Bradford Ornithological Group

The 2015 Report is sponsored by

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!1 Report Production

Compiler and Editor: Paul King Sub-Editor Keith Moir Records Collation: Stephen Lilley with assistance from Shaun Radcliffe and Paul King

Photographs

Front Cover: Barn Owl by Keith Allen Inside Front Cover: Curlew by Nigel Priestley Golden Plover by Stephen Lilley Back Cover: Cuckoo by Brian Vickers Inside Back Cover: Goosander and chicks by Roger Wilkinson Great Crested Grebe by Nigel Priestley Others: As individually credited

Sky Lark Stephen Lilley

!2 Editorial

This, the 29th Annual Report, has been compiled from 17,500 records submitted to us by the 31st December. Without the unstinting help of Keith Moir and the supporting efforts of Stephen Lilley and Shaun Radcliffe, this document would not have been possible. In addition, thanks must go to the many photographers who have contributed superb images and helped to enhance the narrative and given the Report an impressive look. The Group should be justifiably proud that it is able to maintain high standards and in so doing reflect all that is best in birding within this Pennine area. However, this will only continue if others within the Group come forward and take up the challenge of keeping our interests alive and our publications in circulation. If you can contribute by writing and processing information, now is the time to join in.

There were many notable sightings during 2015, none more so than Barn Owl, which, thanks to conservation efforts, resulted in the best-ever year for this enigmatic species. in March, a massive movement of Whooper Swans resulted in a record 185 flying over Oxenhope and in late summer two sightings of Yellow- browed Warblers were identified during a national influx of the species. Intermittent and occasional visitors included Bittern, Red-throated Diver, Garganey, Arctic Skua and Lapland Bunting, whilst those which were once fairly numerous, i.e. Yellow Wagtail, Wood Warbler, Yellowhammer and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, continued to "hang on". November floods brought record counts of Wigeon and Teal at Cononley Ings and, following submissions to higher authorities, we can announce the acceptance of 2014 records of Montagu's Harrier and two 'firsts' for the Group: Caspian Gull and Roseate Tern.

This year's Report will be the last one to contain contributions from Tony Gough, who died in May 2015, and whose obituary has already appeared in "Lapwing". Tony was one of the first to recognise the potential of Barden Scale as a place to observe birds of prey, and much of the data on raptors in past Reports has been down to his meticulous records and descriptions. This Report is the poorer by his reduced contribution in 2015, and future ones will reflect this even more.

Please ensure that we receive your records by 31st December in any of the following ways: 1. E-mail records to [email protected] or 2. Pass written sightings to Stephen Lilley or Shaun Radcliffe at meetings. 3. Fill in the on-line electronic form on the website. 4. Send an Excel file to the recorder, Stephen Lilley, by 31st December.

We look forward to a year when every member submits records, thus enhancing the overview of species - common and rare - which lies at the heart of and is a major focus of BOG activities

Paul King

!3 CLASSIFIED LIST OF SPECIES FOR 2015

MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor Common resident breeder.

Once more the Wharfe at Otley recorded the largest count with 20 birds at the popular boating area on 25th May. During the winter up to 19 birds had been regularly seen at Yeadon Tarn. Altogether 11 double- figure counts were registered, mostly at these two locations, and away from here there were smaller flocks at Park Dam (Low Moor), Harold Park (Wibsey) and Lister Park (Bradford). Birds carrying yellow tags were recorded on these lakes and at Dowley Gap. Their identification numbers were 153, 154, 162, 201, 212 and 900.

Breeding was proved at Otley Wetland, where two pairs were seen with several cygnets, and at a private lake in Wharfedale where two juveniles were noted.

WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus Uncommon but regular passage visitor.

2014 was a record year for the number of sightings of this species, but this year, though limited to just 27 records, was impressive for the spectacular events during March which easily surpassed anything previously witnessed in this area.

On 12th March, 48 of these majestic birds passed over Caldene Fields and two days later a flock of 42 rested on Warley Moor Reservoir. On the 15th, four birds spent about 24 hours on Ogden Water and two days later at least ten birds were seen over Old Otley Road, Bradford. This was the prelude to a bigger local movement which was well-recorded. On the 21st, 53 birds flew north-west over Thornton Moor but the next day, early in the morning, 244 birds congregated on Mixenden Reservoir, tantalisingly just outside our area. Later in the afternoon the whole flock took to the air and most passed over Oxenhope where observers counted 185 birds flying northwards, comfortably a group record (HC, RP). On the same day, smaller flocks comprised 28 over Keighley Moor, 22 on Warley Moor Reservoir and 10 birds (rising to 12 on the following day) on Lindley Wood Reservoir.

On 5th April, eight birds flew over Tong Park (Baildon), and the following day possibly the same birds were at Lower Barden Reservoir.

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

Compared to the previous year there was a considerable reduction in the aggregate total number of birds reported. The total of 6800 was under half that of 2014, though that was a record-breaking year. Other figures followed this downward trend, with just 27 day counts of skeins of over 100, down by a third, but more typical of an average year.

A third of the birds were seen in the first part of the year as they generally moved from east to west, the bulk of the passage taking place between 14th January and 11th February. The first of the 100+ was seen in Wharfedale but all the others were watched in Airedale or further south in the Queensbury area.

However, the return passage in autumn consisted of some sizable flocks. At the Oxenhope Watchpoint, during October, day counts of 269 on 13th, 745 on 25th and 310 on the 31st were made. During this same month, at Caldene fields, 164 passed over on the 8th, but a more productive period was during November when 480 were counted on the 8th and a week later skeins of up to 243. The first day of November was a day of general movement, with 500 birds flying down Wharfedale and another 100 went over Haworth.

In March, three birds rested in fields at Low Dam and another was associating with Canada Geese on Keighley Moor. During April, singles were reported at Redcar Tarn, Lower Barden Reservoir and Otley Wetland, whilst two birds were at Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits and another single was on Warley Moor Reservoir during May. During migration watch, a single bird was seen in the fields close to the watchpoint at Oxenhope.

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

There were 14 three-figure counts, a considerable increase on the two previous years, all originating from Wharfedale and the Washburn. Lindley Wood, Fewston and Scargill Reservoirs remain the locations with the greatest concentrations. At the end of the breeding season and during early autumn, flocks of up to 500 had gathered at the first site. The other two sites regularly attracted over 300 birds.

Breeding was confirmed at 13 well-spread locations, with adults on nests and with goslings seen at most of them. At Otley Wetland, 30 young !5 birds were counted at the end of May and other successful broods were seen at Burley Moor, Denton Moor, Leeshaw Reservoir, Dowley Gap, Lower Barden Reservoir, Kex Gill, Bradup, Keighley Moor and Warley Moor Reservoir.

CANADA GOOSE Branta canadensis Common resident breeder.

The 19 three-figure counts were very much in line with the previous year, the biggest concentrations being at 11 locations, with Warley Moor Reservoir attracting a site record number of over 400 birds in July. When conditions were right, large wintering flocks seemed to move between Cullingworth and Cononley Ings, where numbers peaked at 270 at the end of November. Scargill Reservoir attracted 185 birds in January and in the south of the area, Park Dam saw sizable flocks of up to 150 in October.

Pairs of adults with goslings were seen at nine sites and a sitting bird with six eggs was noted at another. A pair successfully raised four young in a field by the traffic lights on Bingley Road, Bradford and the pairs at Keighley Moor Reservoir were seen to engage their broods in flying lessons, encouraging them to fly the length of the water and back! The 400 at Warley Moor Reservoir in July included many young birds.

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

A single bird, often associating with Canada Geese, was again reported from the south of the area during the first half of the year. It was assumed to be the probable escaped bird, featured in last year’s Report, and could well have been the one that flew into Stockbridge Nature Reserve on 30th August and seen at Lindley Wood Reservoir on 9th September.

SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna Passage/winter visitor and occasional breeder.

The 16 records concerned 43 birds, slightly better than the two previous years. During the first winter period, the water meadows of Cononley and Silsden Ings attracted up to four birds at various times when conditions were conducive. Three birds visited Warley Moor Reservoir on 19th April and single birds were recorded at Soil Hill and Doe Park, Ogden and Thornton Moor Reservoirs during these early months.

!6 A juvenile bird was on Lower Laithe Reservoir on 5th August and four birds were watched on Ogden Reservoir on 10th September. During November four birds flew over Queensbury and others were again recorded at Cononley Ings.

MANDARIN DUCK Aix galericulata Increasingly common winter visitor and breeder.

On the Wharfe between Bolton Abbey and Barden Bridge there was a dramatic decline to levels more associated with five years ago. During February, a survey of the river revealed only 30 birds, which showed a marked decline from the 163 recorded just four months before in November 2014. This figure only rose to a maximum of 44 at the end of the breeding season in October.

A tree nesting male Mandarin Duck Roger Wilkinson Although there was a drop in numbers along this stretch of the Wharfe, the species’ territory appears to be widening as there were records from nine other sites. Elsewhere on the Wharfe at Knotford Nook in spring, pairs were seen and at a private lake, a pair flew from the top of a dead stump where they were in the process of establishing a nest site. There were also sightings along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal from !7 Riddlesden to Esholt, with three pairs seen on 23rd April in the vicinity of Buck Wood.

Although pairing, displaying and bonding were evident at most of these locations, only at Knotford Nook and near Barden Bridge were more adults and juveniles seen.

WIGEON Anas penelope Regular passage migrant and winter visitor.

2015 was another remarkable year in which record numbers were recorded at Cononley Ings during December, eclipsing the previous high figure of 470 seen here on 1st February 2014. Numbers had been rising steadily from 30th October until the record count of 535 was reached on 19th December after a sustained period of heavy rain (KM).

Other numbers were: 30 Oct 20 Nov 24 Nov 27 Nov 8 Dec 17 Dec 31 Dec

150 150 360 320 390 520 270 The numbers recorded here during the first winter period were as follows: 3 Jan 5 Jan 2 Mar 3 Mar 6 Mar

210 230 230 300 180 Elsewhere, the only other three-figure totals were a respectable 196 at Lindley Wood Reservoir on 8th February and 146 at Otley Wetland on 6th February and 115 on 19th January. Twelve birds appeared on Lower Laithe Reservoir on 16th January and 30 at Knotford Nook a week later. These were the only other significant records, with occasional birds seen in small flocks at Warley Moor Reservoir, Silsden Reservoir, Park Dam, Fewston Reservoir and Denton Hall.

GADWALL Anas strepera Increasingly regular passage migrant and winter visitor.

Of the 43 reports, many concerned birds in the east and south-eastern parts of the area, but there were also significant numbers in the north- west. During February, a record nine birds were seen at Apperley Bridge (KM), and at the end of the month eight were seen a short distance further west at Esholt (CP). In the south at Park Dam, there were regular sightings of a single bird in winter and a pair in autumn, but the only Wharfedale record was a pair at Otley Wetland on 15th March. The !8 optimum conditions at Cononley Ings attracted pairs on 24th and 25th November, and 6th and 19th December, and a noteworthy five birds on the 18th.

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

Once more the flooded fields of Cononley Ings attracted high numbers, particularly during a very wet period from 30th October until the end of the year with a record count of 490 on 19th December (KM).

Other totals were: 30 Oct 8 Nov 20 Nov 24 Nov 27 Nov 18 Dec 31 Dec

150 170 150 370 375 460 190 On these water meadows there were also significant numbers during the first ten days of January with totals of 200, 280 and 170.

During the year, at various times, respectable double-figure counts of between 20 and 30 were seen at Fewston Reservoir, John o’Gaunt’s Reservoir, Warley Moor Reservoir and a smaller group of 14 at Intake Farm, Menston. There were also single-figure counts at a wide variety of locations including Kex Gill, Askwith and Denton Moor in the north, and Keighley Moor, Ogden Reservoir, Stockbridge and Soil Hill in the south of the area.

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

Records indicated healthy populations at a number of sites, particularly Yeadon Tarn, Redcar Tarn, Strid Wood, Ogden Reservoir, Riddlesden, Lister Park and Harold Park where, in the winter months, flocks regularly touched three-figures. Both Redcar and Yeadon Tarns reached over 200 during January and February.

Ducklings were seen at most of the above locations and at Heights Lane, Bingley, where a female had used a cattle wallow to breed her clutch. Nine ducklings were with their parents at Norwood Bottom, five were seen at Leeming Reservoir and a female was seen moving her brood near Buck Wood. Ten ducklings were produced from a breeding pair in an Otley garden and other sizable broods were at Swinsty Reservoir and Lindley Wood Reservoir. In the Menston area four pairs of Mallards produced 28 young birds.

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

There were 10 records concerning 19 birds, a much better haul than the low totals of the previous years. During January, a pair was located at Cononley Ings (KM) and two pairs were on the water at Lower Laithe Reservoir (BV), a site which has seen the return of this species for the second consecutive year after a long absence. Perhaps, given this improving picture, it came as no surprise when a single female was there in January and another on 4th October. The other records were almost all from Cononley Ings, with two birds on 27th November, four on 8th December (increasing to five on the following day), two males on the 17th and one on the 30th (all KM). The remaing record was of a single bird that flew south westwards over Caldene Fields on 2nd September (MP).

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

Of the four sites featured in the reports, Cononley Ings captured most of the attention. The very wet conditions throughout November and December attracted up to six birds at a time, mainly females and sub- adults at first, but towards the year end full adult males were seen. In total 31 birds were recorded here (KM). Elsewhere pairs were seen on Ogden Reservoir on 13th March (CB) and Redcar Tarn on 3rd April (KM), with a single male at the former site on 2nd November (CB) and a couple of females for at least two days on Silsden Ings a week later (KM).

