CORNWALL BIRD-WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY Fifty-Seventh Annual Report 1987

St. George Printing Works Ltd., . Tel: 217033 Officers 1988 - 89

President Dr C.J.F. Coombs, Greenwith Place, Perranwell, . Chairman L.A. Smith, 21 Vicarage Meadows, . Vice Chairman N.R. Phillips, 8 The Warren, St Ives. General Secretary A.R. Pay, 13 Tregellas Road, Mullion. Treasurer and Registrar A.F. Reynolds, 33 Treworder Road, Truro. Field Meetings Officer D.L. Thomas, Mirador, Whitecross, . Conservation Officer D.S. Flumm, 52 Porthia Road, St Ives. Asst. Conservation Officer R.J. Hooton, 1 Bodieve Farm Cottages, Bodieve, . Newsletter Editor F.M. Couch, 29 Roman Drive, . Officer for Youth and Education A.C. Hathway, Langurra, Meadow End, Green Lane, Crantock, Newquay. Recorder and Editor 'Birds in ' S.M. Christophers, 5 Newquay Road, . Asst. Editor E.J. Cook, 7 Trethewey Way, Newquay. Recorder and Editor 'Isles of Scilly Bird Report' M.J. Rogers, Bag End, Churchtown, Towednack, St Ives. Committee Members S.C. Madge () and B. Wilson () retire 1989; R. Butts (Mullion) and B.T. Craven (Launceston) retire 1990; J.A. Jane (Truro), J.E. Millett (Chacewater), D. Penwarden (Truro), G.P. Sutton () and B. Wotton (Newquay) retire 1991. (The positions of Minutes Secretary and Public Relations Officer remain vacant.)

2 CHAIRMANS REPORT 1988

I was honoured to be elected Chairman at the Annual General Meeting held on 16th April 1988.

It is my pleasure to devote the first part of this report to recording the tremendous service that Peggy Visick has given to this Society.

It was only on being elected Vice Chairman nearly three years ago that I realised the vast amount of work that she had been doing in a most professional manner. The Society had become part of her life, and the lobbying, correspondence and telephoning she was involved in was known only to a few. Peggy has been a member for many years and first joined the Executive Committee in 1952. She was elected Vice Chairman in 1969 and in 1972 succeeded Dr Coombs as Chairman. In her letter of resignation she says that it was her ambition to see the Society celebrate its 50th anniversary in 1981 - she has more than exceeded her goal.

Her reminiscences of watching birds on the Scillies with the late Hilda Quick are most amusing. This was, of course, in the days before the Islands had achieved the international status that they now enjoy in birding circles. Peggy will be greatly missed as Chairman, but I am sure that we will enjoy the benefits of her wisdom, knowledge, enthusiasm and charming company for many years to come.

In recognition of her outstanding services to the Society Peggy was unanimously elected an Honorary Member of the Society at the Annual General Meeting 1988.

It now gives me great pleasure to record that Roy Phillips has been elected Vice Chairman. Roy has been a prominent voice on the Cornish birding scene for many years and has held a number of offices, including Recorder, Editor and most recently Assistant Conservation Officer. He has led learned bodies of ornithologists to the Middle East and elsewhere and has recently blossomed into prominence by becoming an award winning author.

As I reported at the A.G.M. the Society is in good heart. We have slightly more members than we had last year and, as the Balance Sheet shows, we are financially sound. However, as the Treasurer Mr Alan Reynolds reminded members, although we ended the year with money in hand, if two proposed hides are provided, there would be no surplus next year.

Subscriptions have not been increased for five years and individual membership at £5 must surely represent one of the best deals available to birdwatchers anywhere in the country.

From time to time comment is made as to what members get for their money. They get two nationally acclaimed bird reports, two newsletters, two General Meetings, a number of indoor meetings and a series of field days organised by David Thomas with the cooperation of many experienced members throughout the county. These make the Society an important body of which to be a member. In recent times, special meetings have been held by the Executive Committee with regard to Society policy, and as we approach our Diamond Jubilee in 1991, it is reassuring that we are considering where we are going and what we are doing to maintain the aims and objectives set out so long ago. During the year we have had a site meeting and a field meeting at the Walmsley

3 Sanctuary. The work carried out by S.W.W. is noticeable and there has been a definite improvement in the volume of standing water on the Sanctuary in winter. We are awaiting planning permission for a hide overlooking the area. A further hide is planned near the Golden Lion at Stithians Reservoir and this will augment the two hides already in use in the area.

The Management Plans requested by S.W.W. have been formulated in committee and forwarded for approval.

We are conscious of the need for vigilance regarding the preservation of habitat within the county and we have been represented at meetings held in respect of the change of use of Copperhouse Pool at and shooting on the Camel Estuary. Despite the fact that the Society took a responsible attitude in the latter discussions, we have been told by the landowner that we have to move the very successful Tregunna hide from his land. Every effort has been made to ensure that the hide remained but no response has been received to our letters and representations. This is particularly disappointing but we hope to erect on another site on the Camel Trail.

In preparing this report at very short notice, it will be inevitable that I have omitted to thank some of those who have worked hard to make the Society run smoothly. However I must make particular mention of our Secretary, Andy Pay, our prudent Treasurer Alan Reynolds and our Newsletter Editor Francis Couch. Finally, and most importantly to Stan Christophers and Mike Rogers, for their work as Recorders and for preparing their impressive Bird Reports for Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly respectively.

Les Smith

4 CONTENTS

Page

Officers for 1988/89 2

Chairmans Report 3

Treasurers Report 6

Editorial and Review of the Year 8

Contributors 12

Exotica 112

B.B.R.C. Decisions 113

Breeding Seabirds Survey 1987 114

The Red-necked Grebe in Cornwall 122

Chukars 125

The birds of Little Nanteague and Allet Bog 127

Ringing Report 1987 133

Systematic List for 1987 136

The Society's Rules 140 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1987

1986 £ £ P £ P INCOME Subscriptions 3,739 Annual Membership 1987 3,567.00 300 Life membership 544 Tax refund on covenanted subscriptions - 1987 542.44

4,583 4,109.44 211 Donations 221.30 350 Rent, Walmsley Sanctuary 350.00 Interest 32 31.56 105 Cornwall County Council Bonds . 52.50 1,387 N.S.B. Investment Account 1,734.11 443 Charities deposit fund 389.62 53 Bank Deposit Account 28.18

2,020 2,235.97 Other Income 1,525 Sale of Annual Reports — Scilly 1,067.37 265 — Mainland 368.85 356 Other Sales and income 158.20 2,146 1,594.42

9,310 8,511.13 Less: EXPENDITURE Printing, Stationery and Postages Annual Reports, 1986: 1,975 Mainland 1,760.00 1,346 Scilly 1,410.00 303 News Letters 280.00 301 Other Printing and Stationery ... 270.63 754 Postages 673.37 132 Rents and licences 57.00 140 Insurances 143.42 66 Hire of rooms for meetings 66.95 95 Hide expenses 19.00 Subscriptions and donations 46 to Societies 127.80 71 Goods for resale 12.26 _ Stithians improvements 378.46 185 Miscellaneous 437.73 5,414 5,636.62

3,896 2,874.51 Less: Contributions and Donations - CTNC Bird Surveys 250.00 150 Swanpool 50 Millook Woods - 250 Chough Research - 75 Royal Institution Bird Exhibits 120.00- 525 370.00 £3,371 EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE £2,504.51

6 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER, 1987

1986 £ £ P £ p INVESTMENTS £902.24 3±°/o War Loan at market price at 315 31st December, 1987 339.47 Cornwall County Council Bonds:— 1,000 10±°7o Repayable 31st March, 1987 - 1,315 339.47 98 DEBTORS 147.74 180 STOCK at cost 335.00 BANK BALANCES 13,795 N.S.B. Investment Account 18,529.64 3,500 Charities Deposit Fund 3,000.00 674 Bank Deposit Account 152.34 389 Current Account 155.00 - Cash in Hand -

18,358 21,836.98

19,951 22,659.19 Less: LIABILITIES 192 Subscriptions received in advance 378.50 16 Sundry Creditors 8.21

208 386.71

£19,743 NET ASSETS £22,272.48 ACCUMULATED FUNDS Balance at 31st December, 1986 19,743.15 Add: Excess of Income over Expenditure for year 2,504.51

22,247.66 Add: Increase in Market Value of War Loan 24.82

£19,743 £22,272.48 NOTE: The Society also owns land at Trethias Island and Walmsley Sanctuary in addition to the assets shown in this Balance Sheet.

REPORT OF THE AUDITORS TO CORNWALL BIRDWATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY

We have audited the above Balance Sheet and attached Income and Expenditure Account in accordance with approved auditing standards. In our opinion, the above Balance Sheet and attached Income and Expenditure Account give a true and fair view of the state of the Society's affairs at 31st December 1987, and of its surplus Income over Expenditure for the year then ended. Whitaker, Redfearn, Pappin & Co.

7 EDITORIAL and REVIEW of the YEAR 279 species and 12 distinctive sub-species or races were reported during 1987 and found to be acceptable.

As always a few records of very rare species are omitted but details have been forwarded to BBRC for consideration.

About 240 observers submitted records for inclusion in this Report. Whilst most records were of a very high standard, there are still a few observers who submit their observations of county rarities without supporting descriptions. I would also advise some observers to obtain a copy of The British Birds List of the Birds of the Western Palearctic'. Therein they will find the correct order for submitting records which will not only assist myself, but also themselves.

Chukar and Ring-necked Parakeet were added to the county list in 1987 and there was a late acceptance of Dusky Warbler for 1985.

Sociable Plover and Swainson's Thrush were recorded for the second time and Franklin's Gull, Forster's Tern, Chimney Swift and Northern Parula for the third time. Most encouragingly there was a continuance of sporadic Chough records.

Although the year opened with cold air blowing in from the North, many wintering species, notably wildfowl and thrushes were in short supply. Despite this a long list of overwintering rarities included American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Ring- necked Duck, Long-billed Dowitcher, Bonaparte's Gull, Ring Ouzel and two Choughs.

From January 10th temperatures plummeted to record lows as high pressure developed over Scandinavia and bitterly cold winds were drawn in from the East. This freeze persisted until about 20th and resulted in very large flocks of wildfowl arriving in the county. There were influxes of Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Scaup, Smew and Goosander plus a county-record sized flock of Gadwall.

Other displaced birds included at least three Bitterns, and single Red Kite, Ruddy Shelduck and Waxwing.

After 20th, milder Atlantic air warmed the county until about February 13th when another high pressure area developed which resulted in a return to cold northerly winds for the next ten days. During this period there was a county-record gathering of Red-throated Divers, a Goshawk, a Franklin's Gull, a Forster's Tern and another Waxwing.

The first three weeks of March were again cold but the last week was milder with a severe gale on 27th. The first ten days of the month produced an early Manx Shearwater, a Long-eared Owl and a Great Grey Shrike. Mid-month there was a fair passage of wildfowl and waders. The gale of 27th may have been responsible for the death of a Little Bittern and undoubtedly grounded an early Dotterel.

April remained cold until about 11th when an anticyclone developed but which did not induce any significant migration until 17th when the wind swung to the south-east and brought warm, dry weather to the county for Easter. These conditions persisted until about 29th when there was a resumption of south-westerly airstream. Early in

8 the month there had been a Cuckoo on 2nd, a 'fall' of phylloscopus warblers on 4th and a Surf Scoter the same day. There were also two Chukars (which had undoubtedly been released) and the first of eleven Hoopoes.

During the spell from 17th to 29th there were good arrivals of migrants including the first of the year's three Gull-billed Terns, a Wryneck, Nightingale, Savi's Warbler, two Subalpine Warblers, four Golden Orioles and two Woodchat Shrikes, whilst the heron family was represented by Night Heron, Little Egret and Purple Heron.

A blocking cold front from the North grounded many birds at the beginning of May, but from about 6th the weather pattern, particularly the wind changed rapidly and regularly. Nevertheless, unusual species continued to occur. In the first week of the month there was another Little Egret, Montagu's Harrier, Nightingale, Bearded Tit, Golden Oriole, Woodchat Shrike and Ortolan Bunting. These were followed by several rare birds of prey including two Ospreys, another Montagu's and a Marsh Harrier, a Goshawk and a Honey Buzzard.

A Spotted Sandpiper was an unexpected spring migrant and presumably had wintered on this side of the Atlantic. Other mid-month waders included a Temminck's Stint and a flock of four Black-winged Stilts. Towards the end of the month the first of eleven Quail was reported.

June was a miserably wet, cold and windy month as a result of depressions tracking across the U.K. at a more southerly latitude than is normal at this time of the year.

Breeding birds were obviously badly hit as nests were washed out, eggs chilled and food sources depleted. Stonechats, which had again been hit by the January freeze, were particularly scarce. Kestrel, Grey Partridge, Little Owl, Dartford Warbler and Corn Bunting were much reduced but Great Crested Grebe, Canada Goose, Dipper, Lesser Whitethroat and Pied Flycatcher continued to be successful. Notable migrants included Little Egret, five or six Bee Eaters and Black-eared Wheatear.

July was a rather better month weather-wise but a dull month bird-wise. A Golden Oriole early and some heavy shearwater movements, particularly Sooty Shearwater, later in the month were the features.

August was basically warm, dry and settled but there were gales late in the month. Wader passage was slow and few passerine migrants were recorded. There was an early Aquatic Warbler and yet another Little Egret but very little until the last ten days. The first Nearctic waders of the autumn arrived in the shape of single Pectoral Sandpiper and Wilson's Phalarope.

September was a very productive month throughout. It was wet and windy from 5th to 15th but then much more settled again. Best birds of an exciting period were three Blue-winged Teal, American Golden Plover, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Alpine Swift, Ring-necked Parakeet, the first Yellow-browed Warbler of the autumn, Red- breasted Flycatcher, two Red-backed Shrikes, Chough and the first of c. 180 Lapland and c. 150 Snow Buntings.

The first week of October proved to be something of an anticlimax although there was a Corncrake and the two best sea watches of the year. A legacy of the winds was a Red-eyed Vireo and a Northern Parula.

The outstanding weather feature of the month was the hurricane which swept across Southern Britain leaving a trail of devastation on 15th and 16th, but which mercifully caused comparatively little grief in Cornwall.

Nonetheless many displaced seabirds were pushed up the English Channel and

9 eventually moved west passing close inshore on the south coast. Less expected were two Snow Geese, a Chimney Swift, a Swainson's Thrush and another Red-eyed Vireo. Late in the month there was a mini influx of Red-rumped Swallows and a Pallas's Warbler.

November arrived with fine weather and another Pallas's Warbler followed by a Twite and a Short-toed Lark. The middle two weeks were wet and unsettled but there was a very small influx of wildfowl including a Green-winged Teal, a Ring- necked Duck and three Ruddy Ducks.

The first half of December was generally cold and cloudy but the second half was much warmer with gales at the end of the year. Thrush and finch flocks were small and most waders scarce. Several Smew were reported and interesting raptors included a Red Kite and a wandering Marsh Harrier. Seabirds were represented by the latest-ever Leach's Petrel and a New Years Eve Grey Phalarope.

Thanks To all who made a contribution to this report but especially: John Cook for assistance with recording and summaries. Bob Salmon for the Ringing Report. Dave Flumm for Wildfowl Counts. Roger Smaldon, Roger Lane, Andrew Harrop, Andy Smith for articles. Alma Hathway for the cover drawing. Andy Birch and Dave Flumm for drawings. Mike Frost and Adrian Langdon for photographs. Dave Flumm, Ted Griffiths, Roger Smaldon, Vic Tucker and Steve Madge for assistance and advice with county rarities and contentious records.

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

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

County rarities requiring field notes include:

Red-necked Grebe Sabine's Gull Black-necked Grebe Ring-billed Gull Leach's Petrel Iceland Gull Cory's Shearwater Glaucous Gull Great Shearwater Roseate Tern Bittern Arctic Tern Purple Heron Black Guillemot White Stork Little Auk Garganey Long-eared Owl Velvet Scoter Woodlark Ruddy Duck Richard's Pipit All grey geese Tawny Pipit Snow Goose Water Pipit Honey Buzzard Nightingale Red Kite Bluethroat Marsh Harrier Cetti's Warbler Montagu's Harrier Savi's Warbler Goshawk Aquatic Warbler

10 Hobby Barred Warbler Spotted Crake Yellow-browed Warbler Crane Wood Warbler (migrants) Little Ringed Plover All Hippolais warblers Kentish Plover Red-breasted Flycatcher Dotterel Willow Tit Temminck's Stint Golden Oriole Pectoral Sandpiper Tree Sparrow Buff-breasted Sandpiper Serin Red-necked Phalarope Scarlet Rosefinch Pomarine Skua Lapland Bunting Long-tailed Skua Ortolan Bunting Mediterranean Gull Cirl Bunting

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

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

Records for 1988 should be sent to the Recorder by 15th January 1989 at the very latest. However to assist with the early publication of the Report I would be pleased to receive the bulk of records at any time during the current year.

Stan Christophers.

WILDFOWL COUNTS

Under a number of wildfowl species the reader will note the inclusion of tables of counts for the winter period 1987/88.

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

The counts in Cornwall are organised by D.S. Flumm of 52 Porthia Road, St. Ives TR26 2JB.

31 sites were covered during 1987/88 but help is still needed at Lynher Estuary, an extremely important site in the county for Wigeon and arguably the most important site for Shelduck in the county (with an average wintering population of 222 over 22 years).

Areas covered and their counters are as follows. St Johns Lake and Estuary - S.C. Madge, Siblyback Reservoir - J.H. Finch, Dozmary Pool and Colliford Reservoir - J.A. d'E. Miller and D. Conway, Crowdy Reservoir - B.T. Craven, Par Pools - P. Searle, Porth Reservoir - R.H. Poynton, Carrick Roads - B. Rider, Ruan Lanihorne - J. Conbeer, Tresillian and Truro Rivers - P.S. Christie, Argal and College Reservoir - D.J. Lidstone, Stithians Reservoir - A. Langford, Swanpool, Restronguet and Helford Estuary - L.A.H. Sari, Loe Pool and Park Lake - J.S. Gilbert, Pendarves and Cargenwen Reservoir - A. Rowe, Clowance Pond and Hayle Millpond - E.J. Thomas, Hayle Estuary and Copperhouse - D.S. Flumm, Bussow Reservoir - W. Falconer, Marsh-T.K. Plummer, Sennen and Drift Reservoir-H.P.K. Robinson. In the tables - n.c. = no count - = none recorded.

11 Contributors Adams, C. Elliott, P. Jones, S.I. Adams, Miss H. Elvins, Miss M.C Keat, Mrs J. Akers, P. Eva, D. Kelley, D.F. Alexander, P.W. Evans, R.J. Kendall, I. Aley, PH. Exelby,N.B. Kenerfick, M. Allen, Mrs B. Fanshawe, J. Lane,R. Allison, R.I. Field, B.R. Latham, M. Anstee, Miss J. Flumm, D.S. Lawman, R. Ashmore, N.F. Foot, D. Lawson, M. Ashworth, M.A.J. Ford, D.T. Leigh, Mr & Mrs L.M. Bailey, M.R.A. Ford, R.W. Lewis, D. Baker, Mrs B. Fossey, Mrs M. Lewis, LtG.D. Barker, D.J. and MrsD.C. Foster, J.C. Lewis, N. Barnard, C.C. Fowler, S.G. Liddement, D.J Beddard, R. (RBd) Frost, M.P. Lowndes, R.L. & Mrs L.M. Bellamy, G Fuller, D. McDonald, Dr R. Birch, A.R. &M.P. Gaca, J. Madge, S.C. Bond, A.J. Gilbert, J.S. Maker, P. A. Bottomley, J.B. & S. Godfrey, D. Manwaring, I.R. Bowden, N.A.G. & P.N. Golley, M.A. Marr, B.A.E. Brodie, E. Gould, R.W. Mason, B.A. Burns, D.W. & B.J. Grace, E. Mason, R. Burton, A. & Mrs B.E. Gribble, H.F. Masters, C. Bury, S. Griffiths, G. Masters, L. Butts, R. Gynn, G. & Dr E.G. Mather, S.T Cabbie, N.J. Hammon, V. Meyer, R. Callaway, Mr & Mrs R. Hanlon, V.J. Miller, J. A.d'E. Catley, G.P. Hannaford, R. Mitchell, S.J. Cave,B. Harper, R. Moyser, G. Cave, J. Harris, A. Nash, H. Charles, P. Harrop, A.H.J. Nicholls, J.C. Chesborough P.S. & Mrs J. E. Hathway, A.C. Norman, T.E. Chown, D.J. Hathway, R.J. Odell,D.J. Christmas, S.G. Hawkey, J. Otsu, M. Christophers, S.M., Head, C. Page,A. Mrs AD. & H.M. Head, V. Page,J. Christophers, B.T.S. Higson, P. Parslow, J.L.F. Clatworthy, J. Hillman, R. Pattenden, B. Cleare,MrsD.S. Hoar, K.J. Pay, A.R. &MrsH.C. Clemo,N.P. & MrsB. Holland, KG. Penhallurick, R.D. Cole, S.J. Honeychurch, F.H. Perkins, R.J. Colliver, N.A. Hopkins, P. Phillips, R.M. Cook, E.J. Horton, D. Pinson, Mrs A.J. Copley, I. Hurst, B. Poulding, R.H. Couch, F.M. Inch, B.T. & Mrs D.F. Powell, L.S& Mrs E.M Courtnell, D.R. Ironside, Mrs J. Poynton, R. & Mrs R. Cox, Dr A.F.J. Jackson, G.C. Prophet, A.I. Cox, S.J. Jackson, S. Randall, J.M. Craven, B.T. James, J.W. Rayment, M.D. Dennis, M.C. James, M.D. Rigby, D.J. Dickens, H. James, R.M.R. Riley, D. Dingle, T.J. Jane, J. A. Roberts, Mrs T.J. Dustow, J. Jewels, A.M. Rogers, M.J. Dwyer, P.J. Johnson, D.L. Rosier, A.B. Eckersall, E. Jones, Miss M.J. Rundle, P.

12 Rutter, P.A. Sutton, M.D. Webb, G.A. Salmon, R.J. Sutton, G.P. Webb, L. Sari, L.A.H. Taylor, R.J. White, G. Sawyer, Lt. Col. E.L. Thomas, G.H. White, G.R. & Mrs M. Selwyn, Dr. J.G. Thurgood, G. Whitehouse, I.C. Sharp, R.V.G. Tonking, C.N. Wicks, S. Sillifant, P.T. Tout, Mrs M.C. Wilcox, P.R. Skeen, R.Q. Truscott, L.A.C. Williams, L.P. Smaldon, R. Tucker, K. Willmott, B. Smith, A.D. Tucker, V.R. Wilson, J.H.W. Smith, Mrs D.B. Tyzzer, J.G. Wolfenden, W.A.R. & Mrs. M. Smith, D.F. Visick,MrsM.P. Wood, D. &P. Smith, Mr & Mrs J. Vitoria, M. Wotton,B. Smith, L.A.& Mrs F. Wake, R.E. Wright, J. Southam, M. Wallis, H.W. Wright, S. Spalding, K. Warren, Rev. R.G. Yelland, D.M. Speak, P.W. Weake, M.S. B.T.O. Spowage, R.M. Webb,B.L. R.S.P.B. Stidwill, P.A.

13 Species List for 1987

The following species are in the order shown in 'The British Birds List of Birds of the Western Palearctic' Please note the following definitions: (a) 'Porthgwarra' includes the area south of a line drawn from Carn Les Boel to . (b) 'Mounts Bay' refers only to that part of the bay between Mousehole and Marazion. (c) 'Whitsand Bay' refers to the bay east of Looe and not the bay of a similar name at Sennen. (d) ' Bay' includes Par Bay. (e) 'Pentire Point' - north of . (f) 'Porth Mear' - Porthcothan and not the cove of a similar name near St Ives.

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

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

References: Penhallurick, R.D. 'Birds of the Cornish Coast' Truro 1969. Penhallurick, R.D. 'The birds of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly', 1976. Rodd, E.H. 'The Birds of Cornwall', London 1880. Ryves, B.H. 'Bird Life in Cornwall', London 1948 Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Reports 1931 - 1986.

RED-THROATED DIVER - Gavia stellata

Uncommon winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although widely scattered along the more sheltered south coast, recent obser­ vations have discovered large concentrations along the north coast particularly between Perranporth and Port Isaac, in the early part of the year. Whilst these numbers are high for Cornwall they are much smaller than the flocks of several hundred which are now noted annually off Hartland Point, North Devon. In 1987 there were reports from 29 localities, 15 on the south coast and 14 on the north coast. The following records were of most interest. Although no specific reports of overwintering were received there were nonetheless several multiple occurrences during January. At Bude seven flew north January 3rd and at nearby Widemouth Bay there was 26 January 9th. Off a county-record sized flock of 86 was counted January 21st. The vast majority of these birds were located in sheltered Mother Ivey's Bay to the north of the Head. Unfortunately regular observations were not possible and numbers had decreased to 31 February 11th and only a single February 13th. SMC. Birds dispersing from this flock may account for 12 off January 30th and 16 in Newquay Bay February 15th. In birds were regular from January 18th with a peak of ten February 3rd. Elsewhere there were maxima of six at February 21st and five at Hayle the same day. Very few lingered into March although nine at Looe on 4th were notable. Late spring passage was very light with a total of c.9

14 birds during April, including four at Praa Sands on 14th, and a single late bird off May 30th. The first in autumn was one flying west at September 22nd followed by singles off Bude and Mevagissey October 6th. There were seven more reports for the month including three in St Austell Bay October 9th. The build-up continued at this locality to a peak of eight November 27th-30th followed by a decrease throughout December. Elsewhere reports concerned mainly singles. The exceptions included a total of ten flying west off Bude and four off St Ives November 28th.

Single birds were overwintering into 1988 at St Austell Bay and Newquay.

BLACK-THROATED DIVER - Gavia arctica Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Predominantly a bird of the sheltered south coast with large concentrations regu­ larly occurring in the to Carrick Roads area. Veryan/Gerrans Bays attracts perhaps 5% of the total U.K. winter total but the species is surprisingly scarce in nearby St Austell Bay. Occasionally occurs in reasonable numbers at other sites, notably Mounts Bay and St Ives particularly in spring. During 1987 there were reports from 23 sites (a marked decrease on recent years) 17 on the south coast and 6 on the north coast. Veryan Bay: monthly max. January - 48 (3rd), February - 36 (7th), March - 32 (14th), May - 84 (4th), November - 14 (21st). Gerrans Bay: monthly max. January - 24 (3rd), February - 22 (18th), March - 39 (14th), April - 1 (17th), November - 13 (14th/26th), December - 8 (20th). Careful observations by RL indicate that the combined totals for the two bays are perhaps higher than formerly suspected. Apart from 72 January 3rd and the massive flock of 84+ May 4th there was the usual mid-March peak which this year reached 71 after a relatively poor February. The end of year totals were low, reflecting no doubt the very mild weather. Elsewhere in the first winter period most reports were of singles or twos. Larger concentrations include five off Marazion January 21st increasing to nine January 30th and 22 February 20th. Very few remained through March but eleven were present April 4th. In Carrick Roads, where only one or two were noted during January and early February, there was an increase to three or four later and ten April 10th. In St Austell Bay, six March 16th were undoubtedly passage birds because only one or two had been seen here previously. There was evidence of a very light spring passage in April and early May, but apart from the Veryan flock the only number of note was five in St Austell Bay May 18th. Incredibly there were only two records from the north coast during the first winter and spring period; singles at and Camel Estuary January/February. Last in spring was one at Veryan May 26th. In autumn the first were two at Mevagissey August 29th and a single at Praa Sands September 24th. Reports remained very sparse to the end of the year with records from only 14 localities. Apart from Veryan and Gerrans the maximum were nine in Falmouth Bay December 13th and three in St Austell Bay November 27th and December 19th.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER - Gavia immer

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Although the most widespread of the divers, most birds remain very solitary and very rarely form anything other than very small 'rafts' unlike the more gregarious Black-throated and Red- throated divers. Recent observations have shown St Austell Bay to be the prime site for this species with regular good numbers in Veryan, Gerrans, Mounts and St Ives bays.

15 In the first winter and spring period there were reports from most of the usual sites. In St Austell Bay, where there had been a total of 18 in December 1986, only ten were present January 1st and seven January 16th, but because this diver feeds further offshore than the other two common species it was not surprising that 20 were noted in the bay January 23rd. Numbers fluctuated wildly between two and 18 until mid-April with peaks of 28 February 19th and 20 March 16th/20th and April 14th. Regular observations in the Veryan and Gerrans Bay and Carrick Roads area suggested a total population of about a dozen birds which were very mobile, occurring at different sites in response to changing weather conditions. For instance, on January 3rd four were noted in Veryan Bay, five in Gerrans Bay and one in Carrick Roads. On January 31st none were noted at Veryan or Gerrans but there were four in Carrick Roads and by February 19th all had left Carrick Roads but six were at Veryan and four at Gerrans Bay. In March, nine were at Gerrans on 16th but none at Veryan the same day and in April, ten were at Veryan on 4th but none at Gerrans the same day! These movements between sites are clearly worthy of further research. Off the north coast records were very sparse with none at all north of Camel Estuary. The maximum by far were five in St Ives Bay January 2nd. Elsewhere on the south coast the maximum included four at Mounts Bay January 21st, six off Mevagissey February 8th and five at Helford Estuary February 14th. Spring migrants were noted from mid-March and included 16 in St Ives Bay March 14th, a total of eleven flying west off Rame Head between April 11th and May 31st, a total of four west off Porthgwarra April 22nd - May 22nd and five at St Ives May 7th. In St Austell and Mevagissey bays birds lingered through June and into July with the last two at Porthpean July 14th. The first in autumn was off Dodman Point August 29th and may have been one of the St Austell birds 'summering'. None were reported during September but a single had returned to St Austell Bay by October 9th and there were singles at Mevagissey and Gerrans bays on 10th and two west at St Ives the same day. There was a very slow build up in St Austell Bay with peaks of 9 October 22nd and 18 November 27th with up to 14 regular to the end of the year. Elsewhere there were seven at Gerrans Bay November 21st and a maximum of three each at Looe, Mevagissey and Mounts Bay. Overwintering birds on the north coast were again few with singles only at St Ives, Hayle and Newquay and two at Camel Estuary. One wonders whether the increasing use of monofilament fishing nets, which appears to be a predominantly north coast activity (or is better documented here) is having a deleterious effect on this species (as it is on a number of other species). Inland there were two records: The Crowdy 1986 bird remained until February 15th AJB BTC and there was one at Stithians Reservoir December 1st SMC. TMC.

LITTLE GREBE - Tachybaptus ruficollis

A scarce resident which breeds in very low numbers. Local birds are joined by passage migrants in spring and autumn with many remaining to winter. The only regular breeding site in recent years has been Stithians Reservoir where breeding has occurred in every year since 1981. In 1987 three pairs may have bred. One pair successfully reared one young. A second pair built a nest which was abandoned when the water level dropped but then built again and a third pair built a nest a short distance away but both the second and third pairs were unsuccessful. At Crowdy Reservoir, where breeding is often suspected, birds were noted to the end of May and a pair with one juvenile was present September 18th. At Allet a juvenile was present July 15th to August 3rd and at Long Rock Pool a juvenile was noted from July 19th for two weeks. In neither instance was a parent seen, suggesting that both birds had been bred elsewhere. In the first winter period there were reports from all regular sites including all reservoirs except Colliford and College. Maximum numbers were again low with most of the largest concentrations recorded at the time of the January freeze. 11

16 were at Argal Reservoir January 3rd, 13 at Tresemple Pool January 5th, eight at Camel Estuary January 14th to February 11th, 14 at Hayle Estuary complex January 16th, eight at St Johns Lake January 16th, ten at Percuil January 20th, four at Porth Reservoir January 23rd, four at Lynher Estuary February 7th, seven at St Just in Roseland February 18th and seven at Helford Estuary March 15th. In autumn, apart from the juveniles mentioned previously, the first was one at Loe Pool August 8th followed by one at Porth Reservoir August 27th. Fair numbers arrived from mid-October and second winter concentrations were larger than average. Maximum included nine at Tresemple Pool November 1st increasing to ten November 22nd, nine at St Johns Lake November 7th, eight at Camel Estuary November 30th and seven at Percuil December 22nd. Up to six were noted at Fowey Estuary and five each at Porth Reservoir and Helford Estuary.

GREAT CRESTED GREBE - Podiceps cristatus

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Bred successfully in 1930 but did not attempt to breed again until 1985 when a pair nested unsuccessfully at College Reservoir. In 1986 a pair was again unsuccessful in the same area but a pair successfully reared one young at Lower Tamar Lake. In 1987 a pair again reared one young at Lower Tamar Lake KS et al. As the British population continues to expand the possibility of breeding pairs at other sites should not be overlooked. Certainly much greater numbers occur now in winter than formerly. This year there were reports from 20 localities and whilst most were from the south coast there were records from eight north coast sites. At least four birds had overwintered in the Lynher Estuary/St Johns Lake complex and a single at Lower Tamar Lake. Very few arrived with the mid-January freeze but displaced birds started to appear later in the month and more in mid-February. Maxima included four at St Johns Lake February 2nd and 21st, five at Carrick Roads February 15th, five in St Austell Bay February 19th and nine at Lynher Estuary February 28th. Most birds had left by the end of March but a few lingered into April and May. These included a single at Crowdy until May 10th, two at Stithians May 28th to 31st and one at Loe Pool June 13th. First return birds were two at Tamar Estuary August 16th followed by three at Lynher Estuary August 28th to September 16th. As usual autumn and second winter reports were fewer but included two at Gcnans Bay October 10th. Apparently overwintering birds were five at Lynher Estuary, one or two at St Johns Lake, two at St Austell Bay and one at Lower Tamar Lake.

RED-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps grisegna

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant (mainly spring). Most are noted in the sheltered south coast bays particularly between Par and Falmouth. The most regular sites on the north coast are St Ives Bay and Camel Estuary. Veryan Bay: two overwintering birds were noted regularly here and at Gerrans Bay until mid February when there was an increase to three on 14th and six at the latter locality on 18th. After this date there were no more than two which were last noted April 4th. There was also one October 22nd. RL.PAM.SJC.CCB. Looe: one January 17th and February 8th. Two February 21st and 22nd. SCM. RWG. Carbis Bay: one January 17th to 31st. Two February 3rd. CCB.MRAB.JH. St Johns Lake: one January 18th to February 2nd. Another February 4th. NJC.RWG.SCM.et al. St Austell Bay: singles January 23rd to 25th, February 8th, March 2nd to 5th, May 29th and December 19th to 23rd RL. : two January 28th CCB

17 Penlee Point: one February 7th RWG Camel Estuary: one February 7th to 11th PGA.ML.SMC.DL. Mounts Bay: one February 10th PRW. Helford Estuary: one February 14th to 21st, three March 14th to 22nd SB.DL. GRW.MW. Lynher Estuary: one February 28th RWG. Mevagissey: one March 2nd RL, one December 27th to 30th RL. Dozmary Pool: juvenile September 10th to 28th JAdEM et al. Stithians Reservoir: one September 15th and 16th GHT et al. Par Beach Pool: one December 18th to 20th RL. Several other reports received lacking sufficient detail.

SLAVONIAN GREBE - Podiceps auritus

Winter visitor and passage migrant (mainly spring). 1987 was an average year with records in the first half of the year from twelve sites on the south coast, seven on the north coast and one inland. The second half of the year produced records from twelve sites on the south coast, three on the north coast and two inland. Although few had been reported at the end of 1986 many more were noted at the beginning of this year. Four birds overwintered at St Austell Bay and Camel Estuary, whilst four at Veryan Bay had increased to nine January 3rd. There was also ten at Gerrans Bay the same day. Towards the end of January there was a substantial influx as birds became displaced by the freeze. Most remained throughout February and there were still good numbers in March. Last was one at Carrick Roads April 12th. Significant numbers included 14 in St Austell Bay January 23rd to February 11th increasing to 17 February 19th and March 21st. Elsewhere there were 12 at Gerrans Bay January 31st and February 21st, 11 at Veryan Bay February 11th, 10 at Carrick Roads January 28th and four at Mounts Bay February 18th. North coast records concerned mainly singles but there were six at St Ives Bay January 31st, four at Carnsew Pool February 3rd and ten at Camel Estuary February 14th. Apart from a single inland at Lower Tamar Lake January 9th there were no reports north of the Camel Estuary. First in autumn was one at Pentewan October 7th and possibly the same bird in St Austell Bay the following day. There were several reports of ones and twos to the end of the year. Larger concentrations included five at Veryan Bay November 21st, six at Carbis Bay December 19th and seven at St Austell Bay December 19th/20th. Overwintering into 1988 were singles at Lyner Estuary, St Austell Bay and Camel Estuary with two each at Looe and Mevagissey. Inland there were singles at Stithians Reservoir December 5th into 1988 and Crowdy Reservoir December 20th in 1988.

BLACK-NECKED GREBE - Podiceps nigricollis

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Like the other grebes and the divers, most appear off the south coast with the main wintering area between Dodman and Carrick Roads. Once again several reports omitted owing to lack of documentation. Gerrans Bay: two January 3rd, three February 3rd and two February 19th RL. Carrick Roads: three January 3rd, up to four January 31st to February 21st, three February 28th and one March 4th RL.GRW.MW. et al. Mounts Bay: one January 20th to 30th, two March 14th to 29th with one to April 12th CCB.PWA.RIA.BP.et al. Also one December 6th CCB. Argal Reservoir: one February 10th to 12th SMC.BTSC.RS.ADS. Camel Estuary: one February 10th to 12th PGA. Veryan Bay: three February 28th RL.

18 St Ives Bay: one March 4th CCB. Stithians Reservoir: one March 22nd to April 9th CNT.MCT.FHH et al. Crowan Reservoir: one August 31st to September 4th DJC.BRF. et al. Dozmary Pool: two September 7th - 14th with one September 28th and October 6th JAdEM et al. Loe Pool: one September 26th JSC AH. Drift Reservoir: one December 31st CCB.

FULMAR - Fulmarus glacialis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. First bred in Cornwall in 1944 and has subsequently colonised the entire coast of the county. The best time to census breeding success is at the end of the summer after adults have left ledges to moult, leaving well grown young to fend for themselves. For breeding records see Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987 (pages 113 - 121) and Breeding Seabird Survey 1985 in Birds in Cornwall 1985 (pages 125 - 145). Passage in the first winter period was very light and no large numbers were noted until late March when there were 300 per hour flying west off Mevagissey March 26th and 400 per hour flying west off Newquay March 27th. Autumn passage was also light, the only report of note concerning a total of 169 west off Porthgwarra between July 30th and August 1st. October records are rare and this year was no exception, a single off St Ives on 6th followed by three on 8th and one off Newquay the same day were the only reports. First post-moult bird was one off Trevose Head November 7th. In December 250 off Newquay December 30th was by far the largest number. Unusual were a 'blue phase' bird off Newquay January 1st SMC.BTSC. and one flying overland at Holmbush, St Austell August 6th RL.

CORY'S SHEARWATER - Calonectris diomedea

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) with occasional 'good' years. RMV Scillonian: four July 20th DFS, three August 20th RBd.DTF. Porthgwarra: singles August 19th RBd and 20th MAG, three August 28th MAG. Mevagissey: one west October 18th RL. , The Lizard: one west October 18th ARP. Several other reports with inconclusive or no description. Inexperienced observers should be made aware of the possible confusion with distant Fulmars.

GREAT SHEARWATER - Puffinus gravis

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). There are only two spring records for Cornwall. Pendeen: one west July 19th MAG. RMV Scillonian: six August 20th RBd.DTF. Porthgwarra: one August 21st RBd.JH., two September 6th PAM and one October 18th DR. St Ives: one west September 3rd HWW.

SOOTY SHEARWATER - Puffinus griseus

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly late summer and autumn). Occasional good years. Pendeen: noted on seven dates July 19th to September 23rd. Total of 40 birds with maximum of 20 on first date.

19 St. Ives: noted on 12 dates July 28th to November 12th. Total of 235 birds with maximum of 51 July 28th, 49 July 29th, 30 July 31st and 69 October 6th. Porthgwarra: noted on 11 dates July 30th to October 18th. Total of 80 birds with maximum of 42 September 6th. Rame Head: three September 4th, one September 5th and eleven September 12th. Kenidjack: two September 5th. RMV Scillonian: two September 5th and October 12th. Newquay: two September 6th, one September 12th and four October 8th. Mevagissey: one September 11th, two October 18th. Lizard: 20 September 12th, one October 18th. Trevose Head: one September 23rd. Praa Sands: two September 24th. : two October 13th. Rosemullion Head: three October 18th.

MANX SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus

Passage migrant (mainly mid March to October). Feeding parties in summer presumably from breeding colonies on the islands off the coast of South Wales. In the first winter period two were reported flying south off Porthleven January 11th JSCJ. The first for spring was one off March 4th but there was no more until late March. Heavy passage was reported during mid April and continued to be fairly pronounced through May and June. Large feeding parties were noted off the north coast during late July and early August but later records were very sparse. Maximum numbers: Bude: 660 April 19th, 500 June 20th. Newquay: 300 (one hour) April 20th, 500 July 27th and 1000 August 2nd. St Agnes: 5000 per hour west April 22nd. Rumps Point: 500 May 2nd, 400 July 26th. Porthgwarra: 361 May 25th, 1000 July 30th and 410 August 1st. Rame Head: 400 east May 25th, 343 June 6th. St Ives: 400 M hour) May 30th, 1000 August 1st and 570 September 14th. Porthleven: 364 (3/4 hour) July 9th. Pendeen: 500 July 19th and 3000 (4 hours) July 24th. Trevose Head: 1350 (V/i hours) August 15th. In November there was a single off Trevose Head on 10th, two off Rame Head on 12th and a single off St Ives the same day. Last were two off St Ives on 22nd.

