 20 at Wapley Hill on 6th. March (JMB); 10 at Garway Hill on 18th. March (TH); 16 at Newhouse Wood on 10th. April (RM); 10 at Croft on 7th. May (J&CP) and c20 at Yeld Wood on 22nd. May (B&HD).

BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula Well distributed common breeding resident. Often overlooked despite its bright colours. Recorded in ones and twos from 20 locations including 3 at Dorstone in Nov. (EAM); 4 at Hunderton in Nov. (KPT); 6 at Ledbury in Jan. (RWR) and 3prs. at Burton Court, Linton on 31st. Jan. (AHE).

201 YELLOWHAMMER Emberiza citrinella Common breeding resident with fewer records received ofonly 24 locations. The larger numbers noted were 8 at Criftin Ford on 3rd. Jan. (PGG); 50 at Criftin Ford on 23rd. Jan. (PHD); 15 at Wapley on 19th. Feb. (JMB); 20 at Newton Farm Park on 2nd. Feb. (RHS); 40 at Wye Vale Reserve on 4th. Feb. (D&JT); c30 at Backney Wye on 11th. Feb. (ARE); c36 at Bromsash on 19th. March (ARE); 7 at Fawley on 29th. March (FRF) and 8 at Leintwardine on 3rd. April O&EE).

REED BUNTING E. schoeniclus Resident and breeding in suitable habitat throughout the County and especially along the R. Lugg and R. Wye. Singles noted at Leominster in Feb. (PHD); Hereford City in March (G&EA); Fawley in March (FRF); Rartleton Lake in March (D&JT); Below Tupsley Ridge inApril (GMJ) and Belmont in July (RRS). 5 seen on walk from Ross to Backney on 9th. April (CO). Breeding was confirmed at MGP (PGG) and Lugg Bridge Farm (CW).

CORN BUNTING Miliaria calandra Avery scarce breedingresident, the Corn Buntingis Britain's largestbunting. The only records were 3 seen feeding in a field at Bromsash on 19th. March and a single in song on 30th. March (ARE); 1m. at Bromsash on 10th. June (PJE); 2m. singing at Bromsash on 16th. June (ARE) and 1 near Sellack on 13th.Aug. (RLW).

202 COLLARED PRATINCOLEAT LUGG BRIDGE FARM

On the evening of Friday, 20th May, 1994, I went to my "local patch", Lugg Bridge Farm, and particularly, the pool, (which had recently been improved by the owner John Burden) which can be partially viewed from the Lugg Flats. This particular evening was not very pleasant for birdwatching, it was fine and dry, with a bitterly cold easterly wind, with good clear visibility, but I was in need of"a fix" from the ornithological drug. On my arrival at the pool I scoped the water and water's edge, to find a disappointingly smalllist ofbirds.A pair ofmute swan, a pair ofCanada geese with 3 goslings, 14 non-breeding mallard, several sand martin, 2 pied wagtail and 1 lapwing, possibly with a female on eggs nearby? I was all for going home, it was cold, it was certainly not what is expected from a late May evening. The few birds, like me, looked fed up and were trying to shelter from the wind. I too changed location, to shelter from that bitterly cold wind and to have one last search of the pool. I started scoping the water's edge, sitting on my fisherman's stool "a la sea watcher", which lowers the tripod making it more stable in the wind and, more important, helped to keep the author out of the wind. I located an unknown bird, some seventy yards away across the pool. The bird was" tail on " squatting down behind a dock plant, sheltering from the prevailing wind, approximately three feet above the water's edge, just on the grass line. It was between me and the dock plant and was not very obvious. It was a mid-brown bird, with dark brown or black primaries leading to a long tail, with short legs and appeared to have pale undermarkings. My first impression was that I had located a tern or very large swallow. I soon disproved that theory, by systematically paging through the Mitchell Beazley pocket guide that I always carry on my field trips, not once, but twice. I realised that I had found something unusual when I failed to find anything similar. Was this my first experience offinding an apparent rarity? What should I do? I knew I had to convince others that I had seen such a species, so I made detailed field notes. I do mean detailed, giving time and date,