POCHARD Aythya ferina Increasingly uncommon winter visitor.

Reports once more showed that Yeadon Tarn and Otley Wetland Nature Reserve were the two main locations where this species can reliably be seen during the winter months. Up to ten birds, eight of them males, had congregated at Yeadon during March, and in January seven others frequented Otley Wetland, whilst a pair were seen feeding on the lake at Denton Hall. During November, single birds were seen at Redcar Tarn, Knotford Nook and John O’Gaunt’s.

Birds first appear in November and gradually increase in number until they depart in the middle of March. It was, therefore, a major surprise for a male bird to be seen and photographed on Ogden Reservoir on 4th July (BS).

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

This is our commonest diving duck, with over 200 reports spread across 31 different locations, though figures suggest that flock sizes are declining. The largest congregations were at Otley Wetland Nature Reserve with 42 birds in February, and Lister Park in Bradford where 40 birds had gathered in January. Redcar Tarn and Park Dam attracted over 30 birds in February and Silsden Reservoir, John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir and Yeadon Tarn regularly had over 20 during the winter months. On 7th February, 90% of Redcar Tarn was frozen, but the 32 Tufted Ducks which were present were operating in what little water was free of ice.

Breeding was confirmed at Kex Gill, where six young birds were seen in June. There was also a report, in the the following month of 21 birds on a stretch of water in Girlington, Bradford.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE Alopochen aegyptiacus Scarce visitor/possible escapee

There were just two records. A bird was seen amongst Greylag Geese at Keighley Moor Reservoir on 10th June (IH) and a second bird was on the fishing lake at Otley Wetland on 18th April (WNS). The latter may well have been the bird which has been seen in the Ilkley area and reported in 2012 and 2013 but considered to be an escapee.

SCAUP Aythya marila Uncommon passage/winter visitor

A female was seen on the fishing lake at Otley Wetland on 14th January and an immature bird was also recorded there on 1st and 2nd April (WNS). This was the second consecutive year that this species has been recorded.

GARGANEY Anas querquedula Scarce passage visitor

An eclipse drake was found at Redcar Tarn on 12th June (KM et al), and stayed until the 14th. This was the first record since September 2013.

!11 COMMON SCOTER Melanitta nigra Uncommon, but regular passage visitor.

An average year with five sightings, all single birds from four different locations. An immature bird was on Yeadon Tarn on 24th March (WNS) and a male visited Ogden Reservoir on 14th April (BS). A sub-adult male was reported on Lower Laithe Reservoir on 21st July (KM) and a week later, a drake dropped onto Keighley Moor Reservoir. It was this moorland location that had the final bird, another male, which flew in and immediately went to sleep on 1st October. It was present the next day and provided excellent opportunities for Common Scoter Ian Hargreaves close-ups (both IH).

GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula Common winter visitor.

Once more it is noticeable that there has been a significant drop in the size of flocks seen in this area. In 2013 we reported that a maximum of 46 birds was found at Otley Wetland and 43 at Knotford Nook, compared with this year’s maxima of 24 at Otley Wetland on 6th February and 14 at Knotford on 25th January. Birds were seen in ones and twos at ten other locations; exceptions being three birds on Silsden Ings in November and Silsden Reservoir in January. However, perhaps the most interesting record was of seven birds on the swollen River Wharfe near Pool on 31st December when the floods were at their most severe (WNS).

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Mergus serrator Scarce passage visitor

A bird was seen heading south west from the Oxenhope Watchpoint on 26th September (DB, HC). This was the second consecutive year that this species has been recorded. !12 GOOSANDER Mergus merganser Common resident breeder and winter visitor.

The 185 records came from across the region but, as with some other species, there appears to be a significant drop in the size of the flocks which are registered, particularly at roosts. Whilst there were no records submitted of any roosts at Thornton Moor (usually a reliable source of good numbers), those from other parts indicated smaller flocks. Up to 20 birds regularly used Yeadon Tarn in January, but otherwise a dozen birds roosting at Stockbridge in December and 22 birds at Redcar Tarn on 10th May were the highest counts.

Pairing, bonding and displaying were well recorded during February and March and from the middle of April creches containing a female and brood were seen, particularly in Wharfedale and the Washburn. The first was a cavalcade of 11 chicks led by a female at Norwood Bottom followed four days later by a similar display on the Wharfe, but this time there were 20 young birds in tow. Other breeding evidence came from Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits, near Pool and at Askwith, where 14 Goosander eggs were found in a Barn Owl box.

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

Most of the local birds are those which have been reared specially for sporting activities. They tend to gather in flocks of variable size and two in particular drew the attention of contributors. The largest was in the Denholme area, where up to 150 birds were close to a feeding station. The other was on the northern edge of our area at Coney Warren on Barden Fell, where 31 birds were active. Single-figure gatherings were noted on Beamsley Beacon, Walsh Lane (Bingley), Warley Moor Reservoir, Thornton Moor Reservoir, Norwood Bottom and at Slippery Ford, where the presence of one of these species left a local gamekeeper somewhat perplexed!

RED GROUSE Lagopus lagopus Resident breeder

The 75 records included three from the south of the area but, as is always the case with this species the moorland to the north of Airedale is where breeding is heavily concentrated. It was confirmed and supported from our records, that 2014 was an excellent year, said to be the best for 50 years. However, the fortunes for this sensitive species have swung the other way and we have learnt that pre-shoot counts in !13 2015 were very low. Very poor weather in May resulted in virtually no insects, which had caused low brood sizes, with many pairs failing completely. Furthermore, juveniles had not reached a full adult size by August. Contributors did concur with this observation, there being good numbers of adults seen in spring, but only three breeding records of note. One of these was on Ilkley Moor another was on Barden Fell and a third was on Pennythorn Hill, Baildon, where a family party of ten fed contentedly on the Golf Course.

GREY PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix Resident breeder.

70% of the 55 records came from the Eldwick, Baildon, Hawksworth area, where the bird continues to flourish, though as in the case of the Red Grouse, poor weather conditions in May considerably affected breeding success. Two wintering flocks containing a total of 14 birds around Heights Lane, Bingley and up to four pairs in the Glovershaw area showed a healthy population was well-established. However, there was a dearth of reports recording breeding activity, with just two adults and three juveniles at Glovershaw in September and a small family flushed near Reva at the end of July.

Away from this area there were sightings at Slippery Ford where breeding was suspected, Warley Moor Reservoir and Soil Hill in the south and Otley Wetland, Barden Fell and Middleton, in the north of the region.

PHEASANT Phasianus colchicus Resident breeder.

Most of the 150 records concerned birds from managed stock. The largest congregations appeared around John O’Gaunt’s and Scargill Reservoirs, where over 50 birds were often seen. At smaller managed undertakings at Sconce, Heights Lane (Bingley), Otley Wetland and Bradup up to 30 birds roamed the fields. Family parties were seen during the summer at all these locations and on Keighley Moor, an area more noted for Red Grouse. There were also a few records of Pheasants visiting gardens in search of seeds from bird tables.

RED-THROATED DIVER Gavia stellata Scarce winter visitor

On 21st March, a bird circled the reservoir at Warley Moor (Fly Flatts) before flying away to the south-west (BV, HC). This was the first sighting since 2012 and the ninth Group record. !14 CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo Locally common passage and winter visitor.

With a high count of 45 roosting at Lindley Wood Reservoir on 28th August, there was a suggestion that numbers might be returning to those of ten or more years ago. This, however, proved to be premature as the site, once renowned as the main attraction for the species, then showed a return to the much lower levels seen in recent years. Elsewhere, summer totals crept into double figures at Lower Laithe Reservoir, Otley Wetland and Ogden Reservoir. During the winter period similar numbers of between 10 and 20 birds were recorded at Hewenden Reservoir and Otley Wetland. Many other reports were of single birds flying over and small gatherings of a few birds on lakes and rivers across the area. A bird seen at Lower Barden Reservoir on 10th March showed characteristics of the Continental race P.c.sinensis.

BITTERN Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor

A bird was flushed from the reedbed at Otley Wetland on 1st April (AJ). This is the tenth record for the Group and the first since 2013.

LITTLE EGRET Egretta garzetta Uncommon passage migrant.

This species is now common on the river systems to the south of Leeds, but is only gradually making appearances in the BOG area. The 18 reports, with the exception of two sightings of a single bird near Reva Reservoir in late January, mostly concerned birds seen along the river Wharfe. Single birds were noted on the river at Addingham and in the vicinity of Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits in the first three months. Two birds were reported at the last location on 21st February and another single bird was seen here in September and also further east near Pool. There was a report of a bird at John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir on 1st September and three at Lindley Wood Reservoir two weeks later.

GREY HERON Ardea cinerea Common resident and colonial breeder.

Most of the 140 records concerned single birds on riverbanks, by lakes and flying between feeding grounds. These included garden ponds for which the birds show a singular liking. Lindley Wood Reservoir and Otley Wetland attracted up to half a dozen birds and there were 11 on

!15 Silsden Ings on 15th November. The roost at the bottom of Shipley Glen held 13 birds on 7th December in line with totals from previous years.

The heronry at Harden comprised at least six occupied nests, and a small area of trees at a private lake in Wharfedale held a nest where breeding activity was observed. The main breeding took place at Askwith, where 23 nests produced 46 young. Three nests were damaged during storms and one other, built in an old tree, contained a dead adult and two partially formed young.

PURPLE HERON Ardea purpurea Addition to 2013 Report Scarce national vagrant.

The bird seen at Snaygill on 4th May, 2013 has now been accepted by the YNU Records Panel (RC). Only the second Group record, following one in 1997.

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

There were almost 100 records of this small grebe; most were from the well-watched lakes in the south of the area particularly Park Dam, Harold Park and Royds Hall. Breeding was recorded at all three of these locations and also Denton Hall, John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir, Scargill Reservoir, Kex Gill, Marley and at a private lake in Wharfedale. Up to eight birds were seen at Park Dam and Royds Hall in autumn and singles were occasionally seen on the Aire and Wharfe during the winter.

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

This species was well-recorded, with breeding confirmed at 11 widespread locations. Adults were seen displaying, sitting on nests and with juveniles at Fewston Reservoir, Harold Park, John O’Gaunt’s, Knotford Nook, Lindley Wood Reservoir, Ogden Reservoir, Otley Wetland, Park Dam, Royds Hall, Swinsty Reservoir and Yeadon Tarn. In all, 24 juveniles were seen, almost twice the total of last year. At Fewston Reservoir ten birds - an unusually high number for here, and probably a gathering of post-breeding flocks - were there on 30th September. Similarly, at Yeadon Tarn, 12 birds were counted on the annual BOG walk in December.

!16 RED KITE Milvus milvus Resident and scarce breeder.

This year there were 180 records, a slight drop on the two previous years. Perhaps the novelty of seeing these majestic birds soaring over woodland or skimming over rooftops has begun to wear off and there is now the feeling that this species is beginning to suffer from under- recording.

Those birders who combined their interest in walking and birding were often rewarded with excellent views. Up to four Red Kites were occasionally seen on Rombalds Moor and up to six graced the skies over Kex Gill. Others were seen around Leathley and at John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir and Norwood Edge. The biggest single day’s haul was seven on Hazlewood Moor in early August.

The Yorkshire Red Kite Report from Doug Simpson has indicated that there were 61 breeding pairs in West Yorkshire and 40 pairs in North Yorkshire, with an average number of young raised per successful pair of 1.88. Two of the three nests which attracted attention in this area were abandoned, either through storm damage or disturbance caused by woodland management close to the nest. At the third nest, breeding did not take place, though there were signs of pairing and displaying at three other locations in spring.

Away from the Wharfedale and Washburn areas there were many sightings of birds on the southern slopes of Rombalds Moor and an unusual one of a bird flying west very low over Keighley Moor Reservoir on 12th August. Further singles were seen over Greengates on 20th June and Caldene Fields on 26th October.

MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginosus Uncommon but regular passage visitor.

As in 2014, there were reports of eight birds, with the main attention focussed on the west of the area where half of the recorded birds were seen. Careful and persistent watching at a moorland site paid dividends when a male bird was seen on 23 April, later joined by a female. After several hours of watching, during which time both birds were seen to mob passing Buzzards, display flights and talon-grasping occurred. Nest-building was noticed from 16th May and daily checks over the next week gave every indication that incubation may have commenced. Alas that was the end of any further activity as the male, last seen on the 26th, had departed, followed shortly after by the female. A rudimentary nest was found and no disturbance was detected. It was assumed that !17 at least one of the birds was an immature and this accounted for the failed breeding attempt. The weather throughout had been exceptionally cold, wet and very windy and this too could have contributed to the failure (IH).

It the same area a juvenile was seen regularly from 12th August, and according to the keeper, interfered with the grouse shoot. An adult female, first seen on 29th August, stayed on the moor until 20th September (IH). Earlier in the year, a female was seen over Middleton Moor on 22nd March (KM) and on 26th May a male was sighted on Denton Moor (JA). A juvenile was hunting at Bradup on 4th August (SR) and the final record was a female at Apperley Bridge on 4th October (KM).

HEN HARRIER Circus cyaneus Increasingly uncommon passage and winter visitor.

