Basingstoke Local Group Annual General Meeting

BBAASSIINNGGSSTTOOKKEE LLOOCCAALL GGRROOUUPP

APRIL 2017 NEWSLETTER

http://www.rspb.org.uk/groups/basingstoke

Contents:

 From The Group Leader

 Notices

 Annual General Meeting

 Big Garden Birdwatch

 What’s Happening?

 April’s Outdoor Meeting

 Evening Walks Programme

 May’s Outdoor Meeting

 March’s Outdoor Meeting

 Mad March ….. Moths!

 Sri Lanka: Kirinda Beach Resort & Yala NP

 Local Wildlife News

 Quiz ‘Page’

 And Finally!

Charity registered in England and Wales no. 207076 From The Group Leader

Welcome to April, the Newsletter and, we can but hope, the real spring!

With the lengthening days, further clement weather and multitude of Bank Holidays etc. in the offing you can but expect that there will be a great many birds and other wildlife reported, both locally and further afield, in the Newsletter – seemingly this having commenced already if this Newsletter is anything to go by! As always, this monthly hint at what’s happening in the world about us is entirely due to the contributions of those such as you, so, thank you and do please keep the sightings coming. They’re much appreciated and, I can but hope, I’m sure encourage others out in the field to make the most of that which we’re blessed with locally.

With regard to sightings this Newsletter carries further news from the 2017 Big Garden Birdwatch, which I hope that you enjoyed participating in. The highlighted results, both national and local, I’m sure will give you food for thought. Once again, if you’ve any views on these inclusions or the Birdwatch please do let us know. The part played by the membership annually in this is incredible – I wonder just how many observers have taken part, how many hours they’ve put in and how many birds they’ve seen in the 39, yes 39, years of the Birdwatch? A little something for you to ponder on as your gardens appear to empty as the residents become ever more heavily involved in their breeding activities.

The months of May and June are often the busiest for many birds, both resident and those freshly-arrived from the south, and it’s no different for many of those that find themselves attracted to their comings and goings. The first song of the Cuckoo and Nightingale, the first long-streamered Swallow moving overhead, the finding of an exquisite Long-tailed Tit nest, an unexpected Osprey* visiting a local ‘fishery’, the churring of a Nightjar or ‘tsikking’ of a roding Woodcock, Longparish here we come, an out-of-place pair of Bee-eater, the display flight of Little Ringed Plover over local gravel pits, drake Mandarin exposing themselves on a local pond, and so on; there’s just so much to look forward to in the coming weeks and months, and who knows just how much of it will we experience during the Evening Walks and Outdoor Meetings Programmes. There’s only one way to find out. So, I look forward to seeing you out on a trip or two, or more!

Finally, all the very best for the coming ‘holiday’, when I hope that you find the time to enjoy both the local wildlife and the opportunity to get-together with family and friends.

A Happy Easter to you and yours.

Peter E. Hutchins

* Been there, done it! Notices

New Mailing Address

Please be aware that due to the previous issues with the ‘normal’ mailing address a new one was created specifically for your enquiries, sightings, thoughts, gripes and groans and other input and anything else RSPB, wildlife-related or otherwise that you’d like to bring to the attention of the Group Leader / Committee.

This is [email protected] and is available now for your use.

The electronic versions of the February and March Newsletters have been forwarded from this mailing address so all those in receipt of these should now have the new mailing address to hand for future use. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Stamp Recycling

Please do remember that the Local Group continues to collect, sort and forward used stamps to the Society for conversion in to yet more conservation-minded monies.

The Local Group’s lucky enough to have Eileen Poulter continuing to do this on its’ behalf, so do please keep her busy!

A convenient mnemonic...

Remember Stamps Post to Bedfordshire

Butterfly Walks In Hampshire And The Isle of Wight

Butterfly Conservation Saving butterflies, moths and our environment

A new book detailing 25 walks about the county and island where you’re most likely to bump in to these other airborne beauties.

You can inspect some sample pages from the book here ...

The Press Release about the book is available here ...

To order your copy send a cheque for £7.25 (£6.00 for the guide and £1.25 for postage and packing) made payable to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Branch Butterfly Conservation, together with your name and postal address to: Kevin Freeborn, c/o Butterfly Conservation, Unit 2, Bull Pens, Manor Farm, Itchen Stoke, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0QT

Copies will also be available for purchase (cash only) from Jayne Chapman on the Wednesday Wanders, and Ashley Whitlock on the branch fieldtrips where he is the walk leader.

Or to buy a copy online click here ...

To report any inaccuracies in the book please email here.

Brian’s Bees

The honey that has been on sale at Indoor Meetings is still available! In three varieties! Thank you to all those that purchased this locally sourced product, and to all those that do you in the future! Please do remember when considering sourcing honey in the future that this is both locally produced, some of you may even know the bees, and that a donation to the Group is made on each purchase!

Local Group Website

The Local Group website continues to be worked upon by our trusted band of computer- literates, well Tim. Carr, so if you haven't been to the site recently, why not take a look and tell us what you think. Any thoughts on what we should, or should not, include within the site will always be appreciated, this then helping to make the site more relevant to current group members, and helping to get across the right message to potential members.

Link: http://www.rspb.org.uk/groups/basingstoke/

Newsletter Mailings

Do we have your email address? If not, please do pass it on so that the Group can communicate with you in a more environmentally sensitive manner! The monthly Newsletter being an example of this, saving resources, money and time by being mailed to you, rather than hard copies being created and perhaps only sitting partially read until the next one appears. With regard to this, it’s hoped, seemingly never-endingly, that the lack of hard copy will be resolved in the future!

Bird Food

We are happy to supply any bird food to you at any time, just call on 01256 – 770831, 07895 – 388378 or mail us on [email protected] and we will arrange delivery to you. If you have any requirements that are not listed, please do let us know and we will ensure that they are available when you, or your birds, need them.

The below are examples of just a few of the items that we can supply. Please do enquire after anything else and we will provide you with a cost, time of delivery etc. As both of us are currently working in / about Basingstoke delivery can be expected to be completed within a day of an order being received – can you get that service anywhere else? Prices vary according to the seasonality of the foods, where we are able to source them from, and so on:

Wild Bird Mix – Peanuts – Black Sunflowers – Sunflower Hearts – Niger – Fat Squares – Fat Pecker Balls – Birdboxes – Feeders – Wildfowl Food – Bat Boxes – Mealworms – Suet Pellets – Hedgehog Feeders.

A variety of items will be available at most Indoor Meetings but if there is something ‘missing’ that you want, please do let us know.

Peter & Alison

Annual General Meeting

THE ROYAL SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF BIRDS

BASINGSTOKE LOCAL GROUP ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The thirty-eighth Annual General Meeting of the Basingstoke Local Group of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds will take place on Wednesday 17th May 2017 at The Barn, Church Cottage, Church Street, Basingstoke at 7.45pm.

AGENDA

1. Chairman’s Introduction

2. Apologies for Absence

3. Minutes of the thirty-seventh Annual General Meeting

4. Matters Arising

5. Chairman’s Report

6. Treasurer’s Report

7. Appropriation of Surplus

8. Elections

9. Any Other Business

Nominations for the Committee, together with the names of the proposer and seconder, should be given to the Secretary by Sunday 30th April 2017.

Geoff Sharp Secretary

Big Garden Birdwatch Produces Large Numbers Of Winter Visitors

Close to half a million people joined in the world's largest garden wildlife survey, counting more than eight million birds during the 38th RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

The event held over the last weekend in January revealed an explosion in the number of recorded sightings of Waxwings. These attractive-looking birds appear in numbers in British gardens in winter once every seven years or so, when the berry crop fails in their native Scandinavia. This is known as an 'irruption', and results showed that Waxwings were seen in around 11 times more gardens in 2017 compared to the last couple of years, with sightings as far west as Wales and Northern Ireland.

Weather conditions leading up to the event meant that this year British gardens were treated to a range of different visitors. Along with Waxwings, there was also a large jump in the number of visits from other migrant birds such as Redwing, Fieldfare and Brambling, as the sub-zero temperatures on the continent forced them to go in search of milder conditions.

Waxwings were seen in 11 times more gardens in 2017 than in the past two years

Gary Woodburn

RSPB Conservation Scientist Dr Daniel Hayhow said: "The sight of a Robin or Blackbird perched on the garden fence is often one of the first experiences we have with nature. So to have over half-a-million people taking part and counting a bumper eight million birds across one weekend is amazing. Using the information from the weekend we'll be able to create a snapshot of how our garden birds are doing. In the lead up to the Birdwatch there was some speculation as to whether we could see a 'Waxwing winter' and the results prove that to be the case. Flocks of these striking-looking birds arrived in the UK along the North Sea coast and will have moved across the country in search of food, favouring gardens where they can feast on berries. With it only happening once every seven or eight years, it will have been a treat for the lucky people who managed to catch a glimpse of one."