203 distance from the unidentified bird and noting as many features of the bird as possible. With all that done, and only then, after some fifteen minutes had elapsed that I changed my location, in relation to the target, in order to get a side on view. My distance from the bird was approximately thirty yards. It was now possible to see more clearly, and I gradually built up a detailed description. A pair of yellow wagtails passed by and were dwarfed by this unknown bird. The bird became restless, due to the presence of a drake mallard, which was now grazing nearby. More body bobbing and wing feather movement were obvious signs of unease. The bird was flushed by the mallard and flew across the pool to land on the opposite bank, now some eighty yards away. During the short flight, which was similar to that of a tern, the rufus underwing markings and the white rump were clearly visible. It also showed dark upperwing contrasts from the region of the carpal joints. It had a swallow / tern style deeply forked tail. The unidentified bird was chased several times by a slightly larger and taller lapwing, and its running was reminiscent to that ofa common sandpiper or other small wader. Where possible, the bird was crouching low, to avoid the wind, possibly because it was tired or even exhausted, having been blown away from its normal habitat. I had been watching the bird for over an hour and had compiled detailed notes, but I still hadn't identified the bird. I had an inkling it might be a pratincole. I could vaguely recall something from my grey matter, so I decided that I must:- a) return to the car in order to identify the bird from a book, and b) make contact with another club member in order to obtain verification. But what ifthe bird disappears? Oh! for a camera that would fit onto my telescope, or a mobile telephone. I ran all the way back to the car, which was parked by the farmer's cottages, I cheekily asked if I could make a telephone call, after explaining my predicament. Fortunately, or not, as the case may be, my request was acceded to, so I telephoned the County Recorder, Keith Mason, only to be told by his wife Chris, that he had gone on the HOC's field meeting in Gloucestershire to look for nightingales. I explained to her what I had sighted and she told me that it was probably a pratincole and confirmed that it would be better if I could obtain corroboration. Who do I contact?

204 The majority of active members were out of the County looking for nightingales and I was in my own patch observing a national rarity, I ask you? . I telephoned Steve Coney and he was on his way before he had put the telephone down! I checked in the book and realised that I had been watching a Collared Pratincole. I ran back to the pool, the Collared Pratincole was still in the same area and it was still being chased off by the lapwing as it was feeding along the waterline. I had forgotten the cold, with the running to and from the car together with the excitement oflocating a national rarity. I now checked the bird with the book, and the field notes with the book to confirm that there was a Collared Pratincole on my patch in Herefordshire. Not too long afterwards, I was joined by Steve Coney, and he too observed the bird and unaided made detailed field notes. We watched as the bird took to the wing in fading light, too dark to watch through the telescopes, but sufficient to follow with binoculars, hawking the pool for food. The throat bib, the rump patch, the markings on wing and underwing and the black streamers were clearly seen. The wings were similar to those of a hobby, with the flight similar to a tern. I continued to record the details ofeverything the bird did, and each and every detail as I saw it. My reasoning for this was that I knew, as did Steve, that we would now have to convince others, including the British Birds Rarities Committee (BBRC), that we had correctly identified a Collared Pratincole. We continued with our watching ofthe magnificent flight ofthis wader into the darkness, almost unaware ofthe large number ofswifts and hirundines that were feeding on their territory. Reluctantly we had to leave, both extremely happy with the find. By this time the bitterly cold wind had receded, and I was hot and somewhat overdressed, but I was not complaining. When I returned home, after a celebratory drink, I made several telephone calls to my friends, to inform them ofmy fortunate experience, and to inform them of the location. They all went out the following morning to no avail, the bird had flown to pastures new. Incidentally, there were several reports of a strange large swallow around local farm pools, one farmer even identified the bird as a pratincole by photograph. Attempts to locate the bird again were unsuccessful. I now had to convince the BBRC of my sighting. I contacted the secretary of BBRC in order to obtain the necessary submission form. I also compiled a detailed letter including all the details