BALEARIC SHEARWATER - Puffinus puffinus mauretanicus

The Western Mediterranean race of Manx Shearwater. Status is currently under review and seems likely to be recognised as a full species in the near future. Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn but often quite late in the year). St Ives: two west January 2nd DSF.MK. In autumn noted on 13 dates between July 28th and November 22nd. Total of 68 birds with maximum of nine July 28th, ten July 29th, eight August 1st, 18th October 6th and eight October 8th. RMV Scillonian: five July 20th. Portreath: one August 16th. Porthgwarra: Noted on seven dates between August 18th and October 7th. Total of 29 birds with maximum of five August 19th and 17 September 6th. Pendeen: one August 22nd. Rame Head: singles September 5th and 12th.

20 Newquay: one September 6th, four October 8th. Bass Point, The Lizard: three September 12th.

STORM PETREL - Hydrobates pelagicus

Uncommon passage migrant. Small feeding parties in summer (mainly north coast). Breeding has not been proved in the county for at least twenty years. The usual small parties were noted feeding on sewage effluent in Newquay Bay during the summer and there was a heavy passage, along the south coast, of birds displaced by the October hurricane. Newquay: noted May 30th to June 27th. Total of 20 birds with maximum of 12 June 6th. Pendeen: one July 24th. Porthgwarra: one July 26th, ten July 31st, 246 October 18th. St Ives: noted July 28th to October 8th. Total of nine birds with never more than two together. Portreath: During summer up to five at a time attracted to 'chumming' ten miles out RM. Downderry: Small numbers reported offshore throughout summer by fisherman. Favoured feeding area appears to be one mile off Murraytown. One report con­ cerned about 50 birds in June SCM. RMV Scillonian: eight August 20th, six October 10th, one October 17th. Rumps Point: one October 8th. Mevagissey: 135 October 18th. Rosemullion Head: 268 October 18th. Bass Point, The Lizard: 191 October 18th, seven October 19th. Pentewan: five October 19th. Church Cove, The Lizard: one October 19th. Penzance: one found dead in the town October 18th.

LEACH'S PETREL - Oceanodroma leucorhoa

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn) and generally occurring a little later than Storm Petrel. All but two of this years' birds were casualties of the October hurricane. The Newquay record is the latest ever county record - the previous latest being one off St Ives on 22nd December 1969. St Ives: one October 8th MO. Looe: nine October 18th, seven October 19th RWG (strangely there were no Storm Petrels noted here on either day). Rosemullion Head: two October 18th BC. Porthgwarra: five October 18th GPC.DH.DR. Pentewan: one October 19th RL. Bass Point: five October 19th DSF. Newquay: one December 31st SMC. Petrel Sp. Petrels not specifically identified were noted as follows: Porthgwarra: two August 16th, eight August 18th, six August 19th and four August 21st. RMV Scillonian: four August 20th. St Ives: three September 4th.

GANNET - Sula bassana

Passage migrant. Winter and summer visitor.

21 Noted off both coasts throughout the year. Bred on Gulland Island until at least 1478 but nearest present day breeding colony is on Grassholm, Pembrokeshire. First winter records included 200 in Carbis Bay January 11th, 300 west off Cligga Head January 18th and 600 west off Newquay January 31st. In spring there were 200 off Newquay March 27th and 350 there April 20th, 100 per hour passed Mevagissey March 26th, 470 flew past Lizard Point in 3 hours April 9th and 500 per hour off St Agnes April 20th. Summer movements were unexceptional and autumn passage was again light. Maximum numbers included 290 off Porthgwarra August 1st, 300 off Pendeen August 22nd, 500 off St Ives October 8th and 300 per hour west at Pendeen October 13th. The species seemed little affected by the October hurricane, the only 'wrecked' bird being one flying downstream at Restronguet October 18th. No large numbers were reported in the second winter period.

CORMORANT - Phalacrocorax carbo

Resident. Breeds in small numbers at a number of sites on both coasts. Occurs on all of the reservoirs and most other large freshwater pools at one time or another. For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987' (pages 113 - 121) and Breeding Seabirds Survey in 'Birds in Cornwall 1985' (pages 125 - 145). 1987 proved to be an exceptionally good year for this species with some of the highest counts on record. They included 100 at Looe Island July 28th, 55 at Gunwalloe September 7th, 50 at Bude September 10th, 50 at Loe Bar October 11th, 50 at Camel Estuary November 9th and a massive 200/300 on the Tamar Estuary between Tamar Bridge and Clifton on September 25th JAdEM et al. The highest inland totals were 15 at Argal Reservoir January 13th and 13 at Colliford Reservoir July 21st. Roosts were located at Turnaware, Carrick Roads where up to 40 birds regularly roost on sandstone; Loe Pool where eight were present in a dead Elm tree January 25th and at the traditional tree site at Malpas. There were no records from the Egloshayle and Polbrock roosts of 1986. There was no substantiated claim of birds of the continental race P.c. sinensis but white-headed birds, probably old males of the nominate race P.c. carbo were noted at St Anthony (three February 28th), Marazion (March 8th) and Carrick Roads (March 17th).

SHAG - Phalacrocorax aristotelis

Resident. Breeds on both coasts. Passage migrant. Very rare inland. For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1987 (pages 113 - 121) and Breeding Seabirds Survey (Birds in Cornwall 1985 pages 125 - 145). Additional records for 1987 not included in the survey are twelve pairs between Trevone and Stepper Point, nine nests at Gurnards Head and up to 16 young seen at The Gew, Helford. Only one large flock was noted in the first half of the year but there were the usual autumn flocks. Newquay: 75 February 18th, 80 September 5th and 15th. St Austell Bay: 90 July/August. Veryan Bay: 300 September 27th. St Ives: 95 west October 8th. Godrevy: 307 October 10th. : 106 October 23rd. After the record in 1986 of a bird showing characteristics of the Mediterranean race P.a. desmarestii, an immature was noted flying west off St Ives this year on October 8th DSF.

22 BITTERN - Botaurus stellaris

A rare winter visitor occurring mainly between late November and early March. Most occurrences relate to birds displaced by cold weather in western Europe and further north in the U.K. Occurs as an occasional passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Records since 1981 have been much more numerous than in the previous twenty years. Porth Reservoir: one January 15th to 17th SMC.BTSC et al. Drift Reservoir: one January 24th to 31st MRAB et al. Marazion Marsh: at least two January 25th to 31st with one to February 22nd and probably the same March 16th MCT.GRW.MW.et al. Polgreen, St Mawgan: one February 2nd to March 4th REW. St Martin, The Lizard: one March 10th RB. Little Nanteague, Allet: one March 19th AJP.

LITTLE BITTERN - Ixobrychus minutus

Rare vagrant (mainly spring). Very much a speciality of The Lizard area. There have been no records away from the Falmouth/Stithians/Lizard area since 1965. The following is the 19th county mainland record and the first since 1983. Kuggar, The Lizard: one picked up dying March 27th. Now mounted and on display at County Museum. RDP.SMC.

NIGHT HERON - Nycticorax nycticorax

Rare vagrant (mainly spring). The following is the 15th county mainland record. The last was in 1985. Near Penzance: adult April 27th Mr and Mrs D.G. Griffin. CCB. Accepted by BBRC.

23 LITTLE EGRET - Egretta garzetta

Rare passage migrant (mainly spring). Occasionally overwinters. The impetus of recent years has been maintained and there have now been records in eight consecutive years. The possibility of breeding, whilst remote, should not be overlooked. Systematic checking of heronries, particularly on the south coast, might one day prove rewarding. Hayle Estuary: one April 22nd DSF et al. and one May 29th JH. Camel Estuary: one May 1st SJ.PW. Marazion Marsh: one May 10th LPW. St Johns Lake: adult June 13th RWG, one, probably a juvenile, August 9th to 16th. RWG.AHJH. Restronguet: one August 30th NHWW. : one September 7th to 20th RL.GHT.RLL.LML.et al. The Hayle Estuary, St Johns Lake and Restronguet birds accepted by BBRC.

GREY HERON - Ardea cinerea

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Breeding was reported at the following heronries (with comparative numbers of nests for 1983 to 1986).

1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 Percuil 9 2 5 n.c. 3 Borlase Wood, Philleigh 6? 3 6 n.c. n.c. Lambe Creek, Malpas 12 6 10 5 + n.c. Polwheveral, Helford 10+ n.c. 3+ n.c. n.c Marazion Marsh 7 6 6 1/2 3 Camel Estuary n.c. 14 10/12 n.c. 9/10

At St Just in Roseland a pair reared three young, constituting the first breeding record in 13 years observation here by LSP.EMP. (Historically, odd pairs have bred sporadically at a number of different sites on the Fal complex). No reports were received from the heronries at East Looe River, Fowey Estuary and Merthen, Helford Estuary. None were proved breeding on but not all potential sites were visited. JAdEM suspects that there may be a heronry in the area to the east of a line drawn from to along either the valley of the River Penpont or the River Inny and possibly in the Lewannick area. The woods growing on the escarpment to the west of North Hill are another potential site. The largest gatherings reported included 30 at Lynher Estuary January 11th, 24 at Fowey Estuary June 6th (suggesting that the herony was well occupied), 27 at Restronguet October 25th and 22 at Camel Estuary November 2nd.

PURPLE HERON - Ardea purpurea

Vagrant (mainly spring). Retallack: an adult April 18th to 26th. PAM et al.

The 14th county mainland record and the second at this site in four years.

SPOONBILL - Platalea leucorodia Rare passage migrant. Occasionally overwinters, especially on the Lynher Estuary. The following records are the first away from the Lynher Estuary since 1983. Prob­ ably no more than four birds involved in all of this year's sightings. Camel Estuary: three juveniles October 14th to 19th PJD.EGe.JW. et al.

24 Hayle Estuary: three October 20th and 21st, one October 31st to November 22nd. JT.DSF.EGG.DJC. et al. Bude: immature October 30th IK, three immatures November 1st to 8th. GPS. TJD.BTC.

Gwithian: immature November 28th.

MUTE SWAN - Cygnus olor Resident. Breeds. Moulting herds in autumn. Winter visitor. There has been evidence of a decline in recent years and a shift in moulting area. Whereas formerly the largest moulting herd occurred at St Johns Lake, Looe now appears to be the favoured area with an increasing number also at Restronguet. Reservoir records, apart from at Stithians, are unusual. Successful breeding was reported from: (with number of young in parenthesis) Millbrook (two pairs - eight young), Par Pool (eight), Par River (six), St Andrews Pool, Par (two), Caerhays (five), Ruan Lanihorne (seven), Stithians Reservoir (three pairs but only one successful - five), Pendarves Nature Reserve six), Helston Boating Lake (six), Helston Amenity Area (seven), Camel Estuary eight) and Bude (two). Other nests were noted at Lynher Estuary, East Looe River, St Just in Roseland (abandoned) and Swanpool. Maximum numbers reported during the year included: Looe: 38 January 1st, 42 September 20th, 52 October 1st, 33 December 26th. Camel Estuary: 16 January 1st, 18 October 19th, 19 November 4th. Hayle Estuary: 18 January 16th, 21 October 18th, 29 November 16th, 27 December 1st. Loe Pool: 15 flew south January 31st, 14 February 2nd and March 14th. Restronguet: 7 January 18th, 23 October 17th, 33 November 1st. Mevagissey: 16 February 4th to 9th. Falmouth: 21 June 12th, 20 August 8th. St Johns Lake: 9 January 18th to February 15th, 24 November 22nd. Unusual reports included two at Porth Reservoir January 15th to February 2nd, 15 at Drift Reservoir January 31st (same as Loe Pool birds?), seven flying south at Rinsey Head July 4th and a single flying west at Boswednack July 5th. Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County totals 104 80 114 110 61 90 80 St Johns Lake 4 nc 18 8 nc 6 6 Looe 42 nc 29 33 nc 28 27 Ruan Lanihorne 4 2 4 8 4 4 4 Restronguet 2 16 3 2 - - Loe Pool 11 6 -6 5 8 4 4 Hayle/Copperhouse 5 24 29 24 9 14 12

BEWICK'S SWAN - Cygnus columbianus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. The last good year was 1983 Drift Res: adult Jan 31st MRAB.JD. Hayle Estuary: one February 15th to April 6th. JH.DSF.DL et al. Tamar Estuary: two adults March 8th AHJH. Upper Tamar Reservoir: three October 10th KS. Maer Lake, Bude: adult December 5th into 1988 GPS.TJD.

WHOOPER SWAN - Cygnus cygnus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant.

25 The best year since 1981, although many records such as the Hayle Estu- ary/Reskajeage and Hayle Kimbro/Loe Pool/Helston birds undoubtedly refer to the same individuals. Ruan Lanihorne: eight (five adults and three immatures) mid January to mid February GCJ. Lower Tamar Lake: two February llth/12th GPS. Upper Tamar Reservoir: three flew over February 16th, four flew over March 12th KS. Hayle Estuary: two adults October 11th. PC.DL.AHJH.GHT. Reskajeage: two adults October 16th to 23rd were joined by a third October 24th to 27th. CNT et al. Nanjizal: adult flew northwest October 22nd DSF. MLm. Copperhouse: three flew west November 17th CNT. Hayle Kimbro Pool: adult November 19th to 22nd and December 9th. RB.EGe. ARP. Loe Pool: adult November 28th to December 6th and December 19th into 1988 JSG. Helston Park Lake: adult December 18th and 26th KH et al.

WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE - Anser albifrons

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Most birds occurring in Cornwall are of the Eurasian race 'A.a.albifrons' but small numbers of the Greenland race 'A.a. flavirostris' occasionally occur. The species was formerly more common with a regular wintering flock at Walmsley Sanctuary from 1935 to 1973. The size of the flock peaked at an average of c.100 in the 1960's but since 1973 birds have become very irregular here with none since 1982. Ironically, a gaggle of 84 on January 17th of that year was the largest at the Sanctuary for many years. The reasons for this local decline are not fully understood and have not been properly investigated. A number of factors are probably involved but the two most popular theories are probably the two most relevant. The first relates to the series of mild winters in the 1970's and early 1980's which resulted in fewer white-fronts being forced into the far west with a subsequent loss of 'homing' instinct. The second, probably more valid theory, concerns the change in the botanical make-up of the Sanctuary and adjacent Amble Marshes as a result of the damming and straightening of the River Amble. Initially the effect was minimal but persistent dredging of the river bed has resulted in a substantial lowering of the water table. There has thus been a gradual drying-up of the Sanctuary which has been further compounded by a lack of flooding by saltwater in recent years. Sluice gates installed in ditches on the Sanctuary were originally opened at regular intervals in order to maintain a degree of salinity in the marshes but the recent lack of salt water invasion has resulted in an apparently irrevocable change in the ecology of the Sanctuary and it seems highly unlikely that the White-fronted Goose will ever regularly winter here in good numbers again. Lynher Est: adult 'albifrons' January 7th to February 7th AHJH.SCM.NJC.RWG. Maer Lake, Bude: one flew over October 22nd. four December 5th into 1988 IK.GPS.TJD. Trevose Head: adult 'flavirostris' Oct 24th SMC.LW. Marazion Marsh: one Dec 12th CCB.

GREYLAG GOOSE - Anser anser

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Many birds are undoubtedly feral escapes or wanderers. Most records are of the Western race 'A. a. anser' but the Eastern race 'A. a. rubirostris' also occurs occasionally. Camel Est: one May 29th DL.JAdEM.

26 SNOW GOOSE - Anser caerulescens

Rare vagrant. Feral populations exist in several areas of the U.K. and may account for Cornish records. Beeny Cliff, Boscastle: two white birds October 19th to 23rd BTC. R.B. Treleaven etal.

CANADA GOOSE - Branta canadensis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Prior to 1983, apart from odd migrants, the species was almost exclusively confined to South East Cornwall and prior to 1973 there was an annual average of just one bird per year. The species first bred on Bodmin Moor in 1983, since when there has been an alarming increase. There is much interchange between the waters of East and and one wonders how long it will be before the species becomes established farther west in the county. In 1987 a pair bred at Crowdy Reservoir where six young were first noted May 19th, at Colliford Reservoir where five young were seen June 16th and at Fleardon Farm, near Launceston. Max no's. Lynher Est: 50 January 7th. 9 November 28th into 1988 Upper Tamar Reservoir: 35 January 16th, then no more records until two April 11th. 39 August 26th (almost certainly from Crowdy Reservoir), 44 September 21st, 61 October 22nd and 70 into 1988. Colliford Reservoir none early in the year but two March 15th and low numbers throughout summer. 17 July 21st and 14 October 28th. Crowdy Reservoir 22 February 24th with lesser numbers to 26 June 20th and 33 July 7th. Peak of 40 August 23rd then no more records until 22 October 22nd followed by an increase in November to a maximum of 51 on 28th. Other reports included four at Polridmouth January 21st and three there January 29th, three flying east at Dobwalls March 8th, singles at Helston March 13th, Trevorrian March 14th, Maer Lake April 11th and Camel Estuary March 10th. At the last locality there were three April 12th and four April 25th. Two flew southeast at Rame Head May 27th and 18 flew west at Trevalga June 18th.

BARNACLE GOOSE - Branta leucopsis

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Most records probably refer to birds which have escaped from wildfowl collections, notably The Wildfowl Trust refuge at Slimbridge. The large gaggle at Godrevy may well have been genuinely wild birds. Crowdy Reservoir: one June 24th BTC Upper Tamar Reservoir: three October 5th to 22nd with two remaining into 1988. IK.KS. Godrevy: 17 flew north October 10th PAR

(At St Johns Lake a pinioned bird was noted June 10th to 14th AHJH. RWG.)

BRENT GOOSE - Branta bernicla Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Both dark-bellied (B.b. bernicla) and light-bellied (B.b. hrota) races have been recorded in increasing numbers since 1981. In 1987, most occurred during the January freeze. Very few remained into February and numbers in the autumn and second winter period were low. Dark-bellied birds were reported as follows

27 Par: one from 1986 noted January 1st. two January 24th Bude: singles January 3rd and December 4th/6th. Millbrook: one January 11th, two December 28th Loe Pool: one January 11th Hayle Estuary: 14 January 31st, two October 30th with one to November 11th and another December 8th to 17th. St Johns Lake: two January 16th to February 1st, singles February 7th, October 4th and November 22nd. five December 10th. Lynher Estuary: three January 17th Looe: two January 17th to February 1st Camel Estuary: two January 17th to February 3rd, singles March 9th to 14th and December 4th/6th. Whitsand Bay: 15 flew east January 18th. Gwithian: nine January 19th/21st, ten January 22nd St Mawes: 11 January 20th. North Cliffs: singles January 22nd/24th and December 6th Ruan Lanihorne: two January 30th, three October 11th. Mounts Bay: two January 31st, one October 30th to November 8th. Carlyon Bay: five February 5th Tamar Estuary: a tame or injured bird April 6th. Carrick Roads: one October 9th. : one November 8th. Gunwalloe: one November 25th. Percuil: one December 7th. St Ives: 23 flew northeast December 12th. Light-bellied birds were reported as follows: Camel Estuary: two January 17th to February 3rd. RJT.DFK.ML.SMC.PGA. Newquay: two January 31st SMC Penryn: four October 8th JC Truro River: four October 17th PAM Bude: three flew south November 12th IK. A bird at Hayle Estuary. May 4th to 15th, reported as a Black Brant (B.b. nigricans) has been pended by B.B.R.C. It is thought that it may merely be an aberrant dark-bellied bird and any information, including photographs would be useful.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE - Alopechen aegyptiacus

Rare visitor. Feral escape. Occurs as a feral species in the U.K., mainly in East Anglia but with small populations elsewhere including East Devon. A total of 11 birds were recorded in Cornwall between 1841 and 1878 but there were no further published records until 1981. One was reported in that year and subsequently there has been one in 1982, two in 1984 and one in 1985. (All have been listed under 'Exotica' in the relevant Report.) Par: one August 17th to 27th SMC.RL.JAdEM. Camel Estuary: four August 25th to early December but only one December 21st into 1988 REW.SMC.ML.RS.PC. et al. Shortly after the departure of the three Camel Estuary birds, three were noted at Plymouth. None of the birds was ringed and all were free-flying. Hybrid goose Lynher Estuary: Snow x Barnacle February 15th to 24th RWG.AHJH. Colliford: probable Canada x Greylag May 8th to August 23rd. AHJH.JAdEM. Goose sp.

Ruan Lanihorne: two October 12th RL.

RUDDY SHELDUCK - Tadorna ferruginea

Vagrant, but most, if not all, are probably escapes from wildfowl collections.

28 Like Egyptian Goose, there has been an upsurge in records in recent years. Previous county mainland records were in 1892, 1942, 1975 (5), 1977, 1984 (3), 1985 (2) and 1986. Camel Estuary: one occurred with a big influx of Shelduck January 14th/15th. ML.PGA.

SHELDUCK - Tadorna tadorna

Resident. Breeds. Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeding reports were received from: (number of young in parenthesis). Lynher Estuary (9), St Johns Lake (two pairs - 12), Fowey Estuary (eight), Ruan Lanihorne (3+ broods - 20), Tresillian (eight), Truro (eight, but these may have been the Tresillian birds), Devoran (one), Hayle Estuary (broods of 11 and 9), Gwithian (seven), Colliford (three) and Camel Estuary (broods of three and eight). A pair was present at Upper Tamar Lake during May but breeding was not proved. There was a large influx in mid January with sizeable flocks on most estuaries. The vast majority remained well into March with some good numbers still present in April. Very few were noted in the second winter period until the last ten days of December. Max no's: Lynher Estuary: 318 January 24th St Johns Lake: 475 January 24th - thus giving a combined total of almost 800 in the area. 450 February 2nd, 404 March 14th, 209 April 11th and 280 December 31st. Millbrook: 500 January 27th and 400 March 27th, no doubt included the majority of the St Johns Lake birds. Camel Estuary: 330 January 17th, 325 February 10th, 278 March 12th, 100 May 4th and 96 November 30th. Hayle Estuary: 148 January 18th, 86 March 1st to 15th. Truro River: 169 January 18th, 170 January 23rd, 143 February 15th, 180 March 11th to 17th, 94 December 20th Ruan Lanihorne: 228 April 26th. Unusual reports included 15 at Stithians Reservoir January 25th, two at Porth Reservoir January 28th and four at Drift Reservoir February 10th. A corpse found at Trevose Head January 21st had been eaten by a Peregrine.

Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

County totals 31 18 71 385 226 445 491 St Johns Lake 7 nc 30 200 nc 170 200 Tresillian/Truro 7 - 14 91 104 122 137 Hayle/Copperhouse 6 6 2 32 41 55 42

WIGEON - Anas penelope

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Until the mid January freeze flocks were exceptionally small. Even at Hayle Estuary, where there had been up to 1200 and at St Johns Lake where there had been 1250 at the end of 1986, significant reductions had occurred at the beginning of 1987. However the freeze brought several massive flocks into the county including 4000 at Camel Estuary - the largest single concentration since 5000 at St Johns Lake in 1980. Needless to say the vast majority had moved on by the end of the month and numbers remained low throughout February and March. Late spring birds included a drake at Hayle Kimbro until May 4th, a pair at Hayle

29 until June 4th and a drake at Crowdy Reservoir June 17th. First in autumn were 14 at Hayle Estuary August 16th. Very few were noted anywhere until October. Max no's: Hayle Estuary: 450 January 7th increased to 3300 January 18th but decreasing thereafter to 900 January 31st and only 500 February 1st. 364 October 4th increasing to 550 November 1st, 900 December 1st and 1000 December 31st. Camel Estuary: 80 January 9th increased to 2300 January 14th and 4000 January 17th/18th. Rapid decrease to 1100 January 24th and 350 February 5th. 55 November 30th, 132 December 31st. Argal Reservoir: 300 January 13th Colliford Reservoir: 295 January 16th, 134 December 13th. Loo Pool: 550 January 17th Lynher Estuary/St Johns Lake: 450 January 2nd, 2000 January 19th. 600 November 10th, 900 December 25th. Upper Tamar Reservoir: 2700 January 20th. Ruan Lanihorne: 1000 January 28th.

Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88.

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

County totals 92 555 1025 1547 1112 1018 203 St Johns Lake 60 nc 80 220 nc 450 Colliford Res. 1 2 10 134 154 92 -20 Ruan Lanihorne 20 22 82 170 75 210 32 Stithians Res. 15 35 77 202 163 129 Hayle/Copperhouse -11 500 744 863 660 76 - AMERICAN WIGEON - Anas americana

Rare vagrant. Hayle Estuary: the drake from 1986 remained to May 8th DSF et al.

GADWALL - Anas strepera

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Very few overwintered from 1986 but there was a sizeable influx in mid January, including a county record sized flock at Drift Reservoir. The highest single-day count was probably January 18th when c.140 birds were reported in the county. Last in spring were two at Marazion April 9th and first in Autumn was one at Colliford August 23rd. Second winter numbers were low. Regular reports in both winter periods were received for: Hayle Estuary: five at end of 1986 increased to eight by January 3rd. There was an influx to 22 on 16th and 34 on 18th. Most moved on quickly but seven remained February 25th. Two singles were noted in September and one to three November 12th/15th. 11 December 12th. Drift Reservoir: noted January 7th to February 23rd with max of 40 January 10th, 53 January 18th, 63 January 31st and 50 February 8th. 11 December 12th. Marazion Marsh: noted January 11th to April 9th with max of 20 January 16th, 11 January 31st and seven March 21st. Two or three October 4th to November 7th, 14 December 20th. Colliford Reservoir: up to four noted January 16th to February 15th. One August 23rd, four December 6th and six December 12th.

30 Loe Pool: seven January 18th to 31st with one to February 15th. Up to three September/November and five December 12th into 1988. Elsewhere in the first winter period the only other regular site was Camel Estuary where the species was noted until March 13th with a maximum of 11 January 17th to February 3rd. Other first winter maxima included eight each at Tamar Estuary and Stithians Res­ ervoir, six each at Upper Tamar Reservoir and Lower Tamar Lake, five at Helston and three each at Swanpool and Boscathnoe with smaller numbers at several other sites. In the second winter period no other site held more than one bird and the only other overwintering bird reported was one at Maer Lake, Bude.

Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County totals 1 4 5 38 20 11 6 Loe Pool 1 2 2 5 5 - Marazion Marsh - 2 - 7 4 -11 3 Drift Res. - - 11 _ 3 Hayle Est. - -2 11 5 - - - - TEAL - Anas crecca

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeding has been reported only very sporadically over the last twenty years and all records apart from one at Lamorran in 1970 have come from Bodmin Moor with Crowdy Reservoir the most regular site. Breeding was not proved in 1987 despite a pair being present here June 17th. As in 1985 there was a massive incursion in the mid January freeze, but the majority moved quickly through leaving low numbers into February. The last in spring were two at Skewjack May 22nd and the first in autumn was a very early drake at Par July 21st. Fair numbers moved through in mid September but most flocks were small until mid December. Maximum numbers: Lynher Estuary: 95 January 2nd. 180 December 12th St Johns Lake: 105 January 3rd, 135 January 25th, 50 April 21st. Maer Lake: 97 January 3rd. 165 December 8th. Hayle Estuary: 400 from 1986 increased to 690 January 11th and 875 January 18th. Only 250 remained February 1st. 145 October 20th, 215 November 16th and 455 December 12th. Tresillian: 124 January 11th Porth Reservoir: 140 January 15th. 62 October 3rd, 128 December 9th. Camel Estuary: 140 January 17th. 42 December 7th. Loe Pool: 420 January 18th. 350 December 12th, 150 December 28th. Truro River: 223 January 18th, 110 February 24th, 320 March 11th. 51 September 13th, 117 December 12th. Restronguet: 600 January 18th, 150 February 15th. 150 November 16th, 120 December 26th. Tamar Estuary: 200 January 18th. Ruan Lanihorne: 133 January 19th. 104 September 13th to October 11th. Colliford Reservoir: 63 January 21st, 90 February 15th. 89 September 13th, 60 December 13th. Crowdy Reservoir: 89 January 27th, 80 October 5th and December 31st. In the first winter period there were also 50/100 at Lamorran, Argal Reservoir, Hayle Kimbro Pool, Drift Reservoir and Upper Tamar Reservoir.

•

31 Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County totals 275 400 622 1424 1019 513 216 Colliford Res. 89 72 54 36 138 103 48 Ruan Lanihorne 104 120 51 60 58 26 25 Truro River 51 47 15 117 213 178 33 Loe Pool 4 12 75 350 55 22 67 Hayle/Copperhouse 20 145 215 455 252 87 - GREEN-WINGED TEAL - Anas crecca carolinensis

Vagrant. Drakes showing characteristics of the North American race of Teal are recorded annually in Cornwall. Stithians Reservoir: The bird noted 15th November 1986 remained into 1987 and was last seen February 21st MCT et al. The same or another returned December 21st FHH. Crowdy Reservoir: drake March 14th PGA.DJC. Colliford Reservoir: drake November 28th into 1988 BTC.AHJH. Loe Pool: first winter drake December 19th per BBRC. All accepted by BBRC. 1986

The drake first noted at Stithians Reservoir in 1985 was last reported May 17th.

MALLARD - Anas platyrhynchos

Resident. Breeds. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported from Crowan Reservoir, Croft Pascoe, Helford, Stithians Reservoir, Pentewan, Par, Upper Fowey Valley and Bodmin Moor. Although no estimates were made the species appeared to be present in normal numbers on Bodmin Moor and there were c.15 pairs in the Upper Fowey Valley. Surprisingly, numbers in the first winter period were generally lower than those for the second winter period. Most of the large flocks in the early part of the year were noted during the January freeze. There were the usual large flocks in autumn and several good concentrations in November/December. Maximum numbers: Upper Tamar Reservoir: 50 January 16th. 150 September 27th. Loe Pool: 300 January 17th. 156 September 13th. 200 December 18th. Par Pools: 123 January 18th. 78 October 20th. Camel Estuary: 112 January 18th. 65 October 25th. Crowdy Reservoir: 80 January 21st. 150 September 27th. 103 November 28th. Lynher Estuary: 85 January 25th. 226 November 10th. 280 December 2nd. Colliford Reservoir: 135 February 15th. 224 September 13th. 181 October 20th. Stithians Reservoir: 105 September 13th. Tamar Estuary: 270 December 19th. Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County totals 814 646 657 747 661 435 320 Sennen 105 29 95 77 76 53 33 Loe Pool 156 76 94 175 30 10 15 Stithians Res. 79 37 15 40 37 14 2 Par Pools 76 78 70 76 96 80 78 Colliford Res. 224 181 35 40 151 130 18

32 PINTAIL - Anas acuta

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Apart from feral releases the species has bred only once in Cornwall - in 1978. There has been a substantial decrease in the number of birds regularly wintering in the county in recent years. Had it not been for the freeze forcing good numbers into the county, the annual total for 1987 would probably have been at an all-time low. Most arrived January 12th to 16th and very few remained more than a few days. Last in spring were 31 at St Johns Lake March 14th and the first in autumn was one at Loe Pool September 14th. There was a light passage in mid October but exceptionally small numbers in the second winter period. Regular reports were received for: Lynher Estuary: noted until January 25th with maximum of 43 January 14th. Noted from October 23rd with maximum of 12 from December 5th into 1988. St Johns Lake: noted January 14th to March 14th with maximum of 33 January 25th and 39 February 7th. Camel Estuary: noted January 12th to 26th with maximum of 19 on the first date. Noted September 27th to October 19th (at least four birds) and two drakes December 31st. Hayle/Copperhouse: 19 January 16th, one January 18th and one November 5th. Loe Pool: 14 (eight drakes) January 17th, one January 18th, female September 14th and one or two December 19th to 25th. Colliford Reservoir: one or two January 25th to February 15th. Two females October 6th. Maer Lake, Bude: Two drakes February 5th, two females December 8th/9th. Elsewhere in the first winter period birds were noted at Looe (one), Trelissick (five), Argal Reservoir (five), Hayle Kimbro Pool (four), Marazion (14 January 14th and up to seven to January 31st), Drift Reservoir (one) and Porth Reservoir (one), whilst in autumn there was a single at Stithians Reservoir and 12 flew north at Godrevy October 10th.

GARGANEY - Anas querquedula

Scarce passage migrant with numbers fluctuating from year to year. Has bred on at least six occasions including three successive years 1981/83. Bass Point, The Lizard: two flew west May 25th JSG. Stithians Reservoir: one August 22nd to October 5th MSW.JAJ. et al. Loe Pool: two September 5th JSG.

Hayle Estuary: one September 22nd to October 25th DSF.AH.et al.

BLUE-WINGED TEAL - Anas discors

Rare vagrant. These three bring the county mainland total to 15 - all since 1976. Upper Tamar Reservoir: two (first year male and first year female) September 21st to 26th with one remaining to October 5th. IK.DJR.et al. Crowan Reservoir: female or immature September 21st to October 11th. SB.DL. MS. et al.

All accepted by BBRC.

SHOVELER - Anas clypeata Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Like Pintail, there has been a decline in the number of birds regularly wintering in the county. The only birds overwintering from 1986 were at Camel Estuary. There was a small influx January 11th to 18th but the majority had left again before the end of the month. There was a light spring passage in March and odd birds until the last at Marazion May 4th.

33 The first in autumn was a drake in eclipse plumage July 12th. There was a build up at Stithians during August and a small flock at Hayle Estuary in September, otherwise the species was very scarce until December. Surprisingly, despite the mild weather, more overwintered into 1988 than had done so the previous winter. Regular reports were received for: Camel Estuary: noted until February 18th with maximum of five January 7th. Stithians Reservoir: noted January 7th to February 23rd with maximum of four January 7th. Up to seven August 9th to 14th and one December 8th. Loe Pool: noted January 9th to February 21st with maximum of eight Janu­ ary 18th. Singles August 30th and November 5th, ten December 19th and nine December 20th. Marazion Marsh: noted January 11th to May 4th with maximum of 22 January 31st. Hayle Estuary: noted January 11th to March 15th with maximum of four January 18th. five September 19th. Par Pools: noted January 23rd to March 25th with maximum of four January 23rd to 31st. Three December 23rd into 1988. Hayle Kimbro Pool: noted January 25th to April 11th with maximum of seven February 4th. Maer Lake, Bude: noted November 26th into 1988 with maximum of six Decem­ ber 19th on. Elsewhere in the first winter period there were reports of one to three at; Lynher Estuary, Millbrook, St Johns Lake, Caerhays, Trelissick, Pendarves Nature Reserve, Croft Pascoe Pool and Walmsley Sanctuary. There was also nine at Gannel Estuary January 17th. In the second winter period there were singles at St Johns Lake and Porth Reservoir.

POCHARD - Aythya ferina

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Good numbers moved into the county in the January freeze, but as with so many other species, most moved through quite quickly. There was a light spring passage in mid March and a few remained into April. A long-staying female at Par summered for the second year. Very few were noted in autumn until mid September when there was a small influx, followed by another October 20th to November 3rd. With two exceptions, wintering flocks were small. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Upper Tamar Reservoir: 60 January 10th. 42 November 3rd. Argal Reservoir: 55 January 16th. Tamar Estuary: 55 January 17th. Loe Pool: 118 January 17th. 68 November 16th. 82 December 12th. Drift Reservoir: 106 January 18th. Marazion/Long Rock Pool: 90 January 20th. 24 December 13th. Porth Reservoir: 52 January 23rd. 23 December 7th. Millbrook: 62 January 24th. Colliford Reservoir: 100 January 25th. 130 February 27th. 158 March 15th. 52 November 16th. 120 December 13th. Par: 41 February 7th. Stithians Reservoir: 38 February 23rd. 85 November 17th. Smaller flocks were reported from all of the other reservoirs and many freshwater pools. Monthly wildfowl counts at the principal localities - winter 1987/88.

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County totals 18 66 196 304 335 273 126 Loe Pool 6 21 68 82 54 51 32

34 Stithians Res: - 7 9 2 75 18 18 Colliford Res. 5 21 52 103 144 157 74

RING-NECKED DUCK - Aythya collaris

Vagrant. Assuming that the first winter records relate to the same bird the county mainland total now stands at 26 - all since 1976. Drift Reservoir: the drake from 1986 was last reported March 14th. MCD.GAW.et al. Loe Pool: drake Apr 4th to 12th DSF.ARP.JSG. Drake Nov 9th into 1988 JSG et al Other reports received lacking description.

TUFTED DUCK - Aythya fuligula

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. Breeds almost annually at Crowdy Reservoir but very rarely at any other site. This year a pair reared three young at Crowdy and a pair reared five young at Colliford Reservoir. At the beginning of the year numbers were very low but many arrived January 11th to 18th as a result of the freeze. 100 plus were noted at Drift Reservoir and Swanpool where there was a site record January 23rd to February 1st BC. Numbers gradually dwindled throughout spring until a light passage March 13th to 19th. Autumn passage was slow until mid September but there was an excellent build-up at Stithians Reservoir during November. Second winter numbers were, as expected in the mild weather, on the low side. Maximum numbers: Porth Reservoir: 56 January 16th. 43 December 7th. Loe Pool: 50 January 17th and March 15th. 67 September 14th. 51 December 12th. Drift Reservoir: 105 January 18th. Argal Reservoir: 75 January 18th. 30 December 12th. Swanpool: 100 January 19th. 108 January 23rd to February 1st. Other sites attracting 25/50 birds in the first winter were Siblyback Reser­ voir, Colliford Reservoir and Stithians Reservoir, whilst Upper Tamar Reservoir attracted 25/50 in both winter periods. The monthly wildfowl counts at the principal localities - winter 1987/88.

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County totals 117 126 165 220 272 242 212 Loe Pool 67 46 50 51 65 58 56 Stithians Res. 30 34 38 13 44 18 47 Argal Res. - - 15 30 33 33 14 Porth Res. 6 15 18 43 28 24 21

SCAUP - Aythya marila

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Numbers fluctuate from year to year. For the third consecutive year records were widespread in the county in the first winter period. Most birds arrived January 14th to 25th and a total of c.56 birds was reported from 22 sites. Several stayed into February and there appeared to be a light spring passage involving c.8 birds March 7th to 15th. Last in spring was a drake at Stithians Reservoir April 12th and the first in autumn was a drake at the same locality July 6th.

35 A mere nine birds were reported in autumn and none in the second winter period. Regular reports and maximum numbers were: Lynher Estuary: drake from 1986 was joined by a second bird January 25th. Both stayed to February 17th. Hayle Estuary: one or two regular January 1st to 23rd. Marazion/Long Rock/Mounts Bay: noted January 11th to March 15th with a maximum of ten January 17th to 23rd. St Johns Lake: noted January 14th to March 15th with maximum of six January 14th. Camel Estuary: noted January 14th to March 7th with maximum of three January 18th. Par Pools: a drake January 16th to April 4th, but five February 11th. Noted October 11th to 24th with maximum of five October 11th. Millbrook: one or two January 18th to February 22nd. Other first winter maximum were five at Loe Pool, four at Mevagissey, three each at Porth Reservoir and Stithians Reservoir, two each at Percuil and Polurrian and singles at Siblyback, Colliford, Stenalees, Tresillian, Swanpool, Gannel Estuary and Upper Tamar Reservoir.

In the autumn there were singles at Stithians, Loe Pool and Colliford Reservoir.

EIDER - Somateria mollissima Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. A few 'summer'. A very good first winter and spring but very low numbers in autumn and second winter periods. Regular reports from: Camel Estuary: three from 1986 increased to six January 17th to 24th, then lower numbers to March 30th. Nine April 24th. St Austell Bay: drake from 1986 remained to March 8th. Up to three others noted January 4th to May 4th. Three December 6th. Porthleven: noted January 3rd to May 30th with maximum of nine March 1st. Four August 8th to September 12th. Nine December 6th and one into 1988. St Ives/Carbis Bay: noted January 11th to May 13th with maximum of nine March 27th. Six flew west August 1st, two October 10th to 21st and three December 24th/27th. Carrick Roads: six or seven regular January 23rd to April 2nd but 12 March 17th. Newquay Bay: noted February 2nd to April 30th with maximum of 10 on first date. Helford Estuary: two or three regular February 4th to March 22nd. Three November 17th to 21st. Pentewan: noted February 5th to April 16th with maximum of four February 12th. Single day sightings included two at Falmouth January 10th, seven at Mounts Bay January 10th, 10 flew east at Godrevy January 11th, one at Mevagissey January 19th, one at Harlyn Bay February 11th, five at Gunwalloe February 19th, with one here June 7th, one at Caerhays March 4th, one at Polzeath April 9th to May 3rd, one at Rame Head April 11th and one at Trevose Head October 24th.

LONG-TAILED DUCK - Clangula hyemalis

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. None had overwintered from 1986 and there was none in spring, but four in a two week period in November. Trevose Head: one flew west November 7th SMC. Penzance: one November 8th CCB. Bude: one flew west November 12th IK.

Portwrinkle: first winter drake November 20th to December 30th. SCM.RWG.

COMMON SCOTER - Melanitta nigra

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. A few 'summer1.