There was good news for Robins, with the average number seen visiting gardens at its highest level since 1986, helping it climb two places to number seven, the species' joint highest-ever position in the Big Garden Birdwatch rankings. Blackbird was another climber, moving to number three and becoming the UK's most widespread garden bird after being spotted in more than 93 per cent of British gardens.

It wasn't a great year for Coal Tits, with the species down around 14 per cent

Jeff Lack

The survey also highlighted a decline in the recorded sightings of Blue (down 11 per cent), Great (down 10 per cent) and Coal Tits (down 14 per cent) on last year's figures. Dr Hayhow explained: "Numbers of small-bodied birds such as Blue ... and Great Tits are susceptible to changes in weather throughout the year, and scientists believe that the prolonged wet weather during the 2016 breeding season led to fewer younger birds surviving than usual, meaning there are fewer to be seen in gardens."

This year's results also pointed to the positive effects that wildlife-friendly gardens are having on bird behaviour. Recorded sightings increased for 16 of the top 20 Big Garden Birdwatch birds between 2016 and 2017, showing how gardens are becoming an invaluable resource for our most common British garden birds.

Claire Thomas, RSPB Wildlife Advisor, said: "This year was another incredible year for the Big Garden Birdwatch, with our favourite garden birds like Starlings, Robins and Goldfinches, joined in the gardens up and down the country by more unusual visitors. Our gardens can become an invaluable resource for birds — throughout the year birds need food, water and a safe place to shelter. If we all provide these things in our outdoor spaces it will be a huge help to our garden birds, perhaps even playing a role in reversing some declines."

The nation's schoolchildren noticed a similar pattern when taking part in the RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch. The UK-wide survey of birds in schools saw over 73,000 school children spend an hour in nature counting birds. Blackbird remained the most common playground visitor for the ninth year in succession, with over 88 per cent schools spotting at least one. The top three was rounded off by Starling and Woodpigeon.

Big Garden Birdwatch and Big Schools' Birdwatch are aimed at tackling the crisis facing Britain’s threatened wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a home for wildlife in their gardens and outdoor spaces, whether it's putting up a nestbox for birds, creating a pond for frogs or building a hibernation box for Hedgehogs. For more information about the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch results visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

Big Garden Birdwatch Results For Hampshire

Robins, Starlings and Blackbirds joined by more unusual visitors

UK gardens have seen a boom in the number of visits from unusual migrant birds such as Waxwings Number of Robins seen visiting gardens at its highest level for more than 20 years In excess of 497,000 people took part in the 2017 Birdwatch counting over 8 million birds

Hampshire residents rallied to the call for participants with 13% more people taking part in the survey this year compared with 2007.

The event held over the last weekend in January revealed an explosion in the number of recorded sightings of Waxwings. These attractive looking birds flock to UK gardens in winter once every 7-8 years when the berry crop fails in their native Scandinavia. Known as an ‘irruption’, results showed that Waxwings were seen in around 19 times more gardens in the south east in 2017 compared with previous years.

Weather conditions leading up to the Birdwatch meant that this year UK gardens were treated to a range of different visitors. Along with Waxwings, there was also a large jump in the number of visits from other migrant birds, such as Redwing and Fieldfare, as the sub-zero temperatures on the continent forced them to go in search of milder conditions. The south east saw numbers of Redwing triple while our gardens saw a five-fold increase in Fieldfare sightings.

Redwing Turdus iliacus

House Sparrow, Starling and Woodpigeons are the top three most common birds in Hampshire gardens. Starlings are up nearly a third on numbers recorded ten years ago and struggling sparrows, having endured a national slump, now appear to be stabilising in Hampshire with a 2% population increase since 2007.

The county’s Blue Tits and Great Tits saw their numbers drop 15% and 2% respectively compared with last year. Both species are susceptible to changes in weather throughout the year, and scientists believe that the prolonged wet weather during the 2016 breeding season led to fewer younger birds surviving than usual, meaning there were fewer to be seen in gardens.

This year’s results also pointed to the positive effects that wildlife friendly gardens are having on bird behaviours. Recorded sightings increased for twelve of the county’s top 20 Big Garden Birdwatch birds between 2016 and 2007 showing how gardens are becoming an invaluable resource for our most common British garden birds.

RSPB Officer Tim Webb said: “Gardens are an increasingly valuable resource for birds. They need food, water and shelter throughout the year and if we all provide these things in our outdoor spaces it will be a huge help to our garden birds, perhaps even playing a role in reversing some declines. We’re increasingly seeing rural birds in gardens and urban settings such as Goldfinches. Our theory is that this behaviour change is because they are finding it easier to find food and shelter in gardens.”

The nation’s school children noticed a similar pattern when taking part in the RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch. The UK-wide survey of birds in schools saw over 73,000 school children spend an hour in nature counting birds. Blackbird remained the most common playground visitor for the ninth year in succession with over 88% schools spotting at least one. The top three was rounded off by Starling and Woodpigeon.

Starling Sturnus vulgaris

Big Garden Birdwatch and Big Schools’ Birdwatch are a part of the RSPB Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the house crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their gardens out outdoor spaces; whether it’s putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs or building a home for Hedgehogs.

Hampshire’s top ten most common garden birds:

What’s Happening?

A few of the forthcoming local events that will hopefully help keep you entertained as the gays lengthen and the weather continues to improve, hopefully!

Alton Natural History Society http://altonnaturalhistory.webnode.com/

Burkham For Birds

Whitethroat

Date 29th April

Time 10:00am

A bird-oriented walk led by Ted. Raynor about the Woodland Trust site.

Join John Clark for a guided walk of 4 miles in the Test Valley around Longparish to see spring birds and other wildlife. Bring a snack for a coffee stop.

Meet in the Woodland Trust car park off the minor road, west of the A339.

Grid reference SU 659 424

Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Wildlife Trust http://www.hwt.org.uk/

Bird Walk Around Longparish

Blue Tit

David Purslow

Date 23rd April

Time 10:00am to 2:00pm

Spring walk with John Clark for birds and other wildlife in the Test Valley.

Join John Clark for a guided walk of 4 miles in the Test Valley around Longparish to see spring birds and other wildlife. Bring a snack for a coffee stop.

Meet in the village car park near the church (opposite the village hall), Longparish, Hampshire, SP11 6PA

Grid reference SU 425 439

Walk In Micheldever Woods To See Bluebells.

Bluebells

Alex Cruickshank

Date 26th April

Time 10:00am to 12:00pm

Walk in Micheldever Woods to see Bluebells.

Micheldever Woods car park off A33, Micheldever Woods, Hampshire

Grid reference SU 530363

Go Batty In Winchester

Pipistrelle Bat

RSWT

Date 26th April

Time 8:00pm to 10:00pm

Evening walk to see bats along the river in Winchester. Booking essential.

Following our recent talk, join Nik Knight, Chairman of the Hampshire Bat Group, for an evening bat walk to see the bats along the river in Winchester. Bring a torch and wear warm clothes. Numbers are limited so booking is essential.

Meet in the car park in Garnier Road, where it is crossed by the Itchen Navigation. , Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9PA

Grid reference SU 484 280

Pond & Stream Dipping For Surveying

Pond and stream dipping course for adults

Date 28th April

Time 9:30am to 12:30pm

You’re never too old to enjoy pond dipping and learn all about the fascinating wildlife species that live in natural water bodies and surveying techniques for ponds and streams. Water is teaming with life so you are sure to find lots of interesting creatures on the day. On the Pond and stream dipping course for adults you will learn: How to use a key to identify the creatures you will find the techniques of safe pond and stream dipping How to compare the pond and stream environments

Susan is a certified riverfly tutor and is on hand for questions and discussion.

Why should the kids have all the fun? Come along and have a go.

This is a fun but structured course which includes:

 Kick Sampling  River Fly Sampling  Surveying Techniques  Using Identification Keys

Is this course for me? This is an ideal course for beginners to have a go at pond and stream dipping and learn about the mysterious creatures you will find.

When and where?

Friday 28th April 2017 – 9.30am to 12.30pm

Please arrive 10 minutes before the course start.