205 of the sighting, including times, distances, size, and flight comparisons, markings, weather, visibility and details ofthe optical equipment used. I photocopied the field notes and also submitted them in a typed format. I left little to chance. On 26th May, 1994, the documentation was forwarded for scrutiny. A post card, dated 12th Nov. 1994 from BBRC, confirmed that the record had been accepted for publication in British Birds. How did I achieve the acceptance? Briefly, by paying particular attention to all the minute relevant details. I was fortunate, I was able to observe the bird undisturbed for an hour, which enabled me to document all the salient details contemporaneously, not when I returned home and had possibly forgotten those minor but so important details. Steve and I were fortunate, in that we had only to decide whether it was a Black-winged, Collared or Oriental Pratincole. The same rule of accuracy applies with other rarities, the finder must pay meticulous attention to all details before reaching a decision. With all such details recorded, the BBRC are less likely to reject the sighting. Any indecision by the finder will be transmitted to BBRC, which will in turn increase the chances of rejection. CHRIS WELLS

206 ESCAPES & "SNIPPETS"

BLACK SWAN Cygnus atratus Noted in Dec. at Lugwardine (PHD) and Hampton Bishop Wye (KAM). Feral breeder in Slovenia and record of breeding in Norfolk. Possible future feral breeder in Herefordshire? It is interesting to note that Black Swans were carelessly introduced into New Zealand from Australia in 1864. On Lake Whangape their numbers have increased to such an extent that all duck have been driven away. (Durrell, Gerald. TWo in the Bush. 1966)

DIVING DUCK Aythya hybrid Noted at BGP by Paul Downes. Red 'Pochard' type head and neck. Pale yellow iris. Black breast, grey back and whitish flanks. Bill had black tip, white band just before tip and grey base. It was larger than accompanying Thfted Ducks. CAythya hybrids are extremely confusing and very difficult to determine which species are involved. See Harris, Thcker and Vinicombe. The Macmillan Field Guide to Bird Identification. 1989)

JACKDAW Corvus monedula Strangely marked bird (not unlike a Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes) with a club foot at Bishopstone for 1 week in Dec. (PJE et al).

CARRION CROW Coruus corone During June & July pair noted 'dunking' bread in bird-bath and carrying it away presumably to feed young. (I&EE).

RED-TAILED HAWK Ruteo jamaicensis (or possibly Ferruginous Hawk Buteo regalis) flying with a Common Buzzard Buteo buteo over BGP on 3rd. Dec. giving a very harsh call. It had a red upper tail, pale rump and very white undersides. (PHD).

CRANE Grus sp. Distant views were had ofa bird, possibly a Crane, over Common Hill, Fownhope on 15th. July (KAMlI&EE). (Due to the distance it was not possible to determine which species had been observed and the sighting was not substantiated by field notes. Ed.)

GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris 5 birds seen pecking the heads off primroses Primula uulgaris in April (DWT).

BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula Feeding on honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum berries in Aug. CDWT) and on violet Viola riuiniana seeds in Nov. (EAM).

207 REED BUNTING Emberiza schoeniclus Singing from the top of young bracken frond Pteridium aquilinum at c1,000 ft. altitude on Hergest Ridge on the 22nd. May (KAM).

SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus A male sparrowhawk was observed by C. Sheldrake to take a Blue Tit Parus caeruleus which was feeding on a nut basket. A Sparrowhawk was observed by P. Garner to take a Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba which was coming in to roost at MGP on 28th. April.

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus A flock of 331 Lapwing observed at Lugg Bridge Pool included a leucistic bird. This is best described as the absence of black (See note on Yellow Wagtail in Systematic List). The bird was observed both on the wing and on the ground. The markings were similar to a Spur-winged Plover Hoplopterus spinosus; however, there was no doubt that it was a Lapwing (CW).

208 ANTIPODEAN CROW?

It was about six months ago ­ or maybe nine, I do not know. A high-wire act I chanced to see a Crow perform, most solemnly. It flew across a field,to land where the 'lectric cables spanned.