Of the 14 records, all but one were of birds passing through the area in the latter part of the year. The only spring record was a female seen in the north of the area on 31st May (PRo). In September a bird flew over Thornton Moor (JB) on the 10th and another was seen from the Oxenhope watchpoint moving quickly south on the 13th (DB, HC). A ringtail was mobbed by corvids on Keighley Moor on the 18th (IH) and a week later another one flew west over Barden Fell (BV). On the final day of the month a bird was seen hunting over the same moorland (WNS).

On 8th October an adult female, carrying a transmitter, was located on Keighley Moor. The bird was seen again next day and remained in the area until at least the 19th. This was a bird tagged in Bowland in 2014 and known as “Highlander”. She had attempted breeding on two separate occasions with different males, both of which disappeared in mysterious circumstances (IH, NP).

Also during October, a ringtail was seen over Thornton Moor on the 10th (RP) and four days later , on Hawksworth Moor, another was disturbed whilst it was on the ground (WNS). In the final two months a bird was seen jousting with two Short-eared Owls on Whetstone Allotment on 15th November (GM), a juvenile was on Barden Fell on the 25th (BV), and the year ended with reports of a female at Whetstone Gate in late December (KM, RP).

!18 MONTAGU’S HARRIER Circus pygargus Addition to 2014 Report

An adult female was seen on moorland in the south of the area from 8th June to 22nd July, during which time it frequently displayed, and was seen gathering nest material (KM, BV et al)

Despite being well-seen by many observers and photographed, the YNU has still not managed to deliver a verdict, so the record has been assessed and accepted by the BOG Records Panel. The fourth accepted Group record.

GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis Scarce resident/passage visitor

There were two reports of singles, one from the north of the area in March, and one from Paul Clough on 12th October (both KM).

SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus Common resident breeder.

Although records are down by 25%, this species remains widespread. This spectacular raptor was seen on numerous occasions, soaring over woods and flashing through gardens and parks. There were no confirmed breeding records this year, but evidence from reports suggests that behaviour at many sites was a strong indicator of this occurring. During autumn migration, seven birds were watched as they traversed the moorland around the Oxenhope watchpoint and six others were similarly recorded in South Bradford at Caldene Fields.

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

Although the 250 records are slightly down on last year (probably for those reasons mentioned in the Editorial), the species continues to attract attention, and was reported throughout the recording area. In the first three months up to six birds were observed from Denton Moor, Askwith Moor, Barden Scale, Norwood Edge, Slippery Ford and Heights Lane (Bingley). There were also three birds on Shelf Moor in February, further evidence that this species has become established in the south of the area. On 13th May seven birds, most of them on passage, were seen from Keighley Moor Reservoir and in autumn, an aggregate 47 birds was recorded at the Oxenhope Watchpoint. The largest group of these comprised 13 birds which drifted south-westwards on 16th September.

!19 There were numerous reports of breeding, and breeding-related activity. In the north 11 sites produced up to 20 young, with breeding also proved in Airedale, where a family party of two adults and four young were disturbed whilst they fed on Baildon Golf Course on 12th August. In addition, courtship displays were witnessed on Keighley Moor, and at Rivock Edge and Riddlesden, all in the south, and in Wharfedale and the Washburn, where family parties were also noted.

OSPREY Pandion haliaetus Uncommon but regular passage visitor.

Just two birds were seen on northwards migration. On 8th May a bird was seen following the river at Barden Bridge (IS), and on 23rd June another was watched from Barden Scale as it took the same course (BV).

The return passage proved to be rather hectic. The first bird was seen at Keighley Moor Reservoir on 26th August battling against a very strong headwind (IH), and the remaining records were all in September. On the 1st a bird was watched as it flew over a private lake in Washburn (WNS), and on Osprey Peter Curran the 9th two - at least one thought to be a juvenile - were fishing in Lindley Wood Reservoir (AJ, RP), with one of these remaining until the 17th (WNS). On the same day, at the migration watchpoint at Oxenhope, a bird carrying a blue colour ring passed overhead (DB, HC, CJK), and the next day one flew over Soil Hill (BS). Finally, a single frequented Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs from the 22nd until at least 4th October (WNS).

KESTREL Falco tinnunculus Common resident breeder/passage migrant.

The 243 records are only two-thirds of those received during the previous year. This is most certainly due to the reasons given in the !20 Editorial. In 2014, 25% of the Kestrel records came from Barden Scale, but this year there were just six!

Many records included details of pairs hunting together, courtship activity and family groups ranging over rough grassland. At Bradup, Glovershaw, Keighley Moor, Barden Fell and Timble Ings birds involved in activities of this sort were seen in spring; and in late summer juveniles and adults were witnessed interacting. This was particularly well- documented at Warley Moor Reservoir where double-figure counts were registered on five occasions during this summer period.

At three sites in Wharfedale, ten chicks were ringed and a box at Thruscross, thought to have been abandoned, contained four eggs. In the Washburn Valley, ten broods produced a total of 41 juveniles (PRo, CoH).

MERLIN Falco columbarius Uncommon resident breeder and passage migrant.

There were 33 reports from five main locations on the moorland fells. Although breeding was only confirmed at one nest, where five hatched eggs produced four young males and a female, there was plenty of evidence to suggest that there was more of this activity at other sites. Pairs were seen in spring defending their territory and chasing Meadow Pipits.

At one location symbiotic hunting involved a female bird trailing ten metres behind a Marsh Harrier and taking advantage of those passerines flushed by the bigger bird. Nearby there were persistent calls from a female or juveniles whenever the male was hunting (IH). In June and July an adult female was seen with a juvenile (PD&JBP) at one of the main sites. At another location adults and juveniles mobbed a Red Kite and others were keen to chase off a Hen Harrier. Reports also suggested that the mild conditions towards the end of the year had encouraged Meadow Pipits, and subsequently Merlins, to remain on the moor. Records of these birds late in the year are unusual, but a female on 20th November and another watched at close range on 8th December are symptomatic of the changes affecting our climate.

A total of seven birds passed the watchpoint at Oxenhope during September and October.

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

With just 13 records, this was an average year though for reasons mentioned in the Editorial, there may well have been more. Upper Wharfedale has long been an area much favoured by this superb raptor. There was strong evidence of breeding there in 2013, and activity noted this year was again suggestive of this. Two birds were often seen on these fells in June and July, with prey being carried by one of the pair (BV, KM, MD, PD&JBP). A similar situation occurred in the south of the area, where several sightings of adults were followed in July with views of juveniles (IH). An individual moved south at Bramley Head in late August (KM), and in September singles were in Upper Wharfedale (BV) and over Oxenhope Watchpoint (DB, HC).

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

Once more, most of the 40 records submitted were of birds seen in the Aire Valley, particularly in Bradford and Keighley. As in 2014, an adult male was seen on a Bradford chimney throughout January and March. However, after two males, one believed to be a young adult, were seen in the area on 15th March, there were no further reports until 10th October when an adult male was again seen (JL, KM). The situation in Keighley was much more successful, as breeding took place at the site previously used and two juveniles were seen with parents in June (MS).

On Keighley Moor, during August, a large female was watched as it mobbed a couple of Common Buzzards before a passing Hobby joined the fray. In the middle of the month a juvenile was seen to chase a pigeon, which evaded capture by dropping into the heather. The raptor looked in vain for its prey before taking off and then it was seen to unsuccessfully chase a juvenile Kestrel (IH).

There were also reports from Stockbridge, Bradup, Leeshaw and Bingley during the summer months, some of which may have been associated with the Keighley breeding pair (SR, RP, PM et al). Birds were also seen to the south of the valley at Warley Moor Reservoir, Denholme Clough, Haworth Moor and from the watchpoints at Caldene Fields and Oxenhope (MD, KM, CB). In the north of the area a bird was on Hazlewood Moor on 19th August and another was to the west of here on Barden Fell at the end of November (RN, WNS).

!22 WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus Uncommon but regular winter visitor.

The 18 reports concerned seven birds at four different locations. The nature reserve at Stockbridge held birds in both winter periods, with two seen in October and November (SR et al). At Otley Wetland birds were often heard, but on 17th March one called whilst another flew into the reedbed to join it (WNS). Singles were also at Sun Lane Nature Reserve, Burley in March (PD&JBP), and at a private lake in the Washburn on 27th December (AJ).

MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus Resident breeder.

There were reports from over 40 locations with double-figure counts at Harold Park, Yeadon Tarn and Park Dam. During freezing conditions in February this lake attracted 30 birds, considerably higher than any other site, whilst along the Aire 15 birds were recorded during a survey.

Breeding was reported at Redcar Tarn, Yeadon Tarn, John O’ Gaunt’s Reservoir, Harold Park, Sun Lane, Myrtle Park, (Bingley) and Menston, where three pairs were seen with young.

COOT Fulica atra Resident breeder, passage/winter visitor.

The species is ever-present, particularly on lakes and watercourses in urban areas. Seven locations feature in reports (although others went unrecorded) with counts made in both winter periods. The maxima were as follows:

First winter period Second winter period (maximum) (maximum)

Harold Park, Wibsey 24th January 40 17th October 61

Knotford Nook 16th January 25 2nd December 36

Lister Park, Bradford 11th January 18 27th December 15

Otley Wetland 19th January 93 15th December 43

Park Dam, Low Moor 15th January 50 24th October 61

!23 Redcar Tarn, Keighley 14th January 31 9th December 25

Yeadon Tarn 9th February 25 1st November 15

Breeding pairs were reported at these sites, with 30 chicks seen. Notably, Redcar Tarn had three broods and eight chicks and Lister Park three broods and 12 chicks. At eight other likely places, birds were seen and breeding probably took place. No records were submitted from eight other locations where birds were known to present.

Once more careful observation of Coots at Redcar Tarn showed that three of them carried coloured rings. These birds were seen at various stages throughout the year. One, present in January, returned in October, another with an injured leg remained for five months and the third was the bird mentioned in the 2014 Report which was seen in February and November.

OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus Common migrant breeder/passage visitor.

The trend of early returners continues, and in January there were reports of up to three at Cononley Ings, a single at Stockbridge, two at Lindley Wood Reservoir and six at Otley Wetland. During February, many more locations had attracted these distinctive birds, culminating in 51 at Bolton Abbey on the 25th. On 8th March, a Group record count of 140 had congregated at Thruscross Reservoir (KM) and a week later 44 were present at Lindley Wood. Birds at Cononley in late November and December could indicate even earlier movements.

By the end of March pairs were noted on their breeding territory in a large number of locations. Most had chosen to nest near rivers, lakes and reservoirs, but two pairs chose a corrugated roof in Keighley. In May chicks were reported from breeding pairs at Kex Gill and Denton Moor, where a single bird was ringed. Other pairs were seen at many places including Buck Park Quarry where they were using an old tractor tyre, at Leeshaw Reservoir and in the vicinity of the Barden Reservoirs, where four nests were counted. The two breeding pairs at Weecher Reservoir were often seen with their broods probing the greens on Baildon Golf Course. An adult bird was seen to outwit a weasel whilst protecting a juvenile at Keighley Moor Reservoir.

!24 GOLDEN PLOVER Pluvialis apricaria Resident breeder/passage and winter visitor.

There were not the huge flocks which we have come to expect at known sites where this species usually assembles in the winter months. Numbers were of a relatively modest size in the period from January to May, with 500 in a field alongside Ilkley Moor, 320 at Whetstone Gate and 283 at Glovershaw, all in April. Other three-figure counts over 200 were at Middleton and Sandwith Moors and Moorside Lane, Oxenhope. Closer inspection of the flocks at the Oxenhope site, in the Reva/ Glovershaw area and on Middleton Moor showed that they contained birds of the northern race.

Breeding was confirmed at two sites on Rombalds and Keighley Moors where four pairs, two of them with chicks, were reported. At Glovershaw, adults with juveniles were seen feeding on the Golf Course on 13th June and breeding probably took place at Lower Barden Reservoir, Lippersley Pike and on Oxenhope Moor, where birds were active during May and June.

During early autumn a flock of 1500 birds was seen on Sandwith Moor and others of between 120 and 150 were at Silsden Ings and at Barden Scale.

GREY PLOVER Pluvialis squatarola Fairly irregular and scarce passage migrant.

As in 2014 there were just two records, both from the Oxenhope watchpoint. The first bird was on 8th October and the second three days later (DB, HC).

LAPWING Vanellus vanellus Resident breeder/passage and winter visitor.

The 300 records submitted, in line with last year, included the huge winter flocks which we have traditionally attracted. Numbers in excess of 500 were recorded at Denton Hall, and Silsden Ings where 800 were present on 1st February, and in the first three months of the year there were also three-figure counts at Shelf Moor, Redcar Tarn and Otley Wetland. In the final months of the year, large flocks again gathered at Sandwith Moor and Cononley Ings, where 1000 at the former was surpassed with one of 1900 at the latter on 17th December.

There were breeding reports from many sites, but in most cases outcomes were inconclusive and actual numbers of juveniles were !25 difficult to determine. About 25 pairs were spread across the fields at Glovershaw, 30 more were stationed on Whetstone Allotment, 15 in the Leeshaw area and 10 on Middleton Moor. Careful observations at Denton Moor, Reva, Redcar Tarn, Otley Chevin, Slippery Ford, Leeshaw Reservoir and Heights Lane (Bingley), all referred to breeding activity and at most of these chicks were seen. Post-breeding flocks of up to 300 were seen at Lindley Wood Reservoir, Glovershaw and Leeshaw during August and September.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

Reports covered six locations, three in the north and three in the south of the area. At one of the northerly sites a bird was seen on the very early date of 25th March, (the earliest on record) with two here in early April (AJ, WNS) and a single on 2nd June (WNS), but no further information was submitted. The second and third sites in this region both concerned pairs where successful breeding was reported (KM, PRo et al).