Winnall Moors, Winchester

Meet at the Durngate entrance to Winnall Moors, SO23 8DX opposite the Willow Tree pub OS grid reference SU 486 297.

Parking is available in the Durngate car park, this is a pay and display car park so please bring change for the parking meters.

What do I need to bring?

 Appropriate warm and waterproof clothing for the weather on the day  Clean wellies  Packed lunch or snack and drinks  If driving please bring change for parking meters

Tutor

Susan Simmonds

Susan has a lifelong passion for wildlife and graduated in Environmental Science, she has worked and volunteered in the conservation sector for over 15 years. Susan is a part-time lecturer at Sparsholt College on the Ecology and Conservation Management degree. Susan has a Certificate to teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) and enjoys teaching her skills through courses like plant species identification and mammal tracks and signs to others. She has a desire to make a difference and to play a part in conserving our natural world and believes that she can do that through further study and ultimately through lecturing and research. She loves species identification and regularly teaches wildflower identification; water vole survey techniques and more recently river fly surveying.

Susan has worked closely with a local primary school to assist them in using their outdoor environment. As the chairperson for the school’s Woodland Committee she has written a management plan for the site and oversees its management.

Book Now!

Winnall Moors, Hampshire

Grid reference SU 490 306 Basingstoke Wildlife Watch

Ding Dong Bluebells In The Woods

Wildlife Watch In Action

Date 29th April

Time 2:00am to 4:00pm

Fun wildlife-themed and outdoor activities for children aged 5-15 years

Please note, under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. All sessions will be held outdoors, whatever the weather, so wrap up warm and don’t forget your wellies!

Usually last Saturday each month 2-4pm, unless stated otherwise (locations vary around Basingstoke – please call for directions)

Locations around Basingstoke, please call for directions

Dawn Chorus walk

Chiffchaff

David Kilbey

Date 30th April

Time 6:30am to 8:00am

Listening out for the dawn chorus at Fishlake Meadows.

Join our Group Chairman Andy Lester for an early morning Chorus at Fishlake Meadows, followed by the option of a breakfast at Romsey World of Water.

Booking is essential as numbers are limited. Please let us know if you wish to attend breakfast so that numbers can be managed.

Car park, Romsey World of Water, Greatbridge Road. Sturdy footwear advised. People with limited mobility please contact organiser in advance, Romsey, Hampshire,, SO51 0HB

Woodlands In Spring

Woodlands in spring course

Date 5th May

Time 9:30am to 12:30pm

Woodlands come alive in spring and are rich and diverse habitats for wildlife. On our Woodlands in spring course you will find out about the history and management of ancient woodland and look at some of the species, including carpets of Hampshire’s famous bluebells, associated with this special habitat

In relaxed and interesting morning of discussions, observations and practising wildlife identification using FSC guides you will learn basic skills in:

 Tree identification  Wildflower/ancient woodland indicator identification

 Wildlife identification

You will also have an introduction to woodland management and woodland ecology overview.

At the end of the morning you will have gained knowledge to identify common species of plants and animals in woodlands and enrich your spring woodland walks.

On our Woodland in spring course you will walk approximately 3 miles on public footpaths alongside the beautiful Harewood Forest.

Is this course for me? This course is suitable for you if you are interested in exploring Hampshire’s woodlands and you would like to understand basic woodland wildlife species and ecology.

When and where? Friday 5th May 2017 - 9.30am to 12.30pm Please arrive 10 minutes before the course is due to start

We will be meeting at Wherwell village playing fields car park, Longparish Road, Wherwell, SP11 7JP which has free parking you can use.

What do I need to bring?

 Appropriate clothing for walking outside for the weather on the day  Comfortable and sturdy walking boots,  Binoculars may be useful if you have them  Refreshments

Tutor Susan Simmonds – Assistant Education Officer

Susan has a lifelong passion for wildlife and graduated in Environmental Science, she has worked and volunteered in the conservation sector for over 15 years. Susan has previously worked as a sessional lecturer on the BTEC National Diploma course in Countryside Management and currently covers a number of degree sessions at Sparsholt College. Susan has a Certificate to teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) and enjoys teaching her skills through courses like plant species identification and mammal tracks and signs to others. She has a desire to make a difference and to play a part in conserving our natural world and believes that she can do that through further study and ultimately through lecturing and research. She loves species identification and regularly teaches wildflower identification; water vole survey techniques and more recently river fly surveying. Susan has worked closely with a local primary school to assist them in using their outdoor environment. As the chairperson for the school’s Woodland Committee she has written a management plan for the site and oversees its management. You can hear Susan

several times a month in a slot on BBC Radio Wiltshire on Sunday lunchtimes, where she speaks about seasonal aspects of the countryside.

Book Now!

Wherwell village playing fields car park, Wherwell Village Playing Fields, Longparish Road, Wherwell, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 7JP

Grid reference SU397415

The Wildlife Of College Copse Farm

British White Cattle

Rachel Remnant

Date 7th May

Time 11:00am to 2:00pm

Guided walk around the Trust's College Copse Farm to see the farm burst into life with carpets of wildflowers, butterflies and birds.

College Copse Farm was purchased by HIWWT in 2013 and has wonderfully mixed habitats of woodlands, lakes and pasture. Join us for a guided walk around our farm to see the vast array of wildlife that is now thriving at this busy farm. We may also have the opportunity to see some of The Trusts herds of cows and sheep with their young. Entrance is opposite Tylney Hall Hotel (signed). Please drive no more than 10mph up the farm drive. Car share if possible, parking is available at the farm.

College Copse Farm, Rotherwick, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9AX

Water Vole Survey Techniques

Water Vole Survey Techniques Course

Date 12th May

Time 10:00am to 3:00pm

Learn about the ecology, the habitat and the techniques used in surveying water voles.

You will learn water vole surveying, health and safety and how to complete the survey forms before spending the rest of the session outdoors on Winnall Moors where you will experience a real water vole survey and put your new skills into practice.

The Water vole surveying techniques course will cover:

 An overview of water vole ecology.  An understanding of the threats to these species.  An understanding of and some practical experience in using the techniques involved in surveying for water voles.

In the afternoon you will take part in an actual water vole survey.

The Water vole surveying techniques course will require you to be able to walk and spend a fair amount of time bending down along an uneven river bank looking for water vole signs in our practical afternoon session.

Is this course for me? This course is designed for people who are interested in finding out more about water voles, their habitat, life history and ecology and for people who may want to volunteer on water vole surveys to find out more about techniques and methods used or find out more about ecology as a career.

When and where? Friday 12th May 2017 - 10am to 3pm

Please arrive 10 minutes before the course is due to start

Winnall Moors, Winchester Meet at the Trinity Centre, Winchester SO23 8DX opposite the Willow Tree pub OS grid reference SU 486 297. Parking is available in the Durngate car park, this is a pay and display car park.

What do I need to bring?

 Appropriate clothing  Wellington boots  A GPS if you have one may be useful  Packed lunch, drink or snacks

Tea, coffee & biscuits will be provided on the morning of the course.

Tutor Susan Simmonds – Assistant Education Officer

Book Now!

Trinity Centre, Winnall Moors, Winchester, SO23 8DX

Grid reference SU 490 306

Please note that all the events noted above may be filmed and photographed for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust's fundraising and publicity purposes. If you have any concerns, please speak to a member of staff.

Overton Biodiversity Society http://www.overton-biodiversity.org/

Dawn Chorus – Birds & Breakfast!

Date 23rd April

Time 6:00am

The now annual Dawn Chorus walk about Overton looking and listening for both resident and spring passage songsters, followed by a freshly-made hot breakfast, drinks and even more chatter!

Commencing from the Overton Community Centre, Winchester Street, Overton.

All are welcome to attend – booking however needed in advance to ensure that all are catered for, literally!

£3.50 for non-members, £3.00 for OBS members.

For further information please contact:

Ken or Jane on 01256 – 771121 or email [email protected]

Local Opportunities for Conservation Volunteering

Are you interested in your local environment? Do you have a passion for conservation and wildlife? If yes, try the following the site to check on what’s happening locally that you could become involved in.

http://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/2BEA9CA3-DD29-414A-AAE4- 0F8A916F61E4/0/Conservationworkparties.pdf

There are opportunities for you as an individual, a family or a social group to join the groups of volunteers already working in the following areas:

Black Dam Ponds and Crabtree Plantation Mill Field Local Nature Reserve Chineham Oakley Cliddesden Old Down, Kempshott Glebe Gardens, Victory Park and King Overton George Vth Playing Fields (Brookvale) Popley Kempshott South View

April’s Outdoor Meeting

Bolderwood: 23rd.