Upon a wire it perched, as still as any statue would, until of a sudden it swung down and there it hung, quite upside down. No hint there was of gaff or failure ­ 'twas like a crow in far Australia.

Thus it hung, the seconds went and then perhaps when ten were spent, it loosed its hold, then calmly flew along the line and then anew as though the whole thing was a game, the act repeated once again.

So now, ifere I see a Crow towards the 'lectric cables go, I stop to watch, although I know there's little hope of one more show.

PETER GARDNER 18th. March 1995

This curious behaviour ofhanging upside down has also been noted in the Raven. Ed.

209 LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS TO CLASSIFIED NOTES (With apologies for any omissions) * Denotes non-member

Mrs. J. AlIen LB. Evans N.C. Pegler Alan Andrews* Mrs. G.E. Evans Mrs. S. Pittam* Dr. G.E. Atkin AH. Eveleigh J.H. Port Dr. E.R. Atkin P. Faulkener* Mrs. C. Port Miss B. Bayliss Mrs. F.R Francis Susan Powell* J. Beaumont* P.G. Garner J.R Pullen L. Biggs EA Gillard H.T. Randolph Mrs. M. Biggs Mrs. D. Hart Dr. G.H. Rannie* GB. Bilbao Mrs. V. Hewitt Miss J.M. Richards Mrs O.M. Bilbao T. Hulme* R W. Roseveare Mrs. M. Bishop J.W.H.lcke S.AT. Rowlands* RJ. Bishop Miss RJ enkinson KJ. Ruck Mrs. M. Boardman Mrs. G.M. Joy J.L. Russell Dr. D.G. Boddington B.M. Kiddle*& P. Scriven* Chris Bosley* Amelia Smith* M. Shallard* P.G. Bradley A Marchant C.w. Sheldrake Mrs. F. Bradley J.H. Marsden Mrs. L.M. Sheldrake Mrs. J.M. Bromley R Maskew RH. Small M. Bruce KA Mason Mrs. AJ. Small Mrs. F.S. Burge Mrs. C. Mason Dr. D.J. Thomas Dr. AE. Caunt RE. Mellish Mrs. J. Thomas S.P. Coney Mrs. M.J. Mellish D.W. Thompson Mrs. L.H. Coney Dr. B.E. Miles* KP. Tillett T.C. Cooke E.A Morgan Dr. S.J. Tyler Keith Corbett* Mrs. J. Morgan M.P. Watkins RG. Deane R Morley RL. Watts Tim Dixon* Andrew Oxlade* D.H. Welch P.H. Downes G.R Parker C. Wells RH. Dunt AS. Parry S. Whitehouse* B.M.J. Dwyer M. Parry E. Williams* Mrs. H.R Dwyer N.O. Parsons M.J. Williams P.J. Eldridge M.F. Peers* J. Wynn-Jones* Mrs. J.P. Eldridge REPORT EXCHANGES Brecknock Wildlife Trust Gwent Ornithological Society Bristol Natural History Society Shropshire Ornithological Society Derbyshire Ornithological Society West Midland Bird Club Gloucester Naturalists Trust Wiltshire Ornithological Society AFFILIATED ASSOCIATIONS British Trust for Ornithology Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Herefordshire Nature Trust The Woolhope Club

210 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB THE RULES

NAME: 1. The Club shall be called the Herefordshire Ornithological Club, herein after referred to as "The Club" OBJECTS: 2. The objects of The Club shall be: a) to further the study of wild birds and their habitats, b) to assist in the preservation of wild birds and their habitats, c) to promote all aspects ofornithological life in the County ofHerefordshire, d) maintain an archive of ornithological records for the County of Herefordshire, e) prepare and publish an Annual Report, f) to support other organisations, active both locally and nationally, in matters ofnature conservation, where there is an ornithological interest. CLUB MEMBERSHIP: 3. Eligibility for club membership shall be agreed upon by The Committee. 4. There shall be the following classes of membership: a) Full members, 18 years and over b) Junior members, over 12 years but under 18 years of age c) Corporate members, kindred bodies, schools etc d) Honorary members, as approved by the majority present at an Annual General Meeting. CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP: 5. Members shall be required to support and keep the provisions ofthe Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. 6. Members shall not divulge to unauthorised persons (e.g. known collectors of skins and or eggs) information in a manner likely to be detrimental to the objects of The Club. 7. Any member who fails to support and keep within Rule 5 and Rule 6 shall be required to resign. MANAGEMENT: 8. The Club shall be managed by The Executive Committee, herein after called The Committee. THE COMMITTEE: 9. The Committee shall be constructed with a minimum of the following members: a) Chairman b) Vice Chairman c) Secretary d) Treasurer