In the south, at a well-watched site, the pair in residence failed to breed (KM, IH et al), but there was a better story at another where juveniles were often seen. Throughout July adults with immatures were seen on the shore line, and at the end of that month, the consensus pointed to four young successfully fledged (BV, KM, D&NP).

At a third moorland location, telescope views revealed that a female was sitting on four eggs. The nest was assiduously watched over the next few weeks as the adults protected the area, including once when a grazing sheep got too near!. The eggs hatched on 15th June and at least two chicks were seen, both of which were ringed on the 18th. By July the young had been moved to the water’s edge where they and the female were seen regularly until the final sighting of a juvenile on 2nd August (IH).

RINGED PLOVER Charadrius haticula Passage visitor and erratic breeder.

Once more high shorelines at our reservoirs and other wetlands have considerably limited opportunities for this species and the 20 records, though better than last year, are a pale shadow of the times when much drier conditions prevailed.

Seven locations featured, with pairs seen at Lower Barden Reservoir in April and May, at Swinsty Reservoir in July (PD&JBP, WNS) and at Carr Bottom Reservoir at the end of May (PD&JBP). Single birds were !26 reported at Redcar Tarn and Keighley Moor Reservoir in mid-April (D&NP, IH) and another individual was by the boathouse at Warley Moor Reservoir on 22nd June (CB).

Emphasising the point made earlier, there was much more activity at the partially drained Leeshaw Reservoir where singles and duos were seen regularly. Individuals were reported on eight occasions from 20th June to 4th August and two were present on 30th June and again on three dates in August. During this time a non-flying juvenile was watched, providing the Group’s first breeding record since 2003. Another well- grown juvenile seen at the end of August had clearly not been raised at this site (KM, BV).

WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus Uncommon passage migrant.

There were three records all in the south of the area. The call of a flying bird alerted the observer as it flew over Keighley Moor Reservoir on 20th April (IH) and the second passed Warley Moor Reservoir on 17th May. The third visitor was photographed as it took off from the second location on 12th July (both BS).

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

This species remains strongly attached to our area despite its rapid national decline, as during the period 1994 to 2010 UK numbers have dropped by 46%. We still attract birds to areas of rough pasture and moorland where their plaintive calls were heard and breeding occurred.

At four places, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Glovershaw, Hawksworth Moor and Keighley Moor, juvenile birds were seen in various stages of development. Adults, displaying and defending territory were seen at up to 40 other sites at which breeding may have taken place, though no further information was forthcoming. Post-breeding flocks gathered in the late summer, building to impressive numbers overwintering and on passage, particularly at Cononley Ings, Sandwith Moor and Denton, where 300 were counted in the field opposite the Hall.

BAR-TAILED GODWIT Limosa lapponica Increasingly scarce passage migrant

Ten birds circled Warley Moor Reservoir (Fly Flatts) on 14th March, and then headed off towards the east. This was a record haul, surpassing the previous highest of eight birds at Otley Wetland in May 2006 (CB). !27 RUFF Philomachus pugnax Uncommon passage visitor.

After the exceptional year of 2014 when ten birds were reported, this year proved a huge disappointment with just one record. It was a bird picked out amongst a flock of Lapwings at Cononley Ings on 30th October (KM).

SANDERLING Calidris alba Uncommon and irregular passage migrant.

A single bird was present for two days at the end of July at Keighley Moor Reservoir. This was the second consecutive year this species has been reported (IH).

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

A haul of 23 records was very respectable, considering the optimum conditions for waders were below expectations. All of these reports, with one exception, came from the south of the area, with Warley Moor and Leeshaw Reservoirs scooping the majority.

At the Fly Flatts site, on 22nd March, 30 birds were counted as they fed along the water’s edge before flying off in the direction of Oxenhope a day later (RP, HC). Throughout May, June and July, single birds and duos were found here, and three birds on 25th May. At Leeshaw Reservoir, allowing for some overlapping of daily totals, there were up to three birds during the period from 25th June to 5th July (KM, BV, D&NP). Elsewhere there were four other reports: two on Cononley Ings on 13th March, a single at Silsden Ings on 16th March (both KM), one on a small pond near Redcar Tarn (N&DP) and a bird at Fewston Reservoir, the only northern area record, on 27th August (WNS).

COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleucos Migrant breeder/passage migrant.

This is a reasonably common summer visitor along our rivers, around lakes and reservoirs, illustrated by the 100 or so records. The first bird was seen on 14th April at Warley Moor Reservoir and there followed daily sightings from many places, with a maximum of 11 seen at the Fly Flatts site. Within a few days, the birds were displaying on territory and the breeding process was underway.

!28 On the 31st May a pair with a juvenile was reported at Kex Gill, whilst at Keighley Moor Reservoir in early June a bird was sitting on four eggs. Regular checks showed that the bird continued incubating until about the end of the month when close inspection revealed, as expected, an empty nest and the brood had moved to a safer area. Other pairs with juveniles were also seen at this location and at Strid Wood, Lower Barden Reservoir and Warley Moor Reservoir.

With the breeding process completed, birds were seen leaving the area in late July and August and passage birds were seen at Eldwick Reservoir, Redcar Tarn and Ponden Clough. The final record was a bird at Keighley Moor Reservoir on 3rd September.

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

The numbers of these birds have dwindled considerably, and this year’s reports showed no change to this downward trend. Allowing for overlapping of sightings, there were seven records, the first of which was a bird seen at dusk on 13th June from the Oxenhope Watchpoint (DB). On 22nd July there was another sighting at nearby Warley Moor Reservoir (CB) and on the last day of that month a bird stayed for a further three days at Keighley Moor Reservoir (IH). During August a bird flew up from the river bed at Norwood Bottom on the 7th (WNS) and in the middle of the month one was seen in Denholme Clough (MD). There was a record from Otley Wetland on 24th August (AJ) and the final report was the sighting of two birds on the river at Burley-in-Wharfedale on 28th October (WNS).

GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia Increasingly uncommon passage migrant.

Just three records, all of them in August, were very much in line with the two previous years. On the 9th a bird was seen at Lindley Wood Reservoir (WNS) and on the 24th one arrived at Keighley Moor Reservoir in the early evening before flying off south-east (IH). The final record was at Fewston Reservoir on 28th August (WNS).

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

Unusually, a bird was sighted at Warley Moor Reservoir on 4th January, but the main influx into the area began in March, during which Cononley Ings attracted up to 10 birds, and nearby Silsden Ings had nine on 3rd April. !29 Following the dispersal of birds to moorland breeding grounds, contributors recorded pairs and witnessed evidence of breeding activity at 16 sites. These are indicated in the chart below which shows 22 possible breeding pairs, which produced at least five juveniles.

Distribution of Breeding Redshank

Barden Bridge/ one Kex Gill one pair one Strid pair juvenile

Bradup one Leeming one pair pair Reservoir

Blubberhouses three Leeshaw one pair Moor pairs Reservoir

Burley Moor two Menston one pair two pairs (High Royds) juveniles

Warley Moor one one Middleton three Reservoir pair juvenile Moor pairs

Glovershaw one Scargill one pair pair Reservoir

John O’Gaunt’s two Thornton one pair Res. pairs Moor Res.

Keighley Moor one one Whetstone one pair Res. pair juvenile Gate The high levels of water in reservoirs and lakes, and hence the lack of suitable muddy conditions deterred any further visitors.

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

Last year’s profusion of records was not repeated. This was due almost entirely to access being denied to a private patch of land at Braithwaite Edge, where wintering birds often gathered. There were also no sightings from Soil Hill. However, we did have two records: a bird was flushed from a soggy field at Apperley Bridge which also contained Common Snipe on 1st March and another was seen in similar circumstances at Otley Wetland on 31st January (KM, JA).

!30 WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticola Resident breeder, passage /winter visitor.

This is a species that is probably much under-recorded. It requires late- evening visits to woodlands in May and June, where patience may well be rewarded with the sight of male birds performing their ‘roding’ flights. Stainburn Forest and Timble Ings have long been the best places to see these interesting events and this year at least four birds performed at the first site and a couple at the latter. Birds were also in action in the old station area at Queensbury, at Barden Bridge, and up to possibly three others were at a private woodland. Outside of the breeding season birds were invariably flushed: this occurred at Lower Barden and Lindley Wood Reservoirs, near Redcar Tarn and on Hazlewood Moor.

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

This year there were 11 double-figure counts, all but two of them during the winter months when birds congregated in damp areas, in particular those at Apperley Bridge, Braithwaite Edge, John O’Gaunt’s, and Otley Wetland (KM, JP, WNS). At the first site, 30 were recorded on 12th February and daily visits until the 18th showed an average count of 16 birds. At Braithwaite Edge four visits from 1st January to 13th March revealed an average of eight birds, with a maximum of 17 on the final date (KM). The two other double-figure counts were during early April, when birds had returned to their breeding territories at Fly Flatts and at Glovershaw, where at least six pairs were performing their courtship displays.

Drumming and courtship displays were seen at 14 locations, but only at Bradup, where two juveniles were seen, was breeding confirmed.

ARCTIC SKUA Stercorarius parasiticus Scarce passage visitor

A bird initially seen very close was watched from the Oxenhope Watchpoint as if flew north westwards into the Worth Valley on 25th September (DB, HC). The was ninth Group record.

ROSEATE TERN Sterna dougallii Addition to 2014 Report Increasingly uncommon migrant and summer visitor; particularly scarce inland

The description of a bird seen at Yeadon Tarn on 21st April has been accepted by the Group Records Panel, and thus becomes our first !31 record of the species. Perhaps appropriately, it becomes the final example of several such firsts found by the late Tony Gough.

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

Two birds were seen from 18th to 26th April at Yeadon Tarn (PK) and another pair was first reported at Otley Wetland from 21st April (BV et al). There were numerous sightings of this latter pair throughout the summer. On two occasions a third bird was thought to be on the reserve, but unfortunately, there were no reports of breeding. Over a three day period in July, a juvenile briefly joined roosting gulls on the Beckfoot (Bingley) playing fields and two birds were watched as they fished in the canal at Saltaire (KM, PK). The final report was a bird on Soil Hill on 27th July (CB).

ARCTIC TERN Sterna paradisea Uncommon passage visitor

On 4th July, a bird resting on the shore at Leeshaw Reservoir remained for another 50 minutes before flying away to the west (BV).

KITTIWAKE Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage/winter visitor

Three birds this year, the first records since 2010. On 10th May, the first one was seen in the Riddlesden area (MD) and then on the 18th an immature bird bathed in Warley Moor Reservoir before continuing its journey northwards (CB). During a heavy rain shower, the final bird dropped onto Leeshaw Reservoir with several Black-headed Gulls on 20th November. Once the conditions improved it flew away to the west (BV).

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

Once more there were around 350 records of our commonest gull, with winter totals at roost sites attracting large four-figure totals. During the first winter period numbers at the gull roost at Swinsty Reservoir, containing both Black-headed and Common Gulls, reached 15,000 in February. Towards the end of the year numbers were again building, with daily totals of 3,500. In December, Thornton Moor Reservoir, Cononley Ings and Silsden Ings all contained sizable assemblies. At Brown Royd (Bradford), the number of birds assembling prior to roosting occasionally amounted to over 1,000. !32 The only reference to breeding birds was at the traditional site at Upper Barden Reservoir, when 850 birds were there in April. Juveniles were seen in that area during July and elsewhere across this area later in the summer.

A bird at Redcar Tarn on 21st October and again in early December was carrying a green colour ring with white JE09 on right leg. It was first ringed in a nest near Oslo, Norway on 12th June 2014 and had previously been seen on various dates at the tarn between 12th July 2014 and 13th June 2015 (IH).

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

Just four records and, as last year they were all from the same observer. Two adult birds were seen on 26th May at Redcar Tarn and a juvenile was at Lower Laithe Reservoir on 23rd July. The other two records involved single adults, both at Cullingworth Fields, in November and December (KM).

COMMON GULL Larus canus Very common passage/winter visitor.

The large winter roost at Swinsty Reservoir on 20th February contained 15,000 birds. Although an accurate split between Common and Black- headed Gulls was not made, taking the proportions from 2014 as a guide, it is likely that 40% were Common Gulls. A figure of 6,000 of this species on the reservoir at the end of January is in line with this estimate. Sizable gatherings during the second winter period were at Cullingworth Fields, where 3,200 birds were counted on 21st November, and 1500 at Thornton Moor Reservoir on 20th December.

This species is predominately a winter visitor and records in the summer months are unusual and mainly concern non-breeding birds. A 1st- winter bird was at Stockbridge on 29th June (MD) and an adult dropped onto Keighley Moor Reservoir to roost on 5th July (IH).

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus fuscus Common passage migrant.

This is a species that is mainly seen during the period from April to October when relocation takes place. During these months 11 three- figure totals were recorded, all of them within a relatively small area in the south, namely Cullingworth Fields, Harden Moor, Leeshaw Reservoir, !33 Keighley Moor Reservoir, Redcar Tarn and at the watchpoint at Oxenhope. At the latter location, 1,714 birds were recorded during 34 days of observation, most of them moving south.

Roosts at Thornton Moor Reservoir were considerably down, with averages nearer to 100 than the 350 recorded during the summer of 2014.