36 In the first winter period and spring there were reports from 23 sites, 13 on the south coast and ten on the north coast. In autumn and the second winter period there were reports from 14 sites, nine on the south coast and five on the north coast. Flocks were very small in the first winter, but there was a reasonable passage in spring, March 14th-May 31st. Autumn passage commenced early, in late June and reached a peak September 23rd/25th. At the end of the year there were large flocks at St Austell Bay and Gerrans Bay but very few elsewhere. Regular reports were received from: St Ives Bay: one January 23rd, ten flew west March 16th. Noted regularly Septem­ ber 2nd to November 21st. c.102 flew west with a peak of 20 November 1st. St Austell Bay: noted in every month with maximum of 16 February 10th, 25 June 21st, 45 November 28th, 60 December 6th to 23rd. Rame Head: noted on 15 dates April 4th to October 18th with maximum of 50 April 5th and 25 August 8th. Mevagissey: 25 flew east April 4th. Noted June 26th to August 16th with maximum of 50 on first date. Porthgwarra: noted on five dates June 22nd to July 31st with maximum of 26 on first date and 25 July 22nd. three October 7th c.95 birds involved. Bude: two west April 12th and noted on seven dates September 10th to December 7th. c.ll birds involved. Gerrans Bay: noted November 14th to the end of the year with maximum of 60/70 December 20th. The only other double-figure counts were ten flying south at Loe Bar January 11th, 20 at Penhale January 11th and 21 flying west at Pendeen September 24th.

SURF SCOTER - Melanitta perspicillata

Rare vagrant. This is the seventh county mainland record - previous records having occurred in 1845, 1867, 1906, 1983, 1984 and 1985. St Ives Bay: first year female April 4th and 17th LPW. Accepted by BBRC

1985 The Cot Valley bird was still present April 27th per MJR.

VELVET SCOTER - Melanitta fusca Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. The lowest annual total since 1978. None overwintered from 1986, one in February and only three in the latter half of the year. Falmouth: one flew west February 1st PAM. Porthleven: female October 27th to 30th RHP Maenporth: one November 8th RL. Newquay Bay: drake December 28th into 1988 DMY.SMC.BTSC et al. Other reports received lacking description.

GOLDENEYE - Bucephala clangula

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. In the first winter period and spring there were reports from 36 localities and in autumn and the second winter periods from 14 localities. Although numbers had been very low at the end of 1986 there was a substantial and widespread influx from about January 10th. Most arrived January 16th to 24th with many remaining throughout February. Peak days were January 16th when 99 birds were reported and January 31st when 101 birds were reported. Between dates the number varied between 72 and 87. In February the peak days were 15th when 90 were reported and 28th when 104 were reported. There appeared to be something of an exodus early in March with the county total down to eight March 10th. There was evidence of a widespread spring passage March 13th to 16th with a peak of 58 birds on the last date.

37 Last were four at Camel Estuary April 30th. The first in autumn was one at the same site October 15th. Only 13 birds were reported to the end of November and December totals were also exceptionally low. Double-figure counts were received from: Carrick Roads: 25 overwintered from 1986 and increased to 30 February 15th and 32 February 24th. Only five overwintered into 1988. Hayle Estuary: tenO January 2nd increased to 16 January 16th and 19 January 18th with 14 remaining to February 15th. four December 12th to 26th. Camel Estuary: four from 1986 increased to 30 January 14th. There were still 27 February 23rd and 32 March 1st and 14th. six December 6th. Stithians Reservoir: ten February 23rd, 16 March 13th, 20 March 22nd, 13 December 19th. Colliford Reservoir: 11 March 16th. five December 13th. In the first winter period 5/10 birds were also noted at St Johns Lake, Fowey Estuary, Percuil, St Just-in-Roseland, Tresillian, Malpas, Devoran, Argal Reser­ voir, Polurrian, Drift Reservoir and Upper Tamar Reservoir.

SMEW - Mergus albellus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Noted in every year since 1974 after a seven year gap. The moorland reservoirs at Siblyback and Colliford are the most regular sites and together with Dozmary Pool form a very important wintering area with birds moving from one water to another as circumstances dictate. This year there was a record first winter influx involving 35/40 birds after none had overwintered from 1986 and only one early in January. Most arrived January 11th to 17th but the peak day was January 23rd when 31 birds were reported. c.13 birds in the moorland area were very mobile between the various waters. Most left during the last week of February with only four reported during March. In the second winter there was a good-sized flock at Colliford in mid December. All brownheads unless stated otherwise. Siblyback Reservoir: one January 4th to 11th, eight January 17th, 11 Janu­ ary 25th, then up to ten sporadically to February 23rd and one March 29th. AHJH.RS.ML.et al. Colliford Reservoir: seven January 11th, then regular until February 22nd with maximum of ten January 25th and 13 February 8th. one March 8th to 15th. BTC.RJT.NFA.JAdEM. two December 6th, five December 12th, seven December 13th but only one on 21st. AHJH.RWG.PSC. et al. Dozmary Pool: seven January 11th (no doubt the same as the Colliford birds) and a single February 8th and 17th. SCM.GRW.MW.et al. Upper Tamar Reservoir: one January 13th, two January 16th and four February 1st to early March. TJD.KS.GPS. two redheads December 4th and two (one drake) December 6th GPS.KS. Camel Estuary: three January 14th to February 18th. PGA.ML.SMC. et al. Porth Reservoir: one January 15th to February 28th SMC.BTSC.EJC. et al. Drift Reservoir: one January 15th to February 28th CCB.JH. et al. Stithians Reservoir: one January 16th to March 4th SB.RM. et al. Tamar Estuary: one January 17th/18th PGA.PHA.PSC. Truro River: two drakes January 22nd. WARW. Tresillian: one January 24th to February 27th but two January 27th. MCT. WARW.RLL. LML. et al. Morval Estate, Looe: one January 25th RWG.SCM.

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER - Mergus serrator Winter visitor. Uncommon passage migrant. At least two thirds of the annual county total is reported from Carrick Roads. Birds gather to roost in the Roads off Turnaware Point and Loe Beach and disperse during the day to feed throughout the Fal complex.

38 In 1987 there were reports from 15 localities in the first winter period and spring and from 13 localities in autumn and the second winter. As usual, apart from the Carrick Roads flock, birds overwintering were scarce. Possibly due to its more estuarine habitat the species was evidently less affected by the freeze than many other wildfowl. There was a light spring passage in mid March with several birds remaining into April. In summer there was a female at Pentewan June 8th and a pair at Lynher Estuary June 13th to 20th. The first in autumn were single brownheads at Hayle Estuary October 7th and Helford Estuary October 10th, but only three more were reported before November 10th. Second winter flocks were about average. Regular reports were received for both winter periods for: Carrick Roads: noted until April 12th with maximum of 40 January 3rd, 45 January 31st to February 15th, 55 February 18th and 60 March 17th. Noted from November 20th with maximum of 42 December 4th and 40 December 31st. St Johns Lake: noted until March 21st with maximum of 10 January 14th and from November 14th with a maximum of three and two into 1988. Lynher Estuary: noted until June 20th with maximum of 14 February 15th to 17th and 10 March 15th. Noted from November 10th with maximum of seven into 1988. Camel Estuary: noted until April 18th with maximum of 10 February 2nd and from November 20th with maximum of four December 6th. Hayle Estuary: noted until April 25th with maximum of three January 16th to April 10th. Singles October 7th, November 27th and December 6th. Birds from the Carrick Roads roost were reported from several sites and included 25 at St Just-in-Roseland January 8th, 14 at Percuil January 25th and February 28th with 32 there December 5th. All other reports concerned one to four birds.

GOOSANDER - Mergus merganser

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Has become increasingly common in recent years and is a potential breeding species, particularly since odd pairs now nest annually in Devon. 1987 was another exceptionally good year but again not quite in the league of 1979 and 1985. Only one bird overwintered from 1986 but there was a small influx in mid January. Many of these birds moved on quickly but a few remained throughout February. Peak single day counts were January 11th with 18 and January 17th with 23. There was a light spring passage in mid March with the last at Crowdy Reservoir March 25th. In autumn there were two and in the second winter only one. Upper Tamar Reservoir: one from 1986 to January 8th, three February 1st into March. Drift Reservoir: noted January 7th to February 8th with maximum of five January 11th. Hayle Estuary: one January 7th. Siblyback Reservoir: one January 11th, two January 25th. Loe Pool: four January 11th, six January 13th (seven plus birds involved). Mounts Bay: four January 11th and two January 17th. Lower Tamar Lake: four January 13th to February 8th, one March 14th/15th. Porth Reservoir: Up to three regular January 15th to 25th. Camel Estuary: noted January 16th to February 5th with maximum of five January 16th. Argal Reservoir: three January 16th with two remaining to February 12th and two March 13th. Colliford Reservoir: four January 17th. Marazion Marsh: four January 17th, one January 24th. Lynher Estuary: five January 22nd.

39 Stithians Reservoir: three January 24th, two January 26th with one February 23rd. Crowdy Reservoir: noted January 27th to March 25th with maximum of seven January 27th, ten February 24th and seven March 20th. Near Bodmin: pair March 21st. Trevorrian Pool: two October 14th. Boscastle: one December 19th/20th. Other reports received lacking description.

RUDDY DUCK - Oxyura jamaicensis

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. This species had not been recorded in Cornwall prior to 1977, but there has been records in every year since. Loe Pool: female January 17th to February 7th JSG.EGe.GRW.MW. Female/im­ mature November 28th JSC

Stithians Reservoir: two November 10th to 14th CNT.

HONEY BUZZARD - Pernis apivorus

Rare passage migrant (mainly spring). 1987 was a relatively poor year for this species - the annual average since 1981 has been five birds with a peak of nine in 1981. Breeding has occurred for at least eight years in Devon and could conceivably occur in Cornwall in the future. Kennack Sands: one flew west May 17th SB. Trevail: one October 25th EGG.GG. (A similar looking bird was seen leaving Lundy Island that same morning). RED KITE - Milvus migrans

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Rumours persist of single birds summering in apparently suitable breeding habitat and the possibility of breeding in the future should not be overlooked. The annual average since 1981 has been four birds with a peak of seven in 1983. Tresillian: one January 11th WARW. Airfield: one February 24th to March 4th AP.BTC.JAdEM. High Street, near St Austell: one flew east December 3rd SJC.

MARSH HARRIER - Circus aeruginosus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. The annual average since 1981 has been less than four birds with a peak of six in 1982. The last two records below probably relate to the same bird. Skewjack: male April 27th DSF. Gunwalloe: male May 26th SB. Marazion Marsh: first winter female December 12th and 13th CCB.MSW. Goonhilly Downs: female or immature December 25th into 1988 ARP.

HEN HARRIER - Circus cyaneus

Scarce winter visitor. Passage migrant. There are four main wintering areas in the county. On the mid Cornwall moors and moors the roost sites are well known and documented but the Lizard peninsula and Bodmin Moor roost sites have received less attention. Numbers wintering at both ends of 1987 were generally lower than in recent years. Bodmin Moor: Most first winter sightings were from the Crowdy Reservoir area and involved at least three birds, one male and two ringtails from January 30th to April 18th. Single ringtails were seen at Upper Fowey Valley February 8th and March 13th and Colliford February 15th.

40 In the second winter period single ringtails were noted at Crowdy Reservoir October 1st and Colliford Reservoir October 4th. Two ringtails were at Crowdy October 31st and through December. Mid-Cornwall moors: The four birds roosting at Tregonetha at the end of 1986 had reduced to two, one male and one ringtail, by January 3rd. They were joined by a second male February 8th and all three were last noted March 8th. Two birds including a male were also noted at Retallack January 3rd and at Rumford January 10th. The latter two were watched flying high towards the Tregonetha roost at dusk. Single ringtails were sighted at Mawgan Porth and on four occasions at St Eval Airfield - the last on March 20th. In the second winter period there was a male at Tregonetha December 2nd and four, two males, from December 20th into 1988. West Penwith moors: No reports received for the traditional roost site. There was a male at Boswednack January 10th and single ringtails at Madron February 14th, Boswednack February 20th and April 1st and Chun Hill March 12th. There was another sighting of a male, at Ding Dong March 13th. In the second winter period there was a ringtail at Trewey Common November 5th to 21st and December 31st and possibly the same bird at Drift November 29th. Lizard peninsula: At the end of 1986 there was a ringtail December 20th and a male December 27th/28th. The ringtail was noted sporadically until March 13th and possibly the same male was noted February 22nd to March 26th. Only on March 13th were the two seen together. In autumn there was a female near Kynance September 26th to 28th and in the second winter a male at Goonhilly December 18th and Mullion December 29th. Away from these four areas there was a first winter male at Camel Estuary January 24th with a female present here late January and February 27th, a ringtail at Landulph February 24th, a ringtail at Stithians October 11th and a ringtail at Grogley December 4th.

MONTAGU'S HARRIER - Circus pygargus

Rare passage migrant. Has bred but not since 1979. A small increase in the breeding population nationally may augur well for the future, locally. Roseannon Downs: female April 26th MPS. Kennack Sands: female May 6th MS. Croft Pascoe: ringtail May 10th ARP. Near Kynance: melanistic bird September 26th EGe et al. Harrier sp. Retallack: female April 25th DMY (Possibly the Montagu's seen at nearby Rosenannon the following day). St Agnes: ringtail April 28th RM. Goonhilly Downs: ringtail May 5th RJH (Possibly the Montagu's seen at Kennack Sands the following day).

GOSHAWK - Accipiter gentilis

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. May breed in very low numbers. Drift Reservoir: female February 8th CH.VH.SIJ.RJR. Ladock: one, probably a female May 10th PAM.

SPARROWHAWK - Accipiter nisus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Less common west of Truro, particularly on the Lands End peninsula where most records apparently relate to passage migrants. Since 1983 and 1984 when there were reports from c.70 localities, there may have been a slight decrease. In 1987 there were reports from 57 sites but these

41 did include some very general site references. Any decrease is probably due to the very cold winter. All reports this year related to ones and twos except four together at Loe Pool February 14th. Swallow Blackbird, House Sparrow and Greenfinch were the only 'kills' reported.

BUZZARD - Buteo buteo

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. No reports of decreases were received although BP thought breeding success in the Marazion area may have been affected by myxomatosis in the local rabbit population. The pale bird first noted at Par in September 1986 remained until April 9th. The largest gatherings reported included 13 at Camel Estuary and 18 at Wendron June 10th. A bird at Trevose head January 21st had no doubt been displaced by the freeze and a single flying south at Bude October 1st may have been a migrant. Unusual was one attacking a Woodpigeon at Rame Head January 6th.

OSPREY - Pandion haliaetus

Scarce passage migrant. Like 1986, a poor year, after 13 and 12 in 1985 and 1984 respectively. Colliford Reservoir: one May 8th JAdEM Loe Pool: one May 16th to 20th JSG.EGe. et al. Ruan Lanihorne: one August 22nd to 24th GCJ.DMY. Tamar Estuary: juvenile September 30th to October 7th RS et al. Lizard: juvenile flew east October 4th ARP.HCP.

KESTREL - Falco tinnunculus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Although very little recent comparative data is available this is a species which appears to have declined quite markedly in the last two or three years. The causes are unknown but may be related to the run of cold winters. Any comments for 1988 would be appreciated. SMC. RL considers the Kestrel far less common or more unobtrusive than Buzzard whilst JAdEM found no direct evidence of breeding on Bodmin Moor this year. (In their survey of the breeding birds of Bodmin Moor 1984 David Chown and Peter Akers located 14 pairs possibly breeding and one pair confirmed breeding). Despite this pessimism LSP and EMP described as 'well established' in the Roseland area and at least ten were seen along a 1 mile stretch of coastline at Perranporth on August 23rd. Apart from Bodmin Moor there were alarmingly few records from inland sites in mid and east Cornwall.

• MERLIN - Falco columbarius

Winter visitor. Scarce passage migrant. At the beginning of the year birds were reported from a mere nine sites - the poorest start to a year since 1982. Of these, a male had overwintered at Tregonetha and a male at Hayle January 1st may also have overwintered. The Tregonetha bird was regularly seen until March 8th and there was another report from Hayle February 15th. Single day/single birds were noted at Minions, Goonhilly, Connor Downs, Summercourt, Retallack, St Eval and Camel Estuary. In spring there was a light passage of six birds March 15th to 21st, three in April and three in May, the last at The Lizard on 8th. All reports were of widely scattered singles with the exception of two at Bolventor May 4th.

42 Autumn passage commenced with singles at Perranporth August 25th and Gerrans August 27th and ended abruptly with singles at Crafthole and Chapel Porth November 8th. C.40 birds were reported from 30 localities. Of these, ten were noted during September (mainly 25th to 28th) and 26 in October. Eight of the latter occurred between October 10th and 14th with the remainder distributed throughout the month. Regular reports were received for The Lizard October 1st to 17th with at least two present on 4th and from Porthgwarra where there was two October 23rd and 24th. Two were seen at Tregonetha October 29th but all other sightings were of singles. In the second winter period there were reports of singles at Tregantle, Devoran, Crowan, Loe Pool, Trewey Common, Hayle and regular reports of two overwintering at Tregonetha.

HOBBY - Falco subbuteo

Scarce passage migrant. Occasionally breeds. East Cornwall is at the western extremity of the Hobby's breeding range in and pairs are noted in suitable breeding habitat most years. Breeding was last proved in 1974 but may have occurred as recently as 1985 and may in fact occur annually. Lizard: one April 29th BC. Loe Pool: one May 10th JSC Long Rock: one May 17th DSF.BP. Bearah Tor: singles May 23rd PSC and August 3rd JAdEM. Porthgwarra: one May 28th GM. Godrevy: one May 29th GM. Sheviock: one June 13th SCM. Cotehele: one July 4th PSC. Calstock: one August 16th and 17th IK. Upper Fower Valley: one juvenile August 27th JAdEM. Helston: one September 23rd RHP. Ladock: one September 24th RLL.LML. Cot Valley: juvenile September 25th DR and an adult September 29th to October 4th. ICW.MRAB. Mile End, The Lizard: juvenile October 4th RB. Nanquidno: immature October 5th CCB.

Observers are reminded of the requirement of full details of this species.

PEREGRINE - Falco peregrinus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Well reported throughout the year from a total of 82 localities in all parts of the county. Nevertheless there does appear to have been a slight reversal in the Peregrine's fortunes in Cornwall with some traditional eyries, including the sole inland site, either not occupied or unsuccessful in 1987. Observers comments would be welcomed (and treated confidentially). There were many reports of two birds together and the following threes. Rumps Point March 2nd, St Agnes April 20th and Loe Pool October 10th. An interesting report concerned one which struck a Grey Plover at Ruan Lanihorne February 7th, but before the Peregrine could return to collect its victim, two Car­ rion Crows had interceded and eaten it. GCJ.

CHUKAR - Alectoris chukar

Feral release. Scarce resident? Near St Germans: two April 5th. AHJH. The first county mainland record. See also 'Chukars: The first Cornish record and a key to their identification' pages 125 - 127.

43 RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE - Alectoris rufa

Feral release. Scarce resident. Breeds. Hundreds, if not thousands of hand-reared birds have been released in various parts of the county over the last ten years. Particularly large numbers have been released in the Newquay - St Columb Major - Wadebridge area, but very few remain. The reason for the species' failure to colonise is not fully understood but one popular theory relates to the fact that because it is a less aerial species than Grey Partridge, the heavy soils of Cornwall clog up the species' feet thus making it more vulnerable to predators. 1987 proved to be the poorest year since 1982. Davidstow: two from 1986 remained to January 25th AJB. Higher Porthpean: one walking along pavement March 25th RL. Penhellick Farm, Truro: one April 14th GHT. Pentire, Polzeath: one April 15th ML. Rumford: one April 25th with two into 1988 SMC.TMC.LW. Trescowe, St Mabyn: two November 7th IK.

GREY PARTRIDGE - Perdix perdix

Declining resident. Breeds. The decline of this species continues at an alarming and accelerating rate. In 1987 there were reports from just 27 sites with breeding proved at only five! There appears little room for optimism and unless something drastic is done to stop the removal of rough ground and hedgerows on farms and insecticide/herbicide use is restricted it seems unlikely that there will; a) be any nest sites left or b) any food for those birds that remain. Most farmers spoken to are aware of the decrease but seem unable or unwilling to do anything about it. However, they all remember the Corncrake with affection! In south east Cornwall there were single day sightings at Whitsand Bay, Sheviock and Halton Quay. Six were at Rame Head January 25th with a pair regular to August 13th but no evidence of breeding. The largest covey reported from this area was ten at Maker November 1st. South coast records were pitifully few. There were single day records of pairs at Portholland and St Just-in-Roseland and a single at Par. At The Lizard there were records from Predannack Head and Kynance Cove. A pair with chicks were noted in the latter area June 23rd and a covey of ten was present in late September. Apart from one at Porthleven March 19th there were no other reports west of a line drawn from Loe Pool to St Agnes. From St Agnes to Trevalga there were reports from 13 sites along the coastal belt, plus sighting at Allet and Goonhavern. Virtually all reports concerned single day sightings of one or two birds with breeding proved only at Trevose Head, Trebarwith, Lundy Bay and Pentire Point.

QUAIL - Coturnix coturnix

Scarce passage migrant and summer visitor. Occasionally breeds. 1987 was a good Quail year nationally and was the best since 1982 locally. As usual, most reports came from mid Cornwall but once again there was no systematic checking of suitable habitat and the actual total present was undoubtedly much greater. St Columb Minor: male calling 0230 hours May 30th JH. Winnards Perch: two males June 4th to July 3rd, but at least three last date. SMC et al. Coswarth/Colan: four calling July 1st to 18th PJD. St Teath: one calling July 11th MPF. Trelawder, St Minver: one calling July 29th MDS. Upper Tamar Reservoir: one calling July 30th RMRJ.GPS.

44 PHEASANT - Phasianus colchicus

Feral release. Resident. Breeds. With hundreds, if not thousands released annually in many parts of the county, populations remain consistently high and widespread in all districts except the Land's End peninsula from where there were no reports for 1987. The largest gatherings included 40 at Caerhays October 22nd and 40 roosting at Whitecross, Newquay December 21st. Amongst normal plumaged birds at Menabilly on September 15th, RL noted one pure white bird, two melanistic and four leucistic birds.

WATER RAIL - Rallus aquaticus

Rare resident. Breeds in very low numbers. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was proved at Marazion Marsh/Long Rock reedbed where the first juvenile was noted Jul 9th. At least four pairs may have bred BP. At Tamar Lake a juvenile was noted with an adult Aug 20th but it is not known if it was a locally bred bird. At Gunwalloe, single birds were heard calling throughout the breeding season and in May birds were also noted at Tresemple Pool and Stithians Reservoir. In the first winter period there were reports of mainly single day sightings from 15 localities. Regular reports were received for Par, Swanpool, Loe Pool, Marazion Marsh and Bude Marshes. Maximum numbers included seven at Bude Jan 3rd, five at Swanpool Jan 18th and five at Marazion Feb 10th. The only obvious spring migrant was one at Godrevy Mar 24th to Apr 14th. Apart from possible breeders the first for autumn were two at Cotehele Aug 19th. Autumn passage proved to be desperately thin with hardly any reports from recognised migration watch points and only c.15 birds for the whole of October. They included six at Bude Oct 20th and singles at Kennack Sands, Trevail and Porth Mear. With mild weather persisting to the end of the year there was no influx and records from only ten sites in Nov/Dec. All reports were of ones and twos except three at Tamar Lake.

SPOTTED CRAKE - Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Very rare winter visitor.

45 Marazion Marsh: juvenile trapped and ringed August 6th BP. juvenile September 12th/13th. JLFP. Allet Bog, near Truro: one calling at midnight August 30th ADS. Upper Fowey Valley: one September 27th JAdEM Near Praze-an-Beeble: one standing ont he B3280 road in the early hours of September 23rd was thought to have been attracted by moonlight shining on the wet road after heavy rain. (= River!)DSF 1986 record

Marazion Marsh: one August 24th DM

CORNCRAKE - Crex crex

Rare passage migrant. Formerly bred and has overwintered. Breeding has not been reported in the county since 1967 and there has been no breeding season record since 1977. Lanvean Moor, Bugle: one found dead October 3rd SJM Penlee Point: one October 12th RWG MOORHEN - Gallinula chloropus

Resident. Breeds. Winter visitor. With the loss of suitable wetland habitat in recent years there appears to have been a substantial reduction in breeding populations. In 1987 breeding was reported from only 14 areas, but included a first breeding record for Tregathenan Reservoir. Most sites held one or two pairs but there were at least six pairs at Marazion Marsh. At St Dennis a week old chick was noted on the very late date of September 14th. At Tehidy CNT noted that numbers had been greatly reduced. Maximum numbers: Drift Reservoir: 28 January 7th. Caerhays: 45 January 11th, 30 March 4th to 9th, 35 November 17th, 45 Decem­ ber 9th. Pentewan: 25 January 19th, 20 February 5th. Helston Amenity Area: 30 January 25th, 30 November 1st to 31st. Loe Pool: 37 February 21st. Par Beach Pool: 20 March 13th, 15 November 11th. Maer Lake, Bude: 26 December 8th, 24 December 19th.

COOT - Fulica atra

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeds annually at Stithians Reservoir but only irregularly at a number of other sites. In 1987 a total of eight pairs reared 35 young at Stithians, at least seven pairs bred at Marazion Marsh, at least two pairs bred at Loe Pool but no young were seen whilst a pair which attempted to next at Crowan Reservoir were flooded out. On Bodmin Moor two juveniles were seen at Colliford Reservoir in June and two juveniles were noted at Crowdy Reservoir in July. As expected the largest flocks were noted subsequent to the January freeze and dur­ ing the mid February cold spell. Second winter numbers were very slow to build up. Maximum numbers: Argal Reservoir: 60 January 1st, 100 January 13th, 215 January 28th, 210 February 12th, 88 December 12th. Upper Tamar Reservoir: 80 January 16th, 100 February 1st. Siblyback Reservoir: 140 January 17th, 126 February 17th, 53 September 29th, 74 October 10th. Hayle Estuary: 100 January 17th, 87 February 15th. Stithians Reservoir: 114 February 10th, 140 February 27th, 52 July 27th. Drift Reservoir: 78 February 10th Swanpool: 50 March 7th, 38 December 10th

46 Loe Pool: 75 November 18th, 71 December 18th Colliford Reservoir: 60 December 13th One at Percuil January 20th was PR's first record here. Monthly wildfowl counts at principal localities - winter 1987/88

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar County total 158 227 250 378 424 362 147 Siblyback Res. 20 74 48 55 62 57 20 Colhford Res. 26 33 25 65 59 34 16 Argal Res. 9 39 88 112 97 12 Loe Pool 53 60 75 71 32 25 15 Marazion Marsh 9 11 24 51 36 32 22

CRANE - Grus grus

Rare vagrant. Assuming that all records relate to the same bird the county mainland total moves on to 23 birds involved in ten occurrences. All accepted by BBRC. Camel Estuary: one January 8th JK Marazion: one January 13th per BBRC. Newtown-in-St. Martin, The Lizard: one January 8th to March 13th RB.ARP.et al. Havnes Abbatoir, The Lizard: one flying north in the teeth of a gale January 23rd RB.

Crane Sp. A crane, not specifically identified was seen flying over Perranporth towards Newquay December 2nd R.Harper.

OYSTERCATCHER - Haematopus ostralegus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was confirmed at Hells Mouth where a pair were noted with fledged young June 7th and at Warren Cove, Treyarnon Bay and Trevalga. Nesting may also have occurred at Porth Mear, Park Head, Pentire Point and Lantivet Bay. As always the breeding season was very poorly documented. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 225 January 3rd, 530 January 28th, 521 February 20th, 427 March 10th, 420 August 29th, 456 September 14th and up to 300 to the end of the year. Par: 105 January 29th, 146 May 2nd, 120 August 22nd/24th. St Johns Lake: 376 February 7th, 221 September 19th, 350 October 16th, 240 December 28th. Ruan Lanihorne: 200 August 29th. Bude: 101 September 9th, 150 October 6th. Gwithian/Godrevy: 116 September 25th. Unusual reports included one inland at East Moor, Bodmin Moor July 29th JAdEM, one at Hayle Estuary January 29th with coffee coloured primaries and one at RAF St Mawgan with a deformed bill, ie: both mandibles over long and splayed apart at the extremities. JHWW.

BLACK-WINGED STILT - Himantopus himantopus

Rare vagrant. Four together is quite unprecedented, even in a year when there were numerous reports throughout the U.K., including successful breeding in Norfolk. These four bring the county mainland total to 18 and constitute the seventh to tenth records in the last nine years.

47 Par Beach: four flew in off the sea and flew north May 15th RL. Accepted by BBRC.

AVOCET - Recurvirostra avosetta Scarce winter visitor. Rare passage migrant. Has wintered annually on the Tamar Estuary since 1947/48, but only occasionally elsewhere. Tamar Estuary: noted until March 29th with a maximum of 105 January 17th and an unconfirmed report of 125 January 24th. In the second winter period noted from December 19th with a maximum of 106 on that date. Birds probably from this flock were noted at; Millbrook: three January 18th. Lynher Estuary ten January 24th. Elsewhere there were: Camel Estuary: singles February 9th and April 22nd/25th. Hayle Estuary: singles February 24th to March 7th, April 18th/24th and October 7th to November 4th. Marazion one December 6th.

COLLARED PRATINCOLE - Glareola pratincola 1973 record Hayle Kimbro Pool: one May 29th/31st. BC This was the fourth county mainland record and brings the total to seven. It has not previously appeared in 'Birds in Cornwall' but was accepted by BBRC at the time.

LITTLE RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius dubius

Uncommon passage migrant. A welcome improvement after two poor years. Marazion Marsh: singles March 28th/30th ARP.CCB.DSF et al, April 6th MDS., April 25th/26th BP et al and April 28th BP Copperhouse: one April 30th CCB Upper Tamar Reservoir: one May 9th/10th GPS.KS.SJCx. Davidstow Airfield: one May 14th BTC. Drift Reservoir: juvenile July 30th. CCB.

RINGED PLOVER - Charadrius hiaticula

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly a very scarce breeding species but has not done so since 1972. It is unlikely to breed again owing to vastly increased coastal disturbance even in the most remote districts. First winter flocks were again very small with the freeze probably forcing many out of the county. Spring passage apparently commenced mid-March and ended with two at Loe Pool May 31st. Very few were reported with most moving through during May. Autumn passage commenced with one at Hayle Estuary July 3rd. Very poor numbers were reported to the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: the large flock of 168 reported in December 1986 had evidently dispersed because only 45 remained January 3rd/9th. 60 January 27th, 52 March 11th, 55 October 3rd, 250 December 20th. Marazion: 120 January 13th, 58 December 1st. Hayle Estuary: 58 February 25th, 40 March 13th, 46 August 10th, 50 Sep­ tember 15th. St Johns Lake: 110 August 25th, 42 December 18th.

48 Par: 40 August 31st. Godrevy: 32 September 19th. No other site attracted more than 30. Inland there were reports from most of the reservoirs but numbers were low. The exceptions were 14 at Colliford Reservoir August 25th, a staggering 68 near Kynance September 13th and 21 at Upper Tamar Reservoir September 22nd.

DOTTEREL - Charadrius morinellus

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Prior to 1968 there were only two county mainland records, but since, there has been records in every year. Davidstow Airfield: singles March 25th ML and September 10th BTC. St Just Airfield: three (two males and a female) April 18th/20th VRT et al. One April 28th CCB.

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis dominica

Vagrant. Formerly known as Lesser Golden Plover and conspecific with another distinctive race now re-named Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva). A re-appraisal of Lesser Golden Plover records shows that since the first in 1968 there have been reports of c.34 birds assignable to the new species 'American Golden Plover1 or not specifically assigned, and only two (at Stithians in 1975 and Sennen in 1971) positively identified as 'Pacific Golden Plover'. Lands Ends/St Just Airfield: adult September 30th to October 4th MDJ.DSF.et al. Hayle Estuary: juvenile October 8th to 11th GDL. Davidstow Airfield: adult October 17th/22nd IK.DJR.RMS.AMD et al. (This bird was considered the same as the Lands End on account of its moult from breeding to non-breeding plumage and the fact that it had a broken leg. SMC.) Near Kynance: juvenile October 31st ARP. All accepted by BBRC. 1984 record. Stithians Reservoir: juvenile November 13th BC.

GOLDEN PLOVER - Pluvialis apricaria

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Both races 'P.a. apricaria' and 'P.a. altifrons* occur. Flocks overwintering from 1986 were very small and although there was a light movement through the county January 10th to 13th it was quite evident that virtually all had left the county by mid month. A few were noted in late February but March records were almost non-existent. In spring there was a large flock at Stithians but few elsewhere. Last was one at Hayle Estuary May 27th. The first in autumn was one at Kynance August 1st. As in 1985 and 1986 passage was slow with very few noted until the second week of October. Fair-sized flocks were reported until mid- November but then a dearth until the last ten days of December. Maximum numbers: Tamar Estuary: 1200 January 2nd. Camel Estuary: 100 January 3rd, 1000 December 25th. Gribbin Head 1000 January 11th. Near Kynance: 725 moved through January 11th. 200 October 18th, 350 October 31st, 400 November 15th. Hayle Estuary: 300 January 13th and February 11th. 430 November 14th, 300 December 20th. Stithians Reservoir: 500 April 27th. East: 300 October 12th. Davidstow Airfield: 1000 October 21st, 750 November 10th.

4^ Colliford Reservoir: 1000 November 1st. At Ruan Lanihorne, 86 December 19th was the largest flock here since 100 on 27th October 1983! GCJ. Very few northern race 'altifrons' were reported. There were eight at Kynance March 28th with one there August 1st and 13 at St Just Airfield April 28th.

GREY PLOVER - Pluvialis squatarola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Overwintering flocks were small but there was a general increase towards the end of January. Many of these remained into February. Spring passage boosted flocks in mid March but there were very few in April. A late spring passage involving c.40 birds occurred May 8th to 31st. The last in spring, or was it first in autumn?, was one at Hayle Estuary June 29th. Autumn passage was painfully slow with only about a dozen reported before mid October. Most moved through in late November and second winter flocks were the smallest for many years. Maximum numbers: Hayle Estuary: 50 January 7th, 85 February 15th, 49 March 15th, 31 December 17th. Ruan Lanihorne 31 January 19th, 32 March 7th. Camel Estuary 215 January 24th, 221 February 11th, 180 March 13th, 50 December 4th/31st. St Johns Lake: 96 January 25th, 65 February 7th, 60 March 18th, 60 November 22nd. Newquay: 100 January 25th. Lynher Estuary: 50 February 14th. Polzeath up to 110 March 14th to April 8th. Inland there were singles at Crowdy Reservoir May 9th, Upper Tamar Reservoir May 10th and near Kynance August 27th.

SOCIABLE PLOVER - Chettusia gregaria

Very rare vagrant. There is one previous county mainland record - one at Hayle Estuary 11th to 16th October 1978. Davidstow Airfield: first winter October 19th/20th GPS et al. Accepted by BBRC.

LAPWING - Vanellus vanellus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding was reported from six areas on Bodmin Moor, but coverage was incomplete. There were single pairs at Bowithick, Upper Fowey Valley and Dozmary Pool, three to five pairs at Crowdy Reservoir, four pairs at Colliford Reservoir and six pairs at East Moor. (In 1984, 77 pairs were located on the Moor). At The Lizard at least one pair was present at Goonhilly Downs and two pairs at Hayle Kimbro. Like Golden Plover there was an exodus of birds from the county with the onset of the freeze. There was evidence of a return passage during February but very few in March. Autumn flocks were very slow to build up with no triple figure concentrations until late October. Second winter flocks were small. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 395 January 3rd, 415 February 27th, 654 November 9th, 1000 December 7th. Hayle Estuary: 1000 January 13th, 2000 January 16th, 1600 December 20th. Mullion: 1300 flew south January 13th. 500 January 14th. Davidstow Airfield: 1500 October 21st.

50 Truro River: 600 December 20th. Near Kynance: 740 December 26th.

KNOT - Calidris canutus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Formerly occurred in much larger numbers, particularly at St Johns Lake. Very few overwintered from 1986 but there was a small movement through the county at the time of the freeze. Most reports were of single day sightings of one to three birds. There was a large flock at St Johns Lake for a day in February but few thereafter. Last in spring was a single at Hayle Estuary May 28th. Autumn passage commenced with two at St Johns Lake July 6th. Numbers throughout autumn were generally low with most moving through August 22nd to September 26th. Only six birds were reported for December - surely the lowest winter total ever. Regular reports and maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: noted until March 14th with maximum of 57 January 24th and 200 February 8th. Noted from July 6th to November 22nd with maximum of 27 last date. Camel Estuary: noted until March 22nd with maximum of 50 January 17th and 37 February 5th. Noted from July 30th to November 30th with maximum of 19 September 8th. Hayle Estuary: five January 11th, singles January 13th and on five dates in May. Noted from August 28th to December 12th with maximum of 80 September 22nd and 22 October 1st. Elsewhere there were 15 at Penhale January 11th, 11 at Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth January 13th, nine at St Anthony Head January 24th, 19 at Godrevy January 31st and 14 at Bude September 2nd, but no more than six togeth­ er at any other site. Inland there were singles near Kynance August 26th and at Tamar Lake September 26th.

SANDERLING - Calidris alba

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Mounts Bay is undoubtedly the most important site for the species in the county, but other localities which annually attract small parties of migrants include Hayle Estuary/Porthkidney Sands, Camel Estuary and Par Beach. During the January freeze the species was rather more widespread than is customary with reports of up to ten birds at Par, Portscatho, Loe Bar, Camel Estuary and Bude. Larger flocks were at Mounts Bay and Hayle Estuary. Spring passage was noted during May with good numbers at three sites. Last were 20 at Mounts Bay May 30th. Autumn passage commenced with six at Par July 22nd and ended October 17th. Most moved through during September. Second win­ ter flocks were small. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Mounts Bay: noted until March 29th with maximum of 100 January 31st and February 22nd. Also six April 26th, four May 29th and 20 May 30th. 50 December 17th. Par Beach: noted irregularly January 25th to May 27th with maximum of 30 May 23rd. Noted from July 22nd to October 3rd with maximum of nine July 24th. One December 8th. Camel Estuary: noted January 17th to March 21st with maximum of eight. Up to four September 11th to October 17th. Hayle Estuary: 43 January 21st, 25 May 4th, up to 12 during August, 50 September 4th and seven December 12th. Porthkidney Beach: 13 September 5th, 30 September 15th. Gwithian Beach 26 September 19th.

51 Inland there were five at Carluddon Clay Pit, Stenalees May 17th and one at Colliford Reservoir August 31st.

LITTLE STINT - Calidris minuta

Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. None overwintered, none in spring and another abysmal showing in autumn. Stithians Reservoir: noted August 29th to November 2nd with maximum of three October 2nd. Loe Pool: singles August 30th and October 4th. Gannel Estuary: juvenile September 1st. Hayle Estuary: noted September 5th to October 18th with maximum of two October 7th/9th. Colliford Reservoir: one September 8th/10th. Upper Tamar Reservoir: juvenile September 9th, two September 21st/23rd. Treskilling Clay Pit, : one September 9th. Crowdy Reservoir: one September 24th/26th. Porth Reservoir: juvenile September 26th to October 7th but two October 5th. Truro River: one September 27th. Drift Reservoir: three September 28th to October 1st, seven October 5th and one October 16th. St Johns Lake: one September 29th. Camel Estuary:one October 5th.

TEMMINCK'S STINT - Calidris temminckii

Rare passage migrant. These two bring the county mainland total to 21. Marazion Marsh: one flushed May 13th DSF. 1984 record Stithians Reservoir: juvenile August 23rd BC. The following day it was at College Reservoir.

PECTORAL SANDPIPER - Calidris melanotos

Rare passage migrant. Stithians Reservoir: two juveniles August 30th DJC. possibly the same September 18th to October 3rd. Three October 4th with one to October 8th. MCT.JH. et al. Hayle Kimbro Pool: juvenile September 14th/15th. JH.ARP. Drift Reservoir: one September 15th to 21st. JLFP et al. Porth Reservoir: juvenile October 3rd to 11th EJC.SMC.LW.

CURLEW SANDPIPER - Calidris ferruginea

Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. Spring records are rare but this year there were singles at Marazion May 1st and 7th and two at Camel Estuary May 10th. Autumn passage commenced with an adult at Par August 13th and ended with one at Lynher Estuary November 5th. Although it was a fairly widespread passage with reports from 19 localities, numbers were very small and involved a meagre total of c.53 birds. Almost one half of these moved through September 24th to 29th. Regular reports and maximum numbers. Camel Estuary: one or two regular September 9th to October 19th. Davidstow Airfield: noted September 9th to 23rd with maximum of four last date. Also one October 15th. Hayle Estuary: noted September 11th to October 20th with maximum of five October 9th.

52 Stithians Reservoir: noted September 19th to October 8th with maximum of 11 September 25th.

No other site attracted more than a single bird.

PURPLE SANDPIPER - Calidris maritima Passage migrant. Winter visitor. In the first winter period there were reports from 15 traditional localities and in the second winter period from 14. As always the largest flock was at Penzance Bathing Pool where the peak count was the highest since the winter of 1975/76. At Sennen the peak count was the highest there since December 1970. Elsewhere the only other double-figure counts were at Looe, Par and Bude. Last in spring was one at Par May 2nd and first return birds were five there August 17th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Penzance/Newlyn: noted until April 20th with maximum of 52 January 1st to 11th, 61 January 31st, 57 March 15th, 20 December 29th/30th. Looe: noted until March 21st with maximum of 16 February 21st and from October 31st with maximum of eight that date. Par: noted until May 2nd with maximum of 10 April 28th. Five August 17th and December 13th. Constantine Bay: eight January 23rd, two March 12th and six March 13th. Sennen Cove: seven September 21st, 50 October 26th. Newquay: one or two both winter periods but six October 29th. Bude: 18 November 6th. Porthleven: seven November 22nd. No more than three at any other site.

