West Midland Bird Club Annual Report No. 73 2006 The Birds of , , and the 2006

Annual Report 73

Editor D.W. Emley

Published by 2008 Published by West Midland Bird Club

© West Midland Bird Club

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Website: http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com/

ISSN 1476-2862

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Price £9.00 The Birds of Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands 2006

Annual Report 73

Contents

4 Editorial 5 Submission of Records 6 Birds and Weather in 2006 13 Systematic List 215 Ringing in 2006 221 Franklin’s Gull at Blithfield; a first for Staffordshire 223 County Lists 230 Gazetteer 237 List of Contributors 241 Index to Species

Front Cover Photograph: Goldfinch on Teasel, Dave Taylor

3 Editorial Global Warming is a phenomenon with which we are all familiar these days. It manifests itself in all aspects of the natural world; that of birds being no exception. Some of our residents are nesting earlier while many of our summer migrants are arriving earlier and staying longer, up to three weeks in some cases. It is not possible to show these relatively rapid changes using the average arrival and departure dates as they cover too long a period (over 70 years in some cases) so this year I have included the average dates over the previous eight years (not including the current year) – as used in New Birds of the West Midlands. With over 600 contributors to the Report this year it is inevitable that there are many with the same initials – indeed there are seven with CS alone! In order to make sure that those specifically mentioned in the species reports get their deserved recognition, we have decided to abandon the use of two-character initials and instead add subsequent letters of the surname until we get a unique set of initials. Hopefully this will avoid any ambiguity. British Birds has announced a number of changes to the scientific names of some of our gulls, for so long in the genus Larus! Black-headed and Bonaparte’s Gulls are now in Chroicocephalus while Sabine’s is in Xema and Little in Hydrocoloeus. The changes mean that the position of these species in the sequence used in the Report also changes. Thankfully, BBRC has now raised Caspian Gull to a full species – something most of us had done already! Modern technology came to the fore this year when a radio-tagged Honey-buzzard was recorded flying over Chase without anyone actually seeing it. The world of virtual birding is indeed upon us! Thanks are due to Andy Warr who retired as Recorder for Worcestershire at the end of 2007. His place has been taken by Brian Stretch and we wish him well in that post.

Acknowledgements I would like to thank all those who helped with this year’s report. I am especially grateful to all those who contributed records, especially those sending in valuable census data; to Roger Broadbent for his article; to artists and photographers Phil Jones, Dave Kelsall, Steve Seal, Graham Soden, Dave Taylor, Steve Valentine and Andy Warr for making their work available; to Bert Coleman for his informative ringing report and above all to the County Recorders and their teams: Warwickshire: Jonathan Bowley Worcestershire: Andy Warr and Brian Stretch. Staffordshire: Nick Pomiankowski, Report Writers; NDP, Neil Carter, Martin Godfrey and Andy Lawrence, Rarities Committee; Eric Clare, Bernard Smith, Mark Sutton, Steve Turner and Steve Nuttall, Site Report Compilers; Mike Boote, Graham Evans, Steve Nuttall, Ray Perry, Brenda Scott; Data Input and proof reading; Mary Holley. West Midlands: Kevin Clements, Gareth Clements and John Oates. I would like to thank Mike Gaydon of Healeys and my wife Sue, for her support and help during the compilation of this report. David Emley

4 Submission of Records

All contributors are asked to follow the guidelines set out in the booklet A Checklist of the Birds of the West Midlands and a Guide to Status and Record Submission (second edition 1989). A copy of these can be found on our website http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com. All records should be sent to the relevant County Recorder as soon as possible after observation. Concise, though adequate, field descriptions (including how the species was identified, the circumstances of the sighting and the observer’s experience of the species) should accompany records of all species – marked as A in the Details column of the checklist. In addition, descriptions are required for all out-of-season migrants, unusual hybrids and scarce sub-species, including Scandinavian Rock Pipit, Blue-headed and other flava race wagtails, White Wagtail (autumn only), Black-bellied Dipper, Greenland Wheatear and Chiffchaff races. The lack of an acceptable description may lead to records being rejected.

Records should be sent to the appropriate County Recorder:

Warwickshire Jonathan Bowley 17 Meadow Way, Fenny Compton, , Warwickshire CV47 2WD [email protected]

Worcestershire Brian Stretch 13 Pitmaston Road, Worcester, WR2 4HY [email protected]

Staffordshire Nick Pomiankowski 22 The Villas, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 5AQ [email protected]

West Midlands Kevin Clements 26 Hambrook Close, Dunstall Park, , West Midlands, WV6 0XA [email protected]

Ringing Secretary All ringing recoveries and sightings of colour-marked birds should be sent to: A E Coleman, 67 Park Lane, Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs, B78 3HZ.

Records can be sent electronically as Excel, Word, CSV or RTF files or on record slips. These are available from the Club Secretary (address inside back cover) at indoor meetings or a copy can be downloaded from our web site: http://www.westmidlandbirdclub.com/. Another alternative that is proving very popular is the BTO’s BirdTrack website http://www.bto.org.uk/birdtrack/. Data entered here can be accessed, with permission, by the County Recorder, thus obviating the need to send in slips etc.

David Emley, 23 Leacroft, Stone, Staffs, ST15 8GF [email protected]

5 Birds and Weather 2006

2006, the warmest year for 90 years, saw 239 species recorded in the Region compared to 242 in 2005 and 235 in 2004. There were no additions to the Regional list but Staffordshire had its first Franklin’s Gull and first acceptable Stone Curlew while Worcestershire recorded its first Lesser Scaup, of which there were three in the year. A number of species put in their first appearance for many years. They include Staffordshire’s first Red-backed Shrike since 1956, Warwickshire’s first Gull-billed Tern since 1899, Worcestershire’s second Long-billed Dowitcher and Staffordshire’s and the Region’s second Glossy Ibis – the first being in 1840. Wood Larks bred for the first time in Worcestershire, reflecting the increasing fortunes of this species. In Staffordshire Egyptian Goose bred for the first time and both Firecrest and Mediterranean Gull attempted to do so while Osprey summered for the first time in Warwickshire. On the other hand, Pied Flycatchers failed to be recorded on passage in Warwickshire for the first time since 1972.

January was a rather dry month but it began rather changeable with some light rain and cloud but with temperatures dropping to zero overnight when clouds cleared. Long-staying birds remaining from 2005 included three Great Northern Divers at Draycote, Black- necked Grebe at Dosthill, Smew at Drayton Bassett and , Yellow-browed Warbler at Baswich, Bearded Tit at Napton, Firecrest at Baggeridge CP and Farnborough Park, Great Grey Shrike at Walton-on-Trent and Hawfinches at a number of sites. The large roost of Common Ravens at Swallow Moss in 2005 peaked at 71 on the 4th. New birds included Red-crested Pochard at Branston and three Snow Buntings at . Two Hen Harriers were seen on most evenings on Swallow Moss being joined by a third bird on the 20th. A small passage of Pink-footed Geese began with 20 over Apedale on the 2nd to be followed by 300 over Baddeley Green on the 4th. A ridge of high pressure built from the 5th to give cloudy but dry weather for the next week. A Water Pipit was found at Doxey on the 5th while an Egyptian Goose on the 6th remained there into April. A flock of five Waxwings at Aldridge on the 7th increased to 21 on the 30th. A Bean Goose of the Taiga race fabalis was identified at Defford Airfield on the 8th. The weather became more unsettled from the 9th as a series of depressions spread in from the Atlantic bringing rain. Four Bean Geese of the Tundra race rossicus were found near Ingestre from 13th to 19th. White gulls were scarce with just an adult and first-winter Iceland Gull at Draycote on 12th and 13th while Smews were seen at Belvide and Croxall on the 14th and 15th. Warm south-westerlies coming in off the Atlantic on the 19th gave rise to the warmest temperatures of the month; Keele recording 10.7°C. However, high pressure then built and dominated to the end of the month producing a cold spell with some overnight frosts. On the 22nd 65 Pink-footed Geese passed over Tittesworth while three Smew were at Whitemoor Haye and a Water Pipit at Essington. Two Red-necked Grebes arrived at Alrewas on the 28th and were joined by a third on the 29th. A Slavonian Grebe was seen at Draycote on the 28th and two Iceland Gulls at Bartley. On the 29th, five Common Crossbills were seen on and a Marsh Harrier at Brandon while a Common Redpoll was picked up at Hanchurch on the 31st.

February began cold with high pressure still dominating. At Keele the temperature did not get above freezing for two days. A cold front pushed south on the 7th with a north-westerly wind bringing a few wintry showers. There were, however, good spells of sunshine. An incredible 118 Reed Buntings were recorded going to roost at Belvide on the 2nd. The

6 Slavonian Grebe at Draycote remained to the 7th while the highlight of the month must be the Lesser Scaup, a first for Worcestershire, that appeared on the at Grimley on the 11th and then at other localities in to March. A Firecrest was found at Kempsey STW on the 11th and two Common Redpolls at Birchmoor on the 12th. An Atlantic depression over Biscay on the 18th allowed cold, brisk easterly winds to spread over the Region with wintry showers and temperatures below freezing in places lasting for a week or more. A female Ring-necked Duck at Napton Reservoir on the 19th was possibly the bird from last year. On the 20th a flock of 20 Mandarins was seen by Whitmore Hall while the 21st saw a Black-necked Grebe at Draycote and a White- fronted Goose over Wormleighton Reservoir. Seven Whooper Swans at Doxey on the 25th were the first there for 20 years. Meanwhile a Marsh Harrier dropped in at Ladywalk and a Red Knot at Belvide where a female American Wigeon was a good find on the 26th. The month ended with further wintry showers brought in by a north-westerly wind following the passage of a cold front southwards.

The weather at the start of March was dominated by low pressure over the North Sea which brought a period of cold weather and wintry showers on a north-westerly airflow and temperatures at Keele dropped to –5°C. A flock of 12 White-fronted Geese passed over Marsh Lane NR on the 2nd while seven Smew were seen on Pool on the 3rd and four at Dosthill on the 4th. A male Hen Harrier arrived at Defford airfield on the 4th and was seen in a number of localities in to May. The break-up of a weak ridge of high pressure on the 7th produced heavy showers with some of the rain turning to snow. This may have been responsible for the arrival of Gannets at Tittesworth on the 12th and at Valley on the 15th. A cold easterly airflow then set in for a few days with temperatures below freezing in parts and a Little Ringed Plover at Wiseman’s Scrape on the 15th and a Barn Swallow at Bredons Hardwick on the 16th probably wondered why they had bothered to arrive so early! The first Garganey was noted at Pype Hayes Pool on the 17th and a Waxwing at while a count of 303 Eurasian Curlew at Tittesworth on the 19th was a site record. Despite low temperatures persisting, the first Northern Wheatear was seen on on the 22nd and on the 23rd the first Sand Martins at Coton and Draycote and first House Martin at Coton too. From the 23rd there was a transition to milder conditions but this brought with it unsettled and showery weather. A Great White Egret was discovered at Chesterton Pools on the 24th along with a Grey Plover at Belvide. A Brent Goose was seen at Salford Priors and a Twite at Blithfield on the 26th. The appearance of a Great Skua at Draycote on the 27th and a Gannet at Holts Heath on the 28th coincided with a period of heavy rain and strong winds in the west. The end of the month was marked by a welcome increase in temperature even though it remained showery. The first Ring Ouzel of the year was found at Berry Hill on the 30th while the first Cuckoo was seen at Happy Valley and Yellow Wagtail at Draycote on the 31st.

April started unsettled but warm with Pershore reaching 14.7°C on the 2nd. Three Avocets arrived at Upton Warren on the 1st and remained to breed while the 2nd saw the first Common Swift at Belvide and Tree Pipit on Cannock Chase. A Firecrest was a nice find at Belvide on the 3rd as was a Honey-buzzard at Knypersley on the 4th along with the first Common Redstarts at Bredon Hill and Lodge Farm. On the 5th, a ridge of high pressure built from the west giving rise to dry and fairly sunny conditions but with frost at night in parts. High-pressure gave way early on the 6th and a more unsettled period of weather followed with low pressure dominating. A Ring-billed Gull was found at Bredon’s

7 Hardwick on the 7th and a Great Grey Shrike at Belvide on the 8th. The wind then turned northerly bringing showers, wintry in parts. An active weather system then brought rain across all parts of the region on the 11th. This was followed swiftly by a weak weather front on the 14th which left the Region relatively dry and sunny. Black-necked Grebes appeared at Blithfield and Gailey on the 11th and 12th respectively. Two Avocets at Blithfield on the 14th moved to Whitemoor Haye the next day. A Common Crane was an exceptional find at Bateswood on the 17th while two Red-breasted Mergansers were found at Blithfield and 26 Northern Wheatears at Berry Hill on the 19th. It then became warm with temperatures rising as weak fronts crossed the Region from the 25th. High pressure dominated from 26th giving dry weather before allowing fronts to push in from the west. On the 22nd an immature Montagu’s Harrier was found at Whitemoor Haye while on the 23rd the first Whinchats were picked up at a number of sites and an impressive flock of 52 Black-tailed Godwits dropped in at Belvide. A ring-tailed Hen Harrier passed through Blithfield on the 26th while the 27th saw the first Turtle Dove at Little Comberton and the 28th the last Brambling at Shooting Butts. An over-shooting Hoopoe was found at Harborough Magna on the 29th while a Spotted Crake, heard calling at a site in Staffordshire on the 30th, remained there until May 13th.

May began with showers in many parts courtesy of a low pressure system in the north-west. Pressure then began to rise and a period of warm and settled weather set in for a week or more. The 1st saw five Bar-tailed Godwits at Upton Warren and a passage of 110 Arctic Terns through Staffordshire while four Dotterel at Whitmore on the 2nd were a surprising find. Early Common Quail were picked up at Whitemoor Haye on the 3rd while the 4th saw a Montagu’s Harrier over Bredon Hill and a surprising Long-tailed Duck at Grimley New Workings. More Hoopoes were found on the 5th at Ingestre and Charlton. Continuing wader passage was represented by six Whimbrel at Tittesworth on the 6th and on the 7th two Temminck’s Stints at Barton and two Red Knot at Blithfield where there was also a Roseate Tern. A Grey Plover was then seen at Upton Warren on the 8th. From the 10th, pressure once again increased bringing plenty of dry, sunny and warm weather; Keele recording 16°C on the 12th. However, this triggered some thunder storms and the weather generally turned cooler with a mixture of sunny spells and showers, some heavy and thundery, particularly on the 13th when Pershore recorded 22mm in 12 hours. A Spotted Redshank was found at Salford Priors on the 16th and a female Black Redstart at Packington on the 18th. On the 19th a Slavonian Grebe was found at Alvecote but the undoubted highlight was the Gull-billed Tern at Kingsbury. The 17th to 23rd saw an other unsettled and showery period, some of the showers being quite heavy and temperatures were generally lower. Waders continued to pass through with nine Sanderling at Blithfield on the 20th and a Black-winged Stilt at Upton Warren on the 21st. There was also a sprinkling of Common Quail too. Towards the end of the month pressure began to rise with the weather becoming more settled. A Honey-buzzard drifted over Milford Common on the 25th while Staffordshire had its first reliable Stone Curlew - at Elford on the 27th. The month ended with a Spoonbill over Westport Lake on the 30th.

Generally June was a warm, very dry and sunny month. At Keele the monthly rainfall total of 19mm was nearly 50mm less than the average! It was not surprising then that no rain was recorded there for 20 consecutive days. High pressure dominated the first third of the month and temperature rose to over 20°C by the 12th. Three male Common Scoter were found at Belvide on the 2nd, a Sanderling at Draycote on the 3rd and further Common

8 Quail at Lower Moor and Weston Jones on the 4th and 9th respectively. A Black-necked Grebe was seen at Belvide on the 9th but most surprising was a first-summer Great Northern Diver at Newbold Quarry from the 10th–16th! A more unsettled spell developed from the 11th as a cold front became stationary over south-east . This brought some welcome rain to most places. It may have been responsible for the Manx Shearwater at Blithfield on the 14th while a flock of 11 Common Scoter dropped in at Tittesworth on the 17th when a Red-crested Pochard was seen in Central Forest Park in the Potteries. A deep area of low pressure developed in the Atlantic on the 19th in association with ex- tropical storm Alberto. This produced some unusually strong winds for June. An adult Temminck’s Stint was found at Upton Warren on the 22nd. The end of the month saw temperatures falling with Keele only managing 10°C on the 27th. There were further Common Quail reported across Staffordshire and another flock of 11 Common Scoter at Bartley on the 24th.

July was again exceptionally warm and sunny, with below average rainfall. The monthly total of 14mm rain at Keele was, as last month, 50mm below normal. Having said that the 2nd saw torrential downpours and large hail triggered by high temperatures and the 5th and 6th heavy and thundery showers. The bird of the month was undoubtedly the Lesser Scaup at Tittesworth on the 1st; the second one in the Region in a year. On the same day there were two Black-necked Grebes at Belvide and also at Brandon on the 2nd. There was the first signs of a returning wader passage with a Grey Plover at Belvide on the 5th. A Common Quail was found at Whitmore on the 6th and further Black-necked Grebes at Throckmorton, Belvide and Copmere while a Red Knot was found at Throckmorton Lagoons on the 9th. High pressure became established again over the UK on the 14th, lasting until the 18th. Temperatures peaked on the 19th when Keele recorded 31.3°C – a record for that station but continuing high temperatures triggered heavy thunderstorms across the Region on the 22nd. A Quail was found at Rous Lench on the 19th and Red Knots at Throckmorton on the 20th and Blithfield on the 31st. By the 30th, temperatures had dropped to around 17°C as a band of rain spread slowly eastwards bring showers to many parts.

August was an unsettled month with some heavy, thundery downpours especially mid- month. At Keele rainfall was nearly 60mm above the norm. Nationally it was the dullest since 1986 and this is borne out by Keele’s sunshine figures being 25 hours less than the norm. The month started with heavy, scattered showers and fairly low temperatures for the time of year. A cold front brought some heavy rain overnight into the 7th and, as temperatures lifted, Pershore reached 29.7°C. Wader passage gathered pace at Blithfield with Red Knot on the 2nd, Grey Plover on the 3rd and Spotted Redshank on the 4th. A Temminck’s Stint was found at Salford Priors on the 6th and two Red-crested Pochard at Marsh Lane NR on the 8th. The 8th started fine but rain spread overnight to clear again the next day. Showers developed later; torrential in some parts of the country. The highlight of the month was Staffordshire’s first Franklin’s Gull at Blithfield on the 9th. A Ferruginous Duck was found at Blithfield on the 12th, remaining there to September 8th while a Red Knot arrived there on the 14th. An Atlantic low off SW England brought heavy showers on the 15th which developed more widely on the 16th. Further bands of heavy rain moved in on the 17th and there was even a tornado in ! The showers persisted until the 19th. A Black-necked Grebe was seen at Belvide on the 18th while five Little Egrets were noted at Blithfield on the 19th – a sign of the times! There

9 was brief respite from the rain before a cold front brought rain, hail and thunder on the 23rd. This showery weather continued to the end of the month. Three Dotterel touched down on Bredon Hill on the 20th while a Spotted Redshank was at Blithfield on the 23rd and a Pectoral Sandpiper at Belvide on the 24th, which date also saw a Wryneck in a garden at Boldmere. Black-necked Grebes were seen at Kingsbury on the 27th and Draycote on the 29th.

On the whole, September was a very warm month; Keele recording its hottest September since 1952! Both rainfall and sunshine hours were above normal. Bands of rain dominated the first week of the month courtesy of a low pressure system. Three Black-necked Grebes were at Belvide on the 1st and a Curlew Sandpiper at Blithfield. On the 3rd, Belvide was host to a Great Skua while a Red-necked Grebe was at Brandon on the 4th and a Pectoral Sandpiper at Kinsham Lake on the 5th. A warm and humid airflow produced high temperatures from 11th to 13th and some heavy, thundery rain too. There followed a generally quiet spell of weather, with temperatures remaining above average with some fine and sunny days. Another Red-necked Grebe appeared on the 8th, this time at Belvide, and a Red-necked Phalarope at Upper Bittell. On the 9th a Curlew Sandpiper turned up at Brandon and a Spotted Redshank at Westwood while Blithfield was host to a respectable, these days, flock of 100 Yellow Wagtails. A Curlew Sandpiper was seen there on the 10th while Red-crested Pochards were seen at Ladywalk (three) and Tixall on the 13th. From 11th to 14th a major passage of Black Terns took place with over 300 birds reported across the Region. The 14th saw a Spoonbill, Grey Plover and Curlew Sandpiper at Blithfield and a Wryneck in a Bromsgrove garden. On the 15th there was a Black-necked Grebe at Draycote, Pectoral Sandpiper at Blithfield and Curlew Sandpiper at Drayton Bassett. The 16th saw a Ferruginous Duck at Chasewater and Arctic Skua at Draycote but the most interesting bird was a satellite-tagged Honey- buzzard that was known to have flown over the Chase but which was never seen! Is this the first record of a virtual tick! A Honey-buzzard was seen on the 17th at Belvide while the highlight of the month was a Glossy Ibis at Burton-on-Trent; the second county and Regional record – the last being in 1840! A band of heavy rain pushed into western areas on the afternoon of 18th and was responsible for a Manx Shearwater at Draycote. A Wryneck arrived at the National Motorcycle Museum on the 20th and remained until the 23rd. Remnants of hurricane Gordon late on 21st brought strong winds with further sightings of Manx Shearwaters at , Penkridge and Aqualate on the 23rd. A Pectoral Sandpiper was at Marsh Lane NR from 22nd-26th, while a Sabine’s Gull was reported at Blithfield on the 24th where there were also 11 Little Stints. The 25th produce two nice birds; a Great White Egret at Lowsonford and a Long-billed Dowitcher at Upper Bittell which remained into October. By the 27th Blithfield had accumulated four Pectoral Sandpipers while a Hoopoe was found at Reedswood Park on the 28th and a Black Kite at on the 29th. The month ended with heavy showers and winter’s first Jack Snipe at Upton Warren and Brambling at Ladywalk.

Overall, the weather in October was unexceptional with both temperature and sunshine average and mean rainfall above average with some heavy downbursts. It was an unsettled start to the month with low pressure bringing rain and showers; some heavy and thundery. These eased and a cooler feel introduced on north-westerly winds. The 5th and 6th saw another area of low pressure bringing strong winds and bands of rain or showers, some heavy before a dry few days were interrupted by more heavy showers on 8th/9th. A

10 Snow Bunting was found on Worcestershire Beacon on the 2nd and a Twite with a Linnet flock at Bramcote Hall on the 3rd. Waders continued to pass through with a Red Knot at Bittell on the 4th and a Grey Plover at Belvide on the 8th while a Ferruginous Duck was seen at Brandon on the 10th. Warm weather continued until the 24th with winds from the south-east moving round to the south and south-west and bringing showers, some heavy. A late Whinchat was found at Lower Moor on the 12th, while a Red-backed Shrike at Berry Hill on the 15th drew many admirers during its stay to the 23rd. A Red-throated Diver at Slough on the 17th remained to the 23rd. The 18th saw a Leach’s Petrel at Blithfield, two Bearded Tits at Napton Reservoir and a Shore Lark at The last Common Swift was seen at Westwood on the 19th. A Ring Ousel at the White House on Cannock Chase on the 20th was joined by four more on the 22nd – an exceptional gathering. Meanwhile, the last Northern Wheatear was reported from Blithfield on the 23rd. Late Wood Sandpipers were seen at Blithfield on the 25th and Upper Bittell from 30th to November 2nd. From the 26th an area of low pressure passing to the north or north-west, brought bands of rain and showers to most places, Keele recording 21mm on one day, while temperatures were above average. More settled conditions and sunshine on the 29th and 30th brought a pleasant few days for the end of October. A skein of 100 Pinkfeet passed over Clay Mills on the 28th while a Great Skua was seen at Draycote on the 30th. Four Whooper Swans were seen at Smestow Valley on the 31st and a Red-breasted Merganser at Blithfield remained in to November.

Mean temperatures in November were generally 1 to 2°C above average, which confirmed the warmest autumn for 90 years. While sunshine hours were above average, some areas experienced above-average rainfall. The first week saw high pressure bringing the first overnight frosts. As the high slowly declined, the dominant feature was dense fog over many areas on the 5th and 6th. More Red-breasted Mergansers were found on the 1st, this time at Bartley and Draycote, where there was also a Slavonian Grebe. The 2nd saw two Brent Geese at Whitemoor Haye and another Snow Bunting at Worcestershire Beacon. The bird of the month was another Lesser Scaup, this time at Blithfield on the 3rd. Blithfield then had a Smew on the 4th while a late Garganey was at Fisher’s Mill GP on the 5th and four Red-crested Pochard at Draycote on the 6th. Cloud and rain on the 8th gave way to a dry day on the 9th with overnight frost. The next week became increasingly wet, though remaining mild. A skein of 50 Pink-footed Geese passed over Stoke on the 10th while there was a Water Pipit at Blithfield. Two Hawfinches were found at Combrook on the 15th and a male Red-breasted Merganser at Draycote on the 16th. Following a few days of wet and windy weather it became colder from the 18th with frosts before low pressure dominated the remainder of the month bringing frequent spells of heavy rain and showers. A Leach’s Petrel was seen at Westwood on the 19th and a Ring- billed Gull at Tittesworth on the 20th. The other contender for bird of the month was a most unexpected Red-rumped Swallow at Norbury Junction on the 21st. A Great Northern Diver arrived at Chasewater on the 23rd to be joined by a second on the 25th and then a third on 29th and these remained to December 16th! Draycote hosted a Brent Goose and a Slavonian Grebe on the 25th while on the 26th a skein of 20 Pink-footed Geese passed over Tittesworth, a Glaucous Gull was found at Chasewater and a Shag at Napton Reservoir. Another Glaucous Gull was found on the 27th at Dosthill while there were two Slavonian Grebes at Chasewater and six Bewick’s Swans at Draycote on the 28th where there was a Great Northern Diver on the 29th.

11 With a wet and windy start and end to December, mean temperatures, rainfall and sunshine were all above average. Unsettled conditions affected most of the British Isles with strong to gale force south-westerly winds predominating, bringing in Atlantic frontal systems and producing a lot of rain in places. The 3rd, in particular, was very stormy. This heralded a significant “wreck” of wind-blown waifs with 11 Leach’s Petrels, a Pomarine Skua and a Manx Shearwater being found between the 5th and 9th. A Snow Bunting a at Chasewater on the 1st remained to the end of the year, as did a Smew at Croxall, while a Shag lingered at Branston from 2nd to 10th. Draycote held a Red-throated Diver and two Great Northern Divers on the 5th while Tittesworth had two Red-crested Pochards. A party of seven Bewick’s Swans was at Blithfield on the 18th before moving to Belvide on the 19th. The run up to Christmas saw several days of freezing conditions, with fog lingering in many parts. As the anticyclone began to move away into the continent on the 27th a frontal system brought some rain and somewhat milder temperatures. The year ended with a very windy, though relatively mild spell as an area of low pressure developed. A Great White Egret was seen at Salford Priors and a Siberian Chiffchaff at Salford Priors on the 17th while on the 18th there was a Glaucous Gull at Bartley and a Smew at Fisher’s Mill GP. A Great Skua at Draycote on the 26th remained into the New Year – a nice Christmas present and the fourth in the Region this year! An Iceland Gull was seen at Chasewater on the 26th while the year ended with a Great Grey Shrike at on the 29th, seven Bewick’s Swans at Bredon’s Hardwick on the 30th and 200 Tree Sparrows at Whitmore on the 31st – the largest flock in Staffordshire for many years.

With thanks to Keele University Weather Station and the Meteorological Office’s Weather Log.

Dave Emley

12 Systematic List

The sequence of species and the scientific names follow those of The British List (British Ornithologists’ Union, 2003) with amendments (British Birds Vol. 99:1). The English names are those published in British Birds (Vol. 86:1), with amendments (Vol. 97:1). Records of distinctive subspecies are listed separately immediately after the commonly occurring race, their commonly used English names appearing in italics. All records of species within Categories A-C of ‘The British List’ appear in the main section, even if suspected of being of captive origin, though the latter are not included in the totals. All other species appear under Appendix 1 or Appendix 2 (Exotica); these mainly refer to escapes from avicultural collections. In the case of hybrids, the species listed first is that deemed by the observer to have contributed the dominant characteristics. Records of National rarities are only published if they have been accepted by the BBRC, with the only exceptions being well-documented records which are still being assessed due to late submissions.

The status comments are based on current knowledge and must therefore be highly subjective, although not beyond modification in future reports. The figures in brackets after these comments, in species recorded less than annually, are a measure of frequency and refer to the number of calendar years in which they have appeared during the previous ten years, i.e. not including the current year.

The waterfowl tables include the Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) counts for selected species. As these are done on the same day, they give a snapshot of the total population at a given time.

For migrants the average arrival and departure dates for the last eight years not including the current year are included as well as the long-term average.

A key to the contributors to these notes appears at the back of this Report.

The following status categories have been used: Ve r y ra re fewer than ten records ever. Rare ten or more records, but less than annual (recorded in nine or less of the last ten years). Breeding less than annually. Scarce fewer than 20 birds occurring per annum or 10 pairs breeding. Uncommon 20-100 birds occurring or 10-50 pairs breeding. Frequent 100-500 birds occurring or 50-250 pairs breeding. Fairly common 500-5000 birds occurring or 250-2500 pairs breeding. Common 5000-20000 birds occurring or 2500-10000 pairs breeding. Very common 20000-50000 birds occurring or 10000-25000 pairs breeding. Abundant 50000+ birds occurring or 25000+ pairs breeding.

The following abbreviations have been used: CBC Common Bird Census NR Nature Reserve CP Country Park Res Reservoir GC Golf Course SF Sewage Farm GPs Gravel Pit(s) STW Sewage Treatment Works

13 Mute Swan Cygnus olor Fairly common and increasing resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton – – – 30 111 108 218 246 150 72 61 38 Draycote 542231842493551322 Kingsbury area 23 12 14 12 50 48 70 41 35 46 28 20 Ladywalk 69522–81012101046 Salford Priors GP 6324698913211211 Shustoke 147222––9153127 Bittell Reservoir 322262765––– Bredonʼs Hardwick 36 21 30 3 4 2 6 2 23 18 Grimley New Workings 822422222522 Gwen Finch Wetland 6––3104444315 Kinsham Lake 652222222535 Pirton Pool 12 17 11 11 11 26 38 42 11 16 20 2 Upton Warren 454822422355 Westwood Pool 643638990232 Alrewas 7 159 – – 70 27 6––814762 Aqualate 132543283534181764 Aston to Burston Trail4222–––––––––– Belvide 31 21 41 6 20 85 130 94 11 5 16 12 Blithfield ––56––16914838––7 Chasewater 40 42 42––76364–5541 Croxall GP 9––6––39––11–– Doxey 14910151714151718141013 Elford Gravel Pits 601185471–––––9276 Whitemoor Haye 150501507050–6–33–207240 Marsh Lane NR 78 17 12 19 10 22 16 17 24 16 10 46 Sandwell Valley 12 10 15 30 24 25 18 2 1 12 7 2 Smestow Valley 544452–22322 WeBS 2005 816 535 642 613 419 638 596 569 663 697 538 484 WeBS 2006 523 715 587 591 462 630 624 636 582 643 656 432

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks A total of 36 breeding pairs was located, with single nests unless otherwise stated at: Bedworth Slough, Brandon (three, but only one brood hatched), Charlecote, , Coombe Abbey, Coton, Cryfield, Dosthill Lake, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park (two), Fulready, Great Alne, Guy’s Cliffe (River Avon), Kingsbury WP (two), Ladywalk, Lea Marston, Lighthorne Pools, Lower Radbourn, Marlcliff Weir (River Avon), Middleton Hall, Napton Res, Priors Marston, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool, Shipston (River Stour), Shustoke, Stoneton Moat, Temple Pool (Upton), Warwick (three) and Whittleford Park. In addition to the tabulated sites, other counts of 15 or more included 23 in a field off Woodford Lane, Hartshill on January 31st, an exceptional (for recent years) 115 at Alvecote on February 10th, 39 at Coombe Abbey on March 11th, 15 at Sweet Knowle on 21st, 26 at Hall Pool, Packington Park on April 10th, and 24 on a new pool at Longbridge on December 10th. Worcs Breeding pairs were reported from Bredon’s Hardwick, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, Pirton Pool (two), Lagoons and Upton Warren (two). The only notable count made away from the tabulated localities was of 117 on the River Severn at Worcester on March 3rd. Staffs Breeding was reported from Aqualate (eight cygnets were hatched, but by mid- August only one had survived), Belvide (six cygnets), Burton-on-Trent (three cygnets),

14 Castletown Pool (one nest), Chasewater (eight pairs bred with a total of 21 cygnets), Coldmeece (one cygnet), Dead Waters (one pair), Doxey (six pairs), Fauld (two pairs bred with one pair raising nine cygnets, some possibly “obtained” from another brood) Greenway Bank CP (two cygnets), Tixall (one cygnet) and Woodmill (one pair bred taking young to Swarburn River). Maximum untabulated counts include 103 at Burton-on-Trent on August 1st, 64 at Drayton Bassett on July 18th and 47 on June 11th, 40 at Burston on January 26th and 20 at Copmere on December 7th. W Mid Breeding was only reported from Dartmouth Park, No.2 Canal at Primrose Bridge, Dunstall Park, Hill Hook LNR, Marsh Lane NR (three pairs), Rocket Pool, Sandwell Valley (two pairs), Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park and Trittiford Park. Birds were also noted in the breeding season at Clayhanger Marsh, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, The Leasowes, Netherton Reservoir, Walsall Arboretum and Whitley. At Powell’s Pool (Sutton Park) 30 were counted on March 19th and 26 on October 8th. Further reports came from Balsall Common, , Mary Stevens Park, Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley and Stubbers Green. Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus Frequent, though declining winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks The few records all came typically from Draycote, with four adults there on November 11th, six on 28th and two on December 28th. Worcs Three flew south over Junction 6 of the M5 near Worcester on December 17th and seven adults frequented the river meadows at Bredon’s Hardwick on 30th. Staffs As can be seen from the table, recent years have seen a progressive reduction in sightings, after a peak during 2002 and 2003.

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Herds 4 5 9 8 6 3 3 Birds 16 10 41 44 17 15 10 Three flew west over Belvide on January 27th and one was recorded at Westport Lake on November 5th PJon. A party of six adults and a juvenile landed at Blithfield on December 18th GJM, moving on later to Belvide and staying there until 19th, with three adults and the juvenile staying until 20th SNu. W Mid Three birds were seen to fly in to land at Reedswood Park on January 28th. Bewickʼs Swan, Westport Lake, Dave Kelsall

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Scarce or uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also a recent feral visitor. Warks There were three at Draycote on March 9th and one on December 28th RCM. Staffs In the early winter period, two adults commuted around the Croxall/Sittles Farm/ Alrewas/Whitemoor Haye area from January 1st until March 19th and two birds which visited Blithfield on March 27th might have been the same pair. Seven adults were at

15 Doxey on February 25th, the first record there since 1986. In the late winter period the first report came from Blithfield where two adults arrived on October 30th, these were then joined by another on November 2nd. Also on November 2nd three adults and a juvenile were present at Belvide and three at Whitemoor Haye. During the rest of November, two were at Whitemoor Haye on the 3rd and 23rd, visiting Croxall on the 5th and 19th; on the 4th one was at Elford, on the 8th four were at Chasewater and an adult and a juvenile at Aqualate on the 12th. In December the same two birds were reported at Whitemoor Haye/Sittles Farm throughout the month and also at Croxall on the 24th. W Mid Four adults flew westwards over Smestow Valley on October 31st – the second local record GAC. 2005 Corrigendum W Mid The adult that visited Marsh Lane NR briefly did so on October 2nd, not November as published. Whooper Swan X Mute Swan Warks The long-staying adult at Alvecote was reported occasionally during the year. W Mid One was noted at Marsh Lane NR on January 28th and eight dates from September 10th to December 9th. Bean Goose Anser fabalis Rare winter visitor (7/10). Worcs One discovered grazing in a wet meadow at Defford Airfield on January 8th MSm et al, was identified as being of the Taiga race A. f. fabalis This record constitutes the first of this race for the county. Unfortunately this site is strictly private and the landowner permitted only limited access for a few birders. It had departed by the following morning. Staffs Four birds of the Tundra race rossicus were located at Pasturefields, near Ingestre, January 13th-19th GJM et al. Taiga Bean Goose, Defford, Andy Warr Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor to Staffs, but normally rare further south. Also a scarce feral visitor or escapee. Warks A presumed feral bird occasionally consorted with Greylag Geese at Brandon from January 1st-21st, and was then seen at Coombe Abbey on March 11th-12th, and back at Brandon on April 16th-17th. Worcs The only report this year came from Grimley New Workings, where one was present on May 10th. Staffs The very large movements reported in 2005 were not repeated this year, only two skeins of over 100 being reported in the entire year. On January 2nd 20 flew north-west over Apedale at midday while on the 4th the largest skein of the year, numbering 300, was seen in the late afternoon over Baddeley Green. One present at Belvide from the 12th to the 28th, was joined by a second bird on the 25th. On the 22nd, 65 flew over Tittesworth and 50 passed over Knypersley Reservoir. In February, 85 flew over Tittesworth on the

16 22nd. The only March records came from Belvide with one on the 2nd and 26th and in April the last of the early winter period were four at Blithfield on the 14th. The only summer record was of a feral bird at Westport on June 5th. In October, 100 flew east over Clay Mills on 28th. On the 10th November 50 flew north over Stoke while on the 26th, 30 flew over Tittesworth. On the 17th December an unknown number flew over Little Stoke at 6pm when it was dark. On the 26th one on the River Sow at Baswich with Canada Geese was also seen at Tixall Bridge, Milford and and then from the 27th-28th what was probably the same bird was at Doxey.

White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant. Also scarce feral visitor or escapee. Warks An adult flew south at Wormleighton Res on February 21st JJB. Staffs One of the European race, believed to be a wild bird, was seen at Belvide on October 24th CSW, SNu et al. W Mid Twelve flew over Marsh Lane NR towards the northeast on March 2nd, the third record for the reserve per NPB.

Grey Geese sp. Warks Six, thought to be Pinkfeet, flew over Salford Priors GP on March 26th. In December, skeins of 21 flew south-east at Wormleighton on 2nd and 75 north-east over Oversley Hill on 17th. These were thought to be either Whitefronts or Pinkfeet.

Greylag Goose Anser anser Frequent feral resident, mainly to north Warks but increasing and spreading elsewhere.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 130 73 56 41 36 60 36 120 216 23 185 189 Dosthill/Kingsbury 81 130 78 – 31 40 55 190 280 130 120 101 Bredonʼs Hardwick 43 61 46 12 2 1067568–65 Kinsham Lake ––94629243536––20 Lower Moor 49 28 30 10 10 17 60 72 75 – 34 49 Belvide 78–4182–200152163122118108 Blithfield –47538––48951481046340 Branston GPs 10080–––––––89–– Denstone 92 – – 14 – – – 50–––– Doxey 31563–––21011 Drayton Bassett Pits––––––6559–––37 Elford Gravel Pits –276–––8–––4 Whitemoor Haye –––308–3–14––– Marsh Lane NR 365 60 80 13 10 6 300 310 372 443 350 300 Smestow Valley ––1432–––––10 WeBS 2005 409 185 166 99 135 223 234 158 352 332 222 293 WeBS 2006 187 149 143 109 107 256 337 286 476 301 602 536

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Broods were noted at Brandon (ten from at least a dozen nests), Charlecote (four), Great Alne (five), Kingsbury (two) and Morton Bagot (two). In the north maxima included 183 at Seeswood Pool on February 28th and 100 at Maxstoke on September 22nd. The only count of note from Coombe Abbey was 63 on March 11th. Further south maxima included 33 in the Spernall/Studley area on March 13th, 46 at Charlecote GP on August

17 9th, 22 in the Salfords on September 10th, 22 at Draycote on December 15th and 23rd, and 36 on the Avon meadows at Hampton Lucy during November-December. Worcs Still increasing as a resident breeder, in the south of the county, with four pairs observed with 21 young at Kinsham Lake on June 20th, whilst three pairs bred at Lower Moor and one at Bredon’s Hardwick. Away from the tabulated sites, Westwood Pool held four on March 29th, one was noted at Hewell Grange on April 4th, three were at Grimley New Workings on 25th and May 14th, three at Bishampton Vale Pool on May 1st and singles at Upton Warren on 6th and Arrow Valley North on June 11th. The post-breeding flock of 75 from Lower Moor visited Throckmorton Lagoons on September 14th and 17th, whilst at Upper Bittell Reservoir two were reported on 18th, October 7th and 10th. Two flew over Abberton on September 21st and the Canada Geese flock at Arrow Valley North attracted one on October 22nd, two on 29th and one on November 22nd. Staffs The only breeding record received came from Byrkley Park where 20 goslings were hatched. Maximum untabulated counts include, up to 200 at Byrkley Park “at various times of the year”, 134 at Dunstall on November 25th and 78 on January 29th, 61 at Brookleys Lake on October 15th, 60 at Radford on December 5th and 30 at Whitemoor Haye on April 30th. A bird seen at Belvide with a white ring numbered 4JU had been ringed as an adult at Hogganfield Loch, Glasgow on July 8th 2006 as part of a ringing study, this being the first subsequent sighting. W Mid In February, at least 25 were at Balsall Common on 11th and at least six flew over Hall Green on 20th. Other sightings involved one at Dartmouth Park on March 23rd and 24th, two on Bracebridge Pool (Sutton Park) on April 4th, singles at Sheepwash UP on May 6th and Mary Stevens Park on October 1st, and about 250 over Meriden on December 4th, presumably heading towards Marsh Lane NR. Sightings at Sandwell Valley included one in February, three in March and two in May.

2005 Addendum Warks There were 180 at Coombe Abbey on September 19th.

Greylag Goose X Bar-headed Goose Worcs One was at Kinsham Lake on March 30th and at Lower Moor on April 26th.

Greylag Goose X Canada Goose Warks At Abbots Salford, a Greylag paired to a Canada Goose, had two hybrid goslings in tow on May 21st. In addition a single adult hybrid was there from April 2nd-May 21st. A single bird was in the Charlecote/Hampton Lucy area on February 18th, April 30th and again on December 12th, with probably the same bird on the Avon at Stratford on May 25th. Another bird was present in the Lea Marston/Whitacre Heath area from November 3rd to the end of the year. Worcs Kinsham Lake held one on April 13th and two on September 5th. W Mid Single birds were noted amongst flocks of Greater Canada Geese at Trittiford Park on January 14th, 24th and 31st, at Marsh Lane NR on April 14th and at Dunstall Park on September 11th.

Greater Canada Goose Branta canadensis Common and increasing feral resident. Fairly common breeding species

18 Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 280 150 141 142 135 150 280 250 305 145 200 270 Brandon 126 126 96 105 71 112 107 164 65 137 75 231 Coton/Lea Marston ––––49251242815710824096 Draycote 300 220 115 21 18 190 270 255 600 133 93 166 Kingsbury WP area 330 124 170 105 140 260 265 310 380 123 315 166 Bittell Reservoir 34 2 43 37 8 51 121 112 29 182 99 130 Bredonʼs Hardwick 272 142 26 37 162–22498–458 Grimley New Workings 250 385 250 130 52 38 78 665 168 378 26 220 Gwen Finch Wetland 47 3 15 31 142–––63–56 Kinsham Lake –16717254117813327 Pirton Pool 62 10 8 36 64 8 47 86 84 24 28 65 Upton Warren 170 85 95 35 28 23 39 190 408 160 6 230 Westwood Pool 537 8 6 12 30 65 80 130 197 60 15 550 Alrewas ––––34120200–––150– Aqualate 180 5 26 30 48 51 45 16 6 409 375 358 Belvide 351–––75170171380263481300– Blithfield –142––––220292505519486250 Chasewater 46 52 22––7411336848–34 Croxall GP 200 – – 35 –––––96400– Doxey 531 502 240 145 169 364 327 340 816 700 923 742 Drayton Bassett ––––––4032––124– River Sow, Baswich42–36––––––444560 Tittesworth 165 24 45 50 25 427 365 65 – 136 200 245 Whitemoor Haye –––40––165–6––– Dunstall Park 203 274 138 12 14 23 – 192 250 73 68 – Fens Pools 51 34 21 25 9 68 57 15 15 48 44 43 Marsh Lane NR 65 10 3 24 8 12 4 52 31 5 2 22 Sandwell Valley 122 182 48 100 80 50 50 12 – – 30 30 WeBS 2005 4771 4756 2996 1828 1598 4259 2801 3739 3176 3703 2447 2854 WeBS 2006 3252 3035 2070 1693 1606 3160 2890 3805 2999 3590 2625 2770

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Counts of broods included 13 at Abbots Salford, eight at Brandon, six at Kingsbury WP (north), four at Ladywalk and six at Ryton Pools CP. 26 goslings were noted at Chesterton on May 1st. Maxima at non-tabulated waters included 200 at DMC Kineton on August 30th, 229 at Chesterton on November 7th, and a peak of 325 on river meadows at Hampton Lucy on December 12th. Other flock counts included 120 at Alvecote in January; 125 at Coombe Abbey in March; 125 at Salford Priors GP, 176 at Shustoke and 120 at Stratford-upon-Avon in September; 135 at Stirch Pools (Priors Marston), 120 at Seeswood Pool and 125 at St Nicholas Park (Warwick) in November; with 147 at Ladywalk and 140 at Walton Hall in December. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from many localities throughout the county. Outside the breeding season and away from the tabulated localities, 215 were at Saxon’s Lode on January 7th, 170 at Lower Moor on March 4th, 60 at Pools on September 17th, 199 and 192 at Lower Moor on November 6th and December 20th respectively and 184 at Arrow Valley Lake on December 24th. Staffs Few breeding reports this year, those submitted were from Aqualate (18 goslings), Belvide (11 goslings), Byrkley Park (14), Chasewater (five), Doxey (32 – double the previous three year average), Handsacre (five) and Tixall (10). Maximum untabulated counts include 422 at Ingestre on August 23rd, 400 at Coldmeece on August 27th and 141 on January 2nd, 300 at Radford in November and December, 160 at Stanley Pool on March 5th, 150 at Branston GP on August 6th, 125 at Rudyard on August 26th, 100 at Burston on

19 November 26th, 90 at Brookleys Lake on December 31st and 74 at Byrkley Park in January. W Mid Breeding was only reported at Dartmouth Park, Dudley No.2 Canal near Netherton Reservoir (two pairs), Dunstall Park (six pairs, but just two were successful, each fledging four young), Grapes Pool, Rocket Pool, Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP. Birds were also noted in the breeding season at Aldridge, Burys Hill, Chadwick End, Clayhanger Marsh, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, The Leasowes, Park, Mere, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR, Walsall Arboretum and Whitley. Away from the tabulated sites, high counts included 136 at Powell’s Pool (Sutton Park) on February 4th, 120 at Trittiford Park on 5th, 135 along the Daw End Branch Canal at Aldridge on April 14th, 100 at Whitley on September 25th and 105 at Mary Stevens Park on October 1st. Also recorded at Balsall Common, , Cannon Hill Park, The Dingles, Haden Hill Park, Priory Fields, Titford Pools and Warrens Hall LNR. 2005 Addendum Warks A total of 301 were culled at Coombe Abbey in 2005 per PEH. Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis Rare winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon feral visitor or escapee. Warks Two present at Draycote at the end of 2005 remained until April 26th and there were three there from January 12th-14th. Up to two were again noted at Brandon all year, with one of these occasionally visiting nearby Coombe Abbey. Three very wary birds at the Great Pool, Packington Park on April 12th were earlier seen over nearby Marsh Lane NR (West Mids), and were thought to be possibly of wild origin. The only other reports involved singles at Salford Priors GP on May 21st and by the to the south of Napton Hill on October 2nd. Worcs A single bird was observed with Canada Geese at Saxon’s Lode on January 7th and at Bredon’s Hardwick, two were present on February 2nd, one from March 28th-April 23rd, two on May 1st and six on 13th, 14th and 26th. Singles also reported during the first winter period at Holt Prairies on February 12th and Grimley New Workings on March 12th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised singles at Kinsham Lake on August 31st, Gwen Finch Wetland on October 28th, Lower Moor from November 6th-21st and Bredon’s Hardwick on December 16th. Staffs The only flock reported in the early winter period came from Croxall with 52 on March 3rd. At Doxey the four long-staying individuals from November 2005 remained until March 22nd. One was at Higher Lower Perton Lake on March 18th and one visited Belvide from April 26th until May 2nd. Summer records include two at Blithfield on June 28th and one at Whitemoor Haye on July 10th. At Blithfield, August began with two on the 9th but the next day 29 arrived being noted as “the usual autumn arrival of these feral birds”. This flock fluctuated in numbers between 23 and 40 throughout the month with 34 on September 6th being the last record. Elsewhere in August, on the 23rd six were at Ingestre with 422 Canada Geese and one Bar-headed Goose and two were at Croxall on the 28th. At Doxey six arrived on September 10th and remained until October 1st; on October 29th five arrived and from then on until the year’s end birds remained with up to 10 present at times. Two were at Blithfield on October 1st while one at Croxall on November 5th, 18th and December 2nd also visited Whitemoor Haye on November 18th. At Stourton on December 20th one hit power lines and was taken into care. This bird had BTO ring number 1500058, ringed at Cannon Hill Park, on July 26th 2005. All birds here are assumed to be from feral populations.

20 W Mid Three flew over Marsh Lane NR on April 12th, the first for the reserve. One flew over Dunstall Park on September 11th, whilst on December 21st there were two in Sandwell Valley and one at Netherton Reservoir.

Brent Goose Branta bernicla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Single birds were noted at Salford Priors GP on March 26th MLi and Draycote on November 25th RCM. Worcs One was observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on January 16th KWh and an adult commuted between Pixham Meadows and Kempsey Lower Ham on December 10th SMW et al. Both were of the dark-bellied race. Staffs Two of the dark-bellied race visited Whitemoor Haye from November 2nd-5th GJM, RCBr, ESC. W Mid A dark-bellied individual was seen briefly at Box Trees on December 27th MJI.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Rare feral visitor or escape (9/10). Warks Single birds were reported at: Alvecote on several dates during March 12th-26th RLS et al, Abbots Salford from April 28th-30th BGP, Kingsbury on May 2nd several observers, and Abbots Salford again on September 1st BGP. Worcs One was at Lower Moor from February 25th-March 12th RAP et al and Arrow Valley Golf Course held one on October 15th, two on 29th and one on November 5th and 12th SPay. Staffs A pair bred for the first time in the county – at Aqualate. At Doxey one was present from January 6th until April 10th, one at Croxall on April 23rd and one at Whitemoor Haye on April 30th remained until 22nd May.

Monthly maxima JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 66–4324–3–89

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Frequent passage migrant and summer visitor and winter visitor. Scarce or uncommon, but increasing breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 16212121134–3––47 Brandon 1244321––111 Coton/Lea Marston ––2363–––––– Dosthill/Kingsbury 7 10985144–2–37 Draycote 22–19–3––3–3 Ladywalk 443522–1–––2 The Salfords –1246––11–12 Bredonʼs Hardwick –426–––––––2 Gwen Finch Wetland 67321––––––– Kinsham Lake 22243––––––– Lower Moor –12252–––––1 Upton Warren 3533221233224 Aqualate 5 12 7 15 96––––11 Barton GP –624–2–––––4– Belvide 21176––11–1–

21 JFMAMJ JASOND Blithfield 24662–5155––– Branston GPs 151817–3554861810 Croxall GP 14775––––––1 Doxey 11122––––––1 Drayton Bassett 66781325244–––4 Whitemoor Haye 66121861–2–––– Marsh Lane NR 2744221–––26 WeBS 2005 36516833401912660112 WeBS 2006 204670575526511989

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Only two broods reported (cf. six in 2005) and both were lost. One of 12 hatched at Alvecote had all perished by the next day, while a brood of ten, hatched at Kingsbury in May, were all subsequently lost to predation and flooding. Away from the main tabulated sites very small numbers were noted at five further localities in the Tame Valley area. Further south there were records of one flying north along the Fosse Way at Ditchford on January 27th, one at Earlswood Lakes on April 1st, two in flight over Stoneleigh GC on May 7th, and singles at Napton Res on November 2nd and Charlecote GP on December 31st. Worcs Successful breeding pairs were confirmed at Lickmore Wetland and Upton Warren, where 10 young were fledged. Pairs were also present during the breeding season at Bury End Flash (two), Longdon Marsh and Lower Moor, whilst juveniles were observed in August at Grimley New Workings (two), Ryall Pits (four) and Upper Bittell Reservoir (three). Away from the tabulated sites, Westwood Pool held singles on February 5th and March 12th, plus two on 14th, three at Grimley New Workings on February 12th, preceded singles on April 9th and May 3rd and one was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on February 19th. Three flew over Defford Airfield on March 7th and pairs were noted at Cropthorne on April 16th and Upper Strensham Pool on 22nd. During the second winter period, Westwood Pool held three on October 10th and one was at Longdon Marsh on December 31st. Staffs Breeding reports came from Drayton Bassett Pits where two broods of ten and eleven on June 5th had, by July 15th, each been reduced to seven. On July 8th two broods at Branston GPs had, by the 22nd of the month, merged into one brood of nine. At Hints GPs there was a brood of two on July 17th. Away from sites in the table, the only significant count was of 11 at Westport on May 17th. Records were received from a total of 28 sites. W Mid A juvenile was noted at Marsh Lane NR on July 14th. Other sightings involved two birds at Bartley Reservoir on March 13th and November 10th, two at Sheepwash UP on April 8th, one at Sandwell Valley in May and two over Dunstall Park on June 15th.

Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata Uncommon, but increasing, feral resident and visitor. Warks Most records this year came from Abbots Salford, where birds from Worcestershire may be in the process of becoming established. There were reports of up to three (two males and a female) on many dates here during the period January 20th-June 4th, with up to two (a male and female) from September 6th-30th. Elsewhere in the county there was a bird at Draycote on January 12th, four males in Packington Park from April 15th-May 9th, a male at Brandon on September 8th and a female at Coton on October 18th.

22 Worcs Possibility now extinct as a breeding species around Bredon Hill and the surrounding area, with no females or juveniles reported during the spring and summer months, but a drake was observed at Ashton-under-Hill on April 24th. Within a five mile radius of Bredon Hill, drakes were also reported at Bredon’s Hardwick from March 26th- April 14th, Lower Moor on 2nd, May 16th, 17th and 24th and Throckmorton Lagoons on 25th. In contrast, good numbers were recorded in the Wyre Forest region. Four young were reared along the Dowles Brook, where two pairs were present during the breeding season and at Trimpley Reservoir, 10 were counted on March 4th, 11 on 5th, seven on 18th and a pair on May 28th. held two females on March 5th, a drake on April 30th and five on May 4th. Away from the two aforementioned regions, a pair was along the at on March 23rd, two drakes visited Westwood Pool on 25th, a pair was on the River Severn in Worcester on April 1st and drakes at Flint’s Dingle on 7th and Abberton on May 13th. In July one flew over on 6th, a female was at Lower Moor from 12th-23rd, a female at Trimpley Reservoir on 12th and two pairs still frequented the Dowles Brook. Trimpley Reservoir and the adjacent River Severn, continued to attract birds during late summer and the autumn, with two on August 8th, three on September 13th, five on 24th and October 9th and six on 20th. Elsewhere a female/immature was at Grimley New Workings on September 4th, a drake at Westwood Pool on 22nd, two females at Throckmorton Lagoons and a female at Pound on 17th and three pairs on the River Teme at Bridge on November 15th. A females was on the River Severn in Worcester on 30th and December 1st, Pool held six on 6th, then one on 27th, one flew over Stoke Bliss on December 9th and three drakes were on Spetchley Lake on 27th. Staffs Breeding records came from Branston GPs where a female was seen with three ducklings on June 18th but, by July 8th, only one had survived. Calwich Abbey had a brood of ten on July 4th. At Keele University a brood of five, first seen on June 23rd and almost fully grown by July 16th, constituted the first breeding record for the site. Wolfscote Dale held two broods of three and four on July 16th. The highest individual counts include 20 at Whitmore Hall on February 8th, 11 at Brookleys Lake on October 15th and 10 on December 31st and eight at Fauld on May 27th. During the year two males and two females were observed at Tittesworth on 19 occasions, but never more than two at a time. Records from other locations, in ones and twos unless otherwise stated, as follows; in January at Belvide, Byrkley Park, Norbury Manor and Upper Hatton; in February at Bratch Locks in March at Crumpwood and Okeover Weir; in April at Croxdon, Denstone Hall, Norbury Manor, Swallow Moss, Trentham Gardens and Under Whittle; in May Blake Brook at Reapsmoor, Crumpwood, Wettonmill and Whitmore; in June at Brund Mill, Manifold Valley and Meaford; in July at Dovedale, Stableford, Whitmore and Winkhill; in August at Blithfield, Branston GP, Byrkley Park and Winkhill; in September at Brookleys Lake; in October at Shugborough (four); in November at Branston GP, Brookleys Lake (five) and Waterhouses and finally in December Branston GP (three).

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Dunstall 56–4––––––3– Keele University ––25–26––3–– Tittesworth 22–21–12––11 W Mid A pair was at Olton Mere on January 3rd. A female was at Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) on March 29th. A drake flew southwards over Smestow Valley on October 29th and November 4th, with undoubtedly the same bird seen along the Staffs. & Worcs. Canal at Wightwick on November 10th and December 1st, 25th and 31st.

23 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope Common winter visitor, scarce in summer.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 200 250 221 33111–226013741 Alvecote 16018024020–2––26708580 Brandon 30 3 173––1150928046 Charlecote/Wasperton 91 109 95 10––––2126252 Coton/Lea Marston 25 – 20––44111160121 Dosthill/Kingsbury 220 146 3087324820100156206 Draycote 300250370103––5307135150 Hodnell 100 125––––––––95220 Ladywalk 200 92 602––1–2504001613 Shustoke 1601491274––––41078596 Bittell Reservoir 983014–––––7 540 Bredonʼs Hardwick 381 1216 800 50111169212250463 Chateau Impney 162––––––––3066101 Grimley New Workings 8 7 10–––––1011– Gwen Finch Wetland 76 100 90–––––––1522 Gwen Finch Wetland 43 77 731––––4––7 Kinsham Lake 16–––––––13193212 Upton Warren 2431––––462423 Westwood Pool 33 15 4901–4–20742102 Alrewas 4 200–––––––7010120 Aqualate 93 32 64 113–––6469171 Aston to Burston Trail60100150––––––––– Belvide 30816817714–2678757114127 Blithfield 300 1044 500 120–1568073409425 Chasewater 147 48 31–––6443669067 Croxall GP 50 135 806–1–––3120– Doley Common 85 60 223–––––––40 Doxey 6252–––448315952 Drayton Bassett Pits–––––––320–28100 Tittesworth 42–992––––1440–53 Whitemoor Haye 20300160––––––40300100 Marsh Lane NR 302 320 300 181–1284218300300 Sandwell Valley 45 30 48––1––222512 WeBS 2005 3701 3489 2200 47231224561010 1228 1627 WeBS 2006 1673 2672 1828 2022854814379351938

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks There were more summer records than usual, particularly in the Tame Valley where two females which summered on Cliff Pool, Kingsbury are known to have been injured birds. Away from tabulated sites a male also spent the summer at Wormleighton Res. Autumn numbers away from the Tame Valley were generally low, with the wintering flock at Draycote not arriving until the end of November presumably due to the mild weather. Away from the main sites, maxima elsewhere included 20 at Coombe Slade Pool (Brailes) on January 8th, 29 at Coombe Abbey on 15th, 24 at Salford Priors GP on September 17th, 20 at Stirch Pools (Priors Marston) on November 2nd, and 51 at Lower Radbourn on December 17th. Up to ten were also reported from: Chesterton, Compton Verney, Earlswood, Edstone, Farnborough Park, Knightcote, Lighthorne Quarry, Morton Bagot, Napton Res, Seeswood Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs A female summered at Bredon’s Hardwick, a drake was at Throckmorton Lagoons on April 23rd and four unseasonable birds appeared at Westwood Pool on July

24 28th. Away from the tabulated localities, the first winter period produced counts of 16 at Pirton Pool on January 15th, 10 over Little Comberton on 17th, 25 at Ryall Pits on February 11th, 12 at Pirton Pool on 12th, 35 at Abberton on March 13th and 65 at Lower Moor on 14th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised nine at Clifton Pits on September 12th, 13 at Pirton Pool on 16th, eight at Birtsmorton Pools on 17th, 85 at Lower Moor on November 26th, 28 at Kempsey Lower Ham on December 10th and 30+ at Longdon Marsh on 31st. Staffs Maximum untabulated counts were 155 at Dosthill on September 21st, 120 at Okeover Weir on January 13th, 107 at Fauld in January and December, 80 at Foker Grange on March 17th and 60 at Heaton on January 24th. Birds were reported from a total of 40 sites. W Mid Other sightings included one at The Mere (Norton) on January 31st, four at Netherton Reservoir on February 3rd, four over Dunstall Park on September 16th and two there on November 1st, and singles at Fens Pools on October 20th, over Smestow Valley on October 27th and at Dartmouth Park on December 21st. Singles were also seen at Sheepwash UP in February, April and December, and birds were noted at Clayhanger. American Wigeon Anas Americana Very rare vagrant (3/10). Staffs A female bird was expertly picked out amongst the wintering Eurasian Wigeon flock at Belvide on February 26th where it remained until March 28th SNu. It was believed to have been present since February 12th at least. It was the fourth county record, the last being at Blithfield in 1998. Gadwall Anas strepera Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Uncommon breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 82140551828532506 710 Brandon 18 19 1954631628505430 Coombe Abbey 59 47 20––––––––– Coton/Lea Marston – 71 20 – 26 34 50 49 31 36 141 108 Dosthill/Kingsbury 62 60 31 30 28 52 31 75 90 100 81 123 Draycote 27242414–211711428 Ladywalk 72 29 100 22 – – – 12 114 134 68 6 Salford Priors GP 29 43 28 21 7 10 12 21 28 26 26 32 Shustoke 87624122––––61228 Bredonʼs Hardwick 2054––––––114 Grimley New Workings 35 16 12 22 6 10 12 16 42 38 21 51 Kinsham Lake 1616123––––2114 Upton Warren 4714126–2–3555 Westwood Pool 47 3882573246213 Aqualate 3 2 114677262–6 Belvide 48334024306734526447378 Blithfield –1308––825156105 Branston GPs –9–––975––535 Chasewater 31 38 301211313815 Croxall GP 9222–4––4––– Elford Gravel Pits 302984––––––64 Marsh Lane NR 36 40 36 7 6 11 12 22 20 23 45 26 Sandwell Valley 5 6 24 9 8 20 13 8 11 11 1 15 WeBS 2005 242 223 200 144 88 89 44 245 259 292 309 312 WeBS 2006 274 182 154 97 87 101 76 142 183 249 260 262 Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

25 Warks A record breeding season, with broods noted at: Abbots Salford, Fisher’s Mill GP, Kingsbury WP (four), Ladywalk (two), Lea Marston, and Salford Priors GP (four). Other sites to attract very small numbers during the year included: Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Earlswood, Hodnell, Lower Radbourn, Napton Res, Ufton Fields and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Three to four pairs bred at Grimley New and Old Workings, but still no evidence of breeding attempts made away from this locality. Away from the tabulated localities, one was at Bittell Reservoir on February 12th, 16 at Lower Moor on March 7th, 13 at Bittell Reservoir on 22nd and Strensham Lagoons held four Drakes and three females on 26th and a pair on April 17th. Reported at Pirton Pool during the autumn and second winter period, with four present on September 16th, a pair on November 10th and one on December 17th, whilst at Bittell Reservoir one was noted on 23rd. Staffs Breeding confirmed at Aqualate with broods of two and six, at Belvide where there was a total of 33 ducklings, Branston GP a brood of six, at Drayton Bassett Pits where seven broods produced a total of 48 ducklings and at Woodmill where there was a female with a single duckling. Possibly bred at Needwood where nine pairs were seen prospecting five sites. Maximum untabulated counts include 45 Drayton Bassett Pits on June 11th and 15 at Dunstall on November 22nd. Reported from a total of 24 sites. W Mid A pair bred at Marsh Lane NR, raising nine young – the first breeding record for the site. Other sightings involved one bird at Sutton Park on February 4th, three at Netherton Reservoir on February 20th, a pair at Sheepwash UP on May 1st, two males and two females at Dunstall Park on October 6th and a female at Berkswell on December 4th.

Eurasian Teal Anas crecca Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer, but a rare breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 160 120 130 38 19 3 5 11 80 80 60 60 Brandon 232 121 102 53 24 11 35 114 192 275 311 260 Coton/Lea Marston 71 17 1522–417124153 Draycote 2008516075––420676377130 Kingsbury area 70 120 52 32 8 6 14 25 34 50 55 73 Ladywalk 68 81 80 16––31590501419 Salford Priors GP200155613324780145350220177 Bittell Reservoir 7060403–––371361136 Bredonʼs Hardwick 23 24 694––––22–33 Grimley New Workings 38 15 50 30–––17633 Gwen Finch Wetland 173 180 14 11–––77076102168 Kinsham Lake 1016123–24210423 Lower Moor 25 114 105 707–––––8525 Pirton Pool ––2––––4238–2 Upton Warren 60 70 75 39 1 4 10 24 121 108 72 130 Westwood Pool 120 100 10220313173086106 Aqualate 57 4 3162––1112–3850 Aston to Burston Trail401035––––––––– Astonfields Balancing Lake18188–––––––13– Belvide 458 227 150 84 29 7 20 92 250 435 410 330 Blithfield 100 57 30 40 – – 35 246 437 398 1189 394 Chasewater 1504–2––1482018– Croxall GP 12 – 50––––––83142– Doley Common 40 20 80 60–––––––30 Doxey 113 138 50 44 14 – 7 20 330 160 112 256

26 JFMAMJ JASOND River Sow¸ Baswich12404520––––––1818 Tittesworth 703643722512389210084 Goscote Valley 2082–––––6141417 Marsh Lane NR 97 60 20 12 – 2 4 14 87 153 183 153 Sandwell Valley 24 32 25924102840807077 Saltwells LNR 9106–––––––63 Sutton Park 7452–––––4–– WeBS 2005 2048 1115 1236 312 5 27 21 441 1375 2086 1330 2442 WeBS 2006 1601 1228 922 384 3 14 52 252 909 1455 1365 1568

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Good numbers remained into the breeding season, but again there was no direct evidence of breeding. Maxima at non-tabulated waters included 50 at Coleshill STW on January 8th, 40 at Abbots Salford on 11th, a record 50 at Farnborough Park on 23rd, 20 at Lighthorne Quarry on February 7th, 35 on the River Itchen at Knightcote on 25th, 52 at Spernall on March 6th, 30 at Morton Bagot on 8th, and 24 at Charlecote GP on December 30th. Worcs Notable counts made away from the tabulated sites were of 130 at Grafton Reservoir on February 25th, 80 at Longdon Marsh on December 11th and 226 at Clifton Pits on 20th. Small numbers also observed at Birtsmorton Pools, Ryall Pits and Strensham Lagoons during the winter months. Staffs Two breeding records this year, the first was a female with six ducklings at Tittesworth on June 3rd while the second was of a female and two ducklings on July 2nd at Doxey. A second pair also attempted at Doxey but failed. Maximum untabulated counts were 210 at Byrkley Park in November and December, 147 at Norbury Park on December 17th, 70 at Hatton Bogs on January 1st and 50 at Whitemoor Haye on January 10th. W Mid Birds were also noted elsewhere, including a high of 14 at Sheepwash UP on January 1st, plus small numbers at Balsall Common, Clayhanger, Dartmouth Park, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Olton Mere, Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) and Stubbers Green.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Common resident and very common winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 143 250 150 100 75 60 330 475 600 320 500 750 Brandon 54 54 43 26 52 80 144 270 150 121 101 76 Coombe Abbey 297 301 170––––––––– Coton/Lea Marston ––––55581426069586378 Draycote 300 82 170 61 68 125 265 405 510 152 215 150 Earlswood – – 45 46 – 205 180 – 142 – 105 60 Kingsbury WP (north) – 77 60 30 – 45 140 162 140 58 57 37 Ladywalk 177 248 66 34 – – – 57 200 75 87 90 Lower Radbourn 80–––––––53162180160 Salford Priors GP 150 200 85 51 52 85 120 230 180 400 155 105 Shustoke 100 73 67 62 49 – 146 159 157 152 159 135 Bittell Reservoir 105 73 40 26 51 44 147 64 127 162 206 216 Bredonʼs Hardwick 143 82 55 38 47 18 31 70 19 47 60 150 Grimley New Workings 56 32 36 28 27 38 38 45 219 140 60 72 Gwen Finch Wetland 22 11 9 5 11 14 10 9 12 12 6 10 Kinsham Lake 25 21 16 10 15 34 28 102 12 33 36 38 Pirton Pool 43114152632296115666

27 JFMAMJ JASOND Upton Warren 50 25 25 50 130 155 258 24 274 126 82 50 Westwood Pool 102 3 16 10 14 100 188 72 35 110 71 48 Aqualate 32 38 7 30 33 84 177 31 79 7 13 57 Belvide 180 – 61 40 32 77 244 433 270 410 303 223 Blithfield 50 115 80 50 – – 580 400 200 420 800 749 Brookleys Lake 368 148 68 14 – – 116 420 220 356 350 420 Chasewater 175 211 124 – 31 40 171 314 31 79 38 130 Copmere 354–510831803554603521 Doxey 233 126 110 59 91 191 198 125 423 307 212 385 Greenway Bank CP – 20 – – – 60 – – – 100 – – Tittesworth ––––––40120–131–134 Fens Pools 343122463771225439131253 Marsh Lane NR 120 30 16 20 25 60 76 134 108 104 98 82 Sandwell Valley 90 12 5 28 36 14 96––3080 Saltwells LNR 27 33 30 26 10 38 62 54 54 45 9 81 WeBS 2005 4208 2694 2274 1522 1355 2448 3379 3761 3568 3881 3746 3521 WeBS 2006 3789 2996 1919 1778 1605 2386 2700 3996 4191 4219 3788 3344

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks An excellent breeding season was evident, with the larger brood counts consisting of 15 at Brandon, 19 at Draycote, five each at Earlswood Lakes, Morton Bagot and Napton Res, 22 at Salford Priors GP, and seven at Shustoke. The high autumn counts at Abbots Salford were again partly as a result of the release of captive-bred birds for shooting. Maxima of 70 or more at non-tabulated waters included: 125 at Alvecote on January 4th, 74 at Napton Res on July 23rd, 115 at Stoneton Moat on August 10th, 72 at Newbold Comyn on 18th, 135 at Middleton Hall Pool on 21st, 100 on floodwater at Leamington Hastings on October 12th, 75 at Wormleighton Res on November 9th, 70 at Chesterton on December 1st, 70 at Compton Verney on 6th, 130 at Hodnell on 26th and 77 at Edstone on 30th. Worcs A very common breeding species at many localities throughout the county. Breeding census counts along the Dowles Brook revealed five nesting females, three broods being successful, whilst three broods were recorded at Bodenham Arboretum. The only counts received away from the tabulated sites were made at Strensham Lagoons, with 35 on August 6th and 36 on 28th. Staffs Breeding records came from Aqualate (eight ducklings), Baswich (eight duck- lings), Belvide (13 ducklings) and Doxey (33 breeding pairs, at least 75 ducklings). At Drayton Bassett Pits there were seven broods totalling 40 ducklings and a late brood of eight on August 2nd. Elsewhere, Hints Gravel Pit (three ducklings), Kettlebrook Lakes (six broods), Silverdale (11 ducklings), River Sow, Basford (eight ducklings), Tittesworth (several broods) and Wettonmill (11 ducklings). At Doley six pairs were reported as having bred but no reports of number of young. Significant maximum counts away from the tabulated sites were 120 at Hatton Bogs on January 1st, 94 at Croxall on October 23rd and 55 at Whitemoor Haye on January 10th, W Mid Broods were only reported from Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Dunstall Park, Grapes Pool, Marsh Lane NR (at least 77 chicks counted in eleven broods), Rocket Pool, Smestow Valley, Sheepwash UP and Steelpark Way (Wednesfield). Other high counts included 90 at Trittiford Park on January 31st, 83 at The Leasowes on February 2nd, 72 at Sutton Park on 9th, 120 at Walsall Arboretum on March 30th, 64 at Dunstall Park on August 17th, 89 at Mary Stevens Park on October 1st, 108 at Olton Mere on 5th and 76 along Smestow Valley on December 1st. A pair was regularly noted in the water

28 feature in Victoria Square (Birmingham) during late April and early May, with two males present on 17th.

2005 Addendum Warks There were 300 at Coombe Abbey on August 22nd.

Northern Pintail Anas acuta Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant, rare in summer.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote –21–––––12––1 Brandon 211–1–––2245 Coombe Abbey 211––––––––– Draycote 54––––––4193 Dosthill/Kingsbury 14–––––2911– Ladywalk 25––––––1211 The Salfords 1–21––––22–1 Aqualate ––––––––5–14 Belvide 2221–––15–39 Blithfield 92033–––32013179

Warks A better year, with particularly good numbers recorded in mid September including maxima of nine at Kingsbury on 14th and 12 at Alvecote on 16th. There were also five at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on September 15th. The only other records from non- tabulated sites involved a female at Hodnell Pool on February 8th and a female at Charlecote GP on November 28th-29th. Two late spring records were of a female at Salford Priors GP on April 23rd and a male at Brandon on May 21st. Worcs A pair was observed at Lickmore Wetland during May and June, but no young were located. During the first winter period a small village pond at held one or two pairs between January 2nd-February 26th, a drake remaining here until March 27th and a female was also observed on April 3rd. A drake was at Westwood Pool on January 23rd, then a pair on 26th, Grimley New Workings held a drake between February 4th-12th, one was at Bittell Reservoir on 20th, three drakes at Lower Moor on March 7th, two drakes and a female at Grimley New Workings on 12th and 13th and three at Bredon’s Hardwick on 15th. The first autumn bird appeared at Westwood Pool on September 8th and hereafter two drakes were at Grimley Old Workings on 17th, one at Bittell Reservoir from 29th- October 11th and at Clifton Pits, three were noted on October 8th, two on 14th and 21st, one on 22nd, two on November 26th, five on December 2nd and two on 9th and 26th. Two females were at Grimley New Workings on October 19th, one at Kinsham Lake on November 2nd, Lower Moor held one on 17th, six on 26th, 14 on 27th, whilst one was at Westwood Pool on 29th. Good numbers were observed on the floodwaters at Longdon Marsh during the second winter period, with 70+ on November 30th, 50 on December 11th and 52 on 31st and at Bredon’s Hardwick 14 present on December 9th, preceded four on 16th, 15 on 17th and 30th and 12 on 31st. Floodwater at Kempsey Lower Ham held five on December 11th, then eight on 12th and three were seen at Lower Moor on 30th. Staffs A fall in numbers is suggested from the counts at the two main sites, Belvide and Blithfield, with the peak count of 20 on September 18th at Blithfield being well below that of the 2005 period. The last date for the first part of the year was April 30th when one was present at Blithfield and the species was not noted again until August 30th at Belvide. Also noted in small numbers at Barton GP, Chasewater (six on January 24th), Copmere, Croxall,

29 Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, Little Stoke, Radford Bank, Tittesworth, Westport and White - moor Haye. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, single drakes were present on January 13th and April 3rd, with two on September 15th. One was also at nearby Cornets End on January 22nd.

Garganey Anas querquedula Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, but rarely breeding. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: April 2nd (63) to October 3rd (62). 8-year average: March 26th (–7 days) to October 19th (+16 days) First noted at Pype Hayes Pool on the early date of March 17th. Apart from a bird that lingered at Lower Bittell Reservoir to the end of the year, the last was a late bird at Fisher’s Mill GP on November 5th. Warks Spring passage opened with a pair at Brandon on March 24th. No more were reported until a male stayed at Draycote from May 8th-13th, with two males on 10th one of which moved to Brandon later in the day, where a male was also present on 14th-15th and 18th. A male which went into eclipse plumage was present at Kingsbury from May 26th-June 10th. On return passage Brandon hosted a singleton on July 8th-9th, and an eclipse male from August 13th-17th. In the Tame Valley there were singles at Middleton Hall Pool on August 7th, and Fisher’s Mill GP on 21st, 30th and September 29th. An eclipse male was a good find at Seeswood Pool on August 27th, while there was a bird at Alvecote on September 15th and two on 16th. A late female Garganey, Draycote, Steve Seal at Ladywalk on October 3rd- 4th was surpassed by a male at Fisher’s Mill GP on November 5th MJI, the latest county report on record. Worcs Only drakes were encountered during spring passage, with one at Upton Warren on May 7th, one at Lower Moor on 15th, Westwood Pool held one on the 31st, then two on June 7th and one was at Grimley New Workings on 18th. During the autumn, a juvenile was at Gwen Finch Wetland on August 13th and 14th, whilst at Grimley New Workings a immature drake on 24th, preceded an adult female, which was present from 26th-28th. Finally an immature drake was discovered at Lower Bittell Reservoir on September 5th and remained there throughout the second winter period. Staffs Spring passage started on March 31st when a drake was at Belvide, followed by a pair at Blithfield on April 10th, these staying until the 18th. Single males were seen at Whitemoor Haye on April 29th and at Westport on May 1st, and Croxall reported three birds on the 4th and two pairs on the 5th. At Belvide two males were present on May 5th,

30 and thereafter single males were noted between May 13th and 18th and again between June 5th and 11th. Other spring passage birds included two at Forest Farm (Anslow) on May 8th; singles at Branston GP between 8th and 13th; a male at Chasewater on the 9th and single males at Barton GP, Doxey and Whitemoor Haye on the 14th. A female was at Handsacre Flash from May 26th-27th and a pair at Branston GP on June 11th. In the latter part of the summer there was a regular showing at both Belvide and Blithfield: the former site held an adult and juvenile on August 9th and up to three birds were noted until September 6th. At Blithfield a single was first noted on July 22nd and the species was probably continually present well into October with eight birds noted between August 10th and 22nd, the final sighting being of a single on October 26th. Away from these two sites a female was at Gailey on July 12th, a drake at Doxey on July 22nd, a single at Chasewater between August 10th and 30th and a single at Aqualate on August 19th. W Mid A drake remained at Pype Hayes Pool from March 17th-21st at least, another was at Clayhanger on May 27th, with two drakes and a female the next day, and a drake was at Dunstall Park on June 8th – the first record. In Sandwell Valley, singles were present on June 10th, August 16th and from September 26th to October 4th.

Shoveler Anas clypeata Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare and decreasing breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 4 – 111––––12101– Brandon 30 47 78 15 4 5 6 35 55 66 62 79 Coton/Lea Marston 182 320 1022––3–4365 Draycote 234–––––91310– Kingsbury area 136 400 107 55 14 15 5 37 62 68 90 108 Ladywalk 70 127 108 48 –––755514451 Salford Priors GP ––18–2382116514 Shustoke –26–––––265486 Bittell Reservoir 161710–––1110112243 Grimley New Workings 30 25 4361–––52–1 Gwen Finch Wetland 2 2 127–––177121 Upton Warren 20 22 32 28 2 3 1 12 36 64 20 24 Westwood Pool 68 102 504101218103023 Aqualate 31 – – 18 21–215031416 Belvide 24 13 8 12 9 9 10 67 77 47 16 34 Blithfield 416156–1225821204021 Chasewater 4 1042–––18738 Doxey 35314035222845513645 Drayton Bassett Pits – – –10612142412335069 Dartmouth Park 1027–––––942721 Dunstall Park –––––214272– Fens Pools 123––––––212 Marsh Lane NR 54 71 72 32 1 2 4 16 31 61 38 17 Sandwell Valley 16 20 4892211234452423 WeBS 2005 237 250 260 48 17 12 26 172 548 560 383 149 WeBS 2006 208 155 185 103 8 22 1 72 221 356 245 251

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks A brood of five on the Staffs side of Fisher’s Mill GP on May 8th could possibly have been hatched in Warwickshire. The count of 400 at Kingsbury on February 11th BLK during a cold snap, was a county record. 320 of these formed a compact flock

31 which moved between Lea Marston Pool and Bodymoor Heath Water. Away from tabulated sites Alvecote could only manage a peak of 12 in January-February, while the autumn flock at Coombe Abbey again remained uncounted. At smaller waters, there were up to three in Charlecote Park in March, up to five at Earlswood Lakes and four at Seeswood Pool in September, with six on floodwater at Leamington Hastings on October 12th. One or two were also noted at Charlecote GP, Napton Res, Newfield Pool and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Pairs were present during the breeding season at Kinsham Lake and Upton Warren, but there was no evidence of breeding taking place. Away from the tabulated localities, counts during the first winter period comprised four at both Kinsham Lake and Pirton Pool on January 15th, 14 at Holt Fishing Pools on February 22nd, three at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 5th and 15 at Lower Moor on 7th. Spring sightings included 16 at Ryall Pits on March 26th, 24 at Bury End Flash on April 4th and Lower Moor held eight on 9th and 15th, plus a drake on May 14th. During the second winter period, Bredon’s Hardwick held seven on October 8th, four on December 16th and 11 on 17th, Pirton Pool attracted 20 on November 10th, eight were at Hewell Grange on 11th and at Lower Moor, 14 and 15 were noted on 28th and December 17th respectively. Staffs Breeding was reported at Drayton Bassett where a female and five young were present on May 17th. In addition, three pairs attempted at Doxey but all failed at the egg stage as a result of flooding. Maximum counts for the late summer flocks seem substantially down from the previous year with only Aqualate reporting a three-figure count – of 150 on September 14th. Counts from Blithfield, which has a previous five-year average maxima of 184, totalled less than one-third of this number, suggesting either a poorer year for the species, or partial coverage. Also reported from a further 27 sites with the largest count being 50 birds at Dosthill Pits on March 21st. W Mid Although birds were noted during the breeding season, there was no indication of any nesting. Also present at Sheepwash UP from January until May, with a maximum of eight noted. A pair was at Stubbers Green on January 18th. At Olton Mere, a pair was present from February 15th until April 7th at least, with totals of four birds on March 1st, seven on 23rd and five on 27th. Two were at Fens Pools on February 18th, with singles at Netherton Reservoir on March 22nd and November 2nd, and two at Sutton Park on October 8th and Sheepwash UP on December 30th.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Scarce visitor, with most records probably of feral origin. Warks A good year, with reports of three at Ladywalk on September 13th per SLC, a female at Alvecote from 14th-16th AAr, RLS et al, three (a female and two eclipse males) at Brandon on 29th JMR et al, and four (three males and a female) at Draycote on November 6th RBR et al. Worcs The only record for the year came from Pirton Pool, where a pair was present on November 10th PRh. Staffs Birds seen include one at Branston Water Park on January 1st, a male throughout January at Ford Green, one at Central Forest Park (Hanley) on June 17th, one at Forebridge on July 16th, a female at Tixall on September 13th, one at Brookleys Lake on December 9th, two males at Tittesworth on the same date and a drake at Chasewater on 26th. W Mid Two females were at Marsh Lane NR on August 8th – the third record for the site GPR.

32 Common Pochard Aythya ferina Common winter visitor. Scarce and declining breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 50 71 779––3–15293072 Brandon 51 35 223–3556182038 Coombe Abbey 47 436––––––––– Coton/Lea Marston 300 1000 145––229472836205251 Draycote 455031–––––1181013 Hodnell 10––1–––––81820 Kingsbury area 27 30 1511591532413 Salford Priors GP 3274––––2492020 Shustoke 5181191––––1042149250 Bittell Reservoir 514525–––––1102442 Bredonʼs Hardwick 18 12 122–––––33039 Grimley New Workings 14 8 18–––––––632 Kinsham Lake 341054421112431 Pirton Pool 41015–––1––––– Upton Warren 1612173 2133152429 Westwood Pool 44 42 4041211825354639 Aqualate 8 18 31 10 ––969968 Belvide 736546–3915275814791117 Blithfield 5012053–––222011169076 Chasewater 172 158 825––326175650 Copmere 17 34 18–––––1––6 Croxall GP 144–2––––––1255– Doxey 66122––––73–– Drayton Bassett Pits––––1–––8105– Tittesworth 2222122––––34309 Westport 20308–––––––1014 Dartmouth Park 544––––––132 Fens Pools 532––––2–––– Marsh Lane NR 42 50 353––7–10172940 Sandwell Valley 25 21 15331837425261 Sheepwash UP 32 35 182–––––23035 Sutton Park –86––––––2–– Trittiford Park 17166––––––––– WeBS 2005 932 958 425 43 4 10 30 42 92 254 407 437 WeBS 2006 608 607 477 36 11 11 37 39 161 325 578 600

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks The count of 1000 at Lea Marston on February 11th during a cold snap was the largest county flock for five years. Away from the main waters, there were counts of 31 at Alvecote on February 8th, 14 on the River Avon at Bidford on March 1st, and 25 at Edstone on 15th. Up to ten were also recorded from: Bermuda, Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Earlswood, Farnborough Park, Ladywalk, Lawford Heath GP, Lighthorne Pools, Napton Res, Newbold Comyn, Packington, Ryton Pools CP, Seeswood Pool and Sweet Knowle. Worcs Two pairs breed successfully at Kinsham Lake and a pair was observed at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 29th. During the first winter period, and away from the tabulated sites, Bishampton Vale Pool held 61 on January 19th, 37 on February 12th and 14 on March 28th, whilst 19 were at Throckmorton Lagoons on February 10th and 15 at Lower Moor on Marsh 4th. A good July record was of seven at Grimley Old Workings on 20th. Second winter period sightings were of five at Arrow Valley Lake on October 8th, three at

33 Hewell Grange on November 11th and 18 at Throckmorton Lagoons on December 2nd. Staffs No reports of breeding were received in 2006 but numbers for the early part of the year seemed higher at Chasewater and Croxall and lower at Belvide and Blithfield. There was no marked change in the latter part of the year with the Belvide maxima occurring on October 30th. W Mid At Olton Mere, a “notable” 16 birds were present on March 1st, with six on December 21st. Other sightings involved singles at Whitley on January 16th, on May 3rd and Netherton Reservoir on October 14th.

Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris Rare vagrant (7/10). Warks A female was well-watched at Napton Res from February 19th-April 5th JJB et al. This was presumably the bird that had been seen there at the end of December 2005, but where it had been in the meantime is a mystery.

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca Scarce winter visitor, some probably being escapees or of feral origin (9/10). Warks A male was at Brandon on October 10th MDo et al, only the second record for the reserve and the first in the county for five years. Worcs The escaped drake present in the county since 2003 was observed on the canal at Tallow Hill, Worcester on January 24th, 27th and February 10th, plus at Grimley New Workings on 12th. Staffs An eclipse drake lingered at Blithfield from August 12th until September 8th many observers, whereas a juvenile spent just one day at Chasewater on September 16th GEv before moving on. An escaped drake with a green ring visited Belvide on September 4th SNu and was later relocated in Lancashire.

Ferruginous Duck X Baerʼs Pochard? Worcs A particularly striking drake Ferruginous-type hybrid was at Throckmorton Lagoons between December 9th-12th. Its structure was perfect for Ferruginous, but was marginally larger than a drake Tufted Duck and its colouration was not dissimilar to a drake Baer’s Pochard Aythya baeri, to which its other parentage was considered likely.