A 1st-winter bird carrying a coloured ring inscribed VPM9 was ringed as a pullus at Hirsholm, Frederikshavn, Denmark on 9th July 2014 and was seen at Fairweather Green, Bradford on 4th March remaining in the area until the 13th. Other notable sightings included birds with the dark mantle of the Continental race (L.f.intermedius), of which 53 birds were recorded. There were ten at Brown Royd, Bradford on 28th July, seven at Redcar Tarn on 25th August and smaller numbers at both these places and at Wilsden, Leeshaw Reservoir and Cullingworth Fields at other times (KM).

HERRING GULL Larus argentatus Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

The dramatic increase witnessed over the past two years has continued, as reports show that this species is once again flourishing in the area. In 2012 there were 52 reports, involving 150 birds; this has now grown to 154 reports concerning 2903 birds, the highest totals since local landfill sites ceased operating around 2000. Nowadays, many birds continue to take advantage of the fields around Cullingworth, and it's clear many are now visiting two food-processing factories in the western part of Bradford. What is remarkable is that nearly all of these birds were seen within a five mile radius of Thornton and, as most birds appear to be on passage, double-counting is unlikely.

At sites which were visited regularly, the picture (as supplied by KM) was as follows: Total number Highest monthly Monthly maxima recorded total

Wilsden 233 (Aug. to Nov.) 135 (August) 39 on 26th Aug.

Redcar Tarn 195 (Jan. to Dec.) 35 (October) 21 on 9th Feb.

Cullingworth 943 (Feb. to Dec.) 363 (November) 58 on 15th Nov.

Brown Royd 656 (Jan. to Dec.) 245 (December) 85+ on 26th Aug.

!34 These impressive totals, particularly at sites such as Brown Royd, mark a decisive change away from the more traditional areas such as Thornton Moor Reservoir, which has always dominated past records. Other significant counts consisted of 30 birds at Swinsty Reservoir on 25th January, 19 flying over Queensbury a day later and a flock of a dozen attracted by silage cutting at Glovershaw during early July.

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

It was a very similar picture to 2014, with 18 birds seen at seven locations; all except one bird were reported by the same observer. Seven of the gulls appeared at Redcar Tarn between May and November, these all being non-breeding birds in various stages of development - two juveniles, three 1st-winter, a 1st-summer and a 2nd- summer bird.

At Leeshaw Reservoir, what was thought to be the returning bird of 2014 (now in 2nd-summer plumage) was seen intermittently from spring to early autumn, and briefly also visited nearby Lower Laithe Reservoir. A 1st-winter bird appeared during the last week in August, and a different 2nd-summer was here in early October, also being seen at Thornton Moor Reservoir. The latter site also hosted one of the year’s few adults, in April (CJK), and a 3rd-summer bird in late June.

In Bradford, a 1st-winter, was at Girlington for three days in October, and a juvenile at nearby Brown Royd on 11th August. Finally, four different adults were in the flocks at Cullingworth Fields during late August and early September (KM).

CASPIAN GULL Larus cachinnans Addition to 2014 Report Scarce migrant/possible winter visitor.

The Group’s first records concerned three, and possibly four, different birds. A juvenile was found at Redcar Tarn on 31st July, and another, a juvenile moulting into 1st-winter plumage, was there on 12th August. The same location had an identifiably different 1st-winter bird on 5th September, and what may have been the same one was observed briefly at nearby Cullingworth Fields the following day (KM).

All the birds were photographed, and the records have been accepted by the Yorkshire Naturalists’ Union.

!35 Caspian Gull (top) and with juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gull at Redcar Tarn on 12th August 2014 Keith Moir

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

The 14 reports, concerning 22 birds, represented a drop of a third on the figures for 2014. Ten of the birds were seen during a period of movement and relocation in autumn. At Oxenhope Watchpoint, four of the five birds seen flew south, as did those at Keighley Moor Reservoir, Dudley Hill and Caldene Fields, where three birds were recorded over the period of observations. One bird was at Leeshaw Reservoir on 8th February, and in spring three birds were in the Eldwick area and a 1st- winter visited Redcar Tarn. At Heights Lane (Bingley), always a good vantage point, seven were seen drifting over the valley on four dates from 28th June to 25th July.

FERAL PIGEON Columba livia Abundant urban breeding resident.

As expected, the largest gatherings were in urban areas, with Lister Park, Bradford a focus, particularly in the winter period. Up to 100 birds were regularly reported here, but a short distance away in Girlington the roof of a woollen mill held 250, indicating the abundance of the species. Elsewhere, Long Liberty Farm near John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir attracted 28 birds in October and other double-figure flocks were reported at Bolton Abbey and Ilkley.

STOCK DOVE Columba oenas Resident breeder.

There were 11 double-figure counts, with the largest occurring during the second winter period. Flocks of over 50, the largest being 74, had gathered on Cullingworth Fields from the middle of November to early December. A single flock of 52 birds, surprising the observer, flew over Caldene Fields on 6th November and other migration watches at Oxenhope recorded 31 birds on the 12th.

Other significant gatherings involved 36 birds at Nab Water Lane, Oxenhope in February and 29 at Harecroft in July. Smaller flocks at Glovershaw, Slippery Ford and Leeshaw Reservoir during spring may well have led to breeding, as pairs were often seen at both locations during summer.

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

The proliferation of this bird continues, with another 400 records charting the progress of this omnipresent species. Reports show that gardens, parks, farmland and wooded areas throughout the area have now been colonised. Outside the main migration periods, double-figure counts accounted for 20% of the total with Soil Hill, Heights Lane (Bingley), Shelf Moor and Cononley Ings amongst the main locations.

Seasonal migration figures did not match those of 2014 when over 115,000 birds were recorded. This year, fog and mist on most days hampered observations so an aggregate count of 1,664 over the period at Oxenhope Watchpoint was of little significance. At Caldene Fields, where conditions were a little better, 13,000 birds passed through between 8th October and 25th November, a 125% drop on the previous year.

COLLARED DOVE Streptopelia decaocto Common resident breeder.

There were just over 100 records, in line with 2014, and there was further evidence that the species has peaked due to the unremitting spread of the Woodpigeon, which has severely limited its status as a common bird of parks and gardens.

Pairs were often reported from urban areas and in a few locations, i.e Bingley, Low Moor, Ilkley, Leathley, and Cullingworth, more than one pair was seen. At Queensbury, four pairs were in the Foxhill area and on the site of the disused station a roost of 17 birds was located on 1st April. In the past, there have been few reports recording the movement of these birds, so eight passing over Oxenhope on 23rd October is worthy of mention.

ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET Psittacula krameri Uncommon, possible escapee.

It’s always a surprise to see and hear this attractive parrot and reports of their presence are increasing. This year there were seven records involving 19 birds, all of them in the Aire Valley. Four birds were seen in Chellow Dene and two in the Undercliffe area in March (DB) and a single flew through Cullingworth in July (IS). Nab Wood was the scene of two reports: four in gardens near Moorhead Terrace in August and a repeat, this time with two birds in November (NT). Four birds were in the canal

!38 area at Apperley Bridge in September (ME) and the final report in December was of two at Greengates (AB).

CUCKOO Cuculus canorus Migrant breeder.

The first of the year was seen and photographed on 16th April as it rested on Harden Moor (NP). Within the following two weeks birds were reported across Rombalds and Keighley Moors, Strid Wood and Barden Fell. The majority of the 90 reports were of birds heard, and only in a few cases were clear views obtained. On 20th May on Keighley Moor, a bird was seen at very close range as it was pursued by Meadow Pipits, and a few days later another flew over Glovershaw Lane. On 1st June, a pair were together in the same hawthorn bush on the edge of Barden Moor, a site much-favoured by this species (BV).

A juvenile was seen on Soil Hill on 22nd August, and a week later two young birds attracted attention as they remained in the Taylor Lane area of Queensbury for a few days (CB). The final record was of another juvenile, which was feeding in heather at the far end of Keighley Moor Reservoir on 6th September (IH).

BARN OWL Tyto alba Uncommon resident breeder.

With 65 records, a third of which referred to breeding birds, it was by far the best-ever year for this evocative species. Reports of individual birds came mainly from areas where breeding was successful or attempted. We are clearly reaping the rewards of the conservation work that has been undertaken by the Group and many other dedicated volunteers. This obviously successful approach has been achieved through the erection of specially designed boxes, in carefully chosen locations, and in co-operation with skilled birders. Perhaps it is no surprise that farmers have approached the Group to erect boxes on their land.

All the records came from Airedale and the north of the area and, for the first time, birds were attracted to Stockbridge and an area above the Worth Valley. Fifteen pairs were identified and 35 young birds were reared, most of them ringed (PRo, CoH). One pair, found in a box with 14 Goosander eggs, were non-breeders, whilst at another site there was apparently successful breeding but no further information was received.

!39 LITTLE OWL Athene noctua Common resident breeder.

This year the species was reported at 28 locations, mainly on the moorland fringes, where dry-stone walls provide cover and breeding opportunities. At most of these sites, pairs were seen and breeding was suspected, but only on Denton Moor, where four young were ringed, and in the Washburn Valley, was it confirmed. A juvenile bird was also seen at Low Snowden.

TAWNY OWL Strix aluco Common resident breeder.

This is our commonest owl, reported from a wide range of rural and suburban habitats, including gardens. The 80 records mainly concerned birds from the north of the area, with at least 15 pairs identified as breeders. The seven broods in the Washburn produced 14 young and at seven other sites in Wharfedale seven chicks were seen in various stages of development (PRo, CoH et al). The remaining site was in Judy Woods, where an adult with two young was watched (JB). At two sites the nests either failed or were abandoned, with unhatched eggs at one and dead chicks at the other.

LONG-EARED OWL Asio otus Uncommon resident breeder.

This was a better than average year with seven breeding pairs identified, some using baskets specially placed by the Group and dedicated volunteers. One plantation in the north of the area held up to four breeding pairs where chicks were seen, some of which were later ringed. Two other sites produced successful broods of up to three young at each and at a nest in the south two more young were reared. Outside the breeding period single birds were seen at Heights Lane (Bingley), Fewston Reservoir, Soil Hill and at the Oxenhope Watchpoint where a bird flew close to the observers on 15th September.

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

This was a better year for this species, with sightings reported from 20 different locations across the upland areas of the region. In the north, breeding took place at four sites, displays and bonding were witnessed in March and birds were seen defending territory in May. On the fells in the south, adults carrying food were seen at two sites and at one, three young birds, about 100 metres apart, were located amongst heather. At !40 two other locations in this area adults were regularly seen and one report suggested that three pairs were active across the moorland.

Outside the breeding season an influx of birds in December was reported on the Whetstone Allotment, where up to five birds were regularly seen during the month (SR, RP, IH).

NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus europaeus Scarce summer visitor.

The eight reports were from watchers who spent late evenings at Stainburn Forest and covered the period from 3rd June to 2nd July. The submitted information indicated that at least two, possibly three pairs were active (JA, RL, WNS). Males were heard churring and engaging in wing clapping, and females were seen hawking for insects, but there was no further information concerning breeding.

SWIFT Apus apus Migrant breeder and passage visitor.

The first arrival was on 24th April, a bird flying north over Otley Chevin (WNS). During early May the numbers steadily increased, but reports remarked on the relatively low numbers, and in some areas the lateness at which the species became established. A third of the 175 reports concerned counts of more than 10, with five of these reaching above 200. These were all recorded around Warley Moor Reservoir, with other large post-breeding parties screaming around Queensbury and Otley on warm summer evenings.

There were only a few breeding records where nests were located. These were mostly in Wharfedale, where Burley, Otley and Addingham featured.

Birds began to leave the area at the beginning of August and late sightings included a single feeding with hirundines at Redcar Tarn on 14th September (IH) and, the final record, a bird passing Oxenhope Watchpoint on 18th September (DB, HC, CJK).

KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident breeder.

Once more, the reports reflect the widespread distribution of this popular species. Many birds were seen along the Wharfe, with breeding activity reported at Addingham, Gallows Hill (Otley), Knotford Nook, Ilkley Tennis Club and Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits. Opposite this last location, a nest !41 was washed out on 26th May, but the pair successfully raised a second brood of six young by the end of July (PRo).

Only a quarter of the records were from further south, with only two within the breeding season. One of these was a bird thought to be breeding near Marley Works (MS) and the other, a bird in Newsholme Dean (IH).

Kingfisher Brian Vickers

GREEN WOODPECKER Picus viridis Fairly common resident breeder.

The first yaffling was heard in early February and subsequent reports during early spring confirmed that birds were present around moorland fringes and on the edge of woodland. Pairs were active and breeding took place in Shipley Glen, Marley Hall Farm, Hewenden and probably at Low Snowden, Otley Chevin and Harden Moor, where adults were seen during June.

In the Worth Valley, at Newsholme Dean, and Slippery Ford, there was also evidence of breeding. At Keighley Moor Reservoir, a juvenile was watched at the same spot that one had been seen in 2014. Along Lady Lane (Bingley), where the species hasn’t been reported previously, a fresh juvenile corpse was found.

!42 GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus major Common resident breeder.

There was a 20% drop in reports, which may indicate that some under- recording is occurring due to the widespread nature of this, our commonest woodpecker. In March and April birds were seen and heard establishing territory, chasing through trees and actively involved in breeding in many woodlands.

Breeding was confirmed at Denton, Dob Park, Low Snowden and Middleton Wood, where young were ringed. Adults and juveniles were also reported at Shipley Glen, Newsholme Dean, and Hazlewood. At a private site in the Washburn, a pair was watched during the whole process, from excavating a nest hole through to feeding juveniles away from the nest. An immature was feeding in bushes near the quarry at Whetstone Gate in July and another was at Slippery Ford in August. The owner of a garden nest box was surprised to find that he had inadvertently saved a clutch of Blue Tits from a woodpecker which was determined to break inside!