DUNLIN - Calidris alpina

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding occasionally occurs on Bodmin Moor. This year a pair was present at the 1986 breeding site but no attempt was made to locate a nest and therefore success or lack of it is unknown. First winter flocks were about average with largest numbers noted in mid-February. Spring passage was evident April 8th to June 25th and was generally light. Autumn passage apparently commenced in mid-July but flocks were exceptionally small. Winter nocks started to build up from the third week of November but were smaller than normal. Maximum numbers: St Johns Lake: 1400 January 7th, 3000 January 25th, 1200 March 14th. 3000 November 22nd, 3500 December 28th. Lynher Estuary: 4000 February 14th. Camel Estuary: 952 January 3rd, 1400 February 14th, 700 March 6th, 600 November 30th, 400 December 25th. Hayle Estuary: 520 January 18th, 1000 February 15th, 500 December 20th to 31st. Ruan Lanihorne: 1000 January 19th. There were the usual inland records from most reservoirs, particularly in autumn. The largest number by far were 110 near Kynance January 17th and 155 there March 1st.

BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER - Tryngites subruficollis

Vagrant. The species has now been recorded in each of the last eleven years, but there has been only one definite record in each of the last two. Near Kynance: juvenile September 19th to 22nd ARP.RB.DSF.EGe.

53 A probable was sighted briefly at Davidstow Airfield September 13th PSC.JEC.

RUFF - Philomachus pugnax

Passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor. In 1980 a male and two females were noted at a possible breeding site in July but there has been no repitition. Although none had overwintered from 1986, several arrived in the county from January 10th having evidently been displaced by the freeze, c.40 birds were involved but very few remained more than a day or two. Spring passage was exceptional this year with three pronounced arrivals. The first, March 7th to 22nd involved c.20 birds, the second April 1st to 4th involved c.37 birds and the third April 15th to 20th involved c.150 birds. It was probably the heaviest spring incursion ever with the grand total of c.220, greater than the previous record years of 1982 and 1965. A few singles were noted into May with the last at Hayle Kimbro Pool May 15th. The first in autumn were singles at Hayle Estuary July 13th and Stithians July 21st. In contrast to spring, autumn passage was poor with no marked arrivals and only c.50 birds reported. The sole second winter bird was at Hayle Estuary. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: five January 23rd, singles March 14th, May 10th to 14th. Noted August 11th to October 19th with maximum of six September 6th. Lynher Estuary: eight January 25th. Hayle Estuary: noted regularly January 29th to April 16th with maximum of 9 February 11th, 12 March 7th and 14 March 15th. One or two many dates July 13th to end of year. Par: nine February 2nd, three March 16th. Near Kynance: 17 April 4th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: 11 April 4th, 17 April 17th. Marazion Marsh: noted April 3rd to 20th with maximum of 14 April 15th and 38 April 16th. Davidstow Airfield: 40 April 15th, singles April 22nd and May 8th. Noted September 22nd to October 30th with maximum of 12 October 1st. Maer Lake, Bude: noted April 15th to 19th with maximum of 14 first date. Tamar Lakes: 33 April 15th. One or two regular August 10th to September 3rd. Bude: nine flew south over the sea April 17th. All other reports were of two or less.

JACK SNIPE - Lymnocryptes minimus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Despite the freeze, another abysmal year. Singles unless stated otherwise: Lower Tamar Lake: two January 8th. Mullion: January 13th to 16th. Loe Pool: January 13th. Lanjeth: January 15th. Crowan Reservoir: January 16th/17th, two February 21st and one March 31st. Marazion: January 23rd and February 19th. Par: January 24th. Maer Lake, Bude: January 27th. Hill Tor, Bodmin Moor: February 28th. Upper Fowey Valley: October 5th and 14th, December 6th. Hayle Kimbro Pool: four November 6th. Allet Bog, Truro: November 8th. Bude Marshes: November 8th. Stithians Reservoir: one or two November 10th to December 5th. Skewjack: November 29th.

54 Copperhouse: three December 20th (a record for here).

SNIPE - Gallinago gallinago

Resident. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeds in small numbers (c.50 pairs estimated in 1984) on Bodmin Moor, but recent coverage very poor. May breed in very low numbers elsewhere; e.g. Goss Moor and Lizard Downs. Apparently in decline nationally as a result of habitat destruction. Certainly wintering numbers have decreased in Cornwall in recent years - a view expressed by SMC.TJD and BP of the Camel Estuary, Bude and Marazion areas respectively. Largest flocks were reported at the time of the January freeze and after the cold snap in February. Spring passage was virtually non-existent with the last at Black Rock May 3rd. First in autumn was one at Crowan Reservoir August 6th. Second winter flocks were abnormally small. Breeding season records were received for only two sites on Bodmin Moor. At Buttern Hill Marsh a bird was flushed from a possible nest site and birds were noted at Colliford Reservoir. Maximum numbers: Maer Marsh, Bude: 250 January 5th, 400 December 30th. Marazion Marsh: 40 January 7th and February 10th. Barripper: 85 January 15th, 130 January 16th, 50 February 18th. Gwithian: 40 January 17th. Landulph Marsh: 50 January 18th. Pentewan Marsh: 50 February 15th. Crowan Reservoir: 60 February 21st. Stithians Reservoir: 100 February 27th. Mullion: 20 October 31st. Copperhouse: 21 November 22nd. Upper Fowey Valley: c.100 in winter periods.

LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER - Limnodromus scolopaceus

Rare vagrant. Camel Estuary: the bird first noted 9th August 1986 remained until April 19th by which date it was moulting into breeding plumage. MO.

WOODCOCK - Scolopax rusticola

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Owing to its retiring habits this species is always grossly under-recorded. Breeding has been proved on only a few occasions, but not the slightest suspicion of breeding for at least twenty years. In 1987 there were reports from 36 sites in the first winter period and spring but from only 17 sites in autumn and the second winter period. c.72 birds were reported during the freeze, January 13th to 21st. Most reports were of ones and twos but there were 16 at Rame Head January 17th,12+ at Mullion January 12th, five at Gannel Estuary January 14th, five at Argal Reservoir January 16th, three at Duckpool January 15th and three at Godrevy January 19th. At Antony Estate, Torpoint 22 were shot in one day January 22nd. Spring passage went almost undetected but did include four at Allet Bog March 6th. Last was one at St Neot March 22nd. The first in autumn was one at Rame Head October 8th followed by one at Black Rock October 25th. Very small numbers were noted during November and December. The maximum included three at Upper Fowey Valley November 15th, four at Allet Bog December 2nd and three at Idless December 28th. Only eight birds were reported in the last week of the year.

55 BLACK-TAILED GOD WIT - Limosa limosa

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. As previously noted there has been a decrease in the size of flocks visiting the county. SCM reflects that numbers in the Millbrook/St Johns Lake area seem less each year. A quick perusal of the records for the last twenty years reveals that he is not mistaken. Between 1969 and 1978 c.200 was the average winter peak with up to 250 in some years. The first slump came in 1981 when the maximum count was 86. Subsequently numbers have declined almost annually to a new low in 1987 - some 87% down on 1969. At the Fal Estuary complex where observations have been less regular in recent years, there has been a reduction but not to the same extent as at St John. In 1987, flocks were exceptionally small in the first winter period and it seems likely that most were forced out by the freeze. Spring passage was very light with the last at Camel Estuary May 31st. First return birds were four at Restronguet Creek June 27th. Apart from those at Ruan Lanihorne very few arrived until late September. Second winter flocks were again small. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Tamar Estuary: 29 January 1st, 44 March 29th, 50 April 1st, 40 December 28th. St Johns Lake/Millbrook: 33 January 6th, 25 January 21st, 31 December 13th. Devoran: 49 January 6th, 35 April 2nd, 40 October 31st, 20 December 20th. Truro/Tresillian: 120 January 18th, 108 January 30th, 60 February 16th, 81 November 22nd, 58 December 20th Camel Estuary: 15 January 18th, 18 March 16th, 30 September 6th. Ruan Lanihorne: 97 August 28th, 148 September 19th. Hayle Estuary: 20 October 11th. Restronguet: 30 October 25th, 76 December 20th. Inland there were singles in autumn at Crowan Reservoir, Porth Reservoir and Crowdy Reservoir. At Drift Reservoir eight, including seven August 19th were reported and at Stithians Reservoir four, including three September 18th were noted.

BAR-TAILED GODWIT - Limosa lapponica

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Parallel with the reduction in the numbers of Black-tailed Godwit at St Johns Lake there has been an increase in the peak numbers of Bar-tailed Godwit occurring there. In each of the last four years the peak has been over 80, whereas in the previous four years the highest count was 37. At the beginning of 1987 numbers overwintering were negligible but there was a small influx of birds displaced by the freeze. Few of these stayed into February or March and there was only a light spring passage which lasted from April 17th to May 31st and involved c.62 birds. There was one at Hayle Estuary June 20th and a few in July but autumn passage was extremely light and late. Second winter flocks were small. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: only six January 3rd but increasing to 43 January 17th and up to 40 to March 6th, 20 September 6th, 24 October 15th, 40 October 19th but only six at the end of the year. Hayle Estuary: one January 3rd increased to 15 January 18th, 15 September 15th, 20 October 6th and 10 December 20th. St Johns Lake: 100 January 25th, 80 November 22nd, 36 December 26th. Mounts Bay: 12 January 31st to February 8th. East Looe River: 60 November 21st (an extraordinary number here). The only records for the whole of the Fal complex concerned five at Devoran in spring and late autumn. Inland there were two at Croft Pascoe Pool May 8th and singles at Crowdy Reservoir May 14th and near Kynance September 13th.

56 WHIMBREL - Numenius phaeopus

Passage migrant (mainly spring). A few 'winter'. Single birds overwintered from 1986 at Tamar Estuary and Camel Estuary, but the latter was joined by another January 17th. There was no report of the late 1986 St Johns Lake bird but one at Rame Head January 31st may be relevant. Elsewhere there were singles at Turnaware January 3rd, Rosemullion Head February 13th and The Lizard February 14th. Spring passage commenced with a flock of ten at Looe March 21st but no more until two at Porthleven April 1st. Passage was light with most moving through April 17th to 28th and peak day counts of 237 April 20th and 185 April 25th. A few continued to move during June. Autumn passage was very light with most noted in late July and August. In the second winter period there were two at Tamar Estuary. Maximum numbers: St Austell Bay: 80 April 20th, 90 April 21st. Mounts Bay: 120 April 20th, 130 April 25th. Tamar Estuary: 34 flew north April 20th. Camel Estuary: 40 April 25th, 50 July 30th. Porthgwarra: 73 April 26th.

CURLEW - Numenius arquata

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Another species which has declined as a breeding bird in recent years. On Bodmin Moor there were reports from only four areas involving five or six pairs. Elsewhere a pair with young was found at Kilkhampton and displaying birds were reported at Goonhilly Downs and Goss Moor. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 740 January 9th, 846 February 10th, 425 March 5th, 550 July 7th, 600 August 24th, 620 September 22nd, 112 December 3rd. Tresillian: 200 January 9th, 149 September 23rd, 117 October 23rd. St Johns Lake: 250 January 24th, 110 March 14th, 205 September 29th, 240 November 22nd. East Looe River: 112 January 25th. Ruan Lanihorne: 380 January 30th, 300 July 25th, 520 August 29th, 250 to October 29th. Gannel Estuary: 550 February 15th, 418 September 29th (all roosting). Hayle Estuary: 302 February 15th, 170 September 14th. Gwithian: 200 February 16th. Truro River: 200 February 22nd to March 15th, 220 August 22nd, 535 Sep­ tember 27th. Devoran: 200 March 15th, 300 August 3rd to 22nd.

Ruan Lanihorne: 312 September 13th, 400 September 19th, 350 November 1st.

SPOTTED REDSHANK - Tringa erythropus

Passage migrant. Uncommon winter visitor. As usual the largest overwintering flock was on the Lynher Estuary where there were peaks of 12 January 1st and 13 February 17th. Elsewhere there was six at Tresillian, two at Truro River and singles at Tamar Estuary, Helford Estuary and Camel Estuary. There was a very light spring passage April 5th to May 16th involving c.10 birds. Most were singles but there was three at Hayle Estuary April 24th and four at Drift Reservoir April 25th. Return passage commenced with one at Hayle Estuary June 21sts. It proved to be one of the poorest autumn migrations on record with very few noted until mid September.

57 Principal counts included 15 at Drift Reservoir August 29th with ten there September 3rd to 11th, 12 regular at Tresillian and nine at Lynher Estuary October 17th. Other maxima included six at Truro River, five at Stithians Reservoir and four at Camel Estuary. In the second winter period twelve were noted at Lynher Estuary, three at Tamar Estuary and one at Tresillian. As reported in the 1985 Report, birds visiting Ruan Lanihorne have decreased in number in recent years. During the 1970's and early 1980's over 20 were regularly reported, particularly in autumn. This year no more than two were reported together, and all between July 11th and September 23rd. Although observations have been much less frequent here over the last few years, the reduction is thought to be actual rather than related to the lack of coverage.

REDSHANK - Tringa totanus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Breeding has occurred only twice - in 1904 and 1980, but was also probable in 1968. First winter flocks were generally small and many may have been driven out of the county by the freeze. There was evidence of a return movement in mid-March, but very few in April. Last were two at Crowdy Reservoir May 17th. Autumn passage commenced with two at Helford Estuary June 16th. Numbers were about average but there was a substantial decrease in the second win­ ter period. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 220 January 7th, 230 February 20th, 215 March 13th, 130 October 15th. Hayle Estuary: 45 January 7th, 76 March 15th, 97 October 4th. Ruan Lanihorne: 152 January 30th, 126 August 10th, 100 October 10th, 174 November 1st, 105 December 20th. St Johns Lake: 155 February 7th, 100 July 10th, 150 August 25th, 200 September 29th to October 4th. Truro River: 100 March 11th, 120 August 17th to September 11th, 100 November 3rd. Devoran: 120 March 11th, 175 August 20th. Tresillian: 115 August 20th and November 1st. Lynher Estuary: 100 September 15th. Inland there was an incredible 40 at Tamar Lakes April 15th but elsewhere only ones and twos at Drift Reservoir, Porth Reservoir, Crowdy Reservoir and Colliford Reservoir and four at Stithians Reservoir.

GREENSHANK - Tringa nebularia

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Reports of small numbers were received for all of the county's estuaries in both winter periods. Spring passage was evident from mid-April to mid-June with most moving through May 7th to 16th. Autumn passage commenced with two at Camel Estuary July 7th and proved to be about average. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 16 January 7th, 12 February 11th, 16 March 13th, 20 August 25th, 18 September 8th, 15 October 17th/21st. St Johns Lake: 10 February 7th, 11 August 25th to September 29th, 15 Novem­ ber 13th. Hayle Estuary: 10 March 21st, nine May 10th. Colliford Reservoir: eight May 8th. Upper Tamar Reservoir: eight May 10th, six August 26th. Tamar Estuary: 11 August 8th.

58 Truro River: 14 August 20th, 27 September 10th. Tresillian: 13 August 24th to September 4th. Stithians Reservoir: 12 September 10th to 18th.

GREEN SANDPIPER - Tringa ochropus

Passage migrant. A few winter. Another very poor year - the seventh in succession. Single birds overwintered from 1986 at Argal Reservoir, Cargeen and Hayle Estuary. The last named was joined by another January 11th and both were noted until February 8th with one to April 8th. There were also singles in January at Walmsley Sanctuary, Loe Pool, Stithians Reservoir and Pendarves Nature Reserve. Most were single day sightings and in February apart from the Hayle birds there were singles only at Helford Estuary and Camel Estuary. A total of five singles were reported in spring - all between April 16th and 28th. First in autumn was one at Lanjeth June 27th. There were no more until July 12th and then very few throughout autumn. A total of c.100 birds were reported from 27 localities. Passage apparently ended with one at Crowan Reservoir November 18th. In December there was one at Camel Estuary and two at Hayle Estuary. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Stithians Reservoir: noted July 16th to October 26th with maximum of 12 August 13th. Drift Reservoir: noted July 24th to September 11th with maximum of 10 Sep­ tember 5th Crowan Reservoir: up to three August 4th to October 21st. Colliford Reservoir: five August 23rd. Porth Reservoir: noted August 26th to September 5th with maximum of five September 1st.

WOOD SANDPIPER - Tringa glareola

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). One of the earliest autumn migrants with most moving through in late July and August. A fairly good year. None in spring but c.30 in autumn. Singles unless stated otherwise: Treskilling Clay Pit, Luxulyan: July 22nd. Stithians Reservoir: July 22nd/24th, two or three August 20th to 27th, five August 31st and singles September 9th and 13th. Drift Reservoir: two July 24th/26th, one or two regular August 25th to September 19th but 4 September 5th. Long Rock Pool/Marazion Marsh: August 5th and September 1st. Upper Tamar Reservoir: August 10th. Crowan Reservoir: August llth/16th, one or two regular August 31st to September 10th, one September 22nd. Hayle Kimbro Pool: August 14th/16th and October 19th. Porth Reservoir: August 18th to September 2nd. Crowdy Reservoir: September 5th/9th. Hayle Estuary: two September 7th. Maer Lake, Bude: October 29th.

COMMON SANDPIPER - Actitis hypoleucos

Passage migrant. A few winter. There has been no evidence of breeding in the county since 1910.

59 The only bird overwintering from 1986 was at Camel Estuary but there was also a single at Fowey Estuary during the first winter period. Spring passage commenced with one at Crowdy Reservoir April 15th and ended with one at Hayle Kimbro Pool May 22nd. c.59 birds were reported with a maximum of seven at Stithians Reservoir April 22nd and nine at Upper Tamar Reservoir May 10th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Stithians Reservoir July 1st and ended with one at Widemouth Bay October 31st. Although passage was widespread, numbers were low with most moving through in late July and August. A total of c.246 birds were reported with maximum numbers at: Stithians Reservoir: 14 July 22nd and August 31st, 15 September 4th. Camel Estuary: seven July 22nd, six August 29th. Hayle Estuary: 21 July 25th, eight August 10th. Drift Reservoir: eight July 25th, nine September 10th. Par: six July 26th. Ruan Lanihorne: six July 26th. Upper Tamar Reservoir: seven September 3rd. In November there were singles at Lynher Estuary, Fowey Estuary and Stithians Reservoir. The last mentioned stayed into December as did one at Hayle Estuary.

SPOTTED SANDPIPER - Actitis macularia

Rare vagrant. This is the sixth county mainland record and the first since 1983. Upper Tamar Reservoir: adult summer plumage May 9th to 16th KS.GPS.MDR.et al.

TURNSTONE - Arenaria interpres.

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. After very good numbers in 1985 and 1986 there was a slight reversal in 1987. Records during the first winter period were sparse but there was evidence of a light spring passage in April and May. Last in spring were two at Par June 23rd and the first return birds were ten there July 12th. Most flocks peaked in October with a decrease thereafter to the end of the year. Maximum numbers: Portscatho: 51 overwintered from 1986. 54 February 9th, 43 April 5th, 29 September 21st. Camel Estuary: 95 overwintered from 1986. 96 January 20th and February 20th. 97 March 13th, 40 October 22nd. Par: 54 January 24th, 45 April 28th, 50 August 13th. Looe: 40 March 4th, 100 October 31st. Falmouth: 65 April 20th. Marazion: 86 April 30th. St Johns Lake: 50 May 2nd and October 4th, 95 October 7th. Inland records: Crowdy Reservoir: one April 22nd. Stithians Reservoir: one or two August 14th to September 16th, one December 13th. Drift Reservoir: noted August 25th to September 28th with maximum of 12 September 5th.

Colliford Reservoir: one September 4th to 8th.

WILSON'S PHALAROPE - Phalaropus tricolor

Rare vagrant. This is the 18th county mainland record.

60 Hayle Estuary: one August 31st MS.RM.DSF. et al.Accepted by BBRC.

GREY PHALAROPE - Phalaropus fulicarius Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. One in the first winter period, a fair autumn passage and one in December. Camel Estuary: one January 3rd to 10th. PGA.ML.et al. Tintagel: three west September 22nd JCF Trevose Head: four west September 23rd JCF. Pendeen: one September 24th, five September 26th - all west PAM.JCF. St Ives: one September 25th, 18 October 6th, one October 7th, eight October 8th, four October 10th and two October 21st - all west. MO. Porthpean: one west October 9th RL. Newquay: two October 10th, four October 21st and singles November 21st and December 31st SMC.PAM.LW. Mevagissey: five October 17th, one October 18th RL. Portscatho: one October 18th PAM. Helford Estuary: one October 21st RB. Bude: one October 26th GPS

POMARINE SKUA - Stercorarius pomarinus

Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. A feature of recent springs has been the previously little documented passage of this species off the south coast of Cornwall. 1987 was another very good year with several spring records and a good autumn passage. Bass Point, The Lizard: singles April 19th and October 18th, three October 19th. ARP.DSF. Par: 11 adults flew west April 28th SMC.ABR. Porthgwarra: two May 17th, one August 18th and two October 18th. RBd.DR. Pentewan: seven May 17th and one June 5th. RL. Rame Head: five May 25th, three May 30th and three June 6th. RWG.SJCx. St Ives: one September 2nd, three October 8th and one November 12th. DL.SMC. DJB.DSF.RS. RMV Scillonian: one October 12th. DJB. Mevagissey: five October 18th RL. Rosemullion Head, Falmouth: ten October 18th. BC Several records omitted owing to a lack of conclusive detail.

ARCTIC SKUA - Stercorarius parasiticus

Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced early with a single off Newquay March 27th. A total of 24 birds were reported from six sites but apart from a total of 15 off Rame Head between April 6th and June 6th all reports were of ones and twos.

61 Commencement of autumn passage was barely discernible from the cessation of spring passage but may have started with one at Pentewan June 19th. There were records from 22 localities with peak day counts of 32 October 8th and 103 October 18th after the hurricane. Last were four off St Ives October 21st. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Pentewan: noted June 19th to July 2nd - a total of ten birds involved. Pendeen: three July 19th, 20 August 22nd, 26 September 24th, ten October 8th. Porthgwarra: noted July 30th to October 7th - nine birds involved. St Ives: a total of 89 birds noted on 11 dates between August 3rd and October 21st with maximum of 12 September 7th, 10 September 24th, 13 October 6th, 16 October 7th and 15 October 8th. Rame Head: noted August 9th to October 12th - nine birds involved. Trevose Head: noted August 25th to October 16th - seven birds involved. Newquay: noted August 27th to October 8th - 11 birds involved. Mevagissey: noted September 11th to October 19th - 58 birds involved including 20 October 17th and 22 October 18th. Looe: five October 18th. Rosemullion Head: 63 October 18th. Bass Point, The Lizard: 13 October 18th, 17 October 19th. Lesser numbers elsewhere.

GREAT SKUA - Catharacta skua

Passage migrant. Scarace winter visitor. In the first winter period there were two off St Ives January 2nd. Spring passage commenced with one off Mevagissey March 22nd and ended with two at Pentewan June 7th. A total of ten birds was reported including three each at St Ives and Pentewan. Autumn passage apparently commenced with two west off Porthgwarra July 10th and ended with singles at Bude and Newquay November 12th. There were no December records. Numbers were generally low except for October 8th and 18th when totals of 96 and 104 were reported, respectively. There were sightings at 17 localities with regular reports and maxinum numbers as follows: Porthgwarra: a total of 23 noted on 11 dates between July 10th and October 7th. St Ives: a total of 88 on 11 dates between July 28th and November 1st with maxinum of 14 October 6th and 57 October 8th. Newquay: total of six August 2nd to November 12th. Rame Head: total of 19 August 8th to September 12th including nine on last date. Pendeen: four August 22nd, 11 September 24th, 37 October 8th. Mevagissey: four October 16th, two October 17th, 38 October 18th. Rosemullion Head: 47 October 18th. Bass Point, The Lizard 17 October 18th, 19 October 19th. Lesser numbers elsewhere.

MEDITERRANEAN GULL - Larus melanocephalus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Another fantastic year with records from 24 localities in all parts of the county Mounts Bay: the 1986 adult was present until March 14th, another adult noted February 15th and March 8th. An adult September 24th to November 28th and a first winter September 24th. Camel Estuary: the 1986 second winter remained until March 4th and was joined by a first winter February 2nd to 27th. Single adults July 7th, and September 8th/11th and a second winter September 26th Bude: the 1986 adult remained until January 5th. There were also adults March 13th/14th, September 22nd to October 5th, November 9th into 1988 and another December 30th. There was also a first winter September 28th.

62 Swanpool: second winter January 3rd to 12th and March 3rd. Adults January 12th and July 9th. St Johns Lake/Millbrook: Adults January 15th to February 1st and July 5th to 18th. First winter March 29th, two May 3rd with one to May 9th. Hayle Estuary: adults January 26th/28th, March 2nd to 8th, July 1st and August 20th. two adults October 1st with one to October 12th. one December 9th/10th. Single first winters March 3rd and September 6th to 25th. Second winters August 22nd and October 30th/31st. Helston: adult February 3rd, first winter irregularly February 3rd to March 8th and a second winter March 3rd. Single day sightings were reported as follows: Adults at Siblyback January 4th, East Looe River February 24th, Pendeen August 28th, Lynher Estuary October 8th and Portwrinkle December 6th. First winters at Gwithian February 24th, Stithians Reservoir February 28th, Ruan Lanihorne August 18th, Gannel Estuary and September 29th to October 8th, Torpoint October 7th, Crowan Reservoir December 19th and Ruan Lanihorne December 26th. First summer bird at Restronguet June 3rd. Second winter birds at Devoran June 1st (same as Restronguet bird?) and Towan Head October 11th.

FRANKLIN'S GULL - Larus pipixcan

Very rare vagrant. Helston: a second winter bird February 2nd to March 22nd. ARP et al. The same bird was noted at Hayle Estuary March 24th to 26th LPW.PWA. and at Marazion Marsh March 28th RIA. The third county mainland record - previous records were in 1982 and 1984. Accepted by BBRC.

LITTLE GULL - Larus minutus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. In a poor year for the species there were reports of only seven birds at five sites in the first winter period. All were singles except two at Hayle Estuary and two at St Ives. Spring passage commenced with an adult at Swanpool March 6th and ended with a long-staying first summer bird at Newquay June 8th c.17 birds were reported including three first winters at Hayle Estuary March 17th and a total of four at Millbrook between April 1st and May 31st. Autumn passage commenced with an early bird off Perranporth July 29th and another dead on the beach there the same day. Passage was very light and the last was at Swanpool November 24th. c.43 birds were noted. Most were singles or twos but more regular reports came from: Mounts Bay: singles August 22nd, October 12th and November 7th. St Ives: between.September 7th and November 22nd a total of 20 were noted flying west including four September 24th, six October 6th, three October 8th and three November 22nd. Newquay: one October 8th, two October 9th and one November 12th. Looe: two October 18th, singles October 19th and November 22nd. The only second winter record was one at Bude December 25th.

SABINE'S GULL - Larus sabini

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Another excellent year, although surprisingly few in the wake of the October hurricane. This was despite many hundreds being displaced over much of south and eastern England.

63 As usual several records are omitted because of a lack of sufficient detail or a very generalised description which did not preclude juvenile Kittiwake. Pendeen: adult July 24th KGH. Juvenile September 24th DJB.ABR. ST IVES: adult August 26th GDL. four juveniles September 24th DR.JGS.HWW. nine October 6th SMC.DSF. two October 8th DJB.SMC.BTC.RS et al. and three October 21st PTS. Rumps Point: juvenile west September 10th ML. Par: juvenile September 11th to 16th. RL.GRW.MW.et al. Copperhouse: first winter October 3rd. DSF.IK.DJR.RMS. Newquay: juvenile October 8th SMC.ARB.LW., sub-adult October 16th and an immature October 21st PAM. Looe: juvenile October 8th RWG. Bass Point, The Lizard: juvenile October 18th. Porthgwarra: three juveniles October 18th. DR.

BONAPARTE'S GULL - Larus Philadelphia

Rare vagrant. Mounts Bay: the 1986 bird remained to April 22nd by which time it had acquired summer plumage. DSF et al. On February 23rd DJB noticed that it had a damaged left leg and by April 10th it had a definite limp.MS. During its stay it made occasional day trips and was noted at Drift Reservoir January 8th IK, at Hayle Estuary during stormy weather February 27th DSF and again March 23rd/24th JH.

BLACK-HEADED GULL - Larus ridibundus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Has bred annually at Crowdy Reservoir since 1979 although no young were reported in 1982. Previously breeding was recorded only at Dozmary Pool in 1959 and Stithians Reservoir 1967-69. This year an attempt was made to count sitting birds at Crowdy on May 9th. The total was 90 but there was obviously a number of additional nests hidden by vegetation. Breeding success is not known. JAdEM. Birds were also noted at Colliford Reservoir during the breeding season but there was no evidence of breeding. JAdEM. Maximum numbers: Maer Lake, Bude: 2000 January 4th/5th and November 16th, 4000 December 29th. Camel Estuary: 4650 January 9th, 7000 February 3rd, 2244 March 1st, 2000 July 7th, 5000 September 26th, 3000 October 21st, 1990 November 20th. Ruan Lanihorne: 2000 February 2nd and October 29th. Restronguet: 3000 February 8th. Par: 5000 August 16th, 2500 September 7th, 4000 November 8th/10th. Hayle Estuary: 1850 September 13th, 2500 November 22nd, 1800 December20th. Gannel Estuary: 2300 September 29th. Looe: 2000 December 26th. St Johns Lake: 10000 December 28th, 8000 Decembe31st. There was an interesting reaction to bitterly cold weather February 15th. At 1600 hours a large number of birds flew to Cawsand Bay where the sea tem­ perature was undoubtedly several degrees higher than at the usual roost site in St Johns Lake. RWG. Aberrants included aadult at Newlyn which had pure white primaries in the left wing, an albino at Hayle Estuary, a pure white bird at Par and a very small white bird atSt. Johns Lake. RING-BILLED GULL - Larus delawarensis

Rare winter visitor and passage migrant.

64 First recorded in Cornwall in 1979. Although this species has been removed from the list of birds considered by BBRC, observers are reminded of the need to supply full details of sightings. Any report not accompanied by adequate detail will be omitted. An excellent precis of identification criteria and pitfalls appears in 'British Birds Vol. 81 pps. 126-134' and should be essential reading. Copperhouse: the 1986 third winter bird remained until at least March 21st and returned November 26th, staying into 1988. DSF.LPW.et al. The 1986 first winter period bird was noted sporadically until April 26th and from July 26th into 1988. DSF.LPW.et al. Hayle Estuary: first winter February 16th/17th DSF and adult February 28th PGA.DJC.RJT. (presumably the Copperhouse birds). St Johns Lake/Millbrook: first winter February 28th and March 1st RWG.RS. second summer March 16th DJC. Adult March 8th to April 5th considered female on size RWG.SCM.RS. et al., adult March 21st/22nd considered a male on size RWG.AHJH.RIA.et al., a different adult March 28th SCM. Marazion: first winter March 6th PGA.DJC. Porth Reservoir: adult winter plumage September 23rd RS.SMC. All accepted by BBRC.

COMMON GULL - Larus canus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. A few summer. As usual the largest flocks were recorded as spring migrants moved through during late January and February. The last in spring was one at Swanpool May 27th and the first return bird was at Camel Estuary August 7th. Second winter flocks were small. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 200 January 10th, 485 January 18th, 700 January 25th, 250 March 1st but only 30 March 21st, 57 November 24th. Mounts Bay: 200 January 16th. Par: 1500 January 24th, 1000 January 27th, 400 February 23rd. Ruan Lanihorne: 300 February 4th. Helston: 200/300 February 7th. Looe: 400 December 26th.

100/200 also reported at Hayle Estuary, Porthleven, St Johns Lake and Colliford.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus fuscus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey 1987 pps 113-121 and 'Breed­ ing Seabird Survey Results' in Cornwall 1985 pps. 125-145. In addition to those listed there was a pair at St Anthony Head this year. In the first winter period the only significant number was at Hayle Estuary. Spring passage was light and records in the second half of the year were sparse. Maximum numbers: Hayle Estuary: 320 January 11th, 800 January 27th, 1000 February 9th, 1430 March 22nd, 165 August 13th, 180 December 1st. Camel Estuary: 210 February 27th, 350 March 18th. Par: 180 March 1st. Loe Pool: 150 March 6th, 240 April 7th, 213 December 28th. Upper Fowey Valley: 152 October 7th, 65 November 25th, 31 December 6th. Colliford Reservoir: 300 September 10th, 120 October 2nd, 150 November 6th. 58 at Poldhu January 27th was a very high count locally. 100/200 were also reported from Par, East Looe River and Gannel Estuary. Birds showing characteristics of the North Scandinavian race 'L.f.fuscus' were noted at Camel Estuary March 10th and 18th, Gannel Estuary March 15th and three at Marazion October 15th.

65 Birds showing characteristics of the South Scandinavian race 'L.f.intermedius' were noted at East Looe River January 17th where the majority of 40 birds present were thought to be this race and an adult at Hayle Estuary December 12th.

HERRING GULL - Larus argentatus

Resident. Breeds. Winter visitor. The species seems less common than formerly and any comments would be welcome for this grossly under-recorded species. For breeding records see Breeding Seabirds Survey (pages 113-121) and Breeding Seabirds Survey Results 1985 in Birds in Cornwall 1985 pages 125-145. Additional records this year came from: - seven nests on bunga­ lows, Polwheveral Creek - 12 nests, St Anthony Head - five nests and Nare Head - three nests. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 645 January 8th, 530 November 9th. Newlyn East rubbish tip: 1500 January 8th and 17th. Looe: 1000 December 26th. Birds showing characteristics of the Scandinavian race 'L.a.argentatus' are now recorded annually and with better appreciation of identification criteria will no doubt be reported in increasing numbers. Millbrook: two adults January 18th with one to January 25th. Third winter December 19th. SCM.RWG. East Looe River: adult January 25th and third winter December 28th SCM.RWG. Camel Estuary: adult January 25th DJC. Loe Pool: adults February 8th and October 19th. AHJH.RHP. Par: third year February 23rd PGA.

YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING GULL

Vagrant. The same comments with regard to L.a.argentatus apply here. Birds showing characteristics of the race L.a. michahellis were noted at: Colliford Reservoir: adult October 17th JAdEM. Looe: adult November 15th JAdEM and December 8th SCM.

ICELAND GULL - Larus glaucoides

Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. East Looe River: first winter January 17th SCM Hayle Estuary: first winter February 28th DJC.DR. Mounts Bay: second winter March 15th to 29th CCB.SMC.RIA.BRF.et al. Nanquidno: first winter October 20th JH. Sennen: first winter October 26th PSC.JEC. 1986 correction

Mounts Bay: should read March 3rd not May 3rd.

GLAUCOUS GULL - Larus hyperboreus

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. A very poor year with low numbers in the first half of the year and none in autumn and second winter. Loe Pool: first winter January 7th ARP. Mounts Bay: one January 10th NJC, first winter February 28th and March 14th/15th. Second winter March 14th/15th PGA.CCB. Camel Estuary: first winter February 5th PGA. Copperhouse/Hayle Estuary: first winter sporadically February 27th to April 6th. DSF et al. first winter/first summer May 12th DSF.

66 Coverack: second winter/second summer March 19th to 29th ARP Observers are reminded of the need to age gulls wherever possible. This greatly facilitates the preparation of summaries.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL - Larus marinus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey' pages 113-121 and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results' in 'Birds in Cornwall 1985' pages 125-145. In 1987 a pair bred for the first time at Colliford Reservoir. Unfortunately without a boat to reach the breeding island I was unable to see the nest but on May 22nd I watched a typical incubation changeover by the parents including the incoming bird turning what I assumed were eggs. On subsequent visits I was unable to detect any pulli although they may have been hidden by the long grass. JAdEM. Maximum numbers: Camel Estuary: 170 January 17th, 100 March 15th, 95 November 24th. Par: 150 January 24th, 120 March 1st, 170 December 4th. Poldhu Cove: 100 January 27th, 400 south March 5th. Ruan Lanihorne: 225 October 29th. (The largest flock here since October 1983 GCJ).

KITTIWAKE - Rissa tridactyla

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey' pages 113-121 and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results' in 'Birds in Cornwall 1985' pages 125-145. Additional records this year involved c.400 pairs at Towan Head, Newquay and 25 birds at Port Isaac. Maximum numbers were very low this year: Mevagissey: 1000 per hour March 24th, 650 west in 2Vi hours October 17th and 1000 west in hours October 18th. Perranporth: 100 west in 1/2 hour October 21st. 1986 summary The Editor apologises for inadvertantly omitting this species from last years report. Breeding records with number of pairs in parenthesis: Gulland Island (12+), Marble Cliffs - Porthmissen (3), Ralphs Cupboard (215), Trewavas Head (two colonies of 194 and 33). Birds were also present at Towan Head but not counted. Maximum numbers: Mevagissey: 750 in 1 1/2 hours, 900 October 24th. Newquay: 200 per hour January 23rd, 800 March 20th, 600 March 24th, 1500 per hour October 25th, 2700 in two hours October 29th. Trevose Head: 300 per hour January 23rd. St Ives: 4000 in 1 1/2 hours October 19th, 1900 in 5 1/2 hours October 20th, 1490 in 4 hours October 22nd, 3200 in 5 1/2: hours, 2170 in 4 1/2 hours November 23rd.

GULL-BILLED TERN - Gelochelidon nilotica

Very rare vagrant. Hayle Estuary: an adult April 19th to 26th and May 22nd. DSF.LPW.et al. It had originally been located at Marazion Marsh April 19th and was noted there again April 30th. On April 27th/28th it had wandered to the Skewjack/Nanjizal area. St Johns Lake: An adult which frequented the Plym Estuary for several days visited the Cornwall side of the Tamar Estuary August 31st SGC. Stithians Reservoir: adult October 1st DR. All accepted by BBRC. A quite remarkable year - although all records could relate to the same bird. These constitute the fifth to seventh county mainland records - previous occur­ rences were in 1980, 1968 (two) and 1872.

67 SANDWICH TERN - Sterna sandvicensis

Passage migrant. The first in spring were singles at Mounts Bay and Falmouth Bay March 17th, followed by two at Camel Estuary March 18th and singles at Carlyon Bay and Hayle Estuary March 19th. The main arrival was after March 26th, but few in April, May and June. At least twelve summered in the St Austell/Mevagissey Bay area. Autumn passage was good with sizeable flocks noted until the end of September and records from eleven localities in October - the last being one at Par on 27th. Maximum numbers: Par/St Austell Bay: 30 March 26th, 46 April 17th, 38 April 22nd, 30 May 14th, 42 August 4th, 46 August 12th, 55 September 1st, 85 September 7th, 60 September 13th. St Ives: 25 March 28th Kennack Sands: 35 March 29th. Hayle Estuary: nine March 29th and April 17th, 25 August 25th, 120 flew south-west September 6th, 48 September 19th, 35 September 24th. Rame Head: 32 August 20th. Porthkidney Beach: 43 September 3rd, 73 September 6th. St Johns Lake: 80 September 6th. Pendeen: 110 west September 24th. Looe: 20 west October 18th, 10 west October 19th after the hurricane. Inland there was a single at Drift Reservoir September 17th.

ROSEATE TERN - Sterna dougallii

Scarce passage migrant. Another poor year. Pentewan: one June 11th RL. Par: two sub-adults July 8th, two adults July 14th and 23rd RL. Adult feeding a juvenile August 1st. ABR.GRW.MW. Hayle Estuary: adult October 11th AHJH.MJJ.

68 COMMON TERN - Sterna hirundo

Passage migrant. The first for spring were two at St Ives March 22nd followed by two at Looe March 28th and one at Mounts Bay the same day. Spring passage was very light with records from only twelve sites. Most reports were of single figure flocks. The exceptions were 11 at Mevagissey April 16th and ten on four dates in May at Par. Up to nine may have summered in the area on the last two sites named. Autumn passage was also light apart from good numbers in late June and September 6th. There were c.25 birds reported in October with the last a juvenile displaced by the hurricane at Porth Reservoir October 19th and singles at Looe and Pentewan the same day. Maximum numbers: Pentewan: 43 June 27th, 40 June 28th, 18 July 6th. Par: 52 June 29th, ten September 1st. Hayle Estuary: 20 August 15th, 21 August 16th, 170 flew south-west September 6th. Gerrans Bay: 12 August 14th. Porthkidney Beach: 70 September 6th.

ARCTIC TERN - Sterna paradisaea

Uncommon passage migrant. A very poor spring passage, but many more in autumn including several in July. Par: two May 1st and May 15th, one July 14th to August 2nd and one August 13th. SMC.RL.JAdEM.GRW.MW. Hayle Estuary: four July 3rd, one July 20th, juvenile July 31st, two August 16th. DSF.EGG.GG.DL.MDS. Perranporth Beach: one July 29th DFS. St Ives: juvenile July 31st, three August 1st, one September 19th, adult October 6th, three October 8th, two October 10th. MO. Porthpean: one September 1st RL. Newquay: three September 6th JH. Lower Tamar Reservoir: one September 27th AHJH. Rosemullion Head: juvenile October 18th BC. Newlyn: one October 20th JI

'Commic' terns

There were many reports of terns not specifically identified as Common or Arctic. They included 20 at Mounts Bay May 1st, 80 at St Ives September 2nd, 35 at Porthkidney September 3rd and 18+ at September 30th.

FORSTER'S TERN - Sterna forsteri

Very rare vagrant. Hayle Estuary/St Ives Bay: an adult January 27th to February 3rd DSF et al. It was re-located at Hinckley Point, Somerset February 6th. The third county mainland record - previous records in 1980 and 1982.