Common Pochard X Ferruginous Duck Staffs A bird was present at Belvide on October 23rd-24th.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Common winter visitor and frequent breeding resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 10 23 24 53 36 2 23 45 65 51 21 20 Brandon 40 50 58 48 32 31 23 13 9 25 26 44 Compton Verney 2225––––––––3836 Coombe Abbey 55 47 23––––––––– Coton/Lea Marston 800 – 830 – 76 121 1150 1114 736 850 1186 1202 Dosthill/Kingsbury 263 145 120 93 77 155 334 106 105 87 118 115 Draycote 850 500 450 115 70 81 225 377 700 930 820 500 Hodnell 80 65 – 307––––45100110 Ladywalk 58 78 80 16–––936417220 Napton Res 93 51 47 25 5 10 7 10 12 16 53 47

34 JFMAMJ JASOND Salford Priors GP 33 41 54 65 56 36 29 42 47 81 59 43 Shustoke 86 156 87 25 19 – 6 62 160 314 221 175 Bittell Reservoir 26 45 31 27 7 10 77 78 95 68 22 39 Bredonʼs Hardwick 58 36 23 12 1032–12239109 Grimley New Workings 44 75 68 51 35 42 47 65 3 21 90 108 Gwen Finch Wetland 413344––2–12 Kinsham Lake 6 14 25 34 32 32 21 24 7 21 20 24 Pirton Pool 10 11 34 29 31 30 25 47 38 3 6 18 Upton Warren 9 17 25 60 48 27 13 12 20 11 10 36 Westwood Pool 40 32 67 60 8 14 34 26 50 17 72 74 Alrewas – 36 – – 40 13 – 12 – 20 9 – Aqualate 97 113 260 118 24 56 99 152 311 294 195 173 Belvide 70 103 125 83 81 76 147 167 152 – 55 82 Blithfield 20 134 300 60 – 1 245 129 100 53 64 68 Brookleys Lake 56 – 48 36 – 10 10 73 109 76 167 90 Chasewater 583 395 289 117 13 22 165 402 1067 997 420 406 Coldmeece Pools 60 60 46 19 – 24 9 22–––– Copmere 51 76 55 62 4 19 40 25 141 90 64 96 Croxall 93 – – 30 – – 75 – – 81 50 – Doxey 16 19 23 29 33 17 4 9 10 16 27 22 Drayton Bassett Pits–––50–3010016–––– Elford Gravel Pits 16332013––––––94 Silverdale Colliery 12 21 22 22 20 – – 12 – 30 7 21 Tittesworth 70 36 43 20 10 2 5 12 38 92 100 84 Westport 20202430––22–––23 Whitemoor Haye 40––60–1710–––20– Dartmouth Park 57 38 17 22 14 9 12 7 19 27 31 18 Fens Pools 7159322911183225398183103 Marsh Lane NR 31 36 62 61 43 33 45 65 11 10 35 17 Netherton Reservoir2721––34161331 Olton Mere 82–2–2––612–20 Sandwell Valley 62 50 45 42 26 35 31 40 25 38 53 29 Sutton Park –50502166–––44–– WeBS 2005 2034 1918 1733 1343 759 742 1254 1501 1647 1571 1443 1408 WeBS 2006 2034 2063 1897 1193 612 746 1710 1918 2583 2691 1880 2058 Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Broods were noted at: Abbots Salford (three), Brandon (five-six), Charlecote GP (two), Coton, Draycote (three), Fisher’s Mill GP (three), Kingsbury (seven), Ladywalk, Park, Napton Res (three), Salford Priors GP (16), Stoneton Moat, Sweet Knowle and Wimpstone. Counts from untabulated waters included 51 at Alvecote and 22 at Charlecote GP in January, 17 on the River Avon at Bidford and 26 at Sweet Knowle in March, 28 at Lawford Heath GP in April, 25 at Wimpstone in June and 29 at Seeswood Pool in September. Counts of 10-15 were also noted at Brownsover Res, Farnborough Park, Lighthorne Pools, Lower Radbourn, Ryton Pools CP and Whittleford Park. Worcs Successful breeding pairs were recorded at Birtsmorton Pools, Grimley Old and New Workings, Kinsham Lake (five), Lower Moor (three), Pirton Pool, Ryall Pits (two), Strensham Lagoons (one), Throckmorton Lagoons (three), Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Pairs also observed during the breeding season at Holt Fishing Pools, Stoke Bliss and Stonyford Pool (two). Away from the tabulated localities, 40 were at Bevere Lock on February 11th eight at Hewell Grange on April 12th, 44 at Bishampton Vale Pool on 16th and 37 at Bevere Lock and 15 at Holt Pools on November 9th. Staffs Breeding birds noted at Aqualate, Belvide (broods of 11, 11, 8, 7, 6, 4, 1) Blithfield, Brookleys Lake (broods of 8, 8, 7, 7, 6, 5, 5), Byrkley Park, Chasewater, Cold -

35 meece Pools, Doxey (four pairs, three failed, one duckling), Drayton Bassett, Dunstall, Gailey and at Hints GP. Numbers of birds at Chasewater, recently the premier site for the species in the county, reached 1067 on September 10th and confirmed at least a good year for the species. The leucistic female from last year returned to Copmere on March 5th. W Mid Birds bred at Marsh Lane NR (six broods with a minimum of 39 ducklings) and Sheepwash UP. Also present in the breeding season at Clayhanger, Park Lime Pits and Walsall Arboretum. Small numbers also noted at Balsall Common, Blythe Valley CP, Cannon Hill Park, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Titford Pools, Trittiford Park, Smestow Valley and Warrens Hall. A drake bearing a red nasal saddle at Marsh Lane NR on March 31st and again from April 2nd-4th had been marked at São Jacinto Dunes NR, Portugal, on November 20th 2005 and was still present there on March 11th 2006.

Common Pochard X Tufted Duck Warks The usual male was back at Brandon for its seventh consecutive year, with records on February 9th and 15th-16th, from April 12th-18th, and from September 8th-October 8th. Staffs A male hybrid was present at Copmere from Feb- ruary 2nd-March 5th. Another appeared at Chasewater from September 16th-24th.

Greater Scaup Aythya marila Uncommon winter visitor and Common Pochard X Tufted Duck, Brandon, passage migrant. Rare in Steve Valentine summer. Warks An unusual site for this species was an effluent channel at Hartshill STW, where a male was present from at least January 13th-February 3rd. Draycote also had a male during this period, with reports on almost identical dates during January 11th-February 3rd. A first-winter male at Brandon on February 2nd relocated to Draycote next day where it joined the adult. The final reports of the winter involved single males at Kingsbury and then Coton on March 11th and Draycote on April 12th. The first autumn record involved a female or immature bird at Dosthill on September 27th, followed by a female at Draycote on October 1st. Two males were at Draycote on October 26th, with single birds on November 16th, December 15th and two on 18th. Finally, a first-winter male was at Shustoke from November 11th-12th. Worcs Kinsham Lake held a drake from February 1st-12th, then the same individual reappeared at Kinsham on 19th, 25th-28th and March 3rd. A juvenile visited Gwen Finch Wetland on September 14th. Staffs During January two birds, reported as immatures, were at Blithfield from the start of the year until the 21st with a pair (possibly the maturing birds) noted there between the 14th through to April 5th being joined by another male from February 27th. Two immature males at Belvide on January 11th were followed by an adult and immature male at Chasewater on the 14th and these were regularly noted until March 27th. At Croxall two

36 birds were present on January 28th. Alrewas GP held two males, an adult and a first winter between February 5th and March 19th. Gailey held a single female bird on February 5th and this or another individual was noted regularly until April 4th with a single male present on April 15th. The species was not seen again until August 14th when a male was at Belvide, staying until the 21st. A single female was at Blithfield between November 4th and 18th, with two present on December 2nd, a single female remaining until the 4th and a male or immature there on December 16th. At Chasewater a first-winter male bird was noted on November 26th and reported occasionally until December 23rd. W Mid In Sandwell Valley, a female was reported on October 8th and a drake and two females on November 2nd.

Greater Scaup X Tufted Duck Staffs A hybrid bird was present at Croxall NR on January 28th.

Lesser Scaup, Grimley, Andy Warr

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis Very rare vagrant (1/10). Worcs A first-winter drake, was discovered with Tufted Ducks on the River Severn at Bevere Lock, Grimley on February 11th BRS et al. It was still at the lock and also moved to Grimley New Working the following day, then commuted between here and the river up until the 14th. On the 15th, it was relocated at Westwood Pool WDu et al, remained here until 19th and then was seen again at Westwood from March 4th-7th. This was the first county and fourth regional record. Staffs It has taken nearly twenty years since the first ever UK record at Chasewater in 1987, for a second bird to visit Staffordshire, and then a third! A drake spent just one day

37 at Tittesworth on July 1st PBa et al as did a female at Blithfield on November 3rd GJM, RCB, MPR. These were also the fifth and sixth regional records.

2005 Corrigendum Warks The male at Kingsbury on May 21st was initially discovered by JHa, and first identified by JKLA.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis Rare winter visitor with occasional summer records (8/10). Worcs A second-calendar year drake at Grimley New Workings from May 4th-6th OWo et al visited both Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire before returning to Grimley for another three days, from June 15th-17th BRS et al. Staffs An immature male at Branston GPs on January 19th spent most of the winter and spring there and occasionally at Branston Water Park, moulting into summer plumage by the time it was last seen on May 8th many observers.

Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor, principally in spring, late-summer and autumn. Warks Fewer reports came from Draycote this year, with most of these in spring and early summer. These consisted of a female on March 11th, four (including one male) on April 22nd, a male on 25th, single females on 30th and May 6th-7th, and five males on June 27th. Shustoke did well, with a party of eight (including two males) on April 22nd, followed by a male from August 2nd-6th, four males on 26th and a final male here on September 9th. Subsequently there were two immatures at Alvecote on September 16th and one on 17th, with a male at Draycote on October 1st. Worcs A drake visited three localities over a period of eight days. Arriving at Upper Bittell Reservoir on June 27th, he departed there the next day, only to be relocated on the Moors Pool, at Upton Warren and remained until 30th. He was reported at both Upton Warren and Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 1st and again Common Scoters, Shustoke, Steve Seal at Upton Warren on 2nd, then finally frequented Westwood Pool on 3rd. A second bird was found at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 22nd and Trimpley Reservoir held a drake on December 18th. Staffs Spring migration was first noted on March 26th when a male was present at Chasewater. Belvide held a male on April 4th and nearby Gailey was visited by a male on April 9th, this staying until the 16th when a group of six males briefly stopped at Blithfield. Blithfield also hosted a small party of four males and a female on April 22nd and a single

38 male on the 30th whilst Aqualate attracted a single on April 29th, and a pair was present at Belvide between May 7th and 14th. June records were represented by a group of three males which called at Belvide on the 2nd; 11 (five males and six females) at Tittesworth on the 17th; and on the 24th a group of three males were at Blithfield and a single male was at Chasewater. Later in the summer four birds (two males and two females) were at Belvide on August 5th, when two males were also present at Gailey these remaining until the 8th. Dosthill held two males and a female/immature on August 7th, and at Blithfield a female or immature was noted on the 13th, and drakes were at Chasewater on the 17th and at Blithfield on the 26th. Two males and two female/immatures were at Blithfield on September 14th. In the north of the county a bird was at Westport on October 11th and the following day a group of four females called at Belvide. Blithfield again hosted a single bird on October 28th and finally two females were at this site on November 12th. W Mid Eleven drakes were at Bartley Reservoir on June 24th TMH.

Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Fairly common winter visitor. Rare in summer.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 334–––––––44 Coton/Lea Marston 53––4––––124 Dosthill/Kingsbury 31 37 34411–––61922 Draycote 13078817–––2165770 Westwood Pool 15 15 16––––––135 Aqualate 5744–––––42– Barton GP –25–––––––312– Belvide 848492845––––226670 Blithfield 6276018–––––141414 Chasewater 128 131 124 34 –––––47191 Copmere 5545–––––––5 Croxall GP 10 40 – 14 ––––––3– Drayton Bassett Pits1447254––––––1016 Gailey –5–1––22–––14 Westport 7476––––––51 Whitemoor Haye 1331141––––––918 Bartley Reservoir –78–––––––510 Sandwell Valley 3471–––––112 WeBS 2005 2242572524410031560152 WeBS 2006 25529827095111313107180

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks There were more out-of-season reports than usual, with two pairs at Coton from May 2nd-13th, the long-staying (since 2002) crippled male remaining at Kingsbury until June 13th, and two “brownheads” at Draycote from August 12th-22nd at least, with one staying into September. A welcome slight recovery in wintering numbers was evident in both the main localities, with the count of 130 at Draycote being the highest there since December 2001 when 180 were present. Away from the main sites one or two were also seen on various dates in the north at Alvecote, Ladywalk and Shustoke, while a female at Packington Great Pool on February 4th was more unusual. Records from further south included an adult male at Abbots Salford Pool from January 2nd-12th and a first-winter male there on 19th-20th. A party of four at Ufton Fields on October 14th were at an unusual location for this species, and there were single immatures at Hodnell Pool on

39 November 21st and Salford Priors GP on December 3rd (the first site record), with a female at Compton Verney on December 27th. Worcs All reports, apart from at Westwood Pool, see tabulated sites, came during the second winter period. Birds were resident at Grimley New Workings between October 30th-December 31st, with maximum counts of three from November 18th-December 26th, four on 27th, 28th and 30th and five on 29th. Lower Bittell Reservoir held two on November 4th, one on 19th and December 17th, two on 18th and 19th and one on 24th. Elsewhere a female was at Bredon’s Hardwick from November 4th-20th, a drake at Upton Warren on November 5th, a female at Gwen Finch Wetland on 7th and a drake at Retreat Farm Pool on 27th and 29th. Staffs The “about average” numbers noted towards the end of 2005 continued into the first period of 2006 with numbers at Belvide and Chasewater, the two main sites for the species, showing remarkable consis- tency from January to March, suggesting little movement of birds. Birds lingered in the county into May with the last record being of a male at Belvide on May 11th. Most unusually, two birds summered at Gailey, being first reported Goldeneye, Westport, Dave Kelsall on July 11th and staying until August 28th. The first records for the second winter period were two at Belvide on October 11th and numbers in this period appear somewhat reduced from 2005 and earlier years with the highest Chasewater count (91 on December 31st) being some way below the previous- five-year-average of 125. Also recorded from a further eight untabulated sites within the county, 10 at Dosthill in March being the only double-figure count. W Mid Singles were present at Fens Pools in January, November and December. Two were at Sutton Park on February 4th, four at Stubbers Green on November 10th and one at Sheepwash UP from December 10th until the end of the year.

Smew Mergellus albellus Uncommon winter visitor. Very rare in summer. Warks Small numbers continued to winter in the Warwickshire section of the Middle Tame Valley, with favoured waters being Fisher’s Mill GP, Dosthill Lake and both Cliff and Canal Pools in Kingsbury Water Park. After a male was at Coton from January 1st-8th with possibly the same at Kingsbury also on 8th, there were many reports of up to three males and a female during the period January 27th-March 22nd with the final female at Kingsbury on 29th. The best counts were of seven on Canal Pool on March 3rd and five at Dosthill on 4th, both counts including the three males. In addition, the male present at Draycote in December 2005 remained there until February 7th. The only report at the end of the year concerned two males at Fisher’s Mill GP on December 18th. Staffs The male seen on the final day of 2005 at Drayton Bassett was present also on January 1st and remained until the 13th. A male at Chasewater also on New Years Day,

40 remained in the area at least until March 2nd. A small influx was noted in mid January, starting with a redhead at Belvide on the 14th, two males at Croxall on the 15th-19th and a redhead at Chasewater on the 16th. A female at Blithfield was first seen on January 20th and this, or other birds, were also reported on March 3rd and 24th. Two drakes and a redhead were at Whitemoor Haye on January 22nd being noted there until February 9th with two males also present on the 15th. Drayton Bassett again held birds from January 30th with four (including three males) noted and reports were regularly received of two males and two redheads between February 10th and March 15th when three males were again present. The final report from this site was of a female on March 20th and the last birds of the first winter period were on March 21st when two males were at Dosthill and on the 24th when a single redhead visited Blithfield. The first bird of the latter period was at Blithfield on November 4th but the species was not again noted until December 1st when a bird was a Croxall (staying until the end of the year) and a female at Drayton Bassett, a site which held a first-winter male on the 8th to the 10th and two drakes on the 18th-19th, one of these remaining until the 26th. Two males and a redhead were at Barton on the 17th and Chasewater held one drake from December 23rd until the end of the year. W Mid A redhead was at Stubbers Green from December 29th-31st PJ.

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Probably bred in Staffs in 1994. Warks The three acceptable records were all from Draycote during autumn, and involved a first-winter male on October 25th JJB, a female on November 1st RCM and an adult male on November 16th JJB et al. Worcs A redhead spent the day on the windsurfing lake at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 26th AWa et al. Staffs A first-year male and female/immature were seen at Blithfield on April 19th GJM, with another female/immature on October 31st-November 3rd GJM et al. A moulting male at Belvide on November 27th SNu was followed by a female at Gailey from December 8th-16th SAR. W Mid One was seen at Bartley Reservoir on November 1st TMH.

Goosander Mergus merganser Fairly common winter visitor. Scarce in summer and rare breeding bird in Staffs and Worcs since 1990.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alvecote 2413161––––––810 Draycote 3232301––––––1720 Earlswood 3 1481––––––12 Ladywalk 17 24 24 10 –––––1814 Shustoke –8221––––153 Wormleighton Res 6651–––––––2 Bittell Reservoir 313131–––––––222 Barton GP –19–––––––33– Belvide 125823––1–448 Blithfield 7095376––124293434 Chasewater 7 12 242––––––325 Copmere 7 3391–––––15240 Doxey 13241742–––––515 Knypersley 194196–––––––– River Sow, Baswich21102––––––22

41 JFMAMJ JASOND Tittesworth 125192––––102611 Dartmouth Park 2–1–––––––920 Sandwell Valley 52 49 232–––––22121 Sheepwash UP 5 6 18 17–––––2213 WeBS 2005 23721563103000031134 WeBS 2006 74 77 100 23 30 5 9 17 7 24 30 40 WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield, a stronghold for this species. Warks The Ladywalk birds regularly fished along the River Tame in the Coleshill area. Other non-tabulated sites to have fairly regular records (of up to four) during the winter months included Brandon, Coombe Abbey, Coton, Kingsbury and Napton Res. More isolated sightings included four at Chesterton on January 6th, singles at Compton Verney on 7th and 20th, and Astley Pool on 26th, with a pair at Ufton Fields on March 12th and 26th. There was one summer report of a redhead at Brandon on August 30th, while the first autumn birds returned to Napton Res on October 14th and Ladywalk on 15th. Worcs Reasonable numbers recorded during January and February, the majority of sightings coming from the north of the county. Away from Bittell Reservoir, see tabulated sites, the River Severn at Trimpley Reservoir held three on January 8th and 27 on February 5th, Varying numbers visited Kyre Pool between January 12th-March 19th, with a maximum of 18 on February 13th, a redhead was at Bishampton Vale Pool on January 27th and the River Severn at Upper Arley hosted 13 on 29th and 19 on 31st. Eight and 13 were observed on the River Severn at on February 4th and 5th respectively, seven were seen at Hewell Grange on 8th, one at Grimley New Workings on 12th, 17 at Hewell Grange on 14th and one flew over Arrow Valley Golf Course on 19th. March sightings comprised eight and 20 on the River Severn at Trimpley Reservoir on 4th and 5th respectively, five on the River Severn at Upper Arley and two at Upton Warren on 5th, 10 at Hewell Grange on 14th and one at Upton Warren on 25th. The only reports during April came from along the River Severn at Trimpley Reservoir, where six were observed on 5th, two on 14th, 21 on 22nd and a drake on 30th. Three juveniles visited Kinsham Lake on July 16th and one was at Hewell Grange on September 13th, then during the second winter period a redhead was at Grimley New Workings on November 9th, two at Hewell Grange on 13th and Westwood Pool held a redhead on 25th, 29th and December 1st, then five on 9th and a drake on 27th. Other December records were of a pair at Trimpley Reservoir on 2nd, two at Throckmorton Lagoons on 22nd, three at Upton Warren on 30th and a drake at Grimley New Workings on 31st. Staffs Confirmed breeding only on the River Dove at Fauld where broods of eight and of two were noted. Numbers of wintering birds at Blithfield, the main site in the county, appear higher than in the previous year peaking at 95 on February 4th. Other notable first winter period counts came from Copmere where there were 33 on February 4th and from Bednall with 23 on the 9th. Knypersley Reservoir also seems attractive with 41 present on February 21st. Later in the year notable numbers were recorded at Biddulph Grange CP, where 31 were present on November 29th and at Waterhouses with 16 on November 25th, possibly heading to roost at the nearby cement works lake. Also reported from a further 44 untabulated sites. W Mid In January, there were three at Marsh Lane NR on 2nd and a male on 27th, two at Hill Hook LNR on 20th and 27th, two at Titford Pools on 20th, six along the Daw End Branch Canal near Aldridge on 22nd and 19 at The Mere (Norton) on 31st. In February, there were two at Sutton Park on 4th, single birds at Marsh Lane NR on 7th and 25th, two

42 in Goscote Valley on 20th and eight at Woden Road Lake (Wednesbury) from 26th to March 2nd. Also in March, two pairs were at Marsh Lane NR on 21st, with one pair the next day, and three birds were at Stubbers Green and four in Goscote Valley on 29th. Two different birds flew over Smestow Valley on October 24th and one landed briefly at Dunstall Park on December 23rd. Two were at Bartley Reservoir on November 3rd.

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis Fairly common resident of feral origin.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 1–––1––27766 Brandon 1423221–––1– Coton/Lea Marston 38 35 25 11 5 2 10648348 Dosthill/Kingsbury 7 185853232–2– Draycote 11322––6–4–– Salford Priors GP ––35641316231144 Shustoke –––2––288124– Bittell Reservoir 3711161––––––39 Grimley New Workings –1–643–––––– Kinsham Lake –12786458–33 Pirton Pool ––14–3522–1– Upton Warren –– 544––32–– Westwood Pool 247343311321 Aqualate 112766671135131 Belvide 7203417118–3527–8 Blithfield 70 80 31 16 – – 45 45 73 156 101 64 Chasewater 4413835434914 Doxey –––5944211–– Marsh Lane NR ––13571311412– Sandwell Valley 1––232–––122 WeBS 2005 468 191 62 38 27 23 44 79 32 21 25 10 WeBS 2006 18108223629282425482318 Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006. Warks Four broods were reared at Salford Priors GP and one brood on a small pool near . Single pairs were also present in the breeding season at Lower Radbourn, Seeswood Pool and Stoneton Moat, with one or two birds on odd dates in spring and summer at Alvecote, Bedworth Nook, Edstone, Ladywalk and Wimpstone. Worcs Three pairs bred at Kinsham Lake, whilst Pirton Pool held two breeding pairs. A pair also frequented Gwen Finch Wetland from May 21st-July 10th. Away from the tabulated localities, one was at Bredon’s Hardwick on January 15th and February 12th, one at Lower Moor on August 8th and three at Throckmorton Lagoons from October 12th- December 10th. Staffs Confirmed breeding only at Gailey where an adult and two young were seen on September 15th. Paired birds were noted at Aqualate, Chasewater and Doxey (two attempted but failed), with summer birds also present at Alrewas and Drayton Bassett Pits. The autumn count of 156 birds at Blithfield on October 30th was higher than the maxima on 2005 and is not much short of the previous five-year-average, which currently stands at 190 birds, although it suggests that the population continues to fall. Croxall GP and Middleton Lakes also reported small numbers. W Mid Birds bred at Marsh Lane NR for the first time – two broods totalling five ducklings were counted on July 25th. Individuals were noted at Sheepwash UP on January

43 1st, 4th and 29th, February 18th and April 3rd and 6th, with three on July 29th. Singles were also seen at Dartmouth Park on January 12th and June 21st, and Netherton Reservoir on June 16th.

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Uncommon and declining resident on the North Staffs Moors. Staffs Very few records were submitted this year, with breeding confirmed only from Round Knowl Farm – a female and a juvenile. Breeding season records were also received from Baldstones, Black Brook (two), Five Clouds (four), Gib Torr (two), Goldsitch Moss, Gradbach Hill, Gun Hill, Knotbury (two), Middle Hills (one, but 10 recorded in August), Morridge Top, Orchard Common, The Roaches, Swallow Moss and Wolf Edge. The only other site with winter records was Revidge with three.

Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa Common resident. Warks Remains common in areas where birds are released for shooting. There were 25 territories on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot, the same density as in 2005. The largest counts again came from the neighbourhood of the Ragley estate, where there were 125 at Abbots Salford on September 20th and 120 at Salford Priors GP on October 1st. Other counts in the south included up to 40 at Ilmington Downs and 25 at Wormleighton Res during the autumn. The best sized covies in the north involved from eight-12 at Alvecote, Maxstoke, Packington, Sees- wood and Shustoke. Worcs An adult and seven chicks were observed on Holly- bed Common on August 14th and three broods were recorded at Bodenham Arboretum. The only notable count received was of 26 at Throckmorton Tip on November 19th, whilst small parties were noted at Bittell Reservoir, Bredon Hill, Common, Def- ford, Dowles Brook, Holly - Red-legged Partridge, Cannock Chase, bush, Nash End, Shenstone and Dave Kelsall Westwood Park. Staffs A pair bred at Crossplains and pairs in the breeding season were noted at Brancote STW, Denstone Hall Farm, Doley Common (three) and Swynnerton. 22 other sites held birds between May and July. Double-figure counts in January, probably of captive releases, comprised 16 at Whitmore Bent Lane and 10 at Drayton Bassett Pits; in November 25 at Aqualate and 23 at Branston GP and in December 22 at Baggeridge CP while 20 was the highest count during the year at Byrkley Park. W Mid One was seen in the vicinity of Marsh Lane NR on March 28th, with two on April 28th. One was present in Smestow Valley on March 29th. In May, single birds were seen in Sandwell Valley on 2nd and at Chadwick End on 11th. In Coundon Wedge, one or two were noted on July 22nd, August 13th, October 28th, November 11th and December 23rd.

44 Grey Partridge Perdix perdix Fairly common, but rapidly declining resident. Warks Two pairs reared seven young at Birchmoor. Other pairs were present during the breeding season at Alvecote, Billesley, Bramcote Hall, Chessetts Wood, Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Priors Hardwick, Stoneton and Weston-on-Avon. The largest covies involved five at Alvecote, ten at Bishop’s Tachbrook and six at Weston-on-Avon in January, with six at Alvecote in October. Other reports of one or two came from Brandon, Curdworth, Ensors Pool, Hodnell, Ladywalk, Radway, Rushford, Salford Priors GP, Warton, Wishaw and Wroxall. There is still one “large” covey resident on the Talton estate at Crimscote, but it is now absent from the Honington/Idlicote district where three autumn shoots failed to find any in an area where they were once common GM-K. Worcs Six, presumably released birds, were seen near a cage holding captive birds at Lineholt on January 28th. Other sightings comprised two at Kinsham Lake on March 5th, two at Woodrow on 20th and at Shenstone, one was present on April 13th, two on 14th, three on 29th, 30th and May 2nd and two on June 11th. Two pairs were on Bredon Hill and a single bird was noted at Nafford on May 4th, singles were observed at Cofton Richards Farm on 29th and June 5th, plus at on 11th, six probably released birds were at Bricklehampton on August 21st, two on Bredon Hill on 24th and one on North Hill on September 22nd. Staffs

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Berry Hill 001220012030 Cuckoo Bank 356––2––31534630 Whitemoor Haye 1758212820070 Whitmore Bent Lane 19021000000015

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Breeding Pairs (successful) 1 2(1) 4(1) 8(1) 0 2-3(2) The only breeding records came from Calton (one, possibly two pairs bred) and Hoar Cross where a pair with nine chicks was seen on July 25th. Additional breeding season sightings, with never more than two birds present, came from Alrewas, Bednall, Berry Hill, Brown Edge, Chasewater, Cuckoo Bank, Denstone Hall, Ellenhall, Flash, Goldsitch Moss, Ingestre, Leasowes Farm, Ouseley Cross, Rifle Range, Roddige Farm, Tixall Bridge, Whitemoor Haye and Woodhead. Birds were also seen at include Aqualate (one- two from January to March), Lask Edge on February 2nd (four), River Sow Meadows on April 2nd (two), Silverdale Colliery on 11th (two), Apedale CP on August 16th, Colton on 26th (two), Oulton Heath on September 18th (two), Silverdale Colliery on October 14th (two), Drayton Bassett Pits on November 15th (10), Gailey on 19th (11) and Beech on December 21st. W Mid Two or three were present near Aldridge from February 13th-15th and on April 18th. One was at Marsh Lane NR on March 19th and two in Smestow Valley on 30th. Six were at High Heath on October 4th. In the Wiggins Hill area, eight were noted on October 20th, with eleven on 26th and eight again on December 18th.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix Summer visitor in fluctuating numbers, but usually scarce. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: May 12th (19) to August 26th (15). 8-year average: May 20th (+8 days) to August 27th (+1 days).

45 The first was at Whitemoor Haye on May 3rd – much earlier than recent years; the last at Whitemoor Haye on July 31st. Warks A male was calling at Morton Bagot on May 20th JJB, in the same field as last year when it was heard on May 14th. The only other record was of a male heard calling at Fenny Compton on May 23rd and then again in the same hay meadow on July 1st JJB. Worcs Calling males were reported from Westwood Pool on May 23rd WDu et al, Lower Moor on June 4th GHP, two and three between Eckington and Nafford on 11th and 13th respectively RAP et al and at Longdon Marsh, two were heard on 18th, one on 22nd, two on 25th, one on 28th, 29th and July 2nd JHo et al. Singles also heard at on June 23rd TMH and Rous Lench on July 19th GHP. Staffs An excellent series of records this year. Up to three birds summered at Whitemoor Haye from May 3rd until July 31st RCB et al. Elsewhere, birds were reported from Aqualate on June 13th MPe, Beech on 20th SGD, two at High Offley from 23rd-28th PJon, Whitmore Bent Lane on July 6th APa and Weston Jones from 9th-23rd RPF.

2005 Addendum Warks Probably bred at Kites Hardwick, where a bevy of seven was seen in August SRu.

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus Very common resident, mainly in rural areas. Warks A total of 30 territories was located on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot compared to 20 in 2005. A female was found incubating eggs under a bush near the front door of the observer’s house at Maxstoke on March 29th, a very early date. It subsequently deserted and the eggs proved to be infertile. Another very early nest was at Radway, where a brood of chicks about three days old were seen on April 20th. The two largest counts were from shooting estates and involved 200 on Ilmington Downs on October 6th and 200 at Brailes Hill on 27th. Other notable reports included 62 at Morton Bagot on March 8th, 45 at Chesterton on August 18th and 40 at Fenny Compton on October 8th. Worcs Longdon Marsh held a female with 10 chicks on July 27th and three broods were reared at Bodenham Arboretum. Staffs A pair bred at Doxey, with two chicks, another at Drayton Bassett Pits with five young. Eight pairs were believed to have attempted breeding at Doxey. Double-figure counts, resulting from the release of captive-bred birds were noted in January at Doxey (10) and Lightwood (15); in March at Lightwood (17); in September at Chapel Chorlton (10); in October at Aqualate (25), Belvide (38) and Kemsey Manor (28); in November at Alrewas (36) and Doxey (10) and in December at Blithfield (18). W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, at least two pairs were present during the breeding season, but no young were seen; the year’s maximum was a count of 17 birds in February. Regularly recorded in Sandwell Valley, with a high of four in January, and Coundon Wedge, where a peak of five males was noted on May 13th. Other high counts included three at Burys Hill on April 13th, four at Nailcote Hall on 19th and six at Chadwick End on May 11th. One or two were also seen at Aldridge, Balsall Common, Blythe Valley CP, Clayhanger Marsh, Druids Heath, Lutley Wedge, Park Lime Pits, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Walsall Airport, Warrens Hall LNR and Whitley, whilst one wandered onto the outfield during a match at Edgbaston Cricket Ground on May 10th.

46 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata Rare winter visitor (6/10). Warks A single bird was present at Bedworth Slough from October 17th-23rd DBo et al. Found after a foggy morn - ing, it stayed long enough to be appreciated by many and con- tinues to show that it is not just the large well-watched waters that attract rarities. A single bird was also seen at Draycote on December 5th RCM, the first there since 2003. Red-throated Diver, Bedworth, Slough, Steve Seal

Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Rare winter visitor. Warks Draycote kept up its good reputation for attracting this species with birds present at both ends of the year. The three juveniles from December 2005 remained there until March 9th, with two staying to 18th and one until April 6th. Further birds were reported there on November 29th and December 5th, with two including an adult on the latter date. A bird was again present from December 14th and was joined by a second during 26th- 31st many observers. The only other record was of a first-summer bird at Newbold Quarry, Rugby from June 10th-16th many observers, which was doubly remarkable for both the unusual time of year and locality for a diver. Staffs Storm force winds in November resulted in a large influx of juvenile Great Northern Divers into the UK, believed to have originated from a north-westerly sector. This produced the first ever multiple count for a Staffordshire site, when at Chasewater, one from November 23rd-24th increased to two 25th-28th and then three from 29th-December 16th, after which two remained until the year-end GEv, PDJ, PWar et al.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Charlecote GP 4666688151813117 Coton/Lea Marston 14 10 10221161620272121 Draycote 43201571––1235372118 Ladywalk 13 26844–––562129 Salford Priors GP 8 2 18 18 18 20 26 36 60 50 21 9 Shustoke 16262256–161643605020 Grimley New Workings 22 5 15 10 6 15 15 22 11 15 24 15 Gwen Finch Wetland ––11–3––221– Kinsham Lake 74848912146457 Pirton Pool ––198615810653 Upton Warren 215523259773 Westwood Pool 13331310910833 Aqualate 334––––3232– Belvide ––2––2131171–– Blithfield 41121––861044– Brookleys Lake 6866––66773–

47 JFMAMJ JASOND Chasewater 774––247111969 Copmere 143–––––5245 Doxey –––2211–221– River Sow, Baswich5–41–––––336 Silverdale Colliery ––75713127–––– Tixall Bridge –––––1–22466 Fens Pools 115–1––––111 Marsh Lane NR – 2 8 12 12 14 24 28 24 11 6 2 Netherton Reservoir7584–––11573 Sandwell Valley 212331236555 Smestow Valley 3382–––23225 WeBS 2005 63 84 82 85 52 52 91 174 210 133 103 60 WeBS 2006 64 55 96 68 53 73 90 132 143 161 113 98

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (two), Chadshunt (two), Charlecote GP (four), Compton Verney, DMC Kineton, Ensors Pool, Fisher’s Mill GP, Idlicote, Ilmington, Kingsbury (two), Ladywalk (two), Lea Marston, Lighthorne Pools, Lower Radbourn, Napton Res (four), Packington Park (at least three), Ryton Pools CP (two), Salford Priors GP (13), Shustoke, Stoneton Moat (three), Ufton Fields, Whitacre Heath NR, Whittleford Park, Wimpstone (two) and Yarningale Common. The total of 53 at 25 sites was slightly better than 2005 (when 49 at 25 sites). Autumn counts of 60 at both Salford Priors GP and Shustoke were the highest ever from those waters. Elsewhere the best counts came from the Dosthill/Kingsbury area, with up to 12 in February-March and ten during November- December. Worcs Successful breeding pairs were recorded at Birtsmorton Pools, British Camp Reservoir (two), Church Lench Pool, Grimley New Workings (three), Kinsham Lake (two), Pirton Pool (two) and Ryall Pits (three). Away from the tabulated localities, 10 were noted at Birtsmorton Pools on October 1st and three at Grafton Reservoir on November 30th. Staffs Breeding was reported only from the following sites: Belvide (a pair with one chick), Brookleys Lake (four juveniles), Byrkley Park (two pairs raised an unspecified number of young) and Drayton Bassett Pits (two juveniles). At Silverdale Colliery, three pairs produced seven chicks from their first broods, two pairs then went on to second broods in August and produced another three chicks between them. Suspected breeding took place at Apedale CP, Doxey and Dunstall. Away from the tabulated sites, 12 at Barton Marina on August 12th was the only record in double figures. Reported from 39 sites across the county W Mid Birds bred at Blythe Valley CP, Marsh Lane NR (probably seven pairs) and Sheepwash UP (four pairs). Others were present in the breeding season at Handsworth Park, Sheepwash UP and Sutton Park. Also noted at Olton Mere, Titford Pools and Warrens Hall LNR.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Fairly common resident and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coombe Abbey 15 14 19 12–––––––– Coton/Lea Marston 15 – 10 10 12 14 20 25 26 20 33 37 Dosthill/Kingsbury 22 25 18 18 16 17 14 20 21 18 61 19

48 JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote 80 100 135 90 75 71 68 57 81 100 165 150 Earlswood – – 26 21 16 21 20 239–510 Shustoke 21 21 37 32 31 – 68 62 105 71 82 89 Bittell Reservoir 4122145971191492710 Bredonʼs Hardwick 2342438214108 Grimley New Workings –25444485441 Kinsham Lake 312222211121 Upton Warren 2918141186710141110 Westwood Pool 4 4 18 10 14 28 50 55 54 66 34 3 Alrewas GP – 20––8–1––29165 Aqualate 3 – 3 10 14 20 38 39 21 40 5 2 Belvide 202219138 –40502014714373 Blithfield 9 20 10 30 44 5 115 180 249 130 100 70 Chasewater 22 38 20–––52020273249 Copmere 2–1–416–81252 Croxall GP 44262–9––85– Doxey –298108141410753 Drayton Bassett –––26112––––– Elford Gravel Pits –61314–––8––152 Greenway Bank CP – 10–86–5––2–1 Tittesworth 35661181416181084 Edgbaston Reservoir 17 16 34 28 21 – 12––––4 Fens Pools 49861012121110101012 Marsh Lane NR –68633644262 Netherton Reservoir222222311––2 Olton Mere 1220268––6–22––11 Sandwell Valley 3263222447103 Sheepwash UP 24–67–4––––– Sutton Park 21412621–––9–– WeBS 2005 431 289 339 312 242 295 356 380 384 393 335 328 WeBS 2006 270 300 322 270 258 223 291 360 387 472 394 291 Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Proved breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (two), Chesterton (three), Compton Verney (three), Coton/Lea Marston (three), Dosthill Lake, Earlswood (three), Fisher’s Mill GP, Kingsbury (five), Ladywalk (two), Lower Radbourn, Middleton Hall, Napton Res (three), Packington Park (at least two at the Great Pool), Ryton Pools CP, Salford Priors GP (two pairs bred for the first time), Seeswood Pool, Shustoke and Wormleighton Res (two). The best count at Brandon was ten on February 12th. Worcs Three pairs bred successfully at Bishampton Vale Pool and single pairs fledged young at Church Lench Pool, Grimley Old Workings and Mill Shrub Pool. Few records were received away from the tabulated sites, but seven were counted at Trimpley Reservoir on March 4th, 10 at Hewell Grange on April 12th, then six on November 11th and seven at Bishampton Vale Pool on December 25th. Staffs Breeding was reported from Aqualate (three juveniles), Belvide (one juvenile), Blithfield (three), Brookleys Lake (one), Chasewater (four from two pairs of which three survived), Doxey (five pairs, eight young), Drayton Bassett Pits (three pairs, seven young not all survived), Central Forest Park (four juveniles), JCB North Lake Rocester (two young), Tixall Bridge (two pairs, two young) and Westport (three juveniles). Reports of attempted breeding, but no records of young, were received from Croxall, Holden Lane Pools, Hollybush Lake and Tittesworth. W Mid Pairs were only reported breeding at Dartmouth Park (three young fledged), Marsh Lane NR (two pairs), Olton Mere (14 juveniles counted on September 11th) and

49 Sheepwash UP (three attempted, but only one successful). Away from tabulated sites, high counts in March included 26 at Olton Mere on 1st and 14 at Bartley Reservoir on 4th, whilst small numbers were also noted at Bradnock’s Marsh, Mary Stevens Park, , Trittiford Pool and Walsall Arboretum. 2005 Addendum Warks There were 21 at Coombe Abbey on May 9th.

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks A single bird was reported from Brandon on September 4th BMCG. Staffs Two located at Alrewas Junction Pit on January 28th increased to three from 29th until February 10th, with two relocating to Chasewater on 11th GEv and Belvide on 12th SNu, the other staying at Alrewas until 13th. A juvenile at Belvide on September 8th SNu was the only autumn sighting. Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant. Warks Single birds were reported at Draycote on January 28th REH, DJS et al and February 7th RBR, and again on November 1st and 25th RCM. More unusually, a breeding- plumaged male was at Alvecote from May 19th-June 3rd RLS et al, and was seen displaying to Great Crested Grebes during its stay. The species has not previously been recorded in the region in June. Staffs One in summer plumage at Pretty Pigs Pool, Alvecote May 19th-June 3rd GJM et al (the same bird as in Warks above) and two at Chasewater on November 28th PDJ. Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Uncommon passage migrant and summer visitor, which sporadic breeding. Rare in winter. Warks After two very poor years there was a much better showing, commencing with the 2005 wintering bird which remained at Dosthill Lake until at least January 3rd SSe et al. Another was seen to arrive at Draycote in the late afternoon of February 21st JJB; while more typical spring birds appeared there on April 4th and 8th, with two on the latter date TBr et al. An adult in breeding plumage was admired by many Black-necked Grebe, Brandon, Steve Valentine observers at Brandon on July 2nd BMCG, while post-breeding singles were recorded at Hemlingford Water, Kingsbury on August 27th SLC et al and Draycote on 29th LPr, PPr and September 15th TBr. Finally a late bird was seen at Draycote on December 8th JJB et al. Worcs Just two autumn birds were reported, with an adult on Throckmorton Lagoons from July 7th-9th RAP et al and a juvenile at Westwood Pool on August 9th WDu et al. Staffs Two pairs displayed and one attempted to breed but failed. Sadly this was almost

50 certainly due to human disturbance. In the spring there was one at Blithfield from April 11th-16th, Gailey 12th-20th and June 9th-11th and two at Belvide on May 24th. In July, two dropped into Belvide on 1st-2nd, then an adult and juvenile from 8th-12th, the juvenile remaining until 21st. In the autumn a juvenile lingered from August 18th, being joined by an adult and juvenile on September 1st, one of these remaining until September 4th when joined by a second bird. Finally, one was seen on October 13th. Perhaps some of these birds also visited Gailey where three adults and a juvenile were in residence from July 17th-31st, the adult remaining until August 7th when joined by a juvenile, which stayed for the rest of the month. This juvenile remained into September when two more birds joined it from 5th, increasing to two adults and three juveniles from 9th-14th. Three birds remained on 15th then just an adult on 16th. Elsewhere, a juvenile was at Copmere on July 8th, an adult and juvenile at Blithfield on 13th, the juvenile remaining until 23rd, one at Chasewater on 16th, two at Fisherwick/Elford North Pit on 16th, an adult and juvenile at Blithfield on 30th and one on September 19th. At Aqualate there was one on August 15th and another from September 22nd-October 12th, with two additional birds on September 26th. Finally, a wintering adult remained at Barton GP from December 17th until the year’s end. W Mid An adult remained at Sheepwash UP from May 10th-13th ICW.

Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus Rare, mainly storm-driven, autumn vagrant (8/10). Warks A single bird was at Draycote for over an hour on September 19th TMa et al. Worcs One was found stranded at Tenbury Wells High School on September 21st, taken into care and released on the coast the following day ICre. Staffs An excellent year for pelagic birds generally and three “Manxies” in one year is the highest annual total since 1985. One spent the day at Blithfield on June 14th GJM (few if any records in this month in the region), an exhausted bird at Edwin Close Penkridge on September 22nd, despite being chased by cats, was taken into care uninjured GWe and the third was seen at Aqualate on 23rd DWE, SME.

Leachʼs Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa Rare, wind-blown autumn vagrant (5/10). Warks It was an exceptional year for this oceanic waif, with four representing the largest annual total in the county since the famous wreck of 1952. A single bird was present for just a minute towards dusk at Shustoke on December 7th BLK, before departing north-east. On the same date one appeared at Draycote, again in late afternoon, but this bird was reportedly caught and eaten by a Herring Gull per JJB. On December 8th another was present at Draycote in the morning, being joined by a second bird during late afternoon RCM et al. Worcs Last observed in the county in 1997, an incredible five individuals were Leachʼs Petrel Phil Jones recorded, all but one being storm-driven

51 birds during early December. One was found late in the afternoon at Westwood Pool on November 19th GDL et al. then, in December, one was picked up in the car park at Brinton Carpet Factory, on 5th, but died a few hours later per SDi, one was found dead in a field along the River Teme at on 6th ACa, another was found wandering around Tesco’s car-park in Redditch and taken into care on 8th per SDi and finally one was observed flying south over floodwaters at Bredon’s Hardwick also on 8th GHP. Staffs One at Blithfield on October 18th GJM was the first since 1989 and duly attracted a large crowd of admirers. Another was picked up dead by a non-birder at QVF Tollgate Industrial Estate (Stafford) on an unspecified date “in the autumn” per CSi, RTo. Winter storms in December resulted in several inland “wrecks” across the UK, including one at Belvide on 8th PCo, SNu, and another there briefly the following day SNu. Four birds in one year is a county record. W Mid One was found dead in the porch of a Bournville house on December 7th EWr and another was found alive in Tysley the next day, but later died in care per LCo.

Northern Gannet Morus bassanus Rare passage migrant and storm-driven vagrant (8/10). Worcs An adult was discovered in a field near Holt Heath on March 28th, taken into care on 29th and then released off the Severn Bridge, on April 1st SD. Staffs Flyover birds are usually noted each year, but the combination of fog and a snow storm caused an adult bird to land briefly at Tittesworth on March 12th RCH. W Mid An adult bird flew over Sandwell Valley on 15th March SWeb – the first county record since 1991.

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Fairly common winter resident and passage migrant. Uncommon breeder.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 98 31 1499251511101533 Coton/Lea Marston 10 – 3036361554163018 Draycote 7533318942612215880 Kingsbury area 60 57 32 26 12 27 16 55 33 51 63 45 Ladywalk 195 189 150 32 5 – 20 57 104 106 177 291 The Salfords 3237401014457163343 Bittell Reservoir 505043874422462820 Bredonʼs Hardwick 22 3 17 12 12 2 7 11 9 25 17 20 Grimley New Workings 322––––32214 Gwen Finch Wetland 9522–––122–2 Kinsham Lake ––––––12–612 Upton Warren 6753115711131715 Westwood Pool 2655132222636393824 Alrewas 12–122–––511 Aqualate 55 25 53 61 38 57 77 29 55 27 47 51 Belvide 1816107–1116390841 Blithfield 14 31 27 32 1 – 40 70 70 86 51 42 Chasewater 20822––21161440 Copmere 17 15 332–1–8746 Croxall GP –––1––6––14–– Doxey 6337212387133 Elford Gravel Pits –121–––––21111 Tittesworth 21 13 13 12 11 8 14 10 12 11 14 7 Tixall Bridge ––24221–1263 Marsh Lane NR 30 24 22 12668812152369

52 JFMAMJ JASOND Sandwell Valley 2112––––1642 Sheepwash UP 222213131232 Smestow Valley ––42–––2–313 WeBS 2005 431 349 272 163 181 226 276 252 233 558 258 346 WeBS 2006 345 237 264 186 130 164 229 224 330 307 471 231 Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006. Warks The breeding colony at Coombe Abbey again increased this year with at least 30 nests occupied. The largest counts away from the main waters included maxima of 15 at Farnborough Park on January 8th, 27 in Charlecote Park on February 18th, 11 on the lake at DMC Kineton on 26th, 12 at Earlswood Lakes on March 3rd, 100 at Coombe Abbey on 11th and 56 at Shustoke on August 11th. The Ladywalk roost reached a new high in December, with at least 291 present. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities Trimpley Reservoir held three on January 8th, eight were on Throckmorton Lagoons on September 24th and three at Hewell Grange on November 13th. Staffs The only breeding record came from a site in the west of the county where 31 nests were counted in April, most of the young having fledged and departed by mid-May but some nests were still holding young on July 16th. Away from the tabulated sites maximum counts were; 21 at Black Bank on August 29th flying south-east, 20 at Dosthill on March 21st, 11 at Shebdon on December 3rd and 10 at Silverdale colliery on December 9th. W Mid Highs of five birds flew over Olton Mere on April 27th and Goscote Valley on May 10th. Up to three were also seen at Bartley Reservoir, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Netherton Reservoir, Stubbers Green and Sutton Park.

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis Scarce visitor in all months, with occasional influxes in autumn and winter. Warks The only report was of a juvenile present at Napton Res from November 26th- December 8th JJB, DHa et al, with the bird found freshly dead on the last date. This small reservoir seems to have a curious attraction for this species, with other recent birds there in 1996, 2000 and 2005. Staffs An immature lingered at Branston Water Park from December 2nd-10th ESC et al.

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris Scarce winter visitor. Rare in summer. Warks This charismatic species continues to overwinter at both the two main reedbed reserves. At Brandon during the first quarter the bird from 2005 was seen regularly up to March 28th, but with two on March 14th JMR et al. Ladywalk also had a bird (presumably again the individual from 2005), which was observed on dates during February 1st-March 9th, with two there on March 2nd-3rd JHa, BLK et al. There were less frequent sightings in the autumn; mainly at Ladywalk, where a bird was seen regularly from October 13th- November 3rd, and then again on November 16th and December 29th JHa et al. The only sightings at Brandon involved singles on November 12th and 19th BMCG. In addition, a bird was seen in flight at dusk over Fisher’s Mill GP on November 28th BLK, and another was flushed from the edge of the Typha bed at Napton Res on December 7th RCM. Worcs During the first winter period the bird at Upton Warren first observed in 2005, remained in residence at the Moors Pool until February 28th. One was observed at Church

53 Lench Pool on February 4th RAP et al, after being reported by fishermen as being present throughout January and was also seen on February 12th and 28th. One flew low over Arrow Valley Golf Course on February 5th SPay and during the second winter period, one returned to the Moors Pool, Upton Warren from September 19th TNo et al, two were present from November 1st to the year’s end TPh et al, with three observed on November 13th and 14th CLa et al. Staffs A wintering bird at Aqualate was seen on ten occasions from January 1st until March 18th and on three occasions between November 19th and December 19th many observers. Another was seen at Branston Water Park on December 12th DAS per ESC.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Uncommon and increasing visitor. Warks

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––––2111–––– Dosthill/Kingsbury ––11–115741– Ladywalk –1–––1–11––– Salford Priors GP 11––1–2121–– The numbers visiting the county continue to rise and this year the Tame Valley regained top spot. Here birds increased from early August as a regular roost developed at Otter Pool in Kingsbury WP, and here there was a county record peak of seven on September 20th and 24th JKLA, WJE. Birds continued to use this roost site until October 24th. Elsewhere in the valley single birds were seen less regularly in the Coton/Lea Marston area, Middleton Hall Pool and Whitacre Heath NR, mainly in August and September but with two at Coton on December 28th. Other reports in the north involved a single bird at Seeswood Pool on February 13th and another at Alvecote on June 19th, with two there on August 4th. In the south there was a long-staying adult in Charlecote Park from February 12th-March 19th, with presumably the same bird seen in a roadside ditch near Wellesbourne on February 23rd and March 18th. Possibly the same bird was seen again on the River Avon at Myton Fields (Warwick) on March 31st, on the Avon at Barford on May 25th, in Warwick Castle Park on June 4th and then regularly at a new pool at Longbridge from June 5th-July 10th at least. Another long-stayer was on the Clayhill Brook at Long Lawford from February 24th-March 17th. Other singles were reported during the year at DMC Kineton on March 17th, Draycote on April 24th and May 6th, Sweet Knowle on May 23rd, Wootton Wawen on July 27th, Earlswood Lakes on August 23rd and again on 27th-28th, and on the River Arrow at on September 22nd. There were two at Coombe Abbey on August 26th. Worcs Three spring records comprised singles at Grimley Heronry Wood on April 29th, Grimley New Workings on May 14th and Longdon Marsh on 25th. The autumn influx commenced with one at Bredon’s Hardwick on July 2nd and elsewhere, singles were observed daily at Gwen Finch Wetland between 13th-August 4th, with two also present on July 21st, then three on 23rd and a single on August 12th. Singles were noted at Westwood Pool on July 14th and Kinsham Lake on 18th and August 3rd, whilst at Grimley New Workings singles or pairs were recorded almost daily between July 18th-August 15th. One flew over Kidderminster on July 24th, Upton Warren held single birds on many dates between 25th-September 7th, plus two were observed here on August 26th and Grimley Old Workings attracted one on July 27th and 30th, plus two on August 14th. One was along the Croome River on July 29th, Bredon’s Hardwick held four and three on 31st and August

54 19th respectively, two were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on August 5th and 6th and singles at Throckmorton Lagoons on 10th and Hollywood Golf Course on 19th. During the second winter period Westwood Pool held singles on October 4th, November 11th-19th and December 8th, singles were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on October 21st, Upton Warren on November 16th, Kempsey Lower Ham from December 10th-16th and Grimley New Workings on 31st. Two were also noted at Westwood Pool on December 26th. Staffs Birds were seen in all months of the year, reflecting the continuing rise in numbers year on year. In addition, the map compares sightings in 2001-03 (orange squares) with those in 2004 – 06 (dots), showing a clear range expansion. From January to February 11th, two birds were regularly seen at Whitemoor Haye, Croxall, Walton-on-Trent, Barton GP, with one remaining on and off until April 17th. Elsewhere two flew west over Belvide on January 17th, with one west on March 5th, one was at Blithfield on February 2nd, one at Gailey February 5th-6th, one at Blithfield on March 8th and another at Fazeley on April 19th. One at Drayton Bassett Pit on April 23rd-24th returned on May 6th. Another made a brief visit to Belvide on May 26th. In June, three were at Croxden on 3rd and one flew over Knypersley on 4th. In July, three at Tittesworth on 16th dropped to one the next day then two on 20th-21st; one was at Whitemoor Haye on 20th, two on 25th, one on 28th and 30th. At Blithfield, the first post- breeding arrival was on August 7th, rising to five on 19th-23rd, with regular sightings thereafter peaking at six on 31st and September 20th, before dropping to four until October 1st, three on 2nd, two on 5th and one on 8th with the same or another on 19th. Similarly, at Drayton Bassett Pits, one on August 8th rose to four by 21st, five on 28th and October 3rd, with one or two wintering birds from November 30th until year’s end. One at Croxall GP on August 3rd was also seen intermittently at Whitemoor Haye and Barton GP, increasing to three by September 7th, four on 17th and November 26th with the last bird seen on December 11th. Elsewhere there were four juveniles at Belvide on August 21st, one at Tittesworth on 29th, one at Branston Water Park September 1st-3rd, one at Croxden Quarry on 11th, six at Fisherwick/Elford North Pit on November 19th, singles at Shraleybrook on 27th and Belvide on 30th. W Mid Single birds were seen at Clayhanger Marsh on April 16th-17th, 24th and 26th- 28th, May 9th, September 12th and October 21st, Marsh Lane NR from April 20th-24th, on August 24th-25th and 28th, and September 4th, Hampton in Arden from April 21st- 23rd, in flight over Aldridge on July 10th, at Sandwell Valley in August and September, and in flight over Dunstall Park and Smestow Valley on October 21st – the second local record. Two flew over Fens Pools on May 14th.

Great White Egret Ardea alba Very rare vagrant (5/10). Warks An exceptional three records doubles the county total, but none were

55 unfortunately available for a wider audience. One at Chesterton Pools on March 24th HTeV had been present since 21st according to estate workers. They last saw the bird fly off to the north-east on the afternoon of the 24th. The second record involved a single bird which gave good views as it flew south-east over the Stratford Canal near Lowsonford at 07.30 on September 25th LCl. The third was present at Salford Priors GP on December 17th JJB, before flying off south at about 08.45.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Fairly common resident.

Monthly maxima from selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 12756891715111048 Ladywalk 10 12 3 7 3 15 16 10 12 11 5 5 Salford Priors GP 41169917121721211011 Bittell Reservoir 6526745513555 Bredonʼs Hardwick 87541 13134 Grimley New Workings 322––1132311 Gwen Finch Wetland 2–11–2123–2–– Kinsham Lake 22–1––111634 Upton Warren 843676111012755 Westwood Pool 122124161572023 Belvide –––––––––1316– Blithfield –8–6––131742288– Chasewater –––3––443323 Doxey 911458968915136 Gailey –20–20–––10–––– Tittesworth 21434111346653 Tixall Bridge ––8––7–––778 Marsh Lane NR 435445698534 Sandwell Valley 15 10 6 20 254633344 Smestow Valley 322351116912532

Warks Counts of occupied nests at our established heronries came from: Charlecote Park (16-18), Chesterton Wood (three), Coleshill (five at a new site), Coombe Abbey (60), Middleton Hall (9-11), Sweet Knowle (three) and Warwick Castle Park (17). There were none at Baddesley Clinton this year and it is thought that the heronry is probably now extinct. Away from the tabulated sites, counts included a party of nine flying south-west at dusk from Warwick University to Crackley Wood on January 11th, 12 at Coton on 29th and 18 at Alvecote on February 8th. Worcs The breeding populations remained stable at both Grimley (26 pairs) and (27 pairs). No over records received away from the tabulated sites. Staffs A number of sites were missing from the nest count this year. Those that were received include; Aqualate 43, Bagots Wood 45, Checkhill 8, Cowhay NR 3, Eccleshall 22, Enville 39, Gailey 20, Greenway Bank two, Hazelstrine 24, Onecote four, Tittesworth two and Trentham 16. At Tittesworth on May 9th a heron was observed eating a Mallard duckling. W Mid Several pairs again bred at Sandwell Valley, with seven nests used at Olton Mere and one pair nested for the first time in Dartmouth Park. Birds were also noted throughout the year at Saltwells LNR and Sheepwash UP (into double figures), as well as at many other locations across the county. A count of 16 birds at Dunstall Park on July 26th was a site record, whilst ten were noted at Bartley Reservoir on September 21st. At Marsh Lane NR, birds were seen to predate Little Grebe and Mallard young.

56 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus Staffs A juvenile was found at Newhall, Swadlincote, Derbyshire on September 17th. At 11am on 18th it was seen to fly off north-west heading into Staffordshire over Burton- on-Trent AAr, DPr. This is the second county and regional record, the first occurring over 150 years ago at Fradley on January 13th 1840. The bird subsequently took up residence on the Lancashire coast, remaining there for over a year. On Monday 18th September 2006 Dave Pratt and I were watching a Glossy Ibis near Newhall, Swadlincote, Derbyshire. The bird showed extremely well and escaped Puna Ibis was quickly eliminated from the equation. At 11.01am the bird decided to take flight. It circled low for a while before heading off in a north-westerly direction. Through my scope I managed to track its progress at it made its way towards Burton-upon-Trent. The bird then circled for a few minutes over what I estimated at the time to be the River Trent just east of Burton before continuing its leisurely trajectory north-west. We eventually lost view of the bird at 11.25am. The bird seemed to keep to its favoured flight path as what was undoubtedly the same individual was then seen briefly at Martin Mere WWT, Lancashire at 12.30pm on Wednesday 20th September 2006. This location is approximately 80 miles (as the Ibis flies) to the north-west of Swadlincote. The bird has now been resident in the north-west of England until June 2007 at least. Even though I was standing just inside the county of Derbyshire whilst watching the bird, it was definitely seen to enter Staffordshire air space over Burton-on-Trent. If it kept to its north-westerly route on its way to Martin Mere it would have headed towards Uttoxeter then Cheadle before heading between Leek and Stoke-on-Trent.

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia Rare summer visitor (8/10). Staffs One flew over Westport Lake on May 30th WJL while an immature landed in Tad Bay, Blithfield at 11.30 on September 14th and left 45 minutes later TBag.

Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus Rare passage migrant and summer visitor (9/10). Two 19th century breeding records. Staffs A good year for sightings. In spring, one passed over Knypersley Reservoir on April 4th GBr and another over Milford Common on May 25th MGo. In the autumn, a satellite-tagged juvenile departed its breeding area in North Scotland on September 7th, moving a few miles to the south-east 8th-15th, then headed south roosting at Carnwath, South Lanarkshire 13th-15th. On 16th it was detected at dawn at Cannock Chase, probably having roosted there overnight. At 09:30 it was on active migration over Wolverhampton and from there moved to Claverley, 5 miles east of before being picked up again on 19th at Warminster, Wiltshire per RCB, FCG. Presumably the same bird was observed flying over Gailey also on 16th SAR, IMo with another juvenile over Belvide the next day SNu.

Red Kite Milvus milvus Scarce though increasing visitor, partly from released stock. Bred until the early 19th Century. Warks There was a huge increase in records this year, with over twice the number recorded in 2005. Eighteen of these were reported in spring, with a significant number of these birds observed heading northwards. There were February singles at Warmington on 5th, Draycote on 11th, between Darlingscott and Armscote on 23rd (carrying an orange wing-tag), Draycote again on 25th and over the A46 near Wolston on 26th. Another orange- tagged bird was at Knightcote on March 5th, followed by singles at Beaudesert, Henley- in-Arden on 8th, Ashorne on 26th, Wormleighton Res on April 7th, possibly the same again at both Fenny Compton and Knightcote on 8th and over Earlswood Lakes on 10th. On April 11th one flew west at Kingsbury, with another reported from Astley on the same day. A bird was also present at Dordon for at least two days about the same time. One flew south

57 high over Brandon on April 27th with another on the Fenny Compton Hills on the same date. Further birds were noted at Draycote on May 4th and at Pillerton Hersey on 16th. An apparent small influx during early June produced singles at Kingsbury Colliery spoil mounds on June 1st and 4th, at Fisher’s Mill GP (probably the same) on 2nd, two in the Farnborough/Fenny Compton area on 4th, one over Warwick on 7th, one at Binley Woods and then Brandon on 10th, one over Draycote on 11th and two over Ladywalk on 13th. Further birds were reported at Ladywalk again on July 4th, by the River Arrow at Wixford on 11th, at Alscot Park on 28th, over both Lighthorne and Longbridge on August 28th, at Draycote on October 7th and beside the near on 17th. Sightings of an immature at Wormleighton on December 24th, Oakley Wood on 25th and then Compton Scorpion on 26th may have involved just one westward wandering individual. Worcs Just a single bird observed during the first winter period, at Fladbury on February 27th, then sighting increased markedly during March, with singles reported from British Camp IWe and Kempsey AHoll on 5th, on 14th, Hartlebury ISa and Upper Bittell Reservoir GJM on 20th and Upton Warren on 26th PMA, NOa, MIW, BPo. Spring observations came from Marlbrook on April 7th SSh, Fish Hill on 13th MET, on 15th MAS, Upper Bittell Reservoir on 18th SP, Swinyard Hill on 27th RHus, Bredon Hill on May 10th and 12th RAP et al, Dowles Brook on 13th JDav and Woodbury Quarry on 18th. A scattering of sightings continued throughout the summer months, with singles noted at Crabbe Tree Farm on June 1st, Nafford on 2nd, Bredon Hill on 2nd and 19th RAP, Defford Airfield MSm and Malvern Link WEP on 3rd, Hollybed Common on 10th MSm, on 14th SBea, Feckenham on 16th JDav, on 18th VPh, Hollywood on July 7th JWin and Worcestershire Beacon on 12th MBr. Hereafter sightings became few and far between, with one at Castlemorton Common on August 6th Wde, one at Holt Prairies on September 20th TWel and one at Upton Warren on October 7th DREW. Singles also observed on or around Bredon Hill on many dates between September 10th-October 15th RAP et al. Staffs Year <1990 1990-99 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Birds 5 13 9 4 3 15 4 11 12 Sightings continue to show an increasing trend, as a result of the national re-introduction schemes. Singles were noted at Belvide on March 10th per SNu, over Tatenhill Airfield on March 25th JBird, over Aqualate on 29th PJA, over Strawberry Hill the next day RSo with it or another over the A38 south of Lichfield FCG, at Belvide on April 6th SNu, 29th GJM, Handsacre Flash on June 10th ESC, Stafford on June 10th MSu, Aqualate on July 30th PJor and August 21st EHu with one at Belvide on August 15th. Many more records appeared on various hotlines but unfortunately no descriptions were submitted. W Mid Single birds were seen flying over Wordsley on March 12th GPa, Marsh Lane NR on April 2nd, May 1st and June 1st per NPB, West Bromwich (viewed from an office window) on April 7th REH, Shirley Heath School on June 8th NDG and Sutton Coldfield in October per SBo. Unsubstantiated reports related to individuals over on April 6th, Four Oaks on 16th, and both Northfield and Wednesfield on June 4th.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Scarce passage migrant. Warks A female mobbed by Carrion Crows and Common Buzzards at Brandon on January 29th BMCG, may have been the same bird as that recorded near Kenilworth in

58 December 2005. An immature male drifting north-east at Ladywalk being mobbed by Common Buzzards on February 25th JNe, SSe was probably an early spring passage migrant. Two more early migrants were noted in March, with a female flying north-east at Kingsbury in the early evening of March 23rd WJE, and another over Ladywalk on 27th per SSe. More typically, single adult males passed through Draycote on May 6th RCM and Fenny Compton on 9th JJB, a female was at Brandon on 14th-15th BMCG, and another female was at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on 19th PAJN, BWo, SCWo. Just four singles were noted on return passage, with single “cream-crowns” at Brandon on August 6th GBl and 17th BMCG, a female at Kingsbury on September 9th SSe et al, and a juvenile at Ladywalk on 23rd per SLC. At least two of these were seen to depart to the south. Worcs Three spring passage females observed in the county, the first being at the Flash Pools at Upton Warren on April 30th BRS, DREW, AWa et al. Kinsham Lake held one from May 6th-9th AWa et al., then this same individual was seen nearby at Gwen Finch Wetland on 10th and 11th JHo et al. and a new female was spotted at Kinsham Lake on 20th GHP. Staffs As with Red Kite, several observations were reported but not submitted with descriptions. A female/immature passed over Lum Edge on May 4th RMB, with others at Belvide on 14th and 18th SNu, then Aqualate SPar and a female/immature at Bateswood CP on June 2nd MSu, an immature at Blithfield August 12th-16th SAR, GJM, ESC and again on 20th GSu, one at Doxey on September 10th MCr and finally a female/immature at Aqualate on September 25th DCham.

1994 Addendum Warks A female was seen near the Daventry Road in the northern part of Grandborough parish on April 23rd TMa.

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred in Staffs in 1974-5 and 1979. Warks Eight new birds in the county this year was the best total ever. During the first quarter the wintering adult female from 2005 remained in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area until April 28th many observers. It was also reported from nearby Coton on February 14th. A male and female were present in the Honiley/Wroxall area from around January 10th- March 10th PA p . On autumn passage single ringtails were observed at Brandon on September 1st and October 5th JMR et al, at Kingsbury on 24th WJE, and at Wormleighton on 31st JJB. A ringtail was mobbed by crows at Middleton on November 27th SPn, while a male was present in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area from December 11th-14th SLC, WJE, JMal et al. Worcs An adult male arrived at Defford Airfield on March 4th MSm et al. and was last observed here on 15th. Presumably the same male was seen on Bredon Hill on April 9th RAP, then at Cowsden on May 23rd GHP, WFP et al and Hindlip on 25th SBl. Staffs A wintering female at Drayton Bassett Pits/Dosthill remained until March 25th, although it was seen again on April 18th JHa et al. At Swallow Moss, a male and ringtail roosted most evenings JAL et al. The ringtail moulted into male plumage during its stay and on January 20th they were joined by a third, female bird RMB. Sightings were regular until February 18th, after which a male bird was seen on March 26th. A ringtail flew through Blithfield on April 26th PDH. On October 4th an immature was seen at Goldsitch Moss SJT and a second-year male quartered Drayton Bassett Pits/Dosthill on December 11th-14th JHa, ARD.

59 Montaguʼs Harrier Circus pygargus Rare passage migrant (5/10). Worcs A female was discovered hunting along a wide set-aside margin of an oil seed rape crop on the eastern side of Bredon Hill on May 4th RAP. It then perched on a fence post for around four minutes, before being flushed by a dog walker, then circled the rape field twice, before heading off in a south-easterly direction. The first county record since one at Upton Warren in 1995. Staffs An immature female flew north over Whitemoor Haye on April 22nd at 17:45 SAR, the first record since one at Belvide in May 2000.

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Scarce to uncommon resident and visitor. Warks Breeding was established at a locality in the south-west, where a pair and two young were observed in July. Breeding season records also came from two traditional sites in the north (at one of which a pair was rumoured to be present) and another in a central locality. Outside these areas there were a number of reports, mainly in autumn, from several sites across the north of the county but most of these lack convincing descriptions, apart from an adult female flying east over Shustoke on October 18th JHa. In the south an adult male was seen at Halford on February 1st JJB. Worcs During the breeding season a pair was observed displaying above Wyre Forest on April 4th and a female was videoed plucking what was believed to be a Jackdaw on the lawn of a small Worcester suburban garden on May 19th AWin. This seemed a very strange locality for a wild bird and the possibility of captive origin was considered, but the video showed the legs not to carry jesses and she also appeared unringed. She remained on the lawn for about an hour, before departing with prey. One at on December 27th IDu, was the only other sighting this year. Staffs Probably bred at four sites with juveniles seen at one (sites and observers withheld). The only other sightings were a male at Seighford on January 2nd MGo, a well- watched bird at Blithfield March 4th-11th GJM et al, a female at Hanchurch Woods on 26th SJT and one at Tittesworth on September 3rd JOak, EPl, MBe. W Mid One lingered at Sheepwash UP during April per AGW.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Fairly common resident. Warks No change in status. Breeding pairs were located at: Avon Dassett, Bishop’s Itchington, Brandon, Chesterton Wood, Crimscote, Fenny Compton (two), Idlicote Hills, Ilmington Downs, Knavenhill Wood, Napton Hill, Oakley Wood, Oversley Wood, Salford Priors GP, Spernall Park and near Wormleighton Res. Worcs The only report received of a nesting pair came from Upton Warren, where birds were also observed throughout the year. Reported as resident at Timberhonger and other records submitted were of one over a Malvern Link garden on March 17th, three in the Wyre Forest on April 4th, three at Pershore on 15th and singles at Little Comberton on 17th, Throckmorton Tip on 23rd and Bittell Reservoir on September 9th. Staffs Breeding pairs were confirmed at Chasewater, Coombes Valley, Doxey, Ranton and Tixall Bridge. Probably also bred at Brindley Ford. Records came from a further 23 sites during the breeding season. Recorded from 97 sites outside the breeding season, with a maximum of four at Aqualate on March 21st and Wombourne on April 7th.

60 W Mid Recorded during the breeding season at Alcester, Aldridge, Allesley Park, Ashmore Lake, Aston, Castle Bromwich, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fibbersley, Hampton Coppice, Handsworth, Leighswood, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Portway, Reedswood Park, Sutton Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Small Heath, Smestow Valley (at least four pairs), West Bromwich and Whitley. Also noted at Acocks Green, Balsall Common, Bartley Reservoir, Bournville, Birmingham, Burbury, Coombeswood, Cradley Heath, Daisy Bank, The Dingles, Five Ways, Great Barr, Hall Green, Highters Heath, Kingstanding, Kingswinford, New Invention, Olton Mere, Penn, Priory Fields, Thimblemill Brook, Walsall Airport and Warstock.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Fairly common and increasing resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A common bird distributed throughout the county. Breeding records included six pairs in the Knavenhill Wood group of woodlands and six nests in Fenny Compton parish. At Wormleighton Res on July 27th a bird was watched carrying a large Grass Snake to the nest. There were otherwise numerous reports of up to ten together from localities in all corners of the county, with higher counts including 11 at Dunnington on February 9th, 12 at Fenny Compton on March 11th, a total of 25 passing through Ladywalk on April 1st, 17 between Bidford and Marlcliff on 5th, 12 on Ilmington Downs on May 6th, 13 at Billesley on June 23rd, 11 at Salford Priors GP on September 17th and 11 at Brandon on 26th. Worcs A common resident throughout the county. Reported from over 60 localities during the breeding season, including a count of 20 birds in the Wyre Forest on April 4th, five at Hewell Grange on 12th, 16 on Bredon Hill on 17th, plus 12 on May 20th and 10 on June 2nd, three territories were held along Dowles Brook, three breeding pairs in the Timberhonger area and a pair bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum. Three adults and four juveniles were seen over on August 24th and two juveniles were at Little Comberton on 26th. The best counts received outside the breeding season were of six at Upper Arley on January 29th, five at Beckford on March 6th, four at Bittell Reservoir on 22nd, four at Strensham Lagoons on August 6th, six at Hollywood on 23rd, 12 on Bredon Hill on 25th, five at Redditch Town Centre on September 18th and 15 at Sheriff’s Lench on 24th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Byrkley Park (two fledged), Belvide (three pairs, one fledged two birds), Coombes Valley (four pairs), Doley (two pairs, one and two fledged), Doxey (two pairs), River Sow Meadows (one nestling) and Tixall Bridge (one nest). High counts comprised eight at Blithfield and 15 at Gailey on March 25th, eight at Castle Ring (Cannock Chase) and 10 at Croxden Quarry on August 18th, 11 at Tixall Bridge on September 8th, 11 at Tittesworth on 17th and 14 at Belvide on November 4th. An almost all white bird was noted at Tittesworth on August 21st. W Mid Breeding season records came from Aldridge, Chadwick End, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, Fibbersley, Goscote Valley, Langley, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Park Lime Pits, Penn, Quinton, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR (a pair present, but did not breed), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley (two or three pairs bred, at least one successfully), Streetley and Sutton Park. Also noted at Balsall Common, Blythe Valley, Clayhanger, Cradley Heath, , Fens Pools, Great Barr, Ketley Quarry, Kingswinford, The Leasowes, Leighswood, Lutley, Netherton, Sutton Coldfield, Temple Balsall, Trittiford Park, Walsall Airport, Walsgrave, West Bromwich, Whitley, and Yew Tree. High counts included 13 over

61 Marsh Lane NR on March 19th and 12 on May 6th, 12 over Smestow Valley on March 6th and 29th, eight over Sandwell Valley in September, ten over Walmley on 6th and seven over Cheswick Green on 17th and October 2nd. At Marsh Lane NR, presumably the same bird fed on fish and Mallard carcasses on February 15th-16th, respectively.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus Uncommon passage migrant. Warks There were a record number of sightings this year, with a particularly impressive spring passage and the first recorded summering bird in the county. At least 13 briefly- staying spring migrants were noted in March and April; most of these were reported heading northwards. Single birds were reported over Brandon on March 26th and 29th, Pack ington Park and Coton on April 3rd, Draycote on 4th, Kingsbury on 6th, Rugby on 8th, Alcester on 10th, Packington again on 12th, Draycote again on 14th, Dosthill Lake on 17th with probably the same bird over Middleton Hall the same day, over Seeswood Pool on 19th and over on 29th. In May a single colour-ringed bird, first noted at Coombe Abbey on May 14th, appar - ently continued to visit there until at least late July. From photographs taken per NPB, it was identified as a Osprey, Brandon, Steve Valentine bird in its second year from Rutland Water. All other records during this period may well have referred to this individual which often took to wandering. Sightings came from Draycote on May 10th, Ladywalk on 16th and 20th, in Packington Park on 31st and from June 15th-17th, and then at Kingsbury on 20th. At Brandon it was seen on June 11th, 16th, 20th and July 6th. Possibly the last sightings of this bird was at Packington on August 3rd and then at Ladywalk on 7th, where it caught a fish before flying south. Two long-staying birds lingered in autumn, with a juvenile in Packington Park from August 23rd- September 5th and another at Brandon from August 29th-October 28th, with two there on October 11th. Some of the other sightings of birds around the county during this period may have involved these two individuals but it is impossible to say for certain. Singles were noted at Ladywalk (a juvenile) on August 24th, Draycote on September 7th-8th, fishing at Compton Verney on an unrecorded day during the same month, over the River Avon at Stoneleigh Abbey on 24th, flying south over the Dassett Hills at Farnborough on 26th, at Draycote on October 10th and over Cryfield on 12th. Worcs Singles were observed on spring passage at the Moors Pools, Upton Warren on April 1st, Stourport-on-Severn on 4th, Upper Bittell Reservoir on May 18th, Trimpley Reservoir on 27th and Dowles Brook on 29th. During the autumn, Bredon’s Hardwick held one from September 6th-19th, one was fishing for 30 minutes at Grimley New Workings on 10th TJ and another was fishing at Aztec Water Sports Lake, Lower Moor on 28th KM.

62 Staffs

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Birds 17116 21163933 A total of 19 birds was recorded on spring passage. The first was at Aqualate on April 3rd, then a long-stayer at Blithfield from 4th-17th and one over Pool Hall Fisheries also on 4th. Later, April sightings came from Aqualate (three), Baggeridge CP, Belvide (two), Dosthill, Seven Springs, Silverdale Colliery and Tittesworth. In May records came from Aqualate, Belvide (two), Blithfield (two) and Westport. Up to two visited Patshull Estate from June 21st-23rd and singles, possibly the same bird, at Blithfield on 26th and 29th. On return passage, there were 11 birds, commencing with one Tittesworth on July 4th, then Blithfield on August 26th, another from September 5th-12th which also visited Bagot’s Wood on 7th, Tittesworth on 15th, Aqualate and Gailey on 17th, Blithfield from 17th-22nd, Belvide and Baswich on 23rd, Westport on October 14th and finally Silverdale Colliery from 16th-22nd. W Mid Singles flew over Marsh Lane NR on April 12th and 29th, and June 23rd per NPB, and over Sandwell Valley in October PHac.

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Fairly common resident. Warks The population appears to remain fairly stable, with breeding pairs reported from: Broom, Charlecote Park, Compton Verney, Ettington Park, Fenny Compton, Fulready, Halford, Honington, Idlicote, Ladywalk, Maxstoke Priory, Morton Bagot, Nuneaton, Priors Hardwick, Salford Priors GP and Tredington. Worcs Just a single breeding record was received from Lower Moor, where young were successfully reared. A pair were noted on Knighton Church tower during the breeding season and other sighting made in this period at Bittell Reservoir, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common, Holt Heath, Monkwood Green, Ryall Pits, Timberhonger, Upton Warren, Worcestershire Beacon and the Wyre Forest. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at Woodhead where a pair used a nest box, Ellastone and Wardlow Quarry. Two pairs bred in the Silverdale area producing one and three fledglings, three juveniles with two adults at Brookleys, a juvenile was seen at Ranton and a group of eight adults and immatures hunted together at Wettonmill. Pairs were also noted at Doxey, Gib Torr, Hen Cloud, Knotbury and Weston Jones. Reported from 90 sites this year compared with 119 last year. This may in part be due to the drop in rodent numbers in 2006. Notable counts included five at Tixall Bridge on November 5th and four at Cuckoo Bank on April 15th, Alrewas June 11th, Drystone Edge on 29th and Weaver Hills on September 1st. W Mid Pairs bred at Dunstall Park, Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory) and Smestow Valley. Other breeding season records came from Aldridge, Bowmans Harbour, Chelmsley Wood, Cheswick Green, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fibbersley, Marsh Lane NR, Nailcote, New Invention, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park, West Bromwich and Winson Green. Also noted at Balsall Common, Barr Beacon, Beechdale Primary School, Birmingham, Cradley Heath, The Dingles, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, The Leasowes, Lutley Wedge, Maypole, Olton Mere, Reedswood Park, Rotton Park, Trittiford Park, Walsall Airport, Whitley, Wordsley and Yardley Wood. At Marsh Lane NR, one tried taking a juvenile Lapwing on June 24th, but was seen off by a Lapwing/Common Tern combination and was nearly drowned in the process, whilst another appeared to be hawking dragonflies on July 24th.

63 Merlin Falco columbarius Uncommon winter visitor. Rare breeding species on the northern moors. Warks The only report in the far north during the first quarter was of a female at Alvecote on January 2nd, one of two which were said to be present at nearby Shuttington during the month. Another bird was present in the Coombe Abbey area during January- February, with possibly the same at nearby Brandon on February 26th and March 4th. Further south there were sightings of a bird at Knowle End on Edge Hill on January 4th, and a female at Napton Res on 5th with probably the same bird at Draycote from February 8th-11th. Another female at Charlecote GP on January 6th was also seen at neighbouring Wasperton on 31st. A bird was seen near Willington in the Stour Valley on January 30th, and the observer commented that he had seen them fairly regularly in that area for over 40 years, showing that farmland wintering is not a new habit. DMC Kineton had a bird on February 10th, followed by males at Salford Priors GP on 12th and Budbrooke on 26th. A female was seen daily at Fenny Compton from February 24th-March 5th, with possibly the same bird at nearby Chapel Ascote on March 11th and Watergall on 15th. Also on March 15th there were sightings of a male at Hill (Leamington Hastings) and a female at Snitterfield, while the last of the quarter involved a male at Forshaw Heath on 27th. The first autumn record was of a female-type bird which flew south at Shustoke on September 13th. Further Tame Valley reports concerned singles at Kingsbury on October 31st and Ladywalk on November 19th. The best site in the north however was Birchmoor, where birds regularly attended a huge Linnet flock feeding in redundant farmland. The first sighting here was of a female on October 27th, followed by a male from November 19th- December 1st and then a female again from December 9th-31st. Records from the south and east of the county included one at Draycote on October 9th-10th, single females at Fenny Compton on 14th and Chesterton on November 7th, a male at Wormleighton Res on 9th and 12th, a female at Compton Verney on December 3rd and 6th, and a final male at Priors Hardwick on 15th. Worcs During the first winter period an immature male was at Wadborough on January 2nd, an immature female at Grimley Old Workings on 7th, a female at Lower Moor on 14th, a female at Shenstone on 16th, one at Grimley New Workings on 27th, a female at Throckmorton Tip and Airfield on 28th and at Holt Prairies a female was present on February 12th, a male on 22nd and an immature on March 19th. Other March sightings comprised an immature male at Gwen Finch Wetland on 3rd and 12th, a female at Throckmorton Tip on 7th and 10th, one at Severn Stoke on 11th, a female at Defford Airfield on 15th and 23rd and a female at Westwood Pool on 25th. During April a male was noted at Grimley New Workings on 3rd and singles were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 8th and Shenstone on 9th. An unseasonable male was reported from Little Comberton on August 6th. The second winter period produced one at Eckington on October 1st, a juvenile at Westwood Pool and one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 8th, plus Lower Moor hosted a male on 18th, a female on 26th and a male on November 8th, December 18th and 28th. A female was spotted on the on October 28th, Defford Airfield held a male throughout November and December, an adult male was at Grimley Old Workings on November 12th and 26th, a male between Drayton and Hillpool on 26th, an immature female at Upton-upon-Severn on December 11th and an immature at Holt Prairies on 29th. Staffs One pair bred successfully with three chicks with possibly another pair but this was unconfirmed. In the first winter period a pair lingered at Whitemoor Haye until February 8th and a female was seen three times at Belvide between January 8th and

64 February 25th. Elsewhere birds were seen at Swallow Moss on January 2nd, Stramshall on 7th, Aqualate on 8th (female/immature), Doxey on 12th (male), Middle Hills on 15th (male), Ingestre and Lightwood on 22nd, Blithfield on 27th (male), Prince Farm King’s Bromley on 28th, Cuckoo Bank on February 9th, Doxey on 26th, Belvide on April 4th (female), Gailey on 9th (female) and Aqualate on 26th (male). In the second winter period birds were seen at Belvide, an immature was seen sporadically from September 16th- November 21st, an adult male on September 16th and November 25th and a female from December 11th-15th. This last bird was seen to catch a Starling on 15th. A female/ immature was recorded three times at Crossplains between September 23rd and November 16th, as was one at Blithfield from October 6th-28th with it or another from December 24th-28th. A female at Doxey from October 29th-December 9th was seen to catch a Reed Bunting on November 4th. Other sightings came from Tittesworth on August 22nd, Rifle Range on September 18th, Tittesworth on October 8th, an escape with jesses and bells at Drayton Bassett Pits on 13th, Chasewater on 15th (female), Cuckoo Bank on 28th (female/immature), Whitemoor Haye on 29th, Aqualate on November 7th (male), Keele University on 10th and 13th, Branston GP on December 2nd (male) and at Croxall GP. W Mid A male was noted at Monkspath on February 15th ARD and single female/ immature birds were seen at Marsh Lane NR on March 24th and April 11th, Wiggins Hill on September 12th BLK, Wishaw Golf Course on October 23rd (taking Red Admiral butterflies) and 24th BLK, and Smestow Valley on December 1st GAC, KMC.

Hobby Falco subbuteo Uncommon, but increasing, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 22nd (39) to October 8th (42). 8-year average: April 12th (–10 days) to October 13th (+5 days). The first sighting was, in line with recent trends, at Shenstone on April 9th, the last on October 28th at Fenny Compton and Wordsley. Warks This little raptor appeared to enjoy a better year this year with a total of 23 probable or confirmed breeding pairs located across the county, of which six were in the north, three were in the north-east and east, two in central locations and 12 were in the south. At eight sites where success was monitored, at least 12 young fledged and only one of these pairs failed entirely. The first spring migrant appeared at Brandon on April 16th, with further birds at both Kingsbury and Ladywalk on 18th before the main arrival from 25th. During June up to four adults could be seen hunting dragonflies at Brandon and five at Salford Priors GP. At the end of the season more were reported in early October than usual, with reports of one or two birds coming from eight sites during October 1st-8th. Later birds were seen at Napton Res on October 14th, Bramcote Hall on 19th with a juvenile at Fenny Compton on 28th JJB becoming the latest ever confirmed county record. Worcs Two pairs bred successfully in the south-east of the county, one fledging two and the other a single young. Pairs were also reported during the breeding season at Clevelode, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake and Upton Warren. Singles were recorded in the breeding season at Abberton, British Camp Reservoir, Bishampton Bank, Eckington, Evesham, Grimley New and Old Workings, Hampton, Hanley Swan, Little Comberton, Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor, Nineveh, Pershore, Stourport-on-Severn, Throckmorton Tip and Tilesford. The first spring bird was observed at Shenstone on April 9th and five were noted at Kinsham Lake on May 17th and 19th. From the beginning of August, until early October, sightings came from 25 localities, including counts of four at Sheriff’s Lench on August 27th and three at Upton Warren on September 13th, plus a minimum of four birds

65 were noted on Bredon Hill during August and September. The last five individuals were observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 27th, Westwood Pool on 29th, Upton Warren on 30th and October 3rd, Lower Smite Farm on 6th and Bredon’s Norton on 7th. Staffs The first returning bird was seen at the Katyn Memorial on April 16th followed by one at Gailey the next day, with the main influx occurring from 22nd onwards. Breeding was confirmed from four sites, producing one, two, three and four fledglings and birds were seen at 32 other localities during June and July (cf. 33 in 2005). Counts of three birds were logged at Aqualate from April to July rising to four in September. Three were also present at Swallow Moss in May, Blithfield in August and Belvide in September. Autumn sightings were almost on a daily basis until September 25th, the last birds in October at Aqualate (two) and Branston WP on 1st, Drayton Bassett Pits on 3rd and Blithfield on 4th. W Mid Two pairs bred in the county: one raised three young and the other at least two. At Marsh Lane NR, up to three birds were regularly noted between April 18th and October 1st. Single birds were seen in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area a record 13 times, from April 30th (the earliest ever locally) to September 6th. In Sandwell Valley, individuals were seen in May, June and August, with two in September. Single birds were noted at Russell’s Hall on May 27th, Sutton Park on June 3rd, Darby’s Hill and near to Dorridge Park on 14th, Four Oaks on 18th, Walsall on July 7th, Barston STW on August 22nd, Hockley Heath on 28th, Goscote Valley on September 4th and Wordsley on October 28th. Birds were seen to take Little Ringed Plovers and Linnet at Marsh Lane NR.