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopus minor Uncommon and erratic resident breeder.

Just two records, both from the same private woodland. On each occasion a bird was heard calling: the first on 6th April and the second on 20th November (RS, AJ).

MAGPIE Pica pica Abundant resident breeder.

There has been no discernible change in the status of this attractive, but maligned species. The 350 records show that sizable winter roosts have once more caught our attention, with 25 double-figure counts. In February, the filter beds at Dowley Gap held 30 birds and a similar gathering at Queensbury had 19. On the penultimate day of the year, the biggest grouping of 35 birds sheltered in trees in Menston. Post- breeding flocks of more than 10 birds were noted at Slippery Ford, Royds Hall, Denholme, Heights Lane and Park Dam.

JAY Garrulus glanarius Resident breeder.

Records are increasingly showing that this bird’s liking for gardens is becoming more common. 50% of the reports, covering the first three months of the year, were concerned with birds that had been seen !43 around shrubberies and garden feeders. The species has also become established in Newsholme Dean, an area where it was never seen 20 years ago.

Once more, nesting birds were identified in Shipley Glen, along the riverside at Dowley Gap and in the newly-restored Prince of Wales Park (Bingley). In some cases juveniles were seen with adults and at one garden in Ilkley, a post-breeding flock of up to four birds was regularly seen in July.

JACKDAW Corvus monedula Resident breeder and winter visitor.

There were 14 three-figure counts, half of them concerning birds moving through the migration watchpoints. At Caldene Fields and Oxenhope an aggregate of 2203 were recorded in the autumn, the highest being 711 on 17th October. Cullingworth Fields attracted 410 birds on 28th November with Heights Lane, Queensbury, John O’ Gaunt’s and Swinsty Reservoir regularly recording up to 200 birds in the winter months.

Nesting birds were once more recorded at the old Bingley College and in the quarries on Baildon Bank.

ROOK Corvus frugilegus Resident breeder.

Although this species suffers from under-recording there were reports from some of the rookeries where nests were counted and breeding took place. The careful process of building these prominent structures begins in the depths of winter, and repairs after winter gales carry on into the spring. The three main rookeries were at Lady Lane (Bingley), John O’ Gaunt’s and along the A65 at Menston and contained a total of 46 nests. Smaller gatherings mentioned in reports were at Lucy Hall Drive (Baildon), Leathley and at Bolton Park Farm (Barden). Juvenile birds were seen with adults in the fields at Glovershaw in July.

CARRION CROW Corvus corone Resident breeder.

As in recent years, the 400 reports covered birds seen in small numbers and the large flocks, which were once a feature of the winter landscape, do not appear. Sizable gatherings were in the south of the area at Park Dam, Royds Hall and at Judy Woods, where the largest count of 110 was recorded at the end of January.

!44 Post-breeding flocks of up to 200 were seen at Sandwith Moor in August, where the birds roosted in the nearby plantation. In the same month, up to 40 were recorded at Royds Hall, Cullingworth and Gallows Hill.

RAVEN Corvus corax Increasingly common resident/scarce breeder.

Numbers were slightly down on last year, due to circumstances referred to elsewhere in this Report, but with nearly 70 records there was still a respectable haul. Such numbers, seen throughout the year over most of the upland areas, confirm that the species is now well-established. Over 100 birds featured in the reports, with post-breeding parties seen at well- watched locations in the south of the area. Clashes with other species, particularly Buzzards and Kestrels, were watched, and in the case of a bird on Baildon Moor, a chase involved breeding passerines.

A family of two adults and four juveniles was regularly watched at one site from the end of May until early July. This was the only evidence of breeding.

GOLDCREST Regulus regulus Passage/winter visitor and occasional breeder.

There was just one double-figure count, ten birds in Ogden Plantation on 11th November; otherwise it was a quiet year. The other maxima were six at John O’Gaunt’s in November and in Lister Park in December. Birds were occasionally seen in gardens, particularly amongst ivy and in conifer trees and bushes. There was a possibility of breeding with two pairs seen in Dob Park Wood in summer.

BLUE TIT Parus caeruleus Abundant resident breeder.

Data from the north of the area, where the monitoring of nest boxes has taken place, shows that breeding has produced results in line with 2014. In Wharfedale, 46 boxes produced 266 young, and in the Washburn, 155 broods were examined with a similar 80% success rate (PRo, CoH). The results appear to disprove the impression that a cold May was likely to lead to a poor breeding year. Elsewhere, juveniles and adults were seen in Shipley Glen and Prince of Wales Park and no doubt in other woodlands, but these events were either overlooked or not reported.

!45 GREAT TIT Parus major Abundant resident breeder.

As with the previous species, data was gathered from breeding birds in the north of the area, and once more the evidence shows that the progress noted in 2014 has been maintained. In Wharfedale, 36 boxes produced 185 young birds and in the Washburn 71 broods were recorded, figures which show a slight improvement on 2014 (PRo, CoH). Family parties, where adults were seen feeding juveniles, were seen in June at Gallows Hill, Shipley Glen, Glovershaw and Prince of Wales Park.

COAL TIT Parus ater Resident breeder.

A flock of 20 at Ogden in February and another of 28 at Timble Ings in April were the pick of the 80 records. Birds were seen nest building in Lady Lane (Bingley) and at Upwood Farm (Riddlesden), where the pair were watched taking materials into a wall cavity. At Menston a pair used a nest box and successfully raised seven young (PRo).

MARSH TIT Parus palustris Scarce and decreasing resident.

This year there were three records, which may refer to the same bird: a single seen at Lindley Trout Farm on 27th January, 11th and 20th March (RP, AJ, WNS).

SKY LARK Alauda arvensis Resident breeder/passage migrant.

Birds had returned to their upland breeding grounds in February, with up to 12 seen regularly on the golf course at Baildon and the cricket pitch at Queensbury. Over 20 were on Soil Hill and also near Ogden Reservoir in March and singing birds were reported throughout the summer from much of our moorland.

Breeding was confirmed on Hawksworth Moor, where two pairs were located, and adults feeding juveniles were seen at Glovershaw, where ten pairs were counted in April. The largest post-breeding flock was seen at Queensbury, with 15 birds on the cricket pitch and 12 others in the adjoining fields.

The migration watch at Oxenhope produced an aggregate of 83 birds, hampered throughout by foggy conditions during the autumn. !46 SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia Common migrant breeder/passage visitor.

The first bird was seen moving rapidly northwards over Trough Lane (Denholme) on 14th March, but it was another two weeks before the next report - ten over Otley Wetland. At Yeadon Tarn 75 birds were feeding over the water on 9th April before dispersing into the river valleys.

By mid-April, birds were seen at their breeding sites along the Wharfe, between Ben Rhydding and Bolton Abbey. Two smaller colonies, one at the quarry on Harden Moor and another in Denholme Clough, where three holes were in use, were watched during the summer. Up to five pairs were breeding on the river at Burley-in-Wharfedale, six at Gallows Hill and 15 at Strid Wood, but no specific details were recorded about other known well-established colonies.

SWALLOW Hirundo rustica Common migrant breeder and passage visitor.

This year’s first arrival, a single bird, was seen at Riddlesden on 6th April, but two days later more than 100 birds were in the air over Marley Hall Farm.

Breeding took place at many farms throughout the area and at Thornton Moor Reservoir, where the eaves of a water tower were used. A pair that arrived at a traditional site in Addingham on 9th April raised two broods before they departed in early August. In the north of the area, where 33 nests were examined, 90 young birds were ringed (PRo).

The movement of birds passing the watchpoints commenced in early August and continued through September. At Oxenhope, a total of 6,269 birds were recorded during the period of observation, with maximum day counts of 2,619 on 13th September and 2,217 on the 16th.

HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica Common migrant breeder and passage visitor.

Two birds feeding over Yeadon Tarn on 9th April were the first arrivals, the same date as in 2014. By 25th April, flocks of over 40 birds were seen on a couple of occasions along the Aire Valley. There were more double-figure counts in May and June around John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir, Eldwick, and Leeshaw Reservoir, where nests were built under the water tower.

!47 Post-breeding flocks of up to 50 fed over Hewenden Reservoir, Marley Farm, Keighley Moor Reservoir and around Queensbury in August. A pair was still feeding young at Crossflatts in early September when a movement of 136 passed the Oxenhope Watchpoint. This figure rose to 1,164 on a day of widespread movement on the 16th, part of an aggregate total of 2,236 recorded during that month.

LONG-TAILED TIT Aegithalus caudatus Common resident breeder.

This popular species was once more well-reported and nests were identified at Cullingworth, Prince of Wales Park, Bingley Bog North, Dob Park and a couple of sites in Wharfedale. Family parties were evident during June: a single flock of 32 was seen at Fewston, and a garden in Ilkley recorded up to a dozen adults and juveniles. Numerous autumn flocks were recorded with the largest, 30 birds, in the plantation at Timble Ings.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER Phylloscopus inomatus Vagrant: scarce at inland sites.

During a massive national influx of this species, when, for example, 76 were recorded on Fair Isle alone there were two local records, both in October. The first was at Stockbridge on the 4th (SR) and the second on the 16th at Pool (AJ). These were only the third and fourth records, the previous ones being in 2012 at Ogden Plantation and in 2013 at Denton Hall.

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

Birds were reported at three locations: St Ives, where males were seen on 26th April and again at the end of May, Dob Park, where another was heard on 28th June, and Heber’s Ghyll, where three were present at the beginning of June (MD, MS, WNS). Unfortunately, for the first time in the Group’s history there were no records from the previously reliable Strid Wood. There were also no reports of breeding.

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

Once more this species has been reported in every month of the year. Overwintering birds were present at Dowley Gap in January and a male was heard at Esholt on 28th February. Two more were singing at Otley Wetland at the end of March, the prelude to outbursts of song from many !48 more males in April, when double-figure counts were registered at a number of locations. These included Dob Park, Hewenden Reservoir, Timble Ings and St. Ives. A walk around the reservoirs in the Washburn on 7th April produced a count of 35 males. Several pairs were watched, but the only evidence of breeding was at Stockbridge, where an adult was seen feeding three juveniles.

WILLOW WARBLER Phylloscopus trochilus Common migrant breeder/passage visitor.

The first arrivals were heard on 4th April, and within the following three weeks, five double-figure counts were reported, with 36 on the slopes of Rombalds Moor and a staggering 54 at Timble Ings, just ahead of the previous Group record (WNS). During May, there were further significant counts of ten at Harden Moor, 28 on Otley Chevin, 13 at John O’Gaunt’s and 28 at Glovershaw. At most of these places, adults were actively engaged in breeding and family parties began to appear in July and August. Once the dispersal was underway in September, numbers declined, with three reports referring to individuals moving in association with tits.

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

This is another species that has increasingly been seen visiting gardens during the winter periods. This year was no exception, with single females recorded in each of the first three months and a single male visited a Burley garden in December.

In spring up to 15 males were singing in the Washburn Valley and eight others were heard at Otley Wetland. Elsewhere, good numbers of singing males were reported at Raw Nook, Hewenden, Heber’s Ghyll, Gallows Hill and Otley Chevin. Breeding was suspected at these places, whilst in the Aire Valley at Stockbridge, Marley, and on Harden Moor, juveniles were seen with adults.

As birds began to disperse in August, what few remained were occasionally seen with other species.

GARDEN WARBLER Sylvia borin Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

As in 2014 there were 40 records, mainly from the Washburn and Otley Wetland, where the species was often recorded. Five singing males at the Wetland on 4th May was the highest site-count, and others were !49 present at six locations in the Washburn. Elsewhere, St. Ives, Harden Moor, Stockbridge, and Riddlesden were all places where males were heard. Pairs were also identified at Sun Lane Nature Reserve (Burley- in-Wharfedale) and Strid Wood, but the only breeding activity was noted at Otley Wetland. A late record at Otley, in early September, concerned three birds near Brickhouse Farm.

LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca Increasingly uncommon migrant and passage visitor.

It was another reasonable year with five records. The first was a male at Lindley Wood Reservoir on 1st May (WNS). At Sun Lane Nature Reserve another male was located on 9th May (PD&JBP) and four days later a third bird was heard at Toad Holes Beck, a site often associated with this species (MP). On 3rd June one was reported on Guiseley Moor (WNS) and the final record came from Low Moor, where a bird was located on 6th July (MP).

WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis Passage visitor/fairly uncommon breeder.

An attractive song delivered from an open aspect usually announces the presence of this species. Unfortunately, this year records have declined by 50% and the number of locations is down by a third. The first male was heard on Otley Chevin on 24th April, and although very little breeding evidence was submitted, an estimate suggests that about 25 pairs were involved. Adults were seen near Crook Farm (Baildon) in June, a juvenile was noted on Harden Moor on 8th August and others were seen whilst dispersing around Baildon Golf Course and at Slippery Ford.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia Uncommon passage migrant and occasional breeder.

The ten records are related to five birds. The first was trapped and ringed on Baildon Moor on 22nd April (RB) and the second was heard on five occasions from 10th May until 5th July at Stockbridge (M&PR, SR, MD). In early June, a reeling bird was heard at Timble Ings (AJ, PC) and in July another was located in dense bushes by Harden cricket pitch (MD, JM). The final record was on the northern edge of Soil Hill on 23rd August (CB).