LITTLE TERN - Sterna albifrons

Uncommon passage migrant. Very low numbers in both spring and autumn. Bude: singles April 17th and July 19th. Par: seven May 1st, two May 7th and 14th, singles May 21st and August 2nd, three August 22nd. Mounts Bay: 20 May 1st and one September 30th.

69 Falmouth Bay: one May 3rd. Hayle Estuary: one August 2nd and October 8th. Porthkidney Beach: three including two juveniles August 9th to September 3rd. Mevagissey: two August 14th. Camel Estuary: one August 19th. Newquay: four September 6th. Looe: three flew west September 6th.

WHISKERED TERN - Chlidonias hybridus

Very rare vagrant. Stithians Reservoir: adult July 23rd RM. The sixth county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

BLACK TERN - Chlidonias niger

Uncommon passage migrant. In spring there were reports from three localities involving nine birds. Autumn passage commenced early but proved to be very light with only 35/40 birds reported. Bude: five flew north April 17th, singles September 5th to 9th and September 22nd. Upper Tamar Reservoir: three April 19th/20th, one August 4th, three August 6th, two September 22nd with one to 25th. Rame Head: one April 18th. Camel Estuary: adult July 16th. Mounts Bay: one August 30th/31st, two September 1st, singles September 13th and October 3rd. Porthkidney Beach: one September 3rd. Loe Pool: three September 5th, singles September 13th and October 10th. St Ives: eight west September 7th, singles September 24th and October 21st. Hayle Estuary: one September 12th, two September 20th and singles September 22nd and October 20th. Colliford Reservoir: one September 15th. Stithians Reservoir: one September 24th. Pendeen: one September 24th. Porth Reservoir: two October 7th.

GUILLEMOT - Uria aalge

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. For breeding records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey' pages 113-121 and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results' in 'Birds In Cornwall 1985' pages 125-145. Additionally there were 20 pairs at Pentorgan, Boscastle and 30 pairs at Willapark. Very poorly reported away from breeding sites with 50 off St Ives October 8th the only number of note. Unusual were singles at Camel Estuary February 2nd and St Johns Lake March 14th.

RAZORBILL - Alca Torda

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. For breeding season records see 'Breeding Seabirds Survey' pages 113-121 and 'Breeding Seabirds Survey Results' in 'Birds in Cornwall' 1985 pages 125-145. Additional reports came from: Samphire Island to Western Cove - ten nests, Navax Point to Deadmans Cove - 34 nests, near Port Isaac - two colonies each with 25 adults present, one site with four young and the other with 11 young. Very few records away from breeding areas. Maximum passage numbers: Rame Head: 31 east March 8th, 30 May 4th. St Ives: 500 October 8th.

70 Trevose Head: 2500 west in one hour October 16th.

Auk sp

Passage of auks (Razorbill/Guillemot) not specifically identified was reported from: Rame Head: 50 April 26th. Pentewan: 2000 west in one hour October 9th, 220 west in \ x/i hours October 11th. Pendeen: 240 west September 26th. Mevagissey: 350 west in 2Vi hours October 17th, 800 west in 4 hours October 18th. Towan Head: 500 west in one hour October 24th. St Ives: 1000 west November 1st. Trevose Head: 3200 west in 3 hours November 10th.

LITTLE AUK - Alle alle

Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Occasional 'wrecks'. A poor year. St Ives: one, plus three probables October 6th SMC.DSF.ABR. Godrevy: one October 8th MS

PUFFIN - Fratercula arctica

Summer resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Breeding season reports were received for: The Moules: noted April 17th to July 26th with a maximum of 11 May 19th/21st. This is a slightly more optimistic picture than that revealed by the 'Breeding Seabirds Survey' see pages 113-121. Short Island: numbers seemed quite good with probably 20 pairs mainly on the seaward side. Mullion Island: one June 21st.An interesting report insofar as the species has bred here, but not apparently for a century or more. Passage birds were reported as follows: Rame Head: 22 April 26th. Porthgwarra: a total of 31 noted on seven dates May 17th to August 20th with maximum of 15 first date. St Ives: one July 28th, three September 12th. Pendeen: two August 22nd, one September 24th. Godrevy: one September 26th.

FERAL ROCK DOVE - Columba livia

Resident. Breeds. Pure Rock Doves may still survive on some of the more remote parts of the North coast but all records this year relate to Feral Pigeons. Largest flocks reported: Rame Head: January 1st. Millbrook: 96 January 24th. Trevalga: 30 May 8th. Upper Fowey Valley: 20 May 24th. Par: 20 September 8th. Trevose Head: 90 October 24th.

STOCK DOVE - Columba oenas

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Very few records received suggesting a reduced population. Confirmed breeding only at Upper Fowey Valley (three pairs), Camel Estuary and in North Cornwall where the species is described as widespread by TJD. Numbers in the first winter period were particularly low with three at Talland Bay March 4th the maximum.

71 Autumn passage was virtually non-existent with six at Porthgwarra the only report of note. In the second winter period the only records were of four sightings at St Minver in December.

WOODPIGEON - Columba palumbus Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Few actual counts received but no reason to suspect any change in status. The largest flocks were all noted during January and no doubt involved mainly cold weather movement flocks. Autumn passage was very poor and there were low numbers in the second winter period. Millbrook: 200 January 6th. Retyn, Summercourt: 500 January 9th. Trispen: 800 January 17th. Upper Fowey Valley: 60 March 28th, 87 November 14th. Rosewarne: 75 April 11th. Trevose Head: 50 September 23rd, 70 October 24th.

COLLARED DOVE - Streptopelia decaocto

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The species was first noted on the Cornish mainland in 1959 and populations built up to ta peak in the late 1970's, since when there has been a levelling off in numbers and a decrease in many areas. This decrease was noted in 1987 at Crantock, Gerrans, St Columb Major, Newquay and in the Truro/Falmouth district. The reason for this decrease is not known but one possible cause may be related to the species' removal from the list of birds protected by law. Any comment would be welcomed. No flocks were reported in the first winter and spring until 30 at Nanquidno May 7th which may have been migrants. Other migrants were singles at Boswednack April 15th and May 5th and two in off the sea at Par May 9th. In autumn the largest flock was at Antony where 45 had congregated August 29th and 30/35 were regular to October 12th. Elsewhere there was a flock of 40 at Marazion October 26th and possible migrants included: 12 at St Keverne September 13th and singles at Trevose Head September 23rd and Boswednack November 18th. TURTLE DOVE - Streptopelia turtur Passage migrant. Bred in 1981 and possibly in 1978 and 1977. Summering birds are not unusual but winter records are exceptionally rare. 1987 proved to be the worst year since 1982. A very poor spring passage commenced with one at Marazion March 28th. There followed reports from 21 sites involving a mere 39 birds. Almost one half were noted April 25th/30th and all ones or twos except four at Rame Head April 26th, four at St Erth April28th, three at Caerthillian April 29th and three at Nanquidno May 7th. In summer there were five at Skewjack June 13th and one at Hayle July 2nd. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Chapel Amble August 7th. There were reports from 11 localities involving a paltry 16 birds with a maximum of four at Trevose Head September 19th. The last were singles at The Lizard November 8th and Holmbush, St Austell where one fed daily with Collared Doves. (C.f. similar record in 1984)

RING-NECKED PARAKEET - Psittacula krameri Vagrant. Escape. Rosecraddock. : one September 30th RH. (Also a probable at Cot Valley September 26th DR).

72 Pied Flycatcher nesting at Washaway, Nr. Bodmin Photo: Adrian Langdon Egyptian Goose at Wadebridge, Autumn '87 Photo: Adrian Langdon

Kittiwakes at Huers Hut Colony, Newquay Photo: Adrian Langdon Ring Ouzel, Widegates Photo taken 1st February The first county mainland record of this Category C species.

CUCKOO - Cuculus canorus

Summer resident (declining?). Breeds. Passage migrant. The first in spring was at Upper Fowey Valley April 2nd but there were no more until one at Lands End April 16th. There were widespread arrivals of small numbers April 16th to 28th and May 2nd to 9th. At The Lizard ARP noted several singles April 26th to May 6th but subsequently rather scarce and PRW reported a good arrival in West Cornwall April 27th. There was a paucity of breeding records including Bodmin Moor where JAdEM considered the breeding population depleted. Autumn passage was sparse with only eight birds reported including a dead juvenile at St Columb. The last was one at The Lizard September 13th. The last was a brown phase bird as were singles at Gunwalloe April 20th and Rame Head September 13th.

BARN OWL - Tyto alba

Resident. Breeds. Loss of breeding sites, loss of habitat, pesticides, increased road traffic and a series of cold weather have all taken their toll of this species. In 1987 there were reports from only 62 sites - the lowest for many years, with breeding confirmed at only twelve. Of those that did breed, success appears to have been very limited. In the St. Columb-St Wenn-St. Eval area five nests were located but the maximum number of young in any nest was two. This was also reflected outside the breeding season with many fewer sightings than normally. SMC. In North Cornwall TJD reports the species as virtually unseen despite several reports from farmers that birds are still about. At St. Eval a bird was noted to have the right side of its face disfigured and an eye missing. GRW.MW.

LITTLE OWL - Athene noctua

Scarce resident. Breeds. A slight improvement on 1986 but the population remains vulnerable. Successful breeding was reported from Bastreet where two young were seen June 24th, Black Rock and Rame Head where single juveniles were seen and at Mullion. Elsewhere: Ninemaidens Downs, Four Lanes: singles regular April 14th to August 21st but two April 23rd. Porthcothan Bay: singles April 17th and September 28th. Minions: two May 31st, one June 14th. Crantock: one June 5th. Crowan Reservoir: one June 7th and 9th. Cawsand Bay: one June 10th. Croft Mitchell: two June 10th, one September 13th. Bolingey, Perranporth: singles July, August and December Halvanance, Sithney: one October 7th. Reskajeage: one October 23rd. Tywardreath: one October 26th/27th.

TAWNY OWL - Strix aluco

Resident. Breeds.

73 Very few records received and breeding reported from only eight localities. Apart from on the Lands End peninsula where there were no records west of Marazion and at The Lizard where there were no records south of Loe Pool, there appears to be a fairly widespread population.

LONG-EARED OWL - Asio otus

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in 1985, 1934, 1927 and 1924. Probably bred in the Upper Fowey Valley in 1976 after a large influx into the U.K. the previous autumn. Camel Estuary: one March 6th DL.

Widemouth Bay: one April 12th HFG fSHORT-EARED OWL - Asio flammeus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Occasional good years. Bred in several years in the 1940's and almost certainly near Foxhole in 1983. 1987 was the worst year for this species in Cornwall since 1981 with a mere 19 birds reported from 14 localities. Most were noted in the first winter and spring. There were six in autumn but none overwintering into 1988. Black Rock: one January 14th. Marazion Marsh: one January 17th. Tregonetha: one January 25th to February 10th. Near Zennor: two February 15th, four February 16th. Crowdy Reservoir: one February lOth/llth. St Eval: one February 16th to March 20th but two April 4th. Lower Tamar Lake: one March 6th. Pendeen: one March 12th. Penhale Sands: one April 27th. Porthgwarra: two October 23rd with one October 24th. Colliford Reservoir: one October 24th. Skewjack: one October 25th. Near Kynance: one November 1st. Hells Mouth: one November 21st.

NIGHTJAR - Caprimulgus europaeus

Scarce summer resident. Breeds in very low numbers at traditional sites. Occasional passage migrant. Coverage of breeding sites was poor but there seems to have been little change on 1986 numbers. West Penwith: noted from June 10th with a maximum of four churring males. Near Bodmin: noted from June 5th. One pair probably bred. Near Lostwithiel: pair July 2nd. Lizard: pair May 27th/28th, two males June 3rd, three males June 4th and two males and a female June lOth/llth. Bodmin Moor: three churring males July 14th.

CHIMNEY SWIFT - Chaetura pelagica

Exceptionally rare vagrant. Near Probus: one October 18th. PAM. The third record for mainland Cornwall - the previous two having occurred at Porthgwarra in 1982. Accepted by BBRC.

74 SWIFT - Apus apus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The first was a single at Nanstallon April 18th. There followed reports of small numbers to the end of April but the first double figure flock was 20 at Stithians May 1st. Largest numbers arrived May 10th to 14th with peaks of 100 at Colliford on 10th and 400 there on 14th, and 200 at Marazion Marsh and St John May 13th. Later in the month there was heavy passage along the coast at Trevalga on 24th, whilst in the Upper Fowey Valley the same day JAdEM noted large flocks moving North. This passage continued throughout the day and at any one time up to 500 birds were visible. On May 27th 100 were at Rame Head and on 29th 150 were estimated at Hayle. Breeding records were sparse and success may have been low due to the dismal early summer weather. Most birds had departed by mid August. Passage probably went un-noticed in the much improved weather of late July/early August for there were no counts of more than 40 birds. In September there was one at Pentewan on 2nd and October records con­ sisted of singles at on 4th, Porthgwarra the same day and Rame Head on 11th.

ALPINE SWIFT - Apus melba

Rare vagrant. Tintagel: one September 21st JCF. The eleventh record for the county mainland. Recorded in three consecutive years. Accepted by BBRC.

KINGFISHER - Alcedo atthis

Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. After the series of cold winters local populations are at a very low level.Breeding was not proved at any site but birds were present in the breeding season at Golitha Falls and Respryn on the and at Grogley on the . Birds at Treskilling Clay Pit, Luxulyan and Par River during June may have been failed breeders or early migrants. In the first winter and spring period there were reports from 16 localities, all singles except two at Camel Estuary January 18th, Landulph January 23rd and Tresillian regularly. three were noted at Camel Estuary January 9th and a pair were displaying at Upper Tamar Reservoir February 16th. Autumn passage commenced in late July. Singles were noted at 19 localities and two each at Tresillian, Camel Estuary, Porth Reservoir and Bude. Many of these remained into November but the only reports for December concerned singles at Hayle Estuary, Camel Estuary, Porth Estuary, Par and Perranporth. Although BP reports it as much scarcer than it used to be at Marazion, one at St Just-in-Roseland October 1st was the first for two years EMP.LSP. and one at Pentewan October 12th was the first for three years. RL.

BEE-EATER - Merops apiaster

Rare vagrant. Trevose Head: five or six June 15th. RM. The 62nd to 66th county mainland records. There have been a number of multiple occurrences including a flock of 15 in 1985.

75 Accepted by BBRC.

HOOPOE - Upupa epops

Scarce passage migrant. All singles. Ladock: April 8th JD. Rosudgeon: April 16th JGT. : April 17th per SW. Sennen: April 17th MAJA. Lizard: April 17th BC and April 23rd to 26th DW.PW.ARP.HCP. Kelynack, St Just: April 21st ICW. Porthgwarra: April 21st/22nd DSF.SB.DMY. Penberth Cove: May 4th IRM. Dodman Point: T. Thorpe per BA. Holywell Bay: October 30th HA.

WRYNECK - Jynx torquilla

Scarce passage migrant. Another very good year. Singles unless stated otherwise. Kenidjack: April 17th ARB. St Columb Major: September 10th to 16th SMC.ADC. et al. Porthgwarra: September 13th to 16th. MS.JH. et al. St Austell: two, 3/4 miles apart September 17th SJC. Lands End: two October 1st ICW. Lizard: October 4th and October 21st to 31st BC.JC. Navax Point: October 24th PAR. 1986 record. Near Antony: one found dead in road August 6th now at Plymouth Museum. A.R. Pearce.

GREEN WOODPECKER - Picus viridus

Resident. Breeds. (Declining?). Grossly under-reported. There were records from 44 localities during the year and although there were no reports of any change in status there does appear to have been a decrease over the last ten years, with, in particular, many fewer coastal records. Any comment would be welcome. Breeding season records came from only 11 localities but no instances of confirmed breeding were reported. At Rame Head on August 14th one narrowly avoided an attack by a Pere­ grine. RWG.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopus major

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. (Declining?). As with Green Woodpecker, grossly under-reported with records from only 38 localities during the year. Breeding season reports were fewer than in 1986 and there were no records of confirmed breeding. It appears that the population and distribution of this species reached a peak in the late 1970's and early 1980's after the onslaught of Dutch Elm disease. The disease evidently provided an abundant food source which has subsequently disappeared as trees have decayed and become sterile. There has been a parallel decrease in the numbers of Green Spotted Woodpeckers.

76 This reduction was noted in 1987 by JD.SMC.EMP.LSP. and JAdEM who reports no post-breeding dispersal in the Upper Fowey Valley this year. There were no reports of migrants but one in a hawthorn bush at Hayle Kimbro May 31st was out of sight of any trees. ARP.

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER - Dendrocopus minor

Scarce resident. Breeds. Breeding has not been proved in the county since 1980, but undoubtedly goes un-noticed. In view of the relative scarcity of the preceding two species it is rather surprising that this was the best year for this species since 1982. Singles unless stated: Marazion Marsh: January 23rd DL. Carnanton, St Columb: February 19th ABR. Trelissick: March 17th and April 1st. JD. Landulph: April 1st AHJH. Cotehele: pair displaying April 4th had been noted for several days previously. RS. Nanswhyden, St Columb: September 29th SMC. Trenant Wood, Looe: October 1st and December 13th. NJC.JMR. Bone Valley, Heamoor: November 30th PRW.

SHORT-TOED LARK - Calandrella brachydactyla

Rare vagrant. Reskajeage: one November 8th to 10th DSF.ARP.PAR.MS.CNT. Possibly present since 4th and probably two on 9th. The ninth county mainland record. Accepted by BBRC.

77 Formerly much more common with breeding season records from many parts of the county, there has been a gradual but continued contraction in range over the last 20-30 years. There has been no breeding season report away from the far east of the county since 1981 and breeding has only been proved in recent years in 1983 and 1968. Bohetherick/Cotehele: one or two March 8th to May 31st. AHJH.SMC.BTC.PSC. JEC. Harrowbarrow: singles April 1st and 19th, June 24th and October 1st. PSC.JEC. Calstock: one May 31st which may have wandered across from the Devon side, AHJH. Porthgwarra: five flew east October 23rd DSF.ML.JH.

SKYLARK - Alauda arvensis

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. In the first winter period flocks were generally small with no evidence of cold weather movements. Apart from 40 at Trevose Head April 25th there were no other spring records of migrants. Autumn passage was light with most moving through October 22nd to November 9th. Maximum numbers: Reskajeage: 100 October 23rd, 500 October 30th to November 6th, 600 November 8th to 22nd, 330 December 12th. Trevose Head: 240 October 29th, 250 November 2nd. Porthgwarra: 157 flew south west October 22nd, 156 flew south October 23rd. 100/200 were also noted at Rame Head, St Ewe, Walmsley Sanctuary and Cligga Head, Perranporth.

SAND MARTIN - Riparia riparia

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms roosts with Swallows at tradi­ tional sites in autumn. There has been a well documented 'crash' in population levels nationally over the last twenty years. This reduction, of up to 90% in many areas is related to continued drought in the wintering areas in Africa. However recent heavy rains should prove beneficial and there does appear to be a slight improvement on the rock bottom figures for 1984/85. The first in spring was one at Marazion Marsh March 22nd. Small numbers were reported to the end of the month, but the only large gatherings during April were 150 at Marazion on 1st and 100 at Tamar Lakes on 7th/8th. Autumn passage was apparent from August 3rd to October 3rd when two were noted at Par. It was unspectacular with reports from only 12 sites. The maximum were 25 at Kynance August 29th and 30 roosting at Par September 15th. A comparison of recent breeding numbers is given in the table below but some sites are poorly documented and a blank does not necessarily indicate that the species was absent.

1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 Marhamchurch c.10 prs — — Porthilly, Camel Estuary 4 prs. — — — — — Bude Breakwater lpr. — small colony — — — Maidenwell, Bodmin Moor 9 prs. 20 prs. — — —

78 Treskilling Clay Pit 70 prs. 60 prs. 25 prs. 12 prs. 20/25 prs. 25/30 prs. Gunwalloe Church Cove 35 prs. 20/21prs. 14 prs. 'few' 5 holes 15 prs. Loe Bar — lpr. lpr. 7 prs. 20 prs? 12 at holes Ventongimps — 'few7 site destroyed — — Praa Sands — c.12 prs. — — — — Germoe — 4+ prs. — — — — Canworthy Water — sev.prs — — — — Widemouth Bay — 20/25prs. — — — — Sparnock, Baldhu — — c.6 prs. — — — Hawkstor Clay Pit — — — — 15 prs. — Gwithian — — — — — 'small colony' Poldhu Cove — — — — — 8/9 prs.

SWALLOW - Hirundo rustica

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Forms large roosts at traditional localities in autumn. There were no reports of any of the December 1986 birds remaining into the New Year. The first for spring was one at Downderry March 25th followed by singles at Landulph and College Reservoir March 29th. There were no other March records and exceptionally small numbers throughout April. Main passage occurred in May but even then few were seen with 150 at Marazion May 4th and 26th the only flocks over 50. Breeding season records were sparse but indications were of a fairly good year. Autumn roosts: Par: 800 August 17th rising to 2500 September 1st and 3600 September 13th/15th with a decrease thereafter. Marazion Marsh: 500 August 17th to 22nd. Okeltor, Calstock: 600 August 17th. Harlyn Bay: 200 August 30th. Bude Nature Reserve: 300 September 19th. In late August EGe reported 'exceptional concentrations' on The Lizard including many hundreds at Mullion and 300 at Kynance. In October there were maxima of 100 at Trevose Head October 3rd and 200 flying south at Lizard Church Cove on 16th. 28 birds were reported from 5 sites in November and the last were two at Penzance December 12th.

RED-RUMPED SWALLOW - Hirundo daurica

Rare vagrant. All singles. Kenidjack: October 27th ARB.DSF.SB.MS. Polhawn Cove, Rame Head: juvenile October 28th LACT. Porthmear, Zennor: November 5th DSF. Marazion: three November 5th-7th per BBRC. Several others are believed to have occurred in West Cornwall but no details received. These were merely the tip of an iceberg involving at least 60 indi­ viduals nationally. The 9th to 14th county mainland records and the first since 1983. All accepted by BBRC.

79 HOUSE MARTIN - Delichon urbica

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Despite several birds in December 1986 none was reported as overwintering into the New Year. First arrivals were small numbers at Tamar Lakes March 30th with one at Wadebridge the following day. Although birds were widespread throughout April there was no concentration of note until 100 at Pentewan on 30th. Heaviest passage occurred late in May. On 22nd 50 flew east at Porthgwarra and 85 flew east at Skewjack. On 23rd there was a large concentration at Helston Sewage Works and many in off the sea at Kynance. On 24th there was a heavy passage through the Upper Fowey Valley as birds moved with Swifts. Highest counts however were made at Marazion where there were 200 on 26th, 250 on 27th and 50 on 28th. Breeding season reports were about average with the largest colony being 50 nests at Doyden House, Port Quin. JAdEM comments that the species is very quick to exploit new breeding sites on Bodmin Moor. In 1987 a new bungalow at Ninestones and a new farmhouse at Dozmary Pool were both colonised. Cliff nesting was reported from Rocky Valley, Bossinney and Portreath (two nests) TJD. Autumn passage commenced in late August and proved generally light. The last were four at Penzance November 26th. The maximum included 200 at Perranporth September 2nd, 200 at Rame Head September 27th and 300 at Caerhays the same day. 100/150 were noted at Bude, Pentewan, Tregony, Portmellon, Menabilly and Trevose Head.

RICHARD'S PIPIT - Anthus novaeseelandiae

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Annual since 1974. A good year, including the third December record for Cornwall. Porthgwarra: one September 20th AHJH. 2 September 28th PAM. 1 October 17th CCB and one or two October 25th DSF. P.J. Grant. L. Jonsson. K.Mullarney.

80 Lizard: one flew southeast September 26th BC.ARP. Lands End: one September 29th ICW. Porth Mear: one flew west October 1st SMC. Rame Head: one first winter October 20th SGC. Bude: one flew south November 18th IK. Perranporth: one December 30th to January 3rd 1988. DFS.

TAWNY PIPIT - Anthus campestris

Rare passage migrant (mainly autumn). Annual since 1979. Trevose Head: one flew west September 19th SMC. Porthgwarra: three September 26th DR. Botallack: adult September 26th JCF.

TREE PIPIT - Anthus trivialis

Breeds (mainly on heaths and in plantations in mid and east of the county). Summer resident. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with one at Mullion April 6th followed by two on breeding territory at Breney Common April 14th. Only twenty migrants were reported with the last at Trevose May 10th. Of the twenty, six were at Trevose Head, five at The Lizard and three at Kenidjack. Breeding season records were received for many of the traditional sites including a number of localities on Bodmin Moor. Other sites included Kit Hill, Seaton, Redmoor, Breney Common, St Cleer Common, Bodmin Radio Station, near Summercourt, Ventongimps Moor, Treskilling and Goonhilly Downs. Maximum numbers were eight at Halvana and Bodmin Radio Station and six at Kit Hill. Autumn passage commenced with seven at Rame Head/Penlee Point August 23rd and two at The Lizard the same day. After the exceptional passage of 1986, numbers were average this year with a total of c.81 birds at 20 localities. Of these, 36 were noted August 28th to 31st and eleven October 1st to 3rd. Passage throughout September was virtually non-existent. Maximum numbers: Rame Head: six August 23rd, five August 30th and September 27th. Kenidjack: 15 August 29th. Trevose Head: four September 30th. Lands End: four October 1st. Porth Mear: five October 1st. Last was one at Trevose Head October 3rd.

MEADOW PIPIT - Anthus pratensis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. In the first winter period very few were reported with 35 at Trevose Head January 21st and 20 at Lanhydrock February 21st the maximum. At Holmbush there was 30 March 7th which may have been migrants. Very little breeding season information was received although there was no evidence of any change in status. Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Trevose Head August 15th and four flying south at Par August 29th. There was little migratory activity during September until the last week of the month. There was a smaller, less widespread passage October 10th to 12th and another October 20th to 23rd. There were no reports after November 18th. Maximum numbers: Rame Head: 400 September 26th and 27th. 250 October 11th. Kynance: 102 September 26th. 200 September 27th. Lizard: 880 September 27th. 250 October 4th. 200 October 20th. Caerthillian: 380 flew south September 27th.

81 Sennen: 200 September 27th. Porthgwarra: 200 September 28th. 150 November 1st. Zennor: 200 September 28th. Trevose Head: 220 September 30th. 200 October 11th. 100/200 were seen at Bude, Barripper, Gurnards Head, Pentire and Goonbell. The Lizard count of September 27th is the highest in the county since 1982. It now seems customary for peak passage to occur in the seven day period September 25th to October 2nd.

ROCK PIPIT - Anthus petrosus

Resident. Breeds. Very rare inland. Passage migrants are occasionally identified and in recent years these have included birds of distinctive Scandinavian race ' Anthus spinoletta littoralis.' Critical examination of Rock Pipits, particularly those encountered inland, may reveal further examples of this race. Many more records of Rock Pipit were received this year, suggesting a healthy population on all parts of the coast. As a species feeding almost exclusively in mari­ time habitat it does not appear to have been affected by the recent cold winters. Small flocks included ten at Looe March 18th and twenty there October 26th and 22 at Porthleven November 16th.

SCANDINAVIAN ROCK PIPIT

Looe: two March 14th SCM

Previous records occurred in 1984 (two), 1975, 1969 and 1877.

WATER PIPIT - Anthus spinoletta

Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Formerly a sub-species of Rock Pipit but now accepted as a full species. Small numbers are recorded annually at traditional sites such as Marazion Marsh, Landulph Marsh and Camel Estuary. Migrants turn up almost anywhere. 1987 was a relatively poor year but note the excellent spring passage at Landulph Maer Lake, Bude: one from 1986 to January 10th. one December 6th, two December 9th and one into 1988.IK Porthpean: one January 1st to March 26th.RL Landulph Marsh: two January 2nd to 18th, three February 7th, four March 8th, seven April lst.SMC.PSC.AHJH.SCM. one November 15th AHJH Marazion Marsh: singles January 4th, February 22nd and March 30th. RIA.CCB. BP. Camel Estuary: one January 24th. SMC Hayle Kimbro Pool: one November 6th. BC Porthleven: one November 15th. RHP YELLOW WAGTAIL - Motacilla flava

Passage migrant. Forms roosts in autumn at Marazion, Par and Loe Pool (and probably elsewhere). Bred almost annually 1956 - 1965 (and sporadically prior to that), but not since. Occasional variants, notably Blue-headed Wagtail, occur. Spring passage commenced with a male at Marazion April 10th and ended with a male at the same site June 9th. c.55 birds were reported from ten sites. Most reports concerned single birds but there was a total of eleven at Marazion, 3 at Lower Tamar Lake and an incredible 28 at Bude May 11th. This last flock would appear to be the largest spring gathering on record for Cornwall. At Porthgwarra a very late spring, or very early autumn migrant flew in off the sea and off north July 10th. Another early bird was at Stithians July 31st but main autumn passage commenced August 15th. c.450 birds were involved at 32 localities making it the heaviest passage since 1982.

82 A few moved through August 23rd/24th, there was a substantial passage August 28th/31st and regular movements until September 20th. Small numbers continued to move through until October 9th with the last one at The Lizard October 20th. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: August 23rd to October 4th with max 16 August 24th increasing to 40 on 30th and 50 on 31st. c.60 birds involved. Lizard August 23rd to October 20th with max six August 28th, 24 September 13th and eight September 20th. c.43 birds involved. Marazion: 14 August 28th. St Levan: 20 August 30th. Bude: 10 August 30th. Par: August 30th to September 24th with max 12 September 17th. c.22 birds involved. Northcott Mouth 15 September 2nd and 12 September 7th. Gwithian: 73 September 4th. Porthleven: 30 flew south September 7th. 1986 record

Gunwalloe: male July 2nd may have been indicative of local breeding. ARP

BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL Uncommon passage migrant. Males of the nominate race 'Motacilla flava flava' which breeds over much of France, are recorded annually, but females probably go largely undetected. Stithians Reservoir: male July 27th.CNT

GREY WAGTAIL - Motacilla cinerea

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant (mainly autumn). Very little information received for the first half of the year but appears to have survived the freeze intact. There were no reports of any decrease during the breeding season, although reports west of Truro were sparse. Autumn migrants are difficult to discern but passage may have commenced with three at Stithians Reservoir August 10th and continued to about November 7th. There was a relatively even spread of records throughout this period with small peaks September 9th to 13th and 22nd to 29th. The total number of birds involved was in the region of 100/120. The maximum included seven at Bude August 18th, ten at Stithians September 13th, six at Hayle September 20th, six at Porthgwarra September 22nd, c.20 at The Lizard during September and six at Porth Mear October 1st.

PIED WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba yarrelli common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Forms roosts, some of which are well established, in autumn and winter. Records for the first half of the year were few. The first winter maximum was 23 at Helston February 15th, whilst spring passage apparently consisted of 20 at Par March 27th and three at Trevose Head April 25th. Breeding was poorly documented but there was no reason to suspect any change in status. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 30 at Stithians August 10th and ended with 15 at Maer Lake, Bude November 11th. Flocks were generally quite small with maxima of 60 at Boscawen, Truro September 13th, 60 at Pentewan September 14th, 90 at Par September 15th and 100 at Devoran October 25th. A roost at Gwithian was occupied from August 29th to October 30th holding a peak of 86 birds October 5th. A small casual roost at Upper Fowey Valley attracted c.10 birds November 10th. The only large flock reported for the second winter period was 40 at St Columb Sewage Works December 26th.

83 WHITE WAGTAIL - Motacilla alba alba

Passage migrant. The nominate form of 'Motacilla alba' breeding throughout Europe. Spring passage commenced with three at Marazion April 4th and ended with four at the same location May 5th. c.31 birds were noted at only four sites. Of these, 25 were at Marazion. In autumn c.500 birds were reported from 10 sites. Of this seemingly high total, 200 were at Marazion September 7th, 40 at St. Just September 11th and 188 at Kynance September 19th.

WAXWING - Bombycilla garrulus

An irruptive species which occurs in Cornwall as a very rare winter visitor and passage migrant. 1987 was a comparatively good year for this species in many parts of the U.K. so perhaps two in Cornwall was a little disappointing. Nevertheless there have now been records in each of the last three years after a four year gap. The last major irruption into Cornwall was in 1965. Upper Metherall, near : one January 13th J Wickstead per RS. Helston: one February 1st and 2 per EGe

DIPPER - Cinclus cinclus

Scare resident (mainly mid and East Cornwall). Breeds. In 1987 good coverage was achieved particularly in mid Cornwall. Breeding was proved at 19 sites and probably at two others. As always the nucleus of breeding pairs was centred on Bodmin. There were also four pairs in the Golitha Falls to Bolventor area, two pairs in the Boscastle area and one pair each at Rosenannon, Trethurgy, , Stithians and Idless. Breeding was probable at Constantine, Falmouth. East of Bodmin Moor there were no reports of successful breeding on the despite a good number of sightings. A similar situation exists on the upper reaches of the Rivers Camel and Tamar and any information would be most welcome. Unusual reports included singles at June 7th and November 28th, Drift Reservoir in September and Penryn October 8th. Despite this optimistic report TJD considers that none now occurs at Morwenstow. 1986 - A further six pairs successfully bred in the Bodmin area. FMC

WREN - Troglodytes troglodytes

Abundant resident. Breeds. PR reported the species as 'very scarce' in the Portscatho area and MPV saw very few at Perranwell Station but generally the species was thought to have survived the cold spell without loss. On Bodmin Moor JAdEM considered breeding numbers up to normal with an average of 10 - 12 pairs per one square kilometer.

DUNNOCK - Prunella modularis

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Very little information received but evidently did not fare too well at Perranwell Station where few were seen by MPV and at Long Rock where BP trapped only one young bird during September compared with a norm of 8 - 10. 14 at Trevose Head September 30th and 35 at Kenidjack October 12th may have included some migrants.

84 ROBIN - Erithacus rubecula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Another species which survived the cold winter well with the only adverse comment from JD who considered it much scarcer in mid Cornwall. Autumn migrants were noted September 15th to November 1st. They included 20+ in the St Levan/Porthgwarra area September 15th and 30 around Rame Head November 1st. On October 31st EGe noted a heavy influx on the Lizard peninsula which included 16 at Church Cove, eight at Soapy Cove and 41 near Kynance (where the norm is two or three).

NIGHTINGALE - Luscinia megarhynchos

Rare passage migrant. Although there is a small breeding population annually in East Devon this species has only once been proved to breed in Cornwall, and that was in 1940. In 1978 a male was heard singing for six weeks at a site in West Cornwall and in 1984 a male was heard singing for three days in mid June at a site near Bude. Kenidjack: one singing April 19th DF.ARB.MPB. Coldrose Farm, Truro: one May 8th GHT. Records in each of the last four years

BLACK REDSTART - Phoenicurus ochruros

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Bred sporadically mainly in the 1940's and 1950's in the Perranporth area. In 1986 a pair with three full grown young were seen at Perranporth but there was no evidence that they were locally bred birds. In 1987 a juvenile was seen at Colliford July 12th by AHJH and JAdEM causing much speculation as to its' origins. High numbers in December 1986 were maintained into January. 24 birds were reported during the month including at least eight which has overwintered. Most reports were of singles but there was four at Castle Beach, Falmouth January 3rd and two each at Porthpean and Godrevy. Apart from 1 at Bodmin Radio Station all reports were coastal and liberally scattered throughout the county. The vast majority of January birds were probably merely migrating through the county ahead of the freeze because most moved through very quickly. The exceptions were generally those which had overwintered. There was another small movement of single day/birds February 14th to 25th. A total of six birds were involved. Spring passage was noted March 11th to April 29th with all of the overwintering birds departing March 12th to 25th. 25 birds were involved in the spring passage, all singles except three at Soapy Cove March 14th, three at Caerthillian April 26th, three singles at Godrevy, two each at Kenidjack and Lands End and two singles at Trevose Head. Autumn passage commenced with one at Porthgwarra September 26th and continued until mid November. A total of c.95 birds was reported from 38 sites (an increase on 1986 and 1985 but well down on the record year of 1982). 60% moved through October 25th to November 1st, Most reports were of ones and twos but larger numbers included a total of eight at Porthgwarra September 26th to October 31st, seven at Rame Head October 23rd to November 14th, three at Poldhu October 23rd, at least six at Kynance October 27th to November 4th, at least 14 at The Lizard October 29th to November 6th, four at St Just October 30th, three at Falmouth October 31st and three at Trevose Head November 7th. Second winter records concerned singles only at Trelissick, Polkerris, Falmouth, Charlestown and Trevail with three at Bude.

85 REDSTART - Phoenicurus phoenicurus

Uncommon summer resident, almost exclusively restricted to Bodmin Moor and the broadleaved woodlands around Bodmin. Breeds. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with single males at Lizard, Lands End and Kenidjack April 17th and ended with a male at Pentire April 26th. A mere nine birds were reported, all singles except two at Trevose Head April 25th. Breeding season records were received for Bodmin Moor and Dunmere Woods. No detailed survey work was carried out on the Moor but JAdEM located at least six pairs within 1/2 mile radius of the Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory. 'Fair numbers' were noted at Bearah Tor by BTC, but at Colliford two fewer sites were occupied. There was a successful pair near Blisland and other pairs at Halvana and Bowithick. Single day sightings came from Trewortha Woods, Golitha Falls and Bolventor. (This compares with an estimated total of 250 pairs on the Moor in 1985 and 61 pairs located by Chown and Akers in their 1984 survey). At Dunmere a male was heard singing June 29th, but others are believed to have been present. None was reported from Lanhydrock this year. Autumn passage returned to normal this year, after unprecedented numbers in 1986 and good numbers in 1985. Sixteen birds were reported between August 30th and November 5th. Records were evenly spread throughout this period with only Porthgwarra (three) and Trevose Head (five) attracting more than singles.

WHINCHAT - Saxicola rubetra

Uncommon summer resident. Breeds exclusively on Bodmin Moor. Passage migrant. Spring passage commenced with a male at Rame Head April 17th and ended with one at Penlee Point May 16th. A total of thirteen were noted at ten sites. All were singles except two at Trevose Head April 25th and two at Marazion April 28th. In the Upper Fowey Valley first returning birds on territory were noted April 25th and at Colliford April 26th. There was an extreme paucity of breeding records. Apart from only three pairs in the Upper Fowey Valley (no juveniles seen and precious few adults in July and August), there were six pairs in the Colliford area, only three of which were definitely successful, a single male at Bearah Tor, a pair at Hill Tor which did not breed, two pairs between Kilmar Tor and Hawks Tor, two pairs at De Lank, a pair at Temple Tor and at least three birds at Bastreet in late summer. Admittedly this is a difficult species to census unless one is prepared to visit some of the most inaccessible parts of the Moor but these figures must surely represent a serious decrease since 1984 when Chown and Akers located a total of 180 pairs. Autumn passage commenced early with a single at Gwithian August 4th and continued until October 25th when two were at Perranporth. Rather like Redstart, passage was less pronounced than 1986 and 1985. A total of c.93 birds was noted at 35 localities. Of the total, 15 moved through August 28th to 31st, 14 September 19th to 22nd and 29 October 3rd to 5th. The remainder were evenly spread throughout the period. The maximum included a total of eight at Rame Head August 28th to October 24th, a total of 13 at Trevose Head August 31st to October 3rd, six at Lands End October 3rd, five at St Just October 4th and five at Penhale Camp October 5th.

STONECHAT - Saxicola torquata

Resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. After various requests for records were published, a good deal of informa­ tion was forthcoming and presents a fairly good overall picture of the species in Cornwall in 1987.

86 After the extremely cold weather of mid January it soon became apparent that Stonechat populations, already severely depleted by the cold winters of 1984/5 and 1985/6, had perhaps reached a new low. Whether birds had succumbed during the freeze or attempted the risky business of a mid winter flight to warmer climes is not known, but only eight reports were received for the whole of January and a mere four for February. Despite this, some 35 to 40 pairs were reported during the breeding season. Most were located along the north coast and thankfully most bred successfully. Inland, two pairs bred at Blackpool China Clay Pit, but this compares with up to eight pairs in recent years SJC. On Bodmin Moor successful breeding occurred only at Colliford, Hawks Tor and De Lank. This miserable total compares with 211 pairs in 1984. (The initial 'crash' came in 1985 when only five pairs were located). JAdEM suggests that because all of the gorse bushes had been burnt by frost, the habitat was no longer suitable for nest sites and neither did it hold sufficient insect life. Penhallurick (1976) suggested that the Stonechat's ability to re-establish itself quickly probably derives from the fact that it has a high fledging success rate and is often triple-brooded. Certainly there were numerous reports of young birds from all parts of the county in autumn. Some of these may have been migrants but many would surely have been locally bred. There were many records of five to ten birds and a maximum of 11 at Porthgwarra October 25th. Unfortunately there was another sharp decrease after mid November but we can only hope that the exceptionally mild winter of 1987/8 will provide the springboard for this species to return in strength.

WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe

Summer resident. Breeds, mainly on Bodmin Moor. Passage migrant. Spring passage, which commenced with one at Gwithian March 11th, was very light until April 4th when 91 birds were noted. No new arrivals occurred April 6th to 12th but there was a fair influx April 16th to 19th. The maximum included the following: Trevose Head: 40 April 4th, 22 April 17th and 11 April 25th. Lizard: 19 April 4th. Near Kynance: 11 April 4th, 14 April 18th. Kenidjack: 16 April 16th. Porthgwarra: 18 April 17th. St Agnes: 15 April 17th. Lands End: 15 April 17th. Gwithian: a total of 178 male bird days and 74 female bird days March 12th to May 29th. Breeding on Bodmin Moor was very poorly reported but elsewhere there were single pairs at Bude Breakwater, Blackpool China Clay Pit, Near Kynance, Halzephron and Loe Bar. Autumn passage commenced with one at St Agnes July 30th. Passage throughout August and the first eighteen days of September was very light. There was a sub­ stantial movement September 19th to 22nd with small numbers almost daily until the last one at Cleave Camp, Bude October 29th. Peak days were September 19th and 22nd with 109 and 114 birds respectively. Maximum numbers included: Near Kynance: 23 August 27th. 52 September 19th. Davidstow Airfield: 60+ September 22nd. Penhale Camp: 20-1- October 5th.