 For this outing please meet in the main car park for a 10:00 start (SU 242 086: OS Landranger map 195).

 For further details of the starting point, to offer or request a lift etc. please contact a Committee Member prior to the weekend of the outing.

The RAC Route Planner gives a distance of 46.41 miles between Basingstoke and the car park, the AA site 46.2; a travelling time of 53 and 52 minutes being quoted by these sites. These routes are via the M3 and M27, more direct routes being somewhat slower and therefore possibly taking longer than the noted times. As always, it’s best to leave ample time to reach the site for the start time, so please do bear this in mind when deciding on when to leave.

 This Outdoor Meeting to the centre of The New Forest National Park, the most recently such designated area, will take in both deciduous and coniferous woodland, the streams that run through them, the grassland that surrounds them and the heath that flanks them on the their more unused edges.

The walk commences at the main car park, where the first of the wood and grassland birds will come to the attention of the Group, along with all those other visitors using this much favoured area. The former should include a mix of tits, finches, thrushes and crows, many encouraged in to the area by the actions of those other visitors. Out on the grassland wagtails, thrushes and further finches may be feeding, possibly including the resident but often elusive Hawfinch.

Moving away from the car park and in to the woodlands the Holly flanking the tracks will be searched for Firecrest, an ever-increasing and more than welcome visitor to both the forest and county. As might be anticipated their dowdier cousins the Goldcrest can be expected; I only to keep the former from gracing the eyes of those present! The woodland tracks lead down to an observation platform where a ‘feral’ population of Fallow Deer can be seen.

The rougher grassland within the enclosure allows thrushes, finches and some of the commoner ‘garden’ species to forage in relative safety from the raptors that are hopefully to

be part of the day’s noted species, so it shouldn’t be just the deer that are to be watched here.

A pool nearby draws in many birds, again Firecrest being a regular visitor here. The ferns, mosses and other waterside plants attract invertebrates and thereby ensure a supply of the birds that take advantage of this, tits, crests, warblers and flycatchers amongst these, though some may yet to be arrive from their warmer wintering quarters.

Deeper in the woodland and away from the crowds more time will be spent looking and listening for both resident and summer visitors to the huge variety of trees. As noted earlier, some of the migrants may only just be arriving on their traditional breeding grounds, but we can hope for the likes of Wood Warbler and Redstart before the trees become so leafy as to hide such denizens of the woods.

If we’re not so lucky as to encounter these migrants the looking and listening will ensure that many other species will fall to us, all three woodpeckers are possible though, as might be anticipated, Lesser Spotted are far less likely than their larger, more vocal and frequently come upon cousins. However, time spent in the area prior to the meeting may well have helped located breeding birds – we can but hope! The coniferous areas covered may well hold mobile parties of Crossbill as well as more expected Siskin and Lesser Redpoll, perhaps these dropping to woodland pools to drink, the coniferous feeding guaranteeing a thirst!

The woodland watching will gradually take the Group out on to the heath, where the open skies will increase the raptors seen, as well as, all being well, adding such ulex-loving birds as Dartford Warbler and Stonechat. Meadow Pipit and Skylark will be in song whilst Tree Pipit may already be setting up territories in the more open clearing of the adjacent woodland – will we be lucky enough to come across Cuckoo, these areas often especially good for them?

Working back through the woodlands towards the meeting place the migrants not yet located will again be searched for, the scratchy song or soft contact call of Redstart conceivably to be added at this stage. The more open and scrubbier areas often play host to Mistle Thrush and can provide further feeding places for Hawfinch, so, even towards the end of the walk birds of note may still appear, as might other residents of the forest!

The walk will be completed on returning to the car park, but even here and on using the adjacent facilities further wildlife can be expected, if only Grey Squirrels!

Both a good number and variety of birds can be expected during this Outdoor Meeting, as can be many woodland and heathland plants and the wildlife that exists in harmony with them, butterflies, day-flying moths, the earliest of the dragon and damselflies and other invertebrates will be evident, weather permitting!

 Please be aware that the car park can become very busy on days of more clement weather. Also, the areas to be walked are on variable terrain and surfaces, including several areas of slightly steeper woodland paths.

 The walk will take us through to early afternoon when there will be a number of options for those attending – lunch, of course, go directly home, move off to other sites of interest or participate in a further walk about the area during the middle / latter part of the afternoon; all are welcome to join the latter.

More updated information on the site, the wildlife present and places to visit on the journey home, such as Acres Down, Irons Well Pond, Slufters Inclosure, Blackwater Arboretum and Alresford will be available closer to the day of the trip, and during the outing itself. If you have any queries, no matter what, please ensure that these are addressed as soon as is possible.

Evening Walks Programme

Please find below details of the Evening Walks Programme that will run throughout May and June.

MAP CONTACT DATE DAY START TIME SITE MEETING PLACE LEADER REFERENCE DETAILS Ellisfield (for the Bluebells) Ellisfield Memorial Village SU 639 459 Lydia 01256 - 2nd May Tuesday 19:00 Hall car park (RG25 2QR) Knight 334316 The Vyne NT, Watermeadows Morgaston Road parking SU 624 571 Simon 01256 - 10th May Wednesday 19:30 & Morgaston Wood areas (RG26 5EB) Yates 781964 The Mill Field LNR, Barton’s Basing House / Millstone SU 660 530 James 07775 - 16th May Tuesday 18:30 Mill & Cowdery’s Down PH car parks, Old Basing (RG24 8AE) Andrews 564257 Petty's Brook & The River Northern side of SU 667 522 Peter E. 07895 - 24th May Wednesday 18:30 Loddon Whitmarsh Lane, Chineham (RG24 8LQ) Hutchins 388378 Paices Wood Country Park The Park’s car park, off the SU 587 639 Stewart 07895 - 31st May Wednesday 18:30 A340 north of Tadley (RG7 4PG) Woolley 388378 Longparish The car park next to The SU 445 448 Geoff. 01256 - 7th June Wednesday 18:30 Test, N of Larkwhistle Farm (SP11 6QJ) Sharp 470295 Crookham Common Old Thornford Road, SU 523 645 Richard 07884 - 14th June Wednesday 18:30 Crookham Common (RG19 8EU) Gilham 044544 The Basingstoke Canal & The Wharf car park, at the SU 747 517 Peter E. 07895 - 21st June Tuesday 18:30 Odiham Common north end of London Road (RG29 1AJ) Hutchins 388378 Woodgarston & Piccadilly Hill The lay-by on the northern SU5 87 548 Doug. 07786 - 28th June Wednesday 18:30 side of the A339 (RG26 5TD) Kelson 647784

Please note that the postcode displayed is the nearest available to the meeting place and at times may be a short distance from this - as always, if there are any issues with this, or anything else, please do contact the Leader in advance of the walk.

May’s Outdoor Meeting

Otmoor RSPB: 21st.

 For this outing please meet in the reserve car park for a 10:00 start (SP 570 126: OS Landranger map 164).

 For further details of the starting point, to offer or request a lift etc. please contact a Committee Member prior to the weekend of the outing.

The RAC Route Planner gives a distance of 49.92 miles between Basingstoke and the car park, the AA site 49.9; a travelling time of 71 minutes being quoted by both sites. These routes are via the A339 and A34, more direct routes being somewhat slower and therefore possibly taking longer than the noted times. As always, it’s best to leave ample time to reach the site for the start time, so please do bear this in mind when deciding on when to leave.

And just in case: From A34 take B4027 to Islip. Through Islip, continue along B4027 towards Wheatley. After four miles turn left to Horton-cum-Studley. Turn left to Beckley. After one mile, road drops down short steep hill. Turn right before Abingdon Arms. Turn sharp left into Otmoor Lane. Follow road to end, about one mile, left through reserve entrance. Car park is on your right. From A40 travelling west: at Headington roundabout, turn right, taking exit sign posted Crematorium, Beckley, Horton-cum-Studley, Headington. After two miles, turn right at junction onto B4027 then immediately left, signposted to Horton-cum-Studley. Follow directions to Beckley as above. The reserve has no postcode, but OX3 9TD will take you into Otmoor Lane, and just follow this road to the reserve car park at the end. As car parking is limited, please can you can share wherever possible.