!50 SEDGE WARBLER Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

A male, almost certainly on passage, was seen in a large garden in Burley-in-Wharfedale on 14th April and other two other males were located at Otley Wetland and Knotford Nook on 4th May. Apart from these three and singles at Fewston and John O’Gaunt’s Reservoirs at the end of May, the only other record involved our one breeding pair on Soil Hill (BS).

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

Once more the main focus was at Otley Wetland, where up to four males were heard throughout the spring. Other singing birds were seen at Knotford Nook in May, Menston in June and at Stockbridge, where an active pair was seen carrying food into the reed bed on 28th June (SR).

NUTHATCH Sitta europaea Resident breeder.

Numerous records point to the frequency of sightings in gardens, particularly those adjacent to woodlands. Most of the reports were from the north of the area, with 25% from one garden in Ben Rhydding, where the feeders proved irresistible. Up to ten birds were regularly seen in Strid Wood, Shipley Glen and at a private lake in the Washburn. Good numbers were also seen in the south at Judy Woods, and the species was also present at inner-city parks in both Bradford and Keighley.

Breeding was similarly widely reported, particularly at Shipley Glen and Upwood (Riddlesden), where adults were seen feeding young. In the Washburn the species did very well, with 11 broods producing 56 young. The birds preferred to nest in relatively young plantations around reservoirs instead of ancient woodlands such as Folly Hall (CoH).

TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris Resident breeder.

The 75 records covered mature woodlands, and in a few cases, large gardens, particularly in Wharfedale. In one case, spillage from a fat cake, which had fallen into the grooves of bark, was taken as the bird moved up the tree. Pairs were identified in Shipley Glen, Hirst Wood, Addingham and Strid Wood, where feeding at the nest site was observed. An adult with four juveniles was seen (on the trunk of a willow) at Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits on 30th June. !51 WREN Troglodytes troglodytes Common resident breeder.

Generally this species is overlooked, but nine double-figure counts clearly show that it is abundant. In spring up to 40 birds were located in the Lower Washburn, and up to 30 at Timble Ings, John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir and Thruscross. There were also high counts at Barden, Strid Wood and Royds Hall, where the bird continues to flourish.

Breeding was suspected at each of these locations and at Keighley Moor Reservoir, Glovershaw and at Yew Tree Farm (Clifton), where four young were ringed.

STARLING Sturnus vulgaris Resident breeder/winter visitor.

A murmuration of 5000 at twilight over Eastburn in early January was the most significant record. Other gatherings during the winter periods were dwarfed in comparison, and 500 on Sandwith Moor and up to 300 at Heights Lane, Redcar Tarn and Glovershaw were the highest of 21 other double-figure counts.

A nest in an Ilkley garden wall and juveniles in a Bingley garden were the only definite records of breeding but post-breeding was better reported, with flocks gathered at Glovershaw, Middleton Moor, Queensbury, Slippery Ford and Menston at the end of May.

Figures from the watchpoints show that the major part of the migration took place at the end of October. Of the 4,260 counted at Oxenhope, 1075 passed on the final day.

DIPPER Cinclus cinclus Common resident breeder.

The ideal conditions provided by our fast-flowing streams have proved to be an excellent environment for this popular species. Throughout the length of the Wharfe breeding took place, with pairs identified from Barden Bridge to Otley Wetland. Along the stretch by the Ben Rhydding Gravel Pits, two nests were located and a total of seven juveniles were ringed, whilst at Thruscross Reservoir, adults were feeding young at the end of May

Along the River Aire and its tributaries, pairs were seen on the Worth at Slippery Ford, on Harden Beck, near Ireland Bridge (Bingley) and at the !52 bottom of Load Pit Beck (Shipley Glen), but there was no further evidence of breeding.

RING OUZEL Turdus torquatus Passage migrant and increasingly uncommon breeder.

Ring Ouzel Peter Curran

It was another interesting year, with birds seen at seven locations, mainly on spring and autumn passage. There were two confirmed reports of breeding, the first since 2012. The first arrivals were two birds on Burley Moor on 9th April (JT); this figure rose to ten a week later (WNS). During the period 16th to 25th April, up to six birds were watched on Soil Hill (BS, NP), a single was at Timble Ings (JB) and later, on 9th May, an individual was at Whetsone Gate (MD).

Breeding took place on Barden Moor, where three young fledged in June, whilst at Kex Gill a male was seen carrying food to a nest (WNS, PRo). The final record was a solitary juvenile on Beamsley Beacon on 19th July (WNS).

BLACKBIRD Turdus merula Very common resident breeder/winter visitor.

This was another well-recorded species, with many double-figure counts in winter from semi-rural and urban areas. Reports of 27 at Otley !53 Wetland and 29 at Ogden Reservoir in November confirmed that the species remains abundant. Other significant reports from Heights Lane, Royds Hall, Gallows Hill and Baildon Bank in spring and summer noted pairs involved in breeding activity. In Wharfedale juveniles were ringed at Menston and Dob Park, but early attempts at a nest in Addingham failed, probably due to frosty nights in April, when conditions were at their worst. The resilience of this species was duly demonstrated with some reports showing that pairs had two broods.

FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris Winter visitor and passage migrant.

During the first winter period 11 three-figure counts were reported with the largest, the only flock of over 300, seen at Yarnett House on Denton Moor. Over 200 ground-feeding birds gathered at Haverah Park, Glovershaw and Bolton Abbey during February before the final record, a flock of 130 flying northwards over Halton Height on April 6th.

The first autumn arrivals, 11 in a hawthorn bush in Riddlesden (PF), were seen on 29th September. This event presaged the movement of flocks across the watchpoints which gathered pace on 16th October and culminated in a surge on 31st October, when 9,541 were counted during a day’s observations at Oxenhope (HC, DB). The aggregate of 13,460 was a satisfactory haul considering the many disappointments during long periods of fog. The conditions at Caldene Fields were better; over a 15 day period the aggregate of 2,922 was boosted by day totals of 834 and 942 on 8th and 17th November respectively. All these birds were moving through and away to the south west and we were left with just one sighting in December, 42 birds on Soil Hill.

SONG THRUSH Turdus philomelos Resident breeder/winter visitor.

Singing males were heard in January and regularly throughout the first winter period, with six recorded between Barden Bridge and Strid Wood on 21st February. Breeding birds included two pairs actively engaged at these locations and others were similarly involved at various sites in the Washburn, where comments suggest that the species was doing well. Three pairs were reported around Addingham, two at Heights Lane and one other couple was watched at Cullingworth in June. Five birds were heard at Timble Ings in summer but the only record of any breeding outcomes were four young seen in gorse at Low Snowden.

!54 REDWING Turdus iliacus Winter visitor and passage migrant.

In the first winter period there were seven three-figure and 40 double- figure counts stretching across the area. The largest gathering was 180 at Menston, but other significant flocks were at Shelf, Stoney Ridge Plantation, where singing birds were heard, and on the southern slopes of Rombalds Moor. Up to 80 birds were in the Low Moor area in February; a similar number fed in the fields at the bottom of Shipley Glen and 50 had landed in Lister Park in March. The final report was of a pair, seen mating as they made their way northwards at Kex Gill on 7th May.

The eagerly-awaited return passage of migrating birds was at its most intense between 11th and 19th October. Over 20,000 were counted at Oxenhope and 11,889 at Caldene Fields during this time; the total at both sites during the whole period of observation was 33,447. This figure was almost identical to that of 2014, but somewhat behind that of 2013 when 39,497 birds were recorded.

Once the passage was over, there were very few reports, consisting of a flock of 40 at Menston and a few at John O’Gaunt’s and Hewenden during December.

MISTLE THRUSH Turdus viscivorus Resident breeder and passage migrant.

Singing birds in January were heard, and throughout the rest of the first winter period pairing-up and territorial behaviour was evident, particularly in Shipley Glen, where up to 11 were regularly seen. On Baildon Bank and at Slippery Ford adults with juveniles were noted at the end of May, and it was at the latter site that a post-breeding flock of 46 had gathered prior to roosting on 5th July. Other double-figure flocks were seen in late summer in the south of the area and at Glovershaw and Barden Fell.

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

The first report, the second earliest ever, was a bird seen in Strid Wood on 25th April (D&HK). The earliest seen in this recording area was in the same woodland on 23rd April 1993. Another relatively early arrival was in the Washburn Valley on 2nd May and three others were at Ogden Reservoir on the 16th.

Two breeding pairs were watched between Barden Bridge and Strid Wood, and other nests were reported at Hazlewood and in Newsholme !55 Dean, where there were three. On Denton Moor four young were ringed, and at Fewston Reservoir two nests near the Water Board House contained eight young. Family parties were well-reported. In July they were seen at Heber’s Ghyll, Swinsty Reservoir and Eldwick Reservoir, and in August at Glovershaw. Departing migrants comprised six birds in Denholme Clough in late August, and at least 12 in Ogden Plantation on 8th September.

Spotted Flycatchers Phil Matthews

ROBIN Erithacus rubecula Resident breeder/winter visitor.

Another 400 reports showed that pairs were formed in January and the defending of territory in gardens, parks and woodland scrub commenced. In these types of habitat, its presence is never in doubt and 18 birds were counted on a circuit of Strid Wood and the Barden Fell plantations in February.

Many nest-sites were reported, and one such in an Ilkley garden contained eggs on 25th February. In May, juveniles had fledged in Bingley and the following month others were seen at Knotford Nook and Ben Rhydding. More records concerned breeding and included these sites and also those at Hewenden and Harden Moor. A successful nest in Burley-in-Wharfedale was situated in an old plant pot, left at an angle inside a greenhouse.

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

A bird at Low Snowden on 14th April was the first arrival, followed in the next two weeks by the bulk of the migrants. Four males were in full song in Strid Wood and nest boxes in the north of the area were in use by the end of the month. Breeding activity resulted in 28 nests in the Washburn producing 127 juveniles, all of which were ringed, as well as six adults (PRo, CoH).

A move away from traditional breeding sites is beginning to pay dividends. Boxes erected from 2003 onwards in the woods surrounding Swinsty and Fewston Reservoirs now regularly attract this species. On 19th August on Keighley Moor, a bird was seen in the bracken with a mixed flock consisting of Meadow Pipits, Stonechats and Willow Warblers.

BLACK REDSTART Phoenicurus ochruros Uncommon passage visitor, casual breeder

There were four records of single birds, all in the Oxenhope area, the first on 6th April at Nab Water Lane (IS) and the second two days later at Warley Moor Reservoir (CB). On 1st August, one was seen with three Wheatears, again at Nab Water Lane (BV) and the final record was a 1st-winter male at Leeshaw Reservoir on the 30th (KM, RP).

REDSTART Phoenicurus phoenicurus Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

The first sighting was a male at Norwood Bottom on 14th April and throughout the rest of that month numbers increased at the traditional sites in the Washburn and Strid Wood. Four males sang at John O’Gaunt’s, three at Storiths and up to ten birds were identified between Norwood Bottom and Swinsty Reservoir on the 27th. Three days later, eight birds were identified in Strid Wood and along the back road to Cavendish Pavilion. Breeding was observed at these locations and at Folly Hall Wood, where one pair raised six young (CoH). Four young were ringed from three nests at Denton Moor, and four nests in the Dob Park Wood/Low Snowden areas produced 12 juveniles (PRo). Birds dispersing were reported at Glovershaw, Harden Moor, Denholme Clough and on Roper Lane, Queensbury. The final record was a male and two females at Ogden Reservoir on 8th September.

!57 WHINCHAT Saxicola rubetra Migrant breeder/passage visitor.

The first sighting, a bird at Nab Water Lane, was recorded on 24th April. A male on Barden Moor and another on Hazlewood Moor in spring gave strong hints of breeding, more conclusive in the case of the latter, when a family party was seen in August. A total of 26, mainly singles, dispersed across moorland during August and September, with adults accompanying juveniles at Slippery Ford, Snowden Moor, Ilkley Moor and Glovershaw, where the final birds were seen on 26th September.

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

The improvement in this bird’s fortunes, referred to in last year’s Report, was maintained with records of at least nine breeding pairs. These were spread across the area, with two on Barden Moor, three on Rombald’s Moor, one at Kex Gill, one at Baildon, one in the Washburn and the ninth on Keighley Moor. At all these sites breeding activity was reported and a total of 15 juveniles were seen. Birds lingered on until the end of the year, the largest count being four at Whetstone Gate on 25th November.

WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe Very common passage visitor and occasional breeder.

Two very early males at Leeshaw Reservoir on 14th March set the scene for an influx that continued throughout the next two months. In that period reports indicated that 365 were seen, with the biggest concentration from 15th April to 8th May, when two-thirds of the birds passed through.

A female on Pennythorn Hill (Baildon) on 4th June and two males and a female at Ogden Reservoir a week later, may have suggested local breeding. A much stronger case was in the form of 11 adults and juveniles at Warley Moor Reservoir on 12th July.

The return migration figures showed that 345 birds were reported from a wide area of moorland. Double-figure counts were seen at Hazlewood Moor and Warley Moor Reservoir, where 100 were recorded during a 10 day period in August, 30 of them on the 20th. The final record was a bird on Keighley Moor on 19th October.

!58 DUNNOCK Prunella modularis Common resident breeder.

The 230 reports gave sufficient evidence to confirm that this is one of our most widespread species, with coverage throughout the year. Eight at Redcar Tarn in February, 10 at Judy Woods and eight others at Dowley Gap and Hirst Wood in April were the highest totals recorded. Pairs probably bred at many places, but the only positive evidence was in Bingley, where three juveniles were watched, and at Gallows Hill where a brood was found.

HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus Resident breeder.

Flocks of over ten were reported at a variety of urban locations, particularly in South Bradford. The species appears to flourish in the region of Park Dam, Fenwick Drive (Woodside) and Bierley, where counts reached 40 in the winter months. Elsewhere at this time, over 20 were regularly seen around feeders on the Coach Road, Baildon, ten in a Haworth garden and 30 in the village of Cononley.

At nest boxes at Roebuck Lane (Clifton) and Menston, a total of eight young were ringed.

TREE SPARROW Passer montanus Increasingly common, resident breeder.

The resurgence of this species continues in the north of the area, where the hot spots are in habitats close to villages in Wharfedale and the Washburn. In particular Clifton, Timble, Farnley and Sun Hill Nature Reserve all featured, with 52 nest boxes producing 162 young, all of which were ringed (PRo). At Timble (28), Sun Lane (50) and Clifton (68) numbers were down on last year and this pattern was confirmed from the Washburn, where brood sizes of two or three were common, compared with the usual four or five. In winter, up to 12 birds regularly visited a garden in Addingham, where a pair successfully used a nest box in June.

YELLOW WAGTAIL Motacilla flava Increasingly uncommon passage visitor. Two males seen near the show ground at Otley on 4th May were on passage (JA), but another on the river at Gallows Hill in June and July, was possibly breeding, though this was unconfirmed (PM, SL). A bird was in Denholme Clough at the end of August and another was present at the watchpoint at Oxenhope on 15th September (DB & HC).

!59 Yellow Wagtail Stephen Lilley

GREY WAGTAIL Motacilla cinerea Resident breeder and winter visitor.

Reports showed that the birds began to return to the rivers from wintering at sewage works and the coast in the middle of March, when six were seen by the Wharfe. Breeding activity was noticed along this river during April, and in the Washburn and at Bingley. At Strid Wood in early May, three pairs were nesting on a three-quarter mile stretch of the river and juveniles were seen at 16 other sites. These family parties were reported at Harold Park, Redcar Tarn, Riddlesden, Thruscross Reservoir, Hewenden Reservoir and Burley-in-Wharfedale. Six young were ringed at Ben Rhydding, five in a culvert at Denton and four at Norwood Bottom in June. In September a bird visited an Ilkley garden and in the following month another was seen on balconies at Byron Mews, Bingley.

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

The only three-figure counts concerned 100 overwintering at Dowley Gap and a large roost of a similar size at Brook Street (Ilkley) in March. Otherwise, the species was recorded widely around watercourses in winter and at farms in spring and summer. Adults feeding juveniles and family parties were reported at various reservoirs, at Strid Wood, Heights Lane and in the garden section of a DIY store at Crossflatts. Two nests at Low Snowden and two others at Menston produced 16 young, all of which were ringed (PRo). !60 Visibility at Oxenhope Watchpoint during October was greatly hampered by mist and fog and the aggregate total of 369 was 30% down on 2014. However, there were 16 double-figure counts, the highest being 34 on 22nd September and 12th October. At Caldene Fields, a modest total of 180 was achieved after 35 days of recording.

TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis Uncommon migrant breeder/passage visitor.

At Stainburn Plantation on 16th April four new arrivals were singing and displaying. Two more were seen at Timble Ings, and singles were at St. Ives, Otley Chevin, Harden Moor and Storiths during late April.

There was no evidence of breeding, though there were indications that it took place at Stainburn Plantation. Departing birds were recorded at Soil Hill and Denholme Clough in August and at Warley Moor and Oxenhope Watchpoint in September.

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

During March returning birds were reported, as they established territory and performed their aerial displays over the breeding areas. As the weather improved, over 300 flew north over Warley Moor Reservoir on 5th April and double-figure counts were made at Addingham Moorside and on Barden Moor. Adults involved in breeding were reported at Glovershaw, Otley Chevin, Bradup and Thornton Moor, where juveniles were seen in late June.

Prior to the moorland exodus, post-breeding flocks of up to 200 gathered at Warley Moor Reservoir, Morton Moor and on Keighley Moor at the end of August and early September.

The autumn migration total of 11,627 at Oxenhope Watchpoint included daily maxima of 1,395 birds on 23rd September, and 1,624 on 8th October.

CHAFFINCH Fringilla coelebs Resident breeder, passage/winter visitor.

Wintering flocks reached double figures at Judy Woods, Shelf and Menston, with the largest one of 30 at Redcar Tarn on 1st January. As in 2014, a large proportion of the 400 reports came from just a handful of contributors and their attention to detail shows that there has been a !61 decline in the large flocks previously seen in winter. In spring, surveys of breeding territory at Addingham, Thruscross Reservoir, Strid Wood, John O’Gaunt’s Reservoir and Norwood Bottom produced up to 40 birds but the only juveniles seen were in a Riddlesden garden.

At the autumn migration watchpoints, Oxenhope recorded 405 and Caldene 210. The main period of passage took place from 1st to 19th October, with the biggest day count 109 on the 1st at the moorland site.

BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla Regular but erratic winter visitor.

In the first three months, the biggest flocks were 15 at Strid Wood and 12 at Redcar Tarn, whilst eight visited a garden in Addingham and five others were regulars at feeders in Riddlesden.

Most activity in the second winter period happened during migration with the watchpoints recording 95% of the 60 birds. Those seen away from here were singles at Riddlesden in October, and Ogden Reservoir and Burley-in-Wharfedale in November.

GREENFINCH Carduelis chloris Resident breeder,passage and winter visitor.

This was another year of stability, the species having suffered badly from the effects of the Trichomonosis virus in 2005. A wintering flock of 25 at Marley Hall Farm in January was easily the largest, with one of 13 in a Burley-in-Wharfedale garden a distant second.

Singing males included at least six in the Oats Royd area of Queensbury and breeding was recorded in Bingley, where a couple of families visited feeders in June.

During the autumn migration an aggregate of 266 passed through Caldene Fields and 233 flew over Oxenhope. The best day-counts were 37 at the former site on 17th October and 31 at the latter, two days later.

GOLDFINCH Carduelis carduelis Resident breeder, passage visitor.

With 335 records, it was a similar picture to last year and once more there were comments about the abundance of this species. During the first three months, flocks of over 25 were regularly seen feeding in gardens and coppices in the Aire Valley.

!62 At Low Snowden and Menston young birds were ringed and a large post- breeding flock of 200 was seen feeding on seed heads at Timble Ings on 30th September. Over 35 other such gatherings, from July to the end of October, were more modest, being in the range 25 to 80.

Once more, intensive work by migration watchers produced impressive figures, with Caldene Fields recording an aggregate of 1,964 (an increase of 25% compared to 2014) and at Oxenhope the figure of 1,206 was 67% higher than the previous year.

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

Of the 15 double-figure counts, six were in late summer and nine during the winter months. Although there were impressive flocks of 50 at Norwood Bottom and 40 at Fewston Reservoir in September, they were well down on the three-figure counts associated with this species as recently as 2012.

A pair was located in woodland above White Wells (Ilkley Moor) in June and juveniles and adults visited gardens in Ilkley and Bingley at the beginning of July. A juvenile had also visited a Riddlesden garden on 30th May.

Autumn migration watchers recorded a total of 263 birds at Oxenhope and 145 at Caldene Fields during their periods of observation.

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

There has been a significant national decline in this species, which has paid a high price for the widespread changes in farming practices.

In the north of the area, sporadic reports were of small numbers, with the majority from Low Snowden, where three pairs were seen in June. Airedale fared much better, with pairs at Glovershaw, Guiseley Moor, Harden Moor and on Whetstone Allotment, where bids were seen gathering horsehair and nest building in May. In the south, Slippery Ford, Leeshaw Reservoir and Soil Hill held breeding pairs.

Post-breeding flocks of up to 100 appeared at Warley Moor Reservoir and near Hewenden in August, and there were records of smaller feeding parties around Queensbury in September. An aggregate total of 157 at Oxenhope, over 19 days of observations in autumn, completed the picture. !63 TWITE Carduelis flavirostris Very uncommon and local migrant.

Relatively speaking, it was a much better year after recent disasters. Seven records produced 20 birds almost all from the south of the area. Soil Hill had three on 1st July (CB), and two on a couple of days in August (DB), and a single on 23rd September and three on 12th October flew over Oxenhope Watchpoint (DB, HC, RP). Less expected was a party of eight at Redcar Tarn on 20th December (RP). The north’s sole contribution was a single at Kex Gill on 13th November (WNS).

Birders have been encouraged to spread nyjer seeds at Leeshaw Reservoir, Soil Hill and at Warley Moor Reservoir, where the species is most likely to feed.

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

Of the 76 reports, 40% were concerned with autumn migration and 11 mentioned birds visiting gardens. A mixed flock of 30 also containing Siskins was at Norwood Edge in March, but all the other notable gatherings were in early autumn. A flock of 20 at Timble Ings on 30th September and a dozen at the north end of Fewston Reservoir a few days later, were the only double-figure counts of note.

There were no reports of breeding but persistent sightings during May, particularly on Harden Moor and to a lesser extent, Leeshaw Reservoir and Low Snowden, indicated that such activity might have taken place

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

A very poor year with just two reports, both from Timble Ings. There were four birds in the plantation on 4th April and a couple of others were noted on 19th September (WNS).

BULLFINCH Pyrrhula pyrrhula Resident breeder.

Three winter flocks of between five and eight were reported at St. Ives, Haworth and Ogden Reservoir in January and February, and at the end of the year at Harden Moor, Caldene Fields and Denton Moor. Pairs and singles were reported from woodlands and hedgerows, but the main !64 focus was on gardens, where six were attracted to feeders in Riddlesden in February. Juveniles with adults were also reported here in May and at Byron Mews in Bingley, where a family, regularly seen in August, were joined by others at the end of the month. Five juveniles visited feeders at the Riddlesden garden in August and there were reports of other young birds in Ilkley gardens and at Stockbridge.

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

The first two records were of females, one of which was at Warley Moor Reservoir on 1st January and the other on Soil Hill from 7th to 16th March (BS). On 19th November, a male spent two days on Soil Hill (CB) and another was seen the following day on Keighley Moor (IH).

LAPLAND BUNTING Calcarius lapponicus Scarce passage migrant.

A bird was seen and photographed on 21st November, on Keighley Moor at almost exactly the same spot as the Snow Bunting, seen the previous day. The first record since 2011 (FD, per IH).

YELLOWHAMMER Emberiza citrinella Uncommon resident breeder.

After the first-ever blank year in 2014, a singing male was seen at Lindley Green above Lindley Wood Reservoir on 24th June (WNS).

REED BUNTING Emberiza schoeniclus Resident breeder/passage visitor.

During winter, birds regularly visited feeders at Stockbridge and up to 11 were seen at Dowley Gap Sewage Works in late February. Pairs began to return to their moorland breeding areas in the middle of March and four were seen on their territory at Glovershaw on 13th April. On 4th June, nine males were singing from bracken on the slopes of Pennythorn Hill, Baildon and seven others were similarly engaged along Shipley Glen Road. Other potential breeding pairs were reported at Harden Moor, Fly Flatts, Bradup, Heights Lane and Otley Wetland. At Yeadon Tarn, Keighley Moor, Menston and Knotford Nook, adults were seen taking food to nests. In August, family parties were watched at Glovershaw and Keighley Moor Reservoir.

!65 Escaped or Released Species

BAR-HEADED GOOSE Anser indicus A single was at Leeshaw Reservoir on 12th June.

MUSCOVY DUCK Cairina moschata In spring, up to five were regularly seen at Redcar Tarn; this figure rose to seven in November following successful breeding. Earlier in the year two birds were at Leeshaw Reservoir and one at Stockbridge.

WOOD DUCK Aix sponsa This escapee was reported throughout the year along the canal between Bingley and Saltaire. What may have been a different bird accompanied Greylag Geese at Silsden Reservoir in early May.

Contributors List 2015 The initials shown below are those which appear in the Report.

John Armstrong (JA) Joy Leach (JL) Ken Bailey Stephen Lilley (SL) David Barker (DCB) Richard Lobley (RL) Mike Bloomfield Phil Matthews (PM) Daniel Branch (DB) Jon Middleton (JM) Jamie Brass (JB) Keith Moir (KM) John Brooks Roger Nelson (RN) Alan Burkey (AB) Stephen Parkes (SP) Richard Butler (RB) Derek & Brenda Parkin (PD&JBP) Calderdale Birds (CB) Damian Pearson Roy Clarke (RC) Casper Pottle (CP) Howard Creber (HC) John Preshaw (JP) Dave Curran Martyn Priestley (MP) Peter Curran (PC) Nigel & Daniel Priestley (N&DP) Mark Doveston (MD) Rod Proctor (RP) Fred Drake (FD) Shaun Radcliffe (SR) Penny French (PF) Margaret & Peter Riley (M&PR) Tony Gough Alan Robinson Ian Hargreaves (IH) Pete Roe (PRo) Colin Harrison (CoH) Ian Skayman (IS) Anne Heeley Martin Stone (MS) Peter Hughes Brian Sumner (BS) Andy Jowett (AJ) Nick Tonge (NT) Helen & David Kidman Brian Vickers (BV) Chris King (CJK) Wharfedale Naturalists’ Soc. Paul King (PK) (WNS) Theo Kuechel Roger Wilkinso !66 Bradford Ornithological Group Area

!67 Short-eared Owl Brian Sumner

Snipe Stephen Lilley

!68