Gwithian: a total of 78 bird days in August, 98 in September and eight in October.

GREENLAND WHEATEAR - Oenanthe oenanthe leucorrhoa Scarce passage migrant. Porthgwarra: singles May 11th and September 14th DSF.

87 Godrevy: one October 3rd PAR. Lizard: one October 20th ARP.

BLACK-EARED WHEATEAR - Oenanthe hispanica

Very rare vagrant. This is the fourth county mainland record - previous records were in 1985 and 1971 (two). Hill Tor, Upper Fowey Valley: a first summer male of the western race O.h. hispanica June 12th/13th BAM.JAdEM. et al. Accepted by B.B.R.C.

RING OUZEL - Turdus torquatus

Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1970. Birds turn up in suitable breeding habitat almost annually, but breeding has not been suspected since 1976 and not proved since 1970. 1987 was an exceptional year for the species. There was the second mid winter county mainland record, the best spring passage since 1977 and the best autumn passage since at least 1976. Kingsand: one January 15th L.W. Turpitt. per SCM Widegates: one January 22nd Mr & Mrs Ogle. SCM.MPF. (No doubt the same bird involved in both sightings. The previous winter record was of a male at Kynance in December 1968 and at Caerthillian 1st January 1969). In spring there were reports of 14 birds. There were singles at Gwithian April 1st and Kenidjack April 16th/17th. On 17th there were also two at Gew Graze, The Lizard, three at Trevose Head and three at Porthgwarra. Finally there was four at Cheese wring May 5th. In autumn there was a total of c.70 birds at 18 sites between September 19th and November 7th. Most reports were of singles or twos but there were large numbers at: Kit Hill: three September 19th. Trevail: five September 20th. eight October 25th. six October 26th. Kynance: one September 26th, six October 23rd, one October 31st to November 4th. Porthgwarra: one September 28th, one October 23rd, three October 24th, five October 28th. Blackpool China Clay Pit: singles October 3rd and 16th, three November 7th Foage Valley: four October 4th. Rame Head/Penlee Point: six October 23rd.

BLACKBIRD - Turdus merula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. There were no reports of a decrease as a result of the freeze. In fact the species may have profited from the wet start to the summer. Ten at Trevose Head January 21st were undoubtedly cold weather migrants. In autumn, passage apparently commenced with 50 at Meres Valley, Mullion September 12th. Reports of small numbers were received from a scatter of migration watch points with maxima of 'hundreds' at Lizard Church Cove October 24th and 40 at Trevose Head November 2nd. Pied birds were reported from St Columb Major, Penweathers, Camborne and St Ives, whilst an all white juvenile was noted at Portscatho in July.

FIELDFARE - Turdus pilaris

Winter visitor. Passage migrant.

88 In the first winter period there were flocks of 300 at Kit Hill January 1st and 400 at St Eval January 3rd. Apart from thousands flying west at Holmbush January 14th and 15th and 'substantial numbers' at Mullion January 12th, 13th and 14th, very few birds appear to have been displaced by the freeze. In February 150 were at Mount Joy on 12th and 200 flew south there on 28th. Only a handful of birds remained after mid March but there was a very light passage, mainly associated with E/NE winds in mid April. Particularly unusual was one which summered in the Upper Fowey Valley/Smalla- combe/Bearah Tor area JAdEM.AH. The first in autumn were three at Sennen September 30th followed by singles at Relubbus October 1st and Kynance October 4th. No more were reported until October 20th, with subsequent passage very light to the end of November. 115 at Holmbush November 23rd and 150 at Upper Fowey Valley the same day were by far the largest flocks. In the second winter period, with the now customary mild weather persisting to the end of the year very few were reported. Castle an Dinas with 300 December 17th and Colliford with 300 December 19th were the only sites to attract more than 30.

SONG THRUSH - Turdus philomelos

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. This species appears to have been in decline locally for some years. Both BP and PWS considered it scarcer this year, although JAdEM found no evidence of any decrease related to the cold winter. The freeze in mid January caused a light movement through the county which included an influx at The Lizard. Birds were noted all around the coast of the peninsula with a maximum of 60 at Polurrian. There was also 110 at Trevose Head January 21st. Spring migrants are rarely detected but this year there were some interesting records April 17th/18th. On 17th VRT observed at least twenty birds arrive at Lands End after sudden thick fog rolled in off the sea. All were considered to be of the Scandinavian race 'T.p. philomelos' which is rarely detected in the south west and then only singly in autumn. These birds were very grey in appearance, rather like Mistle Thrushes. Underparts were much whiter with larger black spots more densely packed. The wing had a light grey panel and two distinct off-white wing bars. They were very unapproachable. A good illustration appears in Witherby's Handbook of British Birds. The following day several similar birds were found at Kenidjack and at least 100 were at St Ives. Autumn passage apparently commenced with an increase at Mullion September 12th and ended November 7th when six were noted at Trevose Head. The majority of birds passed through October 20th to November 1st with maxima of '100s' at Lizard Church Cove October 24th and 50 shy birds around the headland at Rame Head November 1st.

Very few were reported for the second winter period.

REDWING - Turdus iliacus

Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Like Fieldfare the species was very scarce in the first winter period with the largest flocks 100 at Kit Hill January 1st and 100 at London Apprentice January 9th. The species was adversely affected by the freeze but not perhaps to the extent of recent years. A heavy influx was noted at Mullion January 12th and this continued to 15th. At Tehidy, hundreds were seen 'flying over' January 13th and a 'huge flock' roosted there January 19th. On January 14th a steady stream of birds flew southwest at Camel Estuary between 1100 and 1500 hours and 5000 flew west at Holmbush. The following day 500 flew west over Holmbush. In February, 300 were noted at Landulph on 8th but very few were reported anywhere after this. Last were ten at Menabilly March 23rd.

89 Autumn passage commenced with three at Duckpool October 1st and ended with two at Bude November 14th. It was probably the poorest autumn movement on record. A grand total of less than 300 birds was reported. By far the largest numbers were 40 at Trevail October 20th and 50 there October 25th and 40 at Trevose Head November 2nd. 40 at Carlyon Bay December 6th was the only report for the second winter period!! MISTLE THRUSH - Turdus viscivorus Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Like Song Thrush, a species which appears to have been in steady decline over a number of years. In 1987 this opinion was corroborated in various comments received. JD described it as scarce at Trelissick. BP noted a decrease in the Marazion area and JAdEM found only one pair, where normally three, in the Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory area. This pair reared only one brood compared with the normal two. There were no reports of birds displaced by the January freeze and no reports of spring migrants. In late summer there were the usual large family gatherings including up to 20 regularly at Bodmin Radio Station, 18 at St Wenn July 5th and 15 at Tehidy August 2nd. At Biscovey numbers built up in late September to a peak of 35 on 18th to 27th. These were probably locally bred birds as were 20 at Caerhays September 20th and 12 at Colan September 30th. Autumn migrants were noted October 12th to November 3rd, but all reports were of single figure numbers. In the second winter period the maximum were 16 at Lanjeth December 16th and 20 at Loe Pool December 19th. SWAINSON'S THRUSH - Catharus ustulatus Exceptionally rare vagrant. Formerly known as Olive-backed Thrush, this North American thrush has been recorded once previously in mainland Cornwall - a bird, also at Cot Valley on 21st October 1979. Cot Valley: one October 11th to 18th RBd.CCB.PC.EGG.GG.AHJH.AH.BAEM. GHT.BW.DRF.DSF. et al

90 CETTI'S WARBLER - Cettia cetti

Scarce resident, established only at Marazion Marsh. Breeds. Uncommon pas­ sage migrant. The Marazion population appears to have withstood the series of very cold winters very well but elsewhere there has been a marked decrease. In fact the total number of birds away from Marazion is the lowest since 1976. The continuing existence at Bude and Tamar reedbeds is however encour­ aging. Marazion Marsh: noted throughout the year. During the breeding season there was a maximum of eight males singing April 23rd, including one at a new site near Crowlas. An unknown number of pairs bred, but breeding success was probably not high. Single juveniles were ringed August 30th, September 29th and October 1st BP et al. Bude: male singing April 18th and November 8th into 1988. IK. Maenporth: male singing May 27th to 29th NL. Haye, near Cargreen: male at a new site May 31st AHJH. A male was also heard singing on the Devon side of the river opposite Cotehele April 4th to May 31st. SMC.EJC.RS.LW. et al.

SAVI'S WARBLER - Locustella luscinoides

Vagrant. South Cornwall: a male singing April 2nd and to May 19th ARP.SB. An encouraging return to the same site as 1986. Records in each of the last four years.

GRASSHOPPER WARBLER - Locustella naevia

Summer resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant, mainly spring. The first was an early bird at Nare Head April 7th with no more until one at Trevalga April 16th. Spring passage is never easy to discern because birds take up territory at many of the migration watch points early. Nevertheless c.25 birds, all singles except two at Porthgwarra April 21st, three at Kenidjack April 23rd to 25th, two at Lower Tamar Lake and four at Upper Fowey Valley, were noted. Breeding season reports, mainly of 'reeling' males were received from most parts of the county. There were few records of successful breeding and maxi­ mum numbers included four on usual territories in Upper Fowey Valley and four at Bosigran. The only definite autumn migrant was one at Penlee Point August 23rd.

AQUATIC WARBLER - Acrocephalus paludicola

Rare passage migrant, autumn. The status of this species is currently the subject of much research in The Netherlands and as part of this study I have analysed all records for the county mainland. Briefly, this analysis reveals that c.117 birds have been recorded from 17 sites. The first was a bird at Eddystone in 1907. There were no more until 1951 and then 1959. Birds were noted in 1964, 1965 and 1966 but there was another gap until 1970, since when birds have been reported annually. Of the 117 birds reported, 85 (72%) have occurred at Marazion Marsh. More remarkable is the fact that 109 (92%) have occurred on or near the south coast. Extreme dates are 6th August 1987 and 21st October 1974. Rarely are birds aged with any certainty and in only one case (1964) has an adult been identified.

91 Despite vastly increased observer coverage and awareness of the species, plus increased use of mist nets at suitable sites in autumn there has been a decline in the number of sightings since the peak years of the mid and late 1970's. In 1987 the following were noted; Marazion Marsh: juvenile ringed August 6th, one September 17th/18th, juvenile ringed September 29th BP.RBd.GG.EGG.JLFP. *1984 record College Reservoir: one August 24th BC. .1983record 8 Stithians Reservoir: two September 6th BC

SEDGE WARBLER - Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. As reported in 1986 this species has declined quite dramatically nationally and this is reflected in very low numbers breeding in Cornwall. This situation was exacerbated by particularly poor early summer weather which resulted in low breeding success. The first spring arrivals were two at Gunwalloe April 15th followed by two at Skewjack and a single at Marazion April 17th. Many arrived from April 21st with the most pronounced arrival from May 8th. Some of the better breeding season counts included 10-1- at Porth Mear May 16th, 13 singing males at Upper Fowey Valley May 20th, five singing males at Bude June 20th and at least eight singing males at Stithians Reservoir in June. Autumn passage was virtually non-existent. Apart from Marazion Marsh where passage was regular but light and at Par where the maximum was 20 Septem­ ber 16th, a mere 15 birds at 10 sites were reported. The last was one at Marazion October 13th.

REED WARBLER - Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Summer resident. Passage migrant. Breeds. The Reed Warbler was formerly a very rare summer visitor to Cornwall and apparently bred only sporadically prior to 1967. Since then it has colonised most, if not all of the county's Phragmites reedbeds. The first in spring were three at Walmsley Sanctuary followed by one at Long Rock reedbed April 15th. No migrants were reported away from breeding colonies. Breeding season reports were received for: Marazion Marsh/Long Rock reedbed where the species was considered more successful than Sedge Warbler, mainly by virtue of second broods. At Gunwalloe numbers were down on 1986. Along the Tamar river reed beds four pairs were noted at Pentillie and others at Haye, Halton Quay and Calstock. Elsewhere along the south coast there were two males singing at St John and at least six pairs at Par. On the north coast three males were noted at Bude, seven pairs at Harlyn Bay, two at Porthcothan and seven males at Bolingey, Perranporth. There was also two at Menadarva in late April, two at Maenporth in late May and one at Gwithian - any of which may have bred. Autumn passage was very poor. Birds were noted August 17th to November 1st. 20 were at Par August 17th and eight there September 16th. Elsewhere only 14 birds were reported - all singles except three at Kenidjack August 28th and two singles at Cot. The Cot bird of November 1st is the second lat­ est ever for the county mainland - beaten only by one at Porthgwarra on 3rd November 1982.

ICTERINE WARBLER - Hippolais icterina

Occasional passage migrant (autumn).

92 Porthgwarra: one September 13th to 15th SJC.CCB. one first winter bird October 22nd/23rd DSF. Cot Valley: one September 22nd to 27th PAM.DR et al. Other reports received lacking sufficient description. 1983 record Rosemullion Head: one September 21st BC.

MELODIOUS WARBLER - Hippolais polyglotta

Occasional passage migrant (mainly autumn). Marazion: one August 15th KGH Kenidjack: one August 28th ARB Hippolais sp. Porthgwarra: one October 3rd DSF Other reports received lacking description

Scarce resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. In the main breeding area there were no sightings until October. It seems likely that all birds were wiped out by the freeze in mid January. However a pair were noted at a site about ten miles further west and these may have bred. In October there were four sightings of single birds, possibly from the second site. Elsewhere two were seen at a site on The Lizard April 24th, but not sub­ sequently. SB. Mr & Mrs Callaway. EJC.SGC.RWG. Hopefully the mild winter of 1987/9 will benefit the species.

SUBALPINE WARBLER - Sylvia cantillans

Very rare vagrant. Kenidjack: male April 18th to 20th. IAP.VRT.ARB et al. Lizard: male April 27th ARP. There are three previous, all singles - in 1975, 1981 and 1985 Accepted by BBRC.

93 LESSER WHITETHROAT - Sylvia curruca

Scarce summer resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Formerly a very rare summer visitor and passage migrant with only two instances of proven breeding prior to 1977. In that year a pair nested successfully at Saltash. Since then the number of occurrences has increased quite dramatically with con­ firmed breeding annual since 1981. In 1987 two pairs bred near Bude but young seen from only one of the nests GPS. Nanquidno: one April 20th JH and one October 22nd CCB. Rame Head: two May 4th and 10th. SJCx.RWG and one August 31st SGC.MDR. Poltesco, Loe Pool: one May 5th ARP. Gannel Estuary: one May 6th SMC. Camel Estuary: three May 6th EGe : one May 9th SMC. Gwithian: one May 11th to 19th PAR. Lelant: one May 15th into June DSF.SMC. Porth Mear: one May 17th RS. Trefusis Point: one June 3rd BC Long Rock Pool: one June 4th and one trapped (showing brood patch) July 22nd BP. Bolingey, Perranporth: one June 4th SMC. Polbathic: one June 14th SCM. Menadarva: one July 3rd to 7th CNT. Porthgwarra: one September 13th to 22nd JH. Trevose Head: one September 27th PAM. Lizard: one October 3rd and 4th ARP. Cot Valley: one October 25th CCB.DSF. Virtually all spring and summer birds were singing males. Other reports omitted owing to lack of description.

WHITETHROAT - Sylvia communis

Summer resident. Breeds. Passage migrant.

94 Formerly much more common, this species has never fully recovered from the 'crash' of the late 1960's and numbers now fluctuate annually around a comparatively low base. First spring arrivals were two at Kenidjack April 19th followed by a widespread arrival until April 28th. There was then a lull before the next wave of migrants arrived from May 4th. Most reports were again of low numbers but there were six at The Lizard April 23rd, 13 at Rame April 25th, eight at Caerthillian April 26th with 12 at Porthgwarra and eight at Skewjack the same day. Very few breeding season reports were received but there were at least 40 between Zennor and Porthmeor June 9th, six males between Padstow and Wadebridge and 4/5 pairs at St Cleer Common. BP considered it the best year for the species for more than a decade and RL in three years observations along the coast from Gribben Head to St Anthony Head considers it very common, if not prolific. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at St Mawgan August 5th and ended with one at The Lizard October 11th. A total of c.60 birds was reported from 16 localities. Most moved through August 8th to 10th and August 28th to 30th with maxima of 15 in the St Levan to Porthgwarra area August 10th, six at The Lizard August 28th and six at Sandymouth September 2nd. These figures do not take into account 'a fall' at The Lizard August 29th when EGe found the bushes and bracken full of Whitethroats.

GARDEN WARBLER - Sylvia borin

Summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. Formerly much rarer as a breeding species in the west of the county, there are now regular reports of small numbers at several sites particularly around Camborne, Helston and on the Lands End peninsula. Spring passage commenced with one at Predannack Wollas April 23rd followed by two at Porkellis and Trevose Head and a single at Helston April 25th. Only ten migrants were reported. Birds were noted at breeding sites from May 4th. Little information was received for the breeding season but there was a 'small colony' at Trethosa and several males at St Erth and Polbrock. Autumn passage commenced with two at Rame Head August 23rd. C.36 birds were reported from 14 sites. Very few were noted before mid-September with 1/3 of the total moving through September 27th to 30th. Apart from ones and twos there were three at Porthgwarra September 16th, four at Trevail September 20th and three at Trevose Head September 30th. Late in October there were singles at Trevose on 24th and Lizard Church Cove on 31st.

BLACKCAP - Sylvia atricapilla

Summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few 'winter'. In January only five birds were reported - singles at Falmouth, Wadebridge and Truro and two at Mullion. None of these was noted after January 15th but five new birds were reported in February. The first migrant was probably one at Cotehele April 4th (a day when many other summer migrants, notably Chiffchaff and Willow Warblers arrived). Away from breeding areas a mere 29 birds were reported, most arriving after April 17th. At Trevose Head at least six moved through, at Skewjack there was five April 17th and at Gribben Head five May 9th. Very little information was received for the breeding season. Autumn passage apparently commenced with singles at Landulph August 6th and Porthmeor August 18th. No more were reported until August 28th when five were at Gorran. It proved, once again, to be a poor passage with c.100 birds noted at 23 sites. 14 passed through August 28th to 31st, 16 September 26th to 30th and 29 October 20th to 25th. There was a trickle of birds until November 7th when migration ceased abruptly.

95 Autumn maxima included a total of 20-1- birds at Duckpool between August 30th and October 29th and at least 16 at Trevail between September 20th and November 1st. In the second winter period there were six reports in late November and twelve birds in December. All were singles except three at Holmbush and two at Swanpool.

PALLAS'S WARBLER - Phylloscopus proregulus

Very rare vagrant. Previous records were singles in 1975 and 1979 and four in 1982. These two thus became the seventh and eighth county mainland records. Porthgwarra: one October 31st and November 1st CCB.DSF. The Lizard: one October 31st BC. Accepted by BBRC.

YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER - Phylloscopus inornatus

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Recorded in every year since 1978. 1987 was the fourth good year in succession. Morwenstow: one September 27th AHJH. Lizard Church Cove: one October 2nd, two October 3rd and one to October 10th. ARP.BC. Porthgwarra: singles October 4th AHJH., October 15th ABR, and October 22nd to 24th. DJB.DSF. Nanquidno: singles October 4th/5th AHJH.MRAB.CCB. and October 19th to 21st GPC.SJCx.BRF.MAG.DH. Cot: one October 7th to 10th. DJB.SMC.ABR.RS et al. Zennor: one October 11th AHJH. Trevail: one October 17th GG.EGG.

DUSKY WARBLER - Phylloscopus fuscatus

1985 record. Cot Valley: one October 13th A.J. Bundy. The first record for the county mainland. Accepted by BBRC.

WOOD WARBLER - Phylloscopus sibilatrix

Uncommon summer visitor. Breeds? Scarce passage migrant. Most breeding season records come from the broadleaved woodlands around Bod­ min and in the valleys of the Rivers Fowey, Camel, Lynher and Tamar. Breeding has not been proved in the county since 1976. Spring passage was more pronounced than usual this year, but there was a dearth of breeding season records and only three in autumn. Kenidjack: In April there were two on 17th, four on 19th, two on 25th and one on 26th.ARB. Trevose Head: singles April 25th and 29th PAM. Cot: one May 1st DJC.RJT. Dunmere: three May 2nd SB, one June 29th SMC. Lizard: one May 2nd JSG. Golitha Falls: male singing May 15th/16th. JAdEM. Loe Pool: male singing May 16th to June 6th JSG, one August 8th DE. Treworgie Woods, St Gennys: male singing May 24th TJD. Harewood, Calstock: male singing June 7th AHJH. Luckett: male singing June 21st AHJH. St Levan: one September 13th SJC. Rame Head: one October 29th SCM

96 CHIFFCHAFF - Phylloscopus collybita

Common summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. A few 'winter'. During January there were reports of c.37 birds from 17 sites. 30 of these 'disappeared' after the mid month freeze. Only five were reported for February and three in early March. Most reports were of ones and twos but there were three at Pendeen January 3rd, nine at Helston January 5th and five at Rospeath Sewage Works January 8th. The ten reported at Swanpool in December 1986 had reduced to one January 6th. The first spring arrival was one at Kynance March 14th. Very few arrived during March and numbers continued to be generally low throughout April. Most arrived April 4th and April 17th. The maxima included a total of c.40 through Trevose Head April 4th to 25th, eight at Menadarva April 4th and ten at Skewjack April 17th. Breeding season reports were sparse but included seven at Halvana May 6th and 10 to 12 pairs at Smallacombe. Commencement of autumn passage is always difficult to discern but six at Lizard August 21st were probably migrants. Passage was very light and lasted until about November 14th. Maxima included a total of c.50 birds through The Lizard August 21st to November 8th, c.40 at Duckpool between August 30th and October 29th, 15 at Cot August 31st, 25 at Penlee Point September 17th, ten at Porth Mear September 28th and 13 at Porthgwarra October 21st. Apart from the 25 at Penlee on 17th, a mere 20 birds were reported for the whole of September up to 25th! In December there were reports from ten localities involving only 18 birds. All were singles or twos except five at Helston December 12th and three at Bude December 18th.

WILLOW WARBLER - Phylloscopus trochilus

Abundant summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. There have been various claims of birds wintering in the county. None is considered fully authenticated. First was one at Swanpool April 1st followed by one at Crowan April 3rd. Small parties arrived in many areas of the county April 4th with another arrival April lOth/llth. However the majority arrived from April 15th. The maximum included 30 at Skewjack April 15th and 50 there on 17th, 20 at Nanquidno April 17th and 30 at Trevose Head April 25th. Breeding records were few and although JAdEM thought numbers average on Bodmin Moor, RL considered it less prolific than in 1986. Autumn passage commenced with one at Pentire July 23rd and ended with three at Cot on the late date October 24th. Passage was very thin with fewer than 200 birds reported. Most moved through August 22nd to 30th and September 2nd. Maxima included 17 at Perranporth August 5th, 15 at Porthgwarra August 10th, 40 at Rame Head August 27th and 15 at Sandymouth September 2nd.

GOLDCREST - Regulus regulus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The succession of cold weathers has evidently had some effect on the species because apart from autumn migrants very few records were received. Few breeding reports were received although AHJH noted singing birds through­ out Halvana forest. In contrast to most other species, autumn passage was excellent. Birds were noted regularly from all parts of the county from August 30th to November 14th. Heaviest passage occurred September 26th to 28th, October 10th to 17th and 20th to 25th. Maximum numbers:

97 Trevail: 12 September 13th, 30 October 20th. Rame Head: 20 September 26th, 50 October 23rd. Porth Mear: 30 September 28th. Zennor: 40 September 28th. Cot: 15 October 7th and 10th, 55 October 20th. Porth Joke: 30 October 10th. Kenidjack: 12 October 11th, 20 October 20th. Nanquidno: 20 October 13th, 25 October 15th, 30 October 23rd. Lizard: 24 October 23rd.

FIRECREST - Regulus ignicapillus

Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Overwintering birds from 1986 were noted at Penlee Point, Loe Pool and Camel Estuary (two). Other first winter period singles were at Lynher Estu­ ary and Mousehole. In spring there were two at Kennack Sands March 29th and singles at Porthgwan a April 21st and Trevose Head April 25th. Autumn passage commenced with one at Trevail September 19th and ended with two at Falmouth November 17th. c.60 birds were reported from 20 localities. Most reports were of ones and twos with no noticeable influxes. Regular reports were received from: Trevose Head: six birds noted between September 22nd and November 2nd. Cot: nine birds noted between September 26th and November 9th. Lizard: c.10 birds noted between October 2nd and November 8th. Porthgwarra: seven birds noted between October 4th and November 8th. In the second winter period there were singles at Loe Pool, Sheviock, Lynher Estuary, Lelant and Camel Estuary but three at Pendarves Nature Reserve.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER - Muscicapa striata

Summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. The first in spring was one at Rosudgeon on the early date April 14th but there were no more until May 2nd. Only a handful of birds arrived before mid May and the total for the whole month was a meagre 20. Few breeding season reports were received, perhaps indicating a further decline in numbers. Of interest were four pairs in the Upper Fowey Valley and three pairs at Gonvena, Wadebridge. Autumn passage commenced with one at Rame Head August 15th and ended with one at Kenidjack October 26th. c.116 birds were reported from 26 localities. Parallel with several other species there was a marked passage August 28th to 31st. Regular reports and maximum numbers: Rame Head: c.20 birds noted between August 15th and October 3rd. Lizard Church Cove: nine August 28th, then one or two regular to October 16th. Cot: c.14 birds noted between August 30th and October 12th. Trevose Head: c.14 birds noted between August 31st and October 14th. Other late October records included singles at Porthgwarra October 22nd/23rd and Nanquidno October 23rd.

RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula parva

Scarce passage migrant. Another good year with four birds on typical dates. 1980 was the last blank year. Drift Reservoir: one September 27th. CCB.MAG. Cot: one October 10th to 12th. CCB et al. Porthgwarra: one October 18th. GPC.DH. Nanquidno: one October 25th. IC.RMRJ.

98 1983 record Lizard: one October 20th. BC.

This now becomes the first Lizard record. It brings the 1983 total to six.

PIED FLYCATCHER - Ficedula hypoleuca

Scarce summer visitor. Breeds. Passage migrant. One of the success stories of the 1980's. First bred at Lanhydrock in 1966 but there were only four more proved breeding records up to 1980. Since 1980 there has been a gradual increase (apart from a slight hiccup in 1982). Late information for 1986 reveals that a record eleven pairs bred rearing a total of 65 young. In 1987 there was a small decrease to ten pairs which successfully reared 60 young. FMC. Successful breeding has also occurred in recent years in the Dunmere/Boscarne/ Washaway area, north of Bodmin. No details have been received for 1987 but late information for 1986 reveals that one pair reared four young. FMC. There can be little doubt that this increase is directly attributable to the provision of more and more nestboxes coupled with an overspill of Devon-bred birds seeking new breeding haunts. This expansion in range should continue, particularly where nest boxes are provided. A good spring passage commenced with a female at Rame Head April 14th and ended with a male at Loe Pool May 8th. A total of 19 birds were report­ ed from 10 sites. eight, including five at Kenidjack, arrived April 17th and five, including two at Porthgwarra, were noted April 25th/26th. Two were also noted at Colliford May 6th. Autumn passage commenced early with one at Coldrose Farm, Truro and ended with one at Cot October 25th. c.52 birds were reported from 18 sites making it the poorest autumn passage since 1982. Records were received from many localities along the north coast between Lands End and Sandymouth but none were reported from the south coast east of Lizard Church Cove. Most reports were of one to three birds but larger numbers included: Cot: c.eight birds noted between August 30th and October 25th. Trevose Head: 10 August 31st and two singles in September. Kenidjack: six September 1st, two September 22nd and three September 26th. BEARDED TIT - Panurus biarmicus

An irruptive species which occurs as an occasional passage migrant and winter visitor in Cornwall. The largest numbers to reach Cornwall appeared in 1965/6 and 1972/3 but several also arrived in late October 1985. Bred in Devon in 1981.

Halton Quay, : a male May 3rd AHJH

LONG-TAILED TIT - Aegithalos caudatus Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Apparently survived the arctic conditions of the first winter period without serious loss. The largest first winter flock was 30 at Luxulyan January 22nd. Although breeding was poorly documented there were the usual large post-breeding flocks which included 22 at Trefusis June 13th, 25 at Goss Moor June 14th, 20 at Redmoor June 20th, 20 at Pontsmill July 5th and 25 at St Columb August 31st. A substantial autumn passage was noted September 29th to October 26th with maxima of 20 at Caerhays October 10th, 20 at Par October 10th, 30 at Camel Estuary October 17th and 50 at Penlee Point October 25th. 10/20 were noted at Cot, Trevail, Porthgwarra and Trevose Head.

99 The largest second winter flocks were 25 4- Marazion November 21st and up to 20 regular at Trelissick.

MARSH TIT - Parus palustris

Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant. Fairly common, occurring in most suitable habitat east of Truro. Less common far­ ther west, notably on the Lands End peninsula which produces very few records. No change in status was reported in 1987. At Porthgwarra, where there are only three previous records, there was one October 29th which may have been a migrant. AFJC.

WILLOW TIT - Parus montanns

Scarce resident. Breeds. Occurs in damp scrubby woodland and moorland to the east and north of Indian Queens. Fully authenticated records of birds farther west are exceptionally rare. The species has undoubtedly suffered as a result of the succession of cold winters. Nevertheless birds were reported from many of the traditional sites during 1987. In North Cornwall TJD considers it more common than Marsh Tit in most wooded valleys. The species bred at Pilsamoor, Egloskerry and was present at Upper Tamar Reservoir.BTC.KS. On Bodmin Moor there were pairs in the Upper Fowey Valley at Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory, Higher Langdon and Lower Langdon. There was also a pair at Trezibbett February 15th and a pair at Draynes April 19th with singles on two other dates. At St Cleer Common there were singles May 17th and September 10th and a single at Siblyback September 29th. JAdEM. AHJH.AB.BEB. In mid Cornwall the species was noted at Breney Common and Redmoor, there were four at Treskilling February 15th, two at Retallack July 27th and three at Goss Moor September 14th.RL.GRW.MW.SMC.JD.BTSC. Other reports received lacking description. 1986 record Goonhilly Downs: one September 8th. JAdEM. The first record from The Lizard peninsula - seen by observer thoroughly familiar with the species both in the field and in the hand.

COAL TIT - Parus ater

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Although reported widely throughout the year the following comments are of interest: Marazion: bred in usual numbers but broods thought small.BP. Perranwell Station: not so obvious as last year.MPV. North Cornwall: not common but reasonably widespread in suitable habitat.TJI). In autumn, migrants were noted September 27th to October 25th. c.30 birds were reported, all were singles except seven at Duckpool September 30th, five at Porth Mear October 1st and five at Gwithian October 2nd.

BLUE TIT - Parus caeruleus

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. There were no reports of any decrease but because the species has become so abundant it may take time for any decline to show. In the first winter period 20 at Duckpool January 3rd was the largest flock. In autumn, migrants were noted at Porthgwarra, St Ives Island and Trevose Head. At Porthgwarra there was a maximum of 30 October 22nd and at Trevose 24 November 2nd. At St Ives Island GG and EGG watched four birds fly north November 1st and found three others dead in the car park.

100 GREAT TIT - Parus major

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Most reports suggest a thriving population but BP thought broods were small this year and JAdEM considered it 'not very numerous and decidedly scarce in the second half of the year'. Possible migrants included 18 at Porthgwarra October 3rd and eight flying over there October 22nd.

NUTHATCH - Sitta europae

Resident. Breeds. Records received from only 25 localities, mostly east of Truro. In the far west there were singles at Gulval November 5th and Penlee Park, Penzance November 30th. Despite the lack of reports there was no apparent change in status. In North Cornwall TJD considered it present in all woods (and this is probably true of most woods in the county).

TREECREEPER - Certhia familiaris

Resident. Breeds. Rare passage migrant? Like the preceding species few records were received but there was no reason to suspect any change in status. The species appears to be fairly common and well distributed as far west as Loe Pool and Hayle but there is very little recent information for The Lizard or Lands End peninsulas. At St Just in Roseland LSP and EMP noted singles on March 22nd and 29th and May 26th after none in 1986. Penhallurick (1976) suggested that one in willow scrub at Goss Moor was rather unusual, but subsequent observations in this area and a number of similar sites has proved this to be a regular occurrence particularly when birds are moving about with roving tit flocks.SMC.

GOLDEN ORIOLE - Oriolus oriolus

Scarce passage migrant (mainly spring) 1987 was another good year - the third in the last five years, for the species. 1984 was the record year with at least 20 birds recorded. Once again males were more prevalent than than females. Gwithian: male April 22nd/23rd. EE.PAR. Kenidjack: male April 24th. ARB. Trevose Head: female April 25th. PAM. Higher Bochym, Lizard: two (one male) April 27th. R. Lawman. Cotohele: male May 4th. RWG. Copperhouse: one July 3rd. DSF. The last blank year was 1971.

RED-BACKED SHRIKE - Lanius collurio

Scarce passage migrant (mainly autumn). Has bred sporadically in Cornwall but not since 1968. There were records of birds holding territory on Bodmin Moor in the 1970's, and in 1981 a male was noted for three days in June in the Upper Fowey Valley. There has been an upsurge in records in the last three years. After none in 1984 there were five in 1985, six in 1986 and three this year.

101 Caerthillian: male May 27th.RB.ARP. Landulph: one September 15th DFK. Reskajeage: one September 24th to 26th SB.CCB.DL.et al.

GREAT GREY SHRIKE - Lanius excubitor

Scarce passage migrant. Occasional winter visitor. Old Kea, Truro: one March 1st BB.DBS. Pentire: one October 24th LAS.FS. Crowdy Reservoir: one December 19th AJB. Other reports received were not considered to be fully authenticated. There has now been records in every year since 1975 but none has wintered since 1979/80. These three bring the county mainland total to 57.

WOODCHAT SHRIKE - Lanius senator

Vagrant. Prior to 1971 there were only six records for the county mainland but the three this year bring the total to 32. The best year to date was 1986 with five. Lizard: adult male April 18th to 26th ARP. Mr & Mrs DJL et al. Hayle: adult male April 30th/May 1st CCB.LPW. Porthgwarra: one May 4th/5th CCB et al. Accepted by BBRC.

JAY - Garrulus glandarius

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Influxes occurred in 1972 and 1979. A well documented invasion occurred in 1983 (see Birds in Cornwall 1983). No change in status reported. Possible migrants included seven at Drift September 17th and singles at Duckpool October 4th, Trezelah, Penzance October 25th and Crean and Lamorna Octo­ ber 29th.

MAGPIE - Pica pica

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Conflicting reports were received regarding the species's status. At Perranwell Station MPV found the species breeding but not as prolifically as previously and JD reported it as absent at Trelissick. At Marazion BP considered that it was still increasing and JAdEM estimated a breeding population of 25/30 pairs in the Upper Fowey Valley. In mid Cornwall SMC felt that there had been a general levelling off in the population or perhaps a very slight decrease. Several large flocks were reported including 14 at Millbrook January 6th, 14 at Ludgvan January 11th, 15 at Rame Head April 25th and 18 at Menadarva November 4th. Roosts are rarely reported but this year 20 were noted flying southeast to roost at Lostwithiel March 9th and 40 were roosting at Illogan Highway Sep­ tember 25th MF.

CHOUGH - Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

Vagrant. Last bred in Cornwall in 1947. After this date very few were noted in Cornwall with the last at Stem Cove, Mawgan Porth on 17th June 1973. Since then there

102 have been only sporadic records. In 1975, two birds at Porthgwarra and a single bird at Hayle were all escapes. The origin of a bird at Roche the same year is not known. At least two birds were involved in three sightings at Par in 1976 but these were also considered escapes at the time. In 1984 there was a second-hand report of one at Polperro and in 1986 there were rumours of up to three at Tintagel and one at Newquay. All of these records are believed to be authentic despite the lack of documentation. Two birds which arrived at Whitsand Bay in late August 1986 remained into 1987. Unfortunately only one bird was noted after January 4th. The other bird had contracted gape-worm, a parasite that uses earthworms as an intermediate host. Both birds had been feeding on earthworms in their favoured field and although the dead bird had appeared very weak earlier, it had apparently regained some of its former vitality before its eventual demise. We are fairly certain that it was taken by a Peregrine which had previously made a couple of attempts at the choughs in December. It was seen stooping at jackdaws in the same field the day after. The fate of the second bird is not known, although it survived the winter well and had taken to feeding along the foot of the cliffs rather than in the fields. It was last noted January 27th. SCM. et al. Cape Cornwall: one March 29th RIA.BRF. Pentire Point: one September 26th JA One was also reported to EGe, feeding in fields with other corvids at Cury in May.

JACKDAW - Corvus monedula

Abundant resident. Breeds. Passage migrant The largest flocks reported included 260 at Camel Estuary July 7th, 200 at Pentire September 6th and 600 at Porthgwarra October 25th. The last flock was almost certainly comprised mainly of migrants. In the second winter period a flock of c. 10000 corvids were noted flying towards a roost at Ladock Woods, having first congregated at the churchyard. JD Partial albinos were reported from Marazion and Mullion whilst a deformed bird at Camborne had the distal half of its bill pointing upwards at an angle of 30°. 1986 record The reference to 200/300 roosting should read 2000/3000 roosting at Ladock.

ROOK - Corvus frugilegus

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Basically it seems that whilst numbers of nests at individual rookeries fluctuate from year to year, the overall trend is of a fairly stable population with birds being mobile and moving between local rookeries as conditions dictate. The following rookeries were reported during the year (with selected changes in the number of nests since 1976). For further information see the B.T.O. National Census of Rookeries 1975-76 - The Cornish Results by R.D. Penhallurick in 'Birds in Cornwall 1976' pages 87-102. Wimalford, Upper Fowey Valley: 3 nests (8 in 1984) Carkeet, Upper Fowey Valley: 7 nests (5 in 1984, 4 in 1975). Lower Langdon, Upper Fowey Valley: 8 nests (11 in 1984, 4 in 1975). Churchtown, Gerrans: 20 nests (23 in 1986). Treloan: 28 nests (43 in 1986, 48 in 1975). Upper Rosevine: 28 nests (14 in 1986, 11 in 1975). Lower Rosevine: 25 nests (44 in 1986). Trelissick: 96 nests (25 in 1986, 106 in 1984, 75 in 1982 and 86 in 1975). Perranwell Station: 50/60 nests (60/70 in 1986 and 22 in 1975). Tremenheere Orchard: 12 nests (16 in 1986). Meres Valley, Mullion: 7 nests (30 in 1986, 24 in 1983,13 in 1980 and 21 in 1975). Old Vicarage, Mullion: one nest (two in 1986 and one in 1982).

103 Trenance, Mullion: 14 nests (24 in 1986, 30 in 1984, 22 in 1980 and 7 in 1975). Penhale, Mullion: 20 nests (10 in 1986, 5 in 1985 and 2 in 1975). Gonvena, Wadebridge: 99 nests (166 in 1986, 92 in 1978 and 100 in 1975). Efford Down Hotel: 5/10 nests (20 in 1986, 5 in 1984). The only large flock reported was 400 at Camel Estuary July 7th.

CARRION CROW - Corvus corone

Common resident. Breeds. Birds of the northern race C.c.cornix coloquially known as Hooded Crow occa­ sionally occur. Very few records received but no change in status reported. 30 feeding on Trelissick Beach January 13th was the largest concentration.

RAVEN - Corvus corax

Resident. Breeds. Breeding was widely reported, particularly on the north coast and inland on Bodmin Moor where five pairs were located. There were fewer reports from the south coast but at The Lizard ARP observed birds at five sites, corresponding to the Lizard Breeding Birds Atlas 1982/3. The species no longer breeds at St. Michaels Mount. BP. At Rame Head, one bird was seen carrying a corn-on-the-cob head in its bill November 1st. RS. There was some evidence of birds wandering about in the county from late September to late October. Of interest were four flying north over St. Columb and five at St. Michaels Mount September 27th, six at Pentire September 29th, one flying south at Nanquidno October 15th and six at Porthgwarra October 28th.

STARLING - Sturnus vulgaris

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Abundant winter visitor. Populations in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe have undoubtedly declined in recent years and this may account for a noticeable tumble in the number of birds using Cornish roost sites in recent winters. Traditional roosts at Crowdy, Par, Stithians and Marazion all appear to hold fewer birds. On Bodmin Moor JAdEM considered that numbers were normal during the first winter period with the usual dramatic early morning and late afternoon flights to and from Crowdy. Most had left by the end of March and although a few remained to mid April none were noted during the breeding season apart from at a few fringe sites such as St. Cleer and Minions. Juveniles started to appear from mid June, but from August 7th to October 20th there was a complete and inexplicable absence of birds. This absence was compounded by very few or no birds at Crowdy and Davidstow. There were no reports of this roost in the second winter period but c. 100000 flying over Camel Estuary each evening November 24th to 30th were probably en route to Crowdy. At Par, SMC encountered only very small numbers in autumn and the second winter period. The maximum here was 5000 December 1st - only 10% of the total roosting here in 1985. At Marazion, no estimates were received for the first winter period, but the roost was reported as having moved from the reedbed to the conifers at Cheshire Home after the freeze. Autumn numbers were lower than normal. BP At Bissoe, very few large flocks were noted flying over in the second winter period but JD wonders if the roost has moved. The only other roost was 300 at Bude Marshes September 19th. Unusual was an all-white bird save for some buff on the wings, at Marazion January 2nd. JSB.