2005 Addition Warks The final total of confirmed breeding pairs was thirteen.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Frequent winter visitor and passage migrant. Uncommon breeding species. Warks A record five pairs were thought to have attempted breeding in the north and east of the county, with two on quarry faces and three on man-made structures. At the latter three sites, two pairs reared at least five young with the third clutch sadly reported to have been stolen by a collector. One of the quarry pairs may also have been robbed. Away from breeding sites records came from over 40 localities during the year, with regular summer sightings in the south-west perhaps suggesting that there may be more breeding pairs yet to be discovered. Worcs Pairs were present at seven suitable nesting localities during the breeding season, with two pairs successfully rearing broods of three and one pair fledged two young. Away from the breeding sites, single juvenile birds were observed at Throckmorton Airfield on August 18th, at Lower Moor on 19th and at Upton Warren on October 19th. Reported from 42 localities during the year, including winter period sightings from Bredon’s Hardwick, Bredon’s Norton, Clent Hills (two), Clifton Pits (two), Grimley New Workings (two), Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor (two), Lower Smite Farm, Malvern Hills, Malvern Link, Sheriff’s Lench, Stoke Bliss, Throckmorton Airfield, Upper Arley, Upper Bittell Reservoir (two) and Upton Warren (two). Staffs Successfully bred at four sites this year with a total of at least seven fledglings, failed at another site and possibly bred at a sixth site late on in the season – much the same as last year. Birds were reported throughout the year with sightings from 60 localities, the same at last year, suggesting that the increases in recent years might now be levelling off. Three were seen at Yoxall during August and an adult was robbed of its prey by a Raven at Croxden Quarry on January 21st.

66 W Mid Pairs bred at the BT Tower and Fort Dunlop, both in Birmingham. A pair frequented flats in Bloxwich during January and February. One or two birds were often seen perched on Old Cathedral from January 29th to March 4th. At Marsh Lane NR, two sightings were made in February and March, one in April and May, two in June, one in August and September, two in October, one in November and six in December; birds were seen to take Eurasian Teal and Moorhen. In the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area, single birds were seen in February, May and September, and twice in October. At Chelmsley Wood, two flew over on July 27th and one on December 7th. Two birds were noted at Wishaw on September 4th and 6th, with singles on October 27th and December 15th. Individuals also flew over Sandwell Valley in January; Sheepwash UP on 4th; Erdington on February 6th; Rotton Park on March 25th; Goscote Valley on April 1st, June 28th, July 21st and October 29th; Elmdon on May 13th; Clayhanger on 17th; Reedswood Park on June 3rd, July 2nd and October 9th; Kingswinford on June 3rd; Sutton Park on 11th; Nechells on September 19th; Garretts Green on November 18th; Dorridge on 28th and Dartmouth Park on December 15th.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus Frequent winter visitor and uncommon resident.

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Upton Warren 312122221345 Westwood Pool 32222–121332 Marsh Lane 111322333221 Sandwell Valley 323121–23342 Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were located at: Brandon (several broods seen), Mancetter Quarry, Middleton Hall GP, Napton Res (two) and Salford Priors GP (two, one brood seen). Further breeding season reports came from Abbots Salford, Coombe Abbey and Ladywalk. Outside this period maximum counts included at least 12 at Salford Priors GP on October 29th, five at Wormleighton Res on November 12th and nine at Brandon on December 19th, while up to six were present at both Ladywalk and Napton Res at both ends of the year. Other sites to hold one-three birds (often regularly) included: Abbey Fields (Kenilworth), Water Rail at Brandon Marsh, Steve Valentine Alvecote, Bedworth Slough, Brownsover Mill, Chesterton, Coton, Earlswood Lakes, Fenny Compton STW, Fisher’s Mill GP, Guy’s Cliffe, Hampton Wood (River Avon), Knightcote, Lea Marston, Lighthorne Pools, Lighthorne Quarry, Lower Radbourn, Napton Hill Quarry, Kingsbury WP, Seeswood Pool, Warwick Castle Park, Whitacre Heath NR and Whittleford Park. One unfortunate bird was killed by a car as it crossed a road at Whitacre Heath at dusk.

67 Worcs At least one pair reared two young at Gwen Finch Wetland and reported from Oakley Pool, Puxton Marsh and Upton Warren during the breeding season. During the first winter period, singles were at Grimley New Workings, six at Gwen Finch Wetland and three at Lower Moor between January and March, one was at Castlemorton Common on January 1st and one at Church Lench Pool on February 5th. Grimley Old Workings held maximum counts of four and Gwen Finch Wetland six during the second winter period, whilst four were at Lower Moor between November 5th-December 31st. Other sighting during this period comprised one at Grimley New Workings on October 5th, two at Kinsham Lake on 8th, four at Oakley Pool on November 3rd, two at Lower Bittell Reservoir on 19th and one at Clifton Pits on December 26th. Staffs In the first winter period birds were reported from Aqualate, Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Belvide, Branston WP, Drayton Bassett Pits and Doxey where nine birds were noted on January 29th. Also reported from less regular sites at Festival Park (on Festival Pool), at Knypersley Reservoir and at Tixall Bridge. Breeding was confirmed at Aqualate where juveniles were seen in mid-August and at Doxey where 29 pairs were present, slightly higher than the previous three years (24, 27, 27). Other summer records came from Branston Water Park where a single bird was noted on July 31st. In the second winter period the species was also at Copmere on November 11th, Oakamoor on December 17th and at Dosthill with two on December 22nd. W Mid Breeding was confirmed at Marsh Lane NR for the first time, where at least one youngster was noted from July 20th; possibly a second pair was also present. Also recorded during the breeding season at Sandwell Valley, but with no evidence of breeding. A winter visitor to Sheepwash UP, being noted from January until March and again from October till the year’s end, with a maximum count of three birds. Single birds were noted at Fibbersley on January 15th, Goscote Valley on 16th, Mushroom Green Marsh on 21st, February 27th and March 2nd; Fens Pools in January and March; Dunstall Park on February 9th and 26th; and Wightwick on April 3rd and 5th. Probably the same bird remained at Dunstall Park from October 18th to late December.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (9/10). Has bred. Staffs An exciting discovery of a bird calling on territory from April 30th until at least May 13th. There was no evidence of young however. Site and observers withheld.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Very common resident.

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell Reservoir 141612711510104914 Grimley New Workings 29 15 30 25 7 20 28 32 16 28 36 24 Gwen Finch Wetland 1245533412884– Kinsham Lake 676676612871011 Pirton Pool 86332616262117146 Upton Warren 15 15 15 15 15 6 18 14 24 22 20 15 Westwood Pool 222433121331322 Alrewas 12–––9–––––613 Aqualate ––––7–1212–––– Belvide 12–––2––73––3– Blithfield –26––––161212––

68 JFMAMJ JASOND Chasewater 14 178––––46285015– Doxey 22 28 19 18 12 20 24 24 18 24 24 17 River Sow, Baswich61015––––––16128 Tittesworth 21221–163123 Coundon Wedge 1496341555256 Fens Pools 14151589581712211915 Marsh Lane NR 14 8 14 6 10 5 18 23 15 14 19 12 Sandwell Valley –62––7–––715–

Warks At least five broods were seen at Brandon, four pairs bred on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot, and 12 pairs bred in the Napton Res area. At least 16 broods were noted along the River Stour between Preston and Shipston, averaging at about one brood per km. Outside the breeding season counts remained at the low level of recent years, with maxima of: 20 at Napton Res on January 5th, 23 at Coombe Abbey on 15th, 28 at Farnborough Park on February 4th, 20 at Hodnell Pool on 8th, 30 at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on March 24th, 38 at Salford Priors GP on August 6th, 26 at Brandon on 17th, 35 at Draycote on November 16th and 27 at the Coton/Lea Marston Pools on 20th. Worcs A common breeding species at wetland sites throughout the county. Counts made away from the tabulated localities were of 17 at Croome Landscape Park on January 1st, nine at Birtsmorton Pools on September 3rd and two on Castlemorton Common on October 1st. Staffs No exceptional numbers were noted in the first winter period, the highest number reported being 28 at Doxey on February 12th. Breeding was confirmed at nine sites including previously unreported sites at Broad Heath and Berry Hill. 29 pairs bred at Doxey. In the second winter period the highest total noted was at Chasewater on October 20th when 50 birds were present. W Mid Under-recorded as a breeding species: only confirmed from Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR (at least six pairs, but likely to be an underestimate), Moseley Park, Olton Mere, Rocket Pool, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Steelpark Way (Wednesfield). Also noted along the near Aldridge, Balsall Common, Blythe Valley, Cannon Hill Park, Clayhanger, The Dingles, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Haden Hill Park, Hay Head Wood, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Moseley Park, Nailcote Hall, Netherton Reservoir, Park Lime Pits, Reedswood Park, Sutton Park, Thimblemill Brook, Titford Pools, Trittiford Pool, Wake Green, Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall LNR and Whitley.

Common Coot Fulica atra Fairly common resident, common in winter.

Monthly maxima for selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton/Lea Marston – – 350 – 38 52 270 200 486 800 1023 331 Dosthill/Kingsbury 700 455 150 95 – 110 183 278 367 463 605 636 Draycote 865 511 350 100 75 235 430 605 820 226 170 121 Napton Res 155 150 140 63 45 47 100 100 87 115 165 180 Salford Priors GP 100 100 95 70 61 55 110 135 175 170 68 77 Shustoke 530 308 176 85 37 – 380 427 363 289 196 235 Bittell Reservoir 22 26 24 24 19 24 43 35 25 22 20 18 Bredonʼs Hardwick 136 49 68 19 23 28 6 1 61 23 57 Grimley New Workings 110 75 120 83 42 62 64 81 94 120 114 130 Gwen Finch Wetland 3 112189626–6–

69 JFMAMJ JASOND Kinsham Lake 86 78 37 30 21 35 63 101 97 128 168 178 Pirton Pool 11673515548731191414108597 Upton Warren 400 261 164 68 39 79 122 112 170 250 160 51 Westwood Pool 11 10 8 20 30 108 160 125 6 24 7 14 Alrewas – 14 –5–––12–100148300 Aqualate 78 81 30 57 39 210 396 453 1045 798 800 20 Belvide 700 301 255 203 120 513 858 634 151 44 120 141 Blithfield 80 282 200 80 – – 550 600 600 300 10 81 Brookleys Lake 721020–––303023202650 Chasewater 924 466 410 – 18 – – 656–––930 Coldmeece Pools 225 180 92 12 6 – 38 96–––– Copmere 3247101570110305330450367 Croxall GP 25 – 60 12 2 – 65 – – 49 18 – Doxey 52 60 62 48 30 41 37 49 38 44 58 40 Drayton Bassett Pits–––30–26150––––– Fisherwick/Elford North Pit30376614–––––44322 Tittesworth ––39–20–4––––– Whitemoor Haye 4030–6––––––150– Fens Pools 62 77 59 37 45 63 95 102 103 119 47 73 Marsh Lane NR 109 108 91 60 40 47 96 150 165 158 123 130 Netherton Reservoir 71 55 46 42 16 14 24 44 50 62 61 64 Sandwell Valley 160 15 6 64 22 6 17 9 100 – 50 50 WeBS 2005 3872 3158 2137 1287 920 2141 3243 3972 3955 3471 3402 3457 WeBS 2006 3523 2670 2242 1359 993 1474 2854 3990 4636 4500 3778 3662

Note: WeBS counts were not carried out at Blithfield in 2006.

Warks Counts of broods or occupied nests included: at least eight at both Brandon and Coton/Lea Marston Pools, six at Draycote, five at Lighthorne Quarry, ten at Lower Radbourn, 21 at Napton Res and at least 20 at Salford Priors GP. Maxima away from tabulated waters included 115 at Alvecote on January 4th, 69 at Coombe Abbey on 15th, 70 at Compton Verney on 20th, 56 at Ladywalk in November, 50 at Abbots Salford Pool on December 3rd and 42 at Brandon on 29th. Worcs Breeding pairs recorded at Bodenham Arboretum (three), Bredon’s Hardwick (three+), Grimley New Workings (at least 14 broods), Kinsham Lake, Pirton Pool, Ryall Pits (two), Upton Warren (many) and Westwood Pool. Away from the tabulated localities, Birtsmorton Pools held six on August 20th, 16 on September 3rd, 10 on 17th and 27 on October 1st. Staffs Some high numbers were present in the first winter period with 700 at Belvide on January 1st and 924 at Chasewater on the 15th. In the breeding season reports of breeding were received from 16 sites around the county including Baggeridge CP, Brookley’s Lake, Castletown Pool, Coldmeece, Doxey (26 pairs), Silverdale Colliery and Stableford. In the late summer numbers at Belvide were slightly lower than in the previous year but were close to the previous-five-year-average of 963 birds and suggested little major change. The highest count at Belvide, 858 birds, occurred on July 31st whilst the highest count made in the county of 1045 birds at Aqualate, was made on September 17th W Mid Birds bred at Blythe Valley, Dartmouth Park, Dunstall Park, Dudley No.2 Canal, Haden Hill Park, Hill Hook, Marsh Lane NR (at least 23 pairs, c.f. eleven last year), Netherton Reservoir, Olton Mere, Rocket Pool, Sheepwash UP, Steelpark way (Wednesfield) and Victoria Park. Also noted along the Daw End Branch Canal near Aldridge, Balsall Common, Cannon Hill Park, Clayhanger, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hay Head Wood, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Moseley Park, Park Lime Pits,

70 Reedswood Park, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Titford Pools, Trittiford Pool, Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall LNR and Whitley. Numbers at Sheepwash UP peaked at 60 in December.

Common Crane Grus grus Rare vagrant (6/10). Staffs One flew off early morning at Bateswood on April 17th RJJ.

2005 Addendum Staffs The bird at Belvide on October 15th was the ninth county record and not the eighth as stated.

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus Frequent passage migrant. Scarce winter visitor and uncommon breeding bird, the latter mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –1324561–––– Dosthill/Kingsbury 16688666–––– Draycote –1631112–1–1 Ladywalk 1122262––––– Salford Priors GP ––22542––––– Alrewas –32–22–––––– Aqualate ––14––2––––– Barton GP ––2–5––––––– Belvide 1476788––––1 Blithfield 1365355121–– Branston GP –4222533–––– Branston Water Park–2––2–2––––– Chasewater ––22231––––– Coldmeece Pools –42212–––––– Croxall GP –245141––––– Doxey Marshes ––342321–––– Drayton Bassett Pits–2235142–––– Elford Gravel Pits ––13–––3–––– Gailey 12421––––––– Tittesworth Reservoir––121551–––– Whitemoor Haye –343921––––– Marsh Lane NR –46451176––––

Warks A record seven breeding pairs were located, with four of these rearing a total of nine young. Pairs were present at Alvecote (failed), Brandon (three young reared), Dosthill (a pair laid eggs twice, but both clutches disappeared), Kingsbury (two pairs, but only one young reared), Salford Priors GP (two young reared), and on a new scrape at Toft Farm Lakes, Kites Hardwick (three young reared). Away from breeding sites up to three were noted regularly during the period March-August at Abbots Salford, the Coton/Lea Marston area, Packington and The Somers, with odd records also at Shustoke and Whitacre Heath. A single bird visited Earlswood Lakes on May 4th. Worcs One was at Bredon’s Hardwick on February 18th, with a pair present from March 19th until July when their nest was flooded out, but reared one young from a second brood in August. At Kinsham Lake a pair were present from March 12th-August 10th, in which time they reared one young, while at Upton Warren singles on February 5th, 14th,

71 15th, and 21st, were followed by two on March 14th, and four on April 12th, with a pair on a nest from 26th. Elsewhere, one was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on March 10th, one at Holt Prairies on 28th, one at Grimley New Workings on 7th, two on 14th, four on April 4th and eight on 25th. At Throckmorton Lagoons, singles on April 2nd and 11th, preceded two on May 1st and singles on May 13th and 25th and at Lower Moor one was seen regularly from April 7th-June 26th. Gwen Finch Wetland hosted two on April 9th, one on June 11th and two on July 5th and one was as Westwood Pool on May 20th and one at Croome River on 31st. Staffs

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Breeding Pairs (successful) 2(1) 5(3) 2(1) 6(5) 7(5) 9(4)

Breeding occurred at Barton GP (three young), Belvide (three well grown young by May 28th, then the same or a different pair sitting on June 4th but with no further records this attempt probably failed), Blithfield (nest with eggs found, probably failed), Branston GP (one young), Branston WP (nesting, probably failed), Doxey (two pairs, both failed) and Drayton Bassett Pits (three young, two survived). Nine at the River Tame, Tamworth on February 27th was a good count with smaller numbers recorded in February at King’s Bromley GP; in March at Dosthill, Stowe Pool and Whitmore; in April at Copmere, Doley, Walton-on-Trent and Westport; in May at Fauld, Kettlebrook Lakes, Stableford, Westport and West End (Stoke); in June at Baswich, Fauld, JCB North Lake, Marchington, Power Station, Stableford and Tixall Bridge. W Mid Two pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, one raising two young. At Sandwell Valley, one or two birds were seen each month until June, but there was no evidence of nesting. An unprecedented number of birds were seen in the Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area on June 17th, when a total of at least six flew over, with just one the next day that stayed until July 5th. Two birds flew over Park Lime Pits on May 14th. Single birds were noted at Bradnocks Marsh on April 3rd, Clayhanger on 16th and Stubbers Green on June 8th.

Black-winged Stilt, Upton Warren, Andy Warr

72 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus Rare passage migrant (0/10) Worcs A female at Upton Warren on May 21st and 22nd CBL et al, was a first for the reserve and only the second county record, the first being at Larford in 1986. It was also the seventh regional record.

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Rare passage migrant and very rare breeder (8/10). Worcs Three arrived at Upton Warren on April 1st, whilst one was present on 5th and 9th and then two from 12th, with one on a nest from 26th. The first two young hatched on June 1st, while by 3rd, three adults and four chicks were present, with two adults and four juveniles present for the remainder of the month and then three adults and four juveniles on July 6th. One of the adults and the four juveniles remained until August 2nd. The only other record concerned two at Lower Moor on May 2nd. Staffs Two at Blithfield on April 14th DMW, ESC, RSw, GJM were relocated at Whitemoor Haye the next day MYa, ESC.

Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus Rare vagrant (2/10). Staffs On May 27th, one was found with a broken wing on Burton Road, Elford and was taken into care at RSPCA Hospital at Stapeley Grange but sadly later died per BCr. This is now the first accepted county record (see addendum below).

1956 Addendum Staffs After a review by the Staffordshire Rarities Committee, it was decided that the status of the record of a bird at Blackbrook SF on the unusual date of 28th December 1956 should be revised to “not proven”, especially given the date of the claim. This record has now been removed from the county list.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Frequent summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 20th (42) to October 4th (42). 8-year average: March 14th (–6 days) to September 30th (–4 days). First seen on the typical date of March 15th at Wiseman’s Scrape; the last was later than average at Blithfield on October 14th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––13422–1––– Dosthill/Kingsbury ––178791–––– Draycote ––2462462––– Earlswood ––––159–1––– Ladywalk –––2–11––––– Salford Priors GP ––310108211––– Grimley New Workings –––2515––––– Ryall Pits ––––8 24–––– Upper Bittell –––––1233––– Upton Warren ––48101316641–– Belvide ––43391452––– Blithfield –––32–18742–– Branston GP –––64322––––

73 JFMAMJ JASOND Byrkley Park ––1––6–1–––– Chasewater ––123–121––– Coldmeece Pools ––38671––––– Croxall GP –––415312––– Croxden Quarry ––––32–––––– Doxey Marshes ––46435––––– Drayton Bassett Pits–––6623––––– Silverdale Colliery ––332––––––– Tittesworth –––23–1221––– Westport Lake –––3–52––––– Whitemoor Haye ––110914––––– Dunstall Park ––14241––––– Marsh Lane NR – – 7 10 11 11 112–––– Sandwell Valley ––2338122––––

Warks Another good year with at least 18 breeding pairs located, although poor fledging success was as ever a problem. Single pairs (unless otherwise stated) were at: Abbots Salford, Baxterley (one, but up to five birds present), Brandon, Dordon, Draycote, Exhall Grange, Kingsbury (three, all flooded out in June but a brood was noted in early July), Kites Hardwick (two, at a new scrape), Lea Marston, Morton Bagot and Salford Priors GP (five, all failed). A more unusual locality for this species was Earlswood Lakes, where good numbers were present during the summer including a displaying pair, but attempted breeding was not thought to have occurred. Other recent sites were no doubt occupied but not checked, for instance an adult was seen on waste ground at Longbridge on July 7th where breeding occurred in 2005. Away from the main sites passage birds were also noted in the north of the county at Alvecote, Bedworth, Bermuda and Coton. Further south an adult and two juveniles were on the scrape at Newbold Comyn on July 30th, with one there on August 5th; while a single bird was noted at Chesterton on August 18th. Extreme dates were March 19th at Salford Priors GP and September 9th at Brandon. Worcs At Upton Warren just one chick fledged during breeding season, while at Throckmorton Lagoons a pair present from May 18th-August 15th fledged one young. Away from the tabulated sites one was in Droitwich at Wiseman’s Scrape on March 15th, with a pair there on 24th and five on 25th, one at Clifton Pits on 26th, two at Bredon’s Hardwick from April 19th-May 8th, four at Bury End Flash on May 3rd and two at Kinsham Lake from 6th-July 29th, whilst at Lower Moor four were present from March 22nd-June 9th and one on July 27th. At Longdon Marsh one was present on June 25th and then two adults and two juveniles from July 14th-20th, whilst one at Westwood Pool on July 3rd was the first locality record since 1994. Gwen Finch Wetland held one on July 8th and one was at Lickmoor Wetland on July 10th and 14th. Staffs

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Breeding Pairs 11 7 9 16 17-18 14 First arrival was at Bratch Locks on March 16th then Belvide 21st; the last at Blithfield on September 27th and two on the late date of October 14th. Breeding occurred at the Britannia Stadium (two pairs), Byrkley Park (one pair double-brooded producing four young), Coldmeece (three pairs, one with three juveniles), Doxey (two pairs, one with two juveniles, the other had eggs predated by crows), Drayton Bassett Pits (one pair), Rudyard Lake (displaying), Silverdale Colliery (one pair, one juvenile), Tittesworth (at least one pair raised two young) and Uttoxeter Quarry (two pairs probably bred). Elsewhere there

74 was one at Gailey on April 15th and 30th, three at Kingswood on 19th, one at Alrewas Junction Pit on May 1st, two at Barton GP on 7th and one at Hints GP on 23rd. W Mid Birds bred at Dunstall Park (at least one pair, but unsuccessful), Marsh Lane NR (three pairs attempted, all caged, but only one was successful, fledging three young) and Sandwell Valley. Also present during the breeding season at Sheepwash UP, but did not breed. One was seen at Stubbers Green on April 4th, with two at Steelpark Way (Wednes - field) on 23rd.

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Frequent passage migrant and scarce summer resident. Rare in mid-winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –255542––1–– Dosthill/Kingsbury ––13341––––– Draycote ––122––694–– Salford Priors GP ––21452111––– Lower Moor ––112––––––– Grimley New Workings ––––1––11––– Upper Bittell –––––––2–7–– Upton Warren ––1622132––– Barton GP ––2–2––––––– Belvide ––1512–712––– Blithfield –––123534172–– Branston GP –3335431–––– Chasewater ––––3––741–– Croxall GP –15332236––– Doxey ––12316––––– Drayton Bassett Pits–125211––––– Tittesworth Reservoir––––––1–2––– Whitemoor Haye –541415212––––– Marsh Lane NR –288101097–––– Warks Single breeding pairs were reported from: Brandon (one young reared), Kingsbury and Salford Priors GP (three young hatched, but probably later predated). Passage numbers were very slightly up on 2005, with the largest count of 14 at Salford Priors GP on April 23rd. Away from the main sites there were also singles at Ladywalk on April 2nd, Earlswood Lakes on June 28th, Shustoke on August 14th-15th and September 12th, and at Abbots Salford from September 13th-15th. Birds were present in the county from February 14th-October 4th. Worcs Away from the tabu- lated sites, one at Westwood Pool on May 3rd was only the second locality record, whilst two were at Kinsham Lake on Ringed Plover, Draycote, Steve Valentine 14th, one at Bury End Flash on 19th and two at Saxon’s Lode on 20th. During the autumn a juvenile was at Longdon

75 Marsh on July 22nd, an adult was at Throckmorton Lagoons on August 13th, with a juvenile there on 19th, one was at Gwen Finch Wetland on 20th and two there on September 6th and finally three were at Bredon’s Hardwick on September 5th. Staffs Single pairs bred at Branston GP and Fradley, each rearing two young. Untabu- lated records came from Coldmeece Pools on April 8th, Little Hay on 30th, Croxden Quarry on July 27th and Crossplains on September 6th. W Mid Two pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR (both caged), but only one was successful, fledging three young. Two birds were noted at Sheepwash UP on April 24th and Dunstall Park on August 5th, and singles visited Sandwell Valley in March and September.

Dotterel Charadrius morinellus Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (7/10). Worcs Three on Bredon Hill on August 20th and 21st comprised a juvenile and two adults WFP et al, with the juvenile remaining until 23rd. This record coincided with a large influx of the species along the English east coast a few days earlier. Staffs A trip of four birds, two females and two in transitional plumage, were found on private farmland at Whitmore Bent Lane on May 2nd NDP.

European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Common passage migrant and winter visitor. Scarce, and declining breeding species on the North Staffs Moors. Long-term average: August 14th (58) to April 30th (60). 8-year average: August 20th (+6 days) to April 30th (=). First noted at Gwen Finch on August 30th and last reported at Copston Magna on April 17th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Birchmoor 2005125120––––2660420220 Dosthill/Kingsbury area 800 500––––––––2– Draycote 25030025060–––––10014634 Fenny Compton/ Wormleighton 500 250 300–––––1755022 Hartshill –––––––––370200117 Bredon Hill – – – 40––––5120160– Lower Moor 15 450 150–––– 18850285 Grimley New Workings ––––––––12120150 Gwen Finch Wetland –––––––1209–– Ryall Pits –––––––––4180– Throckmorton Tip 12 60+ –––––––48–– Upper Bittell –––––––––55501000+ Belvide 10025750––––2287473127 Berry Hill – – 51 134–––––25026060 Black Bank ––154370–––––94012 Blithfield –1––––––115035740 Branston GP –40–14–––––550–– Britannia Stadium – – 112 76–––––––– Chasewater Reservoir – 1 – 13–––––51330 Crossplains 190–403––––––190320– Cuckoo Bank –31007–––––3780430 Doxey 100200201––––––49259 Drayton Bassett Pits200300–––––––––– Keele 282350164320––––––70– Lower Hatton 100 – 140–––––––––

76 JFMAMJ JASOND Morridge Top – – – 60 4–––––5– Park Hall CP 20022062300–––––––73 River Sow, Baswich20–––––––––25020 Stableford 4006–––––––––– Whitemoor Haye 2005001206–––––––– Dunstall Park/ Smestow Valley ––––––––1114248 Illshaw/Hockley Heaths ––––––––235320500 Marsh Lane NR 750 18 – 400 –––––25030020

Warks The usually regular Birchmoor flock spent more time in the Bramcote Hall area during the early months, where it peaked at 700 on March 24th. Other sizeable flocks during the first quarter included 130 at Charlecote GP on January 2nd, 400 at Weston-on- Avon on 5th, 500 at Bishop’s Itchington on 21st, 100 near Ufton on February 5th, 200 at Attleborough Fields on 20th, 100 at Curdworth on March 8th and 250 at Copston Magna on April 17th. The first autumn migrant was noted at Birchmoor on September 1st but in general birds were both late in arriving and in smaller numbers than usual. Away from the tabulated sites the only flocks to reach three figures involved 200 at Wellesbourne Airfield on November 4th with 300 at nearby Charlecote GP on 8th, 250 at Brandon on December 5th and 100 at Gaydon on 17th. The exception was a flock by the M6 Toll Road between Curdworth and Wishaw during December, which peaked at 1200 on 18th. Worcs In January, 60 were at Croome Landscape Park on 1st, three at Upton Warren on 3rd, 150 at Tilesford on 31st, whilst in February 15 were at Hill Furze on 10th, with 180 there on 27th. In March three were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 5th, 250 at Defford Airfield on 7th and two there on 11th. During the second winter period four were at Sheriffs Lench on September 3rd, one flew over on 5th, one at Westwood Pool on October 7th, 10 at Sheriffs Lench on 21st, one at Holt Heath on November 9th, 150 at Tilesford on 24th, 60 at Grimley Old Workings on 26th, 130+ at Stoulton on 30th, 250 at Wyre Piddle on December 3rd and four at Golden Plover, Park Hall CP, Dave Kelsall Clifton Pits on 27th. Staffs One or two pairs may have bred at Orchard Common, one pair behaving as though protecting young, but this was unconfirmed. Larger untabulated winter flocks comprised; in January, 100 at Byrkley Park and 40 at Ingestre; in March, 200 at Broad Heath and 500 at Essington Quarry Pool; in April, 80 at Flash and 60 at Onecote; in October, 300 at Barton GP and 100 at ; in November, 450 at Needwood and 50 at Winkhill and in December, 140 at Beech, 70 at Ellenhall and 200 at Radford Meadows. W Mid Other January sightings involved four over Reedswood Park on 16th and about 230 at Blythe Valley on 22nd. Later in the first part of the year, 35 were seen at Darby’s Hill on March 13th, ten flew over Sheepwash UP on April 8th and seven were noted at Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) on 12th. In the latter part of the year, twenty flew over

77 Goscote Valley on October 20th, 80 went over Sheepwash UP on November 9th, about 100 flew over Acocks Green on 29th and one was seen at Darby’s Hill on December 20th.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A bird in breeding plumage at Kingsbury on May 8th-9th also visited Dosthill Lake on the latter date. There were autumn singles at Draycote on October 9th and November 26th. Worcs One with Lapwings at Upton Warren on December 8th was the only record. Staffs Spring passage consisted of singles at Belvide on March 24th and April 30th and Branston GPs on May 17th. In autumn, Belvide hosted the first on July 5th-6th and the last on October 8th with Blithfield having one on August 3rd (flying north), 5th (summer plumage), 13th (two flew north), September 9th (flew through) and 14th.

Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Common migrant and winter visitor. Fairly common to common, breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 200 69 26 20 14 200 450 600 750 620 358 256 Dosthill/Kingsbury 1000 950 105 32 10 116 180 150 238 200 325 500 Draycote 1000 600 100––4304517750850600 Fenny Compton 200 1000 10022–541751869650 Radway/DMC Kineton 1070 700 250 12 10 20 70–––1– Salford Priors GP 120 1000 36 34 45 235 400 750 214 155 60 81 Bittell Reservoir 560855043118690111400200350 Bredonʼs Hardwick 31 230 5 9 16 1 69 276 82 104 126 – Grimley New Workings 40 40 60 30 4 10 81 78 145 180 88 180 Kinsham Lake 4 – 2 15 12 75 15 90 45 120 – – Ryall Pits ––––––––19616130– Upton Warren 600 1500 170 10 12 20 150 120 320 377 400 958 Alrewas 21 200––6181––10067 Apedale CP –28–8–––––18– Aqualate 230 – 10––––––––25 Aston/Burston 150150–31–––100––– Belvide Reservoir 1685 1268 153 18 30 232 526 710 630 1160 1117 150 Berry Hill ––644–3226325012024 Black Bank ––71210–––457–– Blithfield 500 46 – 10 1 7 230 450 500 639 500 200 Branston GP 5001200–––25–4–45–– Brown Lees – – 32 16 14––––––– Chasewater 85 105 17–4–35674160187182 Coldmeece Pools 19 120 23 14 11 9 – 250 200 11 – – Crossplains ––––––––300300–– Croxall GP – 500–11–11––123–– Cuckoo Bank ––––124––474421– Denstone 270 240–2–––––––– Doley Common 360 40 40 12 – – 90–––4064 Doxey 240 300 72 36 28 55 134 264 385 250 192 330 Drayton Bassett Pits500–––917146170630200300250 Fauld –110––––––––250– Millmeece – 200–8–––––––– Needwood – – – 28––––375––– Radford Bank –––––––––680– Ranton – – 506–––––––– Rickerscote ––––––––––20050

78 JFMAMJ JASOND River Sow, Baswich – 28 50 10 4 – 30 130 90 40 240 250 Silverdale Colliery ––324–3–––58110 Stableford 2200 750 52–89––––6– Tittesworth 80 49 150 2 2 17 137 175 223 75 133 8 Tixall Bridge ––1123–120100–10025 Trent Valley, East Bishton 40 100––––20––––– Whitemoor Haye 150 200 20 8 25 25 14 – – 30 – 2 Whitmore – Bent Lane 150 148 21 15 21 57 41 87 121 87 – 56 Dunstall Park 10 665747018017045271445 Marsh Lane NR 2000 950 119 26 50 78 300 350 596 586 576 186 Sandwell Valley 57 61 47 20 18 22 50 90 80 65 53 5 Sheepwash UP 54 3582–316––6041 Stubbers Green 149 149–4173971101486271

Warks The total of 100 pairs located at 34 sites was rather down on other recent seasons, but this may be due to patchier coverage. Flooding at some of the main wetland sites in May led to many clutches lost. Breeding pairs were located at: Abbots Salford (four), near Bentley Park Wood, Bishopton, Bramcote Hall (at least two), Brandon (seven nests, only three hatched young), Chelmscote (five), Chesterton (four), Clifford Chambers, DMC Kineton (five, cf. ten in 2005), Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Fisher’s Mill GP, Kingsbury (five, only one successful), Kites Hardwick (four), Ladywalk (three), Lapworth, Little Dassett, Little Packington (six in area), Longbridge, Moreton Morrell, Morton Bagot, Packington Park (five), Polesworth, Poolfields, Priors Hardwick (five), Salford Priors GP (17 in area, cf. 12 in 2005), Seeswood, Shustoke, Spernall Park, Studley (three), Tysoe (five), Willicote (two), Wimpstone and Wroxall. Outside the breeding season flocks in the order of 100-150 were fairly widespread. Away from the tabulated sites maxima in the first quarter also included 500 at Sherbourne on January 22nd, 250 between Charlecote and Wasperton on 27th and February 10th, 170 at Abbots Salford on January 31st, 200 at Tysoe on February 11th and 200 near Napton Res on March 22nd. Autumn and early winter flocks included maxima of 1000 by the M40 at Avon Dassett during September, 450 at Farnborough and then near Wormleighton Res on September 26th, 650 on floodwater at Leamington Hastings on October 12th, 255 at Priors Hardwick on 30th, 200 over Coton on November 27th, 370 at Hampton Lucy on 28th, 230 at Abbots Salford on December 1st and 800 by the M6 Toll Road between Curdworth and Wishaw on 18th. Worcs Breeding season records came from Nash End, where ten were at occasional breeding site on March 5th, six on 31st and seven on April 30th, Throckmorton Lagoons where a pair bred, Upper Arley and Cobbler’s Corner with one or two pairs on May 23rd. Elsewhere, 120 were at Three Counties Showground on January 28th, 200 were at Tilesford on 31st, 70+ at Throckmorton Lagoons on February 4th, 62 at Lower Moor on 13th, three at Weatheroak Hill on April 18th, 100 at Longdon Marsh on June 25th, 35 at Arrow Valley Golf Course on July 24th, 100 at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 8th, 260 on 14th, 300 on 28th, 250 there on August 16th and 30 at Strensham Lagoons on August 6th. A leucistic bird was at Throckmorton Lagoons on October 9th, whilst 150 were on Bredon Hill on 20th, 165 were at Arrow Valley Golf Course on 29th, with 102 there on November 5th, 200 at Lower Moor on 29th, 90 at Stoulton on 30th, 150 at Longdon Marsh on December 8th and 250 at Lower Moor on 31st. Staffs Year 2003 2004 2005 2006 Breeding Pairs 350-354 284-302 284-302 280-297

79 Little change in the number of breeding pairs compared with the previous two years. Productivity was very poor, full details as follows: Alrewas 2-3 pairs Apedale CP 4 pairs Aqualate 5 pairs Aston-by-Stone 3 pairs Bateswood 5 pairs present, probably all failed Beaconside 1 pair Bednall 1 pair Beech 4 pairs Belvide 7 pairs in adjoining fields Berry Hill 3 pairs, probably all failed Black Bank 6 pairs, one juvenile Blithfield 2 pairs, one juvenile Brindley Ford 2 pairs, one chick Britannia Stadium 3 pairs Brown Edge 1 pair Brown Lees 5-7 pairs 1 pair Butterton (Newcastle) 3 pairs Butterton Moor 3 pairs Consall Valley 1 pair Church Eaton 3 pairs Coldmeece 6 pairs, probably all failed Cotes Heath 7 pairs Cuckoo Bank 6 pairs Denstone Hall 1 pair Doley Common 6 pairs, all failed Doxey 18 pairs, 14 flooded out/failed; four, three, two and one juveniles fledged Draycott Quarry 1 pair Drayton Bassett Pits 2 pairs, both failed Drystone Edge 1 pair Dunwood 1 pair Ellenhall 1 pair Enson 1 pair Essington 5-6 pairs Flash 10 pairs, one juvenile fledged Foker Grange 1 pair Forton 1 pair Fradley 2-3 pairs Goldsitch Moss 3 pairs, all failed Goosemoor Green 1 pair Grindon Moor 1 pair with 3 well grown chicks Hatton Bogs 1 pair Hixon Airfield 4 pairs Hulme 3 pairs Keele (Yew Tree Farm) 3 pairs Keele University 8 pairs, one pair fledged 4 young Knotbury 3 pairs Lichfield (west) 5 pairs Little Stoke 2 pairs Middleton Lakes 1 pair fledged young Milford Bridge 2 pairs Millmeece 4 pairs Morridge Top 10 pairs, all failed due to predation Needwood Forest area 14-20 pairs, all failed Norbury Manor 1-2 pairs Onecote 2 pairs, one juvenile fledged Orchard Common 2-3 pairs Oxensitch 2 pairs

80 Park House Farm 4 pairs Ranton 3 pairs Readyleach Green 4 pairs Reapsmoor 3 pairs, all failed River Sow Meadows 5 pairs, all probably failed Round Knowl Farm 5 pairs bred, one juvenile fledged Silverdale Colliery 1 pair probably fledged 2 young Stableford 4 pairs, one juvenile fledged Swallow Moss 4 pairs all failed Swynnerton 4 pairs The Bent 1 pair failed Tittesworth 1 pair Tixall Bridge 1 pair, one juvenile fledged Trent Valley, Colwich 4 pairs with 6 well grown young Trentham Golf Course 4 pairs Weston 3 pairs Weston Jones Mill 5 pairs Whitemoor Haye 4–10 pairs Whitmore Bent Lane 12 pairs, possibly one or two juveniles fledged Woodhead 2 pairs, probably failed Larger counts from untabulated sites came in January from Colton (100), Fullmoor Wood (100), Kingswood (290) and Lower Hatton (150); in February from Bednall (100), Camp Farm (235), Gailey (50), Hanchurch Woods (85), Wolseley Park (100); in August from Penk ridge Airfield (100); in September from Doveridge (100), Hazelstrine (80) and Rudyard Lake (300); in October at Bury Bank (100) and Hollybush Centre (200); in November at Ellenhall (90), Iverley Lane (60) and National Memorial Arboretum (400); in December at Bottom House (180), Caltonmoor (80), Crakemarsh (86), Dove Bridge (100) and Enson (80). W Mid Birds bred at Blythe Valley CP (at least eleven pairs, with at least six young noted), Dunstall Park Lake (two pairs, both unsuccessful), Marsh Lane NR (at least seven pairs, mostly double-brooded, fledged up to eight young) and Sandwell Valley. Also present in the breeding season at Earlswood and Park Lime Pits. Other peak counts included 90 at Blythe Valley CP on January 22nd, about 50 near Dorridge on June 14th and 800 at Curd worth on December 18th. Also noted at Aldridge Airport, Coundon Wedge, Penn and Smestow Valley. The estimated 2000 at Marsh Lane NR on January 11th was a site record count.

Red Knot Calidris canutus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks No records. The last blank year was 1986. Worcs An adult in winter plumage at Throckmorton Lagoons on July 9th, was followed by a juvenile at the same site on August 20th and one was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on October 4th. Staffs This year there were just seven birds, unlike last year’s 84 birds. The first arrived at Belvide on February 25th, staying until March 1st. The remainder were all at Blithfield: two flew through on May 7th, singles on July 31st and August 2nd, a moulting adult on 14th and a juvenile on 19th-21st. W Mid One visited Sandwell Valley in March per MWe.

Sanderling Calidris alba Uncommon passage migrant. Rare in winter. Warks On spring passage singles were noted at Draycote on April 22nd, May 7th, 23rd and 28th, and June 3rd. The only other record was of one photographed on the new scrape

81 at Toft Farm Lakes, Kites Hardwick on May 17th. On return passage singles were at Salford Priors GP on August 13th and Kingsbury on 15th. Worcs Three were at Upton Warren on May 15th and 16th, whilst two were at Upper Bittell on August 1st and one on 18th. Staffs A good year, with 52 birds in total. Spring passage commenced in April with two at Chasewater on 21st and singles at Drayton Bassett Pits and Whitemoor Haye on 22nd. In May there was one at Blithfield and two at Belvide on 7th, one at Whitemoor Haye on 13th-14th rising to three on 15th, one at Chasewater on 14th-15th, one at Drayton Bassett Pits on 15th joined by another on 16th, two at Blithfield on 19th rising to nine on 20th, with one remaining until 21st, one at Barton GP on 19th-21st, Chasewater on 20th and two at Belvide on 22nd. In June there were three at Whitemoor Haye on 7th, three at Belvide on 12th and a summer-plumaged bird at Blithfield from 14th-16th. Autumn passage commenced on August 2nd with one at Belvide, five at Blithfield, one at Chasewater and two at Tittesworth; the Chasewater bird remained to 3rd when two new birds arrived at Blithfield, followed by three at Belvide on 5th, one at Blithfield on 15th and 20th, then a juvenile at Belvide from 30th until September 1st. Finally, singles were present at Belvide on September 16th and Blithfield on October 2nd. W Mid Single birds visited Marsh Lane NR on May 19th and November 27th per NPB.

Little Stint, Draycote, Steve Seal Little Stint Calidris minuta Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring and winter. Warks The only reports concerned a juvenile which stayed at Draycote from September 23rd-October 4th. Worcs Grimley New Workings hosted a juvenile from September 16th-19th and another two from 22nd-25th and finally one from October 6th-9th. The only other locality to record this species was Upper Bittell Reservoir, with five juveniles on October 1st and one was reported most days between October 2nd-November 3rd. Staffs No spring birds but good numbers in the autumn with many long staying birds. At Blithfield, a single on September 9th-10th was joined by another on 11th-14th with one

82 remaining until 21st. Then a superb count of 11 birds arrived on 24th, two of which remained on 25th, joined by another on 26th, these three lingering until October 2nd. Belvide hosted two juveniles on September 16th, joined by another the next day, these remaining until 23rd. At Chasewater a single bird was present from September 17th-23rd.

Temminckʼs Stint Calidris temminckii Scarce passage migrant, mainly in spring (9/10). Warks An adult at Salford Priors GP on August 6th JJB, was only present from 07.10- 07.30 before departing. Worcs An adult was at Upton Warren on June 22nd and 23rd AFJ, JRa et al. Staffs Two were seen at Barton Gravel Pits on May 7th many observers.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Scarce passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Worcs A juvenile was at Kinsham Lake on September 5th and 6th RAP et al. The first locality record. Staffs A juvenile at Belvide on August 24th-26th AGa, another at Blithfield September 15th-18th was joined by a second juvenile 19th-22nd GJM, then another two on 27th, one a female the other a juvenile GJM. W Mid A juvenile stayed at Pectoral Sandpiper, Kinsham, Andy Warr Marsh Lane NR from September 22nd-26th HJM, GPR, DJS.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Uncommon autumn passage migrant in variable numbers. Rare in spring. Warks Another very poor year, with just a single juvenile reported at Brandon on September 9th. Staffs A very quiet year after last year’s bonanza. Juveniles visited Blithfield on September 1st-3rd, 10th and 14th with another at Drayton Bassett Pits on 15th.

Dunlin Calidris alpina Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon ––522–3411–– Dosthill/Kingsbury ––1362164–77 Draycote 3411311573518 Ladywalk –––11––––––– Salford Priors GP ––251––1111– Bredonʼs Hardwick ––––1––1–––– Grimley New Workings 2–1115–31–211

83 JFMAMJ JASOND Gwen Finch Wetland ––––––2–21–– Kinsham Lake ––––4– –1––– Longdon Marsh ––––––12–––5 Lower Moor ––447–––––23 Throckmorton 22––––12–1–– Upper Bittell ––––1–123352 Upton Warren ––2311–14212– Alrewas GP ––––1––––11–– Barton GP ––10–5––––1–– Belvide 316612–45115135 Blithfield –––22572530932 Branston GPs 185214–3–2–6– Chasewater –––12––44532 Coldmeece Pools ––3–6––––––– Croxall GP –9––3–43–––– Croxden Quarry –––34––––––– Doxey 1–4261––5–2– Drayton Bassett Pits––224–12––11 Tittesworth ––––2–4–1–2– Whitemoor Haye 81384391–412–– Marsh Lane NR ––6719346––1– Sandwell Valley 1–––2––––––1

Warks There were also singles at Earlswood Lakes on May 14th, Shustoke on August 3rd, Wormleighton Res on October 26th and Longbridge on December 10th. The only double-figure flock this year was of 18 at Draycote on December 15th. Worcs Away from the tabulated locations four were at Ryall Pits on May 3rd and singles were at Bury End Flash on 19th, Saxon’s Lode on 21st and Croome River on 31st, whilst in August, three were at Ryall Pits on 1st, one at Lower Bittell Reservoir on December 24th and finally one at Clifton Pits on 27th. Staffs Data from a ringed bird at Chasewater on April 18th indicated that it had spent some time in Senegal. Untabulated records came from Crossplains on March 15th, Silverdale Colliery on April 3rd, Westport on 26th, May 8th and 18th, Silverdale Colliery on August 28th and two at Rudyard Lake on September 1st. W Mid At Dunstall Park, four were present March 15th and one was seen on May 13th. Nine flew over Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) on March 29th.

Dunlin, Draycote, Steve Valentine and Westport, Dave Kelsall

84 Ruff Philomachus pugnax Frequent passage migrant, though in variable numbers. Scarce in winter. Warks Single winter males appeared at Draycote on January 2nd, Alvecote on 23rd and at Draycote again from 26th-29th. The only spring bird was also at Draycote, on May 3rd. Return passage began late, presumably due to the unfavourable weather conditions. The first report was of two at Lawford Heath GP on August 23rd, with one there on 24th and 27th, followed by two at Draycote on September 4th, one at Brandon on 7th, two at Abbots Salford on 10th, and singles at Draycote on 11th and Ladywalk on 16th-17th. Passage picked up from September 19th, with one or two at Brandon on many dates from then up to October 15th, with maxima of three on September 28th, four on October 2nd, three on 3rd, five on 4th-5th, and four on 7th. Draycote also had two on September 19th, with one staying to 22nd, two more on 25th and one on October 1st. Two were at Lawford Heath GP on September 27th. The final bird was seen at Kingsbury on November 7th. Worcs A male at Upton Warren from June 26th-28th, was followed by a female at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 5th and a male at Longdon Marsh on 20th. Singles were at Grimley New Workings on August 5th and 24th, September 6th and 16th, whilst singles were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 18th, 21st, 22nd and from October 2nd-22nd. Further October records comprised a juvenile male at Upton Warren on 2nd and 3rd, a juvenile female at Gwen Finch Wetland on 10th and a male at Lower Moor on November 22nd. Staffs Monthly maxima at selected sites. Bracketed figures show total number of different birds each month: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide Reservoir –––––1–13(7)2–2 Blithfield Reservoir –––––––5(8)2–3(4)3(4) Branston GP ––––––2–253– Chasewater Reservoir –––––––13(6)1–– Untabulated records came from Drayton Bassett Pits September 15th, 18th; Doxey, a juvenile on 21st joined by another from 23rd-30th with one remaining on October 1st and two at Alrewas Junction Pit on October 30th. W Mid Single birds visited Marsh Lane NR from April 4th-10th and June 25th.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus Frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: September 26th (65) to April 21st (61). 8-year average: September 16th (–10 days) to April 20th (–1 day). First reported from Upton Warren on September 30th; the last being at Castlemorton Common on April 16th. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 222––––––114 Lighthorne Quarry 5667–––––21– Priors Hardwick 11–1–––––––3 Salford Priors GP 11–––––––532 Wasperton 21––––––––33 Kinsham Lake 283–––––––57 Upton Warren 123–––––1111 Berry Hill 2––––––––11– Branston Water Park––––––––––21 Chasewater 42–1–––––4210 Croxall GP 1––––––––22– Cuckoo Bank –––––––––3107

85 JFMAMJ JASOND Doxey 18611––––119– Silverdale Colliery 21–2–––––––– Dunstall Park 13–––––––1–– Marsh Lane NR 2211––––1–2– Warks Other reports during the early months included singles at Dosthill on January 2nd, near Earlswood Lakes on 5th, Draycote on February 1st and 4th, two at Alvecote on 12th with one there on March 1st, two at Coton on 5th, and singles at Coombe Abbey on 12th, Bidford-on-Avon on 17th, and Ladywalk on 28th. The last in spring was at Priors Hardwick on April 6th. Autumn passage began on October 1st with a single at Ladywalk, but most did not begin to arrive until mid-month. Additional records were of singles at Kingsbury WP on October 14th and November 4th, and at Wormleighton Res on November 9th. Worcs During January, six were at Castlemorton Common on 1st, with three there on 8th, three at Grimley New Workings on 7th, three at Ryall Pits on 8th, one at Lower Moor on 11th and 11 at Abberton on 15th, whilst in February singles were at Lower Moor on 7th and Abberton on 26th. Duos were at Ashmoor Common on 17th, Ryall Pits on 19th and Holt Prairies on 27th and finally six at Castlemorton Common on 19th. In March two were at Holt Prairies and five at Gwen Finch Wetland on 10th, with four at the latter site on 16th and one on 29th, whilst singles were at Abberton on 13th, Wood Norton on 22nd, Lower Bittell Reservoir on 23rd and Clifton Pits on 26th. In April three were at Abberton on 17th, whilst three were at Castlemorton Common on 16th and one there on 30th. Six were at Grimley New Workings on October 14th, with five there the next day and two on 22nd, whilst one was at Gwen Finch Wetland on 28th and six at Ryall Pits on 29th. Birds were present at Lower Moor throughout November, with peak counts being five on 4th and six on 8th and 23rd, whilst elsewhere singles were at Grimley on 3rd, Clifton Pits on 19th and 26th and Castlemorton Common on 25th. During December one at Clifton Pits on 2nd, preceded five there on 9th, four on 16th, two on 17th, four on 24th and one on 27th and 28th, whilst four were at Lower Moor on 11th and four at Abberton on 31st. Staffs Untabulated records comprised five at Bateswood on March 18th, one at Doley Common on April 8th, two at Belvide October 14th with one the next day, one at Eland Brook on October 18th and 29th, one at Denstone Hall on November 1st, one at Tittesworth on December 10th with two on 27th. W Mid Also, up to four noted Sandwell Valley in February and March, and singles at Goscote Valley on January 25th, March 15th and November 6th, and Sheepwash UP on March 25th and occasionally in December. Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Fairly common winter visitor and passage migrant. Frequent, though much declined, as a breeding species. Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon 11 11 117223225392212 Kingsbury 23 32 25 234–11145515060 Ladywalk 2666112321543 Lighthorne Quarry 11 11 10 25––11416125 Priors Hardwick 10 12 14 121––––61014 Salford Priors GP 13532––2633252418 Wasperton 101410––––––27795 Grimley New Workings –242–––––54–

86 JFMAMJ JASOND Gwen Finch Wetland 28 9 27 13 – – 2 14 10 21 14 12 Kinsham Lake 31017122–13––410 Lower Moor 20 16 1521––64496560 Upton Warren 21810111169521710 Alrewas 44––––––117– Aqualate 61–2––––52–3 Belvide Reservoir 23 24 37 21 – – 12 10 16 52 – 1 Berry Hill 18 5 293–––13643123 Black Bank/ Silverdale Colliery 59 47 62 34 ––––5102017 Blithfield Reservoir 612–––1336326–– Branston GP –30–––––610––– Branston Water Park1610––––––3–38 Chasewater Reservoir 3561––––26302852 Crossplains ––20––––––––– Croxall GP 1331–––3–1214– Cuckoo Bank 31–63–––312284 Doley Common 3 3 123–––24444 Doxey 310 174 82 22 – 4 9 28 297 848 307 307 Drayton Bassett Pits4––4–––7251113 Ingestre –––––––––8–13 Keele University –––9–––––––97 Pipe Green 1121––––21–1 Rickerscote ––––––––––15– River Sow, Baswich1–32–––––8261 Stableford 161911––––––25–– Swallow Moss 5–14–––––––– Tittesworth 5411–513553386017 Tixall Bridge –––––––341011 Wetley Moor 5–2––––––12– Other sites 2051815611–1411163 Dunstall Park 107 62 102 21 ––3229526876 Goscote Valley 3251–––––544 Marsh Lane NR 125764–222221103 Saltwells LNR 3565–––––––1 Sandwell Valley 13 34 37 15 21679242417 Warks Other breeding season records include a bird at Willicote on May 9th. Maxima away from the main sites included 18 at Knightcote on February 25th, 20 at Draycote on 26th, 17 at Fenny Compton on March 3rd, 25 in a marsh near Shustoke Res on 20th, 25 at Coleshill GP on October 1st, 20 at Fisher’s Mill GP on 2nd, ten at Napton Res on 13th, and 36 at Chapel Ascote on November 21st. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites twenty were at Castlemorton Common on January 1st, six at Longdon Marsh on 2nd, nine at Ashmoor Common and 45 at Ryall Pits on 8th, eleven at Abberton on 15th and 45 at Lower Bittell Reservoir on 20th. February records comprised fourteen at Castlemorton Common on 9th, five at Ashmoor Common on 11th and four there on 17th and 18 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 12th, whilst in March two were at Dagnell End on 3rd, 38 at on 5th, eight at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 10th and 20 at Holt the same day. Six were at Ashmoor Common on April 1st and three at Castle - morton Common on 16th, whilst one was at Ryall Pits on July 30th, with two there on August 9th and in September two were at Brotheridge Green Pools on 10th, two at were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 11th and one was at Castlemorton Common on 17th. In October, 13 were at Ryall Pits on 7th and 25 there on 29th, four were at Bredon’s Hardwick on 21st and six there on 29th, whilst in November one was at Castlemorton Common on 25th, 19 at Throckmorton Lagoons on 25th and 15 were at Clifton on 26th. Finally, in

87 December seven were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 3rd, with one there on 17th and two on 23rd, 15 were at Longdon Marsh on 8th, 20 at Clifton Pits on 16th and 24th, 27 at Throck - morton Lagoons on 23rd, four at Dagnell End on 24th, with six there on 31st, six at Castle - morton Common on 27th and 15 Abberton on 31st. Staffs An adult with a juvenile at Doley Common was an unexpected find on August 12th but it was unclear if they had bred there or flown in. Breeding probably occurred in suitable habitat on the North Staffs Moors, with sightings coming from Knotbury (four drumming), Morridge Top (one), Reapsmoor/Hayes (ten), Round Knowl Farm (one) and Swallow Moss (four). Three pairs attempted at Doxey, after none last year, two failed, the other had two downy young but there was no evidence that they survived. W Mid A site record 107 birds were counted at Dunstall Park on January 8th. Single figure counts were made at Sheepwash UP until March and again from September. One or two were noted in the Smestow Valley in March and April. One was at Blythe Valley CP on March 30th. In Coundon Wedge, up to three were noted from September 23rd and three were seen at Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) on October 14th. 2005 Addendum Warks More than one bird was drumming over a marsh at an undisclosed farm in the Preston Bagot district during the breeding season. The farmer has heard them annually there in recent years per GMs, Environment Agency. This is the first real evidence of breeding in the county since 1997. Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus Very rare vagrant (0/10). Worcs A juvenile frequented Upper Bittell Reservoir from September 25th-October 3rd KWh, LBD et al. This constitutes the second county record, the first being at Westwood Pool in 1990, and the third regional record. Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Frequent or fairly common resident and winter visitor. Warks Bentley Woods was again the only site in the county to report roding birds, with up to six there during May-June. Wintering birds were reported from 30 widely spread sites, with maxima of five at Brandon on January 7th, three at Napton Res on 28th, three at Ladywalk on February 1st and three by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on December 23rd. Extreme dates of wintering birds were March 26th and November 2nd, both from Brandon. Autumn birds were noticeably late to arrive this year presumably due to the exceptionally mild weather. Worcs Roding birds were noted along the Dowles Brook on April 30th. Singles were noted in the Wyre Forest on May 4th and Huntsfield on June 20th. Further roding birds comprised two at Wood on June 3rd, then one there on 6th, one at The Gullet on 7th and one at the Rifle Range on 17th. January records comprised two at Longdon Marsh on 2nd, two at on 4th and one at Abberton on 15th, whilst in February, one was at Throckmorton Tip on 7th, with two there on 17th and 24th, one at Castlemorton Common on 11th, one at Wassell Wood on 17th and three at Abberton on 26th. In March singles were at Cobblers Coppice on 11th, Abberton on 13th and Fish Hill on 29th, whilst six were flushed at Old Storridge on 13th, five were at Wood Norton on 14th and in April one was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 4th. During the autumn and second winter period, one was at Ipsley Alders on September 9th, followed by one on Bredon Hill on November 1st, one on Castlemorton Common and two at Old Storridge on 3rd, one at Upper Bittell

88 Reservoir on 6th and one at Grafton Wood on 30th. During December three were at Wood Norton on 3rd, whilst singles were at Feckenham Wylde Moor on 1st, Hurcott Pool on 10th, Croome Perry Wood on 24th and Castlemorton Common on 27th. Staffs Breeding confirmed at Coombes Valley (two pairs) and Needwood Forest (one pair, three young). Roding birds were recorded throughout Cannock Chase (the most being 13 at Abraham’s Valley), plus Blake Brook, Brackenhurst Covert, Hawksmoor (four) and Highgate Common (two). A good number of winter records were received, with regular sightings from Belvide, Bishop’s Wood (three), Blithfield (two), Byrkley Park (two), Chasewater and Hanchurch Woods (two). Also in January at Apedale CP (two), Crumpwood, Hatton Bogs, Meerbrook and Swallow Moss; in February at the Sherbrook Valley; in March at Berry Hill, Rifle Range (two), Rugeley Quarry, Shortwood Cotts and Tittesworth (two). No birds were observed from August to October; in November, birds were recorded at Baddeley Edge, Blithfield (two), Chasewater, Packhorse Bridge, Silverdale Colliery and Warslow Brook; in December at Aqualate, Belvide, Chasewater and Thorswood. W Mid Present in the breeding season in Sutton Park, with single birds noted on March 30th and April 27th, three on June 28th and one on July 1st, and one also on December 30th. Noted on Mons Hill CBC plot for the fifth year, the first being in 2000. At Sheepwash UP, there were single birds in January and February, and two in November. Singles were also noted at Cornet’s End Quarry on January 14th, along the between Cheswick Green and Stratford-upon-Avon on February 12th and March 19th, dead in the Smestow Valley on February 24th, Marsh Lane NR on April 1st (a site first) and Clayhanger on December 9th (the second record there).

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide ––152–12751111 Blithfield ––––5535261–1– Branston GP ––111–12––––– Croxall GP 111––––––––– Doxey –––11–192–––4 Whitemoor Haye 1131–––––––– Sandwell Valley –––––––133–– Warks Spring passage commenced with singles at Kingsbury on March 25th and 27th and at Brandon on April 8th. Kingsbury then had parties of four on April 17th and seven on 20th, while Brandon had an exceptional flock of 36 breeding-plumaged birds which spent three hours at the reserve on 27th. Two birds there on June 7th may have been early return birds. Subsequent records involved eight at Alvecote on June 19th, two at Brandon on 24th, one at Kingsbury on 27th-28th and two there on July 7th, when a party of 26 visited the eastern bund at nearby Dosthill Lake. Singles were seen at Abbots Salford on July 9th, Kingsbury from July 14th-18th, and Shustoke (the first here) from 26th-28th. On August 1st there were parties of nine at Kingsbury and ten at Brandon, with further singles at the latter site on 4th and 6th, and at Kingsbury on 9th and 16th-17th, with two there on 29th. The final autumn bird was seen at Ladywalk on September 10th. Singles at Brandon on December 1st-2nd and Kingsbury on 18th-19th were late. Worcs Spring passage commenced with singles at Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake and Lower Moor on March 25th and three at Throckmorton Lagoons on 29th. One was also

89 noted at Upton Warren on May 2nd, whilst two at Gwen Finch Wetland on 14th and 15th including a limosa race bird and one flew over Abberton on 25th. Return passage commenced on June 24th, with another limosa race bird at Grimley New Workings and one was at Longdon Marsh the next day. Numbers increased during July, with one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 4th, followed by two there on 5th and 6th, three at Upton Warren on 8th and 9th, with two there on 18th, 11 on 19th, a single from 20th-23rd, two on 29th and eight on 31st, whilst singles were at Gwen Finch Wetland on 13th, Grimley New Workings on 13th and 21st, with three over on 23rd having been seen earlier that morning over Westwood Pool, where they constituted only the second site record and finally one was at Kinsham Lake on 27th. August records comprised five at Upton Warren on 1st, with singles there on 6th, 8th and 10th, five at Kinsham Lake on 2nd and three further birds there on 3rd and 4th, An excellent flock of 21 was at Throckmorton Lagoons on 7th, one was at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 10th and two there on 17th, one at Grimley New Workings on 13th, with five there on 18th, two at Gwen Finch Wetland on 14th and a limosa race bird at the latter locality on 16th. A juvenile lingered at Grimley New Workings from 30th until September 14th and finally three were at Upton Warren on October 1st. Staffs Once again, some good-sized flocks were recorded, the largest being 52 flying through Belvide at 09:15 on April 23rd. Records of untabulated birds include Barton GP on January 15th, Alrewas Junction Pit on February 5th, Croxall GP on March 11th (flew here from Whitemoor Haye), at Drayton Bassett Pits (two) on 25th, Dilhorne Dale on April 8th-9th, at Doley Common (eight) on 19th with three remaining until 22nd, two at Barton GP on May 7th GP, 14 at Coldmeece on 21st, 10 at Westport on July 5th, 25 at Tittesworth on 7th, three at Gailey on August 15th, three at Chasewater on 17th and one flying west over Gailey on 23rd. W Mid Single birds were at Ryders Mere on April 27th and Marsh Lane NR on July 15th and August 3rd, with four at Dunstall Park on June 17th-18th and two at Fens Pools on July 5th.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks Spring reports involved three at Kingsbury and one at Draycote on April 20th, with further singles at Brandon on May 1st and Kingsbury on 5th. In autumn, there were four at Draycote and nine at Kingsbury on September 16th, with one still present at the latter site on 17th. Worcs Just one record, but an excellent count, when five visited Upton Warren on May 1st. Staffs Just eight birds this year, down from 15 and 13 in the previous two. On spring passage, records comprised singles at Belvide on May 1st and Drayton Bassett Pits on 5th, four at Coldmeece and one at Chasewater on 7th – one of the Coldmeece birds remaining until 9th. On return passage one was seen at Belvide on August 1st.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Frequent passage migrant. Warks The total of just thirteen birds was the lowest since the exceptionally poor year of 1999, presumably due to the fine weather conditions at peak passage times. Spring passage accounted for most records, with two flying north over Kingsbury on April 21st, one north at Birchmoor on 29th, and singles over Draycote on 30th and Brandon on May 1st. A tired bird spent half the day at Shustoke on May 5th, with further singles resting on

90 the East Marsh Pool at Brandon on 6th and 12th. Finally, single birds were seen heading north over the Fenny Compton Hills on May 9th and 14th. The only return records involved one circling during a shower at Shustoke on August 17th, and singles at Kingsbury on 26th and Draycote on September 7th. Worcs Spring records comprised singles at Lower Moor on April 27th and May 8th, four at Ryall Pits on May 1st, one at Eckington Meadows on 7th and singles at Upton Warren on 9th and 27th. Return passage saw singles over Upton Warren on July 9th, and calling at 23.15hr on 12th, whilst two flew over Little Comberton on August 8th and another one flew over on 17th. Staffs A reasonable year: in spring 41 birds passed through the county (cf. 34 in 2005, 22 in 2004) and in autumn, six (cf. 10 in 2005, 50 in 2004). Early arrivals dropped in at Blithfield on April 2nd and Tittesworth on 8th, the main passage starting with two at Blithfield and one a Belvide on 21st, ten through Belvide on 22nd, singles at Cheadle (JCB Factory) and Whitemoor Haye on 23rd, three at Blithfield on 26th, a single at Belvide on 30th, singles at Ellenhall and Whitemoor Haye on May 1st, three at Blithfield on 2nd, singles at Belvide on 3rd and Blithfield 5th, six at Tittesworth on 6th, four through Blithfield on 7th, singles at Whitemoor Haye on 10th-14th and Belvide on 28th. Return passage was quieter with singles at Blithfield on July 23rd and 30th, Belvide and Tittesworth on August 20th, Belvide on 31st and Chasewater on September 2nd. Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Fairly common summer resident and passage migrant. Frequent in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Ladywalk/Lea Marston 2 5 11521999741 Upton Warren 26 37 32 9 2 28 90 52 50 50 32 25 Aqualate –12––1–––––– Belvide Reservoir –1138222611–– Blithfield Reservoir ––14–3273––– Branston GP 2411––41012161614– Coldmeece Pools ––2214–––––– Doley Common –27––45––––– Keele ––11–21––––– Reapsmoor ––24–10–––––– Revidge ––32–5–––––– Silverdale Colliery ––311––––1–– Swallow Moss ––24–1–––––– Tittesworth Reservoir–230328410556–––– Woodhead ––142––––––– Warks Pairs were present in the breeding season at: Baginton (the first time in this area for some years), Kingsbury, Morton Bagot, Polesworth, Preston-on-Stour, Studley, Tysoe and Willicote. Birds were noted at a further 20 sites during the year, mainly in spring and summer but distributed in all months apart from January and February. The only reports of more than three birds involved six flying over Salford Priors GP on June 24th and a party of around 12-15 over Brandon on October 17th. Worcs Records during the breeding season comprised a pair at Lower Moor, which may have bred locally, a pair at Powick Ham and a pair nested at Sneads Green, whilst a pair at Eckington fledged two young and singing/displaying birds were also noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 26th, Shenstone on April 13th, Little Comberton on May 6th and Old Storridge on 28th and 29th. Other records comprised six at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 5th, with one there on 12th and five on 19th and 25th, whilst one was at Stoke Bliss on

91 11th and two at Grimley New Workings on 13th. In April, two were at Bredon’s Hardwick and five at Grimley New Workings on 9th, one at Ayton’s Heath on 17th, Kinsham Lake on 29th and Nash End on 30th, whilst in May singles were at Bury End Flash on 3rd and 19th, Upper Arley on 4th, Bredon’s Hardwick on 14th and Ripple Marsh on 20th and two were at Gwen Finch Wetland on June 11th. Staffs A count of 303 birds at Tittesworth on March 19th was a site record. This year, breeding was confirmed at Doley where two pairs bred locally, producing one fledgling. Two pairs were present at Orchard Common, one pair acting as though guarding young. In total, 64-65 pairs were recorded breeding, calling or displaying (cf. 59-61 in 2005, 102 in 2004), predominantly on the North Staffs Moors: Biddulph Moor (two), Boarsgrove, Byrkley Park, Calton Moor (three), Doxey (one – failed at egg stage due to flooding), Drystone Edge (two), Dunwood Bank, Enson, Flash, Goldsitch Moss (six), Gradbach Hill (one-two), Grindonmoor Gate, Gun Hill (two), High Offley, Hulme (two), Knotbury (two), Lady Edge (two), Lower Elkstone (two), Lower Hatton, Manifold Valley, Marchington (three), Morridge Top, Musden Low (two), Onecote (two), Oxbatch (two), Oxensitch (two), Readyleach Green (three), Reapsmoor (two), Rue Barn Farm, Swallow Moss (three), Three Shires Head (two), Turn Edge (two), Warslow Brook, Wetton, Whittington Common and Woodhead (two). Wintering/passage birds in the early months were recorded at 21 untabu - lated sites, with larger counts of 22 at Barton GP on January 6th and 115 at Longsdon Mill Pond on March 17th. In the autumn/late winter period, recorded at just six untabulated sites. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, single birds were noted on March 11th, 22nd and 31st, with two on 15th, one on April 1st, two on 18th and singletons again on 23rd, May 5th and 26th, June 15th and 22nd, and October 12th. Single birds were noted at Sandwell Valley in March and April, and flying over Goscote Valley on April 11th, with two over Dunstall Park on June 26th.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Uncommon passage migrant, very rare in winter. Warks A bird in partial breeding plumage at Salford Priors GP on May 16th GDL was the first record for the locality. Worcs Another poor year with two short-staying individuals: a summer-plumaged bird at Upton Warren on May 2nd and a juvenile at Westwood Pool on September 9th. Staffs A juvenile at Blithfield on August 4th was joined by another on 8th, both remaining until 23rd. An adult then arrived there on 29th, staying until September 3rd.

Common Redshank Tringa totanus Frequent passage migrant and summer resident. Uncommon winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon – – 4 10651––––– Dosthill/Kingsbury 356735–1––55 Draycote 1––1––1–1––1 Ladywalk ––2221–––––– Salford Priors GP ––26421––––– Bredonʼs Hardwick ––1321–––––– Grimley New Workings ––142–11––11 Gwen Finch Wetland ––25354––––– Kinsham Lake ––34774–1–––

92 JFMAMJ JASOND Lower Moor ––1321–––––– Throckmorton – – 111–1–––– Upton Warren ––286511––1– Alrewas Pits –11–3–––––2– Barton GP 1031–2––––3414 Belvide 1–582212–––– Blithfield –113121031–2– Branston GP –124444–––2– Chasewater –––21––12––1 Croxall GP 236913111–11 Doxey 1–1013109––1–11 Drayton Bassett Pits232723–2–––4 Tittesworth –––––21––––1 Whitemoor Haye 1074104111––14 Marsh Lane NR 11976104–––––

Warks Six pairs on territory during the breeding season was a slight increase, but only one juvenile was seen. There were three pairs at Brandon, one at Kingsbury and two at Salford Priors GP. Away from the main sites singles were also noted during the spring at Abbots Salford, Coton/Lea Marston area, Kites Hardwick and Morton Bagot. One was seen at Earlswood Lakes on June 24th and 28th, while there was an exceptional autumn flock of 22 at Lawford Heath GP on September 14th. Worcs Breeding records comprised a pair at Kinsham Lake, which fledged three young and a pair at Gwen Finch Wetland that fledged three of four young. One was at Kinsham Lake on March 25th, and a pair at Ryall Pits on 26th and in May two pairs were at Bury End Flash on 3rd and six birds were there on 19th, whilst four were at Saxon’s Lode on 20th and two at Ryall Pits on 20th and 21st. Three were at Lickmoor Wetland on June 26th and a single was there on July 10th and 14th, whilst a juvenile was at Longdon Marsh on 22nd and finally singles were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on August 12th and November 13th. Staffs

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Breeding Pairs (Successful) 5(2) 13-14(4-5) 8(4) 8(2) 7(1) 9(1)

Once again, a very poor breeding year with just one pair with two young at Branston GP, one of which probably fledged. A pair with three young was seen at Doxey of which two fledged, but this was the only success where seven pairs were believed to have attempted – the rest being flooded out. A pair near Belvide produced two chicks but these were predated. An adult with a juvenile at Fauld on August 5th suggests breeding may have occurred nearby. Despite breeding season birds being reported from Croxall and Whitemoor Haye, no indication of breeding was noted. Untabulated records comprised singles at Dosthill on January 24th, River Sow Meadows on March 12th and 19th, one at Burston and two at Coldmeece on 25th, one at Milford Bridge on 31st, two at Tixall Bridge all April, one at Doley Common on April 19th, two at Ingestre on 22nd, one at Kettlebrook Lakes on May 7th, two at Tittesworth on June 20th, singles at Tittesworth on July 8th, Westport on 20th and Tittesworth on December 28th. W Mid Two pairs probably bred at Marsh Lane NR, though only one was successful, raising three young. Single birds were noted at Sandwell Valley in April and May, Sheep- wash UP on April 9th and Dunstall Park on June 12th.

93 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Frequent passage migrant, rare in winter.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Brandon –––––11221–– Coton/Lea Marston ––––––112–– - Dosthill/Kingsbury ––––––1311–– Ladywalk –––––––22––– Salford Priors GP –––––1121––– Grimley New Workings –––––1–12––– Gwen Finch Wetland ––––––131––– Ryall Pits ––––1–1211–– Throckmorton ––––––131––– Upper Bittell ––––––1311–– Upton Warren ––1––––21––– Belvide Reservoir –––1111961–– Blithfield Reservoir ––––––81381–– Croxall GP –––2–––21––– Doxey ––––1–1––––– Drayton Bassett Pits––––5–4463–– Tittesworth ––––––13–––– Whitemoor Haye –––12–––1–––

Warks One at Draycote on May 21st was the only spring record. Return passage was typically extended with records from June 25th (Brandon) to October 5th (Kingsbury). Good series of records came from the tabulated sites, but with a maximum of only three at Fisher’s Mill GP on August 11th. Other single birds were noted at Earlswood Lakes from July 20th-22nd, Shustoke on August 5th and 15th, Alvecote also on 15th, Lawford Heath GP on 23rd and at Draycote (where usually fairly regular at this time of year) on only September 7th, 11th, 14th and 26th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, spring records comprised two at Kinsham Lake on May 6th, one at Lower Moor on 10th and two from 11th-14th, whilst singles were at Bredon’s Hardwick and Bury End Flash on 19th and Saxon’s Lode on 20th. Return passage birds were noted at Croome River, with one on July 25th, one was at Longdon Marsh on 27th, then two there on 29th and in August singles were at Westwood Pool on 6th, Lickmoor Wetland on 11th and 12th, Kinsham Lake and Pirton Pool on 13th, Grimley Old Workings on 14th, Birtsmorton Pools on 15th and Clifton Pits on 26th. In September singles were at Clifton Pits on 2nd, Grimley Triangle on 3rd and Grimley windsurfing pit on 22nd. Staffs First seen flying west over Berry Hill on April 2nd and last seen at Blithfield on October 22nd. Untabulated records came from Barton GP on May 1st and 13th-16th, Aqualate on 17th, River Dove at Fauld on July 30th and August 5th-7th, three at Chasewater on August 5th with one on 7th (heard calling at night) and 18th-23rd, two at Branston GP on 14th-19th, Aqualate on 19th, Rudyard Lake on 26th and September 1st. W Mid A good series of records at Marsh Lane NR: an early bird arrived on April 2nd, followed by other singles on 17th and May 4th, and two on June 1st; autumn passage saw three on August 7th-8th, six on 13th, one on 15th-16th, two on 18th and one on 28th and September 14th and 17th. Singles were noted at Sheepwash UP in May, Wren’s Nest NNR on July 10th, Sandwell Valley on 13th, with three on August 8th, and one at Dunstall Park on September 22nd-23rd.

94 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Frequent passage migrant and uncommon winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford 1111––4222–1 Brandon 1113159116221 Kingsbury/Middleton 112112754111 Ladywalk 1–11–1133221 Salford Priors GP 3453–711137666 Birtsmorton Pools –––1–––73––– Clifton Pits –––4––– 2311 Grimley Old Workings–––––––35115 Grimley New Workings ––––––644213 Gwen Finch Wetland –––––110111––– Kinsham Lake ––––––32 ––– Lickmoor Wetland –––––61291––– Longdon Marsh –––––31713–––2 Lower Moor –1–1–––1–132 Pirton Pool –––––––312–– Ryall Pits ––12–33433–– Throckmorton 2121––11–––1 Upper Bittell ––––––351–21 Upper Warren ––12–6129841– Belvide –11––253111– Blithfield Reservoir –––––1312––1 Branston GPs 3473––534312 Clay Mills ––––––––3–1– Coldmeece ––43–––––––– Croxall GP ––1–––131––– Doxey –––11–1–11–– Drayton Bassett Pits1134––265323 Elford Gravel Pits –––––––1––11 Fauld –11––––11––– Whitemoor Haye 1–––––1–11–– Marsh Lane NR –113116532–– Sandwell Valley –––1––34–––– Warks It was a better year than 2005 at the main sites. The last birds in spring were noted on May 6th at both Brandon and Kingsbury. Return passage commenced on June 15, again at Brandon. Away from the tabulated sites one or two birds were also reported from: Alvecote, Coleshill STW, Dray cote, Earlswood Lakes, Hampton Wood (River Avon), Hartshill STW, Kites Hardwick, Lawford Heath GP, Lea Marston, Lighthorne Pools and Quarry, Longbridge, Maxstoke, Morton Bagot, Packington, Seeswood Pool, Shustoke, Ufton Fields, Whitacre Heath NR and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites singles were at Green Sandpiper, Brandon Marsh, Steve Valentine

95 Defford Airfield on March 7th, Bury End Flash on April 27th, Grimley Triangle on September 3rd, over Lower Smite Farm on December 4th and two were at Lower Bittell Reservoir from 18th-29th. Staffs A bird was seen displaying at one site on April 12th but didn’t stay. Untabulated records came from Whitmore Bent Lane on January 1st, Baldwin’s Gate on 22nd, Dosthill on 24th, Baldwin’s Gate on April 13th, Doley on 15th, Tameside Nature Reserve “in August”, Tittesworth on August 19th-24th with two on 22nd, Aqualate on 25th and September 5th, two at Ingestre on 15th, South Doveridge on 17th, Ellenhall on October 13th, Alrewas Junction Pit on November 7th, Uttoxeter Quarry on 10th-21st, River Sow Meadows on 18th and Barton GP on December 24th. W Mid Single birds were noted at Dunstall Park on 13 dates from July 18th to October 25th, Bradnock’s Marsh on August 7th and Smestow Valley on October 28th.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Uncommon passage migrant. Has over-wintered. Warks The only spring record was of a bird at Brandon on May 11th. Singles on return passage were noted at Middleton Hall GP on June 21st, Lighthorne Quarry (the first here) on July 29th and Salford Priors GP on August 6th. Two were present at Shustoke from August 14th-17th with pos - sibly one of these birds also visit - ing nearby Ladywalk on 17th, followed by singles at Lawford Heath GP from 17th-23rd and Brandon on September 3rd. Worcs The only spring pass - Wood Sandpiper, Shustoke, Steve Valentine age record was of two at Lower Moor on May 10th RAP et al. Return passage saw an adult at Gwen Finch Wetland from July 8th-14th RAP et al, a juvenile at Longdon Marsh from August 10th-13th RAP et al, a juvenile at Grimley new workings on 28th BRS et al, and finally a very late bird at Upper Bittell Reservoir from October 30th-November 2nd CTh et al. Staffs Just seven birds this year compared with seven, 20 and eight in the previous three. In spring one lingered at Barton GP from May 11th-14th. In August there was one at Doxey on 9th, a juvenile at Belvide on 14th-16th while one at Blithfield on 19th-21st was joined by a second on 22nd, with one remaining until 24th. One at Belvide on October 25th was the latest ever record for the site and the first October record this decade.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Fairly common passage migrant. Scarce summer resident and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Abbots Salford –––31–232211 Brandon –––311232––– Dosthill/Kingsbury –––3323431––

96 JFMAMJ JASOND Draycote –––46–3 531–– Earlswood –––112232––– Salford Priors GP –––2463411–– Shustoke –––1211321–– Bredonʼs Hardwick – – – 111–121––– Grimley New Workings 11–22–1111–– Gwen Finch Wetland ––––––131––– Kinsham Lake –––22–221––– Lower Moor –––1––1 1––– Throckmorton –––1––552––– Upper Bittell –––12–63––1– Upton Warren –––3338311–– Aqualate –––2––1––––– Belvide ––1104591293–– Blithfield –––5431793––– Branston GPs ––––3132–––– Branston Water Park––––––11–––– Chasewater –––31–53211– Coldmeece Pools –––11–1––––– Croxall GP –––11232–––– Croxden Quarry –––1–––1–––– Doxey ––112–1––––– Drayton Bassett Pits–––53–1812–– Fauld (R. Dove) –––1–––1–––– Gailey –––22–542––– Silverdale Colliery –––52––––––– Tittesworth –––232873––– Whitemoor Haye –––72–6–2––– Wolseley Bridge 1–––––1––––– Dunstall Park –––32––1–––– Marsh Lane NR 11153–473111 Sandwell Valley – – – 1326421––– Warks Two pairs were present in the breeding season at Salford Priors GP. One pair reared two young from a nest situated in the overgrown rubbly banks of a lagoon, while the other pair was seen “alarming” in June in another part of the quarry suggesting newly- hatched chicks, although these were never located. This was the second confirmed breeding record at this site; the first was in 2002 although attempted breeding has been suspected in other years. Only a moderate passage was noted at the main waters, with particularly poor numbers noted at Draycote due to high water levels. Passage ran from April 9th (Kingsbury) to June 9th (Shustoke) and again from June 20th (Seeswood) to October 30th (Dosthill). Away from tabulated sites less regular series of records of up to three birds came from: Alvecote, Compton Verney, Coton/Lea Marston Pools, DMC Kine - ton, Ensors Pool (Nuneaton), Hampton Wood (River Avon), Kites Hardwick, Ladywalk, Lighthorne Pools, Napton Res, Packington, Seeswood Pool, Spernall, Water Orton and Wormleighton Res. Two wintering birds were present at the end of the year: at Abbots Salford (see table) and on a new pool at Longbridge on December 17th. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites singles were on the River Severn at Trimpley Reservoir on April 14th, Saxon’s Lode on 30th and Upper Arley on May 4th. Elsewhere singles were at Bishampton Vale Pool on June 18th, Abberton on July 4th, Croome River on 10th and 27th, Longdon Marsh on 14th, whilst six were at Hewell Grange on 10th and two were on the River Severn north of Upton upon Severn on 11th. During August singles were at Pirton Pool on 13th, Brotheridge Green Pool on 20th, Beckford Lakes on 22nd and two were at Westwood Pool on 25th. In September singles were at Brotheridge Green Pool

97 on 3rd, Beckford Lakes on 4th, Birtsmorton Pools on 17th and one was at Pirton Pool on October 10th. Staffs For the third year, Wolseley Bridge attracted a wintering bird – on January 14th but it didn’t return in December. An additional find at Bratch Locks on February 17th may also have been wintering. The first spring bird was seen at Belvide on March 28th and the last returning bird at Chasewater on November 27th, well after the previous one at Drayton Bassett Pits on October 3rd. Breeding was confirmed at Tittesworth where a nest with four eggs was located and later a family party with three juveniles. Untabulated records came from Westport on April 9th, River Sow Meadows on 13th-15th, three at Knypersley Reservoir on 15th, one on 17th, two on 30th, Tixall Bridge on 16th, two at Greenway Bank CP on 23rd, Alrewas Junction Pit on May 1st, Church Eaton and JCB North Lake on 2nd, Dimmingsdale on 8th, Uttoxeter Quarry on June 4th, Wolseley Bridge on July 8th, National Memorial Arboretum on August 3rd and Clay Mills “in September”. W Mid Having first been recorded at Marsh Lane NR on November 29th 2002, presumably the same wintering bird was present from 2005 into the New Year, but was rather elusive, being noted only occasionally until it was joined by the first spring migrant on April 12th. The last autumn migrant left on September 7th, for thereafter probably the same wintering bird remained till the year’s end. Single figure numbers recorded at Sheepwash UP in April, May, July and August. Single birds were also noted at Netherton Reservoir on April 20th, Sutton Park on 20th and 24th, Edgbaston Reservoir and Olton Mere on 27th, and Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) on August 6th.

Turnstone Arenaria interpres Uncommon passage migrant, rare in winter. Warks A poor year with just one bird noted on spring passage, at Draycote on April 21st. Return passage yielded four at Kingsbury on July 29th, five at Shustoke on August 6th with one there on 13th, and a single bird at Draycote on September 6th-7th. Worcs One at Bredon’s Hardwick from May 6th-9th, preceded another on 20th. Also a single was at Upton Warren on May 7th and 9th, whilst two were at Upper Bittell Reservoir on July 23rd. Staffs An excellent total of 37 birds this year, compared with 27, 50 and 24 in the previous three. May provided good numbers on passage, with individuals on the 7th at Blithfield, Coldmeece and Whitemoor Haye, then four at Whitemoor Haye on 13th, one on 15th, three at Blithfield on 18th, Barton GP on 19th, Tittesworth on 24th, Barton GP on 26th-27th increasing to two on 28th then four on 29th and back to two on 30th, Whitemoor Haye on 28th, Blithfield on July 21st, 30th, August 3rd, three on 11th, two juveniles on 13th-14th, two on 17th-20th with one remaining until 23rd, two on 28th, four at Belvide on 12th and a juvenile at Chasewater on 16th. Finally two late birds were seen at Chasewater on October 2nd and Blithfield on December 27th.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Rare passage migrant (5/10). Worcs A juvenile at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 8th was the first county record since 1999 RWa et al.

Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus Rare autumn and winter vagrant (2/10). Staffs On December 7th at 12.52pm an adult pale-phase bird came in over the dam at

98 Belvide and flew the whole length of the reservoir, attacking a Great Black-backed Gull in the process, before flying off in a NNW direction SNu, BWS. This is the ninth county record and the first since 1991, its presence due to the winter storms which resulted in many inland “wrecks” including the Leach’s Petrels.

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Rare passage migrant, mainly in autumn. Very rare in winter (8/10). Warks A dark-morph adult at Draycote on September 16th RCM was the only record.

Great Skua Stercoraria skua Rare passage migrant (5/10). Warks It was an exceptional year with three records in the county, all from Draycote. The first bird stayed here for just ten minutes during the after noon of March 27th MDB, MDo, before leaving to the east. Another bird was seen here briefly on October 30th TBr, while the third was much more cooperative and stayed from December 26th into the New Year TBr et al, being enjoyed by very many obser vers. Great Skua, Draycote, Graham Soden The latter bird had first been found by RCM on Christmas Day about 3.5 km east, feeding on a rabbit in a field just across the county border near Onley Prison (Northants). It was the first winter record for the county. Staffs A juvenile was observed for most of the day at Belvide on September 3rd RCl per SNu.

Skua sp. Warks An immature Skua flew in scattering the gull roost at Draycote during the late afternoon of November 30th JJB. Although almost certainly a Pomarine Skua, the brief views and poor light unfortunately prevented a firm identification.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor.