211 e) Field Secretary f) Recorder g) Annual Report Editor h) Bulletin Editor i) Six Ordinary Committee Members and when complete, The Committee shall not exceed fifteen (15) members. SUBSCRIPTIONS: 10.Annual subscription rates shall be approved at theAnnual General Meeting. 11. Subscriptions are payable upon membership, and renewable on 1st January of each subsequent year, except, where a member is elected on or after 1st September, in any year, there will be no further liability in the year immediately following that election. 12.Any member whose subscription is six months in arrears, shall cease to receive The Club's publications and, should subscription not be received by 30th September, then the name shall removed from the list of members. FINANCES: 13.The financial year of the Club shall end on 30th November. 14.The Club's bankers shall be decided by The Committee. 15.AlI The Club's income shall be paid into an account with The Club's bankers forthwith. 16. All cheques shall be signed by the Treasurer, and the Chairman or the Secretary. 17. The treasurer with the approval of The Committee, may deposit with an approved financial institution, any reserve monetary assets for the purpose of maintaining or increasing their value. INSURANCES: 18.The Committee shall have responsibility to insure against claims for public and statutory liabilities, and such other insurance as it deems necessary to protect The Club's property. GENERAL MEETINGS: 19. The Annual General Meeting of the Club shall be held during the month of March. 20.At the Annual General Meeting the following business shall be included: a) Appoint a President for a term of three (3) years b) Vice President(s), c) To receive a report by the Chairman, on the activities of The Club during the past year d) To receive and approve from the Treasurer, a fully audited balance sheet and statement of accounts for the past financial year, including recommendations for annual subscriptions e) Appoint an auditor or auditors for the ensuing year f) To elect the Committee g) To decide on any motion which may be submitted to the Meeting in the prescribed manner

212 21. Every member shall receive a written notice of the Annual General Meeting stating the business to be transacted by 21st February, together with a fully audited balance sheet. 22. Any member, wishing to place any motion before theAnnual General Meeting, shall give notice to the Secretary, in writing, before 1 st February. 23.At the Annual General Meeting, with exception of the Chairman, who shall serve a three year term of office, all the Officers of The Committee, and any members of sub committees, shall retire, but shall be eligible for re-election. 24. The Ordinary Committee Members shall serve a three year term of office. Two (2) being elected each year, and on retiring, shall not be eligible for re­ election for a period of twelve (12) months. 25.Any two members, may propose a candidate for The Committee, by notice in writing to the Secretary, at least ten (10) days before the meeting, stating that the consent of the nominee has been obtained. 26.1f no, or insufficient, nominations are received, nominations may be taken from the floor of the meeting. 27. Elections for The Committee, shall be decided by the majority of members present and entitled to vote. 28. The business at all General Meetings, shall be entered in a minute book, showing a record of all proceedings and resolutions. They shall be available to any member of the Club, applying in writing to the Secretary, when they have been approved by the membership and signed by the Chairman. 29. The Committee, may at any time call an Extraordinary General Meeting. An Extraordinary General Meeting may be called by any twenty five (25) full members of the Club, stating in writing the business to be transacted. 30. Fourteen days before an Extraordinary General Meeting, every member shall receive a written notice stating the business to be transacted. ALTERATION OF RULES: 31. Any alteration of The Club Rules may only be made, if proposed in writing, and submitted to the Secretary, not less than two clear months prior to the Annual General Meeting. The proposal shall be placed on the Agenda Paper for that General Meeting, and passed by a two thirds majority of members present. COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 32. Committee meetings shall be held as often as deemed desirable by the Committee, with a minimum of four per year. 33. The President and Vice Presidents, may attend Committee Meetings as advisors. 34. A quorum shall consist of not less than a third of the appointed members. 35.At all Committee Meetings and Sub Committee Meetings, minutes shall be taken of the conclusions of all proceedings. These must be approved by the Committee and signed by the Chairman, then shall be available to any member of the Club, applying in writing to the Secretary.