 The site to be visited this month is one of the more notable inland RSPB reserves in the south of Britain, consisting primarily of reedbeds, open grassland, some farmland and the hedgerows, scrub and copses that break up the ‘flat’ landscape.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus

The wetter areas of the reserve at this time of year play host to large numbers of reedbed denizens, Reed and Sedge Warbler being more than evident whilst wildfowl, waders and rails are just as plentiful, but perhaps less likely to be seen or heard as the ‘reed warblers’. Bittern regularly breed within the reserve and so views of these may be obtained as they move to and from their feeding and nesting areas, Grey Heron are also present in larger numbers and in recent years the likes of Purple Heron have even lingered during the spring!

There are several reedbed viewing screens and a number of other vantage points to look out over such habitats, ensuring a good range of birds and other wildlife are readily available.

The more open waters, especially with those with areas of shallower water, draw in waders such as Little Ringed Plover, Redshank and Snipe in to breed whilst the more farmland-like and distant waters hold Lapwing, both adults and the leggy young likely to be seen among the lengthier grass and stock, as might Yellow Wagtail.

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus

The beds and water-flanking vegetation provide shelter and food for many invertebrates and so in turn increase the avians about the reserve; Hobby may be taking advantage of the plentiful dragon and damselflies, Cuckoo the furrier caterpillars and warblers, pipits and flycatchers the aerial plankton that can cloud the air on more clement days. Grasshopper Warbler is one of the birds many associate the reserve with and these have even be heard from the car park on past visits! The nearby scrub affords them shelter and it may be some time before they’re tracked down, though the wait / search will certainly be worthwhile.

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Steve Round

Another much-anticipated bird that frequents the reserve during the summer is the seemingly ever-decreasing Turtle Dove; again these can even be heard / seen from the car park so not too far in to the walk there should be evidence of these being present. For some this may well be the only opportunity to catch up with this iconic bird during the year, so take it and make the most of both it and all that the reserve has to offer; you won’t be disappointed!

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur One of the summering specialties of the reserve

The hedgerows and low-lying scrub that crisscross the reserve encourage warblers such as Whitethroat to linger amongst the resident Yellowhammer and Reed Bunting, the adjacent ditches often providing plentiful food in the form of the aforementioned odonata, aphids and the reed-grazing larvae of moths. We’re sure to see some of these on investigation, as well as some of the butterfly nectaring about the hedgerows, bramble flowers being plentiful and adding both colour and food sources to the outer limits of these. Hairstreaks, browns, whites, blues, skippers and the vanessids are all possible, as well as some striking day-flying moths such as the tigers and china-marks.

The plentiful sources of food supplied by the reserve ensure a range of raptors are to be seen on a daily basis, particularly if the weather remains clement. The reedbeds play host to Marsh Harrier and Hobby drift overhead, looking for less than wary prey items below them.

Hobby Falco subbuteo Another summer visitant that makes the most of the increased fauna on site, as will we

Red Kite, Buzzard, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk are all likely, in varying numbers, and the attentions of these will help to draw more species in to the air as they move over – pipits, wagtails, buntings and warblers perhaps among those to be disturbed, as might be the raptors and herons that have made the reeds their summering home.

For those not totally bird-oriented the timing of the visit will allow them time to relax amongst the on-the-wing lepidoptera, the ever-increasing blooms of arable and water-borne plants and the huge array of invertebrates and the occasional amphibian and reptile as those about them fill their notebooks!

Downy Emerald Cordulia aenea Otmoor now probably the best site in Oxfordshire for odonota, including this hairy beast!

 Please be aware that there are no facilities on site, the nearest being in the village of Beckley.

 The walk will take us through to early afternoon when there will be a number of options for those attending – lunch, of course, on site or in Beckley, go directly home, move off to other sites of interest or participate in a further walk about the area during the middle / latter part of the afternoon; all are more than welcome to join the latter.

More updated information on the site, the wildlife present and places to visit on the journey home, such as Farmoor Reservoir, Dinton Pastures CP, The Ridgeway, Lower Farm GP, Thatcham NDC and Greenham / Crookham Commons will be available closer to the day of the trip, and during the outing itself. If you have any queries, no matter what, please ensure that these are addressed as soon as is possible.

For the latest news from the reserve please try: http://otmoorbirding.blogspot.co.uk/

March’s Outdoor Meeting

Sandy Point / Black Point: 19th.

Six eventually gathered by the northern extremities of the Sandy Point Nature Reserve for the March Outdoor meeting, on a morning with weather more befitting an autumnal day; mild with strengthening south-westerlies, grey clouded skies and more than hinting at rain.

The proximity to the reserve ensured that birds were immediately noted, Long-tailed Tit being heard among the dense Hawthorn growth flanking the adjacent residential gardens, where House Sparrow were also heard, Woodpigeon moving about both areas but more obvious about the latter with no vegetation to hide them there.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Doug. Kelson

Walking towards Sandy Point Blackbird, Magpie, Greenfinch and Blue Tit were heard from the reserve whilst the first of the migrants, over-wintering Dark-bellied Brent, moved over in a small skein. A singing Chiffchaff lifted the mood a little, though eventually becoming the first of just two noted during the meeting, and the first of just two ‘proper’ spring migrants recorded. Shortly after a Meadow Pipit moved north, the first of many noted heading in the same direction – just where were they coming from, and going?

A pair of Chaffinch moved from tree to tree in the reserve where a Wren was in territorial mode, belting out its song, a further flock flew over, this however of Racing Pigeon!

Following the footpath through the reserve Greenfinch were very evident, calling and singing as they also moved from tree to tree, lingering atop the more distinct skeletal perches; a pleasing number compared with many more local sites, as commented upon by one of those present.

Greenfinch Chloris chloris Doug. Kelson

Out on the shoreline overlooking Chichester Harbour the wind became ever stronger, though not seemingly affecting a female Harbour Seal that lingered offshore; an increasingly frequent visitor to Hampshire shores but always an unexpected bonus on any coastal trip. Looking further afield several Gannet were picked up as near-silhouettes towards the horizon, gulls were seen coming across the channel from East Head and the Witterings and a Great Crested Grebe flew in, another bobbing up-and-down in the choppy water.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Doug. Kelson

A Sandwich Tern, another over-wintering bird rather than recently arrived, was seen offshore, but only by one lucky observer.

Walking northwards, towards Black Point, a Linnet and further Meadow Pipit moved over, Oystercatcher being seen out on one of the disappearing sandbars in the harbour. The latter also held large numbers of the yachting fraternity, these and their increased action perhaps helping to explain the lack of waders along the shore and duck and other water-based birds out on the deeper waters.

Redshank Tringa totanus Doug. Kelson

Curlew Numenius arquata Doug. Kelson

The uncovered creeks inland of the points held single Little Egret, Curlew and Redshank and a family party of Dark-bellied Brent, House Sparrow being in the scrubby patches between here and the track to the sailing club, plus heard further afield in the gardens of the estate where Starling flew to-and-fro.

Dark-bellied Brent Branta bernicla Doug. Kelson

To the north, a breeding-plumaged Cormorant flew off towards Northney, a ghostlier Mute Swan heading the same way as the group walked towards the Black Point wader roost.

Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Doug. Kelson

Passing the dunes and fossil-holding rocks on the western side of the sailing club compound a Shelduck was seen dabbling about the wetter mud, shortly followed by a grebe, then two, very distantly diving. Further checking confirmed these as Little, their seemingly initial odd appearance presumably due to the need to stretch in to the wind as they tried to ensure that they were not taken away by the tidal waters.

There were no waders at the point, in fact no birds at all! However, there were many yachts and their crews to watch, if you felt so inclined, and the Meadow Pipit continued to ‘sip, sip’ as they moved north.

“I was intrigued by this layering in a mini-sand-dune found when we were walking around the point, beyond the life-boat station. The bands of colour are wind-sorted, rather than by water” Doug. Kelson

Returning towards Sandy Point the waters of Chichester Harbour were ever choppier and even quieter, even the seal being unable to be relocated.

Walking the southern shore / edge of the reserve added further Greenfinch, an unseen yaffling Green Woodpecker and small numbers of gull passing offshore, the more distant birds now being hidden by a haze that obscured even the larger objects out to sea.

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Doug. Kelson The waves behind this bird showing how the south-westerlies were disturbing the water, and our meeting

On the reserve a pair of Magpie was active, more Woodpigeon were flighting over the more distant trees whilst the Gorse, heath and other scrubbier vegetation appeared to be emptied of avifauna – a Rabbit was however seen, by just one! A hint of rain became nothing more, thankfully, before the group headed back in to the relative shelter of the footpath through the reserve once more. This area was now lit by what sun the group was lucky enough to encounter, encouraging the first butterfly of the outing to sun themselves out on the still brown and gone-over Bracken; single Peacock and Comma.