104 HOUSE SPARROW - Passer domesticus

Common resident. Breeds. At Perranwell Station the species decreased a few years ago but is now making a very successful comeback MPV. At Marazion BP reports that the local gang may be declining with a maximum of only 12 in autumn - cats may be the main problem! Largest flocks reported included 100-1- at Rame Head August 29th, 60 near Par September 19th, 60 at Portscatho September 21st and 70 at Camel Estu­ ary November 2nd. A creamy buff bird with pink bill at Crugmeer in May was probably the Trevose Head/Harlyn Bay bird of 1985/6. RS.

TREE SPARROW - Passer montanus

Scarce passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. For a species which occasionally breeds in Devon, it is surprisingly rare in Cornwall. It has never been proved to breed in the county and is unlikely to do so owing to a contraction in range in the U.K. Lizard: one April 29th ARP

RED - EYED VIREO - Vireo olivaceus

Very rare vagrant. These are the sixth and seventh county mainland records - all since 1982. Nanquidno: juvenile October 9th RQS.AD.KC.PW. Trevail: juvenile trapped and ringed October 17th remained to 25th. GG.EGG. Accepted by B.B.R.C.

CHAFFINCH - Fringilla coelebs

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Very few of the good-sized flocks reported at the end of 1986 appear to have overwintered. The 500 at Rame Head had apparently moved to Penlee Point and reduced to 300 by January 1st, whilst the 400 at Marazion had increased to 500, mainly females by January 5th. Elsewhere there were 250 at Trevose Head January 22nd, 200 at Kilkhamption February 11th and 300 at Respryn March 8th. Several flocks of 50/100 were noted. In spring there were 25 at Lands End and 50 at Skewjack April 17th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with two at Trevose Head September 19th followed by ten at Cleave Camp, Bude September 20th. Apart from the period October 20th to 29th and November 18th, passage was light. Maximum numbers: Cleave Camp: 500 October 20th, 300 October 23rd, and 150 October 29th - all south. Bude: 250 October 20th and 1765 November 18th - all south. Porthgwarra: 300 October 22nd, 1800 October 23rd and 270 October 25th - all south. Trevose Head: 250 regular October 24th to November 7th. In the second winter period there were 350 at Ludgvan December 11th and 500 at Par December 13th.

105 BRAMBLING - Fringilla montifringilla

Winter visitor. Passage migrant. No's fluctuate from year to year. In 1987 first winter and spring records were widespread but autumn passage was poor. The large flock at Upper Tamar Reservoir in December 1986 was not reported again and only two of the eight noted at Rame Head remained into 1987. During January there were reports from 15 sites, mainly of ones and twos but larger numbers included ten at Mt. Edgcumbe, ten increasing to 30 at St.Eval, 20 at Harrowbarrow and one increasing to 50 and then 100 January 16th at Crowan. Apart from a few which remained at St.Eval and two at Porthpean, the remainder were apparently driven out by the cold weather. In February there were reports from six localities - all small numbers. There was evidence of spring passage March 2nd to 14th and April 3rd to 17th. In the earlier movement c.84 birds were reported including 4 at Bohetherick March 7th, 5 at Respryn March 8th and 68 at St.Neot March 14th. 35 at Harrowbarrow probably included the birds seen here during January. In April there were two at Percuil, singles at Barripper, Menadarva and Scadghill and three flew over Porthgwarra April 17th. Autumn passage commenced with three at Rame Head October 19th followed by one at Cot October 20th. Passage was very light, but not as poor as 1982 or 1984. c.52 birds were noted at twelve sites. Most reports were of singles, but at Porthgwarra a total of 29 flew over between October 22nd and November 2nd. Elsewhere there were three at Lizard October 23rd and Trevose Head November 7th.

Passage ceased November 26th and there were no records for December.

GREENFINCH - Carduelis chloris Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Although poorly reported this is a species which has increased quite dramatically in recent years, probably as a direct result of the vast number of artificial feeding stations provided in the county. (In 1979 it was reported as generally declining in the county). In the first winter period the maximum included 30 at Crowan January 9th and up to 100 at a time in a St.Columb Major garden. At the latter site a total of 211 were trapped and ringed during January/February. SMC. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 14 at Trevose Head August 15th and continued to November 18th when 30 flew south at Bude. Most moved through simultaneous with other finch passage, October 17th to November 1st. There were some good counts and it was probably the best autumn passage since the record year of 1977. Maximum numbers: Cleave Camp, Bude: a total of 145 flew south between October 17th and 29th. Porthgwarra: 42 October 22nd, 202 October 23rd, 185 October 25th and 1110 November 1st - all south. Trevose Head: 80 October 24th, 110 November 2nd and 45 November 7th. Lizard: 50 October 28th. Second winter maxima included 30 at Baldhu, 50 at Wadebridge and 60 at Wheal Rodney, Marazion.

GOLDFINCH - Carduelis carduelis

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. The succession of cold winters has probably had a deletorious effect on the breeding status of this species. It is now described as scarce in many areas and the paucity of breeding records tends to confirm this opinion. In the first winter period very few were noted with nine at Marazion January 27th the largest charm.

106 There was evidence of a light spring passage March 26th to May 5th. The maximum included 20 at Pentewan March 26th to April 4th and six at Trevose Head April 25th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with 20 at Boswednack August 21st and ended with 29 at Gerrans October 30th. Flocks of up to 40 were noted at 12 sites with larger numbers as follows: 60 at Gunwalloe September 7th, 80 at Trevose Head October 4th and 48 flying south at Cleave Camp, Bude October 23rd.

SISKIN - Carduelis spinus

Scarce resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. First confirmed breeding occurred in 1984, although it had been suspected on a number of occasions previously. Of the 1987 breeding season JAdEM reports as follows: 'In 1985 and 1986 birds returned to breeding areas in January and were fairly regular on nuts at the Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory during February/March. This year regular visits did not develop until May. Breeding numbers were certainly down on previous years. Prob­ ably only three pairs were present with very little song flighting. The first juveniles were noted June 20th. An interesting feature of the last four years has been the few visits made to the nuts at the observatory during the breeding season. The nuts seem only to be popular on dull overcast days and I would suggest that hot sun on spruce cones causes the scales to expand thus making the seeds more available'. The only record from Halvana plantation concerned three May 10th. In the first winter period twelve had overwintered at Lostwithiel but none of the other December 1986 birds was reported again. There were reports from a mere ten sites during January/February, mostly very small parties but also up to seven daily on peanuts at Hayle, eight at Par and 30+ at Tehidy. A very light spring passage occurred March 6th to April 21st. c.23 birds were noted including four at St Neot, seven at Menadarva March 23rd and four at Tywardreath April 21st. Autumn passage commenced with three at Marazion and one at Crowan September 25th and ended with four at Bude November 18th. c.250 birds were reported from 28 localities, c. 168 of these moved through October 20th to 26th. Most reports were of small numbers with larger flocks as follows: Rame Head: 15 October 10th. Cotehele: 15 October 11th. Porthgwarra: noted October 22nd to November 1st. 74 birds reported including 39 October 25th. There were no records for December.

LINNET - Acanthis cannabina

Common resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. In the first winter period most birds were apparently driven out of the county by the freeze. On January 1st there was a flock of 100 at Trenarren and on 6th there were 170 at Rame Head. After the cold spell the only report received was of 20 at Trevose Head January 21st. Spring passage was very light, 20 were noted at Porthpean from March 15th, 19 arrived off the sea at Lizard April 4th, 90 were at Rame Head April 5th and 30 were at Lands End April 19th. All other reports concerned less than six birds. No breeding information was received. The first post-breeding flock of 40 had gathered at Colliford July 12th. Autumn passage commenced with ten at Trevose Head August 15th, but few others were reported before the third week of September. 250 at Colliford September 7th, 200 at Cleave Camp, Bude September 20th to October 4th, 300 at Gurnards Head September 22nd, 300 at Gwithian September 23rd, 270 at Lizard September 26th, 200 at Par October 3rd and 390 at Rame Head October 4th were the maximum.

107 Second winter flocks were small with 60 at Pentewan December 29th and 30 at Hayle December 31st the only flocks of note.

TWITE - Acanthis flavirostris

Rare passage migrant and winter visitor. There are 11 previous records involving a total of 24 birds. The last was in 1982. It is of interest that a small flock overwintered from 1987 into 1988 in North Devon. Rame Head: male November 5th was killed by a Sparrowhawk. AHJH.

REDPOLL - Acanthis flammea

Scarce resident. Breeds. Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeding was first noted in Cornwall in 1968. Subsequently, numbers have fluctuated annually. Most breeding reports derive from the conifer plantations of Bodmin Moor with occasional records from similar habitat near Bude and at Hustyn Downs, Wadebridge. In 1987 up to four pairs bred along the southern edge of Smallacombe plantation and another pair was strongly suspected of nesting in the sallows of the nearby Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory bog. JAdEM. At Halvana, one or two birds were noted on four dates April 18th to July 30th but there was no proof of breeding. EJC.JAdEM.MDS. These figures for Bodmin Moor compare with 24 pairs located by Chown and Akers in 1984. However, this year there was no information from the plantations west of Bolventor. At Hustyn Downs, one was noted June 12th and a pair were believed visiting a nest site July 3rd. SMC. Elsewhere there were the following: Lower Tamar Lake: one July 11th DJB. Allet: one flew east September 26th ADS. Trevose Head: two flew south September 30th SMC. Camel Estuary: one October 15th SMC. Porthgwarra: singles October 22nd and 23rd. DSF.JH. Lizard: one October 23rd BC. Davidstow: one October 24th. IK. Duckpool: one October 24th. IK. Other reports received but lacking in adequate description.

CROSSBILL - Loxia curvirostra

An irruptive species which was proved breeding in the county for the first time in 1985. Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Breeding has not been proved in 1986 or 1987. In fact, after three very good years for the species, numbers were very much reduced this year - indicative perhaps of a gradual contraction in range again after an irruption. Smallacombe: one pair suspected of breeding, female May 24th and 31st. four June 14th. female September 15th. male September 16th. six September 21st and November 4th. JAdEM.RLL.LML. Bodmin Moor Nature Observatory: pair April 12th JAdEM. Halvana: two July 30th MS.

108 Park View, Truro: one December 22nd SW.

BULLFINCH - Pyrrhula pyrrhula

Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Winter visitor. Grossly under-reported as always, but no reason to suspect any change in status. Described as 'well-established' at St Just-in-Roseland by LSP and EMP and 'present all year' in the Upper Fowey Valley JAdEM. Apparent migrants were reported October 1st to 25th. They included seven at Kenidjack October 12th and two in off the sea there October 28th, a maximum of five at Porthgwarra October 23rd and an incredible 50-1- (all males) moving up the valley at Trevail October 25th GG.EGG.

NORTHERN PARULA - Parula americana

Very rare vagrant. Nanquidno: male October 13th to 23rd ABR. et al. The star bird of the autumn. The third record for the county mainland - previous occurrences were in 1967 and 1985. Accepted by BBRC.

LAPLAND BUNTING - Calcarius lapponicus

Scarce passage migrant (autumn). Rare winter visitor. A record breaking year with birds overwintering from 1986 at Reskajeage and Trevose Head, a very early bird in autumn, a record-sized flock at Reskajeage and a total of c.180 birds in autumn at 20 localities. First winter records: Reskajeage: up to five during January with three to February 4th, two to February 10th and one to February 23rd DSF.MS.CNT et al. Trevose Head: two January 21st SMC. Autumn and second winter period: Trevose Head: a juvenile September 9th (equals previous earliest date). Noted September 26th to November 7th with maximum of 10 October 25th. c.16 birds involved. SMC.PAM.MPF.DJB. et al. Porthgwarra: noted September 14th to October 28th with maximum of 11 October 23rd. c.18 birds involved DSF.EGG.JH. et al. Reskajeage: noted September 17th to December 6th. The build up in late October/November is worthy of detail. On October 28th two birds were noted but by 30th 26 were present. There was an increase to 40 November 1st, 45 November 6th and a staggering 65 November 9th. Thereafter the flock dispersed with only 25 the following day. There was an increase to 39 November 21st but none were noted after December 6th. DSF.CNT et al. Boswednack: one September 19th GG.EGG. Gurnards Head: one September 22nd. GG.EGG. Nr. Kynance: 4-1- September 26th, one September 27th, four October 4th, two October 28th and three November 6th. BC et al. West Pentire: one September 26th, 10 October 11th and 13 October 14th. PAM. Upper Tamar Reservoir: one September 27th AHJH. Porth Mear: four September 28th, eight October 1st and two October 26th SMC. Pentire Point: one September 29th SMC. Nanquidno: two September 30th and one October 21st CCB. Lands End: one October 1st ICW. St Just-in-Penwith: one flew north October 4th AHJH. Near Bude: singles October 4th and October 11th to November 2nd.IK.RMS. DJR.GPS.

109 Lizard Church Cove: singles October 26th and November 8th ARP. Lizard Point: two flew north October 28th ARP. Camel Estuary: one November 7th SMC. Bude: four flew south November 18th IK. Gwithian: one November 21st CCB.

Ashill, North Cliffs: two November 26th, one November 28th CNT.

SNOW BUNTING - Plectrophenax nivalis

Uncommon passage migrant. Rare winter visitor. The best first winter period since 1964, none in spring but an excellent autumn passage involving c.150 birds at 22 localities, many of which passed through approximately two weeks earlier than normal. Gwithian: nine from 1986 remained to at least February 28th, but only one March 7th. DSF.PAR.CNT. et al. Trevose Head: one January 1st, two January 2nd DMY. Reskajeage: one January 3rd and 7th DSF. East Pentire, Newquay: three February 2nd/3rd, two February 14th with one to February 18th SMC.BTSC. Autumn and second winter: Reskajeage: singles September 21st to 25th and November 21st. KJH.DJL.DSF. St Ives: noted September 22nd to October 11th with maximum of 5 September 29th. 6+ birds involved. NHWW.JGS. et al. Porthgwarra: noted September 22nd to October 23rd with maximum of six September 27th. c.ll birds. DR.CCB.ICW. et al. Lizard: singles September 23rd and October 23rd. DR.BC. Nr. Kynance: one September 26th EGe. Kynance: one September 27th DSF.ARP. St Anthony Head: one September 27th SJM. Madron: nine September 27th DR. Bude: one September 28th IK. Trevose Head: one September 30th. two October 11th. 12 October 22nd. four October 24th/25th. PAM.MPF.SMC. Blackpool China Clay Pit: 27 October 1st to 22nd feeding on newly hydroseeded clay tip. SJC. Rame Head: one flew west October 4th RS. Navax Point: one or two October 4th to 10th CNT. Mevagissey: singles October 7th and 18th RL. Pentire Point: one October 8th/9th ML.GB. Gwithian: nine October 11th to 26th. 13 October 31st. seven or eight to November 21st. 26 December 26th. c.20 remained into 1988. DSF.MS.DMY. et al. West Pentire: 20 October 11th. 16 October 14th PAM. Davistow Airfield: noted October 12th to 24th with maximum of eight October 23rd. c.8 birds. Gurnards Head: two October 13th, three October 16th GG.EGG. Padstow: one October 14th to 17th.PJD.EGe.JW et al. Upton Towans: three November 4th PTS. Ashill, North Cliffs: 10+ November 26th CNT. YELLOWHAMMER - Emberiza citrinella

Common resident. Breeds. Scarce passage migrant. Since about 1982 there has been a significant decline in the number of birds present in the county. Several observers have reported decreases during that time, but this year there were no reports of any change in status, so perhaps the population has levelled out. During the first half of the year the largest flocks were 40 at St Eval January 3rd, 20 at Crowan January 9th, 40 at Rame Head January 18th, 20 at Millbrook April 4th and 30 at Lantivet Bay.

110 JAdEM found it very local during the breeding season and ML reports c.17 pairs breeding at Bodmin Radio Station. 8+ males were noted singing at Menadarva dur­ ing June and July and there were eight between Porthleven and Praa Sands July 4th. Autumn passage apparently commenced with one at Trevose Head August 29th. Passage was more pronounced than normal with birds moving through until November 18th. Regular reports and maxima: Trevose Head: noted August 29th to November 7th. c.30 birds noted with maximum of 15 November 2nd. Sandymouth: 30 September 7th. 15 September 21st. Porth Mear: noted September 28th to October 17th with maximum of 15 last date. Rame Head: 40 October 23rd. 30 November 1st. Porthgwarra: five October 23rd. two October 25th and five November 1st. Smaller numbers were reported from a scatter of other sites. The only flock of note in the second winter period was 50 at Camel Estuary December 20th.

CIRL BUNTING - Emberiza cirlus

Rare resident. Breeds. Formerly much more common, there has been a protracted decline over the last twenty years. In 1967 up to 15 pairs were noted in the breeding season in South East Cornwall alone and despite very poor coverage in subsequent years, birds were recorded at fifteen sites in the county in 1975. This decline is part of a general contraction in range in the U.K. It is perhaps surprising that whilst the nucleus in South East Cornwall has virtually disappeared former peripheral pockets of birds continue to survive at Flushing and Perranporth. It can only be a matter of time before these disappear. Flushing: Up to four birds including three males noted during the breeding season. One pair bred and young were being fed in late July. Unfortunately scrub clearance may have destroyed the nest and the young are not thought to have fledged. No birds were seen after August 14th. NL.JD.MCT. et al. St John Lake: two (one male) February 7th DRC. Polhawn: male singing April 5th PHA.SJCx. Bass Point, The Lizard: male singing April 5th RQS. Bolingey, Perranporth: male December 31st DFS.

ORTOLAN BUNTING - Emberiza hortulana

Uncommon passage migrant (mainly autumn). There have now been records in each of the last six years. The May bird is only the second spring record for the county mainland. Sheffield, near Mousehole: one May 8th RGW. Trevose Head: female/immature August 31st PAM.

REED BUNTING - Emberiza schoeniclus

Resident. Breeds. Passage migrant. Winter visitor. Grossly under-reported. In the Upper Fowey Valley JAdEM noted birds throughout the year with an estimated population of 20 pairs. He also found it widespread on Bodmin Moor generally, where suitable habitat exists. At The Lizard ARP considered that numbers were down. Very few were reported at the beginning of the year suggesting that most had been forced out of the county by the freeze. In autumn, migrants were noted September 27th to November 7th. c.115 birds were reported with most, c.77, moving through October 22nd to 25th. Maximum included 25 at Porthgwarra October 23rd, ten at The Lizard October 24th, 40 at Kit Hill October 25th and 15 at Kynance November 1st.

Ill None were reported for the second winter period!

CORN BUNTING - Miliaria calandra

Resident. Breeds. Flocks outside of the breeding season. Cornwall is the stronghold for the species in the South West. Most are found along a narrow coastal strip in the north of the county between Rumps Point and Godrevy. After many years of reporting a relatively stable population, numbers were down in 1987 with a maximum of c.40 singing males reported between Trevose Head and Reskajeage. Of these ten were at Trevose Head and nine were near Newlyn East. On the Lands End peninsula there was a single report of two males in song April 17th. This compares with 22 singing males in the district in 1971. At The Lizard, where there has been a decline since at least 1982, none could be located this year despite diligent searching. The largest flocks reported during the year included: St Eval: 25 January 3rd. seven October 29th. Trevose Head: 25 February 11th and August 15th. 34 September 23rd. 40 November 2nd. Navax Point: 13 roosting March 15th. Reskajeage: Up to 20 September to November included two leucistic birds. Less usual were two at Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge May 1st and singles at Connor Downs April 20th and Black Rock April 25th. 1986 record Predannack, The Lizard: singing male May 30th and June 13th, pair June 18th. ARP.

EXOTICA

FLAMINGO sp.

Hayle Estuary: one April 5th DSF.AH.RJH.BW Crantock: one, presumed the same, April 6th AH. RJH.BW

BAR-HEADED GOOSE

Fowey Estuary: one January 9th/10th. LAS.FS.NJC. Camel Estuary: one March 31st. DLJ. Upper Tamar Reservoir: one April 12th KS.

AUSTRALIAN WOOD DUCK

Hayle Estuary: the bird present since 3rd February 1985 remained throughout the year DSF et al

Camel Estuary: one August 7th to 24th and October 24th JAdEM.ML.

AMERICAN WOOD DUCK

Trenance Lake, Newquay: drake November 27th into 1988 ML.

BAHAMA PINTAIL

Trenance Lake, Newquay: one November 10th into 1988. SMC.BTSC.

MACAW sp.

Rame Head: one flew out to sea in the direction of South America April 21st! SGC.

112 ZEBRA FINCH

Harrowbarrow: female or immature September 30th JEC.

B.B.R.C. Decisions

1986

Wilson's Petrel Two at St Ives August 26th Accepted. Cattle Egret One at Luxulyan November 22nd Accepted. Green-winged Teal Stithians bird last noted May 7th and the November 16th bird into 1987 Accepted. Ring-necked Duck Female from Drift last noted near Sennen April 15th Accepted. drake at Sennen December 14th Accepted. later at Drift Reservoir Woodchat Shrike Poldhu Not submitted to BBRC by observer. Rose-coloured Starling Truro Not submitted to BBRC by observer.

The following records which did not appear in 'Birds in Cornwall 1986' were all rejected:

Ring-necked Duck drake at Loe Pool December 22nd. Olive-backed Pipit at Saltash December 24th. Veery at Boscastle October 24th.

1985

Little Egret Fowey Estuary June 15th to September 3rd Accepted.

The following records which did not appear in 'Birds in Cornwall 1985' were all rejected:

Sardinian Warbler Phillack May 19th Rock Bunting Porth Mear October 7th. Little Bunting Porthgwarra October 5th.

1984 Little Bunting Porthgwarra October 14th Rejected.

113 Breeding Seabirds Survey 1987

by Roger Smaldon

Unknown to our Society, when the Breeding Seabird Survey was agreed lor 1985, the Seabird Colony Register was being arranged to do the same thing on a national basis. The results of our survey were made available to the Register, and in 1987 they organised coverage of the areas not surveyed in 1985. This paper reports the findings of that coverage. Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation covered most of the area under the direction of Trevor Edwards. Nine surveyors, mostly working in pairs, covered approximately 100 miles of coast, in eleven stretches, between 1st and 21st June 1987. Further stretches were surveyed by R.J. Perkins and M. Weake, and the important offshore islands of the Mouls, Newland, Gulland, and Carters Rocks were thoroughly searched by Mrs. P. Davies, Mrs. A. Hathway and Col. Harris's Group from M.O.D. Penhale. Through their sterling work an almost complete survey of breeding seabirds in the county has been achieved. Only the Brisons, important for several species remains unchecked. The Mouls and the area from Western Cove to Godrevy Point received attention in 1985 and 1987. Sincere thanks to all the above for filling in the gaps after 1985, and especially to David Johnson and Ken Partridge, co-ordinators of the Seabird Colony Register for S.W. England, for making the very thorough results freely available to us.

References

Phillips, N.R.: 'After the Torrey Canyon - the results of the pollution and the census of Cornish Breeding Seabirds 1967'.

Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Annual Report 1967 pps. 90 -129.

Smaldon, R.: '1985 Breeding Seabirds Survey'.

Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society Annual Report 'Birds in Cornwall 1985' pps. 125 - 145.

FULMAR

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Upton 198047 6 nests N. of Lower Longbeak 196036 3 nests Lower Longbeak 196033 2 nests Millook Haven 186005 5 nests Cleave Strand 155985 3 nests Pencannow Point 142974 (0-2) nests Pentargon Cove 107921 6 nests 106919 1 nest Mackerel Cove 851762 12 nests

114 Fox Cove 856733 15 nests 22 in 1967 Porth Mear 849715 2 nests High Cove 844710 27 nests Park Head 841709 14 nests Park Head to Newquay estimated 10 pairs in 1967 Diggory' Island 847701 19 nests Bedruthan Steps 849695 2 nests Pendarves Island 847694 11 nests Carnewas Island 847690 26 nests Trenance Rock 847679 4 nests Mawgan Porth 844672 13 nests Stem Point 842662 5 nests Watergate Beach 841650 8 nests Tinners Point 838644 13 nests Creepinhole Point 836643 2 nests Horse Rock 837642 14 nests Sweden Rock 835641 3 nests Fruitful Cove 835638 35 nests Zacry's Island 832638 15 nests Fern Cavern 832634 18 nests Flory Island 831632 17 nests Lusty Glaze 822625 16 nests Barrowfields 820623 24 nests Criggars 819622 12 nests Tolcarne 817620 4 nests Western Cove & Islands 646452 143 (1-20) nests 120 birds nesting 1985 Ralphs Cupboard 645451 17 nests S. of Samphire Island 639445 6 nests Deadmans Cove 612431 6 nests Hudder Cove 606430 28 nests Hells Mouth 603429 23 nests Fishing Cove area 596429 26 nests The Knavocks Cliff 595432 2 nests Kynance Cove area 587433 41 nests Carrack Gladden 535388 1 nest Hor Point 498413 6 nests Pen Enys West 485409 2 (2-4) nests • Wicca Pool 465400 1 nest Between The Averack & the Enys 376354 4 (0-1) nests Levant Zawn 366346 1 nest Kenidjack Head 354326 1 nest Mavon Cliff 347260 6 nests Gafnper 345255 12 (0-3) nests Cove at Lands End 343253 1 nest Lands End/Porthgwarra 12 nests in 1967 Cam Kez 343249 8 nests Cam Greeb 344247 3 nests Pordenack Point 346242 4 nests Pendower Coves 360230 3 nests • Porthloe 363218 4 nests Hella Point 372215 (0-1) nests South of Treen 392223 1 nest Porthcurno 389223 lnest Treryn Dinas 400223 1 nest • The Mousehole 468257 17+ nests South of Baulk Head 655219 10 (2-4) nests Green Rock 653214 2 (1-3) nests Tumuli 662202 10 nests Cliff below Poldhu Cove Hotel

115 6642196 1 (0-1) nests South of Marconi Monument 664193 9 (l-2) nests 7 pairs in 1985 Pigeon Ogo 674142 20 nests 30 birds present March 9th 1985, but only 5 pairs located May 12th. Crane Ledges 694125 4 nests Dennis Head 789256 5 (2-10) nests High Cliff 792293 (0-2) nests 1 pair 10th June 1985 St Anthony Head 848311 2 nests North of Pennarin Point 912378 2 nests South of Pennarin Point 915376 1 nest Kilberick Cove 925381 8-1- nests Combe Hawke 115508 (0-3) nests Mevagissey/Fowey 4 nests in 1967 Washing Rocks 126506 (0-2) nests Wellake 133505 2 (1-8) nests Blackbottle Rock 136504 1 (0-2) nests Lantic Bay 145509 7 nests Pencarrow Head 152503 6 (0-2) nests Penslake Cove 185504 (0-2) nests Colors Cove 190503 1 (0-1) nests Larrick 194502 5 nests Chapel Cliff 207507 8 (0-3) nests West of Downend Point 217508 3 (0-3) nests Talland Bay 225515 1 nest East of Talland Bay 230513 (0-2) nests Tregonhawke 408512 5 nests 15 pairs here April 1985 but none later in year.

REMARKS: A total of 839 nesting pairs were located in 1987, plus an estimate of 10 - 85 in addition. Even allowing for some duplication of sites in both years, especially in the Portreath to Godrevy area, the total must be well in excess of the 1000 pairs estimated in 1985 from the evidence then available. With the great difficulty of actually counting breeding, as against prospecting pairs well in mind, it is still possible that the breeding population could be 1500/1700 pairs.

CORMORANT

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

The Mouls 938815 28 nests none noted on the landward side in 1985, 14 in 1967 Gulland Rock 878790 20 nests 15 in 1967 Hells Mouth 603429 9 nests 7 in 1985

REMARKS: The total of 57 counted in 1987, included Hells Mouth which was also counted in 1985. Allowing for this it would appear that 145+ pairs breed in the county, with Mullion Island by far the biggest colony. 139 were counted 1967 and 170 in 1969/70, so the county's breeding popuation has not altered greatly in the past 20 years.

Location and Map Ref Birds Present Comments

The Mouls 938815 16 nests 24 pairs in 1985 and 4 pairs

116 in 1967 Newland 913811 8 nests 6 in 1967 Gulland Rock 878790 50 nests 30 in 1967 Trethias Island 855739 4 nests Warren Cove 854735 4 nests Pepper Cove 854736 1 nest Minnows Island 854728 1 nest Porth Mear 849715 1 nest High Cove 844710 9 nests Carnewas Island 847690 12 nests Carters Rocks 754594 72 nests 37 in 1967, 65 pairs estimated in 1982/83 Western Cove and Islands 646452 5 nests 12 in 1985 Ralphs Cupboard 645451 4 nests Samphire Island 639447 1 nest 3 in 1985 Crane Island 633441 2 nests 1 in 1985 Deadmans Cove 612431 5 nests 3 in 1985 Hudder Cove 606430 10 nests 9 in 1985 Hells Mouth 603429 5 nests 3 in 1985 Knavocks Cliff 595432 16 nests 17 in area 1985 Hor Point 498412 1 nests Gamper 345255 3 nests Dr. Syntax Head 343254 1 nest Cove at Lands End 343253 3 nests Lands End 343251 1 nest Armed Knight 342247 10 nests 10 in 1967 Enys Dodman 344245 6 nests 1 in 1967 Cam Greeb 344247 3 nests Cam Les Boel 355233 10 nests Pendower Coves 360230 2 nests Crane Ledges 694125 4 nests Sharks Fin 813214 1 nest Dennis Head 789256 (0-3) nests Malmanare Point 915375 1 (1-3) nests Pencarrow Head 152503 3 (0-2) Chapel Cliff 207507 6 nests

REMARKS: The total of 281 for 1987 plus an estimated 1 - 8 in addition, included the Mouls and the area Portreath to Godrevy, both counted in 1985. Allowing for this, the county's total would appear to be in the region of 790 to 800 breeding pairs, although the Brisons which held 15 pairs in 1967 was not counted in 1985 or 1987. Carters Rocks with 72 nests is by far the most important colony in Cornwall. The 1967 survey located 681 pairs, so there has been a small increase since then.

LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Gulland Rock 878790 1 nest Western Cove 646452 1 nest Cam Les Boel 355233 (0-1) nest St Clements Isle 474262 1 (0-1) nest Falmouth 807330 (0-1) nest Island off Drake's Downs Cliff 854313 1 nest Chapel Cliff 207507 1 nest

117 REMARKS: The scattering of nests found in 1987, in no way alters the picture described in 1985. The species is, and always has been, a very scarce breeder in Cornwall. The 5 found in 1987 with an estimate of up to another 3, added to the 1985 total only brings the number of pairs to about 11 to 14. Numbers were 8 to 12 in 1967, so the species has made very little headway as a mainland breeder in the last 20 years.

HERRING GULL

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Efford Ditch 200058 8 (0-4) nests North of Upton 198054 to North of Lower Longbeak 196036 7 nests Pentargon Cove 107921 to Pencannow Point 142974 4 (0-1) nests Start Point 044857 14 nests South of Backways Cove 044858 Gull Rock off Trebarwith 5 nests Strand 038865 35 nests The Mouls 938815 82 nests 46 pairs on landward side in 1985, and 75 pairs in 1967 Newland 913811 28 nests 50 in 1967 Gulland Rock 878790 58 nests 200 in 1967 Round Hole 851761 1 nest Trethias Island 855739 1 nest Trevose Head to Cligga Head 480 in 1967 Warren Cove 854735 to Fox Cove 856733 10 nests Minnows Island 854728 9 nests Wills Rock 854724 to Porth Mear 849715 4 nests High Cove 844710 30 nests Park Head 841709 11 nests Bedruthans Steps 849695 8 nests Carnewas Island 847690 22 nests Mawgan Porth 844672 8 nests Berryls Point 842670 to Flory Island 831632 16 nests Dollar Rock 826632 7 nests Barowfields 820623 to Tolcarne 817620 5 nests Carters Rock 754594 (130-150) nests 200 nests in 1967 and thought to be increasing Western Cove and Islands 646452 15 nests Ralphs Cupboard 645451 2 nests Samphire Island 639447 1 nest Crane Island 633441 10 nests 7 in 1985 Deadmans Cove 612431 1 nest Hudder Cove 606430 2 nests Hells Mouth 603429 12 nests Fishing Cove 596429 2 nests Knavocks Cliff 595432 6 nests Kynance Cove area 587433 9 nests Carbis Bay 527388 5 (0-5) nests Roof nests Porthminster Point 525399 1 nest St Ives 518405 56 (0-30) nests Roof nests Pen Enys West 485409 to Hor Point

118 498413 6 (0-2) nests Wicca Pool 456400 9 (0-2) nests Levant Zawn 366346 to Kenijack Heac 1 354326 7 nests Mayon Cliff 347260 6 nests Gamper 345255 6 nests Cove at Lands End 343253 to Armed Knight 342247 8 (0-2) nests Enys Dodnan 344245 8 nests Pordenack Point 346242 to Nanjizal 355237 5 (0-1) nest Cam Les Boel 355233 15 (0-2) nests Zawn Kelly's 358227 to Folly Cove 362224 2 (0-1) nest Treryn Dinas 400223 2 nests Porthguaron 410229 6 nests St. Clements Isle 474262 5 (1-20) nests Mousehole 470265 20 (5-15) nests Roof nests Penlee Quarry 468279 5 (2-5) nests Roof nests The Mousehole 468257 1 nest Newlyn 463285 20 (5-15) nests Roof nests Penzance 475301 26 (7-25) nests Roof nests Longrock 492313 to 500315 4 (1-2) nests Roof nests Marazion 517306 13 (2-6) nests Roof nests Porthleven 640260 1 (5-10) nests South of Baulk Head 655219 7 (3-5) nests Green Rock 653214 to South of Marconi Mon. 664193 7 (5-11) nests Pigeon Ogo 674142 2 nests Crane Ledges 694125 14 nests Dean Point 804202 to Manacle Point 811213 7 nests Shark's Fin 813214 10 nests Porthoustock Quarry 809216 6 nests Dennis Head 789256 4 nests Penryn 778343 1 nest Falmouth 807330 65 (5-30) nests Roof nests Carricknath Point 846318 to Rosen Cliff 922373 8 nests Gribben Head 1 nest Polruan 125507 present Washing Rocks 126506 18 (0-3) nests Polruan Cliffs 129505 to Blackbottle Rock 136504 4 (1-3) nests Lantic Bay 145509 11 (0-1) nests Pencarrow Head 152503 to Lansallos Cliff 169511 5 (1-5) nests Penslake Cove 185504 10 (1-4) nests Colors Cove 190503 1 (0-1) nests Larrick 194502 8 (0-2) nests Chapel Cliff 207507 37 (5-14) nests Polperro 211509 9+ nests East of Polperro 214508 20 (10-20) nests West of Downend Point 217508 6 (0-24) nests West of Talland Bay 223509 8 (0-3) nests Looe 256536 9 (0-7) nests Tregonhawke 408512 1 (0-1) nests Rame Head 418481 4 nests

119 REMARKS: Whilst remarking on this species in the 1985 Report, a comment was made that although 1819 pairs were located this must be a gross understatement of numbers actually breeding in the county. This was probably not the case. One of the first facts to come to light in the national survey was the complete col­ lapse of the herring gull breeding population. A further 878 nests were counted in 1987 with an estimate of between 176 and 406 more. Allowing for some duplication this gives a total for the county of about 2600 plus the estimate given above. 6043 nests were estimated in 1967, so the decline is dramatic. Nearly all nesting colonies have shown a very marked reduction since 1967. Reasons for this are not readily available , and it will be interesting to see how the national picture is interpreted in due course.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

The Mouls 938815 9 nests 10+ pairs in 1985 Newland 913811 1 nest Gulland Rock 878790 4 nests 6 in 1967 Minnows Island 854728 3 nests Carnewas Island 847690 2 nests Berryl's Point 842670 1 nest Carter's Rocks 754594 8 nests 10 in 1967 Lands End 343251 2 nests Cam Kez 343249 1 nest Enys Dodman 344245 18 nests 31 pairs in 1967 Pordenack Point 346242 1 nest Cam Les Boel 355233 1 nest St. Clements Isle 474262 2 (1-2) nests Newlyn 463285 (0-1) nest Cliff below Poldhu Cove Hotel 662196 1 nest Porthkerris Point 807230 1 nest Falmouth 807330 2 nests Roof nests Wellake 133505 1 nest Penslake Cove 185504 (0-1) nest Larrick 194502 1 nest West of Downend Point 217508 1 (0-1) nests Looe 256536 1 nest

REMARKS 61 nests plus an estimate of between 1 and 5 in addition were counted in 1987. Allowing for some duplication this would give a total of about 275 pairs nesting plus the above estimate. 261 were located in 1967, so at best there has only been a slight increase in breeding numbers. Mullion Island, still by far the largest colony on mainland Cornwall, has however shown a 27% reduction in numbers since 1967

KITTIWAKE

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

Gulland Rock 878790 13 nests New colony Ralphs Cupboard 645451 301 (1-10) nests 122 in 1985 Gamper 345255 58 (0-5) nests max. 34 pairs 1976/84 Cove at Lands End 343253 9 nests Lands End 343251 66 (0-5) nests

120 REMARKS: This species goes from strength to strength. A huge increase noted at Ralphs Cup­ board colony in the space of two years, and a small new colony at Gulland Rock. Although not covered by the 1987 survey the birds noted prospecting Marble Cliffs, Trevone in 1985 were breeding in 1986. Breeding numbers now must be 2800-1- as against 1673 in 1967.

GUILLEMOT

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

The Mouls 938815 58 nests estimated 10 pairs in 1985, 20 in 1967 Gulland 878790 78 nests 30 in 1967 Carters Rocks 754594 33 nests 33 in 1967 Samphire Island 639447 20 individuals (1-20) 20 in 1985 Hudder Cove 606430 16 individuals 15 in 1985 Hells Mouth 603429 32 individuals 42/54 in 1985 Knavocks Cliff 595432 7 individuals 5 in 1985

REMARKS: The national survey called for apparently occupied nests or nesting sites, whereas our survey in 1985 asked for a count of individuals for this species at nesting localities. Allowing for this, plus some duplication at certain sites in the two years, it looks like an estimated 1300/1400 birds may be present on Cornish breeding ledges for the areas covered. One important breeding site not covered in either 1985 or 87 was the Brisons. Only 15 birds were here in 1967 but this was almost certainly due to the effects of the 'Torrey Canyon' oil. It had previously held a great many more birds, and may well do so now. 768 were counted in 1967, so the figures above look good and show something of a recent comeback for this species.

RAZORBILL

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

The Mouls 938815 29 nests 40+ pairs in 1985 28 birds in 1967 Newland 913811 5 nests 2 in 1967 Gulland 878790 26 nests 75 in 1967 Carters Rocks 754594 49 nests 24 in 1967 Armed Knight 342247 2 individuals 6 in 1967

REMARKS: The same initial remarks apply to this species as guillemot. The two surveys called for different evidence of breeding, etc., but it would appear that about 700/750 birds are present in the breeding season, therefore about the same as the 739 estimated in 1967. An unknown factor here as with the previous species is the lack of coverage of the Brisons. This was the county's largest colony in 1967 with c87 present, so a healthy colony here now could boost the count total to 800/850 individuals.

121 PUFFIN

Location and Map Ref. Birds Present Comments

The Mouls 938815 3 nests 10/15 pairs thought to be present in 1985

This total merely underlines the sad state of this species in Cornwall.

The Red-necked Grebe in Cornwall

by Roger Lane

A brief history of the Red-necked Grebe is given by Penhallurick in 'Birds of the Cornish Coast'(1969). The author summarised the status of the species at that time as 'the rarest in the county, but probably annual'. The present author considers that in the intervening years the Black-necked Grebe has become less common, and is now the greater rarity. Penhallurick's remarks (under Great Northern Diver) regarding the potential of the bays east of Carrick Roads, particularly Veryan Bay, for grebes and divers led to a four winter investigation into the status of these two groups in this area. The Red-necked Grebe became of particular interest and these results are largely due to Penhallurick's perception. The current study covers the winters 1984/5 to 1987/8 inclusive and as a result gave extremes of winter temperatures from one of the coldest on record in 1985/6 to one of the mildest on record 1987/8. Although the study was restricted to the south coast only between the Fowey Estuary and the Fal Estuary a detailed study of the CBWPS Annual Reports back to 1950 was also made. This, together with rare visits west of the Fal indicate that Falmouth Bay and the area west to Helford Estuary forms an important extension to the study area. The published records show that a very significant percentage of the county's annual total of Red-necked Grebe occur between the Fowey and the Helford. Weekly, sometimes daily visits were made to the bays east of Falmouth over the four winters and after the first two winters it was quite apparent that the species had been under-recorded in the past. There are a number of possible reasons for this: i.e. the relative isolation of these bays, the distance off-shore habitually frequented by the species, the solitary and the elusive nature of the species and last, but not least, the real problem of identification at distances up to one mile. Even with inde­ pendent transport and improved optical equipment, such a study requires unlimited time, patience and 'perfect' weather. Incidentally, 'perfect' weather for these south coast bays is definitely not a bright sunny morning with warm southerly winds, but rather, an overcast afternoon giving a uniform light, and very light northerly biased winds giving flat calm conditions. Even then there were many disappointing days due to the relative low numbers of grebes, especially Red-necked, amongst the omnipresent divers. The results of the survey were rewarding but it should be noted that they are those of a solitary observer and they do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Record­ er, nor the B.T.O. Atlas of Wintering Birds (1986). However, the observations are factual and the author has no doubt about the conclusions, having spent some 500 hours contentedly observing diving birds in the area. Unfortunately there can be no guarantee of stability of populations nor regularity of wintering sites, two facts which have been demonstrated to vary with the severity of the winter weather.