Mediterranean Gulls: Adult at Chasewater, Juvenile at Westport, Dave Kelsall

99 Warks Very few appeared to be in the county during the late winter period. An adult was in the Draycote roost fairly regularly during January 11th-February 9th, where it was joined by another adult and first-winter on February 6th. Perhaps the same over-wintering adult, now in breeding plumage, was at Draycote on February 22nd, March 1st and 15th and at Brandon on March 4th-5th. All other records came from the Tame Valley, with records at Dosthill of a second-winter on February 15th, an adult in breeding plumage on March 20th, a second-summer on 29th and a first-summer on April 10th. The latter bird was also seen at Kingsbury on April 5th and an adult at Shustoke on May 13th. Some of these records probably refer to visits from an adult and second-summer bird that summered on the Staffs side of the border (often in the gull colony at Dosthill NR), and the adult was seen again at Dosthill Lake on July 5th. Birds began to reappear in the immediate post- breeding period, with a first-summer at Napton Res on July 23rd and a second-year at Alvecote on August 14th. Earlswood Lakes attracted a juvenile moulting into first-winter plumage on August 24th, the first sighting ever from here. A bird in identical plumage was also seen at Kingsbury on August 20th and at Shustoke on 25th, where one or two first- winters were noted on many dates during September 1st-12th and a second-winter on 27th. A first-winter also visited Kingsbury on September 16th. Subsequent records from the valley were then concentrated in the well-watched Coton roost, with adults on October 24th-28th, November 6th and December 14th, a second-winter from December 14th-19th and first-winters on October 27th-28th and November 18th. The Draycote roost produced a second-winter on October 31st-November 1st, a first-winter on November 16th and an adult on December 1st-4th and 27th, while two adults and a second-winter were there on 29th. Finally, a first-winter was at Napton Res. on December 8th. Worcs The only sightings in the first winter period came from Westwood Pool, with adults observed in the roost on January 4th, 20th and 21st. Spring records comprised second-summer birds at Upper Bittell Reservoir on March 26th and at Holt Prairies and Lower Moor on 29th, whilst a first-summer visited Bredon’s Hardwick on April 5th. Upton Warren held a first-summer on June 18th and hereafter juveniles roosted on August 1st, 6th, 7th, 20th, 22nd-26th, 28th and 29th. Elsewhere a first-summer was at Kinsham Lake on July 22nd, juveniles at Grimley New Workings on 29th and August 7th and a juvenile on fields along Grafton Lane on 24th (Upton Warren bird). Upper Bittell held a juvenile on August 23rd, plus an adult on September 17th, 18th and 20th and a first-winter roosted at Upton Warren on 27th and October 2nd. During the second winter period Westwood Pool held a first-winter on October 31st, an adult on November 29th, 30th and December 1st, plus a second-winter on December 7th, 9th, 12th and 15th. The floodwaters at Upton- upon-Severn attracted a second-winter on December 9th and a first-winter on 16th. Staffs Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Belvide 011000211100 Blithfield 122210131102 Chasewater 234000011012 Dosthill 001101000000 Gailey 11––––––––11 At one site, two birds appeared to be sitting in June, but no eggs or chicks resulted and at another site, an adult displayed to Black-headed Gulls – perhaps the first indications of attempted breeding in the county. In the first winter period, up to four adults and a second year bird roosted at Chasewater, one of the adults also accounting for the sightings at Gailey and probably the occasional visit to the Belvide roost. A second-winter bird was

100 seen at Knypersley on January 29th, an adult at Weeping Cross/Baswich February 4th-6th, an adult at Drayton Bassett Pits March 22nd, a 2nd year bird at Dosthill March 29th, April 12th and June 30th, presumably also passing over Crossplains on June 22nd. An adult was also present at Dosthill on March 30th and five first summers with three second summer birds were seen in early May at Barton GP. Finally, an adult visited Tamworth on July 4th. Birds in late July through September were nearly all juveniles, possibly the same three moving around the tabulated sites above, with another at Westport on August 7th and 12th. In October, four different first winter birds roosted at Belvide and an adult roosted at Blithfield on 1st. November saw just one adult roosting at Chasewater, often visiting Gailey during the day – perhaps the same bird from Mediterranean Gulls in Staffordshire 2001–03 (orange squares) the year start. In December, at least three 2004–06 (dots) different adults and a first winter visited the two roosts at Blithfield and Chasewater, with a single at Westport on 4th. The map, which compares sightings in 2001-03 with those in 2004-06, shows a species which appears to be increasing its presence in the county. W Mid Sightings during the first winter period included single adults roosting at Bartley Reservoir on January 28th and March 1st and 5th TMH and flying over Cronehills Linkway (West Bromwich) on February 21st REH. At Dunstall Park, a second-summer bird on July 2nd was followed by single adults on July 4th and 15th, two on 16th and one on 27th, different adults on August 2nd and 3rd, and a first-winter on October 23rd GAC, KMC. Single adults were also recorded at Stubbers Green on November 10th PAJN, Sandwell Valley on August 15th per MW and over Wolverhampton city centre on October 20th GAC. A good year at Marsh Lane NR, with four or probably five different birds: juvenile on August 6th and 19th, first-winter on August 29th-30th, probably a different first-winter from September 18th-23rd, adult from 27th to October 1st and a first-winter on 14th REH, SHa, GPR, DJS. At Bartley Reservoir, first-winter birds roosted on October 18th and 27th, with adults on October 23rd and December 9th and 15th TMH. Single adults were also reported on playing fields at Summerhill School (Kingswinford) on March 7th and Stubbers Green on July 22nd.

Franklinʼs Gull Larus pipixcan Very rare vagrant (1/10). Staffs One was found in Tad Bay, Blithfield, at 20:00 August 9th MPR, RCB. It flew off shortly afterwards but must have roosted overnight at the deep end since it was present early the next morning again in Tad Bay, before flying off. This is the first county and second regional record – see page 221 for full details. Same size as Black-headed Gull, more compact and squat looking, jet black hood extending down the nape, prominent white eyelids, slate grey mantle, large white tertial crescent, large white ‘spots’ on the black primaries, thinner redder bill than Black-headed Gull and shorter legs than adjacent Black-headed Gulls too.

101 Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Very rare vagrant (7/10). Worcs An adult frequented sheep fields at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 7th and 8th AWa et al, then moved to the river flash at Lower Moor on the afternoon of the 8th GHP et al. Staffs An adult landed briefly at Tittesworth on November 20th WJB, ABr, KHo and could possibly have been the Carsington Water (Derbyshire) bird, which was seen from November 10th-December 23rd. This is the fifth county record and a site first, previous records coming from Westport, Chasewater and Blithfield.

Common Gull Larus canus Common winter visitor and passage migrant, principally to the south and east of the region.

JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell Reservoir ––––––11–313 Bredonʼs Hardwick – 13 105 150–––––––14 Kinsham Lake –226165––––446 Lower Moor 18 12 ––––––––215 Throckmorton Tip 526––––––––1 Westwood Pool 653–––111396 Bateswood – – 11–––––––9– Belvide 27–––11––4–2 Blithfield 201112–––12673 Chasewater 20 70 –2––1113210 Croxden Quarry – – 50––––––––– Stockley Vale ––12––––––––– Tittesworth 3661262–––2313075 Bartley Reservoir 887–––1––865 Marsh Lane NR 7 11 11 15–––11102614 Warks No counts came from the vast Draycote roost, but maxima during the first quarter in small roosts included 115 at Coton on January 6th and 124 at Brandon on 14th. The species was much more abundant on the eastern side of the county with Napton Res having a peak of 1500 staging on January 11th and up to 1000 were frequently on pasture in the area of Lower Shuckburgh and Calcutt. On sheep pastures further south there were peaks of 1300 at Priors Hardwick on March 9th and 650 at Wormleighton on 15th. There were still 144 at Draycote on April 26th with small numbers of immature birds remaining there into May, with the last two on 18th. A first-summer in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area on June 4th, 10th and again on July 5th was probably summering, while the first return was an adult at Longbridge on July 7th. Numbers apparently remained small until late October when the main influx occurred. There were no counts from Draycote, but at Napton Res numbers built up from 700 on November 29th, to 1000 on December 8th and 1800 on 11th. This increase was also noted further south, where there was a notable influx of feeding birds onto local pastures in early December. Maxima here included 600 at Fenny Compton on December 6th, 1450 at Knightcote on 13th and 1200 near Wormleighton Res on 31st. Elsewhere the Brandon roost had a peak of 142 on December 13th but only small numbers were noted in the Tame Valley, with a maximum of just 24 in the Coton roost on 16th. A leucistic bird was found in the Draycote roost on January 28th. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, Huntsfield held 75 on March 25th, one and two were noted at Upton Warren on June 26th and July 5th respectively, seven were at Holt Prairies on October 10th, six at Clifton Pits on 14th, 10 at Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham on December 11th and two at Kempsey Lower Ham on 21st.

102 Staffs Reported from 12 other untabulated sites. W Mid Singles were noted at Stubbers Green on January 13th and February 1st, with two on 5th. At Olton Mere, one or two birds were seen through March, with seven on 23rd, two on October 23rd, three on December 6th and four on 29th. At Dunstall Park, up to three birds were on noted three dates until April 21st and on 12 dates from October 17th. Very scarce at Sheepwash UP, with one in January and on March 12th.One or two were occasionally seen in Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley during both winter periods.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus Very common passage migrant and common winter visitor. Fairly common and increasing breeding species since 1986.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 380––––––––1100700630 Dosthill –––––82210220200–1100275 Bittell Reservoir 3 7 16 8 25 34 11 50 56 10 12 15 Bredonʼs Hardwick 3–692829191639–34 Grimley New Workings 3424326423238220 Kinsham Lake – – 18 165 60 80 80 25 26 12 44 32 Westwood Pool 2500 1000 300 2 20 5 30 250 700 1200 1700 4000 Aqualate 1300 2 350––1––8142822000 Belvide 2 4500 –––––––450183500 Blithfield 500––––––2010017043058 Chasewater 600 2000 700 170 15 – 35 860 980 800 7000 700 Doxey 7215157325821633 Keele –––80–––––1102000 350 Tittesworth 7 15 15 2 14 140 3 24 18 9 93 47 Dunstall Park 30 21 28 24 22 27 21 83 84 38 76 27 Edgbaston Reservoir 44 52 42 17 55 – 120––––50 Fens Pools 8461531364–172529 Marsh Lane NR 5 5 40 45 117 51 23 39 17 15 12 6 Netherton Reservoir 160 280 520 3 2 15 76 48 135 71 200 62 Olton Mere 14 38 – 42 – 22 53 – 62 – – 41 Sandwell Valley 15 11 15 17 17 25 6 3047712 Warks The only roost count from Draycote was of 3500 on February 21st. Counts at Fenny Compton of birds using the flightline between Draycote and the landfills around Banbury (Oxon) produced monthly maxima of: 335 on September 12th, 375 on October 8th, 320 on November 19th and 700 on December 5th. More casual counts of flocks feeding on farmland included 560 at Chesterton on August 29th, 115 at Ashow on October 12th, 300 at Ufton on 14th, 300 at Snitterfield on 22nd and 250 at Bishop’s Itchington on December 13th. Worcs Successfully breeding pairs recorded at Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake (two) and in Worcester, away from the city centre where many pairs breed, a pair fledged two young from a nest placed between to house chimneys in Barbourne. Away from the tabulated sites, Throckmorton Tip produced counts of 2500 on January 15th and 500 on February 5th and during December Longdon Marsh held 750 on 11th, 200+ roosted on floodwater at Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham on 17th and Throckmorton Tip attracted 2000+ on 24th. Staffs 125 at Ingestre on August 29th and 126 flying south over Shebdon (to the Aqualate roost) on December 3rd were the only other large counts. W Mid Birds bred in Birmingham, Tipton Green, West Bromwich and Wolverhampton. Also noted during the breeding season at Acocks Green, Fens Pools, Lutley, Portway,

103 Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park and Whitley. A total of 67 were counted in a newly ploughed field by Earlswood station on August 23rd. ʻIntermediateʼ Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus intermedius Warks The only reports were of an adult at Wormleighton Res on October 21st and two at Draycote on November 16th. Staffs At least one was noted in the Chasewater roost on September 11th GEv. (Baltic Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. fuscus) Warks A small slender white-headed adult with a coal black mantle, long primary projection and no visible primary mirrors was observed at close range at Draycote on November 16th JJB. It closely resembled a bird videoed at Farmoor Reservoir (Oxon) on October 21st (Birding World 19: 403) and may have been the same individual. Like that bird there was no sign of a post-breeding moult. Herring Gull Larus argentatus Common winter visitor. Uncommon in summer and an uncommon breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 65––––––––3342105 Dosthill –––––101013––7737 Bredonʼs Hardwick 9 7 5 121–2––––4 Kinsham Lake –4071818551––22 Throckmorton Tip 1000 2000 1500 ––––––800250 Westwood Pool 350 470 30–32250120100160400 Aqualate 200–1–––––––140 Belvide 12–2––––628–50 Blithfield 300–31–––––24710 Chasewater 325 386 – 202–1215901601700 Doxey 167–3–––1–1–– Dunstall Park 1141442–1–4613 Fens Pools 2126–––––––232 Netherton Reservoir1024221–1124–22 Sandwell Valley 54342232–329 Warks The only counts from the large Draycote roost involved 1000 on February 21st and 800 on March 1st. Other isolated counts included 37 at Bubbenhall Tip on January 28th and 450 at Ufton Tip on December 13th. Numbers counted at Fenny Compton on morning and evening flightlines between Draycote and the Banbury area landfills were well down this year, with not more than 100 in January-February and a peak of 200 on December 14th (cf. a peak of 750 in January 2005). Worcs No confirmed breeding records received, but present during the breeding season in Worcester City Centre, where 20-25 pairs nested in 2005. Small numbers were recorded away from the tabulated sites at Pirton Pool, where two were noted on February 12th, one on March 12th, two on April 8th and two on November 19th and December 17th, whilst at Upper Bittell Reservoir, three were observed on March 10th, four on April 11th, two on June 11th and nine on December 17th. A leucistic bird was noted at Throckmorton Tip on October 5th, 12th and 17th. Staffs The only other double-figure counts were 12 over Hanchurch Woods on February 13th and 14 at Drayton Bassett Pits on December 18th. W Mid A pair raised one juvenile in Birmingham city centre. Recorded at Marsh Lane NR in every month except July and September, with a high of seven in December. Noted

104 most months at Sheepwash UP, but mostly single figures. Away from the tabulated sites, other than 17 that gathered in a pre-roost at Olton Mere on December 29th before depart - ing southwards, only single figure totals were reported.

Lesser Black-backed x Herring Gull W Mid An adult was seen on a factory roof in West Bromwich on January 10th, 16th and 26th RH. It was white-headed, with the mantle colouration between that of Lesser Black-backed and Herring Gull in shade, but closer to the former; also size of the former. Legs at first thought to be straw-coloured, but in better light considered pinkish, particularly the feet.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis Frequent and increasing late summer, autumn and winter visitor.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 1––––––––343 Dosthill ––2––1711–54 Draycote 61211–15–5177 Throckmorton Tip 322–––21–443 Upper Bittell Reservoir ––––––11211– Westwood Pool 762–––––1344 Belvide 451–––124125 Blithfield 2–––––1––111 Chasewater 323–––152343 Whitemoor Haye –––––112–––– Other Sites 1––––––11232 Bartley Reservoir 326–––––26115 Warks Birds were present in the county in every month of the year, with the maximum at Draycote coming on July 12th. In the same month a distinct influx was also noted at Dosthill. Away from the main sites there were also early spring records of an adult at Long Lawford on March 6th, and a second-year bird at Knightcote on 25th and then at Wormleighton Res on 27th. Post-breeding records, mainly of adults feeding on farmland, comprised three at Ufton Tip on July 26th (which included a third-year bird), one at Fenny Compton on 31st, two near Wormleighton Res on August 7th, singles at Alvecote on 12th and Birchmoor on 17th, two at Chesterton on 29th and then singles again at Fenny Compton on September 12th and October 8th. Worcs Away from the tabulated localities, first winter period sighting comprised an adult at Trimpley Reservoir on January 15th, two adults at Lower Moor on 19th and 20th, an adult at Hurcott Pool on 20th and an adult at Lower Moor on February 7th and 23rd. A second-summer bird frequented Bredon’s Hardwick between April 30th-May 4th and an autumn juvenile visited Grimley New Workings on September 3rd and 11th. During the second winter period, Wildmoor Tip attracted one on October 9th, two adults on 27th and singles on November 8th, 20th and December 19th, Upton Warren held two adults on November 12th, then one adult on 19th and at Lower Moor, an adult was observed on the river flash on 21st and 28th. Staffs The records from “Other Sites” shown in the table, adults unless otherwise stated, came from Stockley Vale (first-winter) January 16th, Drayton Bassett Pits August 10th, Crossplains September 18th, Branston GP October 4th, Crossplains 18th, three at Coldmeece November 22nd, Branston GP (first-winter) December 2nd and Aqualate 4th. W Mid Another excellent series of records from Bartley Reservoir, starting in the first

105 winter period with up to three adult and single second-, third- and fourth-winters noted on 12 dates till March 26th. Birds returned on September 29th, where up to six adults and four immature birds were noted on 18 dates till the year’s end. Mostly adults were noted here during the first winter period and from early November onwards, with mainly immatures present during October. Through the second part of the year, 68% of sightings were of adults (over 70% last year). Also in January, single birds were noted at Trittiford Park on 24th and Dartmouth Park on 25th. A first-winter was at Dunstall Park on February 15th and one was in Coventry on March 4th. Single birds at Sheepwash UP in June, Fens Pools on July 5th and on August 21st constituted the year’s only summer reports. One was at Kings Norton Boys School on November 13th, a second-winter was noted at Olton Mere on December 5th and a first-winter was at Sheepwash UP on 10th. At Dunstall Park in December, perhaps the same first-winter bird was seen on 11th, 23rd, 25th and 30th, with an adult also present on 25th.

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans Rare winter visitor (7/10) Warks The only reports during the first quarter came from Draycote, with unconfirmed reports of an adult on several dates in January probably relating to the bird from the end of 2005, and then a first-winter there on February 11th RCM and an adult on 21st JJB. A good sequence of records from the Tame Valley was largely the reward of careful monitoring of the roosts by one observer. The first was of a first-winter bird at Coton from October 24th- 27th ARD et al, followed by an adult there on 30th ARD, an adult on December 2nd and 4th RLS et al, a first-winter at Dosthill on December 4th and 6th ARD, and then at Coton on 7th ARD, and a near adult (probably a fourth-winter) on five dates during December 6th-23rd ARD et al. Further records from this area were not supported by descriptions. Several reports also came from the Draycote roost but the only satisfactory record was of three adults there on December 29th JFCJ, RCM. Staffs

Year <2001 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Birds0304015

A second-winter bird was noted at Chasewater on February 10th PDJ, GEv, IWa, moving to Belvide the next day SNu. A first-winter bird roosted Belvide on September 3rd and 7th SNu. An adult bird, also present during the day at Stubbers Green in West Midland County, roosted on many occasions at Chasewater from November 2nd-December 26th GEv, RC et al. It was joined by a first-winter bird on December 11th-12th PDJ, IWa with the same or another on 30th-31st PDJ, JAl. W Mid Perhaps the same adult was noted at Stubbers Green on November 1st, 2nd, 4th, 8th and 9th, and December 9th-11th and 14th RCl, HKi, PJe, PAH, and also at the nearby Vigo landfill site on December 9th PJe.

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Scarce winter visitor. Warks A single adult was in the Draycote roost on January 12th JFCJ, RCM, and a first- winter on 13th CRS. Worcs The Westwood Pool roosted attracted a first-winter on January 27th WDu, SMW et al. It was seen to leave the roost early the following morning and visited both Hartlebury Tip GHP and Upper Bittell Reservoir RWa et al, that same day.

106 Staffs Just one bird this year, a juvenile in the roost at Chasewater from December 26th-31st PDJ, JAl et al. W Mid At Bartley Reservoir, an adult roosted on January 28th TMH and a juvenile was reported on January 28th-29th and 31st to February 3rd, but details were only received for February 2nd, when it was regarded to be the same bird seen in Worcestershire in late January TMH.

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Scarce winter visitor. Warks A first-winter in the pre-roost at Dosthill Lake on November 27th ARD flew off towards dusk in the direction of Coton. On November 28th presumably the same bird was found in the Draycote roost JFCJ, RCM, before being relocated at Lawford Heath Tip on 30th JFCJ, and then back at Draycote on December 4th JFCJ. Worcs A first-winter roosted at Westwood Pool on December 24th SMW et al and was considered to be the bird that had previously and subsequently roosted at Bartley Reservoir. It was also observed leaving the roost early the next morning. Staffs A juvenile was at Chasewater from January 6th-8th PDJ, GEv, IWa, another at Belvide on February 2nd SNu, with it or another at Aqualate on 7th PJor. In the second winter period just one juvenile at Chasewater on November 26th PDJ, JAl, RTh flew off at 11:50 eventually to roost later that day at Blithfield. W Mid An adult visited Sheepwash UP on March 10th DWa. A juvenile was observed in the roost at Bartley Reservoir most nights and occasionally in the morning from December 18th-30th TMH, HKi and reportedly flew to Frankley Reservoir on the last evening.

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Fairly common winter visitor, scarce in summer. Rare breeding species.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Throckmorton Tip 521–––––––35 Westwood Pool 92–––––1–––2 Aqualate 411–––––1111 Belvide 4–––––––1–17 Blithfield 5––––––––111 Chasewater 70 75–––––––120155 Doxey 213–––––––––– Bartley Reservoir 5–11––––1144 Warks The only sizeable counts came from the Draycote roost, with 70 on February 21st, 40 on March 1st and 120 on November 30th. Unfortunately there were no mid-winter estimates from there when the largest numbers are generally present. It was a poor year elsewhere with no more than four together reported in the Tame Valley, where the species has declined. No more than four were also noted on the Fenny Compton flightline (cf. a peak of 43 in 2005). Five over Salford Priors GP on December 17th was a good record from the south-west. Worcs Away from the tabulated sites, three were at Wildmoor Tip on January 17th, two at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 18th, one at Lower Moor on February 12th and a pair arrived at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 19th. Singles or pairs continued to frequent Bredon’s Hardwick until July 31st, but no breeding attempt was made. Singles were also observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on May 29th and December 27th and at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 12th.

107 Staffs No more than four birds reported from six other sites. At Belvide, the aggressive bird showing a taste for ducks returned on September 29th for its third year, killing a Ruddy Duck on 30th. W Mid In February, four flew over Smestow Valley towards Pool Hall on 14th and one headed eastwards over Dunstall Park on 19th. At Marsh Lane NR, the only record involved an adult that flew east on April 29th. Later in the year, two flew over Smestow Valley on October 29th, and at Dunstall Park in November, six went over on 5th and one was noted on 30th. Single birds flew over Reedswood Park on December 12th and West Bromwich on 19th. A scarce winter visitor to Sheepwash UP.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla Uncommon passage migrant and storm-driven winter visitor. Warks There were spring adults at Kingsbury on February 9th and March 25th, and at Shustoke on March 29th and April 30th. The few autumn records were confined to Draycote, with single adults on October 11th, November 13th and 16th, two adults on December 7th and then one on 8th. Worcs Spring sightings comprised an adult at Throckmorton Lagoons on March 8th and a first-summer at Lower Moor from 29th-April 3rd. During the second winter period, adults roosted at Westwood Pool on November 17th and December 6th, whilst a first- winter was at Eckington Bridge on 7th and an adult roosted on floodwater at Upton-upon- Severn Southern Ham on 14th. Staffs A total of 22 birds was recorded this year (cf. 37 birds in 2005 and 12 in 2004). A second-winter at Chasewater on March 10th was the first, followed by two adults at Belvide on 26th, another on April 11th, one at Cannock Tip on 19th, Tittesworth and Westport on 30th, an adult through Blithfield on May 7th, then another on August 13th, Belvide on September 10th and 16th, a first-winter at Blithfield on 25th, an adult at Belvide on October 10th, a first-winter roosting from 29th-30th, a first-winter at Doxey on November 19th, an adult at Chasewater on December 2nd, a first-winter at Westport on 3rd, an adult at Westport and a first-winter roosting at Chasewater on 7th, an adult at Chasewater on 9th and finally an adult at Belvide on 14th. W Mid An adult flew over Dunstall Park on March 1st, whilst at Bartley Reservoir, there were five adults on April 4th and one adult on October 23rd.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Warks The first record of spring passage involved two first-winters at Draycote on March 29th. This site then produced an adult on April 12th, a first-summer on 19th, another adult on 20th, followed by four on 22nd, three on 24th and a final first-summer from May 2nd-4th. On April 16th there were also two adults at Shustoke, with an adult at Earlswood Lakes on 17th, a first-summer at Kingsbury on 18th, an adult at Brandon on 22nd and three more at Earlswood on 24th. On April 29th a first-summer appeared at Alvecote and an adult and first-summer at Kingsbury, with the last-named bird staying to May 3rd. On May 2nd it was joined by a second first-summer and on the same day an adult put in an appearance at Shustoke. The final spring birds involved single first-summers at Earlswood on May 13th and Kingsbury on June 7th. On return passage there were single first-winters at Draycote on September 11th and Abbots Salford Pool (the first here) on 12th, with an adult at Shustoke on October 11th. An exceptional record consisted of a party of five (four adults and a first-winter) hawking insects over the Oxford Canal at Fenny

108 Compton on October 16th JJB, the first record for this part of the county. In December, Draycote had a first-winter on 1st, a party of six roosting on 26th and one first-winter on 27th. An adult at Napton Res on December 31st completed a fairly modest year for this species. Worcs An adult roosted at Westwood Pool on January 9th and 10th, a first-summer and an adult were at Upton Warren on May 4th and a first-summer at Lower Bittell Reservoir on 14th. During the autumn an adult visited both Grimley New Workings and Westwood Pool on August 5th and was still at Westwood the following day, whilst a moulting juvenile was reported from Upper Bittell reservoir on 12th, 15th-20th and 23rd. Staffs Another good year. In the first winter period two adults visited Belvide on January 11th. A first-winter at Blithfield on March 27th was joined by another from 28th- 29th. On April 1st an adult and a first-winter bird arrived, joined by another first-winter for the next two days and joined by a fourth bird on the 4th. After these, another first- winter on 10th, then an adult and first-winter on 20th, the adult lingering until 24th; then two first-summers on 29th joined by another on 30th, one remaining from 31st until May 1st. Records of other spring birds include: April 19th at Little Gull, Westport, Dave Kelsall Aqualate (adult), May 16th at the River Trent Croxall (one), June 11th at Barton GP, moving to Whitemoor Haye the next day. Return passage commenced shortly after on July 11th at Gailey (immature), Belvide 14th-15th (adult), August 12th at Tittesworth (second-year), 29th at Blithfield (first- winter), September 12th at Gailey (juvenile), 13th at Belvide and Chasewater, then first- winters on 27th at Chasewater, October 2nd at Westport, 11th at Chasewater, 16th at Essington Quarry Pool and 16th-18th at Belvide. Finally an adult visited Belvide on the late date of December 28th. W Mid An adult was noted at Bartley Reservoir on October 24th TMH.

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Frequent breeding bird in Staffs and north Warks and rarely in Worcs.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Coton 6500––––––––4000 3200 3000 Bittell Reservoir 341137140––2110241211290237252 Bredonʼs Hardwick 73 7 73–––159–12370 Grimley New Workings 36 20 303––704011013148250 Kinsham Lake 52710–8–68466020 Throckmorton Tip 3000 3000 2500 ––––––––– Upton Warren 330 137 345 45 34 140 420 800 930 170 550 271 Westwood Pool 3000 1000 1000 1 3 3 76 300 500 1000 4000 5000 Alrewas 70 50––––––4060300–

109 JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 2500 27 800 37 4024212650151500 Belvide – 1 3000 – – – 20 300 – – 134 4000 Berry Hill 50––––––40–20060– Blithfield 10000 1 200 500 – – 96 1600 2000 3000 1150 900 Burton-on-Trent –170–101––––––9044 Chasewater 1000011000 7200 80 15 – 1020 2600 5000 7000 7000 9000 Doley Common 300 – 300––––––––– Dosthill –1000––400550–––––– Doxey 233 262 180 15 17 2 140 104 96 161 453 150 Fauld ––250–––––––750– Greenway Bank CP/ Knypersley 40061–––––––200–– River Sow, Baswich55–250–––202820070415250 Tittesworth Reservoir 2500 p 1500 p 8 4 30 26 60 66 140 2000 Dunstall Park 700 600 300 4 15 77 586 450 200 650 650 700 Edgbaston Reservoir 400 470 420 28 – – 73 20 – – 40 100 Fens Pools 315236313––12494749107315173 Marsh Lane NR 200 120 248 285 30 9 120 300 570 400 340 120 Netherton Reservoir200530700––160307840190156 Olton Mere 74030–9––––85–9601150 Sandwell Valley 550 500 160 30 15 80 500 50 60 94 500 400 Warks The main gullery at Kingsbury was again estimated at around 150 pairs, split between Canal Pool (where 163 chicks were ringed on June 14th) and Cliff Pool. The latter colony was flooded out on May 22nd and only 20 nests survived, but presumably many relaid. Counts from these two pools included 500 on May 2nd and 400 on June 7th, while 125 juveniles were counted on July 5th. Another small overspill colony (from nearby Dosthill NR, Staffs) was found in rushes at the northern end of Dosthill Lake, with 16 agitated birds and several nests noted. Elsewhere only two-three pairs attempted to nest at Brandon and none were successful. Outside the breeding season large counts during the first quarter included 1000 roosting at Brandon on January 10th, 2500 staging at Napton Res on 17th, 10,000 in the Draycote roost on March 3rd, 1700 on pasture at Priors Hardwick on 9th, 1250 at Dosthill on 12th and 2500 flying east at Brandon in two and a half hours on April 9th. In the early winter the Brandon roost peaked at 2400 on November 28th and 1500 were at Dosthill on December 13th. In early December a large influx of feeding birds appeared on sheep pastures in the south-east, with 800 at Fenny Compton on 6th, 1000 at Wormleighton on 7th, 3000 near Napton Res on 11th and 1000 at Knightcote on 13th. A leucistic first-winter bird was noted at Draycote on January 13th. Worcs Two pairs bred successfully at Upton Warren and counts away from the tabulated sites comprised 250 at Lea End on February 16th, 321 at Hewell Grange on November 11th, 2500 roosted at Upton-upon-Severn Southern Ham on December 9th and 16th and 1500 were on floodwater at Kempsey Lower Ham on 12th. Staffs Eight pairs bred at Aqualate Flight Pools (cf. 12 in 2005), but two more sites boosted the breeding numbers this year with 200 pairs producing 150 young at Dosthill and “many pairs” at Barton GP. A leucistic bird roosted at Blithfield on February 1st and probably moved on to the Chasewater roost on 15th-16th and again from March 9th-12th. On November 2nd an albino roosted at Chasewater. A first-winter at Belvide on February 18th with a white darvic 2C63 was ringed at Cotswold Water Park in 2005. Untabulated counts elsewhere included 150 at Westport on February 26th, 200 at Branston WP on 28th, 132 at Higher Lower Perton lakes on March 18th, 300 at Stockley Vale on 26th, 130 at Coldmeece on August 3rd, 140 at Batchacre Hall on October 15th, 138 at Weston Jones Mill on November 19th and at 750 Silverdale Colliery on December 14th.

110 W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, some interest in breeding was shown by sub-adult birds. Successive record counts were made at Olton Mere, with 740 on January 3rd, 960 on November 14th and culminating in 1,150 on December 29th. High counts away from tabulated sites included 212 at Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) on January 6th, 356 at Trittiford Pool on 14th, about 500 at Longmoor Pool (Sutton Park) on February 4th, 750 at Stubbers Green on 15th, 400 at Bartley Reservoir on March 4th, 230 at Ladymoor Pool on 18th, 280 at Sheepwash UP on July 29th, 120 in a newly ploughed field by Earlswood station on August 23rd, and 250 at Reedswood Park and 216 at Mary Stevens Park on December 16th

Sabineʼs Gull Xema sabini Rare passage migrant (3/10). Staffs A juvenile flew through Blithfield on September 24th MPR, GJM, becoming the eighth county record.

Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica Very rare vagrant (0/10). Warks The highlight of the year was an adult at Cliff Pool, Kingsbury on May 19th PAJN et al. This was only the third county record (within current boundaries), with the two previous birds having been shot at Wormleighton Res in 1876 and Coleshill in 1899.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Uncommon passage migrant. Warks An excellent spring passage with 11 recorded. The first bird was seen on several occasions at Kingsbury on March 26th-27th SLC, BLK et al, and was also apparently seen at Coton on the latter date. Two spent half an hour at Brandon on March 29th RBW, followed by singles at Draycote on April 8th RCM and Shustoke on 21st BLK. On April 22nd there were up to two present during the day at Earlswood Lakes JAC, JHS, while a bird flying south high over Birchmoor at 0630 on the same date RLS, had probably visited nearby Alvecote. Three at Draycote on May 2nd DCo, RCM were the last, with none reported on return passage. Worcs A strong spring passage commenced with four at Lower Moor on April 6th, three at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 22nd and two visited both Upton Warren and Upper Bittell Reservoir on May 15th. During the autumn, two adults at Upton Warren on September 4th, preceded another adult on 11th. Staffs On April 22nd, one visited Blithfield GJM, MPR, SAR and two were at Chase- water, then another was at Chasewater on July 24th GEv.

Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii Rare passage migrant (3/10). Staffs A large passage of terns crossed the Midlands on May 7th, including several Roseate Terns, resulted in one Roseate Tern, Blithfield, Phil Jones

111 being discovered at Blithfield GJM, MYa. This drew large, appreciative crowds, being the tenth county record and the first since one at Belvide in 1983.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Fairly common passage migrant. Uncommon or frequent as a breeding species, mainly in the Tame and Trent valleys. Long-term average: April 11th (22) to October 10th (22). 8-year average: April 8th (–3 days) to October 10th (=). A early first arrival on March 27th at Blithfield; the last to depart being, again, at Blithfield on the late date of November 5th.

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Bittell Reservoir –––41318251321–– Bredonʼs Hardwick –––12245–1–– Grimley New Workings –––2671582––– Upton Warren –––2441042––– Westwood Pool –––222451––– Alrewas ––––1561––––– Aqualate –––1166821–– Belvide –––34621152––– Blithfield ––16141015313511– Branston GP –––––22––––– Branston Water Park––––2–22–––– Chasewater –––24615122––– Croxall ––––15534–––– Doxey ––––2142–––– Drayton Bassett Pits–––552104–––– Gailey –––49–791––– Tittesworth ––––––2–11–– Whitemoor Haye –––64128–1––– Marsh Lane NR –––918242621–––– Olton Mere –––59254–––– Sandwell Valley –––1–4911––– Warks There was no accurate count of breeding pairs at Kingsbury, but it may have again been around 40-50 pairs. Ten of these nests were on Cliff Pool which almost all were flooded out on May 22nd, but seven had relaid by early June. At nearby Canal Pool 56 young were ringed in June (cf. 45 in 2005), so it appears they had a reasonable breeding season. Elsewhere, Brandon had an excellent season with 10-11 pairs rearing about 25 young (cf. only six pairs reared 11 young in 2005), while a pair attempted to breed at Alvecote. As in 2005 there was an early arrival, with the first birds noted at Kingsbury and Seeswood Pool on March 31st. The main influx began in mid April. Small numbers were seen at many waters in the north during the summer months, with maxima of 18 at Shustoke, 15 at Earlswood and 14 at Ladywalk. In the south up to three birds were noted at Compton Verney, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP, Weston-on-Avon and Wormleighton Res. Up to 30 were still at Kingsbury in early September, with the last bird there on 15th an early departure. Worcs Pairs bred successfully at Bredon’s Hardwick, Grimley New Workings and Upton Warren. Away from the tabulated localities, Lower Moor held one on May 15th, Arrow Valley Lake attracted two on June 25th, then one on July 9th and two were at Lower Moor on 12th and 15th, plus singles on 19th and August 21st. Kinsham Lake held an adult on August 9th, four were at Throckmorton Lagoons, plus two flew over Washford East on 15th, whilst a juvenile was noted at Kinsham Lake on 14th.

112 Staffs The first arrival was very early, on March 27th at Blithfield, then Belvide on April 11th, with the major influx commencing from April 16th. There was a very late juvenile again at Blithfield, staying from October 29th-November 5th. A pair at Belvide fledged two juveniles and of two pairs at Drayton Bassett Pits, one failed and the other fledged one juvenile. Particularly disappointing was an incredible colony of 48 pairs at Barton GP most, if not all, failing due to their island being flooded by quarry operations. A pair may also have bred at Kettlebrook Lakes but this was unconfirmed. The highest count of 35 birds passed through Blithfield in bad weather on September 14th. Other sites with single sightings were Hill Hook LNR, JCB North Lake, National Memorial Arboretum, Tamworth, Tutbury, Wolseley Bridge and Wyrley Common. W Mid At least 13 young fledged at Marsh Lane NR and a pair bred at Sheepwash UP, raising two young. Two were at Hill Hook LNR on May 8th and at Netherton Reservoir from June 7th-8th, with one on July 6th and August 10th. At Dunstall Park, one or two were noted on nine dates from June 9th to July 17th, two flew over Reedswood Park on 11th, two were at Edgbaston Reservoir on 24th and September 14th, and two were at Fens Pools in July.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Frequent passage migrant in highly variable numbers. Warks Spring passage opened with two at Alvecote on April 20th and a single at Wormleighton Res on 21st. Three at Draycote on April 22nd preceded counts of up to 54 there on 23rd and 41 on 30th. Two were there on May 2nd-3rd, 12 on 6th, three on 8th and with final singles on 21st and 23rd. Elsewhere there were also two at Dosthill Lake and one at Alvecote on April 23rd, one at Kingsbury on 24th and two on May 1st, one at Shustoke and two at both Kingsbury and Coton on 7th, one at Dosthill on 8th, one at Earlswood Lakes on 18th, and a late bird at Alvecote on June 4th. On return passage two early juveniles were at Draycote on August 1st-2nd, followed by another on 10th, two more on 15th and one on September 19th. A juvenile also visited Dosthill on September 1st, with an adult and juvenile at Kingsbury on 14th. An adult at Earlswood on October 6th-7th was followed by exceptionally late juveniles at Shustoke on October 22nd-23rd and again on 31st JHa, the latter bird which was the latest for the county within current boundaries, appearing after a shower. Worcs A reasonable spring passage recorded, with two noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 13th, four spent a few minutes over the sailing pool at Upton Warren on 18th and at Upper Bittell Reservoir, six were observed on May 1st, then four on 8th. Autumn sightings comprised an adult on the Moors Pool at Upton Warren on August 5th and 6th, whilst at Upper Bittell Reservoir one was reported on 13th, a juvenile on 24th, an adult on 26th and 27th, two on 28th, an adult from 29th-September 3rd, two juveniles on 14th and one juvenile on October 2nd and 3rd. The final record came from Westwood Pool, with a juvenile present on 6th. Staffs The first spring birds were seen at Belvide and Chasewater on April 11th, the last a juvenile at Chasewater from October 7th-13th, an adult at Tittesworth on 13th and a juvenile at Blithfield on 23rd. The major passage occurred at the end of April into early May with 19 on April 20th, 39 on 30th and a superb passage of 110 on May 1st. In detail, spring passage continued on April 16th at Gailey (one), 19th at Blithfield (one), 20th at Gailey (two), 22nd at Belvide (six) and Blithfield (six), 23rd at Belvide (two), Blithfield (one) and Drayton Bassett Pits (two), 27th at Blithfield (two), 28th at Aqualate (one) and Blithfield (three), 29th at Blithfield (19), 30th at Aqualate (three), Belvide (nine) and

113 Chasewater (27), May 1st at Alrewas GP (three), Aqualate (one), Blithfield (60), Chase- water (40), Westport (four) and Whitemoor Haye (two), 7th at Barton GP (one), Blithfield (one) and Chasewater (one), 19th at Blithfield (two), 23rd at Blithfield (two) and 24th at Belvide (one). A good return passage commenced August 2nd-3rd at Belvide (two), 2nd at Chasewater (12), 3rd at Blithfield (one), 5th at Gailey (one), 12th at Chasewater (juvenile), 13th at Blithfield (two adults, one juvenile), 14th at Westport (juvenile), 19th at Chasewater (one), 23rd at Belvide (juvenile) and Gailey (adult and juvenile), September 4th at Gailey (one), 14th at Blithfield (one), 16th at Gailey (juvenile), 27th at Chasewater (one) and October 4th-7th at Blithfield (juvenile). W Mid On April 30th, four flew over Tividale and three flew through Marsh Lane NR. An adult flew over Dunstall Park Lake August 17th.

Little Tern Sternula albifrons Scarce passage migrant. Warks A better year in the county, with eight birds being the largest total recorded since 2001. In spring singles were noted at Alvecote on April 22nd DPr et al and Kingsbury on May 2nd PDH et al, with up to three at Draycote on 3rd PDH et al. On return passage there was a juvenile at Seeswood Pool on July 29th NDBC and two adults at Kingsbury on August 16th LJD. Staffs A good year for sightings. One at Doxey Marshes on May 1st was a site first RSt et al. Singles at Blithfield on May 19th RCB, GJM and June 14th RCB, GJM, RSw; two at Belvide on May 22nd SNu with one on June 10th SNu.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Frequent passage migrant. Warks Spring passage commenced at Draycote with one on April 16th, two on 21st, one on 22nd, and then two again on May 2nd. A small influx on May 4th brought up to 22 at Kingsbury, 19 at Draycote, a total of 11 through Brandon, eight at Dosthill and a single bird at Alvecote. Subsequent passage was slight but included one at Draycote on May 6th; four at Kingsbury, two at Coton and singles at both Earls - wood Lakes and Shustoke on 7th; four at Dosthill and three at Dray- cote on 8th; and singles at Kings- bury and Shustoke on 11th. Late birds continued to appear in June, with seven at Kingsbury on 8th, one at Shustoke on 9th and a very late (or very early?) bird at Black Tern, Shustoke, Steve Seal Alvecote on 28th. Due to the weather conditions very few were seen on return passage until the second week in September, with the only birds at Draycote on August 15th and 22nd-23rd, when two were present. However on the morning of September 11th the largest flock to occur in the county

114 since 1997 built up at Draycote, peaking at 114 during the morning but dropping to 11 by the afternoon. Subsequently there were three there on September 12th, 29 on 14th, one from 18th-22nd, and one from 29th-October 9th. Shustoke also did well during this period, with three on September 11th, up to six on 12th, four on 13th, two on 14th-15th and three on 24th. The only others reported in the Tame Valley were two at Kingsbury on September 14th-15th. Finally on September 14th, three during late morning at Earlswood Lakes had built up to at least 25 by late afternoon. Worcs During the spring passage, Upper Bittell Reservoir held 22 on May 4th, then four on 8th, one was at Grimley New Workings on 14th, nine at Bredon’s Hardwick on 15th, then singles at Westwood Pool on 18th, Upton Warren on June 10th and Upper Bittell Reservoir on 11th. Reasonable numbers observed during the autumn, with a juvenile at Upton Warren August 24th, one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 27th and at Westwood Pool, an adult and juvenile recorded on September 9th, preceded a juvenile from 11th-13th, a party of 13 on 14th and seven on 22nd. Other September records comprised one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 11th, 10 at Kinsham Lake and 32 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 14th, one again at Upper Bittell on 16th and juveniles were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th, 19th and 23rd. The only October sighting came from Bredon’s Hardwick, with a juvenile present on 8th. Staffs In another excellent year, 14 passed through in spring and at least 113 in the autumn, peaking at 63 birds on September 14th. Spring passage commenced with an early bird at Gailey on April 20th, then another on May 3rd, 4th at Belvide (two) and Blithfield (five), 17th at Belvide, June 7th at Chasewater (two) and 24th at Blithfield (three). An early bird on return passage passed through Chasewater on July 26th, then a juvenile on August 15th-17th joined by another on 18th, on 16th at Rudyard Lake (juvenile), 20th-21st at Chasewater, 21st at Blithfield (two), 23rd at Belvide (two), 26th-28th at Blithfield (juvenile), 28th at Whitemoor Haye, September 9th at Blithfield (six), 12th at Belvide (11), Blithfield (17), 13th at Aqualate (15), Belvide (two juveniles), Blithfield (two), Chase water and Gailey (juvenile), 14th at Aqualate (two), Belvide (seven), Blithfield (15), Chasewater (12), Gailey (26) and Whitemoor Haye, 15th at Belvide (juvenile), Chasewater, Gailey (four) with two at Gailey the next day, 19th at Aqualate and Blithfield and a long-staying juvenile at Gailey staying from 19th until October 3rd, September 22nd at Blithfield. Finally, a very late juvenile was seen at Blithfield on October 31st. W Mid Two visited Marsh Lane NR on May 4th, one was at Sandwell Valley during June and an adult was at Fens Pools on August 5th. Single juveniles at Sheepwash UP on September 2nd and Olton Mere on 11th were the forerunners of a notable movement that saw nine birds at Olton Mere on 13th and 18 in Sandwell Valley and three at Edgbaston Reservoir on 14th.

Feral Pigeon Columba livia Very common resident in urban areas. Warks No large flocks reported, with the best counts consisting of 25 at Alvecote on February 8th, 30 at Dosthill on March 20th and 36 at Brandon on December 31st. Worcs No significant records received. Staffs 90 at Berry Hill on January 14th was the largest count. W Mid The only counts received of note were 21 at Aldridge on May 10th, 27 in Walsall Arboretum on August 22nd, 48 in Coundon Wedge on 9th December and about 65 by Wolverhampton ring road on 27th.

115 Stock Dove Columba oenas Very common resident. Warks The few breeding territory counts included six in Charlecote Park, three on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot (where there was one in 2005), and two in 40 ha of farmland at Oldberrow (cf. four in 2005). Outside the breeding season there were a good number of three-figure flocks this year, with maxima of 150 in a rape field near Wormleighton Res on January 4th, 250 at Dunnington on February 12th, 100 at Goldicote on 24th, 140 at Fenny Compton on March 11th, 120 at Umberslade on September 27th, 180 between Fenny Compton and Watergall on October 28th and 100 at Salford Priors GP on December 3rd. The largest flock was feeding in maize stubble at Abbots Salford during the autumn, where it built up from 250 on October 31st to 385 on December 17th. 59 were counted going to roost in Calcutt Spinney on January 17th. Single almost leucistic birds were again back at both Fenny Compton and Lighthorne Quarry on March 5th, where they remained throughout the summer paired to normal birds. Worcs Three to four singing males were heard along the Dowles Brook during the breeding season, several pairs were present during May at Stoke Bliss, three birds were investigating a tree hole in a mature Oak at Weatheroak Hill on April 28th and a pair was noted at Hollybed Common on June 4th. Seven visited a Malvern Link garden on February 24th and other counts comprised 89 at Longdon Marsh on March 3rd, 16 at Shenstone and 20 at Upton Warren on April 13th and 15 on Bredon Hill on 29th. Staffs A pair bred at Doley Common and probably two pairs at Apedale CP, one at Blake Brook, Greenway Bank, Hanchurch Woods, Revidge and Seven Springs. Recorded at just 12 other sites in May and June, including 22 at Blithfield on May 20th and 24 at The Mermaid pub on June 1st. Larger counts were recorded in January at Cuckoo Bank (31), National Memorial Arboretum (80) and Whitemoor Haye (25); February at Whitemoor Haye (16); March at Coldmeece (36) and Whitemoor Haye (16); April at Coldmeece (100); September at Belvide (23) and Coldmeece (40); October at Byrkley Park (20); November at Scotch Hill (50) and Weston Jones Mill (18). W Mid Six territories were recorded at the Mons Hill CBC plot – the same as the last two years and a slight increase on the average of 5.4 over the last 14 years. Also noted in the breeding season at Allesley Park, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reser - voir, Marsh Lane NR, Moseley, Nailcote, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Counts included 33 at Marsh Lane NR in February, 20 at Aldridge on March 21st, an impressive 144 at Wiggins Hill on April 25th, 18 migrating with Wood Pigeons over Smestow Valley on October 29th and 25 at Marsh Lane NR in December. Also noted at Balsall Common, Blythe Valley CP, Daisy Bank, Haden Hill Park, Lutley, Olton Mere, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Stivichall Memorial Park and Trittiford Park.

Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus Abundant resident and winter visitor. Warks Counts of breeding pairs included 11 in 62 ha of Kingsbury Wood, 12 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (cf. 14 in 2005, 16 in 2004) and seven in 40 ha at Oldberrow (as in 2005). Outside the breeding season it was very abundant across the county during the first quarter, with four figure counts including: up to 1300 in rape fields near Worm- leighton Res during January-March, 2000 in the Hodnell and Lower Radbourn area on January 8th, 1000 at Watergall on 21st, 1000 at Chesterton on 25th, 3000 roosting in Ennister Wood (Ragley estate) on February 12th, 1500 at Norton Lindsey on March 8th,

116 1100 at Priors Hardwick on 9th and 2700 roosting in Birchley Wood on 11th. Autumn flocks were much smaller. Apart from a count of 3260 flying south at Brandon on November 1st, the largest flock was 800 in Ennister Wood on December 17th. Worcs The largest flocks recorded during the first winter period were of 60+ at Upton Warren on January 2nd, 450 at Abberton on February 27th and 600+ at Defford Airfield on March 12th. A strong dawn movement of birds heading south or southwest was recorded from October 29th, with 2000-3000 over Castlemorton Common, 2040 over Grimley New Workings and 2000-2500 over Malvern Link. Washford East produced counts of 3000+ and 2000+ on November 1st and 2nd respectively and at Grimley New Workings a count of 3500 was made on 12th. Staffs Several pairs at Doley Common and 13 pairs at Doxey were the only reported breeding records for this ubiquitous bird. In the first winter period, larger flocks were seen in January at Alrewas (150), Aston/Burston (150), River Sow Meadows (300) and Whit - more Bent Lane (300); February at Aston/Burston (100), Crossplains (500), Kemsey Manor (100), and Whitemoor Haye (150); in March 300 flying north at Stockley Vale on 1st was the only record of spring migration, elsewhere in the month seen at Aqualate (250), River Sow Meadows (300), Rolleston Park (800), Woodhead (100); in April at Berry Hill (200), Brown Lees (122), Coldmeece (800) and Woodhead (250). 200 were regular at Doley Common in June. Visible migration in autumn is tabulated below. 06-Oct Westport Lake 18 flew W 23-Oct Westport Lake 55 flew W 25-Oct Belvide Reservoir 592 flew south-west 29-Oct Belvide Reservoir 2581 flew south-west Westport Lake 276 flew W 01-Nov Keele University 2200 Flew over campus in 30 mins early morning Westport Lake 310 flew W 02-Nov Westport Lake 169 flew W 03-Nov Belvide Reservoir 1123 flew south-west Westport Lake 75 flew W 04-Nov Westport Lake 58 flew W 05-Nov Tittesworth Reservoir 1000 flew over 09-Nov Black Bank 1100 Flew west/south-west 12-Nov Apedale CP 1500 Flew W and SW in 45 minutes early morning Westport Lake 50 flew W 19-Nov Westport Lake 90 flew W 20-Nov Apedale CP 2630 2200 Flew N, 430 SW between 8.00-8.35 am 22-Nov Apedale CP 3040 Between 0800-0840: 680 flew SW, 600 E, 1760 N 04-Dec Black Bank 2850 1100N and 1750S between 8.00 and 8.45am Larger counts in the second winter period occurred in September at Sutton (125); October at Greenway Bank (150); November at Blithfield (200) and Byrkley Park (475) and December at Belvide (1500). W Mid A total of 16 territories were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot – an increase on the 14 in each of the previous two years and closer to the average of 17 over the last 14 years. Early morning sky watches in Smestow Valley on eleven days from October 24th to November 10th (summarised in the table below) revealed a high passage of migrants, with cumulative totals of 27,159 birds in 19 hours of observation, averaging 1,423/hour and peaking at 6,581 birds between 06.35 and 09.20 on October 29th and 9,683 between 06.55 and 08.20 on November 2nd – these appear to be the largest numbers ever recorded across the Region, being far in excess of 5000 noted at Holt Heath (Worcs) in 1981 and Ettington (Warks) in 1983.

117 Sky watch totals of Wood Pigeons in Smestow Valley October November 242728293031123410 1:30 1:50 2:20 2:45 1:15 1:50 1:40 1:25 2:05 1:20 1:05 hr:min 675 1144 384 6581 165 725 9683 3690 3375 397 340 birds At Marsh Lane NR, notable counts included up to 500 in February and March, with up to 150 migrants noted moving overhead on October 27th and 29th, and 240 on December 4th. Other high counts included 300 at Saltwells LNR and 171 at Aldridge on February 25th, 156 at Allesley Park on April 8th, 650 at Hampton-in-Arden on August 1st, 221 in Coundon Wedge on September 9th, 400 at Sandwell Valley in October, 120 at Fens Pools in December, 480 over Dunstall Park on 4th and another 2800 over Smestow Valley on 16th.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Very common resident. Warks A bird was incubating eggs at Birchmoor on March 2nd, while an occupied nest was found in an ornamental tree at head height in the main shopping street in Nuneaton on August 18th. Reported flocks containing 20 or more birds included 40 in an open barn at Weston-on-Avon on January 5th, 22 in a farmhouse garden near Wormleighton Res on 18th, 41 at Bidford-on-Avon on September 16th, 31 in a churchyard tree at Fenny Compton on October 8th, 22 in a Tredington garden on November 27th and 30th, and 25 at Griff during the final two months of the year. Worcs The only record received was of 20+ at Coombegreen Common on November 11th. Staffs Three pairs bred at Doley Common. 11 were seen at Berry Hill in January, 14 at Kemsey Manor in February, 10 at Alrewas in August, 10 at Berry Hill in August, 44 at the Fenton Cemetery roost in November and 60 at Blithfield in December. W Mid Just two territories were recorded at the Mons Hill CBC plot – down on both last year’s four and the average of 3.5 over the last 14 years. Totals of 36 were counted at Fens Pools on September 21st and 64 at Dunstall Park on November 5th.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Frequent or fairly common summer visitor and passage migrant, mainly to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Long-term average: April 27th (71) to September 25th (71). 8-year average: April 27th (=) to September 19th (–6 days). The first birds arrived in the Region on April 21st at Little Comberton and 22nd on Cannock Chase; the last being seen on September 28th at Weston-on-Avon. Warks Birds were again just about holding on in the Tame Valley, with at least one pair probably breeding in the Kingsbury/Middleton area. Single birds were also noted north of the regular breeding range at Polesworth on June 1st, Brandon on 2nd and Alvecote on 29th. In the south in another topsy-turvy year, 19 probable territories were located (cf. 34 in 2005, 14 in 2004 and 51 in 2003). Breeding pairs were found at: Hampton Wood, Kites Hardwick (two), Salford Priors GP (two) and Weston-on-Avon (at least three), with further singing males noted in the breeding season at: Bishop’s Hill, Coldcomfort Wood, DMC Kineton (two), Ettington Park, Fenny Compton, Ilmington, Radway, Ratley, Stoneton and Worm - leighton Res. Spring arrivals were late with the first appearing on May 1st at Kingsbury. In contrast there were more September birds than usual with the last staying at Kingsbury until 14th and Fenny Compton to 16th, but with a later bird at Weston-on-Avon on 28th.

118 Worcs A single pair nested at both Broadway and Little Comberton, whilst reported as resident throughout the breeding season at Hollybed Common, which held one pair, small numbers frequented Lower Moor between April 29th-August 26th, with a maximum count of seven on July 3rd and at Throckmorton Lagoons, one was singing on May 7th, then a maximum of two pairs were observed regularly until September 8th, plus a juvenile was noted on 17th. The first spring arrival was observed at Little Comberton on April 21st and singles were noted at Dowles Brook on 23rd, Fladbury on 27th, Drakes Broughton Orchard on May 3rd and Gwen Finch Wetland on 9th. Two were on Coombegreen Common on 28th and June 4th, four along Broadway disused railway on 4th, one at Berrow Down on 11th and Sheriffs Lench Farm held one on 26th, then two on July 24th. One was spotted at Burlish Top on June 24th, two and one were observed near Grimley Church on July 8th and 20th respectively, singles were at Grimley Old Workings on July 10th and August 20th and two at Ryall Pits on July 19th and 30th. One was at Higher Moor on August 26th, an adult and juvenile at Longdon Marsh on 27th, two adults at Grimley Old Workings on September 2nd, one at Sheriffs Lench on 3rd and one at Kinsham Lake on 6th. Staffs One or two were seen on many occasions at Beaudesert, the Rifle Range and Strawberry Hill on Cannock Chase from April 22nd until July 7th, but with no evidence of breeding. Other singles were discovered at Hanchurch Woods on June 2nd PJon, Bushton on 12th DIMW, Rugeley on 30th BSm, Draycott-in-the-Clay on July 29th DIMW and Bellamoor Lane August 20th ESC. Finally, an autumn migrant was seen at Blithfield on September 19th-20th MJI. W Mid One flew over Clayhanger on April 22nd.

Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Scarce feral visitor which has bred. Warks Single birds were reported at Hartshill STW on January 31st JJB and Coton on September 27th NDBC. Staffs One at Keele University on January 23rd RTo, with possibly the same bird seen regularly at Trent Vale, Stoke in February per DWE. W Mid Probably bred in the Sandwell Valley area, where birds were noted throughout most of the year, with three in February, October and November per MWe. Two were noted at Trittiford Park on January 1st RWi, with singles at West Bromwich on 18th REH, Marsh Lane NR on April 1st GPR and Handsworth Park on July 20th and September 25th SOx.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Fairly common, but declining, summer visitor. Long-term average:April 11th (70) to September 6th (69). 8-year average: April 8th (–3 days) to September 3rd (–3 days). First seen on March 31st at Happy Valley with last at Gwen Finch on August 21st; confirming the trend of earlier arrival but also earlier departure too. Warks About 70 calling males were located during the breeding season at 49 sites (cf. 86 at 53 sites in 2005), continuing the downward trend noted in recent years. Few sites had more than one or two males, with a maximum of just three at Brandon, Ladywalk, Kingsbury and Salford Priors GP. Count data for the important population at DMC Kineton was not forthcoming this year, but it was apparently similar in size to 2005 when ten males were logged. The first spring bird appeared at Coton on April 7th, with birds present daily in the county from 14th. Few late summer juveniles were reported, with the last seen at Alvecote on August 8th.

119 Worcs Juveniles were observed at Gwen Finch Wetland on July 14th, 15th and August 21st, whilst Lower Moor held three juveniles between July 11th-August 19th. The first spring male was heard in the Happy Valley on March 31st and the second at Grimley on April 10th. Sighting increased from mid April, with singing males reported from Abberton, Bredon Hill, British Camp (two), Castlemorton Common, Clifton Pits, Coombegreen Common, Dowles Brook (three), Gwen Finch Wetland, Hangman’s Hill, Hartlebury Common, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common, Hollybush, Little Comberton, Lower Moor (three), Old Hills (two), Porters Mill, Common, Stoke Bliss, Strensham Lagoons, Timberhonger and Upton Warren. Staffs The first bird arrived on April 14th at the Rifle Range with three at the Cadet Huts the next day. Thereafter, reported almost daily until June 20th; after which there were five July records, juveniles in August at Belvide (1st-3rd), Chasewater (3rd, 5th), Gailey and Ingestre (6th) and in September one at Chasewater (8th) and a juvenile at Blithfield the last (21st). Late May-June sightings suggest attempted breeding at Aqualate (two), Beech, Belvide, Cannock Chase (10+), Copmere, Cuckoo Bank (two), Doley Common, Drayton Bassett Pits, Goldsitch Moss, Hanchurch Woods, Lady Edge, Needwood Forest area (10 sites), Revidge, Swallow Moss (two), Three Shires Head, Uttoxeter and Weston Jones. Nine birds were seen between Seven Springs and the Stepping Stones on May 30th, with four regularly seen elsewhere on the Chase, Chasewater on April 30th and Cuckoo Bank on June 7th. W Mid Bred at Elmdon Heath, where a juvenile was watched being fed by a Blackbird on May 27th and 29th. At Marsh Lane NR, the first was noted on April 19th, with up to two regularly thereafter until late May, but none were recorded after June 6th. Single birds noted at Clayhanger on April 20th, Goscote Valley on 23rd, Sandwell Valley during May, Whitley on 4th, Dorridge on 12th and June 30th, Smestow Valley on May 12th, Westwood Heath (Coventry) on 20th and Spring Hill on 31st and June 2nd.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Frequent, but much declined, resident. Warks The population continues to improve despite a number of reported road casualties and poor breeding success early in the season due to a shortage of small mammals. After early failures many pairs apparently had better success later in the summer. The largest concentration of breeding pairs reported was six in the 1215 ha of Stoneton and Wormleighton parishes, of which at least four reared young. Other suspected or confirmed breeding pairs were reported from: Avon Dassett, Bishop’s Itchington, Bishop’s Tachbrook, Chadshunt, Combrook, DMC Kineton, Dunchurch, Edstone, Farnborough (two), Fenny Compton, Grandborough, Idlicote, Kingsbury, Lea Marston, Mancetter, Morton Bagot, Napton, Shrewley, Weston-on-Avon, Whichford and Willicote. Birds were reported from a number of other localities during the breeding season from throughout the county indicating a healthy population, although the south and east remain the strongholds. Worcs Both Lower Moor and Sheriffs Lench held a single pair during the breeding season, but both failed to breed successfully. Pairs also reported from Clevelode and Huntsfield during the breeding season, whilst singles were observed at Shenstone on May 10th, 28th, June 11th and 19th, plus at Westwood Park on May 14th and 20th and Nash End on 22nd. Good numbers reported between January and April, the best counts coming from Longdon Marsh, which held three on January 2nd, four on February 24th and 25th and five on March 3rd. Singles or a pair were observed regularly at Huntsfield between January

120 11th-April 8th, one was at Abberton on January 4th, one at Ferhill Heath on 30th and Throckmorton Airfield attracted two on February 4th, one on 26th, plus two again on March 5th and 11th. Singles were reported from Swinesherd Way on February 17th, Banalls Rough on 18th, Evesham (found dead on roadside) on 20th, Downend on 21st, Westwood Park on 21st, 26th, 27th and March 1st, Oakley Marsh on February 27th and March 19th and Churchill on February 28th. One flew into a house window at Pendock on February 28th, then flew off, but was found dead in the garden the next morning and during March singles other than stated were reported from Timberhonger on 4th, 5th and 10th, Defford Airfield on 5th, Bishampton on 13th, Trimpley Reservoir (two) on 15th, on 18th, Oaklands Farm on 20th, Eckington Meadows on 20th and 24th, Caunsall, Upper Bittell Reservoir and Wassell Grove on 22nd and Mount Pleasant on 25th. April sightings comprised singles at Bishampton on 4th, Rous Lench on 5th, Upton Warren on 5th, 12th, 15th and 19th, Aston Somerville on 9th, Feckenham on 10th and Naunton Beauchamp on 22nd. Autumn and second winter period sighting dramatically reduced in numbers, with one at Grimley New Workings on September 7th, one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 27th, a pair at Sheriffs Lench throughout this period and singles at Timber - honger throughout November, Huntsfield on November 10th, Waresley on 11th, Hartle - bury on 18th and Lower Moor on December 11th and 20th. Staffs Widespread in the county and possibly increasing, with reports received from 96 different localities (cf. 62 in 2005) and breeding at Blythe Bridge, Caltonmoor, Ford, Frith Bottom, Godstone, River Sow Meadows, Waterfall, Weston Jones, Winkhill and Yoxall Bridge. Long-staying birds were reported from Aqualate (Jan-Apr), Ashwood (Jan-Apr), Belvide (Feb-Apr), Chapel Chorlton (Mar-Jun), Doley (Jan-Jun), Tittesworth (Jan-Jul and Oct-Dec) and Woodhead (Mar-May). W Mid A pair bred at Wishaw, whilst a pair nesting in Worcestershire was often seen through spring at Bartley Reservoir. Single birds were noted alongside the River Blythe between Cheswick Green and Stratford-upon-Avon on March 12th and July 13th, at Walsall Wood on March 20th and April 24th, Marsh Lane NR on March 21st and 29th, Sheepwash UP during April and October, and Coventry on 9th.

Little Owl Athene noctua Fairly common resident. Warks Probable or confirmed breeding pairs were reported from: Avon Dassett, Calcutt (two), Charlecote Park, Chesterton, Compton Verney, Draycote, Ettington Park, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Kites Hardwick, Lapworth, Maxstoke Priory, Packington Park (three), Salford Priors GP, Seeswood Pool and Tredington. There was again a fall in recorded sites, with just 55 compared to 67 in 2005 and 80 in 2004. Whether this highlights a real decline or just reflects poorer coverage is not known, but one 10 km square bird race team in the south-east has found it increasingly difficult in recent years to locate this species. Worcs Successfully breeding pairs recorded at Bodenham Arboretum, Croome Land - scape Park, Lower Bittell Reservoir, Lower Moor and Hartlebury Common, plus singles or pairs observed during the breeding season at Aston Somerville, Bromsgrove golf course, Caunsall, Clevelode, Coombegreen Common, Hollybed Common, Grimley New Workings, Kempsey (two localities), Shenstone, Tanwood, and Timberhonger. During the first winter period, singles were noted along Holdings Lane, Kempsey on January 21st, February 14th and March 15th, whilst Shenstone held one on January 22nd, one was at Oakley Marsh on February 9th and one along Rowan Road, Kempsey on 11th. Post

121 breeding season sightings comprised one on Bredon Hill on August 24th, one at Rowney Green on September 11th, one at Bittell Reservoir and two at Castlemorton Common on 17th, three at Croome Landscape Park on October 8th and finally one at Wilden Marsh on December 17th. Staffs Widespread throughout the county, with breeding pairs reported from Alstone- field (one juvenile), Anslow (two juveniles), Aqualate (one), Belvide (one), Butterton nr Newcastle, Ingestre, Keele University (two), Pethillshead Farm (one), Pipe Green (one) and Whitemoor Haye. A pair was present all year at Aqualate and at Park Hall CP, and one or two birds summered at Doley, Ellenhall, Enson, Ford Grange, Goldsitch Moss, Hulme, Morridge and Waterfall. Recorded at 37 other sites. W Mid Seen in the breeding season at Barr Beacon, Cheswick Green, Marsh Lane NR and Sandwell Valley, but with no evidence of nesting. One was noted at Abbey on August 28th, with three in Smestow Valley on October 24th and one on November 3rd.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco Fairly common resident. Warks Reports of probable or confirmed breeding pairs came from: Avon Dassett, Brandon (in nest box), Compton Verney, DMC Kineton, Fenny Compton, Finham STW, Guy’s Cliffe, Hartshill Hayes, Hoar Park Wood, Honington, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Maxstoke (two), Middleton Hall, Ryton Wood (three nest boxes occupied) and Ufton Fields (in nest box). Five were found roosting in nest boxes at Ryton Wood on February 8th. In all it was reported from a total of 53 sites during the year. Worcs Breeding pairs reported from Bodenham Arboretum, Lower Moor and Malvern Link. Reported as resident at both Bredon Hill and Stoke Bliss, plus one was at Longdon Marsh on January 2nd, singles at Chaddesley Wood on February 26th, May 4th, 6th and 13th, one at Naunton Beauchamp on April 1st, four at Grafton Wood on May 3rd, three at Trench Wood on August 22nd, one at Winyates Green on December 4th and 5th and one in Redditch on 9th. Staffs Breeding confirmed at Belvide (one pair, one young), Coombes Valley (four pairs), Hanchurch Woods (four pairs calling, one juvenile heard), Keele University (one pair, two young), Kinver Edge (two young calling) and Weston Jones (one pair, one young). Breeding also suspected at Bishops Wood where five territories were recorded. Reported from 37 other sites (cf. 50 in 2005), including three at Woodhead on March 24th. W Mid Presumably bred in Bilston Cemetery, where a pair was present all year, and in the vicinity of Sheepwash UP, where a juvenile was seen on August 6th-7th. Also noted during the breeding season at Kingswinford, Moseley, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park and Wylde Green. Also recorded at Hall Green, Hay Head Wood, Monkspath, Olton, Salter Street, Solihull, South Yardley, Warstock, Westwood Heath and Wordsley.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus Uncommon and rather erratic winter visitor and scarce resident. Warks No birds were apparently seen at last year’s breeding site in the Tame Valley, but a bird was trapped and ringed at Ladywalk on May 28th DCl. A very vocal pair were also on territory in the Alvecote area from May 10th-June 13th AA, RLS et al. In the south-west, a bird was flushed from a spinney at a confidential site on June 23rd JJB, where a gamekeeper has reported regular breeding in the past. Other records were of singles at Brandon on February 3rd CHP and Stockton on April 12th ABe. Worcs Two birds were discovered in a roadside hedge at Shoulton from January

122 7th-10th per GLo et al, one was at Oakley Marsh from 27th-March 19th MJI et al, one roosted at the Moors Pool at Upton Warren on March 8th TNo et al and during the second winter period, one was at Spetchley Park on December 26th MSm. Staffs After last year’s boom year of 12-13 pairs, there was only one confirmed breeding pair in the county this year, a reflection on the drop in rodent numbers nationally (note that there are reduced numbers of Little and Tawny Owls this year too.) There was little evidence of breeding on Cannock Chase with just one adult heard calling on two occasions. In the first winter period, Long-eared Owl, Phil Jones up to five were present at Park Hall CP, with another site in the north of the county holding up to three birds. One was recorded at Belvide on April 26th and July 8th. W Mid One noted in Sandwell Valley during April per MWe.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Uncommon winter visitor in variable numbers. Scarce and erratic breeding species. Warks At least 14 birds were present in the county during January. Most reports came from the Dosthill/Kingsbury/Middleton area of the Tame Valley, where at least three were present during the period January 1st-30th, with four on 10th. Subsequently up to two were seen here most days up to April 15th, with the last on 20th. A bird seen high over Dosthill on May 18th was probably a late migrant. Elsewhere a traditional roost site at Priors Hardwick was occupied until at least early February, with six together there on January 2nd and 8th. Other records involved two roosting again in a small plantation at Oxhill on January 1st, with single birds at Napton Res on 5th and Brandon from 15th-27th. The only autumn reports were of single birds at Draycote on October 24th and at both Kingsbury and Ladywalk on 30th, while two were seen at Dosthill on December 17th. Worcs At Defford Airfield, one or two were present during the first winter period, with one still present on May 6th, a bird first observed on Worcestershire Beacon from late October 2005, remained in the area until April 23rd and Eckington Meadows held three on January 8th, two on 22nd and March 13th, then one on 20th. The only other record came from Upton Warren on March 24th and no sightings were reported during the second winter period. Staffs In contrast to our other owls, an excellent breeding year with numbers well up from previous years. Two pairs are known to have fledged two and one young and up to three other pairs may have bred but these were not confirmed. In the first winter period, up to two were seen at Chasewater until April 29th and up to three at Cuckoo Bank until April 17, although these could have been the same birds. In January, one was seen around the Alrewas, Croxall and Whitemoor Haye area with others at Drayton Bassett Pits (30th) and Swallow Moss (2nd-7th). One was seen at Doxey on February 12th, then it or another from April 8th-21st. Up to two quartered Drayton Bassett Pits from March 17th-April 10th and

123 Revidge from March 23rd-April 9th. Finally, singles were seen at Chase Corner on March 24th, Cuckoo Stones (Hayes) on 26th and Belvide on 29th. The second winter period was a much quieter affair with singles at Goldsitch Moss on October 4th, Middle Hills on 9th, Cuckoo Bank on November 2nd, Croxall GP on 5th, Dosthill “in December” and Cuckoo Bank on December 28th. W Mid One was noted at Sheepwash UP on May 1st ICW.

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Uncommon to frequent, but very local summer resident, mainly on Cannock Chase. Rare passage migrant. Long-term average: May 16th (63) to August 23rd (45). 8-year average: May 8th (–8 days) to August 27th (+4 days). First birds heard on Cannock Chase on May 6th. The last was also on the Chase on the early date of July 21st but they are difficult to detect in the late summer. It is encouraging to see birds at new and old haunts. Warks A churring male was seen and heard at Brandon on the evening of May 23rd GWi et al and one was seen hawking moths at dusk near the railway at Henley-in-Arden on July 4th ADW. Staffs First two churring birds were heard at Strawberry Hill on May 6th, then one at the White House on 9th. About 40 birds were present on Cannock Chase this year and five churring birds were again found at Hanchurch Woods. In addition, a churring bird was heard in a wood to the west of the Chase, indicating a further range expansion in the county. Last seen at Springslade Lodge on July 21st.

Common Swift Apus apus Common summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 23rd (72) to September 28th (72). 8-year average: April 19th (–4 days) to September 30th (+2 days). An early arrival, even by recent trends, on April 2nd at Blithfield with the last being at Westwood Pool on the very late date of October 19th. Warks It was another early arrival, with four at Stoneleigh on April 16th, singles at Brandon and Earlswood on 17th and another at Kingsbury on 18th, with small numbers at multiple sites from 19th. The main arrival began on April 28th when 150 were at Draycote and smaller flocks were noted at several other waters. This date also saw the first arrivals in Fenny Compton village, where the main arrival of local breeding birds was actually witnessed on May 3rd, which was a warm day. From four present at 10 am numbers rose steadily to the full compliment of 60 by noon, with small parties observed spiralling down from high in the sky. Draycote held most of the larger spring concentrations, with estimates of 2500 on May 8th, 2700 on 17th, 1000 on 21st and 4000 on 23rd, all during rainy or overcast conditions. The best counts in the Tame Valley were of 500 at Kingsbury on the evening of May 2nd and 400 on 7th, with 500 at Ladywalk on 21st. Up to 200 were also seen in the Coton/Lea Marston area on several dates in May, with peaks of 150 at Salford Priors GP on 21st and 150 at Brandon on 25th. Summer counts were fairly average with maxima of 500 feeding low in overcast weather at the Coton/Lea Marston Pools on June 21st, 200 over Crimscote Downs on July 10th and 200 at Fenny Compton on 21st. The main emigration appeared to take place on August 4th-5th, with 500 moving west at Farnborough Park in less than an hour on the last date. Very small numbers continued to pass through until the start of September, with the last flock of note being one of 20 at Dosthill on August

124 21st. The final records of the year were of four at Dosthill and one at Fenny Compton on September 4th, and then singles at Seeswood Pool on 5th and Draycote on 6th. Worcs No breeding data received. Small numbers began to arrive in the county during late April, with two at Upton Warren on 26th, two at both Grimley New Workings and Lower Moor, plus one at Ryall Pits on 27th, whilst five were at Kinsham Lake and six at Marlbrook on 29th. Totals increased from early May and the best counts were of 34 at Broadway on 4th, 80 at Bittell Reservoir on 15th and 50 at Upton Warren on 31st, then 80 here on June 21st. Birds lingered into late August, with three at Malvern Link on 23rd, three at Bredon’s Hardwick and one at Ryall Pits on 27th and one at Winyates East on 31st, plus the only sighting in September came from Malvern Link, where four were noted on 1st. Two reports of late migrants during October, with a group of five observed at Gwen Finch Wetland on 8th and a single bird showing some characteristics of the eastern form pekinensis flew through Westwood Pool on 19th SMW. Staffs Two early birds flew through Blithfield on April 2nd followed by singles at Doxey on 7th and 9th. From April 17th onwards small numbers were seen regularly, with the major influx occurring from 25th with 30 at Chasewater, then 1000 there on 27th coinciding with 70 at Gailey. There were then 100 at Belvide on 29th, 100 at Aqualate and 300 at Chasewater on 30th. In May there were 80 at Alrewas, 200 at Aqualate and Chasewater (1st), 1200 at Chasewater (2nd), 200 at Aqualate (6th), 300 at River Sow Meadows (7th), 500-600 at Chasewater (8th-22nd) and 160 at Aqualate (21st). Summer counts at Aqualate included 400 on June 1st, 500 on 25th and 100 into July. There was also 100+ at Blithfield on June 19th. Breeding occurred at Bateswood (4 pairs), Oak Hill, Stoke (2+ pairs) and West End, Stoke (11 pairs) with all the Stoke birds nesting in roof spaces. Late summer saw 300 birds congregating at Ellenhall on July 14th and 200 at Doxey on 23rd, with autumn passage first noted at Hanchurch Wood on August 1st with 196 south in 15 minutes early in the morning. This was followed by “a large movement” over Essington Quarry Pool on 11th and Chasewater on 19th after which small numbers were seen regularly until September 7th, with final singles passing through Westport on 10th and 12th. W Mid Birds bred at several locations adjacent to the Smestow Valley and Sheepwash UP. High counts included about 500 in Sandwell Valley in May, over 300 at Marsh Lane NR on 23rd and 200 at Dunstall Park on August 17th. Also reported from Acocks Green, Aldridge, Balsall Common, Bartley, Chadwick End, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, Cradley Heath, Dorridge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Great Barr, Haden Hill Park, Harborne, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Leighswood, Longbridge, Lutley, Moseley, Nether - ton, New Invention, Olton Mere, Penn, Park Lime Pits, Portway, Reedswood Park, Ryders Mere, Saltwells LNR, Stubbers Green, Sutton Park, Walsall, Warrens Hall, West Brom- wich, Whitley, Wolverhampton, Worlds End and Yardley Wood.

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Fairly common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Barford, Brandon (two), Broom, Charlecote, Ettington Park, Farnborough Park, Finham STW, Honington, Kingsbury, Tiddington and Wimpstone. Other breeding season (May-June) records came from: Abbots Salford, Alcester, Chessetts Wood, Compton Verney, Coombe Abbey, Coton, Dosthill, Draycote, Guy’s Cliffe, Halford, Hampton Lucy, Idlicote, Ladywalk, Longbridge, Napton Res, Newbold-on-Stour, Salford Priors GP, Seeswood, Tredington, Warwick Castle Park, Welford-on-Avon and Wormleighton Res. Many more sites had birds at other times of the year. At Brandon up to six were noted during the autumn, and 22 were ringed here during the year.

125 Worcs Two pairs held territories along the Dowles Brook and single pairs reported during the breeding season at Gwen Finch Wetland, Kyre Pool, Lower Moor, Nineveh, Upper Arley, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Single bird observations also came from Bittell Reservoir, Bredon’s Hardwick, Kinsham Lake and Trimpley Reservoir during this period. Reported during the winter period at Abberton, Arrow Valley Lake, Birtsmorton Pools, Bittell Reservoir, Bredon’s Hardwick, Brotheridge Green Pool, Grimley, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, Kyre Pool, Lower Moor, Beckford Lakes, Upper Arley, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Staffs Breeding was confirmed on the River Swarbourne at Brackenhurst Covert, Doxey, Ford Green, Brookley’s Lake and on the River Dove at Clay Mills, and suspected at Aqualate and at Tixall, although reports during May and June also came from a further eight locations. The species was also reported, usually as single birds, from a total of 70 sites around the county. W Mid Probably bred locally to Marsh Lane NR, Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP. Also seen in the breeding season at Coundon Wedge, Olton Mere and Walsall Arboretum. Otherwise noted at The Dingles, Dorridge Park (“first for several years”), Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, The Leasowes, Saltwells LNR, Scribers Wood, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Thimblemill Brook and West Bromwich.

Hoopoe Upupa epops Rare passage migrant, very rare in winter (7/10). Warks A single bird was seen at Montilo Farm, Harborough Magna on April 29th FMcM. Worcs One was observed in paddocks at Ryden Farm, near Charlton on May 5th CGr, PSt. Staffs One was seen well by a non-birder at Heathcroft Paddock, Ingestre on May 5th at 5.50am J. Turner per RCB, aptly described as “a Mohican with bar-codes”! It flew off towards Birch Hall Farm but could not be relocated. W Mid One was well watched at Reedswood Park and nearby Beechdale Primary School from September 28th to October 9th several observers.

Wryneck Jynx torquilla Scarce passage migrant. Last bred in 1941. Worcs One was discovered in a Bromsgrove garden on September 14th DWill. It is interesting to note that Wryneck has been recorded annually in Worcestershire on autumn migration since 2000. W Mid One was photographed in a Boldmere garden on August 24th SHo. Another was

Hoopoe at Walsall, Dave Kelsall and Wryneck at Solihull, Steve Valentine

126 well watched at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull, from September 20th-23rd BLK, GPR et al.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridis Fairly common resident. Warks A common and well distributed bird, which has done well in recent years. The largest count was eight at Brandon in June. Worcs A pair reared a single chick at Stoke Bliss and reported as a common resident and breeding species along the Dowles Brook and the Malvern Hills and Commons. Also observed during the breeding season at Bittell Reservoir, Devils Spittleful, Hewell Grange, Kempsey Common, Old Hills, Porters Mill, Ryall Pits and Upton Warren. Reported from many localities outside the breeding season and the best counts made during the year were of three at Castlemorton Common on February 27th, five at Hollybed Common on March 24th, four at Happy Valley on April 2nd and four at British Camp on July 29th. Staffs Juveniles were reported from Anslow, Branston GP, Chasewater, Crump wood, Cuckoo Bank, Ingestre, Katyn Memorial, Upper More- ton, Waterfall and Wettonmill. Present through - Green Woodpecker, Grimley, out the year at Apedale CP/Black Bank, Andy Warr Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Belvide, Chasewater/ Cuckoo Bank and Elford GP. One or two birds were logged at 71 other sites, with six at Cuckoo Bank on May 6th, three-five in the Anson’s Bank/Brocton Coppice area in March- May, five at Dovedale on August 6th and Drayton Bassett Pits on August 25th and three at Baggeridge CP on April 17th. W Mid Recorded during the breeding season at Bradnock’s Marsh, Brueton Park, Burys Hill, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, The Dingles, Fens Pools, Fibbersley, Marsh Lane NR (probably at least two pairs locally), Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Moseley, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, West Bromwich and Winson Green. Also noted at Baddesley Clinton, Blythe Valley CP, Daisy Bank, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hall Green, Haden Hill Park, Hands - worth Park, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Penn, Reedswood Park, Stivichall Memorial Park, Warley Woods and Wordsley.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major Fairly common to common resident. Warks No change in status. Five nests were located in the Ettington Grove/Knavenhill Wood area, while six breeding pairs were reported from both the Compton Verney area and the Idlicote Hills. Worcs A pair reared three young at Birchen Coppice, one pair fledged two young at Bodenham Arboretum, reported as a common resident and breeding species along the

127 Dowles Brook and a juvenile was observed at Timberhonger. Reported from numerous locali- ties throughout the year, the best counts being of six at Arrow Valley North on February 19th, seven at Wood on March 14th, four at Hewell Grange and six at Trench Wood on April 12th, four at British Camp on July 29th and four at Upton Warren on October 22nd. Staffs Breeding confirmed from Anslow, Apedale CP, Biddulph (Newpool), Chasewater, Coombes Valley (“many”), Doley, Doxey, Ingestre, Pipe Green, River Sow Meadows, Seven Springs, Strawberry Hill, Tittesworth, Tixall Bridge and Toad Hole Bridge. Addi - tionally, six birds were recorded in Hollybush in June and logged at 38 other sites during the breeding season. High counts comprised seven at Baggeridge CP on March 4th, six at Hanchurch Woods on December 17th, River Sow Meadows on December 26th and Seven Great Spotted Woodpecker, Springs on March 25th, five at Doxey on Dave Taylor November 19th and Tixall Bridge on December 26th. W Mid Birds noted in the breeding season at Aldridge, Allesley Park, Bilston Cemetery, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Long - bridge, Marsh Lane NR area (probably three pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory), Moseley, Nailcote, Olton Mere, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (up to two pairs), Smestow Valley, , Sutton Park, Warley Woods and Whitley. Also seen at Acocks Green, Balsall Common, Barr Beacon, Black Patch Park, Brueton Park, The Dingles, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, Hall Green, Ham Dingle, Handsworth Park, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Lutley, Mary Stevens Park, Old Swinford, Penn, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Stivichall Memorial Park, Temple Balsall, Trittiford Park, West Bromwich, Whitehouse Common and Wordsley.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor Frequent to fairly common resident. Warks Three pairs were again breeding at Coombe Abbey, with single pairs at Clowes Wood and Idlicote. A pair may have done so at Brandon, where three or four were seen on March 4th. Otherwise there were odd sightings through the year at the following sites: Abbots Salford, Alvecote, Arrow, Barford, Charlecote, Chesterton, Coton, Crimscote, Draycote, Earlswood Lakes, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Finham STW, Fisher’s Mill GP, Guy’s Cliffe, Honington, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lea Marston, Middleton Hall, Oldberrow, Packington Park, Radway, Ragley Park, Red Hill, Seeswood, Shuttington, Upton Park, Wasperton, Whitacre Heath NR and Wormleighton Res. Sightings were more frequent this year in the north of the county but fewer in the south. In all it was reported from 35 sites, well down from the 47 of 2005. Worcs Probably three territories held along the Dowles Brook, where two males and a female were noted on April 30th, a pair nested at The Knapp and Papermill reserve, a juvenile was observed at Little Comberton between June 25th-August 11th and drumming

128 birds were heard on February 5th, March 4th and 5th, Old Storridge on 26th and a pair were both drumming at Wood on April 28th. A pair was resident at Birchen Coppice, but no young seen, whilst singles were observed at Westwood Pool on February 18th, Devils Spittleful on 19th, Shrawley Wood on March 14th, Flint Dingle on 19th, Bittell Reservoir on 26th, Hanley Swan on June 11th, Mill Shrub Pool on July 3rd and Old Storridge on 28th. Post-breeding and second winter period sightings came from Mill Shrub Pool on September 11th, along the River Severn at Grimley, two were noted on 16th, then singles on October 29th and November 2nd, one was at Ankerdine Hill on September 22nd, one at Upton Warren on 26th and singles along the Dowles Brook on November 25th, December 9th Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, and 17th. Singles were observed at Grafton Whitacre Heath, Steve Seal Wood on November 30th, at Hurcott Pool and Lower Bittell Reservoir on December 10th and at Holt on 28th. Staffs No confirmed breeding again this year but birds were heard drumming at Knypersley, Loynton Moss and Timbersbrook. An immature female arrived at Belvide from July 11th, followed by an immature male from 28th, these being the only juveniles reported in the county this year and were last seen there on September 30th. Given that adult birds were also observed early in the year, this suggests successful breeding nearby. Pairs were seen throughout the year at Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Byrkley Park; other long- stayers included pairs at Tixall Bridge (Jan-Jun), Seven Springs (Apr-Jun), a male at Weeping Cross (Apr-Jun) and Burntwood (Jul-Sep). Three at Knypersley on April 17th was the highest count. Elsewhere at Mayfield on January 30th, two at Acton Trussell on March 22nd, Crumpwood on 30th, River Sow Meadows on April 2nd, two at Cadet Huts on 4th, Oulton Heath on 6th, Blithfield on 8th, two at Gailey, Orton Lane Wombourne and Park Bank on 14th, Alton on 18th, Gailey on May 30th, Wergs on June 9th, Doxey on 11th, Enson on 23rd, Woodmancote on September 24th, Highgate Common on October 22nd- 24th, Rowley Hall on 27th, Handley Banks on November 26th, Blithfield on December 4th, Dunstall on 17th and two at Wootton on 18th. W Mid Single birds were noted in Hay Head Wood on January 20th, Trittiford Mill Pool on March 3rd, Brueton Park on 12th, 17th and 19th, and April 12th, Marsh Lane NR on March 15th, April 15th and June 4th, on March 15th, Tettenhall College on 23rd, Sandwell Valley in April and May, and Knowle on April 13th. Later in the year, singles were noted in Berkswell on July 20th, Dorridge on August 22nd September 12th, Smestow Valley on October 10th and a Northfield garden on November 19th.