The final walk along the northern edge of the reserve had the group staring in to the ‘ditch’ once more, this channel now holding a Moorhen, which had been heard earlier. More surprising was the appearance of two Little Egret, one in pursuit of the other. Both were in

their breeding finery and gave excellent views as they loitered, the pursued out on the grass, the pursuer remaining in the ‘ditch’.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Doug. Kelson “This was the Little Egret which was chased out of the ditch. Notice the soggy, muddy primaries and plumes. I wonder if it had been in a more physical encounter with the other egret. Traces of the muck can still be seen but I think this "rousing" was to shake the stuff out.”

So, a disappointing day of weather, a lack of the anticipated migrants and harbour / sea- related birds that might have made the outing a little more notable, at least regarding avifauna. However, the half-a-dozen attending more than made up for this with what was present and each other’s company, and a total of 73 Meadow Pipit did move north!

The ‘list’:

Blackbird Black-headed Gull Blue Tit Buzzard – a bird seen distantly over the mainland treeline. Carrion Crow Chaffinch Chiffchaff – two in song. Collared Dove Cormorant Curlew Dark-bellied Brent Dunnock Gannet – several seen offshore. Goldcrest Goldfinch Great Black-backed Gull Great Crested Grebe – two off Sandy Point. Great Tit Green Woodpecker Greenfinch Herring Gull House Sparrow Linnet Little Egret – one in the creeks west of Black Point with two later in the drainage channel at Sandy Point NR. Little Grebe – two to the north of Black Point. Long-tailed Tit Magpie Meadow Pipit – 73 noted moving north between 10:18 and 12:29. Mistle Thrush Moorhen Mute Swan

Oystercatcher Pheasant Pied Wagtail Racing Pigeon Redshank Robin Sandwich Tern – one off Sandy Point. Shelduck – a singleton north of Black Point. Starling Woodpigeon Wren

Harbour Seal – a female seen several times in Chichester Harbour. Rabbit – one on the Sandy Point NR.

Comma Peacock

Germander Speedwell Gorse Ivy-leaved Speedwell

And from those that wandered elsewhere both before and after the Outdoor Meeting:

Pre-

Black-necked Grebe – at least one seen distantly in Langstone Harbour, off the North Hayling LNR. Chiffchaff – two at North Hayling LNR. Little Egret – two at North Hayling LNR. Mediterranean Gull – 130+ at North Hayling LNR.

Post-

Chiffchaff – two at Drayton Farm, two at Avington Park Lake, singles in song at both sites, with several more at Sidlesham. Fieldfare – 28 at Drayton Farm, one at Swarraton. Green Sandpiper – one at Drayton Farm. Little Egret – singles being seen at Droxford, Lea Farm Shop Cress Beds, Pinglestone Cress Beds, Drayton Farm, Alresford Pond, Northington, Swarraton and Totford. Marsh Harrier – one over the fields north of Sidlesham Ferry Pool. Merlin – one over the fields north of Sidlesham Ferry Pool. Raven – one down to carrion on A272, just east of Cheesefoot Head. Red Kite – singles both south and north of Nutley. Shelduck – pairs at Alresford Pond and Sidlesham Ferry Pool with 113 in Pagham Harbour. Snipe – six at Avington Park Lake. Water Pipit – seven on Pinglestone Cress Beds.

Mad March ….. Moths!

Like birds moths are available to those who are interested from the very start of the New Year. However, things only really start to pick up as spring approaches, the light traps set up eventually drawing in a more pleasing number and variety of species.

Around Basingstoke there are several birders that have diversified and taken moths under their wing! This has led to a dramatic increase in the knowledge relating to the local populations in the past decade or so, as well some of those straying from birding becoming experts in their own right and now highly sought after to help resolve identification issues, participate in the workings of the county’s Butterfly Conservation groups, and so on. As well as these there a good number that have yet to reach such mothing heights, but nonetheless enjoy their new-found interest and contribute in many ways towards the information that’s continuously being gathered about the counties lepidoptera.

With this in mind, here are just a few images, all courtesy of a Basingstoke-based ‘moffer’, of that which you missed out on last month.

Torticodes alternella Acleris logiana

Small Quaker Orthosia cruda Common Quaker Orthosia cerasi

March Moth Alsophila aescularia Twin-spotted Quaker Anorthoa munda

Hebrew Character Orthosia gothica Early Grey Xylocampa areola

Oak Beauty Biston strataria

Beautiful Plume Common Plume Amblyptilia acanthadactyla Emmelina monodactyla

Double-striped Pug Gymnoscelis rufifasciata

All images courtesy of Dave. Levy

If you’d be interested in attending a public mothing session later in the year please do let us know, as there will be a number organised locally that are sure to bring home to you that not all moths are brown / white and inclined to visit the windscreens of your cars, as can be seen by that below; another that’s regularly on the wing during March!

Early Thorn Selenia dentaria Mike. Wall

For all the information you could possibly want about local moths and mothing please visit the following site: http://www.hantsmoths.org.uk/index.htm

Sri Lanka

Kirinda Beach Resort & Yala NP

By the time we got to the Kirinda Beach Resort, the dark had well and truly gathered. Fireflies drew squiggles in the night and the lights of the al fresco dining room were attracting moths, mantises and multitudes of creepies and crawlies for us to enjoy. Actually, it wasn't that bad, back in our room, at least 3 geckos chased the bugs up the walls and over the ceiling. We only saw the one cockroach and it and the Katydid which flew in were only around 5cm long, excluding those long, waving antennae. About the same size as the cockroach. The gecko looked very well fed, but, evidently, not on praying mantis. This “friendly” one was nearly the same size as the lizard.

Clockwise Cockroach sp.; Four-clawed Gecko; Praying Mantis sp.; Katydid sp.

Had we been blessed with more attractive companions, we might have enjoyed a very romantic dinner in an open-plan and open-fronted wood and bamboo dining room, with tropical breezes wafting the gentle slurring of the waves caressing the nearby beach to us. It called for a night-walk on the beach so, after grabbing our torches we walked on the sand.

It was a salutary thought that, a scant-few years before, this was one of the areas where the infamous tsunami rolled so destructively inland, to wreak deadly havoc. We had seen little evidence of that disaster, in our travels; we'd started too far to the west, then moved inland, to the mountains where, obviously, the wave did not reach. We had arrived at Kirinda too late in the day, to see much of the surrounding countryside but had noticed an occasional half-destroyed or half-built house. The years of tropical rains seemed to have washed the salt from the soil and rapid growth of vegetation had disguised much damage. People had returned and repaired and cultivated. I suppose, to one who had known the area prior to the disaster, there would be obvious signs of it, but not to us. There was also the fact that there had been a civil war to be considered. How had that affected this area? I believe most of the fighting took place in the north, relatively far from our situation, though.

As we approached the beach, Ghost Crabs skittered away from our feet. These pale, sand- coloured sprinters, with their periscope eyes, are scavengers of anything washed-up dead or moribund on the beach but are also deadly predators. They are the ones which regularly feature in wildlife films when they grab unfortunate hatchling turtles and devour them alive.

Although the walk was very pleasant, we found little apart from crabs alive on the beach, apart from a couple of roaming dogs; then I found a shell on the beach (I know, echoes of the famous Bob Newhart “Defusing a bomb” monologue). This shell was, thrillingly, occupied; by a Green Turtle. She was still using her rear feet to scoop sand from a hole and, as we cautiously approached, she began to drop damp, ping-pong ball-eggs into the hole. We took our photographs, by torch-light, rather than risk disturbance with camera flashes, and left her, still producing the next generation. Definitely up amongst our best wildlife experiences. Though I can boast of seeing a huge Leatherback Turtle, laying eggs on a Tobago beach; that was found by others and I was taken there, in a taxi, to join the small crowd watching it. We had this one to ourselves.

Ghost Crab Turtle by torch-light

The manager of the hotel, an ardent English conservationist, had told us, when we inquired about it, that there was “a slim chance” of seeing a turtle and was thrilled when we showed her our images and described where we had seen the beast. She said she would inform people, who would try to protect the eggs. My main worry was that those dogs might find the nest, first.