213 36.The Committee, will appoint a Editorial Sub Committee, consisting of the Annual Report Editor, the Secretary and at least two other members, who shall prepare and present the Annual Report. 37. The Committee, will appoint a Rarities Sub Committee, consisting of the Recorder and at least two other members, who shall decide upon the accuracy of the sighting of rarities in the County. They will submit a report of their findings to the Committee, which will be included in the Annual Report. 38. The Committee, will have the power to co-opt members, who are not immediately retiring members of The Committee. as they may deem necessary, but shall not exceed the maximum number of members as described in Rule 9. These members will have full voting rights. 39.The Committee, may from time to time appoint or co-opt Sub Committees, as they deem necessary or expedient, and may refer to them such powers as the Committee may determine. A report will be submitted setting out the findings and recommendations of that Sub Committee. 40. No member shall, except for professional services rendered, at the request of the Committee, receive any profit or emoluments from any funds or transactions of the Club. 41. The Committee shall act according to approved Standing Orders. DISSOLUTION: 42. Ifat any General Meeting, a resolution for the dissolution of the Club, shall be passed by a majority of the members present, then an Extraordinary General Meeting shall be called within one calendar month. 43. A quorum for that meeting, shall not be less than halfofthe total membership of the Club. 44.A two thirds majority of full members present and voting, shall be required, in order to pass a resolution to dissolve the Club. 45. In the event of dissolution, all assets, after the discharge of all liabilities, shall be divided equally between the Royal Society for the Protection ofBirds, the British Trust for Ornithology and the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust or similarly recognised bodies as may decided by the members. NOTICE: Any notice that may be served by the Secretary, or any member, either personally, or on its appointed representative,· as the case may be, or by sending it through the post, in a prepaid letter, addressed to any such member, at the last known address in the United Kingdom, and any such letter so sent, shall be deemed to have been received within ten days of posting.

January 1995 Approved AGM 2nd March, 1995.

214 HEREFORDSHIRE ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR ENDED 30th. NOVEMBER 1994 1992 1993 Income Profit on sale ofAbbey National Shares 355 21 Sale of Publications & Goods 31 385 Donations 450 165 Interest & Dividends 238 1.616 Subscriptions 1.661

£2,187 £2,735 Deduct: Expenditure: 768 Printing & Stationery 190 939 Annual Report 978 296 Postage & Telephone 294 235 Meeting Expenses 406 64 Affiliation Subscriptions 79 150 Insurance 229 Donation YO.C. 100 2,255

Surplus for the year £480 Surplus at 1st. December 1993 2,619

£2,619 General Funds at 30th. November 1994 £3,099 2,700 Add: Special Funds, brought forward 2,700 Legacy - Miss W.M, Gibson 500 £2,700 £3,200

Accumulated Funds at 30th. November 1994 £6,299

Accumulated Funds at 30th November 1994 represented by: £6,120 Deposit Account £6,750 299 Bank Balance less 1995 subscriptions in advance 649 £6,419 £6,399 1.100 Deduct: Liability (estimated cost of Annual Report) 1.100

£5,319 LT, STONE (Hon. Treasurer) I have audited the above Accounts and in my opinion they show a true and fair view of the General Account Surplus for the year ended 30th. November, 1994 and of the Club's assets and liabilities at 30th. November, 1994. T. Davies (Chartered Accountant) 31st. December 1994 215