Wood Lark Lullula arborea Resident until 1960s, then a rare visitor and now an uncommon, but increasing breeding species Worcs One found at Crabbe Tree Farm/Merrilands Farm in early December 2005 AWa et al remained on site until February 17th. Last reported to have bred in 1965, 2006

129 heralded the welcome return of a successfully breeding pair in the county. Two young were fledged from the first brood and the adults were observed carrying food to a second nest, the outcome of which is unknown. Staffs 38 territories were recorded on Cannock Chase, accompanying the exciting discovery of two new sites holding singing/territorial birds; Hanchurch Woods SJT and Kinver Edge EBl. A passage bird flew over Belvide on April 29th GJM, SNu.

2003 Addendum W Mid In addition to the one seen at Lutley on October 30th, two birds were present on November 1st GP.

Sky Lark Alauda arvensis Abundant, though much declined, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks A continued increase was noted on a 120 ha farm under environmental stewardship at Morton Bagot, where 31 territories compares to 16 in 2005 and just 12 in 2004. A big increase was also noted at Birchmoor, with at least 30 pairs present in set-aside (cf. 20 in 2005). Other good-sized concentrations included 30 pairs at Nunley Test Track and 12 pairs on Warwick Race Course, while there were also eight singing between Bidford and Marlcliff (about average) and five pairs on Little Packington landfill. A slight decline was registered on a 100 ha farm at Shipston-on-Stour, where there were 17 territories (cf. 19 in 2004, 22 in 2003). Flocks were generally small during the late winter period, the exception was that remaining over from 2005 in set-aside at Wasperton, peaking at 165 on February 10th. Otherwise a handful of flocks reached 30-40 in the south, with 61 at Marlcliff Hill on January 20th being the best count. Visible autumn passage again commenced slightly early on September 17th, with counts including 26 south at Charlecote GP on 18th, 30 south at Wormleighton Res on 23rd, 65 south at Salford Priors GP in an hour on 24th and 220 west in an hour at Lighthorne Quarry on 25th. As in 2005 subsequent passage was generally rather light, with the best counts (all per hour) including 145 moving south-east over the Fenny Compton Hills on October 8th and 105 south-east there on 14th, 135 south at Napton Hill on October 13th and 100 west at Lighthorne Quarry on 17th. From late September to early November there were reports of flocks of up to 100, generally in stubble fields, from a number of sites across the Feldon region. The largest counts involved 250 at Weston-on-Avon on September 28th, 425 at Ilmington Downs on October 6th, 250 at Napton on 13th, 180 between Charlecote and Wasperton on 24th and 150 at Salford Priors GP on 29th. Subsequent wintering maxima were generally much lower but included 50 at Wormleighton Res on November 17th, 75 at Fenny Compton on 19th, 40 at Shawbury on 26th, 50 at Wasperton on 28th and 54 at Priors Hardwick on December 15th. Worcs 50 birds were counted on Bredon Hill on March 7th, suggesting a strong breeding population, whilst singing males were reported from Castlemorton Common (one), Conderton Hill (six), Grimley Old Workings (four), Hollybed Common (five), Holt Prairies (four), Kempsey Lower Ham (two), Lower Smite Farm (four), North Hill (two), Common (two), Ryall Pits (16), Table Hill (one), Timberhonger (two) and Worcestershire Beacon (four). During the first winter period, four were at Merrilands Farm on January 5th, 40 at Longdon Marsh on 8th, 60 on Bredon Hill on 10th, 12 at Blackstone on 21st and 30 at Lineholt on 28th. Second winter period sightings comprised 20 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on October 7th, Bredon Hill held 40 on 15th and 20th, plus 65 on November 10th, 23 were at Comhampton on October 27th, 20 at Lower Bittell Reservoir on 29th and Stoke Bliss produced counts of 30 and 40 on November 4th and December

130 23rd respectively. 30 were reported at Holt Prairies on November 9th, 24 at Little Comberton and 40 at Ryall Pits on 12th, 25 flew south over Lower Moor on 19th, 40 were at Abberton on 26th, five at Bredon’s Hardwick and 38 at on 8th and 40 at Lower Moor between 20th-31st. Staffs There was no very early singing reported this year but the first flocks were recorded on January 1st with 32 at Whitmore Bent Lane and 50 at Flashbrook Grange. Other flocks comprised; in January 90 at Crossplains, 44 at Cuckoo Bank and 30 at Aston/Burston; in February 40 at Crossplains and 45 at Denstone Hall; in March 48 at Black Bank, 31 at Berry Hill and 29 at Silverdale Colliery. The first singing bird was not noted until March 9th at Baddeley Edge, then at a further 39 sites throughout the county. Double-figure counts of singing birds comprised 20 at Bateswood and Berry Hill, 12 at Apedale CP and 10 at Cuckoo Bank. Autumn passage birds were noted at Belvide heading either west or south-west, with 42 on September 24th, then 44 on October 7th, 10 on 8th (also 12 over Blithfield and 37 over Doxey), 62 on 14th and 45 on 29th. The end of the year only produced two flocks into three figures; 105 at Batchacre Hall on October 15th and 100 at Keele on November 21st. Other large flocks were 20 at Black Bank (August 5th), 60 at Belvide (September 26th), 45 at Stableford (October 19th), 32 at Crossplains (22nd), 62 at Denstone Hall (November 1st), 40 at Stockley Vale (25th), 40 at Branston Water Park (26th) and 40 at Crossplains (December 22nd). W Mid Breeding season records came from Aldridge, Blythe Valley CP, Bowmans Harbour (three pairs), Burys Hill, Chadwick End, Clayhanger, Darby’s Hill, Goscote Valley (first for several years), Lutley, Marsh Lane NR (up to three pairs), Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Portway, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and West Bromwich. A count of 56 birds at Marsh Lane NR on November 7th was a site record, whilst 38 were also noted on 11th. The only other sites to have double-figure counts were Lutley with ten on January 17th, Dunstall Park with 22 on October 2nd and December 20th, Sandwell Valley with 12 in October and Smestow Valley with 23 on 29th. Smaller totals were noted at Aldridge Airport, Birmingham, Great Barr and Reedswood Park.

Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris Rare passage migrant and winter visitor (5/10) W Mid One was at Edgbaston Reservoir from October 18th-25th CSe. This is the second county record; the first being at in 1997.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 21st (71) to October 12th (71). 8-year average: March 13th (–8 days) to October 11th (+1 day) Bucking the trend of recent years, the first to arrive were actually behind schedule on March 23rd at Coton and Draycote. The last left rather early on October 2nd at Brandon. Warks About 100 pairs were present in the summer at our main colony at Salford Priors GP, but they had a disastrous breeding season. Only about 50 pairs attempted to breed, 30 of which occupied a heap of stored sand, but these were all dug out by a fox. Elsewhere, the colony at Lawford Heath GP was active but unfortunately not counted, while the riverbank colony at Ladywalk was washed out by flash flooding. Two pairs were thought to have attempted breeding in the banks of the River Tame at Water Orton, while around five pairs bred in High Cross Quarry, Copston Magna (cf. 30 pairs there in 1997) and a few in Paget’s Lane Quarry, Bubbenhall. Spring birds were rather late to arrive compared to

131 other recent years, with the first arrivals of two at Coton and one at Draycote on March 23rd. The main passage commenced on March 27th with small numbers appearing at most of the larger waters, while at Kingsbury WP there were up to 120 present, increasing to 250 there on 28th. Other site maxima included 200 at Brandon on April 2nd, 250 at Coton on 11th, 900 at Draycote and 200 at Napton Res in steady rain on 19th, 250 at Salford Priors GP and 180 at Abbots Salford on 23rd, and 100 at Shustoke on May 14th. Post-breeding counts were generally small and included 250 at Salford Priors GP on July 16th, 50 at Brandon on August 3rd and 20 at Napton Res on 13th. The last autumn migrants were two at Fenny Compton on September 30th, one at Abbots Salford on October 1st and seven at Brandon on 2nd. Worcs The only record received of a nesting colony came from Ryall Pits, where just 14 pairs bred, compared to 26 in 2005. The first spring arrivals were observed at Lower Moor, with two present on March 25th, whilst on the 27th a reasonable passage of birds was noted, with 60 at Bredon’s Hardwick, two at Caunsall, 40 at Kinsham Lake, 50 at Lower Moor, one at Upton Warren and one at Wythall. Numbers dwindled during the remaining days of March, with 10 at Upton Warren on 29th, nine at Gwen Finch Wetland on 30th and 25 at Mount Pleasant and 12 at Upper Arley on 31st. Counts made during April and May comprised 100+ at Gwen Finch Wetland on 2nd and 7th, 170+ at Grimley New Workings on 4th, 80 at Upper Bittell Reservoir and 120 at Westwood Pool on 8th, 32 at Upton Warren on 10th, 20 at Stanford Bridge on 20th, 200+ at Bredon’s Hardwick on 22nd, 53 and 25 at Upper Arley on 30th and May 4th respectively and 210 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on May 15th. Just two autumn records received, with six noted at Brotheridge Green Pools on August 20th and 230+ at Trimpley Reservoir on September 23rd. Staffs The first arrivals were on March 25th, with three at Belvide, two at Chasewater, four at Gailey and four at Whitemoor Haye. The first of the larger flocks soon followed, on the 27th with 92 at Belvide, 100 at Blithfield, 35 at Gailey and on 28th up to 300 at Blithfield and 100 at Copmere. The big flocks had to wait until April; 500 arriving at Belvide on the 8th and 9th and a massive 1500 at Blithfield also on the 9th. Chasewater held 200 birds between 3rd-11th and Aqualate 150 from 1st-4th with 150 also at Tittesworth from 16th-23rd. There were six breeding colonies located; the largest at Draycott Quarry had 48 active burrows and the one at Fauld 35. Breeding was also noted at Whitmore (20), Denstone Hall (17), River Dove at A515 (5-6) and Brund (12). Late season flocks were better than those in 2005 but still low with only Elford Gravel Pits reaching three figures: 100 on August 8th. The last birds of the year were at Belvide, two on September 10th and five on 17th. W Mid Birds bred in the vicinity of Marsh Lane NR and possibly along the River Tame near Castle Vale. Three-figure counts were regularly made at Marsh Lane NR during April, peaking at 290 on 12th, with other spring counts including 45 in Sandwell Valley and 30 at Fens Pools. Later counts included 50 plus at Stubbers Green on July 31st and August 2nd, and a high of 70 at Marsh Lane NR on 2nd. Birds were also noted at Aldridge, Brown - hills, Clayhanger, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Meriden, Netherton Reservoir, Olton Mere, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Somers Gravel Pit.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common, though declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: March 31st (72) to November 5th (72). 8-year average: March 22nd (–9 days) to November 14th (+9 days). As in recent years an early arrival with the first bird being seen at Bredon’s Hardwick on

132 March 16th. The last was a bird on November 20th at Upton Warren. This species now appears to be spending nearly four more weeks in the Region! Warks It was generally a better season for this species, with a recovery to 12 nests on a farm at Morton Bagot after a fall to three there in 2005. Of interest were two occupied nests at the radio transmitter station on top of Lark Stoke Hill (Ilmington Downs), the highest point in the county. The first spring migrants were noted at both Coton and Leamington Spa on March 23rd, at Kingsbury on 25th and Brandon on 26th, with birds noted daily thereafter. The first main arrival occurred on April 2nd when birds were noted at many waters including 25 at Kingsbury, while a pair arrived back to their nest in an Idlicote stable on the same day. Some huge concentrations were noted on spring passage during wet and windy weather, including 200 at Earlswood Lakes on April 17th, 700 at Draycote and 170 at Napton Res on 19th, 800 at Draycote and 200 at Alvecote on 20th, and several hundred at Seeswood Pool on 22nd. During May there were several flocks of 100-150 recorded, at Abbots Salford, Earlswood Lakes and Nether Whitacre, while 500 were at Draycote on May 8th. In the post-breeding period flocks were smaller than usual probably reflecting the fine weather conditions, with few concentrations of more than 100 reported. Of note was a large roost (at least by recent standards) which developed in the new Newlands reedbed at Brandon during late August, peaking at 500 on 28th. Other sizeable counts included 200 at Kingsbury on August 28th and 250 on 31st, 200 at Ladywalk on September 2nd, 200 at Radway on 10th, 150 moving west at Wormleighton Res on 11th and 120 flying south at Salford Priors GP on October 1st. Small flocks of up to 40 were noted fairly widely in the county up to about October 8th, with odd birds daily up to 14th when two were at Temple Herdewyke. The last was at Brandon on October 23rd. Worcs 50 nests monitored in the Alfrick area produced 305 young and two pairs fledged nine young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum. The first spring migrant was observed at Bredon’s Hardwick on March 16th, then singles, other than stated, were reported from Gwen Finch Wetland on 27th and 30th, Kinsham Lake on 28th, Bredon’s Norton on 31st, North Hill on April 2nd, Lower Smite Farm on 3rd, Bittell Reservoir (two) on 4th, (six) on 8th, Upton Warren on 5th and Wassell Grove on 8th. No particularly large concentrations recorded during the spring, the best counts being 20 at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 9th, six at Birtsmorton Pools on 17th, six at Castlemorton Common on 18th, 60 at Upton Warren on 19th, 40 at Lower Moor on 30th and at Bittell Reservoir, 50 were noted on May 2nd, then 40 on 15th. The largest groups observed during September were of 450 at Grimley New Workings on 7th, 200+ over North Hill on 17th and Trimpley Reservoir held 230+ on 23rd and 250 on 24th. Small numbers lingered into early October, with three noted at Arrow Valley North and three at Castlemorton Common on 1st, two at British Camp Reservoir on 2nd and 3rd, two at Upton Warren on 5th, two at Throckmorton Lagoons on 7th and five at Ryall Pits on 8th. Upton Warren held a late individual on November 20th. Staffs The spring migration was again rather slow. Beginning on March 25th with singles at Aqualate and Blithfield and two at Belvide, the birds trickled through into April with the first double figures on 2nd at Blithfield (25) and Coldmeece (20). There was a sudden influx of 1000 birds at Blithfield on the 9th together with the large Sand Martin influx noted above. There were three small peaks later in the month – 100 at Chasewater on the 20th, 200 at Belvide on the 22nd and 250 at Tittesworth on the 23rd. There were a few 3-figure breeding season numbers reported for this year; 150 on the River Sow Meadows (May 7th), 150 at Chasewater (14th) and 110 at Doxey (14th). Only six locations had recorded breeding, Anslow, Brindley Ford, Bull Pen, Doley Common, Stafford

133 Crematorium and Wolseley Bridge; this low number may be more a reflection of lack of recording than actual breeding numbers. This year the autumn migration flocks were very small. Accumulations started at Tittesworth with 100 (July 26th) and 200 birds (August 18th), 100 at both Doxey (September 2nd), Chasewater (4th) and River Sow Meadows (15th). Visible migration was first noted at Black Bank on September 15th, continuing throughout the month with double-figure counts only, exceeded by 581 birds through Belvide on September 24th. In October 80 birds passed through Belvide on 1st, 20 at Aqualate and 13 at Black Bank on the 3rd. Migration then rapidly petered out with the last being three at Doxey on the 15th and singles at Aqualate and Doxey on the 19th. W Mid Counts of passage birds in Sandwell Valley peaked at about 50 in both spring and autumn. A total of 189 were counted flying towards the southwest over Smestow Valley in 40 minutes on September 24th and about 100 moved through Marsh Lane NR in two hours on October 1st. Smaller numbers were recorded at Acocks Green, Aldridge, Balsall Common, Barr Beacon, Chadwick End, Chelmsley Wood, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Lutley, Moseley, Nailcote, Netherton Reservoir, Old Swinford, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Reedswood Park, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park, Trittiford Mill Pool, Walsall Arboretum and West Bromwich. A bird with a particularly orange breast at Marsh Lane NR on April 11th may have been of the race transitiva, from the eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica Very rare vagrant (3/10). Staffs A roosting bird was discovered in a work unit at Norbury Junction on the very late date of November 21st DTa, SNu. It flew off at 9.15am. This is the latest ever UK bird other than one in Suffolk from November 21st-25th 1987 and is also the fourth county record following one in 2003 and two in 2004. 2004 Corrigendum Staffs The finder of the bird at Gailey on April 29th-30th was R. Hollis, not as stated.

House Martin Delichon urbicum Common to very common summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 7th (72) to November 2nd (72). 8-year average: March 24th (–14 days) to October 23rd (–10 days) Continuing the trend of early arrivals, the first was on March 23rd at Coton while the last to depart was on November 21st at Smestow Valley. Warks Two new breeding colonies were reported, with 45 nests counted on two adjacent houses in Halford and 32 nests on a small pump house at Draycote. More were thought to be breeding at Maxstoke than usual, where seven nests were seen; while eight nests were occupied at Compton Verney. A farm at Morton Bagot held 13 nests, compared to eight in 2005 and four in 2004. On the negative side, only three nests were apparently occupied at the Forest of Arden Hotel compared with the usual 60, nesting having been deterred by the staff putting up wire netting. An early bird was noted at Coton on March 23rd, followed by two at Earlswood on 28th and singles at both Seeswood Pool and Kingsbury on 30th. Many sites had arrivals during the first few days in April. The larger counts on spring passage were usually during overcast rainy weather and included 250 at Draycote on April 19th and 300 there on 20th, several hundred at Seeswood Pool on 22nd, 200 at Earlswood Lakes on May 2nd, 500 at Draycote on 8th, and 300 at Abbots Salford on 21st. Post-breeding counts were rather modest and included 200 at Fenny Compton on July 21st, 100 at Alcester on

134 August 17th, 150 at Dosthill Lake on 21st, 200 at Radway on September 1st, 350 at Shustoke on 2nd, 200 at Dosthill on 4th and 200 over Edge Hill on 21st. During the first week or so of October small flocks of up to 20 continued to pass through the county, with some of the larger flocks comprising 150 at Radway on October 1st, 60 at Napton Res on 2nd, 50 at Shustoke on 5th after heavy rain, 43 at Ilmington Downs on 6th, 40 at Brandon on 7th and 30 at Salford Priors GP on 8th. The last reports were of five at Draycote on October 10th and 20 at Ratley on 11th. Worcs Three pairs nested at Bodenham Arboretum, one at Kings Norton Golf Club, seven along Pershore High Street, seven pairs successfully fledged young at a property at Stoke Bliss and four pairs double brooded at Moreland House, Timberhonger, where up to 20 adults and juveniles were observed by August. During the spring and early summer, the first bird was recorded at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 2nd, Upper Bittell Reservoir held three and Lower Moor one on 8th, singles were at Upton Warren on 12th, Little Comberton on 14th and Bredon’s Hardwick on 15th, three at Birtsmorton Pools on 17th and Upper Arley held 12 on 30th and 15 on May 6th. The two largest counts during this period were of 50 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on May 15th and 40 at Upton Warren on June 21st. Post- breeding flocks reported were of 75 at British Camp and 84 at Happy Valley on July 29th, 50 at Upton Warren on August 2nd and 100 at Winyates Green on 5th and during September, counts included 100 at British Camp and 250+ over Worcestershire Beacon on 3rd, 105 over Bredon Hill on 8th, 50 at Upton Warren on 13th, 400+ over North Hill on 17th and 230+ at Trimpley Reservoir on 23rd. Arrow Valley Lake held a flock of 100 on October 1st, 45 were hawking for insects over Tinkers Coppice, Grimley on 6th, 15 were noted at Abberton, six over Bredon Hill, 30 at British Camp and 100+ at , all on 7th, 100 flew over Worcestershire Beacon on 8th and two were at Little Comberton on 16th. Staffs Like 2005 the 2006 spring migration was rather quiet. The first two birds were seen at Aqualate on March 28th, then one at Westport on 31st, but the first three-figure numbers were not recorded until May, the largest flocks in April being 50 at Belvide (22nd) and 44 at Doxey on 23rd. In May, 500 were seen at Chasewater on 2nd, 150 at Coldmeece Pools on 7th, 200 at Belvide on 14th and 400 on River Sow Meadows on 20th. Unlike Sand Martin and Swallow, House Martins did not experience a large influx in early April. Breeding was noted at Batchacre Hall, Denstone, Ingestre (28 nests), Keele University (19 nests – the most for over seven years), Lower Ellastone (five), Park Farm Trysull (13) and Pipe Green. A pair was still feeding young at a nest in Baswich on the late date of October 9th. Late summer/autumn build-ups commenced with 300 at Doxey on July 23rd and 200 at Aqualate on 31st, with August counts of 200 at Belvide on 1st, 200 at Aqualate on 11th, 400 at Aqualate, 300 at Belvide, 500 at Blithfield, 400 at Tittesworth (all on 13th), 100 at Chasewater on 15th, 100 at Tittesworth on 18th, 200 at Blithfield on 19th, 150 at Chasewater on 23rd, 120 at Doxey on 26th and 200 at Aqualate on 29th. In September notable flocks included 300 at Doxey on 2nd, 140 at Black Bank on 20th rising to 230 on 22nd. After this, single- or double-figure flocks were seen regularly into October with 44 flying south through Belvide on 8th and the last birds – three at Madeley STW – on the 18th and three at Doxey on 19th. W Mid The only breeding records came from Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Warstock. Counts included 31 at Fens Pools on April 20th, 50 at Sheepwash on May 25th, 300 in Sandwell Valley in May and August, 50 at Whitley on July 2nd, 100 at Marsh Lane NR on August 30th, 60 at Dunstall Park on 31st and 35 at Olton Mere on September 11th. Smaller totals were also noted at Acocks Green, Aldridge, Balsall Common, Bartley

135 Reservoir, Chadwick End, Chelmsley Wood, Dudley Wood, Edgbaston Reservoir, Highters Heath, Lutley, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton, New Invention, Olton Mere, Portway, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sutton Park, Warrens Hall LNR, West Bromwich, Whitley and Wolverhampton. A late bird flew over Dunstall Park on November 21st – the same day that a Red-rumped Swallow was in Staffordshire!

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Fairly common, though declining, summer resident and passage migrant, becoming increasingly restricted to the northern and western parts of the Region. Long-term average: April 8th (69) to September 24th (67). 8-year average: April 1st (–7 days) to October 4th (+10 days). The first arrival was in line with recent years on April 2nd on Cannock Chase; the last were two at Black Bank, Silverdale on October 4th. Warks A below average year. In spring there was a single bird at Wormleighton Res on April 7th and another flew north over Fenny Compton on the same day. Singles also flew north over Priors Hardwick on April 25th and Ryton Pools CP on 26th. On return passage singles flew over Lea Marston on August 30th and Alvecote on September 1st, while three were at Wormleighton Res on 11th. Worcs Numbers remained stable during the breeding season at both the Wyre Forest and Malvern Hills. A minimum of 18 singing males were reported from four localities in the Wyre Forest, with Dowles Brook holding the highest concentrations, including counts of eight on April 15th, 10 on 30th and 15 on May 11th. Singles were also observed in the Wyre Forest at Pound Green Common on May 2nd, plus Callow Hill and Park Brook on June 15th. Around 22 singing males were recorded on the Malvern Hills and Commons, compared to 24 in 2005. Maximum counts here were of five between and Wyche Cutting on May 15th, three between Malvern Hills Hotel and Swinyard Hill on 17th and three between Malvern Hills Hotel and on 28th. One or two males were also recorded from British Camp, Hangman’s Hill, Happy Valley, Hollybush, and North Valley. Elsewhere in the county, one was singing at Penny Hill on April 14th; Bredon Hill held two singing males on 26th, then three on May 9th and a pair fledged young at the Devils Spittleful. The first spring sighting came from Dowles Brook (two) on April 14th and spring migrant birds were observed at Grimley New and Old Workings on 22nd. Autumn records comprised two at Grimley Old Workings on August 8th, two on Bredon Hill on 16th, then three on 21st, two at Grimley Old Workings on 26th, two at Lower Moor on 30th and finally Bredon Hill produced two on September 7th and one on 10th. Staffs Following the usual trend the first bird was seen on Cannock Chase at Straw - berry Hill/Seven Springs on April 2nd. Build up was rather slower than in 2005 as it took until May 9th to achieve double figures – 11 birds at Strawberry Hill and later 13 birds in the Stepping Stones area on 30th. Away from the Chase the first bird was seen at Highgate Common on April 5th with singletons at Barton GP and Alrewas Junction Pit on the 10th. Other sites reporting birds on passage were Belvide, Black Bank, Blithfield and Knypersley Reservoir. Apart from the Chase the only site which reported double figures was Hanchurch Woods, with 10 on May 18th of which nine were considered territorial males. Other sites holding birds in the breeding season were Bishops Wood (five), Coombes Valley (four), Dimmingsdale (one), Ipstones Edge (one), Kinver Edge (six), Lum Edge (one), Lower Hatton (one), Milford Common, Swineholes Wood (one) and Swallow Moss (one). Only two of these had confirmed breeding, Coombes Valley and Hanchurch Woods. As in 2005 the outward passage was very quiet with just ones and twos seen in

136 August, the first at Belvide on 12th the final birds being one at Crossplains on September 17th, another over Black Bank on 19th and two late birds over Black Bank on October 4th. W Mid Birds were again seen at Sutton Park during the breeding season. Two were noted at Solihull on April 29th. Autumn sightings involved two over Smestow Valley on August 17th and one on September 8th, two at Netherton Hill on 9th, one over Dunstall Park on 10th and two on 11th.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Common resident, though local in lowland districts. Widespread and common on passage, fairly common in winter. Warks Breeding pairs were down by a third at our main site Lighthorne Quarry, where there were about 20 pairs. This was due to close-mowing of large areas of rough grassland in the previous autumn. On July 29th 75 were counted here many of which were juveniles, while there were still three active nests. Elsewhere in the county several pairs bred at Baginton Airport, two pairs in set-aside at Wasperton and single pairs at both Nunley Test Track and Salford Priors GP. Other singing males were noted in the breeding season at: Brandon (two), Chesterton, DMC Kineton (two), Dosthill, Ladywalk and Tysoe. Wintering flocks during the late winter period were generally small, with counts of 20-30 coming from 12 widely distributed sites across the county. The only larger flocks were 70 at Salford Priors GP on January 22nd and 45 at Priors Hardwick on March 9th, the latter possibly including early migrants. Visible migration was noted in small numbers over Fenny Compton from March 11th-May 3rd, and elsewhere during this period several small flocks of up to 50 were reported. Larger counts included 70 in a marsh at Shustoke on March 20th, 200 moving through at Brandon on 26th, and a peak of 115 at Salford Priors GP on April 2nd. Visible return passage was noted over the southern hills from September 7th and in the north from 15th. The largest autumn counts came from the lower Arrow Valley at Salford Priors GP, where there were 170 south in two hours on September 17th, 185 south in one hour on 24th and 300 south in 90 minutes on October 1st. Elsewhere 270 moved west at Lighthorne Quarry in one hour on September 25th, but passage was lighter than usual in the Fenny Compton-Wormleighton area with peak hourly rates of only 75 south on September 23rd and 75 south-east on October 8th. The largest grounded flocks during the autumn were also at Salford Priors GP, where there were peaks of 170 on October 15th, 350 on 29th and 200 on November 5th. Other good sized flocks included 85 at Draycote on October 12th, 150 in a Napton stubble field on 13th, 170 on Ilmington Downs on 27th, 125 at Fenny Compton on 28th, 100 at Priors Hardwick on 30th and 150 at Ilmington Downs again on November 3rd. Visible migration was last noted in the Fenny Compton area on November 17th, and thereafter only small wintering flocks of up to 20 were present. The larger counts included 65 at Wasperton on November 28th, 50 at Salford Priors GP on December 3rd, a peak of 58 at Fenny Compton on 4th, 29 at Coleshill GP on 11th, and 26 at Kingsbury on 17th. Worcs Several pair bred near the summit of Bredon Hill and on the Malvern Hills and Commons, six singing males were counted around Worcestershire Beacon on March 23rd, plus around 50 birds were present on 28th and 29th, 10 were at Hollybed Common on 24th, 20+ displaying birds were observed between North Hill and Worcestershire Beacon on April 2nd and Castlemorton Common held three singing males on 16th and several on 27th. During the first winter period, 20 were at Longdon Marsh on January 2nd, 20+ at Merrilands Farm on 5th and 7th, 14 at Lower Smite Farm on 6th, 32 at Ladywood Sewage Works on 21st, 32 at Westwood Park on 22nd, 70 on North Hill on February 2nd, 40 at

137 Alfrick on 18th and 16 at Bredon’s Hardwick, plus 30 at Kinsham Lake on 26th. March sightings comprised 30 on Sugarloaf Hill on 3rd, 10 at Tanwood on 6th, 14 at Lower Moor on 7th, 20 at Holt Prairies on 12th and 150 at Eckington Meadows on 13th. 30+ were observed at Bredon Hardwick on April 14th. Post-breeding flocks on the Malvern Hills, included counts of 60+ at British Camp on July 29th, 40+ on North Hill on August 27th and 56 at British Camp, plus 25+ on Worcestershire Beacon on September 3rd. During the second winter period, British Camp held 70+ on October 2nd and 3rd, 50+ were noted at Lower Smite Farm and 20 at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 7th, 80 at Ryall Pits on 8th, 10 at Westwood Park on 9th, 40 at Kinsham Lake on 12th, 15 at Castlemorton Common and 40 at Lower Moor on 15th, 100 at British Camp and 45 on North Hill on 27th and 70+ at Ryall Pits on 29th. 25 frequented wet meadows at Lower Moor on November 19th and 30th, 20+ were seen at Bredon’s Hardwick on December 8th and Pinnacle Hill held 50 on 20th. Staffs This very common bird was seen throughout the year across the county. Notable early season flocks were to be found in January at Berry Hill (60) and Black Bank (44); in February at Berry Hill (100) and Hanchurch Woods (45); in March at Berry Hill (60), Black Bank (140) and Blithfield (55) and in April at Silverdale Colliery (120) and Wetley Moor (50). There were six reported breeding sites of which two, Cuckoo Bank and Three Shires Head, had confirmed breeding. Autumn passage commenced in early September with the first significant influx on 16th; flocks appearing at Belvide (60), Berry Hill (60), Blithfield (20) and Chapel Chorlton (40). Visible migration at Black Bank followed shortly after with counts of 120 on 18th, 60 on 22nd, 140 on October 1st, 100 on 2nd, 347 on 3rd, 165 on 4th, 140 on 12th, 120 on 14th – all hourly rates. In addition there were 70 over Berry Hill on September 30th, 126 over Belvide on October 8th and 95 on the 14th. Other autumn concentrations included 60 at Crossplains on September 25th, 100 at Cuckoo Bank on the 30th, 60 at Weaver Hills on October 1st, 55 at Berry Hill on the 8th, 60 at Ingestre on the 10th and 100 at Blithfield in October – date not provided. As migrants passed on, flock sizes dwindled from late October, the best in November being 40 at Stockley Vale and 30 at Pattingham and in December, 30 at Enson. W Mid Noted in the breeding season at Darby’s Hill, Park Lime Pits, Portway, Sandwell Valley and Sutton Park (up to 20 birds counted in Little Bracebridge/Streetley Gate area on June 28th). Spring passage included totals of 20 at Marsh Lane NR on March 14th, 22 at Sandwell Valley on 28th, 36 over Dunstall Park on April 20th and smaller numbers at Aldridge Airport, Blythe Valley, Edgbaston Reservoir and Sheepwash UP. In the autumn, high counts included 40 at Marsh Lane NR on September 23rd, 20 over Chelmsley Wood on 26th, 115 at Dunstall Park on October 2nd, 52 in Sandwell Valley on 3rd, 20 over Reeds- wood Park on 11th and 15 over Netherton Hill on 15th. Fewer birds were also noted at Birmingham and Sheepwash UP.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus Uncommon passage migrant and rare winter visitor. Warks A mid-winter bird at Draycote on January 1st was unusual. This site also produced two spring birds, on April 8th and 26th. The first report of a sparse autumn passage involved two at Salford Priors GP on October 1st. Draycote then produced birds on October 5th, 12th (two), 13th and 26th. Other singles were noted on floodwater by the at Leamington Hastings on October 12th and at Napton Res on 13th. The year concluded with four very late birds at Draycote on November 30th. Worcs Singles were discovered at Throckmorton Lagoons on October 5th and at Bevere Lock, Grimley on November 9th.

138 Staffs In the spring two at Blithfield on March 18th were joined by another on the 19th. In the autumn, the first lingered at Blithfield from September 15th-17th, then in October, two at Chasewater on 11th were joined by another on the 12th, with two remaining to 14th and another to the 23rd. Meanwhile singles were at Crossplains on 12th, Blithfield on 14th, 16th and 18th; Essington Quarry Pool on 16th, four at Belvide on 14th rising to six on 15th and dropping to two on 18th and one on 25th. The last bird was seen at Blithfield on November 9th. W Mid Single birds were noted in Sandwell Valley in October MW and reported there on February 24th and March 28th, and at Edgbaston Reservoir on October 26th.

Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis Rare passage migrant (7/10) W Mid A summer-plumaged bird was at Marsh Lane NR on March 23rd-24th per NPB, whilst one at Dunstall Park on April 9th was a site first GAC, KMC.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: October 27th (16) to April 18th (16). 8-year average: October 28th (+1 day) to April 17th (–1 day). First at Salford Priors on October 29th; the last to leave being on April 17th at Doxey Marshes. Warks Only two passage birds were reported; at Dosthill on April 10th ARD and Salford Priors GP on October 29th and November 5th JJB. Staffs One was seen at Doxey Marshes on January 5th MPe and at least three were present there until April 17th. One at Essington Quarry Pool on January 22nd GJM had been reported from 14th until 28th and it, or another, was there on April 8th ICru. Another was recorded at Blithfield on April 2nd GJM, where the only bird of the second winter period was also located – November 10th GJM and 12th ESC.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Fairly common, but declining, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 3rd (70) to October 12th (70). 8-year average: March 30th (–4 days) to October 11th (–1 day). In line with recent years, the first was at Draycote on March 31st and the last on October 12th at Draycote. Warks A better year was noted at Fenny Compton where the regularly counted breeding population increased to 27 pairs, the highest total for a decade. Elsewhere in the south and east breeding pairs were located at: Armscote, Avon Dassett, Charlecote, Chesterton Church Pool (four), Crimscote (eight), Draycote (two), Ettington, Fulready, Grandborough, Halford (three), Ilmington, Kites Hardwick, Long Itchington, Milcote, Northend (two), Preston-on-Stour (several), Salford Priors GP (three), Shipston-on-Stour (several), St Dennis (five) and Wasperton. Few were recorded again in the north, with just two pairs each at Birchmoor and Bramcote Hall, and one pair at Middleton. The first spring migrants were two at Draycote on March 31st, where numbers increased almost daily to reach peaks of 25 on April 10th, 30 on 20th and 31 on 24th. Salford Priors GP attracted peaks of 20 on April 18th and 30 on 23rd, while maxima elsewhere included 12 at Napton Res on April 19th, ten at Abbots Salford and nine at Seeswood Pool on 20th, and 15 at Kingsbury on 22nd, indicating the peak period of spring passage. On return passage only Draycote

139 attracted anything like average numbers, with peaks of 30 on August 22nd and 40 on September 3rd. There were 25 at Salford Priors GP on August 6th but the roost (which has held up to 200 in recent years) was not visited this year at peak period. No more than ten were seen at Fenny Compton during return passage (where there are usually peaks of 25- 40), while ten at Chesterton on August 29th, six at Shustoke on 31st and ten at Bishop’s Itchington on September 4th were the best of the rest. Birds were seen widely in very small numbers until October 1st. Birds stayed at Draycote a bit later, with ten on October 2nd and then small numbers daily until 12th when a group of three was the last record. Worcs Observed during the breeding season at Ryall Pits, where three males and a female were noted on May 6th, six on June 25th and at least a single pair nested success - fully in a cereal crop adjacent to the workings. Other sightings between May and July comprised singles at Lower Moor on May 1st, 3rd and June 13th, then four on July 19th and an adult and two juveniles on 27th, one at Cofton Richards Farm on May 2nd, July 3rd and 17th, a pair at Kinsham Lake on May 6th and 8th, two at Bredon’s Hardwick on 8th, two at Bury End Flash and one at Clifton Pits on 29th, preceded four on July 30th. Two adults and a juvenile at Longdon Marsh on July 14th preceded four on 20th and single juveniles on 27th and 29th and one was at Ashmore Common on 26th. Three juveniles were noted along Old Road South, Kempsey on August 4th and with suitable breeding habitat in the vicinity, were probably locally reared. During early April the first spring arrival was observed at Upton Warren on 1st, whilst other small counts came from Grimley New Workings, with one on 6th and four on 9th, Bredon’s Hardwick held one on 7th, three on 9th and 11th, two on 14th and one on 15th, plus singles were at Clifton Pits on 9th and Kinsham Lake on 11th. A reasonably strong passage was recorded mid month, commenc - ing with 20 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 16th. Bredon’s Hardwick also attracted six on 17th and on the 19th the latter site held 28, whilst five were at Clifton Pits and 20 at Grimley New Workings. Bredon’s Hardwick held 32, Hanley Swan a pair and Ryall Pits 10 on 20th, eight were at Caunsall, 23 at Ryall Pits and 14 at Saxon’s Lode on 21st, five were at Bredon’s Hardwick and nine at Ryall Pits on 22nd and 35 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 23rd, reduced to 14 on 24th. Singles were observed at Lower Moor on 24th and Little Comberton on 26th, whilst pairs were at Upton Warren on 29th and Bredon’s Hardwick on 30th. Autumn sightings were of six at British Camp on August 5th, Gwen Finch Wetland held singles on 16th and September 12th, singles were at Strensham Lagoons and Throck- morton Lagoons on August 16th and Bredon’s Hardwick produced counts of 16 on 26th, six on 27th, four on September 11th and one on 16th. Three were noted at Clifton Pits on August 26th and September 2nd, Ryall Pits held 20 on August 26th, one on 27th and two on September 9th, whilst at Grimley New Workings, three were present on August 26th, one on September 9th, two on 16th, four on 18th and 20th, three on 21st, two on 22nd and three on 24th. Ryall Pits produced a notable count of 20 on August 26th, then one on 27th and two on September 9th and singles were at Bishampton Vale Pool on 28th, October 1st and 4th, plus at Upton Warren on October 1st. Staffs Recording of this species was rather better than in 2005 and, although the majority of records came from Blithfield, there was a good scattering from elsewhere in the county. The first birds were seen at Blithfield and Whitemoor Haye on April 4th with early season peaks at Blithfield on 10th (11), 18th (31), 19th (15) and 23rd (25). Away from Blithfield double-figures were recorded at Whitemoor Haye (12 on 22nd), at Ingestre (14 on 22nd) and at Doxey (10 on 23rd). There were still 21 at Blithfield on May 3rd. Breeding was confirmed at Blithfield (one), Coldmeece Pools (three), Crossplains (three), Ingestre (two), Stableford (five) and Whitemoor Haye (two), and territories were also noted

140 at Alrewas (two+), Branston GP (two), Draycott-in-the-Clay (one), Fisherwick (two), Lower Hatton (two-three), National Memorial Arboretum (four-eight), Netherset Hey (one), Packington Moor (two-four), Swynnerton (one) and Weeford (one). There were also summer sightings at a further eight sites. Late season, all of the best counts were at Blithfield; 15 on August 27th, 30 on September 3rd, 20 on the 6th, an incredible 100 on 9th, 36 on 15th and 10 on October 9-10th. Other double-figure counts were 15 at White - moor Haye on July 19th and 10 at Elford GP on August 8th. The last bird was seen at Blithfield on September 27th. W Mid An estimated total of 61 birds moved through Marsh Lane NR between April 5th and May 8th, with at least 30 present on April 20th. Return passage was much quieter, with just one or two birds noted on six dates from June 29th to September 23rd. At Dunstall Park, singles were seen on April 20th and 21st, and August 8th and 18th, with two on September 5th and one on 25th. Up to three were noted occasionally in Sandwell Valley from April to June and again in September. Single birds visited Penn on April 14th and Sheepwash UP on 26th. Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava Rare passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks There was an excellent spring passage with the best total for ten years. Records included a pair at Draycote on April 20th RCM, a male at Chesterton Church Pool on May 1st and 8th ARD, two females at Draycote on May 3rd JFCJ, RCM et al and a male at Lawford Heath GP on 4th JFCJ. Another male at Attleborough Fields on April 30th DWh was only seen briefly so a hybrid “Channel Wagtail” could not be ruled out. Worcs Single male birds were observed at Saxon’s Lode on April 20th SMW and Ryall Pits on 30th BRS, DREW, AWa. Staffs An excellent year was capped by two possible, but unconfirmed, breeding records. The first arrival was a male at Blithfield on April 18th RCB et al, then one at Doxey on 23rd MLC, PDy and what was considered a different bird at Blithfield on 24th RCB. On May 9th a female bird was discovered at Stableford SJT accompanied by a male Yellow Wagtail and was seen carrying nesting material on June 6th NDP. Breeding here was unconfirmed since all fledglings immediately moved elsewhere and grass mowing in late June very near the nest site may have resulted in disturbance. The bird was last seen on June 25th. A second female was discovered in the breeding colony at Coldmeece on June 9th SJT where breeding with a male Yellow Wagtail probably occurred, but again was unconfirmed. W Mid Two females remained at Marsh Lane NR from April 17th-20th, with a different bird present on 21st per NPB, GPR, DJS. 2005 Corrigendum Warks From photographic evidence (which appeared in the report) the male at Draycote in April appears to have been a hybrid “Channel Wagtail” rather than a pure Blue-headed Wagtail. Blue-headed x Yellow Wagtail “Channel Wagtail” Though similar in appearance to Blue-headed, the distinctly pale grey hood, obvious white- centred ear-coverts and white chin make this race appear more like the eastern race beema than Blue-headed. Birds of this appearance frequent both sides of the English Channel and are believed to have been the result of hybridisation between the continental Blue-headed flava and British flavissima.

141 “Channel Wagtail” at Bredonʼs Hardwick, Andy Warr

Worcs Bredon’s Hardwick held a male on April 11th and 12th SMW et al and was joined by a second male from 14th-24th AWa et al. Another male was observed at Saxon’s Lode on 29th SMW. Staffs A male was seen in the Coldmeece colony from April 30th-June 24th SJT and breeding was confirmed when it was observed carrying food into the nesting area on June 6th.

Blue-headed x Iberian Wagtail Staffs A hybrid male bird with blue head, small white supercilium, dark grey lores and white chin was present at Coldmeece on April 30th NDP, SJT. It was thought most likely to be a Blue-headed/Iberian intergrade.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Fairly common resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding pairs were located at: Barford, Compton Verney, Earlswood, Fenny Compton, Great Alne, Haselor Weir, Longbridge STW, Preston-on-Stour, Seeswood Pool, Shipston STW and Water Orton. Breeding season records also came from: Alcester, Brandon, Charlecote Park, Chessetts Wood, Dosthill, Draycote, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Middle ton Hall, Morton Bagot, Oldberrow, Ratley, Salford Priors GP, Shustoke, Tredington and Wormleighton Res. Outside the breeding season the largest counts came in autumn, with maxima of seven at Earlswood Lakes on August 28th, and nine at Salford Priors GP on September 17th and October 15th. Worcs Six territories were held along the Dowles Brook and single pairs reared young at Bodenham Arboretum, Gwen Finch Wetland and Lower Moor. Also observed during the breeding season at Bittell Reservoir, the Bow Brook at Tiddesley, Bredon’s Hardwick, British Camp Reservoir, Kinsham Lake, Kyre Brook, Nafford Lock, Stoke Bliss, Stren - sham Lagoons, The Gullet, The Knapp and Throckmorton Lagoons. Singles, other than stated reported outside the breeding season at Berkeley, Birtsmorton Pools (four), Bittell Reservoir (two), Bredon’s Hardwick, Castlemorton Common, Clifton Pits, Hewell Grange, Kempsey Sewage Works (two), Kinsham Lake (two), Little Comberton, Malvern Link, Ryall Pits, Stoke Bliss (two), Throckmorton Lagoons, Trimpley Reservoir, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool (three). Staffs Confirmed as breeding at Back Forest, Baggeridge CP, Belvide, Fauld, Ilam,

142 Madeley STW, Sherbrook Valley, Three Shires Head, Tittesworth and Waterfall and as probable breeding from a further seven locations, predominantly in the north and west of the county. A further 74 sites held birds during the year with 10 at Brancote STW on August 26th and six at Jacobs Ladder in Dovedale, River Sow Meadows at Baswich and also at Doxey. W Mid Breeding season records came from Bournville, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fibbersley, Haden Hill Park, Harborne NR, Hawne Park, Olton Mere, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley (probably three pairs), Sutton Park and Walsall Arboretum. Also noted at Bartley Reservoir, Bilston, Birmingham, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, The Dingles, Dunstall Park, Erdington, Fens Pools, Knowle, Langley (eight counted on October 31st), The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR, Mons Hill CBC plot, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Solihull Park, Stirchley, River Stour in Stourbridge, Titford Pools, Trittiford Mill Pool and West Bromwich.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba Common resident, summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The only large roost documented was the traditional one at the Shires Retail Park, Leamington Spa, where at least 400 were estimated in March. A smaller roost in Typha swamp at Napton Res held 47 on January 11th and 53 on December 11th. Other large assemblies during the year included 60 in a field at Weethley on January 13th, 52 at Charlecote GP on 31st, 100 in a field near Alvecote on March 16th, 63 at Shustoke on August 17th and 70 at Draycote on October 12th. The usual post-breeding flock at Fenny Compton was noted to be much smaller than in previous years, with a peak of only 40 in September. Worcs Three pairs bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum, with one in a nest box fledging four young. During the first winter period between 60-80 roosted by Great Malvern Post Office from January 1st-February 10th, 80 were at Rous Lench Church on January 11th, 50 at Ladywood Sewage Works on 21st, 60+ at Throckmorton Tip on February 19th, 68 at Bredon’s Hardwick on 26th and 50 at Upton-upon-Severn Sewage Works on March 3rd. In April Clifton Pits held 25 on 9th and Ryall Pits 13 on 21st. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised 20 at Bittell Reservoir on August 12th and September 17th, 23 at Clifton Pits and 30 at Ryall Pits on August 26th, 25 were at Grimley New Workings on September 13th, then 40 on October 6th and a roost at Bishampton Vale Pool produced counts of 40 on September 28th, 80+ on October 4th and 60+ on 7th. 100 were observed roosting by Morrison’s in Malvern Link on October 23rd, 142 that roosted at Abberton Mill on 28th, preceded 170+ on 29th, 300+ roosted at Oakley Pool on November 3rd, 250 roosted at Great Malvern Post Office on December 7th, 350 roosted at Crossley Retail Park, Kidderminster on 9th and Kempsey Sewage Works attracted 25 on 18th, then 30 on 23rd. Staffs This species was seen throughout the county in every month of the year with some three-figure roosts noted in both early and late seasons. The Stafford M6 services held 400 birds roosting in bushes on April 9th. Post-breeding flocks peaked at 110 at Tittesworth and 100 at Blithfield both on August 28th and later in the year there were 100 at Hanchurch Hills on November 26th and 450 in the winter roost at Newcastle-under- Lyme on December 24th. Other autumn accumulations were 50 at Brancote STW on August 26th, 60 at Belvide on September 10th, 80 at Blithfield on 16th, 65 at Stockley Vale on November 25th and 65 at Hanchurch Hills on 26th. Breeding for this species was confirmed for Baggeridge CP, Byrkley Park, Coldmeece Pools, Crossplains, Doley, Doxey,

143 Musden Low, Stableford and Tittesworth. Visible migration was observed from October 1st-15th when the largest number, 38, was seen heading south over Berry Hill. W Mid Good numbers typically gathered at Dunstall Park before heading towards Wolverhampton city centre to roost, including 112 on January 26th and 286 on October 15th. A total of 145 birds flew over Smestow Valley in 90 minutes during an early morning skywatch on October 24th, presumably having just left their city centre roost and heading into Staffordshire to feed. A total of 36 flew over Marsh Lane NR on July 12th.

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba Uncommon passage migrant, mainly in spring. Warks A much better spring passage ran from March 28th-April 29th, with a total approaching 50 reported. Counts of more than two birds involved four at Seeswood Pool on March 28th-29th and three there on April 2nd, eight with Wheatears in a newly ploughed field at Napton on 9th, six at Draycote on 12th and nine on 14th, three at Salford Priors GP on 18th and four again at Draycote on 20th. Other sites to hold one or two during this period were Alvecote, Bermuda, Brandon, Dosthill Lake, Fenny Compton, Fisher’s Mill GP, Forshaw Heath and Kingsbury. An extraordinary autumn passage was recorded, with ten singles noted at Brandon during the period August 29th-October 22nd. Draycote had at least ten on September 11th, three on 12th, two on 21st, one on October 2nd and three on 12th. Further singles were noted at Fenny Compton on September 18th and October 16th, and at Charlecote GP on September 28th. Finally, an unseasonal first-winter bird was found and studied closely as it fed with Pied Wagtails in a flooded field near Oakley Wood on December 9th JJB. It was not seen again there over the winter which suggests that it may have been a late lingering autumn migrant enjoying the very mild weather rather than a true over-wintering bird. Worcs A strong spring passage recorded, with Bredon’s Hardwick hold- ing the majority of birds. The first was observed here on April 7th, then two were present on 8th, one on 13th, 12 on 14th, two on 17th, one on 19th, 33 on 20th, two on 23rd and finally seven on 24th. Elsewhere Grimley New Workings held singles on April 8th, 10th and 11th, two on 19th and singles on May 4th and 5th, four were at Clifton Pits on April 9th and 14th, seven at Lower Moor on 18th and Ryall Pits held three on 20th, then four on 23rd. Singles were observed at Caunsall on 21st and Upton Warren on 26th, whilst Hollybed Common held two on 27th. Staffs Although the dam at Blithfield is probably the best place to see this species, there was an excellent scattering of observations in 2006, typically ones White Wagtail at Bredonʼs Hardwick, Andy Warr and twos. The first was seen at Doxey on March 31st, the last in spring at Tixall Bridge on May 6th. Larger accumulations were

144 noted in April included 11 at Coldmeece on 10th, 10 at Drayton Bassett on 12th, 10 at Whitemoor Haye on the 13th, and 10 at Blithfield on the 16th, 12 on the 18th and 23rd. Other sites included Aston-by-Stone, Belvide, Chasewater, Crossplains, Croxden Quarry, Gailey, Silverdale Colliery, Stableford, Tittesworth, Westport and Whitmore Bent Lane. An early summer bird visited Westport on May 31st to June 1st NJS whilst possibly the same male bird as last year was seen at Stableford from May 1st until June 6th SJT, NDP. In autumn, males were seen on August 30th at Brancote STW RCB and Whitmore Bent Lane NDP, the latter remaining until September 6th, and finally one at Chasewater on September 20th GEv. W Mid At Marsh Lane NR, one or two were noted on March 27th and regularly from April 3rd-23rd, with five on 22nd. Single birds were also present at Edgbaston Reservoir on April 1st and 8th, Sandwell Valley on 16th and Dunstall Park on 17th, with two on 21st.

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Erratic, and usually rare winter visitor, but occasionally numerous in invasion years (9/10). Warks A bird was by the railway in Guy’s Cliffe Crescent, Warwick on March 17th SVa, before flying off north. W Mid In January, five were noted at Aldridge Airport on January 7th and 21 on 30th RCl, with two or three in Halesowen on 14th, 16th and 29th RCar, and one in Shirley on 24th DAd, plus two in Coseley on February 18th DCA.

Dipper Cinclus cinclus Frequent resident in north Staffs and north-west Worcs. Rare elsewhere. Worcs The only records this year came from along the Dowles Brook, where three territories were held during the breeding season. Other reports here comprised four on January 22nd, two pairs on May 1st, two on 10th and June 11th and two adults and a fledged young on July 11th. Post-breeding and second winter period sighting comprised one on September 18th and October 23rd, then two on December 12th and 27th. Staffs There were only 32 records for Dipper this year, all at sites on the streams and rivers of the North Staffs Moors, except for one at Knypersley Reservoir from January 2nd-May 27th with two there on February 18th. Breeding was confirmed at Churnet Valley, Consall CP, Dovedale, Norbury Weir, Three Shires Head and Wettonmill with the possi - bility of breeding at Coombes Valley and Danebridge. Other sites included Bearda, Hamps Valley, Hulme End, Ilam, Throwley Hall (Manifold Valley), Tittesworth and Wolfscote Dale. W Mid One was seen along the River Stour in Stourbridge on March 7th AMG.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes Abundant resident. Warks Territory counts included 27 in 62 ha at Kingsbury Wood, 35 (cf. 40 in 2005) in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot and 23 (cf. 24 in 2005) in 40 ha of farmland at Oldberrow. Other more casual counts included 15 at Ladywalk on February 17th, 17 at Shustoke on March 29th, 22 at Brandon on April 18th, 26 at Earlswood Lakes on 26th and 20 at Kingsbury WP on June 6th. Worcs The only relevant breeding season record came from Upton Warren, with nine singing males reported on April 29th. Eleven birds were counted at Ipsley Alders on September 30th.

145 Staffs This very common bird was recorded throughout the county and at all seasons of the year. 19 juveniles were ringed at Belvide while 70 pairs were recorded at Doxey (up from 58 in 2005). The larger flocks comprised 21 at Baggeridge CP on May 16th, 22 at Himley Plantation on May 31st, 23 at Doxey on February 1st with 30 there on November 19th. W Mid The population at the Mons Hill CBC plot was 41 territories, compared to 47 recorded in each of the previous three years and an average of 47.6 over the last 14 years. At least eleven singing birds were counted at Marsh Lane NR, whilst other counts included 14 at Blythe Valley CP on March 30th, 27 in Coundon Wedge on May 6th (cf. 17 in May 2005) and ten singing in Saltwells LNR on June 18th. No changes in status were noted at Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley.

Dunnock Prunella modularis Abundant resident. Warks A reduction to 35 territories on 120ha at Morton Bagot (cf. an exceptional 52 in 2005) was probably nearer to the average for this farm. On the Oldberrow farm, numbers almost doubled to 16 territories on 40 ha (cf. nine in 2005). Other casual counts included 15 at Kingsbury WP on February 1st, 13 at Shustoke on March 29th, 16 singing at Brandon on April 16th and 16 at Earlswood Lakes on 20th. Worcs Six singing males reported from Upton Warren on April 29th, was the only breeding record received and eight were seen at a garden feeding station at Winyates Green on February 11th. Staffs This species is ubiquitous but with rather few breeding records, just Doley Common, Doxey (22 pairs, no change on 2005), Silverdale Colliery and Stafford. The largest counts of 14 birds were recorded at Baddeley Edge in March and Doxey in April, May and November. W Mid The Mons Hill CBC plot held 14 territories, compared to 12 in each of the previous two years and the average of 12.6 over the last 14 years. At least 12 pairs were noted on or adjacent to Marsh Lane NR (cf. at least eight on the reserve last year). Totals of 13 were counted in Coundon Wedge on February 18th and 16 at Allesley Park on April 8th. No changes in status were noted at Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley. Again reported as a ‘common resident’ at Saltwells LNR, especially in the gorse on Netherton Hill.

Robin Erithacus rubecula Abundant resident. Warks Territory counts included 29 in 62ha at Kingsbury Wood, 20 in 120ha at Morton Bagot, and 17 in 40 ha at Oldberrow, all similar to 2005 figures. More casual counts included 24 at Ladywalk on February 10th, 25 singing at Brandon on March 19th, 21 at Shustoke on 29th, 38 at Earlswood Lakes on April 26th and 28 there on September 15th, 25 at Draycote on 24th and 23 at Brandon on October 5th. Worcs Two pairs fledged eight young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum, four pairs bred at Hollywood and counts of singing males comprised five and 14 at Upton Warren on April 19th and 29th respectively, plus seven at Ipsley Alders and four at the Old Hills on 22nd. A count of 20 was made at Upton Warren on February 21st. Staffs Breeding was noted at Apedale CP, Doley, Doxey (35 pairs, nearly double the counts from the previous three years), Stafford, Tittesworth, West End Stoke and Wolseley Bridge. Largest counts were 27 at Baggeridge CP on May 6th and 25 at Doxey on October 8th.

146 W Mid The Mons Hill CBC plot held 37 territories, up on the 32 of last year, but very close to the average of 36.6 over the last 14 years. At least 13 pairs bred on or immediately adjacent to Marsh Lane NR (cf. at least seven on the reserve last year). The population seemed very stable in Coundon Wedge: up to 48 birds were noted from mid August to early October, whereas no more than 33 were counted during either winter period (cf. up to 49 and 32, respectively, last year). Other notable counts included 29 at Allesley Park on April 8th, 23 at Nailcote on 19th and 18 singing in Sandwell Valley on September 25th. No changes in status were noted at Sheepwash UP or Smestow Valley.

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos Uncommon and declining summer resident, increasingly confined to the southern parts of Warks and Worcs. Long-term average: April 21st (71) to July 28th (23). 8-year average: April 23rd (+2 days) to July 15th (–13 days). First reported on April 14th at Strensham and the last being at Bentley on July 3rd. The departure dates are probably unreliable given the difficulty of locating this species when not in song. Warks A very poor year, with just two probable breeding territories reported, both at DMC Kineton. It was first heard at this site on April 21st. None were heard in the Stretton- on-Fosse-Ilmington district, where there were four in 2005. The only other spring record was of one singing at last years site by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on May 1st, but not subsequently. The final record unusually came from the north of the county where a singing male was seen and heard along an overgrown lane at Bentley on July 3rd CBr. The lateness of song and unusual locality would suggest that this was an unmated wandering male. Worcs The first singing male was reported from Strensham Services on April 14th and nearby at Strensham Lagoons one was heard on 16th, 20th and 30th, then two on May 4th. Singling males were reported from Langdale Wood between April 21st-June 2nd, with a maximum count of three on May 3rd, Upper Strensham Pool held two singing males on April 22nd, then one on May 7th, two were singing at Ripple Marsh on 20th, one at Defford Yacht Club on 26th and a pair was present at Defford Airfield during the breeding season.

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Scarce summer resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks There were spring reports of a female at Draycote on April 5th MDo and male there on 12th LPr, PPr, while a female frequented the stable block at Packington Hall on May 18th NPB. On return passage there was a male in a Stockingford garden on October 20th NDBC and a female or immature on the Lark Stoke Hill radio transmitter building on Ilmington Downs, a favourite spot, from 27th- 29th JJB et al. Worcs The male, which was dis- covered at Catterhall Farm House, Black Redstart, Smite Farm, Andy Warr

147 in December 2006, remained onsite until March 19th BTa et al, an immature/female frequented Worcester Cathedral from January 23rd-March 22nd KCo et al and a spring migrant bird was observed in a garden at Cowleigh Bank, Malvern on April 21st CDC. During the second winter period, a first-winter male was at British Camp from September 29th-October 12th CJo et al, an immature was in Happy Valley from October 17th-20th AWa et al, an immature/female at Lower Smite Farm from December 4th-17th SBl et al and an immature/male was found at Holt on 27th and remained to the year’s end BWi et al. Staffs A good year, with one at Sainsbury’s car-park at Perton on October 15th LNu, SNu, another at Chasewater on 29th PDJ and a first-winter male at Blithfield on December 22nd-31st GJM, ESC et al. W Mid In Birmingham, single males were noted in the Jewellery Quarter on May 5th and 7th, and June 13th-18th JGr, HKi, AMa, IOl, St. Paul’s on May 5th JM, Eastside on 24th per SBo, Newtown on June 18th RJK and Ludgate Hill on September 30th DLo. Other reports involved an immature bird in Coventry on July 22nd and an adult male at Brunel Street car park (Birmingham) on December 19th.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus A fairly common, though localised and much decreased, summer resident in Staffs and Worcs. Widespread on passage. Long-term average: April 10th (70) to September 27th (69). 8-year average: April 4th (–6 days) to September 30th (+3 days). First arrivals on April 4th at Bredon Hill and Lodge Hill Farm; the last on September 26th at Farnborough. Warks A pair bred at Oversley Wood PAC . Three singing males were located at separate sites in the Ilmington Downs-Meon Hill area in May-June, but with no evidence of breed - ing. On spring passage single males were noted at Griff from April 8th-10th, Ladywalk on 15th, Whittleford Park on 16th and Brandon on 26th. A female spent three hours in a Warwick garden after heavy rain on May 8th. The first of a fairly poor return passage was at Alvecote on July 15th, and birds were there on a number of other dates with a maximum of three on August 24th. Other singles were noted at Napton Res on July 23rd, Fenny Compton on 31st, Seeswood Pool on August 11th, Fenny Compton again on September 4th and 11th, Packington Park and Priors Hardwick on 7th, with the last at Farnborough on 26th. Worcs A maximum count of eight singing males was reported at Dowles Brook on April 30th, Singing males on Bredon Hill comprised 10 on April 20th, 15 on 26th and eight+ on May 9th, with bird present from April 4th-September 23rd and the breeding population along the Malvern Hills remains stable, with singing males reported from Hangman’s Hill, Happy Valley, Hollybush, Midsummer Hill and The Gullet. A pair nest at Eckington, a female was noted with two young at Frog End on June 24th and other singing males were reported from Walton Hill on April 15th and 16th, Ayton’s Heath and Flints Dingle on 17th, (two) on May 4th, plus Ridge Coppice and Stonyford on 18th. The first arrivals were observed on Bredon Hill and at Lodge Hill Farm on April 4th and other spring sightings comprised singles, other than stated at Wassell Grove on 8th and 9th, Lower Moor on 12th, Brickhouse Lane on 20th, Grimley Brick Pits, Grimley Old Workings and Offerton Lane NR on 22nd, Bredon’s Hardwick on 23rd, Upton Warren (two) on 24th and Croome Landscape Park on May 31st. Present daily at Lower Moor between June 29th-September 11th, with at least 10 birds involved. In July a male was at Upton Warren

148 on 6th and a male at Grimley Village on 8th and 9th, whilst a juvenile was observed at Nineveh on 15th and British Camp held eight on 29th. Most records during August and September referred to passage birds, with one at Huntsbridge on August 4th, one at Croome Landscape Park on 6th, a juvenile at on 9th, one at Bow Farm, Ripple on 11th, whilst on Bredon Hill, 10 were noted on 16th, five on 25th, 10 on 28th and five+ on September 10th. British Camp held six on August 17th, two on September 3rd and one on 17th, one was at Bevere Lock, Grimley and one at The Gullet on August 19th and one at Lower Smite Farm on 21st, preceded two on September 3rd and one on 14th. A pair were observed along Dowles Brook on August 24th, singles at Grimley New Workings also on 24th and on September 5th, one at Rous Lench on August 27th, three in Happy Valley on September 10th and finally two at Malvern Common on 18th. Staffs Spring migration numbers were very low this year and, as usual, mostly confined to Cannock Chase. Starting with singles at Cliffe Park (Rudyard Lake), Seven Springs and Swallow Moss on April 14th they reached a maximum of six on April 18th in the Sherbrook Valley. Away from the Chase the maximum was five at South Pilsbury on the 21st and Tittesworth on 23rd. Other sites holding April migrants were Alton, Belvide, Berry Hill, Weaver Hills and Whitemoor Haye. The greatest concentration of breeding birds was at Coombes Valley, which had 15 pairs this year. Elsewhere breeding was reported from Alstonefield, Barleighford, Blake Brook, Cannock Chase, Consall CP, Dovedale, Hanchurch Woods, Kinver Edge, Little Ferneyford, Reapsmoor, Rudyard Lake, Tittesworth, Warslow Brook and Waterfall. Summer sightings also came from Crump - wood, Cowhay NR, Dimmingsdale, Hawksmoor, Knypersley Reservoir, Milldale, Stanton Dale and Swallow Moss. The first bird on return passage was a female/immature at Keele University on July 7th which was joined by another on 10th. Berry Hill had the best numbers with singles on July 23rd, August 3rd-8th, four on 16th, two on 19th, one 20th, three on 28th and singles September 10th and 14th. Elsewhere there were two at Blithfield on August 13th and three on 14th; one at Cuckoo Bank on 22nd was joined by another on 23rd; one at Belvide and Crossplains on 23rd; one at Blithfield on 25th-28th with two on 26th, one at Belvide on September 5th-6th, two at Tittesworth on 6th, one at Chasewater on 9th-10th and finally the last bird at Blithfield on 23rd. W Mid In April, male birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR from 11th-13th and on 23rd, Penn on 15th, Sandwell Valley on 16th and Winson Green on 20th. In autumn, two were in Goscote Valley on August 16th, with one on September 6th, plus singles at Pelsall North Common on August 30th and Smestow Valley on September 11th.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra Uncommon or frequent, but much declined, summer resident, now mainly in north Staffs. Widespread on passage. Long-term average: April 24th (70) to October 10th (66). 8year average: April 17th (–7 days) to October 18th (+8 days). Arrival a little later than in recent years with the first on April 21st at Sandwell Valley. The last was on October 12th at Lower Moor; earlier than of late. Warks A fairly average spring passage with 12 recorded. The first record was of two at Kingsbury on April 30th, with two more at Charlecote GP and one at Fenny Compton on May 1st. Singles followed at Ryton Pools CP and Seeswood Pool on May 2nd, Fisher’s Mill on 3rd, Priors Hardwick on 5th and Ladywalk on 9th. A male sang at Shustoke on May 13th with the final bird at Baginton Airport on 14th. Return passage was poor with just 22 recorded (cf. 36 in 2005) from August 5th-October 3rd. The best count was just three at

149 Tysoe on September 18th, with ones or twos at Alvecote, Baginton Airport, Birchmoor, Bramcote Hall, Chesterton, Farnborough, Kenilworth, Marlcliff Hill, Radway, Salford Priors GP, Warwick Race Course, Weston-on-Avon and Wormleighton Res. Worcs A couple of birds at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 24th, were the first spring arrivals, whilst Upton Warren held four and Westwood Pool a male on 25th. A pair was at Lower Moor on 29th, then a female on May 5th and other May sightings comprised singles at Bittell Reservoir on 1st and 4th, Shenstone on 2nd, Holt Prairies on 3rd, Grimley New Workings on 4th and Westwood Pool on 16th. Returning migrants comprised one at Tilesford on July 22nd, one at Holt Prairies on August 6th, Gwen Finch Wetland held an estimated eight birds between 6th-September 12th, including two on August 27th and three on 31st, two were at Birtsmorton Pools on August 20th, whilst on Bredon Hill, one was noted on 20th, two on 21st, one on 25th and two on 28th. Grimley New Workings held two on 28th, then one from September 11th-14th, one was at Kinsham Lake on August 31st, one at British Camp on September 3rd and up to three birds were at Lower Smite Farm between 5th-12th, then singles here on 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 28th and 29th. Singles were reported from Wiseman’s Scrape on September 7th, Upton Warren on 9th, Bittell Reservoir on 10th and Abberton on 10th and 16th, Tilesford held three on 17th, one was at Shenstone on 18th, three at Throckmorton Tip on 24th and one near Sarn Hill Wood on 28th. Three birds observed in October, at Lower Smite Farm on 2nd, Gwen Finch Wetland on 4th and Lower Moor on 11th and 12th. Staffs First noted on April 23rd with two at Doxey and singles at Blithfield and Whitemoor Haye, spring migration proceeded with typically small numbers during April and May, the best of which was four at Berry Hill on April 26th. Other sites holding ones or twos were Aqualate, Belvide, Black Bank, Blake Brook, Chasewater, Kingswood, River Sow Meadows and Swynnerton. Sadly, there were no breeding records. The first return passage birds in July were a juvenile at Doxey (15th), Blithfield (19th) and a male at Whitemoor Haye (23rd). In August birds were seen at Aqualate, Belvide, Berry Hill (three on 31st), Black Bank, Blithfield (peaking at four on 26th and three on 27th), Cross plains, Essington Quarry Pool and The Roaches. Good numbers appeared in September, especially at Berry Hill where two at the start of the month rose to four on 5th-6th, 14th, 19th and peaked at seven on 15th. Elsewhere records included one at Blithfield on 1st, two juveniles at Gailey on 4th, two at Blithfield and one at Ingestre on 7th, three juveniles at Crossplains on 9th, one at Whitemoor Haye on 14th, Chasewater on 16th, Blithfield, Crossplains, Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits, all 17th, three at Aqualate, two at Black Bank and two at Denstone Hall on 19th and two at Silverdale Colliery on 21st. The last birds were one at Cuckoo Bank from 30th-October 1st and three at Berry Hill from 2nd-3rd. W Mid One was noted in Sandwell Valley on April 21st, with two on 23rd and singles on 25th and 27th. Individuals were also seen at Darby’s Hill on April 25th, Marsh Lane NR on 30th and Smestow Valley on May 2nd. In autumn, singles were noted at Marsh Lane NR on September 14th, Smestow Valley on 25th and Sandwell Valley on 26th and October 4th.

Stonechat Saxicola torquatus Uncommon resident, but frequent passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks About 20 were recorded during the late winter period, with four at both Bidford- on-Avon and in the Charlecote/Wasperton area, pairs at Brandon, Kingsbury and Weston- on-Avon, and singles at Birchmoor, DMC Kineton, Milcote, Napton Res, Salford Priors GP and Whittleford Park. A further 17 were noted on spring passage between March

150 14th-31st, mainly from the Tame Valley but also at Alvecote, Birchmoor, Brandon, Earlswood, Radway and with three in the Wormleighton area on March 31st. A late bird was at Warmington on April 18th. The first autumn migrant appeared at Brandon on September 1st, and was followed by a generally excellent passage during the period September 19th-November 8th with records from 27 sites. Maxima included three at Napton on October 13th, four at Radway on 15th, six at Brandon on 24th, nine at Salford Priors GP on 29th, ten at Ilmington Downs on November 3rd and four at Blythe Mill (Coleshill) on 5th. Subsequently 33 wintering birds were reported, distributed as follows: Birchmoor (four), Blythe Mill (two), the Charlecote/Wasperton area (six). DMC Kineton (two), Fisher’s Mill GP (two), Ilmington Downs (two), Ladywalk (one), Longbridge (five), Priors Hardwick (three), Radway (two) and Salford Priors GP (four). Worcs The only breeding records came from the Malvern Hills and Commons, where up to a dozen pairs held territories, including three broods and a total of 13 young observed on Hollybed Common and a brood of four in North Valley. Elsewhere singles were noted on Bredon Hill on April 6th and Throckmorton Airfield on 23rd. Singles, other than stated observed during the first winter period and early spring at Bishampton Vale Pool, Bittell Reservoir (two), Bredon Hill, Bredon’s Hardwick, Castlemorton Common (three), Grimley New Workings, Gwen Finch Wetland, Longdon Marsh, Lower Moor, Shenstone, The Dingle (two), Upton Warren and Westwood Park. During the autumn and second winter period, the best counts are shown in the tabulated localities, whilst singles or pairs were reported from Abberton, Bredon’s Hardwick, Defford Airfield (leucistic bird), Grimley Old Workings, Highwood, Kinsham Lake, Longdon Marsh, Lower Bittell Reservoir, Sugarloaf Hill, Table Hill, Tanwood, Throckmorton Tip, Upton Warren and Walton Hill.

Maximum site counts during the second winter period. Sept Oct Nov Dec Bredon Hill 4923 Bittell Reservoir –32– Castlemorton Common3432 Chat Valley 4322 Clifton Pits –33– Conderton Hill ––23 Gwen Finch Wetland –623 Grimley New Workings 22–3 Happy Valley 3362 Hollybed Common 644– Lower Moor –848 Lower Smite Farm 3511 Ryall Pits –31– Throckmorton Airfield 236–

Staffs Stonechats were seen widely throughout the year, albeit in smaller numbers in June, July and August, with particular breeding concentrations in the Cannock Chase area and the north-east of the county. Breeding was reported from several sites: Black Brook, Cannock Chase (seven+ pairs), Chasewater, Cuckoo Bank (two-three pairs), Drystone Edge, Hulme, Knotbury, Swallow Moss and Three Shires Head (two pairs). Looking at dates it is possible that at least some of the birds on the Chase had second broods. In the first winter period, some of the larger counts were as follows: in January 11 at the German Cemetery and five at Berry Hill, Doxey and River Sow Meadows; in February five at Doxey, four at Berry Hill and in March, 11 at Brocton Field, six at Berry Hill and four at Crossplains. Smaller numbers were present throughout this period at Aqualate, Belvide,

151 Black Bank, Blithfield and Chasewater. The first passage bird arrived at Berry Hill on September 14th and numbers peaked at 16 on October 15th. Thirty in the Katyn area of Cannock Chase on September 25th, the highest count this year, was probably composed mainly of resident breeders and their offspring. Post-breeding flocks at Cuckoo Bank were especially good too with 19 on October 14th and 28 on 21st, perhaps boosted by some passage birds and birds leaving the Chase. In November the best flocks were 12 at Brocton Field and Doxey; in December six at Cuckoo Bank and four at Doxey. Smaller numbers in the second winter period were seen regularly at Aqualate, Belvide, Blithfield, Croxall NR, Ingestre, River Sow Meadows and Tixall Bridge. W Mid Pairs bred successfully in Sandwell Valley (one pair, raising four young) and Sutton Park (perhaps two pairs). In Smestow Valley, two pairs remained from last year: one stayed until January 5th at least, with the male last noted on 22nd, and the other stopped until February 17th, with the female last seen on 6th March. At Marsh Lane NR, a male from 2005 was last seen on January 14th, though two males were present from March 12th- 14th and one on 27th. A pair remained at Sheepwash UP from January into March. Other sightings involved two in Goscote Valley on January 1st, two at Steelpark Way (Wednes - field) on 6th, singles at Cornets End Quarry on 14th and Aldridge Airport on 30th, two at Bowmans Harbour through February, one at Bartley Reservoir on March 10th, five in Sandwell Valley on 14th, singles on Netherton Hill on 20th and 29th, and two near Wassell Grove on 22nd. Autumn passage frequently saw single birds in Sandwell Valley from September 19th to October 13th, with six on 24th, three on 27th and four in November. Individuals were seen at Netherton Hill on September 16th and October 11th. In Smestow Valley, one accompanied a Whinchat on September 25th, three were present from October 5th-7th, with two staying until 9th, and a pair remained from November 24th until the end of the year. One visited Marsh Lane NR on September 30th. Four were noted at Sutton Park on October 8th at least. Individuals were seen at Bartley Reservoir on October 13th, 15th, 22nd and 29th, and November 6th, with two on 26th. One was in Goscote Valley on October 20th, with two on November 9th and December 13th. Six or seven were watched near Minworth on October 24th, whilst singles visited Dunstall Park on 24th and 31st, and Sheepwash UP from October until the year’s end. Two were at Steelpark Way (Wednes - field) on December 17th.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Frequent, but possibly declining, summer visitor, mainly to north Staffs. Fairly common and widespread on passage. One winter record. Long-term average: March 20th (69) to October 19th (70). 8-year average: March 10th (–10 days) to October 29th (+10 days). First arrivals were later than in recent years with the first on March 22nd on Bredon Hill. Last reported at Blithfield on October 23rd. Warks At least 136 were noted at 26 sites in spring, with the first at Whitacre Heath on March 25th and the passage extending to May 10th. Counts of three or more came from: Attleborough Fields, seven on April 30th and 14 on May 2nd; Baginton Airport, ten on March 29th, three on April 4th and five on 22nd; Birchmoor, three on April 19th and three on May 3rd; Draycote, three on March 28th, five on April 8th and three on 15th; Forshaw Heath, three on April 20th; Kenilworth, three on April 21st; Kingsbury, three on April 21st; Marlcliff Hill, four on April 21st; Napton, six on April 9th; Priors Hardwick, nine on April 25th; and Wishaw, seven on March 29th. Return passage spanned the period August 17th-October 13th but was relatively poor and few were noted before the end of

152 the first week in September. About 50 were recorded at just ten sites, with the only reports of more than two being three at Shustoke on August 17th, five at Draycote and five on the Fenny Compton Hills on September 7th, three at Draycote on 11th, three on Ilmington Downs on October 3rd, three on the Fenny Compton Hills on 8th and three again at Draycote on 10th, with the last there on 13th. The other sites to feature during this period were Alvecote, Brandon, Priors Hardwick, Radway, Salford Priors GP and Warwick Race Course. Worcs A pair nested successfully at British Camp and fledged two young. The first spring passage bird was observed on Bredon Hill on March 22nd and hereafter counts of eight were made on April 6th, two on 9th, nine on 10th, four on 14th, 10 on 15th, three on 20th and six on 29th. Walton Hill held one on March 23rd, six on April 15th, one on 16th, two on 18th and three on 20th, Grimley New Workings attracted a male on March 25th, which preceded a pair on 26th, one on 29th, three on 30th, one on April 9th, 12 on 21st and two on May 4th, singles were noted at Holt Prairies on March 25th and April 22nd, Lower Smite Farm held a male on March 31st and April 3rd, plus two between 8th-10th, one on 17th, four on 20th and a exceptional count of 23 on 21st and at Caunsall, a pair were present on March 31st, singles on April 3rd and 14th, four on 18th, six on 21st and singles on 22nd and 29th. A female was at Wassell Grove on April 2nd, then a pair on 4th and a male on 12th, Clent Hill held a male on 2nd and 4th, a female on 12th and one on 22nd, a male at British Camp on 3rd and 6th, preceded three on 7th, 17th and nine on May 3rd, Churchill held two males on April 3rd, one on 15th and two on 28th, whilst at Westwood Park, a male was noted on 3rd, two males on 7th, a female on 9th, a male on 18th and 19th, a pair on 21st and 23rd, then singles on 24th, 26th, 28th, May 2nd and 16th. At Bredon’s Hardwick, two females were observed on April 7th, a female on 9th, three on 13th and singles on 14th and 23rd, one was at Lower Moor on 10th, two at Tythe Barn farm on 11th, two at , one on Worcestershire Beacon and two at Woodrow on 12th and the latter locality also held two on 15th, seven on 16th, 10 on 17th, two on 21st, six on 28th, two on 29th and one on May 4th. Shenstone held two on April 13th and 16th, plus singles on 26th and 30th, Ryall Pits attracted one on 14th, nine on 21st, six on 23rd, three on 30th and two on May 3rd and 6th, singles were at Shorthorn and Throckmorton Lagoons on 16th, two at Saxon’s Lode Farm on 21st, whilst singles were at Whitehouse Farm on 22nd, Bishampton Vale Pool on 28th and Clifton Pits on May 1st. During August and September, Bredon Hill attracted a steady passage of birds, with singles present on August 8th and 16th, 10 on 20th, seven on 21st, six on 24th, two on 25th, five on 27th, one on 28th, seven on September 8th, two on 10th, eight on 15th, six on 21st and two on 23rd and 29th. Elsewhere one was at Abberton on August 13th, five on Worcestershire Beacon on 22nd and September 3rd, Grimley New Workings held one on 25th, then two on 28th and September 2nd, three on 3rd, two on 7th and singles on 23rd and 30th, Westwood Park hosted one on August 25th, two on 26th, singles on 28th and September 12th, two on 18th, one on 23rd, five on 29th and one was on Midsummer Hill on August 27th. British Camp held three on September 3rd and five on 5th, Lower Smite Farm two on 3rd, one on 4th and 8th, six on 11th and singles on 14th, 20th and 22nd, one was at Tanwood on 7th, one at Wiseman’s Scrape on 8th, one and three at Throckmorton Lagoons on 8th and 24th respectively, one at Lower Moor on 10th and 11th, one at Holt Prairies on 18th, two at Tilesford on 25th and one in Happy Valley on 30th and October 1st. Other October sightings comprised one at Lower Smite Farm on 1st, one at Upper Bittell Reservoir on 1st and 2nd, singles at British Camp on 2nd, 3rd, 7th and 8th, preceded two on 10th, one on 12th and two again on 13th and 20th, singles at Gwen Finch Wetland

153 on 2nd, 5th and 8th, one and three on Worcestershire Beacon on 6th and 8th respectively, one at Westwood Park on 9th and on Bredon Hill, six on 4th, preceded four on 7th, two on 9th, three on 10th and one on 20th. Staffs This species was seen in small numbers throughout the county between March and October. As in previous years the best site for spring migration was Berry Hill Fields; the first two birds were seen here on March 25th and double-figure numbers were recorded from 27th with 11, then 10 on 30th, 18 (on April 1st, 17 on 9th, 10 on 17th, 26 on 19th (the largest count), 18 on 21st) 11 on 26th and 10 on 27th. Silverdale Colliery/Black Bank also regularly produced double-figure counts in April with 15 on 7th, 21 on 9th, 23 from 10th- 11th, 16 on 12th, 12 from 13th-14th, 16 on 25th and 11 on 28th. Elsewhere there were 11 at Crossplains on April 9th, 11 at Blithfield on 10th, 14 at Doxey on 21st, 17 at Kingswood on 22nd, 10 at Whitemoor Haye on 23rd and 13 at Kingswood on 30th. The final passage bird was seen at Croxden Quarry on May 13th. Breeding was only confirmed at Bunster Hill and Musden Low (pair with three juveniles), but probably occurred at Black Brook, Drystone Edge, Knotbury, Oxensitch, Readyleach Green and Round Knowl Farm. This year the return migration was very small, with the first bird arriving at Berry Hill on August 3rd and a maximum of just eight birds there on September 5th and six on October 2nd. Most autumn sightings seem to have been at Blithfield with the last record of the year there on October 23rd. W Mid At Dunstall Park, fewer birds were seen than in recent years, with singles on March 26th and 30th, two on April 18th, four on 21st, and one on 22nd and 30th, and May 5th and 6th. In Sandwell Valley, there were three on March 28th and one on 29th, totals of up to eleven through April and the last two on May 5th. One or two birds were occasionally noted at Marsh Lane NR from March 28th to April 20th and at Sheepwash UP from March to May. Single birds visited Netherton Hill on March 29th, April 1st and 21st, with six in Goscote Valley on March 29th, two at Steelpark Way on 29th and one on May 15th, two at Blythe Valley CP on March 30th, eight at Wiggins Hill on 31st, three in the Foxcote area on April 10th and two on 14th, five at Darby’s Hill on 25th, three at Park Lime Pits on 30th and one at Clayhanger on May 3rd. One was recorded at Rood End Cemetery on the unusual date of June 29th. Return passage saw singles at Marsh Lane NR on August 13th and September 4th and 25th, Dunstall Park on August 18th and 26th, September 23rd and October 2nd, Netherton Hill on August 29th and September 9th, Reedswood Park on October 1st and Bloxwich on 4th.

Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe leucorhoa Rare or scarce passage migrant (9/10). Warks Spring passage produced a male at Salford Priors GP on April 23rd JJB, a male at Draycote ARD and a pair at Priors Hardwick on 25th JJB, and a female at Offchurch on May 28th PWo. On return passage a juvenile showing characteristics of this race was at Draycote on October 12th JJB. Worcs Birds showing characteristics of Greenland reported from Churchill, with a male present on April 28th TMH, a male at Saxon’s Lode Farm on 29th SMW, a male and two females at Clifton Pits on 30th SMW, a pair at Grimley New Workings on May 5th SMW and single males on Bredon Hill on 6th GHP and 9th RMa. Birds appearing intermediate between Greenland and Northern Wheatear in both size and plumage, comprised a male at Caunsall on April 22nd TMH, a male and two females at Grimley New Workings on 27th BRS et al, and a male was seen with both Northern and Greenland at Churchill on 28th TMH. These individuals were considered to be from the Icelandic breeding population of

154 leucorhoa and are sometimes referred to as Icelandic Wheatear. The only autumn report was of one on Bredon Hill on October 20th RMa. Staffs One showing good characteristics was photographed at Whitemoor Haye on May 15th JHa. W Mid Single birds of this race were noted occasionally at Marsh Lane NR from April 12th to May 3rd per NPB.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Scarce and declining, summer resident on the North Staffs Moors. Uncommon passage migrant. Very rare in winter. Long-term average: March 31st (50) to October 28th (44). 8-year average: March 27th (–4 days) to November 5th (+8 days) Arrivals were on schedule with one at Sandwell Valley on March 28th. The last was reported on November 5th at Salford Priors GP. Warks In spring there were single males at Compton Scorpion on April 9th ADW and Draycote on 20th TBr, with two males at Leek Wootton on 23rd ANR. A male at Salford Priors GP on November 5th JJB was the only autumn record. Worcs Bredon Hill held the first spring migrant, with a female present on April 4th and hereafter, three females and a male were noted on 6th, nine on 8th, 10 on 9th, six on 10th and one on 30th. Four males and a female frequented a valley east of Walton Hill between 8th-20th, with two still present on 21st and at Wassell Grove a male observed on 4th and 6th, preceded a female on 16th and 17th. Along the Malvern Hills, North Hill held a male on 7th, British Camp held a male on 8th and one on 27th, Happy Valley attracted two females on 14th, a male on 16th and four on 28th, whilst a females was on Table Hill on 16th. Clent Hill held a male on 27th. A reasonably strong return passage was recorded on the northern Malvern Hills, commencing with two in Happy Valley on October 12th. Worcestershire Beacon and West of England Quarry both held five birds on 15th, 13 were on Worcestershire Beacon on 16th, three and one in Happy Valley on 17th and 18th respec- tively and 15 on Worcestershire Beacon on 19th. One the 20th, Chat Valley and North Hill held singles, whilst four were in Happy Valley and five on Worcestershire Beacon. Two Ring Ouzel, Silverdale Colliery, Phil Jones were in Happy Valley on 21st, two on Worcestershire Beacon on 23rd and finally four in Happy Valley on 24th and 27th. The only other autumn records came from Bredon Hill, which held two on 16th, three on 20th and two on November 1st. Staffs There was a singe male at Berry Hill between March 30th and April 2nd and another at Chasewater on the 3rd. After this, a pair arrived at Silverdale Colliery on April 9th-10th to be joined by a female from 11th-13th, with two remaining until 16th, then one was in the Sherbrook Valley on 18th and a pair at Silverdale Colliery/Black Bank on 25th.

155 Birds were back in their traditional North-Staffs breeding ground by early April, a single bird being reported from the Roaches on the 6th and three at Knotbury on the 7th. Breeding was confirmed at Orchard Common with records at Knotbury and Three-Shires Head probably the same birds, but no juveniles were seen this year so presumably the attempt failed. As with last year, return passage was quite good, the first being seen at Burton-on-Trent on October 15th. After this, one at the White House on Cannock Chase on the 20th was joined by an exceptional four more until 22nd, four of these five remaining until 24th. The final bird of the year was recorded at Silverdale Colliery on the 29th. W Mid A male was seen in Sandwell Valley on March 28th-29th REH. April sightings involved singles Aldridge on 7th MHo, a female at Dunstall Park on 9th GAC and a male at Clayhanger on 15th-16th PDJ. In October, two were at Turners Hill from 16th-20th ICW and males were noted in Smestow Valley on 23rd and from 27th-30th GAC, KMC. Other reports included one at Lutley on April 1st, two at Merry Hill shopping centre on 18th and one flying over Lutley on October 16th.