The next morning, we were up before day-break and threading our way through a herd of cattle over a wooden bridge just outside Yala National Park, where we were to spend the day. We were probably the first or almost the first vehicle to enter the park, that morning and, as we drove along rough tracks in an open-topped vehicle, we could hear the day-shift waking. Langurs barked at us from the bushes and, in all directions dark lumps on top of

tattered trees and bushes stirred and became animate as the rising light-levels revealed them to be Peafowl waking on their roosting perches and calling clamorous “wows” over the landscape. Prinias sang, doves called rhythmically, a Great Coucal chanted a deep, descending cadence and the shadowy mammals acquired solidity as the morning brightened. We saw our first Indian Spotted Deer, or Chital, a beautifully gracile relative of the Fallow Deer; dark mounds, in muddy puddles became alert and raised horned heads as the Wild Water Buffalo watched us; a bristly sounder of Wild Boar foraged about the margins of a shrunken, shallow pool. As the day warmed, we began to see occasional Land Monitor Lizards prowling the grasslands. The Land Monitors are very large lizards, sometimes approaching 2 metres in length. According to folk-lore, they are supposed to possess venom and a bite from one can be dangerous but scientists say they do not possess venom glands. That may be so, but similar things were said, until very recently, about Komodo Dragons (close relatives) which have since been found to have venom potent enough to kill Water Buffalo. Large Land Monitors will take anything from invertebrates, smaller reptiles and any animal they can catch and overcome and are not averse to carrion; in Yala that might include Elephants. The lizards use long, forked tongues for investigating everything for possible food. That included great heaps of animal dung, which I saw one digging into. Remember those battered-looking bushes? These dung heaps were where the branches had ended up, after passing through the guts of Asian Elephants which, at the moment, were proving very elusive for us, though ample “signs” were all around.

Clockwise: Our first “tusker”, a male Wild Boar; bull Wild Water Buffalo; Chital doe; Land Monitor Lizard

Far left; single Zebra Blue; rest are Common Gulls and the plain Lemon Emigrant

We noticed that the elephant dung was attractive to more than monitor lizards when we found this flutter of colour in the middle of the track.

Even small pools might not entirely benign sources of water as large Mugger Crocodiles heaved their bulks ashore to bask after keeping warm and active. This one, perhaps, wanting to do a little birdwatching.

Marsh Mugger and Blue-tailed Bee-eater at dawn

These are large crocodiles; though not reaching quite the bulk of Nile Crocodiles, they are occasionally man-eaters and habitually take large mammalian prey and, as we were to discover, later, other things as well.

The light began to reveal waking migrant Blue-tailed Bee-eaters (which might be residents, in just this small area of Sri Lanka), Little Bee-eaters and Chestnut-headed Bee-eaters (there was also the chance of seeing European Bee-eaters, but we saw none). The little Bee-eaters seemed more likely to be found perched low down, where they might sally for crawling as well as flying prey.

Little / Green Bee-eater Immature Blue-tailed Bee-eater

At times, we would see small flocks of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters, perched in the twigs, preening and socialising. Brown Shrikes were found waiting to be stimulated into action, when the chance came to tackle slightly more formidable prey-items than the bee-eaters and, like its close relative, the Red-backed Shrike, it might impale small birds, mammals or reptiles or large insects on thorns and twigs. Plenty of both those useful spikes about in the reserve, especially on the many mangled and damaged-looking bushes there were about. The elephants had done a good job.

Increased light-levels meant that we could appreciate the hearth-fire glow from the breasts of the Orange-breasted Green Pigeons, looking for fruit in the trees, nearby. In fact, birds were popping-up everywhere and we had our work cut out, trying to track down the utterers of what, to us, were unfamiliar calls and songs and find out what was making those branches shake or what just flitted between bushes.

In the still-dewy grass we found both long-legged Red-wattled and Yellow-wattled Lapwings and perky Jerdon's Bush Lark. The Lapwings, at least, would also find forage in the vicinity of animal dung, as would many birds. In an earlier episode, I wrote of the passing of elephants from Horton Plains. One can only speculate which birds and other animals are no longer found there or only rarely, now that elephants are not creating feeding opportunities and habitat by their activities.

Red-wattled Lapwing; Yellow-wattled Lapwing; Jerdon's Bushlark

In fact, there was so much more to report that it will have to wait until the next chapter.

If you want to hear, many of the species mentioned in this account, I recommend typing “Xeno-canto”, into whatever search engine you use, followed by the name of the species you are interested in. It is very likely that you will be able to hear the bird of your choice, wherever in the world it might be. Of course, there are many rare and little-known species still to be added but there will be no problem with British birds and I've found every one of the Sri Lankan birds I've tried for, so far. Most of the time, contributors have entered multiple examples of the bird's vocalisations, so one can listen to song, contact calls, alarm calls etc.

Doug.

Local Wildlife News

The following ‘highlights’ reports received since the last Indoor Meeting in March. If you’ve anything further to add, please feel free to let us know at any time. All reports will be appreciated, whether they relate to birds or any other form of local wildlife. Also, as they say, this is “Just the tip of the iceberg” – there’s a great deal more out there to be found, especially as spring hopefully encourages everything in to life / action.

Adder – good numbers were being reported, though few appeared to have surfaced locally by mid-April. Buzzard – the largest gathering noted was of six, these, with three Red Kite, on / about a field north of Overton on 23rd. Canary – one was seen in a Basingstoke garden, appearing to settle in quite nicely by the middle of April. Chiffchaff – ever-increasing migrant numbers included small ‘falls’ of birds i.e. five in song at Padworth Common on 17th with six there on 6th. Common Twayblade – the first of the local orchids to be seen in flower, albeit well camouflaged amongt the adjacent vegetation. Cuckoo – the first of the year was heard in Bramley on 8th. Dog Violet – three colour variants were to be seen in Lychpit.

Dog Violet Viola riviniana Lychpit, Basingstoke James Andrews

Early Purple Orchid – though none had been reported flowering locally, these had been seen in flower a little further afield. Green Sandpiper – one was a brief visitor to a Borough gravel pit whereas those about Alresford Pond, up to ten, remained to the middle of the month. Jack Snipe – one seen at Alresford Pond was a less than usual visitant there. Kingfisher – a pair was nesting in Longparish by mid-March, others being noted at Barton’s Mill, at least two, and in Overton. Little Egret – one was seen about the river at Totford on several occasions. Meadow Pipit – the northbound movement of birds was often obvious, though no movements similar to that noted on the March Outdoor Meeting were reported. Little Ringed Plover – a pair was already on a private site in the Borough just days after the March Indoor Meeting; still being present nearly a month later. Mandarin – birds continued to be seen about Sherborne St. John, a pair also seen at Burnt Common and a further pair to drop in to Avington Park Lake.

Mandarin Aix galericulata

Avington Park Lake James Andrews

Osprey – one over Avington Park Lake reappeared with a fish, only to be driven off to the north by local Red Kite and Buzzard.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus Avington Park Lake James Andrews

The upper image showing a ‘friendly’ local kite escorting the Osprey northwards

Otter – late evening of the 27th had one appearing at Barton’s Mill, the first seen there in ten years! Peregrine – one was hunting pigeon over Overton on 12th, another being seen over Kempshott Rise on 13th, before heading back towards Basingstoke Town Centre. Pintail – a drake lingered on the lagoons in Overton; an unexpected spring-time bonus.

Red Kite Milvus milvus

Kempshott, Basingstoke

Dave. Levy

Redshank – the first returnee was at a local gravel pit on 5th. Redstart – a male was seen at Ashley Warren; just a hint of things to come, hopefully. Sand Martin – the first were seen in early April, none however lingering for any length of time. Shelduck – a pair was on Burnt Common on at least 23rd and 13th, another pair on Overton Lagoons on 10th. Slow Worm – a warming tangle of four+ was seen on one local heathland site on 13th. Small Tortoiseshell – one of the c.ten butterfly species already recorded about the Borough.

Small Tortoiseshell Aglais urtica Overton Deb. Heath

Stone-curlew – by mid-April news had been received that indicated that all previously used local nest sites were once again occupied; some good news, at last! However, just a single bird was occasionally showing to those not having access to the more private sites. Swallow – the first appeared overhead in early April, numbers disappointingly however hardly building by the middle of the month. Tree Pipit – the first reported was a singing male on 6th, at Burnt Common. Water Pipit – several birds lingered on the cress about the alresfords well in to April. Waxwing – a pair lingered at Avington Park until at least the 5th. Though appearing very late stayers birds in the county have been seen in to early May in recent years.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Avington Park James Andrews An Osprey, Red Kite, Buzzard, pair of Kestrel, pair of Mandarin, singing Chiffchaff and Blackcap, Lapwing and these two all in view at the same time!!!

Wheatear – the first local birds were found on 22nd, two males to the south of Longparish.

Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe James Andrews This fine male being seen at Portland Bill

Whitethroat – the first was, not surprisingly, seen and heard at The Mill Field LNR early in April; this like so many of the migrant warblers to date not lingering or hinting at taking up a territory. Willow Warbler – the first broke the Borough silence a week in to April, the more clement weather however allowing most to pass straight through without making it on to locals notebooks. Woodlark – males were evident at several sites as they took to the warmer air in song. Wood Warbler – a male moving along the hedgerow at Barton’s Lane / The Mill Field LNR on 12th was the first located at the latter site in over a decade. Yellow Wagtail – a singleton low northwards over ‘glowing’ Rapeseed on 7th was the first to be reported locally this year.

As always, thank you to all those that have contributed to this report; if I have missed anything, please do let me know and be sure to keep me updated as we head further in to the spring. If you find anything you consider particularly notable, or you would like an update on what is happening locally, please do feel free to contact me at any time. I can assure you that you will always get a favourable response! 07895 – 388378 is the hot line, well my mobile number anyway! 

Quiz ‘Page’

As Springwatch will be airing by the time you receive this Newsletter, here are a few questions relating to the activities by the crew and the wildlife they were filming at RSPB Minsmere last spring.

1) Which iconic black-and-white wading bird is a speciality of RSPB Minsmere, where Springwatch was filmed?

Avocet Oystercatcher Turnstone Grey heron Lapwing

2) If you hear a sudden 'plop' beside a stream, river or pool in Britain, what animal is most likely to have made the sound?

Otter Water shrew Mink Beaver Water vole

3) Some badgers at Minsmere had developed a taste for birds. But what is the more typical prey of most British badgers?

Woodlice Snails Woodmice Earthworms Ants

4) Which graceful bird featured on Springwatch may spend two or more years airborne after it leaves the nest, before it touches a hard surface again?

Swallow House martin Swift Skylark Nightjar

5) Spineless Simon’ was the nickname for a 3-spined stickleback starring on Springwatch. How do male sticklebacks like Simon impress the females?

Gifts of food Redness of their bellies Fighting other males Blowing bubbles A cheeky wink

6) Martin Hughes-Games had been helping tag adders. Why do the males spend so much time basking on sunny days in spring?

They’re lazy Like other snakes they don’t move around much To lie in wait for passing prey They are strictly nocturnal and sleep by day To help develop sperm ready for mating

7) Which reedbed bird has a territorial call that sounds like someone blowing over the top of a bottle?

Water rail Bearded tit Reed bunting Bittern Snipe

8) Female Great Crested Newts are experts in origami, neatly folding leaves to hide their eggs.

True False

9) Iolo Williams announced on Springwatch that the population of a rare bird had reached 100 breeding pairs in Scotland. Which one?

Red-necked phalarope Hooded crow Ptarmigan White-tailed eagle Golden eagle

10) BBC Wildlife columnist Chris Packham has been introducing some little-used nature words in the latest series of Springwatch. What does 'erumpent' mean:

A noise made by rutting deer Patterns on an animal’s rump Bursting out, for example a growing plant or fungus A rabbit rubbing its backside to relieve an itch A hibernating animal

How did you fare with the spiritual questions last month? As fine upstanding members of the birding community I feel sure that you all achieved 100%! If not, here are the answers.

1: What birds did God provide for the children of Israel to eat during their exodus from Egypt?

Turtledoves

Pigeons

Quails

Ostriches

2: What type of bird did Solomon import?

Peacocks

Owls

Parrots

Eagles

3: Which king described his situation as "like a crane or a swallow, so did I chatter: I did mourn as a dove"?

Ahaz

Jehoshaphat

David

Hezekiah

4: Proverbs says that anyone who scorns his parents will have his eyes picked out by which type of bird?

Vultures

Sparrows

Ravens

Eagles

5: Who had a vision of two women with stork wings?

Zechariah

Daniel

Ezekiel

Jeremiah

6: As what bird did the Holy Spirit appear at the baptism of Jesus?

Pigeon

Raven

Dove

Sparrow

7: What two birds did Abram sacrifice to God?

Quail & Dove

Dove & Pigeon

Pigeon & Quail

Sparrow & Turtledove

8: Which Babylonian king had a dream about a tree where every bird found shelter?

Nebuchadnezzar

Xerxes

Cyrus

Belshazzar

9: On which day of creation did God create birds?

2nd

3rd

4th

5th

10: Who said that he had become a companion of owls?

Job

Jonah

Elijah

Isaiah

11: Which bird's song, in the Song of Solomon, is a sign of spring?

Sparrow

Nightingale

Owl

Turtledove

12: Which prophet said that Ahab's people would be eaten by birds?

Jeremiah

Isaiah

Elisha

Elijah

13: Who had a dream about birds eating from a basket on his head?

Pharaoh

Pharaoh's butler

Pharaoh's baker

Joseph

14: Which bird was being sold in the temple when Jesus drove out the money-changers?

Doves

Water hens

Partridges

Quails

15: According to John, which city will become a home for every unclean bird?

Sodom

Babylon

Jerusalem

Nineveh

16: Who had a vision of a great sheet filled with unclean birds and other animals?

Barnabas

Peter

John

Paul

17: According to Job, which foolish bird lays its eggs on the ground, left to be warmed by the sun?

Vulture

Ostrich

Quail

Peacock

18: Who had a vision of a lion with the wings of an eagle?

Zechariah

John

Daniel

Ezekiel

19: The face of which bird appeared in the Ezekiel's vision of the creatures with four faces?

Owl

Heron

Hawk

Eagle

20: According to Isaiah, which bird honours God for providing streams in the desert?

Owl

Stork

Vulture

Raven

And Finally!

Latest State Of UK's Birds 2016 Report Reveals Further Worrying Declines

More than a quarter of British birds are in need of urgent conservation efforts, according to a major new report.

The State of the UK's birds 2016 report — the 'one-stop shop' for all the latest results and figures from bird surveys and monitoring studies — highlights how more than 25 per cent of our regularly occurring bird species are now red-listed, with Eurasian Curlew, Atlantic Puffin and Common Nightingale all joining the growing list of threatened species.

Many of these additions reflect severe recent declines in populations and range across Britain. Eight of the species involved (Balearic Shearwater, Aquatic Warbler, Common Pochard, Long-tailed Duck, Velvet Scoter, Slavonian Grebe, Puffin and Turtle Dove), are considered to be at risk of global extinction.

Cause for concern is the continuing downward trend among upland species, with five added to the Red List. Giving cause for concern. Europe's largest and most distinctive wader, Eurasian Curlew, has been added to the Red List and is joined by Dotterel, Whinchat, Grey Wagtail and Merlin. This highlights the fact many of the UK's upland species are in increasing trouble, with the total number red-listed upland species now at 12.

Dotterel is one of the many upland species still faring badly in the UK

Terry Hobson

Hosting up to a quarter of the global breeding population of Eurasian Curlew, Britain and Ireland are considered among the most important countries in the world for the species. However, numbers have almost halved due to habitat loss in recent decades and, with a much smaller population, predators are now having an effect on what was a resilient population. Given that the species is globally near-threatened and urgent action is required to halt its decline, an International Single Species Action Plan has been created.

Dr Daniel Hayhow, RSPB Conservation Scientist, said: "Curlews are instantly recognisable on winter estuaries or summer moors by their striking long, curved beak, long legs and evocative call. They are one of our most charismatic birds and also one of our most important.

"The State of the UK's birds report shows that through land management, new research and existing data, the International Single Species Action Plan aims to understand the key causes of Curlew declines across the UK and the Republic of Ireland and take action to reverse this trend."

However, it is not all doom and gloom, as the report reveals good news for some species. Despite ongoing persecution, Golden Eagle numbers have increased by 15 per cent since the previous survey in 2003. There is also good news for Cirl Buntings, which are now estimated to have over 1,000 breeding pairs. The winter thrushes survey also shows how important the UK is for migrant birds coming from the continent.

Cirl Bunting has benefited from targeted conservation action in recent years John Dickenson

In addition to these successes, a number of species have moved from the Red list to the Amber or Green lists. Two species, Bittern and European Nightjar, have moved from Red to Amber thanks to the creation and management of suitable habitat, and an additional 22 species have moved from the Amber to the Green list meaning they are now of the lowest conservation concern. Most notably among these is Red Kite. Once one of the UK's most threatened species, it is now on the Green list thanks to the efforts of conservationists and landowners alike. These successes demonstrate that there is cause for hope for other Red- listed species and that targeted conservation action can make a real difference.