122 To give the reader some idea of the relative abundance of associated species wintering in the study area, in order of magnitude we are dealing with the following; up to five Red-throated, c.90 Black-throated and c.50 Great Northern divers, c.30 Little, five to ten Great Crested, ten plus Red-necked, c.40 Slavonian and five plus Black-necked Grebe. It should be stressed that these figures are only 'an experienced estimate' for the 'average' winter, based on scores of counts over the four years and can only be an underestimate due to off-shore activity of visible but unidentified birds. There is a slow build-up to these figures just before New Year, though an autumnal increase in Red-throated divers always occurs. In spring there is usually an increase in numbers of all species normally commencing in early March. The winter build-up seems to be by way of 'bay-hopping'from east to west until a suitable wintering haunt is reached. This certainly appears to be the case with Red-necked Grebe - the sightings of which are somewhat less frequent and therefore have been charted to a limited degree. In a mild winter, more 'open' bays in the east may suffice, as with Veryan and Gerrans bays in 1987/88, whereas in the colder winters such as 1985/86 the Red­ necked Grebe occurs nearer to Falmouth where it can more easily withdraw into the shelter of Carrick Roads, as eight were seen to do in February 1986. It is also considered that the species will be attracted to the Helford Estuary area in 'average' winters because of the shelter provided from prevailing southwesterly winds. This pattern can easily be disrupted, or enhanced by cold weather movements from the east, such as that in February 1979, although in such cases distribution appears to be more random. Thus, Red-necked Grebes seen in the Plymouth, Looe, St Austell and Mevagissey areas up to the end of December may well end up wintering in the area between Dodman Point and Helford Estuary as seemed to be the case in 1987/8. There is however some indication that earlier birds(i.e. Sept. to Nov.) may move even further west or possibly to the Brittany coast. This is not to say that Red-necked grebes do not winter further east in the county, for instance it is probable at Mevagissey, proven in St Austell Bay, possible off Looe and must occur toward the Tamar complex. The off-shore habitat combined with the difficulties of identification at distances up to a mile, makes quantification a real problem. This is heightened by the fact that it is a solitary species and more than one bird is rarely on the surface at one time. Identification at a distance depends on mannerisms and silhouette more than text book references and needs to be instantaneous (but always with later confirmation) due to short time spent on the surface when fishing. It is actually an exercise in elimination of all the other grebes, 200 divers, shags, cormorants, auks, and sea-duck. Having ascertained that the bird is a grebe, the problem is rarely one of confusion with the long-necked Great Crested Grebe (as inferred in the various Field Guides), but with the Slavonian Grebe which is present in much larger numbers in all of the bays, particularly in March when they are moulting into breeding plumage. Fortunately the contrast between the Red-necked Grebe and the Slavonian Grebe is akin to that between Great Northern Diver and Black-throated Diver in behaviour but not in size. The Great Northern Diver and Red-necked Grebe are normally solitary, ponderous and sedate whereas the Black throated Diver and Slavonian Grebe are gregarious, alert and active. There is little problem regarding size when both grebe species are in close proximity, when it will be seen that the Red-necked has a very distinctive silhouette. It is thickset, relatively short-necked and has a long dagger-like bill which is visible at long distance and is often held down at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees to the horizontal when fishing. The best localities for potential sightings of the Red-necked Grebe, within the study area, from east to west are; off Carlyon Bay and Porthpean in St Austell Bay, off Portmellon, off Caerhays and Portholland in Veryan Bay, off Pendower

123 and Portscatho in Gerrans Bay and to the north and north west of St Anthony Head in Carrick Roads. To the west of the study area at Swanpool and Maenporth and at Helford Estuary south to Gillan. The 1984/5 winter was spent getting to grips with the species and although there were dozens of day-sightings they involved only four or five birds. Veryan and Gerrans bays were investigated but mainly for divers, because at this time the necessary 'critique' for Red-necked Grebe had not been devised. The 1985/6 winter included the sub-zero February and by mid-month most birds had entered the estuaries for protection from the biting easterly winds (visibility in the open bays was in any case, poor). This gave rise to scores of day sightings of ten to twelve different birds. Eight of these spent the second two weeks 'together', in their solitary fashion, sheltering in Carrick Roads. Their dispersal during the thaw in the first week of March was traced, at least insofar as five appeared in Gerrans Bay and three in Veryan Bay in displaying groups until mid-March. The 1986/7 winter produced a wide variety of sightings from most districts within the study area. At least two birds overwintered in Veryan Bay, probably two others in Gerrans Bay and possibly one in St Austell Bay, plus individuals at other localities. No attempt was made to monitor Falmouth/Helford birds. The 1987/8 winter proved to be the most surprising since due to the very mild weather it was assumed that fewer grebes (and divers) would be present. However, there were in fact higher numbers of virtually all divers and grebes.Most birds were located from January on when viewing conditions were excellent, c.50 day-sightings were logged involving ten to twelve birds, not counting any birds which may have been present at Falmouth or Helford. The author's knowledge of viewing points, identification at distance and habits of the species had increased considerably by now. The peak day was March 8th when ten different individuals were seen on the same afternoon. The author's observations indicate that once Red-necked grebes have found satisfactory wintering areas they move very little, except in highly adverse weather conditions (e.g.February 1986). It is thought that there is a fairly rapid exodus during the latter part of March when many of these birds are in partial or full breeding plumage. This movement is seldom seen since most Red-necked Grebes fly at night. To summarise the present status of the species I consider the wintering population to be c.20. Of these, eight to ten are in the study area plus four to five west to Helford and up to eight around the remainder of the Cornish coast. Other fairly regular sites include the Tamar Estuary complex, off Looe, Loe Pool/Porthleven, Mounts Bay, St Ives Bay and Camel Estuary. There are also odd records off Newquay and Bude. The Loe Pool to Mounts Bay area may be under­ rated owing to the lack of suitable vantage points and when one considers the lack of suitable viewing points in less accessible stretches of our extensive coastline the population may be much higher. In recent years, increased observer awareness, greater mobility and improved optical capacity has meant that more September sightings have been made and April sightings are not uncommon. I have also made one May and one June sighting, indicating perhaps a late return from the continent. The Red-necked Grebe's status is therefore considered to be far more healthy than hitherto anticipated.

Footnote

This study was necessarily independent since only one person within the Society responded to a request for information in the CBWPS Newsletter. My thanks to

124 Ray Gould for his records which suggest that more regular observation of the Tamar to Looe area may yield interesting results. Only free exchange of scientific information and documented recording can build up a true picture of the county's ornithology. My own records of divers (many thousands), grebes(one thousand plus) and sea-duck (one thousand plus) are available to anyone wishing to research at generic or specific level. As an ex-professional conservationist (N.C.C. and C.T.N.C.) both the need for discretion in isolated cases and totality of recording is appreciated. Only the latter can lead to the identification of important wintering areas in the county and thus safeguarding the areas through their elevation to the status of Sites of Special Scientific Interest or better, notification by the N.C.C. The author's own submission of records has, or should lead to the establishment of two or three (non-ornithological) S.S.S.I.'s, which one day may mean more than it does today! Your ornithological records may help safeguard parts of our invaluable estuarine habitats against over-development. To gain statutory recognition it is necessary to accumulate both numbers and varieties of species and combine these with scientific disciplines to reach a threshold for protection. Any comments regarding this article would be greatly appreciated.

Roger Lane, 7 Wheildon Road, Holmbush, St Austell.

CHUKARS: THE FIRST CORNISH RECORD AND A KEY TO THEIR IDENTIFICATION

On 5th April 1987 I followed up a chance sighting of a partridge on a side-road near St. Germans and was able to identify the two birds which ran into a nearby field as Chukars (Alectoris chukas), probably a pair. As far as I know this constitutes the first definite sighting in Cornwall, but it is possible that some birds previously identified as Red-legged Partridges (Alectoris rufa) may also have been Chukars. It is hoped that the key below will clarify the differences. For the sake of completeness the similar Rock Partridge(Alectoris graeca) has been included, though I know of no successful introduction of this declining species. My remarks are based mainly on experience of introduced Chukars or hybrids in Lancashire, Oxfordshire and Dumfries & Galloway, and of wild Chukars on Crete and in Ladakh; of Red-legged Partridges in S.E. England and France; and of Rock Partridge in Greece.

Historical background. None of the colourful Alectoris partridges is native to Britain. The Red-legged has been successfully introduced from France into S.E. England since the eighteenth century, but has never established itself in the S.W. During the last twenty years increasingly frequent introductions of Chukars from Asia have led to not infrequent hybridisation which not only makes identification more difficult but more seriously is regarded by some experts as a threat to the future survival of rufa (see e.g. BB 79: 656-657). Hence it is all the more important that these birds be correctly identified so that effective conservation measures can, if necessary, be taken. Identification. All three of these closely related species are sufficiently larger and bulkier than Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix) for this to be noticeable in direct comparison. Once it is established that a bird is of the Alectoris genus, the features to concentrate on are colour of upperparts, head pattern, and flank barring. The finer details of the head pattern are often difficult to see, but normally it is possible to determine the colour of the throat fairly readily. Flank barring varies and may be difficult to judge without direct comparison between species, but the differences between pure Chukar and Red-legged are fairly constant. Hybrids show variable characters, but normally have a more extensive, buffer 'bib' than Red-legged, less

125 extensive black streaks surrounding it (see sketch), and bolder flank bars. Differ­ ences in voice between the three species are not sufficiently clear to be of much use in identification.

KEY Red-legged Chukar Rock Colour of Fairly uniform mid-brown Grey, sometimes Fairly uniform grey upperparts browner on mantle and scapulars

Lores Upper lore black, Pale Mainly black lower lore white Ear-coverts Upper ear-coverts Upper ear-coverts Little brown brown brown Supercilia Pale supercilia from Pale supercilia Narrow pale bill to nape prominent prominent behind supercilia behind eye eye Chin and White 'bib' smallest Pale buff 'bib White 'bib' with throat with narrow black most extensive rounded and dis surround breaking into terminating in tinctly defined extensive dark arrow­ V, with broad black surround, heads. black surround. Flanks Basally grey, black Basally off-white Basally off-white, bars narrowest black bars broadest black bars intermediate

126 The key represents features as they appear in the field. It is of course a simplification and does not define individual and racial variation in colour of upperparts and flanks, but by using a combination of features it should be possible to identify birds seen well.

References

Cramp S. and Simmons K.E.L. (eds.) 1980, Birds of the Western Palearctic, Vol. II. Goodwin D. 1986, The introduction of the Chukar, British Birds 79: 656-657. Jonsson L. 1982, Birds of the Mediterranean and Alps, Croom Helm. Sharrock J.T.R. (ed.) 1976 Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland, Poyser.

Andrew Harrop 16 Yeo Close, Efford, Plymouth. PL3 6ER.

The birds of Little Nanteague and Allet Bog: March 1987 to March 1988.

By A.D. Smith

Introduction

Little Nanteague, a small-holding situated five kilometres NNW of Truro on the SW facing slope of a small WNW/ESE running valley, comprises c.9 ha. of semi- improved pasture grazed by a few beef cattle. It lies at an altitude of c.lOOm.AOD at its highest point, sloping down to c.60m.AOD in the valley bottom. The 9 ha. are divided into seven small fields by Cornish hedgebanks with well established hawthorn, oak, ash, sycamore and holly. Additionally there are the farm buildings with various sheds, now mostly disused, a cowshed, a modern bungalow and and an old cob cottage. Immediately to the north and upslope of the buildings and gardens is a scrubby thicket covering an area of mine waste around an old mine shaft and housing a long established badger sett (Keble's pers. comm.). In the valley bottom paddock there is a shallow 0.25 ha. pond with much emergent vegetation. To the SE of Little Nanteague, running along the valley bottom from c.60m.AOD in the west to c.40m.AOD in the east is Allet Bog: c.22 ha. of mixed broad-leaved woodland, willow carr, unimproved grassland, gorse scrub, juncus marsh, wet heath and a series of streams and and springs which join to flow on into the River Allen. For mainly botanical reasons, most notably the presence of Dorset heath (Erica ciliaris), a red data book species, Allet Bog is a proposed SSSI and a notified Cornwall Trust for Nature Conservation site of Conservation Interest. The whole area is underlain by Devonian grampound grits with alluvium in the low- lying areas. The valley slopes are naturally well-drained, the valley waterlogged. This report is concerned with the birds seen or heard by the author on or over Little Nanteague and Allet Bog and the improved pastures and intensively farmed arable fields of Killivose Farm to the NE during the period 1st March to 26th March 1987. During this period my only significant absence was 26th May to 21st June 1987 and therefore coverage for the month of June was limited. Weatherwise, the year was notable by recent standards for a relatively dry and sunny summer and a mild winter completely free of any major 'freeze - up'. Also included as an appendix are lists of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, butterflies and dragon/damselflies recorded.

127 Systematic list of birds recorded.

Little Grebe - a juvenile on pond July 15th to August 3rd. Grey Heron - singles seen flying up or down valley and occasionally seen coming down to pond, on fifteen occasions, mostly December to February. Bittern - one standing by the track near bridge over stream 19th March 1987. Seen to fly off into adjacent Allet Bog.(AJP pers comm.) - the pond attracted one pair regularly in March and April 1987. There was also a pair May 23rd, six females or immatures July 19th to 21st, a pair December 15th and again in late February 1988. Sparrowhawk - single males or females seen regularly in all months except May and June. Bred locally as one pair attended recently fledged young in woods behind pool in third week of August. Buzzard - regularly seen or heard in all months. Generally one to four birds but eight on February 22nd. One pair bred in mature hedgerow maratime pine, a traditional site (Kebles pers comm.). Fledged unknown number of young in third week of August. Kestrel - surprisingly scarce - singles on five dates only. Peregrine - immature male chasing fieldfares on Allet Bog January 1st. Adult female flew SW over Little Nanteague March 8th. Adult flew NW over Killivose March 16th. (all 1988). Grey Partridge - one on arable fields at Killivose on April 3rd and a pair there November 8th. Bred? Pheasant - seen or heard in all months except June. Maximum 12 along carr/arable interphase of Allet Bog and Killivose January 25th. Males mostly collarless 'colchisus' types. Probably bred. Spotted Crake - one heard calling near pond late evening August 30th. Moorhen - none until one on pond June 21st. Subsequently, single birds seen with three or four chicks throughout July and one pair with chicks July 30th. Unknown number fledged in August but one juvenile taken by dog. Pair remained through to March with three birds present March 22nd. Golden Plover - nine flew west November 11th. Lapwing - two flew north November 30th and 20 with gulls on arable fields to SE of Allet Bog December 20th. Jack Snipe - singles flushed November 8th, December 2nd, February 7th and 22nd but 2 January 11th - all Allet Bog. Snipe - regularly flushed from Allet Bog late October to mid March. Maximum of nine March 6th. Woodcock - regularly flushed from Allet Bog early November to early March. Maximum of four March 6th 1987 and December 2nd. Whimbrel - birds heard flying overhead May 10th and 16th. Curlew

128 - one overhead March 14th, then seen or heard, generally flying south, on 17 dates between July 5th and September 15th. Maximum of five July 11th and August 4th. Greenshank - two briefly by the pond August 24th and a single flew northeast September 13th. Green Sandpiper - one flushed from pond margin August 23rd and one heard flying over Novem­ ber 18th. Black-headed Gull - regular overhead or on Killivose fields mid-July to mid-March. Maximum of 500 March 7th 1988. One unseasonal record of a bird overhead May 23rd. Common Gull - less than ten seen overhead with other gulls on seven dates mid-November to early February. Lesser Black-backed Gull - one east October 3rd, two east October 6th, then none until 50 January 1st. Regular thereafter in similar numbers until mid-February. Herring Gull - seen in all months either overhead or in Killivose fields. Most regular November to February. Maximum of 50 January 1st. Great Black-backed Gull - occasional overhead December to March. Maximum of six February 22nd. Stock Dove - one flew southwest August 1st. Woodpigeon - regularly seen in all months in small groups or singly. Probably bred Collared Dove - singles or small groups regularly seen in all months except June and July. At least two pairs apparently bred at Killivose Farm and one pair at Allet. Turtle Dove - two flew north May 22nd. Cuckoo - one heard April 29th/30th and May 10th. Barn Owl - one flew along the edge of Allet Bog at 21.45hrs. July 21st. Tawny Owl - one or two birds but sometimes three or four heard calling in all months except June. Peak calling September/October, lull in July. Singles flushed from roost September 20th and October 4th. Swift - small numbers seen regularly overhead May 8th and August 4th. Maximum of 35 hawking over the pond June 27th. (Where did they come from? Shortlanesend or Truro?.) Green Woodpecker - one heard calling in woods behind pond December 16th. Great Spotted Woodpecker - male calling from cowshed Ash tree to another bird down the valley June 29th. Thereafter singles seen or heard once or twice a month until February 18th, but with a surprising total of seven records in the last eleven days of October. Skylark - seen or heard in top fields in all months except August. Probably bred. Maximum of 35 on top Killivose field November 8th. Sand Martin - one hawking over pond on evening of April 19th. Swallow - noted regularly April 16th to October 4th. At least one pair bred in outhouse, but numbers formerly larger (Keble's pers. comm.). From mid-August to early September 40/50 regularly gathered over the pond in the evenings - a signifi­ cant local assembly.

129 House Martin - seen over head on five occasions between April 21st and September 29th with a maximum of seven flying east on the last date. Tree Pipit - one pair on the edge of the bog April 29th and a singing male the next day and June 28th. Possibly bred. Singles overhead August 28th and 29th. Meadow Pipit - regular winter visitor from mid-September to early April frequenting pasture and open areas of bog. Maximum of 20 in pond paddock November 24th. Yellow Wagtail - one over pond paddock September 18th. Grey Wagtail -one or two around pond or overhead regularly mid-September to end of Novem­ ber. Irregular thereafter through to mid-February. Pied Wagtail - one or two birds seen or heard overhead irregularly in all months except May and June (poor coverage?). Wren - very common resident seen or heard most days. Bred. Dunnock -common resident seen or heard all months (except May!). Recently fledged young in garden July 14th. Robin - very common resident, seen or heard most days and all months. Recently fledged young in garden July 4th and August 20th. Blackbird - very common resident, seen or heard most days, all months. Fledged young noted August 20th. Fieldfare - regular from early November through to early March. Maximum c.150 on Allet Bog January 1st and 120 February 18th. Song Thrush - seen or heard regularly all months except August with peak of records November to February. Probably bred. Redwing - regularly seen or heard from late October to early March. Maximum 120 flying northeast October 23rd. Mistle Thrush - one or two seen or heard regularly all months except May and August though scarce from March to mid-September. Possibly bred, as pair present with male singing regularly from December 31st to mid-February 1988. Blackcap - male singing at Little Nanteague April 27th to May 23rd and again July 16th and 23rd. Probably bred. Chiffchaff - male singing from March 31st with birds regularly heard to late October. Probably bred. Willow Warbler - first in spring on April 5th. Regular through to Late September. Probably bred. Goldcrest - regularly seen or heard singly or in small parties in all months. Probably bred. Spotted Flycatcher - single birds around cowshed August 30th and September 15th. Long-tailed Tit - regularly seen or heard in pairs or small parties in all months except June and July. One pair bred at Allet Bog as adults seen nest building in hawthorn in April and attending recently fledged young (second brood?) August 24th. Marsh Tit

130 - Common resident with singles or pairs seen or heard in all months except May/June. Probably bred. Coal Tit - scarce resident recorded irregularly in all months except June and January. One pair bred in cavity in stone wall near the cottage. Blue Tit - common resident seen or heard in all months except June. Recently fledged young seen August 20th. Great Tit - common resident seen or heard in all months except June. One pair attended nest in hole in large Ash tree by cottage in April/May and a late brood of juveniles were seen in the garden on August 20th. Nuthatch - one calling from cowshed Ash tree April 10th, one heard in woods July 4th and one seen July 7th. Possibly bred. Treecreeper - elusive resident. Singles seen on three dates in March 1987 and April 19th but not seen again until a single October 3rd. Thereafter recorded on six occasions in all months through to a pair February 18th. Possibly bred. Jay - Common resident seen or heard singly or in small parties regularly in all months. Probably bred. Magpie - Common resident regularly seen in small parties in all months. Maximum of 23 together in Allet Bog February 12th. Probably bred. Jackdaw - Common resident seen in all months. One pair prospected nest sites around the cottage February/March 1987 but moved on. Bred in association with rooks at Killivose and Allet. Maximum of c.120 flew north (to Killivose roost?) evening of October 24th. Rook - common resident seen in large numbers in all months. Four small rookeries of 10 to 25 pairs within 2km of Little Nanteague i.e. at east end of Allet Bog, at nearby Killivose farm, at Allet and by the A30 at Tresawen. Carrion Crow - common resident seen in pairs and small parties in all months. At least one pair bred. Raven - common resident recorded in all months except May and June. Normally one to four birds seen passing overhead, but in February 1988 an extra­ ordinary series of sightings occurred with birds seen everyday 18th to 28th attracted to local lambing fields. Maximum numbers during this period were 15 at Killivose on the 18th and seven together over Little Nanteague on 22rd. One pair thought to have bred at ruined mine engine house north of Ventongimps Farm (SW 7950). Starling - very common resident recorded all months. One pair bred in chimney of cottage. In November to January flocks of up to 1000 regular on Killivose pastures north of Allet Bog. House Sparrow - very common resident recorded all months with four or five pairs breeding in cottage and immediate outbuildings. Chaffinch - very common resident regularly seen or heard in all months. At least one pair bred in garden. Up to 20 regularly present around cow shed November to February. Greenfinch - irregularly recorded in small numbers in all months except June and January. Maximum of 15 on September 17th and 23rd. Probably bred nearby at Allet. Goldfinch

131 - common resident seen singly or in small parties in all months except August. One pair bred near the cottage. Siskin - one flew north October 6th and two flew northeast October 23rd. Linnet - regularly seen in small numbers February to November Maximum of 15 Novem­ ber 8th. One pair bred in conifers at the top of the garden. Redpoll - one flew east over Allet Bog September 27th. Bullfinch - common resident seen in pairs and small parties in all months. At least one pair bred. Yellowhammer - common resident regularly seen or heard in all months. Up to 15 birds around the cow shed November to February. At least one pair bred locally. Reed Bunting - irregularly and infrequently seen on Allet Bog, but probably bred. Three including a male April 8th, a female August 31st and one September 27th.

Appendix

Mammals Butterflies Mole Small Skipper Common Shrew Large Skipper Noctule Large White Pipistrelle Small White Brown Long-eared Bat Green-veined White Myotis bat sp. Orange Tip Rabbit Small Tortoiseshell Grey Squirrel Comma Field Vole Painted Lady Brown Rat Red Admiral Wood Mouse Peacock Fox Silver-washed Fritillary Stoat Ringlet Badger Meadow Brown Reptiles Gatekeeper Common Frog Small Heath Common Toad Speckled Wood Grass Snake Wall Brown Odenata Coenagrion puella Enallegama cyathigerum Pyrrhosoma nymphula Ischnura elegans Lestes sponsa Caleopteryx virgo Aeshna cyanea Anax imperator Orthetrum cancellatum Orthetrum coerulescens Sympetrum striolatum.

132 RINGING REPORT 1987

Compiled by R.J.Salmon.

2757 birds of 58 species were reported as ringed in Cornwall during 1987. Of these, 2243 were full grown (but not necessarily adult) and 514 were pulli (nestlings). The undoubted highlight of the year was the occurrence of the county's first trapped Red-eyed Vireo in the same mist-net as a Yellow-browed Warbler. Persistent, atrocious weather meant that ringers had to bear in mind the golden rule that the welfare of the bird must always be uppermost. The Pied Flycatcher colony now seems to be well established. Despite some waterlogging of boxes a total of 60 pulli were ringed this year. Dippers maintained a foothold in mid-Cornwall but coverage of rivers in the east of the county was poor. Recognition is long overdue for the sterling work put in at his Constant Effort Site at Long Rock Reedbed by Bernard Pattenden. His single-minded dedication and determination has supplied us with much important information which will help serve as useful guidelines for the future. The compiler thanks all ringers for their prompt submissions.

Contributors S.M. Christophers . . . 1000 birds of 33 species at St Columb Major and Par. F.M Couch . . . 592 birds of 23 species at various sites in mid Cornwall. (plus 791 birds of 32 species ringed during 1986) N.B Exelby . . . 19 birds of 8 species at Mullion. G.G. Gynn . . . 351 birds of 36 species at Trevail and Boswednack. J.A.d'E. Miller . . . 133 birds of 24 species at Upper Fowey Valley. B. Pattenden . . . 602 birds of 26 species at Long Rock. R.J. Salmon . . . 60 birds of 5 species at Redmoor Nature Reserve.

Recoveries, controls and colour ring sightings:

Cormorant A nestling, colour-ringed blue with the letters FTA thereon, was noted at Camel Estuary on March 28th, May 14th and August 17th. It had been ringed at Lambay Island, Co. Dublin on 2nd June 1986. N.B. Due to exposure and angle of light it is important to be sure of the colour of the ring, the leg to which it is attached and any combination of other rings. There are two Cormorant colour-ringing schemes current in the U.K. - one at Solway Firth and the other in South Wales. Additionally, foreign colour-ringing schemes are in operation in The Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, East Germany and Poland.

Mallard Ring number GH 41005 ringed as a first year drake at Titchfield Haven, Hants, on 17th February 1986 was observed at Par Beach Pool on 24th August 1987. (A very interesting observation to anyone who thought that all of the ducks at Par were locally bred, tame birds.)

Oystercatcher Ring number FS 76338 ringed as a second year bird at Camel Estuary on 22nd July 1975 was found dead at Hayle Estuary on 18th February 1987. This would appear to be the first evidence of movement between these two Cornish estuaries.

133 Spoonbill Ring number Arnhem 8038230 ringed as a nestling at Terschelling, The Nether­ lands on 11th July 1987 was observed at Camel Estuary on 14th October 1987. This was one of the three birds which stayed at various localities in the county in the late autumn.

Redshank A colour-ringed female ringed at South Uist, Outer Hebrides during the summer of 1985 was observed at Camel Estuary on 6th March 1987 Ring combinations: right leg - dark blue over red, left leg - yellow over metal.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Ring number 3075249 ringed as a pullus at Skokholm Island, Dyfed, Wales on 9th August 1959 was found recently dead at New Polzeath on 25th June 1987. At 27 years 320 days this is believed to be a new longevity record for the species.

Black-headed Gull Once again we are indebted to the pertinacity of Keith Pellow and John Nicholls for the following field observations. Birds ringed in The Netherlands were noted as follows: Ring number 339238 ringed as a second year bird 9th April 1985 was seen at Lerryn on 5th March 1987. Ring number 3294110 ringed as an adult was seen at Newquay on 24th Feb­ ruary 1987. Ring number 3280023 ringed as an adult 10th May 1978 was seen at Newquay on 24th February 1987. Ring number 3268209 ringed as a pullus on 28th May 1977 was seen at Par Beach on 26th February 1987. Ring number 3251227 ringed as a pullus on 5th June 1976 was seen at St Austell sewage works on 5th March 1987.

Birds ringed in Finland were noted as follows: Ring number ST109788 ringed as a recently fledged young on 2nd July 1986 was seen at Lerryn on 23rd February 1987. Ring number ST 93861 ringed as a pullus on 30th June 1985 was seen at Helston on 2nd March 1987.

Birds ringed in the U.K. were noted as follows: Ring number EN27216 ringed as a second year bird at Corby, Northants. on 12th February 1986 was seen at Par on 2nd January 1987. Ring number EJ45715 ringed as a nestling at Elford, Tamworth, Staffs, on 8th June 1985 was seen at Millbrook on 25th February 1987. Ring number EH90919 ringed as a pullus at Stocks Reservoir, Clitheroe, Lanes, on 4th June 1980 was seen at Par Beach 26th February 1987. Ring number EK91982 ringed as a juvenile at Rye Meads, Hoddesdon, Herts., on 8th August 1986 was seen at Helston on 2nd January 1987. Ring number EN78108 ringed as a pullus at Garnhams Island, Hamford Water, Essex on 7th June 1986 was seen at Lerryn on 23rd February 1987. Ring number EN71022 ringed as a nestling at Round Island, Poole Harbour, Dorset on 16th June 1985 was seen at Bodmin on 24th February 1987.

It is quite obvious that Cornwall is a very important wintering area for birds from far and wide.

Barn Owl Ring number GJ51302 ringed as an adult male at Middle Lanherne, St Eval on 5th July 1982 was found dead at Rumford on 10th October 1987. Ring number GH33376 ringed as a pullus at Tremayne, St Columb Major on 24th July 1987 was killed by a car at Penglaze, near Redruth on 15th September 1987.

134 Swallow Ring number C316712 ringed as a juvenile at Lundy Island, Devon on 28th September 1984 was controlled at Par Beach on 16th September 1986 Ring number C496254 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 6th September 1984 was controlled at St Agnes, Isles of Scilly on 29th April 1987. Ring number C746566 ringed as a juvenile at Par Beach on 29th August 1985 was found injured but later released at Welwyn Garden City, Herts, on 17th March 1987.

Blue Tit Ring number B329459 ringed as a juvenile at St Columb Major on 3rd Sep­ tember 1981 was killed by a cat there on 13th June 1987. A good instance of longevity.

Starling Ring number HC51554 ringed as a nestling at Woliza, Mala, Miastko, Slupask, Poland on 27th May 1983 was found freshly dead at Bolventor on 26th Janu­ ary 1987. Ring number XP44977 ringed as a first year female at St Columb Major on 15th December 1983 was found dead at Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, Somerset on 24th March 1987. Ring number RA14878 ringed as a second year male at St Columb Major on 15th January 1985 was controlled at Ouwsterhale, Friesland, Netherlands on 21st February 1987. Ring number RB31358 ringed as a first year male at St Columb Major on 23rd December 1986 was found dead in a bird feeding basket at Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset on 11th April 1987.

Chaffinch Ring number KB52413 ringed as a first year male at Boscastle on 28th December 1982 was found dead there on 12th June 1987 (duration 1627 days).

Greenfinch Ring number NN62410 ringed as a juvenile at St Columb Major on 3rd December 1983 was found dead at Tintinbury, Yeovil, Somerset on 12th June 1985. Ring number NN62423 ringed as a juvenile at St Columb Major on 7th December 1983 was controlled at Alton, Hants, on 12th March 1986. Ring number NA59438 ringed as an adult female on St. Columb Major on 13th February 1985 was found dead at Wadebridge on 7th June 1986. Ring number NA59483 ringed as an adult male at St Columb Major on 26th February 1985 was found long dead at St Austell on 5th July 1985. Ring number VC23027 ringed as a second year male at St Columb Major on 13th February 1987 was found dead at Finney's Drift, Nacton, Suffolk on 26th May 1987.

135 Systematic List of Species Ringed

1987 - Cumulative Totals 1979-1987

Storm Petrel - 1 1 Fulmar - - - 3 - 3 Common Scoter - - - 1 - 1 Manx Shearwater - - - 2 - 2 Gannet - - - 2 - 2 Mute Swan - - - 66 - 66 Shelduck - - 8 8 Mallard - - - 1 - 1 Sparrowhawk 1 - 1 14 -2 16 Buzzard — — — — 19 19 Kestrel - - - - 24 24 Water Rail 5 - 5 16 - 16 Spotted Crake 1 - 1 3 - 3 Oystercatcher - - - 409 6 415 Ringed Plover - - - 203 - 203 Lapwing - - - 24 3 27 Knot - - - 4 4 Sanderling - - - 22 - 22 Curlew Sandpiper - - - 1 - 1 Dunlin - - - 992 - 992 Jack Snipe - - - 1 - 1 Snipe 1 - 1 9 - 9 Woodcock - - - 1 - 1 Black-tailed Godwit - - - 1 - 1 Bar-tailed Godwit - — - 1 — 1 Whimbrel 5 5 Curlew - - - 73 - 73 Spotted Redshank - - - 7 - 7 Redshank - - - 297 - 297 Greenshank - - - 48 - 48 Turnstone - - - 45 - 45 Black-headed Gull 1 - 1 17 - 17 Herring Gull - - - 12 - 12 Guillemot - - - 24 — 24 Razorbill - - 1 - 1 Stock Dove - - - - 3 3 Wood Pigeon - - - 4 7 11 Collared Dove - - - 11 4 15 Cuckoo - - 1 2 3 Barn Owl - -8 8 10 130 140 Tawny Owl - - - 13 12 25 Short-eared Owl - - — 1 - 1 Long-eared Owl - - - 1 - 1 Little Owl - - - 1 2 3 Swift - - - 4 - 4 Kingfisher 2 - 2 7 - 7 Green Woodpecker - - - 3 - 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker - - - 4 - 4 Skylark - - - - 6 6

136 Swallow 387 43 430 3452 428 3880 Sand Martin 3 - 3 43 - 43 House Martin 3 - 3 35 22 57 Tree Pipit - _ _ 7 7 14 Meadow Pipit _ - 35 15 50 Water Pipit - - - 1 1 Rock Pipit - _ - - -5 5 Yellow Wagtail - _ 39 - 39 Grey Wagtail 4 _ 4 18 44 62 Pied Wagtail 7 - 7 161 49 210 Dipper 3 41 44 28 209 237 Wren 56 - 56 834 24 858 Dunnock 34 - 34 705 15 720 Robin 59 _ 59 952 57 1009 Black Redstart - - 2 - 2 Redstart 1 4 -5 9 15 24 Whinchat - - - 11 11 Stonechat - _ _ 43 1-0 53 Wheatear 1 1 322 306 628 Blackbird 25 -5 30 714 104 818 Fieldfare - - 4 - 4 Song Thrush 8 -_ 8 236 30 266 Redwing 2 2 118 - 118 Mistle Thrush - - _ 5 9 14 Cetti's Warbler 4 4 62 - 62 Grasshopper Warbler - - - 28 - 28 Aquatic Warbler 2 - 2 16 16 Sedge Warbler 204 - 204 2485 - 2485 Reed Warbler 223 - 223 2342 -4 2346 Icterine Warbler - - _ 1 - 1 Melodius Warbler - - 1 - 1 Lesser Whitethroat 1 - 1 12 - 12 Whitethroat 7 - 7 206 - 206 Garden Warbler 9 - 9 146 - 146 Blackcap 64 _ 64 439 439 Yellow-browed Warbler 1 1 2 2 Chiffchaff 86 _ 86 735 8 743 Pallas's Warbler - - - 1 - 1 Willow Warbler 72 - 72 1496 97 1593 Goldcrest 116 _ 116 596 596 Firecrest 6 _ 6 49 -_ 49 Spotted Flycatcher 2 - 2 31 60 91 Pied Flycatcher 3 60 63 19 240 259 Long-tailed Tit 53 _ 53 482 1 483 Marsh Tit 7 9 16 120 29 149 Willow Tit 6 - 6 121 - 121 Coal Tit 7 7 132 38 170 Blue Tit 286 26-0 546 3722 1888 5610 Great Tit 54 66 120 979 348 1327 Nuthatch - 7 7 16 44 60 Treecreeper 10 6 16 88 6 94 Jay - - 9 -9 Magpie 1 _ 1 11 32 43 Jackdaw 1 - 1 29 12 41 Rook - 10 - 10 Carrion crow - -4 -4 3 25 28 Starling 57 - 57 1139 - 1139 House Sparrow 52 52 325 1 326 Red-eyed Vireo 1 - 1 1 1 - -

137 Chaffinch 33 3 36 1154 32 1186 Brambling - - 30 - 30 Greenfinch 200 - 20-0 1314 20 1334 Goldfinch 4 3 7 66 12 78 Siskin 2 - 2 49 - 49 Linnet 17 - 17 157 18 175 Redpoll 2 - 2 5 - 5 Bullfinch 35 — 35 423 3 426 Yellowhammer - - - 75 7 82 Cirl Bunting - - - 3 3 Reed Bunting 21 - 2-1 352 4 356 Corn Bunting - - - 1 21 22 TOTALS 2243 514 2757 29329 4028 33357

A STUDY OF ACROCEPHALUS WARBLERS AT MARAZION MARSH 1987

Long Rock Reedbed 50+ 08'N, 5+ 30'W.

Birds ringed SEDGE WARBLER

Apr Jul Aug Sep Oct Total Returned from previous years Adults 3 4 12 59 19 1 Juveniles 2 84 59 2 147

REED WARBLER

Adults - 17 8 25 11 Juveniles 28 112 28 2 170

Cattle were absent from the field on the north side of the reedbed and once again I was able to trap birds in the willows. Reed warblers returned in spring in lower numbers than previous years but there was a slight increase in Sedge warblers. Stormy conditions in May and June played havoc with nesting birds. The very poor total of only two Sedge Warbler and 28 Reed Warbler juveniles ringed in July is proof of the failure of many nests. By comparison, the drought year of 1976 produced totals of 107 and 76 juveniles. Calmer weather throughout July, August and September possibly helped Reed Warbler second broods. The total of 112 juveniles of the species caught in August was the highest ever for this month. No reed aphids were seen during the year. Very few birds were re-trapped which probably indicates that birds were not staying to fatten up. Eleven Reed Warblers were trapped from previous years ringing with the oldest, three years. The lone Sedge Warbler had been ringed the previous year. Two juvenile Sedge warblers were caught in September with tail feathers showing random stages of growth. All feathers were of various lengths but none more than half as long as a normal full-grown tail. This would appear to be a similar anomaly to last year's Aquatic Warbler with half a tail.

138 Juvenile Aquatic warblers were trapped on August 6th and September 27th.

Recoveries

A Reed Warbler ringed as a juvenile 23rd August 1984 was found dead, hit with a stone, 'one day in winter' at Rabat, Morocco 31st December 1986 (date of letter). A Reed Warbler ringed as a juvenile 13th July 1986 was a road casualty locally 2nd August 1986.

Footnote

A male Cetti's Warbler now has a ringing history. A bird first trapped as a juvenile 30th July 1983 has been re-trapped in every year since. On numerous occasions it has been seen and heard by local and visiting birders as it skulks in the willows and blackthorn by the road at Long Rock. It certainly has a charmed life for it is frequently seen flying swiftly across the road at headlamp height. Three very cold winters including a foot of snow covering its habitat this January must also have made life difficult.

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

Bernard Pattenden.

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

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

Rule 2.(Objects) The objects of the Society shall be:- a) To further the study of birds in the field. b) To assist in their preservation. Rule 3.(Membership) The Society shall consist of the following Honorary Officers; President, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, General Secretary, Meetings Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar, Field Meetings Officer,Conservation Officer, Assistant Conservation Officer, Newsletter Editor, Public Relations Officers, Solicitor, County Recorder and Edi­ tor, Assistant Editor, Officer for Youth and Education, General Secretary for the Isles of Scilly and two joint Recorders and Editors for the Isles of Scilly, who shall be fully paid up members of the Society. Any persons under the age of 18 years shall be eligible for Junior Membership, and any person who has attained his or her 18th birthday for Full Membership. Jun­ ior members shall be entitled to participate in the activities of the Society but shall be ineligible for election to the Executive Committee or Officers of the Society. Life Members may be elected on a single payment of £75.00. With a view to recognition of useful service to the aims of the Society, a General Meeting may, upon the proposition and seconding by any members, elect any person to be a Honorary Member of the Sociey without regard to the actual membership or non-membership of such person, who is deemed wor­ thy of such election. Any Honorary Member so elected shall enjoy the right of Full Membership without payment of any subscription being required. The Officers shall be elected annually at the first General Meeting of the year (which Meeting shall be named the Annual Meeting) and shall be eli­ gible for re-election. New Members may be elected at any General or Executive Committee meeting provided they have paid the subscription as required under Rule 4. The Executive Committee shall have authority to exclude or cancel membership to any person if it considers that person has contravened any requirements con­ tained in these Rules or legislation relating to bird protection or the countryside, or any other matter which the Executive Committee consider offends the well-being, aims or objectives of the Society.

Rule 4(Subscription) The Subscription shall be £5 for Full Members: £2.50 for each additional member of the same family sharing the same literature: and £1 for Junior Members, payable on election and thereafter on the 1st January. But any member who pays the first subscription after 39th September in any year, shall not be liable to pay a Full Members subscription until after the close of the current year. A member whose subscription is three months in arrears shall, after being reminded, cease to receive the Society's publications and when six months in arrears shall be deleted from the list of members.

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

140 member proposed for election to the Executive Committee together with the names and addresses of a proposer and seconder must have been received by a Secretary at least 10 days before the Annual Meeting. This Committee shall be elected annually at the Annual Meeting and shall deal with all business and any obligation undertaken by the Executive Committee on behalf of the Society shall be an obligation of the Society. The Executive Committee shall have power to add to this number subject to confirmation at the next Annual Meeting. No ordinary member shall serve on this Committee for more than three consecutive years. The Executive Committee shall delegate five Officers - Chairman, Vice Chair­ man, General Secretary, Treasurer and Conservation Officer to be known as the Management Team - to be responsible for the day to day decisions on the Sociey's affairs. Those delegated should agree unanimously on their decisions and report to the next Executive Committee for confirmation of their actions. Rule 6.(Meetings) General Meetings shall be held as often as necessary but not less than twice a year, one of which shall be the Annual Meeting. The Executive Committee shall meet when necessary for the transaction of routine business. All meetings shall be convened in consultation with the Presi­ dent and Chairman. A special general meeting may also be called at the request of the Executive Committee or any fifteen members by application to the General Secretary, such application to be accompanied by details of the motion or motions to be moved.

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

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

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

141