Blackbird Turdus merula Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Territory counts included 12 at Brandon Marsh, 27 in 62 ha of Kingsbury Wood, 31 in 120 ha of farmland at Morton Bagot (cf. 27 in 2005) and 18 in 40 ha at Oldberrow (cf. 14 in 2005). In addition 46 were counted in the vicinity of Earlswood Lakes on June 30th. Counts of autumn migrants included 65 grounded by fog at Napton Res on October 13th, 40 at Lighthorne Quarry on 17th, 80 at Wormleighton Res on 22nd and 40 on Brailes Hill on 27th. There was a late influx of 70 at Lighthorne Quarry on December 1st. An unusual record involved a male carrying worms to a presumed nest site at Middleton Hall on November 26th, while at Fenny Compton two males were in full unseasonal song on January 3rd and one on December 2nd. Worcs Observed at many localities, throughout the breeding season, the best counts received comprised five nesting pairs at Bodenham Arboretum, 10 singing males on the Old Hills on April 28th and six singing males at Upton Warren on 29th. Knighton Common held 32 birds, mainly males, on January 4th, a Malvern Link garden attracted maximum counts of 15 in January and February, plus 12 in March, 15+ were noted in Happy Valley on October 20th and 15 at Little Comberton on November 19th. Staffs This species was recorded throughout the county but breeding was confirmed from only five sites; Denstone, Doley Common, Doxey (30 pairs, cf. 28 in 2005, 26 in 2004), Stafford and Weston Jones. Clearly breeding in this common species is under- recorded, although 26 at Himley Plantation in May would suggest breeding concentrations here too. In the first winter period, the larger flocks comprised 23 at Berry Hill on January 14th, 34 at Doxey on 15th, 20 at Caldon Canal (Ladderedge) 24th, then 34 again at Doxey on March 12th and 20 at Woodhead on 20th. Winter flocks did not appear in any quantity until mid-November, presumably because of the mild weather, with Doxey recording 19 on 12th, an impressive 51 on 19th, 27 on December 9th and 37 on 17th. Elsewhere in December 20 at Madeley STW on 6th rising to 24 on 13th, 20 at Kemsey Manor on 25th and 50 at Berry Hill on 27th. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 23 territories were identified, the smallest total since records began and further evidence of a continued decline compared to 25 last year and an average of 31.8 over the last 14 years. At least eight pairs were noted at Marsh Lane NR (cf. at least 12 in the area last year). Up to six birds together at Marsh Lane NR on February 3rd and November 11th were probably migrants as their presence coincided with

156 thrush passage. In the vicinity of Dartmouth Park, counts of 12 were made on October 17th and December 21st. In Coundon Wedge, numbers progressively increased through the year compared to counts made at similar times in 2005, with maxima of 58 in the first winter period (cf. 57 last year), 40 during summer (cf. 33 last year) and 75 in the second winter period (cf. 45 last year), presumably due to a combination of better breeding success and more migrants present later in the year. Other notable counts included 31 at Aldridge Airport on January 30th and 33 at Allesley Park on April 8th. No changes in status were noted at Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Bred North Staffs. Moors 1974-77, 1980 and 1985. Long-term average: October 2nd (71) to May 4th (70). 8-year average: September 28th (–4 days) to May 7th (+3 days) A late arrival compared with recent years with the first on October 4th at Brandon; the last seen on May 6th at Chapel Chorlton. Warks This attractive thrush was relatively abundant during the late winter period, with flocks of up to 500 well-distributed throughout the east and south of the county. Regular counts came from two localities, with Fenny Compton having monthly maxima of 600 on January 15th, 695 on February 27th, 1000 on March 11th and 85 on April 3rd. The Itchen Valley below Knightcote had maxima of 750 on January 16th, 650 on February 25th, 700 on March 25th and just 27 by April 8th. Maxima elsewhere included: 1000 at Tomlow on January 11th, 700 at Moreton Morrell on 25th, 750 at Charlecote on 27th and February 10th, 700 at Greys Mallory on February 5th; 600 at Wormleighton Res, 700 at DMC Kineton and 1000 at Farnborough all on February 21st; and 850 at Priors Hardwick on March 9th. North of Coventry flocks were much smaller and generally less than 100, but with two exceptions: 500 near Middleton Hall in early January and up to 700 at Alvecote during the first three months. Very few were seen after the second week of April, with the last spring records on 25th when there were two at Alvecote and three at Priors Hardwick. The first autumn reports were of ten at Brandon on October 4th and five south over Fenny Compton on 8th, but there was generally a late arrival and few others were seen before the last few days in the month. The better counts involved 60 at Maxstoke on October 18th, 40 at Draycote on 26th, 55 moving west at Brailes Hill on 27th and 139 at Priors Hardwick on 30th. The main influx commenced around November 1st with many flocks of 2-300 reported during the final two months in the Feldon and Avon Valley districts. The largest counts were (now traditionally) in the south-east, with Fenny Compton having monthly maxima of 530 on November 19th and 900 on December 23rd, and Wormleighton Res, 635 on November 6th and 1300 on December 31st. Other maxima included 550 at Wasperton on November 28th and December 12th, 480 at Priors Hardwick on December 15th, 800 at Knightcote on 16th, 550 at Chesterton on 19th and 450 at Hatton Rock on 30th. The best count in the north was only 200 at Whitestone, Nuneaton on November 3rd. Worcs During the first winter period, flocks reported included 50 at Croome Landscape Park on January 1st, 250 at Mount Pleasant on 18th, 170 at Arley Wood on 21st, 107 at Upper Arley on 29th, 120 at Oakley Pool on February 9th, 470 at Cleeve Prior on 21st, 1500 at Bredon’s Hardwick and 300 at on 26th and 200 at Lower Moor on 28th. March sightings comprised 50+ at Bushley, nine at Nash End and four at Upper Arley on 5th, 150 at Stoke Bliss on 11th, 700+ at Bredon’s Hardwick and 300 at Defford Airfield on 12th, plus 40 at Mount Pleasant on 25th. The only reports during April were of seven at

157 Phepson Farm on 6th and 25 at Ipsley Alders on 9th. A notable absence of returning birds during October, the first observation being made on 27th, when 19 arrived in Happy Valley. Two were noted on Bredon Hill on 28th and two at Castlemorton Common on 29th, whilst in November 40 were at Kinsham Lake, 50+ at Bittell Reservoir and 100 at British Camp, all on 2nd, 300+ at The Knapp on 3rd, 150 and 66 at Upton Warren on 3rd and 5th respectively, 100 at Lower Moor on 4th, preceded 150 on 24th, 250+ were on Bredon Hill on 5th, 250+ at Arrow Valley North on 12th, 150 at Longdon Marsh on 15th and 300 at Stoke Bliss on 27th. Two December counts received of 200 at Sheriff’s Lench on 4th and 190 at Little Comberton on 13th. Staffs Significant flock counts in the first winter period were reported as follows: in January; 400 at Whitmore Bent Lane on 1st and 500 on 15th, 200 at Doley Common on 6th, 160 at Keele University on 14th, 400 at Byrkley Park on 16th and 250 at Croxall on 27th; in February 350 at Alders Brook, including an albinistic bird for most of the month on 5th, 330 at Croxton on 8th, 800 at Hanchurch Woods on 13th, 150 at Kemsey Manor on 19th and 250 at Keele University on 25th; in March 150 at Croxall on 3rd, 200 at Tixall on 4th, 350 at Fauld on 12th and 200 at Hints on 23rd. As numbers began to dwindle in April, three-figure counts included 100 at Belvide on 3rd, 120 at Woodhead on 14th and 100 Weaver Hills on 15th. In May there were seven at Longton Mill Pond on the 1st, a single bird with Northern Wheatears at Apedale CP on the 3rd and 10 birds at Chapel Chorlton on the 6th. The autumn birds started to appear in low numbers from October 6th with six at Tittesworth, but the largest flock in the month was a meagre 40 at the Rifle Range. A large influx of 1100 was noted on passage over the Katyn Memorial area on November 1st, with 200 at Belvide on the same date. Thereafter, some sizeable flocks included 200 at Little Stoke, 464 at River Sow Meadows and 300 at Tixall Bridge on 4th, 200 at Aqualate on 10th, 400 at Wetley Moor on 11th, 200 at Alrewas on 12th, 400 at Tittesworth on 19th and 200 at Belvide on 28th. December numbers included 250 at Cuckoo Bank on 1st, 400 at Belvide on 11th rising to a staggering 3500 on 26th, 200 at Alrewas on 17th, 250 at Dunwood on 24th, 300 at Berry Hill on 27th and 500 at Tittesworth (date not recorded). W Mid During late winter, maxima included 100 in the Aldridge Airport area, 68 in Sandwell Valley, 60 at Chadwick End and 40 at Dunstall Park and Marsh Lane NR. In the second winter period, totals included about 400 over Reedswood Park on November 2nd, 663 over Smestow Valley on 3rd (a locality record), 70 over Dunstall Park on 10th, 150 at Marsh Lane NR on 14th and 17th, and a maximum of 67 in Sandwell Valley. Smaller numbers were noted at Alcester, Amblecote, Blythe Valley, Coundon Wedge, Hay Mills, Lutley, Oakham, Perry Barr, Priory Fields, Sheepwash UP and Sutton Park. Sky watch totals of Fieldfare in Smestow Valley October November 242728293031123410 1:30 1:50 2:20 2:45 1:15 1:50 1:40 1:25 2:05 1:20 1:05 hr:min –2413––2927866314357birds

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Much declined, though still abundant, resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Farmland census work produced three territories in 120ha at Morton Bagot (cf. five in 2005) and three in 40ha at Oldberrow (cf. two in 2005). Other spring counts included nine around Earlswood Lakes on April 20th and 12 at Brandon on 23rd. Birds showing characteristics of the nominate continental race T. p. philomelos were again widespread in the south of the county during the late winter period, with the last record being of a party

158 of six at Salford Priors GP on March 26th. Small numbers of autumn migrants began to appear in the southern hills from September 17th, and became numerous from early October. Among the larger counts were 25 at Wormleighton Res on October 10th, 50 at Napton Res after a foggy night on 13th, 55 at Lighthorne Quarry on 17th, 50 at Brailes Hill on 27th, 25 at Salford Priors GP on 29th, 33 at Priors Hardwick on 30th, 21 at Knightcote on November 11th, 40 at Wormleighton Res on 22nd and 30 at Charlecote GP on 28th. The species was noticeably abundant in the south-east during the early winter period, with many birds showing characteristics of the continental race arriving from late October. Worcs Very little breeding season data was received. Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum, two singing males were noted at Upton Warren on April 29th and three were singing at British Camp on July 27th. Ten were observed at Bockleton on January 4th and Happy Valley held six+ on September 10th and 10+ on October 20th. Staffs Although common, this species was recorded throughout in only small numbers. As with Blackbird, breeding was significantly under-recorded, records coming from just Bateswood, Bearda, Blake Brook, Doley Common, Doxey (12 pairs, cf. 15 in 2005), Rudyard Lake, Stafford, Tittesworth and Wombourne. Thirteen were noted on visible migration passing SW over Belvide on October 14th. Ten at Berry Hill and Doxey on November 19th were presumably as a result of a small influx of wintering birds. W Mid An estimated three pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR (cf. at least five territories in the area last year). Two territories were noted at Mons Hill CBC plot, the lowest number since surveys began and marking a continued decline compared to the average of 4.7 over the last 14 years. Birds were also noted in the breeding season at Aldridge, Allesley Park, Black Patch Park, Chadwick End, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Daisy Bank, Dorridge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools (eleven birds counted in May), Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Nailcote, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR (where most commonly seen on Netherton Hill), Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (four birds singing and a continued increase in numbers noted), Smestow Valley (at least nine heard singing) and Sutton Park. Eleven birds in Coundon Wedge on February 4th, ten at Stivichall Memorial Park on March 19th, eleven over Smestow Valley on September 25th and ten at Dunstall Park on October 20th undoubtedly included migrants.

Redwing Turdus iliacus Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor. Long-term average: September 27th (72) to April 19th (71). 8-year average: September 23rd (–4 days) to April 21st (+2 days). A late arrival compared to recent years on September 29th at Bredon Hill. The last was on April 28th at Baggeridge CP. Warks During the first quarter flocks of up to 100 were fairly widely reported throughout the county. At Fenny Compton monthly maxima of 250 on January 3rd, 225 on February 13th and 200 on March 11th were recorded. Casual counts elsewhere included 500 at Moreton Morrell on January 25th, 200 at Ufton Fields on February 19th, 150 at Bishop’s Gorse (Lighthorne) on 26th, 300 at Charlecote GP on March 10th, 550 at Knightcote on 25th and up to 200 at Alvecote during the same month. Only very small numbers continued into early April, with the last reported consisting of two flying north- east over Napton Hill on 9th and one at Alvecote on 13th. The first return migrants were two south at Fenny Compton and one at Brandon on October 8th. The first real movement of the autumn occurred during October 13th-17th when parties of 40-70 were noted in many areas and there were 105 at Lighthorne Quarry on the last date. After a lull the main

159 push began on October 25th, with a strong westerly movement noted across the county over the next few days. Counts on the 26th included a total of 2000 noted by an observer on a journey between Longbridge and Coleshill, 265 moving in an hour over Wormleighton Res, 500 over Radway and 225 over Brandon. On October 27th 328 passed over Brandon, with 320 over Fenny Compton on 28th. The species was relatively abundant during the following two months, with maxima of flocks feeding on berries along the Oxford Canal between Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res including 630 on November 12th, 750 on 22nd, 870 on December 14th, 750 on 23rd and 1100 on 31st. Other counts included 350 at Wasperton on November 28th, 200 at Ufton Fields on December 13th, 325 at Priors Hard - wick on 15th, 400 at Knightcote on 16th, 200 at Napton Res on 21st, 390 at Combrook on 27th and 220 at Charlecote on 30th. Flock size in the north appeared to be much smaller with few exceeding 100. Worcs During the first winter period, 23 were at Upper Arley on January 29th, 90 at Clifton-on-Teme on February 6th and in March 60 were noted on Midsummer Hill on 5th, 120 at Stoke Bliss on 11th, 400+ at Bredon’s Hardwick on 12th, 60 over Winyates Green on 15th and 200 at Eckington on 24th. The only September record came from Bredon Hill, where three were noted on 29th, whilst 150 were present here on October 16th. Other October sightings comprised three in Happy Valley on 1st, were followed by 40 on 15th and 20th, plus 1000 on 27th, small numbers were noted at both Broadway and Little Comberton on 16th, 89 at Lower Smite Farm on 17th and 20+ at Oakley Pool on 20th. From November, 60 were at Nimmings on 1st, 500 flew over British Camp on 2nd, 120 were at Lower Moor on 4th, 50 at Stoke Bliss on December 2nd and 40 at Upton Warren on 30th. Staffs Redwing flock sizes were generally smaller than those of Fieldfares and counts included; in January 200 at Doley Common on 6th and Whitmore Bent Lane on 15th, the largest flock of 350 at Byrkley Park on 16th and 164 at Keele University on 31st; in February 120 at Tittesworth on 6th, 260 at Croxton on 8th, 250 at Hanchurch Woods on 13th and 120 at Keele University on 25th; in March 200 at Tittesworth on 1st, 100 at Woodhead on 5th-6th and Doxey on 25th. Migration seems to have largely finished in March with a few trickling through in April, the last at Baggeridge CP on 28th. Autumn birds were not recorded until October 8th when six were at Little Stoke, then one at Beech on 10th and visible migration commencing on 12th with 13 over Chasewater and 44 over Black Bank. The first large flocks were reported on Cannock Chase – 200 in the Oldacre Valley on the 20th and 300 at the White House on the 22nd. Migrating flocks peaked in a very short period at month-end: 150 over Belvide and 200 over Biddulph on 27th, 745 over Belvide, 200 over Chasewater and 305 over Cuckoo Bank on 28th and ending with 147 over Belvide on 29th. During this period, 200 were noted at Berry Hill on 28th. The November maximum was just 100 at the German Cemetery on 5th and 55 at Doxey on 12th. December continued with small numbers, with 100 at Doxey on 9th, Wetley Moor on 17th and Berry Hill on 27th and 300 at Belvide on 26th. W Mid In the first winter period, larger flocks consisted of 130 in Coundon Wedge, 115 at Chadwick End, 80 in Sandwell Valley and 50 at Marsh Lane NR. Elsewhere, up to 40 were noted at Aldridge, Balsall Common, Black Patch Park, Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, , The Dingles, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, Hall Green, Hawne Park, Hay Mills, Hay Tor, Oakham, Olton Mere, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP, Slioch, Small Heath, Smestow Valley, Stivichall Memorial Park, Trittiford Park and West Bromwich. Strong passage occurred in late October, most noticeably with a county record total of 4380 passing over Smestow Valley during a skywatch from 07.45 to 09.35 on 27th and 2335 counted between 07.30 and 09.50

160 the next morning – the former count was just short of the Regional record of 5000 roosting at Maer (Staffs) in 1982/83. Sky watch totals of Redwings in Smestow Valley October November 242728293031123410 1:30 1:50 2:20 2:45 1:15 1:50 1:40 1:25 2:05 1:20 1:05 hr:min 80 4380 2335 656 262 84 21 151 222 67 – birds Elsewhere, about 500 flew over Reedswood Park on 25th and 110 were at Marsh Lane NR on 28th. Later in the winter, high numbers included up to 150 at Marsh Lane NR from December 28th-30th, up to 100 in Sandwell Valley, 57 at Fens Pools and 52 in Coundon Wedge. Also, flocks of up to 30 or so birds were seen at Acocks Green, Birmingham, Bournville, Dunstall Park, Kingstanding, Kingswinford, The Leasowes, Olton Mere, Penn, Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP, Stirchley, Sutton Park and West Bromwich.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Common resident. Warks Seven singing males were located in and around Oakley Wood on May 11th. Other breeding counts included three pairs in Charlecote Park and four at Pillerton Hersey, with three in the Knavenhill Wood/Ettington Grove area, three in nearby Ettington Park, and three in Ilmington village. A poor breeding season was noted in the south with many early broods lost. Second broods were possibly more successful, with small young still in the nest at Crimscote on July 10th. The best post-breeding flocks concerned 17 near Chesterton Church on August 9th, 18 at Alvecote on 19th, 35 at Middleton Hall on October 16th, and 15 at Ladywalk on 17th. Worcs Nesting pairs observed at Bodenham Arboretum (two) and Hollywood (three), a pair was noted at Hewell Grange on April 12th, three+ singing males were reported from Stoke Bliss on May 18th, plus 17 birds counted at the same locality on July 6th, whilst eight birds were noted at British Camp on 29th. Post breeding groups reported from Lower Moor, with 20 present on August 5th, Abberton held 52 on 13th, whilst on Bredon Hill, counts comprised six on 24th, 15 on 25th and 26 on September 8th. Six were on Bredon Hill on October 7th, one at Castlemorton Common on October 29th and three at Hollybed Common on November 11th. Staffs This year the species was recorded from 45 sites scattered throughout the County with breeding at nine; Aqualate, Byrkley Park, Doley Common, Doxey (three pairs, no change on 2004-5), Festival Park, Readyleach Green, Stafford, Tittesworth and Weston Jones. Singing birds were also noted at Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Burntwood, Bishop’s Wood, Rudyard Lake, Villa Farm and Westport. Post-breeding gatherings included 28 at Broad Heath on July 23rd, 32 at Berry Hill on August 27th, 32 at Westport on 28th, 40 at Essington Quarry Pool on 31st, 34 at Silverdale Colliery on September 16th, 40 at the Rifle Range on October 4th, 20 at Whitemoor Haye on 8th and 30 at Black Bank on 16th. W Mid One territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the same as last year, but still down on the average 2.1 over the last 14 years. Also present in the breeding season at Aldridge, Allesley Park, Bilston Cemetery, Black Patch Park, Chelmsley Wood, Clay- hanger, Coundon Wedge, Dudley Wood, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR, Nailcote, Olton Mere, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (some decline in numbers noticed), Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Wake Green, Walsall Arbore - tum and West Bromwich. Post-breeding/autumnal flocks consisted of 32 at Dunstall Park on August 19th and 18 in Sandwell Valley in October.

161 Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti Scarce resident, breeding only since 1993. Warks There were again seven breeding territories at Brandon BMCG, and singles at Barford MRM and Coombe Abbey PEH. In addition a pair bred successfully at Napton Res for the first time JJB, rearing at least three young and birds were here all year. A male in song at Salford Priors GP on April 23rd JJB but not subsequently, was the first for the locality. In the Tame Valley there was no repeat of last years breeding success at Ladywalk, with the only records from here referring to two on January 3rd and then a single bird on odd dates up to April 18th many observers. Another bird over-wintered at Fisher’s Mill GP where it remained (and occasionally sang) up to April 21st JHa, BLK. In the south of the county two were seen at Chesterton Church Pool on January 6th with one on several occa - sions up to March 28th JJB. At the other end of the year two were seen at Wormleighton Res on November 22nd and one was heard calling there on December 23rd JJB. Ladywalk again had a bird on December 19th per SLC. Worcs Four singing males were resident at Upton Warren, compared to six in 2005. No young were reported at the Moors Pools this year, but were almost certainly overlooked, though a family party frequented the Hen Pool reedbed during August AWa et al. The only other locality report came from Offerton Lane NR, where a singing male per SBl et al, plus a female BRS, SMW were discovered on April 12th. The male remained on site throughout the year, but no broods were recorded. Staffs Two birds were seen in suitable breeding habitat in the south and east of the county (sites and observers withheld).

Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Frequent, but much declined, summer resident and passage migrant. Long-term average: April 18th (70) to August 29th (60). 8-year average: April 10th (–8 days) to September 6th (+8 days). A typical arrival at Chasewater on April 9th and a very early departure date of August 19th at Brandon – though they are difficult to locate at this time of year. Warks Probable breeding territories were located at: Birchmoor (one, bred), Brandon (three, bred), Coton (one), Dosthill/Kingsbury area (six) and Lighthorne Quarry (two). In spring the first migrants returned to Kings - bury on April 12th and Brandon on 15th. Away from breeding sites passage birds also sang at Earlswood Lakes on April 20th, Fenny Comp - ton on 21st and Salford Priors GP on 23rd, while on 24th at least four sang at Brandon and three at Birchmoor. There was one return passage record, of a bird flushed from rough grassland on Warwick Race Course on July 28th. The last bird was recorded at Brandon on August 19th. Grasshopper Warbler in Staffordshire Worcs The first reeling male was reported 2001–03 (orange squares) from Lower Moor on April 15th and at 2004–06 (dots)

162 Castlemorton Common, one was heard on 17th and 18th, increased to two on 20th, then three on 22nd and four on 23rd. Between one and two male continued to sing here between 27th-July 22nd. Singles also heard at Lower Moor on May 31st, June 4th and July 6th, at Grimley Old Workings on April 19th and 20th, Midsummer Hill on 21st, Upton Warren on 23rd, The Dingle on 24th and at Longdon Marsh and the Wyche Cutting on 25th. Staffs Arriving in the county in early April as has been usual in recent years, it was first seen at Chasewater on the 9th being followed by records from Silverdale Colliery on 17th, Berry Hill on 19th and Whitemoor Haye on 22nd. A heartening trend has been the steady increase in numbers reported as breeding across the county since 2000 (see table), and there are now some 37 breeding birds located at nine separate sites.

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Breeding/Reeling on Territory 7 10 14 15 20 28 37 In addition, the accompanying map, which compares the distribution of all birds in 2001- 03 with those in 2004-05, shows a clear increase in distribution in the north and mid south of the county, but absence still in the far south-west and a large area to the east. Despite the increase in territories, birds only stayed until mid-July, the last being at Drayton Bassett on the 19th. The best sites for the species in 2006, with four reeling birds each, were Berry Hill, Drayton Bassett Pits and Wetley Moor. W Mid One noted in Sandwell Valley in April and seven in Sutton Park on June 14th.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Fairly common to common, though declining summer resident. Long-term average: April 16th (70) to September 30th (64). 8-year average: April 6th (–10 days) to September 28th (–2 days) An early arrival date of April 3rd at Kinsham but a late departure of October 10th at Gwen Finch. Warks Again there were conflicting reports of changes in abundance from different parts of the county. In the lower Avon valley between Bidford and Abbots Salford territories dropped to 11 (from 25 in 2005), while at Salford Priors GP in the nearby lower Arrow valley numbers increased from nine territories in 2005 to 20. On the other side of the county five territories were located in the Fenny Compton/Wormleighton Res area, compared to just one in 2005 (but cf. 14 in 2002). Other counts of singing males included ten at Brandon, at least 24 in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area, 14 in the Lea Marston/Coton Pools area and seven at Napton Res. In all breeding season records came from a total of 28 sites, down from 33 in 2005. In spring the first arrivals were noted at Ladywalk on April 14th and Brandon (two) on 15th. Passage records included a male singing in a village garden at Priors Hardwick on April 25th and a peak of 18 at Abbots Salford on 26th and 30th. Post-breeding dispersal was noted from July, when at least 15 were at Napton Res on 23rd and a juvenile hit an office window in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon on 26th. Good numbers remained through September until 24th, with the last records at Charlecote GP on 28th and Salford Priors GP on October 1st. Worcs Counts of singing males comprised two at Kinsham Lake on April 3rd, singles at Upton Warren on 5th and 10th, preceded three on 19th, 14 on 29th and five on May 9th and 27th. One was heard along the Bow Brook at Tiddesley on April 19th, 20 at Gwen Finch Wetland on 27th, one at Lower Bittell Reservoir on May 2nd, 10 at Lower Moor on 5th, six at Oaklands Farm on 7th, whilst at Upper Bittell Reservoir, one was noted on 9th, two on 29th and one on June 5th. Arrow Valley North held one singing male on May 14th and June

163 18th, one was at Feckenham Wylde Moor on May 20th, one at Holt Prairies on 23rd, two at Strensham Lagoons on 28th and four on Ashmore Common on July 26th. During the autumn, singles were observed at Gwen Finch Wetland on September 12th and Grimley New Workings on 13th, whilst three were noted at Gwen Finch Wetland on October 10th. Staffs This common species was found at some 30 sites throughout the county from April to September with most records coming from the more well-watched areas of Belvide, Doxey and Chasewater. First seen on April 16th at Belvide there was then a steady trickle of reports of birds in low numbers with small peaks of 19 at Doxey on April 23rd and Belvide on the 29th. Ten adults and 43 juveniles were ringed at Belvide, suggesting excellent breeding there. Birds were present and presumably bred at Alrewas, Apedale CP, Aqualate, Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Belvide, Berry Hill, Doxey (72 territories, cf. 85 in 2005), Handsacre Flash, River Sow Meadows (15+ birds), Tittesworth and Tixall Bridge. There were no autumn movement peaks and the last birds were at Berry Hill on September 19th and Doxey on 25th. W Mid At least 12 pairs bred at Marsh Lane NR, where a high of 15 birds sang in May. At least eight birds were present in Sandwell Valley during June and one was noted in Longmoor Valley (Sutton Park) on July 1st. Up to two sang at Sheepwash UP from Apr 22nd into May. Four sang at Blythe Valley CP on May 10th, with one at Olton Mere the next day.

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Fairly common summer resident. Long-term average: April 24th (66) to September 29th (60). 8-year average: April 19th (–5 days) to October 6th (+7 days). An early arrival on April 9th at Gwen Finch and late departure on October 12th, again at Gwen Finch. Warks Reported from 33 sites in the breeding season, with substantial numbers of singing males reported from: Abbots Salford (14), Fisher’s Mill GP (eight), Lower Radbourn (18), Napton Res (30), Newbold Comyn (at least ten), Offchurch Bury (eight), Salford Priors GP (28, a massive increase), Shipston STW (ten) and Wormleighton Res (15). Disappointingly there were again no full counts from the substantial colonies at Brandon, Coombe Abbey or Ladywalk. Other less usual sites where singing males were reported included: Armscote village (three), Barford, Bermuda, Billesley Pool (three), Knightcote, Mancetter Quarry (two), Newbold-on-Stour and Whittleford Park. The first spring migrant appeared at Brandon on April 17th, while autumn birds lingered generally until mid September. The last three reports were of singles at Lighthorne Quarry on September 25th, Dosthill Lake on 27th and Seeswood Pool on October 10th. Worcs Maximum counts of singing males came from Feckenham Wylde Moor (three), Gwen Finch Wetland (20), Hewell Grange (seven), Kinsham Lake (four), Salwarpe Canal (six+), Strensham Lagoons (two) and Upton Warren (10), whilst an adult and three young were observed along the River Avon at Evesham on August 26th. The first spring arrival was noted at Gwen Finch Wetland on April 9th and post-breeding sightings comprised four at Ryall Pits on September 9th, one at Hewell Grange on 15th, one at Grimley New Workings on 24th and finally one at Gwen Finch Wetland on October 12th. Staffs As is often the case with this species there was no large passage migration; scattered birds were appearing from mid-April at a variety of sites across the county, the first being two at Belvide on the 17th. Generally speaking the species was reported in very low numbers, the exception being at Belvide where the newly active ringing group found

164 150 birds and estimated that 17-20 pairs had bred, many appearing to have produced two or three broods. Concentrated effort of this kind seems to demonstrate that these birds are probably very under-recorded. Elsewhere, breeding reported at Apedale CP (eight territories), Copmere (six), Cuckoo Bank (adult feeding young), Doxey (17 pairs, cf. 20 in 2005), Festival Park Etruria (two-three) and River Sow Meadows (at least two pairs were successful). Regular summer sightings also came from Aqualate, Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Branston WP, Chasewater, Handsacre Flash, Tixall Bridge and Whitemoor Haye. The last birds were seen at Aqualate on September 28th and Belvide on October 1st. W Mid Birds bred at Marsh Lane, where an estimated 16 singing birds were noted, and Sheepwash UP, with two or three present. Probably also nested at Sandwell Valley RSPB reserve, where up to ten birds were noted. Likely migrants included singles at Saltwells LNR on May 9th and June 14th and 18th, two at Blythe Valley CP on May 10th and one in Coundon Wedge on 27th.

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Very common to abundant summer resident. Frequent and increasing winter visitor. Warks Sites with five or more breeding territories included: Abbots Salford (nine), Alcester (six along River Arrow), Brandon (12), Chessets Wood (seven along the ), Chesterton Pools (six), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (nine), Draycote (19), Fenny Compton (eight along the Oxford Canal), Kingsbury Wood (nine in 62ha), Kingsbury WP (ten), Lighthorne Quarry (five), Earlswood Lakes (11), Hampton Wood (ten), Oakley Wood (14), Oldberrow (seven in 40 ha), Ufton Fields (five) and Yarningale Common (13). Most comparable counts were similar to those in 2005. Good numbers of over-wintering birds were present during the first quarter with at least 21 reported (cf. 13 in the same period in 2005), with birds at Clifford Chambers, Fenny Compton, Keresley Newlands, Leamington Spa (six in two gardens), Lillington, Moreton Morrell (two), Nuneaton (five in four gardens), Radford Semele (two) and Stratford-upon-Avon (two in two gardens). The first apparent spring migrant was at Kingsbury on March 23rd, but with no more until 29th when there was one at Shustoke. The main spring influx commenced on April 3rd and Ladywalk had a peak of 15 on April 22nd. Return passage was most noticeable during September, with maxima of 17 at Charlecote GP on 8th and 18 at Wormleighton Res on 11th. There were still five on the Fenny Compton Hills on October 8th, with the very last apparent outgoing migrant at Brailes Hill on 27th. Winter migrants began arriving in early November, with 15 located at the following sites: Abbots Salford, Brandon (two), Combrook (three), Fenny Compton (two), Ladywalk, Nuneaton, Priors Marston, Radway and Wormleighton Res (three). Worcs Two pairs bred successfully at Bodenham Arboretum and reported as a common summer resident along the Dowles Brook. Singing males were recorded at Hewell Grange, where three noted on April 12th, preceded five on June 5th, six were counted along the canal at Hawford on April 14th, one was at West Malvern on 16th, four and six at Upton Warren on 19th and 29th respectively, five at Bittell Reservoir on 25th, nine on the Old Hills on 28th, increased to 11 on 30th and six were at Arrow Valley North on 30th. During the first winter period, a garden at Winyates Green held a pair throughout, a maximum of three were noted at Lower Moor between January-March and a Malvern Link garden attracted maximum count of three between January-March, plus two in early April. A male and an occasional female were observed in a Kempsey garden between January 1st-March 26th, Abberton held one on January 2nd, then two on 28th, one was at Crabbe Tree Farm on 2nd and 5th, singles in a Oakenshaw garden on 2nd, 6th and February 2nd, plus three

165 on 20th, a male in a Mount Pleasant garden on January 3rd, a male at Bickley on 4th and a male frequented a Barbourne garden from 6th-March 29th, whilst a second male was present on 25th. One was noted at Aston Somerville on January 22nd, a female at Winyates East on 29th, one at Throckmorton Lagoons on February 17th and singles at Hallow and Redditch train station on March 2nd. A female in Worcester on March 25th and one at Lower Smite Farm on April 9th, were more than likely to have been wintering individuals, than new spring arrivals. The only September records received were of two at Kempsey Common on 4th and five on Bredon Hill on 18th, whilst surprisingly, no birds were reported during October. Second winter period records comprised singles at Coombegreen Common, Grimley and Huntsbridge on November 11th, Grimley Old Workings on 26th, a St. Johns garden on December 3rd, Lower Smite farm on 4th and Abberton on 14th. During December, Kempsey Sewage Works held two on 16th and 30th, two were in Little Comberton churchyard on 17th and at Upton-upon-Severn Sewage Works, two males and a female were present on 17th and eight were trapped and ringed here on 24th. Singles reported from Evesham on 19th, Lower Moor on 20th and Stoke Bliss on 23rd, five in an garden on 24th, preceded four on 31st, a female in Bromsgrove on 15th, and a male in a Malvern Link garden on 26th and 27th and two at West Malvern on 29th. Staffs During the first quarter of the year, one or two birds were recorded at 15 sites, but there was no clear indication of when wintering birds left and spring migrants arrived. The largest group of passage birds was 10 at Gailey on April 22nd. Unlike 2005 there were no particular accumulations with the exception of Belvide where the activities of the ringing group produced 65. In late spring/early summer, 10 pairs attempted to breed at Doxey while 13 birds at Baggeridge CP comprised at least seven territorial males and there were 10 birds at Tittesworth. Five to six territories were logged at Alrewas, Belvide, Bishop’s Wood and River Sow Meadows. “Many” pairs were reported to have bred at Coombes Valley. Autumn groups peaked at seven at Chasewater on August 28th and 12 at Black Bank on 30th, numbers then tailing off until singles at Black Bank on October 4th and Chasewater 7th, presumably the last summer/passage birds. The first wintering bird arrived at Chasewater on 23rd with 16 sites thereafter holding one, occasionally two, birds. W Mid Six territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the lowest since records began and compared to seven last year and an average 9.9 over the last 14 years. Breeding season records were also received from Alcester, Aldridge Airport, Allesley Park, Balsall Common, Black Patch Park, Bloxwich, Blythe Valley CP (six singing), Brueton Park, Cannon Hill Park, Chadwick End, Chelmsley Wood, Coundon Wedge, Cuckoo’s Nook, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Fibbersley (four pairs), Haden Hill Park, Hampton Coppice, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR (estimated four pairs), Moseley, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Penn, Portway, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley (up to four pairs in the vicinity of Salter’s Lane), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley (15 singing in April), Sutton Park, Warrens Hall LNR, Whitley and Winson Green. During the first winter period, up to three were noted in gardens in Hall Green from January 1st to March 2nd, Monkspath from January 1st to March 12th and Dorridge from January 1st to early March, whilst three were seen at Hay Head Wood on January 30th. Singles were noted in Sandwell Valley in January, Halesowen on 3rd, Tilehouse on 4th, Harborne on 5th, Hill Hook on 7th, Solihull occasionally from 12th to March 23rd, Hay Tor from January 22nd to February 2nd, Kingswinford from January 23rd to March 23rd, Aldridge from January 24th until March 30th, Edgbaston on January 31st, Daisy Bank on February 1st, Coventry on 4th, Wordsley on 5th and 26th, Shirley from 17th-27th, Coombeswood on 17th-18th, Dorridge on 18th-19th, Worlds End on 19th and Smestow Valley on March 8th. In the

166 second winter period, singles visited a Bilston garden on November 12th and Acorn Barn on 25th. In Sandwell Valley, there was a male on 29th-30th, a female on December 14th and perhaps the same pair on 15th. Singles were at Goldthorn Hill on 7th, Dorridge on 13th and 17th, Marsh Lane NR and Shirley on 17th and Bloxwich on 22nd, with a pair at Lower Penn on 24th and individuals at Kingswinford and Tilehouse from 28th-31st, Solihull on 29th and Westwood Heath on 31st.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin Fairly common to common summer resident. Long-term average: April 21st (69) to September 15th (68). 8-year average: April 13th (–8 days) to September 24th (+9 days) First arrival on April 14th at Croxall; the last being on September 30th at Radford Semele. Warks Sites with three or more territories during the breeding season were: Brandon Marsh (12), Chesterton Pools (four), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (12), Draycote (five), Ettington Grove area (three), Fenny Compton (three along the Oxford Canal), Idlicote Hills (five), Kingsbury WP (five), Ladywalk (five), Nunley Test Track (three), Ufton Fields (four), Ryton Wood (three) and Wormleighton Res (nine, cf. five in 2005). The first spring bird was noted at Brandon on April 21st and the last at Radford Semele on September 30th. Worcs A notable increase of singing males recorded in the county this summer, compared to the previous five-year trend. Birds were reported from 37 localities, whereas just nine sites held singing males in 2000, between 27-29 from 2001-2003, 19 in 2004 and 23 in 2005, though still falls short of totals recorded in the late 1990s viz. 48 localities in 98 and 40 in 99. A pair accompanied three juveniles at Nafford Lock on June 27th, whilst multiple locality counts of singing males comprised three at Lower Moor on April 29th, followed by five on May 6th and four on June 8th, Dowles Brook held four on April 30th, then eight on May 11th, three were at Kyre Pool on 5th and July 13th, two on Walton Hill on May 6th, four at Wyre Piddle Business Park on 8th, two at Stoke Bliss on 20th and several on Chase , plus two in Langdale Wood on June 2nd. The Rifle Range held two and three were in Trench Wood on 3rd, two in Monk Wood on 8th, three at Devils Spittleful on 24th and three at Shatterford Wood on 26th. Singles also reported from Arrow Valley North, Birchen Coppice, Bittell Reservoir, Brazier’s Coppice, Callow Hill, Church Lench Pools, Cofton Richards Farm, Hanbury Hall, Hollybed Common, Hollybush Quarry, Marsh Common, Midsummer Hill, Mill Shrub Pool, Nash End, Old Hills, Stony - ford, Strensham Lagoons, Sugarloaf Hill, The Gullet, Throckmorton Tip, Tiddesley Wood, Upper Arley, Upton Warren, and Wyche Cutting. Autumn sightings com - prised four at Croome Landscape Park on August 6th and singles at Kinsham Lake on 27th and Bredon Hill on 30th. No reports were received during September. Staffs The first was at Croxall on April 14th then a gap until mid-April before a steady trickle of records began to appear throughout the county. The only real spring peak was of five birds, seen at Bishops Wood on the 27th. It was not recorded in great numbers during the breeding season, the best being 15 at Tittesworth on May 5th with eight at Park Hall CP on the 10th and 10 on June 4th. Confirmed breeding was as follows: “many” bred at Coombes Valley, five at Doxey, one at Copmere, Doley and Tixall, and two at River Sow Meadows. At Belvide, the ringing group ringed 25 juveniles, suggesting about four pairs bred. Many other sites reported singing birds. Autumn migration mirrored spring with small numbers throughout August and the last two records in September; at Belvide on the 2nd and Doxey on the 16th.

167 W Mid Singing birds were heard at Blythe Valley CP (four singing in May), Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Dunstall Park, Marsh Lane NR (four birds in June), Marston Green, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park and Westwood Heath.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Fairly common summer resident. Two winter records. Long-term average: April 22nd (70) to September 24th (70). 8-year average: April 17th (–5 days) to October 4th (+10 days). An early arrival on April 2nd at Alvecote and a typical departure on October 9th at Byrkley Park. Warks Counts of breeding pairs in the south and east of the county included eight at Fenny Compton (cf. 12 in 2005), seven at Priors Hardwick, and four at both Morton Bagot and Wormleighton Res. Generally numbers were thought to be around average or slightly down in most areas. Sketchy reports from the northern half of the county suggest a better year there, with five singing at Kingsbury and four or five at Brandon the best counts. In addition, a bird at Birchmoor on May 4th was the first recorded at this site in spring by the observer in 14 years. A singing male at Alvecote on April 2nd MAA et al was the earliest ever in the county by one day. No more were recorded until April 22nd when birds appeared at three sites, with the main influx commencing around the 26th. Return passage was extremely light with no real concentrations recorded, presumably due to the fine weather. The last was noted at Wormleighton Res on October 1st. Worcs The county continues to sustain a healthy population throughout. Two pairs bred successfully at Little Comberton and good numbers were observed at Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor and Throckmorton Tip during the breeding season. Elsewhere, maximum locality counts of singing males comprised two at Arrow Valley Lake, five on Bredon Hill, three on Castlemorton Common, three on Hollybed Common, eight at Huntsbridge, two at Knightwick, three at Longdon Marsh, two at Powick Ham, two at Stoke Bliss, three at Upper Bittell Reservoir and two at Upton Warren. Single songsters also reported from Bredon Hill, Bredon’s Hardwick, Coombegreen Common, Feckenham Wylde Moor, Hollybush, Lydiate Ash, Marsh Common, Offerton Lane NR, Ryall Pits, Spring Lane Industrial Estate and Upper Arley. The first birds of spring were reported from Castle - morton Common and Offerton Lane NR on April 22nd, whilst autumn reports comprised singles at Elmley Castle on August 30th, Birtsmorton Pools on 6th, Upton Warren on September 16th, Grimley New Workings on 17th and Lower Moor on 19th. Staffs First record of the year was a single bird at Belvide on April 22nd and there was then a steady trickle of reports from the more well-watched sites for the rest of the month, the most being three at Doxey and Branston Water Park. Breeding was confirmed at Berry Hill, Coombes Valley, Doley Common and Waterfall but singing/territorial birds were also reported from Aqualate, Black Bank (two), Branston GPs, Dilhorne, Doxey (three), Ingestre, Mobberley, Sideway (Stoke), Waterhouses, Weston Jones, Wolfscote Dale and Woodhead. Autumn migration tended to produce birds in twos and threes rather than the ones and twos of spring but with four at Berry Hill on August 17th, six at Black Bank 18th- 24th, six at Belvide on 23rd, four at Blithfield on 27th and Belvide on 31st. There were then a few records in the first half of September ending with two at Doxey 16th-17th, then a gap before the final bird at Byrkley Park on October 9th. W Mid Singing birds/breeding season records came from Birmingham Business Park, Blythe Valley CP, Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Marsh Lane NR, Park Lime Pits, Rowley Regis, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Solihull, Sutton

168 Park and West Bromwich. Noted in autumn at Marsh Lane NR, Saltwells LNR and Sandwell Valley.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis Very common to abundant summer resident. Long-term average: April 15th (72) to September 29th (72). 8-year average: April 10th (–5 days) to October 1st (+2 days). First seen on April 5th at Evesham and, apart from a late straggler at Kingsbury on October 27th, the last was Berry Hill on October 2nd. Warks An average season with counts of seven or more territories coming from: Abbots Salford (ten), Birchmoor (seven), Brandon Marsh (19), Charlecote GP (seven, cf. 11 in 2005), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (16), Dosthill/Kingsbury area (24), Draycote (eight), Haseley (seven in 7 ha of rough meadowland, cf. six in the same area in 1999) and Morton Bagot (ten in 120 ha, cf. 13 in 2005). The first spring birds were noted at Brandon on April 14th and Nuneaton on 16th. Concentrations on return passage were few but included ten at Wormleighton Res on August 7th and seven flushed from a small patch of Fat Hen Chenopodium album at Salford Priors GP on September 10th. The last autumn bird was noted at Wormleighton Res on September 26th, apart from a very late straggler at Kingsbury on October 27th. Worcs Singing males were reported from 53 localities from across the county, the first spring arrival being observed at Evesham on April 5th. The best counts were of seven singing at Bittell Reservoir, seven at British Camp, seven along Broadway disused railway, five on Castlemorton Common, eight+ on Hollybed Common, eight at Ipsley Alders, four on Kempsey Common, 10 at Lower Moor, five at Lower Smite Farm, eight at Oaklands Farm, 24 on the Old Hills, 14 at Throckmorton Tip and 15 at Wyre Piddle Business Park. The final observation of the year came from British Camp, with one present on September 17th. Staffs This very common and conspicuous bird was seen at over 70 sites throughout the county. First noted at the German Cemetery (Cannock Chase) on April 10th and Belvide on 14th, the species demonstrated a good solid spring migration with maxima of 13 at Doxey Marsh on April 23rd and 10 at Belvide on the 29th. Best breeding season numbers were recorded at Berry Hill (20), Park Hall CP (20), Alrewas (17), Doxey (14) and Belvide (two adults and 14 juveniles were ringed) with summering birds from 59 other sites. The autumn migration was a quieter affair, most records being of single birds with peaks of 10 at Black Bank on September 1st and five on the 7th. Birds were seen regularly until September 19th, the final birds being at Black Bank on 22nd and Berry Hill on October 2nd. W Mid Breeding season records came from Blythe Valley CP (eight singing in May), Chadwick End, Darby’s Hill, Dorridge/Hockley Heath area (four birds in June), Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Fibbersley (three pairs), Harborne NR, The Leasowes, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR (at least seven pairs), Mons Hill CBC plot, Moseley, Park Lime Pits, Portway, Rotton Park, Rowley Regis, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley (at least 12 pairs bred in the vicinity of Salter’s Lane), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Turners Hill, Warrens Hall LNR and Wolverhampton Ring Road. One noted in a Monkspath garden on September 23rd.

Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata Rare winter visitor and breeder (7/10). Staffs Three territories were located on Cannock Chase with probably two pairs

169 breeding. Incredibly, a pair was located on the North Staffs Moors in May but only on a single date (observer and location withheld). W Mid Two pairs were present at the same site as last year, but were only noted in spring PH, though three birds were seen on June 16th PA H , with singles on July 1st, October 8th and December 30th IBu, TCH, ATh et al.

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Very rare vagrant (7/10). Staffs The bird discovered at River Sow Meadows, Baswich in December 2005 was relocated between there and Weeping Cross on New Year’s Day and remained until February 10th RSw et al.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Frequent, though declining, summer resident, now mainly confined to the north and west of the region. Long-term average: April 22nd (70) to August 27th (57). 8-year average: April 22nd (=) to August 28th (+1 day) First seen on the early date of April 17th at Dimmingsdale and last recorded on the rather late date of September 5th at British Camp. Warks A single bird at Draycote on May 3rd RCM et al was the only report. Worcs After last year’s dramatic fall in numbers along the Dowles Brook, it was a great relief to see totals back to their former level. Five singing males were noted on April 30th and thereafter a maximum of six were heard throughout the breeding season. A pair was observed collecting nesting material beyond Lodge Hill Farm on May 4th and singles were also reported from the Wyre Forest at both Rock Coppice and Park Brook on June 29th. Along the Malvern Hills, it has been absent as a breeding species for over 10 years, though reports of singing males during spring passage have recently increased and it is hoped it will re-establish as a breeding species in the very near future. Singing males observed on the Malverns during spring comprised one on Raggedstone Hill on April 21st, two at Hollybush on 30th, one on Swinyard Hill on May 14th and 17th and one in Happy Valley on 23rd. A singing male was observed in Habberley Valley on April 24th and elsewhere, spring passage birds were heard at Cleeve Prior on April 21st, Winyates Green on 22nd, Westwood Pool on 24th and the Old Hills on 28th and 29th. A single bird reported at British Camp on September 5th, was the only autumn record received. Staffs After a first report from Dimmingsdale on April 17th, two to three were seen regularly at Seven Springs from 23rd. In addition, there was one at Baggeridge CP (in May), two in Sherbrook Valley on April 30th, two at Stepping Stones on May 3rd, four pairs bred at Coombes Valley (after several blank years), five territories at Dimmingsdale, one pair possibly bred at Hawksmoor, one at Highgate Common on April 26th, one at Kingswood on May 14th, two territories at Kinver Edge and two at Tittesworth on June 3rd. There were just two post-breeding records: Belvide on July 15th and Berry Hill on August 16th. W Mid Singles were seen at Sutton Park on May 11th and 28th, and Marsh Lane NR on July 31st – only the second record for the site.

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Very common summer resident and uncommon winter visitor. Warks Counts of singing males during the breeding season included: Bidford-Marlcliff

170 (six), Brandon (13), Chessetts Wood (13 along the Grand Union Canal), Chesterton Pools (eight), Earlswood Lakes (eight), Fenny Compton (seven along the Oxford Canal), Oakley Wood (eight), Oldberrow (six) and Yarningale Common (seven). Repeat counts suggest a similar population to last year. Good numbers of wintering birds were again concentrated along the River Tame between Ladywalk and Coleshill STW, with a maximum of 11 recorded on January 8th. Elsewhere at least 19 others were reported during the first quarter, from: Alcester STW, Alvecote, Brandon (two), Charlecote GP, Coton, Dosthill area (two), Draycote (two), Farnborough Park (two), Fenny Compton, Hampton Lucy, Hartshill STW (at least three), Kingsbury WP and Salford Priors GP. Spring migrants were generally late to arrive with very few recorded until the main influx began on March 27th. The earliest were singles at both Fenny Compton and Wormleighton Res on March 12th, but the first in the north did not appear until 19th, when four were at Coton. Despite the scarcity of other migrants, good numbers of birds were reported in the post-breeding period. Site maxima included 12 at Chesterton Pools on August 18th, ten at Brandon on 29th, 25 at Abbots Salford on September 10th, ten at Draycote on 13th, ten at Seeswood Pool on 14th, 15 at Salford Priors GP on 17th, 35 at Wormleighton Res on 23rd, 18 at Lighthorne Quarry on 25th and 16 at Charlecote GP on 28th. Passage continued fairly strong until about October 17th, with a daily trickle of birds up to the last migrant recorded at Wormleighton Res on 31st. Four at Dosthill Lake on November 6th were presumably incoming winter birds, and subsequently about 19 were reported, from: Abbots Salford, Brandon (two), Charlecote GP (two), Coton (two), Draycote (two), Fisher’s Mill GP, Hams Hall/Ladywalk (two), near Kenilworth, Lea Marston, Longbridge STW (two), Packington, Salford Priors GP and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Good numbers arrived in the county on March 28th and the highest counts of singing males comprised three at The Gullet on 29th, six at Upton Warren between 29th- April 29th, nine in Happy Valley on 2nd, three at Bittell Reservoir, six at Grimley New Workings and four at Grimley Old Workings on 4th, three at Trimpley Reservoir on 5th and along Dowles Brook, three on 8th preceded 10+ on 15th and 22nd, plus 15+ on 23rd. Elsewhere, Lion Wood held four on April 9th, six and five were at Hewell Grange on 10th and June 5th respectively, five along the canal at Hawford on April 14th, the Old Hills held counts of seven on 22nd, 13 on 28th and 19 on 29th and three were at Feckenham Wylde Moor on May 20th. During the first winter period, Lower Moor Sewage Works attracted maximum counts of eight in January, 12 in February and 19 during the first half of March, whilst at Kempsey Sewage Works, four were noted on February 12th, five on 26th and one on March 5th. One was at Oakley Pool on February 27th and three at Upton-upon-Severn Sewage Works on March 3rd. During the autumn, Bredon Hill held 20 on September 4th and 15th, 40 on 19th, 20 on 22nd and 25 on 29th, whilst in Happy Valley, a strong passage of 100+ birds recorded on 17th and October 1st preceded smaller counts of 12 on 3rd, three on 15th and two on 17th. Second winter period sightings comprised one at Grimley on October 29th, November 2nd and 3rd, followed by two on 11th and singles on December 3rd, 27th, 28th and 31st, maximum counts of three and seven at Lower Moor Sewage Works in November and December respectively, whilst singles were noted in Happy Valley on November 4th, Hewell Grange on 13th and Grimley Old Workings on 19th. Two were at Broadway Gravel Pits on 23rd, one at Bredon’s Hardwick on December 8th, Kempsey STW attracted three on 14th, four on 17th, five on 27th and six on 30th, whilst Upton- upon-Severn STW held six on 17th and five, including a bird ringed in Holland, were trapped on 24th. Holt also held a single bird on 27th. Staffs In the first winter period, birds were seen at Brancote STW (three), Chasewater,

171 Dosthill (two), Doxey, Drayton Bassett Pits (four), Kinver, River Sow Meadows (two) and Tamworth. Spring migration probably commenced on March 25th with two at Belvide and Draycott-in-the-Clay and one at Keele University, with numbers building up thereafter and peaking at 11 at Doxey on April 9th and 18 at Tittesworth on 15th. During the breeding season the best reported sites were Bishop’s Wood, (15 territories), Belvide (10-12), Doxey (13) and Hanchurch Woods (eight). The Belvide Ringing Group ringed 115 birds of which 95 were juveniles. In the autumn, double-figure falls of passage birds comprised 10 at Blithfield on August 26th, 16 at Byrkley Park on 29th, 10 at Belvide on September 14th, 12 at Blithfield on 16th and 12 at Doxey on the late date of October 14th. An unusually pale bird was seen at Croxall GP on December 18th RJJ which may represent a non-British subspecies. Other sites holding wintering birds included Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Barton GP, Bednall, Belvide, Berry Hill, Black Bank, Byrkley Park, Dosthill (two), Doxey (three), Drayton Bassett Pits (four), Madeley STW, Norbury Bridge and River Sow Meadows. W Mid Just one territory was recorded at Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to six last year and well down on the average of 5.5 over the last 14 years. Also noted in the breeding season at Allesley Park, Balsall Common, Birmingham, Black Patch Park, Blythe Valley CP, Brueton Park, Castle Vale, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, Hampton Coppice, Harborne NR, Hawne Park, Hobbs Hole, The Leasowes, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR (at least four territories), Marston Green, Nailcote, New Invention, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Priory Fields (six birds late March), Rotton Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley (eight birds in April and May), Sheepwash UP (one or two pairs), Smestow Valley, Stivichall Memorial Park, Sutton Park, Warrens Hall LNR, West Bromwich, Whitley and Winson Green. Wintering birds included singles in Sandwell Valley on January 29th and February 10th, Smestow Valley on December 11th and 19th, and Saltwells LNR on 21st. Recorded at Sheepwash UP during every month.

Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita abietinus Worcs Kempsey STW held two on February 12th SMW, singles on 17th and 18th SMW and one from December 21st-31st AWa, SMW. The only other report came from Lower Moor, where one was observed on December 31st SMW.

Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis Warks A single bird showing the full suite of characters of this subspecies, as well as the characteristic call note, was watched at Salford Priors GP on December 17th JJB, and was seen again there in early 2007.

Eastern type Chiffchaff Warks A greyish individual was photographed at Ladywalk in mid-December NGr. Worcs Lower Moor Sewage Works and surrounding area held one from February 7th-28th RAP and one from December 21st to the years end, being joined by a second on 31st RAP. A particularly pale bird was found at Kempsey Sewage Works on December 12th SMW et al. and was joined by a second, almost identical looking individual on 17th SMW et al. and both remained on site to the years end. It was noticed, that from late February, both birds showed an extensive olive hue to the upper-parts, including on the mantle, plus a photograph, showing the under-wing coverts of one of these birds, revealed yellow far more extensive then would be ideal for true tristis. The calls from both birds

172 were of tristis, plus the distinctive song was heard on a several occasions during January and February 2007, as was mixed singing (chiff chiff chaff, followed by tristis song) on one occasion. Due to the extensive olive and yellow colourations mentioned above, plus mixed singing, it seems unlikely these birds were true Siberian Chiffchaffs. A third, darker bird was trapped at Kempsey Sewage Works on December 24th WRG et al. and was still present on 31st. All the above birds were considered to be either from the eastern population of abietinus, abietinus x tristis, or possibly true tristis.

Willow Warbler X Chiffchaff Warks A bird singing a song with mixed species characteristics was at Temple Pool, Upton from at least May 1st-4th PDou, RJE. A bird with a similar song found just 5 km to the south-south-west at Winderton Warren in June 2005 may well have been the same individual. Worcs Birds giving mixed song reported from Offerton Lane NR on April 15th and 22nd and Upton Warren between June 22nd-26th.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Very common to abundant, but declining, summer resident. One winter record. Long-term Average: March 27th (72) to October 8th (72). 8-year average: March 24th (–3 days) to October 8th (=). A very early arrival on March 8th at Doxey preceded the main arrivals at the end of the month. Last seen on October 16th at Fenny Compton. Warks Sites which held six or more breeding territories included: Bidford- Marlcliff (six along River Avon), Brandon (23), Chesterton Pools (12), Coton/Lea Marston Pools (20 in area), Dosthill/Fisher’s Mill GP area (12), Draycote (18), Fenny Compton (27 along 1.5 km of the Oxford Canal), Kingsbury Wood (ten in 62ha), Priors Marston (14 in 75ha of young forestry) and Whittle- ford Park (six). It was also reported to be abundant in June around Nunley Test track at Honiley. At Brandon it was reported that although numbers were high in the spring the breeding season was subsequently poor with less than half the usual number ringed. The first spring migrant was noted at Brandon on March 27th, with birds noted at four other sites on succeeding days until the main influx began on 31st. Counts on spring passage included 17 at Worm - leighton Res on April 7th, 12 at Kingsbury WP on 15th, 20 at Ladywalk on 18th and 30 at Draycote on 19th. Post- Willow Warbler, Westport, Dave Kelsall breeding counts included a fall of 18 at Wormleighton Res and 11 at Fenny Compton STW

173 on August 7th, and ten at Seeswood Pool on 24th. Autumn migrants continued to be reported regularly until the last bird was seen at Ilmington Downs on October 3rd. Subse - quently there were two late migrants, at Brandon on October 14th and in a Fenny Compton garden on 16th. Worcs Numbers up on recent years along the Dowles Brook, with 10+ singing males reported between April 15th-May 23rd, then 15+ on June 13th. Elsewhere singing males reported from many localities from across the county, the best site counts being five at Arrow Valley North, six at Beoleylade, five at Bittell Reservoir, 10 at British Camp, 10+ at Burlish Top, nine in Happy Valley, three at Ipsley Alders, six at Lower Moor, nine on the Old Hills, 10 at Throckmorton Lagoons, five at Upton Warren, 10 on Walton Hill and eight at Wyre Piddle Business Park. The first spring arrival was noted at Upton Warren on March 29th and post-breeding sightings comprised six at Croome Landscape Park on August 6th, Bredon Hill held 10 on September 4th, then two on 18th and one on 22nd, Happy Valley held 40+ on 10th and 17th, plus 25+ on October 1st, whilst singles were observed at Winyates Green on September 12th and at Upper Bittell Reservoir on October 1st. Staffs Although the first Willow Warbler was heard singing at Doxey on March 8th, the next was not until 28th at Wolseley Bridge. Significant numbers of migrants were not reported until well into April when 15 were seen at Chasewater on the 14th, 25 at Tittes - worth on the 15th, 12 at Kinver Edge on the 23rd, 14 at Highgate Common on the 26th and 41 at Bishops Wood on the 27th. During the breeding season the best sites were Hanchurch Woods and Park Hall CP, both with 20, Doxey (18), Coombes Valley (14) and at Bateswood NR (six pairs) and Tittesworth Reservoir. Apart from an early accumulation of 18 at Doxey on August 18th the autumn migration was quite quiet, with a maximum of six birds reported at Tittesworth on September 8th and at Doxey on the 17th. The final sighting of the year was of two birds at Doxey on October 1st. W Mid Singing birds were noted in the breeding season at Aldridge, Chadwick End, Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools (ten birds in April), Fibbersley (three or four pairs), Hampton Coppice, Harborne, Marsh Lane NR (estimated four pairs), Marston Green, Monkspath, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley (nine counted in April), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Stubbers Green, Sutton Park, Warstock, West Bromwich, Whitley, Winson Green and Worlds End. However, just one was heard singing along an eight mile transect of the Stratford-upon-Avon and Worcester and Birmingham from Warstock to Edgbaston in May and June. For the second year running, none were noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, where up to three pairs bred regularly until 1998.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus Very common resident and winter visitor. Warks Eight territories were located in deciduous, Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur dominant, woodland and scrub at Yarningale Common. Four territories in 40 ha at Oldberrow compares to three in 2005. Outside the breeding season parties of up to a dozen were widely reported. The largest counts involved an influx of 25 along the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on September 23rd, 18 at Napton Hill on October 13th and at least 70 in Oakley Wood on December 9th. Worcs Very little breeding season data was received, with single breeding pairs reported from Evesham and Worcester, plus a singing male was observed at Little Comberton on May 3rd. During the first winter period, Kempsey STW held five on February 19th and 12 on 26th and post-breeding reports included 30 on Bredon Hill on September 22nd, whilst

174 during October, Happy Valley produced counts of 20+ on 1st, 15 on 3rd and 15th, plus 18 on 18th and British Camp held 15 on 13th and 10 on 17th. Staffs Unlike last year, peak numbers were reported in late winter rather than autumn, with up to 20 at Brocton Coppice in January and 37 in Hanchurch Woods in February. Breeding reports came from Beech West, Belvide (three pairs may have bred, three juveniles were seen), Hanchurch Woods (four+), Strawberry Hill and Weston Jones. The only double-figure counts in the second winter period were 12 at Tittesworth on November 4th-5th and 10 at Hanchurch Woods on December 17th. W Mid Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, compared to four pairs last year, but nevertheless representing a sustained increase on the average of 1.6 over the last 14 years. Birds were also noted in the breeding season at Alcester, Coundon Wedge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Haden Hill Park, Harborne, Hawne Park, Marsh Lane NR, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells Wood, Smestow Valley (at least three pairs), Sutton Park, Warstock and Westwood Heath. Seven birds were counted at Priory Fields on March 23rd, with five noted at Marsh Lane NR in March, August and October, and Edgbaston Reservoir on July 24th. Smaller numbers were recorded at Black Patch Park, Daisy Bank, The Dingles, Dorridge, Halesowen, Hall Green, Hampstead, Hay Tor, Mary Stevens Park, Olton Mere, Penn, Priory Fields, Rotton Park, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Trittiford Park, Warley Woods, Winson Green, Wordsley and Worlds End.

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare breeding species. Warks The only acceptable reports concerned the overwintering bird from 2005 again seen at Farnborough Park on January 9th and 23rd JJB, and a singing male at Brandon on April 20th BMCG. Unfortunately no birds returned to the 2005 breeding site. Worcs The sole county record came from Kempsey STW, where a male was present from February 11th-March 22nd MAS et al. Staffs Two birds were seen from the New Year at Baggeridge CP, incredibly remaining into May when the female was seen brooding at a nest site GWr, SEd. The eggs never hatched but nevertheless this was the first record of a Firecrest breeding attempt in the county. It is most unusual for UK Firecrests to winter at their eventual nest site, this only being known to happen at one location in Norfolk. Elsewhere, birds move away from their breeding sites in winter. The only other record was of a male at Belvide on April 3rd SNu. W Mid One visited a Marston Green garden on October 31st per RJK.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Fairly common, though much declined, summer resident. Long-term average: May 3rd (70) to September 29th (70). 8-year average: April 30th (–3 days) to September 29th (=). An early arrival on April 22nd at Upton Warren; the last being seen on October 1st at Happy Valley. Warks Another good year was recorded in the south of the county, with a continued rise in woodland territories. Breeding pairs were located at: Admington, Alderminster, Alscot Park, Arbury Park, Avon Dassett, Bentley Park Wood, Bishop’s Itchington (two), Chering - ton, Compton Verney (two), Crimscote, Ettington, Farnborough Park (nine, cf. only two in 2005), Fenny Compton (nine), Great Alne, Halford (two), Haseley, Honington (six), Hounds Hill, Idlicote (nine in parish, of which six in woodland), Ilmington (eight), Knaven - hill, Lighthorne, Morton Bagot (two), Newbold-on-Stour (two), Nunley Wood (two),

175 Packington Park (at least two), Pillerton Hersey (five), Pillerton Priors, Preston-on-Stour (two), Sawbridge, Shipston STW, Talton Park, Tredington (eight in parish), Ufton, Upton Park (two) and Wormleighton. The first spring migrants appeared at Brandon and Draycote (two) on May 3rd, with further birds noted at Marston Jabbett on 4th and Seeswood Pool on 5th. The main arrival commenced on May 7th. The largest post- breeding party was one of ten at Farnborough Park on August 5th. In the north of the county migrant parties of four-five lingered at Alvecote, Ladywalk and Seeswood during late Spotted Flycatcher, Draycote, Steve Valentine August and early September, while the last reports concerned two at Brandon and two at Compton Verney on September 22nd. Worcs 23 pairs were located around Bredon Hill, with 51 nest monitored throughout the breeding season. By the end of June 63% of nests had failed, due to shortage of food and predation, but later attempts fared better, with a 22% failure rate and an overall average of four young fledged per nesting pair. Pairs (single unless stated) nested at Birchwood, Bodenham Arboretum, Eymore Wood, Grimley, Old Storridge, Stoke Bliss (four), The Knapp and Upton Warren village. Singles or pairs were also reported during the breeding season at Abberton, Birchen coppice, British Camp, Chase End Hill, Cofton Richards Farm, Dowles Brook, Grafton Manor, Hanbury Hall, Hewell Grange, Ipsley Alders, Kempsey, Langdale Wood, Lydiate Ash, Nineveh, Old Hills, Park Brook, Pipers Hill Wood, Rock Coppice, Sally Beds, Westwood Pool and Whiteleaved Oak, but some of these records may have referred to passage birds. Three were also noted at on July 4th. A particularly early spring migrant was reported from Upton Warren on April 22nd. During the late summer and autumn, Croome Landscape Park held five on July 25th, 15 on August 1st and 10 on 9th, singles were at Grimley New Workings on July 29th, August 24th, 26th and September 5th, followed by two on 13th, four were noted at Sedge Green on August 2nd, one at Stoke Bliss on 3rd and three just north of Bevere Lock on 5th and 19th. On Bredon Hill, three were at the summit tower on August 8th, the southern side produced counts of seven on 16th, 12 on 20th, 15+ on 24th and singles on 27th and 28th, whilst the north/eastern corner, above Elmley Castle recorded 10 on 30th, 15 on September 1st and 4th, 10 on 7th, six on 9th, 16 on 15th, five on 18th and two on 21st and 22nd. Three at Trimpley Reservoir on August 12th, increased to 11 on September 5th, one was at Hurcott Pool on August 16th, one at Lower Moor on 18th, two at Lower Smite Farm on 19th, one in Monk Wood on 24th, one at Birtsmorton Pools on 25th, four at Bredon’s Hardwick on 17th and one at Dowles Brook on 28th. Other September records comprised singles at both Lower Smite Farm and Upton Warren on 3rd, four on Kempsey Common on 4th, two at Grafton Wood on 6th and two at British Camp on 11th. The final report was of a late departing juvenile, observed in Happy Valley on October 1st. Staffs As in 2005 spring migration was pretty quiet, mostly ones and twos. Starting

176 with singles at Seven Springs and Sherbrook Valley on April 30th there were small peaks of six at Belvide on May 6th and Ingestre on the 23rd and of five at Tittesworth on the 21st. It was good to see breeding/territories reported from 28 locations, of which 16 were on the North Staffs Moors: Alstonefield (three males), Back Forest, Belvide (two pairs), Blithfield (two+), Brund, Chapel Chorlton (two), Coombes Valley (five), Crossplains area (five), Crumpwood (pair fledged four young), Dovedale, Ellastone, Gradbach, Greenway Bank, Ilam, Ingestre, Kinver, Knypersley Reservoir, Lichfield, Revidge, Seven Springs, Swallow Moss, Three Shires Head, Tittesworth (two-three), Tixall (two), Warslow (two), Waterfall Low, Waterhouses and Winkhill. Autumn migration was, if anything, a quieter affair with a maximum of six birds reported from Gailey on September 4th and eight at Ingestre on 7th. Last records of the year were singles at Belvide, Doxey and Gailey on September 17th, Byrkley Park on 21st and Penkridge Bank on 25th. W Mid Thought possibly to have bred in Smethwick, where two visited a garden on June 17th and 21st. A pair raised two young in Berkswell churchyard, where one remained until September 7th. In August, there was at Hockley Heath on 9th; one in Sandwell Valley on 14th, with two on 15th and one on 21st; one in Goscote Valley on 14th and 16th, with four on 26th; and one at Dunstall Park on 24th. More were sighted in September, with two at Marsh Lane NR and Sheepwash UP and one at Saltwells LNR on 4th, three on 11th and one still the next day, and singles at Dorridge on 6th, Smestow Valley on 6th and 15th, Sandwell Valley on 18th and Coundon Wedge on 29th.

Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Frequent and increasing summer resident and passage migrant, though breeding regularly only in Staffs and Worcs. Long-term average: April 20th (60) to September 11th (41). 8-year average: April 13th (–7 days) to September 11th (=). An early arrival on April 9th at Baggeridge CP; the last at Sling Pool Plantation on September 19th. Warks No records, for the first time since 1972. Worcs Only seven nest boxes were occupied and 48 young fledged on the southern Malvern Hills compared to 11 nests in 2005, when 57 were fledged. The first singing male was noted on Raggedstone Hill on April 21st, whilst away from the nest box scheme, a singing male was reported at British Camp on May 25th. Elsewhere, Dowles Brook held a pair on April 30th, two males on May 4th, three males on 11th and singles on June 24th and July 30th. A pair fledged six young from a nest box in Chaddesley Wood, where the male was first reported singing on May 10th. The only autumn sighting came from Holt, where a juvenile was observed on September 19th at Sling Pool Plantation. Pied Flycatcher, Bearda Hill, Dave Kelsall

177 Staffs Pied Flycatchers were found at some 17 sites throughout the county after a first record from Baggeridge CP on April 9th, then Coombes Valley on 15th. Away from the breeding sites, spring migrants were seen at Bearda on April 20th, Rudyard Lake on May 5th (male) and Doxey on 12th (male). Although the majority of individual records came from various sites around Cannock Chase, Coombes Valley held an amazing 41 pairs of which 39 nested in boxes and produced 200 juveniles which were subsequently ringed! Five was the next highest figure, at Dimmingsdale. Breeding was also reported from Barleighford (failed – nest box collapsed), Cannock Chase (two pairs), Consall CP (two pairs), Greenway Bank/Knypersley, Hawksmoor (two pairs, one successful) and Tittes- worth (two males). A male on territory at Deep Hayes CP failed to attract a mate. Autumn passage produced just two females/immatures at Blithfield on August 26th, one remaining until 28th, one at Byrkley Park on September 10th and finally an immature at Belvide on 17th. W Mid A male was seen near Olton railway station on April 19th-20th.

1995 Addendum Warks A male in Warwick Castle Park on May 1st brings that year’s total to eight.

Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus Rare winter visitor, much reduced since 1994 (6/10). Warks The male from the end of last year remained at Napton Res until at least March 22nd JJB et al, although it was often very difficult to locate. At least two were heard there on October 18th JJB but not subsequently.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus Common to very common resident. Warks Four breeding pairs were located at both Wormleighton Res and Yarningale Common. The largest reported flocks were of 35 at both Oldbury on January 11th and Compton Verney on 20th, 45 at Kingsbury WP on 21st, and then in autumn 35 were at both Napton Hill on October 13th and Fenny Compton Hills on 14th, with 40 at Napton Res on 18th. Counts of around 20-30 were also noted during the year at: Brailes Hill, Brandon, Charlecote GP, Coleshill STW, Draycote, Earlswood, Edge Hill, Farnborough Park, Fisher’s Mill GP, Ladywalk, Newbold Comyn, Salford Priors GP, Weston-on-Avon and Wormleighton Res. Worcs No breeding data received and the only counts comprised 42 at Lower Moor on July 6th and 25 on Bredon Hill on September 4th. Staffs Reported from 39 sites with the larger counts as follows: 29 at West End Stoke on May 6th, 25 at Brown Lees on July 26th, 33 at Doxey August on 13th and September 16th, 30 at Weaver Hills on October 29th, 32 at Brookley’s Lake on November 5th and 31 at Doxey on December 17th. At Belvide, an adult ringed on August 5th 2005 (APK 392) was retrapped on January 17th and again on May 2nd 2006. Likewise a juvenile ringed on July 11th 2004 (1U 9019) was re-trapped on August 1st. Both birds have showed site fidelity and survival through one or two mild winters. W Mid Just one territory was noted on the Mons Hill CBC plot, the lowest since surveys began and a dramatic decline on last year’s three and the average of 3.1 over the last 14 years. Other breeding season records came from Aldridge, Allesley Park, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, The Leasowes, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR (at least five pairs), Nailcote, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR,

178 Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Counts included parties of 17 at Fens Pools in January, 15 at The Dingles on February 28th, up to 23 in Smestow Valley in June and July, up to 20 at Marsh Lane NR from September 29th till the end of the year, 20 along Salter’s Lane, Sandwell Valley, on October 12th and about 60 in a mixed flock of tits at Ladywood on December 21st.

Marsh Tit Poecile palustris Fairly common resident. Warks At least ten breeding pairs were located in the Hounds Hill-Knavenhill Wood- Ettington Grove area. Other pairs bred at: Armscote, Billesley (five), Bishop’s Hill, Compton Verney, Coombe Abbey, Crackley Wood, Earlswood, Ettington Park (three), Farnborough Park (two), Fenny Compton (two), Hampton Wood, Honington, Idlicote Hills (two), Ilmington (five), Nunley Wood, Oakley Wood (two), Oversley Wood, Pillerton Hersey, Pillerton Priors, Ryton Wood, Snitterfield Bushes, Stockton, Tredington, Warwick Castle Park and Wormleighton Res (two-three). It was reported during the year from 54 sites across southern and central parts of the county, but the only northern record concerned two at Ladywalk on March 23rd. Winter counts included ten at Coombe Abbey on February 10th and 11 at Compton Verney on December 6th. Worcs During the breeding season, six territories were held along Dowles Brook, a pair fledged five young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum, a single pair was at both Ayton’s Heath and Birchen Coppice, one or two pairs at Brazier’s Coppice, one at Chase End Wood, one at Hewell Grange, a pair at Tiddesley Wood and reported as abundant on the slopes of Bredon Hill throughout the year. During the first winter period, one was reported from Southcrest Wood on January 2nd and six pairs were on Bredon Hill on 26th. Autumn and second winter period sightings comprised one at Westmancote on August 8th, one at Grafton Wood on September 6th, a pair at Elmley Castle on 8th, two at Southcrest Wood on 12th, one at Mill Shrub Pool (a local rarity) on 17th and December 17th, a pair at Drakes Broughton on September 24th, singles at Pipers Hill Wood and St. Ann’s Well on November 1st, whilst Dowles Brook held three on 23rd and four on December 27th. Staffs Breeding was confirmed at just five sites on the northern moorland with six territories along Dovedale, two at Lode Mill and one at Weags Barn Reserve and Wolfscote Dale. An adult and two juveniles were observed at Waterhouses. A widespread number of sightings in late spring/summer came from Alrewas (six), Aqualate, Baggeridge CP, Belvide (two), Byrkley Park, Dydon Wood, Keele University, Martha’s Grave – Cannock Chase, Middleton Lakes, Tittesworth and Weston Jones Mill. Birds were seen regularly all year at Aqualate and Byrkley Park. In the first winter period one was regular at Baggeridge CP and two at Doley Common. January sightings also came from Apedale CP, Blithfield, Brocton Coppice, Castern Wood NR (two), Flashbrook Wood, Highgate Common (three), Marquis Drive (two), Soles Hill (two) and Weags Bridge (two). February sightings were from Branston WP and Hanchurch Woods (two). In the second winter period regular at Baggeridge CP (two), Blithfield, Belvide (three) and Doley Common (two) with September sightings from Gailey and Martha’s Grave – Cannock Case, in October from Caltonmoor (two), Tittesworth and Weag’s Bridge and in December from Greenway Bank CP, Hanchurch Woods, Himley, Parkhall CP (two) and Wettonmill. W Mid One was present in Sandwell Valley in January, with two in April and one in October SBo, per MWe. Single birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR from March 19th-24th, September 23rd-24th and December 26th per NPB, GPR, with possibles on June 27th and July 7th. Individuals were also noted at Barston on January 6th CBis, The Dingles on

179 March 2nd JNea, Bradnocks Marsh on September 14th per NPB and the Birmingham side of Lickey Hills in April SBo.

Willow Tit Poecile montana Fairly common, but decreasing, resident. Warks This is probably one of the fastest declining birds in the county. During the breeding season pairs were located at: Brandon (now probably just one pair), Brownsover Mill, Coton/Lea Marston Pools, Ensors Pool, Fenny Compton (four), Fisher’s Mill GP, Haseley, Ilmington, Kingsbury (two), Ladywalk, Napton Hill, Newbold Comyn, Shustoke, Stoneton, Ufton Fields, Whitacre Heath NR, Whittleford Park and Wormleighton Res (three). At Knightcote where until recently there were several pairs, only one unmated bird sang during the spring but was not seen after September. Habitat conditions here remain unaltered suggesting that something more insidious such as a virus may be responsible for the decline. Other sites with sightings, many of which were just wandering birds outside the breeding season, were: Alvecote, Avon Dassett, Billesley, Brailes Hill, Charlecote GP, Chesterton, Draycote, Guy’s Cliffe (another regular site left untenanted after the end of January), Hampton Wood, Lighthorne Pools, Maxstoke, Middleton, Nuneaton (Camp Hill), Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston, Ryton Wood, Weddington and Windmill Hill NR. In the far south-west where it is now very rare, singles were noted at Abbots Salford (in song) on February 12th and Salford Priors GP on September 10th. The best counts came again from Wormleighton Reservoir, with eight on September 11th and seven on December 7th. Worcs Now on the verge of extinction as a breeding species in the county, with the only report of a pair on breeding territory coming from Bittell Reservoir. In comparison, breeding territories were reported from 25 localities in 1998, reducing to 15 by 2000, whilst between 10-12 locations held singles or pairs between 2001-2004 and just six in 2005. Singles were also noted at Upton Warren on April 2nd, Trench Wood on 12th and Birchen Coppice on July 20th. During the first winter period one was at Lower Bittell Reservoir and two at Pitcher Oak Wood on January 1st, singles at Arrow Valley Lake on 15th, 22nd and February 5th and Kyre On January 30th. In August, one was in a garden at Link Top on 7th and one at Grimley Old Workings on 17th and 28th, whilst singles were observed at Upper Bittell Reservoir on September 10th and 26th, at Mill Shrub Pool on 26th, October 1st, November 2nd and December 1st, Lower Bittell Reservoir on October 29th, Monk Wood on November 12th and Grimley Old Workings between 17th-December 28th. Due to the scarcity of this species in the county and its similarities to Marsh Tit, it will be added to the list of birds requiring a description from January 2007. Staffs Breeding pairs confirmed from just three sites this year: Croxall GP, Cuckoo Bank and Doxey where two pairs attempted, one being successful. Birds were also present in the breeding season at Aqualate, Belvide, Branston GP, Branston WP, Broad Heath, Chasewater, Drayton Bassett Pits, Kinver, Knypersley, Meir, Park Hall CP (four), River Sow Meadows Baswich and Tittesworth. Up to five birds were present all year at Aqualate, six at Belvide, two at Branston WP, six at Chasewater, two at Doxey, three at Knypersley, two at Meir, five at Park Hall CP, two at River Sow Meadows and four at Westport. In the first winter period, birds were seen at Alrewas, Apedale CP, Astonfields Balancing Lakes, Baggeridge CP, Beeston Tor, Blithfield (four), Brocton Coppice, Byrkley Park, Croxall, Crumpwood, Dosthill, Drayton Bassett Pits, Dunstall, Elford GP, Ellenhall, Ford Green NR, Hanchurch Woods, Kemsey Manor, Lightwood, Little Stoke, Oldacre Valley, Seven Springs, Sherbrook Valley, Tittesworth, Weeping Cross, Weston Jones and Whitemoor Haye. In the second winter period reported at Alton (Park Banks Wood), Apedale CP,

180 Baggeridge CP, Black Bank, Blithfield, Clay Mills, Consall CP, Croxall, Croxden Quarry, Cuckoo Bank (five), Dydon Wood, Essington Quarry Pool, Gailey, Hanchurch Woods, Madeley STW, Martha’s Grave, Milldale, Needwood House, Sugnall Park, Tittesworth, Tixall Bridge and Weston Jones. W Mid One territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot (cf. two pairs last year and an average of 1.0 over the last 14 years). Also noted in the breeding season at , the Birmingham side of Lickey Hills, Marsh Lane NR, Sandwell Valley (at least four birds in April) and Smestow Valley (at least two pairs). Also seen at Dunstall Park, Fens Pools, Packhorse Bridge NR, Saltwells LNR, Trittiford Pool and Turners Hill.

Coal Tit Periparus ater Common to very common resident and irruptive winter visitor. Warks The only noteworthy record involved a party of 12 on the Fenny Compton Hills on October 8th. Worcs Few reports were received of this relatively common breeding resident. Four pairs, fledged 21 young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum, a pair, with four fledglings were observed at Kinsham Lake on June 20th, seven birds were counted at Hollywood on July 10th and a juvenile was at Throckmorton Tip on 12th. The only winter reports came from Kinsham Lake, a Malvern Link garden, which held singles between January 13th-March 24th and one was at Lower Moor on January 18th. Staffs Double-figure counts came from Park Hall CP on March 1st (12), Bishop’s Wood on April 27th (18) and Jackson’s Bank (10) on October 19th. W Mid Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, a notable increase on last year’s one and the average of 1.9 over the last 14 years. Other breeding season records came from Alcester, Dorridge, Ham Dingle, Handsworth, Hay Head Wood, Marsh Lane NR, Moseley Park, Portway, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley and Smestow Valley. Also noted at Allesley, Blythe Valley, Coombeswood, Coundon Wedge, Daisy Bank, The Dingles, Edgbaston Reservoir, Finchfield, Haden Hill Park, Halesowen, Hall Green, Hawne Park, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Old Swinford, Penn, Priory Fields, Sheepwash UP, Sutton Park, Tilehouse Green, Warstock and Whitley. Seven were counted in a Moseley garden on September 16th.

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus Abundant resident. Warks 122 young fledged from 17 nest boxes at Brandon. A continued increase was noted at Morton Bagot, with 21 territories in 120 ha, compared with 17 in 2005 and 15 in 2004. 17 territories in 40 ha at Oldberrow was unchanged from 2005. Numerous parties of around 20-35 were reported during the year from all parts of the county. Amongst the better counts were 40 at Ladywalk on February 17th, 40 by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on September 23rd and 50 at Farnborough Park on November 6th. 54 were located in 1km2 of farmland at Wormleighton on November 27th. A uniformly pale yellow xanthochroistic bird visited a Fenny Compton garden on March 12th with possibly a different individual there from November 10th-16th. Worcs 16 nest boxes were occupied, fledging 124 young at Bodenham Arboretum, a single brood fledged at Timberhonger, but several nest also failed here and a count of 21 was made at Ipsley Alders on March 18th. Staffs Two pairs bred at Doley Common (cf. 10 in 2005) and 13 at Doxey (cf. 10 in 2005). Larger flocks were reported from Doxey on February 1st (29), Tittesworth on April

181 4th (25), Black Bank on August 5th (30), Apedale CP on 24th (27), Black Bank on September 20th (40), Doxey on November 19th (27) and Madeley STW on December 13th (32). W Mid The Mons Hill CBC plot held 13 territories, marking a continued decline since 20 in 2002 and down on the average of 17.2 over the last 14 years. No changes in status were noted at Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley. Maximum counts included 55 in Coundon Wedge in February (cf. high of 54 last year in same month), 32 at Nailcote in April, 22 at Fens Pools in November, and 25 in an Acocks Green garden and 22 in Sandwell Valley in December.

Great Tit Parus major Abundant resident. Warks 115 young fledged from 23 nest boxes at Brandon. Census data produced 13 territories in 120 ha at Morton Bagot (cf. 11 in 2005) and 12 in 40 ha at Oldberrow (cf. six in 2005). Good-sized counts during the year included 33 at Alvecote on January 4th, 30 at Ladywalk in January-February, 39 at Earlswood Lakes on April 26th, 22 at Wormleighton on November 27th, and 31 at Brandon on December 17th. Easily the largest flock to be reported was one of 60 feeding on beech mast at Ilmington Downs on October 27th. Worcs Nine pairs fledged 53 young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum, a single brood fledged at Timberhonger but, like Blue Tit, several nests also failed. Ipsley Alders held 24 on March 18th and a maximum of 19 were observed during December at Little Comberton. Staffs Larger flocks were reported from Marquis Drive on January 5th (23), Caldon Canal at Ladderedge on 24th (20), Doxey on February 1st (27) Tittesworth on April 4th (25) and June 3rd (20) and Black Bank on August 5th (20). Nine pairs bred at Doxey (as in 2005). W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, 30 territories were identified, the most since surveys began and significant increases on both the 23 of last year and the average of 20.6 over the last 14 years. No changes in status were noted at Saltwells LNR, Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley. Maximum counts included 21 at Fens Pools in January, 27 at The Dingles and 21 at Balsall Common in February, 31 at Nailcote in April and 50 in Sandwell Valley in July.

Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea Fairly common to common resident. Warks Breeding pairs were reported from: Alscot Park, Bentley Park Wood, Billesley (three), Brandon, Charlecote Park (three), Compton Verney (four), Coombe Abbey, Earls - wood Lakes (four in area), Farnborough Park (two), Honington, Idlicote, Ilmington, Kings - bury Wood (three), Knavenhill Wood (five), Middleton Hall (two), Nunley Wood, Oakley Wood (five), Pillerton Hersey, Ryton Wood, Tredington, Upton Park (two), Wilmcote, Wormleighton Res (the first successful breeding pair here) and Yarningale Common (two). Worcs At least five pairs bred at Stoke Bliss, two pairs occupied nest boxes at Boden- ham Arboretum, both fledging four young, seven birds were counted at Hewell Grange on April 12th, a pair was at British Camp on July 29th and reported as resident at Bredon Hill, Croome Landscape Park, Tiddesley Wood and Wood Norton. Outside the breeding season, two were in Chase End Wood on January 1st, one at Little Comberton on September 17th, two at Nimmings on November 1st and one at Coombegreen Common on 11th. Staffs Three pairs bred at Belvide (up from one in 2000-2005), one at Biddulph

182 (Newpool), Ingestre, Keele University, Tixall Bridge and three pairs were observed at River Sow Meadows, Baswich. Outside the breeding season there were four at Aqualate, Baggeridge CP and Knypersley, and three at Elford GP, Greenway Bank CP, Hanchurch Woods and Moddershall. Counts of one or two birds were reported throughout the county. W Mid One territory was recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, cf. two last year, but marking only the fourth successive year of the species presence here. Other breeding season records were made at Allesley Park, Balsall Common, Coundon Wedge, Dartmouth Park, Dorridge, Edgbaston Reservoir, Hay Head Wood, Lightwoods Park, Marsh Lane NR, Moseley Park, Olton Mere, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Solihull, Sutton Park, Warley Woods and Westwood Heath. Also noted at Alcester, Bentley Heath, Berkswell, Blythe Valley CP, Cannon Hill Park The Dingles, Hall Green, Harborne, Hawne Park, Hobs Moat Woods, The Leasowes, Mary Stevens Park, Nailcote, Penn, Priory Fields, Selly Oak Park, Senneleys Park and Trittiford Park. A remarkable 25 birds counted in Sutton Park on February 7th, with five noted in Coundon Wedge, The Dingles, Nailcote and Senneleys Park early in the year.

Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Common resident. Warks Counts of breeding pairs/singing males included four along the River Itchen below Knightcote, five along the River Stour at Tredington, and five at both Wormleighton Res and Yarningale Common. Worcs Two pairs each fledged four young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum, two were noted at Hewell Grange on April 12th, three at British Camp on July 29th and reported as resident at Bredon hill, Lower Moor, Tiddesley Wood and Wood Norton. Staffs Breeding records came from typical woodland habitat: Burnt Wood, Doxey, Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth. Six at Brocton Coppice and five at Coombes Valley and Sherbrook Valley were the highest counts, otherwise one to four birds were reported from 33 other sites throughout the county. W Mid One territory was identified on the Mons Hill CBC plot (cf. two last year and the average of 1.3 over the last 14 years). Other breeding season records came from Coundon Wedge, Harborne NR, Marsh Lane NR (at least two pairs), Marston Green, Olton Mere, Saltwells Wood, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Also present at The Dingles, Hay Head Wood (four birds noted on January 30th), The Leasowes, Packhorse Bridge NR, Priory Fields, Trittiford Park and Warley Woods.

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Rare passage migrant. Formerly bred (5/10). Staffs A juvenile bird discovered at Berry Hill on October 15th remained until 23rd CSi et al. Given that this was the first county bird since one at Chapel Chorlton in June 1956, it duly attracted a large number of admirers and county listers!

Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor Rare or scarce passage migrant and winter visitor (9/10). Warks A single bird was watched closely in a garden on the very edge of Kenilworth on December 29th CCo. It was seen to pounce on what appeared to be either a Wren or possibly a mouse before flying off across the fields towards Fernhill Farm but, despite several searches over the following weeks, it could not be relocated in this area. Staffs The wintering bird at Catholme/Walton-on-Trent/Barton GP remained from

183 New Year until April 15th many observers. Another was seen on April 8th at Belvide SNu, BSm.

Red-backed Shrike, Berry Hill, Dave Kelsall

Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius Fairly common to common resident. Warks Significant counts included nine at Alvecote on January 4th, seven at Salford Priors GP on April 23rd and September 10th, and 11 at Brandon on September 16th, with ten there in November-December. Worcs No breeding data was received. The only records received were of two on Castle - morton Common on February 19th, three at Rowney Green on March 24th, two on Kempsey Common on September 4th and three on Castlemorton Common on October 29th. Staffs No breeding records received but reported throughout the year with six at Belvide and five at River Sow Meadows in April, seven at Park Hall CP in May, six at Chasewater in August and 12 at Cuckoo Bank in October. W Mid There was one territory on the Mons Hill CBC plot (cf. the same the last two years and the average of 1.3 over the last 14 years). Also recorded in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Aldridge, Brueton Park, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Harborne NR, Hay Head Wood, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR, Marston Green, Nailcote, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Also noted at Alcester, Balsall Common, Blythe Valley CP, Bournville, The Dingles, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Kings Norton, Kingswinford, Old Swinford, Olton Mere, Penn, Priory Fields, Wake Green, Warley Woods, Warstock and Yew Tree. High counts included six at Saltwells LNR on March 16th and five in Coundon Wedge in September.

Magpie Pica pica Very common resident. Warks The only counts of 20 or more comprised: 28 at Ladywalk and 20 at Brandon on

184 February 7th, 35 at Alvecote on 8th, 28 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on May 16th, and 25 roosting at Wormleighton Res on November 9th. An enterprising bird at Avon Dassett during the summer regularly entered a kitchen to steal cat food! Worcs No breeding data received. 55 roosted at Castlemorton Common on February 2nd, whilst other notable counts included 21 at Ipsley Alders on September 30th, 30+ at Malvern Link on October 13th, 20 on Castlemorton Common on 17th and 31 at Bredon’s Hardwick on November 28th. Staffs Two pairs bred at Doley (as 2005) and 10 at Doxey (up from six in 2005). Large flocks throughout the year at Berry Hill peaked at 48 on March 25th, likewise at Doxey with 36 on November 12th. In addition, there were 40 at Apedale CP on January 2nd, 45 at Chasewater on March 18th and 70 at Chasewater on October 11th. W Mid Five territories on the Mons Hill CBC plot represented the lowest total since surveys began (cf. seven last year and the average of 7.4 over the last 14 years). No changes in status were noted at Saltwells LNR and Smestow Valley. “Hundreds” of birds roosted at Sheepwash UP during both winter periods. Specific winter counts included 128 at Olton Mere on January 3rd, 65 at Shirley on 7th, 49 at Fens Pools on 19th, 130 at Saltwells LNR on 21st, 50 at Hay Head Wood on 30th, 50 by Longmoor Pool (Sutton Park) on February 4th and 92 at Olton Mere on December 5th.

Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula Very common resident. Warks The only breeding records of note were nine pairs in 40 ha of farmland at Oldberrow (cf. seven in 2005) and ten pairs at Tredington church. The largest counts came from winter roosts, with 750 at Calcutt Spinney on January 5th and a peak of 1000 in a regular roost at Ennister Wood (Ragley estate) on December 3rd. Other sizeable flock counts included 420 at Chesterton on January 25th, 500 at Salford Priors on February 12th, 415 at Crimscote on July 10th, 340 at Draycote village on October 25th and 405 at Wormleighton on November 27th. Flocks of around 150-300 were also noted during the year at: Abbots Salford, Billesley, Brailes Hill, Farnborough, Fenny Compton, Halford, Hodnell, Ilmington Downs, Knightcote, Priors Hardwick, Tredington, Ufton, Umberslade, Wasperton and Watergall. A bird sporting extensive white patches in the wings was at Wasperton on January 13th, while a single bird with a distinct neck collar resembling an eastern race C. m. monedula or C. m. soemmeringii was seen in a flock at Alvecote on October 21st RLS. Although plumage variation in our own subspecies makes any identification of these races practically impossible, the date is certainly suggestive for a continental visitor. Worcs A pair fledged four young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum, whilst the best counts received were of 40+ at Webheath on January 1st, 50+ on Conderton Hill on February 19th, 200 at Wick on 28th, 40 at Hollywood on July 10th, 200+ at Bittell Reservoir on September 26th, 100+ at Upton Warren on 27th and 80 at Lower Smite Farm on November 7th. Staffs A pair bred at Doley. Two particularly large flocks were recorded: 600 at Whit - more Bent Lane on January 15th and 850 roosting at River Sow Meadows on December 3rd. Other good counts came from; in January at Beeston Tor (350) and River Sow Meadows (150), in March at Aqualate (323) and River Sow Meadows (150), in August at Whitmore Bent Lane (300) and in November at Byrkley Park (240). W Mid Breeding was reported only from Mons Hill CBC plot (one territory – the same as in each of the last two years) and Smestow Valley (numbers ‘remained stable’), and otherwise noted during the breeding season only at Marsh Lane NR, Sandwell Valley,

185 Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley. High counts included a site record of 436 in a pre- roost at Olton Mere on February 21st, about 200 in Sandwell Valley in February, 206 at Dunstall Park on March 18th, 70 plus at Marsh Lane NR on September 5th, at least 150 at Dunstall Park on October 15th and December 20th, 87 at Berkswell on 4th and 210 at Olton Mere on 29th. As usual, large numbers of birds joined the corvid roosts at Wightwick in both winter periods, though no specific counts were made.

Rook Corvus frugilegus Very common or abundant resident. Warks Few rookery counts were forthcoming, the most notable being 118 nests in the Itchen Valley between Knightcote and Watergall (cf. 121 in 2003), and a new one of 21 nests at Wormleighton Res. The decennial BOS rookery survey that includes the south- eastern parts of the county found that generally speaking numbers had gradually increased since 1975 in almost all 10 km squares. The exception was SP35 which was the only square to be wholly within Warwickshire. Here the nest totals peaked at 596 in 1991 before dropping to 340 in 1998 and 371 in 2006. The largest flock counts came mainly from the south and east of the county, with maxima of 1300 roosting in Calcutt Spinney on January 5th, 850 at Wormleighton on 15th, 550 at Chesterton on 25th, and 565 at Knightcote on September 9th. Other flocks of around 300-500 were noted at: Armscote, Barcheston, Compton Verney, Dunnington, Fenny Compton, Ilmington Downs, Long Marston, Napton, Oldberrow, Priors Hardwick, St Dennis, Wasperton, Watergall and Weston-on-Avon. In the north, 200 at Dosthill on February 10th and 170 at Lea Marston on November 10th were the best, although it is undoubtedly under-recorded in this area. Worcs Nest counts at rookeries comprised 21 at Bricklehampton, 26 at Hewell Grange, 82 at and nine at Droitwich. Staffs Rookery counts this year (nests in brackets) came from Belvide (nine), Dunwood (39), Revidge (seven) and Rudyard Lake (18 + 3). Large flock counts were recorded in January at Whitmore Bent Lane (400), in February at Camp Farm (120), in March at Aqualate (150), in August at Whitmore Bent Lane (250) and in September at Tittesworth (90). W Mid Rookeries were only reported from Dunstall Park (four nests cf. 12 in 2005) and Smestow Valley (three nests cf. two in 2005). Counts included about 50 at Lutley on January 17th, 34 at Dunstall Park on June 11th and Dudley Wood on 29th and about 30 at Marsh Lane NR on July 19th. Once again, several hundred birds joined the large corvid roosts at Wightwick in both winter periods, though no totals were noted.

Carrion Crow Corvus corone Abundant resident. Warks Three nests on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot was only half that of 2004, indicating some success by the local gamekeeper. Large non-breeding counts included 390 at Bubbenhall Tip on January 28th, 200 at Salford Priors GP on February 12th, 200 at Spernall on March 13th, 110 at Armscote on 23rd, 150 at Earlswood on 27th and 115 at Ilmington Downs on October 6th. Worcs No breeding data received. The largest counts comprised 15 and 25 at Bittell Reservoir on January 15th and February 12th respectively, 20+ on Conderton Hill and 30+ at Devils Spittleful on 19th, 50+ at Mount Pleasant on March 25th, 25+ on North Hill on April 28th, 30 at Bittell Reservoir on September 5th, 30+ on North Hill and 20+ on Sugarloaf Hill on October 1st and 44 at Bittell Reservoir on November 19th.

186 Staffs Four pairs bred at Doxey. A regular winter roost at the Festival Park, Etruria peaked at 115 on January 19th. Large flocks occurred in March at Apedale CP (170), River Sow Meadows (500) and Woodhead (120), in August at Cuckoo Bank (200), October at Packington Moor (101), November at Apedale CP (100) and December roosting at River Sow Meadows (150). W Mid Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot (the same as in each of the last two years and compares favourably with the average of 3.1 over the last 14 years). Otherwise, little breeding information was received. High counts included 56 at Leighswood on January 23rd, 163 at Olton Mere on February 1st, 200 by Longmoor Pool (Sutton Park) on 4th, 72 at Dunstall Park on March 18th and 77 by Powell’s Pool (Sutton Park) on June 12th and 180 at Olton Mere on December 29th.

Common Raven Corvus corax Frequent visitor and uncommon to frequent, but increasing, resident. Warks Continues to increase and colonise new areas. Breeding pairs were located in the south at: Avon Dassett, Brailes, Ettington Park, Farnborough, Ilmington, Long Itchington, Priors Hardwick, Ragley, Shuckburgh Park, Spernall, Studley, Upton Park, Warwick Castle Park and Welcombe Hills. One nest was located for the first time in a disused industrial building. In the north, the usual breeding pair was at Packington Park, while a pair nested near Coombe Abbey for the first time giving rise to regular sightings at nearby Brandon. A pair also reared four young in a northern quarry. In the post-breeding period nine-ten regularly attended an abattoir slurry pit near Kenilworth from July onwards, increasing to an estimated peak of 12 in September GEC, with birds apparently occupying a communal roost in this area through the following winter. Seven together at Watergall on November 19th was the next best count. Worcs Breeding confirmed at Tank Quarry, where three young were fledged, whilst three were also reared at Upper Bittell Reservoir and two fledged at Wood Norton. Birds were observed regularly at Timberhonger through out the spring and summer and reported as resident at Bredon Hill, Gwen Finch Wetland, Kinsham Lake, Old Storridge and Throckmorton Tip. Singles or pairs, other than stated, also reported during the breeding season at Berrington’s Quarry, Coombegreen Common, Grafton Wood, Hewell Grange, Hollybed Common (two pairs), Kempsey, Lower Moor (four), Nineveh, Pirton Pool (four), Shen stone, Stoke Bliss (six), Upper Arley (four), Walton Hill, Worcestershire Beacon, Westwood Pool and the Wyre Forest (three pairs). Singles or pairs reported from 23 localities during the first winter period, whilst a count of five was made at Upper Arley on January 29th. Sightings increased during the autumn and second winter period, know doubt due to a successful breeding season. Reports Common Raven in Staffordshire came from 43 localities, with the best counts 2001–03 (orange squares) being 10 at Stockton on August 22nd, 14 and 2004–06 (dots)

187 27 on Worcestershire Beacon on 27th and September 3rd respectively, six and five at British Camp on 3rd and October 12th respec tively, four at Evesham on September 12th, five at Kinsham Lake on 29th, six on Sugarloaf Hill on October 1st, four on North Hill on 20th and 10 on Bredon Hill on November 9th. Staffs After the rapid rise in numbers over the last decade, numbers this year are, for the first time, slightly down on the previous year and suggest numbers are now starting to stabilize. 14-15 breeding pairs were located, most of which were successful. The accompanying map compares records from 2001-03 with those in 2004-06, demonstrating a continued expansion into the east and south-west of the county, with now just the far south-east corner showing no birds. The large gathering at Swallow Moss at the end of 2005 was again apparent in January peaking at 71 on 4th. Numbers then declined to 12 in February but rose to 33 in April. In the second winter period however, no records were submitted at all from Swallow Moss! In January, counts of 30 at The Mermaid Inn and 14 at Thorncliffe could have been the Swallow Moss birds; however 30 at Crossplains on November 10th shows a marked increase in the east of the county and was the only other double-figure count this year. W Mid One or two birds were noted at Marsh Lane NR on at least 34 dates and in every month (cf. 29 dates in nine months last year). A pair may have bred in the vicinity of Smestow Valley, where four were present on February 9th, one or two were noted on six dates from 14th to March 25th and three were seen on 31st. At Cheswick Green, one flew over on January 1st and March 24th, a pair was noted on 25th, August 28th, September 23rd and November 12th, five on December 27th and one on 30th. Four flew over Monkspath on January 24th. One went over Dorridge on September 19th, with two on November 7th, one on 28th and three on December 12th. Singles were seen in Coundon Wedge on March 18th, over Rowley Regis on 22nd and 31st, West Bromwich on 29th, Hockley Heath on April 14th, Netherton Hill on August 29th, Dunstall Park on September 26th, Barston on October 1st, Temple Balsall on December 4th and The Leasowes on 6th. Two birds flew over Rowley Regis on December 11th and 15th.

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris Very common to abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks The only breeding information of note was of four pairs at Oldberrow House, a reduction from eight pairs in 2005 which was thought to be due to building work. The large roost discovered at Alvecote in December 2005 was present throughout January, peaking at 10-12,000 on 3rd. It was apparently abandoned at the end of the month but presumably moved nearby as 8000 were estimated to be feeding in grassland at Alvecote in March. Other roosts were noted in Phragmites and Typha beds at four sites in the Tame Valley and at both Napton and Wormleighton Res at both ends of the year, but none exceeded 500. Elsewhere in the first quarter good-sized feeding flocks were present widely in the east and south-east of the county, with maxima of 900 at Knightcote on January 16th, 1500 at Draycote on February 26th, 1600 at Priors Hardwick on March 9th and 1800 at Fenny Compton on 11th. The first sizeable post-breeding flock consisted of 290 at Fenny Compton on June 1st of which 90% were juveniles. Subsequent counts included 800 roosting at Kingsbury WP on July 30th, 1000 at Salford Priors GP on September 11th, 442 at Bidford-on-Avon on 16th, 1300 at Leamington Hastings on October 12th, a peak of 780 at Brandon on November 18th, 600 at Charlecote GP on 29th, 700 at Napton Res on December 8th, 750 at Knightcote on 16th and 1000 near Wormleighton Res on 31st. The

188 largest flock was one of 4000 in a field at Curdworth on October 26th, with probably the same one nearby at Wishaw next day when it numbered 3000. Worcs No breeding data were received. During the first winter period, 1000+ were noted at Bredon’s Hardwick on February 26th, 150 at Weatheroak Hill on March 20th and 700 at Stoke Bliss on 22nd. Post-breeding flocks reported, included 150+ at Hollywood on July 10th, whilst 400 and 300 were at Ryall Pits on August 26th and September 3rd respectively. Second winter period sightings comprised roosts of 250 at Upton Warren on October 22nd, 60+ at Oakley Pool on November 3rd, 7000+ at Kinsham Lake on December 17th and 2300 at Gwen Finch Wetland on 28th, whilst 100 were seen at Weatheroak Hill on December 29th. Staffs In the first winter period, the only roost counts were 100 at Belvide and 150 at Woodhead, both on March 29th. No records from Aqualate, but 1090 birds were seen flying over Kemsey Manor towards the roost on January 1st. Counts of large numbers elsewhere came, in January from Alders Brook (1400), Aston/Burston (2000) and Byrkley Park (1400), February from Aston/Burston (2000) and March from Doxey (2100). Little breeding information was submitted, but post-breeding flocks including juveniles, were noted in June at Biddulph (350), in July at Berry Hill (110) and Waterfall (100) and in August at Berry Hill (300) and Blithfield (300). In addition, up to 260 birds started roosting at Aqualate from July. In the second winter period, the Aqualate roost built to 10,000 by the end of October, rising to 100,000 from late November until the year end. Oakamoor Quarry also held a roost of 20,000 birds from November, as did Belvide with 1000-2000 in early December. In The Potteries, 150 at Berry Hill in September rose to 300 in October and 750 in November. Meanwhile, 300 at Black Bank and 400 flying over Westport in October, with 3000 over Apedale and 900 over Westport in November all suggest a local roost site nearby. Likewise in the Stafford area, 250-300 at Doxey in September-December, 200 at Radford Bank in November, 100 at River Sow Meadows in October, 350 in November and 250 in December. Other counts of note: in October at Batchacre Hall (300) and Alstonefield (120), in November at Alrewas (180), Belvide (342 west on 3rd), Blithfield (1200), Fauld (1450), Foker Grange (200) and Morridge (1000); in December at Blithfield (270). W Mid Noted as a ‘common breeding species’ at Sheepwash UP and continued to nest in housing estates in Aldridge and adjacent to Saltwells LNR and Smestow Valley. High counts in the early part of the year included 150 at Marsh Lane NR on January 11th, 100 at Leighswood on February 5th, 350 in Sandwell Valley on 13th and 450 at Dunstall Park on 15th. Later in the year, totals included 100 at Netherton on August 11th, over 800 at Marsh Lane on September 14th, 150 at Lutley on 27th, 800 plus at Dunstall Park on October 1st and 15th, and 698 on November 5th, at least 730 over Smestow Valley on November 3rd and 4th, 200 at Aldridge on 2nd and 125 at Reedswood Park on December 18th.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Seven pairs bred at a farm at Morton Bagot, compared to six in 2005 and ten in 2004. At Birchmoor it was noted that first broods were very successful this year. In the north despite the spread of the Trichomoniasis virus there was thought to be as yet no real decline. The largest flocks were noted in late summer and included 85 feed- ing in a wheat field at Fenny Compton on July 15th and 80 near Wormleighton Res on August 18th. Other sites to hold flocks of around 30-60 included Armscote, Avon Dassett, Bishop’s Itchington, Brownsover, Earlswood, Farnborough, Northend,

189 Ilmington, Kingsbury WP, Rugby, Stratford-upon-Avon, Whittleford and Wood End (Kingsbury). Worcs Two pairs, each fledged four young from nest boxes at Bodenham Arboretum. Maximum counts from a Malvern Link garden comprised 10 in January, 15 in February and 10 in March, a garden feeding station at Winyates Green attracted 70 on June 13th, 85 on August 7th, 95 on 11th, plus 100 on September 20th and October 22nd, whilst 50 were at Lower Moor on September 10th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas 17 30 – 18 24 20 34 30 6 10 12 13 Astonfields B. Lakes16286–––––––16 Belvide 14––2––––––112 Berry Hill 31 – 28 15 – – 25 30 35 30 25 – Burton-on-Trent 30 26 33 22 12 20 15 30 14 31 20 24 Doxey 21 – 5 30 20 9 30 20 20 5 15 52 Park Hall CP 3–561010–––––8 River Sow, Baswich–862–6––10–2020 Stableford 5–4–6820––12–– Weston Jones 24–524320–1813

Records of this declining species were received from 61 sites (cf. 76 in 2005) but the largest flock of 200 at Lower Hatton Livery Stables on July 30th NDP is the first three- figure count this millennium – presumably as a result of a successful breeding season. Other large flocks comprised 30 at Brewood on January 25th, 30 at Ashton Hays on February 5th, 51 at Higher Lower Perton Lakes on March 18th, 30 at Woodside on August 20th and 31 at Sutton on September 10th. W Mid Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, slightly down on the four of the last two years and the average of 4.2 over the last 14 years. Breeding birds were also noted at Dunstall Park, Sheepwash UP (reported as declining in the area and with no post-breeding flocks noted), Saltwells LNR and Smestow Valley. Maxima included 54 in a Kingswinford garden on January 1st, 40 in an Acocks Green garden on February 4th, 30 in a Longbridge garden on April 29th, 33 at Portway on May 14th, 28 at Aldridge on July 9th, 50 at Leighswood on October 2nd and 103 at Fens Pools on 20th.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus Fairly common, though declining, resident. Warks There are still many signs that this species is continuing to expand its breeding range in the county, with small colonies now in many areas away from their Feldon heartland. Few of the larger colonies are being counted however, with the best totals of pairs being 35 at Fenny Compton (as in 2004-05), 17 at Morton Bagot (cf. 15 in 2005) and 20 at Priors Hardwick. A male was again mated to a female House Sparrow in a colony of the latter at Fenny Compton during the year. This pair was watched copulating on April 18th, but with no resultant hybrid young noted. During the first quarter the largest flocks were noted in the south-east, with peaks of 140 near Wormleighton Res on February 11th and 200 in bean stubble at Knightcote on 21st which was the largest flock in the county since 1984. Otherwise flocks of up to 50 were noted at a number of sites in the Feldon area during this period, with counts in the north and west including 34 at Lawford Heath on January 5th, 26 at Bodymoor Heath on 26th, 32 at Dunnington on February 9th and 30 at Armscote on Mar 23rd. Post-breeding flocks were rather smaller and included 45 at

190 Hollyland, Shustoke on August 26th, 70 at Priors Hardwick on September 7th, 70 at Wormleighton Res on December 7th, 45 near Kenilworth on 9th and 60 at Morton Bagot on 24th. Flocks of 40-50 were also present at Fenny Compton, Knightcote, Northend and Warmington during this period. Worcs A pair successfully reared four young from a nest box at Bodenham Arboretum and a pair frequented Wassell Grove Business Park throughout April and May, but breeding was not confirmed. Small numbers were reported during the first winter period, with the only sizable count being 22 and 10 in a game crop at Kyre on January 12th and 20th respectively. Hill Furze held two on 28th and February 10th, then singles on 26th and March 6th, three regularly visited a garden feeding station at Sinton Green during February, two were noted at Defford Airfield on March 7th and one was at Himbleton on 17th. The only second winter period sightings involved seven coming to a feeding station at Lower Smite Farm on October 14th and 15th, plus two at Lower Moor also on 15th. Staffs Records were received from 46 5km squares, compared with 43 in 2005 and 32 in 2004. Breeding records came from 14 sites this year, the same as 2005: Blithfield (nest gathering), Broad Heath (three young), Calton (three young), Chapel Chorlton (two pairs, three broods), Coley Mill (several pairs), Crossplains, Doley Common (two pairs, three broods), Forton (several pairs), Ingestre (small colony), Moreton (several pairs), Needwood Forest (several unspecified sites), Waterfall (four pairs), Weston Jones (two pairs) and Whitmore. Also seen throughout the year at Byrkley Park (up to two), Doley Common (eight), Norton Stoke (four), Pattingham, Pipe Green (32) and Sutton.

Monthly maxima at selected sites (p=present): JFMAMJ JASOND Alrewas 14 – – 14 9 4 162–67– Aqualate –85–––––––2820 Belvide 25 p 20 26 5 p 7 40 7 6 25 30 Blithfield –––11––203025––– Chapel Chorlton 3344432127–4– Pattingham –––35p102––4– Waterfall ––––218–4021–– Weston Jones 1 6 7 14 3322–222 Whitemoor Haye 20121235–20–3––– Whitmore 30–––21––––110200

The only treble-figure counts this year came from Whitmore Bent Lane where a build up on game crops reached 200 on December 31st, the highest count for many years. Numbers at Whitemoor Haye however showed a marked decline from last year and the only other significant count came from Crossplains with 95 on August 21st – numbers here and in the Needwood Forest area reported as “the second best year in 21 years of patch working” DIMW. Other notable counts came from Shareshill on January 27th (23), Kemsey Manor on February 19th (19), Redgreet on August 27th (15), Bednall on December 1st (15), Norbury Manor on 17th (31) and Enson on 18th (15). W Mid Birds were noted during the breeding season at Aldridge, Marsh Lane NR and Park Lime Pits, but no more than seven were counted.

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Abundant resident, passage migrant and winter visitor. Warks Breeding territory counts included 12 at Brandon, 25 in 62ha at Kingsbury Wood, 58 on a 120ha farm at Morton Bagot (cf. 45 in 2005) and 22 in 40ha at Oldberrow (cf. 23 in 2005). Only medium-sized flocks were reported during the late winter period,

191 with maxima of 100 at Weston-on-Avon on January 5th, up to 100 in a wildbird crop on the Fenny Compton Hills from January-March, 80 at Wormleighton Res during February, and a peak of 104 near Abbots Salford on March 11th. From early April there was a huge decline in numbers across the north of the county caused by the salivary glands virus Trichomoniasis, particularly in the Coleshill/Tame Valley area BLK and around Nuneaton NDBC, but numbers in the south were apparently unchanged. Autumn migration over the southern hills was again fairly modest, with the best counts (all per hour) of 70 south at Napton Hill on October 13th, 85 south- east over the Fenny Compton Hills on 14th and 170 west at Brailes Hill on 27th. Easily the largest reported autumn flock was that at Ilmington Downs, which increased from 200 on October 27th to a peak of 400 on November 24th. The only other flocks to reach three figures were feeding in maize stubble at Abbots Salford (maximum 150 on December 17th) and in a game cover crop at Chesterton (maximum of 150 on December 19th). The only flock reported in the north of the county during the last quarter was just 50 at Ladywalk on November 25th. A white- headed male was found in the Fenny Compton Hills flock on January 13th. Worcs Six nesting pairs at Boden- ham Arboretum, was the sole breeding record received. Small numbers were reported from two garden feeding stations during the first winter period, with maximum counts of 12 in January and 20 in February and March at Chaffinch, Whitacre Heath, Steve Valentine Malvern Link, whilst 35 were at Stoke Bliss on February 8th. A game crop at Merrilands Farm attracted 60+ on January 5th, 100 on 7th and 50+ on February 26th and March 4th, whilst another game crop at Longdon Marsh held 100 on January 8th and 75 on February 5th. Elsewhere, 80+ were at Lineholt on January 28th, 70 at Shellford on March 20th and 80 at Mount Pleasant on 25th. 100 passage birds flew west over Happy Valley on October 27th and game crops attracted reasonable numbers during the second winter period, with 30+ at New Farm on November 26th, increasing to 90+ on December 2nd and 100+ on 16th, 40 at Merrilands Farm on November 28th and 150 at Lower Smite Farm on 29th. Staffs Three pairs bred at Bateswood (five in 2004 and 2005), two at Doley and 10 at Doxey. The first winter period produced few good flocks, in January at Byrkley Park (200 at Linbrook Farm), Hanchurch Woods (100) and Whitmore Bent Lane (450); with treble figures only at Hanchurch Woods in February (320) and March (250). Last year’s male at Weston Jones continued to feed on a hanging peanut feeder. Visible migration was much quieter than usual, warm temperatures on the Continent causing many to stay within the European landmass this year. It started on September 18th with 11 over Black Bank, then

192 35 over Belvide on October 1st, 22 over Black Bank on 3rd, 64 over Belvide (the peak count) on 8th, 14 over Black Bank on 12th, then at Belvide 44 on 14th, 21 on 25th and 30 on 28th. As a result, the only significant wintering flocks were 270 at Apedale CP on November 17th and 200 at Whitmore Bent Lane on December 31st. W Mid On the Mons Hill CBC plot, six territories were identified, the same as in each of the last two years and slightly up on the average on 5.6 over the last 14 years. About 13 singing males at Marsh Lane NR was double last year’s count. No changes in status were noted at Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP or Smestow Valley. In January, 26 were present at Marsh Lane NR on 14th and 70 at Aldridge Airport on 30th. Visible migration included totals of 72 over Smestow Valley on October 27th and 64 on 29th, 50 at Marsh Lane NR on November 25th and 21 at Fens Pools on 15th.

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor, but in variable numbers. Long-term average: October 11th (70) to April 20th (70). 8-year average: October 8th (–3 days) to April 21st (+1 day). First seen on the early date of September 29th at Hill Hook, the last being at Shooting Butts on April 28th. Warks Substantial flocks recorded in both winter periods added up to one of the best years in recent times. During the first quarter a flock at Long Lawford during January peaked at 46 on 15th, while at nearby Coal Pit Lane, Lawford Heath an even bigger flock reached 130 on February 28th. In the south-west there were flocks of 17 in game cover at Weethley on January 6th and 34 near Abbots Salford on March 11th. Other sites to attract one-five birds during the first quarter included: Arbury Park, Attleborough, Avon Dassett, Brandon, Budbrooke, Charlecote, Draycote, Farnborough Park, Fenny Compton, Hartshill, Knightcote, Nuneaton, Oversley Wood, Studley Castle and Wormleighton Res. In April there was a peak of nine at Draycote on 14th, with the last to be recorded being singles in an Attleborough garden on April 20th and at Shustoke on 22nd. The first autumn migrants were noted flying over Ladywalk on September 30th and Brandon on October 8th. Birds were noted daily from October 12th, with especially good numbers at Ilmington Downs during the autumn, with the flock peaking at 120 on November 24th. Another large flock was found at Upper Spernall on December 14th when 150 were counted. Otherwise the next best count was 15 at Draycote on December 18th, with one-five also reported from: Avon Dassett, Dosthill, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Hodnell, near Kenilworth, Ladywalk, Morton Bagot, Napton Hill, Priors Hardwick, Salford Priors GP, Shuckburgh Hills and both Wormleighton Hill and Res. Worcs Large numbers were present during the first winter period and birds lingered well into April. Croome Landscape Park held four on January 1st and one on 9th, four visited at game crop at Green Street on 1st, a Stoke Bliss garden attracted good numbers between 1st- April 17th, with a maximum count here of 220 on March 2nd, whilst a game crop at Merrilands Farm produced maximum counts of 40 in January and February and 24 in March, with the last bird observed here being on 19th. Two were noted in a Mount Pleasant garden on January 3rd, Abberton held singings on 6th, 27th and February 11th, then 14 on 26th, Holt held one on January 8th, then eight on 11th, 100 were found in a game crop at Longdon Marsh on 8th, but had reduced to just 15 by February 5th and at Lineholt, 10 observed on January 8th, preceded nine on 11th, 20 on 28th and three on February 12th. Kyre held 75 on January 12th, one was at and five at Caunsall on 14th, one at Ladywood Sewage Works on 21st, four at both Callow Hill and Himbleton on 27th, whilst

193 Hill Furze held three on 27th, 25 on 28th, 20 on February 10th, 30 on 12th, four on 26th, 10 on 27th and finally 20+ on March 6th. A Malvern Link garden attracted one on January 27th, then a maximum of three between February 18th-April 2nd, 29 were at Church Lench Pool on February 5th, Huntsfield produced counts of six on 8th, 10 on 16th, 20 on 26th, four on March 25th and five on 30th, singles were observed at Grimley New Workings on February 13th and 18th and Ashwood Bank held 20 on 24th and April 2nd, plus 27 on 9th. One was at Grimley Old Workings on February 25th, singles at Timberhonger during March and April, 100 at Stoke Bliss on March 3rd, an Oakenshaw garden attracted between two and four from 10th-April 16th, plus a count of 10 on April 10th and one was at Croome Landscape Park on March 15th. A Droitwich garden held between two and four birds from 20th-April 8th, singles were at Lower Smite Farm and in a garden at Winyates Green on March 23rd, two at Shenstone on 24th, four at Crabbs Cross on April 10th, one on Walton Hill on 14th and six along Dowles Brook on 15th. The Happy Valley produced a decent passage of birds from mid October, with 18 noted on 15th, five on 17th, 10 on 20th, 18 on 25th, 110 on 27th, 30 on November 1st and 4th, three on 10th and finally two on 23rd. Small totals were observed elsewhere, with the Four Stones and Nimmings area of the Clent Hills holding one on October 21st, eight on 30th, 12 on November 1st, 20+ on 16th and 26th, plus 30 on December 14th. One was at Grimley New Workings on October 22nd, two on the west side of Worcestershire Beacon on 23rd, two at Grimley Church on 24th, five on Bredon Hill on 28th and Lower Smite Farm held one on November 1st, four on 29th and up to four between December 7th-23rd. Game crops at Merrilands Farm held two on November 24th and singles on 28th and December 2nd, whilst singles were at New Farm on 2nd and 16th and two were noted on Bredon Hill on 28th. Staffs In the first winter period, a flock of 100 birds was seen regularly by the Marquis Drive feeding station, with 80 remaining into early April, then numbers petering out until the last four at the Shooting Butts on April 28th. A large flock of 230 wintered at Hollies Common and a spring build up of 200 at Tixall Bridge in early April was also noteworthy. The only other double-figure flock was up to 23 at Whitmore Bent Lane in January, with smaller flocks at 26 other sites. This year, again due to high temperatures in Europe, no birds were observed on visible migration in the autumn, the first returning bird being seen at Belvide on October 15th. Meagre numbers meant only two double-figure flocks: 10 at Cannock Chase near the Marquis Drive feeding stations on October 16th, rising to 55 by December 6th and 10 at Rudyard Lake on November 23rd. Single figure counts came from just 15 other sites. W Mid A total of 17 were with Chaffinches in a stubble field by Aldridge Airport on January 30th. Two birds were at Victoria Park on January 14th and in a Harborne garden from last January into early February. Singles were noted in a Hampstead garden on January 14th-15th, Sandwell Valley on April 5th, Sheepwash UP on 6th, a Haden Hill garden from May 2nd-4th, a Hill Hook garden on October 29th. Early morning skywatches in Smestow Valley saw three flying over on November 3rd and two the next day. Two visited a Bloxwich garden on 9th and three flew over Dunstall Park on 22nd.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Very common to abundant resident. Warks The only significant breeding territory counts were 24 on a 120ha farm at Morton Bagot (cf. 21 in 2005) and six in 40ha at Oldberrow (cf. nine in 2005). During the first quarter several sites had flocks of around 50-80 birds, with some garden feeders hosting 40-50 at a time! The largest reported flocks were of 100 in a game crop at Northend

194 on January 6th and a peak of 125 near Wormleighton Res on 24th. Greenfinch numbers were subsequently badly hit by the Trichomoniasis virus across the north, with 90% of the population thought to have been killed in the Coleshill-Tame Valley district since early July BLK, and this observer reported that he saw no double figure flocks in that area during the second half of the year. A big decline was also noted around Nuneaton NDBC, but despite several sick birds seen there was no perceptible decline in the south-east JJB. Post- breeding flocks appeared to be of average size in the south and east, but the only reported northern flock was feeding in a harvested Borage Borago officinalis field at Alvecote which peaked at 200 on August 28th. Other good-sized flocks included maxima of 270 in a wildbird crop on the Fenny Compton Hills on October 14th, 110 at Ilmington Downs on 27th, 200 in a game crop at Wormleighton Hill on 28th and November 27th, and 150 in a sunflower crop at Compton Verney on December 6th. Worcs Five pairs reported to have bred at Bodenham Arboretum. During the first winter period, a Malvern Link garden produced maximum counts of 10 in January, 20 in February and 15 in March, whilst a game crop at Green Street held 30+ on January 1st, 40 and 60 were at Croome Landscape Park on 1st and 22nd respectively, 60 in a Stoke Bliss garden on 11th and 20 at Longdon Marsh on February 5th. Second winter period sightings comprised 30 on Castlemorton Common on November 9th and 50 near High - wood on 25th. Staffs In the first winter period no large flocks were noted, just typical medium-sized flocks as follows: January at Astonfields Balancing Lakes (27), Doxey (17) and Lightwood (16); February at Astonfields Balancing Lakes (19), Doxey (44), Hanchurch Woods (21) and River Sow Meadows, Baswich (20); March at Astonfields Balancing Lakes (31), Park Hall CP (18), River Sow Meadows (20) and Tittesworth (26). 12 pairs bred at Doxey, this site showing a steady increase year on year from five in 2003. Good sized post-breeding flocks in July and August visited Alrewas (22), Black Bank (20), Cuckoo Bank (120) and Doxey (34). A bird ringed at Brewood on April 7th 2006 made the short journey to Belvide, being recaptured there on 27th July. Visible migration in October at Belvide, birds all heading south-west, comprised 41 on 8th, eight on 14th, 19 on 28th and 22 on 29th. Associated with this was an influx/passage at Berry Hill with 30 on 8th, 100 on 15th, 25 on 27th falling to seven on November 4th. In the second winter period, very few significant flocks perhaps as a result of the Trichomoniasis virus which has been affecting the species nationally: 27 at Doxey on October 14th, 20 at Whitmore Bent Lane on November 29th, 17 at Doxey on December 17th and 40 at Park Hall CP on December 20th. W Mid Two territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot (cf. three last year and an average of 2.9 over the last 14 years). Also noted in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Alcester, Aldridge, Allesley Park, Balsall Common, Black Patch Park, Chadwick End, Chelmsley Wood, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, Hobbs Hole, Kings Norton, Longbridge, Marsh Lane NR, Moseley, Nailcote, Park Lime Pits, Portway, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park, Walsall Arboretum, Warrens Hall LNR and Whitley. First winter period counts included 150 at Birmingham Business Park on January 30th, 42 at Trittiford Park on 31st, 75 in Sandwell Valley during the same month, at least 30 at Winson Green on February 3rd and 24 at Leighswood on 5th. Later in the year, maximum counts included 24 in Coundon Wedge on August 5th and 30 at Marsh Lane NR on 22nd and September 3rd. Early morning skywatches in Smestow Fields saw good numbers of autumn migrants heading generally southwestwards, totals peaking at 48 birds on October 28th, with 40 the next day.

195 Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Very common summer visitor and partial migrant; increasingly common in winter. Warks There were nine breeding territories on a 120ha farm at Morton Bagot (cf. six in 2005) and five in 40ha of pasture and garden at Oldberrow (cf. six in 2005). Flocks of up to 30 were widely reported during the first quarter, with larger counts including 103 feeding on thistles and then teasels at Fenny Compton on January 3rd-4th, 33 feeding on burdock by the River Avon at Marlcliff on 20th, 54 at Brandon on 24th, 50 in alders at Kingsbury on February 23rd and 35 in alders at Coombe Abbey on March 11th. Two interesting roosts were also documented in March, with up to 42 roosting in a Stratford- upon-Avon garden and 75 roosting in a cypress hedge at Fenny Compton. Due to the very abundant thistle flock post-breeding flocks were numerous but very small, with most containing around 20-30 birds. The best counts during the autumn and early winter were 60 at Priors Hardwick on September 7th, 66 at Coton/Lea Marston Pools on October 6th and 60 feeding on teasels at Longbridge STW on December 16th. Other sites to have flocks of around 40-50 included Arley, Brandon, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Ilmington Downs, Kingsbury, Ladywalk, Lighthorne, Napton, Shustoke and Wormleighton Res. Worcs Two or three pairs reared young at Stoke Bliss. First winter period sightings comprised between six and seven birds at a Malvern Link garden feeding station, 20 at Longdon Marsh on February 5th, 12 at Holt Heath on 22nd and 20 at Stoke Bliss on March 2nd. Post-breeding flocks reported from Ashmoor Common, where 25 were noted on July 30th, 20 were at Penny Hill on August 10th, 120 at Throckmorton Lagoons on 21st, 50 at Ryall Pits on September 3rd, 40 at Bittell Reservoir on 17th, increased to 50 on October 7th and 50 were at Clifton Pits on 14th. During the second winter period, 10 flew over Happy Valley on October 27th, 30 were at Holt Heath on November 9th, 20+ at Coombe - green Common on 11th, 25 at Lower Moor STW on 25th and December 26th, 20 at Stoke Bliss on 23rd and 50 at Gwen Finch Wetland on 28th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites: JFMAMJ JASOND Apedale CP/Black Bank ––––––71820110735 Berry Hill 16 23 –––––9012080510 Doxey 14 50 5 7 11 8 40 73 88 143 23 100 River Sow, Baswich––16–––––10–5516 Numbers are down on previous years with good-sized winter flocks thin on the ground. Two pairs bred at Doley, 14 at Doxey (cf. nine in 2005), one at Dovedale and West End Stoke. In the first winter period, the largest flock was 65 at Astonfields Balancing Lakes on January 26th; elsewhere birds were seen: in January at Doley Common (20), Prince Farm, Kings Bromley (50) and Stourton Aqueduct (20); in February at Weston Jones (28) and in March at Tixall Bridge (20). Visible migration at Black Bank comprised just seven heading south on October 3rd and 11 south on 12th. The second winter period had a few large flocks with 143 at Doxey on October 8th being the highest. August counts comprised Stafford Common (30), Tittesworth (60) and Weston Jones (40); September at Belvide (100), Blithfield (80), Stanshope (35), Waterfall (120), Weston Jones (40) and Wettonmill (80); October at Batchacre Hall (30), Belvide (80), Calton (40), Ingestre (35), R. Dove at Fauld (80), Tixall Wide (30) and Wychnor Park (50); November at Elford GP (50), Hanchurch Woods (60) and Westport (40); December at Alton (40), Baggeridge CP (42), Cuckoo Bank (30) and Madeley STW (50). W Mid Recorded in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Allesley Park, Chelmsley

196 Wood, Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Cradley Heath, Dunstall Park, Edgbaston Reservoir, Fens Pools, The Leasowes, Haden Hill Park, Hawne Park, Hill Hook, Kings Norton, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR, Nailcote, Netherton, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley, Warrens Hall LNR and Whitley. A total of 23 birds at Aldridge Airport was the only count received for the first winter period. During the latter half of the year, maximum counts included 92 at Blythe Valley CP on August 23rd, at least 40 on Marsh Lane NR on 9th, 35 in Sandwell Valley in October, 25 at Dunstall Park in December and 40 at Kingswinford on December 1st. 2003 Addendum Warks A flock of over 200 were feeding on thistles at Street Ashton during September.

Siskin Carduelis spinus Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Rare or scarce breeding species. Warks Good numbers were present in the county during the early months, with most taking advantage of a good crop of alder seed. The two largest flocks comprising maxima of 100 at Brandon on January 1st and 15th, and 110 at Farnborough Park on 9th. Other maxima included 36 at Earlswood Lakes January 3rd, 47 at Shustoke on 20th, 45 at Packwood on 22nd, 50 at Abbots Salford on 25th, 50 at Alvecote during January-February, 50 at Kingsbury on February 23rd, 32 at Spernall on March 6th, and 50 at Coombe Abbey on 11th. Flocks of 20-30 were also reported from Arley, Birchmoor, Charlecote, Coton, Dosthill, Draycote, Guy’s Cliffe, Hampton Lucy, Ladywalk, Polesworth, Seeswood Pool, Stoneton Moat and Whitacre Heath. Small numbers continued in the county until mid- April, with many gardens patronised at this time, and the last to be reported were two at Brandon on April 21st and one at Lighthorne Quarry on 22nd. As in 2005 there were several midsummer sightings, with singles at Bentley Woods on June 14th, Draycote on July 6th and two at Compton Verney on 14th; but these had presumably dispersed from elsewhere. The first autumn reports were of singles at Draycote and Salford Priors GP on September 24th, but it was a poor season with only very small numbers appearing. Site maxima included ten at Shustoke on September 28th, seven at Salford Priors GP on October 15th, eight flying west at Brailes Hill on 27th, ten at Compton Verney on November 15th, eight at Earlswood Lakes on December 24th and 18 at Brandon on 28th. Worcs The only breeding season report came from Little Comberton, where an adult was reported between June 17th-July 7th, when on the last date two juveniles were also observed. Numbers not exceptional during the first winter period, the best counts comprising 100+ at Bittell Reservoir between January 2nd-22nd, 40 at Cheaton Brook on 4th, Upton Warren held 25 on 6th, 22 on 21st and 32 on February 28th, 30 at Holt Fishing Pools on January 8th, increased to 90 on 27th, 30 were at Arrow Valley North on 8th, whilst 50 and 40 were at Abberton on 15th and March 13th respectively. 31 were at Evesham on January 17th, 55 at Alfrick Pound on 27th, 30+ at Mill Shrub Pool on 29th, Throckmorton Tip held 25 on February 12th and 21 on March 5th, 50 were at Trimpley Reservoir and 20 at Westwood Pool on February 19th, 50 at Kinsham Lake on 26th, 33 along Dowles Brook on March 11th, 24 and 40 in a Great Malvern garden on 21st and 26th respectively and 20 at The Knapp on 29th. Localities, which held fewer than 20 birds between January and March were Arrow Valley Lake, Astwood Bank, Bushley, Callow Hill, Chaddesley Wood, Church Lench Pool, Croome Landscape Park, Gwen Finch Wetland, Ipsley Alders, a Malvern Link garden, Salwarpe Church, Slade Avenue, Stoke Bliss, Wadborough, Winyates Green and along the River Severn in Worcester. Sighting during April and May comprised, two in a Malvern Link Garden on 1st, then three on 2nd, two on 7th and 11th and three on

197 12th, four were at Broadway from 1st-10th, four at Abberley on 2nd, two at Bittell Reservoir on 8th, one at Pershore Collage on 10th, a pair at Tiddersley wood on 17th, 200+ along Dowles Brook on 15th, reduced to 15 on 29th, a few were noted at Trimpley Reservoir on 30th and one flew over Bredon Hill on May 9th. Totals very poor during the autumn and second winter period. Passage birds were reported over Happy Valley, with three on September 30th, one on October 1st, plus two on 17th and November 23rd. Other October sightings came from Bredon Hill, which held three on 4th, four on 15th, 24 on 20th and eight on 28th, Abberton held one and Bittell Reservoir three on 7th and singles were noted at Little Comberton on 7th and 8th. December records comprised 25 at Trimpley Reservoir on 2nd, 18 at Bittell Reservoir on 4th, 70+ at Hurcott Pool on 10th and 20 at Arrow Valley North, one at Bittell Reservoir and 10 along Dowles Brook all on 17th. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites; p = present: JFMAMJ JASOND Aqualate 25 60 –1––––231015 Belvide 41–212––––11813 Cannock Chase 15 – 20 1264–––302250 Chasewater 3 70 3––––––1–– Doxey 307––1–––141–12 Hanchurch Woods – 1805–––––––20– Knypersley 2010–2–––––6240 Tittesworth 20p24––––1538– The first winter period held good numbers, but in the second winter period, with a warm winter and bumper conifer crops, many Siskins both in the UK and Europe decided to remain close to home and numbers are, as a result, well down. In the first winter period, larger flock counts came in January from Apedale CP (26), Crumpwood (22), Harpers Marsh (20), Norbury Manor (25) and Westport (50); in February from Alders Brook (60), Clayton (60), Denstone (26), Dosthill (30), Elford GP (40) and Loynton Moss (24); in March from Baggeridge CP (30) and Park Hall GP (25) and in April from Rudyard Lake (25) and Silverdale (24). Visible migration was noted between September 30th and October 28th but consisted of just 46 birds (cf. 134 birds last year). Highest counts were from Belvide: 11 south-west on October 7th and 17 south-west on 14th. Also noted on passage at Berry Hill and Black Bank. In the second winter period, the only other double-figure counts were 22 at Black Bank on October 4th, 17 at Berry Hill on 15th, 14 at Sugnall Park on November 19th, 15 at Crumpwood on 22nd and 10 at Cuckoo Bank on December 2nd. W Mid More were seen across the county during the first winter period than in the same period last year. Maxima included 60 at Sheepwash UP and Smestow Valley, and 30 in Sandwell Valley in January, 25 at Olton on 4th, 60 at Blythe Valley CP on 15th, 34 at Priory Fields on 17th, 35 at The Dingles on 24th, 22 at Trittiford Park on 31st, 30 in Coventry on 4th February, 120 at Marsh Lane NR on 24th and 30 at Brueton Park on March 17th. Smaller totals were noted in Brueton Park, Coundon Wedge, Dorridge, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, Hall Green, Hawne Park, Kingswinford, Kings Norton, The Leasowes, Monkspath, Old Swinford, Penn, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Shirley, Sutton Park, Titford Pools, Westwood Heath, Whitley, Winson Green and Wordsley. Other than a maximum of 20 counted flying over Smestow Valley during early morning skywatches from October 24th to November 10th, and 30 about 30 in Blythe Valley on December 23rd, no more than eight were noted during the second winter period at Darby’s Hill, Dorridge, Marsh Lane NR, Mary Stevens Park, Packhorse Bridge NR, Sandwell Valley and Sheepwash UP.

198 Linnet Carduelis cannabina Very common resident and partial migrant, with fewer in winter. Warks A further decline was registered on the census plot at Morton Bagot, with eight territories in 120ha compared to 14 in 2005 and 17 in 2004. Easily the largest flock recorded during the first quarter was that present from 2005 in a stubble field at Kinwalsey which peaked at 700 on January 5th. Other flocks were quite small in comparison, with maxima of 85 at Charlecote GP on January 6th, 80 at nearby Wasperton on 13th, 92 near Abbots Salford on February 4th, 65 at Spernall on March 6th and 125 at Fenny Compton on April 24th, with 70 still there on May 3rd. Flocks of 40-60 were also present during this period at Bidford-on-Avon, Bubbenhall, Dosthill, Long Compton, Morton Bagot, Priors Hardwick and Salford Priors GP. Autumn flocks were as usual much larger and again the biggest of all was located in the north of the county, with up to 800 frequenting abandoned arable fields at Birchmoor from late September to late October. Other sizeable flocks included 200 at Marlcliff on September 16th, over 300 in two flocks at Fenny Compton on 25th-26th, 100 at Napton on October 13th, 160 at Salford Priors GP on 15th, 120 at Wasperton on 24th, 100 by Ennister Wood (Ragley estate) on 29th and 100 in maize stubble at Wormleighton on December 4th. In addition up to 30 regularly came to feeders in a Maxstoke garden during the year, which is still a fairly unusual habit for this species. Worcs The Malvern Hills and Commons continues to sustain a healthy breeding population, for example, many pairs were observed carrying nesting material on Hollybed Common on April 30th and around 40 birds were present here between May and July, whilst 15 were on North Hill on March 26th, two singing males in Chat Valley and another four singing around Sugar Loaf Hill on April 9th, plus over 40 birds were reported from British Camp on July 29th. Two pairs bred at Bodenham Arboretum and other July sightings comprised 10 at Cofton Richards Farm on 3rd and 31st and between 20-25 at Timberhonger on 9th and 11th. During the first winter period, 600 noted on oil seed rape at Croome Farm on January 1st, rocketed to 2000+ on 8th and 1750 on 9th, whilst Merrilands Farm game crop attracted 50+ on 1st, 100+ on 2nd and 7th, 80 on February 2nd, 70 on 4th and 60+ on March 4th. Elsewhere, other notable flocks encountered at Blakedown, where 250 were present on January 24th, Church Lench Pool held 80 on February 5th, 150 were at Drakes Broughton Orchard also on 5th, 100+ at Throckmorton Tip on 19th, 150 at Bewdley on 24th, 50 and 100+ at Mount Pleasant on March 5th and 25th respectively, 100 at Lower Moor on April 16th and 40 at Ryall Pits on 20th. Post- breeding flocks on Bredon Hill comprised 120 on August 21st, then 100+ on 27th, whilst during the second winter period, Clifton Pits held 140 on October 14th, then 200 on 22nd, Lower Moor produced counts of 200 on 15th, 100 on November 4th, 120 on 11th, 70 on 9th and 130 on 27th, 61 were at Comhampton on October 27th, 80+ at Ryall Pits on 29th, 30+ at Merrilands Farm on November 25th, 130 at Lower Smite Farm on 29th and December 30th and 50 at Drakes Broughton Orchard on 2nd. Staffs Breeding pairs reported from fewer sites than last year: Dosthill (one), Doxey (one, cf. three in 2005), Flash (two), Knotbury (two), Round Knowl Farm (one), Silverdale Colliery (five+), Stableford (two), Winkhill (one) and Wolfscote Dale (a family party), with records from a further 22 sites (cf. 31 last year) in the breeding season. First winter period flocks in January were seen at Cuckoo Bank (150), Ellenhall (50), Prince Farm, King’s Bromley (40) and Whitmore Bent Lane (90); in February at Elford GP (50); in March at Keele University (32), Whitemoor Haye (70) and Whittington Common (30); in April at Bednall (30) and Whitmore Bent Lane (30). Visible migration consisted of just 30

199 SW at Belvide on October 1st and 43 flew south-west on 14th. The largest count this year was a post-breeding flock of 375 at Crossplains on September 9th. Elsewhere, flocks were seen in August at Chasewater (30) and Drayton Bassett Pits (50) – the latter remaining well into December; in September at Blithfield (85), Cuckoo Bank (30), Moss Carr (40) and Waterfall Low (40); October at Belvide (60), Blithfield (150) and Cuckoo Bank (250); November at Blithfield (50) and December at Burston (50) and Whitmore Bent Lane (55). W Mid Breeding season reports were received from Bowmans Harbour, Burys Hill, Kingswinford, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR, Netherton Hill, Park Lime Pits, Portway, Sandwell Valley (about six pairs, some successful), Sheepwash UP, Smestow Valley and Sutton Park. Maximum counts in the first winter period included 75 at Marsh Lane NR on January 14th, 50 at Lutley on February 9th and abut 100 at Balsall Common on 11th. In the latter part of the year there were up to 70 at Sheepwash UP and up to 50 at Marsh Lane NR from October onwards, and 25 in Sandwell Valley on December 13th.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris Rare summer visitor to the North Staffs. Moors. Scarce and much declined winter visitor. Warks A female or first-winter bird was found feeding in a paddock at Bramcote Hall on October 3rd RLS, with a mixed flock of Linnets and Goldfinches. Staffs Just singles at Blithfield on March 26th MYa et al and November 12th MPR per ESC. There have been no records from the Moors since 2004.

Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret Fairly common passage migrant and winter visitor. Uncommon or frequent breeding species, mainly in Staffs. Warks Maxima at the main sites during the late winter period were 30 at Brandon on January 20th, up to 40 between Birchmoor and Polesworth during February-March, 30 at Farnborough Park on February 26th and 30 at Ladywalk on April 16th. Smaller flocks of around 10-20 were also noted at Alvecote, Kingsbury, Seeswood Pool, Weston-on-Avon, and Wormleighton Res. The last in spring were six (including two singing males) in Oakley Wood on April 28th and one at Wormleighton Res on May 7th. Apart from an isolated summer report of one at Brandon on July 5th, no more were seen until the first autumn return at Fenny Compton on September 26th. Small parties of up to ten were widely recorded in the autumn from about October 8th, with maxima of 12 at Salford Priors GP on October 15th, 19 at Ladywalk on 23rd, 36 at Kingsbury on December 12th, 16 near Kenilworth on 15th, 20 at Middleton Hall on 19th and 35 at Brandon on 24th. Worcs The only report of singing males came from Ayton’s Heath, where two were recorded on April 17th. Good numbers present in the county during the first winter period, with a game crop at Merrilands Farm produced counts of 60+ on January 1st, 120+ on 2nd, 150 on 7th, 200 on 8th, then total fluctuated between 50 and 80+ birds until March 19th. This same flock also visited a nearby game crop at New Farm, where 60 noted on January 30th, preceded counts of 80+ on February 4th and 6th, then 60 on 17th, 28th and March 8th. Niger seed feeders in a Malvern Link garden attracted maximum counts of three in January, 20 in February and 24 in March, 25 visited a game crop at Bickley on January 4th, 100+ were at Lineholt on 8th, then 160 on 11th, 20 at Holt Fishing Pools on 11th, 60 at Blakedown on 24th and 40 at Defford Airfield on March 7th. Other reports between January and March not exceeding 20 birds came from Arrow Valley North, Church Lench Pool, Grimley New Workings, Ipsley Alders, Sheriff’s Lench, Stoke Prior, Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. A few birds lingered throughout April and early May, with the afore

200 mentioned Malvern Link garden holding 17 on 1st, 20 on 2nd, 14 on 11th, 18 on 16th, nine on 27th and finally three on 30th. Feeders at Lodge Hill Farm attracted nine on 8th, five on 16th, six on 26th and several on May 1st, singles were observed at Hewell Grange on April 10th and Lower Moor on 15th, 20 were at Merrilands Farm on 16th and Trimpley Reservoir held 50 on 22nd, then seven on 30th. Happy Valley produced the first autumn birds, with nine present on September 30th and hereafter, counts comprised seven on October 15th, 20 on 17th, 15 on 20th, 30 on 25th, 40 on 27th and eight on November 23rd. Elsewhere, 15 were at Grimley New Workings on October 19th, Castlemorton Common held 36 on 29th, then 30 on November 9th, 20 were observed along Dowles Brook on 25th, 19 at Bodenham Arboretum on December 2nd, 15 at Kempsey Church on 8th and 12 in a Winyates Green garden on 18th. Localities that produced counts below 10 were Arrow Valley Lake, Bredon Hill, Eymore Wood, Golden Valley, Grimley Old Workings, Gwen Finch Wetland, Hollybed Common, Kinsham Lake, Lower Moor, Lower Smite Farm, Malvern Link, Monk Wood, New Farm, Ombersley Golf Course, Upper Bittell Reservoir and Upton Warren. Staffs

Monthly maxima at selected sites; p=present: JFMAMJ JASOND Apedale CP 36 2 50––––––740– Aqualate 10446–––––11010 Baggeridge CP 12 – 3 30 –––––––3 Beech 130––1––––––200– Belvide 16863–––––8311 Byrkley Park 175200–––––––––– Cannock Chase – – – 12 –––––2501750 Chasewater 2–7––––––402530 Doxey 7341–––––107– Hanchurch Woods 14 40 30 15 ––––––45300 Lightwood 12 20 16411–––––– Tittesworth 20p1024p–2–6540 Breeding was confirmed at Revidge and Swallow Moss; a pair being seen feeding a juvenile at each site. Displaying/singing birds were observed at Gib Torr and Tittesworth with two birds also present at Park Hall CP in June. In the first winter period, larger untabulated flock counts were recorded in January at Farley (40); in February at Branston GP (10) and Whitemoor Haye (10); in March at Branston GP (45); in April at Bishop’s Wood (24), Drayton Bassett Pits (10), Hatton Common (10), Park Hall CP (12) and the Trent-Mersey Canal, Stoke (10). In October very few visible migrants passed through (see Siskin) with just seven south-west at Black Bank on 12th, five south-west at Belvide on 14th and eight south-west there on 25th. In the second winter period, higher counts in October at Berry Hill (10) and Downs Bank (20); November at Dimmingsdale (120); December at Cuckoo Bank (60) and River Sow Meadows (16). W Mid Records in the first half of the year included a high of 32 in Smestow Valley on January 5th, 30 at Reedswood Park on 18th, 20 at Sheepwash UP on 29th, 25 in Sandwell Valley in April and 30 in Longmoor Valley (Sutton Park) on 18th. Up to six were also noted at The Dingles, Fens Pools, Haden Hill Park, Harborne NR, Hay Head Wood, Kings - winford, Marsh Lane NR, Olton Mere, Trittiford Park and Winson Green. In the second half of the year, there were seven at Fens Pools on October 20th, ten over Smestow Valley on 29th, 33 in Sandwell Valley in November, 12 at Reedswood Park on December 6th, 14 over Dunstall Park on 19th, 15 at Packhorse Bridge NR on 26th and 20 in Longmoor Valley (Sutton Park) on 30th.

201 Common (Mealy) Redpoll Carduelis flammea Rare or scarce winter visitor in fluctuating numbers. Warks A male accompanied a party of Lesser Redpolls at Wormleighton Res on February 11th JJB. A mixed flock of Siskins and Redpolls between Birchmoor and Polesworth yielded two on February 12th-13th AAr, RLS, two probably different birds on March 4th RLS, and one on 12th SMH. There were six further reports from three widely separated sites during January and February, but all lacked confirmation. Worcs Birds that arrived at Merrilands Farm game crop during November and December 2005 remained in residence throughout the first winter period. Counts here comprised four on January 1st and 2nd, six on 3rd, singles on 4th and 5th, two on 6th, four on 7th and 9th, one on 12th and 13th, three on 19th, two on 20th, one on 21st, two on February 2nd, three on 11th, two on 17th, three on 22nd, five on March 3rd, three on 4th and finally one on 10th AWa, SMW et al. These birds also ventured to the New Farm game crop, where three were present on January 30th, one on February 4th, two on 6th, three on 10th, two on 17th and 28th and one on March 8th AWa, SMW et al. Elsewhere, Holt Fishing Pools held a male on January 2nd and 8th, two males on 11th, one on 22nd, two on 28th and an female/immature on 29th BRS et al, whilst singles frequented Lineholt on 8th and 11th GHP et al, a Stoke Prior garden feeder on 13th GGr, TMH, Grimley New Workings on 30th BRS, Mount Pleasant on February 7th CLa, Kinsham Lake on 26th and Upton Warren on March 24th DREW. A Malvern Link Garden held a ringed bird on March 3rd, plus a second individual, this time unringed, on 12th and 29th MWCW.

Lesser Redpoll, Dave Taylor and Mealy Redpoll, Crabbe Tree Farm, Andy Warr

Staffs One was present at Hanchurch Woods from January 31st-February 5th NDP. W Mid Two were watched with 12 Lesser Redpolls in the Smestow Valley on February 9th GAC – the second local record. One noted at Sheepwash UP in April per AGW. At Priory Fields, one was reported on January 17th, with 12 on 30th, one on February 10th, two on March 13th and one on 31st.

Redpoll sp. Worcs A large dark individual was observed briefly amongst a Linnet flock at Merri - lands Farm game crop on January 2nd AWa et al and was considered to show characteristics

202 of the Greenland race. The bird appeared similar in size and structure to Linnet, was rather dark brown on the upper parts, with strongly marked black lines on the flanks and a heavily streaked pale rump, but two pale lines down the centre of the mantle, seemed not ideal for Greenland and bill structure was not ascertained, so its true identity remains unclear.

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Frequent, though variable, irruptive visitor. Rare and erratic breeding species. Warks There were a handful of records during the year, commencing with single birds at Compton Verney on January 20th JJB and Bentley Woods on March 22nd JHa. A small influx in May produced three at Temple Pool, Upton on 1st PDou, RJE, six moving north at Pillerton Hersey on 16th JJB, one in an Oldberrow garden on 29th JJB, and four at Windmill Hill NR on 31st DHu. Three, including a red male, were drinking from a pond at Billesley on June 25th per PWo, while the year concluded with three more flying south- west over Fenny Compton on September 12th JJB. Worcs Very thin on the ground this year, the only records being six over Croome Landscape Park on January 14th, Dowles Brook held six on April 6th, 15 on 15th, one on 19th, two on 29th, 19 on 30th and six on May 4th, one was on Walton Hill on April 15th, two on Bredon Hill on October 28th and one flew over North Hill on November 1st. Staffs The substantial influx of birds from summer 2005 into our conifer woodlands, continued into 2006, with breeding confirmed at Hanchurch Woods where a nest was located and courtship observed. Breeding probably also occurred at the other sites tabled below:

Site Peak Count Peak Count Date Last Seen Bishopʼs Wood 8 April 27th April 27th Cannock Chase 45 February 11th June 23rd Hanchurch Woods 25 April 20th May 18th Maer Hills 14 May 7th May 7th Million Plantation 40 – Early June After dispersal, a dismal second winter period produced just two sightings, one at Pepper Slade on November 7th, the other flying north over Silverdale Colliery on December 9th.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common resident. Warks The only significant breeding record was of four pairs on 40 ha of farmland at Oldberrow, compared to five in 2005. Counts of a dozen or more included 15 at Weston- on-Avon on January 5th, 12 at Lighthorne Quarry on October 17th, 17 by the Oxford Canal at Fenny Compton on November 12th, 20 at Ladywalk on 23rd, 13 at Earlswood Lakes on December 24th and 12 at Brandon on 29th. Worcs Under recorded in the county, with the few records received being a single pair bred at Bodenham Arboretum, whilst present at Hollywood, Little Comberton, the Malvern Hills, Old Hills and Upton Warren during the breeding season. First winter period sightings comprised 12-13 in a garden during January and February, four at Longdon Marsh on January 2nd, five at Upton Warren on 3rd, eight at Throckmorton Lagoons during March and seven in a Oakenshaw garden on 10th. In September, eight were noted on Bredon Hill on 9th and 10 in Happy Valley on 10th, whilst Kinsham Lake held six on November 2nd and Castlemorton Common, nine on December 27th. Staffs A widespread bird with breeding confirmed or presumed at Baggeridge CP (pair with three young), Black Bank (two juveniles), Doxey (four pairs, one juvenile) and Pipe

203 Green (two pairs), with records from a further 15 sites in June and July. Double figure flock counts were submitted from Black Bank (10 in March), Chasewater (12 in January, 11 in April), Lum Edge (10 in January), Marquis Drive (10 in February), Park Hall CP (12 in January, 11 in March, 10 in April, 12 in December) and Tittesworth (13 in March). W Mid Three territories were recorded on the Mons Hill CBC plot, marking a further decline from six of two years ago, but still comparing well against the average of 2.9 over the last 14 years. Also recorded in the breeding season at Acocks Green, Alcester, Allesley Park, Black Patch Park, Castle Vale, Coundon Wedge, Daisy Bank, Dorridge, Dunstall Park/Smestow Valley area (several pairs), Fens Pool, Harborne NR, Kingswinford, The Leasowes, Marsh Lane NR (up to four pairs), Moseley, Olton Mere, Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (two or three pairs) and Sutton Park. Also noted at Ackers, Bartley Reservoir, Blythe Valley, Coombeswood, The Dingles, Haden Hill Park, Hall Green, Hill Hook, Kings Norton, Knowle, Nailcote, Oakham, Penn, Priory Fields, Reedswood Park, Trittiford Park, Warrens Hall LNR, Whitehouse Common and Winson Green. Counts included eight at Marsh Lane NR on January 17th, Hall Green on 22nd and Sandwell Valley on 23rd, 12 at The Dingles on 31st, 12 in Smestow Valley on February 2nd and 11 at Trittiford Park on 5th.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes Scarce to uncommon, but declining, resident. Warks Following the exceptional autumn influx of 2005 about a dozen were reported from the county during the first quarter, mainly from the south-west. Two remained in the country park at Draycote through most of January, with three reported on 11th. Single birds continued to be reported there regularly up until March 9th many observers. Also from 2005, the bird at Temple Grafton continued to visit a garden there until March 13th AFJG. Other records were of a bird feeding under an apple tree at DMC Kineton on January 29th PDou, two in an orchard at Studley Castle on the same date per Birdguides, two feeding under a hornbeam tree in a Great Alne garden on February 3rd JJB, two in a Clopton (Stratford) garden for a few days up to April 7th per JJB, with the last report concerning a bird still in non-breeding plumage in a Haselor garden on May 7th MDa. In the autumn two were seen in a Combrook orchard on November 15th JJB, a day of heavy thrush movements. Worcs A pair, with one juvenile was observed at Dodford on September 30th. Unprece- dented numbers remained in the county between January and March, as a result of the large influx recorded from mid October 2005. At Chase End Wood, a traditional wintering site for this species, three+ were present on January 1st, followed by two on 18th and 19th. Elsewhere, Croome Landscape Park held fluctuating numbers between January 1st-March 22nd, with maximum counts of 20 on January 15th, 13 on February 15th, 18 on 17th, 17 on March 11th and 10 on 13th. Singles were observed at Crabbe Tree Farm on January 4th and 22nd, Rous Lench churchyard held two on 4th, three on 5th, five on 7th, then singles or pairs up until February 13th, whilst at Winyates Green and Winyates East, Redditch, singles were observed on January 15th, 22nd and February 2nd, two on 4th and 11th, singles on 12th, March 12th and 13th, two again on 18th, one on 21st, five on 23rd and finally singles on 25th and 26th. Other sighting from Redditch comprised one in a garden at Lakeside on February 5th, two along Rush Lane on March 9th and an Oakenshaw garden held one on 10th, two on 11th and singings from April 1st-11th. Harvington churchyard held two between February 3rd-17th, one was at Kemerton Park on 4th, preceded two on March 30th, a small playing field off Slade Avenue, Worcester, held three on 9th, 10th and

204 11th, seven on 12th, three on 13th, then one or two birds between 14th-25th. Other March sightings were of one at Sinton Green on 10th and two at Spring Lane Industrial Estate on 13th and 14th. Just a single record during the second winter period, with one reported from Upper Bittell Reservoir on November 26th. Staffs The three wintering birds at Ingestre from 2005 remained in the area from New Year’s day until February 6th. W Mid Four were at Marsh Lane NR on February 24th per NPB.

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis Rare passage migrant, mainly in autumn, and winter visitor. Worcs All reports this year came from Worcestershire Beacon, where three birds that arrived in December 2005 TT et al, remained until February 8th, then two were reported between 10th-March 13th, three again on 14th and 15th and singles from 16th-23rd. A male was also present from October 2nd-5th TTr et al and another on November 28th PGa. Staffs A remarkable long- Snow Bunting, Chasewater, Dave Kelsall stayer discovered at Chase - water on December 1st IWa, PWa remained until the year’s end and well into 2007.

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Very common to abundant, though declining, resident. Warks Territory counts included 20 on a 120 ha farm at Morton Bagot (for the third year in succession, indicating a very stable population) and 29 in 100 ha of farmland at Shipston-on-Stour (cf. 31 in 2003). Few counts tend to come from the north of the county where the species may be in steady decline. A total of eight singing males recorded on a six mile bicycle ride in the Coleshill/Maxstoke area, compared to 12 in five miles around the same area in 2003 RJK would seem to support this. Outside the breeding season the largest flocks in the south and east of the county during the first quarter were of 158 west of Abbots Salford on February 4th, a peak of 115 near Wormleighton Res on 11th and 150 feeding on spilt grain at Armscote on March 23rd. Flocks of 40-50 were noted at ten further sites. In the north and north-east the best count was 62 at Maxstoke on January 2nd, with further flocks of 27 at Lawford Heath and 31 at Bodymoor Heath in January and 27 at Curdworth in February. After an interesting report of up to 40 coming to a Shipston-on- Stour garden feeding station in August, flocks of around 30-40 were widely reported in the south and east. The best were 70 at Ilmington Downs on November 24th and 140 in unharvested wheat at Priors Hardwick on December 15th. 30 at Shawbury on November 25th was the only sizeable flock reported in the north. Worcs During the breeding season, Lodge Hill Farm held four birds on April 4th, whilst two singing male remain here on territory throughout. Singing males were recorded from

205 eight locations around Timberhonger and two sang on Hollybed Common between April and July. Lea End held a singing male on March 3rd, two were at Shenstone and eight at Burys Hill on April 13th, one on Castlemorton Common on 16th and three pairs frequented Devils Spittleful on June 17th. During the first winter period, four were at Feckenham Wylde Moor on January 4th and larger groups comprised 55 at Bickley also on 4th, 30 at Hill Furze on 27th, preceded counts of 40 on February 10th, 100+ on 12th and 60+ on 26th, Longdon Marsh held 30 on February 5th, 17 were at Little Comberton on 19th and 28 at Cleeve Prior on 21st. Post-breeding records comprised six on Bredon Hill on August 27th, followed by 12 here on October 15th, two at British Camp on 2nd, four at Upton Warren on 22nd, 15 at Merrilands Farm and two at Ryall Pits on 29th, 27 at Little Comberton on November 12th and New Farm produced counts of 30+ on 24th and 40+ on December 16th. 16 were seen along Tandy Lane on November 26th, 25 increased to 45 at Longdon Marsh on December 10th and 16th respectively, 35 were at Lower Moor on 11th and 50 on Bredon Hill above Westmancote on 15th. Staffs Records were received from 58 sites during the breeding season, slightly more than 2005 (just over 50) but no nest sites or juveniles confirmed anywhere in the county. Singing males were recorded at Belvide (pair also seen mating on adjacent farmland), Coldmeece (three), Cotes Heath (two), Doxey (one), Drayton Bassett Pits (one), Hanchurch Woods (two in adjacent farmland), Knightley Eaves (two), Lower Hatton (three), Millmeece (three), Netherset Hey (three), Strawberry Hill (one), Stepping Stones (pair), Weston Jones (two), Weston Jones Mill (five), Whitemoor Haye (five), Whitleyford Bridge (two), Whitley Heath (three+), Wincote Grange (one) and Wootton (two). Observers are requested to submit more information on singing and breeding birds due to the species national decline. Double-figure flocks were recorded in January at Aston/Burston (11), Byrkley Park (10), Norbury Manor (27), Whitemoor Haye (10) and Whitmore Bent Lane (40); in February at Aston/Burston (20), Byrkley Park (10) and Norbury Park (50); in March at Anslow (60), Aston/Burston (10), Branston WP (30) and Whitemoor Haye (12). As in 2005, Yellowhammers seem to disappear off the radar in August and September, recorded at 14 sites in August and just three in September with five at Knightley Eaves being the highest count. In the second winter period, counts of double- figure flocks came in October from Kemsey Manor (10) and Packington Moor (54 near Hopwas Wood); in November from Highgate Common (16) and Whitmore Bent Lane (20)and in December from Enson (39), Norbury Manor (22) and Weston Jones Mill (16). W Mid Recorded during the breeding season at Aldridge, Balsall Common, Burys Hill, Dorridge/Hockley Heath area (seven males noted on June 14th), Hobbs Hole, Lutley, Marsh Lane NR, Park Lime Pits, Sandwell Valley, Smestow Valley, Sutton Park and Wall Heath. High counts in the first winter period included 15 in Sandwell Valley on January 14th and over 35 at Marsh Lane NR in February.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Common, though declining, resident. Warks Counts of four or more singing males during the breeding season came from: Abbots Salford (four), Alvecote (four), Brandon (at least ten), Charlecote GP (four, cf. seven in 2005), Dosthill/Fishers Mill GP area (ten), Fenny Compton (five, cf. 11 in 2005), Knightcote (seven), Lighthorne Quarry (16), Napton Res (nine in area), Priors Hardwick (12), Salford Priors GP (16, cf. seven in 2005), Shipston STW (four), Wasperton (four, cf. 12 in 2005) and Wormleighton Res (eight in area). A good number of winter flocks were reported, with maxima during the early months including 30 at Marlcliff Hill on January

206 20th, 40 at Draycote on 21st, 20 near Abbots Salford on February 4th, 25 near Worm- leighton Res on 11th, 25 at Salford Priors GP on 12th, 40 in bean stubble at Knightcote on 21st and 21 at Morton Bagot on March 13th. During the autumn a flock feeding in stubble at Salford Priors GP reached a peak of 55 on October 1st, while lesser flocks included 20 at Napton Res on October 13th and 20 at Priors Hardwick on 30th. Also of note were up to nine visiting a Nuneaton garden during January-March and again in December. Worcs Observed during the breeding season at Grimley Old Workings, Holt Prairies (four pairs), Lower Moor Flash (five pairs), Oakley Pool, along the River Cole, at Alve - church (two singing), Strensham Lagoons (three singing), Upton Warren and Westwood Pool. Counts during the first winter period comprised 18 at Upton Warren on January 2nd, a game crop at Merrilands Farm held 26 on 2nd, 40 on February 6th, 48 on 10th and 20+ on 26th, 15 and 30 were at Longdon Marsh on January 8th and February 26th respectively, 20+ at Kinsham Lake on 4th, 35 at Church Lench Pool on 5th, three in a suburban garden at Winyates Green from 6th-March 19th, 20 at Tilesford on 7th and 18 at Abberton on 13th. Autumn and second winter period sighting included 15 at Gwen Finch Wetland on September 12th, 10 at Holt Prairies on November 9th and New Farm game crop held counts of 20+ on 25th, 15 on 26th and 20+ on December 16th. Elsewhere, 30+ were in a game crop at Lower Smite Farm and 10 in a game crop at Merrilands Farm on November 29th, 40 and 35 were noted at Lower Moor on 29th and December 22nd respectively and eight were noted at Longdon Marsh on 10th. Staffs Breeding territories were located at Alrewas (three), Apedale CP (two), Aqualate (two), Astonfields Balancing Lakes (two+), Belvide (eight), Berry Hill (10), Black Bank (three), Blake Brook, Blith- field (four), Castletown Pool, Cheddle ton/Consall Valley (three), Coldmeece (three), Doley (three), Doxey (65 – about average for the past three years), Goldsitch Moss (four), Hulme End, Lower Hatton (two), Lum Edge, Morridge Top, Newtown (two), Pipe Green (three), Reapsmoor, Revidge, River Sow Meadows (15), Reed Bunting, Whitacre Heath, Steve Valentine Round Knowl Farm, Rudyard Lake (two), Silverdale Colliery, Stableford (three), Swallow Moss (two), Tittesworth, Tixall Bridge (three), Waterfall, Winkhill (two), Woodhead and 37 other sites during the breeding season – no significant change from last year. An adult ringed on 31st December 2004 at Belvide was re-trapped there on 2nd May 2006, obviously a resident breeding bird. Again at Belvide, an incredible 118 birds were counted flying in to roost in front of the Scott Hide on February 2nd – the first treble-figure count for many years and equalling the 120 recorded at the same site in January 1994. At Wetley Moor, 30 in January dropped to 10-12 in February-April, and up to 11 were counted at Doxey during the same period. Counts elsewhere include: in January Elford GP (10) and Whitmore Bent Lane (10); in

207 March Brocton Field (12), Dosthill (10) and River Sow Meadows at Baswich (10); September Berry Hill (20); October Doxey (26) and Chasewater (20); in November Doxey (11) and Wetley Moor (12)and in December Doxey (13) and Wetley Moor (35). W Mid Breeding season records were received from Clayhanger, Coundon Wedge, Dunstall Park (a pair fledged three young), Fens Pools, Marsh Lane NR (at least ten pairs), Park Lime Pits, Saltwells LNR, Sandwell Valley, Sheepwash UP (two pairs), Smestow Valley (two pairs), Steelpark Way (Wednesfield) and Sutton Park. Counts at Marsh Lane NR included 11 in January and October, and 12 in April.

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra Fairly common, though much declined, resident. Warks This bird still gives grave cause for concern and is apparently now declining in all core areas. Singing males in the breeding season were only located at: Armscote (two), Birchmoor (two), Brailes, Bramcote Hall, Farnborough, Long Itchington (six, cf. at least ten present in the same area in 2005), Milcote (three) and Wasperton (three). Breeding was proved at several of these sites. Outside the breeding season two sizeable flocks were reported, with 30 at Weston-on-Avon on January 5th and 40 at Armscote on March 23rd. Away from breeding sites, there were also a handful of records of up to four birds outside the breeding season from Abbots Salford, Draycote, Fenny Compton, Ilmington Downs, Lawford Heath, Salford Priors GP and Wormleighton Res, but mainly from the first quarter. Worcs Between 19 and 21 singing males recorded from 10 localities across the county, compared to around 14 singing from nine localities in 2005. Reports during the breeding season comprised two nesting pairs at Little Comberton, Lower Moor held one on April 5th, four on 17th, three on 30th and May 12th and two on June 13th, a pair were noted at Bury End Flash on April 7th and at Shenstone, one was observed on 19th, three males on 24th, two on 30th and May 3rd, one on June 11th and five on 19th. Two singing males at Bricklehampton on April 16th, increased to three on May 6th, Ryall Pits held a single male between April 30th-July 16th, one was singing at Gwen Finch Wetland on May 6th, one at Podmore on 7th, one at Throckmorton Tip on 13th and June 17th, whilst at Tilesford, three were noted on 14th, one on July 12th and two on 14th. Becoming a difficult species to observed during the winter months, with the only first winter period sightings being of five at Hill Furze on January 28th, then two at the same locality on March 6th. Second winter period sighting comprised three at Wick on October 19th, two at Lower Moor on 29th, 19 flew over Little Comberton on November 12th, one was at New Farm game crop on 26th, two at both Throckmorton Tip and Tilesford on 8th and singles at Lower Moor on December 13th and 28th. Staffs Recorded in 20 5km squares this year, the best this decade, but the maximum county flock count was lower than in the previous two years.

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 No. of 5km Squares 66881020 Max. Flock Size 17 44 6 30 38 25

25 singing males were located, compared with 19 last year, at Knightley Eaves, Loggerheads (two), Stableford, Swindon, Trysull (a pair with four fledglings the only confirmed breeding record), Weeford–Packington Moor area (six), Whitemoor Haye (nine) and Whittington Common (five). In addition, breeding season birds were also seen at Alrewas (five), Catholme (one), Crossplains (one), Handsacre Flash (one), High Offley

208 (one) and Roddige Farm (one). Whilst some new sites were found this year, no records came from Bednall and Leawood, which held singing birds in 2005. Wintering numbers were down at Whitemoor Haye, the largest flock count being just 10 (cf. 35 in 2005) but peaking at 25 in July, presumably a post-breeding flock. Elsewhere, there were two at Whitmore Bent Lane on January 1st-February 13th, singles at Essington Quarry Pool on January 22nd, Trescott Grange on March 1st, Fradley on 25th, two at Blithfield on October 2nd, 10 at Batchacre Hall on 15th, two over Belvide on 28th and one at Barton GP on November 26th. W Mid Twelve were noted at Amblecote on January 31st.

Appendix 1 This includes: • all records of species on the GB list in Categories A-C which have only been recorded in the region as known or suspected escapes. This would include sedentary introduced species such as Golden Pheasant which don’t have established populations in the region, and are unlikely to wander naturally to the area from these populations. • all records of species currently in Category D of the GB list. This would include such species as Marbled, Falcated and White-headed Ducks, Ross’s Goose, Saker and Red- headed Bunting.

Any record appearing in Appendix 1 is excluded from the main county lists.

Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Warks Single birds (perhaps the same) were at Farnborough Park on February 26th and March 17th JJB and Draycote on March 8th RBR. Staffs Two at Croxden Quarry on May 27th-June 4th, one at Brookleys Lake on June 2nd, one at Tittesworth on July 16th, presumably the same two birds at Belvide and Gailey on September 17th and nine at Aqualate on December 17th.

Rossʼs Goose Anser rossii Staffs The small hybrid feral bird at Madeley Pond (from 2004) was present for most of the year, being last seen on October 18th.

Lesser Canada Goose Branta hutchinsii Warks A bird resembling the nominate form B. h. hutchinsii, known as Richardson’s Canada Goose, was in the goose flock on the river meadows at Hampton Lucy on December 12th JJB. Staffs Three were at Belvide (race minima) on April 22nd and two at Blithfield on October 9th.

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Warks Three birds were at Kingsbury on August 8th NDG, and then at Alvecote from September 5th-14th RLS, during which time they also visited Kingsbury again during 7th- 9th SLC, WJE et al and Ladywalk on 13th JHa. A male and female were again in the Dosthill/Kingsbury area on September 27th ARD et al. W Mid Two birds were at Stubbers Green between October 9th and 29th, with probably the same at nearby Ryders Mere on 15th.

209 Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus Warks The escaped male was at Alvecote fairly regularly throughout the year RLS et al. The second male from 2005 was last reported on the at Polesworth on March 3rd.

Golden Pheasant Chrysolophus pictus Worcs A male was sighted at Nash End on March 31st, April 1st and 30th. Same bird present in March and April 2004 and April 2005. Staffs A male was at Woodhead from April 3rd-8th.

Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Warks A very vocal bird was at Ryton Pools CP on April 24th MSm but not subsequently. This bird was relatively confiding and was watched perched in a tree and in flight. There have been at least two other probable or unconfirmed sightings near Coventry in recent years suggesting that birds are kept in captivity locally.

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea Warks A female carrying a pink plastic ring frequented a harvested Borage field at Alvecote from August 28th-September 3rd RLS et al.

Appendix 2 – Exotica The following species all fall into Category E of the British List (BOU 1998), as being introductions, transportees or escapees from captivity and whose breeding populations are not thought to be self-sustaining. The sequence and the nomenclature used in this section follow Birds of the World – A Check List, 5th Edition J.F. Clements (2000).

Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolour E. Africa, S. Asia and S. America Warks One at Draycote on May 13th-14th. Staffs One was present at Branston GPs on May 20th.

Black Swan Cygnus atratus Lakes in Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand, where introduced. Warks Single birds were noted at Kingsbury on January 19th and Shustoke on 26th. Two were again with the Mute Swan flock at Coton from at least May 6th-August 12th. A bird was also present fairly regularly at Alvecote for much of the year. Worcs An adult was at Bredon’s Hardwick on April 9th, June 11th, October 29th and November 20th. Staffs Four were regular at Dunstall throughout the year. Two at Brookley’s lake from August 12th until year end increased to five on November 5th. One spent most of August at Tameside Nature Reserve. Other sightings came from Whitemoor Haye on January 24th- 25th, Belvide on February 5th, Elford GP on 9th-12th, Blithfield on August 23rd, three at Rocester on September 14th and one at Drayton Bassett Pits on October 1st. W Mid Presumably the same bird was noted at Marsh Lane NR from January 2nd to February 5th, March 4th-31st and August 10th to October 14th, with another at Moseley Park from September 20th-24th.

210 Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Western North America Staffs One at Blithfield on March 19th moved to Wolseley Bridge March 21st-22nd and Tixall Bridge on April 27th, then back to Blithfield on June 18th and Wolseley Bridge from July 2nd-14th and finally River Dove at Fauld on October 15th. The bird had a yellow ring on its right leg.

Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus Breeds on the high plateaux in central and southern Asia and winters mainly in northern India and Burma. Warks Only one bird was observed this year at the former breeding site at DMC Kineton, where it remained from at least February 19th-October 18th. One was noted at Draycote on July 6th and up to three were there from at least August 7th-September 24th. Two were also on the Avon meadows at Hampton Lucy in November-December. In the north of the county single birds were noted mainly during the summer months at both Alvecote and Kingsbury. Staffs All sightings probably relate to just one bird, but perhaps as many as three. One seen regularly at Whitemoor Haye from January 8th-May 31st also visited Elford GP on April 23rd and Barton GP on May 14th. Subsequently, one was seen at Blithfield on August 7th and 11th-12th, Ingestre on 23rd, Whitemoor Haye on September 7th and Blithfield on September 29th until October 30th. Finally, one at Whitemoor Haye on November 14th took up residence at Croxall GP from 18th until December 2nd, then Blithfield on 6th. W Mid Probably the same adult was seen at Dunstall Park on January 26th and February 1st and 26th.

Domestic Goose W Mid At Dunstall Park, one was noted on March 1st, with three on September 11th and one on 25th.

Cape/South African Shelduck Tadorna cana Karoo of southern Africa. Warks A female at Brandon on March 23rd, April 6th and October 10th was reported to have been seen elsewhere in the local area.

Radjah Shelduck Tadorna radjah Australasia and New Guinea. Staffs One was seen at Gailey Reservoir on December 9th.

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata Lowlands of Mexico to NE Argentina and Brazil. Worcs Arrow Valley Lake held one on May 1st, two on 27th and one on July 8th, whilst one was at Hewell Grange on November 11th. Staffs One at Bateswood Lake on March 13th remained all year. W Mid Two were recorded at Walsall Arboretum on March 30th, June 14th and August 22nd.

211 Ringed Teal Callonetta leucophrys South America. Staffs One was at Gailey Reservoir on November 11th.

Wood Duck Aix sponsa Forested woodlands and Inland lakes of Canada, south to northern Mexico. Warks A male was again noted at Alvecote occasionally during the year. Worcs The River Severn at Worcester held a drake on January 23rd and March 11th. Staffs Two females were at Filleybrooks on February 5th, where up to three were reported by locals from the New Year. W Mid A drake remained on the canal at (Birmingham) from mid October to early December, at least. A pair arrived in Sandwell Valley on December 23rd and stayed to the end of the year.

Chiloe Wigeon Anas sibilatrix Open wetlands in southern South America and the Falkland Islands. Staffs One was at Brookleys Lake on November 5th.

Speckled (Chilean) Teal Anas flavirostris South America. Staffs A male lingered at Belvide from November 19th until December 8th.

White-cheeked (Bahama) Pintail Anas bahamensis Locally in South America, the West Indies and Galapagos Islands. Warks Singles were at Earlswood Lakes (from 2005) until at least February 3rd and at Alvecote on July 6th. Staffs One was at Croxall GP on May 6th. W Mid One was seen at Tocil Pools on February 20th.

Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota Africa south of the Sahara. Staffs One was seen at Swan Lake, The Wolseley Centre on May 24th, then at Blithfield on August 5th.

Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis Warks A male was at Salford Priors GP on July 16th and October 15th.

Chukar Alectoris chukar Balkans to Tibet, Mongolia and north China. Warks A party of eight showing characteristics of this species were noted on Ilmington Downs on November 3rd, but were not seen subsequently suggesting they had all been shot.

Green Pheasant Phasianus versicolor Japan Warks A male was seen at Compton Verney on December 6th.

212 Reevesʼ Pheasant Syrmaticus reevesii North-central China Staffs One was seen going to roost with Pheasants on May 8th at Stourton.

Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus Forests and scrub of E Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka. W Mid The male bird first recorded in Smestow Valley in 1999 was again noted between March and June.

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Africa W Mid Five were seen in Smestow Valley on December 11th at least.

Harrisʼs Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus Semi-arid woodland and scrub in South and Central America, north to southern Texas and Arizona. Warks A bird wearing jesses was at Brandon on April 23rd. A bird first seen at Priors Marston on August 15th remained in the local area for at least a month. W Mid One, wearing jesses, flew over the M5 in Sandwell Valley on March 21st.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus Open habitats throughout inland Australia. Worcs One was seen in Evesham on August 24th. Staffs One was seen at Keele University on January 23rd-24th. Another at Broad Heath September 18th-24th. W Mid One at Sheepwash UP in March – a long term escapee.

Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula alexandri Forests of northern India to south-east Asia, Andamans and Greater Sundas. Warks The bird from 2005 was again recorded regularly in Maxstoke gardens up until at least October 22nd.

Lovebird sp. Agapornis sp. Africa. Staffs An unidentified Lovebird was seen at Chasewater on August 2nd.

Macaw sp. Staffs An unidentified blue and turquoise species provided a colourful display at Chasewater on October 17th-18th. It was probably the Military Macaw seen later at Blithfield.

Military Macaw Ara militaris South America Staffs One was present for an hour at Blithfield on October 29th.

213 Violet Turaco Musophaga violacea Central Africa Warks A single bird was found on September 9th in trees along the very rural Hambridge Road, in the Itchen valley below Knightcote. This very gaudy tropical relative of the Cuckoo almost caused a minor traffic accident when it flew out across the lane in front of a pair of passing cyclists!

Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo Eurasia. Warks A bird with jesses found dead hanging from a tree on Brailes Hill on April 25th was traced to an owner in Wiltshire. It is now a mounted specimen in the possession of ADW. Worcs One was discovered perched on a house roof in Kidderminster on the evening of February 20th and was still present the following morning. W Mid One was noted at Sedgley during both winter periods, whilst individuals were caught and ringed on the Birmingham side of the Lickey Hills on May 7th and near junction 2 of the on August 2nd.

White-collared Yuhina Yuhina diademata SW China to SE Myanmar W Mid One was found dead apparently having flown into a Walsall house window on or before May 21st.

Black-hooded Oriole Oriolus xanthornus India, Thailand, Malaysia Warks An adult visited a garden feeder at Dunchurch on August 11th.

Yellow-fronted Canary Serinus mozambicus Africa. A common cage-bird also known as the Green Singing Finch in avicultural circles. Worcs A male frequented a garden feeding station in Worcester for three weeks between mid-July and early August.

214 Ringing in 2006

A.E.Coleman Ringing Secretary

Ringing recoveries are obtained in three basic ways and the current ringing report provides examples of each. Birds may be: (a) Re-trapped and released after the ring number has been read (b) Found dead or injured (c) Ringed with individually engraved colour rings that can be read in the field. Recoveries provide information on the lifespan of birds, the causes of death, how far they move from the ringing site and the direction taken. In addition the biometric measures taken provide information on their condition and the size variation within the species.

Colour rings are made from Darvic material, it comes in different colours and can be engraved with a series of letters or numerals or a combination of both thereby making each ring unique. The rings enable a positive identification to be made without having to catch the bird. Large birds, such as gulls, geese and swans are often ringed in this way, and examples included here show Mute Swans moving north-west from the Midlands to Gwynedd in Wales and south to Sherbourne in Dorset, Black-headed Gulls from Kings - bury Water Park in Warwickshire being sighted in Northumberland and on the river Dee in Chester and a Lesser Black-backed Gull oscillating between Scandinavia and the UK.

When studying colonies of small birds such as House Sparrows and Tree Sparrows where the rings used may be too small for individual coding, it is possible through variation of plain colour rings and their combinations, to easily identify individuals of the colony to assess social interactions between birds.

Most birds, especially the smaller passerine species rarely enjoy a long life. Generally, the larger the bird the greater the potential life expectancy – although accidents do happen which greatly shorten a birds existence irrespective of size. These ringing notes show some remarkable longevity records including a 15 year old Mute Swan, an eleven year old Eurasian Sparrowhawk and a Robin and Blackbird both in their sixth year of life – all four birds were still alive on the recovery date recorded. Blue Tits are traditionally short lived birds, on average they only have about two breeding seasons, but there are always excep - tions like the Worcestershire Blue Tit recorded here, found dead over six years after ringing – and it was at least a year old when ringed.

Ringing also provides remarkable movement records. Recoveries for wintering Eurasian Wigeon ringed at Bredon’s Hardwick in Worcestershire never fail to impress especially when an adult male moves over four and a half thousand kilometres into Russia. Female Wigeon leave their breeding grounds after the males, their departure depending on when the chicks are able to fly, and after wintering here they return to their breeding grounds using a more southerly route than the males.

The three Siskins ringed in Staffordshire are interesting. Two show expected movements into Cumbria and further north to breeding grounds in Scotland but the third, a juvenile male, moved in the opposite direction – 151 kilometres south to Suffolk.

215 Another interesting movement is for a juvenile female Greenfinch ringed in Staffordshire in December 2005 and recovered dead the following May in Scotland. Was this a bird hatched in Scotland, over-wintered in the Midlands and returned to breed in the north, or was it a Midland bird?. Some recoveries pose difficult questions – but addressing them will hopefully increase our understanding of birds.

I am most grateful to the secretaries of the Arden, Mercian and Ringing Groups and also the Bache, Shearwood and McShane Ringing Group for sending in details of their ringing recoveries. Roger Clay, Dave Clifton, Phil Ireland and Andy Lawrence also made valuable contributions. Without making details of their recoveries available these Ringing Notes would not be possible.

Selected List of Recoveries involving the WMBC Area Entries are arranged by species and, within species, by recovery date. Ringing details are given on the first line and recovery details on the second. This report includes recoveries for 2006 and previously unpublished recoveries for earlier years. All foreign recoveries and movements of greater than 100 kilometres are included. Treatment of movements of less than 100 kilometres depends on the species involved.

Key

Age at ringing Sex Pull Pullus (Nestling) M Male Juv Juvenile (young able to fly) F Female 1Y Bird in its first year Manner of recovery 2Y Bird in its second year v Caught and released with ring Ad Adult (at least one year old) + Shot or killed Fg Full grown (Age uncertain) x Found dead or dying vv ring read in the field ? manner of recovery unknown

Species Ringer/ Ring No. Age/Sex Date Place Movement

Mute Swan U8235 1Y M 18.01 97 Daventry, Northants ARG x 24.01.06 Nafford, Worcs 68 kms

Z86434 1Y F 29.07.95 Alvecote Pools, Warks C&C x 02.02.06 Tamworth, Staffs 2 kms

W14267 1Y 26.08.03 Fladbury, Worcs WRG v v 01.05.06 Kislingbury, Northants 73 kms

Z77606 1Y F 18.08.92 Worcester, Worcs WRG v v 17.05.06 Sherborne Park, Dorset 139 kms

216 W11938 1Y F 28.03.05 Chasewater, Staffs C&C v v 21.05.06 Aber Ogwen, Bangor, Gwynedd 156 kms

U4393 1Y 28.11.93 Worcester, Worcs WRG x 21.07.06 Shuthonger, Nr Tewksbury. Glos 20 kms

W16704 1Y 15.08.05 Mythe Pool, Worcs WRG v v 25.09.06 Watermead Country Park, Leics 103 kms

W14152 1Y M 09.07.03 Bewdley, Worcs WRG v 12.09.06 Slimbridge, Glos 71 kms

U1842 1Y 20.11.91 Kemerton, Worcs WRG x 04.10.06 Ross on Wye, Hereford 41 kms

Greater Canada Goose 5214048 Ad 30.06.01 Stubbers Green. W.Mids C&C + 31.01.06 Lower Foxhall, Worcs 87 kms

5234818 Ad 21.12.03 Perry Barr, W.Mids C&C x 15.07.06 Dearn Valley, South Yorkshire 118 kms

Eurasian Wigeon FP39154 1Y M 16.02.03 Bredons Hardwick, Worcs WRG x 07.01.04 Porto Tolle, Ferrara and Rovigo, Italy 1294 kms

FP39381 Ad M 31.12.03 Bredon’s Hardwick, Worcs WRG x 17.05.05 Purovskiy District, Yamel-Nemets, USSR 4810 kms

FP39385 Ad F 31.12.03 Bredon’s Hardwick, Worcs WRG Shot 22.10,06 Agerso, Sjaelland, Denmark 949 kms

FP39088 1Y F 16.02.03 Bredon’s Hardwick, Worcs WRG x 31.10.06 Saratov, USSR 3310 kms

FP68354 Ad M 22.01.06 Bredon’s Hardwick, Worcs WRG + 18.11.06 Rockland St Mary, Norfolk 252 kms

Eurasian Sparrowhawk EB66258 Pull F 30.06.95 Kemerton, Worcs WRG v 07.01.06 Nr , Worcs 29 kms

Black-headed Gull EH22151 Pull 14.06.05 Kingsbury Water Park, Warks MRG v v 10.11.06 River Dee, Chester 106 kms

EL59482 Pull 14 06 05 Kingsbury Water Park, Warks MRG v v 26 04 06 Druridge Bay, Northumberland 301 kms

217 AA2865 Ad 16.03.01 Hellrup Havn, Gentofte, Denmark v v 25.03.01 Copenhagen, Denmark v v 12.04.02 Utterslev Mose, Copenhagen, Denmark v v 01.05.04 Utterslev Mose, Copenhagen, Denmark v v 16.02.05 Stubbers Green, W.Mids v v 07.10.06 Stubbers Green, W.Mids

Lesser Black-backed Gull 4233182 Pull 10.07.99 Farsund, Vest-Agder, Norway v v 02.03.02 Gijon, Uviedo, Spain v v 18.02.03 , Glos v v 17.01.04 Caine, Wilts v v 15.07.04 Farsund, Vest-Agder, Norway v v 27.01.05 Gloucester, Glos v v 06.06.06 Farsund, Vest-Agder, Norway v v 28.07.06 Farsund, Vest-Agder, Norway v v 10.09.06 Farsund, Vest-Agder, Norway v v 14.10.06 Cannock, Staffs

Sand Martin CH9486 Juv 26.07.03 Laguna de Sarinena, Sarinena, Huesca, Spain v 20.06.04 Cornets End, Warks 1186 kms

4789204 Juv 21.07.03 Pacy sur Eure, Eure, France v 19.06.05 Cornets End, Warks 436 kms

T525614 Ad 19.06.05 Broom, Beds v 11.06.06 Cornets End, Warks 101 kms

R211096 Juv 07.07.02 Cornets End, Warks PI v 22.07.06 Lochgreens, Nr Aberdeen, Scotland 535 kms

R713663 Juv 18.07.04 Cornets End, Warks PI v 10.07.05 Cottam Power Station, Notts 30.07.06 West Burton Power Station, Notts 121 kms

Robin P188083 Juv 12.11.99 Hams Hall, Warks DC v 22.11.05 Hams Hall, Warks 0 kms v 03.11.06 Hams Hall, Warks 0 kms

Blackbird RC69707 Juv M 31.12.99 Hams Hall, Warks BS&M v 31.01.06 Hams Hall, Warks 0 kms

XJ73345 Ad M 17.11.05 Dungeness Bird Observatory, Kent DBO v 24.12.06 Sandon, Staffs 299 kms

218 Fieldfare CF90268 Juv F 30.12.01 Suckley, Worcs WRG v 05.02.05 Althen des Paluds, France 1059 kms

Redwing RW18833 Ad 15.01.05 Longdon Marsh, Worcs WRG x 12.01.06 Poullan sur Mer, Finistere, France 465 kms

7X77960 Juv 25.10.01 Brecht, Antwerpen, Belgium v 20.11.05 Sandon, Staffs 489 kms

Cettiʼs Warbler R600573 Juv F 03.06.04 Upton Warren, Droitwich, Worcs WRG v 23.01.06 Icklesham, Sussex 247 kms

Sedge Warbler T541449 Juv 13.07.06 Grimley, Worcs WRG v 04.08.06 Icklesham, Sussex 251 kms

T541810 Juv 31.07.06 Grimley, Worcs WRG 04.08.06 Beachy Head, Sussex 241 kms

Reed Warbler P876916 Juv 30.08.03 Tichfield Haven, Farham, Hampshire BSD v 27.06.05 Hams Hall, Warks 192 kms v 24.06.06 Hams Hall, Warks 192 kms

R902514 Ad 22.08.04 Icklesham, Sussex RBRG v 31.07.06 Grimley, Worcs 251 kms

T079873 Juv 20.07.06 Grimley, Worcs WRG v 15.08.06 Icklesham, Sussex 251 kms

Blackcap R587401 Juv M 24.09.05 Tichfield Haven, Farham, Hampshire BSD v 30.04.06 Ols Storridge, Great Malvern, Worcs

V297552 Juv 06.08.06 Old Storridge, Great Malvern, Worcs WRG v 12.09.06 Icklesham, Sussex 252 kms

Garden Warbler AJK220 Juv 16.08.05 North Ronaldsay, Orkney, Scotland NRBO v 14.05.06 Lower Moor Sewage Works, Worcs 806 kms

T210257 Juv 16.08.05 Belper, Derbys SBRG v 14.05.06 Hill Fort, Worcs 126 kms

Pied Flycatcher R203073 Pull 08.06.05 Midsummer Hill, Hollybush, Worcs WRG v 29.05.06 Wyre Forest, Bewdley, Worcs 39 kms

219 Blue Tit N597140 Ad M 20.02.00 Poolbrook Water Works, Worcs WRG x 27.10.06 Malvern, Worcs 0 kms

Great Tit TC00563 Pull 20.05.04 Hams Hall, Warks MRG v 19.03.06 West Clowes Wood, Cantebury, Kent 229 kms

Chaffinch P188588 Juv F 17.09.00 Hams Hall, Warks MRG v 31.01.06 Hams Hall, Warks 0 kms

P212479 Juv F 19.01.03 Light Oaks, Staffs JAL x 26.08.06 Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth, Lancs 132 kms

Greenfinch TC89348 Juv F 26.12.05 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC x 11.05.06 Galashiels, Borders Region, Scotland 349 kms

Siskin H961680 Juv M 24.03.06 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC x 06.04.06 Brandon, Suffolk 161 kms

K582935 Juv M 24.03.06 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC v 06.04.06 Flimby, Maryport, Cumbria 259 kms

V013737 Juv M 19.03.06 Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffs AEC x 16.04.06 Dunblane, central Region, Sclotland 423 kms

Key to Contributors to the Ringing Report

AEC A.E. Coleman ARG Arden Ringing Group BSD B.S. Duffin BS&M Bache, Shearman and McShane C&C Coleman and Coleman DBO Dungeness Bird Observatory DJC D. Clifton JAL J.A.Lawrence MRG Mercian Ringing Group NRBO North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory PI P. Ireland RBRG Rye Bay Ringing Group SBRG Sorby Breck Ringing Group WRG Wychavon Ringing Group

220 Franklinʼs Gull at Blithfield; a first for Staffordshire

Roger Broadbent

At around 7.30 pm on 9th August 2006 I decided to relieve myself of grandparenting duties and drive over to Tad Bay, Blithfield Reservoir, primarily to look at the gull roost. Previous evenings had produced various Mediterranean Gulls as well as Little Egrets, a Grey Plover, Black-tailed Godwits and Whimbrels which had all been seen in the evenings. There was a good chance of seeing eclipse drake Garganeys too.

I arrived in front of the Stansley Wood hide at about 7.50 pm. Max Radford was already there and the gulls were arriving in good numbers. As I was setting up my tripod MR drew my attention to a group of Garganeys that were dabbling around the near shore. I decided to look at those first whilst he commenced the methodical process of looking at each and every gull.

I had hardly focussed on to a Garganey when MR exclaimed that he was on to either a Laughing or a Franklin’s Gull. He quickly came over to my telescope and kindly set it on to the gull which was standing on its own in the open on the mud. I immediately and completely agreed with his view that it was either a Laughing or Franklin’s Gull. The eyepiece was immediately turned up to 60 times magnification. Although the bird had its head tucked under its wing it was clear that it was a black-hooded gull with a dark grey mantle. The primary tips were black and some white mirrors were obvious. I also thought that it was too small for a Laughing Gull as we could easily compare its size with the incoming Black-headed Gulls which were beginning to partially obscure our bird.

As the twilight was rapidly approaching the news was put out straight away by phoning those keen birders who we knew could get over to see it before it got dark. The news quickly emerged on one of the pager services to the point that I received a call from Worcestershire informing me that there was a Laughing or Franklin’s Gull at Blithfield. My reply was “ I know I am watching it now and I think that it is a Franklin’s“ .

Shortly afterwards the bird momentarily raised its head revealing very obvious white “eye lids “ and a relatively small dark bill. At that point I swung heavily towards this being a Franklin’s Gull.

The head was raised a couple more times and I could make out that the bill was very dark red. On one occasion the very tip of the bill was seen suggesting to me that the extreme tip was indeed yellow. This feature was not picked up in the photographs taken the next morning.

Meanwhile, we were joined by other birders including G.J. Mant and E.S. Clare and I think about four others before all the gulls took up as one and headed out of the bay towards Beech Tree Point.

At that moment the Franklin’s Gull could easily be picked out. Its wings were paddle shaped and had three or four bright white mirrors on the black wing tips. The mantle was

221 obviously darker than the mantles of the other gulls and it certainly was no bigger than the Black-headed Gulls. It was indeed a Franklin’s Gull, a first for Staffordshire and the second for the Region; the first being at Draycote in 2002.

It was relocated more or less in the same place the next morning when I understand that another half dozen or so birders saw it. After about one and a half hours the bird flew away not to return.

222 County Lists

The following table shows all species in categories A to C of The British List that have been reliably recorded in the area covered by the current boundaries of the four counties of the Region since records were kept. The regional total as at December 31st 2006 was 342. The year shown is the latest in which the species has been observed in each county while nk refers to reliable, but undated, 19th century records. Subspecies or races are shown in italics and they, along with known escapes, are not included in the totals.

Details The Details column is used to indicate for which species a description or supporting details are required. As the status of each species is not necessarily the same across the four counties, a description or supporting details may be required for some counties but not for others. The level of detail required will, of course, vary with the species concerned; some requiring only a brief sentence while other, rarer species, more detailed notes. However, if the bird you are claiming is unfamiliar to you, or you are unsure of its identity, then don’t be afraid to send in a description – even if it is not requested.

The following abbreviations are used: BBRC A full description is required by British Birds Rarities Committee. A A description or supporting details required for ALL counties. St, Wa, Wo, WM A description or supporting details required for Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and West Midlands respectively.

Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Mute Swan Cygnus olor 2006 2006 2006 2006 Bewickʼs Swan Cygnus columbianus St 2006 2006 2006 2006 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2005 2006 2006 Bean Goose Anser fabalis A 2004 2006 2006 0 Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons A 2006 2005 2006 2006 Greylag Goose Anser anser 2006 2006 2006 2006 Greater Canada Goose Branta canadensis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Brent Goose Branta bernicla A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Wa, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna 2006 2006 2006 2006 Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata 2006 2006 2006 2006 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope 2006 2006 2006 2006 American Wigeon Anas americana A 2002 0 2006 0 Gadwall Anas strepera 2006 2006 2006 2006 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca 2006 2006 2006 2006 Green-winged Teal Anas carolinensis A 2004 2004 2002 0 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 2006 2006 2006 2006 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 2006 2006 2006 2006 Garganey Anas querquedula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Blue-winged Teal Anas discors BBRC 1989 1989 2001 0 Shoveler Anas clypeata 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina Wa, WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 2006 2006 2006 2006 Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris A 2006 2005 2005 2001 Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca A 2006 2006 2006 1998 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 2006 2006 2006 2006

223 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Greater Scaup Aythya marila 2006 2006 2006 2003 Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis BBRC 2005 2006 2006 0 Common Eider Somateria mollissima A 1993 2001 2002 1993 Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis A 2005 2006 2006 2005 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata A 1986 2000 0 0 Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca A 2005 1985 2004 1994 Bufflehead Bucephala albeola BBRC 2004 0 2004 2004 Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Smew Mergellus albellus Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Goosander Mergus merganser 2006 2006 2006 2006 Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus Wo, Wa, WM 0 0 2006 1868 Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix A 0 1915 2003 1897 Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa 2006 2006 2006 2006 Grey Partridge Perdix perdix 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix A 2006 2006 2006 2004 Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata A 2006 1997 2005 2001 Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica A 2002 1995 2000 1997 Great Northern Diver Gavia immer A 2006 2004 2006 2003 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena A 2006 2005 2006 1996 Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritus A 2006 2002 2006 2003 Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis A 2004 2000 1993 1996 Coryʼs Shearwater Calonectris diomedea A 0 0 1971 0 Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus A 2006 2006 2006 2004 European Storm-petrel Hydrobates pelagicus A 1983 2003 1990 1970 Leachʼs Storm-petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Northern Gannet Morus bassanus A 2004 2006 2006 2006 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 2006 2006 2006 2006 Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis A 2006 2004 2006 2005 Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris A 2006 2006 2006 2005 Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus BBRC 1981 1865 1901 <1836 Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax A 2001 1983 2000 2004 Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides BBRC 0 0 2004 0 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis BBRC 1994 1993 1987 0 Little Egret Egretta garzetta WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great White Egret Ardea alba A 2006 1999 2003 2002 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 2006 2006 2006 2006 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea A 1990 2000 2005 0 Black Stork Ciconia nigra BBRC 0 1956 1985 0 White Stork Ciconia ciconia A 2005 2005 2005 2005 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus BBRC 0 0 2006 0 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia A 2005 2001 2006 2002 Honey-buzzard Pernis apivorus A 2004 2004 2006 2004 Black Kite Milvus migrans A 0 1986 1991 2004 Red Kite Milvus milvus WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla A 1891 1945 1905 0 Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Wo, Wa, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A 2006 2006 2006 2005 Montaguʼs Harrier Circus pygargus A 2005 2006 2006 1951 Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo 2006 2006 2006 2006 Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus A 2005 1979 2001 1996 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos A 0 0 nk 0

224 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Osprey Pandion haliaetus Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus A 2003 2001 2002 0 Merlin Falco columbarius WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Hobby Falco subbuteo 2006 2006 2006 2006 Gyr Falcon Falco rusticolus BBRC 1852 0 <1844 0 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Water Rail Rallus aquaticus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Spotted Crake Porzana porzana A 2005 2002 2006 1998 Little Crake Porzana parva BBRC 1974 0 0 0 Corn Crake Crex crex A 2005 1988 1988 1965 Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Coot Fulica atra 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Crane Grus grus A 2003 2004 2006 2005 Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax BBRC 0 0 c1899 <1893 Great Bustard Otis tarda BBRC 0 c1825 0 0 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus BBRC 1987 2006 1995 0 Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta A 2005 2006 2006 1999 Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus A 2001 1996 2006 1991 Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola BBRC 1996 1994 0 0 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 2006 2006 2006 2006 Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus A 1993 1940 1995 0 Dotterel Charadrius morinellus A 2002 2006 2006 1978 American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica A 1991 0 0 0 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria 2006 2006 2006 2006 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 White-tailed Lapwing Vanellus leucurus BBRC 1975 0 0 0 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red Knot Calidris canutus WM 2005 2006 2006 2006 Sanderling Calidris alba WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Little Stint Calidris minuta WM 2006 2006 2006 2004 Temminckʼs Stint Calidris temminckii A 2006 2006 2006 2005 Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla BBRC 2002 1988 2002 0 White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis A 0 1996 1989 0 Bairdʼs Sandpiper Calidris bairdii BBRC 1996 0 2005 0 Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos A 2005 2006 2006 2006 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea WM 2006 2005 2006 2002 Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima A 1993 1988 2000 1985 Dunlin Calidris alpina 2006 2006 2006 2006 Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus BBRC 1985 0 2004 0 Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis A 1995 0 1980 0 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 2006 2006 2006 2006 Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great Snipe Gallinago media BBRC <1886 0 1954 1995 Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus BBRC 1983 2006 0 0 Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 2006 2006 2006 2006 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica WM 2006 2006 2006 2003 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata 2006 2006 2006 2006 Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda BBRC 1851 0 0 0 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus Wa, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis BBRC 0 0 1974 0 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 2006 2006 2006 2006 Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes BBRC 0 0 1995 0 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 2006 2006 2006 2006

225 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 2006 2006 2006 2006 Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius BBRC 1990 0 2005 2004 Turnstone Arenaria interpres WM 2006 2006 2006 2004 Wilsonʼs Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor BBRC 1996 1985 0 0 Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus A 2000 2006 2004 1893 Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius A 2005 2004 2005 2005 Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus A 1997 1999 2006 1985 Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus A 2006 1996 2005 2000 Long-tailed Skua Stercorarius longicaudus A 2003 1987 2004 1991 Great Skua Stercorarius skua A 2006 2000 2006 1994 Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Laughing Gull Larus atricilla BBRC 0 2005 0 1997 Franklinʼs Gull Larus pipixcan BBRC 2002 0 2006 0 Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis A 1998 2006 2006 1996 Common Gull Larus canus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Herring Gull Larus argentatus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Kumlienʼs Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni A 2001 2005 1999 0 Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla 2006 2006 2006 2006 Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Bonaparteʼs Gull Chroicocephalus philadelphia BBRC 1992 0 1996 0 Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Sabineʼs Gull Xema sabini A 1989 1997 2006 0 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica BBRC 2006 <1901 1989 1896 Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia BBRC 1993 1971 1999 1979 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii A 2002 1999 2006 0 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 2006 2006 2006 2006 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea 2006 2006 2006 2006 Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata BBRC 0 0 1852 0 Little Tern Sternula albifrons A 2006 2005 2006 2000 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida BBRC 2005 1994 2005 0 Black Tern Chlidonias niger 2006 2006 2006 2006 White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus A 2005 2000 2005 1977 Common Guillemot Uria aalge A nk 0 1920 1980 Razorbill Alca torda A nk 1953 0 1912 Little Auk Alle alle A 2003 1998 2001 1999 Puffin Fratercula arctica A 1984 1963 1983 1999 Pallasʼs Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes paradoxus BBRC 1888 1888 1908 1888 Feral Pigeon Columba livia 2006 2006 2006 2006 Stock Dove Columba oenas 2006 2006 2006 2006 Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto 2006 2006 2006 2006 Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur St 2006 2006 2006 2006 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri A 2006 2005 2006 2006 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Barn Owl Tyto alba 2006 2006 2006 2006 Little Owl Athene noctua 2006 2006 2006 2006 Tawny Owl Strix aluco 2006 2006 2006 2006 Long-eared Owl Asio otus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Tengmalmʼs Owl Aegolius funereus BBRC 0 1901 0 0 European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2005 2006 2005

226 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid White-throated Needle-tail Hirundapus caudacutus BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Common Swift Apus apus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Alpine Swift Apus melba A 2003 1997 1996 1988 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon BBRC 0 0 2005 0 European Bee-eater Merops apiaster A 1886 1970 0 1955 European Roller Coracias garrulus BBRC 0 0 1908 0 Hoopoe Upupa epops A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Wryneck Jynx torquilla A 2003 2006 2005 2006 Green Woodpecker Picus viridis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major 2006 2006 2006 2006 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor 2006 2006 2006 2006 Wood Lark Lullula arborea A 2004 2006 2006 2004 Sky Lark Alauda arvensis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Shore Lark Eremophila alpestris A 1994 2003 2002 2006 Sand Martin Riparia riparia 2006 2006 2006 2006 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica A 2004 2001 2006 0 House Martin Delichon urbicum 2006 2006 2006 2006 Richardʼs Pipit Anthus richardi A 2001 1967 2002 1994 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus A 1994 0 0 0 Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus petrosus WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Scandinavian Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus littoralis A 2004 1997 2005 2006 Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta A 2006 2005 2006 2005 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava flavissima 2006 2006 2006 2006 Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Spanish Wagtail Motacilla flava iberiae A 0 1982 1993 0 Grey-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava thunbergi A 0 0 0 1996 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola BBRC 1997 0 0 0 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 2006 2006 2006 2006 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba yarrellii 2006 2006 2006 2006 White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba A (autumn) 2006 2006 2006 2006 Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus Wa, Wo, WM 2006 2005 2005 2006 Dipper Cinclus cinclus gularis Wa, WM 1991 2006 2006 2006 Black-bellied Dipper Cinclus cinclus cinclus A 1996 0 0 0 Wren Troglodytes troglodytes 2006 2006 2006 2006 Dunnock Prunella modularis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris BBRC nk 0 0 0 Robin Erithacus rubecula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos St, WM 2006 2006 1988 1979 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica A 1995 1981 1994 1985 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2006 2006 2006 2006 Stonechat Saxicola torquata 2006 2006 2006 2006 Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 2006 2006 2006 2006 Greenland Wheatear Oenanthe o. leucorrhoa A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti BBRC 0 0 1996 0 Whiteʼs Thrush Zoothera dauma BBRC 1895 0 0 0 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus Wa 2006 2006 2006 2006 Blackbird Turdus merula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Dusky Thrush Turdus naumanni BBRC 0 1979 0 0 Dark-throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis BBRC 0 1996 1978 0 Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 2006 2006 2006 2006 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 2006 2006 2006 2006 Redwing Turdus iliacus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus 2006 2006 2006 2006

227 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Cettiʼs Warbler Cettia cetti A 2006 2006 2006 2001 Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia 2006 2006 2006 2006 River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis BBRC 0 0 1996 0 Saviʼs Warbler Locustella luscinioides A 2004 1999 1977 0 Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola A 2005 1983 0 0 Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris A 2001 2005 1996 1982 Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus BBRC 2005 0 0 0 Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina A 1997 1942 1993 0 Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta A 2000 0 1996 0 Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 2006 2006 2006 2006 Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 2006 2006 2006 2006 Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria A 1979 0 0 0 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata A 1914 2005 2006 2006 Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis A 0 0 1993 0 Pallasʼs Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus proregulus A 2001 1987 1970 0 Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus A 1996 2003 2006 1998 Humeʼs Warbler Phylloscopus humei BBRC 0 0 1994 0 Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus BBRC 0 0 0 1996 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wa 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 2006 2006 2006 2006 Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. tristis A 2006 2006 2005 1994 Scandinavian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus c. abietinus A 2005 2006 2005 1991 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Goldcrest Regulus regulus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 2006 2006 2006 2006 Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva A 2004 0 0 0 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Wa 2005 2006 2006 2006 Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus A 2006 2004 2004 1993 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Marsh Tit Poecile palustris WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Willow Tit Poecile montana 2006 2006 2006 2006 Coal Tit Periparus ater 2006 2006 2006 2006 Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Great Tit Parus major 2006 2006 2006 2006 Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea 2006 2006 2006 2006 Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris 2006 2006 2006 2006 Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus A 2005 2000 1997 1990 Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio A 2005 2000 2006 2003 Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor BBRC 0 1987 0 0 Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor A 2006 2005 2006 1998 Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator A 0 1893 0 1999 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius 2006 2006 2006 2006 Magpie Pica pica 2006 2006 2006 2006 Nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes BBRC 0 0 1991 0 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax A 0 1826 0 0 Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Rook Corvus frugilegus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Carrion Crow Corvus corone 2006 2006 2006 2006 Hooded Crow Corvus cornix A 1987 1983 1994 1984 Common Raven Corvus corax 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris 2006 2006 2006 2006 Rose-coloured Starling Sturnus roseus A 2001 2005 2002 2004 House Sparrow Passer domesticus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Tree Sparrow Passer montanus 2006 2006 2006 2006

228 Details Warks Worcs Staffs W Mid Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs 2006 2006 2006 2006 Brambling Fringilla montifringilla 2006 2006 2006 2006 European Serin Serinus serinus A 2002 1981 2001 0 Greenfinch Carduelis chloris 2006 2006 2006 2006 Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis 2006 2006 2006 2006 Siskin Carduelis spinus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Linnet Carduelis cannabina 2006 2006 2006 2006 Twite Carduelis flavirostris A 2006 2002 2006 2003 Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret 2006 2006 2006 2006 Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea A 2006 2006 2006 2006 Arctic Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni A 0 2002 1996 0 Two-barred Crossbill Loxia leucoptera BBRC 0 1838 1980 0 Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Wa, WM 2006 2006 2006 2005 Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus A 2003 0 0 0 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 2006 2006 2006 2006 Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes St, Wa, WM 2006 2006 2006 2006 Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicus A 1981 0 2005 2005 Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis A 2004 2006 2006 1997 Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos BBRC 0 2005 0 0 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 2006 2006 2006 2006 Cirl Bunting Emberiza cirlus A 1959 1983 1951 1950 Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica A 0 1987 0 0 Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla A 1902 2005 2005 2003 Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus 2006 2006 2006 2006 Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala BBRC 2004 0 0 0 Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra 2006 2006 2006 2006 Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula BBRC 0 0 0 1968

Grand Total Region 342 County 307 297 311 270 Total in 2006 Region 239 County 204 201 226 174

The county totals exclude all subspecies and races and those species in Appendices 1 and 2 of the Regional List.

Note: The records of Red and Black Grouse on the West Midlands list refer to Sutton Park which, at the time of the records, was part of Warwickshire.

229 Gazetteer

The following alphabetical list for each county gives the grid references (if known) of all localities mentioned in the Report.

Warwickshire Abberley Hill SO7566 Broom SP0953 Dosthill Lake SP2098 Abbey Fields SP2872 Brownsover SP5176 Draycote Water SP4669 Abbots Salford Pool SP0749 Bubbenhall SP3672 Dunchurch SP4871 Admington SP2046 Bubbenhall Tip SP3671 Dunnington SP0653 Alcester SP0857 Budbrooke SP2565 Alcester Heath SP0659 Bulkington SP3986 Earlswood Lakes SP1174 Alcester STW SP0956 Bunkers Hill Wood SP4869 Eathorpe SP3969 Alderminster SP2348 Burmington SP2637 Edge Hill SP3747 Alscot Park SP2050 Burton Dassett SP3951 Edge Hill Wood Alvecote Pools SK2504 Butlers Marston SP3150 (Kingsbury) SP2398 Alveston SP2356 Edstone SP1761 Arbury Park SP3389 Calcutt SP4664 Ennister Wood SP0754 Arley SP2890 Calcutt Spinney SP4763 Ensors Pool SP3490 Armscote SP2444 Caldecote SP3494 Ettington SP2649 Arrow SP0856 Camp Hill SP3393 Ettington Grove SP2548 Ashorne SP3057 Chadshunt SP3452 Ettington Park SP2447 Ashow SP3170 Chapel Ascote SP4157 Exhall Grange SP3384 Astley SP3189 Charlecote GP SP2657 Aston Cantlow SP1359 Charlecote Park SP2656 Farnborough SP4349 SP3097 Chelmscote SP3142 Farnborough Park SP4249 Attleborough Fields SP3890 Cherington SP2936 Fenny Compton SP4152 Avon Dassett SP4149 Chessetts Wood SP1973 Fenny Compton Hills SP4051 Chesterton Pools SP3558 Fenny Compton – Baddesley Clinton SP2071 Chesterton Wood SP3457 Oxford Canal SP4352 Baginton Airport SP3574 Church Pool Covert SP2092 Fillongley SP2887 Barcheston SP2639 Claverdon SP1964 Finham STW SP3373 Barford SP2760 Clifford Chambers SP1952 Fisherʼs Mill GP SP2099 Baxterley SP2797 Clopton SP2056 Flecknoe SP5163 Beaudesert SP1566 Clowes Wood SP0973 Forest of Arden Hotel SP2285 Bedworth SP3686 Cock Bevington SP0552 Forshaw Heath SP0873 Bedworth Nook SP3486 Coldcomfort Wood SP0758 Fulready SP2846 Bedworth Slough SP3487 Coleshill SP2089 Bentley SP2795 Coleshill GP SP2090 Gaydon SP3654 Bentley Woods SP2895 Coleshill STW SP1991 Grandborough SP4966 Bermuda SP3589 Combrook SP3051 Great Alne SP1159 Bidford-on-Avon SP0951 Compton Scorpion SP2140 Grendon SP2799 Billesley SP1456 Compton Verney SP3152 Greyʼs Mallory SP3061 Binley Woods SP3977 Coombe Abbey SP4079 Griff SP3588 Birchley Wood SP4078 Coombe Slade Pool Guyʼs Cliffe SP2966 Birchmoor SK2501 (Brailes) SP3337 Bishopʼs Bowl Lakes SP3858 Copston Magna SP4588 Halford SP2645 Bishopʼs Gorse SP3354 Corley SP2985 Hampton Lucy SP2557 Bishopʼs Hill SP3958 Coton Pools SP2194 Hampton Wood SP2559 Bishopʼs Itchington SP3857 Coughton Court SP0860 Hams Hall SP2091 Bishopʼs Tachbrook SP3161 Crackley Wood SP2874 Harborough Magna SP4879 Bishopton SP1856 Crimscote SP2347 Harbury SP3759 Black Hill SP2359 Crimscote Downs SP2246 Hartshill SP3293 Blythe Mill SP2190 Cryfield SP2975 Hartshill Hayes SP3294 Bodymoor Heath SP2095 Cubbington SP3468 Hartshill Quarry SP3394 Brailes SP3139 Curdworth SP1793 Hartshill STW SP3395 Brailes Hill SP2939 Haseley SP2368 Bramcote Hall SK2704 Darlingscott SP2342 Haselor SP1257 Brandon Marsh SP3875 Ditchford Frary SP2337 Hatton SP2367 Bretford SP4277 DMC Kineton SP3651 Hatton Rock SP2357 Brinklow SP4379 Dordon SK2600 Haunch Lane Flood SP2094

230 Hawkesbury SP3685 Morton Bagot SP1064 Shuttington SK2505 Henley-in-Arden SP1465 Myton Fields SP3065 Snitterfield SP2159 High Cross Quarry SP4688 Snitterfield Bushes SP1960 Hillmorton SP5373 Napton Hill SP4561 Somers, The SP2282 Hoar Park Wood SP2693 Napton Res SP4759 Southam SP4161 Hodnell Pool SP4256 Nether Whitacre SP2392 Spernall SP0862 Honiley SP2472 Newbold Comyn SP3465 Spernall Park SP1062 Honington SP2642 Newbold-on-Stour SP2446 Spernall STW SP0862 Hounds Hill SP2550 Newbold Quarry SP2957 Stirch SP5055 Newfield Pool SP4554 Stockingford SP3391 Idlicote SP2844 Northend SP3952 Stockton SP4365 Idlicote Hills SP2843 Norton Lindsey SP2263 Stoneleigh SP3372 Ilmington SP2143 Nuneaton SP3691 Stoneleigh Park SP3171 Ilmington Downs SP1942 Nunley Test Track SP2373 Stoneton Moat SP4654 Nunley Wood SP2273 Stratford-upon-Avon SP2055 Jubilee Pools SP3873 Stretton-on-Fosse SP2238 Oakley Wood SP3059 Studley SP0763 Kenilworth SP2971 Offchurch SP3565 Studley Castle SP0864 Keresley Newlands SP3284 Offchurch Bury SP3466 Sweet Knowle SP2048 Kineton SP3351 Oldberrow SP1166 Kingsbury SP2196 Oldbury SP3194 Talton SP2347 Kingsbury Colliery SP2398 Oversley Hill SP0955 Temple Grafton SP1254 Kingsbury Water Park SP2097 Oversley Wood SP1056 Temple Herdewyke SP3752 Kingsbury Wood SP2397 Oxhill SP3145 Temple Pool SP3744 Kinwalsey SP2585 Tiddington SP2255 Kites Hardwick SP4668 Packington Park SP2283 Tidmington SP2638 Knavenhill Wood SP2449 Packwood SP1772 Toft Farm Lakes SP4868 Knightcote SP4055 Pagetʼs Lane Quarry SP3771 Tredington SP2543 Knowle End SP3848 Pillerton Hersey SP3048 Tysoe SP3444 Pillerton Priors SP2947 Ladbroke SP4158 Polesworth SK2602 Ufton Fields SP3861 Ladywalk SP2191 Poolfields SP3253 Ufton Tip SP3961 Lapworth SP1671 Preston Bagot SP1765 Umberslade SP1371 Lapworth Park SP1669 Preston-on-Stour SP2049 Upper Spernall SP1162 Lawford Heath Tip/GP SP4473 Princethorpe SP4070 Upton Park SP3645 Lea Marston Pools SP2093 Priors Hardwick SP4756 Leamington Hastings SP4467 Priors Marston SP4957 Walton Hall SP2852 Leamington Spa SP3165 Warmington SP4147 Leek Wootton SP2868 Radford Semele SP3464 Warton SK2803 Lighthorne SP3355 Radway SP3748 Warwick SP2864 Lighthorne Pools SP3356 Ragley Park SP0755 Warwick Castle Park SP2863 Lighthorne Quarry SP3456 Ratley SP3847 Warwick Race Course SP2764 Lillington SP3367 Red Hill SP1356 Wasperton SP2658 Little Dassett SP3852 Rugby SP5175 Water Orton SP1791 Little Packington SP2184 Rushford SP0551 Watergall SP4255 Long Compton SP2832 Ryton-on-Dunsmore SP3874 Weddington SP3693 Long Itchington SP4165 Ryton Pools CP SP3772 Weethley SP0555 Long Lawford SP4776 Ryton Wood SP3872 Welcombe Hills SP2056 Long Marston SP1548 Welford-on-Avon SP1452 Longbridge SP2662 St. Dennis SP2941 Wellesbourne SP2755 Longbridge STW SP2763 St Nicholas Park (Wark) SP2964 Weston-on-Avon SP1650 Lower Radbourn SP4457 Salford Priors SP0751 Whatcote SP3044 Lower Shuckburgh SP4862 Salford Priors GP SP0752 Whichford SP3134 Lowsonford SP1867 Sawbridge SP5065 Whichford Wood SP3034 Seeswood Pool SP3290 Whitacre Heath SP2192 Mancetter SP3296 Shawbury SP2588 Whitacre Heath NR SP2092 Marlcliff SP0950 Sherbourne SP2661 Whitestone SP3889 Maxstoke SP2386 Shipston-on-Stour SP2540 Whitnash SP3263 Meon Hill SP1745 Shipston STW SP2641 Whittleford Park SP3291 Middleton SP1798 Shrewley SP2167 Willicote SP1850 Middleton Hall SP1998 Shuckburgh Hills Willington SP2639 Milcote SP1752 and Park SP4961 Wilmcote SP1657 Moreton Morrell SP3155 Shustoke Res SP2291 Wimpstone SP2149

231 Winderton SP3240 Wolston SP4175 Wormleighton Hill SP4355 Winderton Warren SP3440 Wolverton SP2062 Wormleighton Reservoir SP4451 Windmill Hill NR SP3493 Wood End SP2498 Wroxall SP2271 Wishaw SP1794 Wootton Wawen SP1563 Wixford SP0854 Wormleighton SP4454 Yarningale Common SP1865 Wolfhamcote SP5265 Worcestershire Abberley Hill SO7566 Broadwas SO7656 Drakes Broughton SO9248 Abberley SO7567 Broadway SP0937 Drayton SO9076 Abberton SO9953 Broadway Droitwich SO8962 Alfrick SO7453 disused railway SP0737 Alfrick Pound SO7452 Broadway GPs SP0837 Eckington SO9241 Alvechurch SP0272 Bromsgrove SO9570 Eckington Meadows SO9242 Ankerdine Hill SO7356 Brotheridge Green Pool SO8241 Elmley Castle SO9841 Areley Wood SO7871 Burlish Top SO8072 Evesham SP0343 Arrow Valley Golf Bury End Flash SO8639 Eymore Wood SO7779 Course SP0569 Burys Hill SO8981 Arrow Valley Lake SP0567 Bushley SO8734 Feckenham SP0061 Arrow Valley North SP0569 Feckenham Wylde Moor SP0160 Ashmoor Common SO8446 Callow Hill SO7473 Fernhill Heath SO8659 Ashton-under-Hill SO9938 Castlemorton Common SO7839 Fish Hill SP1137 Ashwood Bank Caunsall SO8581 Fladbury SO9946 Astley Cross SO8069 Chaddesley Corbett SO8873 Flash Pools SO9366 Aston Somerville SP0438 Chaddesley Wood SO9173 Flintʼs Dingle SO6363 Axborough SO8579 Charlton SP0145 Four Stones SO9380 Aytonʼs Heath SO6963 Chase End Hill SO7635 Frog End SO6463 Aztec Water Sports Chase End Wood SO9073 Lake SO9847 Chat Valley SO7746 Golden Valley SO9647 Cheaton Brook SO5762 Grafton Lane SO9469 Banalls Rough SO6463 Church Lench Pool SP0250 Grafton Manor SO9369 Barbourne SO8457 Churchill SO8879 Grafton Reservoir SO9936 Beckford SO9735 Cleeve Prior SP0849 Grafton Wood SO9756 Beckford Lakes SO9836 Clent Hills SO9379 Great Malvern SO7846 Beoleylade SP0568 Clevelode SO8346 Green Street SO8649 Berkeley SO8857 Clifton Pits SO8445 Grimley SO8360 Berringtonʼs Quarry SO7641 Clifton-on-Teme SO7161 Grimley Church SO8360 Berrow Down SO7638 Cobblers Coppice SO9269 Grimley Heronry Wood SO8461 Bevere Lock SO8359 Cobblers Corner SO7756 Grimley New Workings SO8359 Bewdley SO7875 Cofton Richards Farm SP0175 Grimley Old Workings SO8361 Bickley SO6371 Comhampton SO8366 Grimley Windsurfing Pit SO8261 Birchen Coppice SO6463 Conderton SO9637 Gullet, The SO7638 Birchwood SO8081 Conderton Hill SO9737 Gwen Finch Wetland SO9341 Birts Street SO7836 Coombegreen Common SO7736 Birtsmorton Pools SO7935 Cowsden SO9453 Habberley Valley SO8077 Bishampton SO9951 Crabbe Tree Farm SO9047 Hallow SO8258 Bishampton Bank SP0049 Crabbs Cross SP0464 Hampton SP0243 Bishampton Vale Pool SP0050 Croome Farm SO8945 Hanbury Hall SO9463 Bittell Reservoir SP0174 Croome Landscape Hangmanʼs Hill SO7639 Blackstone SO7974 Park SO8844 Hanley Swan SO8142 Blakedown SO8878 Croome Perry Wood SO9046 Happy Valley SO7645 Bockleton SO5862 Croome River SO8844 Hartlebury SO8470 Bodenham Arboretum SO8081 Cropthorne SO9844 Hartlebury Common SO8270 Bransford Bridge SO8053 Harvington Braziers Coppice SO6464 Dagnell End SP0568 Hawford SO8460 Bredon Hill SO9139 Defford SO9143 Hewell Grange SP0169 Bredonʼs Hardwick SO9135 Defford Airfield SO9044 Higher Moor Bredonʼs Norton SO9339 Defford Yacht Club SO9142 Highwood SO6567 Brickhouse Lane SO9468 Devils Spittleful SO8074 Hill Croome SO8840 Bricklehampton SO9842 Dingle, The SO7645 Hill Furze SP0048 Brinton Carpet Factory SO8275 Dodford SO9373 Hillpool SO8976 British Camp SO7640 Dowles Brook SO7776 Himbleton SO9458 British Camp Reservoir SO7639 Downend SO8233 Hindlip SO8758

232 Flintʼs Dingle SO6363 Nafford SO9441 Sheriffs Lench SP0249 Hollybed Common SO7737 Nafford Lock SO8441 Shorthorn SO9850 Hollybush SO7636 Nash End SO7781 Shoulton SO8158 Hollybush Quarry SO7636 Naunton Beauchamp SO9652 Shrawley Wood SO8066 Hollywood SP0877 New Farm SO9046 Sinton Green SO8160 Holt SO8262 Nimmings SO9380 Slade Avenue SO8755 Holt Fishing Pools SO8262 Nineveh SO6264 Sling Pool Plantation SO8262 Holt Heath SO8163 North Hill SO7646 Sneads Green SO8567 Holt Prairies SO8262 North Valley SO7646 Southcrest Wood SP0836 Huntsbridge SO7783 Spetchley Lake SO8953 Huntsfield SO7779 Oakenshaw SP0464 Spetchley Park SO8953 Hurcott Pool SO8577 Oaklands Farm SO9745 Spring Lane Ind. Estate SO7847 Oakley Marsh SO8960 St. Annʼs Well SO7745 Ipsley Alders SP0767 Oakley Pool SO8960 Stoke Bliss SO6562 Offerton Lane NR SO8857 Stoke Prior SO9467 Kemerton Park SO9436 Old Road South SO8448 Stonyford SO6464 Kempsey SO8549 Old Storridge SO7451 Stonyford Pool SO6464 Kempsey Common SO8748 Ombersley Golf Course SO8463 Stoulton SO9049 Kempsey Lower Ham SO8449 Stourport-on-Severn SO8171 Kempsey Sewage Park Brook SO7576 Strensham Lagoons SO9139 Works SO8448 Pendock SO7832 Strensham Services SO9039 Kidderminster SO8376 Penny Hill SO7561 Sugarloaf Hill SO7645 Kings Norton Golf Club SP0574 Pensax Wood SO7268 Swinesherd Way SO8753 Kinsham Lake SO9836 Pershore SO9445 Swinyard Hill SO7638 Knapp, The SO7451 Phepson Farm SO9459 Knighton SO6370 Pinnacle Hill SO7642 Table Hill SO7846 Knighton Common SO6270 Pipers Hill Wood SO9565 Tallow Hill SO8555 Knightwick SO7355 Pirton Pool SO8747 Tank Quarry SO7646 Kyre SO6263 Pitcher Oak Wood SP0267 Tanwood SO9074 Kyre Brook SO6264 Pixham Meadows SO8448 Tenbury Wells SO5968 Kyre Pool SO6364 Podmore SO8478 Three Counties Poolbrook Common SO7944 Showground SO7842 Ladywood STW SO8661 Porters Mill SO8660 Throckmorton Airfield SO9649 Langdale Wood SO7943 Pound Green Common SO7578 Throckmorton Lagoons SO9748 Lea End SP0475 Powick SO8351 Throckmorton Tip SO9748 Lickey Hills SO9975 Powick Ham SO8352 Tiddesley Wood SO9245 Lickmoor Wetland SO8845 Tilesford SO9650 Lineholt SO8266 Raggedstone Hill SO7586 Timberhonger SO9170 Link Top SO7747 Redditch SP0467 Tinkers Coppice SO8259 Lion Wood SP0871 Retreat Farm Pool SO8359 Trench Wood SO9258 Little Comberton SO9643 Ribbesford SO7873 Trimpley Reservoir SO7778 Lodge Hill Farm SO7576 Ridge Coppice SO6464 Tythe Barn Farm SP0448 Longdon Marsh SO8235 Rifle Range SO8074 Lower Bittell Reservoir SP0174 Ripple SO8738 Upper Arley SO7680 Lower Moor SO9847 Ripple Marsh SO8637 Upper Bittell Reservoir SP0275 Lower Moor STW SO9746 Rock Coppice SO7673 Upper Strensham Pool SO8939 Lower Smite Farm SO8858 Rous Lench SP0153 Upton-upon-Severn SO8540 Lulsley SO7455 Rowney Green SP0471 Upton Warren SO9367 Lydiate Ash SP9775 Rushwick SO8253 Upton-upon-Severn Ryall Pits SO8639 STW SO8440 Malvern Common SO7744 Ryden Farm SP0245 Upton-upon-Severn Malvern Hills SO7640 S. Ham SO8539 Malvern Hills Hotel SO7742 Sally Beds SP1135 Malvern Link SO7847 Salwarpe Canal SO8762 Wadborough SO9047 Marlbrook SO6670 Salwarpe Church SO8761 Walton Hill SO9479 Marsh Common SO8942 Sarn Hill Wood SO8633 Waresley SO8469 Merrilands Farm SO9047 Saxonʼs Lode SO8638 Washford East SP0765 Midsummer Hill SO7637 Saxonʼs Lode Farm SO8638 Wassell Grove SO9382 Mill Shrub Pool SP0174 Sedge Green SO8034 Wassell Grove Monk Wood SO8060 Severn Stoke SO8544 Business Park SO9382 Monkwood Green SO8060 Shatterford Wood SO7980 Wassell Wood SO7977 Moors Pool SO9367 Shellford SO9559 Weatheroak Hill SP0574 Mount Pleasant SP0439 Shenstone SO8673 Webheath SP0166

233 West Malvern SO6746 Wick SO9645 Woodrow SO8875 West of England Wilden Marsh SO8273 Worcester SO8454 Quarry SO7644 Wildmoor Tip SO9576 Worcestershire Beacon SO7645 Westmancote SO9337 Winyates East SP0767 Wyche Cutting SO7743 Westwood Park SO8763 Winyates Green SO0867 Wyre Forest SO7475 Westwood Pool SO8763 Wisemanʼs Scrape SO8865 Wyre Piddle SO9647 Whitehouse Farm SO8679 Wood Norton SP0147 Wyre Piddle Bus. Park SO9547 Whiteleaved Oak SO7635 Woodbury Hill SO7464 Wythall SP0775 Wichenford SO7860 Woodbury Quarry SO7464 Staffordshire Abrahamʼs Valley SK0020 Brocton Coppice SJ9819 Dilhorne Dale SJ9843 Acton Trussell SJ9318 Brocton Field SJ9817 Dimmingsdale SK0543 Alrewas SK1814 Brookleys Lake SK0943 Doley Common SJ8121 Alrewas Junction Pit SK1815 Brown Edge SJ9054 Dosthill SP2099 Anslow SK2125 Brown Lees SJ8755 Dove Bridge SK1034 Anslow SK2125 Brund SK1061 Dovedale SK1452 Apedale CP SJ8148 Brund Mill SK0961 Doxey Marshes SJ9024 Aqualate SJ7720 Bull Pen Draycott Quarry SK0041 Aqualate Flight Pools SJ7720 Bunster Hill SK1451 Draycott-in-the-Clay SK1528 Ashwood SO8688 Burntwood SK0608 Drayton Bassett SP1999 Aston-by-Stone SJ9131 Burston SJ9330 Drayton Bassett Pits SP2099 Astonfields Balancing Burton-on-Trent SK2523 Drystone Edge SK0268 Lakes SJ9224 Bury Bank SJ8835 Dunstall SK1820 Bushton SK2026 Dunwood SJ9453 Back Forest SJ9865 Butterton SJ8242 Dunwood Bank SJ9453 Baddeley Edge SJ9150 Butterton Moor SK0556 Baddeley Green SJ9051 Byrkley Park SK1623 East Bishton SK0320 Baggeridge CP SO8992 Eccleshall SJ8329 Baldstones SK0164 Cadet Huts SJ9917 Elford SK1910 Baldwinʼs Gate SJ7940 Calton SK1050 Elford North Pit SK1810 Barleighford SJ9463 Caltonmoor SK1148 Ellastone SK1143 Barton GP SK2017 Calwich Abbey SK1243 Ellenhall SJ8526 Barton Marina SK2018 Cannock Chase SJ9816 Enson SJ9328 Baswich SJ9422 Cannock Tip SJ9909 Enville SO8388 Batchacre Hall SJ7525 Castletown Pool SJ9123 Essington Quarry SJ9403 Central Forest Park SJ8848 Bateswood SJ7948 Fauld SK1828 Chapel Chorlton SJ8137 Beaconside SJ9226 Fazeley SK2002 Chase Corner SJ9817 Bearda SJ9664 Fenton Cemetery SJ8945 Chasewater Reservoir SK0307 Beaudesert SK0313 Festival Park SJ8648 Checkhill SO8587 Bednall SJ9517 Fisherwick SK1709 Church Eaton SJ8417 Beech SJ8438 Five Clouds SK0062 Churnet Valley SK0942 Bellamoor Lane SK0320 Flash SK0267 Clay Mills SK2626 Belvide Reservoir SJ8610 Foker Grange SJ9657 Coldmeece SJ8532 Berry Hill SJ9045 Ford SK0654 Consall CP SJ9948 Biddulph SJ8756 Ford Grange SK0653 Consall Valley SJ9948 Biddulph Grange CP SJ8959 Forton SJ7521 Coombes Valley SK0052 Biddulph Moor SJ9058 Fradley SK1513 Copmere SJ8029 Bishopʼs Wood SJ7433 Frith Bottom SJ9961 Black Bank SJ8147 Cotes Heath SJ8335 Black Brook SK0064 Cowhay NR SJ9656 Gailey SJ9310 Blake Brook SK0761 Crakemarsh SK0936 German Cemetery SJ9815 Blithfield Reservoir SK0523 Crossplains SK1624 Gib Torr SK0264 Blythe Bridge SJ9540 Croxall SK1814 Godstone SK0134 Boarsgrove SK0462 Croxden SK0341 Goldsitch Moss SK0164 Brackenhurst Covert SK1423 Croxdon SJ7832 Goosemoor Green SK0611 Brancote STW SJ9522 Crumpwood SK0842 Gradbach Hill SJ9965 Branston GP SK2020 Cuckoo Bank SK0310 Greenway Bank CP SJ8955 Branston Water Park SK2120 Grindon Moor SK0655 Bratch Locks SO8688 Danebridge SJ9665 Grindonmoor Gate SK0754 Brindley Ford SJ8854 Dead Waters SK1040 Gun Hill SJ9662 Britannia Stadium SJ8843 Denstone SK1040 Broad Heath SJ8525 Denstone Hall SK1040 Hamps Valley SK1053

234 Hanchurch Woods SJ8340 Morridge SK0257 Stableford SJ8138 Handley Banks SJ9544 Morridge Top SK0365 Stafford SJ9223 Handsacre Flash SK0916 Musden Low SK1150 Stafford Crematorium SJ9523 Hatton Bogs SJ8237 Stafford M6 services SJ8831 Hawksmoor SK0344 National Memorial Stanley Pool SJ9351 Hayes SK0860 Arboretum SK1814 Stanton Dale SK1048 Hazelstrine SJ9420 Needwood Forest SK1624 Stepping Stones SJ9820 Heaton SJ9561 Netherset Hey SJ7843 Stockley Vale SK2025 Hen Cloud SK0061 Newcastle-under-Lyme SJ8444 Stoke-on-Trent SJ8745 High Offley SJ7826 Norbury Junction SJ7922 Stourton SO8685 Higher Lower Norbury Manor SJ7923 Stowe Pool SK1210 Perton Lake SO8699 Stramshall SK0735 Highgate Common SO8490 Oakamoor SK0544 Strawberry Hill SK0019 Hill Hook LNR SK1000 Okeover Weir SK1648 Swallow Moss SK0660 Himley Plantation SO8892 Oldacre Valley SJ9718 Swineholes Wood SK0450 Hints GPs SK1604 Onecote SK0454 Swynnerton SJ8436 Hixon Airfield SJ9926 Orchard Common SK0269 Holden Lane Pools SJ8950 Oulton Heath SJ9035 Tad Bay SK0523 Hollybush Lake SK1326 Oulton Heath SJ9035 Tamworth SK2004 Hulme SJ9346 Ouseley Cross SK1244 Tatenhill Airfield SK1524 Oxbatch SK0461 The Bent SK0762 Ilam SK1350 Oxensitch SK0268 Thorswood SK1147 Ingestre SJ9824 Three Shires Head SK0068 Ipstones Edge SK0350 Packhorse Bridge SK0567 Throwley Hall SK0952 Packington Moor SK1505 Timbersbrook SJ8962 Jacobs Ladder SK1452 Park Bank SK0842 Tittesworth Reservoir SJ9959 JCB North Lake SK1039 Park Hall CP SJ9244 Tixall SJ9722 Pasturefields SJ9825 Tixall Bridge SJ9721 Katyn Memorial SJ9816 Penkridge SJ9214 Toad Hole Bridge SK1443 Keele University SJ8145 Perton SO8598 Tollgate Industrial Kemsey Manor SJ7624 Pethillshead Farm SK0652 Estate SJ9225 Kettlebrook Lakes SK2003 Pipe Green SK1009 Trent Vale SJ8644 Kingʼs Bromley SK1116 Pretty Pigs Pool SK2405 Trentham Gardens SJ8640 Kingswood SJ9908 Trentham Golf Course SJ8740 Kinver Edge SO8382 Radford Bank SJ9320 Turn Edge SK0167 Knotbury SK0168 Radford Meadows SJ9321 Tutbury SK2128 Knypersley Reservoir SJ8955 Ranton SJ8524 Readyleach Green SK0268 Under Whittle SK1064 Ladderedge SJ9754 Reapsmoor SK0861 Upper Hatton SJ8337 Lady Edge SK0562 Revidge SK0759 Upper Moreton SK0322 Leasowes Farm SJ8611 Rickerscote SJ9320 Uttoxeter Quarry SK0935 Lichfield SK1111 Rifle Range SJ9917 Lightwood SJ9241 Roaches SK0063 Villa Farm SJ8028 Little Ferneyford SK0661 Roddige Farm SK1612 Little Hay SK1412 Rolleston Park SK2126 Walton-on-Trent SK2017 Little Stoke SJ9133 Round Knowl Farm SK0562 Wardlow Quarry SK0847 Longsdon Mill Pond SJ9555 Rowley Hall SJ9121 Warslow Brook SK0858 Lower Elkstone SK0758 Rudyard Lake SJ9459 Waterfall SK0851 Lower Hatton SJ8236 Rue Barn Farm SJ8027 Waterhouses SK0850 Lum Edge SK0659 Rugeley Power Station SK0517 Weaver Hills SK0946 Weeford SK1304 Madeley STW SJ7745 Scotch Hill SK1622 Weeping Cross SJ9421 Manifold Valley SK1055 Seven Springs SK0020 West End SJ8744 Marchington SK1330 Shebdon SJ7625 Weston SJ9727 Mayfield SK1545 Sherbrook Valley SJ9818 Weston Jones SJ7524 Meaford SJ8835 Shortwood Cotts SJ7836 Weston Jones Mill SJ7523 Mermaid Inn SK0360 Shraleybrook SJ7849 Westport Lake SJ8550 Middle Hills SK0363 Shugborough SJ9922 Wetley Moor SJ9248 Milford SJ9721 Silverdale Colliery SJ8146 Wetton SK0954 Milford Bridge SJ9621 Sittles Farm SK1712 Wettonmill SK0955 Milford Common SJ9720 South Doveridge SK1133 White House SJ9916 Milldale SK1354 South Pilsbury SK1262 Whitemoor Haye SK1813 Millmeece SJ8333 Springslade Lodge SJ9716 Whitmore SJ8141

235 Whitmore Bent Lane SJ8139 Wolseley Bridge SK0220 Wyrley Common SK0206 Whitmore Hall SJ8141 Wombourne SO8692 Whittington Common SO8582 Woodhead SJ9249 Yew Tree Farm SJ8043 Winkhill SK0651 Woodmancote SK0529 Yoxall SK1418 Wolf Edge SK0267 Woodmill SK1321 Yoxall Bridge SK1318 Wolfscote Dale SK1357 West Midlands Ackers SP0984 Dartmouth Park SP0091 Langley SO9988 Acocks Green SP1183 Daw End SK0300 Leasowes SO9784 Acorn Barn SP0898 Dorridge SP1675 Leighswood SK0602 Alcester SP0780 Druidʼs Heath SK0601 Lickey Hills SP0075 Aldridge SK0500 Dudley SO9490 Lightwoods Park SP0185 Aldridge Airport SK0301 Dudley Wood SO9486 Longbridge SP0176 Allesley SP2881 Dunstall Park SJ9000 Lutley Wedge SO9483 Amblecote SO8985 Ashmore Lake SJ9600 Earlswood SP1174 Marsh Lane NR SP2180 Aston SP0690 Edgbaston SP0584 Marston Green SP1785 Edgbaston Reservoir SP0486 Mary Stevens Park SO8983 Balsall Common SP2477 Elmdon SP1783 Maypole SP0780 Barr Beacon SP0598 Erdington SP1191 Meriden SP2281 Barston Minworth SP1592 Fens Pools SO9188 SP2078 Monkspath SP1476 Fibbersley SO9599 Bartley Reservoir SP0081 Mons Hill SO9392 Finchfield SO8897 Beechdale Primary Moseley SO0782 Five Ways SP0686 School SK0000 Four Oaks SP1099 Bentley Heath SP1676 Nailcote SP2677 Foxcote SO9383 Berkswell SP2479 National Motorcycle Frankley Reservoir SP0080 Bilston SO9496 Museum SP2082 Garretts Green SP1586 Bilston Cemetery SO9497 Nechells SP0989 Goldthorn Hill SO9096 Birmingham SP0686 Netherton SO9488 Goscote Valley SK0102 Birmingham Business Netherton Reservoir SO9387 Grapes Pool SO9497 Park SP1985 New Invention SJ9701 Great Barr SP0494 Black Patch SP0388 Northfield SP0279 Bloxwich SJ9902 Haden Hill Park SO9585 Norton SO8982 Blythe Valley SP1375 Halesowen SO9683 Blythe Valley CP SP1475 Hall Green SP1081 Oakham SO9689 Boldmere SP9914 Ham Dingle SO9182 Olton Mere SP1382 Bowmans Harbour SO9399 Hamstead SP0493 Old Swinford SO9083 Bournville SP0481 Hampton Coppice SP1682 Bradnockʼs Marsh SP2179 Hampton-in-Arden SP2080 Packhorse Bridge NR SP2180 Brownhills SK0405 Handsworth Park SP0590 Park Lime Pits SP0299 Brueton Park NR SP1678 Harborne SP0284 Penn SO8996 Burbury SP0983 Harborne NR SP0385 Perry Barr SP0692 Burys Hill SO8981 Hawne Park SO9585 Portway SO9788 Hay Head Wood SP0498 Primrose Bridge SO9487 Cannon Hill Park SP0683 Hay Mills SP1185 Priory Fields SP0979 Castle Bromwich SP1489 Hay Tor SJ9602 Pype Hayes SP1392 Castle Vale SP1491 High Heath SK0302 Chadwick End SP2173 Highters Heath SP0979 Quinton SO9884 Chelmsley Wood SP1886 Hill Hook SK1000 Cheswick Green SP1275 Hobbs Hole SK0701 Reedswood Park SO9999 Clayhanger SK0404 Hobs Moat SP1482 Rocket Pool SO9694 Coombeswood SO9785 Hockley Heath SP1572 Rood End SP0088 Coseley SO9393 Rotton Park SP0487 Cotteridge Park SP0479 Ketley Quarry SO8988 Rowley Regis SO9688 Coundon Wedge SP3081 Kingʼs Norton SP0478 Ryders Mere SK0304 Coventry SP3378 Kingstanding SP0894 Cradley Heath SO9586 Kingswinford SO8988 Salter Street SP1274 Knowle SP1877 Saltwells LNR SO9387 Daisy Bank SP0396 Sandwell Valley SP0291 Darbyʼs Hill SO9689 Ladymoor Pool SO9495 Scribers Wood SP1080

236 Selly Oak SP0382 Tettenhall SJ8800 Warley Woods SP0087 Senneleys Park SP0182 The Dingles SP0981 Warrens Hall LNR SO9588 Sheepwash UP SO9791 Thimblemill Brook SP0088 Warstock SP0979 Shirley SP1279 Tilehouse Green SP1776 Wednesfield SJ9400 Slioch SP1276 Tipton Green SO9592 West Bromwich SP0091 Small Heath SP0985 Titford Pool SO9887 Westwood Heath SP2776 Smestow Valley LNR SO8899 Tividale SO9791 Whitley SP3476 Smethwick SP0287 Trittiford Mill SP0979 Whitehouse Common SP1397 Solihull SP1579 Trittiford Park SP0980 Wiggins Hill SP1693 Somers Gravel Pit SP2382 Turners Hill SO9688 Wightwick SO8698 South Yardley SP1284 Tyseley SP1184 Winson Green SP0488 Spring Hill SO8895 Wolverhampton SO9198 Steelpark Way SO9499 Victoria Park SP0287 Woden Road Lake SO9994 Stirchley SP0581 Victoria Square SP0686 Wordsley SO8887 Stivichall SP3376 Vigo SK0402 Worlds End SP1480 Stourbridge SO9084 Wolverhampton SO9198 Streetley SP0897 Wake Green SP0882 Wylde Green SP1293 Stubbers Green SK0301 Walsall Airport SK0301 Sutton Park SP0996 Walsall Arboretum SP0198 Yardley Wood SP1079 Walsall Wood SK0403 Yew Tree SP0395 Temple Balsall SP2075 Walsgrave SP3881 Key to Contributors The following observers and organisations have kindly provided information for the Classified Notes. Our sincere apologies if we have omitted anyone. It would greatly help compilation if observers could give their full set of initials with their records, as this helps to identify them more uniquely and so cuts down the risk of confusion between similar names or sets of initials.

AE Abbott ID Barthorpe M Bourne DC Ackland P Bateman K Bower D Adams K Bates JJ Bowley P Adams RC Baverstock R Boyce MJ Adkins SC Baverstock M Brace J Allen C Baxter D Bradford JKL Allen N Bayliss Brandon Marsh Cons.Group R Allen MD Baynes K Brannan PM Andrews D Beal G Brereton SE Andrews S Bean C Brett P Appleby M Bebbington T Brindley A Archer S Bell RC Broadbent M Archer A Bellows D Bromley MA Arnold JT Belsey RM Brown S Arnold NW Beswick A Brydges PJ Arrowsmith S Bethel WJ Brydges C Arthurton PF Betts BTO Bird Track N Ashman C Bignell FC Buckel R Billingsley JE Burgess T Bagley J Bird JF Burgoine M Bailey J Birk DW Burns J Baker C Bishop I Burrell T Baldwin R Blackmore AK Burton K Ball G Blockley P Burton W Banbury S Bloomfield Banbury Ornithological Society E Blunt B Calder DM Banks S Bodnar CD Careless J Barker R Bond R Carleton NP Barlow M Bonham A Carr P Barratt D Booth N Carter

237 T Cartwright I Duncon RE Harbird R Castle D Dunford R Harding SL Cawthray W Dutton S Hares M Chadwick P Dykta PA Harper C Chamberlain J Harris D Chambers D Eaton GR Harrison J Chapman H Edwards JV Harrison K Charity S Edwards MH Harrison C Charlton WJ Egmont P Harrison D Charlton V Emery G Harrop JA Chidwick DW Emley P Harvey ES Clare SM Emley R Havard FC Clark G Evans SL Haycox L Clark RJ Evans MP Haydon GE Clarke T Eveleigh SM Haynes R Clay T Eyre M Haywood P Clayton B Heaton SJ Falk GA Clements Y Heward C Falshaw KM Clements B Hewetson A Farrar D Clifton R Hewitt T Farrington A Cobley TC Hextell J Fazakarley B Cochrane RC Higgs J Fenton C Collinson C Hill H Fox AM Cook CE Hill R Frankland T Cook DI Hill HY Franklin J Cooper W Hillier RP Fussell R Cooper TM Hinett SP Coppard S Gale D Hoare L Copplestone ND Galloway PE Hodges K Corbett C Gammond J Hodson R Corbett CP Ganderton M Holley D Cox M Gardiner A Holliday B Craddock AFJ Gardner A Holmes JE Cragg P Garner P Holmes JH Craik A Gaunt K Horseman I Crentis B Gethyn C Horsley ML Cresswell D Gifford S Hough M Creswell A Glaisher S Howdle I Crutchley M Godfrey C Hughes P Curry D Goodwin E Hulme PA Curry A Grace R Hunt G Greaves R Husbands C Davies H Green D Hutton RJ Davies L Green PD Hyde J Davis MR Green LJ Davis R Green MJ Inskip M Davis H Greenway JA Irving R Dawkins AJ Gregory J Dawson FC Gribble AG Jackson R Dawson N Grice D Jackson JJ Day L Griffin WT Jackson AR Dean TE Griffin AF Jacobs W Dedicott J Griffiths M James A Dent C Grove P Jenkins GRJ Dent D Gruar RJ Jennett A Dickie T Guest DA Jennings S Dix PD Jeynes P Dobson P Hackett A Johnson SG Dodd A Hall C Johnson M Doughty AG Hall B Jones P Douthwaite C Hall G Jones LB Dow D Hall J Jones Draycote Log T Hansard P Jones

238 S Jones G May R Perry T Jones RC Mays M Perryman P Jordan R McCraight S Petrek JFC Judge F McMahon A Phillips A Jukes B Meatyard T Phillips R Jukes A Mellor V Phillips P Keeling G Menzies-Kitchin M Pittaway G Kenyon G Metcalf J Pizzey D King S Micklewhite E Platt H King HJ Miller ND Pomiankowski RJ King I Millership CR Pool BL Kington M Millership WE Pool C Kirk R Minors CH Potter D Klemperer J Molby PF Potter J Knights I Moore R Powell T Knowles A Morris B Power A Kydd T Morris RW Power J Mossman D Pratt GD Laight JNT Mott R Pratt C Lane JB Murray A Preece CJ Lane L Murray T Preece T Laverick H Price SD Lawley J Neal J Price A Lawlor LJ Newey L Price JA Lawrence PAJ Newman P Price P Leach C Newton TR Price A Leak J Newton A Pritchard CB Lee GK Nicholls BG Prudden D Leech D Nimmo RA Prudden M Leefe S Noble G Pryce J Lees T Norledge L Lees Nuneaton and District J Raby J Lennon Birdwatchersʼ Club MP Radford MJ Lewis L Nuttall A Ramsell R Lewis S Nuttall RB Ratcliffe MJS Liley P Reay M Lindsey J OʼDell M Reed CJ Lipiec J Oakes DG Renn D Long N Oakes J Renowden K Long BA Oakley AN Reynolds K Longshaw J Oates S Reynolds S Loughton S Oates F Rhodes WJ Low S OʼDonnell P Rhodes G Lowe P Ogan SA Richards K Lowe I Oliver M Richardson T Lowe A OʼNeill B Rickett R Orton JHW Ridley A Mabbett RA Orton VH Riley MR Macfadyen E Osbaldeston E Roberts H Maclagan S Oxley S Roberts J MacMillan C Robinson J Mallinson J Pacy N Robinson S Mansell MW Painting S Robotham GJ Mant S Parish R Rock T Marlow L Parkes GP Rowling P Marriott G Pascoe RSPB Midland Office D Martin K Patrick JM Rushforth G Martin A Pattison S Russell R Maskew S Payne WJ Russell C Mason GH Peplow R Russon G Matthews WF Peplow S Ryan J Matthews G Pepper G Maxwell T Perrins D Saberton

239 I Sadler R Sutton S Wendle T Sale A Swift G Went C Salt R Swift M West MJ Sanderson S West M Sanford B Tailer B Westwood DJ Scanlan D Talbot D Westwood DA Scattergood J Taylor RB Wetherill FM Scott RJ Taylor R Wheatcroft RE Scott J Tess K Wheatley S Seal H Te Velde D White C Seebode A Thomas O White R Selby P Thomas P White B Sherwin R Thomas PF Whitehead M Shooter C Thomson IC Whitehouse S Shore J Tibbetts SM Whitehouse M Short Tittesworth Report CJ Wild A Simons B Todd G Wild C Simpson IR Tomlinson D Wilkinson J Sirrett N Tong AG Williams JH Sirrett R Toon B Williams D Skidmore FE Towers D Williams MR Skinner M Towers DM Williams M Skirrow T Trueman GA Williams S Slack B Tuck M Williams GC Slawson Z Turbott R Williams BW Smith J Turner RD Williams K Smith ME Turner TR Williams M Smith P Turner CS Williamson MC Smith SJ Turner M Willmott NJ Smith R Tyler A Wilson RL Smith B Tymons AWH Wincott S Smith A Winder V Smith MA Ui Hawker M Wingrove M Snookes N Unwin J Winsper G Soden J Wisden P Sofley S Valentine C Witton South Peak Raptor L von Ebling WMBC Hotline Study Group B Wood M Southall D Waite SC Wood R Southall MI Wakeman T Woodcock P Spinks RMW Waldron GT Woodin M Squires DRE Walker C Woods Staffs Ecological Record E Walker MWC Woodward L Stanley MR Walker O Wordsworth R Stanton DIM Wallace P Worthy MP Stanyer P Wallace K Worton A Stark W Waller D Wragg A Steele I Ward E Wright D Stenning P Ward G Wright MA Stephens PJ Ward www.birdguides.com A Stevens T Ward Wychavon Ringing Group P Stewart R Wardle FG Stokes K Warmington M Yapp K Stokes A Warr D Stone AD Warren T Stone Warwickshire Museum BR Stretch S Watchorn DA Strong T Web CR Stubbs SC Webb G Summers T Webb MJ Summerson-Liley S Webster L Sutherland I Wells M Sutton T Wells

240 Index to Species Bittern, Eurasian 53 Gannet, Northern 52 Kestrel, Common 63 Blackbird 156 Garganey 30 Kingfisher, Common 125 Blackcap 165 Godwit, Bar-tailed 90 Kite, Red 57 Brambling 193 Godwit, Black-tailed 89 Kittiwake 108 Bullfinch 203 Goldcrest 174 Knot, Red 81 Bunting, Corn 208 Goldeneye, Common 39 Bunting, Indigo 210 Goldfinch 196 Lapwing, Northern 78 Bunting, Reed 206 Goosander 41 Lark, Shore 131 Bunting, Snow 205 Goose, Bar-headed 211 Lark, Sky 130 Buzzard, Common 61 Goose, Barnacle 20 Lark, Wood 129 Goose, Bean 16 Linnet 199 Canary, Yellow-fronted 214 Goose, Brent 21 Lovebird sp. 213 Chaffinch 191 Goose, Domestic 211 Chiffchaff, Common 170 Goose, Egyptian 21 Macaw sp. 213 Chiffchaff, Scandinavian 172 Goose, Greater Canada 18 Macaw, Military 213 Chiffchaff, Siberian 172 Goose, Greylag 17 Magpie 184 Chough, Red-billed 210 Goose, Lesser Canada 209 Mallard 27 Chukar 212 Goose, Pink-footed 16 Martin, House 134 Cockatiel 213 Goose, Rossʼs 209 Martin, Sand 131 Coot, Common 69 Goose, Snow 209 Merganser, Hooded 210 Cormorant, Great 52 Goose, White-fronted 17 Merganser, Red-breasted 41 Crake, Spotted 68 Goshawk, Northern 60 Merlin 64 Crane, Common 71 Grebe, Black-necked 50 Moorhen 68 Crossbill, Common 203 Grebe, Great Crested 48 Crow, Carrion 186 Grebe, Little 47 Nightingale, Common 147 Cuckoo, Common 119 Grebe, Red-necked 50 Nightjar, European 124 Curlew, Eurasian 91 Grebe, Slavonian 50 Nuthatch, Eurasian 182 Curlew, Stone 73 Greenfinch 194 Greenshank, Common 94 Oriole, Black-hooded 214 Dipper 145 Grouse, Red 44 Osprey 62 Diver, Great Northern 47 Guineafowl, Helmeted 213 Ouzel, Ring 155 Diver, Red-throated 47 Gull, Black-headed 109 Owl, Barn 120 Dotterel 76 Gull, Caspian 106 Owl, Eurasian Eagle 214 Dove, Collared 118 Gull, Common 102 Owl, Little 121 Dove, Stock 116 Gull, Franklin's 101 Owl, Long-eared 122 Dove, Turtle 118 Gull, Glaucous 107 Owl, Short-eared 123 Dowitcher, Long-billed 88 Gull, Great Black-backed 107 Owl, Tawny 122 Duck, Blue-billed 212 Gull, Herring 104 Oystercatcher 71 Duck, Ferruginous 34 Gull, Iceland 106 Duck, Fulvous Whistling 210 Gull, Lesser Black-backed 103 Parakeet, Alexandrine 213 Duck, Long-tailed 38 Gull, Little 108 Parakeet, Rose-ringed 119 Duck, Mandarin 22 Gull, Mediterranean 99 Partridge, Grey 45 Duck, Muscovy 211 Gull, Ring-billed 102 Partridge, Red-legged 44 Duck, Ring-necked 34 Gull, Sabine's 111 Peafowl, Indian 213 Duck, Ruddy 43 Gull, Yellow-legged 105 Phalarope, Red-necked 98 Duck, Tufted 34 Pheasant, Common 46 Duck, Wood 212 Harrier, Hen 59 Pheasant, Golden 210 Dunlin 83 Harrier, Marsh 58 Pheasant, Green 212 Dunnock 146 Harrier, Montagu's 60 Pheasant, Reevesʼ 213 Hawfinch 204 Pigeon, Feral 115 Egret, Great White 55 Hawk, Harrisʼs 213 Pigeon, Wood 116 Egret, Little 54 Heron, Grey 56 Pintail, Northern 29 Hobby 65 Pintail, White-cheeked Falcon, Peregrine 66 Honey-buzzard 57 (Bahama) 212 Fieldfare 157 Hoopoe 126 Pipit, Meadow 137 Firecrest 175 Pipit, Rock 138 Flycatcher, Pied 177 Ibis, Glossy 57 Pipit, Scandinavian Rock 139 Flycatcher, Spotted 175 Pipit, Tree 136 Jackdaw, Western 185 Pipit, Water 139 Gadwall 25 Jay, Eurasian 184 Plover, European Golden 76

241 Plover, Grey 78 Skua, Great 99 Tit, Marsh 179 Plover, Little Ringed 73 Skua, Pomarine 98 Tit, Willow 180 Plover, Ringed 75 Smew 40 Treecreeper, Eurasian 183 Pochard, Common 33 Snipe, Common 86 Turaco, Violet 214 Pochard, Red-crested 32 Snipe, Jack 85 Turnstone 98 Sparrow, House 189 Twite 200 Quail, Common 45 Sparrow, Tree 190 Sparrowhawk, Eurasian 60 Wagtail, Blue-headed 141 Rail, Water 67 Spoonbill, Eurasian 57 Wagtail, "Channel" 141 Raven, Common 187 Starling, Common 188 Wagtail, Grey 142 Redpoll, Common 202 Stilt, Black-winged 73 Wagtail, Pied 143 Redpoll, Lesser 200 Stint, Little 82 Wagtail, White 144 Redshank, Common 92 Stint, Temminck's 83 Wagtail, Yellow 139 Redshank, Spotted 92 Stonechat 150 Warbler, Cetti's 162 Redstart, Black 147 Storm-petrel, Leach's 51 Warbler, Dartford 169 Redstart, Common 148 Swallow, Barn 132 Warbler, Garden 167 Redwing 159 Swallow, Red-rumped 134 Warbler, Grasshopper 162 Robin 146 Swan, Bewick's 15 Warbler, Reed 164 Rook 186 Swan, Black 210 Warbler, Sedge 163 Ruff 85 Swan, Mute 14 Warbler, Willow 173 Swan, Trumpeter 211 Warbler, Wood 170 Sanderling 81 Swan, Whooper 15 Warbler, Yellow-browed 170 Sandpiper, Common 96 Swift, Common 124 Waxwing 145 Sandpiper, Curlew 83 Wheatear, Greenland 154 Sandpiper, Green 95 Teal, Eurasian 26 Wheatear, Northern 152 Sandpiper, Pectoral 83 Teal, Hottentot 212 Whimbrel 90 Sandpiper, Wood 96 Teal, Ringed 212 Whinchat 149 Scaup, Greater 36 Teal, Speckled (Chilean) 212 Whitethroat, Common 169 Scaup, Lesser 37 Tern, Arctic 113 Whitethroat, Lesser 168 Scoter, Common 38 Tern, Black 114 Wigeon, American 25 Shag 53 Tern, Common 112 Wigeon, Chiloe 212 Shearwater, Manx 51 Tern, Gull-billed 111 Wigeon, Eurasian 24 Shelduck, Tern, Little 114 Woodcock 88 Cape/South African 211 Tern, Roseate 111 Woodpecker, Great Spotted 128 Shelduck, Common 21 Tern, Sandwich 111 Woodpecker, Green 127 Shelduck, Radjah 211 Thrush, Mistle 161 Woodpecker, Shelduck, Ruddy 209 Thrush, Song 158 Lesser Spotted 128 Shoveler 31 Tit, Bearded 178 Wren 145 Shrike, Great Grey 183 Tit, Blue 181 Wryneck 126 Shrike, Red-backed 183 Tit, Coal 181 Siskin 197 Tit, Great 182 Yellowhammer 205 Skua, Arctic 99 Tit, Long-tailed 178 Yuhina, White-collared 214

242 Notes

243 Notes

244